8^th January 1910

BROSELEY.

SANITARY COMMITTEE.

Wednesday.— Present— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors J. Nicklin, T. I. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, G. Keay, and T. S. Instone, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (rate collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).

The Chairman thanked the meeting for re-electing him chairman for the ensuing year. He considered it a great honour, and he should do all he could to get the work done as efficiently as possible. (Applause.)

Mr. Herbert reported one case of scarlet fever in the town. He also reported a number of nuisances, which were ordered to be abated.

The committee decided to take over the Pritchard Memorial, and to do the necessary repairs.

The Clerk reported a balance in hand on the two accounts of £232 7s. 8d., and it was decided to pay bills to the amount of £125, which would reduce the balance to £106.— Mr. Oakes said there was still £469 to be collected on the district rate.

Mr. F. Oakley’s tender of £15 was accepted for scavenging the Broseley and Jackfield districts for the next 12 mouths. This is a reduction of £2.

A general discussion ensued on the condition of the footpaths in the town, and it was decided to spend about £15 on repairing them, the matter to be left to a sub-committee.

Mr. Abberley reported that all the water mains in the district were in good order.

8^th January 1910

Shropshire County Council

Licensing Committee.

The report of the Licensing Committee of the County was presented. It was stated that during the year 27 reports from renewal authorities had been received, and with regard to 15 of these licenses the committee decided not to proceed therein, and they were accordingly renewed. These were Bell Vaults, Bridgnorth; Black Boy, Bridgnorth; Leopard Inn, Bridgnorth; Red Lion, Cheswardine; The Fox Inn, Shakeford; Plough Inn, Little Worthen; Compasses, Shrewsbury; Sun Tavern, Shrewsbury; Engine and Tender, Shrewsbury; Wrekin, Shrewsbury; Bell Inn, Wistanstow; Coach and Horses, Wellington; Wine Vaults, Wem; Cross Keys, Broseley; and the Sun Inn, Llanymynech. The total compensation awarded to the parties and paid for the 12 licenses extinguished during the year 1909 was £5,961. The Secretary of State had approved the payment of the sum of £80 as the clerk’s annual remuneration for the additional work imposed by the Act in respect of each of the years ending 1908-9. Mr. James Vine of Shrewsbury had been re-elected auditor. A sum of £360 8s. 5d. was paid out in expenses during the year, and there was a balance standing to the credit of the fund of £4,833 11s. 8d., which was available to meet the expenses of the present year. It was deemed desirable to postpone the question of the amount of the charges to be imposed under the Licensing Act, 1904, for the ensuing year until the Easter Sessions.

The Chairman, in moving the adoption of the report, said during the year a very large number of houses were referred to the County Authority namely 27. For want of sufficient funds they could not deal with all but 12 licenses were not renewed, and it was satisfactory that in every case the compensation awarded was that which found favour with the Compensation Authority. In all cases, except three, the sum offered was accepted, and in these three cases the Inland Revenue Authority confirmed the awards of the Compensation Authority. During the year they had overspent their income owing to some extent to the expenses of working the Act, which were more than heretofore. Over these expenses the Committee had no power, they being automatic. There was still, however, a balance in hand of some £5,000, and they had not yet received what was due to them from the Inland Revenue on the accounts for this year. Since the Act came into force they had received—in the first year, £7,268, the maximum; in the three following years the charge imposed was three-quarters of the maximum. In 1906 they received £5,438, in the following year £5,627, and last year £5,530. The Committee had decided to postpone their decision as to the charge to be imposed on licensed houses until the next sessions, because they would then be in a better position to know what was before them and before the licensed houses.— Mr. Kenyon seconded the motion, and said he agreed with what the Chairman had said. They had been able to suppress about 12 licenses each year, and they hoped that either by the voluntary resignation on the part of the brewers or under the compensation arrangement they would be able to keep up the average in reducing the licenses in the county, because there was no doubt there were still too many public-houses in Shropshire.— The report was adopted.

22^nd January 1910

BROSELEY.

BROTHERHOOD.— The usual meeting was held on Sunday, under the presidency of Mr. J. E. Hartshorne. There was a poor attendance. The Rev. B. E. Hartshorne (Iron-Bridge) gave an interesting address on “Truth”, and Mr. F. Glover contributed a flute solo,

CHURCH SUNDAY SCHOOL.— The annual sermons in aid of the Church Sunday School were preached in the Parish Church on Sunday by the Rev. P. Gordon, M.A. (vicar of Christ Church, Wellington).

OLD BAPTIST CHAPEL.— The ordination and recognition services of Mr. J. Gilpin, as pastor of this church, on Sunday and Monday were well attended. A very able sermon was preached on Sunday by Mr. H. Doughty of Donnington Wood. About 60 attended the public tea on Monday, which was followed with the ordination service, conducted by Mr. H. Doughty, in the presence of the deacons and officers of the church. Mr. Doughty publicly ordained Mr. Jas. Gilpin to the Baptist ministry, and handed over to him the pastorate of the church. Mr. J. W. White (Iron-Bridge) subsequently presided over a public meeting, when Messrs. H. Doughty, Maurice Jones, M.A., W. J. Crawford, and B. Broadhurst delivered excellent addresses, in which they spoke of the personal friendship and interest in the spiritual life of their pastor, the Rev. J. Gilpin, and wished him God-speed in his new sphere. Solos were contributed during the evening by Miss Nellie Atkins and Mr. H. Jennison. Mr. Sydney Gilpin presided at the organ.

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.

Before the Right Hon. Lord Forester (mayor). Dr. G. D. Collins, and Aldermen A. B. Dyas and D. L. Prestage.

A BAD START.— Thomas Williams, bricklayer, Broseley, was charged with making use of obscene language in his own house.— Police-constable Edwards proved the case, and defendant was fined 7s, 6d., including costs.

LARCENY.— Elizabeth Goodall, a married woman, with seven children, living at Broseley, was charged with stealing three holland aprons, value 1s. 7d., the property of Allan Ernest Ledger, draper, of the same town.— It appeared from the evidence that defendant was standing outside Mr. Ledger’s shop, and was seen by two little girls. Sarah Ellen Gittens (9), and Edith Gladys Hill (10), to take the aprons, and run towards her home.— Police-constable Edwards stated that defendant was under the influence of drink at the time, a statement which accused denied.— Goodall, who stated that she picked up the articles, was bound over to be of good behaviour for two years, and to be under the supervision of Dr. Collins, to whom she would have to report herself every month.

The License of the Cape of Good Hope, Broseley, was transferred to Mr. John Spalding, Burton-on-Trent.

5^th February 1910

WILLEY.

SKATING ACCIDENT.— Whilst skating on the pool at Willey on Sunday, a carpenter on the estate named George Embrey accidentally fell on the ice, and broke his leg. He was immediately conveyed to the Broseley Forester Hospital and attended to by Dr. Boon.

5^th February 1910

BROSELEY.

SANITARY COMMITTEE.

Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors J. Nicklin, T. Doughty, A. A. Exley, T. J. Griffiths, G. Keay, and T. S. Instone, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (rate collector), and L. Abberley(water inspector).

Mr. Herbert reported that there was no infectious disease in the borough. (Hear, hear.)

It was decided to repair the Pritchard Memorial.

The Clerk reported a balance in hand on the general district and water account of £314.— Mr. Oakes stated that there was £270 yet to be collected in the general district rate. Voids and assessment reductions, he added, amounted to £69, which was considered enormous.— After paying bills, it was stated that there would be an adverse balance.

A man named Roper was appointed road man for Jackfield.

Mr. Abberley reported that all the water mains in the district were in good working order.

Complaints were made by members that the roads were not promptly ashed on frosty mornings, and the surveyor was instructed to look into the matter.

On the motion of Mr. Nicklin, a man named Jones was appointed caretaker of the cemetery.

The Clerk presented his estimate of expenditure for the ensuing 12 months, and said the amount to be raised by a rate was £1,404, which included £110 for salaries, £190 public lighting, and £190 for loans.— After some conversation Mr. Doughty proposed that they levy a general district rate of 2s. 10d. in the pound. — Mr. Instone seconded the motion, and it was carried unanimously. This is a reduction of 2d. in the pound.

5^th March 1910

INDUCTION AT BROSELEY
THE NEW RECTOR.

All Saints’ Church, Broseley, was on Wednesday evening well filled with an interested congregation who came from all parts of the neighbourhood on the occasion of the installation and induction of the newly-appointed rector, the Rev. A. C. Howell, B.A., to the living of Broseley, the gift of the Right Hon. Lord Forester. The service was conducted by the Lord Bishop of Hereford (Dr. Percival). Miss Watkis presided at the organ. The proceedings opened with the processional hymn, “O Thou, Who makest souls to shine”. The Rev. W. Rowlands (curate-in-charge) headed the procession, followed by the choir, the Revs. Marsden Edwards (Jackfield), W. Hamlyn (Iron-Bridge), W. A. Terry (Benthall), C. B. Crowe, R. D. (Coalbrookdale), Reader (Willey), A. C. Howell, the Bishop of Hereford, Lord Forester, and Dr. Collins and Mr. A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (churchwardens). After the installation of the new rector by the Bishop at the chancel, the Bishop and the Rev. A. C. Howell, with Lord Forester, were conducted to the main door by the wardens, and his lordship laying the new rector’s hand on the key, the Bishop formally handed over the charge of the church. This was followed by the ringing of the bell, and a service at the lectern, font, pulpit, and chancel, the hymn “We love the place, O God”, being sung by the choir and congregation. These proceedings were watched with keen interest.

His Lordship then addressed the congregation with much earnestness. In the course of his remarks he said they had just parted with a minister (the Rev. G. F. Lamb) who had closed a long and faithful service, and they prayed that he might enjoy a peaceful and happy eventide of his life. He was sure those who had known him for many years would pray for him who had worked so faithfully among them. That night they were welcoming another labourer in Christ’s vine-yard. His Lordship then referred to the new rector’s numerous duties, and said that the exhortations that evening were a reminder to the new incumbent of the seriousness and solemnity of the charges he had taken over in the parish. He was to be diligent and faithful to the Bible, and also to the exposition of it. The service at the pulpit, his lordship added, was a reminder that he must be an earnest preacher of the Gospel of Christ, and the service at the Lord’s table was a reminder that he was to gather his parishioners at the Holy Communion that they should be a parish of church communicants, going in the way in which the Lord invited them to go. He would remind them that the new rector stood among his people as the Lord’s messenger, as an interpreter of the word of God, a messenger of the Lord, in other words he was indeed to be a prophet. This, his Lordship said, was a great deal to consider. He was to live and labour among them. He was to be on the watch against every evil influence which might creep into the societies, and which certainly should be swept away. Their new rector was to watch every weak member of the church, and so to be on the watch as to make the parish more and more a real Christian community. He should remember that he was to live as an example, and his example should be that of a holy life. He should be a guide to the young, and see that they were brought up in the fear of the Lord. He should also be a comforter to the aged. They prayed that he might walk right in this great cause, and at last receive the great blessing. He concluded his address by urging the workers to do all they could to assist the new incumbent, as it was impossible for him to do all the work in the parish. They should share in the good work, and not leave it all to the clergy, as was often the case. “Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.”

A collection was taken for church expenses.

The Rev. A. C. Howell, who for nine years has been vicar of St. Matthew’s, Wolverhampton, was ordained in 1891, and appointed first to the curacy of Langley Green, Worcestershire, where he remained for a period of nine years, when he succeeded the Rev. S. Cordon as vicar of St. Matthew’s, Wolverhampton.

5^th March 1910

BROSELEY.

SANITARY COMMITTEE,

Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (Chairman), Councillors J. Nicklin, A. A. Exley, T. I. Griffiths, G. Keay, and T. S. Instone, and Mr. F. H. Potts (clerk).— Mr. Herbert reported the district free from notifiable infectious disease. He reported two cases of over-crowding at Jackfield, and notices were ordered to be served on the tenants.— The Chairman and Mr. Griffiths were appointed to see the collector, who is ill, and to go over the list of voids and defaulters. It was also decided to take proceedings against the defaulters for the recovery of the rate within 14 days.- The Clerk reported that there was a balance in hand on the water account for the first time, and on the two accounts there was a balance of nearly £200.— The Surveyor was instructed to attend to certain footpaths in the district.

IN RE LOUISA AUGUSTA BEARD, LICENSED VICTUALLER. —Mr. Frank Cariss, official receiver, presided at the first meeting of creditors in this matter at Shrewsbury on Saturday. No resolution was passed, and the Official Receiver remains trustee. The gross liabilities are £769 5s. 11d., expected to rank at £710 8s.; assets £216 10s; deficiency £536 10s. 11d. The alleged causes of failure were “taking over the business of the Pheasant Inn at my brother’s death; falling off in trade during the first two years, and especially the last six months.”

BAD LANGUAGE.— James Richards was charged with making use of obscene language in his own house at Jackfield.— Police-constable Reeves proved the case, and defendant was fined 1s. and costs.

ANOTHER CHANCE.— William Simpson, labourer, Iron-Bridge, was charged with failing to report himself.— Inspector Jones stated that defendant was under the supervision of the police, and that he left his house for a week without reporting himself.— Defendant stated that he forgot all about reporting himself.— Superintendent Tait said he did not wish to press the case.— The Bench sentenced Simpson to one day’s imprisonment.

SLEEPING OUT.— William Barker, a native of Much Wenlock, was charged with sleeping, out at Stretton Westwood.— Sergt. Williams stated that he found Barber sleeping out in a stable on Mr. Lloyd’s farm. Defendant was a married man, and his wife had got a maintenance order against him.— The Bench sentenced defendant to one day’s imprisonment, and told him that if he appeared before them again he would be heavily punished.

GAME TRESPASS.— Robert Gethin collier, Iron-Bridge, and William Harvey, labourer, Broseley, were charged with trespassing on land at Benthall in search of conies.— Police-constable Edwards stated that he saw defendants in Mr. Bagnall’s field rabbit worrying. They ran away, and he found two nets set and a ferret, which he took possession of.— Defendant pleaded guilty, but were discharged under the First, Offenders Probation Act, and ordered to pay the costs.

LICENSING BUSINESS.— This being the adjourned licensing meeting, Mr. Pearson, on behalf of Messrs. Lassell and Sharman, brewers, made a formal application for the renewal of the license of the Lake’s Head Inn, Iron-Bridge.— Superintendent Tait objected to the renewal on the, ground that the house was not required for the needs of the district. The original license of this house, he said, dated back to 1780, and during the last 14 years there had been five transfers. Each time be visited the house there were no customers, and the building was in a bad state of repair. The landlord told him that the trade was very bad.- Mr. Pearson said the owner would put the property into repair if the license was renewed.— Inspector Jones said there were four full-licensed houses and two beerhouses within 400 yards, and this house was not required.- Sergeant Taylor also corroborated. - Mr. E. F. Groves here made a formal application for the renewal of the license of the Royal Oak at Iron-Bridge, his property. — Superintendent Tait stated that in 12 years there had been six transfers granted to this house, which was in fair condition, but as there was better accommodation in the neighbourhood he objected to the renewal of the license as the house was not required for the needs of the district.— Inspector Jones said that there were five full licensed houses and one beerhouse within 300 yards of this house. Recently, he said, there had been a difficulty in getting tenants— the trade was poor.— Sergeant Taylor also corroborated.- Mr. John Instone (tenant) made formal application for the renewal of the license of the Cross Keys Inn, Broseley.— Superintendent Tait, who opposed the license, said the house was in good order, but the trade was very bad. The tenant told him he had to give the “long pull” to obtain customers.— Inspector Jones stated that there were two full-licensed houses and two beer houses within a distance of 330 yards. The trade was poor, and the customers low class.— Sergeant Taylor corroborated, and Police-constable Edwards said the house was more like a private house than a public one.— All these houses were referred for compensation, the licenses being renewed provisionally.

5^th March 1910

TWO NEW PEERS.

MR. GLADSTONE & THE HON. IVOR GUEST

The King has conferred the dignity of a Viscount of the United Kingdom upon the Right Hon. Herbert John Gladstone, Governor-General and Commander-in-Chief designate of the Union in South Africa; also his Majesty has conferred the dignity of a Baron of the United Kingdom upon the Hon. Ivor Churchill Guest, Paymaster-General.

Fourth and youngest son of the late Mr. W. E Gladstone, Mr. Herbert Gladstone has been the only member of the family to devote himself to politics. After three years as history lecturer at Oxford, Mr Gladstone, at the age of 26, was returned M. P. for West Leeds in 1880. He held his seat for 30 years until he resigned in January last on his appointment as Governor-General of South Africa. Beginning as private secretary to his father, Mr. Gladstone became rapidly a Whip, Financial Secretary to the War Office, Under-Secretary to the Home Office, First Commissioner of Works, Chief Liberal Whip, and in 1901 Home Secretary. It is understood that he will take the title of Viscount Gladstone.

Mr. Ivor Guest is the heir of Lord Wimborne, and thus, like Lord Curzon, becomes a baron while his father is still alive. Ultimately, of course, the two baronies will be merged. First a Unionist M.P. like his father, and then Liberal M.P. for Cardiff in the last Parliament, Mr. Guest did not stand again in January.

The elevation of Mr. Ivor Guest to the peerage requires more than a passing notice in the columns of the JOURNAL, as the Guests still own property in the Wellington division of Shropshire. His ancestors, John and Thomas Guest, who left Broseley in 1782 for the virgin coalfield and iron ores of Dowlais, were together with their successors the iron kings of South Wales for many years, and their rise to immense wealth was really wonderful and unprecedented. The anecdote told by Roebuck in his history of the times in which he lived is worth re-telling. He tells how Lady Charlotte, the wife of Sir John Guest, took so great an interest in the progress of the works that she gave instructions to the cashier to bring up the books to her, wherever she might be. She happened to be entertaining a bevy of fashionable beauties at the time the messenger arrived, with his saddlebags bespattered with mud, and they surrounded her like bees as she perused the accounts, muttering “£300,000”! “What is three hundred thousand pounds”? one of her visitors inquired. “Three hundred thousand pounds is the profit from our coal-hole in South Wales,” her ladyship replied. Mr. John Lloyd of Chepstow Place, London. W., in his history of the old South Wales ironworks has from over ten thousand documents placed at his service giving a splendid account of the doings of the Guests at Dowlais, and of their development of that important centre of coal and iron industry.

19^th March 1910

WENLOCK BOROUGH
COUNCIL.

A special meeting was held on Tuesday; present:— Aldermen D. L. Prestage (chairman), A. B. Dyas, T. Cooke. J. Davies, G. Lloyd, and F. G. Beddoes, Capt. Geo. Forester, Councillors J. H. A. Whitley, C. Edwards, T. I. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, A. L. Hayes,, T. R. Horton, S. T. Instone, G. Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson(surveyor), and A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (magistrates’ clerk).

General district rates were levied for the following wards:— Barrow 1s. 3d. in the pound, Madeley 2s. 8d., Broseley 2s. 10d., and Much Wenlock 2s. 8d. Water rates of 1s. 3d. in the pound were also levied for Madeley, Broseley, and Much Wenlock wards.

Captain Forester said it would be rather hard on Barrow if the were called upon to pay for the improvement of the road to the proposed sanatorium at Shirlett, after having given the site.

Alderman Cooke proposed that the borough seal be affixed to the agreement with Messrs. Timmins and Sons, Runcorn, in connection with the Much Wenlock water supply.— Mr. Edwards seconded.— Alderman Davies: What is this supply? I have heard nothing about it.— Alderman Cooke explained that their present water supply had been bad. The water was cut off at night, and as there was a sewerage scheme before them it was necessary to have a better water supply. This money was for sinking another bore-hole, which would cost about £400.— Alderman Davies asked if they expected a good supply from this bore-hole, when there was one close by.— Alderman Cooke replied in the affirmative.— Captain Forester asked if they had tried the hazel-twig.-Alderman Cooke said they knew there was water at this place.- Alderman Dyas reminded the Much Wenlock representatives that there was an adequate supply at Madeley.— The motion was carried.

The Chairman said he had received a letter from Dr. Urwick, concerning the Shropshire Association for Prevention of Consumption, asking for a meeting to be called in the borough with the object of forming a branch of the association in the district. The Chairman added that Lord Forester had kindly given the site for the sanatorium, and he thought this fact alone would interest them in the cause.— After some conversation it was decided to call public meeting at Much Wenlock, Broseley, Iron-Bridge, and Madeley. — A general committee was appointed to make the necessary arrangements.

9^th April 1910

BROSELEY.

SUDDEN DEATH.— Mr. Harry Bunnagar, a well-known cricketer, fell dead whilst going to his work on Monday. Deceased, who was 57 years of age, was singing in the Congregational Chapel choir on the previous evening. He was a printer at Messrs. Maw’s works, Jackfield and was held in much esteem by his fellow workmen. He was treasurer of the works club, and a member of the Iron-Bridge Oddfellows Society, Mr. F. H. Potts (borough coroner) held an inquest on the body on Tuesday, when, from the evidence adduced, it appeared that deceased had been suffering from consumption. The jury returned a verdict of “Death from natural causes”. The deceased was captain of the Broseley Second team, and helped them to win many matches, and also the Iron-Bridge Cricket League Championship. In the presence of a large representative gathering, the funeral took place on Thursday at the Congregational Burial ground. Among those present were Alderman D. L. Prestage (captain of the Cricket Club), Councillor J. Nicklin (managing director of Messrs Maw’s Works), Mr. T. Harrington (secretary of the Works Sick Club), and members of the Congregational Chapel, of which deceased was a member. The choir were present, and sang a hymn, and at the close of the service, which was conducted try the Rev. B. E. Hawkins (Wesleyan minister) Miss Millward played the “Dead March,” on the organ. Deceased having been a member of the Iron-Bridge “Oddfellows” club, a contingent attended the obsequies, and Mr. J. W. White read the Order’s oration. There was a large number of beautiful wreaths contributed by members of the family, Broseley Cricket Club, Maw’s Works Sick Club, press shop, and printing room.

SANITARY COMMITTEE, Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillor J, Nicklin, T. Doughty, T. J. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, S. T. Instone, and G. Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G Stevenson (surveyor). H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), B. Oakes (collector), E. Abberley (water inspector).— With reference to the pig nuisance reported by Mr. Herbert, the meeting decided after some conversation to uphold the opinion of the inspector.— Mr. Instone said he thought they should not be too hard. No one wanted dearer pigs or bacon. The biggest nuisance was at the back of his house.— It was decided to instruct the scavenging contractor to attend to the matter. - Mr Herbert reported one case of scarlet fever in the town, and one ease of puerperal fever. He also reported a number of nuisances which were ordered to be abated.- The Clerk reported a balance in hand on the general accounts.— Mr. Oakes stated that £10 in water rates and £24 in rents were yet to be collected.- Mr. Abberley remitted that all the water mains at Broseley and Jackfield were in good working order, and free from leakage, but he added that several conduits at Jackfield required overhauling. He also reported that he had completed the water service to the Railway Terrace at Jackfield, at a cost of £15 10s. During the last quarter, Mr. Abberley reported, 39,000 gallons of water had been consumed at the Broseley Schools.

16^th April 1910

BROSELEY

PETTY SESSIONS.- Tuesday.

Before Dr. G. D. Collins (chairman), Aldermen D. L. Prestage and J. Davies, and Councillor B. Maddox.

WARNING TO PRIVATE BREWERS.— Mary Elizabeth Edmunds, Yew Tree House, Madeley, was charged by, the Inland Revenue Office with brewing without entering the necessary notice.— Mr. F. Dart, solicitor, Customs Office, London, prosecuted, and explained the Act. He said the duty was 7s. 6d., and if every-one did the same as defendant it would be a serious matter for the revenue.— William Kelly, supervisor, Bridgnorth, stated that defendant held a license. When witness was passing Mrs. Edmunds’s house, his attention was directed by a smell of brewing. He went into the brewhouse, and found defendant’s husband conducting the brewing. There were about 54 gallons in the copper. On looking at the paper produced by the daughter, he found that no entry had been made of any brewing. He wrote to defendant about it, and her reply was that it was overlooked.— Defendant’s husband appeared, and said he had filled up the paper many times. It was neglect on this occasion; there was no intent of defrauding.— Defendant was fined 19s., including costs.— Future cases, the Bench said, would not be so lightly treated. — Mr. Edmunds: You won’t catch me here again.(Laughter.)

PUBLICAN FINED.— Albert Perks, labourer and William Taylor, clerk, both of Jackfield, were charged with being on the licensed premises of the Duke of Wellington Inn, Jackfield, during prohibited hours, Mr. R. J. R. Haslewood (Bridgnorth) defended. Police-constable Reeves deposed that on the 19th ult., about 11 o’clock at night, he was standing at the bottom of the Tuckies Road, Jackfield, and saw customers come out of the Duke of Wellington Inn, Shortly after he went up the road, and saw the yard door of the inn open. He heard talking in the house, and he then went past the kitchen door (which was closed) to the sitting-room window. He heard several persons laughing and talking. In a few minutes he recognised Perks’s voice. At 11-20 he heard Perks ask Mrs. Parcel (the landlady) for three whiskies. He also heard the barmaid say something, and Perks said, “You’d better have something better.” A minute after, through the window blind, he saw Mrs. Parcel come into the room, carrying a tray with some glasses on. He also heard Mrs. Parcel say, “Your change.” At five minutes to 12 o’clock Perks came outside, and witness asked him if he knew he had done any wrong by being in the house, and he replied that the barmaid asked them to stop a bit. Police-constable Reeves added that he then went into the sitting-room, and saw Taylor and Mrs. Parcel sitting on one side of the fire, and the barmaid on the other side. He saw glasses on the table. He spoke to Taylor, and Mrs. Parcel said she asked them to stop a bit, but they had not paid for any drinks. She said the drinks were on the table before 11 o’clock. He told Mrs. Parcel that he would have to report the matter. She said he was taking a very mean advantage, as Mr. Parcel was away. When defendants left the house they said to the officer that they were sorry for what had happened.— In reply to Superintendent Tait, the officer stated that the barmaid was the worse for drink. — Police-constable Edwards and George Cox having given evidence for the prosecution, Perks stated that he went in the house about ten o’clock, and left at eleven. They then talked to the barmaid about a dance, and Mrs. Parcel asked them inside, but no money was paid for drinks. There were drinks on the table, and they drank some of it. The barmaid was not the worse for drink.— Taylor gave corroborative evidence.— The landlady, Mrs. Parcel, denied that anyone had paid for whiskies after 11 o’clock, and said that the barmaid was not the worse for drink. She gave the barmaid permission to ask defendants into the house after 11.— Fanny Kersley, barmaid at the Duke of Wellington, corroborated the last witness’s statement.— The Bench said they were of opinion that the case was proved, but on account of defendants good character they would not be convicted, but would be bound over to be of good behaviour for a period of 12 months. They were also ordered to pay the costs.- Walter E. Parcel, landlord of the Duke of Wellington Inn, Jackfield, was then charged with allowing intoxicating liquor to be consumed on his premises during prohibited hours.- Mr. R. J. R. Haslewood defended.— Police-constable Reeves repeated a portion of the evidence he gave in the last case.— Sergeant Taylor stated that he visited the house on the following Sunday, when, in reply to him, Mrs. Parcel said that when she saw the last defendants in the sitting-room she did not want to offend them, nor her maid, who was the worse for drink. The drinks were on the table before eleven o’clock.— William Edward Evans said on the night referred to Mrs. Parcel gave him a pint of beer on the strength of her birthday about nine o’clock. He did not go into the sitting-room that night. — Hannah Evans, wife of the last witness, said she had a glass of beer in the sitting-room early in the evening.— Albert Perks, defendant in the last case, and William Taylor repeated their evidence given in the preceding case.— George Cox also gave evidence.— Mr. Haslewood contended that there was no case to answer; but the Bench said they were of a different opinion.— Mrs. Parcel repeated her evidence for the defence, as also did the barmaid, Miss Kersley.— Defendant was fined £3 17s., including costs.

GAME TRESPASS.— Henry Potts, labourer, Jackfield, and Albert Rogers, labourer, Madeley Wood, were charged with being on Mr. Legge’s land at Madeley - in search of conies.— After the evidence of Herbert Lysons, Potts was fined 30s., including costs.— The case against Rogers was dismissed.

23^rd April 1910

THE SHROPSHIRE
SANATORIUM,
MEETING AT IRON-BRIDGE.

In connection with the Association for the Prevention of Consumption a public meeting was held at the Lecture Room, Iron-Bridge on Tuesday, for the purpose of forming a local committee, and to explain to the public the benefits to be derived from the establishment of a sanatorium at Shirlett. Alderman F. G. Beddoes presided, and was supported by Dr. Urwick (Shrewsbury), Alderman D. L. Prestage, and Councillor B. Maddox. There was a small attendance.

The Chairman read a letter of apology from. Mr. W. G. Norris, who stated that he was unable to be present, but sent a donation of £5 towards the fund, and hoped they would have a successful meeting. (Applause.) The Chairman went on to refer to a meeting held in Shrewsbury 12 months ago, when Sir James Creighton Browne gave an address on the subject of tuberculosis and consumption, which was the upshot of the formation if a large committee, and the appointment of Dr, Urwick as hon. secretary. (Applause.) Meetings, the Chairman said, had been held in nearly every town in the county, and the Wenlock Borough Council decided at their last gathering to hold meetings in the four wards. They were asked to make this matter known as far as possible, and what they wanted to do was to get the working people to ventilate their houses better, and to keep them in a more cleanly state, so as to keep this terrible disease not only from spreading, but from occurring. (Applause.) If they went from house to house they would scarcely see a window open, although the more ventilation they gave the more likely would they be to prevent the spreading of this terrible disease. Dr. Wheatley had stated that in the county of Salop, which was not by any means the worst county in England, no fewer than 250 deaths took place every year from consumption, which meant a monetary loss to the county of something like £34,000. Sir James Creighton Browne said that the deaths in a year from tuberculosis were no fewer than 56,481 in England and Wales; this he (the speaker) considered was most astounding. What they wanted to do was to try to get as many interested in the matter as possible, and if they could stamp out the disease it was their duty to do so. (Applause.) They should be particularly interested in that borough, Lord Forester had given the land for the sanatorium at Shirlett. (Applause.)

Dr, Urwick then addressed the meeting at length on lines as at other places. He began by explaining the nature of the disease, adding that it used to be the opinion that if a person got consumption he was at once damned, and was looked upon by the people as one to be shunned. Tuberculosis, he said, was killed by sunlight, quoting the remark by Sir James Creighton Brown that 900 germs could stand on the point of a needle. Consumption was one of the most fatal of diseases, and was also one of the most preventable. The life of a person who got phthisis was five years, which showed to them how fatal a disease it was; but in the last 70 years there was a decrease of 70 per cent, in death, which looked as if in another 50 years the disease would he stamped out. Now they knew the cause of it they surely ought to be able to reduce it. Professor Cook told them that the decrease in Germany was more rapid than in England, which was due to better education of the people on this one point, and this showed that it was a very preventable disease. Prevention they knew was better than cure. He was glad a stop was being put to the habit of spitting in public places. Cleanliness and fresh air were one way of destroying the bacilli. He spoke strongly in favour of sanatoria, for the rules were not only strict, but were observed. He went on to say that they should see that the people’s houses were in a more healthy condition. The housing problem he knew, was a difficult one, and he did not think there would be any great improvement in the workmen’s dwellings for a long time. Dr. Urwick said he favoured a sanatorium in the county, and was of opinion that the site at Shirlett was one of the most suitable in the country. (Applause.) The site, as they knew, was given by Lord Forester, and the plans of the building had been accepted by the committee. All patients should be admitted on their merits, and local committees should deal with people in their own districts. He said they had appealed for £8,000, and they had already got £4,000 promised, all started by voluntary contributions, and he thought public bodies should subscribe. (Hear, hear.) They hoped at first to deal with 30 patients, but the permanent part would provide for 60 or 70. The cost of maintenance was estimated at £3,000 a year, and he did not think there would be any difficulty in getting the money. He also was of opinion that it would be necessary to have a resident medical man. (Applause.)

A representative committee was appointed, and Mr. B. Maddox was elected secretary, and Mr. J, W. White treasurer.

MEETING AT MADELEY.

A public meeting was held at Madeley on Wednesday, under the presidency of Alderman A. B. Dyas, in connection with the association, when Dr. J. Wheatley (medical officer of health for the county) attended, and explained to the meeting the benefits to be derived from the establishment of the new sanatorium at Shirlett. A large and representative committee was formed, and Miss Randall was appointed secretary.

MEETING AT BROSELEY.

On Monday a meeting was held in Broseley Town Hall in aid of the objects of the association. Alderman D. L. Prestage. J.P., presided over a moderate attendance, and explained the object of the meeting. He was supported on the platform by Councillor J. Nicklin (Broseley), and Dr. R. H. Urwick, M.D. (Shrewsbury). A local committee was formed, and Dr. Urwick addressed the meeting, explaining the benefits anticipated from the establishment of the new sanatorium at Shirlett. He combated the argument that consumption was incurable, and emphatically declared that in his opinion no need despair if proper means are used in its earliest stages. The doctor referred to the insidious nature of the disease, and the precautions necessary to be taken, emphasising the importance of proper diet. Milk, he said, had been the means of conveying the disease into the human system in many instances. The doctor was attentively listened to and frequently applauded, and on the proposition of the Chairman, seconded by Councillor Nicklin, a vote of thanks was accorded him for his address and on the proposition of Dr. Boon, seconded by Mr. F. H. Potts (town clerk), a similar compliment was paid to the chairman.

14^th May 1910

IRON-BRIDGE.

Before Alderman A. B. Dyas (chairman), Dr. G. D. Collins, Alderman F. G. Beddoes, Councillors B. Maddox and W. Roberts.

ASSAULT OF PUBLICAN.— Thomas Fletcher, labourer, Broseley, was charged with assaulting Stephen Hill, landlord of the Elephant and Castle, Broseley.— Mr. Hill stated that on Broseley fair night, a few minutes before eleven o’clock, he had occasion to ask defendant to use better language in the (complainant’s) house. Fletcher then attempted to strike him with a stick, but missed him and struck his daughter on the back of the head. Complainant then went outside to speak to the police about Fletcher’s conduct, and on leaving the police, defendant struck complainant with a stick on the face, which knocked him on his back. He still felt the effects of the blow. He had also a bad face.— Police-constable Edwards said he saw defendant strike Mr Hill a severe blow with his fist, which knocked him down. It was most cowardly and unprovoked assault.- Defendant said he did not strike Mr. Hill with a stick. He was sorry the incident had occurred, but he lost his temper.— The Bench considered it a very bad case, and Fletcher was sentenced to one month’s imprisonment with hard labour.

21^st May 1910

BROSELEY.

DEATH OF MR. W. E. SOUTHORN.— On Thursday afternoon there quietly passed away in his 61st year, Mr. William Edwin Southorn of Simpson’s Lane, who, since the death of his father (Mr. Wm. Southorn) has carried on the old-established business of Messrs. Wm. Southorn and Co., tobacco pipe manufacturers. Deceased at one time held a seat on the Broseley District Council. In politics he was a staunch Conservative and a Churchman, and possessing a genial disposition, he was respected by a large circle of friends.

28^th May 1910

BROSELEY.

THE LATE KING.— Yesterday week the inhabitants of Broseley joined in the general mourning for the loss of King Edward. The shops and ether places of business were closed throughout the day, and the publicans closed from 12 till 6 o’clock. The people generally were sombre-clad, and blinds were drawn at nearly every house in the town.— The Church was appropriately draped in “Royal Purple” and great solemnity prevailed among the large congregation. Prior to the Service Miss Hilda Watkiss, L.R.A.M. (organist), gave a skilful rendering of Beethoven’s and Chopin’s “Funeral Marches”. The special form of service, No. 3, was taken by Rev, A. C. Howell, B.A. (rector), who also delivered an admirable address on “The World in Mourning,” referring in sympathetic terms to the great loss the nation has sustained by the death of the late lamented Sovereign. The anthem “Thou with keep him in perfect peace,” and the hymns, “O God our help in ages past”. “On the resurrection morning,” and “Now the labourer’s task is o’er’ were” sung with great taste and feeling by the choir, under the able direction of Mr. W. H. Griffiths (choirmaster). At the close of the service the organist gave a fine interpretation of the “Dead March” in “Saul”, during which the people stood, and as the congregation left the church Miss Watkiss played “O rest in the Lord.”— At the Wesleyan Chapel the pulpit and communion table were draped in black, the pulpit having tassels &c., of “Royal Purple”. The service, commencing with the words “I know that my Redeemer liveth”, was read with feeling by the Rev. W. A. Auld (Madeley), who also delivered an eloquent address, during which he ably reviewed the various periods in our national history, comparing Monarch with Monarch. In his opinion Edward VII. outshone them all for everything that made for the happiness, and prosperity of the nation. He said he was the best King that England had ever had, and was possessed of great tact, quick discernment, and sound practical judgment; but for more than anything else he would he remembered, and his memory cherished, as “Edward the Peacemaker.” The hymns “O God, our help in ages past,” “Note the labourer’s task is o’er,” and “Nearer my God to Thee”, and two verses of the National Anthem were effectively rendered by the choir; who, on Sunday evening gave a fine exposition of “Crossing the Bar.” The organist, (Mr. J A. Hartshorne) played before the service, “Peace perfect peace,” and at the closed the “Dead March”, “Saul”, the congregation standing with bowed heads.

A PRETTY WEDDING took place at All Saints’ Church, Broseley, when the contracting parties were Mr. John Inman (oldest son of Mr. and Mrs. Inman, Dunnington, Yorkshire) and Miss Edith Lister (only daughter of the late Mr. Thomas Lister and Mrs. William Bowyer of Broseley). The bride, who was given away by her step-father, Mr. William Bowyer, wore a lovely dress of white cashmere, trimmed with satin and embroidery to match; silk hat and veil trimmed with orange blossoms and white heather. She carried a bouquet of lilies-of-the-valley and narcissi. Her two little bridesmaids were Miss Maud Bowyer (step-sister of the bride) and Miss Ada Inman (sister of the bridegroom). They looked charming in white cashmere dresses, satin sashes, and hats to match trimmed with wreaths of pick roses. They also carried pink geraniums and narcissi, and wore gold merry-thought brooches (the gifts of the bridegroom). Mr. John Lister (cousin of the bride) attended as best man. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. A. C. Howell, B. A. (vicar of the parish), who afterwards gave an appropriate address. A reception afterwards took place at the bride’s mother’s house.

28^th May 1910

BROSELEY

PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.

AN OLD OFFENDER.- Henry Potts, labourer, Jackfield, was charged with game trespass.- Police-constable Reeves said he saw defendant at a rabbit burrow on land at Lady Wood, Broseley, in the occupation of C. A. Jones and Co. He saw three purse nets set for holes, and one was in defendant’s hand. Witness asked what he was doing there, and defendant replied that he was going to catch a rabbit. No one would give him work, and he could not starve. He also had a ferret in his pocket.— Defendant, who did not appear was fined 29s., including costs, in default one month’s imprisonment.

PITCH AND TOSS.— A youth named William Watson was charged with playing pitch and toss with another lad named George Walford on a Sunday morning at Broseley.— In proving the case, Police-constable Edwards said he had received several complaints of a gang or Broseley youths playing cards and pitch and toss on Sundays. In consequence of scouts they were hard to catch.— Defendant who said he did not pitch any money, was bound over to be of good behaviour for 12 months, and ordered to pay the costs.

11^th June 1910

BROSELEY.

THE LATE MRS. CROUDACE.— On Saturday Mrs. Elizabeth Ellen Croudace, wife of Mr. William Croudace, grocer, Maypole Road, Broseley Wood, passed away. Deceased, who was 74 years of age, was greatly esteemed, and much sympathy is felt for the bereaved husband and daughter. The remains were laid to rest in Broseley Cemetery on Wednesday. The service both in the church and at the graveside was conducted by the Rev. A. C. Howell. B.A. (rector). The mourners were:— Mr. W. Croudace (husband), Mr. Wm. Penson, (son-in-law), Master Wm. Penson (grand-son), Messrs. Henry Croudace, Moses Palmer, and S T. Instone (brothers-in-law;), Messrs. Henry Harvey, Wm. Instone, Thos. Instone, jun., Chas. Instone, and Harry Lloyd (nephews). Dr. Fox-Edwards was also present at the church and cemetery. Beautiful wreaths were contributed by the husband, “daughter and son-in-law,” “Willie and Dollie,” “Nieces and Nephews,” “Harry and Pollie,” “Sarah and Harry,” “Mrs. Minton,” “Mr. and Mrs. G. Harrison,” “Mrs. Leadbetter and May,” “Mr. and Mrs. H. Croudace,” “Mr. and Mrs. J. Hyman,” “Mr. and Mrs. C. Roden,” “Mr. H. Lloyd,” “Mrs Thompson,” “Mrs. Weakes,” “Mrs. Humphries,” “Mr. and Mrs. Bennett (Jackfield),” “Mr. Wm. Higgins,” and “Mr. Thos. Lloyd.”

11^th June 1910

MADELEY COUNTY COURT.

WEDNESDAY.-Before his Honour Judge Harris Lea.

MUSIC AND DISCORD.— William Henry Rickers brought in action against his father, Thomas Rickers, to recover the sum of £14 15s., being one-half of monies alleged to have been paid by plaintiff in respect of piano which was purchased from Mr. James Davies, of Broseley, in 1901, by William Onions, plaintiff’s uncle, who died after making a payment of only 20s. Alternatively plaintiff claimed a sale of the piano and an equal division with his father of the proceeds. Mr. Derry (Messrs. Thorn-Pudsey and Derry, Iron-Bridge) appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. J. Shawcross (Messrs. Carrane and Shawcross, Wellington) for the defendant. It was a short but complicated case, and in the face of it indicated family disagreement, the real issue being as to whom, after considerable vicissitude, the piano ultimately belonged.— The Judge, summing up, said he was always very sorry when these family cases were fought out so bitterly as the present one had been, but when people demanded law they were entitled to have it, but it must be strict law. It was quite clear in his mind that the piano never belonged to plaintiff, but to Mrs. Kate Farr, a married daughter of the defendant’s. The only claim plaintiff could have would be such money as he paid towards the balance of the purchase of the piano. There would be a verdict for defendant.

18^th June 1910

SHROPSHIRE COMPENSATION

AUTHORITY.

SUPPLEMENTARY MEETING.

A supplementary meeting of the above authority was held at Shrewsbury on Monday. Mr. R. Lloyd-Kenyon presided, and on the bench were also Messrs. R. G. Venables, C. T. Dugdale, W. H. Spaull, and F. Rawdon Smith. The compensation for the various licenses referred were fixed as follows:— The Fox Inn. Shakesford, £438 was claimed and the authority offered £400. The following are the corresponding figures in regard to other houses World’s End Inn, Church Stretton, £1,560, £650; Bell Inn, Leemore Common, £1,097, £300; New Inn, Trench, Wem, £734, £420,; George and Dragon, Bridgnorth, £552, £420; Cross Wine Vaults, Oswestry, £1,659 £700; Engine and Tender, Shrewsbury, £518, £350; Lake Head, Iron-Bridge, £460, £180; and Cross Keys, Broseley, £1,299, £520.

The Authority’s offers in respect to the Fox George and Dragon, and Lake Head were accepted.

9^th July 1910

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL,
WEDNESDAY.

Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman). Councillors J. Nicklin, T. I. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, T. S. Instone, and G. Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (rate collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).

FINANCES.— The Clerk read a statement of account, showing a balance in hand on the two accounts of £11 1s. 3d., and the Chairman remarked that there was £105 to be paid out in bills.— Mr. Oakes said there was yet £474 to be collected on the general district rate.— The Chairman thought that they should press on with the collection of the rate.— Mr. Keay did not believe in pushing the people too much. There were, he said, plenty of empty houses at Broseley, as well as poverty.

A CONDEMNED HOUSE.— With reference to a house that was condemned at the last meeting, Mr. Keay, said he had seen the landlord, who stated that the nuisance was caused through the water running from off the main road. He did say he should sue the Council for loss of rent.— Mr. Herbert said the house was built in the ground, and would always be damp. —The officer was instructed to visit the place again.

ASHPITS.— With reference to the proposed removal of an ashpit at Back Alley, a letter was read from Miss Bathurst, claiming the site, stating that she should require some acknowledgment, and have power to remove it if it should become a nuisance.— Mr. Instone presented a petition praying for the removal of the ashpit. He said it was a big nuisance to his house, and he was of opinion that the property where it was proposed to remove the ashpit was not Miss Bathurst’s.— It was decided to remove the ashpit, and the clerk was instructed to write Lord Forester’s agent, asking to whom the property belonged.— Mr. Keay said the ashpits in general were not emptied as regularly as they should be.— After some conversation it was decided to call the contractor’s attention to the matter.

TENDERS for hauling stone, &c., from Iron-Bridge station for one year were considered, and Mr. T. Instone, junr’s being the lowest, it was accepted.

THE WAY TO BROSELEY.— Mr. Keay proposed that a finger-post be erected at the foot of Ball’s Lane, showing the road to Broseley.— Mr. Nicklin: Where else would they go?— Mr. Keay: Why, a good many go to Jackfield. Some people never see Broseley. (Laughter.) Let us have a bit of trade this side. Why, yesterday I saw a three-wheel motor going up the hill with German yeast. (Laughter.)— Mr. Griffiths thought the best plan would be for people to call at the “Summerhouse,” and ask the best way to the part of Broseley they wanted to go to. (Laughter.)— Mr. Keay: Broseley is a quiet little spot; they could shoot up streets and hurt no one. I am living, and want to see someone else alive.— On the motion being put to the meeting, two voted for it and two against it.— Mr. Keay: We are equal. Now, Mr. Chairman, give your casting vote.— The Chairman: The question will be deferred till the next meeting.— Mr. Keay: Everything I bring forward you always try to put a stop to. I pay rates as well as other people.— The Chairman: You have had your say and voted. Why not be satisfied?— Mr. Keay: I shall not be satisfied until I am put six feet below. (Laughter.). I want to do the best I can in this world. I don’t care much about the next. I am neither a Liberal nor Conservative; I only want to do what is right.— The dialogue thus concluded.

30^th July 1910

WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL.

The quarterly meeting was held on Thursday, the Right Hon. Lord Forester (mayor) presiding.

BOROUGH RATE. Alderman Dyas proposed that a borough rate of 1½d. in the pound be levied for the quarter, and this was carried.

REFORM NECESSARY.- Alderman Dyas said that at present the letters were only delivered four times a week at Little Wenlock, and he proposed that the town clerk write to the Postmaster-General, asking for a six days’ delivery.— Captain Forester seconded, and it was carried.

ASYLUM MATTERS.- Alderman Cooke presented the half-yearly report of the visitors to the Joint Lunatic Asylum. He stated that the Home Secretary had given his consent to the dissolution with the county and Montgomeryshire, but they could not agree as to what sum should be paid over, and the matter was left in the hands of a committee. He added that there had been spent on the asylum £170,000. There were 891 lunatics, to being chargeable to the Madeley Union. He went on to say that the asylum would have to be brought up-to-date. He moved the adoption of the report, which was carried.

THE ROAD TO THE SANATORIUM.— Alderman Beddoes presented the main roads report, which recommended that the town clerk be instructed to apply to the County Council for a grant to improve the road from Much Wenlock to the Sanatorium at Shirlett. He said they considered it was hard for the Barrow ward to put this road in a proper state of repair. The Sanatorium was a county matter, and they thought the County Council or the Sanatorium Authority should put the road in a proper state of repair. He moved the adoption of the report.— Alderman Davies seconded.— Alderman Cooke asked if they were adopting a right plan in going about the business and suggested that they go to the Sanatorium Authority first, and then if they failed, they could apply to the County Council.— The clerk was subsequently instructed to ask the Sanatorium Authorities to take over the road.

OVERSEERS BEHIND.— The Town Clerk was instructed to write to the overseers of the poor, informing them that proceedings would be instituted for the recovery of the borough rate if not paid over by the date mentioned in the precept.

ROADMEN’S PAY SYSTEM.— After some discussion it was decided to alter the mode of paying the roadmen their wages, which means that the roadmen will now be paid personally by the surveyor.

FREE BRIDGE AT JACKFIELD.— Mr. Maddox moved “That the Council make a grant of a sum of money towards the cost of the erection of the new bridge at Jackfield”. The scheme, he said, had been a struggling one. The foundation stone was laid with Haynes’s legacy of £642, which was generously handed over by the Madeley District Council. The bridge had proved a boon, and was used by people from Broseley, Madeley, and other parts of the borough. The bridge connected two wards, Madeley and Broseley, and he thought they would readily agree that it was by far the greatest boon in the borough, and therefore he was of opinion that the Borough Council should practically show some little support. The scheme cost £2,000, and there was a balance of £350, including the proposed compensation to be paid the late ferry proprietor, which they were all anxious to settle. He asked the Council to make a grant of £100, which meant three-eighths of a penny rate.— Mr. Webster seconded the motion.— Captain George Forester moved as an amendment “That until Miss Oswell, the late ferry proprietor, was compensated, this Council decline to make a grant towards the bridge”. He believed that the landings were given on that condition, and yet Miss Oswell had not received any compensation at all. He considered that the lady should be compensated.— Mr. Griffiths concurred with the last speaker. He thought the Bridge Committee had been too precipitate; they should first have been certain of the money before they began to build. Had they probably waited a little longer they would not have been asked to pay anything. According to the plate it was a memorial bridge, “To the glory of B. Maddox, mayor, and Haynes, who, left the legacy”. (Laughter.)— Mr. Nicklin said that when they were asked to make any contribution out of the public purse, they must consider the ratepayers, and whether it was really within their business to spend money in that particular direction. He objected to the proposition. Whilst there was a committee, he contended that it was a great deal a one-man show, and he understood that nothing was to come out of the rates. (Hear, hear.) They were not bridge builders, although this particular bridge was a boon and a great blessing to certain people. Mr. Maddox had said in that chamber that he would not ask for anything. They thought he would do that. The bridge, he said, was a boon and also a luxury and people could have gone on paying. It was the principle he objected to. If they passed the resolution, they would simply be asking Miss. Oswald to contribute towards that which took away her living. The same argument applied with the Bridge Trust. There ought, he contended, never to have been any need for this appeal. There was undue haste in doing a good thing.— Mr. Legge said he could not support the motion, and he was of opinion that Haynes’s legacy could have been put to better use.— Alderman Cooke was of opinion that the bridge was to be built entirely on voluntary lines. He should oppose the motion.— Replying. Mr. Maddox said that he had taken up the cause for the worker and his greatest reward was in knowing that he had done his best. He sought no glorification. He added that the largest ratepayer in the borough was entirely in favour of the Council in dealing with this matter.— Six voted for Captain Forester’s amendment and seven against— On Mr. Maddox’s motion being put, four voted for it and 13 against, and the motion was thus declared lost.

30^th July 1910

BROSELEY.

SUDDEN DEATH.— A farm labourer named Frederick Sherwood, died in a fit on Friday night, last week, but in consequence of deceased having lately been medically attended, the coroner did not think an inquest necessary. Deceased was 44 years of age, and leaves a wife and three children.

SCHOOL TREAT.— On Saturday the children attending the Congregational Sunday School had their annual treat. The teachers and scholars assembled in the schoolroom, and afterwards proceeded to a field lent by Mr. Wm. Roberts, where cricket, tug-of-war, races, &c., took place, until tea was announced, when they again adjourned to the schoolroom, upwards of 100 sitting down to substantial repast. The requirements of the juveniles were attended to by the various teachers and friends, who in their turn partook of tea, after which the field was again resorted to, and the games continued with renewed vigour. The superintendent (Mr. R. Bunnagar), teachers, and friends were most zealous in their endeavours to promote the enjoyment of the children, in which they were eminently successful. Bags of sweets, buns, and biscuits were distributed to the children on leaving for home.

DEATH.- There passed away on Thursday last week well-known figure in the person of Thomas Bentley, at the age of 74. He had done many years of service for the Forester family on the Willey estate as gamekeeper, and was well known to local sports-man. He had been a member of “Nordley” Court, A.O.F., for a period extending over 45 years, and was followed to the grave by members of the “Nordley” and Broseley Courts to pay their last tribute of respect. The remains were interred on Saturday at Barrow Church the service being conducted by the Rev. Mr. Reeder (curate). The mourners were:— Brothers, William and George; sons, Will and Tom; grandson, Edward; daughters, Sarah, Jane, Marla, and Nelly, granddaughter, Florrie; son-in-law, H. Roberts, J. James; keepers, Kitson, senior, Charlton Botfield, Kitson, junior, Captain Forester, Mr. Hamilton (estate agent), and others. The service of the Order of Foresters was read at the grave by the “Nordley” Court secretary.

20^th August 1910

IRON-BRIDGE.

THE SANATORIUM.— Mr. J. W. White presided on Monday at a meeting of the Angling Association, when it was decided to subscribe the sum of two guineas towards the Shropshire Sanatorium.

DEATH OF RETIRED STATIONMASTER.— Mr. Chas. W. Coldicott died somewhat suddenly on Sunday. Deceased was 66 years of age and for nearly half of his life held the post of stationmaster at the Iron-Bridge G. W. Railway Station, retiring about 4½ years since on a well-earned pension. He was highly esteemed by the general public, who on his retirement showed their appreciation of his services by presenting him with a handsome testimonial. Mr. Coldicott was a Conservative in politics, and a most consistent Churchman. For many years he was church-warden at Benthall Church, where the funeral took place on Wednesday. The Rev. J. W. Johnson (Little Wenlock) conducted the service, in the absence of the Rev. W. A. Terry (vicar). The procession left the residence in the following order:— Bearers, Messrs. E. Roper, S. Evans, J. Gardiner, J. Evans, J. Rothin, Mullard; hearse, containing the coffin which was of English oak with brass appointments, upon the breastplate engraved: — “Charles William Coldicott, died August 14th. 1910, aged 66 years”; 1st coach, Mrs. Coldicott (widow), Miss Coldicott (daughter), Messrs. John and Charles Coldicott (sons); 2nd coach, Mr. Hy. Coldicott (brother), Mr. J. A. Harper (Ealing), Mr. R. G. Eaton, Mr. W. H. Price, and Mr. Lafford (being representatives of G. W. Railway and R. T. Smith and Co.), and Mr. Lawrence Dixon; Mr. William Jones, Mr. Adam J. Jones, Mr. Joseph Lloyd, Mr. H. Wilson, &c. Among those present at the church were:— Mr. G. C. P. Heywood (church-warden), Mr. A. H. Thorn-Pudsey, Mr. E. G. Exley, Dr. Fox-Edwards, Mr. Wylde, Mr. Southorn, Mr. E. A. Abberley, Mr. and Mrs. Jos Oakley, Mr. W. Cross, and others. Wreaths and flowers were sent by Mrs. Coldicott and family, Mr. and Mrs. J. Coldicott, Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Heywood, Mr. and Mrs. Price, Mr. and Ms. J Hudson, employees of G. W. Railway Company and R. T. Smith and Co., the Rev. W. A. and Mrs. Terry, the Rev. J. Marsden and Wm. Edwards, Mr. George Potts, Mrs. Sandbach Parker, Mrs. W., Miss, and Mr. W. B. Allen, Miss M. Thomas, Misses Lloyd. Mr. William Jones and family, Messrs. Gardiner and Evans (Wenlock) Mrs. Stephan, Mrs. T. J. Griffiths, Mr. and Mrs. Whitmore and family, Mr. and Mrs. W. Cross.

20^th August 1910

BROSELEY.

HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY. This society will hold their 20th annual flower show on Wednesday and Thursday next, when there will be several side shows, whilst a good band will play for dancing.

PEA SHOW.— An excellent sweet pea show was held on Saturday at the Napoleon Inn, when the exhibits were admired by a large number of people. Mr. Jones gave, satisfaction as judge, and Mr. J. Brown proved an efficient secretary. The prize-winners were:— Six distinct varieties- 1 J. Roden, 2 R. Taylor, 3 H. Bowen. Three varieties- 1 R. Taylor, 2 S. Minton. Any variety— 1 H. Bowen, 2 E. Humphries.

27^th August 1910

LINLEY

CHOIR TRIP.— The members of the church choir on Saturday journeyed by special train to Blackpool, and spent an enjoyable day. The principal donors were Mrs. Wooler (Linley Hall), Lord Forester, and the late rector.

27^th August 1910

BROSELEY.

OBITUARY.— After a long period of intense suffering, borne with great fortitude, Miss Jane Julia Thorn quietly passed away at her residence, “Fifield,” Broseley, on Thursday. The deceased lady was 62 years of age, and was the seventh and youngest daughter of the late Mr. John Thorn of Whitehall, Broseley. Her many acts of kindness to the poor of the parish, to whom she was most generous, will long be remembered by them.

DEATH OF AN OCTOGENARIAN.— One of the oldest inhabitants of Broseley (Mr. Richard Aston) quietly passed away on Saturday last, at the residence of his son, Mr. George Aston, High Street, Broseley. Deceased, who was in his 87th year, had many quaint tales to tell of his early days. Speaking of the time when coalfields abounded in the district, he would relate with much gusto incidents connected with his peregrinations, through Corvedale, &c., collecting money for his father (Mr. James Aston), who was a colliery proprietor for some years. There were no cycles in those days, all travelling had to be done on “Shank’s Pony”, in all sorts and conditions of weather, making it difficult and sometimes impossible for the pedestrian to proceed on his journey. The remains of deceased were laid to rest in the cemetery on Wednesday. The service was conducted by the Rev. A. O. Howell, B.A. (rector). The mourners were Messrs. James, Richard, George, and Samuel Aston (sons). Henry Aston, James Garbett, and Reynolds (nephews), and Albert Taylor. Deceased was the oldest member both in age and membership of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge of Oddfellows, M.U., and as a mark of respect a contingent therefrom attended the funeral attired in the usual regalia of the Order. The address prescribed by the Order was read at the graveside by Mr Ernest Hayward, N.G., of Broseley.

3^rd September 1910

MR. JOHN RANDALL, MADELEY,
TELEGRAM FROM THE KING.

Mr. John Randall of Madeley, Salop, who celebrated his hundredth birthday on Thursday, received hundreds of letters and post-cards, and over forty telegrams of congratulation, the following being from His Majesty:-

“The King having heard that you have attained the great age of a hundred, commands me to offer you his sincere congratulations and trusts that you are in good health.— A. Bigge”.

The Union Jack was flown on the Church tower and the bells rang in Mr. Randall’s honour, and he was the recipient of numerous gifts from relatives and friends.

ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF AGE,
MR. JOHN RANDALL F.G.S., OF MADELEY.
ARTIST, AUTHOR, AND SCIENTIST.

“This is my first century”- humorously re-marked Mr. John Randall of Madeley to a JOURNAL representative who spent a pleasant hour with “Shropshire’s Grand Old Man”, when he was celebrating his hundredth birthday on Thursday. Mr. Randall was sitting in his armchair smoking a good cigar, with a glass of old port by his side, and he was as happy as a schoolboy, full of interesting reminiscences and laughed heartily as he related many amusing incidents which his retentive memory enabled him to dole out to those who had assembled at his residence to offer hearty and sincere congratulations.

Mr. Randall’s bright and well written articles, full of literary merit, which he has contributed to the columns of the JOURNAL for over half a century, have been read with the keenest interest. He attributes his great age to a splendid physique, an even temperament, and a well-stored mind which even now affords him food for thought and pleasant reminiscence. It has been a long life, and a busy one, and when in June last year he was made the first freeman of the Borough of Wenlock, it was only a fitting honour paid to one of Shropshire’s most worthy sons.

Born at Lady Wood, Broseley, on September 1st, 1810, Mr. Randall began work for his uncle, Mr. Martin Randall who had a pottery work at Madeley, and there, in 1828, he was apprenticed. He rapidly mastered the art of painting on porcelain, and, after spending two years at the Royal Rockingham works in Yorkshire, he joined the famous Coalport firm in 1835, and remained in their employ until failing eyesight compelled him to give up the work in 1881. His work at Coalport was chiefly the painting of birds, and he was soon recognised as the leader in this branch of art. A great observer of bird life he succeeded in breaking away from conventions, so that each plate or vase that passed under his brush became a perfect and life-like study.

“When did you first take an interest in geology?” the pressman asked.

“It was early in life”, he replied, “and I did it as a hobby. The first practical use I was able to make of my knowledge was to reverse the judgments of the Ordnance Survey Authorities respecting a stretch of rocks on the banks of Linley Brook near Bridgnorth. The surveyors had mapped this out as strius, or new red sandstone, whereas I proved it to be old red or Devonian. This I made known, and the secretary of the London Geological Society wrote—‘Randall, you have made a great discovery’. I wrote a paper on the subject, and it was read by Professor Ramsay. The result was that I was elected a Fellow of the Royal Geological Society”.

At the great exhibition in 1851 Mr. Randall received a bronze medal for his collection of minerals and fossils, which was purchased for the nation by Sir Henry de la Beche, part finding a home in the British Museum, and others being exchanged with the curator of the Jardin des Mantes, Paris. In 1867 he was sent by the Society of Arts to the Paris Exhibition, where he reported both on pottery and the manufacture of iron. His report was printed in extenso in the “Times”, and the editor, Mr. Delane, complimented him very highly upon it in a leading article. Soon after this he was invited by Lord Robert Montague, then head of the Board of Trade, to accept a post at the British or South Kensington Museum, but he decided to remain in his native county. Further service to the science of geology was rendered by Mr. Randall by his discovery of a rich collection of fossils between Caradoc and Llandilo formation. These were referred to in Sir Robert Murcheson’s fourth edition of Siluria. It is as an authority on the coalfields of Shropshire that his geological work is best known.

New Coal Seams Discovered.

“I was able to render some help,” said Mr. Randall, “to landed proprietors and others wishing either to make new ventures or extend their mining operations. Sometimes, they were encouraged to proceed by the ad-vice I gave, and at other times they were told it was no use spending money on fruitless efforts. It was on my advice that the Madeley Wood Company extended their operations in the direction of Kemberton. The late Mr. Anstice asked me if he could find a new coal-field. I told him to sink a shaft on the other side of Kemberton Brook. He set the men to head that way, and he found the coal continued. The company then sank a shaft which has proved the most profitable in the coalfield. The late Mr. Thomas Horton, who was manager for the Lilleshall Company, sent to me at Coalport specimens of their borings. He said they did not know where they were, as the formations they had gone through in sinking were new to them. I said “Go on: you have got into the red rock of the upper coal measures”. They did as I advised, and the opening of the Granville Pit was the result. At a banquet at which the late Earl Granville, then principal shareholder of the Lilleshall Company, was present, I was asked to point out to the Earl the extent of the coalfield on the east. I readily did this, and Earl Granville must have remembered that when he selected me in 1881 as the Postmaster at Madeley”.

Mr. Randall took great interest in ascertaining the appearance of the surface of the earth at different periods of the world’s history, for which purpose he began with the lower Silurian, and fought his way upwards to the present surface. He sold a collection of his fossils to the trustees of the Wolverhampton Free Library; and another, when his sight began to fail him, and he could no longer take interest in examining them, to the Principal of Wellington College.

Chaplain as Coal-Eater.

Among the many breezy anecdotes related by Mr. Randall was one concerning the chaplain to the late Lord Hill. Mr. Randall was consulted by Lord Hill on the subject of seeking coal on the latter’s estate at Hawkstone. He gave it as his opinion that coal could not be found there. Lord Hill said—“There is coal on the estate, and some has been found”. Mr. Randall convinced him that he was wrong, and the men stopped work at six o’clock the same day. Lord Hill’s chaplain also remarked that he would eat all the coal found on the estate. Nothing more was said, but some time later at lunch a dish was set before the chaplain, and on lifting the cover he found a lump of coal. “You said you would eat all the coal found on the estate. Now, that was found here”, said Lord Hill. The chaplain replied that he was not prepared to eat every lump of coal dropped on the road by lazy waggoners”.

An Interesting Incident.

Mr. Randall related a rather amusing story respecting the evidence which he gave before a committee of the House of Lords when the Bill for the construction of the Severn Valley Railway was opposed by a railway magnate on the ground that it was impossible to pass Rookery Wood, and if a cutting were made the whole would slide down into the Severn. One side contended that it was a swamp— a moving mass of loose earth, and the other that it was only a slippery clay, moistened by a rill from some undrained land above, and resting upon a solid structure of sandrock.

“To settle this last point”, said Mr. Randall, “we were employed to go down to examine the ground, to have borings made, and to report upon the geological relation of the ground to surrounding strata. This was easy enough, but the difficulty was in convincing the Committee of the Lords that the produce of the borings made by both sides, each having the general appearance of clay, was not clay, but chippings of solid rock ground by the borer into a fine material resembling clay. This we succeeded in doing, first by explaining the process of boring, secondly by washing away the muddy parts and exposing the angular fragments of rock broken off by the borer, also by producing portions of the rock itself from the outcrop. The Bill passed the Committees of both Houses. When defeated the local landowner actually cut down afterwards some fine trees on the side front of the hall next the river to get a better view of the running trains, thus showing the factious nature of the opposition. The preliminary expenses, including those of litigation, were so great that three proposed bridges—one at Shrewsbury to cost £10,000, one at Bridgnorth to cost a similar sum, and another at Quatford to cost £8,000— were abandoned; and by reducing the undertaking to a single line, the estimates were brought down from £600,000 to £363,000”.

More Stories,

“When I came from Madeley”, Mr. Randall stated, “an old woman, flat footed, carried the letters in a market basket, and it took her all day to deliver them. Indeed, she was not particular in making the delivery in one day. A letter I expected at Coalport was a day late, and when it was duly handed to me the old lady said:- “That was the only letter for Coalport, and I was not going to make a purpose journey for one letter.”

“I remember the time” said the veteran, “when bull baiting took place in the district, and when badgers were found on Benthall Edge. The Rev. Charles Whitmore (Rector of Stockton) used to hunt a great deal, and often rode to Melton Mowbray to hunt.”

Another good story was told respecting a local clergyman. The members of the congregation had assembled, and the cleric made the announcement, “There will be no service here today, as the parson is going to dine with a paper merchant.”

A hunting parson had a clerk who was a tailor and made the rector’s hunting breeches. He was told to stay away from church one Sunday to make a new pair of breeches. “D— the church”, said the parson, “you make my breeches to-day.”

The Old Coaching Days.

“We had some exciting times in the old coaching days. As many as 18 coaches a day passed through Shifnal. Madeley was very different in those days to what it is now. There were all gorse bushes from the Horse Shoe to the Park Inn. I remember the railway being made from Manchester to Liverpool, and when Mr. Huskisson of the Board of Trade was knocked down by an engine and killed.”

Repeal of the Corn Laws.

Mr. Randall took a prominent part in the agitation for the Repeal of the Corn Laws, at a time when Sir Henry Lucy was connected with Shropshire journalism, “The land was not half cultivated then”, said Mr. Randall. “In this parish they could only get 20 bushels to the acre, and Mr. Fletcher is now getting as much as 40 bushels to the acre off the same farm. I am still as strongly in favour of Free Trade as I was then. Although most of my friends have gone over to the Unionist cause, I have stuck to my old love.”

Mr. Randall has seven children—four daughters and three sons—and seven of his children and grandchildren are holding positions under the Government.

“The colliers of the district are very much superior now to what they were when I was a young man, and the drinking habits of the people are not nearly so bad as they were in old days.”

At the time of the Chartist riots, Mr. Randall stated that a man used to walk from Coalport and Madeley to Birmingham for a copy of Cobbett’s Register.

Ourselves.

Mr. Randall added:- “I have been a contributor to the JOURNAL from the time it was but a very small paper. It has now become the leading journal of the county, and has a vast circulation outside its borders. My contributions are perhaps best known under the title of “The Ancestral Homes of Shropshire”, under the nom de plume of “Historicus”, which was chosen for, me by Mr. Leake the proprietor of the JOURNAL, and brought me into contact with the representatives of the oldest families in Shropshire, whom I found most willing to give me information.”

A series of articles under the title of “Along the Border.” which appeared in the JOURNAL only two years ago, was the latest contribution of importance from Mr. Randall’s pen.

Other Writings.

Mr. Randall employed his leisure in lasting contributions to the history of his county, as the following list of his books will show— “The Severn Valley.” which passed through two editions; “Old Sports and Sportsmen”; “The History of Madeley”; “The History of Broseley”; “Life of John Wilkinson”; “Clay Industries of Shropshire”; guides to Wenlock and Bridgnorth, &c. At the age of ninety Mr. Randall contributed the section on the “Arts and Industries of the County” to the first volume of “The Victorian History of Shropshire,” published by Constable and Co.

Before the pressman left Mr. Randall, he wrote his name on a recent photograph, which he presented to the JOURNAL representative, remarking. “Now this is my first and last century. Make the best of your article.”

10^th September 1910

BROSELEY.

BURIAL BOARD, Wednesday. — Councillor T. J. Griffiths presided— Mr. F. H. Potts (clerk) reported that Mrs. Dixon had paid £5 8s. 8d. in fees for the quarter. There was thus a balance in hand of £7 13s. 6d.— The business transacted was of a formal character.

DEATH OF AN OCTOGENARIAN.— On the 28th ult. there passed away at her residence Walsall Wood, Staffordshire, Mrs. Mary Ann Bullock, widow of Mr. Samuel Bullock. Deceased was 84 years of age, and both she and her late husband were, natives of Broseley, the latter having been a member of the Birch Meadow Baptist Church for some years. On Friday last week the remains of Mrs Bullock were laid to rest in the family vault at Birch Meadow Chapel, Broseley. Mr. James Gilpin (Iron Bridge) officiated. The mourners were, Mr. William Oakes and Mr. Wm. Parry (grandsons), Mrs. S. Evans (grand-daughter), Mrs W. Oakes (grand-daughter-in-law), and Mr. Charles Jesse.

DISTRICT COUNCIL.- WEDNESDAY

Present:— Councillors T. I. Griffiths (chairman), A. A Exley and Geo. Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Abberley (water inspector), and E. Oakes (rate collector).

THE CONDEMNED HOUSE. A letter was read from Mr Nicklin, who was unable to be present, stating that he had visited the condemned house in Broseley Wood, and thought the work to be done there with regard to the water was a simple matter. He was of opinion that the owner should put the house in a fairly habitable condition.— The Chairman said that that was his sentiment also.— Mr. Keay was of opinion that they should have this kind of house for a certain class of people.— The Chairman remarked that the watercourse belonged to the house, and that the owner should put it in order.— The clerk was instructed to write to the owner, stating that the Council would do what they could in the matter.

GAS SUPPLY. — A letter was read from Broseley Gas Co., stating that owing to the rise in the price of coal they were unable to reduce their terms, 29s. per 1,000 hours, for supplying the public lamps with gas.- The Chairman said that the Council must accept the company’s terms or have the town in darkness.— It was decided to accept the tender.

REPORTS.- Mr. Herbert reported a case of diphtheria in Simpson’s Lane. He also reported a number of nuisances, and the usual orders were made. — The Clerk reported a balance in hand on the two accounts of £270 Cheques, he said, were required that day for £60, and these were ordered to be signed.

The Collector stated that there was still £162 to be collected.— Mr Oakes was instructed to take proceedings for the recovery of the rates after seven days’ notice.— Mr Abberley reported that he had inspected all the water mains in Broseley and Jackfield, and found them in good working order and free from leakages. He reported that Jackfield conduits were out of repair, and thereby caused a waste of water.— The inspector was instructed to look into the matter.

AN APPLICATION.— Mr. John Moran (Broseley Wood) appeared before the Council, and asked the committee to erect a water tap between the Seven Stars and Legge’s Hill.— Mr. Abberley said that the expense would be very small, and the application was acceded to.

17^th September 1910

PRESENTATION AT
JACKFIELD.

THE RECTOR’S RETIREMENT

On Saturday evening a very interesting event took place in Jackfield Schoolroom, when the parishioners and friends of the late rector, the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, presented to him a purse of gold (£30) and a beautifully-illuminated album, containing a list of the names of some 200 subscribers to the testimonial, in recognition of his services, and as a mark of their respect and esteem. The function was preceded by an excellent tea, given to the children of St. Mary’s Church Sunday School, and followed by a tea at which a goodly number of church officials, teachers, and friends sat down.

After tea the meeting was presided over by the rector’s warden, Mr. C. H. Hughes, who, in opening the proceedings, said: “You all are well aware for what purpose we are gathered together today, which is to present our late rector, the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, with a purse of gold, to mark the sense of our appreciation of his work in the parish for a period of 17 years, and also to wish him God-speed for the success of his future work in any field where he may be called, and earnestly to pray for God’s blessing to rest upon his labours. (Applause.) We all deeply regret that, owing to the failure of his health, he has had to follow the advice of his medical advisers, and resign the living of Jackfield, where he has laboured so long, and you all, I think, will endorse with me the words of the aged Apostle, St. John, recorded in his 3rd Epistle— “Beloved, I pray that in all things thou mayst prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth”.” (Applause.)

The Chairman then called upon Mr. William Jones, the oldest parishioner, and a fervent helper and well-wisher of the church, to make the presentation to Mr. Edwards. This was done by Mr. Jones, accompanied by a few suitable words.

The Rector, in feeling terms, expressed the pleasure it gave him to be present, with Mrs. Edwards and the Misses Edwards, amongst them that evening, and he heartily thanked them for the very handsome present of the purse, and album giving the names of the subscribers, which he should value above everything, as the expression of the good feeling which they all felt towards him. He also thanked the churchwardens, Messrs. W. H. Smith and C. H. Hughes, and sidesmen, Messrs. W. Hudson, J, Hearn, and G. T. Williams, and also Messrs. F. Poole and P. Price, as representing the members of the choir, and Mr. Sydney Williams (superintendent of the Sunday School) representing the scholars, for the great energy which had been displayed by them in promoting the object of the meeting.

The tea tables were presided over by Miss Jones (The Calcutts) Mrs. W. H. Smith, Mrs. J. Hearn, Mrs. C. H. Hughes, Mrs. G. T. Williams, Mrs. H. D. Hughes, and other ladies, who rendered valuable help in the catering for the friends and children. After a few hymns suited to the occasion had been sung by all present, Mr. Edwards pronounced the Benediction, thus bringing to a close a pleasant social gathering, which will be long remembered in Jackfield.

24^th September 1910

BROSELEY.

WEDDING.—A very pretty wedding was celebrated in All Saints’ Church, Broseley, on Monday, between Miss Lucy Mason, eldest daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Mason of High Street, Broseley, Shropshire, and Mr. Alfred Leonard Furness, second son of the late Mr. J. T. Furness of Atherstone, Warwickshire. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. A. C. Howell, B.A. (rector). The bride, who was escorted by her father, and eventually given away by him, looked most charming in a dress of white silk, with Indian veil. Miss May Mason (sister of the bride) attended as bridesmaid, looking exceedingly pretty in a dress of white embroidered muslin, trimmed with turquoise, and sash to match. She also wore a large white hat with roses. Mr Ernest Walter Furness (brother of the bridegroom) acted as “best man.” Mr. and Mrs. Furness left later in the day for Birmingham, en route for London and Paris.

ANNIVERSARY.— The members of the Old Baptist Chapel on Sunday celebrated the 169th anniversary of the chapel, when Mr. Daniel Hall (Shifnal), was the preacher. At the evening service, Mr. P. Hartshorne rendered two solos. Mr. Sydney Gilpin presided at the organ. The congregations were large,

POTATO SHOW.— The first potato show was on Saturday held at the Napoleon Inn, where Mr. J. Brown superintended the arrangements. The prize-winners were:— kidneys— 1 W. Leadbetter, 2 H. Bowen, 3 F. Glove. Round— 1 S. Minton, 2 R. Taylor, 3 J. Williams. Kidney seed— 1 S. Minton, 2 H. Bowen. Round seed— 1 D. Minton, 2 S. Minton. Heavyweight— 1 E. Minton, 2 S. Minton. 3 H. Bowen. The quality of the potatoes was exceedingly good.

LONDON MISSIONARY SOCIETY.— The “John Williams” Van connected with this society arrived in Broseley, on the morning of the 15th inst., in charge of the Rev. T. Dixon Rutherford, M.A., and was located in a field adjoining Duke Street, lent by Mr. W. Roberts (Barber Street). In the evening Mr. Rutherford (in native costume) gave an interesting lecture on foreign missions (illustrated by diagrams showing the various stations occupied by the London Missionary Society), in the Congregational Church, under the presidency of Mr. Richard Bunnagar. A number of children attired in the costume of the various countries referred to in the lecture were also upon the platform. Curios were also exhibited and explained. On Friday evening week the lecture was repeated for the special benefit of the Sunday school children. Special hymns were sung on each occasion, Miss May Bunnagar presiding at the organ on the Thursday evening, and Mr. M. Amphlett on the Friday evening. Collections were taken in aid of the society.

FUNERAL.— On Saturday the remains of Mr. John Walter Smith, King Street, who died on the 13th inst., were laid to rest in Benthall Churchyard, the funeral service being conducted by the Rev. W. A. Terry (vicar). Deceased was 72 years of age, and was one of the oldest members of the Broseley Provident Society. In his earlier years he had been for a considerable time in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., Jackfield, after which he devoted himself to horticulture with a fair amount of success. He was greatly esteemed by all who knew him. The mourners were Messrs. T. Lloyd, H. Griffiths, W. Humphries, J. Rowe, J. Humphries, A. Humphries, J. Simmonds, W. Simmonds, P. Simmonds, and O. Norry.

WEDDING.— On Saturday a pretty wedding was celebrated in the Congregational Church, the contracting parties being Miss Lucy Alice Bunnagar (only daughter of the late Mr. Henry Bunnagar and Mrs. Bunnagar of Duke Street, Broseley) and Mr. Harry Whittington (eldest son of Mr. Samuel Whittingham of Red Lake, Ketley). The ceremony was performed by the Rev. J. Rhys Lewis (Dorrington). The bride, who was given away by her brother (Mr. Henry Bunnagar), looked exceedingly well in a costume of grey cloth, trimmed with grey silk, and hat to match, with orange blossoms, and white silk blouse. The bridesmaid— Miss Pattie Bunnagar (cousin of the bride)— also presented a very pretty appearance in a mole cloth costume, with hat to match, trimmed with moss roses. Bride and bridesmaid each carried a handsome shower bouquet (the gift of the bridegroom). The bride had been a member of Broseley Congregational Church and choir, also a teacher in the Sunday school, for some years, and was greatly esteemed. Mr. T. Whittingham (brother of bridegroom) acted as best man. Appropriate music was, played upon the organ by Miss Flo. Millward. At the conclusion of the ceremony the happy pair left, amidst the congratulations of their friends and showers of confetti, in a carriage and pair for Wellington, en route for Aberystwyth, where the honeymoon is being spent. The presents were numerous and useful.

1^st October 1910

A SEVERN MYSTERY.

BROSELEY MAILMAN FOUND DROWNED.

On Tuesday at Broseley Mr, Coroner F. H. Potts, held an inquest on the body of Edward Thomas (51), who was found drowned in the River Severn on the Jackfield side.

Charles Thomas, who lives in Rosand, South America, stated that he was on a visit to this country. He was a butcher by trade, and deceased was his brother. He had lived at Mr. T. S. Instone's (butcher), Broseley, and was employed as mailcart driver. Deceased had never mentioned to him about suicide.

Henry Potts, labourer, Jackfield, stated that about 6 o'clock on Monday evening he was sent for, and he went down by the water-side and opposite the Lloyds Head, Jackfield, he jumped into the Severn and swam to the body. Deceased head was facing down-wards, and going down the stream. It was in about five feet of water. His brother and two other men got the body out of the water. Deceased was fully dressed, minus cap. Witness was of opinion that deceased had been dead about a week.

Police-constable Reeves deposed that he identified the body as that of Edward Thomas. The face was covered with mud. He examined the body, and found no marks with the exception of a bruise on the temple, and scars on the hands. All that was in the pockets was a small pocket-knife and a handkerchief.

Thomas Instone, jun., butcher, High Street, Broseley, stated that deceased had been in their employ for some years, and drove the mailcart. The last time he was with them was on Monday week. After he returned from the mail he went to bed, and got up about 12 o'clock. In the afternoon he went to deliver some groceries at Broseley Wood, taking their horse and spring cart. Witness went with him to Mr. Croudace's, and then proceeded to the farm. Five minutes after he saw the horse walking down Ball's Lane with two broken shafts attached to the harness. Witness ran out and stopped the horse, and saw the cart at the corner of the lane with the groceries all over the ground. Deceased was standing by the cart, and in reply to him he said he was not hurt, and subsequently said, “I won't drive a horse again for anyone.” He then started to walk up the road in the direction of Broseley. Deceased had been rather unfortunate lately, having met with several mishaps.

Richard Clinton, landlord of the New Inn, Benthall, stated that on Monday week deceased came to his house, and called for a half-pint of beer, with which witness served him. He also had a half-pint of old beer, and another glass of ale. He afterwards left, and turned up the Mines in the direction of Benthall Edge. He never mentioned anything about an accident, but seemed to be thinking about something. He was a reserved man.

The jury returned a verdict of “Found drowned in the River Severn.”

The remains of deceased were interred in Broseley Cemetery on Wednesday. The Rev. A. C. Howell, B.A. (rector), officiating. The mourners were:— Messrs. Charles and Richard Thomas (brothers), Robert Thomas (nephew), Matthew Davis, Hayward Davis, Thomas Instone, William Instone, Thomas Instone (jun.), Chas. Instone, Henry Lloyd, W. Penson (Broseley), and Thomas Cooper (Wenlock). A number of beautiful floral tributes were sent by relatives and friends.

8^th October 1910

BROSELEY WOOD.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICES were held in the Primitive Methodist Chapel on Sunday when sermons were preached by Mr. Dunning, of Stoke, Staffordshire. Harvest hymns were sung, and a solo was given at each service by Mr. Dunning. Mr. Theo. Trevor (Madeley) presided at the organ. The chapel had been tastefully decorated with fruit, flowers, vegetables, wheat, &c., by Mrs. Jackson, Miss Davies, Miss Evans, Mr. A. Malpass, and others. The Rev. J. Brenthall preached on Monday evening to a good congregation, after which he and Mr. Malpas disposed of the fruit, vegetables, &c. The collections were in aid of the trust funds and were in advance of last year.

8^th October 1910

BROSELEY.

DISTRICT COUNCIL.—WEDNESDAY.

Present:— Councillors J. Nicklin (chairman), T. Doughty, T. D. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, T. S. Instone, G. Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (rate collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).

NO DISEASE.— Mr. Herbert stated that he had no nuisances to report, and that there was no notifiable infectious disease in the district.— The Chairman hoped scarlet fever would not visit them.— The Inspector remarked that the fever was nearly all over the country

THE CONDEMNED HOUSE.— With reference to the condemned house in Broseley Wood, Mr. Hinsley wrote stating that he only wanted done what was just and reasonable. — The Chairman contended that if they closed this house, other houses just as bad would also have to be closed.— Mr. Keay said he was of opinion that the land values would stop all new buildings.— The matter was indefinitely deferred.

A PLACE WANTED.— With reference to a public ashpit, a letter was read from Mr. Ledger objecting to the erection of a public ashpit on his property.— The surveyor was instructed to look out for another site.

GASWORKS AND MORE LIGHT.— The question of lighting all the public lamps in the main street with incandescent light was discussed, and the surveyor was instructed to see the secretary on the matter.— Mr. Keay wanted to know if they could not approach the Local Government Board with the view to borrowing money for the purchase of a gasworks.— The Chairman: We don’t want it.— Mr. Keay: What do we pay a year for gas.— Mr. Griffiths: I believe £200.— The Chairman. We cannot run gasworks on £200. Mr. Keay: I know that.— The Chairman: Bring the question forward next year. Personally, I am against municipal trading in a small way.— Mr. Keay: We should get our gas free.

THE WORST DELIVERY.— Mr. Instone proposed that the road at the Calcutts be fenced.— The Chairman said that it would cost £6.— There was no seconder.- Mr. Instone remarked that if there was an accident to the mail at any time, he should make a claim on the Council.— Mr. Keay complained of the late postal delivery. He said it was the worst delivery in the country.— Mr. Instone: If the mail gets upset you will have no letters at all. (laughter).

PUBLICANS DEFENDED.— The Collector stated that out of six rate-defaulters summoned four were publicans.— Mr. Keay said that he must defend the publicans. The licensing trade had been hit harder than any other. Through the increased licenses, many were on the verge of bankruptcy. He hoped that the Council would be lenient.— The Chairman said that they had no power to be lenient; they must get the money in.

A CRY FROM JACKFIELD.— Mrs. Ball and Mrs. Williams, Smoky, Road, Jackfield, attended the meeting, and asked for a water hydrant to be placed nearer their cottages.— The Chairman told the deputation that their application would be considered.— Mr. Abberley was ordered to make a report thereon at the next meeting

WATER.— Mr. Abberley reported all the water mains to be in good order.— Mr. Keay was of opinion that all water breakages at Jackfield should be repaired on a Sunday.— Mr. Doughty said that he should like to see Jackfield and Broseley independent of Madeley. Mr. Abberley was of opinion that to do that would cost about £150.- Mr. Keay considered that the work could be done cheaper than that.— The Chairman said it was an important matter to be considered, and he suggested that the subject be deferred until they had the new Board, which was agreed to.

15^th October 1910

MADELEY.

DISTRICT COUNCIL.— WEDNESDAY., Present:- A. B. Dyas (chairman), W. J. Legge, and F. G. Beddoes, Councillors B. Maddox (ex. mayor), W. F. Bryan, W G. Dyas, J. E. A. Wolryche-Whitmore, W. Roberts, J. H. Webster, J. W. Owen, and F. E. Withers, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk). G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary, inspector), A. O. Callear (water inspector and collector), and Dr. Gepp (medical officer).

THE NEW BRIDGE.— Mr. Maddox presented the committee’s report with regard to the widening of the road near the new bridge. The Madeley Wood Co., he said, offered no objection to the proposed work. He moved that the surveyor be instructed to carry out the work of widening the road.— Mr. Withers seconded.— Mr. Bryan asked what would be the probable cost, and the Surveyor replied that it would be about £2. Ald. Legge did not think it fair for the ratepayers to bear this expense, now that a toll was being charged.— Ald. Beddoes did not think that it was a matter for the Bridge Committee.— Mr Maddox: I should like to ask Mr. Legge if he has been asked to pay a toll?— Ald. Legge: I don’t think I have.— Mr. Maddox: We are dealing with the road, and it is dangerous at the point mentioned.— Ald. Legge: It has answered from time immemorial, and ought to be good enough now. I contend that as the Bridge Committee were receiving compensation for going over the bridge they should do the work.— Mr. Bryan: There is no doubt but what the place is dangerous, but it is through the bridge being put there, and if the expense is only £2 it will come out of the ratepayers’ pockets.— The motion was carried. Ald. Legge did not vote.

22^nd October 1910

FARM FIRE AT BARROW
PROMPTNESS SAVES DISASTER

Early yesterday morning Captain the Hon. G. Forester was awakened by a noise, and found that the farm building not far from Barrow House was in flames. He raised an alarm, and with the aid of farm-hands and the use of an extinguisher, soon got the flames under. The fire originated at the kiln, where barley was being dried, and it was supposed to have been started by a smouldering beam. The farm is in the occupation of W. Bishop. But for the promptness of Captain Forester the whole of the buildings and much valuable produce would have been destroyed, as only several inches away a large quantity of straw was stored. The kiln was burnt out.

29^th October 1910

IRON-BRIDGE

PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.

Before Messrs. F. R. Smith (chairman), W. J. Legge, A. B. Dyas, F. G. Beddoes, W. Roberts, B Maddox, Dr. Collins, and Captain Geo. Forester.

JACKFIELD GROCER FINED.— Walter Davies, grocer, Jackfield, was charged with having in his possession a 2lb. weight, which was unjust and unstamped. —Mr. E. Symonds (inspector of weights and measures) prosecuted.— Thomas Whitlock, assistant inspector to the county of Salop, stated that after he had visited defendant’s shop, he went across to the warehouse, and found in use on a scale the 2lb. weight produced, which was nine drams deficient. It had never been submitted to an inspector. There were two other weights in the warehouse unstamped.— Defendant stated that he had no intention to defraud. He only used the weight in allowing a person the weight of a bag. -Davies was fined £1 1s. 4d., including costs, and advised to be more careful in the future.

5^th November 1910

BROSELEY.

LECTURE.— On Thursday an illustrated and highly, interesting lecture on “Personal Reminiscences of India,” was given by Alderman D. L. Prestage in the Victoria Hall, and was much appreciated. Mr. J. A. Downes occupied the chair. Preceding the lecture a well-arranged programme of music was gone through by the following:— Mrs. W. Davis, Mr. W. Davis, Mr. P. Price (Jackfield), and the Broseley Glee Party. Mr. G. Tonkiss, A.R.C.O., accompanied on the pianoforte.

INITIATION OF ODDFELLOWS.— This interesting function took place at a special meeting of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge of Oddfellows, M. U. (Lion Hotel), on Saturday, when Captain the Hon. George Forester, Dr. Boon, and Councillor Griffiths were initiated as ordinary members of the lodge. The ceremony was performed by J. W. White (Iron Bridge).- Captain Forester expressed the pleasure it gave him to be present on that occasion to become enrolled as a member of their Order. Mr. Shepherd, N. G. in an address, stated that the Order was making satisfactory progress; and Mr. T. C. Shingler gave lucid statement in regard to investments made the Order, which in his opinion were thoroughly safe and sound, and yielding good interest, thus increasing the confidence of the members and the public generally.

CANTATA.— On Wednesday an excellent rendering of the sacred cantata, “Daniel,” was given in the Congregational Church by the choir, assisted by a few friends, with orchestral accompaniment. The characters represented were:- Queen, Miss Hilda Quinn (soprano) Sister of Azariah, Miss Hattie Jones (mezzo-soprano); Azariah Mr. G. P. Bagley (tenor); King, Mr. W. Dodd (bass); Daniel, Mr. A. Williams (baritone); herald and first president, Mr. R. Bunnager (tenor); second president, Mr. J. Quinn (tenor). The “orchestra” was composed of Miss F. Millward, Messrs. Baldwin, E. Hartshorne, T. Ward, M. Amphlett, G. Baldwin, W. Ward, W. Baldwin, E. Baldwin, and C. Bartlam, T. Denstone, D. A. Roberts, T. Ball, and W. H. Bunnagar. The whole of the artistes acquitted themselves well. Mr. E. Harrison (Jackfield) ably conducted. There was a large attendance, the church being well filled. The proceeds are to be devoted to the Choir Fund.

DISTRICT COUNCIL.— WEDNESDAY.

Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors J. Nicklin, T. I. Griffiths, A. A. Exley, T. Doughty, and G. Keay, Mesas F. H. Potts (clerk), C Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (rate collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).

NO DISEASE.— Mr. Herbert informed the meeting that there was no infectious disease in the district, and that there was only one nuisance.

A NEW ORDER. — A letter was read from Dr. Gepp calling attention to the House Inspection Regulation Act, and asking the Council to make provision for a thorough inspection, and to designate an officer to make the inspection under the direction of the medical officer of health.— Mr Nicklin asked if these new regulations were compulsory upon them.— The Chairman considered that the inspector was already doing the work.— Mr Herbert said that there was more detail work.— The Chairman said were 87 clauses for every house, one, of which was to count the number of flies. (Laughter)— The Clerk said that the Order was absolutely compulsory.— Mr. Herbert was appointed the officer to carry out the work.

BETTER LIGHT.— The question of lighting up the district with incandescent light was considered, and on the motion of Mr. Keay, it was decided to advertise in the JOURNAL for tenders to supply 20 lampheads suitable for incandescent burners.— It was decided to take over the lamp (with permission of the church wardens) at the Rectory Wall and remove it to a more suitable site.

FINANCE.— The Surveyor reported that his expenditure for the past month was £53, and cheques were drawn in his favour for £40 (main roads) and £15 district roads. The Surveyor was instructed to attend to Legge’s Hill and Quarry Road.— The Clerk stated that there was a balance in hand on the two accounts of £200.— Mr. Oakes, said that the general district rate was cleared up.— It was decided to take proceedings against water-rate defaulters if their rates were not paid within a few days, although Mr. Keay thought they should not be too hard.— The Chairman said that the money must be got in.

WATER.- Mr. Abberley estimated the cost of removing the water hydrant to Smoky Road, Jackfield, at 30s. He was ordered to do the work. It was also decided to fix hydrants at ether place.

BETTER TRAIN SERVICES WANTED.— A letter was read from Mr. J. Maw (Jackfield), asking the Council to support his suggestions regarding the alteration in the train service on the Severn Valley Line, which the meeting decided to do.

POSTAL DELIVERY.— Mr. Keay again referred to the postal delivery in the town, and said that they were treated worse than a small village.— No action however, was taken in the matter.

12^th November 1910

BROSELEY,

DR. BARNARDO’S HOME.— On Friday afternoon and evening of last week an entertainment was given in the Town Hall by the Musical Boys from Dr. Barnardo’s Homes, in aid of the funds of that institution. In the evening the Rev. A. C. Howell, B.A. (rector), presided over a large attendance, and the Rev. M. Snelgrove (deputation secretary), delivered an interesting address on the work of the Homes, illustrated by beautiful lime-light views.

LECTURE.— On Wednesday the Wesleyans of the town partook of tea in the schoolroom, ladies of the congregation presiding at the tables, the object of the gathering being to bid farewell to their esteemed friend and minister (the Rev. W. M. Auld), who was leaving England for America to act as coadjutor to Mr. Cadman. After tea an adjournment was made to the chapel, where the Rev. W. M. Auld delivered an able lecture on “Darwin”, which was highly appreciated, and frequently applauded. Mrs. Davies (the Marsh) presided, and in a genial address expressed the regret of herself and the church and congregation at Broseley that Mr. Auld’s ministry among them had terminated. On the proposition of Alderman Davies, seconded by Mr. G. Higgins, vote of thanks was enthusiastically accorded to the lecturer, and on the proposition of Mr. J. E. Hartshorne, seconded by Mr. A. T. Hartshorne, a similar compliment was paid to Mrs. Davies. Mr. J. A. Hartshorne presided at the organ.

PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.

POACHING.- Thomas Rogers, William Owen. Iron-Bridge, and Harry Potts, Jackfield were charged with a breach of the Poaching Prevention act at Benthall.—Sergeant Morris stated that he was on duty in company with Police-constables Reeves, Edwards, and Thredgold, in the neighbourhood of Benthall Edge, and at 4-40 a.m. he saw the three defendants going along a public footpath leading across the Great Western Railway bridge from Benthall Edge to Benthall Ferry. Each was carrying a bag on his back. Suspecting that they were coming from land unlawfully in search of game, witness and Police constable Reeves made a rush from where they were concealed, and defendants ran towards the river. Potts dropped his bag on the footpath, and threw his net in the River Severn before he was seized by Police-constable Reeves. Witness and Police-constable Edwards seized Rogers and Owen. Witness searched them, and in Roger’s bag he found 6 rabbits. and one hare, and upon Owen there were 14 rabbits, a net 90 yards long, and also 21 pegs and a bludgeon. There were 19 rabbits in Potts’s possession, and a net 10 yards long. He seized them under the Poaching Prevention Act.— Defendants pleaded guilty, and were each fined £5 and costs, in default two months’ hard labour. The nets were ordered to be destroyed.- William John Harrison and John Bowen, young men, labourers, Broseley Wood, were brought up in custody charged with night poaching on land at Benthall, in the occupation of Mr. Allen, over which Mrs. Sandbach Parker has the shooting rights. Mr. R. R. Phillips (Shifnal) prosecuted.— William Benlin gamekeeper to Mrs. Sandbach Parker stated that he heard some rabbits squealing, and went in search of Police-constable Edwards and Police-constable Reeves, whom he met, and after some conversation they concealed themselves. He saw three men in the act of setting a rabbit net. Witness and constables made a rush for them. His man got away, and when he came back he found the constable had got the defendants. Bowen had in his possession one rabbit and six pegs. He found nothing on Harrison.— Police-constable Reeves and Police-constable Edwards gave corroborative evidence.—On account of their youth the Bench gave defendants another chance telling them that poaching was a dangerous game. They were each bound over under the First Offenders Act of good behaviour for 12 mouths, and to report themselves every month to Dr. Collins. They pay costs, £1 0s. 9d. each. Lord Forester did not sit the in the case.

19^th November 1910

BROSELEY.

Saturday there passed away somewhat suddenly Mrs. Betsy Ann Garbett (widow of Mr. John Garbett), Duke Street. Deceased was 74 years of age, and had carried on her late husband’s business after his death. The remains were laid to rest in the Cemetery on Wednesday. The service was impressively performed both in the church and at the graveside by the Rev. A. C. Howell, B.A. (rector). The mourners were: Messrs. Joe, Willie, and John Garbett (sons), Alfred Williams, Percy Dixon, and Percy Bagley (sons-in-law), Dennis Nevett, Wm. Nevett, and Thomas Lee (nephews). There was a large number of choice wreaths, contributed by relatives and friends.

19^th November 1910

NEW RECTOR OF JACKFIELD,
INDUCTION OF REV: B. DE RICCI.

An interested congregation was present on Wednesday night at the induction of the Rev. B. de Ricci, late senior curate at the Abbey church, Waltham, to the living of St. Mary’s Church, Jackfield. The service was conducted by the Rev. C. B. Crowe, R.D., vicar of Coalbrookdale, in the absence of the Archdeacon. Other clergy present were the Revs. B. de Ricci, A. C. Howell (Broseley), W. A. Terry (Benthall), and L. Bird (Leighton). The appointed lessons were read by the Revs. W. A. Terry and L. Bird. After an earnest address by the Rural Dean the newly-appointed rector took the prescribed oaths, and tolled the bell signifying to the parish his having taken possession. The Rev. C. B. Crowe based his remarks on the text, “O how amiable are Thy dwellings, O. Lord of Hosts.” He said he hoped that this was the way in which they thought of their services. The great secret of success was taking infinite pains in what they did. Often people who lived long distances, were the most regular and punctual in their attendance at church. He was sure that great care had been taken in the selection of a priest for that parish, and he hoped they would all support their new rector. How was the Church of England supported? he went on to say. It was supported by income from tithes, and special gifts by private persons, ecclesiastical commissioners, &c. Remember, he added, that no priest or clergyman was paid by the State. The clergy were paid out of the money left by those who had been her sons and daughters in the past. What was the Church of England doing today? She was giving something like six millions a year to the poor, charities, missions, hospitals, &c., whilst the endowments were something like three millions. The people should know the truth. She was a vigorous and living church, following the footsteps of her Lord, who went about doing good. During the singing of the hymn, “The Church’s one Foundation”, a collection was taken for church expenses. The choir was present, and Mr. V. Wilson presided at the organ.

19^th November 1910

A SHROPSHIRE CENTENARIAN,
DEATH OF MR. JOHN RANDALL OF MADELEY.

By the death of Mr. John Randall, F.G.S., of Madeley, a remarkable career has come to end. Mr. Randall was an artist, author, and scientist of considerable local repute. He celebrated the hundredth anniversary of his birth on September 1st last, and passed away on Wednesday morning, in the presence of members of the family, at the Post Office, Madeley, where he had for some years held the position of Postmaster.

A little over two months ago a representative of the JOURNAL spent a pleasant hour with Shropshire’s “Grand Old Man.” At that time his vitality was remarkable for a man a century old. He smoked a cigar, enjoyed a glass of old port, and talked the greater part of the time of his experiences, which were many and varied, during his long life. He had a wonderfully retentive memory, and reviewed incidents of his life from early childhood up to the first day of September, when he became a centenarian.

Probably nothing pleased Mr. Randall mere than the receipt of a telegram from the King, as follows:— “The King, having heard that you have attained the great age of a hundred, commands me to offer you his sincere congratulations, and trusts that you are in good health.— A. Bigge.” The old gentleman also received hundreds of letters and postcards and about fifty congratulatory telegrams, and that was probably one of the happiest days of his life.

An account of Mr. Randall’s career appeared in the JOURNAL recently and will probably be fresh in the memory of readers. He was honoured and revered by all who knew him. He led a busy life, and in June last year he was made the first freeman of the Borough of Wenlock. On that occasion Mr. Randall attended a banquet in his honour in the Anstice Memorial Institute. Madeley, and, although in his 99th year, he stood erect, and made a speech which created the greatest possible enthusiasm.

The late Mr. Randall loved his native county. Many inducements were held out to him to accept appointments elsewhere, but he rejected them all, and lived and died in Shropshire, held in the highest regard and veneration by hosts of friends, who regarded it as an honour to be acquainted with him. Mr. Randall attributed his attaining so great an age to a splendid physique, an even temperament, and a well-stored mind, which afforded him food for thought and pleasant reminiscence in the eventide of life.

His work at Coalport was chiefly the painting of birds, in which branch of art he was recognised as a leader. Each plate or vase that passed under his brush became a perfect and life-like study.

Mr. Randall’s books are very interesting reading, and “The Severn Valley” passed through two editions. In addition to gaining distinction as an artist and author, he took up the study of geology, and was able to render some help to landed proprietors and others in Shropshire wishing either to make new ventures or extend their mining operations.

Mr. Randall is survived by seven children—four daughters and three sons—and seven of his children and grandchildren hold positions under the Government.

The funeral will take place at Madeley this (Saturday) afternoon.

IN MEMORIAM.

Mine is no voice of grievance or of woe,

No tuning to the note of funeral knell,

No rebel murmur at his call, and so

Farewell, at last! yet not a sad farewell.

His lot was blessed with plenitude of years,

That brought not age, that palsied not his brain;

Gave grace to cherish all that life endears,

To see the right prevail and truth made plain.

How has he used them? Lo, his record clear,

Who in the centre sat—broad day enjoyed-

Plain written, in the sunlight, does appear,

Unsullied, unexcused, and unalloyed.

God gave him days beyond the common lot-

A curse to some, but him he gave as well

A boon that made them blessed; so, from us,

Farewell, at last! yet not a sad farewell.

BURTON CARVER.

26^th November 1910

THE LATE MR. JOHN RANDALL.
FUNERAL AT MADELEY.

A further tribute was paid to the late Mr. John Randall, F.G.S., the Shropshire centenarian, at the public funeral which took place at Madeley on Saturday afternoon. The flag on the Parish Church floated at half-mast, the business establishments in the town and district were partially closed, and blinds were drawn at private residences. The Mayor of the Borough of Wenlock (Alderman A. B. Dyas), members of the Corporation, borough officials, and representatives of other public bodies, and leading residents in the own and district attended to pay their last tribute to Shropshire’s “Grand old man”. It was a touching scene as the body was conveyed to its last resting-place in the Parish church-yard. As the church is only a short distance from the deceased’s late residence no carriages were used. The bearers were Messrs. T. Jones, F. Lees, J. Jones (Russell Road), Wallace Griffiths, W. Ward, Percy Jones (Russell Road), Albert Williams, and Joseph Oliver (The Avenue). On the coffin were several beautiful wreaths or other floral devices from members of the family. The mourners were— Mr. Russell Randall of Worcester (son), Mr. H. Randall, postmaster of Iron-Bridge (son), Mr. Cecil Randall of Kidderminster (grandson), Mr. Sydney Randall (grandson), Mr. W. Soloman of Shrewsbury (son-in-law), Mr. H. Brassington of Leek (nephew), and Mr. E. G. Hopwood (Horsehay). Others who joined the procession to the church, where the first part of the burial service was conducted by the Rev. F. B. Pryce (vicar of Madeley), assisted by the curate (the Rev. R. Gillenders), were:— Alderman Dyas (mayor), Dr. Droop, Captain the Hon. G. W. Forester, Mr. C. W. Pearce (Madeley Court), Aldermen Beddoes and Prestage, Councillors Bryan, Roberts, and B. Maddox, the Revs. J. J. Evans (Stirchley) and J. Richards. Messrs. J. W. White (borough treasurer), R. A. Sampson (postmaster of Wellington), T. Dorsett, A. G. Shum, G. Woodruff, C. Dyas, T. C. Shingler, J. Yorke, T. J. Jeffreys. W. Smith, J. Wilcox, J. D. Benbow A. A. P. Onians, J. Mason, T. Rowe, W. Wall (Coalbrookdale), H. A. Bryan, W. Wall, W. J. Johnson, J. Richards, A. Trevor. T. J. Bott, C. J. Williams (Wellington), W. Cooke, H. Childs, W. J. Evans (Dawley), W. Jenks, J. C. Cheadle, H. J. Jones, H. W. Thomas, W. Grepp (The Lloyds), W. P. Pope, Fred Jones, H. Shaw (Madeley), H. B. Skitt (Wellington), &c. The Rev. C. B. Crowe (vicar of Coalbrookdale) was unable to attend. Many beautiful floral devices were sent by relatives and friends. These included a beautiful wreath from Lord and Lady Forester and family at Willey Park. Miss Sarah Barker of Dawley sent a laurel wreath, with the word “Salopia” across it in large letters, and a card bearing the following words:— “With sincere regret and a token of profound respect for a great genius whose loyalty and devotion to his native county through a life of one hundred years is unparalleled in her history”. Other wreaths or crosses were sent as follows - “Sally, Jessie, Harry, and Rose” (son and daughters), “William and Maggie Soloman”, Mrs. Onians and Mr. A. A. P. Onians, Mr. A. Stanley Cochrane (London), Miss Yate (The Hall), “The Forester Family, Willey Park”, Proprietors of the “Wellington Journal and Shrewsbury News”, “Mr. and Mrs. Jones and Family”, “Mrs. Brightling”, “E. J. Johnson”, “Russell and Family”, “Mr. Walton and Edith”, Mrs. Haydon (Carshalton), “L. Jones and M. Oliver,” “Phoebe and Family,” &c. At Madeley Parish Church on Sunday morning the organist, Mr. A. A. P. Onians, played “Blest are the departed” and “O rest in the Lord”.

A great personality has been removed from among us, says a correspondent; the last chapter of a remarkable life has to be written; the Grand Old Man of Madeley—full of years, and enshrined in honours worthily bestowed—has passed to that borne whence no traveller returns. The career of John Randall is grandly impressive. Born a son of Salopia’s fair county, breathing its congenial atmosphere for practically all his days, he has at length, after a round century of years, and a life of strenuous endeavour and usefulness, been vanquished in the unequal contest. Now he is at rest in the pretty God’s acre of the village so dear to him, amid the scenes of his labours and enjoyments. As we listen to the kindly words of valediction o’er his grave, our emotions of sorrow are mitigated by memories of a life well and nobly spent. What higher need we strive for? To have benefited mankind, to have extended the range of human knowledge, to have left the world better than we found it, is surely to have realised a worthy ambition, for the lives most who thinks the noblest, acts the best’. This and much more was achieved by John Randall of Madeley. Artist, philosopher, scientist, editor, author, his life history has indeed been remarkable. A man of comprehensive mental attainments, gifted with rare powers of observation, and endowed with an inordinate capacity for work, he played many parts, and thanks to a wonderful vitality, was enabled to continue his endeavours to within a short period of his death. Picture him, almost a centenarian, the honoured guest of the civic authority, the recipient of well-bestowed municipal honours, acknowledging, in clear and well-chosen phrases the compliments and plaudits of his admirers. But, then, Mr. Randall was an extraordinary man. Respecting his many activities and recreations, geological studies were a source of perennial delight to him. The practical effect of his researches is to be seen in many of the Midland coalfields, while his fossil collections are prized in the repositories of nations. What a pleasure it was to accompany him in his geological rambles. In the light of his masterly deductions “sermons in stones” was no longer a pretty poetic metaphor, but a beautiful truism, enunciated, too, in language to be appreciated by the meanest capacity. Now his authority is sought in promotion of a railway project or an important industrial undertaking; anon one might have encountered him, the centre of an interested group of villagers, resuscitating some little-known local legend or tag of folk-lore, settling some point of topography or domestic nomenclature, or telling again of the customs and manners and personages of a bygone generation. Why should old names be forgotten, or ancient usages be most to mind? And who better than John Randall to preserve them? The stately homes of Shropshire. Were they not an open book to our local savant. Their history, their ancestry, their architecture, have they not all been delightfully told in the columns of the JOURNAL? Then, as to his achievements in the world of art, his magnum opus. Are not the products of his skill world-famed? Many a royal and noble cabinet is enriched with the dainty specimens of his craftsmanship in china-painting; while as connoisseur his opinion was held in the highest esteem. His ability as litterateur is apparent in the numerous works which have emanated from his pen; but of all of them we enjoyed his “Severn Valley” and “Old Sports and Sports-men” the most. Now we have followed their author to the grave, after a life “unsullied, unexcused, and unalloyed”. How impressive the closing scene; how beautifully simple the performance of the last sad offices; how consonant with the life and character of our departed friend. As we listen to St. Paul’s sublime consolations the decree of the stern Arbiter loses its terrors, for mors janua vitae. Then we follow our brother to his last earthly resting-place. There, in the magnificence of an autumn sunset—the blue ethereal and fleecy cloud-drift a portent of celestial loveliness- we commit him, earth to earth! So passed from our sight, but not from our memories, “a noble son of nature’s own creating”.

10^th December 1910

BROSELEY,

BURIAL BOARD.— At the annual meeting of this Board on Wednesday Alderman D. L. Prestage was elected chairman for the ensuing year. The business transacted was of a purely formal character.

WEDDING.- On Wednesday a pretty wedding was celebrated in the Parish Church, the contracting parties being Mr. Fred Preston (second son of Mr, and Mrs. George Preston, High Street, Broseley), and Miss L. Roberts (daughter of Mr. C. Roberts Church Street, Broseley). The ceremony was performed by the Rev. A. C. Howell (rector). The bride (who was escorted to the altar by Mr. W. S. Waters, Shifnal, and eventually given away by him) looked exceedingly well in a costume of cream serge trimmed with silk braid, and large cream hat, trimmed with soft silk and feathers. She also carried a bouquet of white chrysanthemums. The bridesmaids— the Misses Lucy and Edith Rowe—were prettily attired in dresses of cream crepe-merle, trimmed with silk and lace, with hats to match trimmed with silk. They also carried prayerbooks (the gifts of the bridegroom). Mr. Percy Preston (brother of the bridegroom) acted as best man. The presents were numerous and useful, including a clock from the employees of Broseley Tileries Co.

DISTRICT COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors T Doughty, J. Nicklin, A. A. Exley, T. L. Griffiths, and G. Keay, Messrs. P. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), G. Oakes (rate collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).— Mr. Doughty proposed that Alderman Prestage be re-elected chairman for the ensuing year. He was certain they could not have a better gentleman for the position. (Hear, hear.)— Mr. Griffiths, in seconding the motion, remarked that Alderman Prestage was the hardest worked man is Broseley.— Mr. Nicklin supported the motion, which was unanimously carried.— Mr. Prestage promised to do all he could for the Council, and hoped they would pull together in the future as they had done in the past.— The committees were then re-elected- Mr. Herbert said there was no notifiable infectious disease in the district, and that there was only one nuisance, which was ordered to be abated.- After some discussion it was decided to light two lamps at Jackfield, and four at Broseley with incandescent lights, on the motion of Mr. Doughty, seconded by Mr. Exley.— It was also decided, on the motion of Mr. Nicklin, to fix a public lamp at Swan Lane near the Hand and Tankard.— The Surveyor presented his accounts for the past month, which was passed.— The Clerk reported there was a balance in hand on the general district account of £341, and £209 was required to meet liabilities.— Mr. Oakes stated that he had collected £225 on the general account.— Mr. Abberley said he had inspected the water mains throughout Jackfield and Broseley, and found them in good working order.

PRESENTATIONS.— On Friday last week a pleasing function took place at the Liberal and Labour Club the occasion being the presentation of a Gladstone bag by the members of the club, to Mr. E. R. Hartshorne on his leaving England to take up an appointment in America. Mr. James E. Hartshorne presided over a good attendance, and, having made a few remarks pertinent to the occasion, called upon Mr. G. W. Taylor (secretary); who, in an interesting speech, said that when it became known that Mr. E. R. Hartshorne contemplated taking his departure from their midst, the Members of that club felt it incumbent upon them to present him with some memento of their kindly regard and esteem. He was one of their valued members, and they were very sorry to lose him, but they sincerely trusted that their loss would be his gain. All the subscribers had given willingly and cheerfully. He, himself, had been in close touch with Mr. E. R. Hartshorne at Messrs. Maw’s Works, Jackfield, for the last 15 years, and the business transactions they had with each other from time to time were of the most amicable description. He was always courteous and business-like, and would be missed very much.— Mr. George Hurdley, who made the presentation, said he also had been associated with Mr. E. R. Hartshorne in Messrs. Maw’s offices for a number of years, and he was in a position therefore to substantiate all the good things said of him by Mr. Taylor. He sincerely wished him and Mrs. Hartshorne every happiness and success in their future home. (Applause.)— Mr. E. R. Hartshorne, in acknowledging the kind gift bestowed upon him, said he thanked Mr. Taylor and Mr. Hurdley for their kind expressions concerning him. He would be glad to hear that the club was making satisfactory progress, and hoped the members would make politics more a matter of study, and thus be enabled to give an intelligent reason for the faith that was in them. He was not leaving Free Trade England for Protectionist America, because he had believed Free Trade was dying out. He was a firm believer in Free Trade. His only object in leaving the land of his birth was with the view of improving his condition in life. He had an offer which he thought would accomplish this, that was all, it did not affect his political views in the least. (Applause.)— Mr. P. Stephan said he was not one of those men who expressed his regret at a man emigrating to another country if he was going to improve his position thereby. He congratulated Mr. E. R. Hartshorne on his courage, determination, and perseverance, all of which he possessed in a remarkable degree, and they were important factors is securing success in life. He felt assured their friend would make his mark in his adopted country. (Applause)— Mr. J. Jones said that Mr. Hartshorne made himself useful in his day and generation, and would be much missed, especially at the Broseley Wesleyan Chapel, of which he was a consistent member and teacher in the Sunday School. (Applause.)- On Wednesday the friends and members of the Wesleyan Church presented Mr. and Mrs. E. R. Hartshorne with a set of fish carvers and knives and forks, as a token of esteem. The recipients had been ardent workers in the Wesleyan Church, Mr. Hartshorne for many years acting as secretary to the Sunday School, and for the last two years as superintendent. The Rev. B. E. Hawkins (Madeley Wood) made the presentation, and expressed his regret and that of the church in losing two such willing, energetic, and sympathetic workers. Mr. E. R. Hartshorne accepted the gift, and, on behalf of himself and his wife thanked all his friends for the kind thoughts and wishes conveyed to him, stating that he had had many happy times and associations connected with the work carried on in Broseley.

17^th December 1910

BROSELEY

Williams’ Stores, 84, High Street, large stock High-class Christmas Goods. Inspection invited. Everything guaranteed.

INQUEST.- On Thursday Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry on the newly-born female child of Eliza Pope, single woman, residing at Foundry Lane.- Mrs. Pope (grandmother) stated that on Wednesday her daughter complained of being ill. She went for two midwives, who refused to go, and when witness returned she discovered her daughter had been confined of a female child, and it was dead.- Dr. Fox Edwards said that, acting under the instruction of the coroner, he had made a post mortem examination, and found the child was still born, and the jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence.

24^th December 1910

BROSELEY.

FOUND DEAD IN BED.— On Monday Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry concerning the death of Thomas Campbell (73), a coal dealer.— George Hurdley, clerk, Broseley, who identified the body, stated that deceased was unmarried, and had lived by himself. In consequence of what he had heard, witness went to deceased’s house on Saturday, and found the place locked up. He then sent for Police-constable Edwards, who broke into the house and found Campbell dead in bed.— Mary Preece, a little girl, stated that she went on errand for deceased on Wednesday afternoon.— Dr. Boon stated that he had attended deceased on and off for some years until three months ago. On Saturday-night he went to deceased’s house, and found him in bed dead. He was of opinion that deceased had been dead about two days, and that he died from heart failure.— Police-constable Edwards stated that, acting under the instructions of Mr. Hurdley, he broke into the residence of deceased, and discovered the dead body of deceased. He also found 5s. in money in the window. There was a quantity of food in the house, and nothing had been disturbed.— A verdict of “Death from heart failure” was returned.

BROSELEY.

Shropshire County Council

BROSELEY.

WILLEY.

BROSELEY.

INDUCTION AT BROSELEY THE NEW RECTOR.

BROSELEY.

TWO NEW PEERS.

WENLOCK BOROUGH COUNCIL.

BROSELEY.

BROSELEY

THE SHROPSHIRE SANATORIUM, MEETING AT IRON-BRIDGE.

MEETING AT MADELEY.

MEETING AT BROSELEY.

IRON-BRIDGE.

BROSELEY.

BROSELEY.

BROSELEY

BROSELEY.

MADELEY COUNTY COURT.

SHROPSHIRE COMPENSATION

AUTHORITY.

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL, WEDNESDAY.

WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL.

BROSELEY.

IRON-BRIDGE.

BROSELEY.

LINLEY

BROSELEY.

MR. JOHN RANDALL, MADELEY, TELEGRAM FROM THE KING.

ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF AGE, MR. JOHN RANDALL F.G.S., OF MADELEY. ARTIST, AUTHOR, AND SCIENTIST.

BROSELEY.

PRESENTATION AT JACKFIELD.

BROSELEY.

A SEVERN MYSTERY.

BROSELEY WOOD.

BROSELEY.

MADELEY.

FARM FIRE AT BARROW PROMPTNESS SAVES DISASTER

IRON-BRIDGE

BROSELEY.

BROSELEY,

PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.

BROSELEY.

NEW RECTOR OF JACKFIELD, INDUCTION OF REV: B. DE RICCI.

A SHROPSHIRE CENTENARIAN, DEATH OF MR. JOHN RANDALL OF MADELEY.

IN MEMORIAM.

THE LATE MR. JOHN RANDALL. FUNERAL AT MADELEY.

BROSELEY,

BROSELEY

BROSELEY.

INDUCTION AT BROSELEY
THE NEW RECTOR.

WENLOCK BOROUGH
COUNCIL.

THE SHROPSHIRE
SANATORIUM,
MEETING AT IRON-BRIDGE.

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL,
WEDNESDAY.

MR. JOHN RANDALL, MADELEY,
TELEGRAM FROM THE KING.

ONE HUNDRED YEARS OF AGE,
MR. JOHN RANDALL F.G.S., OF MADELEY.
ARTIST, AUTHOR, AND SCIENTIST.

PRESENTATION AT
JACKFIELD.

FARM FIRE AT BARROW
PROMPTNESS SAVES DISASTER

NEW RECTOR OF JACKFIELD,
INDUCTION OF REV: B. DE RICCI.

A SHROPSHIRE CENTENARIAN,
DEATH OF MR. JOHN RANDALL OF MADELEY.

THE LATE MR. JOHN RANDALL.
FUNERAL AT MADELEY.