This annual supper, which includes fathers as well as mothers, took place at the Boys’ School on the evening of New Year’s Day. Upwards of 90 were invited, but the weather was not at all propitious for the old and delicate.

Many whose work lay far from home were hindered from returning in time by the dense fog which prevailed at that time, but upwards of 60 sat down, and more came in afterwards. The supper,which was in fact very much the same as one of our parish teas, with the addition of as much cold meat as could be eaten, took place at the usual hour - a quarter to seven. Large numbers of ladies and, gentlemen, district visitors and school teachers, kindly gave their services as helpers, or presided over the tea department.

As soon as the tables were cleared and the room had been re-arranged, the entertainment began. There was a very varied programme, including readings, recitations, songs, and instrumental performances, all of which gave great satisfaction, and a happy evening was spent.

Perhaps it might be well to take the present opportunity of explaining what the Mothers’ Meetings are. There are three separate meetings, undertaken very kindly by ladies in the different parts of the parish. Mrs. FitzWygram holds one in her own house. Mrs. Salmon continues that which was so long held by our good friend Mrs. Garnons in the Eastbank Road Mission Room; and Miss Barnard holds a third in the Mission Room in the Pantile Fields. The meetings take place once every week in the afternoon. The mothers bring their work and their babies also, when it is necessary, and an interesting book is read to them. A few minutes is occupied towards the close of the meeting by a reading of a religious character, and the meeting is closed with prayer and the singing of a hymn. Occasionally the ordinary routine is interfered with by the introduction of a cup of tea.

Source: The Hampton Hill Parish Magazine - 1889 February