History of the Pickwick Bicycle Club

Compiled by “The Hon. Mr. Crushton”

Published by The Pickwick Bicycle Club
18, Eldon Street, London, EC
1905

On January 18th, 1902, a Sub-Committee was appointed for the purpose of compiling a History of the Pickwick Bicycle Club. The following is their report:

It had been felt for some time past that this Club – which, owing to its being the oldest Bicycling Club in existence, occupies a somewhat unique position – ought to possess a permanent record of its early history.

As members have been informed in the Monthly Circular, the work has been done, and in presenting their report, this Committee desire at the outset, to say that, at their request, Mr. W. E. Blake (the Hon. Mr. Crushton) undertook the compiling of the narrative, and has done his work in a manner that will, we are sure, meet with the members’ entire approval. When it is understood that from the first meeting in 1870 down to 1904 the record is complete and continuous; that every event (public and private) with which the Club has been associated – all its races, tours, and the cycling performances of its members are described in most readable and interesting form; members will realize how great has been the task and how well the Hon. Mr. Crushton has performed the work with which his name will be connected as long as the Club exists.

This book, if published, will undoubtedly be of considerable value to all who have an interest in the sport, for it is well known that the Pickwick Bicycle Club was closely identified in the early days with all the important events that marked the rise and progress of cycling.

Such events as the Hampton Court Meets, the great Race Meetings, early record rides and tours, which had so much to do with bringing the bicycle into public favour, are graphically recorded, so that this work forms practically the History of the Sport as well as that of our own Club, and will be a handbook and authority to future generations on the rise of cycling in this country.

To Pickwickians themselves it will need no recommendation; the older members cannot fail to derive pleasure in recalling the incidents and personalities associated with the early days of the Club, whilst new members will feel no less interested in its traditions.

The Committee, therefore, confidently hand over the MS: to the Club, and recommend that arrangements be made to print and publish it in book form.

SHIRLEY FUSSELL
WALTER E. BLAKE
HERBERT C. HILL
EDWARD HILL, Hon. Secretary

June 13th, 1904

Introduction

In taking upon myself, at the request of the other members of the “History Sub-Committee,” the task of compiling these records, I felt I was incurring a responsibility of which it was not easy to see the outcome; but the kind encouragement and patience of my colleagues has enabled me to keep my hand to the plough, and produce the result, such as it is, which is now placed before my fellow members and other readers. The subject is not one about which a romance can well be woven, consisting as it does mainly of bare facts, but I have endeavoured to make the account readable, and trust that all shortcomings will receive the indulgence which may fairly be claimed for the work of an amateur. At first it was difficult to think in what direction to seek for information to start upon, but our old friends Lieutenant Tapplelton (K. M. Yeoman), Master Bardell (H. C. Hill), Count Smorltork (Shirley Fussell) and Serjeant Snubbin (J. W. Raybould) assisted with various old newspaper cuttings, run cards and early recollections, and thus formed a valuable nucleus to work upon. The minute books were, of course, the main guide to occurrences which were to take place, but they do not form a record of events performed. The Field: the Country Gentleman’s Newspaper (at that time the principal recorder of all sporting matters) had taken up cycling as soon as it began to develop, and at The Field office they very courteously allowed me to have access to the old volumes of their journal, from which much valuable matter was obtained. After a few years, when cycle racing began to attract attention and cycling journals bloomed forth in all their glory, Bicycling News became the chief organ of the sport, and I cannot say too much to thank Mr. S. R. Noble, the Secretary of the National Cyclists’ Union, for his kindness in allowing me the use of the volumes of that journal in their library upon all occasions when I wished to refer to them. From those volumes was obtained, as it were, a bird’s eye view of the busy and brilliant doings of the cycling world at its most active period, doings with which our old Club was intimately associated, and the memories of which – Race Meetings, Hampton Court Meets, and other gay functions – must endure as long as life lasts, in the minds of those of our old members who took part in them. Those records took me down to the time when Count Smorltork, as Hon. Secretary, instituted the Monthly Circular to members, and from those circulars I have been enabled to complete this humble work, for which I can only claim that it is as complete a history as I have been able to make it of the Club’s doings from June 22nd, 1870, to the end of the year 1904.

WALTER E. BLAKE
Hon. Mr. Crushton

New River House
Rosebery Avenue, E.C.
May, 1905.

History by Date

1870 to 1904

As the veteran cyclist and clubmen of over thirty years’ standing (now, alas! no longer young) takes his walks abroad, or his sober ride awheel, as the case may be, he will think, perchance with a sigh, that, of the hundreds of riders he will meet, how very few know anything of the kind of cycling that he knew in his younger days – in days when it was a dangerous thing for a cyclist to ride alone; when he was considered fair sport for the hooligan of the period, who was not particular whether it was a brick or an epithet, frequently both, that he hurled; when riders had to be able and ready to use their fists in self protection, at a moment’s notice, if need be, and each man, so to speak, carried his life in his hand. In those dark ages of cycling – when the sensation of riding on wheels was a novelty, and the old bone-shaker, with its iron tyres and wooden spokes, was looked upon as quite a fiery steed by its owner – a few friends, residing in the northern suburbs of London, full of the freshness of youth, and eager for “travel and adventure”, embarked upon the pursuit of the coming popular pastime, and arranged outings together for their mutual enjoyment and good fellowship. A few such excursions as those soon led the friends to form the idea of associating themselves still more closely by forming a club, at which meetings could be held for social intercourse, and the discussion of matters relating to their pastime, in a way which could not be done in the interval occurring during the course of a ride out in the country. With this end in view, a meeting was held on the 22nd day of June, 1870, at the Downs Hotel, Hackney Downs, there being present on that occasion Messrs. J. A. Johnson, Jno. Bryant, W. E. Maverly, K. M. Yeoman, L. C. B. Yeoman and D. S. Medcalf, in all six good men and true.

Mr J. A. Johnson was voted to the Chair. The first resolution passed was, of course, that a club should be formed; after which came various other resolutions relating to the admission of new members, the officers of the club, and subscription. Then happened a very curious thing, which goes far to show that Pickwickian (Club) ideas at that time must have been very much of the “Garden of Eden” order, whatever they may have become since – I give the words of the motion exactly as in the minute book, so that there may be no mistake: “It was proposed by Mr. W. E. Maverly and seconded by Mr. L. C. B. Yeoman, “That the club uniform be simply a white straw hat with a black and amber ribbon””; and as there appears no record of any opposition, we may conclude that the proposition was duly carried. Simplicity, indeed! More simple, and easier to carry about, than some uniforms of a later day, consisting of more parts, and glorified with military froggings and other adornments dear to the soul of the wearer.

Mr. K. M. Yeoman was elected Captain, and Mr. L. C. B. Yeoman, Hon. Secretary, and with these two officers, the Club, which has been destined to see already thirty-three years of existence, started on a career which has not been without adventure, and which has certainly contributed greatly to the health and happiness of its members. It has seen its ups and downs, its pleasures and sorrows, and has come triumphantly through all with an unblemished record; and is now, thanks to the good management of its officers and the loyalty of its members, in a more prosperous condition than ever.

It may here be noted that, of the six original members, the founders of the Club, three are distinctly in evidence: W. E. Maverly (Sam Weller) occasionally puts in an appearance, to the great delight of all who know him. K. M. Yeoman (now Lieut. Tappleton) is a constant attendant at headquarters, and defeats many of the younger members at billiards in a benign and fatherly manner, to the mutual joy of both players. Poor old Jack Bryant was occasionally with us till a year or two ago, when his health broke down, and he went abroad, but is in correspondence with some of his old friends.

At that first meeting, it was decided that the Downs Hotel should be the general rendezvous for bi-weekly excursions on Wednesdays and Saturdays.

The first meeting having had such important matters as those enumerated to settle, there was no room for anything else; so the momentous question of nomenclature was held over till another meeting, which was specially convened to consider it, on the 6th day of July, 1870, when J. Bryant took the Chair. Several names were proposed and discussed, but none that seemed to meet with general approval, till a happy idea occurred. Charles Dickens had but recently quitted for ever the sphere of his immortal labours (he died on 9th June, 1870), and his death caused a wave of sorrowful enthusiasm with regard to his writings, and a general desire to associate his name or works with any undertaking which might be suitable for the purpose: and here seemed an ideal opportunity – “Pickwick” was suggested and found favour – then, on the proposal of Mr. J. A. Johnson, it was decided to name the new body “The Pickwick Bicycle Club,” and it was further agreed that each member should be known by a sobriquet selected from the characters in the Pickwick Papers, and is addressed by that name at all club meetings; the Captain always to be Samuel Pickwick, Esq., during his tenure of that office. The sobriquets were in the first place balloted for, with the following results (K. M. Yeoman, of course, being Mr. Pickwick); J. A. Johnson, Mr Jingle; J. Bryant, Tracy Tupman; W. E. Maverly, Sam Weller; L. C. B. Yeoman, Serjeant Buzfuz; and D. S. Medcalf, Mr Wardle.

The incidents already referred to having formed the inception and constitution of the Club, we are now able to start upon an account of its doings, as far, at least, as early records available will allow us. The “Excursions”, as they appear to be termed in the accounts, did not at first extend beyond the delightful region of Epping Forest and the surrounding towns and villages, halts being usually made on such rides at the Eagle, at Snaresbrook, or the George, at Woodford. It was upon one of these occasions, tradition hath it, that Jack Bryant represented the party in an “animated discussion” with an abusive and pugilistic butcher; with a result, however, not sufficiently decisive to entirely satisfy the requirements of Mr. Tracy Tupman; though when “the boys” again passed that way, a week or two later, prepared for eventualities, it was noted that that butcher was nowhere to be seen.

On looking through the old minutes, one cannot help being amused at the kind of military discipline and method which ruled the excursions of the Club in those times, when to disobey the command of the Captain was a crime almost deserving of capital punishment; and when strict obedience was exacted to the riding rules and regulations laid down. In this connection, it appears that, in September, 1870, a system of signals by whistle was established, for the guidance of members when riding together on dark winter evenings. One sharp whistle signified “caution”; one long whistle, “gathering or closing up”; two whistles, “stoppage”; and three, “distress”. (It here occurs to the writer of these notes that, if a poor youth in distress were being assaulted by a rough, before he could blow three times he might get the whistle knocked down his throat.) From the fact of nothing being stated to the country, it may be assumed that the use of these whistles was to be general among the riders, and it can easily be imagined that the signals frequently got mixed up; and this appears to be borne out by a later minute) though the system continued for two years), for in September, 1872, the rule was revised, and it was then decided that a whistle may be carried by each member, but must be used only by the Captain and Sub-Captain.

1871

The first “Open Meeting” of the Season was fixed for March 25th, 1871, the run being to the King’s Head, at Chigwell; and it seems to have been conducted on much the same lines – in a smaller way – as the “Opening” and “Closing” meetings afterwards held at the Forest Hotel, Chingford, commencing with a high tea, followed by a convivial evening, contributed to, in the matter of song, etc., by those who were able to do so. Each member had the privilege of inviting two friends.

At a meeting held on September 28th, 1871, it was decided that the Club have a “Pickwickian Feed” on Saturday, October 7th, to be held at the King’s Head, Chigwell. This was the first of the “Annual Dinners,” which function has been continued from year to year, and, like the rolled snowball, has so increased in size, that the number on the occasion of the 1901 dinner reached a total of over one hundred and fifty members and friends.

1872

The opening meeting of 1872 was fixed for April 27th, and the run was to be to the Welsh Harp, at Hendon; and it was decided to advertise the event in The Field, The Hackney and Kingsland Gazette, and The North Londoner. It may be mentioned here that the practice of advertising the Club’s doings has been discontinued for many years, and it is difficult now to see what object was gained by it then.

In May, 1872, it was arranged to have monthly moonlight rides, the dates to be advertised in local papers – this, we suppose, was to give the “Dick Turpin” of the time a chance.

About this time there joined the Club W. H. J. Grout, whose name will be remembered by old riders as the inventor, afterwards, of a joint patent arrangement for tightening up spokes, and a wonderful notched tyre – the idea being, presumably, to prevent slipping, but which must have provided a plentiful fund of resistance to the exertions of the rider.

On June 19th, in the same year, a proposal was received from the Surrey Bicycle Club (founded only a few months after the Pickwick Bicycle Club), that the Pickwick Bicycle Club should amalgamate with it, and other clubs, with a view of forming “one monster club,” but, after due consideration, the Pickwicks unanimously decided to retain their individuality and title – a decision upon which I am sure all members of the present time may heartily congratulate themselves.

During the first two years of the Club’s existence, though the members had many pleasant gatherings, their numbers did not increase rapidly, and at the end of that period they only mustered sixteen members; but still, with that small increase, the desire grew for wider travel, and no doubt a spirit of emulation also with regard to other clubs which had now begun to spring into existence; and in July, 1872, we find that an outing was arranged to Tunbridge Wells, starting from Town on the Saturday before the August Bank Holiday, putting up at the Railway Bell at “the Wells”, and leaving for the return journey on Monday morning – so even then, it will be seen, it was thought necessary to allow the day to ride from Tunbridge Wells to London.

At the same meeting, at which the above arrangement was settled, it was also decided that, as the Club was increasing in numbers, it was necessary to draw up a set of rules for its better government, and a committee of five members was appointed for that purpose; our present friends, W. E. Maverly and K. M. Yeoman, being among the number.

At the meeting held on September 5th, 1872, the new rules were formulated and agreed to, and the first election of officers since the Club’s foundation took place. Two new offices were then created, those of Sub-Captain and Treasurer, the Treasurership being combined with the office of Hon. Secretary. The result of the voting was that Mr. Pickwick (K. M. Yeoman) was re-elected Captain by a large majority; Mr. Wardle (H. E. Watson), Sub-Captain; and Serjeant Buzfuz (L. C. B. Yeoman), Hon. Secretary and Treasurer; and the first Club run under the new rules was to take place on September 14th, to the George, at Enfield.

The Club now seemed to be going gaily, as in October we find that a Club photograph was to be taken, a copy of the rules supplied to each member, and various other matters indicating increasing energy and enterprise. At this time also (October 2nd), there appears the first mention of a Club race, when it was proposed to have such an event to Huntingdon, and that the prizes be paid for out of the entrance fees. Mr. Nupkins; Mr. Wardle and Serjeant Buzfuz were deputed to make the necessary arrangements.

These pioneers of the sport were not to be deterred by trifles; but the clerk of the weather appears to have had something to say on this occasion, and a week later we find it was proposed to postpone this race, owing to the unpropitious state of the weather and badness of the roads; and it requires no stretch of the imagination to conceive that a 50-mile road race, on heavy machines, at the latter part of the year, was no light undertaking in days before any “Roads Improvement Association” was thought of, even had the weather not been bad, and I am informed that this race never came off. A challenge received at the same time from the Middlesex Bicycle Club, for a number of their members to ride a 50-mile race against an equal number of Pickwickians, was declined for the same reason. In the same report is an announcement that Mr. J. Inwards, of The Field, was desirous of organizing a large meet of all the London Bicycle Clubs at Richmond Park, and asking if such an arrangement would be supported by the Pickwick Bicycle Club, when it was unanimously agreed to fall in with the idea, and endeavour to have a meeting of officers of the various Clubs to carry out Mr. Inward’s proposal.

There is a record in The Field, of October 5th, 1872, that “last Saturday some of the members of the Pickwick Bicycle Club rode from Hackney Downs to Chipping Ongar, in 1 hr. 50 m. Three of them, riding tension bicycles, returned to Chigwell against a head wind and over a bad road in1 hr. 10m.”

The second Annual Club Dinner was held at the Masons’ Tavern, on November 16th, 1872, though records do not tell us how many the company numbered, nor the menu provided; but it may be safely taken for granted that the occasion was enjoyed in the thoroughly Pickwickian manner which has always characterised the Club’s social gatherings. The captains of the Surrey and Middlesex Bicycle Clubs, and Mr. Inwards, were invited as the guests of the Clubs.

At a meeting held on December 4th, it was resolved to remove the headquarters to the Mitford Tavern, Amhurst Road, Hackney; and on the 11th of that month, the first meeting took place. It was then proposed that a Club Ball should be held at the Albion Hall, Dalston, on January 22nd, 1873; Messrs. Pickwick, Bob Sawyer, Serjeant Buzfuz, Rev. Mr. Stiggins, Snodgrass, and Tracy Tupman, being appointed stewards to carry out all arrangements. It was also decided to advertise the Ball three times in The Hackney and Kingsland Gazette, and to have two hundred large posters and one hundred window bills printed to further notify the great event. Although there is no written account, I am informed by Lieut. Tappleton that this Ball duly took place, and was a very successful gathering.

1873

On the 2nd of April, 1873, it was decided that the opening meeting should take place at Chigwell, on the 19th of that month; the run starting from the Mitford Tavern, at 3.30 p.m. It was also decided that the Club photograph should be taken on the first Saturday in May, which was in due course successfully done.

Good Friday of 1873, fell on April 11th, and the Surrey Bicycle Club organized an Easter tour of four days, in which five Pickwickians took part. A lengthy account of this excursion appeared in the Daily News of April 21st, with names of members and description of mount given in conspicuous detail. (I here note that our old members were evidently very proud of their sobriquets, for they figure in newspaper accounts and race meeting programmes alike, and must have caused vast amusement to the uninitiated). In the account referred to, Mr. Pickwick is described as riding a 44-inch wheel; Mr. Wardle, a 47-inch; Tracy Tupman, a 48-inch; Bob Sawyer, a 44-inch; and Mr. Snodgrass, a 48-inch There were five members of the Surrey Bicycle Club, headed by their captain, R. T. Caustoo. Starting from Kennington Oval (the Surrey B.C. headquarters) at 5.45 a.m., on Good Friday, the first day’s journey was to Margate, via Gravesend, Chatham, and Canterbury, the distance covered being 71 miles; the party reached their destination at 7.15 p.m., 13½ hours from the start. Next morning, Sandwich was reached at 8.20 a.m., the day’s run being to Rye, 60 miles; arriving at 7.20 p.m., about 12 hours from the start. Leaving at 8 o’clock next morning, breakfast at Hastings at 9.30, then by way of Eastbourne and Lewes to Brighton, 56 miles for the day. The fourth morning, Easter Monday, commenced with a run before breakfast, out and back, and the party left Brighton at 10.50 for home, reaching the Oval at 9.10 p.m. The tour seems to have been very much enjoyed, though somewhat chequered by a few accidents and some bad roads, though the weather was good.

The first Club run was fixed for June 21st, 1873, to Ware, and to be a scratch race, a committee of five being appointed to carry out the arrangements; Serjeant Buzfuz acting as umpire. The first prize was to be provided from the entry fees, supplemented by a grant from the Club funds. A second prize was offered by Tracy Tupman, on condition that not less than four riders started – the race to take place whatever the weather might be, and the course from the Mitford Tavern to the Royal Oak, Ware. This event came off under favourable conditions, with the following result: Tracy Tupman (48-inch) first, 1 h, 28 m.; Mr Pickwick (44-inch), 1 h. 34½ m. and Solomon Pell (W. Biddlecombe, 53-inch), 1 h. 39½ m.. One competitor rode Sam Weller’s machine, which, being painted a brilliant yellow, caused much amusement and some rude remarks. The prizes were presented at a Special Club Outing, at the King’s Head, Chigwell, on July 19th, when a tea and musical evening accompanied the interesting ceremony.

On July2nd of this year was elected, as an honorary member, Count Smorltork (Shirley Fussell), who remains an active member of the Club to the present day, and has served it in important official capacities, having twice occupied the Presidential Chair for the allotted year assigned to that office. His name will occur more than once in the chronicles that follow.

I now have before me the programme of a race meeting, held at the Royal Surrey Gardens, on August 9th, 1873, at which four of our members competed, their sobriquets being printed, as usual – Pickwick, Tupman, Wardle, and Snodgrass. It must have been very interesting racing, as the track was quite an improvised affair, being formed of boards laid down wherever a way could be found among the paths, flower beds, and the various landscape effects of the old gardens (as I remember them), making a track – such as it was, and tortuous withal – of about eight laps to the mile. To the best of my recollection, the site of these old gardens, with their nice lake and pretty floral arrangements, was all laid out for building not long after this time. The riding colors – scarlet, green, blue, pink, yellow, etc – look a bit gaudy at first sight; but I understand these were represented by a band around the hat, or a ribbon round the arm, and must have had a nice, bright effect on such a picturesque track, and a more useful index to the riders than the modern ticket number on the back, generally blown upside-down, with the number invisible. Lieut. Tappleton’s writing has not altered much in this space of over twenty-eight years (I did not know it then, but I do now, very well!), and his hand has clearly set forth in the margin of the programme the results of the races – three in number, showing that in the first, Mr. Wardle (H. E. Watson) finished second in the first heat; in the second, Tracy Tupman rode second in the second heat; while in the third, Mr. Pickwick (the Lieutenant himself) won both the first and final heats; and thus finished a (doubtless) very enjoyable meeting – though I expect the gardens were not quitted by the party until a later hour.

On a certain day in this same August, The Western Morning News announces the arrival, at Penzance, of Mr. Pickwick and Mr Tracy Tupman, and gives a detailed account of their travels, prefacing the same with a description of the machines they rode – 45 and 48-inch respectively. The first day’s journey was ninety-six miles, to Salisbury, the last thirty-five of which was ridden in pouring rain. The cathedral and Stonehenge were visited next morning, and forty-one miles, to Yeovil, were done that day. Then proceeding by way of Okehampton, Truro and Bodmin, to Redruth, where they had the new experience of descending the Pead-an-drea mine,. Arriving at Penzance, the travellers visited the Logan Rock and Land’s End, and came to what must have been a welcome halt, at the Western Hotel. They made the following memo of their ride: “Roads fair, scenery beautiful, head wind and wet weather. Average speed, seven miles an hour.” The account concludes with the statement that Messrs. Pickwick and Tupman would take the return journey easy; as, indeed, I think they deserved to, having actually been in the saddle forty-eight hours occupied between start and finish on the ride down.

Tally ho! The boys are busy still; they did not let the grass grow under their feet – or, rather, their wheels – for I find that there was to be a “Bicycle Contest” on September the 3rd, at Willesden (doubtless some long-forgotten and swept-away old track), and six of them entered, headed, of course, by the indefatigable Mr. Pickwick, the others being: Mr. Snodgrass (J. Woolford), Dr. Slammer (C. Forder), Ben Allen (A. Bredee), Tracy Tupman, and Mr. Wardle. Friend Tappleton can give me no information as to this meeting – he remembers that he did not, after all, go himself, and knows not what was done by the others.

On the 10th September there were races at Kennington Oval, under the auspices of the Surrey Bicycle Club, commencing at 6 p.m., “after the cricket match” (of which I have a handbill, and Mr. Pickwick’s competitor’s ticket), the events named being a Four-Mile Handicap, a One-Mile Handicap without hands, and a Hundred Yards Slow Race. As well as Mr. Pickwick, there entered Mr. Snodgrass and Mr. Nupkins. No doubt they did their best to carry the Pickwick Bicycle Club colours to victory, but record hath it not that their attempts were crowned with success, nor gives any other information beyond the entries which I find in the minute book of the period.

Having been on the wheel some little time now, let us get back to the club-room, and we find that the annual election of officers took place on October 10th, when Mr. Pickwick (K. M. Yeoman) was unanimously re-elected Captain for the ensuing season, and Tracy Tupman Sub-Captain. Serjeant Buzfuz was re-elected Hon. Secretary and Treasurer.

The closing meeting of 1873 took place on October 25th, the run being to the Horse and Groom, Woodford Wells, where tea was provided, followed by the usual festive evening.

Later on, a special meeting was called, at which a committee was appointed to make arrangements for the holding of the Annual Dinner – styled on this occasion the “Pickwickian Banquet.” This was held at the Masons’ Tavern.

1874

On January 20th, 1874, the first general committee was formed (this matter had been considered during the previous November), consisting of the officers of the club and three lay members, who should be elected by ballot, the Treasurership being then made a separate office – an election taking place there and then. The true Pickwick modesty here evinced itself, the first member named nominating another, and so on, until there were three candidates in the field, when a poll was taken, with the result that Mr. Snodgrass (J. Woolford) was declared duly elected Treasurer of the Pickwick Bicycle Club for the year ensuing. The selection for the committee fell upon Sam Weller (Mr. W. E. Maverly), Mr. Jingle (J. A. Johnson), Joe, the Fat Boy (T. Bolton); and at the February general meeting a resolution was passed empowering the committee to arrange all the general business of the Club, and to disburse such sums from the Club funds as they might think necessary for that purpose. On March 30th, the committee decided to meet every alternate Monday at nine o’clock, four to form a quorum, providing that one ordinary committee-man were present; and Sam Weller was elected Chairman of Committee for the year.

In April, some correspondence took place with the Middlesex Bicycle Club on the Amateur and Professional question, when the committee of the Pickwick Bicycle Club recorded their opinion that having raced for money prizes should be the only disqualification for a rider racing as an amateur. This question gave rise to much controversy for years, and I do not think has ever been settled to the entire satisfaction of cyclists and athletes at large.

The opening run of this year was on 18th April, to the King’s Head, Chigwell, and each member was to have the privilege of introducing a friend, and all the expenses to be paid out of the Club funds:

At the May meeting there seems to have been a rush for membership, no less than nine candidates being elected, among them Shirley Fussell, hitherto an honorary member, being placed on the active list, and adopting the sobriquet of Count Smorltork, which has since become so very familiar to all members. This sudden incursion evidently created a fear of overcrowding on the part of the old members, so it was decided that after this month the entrance fee should be raised from the modest sum of half-a-crown to five shillings, and, to further secure the selectness of the Club, the following restriction was imposed: “That no member of the Pickwick Bicycle Club should be a member of any other club, without the consent of the committee having been first obtained.”

During this month, a new member, Mr. H. Stanley Thorpe (Tom Smart), did what was in those days a notable ride, an account of which appeared in The Field of May 30th. Leaving Hertford at 3.40 a.m., and proceeding via St. Albans, Dunstable, and Stony Stratford (42 miles, 4 hrs. 35 m.), Towcester, Daventry (64 miles, 7 hrs. 35 m.) to Coventry, arriving at 1.20 p.m., 82 miles in 9 hours, 40 minutes, including stoppages. The return journey was commenced at 2.45 p.m., and Mr. Thorpe arrived home at 2.55 a.m. the following morning, having ridden the 164 miles in 23 hours, 15 minutes, including all stoppages. His machine was a 50-inch “Ariel,” weighing 66 lbs. This was a very fine performance for the time, looking at the weight of machine and condition of the roads, which were not nearly so well kept then as now. No doubt the youth of the present day would laugh consumedly at the rider’s statement that, on nearing home, “he increased his pace, to ten miles an hour”; but no matter, all things have a beginning, and it was such plucky performances as these that stirred other riders to greater deeds afterwards.

It is recorded that in this May, the Club had runs to Epping, Broxbourne, Totteridge, and Dorking. Those in June were to St. Albans, Chipping Ongar, Uxbridge, and Hertford.

A race from London to Ware was arranged for July 4th, there being fifteen entries, including Mr. Pickwick and Tracy Tupman, but Tom Smart (H. S. Thorpe) appears to have been at first shut out by his accidentally having been unable to send his entry in time, a circumstance which gave rise to rather a stormy meeting on July 1st, one party wanting to allow a post entry, and another being strongly opposed to it, the opposition gaining the day, though the matter was relegated to the further consideration of a special general meeting to be held on July 3rd, the evening before the race, at which the question was voted upon again, the previous decision being reversed in favour of Tom Smart.

Ample arrangements were made by the committee for carrying out the race. Of the fifteen entrants, five started from scratch, viz. : – Mr. Pickwick (K. M. Yeoman), Joe, the Fat Boy (T. Bolton), Tracy Tupman (J. Bryant), Mr. Snodgrass (J. Woolford), and Mr. Fogg (A. Hauxwell), the others receiving starts varying from 5 to 35 minutes; the limit man being Master Bardell (J. Pinder). A Mr. Stevenson was starter for the scratch men, and the Captain for the handicapped competitors. Sam Weller and Count Smorltork walked down from London for the occasion, and the Count acted as judge. The prizes were as follows:- First, a silver watch, presented by Messrs. Hartshorn & Baxter; Second, a cup, presented by Mr. Tracy Tupman; and the Third to consist of entry fees for the race, the winner to have the amount in whatever form he desired – but, from previous notes referring to the Amateur Definition, it must be inferred that the prize was not to be in money, but in kind. The result of the race was as follows: – The Rev. Mr. Stiggins (J. Lawson) proved himself a very easy winner, the Second place falling to Joe, the Fat Boy, and the Third to Master Bardell; but as there are no records of the times made, we cannot supply any further particulars. I think it may be taken for granted that a Pickwickian wind-up followed the race.

In The Field of July 18th, appears a very interesting account, written by the Hon. Ion Keith-Falconer, of an attempt made by himself and Tom Smart to ride from Highgate Archway to York, in 24 hours, or less. They started at midnight on July 9th, and “ran along at a fine pace through Barnet (eight miles), which we passed at 12.45.” When near Hitchin, Mr. Thorpe was thrown over the handles, but fortunately, was not much hurt, only contracting some gravel rash. At Wansford (85 miles), Mr Falconer was done up, and had to cry “go,” but Tom Smart stuck to his guns, and went on for another four hours, when, owing to the roads being very dusty, the sun fierce and the wind strong, he had to give up at Grantham, 114 miles. The time was about 14 hours, including stoppages for dinner, etc.. Mr. Thorpe rode a 52-inch “Ariel” (Smith & Starley), and Mr. Falconer a 53-inch “Spider,” by Thomas Sparrow. The latter part of Mr. Falconer’s communications consist of ten items of advice to cyclists, which look rather funny to read now, but which, as they will show the progress of ideas, may be interesting, and I here give them:-

Before starting on a long journey, get a few hours’ sleep.
Knickerbockers are the best things to ride in, and thick boots are better than thin ones.
Bread and milk is one of the best things to take during the journey, being easy of digestion and very nourishing.
Before starting on a journey, see that your saddle is quite straight and firmly fixed; if it is crooked you are sure to get sore.
Lean well forward up the hills and against the wind; I have done a mile in four minutes by attending to this rule.
Lamps are of little use, they rattle, and generally go out when shaken.
Never forget to take a spanner and an oil can with you, however short the journey may be. Those who ride “Coventry Spiders” would do well also to take a pair of gas pliers to tighten the lock nuts, should they become loose.
The best way to rest during a journey is to lie flat on the floor.
If a long ride makes you feel ill the next day, jump on your bicycle and ride a few more miles. “Like cures Like.”
Walk up very stiff hills, and don’t try to see how far you can go without dismounting.

– ION KEITH –FALCONER, The Vicarage, Hitchin.

With reference to the above ride, in a later issue of The Field (August 1st), appears a letter from Mr. Thorpe, stating that it was owing to a second “header” that he had to relinquish his task, his wrist being so badly sprained that he found it impossible to ride further, or he had hopes of being able to do what he set out for, having nine hours left in which to do eighty-seven miles.

The July Club runs were to St. Albans, Abridge, and, on the 25th, to Kennington Oval, to be present at the Surrey Bicycle Club races; the fixture to Watford having been cancelled to allow of that arrangement, some of the Pickwick Bicycle Club boys having entered for an Inter-Club Handicap.

An account of the Surrey Bicycle Club’s Race Meeting appeared in The Field of August 1st, and mention is there made of the presence of Mr. H. S. Thorpe, Mr Bolton and Mr. Yeoman, “all well known as long-distance riders,” and complimentary reference is made to the neatness of the riding-dress of the Pickwick men who competed. The account of the racing is somewhat lax, as the reporter has, in some cases, simply noted, “A member of the Pickwick Club,” such a one taking place in the first heat of the Four-Mile Handicap; though it must have been J. Bryant, on a 54-inch machine, as the second man is afterwards referred to as “Tupman”. It appears from this account that W. Biddlecombe (Solomon Pell), of the “Pickwick,” was also at the same time a member of the “Surrey,” as his name occurs several times as riding for the latter club; he took third place in the first heat; Mr. Pickwick rode in the second heat, but did not score honours; “Two other members of the Pickwick Club” also rode in this heat, but their names come last in the account. In the final heat, it is evidently Tracy Tupman, a member of the Pickwick Bicycle Club (54-inch), who takes third place. The handicap was won by H. Howard, Surrey Bicycle Club with 350 yards start; the time for 3 miles,1,410 yards being 15 m. 56 s., not bad at that date, on the old well-known Oval grass track.

In the Five-Mile Handicap (in one heat), open to members of London Clubs, Joe, the Fat Boy (T. Bolton), came in third.

It may be here incidentally mentioned that at that time a practice appeared to prevail in the Surrey & Middlesex Bicycle Clubs, of racing for the posts of Captain and Sub-Captain; on the above occasion it was a four-mile race, and was won by R. T. Causton, J. H. Sewell taking second honours.

The Club runs for August were to Guildford, Chigwell (the King’s Head), Rickmansworth, Brentwood (the White Hart), and St. Albans (the George).

In September, an invitation was received from the Surrey Bicycle Club to enter for their forthcoming races, but the committee decided not to do so on this occasion.

The runs for September were to Enfield, Loughton, Broxbourne, and Rainham, via Barking.

On October 7th, a meeting took place at headquarters, for the election of officers for the ensuing year, when the following were returned: Captain, Mr. Pickwick (K. M. Yeoman); Sub-Captain, Bill Stumps (W. Addinell); Treasurer, Count Smorltork (S. Fussell); Hon. Secretary, Serjeant Buzfuz (L. C. B. Yeoman). There was quite a brisk competition for Committee places, and out of six candidates the following were elected: Sam Weller (W. E. Maverly), Mr. Fogg (A. Hauxwell), and Master Bardell (J. Pinder). Sam Weller was subsequently elected Chairman of Committee for the year.

At this meeting it was suggested that, as but little riding would be done during the dark evenings, a Winter Social Club should be formed at the Mitford Tavern, to keep the numbers together; and this was referred to the committee for report to a special general meeting. The committee met on the 12th, and after fully discussing the matter, passed the following resolutions:- “That the Pickwick Social Club be opened for the season on Tuesday, October 20th, 1874.” “That the club-room open at 8 p.m., and close at 12 o’clock midnight.” “That the musical evenings be Tuesday in every week.” ”That the officers and committee take charge of the club-room in the following order: October 20th, Sam Weller; 21st, Mr. Fogg; 22nd, Bill Stumps; 23rd, Count Smorltork; 24th, Serjeant Buzfuz; 26th, Mr. Pickwick; 27th, Master Bardell; and that the Hon. Secretary be authorised to purchase cards, chess, draughts, dominoes, and copies of illustrated and other papers for the use of members.”

The recommendations of the committee were duly accepted, and confirmed by the special general meeting, held on the 16th October.

The working of this Social Club was found to be very successful; the usual musical evenings and general amusements being varied at times by a little boxing, and other exercises of a more vigorous kind; and many very pleasant winter evenings were spent at these meetings.

At the October meeting it was proposed by Mr. Tracy Tupman, and seconded by Master Bardell, and carried unanimously, that the Club close the season by holding a dinner at the Masons’ Hall Tavern, City; the arrangements to be left in the hands of the officers and committee; it being afterwards decided by them that the day should be November21st, and the Hon. Secretary to be authorised to guarantee that thirty would sit down. The committee decided to invite Mr. Inwards, of The Field, and Mr. R. T. Causton, captain of the Surrey Bicycle Club, as guests of the Pickwick Bicycle Club.

In the Daily News of October 15th, is a very interesting account of a tour to the English lakes and the Isle of Man, by Messrs. Pickwick, Tracy Tupman, Bill Stumps, and Tom Smart. The journey commenced on the evening of Wednesday, the 16th September, and the party stayed at St. Albans for that night. The next day their destination was Market Harborough, via Dunstable, Woburn, Newport Pagnall, and Northampton. Being caught in a heavy Scotch mist soon after starting, a delay of three hours was caused at Dunstable, where they partook of breakfast, and had to wait while their wet clothes were being dried, being furnished in the meantime with garments by the kindly landlord of the Saracen’s Head; the end of the day’s run was reached at 9 o’clock. The next day (third) to Ashbourn, by way of Leicester, Loughborough, and Derby, where they were royally entertained and refreshed by the ex-mayor; proceeding, their destination was reached at 7 p.m. The fourth day’s ride was to Manchester. Between Leek and Macclesfield our riders had the opportunity of displaying their sporting capacity by racing for six miles against a fine pair of horses in a carriage occupied by three gentlemen, but after the distance named, as the gee-gees could not get away, their driver gave up the contest, and gracefully retired into the rear, and no doubt the “boys” were gratified at the result. No riding appears to have been done on the fifth day (Sunday), and on Monday rain stopped any further progress for the time. On Tuesday, the seventh day, Garstang was reached, and on the following, after a good run, the party reached Bowness on Lake Windermere, where they stayed till the following Friday, during which time visits were made to the other lakes, and places usually inspected by tourists. On Saturday (eleventh day), Douglas, Isle of Man, was reached, where a stay was made till Monday morning, when the party left by boat for Liverpool. At Coventry, on the return journey, a visit was made to Messrs. Haynes & Jeffries extensive “Ariel” Bicycle Works. The route then continued through Dunchurch, Daventry., and Towcester. The last day’s ride was by way of Stony Stratford, Dunstable, and St. Albans; landing the riders back at headquarters at 7.30 p.m., the 1st of October, after a run of 500 miles, accompanied with very few casualties. Bob Sawyer (W. Clarke) appears to have joined the party, though the account does not state where. This tour evidently created much interest in the various towns the riders passed through; there being a special account in a Loughborough paper, under the heading, “Bicycling Extraordinary,” and describing the tourists as being clad in the well-known colours of the Club, purple and silver. The Manx Sun, of October 3rd, not only gives a paragraph on the performance, but actually launches out into a poem of ten four-line verses – a very heroic production.

At the meeting on the 16th October, was elected a member who is in evidence to-day, and has always preserved a strong personality, not infrequently of the combative kind in debate, in the history of the Club. I allude to John W. (Jack) Beningfield (Grummer), now Colonel of the 4th V.B. Essex Regiment; and many a breezy meeting has been participated in by him and Tracy Tupman, another one somewhat given to the “warpath.” Grummer was the third captain of the Club, and the second member President, succeeding W. E. Maverly as such in 1891; he was also the first Worshipful Master of the Pickwick Lodge, No. 2467, which was founded in 1893, by ten old members of the Club. His name will occur again in the course of our story.

A special run was arranged to take place to the Castle, Woodford, on December 12th, wet or dry.

1875

At the general meeting on the 3rd February, 1875, a compulsory “uniform” rule was made, to the effect that each member, when on Club outings, should wear a black cap with amber pipings.

It would appear at this time that the Surrey Bicycle Club were desirous of forming a “Bicycle Association.” And Mr. Howard, the Hon. Secretary of that club, invited the Pickwick Bicycle Club to send delegates to attend a meeting to be convened for that purpose; but this the committee of the Pickwick Bicycle Club resolved not to do.

At the same meeting, the Hon. Secretary was requested to write to Sir C. Reed, one of the Members of Parliament for Hackney, inviting him to accept the Presidency of the Club, but this does not appear to have met with an affirmative response. It was also decided to communicate with the secretary of the Alexandra Palace Company, with a view to using the cycling track in the grounds for race meetings to be promoted by the Club. This was accordingly done, but as the terms offered by the Company were prohibitive, nothing further was done in the matter.

At the general and special meeting on 3rd of March, various alterations were made in the rules, the most important being that candidates for membership should send in their names to the Hon. Secretary to be submitted to the committee, and if all the conditions were satisfactory, that the applicant should be elected by the committee, such election being confirmed by the next general meeting; and this excellent rule still exists.

In March and April, on the initiative of Mr. E. A. Swann (Don Bolaro Fizzgig), a separate Branch of the Club was formed at Woodford, under the following rules:-
“That the branch be governed by all the rules of the Pickwick Bicycle Club, but permitted to finance itself.”
“That a member upon nomination must state to which section of the Club he desires to belong.”
“That each member of the branch shall pay the entrance fee to headquarters, and for each succeeding year the branch shall be responsible for the sum of 2s. 6d., payable in advance, for every such member.”
“That the branch be allowed to send one representative on the committee for every ten members of the branch.”
“That the branch have power to elect all its local officers.”
“That on all Club outings, the branch ride under the command of the captain or his representative from headquarters.”

This new departure was approved by the general meeting held on April 7th, and the branch started under the captaincy of Mr. C. W. Smith (Wilkins Flasher), of Snaresbrook.

The opening run of the season was fixed for Saturday, April 10th, to the King’s Head, Chigwell, to be followed by the usual high tea and musical evening. An invitation was received from the West Middlesex Bicycle Club to join them in a grand meet, which they were organising to take place at Hampton Court, but as this happened to fall on the same day as the Pickwick Bicycle Club opening run, the committee could not see their way to accept the invitation.

It turned out that the weather on the 10th April was very bad, and only two riders met at Hampton Court Gates, and neither of those were wearing the West Middlesex uniform. Also only two Pickwick Bicycle Club men went to Chigwell for the opening run, which tends to show that the weather must have been very bad indeed.

At the general meeting held on April 7th, John Holms, Esq., M.P. for Hackney, was elected the first President of the Club.

The runs for April were:- 10th, Opening; 17th, Woodford, The Castle; 24th, Broxbourne, The Crown.

During this month, it was decided to maintain a permanent club-room through the summer months, in continuation of the winter club, and the landlord of the Mitford Tavern was approached on the subject, and very liberally offered to present the amount received by him for rent to the Club for the purchase of prizes.

At the general meeting on May 5th, the question of holding Club races (presumably track races) was discussed, and it was decided that it was not advisable to make such races open to members of other clubs.

The runs for May were:- 1st, Enfield, The George; 8th, Broxbourne, The Crown; 15th, St Albans, The Peahen; 22nd, Abridge, The White Hart; and the 29th, Ware, The Saracen’s Head; this last being afterwards altered to the Alexandra Park.

On May 24th, the committee discussed the question of having a Tripe Supper, on June 22nd, to celebrate the fifth Anniversary of the Club’s foundation, and instructed the Hon. Secretary to bring the matter before the next general meeting.

The fixtures for June were:- 5th Ware, The Saracen’s Head; 12th, Lambourne End, The Beehive; 19th, Brentwood, The White Hart; 26th, Barnet, The Red Lion.

At the general meeting, on June 2nd, a question was discussed which members thought might have an injurious effect on the amateur status of the Club: that being the fact that Mr. J. Woolford (Mr. Snodgrass) being a manufacturer of cycles, might be considered to rank as a professional, and the Hon. Secretary was requested to give Mr. Woolford formal notice that the matter had been considered by the members, and would be brought forward at the next general meeting. This meeting was held on July 7th, when Mr. Snodgrass was present, and the matter was fully discussed, the meeting being generally of opinion that he was a professional. The chairman asked him whether he was prepared to hand in his resignation, but this he declined to do; whereupon a requisition was at once handed in by Messrs. Pickwick, Grummer, and Bill Stumps, for a special general meeting, to be summoned for Friday, July 16th, for the purpose of officially calling upon Mr. Snodgrass to resign, and in the event of his persisting in not doing so, to bring Rule No. 17 into force.

At the special general meeting, held as above, the Hon. Secretary reported that Mr. Woolford had not sent in his resignation, whereupon it was proposed by Bill Stumps, and seconded by Mr. Pickwick, that Rule 17 be enforced. The voting was by ballot, with the result that the motion was carried by a majority of five votes, and Mr. Woolford ceased to be a member of the Club. In order to show that there was no intention to harshness or ill-feeling in the matter, it was unanimously resolved that a vote of personal appreciation be passed to Mr. Woolford, and that he be presented with a testimonial bearing record of the same.

With regard to Club races, the ideas of the committee appear to have undergone some change, for on June 14th it was proposed to hold a one and a five-mile race, and the Hon. Secretary was instructed to write to the Alexandra Palace Company, and ask whether they would grant the use of their track and subscribe towards an open race or races, to be held towards the end of July; and at a subsequent meeting Serjeant Buzfuz (Hon. Secretary) and Count Smorltork were deputed to interview Mr. Brown, of the Company, upon the subject.

The runs for July were:- 3rd, Brighton, Albion Hotel, starting from Kennington Church at 3 p.m.; 10th, Harlow; 17th, Lambourne End; 24th, Broxbourne, The Crown; 31st. Totteridge.

For August:- 7th, Epping, Thatched House; 14th, Alexandra Park Races; 21st, Southend, meet at headquarters at 3 o’clock; 28th, St Albans.

It was decided by the committee that they should wear Steward’s badges at the race meeting on 14th August, in the form of a shield having a Club device, and at a meeting on August 4th, a letter was read from the Woodford Branch offering to subscribe the sum of three guineas towards the expenses of the meeting. The handicapping for the two Club events took place on August 6th. For the one-mile event, in two heats, there were 26 entries, the scratch men being Messrs. K. M. Yeoman and F. Nisbet, and the limit men Messrs. Larette and Beningfield, each receiving 140 yards start. In the second event, a four-mile handicap in two heats, there were 22 entries; Messrs. H. Smith, Boor, and Nisbet being scratch, and C. P. Bond limit, with 400 yards start.

The outings for September were fixed as follows:- 4th, to Surrey Bicycle Club Races at Kennington Oval; 11th, to London Bicycle Club Races at Lillie Bridge; 18th, Ware, Saracen’s Head; 25th, Chigwell, King’s Head, meeting the Woodford Branch at their headquarters.

At the Surrey Bicycle Club Race Meeting on September 4th, held at Kennington Oval, the following results were placed to the credit of members of the Pickwick Bicycle Club:-

FOUR-MILE OPEN HANDICAP. First Prize, value 12 guineas; Second, value 5 guineas;
Third, value 3 guineas.

First Heat	F. Nisbet, P.B.C.	200 yards start	1
Second Heat	Herbert Smith, P.B.C.	250 yards start	2
Final Heat	Noel Whiting, London B.C.		1
Final Heat	F. Nisbet, P.B.C.		2
	Won by 5 yards. Time, 13m. 36½ s.

On September 6th, Messrs. K.M. Yeoman and Addinell were deputed to attend a meeting being organized by the London Bicycle Club with a view of discussing arrangements for an Amateur Championship race. This meeting was held on the following day at Villiers Street, Strand, the following Clubs being represented:- The London Bicycle Club, Pickwick Bicycle Club, Dark Blue Bicycle Club, St. George’s Bicycle Club, Surrey Bicycle Club, Richmond Bicycle Club, Southsea Bicycle Club, and Tunbridge Wells Bicycle Club. It was then decided to hold a further meeting at the Charing Cross Hotel, on November 16th, at 6 p.m., to arrange for running a Ten-Mile Championship Race, to take place in the month of April, 1876. Mr. G. Warrington, of the St. George’s Bicycle Club, was elected Hon. Secretary for the occasion.

At the London Bicycle Club Race Meeting, held at Lillie Bridge on September 11th, the Pickwick Bicycle Club were represented as follows:-

FIVE-MILE OPEN HANDICAP. First Prize, value £20; Second, value £7; Third, value £3.

The final heat was won by F. Nisbet with 250 yards start, after a magnificent race with Noel Whiting (London B.C.), who received a similar allowance. Herbert Smith was also riding in this race; he ran third in the third heat.

The runs for October were:- 2nd, Enfield, The George; 9th, Chingford, The Bull & Crown; 16th, Abridge, The White Hart; 23rd, Barnet, The Red Lion; and 30th, Woodford, The Castle.

Satisfactory arrangements having been made with the Alexandra Palace Company, the race meeting arranged for the 14th August duly took place, the Company presenting a valuable set of prizes for the Five-Mile Open Handicap.

The officials were:- Referee, Mr. Vandy; Judge, Mr. H.P. Whiting; Starter, Mr. L.C.B. Yeoman; while Mr. G. Brown acted as Clerk of the Course. There were three events:-

CLUB 0NE-MILE HANDICAP. First Prize, value 5 guineas; Second, value 2 guineas;
Third, value 1 guinea.

First Heat.	J.R.F. Wood	50 yards start	1
Second Heat.	Herbert Smith	Scratch	1
Final Heat.	Herbert Smith		1
Final Heat.	H. Matthews		2
Final Heat.	J.R.F. Wood		3
	Time, 3 m. 42 s.

CLUB FOUR-MILE HANDICAP. First Prize, value 10 guineas; Second, value 3 guineas;
Third, value 2 guineas.

First Heat.	Herbert Smith	Scratch	1
Second Heat.	J. Bryant	8 yards start	1
Final Heat.	Herbert Smith		1
Final Heat.	R.G. Lane	250 yards	2
Final Heat.	T.H. Gifford	160 yards start	3
	Time, 16 m.

FIVE-MILE OPEN HANDICAP. First Prize, value 20 guineas; Second, value 7 guineas;
Third, value 3 guineas. All presented by the Alexandra Palace Company.

First Heat.	T.G. Nevill	London B.C.
Second Heat.	R. McKennon	Brighton A.C.	290 yards	1
Final Heat.	R. Taylerson	Surrey B.C.	Scratch	1
Final Heat.	F. Nisbet	Pickwick B.C.	300 yards	2
Final Heat.	H. Osborne	Surrey B.C.	70 yards	3
	Time, 18 m. 30 s.

The election of officers for the ensuing year took place at the general meeting held on the 20th October, with the following results:- President, John Holmes, Esq., M.P., proposed by Count Smorltork, seconded by Serjeant Buzfuz, and unanimously elected; Captain, K.M. Yeoman; Sub-Captain, Mr. W. Addinell; Hon. Secretary, Mr. L.C.B. Yeoman; Treasurer, Mr. Shirley Fussell.

There were 10 candidates for the three seats on the Committee, and of these Mr. C.H. Larette (Mr. Peter Magnus), Mr. W.T. Wilkinson (Mr. Smangle), and Mr. J. Pinder (Master Bardell), were elected. Sam Weller (W.E. Maverly), who had been Chairman of Committee during the previous year, declined to stand again on this occasion, and a hearty vote of thanks was accorded him for his services. Count Smorltork was unanimously elected as Sam Weller’s successor to the chair.
It was decided at a committee meeting, held on October 26th, that the Annual Club Dinner should be held at Masons’ Hall Tavern, on Saturday, November 27th, and the Hon. Secretary was empowered to guarantee (if required) that thirty members would sit down.

The captain of the London Bicycle Club was the guest of the Club on this occasion. Mr. T.B. Yeoman (father of Mr. Pickwick) occupied the chair, with Mr. K.M. Yeoman and W. Addinell in the vice-chairs.

1876

The committee arranged, at a meeting on January 31^st, that a “knife-and-fork tea” should take place at the Castle, at Woodford, on Saturday, March 4^th. A special meeting was held on February 7^th, to consider the question of hiring the Lillie Bridge Grounds on March 11^th, for a race between Mr. E. Tyler, of the Surrey Bicycle Club (late of the Pickwick B.C.), and Mr. F. Nisbet, of the Pickwick Bicycle Club, when it was resolved as follows: “That the Pickwick Bicycle Club take the Lillie Bridge Ground on the occasion of the race “Nisbet v. Tyler,” paying Mr. Chambers (the proprietor) one half of the gate money for the same, the Club giving a prize to the winner, of not less value than £10. Messrs. Larette, Pinder and Nisbet, were deputed to see Mr. Chambers and Mr. Tyler, and make arrangements. At a committee meeting on February 11th it was decided to send two tickets to each of the Sporting papers, and that each member of the committee have a free ticket. The following papers to be presented at the meeting:- The Field, Bell’s Life, Sporting Life, Sportsman, Sporting Gazette, Morning Advertiser, Daily News, and Kingsland Gazette.”

There is no account of this race, for which such elaborate preparations had been made, in The Field, but in a short biography of Mr. Tyler, which appeared in The Bicycling Times of February 27th, 1879, I find the following: “On the 11th March, 1876, at Lillie Bridge, he defeated by 100 yards, F. Nisbet, off the 300 yards mark, Nisbet conceding 180 yards. Time, 13 m. 35 s.” This makes the affair look incomprehensible; but I am indebted to Mr. Tyler himself for the following explanation, given after a lapse of nearly twenty-seven years from the occurrence of the event:- There had been a five-mile handicap, promoted by the St. George’s Bicycle Club, ridden at Lillie Bridge, on 27th October, 1875, and both Mr. Tyler and Mr. Nisbet were qualified to ride in the final heat, but when the time arrived Nisbet did not put in an appearance, and Tyler won the heat. Mr. Nisbet afterwards declared that he had not been notified of the time, and expressed great dissatisfaction with the result, asserting that it would have been otherwise had he been there. The Club stood by their champion, and being desirous of giving him a chance of proving his prowess, arranged a race between the two competitors on handicap terms – Tyler starting from 300 yards mark, and Nisbet from the 120 yards – with the result before stated. Mr. Tyler ascribes his victory to the fact that he kept in training all through the winter, and was riding on the Lillie Bridge track nearly every day.”

February. – A letter from Mr. J. Inwards, of the London Bicycle Club, was received, with reference to a grand meet at some future date, and Messrs. K.M. Yeoman and Addinell were deputed to attend the meeting when called.

The fixtures for April were:- 1^st, Chigwell, The King’s Head (wet or dry); 8^th, Enfield, The George; 15^th, Loughton, The Crown; 22^nd, Waltham (via Chingford), The Railway Hotel; 29^th, Totteridge, The Orange Tree.

On March 20^th, a letter was received from the Surrey Bicycle Club, proposing a joint Club run to Brighton, on Saturday, June 3^rd, and it was decided to accept the invitation – meeting at Kennington Oval at three o’clock p.m., and putting up at the Albion Hotel, at Brighton. I can find no account of this outing, but as it was duly announced in the “fixture” list in The Field, we may assume that it took place, and, of course, in a satisfactory manner, as usual – indeed, it was the only fixture recorded for the month of June, as racing arrangements seem to have occupied the Club mind considerably at this time.

At the above-mentioned committee meeting, the Hon. Secretary was desired to communicate with the Alexandra Park Company, with reference to another race meeting, on or about the last Saturday in June; and to enquire whether the Company would meet the Club in the same manner as they did on the occasion of the meeting last year. A reply was received stating that the Company would offer prizes to the value of £20, but this was not accepted by the Club, and Mr. Fussell and the Hon. Secretary were authorised to arrange another meeting with the Company’s manager. This seems to have taken place successfully, for there is a note recorded on the 26^th April, that “the terms offered by the Alexandra Palace Company be accepted.”

It was resolved to have an Easter outing, leaving headquarters on Good Friday morning, at eight a.m., and making a tour via Cambridge and Oxford, and home again.

At this time the now well-known Club badge – the plain monogram, “P.B.C.” in gold on a cloth back – was instituted, as on the 27^th March the committee ordered that two dozen of the badges should be purchased.

On April 22^nd, there were some bicycle races at the Alexandra Park, promoted by the Company, in which Pickwick Bicycle Club men took part.

The Alexandra Park Amateur Cup (5 miles) was won by the Hon. Ion Keith-Falconer, who reached the tape 300 yards in front of F. Nisbet; time 17 m. 53 s.

In another race (a 5-mile handicap for amateurs), F. Nisbet rode second in the fourth heat. J. Bryant was also riding, but was not placed.

The fixtures for May were:- 6^th Hampton Court Meet; 13^th, Lambourne End, Beehive; 20^th, Hartford, Dimsdale Arms; 27^th, Harlow, The George.

Second Hampton Court Meet. – On the 6^th May, the proposed great meet at Hampton Court took place, the occasion being favoured this time with glorious weather, and a gathering numbering from 400 to 450 cyclists assembled at the Park gates. A preliminary meeting of the captains of clubs was held at the King’s Arms Hotel, too receive the returns of the numbers of each club, and to decide on the order of procession. The “Pickwick,” as the oldest club, was unanimously chosen to take the lead; with the Surrey Bicycle Club second, and so on in order of seniority, and the riders, forming up two abreast, headed by Captain K.M. Yeoman, then started on a circular ride by way of Hampton and Teddington, entering Bushey Park at the end, and creating much admiration by their orderly and smart appearance as they passed along the well-known avenue of chestnuts. The Pickwick did not come first in point of numbers, that honour being reserved for the London Bicycle Club, whose men turned up 72 strong; than came the Pickwick with 47; then the Surrey Bicycle Club, 31; the Temple Bicycle Club, 30; the Wanderers, 16; New Wandsworth, 15; St. George, 14; South London Harriers, 12; Ramblers, 14; Wimbledon Stragglers, 14; North Surrey, 13; Amateurs, 12; Middlesex, 12; Kent, 8; and Sutton Nondescripts, 7; together with many who joined after the numbers were handed in, and several unattached riders. On returning to the starting point, the clubs betook themselves to various hotels in the neighbourhood, where dinners were provided. About eight o’clock the homeward rides were started, and Hampton Court soon resumed its usual quietude; and, to quote the words of The Sporting Life report, “thus was brought to a conclusion, the most successful and largest gathering of cyclists ever held.”

On the 9^th May, the committee decided to recommend that the programme of the proposed race meeting comprise an open race of five miles, and a Club race of four miles. The Club prizes to be: First, value 10 guineas; Second, value 3 guineas; and Third, value 2 guineas. Entrance fee, 2s. 6d.

The Open race prizes: First, value 15 guineas; Second, value 3 guineas; and Third, value 2 guineas. Entrance fee, 2s. 6d.

In The Field, of the 17^th June, there is an account of another ride by Tom Smart (H. Stanley Thorpe), who this time succeeded in riding from London to York within the twenty-four hours. It would seem that Mr. Thorpe had made no less than three previous attempts to accomplish this performance; on the occasion previously recorded in 1874, again in 1875, and yet again a month previously to his successful attempt. He left Highgate Archway at 11.10 on the night of Monday, the 6^th of June, taking the Great North Road now so well known to all northern riders, and reached Hitchin at 1.55 a.m. At 11.15 a somewhat suspicious constable had remarked to him that he was riding “rather late”, and on nearing Hitchin another gentleman in blue, also seemingly suspicious, observed that he was riding “rather early”; however, they did not arrest him, and he went on his way. Proceeding through the various places not now necessary to name, he passed the hundredth milestone (with a shout, the account says) at 9.35 a.m., or 10 h. 25 m. from the start. Near Newark, a dog rushed at the machine and upset the lot, doing some (not serious) damage to the rider, but not to the machine. Continuing, still very game, Mr. Thorpe rode into York at9.40 p.m., on Tuesday, the 7^th June, having ridden the distance of 195 miles in 22½ hours.

The race meeting at Alexandra Park, as previously arranged for, took place on Saturday, June 18^th, and consisted of two events, viz. :- A Four-Mile Club Handicap, which was won by H. Stanley Thorpe, with 230 yards start from F. Nisbet, scratch; and a Five-Mile Open Handicap; the prizes were given by the Alexandra Palace Company. In this, H.S. Thorpe, with 440 yards start, rode second in the final heat. The account of this meeting in The Field is very meagre indeed.

From a note in the committee minute book about this time, it would seem that the Club corns were being trodden on, for the Hon. Secretary was instructed to write to the Ramblers Bicycle Club, respecting their using the Pickwick Bicycle Club colours.

The fixtures for July were:- 1^st, Spartan Sports and Woodford, Castle (no record to be found of these Spartan Sports); 8^th, Hatfield, Red Lion; 15^th, Havering-attet-Bower; 22^nd, High Barnet for Dunstable; 29^th, White Hart, Ongar.

In a minute dated July 1^st, the question was brought forward as to the age of candidates for membership, when it was resolved “That no gentleman be admitted to the Club under the full age of 19 years.”

At a special general meeting on July 12^th, the following proposition was carried by 15 votes to 2:- “That the Club, subject to the approval of the Committee in each case, pay the law costs incurred by any active member in prosecuting any person who shall have assaulted him while riding his bicycle.” This tends to show the march of civilization, and that the day of immediate reprisals in kind had gone by.

At this meeting, also, a rule was passed that signal whistles and bugles may be carried by each member (!) of the Club, but must be used only by the Captain and Sub-Captain, or under their directions (except in cases of emergency), and the following code was adopted:-

To fall in Sound the assembly

To start The advance

Single file Commence firing

Two abreast The extend

To ride easy March at ease

Dismount Halt

Tea call The dinner call

The fixtures for August were:- 5^th, Headquarters 4 p.m., for Southend; 12^th, High Barnet, for Hitchin; 19^th, meet Surrey Bicycle Club at headquarters, for Chigwell; 26^th, Headquarters 4 p.m., for Hendon.

Runs for September:- 2^nd, Brentwood, White Hart; 9^th, Epping, Thatched House; 16^th, Waltham, via Chingford, Railway Hotel; 23^rd, Abridge, White Hart; 30^th, Woodford, Castle.

On the 4^th September, the committee decided to cease subscribing to The Field and Bell’s Life, and to subscribe to the Bicycle Journal instead, the back numbers to be purchased.

At the general meeting on September 6^th, arrangements were discussed for meeting in town to attend the West Kent Bicycle Club race meeting at the Crystal Palace.

From a minute of this meeting, it appears that a Mr. Gee had taken legal proceedings against one Mr. Parsons, the driver and probably proprietor of the St. Albans coach, for assault, and had been successful in the same; and the Pickwick Bicycle Club passed a vote of congratulation to him on his public-spirited action, and offered to subscribe to any fund for the purpose of reimbursing him, should he have suffered any pecuniary loss. In The Field of September 9^th, there appears an account of this affair, and it will serve to show the feelings of bitter animosity with which riders of cycles were regarded by drivers of horses. It would seem that Mr. Gee and a friend, Mr. Mitchell, were overtaking the coach, which when Mr. Parsons discovered, he commenced driving across and across the road to prevent Gee passing, and in addition, laid into him with his whip; but the guard of the coach was worse still, for this diabolical miscreant was armed with a murderous weapon, consisting of an iron ball attached to the end of a cord, intended no doubt for the destruction of cyclists in general, to be cast at passing machines and catch their wheels, and upset them and their riders, being utterly reckless as to probable fatal consequences of such an act. He tried his skill upon Mr. Gee, but without success. Mitchell, however, was more unfortunate; the ball went between the spokes, and he and his machine were hurled to the ground, and both dragged along for some distance. Mr. Gee succeeded in getting the coach stopped, and took names and addresses, and in due course the delinquents were haled before the county magistrate at Hertford, with the result that Mr. Parsons was fined £2 and costs, and the guard fined £5; and Mr. Parsons said he would give Mr. Mitchell £10 for damage done to himself and his machine.

During this month there was what ought to have been a grand meeting at the Crystal Palace, promoted by the West Kent Bicycle Club, but which unfortunately turned out a miserable failure, owing to the insubordination of the riders attending it. I have before me a letter from Mr. Henry Coppin, the captain of the West Kent Bicycle Club, addressed to Mr. Pickwick, bearing date October 7^th, 1876, in which he says – “I wish to thank you personally, and through you, every gentleman who attended that meeting under your command, for the very excellent manner in which you carried out the instructions I sent you, and I beg to assure you that henceforth the Pickwick Bicycle Club will be my beau ideal of a Bicycle Club …..My troubles commenced early, for not another Club but yours fell in and dressed properly, and, busy as I was, I could not but admire the military style and order in your ranks – the secret lies here: the Pickwick Bicycle Club knows both how to command and how to obey.”

This is interesting as showing the different methods appertaining to Club organization in those times and the present.

The fixtures for October were: – 7^th, Surrey Bicycle Club Race Meeting at Kennington Oval; 14^th, Chigwell, King’s Head; 21^st, Barnet, Red Lion; 28^th, Snaresbrook, The Eagle.

The election of officers for the ensuing year took place on the 4^th of October, with the following results:-

President, John Holms, Esq., M.P., unanimously elected:

Captain, Mr. K.M. Yeoman, ditto.

Sub-Captain, Mr. J.W. Beningfield, ditto.

Treasurer, Mr. Shirley Fussell, ditto.

Hon. Secretary, Mr. L.C.B. Yeoman, ditto.

There were eight candidates for the three seats on committee, and of these the following were elected:- Messrs.J. Bryant, C.H. Larette, and John Nixon.

On the 16^th October, Count Smorltork was elected Chairman of Committee for the year. It was decided to subscribe to the Bicycling News, as well as the Bicycling Journal.

On October 23^rd, arrangements were made for holding the seventh Annual Dinner at Anderton’s Hotel, on Saturday, December 2^nd, the following guests to be invited:- Mr. H.P. Whiting (London B.C.), Mr. J. Inwards, of the Bicycling News, Mr. Howard, of the Bicycling Journal, and the captains of the Surrey, London, and West Kent Bicycle Clubs, and the captain and hon. secretary of the Temple Bicycle Club.

The dinner was duly held as arranged, with Sam Weller (Mr.W.E. Maverly) in the chair, and Messrs. Pickwick, Tracy Tupman, and Grummer in the vice-chairs.

At the above meeting, the committee decided to change the headquarters to the Farleigh Hotel, Amhurst Road, Hackney, owing to the landlord of the Mitford Tavern not agreeing to allow the Club to use their usual winter clubroom. This decision was very promptly acted upon, as the committee adjourned there and then to the Farleigh Hotel, and engaged a room there suitable to their requirements. On 1^st November, at the general meeting, they brought up a report upon their action in removing the headquarters which was unanimously adopted.

Invitations for two having been received from the Temple Bicycle Club, to their dinner, Messrs. Pickwick and Grummer were selected to represent the Club.

At the general meeting, 6^th December, Sam Weller was unanimously elected Vice-President of the Club, and a special vote of thanks given him for his services, and the able manner in which he had fulfilled the duties of the Chair at the dinner on the 2^nd inst.

The weather at this time being unfit for cycling, a walk to the Castle, at Woodford, was arranged for Saturday, the 9^th December.

At a meeting on 19^th December, it was decided to adopt the use of ivory club buttons, with the letters “P.B.C” on same in Old English – these buttons are supposed still to be used by Club riders. It was also resolved that a division of the Club, under the command of the Sub-Captain, Mr. J.W. Beningfield, be formed at the Osborne Tavern, Stroud Green Lane, N:, for the convenience of members residing in that locality; The division to meet the Club as appointed by the committee.

1883

“Tempus omnia mutat” It seems worth recording that, on the 1^st January in this year, a letter was received from the Stanley Bicycle Club, asking permission to state that their Annual Bicycle Show was under the patronage of the Pickwick Bicycle Club. The application was granted.

A smoking concert was held on the 18^th January, under the management of Messrs. Beningfield, H. Scriveneer, and Duesbury.

On the 16^th January, it was decided to again enter a tug-of-war team for the Canonbury Bicycle Club competition. Arrangements left in the hands of Mr. H. Scrivener, Captain. The committee supper was fixed for the 22^nd.

At the annual general meeting, on January 29^th, the following were elected to office for the ensuing year:- Vice-Presidents, Messrs. W.E. Maverly and J. Bryant; Captain, Mr. J.W. Beningfield; Sub-Captain, Mr. T.J. Boulter;Treasurer, Mr. C.T. Scrivener; Secretary, Mr. Shirley Fussell; Committee, Messrs. J. Nixon (32), H. Scrivener (32), G.T. Clough (30), H. Duesbury (29), O. Riehmer (27).

On the 26^th February, a smoking concert was held at headquarters, under the presidency of Mr. T.J. Boulter. The names of Messrs. H. Mann and H.A. Jacobs appear, among others, as contributors to the harmony of the evening.

On March 2^nd, a meeting was held at the Guildhall Tavern, to consider the advisability of holding another Hampton Court Meet. Mr. J.W. Beningfield was elected Chairman, and Mr. S. Fussell, Secretary. It was decided to hold another meet on 19^th May.

Opening Run, March 10^th.- This appears to have been a very successful function The weather was very inclement, but over eighty members and friends assembled at the Forest Hotel, Chingford, under the chairmanship of the Captain. A capital musical programme was provided, but no details are given, beyond a reference to the excellence of Mr. W.G. Churcher’s recitations. It is recorded that, being Mr. Hayter Scrivener’s birthday, his health was drunk with musical honours. I notice the name of Mr. Robert Todd as among the visitors.

The other runs for March were arranged as follows:- 23^rd to 26^th, Easter tour to Bournemouth, 31^st, circular run to the George, Woodford – this outing was attended by eleven members.

On March 12^th, Sam Weller was unanimously elected Chairman of Committee for the ensuing year.

Easter Tour. – Eighteen members started from Kew Bridge on Good Friday morning, this number being afterwards increased to twenty-four. The first day’s ride was to Winchester; the next through the New Forest to Bournemouth; on Sunday to Southampton, via Christchurch and Lyndhurst; on Easter Monday the route lay through Guildford and Esher to Richmond Station. The weather was fine up to the last day; but then, unfortunately, the riders encountered two snow storms and got wet through. The account concludes by stating that the tour was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

At the general meeting on 25^th March, it was resolved that at the end of each year two prizes be presented – one to the member who has attended most runs, and one to the member who has ridden the longest distances in one day; and if that distance exceed 180 miles the rider should have the silver medal of the Club.

The runs for April were:- 7^th, Goff’s Oak (twelve attended); 14^th, Epping (sixteen attended); 21^st, Lambourne End; 28^th, Essendon.

For May 5^th, South Weald (fifteen attended); 12^th, Independent runs; 19^th, Abridge; 26^th, Brentwood.

Ninth and last Hampton Court Meet, May 19^th. – This meet was held in fine weather, but the idea seemed to be flagging by this time, as the absence is noted of such important clubs as the Temple, London, Stanley, Surrey and others, and the question was freely mooted as to whether the show was now played out. There were a hundred Metropolitan clubs represented, numbering 1,122 riders, 34 Provincial clubs with 211 riders, 31 Tricyclists and 45 unattached, making a grand total of 1,409 riders.

The runs for June were:- 2^nd, Ridge Hill; 9^th, Race Meeting at the Crystal Palace; 16^th, Havering-atte-Bowe (six attended); 23^rd, Ongar; 30^th, Brighton (sixteen members and friends attended).

On June 9^th there was a race meeting at the Crystal Palace. The account in Bicycling News commences as follows:- “In glorious weather, with scarcely a breath of wind blowing, this important and ancient club brought off it’s annual race meeting last Saturday at the Crystal Palace. A large and fashionable attendance assembled, and the meeting was a thorough success from first to last.”

The first event was a Half-Mile Invitation Scratch Tricycle Race, which was won by C.E. Liles in 1m. 38s.

The Club Twenty-five Miles Championship was won by S. Kemp; J. Horn second; and A. Fisher third. Won by 25 yards; time1 h. 28 m. 50 s.

ONE-MILE OPEN HANDICAP

Final Heat.

E.G. Frost, Brixton Ramblers B.C., 120 yds. 1

E.M. Mayes, Centaur B.C. 120 yds 2

M.H. Hay, Queen’s B.C. 55 yds 3

Won by 6 inches, a foot between second and third; time 2 m. 46 s.

The officials were:- Judge, G. Lacy Hillier; Starter, Hayter Scrivener; Handicapper and Timekeeper, G.P. Coleman.

National Cyclists’ Union, June 14^th. – It will doubtless be of interest to our older members to note here that, at a meeting of the Bicycle Union held on 14^th of June, it was proposed by Mr. R. Todd, and seconded by Mr. J.W. Beningfield, “That owing to the large number of Tricyclists who are members, the name of this body be changed to “The National Cyclists’ Union.” This was also supported by Messrs. G. Lacy Hillier, A.J. Wilson and Sellars. Various other titles were proposed, but Mr. Todd’s motion was carried by a large majority.

The runs from July to October, inclusive, were as follows:- July 7^th, Essendon (nine attended); 14^th, Brentwood; 21^st, Picnic in Epping Forest:- there is no account to be found of this outing, if it took place; 28^th, Hertford.

August – 4^th, Independent runs over Bank Holiday; 11^th, Ridge Hill; 18^th, Epping; 25^th, Upminster (seven attended).

September – 1^st, Goff’s Oak; 8^th, St. Margarets; 15^th, Stapleford Tawney; 22^nd, Potters Bar; 29^th, Lambourne End.

October – 6^th, Chigwell (four attended); 13^th, circular run, tea at the George, Woodford; 20^th, Abridge; 27^th, Chingford.

At a committee meeting held on the 25^th June, it was resolved that a Club race meeting be held at the Alexandra Park, on Wednesday, the 18^th July, with the following events:-

A ONE-MILE HANDICAP (for members who have never won a prize). Two prizes.

A ONE-MILE HANDICAP (open to all members). Two prizes.

The committee arranged for the second Wednesday in September to be a programme night, at the George, Woodford.

At the general meeting on September 5^th, the prizes for the Senior and Junior handicaps, held on the 18^th July, were presented as follows:-

Junior – First Prize, D.H. Kidd. Second, H.V. Smith.

Senior – First Prize, D.H. Kidd. Second. H. Scrivener.

Closing run, October 27^th, to the Forest Hotel, Chingford. This was attended by 82 members and friends, and a very successful musical evening held. The ride home had to be done in dense fog.

November 7^th, General Meeting. – Messrs. Beningfield, Bryant, Boulter and Riehmer, were elected to act as stewards at the forthcoming annual dinner, and the following invitations to be issued: A National Cyclists’ Union representative, Mr. C.E. Liles or some other representative racing man; and two representatives of the bicycling press.

November 26^th. – It was resolved to award Mr. Raybould the long-distance medal, he having ridden 180 miles in 24 hours.

The Hon. Secretary was directed to offer the Presidency of the Club to Sir Thomas Dakin.

The fourteenth Annual Dinner was held at the London Tavern on Saturday, December 8^th, with Mr. J.W. Beningfield (Captain) in the chair. Between 80 and 90 members sat down, and a thoroughly enjoyable evening was spent. I find here the first mention of the performance of our late lamented friend, Sam Wright, also of Pruffle (E.B. Thompson); and the recitations of W.G. Churcher and H. Mann are referred to in complimentary terms.

1884

At the annual general meeting, held on January 28^th, the following members were elected to fill the various offices for the ensuing year:- Vice-Presidents, Messrs. W.E. Maverly and J. Bryant; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, H.C. Hill; Treasurer, S. Fussell; Hon. Secretary, H. Duesbury; Committee, O. Riehmer (31), G.T. Clough (28), H. Mann (24), H. Scrivener (21), and W. Gamble (21).

At this meeting the question of the Hampton Court Meet was discussed, and the following resolution passed: “That in the opinion of this meeting, it is not advisable for the Club to attend the Hampton Court Meet should one be held this year.” After this there followed what appears to be a very curious proceeding. On the 2^nd of February the committee decided to send out the usual circular to the metropolitan clubs convening a meeting to consider the question, and later Mr. Beningfield was deputed to represent the Club at the meeting, but to retire from active participation in the same, after stating the reasons for the Club’s decision not to attend another meet. The meeting was held on 14^th March at the London Tavern, and was attended by Mr. Boulter, when the following resolution was passed: “That the meet be not again held.” Thus the predictions caused by last year’s proceedings were fully realised.

A smoking concert was held at headquarters on the 4^th February, under the management of Messrs. Boulter and H. Scrivener.

On 6^th February, Mr. W.E. Maverly was elected Chairman of Committee for the year.

At the same meeting it was resolved to hold four monthly handicaps at the Alexandra Park, on the following Wednesday:- 28^th May, 25^th June, 30^th July, and 27^th August; the distance two miles. The prizes in the first three to be – First, of the value of £3; Second, value 10s.; and in the fourth, of the value of £2 and £1 respectively.

The runs for March were:- 15^th, Opening run to Forest Hotel, Chingford; 22^nd, circular run to the George, Woodford (nine attended); 29^th, Epping, Thatched House (eight attended).

Opening Run – Twelve members rode to the Forest Hotel, Chingford, via Snaresbrook and Woodford. Many members and friends went by train, and 94 sat down to a well-served tea. A smoking concert followed, at which an excellent programme of music and recitations was gone through, and a thoroughly enjoyable evening spent.

The runs for April were:- 5^th, Goff’s Oak; 11^th to 14^th, Easter Tour; 19^th, Havering-atte-Bower, Orange Tree (eleven attended); 26^th, Essendon, Salisbury Crest.

Easter Tour. – Twenty-two members and five visitors attended. The start on Good Friday morning was from Kew Bridge, through Kingston to Ripley and Guildford, where lunch was taken, then through Godalming and Hazlemere to Midhurst, where the night was passed. On Saturday the route lay through Petersfield and East Meen to Southampton for lunch at the Crown, then to Cadnam Bridge and Newton to Salisbury for the night. This being the 51^st birthday of Nathaniel Pipkin, after dinner his health was proposed by the Captain and enthusiastically drank by the company, Mr. Pipkin responding in a graceful speech. On Sunday a visit was paid to Stonehenge, where an interesting description of the antiquities was obtained from the keeper. Lunch was taken at Andover, and then the ride continued through Whitchurch to Basingstoke, the party staying for the night at the Red Lion. On Monday the ride back was to Kew Station, via Virginia Water and Staines. Train taken to Dalston Junction, where the members separated, having spent a thoroughly enjoyable holiday.

On the 21^st April, Mr. Clough was appointed sole handicapper for the Club events.

The Brixton Bicycle Club having invited the Club to send a member to compete in their Open Mile event on 10^th May at the Crystal Palace, the invitation was accepted, and Mr. Mann was elected to represent the Pickwick Bicycle Club.

The runs for May were:- 3^rd, Abridge, White Hart (eight attended); 10^th, Mill Hill, Adam and Eve (fourteen attended); 17^th, Lambourne End (twelve attended); 24^th, Ongar; 31^st, Ridge Hill, for Dunstable.

The Sub-Captain (H.C. Hill) undertook to arrange a Whitsuntide run, via Dunstable and Oxford.

May 19^th. – It was decided that a smoking concert be held at the George, Woodford, on the second Wednesday in each month, and that two committee men attend on the intermediate Wednesdays to receive any members meeting there on those evenings. Time of meeting, 8 p.m.; the first “smoker” to be on June 11^th.

On June 2^nd, Messrs. Clough and Boulter each rode 101½ miles in the day, and on the same date Mr. W.E. Maverly rode 106 miles on a Humber tricycle.

The runs for June were:- 7^th, Chigwell, King’s Head; 14^th, St. Margarets, Pied Piper (seven attended); 21^st, Race Meeting, Crystal Palace; 28^th and 29^th, Chelmsford, Dunmow and Bishop’s Stortford.

The race meeting fixed for the 21^st duly took place, and included a One-Mile Open Handicap, with the following prizes:- 1^st, a Tea Set, value £9 15s.; and , a Silver Tankard, value £4 10s.; 3^rd, Dessert Spoons, value £2 2s.. Also a One-Mile Open Tricycle Handicap, with the following prizes:- 1^st, a Claret Jug, value £5 10s.; and, a Sugar Basin and Sifter, value £3 3s.; 3^rd, Half-pint Tankard, value 18s..

There is but a very brief reference in Bicycling News to this meeting, all the reporter’s energies being engaged in recording the results of the N.C.U. Championships, which took place on the same day.

The meeting resulted in a loss to the Club of £27.

There is no special account of the “smoker” held on June 11^th.

The runs for July were:- 5^th, South Weald, Tower Arms; 12^th, Purfleet; 19^th, Harlow, the George; 26^th, Goff’s Oak.

It is stated in the Monthly Circular, dated June 25^th, that the June handicap was won by A. Fisher; D.H. Kidd being second.

On the 6^th August (General Meeting), a lengthy set of rules for the regulation of long-distance rides was discussed, but the matter being too long for one evening, a special general meeting was held on the 14^th August, when the discussion was continued and the rules passed.

The runs for August were:- 2^nd, Independent; 9^th, Brentwood, White Hart; 16^th, Ridge Hill, Waggon and Horses; 23^rd, North Ockendon; 30^th, Essendon, Salisbury Crest.

On August 13^th, a “smoker” was held at the George, Woodford, under the management of Mr. H. Scrivener.

The result of the July handicap was:- J.B. Pullin, 1; A. Fisher, 2.

The runs for September were:- 6^th, Hertford; 13^th, Havering-atte-Bower; 20^th, Stanmore; 27^th, Ongar.

The August handicap was won by E.J. Tatum, with 600 yards start; H.W. Tatum, 400 yards, second.

During September, Mr. G.T. Clough rode 200½ miles in 24 hours, and gained the Club gold medal; his course being Stratford to Eye and back, via Chelmsford and Ipswich, and afterwards Stratford to Loughton and back.

The runs for October were:- 4^th, Epping; 11^th, circular run to the George, Woodford; 18^th, closing run to Chingford.

Fifth Headquarters. – At the general meeting on the 8^th October, it was decided to leave the headquarters at the Albion, Stoke Newington, where they had been since September, 1877, and remove to the Excise Tavern, Old Broad Street, E.C..

At the closing meeting at the Forest Hotel, Chingford, in the absence, through illness, of the Captain, the chair was taken by Mr. W.E. Maverly; 110 members and friends sat down to tea, and a very enjoyable musical evening followed.

In the monthly Circular, dated 31^st October, the following long-distance rides are recorded:- 3^rd and 4^th, J.W. Raybould, 177 miles; 5^th, H.W. Tatum, 186 miles; 4^th and 5^th, W.J. Hunter, 182½ miles.

At the committee meeting on 17^th November, it was reported that the Sub-Captain, H.C. Hill, had won the attendance at runs prize, with 58 points; J. Atto being second.

At this meeting a very useful rule was passed, viz., that any member not attending committee should pay a fine of one shilling; and any member leaving before 8 o’clock, unless the business was concluded, should pay a similar fine, the proceeds to be expended on a committee supper at the end of each season.

The fifteenth Annual Dinner was held at the London Tavern on the 6^th December, and was attended by about 100 members and friends, among whom were many distinguished visitors of the Club. The Captain, Mr. T.J. Boulter, occupied the chair, and the gathering was an unqualified success. There is a very full account of the proceedings in Bicycling News of the 12^th December. The writer may perhaps be pardoned for here recording the fact that this was his first Pickwick Bicycle Club dinner, as the guest of Pruffle; he joined the Club at the next general meeting, and has not missed the Club Dinner once since.

1885

At the annual general meeting held on the 19^th January, the following members were elected to fill the various offices for the ensuing year:- Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Maverly and Bryant; Captain, Mr. T.J.Boulter; Sub-Captain, Mr. H.C. Hill; Treasurer, Mr. S.Fussell; Hon. Secretary, Mr. H. Duesbury. Committee: Messrs. G.T. Clough, 43; H. Scrivener, 37; O. Riehmer, 36; W.J. Hunter, 31; W.C. Docking, 23.

Messrs. Maverly, Beningfield and Gamble were elected delegates to represent the Club at the National Cyclists’ Union.

The resignation of Mr. W.G. Churcher was accepted with much regret.

Owing to the great loss to the Club on the last race meeting at the Crystal Palace, it was now decided that “the time has arrived when to discontinue the annual race meeting would not affect the prestige or position of the Club”

On January 21^st, a smoking concert was held at Masons’ Hall Tavern, under the management of Captain T.J. Boulter and W. Gamble.

On January 26^th, Mr Maverly was elected Chairman of Committee for the year.

Messrs. Clough, Raybould, H.W. Tatum, Fussell and Beningfield were elected a committee to revise the rules of the Club.

On January 29^th, it was decided to hold three monthly handicaps during the season, at the Alexandra Park: on May 20^th, June 17^th, and July 15^th; one condition, that no machine ridden shall weigh less than 40lbs. The meetings to be under the management of Messrs. Fussell and Duesbury.

The opening run took place on March 21^st, to the Forest Hotel, Chingford, and was a great success. About one hundred and ten members and friends sat down to tea, after which there was an excellent musical programme gone through, which was much enjoyed by all. The Club invitations included Messrs. Leslie, of the London Scottish B.C.; Tomkins, Surrey B.C.; and Woodin, of the Rovers B.C.; also Messrs. Griffin and Lacy Hillier, and representatives of The Referee and the Field.

The runs for April were:-

Easter Tour – Good Friday, 4^th April. Train taken to Kew Station, arriving there 9.47, then to Richmond, Kingston and Dorking to Horsham, for lunch at the King’s Head, 33½ miles. After, via Southwater, West Grinstead, &c., to Littlehampton; dinner and bed at the Terminus Hotel – 56 miles for the day.

Saturday, 5^th. From Littlehampton to Bognor, Chichester and Havant, 21 miles. Lunch at the Dolphin, thence to Cosham, Porchester, Fareham, &c., to Southampton – 42 miles for the day. Dine and sleep at the Crown.

Sunday, 6^th. From Southampton to Millbridge, Lyndhurst and Cadnam Bridge to Romsey, 17½ miles. Lunch at White Horse, then to Amfield and Pitt Pond to Winchester, 28¼ miles for the day. Dine and sleep at Black Swan.

Easter Monday, 7^th. From Winchester to King’s Worthy, Basingstoke, &c., to Blackwater, 32½ miles. Lunch at the White Hart, thence to Bagshot, Staines and Hounslow to Kew, where train was taken to Dalston Junction.

I have no account of how this tour was carried out, but, given fine weather, it should have been a most enjoyable holiday, from the route taken.

April 11^th, Goff’s Oak; 18^th, Epping; 25^th, Mill Hill.

The runs for May:- 2^nd, Abridge; 9^th, Havering-atte-Bower; 16^th, Shenley; 23^rd, Whitsun Tour; 30^th, Brentwood.

The Whitsun Tour, arranged in conjunction with the Surrey Bicycle Club, was as follows:- 23^rd May, meet the Surrey Bicycle Club at Greyhound, Croydon, at 4 p.m., and ride to Brighton; 24^th, Brighton to Portsmouth; 25^th, Portsmouth to Kew.

The first Smoker, at the George, Woodford, was held on the 13^th May.

The May monthly handicap, postponed from the 20^th to 27^th on account of wet weather, was won by Mr. H.C. Hill (Sub-Captain), Mr. H.V. Smith being second.

At the general meeting on 3^rd June, Sir W.T. Charley was elected President of the Club.

On the 10^th June a Smoker was held at the George, Woodford, under the management of Messrs. Clough and W.J. Hunter.

The runs for June were:- 6^th, St. Margarets; 13^th, Ongar; 20^th, Essendon; 27^th, Ridge Hill.

The monthly handicap, on 17^th June, was won by Mr. W.J. Hunter; Mr. H.C. Hill (Sub-Captain) second.

There was a Smoker at the George, Woodford, on 8^th July.

The runs for July were: 4^th, Brentwood; 11^th, Purfleet; 18^th, Langdon Hill; 25^th, Hertford.

On the 9^th July, the Club Championship was raced for at the Crystal Palace, being won by F.J. Nicolas; H. Mann and W.J. Hunter obtaining time medals. The committee had further arranged for an Open One-Mile Handicap, which was won by M.J.V. Webber, who therein beat the one-mile record, his time being 2 m. 39¾ s., the previous best being 2 m. 41¼ s. The Club awarded Mr. Webber the gold medal for this performance. Mr G. Lacy Hillier acted as judge at the above meeting.

The monthly handicap, on the 26^th August, was won by W.J. Hunter; H.W. Tatum second.

During the month of September the following twenty-four hours rides were performed:- H.C. Hill, 222 miles (gold medal); H.W. Tatum, 217 miles (silver medal); W.J. Hunter, 120½ miles; C.H. Cole, 207 miles (facile bicycle).

The runs for October were:-3^rd, Lambourne End; 10^th, Epping; 17^th, Waltham Cross; 24^th, Abridge; 31^st (closing run), Chingford.

There was a Club walk on Saturday, November 7^th, starting from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, at 3.30; eleven attended.

There was also another walk in November, which fourteen members attended.

Sixth Headquarters. – On December 1^st, the headquarters were removed from the Excise Tavern to the Orion Gymnasium, Casterton Street, Hackney.

The sixteenth Annual Dinner was held at the London Tavern on December 5^th, under the presidency of Sir William Charley, ninety members and friends sat down, and a thoroughly enjoyable evening was spent. During the proceedings, the Championship Cup was presented to Mr. Nicolas, and time medals to Messrs. H. Mann and W.J. Hunter; the gold medal was presented to Mr. M.J.V. Webber, for breaking the one-mile record at the Club’s race meeting in July.

A Club walk took place on Boxing Day under the leadership of Mr. W.E. Maverly, starting from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, at 11 a.m., lunch at the Tower Arms, South Weald, tea at the King’s Head, Chigwell.

1886

At the general meeting held on January 13^th, the following members were elected to fill the various offices for the ensuing season:- President, Sir William Charley, Q.C.; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. W.E. Maverly and J. Bryant; Captain, Mr. T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, Mr. H. Mann; Treasurer, Mr. Shirley Fussell; Hon. Secretary, Mr. H. Duesbury; Committee, Messrs. G.T. Clough (24), W.E. Blake (22), C.H. Cole (20), H.W. Tatum (18), and H.L. Clarke (16).

On the 30th January, a Club walk took place from Hendon, under the leadership of the Hon. Secretary, Mr. H. Duesbury.

On the 6^th February, a Cinderella Dance was held at the Manor Rooms, Hackney, and was much enjoyed by a numerous company.

On the 8^th March, a Smoker was held at headquarters under the management of the Sub-Captain, Mr. H. Mann.

The opening run to the Forest Hotel, Chingford, took place on the 20^th March; eighty members and friends attended, and it was a very successful gathering.

Easter Tour, 23^rd to 26^th April:- Twenty-one members and friends attended and had a most enjoyable outing. The start on Good Friday morning was from the Eagle, Snaresbrook to Tilbury, where the river was ferried over to Gravesend, thence via Cobham Park to the Leather Bottle, at Cobham (the proprietor of which for many years past has been our old member A.J. Smith (Horatio Fitzkin, Esq.), where lunch was taken; then passing through Snodland, Aylesford, Berstead and Lenham, the night was passed at the Swan, at Charing. On Saturday the route lay through Pluckley, Tenterden, &c., and lunch was taken at the Swan at Appledore, then via Rye, Winchelsea and Guistling to Hastings, where dinner and bed were found at the Pier Hotel. On Sunday to Hurst Green for lunch at the George, then through Ticehurst, Wadhurst and Frant to Tunbridge Wells for the night. On Easter Monday by Tonbridge to Sevenoaks for lunch, then to Riverhead, Orpington, St. Mary’s Cray, &c., to Eltham, where tea was taken at the Greyhound, after which the river was re-crossed to Woolwich, and the return made to the Eagle, Snaresbrook, where the tour terminated. It is worthy of note that, for this occasion, a most interesting descriptive tour card was issued, which reflects great credit on the Captain and Sub-Captain, and should have been worth carefully preserving by all those who took part in the tour.

The runs for May were:- 1^st, Mill Hill; 8^th, Havering-atte-Bower; 15^th, Barnet – an inter-club run with the London Scottish and Rovers; 22^nd, Alexandra Park (Cycling Tournament); 29^th, Ongar; sleep at Rayleigh, and ride on to Southend next day.

It was decided not to hold an open race meeting this year.

The runs for June were:- 5^th, Shenley; 12^th, Whitsun Tour with Surrey Bicycle Club; 19^th, St. Margarets; 26^th, Road Competition, Barnet to Dunstable.

The course for the above race was about 20 miles, and there were four prizes: the first, value £2; second, value £1; third, 10 s.; and a special prize, value one guinea, for the rider making fastest time: The race to be under the management of Messrs. Fussell and Duesbury. There were 23 entries, J.H. Pullin being scratch man, and Raymond Clarke limit with 40 minutes allowance. The result was as follows:-

T.J. Boulter, 15 m. start 1 net time, 1 h. 36 m. 45 s.

A.J. Smith 22 m. start 2 net time, 1 h. 44 m. 20 s.

H. Kirkham 19 m. start 3 net time, 1 h. 41 m. 37 s.

W.J. Hunter 1 m. start, took the fastest time prize with 1 h. 34 m. 3 s.

Twenty-nine members sat down to dinner at Dunstable, and a regular Pickwickian evening was spent. The next day most of the riding members returned to town via, St. Margarets, dining at the Pied Bull on the way.

At the beginning of July, Mr. J.R. Hudston rode 144 miles in 24 hours on a tricycle, qualifying for the Club’s bronze medal.

A tour, arranged to start on Saturday, 31^st July, and extend over the August Bank Holiday, had for its route; Starting from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, at 3.30 p.m., to North Woolwich, and ferry across the river, and then ride via Eltham, Chislehurst and Keston, to Westerham. On Sunday, via Godstone and Redhill to Dorking, for lunch; then by Gomshall and Albury to Guildford. On Monday, ride home from Guildford.

The runs for August were:- 7^th, Essenden; 14^th, Brighton (Inter-club run with Surrey Bicycle Club); 21^st, Harlow; 28^th, St. Margarets.

In August, the Captain (Mr. Boulter) rode 188½ miles in 24 hours.

The runs for September were:- 4^th, Stanmore; 11^th, Havering-atte-Bower; 18^th, Goff’s Oak; 25^th, Ridge Hill.

For October:- 2^nd, Cheshunt; 9^th, Abridge; 16^th, Chigwell; 23^rd, Chingford (closing run).

An Italian tour, arranged for September 4^th to 26^th, had to be abandoned owing to the prevalence of cholera in the country. In place of this, however, the Captain organized a tour in France, through Brittany to the Loire, from 28^th August to 12^th September.

During the month of September, W.J. Hunter rode 213, and A.J. Smith 187 miles in 24 hours, but owing to breach of the compulsory rules governing the 24 hours’ competition, the checking committee found themselves obliged to reject the claims. This unfortunately gave rise to some very stormy scenes at one or two subsequent meetings, and resulted in the resignation of five members; in course of the next two or three years, however, three of these returned to the fold, wiser if not better men.

The race for the 25-Mile Championship was held at the Alexandra Park, on the 2^nd September, when Mr. Mann passed the post alone; Messrs. Nicolas and W.J. Hunter having collided earlier in the race. Mr. Mann’s time was 1 h.49 m., so he was not qualified for the gold medal, though the committee had extended the time limit from 1 h. 30 m. to 1 h. 38 m. owing to the heavy state of the track.

The closing run to the Forest Hotel, Chingford, was a very successful affair, over 120 members and friends attending the meeting.

Club walks for November were as follows:- 13^th, from Cobham, under the leadership of Mr. H.L. Clarke (six attended); and for the 27^th, from Snaresbrook to Chigwell conducted by the Captain.

A smoking concert was held at the club-room on November 22^nd.

The walks for December were:- 18^th, from Hendon conducted by Mr. Duesbury; and on Boxing Day, from Snaresbrook, by Messrs. Boulter and Clough.

At the general meeting on December 1^st, Mr. Boulter was awarded the silver medal of the Club for riding 187½ miles in 24 hours, and Mr. C.E. Doyle, 163½ miles.

The seventeenth Annual Dinner was held on the 2^nd December, at the London Tavern; there is no printed account of this, but it is within the recollection of the writer that it was as successful as the Club dinner always is.

A very successful Cinderella Dance was held at the Manor Rooms, Hackney, on the 18^th December. The dance committee consisted of Messrs. H.L. Clarke (secretary), Maverly, Hollands, Amadori, and Kidd.

1887

January 26th, Annual General Meeting. – The following gentlemen were elected to fill the various offices for the ensuing year:- President, Sir W.T. Charley, Q.C.; Vice-Presidents, W.E. Maverly, J. Bryant, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, H. Mann; Treasurer, Shirley Fussell; Hon. Secretary, H. Duesbury; Committee: W.E. Blake (27), C.H. Cole (25), H.L. Clarke (24), R. Clarke (22), H.W. Tatum (15).

Mr. G.T. Clough (Ben Allen) retired from the committee after a continuous service on the same of ten years, and a special vote of thanks was passed to him for his services.

January 29^th. – A Club Cinderella Dance was held at Bromley Vestry Hall on this date, and was pronounced by all present to be an eminent success.

February 9^th. – At the general meeting on 9^th February, it was resolved not to hold an open race meeting this year.

It was announced at the same meeting that Mr. Charles Dickens, eldest son of the great novelist, had consented to become an honorary member of the Club.

The runs for March were:- 12^th, opening run to Chingford; 19^th, Waltham Cross; 26^th, Epping.

About ninety members and friends attended the opening meeting at the Forest Hotel, and had a very successful evening.

In the early part of the year, Mr. H. Sturmy, the well-known cycle manufacturer, organized a fund for the purpose of presenting the National Lifeboat Institution with a “Cyclists’ Jubilee Lifeboat,” and in the month of March the Club sent a contribution of £20 7s. 6d. towards the same, having been collecting among members and their friends.

The runs for April were:- 8^th to 11^th, Easter Tour; 16^th, Lambourne End; 23^rd, Mill Hill; 30^th, Havering-atte-Bower.

Easter Tour.- The Captain was unable to attend the tour, having unfortunately sprained his ankle, so Mr. Dodson (H. Mann, Sub-Captain) acted as captain, with the Hon. Mr. Crushton as “sub”. The start was from Kew on Good Friday morning, through Staines and Virginia Water to Blackwater for lunch; then by Basingstoke and Whitchurch to Andover, 57½ miles, for dinner and sleep. On Saturday, via Stockbridge to Romsey for lunch; and on by Lyndhurst to Lymington (36½ miles), where the night was passed. On Sunday to Brockenhurst and Millbrook to Southampton for lunch, then by Bishop’s Waltham and Farrington to Alton (44½ miles) for the night. Returning on Easter Monday by Bentley Green and Farnham to Guildford for lunch, then through Ripley and Esher to Kingston and Richmond (39½ miles), where train was taken for Dalston, where the party separated. This was the only Easter tour ever joined by the writer, and is vividly impressed on his memory as one of the most pleasant outings that could possibly be; the weather was splendid, and so warm that in passing through the New Forest we dismounted from our machines and lay down on the grass for some time. One thing never to be forgotten was the lovely floral Eastern decorations in Lyndhurst Church, being prepared by Lady Londesborough and friends. About twenty members and friends took part in the tour, and all were delighted with the same.

The runs for May were:- 7^th, Road Competition, Watford to Tring; 14^th, Barnet, inter-club run with London Scottish, Rovers and Dartmouth Park clubs (12 Pickwicks attended); 21^st, Harlow; 28^th, Whitsun Tour (1^st day Horsham, 2^nd Chichester, 3^rd London, via Ripley).

On May 7^th the Road Competition, as above notified, took place, and proved a most successful and interesting affair. Owing to recent rains the roads were heavy, which made riding times not so fast as they might have been. The prizes were: first, value £2; second, £1; third, 10s.; and a special prize, value one guinea, for fastest time. The course was 15½ miles in length, and the result as follows:

1. C.E. Doyle, 7 m. start, net time 1 h. 7 m.;

2. H. Kirkham, 4 m. start, net time 1 h. 7 m. 30 s.;

3. J.H. Pullin, scr., time 1 h. 8 m..

All which times reflect much credit on the handicapping; there were six other competitors. Twenty-two members put in an appearance at Tring and enjoyed a very convivial evening. The next day the party returned to Watford, and, after dining together, took various ways back to town, all well pleased with the outing.

The runs for June were:- 4^th, Ongar; 11^th, Shenley; 18^th, St. Margarets; 25^th, Alexandra Park (Jubilee Tournament).

During this month Messrs. Boulter and H.L. Clarke made a tandem tour in Italy.

The runs for July were:- 2^nd, Lambourne End; 9^th, Hatfield; 16^th, Brentwood; 23^rd, Hertford; 30^th, Bank Holiday tour to Sittingbourne and Margate. (There is no account of this tour.)

The Club championship (25 miles) was raced for on the 28^th July, at the Alexandra Park, the result being:- 1, H. Mann, 1 h. 24 m. 2¼ s., gold medal; 2, J.H. Pullin, 1 h. 24 m. 4 s., silver medal; 3, H. Kirkham, 1 h. 29 m. 28 s., silver medal. Also started, Messrs. C.E. Doyle, A.J. Smith, and D.H. Kidd. The first two of these obtained silver medals. Mr. Kidd retired during the race.

The runs for August were:- 6^th, North Ockenden; 13^th, Ongar; 20^th, Ridge Hill; 27^th, Harlow Bush.

For September:- 3^rd, Long Distance Competition; 10^th, Goff’s Oak; 17^th, St. Margarets; 24^th, Road Handicap.

September 3^rd. – The twenty-four hours road ride, from Hitchin to Holbeach and back, obtained six entries, viz.: Messrs. A.J. Smith, H. Kirkham, C.E. Doyle, T.J. Boulter, J.R. Hudston, and J.W. Raybould, three only of whom started viz.: Messrs. Smith, Kirkham and Doyle. Messrs. Kirkham and Doyle retired at Wisbech, and Mr. Smith alone completed the ride, placing 207 miles to his credit. The checking at various points on the road was performed by Messrs. Hollands, H.L. Clarke, Fussell, Bryant and Maverly.

September 24^th. – On this date the road competition from Abridge to Chelmsford (19 miles) took place, the prizes being of the same values as for the handicap in May. The result was – 1, A.J. Smith, 8 m. start, net time 1 h. 11 m. 2 s.; 2, H. Kirkham, 7 m. start, net time 1 h. 14 m. 2 s.; 3, C.E. Doyle, 9 m. start, net time 1 h. 14 m. 30 s.. Also started, Messrs. H.V. Smith and Pullin (tandem), T.J. Boulter, T.A. Venimore, H. Mann, and H.W. Tatum. Twenty-three sat down to dinner at Chelmsford, and a very pleasant evening was spent, members returning to town next day by various routes.

The runs for October were:- 1^st, Nasing; 8^th, Abridge; 15^th, Lambourne End; 22^nd, closing run, Chingford.

The arrangements for the closing run were in the hands of the Captain and Sub-Captain, and eighty-five members and friends attended and had an excellent evening. Special mention is made in the Monthly Circular of Brother Tadger’s programme covers.

There was a Club walk on Saturday, 19^th November, under the leadership of Mr. Shirley Fussell. The start was from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, at 4 p.m. Tea was taken at the King’s Head, Chigwell.

There was a smoking concert at headquarters on 21^st November.

December 3^rd. – The eighteenth Annual Dinner took place at the London Tavern, eighty members and friends sitting down. It was a most successful affair.

1888

January 23^rd.- The annual election of officers resulted as follows:- President, Sir W.T. Charley, Q.C.; Vice-Presidents, W.E. Maverly, J. Bryant; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, H. Mann; Treasurer, Shirley Fussell; Hon. Secretary, H. Duesbury; Committee: W.E. Blake (21), J. Atto (17), H.W. Tatum (16), H.L. Clarke (15).

At this meeting it was decided to confer on Mr. Otto Riehmer (Brother Tadger) the honorary membership of the Club, to be presented to him on an Illuminated Vellum, “in recognition of his artistic and other services to the Club.” We afterwards find that “it was intended to present this at the opening run meeting at Chingford, but owing to unforeseen circumstances Brother Tadger was not present.” It was, however, presented at the club-room on a later occasion.

January 30^th. – Mr. W.G. Churcher’s entertainment at headquarters, “Sketches from the Pickwick Papers,” followed by the recitation of “The Pet Lion.” Some music and singing concluded a jolly evening.

February 3^rd. – Joint Dance with Rovers Cycling Club at Bromley Vestry Hall (no account).

February 18^th. – Club walk under the leadership of the Captain. Train to St. Margarets and walk to Ware, thence to Mr. J.W. Beningfield’s house, “Cranborne,” Stanstead. Twenty-one members attended and had a capital outing.

February 27^th. – Messrs. B.J. and A.C. Edwards gave a most interesting Lantern Exhibition at headquarters of views taken by themselves in New Zealand.

It is announced in the Circular dated 29^th February, that our member, Mr. A.J. Smith (Horatio Fizkin), had become host of the Leather Bottle, at Cobham, a position he holds, I believe, at the present time (January, 1904).

March 24^th. – The opening run to the Forest Hotel, Chingford, on this date, was very successful, about ninety members and friends attending.

Easter Tour. – The tour this year was very different from last, the weather being, as described in the Circular, “vile.” However, the Captain, Sub-Captain and a dozen others braved the elements, and carried through the run.

The first day’s ride (Good Friday) was the same as last year – Staines, Blackwater and Basingstoke to Andover. Second day, lunch at Amesbury, dine and sleep at Marlborough. Third day (Sunday), lunch at Newbury, dine and sleep at Reading. On Monday, lunch at Slough, and on to Kew for train back to Dalston. I rode down to meet “the boys” at lunch, and well I remember the rough head wind I encountered going down, and how during lunch time, and a little delay after, it turned right round, so poor Crushton got it both ways. With every desire to make the best of things, it could not be said that the tour was “thoroughly enjoyable”; indeed, I note in the Circular, the comparison was made with Mark Tapley, in the fortitude with which the tourists bore up against the climatic conditions.

The runs for April were:- 7^th, Epping; 14^th, Cheshunt; 21^st, Lambourne End; 28^th, Mill Hill.

For May:- 5^th, Harlow; 12^th, Barnet; 19^th, Independent; 26^th, Goff’s Oak.

May 5^th.- Road Handicap, Watford to Tring. First prize, value £2; second, £1; third, 10s., and a special prize, value £1 1s., for the fastest time. The result was:- 1, C.E. Doyle, tricycle, 7 mins. Start, net time 1 hr. 45 secs.; 2, H.A. Jacobs, ordinary bicycle.15 mins. Start, net time 1 hr. 3 mins.; 3, H. Kirkham, safety, 7 mins. Start, net time 1 hr. 7 mins. 6 secs.. Also rode, in the following order:- 4, H.V. Smith and J.H. Pullin, tandem; 5, F.J. Field, ordinary bicycle; 6, H.L. Clarke, safety; 7, J. Bryant, ordinary bicycle. C.E. Doyle took both the first and fastest time prizes.

May 12^th.- Inter-club run with the London Scottish, Rovers, and Dartmouth Park Clubs, to the Old Salisbury, Barnet.

May 18^th to 23^rd, Whitsun Tour.- Eight members and two friends attended the Captain’s Tour in France. They were received on landing at Dieppe by M. Etienne Girand, of the “Cercle de la Pedale”, a Paris club, other members of that club joining the party afterwards. The places passed through on the tour were Rouen, Beauvals, Amiens, and thence back to Dieppe. “The distance ridden was 140 miles, the roads perfection, hotels comfortable, expenses moderate – the tour passed off without mishap, and was an unqualified success.”

Those who accompanied the Captain were Messrs. C.E. Doyle, J. Pennell, H.L. Clarke, J. Atto, H. Kirkham, Shirley Fussell, E. Hollands, C.T. Scrivener, and G.T. Clough. There is a very nice account of this tour in The Graphic, of September 15^th, written by our former member, Mr. Pott (Jo. Pennell).

The runs for June were:- 2^nd, Upminster; 9^th, Essenden; 16^th, Ridge Hill; 23^rd, Ongar; 30^th, St. Margarets.

For July:- 7^th, Hatfield; 14^th, Newhaven to Croydon, with the “Cercle de la Pedale”; 21^st, Brentwood; 28^th, Shenley.

July 26^th.- Club Championship (25 miles scratch), at the Crystal Palace. On this occasion no one was found forthcoming to oppose Mr. Dodson (Mr. H. Mann), who had already won this event twice in succession, so he had a “walk over” for it. His performance, however, was remarkably good. The time limit fixed by the Club was 1 h. 30 m. and the rider covered the distance in 1 h. 21 m. 15 s., and thus became the absolute owner of the handsome cup, which had been competed for on ten previous occasions.

During the month of July, C.E. Doyle rode 202 miles 6 furlongs in 24 hours, on a “Quadrant” Tricycle weighing 60 lbs. In view of the light machines of the present day, this was a fine performance.

The runs for August were:- 11^th, Hertford; 18^th, Ongar; 25^th, Ridge Hill.

September:- 1^st, Havering-atte-Bower; 8^th, Cheshunt; 15^th, Harlow; 22^nd, Road Handicap; 29^th, Lambourne End.

ROAD HANDICAP – Abridge to Chelmsford (19 miles) – took place in splendid weather, the competition finishing as under.

1.- H. Kirkham 6 m. start net time 1 h. 10 m.

2.- T.J. Boulter scratch net time 1 h. 15 m.

3.- H.L. Clarke 12 m. start net time 1 h. 20 m. 30 s.

4.- J.H. Pullin scratch net time 1 h. 31 m.

5.- R. Clarke scratch (Time not taken).

Mr. Boulter, therefore, won the fastest time prize.

Prizes of the same value as last handicap.

The party put up at the George Hotel, Chelmsford, for the night, and had a smoking concert and jolly evening. There were sixteen present. The ride back to Town, next day, was via Much Hadham, where dinner was taken.

The runs for October were:- 6^th, National Cyclists’ Union Race Meeting, at Kennington Oval; 13^th, Closing run, to Forest Hotel, Chingford. This event took place in due course, and was most successful. A fine musical programme was provided, and nearly one hundred members and friends were present.

During September, Mr. Boulter rode 218¾ miles in 24 hours, and obtained the gold medal of the Club for the performance.

During October, the following 24-hour rides were accomplished:- J/R. Hudston (tricycle), 198 m. 2 f.; A.E. Hunt (52-inch ordinary), 183 m. 4 f.; F.J. Field (54-inch ordinary), 181 m. 4 f..

November 17^th.- A Club walk took place, under the leadership of Mr. Nockemorf (H.L. Clarke), from Gravesend to the Leather Bottle, Cobham. The weather was fine, and the walk most enjoyable. Fourteen members and friends attended this outing, and were well entertained by host Horatio Fiskin, Esq., and, having spent a capital musical evening, the party returned to Town at 10.15. In addition to Mr. Nockemorf, the success of the evening was largely contributed to by Mr. Jingle and Shiny Villiam, the latter having charge of the ivory department.

It is on record that in this month (November), Mr. J.W. Raybould (Serjeant Snubbin) succeeded in obtaining £10 16s. 6d. damages and costs (two shillings had been paid into Court) from a cycle agent, who had let him a defective machine on hire. This was mentioned in the Monthly Circular, as an encouragement to those who might be “put upon” in any similar way, to stand up for their rights.

December 8^th.- The nineteenth Annual Dinner was held on this date, at the London Tavern, and was in all respects a very gratifying function – between sixty and seventy members and friends attended. It was announced at this meeting that prizes would be presented by the President (Sir W.T. Charley), and Messrs. J.W. Beningfield and W.C. Docking, for competition among the members.

1889

January 28th, Annual General Meeting.- The following gentlemen were elected to fill the various offices for the ensuing year:-

President, Sir W.T. Charley; Vice-Presidents, W.E. Maverly and J. Bryant; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, Raymond Clarke; Hon. Treasurer, Shirley Fussell; Hon. Secretary, H. Duesbury; Committee, W.E. Blake, F.J. Field,W.E. Maverly, H.W. Tatum, W.T. Turner, Messrs. Beningfield and Maverly were elected Trustees of the Reserve Fund.

February 4th.- At the adjourned annual general meeting on this date, a considerable revision of the rules took place, mainly referring to road competitions.

February 14th,.- Club walk under the leadership of the Captain. Train to Rye House, and after calling at Mr. Beningfield’s “Cranborne”, a brisk walk was taken via Ware and Hertford, and back by Gallow’s Hill, about thirteen miles. The party returned to “Cranborne,” and were most hospitably entertained by Mr. Beningfield and family, and spent a very enjoyable evening, returning to town by the 10 p.m. train.

March 4th.- At the general meeting on this date, an announcement was made by Mr. Duesbury that, owing to business arrangements, he felt obliged to retire from the post of Hon. Secretary. After several members had expressed their views on the admirable manner in which Mr. Duesbury had carried out the duties of the office, it was proposed and seconded, “That the resignation be accepted with much regret,” which was carried accordingly.

Mr. W.E. Blake was then elected Hon. Secretary, Mr. Duesbury being elected to the vacancy on the committee caused by Mr. Blake’s appointment.

March 9th.- A Club walk from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, to the King’s Head, Chigwell, the Captain in charge. Eleven members attended, and had a good time.

March23rd.- Opening Run.- This meeting, as on former occasions, was a marked success, nearly 100 members and friends attending. In the course of the proceedings, a presentation was made to Mr. Duesbury, of an Illuminated Vellum, in recognition of his valuable services to the Club as Hon. Secretary for five years. The presentation was made by the Captain, and suitably acknowledged by Mr. Jingle.

April 1st, General Meeting.- It was now decided to establish country headquarters for the Club; and the Red Lion, Much Hadnam, five miles from Bishop’s Stortford, was selected, and many pleasant gatherings were subsequently held among its rural surroundings.

At this meeting also it was decided that there should be no Club championship race this year; in fact, time had proved that, with the capture of the cup by Mr. Dodson, the 25-mile championship died a natural death.

A letter was read (April 1st) from Sir W.T. Charley, resigning his office as president of the Club, without assigning any reason for so doing. The resignation was accepted with regret.

The runs for April were:- 6th, Havering-atte-Bower; 13th, Goff’s Oak; 20th, Easter Tour; 27th, Mill Hill.

On the 15th April, Frank Simmery (Mr. A.C. Edwards) gave a very interesting lantern entertainment at headquarters, the display being agreeably varied by intervals for songs and music. A cordial vote of thanks was given Mr. Edwards at the conclusion.

April 19th to 22nd, Easter Tour.- The tour this year was quite a change from the last two. On Good Friday morning a start was made from Chingford, and lunch was taken at Buntingford (26 miles); then by Royston, Harlston, &c., to Cambridge (45½ miles); where “dine and sleep.” Saturday, lunch at St. Neots (17½ miles); then by Eaton Socon, Bedford, &c., to Newport Pagnell, for the night, at the Swan. Sunday, Stony Stratford and Buckingham to Bicester (25½ miles) for lunch, and then to Oxford (39 miles) for the night. Easter Monday, lunch at Aylesbury, the Crown; then by Tring, St. Albans and Barnet, to Wood Green, where the party dispersed for home. Twenty members and three visitors attended, and had a very good time, though there was too much heavy wind and some rain.

The runs for May were:- 4th, Barnett (Inter-Club run); 11th, Road Competition, Watford to Tring; 18th, Harlow.

May 6th, General Meeting.- A letter was read from Sir William Charley offering a prize of a Silver Cup, value £10, in pursuance of his promise made at the last annual dinner. This was accepted at a subsequent meeting, and the “Charley Challenge Cup” was thus established, the contests for which will be duly recorded in this chronicle.

Some time previous to this, there had been correspondence in the Cycling Press with regard to the seniority of our Club, the Edinburgh Amateur Bicycle Club claiming to be the oldest club. The Pickwick Bicycle Club had offered to submit the matter to the arbitration of the N.C.U., but the Edinburgh Amateur Bicycle Club declined the offer, whereupon the Pickwick Bicycle Club submitted the proofs of their age and continuous existence since June, 1870, and in reply received a letter from the N.C.U., of which the following is a copy:-

”N.C.U. OFFICES,
May 1st, 1899
“The Executive, having examined the evidence before them, are of the opinion that the Pickwick Bicycle Club was established on 22nd June, 1870, and that it has been in continuous existence since that time, and further, that no other club has established any claim to priority.

I.W. ELDERFIELD
Assistant Secretary.”

This letter was read at the general meeting on May 6th, and was afterwards published in all the Cycling papers, and commented on in a manner quite favourable to our Club’s views; but in spite of that, the matter bubbles up now and then at long intervals by reference of some “canny Scot” thereto, showing that it still rankles; but the Pickwick Bicycle Club have never thought it worth while to pay any further attention to these small writhings.

May 11th:-ROAD HANDICAP, Watford to Tring (15 miles). The afternoon turned out a regular “soaker”, and only three out of eleven entrants started. The result was:-
1.- F.J. Field         3 mins. start         net time 1 h. 9 m. 0 s.
2.- T.J. Boulter scratch               net time 1 h. 21 m. 30 s.
3.- A.E. Hunt     time not taken

Messrs. G.M. Wood and J.F. Burge rode the whole way from Town and arrived in a moist state. The company at the Rose and Crown numbered eight, and a pleasant evening was spent. (And they deserved it! – Crushton).

Mr. Serjeant Snubbin, it would seem, had been on the warpath again, this time obtaining compensation from the Great Northern Railway for damage done to his bicycle. He had signed his bicycle ticket “at owner’s risk”, “under protest.”

The runs for June were:- 1st, Waltham Cross, on to Much Hadham for the night; 15th, Upminster; 20th, St. Margarets, and on to Much Hadham for the night.

For July:- 13th, Upminster; 20th and 27th, N.C.U. Championships at Paddington Grounds, Edgeware Road.

For August:- 10th, Essendon; 17th, Ongar; 24th, Hertford and on to Much Hadnam for the night; 31st, Shenley.

For September:- 7th, Road Handicap; 14th, Goff’s Oak; 21st, Road Handicap; 28th, Ridge Hill.

At the general meeting on 2nd September, it was decided that the race for the “Charley Challenge Cup” should be a 50-Mile Road Handicap, with a limit start, the Cup to be won twice in succession, or three times in all.

September 7th.- NOVICE’S ROAD HANDICAP (for those members who had never won a Club prize). First prize, value £2 2s., presented by Mr. J.W. Beningfield; second, value £1 1s., and third, value 15s.; but no third prize if less than six starters. Watford to Tring (fifteen miles). There were fifteen entries and seven starters. Result:-
1.- J. Atto  4½ m. start         net time, 59 m. 30 s.
2.- H. Duesbury 14 m. start   net time 59 m. 46 s.
3.- T.H. Coombs 2 m. start    net time 1 h. 1 m. 45 s.

On the same day, Messrs. A.J. Smith and F.J. Field covered a distance of 240 miles on the Great North Road.

September 21st.- On this date there was a handicap ride from Abridge to Chelmsford, a distance of 19 miles. The first prize given by Mr. W.C. Docking (Bill Stumps). Three prizes and fastest time prize. Result:-
1.- F.J. Field scratch     net time 1 h. 5 m. 0 s.
   Also fastest time prize winner.
2.- J. Atto  3 m. start   net time 1 h. 7 m. 10 s.
3.- H. Kirkham scratch  net time 1 h. 12 m. 20 s.

The runs for October were:- 5th, Snaresbrook to Abridge; 12th, closing run, Chingford.

On the 7th October is recorded the return to the fold of Mr. K.M. Yeoman, a founder, and first Captain of the Club. The cause of his retirement, twelve years back, is given at an earlier period in these notes; and it must be a matter of congratulation to all those who did not know Lieutenant Tappleton before, that they should have become acquainted with so good a fellow since his return; a Past President, and present Treasurer of the Club, he commands the respect of all.

October 12th, Closing Run, Chingford.- This event passed off in the usual successful manner; about ninety members and friends attended, and thoroughly enjoyed the excellent musical programme provided.

November 4th, General Meeting:- A very important piece of business was effected at this meeting, to wit, the election of another President. The committee, after mature consideration, had deemed it desirable to make a departure from former custom, and to nominate a member of the Club for the post; and bearing in mind the long and honourable connection Mr. W.E. Maverly had had with the Club from its foundation, they considered him a fit and proper person to occupy the position. It was then moved by Mr. J.W. Raybould (Mr. Serjeant Snubbin), and seconded by Mr. H.E. Carpenter (The Marquis of Filletoville), that Mr. Maverly be elected President. Mr. Maverly agreed to accept the office, provided that the Club made a new rule that no President could occupy the position for two consecutive years; this with a view of the Club being able to elect a fresh President from among its members, without in any way touching the susceptibilities of the retiring one. The meeting agreeing with those views, the motion was then put, and carried with acclamation; musical honours crowning the election; Mr. Maverly to be eligible for re-election at the next annual general meeting.

November 16th.-A Club walk was carried out under the leadership of Serjeant Buzfuz (H.W. Tatum), from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, to the King’s Head, Chigwell. The usual pigeon-pie tea was partaken of; Shiny Villiam presided at the piano with his usual ability, and “the Serjeant” well earned the vote of thanks accorded.

At the general meeting on the 2nd December, the curious case of two members, Messrs. A.J. Smith and F.J. Field, having ridden a dead heat in a 24 hour’s ride (240 miles), and both claiming the Club gold medal, was carefully considered. The Club disallowed the claim, but awarded special medals, with suitable inscriptions on the same.

December 14th.- A Club walk was conducted by Mr. Jingle from Elstree to the Welsh Harp, Hendon, where a high tea was provided; fifteen members attended.

Note – The Annual Dinner had to be postponed till the new year, owing to arrangements in connection with the Orion dance.

1890

January 18^th.- The twentieth Annual Dinner took place on this date at the London Tavern, under the chairmanship of Mr. W.E. Maverly, President, and sixty members and friends sat down – a very good attendance, considering that an epidemic of influenza was about, and the weather not good. Sir William Charley sat on the right of the chairman, and during the proceedings presented the Club with a Ten Guinea Cup as a momento of his Presidency. It was announced by the chairman that prizes would also be given during the season – one by the President, value 5 guineas, and others by Messrs. Beningfield, Docking, Mann and Duesbury, value 2 guineas each. An excellent musical programme was gone through after dinner.

January 27^th, Twentieth Annual General Meeting.- The following members were elected to various offices for the ensuing year:- President, Mr. W.E. Maverly; Vice-Presidents, J.W. Beningfield, J. Bryant, Shirley Fussell; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, F.J. Field; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake; Committee: Messrs. Maverly, G. Muir-Wood, Duesbury, Tatum and Elliott.

February 22^nd.-A Club walk took place from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, to the King’s Head, Chigwell, the Captain in charge.

In the Circular, dated February 27^th, it is announced that prizes, value 2 guineas each, would be offered for competition by Messrs. H.A. Jacobs (Wilkins Flasher) and Otto Riehmer (Brother Tadger).

March 3^rd.- Sir William T. Charley, Q.C., was elected an honorary member of the Club.

March 22^nd, Opening Run to Chingford.- Nearly 100members and friends attended. An excellent photo lantern entertainment was given by Messrs. B.J. and A.C. Edwards, and Mr. Wellington of the Temple Cycle Club, in addition to the high-class musical entertainment always provided on these occasions.

April 4^th to 7^th, Easter Tour.- This was again in a westerly direction.

Good Friday.- Starting from Staines to Blackwater for lunch (White Hart), then via Basingstoke to Winchester (dine and sleep). Saturday, by Romsey, Cadnam, &c., to Ringwood for lunch, then New Bridge to Wimborne (dine and sleep). Sunday, via Christchurch and Lyndhurst to Southampton to lunch. Botley, Farringdon, &c., to Alton for the night. Easter Monday, Bentley Green to Guildford for lunch, then by Ripley and Esher to Richmond for train home. Twenty-three members carried out the greater part of the tour; but the weather was bad on Easter Monday, and several trained home. I went down to Guildford and met thirteen of them and had lunch. The pleasure of the outing was certainly much qualified by the weather.

April 26^th.- NOVICES’ HANDICAP, Watford to Tring (15 miles). Weather and roads both bad. The officers were:-Starter, H. Duesbury; Judge, T.J. Boulter; Timekeeper, F.J. Field. Result:-

1	E. Hollands	12 m. start	net time 1 h. 18 m. 40 s.
2	A.C. Edwards	9 m. start	net time 1 h. 19 m. 0 s.
3	F.H. Bell	12 m. start	net time 1 h. 51 m. 43 s.
4	S.H. Elliott	time not taken

Only two prizes were given, there being less than five starters. The party at the Rose and Crown, Tring, numbered nine, and after a substantial tea a social and musical evening was enjoyed.

May 5^th, General Meeting.- After the business of this meeting a very pleasing ceremony took place, when the Chairman (Mr. W.E. Maverly) presented Mr. Boulter with a handsome Spirit Stand, on behalf of those members who had joined in the recent Easter tour, “as a mark of their appreciation of the able manner in which he had arranged for and conducted the tour, and of the affability and kindness he always extends to those who may have the pleasure of touring under his leadership.” Mr. Boulter acknowledged the presentation in appropriate terms, and music and songs occupied the remainder of the evening.

May 31^st.- Handicap, Abridge to Chelmsford, 19 miles. First prize the gift of Mr. H. Mann. Result:-

1	H.L. Clarke	9 m. start	net time 1 h. 7 m. 55 s.
2	H. Kirkham	1 m. start	net time 1 h. 8 m. 10s.
3	J.H. Pullin	scratch	net time 1 h. 13 m. 0 s.

June 28^th.- Watford to Tring, 15 miles. First prize the gift of Mr. W.C. Docking. Weather and roads both bad, and only two competitors turned out. Result:-

1	H. Kirkham	scratch	net time 1 h. 9 m. 0 s.
2	F.J. Field	2 m. start	net time 1 h. 15 m. 0 s.

Good Bill Stumps (the prize donor) was at the winning post, and Pruffle (E.P. Thompson) rode from Elstree and joined the small party at the Rose and Crown.

August 23^rd.- Handicap, Watford to Tring. First prize by Mr. Otto Riehmer. The weather was very fine for this race, and the roads good. Result:-

1	J. Atto	5 m. start	net time 1 h. 1 m. 0 s.
2	S.H. Elliott	4 m. start	net time 1 h. 2 m. 32 s.
3	H.L. Clarke	8 m. start	net time 1 h. 3 m. 30 s.

other competitors were H. Kirkham, T.J. Boulter, H. Duesbury and A.H. Early. The party at Tring numbered ten, some of whom returned to town the same evening, the others riding back next day.

August 30^th.- Handicap, Chigwell to Ongar and back. First prize the gift of Mr. H. Duesbury. Result:-

1	H.L. Clarke	12 m. start	net time 54 m. 45 s.
2	F.J. Field	2 m. start	net time 56 m. 22 s.
3	H. Kirkham	scratch	net time 57 m. 30 s.

Also rode, Messrs. Early, Elliott and Atto.

September 6^th.- Charley Challenge Cup (first race). FIFTY-MILE HANDICAP. Course from Hitchin, 25 miles on the North Road and back. Start 2.30 p.m. The winner will also be awarded the gold medal of the Club, and silver medals to all other competitors riding the distance in 3 h. 45 m. or less. Officials:- Starter and Judge, S. Fussell; Timekeeper, K.M. Yeoman; Checker at Tingey’s Farm, H.E. Carpenter; At tarn, Buckden, E. Hollands. Result:-

1	H. Kirkham	scratch	net time 3 h. 11½ m.
2	F.J. Field	scratch	net time 3 h. 16½ m.
3	J. Atto	19 m. start	net time 3 h. 29½ m.

Messrs. Boulter, Elliott and Early also started but did not complete the distances. After the race ten members dined together at the Sun, at Hitchin, and had a very pleasant evening, the social arrangements being in the hands of Count Smorltork.

September 15^th:-Tom Cummins (H. Kirkham) rode 224½ miles in 24 hours (gold medal). On the same date Mr. Pickwick (T.J. Boulter) rode a tricycle 164½ miles in 21½ hours (silver medal).

September 20^th.- Another Handicap, Chigwell to Ongar and back. First prize the gift of Mr. H.A. Jacobs (Wilkins Flasher). Only three starters. Result:-

1	J. Atto	6½ m. start	net time 58 m. 0 s.
2	S.H. Elliott	7 m. start	net time 58 m. 30 s.
3	H. Kirkham	scratch	net time 1 h. 2 m. 30 s.

The social gathering after this event was particularly successful, fourteen members and friends sitting down to tea at the King’s Head.

September 26^th.- J. Atto rode 198½ miles in 19½ hours (silver medal).

October 4^th.- Inter-Club run to Old Salisbury, Barnet, with London Scottish, Rovers, and Dartmouth Park clubs.

November 8^th.- Club walk, Snaresbrook to Chigwell; Captain in charge.

The twenty-first Annual Dinner, or “coming of age” of the Club, was a great event, for which a special committee of stewards had been elected, viz.:- Messrs. Maverly, Fussell, Bryant, Beningfield, Jacobs, Boulter, Duesbury, Hollands, and W.E. Blake, by whom all arrangements were carried out in a very excellent manner. The President, Mr. W.E. Maverly, occupied the chair, and Sir William Charley, among others, was the guest of the Club. The company was a record number to date, 110 sitting down; among whom were seventeen visitors on the invitation of the Club; representing the N.C.U. and the C.T.C., as well as the Press, the manufacturers, the racing men, and other clubs. The whole function passed off splendidly; the musical programme arranged by Mr. Blotton, was perfect, and Brother Tadger provided a special new programme cover for the occasion. A very interesting part of the entertainment was a small cycle show in the reception room, arranged by Mr. Jingle (H. Duesbury), which exhibited various types of machines, from the earliest “bone-shaker” down to the latest pattern. I am sure all those who were present will always remember that dinner as a special event in the Club’s existence.

December 13^th.- Club walk, Chingford to Epping, S.H. Elliott, leader.

1891

January 26th.- At the twenty-first annual general meeting, the following elections took place for the various offices for the ensuing year:-

President, Mr. J.W. Beningfield; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Maverly, Bryant and Fussell; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, S.H. Elliott; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake. Committee: Messrs. Maverly, Duesbury and Hunt were elected delegates to the National Cyclists’ Union.

February 5^th.- On this date a Billiard Match, Surrey B.C. v. Pickwick B.C., was played at the Surrey B.C.’s headquarters, Southampton Buildings, Chancery Lane; our players being Messrs. G.L. Edwards, W. Hardy, J.F. Burge, K.M. Yeoman, and R.C. Armstrong, the first three named winning three out of the five games played. Seventeen of our members accepted the Surrey B.C.’s invitation, and were entertained in a very hospitable manner.

March 6^th. Opening Run to Chingford. – Was attended by seventy members and friends. The Captain was in the chair, and a capital programme was very efficiently carried out.

March 26^th to 30^th, Easter Tour.- A new departure was made this year in the carrying out of this event, the members taking train at 6.45 p.m. on Thursday evening for Newbury, Berks., where no doubt a very sociable evening was spent: On Good Friday morning a start was made, and proceeding via Hungerford, Froxfield, &c., Great Bedwin (13 miles) was reached for lunch, at the Tuns; then by Collingbourne, Shipton, &c., to Salisbury (14¼ miles) for the night at the Red Lion. On Saturday, by Upton Level and Warminster, to Frome (28½ miles), for lunch at the George; then to Nunney, Shepton Mallet, &c., to Glastonbury (49 miles), dine and sleep at the Crown. Sunday, to Wells (5½ miles), for lunch at the Star; then by Emborough, Radstock, and Odd Down, to Bath (23½ miles), dine and sleep at the White Lion. Easter Monday, Pickwick and Chippenham, to Calne, for lunch at the White Hart; then West Kennet, Marlborough, Hungerford, and back to Newbury, where train was taken to Paddington.

Eighteen members carried out this tour, and had a very pleasant time, though not without the usual Easter weather – very strong adverse winds, and a snowstorm on Good Friday. Salisbury Cathedral, Glastonbury Abbey, and other places of interest were visited, and Mr. Blotton, having his camera with him, took some very good views.

The runs for April were:-11^th, Cheshunt Church; 18^th, Lambourne End; 25^th, Essendon.

For May:- 2^nd, Tring (Novices’ Handicap); 9^th, Barnet (Inter-Club run); 16^th, Whitsun Tour; 23^rd, Shenley; 30^th, Alton.

May 2^nd.- NOVICES’ HANDICAP (Watford to Tring, 15 miles). Officials: Starter, Mr. Duesbury; Timekeeper, Mr. Hollands; Judge, Mr. Boulter; Mr. Atto on the road to direct riders. The weather was very bad and prevented a sufficient number of competitors starting to make a third prize. Results:-

1	S.C. Rhodes	scratch	net time 1 h. 0 m. 30 s.
2	E. Hill	8 m. start	net time 1 h. 6 m. 50 s.
3	A.H. Early	12½ m. start	net time 1 h. 20 m. 0 s.
4	H.F. Brangwin	10 m. start gave up racing

Several other members rode down, and fourteen assembled at tea, eleven of whom stayed the night. A regular Pickwick musical evening was spent.

May 9^th.- The Inter-Club run to Barnet with the London Scottish, Rovers , and Dartmouth Park Clubs, was a very pleasant affair, ten Pickwicks attending.

May 16^th.- Whitsuntide. A ride to St. Neots was arranged for Saturday, May 16^th, members to sleep there on that and the following night, going for a circular run on Sunday, and back to Town on Whit Monday. In the Circular dated May 28^th, I find the following brief notice:

“In spite of the wretched weather, five members attended the Whitsun outing.”

May 30^th.- The Sub-Captain, Joe, the Fat Boy (S.H. Elliott) organised a run for this date to Alton. Train to Richmond, then ride via Kingston to Ripley, where tea at five o’clock, and then on by Guildford and Farnham to Alton. Distance from Richmond forty miles. Returning on following day through Blackwater, where the party would dine at the White Hart. This ride was duly carried out, and was attended by Messrs. Boulter, Elliott, Mann, Rhodes, and E. Hill; the weather was very fine, and the return journey was extended via Winchester.

The runs for June were:- 6^th, St, Neots; 13^th, Ongar; 27^th, Brentwood.

June 6^th.- TWENTY-MILE HANDICAP (Hitchin to Eaton Socon). Result:-

1	F.J. Field	scratch	net time 1 h. 10 m. 15 s.
		(won by six inches)
2	S.C. Rhodes	scratch	net time 1 h. 10 m. 15 s.
3	E. Hill	14 m. start	net time 1 h. 11 m. 35 s.

Also started, Messrs. Kirkham, Elliott, Hollands, Atto, and Anderson. The party slept at St. Neots, returning to Town next day. There is a sporting account of the race in the July and Circular, written by Joe, the Fat Boy.

July 11^th.- Charley Challenge Cup (second race): FIFTY-MILE ROAD HANDICAP. Result:-

1	S.C. Rhodes	scratch	net time 2 h. 47 m. 48 s.
2	H. Kirkham	scratch	net time 2 h. 48 m. 30 s.
3	H.A. Coombs	30 m. start	net time 3 h. 6 m. 0 s.
4	S.H. Elliott	26 m. start	net time 3 h. 9 m. 48 s.
5	J. Atto	23 m. start	net time 3 h. 13 m. 30 s.
	H. Mann	28 m. start, time not taken, outside 3 h. 45 m.
	E. Hill	18 m. start, rode wrong course
	F.J. Field	Gave up ten miles out.

The five competitors numbered all took silver medals, having ridden the distance in less than 3 h. 45 m. It will be noticed that the winner’s time is only 42 secs. Better than No. 2; a very fine race.

A large party dined and slept at the Cock Hotel, Hitchin; all riding to Much Hadnam the following day, to meet and welcome back the Captain from his continental tour.

July 25^th.- An inter-club run with the Stanley was arranged for this date (Saturday), tea at Hadfield, sleep at Saracen’s Head, Dunstable. On Sunday, ride to Woburn, and back to dinner at Dunstable; afterwards returning to Town by road. I find no account of this outing, but no doubt it was as jolly as usual.

The runs for August were:- 1^st, Southern Counties Camp; 8^th, Hundred Miles Road Race; 15^th, St. Neots; 29^th, Worthing.

July 30^th to August 6^th.- Southern Counties Camp, held at the Poultry Farm, Dorking. This affair was generally voted a great success, though the weather was unsettled. Our Treasurer, Mr. Hollands, was a member of the camp committee, and worked very hard indeed in the interest of our Club and the camp generally. There were two Pickwick tents, and sixteen members visited the camp for different periods. The situation was beautiful, being in a large meadow just at the back of the town, and approached by a lane; the surrounding scenery being all that could be desired. A considerable number of other clubs attended, among whom were our friends the Stanley, the Brixton Ramblers, the Holborn, &c.. The two days I spent in camp the weather was very fine, and something lively was going on the whole time; indeed, I think the whole affair was what might be described as “a very thick time.” At the general meeting on the 10^th August, a hearty vote of thanks was proposed to Mr. Hollands, for his valuable services in connection with the camp, and was carried with acclamation.

August 5^th.- TWENTY-MILE HANDICAP (Hitchin to Eaton Socon). This race was ridden in very fine weather, and the times show good handicapping. Result:-

1	S.C. Rhodes	scratch	net time 1 h. 2 m. 15 s.
2	T.H. Elliott	11 m. start	net time 1 h. 4 m. 15 s.
3=.	H. Kirkham	scratch	net time 1 h. 5 m. 15 s.
	J. Atto	12 m. start	net time 1 h. 5 m. 15 s.
4	E. Hill	5 m. start	net time 1 h. 10 m. 0 s.
	F.J. Field	scratch	Retired

Six members proceeded to St. Neots, where the night was passed, and next day the ride was continued to Much Hadnam, where Count Smorltork joined the party at dinner; all riding back to Town after.

August 29^th.- SCRATCH RACE, 100 miles, for Mr. Maverly’s prize (value five guineas), took place on this date, in bad weather, rain and mud interfering much with the comfort and pace of competitors; but in spite of these disadvantages a very credible performance was accomplished. Result:-

		50 miles	100 miles
1	H. Kirkham	3 h. 2 m. 20 s.	6 h. 29 m. 45 s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	3 h. 12 m. 30 s.	6 h. 47 m.
3	E. Hill	3 h. 17 m. 15 s.	7 h. 37 m.
4	T.J. Boulter	3 h. 49 m. 30 s.	8 h. 27 m. 20 s

The first three riders took silver medals, Mr. Boulter a bronze one.

The runs for September were:- 5^th, Potters Bar; 12^th, Goff’s Oak; 19^th, Lambourne End; 26^th, Stanstead, St.Margarets.

On 5^th September, twelve members accepted the invitation of Mr. W.C. Docking, to visit him at Park House, Potters Bar; and on the 26^th, sixteen availed themselves of a like invitation from the President, Mr. J.W. Beningfield, at “Cranbourne,” Stanstead, St. Margarets. The weather was fine on both occasions, and many of the visitors rode. The account in the Circular concludes thus: “The members who attended these meetings will long bear a pleasant recollection of the hearty welcomes accorded them by their genial hosts and hostesses.”

October 10^th, Closing Run, Chingford.- The weather was very unfavourable, and only seventy-five members and friends were present at the smoking concert, but a very enjoyable evening was spent. Mr. Austin Edwards (Frank Simmery) gave an interesting photo-lantern exhibition, and some good music and singing filled up the programme.

September 15^th.- Fourteen members accepted the invitation of the Stanley Cycling Club to a social evening at their Club House, Seven Sisters Road. A most cordial welcome was extended to us, and an excellent musical programme provided, and everyone enjoyed themselves thoroughly.

November 14^th.- There was a Club walk on this date, from Chingford to Epping, which was attended by ten members, who enjoyed a social evening after.

The following note appears in the Circular dated January 21^st, 1892:-

December 5^th.- Twenty-second Annual Dinner, at the Holborn Restaurant. A very successful meeting, eighty-four members and friends sitting down. A presentation of a handsome marble clock was made to the Hon. Secretary, which high complement has been greatly appreciated by that officer.

1892

January 25^th, Annual General Meeting.- The following gentlemen were elected to fill the various offices for the ensuing year:- President, Mr. Shirley Fussell; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. W.E. Maverly, J. Bryant and J.W. Beningfield; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, S.H. Elliott; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake; Committee, Messrs. Duesbury, Kirkham, Rhodes, E. Hill and Brangwin.

January 19^th.- Return Billiard Match, Pickwick B.C. v Surrey B.C., was played on this date at the Manchester Hotel, the Surrey Bicycle Club being our guests, and they gained a victory of three games to two. About thirty representatives of both clubs were present, and a very pleasant evening was passed.

January 30^th.- A Club walk under the leadership of Mr. H. Mann, was taken from Bromley to Addington. Eighteen members attended and traversed nine miles of interesting country, and spent a most enjoyable social evening afterwards.

March 7^th.- Messrs. Boulter, Duesbury and Rhodes elected delegate to the N.C.U.

March 19^th, Opening Run to Chingford.- Sixty-four sat down to tea. A large contingent of the Stanley Cycling Club and several others came in to the smoking concert and brought up the number to 120. There was a fine array of musical talent, and all went off in first-rate style.

March25th.- Billiard Match at the Manchester Hotel, at which the Pickwick Bicycle Club entertained the Stanley Cycling Club and had a jolly evening, though our Club attendance was very poor. We won 3 games, the Stanley 2.

April 15^th to 18^th, Easter Tour.- Good Friday morning: train to Richmond, arriving there 9.57 a.m., by Esher, Ripley, and lunch at White Hart, Guildford, then by Farnham and White Hill to Petersfield, where dine and sleep at the Dolphin. Saturday: Bordeam, Gorse and Warnford to Fareham, for lunch at the Royal Oak, then Titchfield and Netley to Southampton for the night (the Dolphin). Sunday: Otterbourne, Winchester, &c., to Basingstoke, lunch at Red Lion, dine and sleep at Reading (Queen’s Hotel), Easter Monday: Shiplake and Great Marlow to Beaconsfield for lunch, then Chalfont St. Peter and Watford to Barnet, where the party separated. Fifteen members and visitors attended, and managed to enjoy themselves though the weather was very cold, with strong head winds. On the Saturday a visit was paid to Netley Abbey.

May 21^st.- Twelve members accepted the invitation of Lord Mutanhed (S.C. Rhodes) to join him in a ride to Brook End, Shenley, Bucks., and be his guests to dinner at the Crown Inn, at that place. Train was taken to Watford, and the ride was via Abbots Langley, Hemel Hempstead, and Leighton Buzzard, to Shenley. The programme was carried out as anyone who knows Lord Mutanhed might be certain it would be, greatly to the enjoyment of his guests. The following day the party rode back, dining at Luton on the way. The weather was fine throughout and the roads good.

June 3^rd to 8^th, Whitsun Tour in Normandy.- The Captain, nine members and a friend carried out this tour, and were favoured with good weather and roads. I have no details as to places visited, but everyone who went thoroughly enjoyed the trip.

June 25^th.- TWENTY-MILE HANDICAP (Hitchin to Eaton Socon). Officials: Starter, E. Hollands; Checker en route, H.C. Hill; Timekeeper and Judge, the Captain. Three prizes. Result:-

1	J.J. Hardy	4 mins. Start	net time 54 m. 10 s.
2	S.H. Elliott	11 mins. Start	net time 55 m. 40 s.
3	E. Hill	8 mins start	net time 55 m. 59 s.
4	S.C. Rhodes	scratch	net time 58 m. 15 s.
5	H. Kirkham	2 mins. Start	net time 58 m. 45 s.
	E.M. Hardy	5 mins. Start	puncture
	J.H. Anderson	non-starter

A very successful race, except E.M. Hardy’s puncture. The Captain and Master Bardell were with the competitors at St. Neots, and all enjoyed some boating on the river in the evening. A pleasant ride home was enjoyed on the following day, the party dining at the Cock at Hitchin en route.

July 23^rd.- Charley Challenge Cup. FIFTY-MILE ROAD HANDICAP (third race). Weather fine, but wind too high. Result:-

1	H. Kirkham	5 min. start	net time 2 h. 51 m. 30 s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	1 min. start	net time 3 h. 5 m. 25 s.
3	S.H. Elliott	25 min. start	net time 3 h. 5 m. 30 s.
4	E. Hill	14 min. start	net time 3 h. 11 m. 15 s.
5	E.M. Hardy	scratch	tyre punctured
6	J.H. Anderson	27 min. start	tyre punctured
7	J.J. Hardy	scratch	non-starter

After a social evening the members enjoyed a pleasant ride back to Town next day.

July 28^th to August 8^th.- The Southern Counties Camp was again held at the Poultry Farm, Dorking. The weather was very fine nearly the whole time. Eighteen of our members attended, some remaining at the camp nearly all the time, and all seemed to have enjoyed the holiday.

September 10^th.- The Sub-Captain had charge of a run from Croydon to Brighton on this date. It was attended by eleven members. The weather was fine, and everything passed off very successfully.

September 19^th.- TWENTY-MILE HANDICAP (Hitchin to Eaton Socon). Three prizes. Result:-

1	J.H. Anderson	10 min. start	net time 54 m. 30 s.
2	S.H. Elliott	10 min. start	net time 1 h. 0 m. 30 s.
3	E.M. Hardy	scratch	net time 1 h. 1 m. 2 s.
4	J.J. Hardy	scratch	net time 1 h. 1 m. 2½ s.
5	E. Hill	7½ min. start	net time 1 h. 2 m. 50 s.
6	S.C. Rhodes	scratch	net time 1 h. 6 m. 12 s.

September 19^th.- E.M. Hardy rode 261 miles 6 furlongs within 24 hours, and obtained the Club gold medal for the performance.

I have now to record a very sad event:- the death of our highly esteemed friend and fellow member, W.C. Docking, which took place on November 1^st, after a short illness, from typhoid fever, at the early age of 42. A true gentleman and a sportsman, William Docking won the respect and affection of all with whom he came in contact, and in him the Club lost one of its best and truest friends. About a dozen of us followed him to the grave in the pretty churchyard of Nortbaw, near Potters Bar, where he rests: “Gone, but not forgotten.”

September 24^th.- TWENTY-FIVE MILE PATH HANDICAP. Ridden on the Kensal Rise Track. First prize, value 5 guineas, presented by Mr. J.W. Beningfield; Second and Third prizes by the Club. Result:-

1	S.C. Rhodes	2 min. start	net time 1 h. 9 m. 0 s.
2	J.H. Anderson	3 min. start	net time 1 h. 10 m. 10 s.
3	E.M. Hardy	scratch	net time 1 h. 11 m. 10 s.
4	E. Hill	8 min. start	net time 1 h. 18 m. 10 s.
5	J. Atto	13 min. start	net time 1 h. 18 m. 15 s.
	S.H. Elliott, retired at 18 miles 1 lap.
	J.J. Hardy, machine failed at 14 miles 1 lap.

Twenty-four members attended the track to witness the race, in some cases bringing their wives with them.

October 8^th, Closing Run to Chingford.- About ninety members and friends attended and had a most successful meeting, Mr. Blotton’s musical programme again receiving special mention, he being accorded a hearty vote of thanks for the same.

November 22^nd.- Twenty-four members attended the Stanley Show at the Agricultural Hall and received a very friendly welcome and entertainment at the hands of the Stanley Club.

November 26^th.- Club walk from Chesham to Rickmansworth, under the leadership of Mr. Duesbury. Fourteen members attended, and although the weather was not first-rate, an enjoyable walk was obtained and a pleasant evening after, before returning to Town.

December 3^rd.- The twenty-third Annual Dinner took place on this date at the London Tavern, under the chairmanship of Mr. Shirley Fussell, the President. Seventy-seven members and friends sat down, and all was as successful as usual. I notice among the Club’s guests were the captains of the Surrey Bicycle Club and Stanley Cycling Club, Mr. Hartung, of The Cyclist, and Mr. E.A. Powell, of The Referee. At this Dinner the first collection for The Referee Children’s Dinner Fund was made, the amount collected being £6 6s. 6d.

December 19^th.- A musical and social evening was held at the club-room, twenty-seven members and friends being present. This is the first of those social events which have since taken place annually a few days before Christmas, and have for some years past got to be known as “The Annual Garden Party.” (Why so called I do not know.- W.E.B.). In former days they were accompanied by plum pudding and punch; now, I believe (I do not attend them myself) the punch still remains, but the plum pudding is a thing of the past; perhaps some of the older members cannot digest it – but they can the punch.

1893

January 10^th.- A Billiard Match took place at the headquarters of the Surrey Bicycle Club, Southampton Buildings, W.C., on this date between that club and the Pickwick Bicycle Club, our players being R.C. Armstrong, J.F. Burge, H.P. Turner, W. Hardy and J.H. Anderson. Our Club won 3 games to our opponent’s 2, the first three names placed being the winners.

January 23^rd, Twenty-third Annual General Meeting.- The following elections were made for the various offices for the year:- President, none; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. W.E. Maverly, J. Bryant, J.W. Beningfield, S. Fussell; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captains, S.H. Elliott; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake; Committee, H. Duesbury, S.C. Rhodes, H. Kirkham, H.V. Smith, E.Hill. Messrs. Boulter, Duesbury and Rhodes were again elected as delegates to the N.C.U..

February 13^th.- Tom Wildspark (A.C. Stock) gave an interesting lantern display at headquarters, attended by twenty-two members. Some music afterwards, when A.A. Pike acted as accompanist.

February 18^th.- The Captain’s walk from Epping to Chigwell was very successful, a dozen members attending. Tea was taken at the King’s Head, and a musical evening followed.

February 22^nd.- The return Billiard Match v Surrey Bicycle Club was played at the Manchester Hotel, the Surrey Bicycle Club winning three games to two. Mr. A.R. Lockwood, Surrey B.C., played his second hundred points in seventeen minutes.

March 2^nd.- A Billiard Match at Stanley Cycling Club headquarters, Seven Sisters Road. Eighteen of our members attended. There were only four games played; our representatives being Messrs. J.F. Burge, W. Hardy, T.H. Coombs, and K.M. Yeoman, the first three named all winning their games. After the match an adjustment was made to the reading room, where music and singing filled up the remainder of the evening.

March 18^th.- Opening run to the Forest Hotel, Chingford. Fifty-six members and friends sat down to tea, several joining the company afterwards. The usual array of musical talent was provided, and was well appreciated.

March 31^st to April 3^rd, Easter Tour.- Started from Kew on Good Friday morning, at ten o’clock, riding by Staines and Bagshot to Blackwater; lunch at White Hart, then by Basingstoke to Winchester (56½ miles), for the night at the Black Swan. Saturday: Romsey, Cadnam, &c., to Ringwood; lunch at the Crown, dine and sleep at Poole (41½ miles). Sunday: Bournemouth and Christchurch to Lyndhurst; lunch at the Crown, then Southampton and Winchester to Alton (64 miles), dine and sleep at the Swan. Easter Monday: Bentley Green to Guildford; lunch at White Hart, then Ripley and Esher to Richmond (39½ miles), where train was taken back to Dalston. Twenty-one members and two visitors went for this tour; Mr. Jingle, and his friend Mr. “Paddy” Green, joining the party at Alton on Sunday. The weather was good throughout, except that on the outward journey a strong head wind was experienced, which unfortunately turned right round, and presented the same unwelcome front on the return. The party had a jolly time; and I find noted as special contributors to the entertainment, Messrs. Welps, Dodson, Blotton, and Nockemorf.

April 10^th, General Meeting – At this period, owing to a severe domestic bereavement, the Hon. Mr. Crushton felt unable to continue his duties as Hon. Secretary, and tendered his resignation, which was kindly accepted. Mr. Blotton (E. Hollands) was appointed Hon. Secretary pro tem in his stead.

April 27^th.- The Racing Circular, issued on this date, informs members that the two twenty-mile handicaps would be ridden on the track instead of the road this year; and, if my memory serves me rightly, it was about this time that the National Cyclists’ Union began to set their faces against road racing, and also the police became too attentive in the same direction – and I cannot help thinking rightly so in the public interest. A little later on we shall find that, owing to these causes, open road racing was quite abolished.

May 13^th.- Inter-club run with London Scottish, Rovers, and Dartmouth Park clubs to the Old Salisbury, Barnet. The Stanley Cycling Club joined the party at tea, and a good smoking concert followed; thirteen Pickwicks attended.

June 5^th.- The general meeting of this date was converted into a “special”, and Mr. Edward Hill (Mr. Smangle) was elected Hon. Secretary.

June 20^th.-TWENTY-MILE PATH HANDICAP ((Kensal Rise track). Times taken by Mr. Harry Swindley, official timekeeper National Cyclists Union. Result:-

1	J. Atto	14 m. start	net time 51 m. 22½ s.
2	E. Hill	13 m. start	net time 52 m. 22½ s.
3	S.H. Elliott	14 m. start	net time 52 m. 27½ s.
4	F.J. Oakden	3 m. start	net time 55 m. 12½ s.
5	S.C. Rhodes	1 m. start	56 m. 8½ s.
6	F.W. Briggs	scratch	57 m.

Between thirty and forty members and friends were present to witness the race, which took place in fine weather. Before starting, the competitors were photographed by Tom Wildspark (Mr. A.C. Stock), which photograph forms a conspicuous ornament in the club-room at the present time.

June 24^th.- Inter-club run with the Stanley Cycling Club, starting from Richmond, then via Ripley (tea), Guildford and Farnham to Alton, where dinner and a social evening completed the day’s doings. On Sunday the return journey was made via Oldham to Blackwater for dinner, where Colonel Savile and a further contingent of the Stanley Cycling Club were met. The Colonel kindly conducted the party through the grounds of Sandhurst College, after which they proceeded to Staines for tea, and then began to separate; our members mostly riding back with the Stanley men to their club house. Eight Pickwicks participated in this outing.

In the Club Circular dated 29^th June, it was announced that the Pickwick Lodge, No 2467, had been consecrated on the 13^th inst., and that the Captain and four other members of the Club would be the first initiates; these were T.J. Boulter, K.M. Yeoman, H.C. Hill, J. Atto, and W. Ulrich. The initiations duly took place, and all with exception of the last named, who resigned, are now Past Masters of the Lodge.

July 15^th.- HUNDRED-MILES SCRATCH ROAD RACE. Fifty miles on North Road from Hitchin and back. First prize value three guineas and Club gold medal to the winner, should the time be 6 h. 15 m. or less; silver medals for 7 h. 45 m.; bronze for 9 hours.

Officials:- Starter and Judge, W.E. Blake; Checker at Tingey’s Farm, H. Mann; Checker at Buckden, F.J. Blake. Result:-

		50 miles	100 miles
1	F.W. Briggs	3 h. 8 m. 30 s.	6 h. 17 m. 0 s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	3 h. 5 m. 0 s.	6 h. 46 m. 30 s.
3	F.J. Oakden	3 h. 5 m. 0 s.	6 h. 51 m. 30 s.
4	J. Atto	3 h. 21 m. 0 s.	6 h. 51 m. 40 s.
5	S.H. Elliott	3 h. 22 m. 30 s.	8 h. 35 m. 30 s.

E. Hill also started, but retired at 45 miles. The first four took silver medals, and Mr. Elliott a bronze.

A very enjoyable evening was spent at the Cock, Hitchin, where the party were joined next morning at breakfast by Messrs. Pickwick and Welps.

August 3^rd to 14^th.- The Southern Counties Cyclists’ Camp was again held at the Poultry Farm, Dorking, but was this year, as far as our Club was concerned, a frost. In the August 8^th Circular, the Hon. Secretary states that the camp was being very poorly attended, and there is no further notice of it. I think the members got tired of that sort of thing.

August 19^th.- Charley Challenge Cup (fourth year). FIFTY-MILE NORTH ROAD HANDICAP. Officials: Starter and Judge, H. Duesbury.; Checker at Tingey’s Farm, H.A. Jacobs; Checker at Buckden, H.V. Smith. Result:-

1	E. Hill	29 m. start	net time, 2 h. 50 m.
2	S.C. Rhodes	7 m. start	net time, 2 h. 51 m.
3	F.W. Briggs	scratch	net time, 3 h. 5 m.
4	W. Anderson	10 m. start	net time, 3 h. 5 m. 5 s.
5	J. Atto	18 m. start	net time, 3 h. 6 m. 30 s.
	S.H. Elliott	Tyre punctured
	F.J. Oakden	Tyre punctured

There was a very strong head wind on the return journey.

August 26^th.- There was another inter-club run with the Stanley Cycling Club on this date, to Wendover; but the enthusiasm inspired by the last one seems to have fizzled out, as only three Pickwicks attended, though the Stanleys were well represented.

During this month (August) our veteran Nathaniel Pipkin rode 281 miles within 24 hours, in the North Road Club 24 hours competition, and finished fresh and strong (he was sixty years of age at the time). The gold medal of the Club was awarded for this performance.

There was a run to Brighton on September the 9^th, under the guidance of the Sub-Captain (S.H. Elliott), returning next day. The weather was fine, and everyone voted the outing very successful.

September 13^th.- TWENTY-MILE PATH HANDICAP (Kensal Rise track). Officials: Starter and Judge, H. Duesbury; Lapscorers, W.E. Blake and E. Hollands; Timekeeper, Mr. Harold Cook (N.A.A.). Result:-

1	S.C. Rhodes	30 s. start	net time, 56 m. 30 s.
2	W. Anderson	45 s. start	net time, 56 m. 33 s.
3	F.J. Oakden	1 m. 45 s. start	net time, 56 m. 36 s.
4	F.W. Briggs	scratch	net time, 57 m. 34 s.
5	S.H. Elliott	9 m. start	net time, 1 h. 0 m. 25 s.
6	A.E. Broadberry	10 m. 30 s. start	net time, 1 h. 0 m. 30 s.

Also started, J. Atto, tyre punctured; E. Hill, retired.

October 7^th, Closing Run to Chingford.- The weather was wretched, and the attendance consequently not so good as usual, but an enjoyable evening was spent; in the musical contributions, the names of Messrs. E. Hollands, E.P. Thompson, Albert Jacobs, and J.E. Lawler, are specially mentioned.

November 4^th.- A Club walk under the leadership of F.J. Oakden, starting from St. Albans; the weather was bad, and only four members attended.

November 20^th.- Between twenty and twenty-five members attended the Stanley Show, and were received and entertained by the Stanley Cycling Club, in their usual hospitable manner.

November 28^th.- Billiard Match v Surrey Bicycle Club, at their headquarters, Southampton Buildings. Our players were Messrs. W. Hardy, J.F. Burge, J.H. Anderson, F.W. Briggs and T.H. Coombs. As to billiards, the Surrey gained a complete victory; eighteen of our members attended, and received hospitable entertainment from our hosts.

December 9^th.- Twenty-fourth Annual Dinner, at the Holborn Restaurant, Sir W.T. Charley, Q.C., in the chair. Sixty-three members and friends attended; everything passed off in an excellent manner. A collection for The Referee Children’s Dinner Fund amounted to £4 10 s. 6 d.

December 12^th.- A Billiard Match, Pickwick B.C. v Stanley C.C., at which the latter were our Club’s guests, was played at Beale’s Restaurant, Holloway Road, on this date. The Stanley C.C. won four games out of five, Tom Smart (F.W. Briggs) being our only winner. About thirty-five members of both clubs attended, and had a very pleasant evening.

December 18^th.- Ante-Christmas Soiree Musicale, at headquarters, for which occasion the Orion kindly lent their large room on the ground floor, which was gaily decorated with flags and Chinese lanterns. Thirty-nine members and friends attended. The arrangements were in the hands of Count Smorltork, who took the chair, and presided over a particularly festive gathering. Shiny Villiam, who had undergone a severe illness during the year, put in an appearance, and was warmly welcomed back; he, as usual, kindly assisted at the piano.

1894

January 29^th, Twenty-fourth Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. W.E. Maverly; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Bryant, Beningfield, Fussell, Jacobs, and Robey; Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, E. Hill; Committee, Messrs. Blake, Kirkham, H.V. Smith, Briggs, and Oakden. Messrs. Boulter, Duesbury, and Rhodes were again elected delegates to N.C.U..

February 10^th.- Sub-Captain’s walk from Willesden Junction to Harrow; tea at the Railway Hotel. Twelve members attended, and had a pleasant time.

February 12^th.- Billiard Match v Surrey Bicycle Club, played at the Yorkshire Grey, Gray’s Inn Road. The Surrey Bicycle Club were our guests on this occasion. There were only about twenty members of both Clubs present, and being short of three of our regular players, our opponents won four out of five games played. Our representatives were Messrs. Hardy, Burge, T.H. Coombs, F.J. Blake and W.E. Blake.

March 6^th.- Billiard Match v Stanley Cycling Club, at Stanley C.C. headquarters, Seven Sisters Road. Stanley won 4 games to 1.

March 10^th, Opening Run to Chingford.- Sixty-six members and friends sat down to tea, and were afterwards joined by twenty or thirty members of the Stanley Cycling Club. A lantern display was given by Tom Wildspark (Mr. A.C. Stock), and an excellent musical programme completed a most successful evening.

March 23^rd to 26^th, Easter Tour.- Starting from the Eagle, Snaresbrook, on Good Friday morning at 9 o’clock, by Ilford and Rainham to Grays, where ferry across the river to Gravesend, and so to Rochester; lunch at King’s Head, then by Boxley Hill, Berstead and Lenham to Ashford, 52 miles, dine and sleep at the George. Saturday: Sellinge and Dymchurch to New Romney, lunch at the Ship, then by Rye and Winchelsea to Battle, 41½ miles, dine and sleep at the George. Sunday: Vine Hall and Robertsbridge to Hurst Green, lunch at the George, then by Ticehurst and Frant to Tunbridge Wells, 23 miles; dine and sleep at the Castle. Easter Monday: Tonbridge to Sevenoaks, lunch at the Bicycle; then by Riverhead, Orpington, St. Mary Cray and Sidcup, to Woolwich, ferry across river, and back by Forest Gate to the Eagle at Snaresbrook, 39 miles. Twenty members carried out the tour under most favourable circumstances, weather and roads being excellent. The Captain’s account in the April Circular is exceedingly joyous in tone.

The runs for April were:- 7^th, Goff’s Oak; 14^th, Upminster; 21^st, Nazing Common; 28^th, Stamford Rivers.

May 5^th.- Inter-club run with the London Scottish, Rovers, and Dartmouth Park clubs to the Old Salisbury, at Barnet. This gathering was very successful and well attended. The Captain of the Rovers occupied the chair, and an excellent smoking concert followed the tea, Messrs. Blotton, Bardell, and Lord Mutanhed contributing to the harmony.

July 3^rd.- TWENTY-MILE PATH HANDICAP (Kensal Rise track). Weather good. Result:-

1	J. Atto	9 m. start	net time, 55 m. 6 s.
2	F.J. Oakden	2 m. start	net time, 55 m. 29 s.
3	E. Hill	7 m. 30 s. start	time not taken.

Messrs. Rhodes and Briggs started from scratch; time not taken.

July 14^th.- HUNDRED-MILES SCRATCH RACE (fifty miles on North Road, and back). Officials: Starter and Judge, T.J. Boulter; Checker at Tingey’s Farm, H. Mann; Checker at Buckden, A.E. Broadberry.

		50 miles	100 miles
1	F.W. Briggs	2 h. 49 m. 53 s.	5 h. 52 m. 40 s.
2	F.J. Oakden	3 h. 13 m. 20 s.	6 h. 59 m. 9 s.
3	E. Hill	3 h. 13 m. 20 s.	7 h. 0 m. 44 s.
	S.C. Rhodes, machine broke down.

The winner took Club gold medal for time, the other two, silver medals.

July 28^th.- Charley Challenge Cup. FIFTY-MILE NORTH ROAD HANDICAP (fifth year). Officials: Starter and Judge, T.J. Boulter; Checker at Tingey’s , H.A. Jacobs; Checker at Buckden, H.C. Hill. Result:-

1	J. Atto	28 m. start	net time, 2 h. 51 m. 30 s.
2	E. Hill	23 m. start	net time, 2 h. 56 m. 40 s.
3	F.J. Oakden	14 m. start	net time, 2 h. 59 m. 34 s.
	S.C. Rhodes	7 m. start	non-starter.
	F.W. Briggs	scratch	non-starter.

September 1^st.- Inter-club run with Stanley C.C. to Wendover, via Wood Green and Watford; return next day via Tring. Six members of our Club attended and about twenty of the Stanley. All had a very good time.

September 4^th.- TWENTY-MILE PATH HANDICAP (Kensal Rise track). Officials: Starter and Judge, T.J. Boulter; Lapscorer, W.E. Blake; Timekeeper, S.C. Rhodes. Result:-

1	F.W. Briggs	scratch	net time, 57 m. 40 .
2	F.J. Oakden	1 m. start	net time, 58 m. 40 s.
3	E. Hollands	6½ m. start	net time, 1 h. 2 m. 57 s.
	H. Kirkham and J. Atto, non-starters.

October 13^th, Closing Run.- This took place in fine weather, to Chingford for the last time, but the number of forty-five only sitting down to tea was disappointing; however, a good many more turned up during the evening, and the room got well filled, and a very excellent musical programme was enjoyed by all.

November.- I have now to write an introduction to a new era in the history of the Club. For a long time past it had been felt that the accommodation afforded us at the Orion Gymnasium, consisting of the use of a committee room for a few hours on one evening in the week, was totally inadequate to our wants, and acted as a bar to the progress and expansion of the Club. As long before as 1890, when Hon. Secretary, I went to a good deal of trouble to find some suitable place to move to, and corresponded with the Great Eastern Railway Company as to the renting of railway arches – in a similar way to that done by the Brixton Ramblers at their headquarters at Loughborough Junction; also with the Amhurst Club, for the use of part of their premises. But nothing came of these attempts, and the matter stood in abeyance; till, in 1894, it seemed to suddenly spring to life again, I think mainly at the instance, in the first place, of Tom Wildspark, and the result was that on 16^th of May in that year, a special committee, consisting of the following members: Watson Dyer (Chairman), K.M. Yeoman, A.C. Stock, S.C. Rhodes and E. Hollands, with Mr. Smangle as Hon. Secretary, was appointed to go into the whole matter, and report to a general meeting of the Club.

A special general meeting was held at Mullen’s Hotel, Ironmonger Lane, E.C., on May 30^th, to receive the sub-committee’s report. The probabilities of the scheme had been most carefully worked out, both as to revenue required, and expenditure on rent, furniture, &c., necessary. After due discussion the committee’s report was adopted, and they were empowered to act. The result was that our present Club Rooms, at 18, Eldon Street, were taken, and fitted up in the manner that our members of the present time see them. The expense of furnishing amounted to £200, and this was met, partly by an appropriation of part of the reserve fund, and partly by private subscriptions, the members coming forward in a thoroughly loyal spirit, and with such good effect, that in a short time the Club was “running strong” and clear of debt.

The acquisition of the new Headquarters brought an influx of new members, and those were of two classes, the riding members, and “associates,” the latter being admitted at a lower entrance fee and subscription than the full members, and having no power of voting at general meetings. Within the last year, for financial reasons, it has been deemed advisable to abolish associate membership.

The opening of the rooms took place on November 5^th, and was a memorable occasion. A formidable-looking attendance book received the members and visitors signatures; the walls, &c., were gaily decorated, and the proceedings commenced with a billiard match between our Mr. Struggles (Jesse Hill) and Mr. A.R. Lockwood, Hon. Secretary of the Surrey B.C.. An impromptu musical programme was carried out very successfully. The number of members and visitors attending was eighty-six. During the proceedings, Mr. H. Mann (Mr. Dodson) proposed a vote of thanks to the Committee for the manner in which they had carried out their important work, making particular reference to the invaluable services of Tom Wildspark in connection therewith. The toast of the “Surrey B.B.” and “the Visitors” was proposed by the Hon. Mr. Crushton, and responded to by Mr. A.R. Lockwood. Mr. Willie Wright officiated at the piano. Altogether the new venture had an enthusiastic “send-off,” and after over nine years’ experience, I think we may all congratulate ourselves on its being a well-established success.

We shall now proceed to chronicle the doings of the Club under the new conditions, but shall find that as the racing dies out, and that the Club runs become more of week-end outings by a few of the members, the records will be shorter, and more concise, as shown in the “Events of the Year,” which have appeared for some years past in the annual general meeting Circular.

December 1^st.- The twenty-fifth Annual Dinner was held at the London Tavern, under the Chairmanship of Mr. W.E. Maverly, President. Eighty-three members and friends sat down, and a most successful evening was spent.

December 18^th.- A Billiard Match with the Surrey B.C. was played at the Club’s headquarters on this date, the result being:-

A.R. Lockwood, S.B.C., beat Jesse Hill, P.B.C., by 65; 200 up.

A. Pridmore, P.B.C. beat A. Read, S.B.C., by 1; 200 up.

E. Gould, P.B.C., beat G.R. Buckland, S.B.C., by 24; 150 up.

G. Wiggington, S.B.C., beat T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., by 3; 150 up.

C.J. Cowley, S.B.C., beat R.C. Armstrong, P.B.C., by 12; 100 up.

December 22^nd._The annual “Garden Party” at headquarters. An excellent supper was served, to which nearly fifty sat down. Count Smorltork in the chair; followed by a smoking concert. Mr. Willie Wright at the piano. During the proceedings a presentation was made to Mr. Smangle, Hon. Secretary, of an epergne, in recognition of the able manner in which he had fulfilled the duties of his office since his election. Mr. Smangle expressed his acknowledgements in suitable terms.

1895

January 16^th.- A Billiard Match v Stanley Cycling Club. Played at Headquarters. Result:-

R. Osborne, S.C.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C. by 8; 200 up.

W.G. Teed, S.C.C., beat J.F. Burge, P.B.C. by 24; 100 up.

E. Gould, P.B.C., beat B. Fielding, S.C.C. by 10; 150 up.

F.H. Gibson, P.B.C., beat W.J. Newton, S.C.C., by 47; 150 up.

J. Hill, P.B.C., beat G.A. Lamb, S.C.C., by 33; 100 up.

A good number of Stanley men attended.

January 28^th, Twenty-fifth Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. J. Sloughgrove; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Maverly, Fussell, Bryant, Beningfield, Robey, Jacobs and Riehmer. Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Sub-Captain, F.W. Briggs; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill. Committee: T.J. Boulter, K.M. Yeoman, A. Fenton, H.V. Smith and S. Fussell. Messrs. Boulter, Duesbury and Rhodes were appointed delegates to the N.C.U..

February 9^th.- On this date there was a smoking concert held at headquarters, though no particulars of same are recorded in the following Circular, which is a great pity, as a very important and interesting ceremony took place on that occasion, in the presentation of a handsome clock and side ornaments to Mr. T.J. Boulter, who had held the office of Captain of the Club for eleven years, and had retired at the last annual general meeting, much to the regret of all his fellow members. Presumably the new Captain, Mr. S.C. Rhodes, occupied this chair, and I have no doubt the virtues of his predecessor were duly extolled by him, and acclaimed by the meeting in a worthy manner.

February 12^th.- Billiard Match at Headquarters v Surrey Bicycle Club. Result:-

J. Hill, P.B.C., beat A. Reed, S.B.C., by 16; 200 up.

F.B. Gibson, P.B.C., beat G. Cowley, S.B.C., by 20; 100 up.

E. Gould, P.B.C., beat G.R. Buckland, S.B.C., by 21; 200 up.

T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., beat W. Thrupp, S.B.C., by 34; 100 up.

E.J. Wigginton, S.B.C., beat J.H. Anderson, P.B.C., by 61; 150 up.

February 27^th.- The last Billiard Match of the season v Stanley Cycling Club, at the Stanley Headquarters, Seven Sisters Road, only four games played. Result:-

R. Osborne, S.C.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C., by 107; 200 up.

W. Hart, S.C.C., beat F.B. Gibson, P.B.C., by 89; 200 up.

W.H. Easterbrook, S.C.C., beat T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., by 28; 100 up.

March 9^th, Opening Meeting at Headquarters.- The first of these meetings at our new premises was a great success; about seventy members and friends attending. An excellent supper was provided, and a capital smoking concert followed. The Captain, Mr. S.C. Rhodes, occupied the chair, and everything passed off splendidly.

April 12^th to 15^th, Easter Tour.- The start was from Watford at 10.45 on Good Friday morning, by Berkhampstead to Tring (16½ miles), lunch at Rose and Crown; then by Aylesbury and Blackthorn Heath to Bicester (39½ miles); dine and sleep at King’s Arms. Saturday, to Chipping Norton (19½ miles), for lunch at White Hart; then by Fulbrook, Black Bourton, &c., to Faringdon (41 miles), for the night at the Crown. Sunday, to Lambourne (13 miles), for lunch at the Red Lion; then by Great Shefford, &c., to Newbury (25 miles); dine and sleep at the Queen’s Hotel. Easter Monday, Thatcham, Reading, &c., to Wokingham (24 miles), lunch at the Rose Hotel, then Virginia Water, Staines, Kew Bridge to Richmond Station. Sixteen members attended the tour. The weather, from Mr. Pickwick’s account, had “to be braved,” but there is not much of a descriptive nature to reproduce from the Circular.

May 4^th.- An inter-club run with the London Scottish, Rovers and Dartmouth Park Clubs to the Old Salisbury at Barnet. Thirteen Pickwicks attended the usual tea and smoking concert, and an excellent evening was spent.

May 6^th.- At the general meeting on this date, the Club decided to allow the Pickwick Lodge of Instruction the exclusive use of the reading room for two hours every Tuesday evening, to hold their meetings, a concession which has been highly appreciated by the P.L.I..

In the Circular dated May 29^th, is given the result of the first Billiard Handicap played at headquarters. Games 200 up; 26 entries; Final Heats as follows:-

F.H. Bell, rec. 115, (1^st prize) beat F.B. Gibson, scr. (2^nd prize), by 50

W. Hardy, rec. 40. (3^rd prize) beat T.H. Coombs. Rec. 20, by 47

The run on May 11^th to Nazing Common was attended by fourteen members and four friends.

A run to Southend arranged for the 18^th May, on the invitation of Bill Stumps (Mr. F.H. Bell), was much marred by bad weather, but ten members did turn up to enjoy the hospitality of their host, and enjoyed the time exceedingly.

On June 10^th, there was a smoking concert at headquarters, which was attended by about thirty-five members, when the prizes won in the first Billiard Handicap were presented. The President made an appropriate speech for the occasion. The musical programme was contributed to by Messrs. F. Johnson, Hollands, Rhodes, Riehmer, &c.. Mr. Willie Wright at the piano.

June 22^nd.- Inter-club run with the Stanley Cycling Club to Haslemere, was attended by ten “Pickwicks,” and a good number of “Stanleys,” the Pickwick Bicycle Club party being in the charge of the Sub-Captain, Mr. F.W. Briggs. The return journey on the following day was via Farnham and Guildford.

On July 1^st in this year, the office of Assistant Hon. Secretary was created, and bestowed upon the Hon. Mr. Crushton, and has been held by that unworthy ever since.

July 2^nd.- TWENTY-MILE PATH HANDICAP (Kensal Rise track). Result:-

1	F.J. Oakden	2 m. start	net time 1 h. 1 m. 35 s.
2	F.W. Briggs	scratch	net time 1 h. 2 m. 32 s.
3	S.C. Rhodes	scratch	did not finish.

Very good times, considering the high wind which prevailed.

August 27^th.- ONE-MILE HANDICAP (Kensal Rise track). Result:-

1	F.W. Briggs	scratch	2 m. 38½ s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	90 yards
	F.J. Oakden	70 yards
	E. Hill	90 yards
	FIVE-MILE HANDIACAP Result:-
1	F.W. Briggs	scratch	14 m. 25½ s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	500 yards
	F.J. Oakden	350 yards
	E. Hill	450 yards

Won by 4 yards. A stiff wind was blowing. Only two members besides the competitors attended.

September 7^th.- Charley Challenge Cup. FIFTY-MILE ROAD HANDICAP (sixth year). Result:-

Starter, E. Hill. Judge, T.J. Boulter.

1	F.W. Briggs	scratch	net time 2 h. 54 m. 0 s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	10 m. start	net time 2 h. 54 m. 1 s.
3	J. Atto	27 m. start	3 h. 1 m. 0 s.

The weather was good; there had been a great thunder and rain storm in the morning, and the roads were very heavy in parts. The Sub-Captain took a silver medal for time.

September 14^th.- HUNDRED-MILE SCRATCH RACE.

Only two starters. Officials: Starter and Judge, E. Hollands; Checker at Tingey’s Farm, G. Palmer; Checker at Buckden, S. Fussell. Result:-

		50 miles	100 miles
1	F.W. Briggs	2 h. 40 m. 0 s.	5 h. 39 m. 30 s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	3 h. 4 m. 30 s.	6 h. 43 m. 0 s

The winner took the Club gold medal as well as the prize, and the Captain a silver medal for time.

November 2^nd, Closing Meeting at Headquarters.- Sixty members and friends sat down to supper, and no less than 100 were present during the evening. An excellent concert followed the supper, the programme included performances by Messrs. E.P. Thompson, F.W. Ulrich, E. Hollands, F. Johnson, and L.V. Smith (violin), and some good part singing by the Pickwick Glee Party.

December 7^th.- The twenty-sixth Annual Dinner held at the London Tavern. Mr. J. Sloughgrove, the President, occupied the chair, and eighty members and friends were present; among the visitors being Mr. Geo. R. Sims (Dagonet), of The Referee. A collection was made for The Referee Children’s Dinner Fund, amounting to £15. The musical arrangements, in the hands of Mr. Blotton, as usual were eminently successful, and altogether a most enjoyable evening was spent.

December 14^th.- A Club walk took place under the leadership of Mr. Staple (Mr. R. Masters); was only attended by four other members. The party walked about eight miles over Hayes Common, returning to Bromley to tea, where the number was increased to fifteen, and a pleasant evening ensued.

December 21^st.- The annual Garden Party was very poorly attended. Count Smorltork was in the chair and some very excellent music was rendered by members. Mr. George De Pledge put in an appearance, and delighted the company with several songs in his well-known splendid style.

1896

January 7th.- Billiard Match at Surrey Bicycle Club Headquarters, Chancery Lane. Four games only were played on account of time. Result:-

R. Pridmore, P.B.C., beat A.R. Lockwood, S.B.C., by 53; 200 up.

T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., beat G.N. Butler, S.B.C., by 13; 150 up.

F.W. Briggs, P.B.C., beat G.R. Buckland, S.B.C., by 83; 150 up.

G. Capern, S.B.C., beat F.B. Gibson, P.B.C., by 12; 150 up.

Seventeen Pickwicks attended and had a jolly evening. A vote of thanks, with musical honours, being accorded the Surrey Bicycle Club for their hospitality.

January 27^th.- Twenty-sixth Annual General Meeting when the following gentlemen were elected to fill the various offices for the ensuing year:- President, Mr. T.J. Boulter; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. W.E. Maverly, S. Fussell, J. Bryant, J.W. Beningfield, G.D. Robey, H.A. Jacobs, O. Riehmer and J. Sloughgrove; Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Sub-Captain, F.W. Briggs; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake. Messrs. Boulter, Blake and Oaken were appointed delegates to the N.C.U..

At this meeting Mr. W.E. Maverly and Mr. George R. Sims were created honorary members of the Club.

A very important resolution was moved by Mr. Boulter in the following terms:- “That in the opinion of this meeting the small support given to racing in the Pickwick Bicycle Club does not warrant the committee in continuing to hold races.” Much discussion ensued on this subject, and it was ultimately decided that only one race should be held in the year, viz., for the Charley Challenge Cup, which had not been won twice in succession, or three times in all, making it the absolute property of the winner.

January 29^th.- Billiard Match v. Stanley Cycling Club, played at Pickwick Bicycle Club Headquarters. Result:-

J. Hill, P.B.C., beat R. Osborne, S.C.C., by 101; 250 up.

F.B. Gibson, P.B.C., beat S. Brown, S.C.C., by 56; 150 up.

W. Buttery, S.C.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C., by 48; 200 up.

B. Fielding, S.C.C., beat J.H. Anderson, P.B.C., by 2; 150 up.

C.J. Mickle, S.C.C., beat J.F. Burge, P.B.C., by 6; 150 up.

About twenty Stanley members attended.

February 24^th:- Smoking concert at headquarters, attended by between sixty and seventy members and friends. Part of the proceedings consisted of a very interesting lantern show, given by Messrs. Rae and Scarfe, of the Stanley Cycling Club, assisted by Tom Wildspark with his lantern, the photographs shown being principally of views in the Austrian Tyrol, and were much admired. The winners in the second Billiard Handicap were presented with their prizes, and everyone voted the evening a great success.

February 26^th.- Billiard Match v. Stanley Cycling Club, at their headquarters, Seven Sisters Road. Only ten Pickwicks including the team turned up, a poor compliment to our hosts. Result:-

R. Osborne, S.C.C., beat Jesse Hill, P.B.C., by 119; 250 up.

W.J. Hart, S.C.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C., by 71; 200 up.

W. Buttery S.C.C., beat F.W. Briggs, P.B.C., by 68; 150 up.

W. Hardy, P.B.C., beat B. Fielding, S.C.C., by 71; 150 up.

T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., beat S. Brown, S.C.C., by 53; 150 up.

March 4^th.- Billiard Match at Eldon Street, v Surrey Bicycle Club. This was a fiasco for our Club, as we could not win one of the games played. Result:-

A. Reed, S.B.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C., by 120; 250 up.

G. Capers, S.B.C., beat W. Hardy, P.B.C., by 48; 150 up.

A.J. Browne, S.B.C., beat J.F. Burge, P.B.C., by 33; 150 up.

C.T. Cowley, S.B.C., beat T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., by 70; 150 up.

Jesse Hill was not present, so after the match Messrs. Lockwood and Reed played an exhibition game for the entertainment of the company. Only ten members of the Surrey Bicycle Club were present.

March 14^th.- Opening of the season. Meeting at headquarters, attended by seventy members and friends. An excellent musical programme was contributed to by Messrs. E.P. Thompson, S.C. Rhodes, L.V. Smith, F.W. Ulrich, and E. Hollands.

It was announced in the Circular of April 8^th that our old friend, Mr. Walter G. Churcher, had presented the Club with a fine collection of photos and prints illustrating historical places mentioned in the Pickwick Papers. The hearty thanks of the Club were subsequently accorded Mr. Churcher for his interesting gift.

April 2^nd to 6^th, Easter Tour.- The description given in the Circular of April 28^th is so good. I cannot do better than reproduce it here:- “Some twenty members and friends assembled at Paddington station for the 5.45 p.m. train on Thursday, the 2^nd inst. After a comfortable journey in the special saloon provided by the Club, the company arrived at Trowbridge, and were met by the President and Mr. Phunky (Watson Dyer), who had ridden down by road. Mr. Welps (A.H. Early), who, after an absence from one or two Easter tours, having fully regained his laurels as the Club comedian, kept the company amused till bed time. A start was made on the following (Friday) morning, through some delightful country to Wells, where lunch was taken, and the journey resumed to Yeovil, which town long remain in the memory of all present, the Club having the honour of entertaining the Mayor and ex-Mayor, who extended a most cordial invitation to the Pickwick Bicycle Club to again visit Yeovil and be their guests. The journey was continued on Saturday to Weymouth, where, after luncheon, most of the party took the opportunity of visiting the Channel squadron; the day’s ride being finished at Wareham. On Sunday the tour was resumed via Ringwood to Salisbury, a few miles from which city Messrs. Tom Wildspark and Snicks were found, having driven out some miles to meet the Club, the former armed with Kodak, with which several snapshots were taken. Arriving at the Red Lion Hotel, the party, now numbering over thirty, did full justice to a most excellent dinner, the captain being the host of the evening, he having invited all to be his guests on this occasion. The usual speeches followed, Messrs. Dodson and Welps being in particularly good form. Club photo on the following (Monday) morning, was taken by Tom Wildspark, and the homeward journey (via Whitchurch and Basingstoke) was somewhat sadly resumed. The Easter tour of 1896 was alike remarkable for the excellent weather, roads, hotel accommodation, and freedom from mishaps, the only accidents occurring within a few miles of the finish.”

May 2^nd.- The inter-club run with the London Scottish, Rovers, and Dartmouth Park Clubs was well attended by Pickwickians, but owing to the absence of a pianist, it was impossible to proceed with the usual smoking concert.

June 13^th.- Inter-club run with the Stanley Cycling Club to Wokingham; a most successful affair, attended by ten Pickwicks and fifteen Stanleys. The route was from Kew Bridge, Brentford, Hounslow, and Colnbrook, to Slough (tea at Royal Hotel), continuing via Eton, Windsor, Windsor Park and Forest by Ascot racecourse and Sunninghill to Wokingham; supper and sleep at Rose Hotel. Here the party visited the headquarters of the Wokingham Cycling Club, and entertained them with music. (The record does not say what the Wokingham Cycling Club entertained the Pickwick Bicycle Club with.) On the following day the return journey was by Reading, Henley, Great Marlow, dinner at the Fisherman’s Retreat, and then through Maidenhead and Slough back to Kew.

October 12^th.- Charley Challenge Cup. FIFTY-MILE ROAD HANDICAP (seventh year). Officials: Starter and Judge, Mr. E. Hollands; Checkers en route, Messrs. H.A. Jacobs, H. Mann, and E. Hill. Result:-

1	A.W. Ulrich	29½ m. start.	Net time, 2 h. 42 m. 0 s.
2	S.C. Rhodes	19 m. start.	Net time, 2 h. 46 m. 10 s.
3	F. Nockold	18 m. start.	Net time, 3 h. 0 m. 0 s.

F.W. Briggs also started, but his tyre punctured after a few miles, so he was obliged to retire from the race.

During this month (October) the third Billiard Handicap was completed, the result of the final heats being as follows:-

Jesse Hill (1^st prize) beat K.M. Yeomans (2^nd prize) by 7.

F.B. Gibson took 3^rd prize, G. Milne forfeiting by non-attendance.

November 7^th, Closing Meeting.- A highly successful gathering, over 100 members and friends attending, and enjoying a capital musical programme. There was no supper on this occasion, as it had been found that it took up so much time, there was not enough left to carry through the concert properly.

November 21^st.- An impromptu concert at headquarters. A very jolly evening, the Club talent coming out in strong form.

December 5^th._ The twenty-sixth Annual Dinner was held on this date, the President, Mr. T.J. Boulter, in the chair. Over 100 members and friends were present. Mr. G.R. Sims (Mr. Anthony Humm), was again present; also Sir W.T. Charley, after an absence of some years. Mr. Blotton’s musical arrangements were of the usual excellence, as were also Brother Tadger’s programme covers. There was the now usual collection for The Referee Children’s Dinner Fund, which realized the sum of 15 guineas.

December 19^th.- The annual Garden Party was very well attended. The music and singing were chiefly supplied by members and Friends, and a thoroughly enjoyable evening was spent. The prizes won in both cycling and billiard handicaps were presented to their respective winners.

1897

January 7^th.- Billiard Match v Stanley Cycling Club, at Eldon Street. Result:-

R. Osborne, S.C.C., beat Jesse Hill, P.B.C., by 7; 200 up.

B. Fielding S.C.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C., by 34; 200 up.

C.J. Mickle, S.C.C., beat W. Hardy, P.B.C., by 55; 150 up.

J.F. Burge, P.B.C., beat W.H. Wlkley, S.C.C., by 57; 150 up.

T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., beat S. Brown, S.C.C., by 25; 150 up.

January 11^th, Twenty-seventh Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. H. Mann; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Maverly, Fussell, Bryant, Beningfield, Robey, Jacobs, Riehmer, Sloughgrove and Boulter; Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Sub-Captain, F.W. Briggs; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake. Committee: Messrs. Yeoman, Fenton, A.W. Ulrich, Palmer, Dover, Boulter, Pullin and W.E. Blake. Messrs. W.E. Blake and A.W. Ulrich were appointed delegates to N.C.U..

January 15^th.- Pickwick B.C. v Surrey B.C. at Eldon Street. Result:-

J. Hill P.B.C., beat A. Read, S.B.C., by 103; 200 up.

R. Pridmore P.B.C., beat G. Capern, S.B.C., by 111; 200 up.

F.B. Gibson, P.B.C., beat Mr. Soanes, S.B.C., by 28; 150 up.

Mr. Butler, S.B.C., beat J.F. Burge, P.B.C., by 13; 150 up.

January 30^th.- Club walk from Chingford to Theydon Bois was a very successful affair. Seven or eight members returned to headquarters, where a smoking concert was held in the evening, attended by about thirty members and friends. The President was in the chair, and a jolly evening was spent.

February 25^th.- Billiard Match v Stanley Cycling Club, at Seven Sisters Road (Stanley headquarters). Result:-

W. Buttery, S.C.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C., by 51; 200 up.

W. Hart, S.C.C., beat T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., by 92; 200 up.

B. Fielding, S.C.C., beat J.F. Burge, by 107; 200 up.

E. Simson, S.C.C., beat F.W. Briggs, P.B.C., by 39; 200 up.

March 10^th.- Pickwick B.C. v Surrey B.C., at Chancery Lane (Surrey B.C. headquarters). Result:-

A. Read, S.B.C., beat R. Pridmore, P.B.C., by 117; 200 up.

A.R. Lockwood, S.B.C., beat T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., by 25; 200 up.

G. Capern, S.B.C., beat F.W. Bridges, P.B.C., by 90; 200 up.

R. Pridmore, P.B.C., beat S. Brown, S.B.C., by 25; 150 up.

T.H. Coombs, P.B.C., beat A. Read, S.B.C., by 20; 150 up.

The result of the fourth Billiard Handicap Finals was as follows:-

F.E. Hill, rec. 120 (1^st prize), beat A. Bridge, rec. 110 (2^nd prize) by 11; 250 up.

L.V. Smith, rec. 115 (3^rd prize), beat T.H. Coombs by 47; 250 up.

March 20^th.- Opening of season. Meeting at headquarters. About seventy members and visitors attended. An excellent musical programme was provided by Mr. Blotton. The Chairman (the Captain) proposed the health of “The Visitors,” which was responded to by Mr. J. Dring, of the Stanley C.C..

In the Circular of April 28^th the following runs are announced for the month:- 1^st, Hatfield; 8^th, Nazing Common; 15^th, Essendon – extension to Luton; 22^nd Upminster; 29^th, Watford.

April 15^th to 19^th, Easter Tour.- On Thursday the 15^th, the 5.45 p.m. train was taken from Paddington to Bristol, where the night was passed at the George and Railway Hotel. Jinkins (T.J. Boulter), Mr. Prosee (H. Scrivener), Mr. Phunky (Watson Dyer), and Count Smorltork had gone down by road and met the party on its arrival.

Friday’s ride was to Highbridge (24½ miles) for lunch, then to Taunton (44 miles) for dinner and night at Clark’s Hotel. Saturday: Charmouth (24½ miles), lunch at Coach and Horses; Weymouth (54 miles) dinner and night at the Golden Lion. Sunday: Blandford (24 miles), lunch at the Crown, Salisbury (46½ miles), dine and sleep at the Red Lion.. Easter Monday: Andover (17½ miles) for lunch at the George; Newbury (34½ miles), dine at the Queen’s. Train 8.40 p.m. for Paddington. Between twenty and twenty-five members went for the tour, but bad weather seemed to prevail generally; however, as usual, “the boys” kept themselves cheerful, and voted the tour a great success.

May 3^rd, General Meeting.- After the business, the prizes won in the billiard handicaps were presented to the winners, after which an exhibition match of 300 up was played by Messrs. Jesse Hill and J. Mannock, victory resting with the latter player (a professional).

May 29^th.- On this date there was an extension run from Watford to Maidenhead, when the party put up at the Bear. Next morning a launch trip was made to Marlow in fine weather; which must, however, have changed later, as the Circular account by Joe, the Fat Boy, states that the return riding party encountered bad weather, and reached home very wet.

June 19^th.- Charley Challenge Cup. FIFTY-MILE ROAD HANDICAP (eighth year). Officials: Starter and Judge, Mr. E. Hollands. Checkers at various points on the road, Messrs. Boulter, Fussell and E. Hill. Result:-

1. J. Atto 30 m. start, net time, 2 h. 50 m. 42 s.

2. W. Johnson scratch net time, 3 h. 15 m. 25 s.

Also started, S.C. Rhodes, F. Nockold and A.W. Ulrich. A very high wind prevailed, which resulted in only two riders completing the distance.

July 3^rd.- An inter-club run with the Stanley Cycling Club to Wokingham and Great Marlow; both clubs were well represented, and had a most enjoyable time.

July 24^th.- Club run to Brighton, attended by twelve members. Stay made at the King and Queen, the party leaving about 3.30 next day to ride home.

August 21^st.- Run to Alton under the direction of Joe, the Fat Boy and Mr. Dubbley; fourteen members attended. The night was spent at Alton, the return journey next day being via Oldham and Blackwater, to Staines and Kew.

The runs for September were: 11^th, Wheathampstead; 18^th, Shenley; 25^th, Barnet.

September 11^th.- Extension run to Bedford. A small party accompanied the Captain on this, and had a pleasant time.

September 25^th.- Inter-club run to Barnet with the London Scottish, Rovers, and Dartmouth Park clubs. Nearly forty sat down to tea, and several members of the Stanley arrived later. Mr. H. Mann (President Pickwick B.C.) occupied the chair, and an excellent musical programme was gone through during the evening.

October 30^th.- Closing meeting at headquarters. Between seventy and eighty members and visitors attended, and enjoyed a first-rate concert – Mr. G. De Pledge and Mr. Sam Wright being present; and among our own members Messrs. E.P. Thompson, Hollands, Rhodes and F.W. Ulrich contributed to the entertainment.

December 4^th.- Twenty-eighth Annual Dinner, held at the London Tavern, 122 members and friends sat down, Mr. H. Mann (President) occupying the chair. Among the guests were Sir W.T. Charley, Mr. T.R. Marriott (Surrey B.C.), Mr. P. Ludovici (Stanley C.C.) and others. As usual, an excellent musical programme was provided by Mr. Blotton. The sum of twenty guineas was collected for The Referee Children’s Dinner Fund.

December 18^th.- Annual Garden Party. Owing to bad weather, the attendance was very small. Mr. F.H. Bell was in the chair, and a good programme of music was enjoyed. The prizes won in the Charley Challenge Cup race were also presented to the winner, Mr. J. Atto. (This last exactly as per Circular.)

1898

As there is from this period a considerable deal of sameness in the regular doings of the Club, which were then much the same as they are at the time of writing, and generally known to our present members, I think the records may be reduced to that abbreviated form to which I have before referred, as being found in connection with the annual general meeting Circular.

January 8th.- Epping Forest Musical Society’s Concert at the Forest Hotel, Mr. Harry Bird (Serjeant Buzfuz), Pickwick B.C. in the chair. Between thirty and forty “Pickwicks” attended, and a fine concert was much appreciated.

January 17th, Twenty-eighth Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. Edward Hollands; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Maverly, Fussell, Bryant, Beningfield, Robey, Jacobs, Riehmer, Sloughgrove, Boulter and Mann; Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Sub-Captain, F.W. Briggs; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake; Committee, Messrs. Yeoman, Fenton, Palmer, Boulter, Pullin, A. Bridge and Elliott. Messrs. W.E. Blake and Robert Herring were elected delegates to N.C.U..

February 16th.- Billiard Match, Pickwick B.C. v Stanley C.C., at Eldon Street. Four games played, Pickwick B.C. won 2, Stanley C.C. 2.

March 1st.- Circular. Fifth Billiard Handicap. Prize winners: A. Fenton, 1; W.B. Rowe 2; F.H. Martin, 3.

March 12th.- Opening of the Riding Season at headquarters. S.C. Rhodes in the chair. Seventy members and friends attended. The Billiard and Pyramid Handicap prizes were presented during the evening.

April 7th to 11th, Easter Tour.- Starting from Swindon to Gloucester, Tewkesbury, Stratford-on-Avon and Leamington, and returning via Oxford, Abingdon, and Maidenhead to Kew.

May 13th.- Return Billiard Match, Stanley C.C. v Pickwick B.C., at Stanley C.C. headquarters, Tollington Park. The Stanley won four games out of five. A very pleasant evening was spent.

June.- At this time a dark cloud hung over the Club. Our greatly-esteemed Captain, Stephen Rhodes, was taken ill; I do not think it was generally known how very ill he was, but I know as a fact that his life was despaired of by at least one medical man, and a heavy load was lifted off the minds and hearts of us who did know, when we felt assured of his convalescence after the most critical time he had gone through. On June 6th his resignation of the post of Captain, on account of his health, was accepted with greatest regret, and the ex-Captain, Mr. Boulter, was elected to fill the post for the remainder of the year.

June 18th.- Inter-club run with Stanley C.C. to Uxbridge and Maidenhead. Fifteen members of both clubs attended and spent an enjoyable time.

June 25th.- Charley Challenge Cup (ninth year).

E. Hill	15 m. start, 1;	riding time, 3 h. 7 m. 30 s.
W.T. Johnson	scratch, 2;	riding time, 2 h. 56 m.
J. Atto	20 m. start, 3;	riding time, 3 h. 33 m.

August 13th.- Joe, the Fat Boy’s run to Alton. A very successful event.

September 10th.- Run to Bedford. Only four members attended.

September 24th.- Inter-club run, Pickwick, London Scottish, and Dartmouth Park Clubs to the old Salisbury, at Barnet. Forty members attended, and an excellent tea and concert were enjoyed.

October 22nd.- Closing of Riding Season at headquarters, was well attended, and the musical programme, as usual, all it should be. The Charley Challenge Cup and medals were presented to the winners.

November 26th.- Smoking concert at headquarters, the President in the chair. This meeting was largely attended and most successful.

December 10th.- The twenty-ninth Annual Dinner, held at Frascati’s; 144 sat down, a record attendance. The musical arrangements perfect, and the change of place generally approved. During the evening an Illuminated Testimonial, together with a gold watch, was presented to Mr. S.C. Rhodes, from the members of the Club, in recognition of the valuable services rendered by him as Sub-Captain and Captain.

The above is from the Circular, but there was more than that in it; the gift was really more of a token of joy and thankfulness for our dear friend’s restoration to health.

December 16th.- Billiard Match at Stanley C.C. headquarters, Tollington Park. The Stanley C.C. won every game.

December 17th.- The usual “Ante Christmas” Soiree Musicale took place, and though not largely attended, was very much enjoyed.

1899

January 16^th, Twenty-ninth Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year: President, Mr. K.M. Yeoman; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Maverly, Fussell, Bryant, Beningfield, Robey, Jacobs, Riehmer, Sloughgrove, Boulter, Mann, Hollands and Rhodes; Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, G. Palmer; Hon. Treasurer, E. Hollands; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secreatry, W.E. Blake; Committee, Messrs. A. Fenton, R. Herring, F.J. Buckland, S. Fussell, F.E. Hill, H.V. Smith and G.J. Kemball.

January 23^rd.- Billiard Match, Pickwick B.C. v Stanley C.C., at Eldon Street. A capital attendance of members of both clubs. The Stanley won three games out of the four played.

February.- Completion of the sixth Billiard Handicap. First prize, K.M. Yeoman; Second, J.F. Burge; Third, H.J. Moore.

March 1^st:- Cinderella Dance at Cripplegate Institute. There was a full attendance of members and their lady friends, and the gathering was unanimously voted an unqualified success – so much so, that it was decided to repeat the experiment. Mr. E. Hollands performed the duties of M.C. very efficiently.

March 18^th.- Opening meeting of the season. About seventy members and friends attended. The President (Mr. K.M. Yeoman) occupied the chair, and Mr. Blotton supplied a fine musical programme. A lantern show was given by Tom Wildspark, the “Orator” being Mr. Pickwick.

March 30^th to April 4^th.- Easter Tour in Normandy, under the guidance of the Captain. Twenty-one members and friends attended, and had a most enjoyable time.

May 13^th.- Extension run to Weybridge, under the direction of the Sub-Captain (Mr. Snicks).

July 1^st.- A small attendance of Pickwicks, but the party had a pleasant outing.

August 12^th.- Charley Challenge Cup, FIFTY-MILE ROAD HANDICAP (tenth year). This was won by the Hon. Secretary, Mr. E. Hill, with 7 minutes start, in a riding time of 3 hours 14 minutes. This being the third time that Mr. Smangle had won the cup it became his own property.

August 26^th.- Run to Brighton.

September 23^rd.- Twentieth annual inter-club run with the London Scottish and Dartmouth Park Clubs to the Old Salisbury, at Barnet. There was a poor attendance of Pickwicks, but the other two clubs made up for it, and the meeting was very successful.

September.- Completion of the seventh Billiard Handicap. First prize, F.E. Hill; second, L.V. Smith; third, S.H. Caslon-Smith.

October 14^th.- Closing meeting of the season; a splendid success. The Captain was in the chair, and presented the prizes won in the last Billiard Handicap, and also the Charley Challenge Cup. A collection was made in aid of the Princess of Wales’ Fund for the wives and families of the soldiers engaged in the war, the sum of five guineas being subscribed.

October 28^th.- First Progressive Whist evening. First prize won by Mr. H.A. Jacobs.

December 4^th, General Meeting.- At this meeting it was decided, at all events for the present, to give up all Club racing, both on road and path.

December 9^th.- Thirtieth Annual Dinner, at Frascati’s Restaurant. This function was, as usual, a huge success; 120 members and friends sat down, and a most enjoyable evening ensued. Mr. Blotton’s musical arrangements were perfect, and Brother Tadger’s programme, though not of the usual Pickwickian character, was most artistic and much admired. A collection for The Referee Children’s Dinner Fund resulted in the substantial sum of £26 2s. 6d..

December 16^th.- The annual Garden Party at headquarters. The meeting was not very large, but was, as usual, Pickwickian and happy.

1900

January 8^th.- Billiard Match, Pickwick B.C. v Stanley C.C., at Eldon Street. Four games played, each side winning two. A good attendance of both clubs.

January 15^th.- Thirtieth annual general meeting and election of officers. Retirement of Mr. Blotton from the office of Treasurer, which he held from January 1890. The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. S.C. Rhodes; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Maverly, Fussell, Bryant, Beningfield, Robey, Jacobs, Riehmer, Sloughgrove, Boulter, Mann, Hollands and Yeoman: Captain, T.J. Boulter; Sub-Captain, G. Palmer; Hon. Treasurer, F.E. Hill; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake; Committee, Messrs. Yeoman, Fenton, Buckland, H.V. Smith, Kemball, Hollands and Parker. Messrs. W.E. Blake and G. Palmer were elected delegates to the N.C.U..

January 18^th.- Cinderella Dance at the Cripplegate Institute; a poor attendance.

February 24^th.- Smoking concert, organized by Mr. Blotton, at headquarters; a great success.

February 26^th.- Adjourned annual meeting.

March 15^th.- Return Billiard Match at Stanley Cycling Club’s headquarters. Our opponents won all four games. A very pleasant evening was spent.

March 31^st.- Opening meeting of thirty-first season at headquarters, when a very large number of members and friends attended. A presentation of a handsome escritoire was made to Mr. E. Hollands in recognition of his valuable services as Treasurer of the Club for ten years.

April 12^th to 16^th, Easter Tour.- Twenty-six members and visitors attended. Starting from Bristol, the route taken was by Berkeley Heath, Gloucester, Tewkesbury, Worcester, Tenbury, and Ludlow, Hereford, Ross, Valley of the Wye, visiting Tintern Abbey, thence to Chepstow and back to Bristol. A most successful tour, thoroughly enjoyed by all.

June 30^th.- Inter-club run with Stanley Cycling Club to Alton, continued on the following day to Haslemere. The weather was not good, and there was not a large attendance, but the run was much enjoyed by those who went.

August 25^th.- Annual run to Brighton. Bad weather, but a very good attendance.

September 15^th.- Second run to Brighton. An improvement on the former, but the Circular does not state the number that attended.

September 29^th.- Twenty-first Anniversary of Inter-club run with London Scottish and Dartmouth Park Clubs to the Old Salisbury, at Barnet. Mr. Pickwick presided, and there were present several of the Colonial Troops from the war on a visit to this country.

October 13^th.- Closing meeting of season. A very excellent gathering, and Mr. Blotton’s musical programme splendid as usual. The prizes for the eighth Billiard Handicap should have been presented as follows: Mr. Jesse Hill, first; Mr. H.V. Smith, second; Mr. K.M. Yeoman, third; but only Mr. Yeoman of the three was present, and he had a very hearty reception on taking his prize.

November 10^th.- A Progressive Whist evening at headquarters; sixteen attended, who had a pleasant evening.

November 19^th.- Billiard Match with Stanley Cycling Club at headquarters. A very good attendance. The Stanley C.C. won four out of five games. There was some very fine play.

December 1^st.- Thirty-first Annual Dinner at Frascatti’s. About 140 members and friends sat down, and everyone voted the evening an unqualified success. Mr. Blotton’s musical arrangements were of their usual excellence, and the artistic programme as usual the generous gift of Brother Tadger.

December 15^th.- Club walk, under the leadership of Mr. Staple (Mr. Richard Masters) and Count Smorltork. Eight members started from East Croydon, various others joining en route, and nineteen sat down to tea at Bromley, six more joining during the course of the evening. A most harmonious meeting.

December 22^nd.- Annual Soiree Musicale at headquarters. Last gathering of the Nineteenth Century, well attended, splendid programme.

1901

January 14^th, Thirty-first Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. Shirley Fussell; Past Presidents, Messrs. Maverly, Beningfield, Sloughgrove, Boulter, Mann, Hollands, Yeoman and Rhodes; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Bryant, Robey, Jacobs and Riehmer; Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Sub-Captain, F.E. Hill; Hon. Treasurer, K.M. Yeoman; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake; Committee, Messrs. Hollands, Boulter, Kemball, Parker, S. Fortescue, and Mann. Messrs. W.E. Blake and G. Palmer were appointed delegates to N.C.U..

February 7^th.- Billiard Match. Return at Stanley headquarters; a good attendance. We only managed to win one game of five.

March 2^nd.- Club walk, under the guidance of the Rev. Mr. Stiggins. Nine members went, and had an enjoyable outing.

March 16^th.- Opening meeting of season. Very well attended; a large number of visitors being present who much enjoyed the musical programme.

March 28^th.- Billiard Match at headquarters between Messrs. Jesse Hill and Percy Buckler. Mr. Struggles allowed his opponent 100 points in 600 and won by 60. A very interesting game, and a good attendance.

April 4^th to 8^th.- Easter Tour in the West of England, Valley of the Wye. First day, from Cirencester to Worcester; second, to Monmouth; third, to Newnham; fourth, back to Cirencester, returning in evening by train to London. Twenty-five members and friends attended the tour, which was very successful, and much enjoyed by all.

April 19^th.- First House Supper at headquarters. Twenty-six sat down to an excellent cold collation, followed by a musical evening, and had a capital time.

May 24^th to 28^th.- Whitsun Tour in Ireland, under the guidance of Serjeant Buzfuz (Mr. J.C. Percy, of Dublin). Eight Pickwickians and five friends attended, under the captaincy of Mr. Blotton. The whole affair was a brilliant success, and a very full account was given in the Irish Wheelman of the period.

June 8^th.-Club run to Odiham, returning next day. Well attended; delightful weather.

June 14^th.- Second House Supper at headquarters. Twenty members attended, and had a very jolly evening.

June 29^th.- Club run to Brighton. Eleven attended. Owing to wet weather on the Sunday, members had to return to Town by train.

August 10^th.- Extension run to Burnham-on-Crouch.

August 24^th.- Extension run to Bedford.

September 21^st.- Inter-club run to Barnet with London Scottish and Dartmouth Park Clubs. Weather bad and a poor attendance.

September 28^th.- Inter-club run to Slough with Stanley Cycling Club. On the Saturday, thirty sat down to supper, and next day the party numbered seventy-four to dinner at the Royal Hotel. A very enjoyable week end to all.

October 19^th.- Closing meeting at headquarters. A very large attendance; music good as usual. Tom Wildspark gave an interesting Lantern Show, the principal exponents being Jinkins (J.T. Boulter), and Mr. Lowten (W.G. Churcher).

November 9^th.- Club walk under the leadership of Mr. Pickwick from Taplow to Littleworth Common. The company numbered fifteen and had a capital time, some returning to Town next day.

November 30^th.- The thirty-second Annual Dinner, held at Frascati’s Restaurant; Count Smorltork, President, in the chair. Over 150 sat down to a capital dinner, followed by the usual excellent programme of music. The usual collection for The Referee Children’s Dinner Fund amounted to over £39.

December 21^st.- The annual Soiree Musicale. About fifty were present, and a very jolly evening, contributed to by all Club talent, was spent.

1902

January 4^th.- A walk through Epping Forest under the leadership of the Rev. Mr. Stiggins. Weather very bad. Tea at Forest Hotel, Chingford, where a very pleasant musical evening was spent.

January 13^th.- Thirty-second Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. Herbert C. Hill; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Bryant, Robey, Jacobs and Riehmer; Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Sub-Captain, Geo. Palmer; Hon. Treasurer, K.M. Yeoman; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secretary, W.E. Blake; Committee, Messrs. Kemball, Parker, Hollands, Boulter, S. Fortescue, L.V. Smith and H. Mann. Messrs. W.E. Blake and G. Palmer were re-elected delegates to N.C.U..

January 20^th.- Billiard Match v Stanley Cycling Club at Eldon Street. Pickwick B.C. 3 games; Stanley C.C. 2 games.

During this month some very interesting relics were presented to the Club by our old friend W.G. Churcher (Mr. Lowten), and may be seen adorning the walls of the club-room.

February 17^th.- At the adjourned annual general meeting on this date, which was largely attended, it was resolved (with only two dissentients) to abolish Associate Membership.

February 21^st.- Return Billiard Match at Stanley Cycling Club headquarters. A very pleasant evening, though our opponents had all their own way at Billiards.

March 9^th.- Opening meeting at headquarters. A good muster, and successful evening; thanks, as usual, mainly to Mr. Blotton.

March 21st.- House Supper at headquarters. A very disappointing affair; only fifteen turned up.

March 27^th to 31^st, Easter Tour.- Twenty-one members started on this tour. Train from Paddington to Bath. The route on the following days lay through Glastonbury, Taunton, Yeovil, Dorchester, Wimbourne, and Lyndhurst to Southampton, and train back to London. The weather turned out so bad that all but eight of the party returned by train from Dorchester on the Sunday.

April 26^th.- Extension run to Cambridge. Seven members carried out the run against a head wind. The return ride was via Hitchin.

May 12^th.- Exhibition Billiard Matches at headquarters, between Messrs. Jesse Hill and Evison, and Messrs. Evison and R. Osborne (Stanley C.C.). In each match, of 300 up, Mr. Evison was the winner. This was a thoroughly enjoyable evening to all lovers of the game, some most excellent play being witnessed. Several Stanley men accepted the Club’s invitation to see their champion play.

May 16^th to 19^th.- Whitsun Tour in Ireland. Conducted by Serjeant Buzfuz (Mr. J.C. Percy, of Dublin). There is a very full description in the Irish Wheelman of the period of this tour. The weather was bad, and the occasion will doubtless be impressed upon memories of all those joining the tour, by the shocking catastrophe which happened to a boat full of tourists, and the boatman accompanying them, all being drowned, on the Killarney Lakes.

June 21^st.- Extension run to Shenley, Bucks. (by special desire of Count Smorltork). A good party supported the Captain and the Count, and sat down to an excellent dinner on arrival. The return next day was via Aylesbury and Tring.

July.- There were two extension runs this month, via., to Brighton on the 12^th, and an inter-club run with the Stanley Cycling Club to Alton; both were poorly attended, and the weather was not good.

August 9^th.- There was a “Coronation” extension run to Wokingham on this date, but it was attended by only four members. Also during this month an additional run under the direction of Whiffen (R.F. Burge), to Dunstable, where an enjoyable time was spent.

The tenth Billiard Handicap was finished during the month of August, the winners being: S.H. Elliott, first; S.C. Rhodes, second; Jesse Hill, third.

September 13^th.- A special run to Dunstable, arranged by Mr. Blotton, attended by eight members. Our hon. member, Mr. Willie Wright, went down specially to assist in the musical entertainment.

October 4^th.- Inter-club run with London Scottish and Dartmouth Park Clubs to the Old Salisbury at Barnet. The weather was bad, and but few members went; an enjoyable evening was, however, spent.

October 18^th.- Closing meeting at headquarters. Seventy to eighty members and friends attended. Messrs. L.V. Smith, Thompson, Churcher, &c., contributed to the programme.

November 17^th.- Exhibition Billiards, at headquarters, by Messrs. Jesse Hill, Evison, and Barron. A very enjoyable evening, some very fine billiards being witnessed.

November 22^nd.- House Supper at headquarters, arranged by Count Smorltork. A very great success, no less than fifty-two members and friends sitting down to a well-served meal. A smoking concert followed (the Captain in the chair), whereat some excellent talent appeared, including our old friends Sam Wright and Johnny Price.

December 6^th.- Thirty-third Annual Dinner, the President , Mr. H.C. Hill, in the chair. About 135 attended, and everything was as successful as usual.

December 20^th.- The Annual Soiree Musicale was poorly attended, but those who were there enjoyed the evening.

1903

January 19^th, Thirty-third Annual General Meeting.- The following officers were elected for the year:- President, Mr. W.E. Blake; Vice-Presidents, Messrs. Bryant, Robey, Jacobs and Riehmer; Captain, S.C. Rhodes; Sub-Captain, G. Palmer; Hon. Treasurer, K.M. Yeoman; Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill; Assistant Hon. Secretary, in abeyance; Committee, Messrs. Boulter, Parker, Mann, S. Fortescue, L.V. Smith, R.F. Burge and W.A. Elston. Messrs. W.E. Blake and G. Palmer were re-elected as delegates to N.C.U..

January 26^th.- Billiard Match v Stanley Cycling Club, at headquarters. A good attendance of both clubs. Stanley C.C. won three games, Pickwick B.C. two.

January.- The Club registered under the New Licensing Act.

February 20^th.- Return Billiard Match v Stanley Cycling Club, at Tollington Park. Only a few of our members went. Result: Stanley C.C. three games, Pickwick B.C. two. Our winners were Messrs. Jesse Hill and Colonel Draffen.

February 21^st.- Club walk to Littleworth. Captain in charge; very successful.

March 14^th.- Opening meeting at headquarters. This was well attended, and a very excellent musical evening was enjoyed.

April 10^th to 13^th, Easter Tour.- This year the experiment was tried of making headquarters at one place, and going thence for daily excursions. Bakewell, Derbyshire, was the spot selected, and the programme included visits to Chatsworth House, Haddon Hall, and other places of interest. Fifteen members attended the outing, and although some rough and snowy weather was experienced, the following Circular describes it as an “unqualified success.”

April 12^th.- Nathaniel Pipkin rode 100 miles in ten hours, against the wind, on his 70^th birthday.

June.- The winners of the First Ordinary Handicap of the year were, A.N. Garton, first; Hayter Scrivener, second; Colonel Draffen, third. The American Handicap was won by Count Smorltork.

July 11^th.- Run to Brighton attended by Master Bardell, Mr. Blotton and Mr. Smangle.

July 25^th.- Sub-Captain’s run to Great Marlow; only four attended. A launch excursion formed part of the proceedings, but weather was bad.

September 12^th.- Run to Dunstable, Mr. Blotton in charge. Eight attended and had a very good time.

September 26^th.- Inter-club run with London Scottish and Dartmouth Park Clubs to the old Salisbury, Barnet – a successful affair.

October 10^th.- Final extension run to Ivinghoe, near Tring. Nine members supported the Captain, and enjoyed themselves much.

October 17^th.- Closing meeting at headquarters; sixty members and friends attended. The musical talent was almost entirely supplied by members of the Club, and all went off delightfully.

November 28^th.- Thirty-fourth Annual Dinner, at Frascati’s. Mr. W.E. Blake, President, in the chair; 122 members and friends sat down. An excellent dinner and a splendid musical programme, and everything went off most successfully.

December 19^th.- The Annual Soiree Musicale, at headquarters, not numerously attended, but very enjoyable.

1904

January 18^th.- Thirty-fourth Annual General Meeting and Election of Officers. President, Captain T.J. Boulter (Jinkins); Captain, Stephen C. Rhodes (Mr. Pickwick); Sub-Captain, George Palmer (Mr. Snicks); Hon. Treasurer, K.M. Yeoman (Lieut. Tappleton); Hon. Secretary, Edward Hill (Mr. Smangle); Assistant Hon. Secretary, Walter E. Blake (Hon. Mr. Crushton); Committee, W.A. Elston (Villam), L.V. Smith (Tuckle), R.F. Burge (Whiffin), J.G.McDonald (Mr. Noddy), P.J. Groom (Mr. Blink).

January 25^th.- Inter-Club Billiard Match with Stanley Cycling Club at Eldon Street. A very enjoyable evening was spent, though the home team only won one game.

February 6^th.- The first Club walk of the season. Eleven members travelled by train from Euston to Tring, and walked thence to Ivinghoe, where dinner was partaken of, and a very pleasant musical evening spent. On the following morning (Sunday) the party walked to Dunstable and lunched there, returning to Town by train. The weather on Saturday was not good, but was so on Sunday, and the outing was generally voted a success.

February 19^th.- Return Billiard Match with the Stanley Cycling Club at their headquarters. There was a good attendance of our members and the usual Stanley hospitality was enjoyed, but the honours of billiards were all our hosts.

March 12^th.- Opening of season at headquarters. There were about sixty members and friends present and a most excellent musical programme was provided by our friend Mr. Blotton.

March.- The twelfth Billiard Handicap completed this month. First prize, Mr. F.J. Groom; Second, Mr. H.C. Hill; Third, Mr. S. Fortescue.

April 1^st to 4^th, Easter Tour.- Only twelve members attended. Train was taken on Thursday evening from Waterloo to Salisbury, where the Red Lion Hotel was made the headquarters of the party for the time. The ride on Good Friday was to Stonehenge, lunch being taken at Amesbury. On Saturday to Ringwood, about sixteen miles through the Avon Valley; the latter part of the day turned wet. On Sunday a walking party visited the Roman Encampment, about three miles from Salisbury, returning to lunch at the Red Lion. On Easter Monday, some of the party rode part of the way back to Town, while others stayed the day, and returned by train in the evening. The holiday was much enjoyed by all.

April 16^th.- Extension run to Hatfield Broad Oak. Six members attended.

May 13^th.- Commencement of Continental Tour by Messrs. Boulter, Fussell, Hayter Scrivener and H.A. Coombs. The riding commenced at St. Malo, the route being round the coast of Brittany, up the river Loire, and then north to Dieppe, where the tour ended, over a thousand miles having been ridden, the weather generally being very favourable. The Count and Ben Allen returned on June 4^th, and Jinkins and Mr. Prosee on the 7^th.

May 28^th.- The Sub-Captain’s Run and Up-River Trip. Twelve members attended this very successful outing. On the 29^th a launch was chartered, and a good long day spent on the River in perfect weather.

July 8^th.- Sir William T. Charley, ex-President of the Club, died suddenly at East Grinstead.

July 9^th.- Nine members accepted the kind invitation of Mr. and Mrs. Watson Dyer to visit them at Hutton Mount, Shenfield, making the Club run to that place, and heartily appreciated the Pickwickian welcome accorded them.

October 8^th.- Inter-club meeting at the Old Salisbury, Barnet, with the London Scottish and Dartmouth Park Clubs. An excellent attendance, and a most entertaining evening was spent.

October 29^th.- Closing meeting of the season at headquarters. A very large attendance and an excellent programme, arranged by Mr. Blotton as usual.

November 23^rd to 26^th.- Pickwickian Exhibition at headquarters, organised by Mr. Walter G. Churcher. A most interesting and successful exhibition, visited by over two hundred members and friends.

November 26^th.- Thirty-fifth Annual Dinner at Frascati’s. One hundred and fifteen members and friends sat down, under the able Presidency of Captain T.J. Boulter. Mr. Blotton again provided a programme which met with universal approval, and Brother Tadger, as usual, contributed the beautiful programme covers.

December 17^th.- The Annual Soiree Musicale took place at headquarters, the attendance was not large, but a very enjoyable evening was spent.