Mary Stevens

In May 1977 Mary and her husband moved to The Lane West Mersea from their home in North Weald in Essex. Both originated from East London. Mary loved the island with its unique history and wonderful community spirit which subsequently led her to join the Museum Committee. She joined the Mersea Museum 1979/80. There was at this time much fund raising taking place in support of funds for the proposed MICA (Mersea Island Community Association) building. She participated in these events whenever possible.

Research started on the Rev. Charles Pierrepont Edwards. MC during 1980 following an interesting conversation she held with Bill Clarry, an older member of the community. "Old Spiery" was originally published in 1983. Whilst serving the museum as archivist, she catalogued many artefacts as well as producing a new design of Accession Register. She resigned from the museum in February 1988. For her service she was presented with an Aynsley flower vase by the committee.

Late in 1987 she formed a friendship with the late Francis Snell. Together they ran their 'Animal Rescue' stall at the Country Fair held at the WI hall on alternate Saturday mornings. They sold all manner of donated bric-a-brac with all of the proceeds going to animal rescue centres. To help swell the funds Mary propagated and cultivated plants which she sold from her home which was then in Fairhaven Avenue. People came from far and wide to purchase her low priced plants and leave empty or unwanted flower pots.