Place Names of Calne: Duncan Street

Duncan Street

This collection of 80s-built red brick houses is named after Canon John Duncan (1833-1907), who was appointed Vicar of Calne in 1865 by the Bishop of Salisbury (after the death of Canon Guthrie). This is a man known to get things done, he joined Calne after leaving Lyneham. During his 6 years there he had created 2 new schools, a new church a Bradenstoke and had restored the church at Lyneham[1].

During his time in Calne, the cleric and educationalist, founded St. Mary's School, which opened in 1873 after he had secured funding. This school was to provide the girls of the area a sound education and a definite faith in Christ. Duncan was also instrumental in having the Mill Street and Guthrie schools enlarged and being the president of the Literary Institution, was prominent in the creation of the Free Library in Calne (the Carnegie Building)[2].

Duncan remained Vicar of Calne, for 42 years, until his death in 1907. He had preached 3 times the preceeding day (Sunday), but was suddenly taken ill on the Monday afternoon, after spending time engaging in business with the Town Clerk. He died at the age of 74, the cause being angina pectoris[3].

His funeral was held on Saturday, 2 February 1907, at the Parish Church and Trinity Church, where he was interred in the Trinity Church churchyard. Lord Lansdowne was one of the pallbearers, with Lady Lansdowne and Lord Kerry being among the mourners, perhaps a small sign as to how valued this man was to Calne.

References:
[1] Stedmond, K., 1986. St. Mary's School Calne 1873-1986. 1st ed. Stroud: B.A. Hathaway Printers.
[2] 1907. Death of the Rev. Canon Duncan. Wiltshire Times and Trowbridge Advertiser, 2 Februar 1907. p.5.
[3] 1907. Death of Canon Duncan of Calne. Bath Chronicle and Weekly Gazette, 31 January 1907. p.8.