Wednesday 11th December 2019
THE PRESIDENT'S DISPLAY EVENING - RON BURN.
Gough Island 1955 Scientific Expedition. This was to study the flora and fauna of the island, made up of 6 Cambridge scientists, 1 Oxford and 1 South African. Regrettably the leader Robert Chambers fell and broke his back whilst unloading supplies, and had to be sent to hospital in South Africa. Ron showed various pictures of the members of the expedition and it's camp, the preparation and despatch of over 20,000 covers dated 14.12.55, then other much scarcer items despatched throughout 1956 until the last day they were on the island on the 25th May 1957. Many of the scarcer items were shown, including items signed by survey members.
Visit by him to Tristan da Cunha and it's islands in 2008 with members of the Tristan Association. During this voyage on the St Helena, he was also able to visit Gough Island, Nightingale Island, Inaccessible Island, Middle Island, Stokeborough Island, and showed many photos, covers etc. The photos included panoramic views and raging seas as well as the birdlife and seal colonies etc. even a friendly penguin within touching distance.
Whilst on Tristan they were able to present Certificates to all the twenty-two children who had submitted designs about life and Christmas on the island, six of which resulted in Xmas cards, which were also shown, as a small stock was still available.
Visit by him to Tristan da Cunha and it's islands in 2008 with members of the Tristan Association. During this voyage on the St Helena, he was also able to visit Gough Island, Nightingale Island, Inaccessible Island, Middle Island, Stokeborough Island, and showed many photos, covers etc. The photos included panoramic views and raging seas as well as the birdlife and seal colonies etc. even a friendly penguin within touching distance.
Whilst on Tristan they were able to present Certificates to all the twenty-two children who had submitted designs about life and Christmas on the island, six of which resulted in Xmas cards, which were also shown, as a small stock was still available.
Wednesday 4th December 2019
ANNUAL INTER-CLUB DISPLAY EVENING.
ANNUAL INTER-CLUB DISPLAY EVENING.
Members from Bromley & Beckenham P.S., Lewisham P.S., Kingston P.S. and Sidcup P.S.,
put up one-frame, twelve sheet displays.
1. David Milsted (B.B.P.S.): Boer War Army Telegraphs.
2. Cliff Gregory (S.P.S.): South India District Posts.
3. Peter Newman (B.B.P.S.): Leipzig Fairs.
4. Roger Niven (K.P.S.): The Vikings.
5. Brian Sole (K.P.S.): Mrs Dibben, Stamp dealer in Kingston.
6. Mike Dobbs (L.P.S.): BFPOs 1977 Fleet Review, 1978 Brighton Festival.
7. Cliff Hurst (S.P.S.): Russian Colour Trials, Specimens of Russian definitives.
8. Geoff Hanney (S.P.S.): Indian FPOS in Malaysia & Dutch East Indies 1944-1948.
9. Tony Hickey (L.P.S.): German Horse Racing including Brown Ribbon races.
10. Henry Coward (K.P.S.): The GB £10 issue.
11. Graeme Ashdown (B.B.P.S.): New Zealand First Flight covers.
12. John Shaw, a late stand-in for Bexley P.S.: Chile Telegraphs authorised for Postage. (Two frames).
put up one-frame, twelve sheet displays.
1. David Milsted (B.B.P.S.): Boer War Army Telegraphs.
2. Cliff Gregory (S.P.S.): South India District Posts.
3. Peter Newman (B.B.P.S.): Leipzig Fairs.
4. Roger Niven (K.P.S.): The Vikings.
5. Brian Sole (K.P.S.): Mrs Dibben, Stamp dealer in Kingston.
6. Mike Dobbs (L.P.S.): BFPOs 1977 Fleet Review, 1978 Brighton Festival.
7. Cliff Hurst (S.P.S.): Russian Colour Trials, Specimens of Russian definitives.
8. Geoff Hanney (S.P.S.): Indian FPOS in Malaysia & Dutch East Indies 1944-1948.
9. Tony Hickey (L.P.S.): German Horse Racing including Brown Ribbon races.
10. Henry Coward (K.P.S.): The GB £10 issue.
11. Graeme Ashdown (B.B.P.S.): New Zealand First Flight covers.
12. John Shaw, a late stand-in for Bexley P.S.: Chile Telegraphs authorised for Postage. (Two frames).
Wednesday 27th November 2019
HUGH OSBORNE: FALKLANDS AND SOUTH GEORGIA.
HUGH OSBORNE: FALKLANDS AND SOUTH GEORGIA.
Hugh introduced South Georgia with a brief history of discovery and significant dates including the establishment of whaling stations, the establishment of Post Offices, and the effect of visiting expeditions on mail volumes and stamp supplies.
He explainined that his Gold Medal winning entry was divided into five chapters. Many rare and some unique items were highlighted including 1909-10 substitute handstamps to comply with UPU regulations, 1911-12 “PAID AT SOUTH GEORGIA” handstamps due to shortages of stamps, 1923 March 2½d and 3d bisects, 1928 “2½d” provisional surcharge on 2d, 1930 2d Whale and Penguin design bisected for use as 1d on a postcard.
Similar problems of shortages were encountered with registration etiquettes, and postal stationery. Hugh dealt in detail with the problems of routing due to adverse and perverse acts by the Argentine (and sometimes Chilean) authorities. Often frustrating and detailed research had to be carried out to establish the precise route and dates for individual covers.
He explainined that his Gold Medal winning entry was divided into five chapters. Many rare and some unique items were highlighted including 1909-10 substitute handstamps to comply with UPU regulations, 1911-12 “PAID AT SOUTH GEORGIA” handstamps due to shortages of stamps, 1923 March 2½d and 3d bisects, 1928 “2½d” provisional surcharge on 2d, 1930 2d Whale and Penguin design bisected for use as 1d on a postcard.
Similar problems of shortages were encountered with registration etiquettes, and postal stationery. Hugh dealt in detail with the problems of routing due to adverse and perverse acts by the Argentine (and sometimes Chilean) authorities. Often frustrating and detailed research had to be carried out to establish the precise route and dates for individual covers.
This was also true of the Falklands Islands themselves and Hugh had chosen a number of items to illustrate this including Airmail, Censors including Governor’s Mail, Operation Tabarin. Special Rates, unusual original incoming or outgoing destinations, even Zeppelin mail was on display.
West Falklands Island Letter boxes were explained: the role of ship’s captains in collecting and delivering mail was detailed as were the rules relating to Prisoner of War and Internment mail, Garrison mail, rare No Stamp/Concessionary Red Cross facilities etc Right: Hugh Osborne with Ron Burn (Hon. President).
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Wednesday 9th October 2019
DISPLAYS BY TWO MEMBERS OF THE PACIFIC STUDY CIRCLE.
Hugh Bennet: Kiribati
Formerly the Gilbert Islands, Kiribati obtained independence in 1979 and for many years used the services of the Crown Agents, (later CASCO) but decided to make other arrangements in 2015 for an issue for the Queens 90th Birthday in 2016. Hugh acted as instigator, go-between and project manager between the photographer Ian James, the designer Derek Miller, the Kiribati authorities, the Commonwealth and Foreign Office, the Palace and finally the Printer.
In retelling the events he was able to show unadopted designs, photographic changes, colour proofs without values, correspondence with the Palace regarding the use of photos and permissions needed. Time was of the essence to ensure necessary changes were done quickly, approvals received and printers scheduled, thus the issue was finally despatched using DHL Direct arriving just two days before the issue date.
Further issues followed using Hugh’s expertise and contacts, and these were shown with printers’ sheets, proofs, final issues, miniature sheets and First Day Covers etc. All in all a most unusual and informative display, with much original material, photographs and correspondence in addition to the actual stamps, including full sheets, and covers.
John Ray: Fiji
John started by giving a brief history of the islands and geographical information. He then went on to detail the Fiji Express service and stamps, and then an extensive display of the “CR” and “VR” monogram issues and the numerous overprints and surcharges made there-on for new values and change of currency. A generous number of perforation and plate varieties were also shown. The KEVII and KGV Key plate issues were well presented followed by the first pictorial set of KGVI, this latter including the KEVIII photograph essays which were adapted for the new monarch after the abdication, etc.
In addition to the stamps John showed a comprehensive collection of Postal Stationery of all types, both unused and used, and finally an introduction to the island postmarks which are popular with collectors.
Formerly the Gilbert Islands, Kiribati obtained independence in 1979 and for many years used the services of the Crown Agents, (later CASCO) but decided to make other arrangements in 2015 for an issue for the Queens 90th Birthday in 2016. Hugh acted as instigator, go-between and project manager between the photographer Ian James, the designer Derek Miller, the Kiribati authorities, the Commonwealth and Foreign Office, the Palace and finally the Printer.
In retelling the events he was able to show unadopted designs, photographic changes, colour proofs without values, correspondence with the Palace regarding the use of photos and permissions needed. Time was of the essence to ensure necessary changes were done quickly, approvals received and printers scheduled, thus the issue was finally despatched using DHL Direct arriving just two days before the issue date.
Further issues followed using Hugh’s expertise and contacts, and these were shown with printers’ sheets, proofs, final issues, miniature sheets and First Day Covers etc. All in all a most unusual and informative display, with much original material, photographs and correspondence in addition to the actual stamps, including full sheets, and covers.
John Ray: Fiji
John started by giving a brief history of the islands and geographical information. He then went on to detail the Fiji Express service and stamps, and then an extensive display of the “CR” and “VR” monogram issues and the numerous overprints and surcharges made there-on for new values and change of currency. A generous number of perforation and plate varieties were also shown. The KEVII and KGV Key plate issues were well presented followed by the first pictorial set of KGVI, this latter including the KEVIII photograph essays which were adapted for the new monarch after the abdication, etc.
In addition to the stamps John showed a comprehensive collection of Postal Stationery of all types, both unused and used, and finally an introduction to the island postmarks which are popular with collectors.
David Gordon, Hugh Bennet and John Ray with Graham Boutle.
(Visiting from Australia)
(Visiting from Australia)
A Wednesday in September 2019
TWO DISPLAYS: THREE COUNTRIES: OVER 400 SHEETS.
The Society has had two unusual displays in September. The first by John Shaw, FRPSL was of Haiti and Paraguay, and as far as living memory goes the first and only time either of these two countries have been shown to the Society. Both displays were spectacular containing a wealth of unusual material from early issues, through various revolutions and presidents with essays, trials specimen overprints, numerous overprint errors etc.
The second display was Ceylon by Cliff Hurst from first issues until it changed its name to Sri Lanka. Again there were early proofs, many overprints with numerous errors, early booklets etc. Another feature was the extensive and comprehensive range of postal stationery cards, envelopes, newspaper wrappers and registered envelopes. In all about 250 sheets shown in three parts, probably the most that has been shown to the soceity for any one country on any one evening.
The second display was Ceylon by Cliff Hurst from first issues until it changed its name to Sri Lanka. Again there were early proofs, many overprints with numerous errors, early booklets etc. Another feature was the extensive and comprehensive range of postal stationery cards, envelopes, newspaper wrappers and registered envelopes. In all about 250 sheets shown in three parts, probably the most that has been shown to the soceity for any one country on any one evening.
Wednesday, 14th August 2019.
Members' Favourite Items.
Members' favourite items included a wide range of material; from Spilsbury PPCs to 1850 Sydney Views on the first issue from New South Wales; the Music of Strauss, Wagner and Delius to the roar of the Tristan da Cunha Volcano Eruption in 1961. Then early Postal Orders of the Straits Settlements and Ceylon, Barbados WWI War Tax issues, and the Inauguration of Nairobi airport by a member who was involved with the Oil Supply terminal.
Also shown was the special pack produced at the 2000 Earls Court Exhibition for the Jeffery Matthews Machin Colour Palette with signed contents. Finally a wide range of medical and health related thematics.
Also shown was the special pack produced at the 2000 Earls Court Exhibition for the Jeffery Matthews Machin Colour Palette with signed contents. Finally a wide range of medical and health related thematics.
Wednesday, 10th July 2019.
Birthe and Chris King
Birthe King gave her display and slide show: Refugee Camps in Denmark 1945-1949.
At the end of the war approximately 250,000 German soldiers and 250,000 refugees from different European countries were in Denmark and were housed in various camps throughout the country, varying in numbers from 1000 to 35,000 in each.
Birthe’s display included letters and covers to and from many of these camps, and nationalities, accompanied by documents, postcards and photographs. She commented on the different status and regulations regarding the different classes of refugees, the types of accommodation provided and facilities for families and children etc.
It was a well organised and thought provoking display, clearly and knowledgeably presented.
Chris King gave his display and slide show: Denmark and the Napoleonic Wars.
Not so much a history lesson but a commentary on some events in which Denmark or the Danes had been involved. Chris set thepolitical scene as it was in 1800, the battle of Copenhagen in 1801 when Nelson famously “did not read the signal with his blind eye," then the “Continental System” a blockade of Europe denying the British ships entry to European ports. This was followed by the consequences after Trafalgar when the Danish Fleet was coveted by France, and the 2nd Battle of Copenhagen in 1807 when the British seized the Danish fleet.
A review of the Grand Armee itemised its various marches and campaigns, postal markings, etc. Chris explained the significance of Anholt an island at the entrance to the Baltic Sea, seized by the British and designated HMS Anholt in 1809, eventually returned after the Treaty of Kiel 1814.
Finally Chris talked of the Danish involvement in the “Demilitarised Zone along the French/German border after Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo for the period 1816-1818.
At the end of the war approximately 250,000 German soldiers and 250,000 refugees from different European countries were in Denmark and were housed in various camps throughout the country, varying in numbers from 1000 to 35,000 in each.
Birthe’s display included letters and covers to and from many of these camps, and nationalities, accompanied by documents, postcards and photographs. She commented on the different status and regulations regarding the different classes of refugees, the types of accommodation provided and facilities for families and children etc.
It was a well organised and thought provoking display, clearly and knowledgeably presented.
Chris King gave his display and slide show: Denmark and the Napoleonic Wars.
Not so much a history lesson but a commentary on some events in which Denmark or the Danes had been involved. Chris set thepolitical scene as it was in 1800, the battle of Copenhagen in 1801 when Nelson famously “did not read the signal with his blind eye," then the “Continental System” a blockade of Europe denying the British ships entry to European ports. This was followed by the consequences after Trafalgar when the Danish Fleet was coveted by France, and the 2nd Battle of Copenhagen in 1807 when the British seized the Danish fleet.
A review of the Grand Armee itemised its various marches and campaigns, postal markings, etc. Chris explained the significance of Anholt an island at the entrance to the Baltic Sea, seized by the British and designated HMS Anholt in 1809, eventually returned after the Treaty of Kiel 1814.
Finally Chris talked of the Danish involvement in the “Demilitarised Zone along the French/German border after Napoleon’s defeat at Waterloo for the period 1816-1818.
Ron Burn expressed thanks on behalf of the members for two very interesting displays and well presented evening, and presented Certificates and the Society Pen/Pencil sets to both Birthe and Chris.
Wednesday, 12th June 2019.
Members Evening: Postcards
The following members displayed.
Helena Butcher: The Three Choirs Festival featuring Gloucester, Hereford and Worcester Cathedrals, architecture, notable features such as the Mappa Mundi and Chained library at Hereford; royal graves including Osric, Edward II, John etc; composers and musicians especially Elgar etc. David Milsted: G.B. Army Officials used on covers and cards,with PPC of the place of posting. Mike Dobbs: NATO cards incl. Paris and Mons H.Q's and other establishments, Regimental items, Boer War items including the Devonshire Regiment and “The Buffs” Ron Burn: 150+ cards of “Ships Which have Visited Tristan” from a wide range of countries and various types of vessel, published by Reverend Edwards. Grahame Boutle: Postmen and Women, Letter Carriers and Pillar Boxes. |
Ron Burn (Hon. President) presented a Society Pen and Pencil set to Helena Butcher, President of Croydon Picture Postcard Club.
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Wednesday, 5th June 2019.
Twenty members sat down to a very enjoyable annual lunch
at the Langley Park Golf Club on the 5th June.
Wednesday, 22nd May 2019.
President's Competition and A.G.M.
The President's Cup being presented to Chris Sands.
Ron Burn being presented with the President's chain of office by the outgoing President, Graham Boutle.
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Ten entries were received for 2019 and the President selected Chris Sands’ “Kelantan” as the winner, and presented him with the cup. David Milsted was the runner up.
At the A.G.M. Ron Burn was installed as President, and Len Barnes was elected President-Elect. All other officers and committee members we re-elected unchanged. Honorary Life Member: David Rennie. Ron Burn reiterated how much the Society owed to David for its continuing success during the 15 years of his Secretaryship, and especially his organising of the Society’s Stamp Fairs and his authorship of the new book, amongst other activities. He proposed that David be elected an Honorary Life Member, which was immediately seconded by Mike Dobbs, and greeted with spontaneous applause from the assembled members. David Rennie at Azelia Hall, Beckenham on the 5th January 2019.
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Saturday, 11th May 2019.
The K.F.P.S. Federation Rally
Bromley & Beckenham Philatelic Society Stamp and Postcard Fair hosting the Kent Federation of Philatelic Societies A.G.M., Federation Day Rally and Competitions was opened by the Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Nicholas Bennett, J.P. accompanied by the Lady Mayoress, and also attended by another local councillor, at the Langley Park Boys School, Eden Park.
Right: The Mayor happy to receive a donation cheque for the Mayor's charity.
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Wednesday, 8th May 2019.
Bring your own Album / Sheets & Bourse.
An Unusual Members Evening: At which members had been asked to bring their own sheets or albums on any subject which they wanted and the following were displayed :-.
George Whitehorn: Saint Lucia general collection to early QEII.
Thomas Gray: Complete sets of the Winners sheets for the 2012 Summer and Paralympic Games.
Andrew Harris: Saint Lucia specialised mint, many UMM, collection Queen Victoria including multiples, plate number items, Specimens and Proofs, Bisects, and also the Saint Lucia Steamship Company local issues.
Peter Newman: General Government issues during the Occupation of Poland 1939-1944 on sheets, plus an album of Oil thematics etc.
John Palfreyman; Embryo collection of Agricultural Machinery.
Ian Reed: Ascension collection and Music thematics in two albums.
Carole McCarthy: Two albums with Germany 1999-2007 collection including sheetlets, and Israel 1970-85 mint collection, all tabbed.
William Morris: Items from Canada bought on a recent trip, plus Bahamas mint selection including Staircase and KGV types and War Tax overprints.
David Milsted: G.B.: QV and KEVII Parcel labels with mainly Official overprinted stamps and unusual rates or destinations including Ceylon, more officials in an album.
Ian Crees: Run-through collection of Pakistan 2000-2010.
Mike Dobbs: G.B.: Various Parcel Services, labels and leaflets including Night Riders, then a range on less often seen modern postmarks on covers and pieces.
Len Barnes: Martinique, a miscellaneous collection of island mail.
David Rennie: A developing G.B. and British Commonwealth fine used collection QV - KGV in two Stanley Gibbons New Imperial albums.
George Whitehorn: Saint Lucia general collection to early QEII.
Thomas Gray: Complete sets of the Winners sheets for the 2012 Summer and Paralympic Games.
Andrew Harris: Saint Lucia specialised mint, many UMM, collection Queen Victoria including multiples, plate number items, Specimens and Proofs, Bisects, and also the Saint Lucia Steamship Company local issues.
Peter Newman: General Government issues during the Occupation of Poland 1939-1944 on sheets, plus an album of Oil thematics etc.
John Palfreyman; Embryo collection of Agricultural Machinery.
Ian Reed: Ascension collection and Music thematics in two albums.
Carole McCarthy: Two albums with Germany 1999-2007 collection including sheetlets, and Israel 1970-85 mint collection, all tabbed.
William Morris: Items from Canada bought on a recent trip, plus Bahamas mint selection including Staircase and KGV types and War Tax overprints.
David Milsted: G.B.: QV and KEVII Parcel labels with mainly Official overprinted stamps and unusual rates or destinations including Ceylon, more officials in an album.
Ian Crees: Run-through collection of Pakistan 2000-2010.
Mike Dobbs: G.B.: Various Parcel Services, labels and leaflets including Night Riders, then a range on less often seen modern postmarks on covers and pieces.
Len Barnes: Martinique, a miscellaneous collection of island mail.
David Rennie: A developing G.B. and British Commonwealth fine used collection QV - KGV in two Stanley Gibbons New Imperial albums.
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Wednesday, 24th April 2019.
Some of my favourite Tristan da Cunha by Ron Burn
Ron commenced by giving a résumé of the island’s history, and the personalities involved, before moving on to describe the postal arrangements, such as they were, and the various “Cachets.” Taking each in turn Ron was able to show its use either on original envelopes, or other documents, and photocopies, including colour varieties.
Often these were identified to particular ships or administrative padres responsible for the postal arrangements. Examples included R.M.S. Atlantis in 1934 with type 6, K18 Dutch submarine also on type 6, then 1937/38 types 7 and 8 on Norwegian Survey vessel, another Type 7 “Posted Out of Course,” 1938 Corinthian, another to Cuba and a “SS Queen of Bermuda” ship’s cachet. During W.W.II. T.D.C. was addressed as “Job 9” and later H.M.S. Atlantic Isle. The famous “Potato” stamps were well represented including a sheet of 35 unused (only 7 sheets known thus), plus others used on covers etc. Design differences were noted.
Ron continued with the issue of overprinted St. Helena stamps in 1952 after years of requesting its own stamps with examples of the ”Hammerhead T” variety in the overprint. Examples of suggested designs by Hugh Elliot were shown (with King George V portrait), and the first dedicated issues of Queen Elizabeth eventually issued in 1954. New designs by Mr & Mrs G F Harris were issued in sterling in 1960 and South African currency in 1961, before the island was evacuated following the eruption by the volcano later than year.
The “exile” period, resettlement survey and eventual return to the island in 1963 were well illustrated by numerous letters, postcards and documents, with comments about the unauthorised and hastily withdrawn, St. Helena Relief Fund overprints: only 434 sets were sold. On return the “Resettlement” overprints on St. Helena issues were made available and Ron was able to show both a block of four and a single on cover of the very rare 3d. with double black.
Other items of particular note included air letters and registered postal envelopes, the first booklet of 1957, followed by those of 1958 etc. More modern items included miniature sheets and thematic sets, where Ron and others in the Tristan Society had assisted in choosing the locally relevant designs and events. Ron also showed a set of Postage Dues with sheet number 1 on each value.
The whole display was delivered with Ron’s usual enthusiasm and personal knowledge of many of the individuals involved during the period covered. All was presented with photos, letters and other documents making it an enormously interesting and entertaining evening.
Ron commenced by giving a résumé of the island’s history, and the personalities involved, before moving on to describe the postal arrangements, such as they were, and the various “Cachets.” Taking each in turn Ron was able to show its use either on original envelopes, or other documents, and photocopies, including colour varieties.
Often these were identified to particular ships or administrative padres responsible for the postal arrangements. Examples included R.M.S. Atlantis in 1934 with type 6, K18 Dutch submarine also on type 6, then 1937/38 types 7 and 8 on Norwegian Survey vessel, another Type 7 “Posted Out of Course,” 1938 Corinthian, another to Cuba and a “SS Queen of Bermuda” ship’s cachet. During W.W.II. T.D.C. was addressed as “Job 9” and later H.M.S. Atlantic Isle. The famous “Potato” stamps were well represented including a sheet of 35 unused (only 7 sheets known thus), plus others used on covers etc. Design differences were noted.
Ron continued with the issue of overprinted St. Helena stamps in 1952 after years of requesting its own stamps with examples of the ”Hammerhead T” variety in the overprint. Examples of suggested designs by Hugh Elliot were shown (with King George V portrait), and the first dedicated issues of Queen Elizabeth eventually issued in 1954. New designs by Mr & Mrs G F Harris were issued in sterling in 1960 and South African currency in 1961, before the island was evacuated following the eruption by the volcano later than year.
The “exile” period, resettlement survey and eventual return to the island in 1963 were well illustrated by numerous letters, postcards and documents, with comments about the unauthorised and hastily withdrawn, St. Helena Relief Fund overprints: only 434 sets were sold. On return the “Resettlement” overprints on St. Helena issues were made available and Ron was able to show both a block of four and a single on cover of the very rare 3d. with double black.
Other items of particular note included air letters and registered postal envelopes, the first booklet of 1957, followed by those of 1958 etc. More modern items included miniature sheets and thematic sets, where Ron and others in the Tristan Society had assisted in choosing the locally relevant designs and events. Ron also showed a set of Postage Dues with sheet number 1 on each value.
The whole display was delivered with Ron’s usual enthusiasm and personal knowledge of many of the individuals involved during the period covered. All was presented with photos, letters and other documents making it an enormously interesting and entertaining evening.
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Wednesday, 10th April 2019.
The annual Grand Auction on10th April 2019 attracted a higher attendance than in recent years - 36 members + 6 guests. As a result the figures were greatly improved over last year. Gross realisations were £1822 (£1271 in 2018) with £177 (£126) commission to the Society. 162 (127) lots out of total 234(233) lots were sold (69+%).
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Wednesday, 27th March 2019.
VISIT BY THE MEDWAY TOWNS PHILATELIC SOCIETY
The second meeting of March was when Bob Higgins, representing Medway Towns P.S., gave a very fine display of Gibraltar, mainly stamps but including some early postal history items. This is the report in the minutes.
Bob commenced with a few pre-stamp items including an 1820 item to Madrid with S. ROQUE three line handstamp and italic "S", then G.B. stamps used with "G" or "A26" cancellations, then most definitive issues in sets mint and/or used including "Specimen" overprints, many positional Plate blocks etc., and some used on covers to confirm postal rates etc. Excellent high values included Specimen overprints, KEDVII issues to £1; and KGV issues to £5 (this both mint and very fine used).
Bob continued with KGVI issues complete and early QEII sets to 1970. A feature throughout was the inclusion of numerous listed and unlisted plate varieties, including the well-known "Monkey of the Rock" "Bird on the Memorial" on KGVI issues, and many later on QEII issues, also re-entries.
He also showed used Morocco Agencies items for most of the British Agencies from various issues, including Postal Stationery, including the very rare 1898 5c Post Card with "Morocco Agency" (sic) overprint.
The second meeting of March was when Bob Higgins, representing Medway Towns P.S., gave a very fine display of Gibraltar, mainly stamps but including some early postal history items. This is the report in the minutes.
Bob commenced with a few pre-stamp items including an 1820 item to Madrid with S. ROQUE three line handstamp and italic "S", then G.B. stamps used with "G" or "A26" cancellations, then most definitive issues in sets mint and/or used including "Specimen" overprints, many positional Plate blocks etc., and some used on covers to confirm postal rates etc. Excellent high values included Specimen overprints, KEDVII issues to £1; and KGV issues to £5 (this both mint and very fine used).
Bob continued with KGVI issues complete and early QEII sets to 1970. A feature throughout was the inclusion of numerous listed and unlisted plate varieties, including the well-known "Monkey of the Rock" "Bird on the Memorial" on KGVI issues, and many later on QEII issues, also re-entries.
He also showed used Morocco Agencies items for most of the British Agencies from various issues, including Postal Stationery, including the very rare 1898 5c Post Card with "Morocco Agency" (sic) overprint.
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Wednesday, 13th March 2019.
Annual Competition Evening.
The first meeting of March was the annual Competitions evening.
The results were as follows :-
Thematic Cup. Grahame Boutle. Architecture of the Islamic Faith.
Jubilee Cup (Airmails). Graeme Ashdown. New Zealand 1931 Christmas airmails.
Gillman-Davis Cup (Postal History). Ron Burn. Tristan Da Cunha World War II.
Gibbons Salver (Stamps). Ian Reed. Australia GV Surface Printed Kings Heads.
Tom Davis Crystal Bowl. Ron Burn.
(Best Overall).
Peter O'Keeffe was our judge for the night.
The first meeting of March was the annual Competitions evening.
The results were as follows :-
Thematic Cup. Grahame Boutle. Architecture of the Islamic Faith.
Jubilee Cup (Airmails). Graeme Ashdown. New Zealand 1931 Christmas airmails.
Gillman-Davis Cup (Postal History). Ron Burn. Tristan Da Cunha World War II.
Gibbons Salver (Stamps). Ian Reed. Australia GV Surface Printed Kings Heads.
Tom Davis Crystal Bowl. Ron Burn.
(Best Overall).
Peter O'Keeffe was our judge for the night.
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Wednesday, 27th February 2019.
The President invited two members to give their displays in turn, and thanking them afterwards, presented each with a Society mug.
William Morris showed a general run-through collection of Falkland Islands, the Dependencies and South Georgia, mainly mint with much unmounted, and some used. He commented on some of the higher values in the sets, miniature sheets etc, and the attractive thematic nature of the modern issues, especially ships, seals, and others, with local interest including the £1+£1 Rebuilding Fund items.
David Milsted showed Great Britain Army Official overprinted stamps used on 51 covers, mainly internally within the U.K. or to the Army in South Africa during the Boer War, but also some in the opposite direction.
He included a 1st September 1896 first day item, a 28th February 1900 cover used in Ladysmith on the last day of the siege; the scarce QV 6d used with KEVII ½ds and 1ds making 1s rate to an internment camp in Ceylon, and another on a parcel label.
Overprint varieties included the “OFFICIAI” and “narrow L”, and scarce usages such as a pair 2½ds on a Book Post item, and no less than 8 paying the 1/8d rate on a Paymaster cover from Cardiff to Nova Scotia.
Moving to KEVII issues there were two 6d covers to the U.S.A., 3 more on a cover with ½ds and 1ds making 2/0½d rate; a Christmas card to Malta at the 2½d rate; and a ½d used on a registered item to Preston. There was an example of the “long stroke on 2nd ”F” variety. The whole delivered with David’s knowledgeable commentary.
The largest item on display was to South Africa with 68 x ½d green and 24 x 1d making 4/10d rate.
William Morris showed a general run-through collection of Falkland Islands, the Dependencies and South Georgia, mainly mint with much unmounted, and some used. He commented on some of the higher values in the sets, miniature sheets etc, and the attractive thematic nature of the modern issues, especially ships, seals, and others, with local interest including the £1+£1 Rebuilding Fund items.
David Milsted showed Great Britain Army Official overprinted stamps used on 51 covers, mainly internally within the U.K. or to the Army in South Africa during the Boer War, but also some in the opposite direction.
He included a 1st September 1896 first day item, a 28th February 1900 cover used in Ladysmith on the last day of the siege; the scarce QV 6d used with KEVII ½ds and 1ds making 1s rate to an internment camp in Ceylon, and another on a parcel label.
Overprint varieties included the “OFFICIAI” and “narrow L”, and scarce usages such as a pair 2½ds on a Book Post item, and no less than 8 paying the 1/8d rate on a Paymaster cover from Cardiff to Nova Scotia.
Moving to KEVII issues there were two 6d covers to the U.S.A., 3 more on a cover with ½ds and 1ds making 2/0½d rate; a Christmas card to Malta at the 2½d rate; and a ½d used on a registered item to Preston. There was an example of the “long stroke on 2nd ”F” variety. The whole delivered with David’s knowledgeable commentary.
The largest item on display was to South Africa with 68 x ½d green and 24 x 1d making 4/10d rate.
Above right: The Queen Victoria multi-franked large cover to South Africa.
Above: The display of the Falkland Islands.
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Below: General view of the display.
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Wednesday, 13th February 2019.
CLUB COMPETITIONS
The Oliver Nugent Cup: Letter “B”
Nine members participated. Ron Burn: “Bouvet Island” acquired in 1955 with a few expeditions to 1975, then set up as a Weather Station by South Africa. David Milsted: “Balancing the Books” a selection of Inland Revenue Officials on covers etc. Ian Reed: “Beethoven Born in Bonn”, then his life and music. Jenny Viggars: “B” = Blue Beards & Baldness, Beautiful Buildings & Balancing Birds, Blissful Beds & Blankets, (Un) Broken Bottles & Branches, Bouncing Balls & Bowls; Books, Blackboards & Brain-boxes, Bonny Babies & Brave Boys, Buoyant Boats & Bendy Bananas. Mike Dobbs: “Berlin Airlift.” Covers and commemoratives. David Rennie: “Burdens Borne by the British”: B.C.O.F. Japan; B.M.A. Burma; Barclays/Benghazi Bi-lingual postmarks/Business post with M.E.F. stamps; B.M.A. Malaya with bi-coloured values; B.M.A. North Borneo including Blue and Royal Blue varieties; British Mandate in Palestine “AR” cover in Registered post; B.M.A. Somalia with “2 SH .50 CTS". Variety; British Mandate Transjordan both Recess and Litho sets 1939 and 1942. Peter Newman: “Berlin Bell” 3 different clapper sets etc., cast in Croydon. Graeme Ashdown: “Bees” their life and death and importance to Human Beings including New Zealand Bee Tax stamps, Gloria Swanson in “Killer Bees” by Cecil B de Mille, Bumble Bees with Mr Bumble, Hamlet “To Be or Not to BE”, Bee Orchid, Beehive Building, Bee Eaters. Grahame Boutle: “Burying the Dead” including visit to undertakers, coffin makers, tombs and tablets, cars and bearers, burial permit, rite of burial, grave sharing, and epitaph. ---------------------------- Graeme Ashdown was judged the clear winner by five club member judges, and presented with the Cup by the President. ---------------------------- Right: Graeme Ashdown with the Oliver Nugent Cup. |
Wednesday, 23rd January 2019.
Robin Tapper gave his display and talk about Bromley & District Postal History.
His earliest item, a Corsini letter, was 1573 Paris to London which may have come via Rye, Sevenoaks, Bromley, and Lewisham using the so called “rippiers” or fish carriers of Rye, but without marks to confirm this. Other early items included 1699 mentioning the Post Office at Bromley, 1798 with BROMLEY “serpentine” handstamp only in use for four years 1797-1801, FARNBOROUGH straight-line 1817, TP/HAYES K on 1840 1d Mulready etc. Having traced the developments of the Bromley Post Office through its various postmarks and cancellers, Robin was able to do a similar presentation for all the satellite and smaller towns and villages including station offices etc, and numerous skeleton types, albeit limited by the earlier marks being non-existent, and most later nineteenth century marks being extremely scarce and elusive. This was further exacerbated by the poor or over inked quality of many of the marks. Nevertheless it was a fascinating display of great interest to our members some of whom live in places such a Chislehurst, Orpington and Bickley as well as the Crays, Crofton, Chelsfield, Knockholt, Biggin Hill etc. |
Robbin Tapper & Hon. President Grahame Boutle.
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He was able to comment and illustrate the fact of Bromley being in the General Post, the London Two-penny Post from 1833, and having its own Penny Post, formed in 1837, and a set of Fifth Clause Posts in the Cray villages giving its inhabitants a wide choice of services.
B & B P S Annual Dinner - 16th January 2019
The Thirteenth Annual Dinner of the Society, (87th Birthday), took place at Langley Park Golf Club on 16th January 2019, when 31 members and guests were seated, and enjoyed good food and convivial company.
Wednesday, 9th January 2019.
Netherlands Antilles by Chris Sands.
Chris Sands gave his display of the Netherlands Antilles, being virtually complete 1942 to 2010, (when the individual constituents began issuing their own stamps), in unmounted mint condition on his own designed printed leaves, including definitives, commemoratives, miniature sheets, IPOS Greetings sets etc. Right: Chris Sands and Hon. President Grahame Boutle. |
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