Timepieces and Two Heroes
This autumn we went from the 18th century precision of Dumvile clockmaking to the endurance and heroic effort of two local men in their attempt in 1924 to conquer the mighty Mount Everest.
In September our "Home Grown" team comprising Sandra Woodall, Andrew Smith and Mike Bower shared their detailed research into the Dumvile family who were prominent English horologists in the 18th and 19th centuries. Probably the best known clockmaker in the family was John Dumvile [1720-1796] who was from Nether Alderley. It was a fabulous and fun evening with a "clock" theme running throughout with biscuits, clothes and hats. Caroline Dumvile, a descendant of the family, was our special guest. As a finale, Stephen Mills gave us a rendition of the song "My Grandfather's Clock" which was written 150 years ago in 1876. Thanks also to Stewart Dyer too for his hard work on the visuals for the presentation.
At the beginning of November, we were joined by Peter Cotton who told us the story of two Cheshire heroes, George Mallory and Andrew Irvine, who perished on the North Face of Mount Everest in 1924. Mallory and Irvine, an unlikely pairing [one being the best climber of his time and the other a complete novice but with extraordinary engineering knowledge and a skill in the maintenance of oxygen tanks], were last seen ascending near Everest’s summit. There was and still is much speculation as to whether they reached their goal before they died.
The loss of Mallory and Irvine on Everest isn’t disputed but it has left us with more questions than answers. Peter offered a number of theories, some very plausible and others not so [Chinese body snatchers and an encounter with a Yeti come to mind!].
George Mallory pledged to leave a photograph of his wife at the summit should he make it and when his body was found the photograph was missing. Did he make it to the summit, leave the photograph and die on the way down …. or knowing that he wasn’t going to make it take out the photograph to say a last goodbye to his wife and the photograph was ripped from his hand as he passed away by one of the high-altitude winds that are prevalent on Mount Everest.
Peter Cotton’s knowledge and the depth and quality of his research on the subject shone through. He gave a fascinating, educational, thought provoking and, at times, emotional presentation.
Hilary Reeman[1937-2026]
Once again this year we are sharing sad news. AHG member, Hilary Reeman, passed away at the end of August. Hilary was involved with the AHG from the very beginning and served on the founding Committee in the role of Membership Secretary.
She was totally invested in “all things Alderley” and had a keen interest in local history. Her real passion was the Alderley Edge, Wilmslow and District Footpaths Preservation Society, an organisation which existed from 1913-2024, now an informal walking group. During her time in the Society she was an avid walks leader and organiser, and a passionate defender of rights of way. She loved the countryside, particularly the hills of Rainow and Kerridge. There are few footpaths in East Cheshire that Hilary didn’t walk across.
Reminiscing, AHG Chairman, Sue Byrne, said “Hilary was truly a lovely person with a great sense of humour. She will be much missed”.
Hilary was married to the late Michael Reeman, a teacher and head-teacher. As well as being a keen sportsman, Michael was a former Dean Row councillor and former chairman of Wilmslow Urban District Council.
We are not saying its Christmas yet ... but
On Monday, 7th December 2026, we have our Finale for 2026.
Get into the Christmas spirit with our seasonal Social and Supper. Always a popular evening with our members and their guests, the event includes a hot pot supper with bread, mulled wine, mince pies, raffle, and of course our famous Christmas Quiz. Stephen Mills will be entertaining us with a ghost story that is sure to leave a lasting impression. It promises to be an evening of good food, great company and plenty of historical banter - with a festive twist of course! The price is £12.50 per person for both members and guests. For this event we need you to let us know if you will be attending so we have a good idea of the numbers we are catering for. If you haven't booked your place already, please contact Mandy Parr mandy@mandyparr.com very soon. There will not be a Zoom link for this event. PS ..... Just in case you haven't already heard, the Christmas Fair hosted by St Philip's and St James Church which was due to take place at the end of November has been cancelled. |
Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year
As this is our last Newsletter for this year, we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Healthy New Year. See you in 2027 for our Annual General Meeting. |
Date for your 2027 CalendarAnnual General Meeting after which our guest speaker will be Ray Walker presenting his illustrated talk "Over Alderley - Its Rise and Fall" Monday, 1st February 2027 Union Club, Stevens Street, Alderley Edge 7.15 p.m. for 7.30 p.m. |
Echoes from the Past[compiled by Denise Psaila]A little bit of 70's nostalgia!1976 was 50 years ago, yes really, its true! At the beginning of December 1976, the staff, parents and pupils at St Hilary's School were staging a Revue of songs, dancing and sketches. This is a cutting from the Alderley & Wilmslow Advertiser showing a picture of the pupils who took part in the "Mad Hatter's Tea Party" sketch. We are sure there will be some names mentioned that are familiar to many. |
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