Laura's Cottage - A bit of history
We have in our possession a few historical photographs of Whitethorn Farm. On this photograph you can see Laura's Cottage in the top right hand corner.
"Tea Feast at Cropton 1913 No 3." The Tea Feast was also known as the village fair. It was held at Whitethorn Farm, Cropton usually on the first Sunday in July. Back in 1913 the farm was owned by John Gill of Sutherland Lodge, Cropton. Mr Gill is also remembered for giving the Cropton village it's Reading Room (now known as the village hall).
The ladies provided the food for the feast and the men played a cricket match. There were children's sports at the event. Some of the events included a three-legged race, wheelbarrow and other races.
Fred Harland moved to Whitethorn Farm in the early 1920's. Following that the Wesleyan Sunday School had their annual picnic there.
The photograph below of the entrance to Whitethorn Farm probably dates back to the 1930's. We have provided a then and now contrast.