10th January 1903
BROSELEY.
COALPORT CHINA James
Davies has bought the Coalport China Business carried on by the late Mr. Lloyd,
The Dean, and will be glad to receive any inquiries.— King Street, Broseley
TENNIS
CLUB.— A supper and smoking concert for members of this club were held at the
Lion Hotel on Monday, when an enjoyable evening was spent. A good musical
programme had been arranged and was successfully carried out.
WESLEY
GUILD.— The usual weekly meeting in connection with this Society was held in
the Wesleyan Schoolroom on Tuesday evening. Mr. W. Edge, senior, presided over
a large attendance. Mrs. E. R. Hartshorne gave a very interesting paper on
“Frances Ridley Havergal”, which was highly appreciated.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday. — Present: Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
E. G. Exley, P. Jones, T. Doughty, W. E. Southern, E. Oakes, and Messrs. A.
Owen (for the town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and
J. Dixon (rate collector). — Mr. Dixon said he had collected since the last
meeting on the general district rate £190; £400 had been collected, and £280
had yet to be collected.— The Clerk stated there was £651 6s. 2d. in hand. — A
cheque for £35 was ordered to be drawn in favour of the surveyor, who was
instructed to place 20 more loads of cinders on Ball’s Lane.— The Inspector
reported a case of erysipelas at Jackfield, and a case of diphtheria at
Broseley. He also reported his first batch of nuisances from Jackfield, and the
usual notices were ordered.— Mr. Oakes complained of the dirty condition of
some of the lamp-heads. It was evident they had not been cleaned for some time.
It did not give them half the benefit of the gas, which was not too strong at
any time.— Mr. Southorn called attention to the unsatisfactory way in which
Simpson’s Lane was repaired, and the Surveyor said he would see to the matter.—
Mr. Oakes spoke in favour of lighting up the Dingle.— The Chairman thought this
would open up other matters, and that the lighting scheme would be a big one.-
Mr. Exley said he should like to see the roads in a better condition— they were
in a shocking state. — Mr. Oakes: Especially near the church. — Mr. Exley
thought the Borough of Wenlock and the Bridge Trust would take the prize for
bad roads. — The Chairman: I think we will give way to the Bridge Trust.
17th January 1903
JACKFIELD.
SUDDEN
DEATH.— An old shoemaker named Job Haynes was the other day found dead in bed.
Deceased was evidently worn out, an opinion the coroner held, for he did not
think it advisable to hold an inquiry.
MADELEY.
TRADES
UNION.— A branch of “The National Amalgamated Union of Enginemen” has recently
been opened in this place, and 39 men of that craft have joined it.
ANOTHER
TREAT TO THE INMATES.— On Wednesday evening the members of the Iron-Bridge Glee
Union game an entertainment to the inmates of the workhouse. Mrs. W. Wilson and
Miss Taylor also took part in the programme, which was thoroughly enjoyed. Mr.
W. Roberts presided at the piano, and the class was conducted by Mr. J. Ellis.
Before Judge Harris Lea.
ADMINISTRATION
ORDER— Levi Evans, Broseley, applied for an administration order.— In reply to
his Honour, he said the landlord was the largest creditor, viz., for £12, and
it had been owing three years. There were four judgments against him. The total
debts amounted to £29.— His Honour made an order for 5s. a month.
CLAIM FOR
TILES.— Craven, Dunnill, and Co., encaustic tile makers, Jackfield, claimed the
sum of £5 14s., the price of tiles, from J. Wright, accountant,
Stratford-on-Avon, and Mr. Peirson (Official receiver),
17th January 1903
BROSELEY.
SPECIAL
SERVICES. — On Sunday the Rev. T. Champness (
NATIONAL
SCHOOLS:— The report of the Diocesan Inspector of his examination at these
schools has been received, and speaks very favourably of the religious
instruction given.— “Boys: The repetition work throughout was sound and good,
though some of the more minute points were missed in the written papers. There
is every evidence of careful and systematic teaching, and the knowledge shown
in the school as a whole is good. Girls: The tone and discipline throughout the
school are excellent, and the whole standard of teaching high. The method used
in the highest division is especially to be commended, and produces excellent
results in the written work, which is far above the average, both for accuracy
and style. More attention might be given to the explanatory work. General
results excellent. Infants: The children are well taught and interested in
their work”.
MARRIAGE.—
On Wednesday a very pretty wedding was celebrated in Holy Trinity Church,
Coalbrookdale, the contracting parties being Miss Mary Ann Rowe, eldest daughter
of Mr. John Rowe, confectioner, Broseley, and Mr. Richard Jones, second son of
the late Mr. Richard Jones of Horsehay Farm, and Mrs. Jones, Hill Cottage,
Coalbrookdale, Both bride and bridegroom are deservedly respected throughout
the district. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. C. B. Crowe (vicar). The
bride was tastefully attired in a dress of crushed strawberry, trimmed with
white silk and lace to match, and hat of biscuit-coloured straw, trimmed with
white silk lace and feathers, and was escorted up the aisle by Mr. J. S. Adams
of Broseley, who eventually gave her away. The bridesmaids were Miss Sarah
Elizabeth Rowe (sister of the bride), who wore a brown dress, trimmed with
white silk and lace to match, and hat of biscuit-coloured straw, trimmed with
white, silk lace and feathers, and Miss Edith Adams of Broseley, who was
attired in a grey dress trimmed with white silk, and hat to match. Mr. Charles
Corfield of Iron-Bridge acted as “best man”. After the ceremony the wedding
party adjourned to the residence of the bride’s father, where an excellent
repast awaited them. The bells rang merrily at
PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before Councillor T. Cooke (mayor),
Colonel Anstice, Alderman A. B. Dyas, Colonel Wayne, Messrs. W. G. Norris and
E. W. Shorting.
A
DISORDERLY. — Henry Rogers, labourer, Iron-Bridge, was charged with being drunk
and disorderly at Iron-Bridge. — Inspector Hamlet, in proving the case, stated
that defendant had his coat off, and wanted to fight two other men.—
DRUNK IN
CHARGE— Edward Reynolds, waggoner, was charged with being drunk when in charge
of a horse and cart.— Inspector Hamlet and Police-constable Fletcher proved the
case, and defendant was fined £1, including costs.
THREE BAD
BOYS.— Roger Jones, Ernest and Henry Duckett, youths, were charged at the instigation
of Sergt. Hopwood with throwing stones at Wenlock.— Alice Jones, in the employ
of Councillor Davies of The Marsh, stated that she went for a walk one Sunday
with Mr. Davies’s two children, and saw the defendants with a catapult shoot at
a dog and make it bleed about the mouth. They also used bad language when she
reprimanded them.— Defendants pleaded guilty, and were each fined 2s. 6d. and
costs.- The defendants were also charged with placing a gate on the highway
near Wenlock.— Mr. Thursby-Pelham and Sergeant Hopwood gave evidence, and defendants,
who pleaded guilty, were each fined 2s. 5d, and costs.
31st January 1903
JACKFIELD.
DEATH OF A
FORESTER.— Mr. H. Oswell, who was at work on Tuesday, died on the following
Friday at the age of 61 years. He had worked all his life at the Coalport China
Works, and was buried on Monday in
14th February 1903
WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL.
The
quarterly meeting of the Council was held on Wednesday at the Guildhall,
Wenlock; present:— The Mayor (Councillor T. Cooke), Lord Forester, Colonel J.
A. Anstice, Aldermen A. B. Dyas, J. Bodenham, D. L. Prestage, G. Lloyd, and Councillors
E. G. Exley, R. F. Ayre, F. G. Beddoes. W. Evans, T. J. Barnett, R. Lane, E.
Oakes, T. Doughty, W. J. Legge, A. G. Lascelles. J. Davies. C. Edwards, A. G.
Cartwright, A. Dixon. B. Maddox. Messrs. Godfrey C. Cooper (town clerk), F. H.
Potts (borough treasurer). A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (magistrates’ clerk), G. Stevenson
(surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), J. Jones (attendance officer), and
Dr. Gepp (medical officer).
RATES.
&c.— The Mayor said £200 13s. were required to be raised by a borough
rate.— On the motion of Mr. Dyas, seconded by Mr. Edwards, it was decided to
levy a borough rate of 1d. in the pound. It was also resolved to levy a general
district rate of 1s. 6d. in the pound for Barrow; and a rate of 3s. 2d. in the
pound for Broseley.- Mr. Dyas said he was sorry to see that this time Madeley
figured so high in the list of rates, 3s. 3d. in the pound, when it was
considered some years ago that 9d. was an extreme sum. He moved a rate of 3s.
3d. be levied for Madeley, remarking that the cost of opposition to the
Wolverhampton Water Bill. £1,000, helped the rate on. He contended that having
won the day their expenses should have been paid by someone else. —Mr. Beddoes
seconded the motion, which was carried. — On the motion of Mr. Bodenham, seconded
by Mr. Lloyd, a rate of 3s. in the pound was levied for Wenlock.— The Clerk
stated that the registration expenses amounted to £14 16s.1d. and the Parliamentary
and municipal expenses were £31 12s. 5d.— On the motion of Mr. Ayre, the
accounts were ordered to be paid.
THE
ASYLUM VISITORS.— Colonel Anstice
presented a report an the
AN
IMPORTANT REPORT.- Colonel Anstice
presented the report of the Main Roads and General Purposes Committee. He said
they regretted they were not able to get the report printed, but most of the
suggestions were under consideration. They had carefully considered the effect
of the Education Act so far as the borough was concerned, but they were not
able to come to a definite conclusion as to whether to recommend the Council to
retain their power or go in with the County Council scheme; so the matter would
be held over until the clerk had conferred with the clerk of the County
Council. With regard to the question of appointing a surveyor and inspector for
Madeley, the committee regretted they were unable to report definitely on the
subject, and were waiting for a reply from the Local Government Board. The
committee had carefully considered a revision of the town clerk’s salary, and
they recommended an increase in his salary of £50 per annum from November last.
This was the unanimous report of the committee. He moved the adoption of the
report. — Mr. Bodenham seconded, and the motion was carried unanimously. — The
Town Clerk thanked the Council for the increase of salary.
THE WATER
RATE. — On the motion of Mr. Dyas, the mayor was authorised to seal the water
rate for the Broseley, Madeley, and Wenlock Sanitary Divisions, in accordance
with the published regulations.
MEDICAL
OFFICER’S REPORT. — Dr. Gepp reported that the general death rate of the
borough exceeded slightly the average rate for the five previous years. Influenza
accounted for 13 deaths, 22 deaths were due to phthisis, 17 to cancer and
malignant disease, as compared with 15 in each of the two preceding years. The
birth rate was very close to the average rate for the borough in recent years.
The zymotic death rate, or deaths from infectious diseases, was below the
average for the district, and below the rate for the country generally. It
comprised 18 deaths as follow:—Whooping cough 8, scarlet fever 2, diphtheria 3,
enteric fever 2, and another epidemic was responsible for 3. The infantile
mortality was exactly the average rate for the preceding years, and was
considerably lower than the rate for the country generally in 1902.— It was
decided to have the annual report printed, and circulated among the members.
THE
EDUCATION ACT. — The Town Clerk remarked that Mr. J. Bayley of The College,
Wellington, had sent him some circulars convening a meeting to be held on the
education question, and invited all the members present.— The Mayor said he
could not see what that meeting would have to do with the borough of Wenlock,
although he should be pleased to attend for the sake of hearing what was to be
said. He was of opinion that they should work the Education Act themselves or
join the county. He did not believe in any centres. (Hear, hear.)
THE
RENOVATING THE GUILDHALL.— Mr. Edwards called attention to the condition of the exterior of the Guildhall. He said it had not been painted for many years, and moved that tenders be invited for the work.— Mr. Davies seconded the motion which was carried.
14th February 1903
IRON-BRIDGE.
PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.
Before Colonel Anstice (chairman).
Lord Forester, Messrs. F. R. Smith, W. G. Norris, and J. Bodenham.
LICENSING
BUSINESS.— The superintendent’s report was read, from which it appeared that
three license holders had been convicted for selling adulterated spirits, and
one had been convicted for selling intoxicating liquors during prohibited
hours. In all other respects order has been fairly maintained in the several
licensed houses. Twenty-five transfers had taken place. For drunkenness,
&c, 151 persons had been proceeded against, and 145 convicted.— Colonel
Anstice said all the licenses would be renewed, but the case of objection would
be presently dealt with. He said the Bench would give them notice that they intended
to exercise their power given under the new Act, and that before any of the licenses
were renewed in 1904 the Bench would require a plan of the premises of all
licensed houses throughout the borough. Ample notice of course would be first
given to the license holder for the production of the plans, and any
alterations the Bench thought necessary would have to be carried out. Colonel Anstice
left the Bench during the hearing of the opposition to Jones’s license, and Mr.
Norris occupied the chair.— Mr. F. R. Spender (Bridgnorth) represented Jones.—
Superintendent Walters said he objected to the renewal of the license or
transfer of the Shakespear Inn, Coalport, because Mr. Edwin Jones was not a fit
and proper person to hold such license; and again, the house was of a
disorderly character. —Inspector Hamlet stated he had received many complaints
as to the disorderly character of the house previous to the conviction; none
since. It was a good house.— Mr. Haslewood maintained that Jones had turned
over a new leaf since the conviction, and had carried on the house in a proper
manner. His character, he contended, would bear the strictest investigation.
Hearing referred to the band incident, which was the cause of the conviction,
Mr. Haslewood said if they took applicant’s license away Jones would he thrown
on the wide world. It was his own property, and it would mean ruin to him.—
Richard Roberts, foreman at Griffiths’s timber yard, Coalport, and Clement
Fennell, Coalport, went in the box and gave Jones an excellent character, the
former remarking that he thought the Shakespeare was too quiet for a
public-house.— After some deliberation, Mr. Norris said the license would be
renewed, and hoped the house would be kept within the terms required by the
notice.
SELLING
BREAD WITHOUT WEIGHING- IT.— George Lears, baker, Jackfield, was charged with
this offence.- Police-constable Davies stated he saw the defendant delivering
bread from a cart at Broseley. He saw a woman purchase a small loaf for 2½d. He
asked defendant for his scales, and he said he had forgotten them. Defendant
was fined 5s. and costs.
A
DISORDERLY PAUPER.- George Simmonds, an inmate of the Madeley Workhouse, was
brought up in custody charged with assaulting another inmate named John Dean, a
diminutive person, and was sentenced to 21 days’ imprisonment, with hard
labour.
21st February 1903
RE-AFFORESTATION.
SUGGESTIONS AFFECTING
(By JOHN RANDALL.)
The
reproach from which our neighbours of the
The ground
at Broseley, on which Watt erected the first steam engine made at
Along the
old Chase of Shirlet, which had been de-forested, the timber having been cut
down to make way for mining operations, re-afforestation has taken place, and
also at the Smithies and at Caughley, where Thomas Turner made his famous ware,
now so scarce and so highly prized by connoisseurs. Lord George Forester, uncle
of the present proprietor of Willey, who did so much to improve the estate,
also planted the two great pitmounds at the Stocking, near Broseley, converting
an eyesore into pleasing objects in the landscape. The Lilleshall Company, too,
at the time Lord Granville was director and Mr. T. E. Horton manager, did much
to beautify by planting disused pitmounds in the neighbourhood of the works. At
Madeley Court two old pit-mounds were planted a few years ago by the late Mr.
W. O. Foster, at the suggestion of his manager, Mr. C. W. Pearce, and they are
now clothed with fine specimens of larch, fir, spruce, Spanish chestnut, and
the white holed and tasselled birch, “ the ladye of the woods”.
There is
not a more depressing sight than that to be seen in travelling through Ketley,
Donnington Wood, Wrockwardine Wood, Wombridge, the
It is
gratifying to observe that the unsightly cinder heaps in the old iron-making
districts are likely to ho reduced or to disappear altogether. The value of
basic-slag has for some time been recognised for agricultural purposes; it is
now held to he the best ballast for railways, and the L. & N.W. Railway
Company are taking away a thousand tons a month from Stirchley, and conveying
it to their different centres. The old ballast has been found at every passing
train to form a dust which penetrated the axletrees, clogged the wheels, and
created friction, and untimely wear and waste. The slag does neither, and it
also effects a saving in oils and grease.
28th February 1903
MADELEY DISTRICT
COUNCIL.
The
monthly meeting of this body was held on Wednesday; present:— Alderman A. B.
Dyas (chairman), Colonel J. A. Anstice (ex-mayor), Councillors W. J. Legge. W.
Y. Owen, F. G. Beddoes, R. Lane, W. F. Bryan, B. Maddox, A. G. Cartwright, and
A. Dixon, with Messrs. Godfrey C. Cooper (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor),
IT. Herbert (inspector), and T. E. Patten (collector).
WATER. —
The Harrington Water Committee reported that all the connections would shortly
be completed, and that they had disposed of one clerk of the works.- The
Chairman moved, and Mr. Beddoes seconded, the adoption of the report. — Mr.
Maddox said he was pleased to hear a report given in by the Water Committee,
but he thought other matters might have been mentioned, for instance, that it
was the intention of the committee to connect the Harrington water with the
Sutton scheme, which was estimated to cost £280. He also mentioned that it was
intended to put down fire plugs round the route to Jackfield and Iron-Bridge,
and extra conduits.— Mr. Cartwright asked if hose pipes would be supplied.— The
Chairman said they had not yet got quite to that.— The report was adopted.
28th February 1903
BROSELEY.
THE
CHILDREN’S HOME.- On Sunday afternoon a musical service was given in the
Wesleyan Chapel, at which Mr. W. Edge, sen., presided. Mr. Percy Briscoe
(formerly of the Home) gave an interesting address, urging the needs and claims
of the Home. Miss Evershed sang, with excellent taste, “Only tired” and “Vesper
Hymn”. Mr. H. Wase gave a good rendering of “In the Cathedral” and “A Waif”;
and Mr. J. A. Hartshorne on the organ played selections from Haydn in excellent
style. There was a good attendance, and a collection in aid of the Home was
taken at the close, which amounted to £1 10s.
PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before Mr. T. Cooke (mayor),
Colonel J. A. Anstice, Alderman A. B. Dyas, Messrs. W. Y. Owen, E. W. Shorting,
and F. R. Smith.
DRUNK AND
DISORDERLY.— William Gittens, labourer, Broseley, was charged with being drunk
end disorderly.— Police-constable Davies proved the case, and defendant was
fined 7s. 3d. and costs.
TRAVELLING
WITHOUT A TICKET.— William Bedell, farmer, Rushbury, was charged by the Great
Western Railway Company with travelling from
A CASE FOR
THE ASSIZES.— Alfred Jones, tile sorter; Adam Ball, labourer; and Frederick
Ellis, printer, all young men of Jackfield, were brought up on remand charged
with unlawfully wounding Enoch Davies (57), labourer, Jackfield. Mr. F. R.
Spender prosecuted, and Mr. H. R. Phillips (Shifnal) defended. Great interest
was taken in this case, and the Court was crowded during the hearing.— Enoch
Davies, labourer, who appeared with his head bandaged, said he lived at
Jackfield. He knew the three defendants. On the night in question he was at the
Duke of Wellington Inn, Jackfield between eight and nine o’clock. The landlord,
Mr. Smith, gave him a pint of ale for bringing a cooler over the
7th March 1903
BROSELEY
BURIAL
BOARD. Mr. D. L. Prestage presided at the meeting on Wednesday.— The Clerk (Mr.
Godfrey Cooper) reported a balance of £26 11s, 8d. hand.— Miss Wilkes was
appointed gate-keeper at the cemetery at
a salary of 26s. a year. The Chairman spoke of the disgraceful state of the cemetery
gates and railings, and it was decided to have the same re-painted.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL. Wednesday. — Present: Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
E. G. Exley, E. Oakes. P. Jones, Messrs. Godfrey C. Cooper (town clerk), G.
Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector) and J. Dixon (collector).— The Chairman remarked that with reference to
the report, which appeared in the papers that they could not make the people
pay the rate if their own water was satisfactory, certain requirement would
have to be fulfilled before the person could be exempted from the water rate.
For instance, the water would first have to be analysed by an inspector, and
there would have to be sufficient quantity. He said there were fire plugs in
the town, and as everyone would be benefited by them he hoped all would the
rate. The Chairman having read a report from the Harrington Water Joint
Committee which appeared in the last issue of the “Journal” he said he had gone
through the assessment with the
collector and estimated that the water rate would bring in £428, which would
cover their share of the running of the
Harrington water pumping station, and would probably leave a little in hand In
case of public-houses where they did their brewing, the whole of the water
would be supplied to the premises by meter, so that they would have to pay on the
actual consumption. With reference to the pipes in the iron bridge, in
consequence the repairs, he said it was necessary to alter line of pipes, and
when they were shifted he hoped they would not be removed back again. Mr.
Stooke had the matter in hand. He said Jackfield would have to pay the water
rate as well as Broseley they were going to have the Harrington water laid on.
Having laid fire plugs in the town, he though they should purchase a quantity
of hose, but they should have some one to look after it.- Mr. Oakes suggested
the raising of a fire brigade in the town.- The
Chairman thought the captain of the Iron-Bridge Fire Brigade could work
the two; the matter, however, was left in the hands of Chairman and Mr. Oakes.—
A letter was from Messrs. Maw and Co., Jackfield, asking the Council’s permission
to raise the public lamp and water conduit which were fixed round the corner of
their building, as they intended raising the road. —After some conversation the
surveyor was instructed to write to the Company to the effect that the Council
objected to the footpath being raised.
14th March 1903
MADELEY.
BOARD OF
GUARDIANS, Yesterday.— Dr. Stubbs (medical officer), in a letter, asked the
Board to allow him 3s. 6d. for re-vaccinating tramps. He said it would cause
special visits.— Mr. Clayton thought if they kept the tramps a day it would not
necessitate special visits.- The Clerk referred to previous charges for
vaccination, which were adopted by the Local Government Board.- The Chairman:
Then the matter is out of our hands.— A letter was read from the clerk of the
Seisdon Union to the effect that the managers of Quatt School ruled their resolution
out of order, and his Board considered the ruling distinctly wrong, and they
had referred the matter to the Local Government Board.- The Chairman reported
that Messrs. Owen, Clayton, and himself attended the meeting referred to, and
in reply to Mr. Maddox, added that the clerk did not consider the motion within
the ordinary business. Therefore the chairman ruled it out of order.- Mr.
Clayton contended the ruling was wrong.— The following tenders were accepted:—
Meat, Mr. Wylde, Madeley; flour and bread, Mr. J. H. Webster, Iron-Bridge;
coal, Mr. Geo. Pooler, Madeley; hair-cutting and shaving, Mr. R. Langford,
Iron-Bridge.- With reference to coffins, it was resolved to deal with the
tenders at the next, meeting. With regard to the present contractor, he
attended the Board and admitted he was a bearer short at Broseley. He said it
was usual to trot where there were no houses, and that the bearers had dark
clothing.- The master stated the driver (the contractor’s son), on one
occasion, wore brown boots and brown leggings. He also had a coloured hat.- The
Chairman told Mr. Bowen the contract must be carried out properly.- Mr. Bryan
suggested they should find four black suits for the inmates to act as bearers,
It was decided to discuss the matter at a future meeting.— There were 12
applications for the post of nurse, and the testimonials having been read out,
six of the candidates were selected to attend the Board at the next meeting,
when the appointment will be made.— A letter was read from Col. Wayne,
resigning his seat as a Guardian, and as manager of the Quatt School, in consequence
of his leaving the county. He thanked all for the courtesy he had always
received. His resignation was accented with sincere regret. The resignation of
Mr. Abner Bailey (Dawley), who has left the district, was also received and
accepted.— The visitors (Messrs. E. W. Shorting and A. A- Exley) visited the
house, and this is their report:
To-day we climbed
up Lincoln Hill, which seemed as steep as ever,
To formally inspect
the House as we’d arranged together.
We found the
inmates orderly, and with their food contented—
Not grumbling at
the ills of life that ne’er can he prevented,
But occupied in
useful work, a helpful hand all lending
In laundry,
washhouse, kitchen, ward, some gard’ning and shoe-mending,:
The aged and
deserving poor supplied with elbow chairs—
Our panacea for all those bowed down with; years and
cares:
The doctor constant on his rounds, and prompt with pill
and plaster;
Whilst over all the
watchful eye of matron and of master.
Though “boarding
out” has cost us dear, and exercised us greatly
(As evidenced by
the debates we’ve listened to so lately),
The “ boarding in”
arrangements seem complete in all departments.
And strictly in
accordance with the L.G.B. requirements.
ADMINISTRATION
ORDER — Richard Harrison, brickmaker, Broseley, applied for an administration
order. His debts amounted to £48 18s. He earned 3s. a day, and offered to pay
10s. in the pound at 15s- a month.— Mr. R. Spender, who represented Mr. Onions,
confectioner, the largest creditor, thought debtor should pay 15s. in the
pound, as also did Mr. Copeland’s representative.— Debtor said it was entirely
sickness that brought him to his present position. His wife, whom he buried three
years ago, was ill 15 years and he also had a son whose death he was expecting
daily.— Mr. Spender said he had offered to pay Mr. Onions 2s. 6d. a week for
bread.— Debtor said he was then getting 30s. a week.- His Honour said it was a
bad case, and he did not think debtor could pay more than 10s. in the pound.-
An order was made for 10s. monthly instalments.— His Honour told the debtor
that he must keep up the payments, for it was a big sacrifice for the
creditors.
21st March 1903
WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL.
A special
meeting of this Council was held on Wednesday at the Guildhall, when there were
present: Councillor T. Cooke (Mayor), Lord Forester, Colonel J. A. Anstice,
Aldermen A. B. Dyas, J. Bodenham, T. H. Thursfield, D. L. Prestage, G. Lloyd,
and Councillors W. J. Legge, F. G. Beddoes, B. Maddox C. Edwards, A. G.
Cartwright, T. J. Barnett, W. Allen, A. G. Lascelles, R. F. Ayre, W. P. Bryan,
A. Dixon, S. Davies, R. Lane, P. Jones, R. A. Instone, J. Hart, E. Oakes, E. G.
Exley, T. Morris, W. Evans, T. Doughty; with Messrs. Godfrey C. Cooper (town
clerk), A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (magistrates’ clerk), P. H. Potts (borough treasurer),
G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), T. B. Patten (collector). T.
Jones (attendance officer), and Dr. Gepp (medical officer).
RATES.—
Rates were levied for the Broseley, Barrow, Madeley and Wenlock districts.
SMALLPOX
AT BROSELEY.— Mr. Prestage presented a report on a smallpox hospital for the
borough of Wenlock. He said they considered the most economical way would be to
take over the present Wenlock Ward Isolated Cottage Hospital in the town, and
with an addition of £30 spent on the building it would contain four beds.— Mr.
Bodenham said he had called a meeting that morning of the Wenlock District
Council, when they unanimously decided not to allow the use of the Cottage
Hospital.— Mr. Prestage then said there came the question of a suitable site.
He said they had secured a site at the Batches, near Broseley, but the tenant
required £5 an acre, and there were 9 acres. He said they could obtain a
hospital tent for £200, but the cost altogether would be £403, whilst they
could obtain a permanent wooden or iron hospital for £800.—Dr. Gepp said the
site was an admirable one, suitable for a temporary or a permanent hospital. Be
preferred the latter. He said there was a case of smallpox in the borough
(Broseley). It was a mild case and was isolated, but the most disquieting
feature was that it was impossible to trace the source. It appeared there was
an infection moving about, but this case was well isolated, and he did not
think there would be any subsequent cases. He said tent hospitals were a dead
loss, and he preferred a wooden one. He thought they would have to deal with
the matter themselves— he did not think the County Council would assist them.—
Mr. Maddox contended that as the disease was at their doors the time had
arrived when they should deal with a permanent structure.- Col. Anstice thought
the County Council would help them, and he moved that the matter be left in the
hands of Messrs. Prestage, and Lascalles to obtain a structure, and that they
be thanked for their services —Mr. Bodenham seconded the motion, which was
carried.
28th March 1903
IRON-BRIDGE.
PETTY SESSIONS.-TUESDAY.
Before Mr. T. Cooke (mayor).
Colonel J. A. Anstice, Messrs, A. B. Dyas and W. Y. Owen.
SEQUEL TO
THE ASSIZES.— Thomas Poole (16), Charles Bowen, (16), Albert Perks (15),
Charles Owen (14), Hinsley Evans (15), Arthur Hughes (13), Wallace Evans (16),
and John Webbley (13), all residing at Jackfield were charged with a breach of
the borough by-laws.- Mr. J. T. Carrane
defended, and objected to the joint charge, contending that the information was
bad as against eight people for an act one might have committed.— Alfred Potts,
Coalport, stated that he had been at Shrewsbury giving evidence at the Assizes
for the prosecution in the case of an
alleged assault at Jackfield. He came back to Iron-Bridge by train, and found
the station platform crowded with people, who hooted him all the way down the
road as far as
STEALING
COAL.— Elisha Cartwright, farm labourer, was charged with stealing 94lb. weight
of coal, value 10d., the property of Eleanor Wooler, Linley Hall.— Sergeant
Bowen proved the case, and defendant was fined £1, including costs.
STEALING
PORK. — Elizabeth Jones, widow, Broseley, was charged with stealing 21lb. of
pork, value 1s. 6d., belonging to Matthew Davis, butcher, Broseley.- Prosecutor said he put the pork by
in the shop for a customer, but when he wanted it the pork was missing. He gave
information to the police, after which defendant came and asked forgiveness.—
Evidence having also been given by Edith Davis and Police-constable Davies,
prisoner pleaded guilty, and was fined 22s., including costs, or 21 days’ imprisonment.
4th April 1903
BROSELEY.
P.S.A. The
weekly meeting in connection with the Broseley Wesleyan P.S.A. was held in the
chapel, when Mr. E. R. Hartshorne presided over a large attendance. Mr. A. T.
Hartshorne gave an excellent address on “Circumstances”, and Mr. A, J. Preston
gave a fine rendering of the solos “Rocked in the Cradle of the Deep” and “Comfort
ye” (“Messiah”).
DISTRICT
COUNCIL.— Wednesday; present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
E. G. Exley, P. Jones, T. Doughty, E. Oakes, R. A. Instone, Messrs. Godfrey C.
Cooper (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and J.
Dixon (collector).— The Clerk reported that there was a balance in hand of over
£300, and a cheque for £5 was drawn in favour of the surveyor.— Mr. Herbert
said there was no infectious disease in the district, with the exception of the
case of smallpox, which was reported at the Wenlock Council meeting. He said
they were going on slowly with the alterations at Jackfield.— Plans were submitted
for the new Forester Hospital at Broseley and discussed.— The Clerk asked if
the water rate would be collected with the general district rate.— The Chairman
thought it would be best to do so; and in reply to Mr. Oakes, he said it would
be a separate account.— Mr. Dixon said he had to make so many calls for the
rate that he intended to ask for some more money.— In reply to Mr. Exley, the
Chairman said the water rate would commence from last Christmas.— The Clerk
observed that, if there was no water rate, the general district rate would be increased;
and the Chairman said he was of opinion that within a few years the water rate
would relieve the general district rate.
4th April 1903
SUICIDE AT BROSELEY
On Monday
a young man named Alfred Harvey was found drowned in the pool at Benthall Edge,
and consequently Mr F. H. Potts, borough coroner, held an enquiry on the
following evening. Ann Harvey, Widow, Broseley Wood, stated the deceased was
her late husband’s daughter’s son, and that he lived with her. Deceased was 32
years of age, and was a waggoner at the Coalbrookdale Ironworks. He was a
single man, and on Sunday appeared somewhat depressed, and went to bed in the
afternoon. He said he should not go to work till breakfast time if he did not
feel better. Witness heard him go out on Monday morning about 6-30. She
subsequently saw his food on the chest of drawers. Deceased had been ailing of
late, she thought he had hurt himself, but he was told by the local doctor that
it was nothing serious.- Isaac Garbett, collier, Broseley, said on Monday about
11 o’clock he was walking on Benthall Edge with a man named Edward Walker, when
on the banks of the pool he saw some clothes. They looked in the water and saw
the body of deceased. Witness gave information to Inspector Hamlet at
Iron-Bridge. Edward Walker, and invalided soldier, having given corroborative
evidence, Francis Ball stated that he saw deceased about half past six o’clock
on Monday morning going towards Iron-Bridge. He gave him a message to take to
the lobby man at the Dale works respecting his grandson. He appeared in low
spirits.- Inspector Hamlet said the body was fully dressed, and there was no
sign of any struggle. Deceased’s overcoat was on the bank, folded up, and a hat
was on the top of it.- The verdict of the jury was “Suicide whilst temporarily
insane”.
11th April 1903
BROSELEY.
PRESENTATION.—
Mr. R. Weekes, who is leaving for America next week was presented on Monday, at
the Duke of Cumberland Hotel, with a travelling bag and a box of cigars by his
numerous friends. Mr. J. Hyman, who occupied the chair, made the presentation
in an appropriate speech, and the recipient acknowledged the gift. A smoking
concert followed, at which Mr. Smitheman presided at the pianoforte. Votes of
thanks to Mr. Stevens and the chairman terminated a pleasant evening.
9th May 1903
BROSELEY.
YOUNG
PEOPLE’S MISSION.— On Wednesday evening an entertainment in connection with the
above mission was given in the Congregational Chapel, under the presidency of
Mr. Robert Durnall of Madeley. There was a very good attendance, and the
following took part in the programme:— Mr. G. Tonkiss, Mr. Morgan Ellis, Miss
Hartshorne, Miss Bunnagar, Mr. J. Gething, Miss May Shaw, Miss May Bunnagar,
Edgar Williams, Miss F. Williams, and Mr. Powell.
SPECIAL
SERVICES.— On Sunday two sermons were preached (morning and evening) by Mr. T.
H. Gorle, J.P., of Wednesbury, in the Broseley Wesleyan Chapel. Suitable hymns
were rendered by the choir. In the afternoon a musical service was held, under
the presidency of Mr. J. E. Hartshorne, Mr. W. Roberts of Iron-Bridge presided
at the organm and played the solos
“Improvisation” (Merkel). “Intermezzo from Rusticano” (Mascagni),
selection (“Messiah”) “Comfort ye”, “And the Glory” (Handel), “Sunset Melody”
(Vincent), “Triumphal March” (Costa), and “March Militaire”. Mr. W. Garbett,
who was in splendid voice, sang the songs, “Queen of Angels” and “Eternal
Rest”, with great taste and expression. Mr. Morgan Ellis of Iron-Bridge also
gave a creditable rendering of the songs, “Dream of
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:— Messrs. D. L. Prestage (chairman). E. G. Exley,
P. Jones, W. E. Southern, R. A. Instone, E. Oaks, G. C. Cooper (town clerk), G.
Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector of nuisances), and J. Dixon
(collector).— Mr. Dixon reported he had collected £85 12s. 3d. during the last
month, and the Clerk said there was a balance in hand of £328 13s. 2d. The
Chairman said, with regard to the water supply, that it was decided at the
water meeting to charge the Jackfield people with the water from the 1st of
April, and Broseley from the 1st of January. He added that Jackfield people
ought not to grumble, for they had had the water a good many years for
nothing.— Mr. Oakes asked if there was any particular distance decided in
regard to laying of the hydrants.— The Chairman replied that there was not.—
The Collector said he did not think the people would grumble; and the Clerk
remarked that if people would be stupid the Council would have to fix more
hydrants.— Mr. Oakes said he merely asked for
information.— The Chairman was requested to interview Mr. Taylor of
Willey in respect to getting the latter to accept the captaincy of a fire brigade.—
The Inspector reported that there were no cases of infectious disease at Broseley,
and that the smallpox case had been “cleared off”. He presented a bill for
bedding and clothing in connection with the case, amounting to £3 18s., and
this amount was ordered to be paid.
16th May 1903
WENLOCK TOWN COUNCIL.
WEDNESDAY.
Present:—
Councillor T. Cooke (mayor), Lord Forester, Colonel Anstice, Aldermen A. B.
Dyas, D. L. Prestage, T. H. Thursfield, J. Bodenham, and Councillors W. Y.
Owen, W. Allen, F. C. Beddoes, E. G. Exley, E. Oakes, A. C. Lascelles, C. Edwards,
B. Maddox, R. F. Ayre, A. Dixon, T. Doughty, T. Morris, W. Evans, J. Davies;
with Messrs. Godfrey C. Cooper (town clerk), A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (magistrates’
clerk), F. H. Potts (borough treasurer), H. Herbert (inspector), G. Stevenson
(surveyor), T. Jones (school officer), Symonds (inspector of weights and
measures), and Dr. Gepp (medical officer).
BOROUGH
RATE.— The Mayor said the Finance Committee had gone through the bills, which
showed that the sum of £1,067 was required to be raised by a rate.— It was
decided to levy a borough rate of 5d. in the pound.
THE
INFECTIOUS HOSPITAL. — Mr. Prestage reported that their estimate for the
infectious hospital was £800. They were obliged to erect an emergency
structure, and the estimate of £50 for drainage would be increased to £150, in
order to deal thoroughly with the sewerage from the hospital. The total cost
would amount to £800 11s. 6d., against which they would have the cost for the
grass, which would bring the cost down to £786 11s. 6d. Had they not been in a
hurry the emergency hospital, which cost £100, would not be required. He went
on to say that there was a balance of £100 not used for asylum purposes, and he
proposed that that should go towards the hospital expenses, and that the
balance be made up by a 3d. rate, to be collected in three years —a penny each
year— which would lighten the burden this quarter. He moved a 3d. rate in the
pound be levied.— Mr. Lascelles seconded the motion, which was carried.
30th May 1903
JACKFIELD.
SUNDAY
SCHOOL.— The prize-giving took place on Wednesday, when 31 prizes were
distributed to the successful scholars by Mr. H. D. Hughes (superintendent) and
Miss Saunders. The Rector awarded his special gift to the following scholars,
who during the school year had gained the full number of marks:— John Dodd,
Jessie Bowen, Minnie Bryce, Amy Smallwood, and Beatrice Smith. Words of
encouragement were addressed to teachers and scholars by the Rector and Superintendent.—
The subscriptions were collected for the prizes by the teachers.
SUDDEN
DEATH. — Mr. F. H. Potts (borough coroner) hold an inquiry on Saturday at the
Half Moon Inn, touching the death of Mary Ann Hall (31), who died on the previous
day.— Grace Wright, certificated nurse, stated that deceased was confined on
Tuesday, and she attended her and everything, went off well. Deceased
complained of her heart on the Thursday, and witness suggested that it would be
well to have the advice of a doctor, which she declined to have. On the Friday
morning deceased died.— Dr. Dyson stated that he had attended deceased previous
to her confinement. He was of opinion that everything had been done that was
possible, and in reply to the foreman he said no doctor could have saved the
woman’s life. He attributed the cause of death to a clot of blood on the
lungs.— The jury returned a verdict of “Death from natural causes” — Deceased,
who was buried on Tuesday at the
30th May 1990
MUCH WENLOCK.
PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before Mr. T. Cooke (mayor), Colonel
J. A. Anstice, and Messrs. T. Bodenham and F. R. Smith.
THROWING
STONES.— Henry Potts (14), Jackfield, was charged with throwing stones.—
Sergeant Bowen stated that he saw the defendant, in company with other lads,
throwing stones on Mr. Jones’s sheds.— Defendant was fined 5s, including costs.
STEALING
COAL.— Mary Ann Harris, married woman, Madeley, was charged with stealing 60lb.
of coal, of the value of 4d., belonging to the Madeley Wood Company. Mr. F. R.
Spender prosecuted.— Police-constable Harper stated that he was on duty near
the Kemberton Pit, and saw the defendant and a lad picking coals. He took possession
of the bags, which contained 60lb. weight of coal.— Defendant was fined £1 1s.
3d., including costs, or 14 days’ imprisonment in default.
MAINTENANCE
CASE.— Thomas A. Poole and John Henry Poole, colliers, Dawley, were summoned
for failing to support their father, who is an inmate of the Madeley
Workhouse.— Mr. J. C. Mole, relieving officer, gave evidence, and said the
Guardians only asked for 1s. a week.
6th June 1903
BROSELEY.
JACKFIELD
BRASS BAND.— The Members of this band gave a sacred concert on Sunday
afternoon, and there was a large attendance.
BURIAL
BOARD.— A quarterly meeting of the Burial Board was held on Wednesday. Alderman
D. L. Prestage presided, and reported that Mr. Garbett’s tender for painting
the cemetery railings was the lowest, and reported a balance of £35 14s. 7d. in
hand.
UNITED
OPEN-AIR MISSION.— On Sunday evening the second of a series of meetings in
connection with this mission was held in the
CHURCH
SUNDAY SCHOOL.— On. Sunday two appropriate sermons were preached in the
SCHOOL
ANNIVERSARY.- On Sunday the 89th anniversary of the Birch Meadow Baptist Sunday
School was celebrated, when two sermons of an earnest character were preached
by Mr. Herbert J. Banks of
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present: Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
E. G. Exley, P. Jones, E. Oakes, T. Doughty. and W. E. Southorn, with Messrs.
A. Owen (for the clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and
J. Dixon (collector)— Mr. Dixon reported he had collected on the rate during
the month £343 17s. 4d., and that there was nearly £400 outstanding.— The Surveyor
reported that the cost for the public lighting amounted this year to £118. A
cheque was drawn in his favour for £12 on the general account. — Mr. Herbert
said that there were no cases of infectious disease in the district. He also reported
two nuisances, which were ordered to be abated.— Mr. Oakes called the attention
of the Council to the fact that there was no conduit placed near the Duke of
Cumberland Inn, and that the people had to go a distance for the water. The
Chairman suggested that they put a tap at this place, and he promised to see
Mr. Abberley on the matter.— The Chairman here read the report on the
Harrington water supply which appeared in the last issue of this paper. Mr.
Doughty suggested that the water should be taken to the neighbourhood of the
Tuckies, Jackfield. The Chairman said it would depend on the revenue of the district.
It was suggested that they should first get the cost of putting in the water,
and what the revenue would be from that neighbourhood.— With reference to the
pipes over the old iron bridge, the Chairman said they had tried to settle the
matter amicably, and not being able to do so the question was in the hands of
the solicitors. Mr. Oakes remarked it was an unfortunate position.
13th June 1903
BROSELEY.
Wolseley Cars.— I have for delivery in
September a 20. h.p. Wolseley Car, either Tonnean or Shooting brake body.—
James Davies, Motor Agent, Broseley.
OPEN-AIR
MISSION.— On Sunday evening the third of a series of open-air meetings was held
in connection with the United Missions, adjacent to the Town Hall, when Mr. F.
W. Jones of Madeley Wood gave an address. Mr. A. T. Hartshorne and Mr. F.
Preston also took part in the meeting. There was a large attendance.
FUNERAL OF
THE LATE MR, GEO. DAVIES.— The late Mr. Geo. Davies of the firm of Messrs. G.
and F. Davies, brick and tile manufacturers, had been ailing for a considerable
period, and on Sunday he passed away. On Wednesday in the presence of a large
number of people, including representatives of all the brick works in the
district, deceased was buried in the family vault at the parish churchyard. The
Rev. G. F. Lamb (rector) conducted the ceremony.
JACKFIELD
BRASS BAND.— On Saturday evening the members of this band played the following
excellent selection of music on the Memorial Green, under the direction of Mr.
George Aston (bandmaster). There was a good company present, who evidently
appreciated the efforts of the performers:— March, “Canadian”; selection,
“Songs of Other Days”; euphonium solo, “Air Varie” selection, “L’Eliser D’Amore”;
waltz, “Prairie Flower”; march, “Cycle Parade”; selection, “Sons of Britannia”.
20th June 1903
SHOCKING STORY FROM
BROSELEY.
ANOTHER VICTIM TO DRINK..
On
Saturday night Mr. F. H. Potts, borough coroner, held an inquiry at the Duke of
Cumberland, Broseley, touching the death of Ann Oakley, who was described as
“the biggest woman in the district”.
Edwin
Oakley, haulier,
Police-constable
Davies deposed when he went to the house about midnight he found four of the
children in the street. Deceased was drunk and used abusive and threatening
language. He asked her what was the matter, and why she had turned her husband
and children out of doors. She picked up a knife off the table and threatened
to kill him, at the same time ordering him out of the house. Witness said she
was mad drunk, but he somewhat succeeded in pacifying her, and when he left she
was sitting by the fire. Her right eye was closed and swollen, and she bled
much. He was not surprised to hear of her death the next morning.— Carrie Oakley,
daughter, said she came home on Friday night at 11 o’clock, and in consequence
of the state of her mother she left the house with her sister, and stayed in
the street till 3 o’clock in the morning. When she went to fetch some coal in
the wash-house about 5 o’clock, she saw her mother lying down by the door.
Witness spoke to her, but she never answered. She went out and told her brother
that she thought deceased was dead, and he ultimately told his father.
Dr. Fox
Edwards stated he arrived at the house at 8 o’clock on Saturday morning and
found deceased in a back room lying on her face with her head against the door.
There was a sharp cut on the bridge of the nose, and her face had bled freely.
On examining the body he found no marks of violence, and the wound on the nose
was not sufficient to cause death. She was a big powerful woman, and the
position in which the body was found, and the appearance of it afterwards, led
him to form an opinion that deceased died from suffocation.
The
verdict of the jury was “Deceased accidentally fell, and was suffocated”.
4th July 1903
BROSELEY.
TOWN HALL
CHARITIES. On Saturday the Rector of Broseley distributed “Barratt’s Charity”,
when 45 persons received 1s. 6d. each.
UNITED
OPEN-AIR MISSION.— On Sunday evening the sixth of a series of meetings in
connection with this mission was held in
ALL
SAINTS’ CHURCH.— On Sunday evening the choir gave a fine interpretation of the
anthem, “God so loved the world”, and the duet, “Love Divine, all loves
excelling”, was given in excellent style, the soprano solos being undertaken by
Masters Harold Wase and William Oakley, and the tenor by Mr. W. Anstice
(Madeley Wood Hall). Mr. W. H. Griffiths conducted.
A SACRED
CONCERT was given on Sunday evening in Mr. M. Davies’s field by the Iron-Bridge
Volunteer Band, in the presence of a large concourse of people, and the various
items, so well played, were highly appreciated. Mr. Beardshaw conducted, and a
collection was made on behalf of the band instrument fund. The programme was as
follows:- March, “Justification” chorus, “In God is our trust”; fantasia,
“Church call, Sabbath chimes”; song, “Ora Pro Nobis”; selection, “Pirates of
Penzance”; air (varied), Rosseau’s Dream”,
DEATH OF
MR. J. B. NEVETT.— On Thursday week there passed away a very familiar figure of
this town in the person of Mr. James Brian Nevett at his residence. Barratt’s
Hill, Broseley. Deceased was 78 years of age, and one of the oldest and most
respected residents of the place. The funeral took place amidst every
demonstration of respect on Monday at
PETTY SESSIONS.— At these sessions on Tuesday,
before Messrs. T. Cooke (mayor) and E. W. Shorting, Fanny Bird, married woman,
Callaughton was summoned for making use of abusive words towards Annie Norry,
Marsh Cottage, Much Wenlock.— Complainant stated that defendant abused her and
said she would wring her neck out.— Mary Beddoes, Callaughton, witness for the
complainant, stated that she heard no bad language; and Annie Hayward stated
that such language was used.— Defendant denied the charge, and added this was
the first time she had appeared in Court.- The case was dismissed, Norry having
to pay the Court expenses.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors
E. G. Exley, P. Jones, T. Doughty, E. Oakes, W. E. Southorn, Messrs. Godfrey C.
Cooper (town clerk) G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and J.
Dixon (collector).— Mr. Dixon reported he had collected £117 8s. 10d. since the
last meeting, and that there was £250 to be collected. He intended to collect
the water rate next week. The Chairman reported a balance of £588 3s. 4d. in
hand.— A letter was read from Mr. Morgan,
4th July 1903
LINLEY, near BROSELEY.
THE
CHURCH.— Yesterday week a marble tablet in memory of the late Mrs. Lowndes of
Linley Hall was erected in the north-east wall of the chancel in the church,
just over the spot where she was accustomed to worship regularly in her invalid
chair for several years. The tablet was subscribed for by the old scholars of
the little day school which she inaugurated and maintained during her residence
at Linley Hall, as the inscription on the tablet testifies. At the afternoon
service on Sunday the Rector referred in a feeling manner to Mrs. Lowndes’s
sweet disposition and unostentatious work at Linley, and exhorted all present, both
old and young, to try and imitate the three traits which, from his privileged
experience of some years of personal friendship with the late Mrs. Lowndes,
shone most conspicuously in her character, viz., her devotional piety, her
gentleness and humility, and her loving sympathy.
11th July 1903
BROSELEY.
Call at
OWEN BATE’S Broseley, and see the high grade Bicycle. B.S.A throughout; spring
framed; own make. Also best offer in £10 10s. Cycles, six years’ warranty on running
powers.
Before buying your Motor Bicycle consult James
Davies, Broseley. He carries stock, and will demonstrate the machines in town
or country by appointment. Humbers, Enfields, Rex, &c
UNITED
OPEN-AIR MISSION.- On Sunday evening the seventh of is series of meetings in
connection with this mission was held in
SUNDAY SCHOOL
TREAT.- On Wednesday the scholars attending the Congregational Sunday School
had their annual treat. The teachers and scholars met in the schoolroom,
afterwards proceeding to a field kindly lent by Mr. E. G. Exley, where they
indulged in a variety of games until the return to the schoolroom, where over
100 sat down to tea. Afterwards the games were renewed in the field. Mr. R.
Bunnagar (superintendent), Mr. A. Evans, Mr. H. Bunnagar, Mr. Draper, Mr. B.
Bunnagar, and teachers doing their utmost to promote the enjoyment of the
children.
FUNERAL OF
A FORESTER.— On Monday afternoon the remains of the late Mr. James Daniel Smith
of the Duke of Wellington Inn, The Tuckies, were interred in the Cemetery. The
funeral service was read by the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, M.A. (Rector of
Jackfield), in
18th July 1903
WENLOCK.
BARROW
DISTRICT COUNCIL.- A meeting of this Council was held on Monday at the Town,
Clerk’s Office, when there were present:— Councillors J. Davies (chairman), W. Allen, A. G.
Lascelles, with Messrs. A. Owen (for the town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor),
and H. Herbert (inspector).— It was reported that the amount collected on the rate
was £66 8s. 1d.— The Clerk reported that there was a balance of £82 19s. 2d. in
hand, and that the surveyor’s expenditure for the month was £46 15s. 2d.— The
Inspector reported a case of scarlet fever at Arlescot, the only infectious
disease in the borough.— A long discussion ensued as to whether Dhu stone or
limestone should be placed on the Benthall road. It was ultimately decided in favour of
limestone, which would be only one-third of the cost.
PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.
Before Mr. T. Cooke (mayor),
Messrs. J. Bodenham and W. G. Norris.
DRUNKENNESS.—
The following were charged with being drunk and disorderly:— Francis Smith, at
Broseley, by Police-constable Davies, sentenced to 21 days’ imprisonment,
without the option of a fine.— John Tandy, at Broseley, by Police-constable
Davies, fined 5s. and costs.— John Locke, at Madeley, by Police-constable
Harper, fined l0s. and costs.— Christopher Jones, at Broseley, by
Police-constable Davies, fined 1s. and costs.
A
NEIGHBOURS’ QUARREL.— Henry Smallman was charged with making use of abusive
language towards Thomas Meredith, an old man, and Meredith was also charged
with a similar offence towards Smallman. The parties are neighbours, and reside
at Broseley Wood. Mr. F. H. Spender represented Meredith.— Meredith deposed
that he was a tile presser by trade, and lived next door to Smallman. On the
evening in question he heard an altercation going on between defendant and his
son. Shortly after defendant used abusive language towards him. — Alfred Roden
(tile presser, Broseley Wood), Mary Bradeley (married woman), and Annie Lloyd
(married woman), gave corroborative evidence.- Smallman went into the box, and
admitted having a few words with complainant’s son. Meredith came up, and
called him names, whereupon witness retorted all that Meredith had told the
Bench was untrue.— Richard Morris, Emily Morris, and Edward James Jones also
gave evidence. — Smallman was fined £1 1s., including costs, and the case
against Meredith was dismissed.
CHARITY
ABUSED.— Thomas Fletcher, an army reserve man, was charged with stealing £2 0s.
6d., belonging to Jesse Brown, Broseley.— Brown stated that he had known
prisoner ever since he was a little boy. Prisoner came to witness’s residence
and had some refreshments, and stopped at the house all night. He slept with
witness, and the following day, when he went to work, he left prisoner in bed.
Witness left his purse, containing £2 0s. 6d., in his trousers pocket. When he
returned from his work the prisoner was gone, and the money had disappeared,
though the purse was left behind.—Police constable Davies also gave evidence.—
Prisoner pleaded guilty, adding that he had been drinking, and he asked the
Bench to deal leniently with him. — The Magistrates sentenced prisoner to 28
days’ imprisonment, with hard labour.
18th July 1903
BROSELEY.
UNITED
OPEN-AIR MISSION.— On Sunday evening the eighth of a series of meetings, in
connection with this mission, was held on Quarry Bank, when Mr. F. Jones of
Iron-Bridge delivered an earnest address.
CHAPEL
ANNIVERSARY.— On Sunday the 161st anniversary of the Broseley Old Baptist
Chapel was celebrated, when two able discourses were delivered by the Rev. D.
M. Davies, B.A., of
CHOIR
EXCURSION.— On Monday the Broseley Congregational choir had their annual
outing, the place chosen this year being Blackpool, whither they and a few
friends, numbering 31, proceeded in a specially-engaged saloon, per Smart’s
well-arranged trip from Coalport, having quite 10 hours at the seaside. A very
enjoyable day was spent.
FUNERAL OF
AN ODDFELLOW.— On Wednesday the remains of the late Mr. George Bowen, Talbot
Inn, were interred in the cemetery. The Rev. G. F. Lamb, M.A., rector, was the
officiating clergyman. Deceased was 54 years of age, and passed away some-what
suddenly on Sunday. He had been a member of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge of
Oddfellows for 10 years, and was much respected by his fellow members, 18 of
whom attended the funeral attired in the usual regalia. A number of splendid
wreaths were sent by relatives and friends.
25th July 1903
IRON-BRIDGE.
ANOTHER
COLLAPSE.- The old iron bridge is at present undergoing repairs, and on Friday
week a loud report (similar to the firing of a cannon) was heard, and it was
discovered that another of the plates under the bridge had snapped and fallen
into the
25th July 1903
MADELEY.
Before his Honour Judge Harris Lea.
ADMINISTRATION
ORDERS.--Edmund Smitheman, carpenter, Broseley, applied for an administration
order. He said he was a married man, and did earn 22s. a week, but was at
present out of work. He had endeavoured to pay his debts up to the present
time. His debts were £19 3s. 5d., and he offered to pay 5s. in the pound at 3s.
a month— Messrs. Amphlett (for Davies, Broseley), and Reeves (for Dr, Jacobson
and Dr. Boon) objected to the application, contending that the debts should be
paid in full. Mr. Amphlett stated that debtors usually went into public-houses,
and make their brag what they had done at the
1st August 1903
BROSELEY.
UNITED
OPEN-AIR MISSION.— On Sunday evening the tenth of a series of meetings was held
in the
ACCIDENT.—
On Tuesday evening a somewhat serious accident occurred to Alfred E. Pountney.
He had been clearing the letter-box in
CHOIR
EXCURSION.— The members of the Broseley Church Choir had their annual outing on
the 23rd ult., visiting Llandudno. The party, accompanied by a few friends,
left Iron-Bridge Station at 5-10 a.m., arriving at their destination at 8-30.
At 12 o’clock dinner was provided, and after dinner the party again sallied
forth to enjoy the refreshing breeze, and otherwise amuse themselves until tea
time. The return journey was commenced at 7-10 p.m., the party reaching
Iron-Bridge Station at 11-10. The whole arrangements were entrusted to Mr. A.
E. Wiggins (people’s warden), and were carried out in a satisfactory manner,
with the kind assistance of Messrs. Homer and H. Wase.
8th August 1903
BROSELEY.
UNITED
OPEN-AIR MISSION.— On Sunday evening the 11th of a series of meetings in
connection with this mission was held in the Congregational Chapel. Mr, A. T.
Hartshorne presided, and Mr. Lingard of Iron-Bridge gave an address of a
diversified description. There was a fair attendance.
DANCE.— A
dance took place at the Coneybury on Saturday in aid of the funds of the
Jackfield Brass Band. The band played a fine selection of music, under the
direction. of Mr. George Aston (band master). There were about 60 present. Mr.
H. Russell acted as M.C.
ODLFELLOWSHIP.—
The Lodge “Rose of Sharon” was visited on Saturday by the Grand Master of the
district (Mr. J. W. White, Iron-Bridge), who gave a very interesting account of
the A.M.C. at Cheltenham, he being the delegate appointed by the district, to
attend that meeting. His remarks were well received, and a hearty vote of
thanks was passed to him for his services to the cause of Oddfellowship.
SUNDAY
SCHOOL TREAT.— The annual treat to the scholars attending the Broseley Church
Sunday School was held yesterday week. The children, after assembling in the
Schoolroom, adjourned to a field (kindly lent by Miss Beard), where various
games were indulged in. Over 200 children and 30 teachers sat down in the
Schoolroom to an excellent tea, after which the field was again resorted to.
Before returning each child received a prize.
BIRCH
MEADOW BAPTIST SUNDAY SCHOOL. - On Monday the scholars attending this school
had their annual treat. The children assembled in the Schoolroom in the
afternoon and sat down to tea, after which they proceeded to a field kindly
lent by Mrs. Bathurst, where games of various kinds were indulged in until
dusk, the superintendent (Mr. A. E. Broadhurst) and teachers doing their utmost
to promote their enjoyment. Each child received a prize, and on returning to
the schoolroom refreshments were provided for all.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.- Present: Councillors W. H. Southorn (chairman), P. Jones,
E. Oakes, R. A. Instone. and Messrs. Godfrey Cooper (clerk), G. Stevenson
(surveyor), and H. Herbert (inspector).- The surveyor reported his expenditure
for the month was £13 19s. 3d. He presented bills (£2 16s.), for payment which
were ordered to be paid. The Surveyor reported he had removed the pump out of
the Fiery Field.— It was decided to commence lighting the public lamps on the
15th inst.- The Inspector reported several cases of nuisances, which were
ordered to be abated.
SUNDAY
SCHOOL. TREAT— On Monday the scholars attending the Old Baptist Sunday School
had their annual treat. The children, accompanied by the Pastor (Rev. R.
Wilson), with the superintendent and teachers, marched to a field at the Park,
kindly lent for the occasion by Mr. John Davis, where they indulged in a
variety of games, and subsequently returned to the schoolroom, where tea,
awaited them. After doing justice to the good things provided, the field was
again resorted to, and the sports continued with renewed vigour. Each child received
a prize from the pastor and superintendent (Mr H Evans).
8th August 1903
BROSELEY WOOD.
INFANT
SCHOOL.— The school broke up for the summer holidays on Thursday week, when a
presentation of a handsome travelling bag and dressing case (supplied by Mr. James
Davies, King Street) was made to Miss E. L. Jones, daughter of Mr. T. Jones
(school attendance officer) from the managers, teachers, and scholars, on
leaving the school in which she had served her a apprenticeship successfully
passed the King’s Scholarship Examination at Christmas in the first class. She
enters
15th August 1903
JACKFIELD.
EXCURSION
TO TONG. — The scholars and teachers attending the Wesleyan Sunday School held
their annual excursion on Saturday, when Tong was visited. A very enjoyable day
was spent by all.
RED
CHURCH.— A service was held on Sunday afternoon, when the church, which has
sitting accommodation for 270, was filled to overflowing. The service was shortened
evening service, with popular hymns. The Rector conducted the service and
preached, and Mr. A. Stanley Cochrane (
22nd August 1903
Letters to the Editor
WENLOCK COUNCIL AND THE NEW LOAN
Sir, Our
expenditure, both nationally and locally, is an incubus almost too heavy to
bear, and unless relief is quickly afforded will ere long land us on the verge
of bankruptcy. The taxpayers do not, in my opinion realise sufficiently their responsibility;
they are as it were under the influence of a soporific, and are unable to shake
off its deadly effects, hence the policy thrust upon them by the “powers that
be” Locally, “cliqueism” has much to answer for in this matter; favouritism
predominates, officials are appointed and are kept in office often to the detriment
of the public. It appears the Town Council of the borough of Wenlock are asking
for a further loan of £14,000 for the purposes of the Broseley and Madeley waterworks.
How is this? When an estimate is given does it not almost invariably cover
every incidental that may possibly arise: Is not the contractor compelled to
complete the work at the price he originally gave, unless the contract has been
broken by consent of the Town Council? and what is the supervision of the
latter worth if such disastrous results as these are to occur?
The
ratepayers are sadly too lukewarm. Men are elected as members of the Council
who have little qualification for the duties they undertake. Old servants resign,
and no explanation is given, nor regret expressed for the loss of their
services.
There is
only one man in the Council who has the courage of his convictions, and fearlessly
stands up for the rights of the people, and that is Councillor Maddox. All
honour to such men—of whom, were the electors wise, they would not be slow to
increase the number. PRO BONO PUBLICO.
29th August 1903
COALPORT PORCELAIN.
THE STORY OF AN ANCIENT AND FAMOUS
INDUSTRY.
In the
September number of the “Windsor Magazine” appears an interesting article from
the pen of Mr. G. H. Archer on the manufactures of the Coalport China Company,
Coalport,
Mr. Archer
commences with some particulars of the founding of these famous works, which he
says dates back from the eighteenth century, the site of which was at Caughley
and not at Coalport, as generally believed, and was established by a Mr. Brown
of Caughley Hall. A Mr. Thomas Turner appeared on the scene in 1770, and ten
years afterwards this gentleman visited France for the purpose of picking up
knowledge on the porcelain manufactures of Paris and other places, and while
residing in the capital is said to have had a regular laboratory fitted up at
the top of his house, in order that he might chemically analyse the beautiful
foreign specimens of the ceramic art. He did not return home empty handed, for
he brought with him some skilled workmen whom he had tempted by high wages, and
at once entered with increased spirit into the manufacture of porcelain at his
own retired works. One result of this foreign trip was the production of the
celebrated “Willow-pattern” and the “Blue Dragon”. The “Willow-pattern” has
undoubtedly been the most popular and had the most extensive sale of any
pattern of china ever introduced. It has, of course, been made by many other
firms, but the credit of its first introduction belongs to Caughley. The
original copper engraving of the “Willow-pattern”, bearing Turner’s name, is
still in existence at the works. Mr. Turner had, also, several pupils, one of
whom, Mr. John Rose, the son of a neighbouring farmer, was destined to supersede
his employer. In the year 1788 these two quarrelled, and young Rose, the
article continues, left to commence business on his own account at Jackfield, a
small village in the immediate vicinity, where it was not long before his
successful operations greatly reduced the business at Caughley works; so much
so that the latter were, gradually beaten out of the market, and in 1798 passed
into the hands of Messrs. John Rose and Co. by purchase, Mr. Turner entirely
withdrawing from the business. In the meantime Mr. Rose had moved his headquarters
from Jackfield to Coalport, where the works have continued uninterrupted to the
present day. A staff of excellent workpeople had been obtained from Caughley
and Jackfield works combined, but in the following year, on October 23, 1799,
an accident occurred in connection with the new works at Coalport which
deprived the master of many of his best hands. A considerable number of the workpeople
resided on the opposite bank of the river, and were in the habit of passing
backwards and forwards by means of a ferry. On that night, when the river was
in flood, the boat was crowded, and the man at the helm allowed the vessel to
swing round too quickly, with the result that she capsized. Thirty-two persons
were on board, of whom twenty-nine were drowned, among them the principal
artist, a man named
In 1820,
the
Mr. Archer
having described the various operations necessary to the production of Coalport
porcelain ware proceeds:
The
productions of the Coalport works at the present day, thanks to the determination,
energy, and liberality of the management, take rank with the very best in the
Kingdom. For its egg-shell china the
The
article in the “Windsor Magazine” is illustrated by half-tone blocks, which of
course heightens its value as a souvenir of the author’s visit, and evidences
the up-to-date character of the manufactory itself.
29th August 1903
Letters to the Editor
A
DANGEROUS PATH AT IRON-BRIDGE. Sir,— Your issue of last week referred to the
splendid act of bravery on the part of two young men, Green and Wrixom, in
rescuing a child from drowning at Iron-Bridge. They fully deserve the chorus of
praise which their brave deed has evoked. But while it is our duty to recognise
an act like this, it is no less our duty to do what we can to make such an
accident as befell this child impossible in the future. No one can contend for
a moment that the single rail which runs along the Wharfage is a proper and
sufficient barrier between the public path and a river swelling bank-high. On a
dark night it is a dangerous place for grown-up people, as former accidents
testify, but it is doubly dangerous at any time for children. A strong gust of
wind, an accidental push, or a stumble, and a life may be lost. Is it too much
to ask our local authorities to take the matter in hand? RATEPAYER.
WENLOCK
COUNCIL AND THE NEW LOAN. Sir.— I am pleased to see there is one individual
still left in our borough who realises the disastrous policy of extravagance
and neglect that has characterised the doings of the Joint Committee of the
Broseley and Madeley Wards water scheme. I fail to see however where “ Pro Bono
Publico’s” charges of “cliqueism”, “favouritism”, or “where old servants resign
and no explanation is given, nor regret expressed for the loss of their
services” comes in. I take fairly general interest in the doings of our Council
and ward committees, but I can remember no instance of the kind, but possibly
“Pro Bono” can enlighten me on this point. If he is unfortunate in these
charges he is certainly much more so in commending one member of the Council as
the “only man on it who has the courage of his convictions”, and so on. This
gentleman is a member of the joint water committee, who are asking for the loan
of £14,000 to finish paying for their water scheme, and as they have already
spent over £13.700 of it before applying for the loan, and for which the ratepayers
are paying interest at the bank it be interesting for the ratepayers to have
seen “Pro Bono’s” protégé give us a sample of his courage on this point. A few
other items I give below for the benefit of those who were too apathetic to
attend the. inquiry:— Original estimate £303; exceeded by £364; original
estimate, £589; exceeded by £571; original estimate for engines, exceeded by
£1,103 original estimate for mains exceeded by over £5,000; legal expenses, not including opposition
to Wolverhampton Water Bill, £1,100;
engineer’s commission and expenses, £1,798.
How the
money of the ratepayers has been muddled away can only be realised by those who
attended the inquiry. Had a shopkeeper brought his books into a County Court in
the hotch-potch condition that the accounts of the Water Committee were brought
into the court of inquiry, the Judge would have rated him soundly, and probably
sent him about his business.
W. J. JEFFREY.
WENLOCK
COUNCIL AND THE NEW LOAN. Sir —I fear that Mr. W. J. Jeffrey’s usual perception
has deserted him or his mental vision has be-come obscured, for he fails to see
where my charges of “cliqueism” , “favouritism”, or where “old servants resign,
and no explanation is given nor regret expressed for the loss of their services”
come in.
Mr.
Jeffrey knows as well as most men the inner working of the Council, he having
been a Councillor for the Madeley Ward, at which time his voice gave forth no
uncertain sound on the above matters, but men change, and their opinions, too,
the sliding scale being much in vogue just now.
I would
ask Mr. Jeffrey if it is usual for the resignation of an old and valued servant
to he received in silence and without comment.
I can
assure Mr. Jeffrey that Councillor Maddox is no “protégé” of mine, and I have
no mandate to speak for him in any way, he being quite capable of undertaking
his own defence. He may not satisfy all our requirements, but I still believe
him to be as represented in my letter last week, but unhappily Mr. Jeffrey is
not there to second his efforts so that he is as one crying in the wilderness-his
voice is I not heard. My only object in writing is with a view to the public
good—I therefore still subscribe myself.
PRO BONO PUBLICO.
29th August 1903
BROSELEY HORTICULTURAL SHOW
The annual
show of flowers, vegetables, and fruit in connection with this society took
place on Wednesday and Thursday in the National School-room, and, in spite of
the unfavourable weather, was well attended. The show was the best exhibition
that has yet been held in connection with the society, both in number of
entries and in quality of exhibits. The vegetables were, as usual, a strong
feature, especially the potatoes which flourish in the locality. There were
some excellent dishes of beans, peas, and fruit, whilst the arrangements of
flowers by juveniles surpassed previous years, and it is a little surprising
that children can put wild flowers so tastefully together. There was also a
splendid show of sweet peas, which were admired by everybody. Lord Forester,
who is president of the society, as usual occupied one end of the room with a
grand collection of miscellaneous plants and bunches of grapes (not for
competition), whilst Messrs C. C. Bruff and A. B. Garrett (Coalport) showed a
variety of plants which evidently set off the room, and were much admired. Mr.
W. H. Brown’s (
The
judges, who appeared to give every satisfaction, were Messrs. J. Penson (Willey
Hall), W. J. Crawford (Coalbrookdale), Prince (Sweyney Cliff), and Canning
(Aldenham). Messrs. Penson and Crawford also judged the gardens and allotments.
Mr. W. H. Brown (
During the
show minstrel entertainments, which were highly appreciated, were given by Miss
Pountney, W. Oakley, Eric Oakley, Emmie Oakley, Harold Wase, E. B. Pountney,
and A. Preston; Mr. W. Davies proving an able accompanist. The Jackfield Brass
Band was in attendance, and played an excellent selection of music, as well as
for dancing.
5th September 1903
LOCAL PROPERTY SALE
On Monday Messrs. Barber and Son, auctioneers, conducted a sale of freehold property at the Tontine Hotel, Iron-Bridge. The Duke of Wellington Inn, situated at The Tuckies, Jackfield, was purchased by the Lichfield Brewery Company for £1,050, and the company gave an additional £40 5s. for fixtures. A piece of land adjoining the last lot was purchased by Messrs. Maw for £90, and the four dwelling-houses were withdrawn at £150. A house and garden, situated at The Werps, Jackfield, were bought by Miss Smith for £155, and seven houses, situated at The Werps were withdrawn at £250. Messrs. Potts and Potts were the solicitors concerned.
5th September 1903
BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL
WEDNESDAY
Present:-
Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors E. G. Exley, P. Jones E. Oakes,
R. A. Instone, and Messers. Godfrey C. Cooper (town clerk), G, Stevenson
(surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and J. Dixon (collector).- Mr. Herbert reported
two cases of erysipelas in the district, and a number of nuisances. The usual
orders were made.- Mr. Dixon presented a list of 68 rate defaulters, which
represented £101 18s. 11d. He said in all his 22 years’ experience he had never
known such trouble in getting in the rate.- Mr. Oakes said the small traders
also complained of a difficulty in getting in their debts. The Chairman read
out the list of defaulters, but they must pay.- the collector was instructed to
take proceedings for the recovery of the rate.- The Collector reported that he
had received £83 32. 11d. on the new water rate, which was scarcely half of
it.- He was instructed to get the money in as soon as possible, and it was
decided to make the water rate a separate account.- With reference to extra
remuneration for the collection of the water rate on the suggestion of the
Chairman, the matter was left for the Joint Water Committee to deal with.- The
Town Clerk reported a balance of £700 2s. 3d. in hand. He told them that the
opposition to the Wolverhampton Water Bill cost £1,730 5s. 3d., and Broseley’s
share was £432 11s. 3d., which was £57 more than the provided for in the
rate. It was decided to make out a
cheque for £432 11s. 3d. in favour of the Harrington Joint Water Committee, who
financed the affair. It was also decided to give permission for the fixing of a
pillar post box to one of the lamp-posts at Jackfield.
12th September 1903
Letters to the Editor
WENLOCK
COUNCIL AND THE NEW LOAN. Sir,—I had hoped that “Pro Bono Publico” would have
treated us to a few instances of the “Cliqueism and favouritism” or
“resignation of old servants without recognition” that he accuses the Wenlock
Council as being guilty of, but instead of meeting the challenge I gave him in
a manly straightforward manner, he simply indulges in silly personalities. It
is the knowledge I possess of the inner working of the Council (of which “Pro
Bono” is profoundly ignorant) that enables me to question his wild statements.
Who is the old and valued servant whose resignation was received in silence and
without comment? If he refers to a recent resignation, the only one for years,
let him ask the “Man in the Street”, who will furnish the information as to why
the resignation was tendered, and received in silence. I cannot tell him here.
The resignations of our borough officials are few and far between; their
labours are light, and the Council pleasant task-masters. The sins of omission
and commission of our Council are quite enough without saddling them with those
they do not commit. Had “Pro Bono” attended the loan inquiry he would have
found that my voice still emits no uncertain sound, especially when neglected
interests and slipshod finance endeavour to assert themselves. “Pro Bono” says
“the sliding scale is much in vogue now”. Why speak in parables? The only
sliding scale that troubles the ratepayers is the sliding of the rates, and unfortunately
they slide the wrong way, with no prospect of a downward slide in the near
future. As to “Pro polio’s” assertion that his only object in writing is for the public good, I presume his modesty
compels him to hide himself behind a nom de plume, but it has a chicken-hearted
look about it— a writer doubtful of his statements, lacking the courage of his convictions. It is difficult to see how
erroneous statements and the special booming of a popular councillor can be of
any particular benefit to the public. But writing, as he does, he can say any
and many things that were he writing in his own name he would be ashamed of. In
his next letter I trust he will display his pluck by signing his name, and by
doing so reap the reward a grateful public is anxiously waiting to confer upon
him.
Madeley. W. T. JEFFREYS.
12th September 1903
BROSELEY.
Before buying your Motor Bicycle consult James
Davies, Broseley. He carries stock, and will demonstrate the machines in town
or country by appointment Humbers, Enfields, Rex, &c.
Broseley and District Fanciers’ Society. Show
and Sports, September 23rd, 1903.— Contests: Grand Football Match between
Iron-Bridge Tradesmen and Broseley Tradesmen; also Six-a-side Football Contests,
for unregistered players only. For particulars see Advertisement.
PRESENTATION.—
On Tuesday evening a very interesting event took place in the Wesleyan Chapel,
the occasion being the presentation of a purse of money, subscribed by a few
friends as a slight souvenir of the kindly relationship existing between themselves
and the recipient, Mr. Evan Jones (who had been a member of the Broseley
Wesleyan Church, and teacher in the Sunday School for some few years, and joint
secretary of the Broseley United Open Air Mission), on his leaving for Ontario,
Canada. Mr. W. Edge (circuit steward) made the presentation, and Messrs. J. E.
and E. R. Hartshorne also gave addresses. Mr. Evans thanked the friends for
their kindness and good wishes.
12th September 1903
MADELEY.
THE BLAST
FURNACES.— Next week the only furnace under blast at the Court iron works will
be blown out, as the ironstone and furnace coal have been nearly worked out,
and the three furnaces now standing will be dismantled, with the result that a
goodly number of men will require fresh employment. One or more of the furnaces
have been under blast since the year 1847, and have been the means of keeping a
large number of men employed during that time. The whole of the seams of coal
and stone are intact underneath the furnaces, and extending over an area of
some six acres, and includes a splendid seam of “ Top coal”, which will be
worked and sold by land-sale.
BOARD OF
GUARDIANS, Yesterday.— Present:— Mr. T. Weaver (chairman), Mr. W. G. Norris
(vice-chairman), Rev. W. A. Terry, Messrs. H. Boycott, W. Y. Owen, A. Rhodes,
W. F. Bryan, E. G. Exley, B. Maddox, R. Bateman, E. W. Shorting, E. J. Boulton,
J. Clayton, C. Edwards, J. Davies, H. Norgrove, A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (clerk), G.
Watson (master), J. C. Mole and W. Edge (relieving officers).— A letter was
read from Mrs. Terry (Benthall) stating she had no objection to being elected a
member of the Ladies’ Boarding-out Committee for Children. Mrs. Terry was
thereupon unanimously elected on the committee.— The Chairman informed the
members that at a meeting of the Quatt managers it was unanimously decided to
close the schools in March, 1905, and that no children be received after
September, 1904; therefore they would have to make arrangements for children
they could not board out— The following tenders were accepted:— Meat, Mr. J. W.
Wilcox, Iron-Bridge; coffins, Mr. Marrion, Madeley; printing, Mr. J. B. Slater,
Iron-Bridge; shaving and haircutting, Mr. R. Langford, Iron-Bridge; coal, Mr.
G. Peeler, Madeley.—The Visitors reported everything in the house to be in a
satisfactory condition, but were of opinion that the price for unbroken stones
for tramps was too high.
12th September 1903
IRON-BRIDGE.
TRIP.— The
members of the Station Hotel money club held their annual outing to the Wheel
of Worfield on Saturday, whither they journeyed in brakes. The day was fine,
and an enjoyable time was spent.
PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.
Before Messrs. W. G. Norris
(chairman), A. B. Dyas, W. Y. Owen, and E. W. Shorting.
BROSELEY
TOWN HALL— Mr. F. H. Potts (Broseley) applied for a theatrical license for
Broseley Town Hall.— Mr. Dyas asked if anything had been done to the hall.— Mr.
Norris said it was the most uncomfortable room in the borough the magistrates
had to sit in.— Mr. Potts: I am sorry to hear it, and would like to hear suggestions.—
Mr. Norris: I hope there will be considerable improvement.— Mr. Potts promised
to make the room as comfortable as possible.— The application was granted.
19th September 1903
IRON-BRIDGE
REVISION
COURT.— Last evening at the Police Court, Mr. Lawrence Morton Brown revised the
Parliamentary lists for the parishes Benthall, Broseley, Jackfield. Coalbrookdale,
Iron-Bridge, Madeley, Little Wenlock, Buildwas, Eaton Constantine, Leighton,
and Wroxeter.— Mr. J. T. Carrane Wellington represented the Liberal and Labour
Association for the
19th September 1903
BROSELEY.
LONDON
CITY MISSION.— A meeting in aid of this mission was held in the Boys’ School on
Tuesday evening, but through lack of interest or otherwise the attendance was
very meagre. The Rev. W. A. Terry (vicar of Benthall) presided, and Mr. R.
Smith (secretary for
HOSPITAL
SUNDAY.— On Sunday afternoon the eighth annual church parade of the Broseley
and District Friendly Societies took place. The members of the various friendly
societies met near the Broseley Wood School, and, forming, themselves into a procession,
proceeded in the following order through the principal streets to the Parish
Church:— Coalbrookdale Brass Band (under the leadership of Sergeant Beardshaw),
playing en route “Souza’s American Marches” and “Sword and Lance”; members of
the D.Co. 1st V.B. K.S.L.I. (under the command of Captain A. B. Garrett); Ambulance
Brigade (under the command of Chief Superintendent White and Superintendents J.
C. T. Raspass and H. W. Thomas) ; Church Lads Brigade (under the command of
Captain White); mace-bearers (Sergeant Noakes and Sergeant Bowen); the Mayor
(robed) and Corporation; honorary members; Order of Foresters; Jackfield Brass
Band (under the direction of Mr. George Aston, playing “The Commandant”, “The Scorcher”, and “Holy of Holies”); Order
of Modern Masons; and Order of Oddfellows. There was a large concourse of
people to witness the huge procession which was marshalled by Messrs. H.
Watkins and T. Lloyd. The Rev. J. E. Evershed of Leighton preached an able and
appropriate sermon. Mr. H. E. Clark read the lesson. There was a crowded congregation.
Special hymns were heartily sung by the choir and congregation. Messrs,
CENTENARY
OF BIRCH MEADOW BAPTIST CHURCH.— Sunday and Monday last were red letter days in
the history of this chapel, a church having been first formed there on
September 16, 1803, when 14 persons banded themselves together after the
apostolic order, viz., faith in Christ (a pro-requisite to baptism), then
baptism by immersion, afterwards joining in church fellowship; seven more were
added a few days afterwards, so that there has been a church at Birch Meadow
for 100 years. The event was celebrated on Sunday, when sermons of an eminently
practical character were preached (morning and evening) by Mr. Arthur Shinn
(late pastor of the church) of
10th October 1903
MUCH WENLOCK
BARROW
RURAL COUNCIL, Monday.— Present: —Councillors J. Davies (chairman), W. Allen,
A. G. Lascelles and Messrs G. Cooper (town clerk). G. Stevenson (surveyor). H.
Herbert (inspector), and J. Dixon (collector).— The Collector reported that he
had paid the sum of £301 8s. 5d. into the bank, which completed the general
district rate.—The Surveyor reported that he had expended on the roads in two
months £62 19s. 7d. Cheques for £175 were drawn in his favour. — A letter was
received from the Atcham Rural District Council complaining of the condition of
the Wenlock portion of the Little Wenlock Road. The surveyor was instructed to
visit the place, and report thereon at the next meeting.
PETTY SESSIONS.— TUESDAY.
Before Councillor T. Cooke (mayor),
Colonel J. A. Anstice, and Alderman J. Bodenham.
DRUNKENNESS.—Hiram
Rushton, grocer, Broseley, was, charged with being drunk at Benthall. Inspector
Hamlet proved the case, and defendant was fined 1s. and costs.— William Gittens
was charged with being drunk at Broseley. Police-constable Davies proved the
case, and defendant was fined £1 including costs — Charles Jones, Madeley,
charged with a similar offence by Police-constable Harper, was fined. 7s. 6d.
and costs. — Reuben James was charged with being drunk on licensed premises at
Broseley. Sergeant Bowen stated that he visited the Talbot Inn, kept by Mrs.
Bowen, and in the kitchen saw defendant sitting down drunk. The landlady
ordered defendant out several times, and eventually he went home with some
friends. Defendant had no drink supplied to him in the house. A fine of 15s.,
including the costs, was imposed.
10th October 1903
BROSELEY.
The famous Humber Light Car, 5 h.p., Price 125
guineas, will take you out and bring you back. Repairs and Accessories. Sole
District Agent, JAMES DAVIES, Broseley.
Broseley and District Fanciers’ Society.—Result
of block test competition:— Weight of pig 199lbs+; weight of sheep 761bs. The
prize winners are as follow :—For pig, G. Everall 199lbs., A. T. Corfleld
199lbs, S. J. Instone 199lbs. ; For sheep, A. R. Duckett 76lbs„ R. A. Instone
76lbs.- Please apply to W. Edge, jun., Mill House, Broseley.
HARVEST
THANKSGIVING SERVICES were held on Sunday in the Wesleyan Chapel, when two appropriate
sermons were preached by the Rev. J. Horden of Handsworth College, Birmingham
The choir fully sustained their usual reputation, giving in the evening a fine
interpretation of the anthem, “To Thee, O Lord, our hearts we raise”. There was
a good congregation at each service, and the chapel had been tastefully
decorated by members of the congregation.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:— Councillors E. G. Exley (chairman), E. Oakes, P.
Jones, T. Doughty, W. E. Southorn and Messrs. G. C. Cooper (town clerk), G.
Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and J. Dixon collector).— Mr.
Herbert reported that there were many cases of measles in the district— Mr.
Oakes said one school was closed in consequence. —The Clerk reported a balance
of £336 in hand.— The Surveyor said the expenses for the month were £19 18s. A
cheque for £30 was drawn in his favour to meet the ensuing month’s expenses.
Mr. Oakes remarked that the
24th October 1903
MADELEY:
DISTRICT COUNCIL.
WEDNESDAY.—
Present :— Alderman A. B. Dyas (chairman), Councillors W. Y. Owen, W. J. Legge,
F. G. Beddoes, A. G. Cartwright, R. F. Ayre, B. Maddox, W. F Bryan,
THE
HARRINGTON WATER. SUPPLY.— With reference to the water scheme the Chairman told
the meeting that as far as this side of the river was concerned they had done
away with the capital charges. They had engaged a practical man who would be
able to look after their mains. The clerk of the works would only be employed a
little while longer. There were 21 applications for the post, and Broseley
would pay one-fourth of the salary.— Mr. Bryan asked if the Local Government
Board had sanctioned the loan.— The Clerk replied that they had sanctioned
£13,000; the other £1,000 had been held over until the legal charges were
taxed.— Mr. Legge asked if any member could see the tenders that were not accepted,
for he considered this Board ought to have had a voice in the matter.— Mr.
Bryan: You promised that the tenders should come before this Board.— The
Chairman: I don’t think so.— Mr. Bryan; I beg your pardon, but you did, sir.
There have been no reports presented by the Water Committee.— The Chairman:
Then this committee might as well have done all the business. You must remember
that Broseley are shareholders in this matter.— Mr. Bryan: That is another
mistake the Water Committee made.— Mr. Maddox: Are we going to discuss the
history of the waterworks? If so I shall have something to say. Any member
could have put any question on the agenda. It is not right to say there have been
no reports presented for there have been, although I admit they have been very
brief. When the accounts are completed no doubt Mr. Vine will present them in a
proper form. Broseley is partner in this concern, and I think their cost will
be heavier than anticipated.— Mr. Cartwright said they had asked for reports on
the water scheme time after time, and had always been put off.— Mr. Beddoes
said with one exception the lowest tenders had always been accepted, and in
that particular case they were of divided opinion.— Mr. Legge: What was the
difference?— Mr. Beddoes: £900, which was in relation to engines. The chairman
was absent, and Messrs. Maddox, Ayre, and myself voted against it.— Mr. Ayre
said one of the reasons given for accepting this tender was that the Local
Government Board could not pass any other engine.— Mr. Legge: Why have the
competition?— Mr. Bryan said it was a case of spilt milk, and they could not
recover it.— The Chairman said when they saw the statement of accounts they
would be astonished, like he was, at the legal charges.— Mr. Maddox said the
impression was that the Water Committee had been playing with the money, and
had been spending it as free as chips.
31st October 1903
AN EARLY IRON-BUILT VESSEL
“The
Shipping World” contains this week an article descriptive of the first iron
ship—a full account of which appeared in the “Journal” some years ago from the
same pen—together with an excellent portrait and sketch by the writer, Mr. John
Randall of Madeley, who has been a contributor to the columns of the “Journal”
from its commencement.— Mr. J. Randall has supplied us with some interesting
information concerning the craft, which, it is said, was the first iron vessel
built. The ‘Trial’, as she was called, was registered at
31st October 1903
STORMS AND FLOODS.
Sad Scenes of Desolation all over the Country.
During the
latter part of last week and the earlier days of the present week rain fell for
hours incessantly all over the country, doing much damage and creating in many
places heavy floods in towns and villages, the low-lying districts suffering
especially from the torrential downpour.
For the
first time for many years the river at Iron-Bridge has risen so high that a portion
of the Wharfage road is covered with water, which all pedestrians have to wade
through. The river side is entirely blocked.
31st October 1903
Letters to the Editor
HARRINGTON
JOINT WATER SCHEME. Sir,— In consequence of your remarks in the last issue of
the “Journal” and the numerous complaints to which you refer, I beg to submit
to you a few facts on the above question, so that your readers may be able to
judge as to whether or not the work has been carried out satisfactorily.
The original
estimate of the engineer was £23,000. It took some time negotiating with
landowners over purchase of land for a pumping station. Negotiations with
Dawley which came to nothing also delayed matters. When the inquiry was held
considerable time had elapsed since the engineer’s estimate (which, any case,
could only be approximate) was made, and cost of materials-iron especially had
risen by leaps and bounds. The Local Government Inspector insisted on certain
alterations and additions, amongst them being that all pipes should be laid one
foot deeper than estimated for (affecting over 22 miles of main), that a considerable
extra length of main was insisted on for Broseley, much more expensive hydrants
and conduits were insisted on, a floating arm for each reservoir had to be put
in, and extra thickness of walls for the reservoirs was ordered. Then
negotiations with Shifnal for supplying their area with water were arranged,
and this necessitated larger pumping mains and increased reservoir capacity by
100,000 gallons; Shifnal will pay for this by an annual instalment, and also a
minimum sum of £100 per annum for the water supplied. All these charges have to
be included in the extra sum required by the Water Committee. The original
agreement with the landowners was that the water should be supplied to the
borough of Wenlock alone; when an agreement was made to supply Shifnal an extra
£300 was demanded for the land and additional law charges incurred. All this
appears in the loan, but which will be covered by an annual payment from
Shifnal. Great difficulty and extra expense were incurred by placing the mains
over the
All the
work was let by tenders duly advertised for, and in every case except one the
lowest tender was accepted, and with the one exception it was on the very
strong recommendation of the engineer that the tender was accepted, the others
not fulfilling the engineer’s specifications. In fairness to three members of
the Water Committee (Messrs. Ayre, Beddoes, and Maddox) it may be mentioned
that they voted against the acceptance of the higher tender.
The costs
incurred by Madeley in opposing the last Bill of the Wolverhampton Corporation
amounted to over £1,000; this is being paid out of this year’s rate, and means
more than a shilling rate on the Madeley Ward, hence the present high rate, the
Local Government Board not allowing it to be taken from the loan. With regard
to the above legal costs incurred, all these have been duly taxed by the Court,
as well as all other law costs.
The water
supply is now complete, and the water rents will more than pay the cost of
up-keep, and what is over will go towards the re-payment of interest on the
capital charge, and will be a source of profit in time to the Madeley Ward. Now
that all the contracts have been completed it remains with the engineer to
divide up the capital charges between Madeley and Broseley, and I think it will
be found that the works carried out in Broseley Ward have exceeded their estimated
expenditure in a greater proportion than Madeley. To conclude, two Local Government
Board inquiries have been held, and the strictest investigation has been made,
and not the slightest objection has been raised to any item of expense incurred
by the Water Committee.
Oswald House, Coalbrookdale. R. E. AYRE.
7th November 1903
BROSELEY
The famous Humber Light Car, 5 h.p, Price 125
guineas, will take you out and bring you back. Repairs and Accessories. Sole
District Agent, JAMES DAVIES, Broseley.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL, Wednesday.— Present:— Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Lord
Forester, Councillors E. G. Exley, P. Jones, T. Doughty, W. E. Southorn, R. A.
Instone, E. Oakes, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), Geo. Steenson (surveyor),
H. Herbert (inspector), and J. Dixon (collector):- The Chairman said the first
instalment of the old rate was completed, and there were no arrears.— The
Collector reported that he had begun the new rate, and had paid in the bank
£123 3s. 7d.— The Chairman stated that the balance in hand was £408 18s. 6d.
Their share to the opposition of the Wolverhampton Water Bill, he added, was
£432 18s. 3d., which represented a rate of 10d. in the pound.— Mr. Oakes said
they would not have to face that again.— The collector applied for an increase
in his salary, which was at present £21 10s. He asked for £30, and a bonus on
the first year for the collection of the water rate.— It was decided to give
Mr. Dixon a bonus of £8 10s. for this year only, and not to increase his
salary.— The Inspector reported a batch of nuisances, which were ordered to be
abated. He also reported a fatal case of diphtheria at Jackfield.— A cheque for
£100 on the main roads account was drawn in favour of the surveyor: The
Chairman reported that the collector had started to get in the water rate, and
he hoped the members would give him every assistance; £188 17s, 10d. had been
collected.— Mr. Doughty said many people could not see where the arrears came
in, when no rate had been levied: The Chairman said it was a new rate, and
people were not keen on paying it.— Mr. Oakes thought there were other
objections. He had heard it stated that the rate was not a legal one, in
consequence of not having been sealed.— The Town Clerk said he could not answer
the question, because he had not seen it.— Mr. Oakes contended that was the
great reason why people were not paying the rate. The late town clerk explained
that a seal was not necessary—that it was not a water rate, but water rent. The
Town Council, however, decided the rate should be sealed and the town clerk was
of opinion that it had been sealed. Mr. Oakes said there was another objection
which he had himself. He had plenty of water, and never had occasion to use the
public supply. He had been told if he had a good supply he would not have to
pay the rate.— The Town Clerk pointed out that he must have a supply of 25
gallons per head a day, and must also show that the water was good.— The
Chairman remarked that no doubt some members of the Council had a good supply
of water, the quantity and quality of which they must prove according to the
regulations of the Local Government Board. The proof rested with the person who
objected to pay the water rate. The committee had appointed Dr. Gepp as a kind
of arbitrator, who would analyse the water instead of bringing the people into
Court.— Mr. Oakes observed that the chairman of the Water Committee did not
have the water, and that was why he withheld his rate.- The Chairman said
anyone could object to Dr. Gepp trespassing on their property, but he did not
think that would be done. As for the quibble about the arrears, that was simply
an excuse to get out of the rate. He did not think there were half-a-dozen
people in Broseley who objected to pay the water rate.—Mr. Oakes said it was
hard on those people who never used the water to be called upon to pay for it.
7th November 1903
Letters to the Editor
HARRINGTON WATER SCHEME.
Sir,—
Whatever Mr. Ayre’s opinion may be in respect to your remarks in the “Journal”
of the 24th ult., as to the increase in our rates, I can assure you the
majority of the ratepayers of the Madeley Ward highly appreciate them. Mr.
Ayre’s various excuses for the original estimate being exceeded by £15,000 we
have heard repeatedly. How was it that their engineer knew so little of the
requirements of the Local Government Board as to get estimates for a pipe
trench two feet deep that should have been three feet? The leaps and bounds in
the price of material, with the deepened trench, cost us £5,740. Rather expensive
leaps and bounds! Then we have it that more expensive hydrants and conduits
were required. Were we going to have a jerry job made of it under the original
estimate? Then he says an extra £300 was demanded for the land and additional
law charges incurred. This must have been in respect to the Shifnal supply,
seeing that we paid £1,100 to the late town clerk for legal expenses. I presume
some portion of this £300 would be included in that. The whole land and compensation,
according to the balance-sheet produced at the inquiry, only cost £650 — a very
small item in the affair. Last year, when the rate was 3s. 8s. in the pound, we
were told that it was to pay the costs of the opposition to the Wolverhampton
Water Bill. Now Mr. Ayre says it is being paid out of this year’s rate. I think
it more likely we are paying the interest on the £13,000 odd that was borrowed
from the Bank before the loan was asked for from the Local Government Board. In
conclusion, he says: — “Two Local Government Board inquiries have been held,
and the strictest investigation made, and not the slightest objection has been
raised to any item of expense incurred by the Water Committee”. At the last
inquiry, with others, I was present, also Mr. Ayre; and how can he make such an
assertion? He knows well the hostile attitude of the ratepayers at that
inquiry; how their officials were plied with questions; how they bungled and
blundered over their replies; and the derisive remarks they were met with from
those present. And yet he says “not the slightest objection was raised”. May
the “Journal” long continue to show up any abuses in the local affairs of the
Madeley Ward! W. J. JEFFREY.
14th November 1903
A RATEPAYERS’ ASSOCIATION
FOR BROSELEY.
A public meeting
was held in the Town Hall, Broseley, on Tuesday, to consider the advisability
of forming a ratepayers’ association. Mr. J. Nicklin presided over a large
company, and, in opening the proceedings, said the meeting was important to
everyone, from the smallest to the largest ratepayer. He maintained that,
banded together, there was no reason why they should not form quite a powerful
association, and watch over the interests of the ratepayers generally, trying
to avoid extravagant expenditure, and, if necessary, to return a representative
of their own choice to the various public bodies of their town and district.
(Applause.) He said there was a “don’t care” spirit shown at the recent
election by some of the candidates, and in this respect, he argued, there was
room for improvement. If that kind of spirit was carried out in private business
the result would mean bankruptcy, and the shutters would have to go up. There
was never a more opportune time in which there was need for the strictest
economy. There was no mistaking the fact that there was a great diminution of
local trade, and if they increased the rates the power of pay receded. If there
was a desire to co-operate, he thought it would give birth to an organisation
which, in time, would do something towards levelling down the inequalities in
connection with the administration of local affairs. (Applause.) — Mr. Aquila
Evans said he had not known the trade of the town so bad for 30 years, and yet
the rates were increasing. Beyond the water supply, he asked where were the
other improvements in the town equal to the expenditure they were called upon
to pay. They did not have value for the money, and therefore it was the duty of
all to work together and bring about a better state of things. (Applause.)— Mr.
W. Benbow, considered that the money had been squandered away. It appeared that
an officer had only to ask for an increase in his salary, and he had it. He
contended that an association, as proposed, would prove a benefit to the
ratepayers. (Applause.)— Mr. P. Stephens said the present rates at Broseley
were 8s. 6d. in the pound, and he should like to know what they had had for
their money.— Mr. J. Jones proposed that a rate-payers’ and electors’
association be formed.— Mr. H. Cook seconded this, and it was carried
unanimously.— Mr. J. Nicklin was elected chairman of the association, Messrs.
A. Evans and H. Cooke vice-chairman, Mr. T. Legge secretary, and Mr. H. Wase
treasurer. A committee was also appointed.
14th November 1903
RAINFALL IN SOUTH SHROPSHIRE .
The
average rainfall during the past 25 years has been 27.96 inches upon 177 days.
Dividing this into periods of five years the average has been for periods
commencing 1878, 32.56 inches upon 200 days; 1883, 28.16, 180; 1888, 27.83,
162; 1893, 25.21, 175; 1898, 26.06, 171. The year 1879 is often quoted as the
wettest year. This was not the case in this district, as the following table
will show. I have also included the two dry years of 1887 and 1898:- 1882,
36.67 inches upon 227 days; 1878, 36.05, 194; 1880, 34.53, 188; 1886, 34.09,
202; 1891, 32.13, 193; 1885, 30.72, 196; 1879, 29.95, 202; 1887, 22.71, 155;
1893, 21.90, 156. The years in which the most rain has fallen up to the end of
October are 1903, 33.57 inches upon 174 days; 1878, 29.87, 165; 1882, 29.57,
177; 1880, 29.01, 149; 1879, 28.46, 183. We still require 3.10in. to bring the
rainfall for the year up to that of 1882. The average rainfall for the months
of November and December has been 4.94 inches upon 33 days. The rainfall for
November and December in 1879 was only 1.49 inches upon 19 days, the least
during 25 years. The years in which the most rain has fallen during the four
harvest months of July, August, September, and October are given in this
table:- 1903, 19.04 inches upon 80 days; 1880, 15.00, 63; 1891, 14.26, 72;
1878, 14.10, 63; 1879, 13.40, 69; 1885, 12.94, 66; 1882, 12.57, 84; 1902,
12.18, 69. As 1879 is so often quoted, and as it was a very bad agricultural
year, I give the rainfall in detail to compare with 1882, the year of greatest
rainfall, and also with the present year:- January-1879, 1.97 inches upon 10
days; 1882, 2.52 inches upon 14 days; 1903, 2.17 inches upon 20 days.
February-1879, 2.25 upon 22; 1882, 2-25 upon 14; 1903, 1-78 upon 10.
March-1879, 1.22 upon 15; 1882, 2.25 upon 11; 1903, 3.86 upon 26. April-1879,
2.43 upon 19; 1882, 3.93 upon 20; 1903, 1.49 upon 12. May-1879, 2.83 upon 23;
1882, 2.06 upon 16; 1903, 3.78 upon 18. June-1879, 4.36 upon 25; 1882, 4.19
upon 18; 1903, 1.45 upon 8. July-1879, 4.35 upon 19; 1882, 2.79 upon 25; 1903,
2.83 upon 16. August-1879, 5.25 upon 19; 1882, 1.85 upon 16; 1903, 6.18 upon
18. September-1879, 2.06 upon 19; 1882, 2.39 upon 18; 1903, 4.07 upon 17.
October-1879, 1.74 upon 12; 1832, 5.34 upon 25; 1903, 5.96 upon 29.
November-1879, 0.95 upon 11; 1882, 4.10 upon 25. December-1879, 0.54 upon 8;
1882, 3.00 upon 25. In 1879 I commenced my grain harvest upon September 8th and
completed it upon October 29th. In 1882 I commenced upon August 22nd and
completed upon October 5th. This year there is a large acreage of grain not carried
at the present time, and a good many fields not yet cut.
If the
November goose-bone be thick
So will the winter weather be;
If the
November goose-bone be thin
So will the winter weather be.
T. H. THURSFIELD
14th November 1903
WENLOCK.
Present:—
Councillor T. Cooke (mayor), Lord Forester, Colonel J. A. Anstice, Aldermen A.
B. Dyas, T. Bodenham, D. L. Prestage, G. Lloyd, T. H. Thursfield, Councillors
F. G. Beddoes, W. Y. Owen, T. Doughty, P. Jones, W. J. Legge, E. F. Groves, R.
F. Ayre, R. Lane, A. G. Lascelles, B. Maddox, W. F. Bryan, A. Dixon, F. J.
Hart, C. Edwards, E. G. Exley, J. Davies, T. Morris, and W. Evans, with Messrs.
F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), A. H. Thorn-Pudsey
(magistrates’ clerk), H. Herbert (inspector of nuisances), and J. W. While (borough
treasurer).
ELECTION
OF MAYOR.— Mr. Dyas said he had great pleasure in proposing that Councillor F.
G. Beddoes be elected Mayor for the ensuing year. They would all agree with him
that since he had been a member of the Council he had paid great attention to
his duties as Councillor. He had acted on important committees, and had shown
that he was a man of ability and assiduity, which was required to make a useful
member of the Corporation.— Colonel Anstice, in seconding the motion, remarked
that he felt sure they were doing the right thing in making Mr. Beddoes Mayor.
He was a man who had been active and energetic during the years he had served
on the Council, and there was no doubt he would carry out the duties as chief
magistrate in a satisfactory manner. (Applause.)— Mr. Bodenham supported the
motion, which was carried unanimously.— The new Mayor having taken the usual
oath, he said his first thanks were due to Mr. Dyas and Colonel Anstice for
proposing him as their Mayor for the ensuing year. He was greatly indebted to
them, and also to the other gentlemen who had spoken, for their kind remarks,
and also all of them for the cordial manner in which they had received them. He
was aware of the great responsibility the office of Mayor and chief magistrate
of this borough involved, but he assured them there would be nothing lacking on
his part to carry out those duties in an honourable and straight-forward manner,
as his predecessors had always done. (Applause.) He would have had some diffidence
in accepting the offices if he had not the confidence of each magistrate, who
he knew would assist him all he could. He had also great confidence in Mr.
Potts, their town clerk, and also Mr. Thorn-Pudsey, magistrates’ clerk, as well
as the other officials. Having eulogised the late Mayor (Mr. Cooke), whom he
congratulated on the manner in which he had conducted the affairs of the
borough during the past year, he said he was pleased to find there had been no vacancy
on the Council or staff through death. He regretted that Alderman R. E. Anstice
experienced such serious illness that prevented him attending their meetings,
but he hoped that ere long he would be restored to health and that they would
see him once more in the Council chamber. (Applause.) He was sorry that Mr.
Cartwright was not with them that day, but he welcomed his successor, Mr. E. F.
Groves, who was not altogether a new member. He thanked them very heartily, and
hoped the confidence they had placed in him they would have no cause to
regret.-(Applause.)
THANKS TO
THE EX-MAYOR.— Mr. Bodenham proposed a vote of thanks to Mr. Cooke (ex-Mayor).
When he proposed him as Mayor last year he said he would make an excellent
Mayor, and he had thoroughly confirmed that opinion. The year had been an
exceptional one, and he considered they should thank him for the manner in
which he had conducted the whole of the business.— Mr. Maddox seconded the vote
of thanks, and Messrs. Edwards, Dyas, Davies, and Prestage supported the
resolution, which was carried unanimously.— Mr. Cooke, in returning thanks,
said his year of office had been a pleasant one. He had received nothing but
kindness.
QUARTERLY
MEETINGS.— Mr. Maddox moved that the quarterly meetings be held on Mondays, and
Mr. Thursfield seconded the motion; but it was lost.
RETURNING
OFFICERS.— The Mayor proposed that Aldermen Thursfield, Dyas, Prestage, and
Bodenham be the returning officers for the various wards.— Mr. Ayre seconded
the motion, which was carried.
THE
STANDING COMMITTEES were then appointed.
THE
BOROUGH RATE.— The Mayor said the Finance Committee had gone very carefully
through the bills, and the amount now and becoming due for payment amounted to
£1,038 8s. 10d. There was £133 6s. 9d. in hand, and the amount to be raised by
a rate was £905 2s. 1d.— Mr. Dyas said the committee recommended a rate of 4d.
in the pound to be levied for the ensuing quarter. Threepence was for
educational purposes, and 1d. for the general district rate. He proposed a rate
of 4d. in the pound be levied.— Mr.Cooke seconded.— Mr. Maddox, in supporting
the adoption of the report, said it was very brief, considering it involved expenditure
of £1,000. The main part he believed belonged to education purposes, in which
the Council had no veto, or even a voice.— In reply to Mr. Maddox, the Clerk
stated that the recent election expenses amounted to £35. — Colonel Anstice was
of opinion that it would have been wiser finance if they levied another penny
for educational purposes. Although he was out-voted in committee, he was ready
to assent to a rate of 4d. He advised them to look more closely into the
various estimates. He did not wish to enforce the whole of the expenditure on
the ratepayers at once, but he asked them to keep an eye on the loans, which
they must try to lessen, and not to saddle the borough with an eternal debt.—
Mr. Thursfield said there appeared to be a doubt as to what was really wanted
for education purposes. He should like to hear some particulars from the
chairman of the Education Committee.— Mr. Cooke then explained what the
committee had done. He said they intended to pay off the loan in four years.
The bankers were very liberal, and they got the money at a very low rate.— The
report was adopted.
ASYLUM
VISITOR.— Colonel Anstice presented a report from the Asylum, which was
adopted; and, on the motion of Mr. Dyas, Colonel Anstice was re-elected a
representative of the Asylum for the next 12 months.
THE MAIN
ROADS.— Colonel Anstice told the Council that their agreement with the County
Council in regard to the repair of the main roads expired in April next, and he
moved that the surveyor should prepare a report showing the probable estimated
expenditure on the roads for the next five years.— Mr. Owen seconded the motion,
which was supported by Mr. Cooke.— Mr. Maddox said nothing was mentioned as to
applying to the County Council to take over the main roads in the borough. He
said other boroughs were receiving larger sums of money for their roads than
they were, and he considered this was an injustice to that borough. He hoped
they would make out a strong case, and obtain more allowance.— The motion was
carried.
THE
EDUCATION ACT.— The Mayor said the next business was to receive a recommendation
of the Education Committee with reference to the sum of money to he paid to Mr.
A. H. Thorn-Pudsey for preparing the scheme and carrying the Education Act,
1902, into effect in this borough.— Mr. Cooke said the Education Committee had
gone into the matter, and recommended that £20 be paid Mr. Thorn-Pudsey for
carrying the scheme into effect. He said there was a lot of work attached to
it. He proposed that they pay Mr. Thorn-Pudsey £20.— Mr. Dyas, in seconding the
motion, said they had gone carefully into the matter.— Mr. Bodenham did not
think they should make a permanent increase.— The Mayor said it was not so.—
Colonel Anstice remarked that the Education Committee unanimously recommended
the sum of £20 to be paid.— Mr. Maddox held that the sum was excessive.— Mr.
Thursfield said they were there to spend the ratepayers’ money. The rates were
rising to such an extent that they were sapping the life-blood from the
agriculturists in the district, and therefore he considered every tender should
be discussed and voted on.— Mr. Prestage asked if this work was done for the
Advisory Committee, and the Mayor replied in the affirmative.—The report was
adopted.
THE
MEDICAL OFFICER.— Colonel Anstice said Dr. Gepp’s appointment as medical officer
would expire in December next, and he moved that they endeavour to renew his engagement
on the same terms for five years.— Mr. Thursfield seconded the motion, which
was carried.
ANALYSIS.—
The Clerk said Mr. Blunt reported that there had been 15 samples analysed
during the last quarter, and that none was adulterated.— Mr. Cooke thought the
charge of 13 guineas was too much. The analysis had been taken in
CHURCH
PARADE.— The Mayor said he proposed attending the church at Wenlock on Sunday,
and he hoped all the members of the Council would attend.
28th November 1903
JACKFIELD.
PRESENTATIONS.
On Wednesday a pleasing event took place at the works of Messrs. Maw and Co.,
Ltd., the occasion being the presentation of a handsome dressing case (which
had been supplied by Mr. James Davies, King Street, Broseley) by the workpeople
connected with the above-named firm to Mr. John Youden, junr., on his resigning
the management of the order department, which position he had filled for
upwards of four years, his courteous and gentlemanly demeanour securing him the
greatest respect from all with whom he came in contact.- Mr. Peter Stephan, who
made the presentation, in the course of a stirring speech, said they had met to
show their appreciation of the courtesy and kindness Mr. Youden had always
exercised towards them as workmen during the time he had been amongst them.
They were sorry Mr. Youden was leaving them; but they trusted their loss would
be his gain, and that he would have a bright and happy future.— Mr. Youden, on
rising to respond, was received with rounds of applause. He said he was greatly
obliged to then for their kindness, and he appreciated it very much. He had
received nothing but kindness from them whilst he had been connected with the
works; they were always willing to do anything he asked them. Of course, they
had their little differences occasionally, which were inevitable; but he never
bore malice, and after he had had his say they were as good friends as ever. He
was leaving to conduct an entirely new business at
5th December 1903
BROSELEY
The famous Humber Light Car, 5 h.p. Price 125
guineas will take you out and bring you back. Repairs and Accessories. Sole
District Agent, JAMES DAVIES, Broseley.
BURIAL
BOARD.- The annual meeting was held on Wednesday, when the Alderman D. L.
Prestage was unanimously re-elected chairman for the ensuing year. Mr F. H.
Potts was appointed clerk at a salary of £10 a year.- The chairman reported a
balance in hand of £31 0s. 2d.
ACCIDENT.-
On Saturday a sad accident occurred to a young man named Frederick Walter
Bagley of High Street, who whilst playing with the Broseley Church Choir football
team collided with one of the Jackfield Unity players, and sustained a compound
fracture of the collar bone. He is
progressing favourably as can be expected.
DISTRICT
COUNCIL.- Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (Chairman), Councillors W. E.
Southorn, T. Doughty, E. Oakes, R. A. Instone, E. G. Exley, Messrs. F. H. Potts
(town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and J. Dixon
(collector).- This being the annual meeting, Mr Prestage was re-elected
chairman for the ensuing year, and the various committees were elected.- The
collector reported that he had collected in the general district rate since the
last meeting amounting to £234 13s. 7d. With reference to the water rate, he
said he was having a lot of worry. He however had collected £256 11s. and there
was £54 12s. 10d. still unpaid.– The Chairman said he thought they should take
steps to recover the arrears.- In reply to Mr. Oakes, the Chairman said he had
arranged with Dr. Gepp to examine the water from the premises of those people
who said they had plenty.- The Collector presented a list of defaulters. He
said people objected to the arrears.- The Chairman said it was a new rate, and
they must expect some opposition. He contended that those people who derived
benefit from the water should pay the very just rate.- Mr Doughty moved that
they take proceedings against the defaulters on December 14th, which
was seconded by the Chairman, and carried unanimously. The Clerk reported a balance of £643 12s. 1d
in hand, and cheques amounting to £230 were drawn to pay accounts at the
present meeting. – The Inspector reported two more cases of diphtheria at
Jackfield,- The Chairman said there were three tenders for scavenging:- T.
Instone £25, T, Burroughs £40 and F. Oakley £34.- Mr. Instone’s tender was the
one accepted.
26th December 1903
BROSELEY.
CHRISTMAS
FESTIVITIES.— The tradesmen here made every preparation to meet the wants of
their customers at this festive season of the year, the shop windows being
specially attractive.
DEATH OF
AN OLD RESIDENT.— On Sunday there quietly passed away, in her 73rd year, Mrs.
Rebecca Davis, relict of Mr. George Davis, brick and tile manufacturer,
Broseley. She was greatly respected by all who knew her.
WESLEY GUILD.— On Tuesday the members of this guild held their usual meeting in the Wesleyan Schoolroom. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne presided, and Mr. H. Williams of Coalport gave an interesting address on “Bible Ambitions”. Christmas carols were sung, Mr. J. A. Hartshorne accompanying on the harmonium. There was a good attendance.