The Hampshire Family Historian | Vol.48 No.4 | March 2022

Local Group Programmes

Gosport Meetings are normally held on the second Wednesday of each month in the Scout Hut, Clayhall Road, Alverstoke, Gosport, Hants, PO12 2BY from 7.30-9.30.

Contact: Janet Heath Tel: 02392 522 827 Email: gosport@hgs-online.org.uk

Reports by Elayne Kenway (November) The proposed speaker was unable to attend and will be rescheduled for another date. Instead of the speaker we had a discussion, about the way ahead for our group, as our chairperson will be standing down next year. Marilyn has managed the group and role for over 10 years with her trusted Secretary Jan. A number of members came forward so it is hopeful that the group will be continuing into the future. (December) Christmas Meeting This meeting was a social event with some drinks and nibbles. We all contributed memories of past Christmases. These memories of families’ traditions contribute to our own Family History and should not be forgotten. Christmas Games - Card games, Backgammon Scrabble, Monopoly, Colditz, Connect 4, Mime games, The family Coach, Duckie Duckie, Submarines, What’s my line (Barrister, Fireman, TEACHER, Sweet Maker, Accountant, Bus Driver, Chef, Dentist, Baker, Weatherman, Milkman, Tv Presenter, Fisherman, Bricklayer, Painter). Just a minute (talking on a given subject for one minute without repetition, hesitation). Card games – On the Busses, Haymarket, Gin Rummy, Cheat. Church Services – Often dictated the day. These could be dreary cold events or more musical times. Carol services and nativity services. Also playing the organ, piano or other instruments for the services. Christmas trees – Some were dug up each year. Memories of trees being set alight because of the real candles on them. Trees arrived with parents in the days before Christmas or even came down the chimney! Children loved to play Father Christmas and dish out the presents from under the tree. Theatre and Pantomime – Local productions that go wrong, larger theatres that have sparkle and big names. Sometimes an annual event. Visitors – Houses were often full of relatives and visitors. Front room used at this time and best china for tea. Christmas Food – Chicken was usual. Turkey became traditional in the 60s. Christmas cake mix and pudding mix stirring for wishes. Coins and charms in the pudding. Boxing Day – A day for playing with toys, sport and racing on the tv as well as family jigsaw puzzles.

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