Public Houses: The Soul of Community Life

In small communities like Rillington, public houses have long been the heartbeat of social interaction, just as they continue to be today. These establishments not only quench thirst but serve as gathering places, bringing communities closer. They were also more than just places to enjoy a drink; they were hubs of connection, where stories were swapped, deals were struck, and friendships blossomed.

The taverns and public houses that sprung up in the nineteenth century were instrumental in accommodating a growing population, providing solace and kinship amid daily life.

Among them stood coaching inns like the historic Coach and Horses, which played a pivotal role in the village’s narrative. However, with the rise of alcohol-related concerns, the Temperance movement began its crusade for moderation, ushering in new chapters in the story of these cherished establishments.

Social Reform: The Temperance Movement in Rillington and Beyond

The Temperance movement in England was a social crusade that fought against the recreational consumption of alcohol. This movement, known for advocating total abstinence, eventually found its way to small communities like Rillington.

In the 19th century, the spectre of excessive alcohol consumption and its consequences loomed large over society’s wellbeing. It was seen as a catalyst for a range of social issues, from poverty and neglect to moral decline and economic stagnation. As temperance societies began to emerge in the 1830s, they targeted various aspects of drinking, each dedicated to curbing this prevalent habit.

For instance, the creation of the Band of Hope in 1847was a pivotal step in persuading children to abstain from alcohol. While primarily focused on the working class, temperance also found steadfast support from certain religious groups, particularly the Nonconformist Churches. Interestingly, the roots of the Temperance Society trace back to Bradford, West Yorkshire, where figures like Joseph Rowntree and his father vehemently opposed alcohol consumption, dubbing it ‘the drink misery’.

Although the temperance movement achieved local success in parts of Britain, it ultimately fell short of enforcing national prohibition and waned in influence after the Second World War.