In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, there was a growing concern that traditional English songs, music and dances might disappear as industrialisation and social change transformed rural life. As a result, a number of enthusiasts travelled the countryside, carefully writing down songs sung by farm workers, labourers and travellers.
One of these collectors was Miss Dorothy (“Don”) Marshall, who lived at Pillmead House from 1913 until her death in 1916.
The Heritage Bank was contacted by Dr Lizzie Bennett, who has been researching Dorothy’s life and wondered whether we held any photographs or memories of her. Until now, the only local information we had related to Dorothy’s wartime efforts: collecting books and magazines for soldiers at home and at the Front, and raising funds for sick and wounded servicemen.
We have since learnt about her work as a folk song collector. Dorothy scoured the area in search of singers and songs, accompanied by her coachman, Charles Moore. Charles and his family lived in the High Street, and a photograph shows his daughter Violet — known as “Trix” — standing in their doorway.
Together, Dorothy and Charles helped preserve everyday voices and local musical traditions that might otherwise have been lost, contributing to what later became known as the English folk revival.
