1827 – Farmer Killed by Bull

Thomas Loton, a farmer in Acton Beauchamp was smoking his pipe whilst standing in his fold yard.

For some reason, his bull attacked him and gored him to death.

1843 – Transportation for Life

Stephen Fudger was convicted  of rape of a country girl at Acton Beauchamp, and was sentenced to be transported for life.

1851 – Suicide of a Farmer at Acton Beauchamp

John Roper of Stinton’s Farm, Acton Beauchamp had been depressed for some time, mainly because of the illness of his wife.

His wife went to stay with her father in law in Tedstone Delamare for a few days,  and then John Roper left his home intending to go and pick her up.  Unfortunately, he succombed to his addiction to drink and stopped off to down a few……rather more than a few …… and he never made it to see his wife, but eventually returned home some three days later.

John did go to get his wife later that day, and although rather down in the dumps he didn’t cause anyone any alarm, and went to bed quite happily.  However, he rose at four in the morning to call the servants, and it is thought that at this time he took a quantity of agricultural arsenic – unsurprisingly he said that he felt ill and went back to bed, calling for water  of which he drank vast amounts.

John started being sick but refused medical attention and within a short time he died.

At the inquest, attention was drawn to his alcoholism and occasional depression, and the jury returned a verdict of death from the effects of arsenic taken while in a state of temporary insanity.

1860 – Depravity at Acton Beauchamp

James Bannister, a twelve year old boy, was charged with raping a four and a half year old girl Hannah -the daughter of Thomas Elcocks, a farmer of Acton Beauchamp.

James entered the employ of Mr Elcock during the previous year, and part of his duties was to take the girl and her younger sister to school in the village.  On one occasion, on returning home, Hannah was crying and said that James had been hurting her, but her mother ignored it thinking it was just a children’s fight.

Eventually though,Hannah grew weak and was unable to walk so she was taken to Mr. Shelton, the surgeon at Bromyard.  The truth became clear after an examination, and James was arrested.  He admitted that on that very day he had twice raped Hannah in the cart house.

Poor Hannah was badly traumatised both mentally and physically, and when she was taken into court in the arms of a nurse everyone was convinced that she had died and the surgeon was hastily called for.  However, Mr.Shelton assured everyone that she was still alive but he was doubtful whether she would live very long and understandably, her mother was in a dreadful state in the court room.

James was described as “sharp”, and had remained unmoved throughout the court proceedings;  meanwhile his mother cried bitterly and at the end begged the Bench to bail out her boy.  This was finally agreed upon.

1863 – Execution

James Webb was convicted of stealing nine sheep at Acton Beauchamp, belonging to Mr. Elcocks of Colwall.

He was executed at Hereford Gaol on 22nd August 1818

1863 – Tragic death of child at Acton Beauchamp

Richard Elcox was the four year old son of Mr. T. Elcox of Acton Beauchamp.

It seems that he was trying to reach a fire hook over the fire, and his clothing caught fire – his screams alterted his father, but by the time he reached his child he was dreadfully burnt, and no amount of medical assistance could save him.

Richard died the following day.

Thomas Turner, Labourer of Adforton, was charged by Mr. John Titley, Farmer of the same place, with having assaulted him on the night of Monday on the road near the complainant’s house.

The charge having been fully proved, Turned was fine 20s and 8s 6d costs, or in default, one month’s imprisonment.

1843 – The Effects of Passion

Adforton and the neighbouring villages were hugely excited by a fatal row between reapers who were working at Grange Farm belonging to W. Child Esq. It seems that there was a dispute amongst the reapers who were rather drunk (probably on the free cider that was liberally given to farm workers) about how well and fast they reaped – blows were exchanged, before one chap, Thomas Turner, decided to use his reaping hook. This was a tad unfair, and resulted in the death of John Stephens from Wigmore, and serious wounding of James Thomas.

John Stephen’s body was taken to the house of Mr. Titley at Adforton in readiness for the inquest. Thomas Turner of Adforton was charged with the two offences.

Richardson, the Police Officer of Leintwardine took him to the house of the wounded man, James Thomas, who was laid up in bed, and where William Mason, Magistrate attended.

James Thomas, speaking from his bed, said that he was reaping in Mr. Child’s field along with the prisoner, and chastised him for working too slowly saying that he would *cut the calf skin”, meaning the gaiters he had on where were of calf skin. He then said that ten minutes later they had angry words between them, ending with the dead man, John Stephen, saying to Thomas Turner “if you do not shut your mouth, I will shut it for you” Next thing he saw was John Stephen lying on the ground bleeding, and when he went to investigate Thomas hit him with the reaping hook, both on the hip and thigh.

Further testimonies bore out what had already been said, and the prisoner declined to comment.

A verdict of Manslaughter was returned, and he was committed for trial at the assizes

1858 – Nasty accident

“An accident of an appalling nature occurred to Mr. Longmore of Adforton who was on his return from Orleton fair; riding at a rapid pace when turning a sharp curve in a narrow part of the road, he was thrown from his horse with such violence as to cause his death a few hours after”

1859 – Death by Poisoning at Adforton

Thomas Passey died from poisoning, but just before he passed away he stated that a man named Clement Baldwin gave him the poison.

A very lengthy and thorough inquest resulted in the jury deciding that Thomas Passey died from poison, but that there was nothing to implicate Clement Baldwin in any way, and in fact it was most likely that Thomas had taken the poison himself, albeit unknowingly.

1864 – A Desertion

Thomas Davies of Adforton, Labourer, was charged by P.S. Edwards with being a deserter from her Majesty’s 7th Regiment of Hussars.

1884 – Man Kicked by Horse at Adforton

John Edwards of Adforton was carting away dirt piles which had been scraped from the road.  After a while his horse grew restless, and eventually reared up over John, kicking him on the shoulder and immediately dislocating it.

The injuries did not end there, because as the horse came down its chest banged into John’s head with some violence.  He was knocked out for some time, but on coming round managed to get himself home where he lay in agony until the doctor arrived to put his shoulder back into place

1886 – The Leinthall Herefords

The Hereford herd was established at Coston Hall in 1869, its nucleus having been animals obtained by Mr. Tudge from his father, the late William Tudge of Adforton, whose stock acquired such a world wide reputation.

1841 – The Queen’s Coach in a collision near Ashperton

Mr. R. Rider of Ledbury was returning home from Ashperton when he met the Queen’s Coach, which was on its way to Hereford, on the canal bridge. Mr. Rider rode as close as he could to the wall on the side of the bridge, but the step of the coach caught his leg, badly lacerating it and nearly pulling him from his horse. It seems that the coach driver saw no reason to stop to offer assistance, and the poor chap had to struggle home. He lost vast amounts of blood and was in a state of collapse, and when medical help was summoned the doctor was shocked by the extent of the injuries.

Following the initial report, there was a second one which was quick to transfer blame to Mr. Rider. It was stated that Mr. Ford, the Queen’s Coachman, was noted for his steady driving and that nobody should think that he was at fault.

1845 – Hilarious “Pleasure Party”  near Ashperton

I cannot improve on the account provided by the Hereford Times:

“On the afternoon of Sunday last, the weather proving very propitious, a party of young men, some of them mechanics, and the rest of various occupations, having worked all the previous week, thought they would seek a little recreation. Accordingly they procured a pleasure boat and, in the highest possible glee, to the number of 14 or 15 set sail on our new canal, which, by the bye, is thought as much of by many of the Ledburians as the Thames is by the Londoners, or as is the mighty Atlantic by those whose coasts are washed by its angry waves. Well, this happy party, who we must not forget to state, had pretty well “moistened their clay”, intended to go as far as Ashperton; but, Ashperton alas that day they were doomed not to reach. The boat sailed well til it arrived at Swinmoor about five miles from Ledbury, when lo, through some unforeseen and unaccountable mishap, over she went and in the twinkling of an eye the whole of her precious freight, all dressed in their Sunday best, were immersed in the water! We are informed that the scrambling, shouting and screaming which ensued, baffles all description; had a party of females been placed in a similar predicament, there could not have been more noise. We are glad however, to be enabled to state that all managed to get to land, although a child which they had taken with them had a very narrow escape from drowning.

All the inconvenience now experienced is a few slight colds and a little damage to the Sunday toggery.”

1847 – Trespass by Chickens at Ashperton

A farmer, Mr. Joseph Fennell, complained that Susan Cope of Ashperton had allowed her chickens to trespass on his land and thereby damage his wheat to the amount of one shilling. Mrs. Cope didn’t turn up at court, but Mr. Fennell said that five or six of her chickens were in his field scratching up the wheat; he said that he had told her several times to fasten them up and initially she did, but then let them loose again.

The magistrates convicted Susan Cope and fined her including expenses, 9s 6d. She then turned up at court and when being told of the decision she said that she penned the fowls up when told to do so, but let them loose again thinking that they could not possibly damage the wheat. She pleaded poverty, saying that she was a widow with children to provide for, and promised faithfully to keep the chickens at home in future.

The Rev. Edward Higgins paid the constable for serving the summons and Mr. Masefield kindly forgave his fees.

1850 – Riding without Reins at Ashperton

William Rouse and William Gurney were summoned for riding without reins in the turnpike road in Ashperton.

Rouse was fined 6s 6d and Gurney, 10s.

1852 – Sad Death of George Sexty

George Sexty was a well respected tradesman with a grocery business in Ledbury. He had been at the house of Mr. Thomas Dutson, a farmer in Ashperton, drinking gin and water. He rode home on a pony, accompanied by two of Mr. Dutson’s men for some time, but at his own request he eventually continued alone. At midnight several people heard cries, but they just assumed it was drunks. The next morning George was discovered dead in a pool by the roadside, from apoplexy.

The verdict was “Died by the visitation of God”

1852 – Dramatic Flooding at Ashperton

Herefordshire was under water for many days, with farm houses submerged; haystacks washed away and livestock drowned. Many roads were under water and the Hereford Railway Bridge over the River Wye was washed away by the force of the water. The Canal at Ashperton burst its banks, and traffic was stranded.

1862 – Selling Spirits without a License at Ashperton

Appearing before R. Biddulph and J.M. Aynsley, an Irishman by the name of James Dunlavey was charged with hawking spirits without a license at Ashperton. He was fined 25s, with the option of three months hard labour

1863 – Capture of a thief at Ashperton

A policeman was ambling along his beat early in the morning near the Woodsend, and stopped to lean on a gate. (Oh those wonderful days of PC Plod). He thought he heard a noise and looking around spotted someone coming up the road; he hid in the hedge until the person was level and accosted him, asking his name and telling him to stop – to no avail. Our gallant policeman grabbed hold of him and threatened handcuffs, but “Jimmy” (that was his name) said he would go quietly. He wore a jacket with a cunning pocket the whole length of his back, and whilst walking along he managed to slip his arms out of the jacket and legged it. The policeman gave chase, and Jimmy began to flag, then finding himself about to be caught he gave every intention of harming the policeman, who cleverly stuck his foot out and sent him sprawling in the mud at the same time falling upon Jimmy “until he grunted”. Our hero said that we would like to know where the apples that filled the hidden pocket came from, but the “bird was too old to be caught by chaff”.

The prisoner was handcuffed and taken to Mr. Palmer of Woodsend to learn his name, and everyone was astounded to discover that he was one who was considered the most honest man in the parish! Jimmy was taken fore Magistrates, but as nobody came forward to prosecute, he was set free with a caution.

1866 – Attempted Suicide by Old Woman at Ashperton – a very sad tale

A woman of roughtly 79 described as “very old” was charged with attempting to destroy herself by hanging.

John Abell a farmer of Ashperton said that he found the old woman in his shed, with a cord round her neck; the other end she had tied to a hurdle and stake, and was pulling away trying to strangle herself. He untied her and asked what on earth she thought she was doing, and she said that she had no home nor anywhere to go.

To his discredit, the farmer sent her on her way. Shortly afterwards, Edwin Smith found her trying to pull her apron strings tight around her neck. He untied them, then as she sat down, sent for a constable who took her away.

The Magistrates told her off for not going into the Workhouse, and then sent her straight there.

1872 – A Novel Celebration of the Recovery of the Prince of Wales

The Clergyman of Ashperton, along with villagers and school children, planted a fine speciment of Wellingtonia Gigantea, which was to be called “The Prince of Wales’ Tree on Ashperton Green”, in celebration of the recovery of the Prince of Wales. As has always been the custom in Herefordshire, the newly planted tree was drunk in old cider.

1879 – Horrible Railway Accident at Ashperton

William Parry, a man from Pontypool, was the fireman on a luggage train. As the train passed through Ashperton he climbed on top of the coal in the tender, whereupon the coal slipped and fell off onto the tracks. All the trucks went over his legs just above the knees, and the poor chap’s limbs were cut off. He was taken to Hereford Informary, where they made further amputations but he died the next morning.

1901 – Tragic Death in Fire at Ashperton

The Ledbury Fire Brigade attended a fire at Court-y-Park Farm, Ashperton, owned by W.F. Pudge, where two big French barns were ablaze. The fire was discovered at 2 in the afternoon, Jack Watkins, a four year old boy who was the son of a worker at the farm, ran to try to put out the flames in his own simple way. He tripped and fell and was immediately surrounded by flames. Mr. Buck, the estate agent tried desperately to rescue the boy, but was driven back by the intensity of the fire.

Tales of unseemliness;  singing and funerals

1855 – Discovery of Roman Remains at Aston Ingham

Workmen employed to make a drain in Coombe wood, situated on top of a hill at Aston Ingham owned by K.M. Power, found the dilapidated remains of two chests.

These two chests held a large number of old Norman coins which were in remarkably good order.

Fine examples of Romulus and Remus suckled by a wolf;  Julius Caesar;  Valerius and Constantine amongst others were revealed.

1898 Aston Ingham Farmer causes a nuisance

Joseph Aubrey, a 57 year old farmer was summoned by William Yates at Ross on Wye Petty Sessions, for making “an unseemly noise in the churchyard thereby causing annoyance to the congregation”.

It was said that Joseph Aubrey followed the complainant into the church, shouting abuse, but his defence was that he was provoked given that the complainant’s son had seduced his daughter.

Pleas for sympathy were largely ignored, and he was fined 15s.

1899 – Aston Ingham Choir

The Aston Ingham Choir journeyed to Ilfracombe on a special railway carriage, sponsored by the Vicar.

1913 – Mr. Samuel P. Jackson

The funeral took place of Samuel P. Jackson in Aston Ingham Churchyard, who died 28th April 1913 aged 78. He had been ill for some time, but was still out and about until a few days before his death.

He was well known in the district where he and his family had lived for many years, and his kind and genial manner ensured a large circle of friends. He was a familiar figure in local musical circles, and was the organist and choir master at Aston Ingham church for nearly 30 years.

1789 – Drowning in pool at Aylton

William Morris, a pauper in his forties, was found drowned in a pool at Aylton.

At the inquest no mark of violence was said to be evident, but there was also nothing to suggest how he came to be drowned.

The supposition was that he was washing his hands after cutting hop wires, and accidently fell in, after which due to age and infirmaties he was unable to get out again.

1841 – A Grand Old Age

Thomas Lewis of Aylton died on 17th August 1841 at the incredible (for the time) age of 101.

He rented the parsonage farm of Aylton for the last 63 years of his life, and was always an early riser – he continued farming until the last three years of his life.

1852 – Assault on Child at Aylton

Emma Butcher, aged 9, who lived with her father Thomas and her mother at Aylton, was at work with her mother at Mrs. Perry’s of Aylton.

Late afternoon, Emma was sent home to feed the pig and to prepare the potatoes for supper, which instructions to return to Mrs Perry’s straight afterwards.  When she had finished her chores, Emma locked the door and set out to go back to her mother, but on the way met Thomas Mutlow – a dealer in rags and songs.

Thomas asked Emma if her mother was about, and when he was told that she was not, he grabbed Emma and indecently assaulted her.  When she cried, he gave her two combs, then took them from her and gave her two songs instead.

Poor Emma struggled as much as she could, and then in a flash of inspiration told Thomas that there was a man coming through the orchard, whereupon he let her go and she ran as fast as she could in a very distressed state, until she came across her mother on her way home.  A group of men assembled and they found Thomas a short distance from the house – he admitted touching the girl, but said that he was drunk…….then he struck out at both a man and a woman with his fist.

A policeman took him to Ledbury, and when he was hauled before the bench he was fined £4 plus costs, which he was unable or refused to pay.  He was therefore sent to prison for two months.

1863 – Tragic death at Aylton

A little girl by the name of Elizabeth Preece, the daughter of a Ledbury labourer, was living with her aunt and uncle at Jacobs Leys in Aylton in order to help look after her poorly uncle.

Early one afternoon she went out to the pump in order to rinse a teapot, but she was too short to reach the handle and hand learned to climb up onto the stone trough in order to do so.  On this occasion, when she jumped back down onto the stonework on top of the well, it gave way and she dropped into the deep well which was full of water.

A short while afterwards, Elizabeth’s aunt went outside and noticed the teapot on the floor as well as the hole by the well and immediately called for help, but by the time Elizabeth was pulled out it was too late.

1867- Fatal Accident At Aylton – Drunks are not always Drunks

Charles Pritchard, a 26 year old waggoner for Johnathan Williams of Aylton, was driving a team carrying home a load of coal from Ledbury.

Near Flights Farm, it is thought that he stumbled and fell and one of the wagon wheels passed over his head, crushing it dreadfully and killing him instantly.

At the inquest, it was stated that Charles was a drunkard, and was probably drunk at the time,  and a verdict to that effect was returned.  However, it later came to light that he suffered from a severe illness, and that he often appeared to be drunk when it was far from the case.

This misconception is still common today, with people assuming the fallen on pavements are drunk, when often they are ill.

1844 – Accidental Death at Aymestrey

Samuel Hammond was a 14 year old lad who worked for Philip Turner of Aymestrey.

He was described as well behaved, and had been entrusted by Philip to roll a field of newly sown barley, using a horse to pull the roller.

Samuel was found on the road by William Stephens of Wigmore, and unfortunately he was beneath the roller and quite dead.   The horse was standing quietly.

1858 – Triplet surprise for Aymestrey Woman

The wife of Thomas Partington, Gamekeeper,  of Gatley Cottage, Aymestrey, gave birth to triplets – two boys and one girl.  They were all strong and healthy and expected to thrive.

The Partington family now includes six children all under four and a half years old.

The vicar, the Rev.  J. Rogers, and some ladies of the area kindly set about raising money for the family who found themselves with two more children than they bargained for.

1891 – Infant dies at birth at Aymestrey through lack of assistance

Lizzie Humphreys was in service at Western Lye Farm.  Her master, John Davies had heard her groaning just after midnight, and knowing that she was pregnant he dressed and went to fetch her grandmother.

The grandmother, Caroline Humphreys, went up to see Lizzie, then shortly afterwards came downstairs to say that the baby was dead.

Mr. Davies stated at the inquest that he was not aware of any preparation being made for the birth, and indeed, the grandmother was not even aware that Lizzie was pregnant.

Caroline stated that when she went upstairs and asked her granddaughter where the baby was, Lizzie said that it was under the bedclothes;  Caroline turned back the sheet and found the dead baby, then left it for the doctor’s inspection later.

Dr. Robert Williams of Kingsland said that he couldn’t say with any certainty that the child had been born alive, and that the mother had said that it didn’t cry or move after birth.  He felt that the child had died from want of proper attention at the birth and the jury returned a verdict of Death from want of assistance at birth.

1898 – The Loss of the Screw Steamer Aymestry

Yes, I know this is a tenuous link!

Messrs. Sivewright, Bacon and Co., West Hartlepool, owners of the screw steamer Aymestry which was wrecked on Farquhar Island, received a letter from Captain Crisp, dated Mauritius 14th May, saying that he and the crew of the above steamer would leave Mauritius on 19th by the Castle Liner Lismore Castle, for London.

Reports said that Aymestry was hard and fast on the rocks and “pretty well gutted”. Natives said that the crew had tried to get her off the rocks for some 15 days.

1904 – Child Assaulted at Aymestrey

John Jordan, a 46 year old thatcher, was accused of indecently assaulting Elsie Minnie Bullock, an eight year old girl, at Aymestrey.  The assault was witnessed by Arthur William Weaver, a little boy who also said that he saw Jordan give Elsie 2d.

John claimed that he was drunk at the time and was not guilty;  he then said that he didn’t remember what had happened and he was sorry.

A character witness for John said that he was a hard working man, but had one fault – having too much to drink on occasion.  He was married but separated.

Although the jury found Jordan guilty of indecent assault, they asked for mercy on account of his good character and the Judge said that the influence of drink was no excuse.  However, considering the prisoner’s good character he decided to pass a light sentence, saying that children must be protected from men like him.

He was given two months with hard labour.

1859 – Fatal Accident at Bacton

Daniel Morgan was a 45 year old married man with three children.

One day he was hauling timber in Bacton Wood with John Davies;  as they were bringing in a load of timber the horses were halted, and Daniel Morgan went to tie the wheel, and thinking that he had done so he called to John to go on.  He was knocked down and the wheel went on to his body.

John Davies quickly unhooked the horses and attached them to the back of the carriage in an effort to get the wheel off Daniel but he was unable to do it alone.  By the time that help arrived it was too late, and Daniel was dead.

1874 – Death of Rev. William Parsons Hopton

The Rev. William Parsons Hopton died on 14th April 1879.

He was born in 1802, being the son of William Hopton of Canon Frome Court and Kemerton Court and was educated at Trinity College Oxford.

He was well respected for his sound judgement and good business sense, and was a Magistrate and Deputy Lieutenant for Herefordshire. He acted as chairman of the Bromyard Board of Guardians for 40 years.

He married Diana Christian, by whom he leaves three children.

1891 – Children Suffocate at Bishops Frome

Ann and Geo. Martin, a hawker, travellers who were in Herefordshire for hop picking, and then apple picking, had two young children – George aged 3 and 9 months, and Catherine aged 2.

They were sleeping in a room at Hopton Farm, Bishops Frome, and early the next morning Ann lit a fire in the room.  At around 10 a.m., Ann left them playing whilst telling them not to touch the fire, and she secured the door with a chain so that they couldn’t get out.

Ann went to work in an orchard some 200 yards away, but returned a couple of hours later to check on the children;  she found the room full of smoke so went out and screamed for her husband who ran in and opened the window.  They both found the children close to the fire, but not burnt although the bedding and other items were alight thus causing the copious smoke.

Sadly both children were dead and at the inquest the Coroner said that death was due to gradual suffocation, accelerated by fright.  Incredibly, he merely said that it was an unfortunate accident, and that the parents were only trying to keep their children warm, but no matter what the verdict, those poor parents surely would have lived with guilt and horror for the rest of their lives.

1899 – Death by Burning at Bishops Frome

Mrs. Mayo, wife of John Mayo, left her three and a half year old son Albert Henry in bed whilst she made breakfast.  Suddenly she thought that she heard little Albert getting out of bed, and before she could move, there came a terrible scream.

She rushed upstairs along with her older son Harry, and found Albert engulfed in flames;  they quickly put them out but Albert was very badly burnt.  Mrs. Mayo put linseed oil on the burns then dressed them before racing to the Relieving Officer to obtain an order for the doctor who duly attended, but the boy died a few days later.

At the inquest, it was revealed that a lit candle had been left in Albert’s room, and although the jury returned a verdict of “Accidental Death”, they expressed a desire that the case would be a lesson to other parents never to leave young children alone with candles or lamps

1899 – Suicide at Bishops Frome

Charles Ockey, a 50 year old retired farmer, was found bleeding from the neck by a neighbour in a pigsty.

Charles was still alive, just, and held a knife in his hand;  the neighbour, Albert Hancocks ran to the telegraph office to call for Charles’  brother, John, who immediately raced to the farm.  John arranged for doctors to attend to him but by this time Charles was unconscious.

It was confirmed by witnesses that Charles was not quite the ticket, and decidedly strange at times, possibly a legacy of an accident fifteen years previously.  A verdict of “suicide during temporary insanity” was returned at the inquest.

1922 – Pig sets fire to Stackyard

A young hop picker, who was clearly of less than charming nature, whilst working at Bishops Frome threw a lighted match at a pig. The pig took flight with the match on it’s back, and on running into the farmyard set fire to a stack of hay. The flames then spread to a barn filled with ryegrass and all the produce was destroyed by the fire.

 1835 – Lightning Damage at Bishopstone

A terrific thunder storm passed over Hereford and the surrounding area, and at Bishopstone’s Nelson Inn lightning struck a poplar tree.

Then the lightning appeared to travel to a small wooden bridge which it destroyed, before entering the west gable of the house after splashing the dirt from the ditch almost to the top of the house.

Fifteen panes of a window were taken out as neatly as if by a glazier, and a china closet was demolished;  a clock door was forced open and around 86 panes of glass in windows were broken.

Fortunately, none of the six people in the house were injured, although the smell of sulphur was overpowering.

It was reported that “nothing can appear more capricious than the course of this lightning stroke, but it was no doubt subject to the laws of attraction, which will, at no distant date, be better understood”.

Yes, indeed!

1835 – Man gored by Bull at Bishopstone

Thomas Haynes, aged 43, was driving the bull to water – the animal’s normal carer being away;  he had repeatedly been asked to stop by a nearby labourer who was alarmed to see Thomas throwing stones at the bull in an effort to send it to the water.

Having achieved this end in such a risky and cruel manner, Thomas employed the same method on the return to the fold, but by this time the bull had had enough.  It turned and chased Thomas before hitting him to the ground, and then relentlessly tossing and goring him.  (I feel a little like cheering).

Eventually assistance arrived, but Thomas was very badly injured;  all his ribs were broken and his lungs were torn to shreds – he died fairly quickly.

At the inquest it was learned that the bull had attacked another man previously, and the jury considered that bulls with a temper should have their horns removed.

1847 – A fatal Attack of Flatulence at Bishopstone

Mrs Martha Barnes gave evidence at the inquest on the death of her husband John Barnes, who died rather suddenly during a night in November.

She said that he suffered from flatulence from time to time, and on this occasion he retired to his bed with the condition. Some time later, he awoke and sat up in an effort to relieve the discomfort, and when she asked him how he was he said that he would be better soon when the wind in his tummy had moved on.

He said that he was cold, so his wife put her flannel petticoat over his shoulders, and whilst doing so..”awful to relate, he fell back in the bed a corpse!”

Mrs. Barnes called for her eldest girl and her mother in law, but when they came to help they found that he was beyond aid.

He was a very worthy man and left a widow and five children.

1848 – Smallpox Outbreak at Bishopstone

Smallpox was rife in Bishopstone and the surrounding area, and many people died.

1850 – Opening of Bishopstone School

On the 15th October, the ceremony of opening the newly built school at Bishopstone took place.

The school had been funded by the Rev. R.Lane Freer for the children of his poorer parishioners.

Between 40 and 50 children gathered at the Rectory Lodge and marched from there to the new school, where they listened to speeches before being given plentiful supplies of plum cake and wine.

Later the children went out into the playground where tops, balls, skipping ropes and other toys had been laid out for their amusement.

1853 – Burning Effigy causes death at Bishopstone

Jane Thomas was a young woman of 24 who lived at Brecon with her husband, but when she became ill her doctor recommended that she “took a change of air”, so she went to visit her mother, Mrs. Challoner, in Bishopstone – she was around 6 months pregnant at the time.

Jane had been there for some three weeks, when scandal arose over her sister, Catherine Norris, and the gossips said that she was cohabiting with a man.  The neighbours made an effigy of Catherine and burnt it, creating much disturbance around the house and terrifying Jane who went into premature labour.

Eventually her child was born alive, but sadly died after about fifteen minutes;  Jane herself went rapidly downhill, and died a few days later.

It seems that the surgeon thought that Jane’s lungs were in a bad way before she left Brecon, and at the inquest the jury decided that she had died of consumption.

1858 – Schoolchildren given a grand day by Mrs. Freer of Bishopstone

The children of Bishopstone, Mansel Lacy and Yazor, nearly 200 in number, were entertained at Bishopstone by Mrs. Lane Freer, assisted by Mrs. Hall, Miss Macmichael, Mrs. Blashill and other good ladies, and also by Mr. Plant of Bishopstone Court who gave his grounds for the purpose.

In the early afternoon the children processed into the church, where they joined in chants and hymns, then they proceeded to a most glorious feast spread under some of the most magnificent lime trees in the county.

Games of all types were then played, including cricket, football, leaping rails, and kite flying. Lots of balloons were let loose, and the weather was kind.

After tea where much cake and other good things were consumed, the children went home, happy with their day.

1861 – Centenarian at Bishopstone  (the story, and then the denial)

John Price was authenticated as being born in 1755 at Michaelchurch Escley in Herefordshire,  therefore being the oldest inhabitant of the County in 1861.   With the exception of one, all of his 13 siblings also lived to advanced ages, as did his mother and wife.

When young, John joined the Herefordshire Militia, and then volunteered into the Queen’s Own Light Cavalry with whom he went to Ireland and he was engaged in the battle of Vinegar Hill.

John returned to Hereford in 1803 until he was ordered to Liverpool in 1805.  He was discharged in 1806 and was offered an appointment in Chelsea Hospital, but he declined thinking that he would be getting a pension – sadly no pension was forthcoming.

John Price, now aged over 50, returned to Herefordshire where he worked as a millwright for many years before attracting the attention of Archdeacon Freer, who took the old man under his wing and housed him in a lovely cottage at Bishopstone.

From then on, all his needs were provided by Archdeacon Freer and Mrs. Lane Freer spent many hours reading to him and generally taking care of him.  Indeed, John was so well looked after that he was able to walk the seven miles to Hereford.  Once there he had fun talking to various gentry of the city, and was quizzed by several medics who wanted to find out how he was so strong and alert at such a great age – he could even remember events of more than 100 years ago when he was only 4 years old.

Although he looked like a very old man in his face, he was “as upright as a Maypole”, his eyesight was excellent and he could perform all ordinary day to day acts with no assistance.

Perhaps it was his enjoyment of a tipple – John Barleycorn or gin or brandy with water – although he never touched cider, and never overindulged.

The indignant denial of the truth of this story –

Almost immediately after this tale was published, an anonymous “corrector” wrote to the paper refuting the whole thing.

He claimed that John Price was not even 90 years old, and did not enjoy the protection of Archdeacon Freer;  he said that in fact he received four shillings a week relief money from the parish of Dorstone.

He said that “this wonderful old man” had never in fact been a soldier, and that his birth was not registered at Michaelchurch Escley.

So what is true?  Why on earth would anyone make up the story which gives such detail.

Then again, why would anyone want to discredit the whole thing?

1863 – Death of the Ven. Richard Lane Freer of Bishopstone

The Ven. Richard Lane Freer D.D, Archdeacon of Hereford was also Rector of Bishopstone-cum-Yazor, and had been ill for some time with cancer of the stomach. Whilst staying in Dover his condition deteriorated but he recovered sufficiently to be moved to Malvern. At his own request, he was moved home to the Rectory in Bishopstone were “amid weeping relatives and friends he calmly yielded up his life”. He was 58

Two days earlier, knowing that he was dying, he asked to be taken around the area surrounding Bishopstone, then calmly gave detailed instructions as to his funeral which he wanted to be private and unostentatious.

The coffin was to be made by a Bishopstone village artisan, and his grave was to be in the pretty Bishopstone churchyard of which he and his wife had cared for so well, and near to the walls of the old church which he had so carefully restored.

Richard Freer had been a well respected Mason in Herefordshire, and at his funeral the Lodges of Palladian and Royal Edward appeared at the entrance to the churchyard, before filing off to the right and left in order to receive the coffin into their midst.

1863 – Opening of the first instalment of the Hereford,Hay and Brecon Railway

The line was opened without ceremony, and as guests arrived at the temporary station at Moorfields to catch the 7.30 a.m. train to Eardisley, they were delighted by the decorations on the engine, the “Alexandra” which was of considerable size and power. Wreaths of flowers were strewn over the engine, and flags were gaily adorning each side of the boiler.

There were nine carriages, but because the day was also the day that Hereford Cathedral re-opened there were few passengers. As they set off, a number of fog signals were exploded, and at Credenhill the station was decorated with flags. From the top of the Rectory at Bishopstone there was a large banner proudly floating, and arches of evergreens and flowers spanned the line at Norton Canon, with the word “Welcome” being spelled out.

The train was perfectly on time, and fares were moderate.

1867 – Runaway Horse wrecks Gig

A horse pulling a small gig belonging to Mr. Hart of the Marsh, Bishopstone, bolted in Hereford. It flew up Commercial Road, then “kicked viciously” breaking the splinter bar and destroying the vehicle.

Mr. Hart was thrown from the gig but was not seriously hurt apart from a few scratches, and the horse was successfully brought to a halt without injury.

1910 – Fatal Accident at Bishopstone

Mr. William Davies of Hill Cottage, Bishopstone, was a 72 year old labourer.

Tragically he drowned in just seven inches of water in a butt, and it was assumed that as he had suffered from fainting fits, he must have fallen in whilst fixing spouting.

1828 – The Illegal Practice of Riding on Wagon Shafts

Coroners and Magistrates were becoming frustrated by the number of cases of wagoners riding illegally on the shafts of their carts and wagons.

In one instance on a Friday evening in October 1828, Thomas Williams, a lad who was servant to J. Matthews of Blakemere, was riding on the shafts of his wagon when the horse became frightened by another cart (the driver of which was also riding illegally) – the horse bolted, causing Thomas to fall off and the wheel of the wagon ran over his head fracturing his skull.

Despite the attentions of both J. Matthews and a surgeon, Thomas died the next day.

The paper made the comment that they hoped measures would be taken to stop this dangerous and lazy practice – something that was very common in Herefordshire.  They said that the law already allowed for severe punishment, but that it was not enforced enough.

1843 – Funeral of Odd Fellow at Blakemere

Brother John Jones, a member of the Loyal Hardwick Lodge, Dorstone, was buried in Blakemere Churchyard.  Members of the lodge wore silk scarves and white gloves, and the oration was read by P.P.G.M. Gwynne of Hay on Wye.

John Jones left a widow and one child, but because he had only just joined the Odd Fellows Lodge, the rules stated that he was not entitled to any benefit from them;  however, the brothers of the Loyal Hardwick Lodge paid for the funeral.

1844 – Massive Turnip in Blakemere

Growing on the farm of John Matthews in Blakemere in August 1844, was a turnip of vast proportions – it was measured at sixteen inches in circumference.

1855 – Death from Exposure at Blakemere

William Knight was a 53 year old single man who worked as a haulier.

He used donkeys to pull his carriage, and early one Tuesday morning the donkeys were spotted standing in the road, with William Knight lying on top of the timber on the carriage.

Allen Watkins, working for J. Bennett of Church Farm, Tiberton, rushed over with brandy and water, but unfortunately William was too far gone to drink, and although he was taken to Mr. Bennett’s he was found to have died on the way.

Detective work ascertained that William had been out all night in pouring rain, as the ruts from his carriage were full of water, and the donkeys had eaten all the grass within reach.  Poor William was wet to the skin, and he was frozen.

Verdict at the inquest was Died from Exposure to Cold.

1857 – Blakemere Policeman Neglects his Duty

George Davies, the parish Constable for Blakemere was charged by Superintendent Wilson with neglect of duty.

It seems that on 30th October, George Davies was given custody of two men who were charged with stealing potatoes, and also a chicken.  George held the men from late morning until about eleven at night, and then let them go without either charging them or making any report of the case.

He was ordered to pay costs of 13s 6d.

1862 – Rampaging Bull Attacks Man at Blakemere

A very cross bull went on the rampage in Blakemere in late April 1862 – it first attacked Mr. Bennett of Huntley Court, who managed to throw himself clear and suffered only a few bruises.

Charles Pugh however was not so lucky.  Charles worked for Mr. Ambrey of Lower Blakemere, and unfortunately found himself in the path of the maddened bull, which charged at him and gored him in the stomach.

He lay in agony for some time before he was found, and although the surgeon, J.C. Lane, was quick to answer the summons he could do little for him other than to move him to the Infirmary to make him more comfortable.

The bull was destroyed.

1867 – Fatal Fall from a Gate at Blakemere

John Parton was a 40 year old married man, who had been washing sheep for Mr. Hall of Kinley in the parish of Blakemere.

He left work in the evening at around 10.30 and on his way home went to let the lambs out of their fold so that they could join the ewes in the field, however when climbing over the gate he fell and landed on his back in the road.

John’s wife was waiting at home for him, but when he had failed to come back by 2 in the morning, she went out to search for him and found him in the road, unable to move.

He was eventually taken home, but was very cold and still unable to move so the surgeon P.B. Giles was sent for, but to no avail, and John died shortly aferwards of injury to his spine.

1844 – Disgraceful Conduct in the Bodenham Wesleyan Chapel

During a Sunday evening service, some “ignorant or wanton” person outside, broke the window behind the minister causing some considerable mayhem.

The minister was hit on the head by flying glass, and some women near to the pulpit were also struck, although fortunately they had their backs to the window at the time.

If the culprits were caught, they would be served a penalty of £40, a huge amount in those days, or if they could not pay, a long term of imprisonment.

1844 – Accidental Drowing at Bodenham

Thomas Norgrove fell into the river Lugg near to Bodenham Church and drowned.

1859 – Christmas Cheer at Butchers in Bodenham

According to the Hereford Times:

“Messrs. Daniel and Walker, Butchers of Bodenham, who have for several years past at the festive season of Christmas, spared no pains in providing an abundant supply of the good things of this life, have again this year displayed such a show of meat which makes no mean appearance in any town in the kingdom. In the shop of Mr. Walker were one excellent cow, weighting 11 stone per quarter, fed by Mr. Hodges of Amberly; a splendid four year old heifer fed by Mr. Hayes of Burghope; four fine sheep and two wethers, fed by Mr. George Powell; two ewes fed by Mr. Jones of Rowberry and Mr. Rudge of Marden, and a prime porker.

In the shop of Mr. Daniel was a splendid cow weighing 18 stone per quarter fed by Mr. Jones of Rowberry Farm, Bodenham; two very fine sheep, a very large bacon and a first rate porker.

1863 – Opening of new School at Bodenham

On 14th July 1863, the village rejoiced as the new school was opened and were full of hope for the future of their children, summed up as follows:

“Now he is nothing more than a lad with unkempt  locks, clumsy gait and ignorant look, and yet some day the fire of intense intelligence may be seen in his eye;  his words of eloquence burst forth like the water of a copious fountain, and he add honour to the village that saw his birth, and the school where he first started in the pathway of learning”.

The Earlier School at Bodenham

30 years earlier, John Arkwright had donated the Warehouse, the house near the bridge over the Lugg, rent free for a school room, and it was a huge improvement on what went before.  However, the building was so close to the river that it was always cold and damp;  in fact in 1852 the floods invaded the school room and water was several feet deep.

It was also considered that the school room was not large enough and the Vicar, the Rev. H. Arkwright vowed to create a bigger and better school.  Although he donated the land, the villagers were initially a little backward in trying to raise funds for the building work, but Bazaars and donations by the landowners soon raised enough money to enable work to be carried out.

The new School takes Shape

The architect was F. Kempson of Hereford, and Mr. Mason of Hereford was the builder;  the schoolroom had a fine open timber roof with a lovely window and a bell turret.

The doors and benches were made of varnished red pine, and there were two large fire places with huge stone mantelpieces.

The whole building was declared to be beautiful.

1899 – Suicide of a Tailor at Bodenham

John Weaver, a Tailor from Bodenham, had become very depressed about ongoing ill health, and was found floating in the River Lugg having apparently decided to end his life.

John had no children, but left a wife.

1903 – Tragic Drowning of Child at Bodenham

Thomas Allright Went was nearly 5 and was the son of John William Went a Blacksmith of Bodenham.

On 27th August, Thomas was playing with other children and his elder brother on a plank bridge over the river, when he slipped and fell in.  The children raced to get help, but the body was not found until the following Monday.

1844 – Gunpowder Accident at Bosbury

William Hill was working at the Broad Oak Quarry in Bosbury, his job being to blast the stone.

One morning William made a deep hole in the bed of the stone, and put in a quantity of gunpowder as usual.  As he started to ram the gunpowder into the hole, his steel ramrod broke in two with one part staying in the hole – William yanked the broken rod out, but unfortunately this action caused a spark and the gunpowder immediately exploded.

Poor William was thrown several yards, and he suffered a broken arm and a badly cut face.  He was pretty lucky to get away with relatively minor injuries, but his wife probably had nightmares for weeks as she was standing watching!

1863 – Consequences of driving whilst under the influence!

Mr. Fincher, a former of Little Catley, Bosbury, was on his way home from Ledbury Fair with his horse and trap, along with some friends.

Mr. Fincher and two of his friends kindly got down from the trap to help the horse go up Stanley Hill, but George Cole of Froomes Hill and Eliza Jones stayed in the trap, with Eliza holding the reins. George Cole was somewhat drunk, and declared that he would take over the reins once they got to the top of the hill, but then not waiting for the men on foot to catch up, he set off at some speed.

The horse and trap made it around one or two of the narrow bends, but finally the trap turned over, with George Cole and Eliza Jones underneath. They remained here for some considerable time, having left the others way behind, but eventually Eliza’s yells for help attracted the attention of Mr. Chad, a nearby cottager, and his daughter. Mr. Fincher and co. finally arrived too, and they all managed to get the trap off the unfortunate pair.

Eliza was badly bruised, and her forehead had been pressed so hard to the ground that several pebbles had to be removed. George Cole was badly cut to the head, and he was unconscious – some time later he was still very ill.

The horse was fine, which is more than could be said for the trap.

1863 – Foundation Stone laid for Wesleyan Chapel

The foundation stone for this edifice was laid by Frederick Orme Esq. of Manchester, after which the Rev. John Saunders of Worcester preached a sermon.

1863 Infestation of Fowl Thieves at Bosbury

For three months, a gang of thieves stole a great many geese, ducks and chickens from many of the wives of the farmers in the area.

Mr. Gardiner of the Paddels lost a quantity of chickens one night, and a determined investigation traced the trail of the thieves to Defford station near Pershore, Worcestershire, from where there was little doubt that they took a train to Birmingham.

Mr. John Andrews of Catley Cross lost nearly thirty very fine fowls, and footmarks were traced to a cottage in Cradley, where the occupants were under great suspicion. When the premises were entered however, nothing was found to connect the occupants with the thefts, although police were puzzled by the fact that the principal occupier had slippers on and could not tell them where his boots were.

Later, it was found that a horse and cart passed through Cradley Gate at 5 in the morning of this latest robbery, and continued in the direction of Worcester. It was thought that a local, or someone with local knowledge, was in league with dishonest poulterers in Birmingham, and all farmers in the neighbourhoold vowed to keep due vigilance to prevent any more thefts, or indeed, to catch the culprits.

1867 – School Treat at Bosbury

The children of Bosbury School had their annual treat arranged but as the weather was poor they had tea in the girls’ school, with a speech by the Vicar, the Rev. J.E. Cheese.

Prizes were given out, provided by the vicar, and the tea was provided by the joint kindnes of Mr. Cheese and Mrs Higgins of Bosbury House.

After tea, the girls went to the boys’ school to watch the magic lantern which they all absolutely loved.

1867 – Hurricane at Bosbury

For two hours one Sunday morning, Bosbury endured a violent storm, which came from the east then turned within the village to NNW. Trees came down and roofs were blown off. Sheep were killed by falling trees; a chimney was blown down destroying the rest of the roof.

Strangely, in the north and north eastern parts of the village, nobody was aware of the storm at all.

1867 – Dreadful Fire at Upleadon Court, Bosbury

Early one Monday evening, a fire broke out on the farm of Mr. Shayle, about 300 yards from the house where there were sheds and stalls, and a large ban.

A servant boy at the house told his mistress that there was a light in the barn, but when Mrs. Shayle investigated she found the barn on fire. They released a pony from the stable, and opened the fold gates to let the stock out away from danger.

The boy was sent to Ledbury for the fire engines, whilst Mrs. Shayle desperately summoned neighbours for help. The barn fire took hold, and a bay of barley and hay were consumed, along with a bean rick. A hay rick was saved by a man named Daniells who covered it with kiln and cider hairs, then held them down to keep the flames from reaching the hay – in doing so his own clothes caught fire.

Ledbury fire brigade arrived at full pelt, although given how long it must have taken the lad to ride to Ledbury, and for the engines to be hitched to teams and then driven to Bosbury, some considerable time must have elapsed….however they managed to save the sheds.

Mr. Shayle lost between £200 and £300 – a fortune for the time, and sadly it was the same old story, he was not insured.

The fire was deemed to have been started deliberately

1870 – Disastrous Fire at The Bells Public House, Bosbury

A fire was discovered in the early hours of the morning at The Bells pub, run by Mr. John Shaw.

It started in the outbuildings – a shed; drinkhouse; stable and brewhouse – and as these buildings were all thatched and very old they were soon destroyed with the fire spreading rapidly. Very sadly, there were animal fatalities.

The Pub soon caught fire too, and the flames spread alarmingly quickly, with everything being completely destroyed. On either side of the pub were cottages, one belonging to the poor of Bosbury and the other to John Wentlow of Alder End who was also the owner of The Bells. Both dwellings would have gone the same way as the pub had the Ledbury fire engines not arrived in the nick of time.

Villagers helped, and there was plenty of water available from the brook running alongside.

The fire was thought to have started after hot ashes were thrown onto a heap near dry wood; neither the pub nor the contents were insured.

1876 – Fire at Bosbury Church

Late afternoon on a Sunday, a horseman clattered at speed into Ledbury, shouting that Bosbury Church was on fire. Two fire engines were rapidly horsed, and set off on the four mile journey to Bosbury.

The fire started in the roof of the church, and when flames were seen shooting out the alarm was given, and with the help of ladders, Mr. Townsend, Mr. James Townsend, P.C. Macdonald and others went up onto the roof to remove the tiles around the flames. Many people were procuring water, which was put in large tubs around the church, and from these a constant supply of water was passed to those on the roof to throw on the fire, which by this time was burning fiercely due to all the wood.

The heroism of those involved, especially on the dangerous roof, and also the determination of those who kept the water coming, undoubtedly saved the church. The fire engines duly arrived, but by then the fire was all but out, and in any case, they would not have been much use as the roof was too high for their equipment.

The resulting damage was confined to about ten yards of the western part of the roof, and as all doors had been closed, nothing inside sustained damage.

It was thought that the fire started in the dodgy flue above the stove, which went through the roof, and that a spark escaped and ignited the woodwork.

1896 – Savage Assault by Gipsies at Bosbury

William Hyde aged 20 was charged at Ledbury Petty Sessions with assaulting Henry Edwin Bramley who lived at the Bell Inn, Bosbury with Mr. and Mrs. Lewis the landlord and landlady.

On 27th August, Mr. Lewis was away, and Henry and Mrs. Lewis were at the Inn when William Hyde along with five other men drove into the village in a gipsy’s cart. Some of them were drunk, and when they came into the bar of the Bell Inn, asking for beer, Henry Bramley refused to serve them. They left and went to another pub, but returned and once again asked for beer.

When they were once more refused, the gipsies became abusive and started breaking up the place, before beating up both Henry and Mrs. Lewis.

The prisoner was sent to gaol for one month’s hard labour.

1916 – Sad Death of Famous Bosbury Donkey

The famous Bosbury Donkey, owned by Mr. E.T. Lane, which was the means of raising over £3000 for the Red Cross, died and was much mourned by the Red Cross promoters.

The donkey was first famous at the Ledbury Red Cross Sales, and thereafter was often seen in the streets around the county and beyond, it’s cart decorated with coloured ribbons; it was due to appear at a second series of Red Cross Sales at Ross on Wye.

1789 – A Suicide at Brampton Abbotts

A Carpenter was discovered hanging from a tree in an orchard at Brampton Abbotts – he had been rather depressed for some time, so the jury at the inquest gave their usual verdict for the age…….Lunacy.

1844 – Tragic Drowning of Boy at Brampton Abbotts

A six year old boy by the name of George Shaw fell into the River Wye whilst playing on the bank with friends.

He drowned before anyone could help him.

1849 – Brutal Assault on Orphan Boy

David Powell, a farm labourer, was charged with having assaulted a 9 year old orphan boy whose resulting injuries made him unable to walk or stand.

The little lad had been employed by Mr. Burgum to watch his pigs one afternoon, and as he played with some straw by the barn David Powell became annoyed by the harmless actions.  He lifted the lad up by his ears and threw him over a board across the doorway.  Then he picked him up by one leg and arm and tossed him into the fold, where the poor lad fell on stones on his back.

The boy tried to get away, but was caught by Powell again and again.

When eventually he escaped and went home, he went to bed and was unable to rise again.  The surgeon kept going to see him, and told the court that the condition was getting worse rather than better.

David Powel was remanded in custody, but was later bailed out.

1851 – Cruelty to Horse at Brampton Abbotts

The details of this are too upsetting to be honest, but suffice it to say that Samuel Price of Brampton Abbots, employed at the time by James Barrett of the Royal Hotel, at his farm at Brampton,  mistreated an old horse so badly with a whip that it died.

Witnesses, and those who examined the dead horse, were in no doubt of the brutal attack, but Samuel Price claimed that it “would be a poor job if waggoners were not allowed to exercise a moderate punishment when their horses required it”.

The Bench eventually decided on a fine of £2 and Price was given a week to pay.

Just to take the nasty taste of this case away, I noticed on the same page that a chap was fined quite heavily for allowing his stallion to expose itself at the Ross Wool Fair!!  Deary me, how on earth do you prevent such a thing, or even rectify it once it has happened……my husband helpfully suggested a cricket bat.

1879 – Man fined for being Drunk on the Road at Brampton Abbotts

Arthur Chamberlain, a labourer from Upton Bishop, pleaded guilty in court to being drunk on the highway at Brampton Abbotts.  He was fined 5s plus 9s costs.

1898 – Fatality on Railway Line

Thomas Magness was an 82 year old widower of Brampton Abbotts, who was last seen alive one Saturday afternoon.  When he failed to return home a search party set out, and his body was found on the railway line the next morning.

The poor chap was horribly mutilated, his arms, head and legs all having been cut off and strewn for several yards along the track, and the unpleasant task of gathering up his remains and putting them in a box was left to P.C. Barnett and P.C. Tuckett.

It was assumed that the old man was trying to get home by walking along the line when he was knocked down by the passenger train heading for Gloucester, and that since then several trains must have passed over the body.

1904 – Tragic Death of Rector of Brampton Abbotts

The Rev. H. St. Helier Evans, 47, Rector of Brampton Abbotts , died whilst saving the lives of two children in the River Wye.

He was born in Birmingham and was the son of a Barrister.  On the afternoon in question he had been swimming in the river near Backney Bridge with his children;  he was a very good swimmer but had not bathed in the River Wye before – the only reason that he went in this time was to give a swimming lesson to his 13 year old daughter Miriam;  her friend Katharine Malton  also 13; another daughter and his son Martin aged 8.

After about five minutes, Katharine Malton found herself in deep water along with Martin who became caught in a current.  The Rev. gentleman quickly waded out and managed to catch both children,  then struggled back to the bank, placing his son on a rock before handing Katharine to his daughter Miriam who got her to safety.

When Miriam looked back at his father, she saw that he had gone under the water, and she and her sister managed to wade out to him and drag him back to some shingle where he lay unconscious.

Young Martin was sent for help whilst the three girls desperately tried to rub life back into the body, but when aid arrived, despite artificial respiration being carried out for nearly an hour,  it had to be declared that life was extinct.

At the inquest it was heard that Dr. Cutfield thought that the excitement of saving the children and the exhaustion of doing so brought on an attack of syncope.

1847 – Fatal Gun Accident at Brampton Bryan

An inquest was held at the Oxford Arms, Brampton Bryan on the body of William Hatfield.

William had been working as a groom in the service of the Rev. Mr. Murray, and may witnesses claimed that for some considerable time he had been very depressed, but nobody was actually a witness to the supposed accident.

William had borrowed a gun saying that he wanted to shoot sparrows (why would one want to shoot sparrows?), and when he was found and then examined by the surgeon, James Williams, “his head was literally blown to atoms and his brains scattered about”.

The surgeon decided that the position of the body and that of the gun showed the shooting to be quite accidental, and the jury returned a verdict accordingly.

1847 – Accidental Death at Brampton Bryan

George Bailey, a 70 year old man with five children, was working for the Earl of Oxford.

On the day of the accident, George was working in Pedwardine Wood along with two other men, loading faggots on to a wagon.  Something startled the horses, and George fell off the wagon under the wheels which went over him and killed him outright.

1848 – Death by Flatulence

Ann Black, the housekeeper for Mr. Marston of Brampton Bryan, died suddenly.

At the inquest the jury were told that she had constantly suffered from flatulence and was frequently “much swollen”.

The verdict was Natural Death.

1860 – Death of man who fell on Hoe at Brampton Bryan Fair

Richard Owen, a 65 year old labourer died in the Union Workhouse a few days after an accident at Brampton Bryan fair.

Richard had gone to the fair looking for employment in turnip hoeing, but late in the evening he had a fall and the point of the turnip hoe he was holding punctured his hip.

T. Jackson, a surgeon of Leintwardine, was called to attend him and he gave instructions for Richard to be moved to the Workhouse as he was suffering from exhaustion through loss of blood.

Richard remained alive for a while, during which time he told the Governor of the workhouse that his accident was the fault of the policeman on duty at the fair.  He said that he was sitting in the Blacksmith’s penthouse when the policeman grabbed him and threw him into the road, where he sustained the injury.

When he died of his injuries, an enquiry was held but no evidence was found to support the allegations against the policeman, and the jury returned a verdict of accidental death.

1867 – Horrible Death at Brampton Bryan

William Price aged 51 and a married man, was employed as a labourer for John Cooke of Brampton Bryan, and was working on a steam thrashing machine to thrash out peas.

William was wearing gloves, and one of them became caught in the machinery which immediately dragged in his arm which was mangled all the way up to his shoulder.  Then his head hit the drum of the machine and his skull fractured.

A surgeon, Mr. Scott of Knighton, was hastily called, but William died shortly afterwards.

William had been a member of the George and Dragon Friendly Society, Knighton, and his friends there wanted to pay for the funeral, but John Cooke paid for everything himself, and told William’s widow to keep the club’s money to help herself and her children make ends meet.

1819 – Terrible Fire at Breinton

During one Sunday evening in October 1819, a fire broke out in the flue of an oven on the premises of a poor old carpenter at Breinton;  he also acted as constable for the village.

The fire was so intense that in no time at all it had destroyed two tenements belonging to John Preece – one was the the old carpenter’s lodging where he lived with his wife, and the other was inhabited by his son with a pregnant wife and seven children.  Also consumed by the fire was a barn full of grain and hay;  a stable;  cider mill and other buildings.

Thankfully these people were all saved, although it was touch and go, but all their possessions and furniture were destroyed – anything that was left was shamefully looted by low life who were pretending to help.

An appeal went out from The Rev. Taylor of Hereford, and William Waring of Upper Breinton, for charitable donations of any sort.

1845 – Death from Drunkenness at Breinton

Edward Mitchell, the landlord of the Coach and Horses pub at Breinton, went to Hereford one Friday evening after Christmas, and became extremely drunk.

He was taken home in a fly, and put to bed by his wife and a servant, but some time during the night he got himself up.  Still being dreadfully unsteady on his feet, he fell down the stairs and cracked his head on the stone floor.

Help was called for, but it was too late and Edward died almost instantly.

1850 – Woman Scuffles with Father in Law at Breinton

Mrs. Vale of Breinton took her father in law to court, accusing him of assaulting her.

She said that her father in law had been trying to break up her marriage, and that he went to her house to ask her to give up some of her furniture.  She declined to do this, and a row commenced – the father in law started to throw apples at her through the window which eventually broke.

The quarrel continued, and when Mrs. Vale went outside, her father in law hit her several times.  Witnesses said that they saw the incident, and the defendant admitted having hit Mrs. Vale, but said that it was in self defence as she had been “pitching in to him right and left”.

Mrs. Vale’s husband was in court and he rather took his father’s side, which led to some heated arguing for almost an hour.  Eventually the Bench had heard enough, and decided that both parties were at fault.

The defendant was giving a trifling fine, plus expenses.

1862 – Man dies in Cart Accident at Breinton

Thomas Preece of Burcott Row was employed by Mr. Lewis of Breinton.

One Wednesday afternoon in June 1862, he was spotted on his horse and cart, galloping at full tilt along the Breinton road.  He was thrown from the cart, and so badly injured that he died soon afterwards.

1846 – Never Play with Guns

A Kitchenmaid working for Mr. Snead, a farmer of Bridge Sollars, and a servant lad were chasing each other round the table. He, knowing that it would frighten her, pointed a gun that he thought was unloaded.

Unfortunately the gun slipped from his grasp onto the table and went off, discharging bird shot into the face of the poor girl. Her mouth and tongue were badly damaged, and she was was totally blinded.

1867 – Burglary at Bridge Sollars

Thomas Pitt, a baker aged 17, pleaded guilty to the charge of breaking into William Taylor’s house at Bridge Sollars, and stealing one silk handkerchief and one pair of boots.

He was sentenced to six months hard labour

1867 – Shepherd Drowns in River Wye at Bridge Sollars

William Large aged 31, was washing sheep belonging to Mr. Hart of Marsh Farm, Bridge Sollars, along with other men – they were all up to their knees in the water.

William could not swim but didn’t refuse to go in the water, and even when he lost his footing in deeper water he didn’t cry out for help so nobody went to help him until it was far too late; in fact it was a full half hour before his body was recovered.

Nobody was drunk, and the site was the usual place for sheep washing.

1886 – Three Children Drown in River Wye

Three children of the Rev. Mr. Lucas, curate in charge of Madley, lost their lives during floods, with their governess Miss Wilkinson escaping by the skin of her teeth.

Harriet aged 12, Roger aged 10 Maud aged 9 and one other little girl, heard of the flooding whilst playing in the nursery, and begged to be allowed to go to see the swollen river. The Governess agreed and set out with four children to the river, along with a dog, and on arriving near to the river they encouraged the dog to go in for a swim.

They all gathered on the brink of an overhanging bit of bank, when suddenly the bank gave way and three of the children plus Miss Wilkinson plunged into the flood. The governess was carried some way in the torrent but managed to grab hold of a bush, whilst Maud was carried straight into the middle of the river and never rose up to the surface. The eldest girl and boy were caught in the eddies of the torrent, but although the governess managed to grab the boy’s clothes, the strength of the current tore him from her grasp.

Miss Wilkinson eventually managed to get herself out of the water, whilst the little girl who didn’t fall in became hysterical. Miss Wilkinson ran towards the house of Mr. Large screaming and shouting, and he and other villagers ran to the river but all they could do was recover the bodies of Roger and Harriet by means of a pole. A Ferry was procured to search for the last child, Maud, and places down as far as Hereford were put on alert to look out for her – her body was recovered a few days later some miles down the river.

1896 – The Opening of the New Bridge over the River Wye at Bridge Sollars

In August 1896 the new bridge, situated just below the old ford, was opened amid great rejoicings.

The bridge was constructed with three spans of lattice girder, with a total cost of £3,600.

The Rev. G.H. Davenport made a generous donation of £1000 as well as providing the stone for the abutments.

Mrs. Davenport performed the opening ceremony and declared the bridge “open and toll free to the use of the public forever” ;  she received a silver bolt as a memento.

1899 – Wife Runs off with the Lodger at Bridge Sollars

Joseph Cox, a middle aged labourer from Bridge Sollars turned up at the Weobley Police Court asking the advice of the Bench re his marital problems.

Joseph and his wife had been married for 13 years and they had five children, the last being just six months old.  She upped and left with the lodger who was from Kington, and had been with them all winter, taking all Joseph’s wages and other things from the house.

The Chairman of the Bench asked Joseph what they expected them to do about it, and he said that he wanted an application to bring her back and then keep her at home.

The Magistrates Clerk told him that if they granted him  a warrant to apprehend his wife, he would have to prosecute and Joseph said that he would be prepared to do that, however the Court were less than convinced that there was any point in proceeding as there was no clear evidence that the wife had indeed run off with the lodger.

Poor Joseph was told to just go home and wait for a while to see what happened,  and do his best to get her back without prosecuting her.

1900 – Heroic Rescue at Bridge Sollars

The daughter of Mrs. Havard of the Folly at Byford was married to a soldier who had been ordered to South Africa, so she left her home in Ireland with her two children, one a baby, to stay with her mother.

On the Saturday night she stayed at The Nelson Inn, Bridge Sollars with the landlord, Mr. Bywater, engaged to drive her to The Folly the next morning.  However the river was flooded, so they had to use the bridge at Bridge Sollars and go by way of Preston Church.

Unfortunately the road here was flooded too, and Mr. Bywater somehow ended up being thrown out of the trap into the water;  although he was uninjured the pony bolted with the woman and her two children still in the trap – being closely followed on horseback by J.T. Davis of Preston Court.

The poor woman realised that the pony in its panic was about to dash into the river, so she threw both of her children out of the trap before jumping clear herself……however the baby’s clothing became tangled in the wheel of the trap and the child was dragged into the water.

There was no doubt that this baby would have drowned had it not been for the actions of the above mentioned Mr. Davis, who threw himself off his horse and rushed into the swollen river to grab the child, although sadly the pony drowned and the trap containing all of the lady’s belongings was swept away.

1893 – Death of Lieutenant-Colonel C.W. Whinfield

Lieutenant-Colonel Charles William Whinfield of the Royal Engineers, died after a long illness at the age of 53 at his home – Wyeville, Bridstow.

He was born on 23rd May 1840 and his first appointment in the army was 21st December 1859. He was appointed Captain of the Royal Engineers on 3rd August 1872 and was promoted to Major in the year 1881. He retired as Hon. Lieutenant-Colonel in 1883.

He was very respected by all who knew him; he was a staunch Conservative and Churchman, and left a widow, three daughters and one son – Lieutenant H.C. Whinfield of the Queen’s Foot, who had just returned to Malta after being at home with his father for some time.

Lieutenant-Colonel Whinfield was buried at Bridstow Church

1894 – Man found in River Wye

The body of Richard Voyce of Buckcastle, Bridstow, a labourer aged 50, was found in the River Wye near Ross on Wye.

He was a widower, and had lost his job of 12 months with the Rev. W.J. Sawyer of Woodlands, Bristow. He disappeared, and although every effort was made to trace him, when his body was eventually found it was in a very decomposed state.

1894 – Schoolboy thief sent to Workhouse

William Hatton aged just 8, of Bridstow, was charged with stealing part of a wooden fence belonging to Mr. C. Lee Campbell of Glewstone Court.

This was the lad’s second offence, the first being the theft of a walking stick belonging to Mr. Campbell’s bailiff.

The Chairman of the Petty Sessions remanded William to the Workhouse for seven days, and enquiries were to be made for getting him into an industrial school.

1895 – Suspected Suicide of Farmer

John Lloyd, a 52 year old farmer from Gosbrook, Bridstow, set out to milk his cows one Monday morning, taking his single barrel, muzzle loading gun with him.

At 7.30 his wife heard the sound of a shot, and his son went out to investigate – he found his father sitting upright with the butt of the gun at his feet and the muzzle towards his face, most of which had been blown away.

Poor old John had been very depressed following an illness.

1898 – Outbreak of Diptheria at Bridstow

Many cases of diptheria at both Bridstow and nearby Wilton forced schools to close, with both children and teachers becoming ill.

Flu was also rampant, especially amongst the children.

1846 – Child Burns to Death at Brilley

Mary Ann Powell, aged 7 was another “victim of the too common and reprehensible practice of leaving children where there was fire without a competent protector to take charge of them”

Mary was left at home with her brothers and sisters, and as they played, her clothes caught fire.  A nearby labourer heard screams and ran to the house, but he was too late to do anything as the flames had burnt all the clothes from the poor girl’s body.  She died a few hours later.

1848 – Murder at Brilley

Thomas Whitford lived at Brilley with his wife Elizabeth;  they had no children but had cousins living in neighbouring villages.

Mary Price, a cousin of Thomas, said that they were “comfortable” together, but that Thomas could be a little odd.  One morning, Mary called on them, and the door was answered by Thomas, who declared that his wife Elizabeth (known as Betty) was dead in bed and that he had lost the key to open the door.

The Body is revealed

The cousin Mary, ran off for help and when she returned with reinforcements, the door was open – Betty was lying on the kitchen floor, with her head bashed in, and was naked except for a small bit of cloth round her middle.  There was blood all around her body, and there were bits of bloodied broken ladder by the body.

Thomas Whitford Admits Murder

James Bromage, the village constable, turned up to take Thomas into custody – Thomas admitted to killing his wife, and said that he was fulfilling the scriptures;  he then said that he had no idea it was his wife that he had been fighting with, he thought that it was the great goddess Diana, “the queen of the whores of the bottomless pit”.

Post Mortem on Elizabeth Whitford

The post mortem revealed that Betty’s frontal skull bone was shattered, with all of the bones of the face and jaw also fractured.  The left temple bone was broken to the occipital bone, and parts of the scalp were so badly lacerated that they were detached.  Portions of the brain were scattered over the floor, along with bits of the skull.  Five of her ribs were broken, along with her left bladebone.

It was the surgeon’s opinion that the death of Betty was caused by injuries received to her head.  (Stating the obvious!).  But he was doubtful that mere wood alone could have caused such damage.

The Verdict

The jury were asked to ignore the state of mind that Thomas was in, and they returned a verdict of Wilful Murder whilst not in his proper senses.

1862 – Alleged Infanticide at Brilley

The village of Brilley was alight with gossip when they heard about a newborn child being found in a loo at Brilley Court.

Mary Ann Williams

Mary Ann Williams was a servant at Brilley Court, and for a while many had suspected her of being pregnant;  she was discovered in bed one day, and when asked what was wrong she said that she had taken too many tablets that her mother had sent for her.  She as challenged about being pregnant, but denied it.

Mary Ann Williams was confronted, but she still denied having been pregnant or having given birth, despite the fact that her bed at Brilley Court was covered in blood, including a baby shaped patch to one side.

Also, Mary Ann had complained of a pain in her bowels,  and Mary Abbott had given her brandy and then later, some breakfast.  In the early hours of the following morning, Mary Ann asked for the key to the store room – she was carrying something under her arm which was concealed by a shawl, and from the store room there was a way through to the water closet where the child was found.

A couple of days later, acting on information received from Mary Higgins and Mary Abbott, P.C. Lewis from Eardisley and Sergt. Davis went to Brilley Court and inspected one of the water closets…..the drop to the sewer beneath was some 15 feet, so P.C. Lewis was lowered down by rope.  He discovered the body of the newborn child at the bottom.

The Post Mortem

A post mortem revealed that the baby was full term, and had a skull fracture, most probably caused by the fall to the sewer.  The baby had breathed at birth, but had had no food.

The Verdict

Despite further evidence, both Mary and her mother continued to deny that she had given birth, saying that the blood on the bed was “the usual”, and the jury returned a verdict of Found Dead.  Mary Ann however, was detained in custody.

When she again came before the court, she pleaded guilty to concealing the birth of her illegitimate child, but her clever lawyer managed to convince the Judge that she had not wilfully killed the child, and she was imprisoned for just one month.

1863 – Deserter Steals Donkey

George Lewis, a deserter from the Radnorshire Militia, and Sarah Vaughan of Brilley who lived with him, were accused by an ostler of Kington of stealing his donkey.

The Magistrates decided that there was not enough evidence and the couple were discharged.

1867 – Skeleton found in Brilley Wood

In September 1867 the skeleton of Maria Price of Lyonshall, aged between 70 and 80, was found in Cwm Thomas Wood, Brilley.

Enquiries revealed that Maria had left home in June, and simply disappeared, and it was thought that she had probably got lost and wandered around until totally exhausted, when she lay down and died.  She then became “a victim for the fowls of the air and other animals of prey”.

1795 – Caution by Thomas Kidson

Thomas Kidson put a notice in the Hereford Journal in March 1795:

“This is to caution all persons not to trust Elizabeth Kidson, wife of Thomas Kidson, of the parish of Brimfield and county of Hereford, as I will not be answerable for any debt she may contract after this notice”

1844 – Accidents involving Horses

The following short article in the Hereford Times is an illustration of the dangers of the “horse age”. Accidents were par for the course.

“A poor lad of the name of Humphreys was driving a waggon to Brimfield near Ludlow for the purpose of loading bark, when the horses took fright and the boy, who was riding on the shafts at the time, leaped off for the purpose of stopping them, when he was unfortunately caught by the shaft and knocked down, the waggon passing over him. It was soon ascertained that he had broken his thigh. Mr. T. Nottingham, a farmer residing at Woofferton near where the accident happened, sent immediately to Ludlow for a surgeon, and afterwards went himself on horseback to Richards Castle to see the parish officers, on order to have him removed, and on his return, we are sorry to say, Mr. Nottingham was thrown from his horse and broke his collar bone.”

(In the 19th century, reporters often forgot to use a full stop!)

1849 – Drowning of Edward Morris

Edward Morris a mason aged 21, was found drowned in the canal.

He was said to be a “free drinker” but not a drunken man, and there was nothing to suggest that there was any foul play involved.

The imaginative verdict of the jury was “found drowned”.

1854 – Gruesome Death of Samuel Beddoes

Samuel Beddoes worked for Messrs. Mainwaring, timber merchants, and he and a charcoal wagon driver named Griffiths had been drinking together for several hours at the Roebuck Inn. Eventually Beddoes staggered off to the timber yard to start his night shift, and Griffiths “merrily” set off with his team of horses in the same direction.

Griffiths went a few yards past the timber yard and put his horses to graze by the roadside before curling up under a hedge.

At about 5 the next morning, the body of Samuel Beddoes was found in the road some 70 yards behind the wagon, and it was clear that the wheels had gone over the poor man’s head as his blood and brains were all over them.

The jury returned a verdict of accidental death, and the comment was that it was just another of the numerous deaths arising from drunkenness, which so frequently occurs in this county.

1861 – Bazaar in aid of Brimfield National Schools

Report :

“Pleasantly situated, Brimfield was in many respects a model village. A look of cleanliness ever pervaded the place, and the neatest of neat cottages were the rule. In a retired nook at an extreme point stood the Church, just such a one as a lover of the picturesque would like to sketch, with its trim churchyard and overhanging trees. There were signs of business too, apart from agriculture, in the extensive timber yard and workshops established by Mr. Mainwaring; and hence an increased population. With all these advantages it was felt that there was a great want – the lack of schools for the labouring population, and inasmuch as a man nowadays who believes that the poor are better qualified to fill their allotted station without education, is a sort of museum curiosity, that want it was found not difficult to supply.”

Money poured in for the building of the new school and it was to be in Gothic style, with a large school room and a house for the master and mistress attached. Playgrounds were to be constructed along with other amenities. There was a shortfall of £100 required for the cost of the building, and a bazaar was proposed to help raise funds.

The bazaar was held in the grounds of the Manor House, the residence of Miss Shenton and was a huge success, although the weather was appalling.

1868 – Death of John Pritchett Shelton

In May 1868, John Pritchett Shelton who lived at Brimfield, died at his father’s home in Bromyard, after a short but very painful illness. He was just 21.

He was a Lieutenant in the Shropshire Militia, which had just been disbanded, and he had returned to his Brimfield home in good health. He went to see his parents at Bromyard when “inflammation of the windpipe set in, and baffled the skill of his medical attendants.”

He was the eldest grandson of Captain Stephen Haswell of Brimfield and heir to his property, being described as kind and generous, and a staunch supporter of the poor.

1886 – Horrid Axe Accident

Jonas Iles, a 26 year old farm labourer employed by Mr. Philpotts of Brimfield, was felling a tree when the axe slipped and caught him on the knee. The would was severe, and only the attentions of a good surgeon prevented the need for amputation.

1893 – Strange May Weather

At the end of May 1893, snow fell on the Clee Hill, and it felt more like December. High winds destroyed barns and fruit trees were split or torn up by the roots, with the road from Brimfield to Tenbury being blocked by fallen trees.

1844 – Reward offered for information on fire starter at Brinsop

£100 and a free pardon to any accomplice of the incendiary was offered.

“Whereas some evil disposed person or persons did, about the hour of four o’clock in the morning of Friday 19th January, wilfully and maliciously set fire to a barn and other buildings at Brinsop, in the occupation of Mr. Thos. Lewis, whereby the same were entirely destroyed.

Any person who will give such information to Mr. George Adams, Superintendent of the Police Force as shall lead to the apprehension and conviction of the offender or offenders will, upon such conviction, be paid a reward of fifty pounds by John Lee Esq. the proprietor of the premises, and fifty pounds by Her Majesty’s government.

A free pardon will be granted to any accomplice, except the person who actually set fire to the premises!

1842 – Suicide at Bromyard

Jane Milton, aged 37 was grief stricken after burying her mother to whom she was very close, in fact she became deranged with grief.

Aware of this, Jane’s sister in law kept a watchful eye on her, even sleeping with her, but one morning Jane crept out of the house.

She went out of the back door and crossed into her neighbour’s garden where she threw herself in that neighbour’s well.  She was discovered at 7.30 the next morning.

1844 – Suicide of an Auctioneer at Bromyard

Mr. William James, a long time auctioneer in Bromyard, killed himself with a pistol to the head.

It seems that it was no secret that his financial state was decidedly rocky, and he had recently been charged with forgery.

William had lived for many months closeted in his house trying to avoid arrest, and many people actually thought that he had fled the country.  However the warrant for his arrest was given to Superintendent Marshall, and he along with two others called at the house;  on going inside and telling Mrs. James why they were they suddenly heard a gunshot.

On rushing upstairs, the policemen found that William had blown his brains out.

The inquest on the body of William James

At the inquest it was difficult to establish William’s state of mind, as only his wife and daughter had seen him for some considerable time;  however, his daughter, Margaret eventually agreed to meet the jury and told them that for seven months her father had not gone out, even into the garden.

Margaret told of how her brother had accidentally shot himself dead a month ago, and since then her father seemed different and rather excitable saying that he would not long be with them.  However in between periods of such excitement he would become very depressed.

The Post Mortem on William James

Thomas Pitt, a surgeon of Bromyard said that he found the deceased in a chair and near to death.  There was a large wound in the lower part of the right temple bone behind the ear;  a portion of the brains and blood was escaping from what appeared to be a bullet wound.

On removing the scalp, the surgeon found all the bones in the head fractured except the occipital bone;  the bullet was between the skin and the flesh on the opposite side of the head having passed through the brain.

The Jury’s Verdict

A verdict was returned of temporary insanity.

1847 – Cruelty to a Child at Bromyard

William Prince was charged with allowing his 13 year old daughter Ann to become chargeable to the Parish of Edvin Ralph.

Superintendent Marshall declared that he found Ann Prince in her father’s house, chained to the grate in a back room by her leg.  She was being beaten by her step mother.  Superintendent Marshall unlocked the padlocks chaining Ann and took her away before securing an order for her admission into the Bromyard Union Workhouse.

He said that he had often found Ann lying around on the streets of Bromyard, and each time asked her parents to take care of her;  however Ann was frightened to go home due to the anticipated beatings.  Many people spoke of having seen her sitting on doorsteps late at night.

William Prince said that perhaps the step mother did beat her too much, but that Ann often stole money from them.  This statement did not go down well in court, because it had been proved that there was no money for Ann to steal;  also, an older child had been allowed to go to London to make a living as a prostitute.

The stepmother did not appear in court as she had just given birth, but it was thought that she would be fit to turn up the next week and a summons was issued.

The magistrate said that it was one of the most disgraceful affairs he had ever heard.

1849 – Bromyard Union

In 1849 it was reported that the population of Bromyard Union was 11,405, and that only 37 deaths had been registered during the months of July, August and September, whilst the births totalled 95.

There was not one case of sickness at the Union Workhouse

1850 – Report on the State of Bromyard’s Health

Benjamin Herschel Babbage, the Superintending Inspector to the General Board of Health submitted a damming report on the state of Bromyard’s sanitary conditions.

Summary of Babbage’s Report

The annual increase of Bromyard’s population was one third of the country’s average.

The average annual mortality rate in Bromyard was hugely greater than elsewhere in Herefordshire.

The average living age had steadily decreased since 1838.

Disease had become endemic to particular houses in Bromyard, and certail localities were always infested by it.

Cause of excessive mortality was traced to defective house drains and open sewers.

Water supply was deficient, and the handles of private pumps were locked in summer so that water wasn’t stolen.

The parish churchyard was so full that there was no room for more burials.

The mortality rates in Bromyard imposed excessive demand on the inhabitants.

A complete sewerage system could be provided for £1180 15s 6d, and an abundant water supply provided for £1387 5s 3d (very precise!), and an average weekly payment of two and a quarter pence per house for thirty years would liquidate the principal and pay the interest of the above sums.

1857 – Drowning at Bromyard and a newly discovered possibility of resuscitation.

William Corbett, a 12 year old boy jumped into the River Froome to bathe, but he got out of his depth and because he couldn’t swim, he drowned before anyone could help him.

His body was in the water for half an hour before it was retrieved, and then there was another hour before Mr. R. Marley, a Bromyard surgeon, turned up.

The surgeon had read about the possible resuscitation of the apparently drowned in local papers, but his efforts to put the methods into practice failed…..not surprising given the length of time that had elapsed since death.

1857 – Inquest at Bromyard on Newborn Child

A woman named Ezenia Phillpotts had been in the Union Workhouse, but left at the end of May late in her pregnancy.  Shortly afterwards, she returned to the workhouse and asked the matron to express milk from her breasts, saying that she had had her baby which died almost immediately.

She told police where the body was, and it was found in a ditch in Avenbury.

The surgeon said at the inquest that the child had been born alive, and that there were no marks of violence, nor any other apparent cause of death unless it arose from suffocation.

The jury returned a verdict of “natural death”.

1877 – Opening of Worcester and Bromyard Railway

At the opening of the new Worcester and Bromyard Railway, banners were put up in the street proclaiming…. “come at last, Hurrah!”

The Worcestershire Chronicle reported

“….for many years now the easy going inhabitants of this pleasant Herefordshire town had looked with intense longing, but looked in vain, for the two iron streaks from which the puff of the railway engine might be seen, and the place of their nativity added to the great network of railways which afford a speedy means of communication over the United Kingdom.

Seventeen years is a long time to make a single line of railway barely a dozen miles in length, but difficulties have arisen in the way, and which, thanks to the indefatiguable exertions of E.B. Evans esq.  have been overcome, and at least the opening is an accomplished fact.”

The community rejoiced heartily, and although initially there were few passengers, there were many who went to the station to see the train.

“Soon the shrill scream of the whistle and the roar of the train will cause but little remark;  let us hope however, that Bromyard will now, phoenix like, rise from her ashes, and beginning a new and stirring existence prove to the two or three old fogies who reside within it, and who forget that the world moves, that railways after all are amongst the most important things required to make a town the scene of industry.

1878 – Manslaughter at Bromyard

An inquest was held on the body of 25 year old Richard John Box, a baker of Broad Street, Bromyard.

His brother William Henry Box said that he  saw him at 7 in the morning when he was in good health and busy making bread, then he next saw him late that night in Dr. Etheridge’s house, when he was lying on the sofa and bleeding heavily from a wound in his stomach.

William stayed with him that night and then took him home, not leaving him for very long at any time until he died some weeks later.  He was under the care of Mr. Shelton, Dr. Etheridge and Mr. Walsh.

It transpired that whilst Richard John Box was attending a wake with friends, their spring cart overtook a man called John Bentley, who then accused the driver of hitting him with his whip, and became very stroppy.  Bentley followed the cart, swearing profusely and eventually Richard got down and approached him before giving him a push.  Bentley fell down, then when he got up Richard gave him another push.  After a short scuffle, Bentley stabbed Richard, who bleeding badly, climbed back into the cart and his friends raced him to Dr. Etheridge, who found a severe wound from which bowels protruded.

Following many accounts of the fateful events, the jury retired and returned a verdict of manslaughter against John Bentley.

1891 – Bromyard Annual Sports

This event, held under the auspices of the Bromyard Amateur Athletic Association, was well attended due partly to the good weather.

There was not only racing, but also pony races and the Worcester Squadron of the Worcestershire Hussars gave an exhibition.

During the afternoon the band of the D Company of 1st Herefordshire Rifle Volunteers, under Bandmaster Palmer did their best to entertain, but unfortunately it was felt that they needed a bit more practice!

1866 – Separation of Lower Bullingham and Grafton from St. Martin’s Parish

At a Council held before her Majesty at Windsor on 19th May 1866, the townships of Grafton and Lower Bullinghope, commonly called Bullingham, were separated from the parish of St. Martin and annexed to the benefice of Upper Bullinghope for Ecclesiastical purposes only.

This order was registered in the Registry of the Diocese of Hereford on 7th June 1866 and was binding on all persons.

1787 – Amazing age attained by Woman

Ann Mellin died at the beginning of July 1787 at the incredible (for the time) aged of 102.

1787 – Tailor’s house set on fire

Benjamin Williams, a Tailor of Burghill, spent some time and effort building himself a small house. This dwelling was “maliciously set on fire by some wicked person or persons unknown”.

Benjamin pleaded for help in finding the culprits and offered the reward of a guinea for any information.

1895 – Cider a Temperance Drink?

For some time it had been claimed that cider was a temperance drink; however in the report of Burghill Asylum, according to the medical superintendent of the British Medical Journal, more people were admitted to the asylum because of the affects of drinking cider, than any other cause!

I can believe that!

1899 – Death of Man at Burghill Lunatic Asylum

Frederick Waite aged 33 was an inmate of Burgill Asylum;  he had been admitted on 7th January 1898 on the warrant of the Home Secretary from HM prison at Hereford.

Frederick’s parents lived in Chesterfield, but he himself had been wandering around the country, housebreaking and committing larceny until he was caught and tried in January 1898, after which he was sent to the asylum being considered quite insane.  He was also thought to be epileptic.

By the end of March 1898 his condition seemed to improve and he was given work in a tailor’s shop, but after a succession of fits he lost that job.  He grew worse, and witnesses said that he became very excited and appeared to have a gross brain disease – he became more demented and eventually died from exhaustion and gangrene of the lungs.

The surgeon said that Frederick had been well and properly treated at the asylum, and someone had been with him constantly for three months.

1899 – More from Burgill Lunatic Asylum

Dawson Wellington, an inmate of Burgill lunatic asylum, managed to escape and was missing for several days.

Dawson was considered to be deranged in his mind and very prone to deceit and lying, but not dangerous in any way.

He was eventually found wandering in fields in Leominster by a policeman, and was returned to the asylum

1896 – Annual Report of the Burghill Asylum

The annual report of the Hereford City and Country Asylum at Burghill was issued, and the Medical Superintendent Dr. Chapman declared that “Hereford has most patients in the asylum in proportion to its population, of any county in England or indeed the world, and the excess appears to consist largely of the aged and paralysed; of helpless and bedridden persons”.

He also protested about the introduction of yet more red tape caused by new legislation, which created a huge increase in work.

1907 – Swine Fever breaks out in Burghill

Mr. Sharland-Ball’s high class herd of pigs at Manor Farm Burghill, had to be destroyed following an outbreak of swine fever.

1908 – Experimental Orchard at Farm of Burghill Asylum

The Agricultural Education Committee of Herefordshire County Council made arrangements to set out an experimental orchard in accordance with the plans of the National Fruit and Cider Institute.

Six acres of land at Burghill Asylum would be planted with at least 25 varieties of fruit, some of which had never been tried before in Herefordshire.

1926 – Double Murder at Burghill Court – The Butler did it

The trial of Charles Houghton opened in November 1926, where he was charged with the murder on 7th September of two elderly ladies – Miss Elinor Drinkwater Woodhouse and Miss Martha Gordon Woodhouse who were his employers, at Burghill Court.

He had been in the service of the Woodhouse family for 22 years, initially as a Footman and then Butler. However, he became rather fond of the booze which didn’t go unnoticed by the ladies who didn’t like it one bit, especially as he was actually the only man who lived on the premises.

The ladies sacked Houghton on 6th September and he was given 24 hours to leave; he was given a month’s wages in lieu of notice and a month’s board money, and they told him that they would help him find another job. Houghton objected to the short notice, and eventually the ladies agreed to let him stay for a week – they were actually quite upset at the action they were having to take.

The next day after breakfast, he shot them both at close range with a sports gun.

At the end of his trial, he was given the death sentence, and taken to Gloucester Gaol.

Charles Houghton appeal against his death sentence as he languished in the condemned cell in Gloucester for the murder of Miss Elinor Drinkwater Woodhouse of Burghill Court. was not proceeded with.

There was a second indictment which charged Houghton with the murder of Miss Martha Gordon Woodhouse.

The solicitor for the defence, Mr. F. Craze of Hereford, laid the case and evidence before the Home Secretary, who declined to interfere with the death sentence.

Charles Houghton was executed in Gloucester Gaol on 3rd December 1926.

The two sisters were buried in the same grave in Burghill churchyard – their favourite pony drew a carriage full of flowers and wreaths.

1793 – Burrington Bridge in Ruinous State

The bridge over the river Team at Burrington was in a dreadful state, and an advertisement was posted for workmen to tender their plans for repairing;  keeping in good repair, and leaving it in good repair at the end of a period of seven years.

1848 – A Child Burns to Death at Burrington

Martha Watkins went out late one afternoon, leaving her children, John aged one and a half, and her daughter aged three and a half alone in the house.  There was a fire in the hearth.

When Martha returned after an hour or two she could hear the children crying and rushed in to find little John with his clothes mere cinders and his body very badly burnt.   John lingered in agony for two days, before finally dying.

1857 – Opening of new school at Burrington

Andrew Boughton Knight erected the building, which consisted of a dwelling house;  school and classrooms, which was intended to serve Aston;  Downton and Burrington.

It was noted however that there was a rather sad contrast between this new building and the old church and later in the year it was proposed to rebuild the church as it was beyond restoration.

1857 – Suicide of James Corbet of Burrington

James Corbet had for years worked for Thomas Andrew Knight of Downton Castle, and was 68 when he died; he was well thought of by friends and acquaintances, but had been depressed for a while.

On the day of his death he was due to travel to Leintwardine to meet the daughter of the late Mr. Andrew Knight – something he frequently did when she came to the area.  However, when he got out of bed, he went downstairs, sat on a chair and putting a gun under his chin shot himself.

His wife rushed downstairs and on finding her husband screamed so loudly that she could be heard from a long way distant.

At the inquest, the verdict of temporary insanity was returned.

1858 – Naughty Grocer at Burrington

Benjamin Wall, a Burrington Grocer, was fined one shilling plus costs for using flour scales that were weighted against the purchaser.

1895 – Suicide of Farmer at Burrington.

Mr. Davies, a 50 year old widower living at Monsty Farm had for some time been very worried that he might lose the farm.  It seems that one of his general servants, Elizabeth Galliers, was expecting his baby and he never disputed his responsibility.  Elizabeth’s father paid several visits to Mr. Davies, begging him to send her away to stop the escalating scandal, and Elizabeth herself was happy to go if Mr. Davies found her a place.

However finding this place was not easy, and Mr.Davies finally asked Elizabeth to marry him the next week, to which she agreed.

After this he complained of being unwell, and asked Elizabeth to get him two tablespoons of rum, saying that he would get a license and they could be married within days.

Meanwhile, Elizabeth was having no luck in finding anyone to take her in for her confinement, and Davies was confiding with friends that he was having some trouble with the girl.

One Sunday he had his dinner as usual, then after a short talk with Elizabeth he left the house;  when he hadn’t returned some time later, his worried daughter went out with the servant to look for him but found nothing.  Mind you, they didn’t bother with the cow house because it was “so dreadfully dirty”.

Late at night, Mr. Davies’ son returned from a visit to Ludlow, and immediately went out himself to search – he soon found the body of his father hanging from a beam in the cow house.

The Inquest

It became apparent from witness statements that Davies had been very worried for some time, and that the whole thing with Elizabeth Galliers had got on top of him.

The verdict of the jury was “suicide whilst of unsound mind”

1797 – Fire on Byford Farm

Late one afternoon in early February, a fire broke out on J.G. Cotterell’s farm at Byford which resulted in the death of one cow and severe burn injuries to another, along with the destruction of a barn full of barley.

The fire was started by a small child putting a burning stick to the straw by the barn door.

1823 – Sad End to Marriage Ceremony of Byford Woman

Mrs. Smith of Byford, a widow whose first husband had died suddenly whilst crossing the river Wye in a boat, had befriended 70 year old Mr. Hopkins, a former curate of Byford who was a native of Dorston.  He lived with her in her house when gravely ill, and she cared for and nursed him.

When he recovered, he was so grateful to her that he proposed, both of them thinking they would be comfort for each other in their old age.

The wedding was arranged to take place at St. John’s in Hereford and just as the wedding ring was about to be placed on Mrs. Smith’s finger, Mr. Hopkins dropped to the ground, and died almost instantly.

He was taken to the house that he had prepared for his bride, and the post mortem revealed that he had ruptured a blood vessel close to his heart.

1839 – Photogenic Drawing

Dr. Kidley of Byford, was the first person in Herefordshire to apply the art of photogenic drawing – a newly discovered and beautiful art.

It was suggested that a material improvement could be made by washing the paper with a mixture of equal parts of white of egg and water, and afterwards with the solution of nitrate of silver, fixing the drawing as usual with the iodide of potassium.

 1843 – Manslaughter at Byford

James Preece went to a dance at the Boat public house in Byford one Wednesday in August, and had a falling out with Charles Lewis.  On the Sunday morning, at around seven, they met to fight and after some seven rounds James Preece was downed by Charles – he immediately gave in, saying that he was badly hurt in the neck and back.

James was carried to the Byford Boat and after being bled by a woman, was put to bed, but he died in agony just after midnight.

Mr. Giles, the Byford Surgeon, carried out a post mortem and his opinion was that death was due to spinal cord injury and effusion of blood.  He said that the whole of the vessels of the membranes of the brain, as well as the brain itself, were very much congested and gorged with blood.  He also discovered a fracture and dislocation of the sixth and seventh vertical vertebrae.

The verdict at the inquest was Manslaughter

1844 – Horse Races Re-established at Byford

In July 1844, the village of Byford thoroughly enjoyed an excuse for fun, having foregone the old custom of Sunday wakes.

Many hundreds of people made their way to the new racecourse, which was said to be in a perfect state for racing following some much needed rain.

Entries were not as high as was hoped, but this was mainly due to other races taking place elsewhere on the same day, but this didn’t stop the pleasure of the spectactors and the first race for the Byford and Monnington purse of sovereigns was run between Mr. Hall’s Orlando and Mr. Crump’s Running Rein.  Orlando won.

After the horses came the foot racers, who contested for new hats, fabric,handkerchiefs etc., and then the dancing commenced.  The partying continued late into the night, with an eventual adjournment to The Boat Inn, and it was well into the early hours before people went home.

1845 – Attempted Murder by Lover at Byford – As First Reported

Rumours of an attempt on the life of Miss Ellen Davies spread rapidly around Herefordshire, with embellisments being added along the way until the gossipers had her dead and buried.

Eventually, the story became so fantastical that many who heard it decided that it was all a hoax, however it turned out that she had indeed been shot at.   Or so it was said…….

Ellen Davies and her Would be Suitor

Ellen Davies was a pretty daughter of a miller/shopkeeper, who had been pestered for nearly two years by a young man who frequently asked her to marry him, even though he refused to tell her his name or where he lived.  Ellen consistently ignored his pleas to meet him at various places in and around Byford, so that he changed tactics and wrote to her saying that he was very ill and dying.  When that didn’t work, he pestered her even more than before (would be called stalking these days) and eventually he wrote to her saying that he would kill both her and himself unless she married him.

Ellen’s friends were horrified, but rather thought she would be safer to marry him than reject him!  Ellen herself decided otherwise, so continued to spurn his advances.

Ellen’s Would be Suitor becomes Deranged

The young man became so deranged that he was sectioned for a while, and many different people heard him swearing that he would shoot Ellen Davies, and that she would never marry anyone else;  he made more threats of a destructive nature, but nobody took any notice because they thought he was insane.

The Murder Attempt on Ellen Davies

Eventually he was released from the asylum, and shortly afterwards he commenced watch on Ellen’s house.  One Monday night, Ellen went out to the cider house at the back of her father’s house, where she came across the young man of her nightmares who was with a friend of his.  Before she could escape, they had grabbed her and dragged her over two meadows;  the friend held her by the arms whilst the insane would be lover pointed a pistol at her breast.  He fired once, and Ellen felt blood pouring down her neck and arm – just before fainting she heard the man holding her arms cry out “you have shot me”.

When she came round, the men had gone and she screamed for help until her family found her, and not surprisingly, when they saw her covered in blood and in a state of near insensibility, they feared the worst and sent for surgeons from Hereford and Byford.

The surgeons merely discovered a few bruises to her arms, but the effects of her terror were profound and for some considerable time she was said to be dangerously ill from the shock.

Of the men, no trace was found other than blood being found in an adjoining field.

The Papers Are Not Totally Convinced

The papers duly reported the case with the facts that were given to them, but were highly sceptical…….

“That a madman might have fired in the way described is not improbable;  but that a coadjutor could be found to hold the victim, is really out of the range of probability – if not mad too – and who but a madman would occupy the dangerous position of holding a person while a third party shot at the person so held?  He is by far the more culpable, in fact his offence is diabolical.”

The Aftermath of the First Reports of the Byford Mystery

Many people doubted the truth of the facts, especially as it was all related by Ellen Davies herself, along with her parents.

It was felt to be extraordinary that nobody ever saw the “Demon” as he came to be known, except for Ellen and her mother and sister.

It transpired that the letters he sent her were sometimes delivered to Ellen at Credenhill Mill where she occasionally lived, and sometimes to Byford where they were pushed under the door or thrown into the shop.

He gave Ellen gifts, such as a dress and shawl – the papers, and the people, questioned why it was not possible for the shop where they were bought to reveal the identity of the purchaser.

The Truth Emerges – The Verified Report

A truth that was described “a more malicious and unaccountable transaction is not to be found in the annals of either reality or romance.  Indeed, so wild, so heartless, so daring, is the wickedness which the persecution of Ellen Davies unfolds, that the reader will often exclaim – this cannot be true, it must be romance, it cannot be reality.  Let the reader however be not incredulous, the source of this information is the most credible”

So here it is, and the man is no longer a lover, or suitor…….he is The Demon.

The Davies Family

Richard Davies was a miller living in a secluded cottage in Byford.  It was a small cottage, hidden by trees, and was rather cramped with low rooms;  it had an outhouse which was both a cellar and lumber room about twenty yards from the cottage.  Richard Davies’s mill was at Credenhill, some miles away, and he was honest and hard working – very inoffensive;  he had a general store at his Byford house where virtually anything could be bought.

Richard Davies had a quiet hard working wife and three pretty daughters;  there was also a female domestic and a labourer living in the house with them.

Ellen Davies aged 21 and the eldest daughter,  was extremely pretty and was described as being of Venus stature with nicely rounded proportions.  Her hair was beautiful, and she had lovely eyes, teeth and lips.

Ellen Davies Works in her Father’s Hereford Shop

Three years prior to the incident, Richard Davies took a small house and shop in Hereford and filled it with groceries etc., and here he placed his daughter Ellen, but she was not there long before she became plagued by suitors.  She was firm with them all, but it didn’t stop their advances, however she “shook them off as one strikes down an insect buzzing near the ear”.  The continued “hum of swarms” was not pleasant though and the situation became unbearable.

The Demon Appears

One of these men was the one that was to become known as The Demon – a young man of 30, about five feet seven tall with a dark complexion.  His hair and whiskers were dark, and he was not one bit handsome;  he wore a profusion of rings, including one big one which had a sprung cover and when open revealed a miniature painting of himself.

Ellen had often seen him walking around Hereford with respectable gentlemen but never learnt his name.  She was used to living in the country, so was not always happy to be confined to the shop, and often got up early in the morning to walking up Ailstone Hill or Broomy Hill.  One morning in March 1844 she realised that The Demon was following her, tracking her every move, and from that day she could not go for her walks without the man following her, although he never spoke.

The Demon Starts Stalking

Then a letter arrived in which The Demon declared his love for her, and put his case for a happy and successful marriage – he didn’t reveal his name, and never did throughout the whole sorry affair.

Ellen replied, turning him down, and on 1st May 1844 he wrote again pleading with her to change her mind, as well as following her at every opportunity.  Again and again she rejected him, until eventually she was so tired of it all that she begged her father to close the Hereford shop and let her return to Byford, which he immediately did.  This however only seemed to inflame the Demon further, and letter after letter arrived – sometimes by post, and sometimes delivered by a young man who later became the Demon’s accomplice.  Ellen never answered any of his increasingly desperate letters.

One day he saw Ellen in Hereford and forced his company on her, vowing eternal love and pleading with her to agree to be his wife.  She refused, saying that apart from anything else she could never entertain a relationship with a man who concealed his real name from her.  She refused many gifts of rings for the same reason, and he promised that if she would agree to be his wife, he would tell her his name as long as she told nobody else other than her parents.  She left.

The Demon Fakes Illness

There followed over a period of time, increasingly insane sounding letters to Ellen, most of which she ignored.   Then after some weeks, she met the Demon in Hereford and once again he proposed marriage, describing fantastical estates in Cumberland where he would take her after their marriage.  Unfortunately, Ellen’s parents appeared dazzled by this, and perhaps Ellen herself was swayed, because when he wrote to say that he was ill, she resolved to go to see him in Cumberland, but before she could, she met the accomplice of the Demon, the young man on the dappled pony who carried the letters to Byford, who on learning her intentions to go to Cumberland, told her that the Demon was dead.

Two Strange Men Join the Cast

A week later however, he met her again and said that he had made a mistake!  Then followed more letters, all of which she ignored having realised that the man was quite mad, but one day two gentlemen drove up to the shop in a gig – they asked her to sign a document, but she refused having no idea what was written there.  A few days later they returned, but the shop was full of customers so they drove off;  they returned some days later and tried to force her to sign the document, using many threats – once again she refused.

The men returned a week later, and they grabbed hold of her and dragged her towards their gig;  fortunately, two labourers saw her plight and ran to help, at which point Ellen was released and the men drove off.

It would seem clear that these men were working for the Demon, and the document was a marriage agreement.

Everything went quiet – Ellen had no more letters, and the men did not return, so she must have started to relax, but it was not to be for long because the Demon shoved a note through her bedroom window.

The Demon becomes Threatening, and Attempts Murder

The contents were disturbing, and very threatening – he was basically warning her that he would never allow her to marry anyone else and as he wanted nobody but her then they would die together, but incredibly Ellen seemed unafraid.

On a Monday night, the Ellen and her family were eating supper, although Mr. Davies was at the Credenhill Mill.  Ellen went to the cider house for some cider, and was horrified to see the Demon in the lane;  she ran back into the house, and her sister and their man servant rushed out to chase the Demon.  Ellen ran too, and stood by the fence to watch, when the young man who had brought letters to her suddenly appeared by her side, and warned her that she was in great danger because “they” had lost the Demon during the previous 24 hours……he barely finished speaking, before the Demon, who had shaken off his pursuers, sprang over the fence and grabbed Ellen, before throwing her back over the fence.  He and his accomplice manhandled her a hundred yards or so before hurling her over a stone stile, but then their way was thwarted by some wooden rails – the pair failed to get Ellen through these, and the Demon became frantic;  he drew a pistol and pointed it at Ellen, at which point his accomplice threw his arms around her, apparently in an effort to protect her, but the gun went off and hit him instead.

As described in the first report above, Ellen was so badly shocked as to be very ill for some time, but this was not the end of the matter.  She received a letter from the accomplice, saying that he was badly injured and must leave the country until things died down, but hoped that she was okay.  Then a letter came from the Demon, which was very clearly the work of a madman, and in which he once again threatened her.

Disbelief that no Real Attempts were Made to find the Demon

The papers were puzzled, astonished and angry that no apparent attempts had been made by the authorities to trace any of the people involved in this whole affair – the Demon;  his accomplice;  the two men in the gig, and a lad who was holding their horse.  Mr. Davies put up a £50 reward for any information to help find the miscreants, but nothing came of it, and the police continued to turn their backs on the affair.

It all rather smacks of something being hushed up!

1854 – Death of Surgeon’s Son

Herbert Johnson Broome Giles, the infant son of P. Giles, Surgeon, died suddenly.

He had been “cross and sickly” for some time, and the nurse found him dead in bed, with a black face.

Verdict, died by the visitation of God.

1858 – Death by Falling from a tree

In April 1858, 17 year old Joseph Preece of Byford was removing ivy from an elm tree when he fell and landed heavily on the ground.

P.B. Giles, a surgeon of Stanton on Wye, was immediately sent for, and he found Joseph unconscious but could not discover any fractures or contusions.

Sadly Joseph died the following morning, never really having gained consciousness.

1769 – Powerful Earthquake at Byton

At about eight in the morning of 29th December, a violent earthquake was felt in Byton…….it started with a rumbling noise which seemed to come from Shobdon’s Hill, and this noise was soon succeeded by the shock.

The River Lug rose by several inches before sinking again almost immediately. The tower of the church which was already decayed, was split in many places, and all the villagers were terrified. Men, women and children ran to the church in the hope of safety, but couldn’t get in because of the state of the tower.

Nobody was killed, but a large rent opened up in Shobdon’s-hill, from which water gushed out; however, a big bonus was that both coal and iron were revealed!

1844 – Bolting Horse kills Man

An inquest was held before N. Lanwarne Esq. on the body of John Smith of Byton.

John Smith was a shoemaker by trade, and he was seen on his bolting mare, careering through Byton village. He was trying in vain to pull the horse up, and after he crashed into a horse and cart he fell off.

The cart driver stopped and went to tend to him, but he found John to be bleeding from mouth, nose and eyes. John Smith died on the spot and a verdict of Accidental death was recorded

1855 – Death of Eliza Godwin

Henry Underwood, Coroner, held an inquest on the death of Eliza Godwin, wife of a Byton labourer.

Eliza’s husband Thomas, said that she was weak after a previous illness and that their daughter had died a while back which affected Eliza’s health further. One day, she complained of being unable to see and of being thirsty so he gave her some tea and a dose of Epsom salts before going out to work in the garden. Shortly afterwards he was alterted by screams from his surviving daughter, and running in he found his wife on her knees unable to speak. She died as soon as he arrived.

Mr. M. Tearne a surgeon of Presteign, examined the body but found no trace of poison (he had been suspicious because of the daughter dying suddenly seven weeks previously), and gave the opinion that Eliza had died either from heart disease or exposure to the sun.

The verdict of the jury was Death by the visitation of God.

1857 – Driving without Reins

Edward Corbett of Byton was fined one shilling, with costs of eleven shillings for riding on a waggon drawn by three horses without reins.

(A bit like driving a car with no hands on the wheel I suppose!)

1858 – Death of Jane Griffiths

Jane Griffiths aged 24 was driving with her brother to his new farm at Presteign; they were in a gig drawn by a mare which he had owned for some time, and which he trusted to be calm and quiet.

At the Cwm turnpike gate they were overtaken by Mr. G. Edwards of Byton, who drew level and started talking to Jane Griffiths. After a while, the mare started plunging violently, then bolted at great speed. The gig swerved against a bank and Mr. Griffiths was thrown out without injury, however the mare continued at a furious rate for another 300 yards, when the gig was dashed against a high bank and Jane was thrown out with great violence.

Mr. Thos. Adney, a surgeon of Presteign was sent for and he looked after Jane but it was to no avail and she died of injuries to the head.

1863 – Misconduct in Service

Thomas Preece and William Preece, both waggoners employed by Mr. C. Britten of the Woodhouse, Byton, were charged with misconduct while in the service of Mr. Britten, by being so drunk that they were incapable of taking care of their horse whilst returning to Byton from Leominster.

Their actions were judged to have endangered their master’s property; neither man had anything to say in their defence, and after being given a severe reprimand by the Bench were committed for 21 days and 14 days respectively to the house of correction with hard labour.

1899 – Nasty Trap Accident

Miss Harriet Price of the Court House suffered many injuries when attempting to take a short cut to the harvest field on Byton Hill in order to deliver dinner.

The trap could not cope with the rough and narrow lane and overturned, although the horse did not bolt. The servant who was accompanying Miss Price was thrown out at the back and was unharmed, but Miss Price went over the bank with the vehicle, and some part of it came into contact with her head, forcing out the left eye and fracturing her cheek bone. Her right leg was broken and her hip was badly strained; her arms and shoulders were badly bruised.

Dr. Debenham cared for her, and successfully removed the damaged eye and also set her leg.

1773 – Wilful Matricide

In May 1773, Joseph Owen  the younger of Canon Pyon was charged with the wilful murder of his mother Anne at the house of his father Joseph Owen the elder, and was committed to the county gaol.

It was said that Joseph had been unhappy on and off for some years, and was frequently not right in the head;  during one of his “insane paroxysms” he emasculated himself.

1857 – Stolen Turnips

Fanny Rowley and Ann Preece of Canon Pyon were charged with having stolen some turnips from a field belonging to Matthew Dent of Canon Pyon.

The case was proved and the two women were sentenced to ten days hard labour.

1860 – The Wreck of the Blervie Castle

A bad storm in the Channel wrecked the Blervie Castle, and amongst the passengers suffering their terrible fate were Mr. and Mrs. Denham of Canon Pyon.

1863 – Festivities Celebration the Royal Marriage of Prince Albert to Princess Alexander

Canon Pyon celebrated the event of the Royal marriage on a liberal and true old English way.

The farmers provided more than 600lbs of beef which was purchased by Mr. H. Griffiths and distributed at a rate of one pound of beef to each of the poor in the parish.

On the Tuesday, the anvils of the blacksmith vied with the church bells, whilst employers gave their workmen a splendid dinner and plenty of cider.

The vicar, the Rev. C. Davies invited the farmers to dine with him at the Vicarage and they had an “elegant repast” washing down with lots of sherry.  The Vicar also gave tea to the ringers and nearly 70 children, and followed this with a display of fireworks including squibs, crackers, wheels, rockets and balloons in the field next to the vicarage.

The rifle corps used up all their ammunition firing volleys;   and this noisy and food and drink filled day was hugely enjoyed by all.

1864 – Shocking Youthful Depravity

William Reynolds, alias Powell, a 12 year old boy of Canon Pyon was charged with unlawfully and indecently assaulting Susannah Reynolds, also of Canon Pyon. (His sister maybe). She was just six years old.

He was fined 6d.

Clearly in those days, it was not considered to be too serious a crime.

Three years later, this same boy was described as a “Youthful Delinquent” when he was charged with riotous and drunken behaviour at Canon Frome feast one Sunday.

William Reynolds was said by P.C. Perks to be the only drunken and noisy person there, but rather surprisingly the boy’s grandmother claimed that he was a very good boy, just a bit “hot in his temper”. She must have been a saint to put up with him!

Superintendent Dallow said that this youth had already been flogged at the request of his relatives for indecent assault (see above), but the grandmother still insisted that he was a good boy and pleaded with them for leniency saying that he was fatherless and she was in charge of him.

Reynolds was fined 10s plus 10s costs, which his master, Mr. Plevy, paid for him.

1866 – Cattle Plague in Canon Pyon

The terrible plague raged throughout the year, with increasing virulence.

Mr. Gardiner of Lawtons Hope had 31 head of cattle destroyed, and Messrs Yeomans also gave instruction for the whole of their stock at Kinford Farm killed, apart from four animals apparently recovering from the disease.

One night, “some evil disposed person of the same parish” opened the gates of Mr. Henry Griffiths farm at Fullbridge, and 22 cows which had been disease-free wandered off to another farm where the disease was rampant.

Mr. Griffiths offered a reward of £50, a small fortune, for any information leading to the arrest of the person responsible.

1867 – Drunken Youth at Canon Pyon Feast

William Reynolds, a boy of just 14 was charged with being riotous and drunk at a Sunday Canon Pyon Feast.

The policeman on duty, P.C. Perks, said that he saw William very drunk in the road late at night – The Chairman in the Court asked if many feasts took place on Sundays, and was told that yes a number were held but not much went on as no stalls were allowed.  The Chairman felt that all Sunday feasts should be discontinued.

1887 – Child Dies from Burns at Canon Pyon

Four year old Emily Davies of Canon Pyon had been left in the charge of her fifteen year old sister whilst her mother went out to work.

The little girl managed to find some matches, and striking one set her dress ablaze, burning herself so badly that she died that same evening.

1891 – Countrywide Rain causes crop Failure

Torrential and persistent rain at harvest time caused dismay around the country.

In Canon Pyon – “wheat is growing very fast in the ear and harvest is making no progress for it has rained every day for the past fortnight. The barley and oats are almost completely spoiled”

Then the other side of the coin:

1894 – Countrywide Hot Spell causes crop Failure

All over the country, farmers were crying out for rain for their fields, and in Canon Pyon “all kinds of grain were doing very badly for want of rain”

1832 – Falling Tree Kills man at Castle Frome

Samuel Brookes was working in a wood at Castle Frome, when a falling tree killed him.

1838 – Theft of a Chicken

John Rowberry was convicted of stealing a hen fowl from Francis Bennett of Castle Frome, and sent to the County Gaol.

1906 – Farmer Drowns at Castle Frome

A farmer named Charles T. Ockey who had been suffering from bad health was found drowned in a four foot deep pool.

1850 – Moving Gravestone Tribute to a Boy and Dog

“In childhood’s prime, when opening springtide wove

it’s wavy wreaths of yellow daffodil.

Awoke the winged warblers of the grove,

and fringed with primrose pale the copse-side rill.

Poor boy, death laid it’s hand upon thy brow,

and snatch’d thee in an instant from the earth,

while life was bursting from each budding bough,

and all around was industry and mirth.

Parental anguish steep’d in tears they shroud,

domestics press’d thy mangled corpse to see,

the passing pilgrim paused amid the crowd,

and they fond, faithful terrier – where was he?

He who was wont at dawn beside they door

to gently tap, or gambol at they side?

Soon as thy young life’s pulses beat no more,

he lick’d thy hand, moaned plaintively, and died.

Hence, while around Mount Pleasant’s slopes we stray,

and mark his grave beside the Shepherd’s Cot,

we pensive pen this tributary lay,

and plant above the mound – Forget Me Not.

1866 – Tragic Death at Clehonger Mill

Benjamin Cross was known as a sober man in good health, and hard working.

One day, witnesses reported seeing the mill wheel going faster than normal, but didn’t think to investigate;  it wasn’t until  Thomas Probert went to the mill as he had some grist to be ground that Benjamin Cross’s sad demise was discovered.

The water wheel was moving quickly, and Thomas could see Benjamin apparently standing by the machinery – he was so alarmed by his appearance that he immediately stopped the water wheel.

Benjamin was nearly in a standing position, with his knees bent and his arms around the spindle of the cog wheel.  The skirt of his jacket was caught in the wheel and he had been drawn right into the machinery by his clothes – he was cold and dead.

The Post Mortem

A Hereford surgeon carefully examined Benjamin’s body and discovered severe external injuries, with the lower part of the abdomen extensively lacerated and bowels protruding.  There were also cog wheel marks on the spine, which was dislocated.  The surgeon also thought that there would have been extensive internal injuries, and that the shock alone would be sufficient to cause death.

Verdict – Accidental death from the machinery of a mill.

1887 – The Clehonger Whipping Case

As reported in the Birmingham Daily Post

“At the Hereford County Court, an action was brought by William Pritchard the younger of Clehonger (who is an infant) through William Pritchard the elder, a labourer, against Lieutenant Colonel Lucas of Belmont, J.P. for the county of Hereford, the Rev. E.H. Holloway, vicar of Clehonger, and Mr. W.J. Smith, schoolmaster of the same place, the claim being £50 for damages arising out of what is locally known as the Clehonger whipping case.

“Witnesses for the plaintiff stated that in May last, the plaintiff who is a weak minded youth aged 19, obtained admittance to Clehonger parish church vestry when no one else was present, got possession of several surplices some of which he burnt, and others defiled in a filthy manner.

“Pritchard admitted the act, and after being waited upon by the police who told him that he would be pardoned if he asked for forgiveness, he and Mrs. Pritchard waited upon the vicar and offered an apology. To this the Rev. Mr. Holloway replied that he could not overlook the matter and referred the plaintiff to Colonel Lucas, the churchwarden. The plaintiff and his mother called upon Colonel Lucas who said he felt it incumbent upon him to prosecute the lad and make him pay the damages, which were about £3 10s, but as this punishment would fall on the parents and not the person who deserved to suffer, he offered as an alternative that the plaintiff should be whipped in the Clehonger day school.

“The plaintiff agreed to this arrangement and stipulated that the schoolmaster, Mr. Smith, should administer the punishment. On reaching the school however, he met the three defendants.

The Whipping

“The schoolmaster took down plaintiff’s trousers, his shirt was also removed, and then Colonel Lucas gave him twenty four strokes with a cane, while the vicar stood by and counted the cuts. He shrieked and struggled to get away but was held down over a desk by the schoolmaster, and afterwards, the vicar addressing the other lads present, said he hoped it would be a warning to them not to abuse God’s house.

“The defence was that the plaintiff gave his consent to all that was to take place, and that therefore no assault was committed. It was done simply and solely as a kindness to the parents, and as a corrective to the lad, who, if taken before the magistrates would have been fined and his parents would have had to pay. Colonel Lucas also swore that the plaintiff agreed that he should administer the strokes and he denied that they were given with undue severity.”

The Judge did not think that it was a case in which heavy damages should be given, and the jury found for the plaintiff damages of £10.

1888 – Fatal Accident of a Farmer at Clehonger

William Hutton, a farmer of Clehonger was driving home from market late one night when his mare shied at a heap of stones on which a tramp had left a coat. He was flung from his trap and killed.

The horse went home and his worried wife drove out to look for her husband; when she found him she sat by his body until the doctor came.

1889 – Suicide at Clehonger due to Lack of Sleep

Clara Baylis was a single woman who worked as a Companion for a Miss Crampton, and travelled around with her.

Around Easter time she wrote to her sister and her husband saying that she did not feel well and would like to visit them, but subsequently she postponed the visit.

She then rearranged her visit and when she arrived was clearly unwell, saying that she had not slept for a good six weeks and was becoming distraught. She refused to see a doctor, but her mother called for one anyway and he prescribed some medicine.

The next morning, Clara’s mother went downstairs first thing and saw Clara hanging from a beam in the kitchen – she was cold and must have hung herself early in the night.

Her doctor in London said that she had not been depressed, just rather excitable and nervous.  His examination of the body showed that she had come down with a drop which virtually dislocated the neck, and he thought that death would have been instant.

He thought that lack of sleep had sent her temporarily out of her mind.

1893 – Mysterious Death at Clehonger

Three young men were out for a walk when one of them went into a coppice to cut a stick – there he found the body of a man under some bushes.

They pulled the man out and saw that the man had been shot through the mouth – a new revolver being in his hand.

Strangely, the man seemed determined to hide his identity, having removed the used pages of his notebook, and put on brand new clothes from which he had cut the tailor’s name.

The surgeon, Mr. David Evans of Kingstone, made his examination and found a wound at the roof of the mouth such as might have been caused by a shot from a revolver;  the ball had penetrated the back part of the brain at the junction with the spine, and death would have been instantaneous.  Advanced putrefaction had set in in the abdomen which indicated that the man had been dead for about four days.

He was thought to be about 24 years old, around 5 ft 8 ins, with fair complexion and short brown hair;  a short stubby moustache, hazel eyes and regular teeth.

The jury returned a verdict of suicide whilst in an unsound state of mind.

1811 – Absconded

On Sunday 26th May 1811, John Jones about 17 absconded from the Service of Mr. James Bonner of Castleton in the Parish of Clifford.

He was a native of Glasbury in the County of Brecon.

“Any person giving information to Mr. J. Bonner aforesaid, where the said John Jones is to be found, shall be rewarded for their trouble; and all persons are cautioned from employing the said John Jones, as they will be prosecuted.”

1827 – Huge reward for Information on Stolen Horses

Twenty guineas were offered by Colonel Powell of Hardwick in the parish of Clifford, as a reward for information leading to the apprehension of whoever stole the following horses:

“A brown mare, about 14 hands high, aged, of the cart kind but active. Has a switch tail with some white on the near hind leg. The other, a three year old colt that has been worked, with a white star on his forehead, a long tail, and is between a cart and a roadster”.

1845 – Sale of Young Hercules

Young Hercules was a powerful and much admired stallion bred for waggon work.

The property of John Williams of the Ton Farm, Clifford, he was bay, about five years old and stood nearly 17 hands high. He possessed immense power and his foal stock was highly approved of.

He was sired by the well known horse Hercules, owned by Mr. Bach of Rushock, and his dam was an excellent mare by Merryman.

1845 – Young Man Killed by Thrashing Machine at Clifford

William Price was sixteen years old and was employed by Mr. Chambers of the Lower Court, Clifford.

William had been driving the horses attached to a thrashing machine;  later that morning, a fellow employee noticed him lying on the floor which the horses slowly plodding along as if they had been a while without a driver.

William was taken home, but despite medical aid being sought he was declared dead.

The general opinion was that William had jumped on the pole of the machine, and that the wheel had hit his head.  There was a small wound on each side of his head, with a fracture of the skull which the Surgeon said was sufficient to cause instantaneous death.

1847 – Vicar donates Bread

The Rev. John Trumper, vicar of Clifford, distributed his annual donation of bread to the poor of the parish.

1851 – Storms at Clifford

In the early part of July 1851, a severe storm struck Clifford. Initially there was just torrential rain with wind and thunder, but later things escalated somewhat, and the noise of the thunder was described as resembling heavy ordnance discharge.

The rain was so heavy that it destroyed the roads, and a lightning bolt passed through farm buildings near Clifford Castle, belonging to T. Dew and occupied by Mr. Watkins. Fortunately, most of the electricity was expended on some old iron by the barn, but then it went through a door into the barn, killing a poor door which lay under a cart load of hay.

The bolt then went through a lancet hole into a stable, where the farmer’s son had only recently been cutting straw, and he had scarcely reached the manger of the adjoining stable with an armful of hay when the explosion took place. He was so shocked that he was rendered virtually unconscious, whilst a horse suffered leg injuries.

The bolt continued through the cow shed, leaving Mrs. Watkins and a cow she was milking unhurt, but it knocked down a large pit.

Several fields of wheat around the village looked as if a steam roller had been over them, and the following day the River Wye was nearly bursting its banks, the colour being deep red because of all the soil being washed off the fields. It was said that the river had never been that colour before, but I have to say that these days it is a fairly common occurence.

1863 – Desertion of Wife by Shoemaker

William James, a Shoemaker of Clifford was charged by Mr. Joseph Price, Llanver, overseer of the parish of Clifford, with having deserted his wife, she then being put in the Hay Union Workhouse.

Mr. Price said that he took Elizabeth James to William’s mother’s house, where William was staying, and he asked him if he would maintain his wife. He refused, and his mother gave Mr. Price rather a lot of verbal abuse.

William was committed to the House of Correction at Hereford for one month.

It seems that William was not the nicest of people, because in the same year he was convicted of assault on Thomas Bevan Watkins, who swore that he was in bodily fear of William.

William James was bound over to keep the peace and be of good behaviour for six months, and was fined £10.

A comment was made that Clifford villagers were “more than ordinarily pugnacious and quarrelsome”!!

1863 – The Priory Estate

The village turned out to welcome B.H. Allen Esq. and his family of the Priory to his new mansion.

Mr. Allen bought the Priory Estate some two years earlier and had built a fine residence, showing great kindness to all his workmen and neighbours during the building work, and it was because of this that people turned out in force for the big moving in day. Speeches were prepared and the church bells started ringing.

Unfortunately Mr. Allen missed his connection at Worcester and couldn’t get another train until the following day; but the celebrations began again, and when Mr. & Mrs. Allen arrived with the family in his carriage drawn by four splendid greys, the bell ringing and cheers were joyous.

All the workmen were joined by the farm labourers at night and they sat down with a hogshead of cider at the Priory to drink the health and happiness of the Allen family.

A few days later, Mr. Allen entertained all of his tradesmen, his workmen, and their wives, with a substantial supper at the Rose and Crown Hotel in Hay.

1899 – Death from Excessive Drinking

Evan Howells aged 49 had been drinking heavily for some days, and on Christmas Day when he went upstairs to lie down at about 11 a.m, he fell asleep and never woke up.

His wife Ann Howells, said that Evan had been drinking a great deal and then complained of chest pains; he took spirits to ease things.

Dr. Hincks said that death was due to syncope, brought on by excessive drinking.

Practical Joke goes badly wrong

1798 – Elopement of Wife from Clodock

Mary, the wife of Howell Howells, a carpenter in Clodock, eloped without any cause or provocation (so he said).

Howell Howells therefore put notices out that nobody should give credit to Mary, as he would not pay any of her debts in the future

1893 – Practical Joke leads to Tragedy at Clodock

Five men appeared at the Herefordshire Assizes, charged with killing William Prosser.  They did, by  terrifying him and causing him to be exposed whilst naked in the night time, feloniously kill the man.

The five men were William Davies, 34, a Miller;  Leonard Miles, 32, a Farmer;  John Williams, 21, a farmer;  Walter Griffiths 22, a labourer, and Thomas Jones, 18, a labourer.  Another man, Charles Lewis, 17, a farmer, also stood charged with the manslaughter of William Prosser.

The Pranks Begin

It was said that all the men were highly respectable, but they had been drinking spiced beer at the Cornewall Arms Inn on the night in question, and embarked on a series of pranks.

They rolled one man in the snow, and dipped another in the river Monnow after taking them from their beds, then went on to William Prosser’s cottage.

Prosser heard them coming and jumped out of a window to try to escape but he was caught by the men and rolled in the snow.  Eventually be managed to break free and ran to the Garn farmhouse where he managed to lose the men.

William Prosser Found Dead

Next morning however, he was found dead – hanging by his short and waistcoat on the gate in front of two cottages;  it was later discovered that death was caused by syncope brought on by the cold, exhaustion and fright.

It was said that Prosser was a weakly man with a weak heart, and he had had nothing to eat that day.

Sentencing

All the men pleaded guilty, and the Judge said that it was one of the most serious cases that he had had to deal with.  He took into consideration the good character of each of the prisoners, and said that he realised they did not know what they were doing at the time, but also said that he could never allow drunkenness to be an excuse for a crime.

William Davies and Walter Griffiths were sentenced to three years penal servitude;  Leonard Miles and John Williams were given 18 months imprisonment with hard labour;  and Thomas Jones was given 12 months hard labour.

The Appeal

However, an appeal for mercy given the extreme previous good conduct of the men made the Judge review the sentences.

In the end the sentences were reduced, and Walter Griffiths and William Davies were given imprisonment and hard labour for 12 months;  Leonard Miles, John Williams and Thomas Jones would be imprisoned for 4 months with hard labour, and Charles Lewis was imprisoned for just 3 days given that he had actually tried to stop the others.

1899 – Gun Accident at Clodock

William Davies a Miller aged 41 was the subject of an inquest in December 1899.

A local farmer, William Wilhams went one afternoon to Clodock Mill after being summonsed by the deceased’s son to kill rabbits and saw William Davies outside his door.

William Davies went inside the house to fetch cartridges, leaving Wilhams with his gun (an old converted rifle, which was loaded;  the action was hammerless and could only be carried full cock) and Wilhams then put the butt end of the gun over the mill door with the muzzle pointing into the yard.

A few seconds later, William Davies’ 14 year old daughter came through the door and immediately after that the gun exploded, with the stock swinging round.  The  shocked child said that she had run against the gun, and then William Davies cried out that he had been shot before falling onto his back.

William had been shot in his leg, and helpers put a tourniquet above the wound to stop the bleeding whilst he drifted in and out of consciousness.

The leg subsequently had to be amputated, but he died from shock soon afterwards.

The verdict was accidental death.

1836 – Sad Event at Coddington Rectory

At the end of October 1836, the wife of the Rev. John Hughes M.A. gave birth to a son, who survived for just a few hours.

1847 – The Perils of Gin

John Parker, a waggoner aged 39 and single, in the employ of Mr. Kendrick, went to plough a field. Mr. Kendrick offered him some gin (eh?? in the morning?) and he accepted, then asked for more which was given. Each measure was in a cup which holds nearly two wine glasses, although the cup was not filled to the top.

John then went to get the horses out of the stables, but never returned and was found half an hour later found by Mr. Kendrick lying in the straw. He left John for a couple of hours before going back to check, when he found him with his head tucked into his chest; Mr. Kendrick raised him up but he died in his arms.

Mr. Griffin, a surgeon from Ledbury, opined that death was caused by suffocation from the position that he was in, coupled with the effect of the gin.

1848 – Trespass in Pursuit of Game

Thomas Bowers of Colwall was charged with trespassing on the land of William Calder of Coddington whilst in the pursuit of game. He was fine £1 with 10s costs.

1857 – Fire at Moorfields House

Late one Sunday evening in October, the inhabitants of Ledbury were woken by the ringing of the fire bell, an alarm having been brought by messenger that Moorfields House at Coddington, the residence of Henry Vale, was on fire.

The fire brigade speedily mustered, and two engines set off as fast as they could given the weather. In spite of their lamps, the night was so dark, and the rain came down in such torrents, that galloping was out of the question, and a trot was even dangerous!

They eventually arrived at Moorfields, to discover only a small fire in an attic room, which they quickly put out.

The cause of the fire was thought to have originated from a candle which set light to a servant’s dress hung by the side of the bed.

Henry Vale was not reported in a good light after this incident, as the Hereford Times showed:

“…….having got a regular ducking in Mr. Vale’s service, most of the parties present (nine tenths of whom had travelled nearly five miles in the wet) had an idea that some sort of refreshment would have been provided for them; and such, indeed, was the case, but it was accompanied by an order that those who required cider were to go and wait in the rain in an open courtyard. Some small beer was also provideed for (as Mr. Vale described them) “those who had worked so as to deserve it”, and to crown all, several of the tradesmen of the town who were in the kitchen trying to make themselves comfortable under such distressing circumstances, with a little tobacco, were ignominiously ordered out of the house.

The reporter asked whether it was right that those who went with the intention of doing good to their neighbour should have been treated in such a manner. It was said that if ever a fire happened again at Mr. Vale’s house, he would have to ask further afield for aid.

A most worthy inhabitant of Coddington, in an effort to calm the disgust, directed that those persons “belonging to the lower orders” who had helped with the fire, should be treated with whatever they wanted, and that he would pay for it. This small party of people arrived home in the early hours of the morning, wet, hungry and thirsty without having had any thanks or even acknowledgement of their services from Mr. Vale.

1867 – Sad Death on the Road to the Workhouse

John Price aged 70, had been lodging at Coddington when he decided to admit himself to the Ledbury Workhouse.

A lad named Kendrick obtained a donkey cart in order to take him, and John seemed to be in good health, however just a mile into the journey he got down from the cart and had to be helped back in by the lad and another boy. They put a rug around him, but he became unwell and lay down. At Beggar’s Ash, the lad spoke to him but got no answer, and the old man was found to be dead.

The body was taken to the Master of the Workhouse, and the surgeon, Mr. Griffin, thought that he died from heart disease with which he had suffered for some time.

1871 – Centenarian at Coddington

John Jenkins of Coddington died on 25th March 1871 aged an incredible 107 years.

John had lived with his daughter (herself 85) in a small mud hut near Coddington Cross and was formerly a farm labourer.  He retained all his faculties up until his death, and was a heavy smoker!

1822 – Transportation for Theft

John Crane of Collington was sentenced in January 1822 to transportation for 7 years for the crime of robbing his master.

1847 – Man attacked by Bull

John Parry, bailiff to Mr. Hall of Collington had a very narrow escape after being attacked by a bull that Mr. Hall had bought from Mr. Burrow of Wolverlow.

The bull was a very large and heavy animal, and John was driving it into a building when the bull realised he was not his normal keeper….it whipped round so quickly that John was taken unawares and he was tossed some distance to land against a wall. The very cross animal charged him two or three times, but fortunately for John, the horns mostly went each side of his body – if they hadn’t, he would most certainly have been killed.

Mrs. Hall and some servant girls heard his yells, and as they ran screaming towards the barn the bull became distracted and men were able to drag John away to safety.

John had a broken hip and a badly gashed thigh, and remained incapacitated for some time.

The enraged bull “foamed and tossed the hat of the unfortunate man”, but once the cowman arrived he meekly allowed himself to be driven into the shed.

1858 – Bromyard and Collington Temperance Society

The annual meeting of the above took place on 14th January, with the chair being taken by Mr. Jenks.

The Secretary, Mr. Millard declared satisfaction with the report of the Society. Over 5000 pages of printed matter advocating the benefits of total abstinence were distributed, along with numerous temperance periodicals. Nineteen talks were delivered during the year, which were well attended, and the members who had taken the pledge totalled around 100.

They stated that they had every reason to hope that Bromyard and Collington, so long notorious for over indulgence, would became famous for sobriety and morality.

Hmmmm.!

1858 – Highway Robbery and Attempted Murder

Mr. John Baylis, a farmer from Collington, went to Worcester fair in December 1858 and sold a cow for £29, he also had four sovereigns in his pocket.

After dinner with a friend, Mr. Baylis set off for home in the dark on his horse; presently he came across two men in the road, and drew his horse to the side to get out of their way, but one of the men took hold of his bridle whilst the other grabbed him and pulled him off his horse. He was then beaten around the head with a heavy implement, whilst money was demanded.

Mr. Baylis begged for his life and told them where the money was; they took it and left him for dead in the road. Some time later, Mr. Baylis managed to crawl to the nearest house which was the Sandpits Inn, and called for help. A doctor was summoned, and his injuries were very serious – seven deep cuts to his face and head, and his upper lip was badly cut too. Mr. Hill the surgeon spent many hours dressing the wounds, and his life was very much in the balance.

Some weeks later, Superintendent Phillips apprehended two men, Joseph Tyler, a labourer, and William Bethel a carpenter.

They were remanded in custody to await trial.

1877 – Gruesome Suicide at Collington

Lieutenant Edward Woye Homery of the 3rd Buff Regiment killed himself in “a most determined manner” shortly before his wedding.

He was visiting Mr. Wright of Ripplewood, Collington at the time and rather inconsiderately loaded a double barrelled gun and shot himself in the head, “blowing away the whole of his scalp and scattering his brains about the study floor”.

Leiutenant Homery had suffered severe sunstroke whilst in India a few years previously.

1842 – Unfortunate Death at Colwall

George Freeman, a sixteen year old lad was out with a friend,  when they came across a large butt of a tree which had been sawn off and was left lying on a steep bank.

George decided to roll the butt down the bank and managed to get it started, but in doing so his “frock” caught onto the butt and he was drawn over it and rolled down the bank.

The butt crushed George as it rolled over him and he was killed.

1823 – Toddler dies from Burns

Eliza Thomas aged just two, was left by her mother for just a couple of minutes, and tragically her clothes were set on fire when she ventured too close to the fireplace.

She was so badly burned that she died the next day.

1838 – Ploughing Match

The ploughing match took place at the Hope End farm of Mr. Downing in Cradley. There was three quarters of an acre allotted for each plough and the time allowed was five hours.

Six ploughs competed, and first prize went to Edward Field, ploughman to Mr. Newman, with the work being performed in three hours and 18 minutes.

Second prize was awarded to Richard Archer, ploughman to Mr. Kay, with the work being completed in three hours and 46 minutes.

Third price went to Henry Harrison, ploughman to Mr. Downing, performed in 3 hours and 15 minutes.

Although few people turned up to watch due to the rather inclement weather, there was high hopes that there would be another match the following year, and that it would turn into an annual event.

(ploughing matching in Herefordshire are still going strong, and are hugely popular)

1847 – Gross Assault on a Child

William Harris of Cradley, a thug of a teenager, assaulted an 11 year old girl named Mary Cole by throwing her to the ground and ill treating her.

Fortunately, the poor girl was not far from the cottage of her uncle John Gwillam, who hearing her screams went outside and saw Harris holding her. John Gwillam thumped him so hard he was knocked down, but after regaining his feet he jumped a gate and ran off.

William Harris was convicted and given the highest penalty allowed for the incident, which was £5 – he defaulted and was sent to Hereford gaol for two months hard labour.

1851 – Terrific Storm at Cradley

On Wednesday 30th April 1851, a terrifying storm crossed Cradley and one family had rather a lucky escape.

Mrs. Arden, her mother and four children were gathered around the fire when a lightening bolt came down the chimney and exploded around the room.

It destroyed the fireplace, and three of the children were thrown across the floor, but thankfully apart from a few bruises and shock, nobody was badly hurt.

1852 – Roadside Theft

In July 1852 Paul Bannister was walking home with his wife when he decided to stop for a wee by the side of the road. He gave his walking stick to his wife and told her to keep walking and he would catch up.

Whilst standing by the road, Caroline Edwards, a tramping girl, ran up and took some money from his pocket, which she immediately handed over to her accomplice who then knocked Paul Bannister down and ran away. Paul however was niftier than his walking stick would suggest, and he caught the girl and held her until assistance arrived.

1854 – Serious Accident at Cradley

Daniel Hill, William Oakley and Thomas Jenkins, all labourers, were removing soil from an excavation when a large amount of earth suddenly fell on top of them, burying William and Daniel.

They were dug out, but both had serious injuries and were taken to Worcester Infirmary. Daniel’s hip was dislocated, William had broken both bones of one leg and also his shoulder blade, but Thomas escaped lightly with a contused knee and foot.

1862 – Drunk and Disorderly

In January 1862 William Hodges and Thomas Hogg of Cradley were charged by P.C. Dallow with being drunk and fighting in the turnpike road at Cradley on 24th December 1861 (Christmas Eve good cheer!).

They were given a ticking off and let off by paying 8s each expenses.

1847 – Capture of Serial Thieves at Craswall

On 26th June, the house of Mr. Thomas Gains of Craswall was broken into, and several items were stolen: three new shirts partly made; a shawl, and some fowls.

Mr. Gains on discovering the thefts in the morning, set off after the thieves and after asking around discovered that five people had passed through Craswall on the road to Hay and he passed the information on to Constable J. Morris, who knew well the haunts of such characters.

Eventually he found them in the lodging house of W. Price in Hay, and took them into custody, whereupon he discovered some of the stolen property in their “bundles”.

The evidence was so conclusive that the thieves were committed for trial in Hereford, and many of the farmers in the area were extremely pleased having suffered considerable losses of property, particularly from the poultry stores.

1859 – Suicide of Domestic Servant at Craswall

H. Underwood, Coroner, held an inquest on the body of Eliza Seaborne aged 18.

She had been a servant at Mr. Parry’s, The Cwm, and had been depressed for some time following something that had happened to her sister. She had told Samuel Hughes, a farm servant, that “she wished she was out of the way”.

On the morning of her death, she had carried out her duties as normal, and nobody noticed anything strange about her; her employer later found her hanging by a halter in the barn, and although Mrs. Parry took her down and had her taken into the house, it was too late and Mr. C.P. Price the surgeon, certified her death.

1860 – Cowardly Assault

James Jenkins of Craswall was charged with assaulting Mrs. Mary Watkins, also of Craswall.

Jenkins was a tenant of Mrs. Watkins and had fallen behind with the rent, when she went to the house to ask for payment she found that Jenkins was moving many of his possessions away by horse and cart, which “rose the complainant’s steam”. She caught hold of the reins to stop Jenkins from removing his goods without paying the rent due, and demanded that he paid her immediately.

Jenkins in reply said “he would see her flaming in a very warm place first”, and kicked her hard on the hip, which event was witnessed by to people.

The magistrates were not impressed with his violence, and said that it was even worse because he was trying to defraud her by removing his goods and evading payment.

They said that they thought the 5s fine and 35s expenses would make him more careful in future, or if he failed to pay, a term of one month in the County Gaol, which latter alternative Jenkins appeared to prefer.

1863 – Earthquake in the Golden Valley

The following report was in the Hereford Times on Saturday 10th October 1863:

“On Tuesday morning about half past 3 o’clock, a very severe and alarming shock of earthquake was felt by the inhabitants of the entire neighbourhood, extending itself throughout Dorstone, Craswall, Michaelchurch, St. Margaret’s, Turnastone and Vowchurch. Numbers were aroused from their peaceful slumbers by their houses being violently shaken, their beds rocked like a cradle, and earthenware and glasses rattling on the shelves as if everything was being torn to pieces. Some were tossed from side to side in their beds, and some thrown completely on the boards; articles of furniture were tossed about and fell in disorder on the floor.

Many instances arose where persons threw open their windows calling out to know what was the matter; others cried out for mercy, thinking that the last day was come; some who had risen early to engage in their daily calling were overpowered with fear, not knowing where to go nor what to do, being dreadfully alarmed by the roaring noise and terrible shaking of the earth.

Animals were running about and dogs howling. We hear of some houses being damaged by the violent shaking; nothing equal to it was ever experienced by the inhabitants before”

1844 – Sudden death at Credenhill

Ann Kyrwood, a married woman, thoroughly enjoyed a hearty supper one evening then keeled over and died.

It seems that she was epileptic, and her husband had been told to expect this sad occurrence.

1856 – Husband Absconds

William Nichols, an agricultural labourer from Credenhill, absconded from the Parish leaving a wife and four children.

£1 reward was offered to anyone with information that would lead to Nichols’ apprehension; he was described as about 34 years of age, 5 feet 11 inches tall, rather dark in complexion with some missing front teeth.

He was thought to have gone into Wales.

1862 – Progress of new Hereford, Hay and Brecon Railway

In June 1862, the work on this railway was progressing well despite poor weather.

A new engine, named “Hereford” had been on the line for a week, working hard to expedite the work of ballasting and removing earth. This engine was from the works of Messrs. Manning, Wardle and Co. of Leeds, and was a tank engine with three pairs of low wheels which enabled it to travel over the uneven gradients of the temporary rails with ease.

A double set of rails had been permanently laid, and the ballasting was nearly finished for a distance of three quarters of a mile from the junction with the loop line at Hereford. At the commencement of that distance the single line of rails started which had been laid as far as the ballast hill at Credenhill.

Completion of the line was expected to be rapid, and beyond Credenhill the line was said to be ready for the permanent way as far as the great cutting at Norton Canon. Mr. Sharp, the enterprising agent to Mr. Savin the contractor, intended to run temporary rails round the ballast hill in order to convey the materials for laying the permanent way beyond Credenhill.

The bridges that were built were “of unusual solidity”. The Three Elms bridge by which the road is carried over the railway, near the locality which was known as “the Dead Bridge” was nearly finished and was a huge structure on top of which would be wrought iron. The surrounding land had been greatly improved by straightening the meandering brook amongst other landscaping work. Stretton Bridge had already been completed, and traffic had been using it for some time.

The last bridge to be constructed on this section of the railway was to be at the old Roman Road at Credenhill.

There was to be a station at Credenhill and another at Morehampton on this first section of the railway.

1863 – The new Hereford, Hay, Brecon Railway Line is Opened

The powerful and very large engine “Alexandra” set off from the temporary station at Moorfields towards Eardisley, decorated on each side of the boiler with a number of flags and draped in wreaths of flowers.

There were nine carriages, but because it was the same days as the re-opening of Hereford Cathedral there were only a few passengers, however this did not seem to detract from the occasion. On starting, a number of fog signals were exploded and at Credenhill the station and signal posts were decorated with flags.

The train travelled on time, and at Eardisley lots of people gathered to see the first railway train, some of them deciding to ride it to Hereford for the Cathedral opening. The refreshment rooms at Eardisley, run by Miss Beavan of Hay, were full of excellent fare and she did a roaring trade.

The line was to be managed by Mr. George Findlay, whose commercial sense made sure that all of the trains on the line would include lst, 2nd and 3rd class carriages, and also that fares would be reasonable.

Public thanks were given to Messrs Savin and Ward for their rescue of the company, and it was said that everyone agreed it was one of the best made lines in the kingdom, for which praise was due to Mr. Sharpe, the representative for the above gentlemen.

1851 – Desertion of Newborn Baby

In early June 1851, a baby aged just a few hours was found in Cusop by some lads. The child was wrapped in a handkerchief and some underclothes of a woman “about the middle size” and lying in a brake or dingle called Baynam’s Dingle.

The baby was taken straight to the Workhouse, where one of the inmates who was feeding her own child, immediately took it to suckle, whereupon it very quickly revived.

Superintendent Kentish and his assistants tried very hard to find the mother, but without success.

1851 – Transportation for Horse Theft

Thomas Gwillim, a horse dealer, pleaded guilty to having stolen at Cusop a chestnut mare which belonged to Thomas Howells of Hay.

He was sentenced to be transported for seven years.

1858 – A Good Time had at June Fair

Henry Winstone, a labourer living at Cusop, along with “Stumpy” of Hay and John Williams also of Hay, were charged by Sergeant Basham with being drunk at Hay on 14th June 1858. They were each fined 5s with costs.

William Jenkins, a labourer from Cusop, was also charged with drunkeness on 15th June, and he too was fined 5s with costs.

1861 – Death of a Distinguished Painter at Cusop

In January 1861, Mr. Thomas Lindsay of Cusop was “attacked by paralysis”, and he died some two weeks later.

He was a distinguished member of the “New Society of Painters in Watercolours in London”, and he was a frequent and successful exhibitor. His scenes of Welsh landscapes were very well received. He was also an accomplished musician.

A hugely popular man, he was to be very sadly missed.

1874 – Quadruplets for Cusop Woman

The wife of an impoverished toll keeper gave birth to four babies – an incredibly rare event for the time – but only two survived.

It was said that the father was happy but more than a little confused!

1894 – Death after Excessive Drinking

John Altree, a 64 year old farmer had been attending the Hay market along with two other farmers.

All of them had been drinking heavily throughout the day and then climbed on their horses to ride home to Cusop.

A Mr. Williams was coming along the road in his farm cart, and at various points picked the three men up from the ground and put them in his cart – all were extremely drunk, but it later transpired that John Altree had been out of sorts for a few weeks and had in fact not eaten anything that day.

Some way along the road, it was discovered that John had died and he was removed from the cart and put at the side of the road where a Surgeon later made an examination.

A verdict of death by natural causes was returned.

1900 – Vicar Dies During Service at Cusop

The Rev. George Dermer Pagdon, aged just 47, was conducting Sunday service and had just climbed into the pulpit to deliver his sermon when he staggered and fell.

He was taken to the vestry but a doctor pronounced him dead.

George Pagden  had been ordained in 1877 and had been Rector at Cusop for six years and had made many good friends there during that time.

The post mortem revealed that he had a “fatty heart” and a distended stomach, but no direct cause of death found.

A verdict of death from natural causes was returned.

1844 – Underweight Butter Seized at Dewsall

The Inspector of Weights and Measures, Mr. James, seized a large amount of butter from Mr. Price of Dewsall, having found it to be well under the weight it was advertised as being.

Mr. Price pleaded ignorance to the deficit, and blamed the scales, but the magistrate said that the butter must be forfeited despite this because had it been sold it would have the poorer people who would have suffered most.

The butter, amounting to about 9lbs, was given to the poor of the district.

1854 – Never Trust a Bull

John Handcocks, 55 and unmarried, worked for Daniel Pearce of Monkall in the parish of Much Dewchurch and was in charge of the cattle.

He was ordered to take a bull, which had never been led by the halter before, to the Hill of Eaton near Ross, and another man, Edwin Watkins was to accompany him. Daniel Pearce initially walked with them, but because the bull seemed well behaved he turned round and went home. Mr. Pearce had owned the bull for some time, and it had never shown any aggression.

On went the pair with the bull, and all was fine and dandy until they came to a meadow in Dewsall belonging to the Vicar, when the animal started to play up…….he was restless and threatening, so John Handcocks tried to calm him by scratching his face, but to no avail and eventually in self defence John started to hit the bull around the head to keep him away.

The bull totally lost its temper and charged at its handler, knocking him down before kneeling on him. Not content with this, the bull proceeded to try to gore John with his horns, and the poor man pleaded with Edwin to help him.

Having no stick, Edwin started to pelt the enraged animal with stones (not designed to calm it down one would think) which diverted attention and eventually he was able to safely drive it away from John. However, poor John could not feel his legs at this stage and had to be carried to a nearby house, where he kept saying that it was his fault for scratching the bull’s head.

John was sent by horse and cart to the Infirmary, and the bull was taken back to the Monkhall with no further problems.

Sadly John Handcocks was completely paralysed from the waist down and had difficulty breathing, and shortly after his admittance to the Infirmary he died.

1856 – Assault on Girlfriend’s Mother

James Lewis, a labourer of Dewsall was charged with assaulting Mrs. Susan Trumper of Allensmore.

James had fallen in love with Emma, but her mother, Susan Trumper, was not happy with the relationship and tried to put a stop to it.

James was not happy – he lost his temper and threw Mrs. Trumper to the floor, then threatened to kill her with a knife. Mr. Trumper intervened and took the knife from him, but James was desperate and falling to his knees, implored Emma to marry him.

The magistrates sadly had no romance in their souls and fined him heavily.

1856 – Death of Rev Thomas Phillipps’ Daughter at Dewsall

Emma, aged just nine years, second daughter of the Rev. Thomas Phillips, Vicar of Dewsall, died.

1858 – The Vicar gives Children Tea and Cake then suffers another devastating loss at Dewsall

The Rev. T. Phillips (also reported as “Phillipps) and his wife and daughter entertained the children of Callow and Dewsall with tea and plum cake on the rectory lawn.

In return, the children sang their school songs, and everyone enjoyed themselves.

It is particularly sad in view of this happy scene, that some 7 years later in 1865, Anthony Phillips the son of the Rev. Phillips and his wife, drowned whilst swimming at Tenby on holiday.

He was 16 and had just left school with a promising career ahead of him, but it seems that he went for a swim with his brother and a friend named Sparks. The sea was rough, and Sparks got into some difficulties so Anthony’s brother went to held him, whilst yelling to Anthony to get back to land. Unfortunately, as still happens these days, the current and roughness of the sea were too much, and Anthony was carried out to sea.

1860 – Summoned for Stealing Sticks

Ellen Wood, the wife of a waggoner (sorry for the spelling, but that’s how it was) who earned just 8s a week and had to support a family of five, was summoned for taking sticks belonging to the proprietors of Guy’s Hospital, Dewsall.

She was fined 1d, with 6d damages and costs of 16s and 6d.

1799 – Transported for Stealing

(kindly supplied by Mike Walsh, Dilwynian_

Ann Pugh was born in 1774 in Dilwyn bagged herself quite a haul of clothes and shoes, as well as money and for her pains found herself at the Herefordshire Summer Assizes on 16th July 1799.

She and another woman, Ann Davies were convicted of grand larceny and were sentenced to be transported to “parts beyond the seas” for seven years.

In Australia, Ann met and married John Nichols and the couple went on to have 13 children.  She eventually died in 1849 in New South Wales, aged 75.

1846 – Dilwyn Annual Races

As reported in the Hereford Journal:

“On Monday 14th September will be run for on Dilwyn Common, a sweepstakes of one sovereign each, with not less than seven sovereigns added from the fund, free for any horse, mare or gelding, that never started for any Plate, Match or Sweepstakes of the value of fifty pounds at any one time; such horse mare or gelding to be the bona fide property of the owner at least two months previous to 14th September, and such owner to reside within thirty miles of Dilwyn.

Three year olds to carry 7st 10lbs; four, 8st 4lb; five, 9st 4lb. A winner once this year to carry 3lb extra; twice 7lb extra.

A Hackney race of ten shillings each, with not less than three sovereigns added from the funds; the owner to reside within six miles of Dilwyn. Entrance 7s 6d for each horse.

Also on the same day will be run for a purse of not less than two sovereigns, free for any pony not exceeding 13 hands high that never won ten pounds at any one time, to carry catch weight.”

1859 – The first traffic warden?

John Davies and George Palmer, both of Dilwyn, were fined for separate offences of parking a wagon on the turnpike road for longer than was necessary for the purpose of loading or unloading.

1859 – Dispute settled with buckets of Water

Ann Abley, wife of Martin Abley of Dilwyn, was fine 9s 6d plus 10s 6d costs, for chucking three buckets of water over James Bowyer, also of Dilwyn.

It was Ann’s way of settling a dispute and “washing out” an old grievance.

1863 – Coming of Age of Lacon Lambe

For Lacon Lambe’s birthday on May 16th, the tenants of his father Dr. Lambe’s estate at Dilwyn determined to thoroughly celebrate the day.

The church bells started ringing early in the morning, and the village was decorated with arches of flowers and evergreens. A banquet was prepared for all the tenants, farm labourers, and also some old servants, as well as friends and tradesmen employed by Dr. Lambe. All in all about 70 sat down to eat in a beautifully decorated room.

Out on the lawns there was dancing, whilst the bells continued to ring, and eventually tea, with good plum cake, was served to hundreds outside.

During the evening, the beef remaining from the earlier meal was distributed along with chunks of bread to 60 people who had won the honour by raffle, and oranges and cake was given to the children.

Everyone went home happy and respectful of Dr. Lambe for his generosity, and it was hoped that his son would turn out to be of the same cloth.

Strangely, there was absolutely no mention in the write up of the birthday boy!!

1863 – Destructive Fire at Dilwyn

A fire broke out at Alton Court about a mile from Dilwyn and owned by Mr. Stephen Dent. It was thought to have been started when a steam threshing machine sent sparks into the buildings.

On discovery of the fire, a mounted messenger was sent to Leominster for the fire engine, whilst people from near and far rushed to help with putting out the flames.

Unfortunately, all efforts were in vain and by the time the firemen arrive the barn and many other buildings were destroyed. Eleven calves were moved to another building, in which was stored a large amount of hay, and the fire moved steadily towards this barn. The remedy was to cut away a large portion of the building, whilst a strong jet of water from the engine cleared the roof of tiles. With manual help, a gap was made so that the fire could not move further.

Thankfully, no animals were harmed but the fire engine was kept working until the following day. The building was insured.

1889 – Another Destructive Farm Fire

This fire broke out during the morning at Little Dilwyn Farm, occupied by Thomas H. Griffiths – most of the previous year’s produce was destroyed.

The fire started in the rickyard by the farm buildings, when a pipe in the boiler of a threshing machine burst, shooting flames in all directions. A nearby peastack instantly was ablaze, and several men and two women who were perched on top engaged in “pitching” into the thresher, were in grave danger. One woman didn’t wait for a ladder to be brought, and jumped off the stack – it was some 15 feet to the ground, but she escaped unhurt.

Thomas Griffiths was standing next to the engine, and his hair caught fire, but he too was not seriously injured.

Two mounted messengers raced to Hereford and Leominster for the fire brigade, but by the time they arrived the ricks and two barns were one mass of fire, and the threshing machine was destroyed. Fortunately, due to a good local supply of water, the remaining buildings were saved; the peas which were the produce of 17 acres, were lost, as well as all the wheat.

The property was fully insured, but sadly the threshing machine was not.

1830 – Rabies comes to Dinedor

In December 1830 it was reported that a rabid dog had been seen near Dinedor, and that a child and a pig had been bitten by the animal.

Several cases of rabies had been confirmed in nearby Monmouthshire, and there were many reports of rabid dogs wandering the countryside, with several people being bitten.

1835 – Lines Written on Dinedor Hill

Sweet spot of song!  I seek thy breast

To muse awhile, unchecked and free;

As wearied birds that seek a nest,

and shelter neath some spreading tree,

I come to lose the sense of ill,

Amid thy shades, sweet Dinedor Hill.

Far from life’s crowd and clamour rude,

With wearied frame and fevered brow;

My spirit courts thy solitude,

Since the gay throng forsakes thee now,

and all around is hushed and still

Save my lone step on Dinedor Hill.

Joy haunted spot!  remembrance turns

Far from this scene of peace and thee,

The bounds of time fond fancy spurns,

and brings me back to childhood’s glee,

And hours when I have ranged at will

In boyhood’s bloom on Dinedor Hill.

Sweet spot of song!  When I am gone,

Some loftier Bard may wake thy praise;

Haply while musing thus alone,

He flies the “hum of men” to gaze

On nature;  spoil her how they will,

She’ll still be queen on Dinedor Hill.

1837 – More Verse on Dinedor

Dinedore! in childhood’s careless hour

I joy’d thy brow to gain,

In triumph snatched a token flower

To prove my toil not vain.

But soon with other eyes I went

O’er traces of past ages bent,

On nature’s treasures gazed intent,

Till from thy haunts my ripened fancy drew

Treasures exhaustless yet, and interest every new.

Sweet crested upland!  beauteous knoll!

Loved in life’s early stage,

So as the dark years downward roll,

The solace of my age;

Still let me find some unknown nook,

Still by thy side read nature’s book

Still on the varied landscape look –

The leafy ringlets round thy summit curled,

and spreading at they feet, the garden of the world.

1851 – Accidental Death of Dinedore Man

John Cotterell of Dinedor was working on the estate of C.T. Bodenham of Rotherwas, raising gravel.

He was undermining the gravel, and was repeatedly warned of the danger of doing this – he ignored everyone who was concerned for his safety, and eventually a huge mass of gravel fell down, burying him almost completely.

When John was finally dug out he was taken to Hereford Infirmary, where he lived for a few hours.  The post mortem revealed that he had a broken right thigh;  badly bruised  back and broken spine, and a shattered pelvis.

1853 – Deaths on The Hereford and Gloucester Railway Works at Dinedore

In July 1853, John Baker, a married man of Hampton Bishop had taken the job of constructing a road to a quarry in Dinedor, in connection with the Hereford and Gloucester Railway Works.  He had employed two men, Vines and Harpurhy.

One evening, the man named Vines heard John shout out “look up” and as he heeded the warning he saw John trying to run away from an earth slip, but he was not quick enough and was jammed against the “batter”.  He was pleading for help to be got out, and several men rushed to help but he died soon afterwards.

Vines said at the inquest that he thought John was not careful enough, and that several times they had all nearly been killed.

The following year, a workman named Joseph Matthews was employed at the Dinedor tunnel on the railway, and was engaged in letting down a “rib” weighing around 30cwt to which a rope was attached and fixed to another “rib” which had been secured.

For some reason, the rib slipped and fell against the head and shoulders of Joseph, so that he was violently knocked over against another rib.  He was killed outright, and it was supposed that the neck was compressed between the two pieces of timber causing strangulation.

1854 – Child Burnt at Dinedore

Unfortunately, no village in Herefordshire seems to escape from terrible news such as this.

One afternoon, Mrs. Lewis of Dinedore went to Hereford market, leaving her three children in the house, with the eldest, a 9 year old, in charge.

At some time between 5 and 6 in the afternoon, five year old James Lewis put the kettle on to prepare tea for his mother’s return and his clothes accidentally caught fire – he was soon engulfed in flames.

Maria Meredith, a neighbour passed by shortly afterwards and smelled smoke, but on trying the door found it to be locked;  the eldest girl pushed the key under the door, and on entering the house she was confronted with the dreadful sight of the poor boy on his hands and knees, quite dead.  The youngest child was huddled in the corner behind the sofa, very frightened.

No medical help was sought, it clearly being of no use.

1863 – Suicide at Dinedore

William Parry was a thirty six year old man, married to Mary with two small boys.

William was a stone mason by trade, but in 1863 found work hard to come by and became rather depressed.  He was devastated that he could barely earn enough to support his family in their house at Dinedore, but his wife Mary never realised how upset he really was, even though he had been to the Dispensary asking for something to help his state of mind.

One evening in November 1863, he appeared to be very restless, and got up early the next monring to light the fire before eating a big breakfast.  He then went to see his invalid father in law, dressed him and gave him breakfast; and performed some daily duties including massaging his wife’s arms because she had been ill and they hurt somewhat.

William then left the house, giving Mary a long hard last look and that was the last time she saw him alive.  When he had been gone for a while, she sent one of her children to find him, and the child came back and said that his father was in the barn but wouldn’t talk.  Poor Mary rushed to the bar, to find William hanging from the roof.

The jury at the inquest returned a verdict that “he hung himself whilst labouring under temporary derangement of the mind”.

1896 – Husband kills wife by Accident at Dinedor

William Jones, alias Ravenhill, was working in the garden with two other men;  his wife Kate approached him, baby in arms,  and accused him of taking too much cider……further, she threatened to open the tap on the barrel rather than let him drink it.

William, aged 33, was somewhat annoyed about this.

He had a jug of cider in his hand at the time, and in temper he threw it at her – unfortunately the jug hit Kate on the head opening up a large wound which started to gush blood.

Kate tried to get back into the house, but collapsed before reaching the door – when a neighbour rushed to help, Kate said “I am done for” before dying.

She was 30 years old and left three children including a young baby.

William was arrested, and the post mortem on Kate showed that the blow had fractured her skull, driving a piece of bone into the brain and cutting an artery.

A verdict of manslaughter was returned.

1835 – Wrestling at Docklow Ends in Death

Thomas Passey, a Mason was charged with the manslaughter of James Davies at Docklow.

The Fighting

During a feast held at Docklow , James Davies wrestled with the accused’s father, whom he threw twice.   James’s “manager” said that he had fought enough and won well and should not do any more, however James challenged Thomas Passey to a fight.

Thomas declined at first, but eventually accepted the challenge and both parties stripped then fought several rounds which lasted for half an hour.

Thomas wanted to stop, but James refused to give in and they fought for many more gruelling rounds before James collapsed unconscious.

Medical aid was immediately given, and he was bled, but he never regained consciousness and died some hours later.

Post Mortem

The post mortem revealed that James had a great deal of blood about the head, and the surgeon thought that he may have been in such a high state of excitement through fighting that he ruptured blood vessels, but that the bruising on the temple from blows was the immediate cause of death.

Many well respected people gave Thomas an excellent character reference, and the jury without hesitation acquitted him.

1841 – Violent Assault at Docklow

Edward Adams of Docklow was charged with violently assaulting his sister Mary.

Mary said that Edward had often treated her badly, that on 8th November he had beaten her so that she was afraid he would kill her.

In his defence, Edward admitted the assault but said that he had looked after his mother and sister for thirty years, but that his sister now wanted the house for herself. To this end, she had constantly provoked him to make him lose his temper, so that he would be turned off the premises.

The magistrate told both of them off, but bound Edward in £20 to keep the peace for 12 months, and to pay the costs.

1851 – Girl Drowns in Well at Dockow

Elizabeth Griffiths, 20 year old daughter of Thomas Griffiths of Docklow, was an epileptic, suffering with daily fits.

There was an open well in a garden adjacent to their cottage, with about a six foot drop to the water which was roughly twelve feet deep. The owner of the cottage and land kept promising to cover the well because a woman had drowned in there before, but he never got round to it.

One Friday, Elizabeth’s sister, Mary, went to find her father Thomas to say that Elizabeth was missing – for some reason he immediately thought of the well, but Mary said that they had already looked there to no avail.

Thomas went to look for himself, and using a long pole with a hook eventually brought up Elizabeth’s body. The verdict was accidentally drowned.

1854 – Accidental Shooting at Docklow

John Staples, a boy of 12, was killed when in the kitchen along with a servant girl and the waggoner.

The waggoner picked up the loaded gun and joked with the boy that he was going to shoot him;  meanwhile the servant girl went upstairs, leaving John doing up his boots.

As soon as the girl left the room she heard the gun go off, and when a neighbour ran to see what was going on, he found the lad dead in the chair with his face more or less blown off……..the waggoner was standing near but no longer holding the gunwhich was on the windowsill.  He claimed that the boy had shot himself, but when it was pointed out that it was impossible given that the gun was nowhere near him, he ran off and was not seen again.

It was not believed to have been a deliberate act, more an accidental discharge of the gun and the jury returned a verdict of accidental death.

1867 – Docklow Academy

Docklow Academy resumed its business on Friday January 25th under the management of Mr. Upton, who had successfully run the school for 20 years.

Docklow Academy had been established for 33 years, and was in glorious grounds; it was also said to be one of the healthiest spots in Herefordshire.

The number of pupils was limited to 20, with a fee varying from 16 guineas to 30 guineas per annum, payable in advance.  Extras were Languages;  Music and dancing.

1901 – Violent Customer at The King’s Head, Docklow

Samuel West, alias William West, went into the King’s Head at around 8 in the evening, calling for a pint of beer.

The landlord, William Evans, noticed that he was already drunk and refused to give him the pint, whereupon Samuel West went into the taproom and demanded a bottle of ginger beer, saying that he had walked three miles to get there.

When this request was also refused, Samuel became abusive, swearing and threatening violence…….this threat was soon carried out, and William Evans was punched in the face.  William pushed Samuel to the floor, then shoved him out of the pub.

Samuel said that he would smash the windows, and indeed did so – using a large stone from the wall.  He followed this with several more stones, then smashed the outside lamp.

At the court hearing, P.C. Williams said that he found Samuel on the main road to Stoke Prior, and on challenging him was told that it was the landlord’s fault for not letting him have a bottle of ginger beer.

It turned out that Samuel had a long list of previous convictions, and he was sentenced to 14 days hard labour on each charge.  Samuel wanted to know if the sentences were to run concurrently or consecutively and was told that they would be consecutively.

His reply was “Oh”

1804 – Stolen or Strayed, massive Reward Offered

The following advertisement appeared in the Hereford Journal on 4th July 1804. The money involved for the reward was enormous.

“Stolen or strayed from a field at Dormington near Hereford on Sunday 1st July,

A dark brown mare of the nag kind, about fifteen hands high, five years old, in good condition, has no white on her legs, has a rowel mark on the inside of the left thigh, a small swelling on the outside the near leg behind, a small star in the forehead, a thick blood tail, several saddle and girth marks, goes rather wide behind. Shoes marked T.E.

Whoever will give information of the same to Mr. Vevers at Dormington, or Thomas Maddy at Madley, so that she may be had again, shall be handsomely rewarded; and if stolen, on conviction of the offender or offenders, shall receive a reward of twenty guineas over and above what is allowed by Act Of Parliament, by applying to either of the above.

1820 – Dormington Lime Kilns

The public were respectfully informed that the Dormington Lime Kilns were now working, and that orders would be taken at the bar of the Black Swan every Saturday.

1844 – Landslip at Dormington

Reported in the Greenock Advertiser:

“During the night of Friday last, an unusual and remarkable occurrence took place on Claston Estate in the parish of Dormington, Herefordshire, the property of Edward Foley Esq. of Stoke Edith Park.

A large piece of land, consisting of more than three acres of rock and earth, with 40 oak trees, slipped down Dadnor’s Hill a distance of 200 yards into the valley beneath, and now presents a very curious appearance, the projected masses of rock forming fantastic shapes of caverns etc. and some of the trees remaining upright as if growing. From the ground cracking, there had been previous indication of the coming slip, and no doubt the wet weather hastened the result.

The damage occasioned by the occurrence is estimated at £150.

The event has given rise to a variety of alarming reports about an earthquake, but we have stated the real nature of the incident above.”

1848 – Sudden death of John Mitton

John Mitton was an old and well trusted servant of Richard Webb at Dormington Hall, where he had been in service as farming bailiff for 14 years, and had been well respected by his fellow servants.

John was taken ill on 24th March 1848, whilst walking along the road, and although kindly assistance was offered he declined saying that he would try to get home. Shortly afterwards he was found in the hedge unconscious, and although he was picked up and put in a cart, he died very shortly afterwards.

The jury returned a verdict of “died by the visitation of God”.

1848 – Steeplechaser “Charity”

The renowned horse Charity was put down at Dormington Court on 3rd March – the anniverary of his last race win at Liverpool in 1841.

He had won 24 races, thirteen for his last owner and was by Woodman out of a dam by Grimaldi.

The plates he had on when winning the Liverpool were buried with him, and all that was kept back was a piece of mane which his groom wanted to keep.

1852 – Floods at Dormington

Torrential rain in November flooded much of Herefordshire so that travel became difficult and dangerous, and the Hereford/Gloucester Mail Coach was lost in the River Lugg at Dormington; one passenger died, and two others along with the guard and coachman only just escaped with their lives.

The three passengers were Mr. Thomas Hardwick, solicitor; Mr. W.S. Allen, a Birmingham solicitor, and a young man from Norwich who was up on the box with the coachman, Charles Murphy.

Late afternoon, after negotiating horrendous conditions, the coach came to the bridge over the river, and of course it was dark so the coachman was unable to see until it was too late that the bridge had in fact been washed away by the floods. Coach, horses and passengers were carried downstream by the strong current, until their cries were heard by James Taylor of Longworth Lodge, who along with neighbours set about trying to rescue them.

It was long, arduous and distressing work in the dark with just lanterns to help them see, and although they managed to save some of the mail and luggage, Thomas Hardwick died from exhaustion and exposure.

The coachman, Charles Murphy, was so shaken by the event that it took him a long time to get over it, but he did continue as driver of the Hereford and Hay Mail coach and was much respected for his “civil and obliging demeanour”.

1853 – The shameful Petitions

Mr. King King presented petitions from the parishes of Dormington and Orleton in Herefordshire, against the admission of Jews into Parliament.

1854 – Sudden death of Emanuel Treherne

Emanuel Treherne was a labourer in the employment of Mr. Hodges at Dormington, and had appeared to be quite well early in the morning of his death, but was found dying in a ditch just two hours later.

He died before the surgeon arrived, but he had been labouring with heart disease for some time and a verdict to that effect was returned.

1904 – Serial Horse Thief

Joshua Lovell aged 20 was charged with stealing a gelding belonging to Charles Fox of Dormington; also a donkey owned by Mary Hailes of Ross on Wye, and also with stealing a horse the property of John Payton, Upon on Severn.

It was alleged that Joshua, whilst in the South African War, deserted and stole a horse from a Boer farmer.

The court concluded that Joshua had a rather bad record and gave him eighteen months hard labour.

The original rectory in this glorious picturesque village was built around 1300, and the building was extended in the 16th and 17th centuries. Unfortunately it is now in a state of extreme disrepair, so if your ancestors lived or worked here then pay a visit quickly in case it has to be demolished!

Churches of Eardisland

• St. Mary the Virgin Church - Eardisland

  A beautiful church, in a glorious village – if your ancestors had connections with this Norman church then you are so lucky!

   

  

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

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  Memorials

  William Evans of Burton Court

  Sacred to the memory of William Evans Esq., of Burton Court in this Parish. Third son of Arthur Evans Esq. formerly of Buckland in this County. He departed this life the 10th day of May 1822 in the 62 year of his age. Also of Margaret his wife, eldest surviving daughter and coheiress of John Brewster Esq. She died 9th day of December 1822 in the 61 year of her age.

   

  

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  James Kinnersley

  In memory of James Kinnersley Esq. of the Lynch in this Parish who died Nov. XIV MDCCXCVIII aged LXXVI. Also of his son James Kinnersley Esq. who departed this life March V MDCCCIV aged L.

   

   

  

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  Mary Meredith

  Near this place lieth the body of Mary, the wife of Thomas Meredith. She departed this life October 14 1767 aged 64

   

   

  

   

   

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Buildings in Eardisland

• Burton Court History

  The Manor of Burton Court dates from around the 11th century, but the present house originated in the 14th century with rebuilds in the nineteenth century. Further work was carried out in 1912. The following photograph was kindly provided by Edward Simpson of Burton Court, which is enjoying a new lease of life as a hugely popular venue for weddings, as well as providing facilities for conferences etc.

  

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

  If you are ever in the area, then a guided tour would not only fill a few pleasant hours, but would also help bring the history of this lovely building to life.

   

  The Brewster family at Burton Court

  The Brewster family appeared in mid 17th century, and it was John Brewster from neighbouring Gloucestershire who bought Burton court in April 1662.  He and his wife Margaret had two sons, William and John, William was described as “middle sized, lame, and stump footed” which might account for the fact that he became scholarly rather than pursuing energetic outdoor activities, and which resulted in him becoming  the well known Dr William Brewster of Hereford who was an eminent scholar with an impressive collection of important books.   He  died in 1715 leaving many of these books to All Saints Church Hereford, where they formed the famous chained library which can now be seen in Hereford Cathedral, where he himself was buried.

  Margaret died when William was only three and a half years old, and she was buried at Eardisland on 18th April 1669, following which her widower John took himself a new, and much younger, wife in the shape of Blanche Howarth and they duly had a daughter, Elizabeth, followed by three more children.

   

  Painting by unknown  artist of Elizabeth Brewster, dated 1690.  Please note the wording attached to the painting, as it is one of the few images on this site that cannot be freely taken.

   

  

   

   

   

  Reproduced by permission of Hereford Museum and Art Gallery, Hereford Museum Service. Please contact the museum for permission to use this image herefordmuseums@herefordshire.gov.uk

   

   

   

   

   

  John had settled Burton Court on this second wife, Blanche shortly after the birth of their first daughter, and after his death on 10th May 1684 he was buried in Eardisland Parish Church near to the grave of his first wife.

  Blanche Brewster

  Blanche was Lady of the Manor of Burton as stipulated by John, and she remarried two years after his death, her new husband being Thomas de la Hay of Peterchurch, a widower.  After this second husband died, in 1698 she settled Burton Court on her son Benjamin and upon his marriage he took up residence.  They had three sons, and one daughter although they tragically lost their second son in 1706.

  Benjamin died in 1737, and his wife shortly afterwards, and there followed a line of succession of Brewsters residing at Burton Court, until in 1774 John Brewster was left as the last surviving male member of the family at Burton Court where he lived with his ageing mother, Margaret;  his wife Anne and daughters Margaret and Anna.

  The Evans family at Burton Court

  In 1782, daughter Margaret married William Evans, son of Arthur Evans of Buckland in the parish of Docklow, and by 1796 only an ageing John and his other daughter Anna remained in residence at Burton Court, his mother and wife both having died.  After his death in 1804 his two daughters were joint heiresses, with only the unmarried Anna living at Burton Court and she made a will the contents of which she hoped would prevent her sister Margaret’s husband from ever getting his hands on Burton Court.  Of course, with him being entitled by right of marriage to half of Margaret’s possessions this was never going to work and after Anna died in 1811 aged only thirty nine, the next Lord and Lady of the Manor were William Evans and his wife Margaret.  They both died in 1822, and thus the occupation of Burton Court passed to the Evans family.  Memorial in St. Mary the Virgin, Eardisland

  Rev W.E. Evans

  In 1830 the Rev. W.E. Evans, the youngest son of J. Evans M.D., married Elizabeth Evans, one of his cousins, who had inherited Burton Court.  He had been educated at Cambridge and after taking Holy Orders became Curate of Llanymynech in Shropshire.  In 1841 he was appointed prebendary of Hereford.

   

  Rev. W.E. Evans was on the provisional Committee,  and was a shareholder of the  Welsh Midland Railway, which was to connect Birmingham with Swansea via Worcester, Leominster, Ludlow, Hereford, The Hay, Brecon, Llandovery, Llandilo.  Capital to be raised was three and a half million pounds in 70 thousand shares.  He became Canon of Hereford Cathedral and wrote several books which received acclaim, including one called “The Songs of the Birds” (or analogies of animal and spiritual life), which was re published after his death.

   

  Burton Court Household  – 1841 Census

  William E. Evans	b.1802	b. Shrewsbury
  Elizabeth Evans	b.1801	b. Herefordshire
  Mary Ann Evans		b. Herefordshire
  William B. Evans	b. 1833	b. Herefordshire
  Robert H. Evans	b. 1835	b. Herefordshire
  Eliza Evans	b.1838	b. Herefordshire
  Edward A. Evans	b. 1840	b. Herefordshire
  Eliza Watkins	b.1768	b. Herefordshire
  Martha Adams	b.1801
  Eliza Russell	b.1806
  Susan Davies	b.1811
  Catherine Francis	b.1807

   

  Burton Court Household and Servants  – 1851 Census

  William E. Evans	b.1802	Vicar of Madley b. Shrewsbury
  Elizabeth Evans	b.1801	Wife b. Herefordshire
  Elizabeth Jane Evans	b.1839	Daughter b. Burton Court, Herefordshire
  Arthur Edward Evans	b.1841	Son b. Burton Court, Herefordshire
  Emma Phillips	b.1823	Governess b. London
  John Lomax	b.1831	Visitor b. Bury St. Edmonds
  Martha Thomas	b.1837	Cook and Housekeeper b. Eardisland, Herefordshire
  Jane Morris	b.1818	Maid b. Kingsland, Herefordshire
  Margaret Williams	b.1831	Housemaid b. Monkland, Herefordshire
  Clarinda Hodges	b.1832	Young Lady’s Maid b. Lydbrook, Gloucestershire
  Mary Butcher	b.1832	Kitchen Maid b. Leominster, Herefordshire
  Edward Gardner	b.1825	Footman b. Ross on Wye, Herefordshire
  Thomas Williams	b.1829	Coachman b. Radnorshire

  Burton Court Household and Servants –  1871 Census

  John Clowes	b.1823	Derbyshire landowner and Magistrate, b. Sutton on the Hill
  Peter Leigh Clowes	b.1854	Son b. Lancashire
  Caroline Clowes	b.1855	Daughter b. Lancashire
  George Gooch Clowes	b.1835	Visitor b. Egginton, Derbyshire
  Emily King	b. 1835	Governess b. Newbury, Berkshire
  Emma Soulinson	b.1835	Housekeeper b. Staffordshire
  Anna Howlett	b.1842	Lady’s Maid b. Norfolk
  Eliza Matthews	b.1844	Housemaid b. Monkland, Herefordshire
  Mary A. Bayliss	b.1852	Under Housemaid b. Linton, Herefordshire
  Jane Browfield	b.1851	Kitchen Maid b. Bristol
  Elizabeth Taylor	b.1855	Scullery Maid b. Woolhope, Herefordshire
  James Rodgers	b.1830	Under Houseman b. Radnorshire
  Charles Machin	b.1855	Footman b. Edith Weston, Rutland
  Thomas Glover	b.1842	Coachman, Staffordshire

  It is believed that in late 1873, John Clowes retired to his other property,  Wardour Lodge, Sunningdale, Berkshire, leaving Burton Court available for rent until such time as his son married and took over the manor.

   

  Burton Court Household and Servants – 1881 Census

  George Arbuthnot	b 1836	Lt. col. R.A retired. B. Madras, East Indies
  Frances M.Arbuthnot	b.1872	Daughter b. London
  John B. Arbuthnot	b.1876	Son b. London
  Dorothy G. Arbuthnot	b.1878	Daughter b. London
  Mary C. Arbuthnot	b.1880	Daughter b. London
  John R. Symonds	b.1851	Visitor, Solicitor b. Hereford
  Constance F. Playford	b.1857	Governess, b. Worth
  Eliza A. Benmore	b. 1844	Housekeeper b. Bath
  Priscilla R. Hunt	b.854	Nurse b. Downend
  Ruth Brewster	b.1862	Under Nurse b. Suffolk
  Julia Clarke	b.1866	Nursery Maid b. Flintshire
  Fanny Andrews	b.1859	Housemaid b. Hampshire
  Emma Watkins	b.1856	Housemaid b. Woolhope, Herefordshire
  Sara Hulse	b.1854	Kitchenmaid b. Bodington, Herefordshire
  Clara Smith	b.1862	Scullery Maid b. Farnham
  Jane Ashburner	b.1852	Lady’s Maid b. Cumberland
  William Jones	b.1862	Footman, b. London
  Mary Hill	b.1821	General Servant b. Hereford

   

  The Clowes family at Burton Court

  In  September 1864,  Burton Court was bought by John Clowes, a kindly gentleman who with his wife did a great deal for the village of Eardisland;  they took a huge interest in the cricket matches and would provide teas which were served by local ladies from the village;  they also held shoots and tennis parties at the Court, to which people would travel from miles around.   Mrs. Clowes had an imposing black horse, on which she rode around the area,  which with a somewhat stern countenance gave her the impression of being somewhat intimidating – however she had a very soft spot for the village children, and gave vast parties for them, especially at Christmas.

  George Arbuthnot and Burton Court

  Thus it was that George Arbuthnot and his family took up residence for a few years, until they moved to Norton Court in Gloucestershire.  It is entirely possible, given that both John Clowes and George Arbuthnot were important military men, and that they both had strong connections with Sunningdale, that they were good friends and some sort of agreement may have been made so that in fact is was more that Burton Court was loaned to the Arbuthnots and not rented.

  Whatever the arrangement, the Arbuthnots moved from Chelsea to Herefordshire after Lt. Col. R.A  George Arbuthnot retired from the army life.  He was born in Madras on 9th June 1836 and was educated at Eton.

  He entered the army in 1855 and progressed from Captain, through Major to Lt. Colonel and served in India and Abyssinia and was mentioned in despatches three times.  Once retired, he kept himself busy as M.P. for Hereford 1871 – 1874 and 1878 – 1889. Then on his move to Norton Court in Gloucestershire he became J.P for Gloucester, and J.P. and D.L for Hereford.  He died 26th December 1912 at Hillingdon Middlesex, and was buried at Sunningdale.

  In 1895 by Deed of Settlement in anticipation of marriage to Edith Emily Warren, John Clowes settled Burton Court and the Lordship of the Manor on his son Peter Legh Clowes .  Ediths father was George Warren (of the Warren Steamship Line) of Woolton, Liverpool.  The marriage took place in Leighton Buzzard, on 18th September.

  Colonel Peter Legh Clowes was a serving Army Officer and commanded his Regiment in the South Africa Campaign 1897-1901;  upon his return he went back to Burton Court and settled to civilian life.  He had one son, Warren Peter Clowes, born in Kensington, who was commissioned into the 8th Kings Royal Irish Hussars and who was killed in action in France on 30th March 1918, and when Peter himself died on 23rd February 1925 his wife Edith inherited the estate.  She was some twelve years younger than her husband, and continued to run Burton Court and the Estate as well as she could until her eventual death in late 1949.

   

  Colonel Peter Clowes left over £40,000 in his will, and Edith left over £126,000.  The estate was sold off in lots in 1926.

   

  Read More >

Eardisland News from the Past

• Eardisland News from the Past

  Harvest Festival and tragedy

  1843 – Prostitute Convicted of Stealing

  (This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

  George Wethers and Ann Wethers were charged with having picked the pocket of John Griffiths of Eardisland and stolen a purse containing two sovereigns.

  John Griffiths said that he was on his way home from Kington one evening when Ann Wethers came up to him on the road, catching him by the collar and asking in somewhat obscene manner for him to walk with her.  John said that he tried to send her away, but that George Wethers then came up to him and starting swearing.

  John continued walking, but then suddenly discovered that the purse which had been in his pocket had gone.

  The next day both George and Ann Wethers were stopped in Pembridge by P.C. Jefferson but there was no sign of the purse on either of them.

  The best the court could do was to commit Ann to one month in the house of correction with hard labour for being a common prostitute, and George was discharged.

  1847 – Suicide of old man at Eardisland

  (This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

  An inquest was held at the Swan Inn, Eardisland on the body of 93 year old John Morgan who lived on a farm in the parish, and who had been found drowned in a pool in his fold.

  John’s son, aged 40, gave evidence and said that his father had recently become rather irritable, and this was borne out by domestic, Eliza Lewis who also said that the marriage of John and his wife was very comfortable, but that John had become depressed and bad tempered.

  John’s wife had been pushing him to make his will, but he said that he couldn’t because of the bad state of his head.

  The jury returned a verdict that the deceased destroyed himself whilst in a state of temporary insanity

  1851 – Suicide of young man at Eardisland

  (This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

  An inquest was held at Eardisland on the body of 31 year old John Bowen, a tailor who was found drowned in water called Lady Pool in the parish.

  John’s wife gave evidence, saying that he had been very down for some months but she had no idea why, and just prior to his death his manner became much worse.

  Later evidence showed that John was heavily in debt to Mr. E. Gould, a draper of Leominster, but no proceedings had been taken by that gentleman although he had repeatedly asked for the money.

  On the morning of the suicide, Mr. Gould had gone to see John Bowen at his house, asking to see his books.  Once Mr. Gould left, the poor embarrassed man went up to his children in bed and kissed them saying “I will sacrifice my life before I’ll give up my books”.

  When Mr. Gould returned he found that John had gone out of the back door, and his wife thought that he may have to to see a young man to instruct him in tailoring, as he frequently did.

  That evening, John was found dead.

  The jury returned a verdict of temporary insanity.

  1855 – Accident at the Mills of Messrs. Connop Brothers

  Mr. Thomas Caldicott a miller who was quiet and well respected by both family and friends, was helping Mr. Connop in the engineering department of the mills at Eardisland.

  Somehow, during the work the seed mill started up, and Mr. Connop managed to jump clear;  unfortunately Thomas Cadicott became caught in the machinery and apart from a broken thigh he was very badly cut and bruised.

  The bleeding was so profuse that he died before surgeons could get to his aid.

   

  1862 – Child burns to death at Eardisland

  (This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

  Thomas Evans was left as usual in the care of his seven year old sister Jane, along with another child, whilst their mother Ann Evans went to work.

  She was sent for during the morning, and on rushing home found Thomas very badly burnt.  It transpired that Jane developed a headache and went up to bed, and before long the other child went to her saying that Tommy was on fire.

  Jane immediately went down and put out the flames before pulling off Tommy’s clothes.  Although the mother immediately sent for a doctor who arrived and applied the usual remedies, Tommy died later that day.

  1867 – Harvest Home at Eardisland

  As reported in the Hereford Journal:

  “The proceedings commenced with a morning service in the parish church, which had been suitably decorated for the occasion with specimens of the products of both field, garden and orchard.

  On the communion table was placed an offering of luscious fruit, whilst the super-altar was adorned with neatly arranged bouquets, the entire space on either side and around being filled up with a kind of trellis work of evergreens and flowers.

  The pulpit, organ screen, lectern and reading desk were also prettily decorated in a similar manner and collections of fruit and flowers were placed on the several window cills on the south side of the church. Besides this there were standards composed of wheat, barley and oats placed at the corner of the pews at either end which had a nice effect. The font was also enwreathed in evergreens and we must not omit to mention that the hop formed a conspicuous ornament among the various other decorations employed.

  The whole was arranged in an exceedingly tasteful manner as, indeed, it could not fail to be seeing that the work was carried out by the ladies of the neighbourhood.”

  1867 – Funeral of the Rev. F. Rudge of Eardisland

  The Rev. F. Rudge had been vicar of Eardisland for more than fifty years and was aged 78 on his death.

  He retired to Tenbury due to ill health, and soon died.  His funeral took place in Tenbury, with bell ringers from Eardisland paying their last tribute by ringing out his age.

  1889 – Sudden Death of Child at Eardisland

  11 Year old Matilda Lewis went home from school one day complaining of a painful foot.

  Her mother could see nothing wrong and there was no injury;  two days later Matilda was dead.

  After hearing evidence from Dr. Hall, the jury returned a verdict of “died from embolism of the pulmonary artery”.

  1894 – Serious Fire at Eardisland

  Mid afternoon one Tuesday, Mrs. Hope was feeding her hens at Court House Farm, Eardisland, when she spotted some straw ablaze on the floor over by a hay and clover rick.

  She rushed over and tried to pull the burning straw away from the ricks, but in a matter of minutes four of the ricks were well alight.

  Villagers having spotted the dense smoke came with buckets, and used a cordon from the water in the moat to try to quench the flames.  The fire brigade was sent for, but it was gone five in the evening before they arrived with their Captain, Mr. J. Biddle.

  Eventually, some 24 hours later, the fire was finally extinguished with some 12 tons of hay being saved but an awful lot having been burnt.

  James Williams, a small boy of just 6 years of age, owned up to setting fire to the straw in the rick yard, but said that the match was given to him by Fred Jones, a 13 year old boy – the latter was taken into custody by the police.

  Fortunately Mr. Hope  had insurance.

  1899 – Drowning in the River Lugg

  Two little girls who had just recovered from scarlet fever, drowned in the River Lugg at Eardisland on 14th February. They were the children of George Thomas, a waggoner living near the Reading Room at Eardisland, and were playing in the garden at the back of the cottage which adjoined the River Arrow.

  Their mother had only left them for a few moments, and when she found them missing she checked the wall which had been built to protect the cottage from flooding, and to her horror found that part of it was broken down and realised that her girls must have fallen through into the river.

  She called for help and many villagers came to look for the children, but it was not until a few hours later that the schoolmaster Mr. Rogers found the body of Elsie May aged 5 years and 9 months.

  It was some time before her sister, Minnie Thomas aged four was discovered by her father at the foot of the main weir. Her clothing had become caught in the piles of the weir which had prevented her body from surfacing and floating down the river.

  1900 – Recollections of Eardisland Grammar School by an Old Scholar

  It was about 1857 when I started at Eardisland School.  A very old schoolmaster, Mr Bullock (he used to keep the Post Office) was my first teacher, but was only there for about 3 years.

  Due to his age, some of the bigger boys began to get the better of him with some of them actually getting into a scuffle with the poor old man.

  Shortly after this Mr. Bullock was retired although he received part of his salary until his death.

  The school desks in Mr. Bullock’s time rose in tiers, with one row of desks on each rise – thus ensuring that the whole of the scholars in the writing lesson were clearly visible, who for any little misconduct on our part would spank us on the head, or anywhere, with a long ruler he used for the blackboard.

  At this time, the school was free to boys but girls paid something per week for their education.  The whole of the boys and girls able to write at all, paid 3d a month for pens and ink.  Mr. Bullock made the quill pens we used, with Pigmore Common supplying the goose quill which was gathered by some of the scholars living there.

  Mr. Powell, Rector of Welwyn, was headmaster for many years, which was odd as the curate in charge (the Rev. J.H.Bluck) seemed to have no power to act.

  The new schoolmaster, Mr. John Leigh for whom I had the greatest respect was a mere stripling, but he made great changes to the school.

  The desks were put to the side of the school and soon there were Penny Reading Concerts, and finally the library was started.  Mr. Leigh also started the first cricket club in Eardisland, and it was no trouble getting an eleven together for matches during the season.

  Visitors to the school were few and far between – it was quite a sight for the children to see a lady or gentleman enter the school and as soon as one entered, the order was given to “stand”.  The copy books would be shown to all visitors.

  Read More >

1843 – Prostitute Convicted of Stealing

(This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

George Wethers and Ann Wethers were charged with having picked the pocket of John Griffiths of Eardisland and stolen a purse containing two sovereigns.

John Griffiths said that he was on his way home from Kington one evening when Ann Wethers came up to him on the road, catching him by the collar and asking in somewhat obscene manner for him to walk with her.  John said that he tried to send her away, but that George Wethers then came up to him and starting swearing.

John continued walking, but then suddenly discovered that the purse which had been in his pocket had gone.

The next day both George and Ann Wethers were stopped in Pembridge by P.C. Jefferson but there was no sign of the purse on either of them.

The best the court could do was to commit Ann to one month in the house of correction with hard labour for being a common prostitute, and George was discharged.

1847 – Suicide of old man at Eardisland

(This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

An inquest was held at the Swan Inn, Eardisland on the body of 93 year old John Morgan who lived on a farm in the parish, and who had been found drowned in a pool in his fold.

John’s son, aged 40, gave evidence and said that his father had recently become rather irritable, and this was borne out by domestic, Eliza Lewis who also said that the marriage of John and his wife was very comfortable, but that John had become depressed and bad tempered.

John’s wife had been pushing him to make his will, but he said that he couldn’t because of the bad state of his head.

The jury returned a verdict that the deceased destroyed himself whilst in a state of temporary insanity

1851 – Suicide of young man at Eardisland

(This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

An inquest was held at Eardisland on the body of 31 year old John Bowen, a tailor who was found drowned in water called Lady Pool in the parish.

John’s wife gave evidence, saying that he had been very down for some months but she had no idea why, and just prior to his death his manner became much worse.

Later evidence showed that John was heavily in debt to Mr. E. Gould, a draper of Leominster, but no proceedings had been taken by that gentleman although he had repeatedly asked for the money.

On the morning of the suicide, Mr. Gould had gone to see John Bowen at his house, asking to see his books.  Once Mr. Gould left, the poor embarrassed man went up to his children in bed and kissed them saying “I will sacrifice my life before I’ll give up my books”.

When Mr. Gould returned he found that John had gone out of the back door, and his wife thought that he may have to to see a young man to instruct him in tailoring, as he frequently did.

That evening, John was found dead.

The jury returned a verdict of temporary insanity.

1855 – Accident at the Mills of Messrs. Connop Brothers

Mr. Thomas Caldicott a miller who was quiet and well respected by both family and friends, was helping Mr. Connop in the engineering department of the mills at Eardisland.

Somehow, during the work the seed mill started up, and Mr. Connop managed to jump clear;  unfortunately Thomas Cadicott became caught in the machinery and apart from a broken thigh he was very badly cut and bruised.

The bleeding was so profuse that he died before surgeons could get to his aid.

1862 – Child burns to death at Eardisland

(This article submitted by Mike Walsh who is researching his family history in Herefordshire)

Thomas Evans was left as usual in the care of his seven year old sister Jane, along with another child, whilst their mother Ann Evans went to work.

She was sent for during the morning, and on rushing home found Thomas very badly burnt.  It transpired that Jane developed a headache and went up to bed, and before long the other child went to her saying that Tommy was on fire.

Jane immediately went down and put out the flames before pulling off Tommy’s clothes.  Although the mother immediately sent for a doctor who arrived and applied the usual remedies, Tommy died later that day.

1867 – Harvest Home at Eardisland

As reported in the Hereford Journal:

“The proceedings commenced with a morning service in the parish church, which had been suitably decorated for the occasion with specimens of the products of both field, garden and orchard.

On the communion table was placed an offering of luscious fruit, whilst the super-altar was adorned with neatly arranged bouquets, the entire space on either side and around being filled up with a kind of trellis work of evergreens and flowers.

The pulpit, organ screen, lectern and reading desk were also prettily decorated in a similar manner and collections of fruit and flowers were placed on the several window cills on the south side of the church. Besides this there were standards composed of wheat, barley and oats placed at the corner of the pews at either end which had a nice effect. The font was also enwreathed in evergreens and we must not omit to mention that the hop formed a conspicuous ornament among the various other decorations employed.

The whole was arranged in an exceedingly tasteful manner as, indeed, it could not fail to be seeing that the work was carried out by the ladies of the neighbourhood.”

1867 – Funeral of the Rev. F. Rudge of Eardisland

The Rev. F. Rudge had been vicar of Eardisland for more than fifty years and was aged 78 on his death.

He retired to Tenbury due to ill health, and soon died.  His funeral took place in Tenbury, with bell ringers from Eardisland paying their last tribute by ringing out his age.

1889 – Sudden Death of Child at Eardisland

11 Year old Matilda Lewis went home from school one day complaining of a painful foot.

Her mother could see nothing wrong and there was no injury;  two days later Matilda was dead.

After hearing evidence from Dr. Hall, the jury returned a verdict of “died from embolism of the pulmonary artery”.

1894 – Serious Fire at Eardisland

Mid afternoon one Tuesday, Mrs. Hope was feeding her hens at Court House Farm, Eardisland, when she spotted some straw ablaze on the floor over by a hay and clover rick.

She rushed over and tried to pull the burning straw away from the ricks, but in a matter of minutes four of the ricks were well alight.

Villagers having spotted the dense smoke came with buckets, and used a cordon from the water in the moat to try to quench the flames.  The fire brigade was sent for, but it was gone five in the evening before they arrived with their Captain, Mr. J. Biddle.

Eventually, some 24 hours later, the fire was finally extinguished with some 12 tons of hay being saved but an awful lot having been burnt.

James Williams, a small boy of just 6 years of age, owned up to setting fire to the straw in the rick yard, but said that the match was given to him by Fred Jones, a 13 year old boy – the latter was taken into custody by the police.

Fortunately Mr. Hope  had insurance.

1899 – Drowning in the River Lugg

Two little girls who had just recovered from scarlet fever, drowned in the River Lugg at Eardisland on 14th February. They were the children of George Thomas, a waggoner living near the Reading Room at Eardisland, and were playing in the garden at the back of the cottage which adjoined the River Arrow.

Their mother had only left them for a few moments, and when she found them missing she checked the wall which had been built to protect the cottage from flooding, and to her horror found that part of it was broken down and realised that her girls must have fallen through into the river.

She called for help and many villagers came to look for the children, but it was not until a few hours later that the schoolmaster Mr. Rogers found the body of Elsie May aged 5 years and 9 months.

It was some time before her sister, Minnie Thomas aged four was discovered by her father at the foot of the main weir. Her clothing had become caught in the piles of the weir which had prevented her body from surfacing and floating down the river.

1900 – Recollections of Eardisland Grammar School by an Old Scholar

It was about 1857 when I started at Eardisland School.  A very old schoolmaster, Mr Bullock (he used to keep the Post Office) was my first teacher, but was only there for about 3 years.

Due to his age, some of the bigger boys began to get the better of him with some of them actually getting into a scuffle with the poor old man.

Shortly after this Mr. Bullock was retired although he received part of his salary until his death.

The school desks in Mr. Bullock’s time rose in tiers, with one row of desks on each rise – thus ensuring that the whole of the scholars in the writing lesson were clearly visible, who for any little misconduct on our part would spank us on the head, or anywhere, with a long ruler he used for the blackboard.

At this time, the school was free to boys but girls paid something per week for their education.  The whole of the boys and girls able to write at all, paid 3d a month for pens and ink.  Mr. Bullock made the quill pens we used, with Pigmore Common supplying the goose quill which was gathered by some of the scholars living there.

Mr. Powell, Rector of Welwyn, was headmaster for many years, which was odd as the curate in charge (the Rev. J.H.Bluck) seemed to have no power to act.

The new schoolmaster, Mr. John Leigh for whom I had the greatest respect was a mere stripling, but he made great changes to the school.

The desks were put to the side of the school and soon there were Penny Reading Concerts, and finally the library was started.  Mr. Leigh also started the first cricket club in Eardisland, and it was no trouble getting an eleven together for matches during the season.

Visitors to the school were few and far between – it was quite a sight for the children to see a lady or gentleman enter the school and as soon as one entered, the order was given to “stand”.  The copy books would be shown to all visitors.

1853 – Coroner looks into Suspected Poisoning at Eardisley

There was much excitement in Eardisley when rumours abounded that a 19 year old girl, Caroline Herretts had poisoned her father and a baby.

Her father, Thomas Herretts was an earthenware dealer, died on 16th September 1852 and at the time his death was attributed to heavy drinking;  however, a month later his daughter bore an illegitimate child which died shortly afterwards in spite of being declared strong and healthy by the midwife.

The family were arguing about dividing up the spoils of the household goods, and during the sorting out a box was found which contained steel filings and magnesia, enough to kill anyone who took it – suspicions began to surface about how their father had actually died. The parish authorities took the matter in hand, and the Coroner, Mr. N. Lanwarne, was asked to disinter the bodies of the baby and Thomas Herretts.

This was immediately done and an inquest was formally held.

The Inquest

One of the sons, 17 year old Thomas Herretts Jnr. declared that he was one of eight children, and that his father was 48 when he died after years of hard drinking – mostly beer and cider. He said that his sister Caroline made breakfast on the morning in question, bread and butter and tea, and she had already poured the tea by the time they arrived at the table.  Their father drank his tea from an extra large cup in one go then looked at it and asked what was in it.  Caroline took the cup from him saying that it was just the grounds from the kettle, whilst washing it out.

The father Thomas, plus two sons and Caroline set off for Hay when suddenly Thomas became violently ill – although it was quite usual for him to be very sick after a heavy night’s drinking.  They carried on to Hay but he became worse so they sent him home with one son in the cart.  Although attended by Mr. Davies the surgeon, he died early the next morning.

The Post Mortem

Peter Broome Giles, a surgeon of Byford was ordered by the Coroner to conduct a post mortem:

“The body of Thomas Herrett was in an advanced state of decomposition having been in the grave for four months;  externally we found nothing to observe upon;  internally we found the heart and lungs as may have been expected – the liver was evidently that of a man who had been an habitual drinker;  the stomach was in a highly inflamed state, and the intestines showed great congestion through the whole course.  …..we mascerated a portion of the stomach to test for mineral poison, testing with ammonical sulphurate of copper which produced a green appearance, showing a slight presence of arsenic;  this is not an infallible test as the human body contains arsenic, and there are other tests that would give more proof.  The appearance of the stomach would indicate irritation from either poison or drinking.  I should not like positively to state that the deceased had taken poison; the general appearance could have been the result of hard drinking or of poison.”

The Verdict

After more witness accounts from the family, the Coroner said that there was much conflicting evidence and the jury eventually returned a verdict of death by natural causes.  The same verdict was returned for the baby.

It is quite possible that Caroline got away with murder, and further correspondence in the newspapers expressed concern that the verdict was reached without proper tests being carried out.  Rumblings carried on for some considerable time.

1857 – New School Opens at Eardisley

The village of Eardisley was considered the most important in the west of the county, with about 800 inhabitants.

The new school was opened in the presence of many locals, and was a “handsome structure of brick and timber, covered with blue Staffordshire tiles, executed from a design by, and carried out under, the direction of John Clayton, in a style of architecture well suited to the materials.”

1860 – Fatal Accident of Eardisley Man

64 year old James Brookes who was a waggoner employed by Walter Croose of Eardisley, had taken a wagon load of grain, drawn by four horses to Kington, and he was to return with a load of guano.

At some point he had some cider and then some beer, but those who saw him setting for home didn’t think him worse for wear.

James took pride in his ability to guide his team and wagon downhill without the normal practice of locking one of the wheels, and such was the case on this occasion.   James’ son was in charge of the fore horse, and James himself was close to the shaft horse;   just beyond Bollingham the road ran downhill for a good mile, and it seems that the wagon began to run away –  James tried to apply the slipper on the wheel but was hit by a shaft and knocked down.

He had no time to get out of the way, and death must have been instant as the wheels of the wagon went over his head.

1863 – Tragic accident in Eardisley

A wagon laden with timber belonging to Messrs. Price of Kington was going through Eardisley on its way to the saw mills belonging to the contractors of the Hereford, Hay and Brecon Railway, when a 9 year old girl called Alma Boyles lost her hat.

She ran to catch it, and went straight under the wheels of the wagon, the wheels of which went over her body and legs.

She was so badly injured that she died that same evening.

1863 – Kington and Eardisley Railway

The first sod was ceremoniously cut on 13th March, for the start of the construction of the Kington and Eardisley Railway.

The ceremony was performed by Lady Langdale.

1867 – Man killed in Fight

James Proctor, aged 28, son of Henry and Mary Proctor, had just left home to seek work as a railway navvy.

The Fight

On 16th September, he started a scuffle with Joseph Wall outside the New Inn, Eardisley.  Other men tried to break up the fight, but to no avail, and initially it seemed that James Proctor was the stronger of the too and more aggressive.  The fight progressed to an orchard, and from there to the kitchen of the New Inn, where Joseph Wall repeatedly was knocked to the floor, but was picked up by various onlookers.  It seems that the gathering crowd were thoroughly enjoying the spectacle.

Eventually the hitting stopped and they were more or less wrestling when Joseph fell backwards and seemed to be stunned, whereupon he was carried into a stable – the landlady of the New Inn, Mrs. Whitehouse, refused to let them take him into the house as she said he was drunk.

Although men tried to make Joseph comfortable in the stable, they were soon ordered away by Mrs. Whitehouse, and it was at least two hours before she checked on him and called a doctor, Arthur Robert Lomax.

Dr. Lomax found him to be in a state of apoplexy caused by blows to the head, and he never regained consciousness before his death the following evening.

The Post Mortem

The post mortem carried out by Arthur Lomax revealed the following:

“on removing the scalp, I discovered slight congestion on the back of the head, but this might have been the result of gravitation from the position in which the body lay.  I opened the skull and discovered about six ounces of clotted blood on the left side of the brain – the right side being healthy.  I removed the brain but failed to detect any fracture, either of the inner or outer table of the skull;  from this I deduce that the extravasation of blood was the immediate cause of death, but I cannot positively say that it was caused by either a blow or fall.  I am also of the opinion that a very slight blow upon the head of a person intoxicated and excited would be more likely to be followed by fatal results than a severe one on a person sober and unexcited.  I am of the opinion that the death of the deceased was not caused by any blow given to him, but was probably caused through the excited state of the deceased from drink, or else from the fall”

The Verdict

The Coroner and jury stated that the conduct of those encouraging the fight was much to be blamed, and returned a verdict that cleared James Proctor of murder.

1873 – Royal Mail cart driver killed at Eardisley

Details of this incident are scant, but the Royal Mail cart was in a collision with a travelling steam cider mill, and the driver was killed.

1899 – Consecretion of more Ground for Burials at Eardisley

For some time it had been realised that the available burial ground in the churchyard was filling up, and Mrs. Perry Herrick and Canon Palmer came to the rescue.

Mrs. Herrick donated part of her orchard which was next to the churchyard, and Canon Palmer gave part of his vegetable garden – the total amount of ground was considerable.  In addition, Mrs. Herrick funded the materials for building a wall.

The new land was duly consecrated by the Bishop of Hereford.

1899 – An Ex Soldier’s Desperate Suicide at Eardisley

John Morris, a 36 year old Army Reserveman and carpenter by trade had been in the army – artillery – for 8 years and had been in India for 3 years.

He had been out of the army for 3 years and had been employed as a carpenter with Mr. Morgan of Kington, but the poor chap had never been quite right in his mind since coming home.  He had frequent bouts of not talking and acting strangely, and on the day that he committed suicide he was behaving very oddly indeed.

On the farm where he was engaged in repairing a barn, the foreman Edwin Davies had borrowed a gun from John Turner in order to scare birds and shoot vermin.  The gun had been left loaded in the manger, and during the morning John Morris suddenly picked it up and shot himself.

The Post Mortem

Post Mortem Report by Dr. Darling:

“There was a large pool of blood and the deceased had a gunshot wound at the back of the right ear and angle of the jaw.  The whole of the bone and jaw was shot away.  All large arteries in the neck were torn away. (There is more but it is rather grisly and as it is not necessary for the story I have decided not to put people off their tea)”

Death was no doubt instantaneous, and as the barrels of the gun were short, it was easy enough for John to aim it at himself.

The jury returned a verdict of suicide during temporary insanity, but the Deputy Coroner admonished Edwin Davis for the careless way he had left the gun lying around.

1863 – Christmas Day in Eastnor Church

The church was decorated beautifully with holly, ivy, laurel and other evergreens, along with more than 40 candles which were set about the church in metal sconces.

A wonderful decorated scroll was inscribed with black and red letters on a white background “Unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given”

The sermon was well received.

1877 – Flower Show at Eastnor is a Washout

Ledbury Horticultural Society held their annual show, after a break of a couple of years, in the grounds of Eastnor Castle, and the weather was not looking good on the eve of the show.  This was nothing however to what happened on the day.

The day began with heavy rain clouds covering the sky, and people were only encouraged to continue with their preparations by the occasional glimpse of sun.

Early in the afternoon a heavy shower was a prelude of things to come – in the shape of terrific thunderstorms with torrential rain, which managed to get through the tents.

Nothing daunted, visitors flooded to the show, and were rewarded by some late sun.

Classes in the revamped show included those for nurserymen and gentlemen’s gardeners but there were few takers which was disappointing;  furthermore, their exhibits were rather below standard.

It was the cottagers who rather swept the board with their produce.

1891 – Fire at Eastnor Castle

A fire broke out at Eastnor Castle just after Christmas;  it started in the library and two valuable pieces of tapestry representing summer and winter were badly damaged before the flames could be put out.

The tapestry formed part of a set of four pieces which came from Fontainebleu, and were worked during the time of Louis XV.

A large company of people were being entertained when the fire was discovered.

1895 – Coming of Age of Lady Henry Somerset’s Son

Eastnor rejoiced in the coming of age of Mr. H.C. Somers Somerset, only son of Lady Henry Somerset, the owner of Eastnor Castle.

Lady Somerset presided at a dinner for the tenantry in the great hall, and after the meal Mr. W. Coleman, Estate Agent, presented Mr. Somers Somerset with a set of six silver gilt bowls, and on behalf of the cottagers and employees on the Eastnor estate, with a silver inkstand and illuminated address signed by 125 subscribers.

Mr. Somerset was hugely appreciative of the gifts and assured the company of his intention to carry on the traditions of his mother’s family.

Lady Somerset also made a speech and said that she had spent around £30,000 on the Herefordshire and Worcestershire estates, and £60,000 on repairs.  Because of this, she had had to tighten her belt somewhat in order to remain at Eastnor Castle.

Some three years later, the Hon H.C. Somers Somerset was thrown from his horse near the Castle, and sustained serious head injuries.

See also Eastnor Castle

1898 – New Fountain on Eastnor Village Green

Lady Henry Somerset presented a fountain to Eastnor village, and she and Arthur Somers Cocks, heir to the Eastnor Estate, along with Verena Somers Cocks, walked to the site of the fountain on the green for the official opening.

The Rev. H.S. Sanders gave the address, and said that the villagers were now able to drink the water from the Malvern Hills – reputed to be the best in the UK.

The fountain standing in the centre of the green was on four huge oak pillars, with three entrances and an ornate covering.  On the wall over the well were two pottery panels,modelled by Lady Henry Somerset, depicting Christ and the woman of Samaria.

Alongside the well, there was provided a drinking trough for cattle and horses, and two smaller ones for dogs.

1826 – Fire at The Tuck Mill, Eaton Bishop

On 12th March a destructive fire broke out at the Tuck Mill, entirely destroying it along with all the stock and property of the tenant, Mr. James Hiles.

Poor James went from living a comfortable life to finding himself destitute, and he had no choice but to beg for assistance from the “charitable and humane” to procure the means of subsistence for his family.

Donations came in promptly, with the Rt. Hon Lady Southampton giving £20, and the Rev. Mr. Tandy donating £10 – both huge sums at the time.

Touchingly, one of the donors wished just to be known as “A Friend”.

1849 – Fire on Eaton Bishop Farm

Very often when fire broke out on a property in remote villages, it was down to the efforts of neighbours to try to contain the fire until the fire brigade arrived.

This notice in the Hereford Times is an example:

“James Coleman is anxious thus publicly to express his heartfelt gratitude to his friends and neighbours generally, who so kindly and promptly rendered their services during the calamitous fire at his farm”.

1854 – Farewell Tea Party at Eaton Bishop

More than a hundred children from Eaton Bishop school, as well as many of their friends and parents, were given a farewell tea party by Mrs. Musgrave.

The grounds of the school, and the school house itself  were well decorated for the occasion.

The villagers had clubbed together and bought a beautifully bound bible for Mrs Musgrave to present to the Rev. Canon in gratitude for his support of the school and for his ministry.  The children gave Miss Musgrave a book.

The Rev. Herbert Symonds who helped with the festival, later talked to the children in a most affectionate manner, and so ended a lovely evening which was only clouded by the fact that they were losing the Rector and his family who were moving to Yorkshire.

1899 – Was this Lad Mad?

William Albert Connor, aged 17, from Eaton Bishop, was charged with having tried to kill himself on 22nd February.

William was described as being of ruddy complexion with a mass of oily hair, and he treated his court appearance with huge indifference until he saw the distress of his aged father and younger sister, when he seemed to begin to realise what trouble he was in.

Mr. John Kingdom Frost, a surgeon from Kingstone testified that on 22nd February he was called to the house of William’s father at Eaton Bishop, and found William lying on the floor suffering from a cut to the throat, which was consistent with a knife lying close by.  William said that he had pain, but had no idea that it was from the wound.

This was the third time that he had tried to cut his throat, but he never seemed to be aware that he had done it.

Mr. Frost said that it was hard to say whether the lad was sane or not, but that he had been “morose”.  The clerk asked if that might be a symptom of insanity, and the reply was “undoubtedly”.

William’s father, who was very old, was asked if he would take William back into his home, and in floods of tears, he said that of course he would, but the Chairman of the Court was worried about the strain it would be for him and wanted to commit William for trial at the Quarter Sessions.  (How calous was that?)

William’s father, and his sister burst out crying again, and the Chairman asked if he knew what the Quarter Sessions meant, to which he replied “no”.

Everything was explained to him, and he begged to be allowed to take William home, – the Chairman agreed with reluctance.

I do wonder what happened to poor William and to his desperate father.

1852 – Return of the Rev. Arthur Childe

As reported in the Hereford Journal 3oth June:

“On Friday last, Edvin Ralph and Collington and their neighbourhood presented such a scene of joy and festivity as has not been witnessed within the memory of the oldest inhabitants, and such as will not easily be forgotten by the younger branches, in honour of the return home of the Rev. Arthur Childe and his amiable bride to their newly-erected residence, the Rectory at Edvin Ralph.

The morning was highly auspicious for the occasion, the sun shining forth in regal splendour, gladdening the hearts and making buoyant the spirits of those who assembled to pay their respects to the happy pair”

1857 – Evasion of Toll

William Palmer, collector of tolls for the Bromyard district, charged Joseph Moore, a Miller of Edvin Ralph, with deliberately evading the toll payment.

It was Joseph’s servant who was driving the cart and two horses, and he turned off the road onto adjoining land with the intent of avoiding paying 1s toll at the Tenbury turnpike road gate.  He was spotted and asked his name, which he refused to give, so Joseph Moore was summoned and although he expressed his regret, he was ordered to pay costs and toll.

1858 – Horrible Treatment of Step Daughter

The wife of Edward Bromage, Sarah, was charged with assaulting her step daughter Elizabeth who was 6 years old.

A neighbour saw Sarah unmercifully beat Elizabeth with a birch rod, and it was said that her general conduct towards her step daughter was appalling.

The Rev. Arthur Childe, Rector of Edvin Ralph, called at the house to ask about the child, and he found her with her arms tied together behind her and fastened to a bed upstairs.  He brought the case forward to prevent more such gross barbarity.

Mr. Bray for the defendant said that the child was merely being corrected for her filthy habits, however the Bench severely reprimanded Sarah for her brutal conduct and sent her to prison for two weeks.

Elizabeth, who had been in the Workhouse, was present in court and “presented a very ghastly appearance.”

1877 – Fined for Straying Pig

In the nineteenth century it seems that a pretty dim view was taken of animals being allowed to stray onto the road.

Just one example was Mary Ann Benbow of the Park, Edvin Ralph who was charged with allowing a pig to stray onto the highway.

Sir. R. Harington remarked that it would be cheaper for Mary to mend her fences and provide more food for her animals than to keep paying fines and costs.

She was fined 5s and 8s costs.

1845 – Death of John Caesar Hawkins

The poor of the parish of Elton were mourning the sad loss of John Caesar Hawkins who died 8th Janury.

He was a gentle and generous man, who whilst he lived at Elton devoted his time to acts of charity and benevolence for the poor of the area.

1835 – Turkeys Stolen

In early January, Walter Meek was convicted of stealing three turkeys from Francis Hollings of Evesbatch, and sentenced to twelve months imprisonment and hard labour.

Given the time of year, it is not hard to imagine why Walter stole the turkeys.

1847 – Theft of two cabbages

Esther Bannister of Evesbatch was pregnant, and on 25th September she was seen cutting two cabbages from the field of James Hodges, a farmer, which he valued at 6d each.

Esther tearfully admitted to the “crime”, but said that she had asked an employee of James Hodges if it would be okay.  It was not clear what his reply was, but she cut the cabbages anyway and ate part of them raw there and then, which was put down to her state of pregnancy.

The Bench were not particularly sympathetic, and fined her 1s for the value of the cabbages, plus 6d penalty and 10s 6d expenses – all of which was paid.

1857 – Fined for not having Name and Address on Cart

Mrs. Mary Purton, the gatekeeper at Stoke Lacy, summoned James Parker of Evesbatch for allowing his car to be used on the turnpike road without his name and address being painted thereon in full according to the law.

James was ordered to pay a fine and costs, and he duly settled the bill.

1863 – Coal Cart Accident

James Perigo aged 18 whilst working for Mr. Phillips a farmer of Evesbatch, was trying to put in the slide of the wheel of a car laden with coal that he was driving.

He slipped and fell, and the car wheel went over his right hand severely damaging it.  He was taken to Worcester Infirmary after the surgeon, Mr. Shelton, attended to the wound, and eventually it was deemed necessary to amputate the hand.

James recovered well.

1838 – Wholesale Burglary at Ewyas Harold

On the night of 13th July, seven dwellings were broken into – Mr. Lewis, Haulier, was plundered of a hat;  shawl; new shoes and other articles as well as money.  His door was not locked but he had left the key in the door – unfortunately, the thieves locked him in on their way out!

Mrs. Jones had windows removed from her house, but iron bars prevented the thieves from entering and they were only able to take a brass standard for weighing sovereigns etc. which was within reach.

Panes of glass were also removed at the Vicarage occupied by Miss Williams, and a box containing wafers and some trifling articles were taken.

Mr. Price, Wheelwright;  Mr. Morgan, Tailor, and other people were also burgled.

On a tip off, John Bason was apprehended in Hereford and he was found to have about his person the following:

one live black rabbit;  a pair of new leather gloves;  a ruler;  a pair of silver plated spurs;  a quantity of vegetables;  an old and a new garden line;  a box containing a small wafer;  a flint and steel;  a tinder box, and a file.

Good grief!

1856 – Terrible effects of Indulgence in Intemperate Habits

Charles Watts, was a known drunk who was “subject to mental derangement”.  He neglected both his home and business in the pursuit of his great love of alcohol and his life went from bad to worse, with him alternating between inebriation and depression.

One night he arrived home in his usual state of extreme drunkenness, and went to bed.  His wife of 34 years  heard him get up in the early hours, and went to see what he was up to;  she found him carrying a jug in which there was a preparation of arsenic that he had readied for dressing his sheep………before she could stop him, he drank the contents down.

He very quickly started to be sick, and his wife rushed to the chemist, Mr. Jones, for an antidote;  emetics were administered  and Charles thought that he might recover, but after a few days his body gave up the struggle and he died.

At the inquest, a verdict of “suicide under temporary insanity” was recorded.

1858 – Fatal Accident at Quarry

Joseph Bricker, a quarryman aged 36 from Ewyas Harold, with a wife and four children, was killed by a fall of earth and stone.

He and his fellow workman, named George Gwatkin, were raising stone for repairs to Dulas Court, when about a ton of soil and rock fell on them.  George said that when the landslide occurred he himself was knocked down, but then saw that Joseph had been almost completely buried.  He managed to get him out, but Joseph died some half an hour later before the surgeon could arrive.

1876 – Shotgun Accident

Now – I KNOW that this isn’t funny, not in the slightest, but the way it was written for some reason had me in stitches.

“A gentleman named Kedward, living at The Cedars, Ewyas Harold, went into his garden and grounds to shoot wild pigeons.

Getting into a ditch to lie concealed awaiting the return of the birds to his peas, he placed the gun behind him, when both barrels went off simultaeneously, blowing away the whole of the back part of his head, and carrying a portion of the brains into an appletree ten yards distant.

He was found by his gardener, who had been attracted to the spot”

1860 – Cruelty to Horses Punished

It is apparent from reading many reports that cruelty to animals was not tolerated, and when perpetrators were caught they were fined heavily.

William James Morgan, a Haulier, was guilty of gross cruelty in the form of neglect and starvation – he was looked on with disgust, and was fined £1 16s 6d with expenses, together with £3.

1861 – Death from Excessive Drinking

James Preece a labourer of around 60 and unmarried, got himself thoroughly drunk one Saturday night at Ewyas Harold.

The next morning he was discovered quite dead in a ditch on the Abbeydore Road.

The verdict at the inquest was “found dead in a ditch from excessive drinking”

1877 – “Dastardly Outrage on a Child”

I would have stronger words for this, reported in the Gloucester Citizen:

“Mr. Justice Lindley had before him at Hereford Assizes yesterday a very bad case of criminal assault.

The prison, a labourer named Joseph Williams aged 37, was indicted for committing a rape on Mary Ann Titley, a girl 10 years old, at Ewyas Harold on 8th January”

It seems that Mary had been sent by her mother, a small holder, to drive a flock of sheep from the village common into an orchard.  The prisoner who was not local stopped her and asked the time.  When she replied, horrid man threw her to the ground then threatened her with a knife to stop her screaming whilst he abused her.

Medical tests showed that the full offence had been committed, and although the prisoner tried to deny the charge the evidence was too great and he was sentenced to seven years’ penal servitude.

1888 – Golden Valley Extension Railway Bill

This Bill was to enable the Golden Valley Railway Company Ltd. to make new railways – one was a twelve miles stretch from Ewyas Harold to Monmouth.

1891 – Doctor Poisoned Himself with Chloral

Mr. W.H. Robert Stanley M.D., aged 37 was lodging with Mr.  George a Wheelwright.

When the doctor returned one night, he appeared to have been drinking which was rather unusual for him, and he went straight to bed, but at about midnight he rapped on the floor of his room.  Mr. George went straight up to him, and was asked for a bottle of Chloral Hydrate P.B.;  Liebig’s Extract, and some water.

Having been supplied with these, the doctor filled a cup with water and the Chloral Hydrate and drank it;  Mr. George questioned the amount of Chloral, but the doctor said that he knew what he was doing.

Some time later, Mr. George returned to check on the doctor, and found that all the extract had gone from the bottle and the man was extremely ill so he sent for Dr. East.  By the time he arrived, it was too late, and although emetics were administred and artificial respiration was carried out death had claimed W.H. Robert Stanley.

Suicide was not suspected – more a case of addiction.

1893 – Traffic Offence

Benjamin Gwillim a farmer of Ewyas Harold was convicted of driving without lights, and Police Constable Boucher said that he had to unbuckle the reins to prevent the defendant from driving on.

A 19th century version of modern plods taken away car keys!

Benjamin was fined 5s with 10s 6d costs.

1899 – Ewyas Harold United

The members of Ewyas Harold United Football Club held their first dinner at the headquarters of the club, the Red Lion Inn.

Unfortunately the weather was so bad that attendance was poor.

1886 – Suspected Murder by Tramps

The body of an old woman was found in a shed at a brickyard in Ewyas Harold.

She had decided to search the shed for tramps, but when she didn’t return a search was made and she was discovered in a pool of blood.

Two tramps were arrested.

 1897 – Fatal Accident At Eye

Thomas Phillips was 56 years old and a farm labourer, having a wife Mary.

One evening, Thomas was working in the hay barn along with Henry Cook and Joseph Williams.  Steps were against a load of hay, and Thomas climbed up to the top and grabbed hold of the hay to help himself up – unfortunately he never made it on to the hay stack, and he fell back down to the stone floor.

Joseph Williams immediately went to his aid, and found Thomas bleeding from the nose but conscious.

Thomas went home and had some tea, then told his wife that he had worked hard and was “done now”.   Later that evening the doctor was called, and he discovered that Thomas had a fractured skull and had fallen into a coma;   there was nothing that could be done to save his life, but he was made as comfortable as possible until he died shortly afterwards.

At the inquest a verdict of Accidental Death was returned.

1901 – The Occasion of the Cantata at Eye

The occasion of the Cantata began with the breaking up of the Vicarage Home School;  during the afternoon parents and friends gathered at the Vicarage, and the schoolroom had been decorated for the event.

There was an exhibition of a selection of the term’s work, which highlighted the standard and reputation of the school.  There were paintings;  wild flower collections;  needlework and carving examples, with prizes being handed out to the children.

Tea was provided for a price, and this money combined with the offertory taken at the Cantata went towards the choir and organist fund.

The sacred concert began at 5.15 with a packed church, and the proceedings were declared to be absolutely delightful with Handel’s Largo the memorable feature of the occasion.

1912 – Maid spends an unpleasant night at Moreton Lodge

Fanny Brown was a 17 year old maid who worked for the Reverend Samuel Henry at Moreton Lodge.

Late one night, The Rev. Henry ran into Fanny’s bedroom, shouting that his wife had cut her own throat and that their baby was covered in her blood.

Fanny tended to the baby, and laid her down with two other small children before offering to go for help, the the Vicar stopped her saying that it would all wait until the morning;  he then took off his clothes and went to sleep on Fanny’s bed.

Some time later the Rev. Henry got up and asked for some breakfast before he set off to Leominster for help, but Fanny was frightened by his demeanour so took the baby to some neighbours before making the meal – a meal which the Rev. did not appear to enjoy.  It must have been really bad, because he then went to his study and shot himself, albeit not fatally.

When the police arrived, having been summoned by the neighbour, they found the Rev. holding his revolver, and his wife in her bedroom with her throat and wrist slashed.

The Inquest

Dr. Charles Robinson stated that evidence showed that she could not have committed suicide, and that death had been by the Vicar’s razor.

The jury quickly found Henry guilty of murder, but this was overturned when it was revealed that he was being treated by a doctor for mental problems.

The Vicar’s wife, Bertha Mary Henry is buried in Eye churchyard, and in 1925 Samuel Henry died aged 51 in Broadmoor.

1848 – Child burnt to Death

Mary Ann Tyler, a child of 18 months, was left in the care of her 4 year old sibling whilst their mother, Mary took her husband’s dinner to him.

When Mary returned some ten minutes later, she found that her toddler had escaped from the chair in which she had been fastened and was badly burnt.  Mr. Lingen, a Surgeon of Hereford, was sent for and he applied oils and gave restoratives, but to no avail – Mary Ann died late that night.

We have to remember that at this time it was quite usual for small children to be left in charge of even smaller children – something that would be unheard of in our own time.

1853 – Drowning in River Wye at Fownhope

In early July William Jenkins aged 19, who was employed by the keeper of the Fownhope Ferry, John Wigley, was taking two men who were working on the Hereford, Ross and Gloucester Railway across the river from Fownhope to the Holme Lacy side.  The men were Thomas Lawrence and James Hobley.

The river was in full spate and still rising, which made it impossible for William to land in the usual spot, and the ferry drifted down until it bashed into a coal barge being pulled by three horses.  The ferry overturned and all three men were thrown into the water, but Thomas Lawrence was able to catch hold of the barge and save himself.  Unfortunately, the other two were caught in the current and were carried down river, far too fast for anyone to help them.

The body of William Jenkins was found not far away, but James Hobley was nowhere to be seen – he had been due to be married just a few days after the tragedy.

The body of James Hobley was recovered a full 9 days later near to Foy.

1856 – Proposed New Bridge at Fownhope

A meeting was held at the Green Man Inn, Fownhope, in order to decide whether the project should be pushed forward.

Richard Hereford was in the Chair, and the Meeting approved the recommendation of the erection of a Bridge at Evenpitt instead of at the Mill Ford.

It was stated that funding was already very nearly in place, and that steps should be taking for obtaining an Act in Parliament.

Permission was eventually granted and the Fownhope and Holme Lacy Bridge Company was set up, with work being completed towards the end of 1858.

1859 – Opening of Fownhope and Holme Lacy Bridge

The new bridge was opening on 11th April 1859 for public use, and was an occasion of great rejoicing on both sides of the River Wye.

The tolls were fixed at a fairly low rate, with carriages and horses having to pay no more than at turnpike gates, and importantly, tickets would be issued for carriages, horses and waggons to pass and repass on the same day without having to pay again.  Foot passengers who previously had to pay one penny each time they were boated over, with a good chance of ending up in the water, would now just pay half that for each pass through the toll gate.

This new bridge enabled easy access from the Fownhope side to the railway station on the Holme Lacy side, and residents on both sides of the river would benefit greatly by being able to visit neighbours across the other side.

1859 – Inebriated in Church

W. Wilcocks of Fownhope had some rum in his Sunday morning coffee before going to St. Peter’s Church.

During the service it became clear that he was rather the worse for wear and a policeman was sent for;  by the time he arrive Wilcocks had left the church and was reeling around outside, where he was promptly charged.

He was fined 1s plus expenses.

1859 – Another Tragic death of Child

Thomas William Morgan, son of John Morgan an agricultural labourer, was left in the house with other children.

When the mother returned, she found him in the kitchen with his clothes on fire;  the lad died 24 hours later.

1862 – Christmas at Fownhope

The custom of giving a little money to the poor of the parish prevailed, in spite of many people beginning to think that gifts of coal at a reduced price or some useful article, would be more use than money.

In defence of the custom of giving money, it was said that the poor man’s wife knew better what she needed than the Lady of the Manor who didn’t really understand the needs of the poor, and that a shilling would go a long way to making Christmas more comfortable.

This was said of the Lady of the Manor:

“Let her try her hand on the layout out, say 10s or 12s per week for rent, coals, food and clothing for say four persons…..only see the bewilderment she would be in, not know where to begin;  and long before she had completed all she required, she would find her stock of money all gone.  We say this not to discourage the gift of any article to the poor, but we do say it to encourage a more liberal handed gift of a trifle of money at this time of year”

Through the generosity of the Vicar, Thomas Lechmere;  Thomas Evans;  R. Hereford;  J.Y. Stephens, Mr. Connop and other gentlemen, over 160 households were made happy at Christmas.

The report in the Hereford Journal went on to say:

“It was a pleasing sight to see the poor old man “sans eyes, sans teeth, sans everything”;  the poor old woman led by the hand of the grandchildren;  the lame, the halt, the blind, all wending their way towards the never to be forgotten barn at the Vicarage, where from the memory of the oldest it has been customary to dole out help to the need at this time of year.

We say, and say from the bottom of our hearts, may the custom never be done away with whilst England the proud, England the noble, England the charitable, the birthplace of liberty, the home of the slave – whilst she stands in all her glory, the wonder, the admiration of the world.   May the hand of kindness and love be ever extended to the poor in the manner we have shewed it is done at Fownhope”

Crikey!  How times have changed.

1862 – Luck’s All Beerhouse

George Gordan was enjoying a drink at the Luck’s All beerhouse where several other men were drinking away their wages;  an argument developed (not unusual in this establishment), which resulted in George being knocked to the floor and kicked.  This was not violent enough for the drunken men, and one picked up the kettle of boiling water from the fire and threw it over the poor chap.

George was very badly scalded on his face, head, shoulders and side, but even this did not satisfy the men and they then kicked him down a flight of stairs into the cellar.

He was taken to hospital, and for a while it was touch and go but gradually he recovered.

1867 – The Notorious Green Man at Fownhope

There were an enormous number of men being hauled before the Bench in the 19th century, for causing a drunken disturbance at the Green Man.

In May 1867, Richard Andrews was just the latest in a long line of cases, and he pleaded guilty to be drunk and riotous late at night in the pub.

The Chairman said that there were far too many cases from Fownhope, and something must be done about it – maybe he wondered, was there something wrong with the Green Man?  The Superintendent explained that for a while the pub had been left in the charge of two girls, but the father was back and it was not actually the fault of the people in the pub because the trouble makers got cider from elsewhere first.

It was stated that any and every case of drunkenness would be brought before the Bench.

1876 – Disgrace of Fownhope Magistrate

Mr. Thomas C. Lechmere of Fownhope Court, a County Magistrate and head of one of the oldest county families, was discovered drunk and incapable whilst driving a horse and trap in St. Ethelbert Street, Hereford. He was also charged with assaulting his wife and refusing to leave the residence of Mr. J. Cleave when asked to do so.

Mr. Cleave was a solicitor and clerk of the peace for the county, and he stated that Thomas called to his house in Hereford asking to see his wife, who it turned out had taken refuge there.  He was extremely drunk, and appeared quite mad with his conduct and language being excessively coarse.

His wife, Mrs. Lechmere came into the room, and Thomas tried to make her go home with him, but she flatly refused whereupon he whacked her on the side of the head.  It turned out that it was no new thing for her to be beaten by Thomas, and in fact this was why she had fled to the Cleave household that day.

Thomas was remanded in custody.

Thomas was too ill to attend Court, but Mr. G. Williams brought the case forward and pleaded guilty on Thomas’s behalf.  The fine of £2 and costs were promptly paid, and a similar amount was donated the poor.  He was also made to enter into a bond of £100 to keep the peace for 12 months.

How on earth did he continue to hear cases of others who were drunk and disorderly after this, or indeed cases of wife beating?  Perhaps he was never again allowed to.

1878 – Devastating Floods

In the space of a few hours, after torrential rain, the River Wye rose by some 16 feet, and many cottages close to the river found themselves almost submerged whilst livestock was swept away.

At one point, the river resembled a floating orchard with the amount of fruit being born away from orchards, and a railway bridge between Whitney and Clifford was destroyed, in  spite of the fact that it had recently being rebuilt in stone.

The whole vast expanse of Holme Lacy meadows was turned into a lake with only the tops of hedges and trees to be seen, and many roads were completely impassable.

1853 – Policeman killed by own Nephew

The last meeting of a mismanaged club in the parish of Foy took place at the end of May in the form of the annual club feast, which was always attended by people from far and wide.

Unfortunately, part of the allure was the drinking and amusements, and on many previous occasions there had been scuffles and incidents.  This time, several men stayed on to drink at the Anchor and Can pub until late at night when Mr. Hardwick the landlord tried to throw them out.  The men refused to go, and became abusive.

Mr. Hardwick had retained the services of two brothers who were both Constables, George and Charles Davis, and he called on their help to remove the abusive men, which eventually they managed to do.  However once outside, the drunken louts started smashing the windows of the pub with stones and sticks, and although Mr Hardwick tried to restrain the two Constables, they went into the affray to try to stop the men.  They were instantly turned on and beaten with the stones.

Managing to escape, the two brothers went into the pub bleeding profusely from head wounds, although George was the more severely wounded and before too long his condition deteriorated.  Dr. Rootes from Ross was sent for, but despite all efforts, George died the next morning.

Five men were arrested the next day, John Davis;  Thomas Russell;  Thomas Trilloe;  Thomas Adams and Thomas Wilkes, and it became dreadfully apparent that the man who gave the fatal blow was John Davis the nephew of George.  Actually, there were not all men at all, some of them were mere boys but all of them were agricultural labourers or farm servants.

At their initial hearing, none of them seemed to be aware of the seriousness of what they had done, and in fact seemed to find it quite funny much to the disgust of the court.  However after all the witnesses gave their evidence, and they themselves had to give theirs, they became rather quiet.  they were fully committed for trial on the capital charge at Hereford Assizes.

1859 – Drunk in charge of Horses

David Powell of Foy was charged with being incapable through drink of being in charge of a team of horses in his care.  The was also charged with leaving them unattended.

Superintendent Burridge reported that he found David lying beneath the wagon in such a position that he would have been killed if the horses had moved it forward by even one foot.

He was fined 10s with 19s expenses.

1859 – Child Dies on a Hot Day

William Dobson, aged just 6, was in the hay field of Mr. Burgum, along with his brothers and his parents who were working.

It was extremely hot, and by mid day William had fallen asleep in the sun;  he was awoken, and given cider to drink (but not too much apparently!), and it was stated that nobody threatened him or frightened him in any way.

After drinking the cider he appeared “stupid”, but nobody thought that the drink had anything to do with it, as William’s 14 year old brother Thomas had also had cider and was none the worse for it.

A little later, William collapsed and was unable to speak and at 10 o’clock that night was taken home.  He died early the next morning.

After hearing inconclusive results from a post mortem, the jury returned a verdict of Death by the Visitation of God in a natural way.

1861 – Desertion of Children

Mary Pember was charged with deserting her illegitimate children, and leaving them chargeable to the parish of Foy.

She was brought before the Magistrates but they discharged her from custody when she agreed to go back into the Ross Workhouse

 1832 – Illegal medical Practitioner caused death of Child?   Very Flawed Inquest

Ann Roberts, an 11 year old girl, became ill and her father called in an illegal medical practitioner who treated her for a few days then didn’t see her again.

Ann deteriorated over the following days until her father finally called in a surgeon who found the child near to death.  The surgeon questioned Ann’s father regarding her symptoms, and he said that the disease was sub-acute inflammation of the brain, or brain membranes which was causing death.

The child had been neither bled, leeched nor cupped and it was confirmed that the man treating her was an illegal medical practitioner.

The Inquest

Although the jury returned a verdict of “Died by the visitation of God”, it was said that there were aspects which should be explored.

Samuel Mallard of Whitchurch

Samuel Mallard sent a letter to the Monmouthshire Merlin detailing the above, and making his views known as follows:

First, where was the man who gave medicines to Ann?  He was the only one who had done this and he should have been at the inquest – it was supposed that he had not been told of the inquest, but had he been there he could have been asked whether he was legally authorised to practice.

Secondly, four surgeons were present at the inquest, but the body had not been examined by any of them.  Had it been so, the opinion of the surgeon who saw the dying girl could have proved either right or ill founded.

Thirdly, if a physician or surgeon treats a patient and that patient dies unexpectedly, then it is neither manslaughter nor murder and he should not be accused as such;  however, if it is NOT a proper doctor or surgeon who gives medicine or performs an operation, then it is manslaughter at the very least.

Finally, the question was asked – what was the point in an inquest when the key person was not even there to answer the question as to whether he was qualified or not, and on that the whole issue rested.

Samuel finished by saying

“I would now inquire whether in the above case, the law which demanded the inquest has been enforced, or whether there hasbeen merely the pageantry of an inquest, which has failed in protecting the public from the fatal effects of the maltreatment of empirics? – and thus has not the law of the land been violated.”

1856 – Beacon Fire leaves Ganarew Cold

In 1856 there were two instances where a beacon was lit on the Malvern Hills, one at the end of the Crimean War, and one to settle a bet between two men who disagreed about the distance from which the fire could be seen.

Preparations were impressive, and a massive bonfire was built.  As well as the expected flames, there were to be blue and red rockets.

The people of Ganarew joined in the experiment with alacrity but were sadly disappointed.  No blue lights, rockets nor indeed fire were seen, in spite of the hardy souls waiting for hours in the bitterly cold wind.  Eventually they headed for home, grumbling all the way no doubt.

As a matter of interest, this is the result, and bear in mind that the night was frosty and starlit:

Hereford – just a red haze seen.

Worcester – suffice it to say, there were a huge number of very disappointed people.

Robin Hoods Hill, Gloucester – Very clearly saw it.  I should hope so given how close it was.

Dudley – they thought they saw it;  pretty certain actually.

The Wrekin – Salop – nothing seen

Tewkesbury – signal clearly seen.

Bath – not a sausage.

Bristol – (where they hoped to see a reflection of the fire), nothing.

1861 – Animal Cruelty not Tolerated

This is just one of many such cases in Herefordshire – it is heartening that 19th century folk generally abhorred ill treatment of animals.

Thomas Taylor was charged with cruelty to a donkey at Ganarew, which resulted in the poor animal’s death.

He was ordered to pay £1 for the value of the donkey, plus 10s 6d costs, as well as being fined 11s for the cruelty with 8s costs.  In default of payment, he was sentenced to three months hard labour.

1866 – Marriage of the Widow of the late Rev. J. Clarke M.A.

The marriage took place in Ganarew in August, of Mrs. Clarke, widow of the late Rector of Stretford and Rural Dean of Manchester, and youngest daughter of the late Roger Hunter of Liverpool, married Major General Carthew of Her Majesty’s Indian Army, of Bradenham Hall, Oxford.

The villagers determined to make an occasion of the event and turned out en masse in their Sunday best to welcome the wedding party who arrived in six carriages.  The old church was beautifully decorated.

1884 – Extreme Summer Heat

An exceptional heatwave during the summer of 1884 led to several people dying from heatstroke.

One such person was a labourer by the name of Daniels who was working on a farm at Ganarew.  He suffered for two days before dying.

1897 – Doctor Thrown by his Horse

Dr. S.H. Wright of Ganarew was killed when he fell from his bolting horse.

1837 – Fatality at Garway Wrestling Match

The wrestling match at Garway on Sunday 15th October 1837 ended with the death of a man called James Gritton who died from injuries received from a man named Hill.

James was an expert wrestler, and often went to fairs and feasts in order to fight;  on this particular day he fought several men and threw them all.  Subsequently, several men, including Hill, challenged James to fight which initially he declined.  Eventually he gave in, and began to fight Hill – after some time, James fell to his knees and Hill kicked him in the ribs;  he continued to fight unfairly with huge lack of sportsmanship.

The two seconds at the match immediately scarpered, and it wasn’t until September 1838 that one of them, William Prosser, was taken into custody. The other second, Richard Harris, remained at large.

The principal in the transaction of the fight, Richard Hill, was convicted in March 1838 and sentenced to four months imprisonment.

1856 – A Post Office for Garway

At long last, Garway was given a post office which was opened at the house of John Powell on Garway common.

There was some grumbling about the fact that it was not nearer the centre of the parish, but nevertheless it was very welcome.

For more on John Powell see the next article.

1857 – Delinquent Parish Constable & Sub Postmaster

John Powell of Garway had been Constable for the parish for 15 years, and was also sub-postmaster and letter carrier between Garway and St. Weonards.  Well respected and totally trusted as well as being much liked, it came as a huge shock to all and sundry when it became clear that he was a serial thief.

He was discovered in the granary of a farmer in Garway, Mr. James Bennett, in the early hours one morning, preparing to take away a bushel and a half of wheat.  Skeleton keys were found in John’s pocket, which later were discovered to open any house door in the area.

The charge being proved, John Powell admitted his guilt, but even so,  kind previous employers and friends were willing to pay for him to go abroad on release from prison.

John was given a fairly lenient sentence of three months hard labour, mainly because of the excellent character references given.

1863 – Garway Shopkeepers Diddled Customers

After an Inspector’s visit in October 1863, three men were charged with having “unjust” scales, which were against the purchaser.

William Saunders of Garway – for having unjust scales in his shop and unjust coal scales in the yard – fined 2s 6d plus expenses of 16s

Philip Watkins of Garway –  for having unstamped yard measure;  plus a large pair of scales;  flour scales, small scales;  copper tea scales, and brass scales – fined 2s 6d for each offence plus costs, amounting to £1 10s.

Charles Price of Garway – for having an unjust weighing machine, but he said he had only taken on the business the day before and he promised to put the weighing apparatus in order before selling anything.  His case was dismissed.

1867 – Mother blamed for death of Baby

George Arthur, whose mother was working in the hay fields of Mr. Pearson, tragically died whilst lying in the grass.

The mother had left the baby in the charge of an elder child of hers, and although she did return to feed him and make sure that he was not lying in full sun,  it was eight in the evening before we went to pick him up to go home and found him dead.

At the inquest, the surgeon Mr. R. Thompson said that death was by natural causes, but that he thought the baby should have been fed frequently during the day.

The jury returned a verdict of death from natural causes, adding that they considered the mother to blame for not having fed the baby more often on that day.

1870 – Shocking Actions of Spurned Suitor

Amos Morris of Garway was employed as a waggoner by John Embrey, who also had in his employ a young lady.

Amos was somewhat taken by the young lady, but she continually rejected his advances as she already had a boyfriend, and Amos became more and more bitter, saying on several occasions that he would take away his own life.  He was in fact once found making preparations to hang himself.

Then, on 18th December the banns were read for the first time in Garway Church between the girl and Thomas Clark, a Carpenter from the district, and Amos was incensed.

The following day Amos went into the house of his employer and said that the girl was lying in the cowhouse unable to get up – John Embrey immediately went to check on her and found her unconscious and very badly beaten.  As she was carried to the house, a gunshot was heard, and it was discovered that Amos had shot himself and was quite dead.

1893 – Deprivation of a Vicar

The Rev. Henry de Burgh Sidley, vicar of Garway, was charged with three specific charges of adultery, and it transpired that he was guilty of immorality with a girl named Laura Wiggle.

Henry, aged between 60 and 70,  was not present at the Court where it was stated that the girl had been a servant at the first lodgings of Henry, and was also  HIS servant when he went into other lodgings.

He was deprived of his vicarage and church at Garway and other emoluments in the diocese.

He went into lodgings, but the in 1894 he was taken ill and died.  At first rumours were rife that he had taken poison to end his own life, due to his undoubted financial difficulties and very low spirits.  However, a post mortem revealed that death was due to heart disease.

1854 – RSPCA charge Glewstone Farmer with Cruelty

Thomas Barnett a farmer of Glewstone was brought to court by the RSPCA for having knowingly caused the suffering and ill treatment of horses. He was a respected Deacon in the Baptist Church.

Thomas pleaded not guilty, but Mr. Forster acting for the RSPCA was less than impressed, and gave evidence of long term neglect and starvation which had resulted in the horses becoming emaciated and terrified.

Mr. Blossett, superintendent of the Ross district Police went with Henry Mabe to examine the horses at work – four in a field and three in a chaff cutting machine.  He found them all to be in a deplorable state, with five so weak that they could barely stand.  They had raw wounds all over their bodies and were crawling with lice as well as suffering from mange.

Mr. Forster and Mr. Blossett seized the horses, and had great difficulty in coaxing them along the three miles to Ross on Wye.

When labourers in the employ of Barnett were interviewed, they said that they had repeatedly asked for salve to rub on the wounds, and to be allowed to ease the collars on the horses, but to no avail.

For the defence, Mr. Pritchard complained about exaggeration, and said that it was well known that horse fodder was in short supply this year and horses had suffered because of it, but there was no need for imputing to the defendant “any wanton neglect of his brutes”.

The horses were brought to the Court for inspection by the Magistrates, and on their return said that it required no more than a swift glance at the horses to see that gross neglect and cruelty was proved against the defendant, and Barnett was fined the highest possible penaly, i.e £5 plus costs – not quite the prison sentence that  Mr. Forster hoped for.

It would seem that this was one of the first court cases of its kind brought by the RSPCA, and the Bench said that it was a “significant instance of usefulness” – the Town Hall was completely packed throughout the four hour proceedings.

1864 – Discarded Pipe causes Disastrous Fire

A thatcher was employed at the farm of Charles Kearsey, a renowned breeder of Cotswold sheep and a dedicated farmer – the farm as a whole was said to be one of the best in the County.

The thatcher was in the rickyard near to the other farm buildings, and was happily puffing on his pipe;  he briefly put the pipe down (still lit) into one of the lancet holes of the barn and before too long a fire was raging.

There had been a long drought and everything was tinder dry so the flames spread rapidly from one building to another in spite of attempts by other workmen to quench the flames.

All the crops grown at Glewstone which had been safely brought under cover were destroyed, as well as all the stock and buildings.

Mr. Kearsey was only partly insured.

1866 – Ferryman Drowns in the Wye

Allan Price aged about 20, son of Mrs. Price of the Glewstone Boat Inn, was preparing to ferry two women over the river.

One woman climbed into the boat and the other was about to follow suit – Allan was leaning on the pole in order to steady the boat when the pole snapped and sent him sprawling into the water.  He immediately sank and didn’t resurface.

Meanwhile, the boat with the two screaming women aboard, floated off down the river until a chap named Thomas Jenkins got into another boat and set off after the women, but on spying  Allan’s hat in the water he made a grab for it thinking it might be Allan himself beneath it……sadly he too fell overboard!

However, whilst in the water he made several dives to see if he could find Allan’s body, but had no luck and eventually he gave up and swam to shore where he secured the boats.

Some three weeks later, Allan’s body was found about a quarter of a mile down river – strangely, the corpse was not decomposed in any way.

Even more strange was the fact that Allan’s sister drowned in a similar accident some 18 years earlier, and her body too was not found for 21 days either……..she was found in the same spot as Allan.

1891 – Drowning at Glewstone

On Friday 23rd October 1891, several young men were returning from a ploughing match at Hom Farm…..they had to cross the River Wye by boat, but when nearing the Glewstone bank their boat was caught by the current and they were carried some 12 yards downstream.

One man named Hopkins jumped out of the boat which caused it to rock violently, and Thomas Carter and Leonard Price were thrown out and were drowned in the fast flowing water.

Thomas Carter’s body was quickly found but of Leonard Price there was no sign.

1893 – Anthrax Outbreak

Anthrax was rearing its ugly head around the Ross on Wye Area of Herefordshire.

In August concern was expressed at the fact that Mr. C. Lee Campbell of Glewstone Court had Anthrax on his farm, and that an adjoining meadow with 20 cows had had its first case confirmed.

The treatment was burning of carcases, followed by the closure of the meadow for a month, but Veterinary Surgeron, Mr. Barling, suggested also using sulphuric acid.

1893 – Another Drowning in the Wye

George Williams, 31, lived at Glewstone and had served in the army in the Egyptian campaign, as well as in India where he had suffered severe heatstroke.

When he came home from India it was noticed that he often behaved rather oddly, which everyone thought was because of the sunstroke episode.

One Saturday evening he left home and was not seen until Tuesday morning when he called at the Albion Inn rather drunk;   then he called at a house in Walford where resided James Sims,  to ask for some cider.  After he left, James heard a shout and when he ran to the river saw a man in the water who was being carried downstream.

It seems that George Williams had said that he was going to swim across the river for a bet, but nobody took him seriously.

George died on his birthday.

1899 – Cider Mill Destroyed by Fire

The Ross Fire Brigade was summoned to a property at Glewstone owned by Mr. Matthews when fire broke out early one morning.

When they arrived it was too late, a cider mill and a pig sty had burnt down.

The property was insured.

1826 – Don’t Trust the Wife

John Jones of Goodrich posted a notice in the papers cautioning the public not to trust his wife Sylvia Jones.

He said that he would not be accountable for any debts she contracted after the notice which was posted on 5th March 1826

1844 – Illegal Salmon Fishing

Thomas Williams of Goodrich was summoned before the Bench for using an illegal mesh net to fish for salmon in the River Wye.

He was fined five pounds.

The good people of Goodrich were not deterred by fines in those days – there was many a case of men being charged with illegal salmon fishing.

1848 – Goodrich Ferry Accident

Mrs. Mary Bampfield, a 25 year old with three children lived at the Ferry Boat Inn at Goodrich with her husband.  She often ferried people over the Wye and was fairly experienced having done it for three years or so.

On 17th March 1848  Mary took two men over the river which was low and calm, but there was always a strong current and the Ferry Boat Inn side was quite difficult to land a boat on.  One of Mary’s children saw her fall out of the boat near the bank, but by the time helpers rushed to the water she had disappeared, and although they dragged the bottom for some time they found nothing.

Mary’s body was eventually recovered some weeks later.

1855 – Boat Tour of the Wye

Pleasure boat trips are nothing new!

The public boat to Goodrich Court and Castle sailed from Ross on Wye daily at midday, with a fare of 1s each.

The pleasure boat proprietor was Joseph Evans

1862 – Goodrich Ferry Back in Use

The ferry boat was once again running due to Dr. Jones who laboured to this effect.

It was immediately well used and the public were hugely grateful, although the roads on either side of the river crossing were in bad repair.  Dr. Jones put his energies into doing something about it.

1864 – Husband kills Wife

Mary Ann Watkins, 24, (in some newspapers reported as Elizabeth Watkins) was a poor but hard working woman living at Hamnish with her three young children;  she had fallen out with her husband, Thomas Watkins,  two years earlier when he discovered her with another man, and when he left her they were forced to go into the Leominster Workhouse.

Eventually, Mary and her children left the Workhouse and whilst lodging at the house of George Smith in Hamnish,  managed to get by through washing for others, and similar work, and whilst she was undoubtedly struggling it was a far better life for her little family than in the Workhouse.

Thomas went into the Royal Marines, where he served for about a year and a half,  but then he deserted the regiment and returned to the Hamnish area, sleeping rough at times, or going to his wife’s lodgings and staying for a couple of days.  He was worried that Mary was going to turn him in and told a Mrs. Rebecca Martin that he would make sure that she never had the chance.

Before too long, there were whispers that Thomas had deserted the Marines and that he had been seen locally,  one report said that he had clogs on with iron plates on the bottom, but nobody put much store by it until one night Mary was returning from work through a field and was badly attacked.

Late that night of 18th January 1864,  a man named Lippett heard moaning coming from the side of the footpath, and on investigation found Mary in a dreadful state and covered in blood.  Despite desperate attempts to revive her, she never regained consciousness and died from her serious head injuries, which included one gash so deep that the brain showed through.  The skull seemed smashed to pieces, and it was later discovered that the injuries were inflicted with a bill hook.

The chief suspect was her husband, partly because of known threats of violence towards his wife, and partly because marks of a person wearing clogs were found next to where the murder occurred, but it took some time to track him down.

At his trial, desperate attempts were made by his defence to reduce the charge to manslaughter but the Judge and Jury were having nothing of it, and Thomas was found guilty of Murder…..the black cap was produced, and the death sentence duly passed.  He was hanged in April 1864

1846 – Tragic Death of Girl of “Unsound Mind” at Hampton Bishop

Elizabeth Wheatstone, a young woman with mental problems, ran away from the home of a friend who was taking care of her, and advertisements were posted in the hope that someone would spot her.

Unfortunately, a few days later her body was found in the River Wye at Hampton Bishop.

1851 – Shotgun Accident at Carrots Inn, Hampton Bishop

Mr. Winney a young man of Pencombe was taking part in a pigeon shooting contents at the Carrots Inn to win a “monster fat pig”.

His own gun was in need of repair, so he borrowed a double barrelled fowling gun, and had some success shooting with it during the day.  When he finished, he was asked by Mr. Piper – one of three men who had tied with killing three birds each – to shoot for him in the tie, and Winney readily agreed.

Mr. Winney killed two birds, then, possibly to make doubly sure of his final shot, he overcharged the gun with the result that the barrel exploded completely removing his left thumb.

Mr. Winney took the shock with remarkable poise and when Mr. Piper took the final shot and won the pig, he kindly gave it to Mr. Winney.

1853 – Child Burnt to Death in Hampton Bishop

George Barnett aged just three years and eight months, was left alone with his 8 year old sister and another child younger than himself.  This of course was nothing unusual for the time, and the 8 year old was probably well used to being left in charge of her younger siblings.

George must have strayed too close to the fire, and suddenly his clothes were alight causing him to scream – William Scisons heard his cries and ran to help, but sadly the child died two days later in the Infirmary.

1855 – Accidental Gunshot at Hampton Bishop

Miss Louisa Money, along with her brother, were visiting the Rev. Canon and Mrs. Huntingford at Hampton Bishop.

Louisa was leaning out of an window on the upper floor of the mansion talking to her brother who had been shooting – unfortunately he dropped the gun on the ground and it went off.  A portion of the charge hit Louisa in the face.

Doctors were immediately called for and Dr. Bleeck Lye and C. Lingen Esq. attended to her;  they found shot in her face and her eyes, but she went on to make a good recovery.

1858 – Incredible Meteor Sighting at Hampton Bishop

A gentleman from Hampton Bishop wrote to the Hereford Times regarding a meteor that he saw above the village on 27th September 1858 at around 8.30 in the evening.

He first saw it in a south easterly direction, and it progressed rapidly along an arc of nearly 90 degrees before disappearing behind cloud in the north east near to the star Capella.  Despite the speed, he said that it was nowhere near as fast as normal shooting stars.

There was a beautiful sparkling tail, and it was far bigger than the nucleus of Donati’s Comet as well as being much brighter that Venus.  There was absolutely no noise.

1862 – Rare Bird Caught and Killed at Hampton Bishop

Very sad, but they knew no better at the time.

As reported in the Hereford Journal :

TO BE SEEN AT JOHN BRUTON’S, EAST STREET, HEREFORD

“A bird called the AWKE, being the smallest diving bird known, which was caught by Mr. James Watkins, Butcher, Hampton Bishop and has been stuffed by Mr. Grey.

It is supposed to come from Greenland and the only specimen of the kind ever caught in England.

1864 – Death of Mother and Baby at Hampton Bishop

Elizabeth Wargent from Lugwardine, a lady’s maid accompanying her mistress on a visit to the Vicarage at Hampton Bishop began to feel rather unwell.

Early in the morning she was totally unable to dress her mistress as usual, and said that she had dreadful tummy ache;  she disappeared into the loo and was heard to be groaning and crying.

Concerned staff broke down the door, and found her slumped on the loo quite dead……….. there was a newborn baby in the water, also sadly dead.

The post mortem concluded that the mother had bled to death, whilst the baby had of course drowned.

Elizabeth was described as having an irreproachable character, and one wonders from the report whether she actually realised that she was pregnant.

1867 – Death of Rev. Canon Huntingford

The Rev. Canon Huntingford D.C.L, Rector of Hampton Bishop died in November 1867 aged 80.

He was the nephew of the Bishop Huntingford and came to Hampton Bishop in 1822.  He was made Canon in 1838 and was also master of St. Catherine’s Hospital in Ledbury.

He was much loved and respected by his parishioners, and was buried in Hampton Bishop

1899 – Fire on Farm at Hampton Bishop

Fire broke out on the farm of William Henry Bailey of Hampton Bishop one Sunday night, and Henry Tyson, one of Mr. Bailey’s workmen, rode to Hereford Police Station for help.

The fire brigade with its large manual engine, pulled by four horses sped to the scene, where they found a barn;  one side of the fold yard and a shed with a new hay rick on the other side in flames.

The firemen strove for hours to put out the fire, along with numerous neighbours, but were greatly hampered by the lack of water and the barn, rick and shed burnt to the ground.

It was supposed that children playing with matches caused the fire.

The Head Constable was somewhat scathing of farmers in general for not cleaning their pools out properly every year, thus keeping plenty of water available in the event of fire.

1899 – Swine Fever at Hampton Bishop

Mr. Mailes, a dealer of Hampton Bishop, was discovered to have Swine Fever on his farm.

The infection was thought to have been brought in from Ledbury from where he had bought some pigs, and Mr. S. Beeson the Veterinary Inspector for Hereford county destroyed the 39 animals which were infected.

As a precaution, the remaining pigs on the farm were also killed but they were deemed fit for human consumption.  The area around Mr. Mailes’ farm was declared an infected area, and nobody was allowed to move their stock.

1836 – Drink leads to Fatal Accident

Richard Hayward aged 33 had been drinking in the Red Lion, along with his brother and a friend, and was said to already have been drunk when he arrived there.  He had a final glass of cider and left to go home, but no doubt the cold air hit him and he fell in the road.

The Mazeppa Coach on its way from Ross to Hereford was proceeding at a steady pace with three lights in front, when the Coachman felt the carriage go over a bump, whereupon he pulled up and went to investigate.  He found Richard in an advanced state of drunkenness, and help was called for so that he could be taken back to the Red Lion, and from there to his father’s house at Hentland.

He died the next day, with broken ribs, punctured lungs and a broken leg.

Although at the inquest the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, the comment was made that “It is hoped that the fate of this unfortunate man will be a caution to those give way to the ruinous and beastly habit of drinking to excess”.

1842 – Masonic Festival

In May 1842, the day was appointed for the laying in masonic order of the foundation stone of a new house at Daison in Hentland parish.

The Brethren of Vitruvian Lodge came from the Royal Hotel, Ross on Wye in the early afternoon on board a carriage and four, the postilians wearing the Queen’s Livery.  They were preceded by a band, and followed by many Masons from Ledbury.

Brother Phelps was most hospitable, and the Lodge having been  formed, many people were invited to go in to view it, including Mrs. Symonds of Pengethley.

“After 3 o’clock the Brethren preceded by the band, the operative masons and Mr. Pearson the builder proceeded to the place.  The usual preliminaries having been completed, the prayer was read in the most solemn and impressive manner by the Rev. Mr. Hawkshaw of Hoarwithy who kindly attended for the purpose.  The stone was laid by the Worshipful Master, Brother Price, amidst the hearty cheers of the assembled spectators, after which the Worshipful Master delivered a very able charge.  At the conclusion of the ceremony, several rounds of applause were given for the Rev. T.P. Symonds, Mrs. Symonds, the landlord, the Rev. Mr. Hawkshaw and Mr. and Mrs. Phelps.  The procession then returned in order to the Lodge room, which having closed, the festivities of the evening were again resumed, and continued until 8 o’clock when the Brethren separated”.

1848 – Child Drowns in River

Many Herefordshire villages lie close to a river, and records are littered with tragic drownings – this is a typical case.

In December 1848 Joseph Preece aged 6 was sent to the River Wye to fill a kettle of water – he never returned.

His father Daniel was sent for, and eventually he went to the river with several neighbours and they began to search from a boat, using poles with hooks on the end to probe the river bed.

Before too long, “little Joe’s” body was located and brought to the surface.

He was described as a very careful lad.

1851 – Transportation for Highway Robbery

John Roberts was removed to Millbank Prison prior to being transported for fifteen years.

He had attempted highway robbery, but it went wrong when he grabbed the leg of his victim in order to pull him off his horse, but in fact only succeeded in removing one boot and that was due to the fact that the man had loosened his boot because of a bad leg.  The victim was able to gallop off with money and valuables intact.

1853 – Sad Suicide of a “Lunatic”

Mrs. Ann Gwyne, aged 51 of Hentland, took her own life by hanging herself from her bed post.

Ann’s son in law, a farmer named John Dew, attended the inquest and said that she had lived with him for nearly a year, but had been of unsound mind for a considerable time.  She had been taken in to the Whitchurch Assylum under Dr. Millard three times up until 1852, and on the last occasion had stayed there for over a year – trying once to strangle herself.

She left the asylum still unwell, and whilst with her son in law gave no indication that she was a danger to herself;  on the morning of her death she locked herself in her room, and eventually John broke the door down and found her hanging on the tester of the bed by a black silk handkerchief.

She left two children.

1859 – Assault by Hentland Man

Michael Marsh testified in Court that he was driving along the Hereford road with his master’s team, when he met Daniel Smith of Hentland.

The conversation, if it could be called that:

Daniel Smith – “Well bumpkin!”

Michael Marsh – “Well, fathead!”

Michael tried to draw away but Daniel hit him with a stick, cutting his lips badly, then as he turned, Daniel hit him on the back of the head knocking him down before kicking him and breaking his ribs.

Daniel Smith was convicted of assault and order to pay £5 including costs which he was unable to pay;  he was then committed to the County Gaol for two months.

1860 – Yet another Child Burnt

The incidence of this sort of thing occurs time and time again when reading through old papers, and always as a result of children being left alone.  In the 19th century, the verdict after the inquest was always Accidental Death because it was accepted that children had to be left alone.

Emma Evans, a four year old was left with other children whilst their mother went out;  they had been told to be careful of the fire.

Before too long, the mother was summoned by another daughter, Ellen who said that Emma had been pushed against the grate whilst they were playing and she was on fire.

The mother rushed home, by which time another daughter had thrown water on Emma and put the flames out, but she was so badly burned that she died the next day.

In the first two weeks of February 1844, no less than four children died from burns in Herefordshire :

James Price aged 3 of Clifford near Hay;  John Gaulder aged 5 of Whitchurch near Monmouth;  Emma Trigg aged 3 of Ross and  Sarah Gunter aged 5 of Hentland

1860 – Elderly Man Falls from Hay Rick

Thomas Jones aged around 59, of Hentland, was on top of a hay rick cutting out fodder for cattle when he fell;  his injuries resulted in his death.

It was said that he suffered from a “complaint in the head” and that “his habits at times were very peculiar”.  It seems that on occasion he had confined himself to the house for long periods, without speaking to a soul.

The verdict at his inquest was that he died from the effects of the accident.

1862 – Circular Saw Accident

This makes me cringe!

Joseph Reece was using a circular saw whilst he worked for his master, George Watkins, at Hentland.

The saw caught his hand which was so badly cut that amputation was necessary and his hand was removed from above the wrist.

1867 – Hentland Vicar’s Horse Bolts

The Rev. W. Poole of Hentland, along with his groom were on their way home from Hereford when the horse became frightened in Bridge Street and bolted back into the city.

The Rev. Poole was driving but was thrown clear from his seat, leaving the poor groom hanging on for grim death having no reins or means of stopping the horse.

The runaway clattered up King Street at top speed, bashing into a pony and trap which overturned and caused the horse to be even more panic stricken.  It galloped along the pavement of Broad Street, running head first into the palisade of All Saints Church, before carrying on to High Town.  Pedestrians were scattering in all directions, but thankfully nobody was hurt – and neither was the horse which was only brought to a standstill when it arrived at Mordiford Turnpike gate.

1899 – Fire in Hay Rick

Time and time again I have read of fires both in the home and on the farm, caused by children playing with matches.  This was just one incident:

Charlotte Freeman who lived at Bone Mill on Trellack Farm, Hentland, spotted a hay rick on fire one morning.  She immediately sent a messenger to the Wormelow Tump fire engine who charged to the scene.

Sadly, because there was little water to hand there was little that they could do and 25 tons of hay were destroyed.  The hay belonged to Mr. Smythe of Trellack Farm, and fortunately he was insured.

The origin of the fire was found to have been caused by children aged 7, 5 and 4 who were playing with matches – they were found near to the fire with the incriminating matches in their possession.

1899 – Common Rights at Hentland Upheld

Early in 1899 a sawpit was dug on the common land at Chapel Tumps, Hentland.

On 22nd September the inhabitants and nearby villagers, about 60 in all, gathered together and upheld their Common Rights by filling in the pit and destroying the obstructions.

Mr. H.M. Davies, yeoman provided a cask of cider and a bonfire was lit before the protestors indulged in singing and dancing to music.

Mr. J. Scudamore made a small speech, telling everyone that it had been common land since time immemorial and that it was their responsibility to keep it that way.

After cheers for H.M. Drew, H.H. Stock, J. Scudamore and the “Mayor of Chapel Tumps” the National Anthem was sung and the villagers went on their way.

1841 – Broken Stirrup Leather kills Miller at Hoarwithy

Mr. Joseph Seal, a Miller of Hoarwithy was riding home when his stirrup leather broke, causing him to fall off – unfortunately he landed on his head.

He was taken to the Black Lion Inn, Wyebridge Street where he lay unconscious with little hopes of recovery.

1854 – New Bridge over River Wye

Notice was given of an application that was to be made to Parliament for an Act to incorporate a Company to build and maintain a bridge, with all that necessitated including toll houses, toll gates etc., and roads leading to and from the site over the River Wye near the Hoarwithy Ferry.

The building of the bridge was subsequently approved, and when built was described as “a most picturesque and ingenious piece of wood and stone workmanship”

1854 – Monster Salmon Caught in River Wye at Hoarwithy

Mr. White, a fishmonger in Widemarsh Street Hereford, proudly put on display a salmon caught in the Wye at Hoarwithy, which weighed nearly 30 lbs and measured well over three feet in length.

1855 – Rabies hits Hoarwithy

A dog diagnosed with rabies was on the loose in the area of Hoarwithy, and it was known to have bitten several other dogs.

The dog was was finally caught by Thomas Buckham of Bosham, and it was quickly put down;  all the dogs that had been bitten were to be rounded up and immediately destroyed in order to prevent further spread of the disease.

1857 – A Bad Lad from Hoarwithy

Henry Heysom aged 13 of Hoarwithy was in court from stealing bread and bacon from James Price at Harewood Grange.

He pleaded guilty, and as he had a previous conviction of housebreaking, he was sentenced to one month’s hard labour, and also to be whipped.

1858 – Child Burnt at Hoarwithy

No village in Herefordshire escaped this headline in the 19th century.

A two and a half year old girl, the daughter of Ann Andrews of Hoarwithy, fell against the grate and her pinafore burst into flames.

She was taken to Hereford infirmary the following day where she died from the effects of the burns.

1860 – Drowning of Valuable Man from Hoarwithy

On 22nd June 1860, two men by the name of William Suff and John Kent travelled by boat on the River Wye from Hoarwithy bark yard to Cary in order to take faggots to place under surplus bark.

They put the faggots in a boat, but when they reached the railway bridge at Carey the boat hit the bridge pier and broke in half which sent both men into the river.

John Kent made it safely to land, but William Suff had hit his head and quickly drowned.  His body was recovered the next morning.

John was 62 and had been working for Messrs. W. and J. Matthews for over 16 years – his ricks of oak bark at Hoarwithy were greatly admired by all, and his employers knew that they had “lost a valuable man, whose services they could scarcely hope to again so effectively replace”.

1832 – Rapturous Welcome Home for Sir Edwyn and Lady Scudamore Stanhope at Holme Lacy

In July 1832, Sir Edwyn and Lady Scudamore Stanhope returned to the county after being away for four years,  to be greeted by a massively enthusiastic welcome, which began at Hoarwithy and culminated at Caldicot turnpike near to their home.

At the turnpike the astounded pair were greeted by hundreds of their tenants on horseback, as well as gentlemen and tradesmen from all around – they wore laurel in their hats and knotted blue ribbons.  Many more were on foot, and every one of them began cheering as the couple drove up.

Sir Edwyn managed to find a space to jump down from his phaeton, and began shaking hands with anyone within reach;  eventually he got back on his carriage and they moved on to the park gate where there were flags and banners, and a band playing superb music.

The approach to the house

Somehow, the cavalcade managed to order themselves, with the horsemen in front riding two abreast, followed by those on foot six abreast – the estimated numbers were between two and three thousand.

At the house a whole ox and six sheep had been roasted, and there was a wagon load of bread and many casks of cider and ale for the assembled multitude to enjoy during the evening.

Sir Edwyn Gives a Speech

To deafening cheers, Sir Edwyn and his party entered the house and appeared on the balcony above the front door where he made a rousing speech of thanks for his welcome, and gave assurances that he would always take care of their welfare and comforts.

He ended his speech by saying that he would not keep them any longer from the festivities that waited for them, and retired with more cheers ringing in his ears.

A “saucy whore” is thrashed

The night’s celebrations went well outside, except for one small incident of a “saucy whore” who became drunk on cider and proposition the Mayor;  she was thoroughly beaten for her troubles by a servant of the Mayor much to the delight of onlookers.

1850 – Inquest on Wagon Accident at Holme Lacy

Benjamin Morris, married to Susan, was hauling bricks and tiles for William Partridge of Ballingham, and during the afternoon went home to collect another horse to help pull the wagon up Bower pitch.

Later in the evening, he arrived back home with blood pouring from his mouth and nose, and called for help – several men carried him into the house where he related that his horse “Smiler” had knocked him over and the wheel of the wagon had passed over him.

Susan sent for the surgeon Mr. Mailes, who said that Benjamin had lost  a great deal of blood, and he didn’t hold much hope of a recovery.  He gave Benjamin some brandy and water, but he died early in the morning.

1856 – Dishonesty on the Train

Mr. Timothy Smith, a well respected farmer from Holme Lacy attempted to get away with travelling in a second class carriage on the Hereford, Ross and Gloucester Railway without buying a ticket.

The Bench informed Mr. Smith at the hearing that he should really be given three months in prison for his “silly conduct”, but they had decided that a fine including costs of £1 18s 8d would teach him a lesson.

1862 – Christmas Cheer at Holme Lacy

Sir Edwyn Scudamore Stanhope, Bart. of Holme Lacy, in another example of his generosity, gave 1100lbs of top quality beef to the poor of the parishes of Holme Lacy, Ballingham and Bolstone.

In addition, any poor householder in Holme Lacy who could give twopence, received five hundred weight of coal.

1863 – Died by the Visitation of God or Sudden Death from Natural Causes?

Ann Pocknell, a spinster aged 58 of Holme Lacy,  had been unwell for some time and was being treated by Dr. Bull at the Dispensary.  She had suffered a paralytic stroke, and was severely disabled.

She went to bed one Friday night and died in the early hours of the next morning.

The verdict was “Died by the Visitation of God”

In the same year, Thomas Dallow the baby son of a farmer of Holme Lacy contracted a cold, and died.

The verdict was “Sudden Death from natural causes”.

I am wondering what distinction was made when coming to these conclusions.

1887 – Obituary for Earl of Chesterfield, The Right Hon. Henry Edwyn Chandos Scudamore Stanhope.

The ninth Earl of Chesterfield of Holme Lacy, Herefordshire, died at St. Leonards on 21st January 1887.

He was born on 8th April 1821 and was educated at Balliol College, Oxford.  He acted as J.P. and D.L. for Herefordshire.

He married Dorothea Hay in 1851, she being the eldest daughter of Sir Adam Hay.

1899 – Spirit Cask Explodes at Holme Lacy

Mr. Henry Hodgkiss of Upper and Lower Bogmarsh, Holme Lacy, had bought several empty spirit casks in Hereford Produce Market, for storing cider.

Harvey William, Mr. Hodgkiss’ third son, helped to unload the casks from the wagon, and decided to remove the bung from a hundred gallon cask – on detecting strong spirit fumes, he lit a match to see if there was any liquor remaining…….there was a great fizzing noise and then there was a huge bang “as loud as a canon”.

The cask shattered into smithereens although the staves remained intact, and Harvey was struck by an end piece of very thick wood which broke his arm, whilst the lit fumes burnt one side of his face.

The noise of the explosion carried for some distance and a horse in a stable was so badly frightened by it that it knocked over its groom.

The cask must have held a very large amount of gas.

1838 –  Sudden Death at Holmer

This is perhaps how we all might wish end our time on earth.

James Archibald of Holmer had been ill for many weeks, but then seemed to turn the corner.  He went out riding with his son and told his wife that he felt better than he had for a long time.

During the afternoon he enjoyed a walk in the garden, then returned to the house.  On sitting down he immediately died.

1855 – Mrs Hill of Holmer Loved Legal Proceedings!

It would seem that Mrs. Hill of Holmer was forever bringing cases to court, and would have been deemed a nuisance if they didn’t find it so funny.

She usually went to the City Magistrates Court with her cases, but in August 1855 she  appeared before their Worships at the Shirehall, prompting the observation in the press that she was “perhaps thinking that she would be unjust in favouring the City Magistrates so frequently with the light of her countenance, without honouring the county gentlemen with an occasional visit.”

This time, she wanted the Bench to bring proceedings against the landlord of the New Inn for letting her husband drink there, when to her mind he should be at home with his family.

The Magistrates were patient “proof that they are blessed with considerable powers of endurance”,  and sighing, told the landlord that he should send for the police if Mr. Hill refused to go home when asked.

1859 – Child Dies after Supposedly getting Drunk on Cider

Nine year old Alfred Thomas, son of John Thomas a Labourer, had always enjoyed good health.

One evening his father came home from work and found Alfred in a chair by the fire – he was seemingly drunk, and covered in cow muck.  A neighbour, William Knill had brought him home after finding him lying by the path covered in vomit and insensible.

Alfred’s parents washed him, during which time he was sick and his father said that he thought that it was cider;  Alfred perked up a bit after this but refused food and went to bed.

Alfred and his parents slept in the same room, and in the early hours of the morning they heard him groan – then he appeared to have a fit.   He went on to have four fits an hour until his father went to work at 4.30.

Later the Mr. Lane the surgeon was called as Alfred got no better, but the medicine he prescribed made no difference and in fact it became increasingly more difficult to get him to open his mouth;   despite desperate requests by Alfred’s father, Mr. Lane did not attend the child again and a few days later Alfred died having had an endless succession of increasingly violent fits.

At the inquest the lad’s movements throughout the day were studied and at no point was there any suggestion that he had drunk too much cider.

The Verdict

Alfred Thomas died from a succession of epileptic fits.  The jury said that Mr. Lane had said that he had a message leading him to believe that Alfred was better, but that the message had actually come from another parish.  They considered that Mr. Lane was very much to blame for not keeping at his surgery a servant sufficiently intelligent to give him correct messages from his patients.

1861 – Attacked by a Bull at Holmer

A bull belonging to Charles Bulmer of Holmer attacked a group of men, and Benjamin Davies was so badly injured that he died in the infirmary two weeks later.

1862 – Two Babies Found in Pond at Holmer

Mary Ann Green, wife of John Green a labourer of Holmer,  was walking along a footpath on the farm of J. Walker Esq. at Holmer, when she passed a horse pond and stopped to watch some ducks.

She noticed something else in the water and shouted to a nearby man to ask what he thought it was – he said that he had just chucked some horse entrails in (lovely!) and thought that that was what she had seen, however she insisted that she thought it looked like a child.

Both of them went to investigate, and did indeed find not one child, but two.  They immediately alerted the police, and Sergeant Cope of the County Constabulary rushed to the scene and ordered the tiny bodies to be taken to the nearby New Inn.

It was supposed that the babies had been in the water for roughly 9 days, and they were full term.

A woman was arrested, but after a medical examination proved her innocence she was set free.  Then an aunt and niece were taken into custody – Sarah Goode, a respectable middle aged woman, and Elizabeth Goode, a pretty and ladylike woman of 21.

The trial was somewhat inconclusive, although from witness statements it seemed glaringly obvious that Elizabeth Goode had been pregnant – and then wasn’t!  However, because the post mortem could not prove whether the children were born alive, the inquiry had to be stopped with a verdict of “Found dead in a pool, but whether they were alive or dead when placed there, there is no evidence to show”

Superintendent Wilson was not happy, and intended to investigate the case further so the prisoners were taken to Hereford.  I have yet to discover the outcome.

1878 – Herefordshire Manure Company at Holmer

I bet the locals had to keep their windows shut around this place!

The Herefordshire Manure company Limited, Holmer – Thomas Landon Managing director;  James Hain, Secretary.

Advertising pure bones of various sizes;  bone dust;  dissolved bones;  bone superphosphate etc. etc.

1891 – Holmer School struck by Lightning

During the course of a massive thunderstorm, Holmer school was struck by lightning on the apex of the roof over the west wing.  The lightning tracked down and smashed the top of the large west window, splintering the frame on the inside.

By sheer luck, a girls’ sewing class had not yet begun, as they usually sat on a raised platform just below the window……they could have been seriously injured.

1789 – Theft from Parish Church

The parish church of Hope under Dinmore was broken into by way of one of the windows, and the communion plate was stolen.

This was the second theft from a church in the area within a week.

1792 – Death of Anne Cave at Hope Under Dinmore

Mrs Anne Cave, wife of Edward Cave, late of Buckland, died at Hope Under Dinmore “after a long and painful illness which she bore with the greatest fortitude and resignation”.

1842 – Smallpox at Hope Under Dinmore

In October at Hope Under Dinmore, Sarah Watkins aged 72 died of Smallpox.

In the same week, Charles, son of John and Martha Lane died aged just 5, and Mrs. Ann Meredith aged 76 died after suffering a long and painful illness.

1845 – Wilful Damage of Apple Trees Earns a Whipping

Late at night, Robert Lane aged 16 entered an orchard belonging to John Arkwright at Hope Under Dinmore, and broke down some trees.

He was caught in the act and was found guilty at court, where he was sentenced to six months imprisonment an an immediate whipping.

1849 – Horses have their Manes and Tails Cut Off

Some nasty ne’er do well went into the stables of Mr. Carpenter of Hope Under Dinmore and cut off the manes and tails of four of his horses.

It was stressed that one of the horses was a grey, although why this should make a difference I don’t know.

P.C. Ball was on the case, and he searched the bag of a travelling man in Hereford, but had no luck in finding anything.

1851 – Fatal Accident at Railway Works on Dinmore Hill

In May 1851 a number of men were working in the cuttings when there was a sudden landslide of rock and earth which completely engulfed three men. Rescue attempts were immediate, but when the debris had been cleared away it was discovered that two of the men were dead.  The third had a miraculous escape due to the fact that he was next to a wheelbarrow, which shielded him and gave him enough air to survive, although he did have serious injuries.

Mr. Fieldhouse who was in charge of the workings, was severely reprimanded by the Coroner for not taking any precautions, such as shoring up the sides of the cutting, in order to protect the men.

The two unfortunate dead men were William Allen and Joseph Chance and the jury at the inquest returned a verdict of accidental death, but also said that great blame was attributable to Francis Fieldhouse the contractor for not protecting his workmen from danger.

1859 – Best Cottagers’ Gardens

In early October, the Leominster Agricultural Association held their annual meeting, which encompassed livestock;  labourers with the greatest number of children;  servants who had served the longest etc. etc.

The category for the best Cottagers’ Gardens was won by William Norman of Dinmore Hill in Hope Under Dinmore

1860 – Did Lovers’ Tiff leads to Suicide?

William Fletcher was a 21 year old man who  worked as a brakesman on the Shrewsbury and Hereford Railway line,  and who lived with his mother Sophia Jenkins (she had remarried) at Hope Under Dinmore.

Shortly before Christmas one night in 1860, William was down by the line, and a witness tried to talk to him but couldn’t hear his reply because of the noise of moving trucks.  The next thing she saw was William taking his cap off then kneeling down and putting his head on the rails just before the goods train ran over him.  Her screams alerted railway workers and the train was halted but it was too late and William was dead.

William was said to have normally been an even tempered and happy chap, but he had begun to seem a little miserable, and rumours were rife about an argument he had had  with his girlfriend, Eliza Rogers,  who worked at the Grapes Tavern in Hereford as a domestic servant.  However, she flatly denied at the inquest that there had been any row.

In the absence of any reason for William’s unhappiness, and by the statements made that he had deliberately placed his head on the rails and not just fallen over, the jury had no choice but to return a verdict of suicide whilst in a state of temporary insanity.

1867 – Heavy Snow and rain Causes Flooding

Melting snow and torrential rain caused devastating floods in Herefordshire in March 1867, and in Hope Under Dinmore water poured off the Dinmore and Winsley hills.

The village was flooded and Mr. Poulton’s grocery shop was under water so that he and his wife were forced to retreat upstairs where they stayed for some time until the water subsided.

The force of the water was such that a huge hole was opened up in the road, and it took seven cart loads of brick bats to fill it in.

1867 – Woman steals Bread and Bacon

Rebecca Folley aged 54 broke into the house of William Barber at Hope Under Dinmore on 19th February 1867 and stole a piece of bacon and two loaves of bread.

In court she said that she was so poor that she had to do it;  she had been caught stealing some eleven years previously, but the court was lenient in that they “only” gave her 12 months imprisonment with hard labour.  They said that she had one more chance to reform her conduct……presumably next time she would face deportation.

1833 – Horrible Death in Threshing Machine

Joseph Taylor was working for Mr. Gwillim of How Caple, and was attending a threshing machine when his smock frock became caught in the workings, and he was “wheeled around with terrific violence”.

The machine was immediately stopped, and Joseph was disentangled and taken home where examination resulted in him being taken to the Infirmary.  The doctors there realised that his left arm was so badly damaged that it would have to be amputated if he was to survive, and the operation was duly carried out.

Unfortunately, he had lost so much blood that he died immediately after the operation.

1846 – Devastating Fire at How Caple

At the beginning of February 1846, a fire broke out at Rugdon, an old thatched farm house which was lived in by two poor widows.

The nearest fire engine was some distance, and before help could arrive the whole house was destroyed along with all the widows’ furniture and possessions.  Some of the out buildings were burnt down too and one of the widows was badly hurt.

The reporter for the Hereford Journal was clearly upset by the incident, and said that he hoped the honest and hard working women would receive help from the neighbours, especially the “influential” ones (presumably he was thinking of How Caple Court amongst others), and that maybe a subscription would be opened on their behalf.

1846 – Drowned whilst Drunk

On 9th April 1846, John Powell of How Caple had been drinking heavily with friends before he boarded a barge on the River Wye.  He fell overboard at Hoarwithy, but his body was not found until 23rd April.

The verdict was accidentally drowned.

1856 – Death of a Child at How Caple

Eliza Oakley, a mother of seven children, went out “leasing” taking her 8 month old baby with her.

The baby had always been rather sickly, but for some reason Eliza had never sought medical aid.

On the day in question, Eliza carried the child around for a while and then put it on the floor whilst she went on with her leasing…..half an hour later the baby was dead.

An inquest was held and the jury returned an open verdict.

1861 – Children Deserted

Ann Meredith of How Caple took her two children to the Ross Union Workhouse and left them there whilst she went to live with “a man who was not her husband”.

At Court she was told that she should have stayed in the Workhouse with her children, or taken them out and received help from the Board where appropriate.  She was also told that she had acted very disgracefully and she was sent to Hereford Gaol for one month.

1899 – The How Caple Brook Law Suit

Lovibond v Foster

The Rev Frederic Hamilton Lovibond, Rector of How Caple brought a case against Arthur Wellesley Foster of Brockhampton Court.

It was alleged that Arthur Foster, or members of his family, had diverted water from an old stream so that it fed the mill race of his mill.  It was claimed that he had possibly raised the weir, or used other means which deprived those downstream of the valuable source of irrigation and water for livestock.

Arthur Foster had bought his mill in 1896  and he said that the tenant, Mr. W. Mayo had altered the weir, and had also filled in a hole which was there to allow water to flow into the brook during dry weather.

In summing up, the Judge said that nobody could deprive the brook of water by diverting it to the mill, and although the miller had a right to take a certain amount of water the question was whether this right had been taken too far by alterations to the weir.

The jury found in favour of the Rev. Frederic Lovibond.

1885 – Humber National School

The school was said to have done extremely well – Her Majesty’s Inspector said that 92% of the children passed their standard.

The Excellent Merit grant was obtained and the full grant for class subjects was awarded.

The results very much reflect the efforts of the new Master, Mr. T.S. Annandale, as well as his predecessor Mr. F.H. Erye who left at Easter

1896 – Sons Accused of Assaulting Father at Humber

John and George Parry, labourers of Humber, aged 23 and 18,  were charged with assaulting and beating  their father George Parry.

George Parry had gone into Leominster in order to take out a summons against his sons, and on returning home ordered them out of the house saying that he had the backing of the police.  They refused to go, and pushed him out then locked the door.

George went round to the back door, but that too was locked so he set off to go to the police;  suddenly a gun went off behind him and he saw that his youngest son was holding the gun and assumed that he had fired at him, but he knew that here was no shot in it, only powder.

A neighbour stated that she heard the commotion and saw an axe outside the door and the two boys were at the window……she said that George Parry asked her to go and find a policeman, but the son George said that if she did he would put out her bloody lights, and his father’s.  After that she heard the gunshot.

It seems that the boys had been increasingly difficult since the loss of their mother, and although George Parry had tried to be both father and mother, they were aggressive and difficult to live with – hence the summons to order them out of the house.

At the hearing, father George was a rather unwilling witness despite being in “bodily fear”.  The Bench considered that the charge of assault was proved against both boys, and said that the charge of firing a gun at their father was serious – and that it was lucky that it wasn’t loaded.

The sentence in the end was lenient, just 14 days hard labour.

1817 – Famous Last Words

George Yeomans was working in a gravel pit at Ivington when several men warned him that the sides had become unstable.

George’s reply was that he was not frightened of shadows – just before the earth fell on him and killed him.

1838 – Death of Pugilist

James Bibb died after a boxing contest and initially it was thought that injuries received during the fight were to blame.

The subsequent investigation decided that he had died from Erysipelas, which rather sounds like a cover up!   That might be slightly unfair, because death from the condition was perfectly possible.

1843 – New Chapel of Ease is Consecrated at Ivington

The ceremony of consecration of St. John’s Episcopal Chapel was carried out by the Lord Bishop of the Diocese, some twelve months after the foundation stone was laid by Mrs. Arkwright of Hampton Court.

The building was described as having a pleasing appearance, but there was much criticism.  For example “in the campanile neither beauty nor ornament has been considered – the iron casements are ill suited to the building and the unseemly plinths of the buttresses offend the eye”.

The interior didn’t get much praise either, although one correspondent did say that “it was one of the neatest structures he ever saw, without any unnecessary display”

1846 – The Queen v the Rev. Josiah Bartlett

Josiah Bartlett, curate of Ivington was accused of scandalous libel on his sister in law, Mrs. Tozer.

The Attorney General applied for a rule to show cause why a criminal information should not be filed against the Rev. Josiah Bartlett, and told of a long history of domestic troubles relating to Mr. Bartlett, who had been married for about 14 years and had six children.

Apparently, Mr. Bartlett wrote to his wife at Broadward where they lived,  telling him that he wanted a separation, citing insolence from her family and her preference to their company rather than his.

He offered to pay for her trip to London to live with her relatives, as long as he could keep the children with the exception of Amelia and Emily, which she could have if she wanted!

After receiving this letter, Mrs. Bartlett asked her sister, Mrs Tozer to come to Broadward, which she duly did along with her brother Mr. Boult in the place of her husband who was away on business.  When Mr. Bartlett turned up, there were some heated arguments and he looked as if he was about to hit Mrs. Tozer – shortly afterwards, Mrs Tozer and her brother went to stay in the Lion Hotel in Leominster.

Mr. Bartlett sent letter after letter to Mrs. Tozer, and eventually the content became so awful that she showed them to her husband who initiated the court proceedings.  One of the worst letters intimated that Mrs. Tozer was not a virgin when she married, and that she had attempted on one occasion to seduce himself, and in effect he blackmailed her by threatening to expose her to her husband if she didn’t stop interfering in his domestic affairs.

The Attorney General said that Mrs. Tozer denied on oath that any of it was true, but she had admitted that Mr. Bartlett had indecently propositioned her after his own marriage, and that she had of course rejected him.

The Attorney General prayed that a rule to show cause might be granted.  Mr. Justice Williams, on behalf of the court, immediately agreed.

1847 – The Rev. Josiah Bartlett Continued

Following on from the previous article, in February 1847 the Lord Bishop of Hereford served the Rev. Josiah Bartlett of Ivington with a warning about his future, and he replied as follows, clearly trying to ignore the seriousness of the sentence of the Court of the Queen’s Bench:

“To the Right Reverend Thomas, by Divine Permission Lord Bishop of Hereford.

I, Josiah Bartlett, clerk, incumbent of the district church of Saint John at Ivington, in the county and diocese of Hereford, having received your lordship’s monition requiring me to reside on my benefice aforesaid, do hereby in reply or return to such monition make answer, and say that there is no house of residence belonging thereto.

And I further say as advised that I have a legal cause of exemption from residence by reason of my forcible detention by order of the Honorable Judges of the Court of the Queen’s Bench, who, acting on evidence falsely given and from divers other causes, have been misled in their intention impartially to administer the law, and I hereby certify and affirm that it is my intention to appeal to the superior courts against the judgement which has been pronounced……”

He went on to say that he had no intention of doing anything about the monition, and wrote a veiled threat about his actions should the order be enforced.  He also complained bitterly of four “strangers” who caused a report to be circulated in the local paper regarding his suspension.

1851 – Marriage of Rev. G.H. Kirwood of Ivington

On 2nd July 1851, the Rev. G.H. Kirwood married Miss Colt and more than five hundred people gathered in a field next to the school room to celebrate the occasion.

Children were given tea and plum cake, whilst the invited adults had a feast under the special marquee.  Food finished with, it was wonderful to see that all class distinction was forgotten with everyone enjoying the entertainment laid on by Mrs. G. Woodhouse.

1853 – The Herefordshire Agricultural Society Show

Unfortunately, the weather for this event was dreadful with unrelenting heavy rain falling for the whole day.  The entry was the smallest seen for many years.

However, Mr. Roberts of Ivington won the £10 prize in the best bull, cow and offspring class.  His bull “King James” was already a prizewinner in other shows, but on this occasion there were only two other competitors.

1854 – Gratitude of Fire Victim at Ivington

Josiah Davis had the misfortune to have fire break out on his property at Chip’s House, Ivington, and were it not for the prompt and willing help he received from friends and neighbours in putting out the fire, he would have lost everything.

on 13th March 1854, Josiah put a notice in the Hereford Journal, publicly thanking everyone for their assistance, and also sending warm thanks to the neighbours who offered to take him in after the fire.

1861 – Old Delinquent Thumps Policeman

On 5th July 1861 Edward Parry, described as an “old delinquent” was charged with assaulting P.C. George Davies at Ivington.

He pleaded guilty, and as it was his second offence he was fined £3 plus costs, which he paid.

1862 – St. John’s Schoolchildren have a lovely Day

The Rev. J. Price Jones, incumbent of Ivington, provided cakes and tea for the children in the schoolroom, which was bedecked with greenery and banners.

Many prices were given out by Mrs. Guise of Ryeland, after which the children sang songs and then went outside to play different sports until 8 p.m. when they made their way home.

1863 – Accusation of Theft at Brothel

Samuel Price – described in the paper as a “silly looking young countryman”, was a labourer living at Ivington.  He attended a house of ill repute with a friend one night and when he left to go drinking in the Three Crowns he discovered that £3 15s was missing from his purse.

Samuel accused Emma Cowmeadow aged 27 whom he had been with at the house, of taking the money, but in court she denied all knowledge of him.  No money was found at the house nor on Emma’s person, but two other girls in the house at the time had disappeared.

Emma was acquited as there was no evidence, and immediately several people started clapping…….they were immediately silenced!!

1866 – An Unorthodox Cure for Cattle Plague

Mr. Vevers of Ivington had been suffering terrible losses in his herd due to rinderpest, but one cow had managed to resist all attempts to give treatment and strangely, recovered totally without any medicine of any kind.

Elsewhere, a farmer offered to cure a cow belonging to a neighbour using his own rather odd methods.  In the middle of the night, he went into the field where the sick animal was, and stripped naked.  He performed some sort of a ritual whilst administering a ancient herbal remedy, and repeated the performance over several nights.  Incredibly, the cow recovered and the farmer was asked to see if he could cure another one on a different farm; this one too was soon restored to full health.

Efforts were being made to discover the secrets of his cattle plague cure!

1899 – Ivingtonbury Farm Destroyed by Fire

Ivingtonbury Farm at Ivington was one of the largest homesteads in the county of Herefordshire and was jointly occupied by Messrs Henry Andrews and Notley, although owned by Messrs Wood and Glossop.

In mid July 1899, Mr. and Mrs. Notley had just sat down to dinner with Andrews, having returned from Leominster earlier, when Mr. Andrews became aware of the fire.   He jumped on his bicycle and raced to Leominster where he arrived at the fire bell just before 2 p.m.

Superintendant Price of Leominster made all haste to the fire, followed quickly by the Brigade.  They were too late – nearly every building on the homestead was in flames, the fire being fanned by a strong easterly wind;  fortunately the cattle and horses in one building had been safely removed early in the proceedings, although one pedigree bull calf perished,  and the house itself was just badly scorched.

Losses included Cattle stalls;  chaff houses;  French barns;  the waggon house;  water wheel house;  large stock of implements;  feedstuff;  100 tons of straw;  stack of clover and all of the hay harvest.  It was said to be the biggest farm fire in living memory in Herefordshire.

The intense heat of the fire made passage along the road in front of the buildings impossible for some time.  The origin was eventually tracked down to a plumber, Mr. J. Edwards of Leominster, who was repairing a lead gutter on the wainhouse right next to the barn filled with straw.  He had been using a lamp to solder a patch in the gutter, and it was thought that the metal became so hot that it ignited the dry straw.

1840 – Roman Excavations at Kenchester

The Very Ref the Dean wrote to the British Museum regarding exciting archaeological finds at Kentchurch, and a site which locals knew as Magna Castra.

The reply came back from Sir Henry Ellis dated 26th October 1840, and he expressed great delight in the interest that Kenchester was taking in the excavations, which he said formed one of the “richest fields that we know of, now remaining, for the investigation of the Anglo-Roman antiquary”.

He called into question the name Magna Castra and said that Gough in Camden’s Britannica called the site Ariconium, but went on to say that Roman remains were discovered above ground during the reign of Henry the Eighth.  (In actual fact, this site WAS Magna Castra and Ariconium was down the road towards Ross).

He expressed concern, and urged caution, regarding the uncovering of portions of three tesselated pavements recalling “at North Leigh in Oxfordshire, the rustics picked so much at a fine pavement that was uncovered, that if the investigators had not shedded it and locked the door, scarce a morsel in a short time would have remained of the discovery”.

He suggested that an architect or surveyor would be the best choice for overseeing the work, and recommended Mr. Adams, Mr. Henry Lawson’s young friend, from Hereford.

Sir Henry was sorry, but there was no grant to help with the work but he said that they would love to hear what was found and would lay the results before the Society of Antiquaries.

The Roman Invasion of Kenchurch and Herefordshire

In 1861 James Davies of Hereford gave a lecture on the Roman invasion.

Ostorius Scapula and Caractacus

He told how Ostorius Scapula, appointed by the Emperor Claudius to finalise the take over of Britain,  fought with Caractacus the leader of the Silures, a brave people.  It was hardly dramatic fighting, because Ostorius failed to lure Caractacus into the open – clever Caractacus realised that his troops had no chance of winning such combat with the well trained Romans, and he kept to the high ground.

The Britons had few worthwhile weapons and even less armoury and had been easily defeated in previous battles fought in the open, and Caractacus placed garrisons on the Rivers Severn and Avon.

The final result of the battles such as were fought is hazy, and some doubt was cast on the writings of the Roman historian Tacitus, especially as he had never even set foot in Britain.

Tacitus wrote:

“Ostorius set out against the Silures, who, besides their natural fierceness, were relying on the vigour of Caractacus, whose many doubtful, many successful, issues in battle had raised him above the other general of the Britons.  But he having the advantage, as well by craft as his knowledge of the treacherous nature of the country, though his force was smaller, led the war into the territory of the Ordovices, and those having joined him who were fearful of the consequences of a peace with the Romans, he resolved to try his last chance, having too fixed on such a spot for the battle that the approach and retreat in all respects unfavourable to the Romans might be more easy to his own men.”

He went on to say that Caractacus built a rampart of stone high on the hill above the river and stationed his best men behind it.  Ostorius was surprised by the preparations and realised that his men would be at a distinct disadvantage, but his men were eager to fight so he led them over the river and they managed to climb to the rampart.   Initially, Ostorius and his men got the worst of it with many killed or wounded, but then he ordered them to form a tortoise by putting their shields over their heads, and before too long they had stormed the rampart and were able to fight hand to hand.

The Britons retreated up the hill, but were easily pursued and as none of them had breastplates or helmets they were struck down at will by the swords and darts of the Romans.

With victory assured, the daughters of Caractacus were captured, and his brothers surrendered.

Defeat of the Silures

Caractacus himself fled to Pengwer-wyn in Denbighshire, but was later betrayed and given to the Romans which resulted in cessation of war for a while, but the Silures rallied again  they went back to keeping the Romans on their toes, and their constant niggling wore Ostorius down to such an extent that he died.  However, the Romans eventually proved too strong and they established Ariconium near Ross;  Magna Castra at Kenchester, Bravinium at Leintwardine and Circutio at Stretton Grandison, with roads or portways connecting each to another.

In the 5th century the Romans finally left the country and the Silures were the first to regain their territory, and they joined forces with other Britons under Uther Pendragon and Arthur to once again show their bravery when defending against the Saxon invasion, which proved futile in the end.

The ancient Britons were driven back to the Welsh mountains, and the boundary of the River Severn was violated;  Offa’s Dyke marked the edge of the Mercian dominions to the west and most of Herefordshire was included in the limits.

1840 – Child Burnt at Kenchester

Seven year old John Whiting was left home alone by his parents, and strayed too close to the fire.

His clothes burst into flames, and although when discovered he was rushed to Hereford Infirmary, he died the following day.

1842 – Skeleton found at Kenchester

A human skeleton, doubled over, was found just a foot down in the ground at Kenchester.

However, given that the remains were discovered very near to the Rectory, nobody dare suggest that it could possibly due to a murder, and the safer option was to assume that it was from the time of Roman occupation – despite the fact that the remains looked far too fresh!

1843 – Kenchester Teetotal Society

The Kenchester teetotalers held their first tea meeting on a fine day in an orchard belonging to Mr. Pearce.

Close to 200 people attended, many from Hereford, and they congratulated themselves on the general good feeling amongst them which reinforced their belief that total abstinence was the way to go.

Once tea was over the meeting commenced in earnest, with several speakers pontificating on the merits of giving up drink.  They said that it was a “cure for the drunkard” (well, yes!) and a “safe preventive for the so called moderate man.”

At 8 in the evening the meeting broke up, with everyone seemingly “more than ever in love with the cause of total abstinence”.

Several people signed the pledge.

1862 – The Railway comes to Kenchester

The first engine of the Hereford, Hay and Brecon Railway ran as far as Kenchester during mid July of 1862, and the Rev. James Staples, minister of the chapel, gave the engine driver, George Dowdeswell, a small pocket bible.

1867 – More on the Roman Excavations at Kenchester

At the Cambrian Archaeological Association meeting in Hereford, the Kenchester excavations were discussed and it was said that traces of the site of a Roman villa had been found by Archdeacon Freer, who also found the tesselated pavement.

It had been decided that the villa had been built for a Roman gentleman, with lovely views to the East and West.

Many wonderful and interesting artefacts had been discovered around the site over the years, including a Roman ring found by Mr. Whitfield; a figure of a horse’s head presumed to be the handle of a knife;  a tiny stilus for writing on wax tablets and  bone ornaments and pins.

Also found was an almost perfect coin of Julia Maesa, the grandmother of Heliogabalus, which was dated at around 1600 years old.  It was considered remarkable that the hairstyle shown on the coin was almost indentical to that of the mid 19th century.

1867 – Death of 12 year old Wagon Driver

I find it hard to have sympathy – although the thought of a 12 year old in charge of two horses and a laden wagon is pretty frightening, even for those days.

James William Nicholas aged 12 died at the Weir, Kenchester, on 11th September when he was working for Mr. Jowitt of the Weir.

At the inquest,  Mr. Jowitt confirmed that James had been driving two horses with a wagon load of barley, having being doing this work since the beginning of the harvest season, but that he had had to have stern words with James for ill treating and hitting the horses.

On the day of the accident, a witness saw him grab hold of the head of the lead horse in the shafts with one hand, and then strike it several times with a whip held in his other hand.  The horses broke into a gallop and the lad fell to the ground where the wheels of the wagon went over his body. Although he was quickly taken to the Infirmary he died soon afterwards, which is not surprising considering his chest was crushed.

1899 – Annual Kenchester Concert

The evening concert took place in the lecture hall of the Lady Southampton’s Chapel on 29th December, and was a huge success despite the dreadful weather.

The packed audience thoroughly enjoyed the music, which began with The Tonic Solfa Class giving a rendering of The Fairies, conducted by Miss Hughes.

There was a piano solo by Miss L. Hancorn, and a rendition of Lead Kindly Light by Mr. Apperley, a former member of Kenchester Chapel choir.  He sang again later in the evening, to enthusiastic applause.

Master Simpson of Hereford played the mandolin, which was a first for the concert, and Dr. A.B. Hughes sang Ben-ma-chree.

Many more solos were performed throughout the evening, and most of it was very well received.

1807 – The Death of Rev. Gilbert of Kentchurch

At the end of October 1807, the 45 year old Rev. Gilbert went to the Goitree, Monmouthshire for a day of cock shooting with some friends.

He was walking a little way ahead, down the side of a wood, when the gun belonging to one of his friends accidently went off, with the charge hitting him in the head and removing one ear.

The friends were indescribably upset, and rushed him to a farm house where he “lingered”  for three days with the utmost resignation and forgiveness of the friend who shot him, before dying.

He was buried at Kentchester.

1835 – The Rev. William Bowen of Kentchurch

The Lord Bishop of Hereford revoked the Rev. William Bowen’s license as Curate of Kentchurch after he performed a supposedly clandestine marriage between Miss Merewether, sister of the Dean of Hereford, and Mr. Wesley, Organist at Hereford Cathedral.  The ceremony was performed at Ewyas Harold were the Rev Bowen was vicar and officiating minister.

However, the Archbishop of Canterbury annulled this revocation, much to the delight of the Rev’s parishioners who thought very highly of him.

1838 – Tragic Drowning at Kentchurch

Phillip Lewis, just 9 years old, was working for Mr. Jones of Court a Grove Farm, Kentchurch, and was sent to Ewyas Harrold on an errand.

He didn’t return by nightfall, and the next day his body was found in a deep rivulet near Kentchurch.

1841 – Transportation for Stealing Rabbits

James Hoskins of Garway parish was found guilty of stealing tame rabbits from Kentchurch Court.

Just a few months early he had been in the County Gaol for housebreaking, and perhaps this was taken into account when the terrible sentence of seven years’ transportation was declared at the Quarter Sessions for Monmouthshire.

1844 – Quarterly Tables of Mortality in Kentchurch

In June it was reported that Measles was rife in the area, although so far only one death had occurred from the disease.

1848 – A Game of “Bandy” Causes Trouble for the Kentchurch Mail.

Bandy is a game played on ice with a curved stick and a ball as opposed to a puck.  In this instance it would seem to be more likely that the game was just being played in the road.

Thomas Jones, driver of the Kentchurch mail, was on his way into Hereford when he came across several lads playing bandy at Blackmarstone.  Thomas called out to them, asking if they could stop the game until he had passed, but they ignored him and continued playing.

Unfortunately, a piece of the wooden ball that they were hitting flew off and hit one of the horses which made it panic, and the resulting plunging and kicking destroyed the harness.  Horse and mail cart were stabled, and Thomas carried on with his letters to the post office on foot.

The problem caused by boys playing bandy in the city and suburbs was becoming worse, and calls were being made for the police to put a stop to the nuisance.

1852 – Railway Accident at Kentchurch

William Jones aged 24 of Abingdon, Surrey, had been working on the Newport, Abergavenny and Hereford Railway at Kentchurch for a month along with his friends.

They were engaged in building an embankment, and William’s job was to drive the wagons full of soil to the end of the embankment;  one wheel of the wagon was always “spragged”, which mean being tied with a stick, when going down a slope and William was trying to do this when he somehow got caught up between the stick and the wagon and was thrown to the floor.  The wheels went over his legs, breaking them badly, and he died of blood loss two hours later.

1853 – Man dies in Kentchurch Cess Pool

William Barratt was a railway worker who was at the time out of work, and he came to Kentchurch to meet with a friend, John Letts, with whom he had worked on the Great Northern Railway.

Although William was not really a drinking man, he went with his friend to the Bridge Inn where they stayed until late, and at one point William had a fight with a chap named King.   John Letts went home finally, and assumed that William would follow afterwards.

When the landlord, Mr. Powell went outside, he was horrified to see the face of a man on the top of the cess pool, and yelling for help, he managed to remove the man who turned out to be William Barratt, but he was quite dead.

There was a great deal of puzzlement as to how William actually ended up where he did – the only opening to the drain where the body was found was a tiny space between two privies, which was protected by a hurdle.  Above this hurdle, and between the top of it and the roof, was a small hole just big enough for a man to pass through, and through which William must somehow have gone.

If foul play was not the cause, then it was thought that the poor chap thought that the privy was an outhouse and climbed over the hurdle searching for somewhere to sleep.

1857 – Officer of the Inland Revenue Rides to his Death

In February 1857, Sydney Heming, an Officer of the Inland Revenue, went to the Pontrilas Inn for a quick drink and left at around 8.30 p.m, quite sober by all accounts.

A farmer rode with him for a short way, but complained that Sydney was riding much too fast on such a frosty night and dropped back whilst Sydney cantered on.

Not long afterwards, he was find lying in the road with his horse standing nearby;  he was immediately taken to the Bridge Inn where he was eventually examined by Mr. Lane the surgeon from Grosmont…….Sydney was quite dead.

1861 – Streaker in Kentchurch

Charles Sullis was arrested on a charge of “obscenely exposing his person” by running naked along the road in Kentchurch for a bet on 18th June.

Luckily for Charles, the witnesses could not be completely sure of his identity, due to the speed with which he ran and the fact that he had no clothes on!

He was duly discharged.

1862 – Col. Scudamore’s Gamekeeper has Serious Accident

On New Year’s Day, Col. Scudamore’s gamekeeper was walking alongside a laden wagon when the horses bolted.  The poor man was knocked over and the wheels of the wagon went over him, breaking his thigh and lower leg, as well as one of his arms.

He was taken to Hereford infirmary where he was said to be doing as well as could be expected.

One of the most common accidents in Herefordshire in the 19th century was just this sort of thing, and frequently the outcome was death as this report illustrates:

Thomas Hanbury who was employed by Co. Scudamore of Kentchurch Court, was on his way  back from Pontrilas station where he and another labourer had  collected some furniture.

He tripped and fell, and the wagon went straight over him.  He was taken to Hereford Infirmary but died shortly afterwards.

1786 – Executed for Arson at Kilpeck

Susannah Minton, a 17 year old girl who was born and lived in Kilpeck was described as being simple, and worked as a servant at the house of Paul Gwatkin.

Susannah had watched her mistress Anne Gwatkin  “exhibit some articles of finery”, (namely some handkerchiefs, caps and other such things) and she was overcome with a desire to own some of them;  to this end, she decided to create a diversion by setting fire to a barn close to the house in the hope that everyone would rush to the fire leaving her way clear to steal things.

The ruse worked and she managed to take the box containing the finery, but the fire destroyed a great deal of barley, oats, feed clover and hay.

She was executed on 16th September 1786.

1789 – Greenway Brook Claims a Life

In May 1789, William Marsh described as a “poor old man”, was found drowned at Kilpeck in the shallow Greenway Brook.

He had apparently been drunk the night before, and it was assumed that he tumbled into the brook and was too inebriated to climb out.

1820 – Pigeons Win Shooting Match at Kilpeck

Two men laid enormous bets on who could shoot the most out of six pigeons each – the umpire confirmed that the men were of equal capabilites and so it proved in a hilarious manner.

The first competitor managed to miss all six of his birds, and the other was supremely confident that he would be the winner.  However, his aim was similarly abysmal and the result was a total of twelve free pigeons and two embarrassed men!

1828 – Improved Threshing Machine

Peter Watkins, a Millwright, greatly improved the performance of the humble but essential threshing machine, and the result could be seen in full working order at Kilpeck.

Old machines needed five horses to operate them, whereas this one worked happily with only three.  Also safety measures had been incorporated, which involved a spring wheel in the horse wheel, so that if the horses suddenly stopped the machine would gradually come to a halt which limited the danger to the horses.

The workings of the new threshing machine were incredibly simple, so that if something should go wrong it would be the work of a moment to repair it.

1853 – Railway Accident

Mary Davies, a 63 year old woman from Kilpeck, was walking along the railway lines on her way to Hereford market.

She negotiated the Haywood tunnel then heard the approach of wagons behind her;  she had been told previously to step outside the tracks in this event, but she panicked and turned the wrong way so that she was knocked over.  Unfortunately one foot lay across the rail, and the wagons went over it.

Some railway workers carried her three miles to the Infirmary where her foot was amputated, but at least she survived.

1855 – Schooling Improved in Kilpeck Area

There was a very marked improvement in the state of education in the area;  not long before this time, there was no accessible school near Kilpeck and the best that children could hope for by way of education was an assembly in a village cottage to receive rudimentary schooling.

By 1855, no child was more than two miles from a school, although the learning was still not brilliant.

1858 – Annual Picnic at the Red Lion Inn

Mr. Johnson was lucky with the weather this year, and a great many people attended his annual picnic.

People came from far and wide, and were rewarded with a splendid evening of entertainment including a visit to the old Norman church and the ruins of the castle.

A big marquee had been erected in front of the Red Lion, where a sumptious feast was laid out;  following tea, there was dancing until dark when people went indoors to continue to enjoy themselves.

1833 – Horse Stealing

Edward Lewis and William Jones were found guilty of the theft of a horse from Mr. Griffiths at Winifred Hill, Kimbolton.

Mr. Griffiths noticed that his brown gelding had gone on 3rd March, but tracked it down to Allbrighton Fair, where Edward Lewis had every intention of selling it.

At the trial, William Jones was given excellent character references, and his part in the theft was negligible as it turned out, but the Judge said that his hands were tied and he was unable to show leniency.

Both men were sentenced to transportation for life.

1841 – Sad Drowning of Little Girl at Kimbolton

Louisa Yates, a six year old who was unable to speak, was playing near a small but deep pool next to her house.  She was seen by a neighbour at dusk.

Shortly afterwards, the mother noticed that Louisa was missing, and the resulting search found her in the pool.

She was carried into the house, but was found to be dead.

1842 – Theft of Wheat at Kimbolton

Joseph Hall stole some wheat from Aaron Jain in Kimbolton – he was caught, charged, and sentenced to seven years’ transportation.

1842 – Theft of One Linen Shirt

John Langford stole a linen shirt from George Bray of Kimbolton, and was sentenced on conviction to twelve months’ hard labour.

1855 – Pensioner Tries to Run Away from Wife

Thomas Blakeway, a gentleman of advanced years, was charged with running away from his wife in Kimbolton, and leaving her chargeable thereto.

He was found guilty and was committed to the House of Correction for one month.

1856 – Sudden Death Whilst Cutting Bacon

Ann Bowers was cutting some bacon when she suddenly fell down and died.

Verdict at inquest was Died by the Visitation of God.

1857 – Well Accident

Thomas Blakeway, a pensioner, was lowered down the shaft of a well belonging to Mr. Owens of Kimbolton, in order that he could retrieve the bucket and chain which had dropped down there.

Unfortunately, the rope to which he was attached, broke, and he fell to the bottom.  William Smith, a young man with a ladder, eventually brought Thomas to the top of the well, but he was found to be dead from a fractured skull.

1800 – Step Mother Kills Child

An 8 year old girl by the name of Anne Collins of King’s Caple was unfortunate enough to have a really wicked stepmother, who constantly and horribly abused her until eventually the poor girl died.

1841 – Wagon Accident for King’s Caple Farmer

For every village there are umpteen reports of accidents very similar to this one:

Mr. James Tingle, a farmer of King’s Caple had taken his team of horses and wagon to Walford in order to pick up a load of lime.  On his way back he had to go through the ford across the River Wye at Sellack, where he slipped and fell.

The wagon wheel went over him, badly breaking his left arm and bruising most of his body.  Unlike many such cases, James survived.

1853 – Incredible Escape on Railway Tunnel Works

Workmen involved in constructing a tunnel at King’s Caple had 15cwt of blasting powder in their magazine, but somehow had left a barrel with 3 or 4 lbs of the powder outside the tunnel.

A young lad for reasons known only to himself decided to try to explode the barrel by lighting a match…….he was badly injured of course, but luckily the bulk of the powder was not affected by the explosion.

Soon after, the men saw smoke coming from the magazine, and with heroic bravery they fetched water to throw over it, and happily they succeeded in preventing a catastrophe.  When they rolled the barrels of powder out of the magazine to be dried out, one of them fell to bits from the burning that the wood had sustained.

A very near miss for a great many men.

1854 – Indecent Assault at King’s Caple

A rather drunk George Butler of King’s Caple indecently assaulted Sarah, the wife of John Wilson – John was less than amused, and gave him a thorough beating.

When in court, George said that he didn’t know what he was doing as he had had too much to drink – he was convicted of aggravated assault and was put in gaol for three months with hard labour.

1859 – Native of King’s Caple Drowns in America

Thomas Brisland, a carpenter,  left King’s Caple and emigrated to the United States.  On 10th July 1858 he went for a swim in a river, and never came out.

1862 – Alleged Neglect of Duty by Parish Doctor

Benjamin Brown was working as a labourer on the farm of Mr. Ratcliffe of Street-house, King’s Caple.

Whilst breaking up firewood, Benjamin was suddenly taken ill, and the parish doctor was immediately called, but he failed to turn up and before too long the poor chap died.

At the inquest the doctor was castigated for neglect of duty, and was duly cautioned.

1862 – Woman Killed by Lightning at King’s Caple

During a violent thunderstorm over King’s Caple, three women who were working in a field on Penalt Farm ran for shelter under a tree.  When the lightning increased they became frightened, and a Mrs Collins ran for the farm leaving the other two, Lewis and Edwards, under the tree.

Lightning hit the tree and broke it in two, killing the woman named Lewis and so badly injuring Edwards that she was not expected to survive

1867 – Unprecedented Rainfall at King’s Caple

In early September 1867, W. Clement Ley wrote to the Hereford Time with the following report:

“It may interest some of your readers to know that in the terrific thunderstorm which passed over this part of the county on Tuesday afternoon, there fell at this place as much as 2.40 inches of rain in three quarters of an hour.  The rain was mingled with large hailstones and accompanied by the most tremendous thunder and lightning.  We had four distinct thunder storms during the day, and the total rainfall as measured by my guage was 2.96 inches.  This is a greater amount than any that has fallen in 24 hours since August 13th 1857, but the fall of nearly 2 and a half inches, or one tenth of the whole mean annual rainfall in less than an hour, is I think, quite unprecedented.”

1893 – Sad Death of Widow at Kings Caple

74 year old Walter Preece, a labourer of King’s Caple, had died after a long illness and was due to be buried in King’s Caple graveyard.

As his widow, Maria Preece aged 53, was getting ready for the funeral she suddenly felt ill and called out to her daughter Bessie to bring her a drop of whisky.

By the time that Bessie arrived with the whisky, her mother was dead.

Walter’s funeral was delayed by an hour, and his widow was buried in the same churchyard a couple of days later.

1847 – Waggoner’s Boy Killed

Henry Underwood, a lad of 12, was working for Mr. Proctor of King’s Pyon;  he was entrusted with driving the horse and cart when the horse bolted, dragging the cart over the top of Henry.

He was killed outright.

1891 – Midwife blamed for Death of Woman at King’s Pyon

Mary Ann Lloyd aged 39 was the wife of George Lloyd, a labourer, and early one morning in November she went into labour with her 12th child.  (Yes, 12th!).

George Lloyd had arranged that Dr. Walker would attend the birth if necessary, but had also engaged a midwife, Caroline Scandrett who arrived once labour had begun, along with a neighbour Mrs. White.

Unfortunately Mary Ann died 2 hours after the child was born, and it transpired that Mrs. Scandrett had no real idea of the duties of a midwife and became flustered when things went a bit wrong.

The Jury at the inquest returned a verdict of death by haemorrage, and that Mrs. Scandrett was to blame for undertaking duties that she could not perform, and for not sending for the doctor.

The Coroner expressed the hope that he hoped both Mrs. Scandrett and others would learn the lesson that such a serious undertaking should not be taken lightly.

1896 – Death of Child at King’s Pyon

Leonard Davies, aged one year and nine months and the son of George Davies, groom at King’s Pyon, was sitting in his high chair when it collapsed and he fell to the floor.

Leonard’s injuries were so severe that he died 15 hours later.

1899 – A King’s Pyon Man Gives his Account of the Cuban War with Spain

I make no apologies for the length of this item – it is truly fascinating.

John (Jack) Walker, a native of King’s Pyon who fought in the American ranks in Cuba during the war with Spain, was the eldest son of John Walker of Garnstone Lodge, Weobley.

He sent a letter to his brother Henry Walker of Hamwell Leaze, Cainscross, Gloucestershire, who kindly allowed it to be published in the Hereford Times.

Graphic Letter on the Horrors of War dated 3rd Dec. 1898

My Dear Brother – I was very very glad to get a letter from you and to hear that you and your family were all right;  also to hear that you were a good Templar:  stick it out – I was once one myself.  You will be surprised to see that I am in Milwaukee.  I am on special recruiting service now for my old Regiment, the reward of virtue, or rather for meritorious conduct at El Caney, Cuba.  I am Lance Sergeant now, and all I have to do is get the railroad tickets for the recruits and see them in the train for Fort Snelling.  I don’t know how long it will last, but I hope a good while.  You see our Regiment is ordered to Manila, and I am stove up too bad to be any good for active service any more, so Uncle Sam and the old Colonel gave me a soft job for a while.  We have fine quarters and board in first class restaurant so can rest up for the winter.  I came back from the campaign the middle of September, and have been very sick ever since.  I had the Calentuna Fever, or in plain English, Yellow Jack.

Only a Shadow of my Former Self

I only weight 140 lbs;  but am improving slowly and hope to be all right by the time summer comes again.  I am a grey headed old man Harry;  my best days are gone, I am afraid never to come back.  Well, I don’t know that I have any regrets;  it’s no use anyway.  My time expires August 6th 1899;  I shall either try for a pension or some Government job.  I have a pretty good pull with all the officers that will help me a good deal.  Well, anyway, I upheld the honour of the family a long way from home;  maybe, and not much credit, but here I get the credit and that’s all I care for really.  I have had the honour of President KcKilney shaking me by the hand and calling me one of his Santiago heroes.  There were 20 of us presented to him at the White House, Washington, and all for distinguished service in the field.  That was a glorious day, old man, for me;  I was the proudest man in the American Army, and somehow I was glad I was born a Briton.  Well, old man, I suppose now you would like a short history of the campaign.  I cannot tell you very much, I was at the front all the time and could not see perhaps as much as some could at the rear.  We left Port Snelling for Cuba April 19th 1898.  Our Route was liberally covered with flowers after we struck the Southern States;  crowds of girls invaded the train and took us by storm.

The whole of the United States was in a Ferment of Excitement

At every town we stopped bands and crowds of people met us and bade us “God Speed You” “Remember the Maine” was the battle cry and we remembered her.  “Vengeance is mine” etc. you know the rest.  We mobilised 17,000 troops at Mobile, Horse, Foot and Dragoons, and sailed the 3rd day of June with 36 transports conveyed by a portion of the Navy.  After untold sufferings from lack of room, bad rations, and putrid water for 20 days, we came in sight of Baiquiri, Cuba, at 9 a.m. the 23rd June.  The Navy commenced the bombardment.  It was the grandest sight I ever saw or ever will see again.  We landed in small boats from the troopships under fire of the guns of the Navy (by the way, we have a smashing Navy, if she is small, she is modern).  The Spaniards retreated without much resistance and left all their staff behind.  We camped there that night, and next day, at night, we made a forced march to Siboney where Roosevelt’s Rough Riders got it in the neck.  Our Regiment did outpost duty there three or four days until 30th June when the orders came for our Brigade to join Lanton and Wheelers division at the front.  We made a forced march that night and got to Wheelers headquarters at 3 a.m. on the 1st and slept behind the stacks till daylight when we took the line of march for Caney.  At 6 p.m. Caproa’s battery opened the ball;  we could hear the firing plainly.  In about an hour we met the wounded coming from the Field Hospital.  In another hour we were on the edge of the battlefield, the beautiful valley of E. Caney;  it was a glorious sight – that is, for a while.  Soon after we entered the valley our first man was killed, shot through the heart.

We Realised that we Were Under Fire

My brigade were on the right and the formation of the fighting line was in the shape of a horseshoe.  To the left were the heights of the San Juan, and on the right the town and fortifications of Caney.  Our point of atack was a solid Blockhouse on the heights of Caney, similar to Rodborough Fort and about as steep, the ascent being covered with brush.  Well, after losing a number of men we got to the foot of the hill.  From the post above us I could see their guns belching flames of fire but no smoke from Mausers or field pieces.  We could see them, the Dons, plainly.  Then the order ran along the lines “Charge and take the Blockhouse”.  Then we knew hell or near it was coming;  we had the hill two thirds surrounded;  it was no rapid charge, I tell you, up that hill – crawling on our bellies in the brush the best way we could.  Right there I made unconsciously a small record for myself;  I was away ahead of the firing line, when Capt. Bell, my Co. Commander, called out “Walker come back on the firing line”.  I did not recognise his voice in the roar of battle.  I holloaed as loud as I could “Come back Bell, make this the firing lines”.  The fellows all yelled “Go it Johnny Bull, we’d follow you to hell and through it”, and we went up that hill like wild devils, and the carnage, God forgive me, was awful.  The Dons stood their ground like men for about five minutes then ran.

The Ground was Covered with Dead and Wounded

Down cam the crimson and gold of the Flag Staff and up went ours.  The men were like a lot of maniacs, hugging one another and raising hell.  In the meantime I went over and tried to apologise to my captain for talking back.  He said “no apologies needed Walker, I’ll mention your conduct to Colonel Page” and he did.  That’s one reason I am here now.  I got a thrust from a Spanish bayonet through the sleeve of my shirt before he recovered from the mis spent blow.  Well, I am pretty swift myself with a bayonet at short range.  We rested a while then it came dark and we had to make another forced march to the extreme right to support General Kent’s division.  You see, there were only 16000 Regulars to begin with;  the Volunteers as a rule were a total failure.  We had them doing guard and stevedore duty.  It was a horrible march that night, that I will never forget;  thought streams waist deep and mud;  the roads, what they were, cut up with waggons and artillery;  no shoes on our feet and no grub for 40 hours, and yet you would hear no man complain.  We passed over a part of the San Juan battlefield and the groans of the wounded were dreadful.  On the San Juan crest of the hill we actually had to pass over the dead Spaniards.  At 4 a.m. of 2nd July the command bivouacked on St. Paul’s Hill right opposite Santiago.  We lay down awhile and at daybreak they opened on us again with all kinds of shot and shell.  At 7 a.m. Major Smith of the 2nd Infantry came galloping up and inquired “What regiment is this?”   We all replied, The 3rd.

We want you to Relieve my Regiment in the Trenches….

…. they are out of ammuniton and can’t hold out any longer.  We took up the double time for about 500 yards under a withering fire, til we struck the trenches.  I had not been in the trenches five minutes before my right hand man was shot by a Manser through the arm.  I bound up his arm the best I could, and sent him to the rear.  The Spanish had the range down fire.  the shells would explode right over us.  One piece blew the loose dirt of the trench over my head and covered me up almost.  I thought I was a goner.  The trouble was, we had orders not to return the fire until attacked.  The sun was awful hot that day, and no shade and mighty little water.  Towards the afternoon they came forward in battalions. At 600 yards they deployed, and at 500 yards the order came to fire at will.  That meant as fast as you can load and fire.  They reeled, staggered, and came on again to within 300 yards;  and then broke and ran.

Our Gatlin and Hotchiss batteries Swept them Down like Flies

If we had had Reserves we would have taken Santiago that night, but we only had one thin line.  3,000 men would have been enough.  At 7 p.m. we were relieved by the 20th Infantry, and went back to St. Pablo Hill;  and at 9.30 they made their night attack on the whole line.  It was a forlorn hope.  They had an idea they could take the trenches back.  They shelled us again and again.  During the engagement a shell burst about 20 feet from my left, killed the Colonel’s two horses, and one piece of the shell (shrapnel) struck me a glancing blow on the shoulder, placing me hors de combat for a while.  The Dons were finally repulsed, and the works were still ours.  The next day the flag of truce went up, and finally on 17th July the American flag was flying in Santiago.  But you know as much as I do about that.  After all the fighting was over, I was knocked out by Yellow Jack, escaped death, boarded the “Yale” formerly the “City of Paris” and came to God’s Country, landing at Mountain Point, Long Island, New York.  There we had hell again for a while.  In September the Regiment left for home, its ranks thinned by death and disease.

Out of 500 strong Men that Left in the Spring only 200 Cripples Returned

I had a month’s furlough and went home, but I never had a day’s pleasure all the time;  I was sick all the while.  But now I am getting better and gaining in weight.  All the time, I’ll never be the same man again;  the underpinning seems to be knocked from under me.  Lizzie stood it well while I was gone.  I’ve got a nice little house to live in outside the garrison;  it’s a quiet little spot.  I might as well tell you that when I went to Cuba I was a non combatant;  I was a Saddler Sergeant in the field and at Snelling, but when the scrapping commenced I threw up the job.  I suppose the Old British Lion rose in me;  anyway I would not stay in the rear.  The same job is kept waiting for me until I get well;  you see, that is 15 dols. a month extra and I am my own boss, don’t do any soldier’s duty at all, and then I do lots of shoe repairing on the side so that I get along pretty good.

Well Henry, my boy, I guess you will have tired of reading the above, so I will conclude by quoting the words of the late General Sherman “War is hell”.

Well good bye old man, love to all.  I am the same as ever,

Your affectionate brother

Jack

1899 – Fire on King’s Pyon Farm

Fire broke out on a farm run by Richard Oliver, Hyde Field, King’s Pyon, and as the smoke was spotted by neighbours, men women and children rushed to the scene carrying buckets.

More than a hundred helpers turned out but a huge wheat rick was fully ablaze, and priority was given to adjacent ricks.  Hop and garden engines were employed to spray them with great success, and T. Griffiths of Little Dilwyn rode at speed to Leominster to summon the fire engine…….he actually covered the seven miles in twenty minutes, despite the numerous hills.  (I hope that the poor horse was okay).

The volunteer neighbours were coming to the end of their energies when the fire engine arrive, the horses completely lathered, and watched thankfully as the firemen, under the direction of Captain Budd,  quickly dampened down the fire.

The fire was caused by a spark from an engine which was in place for threshing, and some 20 tons of straw and 400 bushels of wheat were lost;  fortunately it was insured with the Norwich Union Fire Office.

1899 – No Dog License

David James of King’s Pyon was fined 6d with 7s 6d costs for not having a license for his dog.

1899 – Girl Burns to Death at King’s Pyon

Mary Jane Delahay was the six year old daughter of William Henry Delahay,  a Mason from Hill Corner Cottage, King’s Pyon.

She and her little brother had been left in the house to roast apples over the fire, but when the little boy dropped an apple Mary Jane tried to get it out of the flames.  Her pinafore caught fire, and she ran screaming out of the house to where her father was some 100 yards away.

He smothered the flames with his arms, whilst the mother ran for oil and to send for the doctor.

The doctor found Mary Jane to be badly burned around the face;  neck;  arms;  legs and back, and he redressed the burns but thought it unlikely that she would survive, and indeed she died from shock the following day.

The Coroner commented that people should use proper fire guards.

1849 – Christmas Benefactions at Kingsland

The Rev. R.D. Evans presented his usual gift of beef to the deserving poor of Kingsland.  On Christmas day, he gave the Church choir a wonderful dinner, tea and supper.

The farmers of Kingsland gave all their workmen and servants a dinner of roast beef, plum pudding and mince pies.  This is a custom that Kingsland farmers always follow, and it was one day that they could rise from the table and say that they had had enough!

Normally, a labourer with a family to support out of just 7s or 8s a week must be careful how much bread he eats in case there is not enough for the following day, and perhaps would never dare eat nearly enough to give him enough strength for the day’s toil.

1851 – Kingsland Church School Festival

The Rector of Kingsland and his lady gave their annual treat to the schoolchildren at the Rectory.

At 4 p.m. 90 children went to the Rectory along with their master and governess;  after singing Grace they were provided with plum cake and tea which was served by the daughters of Colonel Halifax and Sir. H. Cuyler.

Having eaten their fill, the children played games, sang and danced until 9 p.m., when, it was reported,  over a hundred were liberally supplied with cider and bread and cheese.  Now, I assume that these were adults who had joined the party…….but maybe not??!

The National Anthem was then sung, and the children went home happy and contented.

Two days later, the school was inspected by the Rev. Waring, the diocesan inspector, and it was declared to be progressive and well disciplined, with careful attention being paid to each child.  The number of children was 120, with an average attendance of 88.

1854 – Postie Has a Dunking

The postman delivering letters between Kingsland and Wigmore had to cross the River Lugg by means of a narrow plank which was the only bridge.  Some mindless clot had thought it clever to saw through the bottom of the plank, so that when postie reached the middle it broke in two, sending him and the letter straight into the river.

He managed to regain the bank, but had to run the rest of the way in order to be in time to deliver the letters, all of which were now soaked.

The incident was reported in the hope that the person who destroyed the bridge could be caught, and also to explain to those who received wet letters the reason why.

1858 – Letters Home from a Soldier in India

John Powell, a native of Kingsland who had been a ploughboy, enlisted with the 5th Dragoon Guards at the age of 18.

Two of his letters home were given to the Hereford Times, the first to his mother and the second to a friend:

Camp Jugdespore, 16 Miles from Arrah, May 30 1858

“My dear Mother, I know you are very uneasy of not receiving some news from me sooner than you can expect, but, my dear mother, the way everything is going on of late is shocking to be seen.  But I sincerely hope for this to find you and brothers and sisters to be in the enjoyment of good health and spirits, as this leaves me, thanks be to the Almighty for his goodness.  The last letter I sent to you was in Boodlepore on lst February on my way to Lucknow under General Ranks, commanding the division.

Boodlepore and Lucknow

Between Boodlepore and Lucknow we fought three engagements with the Sepoys.  At Chandy was the first on 19th February;  and on 23rd February at Sultanpore.   The other was on 4th March, on our way, and the same day we arrived at Lucknow.  Our loss was, in the three engagements, only two killed and sixteen wounded, but the enemy’s loss was great.  My dear mother, I must say but little about what has taken place since I left quarters, for there is no time for anything, only very hard duty and fighting up to this day.  We arrived at Lucknow on the 4th March 1858 and we finished the taking of Lucknow on 20th of the same month.  The loss in my regiment was very trifling all through, considering.  We had 12 killed and 36 wounded but several died of their wounds.  I was very near being shot many times, but luckily escaped unhurt.

Azingurh and Jugdespore

On 28th March the Commander in Chief gave out the distribution of the army which was a great sight to see such an army in one camp together was was before Lucknow.  My regiment, the 34th and the 84th with the 2nd Battalion Military Train, some Royal Artillery, and Madras ditto, under General Lugard, were marched to Azingurh, where the rebels held possession of, but most of them were away before we came.  We had one man killed and three wounded.  We left the 34th Regiment there.  The rebels made their way to Jugdespore and the remainder of us came here after them.  There is a large jungle all around this place, about 16 miles in length and three in width.  We left Anan on 7th of this month, without a bed or change of clothing, and we have been in that state until today.  I was ten days and nights at the taking of Lucknow, without a bed or a change, but this has been worse.

We have been engaged four times since we left Anan, on 9th of this month we took Jugdespore;  on the llth about eight miles away;  on 20th, near to this;  and again on 26th we hunted them through the jungle but it was a pity neither our cavalry nor artillery could come through with us, but each day we killed a great many of them.”

The Second letter:

Bankepore, near Patna, 30th June 1858

“My dear friend, I dare say by this time you will think me numbered with the many that have been slain in this dreadful mutiny.  Thanks be to God for his mercies to us poor creatures in this country, for let me tell you, during the severe campaign I have not been a day sick all the time.

Chandia and Sultanpore

On 23rd December 1857 my regiment received an order from the Commander in Chief to proceed to join a brigade which was forming in the Oude territory under command of Brigade-General Franks, C.B.  After a little hard marching and fatigue, we formed on 1st February 1858.  The brigade was composed of 10th, 21st and 9th Regiments besides six battalions of Ghurkas, with guns in proportion.  The brigade being supplied with everything for a long march left Budlepore some 13 days afterwards and proceeded to intercept some rebels at another strong fort called Chandia, which we completed on 19th taking their possession and seven field guns, with a very little loss on our side.  Report of the enemy loss was eight hundred killed and wounded.

We set off in the direction of Sultanpore (a native station) when it was known there was a very large body of the enemy in a good position with lots of guns.  On the morning of the 23rd we marched in battle array until we came about two miles from the town;  when the old chief and staff started off to reconoitre.

After finding out the exact place their batteries were stationed, he rode back and ordered the brigade to take ground to the left by fours so by that means it took us out of their range, and before they could bring their guns around in the proper position or direction, I should say, we were out of their range and close under their batteries, and in a very few moments possession of some of their guns and put them to flight.  We followed them up from day break until 12 noon and captured 21 field pieces of cannon with a great portion of their baggage and stores, and besides killed and wounded estimated to about 200.  We lost on this occasion 2 officers killed, also 6 men killed and 16 wounded, which is very little considering the loss on the other side.

Lucknow and Kisme Baugh

After halting one day we proceeded on and took up our encampment, thinking we were going to stop some time, but behold our surprise on fine morning there came in a despatch from the Commander in Chief ordering our General to march forthwith in the direction of Lucknow and concentrate our brigade with that of his.  But that was no easy matter, for there was lots of the enemy between us and the old Chief (Sir Colin Campbell), and our brigade had a skirmish nearly every other day.  But on 4th March we joined the army before Lucknow and a more beautiful sight I never saw, to see the whole of the English Army in camp, before one of the greatest cities in India.  To speak of this great place would fill a newspaper, suffice it to say it is called the city of palaces, and indeed a more approriate name could not be given to it.  Well to go on with the siege, it commenced on 2nd March two days before we joined, but on 5th our brigade was ordered to take their place, and from that date to the 19th we were hard at work my regiment taking a very active part in it.  On the 14th my regiment took a very large palace, called the Kisme Baugh, and indeed if I say it was the most handsomest building I ever see I cannot be wrong, and I am sorry to say the regiment suffered rather severe, I cannot exactly say how many were killed, but killed and wounded about 30.  We got great praise and we occupied the palace some days, until the whole of the enemy was routed out of the town, and then we went to camp and remained there until 28th when the army was broke up and sent in different directions.  My regiment was sent to a flying brigade under General Lugard K.C.B. composed of 10th 34th and 84th regiments with artillery in proportion, and 2nd battalion military train besides some Sikh cavalry.  And away go Jack again.

The Azimgurh District and Kooer Sing

We started on the 29th in the direction of Dinapore, great part of the same road I went up, and it was known the Azimgurh district was unsettled by Kooer Sing and his rebels.  We marched 30 miles that first day and it was no joke but to our surprise we had to force march all the way, going eighteen twenty and twenty five miles a day, I assure you it was a very severe march – so long and in the heat of the sun that even the elephants, camels, bullocks and horses died under their burden.  On our arrival at Azimgurh, true enough the rebels were there, but they did not stand their ground long for we soon routed them and killed a great number of them by following up a few miles.  Our loss was 2 killed and several slightly wounded.  Well, on they went, crossed the Ganges and into the Shaabad district where Kooer belong to;  but he died shortly afterwards from a wound he received from us.

Azimgurh, Anah and Jugdespore

We remained in Azimgurh a few days to get everything ready to proceed again;  here we left the 34th to do duty, and on the remainder of us went, force marching as usual, to a ghaut at the River Ganges between Bucar and Anah, crossed over, and arrived in Anah on 5th May.  Our General found out here that the rebels were gone to Jugdespore, some 16 miles;  and on 7th we left Anah taking only part of our tents, and leaving all our beds behind.  Before this time we had thrown away our coats by the Colonel’s order, and we went away in just the clothing we stood in.  On our approaching Jugdespore the General soon formed us in battle array, and we had to fight hard for our lives;  the enemy was that numerous that our brigade was surrounded on all sides.  They had one gun.  We followed them up when they got together, beat them clean out of the town, and took their gun.

Sad fate of H.M.’s 35th

I was very near to forgetting to let you know the sad fate that befel of a party of H.Ms 35th, a week or so near this place.  There were some sailors, I believe 200 in all. They were sent from Anah to intercept the rebels, but I am sorry to say they were mistaken and found themselves overpowered.  They had two guns.  They retired to come back, but Jack Sepoy cut nearly the whole of them up and also too the guns.  This of course made the rebels spring up.

Chutoure

Well, after we gaining the day on 9th, the rebels formed up again at a place called Chutoure, 8 miles from the latter town.  There is a wood from Jugdespore about 16 miles in length.  On the 11th we marched on Chutoure.  Here a very hard engagement took place.  We did not bring the 84th here, they were left to guard all the camp.  The fight lasted two hours as fas as ever we could load and fire;  but we routed them clear away.  The enemy’s loss was great, ours trifling.  1 killed and 6 wounded.  Two days afterwards we marched back to camp.  On 20th was the next battle at a village two miles from our camp where they came, there cavalry and infantry at first showed a good front, we first opened fire, it was sharp on both sides, but only a short time, as usual they retired, but we ran a great number down.

More Skirmishes

On the morning of 26th we had another battle, the General took us in skirmishing order through the jungle as we call it, only six miles away;  we found the lads again in readiness;  here we had sharp work also, they stood well for some time, and no mistake, a good many of them was killed.  This day we took the two guns the 35th lost, no one on our side killed but a few wounded.  On 2nd June another battle took place in the midst of the wood, not knowing the exact spot where they was, and this part was very thick with bushes, we could not see very far in front, and not easy to keep our distance.  Behold to our surprise the enemy was kneeling musket in hand, and let a volley into us skirmishers in front before we could see them, on 50 yards from them, but very lucky only one man wounded at this instant.  At them we went, following up to an open plain where our rifle balls told tales on them.

On 4th June was the 6th and last battle in and around the jungle of Jugdespore, this battle we fought at Chuturie where they formed up again;  we heard that they were determined to fight well at this place and to kill every one of us and not retire any more;  and on our arrival at this place at the edge of the wood, behind a deep ditch, they was ready and waiting, and there is no mistake I assure you, they stood very well.  A file fire was kept up for some time, but they did not stand to what they said, for when they was closed tight they began to retire, and after them at the charge, with our cavalry on the right also at the charge, for the direction they took was an open plain, all the better for us, and the battle was over.

The ground was strewed well with their dead and blood for about ten miles;  the enemy’s loss was very great, ours was but little after all.  1 man killed of my company and 1 wounded, 1 officer killed and several men wounded.

On all these occasions we took great part of their baggage and stores.  During all the time moving about here we was 23 days without our beds or even a change of clothing, but exposed to the severe heat, cold ground when it rained, and but little time to have any rest.  We came back to Anah on 16th and arrived in Dinapore on 19th.  Welcome back by the inhabitants, played in by the band of H.M. 35th Regiment.  We only remained three days in Dinapore.

Your well wisher and friend,

John Powell”

1843 – The Bans Forbid!

One Sunday in Kingstone Church, the clergyman published the names of James Morgan and Jane Morgan as a couple soon to be married, and immediately a young girl by the name of Emma Cooke shouted out “I forbid the bans!”.

The congregation was agog, and gossip was rife as to the cause of the objection, however it later transpired that James had been courting Emma for some considerable time, then suddenly threw her over for Jane who he asked to be his bride.

It was debatable whether this was a valid ground for objection against the publication of the bans, or indeed whether it was a case of breach of promise.

1845 – The Inevitable Deaths by Fire of Children

Every village has many of these reports – there were actually five cases on the same page in the Hereford Journal – so sad.

Lucy Cherburne, a three year old, died at Kingstone when her clothes caught fire.

1846 – Suicide at Kingstone

William Meek of Kingstone was around 56 years of age, and was married with three children.

A near neighbour, Ann Cane, heard William’s wife crying and rushed out to see what was wrong – when she was told that William had hung himself from a beam in a barn next to his house she immediately went to see, and finding William quite dead asked a passing man to help her cut him down and take him into the house.

At the inquest it was revealed that William had tried to hang himself three months previously, and the verdict was Destroyed himself while in a state of insanity.

1853 – Cheeky Toll Evasion by Kingstone Man

Charles Adams of Kingstone was summoned by Mr. Loxton who was the lessee of tolls, for evading payment of toll when passing through Widemarsh gate.

Charles was seen to drive through Wye bridge turnpike gate, saying that he had a ticket from the Bowling Green gate, but he neglected to show this to the collector.  Soon afterwards he arrived at Widemarsh gate, and passed through that one too without paying the toll or producing a ticket;  he said that he had one from Wye bridge.

Unfortunately for Charles, Mr. Loxton happened to be at Widemarsh at the time and he hurried back to the former gate to see if what Charles had said was true…….it wasn’t!

Charles did try to pay in retrospect but Mr. Loxton was having none of it, as he was becoming increasingly cross about the growing number of toll evaders.

The fine was normally set at £5, but in this case Charles was fined 10s and expenses.

1854 – Distressing Death of Elderly Woman

71 year old Jane Wall of Kingstone had not been well for some time, and for a month had been unable to do anything around the house or even look after herself.

Her husband got up at 5 one morning, as usual, and after Jane declined anything to drink or eat went off to work.  He came back at 10 in order to help her down the stairs and make some breakfast, but was met with a very sad sight.

Jane had tried to get dressed and go downstairs, but had ended up falling and her husband found her at the bottom in a pool of blood.  He called a neighbour to help him carry her back up to bed, but she never regained consciousness and died the next morning.

1856 – Kingstone Man Wins Prize at Wormside Ploughing Match

There were some strange classes in those days at ploughing matches, and in 1856 William Jenkins of Kingstone gained first prize for the man who had reared the greatest number of children without parochial aid.

He had 10 children, and was awarded £1;  John Waters of Kingstone came second with 7 children.

1859 – Turnip Thief at Kingstone

James Philpotts and his son Joseph, both labourers of Kingstone, were taken to Abbeydore Petty Sessions by Mr. Adams of Kingstone who accused them of stealing his swede turnips.

The case was proved by P.C. Pinches, and James was sentenced to 7 days imprisonment.

1834 – Woman Dies in Brewhouse Copper

Mr. Cawley, a Veterinary Surgeon, was on his way home to Kington after attending a patient in the early hours of the morning, and as he passed the Lamb Inn he heard terrible cries and screams for help.

Mr. Cawley tried to rouse the sleeping inmates of the house, but having no luck he moved on to the neighbours – again with no luck.

With great difficulty he traced the fading cries to the brewhouse, where he found 73 year old Mary Price, a long time assistant brewer at The Lamb, had fallen into the copper which unfortunately was full of boiling water at the time.

She was still just about alive, but perhaps fortunately for her, she died before she could be removed.

Such a sad and horrible end for a lady known for her industry and honesty;  she had saved an incredible £150 from her hard earned pay, £50 of which she had lent to other people and the rest she had hidden in her house.

1841 – Would-be Beer Sellers Refused License

The magistrates assembled at Kington decided not to “grant the prayer of several parties of beer sellers” who wanted to become licensed victuallers, because they thought that there were more than enough in the town already.

1841 – Cruelty to Cattle

Several cows in Kington were found to have had their tails cut off, and a reward of five pounds was offered for any information leading to the conviction of the perpetrators.

Elsewhere in the county, horses were suffering the same fate.

1842 – The “Badger” Fight!

William Thomas, alias Bill the Badger, and Edward Thomas alias Ned the Badger, two brothers, were found drunk and fighting in Church Street, Kington.

When P.C. Wilson and Constable William Lloyd approached them, the badger boys thought it a good idea to resist arrest and scuffle with the plods instead of each other.

When in court, the rather sorry boys admitted the offences and promised never to do it again, whereupon the magistrates (probably trying to suppress a smile) took their previous good character into consideration and were not too stern with the fines.

1847 – Accident at Kington Wool Factory

Thomas Stocker, a 12 year old boy had been working for Mr. Swain, the owner of a wool manufactory, for some two weeks.  He was employed for the task of plucking wool from the machine and had been cautioned by Mr. Swain on the dangers, who had also given him instructions on what to do or not to do.

Unfortunately, the glove he was wearing became caught in the “plucker” when he disregarded safety precautions and his hand was dragged in to the machinery.

Once released, he was taken home and treated by the surgeon, but although he was recovering well initially, tetanus set in and he subsequently died.

Mr. Swain said that in his 30 years in business he had often employed boys of 10 or 12, including his own child, and that the machinery was in good working order, but that on his own admission Thomas had disregarded the safety instructions.

The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, but said that inexperienced boys should not be employed in such work in the future.

1857 – Imminent Opening of Leominster and Kington Railway

It was announced that the line would be formally opened on 28th July 1857, with a public lunch at the Oxford Arms Hotel in Kington at one o’clock precisely.

It was something that was looked forward to with great joy, as it marked the chance for huge opportunity for inhabitants of the town of Kington.

1857 – Kington Lammas Fair

The annual fair was held on 3rd August, and was deemed to be the largest for many years, with a full supply of dealers and stock changing hands at top prices.  the sheep and lamb trade was unusually high.

1859 – Kington Cricket Club Re-Opens

After many years without a cricket club, a new one was set up in 1859, after many young determined men threw themselves into the task.

A field between the town and the railway station was obtained, and many stalwarts of the town agreed to be honorary members.  The team went from strength to strength and became very good in later years.

1859 – Young Woman Dies of Syphilis in Kington

Elizabeth Eddings, a 21 year old girl, died suddenly at the house of her parents in, James and Jane Eddings of Kington and as happens in villages, rumours abounded as to whether she had been murdered,  as it was known that she had horrible marks on her face and head.

The Coroner, N. Lanwarne Esq. held an inquest along with W. Blakely Esq., Surgeon of Kington.  The Surgeon and the jury inspected the body, and very quickly realised that Elizabeth had advanced syphilis.

Elizabeth was one of six children and although she had been in service she never stayed long in any one job, and eventually became a prostitute working in Worcester, Wolverhampton, Birmingham and Bromyard for some three years.  When she became very ill, she returned home in a dreadful state – shoeless, ragged clothes and swollen eyes, not to mention the terrible sores on her head and back.  She was also filthy, and once her tattered clothing was removed it was apparent that the chronic sores and syphilitic eruptions had been there for some considerable time.  She was also an alcoholic.

She quickly went downhill and died a short time after returning home.

The verdict at the inquest was Death by the Visitation of God from natural causes, and from erysipelas on head and face produced from exposure to cold and privation, operating upon a constitution tainted with syphilis.

That silenced the rumour mongers!

1863 – Huge Eel at Kington

Two men from Kington were walking across a field near Titley when they saw what they thought was a large snake.  They approached it, and discovered that it was in fact an enormous eel, which was later proved to weigh five and a quarter pounds.

1866 – Kington National Schools

The annual distribution of shoes and boots to children attending the Kington National Schools took place at the end of December 1865, and 60 pairs were given out to those who had been present at school for the most number of days since the last Government inspection.

The boots this time were made by Mr. James Knowles of High Street, Kington, and were of top quality.

1846 – Child Burnt at Kinnersley

Here it is, the inevitable report of a child’s clothes catching fire – every village had a sad list of these.

Hannah Skyrme aged 7 strayed too close to the hearth, and her clothes caught fire.  She was burnt to death.

1852 – Leg Smashed in Threshing Machine at Kinnersley

George Ambury of Castle House, Clifford was attending his steam threshing machine at Kinnersley when he became careless and his leg ended up being pulled between the rollers of the hopper, where it was crushed to pieces.

He was taken to his father’s house where Messrs. Trumper and Llyde, surgeons, of Hay checked him over and decided that the only course of action was to amputate his leg at the top of the thigh.  They performed the operation straight away, using chloroform to put him out, and he never felt the leg being removed.

He recovered well.

1863 – Fatal Accident on Railway Line at Kinnersley

John Stead aged 25 was a platelayer and repairer on the Hereford, Hay and Brecon Railway;  he was working at Kinnersley station which was not yet opened and on the evening in question went to light the signal down the line.

As he walked back, he was knocked down by a special train and was found lying beside the rails – still alive but with “his brains protruding”.

George Dowdeswell was the engine driver on the West Midland Railway that night, and he said that he set off from Hereford to Eardisley at 9.10 p.m.  When he came to the Norton Canon bank he saw a light which told him that the line was clear, so he carried on and it wasn’t until the next day that he found out a man had been killed.

John Hemming, the Kinnersley station master said that the station was not yet open for passengers, but that there were safety procedures for when the special train came through.

The verdict was accidental death.

1866 – Tramp Cuts Horses’ Tails Off

This man may well be the culprit of several instances of this crime being reported elsewhere in Herefordshire at the time.

Tom Thomas “a repulsive looking” tramp, who admitted to going by several names, was charged with cutting off the tails of three horses belonging to James Smith a farmer of Kinnersley.

The tramp, whatever his true name was, admitted to the charge – he had no choice as he tried to sell the horse hair in Leominster at the marine store belonging to Mr. Jones, and it was found to match the remaining tail hair of the horses belonging to James Smith.  He said that he was looking forward to having a good seven years in gaol with a bed and something to eat every day, but he was probably disappointed in his sentence of three months’ imprisonment with hard labour.

1839 Lucky Escape

The Rev H. W. Maddock along with the Misses Grey and others were travelling from Kinsham Court in two phaeotons.

Shortly after leaving the Court, when going down a hill, Mr. Maddock’s horse became somewhat unmanageable when the harness broke,  and charged forwards, banging into the other phaeton driven by Robert Me Murdo, causing it to overturn.  The occupants were thrown out, and the second horse took fright, bolting down the hill until it came to a gate which it tried to jump……it was halted in its tracks by the wrecked carriage that it was still dragging.

Mr. Me Murdo managed to prevent the other horse from also bolting, thus probably saving many lives.

Another carriage was obtained to take the ladies home, and Mr. Me Murdo volunteered to take the intact phaeton back, accompanied by the Rev. F. Moggridge.  Maybe it was not such a brilliant idea to continue with the same horse however, as when they reached the steep hill down to Kington, it ran away again, kicking out violently.  The carriage overturned again, but thankfully both gentleman escaped with little more than severe bruises.

1858 Kinsham Bridge

The bridge at Kinsham had been in a dangerous state for some considerable time, and it was also felt that it had been built in entirely the wrong place as it was approached by a steep rocky road, instead of being built on the flatter side of the hill.  However, there was no prospect of moving the road, so there was no option but to rebuild the bridge in the same place.

The surveyor pressed for urgent action, and estimates were to be sought.

Later that year, the two tenders submitted were rejected and a Mr. Gray was requested to carry out the work to his own specifications – this he did to everyone’s satisfaction.

1864 Attempted Murder at Kinsham

Joseph Morris, was a former private in the 7th Hussars who deserted his regiment and became a gamekeeper in Eardisland.  He then went into the Radnorshire militia, and was eventually promoted to Corporal.

Desertion and subsequent Disgrace

Joseph married whilst in the militia, but soon afterwards was arrested for deserting his regiment some 15 years earlier and was forced to rejoin.  It was not long before he deserted again, and when caught he claimed that it was his wife’s fault for refusing to join him in York where the regiment was based.

Joseph was given punishment, but the regiment rather gave up on him and he was drummed out, whereupon he went back to his wife in Kinsham and started work on the Central Wales Railway.

Arguments, Accusations and a Shooting

When his wife had to look after her ailing mother, Joseph moved in with them, and maybe things became a little strained.  Certainly witnesses reported that they often rowed and sometimes even lived apart.  One evening they had a big argument about some money that Joseph’s wife accused him of stealing from her father and when he set off across the fields she followed him in order to get the money back.  On failing, she went back to the cottage.

Joseph eventually turned up again in the early evening, and he told his wife that she could have the money if she went for a walk with him, but she told him that the matter had been turned over to the police.  For some reason though she did go for a walk, and Joseph met up with her brandishing a gun.  She tried to grab it, but Joseph said that he wasn’t going to hurt her so she let go and went to get a drink from a stream…..as she bent over, he shot her.

Joseph Morris Disappears

At the very second he fired, she moved slightly and the shot merely grazed her head instead of going into her skull – it still tore all her hair, skin and muscle from the bone though, and she understandably screamed for all she was worth.

Mr. Tearne, the Union surgeon happened to be approaching to visit the sick mother, and rushed to her aid.  Joseph meanwhile had scarpered, but he returned later to beg his wife’s forgiveness – rather spoiling the effect by saying that if he still had a loaded gun he would have shot the doctor, which proved that he had been watching from behind the hedge – and then disappeared again.

In spite of lengthy searches, no trace of Joseph was found although he was suspected to be hiding in Thornbury, 20 miles away from Kinsham.

1851 – Brunel Advises on the Lea Tunnel

Mr. Brunel was asked how long it would take to build the Hereford, Ross and Gloucester Railway, and how works should proceed;   he recommended that the two tunnels, one at Lea between Grange and Ross, and the other at Ballingham between Ross and Hereford should be started first as they would take the most time to complete.

The land through which the Lea tunnel passed belonged to the Great Western Railway Company, who agreed to immediately let the work begin.

1853 – Lea Tunnel holds up Railway

The Hereford, Ross and Gloucester Railway construction was greatly held up by dreadful weather, but by far the biggest problem was the Lea tunnel.

In the immediate vicinity of Ross the line was nearly finished, but the Lea tunnel was completely flooded, and in spite of great efforts to get rid of the water it was gloomily predicted that the tunnel would not be finished for at least a year.

1854 – Lea Tunnel nearly finished

It was expected that the works on the Hereford, Ross and Gloucester Railway would be completed by early November in 1854.

At Lea tunnel all that remained to be done were 4 chains of arching which were due to be completed, along with the drain and ballasting, in two months.

The tunnel was nearly half a mile long.

1863 – First Attempt at a Harvest Home at Lea

A service was performed in St. John’s church at midday, with the church being well decorated with flowers and wheat and gratifyingly full of parishioners.

Afterwards, the congregation went to a nearby field lent by Mr. S. Day, in which had been erected a large tent.  Local gentry and farmers of the parish had clubbed together and provided a sumptious feast with roast and boiled beef;  mutton;  plum pudding and ale and cider.

Later the health of the Queen was toasted, and then many rustic sports including football, cricket, races (including one for women with buckets of water on their heads!), a pig hunt and other such fun.  All the while, women danced to the fiddle and harp and elderly men figured in reels.

Oddly, the race deemed the most exciting was between two old men with gammy legs run over 60 yards.  Apparently this was extremely funny!

1645 – The Civil War

During the Civil War, the local families of the Hoptons and the Kyrles favoured Parliament.

On 12th November 1645 – 60 of Scudamore’s Horse were chased through Ledbury by Major Hopton.

Battle of Ledbury

Battle of Ledbury: Prince Rupert fought and beat the Roundheads in a fierce skirmish. (Bullet holes from this battle can still be seen in the oak panelled dining room of the Talbot Hotel.)

1692 – There was a large fire in Ledbury.

1695 – The poor of Ledbury were provided with coal, or money, but in return were forced to wear a “bagge” (badge) which proclaimed “this signifieth that I am reduced to poverty”. Not wearing this badge meant no more money or coal!

1735 – Turnpike Riots.

Several turnpikes were destroyed, there was much violence and some rioters died.

Thomas Reynolds of Ledbury

Thomas Reynolds of Ledbury was executed at Tyburn, and a woman to whom he had shown kindness provided his shroud and coffin once he was cut down. Just before he was to be put in the ground, it was noticed that he was still breathing, and he was given brandy and bled by a surgeon (just what he needed after being hung!), but he died shortly after and was buried by the Oxford Road.

Cloth Making  and Tanning in Ledbury

Cloth making was an important trade, as was tanning with the tan pits being well supplied by the large woods surrounding Ledbury. The Workhouse inmates made pins, and the women of Ledbury made gloves in their own homes.

1824 – Dirty Ledbury

“The Homend in Ledbury from end to end was studded with 20 to 30 dung heaps on either side, the road covered in filth and the drains running on the surface. From the month of October to January, the noise occasioned by the killing of pigs in the High Street, and the danger to passengers from the fires for singeing them deterred travellers from passing through the town”.

By 1831  “the disagreeable practice of slaughtering pigs in the street” had been abolished.

1844 – Ledbury Shops Amend Closing Times

The drapers of Ledbury, along with those in other towns in Herefordshire, agreed to close at 7 in the evening, except for Tuesdays and Saturdays.

The public was asked not to bang on the doors after this time, and it was hoped that grocers and other shopkeepers would follow suit so that the shop assistants could have some sort of life in the evenings!

1844 – Canal Extends to Croom Pitch

The Herefordshire and Gloucestershire Canal was opened as far as Croom Pitch in January 1844, and immediately that place became a thriving trading place.

It was expected that within a few weeks the canal would be opened as far as Withington within 4 miles of Hereford, which would mean that Herefordians could become regular customers for Staffordshire coal, as well as availing themselves of an easy mode of transport for goods.

1844 – Disturbance in Ledbury

In April 1844, Ledbury residents were woken by shouts of “thieves, robbers……..assistance”, and rushed out fully expecting to discover Rebeccaites or Chartists.

One went armed with a large kitchen poker;  another with a broom, and a third described as being like a Waterloo hero, brandishing a sword and shouting “bring them to me and I’ll run them through”.

When the excitement died down, it was discovered that someone had tried to break into the warehouse of Mr. H. Symonds, a grocer in the High Street;  Mr. Hall, a glazier, whose house was close to Mr. Symonds,  had heard some sort of noise in the yard and gave the alarm, which led to the general panic as described!

The would be thieves had of course long gone, but Mr. Hall worked out that they would go up Church Lane and followed armed with a poker, whereupon he did indeed see one of the thieves, and managed to hit him.  Mr. S. Pedlington held him down, whilst a search was made in the Tanyard, where they found another man under a tan basket.  A third was eventually tracked down.

The three thieves were notorious young hooligans, aged only around 12 or 13, by the names of Hoare, Lane and Brydges.  Sadly there was not enough evidence to convict them of theft, but nevertheless Hoare and Lane were sent to prison for two months as rogues and vagabonds, whilst Brydges was lucky to be discharged.

1844 – Ledbury Butcher Outwitted

A certain butcher found a large dog in his shop, which had torn and spoiled the breasts of a calf which was hanging there.

After asking around, he discovered that the dog belonged to a professional gentleman who lived nearby, so off went the butcher to his house where he was asked in.

The butcher said that he had “come to have a little of his advice, if agreeable”.

The man replied, “quite agreeable, have the kindness to state your case”.

The butcher then proceeded to relate the tale of the dog, and the professional chap listened and then asked how much was the damage to the meat.

The reply was “four shillings and sixpence”, and the money was instantly paid.  The happy butcher walked away in triumph, but then heard a voice……. “Stop, you have to pay me six shillings and eightpence for my advice”

Imagine, reader, a sky all brightness and sunshine, and then think of its being suddenly overspread with clouds and darkness;  thus may you be able to form some idea of the transformation which came over the butcher’s face;  the knight of the cleaver walked away muttering unutterable things!

1845 – John Biddulp Interred in Ledbury Church

John Biddulph’s coffin was placed amongst his ancestors in the family vault in Ledbury church after a simple funeral.

He was remembered as a rich but very good man, who would be dreadfully missed by many including the poor of the town who had lost one of their greatest friends and benefactors.

Most of the shops and houses in Ledbury closed their shutters, and a feeling of genuine grief engulfed the town.

1845 – Child burnt to Death in Workhouse

Thomas Saunders, a young boy and inmate of the Ledbury Union Workhouse, was burnt to death when his clothes caught fire.

1847 – Ledbury gets Gas Lights

On the first Sunday in January 1847 the newly installed gas lights in Ledbury were lit for the first time:

“The town changed from heaviness and gloom to cheerfulness and light.  The event was hailed by feelings of unanimous joy throughout the whole of the town, and notwithstanding the sacredness of  the day, the bells commenced their gayest notes immediately on the completion of the illumination”

This new lighting was considered to be the first step in the improvement of Ledbury, however in 1862 the lights were no longer being lit due to a disagreement between the inspectors.

The suggestion of a rate was not well received, but three men, nameley G. Masefield, V. Barber and R. Edy formed a committe for canvassing Ledbury for subscriptions for lighting the lamps, of which there were 40, from early September to the beginning of December, when a rate would be made.

The amount needed was £37, and the committee were confident that the money would be quickly raised, by which time it was hoped that the rows that caused the darkness in Ledbury would have blown over.

1854 – Mail Cart from Ledbury to Hereford

The discontinuation of the London Mail coach from Hereford to Ledbury caused a great deal of inconvenience, and efforts were being made to establish a new Mail Cart to go From Ledbury to Hereford each morning, returning each evening.

1857 – Ledbury Market Hall Crumbling

Ledbury Market Hall was so dilapidated that it was in danger of falling down, but only £62 of the £250 needed had been raised.  An appeal was sent out to the 16,000 people in and around the Ledbury area.

1857 – Small Pox in Ledbury

Small Pox was very prevalent in 1857 in Ledbury and the surrounding area.  The Guardians set about putting up large posters to inform people of the free vaccination available.

1857 – Man Suffocates on Canal Boat at Ledbury

Alfred Dowling, aged around 16, was working for William Greenway the owner of a canal boat.

One evening after rather a lot to drink, Alfred lit a fire in the fore deck of his master’s boat which was lying in the canal near to Bye Street bridge, Ledbury.  The warmth from the fire plus the effects of drink soon sent him to sleep, and during the night someone closed the hatchway lid, confining the poor chap to a tiny unventilated space.

When the hatchway was opened next morning, Alfred was still alive…….just, but in spite of attentions from a surgeon, he died shortly afterwards.

1858 – The Railway Line at Ledbury Progresses

The works on the railway line near to Homend turnpike, Ledbury were progressing well with more than 80 men being employed.

The ballast had been made for some distance, the the considerable hight of the embankment could clearly be seen from the Hereford road.

1859 – The Railway Works at Ledbury

Contractors of the Worcester and Hereford Railway were working as fast as they could;  sheds and shopping for the use of masons, smiths etc. were being built next to the canal and adjoining the railway works, whilst huge machinery for making mortar etc. was being brought in.

A great many men were being employed on the building of the railway, and it was thought that work on the “monster viaducts” would soon commence.

1861 – The Ledbury Railway Tunnel Opens

An engine went through the tunnel for the first time, gaily decorated with flags and people from Ledbury along with the contractors, happily celbrated the event with copious amounts of sherry!

However, although the engine went through the tunnel very carefully and slowly, the two front wheels came off the line,  (trains to this day have to be extremely cautious when negotiating this tunnel), but as there were so many workmen around they soon had it back on the tracks.  The engine worked thereafter, taking soil from the Eastnor end of the tunnel to the viaduct at Ledbury.

In the same week, part of the Colwall Tunnel fell in, burying several men who were bricking part of the tunnel at No. 3 shaft.  Two men were dug out alive, but it was thought that another man was dead.

1863 – Railway Accident at Ledbury

One of the trucks of a goods train running from Hereford to Lebury, came off the rails at the Bush Pitch cutting by the viaduct, and was dragged for a distance until the driver stopped the train.  He uncoupled the truck and attaching it separately to the engine, took it into Ledbury station yard, leaving the rest of the train on the track near to the viaduct.

Meanwhile, at Ashperton station, Mr. Makepeace neglected to stop another train even though he had not received the signal of “line clear” from Ledbury, and this train approached the stationary trucks at the viaduct with great speed.  The driver, Mr. Bridgeman saw the trucks at the last minute, and shutting off the steam, reversed the engine then jumped off onto the embankment as did the stoker and guard – thankfully none of them were hurt.

A terrible crash then took place, with the engine being wrecked as well as the guard’s van and four or five trucks.  The line was torn up for two or three lengths of metal and the cost of the crash was estimated at between £600 and £700 pounds.

1860 – New Cemetery in |Ledbury

Messrs. McCann and Averal, builders from Great Malvern had their tender accepted for the erection of chapels and a sexton’s residence at this cemetery, and the Ledbury Burial Board requested that work should be commenced immediately.

1862 – Freemasonry in Ledbury

Freemasonry was making much progress in Herefordshire, and Lodges had been established in Hereford, Ross, Leominster and Ledbury, and were progressing very satisfactorily.

The brethren were getting reading to celebrate the centenary anniversary of the Hereford Palladian Lodge in October.

In Brief:

During the nineteenth century there were five coopers; four tanners; six maltsters; three curriers; ten boot makers, one portrait painter and seven schools.

1833 – Serious Fire at Leintwardine

Mr. Harris, a butcher of Leintwardine, had left home to travel to Rhayader fair, taking all of his ready cash with him, which turned out to be most fortunate.

Whilst he was away, one of his servants had to give a drench to a cow, and put a lit candle on the floor so that he could see what he was doing.  Unfortunately, the candle set fire to the straw and before help could be procured, the whole premises including the house were consumed by the flames.  Fortunately, although with great difficulty, Mrs. Harris and other inmates were removed to safety.

1846 – Gun Accident in Leintwardine

William Meyrick was a servant to Mr. Evans of Copball, and had been given a gun in order to scare off the crows from the crops.

A witness by the name of Thomas Morris saw William in the field with the gun, and he was leaning on the muzzle end.  Not long afterwards, he heard a bang, and on investigating found William with a wound under his arm which he could see involved his left lung.  William apparently said that he had put three or four pebbles in the gun and it had accidentally gone off as he was leaning on it.

He died a few days later.

1851 – Child Burnt to Death at Leintwardine

This is representative of the horrific number of similar cases for every town and village.

Ann Catstree, an infant child, was left alone in the house when her clothing caught fire.  She died shortly afterwards.

1860 – Woman Dies after using Tallow as a Lip Balm

The eldest daughter of Edward Meredith of Mock-tree Lime Works in Leintwardine, found that she had very cracked lips after being out in the wind one day, so thought that she would use a white tallow candle to ease them.

Shortly afterwards, her lips began to swell up, and although two doctors attended to her it was to no avail and her lips got bigger and bigger until she was in agony.  She died two days later, and it was supposed that the candle tallow contained something poisonous, or that the fat used had decomposed.

1862 – Leintwardine Temperance Movement

The temperance cause in Leintwardine was very popular and the society flourished.

People were happy to see the reclamation of drunkards who were pests in the area, and even those who were not happy with teetotalism were kindly disposed when seeing these beneficial results.

A meeting of the Leintwarding Temperance Society which took place in August was voted a complete success, beginning with Mr. Blackmore’s brass band arriving in the village, and they were joined by various adults bearing flags and banners.

Eventually they arrived at the house of W. Mason of Seedly House where a big tent had been erected and decorated with flowers and mottoes teaching the “evil of strong drinks”.

Hundreds of people had a jolly good tea with plum cake.

(Not sure that there is much sign of temperance in Herefordshire these days!)

1862 –  Children and Axes do not Mix

The wife of labourer Thomas Lewis of Leinwardine had been chopping sticks, and then left the house leaving the axe on the floor in view of her two children ages three  and one and a half.

Whilst she was away, the older child picked up the axe and managed to chop of the fore finger of the toddler’s hand, also very nearly severing the other three fingers.

The poor child was treated by T. Jackman esq., the local surgeon, and progressed well.

1841 – Leominster Infant School

The infant and juvenile school for the “labouring classes” of Eaton, Hennor, and Stretford in the parish of Leominster, and Kimbolton and Stoke Prior adjoining, is progressing well.

As well as donations already received, the funds for this school were greatly swelled by very generous donations from John Arkwright of Hampton Court Castle, and the Hon. Harley Rodney.

1843 – Fire in Rick Yard

Superintendent McCrohin at Leominster Police Station was alterted to a fire in a rick yard at the Far-end, Monkland, owned by Mr. Sheward.

Two fire engines were rapidly dispatched along with some policemen, and on arrival they found three large hay ricks well ablaze.  Several “country persons” were trying to put out the flames, but it was apparent that they were roaring drunk, and their efforts were less than helpful!  However, many helpers arrived from Leominster and by cutting and carrying the burning hay away, they managed eventually to put out the fire, but it took some considerable time and hard work.

Mr. Sheward sent a cart load of refreshments from Stagbach in gratitude to the policemen and helpers from Leominster, as well as the firemen – who did not get back to Leominster until well after midnight.

This was the third fire in the area, and the cause in each case was the hay being too green when stacked.

1846 – Sale of Leominster Canal Navigation

In July 1846, a special meeting of the company of proprietors of the Leominster Canal Navigation was held at the Royal Oak, and attendance was excellent.

They were considering an offer made by the Herefordshire and Shrewsbury Railway Company to purchase the canal and property owned by the company, and eventually they agreed on the sale of the canal to the railway company for £12,000.

However, there were difficulties, and over ten years later things were still not settled:

The Hereford Journal reported –

“The Leominster Canal Navigation company sought by their bill to compel a specific performance by the defendants, the Shrewsbury and Hereford Railway Company, of an agreement for the purchase of the Leominster canal, and payment by them of the purchase money, £12,000 with interest.”

It went on to say that in 1846 the railway company proposed, through their solicitors, to buy the canal with certain conditions;  the proposal was accepted and by mutual agreement an application was made to Parliament to obtain an Act to enable them to sell, and authorising the railway company to purchase, the canal.

A problem then arose because the Leominster Canal Navigation Company only had the lease of the property for 40 years, but on 26th August 1854 a letter was sent to them by the defendants’ solicitors, saying that they still wanted to buy, but would have to wait until they had sold some shares at the right price.

Nothing happened.

To be continued when I find out a bit more!

1849 – Cholera in Leominster

The family of John Morris, a labourer, had been living in Wolverhampton where there was an epidemic of Cholera.  In fear for their lives, they moved to Leominster.

Shortly afterwards, the ten year old son of John developed diarrhoea which progressed to “rice water evacuations” and other clear symptoms of cholera, and although he seemed to rally briefly, he died a couple of days later.  Other members of the family also developed diarrhoea but recovered.

It was reported that extensive cleaning operations were carried out in Leominster, and the house where the family lived had been cleansed and whitewashed.

1850 – First Sewer for Leominster

The commissioners were due huge gratitude from the inhabitants of Leominster for starting work on a sewer which would carry away the stagnant water and decomposing matter from the streets.

Many areas of the town were filthy and rank with decomposition etc., and the new sewer would go a long way in preventing the diseases which came from such conditions.

1853 – Accident on Railway line near Leominster

Mr. Walter Bartlett of the railway office, Leominster, was surveying the works in progress on the new line;  near to Wharton a couple of miles from Leominster there was an engine and tender, and Walter decided to step up on to the engine.

Unfortunately, a heavy frost had made the metal slippery and his leg went from under him and beneath the wheel of the engine, which was still moving.  His leg was badly crushed between the ankle and knee, and he was bleeding copiously.  A surveyor in charge of the train immediately found a piece of string and tied it around Walter’s leg below the knee to stop the bleeding, and then they put him on the tender and took him to Leominster station.

His leg was immediately amputated by H.W. Watling and he was fortunate to recover.

1857 – Leominster and Kington Railway

It was announced by telegraph from an official of the company, that the Leominster and Kington Railway would definitely be opened for passenger and general traffic on Thursday 27th August 1857.

1858 – Butchers offer Rotten Meat in Leominster

Police descended on Leominster butchers to seize large quantities of “unwholesome” meat, which caused a great sensation in the town.

All the condemned meat was piled in the Corn Square, and publicly burnt – the resulting disgusting smell drove customers out of the nearby pubs!

1859 – Leominster Folk Sign the Pledge

There was a huge revival in interest in total abstinence in Leominster, and following lectures from Mr. Gough and Mr. Samuel Bowley, 71 people signed the pledge.

A further meeting took place (where attendees were fortified with tea), to which at least 400 people flocked to hear Henry Newman, the Rev. Henry Cooper of Stoke Prior,  Mr. Nash, and Mr. Walsh from Bromyard.

Enthusiasm for the movement was huge, and since the meeting more and more people signed the pledge.

1909 – Suicide at Leysters

George Henry Reynolds was a 19 year old labourer living at Leysters and in the employ of farmer Robert Mercer.

George came from Liverpool, and had been a bad lad and was in a reformatory school before going to work for the farmer, but  he was unhappy about having to fund his brother who was still in the reformatory;  those who knew him thought that he was a “strange tempered” chap.

One day George was found with a gunshot would, which initially appeared to be the result of an accident, but just before he died he confessed to the doctor treating him that it was an intentional act.

At the inquest the jury returned a verdict of suicide whilst of unsound mind

1852 – Accidents with Guns at Lingen

In September 1852, Thomas Brown of Lingen was out with his gun and dog near Limebrook Mills;  he had wounded a bird and was searching the hedgerow looking for it.

Unfortunately, his method of searching involved the risky business of knocking brambles and brushwood aside with the butt of his gun, and evenually one of the barrels exploded resulting in shot going into his thigh and setting his smalls on fire!

Someone who was with him at the time sent for Mr. E. Tearn, a surgeon of Presteign, who did everything that he could for Thomas, but sadly infection set in and he died a week later leaving a widow and child.

In the same week, a young man by the name of Alexander McCoy who was a hawker by trade, was wandering along the road when suddenly he was shot in the head and face.

Two men had been shooting birds in an adjoining turnip field, and had totally disregarded the safety of anyone passing by on the public road.  When alerted by the cries of Alexander, they found that he had been hit over the eye and near the left temple, as well as next to his ear.  With considerable difficulty they managed to remove many of the bits of shot, and then they poured some rum that they happened to have with them over the wounds.

Alexander carried on to Presteign, where the surgeon, Mr. Adney, took out the remaining shot and applied poultices to the wounds.  Luckily he survived.

1899 – Marriage of the Vicar of Lingen

In August 1899, the Rev. Charles Leonard Edwards M.A. married Maud Renee Lavinia Rosenbush, daughter of Theordore Rosenbush, at Lingen Hall.

Although Maud was not known to Lingen residents, she had quickly won their hearts with her kindness and winsome manners, and on her wedding day thoughtfully drove in an open carriage through the village.

She wore a cream Bengaline silk dress with train, and the bodice was trimmed with ruched chiffon and pearls.  Her veil was worn over sprays of orange blossom, and her bouquet was made up of pale yellow roses.

The bridesmaids, Miss Lilian Edwards and Miss Edith Chapman were dressed in white muslin, with an insertion of lace over green silk.  The bodices were cross tucked muslin, and finished with green chiffon sashes;  their hats were of burnt straw and green chiffon with pin roses, and they carried bouquets of red and pink roses which were the gift of the bridegroom who also gave them pearl crescent brooches.

Two nephews of the bridegroom, the Masters Shaw, followed in white sailor suits.

1844 – The Dangers of Alcohol

James Hyde of Linton was a married man with children;  he had gone into Bromyard one morning with a sovereign and commenced drinking.  He carried on imbibing throughout the day, until at around midnight he staggered his way towards home.

He was spotted standing near a meadow gate in the early hours of the morning, and then later that day his body was found almost upright in the River Frome.  It appeared from marks on the bank that he had fallen asleep, but then rolled into the water.

1862 – Well Sinkers Drown

Two well sinkers, Richard Wall aged 27 with a wife and family, and William Gibbons aged 30 and unmarried, were working on a well at Linton.

As Richard managed to drop his hat down the well, and went down to retrieve it but the rope to which he was attached, broke, and he fell to the bottom.  The well contained several feet of water, and from the surface of the water to the top was about 35 feet.

William immediately rushed to rescue his fellow worker, but didn’t think it through and once he too was at the bottom there was no way up for either of them!  Nobody it seems heard that cries for help, and both were drowned.

1862 – Child Poisoned at Home

Thomas Bullock, a child of Eliza and Richard Bullock of Linton, died after drinking poison at home in March 1862.

Eliza said that she had bought some aquafortis and quicksilver (aquafortis being essentially nitric acid), and that she kept it on the dairy windowsill in an open bottle.   She had told her children never to touch it because it was poison, however one day her husband Richard moved it to an open bin.  It was obviously nearly empty, because Eliza had asked her daughter Mary to fill it with water so that it could be cleaned.

That same day, Eliza was sitting working on a glove, when little Thomas and his blind brother John Francis asked if they could fetch some of their father’s cider.  She told them “NO”, but it seems they ignored her and went anyway.

A short time later, Eliza’s youngest daughter Mary came to her and told her that John was drinking the cider, so she immediately ran to see what was going on and found Thomas choking.  It transpired that he had drunk from the poison bottle, and in spite of the immediate calling of a Dr. Owen, Thomas died before medical attention could be given.

The Coroner, Thomas Lanwarne, chastised the Bullocks for leaving the poison within reach of the children.

1845 – Yet Another Child Burnt to Death

Mary Addis, a girl of 13 was burnt to death when her clothes caught fire whilst nursing her Aunt’s child who was away gathering wood.

Mary was so conscious of being in charge of the baby that in spite of being dreadfully badly burnt over the whole of her body except her feet which were protected by her boots, she still managed to take it to a neighbour before dying.

Very sadly, her younger brother had burnt to death just three months previously, which provoked a sermon from the coroner on how children should be left alone.

First, he recommended wool clothes  instead of cotton or linen, as wool ignited less easily, but he also said that children should either be locked outside of the house, or tied securely to the table or dresser well away from the fire.

We may well feel horrified by his suggestions, but the papers in the 19th century are littered with reports of children burning to death when left alone in the house, and the coroner in this case regularly had to deal with five or six in one week.

1850 – Assault on Man and Pig

George Townsend, a labourer of Little Birch, charged James Powell, toll collector at Wye-bridge gate with having assaulted him.

George Townsend had purchased a pig and was taking it through the turnpike when he realised that he didn’t have the right change, a halfpenny, to pay the toll.  He told James Powell that he would pop into a nearby pub so that he could obtain the change, and began to drag the pig along the road, it being reluctant to go the way he wanted it to go.

James chased after him and grabbed the pig, and a scuffle ensued whereby onlookers feared that the pig would be pulled in half, as neither man was willing to let go.

Eventually, in temper, James kicked the poor pig then thumped George around the head, and a witness hastened to pay the toll for George before either pig or man was seriously hurt.

It seems that this was not the first time that James Powell had been complained about, and the Bench told him to mend his ways, whilst fining him 1s plus costs which amounted to 10s.

1854 – Child Dies after taking  Poison

Mrs. Cook of Little Birch had been forced to stay in bed for weeks after contracting T.B., or consumption and had been prescribed some medicine which contained morphine.

One day, one of her two children, a five year old boy, took two spoonsful of the medicine and although he ate his supper and went to bed as usual, later in the night his father heard a loud rattling noise from the lad’s throat.

The noise continued until late the next morning when the poor boy slipped into unconsciousness and died.

At the inquest, John Morris the surgeon who was looking after the lad’s mother, said that he had examined the body and found the bowels to be distended and green with decomposition.  The boy’s general appearance was consistent with someone who had been poisoned and cause of death was given as this, as two spoonsful of the medicine he had taken would be more than enough to kill a young child.

1854 – Fire destroys Rose Cottage

In May 1854, the chimney at Rose Cottage, Little Birch, caught fire and as much of the building was thatched the sparks quickly caused the fire to spread until the entire house was completely burnt out.

Mr. Cranston of King’s Acre, the proprietor of the cottage, was very grateful to all the kind neighbours who worked tirelessly to save most of the furniture and adjoining buildings.

1899 – Little Birch School Concert

In May 1899 the children of Little Birch School put on some splendid entertainment for a very appreciative audience.

One of the stars of the show was John Yapp, aged 10, who was “chief comedian” for the evening.

There was also a musical sketch, and a play given by the youngest members of the school, as well as a “nigger burlesque” (don’t have a go at me – that was the wording of the report!) 

Miss Southey filled in the gaps with piano solos, and the Little Birch handbell ringers played a lovely selection on their bells.

1842 – Killed whilst Making Cider

Edward Fowler aged 18 was making cider in Little Cowarne when his frock became entangled in the axletree of the mill.

He died almost immediately.

1861 – Heartwarming Devotion of a Dog

A young man called Thomas Edwards from Little Cowarne was taken to court for being drunk and incapable.

When he was found Thomas was nearly frozen to death; it took a bit of care in order to restore him to normality;  all the while, his scottish sheep dog refused to leave his side, showing great distress when Thomas was unconscious and licking his face and hands frantically.

When Thomas came round and was deemed to have recovered, he was locked in a cell for the night, but nobody could persuade the dog to leave his post outside the door.  Eventually the police took pity on him and let him in with his master, where he settled down happily.

Even in court, this faithful and determined dog would not leave Thomas’ side and the police did nothing to prevent him entering the dock where Thomas stood dressed respectably.

Everyone heaved a sigh of relief when the Magistrates allowed Thomas and his dog to go on their way without so much as a fine, never mind the separation of such close friends.

1863 – Horrid Bursting of Varicose Vein

In November 1863, Thomas Roberts, a fit and healthy young unmarried man, was working for Mr. Went at Little Cowarne Mill and was lifting a sack of flour when a varicose vein in his leg burst.

Before very long he collapsed, and although people tried to stem the profuse flow of blood, the rupture enlarged and Thomas bled to death before proper aid could arrive.

1899 – Strange Death of Granny and Grandchild

Gladys May Skerrett Gurney, aged 6, was being brought up by her elderly grandparents at Little Cowarne.  She was the illegitimate child of Fanny Gurney.

One day, one of Gladys’ uncles found a rabbit in a snare and took it home where it was cooked, and everyone except for this uncle ate it at dinner.  Immediately, both Mr. and Mrs. Gurney and Gladys became very ill, with violent stomach pains, and by the following morning Gladys was dead.

Dr. Lewis was summoned and his post mortem showed that her tummy was very inflamed, supposedly from poison, but although the house was thoroughly searched no trace of poison could be found.

It was therefore assumed that the rabbit must have either eaten poisoned food, or had been filled with poison with the intention of killing a fox.

Shortly after the inquest, the grandmother, Mrs. Gurney, died, and at the time of the report Mr. Gurney was not expected to survive.

1838 – Transported for Sheep Stealing

John Stringer, a shoemaker, and Thomas Jones a flax dresser, stole a ram from Richard Garrold of Little Dewchurch.

Shortly after the theft was discovered John Stringer’s house was searched and a large amount of mutton was discovered – he had no choice but to confess his crime.

Thomas Jones had been convicted of felony before in 1823, and because sheep stealing was very much on the increase the Chairman of the bench decided to make an example of the two men.

John Stringer was sentenced to be transported for ten years, and Thomas Jones for fourteen.

1848 – Another transportation for Sheep Stealing

A married,  illiterate 53 year old man by the name of Thomas Whitcombe was charged with stealing one sheep at Little Dewchurch from Richard Osborne Garrold.

He admitted his guilt and was transported for seven years.

1845 – Child Dies after Swallowing Matches

Two year old Mary Ann Granger, of Little Dewchurch, was alone in her parents’ bedroom when she found some matches and swallowed some of them.

The matches were made of phosphorus, which were dangerous for two reasons – one because they were easily lit by accident, and the other because they were poisonous.

Some hours later, Mary became ill, and Mr. Morris, a surgeon from Dry-bridge was called in.  He tried everything he could think of, but the little girl died the next day.

At the inquest, the verdict was accidental death, and a warning was given that phosporus matches should be kept in a tin box, and well out of reach of children or “careless persons”.

1853 – The Rev Kyrle Money

It was announced at the beginning of November 1853 that the Rev. Kyrle Money had no choice but to resign the perpetual curacy of Little Dewchurch and Hentland due to ill health.

1857 – Russian War Casualty from Little Dewchurch

John Jeffreys  of Little Dewchurch was a private in the Queen’s Guards and fought at Balaclava, Inkermann and Sebastopol.

He died in the trenches.

1863 – Drunk from Little Dewchurch

Thomas Preece, a 16 year old lad from Little Dewchurch became drunk one night, and caused a bit of a nuisance in Gwynne Street.

The policeman who went to investigate the noise at around half past one in the morning, found Thomas to be very drunk, but before he could arrest him, Thomas pretended to have a fit.  He put on such a convincing performance that the plod went for a stretcher, but when he came back Thomas had got up and legged it over the bridge where he was standing stripped and ready to fight.

Indeed, fight he did and he put the policeman on the floor twice.

In court, he was fined 5s plus costs.

1899 – Scarlet Fever at Little Dewchurch

The Deputy Medical Officer of Health, Mr. H.C. Moore, reported that a house in Little Dewchurch which had suffered an outbreak of Scarlet Fever, had experienced more cases.

1899 – Missing Man Returns to Little Dewchurch

Isaac Davies a 60 year old man from New. Tredegar South Wales, was a married man who had recently lost his job as a Clerk.

Isaac and his wife decided to take a short holiday in Little Dewchurch with relatives, but when he set off on horseback to Hereford to pick up a bottle of medicine his wife awaited his return in vain.

Some days later, Isaac turned up back in Little Dewchurch but in a very agitated and distressed state of mind, with his new breeches torn at the knees.

He said that he was lost in a wood with a high hedge round it and had to wait for a man to come to cut it;  he had been seen on the highway at Sellack with an armful of hay which he said he was taking to his horse.  However the horse was found at Hoarwithy tied up and alone.

Isaac’s wife took him back to New Tredegar where she took care of him;  it does sound as if he had rather lost his mind after the shock and upset of losing his job.

1849 – Small boys become Arsonists

William Farley and George Farley of Little Marcle were charged with setting fire to a hayrick belonging to S.G. Birchley.

Several witnesses had spotted the small boys near the hayrick, including Thomas Adams the keeper of the turnpike gate at Little Marcle but when Superintendant Shead went to question the boys, they tried to blame tramps.  Their story was quickly pulled apart and eventually admitted to lighting a match but said that they didn’t think the hay would catch fire.

George Farley was eventually discharged but William Farley was committed for trial.

1851 – “Would you, John???)

A wedding at Little Marcle?

On 3rd February 1851 a couple presented themselves at the altar of Little Marcle parish church in order to get married.  No names were reported, because it wasn’t deemed fair given what followed!

The ceremony went swimmingly until the bridegroom was asked if he would have the woman for his wedded wife……..he hesitated, for quite a long time, until the clergyman was forced to ask the question again.

No Wedding at Little Marcle

His bride to be whispered “say….I Will”, whereupon the chap replied “no thank you sir”, and turning to the Clerk he added “would you, John?!”

John said no he wouldn’t, he already had one and didn’t want another.

The bridegroom not to be stepped away from the altar followed by his disgruntled intended who shook her purse at him saying that she would give him his money back if he married her.

It was no good, and the chap bitterly remarked that if she had robbed him before marriage, she would do so after.

1856 – Blind Mare Causes Accident

Richard Gurney aged 35 was working for Mr. Holland a farmer of Little Marcle.

One day he was returning from the Forest of Dean with a team of six horses, including one blind mare, pulling a wagon loaded with six tons of fuel.  He was nearly home, when the poor mare panicked and knocked Richard over before trampling on him.

Before the team could be stopped, the wheels of the wagon went over Richard’s legs causing double fractures of the thigh and appalling knee injuries.

He was taken to Hereford Infirmary where every effort was made to help him, but gangrene set in and he died a couple of days later.

1857 – Goring by a Bull at Little Marcle

Joseph Popnell, a married man with five children, was working for Mr. Firkins of Little Marcle Court.

One night in May 1857, he had to sit up all night, along with another man, to look after a cow that was due to calve.  At some time in the night, a bull broke into the fold, and he was driven back to his stable with some considerable difficulty.

Joseph went into the stable after the bull, intending to tie him up, but the bull turned on him and knocked him down before goring him time and again.  There were many terrible wounds on his head and legs, but it was a puncture wound to his chest which killed him.  The horn of the bull had torn the muscles apart and severely damaged the pleura.

Joseph died shortly after the attack.

1861 – Harvest Festival at Little Marcle

On 3rd October 1861, to celebrate the safe gathering in of the harvest, the farmers in the area of Little Marcle gave all their workmen a holiday.

The day started with prayers in the beautifully decorated church, after which the labourers and their wives were given a feast of roast beef and plum pudding by several farm houses.  Later they all went to the Rectory for games including football.

Suitably worn out, everyone was then given tea and cake in the new schoolroom served by the ladies of the party.

The weather was lovely, and everyone agreed that “never was a happier day spent in Little Marcle before”.

1873 – Steam Engine Boiler Explodes

Mr. Charles South of Lillians, Little Marcle was preparing for wheat thrashing with an engine and thrashing machine.

The water in the engine was boiling and thrashing began, but ten minutes later the boiler of the engine burst, causing the engine to be thrown onto the thrashing machine.  A fire ensued;  a spanner was fired through the window of the house some fifteen yards away, and many other windows burst inwards.

Incredibly, Charles South and the engine driver who were both close to the engine escaped injury.

Fire engines from Ledbury and Eastnor Castle attended and quickly put out the fire, but not before one large wheat rick was destroyed.

1844 – Wagon Accident at Llandinabo

John Price, a workman employed by Mr. Lane, was taking a barrel of water down a lane on a wagon drawn by a mare.

The horse shied at something and knocked John over, and immediately the wheels of the wagon went over him.  There were bruises on his temples, and his stomach and blood was pouring from his mouth.

He was taken to a nearby cottage, but died within minutes.

1855 – Mindless Vandalism Near Llandinabo

In February, just before dawn on a Sunday, the Hereford-Gloucester mail coach was en route and was just outside Llandinabo when it had a very narrow escape.

Some idiots with no thought for the safety of horses or people, had laid three field gates at intervals across the road, and in the dark the horses fell over the first one and became entangled.  Fortunately they were none the worse for wear, and by the time that the mail coach set off again the coachman was able to see the subsequent two gates in time to stop.

1862 – Fire at Llandinabo

One night in late December, people in Hereford could clearly see the reflection of a huge fire from the direction of Llandinabo and the city police, expecting at any minute to hear that the fire engines would be required, collected the fire brigade and got everything ready, including harnessing the horses to the engines.

They waited and waited – from midnight until 3 in the morning, but no messenger arrived so they unharnessed the horses and everyone went home.

Apparently the fire was on the farm of Mr. Bosanquet at Llandinabo, and was supposed to have started when sparks from a boiler fire set fire to something in the outbuilding.  Ricks, stacks, outbuildings and many animals were destroyed.

I wonder why he didn’t call for the fire brigade.

1864 – Refusal to Obey Affiliation Order

Thomas Andrews of Llandinabo was sentenced to two months hard labour for disobeying an order of the Justices to contribute to the support of Hannah Seaborne’s child.

Thomas admitted liability to the extent of £2 5s 6d for arrears and costs.

1867 – Nuptual Festivities at Llandinabo

It was pleasing to read of this happy event, because ten years earlier the bridegroom William Matthews had a fit whilst driving his gig home from Hereford, and fell onto the road, badly damaging his head.

In November 1867 one of the principal inhabitants of Llandinabo, William Matthews of Whitewell Cottage  married Miss Sier, the only daughter of Joseph Sier of Llanwarne.

William was part of an old established family of timber merchants, who had grown exceptional wealth – a feat that they partly put down to treating their employees well.

The church was full for the wedding, mostly with family and friends but also employees of the two families; after the ceremony the wedding breakfast was served in a huge marquee, and then the happy couple set off to Cheltenham for their honeymoon, being showered with old shoes as was the practice at the time.

1899 – Proposed Fund Raising for Restoration of Llangarron Church

A meeting was held in July to discuss fund raising for the restoration of the interior of the lovely old parish church.

It was hoped that a Fancy Fete and Bazaar would raise some money to help with the work, and it was decided that an architect would be consulted as to what actually needed to be done.

1850 – Severe Thunder Storm over Llangrove

At the end of July 1850, a huge thunder storm broke over the area around Llangrove, and one family had a very narrow escape.

John Pritchard and his family were inside their house, Tre-tawdy, Llangrove Common, and he was sitting next to the fire holding one of his young children.  A lightning bolt shot down the chimney, shattering the mantelpiece and going through the room past several children before disappearing out of the, fortunately open, door.

John’s wife who was walking across the room at the time felt a severe blow to her arm, and ended up with a livid scar such as one might receive from a whip.

A large flat iron was picked up from the fire place and whirled around John and his child without doing any injury, but the fender was broken and a brass candlestick was hurled (undamaged) three yards to the windowsill.

1863 – Earthquake felt at Llangrove

On 6th Occtober 1863, at 3.20 a.m., the whole of Herefordshire experienced an earthquake which was remarkably similar to a previous one which occurred on 9th November 1852.

They both happened in the early hours of the morning, and both were accompanied by thunderstorms and unseasonably warm weather.  However, unlike the earthquake of 1852, this one didn’t cause deaths or major destruction.

In Llangrove, residents were awoken by a terrific noise, and people felt their beds shaking – one woman sitting in her kitchen heard a tremendous rattling of the door and table, and others were so alarmed that they ran into the street to see what was going on.

1850 – Highway Robbery at Llangua

A land agent by the name of W.H. Apperley was on his way back to Hereford, alone in his gig, when at Llangua he was stopped by three men on a part of the road just above the river.

Mr. Apperley saw the men and guessed their intentions so began to whip his horse, and continued to do so even when one of the men grabbed hold of the reins, with the result that the gig ended up against the hedge on the river side of the road.

The Robbery

The other two men joined the first, and Mr. Apperley realised that he was outnumbered, so jumped from the gig over a fence above the river, and immediately afterwards he heard the horse and gig roll over behind him.  He ran for help, and found three men in a nearby cottage who immediately ran back with him……they found the horse and gig near the river’s edge, with the driving box broken open.  As the box only contained papers, they had been thrown down, as was the lamp box;  the only thing they took away was a letter case in which were some tracings of maps, land valuations, a rent book and six French coins!  All these things were of course worthless to the robbers, and were later found strewn in a field half a mile away.

Thankfully the horse was absolutely fine, as was the gig and harness

Mr. Apperley sent a message to Abergavenny police then carried on to Hereford, ruing the fact that on the only occasion he neglected to take his six barrel pistol with him, he should be accosted.

The description of the robbers

One had on a long dark coat down to his heels;  black hat;  sandy hair and whiskers, and was about 5 foot 10 inches.

Another was short and stout, and looked like a navigator, dressed in blue striped frock and cap, and was around 5 foot 7 inches.

The third man was roughly the same build with the appearance of a collier, and had on a long flannel frock.

1856 – Flooding damages Llangua Bridge

After heavy rains, floods removed part of Llangua Bridge on the Monmouthshire side of the river, and carried away the pitching;  they also made a hole seven feet deep under the arch on the Herefordshire side of the river.

A few months later it was stated that the Herefordshire side of the bridge had been repaired, but the the rest of the bridge on the Monmouthshire side was in a precarious state.  The fear was that unless repairs were promptly carried out, the bridge would be totally swept away with the next flood, causing huge unnecessary expense to Herefordshire.

Monmouthshire claimed that the Herefordshire side was in nearly as bad condition as their side, and they wanted both counties to join forces in building a whole new bridge.  The argument raged, with Herefordshire saying that their side was in perfectly good order thank you very much.

Eventually, Monmouthshire caved in and agreed to repair their side of the existing bridge.

1798 – Elopement

Mary Howells, wife of Howell Howells a carpenter of Llanveynoe, eloped from her husband without “any just cause or provocation”.

A notice was posted in the Hereford Journal to say that “no person or persons will give credit to the said Mary Howell, as her husband will not pay any debt or debts that she may contract from the date hereof.

Dated this 30th day of May 1798″

1855 – Labourer Breaks Back at Llanwarne

In September 1855, John Gough a 65 year old labourer working for J. Digwood of Upper House farm in Llanwarne, was thatching a wheat rick.

He was reaching for a handful of straw from a bolting which was above him on the rick, when part of the ladder that he was standing on broke, and he fell to the ground.

Although he was given every attention at Hereford Infirmary, it was discovered that he was completely paralysed due to a broken back, and after suffering horrendous pain in his head and difficulty in breathing, he died two days later.

1863 – Horrible Accident at Llanwarne

In April 1863, William Prosser was taking a threshing machine to Mr. Barratt’s farm at Llanwarne when one of the horses kicked him.

He fell, and the machine went straight over him, crushing his chest and abdomen.

William was in dreadful pain, and was taken to Hereford Infirmary where in spite of all efforts, he was not expected to survive.

1863 – Accident during Restoration of Llanwarne Church

In September 1863, whilst restoration work was going on at the old church in Llanwarne, part of the scaffolding collapsed.

Four men were on the scaffolding at the time, and they fell to the ground – a distance of about 16 feet.  Incredibly, there were no fatalities, although William Harris of Llanwarne was badly bruised and suffered a nasty injury to his right eye.

1864 – Accusation of Rape of a small Child at Llanwarne

In March 1864, John Griffiths, a labourer, was up in court accused of violating a five year old girl by the name of Mary Ann Powell (known as Polly) at Hill Barn in Llanwarne.

In court, Mary’s older sister, Sarah aged 7 was the first witness.  She said  that she lived with her parents at Llanwarne, and that she was not sure how old her little sister, Polly, was.

She said that the knew the man standing in court, and that he was called Jack Griffiths.  She went on to say that she was sent to collect water from the well and Polly went with her;  they went home with the water then went to Hill Barn where Jack Griffiths also was.  Jack asked her to go behind the rick to see if anyone was coming, and Polly went into a hole in the rick with Jack.

After a while, Sarah went to the hole in the rick, and joined Mary and Jack, and it was then that Jack “acted unseemly towards her”.

Eventually they went home, but separate witnesses saw Jack with the children, and when the girls told their mother what had happened she no doubt went ballistic.   When confronted, Jack denied everything, but when the mother examined little Mary after she complained of pain some days later, she discovered that she had a horrible discharge and it turned out that she had been given a venereal disease.

Bail was refused for Jack and he was committed to the Assizes

 1899 – Death of the Rev. W. Baskerville Mynors

The Rev. Walter Baskerville Mynors had been rector of Llanwarne for more than forty years, but his health had not been good for some time.

He travelled to Bath, in the hope of benefiting from the waters there, but after becoming chilled he contracted pneumonia.  His condition deteriorated and his two sons were sent for – his daughter was too unwell herself to travel to see him – and shortly afterwards he died.

He was buried at Llanwarne.

1850 – £5 Reward for Apprehension of Robber

The above reward was offered for the apprehension of William Prosser a labourer of Longtown.

William was thought to be connected with a robbery in Longtown during December 1850, and his description was given as being about 5 feet  inches tall, and aged around 25.

The reward was offered by the wronged party, William Prichard, a farmer of Llanveynoe.

1899 – Christmas Goodwill at Longtown

Mrs Collison showed her usual generosity and gave some twenty poor women and men who were working on the road, a plentiful supply of top quality tea and tobacco.

The Longtown Chapel choir were given a slap up meal at the New Inn, courtesy of Mr. and Mrs. Price.

1832 – Case of Distress

A labourer by the name of William Phillips, living at Lugwardine, went to Hereford at the end of January 1832 to buy food for his wife and family, but as he returned home he was attacked by two men at Tupsley, who brutally beat him and severely damanged his leg.

After a considerable period of suffering and despite treatment, the leg became badly infected and indeed, he nearly died.  Six months later, he was still bed bound in Hereford Infirmary, and although no longer in danger it was thought that he would be a cripple for life.

An appeal for financial help for William and his family went out for donations to add to the £5 made by the Sheriff.  It was not long before generous amounts were being donated.

1861 – Mysterious Drowning at Lugwardine

A man named Jarvis from Longworth Mill was walking by the turnpike road when he saw a “wretched and miserable” old woman sitting on the Hereford side of Lugwardine bridge, with a bundle at her side.

When the woman saw Jarvis, she got up and walked through a gap in the hedge to the strip of land by the river, where the next day her bundle was found…….but not her.

There were some marks on the bank by the water, which seemed to be like the heels of someone slipping, but the parochial authorities were not inclined to bother to try to find a body.

Superintendent Wilson however, decided to search out the truth, and he had the area of the river dragged;  unfortunately nothing came of this, due mainly to the depth of the water at that point.

Mr. Hiles of Tidnor Mills kindly consented to draw the flood gates by his mills, which effectively lowered the water level above, and the search continued.

The pool old woman’s remains were discovered some quarter of a mile below where she was thought to have gone in the water, just below a weir.

The inquest

The inquest revealed that when the woman was found, her apron had been tied over her head and her shoes and stockings were missing.  The bundle found by the river contained a few lice ridden articles of clothing, and her body was in a terrible state from the lice. She had a remarkably flat nose and was muscular and brawny looking.

It was stated that she had been in the locality for a few days, telling people that she had a son in Kington and would be moving on shortly.  She had been taken before the city magistrates for drunkenness on a couple of occasions.

With no further evidence, a verdict of Found Drowned was returned.

1862 – Church Decoration at Christmas

On Christmas Day, 1862, the parish church of Lugwardine was lavishly decorated by the ladies of the village.

Over the altar there were festoons of holly, larel and ivy and the royal purple altar cloth with its inscription of I.H.S in gold along with a tracery of ivy around the windows made a most pleasing effect.  The sills were decorated with winter flowerets, and the chancel arch was enriched with “Hosanna to the Son of David” floriated triangles in holly leaf and berries.

The south transepts contained “Emmanuel” in holly and ivy berries, also the text “God with us” holly berries forming a handsome triangle.  In the north transept was the text, worked in ivy leaves, “For our sakes He became poor”.

The pulpit and reading desk were enriched with wreaths and borders of ivy, and the gallery and pillars were decked with evergreens and wreaths.

The Corona was elaborately decorated with ivy, holly and berries, and the organ rood shone with stars and wreaths of berries.  The seats were dressed with sprigs of evergreens and the pillars were entwined with winter foliage.

When the candles were lit for the evening service, the whole church was incredibly beautiful.

1867 – Sad End of Crimean Hero

Joseph Phillips, a pensioner and late private in the 57th Regiment of Foot was found drowned in the river Lugg.

He had been married to his wife Ann for six years, and they lived in Lugwarding.  Joseph was a pensioner of the 57th Regiment of Foot and had 9d a day pension.

Joseph had been missed for a few days, and missed his call on bail on a charge of drunkenness.  Mr. Davies, a grocer of Commercial Road who was standing Joseph’s bail, applied for an adjournment and he was granted this.

Following this, a warrant for the arrest of Joseph was out, on the charge of assault committed on Mary Barwell.

Joseph Phillips’ last evening

Mary Barwell was the wife of Thomas, a labourer, and they kept the Lugg bridge turnpike gate.  One Thursday evening, Joseph turned up and asked for a light for his pipe, but he actually had no tobacco either and she refused to give him any.  He was rather drunk, and collapsed on the sofa in the kitchen, searching his pockets for tobacco dust – he eventually found enough to put in his pipe but it wouldn’t catch light, whereupon he started to rant and rave.  He said that he had spent nearly all of his pension money, and would go and drown himself.

Mary told him to go home to bed, but he kept on repeating that he would drown himself.  Mary went off to find some wood for the fire, and when she came back he found that he had his hand up her 9 year old daughter’s petticoats;  understandably she was furious and hit out at him, but she was unable to evict him from her house.  Joseph then turned his attentions to her, and tried to grope her under her petticoats at which point her husband fortuitously came home.  Mary went out to a man wanting to pay a toll, and when she returned, Joseph was again indecently assaulting her child.

Mary was so angry that she hit Joseph hard enough to floor him, which made him swear violently, but at least he decided to leave.  That was the last anyone saw of him.

The discovery of the Body of Joseph Phillips

Great efforts were made to find Joseph, and eventually his body was discovered in the river Lugg near to Tidnor forge – his three Crimea medals were found to be attached to the breast of the “gallant but misguided soldier” who had in his country’s service borne “the battle and the breeze.”  The first was a medal with three clasps – Sevastopol, Inkerman, Balaclava;  the second, a medal for long service and good conduct;  the third the French Crimean medal.

The Inquest

At the inquest, Joseph’s wife, who was hugely distressed,  gave evidence, saying that they had not rowed, and on the day he disappeared he was not quite sober as he had drunk a quart of cider on an empty stomach – his appetite having vanished a week previously.

She talked about the medals, and said that he would put them on with his second best clothes to go and get his pension on pension day.

Another witness claimed that when drunk, Joseph would declare that he would drown himself.

A verdict of Found Drowned was returned.

1899 – Suicide at Lugwardine

Phoebe Emma Williams, the 18 year old daughter of William Williams and his wife who worked at the Hereford Sanitary Laundry, for no apparent reason decided to commit suicide in the River Lugg on the day of her birthday.

Phoebe was said to have been “finely developed” for her age, and on the day in question, whilst her parents were working, wandered down to the bridge over the river in the company of her sister, Lizzie, aged 8 and a lad aged 6 by the name of Ivor Price..

She left the children at the bridge, and went into the meadow by the river, where she carefully took off her jacket and hat then folded them neatly and put them beneath the bridge.  She then waded into the river, whilst talking to the children on the bridge.

A lady, Mrs. Brooks and her daughter, turned up and saw that Phoebe was in the water up to her waist, and asked if she needed help to get out;  Phoebe just pleaded to be left alone, and started trying to drown herself by repeatedly ducking beneath the water.

Help was summoned immediately, but when the cavalry arrived, Phoebe was carried out of her depth by the current and sank from view.

Her body was recovered very quickly, but despite artificial respiration being carried out, it was all too late. (Artificial respiration at this time involved little more than rubbing the limbs, covering with blankets and using hot water).  Tragically, Phoebe’s mother was hurrying home with many gifts and things for an evening celebration of her birthday, when she found her daughter lying lifeless on the bank.

The Inquest

At the inquest, it became clear that all was unclear!  Phoebe by all accounts had a happy home life and had not been arguing with anyone prior to the event.  Indeed, she was looking forward to her birthday celebrations, and to seeing her Aunt the following day.

The only theory put forward was that Phoebe had been run down and a little overworked, and got into the water for some kind of amusement.

A verdict of suicide whilst temporarily insane was returned.

As a result of this episode, a drag and life saving apparatus was purchased, and kept at the nearby Lodge.

1832 – Wagon Accident

John Pugh, a labourer working for J. Davis of the Brook Farm, Lyonshall, was driving a wagon heavily laden with oats down a narrow lane.

The wagon tipped over and fell on the poor chap, and although people frantically shoveled the oats out of the way, when they uncovered John Pugh he was dead.

1844 – Opening of New Lodge of Odd Fellows

On 4th November 1844 the Greyhound Inn, kept by John Walters, Lyonshall became the venue for a new lodge of Odd Fellows, of the Manchester Unity.

The number on the dispensation was 1813, which shows the incredible progress of the order, and the name of the branch was the Loyal Lyonshall Castle Lodge.

It was the first to be opened by the officers of the Kington District, and visiting brothers from neighbouring lodges and candidates for admission, began to assemble at ten o’clock.  Shortly afterwards the lodge was opened, and thirteen new members were initiated.

Later, headed by an excellent band, the brothers processed to the church were an impressive sermon was delivered by the Rev. John Randall.

1847 – Child Burns to Death at Lyonshall

Mary Davies aged 4 was left alone in the house of her father Jas. Davies, a labourer, when her mother went out to buy some bread.

When the mother returned she found Mary enveloped in flames, and despite the skills of the surgeon, Mr. Thompson of Kington, she died a few hours later.

As described elsewhere on the site, the Coroner was tearing his hair out because of the terrible frequency of children being burnt to death.  In 1844 there were 7 in one month alone, including 6 year old Thomas Smith of Woonton’s Ash, Lyonshall who was at school.  The master had gone to get some coal to put on the fire, and whilst he was gone Thomas threw some shavings in the grate – the resultant sudden blaze set fire to his pinafore and he burnt to death.

1858 – Suggested Solution to Deprivation by Sheep Worrying

Every year, Herefordshire farmers suffered terrible losses from the dreaded “kill-sheep dogs”.

In April 1858 havoc was created amongst the flock of William Ball of the Hope Farm, with lambs forming the tempting bait to draw dogs into worrying.  In this instance, the mangled remains of three sheep and ten lambs was very distressing for the farming, and two more lambs died later that day.  Most of the deaths were caused by fright rather than savaging.

Insurance did not cover this sort of thing, and it was suggested that the farmers in the district formed an association with subscriptions varying according to how many sheep they had, so that they could stand each other’s losses.

It was said that the killer dogs often traveled great distances, and were rarely not of the immediate area of the attack.

1862 – Suicide at Lyonshall

George Morgan was a married man aged 40 with two children,  had been working as a gardener for Charles W. Allen, and had never given any indication of being unhappy.  He was a regular churchgoer and much trusted by his employer.

George was found hanging by a cord from a piece of wood across a trap door in the ceiling, and was almost fully dressed.

The surgeon, Mr. Gustavus Foote said that George was of a bilious and melancholy temperament, and that such men do commit suicide at times.

1863 – Child Murdered at Lyonshall

Sarah Wilcox, a 20 year old single woman was charged with murdering her illegitimate female child on 27th August 1863 at the house of John Fowler, Rise Farm, Lyonshall.

Sarah was entirely friendless, and both her parents were dead;  during the whole inquiry she sat in an arm chair resting her head on a pillow and could barely speak in response to questions.

It transpired that whilst Sarah Wilcox was working for the Fowlers, Mrs.  Fowler became suspicious that she was pregnant, but when she asked Sarah if this was the case, she vehemently denied it.  Mrs. Fowler was not convinced however, and when Mr. Foote, a surgeon, happened to call at the house she asked him to give his opinion, and although he agreed that Sarah did appear pregnant it would be some time before he could be sure.

On 27th August, a woman staying at the house, Rachel Trigg, rushed to see Mrs. Fowler, saying that something bad had happened – Mrs. Fowler went to Sarah’s bedroom and saw that the floor had been scrubbed, and she also found blood on the stairs going to the dairy.

When Sarah was questioned, she said nothing had happened, but eventually she was examined by Mr. Foote who confirmed that she had just given birth;  also the afterbirth was found in the orchard and she finally confessed to throwing her baby into the middle of the pond.  The police dragged a rake through the pond and discovered the baby.

The Post Mortem

The baby girl was fully developed and weighed nearly 7 lbs.  There were no marks of violence, and the navel string had been cut roughly, or torn off, with no ligature.

On opening the chest which was well formed, the heart and thymus gland occupied the front, the lungs on either side partly over capping and were a bright rose colour and crepitous to the touch.

On removing the heart and lungs from the chest and placing them in water, the heart and thymus gland sank and the lungs floated;  on cutting the lungs into small pieces and pressing each piece firmly between the folds of a towel and then putting them into water, each and every piece floated. When pressing the pieces of lung, dirty looking aerated fluid escaped.

From these tests the opinion was formed that the baby had breathed.

Next the abdomen was opened and stomach removed, and it was found to contain dirty fluid, like dirty water, and the coat of the stomach had gritty dirt adhering to it.  The only way it could have got in there was by being swallowed.

The inquest jury returned a verdict of wilful murder, and Sarah was  taken to Hereford in a closed carriage, and committed for trial at the March Assizes.

1899 – Mr. Steward Robinson Comes Home

A telegram announced the expected arrival of Steward Robinson on the last train of the day on 17th July 1899.

He had been living in Ceylon and India for some four and a half years, and the Lyonshall villagers were excited about his return as he was much loved and respected.  Many people gathered at the station gates, and the church bells rang with such skill that it was clear that the experienced old hands were manning the ropes.

When the carriage from the station reached the entrance lodge, the horses were unhitched and Mr. Robinson was pulled up the drive to his home by estate workers, followed by a crowd of men, women and children, all cheering loudly.

Steward Robinson made a small speech, and went around shaking a great many hands;  after which everyone partook of some refreshments before going home.