Charles Farndale

17 January 1838 to 18 March 1914

Charles took over the farming of Kilton Hall Farm where he farmed 577 acres

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The Kilton Farmer

Charles Farndale took over the tenancy of the farm at Kilton from Martin Farndale who was his uncle, since Martin had no children of his own. Martin was a farmer at Kilton of 207 acres by 1851, with 98 employees. By then Charles his nephew was also living at Kilton. By 1871, Martin was farming 600 acres at Kilton at the age of 73, with 16 employees. By 1881 Martin had retired and Charles was farming 577 acres with 9 employees. Martin died in 1885 with an estate of £1,625, which would convert to about £107,000 in 2020, and whilst I have not found a copy of Martin’s will, Charles was an executor.

Charles’ grandfather, William Farndale had pulled down the old Kilton Lodge which was connected with the castle, to build a new house at Kilton. William Farndale had been a farmer and merchant of wood, rods, coals, and salting bacon. His great grandfather was old Johnny Farndale, known as Old Farndale of Kilton. His father, John Farndale wrote extensively about Kilton. He had described the Farndale lands at Kilton passing from generation to generation for two hundred years. Springing from this roof may be said to be forty Farndales of this last generation.

By the time Charles farmed at Kilton, his family had been the dominant farmers there for generations.

Charles Farndale was the son of John & Martha Farndale, by then a farmer of Skelton Barns.

Charles was born on 17 January 1838 into the Kilton 1 Line and baptised on 27 February 1838 at Skelton.

The Census of 1841 for Long Newton, Stockton included Charles Farndale, aged 3, the son of John Farndale.

He seems to have ben destined from an early age to return to the Farndale agricultural lands at Kilton, to support his childless uncle, Martin Farndale. By the Census for 1851 for Kilton Charles Farndale was aged 13, the nephew to Martin Farndale, born in Skelton, but now working in Kilton. The Census for 1861 for Kilton showed Charles Farndale, aged 22; unmarried; the nephew to Kilton working at Kilton Hall Farm.

On 2 April 1870 then aged 32, he was appointed as an overseer of the poor. At the magistrates’ meeting on Tuesday the overseers of the various townships attended with lists from the vestry meetings. The following were appointed for the ensuing year:- … Kilton, John Garbutt and Charles Farndale …

By the Census for 1871 for Kilton Charles Farndale was head of the household, aged 31; a farmer, living with Elizabeth Farndale (said to be his cousin; aged 58; a widow born in Whitby in about 1813, but it is not obvious who this was), with two farm workers.

On 16 April 1872, Charles Farndale married Ann Dale of Danby, at the Wesleyan chapel in Danby. On the 16th inst, at the Wesleyan chapel, Danby End, by the Rev D Williams, Mr C Farndale, of Kilton, to Miss Dale, eldest daughter of Mr John Dale, Stormy Hall, Danby.

Charles and Ann Farndale had a family of eight. John Martin Farndale was born in 1873, but died aged 3. William Farndale was born at Kilton on 25 April 1875 and his family were the Richmond Line. George Farndale was born in Kilton on 24 August 1876 and succeeded his father to be the last of the Kilton Farndales. Mary Elizabeth Farndale was born in Kilton in 1877. Grace Farndale was born in Kilton on 14 April 1880. Albert Farndale was born in Kilton in 1881, an architect who tragically shot himself in 1918. Ernest Farndale was born in 1883 at Kilton, but died aged only 2. Sophia Farndale was born in Kilton on 23 August 1884.

On 31 March 1874, at Guisborough Police Court this morning, the Bench confirmed the appointment of the following gentlemen as overseers of the poor for the respective parishes during the ensuing year, viz, … Kilton: Charles Farndale and John Garbutt …

The Whitby Gazette, on 22 July 1876, reported success of Charles with his uncle Martin in a local horse show competition when they came second in the Chapman Filly Foals class.

By 1878, Charles was acting more in partnership with his uncle Martin Farndale.

On 11 January 1878 there was a continuance of the District Ploughing and hedge-cutting competition at the Farndale Farm … These annual matches were held yesterday on the farm of Messrs M and C Farndale, Kilton Hall. The day was fine, and the spectators unusually numerous. The hedge-cutting was about on average with former years, there being six entries for the open class, but none for the district. The following were the prize winners … The ploughing was beyond all precedent, and the prizes had not been awarded at the time our parcel was sent.

There was more equine success in July 1878 at the Loftus Agricultural Show when Martin and Charles were second and highly commended in the two year Cleveland fillies class.

Charles Farndale continued a long tradition of involvement with the local Wesleyan Church. On Saturday 13 Sep 1879 there had been a Recognition Meeting at Brotton. A recognition service to welcome the newly appointed ministers was held in the Wesleyan Chapel, Brotton, on Friday. At the conclusion of the service, a tea was served in the schoolroom. A public meeting was held in the evening, when addresses were delivered by the Revs. W Russell and W Douglas, circuit ministers, and the Rev. William Lillington, Bible Christian. Messrs Farndale occupied the chair. Collections were taken in aid of the circuit funds.

On 17 July 1880 it was reported that Martin and Charles came second at the Loftus Agricultural Show, when they showed in the class of a bull, any age, belonging to a tenant farmer in the district.

There was an incident of damage to crops in 1881. There was a summary conviction of John Speck, Charles Speck and George Arnold all of Brotton for maliciously damaging beans growing in a field occupied by Martin and Charles Farndale Offence committed at the township of Kilton on 21 August 1881 Case heard at Loftus on 26 August 1881. There was another report of Damaging beans and oats. Three Brotton youths, named John and Charles Spark and G Arnold were charged at Loftus Petty Sessions on Friday by Mr Farndale of Kilton with damaging beans and oats in his field on the 21st inst. The complaint stated that considerable damage had been done to his crops, and although he did not wish the lads to be severely punished, he wanted to put a stop to it. The damage was estimated at 1s each. Ordered to pay costs of 6s 2d each, and the damage, 1s each.

By this time the land was clearly being worked in partnership between Charles and his uncle, Martin Farndale who was by then a much older man and started to be listed as retired in the census.

In the census of 1881, Martin Farndale, still the head of the household was a widower, aged 82, listed as retired farmer at Kilton Hall Farm and Charles Farndale, married, aged 42, was a farmer of 577 acres, with 9 employees. Now living together were Charles’ family, Ann Farndale, wife of Charles, aged 32; William Farndale, son of Charles, aged 5; George Farndale, son of Charles aged 4; Mary Farndale, daughter of Charles, aged 3; Grace Farndale, daughter of Charles, aged 2. Also living with them were three farm servants, a domestic servant and nurse.

Kilton Hall Farm was a busy place.

On 6 August 1882 Thomas Tippett servant, James Mitchell driver, Robert Newbiggin driver and George Tilley leader, all of Brotton, maliciously damaged beans growing in a field occupied by Charles Farndale. The case was heard at Loftus on 14 August 1882 and they were summarily convicted.

On 27 March 1883 The Guisborough Magistrates this (Tuesday) morning sanctioned the appointment of the following gentlemen as overseers for the Guisborough Union … Kilton, G Garbutt and Charles Farndale …

There was a summary conviction of Thomas Butterworth, Alfred Partridge and Richard Bacon all of Carlin How for maliciously damaging beans growing in a field occupied by Charles Farndale. The offence was committed in Kilton on 16 September 1883 and the case was heard at Loftus on 28 September 1883.

On Sunday 14 October 1883 Harvest thanksgiving services were conducted in Brotton chapel, which was nicely decorated for the occasion, by the Revs E J Saxton and J Rawlings. On Monday a tea meeting took place, the speakers being the Rev J Rawlings, and Messrs R Rowland and J Henwood. Mr Charles Farndale (Kilton) presided.

On 1 June 1884 the anniversary of the Wesleyan Sabbath school (at Skinningrove) was held on Whit-Sunday. Mr George Taylor of Skelton preached a powerful sermon in the morning, and conducted the children’s service in the afternoon and evening. Suitable hymns were sung by the children and the choir at each service. The scholars recited their pieces, dialogues, recitations etc, in a very pleasing manner. The chapel was on the two latter occasions crowded to excess. Mr A Moore conducted the singing, and Miss Harrison officiated at the harmonium. The scholars will have their annual treat at Kilton, in a field kindly leant by Mr C Farndale.

At the Skelton Agricultural Show, reported on 12 July 1884, Martin and Charles again took second place in the yearly coaching gelding or filly class.

During the agricultural depression of the mid 1880s, there was some relaxation of rents. The local landowner, J T Wharton Esq, allowed a 50% land rental for the half year because of the Agricultural depression, which received the thanks of the fraternity of tenant farmers. It was reported on 13 January 1885 that there was a presentation to J T Wharton Esq of Skelton Castle. On Monday afternoon, the half yearly rent audit of the Skelton Estate was held at the Wharton Arms Hotel. Mr E B Hamilton (steward) presiding, and Mr Robert Stephenson, Vice Chairman. After a splendid dinner, provided and served up by Mr and Mrs Morgan in first class style, the Chairman submitted “the Queen and Royal Family”, which was loyally honoured. The Chairman then proposed the health of Squire Wharton who returned thanks in an appropriate manner. Mr C Farndale referred to an event which had taken place among them, as the farmers had received 50% reduction upon the rent of their arable land for the past half year. This was stated to have been brought about by the Squire's compensation for the depreciation of prices as compared to any previous years since he had become possessed of the property. (Applause). Mr Thomas Petch, on behalf of the tenants, then presented a beautifully illuminated address in a gold frame, which read as follows – “To J T Wharton Esq, Skelton Castle. We the undersigned tenants of your Skelton estate most respectfully beg your acceptance of this address as a token of our respect and appreciation of the manner in which you have met us at the present, as also on a former occasion, under the great agricultural depression, by returning to us 50% of the rent of the arable land as the half yearly rent audit held January 12th, 1885 and we earnestly hope you will long be spared in health and strength amongst us. Martin Farndale, Kilton Hall and Charles Farndale, Kilton Hall; Matthew Young, Claphow, William. Judson, Stank House, John Smith, Moorsholm Grange, William. Raw, Red Hall, Henry Robinson, Ralph Linus, Cambank, Thomas Petch, Barns Farm, Henry, Atkinson, West Throttle., Robert Stephenson, Trout Hall...

Contemporaneous with the global Long Depression, Britain's agricultural depression was caused by the dramatic fall in grain prices that followed the opening up of the American prairies to cultivation in the 1870s and the advent of cheap transportation with the rise of steamships. British agriculture did not recover from this depression until after the Second World War. In 1882 Charles George Milnes Gaskell wrote that the vast increase in the carrying power of ships, the facilities of intercourse with foreign countries, (and) the further cheapening of cereals and meat meant that economically and politically the old landed class were no longer lords of the earth. The depression also accelerated Britain's rural depopulation. The 1881 census showed a decline of 92,250 agricultural labourers since 1871, with an increase of 53,496 urban labourers. Many of these had previously been farm workers who migrated to the cities to find employment. Between 1871 and 1901 the population of England and Wales increased by 43% but the proportion of male agricultural labourers decreased by over one third. According to Sir James Caird in his evidence to the Royal Commission on the Depression in Trade and Industry in 1886, the annual income of landlords, tenants and labourers had fallen by £43M since 1876. No other country witnessed such a social transformation and British policy contrasted with those adopted on the Continent. Every wheat-growing country imposed tariffs in the wake of the explosion of American prairie wheat except Britain and Belgium. Subsequently, Britain became the most industrialised major country with the smallest proportion of its resources devoted to agriculture.

Charles’ uncle, Martin Farndale, died of chronic bronchitis and senile debility, aged 86, on 22 June 1885. Charles Farndale, his nephew was present at the death at Kilton. Martin Farndale was buried in Brotton on 25 June 1885. James Bell, the Rector performed the ceremony.

Martin Farndale left a personal Estate of £1,625 2s 6d. The will of Martin Farndale late of Kilton in Cleveland in the North Riding of the County of York was proved at York on 21 December 1885 by Charles Farndale of Kilton, the nephew and Thomas Hall of the Parish of Skutterskelfe near Stokesley in Cleveland Farmers the Executors. In 2020, this estate might equate to approximately: £107,558.41. In 1880, you could buy 59 horses or 167 cows or pay skilled tradesmen wages for 4,924 days with the value of the estate.

On 18 November 1885, at the Wesleyan Chapel two special sermons were preached on Sunday by the Rev E Mosscrop, of this circuit, and on Wednesday afternoon, a sermon was preached by the Rev T G Mosscrop, of Willington, Durham, to a very good congregation. A public tea was provided in the school room, of which a large number partook. In the evening, a public meeting was held, when the following gentlemen addressed the meeting – Revs T G Mosscrop, T Wood, E Mosscrop, and Mr Parkes. Mr C Farndale, of Kilton Hall, presided. The choir rendered a selection of anthems during the evening. After the usual vote of thanks to the chairman, speakers, and those ladies who had so kindly contributed trays, and all who had in any way helped to make the meetings to successful, a happy and profitable meeting was brought to a close by the pronouncing of the benediction. The total proceeds from the tea and collection amount to £13, which goes to Society Funds. The following ladies presided at the tables – Mesdames Rodham, Parkes, Newton, Frank, Laverick, Theaker, Grimes, and Misses Rodham, Cole, Ward and Harrison.

In passing, there was a novel written in 1885 which used the name Charles Farndale for a character. An extract from Erasing the Block by the Author of Cat and Mouse, Hogan’s Heir, and A Man of Wax read Edna Blake reached Mr Fortescue’s house in Montgomery Crescent, Kensington, barely in time to dress before the dinner bell rang. When Charles Farndale had hastily left Mrs Macartney’s shop, after his rage had prompted him to make the brutal revelation concerning Edna’s parentage, the sympathising Bridget insisted upon her young friend remaining to compose herself under the soothing influence of a strong cup of tea. Mrs Macartney confessed that she had been so dumbfounded that she was absolutely incapable of sending a Parthian shaft …

There was a summary conviction of Edward Hanson of Brotton, a miner, for trespassing in the daytime in search of conies on land belonging to John Thomas Wharton esquire and occupied by Charles Farndale. The offence was committed at the township of Kilton on 24 April 1886 and the case was heard at Loftus on 14 May 1886. There was a summary conviction of William Richardson of Carlin How, another miner, for trespassing in the daytime in search of game on a piece of land belonging to John Thomas Wharton esquire and occupied by Charles Farndale. The offence was committed at the township of Kilton on 23 September 1886 and the case was heard at Loftus on 8 October 1886. At the Loftus police court yesterday afternoon a miner named William Richardson was charged with trespassing in pursuit of game on land belonging to Mr. J T Wharton, and in the occupation of Mr Charles Farndale, on the 23rd ult. From the evidence it appeared that defendant and his dog had been watching Mr Farndale and his staff harvesting, and the dog on perceiving a hare started up, ‘went for it’, and whilst bringing it to its master Mr Farndale stopped it, and took away the hare, and reported the master, who was found guilty, and fined £1 8s 6d, including the costs.

Another Skinningrove picnic was reported on 3 July 1886. The Wesleyans of this place held their annual pic-nic on Saturday, at Kilton, in a field kindly lent for the occasion by Mr C Farndale. Various games were indulged in to a late hour, and everyone seemed thoroughly satisfied.

On 4 July 1886 the anniversary of the Wesleyan Sunday school was held on Sunday. In the morning a sermon was preached by Mr F Windsor of Eston and in the afternoon a service of song entitled “The River Singers” was given by the teachers, scholars and choir, Mr J W Mayhew ably presiding at the harmonium. Mr Winsor read the connective readings. The service was very well rendered. In the evening the children recited pieces and dialogues, the choir assisting them to sing the hymns. The pieces seemed to be recited with much more expression than in former years. The Chapel was crowded to its utmost capacity. The children paraded the streets on Monday afternoon, and at night a public meeting was held, presided over by Mr C Plews. The children were again to the fore with their pieces. The number of scholars at present is 179, an increase of 15 on last year. Average attendance, morning 102, afternoon, 129. The teachers numbered 27, being an increase of 2. On Wednesday the children held their annual picnic at Kilton, in a field kindly lent by Mr C Farndale. A public tea was provided about 100 partaking thereof. Mesdames Rigg, Waters, Bolton, and Misses Richardson, Rigg and Astley presided at the tables. The total receipts were £9 10s.

On 24 March 1887 it was reported that The following have been nominated for the seven vacant seats on the Skelton and Brotton … Kilton (1) Chas Farndale ... The only places contested are Skelton North and South Wards and on 29 March 1887 that the Overseers for the Guisborough Union included the following have been appointed: … Kilton: J Garbutt and C Farndale.

There was a significant sale of horses, stock and farm tools at Charles Farndale’s farm in April 1887. Perhaps this was due to the agricultural depression, or perhaps it was just part of the general management scheme. Darlington’s North Star advertised the following on 4 April 1887:

Kilton Hall, under a mile from Carlin How and Brotton Stations.

Mr William Temple is favoured with instructions from Mr Charles Farndale to sell by auction on Thursday, April 7th, the farming stock, implements etc viz:

FAT CATTLE - 12 prime Far Bullocks, 8 prime Fat Heifers, 2 prime Fat Cows.

HORSES - Useful Brown Draught Horse, Duke, 5 years old; Valuable Cleveland Mare, Trimmer, 9 years old; Useful Bay Horse, Ben, 10 years old; Useful Grey Draught Horse, Topper, 10 years old; Powerful Bay Draught Horse, Gilbert, 6 years old; Powerful Bay Draught Mare, Mettle, 7 years old; Powerful Brown Draught Horse, Delver, 10 years old; Promising Brown Draught Filly, 3 years old, unbroken, by Chiswick; Handsome Chestnut Pony, 10 years old, gentle to ride and drive; Strong black karting filly, rising 3 years old, by His Lordship; Strong Yearling Colt by Topsman.

SHEEP - 38 Half bred Hoggs.

A quantity of IMPLEMENTS. Sale to begin at one o’clock.

Liverton, Loftus in Cleveland, March 21st 1887.

There was a report on 7 September 1887 that last night a public meeting for the reception of the Rev D Rycroft, newly appointed minister to the Loftus and Staithes Circuit, was held in the Newton Memorial Chapel, Loftus. The meeting, which was well attended, was presided over by Mr J M Wright, and congratulatory addresses were delivered by the Rev J J Sutton and Messrs Charles Farndale, T C Hutchinson, Thomas Rigg, and J Miller. A short address was also given by the Rev N Rycroft.

A Wesleyan Bazaar at Loftus in Cleveland was reported on 24 February 1888. On Wednesday a well arranged bazaar in aid of the funds of the Newton Memorial Chapel was opened in the Town Hall, Loftus, by Mrs C Farndale, Kilton lodge, in the absence, through illness, of Mrs. J Searth, Stanghow Hall, stalls were superintended by Mesdames R Race, G Edis, J J Sutton, W Mortimer, J M Wright, J G Tigg, J Wilkinson; Misses Garton, Glover, Hicks, and Kerr; and Masters Harry Sayer and JG Rigg. An art gallery, model fish pond, also music by the choir and other attractions were provided. The receipts were between £40 and £50.

Another piece on 24 August 1888 reported: Hinderwell. Wesleyan Methodist Society. On Monday, the special sale of work was held in the new school room, which was beautifully arrayed in its summer attire of light drapery, interspersed with a profusion of choice flowers and ferns, thus giving the stools, archs and pillars a most attractive appearance. The erections were able ably carried out under the superintendence of Mr H Marley, assisted by Messrs J and J W Harker, and Jefferson; Misses Burrell, Blackhirst and Marley completed the decorations. At 1:30 the Rev D Rycroft commenced the service by giving out the well known hymn, “Praise ye the Lord”. The Rev Arthur Kemmings (Bradford) then engaged in prayer after which he delivered a most powerful and impressive speech to the large company who filled the room. Mrs Farndale, Kilton lodge was called upon to perform the opening ceremony, which she did in a truly Christian and graceful manner, speaking kindly words of encouragement and success to all concerned. Votes of thanks were tendered to Mrs Farndale and Rev A Kemmings for their kindness, Mr Green seconded the same and all felt that the gracious influence and kindly greetings which prevailed quite recompensed for the toil and strain of the undertaking, making the gathering thoroughly enjoyable. The sale began in earnest and continued with vigour throughout the day. The stalls were heavily laden with a splendid display of home and foreign fancy goods, together with the plain and fancy articles made and accumulated at the Ladies Sewing Meeting. The several positions of honour were well sustained by Mesdames Captain Thompson, Jefferson senior, Grey, Harker, Plumber, Marley, J and M Hodgson, Misses Stainthorpe, Burrell and S E and N Marley. Miss Annie Marley and Mr M Hodgson guarded the interests of the bran tub etc. In the evening the Staithes Wesleyan choir, under the leadership of Mr R Frank rendered the service of song “Given in Charge”, to an audience which filled the chapel, and manifested their appreciation by their rapt attention. The Rev A Kemmings in a masterly style gave the connective readings and Miss Kirby (Boulby) gracefully presided at the harmonium. Votes of thanks were given to the Staithes friends which the Rev E Mosscrop was called upon to second. In doing so, he was accorded continued applause, and the pleasure of seeing him once again at such gatherings was thus demonstrated. The Doxology was sung, the Benediction pronounced, and the company returned to the bazaar and supper which was kept open until a late hour. When the counting up took place it was with most grateful feelings that the proceeds, including sales, collection, subscriptions and refreshments, were found to amount to £19 10s 6½ d. This will be devoted to the School Building Fund. It is hoped that the anticipated visit and lecture of Dr Bruce (Newcastle) and the annual Christmas Tree will free the premises from debt.

Another report on 27 March 1889 announced the reappointment of overseers. Yesterday the following were appointed overseers for the ensuing year … Kilton, Chas Farndale and George Lancaster …

There was another summary conviction of William Cunnington of Lingdale miner for trespassing in the day-time in search of game on land belonging to John Thomas Wharton esquire and occupied by Charles Farndale. The offence was committed on 7 July 1889 and the case was heard at Loftus on 12 July 1889. Loftus police court. Yesterday, … William Cunningham was charged by inspector Allen with trespassing at Kilton in pursuit of game on the 7th inst, on land in the occupation of Charles Farndale. The inspector, in company with Police constable Bookless, saw the defendant set a trap in a cornfield and snare a hare. The defendant, who did not put in an appearance, was fined 5s and 10s costs. POLICE COURT. On Friday, 12th inst, in the Town Hall, before R Yeoman (chairman), and J W Clarke, esquires, William Cunningham, a Lingdale miner, was found guilty of trespassing in a field in the occupation of Mr C Farndale, at Kilton, on the 7th inst, and also with snaring a hare. Inspector Allen and PC Brookeless watched defendant set the snare in the field and then sit down under a willow to wait, when their unwelcome presence was revealed to him and he ran away. Defendant, who did not appear, was fined 5s and 10s costs.

On 6 and 7 October 1889 the Wesleyan Methodists of Lingdale held their Thanksgiving services on Sunday and Monday. On Monday a public meeting was held, presided over by Mr C Farndale, Kilton, when addresses were delivered by Messrs Harkness, Wood, Clayton, Willigan, and Dixon.

On 13 and 14 October 1889 Harvest Thanksgiving services were held on Sunday in the Bible Christian Church, Brotton. On Monday a public meeting was held, presided over by Mr C Farndale, of Kilton, addresses being delivered by Messrs W H Treloar, W Stephens, and Rev E Turner. The church, which was tastefully decorated, was crowded at all the services.

On 21 March 1890, in the Skelton and Brotton Local Board Election, the following are the retiring members: … C Farndale (Kilton Ward). Nominations must be made on or before the 22nd inst.

Four sisters perhaps at time of Charles' family at Kilton Lodge about 1890 – probably Elizabeth Mary Douthwaite (nee Farndale), Annie Hall (nee Farndale), perhaps with Charles’ wife, Ann Farndale and Teresa Featherstone (nee Farndale).

The Census of 1891 confirmed that Charles Farndale, head, married, aged 50 was still farming at Kilton Hall Farm. With him were Ann Farndale, his wife, married, aged 43, born in Danby; and their children William Farndale, son, aged 15; George Farndale, son, aged 14; Mary Farndale, daughter, aged 13; Grace Farndale, daughter, aged 10; Albert Farndale, son, aged 9; and Sophia Farndale, daughter, aged 7.

On 25 and 26 December 1892 Primitive Methodism. The annual effort in connection with the above Society took place on Sunday and Monday. On the first day sermons were preached by Rev J Alderson, of Saltburn, morning and evening. In the afternoon the choir assisted by friends, gave a sacred cantats, entitled “Glad Tidings”. On Monday a public meeting was held in the schoolroom followed by a fruit banquet in the Chapel. Mr C Farndale, of Kilton, occupied the chair, and addresses were delivered by the Rev J Alderson, Messrs M Maughan, and M Russell. All the services were well attended.

On 27 March 1894, at the Guisborough Petty Sessions, the following overseers were appointed … Kilton: C Farndale, W Carter …

On Sunday 6 and Monday 7 October 1895 harvest thanksgiving services were held in the Bible Christian Chapel. On Sunday morning and evening sermons were preached by the Rev J Hart, and in the afternoon the choir rendered a service of song entitled “Harvest Pictures”. Mr Hart gave the connective readings. Mr. T James conducted the singing, and Master S James officiated at the harmonium. At the evening service the choir sang an anthem entitled “Once again has waved the golden grain”. On Monday night a meeting was held, presided over by Mr C Farndale, of Kilton lodge, and addresses were delivered by Messrs T Shepherdson, W Stephens, and the Rev J Hart. Large congregations were present at all the services. The Chapel was suitably decorated. The Whitby Gazette, on 11 October 1895 reported: BROTTON BIBLE CHRISTIANS. The harvest thanksgiving services in connection with this Society was held on Sunday, when the Rev J J Hart preached in the morning from the 6th chapter of Matthew xi verse and in the evening from the 12th chapter of St John xxiv verse. In the afternoon the choir, under the leadership of Mr. T James, rendered a service of song, entitled “Harvest Pictures”. The soloists were Miss Burrows, Miss E Borrows, Mrs Grange; Messrs Blewit and Hoggarth. Mr S James presided at the organ. On Monday evening a public meeting was held when addresses were given by the Rev J J Hart, Messrs Shepherdson and Stephens. Mr F (sic, recte C) Farndale of Kilton occupied the chair. At the close of the meeting the thank offerings were sold.

On Christmas Day 1895 the annual bazaar and tea in connection with the Primitive Methodist Chapel took place in the afternoon. The bazaar was opened by Mr T Ascough.There was an excellent display of goods, the stalls being held by Messrs Snow, Huntrod, Trelcar, Tippett, Waller, and Maughan and Mesdames Chapman, Payne, Grey, Tippett, and Marshall, and Misses Marshall and Tippett. An excellent tea was provided, the following presiding: Mesdames Garrett, Nicholson, Hudson, Nixon, and Misses Parkinson, Nixon (2), Grey, Wilson and Huntrod. In the evening a fruit banquet was held, Mr C Farndale of Kilton occupying the chair. A varied programme of songs, reservations, and readings was gone through, interspersed with several rounds of fruit. Addresses were given by the chairman and the Rev G Chun (Saltburn). Songs etc were given by Mr Hobbs, Mr Park, Mrs Hudson, Miss senior, and Miss Grey.

Referring to Charles’ wife Ann, their daughters, Grace and Mary, and their son Albert, on New Year's Day 1896 the annual sale of work was held in the Wesleyan schoolroom, the stallholders being Mrs Farndale, Miss Farndale, Miss Wade, and Masters F Merryweather and A Farndale. In the afternoon a sermon reached by Mr S B Wilcock, of Thirsk, who took for his text, vl. C. 65 v. A public tea was provided of which a good number partook.... and the Northern Echo, on 3 January 1896: Methodism at Brotton. On New Year's Day the usual tea and sale of work were held in connection with the Brotton Wesleyan Society. In the afternoon Mr S B Wilcox, of Thirsk, preached a sermon to a good congregation, and a public tea was held afterwards in the schoolroom, to which a goodly number sat down the tables being attended to by Mesdames Plews and Wheatley, Misses F Wheatley, Y Honey, A Collins, E Wright, and E Plews. Mesdames C Farndale and Merryweather, and Misses M Farndale and Wade, and Master Tom Merryweather were in charge of the stalls. In the evening Mr Wilcox delivered his popular lecture entitled “Turning points in life”. Mr Joseph Faulkner occupied the chair, and the lecture was greatly enjoyed. A coffee supper was held at the close. One feature of the day's proceedings was a series of exhibitions of living pictures. Miss G Farndale was the exhibitor. The proceeds were in aid of Chapel and society’s funds. On Wednesday night the annual teachers meeting of the Brotton Primitive Methodist Sunday school was held. The Rev G Chun, of Saltburn, presided and a large number of teachers were present...

In April 1886 Charles Farndale was appointed overseer for the District Council, for Kilton.

On 10 April 1896 Skelton and Brotton Urban council. The ordinary meeting of this body was held yesterday in the boardroom, Skelton, Mr E Hamilton presiding. Previous to the meeting the finance and highways committees met and considered the estimate for the forthcoming year, and sanctioned a general district rate of 1s 2d in the pound, and 2d in the pound for burial purposes. The medical officer submitted his report, which showed there had been four cases of diphtheria at North Skelton in three houses; 3 cases of scarlet fever in two houses, one at north Skelton, the other at Margrove Park. There had also been one case of erysipelas at North Skelton, and a case of enteric fever at Lingdale. One of the cases of diphtheria had been imported from Coatham. 41 births and 12 deaths had been registered during March, making the birth rate 42’4 and the death rate 12’4 per annum. The question of overcrowding in some houses at old Saltburn was considered, and Dr Stainthorpe reported that one of them only gave a cubical capacity of 200 feet for each of the inhabitants. The council decided to have the matter attended to. An application by Mr George Johnson, of Moorsholm, for permission to erect a slaughterhouse, was not entertained owing to the proximity of dwelling houses to the proposed site of erection. The clerk read a letter from Mr Rutherford, agent to Mr Maynard, granting permission to make certain improvements in Child Street, Brotton, and the Council decided to have the improvements carried out. It was decided to light the highway between North Skelton and Brotton from Park Lane to Millholme bridge. Applications for an advance of wages for the road men in the Council’s employ were brought before the meeting and it was agreed to grant them a shilling per week extra. The report on the sewage disposal works was read, and stated that the work was proceeding very satisfactorily, there being over 8 miles of pipes laid. It is expected the whole of the work will be completed by the specified time, this August next. The Council appointed overseers for the various townships in their district: Messrs R Day, William Hopper, and William Stephens for Brotton; Messes T Patch, W Cawthorn, R Young, H Cook and Stephenson for Skelton; for Stanghow, Messrs Allison and Wilson; For Moorsholm, Messrs J Bowness and N Ditchburn; And A Varty and C Farndale for Kilton. On the motion of Mr D W Dixon, seconded by Mr W, the chairman was heartily thanked for his services during the past year.

On Sunday 13 September 1896 at the harvest festival the Rev C Crawshaw preached in the morning … On Monday a public meeting was held, when addresses were given by the Rev J J Hart, and Messrs Plews and W Stevens. The chair was occupied by Mr C Farndale, of Kilton Lodge. The chapel was, as on former occasions, very tastefully decorated. At the close of the public meeting the thank offerings were sold.

In July 1898, the members of the Juvenile Rechabite Tent had their pic nic and sports at Kilton, in a field lent by Mr Farndale. About fifty children were provided with tea on the grass, and afterwards a number of adults. Sports and games were held in the afternoon and evening and prizes awarded to the winners.

The Independent Order of Rechabites, also known as the Sons and Daughters of Rechab, was a fraternal organisation and friendly society founded in England in 1835 as part of the wider temperance movement to promote total abstinence from alcoholic beverages.

On Christmas Day 1898, afternoon and evening, two sermons were preached by the Rev C Roberts in the primitive Methodist Chapel, and on Monday a Christmas tree was on view in the Cleveland Hall, under the care of Mr. T Hogarth and Mr Poppey. Stalls were also held by Messrs …. A public tea was held, when about 500 persons sat down, the tables being presided over by... In the evening a successful fruit banquet and entertainment was held, being presided over by Mr C Farndale, of Kilton.

On 9 January 1899 the annual dinner of the tenantry of Mr W H A Wharton, JP, of Skelton Castle, took place in the Wharton Arms Hotel, Skelton. Upwards of 40 guests attended, and an excellent repast was purveyed by Mr John Pattison. Afterwards the health of “The Old Squire” was proposed, and was accorded a hearty reception, many expressions of regret being made at Mr J T Wharton’s illness, and hope being expressed that he might live to attain his 90th birthday in March next. Mr C Farndale and Mr Hy Ross gave addresses, and songs were sung by Messrs Maughan, Treen, S Tate and others.

In March 1899, the arrangements for the annual social gathering of the Brotton Wesleyan Methodist Society on Wednesday were carried out chiefly by members of Mr Charles Farndale's family of Kilton lodge, and under their supervision the schoolroom had been transformed into a very attractive meeting place. About 100 ladies and gentleman accepted invitations, several of them being from Loftus, Liverton mines, Skinningrove, Carlin How, Saltburn etc. The usual parlour games were indulged in, and the proceedings were further enlivened by songs from Miss Graham, Miss Gatenby, Miss Edmond, Miss Allison (Saltburn), Miss Burrows, and Mr S James (Brotton). Recitations were also given by Miss Grey and Mr Burton, Saltburn. A recherche supper was provided, Mrs Farndale, Mrs Plews, Mrs Snaith, Mrs Merryweather, Mrs Webster and Miss Rodman attending. The company dispersed about midnight having spent a most enjoyable evening. The proceeds were in aid of these society’s funds. The York Herald, on 10 March 1899 reported: Brotton in Cleveland. Wesleyan social. On Wednesday night a very successful social gathering was held in the Wesleyan school room which had been prettily decorated for the occasion. About 100 ladies and gentlemen accepted invitations and spent the time in a variety of parlour games. Other additions to the evening’s enjoyment were provided by songs rendered by... Supper was provided by Mrs Farndale … the company broke up at twelve o’clock after having spent an enjoyable evening.

On 2 July 1899 the anniversary of the Brotton Wesleyan Sabbath school was held yesterday conducted by Mr William Cawthorn, of Boosbeck, who preached an eloquent and thoughtful sermon in the morning to a good audience. Large congregations were present afternoon and evening, when the scholars recited a number both pieces of poetry, dialogues etc. They sang special hymns, assisted by the chapel choir, under the director ship of Mr E A Landen. Master G H Robson played the harmonium. Anthems were also sung by the choir, Miss Farndale of Kilton lodge presiding at the instrument. Mr Cawthorn also delivered an address at the evening service. The collections were for school funds.

On 9 October 1899 a public meeting was held in the Bible Christian Chapel, brought on, presided over by Mr C Farndale, of Kilton lodge, when addresses were delivered.

Charles Farndale advertised for a ploughboy in the Daily Gazette for Middlesbrough, on 27 November 1899. Ploughboy (strong) Wanted, about 17, to go with horses. Apply Charles Farndale, Kilton Lodge, Brotton.

On 25 December 1899 the Primitive Methodist society held their usual effort on behalf of their church funds. A public tea was provided in the chapel, the tables being attended to by... A bookstore was superintended in the schoolroom by Mr Ralph and Mr Mark Cowan had charge of a fruit stall. A gramophone entertainment was provided by Mr Thomas Hogarth. In the evening a large fruit banquet was held in the Chapel, presided over by Mr Charles Farndale, of Kilton lodge, and a well arranged programme of vocal and instrumental music was rendered by several members of the choir. The event was very successful.

Charles Farndale’s family celebrated the new century in their usual fashion. The members of the Wesleyan Brotton Methodist Society held their usual effort on behalf of the Chapel and trust funds. Early in the afternoon a sale of work was opened in the schoolroom, and a good supply of useful articles was offered for Sale by the following ladies: Mrs Merriweather, Mrs C Farndale, Mrs Mede, Miss Farndale, Miss S Farndale, and Miss F Snaith. An eloquent sermon was preached by Mr S B Wilcock of Thirsk to a large audience from the text “Father forgive them for they know not what they do”, St Luke 23 chapter, 34th verse. A public tea was afterwards provided, the tables being attended by... In the evening Mr Wilcock delivered a highly interesting lecture on “The Pew, or Hearers and Hearing. Mr. J Faulkner presided over a large audience. During the afternoon and evening ventriloquial entertainments were given by Mr J B Hall. and in The Northern Echo, 2 January 1900: Brotton. In Brotton the day was observed pretty much as a general holiday, all the mines being laid off, and most of the places of business were closed. At the Wesleyan Methodist Church the usual New Year's day effort was held. A sale of work was opened in the schoolroom in the early part of the afternoon and the following ladies were in charge of the stalls... Mrs Farndale... Miss Farndale, Miss S Farndale...

On 21 February 1900 the Brotton Wesleyans had a very enjoyable “At Home” in their schoolroom, the proceeds of which, amounting to £4 2s 6d, were for the Trust Funds. The guests on their arrival were received by Miss Farndale, of Kilton Hall. Tea was provided, the tables being presided over by Mrs Merryweather, Mrs Dales, Mrs Siddle, Mrs Farndale, Mrs Ward and Mrs Webster. The schoolroom was prettily decorated and arranged as a drawing room. In the course of the evening songs were sung by Mr and Mrs A A Landon, Miss barrows, and others, the accompaniments being played by Mr S James. The Northern Echo, on 23 February 1900 reported: Brotton Wesleyans. On Wednesday night a very successful conersazione was held in the Wesleyan schoolroom, to which about 30 ladies and gentlemen accepted invitations. The guests were received by Miss farndale of Kilton hall in the early part of the evening, and the Rev J O Warburton, Staithes, presided over the proceedings. The room was very tastefully decorated with pictures, curtains, flags etc. Table and parlour games were indulged in, and at intervals songs and duets were sung by Mr and Mrs Loudon and Miss Burrows. Mr S James accompanied on the piano. Mr Hawkings of Loftus was present with his phonograph and entertained the company with several selections. Mr J B Hall of Brotton Villa, gave amusing ventriloquial sketches and imitation performances. Tea was served in the Chapel by Mrs Merriweather, Mrs Hy Dales, Mrs Siddle, Mrs Ward, Mrs Farndale and Mrs Webster. The enjoyment lasted from 6:30 until midnight, and the proceeds which were in aid of the trust funds, amounted to pounds £42 2s 6d, including 21s from Mr. J R Tireman, CC, Loftus.

On 1 July 1900 the Wesleyan Society celebrated their Sunday school anniversary yesterday, the preacher for the day was Mr Charles Plews, one of the school superintendents. In the morning he delivered a very forcible sermon, and in the afternoon and evening conducted children’s services, at which a number of the scholars recited poetry, dialogues etc. Special hymns and anthems were sung, with the assistance of the choir, under the leadership of Mr. A Landon. The accompaniments were played by Miss Farndale and Master George Hy Robson. The services were well attended and good collections taken for the school funds.

In August 1900 by the invitation of Mr and Mrs Charles Farndale the members of the Brotton Wesleyan Guild held a picnic at Kilton lodge on Wednesday afternoon. Owing to the unfavourable weather the attendance was not so large as was expected. Tea was served in the lodge kitchen and games were afterwards indulged in one of the adjoining buildings.

In January 1901 on Tuesday at Brotton Wesleyan Chapel, Mr AB Wilcock, of Thirsk, delivered a lecture on “Preachers and Preaching”. Mr Joseph Faulkner presided over a fair audience. The lecture was preceded by a public tea, at which the tables were attended by... There was also a stall of needlework presided over by Mrs Merryweather and Misses Farndale.

Vincent Grainger worked with the Farndales at Kilton in the early 1900s. In about 1985 he made a sound recording about Charles Farndale and his family and Kilton at that time.

Still to add the sound recording

It is worth bearing with the recording as there is some description of Kilton at the time, and the Farndales in the 1900s, as the recording goes on.

Vincent Grainger aged 16 Vincent Grainger August 1985 (aged 93)

Vincent Grainger worked on the farm at Kilton Lodge and was incorporated as a member of the family.

In the 1901 Census Charles Farndale was the head of the family, a farmer, aged 63 by then living at Stank House, on the Kilton estate. The family then comprised Ann Farndale, his wife, aged 53, born in Danby; George Farndale, the farmer’s son, aged 24, born in Kilton; Mary Farndale, daughter, aged 23, born Kilton; Grace Farndale, daughter, aged 20, born Kilton; Albert Farndale, son, aged 19, born Kilton, who was an architect pupil; Sophia Farndale, daughter, aged 16, born Kilton and also John Featherstone and John Holliday, servants, horsemen.

In October 1902 Harvest festival services were held in Commondale Wesleyan Chapel on Sunday, when Mr Thubron of Sedgefield preached two able sermons. Special anthems were rendered by the choir, and solos were sung by Mrs W Robinson and Mr. T George. The Chapel was very tastefully decorated with fruit and flowers. On Monday, a sermon was preached by Mr Arthur Pearson, the lay agent; and in the evening, Mr Charles Farndale, of Kilton presided over a good audience and appropriate addresses were given by the Rev G Killick Osborne and Mr Pearson. Tea and supper were provided by the generosity of the ladies in the neighbourhood.

On 3 November 1902, Ideal autumn weather yesterday morning favoured the opening meet of the season at Skelton castle, the picturesque home of the popular master Mr W H A Wharton. The air was crisp and invigorating, and the sun smiled radiantly upon the pleasing scene which was being enacted in front of the battlemented facade of the castle. On the gently sloping paddock was a large gathering of ‘brave men and fair ladies’, well mounted on their mettled steeds, all equally anxious to join in the chase, while in the background the gold and brown beach leaves shimmered in the gorgeous light and completed a picture of grace and beauty. The muster was a large one, and among those present in addition to Mr and Mrs Wharton, were Mr Dodge (Unionist Candidate for Cleveland), Mrs Dodge, Colonel and Mrs Chaloner, Miss Chlloner (Guisborough Hall), Captain M Fell, Mr H T N Newcomen (Kirkleatham Hall), Mr E K Fox and party (Pinchinthorpe), Captain and Mrs Freeman, Major E Hamilton, Mrs Dyson (Rigwood), Mr Claude and Misses Pease (Marske), Miss Bell (Rushpool), Miss Rutherford (Guisborough), Mr G B Jackson, Mr and Mrs Tulin, Dr Barnett (Saltburn), Dr and Mrs Bone (Marske), Mr and Mrs Stanton (Brotton), Dr and Mrs Forney, Mr. A Hilt, Dr and Mrs Shand (Guisborough), Mr Mossman Ormesby, Mr R A Stephenson, Mr. T Patch (Liverton), Mr Maughan (East Pastures), Mr Farndale (Kilton), Mr P W Dallin (Loftus), Mr S H Merryweather, Mr Bulmer (Guisborough), and Mr K Ross (Skelton). Light refreshments having been dispensed, the hounds, which looked in perfect trim, moved off to the Glen to the West of the Castle in the direction of Skelton Ellers.

In December 1902, on Wednesday afternoon, a bazaar and sale of work, organised by the ladies of the sewing committee in aid of the funds of the Loftus Wesleyan Methodist Church, was held in the Town Hall. It was opened by Mrs T D Stewart of Tyneholme, Liinthorpe, who was supported by... The lecture hall of the building was very tastefully decorated, and there were six stalls laden with goods under the care of... The refreshments stall and cafe which included a bride cake, was attended by ... In the gallery were a gypsy cauldron and the left luggage office. For the entertainment to visitors there was Mrs Jolly’s waxwork, tableaux vivants by the Misses Farndale and others, a ping pong tournament and a concert by the Loftus spring band.

A tableau vivant was a French term for a living picture, is a static scene containing by actors. The actors were stationary and silent, usually in costume, carefully posed, with props and scenery, and were sometimes theatrically lit. The art combined theatre with the visual arts. Before radio, film and television, tableaux vivants were popular forms of entertainment. They could be done as amateur ventures, sometimes in a drawing room, and often told a story without requiring all the usual trappings and production of a full theatre performance. They influenced the form taken by later Victorian and Edwardian era magic lantern shows, and perhaps also sequential narrative comic strips.

Methodism

Charles Farndale continued a long tradition of involvement with the local Wesleyan Church.

In an article on Methodism in Cleveland, The Methodist Recorder on 17 April 1902 described local methodism and the prominent role of Charles Farndale‘s family.

… But the Kilton of Wesley's time was a very different place to the deserted village of today. It could then boast of crowded streets and many shops. It was evidently a place “Where health and plenty cheered the labouring swain” and where oft times “All the village train, from labour free, led up their sports beneath the spreading tree”. But alas.as in the case of sweet Auburn “All these charms are fled and desolation saddens all thy green”.

Wesleyan services were held in a cottage until through certain changes, whole streets were left empty, and have sent since being demolished.

For very many years services have been held in the spacious farm kitchen of Mr C Farndale, Kilton lodge, which was also that of his father before him. Methodism in the neighbourhood and the cause of righteousness generally owes much to the high Christian character and active interest in all good works displayed by this devoted Methodist family. Here the preachers have always found a hearty welcome and ministers and others who know the circuit spent under this hospitable roof.

… The town of Loftus is pleasantly situated, within a few minutes walk the seashore, and yet is well protected from the severe blasts which frequently sweep from the sea. It is an important agricultural and mining centre, 4 miles from Saltburn, and 13 from Whitby. In the immediate neighbourhood or within easy distance of Loftus will be found some of the prettiest scenery in Yorkshire, the town hall with its lighted clock, the ancient parish church … services were held for many years in cottages, but the work of God extending A commodious Chapel was built. In 1871 the Loftus circuit was formed by separation from Guisborough, and the first minister appointed was the reference EP Lowry, who has rendered such splendid service as our devoted army chaplain amongst the troops in South Africa. In 1876 the cause at Loftus had so prospered that the present spacious and beautiful sanctuary was erected and received the name of the Newton memorial Chapel in memory of doctor Robert Newton who was born in the village of Roxby about two and a half miles from Loftus as the crow flies. The farmhouse in which he was born still exists though has suffered many altars.

For very many years services have been held in the spacious farm kitchen of Mr C Farndale, Kilton Lodge, which was also that of his father before him.

Methodism in the neighbourhood, and the cause of righteousness generally, owes much to the high Christian character and active interest in all good works displayed by this devoted Methodist family.

On Monday 9 February 1903 the members of the Brotton Wesleyan choir gave an entertainment in the North Skelton Primitive Methodist Chapel, before a good attendance, over whom Mr Charles Farndale, Kilton Thorpe, presided. Miss Farndale was accompanist and Mr William Nixon conducted during the singing, chorus etc.

On 22 January 1906 In connection with this (Wesley) Guild, a very enjoyable evening was spent on Monday night, when a Lantern lecture was given by friends from Brotton, entitled “A ramble through the Children's Home”. Mr. Cook presided. The connective readings were given by Mr H Dales. Songs, duets and recitations were rendered by Miss Farndale, the Misses Rigg and Dixon, Mr Rigg and Miss S Wheatley. The items on the programme were rendered in a very effective manner, an encore to Miss Wheatley’s recitation being demanded. There was a large company present.

On 10 July 1907 a sale of work in aid of the funds of the Brotton Bible Christian Church was held on Wednesday, the opening ceremony being performed by Mrs Caldwell, wife of Dr Caldwell. Mr C Farndale presided at the opening ceremony.

Picnic at Kilton Lodge about 1908. Vincent Grainger, Ann and Charles Farndale, George Farndale, Grace Farndale, an unknown person and Mary Farndale

On 6 May 1908 the two days sale of work in aid of the fund for carrying out alterations and improvements to the Wesleyan Chapel premises at Liverton Mines was commenced on Wednesday in the Town Hall, Loftus. The opening ceremony was performed by Mr C Farndale, of Kilton lodge and the circuit ministers, the Rev F S Moseley and the Rev W Slader also took part. This evening entertainments will be given by the Loftus Wesley Guild and the Skelton cooperative Glee Party.

On 14 September 1908 Mr L Rowland presided over a meeting held in the Loftus Chapel on Monday evening, to welcome the newly appointed ministers to the Loftus and Staithes Wesleyan circuit, the Revs O Wardley and W Nicholson. Addresses of welcome were given by Mr W Wilkinson, circuit steward, Loftus; Mr C Farndale, Kilton; and councillor H Dales, Brotton. The ministers made suitable replies.

On 16 June 1909 the annual festival in connection with the Loftus and Staithes Wesleyan circuit was held at Loftus on Wednesday. In the afternoon, a very interesting sermon was preached by the Rev J T Wardle, Stafford. A public tea was afterwards held, and in the evening a lecture was given by the Rev J T Wardle, Stafford, entitled “England 100 years hence”. Mr Farndale, of Kilton, presided.

On 26 September 1909 Harvest Thanksgiving services were held at the primitive Methodist Church on Sunday, the special preacher being Mr W Lashbrook, of Chester le Street. After the evening service, a sacred concert was given by the choir, the soloists being... The following programme was rendered - anthem, ‘Bless the Lord’, thy God, choir; song, ‘Lift thy heart’, … song ‘The soul’s awakening,’ … anthem ‘There is a green hill’, choir, song, ‘The king of love,... The proceeds were on behalf of the trust funds. A public meeting was held on Monday, when addresses were given by Revs J G Grainger, and M H Beddington. Mr C Farndale presided.

Kilton Tea Party about 1910 - Mrs Ann Farndale, Charles Farndale, visiting vicar (The Rev W Slader, O Wardley or W Nicholson perhaps?), Vincent Grainger (who worked on the farm) and Grace Farndale

Kilton Lodge about 1910 - Back row: unknown person, George Farndale, unknown person, Grace Farndale, Charles Farndale - Front row: Ann Farndale, three unknown people, Vincent Grainger

Kilton Life

An notice was placed on 25 March 1910 confirming that Tenders for supplies at Hilbrough Home were accepted as follow; Meat …; groceries …; flour …; clothing boots and shoes …; coal …; drapery …; brushes …; milk and potatoes, Mr C Farndale.

On 23 November 1910 a very successful Sale of Work etc was held in the Oddfellows Hall, Loftus, on Wednesday, by the members of the Newton Memorial Church, for the purpose of extinguishing the debt of £100 existing on the Church. The opening ceremony was performed by Mrs. T Thompson of Loftus who, after being introduced by the Rev W Powell, said it gave her great pleasure in the opening in opening the bazaar and wished the ladies every success in their efforts to wipe off the debt. Mr C Farndale of Kilton proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Mrs Thompson for having graciously opened the sale of works.

On 26 December 1910 the Married People’s Choir of the Brotton Primitive Methodist Church gave a service of song on Monday night entitled “Old Davie” under the conductorship of the Rev W F Todd, resident minister. Mr Jas Eldgood, junior, accompanied and Mrs Radford of Brotton Villa gave the readings. Mr C Farndale, of Kilton lodge, presided. A public tea was held in the afternoon.

Charles was working in partnership with his son, George Farndale by 1911. The 1911 Census recorded that Charles Farndale, 73, farmer, still lived at Stank House, Brotton with Ann Farndale, 63 ; George Farndale, farmer’s son and partner, 34; Mary E Farndale, 33, farmer’s daughter, dairywork; Grace Farndale, farmer’s daughter, dairywork; Albert Farndale, architect and two others working on the farm.

On 6 December 1911 the Carlin How and Skinningrove District has grown very rapidly during the last few years, and, in order to cope with the increasing demand for accommodation, the friends of the Wesleyan body have decided to build a new Wesleyan Church at Carlin How. The cost of the church will be £850, £500 of which has already been raised or promised. Mr T C Hutchinson, managing director of the Skinningrove iron works, has generously given the site. The buildings will be of brick, and will accommodate about 250 people. Mr. A Farndale is the architect, and Mr J K Wilson is superintending the work of erection. The foundation stone laying ceremony took place on Wednesday, in the presence of a good company. The Rev W Powell, Loftus conducted the ceremony, and stones were placed by Mrs M Moore, Westfield, Loftus,… C Farndale …. M Farndale, Craggs Hall... Mr E Lofthouse laid a stone in memory of the late Mr. A Murray weather, a prominent Brotton Wesleyan. The Rev J C Adelard (Saltburn) gave an address and a public tea took place in the preaching room, which has, for many years, done duty as a place of worship, but is now totally inadequate to meet the demands made-up on it.

On 25 March 1912 anniversary services were held in the Newton Memorial Church on Sunday, the special preacher being the Rev J Stringer, of Middlesbrough. At the evening service, the anthem ‘We never never will bow down’, was given by the choir. Mr J R Reed gave the solo, ‘the Lord is my light’. On Monday evening the same gentleman gave a lecture on ‘Jonah’. Mr C Farndale, of Kilton lodge was the chairman.

Buck Rush Farm in about 1912 which was part of Kilton Lodge Farm under Charles Farndale’s tenancy

On 17 June 1913 at Guisborough yesterday, Richard Welburn, miner, Lingdale, was fined 2s 6d and costs for trespassing in search of game in a field at Little Moorsholm. PC Atkinson saw defendant and heard him urge on his whippet dog to follow two rabbits. Frankland Heseltine and George Halliday, miners, Lingdale, where charged with a similar offence at Kilton, in a field occupied by Mr Charles Farndale. PC Atkinson said that at 7:15 on June 8th he saw defendants near Kilton pit. Halliday carried a whippet dog into the field and set it to follow a hare. Heseltine admitted that the dog was his, but Holliday said nothing. Defendants were ordered to pay the costs, 7s each.

Kilton Lodge Farm in about 1920

The death of Charles Farndale

Charles Farndale, of Kilton Lodge died aged 76 and was buried at Brotton on 21 March 1914. March 18th, at Kilton lodge, Brotton, Charles Farndale, aged 76 years, of bronchial pneumonia. To be interred at Brotton Saturday 21st March. Service in Wesleyan Church at 2:15 PM. No cards. Cortege to leave Kilton Lodge at 1.30. FARNDALE. March 18th, at Kilton lodge, Brotton, Charles Farndale, aged 76, of bronchial pneumonia. To be interred at Brotton on Saturday March 21st, service in Wesleyan Church at 2:15 PM. No cards.

His burial was taken under the Burials Amendment Act 1880 by Rev William Taggart, the Wesleyan Minister.

Before 1880 no body could be buried in consecrated ground except by an Anglican church service. By the Burial Laws Amendment Act 1880, the bodies of persons entitled to be buried could be buried in church graveyards, on proper notice being given to the minister, without the performance of the service of the Church of England, and either without any religious service or with a Christian and orderly religious service at the grave, which could instead be conducted by any person invited to do so by the person in charge of the funeral. The Act also allowed the use of the Church of England Burial service on unconsecrated ground.

We know that Charles Farndale was a non conformist Primitive Methodist, so it may be that it was necessary to rely on this Act to enable him to be buried in a Church of England graveyard.

Charles’ Gravestone at Brotton Old Churchyard reads In loving memory of Charles Farndale, Kilton Lodge, died March 18th 1914 aged 76. Also his beloved wife Ann died March 24th 1934 aged 86 Years.

Kilton after Charles Farndale

After Charles Farndale died, his wife Ann continued to contribute to the local community. On 18 November 1915 Mr Henry Dales presided over the weekly meeting of the Brotton Wesley Guild on Thursday night, last week, and provided an interesting programme of questions which were answered by several members of the meeting. Musical selections were also rendered by an orchestra … a recitation entitled “Nelly's prayer” was given in capital style by Miss Ashton of Brotton. At the close of the meeting, a sale of articles in aid of the Comforts for Soldiers Fund took place. The things sold comprised Christmas cake, given by Mr George Lindsey; leghorn cockerel, given by Mr Wardill, Grange Farm; Apples, given by Mrs Farndale, Kilton Lodge; and a child's knitted bonnet, given by Mrs Ashton. A substantial sum was realised by the effort.

The 1921 Census showed the inhabitants of Kilton Lodge were Mary E Farndale, 43, single, home duties; Grace Farndale, sister, 41, home duties and assistants on the ‘Farndale Farm’.

Ann Farndale died on 24 March 1934. Deaths … Farndale - on March 24th, Ann Farndale, at Kilton Lodge, Brotton.

On 12 September 1934 windows and tablets to the memory of the late Mr and Mrs Charles and Anne Farndale, of Kilton Lodge, and the late Mrs Sarah Dales, wife of Henry Dales, the Avenue, Brotton, were unveiled by Mr William Hedley and dedicated by the Rev William Sarginson, of Saltburn, formerly of Loftus, at Brotton in Cleveland, Wesley church on Wednesday night.

Charles and Ann’s son, George Farndale continued to farm at Kilton until he retired in 1940. When the era of the Farndales at Kilton, who had been dominant there since about 1705, finally came to an end.

How does Charles Farndale relate to the modern family?

Charles Farndale was a central figure in the extended family at Kilton in the later nineteenth century.

Those who trace their ancestry through the Kilton 1 Line are likely to be relatively closely related to Charles.

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The webpage of Charles Farndale includes research notes, a chronology and source references.