When Brent had Three Halls

Lily Style May 2022

On 12th January 1912, Western Daily Mercury noted in its ‘Western Table Talk’ column: 

‍  South Brent, unlike most country towns of its size, is blessed with three large halls for public functions, meetings, etc. The new Church Coronation Hall (as it appears to have been named) has just been opened, having been built at a cost of over £1,000. There are also the old Church Hall and the Millswood Hall. 

Why did South Brent once have three large halls, and where were they located? Their combined histories reveal some surprising details, such as dodgy fire escape options; conversion to hold German prisoners of war; and long-term use as an auction venue for a founder of the modern-day Luscombe and Maye estate agent chain. 

Act One: Brent’s First Town Hall

South Brent’s first hall, which, in 1912, Western Daily Mercury named ‘the old Church Hall’, was known as the ‘New Hall’ and ‘Town Hall’ for half-a-century until it fell out of use after the openings of two bigger halls in the early 1900s. It still stands at the end of Church Street. Cheerfully painted blue and yellow, it’s now the home of Coulton Antique Clocks, though the building retains the name ‘the Old Hall’. 

Western Times reported its opening on 20th July 1861: 

BRENT 

‍    OPENING OF A NEW HALL.––On Wednesday a neat and spacious public hall for concerts, lectures, &c., was opened in this town. The Rev. N. Cole, the incumbent, has won for himself the thanks and esteem of his parishioners, by his conduct in this respect. The building has been erected entirely at this gentleman’s own cost, at an outlay of about £500 ; and it is intended to be used as a literary institute, with the adjacent reading room, library, choral class, and so forth. Mr. Heath, of Totnes, is the architect and builder. The inauguration of the new building was rendered interesting by a concert, which was given by the Choral Society of the place, and which was formed no longer ago than last Christmas by Mr. Grist. The attendance was numerous. The performances were excellent, and gave great satisfaction. 

The newspaper archive reveals no record of an earlier hall in South Brent, though Exeter and Plymouth Gazette mention the 'beautiful old church of South Brent' being reopened in 1853 following a complete restoration, and it’s possible that an older church hall had become derelict. 

South Brent’s new hall has one mention in the 1860s, when Totnes Weekly Times reported, on 21st August 1869: 

HOW THEY KEEP UP THE BAND AT SOUTH BRENT. –– A concert was given in the New Hall at South Brent on Monday evening last, under distinguished patronage, in aid of the funds of the 28th Devon Rifle Band. The vocalists were Miss Snell, Capt. Westhead, and Messrs. Scott, Littlejohns, and Fuzzard. The instrumentalists were R. Hall, Esq., and Messrs. Hart (cornet), and H. Cornish. The band of the corps was also present. Master Rowlands, of Plymouth, quite a youth, skilfully performed on the violin, which elicited immense applause… 

1870s

There are just a handful of press mentions for it during the 1870s. For example, in May 1874, Western Daily Mercury reported: 

SOUTH BRENT CHORAL SOCIETY:––This Society gave its first concert for the second season at the Hall, [South] Brent, last evening, and conducted by Mr. W. H. Hanford, was as successful as those which have previously been given… 

In August 1874, the Mercury covered the first show of South Brent Cottage Garden Society in 'the new hall, South Brent'. Worse weather 'can scarcely be imagined for an exhibition of any sort than that which visited the quiet little village of South Brent, on Thursday… therefore, it was no wonder that South Brent and its inhabitants looked sadly forlorn in the incessant drizzle which set upon them yesterday…' 

In October 1875, the New Hall hosted the 'annual dinner, supplied by Mr. Davis, of the Pack Horse Inn… There was large attendance…' (Western Morning News, 23rd October 1875).

By January 1876, South Brent had a new vicar, Reverend Speare-Cole, who 'kindly lent' the New Hall for a meeting, presided by Mr. Cornish-Bowden of Black Hall, to discuss the need for additional markets, 'There having long been complaints amongst the landowners and farmers in neighbourhood of South Brent of the want of opportunities in the vicinity for the disposal of their stock and farm produce…' (Western Times 26th May 1876) A further public meeting was held in May ’76 to 'receive reports of the committee appointed by the inhabitants in January of this year'. 

1880s

The term 'Town Hall' is first used in the 1880s, with some of the events now sounding more fun (especially if you’re excited by tea; or eating prime cuts of beef). On 13th February 1886, Totnes Weekly Times reported: 

SOUTH BRENT INSTITUTE. 

‍    On Wednesday afternoon a sale of work took place at the Town Hall, South Brent, in aid of the South Brent Institute. The large room was profusely decorated for the occasion, and the fancy stalls were well laden with miscellaneous varieties… At six o’clock a public tea was provided and well attended… The tea was followed by a promenade concert. The programme was a capital one and of a varied character, and excellently well rendered… 

According to Totnes Weekly Times, a 'very enjoyable entertainment was given in the Town Hall, South Brent, on Tuesday evening [22nd February 1887], with the object of raising funds in aid of South Brent Cricket Club and to clear off the debt of the town hall piano…' And, in May, the paper reported 'An excellent and interesting Service of song has been given in the Town Hall, South Brent, by the choir and children of the Wesleyan Chapel'. On 21st May 1887, Totnes Weekly Times wrote: 

THE JUBILEE AT SOUTH BRENT. 

‍    A meeting of the Jubilee 'Dinner Committee' was held in the Hall, South Brent, last Friday. Mr Hellens was appointed chairman. The principal business of the evening was the ‘purchase of meat for the Jubilee dinner.’ Mr E. Luscombe (butcher) thought it would be impossible to procure all prime joints for the dinner, and strongly advocated the purchase of a whole bullock. Mr Harris objected to the purchase of a whole bullock, as they would have to deal with the inferior joints. There ought to be no difference in the quality of the joints placed before the people on that day. Everyone, doubtlessly, would endeavour to sit near the prime joints, and this, perhaps, would cause a commotion, which it would be well to avoid… 

Safety concerns

The hall was criticised for being unsafe in 1889 (Totnes Weekly Times 16th November 1889): 

TOTNES COUNTY SESSIONS. 

‍    …The Rev Spear Cole applied for a theatrical license in respect to the Hall at Brent. 

‍    Superintendent Ryall said there was only one door, and that opened inwards. 

‍    Mr Cole said he was most particular of the building, and when it was opened he had always a fire engine near. In case of panic, people could easily get out a window on to a room and thence into the street. He generally had someone near the doorway as well. He would be quite willing to have the door open outward. 

‍    The magistrate, on the understanding that every thing possible would be done to make egress easy, and also that the door would be made to open outwards, granted the application. 

‍    The application for a theatrical license for the Pavilion, Avonwick, was granted, the Magistrates themselves being satisfied with the building. 

1890s

The New Hall, now commonly called the Town Hall, was chockablock with events during the 1890s. There was an interesting concert in the Town Hall, in July 1891, provided by Miss Ward, Miss Ada Ward and the Misses Cole to raise money for the Navvy Mission Fund. 

The presence of navvies in South Brent is explained by Kelley’s 1910 Directory, which says the population of South Brent ‘in 1891 was 1,580 (which included 300 men then working on the branch line to Kingsbridge)’. In December ’91, 'Mr. Frederick Parr, who has filled the post of station-master in South Brent for over 35 years, and is now about to retire…’ was presented with a marble clock and purse of sovereigns by Rev Speare-Cole in the Town Hall (Exeter and Plymouth Gazette 31st December 1891). In 1892 and ’93, the Misses Halfpenny ran dancing classes for adults in the New Hall from 6:30 p.m. every Thursday evening. 

Miss Ada Ward, her five sisters and several other Brent ladies, were in the cast of a well attended concert and operetta entitled ‘A Dress Rehearsal’ in the New Hall, on 11th October 1893. ‘The first part of the programme comprised a violin duet by Misses Scott and Foster ; violin solo by Miss F. Scott… banjo solos by Mr P. Bartlett ; concertina solo by Miss Foster ; a duet by the Misses Woodley ; and songs by Mrs Stirling, Rev. Hayard and Mr P. Bartlett… “A Dress Rehearsal,” was exceedingly well staged, being performed entirely by the ladies, and was admirably rendered.’ The cast list is a bit confusing: ‘Miss Jones (Principal of Grove House Academy), Mrs Stirling ; Mademoiselle Epinard (French Governess), Miss Bartlett ; Amy Fibs (afterwards Cinderella), Miss L. Ward ; (Clara Wilkins (afterwards the Prince), Miss E. Ward ; Martha Higgins and Carry Jackson (afterwards the spiteful sisters), Miss E. Pinwill and Miss E. Scott ; Mrs Garvey (Elocution Mistress), Miss M. Pinwill ; Sarah Anne (Greedy Girl, Miss A. Ward ; Sophonisba Spivins (Romantic Girls), Miss E. H. Ward ; Miss Prudence Pichbeck (a Visitor), Miss N. Foster ; Rosa Jennings (afterwards Fairy Godmother), Miss N. Ward ; Servant, Miss R. Foster.’ 

The hall’s fire safety had evidently improved by 1893, when Totnes Weekly Times listed the licenses issued to Brent on 14th October: 

LICENSES. 

‍    Mr Cranch, of South Brent, was granted a firework license. 

‍    Mr Beer, of the London Inn, South Brent, was allowed a license to sell intoxicants in a booth at the annual ploughing matches of the Totnes Union Agricultural Society from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

‍    A theatrical license was granted for the New Hall, South Brent, 

There were massive, daylong celebrations in South Brent, Loddiswell and Kingsbridge when the Kingsbridge branch line opened on 18th December 1893. Western Morning News writes: 

‍ 

OPENING OF KINGSBRIDGE RAILWAY 

‍    At the opening of the Kingsbridge branch of G.W.R. to-day the Rifle Volunteers will form a guard of honour at the arrival of the train at 12:45, bringing the head officials and directors from Paddington. The officials will be received by the Local Board and the port reeves and bailiffs of Kingsbridge and Dodbrooke. In procession proceeded by the Volunteer band the company will march to the Townhall for luncheon. Mr. F. B. Mildmay, M.P., will be present. The chair will be taken by Mr. J. S. Hurrell, the lord of the manor. Loddiswell, under the chairmanship of Rev. T. F. Boultbee, has arranged to give all the children a tea and amusements during the day. At night there will be a firework display. The Loddiswell people intend to meet in as large numbers as possible on the station platforms to show the directors of the G.W.R. that there is a population to be served. Hundreds of Loddiswell folks have also signified their intention to travel to Kingbridge in the evening to take part in the carnival, the village brass band joining the procession. The trains by which the 2,000 free tickets are available are timed to leave Kingsbridge at 11, 1:30, and 3.30, and between 300 and 400 people will go by rail. A football match will be played in the afternoon between Kingsbridge and Totnes Wanderers. Subscriptions already amount to over £100. 

‍    The first passenger trains to pass over Kingsbridge branch is timed to leave Brent at a quarter to nine this morning. Mr. J. R. T. Kingwell, lord of Brent manor, has received 145 free train tickets for distribution amongst the inhabitants of Brent, and these have been eagerly sought after. They are available only for this train and one which will start from Kingsbridge, for the return journey at half-past five. A free tea will be given to all the children of the parish of Brent in the hall, and a dance will take place in the large room of the Pack Horse Hotel from 7 to 10 p.m. The poor, who are in receipt of parochial relief, will have from 1s. to 1s. 6d. given to them in money. The new station at Brent (an exceedingly pretty and well arranged structure) has been nicely decorated under the direction of the stationmaster, Mr. Wilcocks. 

The hall hosted an eclectic mixture of events during the final six years of the 19th century: Tute’s Minstrels; a service of song to raise money for church bells; an Evangelist lecture about the signs of the coming of the Lord, and the Great Tribulation; a meeting for people interested preserving fishing in the Avon and Erme; a social gathering to raise money for a Sunday school seaside outing; an anti-Irish independence speech by MP Mildmay; the ‘usual entertainment and Christmas Tree’ on Boxing Day 1895; a dramatic entertainment (again featuring Miss Ada Ward) with Dr Style as the prompter; a concert by the Private Orchestral Society conducted by Mr H. Woodward; and, on 16th December 1899, another lecture by MP Mildmay, this time about the history of the Transvaal, in which the ‘proceedings were opened by the singing of “Rule Britannia” by Mr Nugent of Totnes.’ 

1900s

Act Two: Millswood Hall – South Brent’s Lost Giant

South Brent’s first public hall, now the home of Coulton Antique Clocks, was chockablock with events during the final decade of the 1800s. However, according to Western Morning News (2nd May 1901) there was growing need for a larger venue: 

CONCERT AT BRENT 

‍    Brent Choral Society, formed at the beginning of the present year, gave its first concert last evening. the performance was in every way admirable and Mr W. D. Saunders must be commended on having brought a chorus and orchestra of over fifty performers to such a degree of efficiency. it was, however, a cause for regret that such an able number of performers had not a larger space in which to display their capabilities, for the hall at Brent was far from being adequate accommodation. 

Western Times reported a public meeting in the Boy’s Board Schoolroom, on 3rd March 1902: 

PROPOSED PUBLIC HALL FOR SOUTH BRENT

‍    A largely attended public meeting of the inhabitants of South Brent took place in the Boys’ Board Schoolroom on Monday night, in response to a suggestion as to the formation of a limited company to raise the required capital for a public hall. Mr J. R. T. Kingwell, J.P. (lord of the manor), who was voted to the chair, gave the approximate cost of the proposed hall as £600, irrespective of the site. They could easily calculate the income from the present societies as £25 per year, without travelling operas or concert parties, lecturers, meetings, etc.––After a discussion, the meeting voted unanimously in favour of the scheme, and shares to the amount of £177 were subscribed for. A ballot for a Committee of seven from the number of proposed shareholders resulted as follows :–– Dr. Style, 25 votes ; Messrs. W. H. Hawke, 23 ; J. R. T. Kingwell, 21 ; R. H. Gill, 20 ; T. Paddon, 16 ; G. Collier, 15 ; W. Hull, 11. The Committee have power to add to their number, but such additions are to be taken from shareholders only. It was resolved that the Committee should ascertain particulars and prices of various suitable sites, with draft plans of the proposed building, and report to a future meeting. 

Unfortunately, the committee’s investigation found that the cost of the new hall would be far beyond their available budget, so the plan was put on hold (Western Times on 14th June 1902): 

SOUTH BRENT PUBLIC HALL 

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‍    A public meeting took place in the Board Schools at South Brent to receive the report of the committee appointed to carry out the proposed Town Hall arrangements. Mr Kingwell presiding. In submitting the report, the chairman said that several plans had been pursued, and tenders invited, the least being £595. The cost of land would be £100, and an additional £100 might be estimated for furniture and fittings, or a total of about £800. The amount of shares taken up was only £380. A long discussion ensued, and finally the committee agreed to pay their own costs to date, and leave the matter in abeyance. 

Hawke’s rescue swoop

William Henry Hawke, owner of Millswood Mills, and a committee member of, the now aborted, new hall project, took matters into his own hands by converting the first-floor of his refurbished mill into a spacious ballroom, with a stage and adjoining dining area large enough too seat about a hundred people. 

Dartmouth & South Hams Chronicle report of 9th December 1904 describes the newly-created Millswood Hall in vivid detail: 

MR. W. H. HAWKE AND “MILLSW00D MILLS.” 

A SOUTH BRENT ENTERPRISE. 

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‍    The extensive manufacturing premises known as Millswood Mills, South Brent, situated within about three minutes' walk from the town, were built about forty years ago for the manufacture of paper by Messrs Peter Adams and Co. The paper ministry failed, and the mills were subsequently used for shoddy, and at a later date for the manufacture of compressed leather. These industries were also abandoned, and as a result the premises were unoccupied for several years, a caretaker living in the residential premises adjoining. The buildings were acquired by Mr W. H. Hawke, milling and general merchant, of South Brent, three or four years ago, and for some time utilised as cider stores. There is an abundant water supply taken from the river Avon, and a powerful water wheel is thus driven. Mr Hawke decided to abandon the small mill, which he rented near the railway bridge and to fit up premises with modern machinery and equipment ; the offices and coal stores near the Station being brought into communication by a private telephone line. 

‍    Millswood Mills are well built, five storeys high, and adjoining it a beautiful residence, gardens, etc , commanding one of the prettiest views of the Avon Valley. About a year was spent in re-modelling and fixing up-to-date machinery, corn bins, and elevators, erecting stables, and work-men's cottages, and other requisites. The second storey of the building (which is nearly level with the field adjoining), was not required for business purposes, and the owner seeing that a large room was necessary in Brent, for dances, concerts and other public functions, then set to work to provide a spacious room 60ft long and 40ft wide, apart from stage space. There are separate ladies' and gentlemen's ante-rooms, lavatories, private room and another large room, containing 

‍    DINING SPACE FOR NEARLY A HUNDRED PERSONS 

The approach is by a short flight of stairs from a new private road emerging from the main road to the mill, and situated on an higher level. Two emergency exits are provided, and all doors made to open outward. The interior of the room is neatly fitted, and the electric light has been installed by Messrs Heath and Co, of Frankfort St. Plymouth, under the able supervision of Mr J Full. Water power drives the dynamo, and the electric light is to be extended throughout the mills, cottages, Millswood House, and through the road leading to the town. 

‍    The new hall, which is to be called Millswood Hall, was opened a few days ago, on the occasion of the coming of age of Miss K. Hawke, the owner's eldest daughter, when a grand ball was given in honour of the double event- About eighty persons dined together in the adjacent room. It was found that the Hall was splendidly adapted to the occasion, and it has been engaged for the South Brent race ball, and two other public functions. For several years a public building, sufficiently large for balls, dances, concerts, and private parties—a particular form of evening amusement appreciated in Brent—has been frequently sought. With the hope of providing such accommodation, a  Committee of Enquiry was formed some two years ago at a public meeting, consisting of Messrs Kingwell, Hawke, Style, Paddon, Collier, Hull, and Gill. This committee held several meetings and consulted architects, but after an expense of about half a guinea each to themselves, the scheme was allowed to drop for the want of adequate support. Mr Hawke, who is a son of Mr W. A. Hawke, of Dartmouth, is to be congratulated on his enterprise in providing what was so badly required, at his own expense. 

Where was Millswood Hall?

The exact location of Millswood Hall takes a bit of sleuthing to figure out. By tragic coincidence, a keen South Brent Archive contributor and resident of Millswood House, Tony Roper, passed away a few months before this article was researched. Millswood House has a mill-like appearance compared to the house beside it, and the assumption could easily be that Tony Roper’s former home had once been Millswood Hall; but Dartmouth & South Hams Chronicle’s description of Millswood hall states it had five-storeys, and a room ‘60ft long and 40ft wide, apart from stage space… separate ladies' and gentlemen's ante-rooms, lavatories, private room and another large room containing dining space for nearly a hundred persons’. 

Details of Millswood House have been published on Luscombe and Maye’s estate agent website and reveal it to be nowhere near large enough to match the Chronicle’s description. 

A Land Registry map attached to Luscombe and Maye’s Millswood House listing reveals a clue: comparing the Land Registry map with a historic map of Millswood Mills shows a huge area marked as a ruin around the white house beside the modern-day Millswood House.

Though Millswood Hall is now nothing more than a pile of, mostly buried, partially built-on rubble, it was clearly colossal (as shown in the artist’s impression at the top of this article). 

Totnes Weekly Times’s report of South Brent’s annual Race Ball, on 21st January 1905, sings the praises of Millswood Hall’s capacity, as well as its state-of-the-art electric lighting: 

SOUTH BRENT RACE BALL  

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‍    The annual South Brent Race Ball was held on Wednesday night. In former years it was usually considered a great success if a company of one hundred assembled, but on the present occasion there were upwards of 200 present, making the largest assembly of the kind in Brent for many years. Millswood Hall, situated a little below South Brent Parish Church, was utilised instead of the schoolroom on this occasion. The electric lighting arrangement, recently installed by Messrs. Heath and Co., of Plymouth, and regulated by Mr. Pengelly, an employee of the owner of the Hall, proved in every way satisfactory… 

Millswood Hall in press clippings 

Western Times, 3rd February 1905 

‍    A very successful performance of amateur theatricals took place in the Millswood Hall, South Brent, on Wednesday afternoon, under the patronage of a very appreciative audience. The chief feature of the programme was a comedietta entitled “ Ideals,” in which the following took part:––Mr. M. Stanley Clarke, Misses M. McLeod, P. Whalley, A. Jackson, N. Mahon, M. Mahon, and C. Whalley. All performers acquitted themselves in admirable style, and a public tea followed. 

‍    The hall was again filled at a concert in the evening, opening with a pianoforte solo by Miss D. Hawke, followed by a capital song by Mr. A. J. Coombe. Dr. Wilkinson contributed violoncello, and Miss Parker a song with good effect. Misses Jeffered and M. McPherson were both heard to advantage in their songs. Mr. A. J. Coombe displayed his unusual skilful ability in a violin solo, and Miss Jackson was applauded for her song. The proceeds were in aid of the hospital fund. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 17th February 1905 

‍    A very successful and fashionably attended dance, arranged by Lieut. Colonel and Mrs. Green for the benefit of the Brent Cricket and Football Clubs, was held in Millswood Hall, Brent, on Valentine’s Day (Tuesday). Miss Symons (Avonwick) kindly superintended arrangements for the recherché supper, and Captain Thursby undertook the carrying out of the very effective decorations. Palms and flowering shrubs were lent by the Misses Carew, of Marley House. Assistance was also given by the Messrs. W. H. Hawke, E. Luscombe, R. H. Gill, J. Gibbs, and F. H. A. Goodman. Miss Bailey’s (Torquay) string band provided capital music. The room was effectively lighted with electricity.

Brixham Western Guardian, 17th January 1907

SOUTH BRENT RACE BALL 

–––– 

‍    The annual ball of the South Brent and Devon and Cornwall Hunt Steeplechases took place in the Millswood Hall, South Brent, on Wednesday night. The spacious room was brilliant with electric light and the artistic decorations of bunting and flags. Everything passed off very successfully under the management of Mr. S. H. Hill, hon. secretary. Mr. S. Cockram acted as M.C. and the Committee were Messrs. J. W. Wakeham, J. Wakeham, W. H. Foss, G. Furneaux, S. Cockram, and A. Knapman. Mrs. Ackland’s Plymouth Quadrille Band provided the music, which was much appreciated. There were about ninety ladies and gentlemen present, and dancing was kept up with much spirit until an early hour this (Thursday) morning. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 10th March 1905 

‍    Amateur performances of the plays “Man Proposes” and “In Honour Bound” have been given in Millswood Hall in aid of the Modbury Harriers… 

Western Times, 7th January 1908

‍ SOUTH BRENT

The annual race ball in connection with the South Brent Races took place in Millswood Hall on Thursday evening….     

Brixham Western Guardian, 2nd April 1908 

ROYAL COON JESTERS 

Grand Concert Combination, 

A R E  C O M I N G. 

SCHOOL ROOM, DEAN PRIOR 

Thursday, April 2nd. 

Part proceeds in aid of Church Organ Fund. 

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MILLSWOOD HALL, SOUTH BRENT,

Saturday & Monday, 

APRIL 4TH AND 6TH. 

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Doors open 7-30. Commence at 8 o’clock. 

Reserved seats 1s. 6d. Front seats 1s. 

Back seats 6d. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, 24th February 1909 

‍    The Millswood Hall, South Brent, was comfortably filled when the local Pierrot Company gave a concert in aid of the Messina Earthquake Fund. A public dance followed being largely attended. 

‍ Western Times reported one of their concerts (8th January 1909): 

SOUTH BRENT 

‍    The popular little moorland health abode is favoured with an early influx of visitors, among whom is the Bishop of Kensington, who preached at the Parish Church on Sunday evening to a large congregation. 

‍    In aid of funds for South Brent Races, a very successful whist drive was held in the Millswood Hall, South Brent, on Tuesday night, over a hundred attending. Mr. M. H. Hellens acted as Honorary Secretary, and Mr. J. W. Wakeham as referee. The catering was most satisfactorily carried out by Mrs. E. Tope. The prizes were won by :–– Ladies : 1. Miss D. Hoare (Luscombe) ; 2. Miss A. Shinner (Belleigh). Gentlemen : 2. Mr. A. Winzer (Brent) ; 2. Mr. A Huxham (Brent). 

1910s

Millswood Hall was still a popular venue at the start of the second decade of the twentieth century. The article below is from Western Times on 19th April 1912: 

‍    On New Year’s Eve the South Brent Pierrot Troupe, assisted by friends, gave a delightful evening’s entertainment in the Millswood Hall. An excellent programme was arranged by Messrs. A Manning and W. Winter. The hall was crowded when the orchestra opened the concert with the “Victory March.” … The pierrot troupe proved themselves equal to their reputation, and gave some clever songs and jokes. Mr. A. Manning sang “Good-bye to Maudie” with his usual ability, while Mr. Harold Gay shone in “The Village Pump.” A capital song, “Come back to me,” was splendidly sung by Mr. J. Hard, as also was “Antonio” by Mr. Pinhey. The duet “Excelsior” was splendidly given by Messrs. J. Hard and A. Manning, while Mr. Winter delighted the audience with “Charlie.” The orchestra then played “The Bohemian Girl,” which was well received. That old favourite, “Nancy Lee,” was sung by Mr. R. H. Tucker. Messrs. Manning and winter excelled themselves in a comic duet “The Foot-ball Match”… 

Fire at Millswood Mills

On 20th June 1912, Brixham Western Guardian reported that the ‘extensive buildings, known as the Millswood Mills, South Brent, where a milling business is carried on by Mr. W. H. Hawke, who is the owner of the property, and the Millswood Engineering and Motor Works occupying another part of the building, had a narrow escape of being destroyed by fire on Sunday afternoon, but by the prompt attention of Mr. Hawke the situation was saved, with little damage, The origin was discovered in one of the workmen’s cottages, which forms part of the main building. Several of the local Fire Brigade were attending a funeral when the signal was given, and without divesting themselves of their Sunday attire, ran from the Church-yard, and, by cutting away some boarding, and with a free supply of water, conveyed buckets by many willing helpers, the flames were soon extinguished without the need of the fire engine. It was very fortunate that the outbreak didn’t happen over night, as Mr. Hawke has an immense stock of corn and general fodder, besides several hundred hogshead of Devonshire cider. In the motor works, Mr. Chenhall has several valuable cars under repair, and others in the course of construction.’

Competition for Millswood

As we saw, when Totnes Weekly Times’s reported South Brent’s Race Ball on 21st January 1905, the paper mentioned previous balls held in the schoolroom (nowadays the Old School Centre). A scan of news archives for the first decade of the twentieth century shows both the schoolroom, and the ‘Town Hall’ (now Coulton Antique Clocks) were used for public functions.  

On 2nd April 1904 (before Millswood Hall had been opened) Totnes Weekly Times reported a theatrical license being granted to ‘the Council Schools at Brent’. The school was used as a polling station for the January 1906 general election where, according to Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, “Mr Mildmay paid a visit, and was loudly cheered.” Intriguingly, according to Totnes Weekly Times (23rd February 1907) ‘A course of four weekly lectures on “Manures,” will be given by Mr. F. V. Dutton, in the Council School, South Brent, commencing at 7 p.m. on Monday. The lecturer will be glad to answer questions and visit farms if desired…’ 

The New/Town Hall was also in very much use. On 11th February 1905 (not long after Millswood Hall’s grand opening) Exeter and Plymouth Gazette reported ‘A well-attended concert was given under the auspices of the C.E.T.S., in the Town Hall, South Brent, under the presidency of the Rev. H. Speare Cole. A capital programme was creditably rendered…’ MP Mildmay attracted a large audience of his constituents in “the Hall, South Brent” in January 1906 (Brixham Western Guardian), and the Totnes Association of Liberals had a meeting in ‘the Hall, South Brent’ in November 1906 (Western Times). In January 1907, Brixham Western Guardian reported a popular concert in the New Hall, South Brent, with the Misses Speare Cole and MacKenzie performing; and, on 3rd April that year, Exeter and Plymouth Gazette made note of a ‘cricket concert at South Brent’ given in the Town Hall to raise money for the new pavilion on the cricket ground. Additionally, by 1908, Mr. John Maye, was staging auctions of household goods in the ‘the Hall’ South Brent. The New/Town Hall is named ‘the Vicar’s Hall’ in three 1909 press coverage of its events: South Brent’s newly formed United Temperance Society met there in January 1909; in August, Plymouth, Stonehouse, and Devonport Battalion of the Boys’ Brigade were treated to a concert there after a twelve mile run across ‘rough and open moorland’; and, in November 1909, ‘Isaac Foot, the prospective Liberal candidate for the Totnes Division, addressed a largely attended meeting at the Vicar's Hall, South Brent’. 

The Vicar’s drive to build a new hall under his control 

On 18th March 1810, Exeter and Plymouth Gazette reported a meeting to discuss building a new church hall. Millswood Hall was evidently not considered good enough by the vicar, who chaired the meeting. The Gazette’s report describes the inadequacy of the old Town Hall, but makes no mention at all of Millswood Hall, nor of its owner and creator, Mr W. H. Hawke. However, three members of the early 1900s hall committee Hawke had been part volunteered for the 1910 committee: Mr R H Gill, Dr Style, and Mr W Hull. 

CHURCH ACTIVITY AT SOUTH BRENT. 

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‍ A NEW HALL

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‍    A largely attended public meeting took place in the Hall, South Brent, on Saturday evening, having been called by the Vicar, the Rev. H. Speare Cole, for the purpose of settling the long-talked-of question of building a new Church Hall, to be used for meetings and a Sunday School. The Vicar presided. He said that the present hall, which was built by his grandfather, was on glebe land, and had become dilapidated and unsuitable for the requirements of the town. As it formed part of the glebe property, he could not advocate rebuilding it with public money. The need of a larger building was obvious. A fund was started in January 1901, which had accumulated £202. He had that day received a donation of £40 from Mrs. Stewart of Bright (applause)––making a total of £242. The proposed hall had given rise to opposition, because it was contemplated to erect it on glebe land. The difficulty had been a keen one, but after a lot of correspondence with the Bishop’s solicitors, and interviews with the Bishop, he had solved the difficulty by buying the land from the Ecclesiastical Trustees, and was prepared to give it for a new hall. Draft plans and agreement had been approved of, and the building would be under the control of the Vicar and the church-wardens. He proposed to raise a further £400 in shares at 4 per cent. 

‍    Questions were invited, and a long discussion ensued. 

‍    Colonel Green moved a resolution that the meeting approve of the scheme, and take immediate steps to set in action, and provide employment. 

‍    Mr. J. B. Richardson seconded, and the resolutions was unanimously carried. 

‍    The Chairman invited shares, and, within a few minutes, the £400 was raised. The following will be among the shareholders: The Rev H Speare Cole, Mr J B Richardson, Col Green, Mr H F W Prince, Mrs Ward, Miss Parker, Mr R H Gill, Mr A Goodman, Dr Style, Mr W Hull, Mr John Maye. Mr. H. Goodman accepted the position of hon. secretary and treasurer. The whole of the shareholders were formed into a Committee, with the power to add. The site of the new hall adjoins the new cemetery near the Lower Station Bridge. 

With the vicar against it, Millswood Hall’s future looked bleak. But, as we’ll see, the First World War shuffled things around to give Millswood Hall a new lease of life. 

Act Three: Coronation Hall

An impatient, anonymous letter was published in Western Morning News, on 28th October 1910: 

SOUTH BRENT PROPOSED HALL

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‍    Sir.––Over six months has elapsed since a public meeting was held at South Brent to decide about building a Church Hall. The capital was raised at the meeting, and it was decided by the shareholders to push the building on as fast as possible, but to everybody’s surprise nothing whatever has been done towards the building beyond that, I am told, the committee has about £700 to spend, and that elaborate plans have been prepared running into twice that amount. So much frightened by the result of the tenders, the committee fainted, and have not been recovered. “Oh, for a business Government,” but “Oh, for a business Committee” who will not go asleep over the work entrusted to them. Bye and bye they will wake up and find the shareholders weary of waiting, and will withdraw their promised assistance. Why is there such unreasonable delay? 

October 17th.                                                                                         SOUTH BRENT. 

There was positive news six weeks later, on 16th December 1910, in Exeter and Plymouth Gazette: 

The long-talked-of new Church hall for South Brent is likely to become a reality. A meeting of the Committee, comprising the Vicar (the Rev. H. Speare-Cole), Messrs. A. Goodman. H. F. W. Prince, W. Hull, and R. H. Gill, and Dr. Style, took place, when a modified plan was submitted by Messrs. Veale and Son, builders, South Brent, and, after a long discussion, was accepted. The work will start almost immediately, and give local labour for the winter. 

Although the new hall was named Coronation Hall for George V's coronation, on 22nd June 1911, it wasn’t officially opened until 13th February 1912. According to Western Times, the hall had been completed about six months prior to its opening. No reason is given for the six-month delay, but it may have been because the wife of committee member, Dr Style, died on 4th August 1911. The family story is that she’d been pregnant with their third child. We’ve now caught up with Western Daily Mercury’s 12th January 1912 ‘Table Talk’ note, transcribed at the start of this article: 

‍    South Brent, unlike most country towns of its size, is blessed with three large halls for public functions, meetings, etc. The new Church Coronation Hall (as it appears to have been named) has just been opened, having been built at a cost of over £1,000. There are also the old Church Hall and the Millswood Hall. 

Exeter and Plymouth Gazette’s 16th February 1912 description of Coronation Hall’s opening, reveals that the committee had expanded to include Colonel Green, Colonel Bourchier, John Maye, Mrs. Ward, Miss Parker, and Mr. J. B. Richardson. Multiple villagers provided stalls and, apparently, a circus (courtesy of Mr Langler): 

NEW HALL AT SOUTH BRENT. 

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OPENING CEREMONY AND BAZAAR. 

‍    The new hall was opened in the presence of a large company. The question of a new hall has been under consideration for some time. A determined effort was made just a year ago, when about £200 had accrued from concerts and other minor events, and various schemes were devised to augment the amount to something like £800 before any attempt be made to start building operations. The following were appointed a Building Committee:—The Rev. H. Speare Cole (vicar), Mr. A. Goodman (hon. secretary). Colonel Green, Colonel Bourchier, Dr. F. W. Style, Messrs. H. F. W. Prince, John Maye, R. H. Gill, W. Hull, Mrs. Ward, Miss Parker, and Mr. J. B. Richardson. The Committee raised over £400 among themselves on loan at 4 per cent. The Vicar gave the land for the site, and in due course building operations were started on land opposite Brent Station. The hall was completed some weeks ago, and it is a credit to those who undertook the venture. The main hall has a floor space of seventy feet by about thirty, and a platform thirty feet by fifteen, and three feet nine inches high. Underneath the platform is a large storage room for chairs, etc. At the back of the platform are two dressing-rooms, fitted with every necessary requisite, with exit to the exterior. Underneath the dressing-rooms are two kitchens, with hot-water apparatus and wash-ups. 

‍    The main entrance to the hall is from the south end, and approached by a lobby from double doors. On the left side of the lobby are cloak-rooms, with a lavatory accommodation. The hall is then entered by a pair of swing doors. There is also another entrance direct to the hall from the east side, near the top end. All the doors are fitted with patent self-opening latches, so that the least push against them they immediately unlock by automatic means. The floor is fixed on springs so as to vibrate for dancing. This fact has created much curiosity. The roof is spanned with iron principals and covered with slate. The inside of the roof is lined matchboard for the purpose of improving the sound. The lighting is excellent, and is supplied through four windows on each side and gas light from the town gas supply. The heating is effected by gas radiators, and every other up-to-date appliance has been introduced as far as funds would permit. 

‍    At the opening ceremony the Vicar gave a few brief details. The Hon Mrs. Jervoise Smith congratulated the people of South Brent on possessing such a splendid building, which was the result of having a real, go-ahead Committee. She then declared the bazaar open. 

‍    The stalls were filled with every kind of merchandise. The arrangements were carried out in good style by Mr. A. Goodman, acting as general hon. secretary, Mr. 0. C. Winzer, as hon. secretary of the Gentlemen's Bazaar Committee, and Mrs A. Goodman, for the Ladies’ Committee. The stallholders were:—Pound stall: Mrs. F. Weymouth and Mrs. W. Soper. Plain work : Miss Everett and Sunday school teachers. Sweets and handkerchiefs : Mrs. Goodman, Mrs. Bourchier, Mrs. Hare, and Miss A. Butcher. Miscellaneous stall : Mrs. Barrington, Mrs. Dawe, Mrs. Manico, and Miss C. Butcher. Refreshments : Mrs. Codd, Mrs. Langler, and Miss Cleave. Mixed pickles : Miss E. Brown, Bran-pie : Mr. R. Pearse and Miss L. Veale. Flowers and baskets : Mrs. H. Carew. Panel, Fancy stall : Mrs. Speare Cole and Miss Southey. Art stall : Miss May. China : Miss Ruth Williams and Miss Mary Williams. China and pottery : Mrs. Green and Mrs Prince. Farm produce : Mrs. Winzer and Mrs. Pearce. Tea tables : Miss Parker. Circus : Mr. Langler. There was a variety of other side-shows. A band was in attendance, and played some choice selections during the day. A programme of songs, etc., was also well rendered. The bazaar was continued on the following day. 

There is, however, no mention of William Henry Hawke, the owner of Millswood Hall. Did he boycott the opening ceremony? Had he even been invited?

Peter Hamley and Sons held an auction of freehold residences in Coronation Hall on 22nd April 1912 (Western Daily Mercury), and Mr John Maye held a ‘sale of excellent Household Furniture and Effects, at Coronation Hall, South Brent, at 2 p.m.’ on 18th September (Brixham Western Guardian). The same paper, on 12th December, noted that Coronation Hall had been granted a theatrical license. Western Times (31st January 1913) tells of ‘a good audience in the Coronation Hall… for a well-arranged concert in aid of the Church Institute.’ On 3rd October 1913, Exeter and Plymouth Gazette reported: 

POULTRY AND PIGEONS.

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SHOW AT SOUTH BRENT.

Beautiful weather favoured the show of poultry and pigeons in the Coronation Hall, South Brent. The President is Mr. Mildmay, M.P., and the Chairman of Committee, Mr. H. Manico. The Secretary is Mr. A. J. Harris, and the Treasurer, Mr. W. J. B. Cranch. There were several open classes… 

The only Coronation Hall event to make it to the press in 1914 was reported by the Western Times as ‘The Rolling Seasons… a first-class sacred concert… promoted by Mr. Arthur Manning, a well-known local musician’. As we saw, Arthur Manning had previously organised at least one New Year’s Eve pierrot concert in Millswood Hall. 

Ongoing events at Millswood

Despite the press’s celebration of South Brent’s new, church-owned Coronation Hall, Millswood Hall was still being hired for functions. Western Times, on 19th April 1912 (after Coronation’s Hall’s opening), reported: 

SOUTH BRENT 

‍    … In aid of the funds of the South Brent Races, a very successful whist drive was held in the Millswood Hall, South Brent, on Tuesday night, over a hundred attending. Mr. M. H. Heliers acted as Honorary Secretary, and Mr. J. W. Wakeham as referee. The catering was most satisfactorily carried out by Mrs. E. Tope. The prizes were won by :––Ladies : 1. Mrs. D. Hoare (Luscombe) ; 2. Miss A. Shinner (Belleigh). Gentlemen : 1. Mr. A. Winzer (Brent) ; 2. Mr. A. Huxham (Brent). 

Interestingly, the next paragraph of the column names William Henry Hawke – owner of Millswood Hall – as a member of South Brent Parish Council (despite the parish’s opening of Coronation Hall seeming to have been contrary to his interest): 

‍    South Brent Parish Council met on Monday night. There were present Messrs. J. W. Wakeham, W. Pearse, W. H. Hawke, J. Veale, J. White, R. Hosking, Rev. H. Speare Cole… 

Western Times, on 10th December 1915, reported another whist drive in Millswood Hall, this time in conjunction with a Red Cross jumble sale. However, the onset of World War One, on 28th July 1914, had a far deeper impact on the halls of South Brent than inspiring jumble sale fundraisers for the Red Cross. 

German prisoners in Coronation Hall

With wartime food supplies scarce, the government backed regional ‘War Agricultural Executive Committees’ ensured maximum production at local levels. Western Times reported on 16th November 1917: 

‍    South Brent is to be made a centre for National War Agricultural work. The old Town Hall has been given by the Vicar free of rent for three years, to be fitted up as offices. Several farm horses are to be sent to Brent for ploughing, and will be located at Mr. Gregor’s training stables. 

On 13th June 1918, Brixham Western Guardian reported: 

‍    South Brent Coronation Hall has been taken over by the military authorities as a German Prisoners of War Depot. Internal alterations are already in hand. A batch of prisoners is expected in time for the hay harvest. 

A letter published in Exeter and Plymouth Gazette, on 28th June 1918, explains the need for, and organisation of, German prisoners of war to work the land: 

‍   It is pleasing to learn that farmers in the West are finding the services of German prisoners of great assistance in these trying times. Between 300 and 350 prisoners have now arrived in various parts of Devon, while it is expected another batch of 40 will reach Hatherleigh this week-end. Applications have been received from other districts, including those for two gangs in the vicinity of Tavistock. I understand that the places where the gangs have arrived include Newton Abbot, Southmolton, Ashbury, Tiverton, Honiton, Sidbury, Kingsbridge, South Brent, and Eggesford. In some of these places the men have been at work for a considerable period, and they are described as willing and good workers. Up to the present the demand exceeds the supply, but every effort is being made by Mr. Patterson, of the Labour Department of the Food Production Department, at Exeter, and those associated with him, to do what they can to satisfy the outstanding applications. Many farmers will, doubtless, find the system of migratory gangs a good one. Those gangs consist of ten prisoners, with two guards. I understand they will be housed in central positions, and farmers in the vicinity will be able to avail themselves of their daily help during the hay and corn harvest. 

On 26th July 1918, Western Times reported: 

SOUTH BRENT

South Brent War Savings Association report for the first year a total savings of £2,308… The German prisoners of war interned at the Coronation Hall, South Brent, are now fully employed on farms and at other work in the district, and give good satisfaction… 

The pressure on farmers was high. Farmers who failed to produce enough food were summoned to court. Western Times, on 23rd January 1919, describes one of these cases:

NEGLECTED CROPS

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Farmers Fined at Moreton for Wasting Foodstuffs

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‍    At Mortonhampstead on Tuesday, Charles Arthur Simmons, of Parlacombe Farm, Bickington, late of Peck Farm, Lustleigh, was summoned for wasting foodstuffs… Defendant pleaded that he was unable to get labour, although he applied to South Brent, the Commandant of the German prisoners’ camp, and the Exeter Labour Bureau. It was his opinion that the War Agricultural Committee were responsible for the loss since they did not come to his aid… 

1920s

Act Four: Brent’s halls after WW1

A Western Morning News article, published on 26th November 1921, says South Brent had two (not three) public halls. The original town hall (now home to Coulton Antique Clocks) was evidently no longer in use. According to the article, Coronation Hall’s war-use had left it in debt, and Millswood Hall was now the preferred venue (with the ubiquitous Arthur Manning championing it): 

BRENT’S PUBLIC HALLS

‍    South Brent is fortunate in having two large rooms for public meetings and entertainments, the Millswood Hall and the Church Hall. The latter, built by the Church people about 10 years ago, now has a debt to local subscribers of nearly £400. It was remunerative up to the outbreak of the war. Then for a couple of years it was used for prisoners of war. Subsequently its use was restricted, one result being that there is little revenue, and public functions are mainly held at Millswood Hall. The owners of the latter have now made great improvements. The height of the spacious room has been increased, a gallery erected at the back, an improved entrance and an additional exit being made and fitted with electric light. A first class ballroom has thus been made. 

‍    Reopening took place on Wednesday evening, when a concert was arranged by Mr. Arthur Manning. The Rev. T. Parry contributed a a couple of songs : Miss Marion Kempton, of Cardiff, paid a special visit, appreciation of her several songs being very marked. Others who took part were Messrs. F. W. Doddreidge, J. Tapley, Theo. Preston, V. Turner, H. Ashford, and others. The Rev. H. C. Baker proposed a vote of thanks to the performers. A dance followed. 

Brixham Western Guardian, on 30th September 1920, describes the demise of the first town hall’s function as a public venue: 

SALE OF GLEBE AT SOUTH BRENT

‍    The Glebe of South Brent, including freehold building and grazing land, small holdings and cottages was sold at auction at the Anchor Hotel, on Wednesday. Several ladies residing in the district were among the company. Mr. John Maye was the auctioneer and Messrs. Michelmore (Exeter) the solicitors to the vendors (The Vicar of Brent and Ecclesiastical Commissioners)… The old Town Hall was withdrawn, the Vicar deciding that the building would be useful for parochial purposes… 

Millswood Hall had been the venue-of-choice for a post-war celebration, according to Western Times, on 26th September 1919: 

SOUTH BRENT

‍    In connection with the South Brent Peace Celebrations’ Fund a sum was set aside for entertaining men of the parish who took part in the war, and at the Millswood Hall on Saturday evening about 150 ex-Service men and representatives of the various public bodies sat down to a dinner under the presidency of Mr. J. R. T. Kingwell, J.P., C.C., lord of the manor. Among those present were Colonel F. B. Mildmay, M.P., and Rev. H. Speare-Cole, M.A. (vicar), Mr. R. H. Gill proposed “His Majesty’s Forces,” and said out of a population of about 1,600, 25 from South Brent had paid the supreme sacrifice, and a large number had won distinctions and been mentioned in the despatches. Col. Mildmay, M.P., responded. The remainder of the evening was spent in harmony, a smoking concert being organised by Mr. Arthur Manning. 

The following wanted advert was posted in The Era, on 19th January 1921: 

Wanted: good Dramatic and Variety Pianist: transpose, read at sight. &c. ; open at once. Wire, MILLER, Millswood Hall, Brent, Devon. 

Things were looking good for Millswood Hall’s future when, on 15th November that same year, Western Morning News reported: 

WEST OF ENGLAND NEWS

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…Millswood Hall, South Brent, is undergoing extensive alterations. A gallery at the back will accommodate an additional hundred people, and a new entrance and exit are also to be provided. 

Millswood Hall as an Auction venue

Subsequent newspaper mentions of Millswood Hall name it as an auction venue for Mr John Maye (whose business went on to co-found the modern-day Luscombe and Maye estate agent chain). For example, Western Morning News, 6th December 1924: 

Millswood Hall, South Brent.

MR. JOHN MAYE has received instructions from Mrs. C. M. Goodman and Mrs. Winter to SELL by AUCTION, at the above, on WEDNESDAY Next, December 10th, 1924, at Two p.m., HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE and Effects (removed to the above for convenience of sale), including :––Drawing-room suite, dining chairs, sofa, dining table, mahogany and oak occasional tables and chairs, gilt pier glass, Turkey and other carpets, bedroom appointments, gent’s bicycle, garden plants, ladder, wire netting, incubator, flooring boards and oak planks, tools, and other effects as described on sale posters to be obtained of the auctioneer of South Brent. 

1930s

Following a multitude of earlier notices, according to Western Morning News, on 13th June 1931: 

SALE NEXT WEDNESDAY.

‍    MILLSWOOD HALL, SOUTH BRENT. 

‍    JOHN MAYE has received instructions from Miss B. F. Hosking to SELL by AUCTION, at the above, on Wednesday next, June 17th, 1931, at Two p.m., SUPERIOR AND WELL-MADE HOUSEHOLD FURNISHINGS removed from No. 3, Fore-street, South Brent, for convenience of Sale… 

Coronation Hall in the 1930s

In the meantime, Coronation Hall, now referred to as Church Hall, was hosting a variety of events. One such was reported in Western Morning News, on 31st December 1933: 

‍    Organised by Mr. E. W. Hull, an entertainment was given in the Church Hall, South Brent, on Wednesday night, by a company of boys from the Kitto Institute, Plymouth. There was a good attendance, and an enjoyable evening was spent.

Another event organised by A. Manning was reported four-years later (Western Morning News, 2nd December 1937): 

“ THE STRANGER ”

Clever Juvenile Players At South Brent Schumann’s musical play “ The Stranger ” was well rendered at the Church Hall, South Brent, last night, by a juvenile class, under the direction of Mr. A. Manning… 

1940s

Millswood’s final years

According to local historian, Greg Wall, in his 1983 South Brent and its People Remembered, Millswood Mills – whose first floor had previously been the hall – was ‘taken over as an engineering factory by Messrs. E. H. Heath of Plymouth. During the 1939 to 1945 World War it was used to make aeroplane parts.’ 

After the war, the Heaths seem to have switched their business to selling secondhand lorries. Western Morning News published these small ads in October 1947: 

MORRIS COMMERCIAL COVERED LORRY. 1942 Model; well maintained, in exclt. condn.–– Price and partics. from Messrs. W. G. Heath and company, Millswood Works, S. Brent. Tel. S. Brent 2167. 

… MORRIS COMMERCIAL 31/2-Ton Covered LORRY, 1942 model. Well maintained,in exclt. condn.–– Price and partics. from Messrs. W. G. Heath and company, Millswood Works, S. Brent. 

The fiery end of Millswood

Western Morning News provides a detailed description of the fire that destroyed Millswood Mills on 8th February, 1948: 

Fire Destroys Factory At South Brent

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NEARBY COTTAGES EVACUATED 

‍    As roaring flames destroyed an old flour mill at South Brent in the early hours of this morning the occupants of nearby cottages were raised from their sleep and moved to safety. N.F.S. [National Fire Service] men from Plymouth fought the blaze with three appliances as furniture was removed from the cottages in case they, too, were engulfed in flames. The call was received at Greenbank at 11.40 p.m., and the fire units, under Company Officer Hill, covered the 15 miles to South Brent in record time. They could see the blaze before they reached the fire, which was lighting up the whole of the Valley. A leat runs down beside the building, and there was no shortage of water, but the flames had gained a firm hold, and the N.F.S. had little chance to save the building. 

EMPLOYED LOCAL MEN.

South Brent is in the 18 Fire Force Area, controlled from Torquay, and Commander F. Winteringham took command of operations. Units from Buckfastleigh and Totnes relieved the Plymouth men at about 2.30 a.m. 

‍    The mill was partly occupied as a dwelling house, but there were no reports of casualties. It was a three-storey building, about 150 feet long and 75 feet wide, and the factory was busy all through the war on Government work. About forty to fifty of South Brent men have been employed there since by Messrs. Heath, of Plymouth. 

DISCOVERED BY MANAGER.

The manager, Mr. Tornberg, who lives on the premises, discovered the fire at about 11.30, but with high wind driving the fire there was little hope of saving the building. He and his wife got out safely from their rooms. 

‍    Three other families live in adjoining cottages, and they anxiously removed their furniture. But the strong north-easterly wind was driving the flames away from their homes, and in the early hours when the N.F.S. had the blaze under control they were moving their household goods back indoors. 

‍    Millswood was one of the main sources of employment in South Brent. 

‍    P.S R. J. Badge, of South Brent, was early on the scene, and he was soon joined by Inspr. Hammond from Totnes. 

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Conclusion

As local readers will know, Coronation Hall is still actively used by the community. A large sign beside the door proclaims ‘South Brent Village Hall. Founded 1911’ (the year its building was completed, although its official opening took place in 1912). The story behind Coronation Hall’s existence is less well-known. While some Brentonians (as South Brent residents are known) are aware that Coulton Antique Clocks was once the village hall, Millswood Hall has been all but forgotten. Millswood rose like a phoenix from the ashes of the vicar-led drive to finance a larger hall at the start of the twentieth century. The man behind it, William Henry Hawke, owner of Millswood Mills, and one of the new hall project’s committee members, converted the first-floor of his mill into a grand public hall at his own cost. The press acclaimed it, and it flourished in its role of South Brent’s main public hall. But, by the end of the the first decade of the twentieth century, the vicar reconvened his drive to finance a new, church-owned hall, and William Henry Hawke wasn’t on the new committee. Coronation Hall was duly built, and officially opened in February 1912. Following the outbreak of World War One, the vicar donated use of the village’s first, smaller hall, for three years, to use as military offices. In 1918, Coronation hall was requisitioned to house German prisoners of war, who were sent to work on local farms. This gave Millswood Hall a brief, new lease of life as the only available public hall in South Brent, but, by the early 1920s, it fell into use as an auction venue only, and Coronation Hall resumed its place as South Brent’s primary entertainment venue. 

Written and researched by Lily Style, April 2022. 

With thanks to Jonathan Nicholson for proofreading; Greg Wall for granting permission to use photos from his books; and Phil & Sue Dean for locating information about Millswood Hall and finding the aerial photograph.