Wednesday, April 5, 2006

100 years ago

Schemes were in the air for making our grand old city a motor centre. The establishment of a large, complete, up-to-date, and fully equipped Motor Garage had become an accomplished fact in Blake Street, York. The new venture was one of a series of first-class garages having workshops replete with modern machine tools and staffed with qualified motor mechanics, capable of turning out high-class repair work in an efficient manner at short notice. Motor supplies and accessories would be stored, and reliable information as to roads and other matters of special interest to motorists would be easily accessible. As the tenancies of adjacent properties fell out the front would be enlarged to form a grand show room for motor vehicles. Showcases in the entrance hall contained all the best makes of lamps, horns, goggles, and parts for all the leading makes of cars.

50 years ago

Buying a carpet called for a little planning in advance. The main aspect of the question could well be a choice between fitted carpet or what was known as a "square" although it was usually oblong. Fitted carpets were, of course, very much in vogue. However, for reasons of cost, you might well decide on a square. With a dark polished surround, and comfort in the main area of floor space, you could be sure of a thoroughly satisfactory effect. But it was important to avoid buying a carpet too small for the room. Twelve inches of surround ought to be regarded as the maximum for a large room, and eight inches for a smaller one.

25 years ago

A colourful pageant in the setting of the ruined Sheriff Hutton Castle was planned to commemorate the 500th anniversary of the installation of the castle's receiver by Richard, Duke of Gloucester, who became Richard III of England. Richard, one of Yorkshire's favourite monarchs, in 1481 installed Geoffrey Fraunke as receiver -- governor in modern language -- of the castle, built in 1140. Richard originally came to Yorkshire in 1472 to rule the turbulent North for his brother, King Edward IV. Middleham was his home, York his capital, and Sheriff Hutton Castle became his favourite residence. Two years after the installation ceremony, in 1483, Richard went south on the death of his brother and became King. Most people in Sheriff Hutton would become involved in the event, on July 11, and the Society of Friends of Richard III would provide the pageant. In addition, visitors -- expected to number some thousands -- would be entertained by military and brass bands and watch displays of rural crafts on the nearby village green. The pageant and fair were in aid of a new village hall, which would cost about £80,000.

Updated: 09:02 Wednesday, April 05, 2006