RE-OPENING OF ST. OSWALD'S CHURCH - BLANKNEYRe-opened on 4th August 1880 following restoration
Following the restoration of St Oswald's church, Blankney a spacious marquee was erected in Blankney Park where ladies and gentlemen were entertained by Henry and and Florence Chaplin to a luncheon. (Catering was by the Saracens Head, Lincoln). The luncheon followed a service which commenced at eleven o'clock.
During the afternoon the Royal North Lincoln Militia band played outside the luncheon tent.
Toasts were made during the luncheon by Viscount Folkestone to the Queen, the Squire and Bishop and clergy of Lincoln. The Bishop responded. Mr Chambers toasted Rev. Brook Bridges and Mrs Bridges, past Rector, of Blankney for twenty-five years. Sir Brook Bridges replied. Followed by a speech by Henry Chaplin in which he toasted the new Rector, Mr. Stephens. Rev. J. O. Stephens replied. Stephens referred to his new home being built (the vicarage in Blankney today).
The band of the Royal North Lincoln Militia was afterwards honoured by being asked by Henry and Florence Chaplin to play immediately in front of the Hall during dinner.At 6.30 p. m. Evensong was held in the church, sermon by Rev. H. G. de Bunsen.
The following day 5th August saw the first celebration of the Church Festival in the newly restored church (the 5th being St. Oswald's day). Following a service in the church Henry Chaplin treated the cottagers and labourers of the village to a substantial dinner in the marquee in the park. The band of the Royal North Lincoln Militia playing selections of music near at hand. Mr. Chaplin during the feast told those present the whole of the grounds would be thrown open to them and he hoped they would have a good dance until they were tired.
The company then adjourned to the grounds at 4 p.m. and a country dance was held on the lawns in front of the Hall. The dance ended at 6 p.m. At that hour Divine service was again held in the church. The service given by a previous Rector Rev. O. C. Selby-Lowndes. Following the service the company repaired to the lawns and dancing continued until 10 p.m. Mr. Chaplin then called on the band to play the National Anthem and Lady Folkestone sang a verse and few would ever forget the thrilling effect of her Ladyship's voice as it rose upon the still air that reigned around. The large assemble joined most heartily in chorus and the happy proceedings were brought to a close.
