Thrift Club

Before the days of social security etc Steventon, loke most villages, had several thrift and savings clubs to help the poor.

The Steventon Unanimous Friendly Society was formed in 1821 and members – more than 100 by 1877 - would pay in a few pence every week and could receive up to eight shillings per week if they were ill. Before joining they were examined by a doctor and then paid an entry fee to join – this fee was often paid by the vicar. By 1907 the Steventon Club members were being urged to transfer their memberships to the better funded Berkshire Friendly Society.

Savings clubs were also popular in December 1889 38 tons of coal and 99 yards of flannel were distributed to members of the Coal & Clothing Club – helped by £1 donations from village charities and Mrs Tyrrell.

Pig Club

There was also a Pig Club with the only mention we can find being in 1907 when quarterly meetings were held at the North Star