Peasenhall and its neighbour, Sibton, are celebrating the Smyth
family and their seed drill manufacturing business which operated
in Peasenhall from 1800 -1967. The story highlights agricultural
innovation of international importance, as well as Suffolk’s and
East Anglia’s contribution to the Agricultural Revolution. James
Josiah Smyth, the grandson of the founder, died in1908.
Celebrations will take place on 26, 27, 28 and 29 June. On
26, 27, 28 June (10.00 a.m. - 4.30 p.m.) there will be an
exhibition in Peasenhall Village Hall, built in 1888 by
James Josiah, and will include photographs, artefacts and archive
material, as well as examples of the seed drill and other
agricultural implements. The programme will also involve local
schools.
A celebration will also be held on Saturday, 28 June, (1-6
p.m.) in the grounds of The Hall, Rendham Road, Peasenhall,
built in 1846 for James Smyth Jr. (son of the founder). The event
will have something for all the family, including music,
face-painting, Nail Art, storytelling, theatre, stalls,raffle,
games, refreshments.
On Sunday, 29 June, (10.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m.) White
House Farm, Sibton will show its range of Smyth drills, as well as
other historic farm equipment, some of it pre-19th
century. There will be something for all the family – pony rides, a
‘gypsy encampment’, refreshments and more.
Colin Hann, Chairman of, and on behalf of, the Smyth Celebration
Committee, said: ‘This is a great opportunity to celebrate our
heritage and history in Suffolk and make our past come alive. It
brings local people and the wider community together in a fun
celebration of the contributions made by the Smyth family to our
region, reflecting the rich entrepreneurial and agricultural
history of Suffolk and East Anglia.’
The Celebration Committee is grateful to Adnams,
Lloyds TSB Agriculture, Peasenhall and Sibton
Parish Councils, and to Smith and Williamson
and others for their support.
There will be photo and filming opportunities. For arrangements,
contact Stephanie Liston 07713 786666 or Ann Daniels
01728 660159