Wakefield

WAKEFIELD

George Philip Wakefield (1838-1911)

Born in 1838 to George Wakefield and Ann Dean in Weston Turville.

In 1859 married Sarah Howlett and had sons George, William George and Harvey Charles daughters Emily Louisa, Eva Matilda, Flora Annie, Theresa Letita, Susan Alice and Marian Ethel.

William George Wakefield (1869-?)

The last wheelwright as such was William Wakefield whose yard was located down the lane opposite Pennants Cottage in Church Lane - later occupied by Kempster's smithy.[2]

Harvey Charles Wakefield (1879–1951) – A Pillar of Weston Turville[1]

Born in 1879 to George Philip Wakefield and Sara Howlett in Weston Turville, Harvey Charles Wakefield was a remarkable figure whose contributions left a lasting mark on the community.

In 1909, Harvey married Rosa Parrott from Aylesbury, and together they made their home at "The Beeches." A skilled builder and timber merchant by trade, he played an instrumental role in shaping the village's infrastructure and spirit.

Harvey's dedication to the Weston Turville Parish Church was unwavering. He served as the Rector's Warden from 1935 until his passing in 1951, was a lifelong choir member, and a member of the Oxford Diocesan Conference. The Church Room Fund fund was organised by Harvey via events such as whist drives and eventually built by him.[3] His other efforts included overseeing the construction of the Alexandra Cottages and supporting the church's major restoration in 1961–63, thanks to a generous bequest he left behind.

He also devoted himself to education and local governance. Harvey chaired the Parish Council and the Weston Turville Church of England School, where he served as Correspondent and Foundation Manager. Beyond these roles, he was Captain and Chairman of the cricket club, nurturing both sport and community spirit.

Harvey's legacy endures through two charities established in his name:

• The Harvey Charles Wakefield Charity for Old Age Pensioners

• The Charles Wakefield Trust

These initiatives continue to reflect his commitment to caring for others and enhancing the community.

Harvey Charles Wakefield passed away on 21 June 1951, leaving an estate valued at £35,679 9s. 1d. His contributions to Weston Turville remain an integral part of its history.

References

1. ^ Bucks Herald  29 Jun 1951

2. ^ "Weston Turville - A History" by Hamish Eaton

3. ^ Bucks Herald  17 Feb 1939