OWSTON FERRY SOCIETY

Was formed in 1985 initially as a local history group, but with the acquisition of Laming's Smithy in 1989 was expanded to become a heritage society.

It runs a regular series of winter-season talks by visiting speakers, usually illustrated, maintains and runs The Old Smithy and Heritage Centre in the High Street and opens it to visitors during the summer season, and undertakes small restoration and heritage projects around the village.

Of particular interest are the wedding and anniversary blessings performed in The Smithy.

The Society is run by a small committee of members. The membership fee is currently £2.50 per person per year, which entitles a member to unlimited free admission to The Smithy (usually £1) and a twice-yearly free Newsletter (usually 50p).

The Society is delighted to welcome new members, who should contact Don Clayphan on Owston Ferry 728361. Sponsors are available to ease your way in

Registered Charity No. 701672 Affiliated to The Civic Trust

SOME PAST PROJECTS

1986 Regatta Revival
1986 Restoration of churchyard kissing gate
1986 "Owston Ferry at War" exhibition
1987 Restoration of War Memorial photos
1987 "Living off the Land" exhibition
1988 "Owston Ferry at Play" exhibition
1988 Restoration of Annie Keet's headstone
1988 Involved in "Fire over England"
1989 Aquisition of The Smithy
1989 Registered as a Charity
1989 Registered with Civic Trust
1990 "Schooldays" exhibition
1992 Opening of The Smithy Museum andHeritage Centre
1992 Hosted Boothferry Heritage Association's annual exhibition
1992 First annual "Santa at the Smithy"
1995 Involved in VE week celebrations
1997 Restoration of lych gate cross
1999 Rescue of old school chimes
2000 Involved in Millennium Clock project
2000 Publication of Heritage Trail
2000 Introduction of "Welcome Pack"
2000 Restoration of St Martin's statue
2001 Involved in burial of Time Capsule
2001 Web Site introduced
2002 Commissioned Jubilee Video of village