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Norman Braund

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BORN at Milton Damerel, Devon, in 1855, Mr. Braund was led into the light when an apprentice to the drapery business at Hatherleigh. In 1875 he proceeded to London, and for some time, because of distance, he worshipped with the Congregationalists, but on the opening of Kilburn Chapel he returned to his own denomination. His interest in the church at Kilburn soon opened for him spheres of usefulness, and he became society and chapel steward. The Sunday school also claimed his attention, and he was appointed leader of a young people's Bible class and superintendent. During his stay in London he was closely associated with the Sunday School Union and the Children's Special Service Mission.
1
Marrying in 1879, he removed from London to Paignton to establish a business for himself. Bible Christians in Paignton at that time were neither many nor prosperous, the rented room used for worship being scantily attended. The old Con­gregational Chapel was subsequently purchased and renovated, a Sunday school was established, and Mr. Braund was appointed superintendent. In Sunday school work he takes great delight, and is reputed to be almost an ideal superintendent. He has an able colleague in his devoted wife, who for more than twenty years has been a successful teacher of a Bible class. Within recent years the premises have been enlarged and renovated at a cost of about £450, and considerable progress is reported in both church and school.




In addition to filling official positions in the school and circuit, Mr. Braund has evidenced con­siderable interest in educational affairs. For nine years he was a member of the old School Board, and during a portion of the time served as vice-­chairman. He is now a member of the new authority, and occupies the post of chairman. The Council day schools, for which he has done so much, are reported to be among the best in Devon. Mr. Braund is also a member of the Higher Edu­cation Committee, and is one of the governors of a charitable fund, the object of which is to provide education for the poor. Attempts have been made to induce him to serve on the Urban Council, but in vain, his time and energy being already fully employed.
2
Loyal to his Master and Lord, Mr, Braund is also loyal to the Connexion, and his spirit and character count for much in the upbuilding of the church at Paignton, and the sweetening of the lives of those who gather around him.




[ Volume 1 pages  249 - 251 ]



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