Introduction
The breakdown of the marriage between Olive Vivian Trainor and Henry Keddey Fletcher led to a series of legal proceedings in the early 1920s. These documents provide insight not only into the marriage itself, but also into contemporary expectations of behaviour, gender, and social conduct.
Petition for Restitution of Conjugal Rights (1921)
In February 1921, Olive petitioned the High Court seeking:
- Restitution of conjugal rights
- Custody of the children
- Further relief as the Court deemed appropriate
Response of Henry Keddey Fletcher
In reply, Fletcher set out a detailed defence, alleging:
- Frequent travel and stays in London against his wishes
- Socialising and dining with other men
- Entertaining guests late into the night
- Attendance at night clubs and public amusements
- Gambling and financial extravagance
- Violent outbursts within the home
- Neglect of both husband and children
These claims were presented as justification for his separation from his wife.
Divorce Proceedings (1923)
In 1923, Fletcher petitioned for divorce, alleging that:
Olive Vivian Fletcher had committed adultery at the Grand Hotel, Folkestone, with a man passing as “Mr Fletcher.”
The petition was successful, and the marriage was dissolved. Custody of the children was not granted to Olive.
Associated Proceedings
At the same time, Capt. Wilfred H. J. Joynson-Wreford was himself subject to divorce proceedings, in which Olive was named.
This suggests a direct connection between the two cases.
Source
National Archives:
J 77/1729/3840
J 77/2045/4053