THE Frome Society for Local Study has produced its 23rd issue of the Yearbook, full of fascinating information on Frome and its history.
One article, on the excavations at an ancient site in Spring Gardens suggest the possibility of Frome’s history dating back to the fifth century, with the discovery of a Saxon throwing axe known as a francisca – a find of national importance.
This edition also covers the Frome connections of the artist Richard Dupont, a follower of Sir Alfred Munnings and the world-famous ceramicist and associate of Lucie Rie, Hans Coper, as well as more information on the Singer family.
There are articles on Catholic education at Conigar House, an interesting glance through a scrapbook of local postcards and photos from over 100 years ago, the life of John Sinkins of Wallbridge House and builder of Frome Literary and Scientific Institution, now Frome Museum, and a biography of William Brett Harvey, pharmacist, nonconformist and stalwart of the temperance movement.
Betty Trask, a now forgotten novelist with connections to North Hill House who was much appreciated in her day, is revived in a piece on her life and work. There is some original research on the history of Frome’s vinegar brewery in Park Hill Drive, now home to Edventure and various community workshops and an article on our famous Cockey street lamps.
The history of Beckington Abbey is also considered in an article by Michael McGarvie. The yearbook ends with an interesting piece of research into a family photo taken of a Kelley family wedding taken in 1899. There are many shorter articles including regular pieces on Frome buildings and people.
The yearbook has been expertly edited for the tenth year by Alastair MacLeay, who is now retiring from the position and whose drive and expertise will be greatly missed. It has again been expertly designed by Cliff and Janet Howard.
Priced at £10, Yearbook 23 is available from Winstone’s Hunting Raven bookshop, Frome Museum or directly from The Frome Society website www.fsls.org. uk telephone 01373 836 595.
Mick Davis & David Lassman