This month the Diamond Jubilee of our most gracious Queen is the one paramount thought in everybody’s mind. The whole land - from north to south, from east to west - will resound with rejoicings and thanksgivings, for this has not only been the longest but the most blessed reign in history.

It has for the most part been a period of peace, and it has been a time of unparalleled progress and prosperity. Commerce has advanced by leaps and bounds. Comforts have multiplied. Wages have increased. Above all, true religion has enormously deepened its hold on the hearts and lives of men. We have abundant reason then to thank our God, and to congratulate each other and to do our utmost to brighten the lives of those around us.

Our local celebrations will commence with the Sunday Services, which will be of a very bright and joyful character. Special hymns will be sung, and some special prayers will be used. The offertories throughout the day, at all the services, will be equally divided between the “Diamond Jubilee Nurse Fund” and the Richmond Hospital, these two objects being in exact accord with the expressed wishes of the Queen, in agreement with the desire of our Bishop, and I think also consonant with our own feelings and sympathies. I may say that the funds for the Nurse continue to come in steadily, but a considerable portion of what has been received is in the form of donations, and to place the fund on a safe basis it is still desirable that there should be substantial additions to the subscriptions.

As all are aware, a large Committee and various sub-committees have been formed for the purpose of arranging “Festivities” in the parish. These are fixed for Thursday, the 24th inst. I believe it is impossible to say, at present, exactly what these will consist of, as everything depends upon the amount of money subscribed. I imagine that it will be everybody’s wish that the day shall be one of enjoyment to all, and that it may be remembered by the children throughout their lives. A good substantial tea, for the old people at least all will desire to see. The Committee have declared their intention to extend this to every parishioner who wishes to come, and this they will do if they meet with adequate support. Games and amusements, for all ages, in the course of the afternoon and evening are also in the programme. Mr. H. Bowling-Trevanion is the Treasurer. Contributions will be thankfully received either by him or by Mr. Makepeace, at the Post Office. I have been asked to remind everybody that it will greatly add to the festive character of the day if there is a general display of flags and bunting. Hampton Hill must not be behind in its manifestation of loyalty.

Source: The Hampton Hill Parish Magazine - 1897 June