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Visited Canterbury on Sunday and found the only listed Vat - the Sun
Hotel - is still there, although half of it has been taken over by
Debenhams. The pub was founded in 1503 and part of the original building
is still there, although at that time it was known as The New Inn. It
now acts as a tearoom with hotel rooms above what was once the middle of
three bars.
Steve Wilson <steve.wilson@oisc.gov.uk>
UK - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 17:06:23 (GMT) Love it! Discovered
Froth Blowers by pure chance in May 2009. I am involved with a pub that
prides itself on real ale and breweriana and I just KNOW the owner is
going to love this and will probably put a link on his website
(http://www.maltshoveltavern.com) Keep up the good work.
Alan Farrell <afarrell@delapre.demon.co.uk>
UK - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 17:07:15 (GMT)
My grandfather was a member (he was a licensee at the time) and I
still have his cufflinks. I understand that when the order was given to
'shoot your cuffs' if you weren't wearing your AOFB links you would be
fined.
Lynne Whitehead <lynne@lynndav.plus.com>
UK - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 17:08:04 (GMT)
My Fairy Belle and I would like to be members.
Roger Brown <fofb@eleventowns.co.uk>
UK - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 17:08:54 (GMT)
Lets hope this site goes from strength to strength. Well done.
Chris FOFB <buddamanuk@yahoo.co.uk>
UK - Wednesday, October 14, 2009 at 17:09:48 (GMT)
I found a clay pipe in my garden with the F.O.F.B name. Thanks for the
information. Regards Eric.
Eric Golding <goldingeric@yahoo.co.uk>
UK - Wednesday, October 21, 2009 at 18:33:19 (GMT)
My late uncle, Richard Francis Hearn was a member of the AOFB and as a
young man nearly fifty years ago I was the proud possessor of his
membership book (which as I remember was passport sized and bound in
cream) and cuff links. Sadly these items have disappeared over the
years, which is a source of enormous regret to me, as I would have liked
nothing better than to 'shoot my cuffs' in our village pub and impress
the clientele with 'my' AOFB membership book, which of course bore the
same name.
Richard C.E. Hearn
UK - Tuesday, October 27, 2009 at 17:25:12 (GMT)
I was introduced to this organiseation by Roger and Yoland Brown. We
spent a couple of laughter full evenings around their kitchen table
enjoying the odd, non sequntial and just plain loony gags in the members
hand book. Great stuff not to let this disappear.
Pete (ghandy) Jackson <pastorius@supanet.com>
England - Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 20:32:32 (GMT)
i would love to and also a honour to join ds brotherhood
henry <blingx@yahoo.com>
nigeria - Friday, November 20, 2009 at 13:04:23 (GMT)
I am delighted to find this web site. I "googled" the AOFB hoping to
find some info as I prepared to hand over to my son the cufflinks which
I inherited from my father, John Farwell Anderson Davis. Dad had been
stationed as an aide to a U.S. Admiral at the coaling station in Cardiff
during WWI and had made a number of local UK friends. I believe he
revisited there on business in the 1920's and was invited to join at
that time by one of those comrades. He always took pride in his
membership and enjoyed showing off the cufflinks.
John Anderson Davis <andy@andydavis.com>
USA - Saturday, November 28, 2009 at 08:28:03 (GMT)
Greetings from the Shrivenham Vat.
Richard Hancock <photos@timelord.fsnet.co.uk>
United Kingdom - Monday, December 07, 2009 at 17:52:37 (GMT)
I must have been one in my past life. Amazing!!!!!!
Wayne Burtenshaw
Australia - Wednesday, December 09, 2009 at 16:18:53 (GMT)
As I am researching my family history I was pleased to come across
your site. My Father was a member, I have his membership book. When I
return home after the Christmas holiday I will contact you with the
details. Best Wishes, Colin.
Colin Martin <cs.martinl@talktalk.net>
UK - Monday, December 28, 2009 at 10:31:37 (GMT)
God Bless Bert
Steve Wa-Wa Walker
Australia - Sunday, January 03, 2010 at 09:52:30 (GMT)
I have a membership book with membership No 426256. How can I find out
who this book belonged to?
Barbara Webb <barbara.webb@live.co.uk>
Essex - Friday, January 08, 2010 at 19:21:40 (GMT)
I was searching my father's name on the internet - Harold Stewart
Turner - and I think he might have been the Grand Armourer of A.O.F.B.
Or it might have been my grandfather but, given my father's slightly
wild youth, it is more likely to be him. My grandfather was one of the
founders of Turner & Simpson which was subsequently sold to the
Birmingham Medal Company following my father's death in 1978. I was
wondering if you had any more information.
Amanda Earnshaw <amanda.earnshaw@btinternet.com>
UK - Tuesday, March 09, 2010 at 18:47:36 (GMT)
I was intrigued to find, in my grandmother's belongings when she died,
a membership book, in mint condition for the Ancient Order of Froth
Blowers, issued in 1926. I was wondering if it has any value?
Olivia Barham <livvi@aol.com>
United States - Thursday, June 24, 2010 at 17:12:40 (GMT)
I have just been going through some very old sheet music found stored
in my mothers house, who has recently passed away at 90 years old. In
amongst these I have found 'The official song of the acient order of
froth blowers' copyright Irving King Music Co.MCMXXVI The More We Are
Together price 6d . So therefore just had to google it, and found you
guys. I would be happy to scan this and send copy if you are interested.
Or if you are still doing charitable works I would be happy to send the
origonal to raffle/auction etc. Best regards from an ale lover Ian
Ian Peters <sretep@tiscali.co.uk>
England - Sunday, July 25, 2010 at 18:23:16 (GMT)
Are there any Froth Blowers in Texas ? If so please contact me.
Gregory Horne <ghorne56566@peoplepc.com>
USA - Friday, July 30, 2010 at 06:41:28 (GMT)
The order purchased (we think) a local site for Scouts and Guides at
some time in the past. It's called Heartsease. Well done!
Jon <Jonbiddle@btinternet.com>
- Wednesday, September 15, 2010 at 17:53:12 (GMT)
I was going through some old papers today (28th Sept 2010)and came
across a small booklet that belonged to my my uncle William who died
about 20 years ago. It is an AOFB booklet in excellent condition that
belonged to him. No date is shown but in the inside cover it quotes his
full name William Edward James Hansford, address “Wyke Regis”, The
Broadway, Thorpe Bay (near Southend on Sea Essex) Membership Card
No:472466 shown at the top of the inside front cover which forms a sort
of wallet. No date is shown, however at the top of page 14 there is a
statement of account “Paid to date Feb 24th 1927 to Sir Alfred Fripp
K.C.V.O., CB £20,000 and below a statement of membership “at 10th Nov
1926 was 70,000 now 200,000 etc. etc.” with a balance sheet dated Feb
1st.1927 and a balance in hand of £1998. On the inside rear cover there
is a “pasted page” with a note dated December 24th 1926 followed by
reference to “£10,000 has since been handed over Feb 24th. So I would
conclude the book was issued early in 1927. Pages 24 to 30 list in very
small print the “VATS” and their locations several of which are in the
area local to my uncle.
Mike Hansford <zen16001@zen.co.uk>
England - Tuesday, September 28, 2010 at 07:56:51 (GMT)
What an interesting order to be a member of,I own an original
membership card/booklet and a Fairy Belles wristlet, and thoroughly
enjoy perusing the pages and laugh constantly.What a pleasure it is to
both own & read.
Malcolm Welch <zed@rb33.co.uk>
UK - Tuesday, September 28, 2010 at 11:25:16 (GMT)
My father was a member of the Ancient Order and I often lunch at The
Swan in Fittleworth
Robert B McGuire <r.mcguire510@btinternet.com>
England - Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 13:12:56 (GMT)
I have a near perfect car mascot which - until I fitted to my 1929
Humber - appeared to be unused; it originally came to me on a turned
fruit wood base (for use at meetinds perhaps). My concern I guess is in
leaving it unattended I assume it has a value. Loved your web site and
will spend some time reading the history etc.
ray cattle <ray.cattle@gmail.com>
uk - Tuesday, October 26, 2010 at 15:25:06 (GMT)
Wonderful!
Ann Marshall <amarshall@uct.org>
U.S. - Thursday, November 11, 2010 at 20:45:03 (GMT)
My grandfather (Bill Southgate) was a member of the AOFB. Although I
did not get his cufflinks(that I admired as a child), I did manage to
aquire a set through a friend who bought them from a antique store in
the UK because his initials were A.O.! Would love to start a Vat over
here, shouldn't be to hard with all the ex pats! Cheers
Chris Upshon <c-upshon@shaw.ca>
Canada - Sunday, December 26, 2010 at 19:25:06 (GMT)
lubrication in moderation.
kenny adebayo <kod186@yahoo.com>
Nigeria - Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 23:16:43 (GMT)
lubrication in moderation.
kenny adebayo <kod186@yahoo.com>
Nigeria - Wednesday, February 02, 2011 at 23:16:33 (GMT)
Har arvet min svigerfars Krus og manchetknapper.A.O.F.B. Membership
Card No. 314691
Hanne Gøthche <ohp@besked.com>
Danmark - Tuesday, February 08, 2011 at 15:38:42 (GMT)
Many years ago when my father inlaw died I was asked what I would
like of his things. I just wanted the cuff links because he always
showed me the book and told the story. I also had the mug and book. Now
40 years later I still have the the book, mug and cuff links. I took it
with me to Denmark in 1970 and my grandchild Victor is having it having
it later. I was very suprised to find the F.O.F.B. on the internet.
Hanne Hyde <Hyde@sol.dk>
Denmark - Thursday, February 17, 2011 at 15:59:30 (GMT)
Hello to all you 'Vats' out there! I've found the AOFB cufflinks
belonging to my great-grandfather and this was the first I had heard of
your honourable organisation. Rather than see them sold, lost or worse,
would the society be interested in my donating them back to you? It
would be great if I could confirm my GGF's membership, his name was
Arthur Herbert Kellaway and I know for a fact that he drank (a lot!) at
The Red Lion Hotel, Hythe. Many thanks, and good supping!
Sue Miller <millerfamily.03@btinternet.com>
Kent - Sunday, February 20, 2011 at 16:57:54 (GMT)
My grandfather (Douglas Stevens) was a member of AOFB - my brother
has his membership booklet. The date on this is 1927. I was fascinated
as to what it was and found your site. I never knew him as he died when
he was only 35 and my father only remember him vaguely so this is a
great thing to find out he was part of. Thanks
Doreen Edwards <george.forthill8@blueyonder.co.uk>
Scotland - Sunday, February 27, 2011 at 16:16:41 (GMT)
very good night with the f o f b
terry channon <teltheplumber@msn.com>
england - Tuesday, March 01, 2011 at 22:58:33 (GMT)
I have my Grandmothers AOFB membership card (book),her membership
number was 445647 and I also have the Inaugural Dinner menu for the
Bombay AOFB dated Monday &th March 1927.
Nigel Ricardo <nigel_ricardo@yahoo.co.uk >
England - Wednesday, April 20, 2011 at 14:41:42 (GMT)
Introduced to the Frothblowers toady at the funeral of an old
friend's wife. Touching and emotional day, and the FBs pop up! Been a
member of CAMRA for many years so well into my real beer but just been
told by doc to cut down! If Dave Woodhead reads this please get in
touch! Joe
Joe Jackson <p-g-jackson@hotmail.com>
UK - Friday, July 15, 2011 at 12:53:34 (GMT)
Delighted to sign the book as the proud son of a Member.
Dr Bernard JUBY <bjuby@wanadoo.fr>
France - Thursday, July 21, 2011 at 16:55:56 (GMT)
My grandfather was, I understand, an original member of AOFB. I am
fortunate to have inherited his AOFB silver cufflinks, and I am glad to
see that its original aims are still respected!
Nick Hilditch <Hildn@yahoo.com>
England - Saturday, July 30, 2011 at 08:44:45 (GMT)
Just came across a "Fairy Belle" bracelet (similar to that pictured
elsewhere on this site) in a box of my mother's things that has sat in
my loft for 30 years. "Googled" the "AOFB" initials from it, out of
interest, and was surprised to find this site and all the interesting
and amusing facts. For reference: her maiden name was Grace Hamilton (b.
1906) and she lived initially in Woolwich but soon (teens) in
Shoeburyness near Southend-on-Sea, Essex. It is a surprising association
as she supposedly had signed 'the pledge' i.e. teetotal. Sorry I cannot
add more; she never mentioned it and there are no other items to share.
Graham Smith
- Saturday, August 06, 2011 at 17:43:11 (GMT)
Just read berts
stuart Ramsbottom <stuart36@ntlworld.com>
England - Sunday, August 07, 2011 at 18:26:07 (GMT)
Congratulations Ian for reaching 18000 hits on this site
Chris Kilmister
- Sunday, August 07, 2011 at 20:46:44 (GMT)
Hail ye ole Froth Blowers. My first visit here since being initiated
in the Singapore Vat. David, how are you doing? We need more Froth
Blowers in Texas. Good drinking Mates
Greg White <bruewhite@gmail.com>
United States - Thursday, September 29, 2011 at 02:57:07 (GMT)
Thoroughly enjoyed the annual meeting of the Frothblowers at my pub
The Red Lion in Brightwell cum Sotwell on Saturday. What a fantastic
organisation and long may it last.
Fairy Belle Robson <sue@redlion.biz>
United Kingdom - Monday, October 10, 2011 at 10:28:27 (GMT)
Having found a bracelet with AOFB which I assume belonged to either
my mother or grandmother I was most interested to find out what AOFB
stood for and what a surprise I got - and now more research and maybe
become a F.O.F.B
Elizabeth Roberts
England - Sunday, October 30, 2011 at 13:58:41 (GMT)
The Publican at The Well Digger in Petworth is known as Tesicle Ted
(three or one not sure,). He is the oldest serving Landlord in West
Sussex and woe betide the Yuppie, Vegetarian or uninvited enviromental
health officer on the day of The Hunt. Ted has sat on the bar stool and
vetted would be customers for a while, more particularly as Man and Boy
since the 1950's. Not everyone passes muster and is advised about the
location of the door behind them and the dog in front. His barmaids keep
him sat on his stool, at christmas he has chanced his arm by dangling
Mistletoe before them, but a new bucksome wench walking chancing her
luck under the beries succesfull defended herself:
O'Hooligan <jtoh@talk21.com>
UK - Thursday, November 03, 2011 at 16:30:01 (GMT)
See Above. Teds barmaid said as he dangled mistletoe above her head,
'No ted, not even under anaestheitic!'
O'Hooligan <jtoh@tal21.com>
Boozeshire - Thursday, November 03, 2011 at 16:35:05 (GMT)
Hello, your activities and those of the AOFB have come to the notice
of another peculiar group - stamp collectors!!! We have a member here
who has a fund-raising stamp from the AOFB and wonder if you might have
any further information on this. If you follow the link below, I promise
it will take you to nothing more or less subversive than the largest
stamp collectors' forum in the world:
http://www.stampboards.com/viewtopic.php?f=23&t=32183 Regards, Gavin
(volunteer moderator for Stampboards.com)
Gavin H <gavin.harrison1@btopenworld.com>
England - Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 15:17:16 (GMT)
Great site!
glen stephens <glen@glenstephens.com>
Australia - Sunday, November 13, 2011 at 10:56:44 (GMT)
I have just been made aware of the A.O.F.B through an article I was
reading on Herne Hill. I was sorely dissapointed to discover that it
folded in 1931 as it is probably the only order that I would have been
proud to be a member. Are the F.O.F.B. active in any way i.e. carrying
on charitable work/get togethers in the tradition of the A.O.F.B.? I
shall enjoy reading through the content of your website and well do for
keeping alive the memory of this once noble and fun group of people.
Mark Ellis <markellis82@hotmail.co.uk>
England - Friday, November 18, 2011 at 09:38:18 (GMT)
Very interesting. I learned of this site from Stampboards.com. Keep
up the good work!
Drew Thompson <drewt89@hotmail.com>
Canada - Sunday, November 20, 2011 at 11:31:21 (GMT)
The Parrs Head. My Grand Father was first a tenant at the Parr's
Head in 1922 and later when he died in 1929, it was taken over by my
Grand Mother and when she died, by my Father John Carnaby until he
retired in April 1971. They were members of AOFB at the Parr's Head in
Camden Town London. I was born there along with my Sister Sheila and my
cousins Terry and Peter Richmond. The pub was built in 1861 and in
November 2011 after 150 years of being a pub, it is now to be converted
into flats....an end of an era. John Carnaby
John Carnaby <carnaby.jj@tiscali.co.uk>
england - Saturday, November 26, 2011 at 11:16:27 (GMT)
I found out about A.O.F.B whilst browsing on the internet for some
cufflinks as a present for my husband. I hope to purchase some A.O.F.B
cufflinks and plan to print out the booklet to go with them. I am sure
he and his friends would consider setting up a VAT. What a great
society!
Caroline Liversidge <carolineliversidge@gmail.com>
England - Monday, December 05, 2011 at 12:13:48 (GMT)
I bought a lovely old tankard as a trophy for an annual (and
obvioulsy very serious) golf competition between me and my friend Willie
(Liam) Maree. This was obtained from an artifacts shop in the seaside
village or Hermanus (South Africa) which is better known for its whales
and good wines. This is seemingly an EPNS half-pint tankard that was
presented by the Grand Typhoon Stewart Turner to the winner of a golf
tournament at the Foreland Golf Club in Kent, on 5 November 1927. If
interested I will send a photograph. Regards from a windy Somerset West,
South Africa. Manie de Klerk
Manie de Klerk <mdeklerk@mweb.co.za>
South Africa - Wednesday, January 04, 2012 at 06:24:56 (GMT)
Hello, I'm a beer judge here in the states. While at a historic car
show a couple of years ago, I found an AOFB radiator cap on a beautiful
old car and the woman who owned it told me of the Froth Blowers. I went
online and obtained a membership for my fiance and since then we've
watched to see AOFB items at antique shops and shows. However, the only
items we've been able to obtain have been on ebay. We are the proud
owners of cufflinks, playing cards and a subject-related poster. I'm
grateful to see a growing and enthusiastic interest in the AOFB! Most of
the interest, of course comes from England, but I'm hoping that our own
interest here will provide more fans for you in the future. Cheers!
Dawn Funck <dmf_ky@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, January 19, 2012 at 14:02:17 (GMT)
Hello, I'm a beer judge here in the states. While at a historic car
show a couple of years ago, I found an AOFB radiator cap on a beautiful
old car and the woman who owned it told me of the Froth Blowers. I went
online and obtained a membership for my fiance and since then we've
watched to see AOFB items at antique shops and shows. However, the only
items we've been able to obtain have been on ebay. We are the proud
owners of cufflinks, playing cards and a subject-related poster. I'm
hoping to obtain something from the Blue Fairies but these items are
very rare to find. All in all, I'm grateful to see a growing and
enthusiastic interest in the AOFB! Most of the interest, of course comes
from England, but I'm hoping that our own interest here will provide
more fans for you in the future. Cheers!
Dawn Funck <dmf_ky@yahoo.com>
USA - Thursday, January 19, 2012 at 14:04:13 (GMT)
Hi, I have a pair of AOFB golf cufflinks - one side is the usual (AO
and FB) and the other has a stylised golfer, also in blue enamel on
silver but an oval link. Is there a record of an AOFB golf society?
Enjoyed reading the site and will visit again.
Henry Carruthers <henry1911c@gmail.com>
UK - Saturday, January 28, 2012 at 22:32:51 (GMT)
Last week I gave a talk to a local group about the history of our
town. At the conclusion the lady chairperson gave me a half pint glass
which had originated at the Crown P.H Erith. (Destroyed by enemy action
in 1940) I noticed the initials F.O.A.B imprinted on the glass.It meant
nothing to me. Telephoned someone I knew who would. Jim Packer auther of
books on local pubs.He explained and as a result found your web-site.
Thank you Jim
Ken Chamberlain <ken.chamberlain@sky.com>
Kent - Tuesday, April 03, 2012 at 06:56:20 (GMT)
Very interested
Eric Lewthwaite <eric.lewthwaite@hotmail.com>
Cumbria - Wednesday, April 11, 2012 at 19:02:30 (GMT)
I have just been talking to my wife regarding the A.O.F.B. and
saying that I have an original booklet and was amazed that she found
your web site. Keep up the good work.
Peter White <mrpeterwhitebtinternet.com>
England - Thursday, May 10, 2012 at 19:53:45 (GMT)
I have a kerchief of the O.A.F.B.Is anybody interested in buying it?
I can supply an image,Its in perfect condition.
Frank Peate <frank.peate@hotmail..com>
England - Saturday, June 09, 2012 at 13:40:45 (GMT)
Sidney Anne Temple,UK, Great-Niece of Bert Temple, the founder of
AOFB. I have just found your wonderful website, its wonderful!
Sidney Anne Temple
UK - Friday, August 24, 2012 at 09:58:52 (GMT)
Looking forward to my first meeting.
Ben Oakes <oakesbenjamin@hotmail.com>
UK - Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 13:17:42 (GMT)
I have a mans handkerchief with various illustrations - it was my
fathers - I am 71 - It says ale fellow well met, and the verse - the
more we are together etc.
margaret whittaker <magwhittaker@hotmail.co.uk>
w. yorks - Thursday, November 01, 2012 at 10:11:17 (GMT)
More effort must be made to resurrect this superb organisation. Are
there any froth blowers in west yorkshire.
Mark Edward Armitage <mearmitage@hotmail.co.uk>
England - Sunday, November 04, 2012 at 19:46:00 (GMT)
Just held the Annual Meeting of the Singapore Vat at Brewerkz,
Riverside Point, and collected $310 (Sing) for charity. I thought, as
Chairman of the Friends of the Froth Blowers, I would like to record
this fact on the Visitors Book to show that we (that is the Webmaster,
myself and others) are doing what we can to keep the Froth Blowers' name
alive. Buy our book,
Dave Woodhead <finwood40@btinternet.com>
UK - Saturday, November 17, 2012 at 15:34:45 (GMT)
Greetings from Illinois. I have brought together as many Yank Froth
Blowers as can be found on as many occassions as possible. Best wishes
to you. The more we are together.....Stefan
Stefan Kristen <pagan59@hotmail.com>
USA - Thursday, January 31, 2013 at 18:11:44 (GMT)
Hello I am a member of the Shrivenham VAT. I have really enjoyed the
fun and frolics and comradreship of the group and when I return to my
hometown in Essex I am definately contemplating setting one up for my
home town
Matthew Perryman <matthewjperryman@yahoo.co.uk>
UK - Friday, February 22, 2013 at 15:22:59 (GMT)
Good Afternoon, Tried to email directly but for some reason my
laptop is having none of it.! I have a handkerchief as illustrated in
your merchandise section and was wondering if you could tell me a little
bit more about it. It's value etc. I can send a pic if required. It
isn't prisitine as is quite orange coloured with some foxing in paced.
However it doesn'thave any holes or tears as far as I can see. The only
problem being the discolouration. It is either very soft cotton or
silk.. a bit hard to tell. I look forward to hearing from you. Claire
Claire Bastide <claireparis999@aol.com>
England - Monday, March 11, 2013 at 14:13:18 (GMT)
Just read your fine 'Zestful Gollopers' which I bought recently on
T'internet. A very enjoyable read, and great to get a deeper insight
into what was obviously a fantastic club to be associated with. Born too
late unfortunately ! Thanks for the read - I grinned a good way through
it. Really enjoyed the dry wit of Bert and the gang.
Del Robertson <delboy639@googlemail.com>
United Kingdom - Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at 21:51:49 (GMT)
Was there any bill posters and advertisments for the AOFB apart from
newspapers/magazines?? I beleive there was a compation for advertising I
belive to the wine trades etc ---Anybody know please?? Regards GDC
GDC <grahamdc@hotmail.co.uk>
keny - Tuesday, March 12, 2013 at 22:25:15 (GMT)
Have just found about the Order and I believe in the ideals!
John Dickins <John@dickinsauctioneers.com>
England - Saturday, May 04, 2013 at 16:04:18 (GMT)
my mother passed away recently and on clearing out we came across
this hammer with
deborah gaul <debsgaul1@hotmail.co.uk>
uk - Friday, May 24, 2013 at 13:11:56 (GMT)
I now know what my father is on about having found this site having
the photos from around 1930 in staffordshire it all makes sense know
Dave plant <Mrgrumpy.wm.im>
Isle of man - Friday, July 26, 2013 at 08:16:00 (GMT)
I have recently been given a copy of a F.O.F.B handbook from my
mother in law. It has been in the family many years. His name was F.W.
Gooder. C/O B F Engineers club. Was keen to find out any information on
the history of this handbook.
Vicky Hale <vickyhale21@hotmail.com>
Hampshire - Sunday, September 29, 2013 at 19:41:34 (GMT)
I have recently been given a copy of a F.O.F.B handbook from my
mother in law. It has been in the family many years. His name was F.W.
Gooder. C/O B F Engineers club. Was keen to find out any information on
the history of this handbook.
Vicky Hale <vickyhale21@hotmail.com>
Hampshire - Sunday, September 29, 2013 at 19:42:06 (GMT)
Attended a talk on the AFOB in Lewes last night as part of The Ale
& Hearty beer and brewing project. At first I thought it was a spoof
but what a wonderful tale!!
Bob Oliver <r.oliver@sky.com>
West Susssex - Thursday, October 03, 2013 at 20:45:34 (GMT)
I HAVE BOOK No612097 FROM 1927. THE ACCOUNTS FINALISED AT 53.231
POUNDS 6 SHILLINGS AND THRUPENCE. LOVE TO HAVE HAD A BEER OR TWO WITH
BERT!
Dick curtis <rm-curtis@hotmail.com>
Australia - Thursday, November 21, 2013 at 21:45:16 (GMT)
I have an A.O.F.B.Membership card No439473 which has been passed
down to me.The name and address of the member has not been filled in but
I am 99%certain it belonged to my grandfather Stanley.He died age 45 due
to alcoholism.However I found your website and information about the
Froth-blowers fascinating and it has cetainly satisfied my curiosity
about this marvelous excentric yet short lived phenomenom a description
that could apply to Bert Temple or "The Ancient Order" itself I think!
Paul Midwood
- Friday, December 13, 2013 at 20:51:47 (GMT)
Googled A O B F and spent a fascinating evening reading up on the
froth blowers. Lovely stuff.
David Leader <davidl5@talktalk.net>
UK - Wednesday, February 12, 2014 at 21:02:03 (GMT)
I have my grandfathers AOFB cuff links and am about to pass them on
to my son. Grandpa used to tell us what the initials stood for but until
today I knew nothing else bout them so thank you! (My grandfather was
born in 1879 and lived in Manchester). Liz Draper
Liz Draper <lizdraper@fsmail.net>
England - Wednesday, February 19, 2014 at 07:25:29 (GMT)
May the Froth be with you!!!
Kelvin Edgar <kelvinedgarpiai@yahoo.co.uk>
England, UK - Thursday, August 14, 2014 at 18:57:10 (GMT)
I inherited a cufflink box from my grandfather when I was a small boy.
It contained a pair of cufflinks with the initials AOFB. I had always
assumed it was something military related and never bothered to find
out. It was only this morning that I decided to look up what it meant
and have found out about the Froth Blowers! I am very excited to learn
more.
Chris Parker <chris.parker@slingshot.co.nz>
New Zealand - Wednesday, August 20, 2014 at 06:15:30 (GMT)
I was at an Auction yesterday and bought a 'job lot' of silver
principally for a fruit knife, which I collect. Amongst the lot was a
strange little badge, a bearded man with a red nose and A.O.F.B Tornado
on the bottom. What a delight to look-up The initials and discover the
Froth Blowers, particularly as I run a Bar and am a Camera member. As
the badge is Hall marked, I have naturally done a little digging and was
surprised to find that it is dated 1926/27, about the time that the
Froth Blowers were founded. Needless to say, this has now gone from a
mere curio, to a piece that now has a proud place in my little
collection.
John Marriott <johnrm@live.co.uk>
Kent - Thursday, February 05, 2015 at 12:19:48 (GMT)
Always remember; If you look at it in the right light you will never
see darkness
Donn Simon <donn@donana.net>
USA - Sunday, August 16, 2015 at 13:50:21 (GMT)
Honorable Gentlemen, How does one become a member of your venerable
order? Your society looks fantastic! Cheers and good day! James Jarvis
James Jarvis <sfcrimp@hotmail.com>
USA - Tuesday, August 18, 2015 at 21:49:06 (GMT)
My Father Captain Charles Kettlewell was a Grand Typhoon. I have
recently consigned his Grand Typhoon regalia and tankard to Lawrences of
Crewkerne for their sale on 19/20 November. If anyone is interested the
catalogue will be on line at www.lawrences.co.uk nearer the date or
e-mail: enquiries@lawrences.co.uk Tel: 01460 73041 They have live
internet and telephone bidding.
Captain N I C KETTLEWELL
- Monday, September 14, 2015 at 13:37:22 (GMT)
I just discovered a Membership book passed down through the family,
among a pile of old papers. The Membership No is 444206 - is it possible
to find out what year this might be and anything else relevant to our
family?
Linda Gibson <linda.gibson@nhs.net>
UK - Saturday, October 10, 2015 at 16:24:50 (GMT)
Thanks for a great website with tons of information. Keep up the
good work and keep drinking!
Adele Pucci <fidei2@yahoo.com>
Thailand - Thursday, December 10, 2015 at 08:31:18 (GMT)
Simply had to say Now i'm glad I stumbled on your webpage! regalos
de empresas
Arlette <arlettejonson@gmail.com>
Australia - Wednesday, March 16, 2016 at 09:00:42 (GMT)
Met some of you guys at the Sussex Beer Fest March 2016 I am
intrigered and want to join you for real ale rambles Kind regards Sean
07541 163436
sean <seanburke1962@yahoo.co.uk>
east sussex - Saturday, March 19, 2016 at 15:53:40 (GMT)
I was doing some research on the Ghost Town of Anyox on the NW BC
Coast, when I came across a list of social clubs etc. There on the
bottom of the list was Hidden Creek Vat AOFB Now I'm hooked ! I have my
cuff-links courtesy of eBay :) Anyone in British Columbia interested in
rekindling vat, please contact me. aidan@dipsophilia.com (The Love of
Drinking) Cheers Aidan
Aidan C Gordon <aidan@dipsophilia.com >
Canada - Tuesday, March 22, 2016 at 04:38:30 (GMT)
great site
Russ Morrison <hrmorrison@telus.net>
Canada - Tuesday, June 21, 2016 at 15:33:59 (GMT)
I must have been one in my past life. Amazing!!!!!!
Skque <noreply@example.com>
United States - Monday, August 08, 2016 at 01:38:28 (GMT)
Found your site when researching my great uncle's membership book
found in his effects, Frank Brook number 239073. Good to see that the
memory of this fun charity is being preserved.
Stephen Brook <stephenjbrook@gmail.com>
United Kingdom - Monday, August 08, 2016 at 09:10:54 (GMT)
Chris Frothblower Kilmister guided me to this site ..and how
interesting it is . xx
Amanda J Wright
UK - Thursday, August 25, 2016 at 19:41:02 (GMT)
It was a great pleasure and honour to attend the annual reunion
yesterday and to meet some more of the friends of the froth blowers.
Thank you to David for organising such a wonderful event and I look
forward to drinking his beer in the Grove Tavern soon.
John Pearson <johnmpearson2004@yahoo.co.uk>
England - Sunday, October 09, 2016 at 10:07:35 (GMT)
Thanks to all who attended the Annual Gathering on the 8th! A very
jovial affair - I think I can say we are getting used to each other!
Dave the Chain (& Piffle Snonker)
- Tuesday, October 18, 2016 at 17:27:21 (GMT)
Tried this breweries ale for the first time on Thursday and couldn't
wait for Friday to come so I could drink some more.
Carl Craney <carl.perton61@hotmail.co.uk>
England - Saturday, October 29, 2016 at 12:11:36 (GMT)
I was telling my father in law about the signboard in Spring park
Woods West Wickham giving information about the Ancient Order of Froth
Blowers when he told me his father was one and that he was to. He then
produced his Fathers membership card number 1796 along with his
cufflinks. an interesting discussion then continued and another part of
family history discovered. An order I could very happily have been a
member of. The observandum was good reading
Billy Boyle <william_boyle1@sky.com>
England - Saturday, November 19, 2016 at 18:07:46 (GMT)
My Father was a member before WW2. I still have his Cuff Links which
I treasure...Mick Bray
Mick Bray <micknedbray@hotmail.com>
UK - Wednesday, June 07, 2017 at 18:45:05 (GMT)
Having recently purchased a copy of "The Zestful Gollopers", I was
subsequently informed by Dave of my 'unanimous election' to FOFB. My
email to Dave, (below), expresses my gratitude for this bestowal, and
will serve to explain how I came to be member No. 333 in the first
place. It all started with my discovery of my father's AOFB cufflinks
while going through a box of his things: Thank you for unanimously
electing me to the Friends Of The Froth Blowers. I am humbled and
honoured. It is only fair, however, for me to tell you that through
inheritance I am also an AOFB member. Indeed, my father was a member
during the heyday, and at his death 31 years ago I inherited his AOFB
cufflinks. This, regardless of what anyone else might think, in my view
makes me an AOFB member by legacy, whether or not the Order still
exists. I am very happy to augment that with FOFB membership. My father
was Dutch and lived in England in the late ‘20’s/early ‘30’s. (He worked
for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines at Croydon, and was married to an English
girl at the time.) I grew up in Europe – The Netherlands and Switzerland
- and come from a long line of people for whom this sort of serious
nonsense was/is essential to everyday life. I perpetuate that view and
include not only my wife and dogs, but any friends I feel are worthy of
being included in that sort of lifestyle. I can think of a couple of
them who would make fine FOFB candidates, being themselves already
members of E. Clampus Vitus, or “Clampers”, a drinking/historical
society that goes ‘way back in the Western U.S. (Google it...) I have my
own “organisation” here that runs on the same sort of basic rules system
– none. One of my hobbies is collecting and restoring antique French
motorbikes, the venerable Vélosolex – you’re probably familiar with it,
if not, well, again, there’s always Google. There are quite a few
like-minded afficionados in the UK, several of them friends of mine.
Here in the US, especially on the Left Coast, Vélosolex (Solex) bikes
are few and far between, but a (very) small number of us do exist to
perpetuate our fondness for the beast, and so one day, with nothing
better to do, I founded the SLO Rollers Solex Club. (SLO for San Luis
Obispo where I live). There are no rules, no dues, no obligations or
charter. It just is. And since I founded it, I’m the president. Everyone
else is a vice-president. Does this sort of organisation sound familiar
to you? Good! (By the way, while we’re loosely on the topic of
presidents and such, I wish to note in passing That I did NOT vote for
the uncultured ignoramus currently befouling the White House and
screwing up the World! Just wanted to get that in.) And now a word about
froth. As you might fear, British suds are not widespread hereabouts, so
we have to make do with other things, but at my house none of them
American, least of all Budweiser which in my circle is referred to as
Buttwiper, and with good reason. There is one shop nearby which does
carry a few British brands, as well as Guinness (yes, I KNOW it’s
Irish!), so I am not entirely at the mercy of stuff not sanctioned by
the FOFB. I wish I could have presented my father with your book – he
would have loved it. I look forward to thoroughly reading my copy.
Cheers! And thanks again for my membership! One final note - One of my
above-mentioned friends, Steve, just recently became member No. 334, and
I'm working on the other one. Hopefully we'll soon be able to include
him in the newly-formed California Vat as well. With all due respect,
(whether due or not...) Charles De Vogel
Charles De Vogel <cdevogel436@gmail.com>
USA - Friday, July 28, 2017 at 17:55:17 (GMT)
I have been in possession of my grandfathers cuff links AOFB as long
as I can remember. I have no use for them and wonder if they have a
market value. I've left a message with Ian
Heather gray <Heather.gray7@gmail.com>
Northumberland - Monday, August 14, 2017 at 10:43:33 (GMT)
I found your site when researching my grandfathers AOFB cuff links.
I am hoping to sell them.
Heather gray <Heather.gray7@gmail.com>
England - Monday, August 14, 2017 at 10:45:55 (GMT)
My Father recently was given an AOFB passport by an old friend and
has now passed it on to me for display in the local museum.
Unfortunately the cufflinks (the card is still there) and licence are
missing. Researching the Order is proving most enjoyable and is raising
a lot of interest in the local Micropub (The Paper Mill).
Cliff Cork <cccorkythecat@gmail.com>
England - Thursday, August 24, 2017 at 08:51:41 (GMT)
Just came into possession of my Grandfathers AOFB Cufflinks. His
name was Archer McCormick Vandervoort. Is there any evidence of his
membership? Dates of induction, etc. He passed in '72 and was a resident
of Florida and mainly NY, USA working directly for J.P. Morgan, the man.
David Bentley <dbent1557@gmail.com>
United States - Saturday, August 26, 2017 at 20:35:50 (GMT)
Very interesting site!
Gordon Tebbutt <tebbuttgordon @gmail.com>
Canada - Wednesday, November 22, 2017 at 19:52:59 (GMT)
May the merry and historical traditions of the AOFB continue ad
infinitum!
Lt Col (ret.) Jeremy J.C. Shoop <jeremyshoop@gmail.com>
USA - Monday, November 27, 2017 at 06:27:24 (GMT)
Wow, what a 'retro' looking site! Looked you up because of a Lord
Peter Wimsey reference.
Harriet Engle <ObscureReferenceWoman@gmail.com>
USA - Friday, April 27, 2018 at 16:08:41 (GMT)
My uncle was in UK in the '20's and brought back some stuff that I
have.Membership card 633687,Blaster Mug,(what was NO HEEL TAPS)? also
ONE cufflink,one armband?,a match container with matches,and what seems
to be a ladies powder compact.
Peter Haynes <peter@haynesy.net>
Australia - Monday, June 25, 2018 at 07:33:50 (GMT)
Peter Gossage <Peter@curlsbarn.com >
UK - Monday, July 23, 2018 at 17:31:41 (GMT)
My first cousin lived in London and did ads for beefeaters etc! had
worked for the BBC ALSO! so I thought he might belong (belonged) to this
group at one time (John Welz
Mary Welz <mcwelz@yahoo.com>
USA - Sunday, September 02, 2018 at 20:57:56 (GMT)
In 1976 I first saw this special pair of cuff links in silver with
blue detail. AO. FB. I asked my father what they meant and he explained
that his father, my grandfather (recently them deceased) had been a
member of the Ancienr Order and one day this special privedge of so few
would be passed to me ... I remembered this In 2017, my own father now a
very spritely 81 year old passed the cuff links to me with the reminder
that I ought to carry on the Robson order. I am with pride wearing my
cuff links on various occasions and look forward to meeting other
members of the Ancient Order in a VAT soon . I am indeed a loving beer
drinker Paul Robson. 52. Old, Northamptonshire
Paul Robson <paul@medialease.com>
United Kingdom - Monday, October 15, 2018 at 00:52:07 (GMT)
I just found a pair of A.O.F.B. cuff links amongst my Grandfather's
belongings, then found their origin. Really impressed by the original
idea and it's activities. Love the description - "pussyfooting
hornwogglers", "solid bone from the neck up". I have heard of a pub
named The Froth Blowers, through a friend of mine, since telling him
about A.O.F.B. Amazing where findings lead!
Kate Steenson <ksteenson@gmail.com>
United Kingdom - Friday, November 30, 2018 at 13:57:57 (GMT)
Having become recently acquainted with the ancient ways by kind
introduction of Dave from the Froth Blowers Brewing Co, I’d like to
subscribe to the newsletter so that I might be able to ‘shoot my linen’
with likeminded at a future gathering. Many thanks in advance. Fraternal
regards, Ian Shaw
Ian Shaw <ian@thehippyhippo.co.uk>
UK - Sunday, January 06, 2019 at 11:50:56 (GMT)
Thanks for the site. Would love to find out more.
David Halford <davey276276@gmail.com>
Bucks - Tuesday, February 05, 2019 at 23:18:35 (GMT)
Very informative,. I shall visit often to update my knowledge
Benjamin Skillings <randybunny@hotmail.com>
England - Sunday, April 14, 2019 at 10:56:47 (GMT)
Being an avid (albeit amateur) Froth Blower I would very much like
to put my Froth Blowing on a more formal footing by joining your august
group. Cheers.
Richard Kerfoot < >
Ireland - Wednesday, June 05, 2019 at 13:17:53 (GMT)
Many decades after my father died I am finally going through the
brown tuck box. Among the demob papers, school reports, and anonymous
photos I found an A.O.F.B membership card, no: 97917. The membership
details have no been filled in. My father would have been too young, so
it presumably belonged to my grandfather, a doctor who worked as much as
possible in the East End, principally on the then seemingly endless
fight against tuberculosis. He would have been keen to support the
cause. Good to see the concept has been revived.
Andy Goss <andy@andygoss.net.au>
Australia - Sunday, July 07, 2019 at 05:17:39 (GMT)
this ancient order was first made known to me via a very dear
friend, unfortunately no longer with us, by way of a silver glass charm
with A.O.F.B and Blaster on it. ever since his sad passing I have often
wondered just what the order was. Know I have more of an idea thank you
Edward Baggott <ejbejb1966@gmail.com>
United Kingdom - Tuesday, January 21, 2020 at 13:59:15 (GMT)
Found a small collection of personal items in a Carshalton antique
shop, including a membership card and napkin from the AOFB. They
belonged to a lady called Winifred Appleby, baptised 1899. This led me
to this website- fascinating slice of social history.
ian rawat <ian.rawat@yahoo.com>
United Kingdom - Wednesday, February 19, 2020 at 10:44:53 (GMT)
Thank you for this website. I came across a strip of the "50
Children's Cots" stamps and tried to discover more about them. They were
folded along one perforation but are remarkably intact given their age.
Thank you to those who put together the information about the A.O.F.B. I
have no idea where my father found these (he lived in Winnipeg,
Manitoba), but the history is interesting.
Cheryl Exner <cexner@myaccess.ca>
Canada - Sunday, February 23, 2020 at 03:29:09 (GMT)
We have have just created our zFroth Brothers in McPherson, KS.
Would like to get my hands on The Zestful Gollopers book since we can't
get it in America. Thx
William Koonce <BILLKOONCE@GMAIL.COM>
United States - Wednesday, August 12, 2020 at 14:35:33 (GMT)
Great information ! Thanks !
Mark Pressey <Markpressey@seproperties.com>
USA - Friday, August 14, 2020 at 15:22:55 (GMT)
Just come accross my Grandfather's AOFB certificate (S G GaLLOP).
Lovely to know that, whilst a staid Bank Manager, he had a good sense of
humour.
George Bowser <egeorgebowser@gmail.com>
Devon - Monday, November 09, 2020 at 17:57:26 (GMT)
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