| Description | In the late 1880s, Harrison Barrow (1868 - 1953), together with his brothers, Louis (1865 - 1948) and Walter (1867-1954), built a steam boat, which they named 'Seagull' and used for several boat trips with their Quaker friends. They later made a smaller houseboat named 'Ptarmigan' so that their female friends could join them. At some point, ownership of the boats passed from the Barrows to various members of the adult schools and a system of membership was introduced whereby those who wanted to use the boats had to pay an annual membership subscription.
At the start of the 20th century, the boats were moored on the River Avon at Nafford and the women stayed on 'Ptarmigan' while the men camped on the riverbank. The 'Seagull' was used to bring supplies to the camp or for excursions as the 'Ptarmigan' could only be moved by being towed. By 1919, the 'Ptarmigan' had fallen into disrepair, and the 'Seagull' was moved to another location on the River Avon, nearby. It was used by members of the adult schools from 1920 onwards, particularly by members of Gooch Street Adult School, who set up camp in nearby fields. The largest and most successful camp was in 1939. It was also the last camp to be held. |