The following article appeared in The East Kent Gazette on the 9th of June 1894. The picture is from the Hartlip archives.

Presentation to Mr Edmund Stevens. – On Monday last a meeting of the inhabitants and others was held at Hartlip Place, by the kind invitation of Mrs Faussett-Osborne, when a purse, containing nearly £40, and an illuminated address were presented to the late master of Hartlip Endowed School, Mr Edmund Stevens, who also received a walking stick from the scholars, while a work basket and a bouquet were given to Mrs Stevens. The presentations were made by the Vicar. In returning thanks, Mr Stevens spoke of the educational changes, both in Hartlip and in the country generally, since he began his work in Hartlip School on the 18th of March, 1848, or more than 46 years ago. He wished every success to Mr and Mrs Labrum, his young and energetic successors. He thanked everybody concerned in the kind gifts to himself and his wife. Mr Faussett-Osborne and Mr Locke also addressed those present. Mrs Faussett-Osborne and her son kindly gave a tea to the scholars before the presentation, and wine and cake to the adults afterwards, Mr Steven’s health being drunk with musical honours. We may add that the Education Department have awarded Mr Stevens a pension of £30 per annum. The following is a copy of their testimonial:-

"To Mr Edmund Stevens:- Dear Mr Stevens, - On your retirement from the mastership of Hartlip Endowed School your many friends connected with Hartlip desire to express to you their appreciation of your earnest and successful labours for nearly 47 years. Under your hand our school has attained to a proficiency of which we are justly proud, and which we feel is due to your patient and never flagging interest. Many of us have received from you the training which has fitted us for the duties of our present positions. Others of us have felt that our children have been well prepared by you for the battle of life. We all recognize that you have endeavoured to guide those in your care to eternal happiness. We beg you to accept the accompanying purse, and we wish you and Mrs Stevens many years of health and happiness. We are your sincere friends.” Here followed 250 names.

The picture shows the school in 1856 and is said to be a sketch made by Edmund Stevens in the year in which this building was demolished and a new school building erected nearby.