Extracts from

The Wellington Journal

and

Shrewsbury News

1907

 

 

relating to Broseley and District

 

 

 

 

 

Broseley Local History Society

2004

5th January 1907

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL.

WEDNESDAY.

Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Lord Forester, Councillors G. Keay, T. I. Griffiths, and, T. Nicklin, with Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), and E. Oakes (rate collector).

The Chairman thanked the committee for re-electing him to the chair another year, and said he would do his best for the Council.

Mr. J. Mason (painter) again wrote respecting his tender for painting the lamps. He reminded the Authority that they were dealing with public money; and in wishing the committee “A happy New Year” he said his motto for the year was, "”Do to others as you wished to toe done unto”. (Laughter.)- The ques­tion was deferred for a month.

Mr. Herbert reported eight cases of scarlet fever in five houses. He suggested that the schools be closed an additional fortnight.- The officer was in­structed to communicate with Dr. Gepp on the matter.

With reference to the lighting up of Coalport Ferry, Mr. Griffiths remarked that the Madeley landing right belonged to the Madeley Wood Company.- A letter was read from Mr. Cadman (manager), who was of opinion that the committee should erect a gas lamp.- The Chairman observed that it was private property, and the owners should find their own light.-Mr. Nicklin said he was of the same opinion.- Mr. Griffiths remarked that an oil-lamp would be as good as the gas. He thought they would hear further from the Madeley Wood Company.

Mr. Abberley reported that he had inspected the water-mains in the town, and found them all in good condition. He had had trouble with the conduits through the frost.

The Clerk stated that there was a debit balance on the water account of £126 15s. l1d., and a balance in hand on the general account of £149 13s., the net result being a balance of £22 17s. 1d in hand.­- Bills were submitted for payment to the amount of £147.- The Collector complained that he experienced great difficulty in getting in the money.- Mr. Keay said they should be careful how they worked. They must not be too hard with the ratepayers.

Mr. Keay complained that the roads in the vicinity of Broseley Wood were not being ashed over during the very bad weather.- The surveyor made a note of the remark.

 

 

 

BROSELEY.

DEATH OF AN OLD RESIDENT.- On Sunday there suddenly passed away one of the Oldest residents in the town, Mr. John Denstone of Barratt's Hill. He was sitting by the fireside apparently in his usual health, when he suddenly exclaimed to his son, “ I am done”, and almost immediately expired. Deceased, who would have been 92 years of age had he lived until February, worked at the Benthall potteries for 74 years, during which time he had served under four different employers.- On Tuesday Mr. Coroner Potts held an in­quest on the body, and the jury returned a verdict of  “Death from natural causes”.

DISTRIBUTION OF PRIZES.- The annual distribution of prizes to the scholars attending the Birch Meadow Baptist Sunday School took place on Tuesday, in the Upper Schoolroom, which had been tastefully decorated by the teachers. The scholars were served with coffee or tea and buns, after which the prizes were distributed by Mr. A. B Broadhurst (superintendent), who delivered an appropriate address. Mr. W. Jor­dan also addressed the, meeting. A number of friends were present to witness the interesting function. The awards were for attendances made and text of Scripture committed to memory during the year, and consisted of some very valuable books. The following succeeded in obtaining prizes, having been present and punctual every time the school was opened for 50 Sundays and upwards:- A. E. Broadhurst, Ernest Pope, Thomas Britton, Arthur Britton, James Britton, Arthur Sneyd, Harold Anslow, Bader Britton, Leonard Pope, Edith Rowe, Dorothy Anslow, May Bate, Maggie Roberts, Bettie Roberts, Nellie Lister, Genie Rowe, Hilda Lister, Doris Gallier, and Ethel Sneyd. Next in order of merit were:-Cuthbert Bate, Edward Boden, George Roberts, Harold Hurdley, Arthur Boden, James Roberts, Wilfrid Boden, Harry Hurdley, Percy Boden, G. Roberts (Coneybury), Harry Boden, Noah Lee, Willie Roberts, Tommy Roberts, John Roberts, Eddie Bullock, Willie Bullock, Tommy Roberts (Fox), Teddie Lister, Victor Williams, Stephen Lee, Bertie Roberts, Alice Broadhurst, Lucy Rowe, Lily Hurdley, Sarah Hurdley, Freda Hurdley, Olive Smallman, Nancy Roberts, Jane Hill, Bessie Williams, Edith Williams, Lily Legge, Ella Roberts, Minnie Davis, Hilda Legge, Lizzie Lee, and Gladys Rowe. During the evening a well-rendered programme was sustained by the following:- May Bate, Nellie Lister, Mrs. Pope, Doris Gallier, Lily Hurdley, Maggie Roberts, Hilda Lister, Miss Leadbetter, and the scholars.

If you wish to realise the value of Phillips and Co.'s Pure Cocoa, compare it with the finest Cocoa you have ever drunk, and afterwards compare the prices. Packets 4½d.: tins 6½d. 1s. and 1s, lld.-(Advt.)

 

January 12th 1907

JACKFIELD.

The Funeral, of Mrs. Eleanor Pumford, The Severn Trow, took place at All Saints' Church, Broseley, on Wednesday The service, which was conducted by the. Rev. Marsden Edwards, rector of Jackfield, was very impressive, and a large number of relatives and friends of deceased followed, the cortege and attended the church. The hymn, “Brief life is here our por­tion”, was impressively sang by the choir of Jackfield, who kindly tendered their services. The coffin was borne to the grave by 12 friends, by whom deceased was deeply respected, and was interred in the family vault. The chief mourners were- Mr. A. Pumford (husband). Mr. E. O. Ball (son), Mr. and Mrs. H. R. Hill (daughter and son-in-law), Miss D. Ball (daughter), Mr. and Mrs. Walter O. Candy (daughter and son-in-law), Mr. E. Oakes (brother) and family, Mr. and Mrs. J. Bridge (sister and brother-in-law), Mas­ter M. R. Hill (grandson), Master E. Ball (grand­son), Mr. H. Quarry (brother-in-law), Mr. E. Juckes, and a, number of other relatives and friends. The floral tributes were choice and numerous.

Those who have once learnt to appreciate Phillips's Choice Teas can drink no other. Blends-1/4, 1/6. 1/8. 2/- per lb.-(Advt)

 

26th January 1907

BROSELEY.

DEATH or MRS. SHORTING.-  The death occurred on the 20th inst., at Kimpton Vicarage., Herts., of Mrs. Shorting, wife of the Rev. G. H. C. Shorting, and slaughter of Mr. E. B. Potts, Broseley.

SPECIAL SERVICES were held in the Old Baptist Chapel on Sunday, Sermons were preached morning and evening by Mr. W. S. Hall of Dawley Bank. There were fair congregations, and collections were taken in aid of the cause.

LANTERN READING.- On Wednesday evening a highly-interesting and instructive reading, on “The testi­mony and sufferings of Nonconformists in the reign of Queen Elizabeth” (Bryan Dale, M.A.), was given in the Congregational Schoolroom by Mr. Albert Thomas, and was beautifully illustrated by means of a magic-lantern, the slides being manipulated by Mr. Albert Wilkes. There was a moderate attend­ance, aid a collection was taken in aid of the “Chris­tian Endeavour Society”.

 

 

 

PETTY SESSIONS.-TUESDAY.

Before Messrs. R. F. Ayre (mayor), A. B. Dyas, W. J. Ledge J. Davies, and G. D. Collins.

SEQUEL To CAROL-SINGING.- Frederick Reynolds, labourer, Broseley, was charged with stealing a fowl, value 4s., belonging to Henry Haycock, Hem Farm, Linley; and John Pope, labourer, Broseley, was charged with being in a certain outhouse for an un­lawful purpose.- Henry Haycock stated that about 3.30 on Christmas Day four men came to his house carol-singing. He told them he did not want any carol-singing, and ordered them off, and away they went in the direction of the farm buildings. He produced the fowl, which he valued at 4s.-Isaac Garbett, labourer, Broseley, stated that he was one of the party who went to Haycock's house carol-sing­ing. He and Sergeant left the defendants behind, but shortly afterwards they came up, and he heard someone shouting; he believed it was the cowman.-­ Robert Sergeant, labourer, corroborated.- Robert Preece, cowman, said he heard someone singing carols. He afterwards saw the men, and subsequently heard a fowl “scream”. He went in the direction of the noise, and saw Reynolds holding the fowl under his arm. Witness shouted, upon which Rey­nolds dropped the fowl, and the defendants ran away. He saw Pope come out of the fowlhouse.- Police-constable Reeves (Jackfield) also gave evidence.- Rey­nolds pleaded not guilty, and gave evidence on oath. He admitted going to Haycock's house singing carols.-Pope also pleaded not guilty.-Defendants were each sentenced to 14 days’ imprisonment.

COAL-STEALING.- Frederick Wilkes, miner, Madeley, was charged with stealing 30lb. weight of coal, value 3d., the property of the Madeley Wood Company.- Police-constable Wakeley stated that, in company with Police-constable Heatley, he concealed himself in a stable, and saw Wilkes, who is in the employ of the company, pick up the coal produced from a stack, and walk away with it. Witness went to him and took possession of the coal, Wilkes stating that he was taking it home for a “raker”, and expressing hope that he would not be locked up.- Defendant pleaded guilty.-He was ordered to pay 19s. costs, and bound over to be of good behaviour for 12 months.

BEGINNING.-Arthur Hodson, tramp, was sentenced to 7 days’ imprisonment for begging at Linley.- Police-constable Lycett proved the case.

Dairee has the delicate flavour of good butter, and is Quite as nutritious.-(Advt.)

 

2nd February 1907

Letters to the Editor

COALPORT FERRY.

Sir,- The extreme darkness both of the mornings and evenings at this season renders the river crossing highly dangerous, arid although the Wenlock Corpo­ration authorities have been appealed to repeatedly to replace the gaslights’ that formerly existed and lighted the approaches to the ferry on each side, they have obstinately refused these petitions, and I am assured that nothing less that a serious accident befalling some high official, such as the drowning or a Mayor, Alderman, or, Councillor-one of these-would be sufficient to remedy-the evil,

I have, therefore, in view of the danger that is constantly impending over the community from the absence of a sufficient light, been advised to cease running the boat until such time as it may be safe to do

                                          LEVI  DOUGHTY.

Coalport Ferry, Coalport.

 

9th February 1907

Letters to the Editor

COALPORT FERRY.

Sir,- The letter that appeared in your last week's issue re the dangerous ferry at Coalport only serves to show the great necessity there is for a footbridge across the Severn at some convenient point. Unfortu­nately, it is not the landings that are dangerous, but the ferry-boats themselves, especially in flood time, and it is fortunate that there are not more accidents than there are. I hope, however, in order to get the evil remedied, it will not be necessary for the present Mayor or his colleagues to be sacrificed, but if it should be necessary for a victim, I would suggest a member of the County Council, for it is that august body who will do nothing in the matter, although they can spend three or four thousand pounds on a new bridge at Buildwas, which is very little used in comparison to what a footbridge would be if placed at some point between Coalport and Iron-Bridge.

The Madeley Sanitary Committee have decided to devote Mr. Haynes's legacy of some £640 towards a footbridge, and the County Council have been asked to meet a deputation from the Wenlock Town Council or to give a reasonable grant in aid of the project, but so far they have not responded.

        R. F. AYRE,, Mayor of Wenlock.

Oswald House, Coalbrookdale.

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL.
WEDNESDAY.

Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors E. G. Exley, T. Instone, G. Keay, T. I. Griffiths, T. Doughty, and J. Nicklin, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), Geo. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), D. Oakes (collector), and Dr. Gepp (medical officer).

Dr. Gepp expressed his opinion that the scarlet­-fever epidemic was dying away. No cases had been notified during the present month. Altogether there had been 35 cases in 21 houses. The schools were closed, and he thought they would be throughout this month. The doctor remarked that scarlet fever was not so dangerous as formerly. He referred to a case in which a boy was affected mildly, who went to a place in the mornings to clean boots, and at night did lathering for a barber. The case was first detected at the former place, where the boy’s hands began to peel.- Mr. Nicklin said he was astounded to hear of such a case. With all their precautions they hardly knew when they would be able to stamp out the epidemic.- Dr. Gepp said there were many cases of scarlet fever that a doctor could do no more than suspect. It was a disease that would not be stamped, out at all.- The Chairman observed that there were undoubtedly mild cases that the parents would cure themselves rather than call in a doctor.- Dr. Gepp: If you can prove that the Authority can prosecute.- Mr. Keay : If a doctor cannot always tell, how can you expect the parents to do so?- Mr. Nicklin said he was of opinion that the cases should have been isolated.- Dr. Gepp remarked that the smallpox isola­tion hospital was not large enough-the accommoda­tion was not sufficient to deal with a large number of cases. The, Authority, he added, had done all they possibly could to abate the epidemic.- The Chairman said the hospital had cost enough money, but if it was opened it would a great deal more.- Mr. Doughty stated that the Broseley Wood children were stopped from going to Jackfield.- Mr. Nicklin: Are all the Sunday schools closed?- Mr. Herbert replied in the affirmative.

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

The Clerk said there was a balance in hand on both accounts of £410. Cheques required that day to pay bills amounted to £396.- Mr. Oakes stated that £250 was yet to be collected.

With reference to the lighting up of the approaches to the Coalport ferry, Mr. Doughty said he was of opinion that if the Council were not liable for the lighting up of that part of the river, they should compel the Madeley Wood Company to light it.- This Clerk said he did not think they could do so.- Mr. Nicklin suggested a readjustment of the public lamps at Jackfield.-The Chairman remarked hat be did not see why they should light up the landing rights which were claimed by the Madeley Wood Company.- The Clerk was instructed to write the Madeley Wood Company on the matter.

The Town Clerk presented his estimate of the, ex­penditure for the ensuing year, amounting to £1,596.­ A rate of  3s. in the pound was ordered to be levied, which is a reduction of 4d. in the pound.

 

BROSELEY.

Death.- Early on Wednesday there quietly passed away, in his 67th year, Mr. Jonas Abraham Burnet of High Street. Deceased was a member of a well-­known Broseley family, and had carried on the business of a grocer and provision dealer for many years, retiring a few years back through failing health. He was greatly respected by a large circle of friends, who sympathise with the bereaved family.

LITERACY EVENING.- On Wednesday the usual weekly meeting of the Broseley Wesley Guild was held in the Wesleyan Schoolroom. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne pre­sided over a fairly good attendance.- Mr. L. F. Bartle, Iron-Bridge, gave an excellent paper on the subject, “Is War Beneficial to the Human Race?”  which drew forth an interesting in which the following took part:- Messrs. E. R., J. A., and A. T. Hartshorne, G. Aston, A. Williams, B. Jones, S. Jones, and Mrs. E. R. Hartshorne. The various criticisms were ably replied to by Mr. Bartle, to whom a vote of thank’s was heartily accorded for his valued paper in the cause of peace.

RENT AUDIT.- Lord Forester's rent audit was held on Thursday at the Lion Hotel. After the rents were received from the tenantry by Mr. Hamilton (agent), he presided at the dinner. Mr. H. Onions occupied the vice-chair. The healths of Lord and Lady Forester, and also that of Captain George Forester were en­thusiastically drunk. There were other toasts, and at intervals songs were rendered by the company.

LIBERAL ASSOCIATION.- On Monday a lecture on “The House of Lords and the Education Question” was given by Mr. J. L. Hartshorne, in the club­room, Mr. Jones presiding over a moderate attendance. Speaking of the House of Lords, the lecturer said there was a variety of opinion extant in regard to what should be done with that assembly. Person­ally, he was prepared to leave the matter in the hands of the Prime Minister, who, he felt sure, would be able to find a way out of the difficulty. The sug­gestion thrown out by Mr. Herbert Gladstone could not be entertained for a moment, so that something would have to be done to bring the Second Chamber more in conformity with the will of the nation. In regard to the education question, the lecturer said he considered it of the utmost importance that all the children should receive a thoroughly sound edu­cation to fit them for the battle of life. He was in favour of an undenominational system of religious education, but was strongly opposed to dogma or sectarianism being taught in any school supported by the nation. He was not in favour of a purely secular system of education. He thought such a bill would be thrown out by the Lords, and that their action would be supported by the bulk of the nation. An animated discussion ensued, in which the following, took part:-Messrs. E. R. Hartshorne, A. Malpass, C. Onions, T. Garbett, and the chairman.

When your doctor orders you to drink Cocoa, it is essential that you should obtain the best. This you can always depend upon doing- if you buy it from Phillips's. Packets 4½d.; tins 6½d.,1s., & 1s. 11d..-(Ad.)

 

16th February 1907

Letters to the Editor

JACKFIELD FERRY.

Sir,- The letter in last week's issue of the JOURNAL concerning Jackfield Ferry rather impresses me as exceedingly weak. The writer suggests that nothing short of an accident in crossing the ferry to a repre­sentative of the County Council may have the desired effect of a bridge being erected at the county’s ex­pense. Secondly, he informs us that the Madeley Sanitary Committee have decided to devote the Haynes bequest towards the erection of a foot­bridge at the same place. Now, sir, I maintain that this is more than they can do. The legacy was bequeathed with the direct intention of benefiting Iron-Bridge, not Jackfield.                                          T. H. HAYNES

 

BROSELEY.

FUNERAL.- The remains of the late Mr. Jonas Abraham Burnet of High Street were laid to rest in the family vault at Birch Meadow Baptist Chapel, amidst every demonstration of respect. The service was impressively conducted by the Rev. J. Cade, Wesleyan minister of Madeley Wood. The cortege left the late residence of the deceased, the bearers being Messrs. H. J. Rushton, S. Hill, J. H. Inions, S. T. Instone, P. A. Instone, and E. R. Instone. The mourners were:- Messrs. Archie Burnet (son), Henry Burnet (brother), Wm. Burnet, Henry Burnet, A. A. Exley (cousins), T. Francis (son-in-law), A. Evans (brother-in-law). A number of magnificent floral tri­butes were sent by relatives and friends.

LECTURE.- At the special request of the members of the Broseley Branch of the Liberal and Labour- As­sociation, a lecture, entitled, “Historical Shropshire”, was given in the clubroom by Mr. W. H. Southouse, Madeley Wood, on Wednesday evening. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne presided over a moderate attendance. The lecturer, at the outset, said his lecture was not in any sense political, and that on the present oc­casion he dissociated himself entirely therefrom. He said Shropshire was the largest inland county in England and described with much clearness and ability its position, the fertility of the soil or land; and no county, he said, possessed more interesting scenery. He had visited nearly every county in England, but never had he witnessed better scenery than can be seen from the Wrekin and Benthall Edge. Ellesmere Lake covered 116 acres of ground. He described at some length the origin of different names given to various towns, instancing Shrewsbury as de­riving its name from the word “Pengwern”, the Boating Club in that town still retaining that appellation. Henry VIII. wished to make Shrews­bury a city, but the people of that town preferred it to remain as it is at present- the chief town, hence the term “Proud Salopian”. In 680 a nunnery was in existence there, which was afterwards destroyed by the Danes. Speaking of the lead mines at Minsterley, the lecturer said there was evidence extant that these mines had been worked by the Romans. There were at one time 30 castles in Shropshire, now there were only two or three; the remainder being mere dykes. Madeley was, in years gone by, a park, as the name Park Street, Park Lane, Rough Park, im­plies and abounded in deer and game of every description. Game on the surrounding hills was also strictly preserved for the pleasure and benefit of Royalty. The district afterwards became a veritable hive of industry.- Mr. Southouse was thanked for his Lecture.

Ask your grocer for Phillips's 2s. Tea. Do not be put off with something “quite as good”. There, is nothing quite as good.-(Advt.)

 

23rd February 1907

Letters to the Editor

JACKFIELD FERRY.

Sir,- In your last issue I notice that a correspondent, signing himself T. H. Haynes, tells us in very de­cided language that it is more than the Madeley Sanitary Committee can do to devote the “Haynes“ bequest to the erection of a free bridge over the River Severn, and that the legacy was bequeathed with the direct intention of benefiting Iron-Bridge, not Jackfield.

Now I do not think it likely that the two latter words appear in the will, and as regards it being a benefit to Jackfield, surely he does not begrudge the crumbs that fall from the rich man’s table, as the benefit would be 99 per cent. for Iron-Bridge.

Probably Mr. Haynes is not aware that the proposed free bridge is to be erected at the end of Jackfield, next adjoining Iron-Bridge? At this point hundreds of Iron-Bridge people cross the river to their daily occupation, against which the number of Jackfield people who cross for the same purpose could easily be counted on, one’s fingers. The advantage to Jack­field would be for shopping purposes; here, again, Iron-Bridge shopkeepers would get the benefit by increased trade.

Iron-Bridge people have clearly shown what would be advantageous to them by their voting at the last two Council elections, where the candidate who was not conclusively for a free bridge had the honour of a back seat!

It would perhaps be interesting to learn some sug­gestion which will give Iron-Bridge a greater and exclusive benefit in which. Jackfield could in no way share.                      TOWNSMAN.    Iron-Bridge.

 

2nd March 1907

 

BROSELEY

SUDDEN DEATH. -  On Wednesday morning Mr. John Powis, proprietor of the Crown Inn, High Street, was seized with a stroke from the effects of which he died some few hours after. Deceased was in his 67th year, and was all old resident of the town. He leaves a wife, one son, and four daughters to mourn his loss

LANTERN LECTURE.- On Wednesday evening Mr. Albert Thomas of Broseley gave a deeply interesting and instructive lecture, entitled, “The Gipsy Girl and her Dying Saviour”, illustrated by means of a magic lantern, in the Congregational Schoolroom. During the evening Miss Ethel Anderson gave a, recitation entitled, “The Road to Heaven”. Miss Hattie Jones Sang the solo, “Only Tired”, and Mr. Edgar Hands contributed a violin solo. The pro­ceeds are in aid of the Broseley Christian Endeavour Society.

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH.- On Tuesday afternoon Bishop Mather (acting for the Bishop of Hereford) held a confirmation service in this church. The Rev. G. F. Lamb M.A. (rector of Broseley), also took part in the service. There were also present:- The Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, M.A. (Rector of Jackfield), and the Rev. W. A. Terry (Vicar of Benthall). There were 17 candidates, Broseley supplying 9, Jackfield 4, and Benthall 4. Both before and after the “laying on of hands”, the Bishop delivered an impressive and prac­tical address to the members of the church and the candidates. Appropriate hymns were rendered by the choir. There was a good congregation.

ENTERTAINMENT.- On Tuesday evening “The Victo­rian Players” gave a variety entertainment in the Town Hall. The first part of the programme was opened with a brilliantly-executed pianoforte solo by Mr. W. Davis, after which the entire company sang. the chorus, “Four of us and four of you”. Mr. W. Davies gave a much-appreciated song, followed by Mr. F. Hill, with a comic ditty. Mr. F. H. Martin gave an able interpretation of the monologue, “The Old Bachelor”, and Miss Instone delighted the audience with her song, “When the minister comes to tea”, which was encored. Mr. W. Price gave the character-song, “Mein Faderland”, which was also encored. Mr. W. Davies sang- “The Jovial Monk”. The monologue, “The Fallen Star”, was one of Mr. F. H. Martin’s finest efforts, and resulted in a well ­deserved re-call. Miss G. Preston sang in a pleasing manner “Penelope”, receiving a flattering re-­demand. Mr. F. Hill sang a comic song, "Chicago". The second part was commenced with the, pianoforte solo, “Valse”, given by Mr. W. Davis. Messrs. F. Hill, W. Price, P. Preston, and W. Davies next gave an amusing rendition of “The Catastrophe”, followed by the character-song, “The Shipwreck”, effectively rendered by Mr. F. Hill. The concluding piece, en­titled “The Rehearsal”, was as follows:- The scene was laid in Miss Hope’s drawing-room. Miss Charity Hope (a lady of doubtful years but undoubted vivacity) was finely portrayed by Miss G. Preston. .Miss Hebe Love (a contralto who reaches E below) was also capably impersonated by Miss L. Hill. Miss Innocent Young (who has sung nowhere) was the part allotted to Miss J. Rushton, and was ably fulfilled. Maria (a domestic) was portrayed in a realistic and charming manner by Miss S. I. Instone. Mr. Irving Lackaday was ably impersonated by Mr. F. H. Martin. Mr. Handel Turner was carried out by Mr. W. Price in his characteristic style. Mr. Ernest Warbler was undertaken by Mr. W. Instone, whose selection was fully justified. Mr. Tony Barrel (a baritone) also carried his role to perfection. Mr. Whiteley Black - (an amateur Ethiopian) was the role of Mr. F. Hill, whose clever impersonation of “The Stump Orator” caused much laughter. There was a large company present, who evidently appreciated the “bill-of-fare” provided for them. The accompaniments were divided between Miss Instone and Mr. W. Davis.

Phillips & Co.’s 1/6 Ceylon Tea is a new blend, and  is much superior to any other 1/6 tea offered. It is pence per lb. superior to the companies’ shops’ best teas –(Advt.)

 

9th March 1907

BROSELEY LICENSING SESSIONS

The adjourned Licensing Sessions were held on Tuesday, before Councillor R. F. Ayre (mayor), Captain Geo. Forester, Dr. Collins, Alderman J. Davies, and Coun­cillor B. Maddox. Major Atcherley (Chief Constable) was also present.

The Magistrates' Clark (Mr. A. H. Thorn-Pudsey) stated that the objections to the renewal of the licenses of the Bird-in-Hand (Iron-Bridge), the Jug (Coalport), Prince of Wales (Broseley), Seven Stars (Broseley), and Railway Tavern (Much Wenlock) had been withdrawn.- Mr. Carrane, who represented The Jug and Railway Tavern, objected to the withdrawal notices, on the grounds that they were bad.- The Mayor said the superintendent had served the notices by the order of the Licensing Justices.- Mr. Carrane I want to show that the houses I represent are required for the neighbourhood, and I ask that the licenses be renewed. I should like to call witnesses to prove that the houses are required.- The Mayor: I am afraid we cannot hear any evidence.- Mr. Carrane: If you won’t hear me I cannot be heard.- Mr. Ayre: I am sorry we can’t hear you. We grant the, licenses.

The objection to the renewal of the license of the Wheat Sheaf beerhouse, Iron-Bridge, was then dealt with. Mr, J. W. Littlewood appeared for the owners, Eley's Stafford Brewery, Limited, and Mr. G. H. Espley represented the tenant, Mrs, Sarah Ann Preece.­ Superintendent Walters stated that the house was not required for the needs of the district. The present tenant had been in occupation of the; premises since December last, previous to which them was a great difficulty in obtaining a tenant. The house consisted of three rooms upstairs and four down. He visited the house on February 15, and found be whole of the rooms in an untidy state and scantily furnished. There was no stabling or accommodation for vehicles of any kind. There was only one entrance to the premises, and that at the front door abutting on the street. Within a radius of 500 yards then were 10 fully-licensed public hones and one beerhouse. The While Hart was only 30 yards away.- Inspector Jones corroborated-Sergeant Noakes also gave evidence.- Sarah Ann Preece, tenant, stated that the business had considerably increased, her takings being nearly £6 a week. The reason the rooms were untidy when the police called was on account of unpacking the furniture- Mr. Littlewood, addressing the, Bench, said he considered the objections brought forward against the renewal of the license of this house were trumpery. The trade had increased; the figures spoke for themselves, and should be considered by the Bench. He asked for the licence to be granted for another year, and that in the meantime the ten houses men­tioned should be visited. His clients had only pur­chased the house last Christmas. He strongly contended that the house was required for the needs of the district- Mr. Espley also addressed the Bench, on behalf of the tenant.- The Mayor remarked that the question of the renewal would be referred to the Compensation Authority, but in the meantime a pro­visional renewal of the license would be granted.

The renewal of the license of the Coopers’ Arms, Madeley, was also objected to. Mr. J. H. Holmes represented the owners, the trustees of the late Mr. Ed, Wright, and also the traders, T. Cooper and Co.- Superintendent Walters deposed that the beerhouse in question had its first provisional license granted in the year 1865. The present tenant was John Gallies, and the owners are the, executors of the late Ed. Wright, Burton-on-Trent. The house contained four rooms up and four down. He visited the house last month, and found all the rooms, with the exception of the smoke-room, in an untidy state. In the vicinity there were three full-licensed houses, 10 beerhouses, and a grocer's license. In the last 15 years there had been seven transfers, and in one year (1904) there were three transfers. He considered the house in question was not required for the needs of the neighbourhood.- By Mr. Holmes: There was no conviction against the house.-Inspector Jones and Sergeant Noakes gave corroborative evidence.- Henry William Goodger, solicitor, Burton-on-Trent, and one of the owners of the house, stated that he had frequently visited the house, and always found the floor and tables clean. The ceiling was black, caused by the gas, but the house had been painted and papered in the year 1904.- By the Superintendent : The tenant was a manager.- Hugh Walter, agent for T. Cooper and Co., stated that he had always found the house very clean.- Mr. Holmes contended that they were beginning at the wrong end, as there had never been a conviction recorded against the house.- The Mayor said the Justices were of opinion that the question of the renewal of this license should be referred to the Compensation Authority, and in the meantime a provisional renewal world be granted.

 

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL.

WEDNESDAY.

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

Mr. Herbert reported that since the last meeting, there had been further outbreaks of scarlet fever in three houses. There were four cases in one house at Ladywood. There were several cases he said, that did not get notified; the doctor was as a rule only called in to see the worst cases.- Mr. Nicklin remarked that in such circumstances they were hopeless to deal with it.- The Chairman was of opinion that it would be quite as well to open the schools, as then he thought the children would be more isolated.- Mr. Griffiths said, in his opinion, it would be quite as well.-Mr. Nicklin observed that he did not think it would improve matters.- The Inspector said it was not the sanitary conditions that caused the fever, but the carelessness of the parents. The schools would be closed till Easter.- Mr. Nicklin thought it should go forth to the pub­lic that the Council were doing their duty.­ The Chairman said they could only appeal to the parents to be more careful, and he suggested that the inspector should caution them.- Mr. Herbert said there were five infected house, but two would be disinfected this week.-Mr. Keay observed that the people were in favour of the isolation hospital being opened.- The Chairman did not see that, through the carelessness of the parents, the whole district should be put to the expense of opening the isolation hospital. Another thing, that hospital was erected for a more malignant disease.

Mr. Herbert reported several nuisances, which were ordered to be abated.

Mr. Abberley, in his report, stated that he had inspected the water mains, and found them all in good order. The pumping at Posenhall Reservoir had been badly kept up, and the supply would only last 24 hours.­

The Chairman said there were only 18 inches of water in the reservoir.

The Clerk reported a balance in hand on the two accounts of £131 18s. 3d.- Mr. Oakes said he had to collect on the general district rate £64 3s. 7d., and on the water rate £62 4s. 3d. He produced a list of rate defaulters, and he was instructed to take proceedings for the recovery of the rate.

The Clerk stated that he had heard nothing more respecting the lighting up of the approaches to the Coalport ferry.

It was decided to charge the trustees of the Forester Charity Hospital £5 a quarter for water.

Mr. Nicklin referred to the condition of Cockshutt Road, and the surveyor was instructed to attend, for the complaint.

Mr. Keay called attention to the state of the Cobwell ashpit, and the surveyor was instructed to repair it.

Mr. Keay also complained of the poor light in the gas Lamps, and this matter was left in the hands of the surveyor.

 

 

BROSELEY.

BURIAL BOARD.- Alderman Prestage presided at a meeting of this body on Wednesday, when the clerk (Mr. F. H. Potts) reported a balance of £13 in hand.

PETTY SESSIONS.-At the Court on Tuesday, William Oakley was charged with being drunk at Jackfield, and was fined 12 s 6d., including costs.- Police-constable Reeves proved the case.

FUNERALS-On Sunday afternoon the remains of the late Miss Elizabeth Morgan of Simpson's Lane, Broseley Wood, were interred in the graveyard attached to Broseley Congregational Church. Deceased, who quietly passed away on the 26th ult., was 58 years of age, and had been a consistent member of the Broseley Congregational Church for 35 years, and had rendered excellent services as a member of the choir for 40 years. The Rev. Sydney Smith of the Congregational College, Bristol, conducted the service both in the chapel and at the graveside in a very impressive manner. The choir sang the hymns “O God, our help in ages past" and " Now the Labourer's task is o'er", and before the sermon in the evening the anthem, "No Shadows Yonder", and at the close of the service -the organist (Mr. George Tonkiss) gave a pathetic interpretation of the " Dead March", the Congregation standing. Mr. A. Evans (choirmaster) conducted. Beautiful wreaths were contributed- On Saturday afternoon the remains of the late Mr. John Powis of High Street were interred in Broseley Cemetery, amidst every demonstration of respect. The ser­vices in the church and at the graveside were impressively, conducted by the Rev. G. F. Lamb, M.A. (rector). Wreaths of a very choice description were contributed by relatives and friends.

LIBERAL AND LABOUR ASSOCIATION- Yesterday week Mr. C. Lingard of Iron-Bridge gave a very able paper in “Drink and Social Problems", in the Broseley Clubroom. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne Presided over a fair attendance. Referring to poverty, nothing, said the speaker, touched the problem more than drunkenness; every one knew it, and nothing made against- progress so much. We are al­ways confronted with the greed of the drink tragic. The publican would not close his house even one day a week, yet the butcher. baker, and grocer, do more than this. Nothing touched the efficiency of a nation as this question of strong drink. He, strongly con­demned the system of tied-bosses. He considered it a great evil and unjust to the publicans, some of whom he knew to be good men, but they had to sell whatever article the brewer sent them. The employ­ment of barmaids, he contended, was a disgrace, and detrimental to their highest interest, and air-gun clubs held in public-houses led to drunkenness. In his opinion the " Pure Beer Bill" would do a great deal of good in the direction of temperance. A con­firmed drunkard, he said, should never marry. There were 90,000 members of the, Trades Unions of this country who were total abstainers, which was a grand moral force, and a great power far good, and they had three million members in their Bands of Hope, the latter being his greatest hope, for if a person never tasted strong drink they would never want it. An animated discussion ensued, in which the following took; part :- Messrs. A. Malpas. A. Evans, F. Holland, G. Ball, and J. Jones.- Mr. Lingard replied to the various criticisms.

WOMAN SUFFRAGE.-This was the subject of a very interesting payer by Mr. E. R. Hartshorne, The Cottage, in the Committee Room of the Liberal and Labour Association, on Monday evening. Mr. A. Malpas, in his usual genial manner, presided over a moderate attendance. Mr. Hartshorne, at the outset, said it, was not his intention to probe very deeply into the subject matter of this paper, but rather to state certain facts and adduce arguments in favour there­of, in order that the Question might be thoroughly ventilated, and a just. decision arrived at. He took up, as he considered, the cause of the oppressed; the Liberal party had always done this, and still contained their noble efforts. If the women of the pre­sent day were brave enough to endure the obloquy, illtreatment, and suffer even imprisonment for the sake of others, there must he something in the cause they represent worthy of such a sacrifice, which should at least command admiration and respect. The answer given to " Passive Resisters" has been that they should rise, their influence and vote to get the obnoxious Edu­cation Bill, introduced by Mr. Balfour and passed by him and his party, repealed. Women were debarred of their choicest possession, Liberty, having from the earliest times been kept in a state of bondage, not having the privilege of their "lords", who are able to meet together and discuss matters, thereby sharpening their intellect. The principle had been acknowledged by allowing women to vote in muni­cipal matters; they were also allowed to become mem­bers of Boards of Guardians, where they have proved themselves as capable as the other sex. A long and animated discussion followed, in which the following took part .-Messrs. T. Legge, G. Taylor, T. Garbett. J. Jones, and the Chairman. There was no vote taken, but the number for and; against appeared about equal.

 

March 30, 1907

BROSELEY.

ODDFELLOW’S FUNERAL.-The funeral of the late Mr. Alfred Jones took place on Saturday in the presence of a large crowd of sorrowing people. Deceased was a member of the Iron-Bridge Oddfellows, and a con­tingent of the Order was in attendance. Mr. R. Bunnagar read the Order's oration, and the Rev. Marsden Edwards was the officiating clergyman.

“THE HOUSING PROBLEM”.- This was the subject of an interesting paper given by Councillor Walter Roberts, J.P., of Iron-Bridge in the clubroom of the Liberal and Labour Association on Monday even­ing. Mr. J. E. Hartshorne presided over a good attendance. Mr. Roberts said the paper he had prepared referred more especially to the condition of things in our large towns and cities, though he was fully aware of the fact that the problem of overcrowding did unfortunately exist in our rural and urban districts, though less acute. The object he had in view that evening was to stir up an inte­rest in the question. He drew a vivid and appalling picture of the condition in which not only the poorest but the whole mass of the workers -men and women- were herded together like animals. Was it to be wondered at, therefore, that indecency and demorali­sation existed under such circumstances? He strongly condemned the owners of slumland, who imposed heavy rents (and grew rich thereby) for such in-sanitary tenements. The great cause of this, he contended, was the rush from the rural districts to the towns and cities, for if every man, good or bad, were taken into account, there would not be enough room or the whole of the labouring classes to be properly housed. The question of the hour was, “Back to the land”; but in order that this matter might be successfully accomplished, let the owners of property in the rural and urban districts first see to it that they set their own house in order. Legislation alone would not solve the question. It must be backed up by the overwhelming voice of the people, who, having studied the question for themselves and become firmly convinced of its supreme importance to the nation as a whole, it would only then be a matter of time before its final consumma­tion. A discussion followed, in which there took part- Messrs. T. Legge, A. Malpas, J. Jones, E. R. Hartshorne, T. Garbett, G. Meredith, and George Harrison. Councillor Roberts replied to the various criticisms, and a vote of thanks was accorded him.

 

30th March 1907

WENLOCK EDUCATION COMMITTEE.

WEDNESDAY.

Present—Alderman T. Cooke (chairman), Mr. J. H. A. Whitley (vice-chairman), Captain Geo. Forester, Aldermen A. B. Dyas, D. L. Prestage, and J. Davies, Mrs. Squire, Miss Rowland, Messrs. C. Edwards, W. H. Southouse, A. F. Hartshorn, F. H. Potts (town clerk, and J. H. Gurnhill. (treasurer).—Alderman Dyas remarked that the new terms of the united Counties Bank were considered satisfactory by the Finance Committee, and the balance appearing due from the treasurer that day was £1,888 16s. 4d. Cheques had that day been signed for £544 5s. 11d., leaving, he said, a nice balance in hand of £1,100- Alderman Prestage was of opinion that the total turnover would be about £8,000, adding that they would be better off under the new arrangement.—The Chairman: Particularly if the Government will pay the grants more frequently.— It was agreed to accept the new banking terms.

Several teachers were granted an increase in their salaries, which Mr. Dyas remarked were the annual increments.

The resignations of Miss B. Stevenson and Miss S. L. Stevenson were accepted.—Miss Elsie Jones was appointed headmistress of the Much Wenlock Infants School, at a salary of £80 a year.—Miss M. Yates was appointed provisional assistant at the Much Wenlock School at a salary of £23 a year.—Miss McCoy was appointed supplementary teacher in the Broseley Wood School, at a salary of £30 yearly.

The Clerk was instructed to send a circular letter to the correspondents of the several schools asking them to give their prizes for attendance as soon as possible after the close of the school year.

 

30th March 1907

Letters to the Editor

SHROPSHIRE CLAY INDUSTRY.

Sir,— I see from the report of the County Council meeting that two gentlemen were co-opted as members of the Secondary and Technical Education Committee for the county. One of these gentlemen was interested in the iron trade and the other one in agriculture. It is a pity that the clay industry of the county is not represented in any way, and by the clay industry I mean everyone included in the trade from the manufacture of Coalport china down to the making of the coarser day goods. The number of people employed in this industry is about 1,500, while the engineering and iron trades employ some 2,300 people, so that the latter industry is more than well represented, having some three members on the committee. There will no doubt, be work of great importance to the various industries of the county carried out by the Secondary Committee, and apparently one of the most important industries will be unrepresented in their Councils.   

R. P. AYRE.

Coalbrookdale.

 

6th April 1907

BROSELEY CYCLIST’S DEATH.

The death took place in the Salop Infirmary on Thursday of Thomas Hughes (16), who resided at King Street, Broseley. On Monday last the youth was riding a bicycle, when he collided with a cart, sustaining injuries which resulted in his death.

An inquest was held on the body yesterday, before Mr. R. E. Clarke, Coroner, at Shrewsbury.—William Kenyon, King Street, Broseley, identified the body of deceased, who, he said, had worked with him as an assistant. On Monday last the youth started out for the Wrekin on a bicycle, and he next saw him in the Salop Infirmary, where Hughes told him that he had met with his injuries through falling from his bicycle after losing control of it. He added that there was no one to blame.—Fanny Williams, Chapel Street, Dawley, stated that while driving in a governess car up the Coalbrookdale Bank on Monday, the deceased, who was riding a bicycle, and was on the wrong side of the road, ran into her trap. The front of the machine rose in the air, and the deceased fell backwards.—Dr. Buckle said the deceased was admitted to the Infirmary on Monday evening, suffering from shock, and internal injuries, which necessitated an operation. He died on Thursday morning from shock, consequent upon the injury.—The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death”.

 

THE LADY FORESTER TRUST

The Trustees invite TENDERS for the Supply of the under-mentioned Articles to the COTTAGE HOSPITAL BROSELEY, from the 1st May 1907,to April 30th 1908 (both inclusive):- 1. Groceries. 2. Butchers’ Meat. 3. Coals and Coke. 2. Milk and Eggs. 5. Haberdashery. 6. Wines, Spirits, and Mineral Waters 7. Horse Hire for Ambulance and Conveyances. Forms of Tender (upon which only Tenders will be received) and conditions of Contract may be obtained form the Matron, Memorial Hospital, Much Wenlock.

Tenders must be in, addressed to “The Lady Forester Trustees, memorial Hospital, Much Wenlock”, sealed, and endorsed “Tender for - -”, not later than Monday, April 22nd, 1907.

The Trustees do not bind themselves to accept the Lowest or any Tender and reserve the right to accept either in whole or in part.

 

 

13th April 1907

MADELEY COUNTY COURT.

WEDNESDAY.

Before his Honour Judge Harris Lea.

A QUOIT CLUB’S EXCURSION.- Thomas Instone, livery stable keeper, Broseley, sued John Hancocks, Hodge Bower, Iron-Bridge, for £2 16s. , the sum alleged to be due from defendant for the hire of a brake,- Defendant denied liability.-Mr G. H. Espey appeared for plaintiff whose case was that on Whit Monday last a number of quoit players wished to pay a visit to Shrewsbury to play a match, and the defendant, as the captain of the Hodge Bower Club, undertook to obtain a brake, the expenses of which he said would be guaranteed to him by their Shrewsbury rivals.  On the way back 21s. was collected from the occupants of the coach, but plaintiff’s son who was driving, refused to take it, as he said Mr Hancocks was responsible for payment for the whole of them, at the rate of 2s. 6d. per head, and it was he who had engaged the brake.- Defendant now stated that he did not engage the brake; it was a man named Morris who had left the locality, who did it. Defendant paid his half-crown to Morris, and several others did the same.- The Judge gave judgment for defendant, but did not allow costs.

DISPUTED BALANCE OF ACCOUNT.-The executors of the late James Leadbetter, Broseley, claimed from Samuel Thomas Instone, butcher, &c Broseley, the sum of £2 19s. 9d, balance of account, but the defendant denied that liability, and claimed from plaintiffs £1 14s.- Mr Thorn Pudsey appeared for the plaintiffs, and Mr G. H. Espley for the defendant.- It was stated for plaintiffs that for several years the partied had reciprocally traded, and it was only when the accounts came up recently for a final settlement that defendant denied that he owed the amount which was now claimed.- On the other hand defendant disputed over 50 items in the account rendered to him, and said he had failed to get the accounts when he asked for them, or he would have detected the errors earlier.- The Judge found for plaintiffs for £1 19s., and dismissed the counterclaim.

DISPUTED CLAIMS.- The executors of the late James Leadbetter, Broseley, claimed £1 14s. 5d. from James Clark cabinet maker, but credit was now given which reduced the claim to 14s. 8d. In this cane also there had been inter-trading for years and a running account since 1899.- After hearing the evidence the Judge said he must do something to discourage the discreditable system of carrying on business year after year, and he was going to do all he could to try to stop people adopting a course of submitting bills for goods which had been obtained three or four years before the accounts had been sent in.  Instead of giving interest, he would take something off as far as he could.  It was a wretched system not to submit bills in a prompt and systematic way.  He would give judgement for plaintiff for 12s.

 

13th April 1907

A BROSELEY SUICIDE.

On Tuesday morning the body of Mr. Saml. Davis of High Street, Broseley, was found in a small shed in Batches Lane with a handkerchief tied tightly round his neck, and attached to a ring in the manger, his feet being upon the ground. The deceased was 47 years of age, and had been manager of the Dunge Brick and Tile Works for some years. He also held the position of secretary to the local Oddfellows’ club for some years, the duties of which he carried eat with integrity, and he was one of the trustees of the lodge on to the time of his death. Deceased was greatly respected.

On Wednesday Mr. F. H. Potts, borough coroner, held an inquest; on the body of deceased.

Edwin Davis said deceased was his brother. The latter had managed a brickworks carried on by Mr George Davis sen. He also had an interest in the works. He (witness) was also interested in the weeks. Trade had been bad, and his brother had had a difficulty in meeting the liabilities of the business but he had never said anything to him about it.

James Burton Carver said that he went to the Batches on an errand for Mr. Smith, and went into a shed, and saw deceased had a white handkerchief round his neck. He was lying on the left side with his knees drawn up, and the head hanging from a ring, which was only 20 inches from the floor. Deceased was dead. Witness did not cut deceased down because he did not think it was his duty.—The Coroner: Then you would let the man lie there and die? He might have been alive. Why did you not untie the handkerchief? —Witness: It startled me. I was afraid. I am certain deceased was dead.

Police-constable Reeves deposed that the shed was 200 yards from the office. He produced the handkerchief, which was tied tightly round the neck. He cut the body down, which he found was warm, but the extremities were cold. He was of opinion that deceased had been there a few hours.

After some further evidence the Coroner summed up, and the jury found that “Deceased strangled himself whilst temporarily insane”.

 

FORESTER COTTAGE HOSPITAL

Two miles from the town of Iron-Bridge, and on the main road to Bridgnorth, and in close proximity to All Saints’ Parish Church, Broseley, stands the new Forester Cottage hospital, which was opened this week for patients As at Wenlock there was no formal opening. The pretty building is partly surrounded with a very substantial brick and I terra cotta wall in the Gothic style. The entrance wooden gates are of pretty design. In the entrance hall are two tablets, one of which bears the names of the trustees and those of the architect, Mr. E. B. I. Anson, and the builders, Messrs. Willcock and Co., Wolverhampton. On the other tablet is this:—“To the glory of God, and for the good of mankind, this Cottage Hospital was erected and endowed in memory of George Cecil Weld Forester, third ford Forester, by his wife, Mary Anne Lady Forester”.

Lord Forester represented Wenlock from 1828 to 1874, when he succeeded his brother in the peerage. He was the “Father of the House of Commons”. There are eight beds, and two cots in the wards, which are admirably arranged. The operating theatre, which is fully equipped, is laid out with all the latest improvements, the flooring of which is of marble mosaic, and has a picturesque appearance. There are two up-to-date bath-rooms, and well furnished rooms for a matron and six nurses. The hospital it lighted up with incandescent light, and the floors are polished pitch pine blocks. The fully equipped laundry, with all the latest improvements, occupies another position of the grounds. There is also a smart-looking lodge, in which the very genial and obliging caretakers (Mr. and Mrs. Griffiths) reside. The matron is Miss Basket. There are also two acres of ground, which may be looked upon as a parade ground for the convalescent patients. The hospital will form a residence for the district nurses, who will probably relieve the sisters from Much Wenlock. Not only does the building improve the appearance of the town, but will also prove a great boon to the working classes of the neighbourhood. Dr. Boon has been appointed house-surgeon.

 

13th April 1907

BROSELEY.

SPECIAL SERVICES—On Sunday Mr. H. J. Banks of Wolverhampton preached two able sermons in the Birch Meadow Baptist Chapel. Special hymns were nicely rendered by the children. A collection was taken at the close of each service in aid of chapel expenses.

SUDDEN DEATH.— Yesterday week the lifeless body of Mr. George Davies of High Street was found on the top of the hill leading to the Park. He had been ailing for some years, and, having received medicalfor the last 12 months, an inquest was not considered necessary.

COMEDY.—On Wednesday evening a large and fashionable audience was present in the Town Hall to witness the performance of Pinero's popular comedy, “Sweet Lavender”, placed upon the boards by “The  Victorian Players”, which, under the capable direction Mr. F. Howard Martin. proved a great success. Mr. W. Edge, jun., gave a good interpretation  of Mr. Geoffrey Wedderburn (of Wedderburn, Green, Heskett, Bankers, Barnchester) and Mr. F. Reward Martin’s portrayal of Clement Hale (his adopted son studying for the Bar) was very fine, displaying histrionic and elocutionary abilities of no mean order. Mr. Allan Ledger was also very successful as Dr. Delaney (a fashionable physician) and Mr. W. Price's impersonation of Dick Phenyl (a barrister) was a great success. Mr. Fred Hill’s portrayal

Horace Bream (a young American) was clever and effective. Mr. W. Instone gave a faithful and appreciative delineation of Mr. Maw (a solicitor), and Mr. P. Preston, who undertook the role of Mr. Bulger (hairdresser and wigmaker) at a day’s notice, acquitted himself remarkably well. Miss J. Rushton, in the character of Mrs. Gilfillian (a widow-Mr. Wedderburn's sister), was a pronounced success, being most  realistic. Miss E. S. Instone in the role of  Minnie (her daughter) proved herself a most vivacious and charming actress. Miss L. Hill also cleverly impersonated Ruth Rolt (housekeeper and laundress of Brain Court), but the heroine of the piece was Miss G. A. Preston, whose clever and graceful impersonation of Lavender (her daughter) was most marked and appreciated. The musical arrangements were in the capable hands of Miss Ethel White  (Iron-Bridge), hon. pianist to the “Victorian Players”. The proceeds are in aid of Broseley Cricket Club funds. On Thursday evening the performance was  repeated with marked success.

 

20th April 1907

LINLEY.

MARRIAGE.— On Tuesday a pretty wedding took place at the picturesque old church of this place the contracting parties being Mr. W. S. Instone, eldest son of Mr. Thomas Instone, High Street, Broseley, and Miss Harriet Lawley, only daughter of the late Mr. F. and Mrs. Lawley of Loughton, Burwarton. The bride was given away by her brother, who also acted as “best man”. The bride wore a dress of grey voile, trimmed with white silk, and hat to match the bridesmaid's (Miss O. Instone) dress was of navy blue, and hat to match. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. G. F. Lamb, rector. After the register was signed the party adjourned to the hall, where between 30 and 40 sat down to the wedding breakfast provided by Mrs. Wooler. Presents to the number of 40 were received. As the bridal party were leaving the church the Wheatland Hounds passed through the drive in full cry, and came in for a good share of rice and confetti.

 

20th April 1907

BROSELEY.

FUNERAL.- Yesterday week the remains of the late Mr. Samuel Davies of High Street, Broseley, were interred in the cemetery. The Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, M.A. (rector of Jackfield) was the officiating clergyman. There was a large and representative gathering, including the tradesmen of the town, a whose business was partially or wholly suspended during the solemn obsequies, and as further proof of a the respect in which the deceased was held the blinds were drawn at most of the private houses.

PETTY SESSIONS.-TUESDAY.

Before Messrs. R. F. Ayre (Mayor), A. B. Dyas,  W. J. Legge, E. W. Shorting, B. Maddox, and W. Roberts.

BRAVERY REWARDED.— The Mayor said, before they proceeded with the business of the Court, he had a very pleasant office to perform, and that, was to present Ernest Roberts (Iron-Bridge) with the Royal Humane Society’s parchment for the act of bravery in which he saved a child's life. The circumstances of the case were that a little girl named May Watson was picking blackberries on the Severn side at Iron-Bridge, when she fell in the river, and was carried away down the stream about 150 yards, the river being high at the time. Roberts was standing on the river side opposite the Jackfield ferry, and seeing the child in the stream he jumped into the river, and saved the child’s life. He (the Mayor) had great  pleasure in handing the certificate to him. The Magistrates’ Clerk and the Bench also wished him to accept a sum of money subscribed by them. (Applause.)—Roberts, who is an ex-soldier, accepted the gift with thanks.

 

27th April 1907

JACKFIELD.

PRESENTATION.- On Monday Mr. C. B. Moore, Hockley Road House, Broseley, was the recipient, of a handsome set of Coalport china, fruit-dishes from his colleagues in the drawing office at Messrs. Maw's Works, Jackfield, the occasion being his recent marriage. Mr. J. Mason made the presentation, and Mr. Moore suitably responded.

 

4th May 1907

BROSELEY.

BOLWING GREEN.—A beautiful bowling green, belonging to the members of he Victoria Institute, was opened this week. It is situated in the centre at the town, and is in the pink of condition, Mr. T. Jones is secretary of the newly-formed dub.

SPECIAL SERVICES.— On Sunday two impressive sermons were preached (morning and evening) in the Birch Meadow Baptist Chapel by Mr. David Smith of Bilston. Special hymns were well rendered by the children and choir, under the direction of Mr. E. A. Broadhurst. There was a moderate attendance at each service. A collection was taken at the close in aid of chapel funds.

PLEASURE FAIR.- Amidst showers of hail and rain and cold winds this annual event, shorn of its ancient pageantry was held in a field adjoining the New Road on Tuesday. Owing to various causes it was the poorest fair, both in regard to attendance and exhibits, on record.

GYMNASTIC SOCIETY.— The annual meeting of the Benthall and District Gymnastic Society was held in the Old Reading Room on Monday. The accounts, for the past year showed a deficit of a few pence, which was caused by the purchase of a considerable amount of apparatus during the year. Mr. A. O. Jones, Chapel House, Broseley, was re-elected secretary.

COURT LEET.—The annual meeting of this old association took place on Tuesday. The preliminary meeting was held at the Court House, the residence of Mr. Nathaniel Hartshorne, where Mr. E. B. Potts (secretary) swore in the jury. The constables were re-appointed, and the accounts passed. The meeting afterwards adjourned to the Lion Hotel, where a good company sat down to a capital dinner, given by Lord Forester. Mr. George Potts presided, and Mr. H. Roberts occupied the vice-chair. After the cloth was removed the usual toasts were duly honoured but none were so enthusiastically received as the toasts of “Lord and Lady Forester”, submitted by Mr. H. Roberts. Songs were rendered by the company during the evening.

SUDDEN DEATH.—Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry on Monday at the Town Hall concerning the death of George Lewis, 49, a drover, who expired suddenly on the previous day. It appeared from the evidence that deceased, a single man, lived with his mother in Foundry Lane. He had not been in the best of health for a considerable period, and on Thursday he saw Dr. Perry, who gave him a bottle of medicine, and told him to go to bed. Lewis kept to his bed till Saturday, when he got up and went out. Early on Sunday he rose, and, after having a cup of tea, suddenly expired in his chair.—Dr. Perry said deceased had been suffering from heart trouble. —A verdict of “Death from natural causes” was returned.

 

4th May 1907

MADELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

THE PROPOSED BRIDGE.- Mr. Bryan asked if anything had been heard from the County Council regarding the footbridge across the Severn.- The, Clerk said he had received a communication from the County Council to the effect that they could not contribute any­thing towards the bridge.

 

 

11th May 1907

SALOP COUNTY COUNCIL

Roads and Bridges.

In the report of the roads and Bridges Committee, it was shown that Mr. R, Blakeway Phillips had been re-elected chairman. The following amounts were recommended for payment in respect of the maintenance of main roads:- Dawley Urban District:, Council £224 7s. 3d.; Ellesmere, £234 2s. 9d.; Newport, £258 1s.; Wellington,: £322 12s. 6d.; Whitchurch; £500; Bishops Castle (Borough), £380.; Bridgnorth, £237 10s.; Ludlow,£246 5s. 2d.; Oswestry, £713 108. 4d.; Shrewsbury, £1,520 0s. 8d.; Wenlock. £1,650; total £6,936 9s. 8d. The Council were also recommended to enter into another agreement with the Wenlock Town Council to pay them the sum of £1,650 per annum for five years for the maintenance of the main roads within their district (26 miles, 5 furlongs). The Worcester County Council had submitted further plans and an estimate for widening the Teme county bridge at Tenbury, and it was now recommended that the Salop County Council should contribute a sum of £700 towards the, cost of the proposed work; also that the relative advantages of a ferro-concrete and a steel girder bridge should be taken into consideration in conjunction with Worcester County Council.

Mr. Blakeway Phillips proposed the adoption  of the report.

Mr Yates asked whether it was the duty of the County Council to water the highways running through the villages, and at the same time he complained of the dust nuisance.

Mr. Phillips said they were under no legal obligation to do so. Several rural authorities had approached them on the matter, and it had been considered; but the committee thought it inadvisable to proceed in the direction indicated on account of the great expense that it would entail.

In reply to Mr. Poster, Mr. Phillips said the com­mittee had carefully considered all communications which had been made to them with respect to dangerous places on the highways, and already they had put up some 150 signal posts, but it was thought that if they became too common but little notice would be taken of them.

The report was adopted.

 

11th May 1907

BROSELEY.

CHURCH ANNIVERSARY.- On Sunday special services were held in the Broseley Congregational Church to celebrate its anniversary, when two able sermons were preached by the Rev. Arthur B. Kinsey, B.A. (of Manchester Baptist College), which were listened to with great attention throughout. The musical por­tion of the services was well rendered by the choir. The anthem in the morning was “The Heavens proclaim Him”, and in the evening, “Sound the trumpet in Zion”. Mr. A. Evans (choirmaster) ably conducted, and Mr. George Tonkiss presided at the organ. There was a good congregation at each service, especially in the evening, when the chapel was crowded, a collection being taken on each occasion in aid of church expenses.

BOYS’ SCHOOL. - Yesterday week the prizes for regular attendance were distributed by the rector, the Rev. G. F. Lamb. Prizes were given to the boys who made 95 per cent. of the possible attendances, and 90 boys attained this limit, and received books as a reward. Illuminated certificates were also given to the boys who made the full attendances for the year. The following boys gained certificates:- Cecil Thomas (who has attended three full years), Thomas Britton, Charles Thomas, James Jones, and William Edwards (who have attended two full years), and Herbert Meredith. Arthur Harris. Ernest Pope, John Gittings, Hubert Pearce, Archie Davis, Albert Garbett, Walter Wase, Harold Gough, Joseph Gallier, Arthur Sneyd, James Britton, George, Chadwick, and Frederick Tay­lor (who have attended one full year). Several other boys have missed their certificates owing to choir excursions or Sunday school treats.

BENEFIT CONCERT.- On Monday evening a very successful concert was given in the Wesleyan Schoolroom for the benefit of an old resident of the town, who has been thrown out of employment. Mr. J. Fellowes (Woodhouse) presided over a large and appreciative audience. There was an excellent programme provided, each item being received with marked ap­proval. Mr. George Tonkiss, Mr. Percy Hartshorne,  Mr. F. Glover, Miss Hartshorne, Mr. W. A. Garbett, Mr. A. O. Jones, and Mr. A. J. Hartshorne contributed to the programme. An able rendering of the cantata, “A Summer Day” was given by the Broseley Congregational Church Choir. Mr. George Tonkiss accompanied.

 

18th May 1907

WENLOCK BOROUGH COUNCIL

WEDNESDAY

Present: - The Mayor (Councillor R. F. Ayre), Alderman D. L. Prestage, A. B. Dyas, J. Davies, W. J. Legge, T. Cooke, F. G. Bed­does, Captain Geo. Forester, Councillors Bishop, Maddox, Boulton, Morris, Hayes, Mil­ner, Keay, Instone, Whittaker, J. Roberts, Griffiths, Webster, W. Roberts, Fletcher, Bryan, Edwards, and Horton, with Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), B Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. J. Symonds (weights and measures inspector), and Dr. Gepp (medical officer).

Dr. Gepp presented his annual report, and referred to the phthisis disease, and referred to the duties of the sanitary authorities.  He referred to the usefulness of sanatoria for the treatment of cases in an early stage if the disease was admitted, and was of opinion that if the borough could be provided with a small sanatorium, containing from six to ten beds, very valuable assistance would be given. The Lady Forester charity had really provided admirable general hospitals at Wenlock and Broseley and a Convalescent Home at Llandudno for the inhabitants of the borough, and he thought if the trustees found it possible to provide and maintain a sanatorium for phthisis, also, in the borough, it would be of the greatest advantage. There was the cura­tive sanatorium and the hospital for the treat­ment of those cases in the last stages of the disease which was dangerous to the public.

The Mayor said he was obliged to Dr. Gepp for his interesting remarks, and hoped that good fruit would be the result.- A vote of thanks was accorded that officer for his re­port, moved by Mr. Davies, and seconded by Captain Forester.

The Clerk reported that a deputation had waited on the County Council Committee concerning the question of the proposed bridge across the Severn as Iron-Bridge.  He had received a communication from the clerk to the effect that the Bridges Committee could not recommend the County Council to contribute towards the erection or maintaining of the county bridges.

 

BROSELEY WOOD.

THE CHILDREN attending Broseley Wood School re­ceived their prizes for regular attendance. Miss Potts, who kindly distributed them, was accompanied by Mrs. Prior, Mrs. Woods, Miss D. Potts, and Miss. Woods. Nine children made full attendances. viz., Florence Gough, Elsie Legge, Hilda Evans, Tom Weekes, Bertie Bangham, Willie Bullock, Gladys Hill, Edward Anthony, and Richard Hood. Fifty-two children made 90 per cent. attendances and obtained prizes. Two extra prizes were given by Miss Potts and Mrs. Prior to Hilda Legge and Doris Lumb for good conduct. In the absence of the Rector, Mr. W. Francis thanked the ladies on behalf of the managers, and briefly impressed upon the children the importance of regular attendance at school.

 

BROSELEY

FOR MEN ONLY.- On Saturday evening a special service was conducted in the Parish Church by the Rev. F. B. Philps, who delivered a practical and interesting address on “Self Respect”. The Rev. W. A. Terry (vicar of Benthall) read the lesson. There was a fair congregation.

SUNDAY CONCERT.- On Sunday afternoon the Jack­field Brass Band gave a concert on the Victoria Institute Bowling Green. The programme consisted of high-class music, and was rendered in fine style under the conductorship of Mr. George Aston, band­master. There was a large number of appreciative listeners.

SUDDEN DEATH.- On Monday Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquest on the body of Eliza Hill, licensee of the Lord Hill Hotel, who expired some­what suddenly.- Harry Hill, son, deposed to finding his mother dead in bed on Saturday morning. His mother had had a bad cough for a long period, but she never had a doctor, and appeared to be better than usual on the Friday. - Elizabeth Hill, daughter, said her mother was 53 years of age. When she went to bed on the Friday night, she appeared in her usual health. She had been taking medicine for her breath.- Elizabeth Margaret Lloyd said that deceased had complained of shortness of breath, and witness believed she was troubled with her heart.-The jury returned a verdict of “Death from natural causes”

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH. - On Sunday special services were held in this church, the officiating clergyman being the Rev. F. B. Philps (diocesan missioner), who delivered two eloquent sermons. The lessons were read by Mr. H. H. Clark. There were good congregations, and the rev. gentleman, in appealing for large offer­tories to clear off a deficit of about £28, said that Broseley ought to consider itself fortunate in having so fine a Parish Church wherein to worship, and in only one other Parish Church that he had visited in the diocese of Hereford was the service so reverently and musically rendered. The anthems were, “Lift up your heads” (Handel) and the “Hallelujah Chorus” (“Messiah”), under the leadership of Mr. W. H. Griffiths, Miss Watkiss (L. R. A. M.) being at the organ. The offertories exceeded £10.

SALOPIANS IN AMERICA.- The marriage of Mr. Arthur John Preston (eldest son of Mr. George Preston of High Street, Broseley) and Miss Ethel Emley Rushton (eldest daughter of Mr. H. J. Rushton, also of High Street, Broseley) was celebrated at St. George’s Church, Stuyvesant Square, East 16th Street, New York, U.S.A., on the 25th ult. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Thomas Bond-Holland. The bride, who looked charming in her travelling costume of navy blue, with hat to match, was married immediately upon her landing at New York. There were no bridesmaids, and the bridegroom was the best man in a double sense. It will be remembered that prior to leaving his native town of Broseley in December last for America Mr. A. J. Preston was the recipient of a number of valuable presents from the employees at Messrs. Maw and Co.'s works, Jackfield (where he had been employed as draughtsman, &c., for several years); also the members of Broseley Cricket and Football Clubs, Broseley Church Choir, Victoria Institute Swimming Club and friends, testifying to the respect in which he was held by them all, and on this interesting occasion they renew their congratulations by wishing them both every happiness and prosperity.

 

IRONBRIDGE

PETTY SESSIONS.-TUESDAY.

Before Councillor R. F. Ayre (mayor), Captain G. Forester, Dr. G. O. Collins, Messrs. A. B. Dyes, F. G. Beddoes, W. J. Legge, and W. Roberts.

STEALING AN UMBRELLA.- Mary Garbett, wife of Isaac Garbett, miner, Madeley, was charged with stealing an umbrella, value 10s. 6d., the property of Charlotte Ellis, single woman, Jackfield.- Ellis stated that she paid a visit to her sister, Mrs. Perks, and left the umbrella outside the house. A few minutes later she found that the umbrella had disappeared. - James Perks, cooper, Jackfield, stated that he saw the defendant coming from the direction of his house.­ W. H. Harper, setter, Jackfield, said he met Garbett by the Jackfield Crossing, when she told him she was trying to sell the umbrella produced for 1s. He gave her 1s. 6d., took her to a public-house, and paid for a drink for her. He bought it because she was hard up. -Defendant pleaded not guilty, stating that she gave two boys 1d. each for the umbrella. Harper did not give her anything.- Garbett was bound over under the First Offenders Act to be of good behaviour for 12 months.

 

BANKRUPTCY EXAMINATIONS.

WARRANT FOR ABSENT  DEBTOR
AT MADELEY.

A Bankruptcy Court was held before Mr. Registrar Potts, at Madeley County Court Office, on Wednesday.

A receiving order was made against Ambrose Hancock, formerly of Hodge Bower, Iron-Bridge, and also of the Lion Hotel, Broseley, on the petition of Messrs. G. J. Holt and Sons of Shrewsbury. The petition was dated the 1st of May, but since then debtor's address could not be traced, and his whereabouts were still unknown on Wednesday.-The examination was fixed for the 12th June.

 

 

JACKFIELD.

A SACRED CONCERT was given on Sunday afternoon; by the local prize band, when the programme in­cluded the Shropshire Championship test piece, “Gems of Song”. A collection was taken for the band's contesting expenses.

WEDDING.- On Monday a marriage was celebrated at St. Mary's Church, the contracting parties being Mr. Thos. William Poole, fifth son of Mr. Frank Poole of Jackfield, and Miss Ada Cleobury, third daughter of Mr. Thomas Cleobury, also of Jackfield. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, rector, the service being choral. The bride, who looked exceedingly well in a slate ­coloured dress, with white hat trimmed with orange blossoms, was given away by her father. The bridesmaids - Misses May and Lily Harrison (cousins of the bride) - were prettily attired in white silk dresses, with hats to match, Mr. Edward Poole (brother of the bridegroom) acted as “best man”. Mrs. Edwards (wife of the rector) presided at the organ, and, during the signing of the regis­ter, played with great taste the voluntary, “But the Lord is mindful of His own”. At the conclusion of the ceremony, the wedding party, which consisted of a consider­able number of relatives and well-wishers of both bride and bridegroom, adjourned to the residence of the bride’s parents, where an excellent spread awaited them. The presents were numerous, useful, and valuable.

 

1st June 1907

IRONBRIDGE

RE AMBROSE HANCOCK.- A meeting of the creditors of the debtor, who recently carried on business at the Crown Inn, Hodge Bower, Iron-bridge, and the Lion Hotel, Broseley, was convened for Wednesday, at the office of the official receiver, Shrewsbury. Appended to the notice issued to creditors by the Official Receiver was the following:- “The receiving order has been made upon the petition of creditors, the act of bankruptcy being that the debtor had, with intent to defeat or delay his creditors, departed from his dwelling-house, or otherwise absented Himself. He did not appear to the petition, and his whereabouts has not yet been ascertained. Under the circumstances a statement of affairs has not been lodged”.

The official receiver remains trustee.

 

BROSELEY

PRESENTATION.- On Tuesday an interesting ceremony took place at Broseley Post Office, when Mr. Edward Hartshorne was presented with an Imperial Service Medal, on his retirement from the post of rural postman, after 33 years’ service.

FIRE BRIGADE.- A meeting of this brigade was recently held, under the presidency of Mr. George Potts when there were also present:- Messrs. W. Francis, H, Hughes, Geo S. Williams, A. Taylor (Captain), and W, Edge, junr, (hon. Secretary). It was reported that through the kindness of Lord Forester, a manual fire engine has been provided for the use of the Broseley, Jackfield, and District Fire Brigade, and as this will be a great boon to the farmers, &c., outside the area served by the local water supply, it was decided to appeal to them for financial support towards the cost of putting the engine in thorough working order and the upkeep of the brigade generally.- It was resolved that a letter of condolence be sent to the widow of the late Samuel Davies, who was a most respected member of the committee.

 

8th June 1907

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL,

WEDNESDAY.

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

Mr. Herbert reported a number of nuisances, and the usual orders were made. - Mr. Keay said he was of opinion that they should not be too hard on the owners of property.- The Chairman replied that houses must be kept in a proper sanitary condi­tion.- Mr. Keay said he had heard that when brick­layers were short of a job, they wrote the inspector concerning the condition of the houses, which he considered was not right. He knew a person who sold his house for £15 rather than spend too much on repairs.- The Inspector said he had not received any letter from any bricklayers to his knowledge.

Mr. Abberley reported that be had examined the water mains, and found them all in good order. He also reported that the Posenhall recorder was in good working order, and that the hospital meter was working all right.

The Clerk reported that the balance in hand on the general district rate account was £93, and a balance on the wrong side of the water account to the amount of £133 14s. 4d.- The Chairman : £40 on the wrong side on both accounts.-Mr. Doughty maintained that if all paid their rates within a month there would be no overdraft, and thus bank charges would be saved. He did not see why some persons should finance the concern for the benefit of the whole district.- The Chairman suggested that the councillors should pay their rates first. (Laughter.)- Mr. Nicklin was of opinion they could do nothing better than leave the matter in the hands of the collector. He did not think they could establish any hard and fast rule. He generally paid his rate when pressed. (Laughter.)- Mr. Griffiths said he thought it would be a good thing if all the ratepayers could sit on the Council.- Mr. Keay: I should like to see all the householders pay the rates direct.- Mr. Doughty : And so should I.- Here the, matter dropped.

The Surveyor reported that his expenses for the month amounted to £10 11s.

 

15th June 1907

RE-AFFFORESTATION IN SALOP

The leafy month of June, when every tree and shrub has donned its summer garb of liv­ing green, and when every wood and copse is a mass of foliage, seems a fitting time for taking stock of what has been done in planting waste places and re-claiming tracts of land from ugliness and desolation to beauty and useful­ness.

It is said to be the custom in Norway and in Canada-two countries where thousands of trees are felled and exported annually for the school children, on a special day in the year, to turn out and each to plant a tree to help to supply the places of those cut down. Some such plan might with advantage be pur­sued in England, where de-forestation has been proceeding apace for many years. Before the coal-mining period our forests were stripped for the manufacture of charcoal; a century ago our groves of sturdy oaks were used for the King’s Navy; and during the last 50 years coal-mining operations have wrought such havoc that the smiling country­side has been denuded of its chief beauty, and has, in many places, been transformed into a veritable wilderness. Here, in our own beau­tiful county, it is very apparent that though something in the direction of re-afforestation has been accomplished, a great deal remains to be done. A half-hour’s walk in any of the Shropshire mining districts will amply demonstrate this. In the majority of cases the numerous disused pit-mounds are hideous in their naked ugliness. No attempts have been made to soften their harsh outlines by plan­tations of shrubs or trees, or to clothe their barren slopes with any sort of vegetation. Their slaty-coloured wastes. surmounted by ruined masonry and blackened and decaying timbers, present pictures of dreary desolation, and are veritable blotches on the landscape, and tracts of land, amounting in the aggregate to thou-sands of acres, are thus abandoned to uselessness and unloveliness.

But here and there a very different sight appears. Note the hill, with its slopes beautified by plantations of slender birch saplings, its crest crowned with groves of graceful furs. In the glades may he found trees rooted in it “waste” soil; climb to the summit of the hill, and you may discover the old bricked-up pit shafts. Yet, far from being the unlovely blot its fellows are, this pit-mound is an enhancement of the beauties of the landscape, and its soil, redeemed from sterility, supports and nourishes valuable timber.

Unfortunately, these reclaimed pit-mounds form the exception rather than the rule, but it is encouraging to note that the short-sightedness of abandoning these places to useless barrenness is now recognised, and great advances are being made in re-afforestation.

In North Shropshire the Rev. J. R. Lloyd of Aston, near Oswestry, in the year 1796 planted 60,000 oaks, for which the Society for the Encouragement of Arts awarded him their gold medal. Nor did his activity in tree-planting end here, for during the next five years (1796-1802) he planted 9,932 oaks, 3,354 beeches, 3,342 elms, 3,810 firs, besides poplars, sycamores, and willows.

It is related of the famous Admiral Collingwood, the contemporary and comrade of Nelson, that he was so alarmed at the rapid destruction of our forests, and so impressed with the importance of maintaining “Old England’s Wooden Walls”, that he rarely took a walk in the country without a bag of acorns which he used to plant in suitable spots.

Few now-a-days plant oaks to this extent; they take so long to grow. The old saying is that an oak takes 300 years to grow, 300 years it remains in maturity, and 300 years it takes to die. The famous old Cressage Oak, the sole surviving monarch of the Long Forest, must, if tradition speaks truly, have exceeded even that length of life. Of the extensive forests that once covered the greater part of the county but few relics remain. There are some fine old trees near Willey- a patriarchal ash stands in the public road at Barrow, and a great oak, which the late Lord George Forester, uncle of the present owner of Willey, took great care to preserve, still flourishes near the Dean. There are other noble trees at Shipton and Larden, one at the latter place being a fine beech whose branches spread to a circumference of 35 yards. A magnificent oak, recently cut down in Corve Dale, contained 300 cubic feet of timber, and was 18 feet in circumference. This, however, is but a sapling compared with that king of forest trees described by Louden, the great landscape gardener of the last century, as having been felled in Willey Park. It spread 114 feet, and had a trunk 9ft. in diameter, exclusive of bark. It contained 24 cords of yard wood, 11½  cords of four-feet wood, 252 park palings (6ft. long), one load of cooper’s wood, making a total of 441 tons of timber, besides faggots and boughs that had dropped off. “What tales, if there be tongues in trees, these giant oaks could tell”. But with the exception of these trees, and the names of places such as Deer Leap, or the remains of some old hunting-lodge, nothing is left to testify that here had been a noble forest, where the Priors of Wenlock once kept their deer.

On Shirlet and in its neighbourhood defores­tation has taken place to a great extent. The numerous forges and smithies that once flour­ished in the locality drew their charcoal sup­plies from the remains of the ancient forest, and the mining operations along the summit of the hill eventually completed the work of destruction.

The second Baron Lord Forester did a great deal of planting on the Willey Estate. Per­haps the best bit of tree-planting was that done by his agent, Mr. William Thursfield, who levelled and planted the old pit-mounds from which the famous John Wilkinson drew minerals for forging the plates of the first iron vessel ever launched. Over these mounds was made the drive from the new lodge in the Broseley and Bridgnorth road to the modern mansion of Willey. The trees planted on either side have grown luxuriantly, and pre­sent features of great sylvan beauty.

Between this lodge and the newly-completed Lady Forester Hospital planting has been con­tinued, and the old mounds at Rowton and Caughley have been so transformed that, ad­ded to the area over which the far-famed Tom Moody led his hounds, they now form part of the district hunted by the Wheatland Pack, of which Mr. Rowland Hunt, M.P., is Master.

But few better examples of useful and ju­dicious tree-planting can be found than at Wenlock. Here, owing to the initiative of the late Dr. W. P. Brookes, a noble pleasure­ ground, encircled and beautified by groves of stately trees, has been evolved from the sterile soil that but thinly covers the limestone. It is known as the Linden Field, and the open space between the trees forms the arena in which the Olympian Games are annually held. The trees planted were chosen for their suit­ability to the climate, and have flourished amazingly; many are of rare species; one a noble Wellingtonia, was planted by the in­habitants of the borough in honour of Dr. Brookes, whose public spirit and large-heartedness they thus recognised during his life­time. An avenue of limes, called the Linden Walk, leading to the Field, is especially note­worthy, and is doubtless now in its full glory.

Mention must be also made of the trees plan­ted by Mr. Gaskell on his estate on the oppo­site side of the public road loading to Farley Dingle, which arid greatly to the beauty of the grounds adjoining the Lady Forester Hospi­tal. Lady Gaskell, too, is a lover of woodland scenery and has published interesting description of her rambles in the greenwood in search of plants and lichens.

(Part 2 26th June 1907)

When the Druids performed their divinations on the Brown Clee, holding the oak and mistletoe as sacred, the officiating priest being crowned with a chaplet of oak leaves and mistletoe, there mast have been, one would imagine, a pretty dense forest in which they performed their mysteries, but of that primitive forest not a trace remains. It is seldom that our great historian, Mr. Eyton, makes a mistake in describing it as a wood. There are plenty of Druidical circles composed of stones, but no trees excepting those forming the wooded belt round the base of the hill.

At Burwarton, not far from the foot of the Clee Hill, the late Lord Boyne did some good planting in the direction of the Woodlands.

Before Mr. Hubert Smith-Stanrer left St. Leonard’s, Bridgnorth, he planted 60,000 trees of various kinds on his estate of St. James’s. The planting took place chiefly in Spring Valley and on the wastes that skirt the remains of Morfe Forest, which was of considerable extent down to comparatively recent times, and is even now rich in historic lore and old-world tradition. The archaeologist may yet discover within its bounds traces of Briton, Roman, Saxon, and Norman. So late as the year 1808 the forest consisted of upwards of 3,820 acres. When Mr. John Pritchard retired from the representation of Bridgnorth, and built Stanmore Grove, he and his neighbour, Mr. John Gitton, planted extensively at Bowman’s Hill, a district once forming part of the Old Forest.

The late Mr. Thomas Charlton Whitmore did a good deal of planting, as well as felling timber, on the Apley Estate, and spent a small fortune in defending Rookery Wood and Chestnut Coppice from the encroachments of the Severn Valley Railway.

It may not be irrelevant to draw attention here to that splendid stretch of woodland that continues past the Wren's Nest to Tyche, or more vulgarly Tick Wood, and on to West Coppice, Shyne Wood, Bannister's Coppice, and Belswardine Wood. This noble belt of timber affords as rare a type of sylvan beauty as may be found in the county, and compels a feeling of regret at the devastation wrought elsewhere. We can ill afford to lose our woods which add so greatly to the beauties of the landscape, and thrive on land often too sterile for tillage or pasture

Some judicious planting has been done by Mr. Kynnersley at Leighton on the left bank of the Severn, and on the sides of the hill leading to the Wrekin and the Ercall Woods. It is, however, regrettable to find one landowner planting on the river meads where the white-habited monks of Buildwas once pastured their sheep and tilled the soil. When fully grown, these trees will shut out the view of the Abbey from the river, and many a humble fisherman enjoying a day's brief sport will return to his unlovely home in the Black Country or great manufacturing town unconscious of having passed the day within easy reach of a beautiful and historical relic.

In the neighbourhood of the Wrekin there are still some fine old trees, but what has become of the former forest? Some of its timbers may still be found in the massive beams of the quaint old black and white houses which are scattered throughout the district, and in the panelling of the old hunting lodge at Arleston, where Henry II. lodged and bartered a piece of land for Lady Seburga de Hadley’s swept cake, and, probably, her sweeter smile.

Great and wanton destruction of timber, dating from the 14th to the 18th centuries, took place in this part of the county, One reads, for instance, of 300 oaks being felled for the ignoble purpose of burning lime. Sir William Forester of Dothill, a courtier in the reign of Queen Anne, cut down so many trees to pay his debts that the Wrekin is said to have been left as bare as the Caradoc. Thanks, however, to the Lords Forester and Darlington and to Mr. Cludde, this is no longer the case, and the Wrekin's slopes are once again thickly covered with trees.

Another part of the forest that has entirely disappeared is that which once flourished in the neighbourhood of Madeley, and where, as is set forth in ancient records still extant, King Edward I. in 1283 gave permission to the Prior of Wenlock to form a haia for deer. The same monarch granted to Richard de Castillion, the sporting parson of Madeley, rights of hunting in the great park whose once considerable extent can now only be guessed at, and whose last traces survive in such names as Park Street, Park Lane, and Rough Park, and in the curious old lodge at Hedgbower, with its stone tower and peculiar circular staircase.

When Richard Reynolds, the well-known ironmaster of Ketley and Coalbrookdale, purchased the manor, with its rights and privileges, from Mr. Smytheman of West Coppice, he did some good planting, notably the Dale Walks from the Rotunda to the Temple and some distance beyond, at Sunnyside on the opposite side of the valley, and also along the valley of Lightmoor.

The late Mr. W. O. Foster twenty years ago, by his agent, Mr. C. W. Pearce, planted two pairs of disused pit-mounds on his Madeley Court Estate with spruce, larch, birch, English and Spanish chestnut, and other trees. The success of this experiment has been complete; the plantations have flourished exceedingly, and form a great scenic improvement to the estate.

Mr. Pearce is now continuing the experiment, and this present season has planted 25,000 young trees, comprising Scotch fir, larch, birch, alder, English and Spanish chestnut and oak. Is it too much to hope that others will follow the example set by Mr. Foster? There are a thousand acres of barren pit-mounds in Dawley parish alone, every square yard of which has contributed in the form of royalty to the princely income of the Craven family. May not the present Earl therefore be asked, without offence, to clothe with a garb of green these unsightly wastes?

Returning to Madeley parish, one may point out to the Poor-Law Guardians that a barren mound, which has not been used for mining purposes for at least three-parts of a century, lies at the very door of the Union Workhouse, and would it not be feasible for the able-bodied inmates to be employed either in planting it with trees or reclaiming it for the production of vegetables?

Before bringing this article to a close, one other instance - that of the Meadow Pit mound - may be mentioned.  This is by far the highest ground in Madeley parish, being from four to five hundred feet above the sea level, and commands views of the Abberley and Malvern Hills on the other side and of the Breidden and Welsh Hills on the other.  Its altitude has been turned to good account by the construction of a noble reservoir on its summit, which by gravitation, supplies the country round with water. There is here plenty of space for an extensive plantation, and if such were made scientifically and from a plan drawn up by a landscape gardener, a charming pleasure resort for the inhabitants of Iron-Bridge and Madeley might well result.  Here there is scope for the judicious expenditure of part of the six hundred and forty pounds placed at the disposal of the Town Council by Mr Josephs Haynes of America, but formerly of Madeley. In any of these cases mentioned, the initial cost of tree planting would be repaid in the course of twenty-five years.  Mr. Pearce, for instance, in the thinning the plantations on the Court Estate, has cut down twenty tons of timber for which he has found a ready market as pit-props in the Black Country. It has been objected that trees will not grow on such sterile mounds, but Mr. Newbrook, nursery gardener, of Madeley overcame that difficulty by digging a hole for each tree and putting in two spadefulls of soil to give the roots a start, leaving the rest to nature and to the manures afforded by each year’s fallen leaves.

JOHN RANDALL.

 

MADELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL. .

WEDNESDAY.

Present :-Aldermen A B. Dyas (chairman) and F. G. Beddoes Councillors B. Maddox, W. Roberts, T. G. Whittaker, J. D. Benbow, J. H. Webster, E. Fletcher also W. G. Dyas, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), G.  Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), and Arthur Callear (water inspector and collector).

MILKSELLERS WARNED.- Mr. Herbert said he wished to draw their attention to the Dairy, Cowsheds, and Milksellers Order. One of the provisions was that all persons carrying on the trade of milksellers should be registered. He had sent out several notices, and had only received one application. The penalty for failing to register was £5. He hoped they would con­sider the matter at the next meeting.- The inspector was instructed to issue notices to all milksellers, &c.

PROPOSED FREE BRIDGE.- Mr. Maddox moved that the County Council having declined to make a grant towards the proposed free footbridge over the river, the Haynes legacy, which was set aside provisionally, be now set aside permanently for the purpose of creating a fund to erect the said bridge, and that an appeal be made to the Borough Council for a grant towards such bridge. He said that public opinion would be taken in the matter that night, and if agreed with, he thought the end of the business would be reached, and the object in view realised, viz., a footbridge over the river free and safe for passengers who used that approach day by day. It would also remove a burden from the workers in the district. Upwards of 700 workers crossed the Severn, besides children and other persons. An opportunity, he added, had now presented itself whereby they might remove what in his opinion was all antiquated system. It was out of date and should be superseded by something that was safer for passengers. Some were in favour of this legacy being brought into the common fund, and thus sink into oblivion.- Mr. Benbow seconded the motion.- The Chairman here read the following letter from Alderman Legge:- “I hope Mr. Maddox’s motion will receive very serious consideration from the representatives of the ratepayers, as it in involves setting aside the whole of the amount of the legacy, viz., £700, and not a part of it. I should like to suggest, if we are so charitably inclined, that a portion of this legacy should be dealt with by the Board of Guardians, to relieve the wants of the numerous applications from the struggling workmen, and more will follow if they remain in the district, owing to the great depression of trade, especially in the clay in­dustry. This would relieve the applicants and the rate­payers as well.

 

15th June 1907

TO CROSS THE SEVERN.

PROPOSED NEW FOOTBRIDGE
AT IRON­-BRIDGE.

It would appear that the inhabitants of Iron-­Bridge and district are now within measuring distance of a very useful improvement, one which they have for years desired, and which now really appears to be within their reach.

A public meeting, which was of an enthusias­tic character, was held at the Market Hall there on Wednesday, convened for the purpose of considering what steps should be taken in support of the proposed free footbridge over the River Severn at Iron-Bridge. Councillor R. F. Ayre (the mayor) presided, and was sup­ported by the Rev. W. Hamlyn (rector), Messrs. B. Maddox. F. G. Beddoes, T. D. Thomas, G. Keay, W. Roberts, J. D. Benbow, J. H.  Webster, T. I. Griffiths. J. Nicklin, and T. G. Whittaker.

The Mayor, having expressed his pleasure at so large an attendance, said there were five ways in the borough of crossing the river, for which they had to pay a toll. It had been so for the last century, but he saw no reason why it should remain so. There had always been an agitation to get a free bridge. About two years ago, a gentleman named Haynes had died abroad, and left £1,100 for the Iron­-Bridge Dispensary to help his poorer brethren, and after that he left a further sum of £600 odd to the Authority of his native Town, Iron-­Bridge. The matter had been discussed at the Local Authority meeting, and, whilst some were in favour of its going towards relieving the rates, others thought it should go towards some memorial whereby the donor’s name could be kept green, and also to be an example for others to follow. (Applause.) The County Council  were approached, but declined to as­sist them in contributing towards a free bridge; therefore they would have to do what they could themselves. A free bridge was greatly needed, and he thought they all de­sired the proposed bridge, which would be an excellent way of remembering Mr. Haynes, and what he had done for the place. (Applause.) It remained with them that night to decide what steps they should take.

Mr. F. G. Beddoes moved the following resolution:- “That this meeting heartily approves of the action of the Madeley District Council in the setting aside of the Haynes legacy to create a fund towards the erecting of the proposed free footbridge over the river, and considers the time has now come when an appeal should be made to the public for the remainder of the money required to complete the cost of erection”. He thought the majority were in favour of the resolution, and those who were against it, he was of opinion, were afraid of putting their hands in their pockets. (Hear. hear.) He did not think it was the proper way to put this money, which was left to them, in the borough coffers for the purpose of easing the rates, which would only be for one year. He was strongly of opinion that they should do something that would hand down the donor’s name for all time as a man who thought well of the town of his birth. (Ap­plause.) The District Council that day had decided that it should be put aside for the pur­pose of erecting a free footbridge. It was not carried unanimously; of course, they did not expect it. It was for them to decide if they would have the free bridge across the Severn, and as it was for the benefit of the working men no doubt they would help to contribute to­wards the cost. (Applause.)

Mr. W. Roberts, in seconding the motion, said the meeting that day was a red-letter one in the history of Iron-Bridge. He rejoiced to think that the action taken by the Council in setting aside the legacy towards this desirable object would commend itself to them because it would make an excellent start in providing a free and safe passage across the River Severn. (Applause.) He considered it was the thin end of the wedge in freeing the old iron bridge. (Applause.)

Mr. Nicklin having said a few words in sup­port of the motion, Mr. B. Maddox remarked that they had agitated for years to seek ways and means where­by it would be possible to cross the river with­out paying a toll, and be assured the passage was safe. They had appealed to those above them, who would not help them, and a member for that division sat in the assembly they ap­pealed to who said not one word about their case. It was computed that they could erect a bridge for £1,000, and the legacy left them was £660.  He asked them to do their best and contribute their mite, and then the time would not be far distant when they would have their bridge.

The motion was carried unanimously.

Mr. T. D. Thomas then moved that a com­mittee, consisting of the Mayor (Councillor R. F. Ayre), Aldermen Beddoes, Prestage, Coun­cillors Geo. Forester, Roberts, Maddox, Webster, Benbow, Whittaker, Nicklin, Doughty, Instone, Keay, and J. White, be appointed, with power to add to their number, to arrange a practical scheme for erecting a free foot­bridge over the river, and to take the neces­sary steps to carry the same to completion

Mr. O. Franks seconded the motion, which was also carried unanimously.

 

22nd June 1907

Letters to the Editor

JACKFIELD FREE BRIDGE,

Sir,- In reference to the report in your issue of last week concerning the free bridge at Jackfield, at which meeting of the inhabitants it was proposed to utilise the “Haynes” bequest towards the proposed erecting of a free bridge, I wish to state that the legacy was bequeathed with the direct intention of benefiting Iron­-Bridge and not Jackfield.                                 T. H. HAYNES

Iron-Bridge.

 

JACKFIELD.

PRESENTATIONS.- On Wednesday an interesting event took place at Messrs. Maw and Co.’s, Jackfield, the occasion being the presentation of a photographic group in oak frame of the general office staff to Mr. F. Holland, on his leaving to take up an appoint­ment in Lancashire. Mr. P. Scott, in an appropriate speech, made, the presentation, which was suitably acknowledged by Mr. Holland.- Mr. J. A. Wadsworth, who is also resigning his position as secretary of the company, was made the recipient of a similar gift privately.

 

 

BROSELEY.

THE ANNIVERSARY of the Wesleyan Sunday School took place on Sunday, and was a great success. The congregations were large, the chapel being crowded in the evening. Two impressive sermons were preached that in the morning by the Rev. John Higgett of Handsworth College, and that in the evening by the Rev. Colin Roberts of Madeley. Special hymns were well rendered by the children and choir, under the direction of Mr. E. R. Hartshorne The afternoon was devoted to music, at which service the (Rev, J. Cade (circuit minister) delivered an appropriate address. Special hymns were admirably rendered by the children and choir. On Monday evening another musical service was held, when the children and choir again sang a number of hymns, and the Rev. C. Roberts gave an interesting address. The recitation, “Lead us not into temptation”, was very creditably, given by Miss L. Jones (Chapel House), and the '”The Holy City”, was sung in excellent style by Mr. H. Bartham (Iron-Bridge), who also gave a highly-appreciated rendition of the solo, “For ever with the Lord”. Miss Cook of Madeley also sang very, effectively the solo, “The Great Eternal Home” and '”I know that my Redeemer liveth”. Mr. Arthur. Callear of Iron-Bridge sang “The garden of rife”, with his usual excellent  taste and ability. Miss Hartshorne (The Lea) recited “A little Pilgrim” with much pathos and feeling. A collection was taken at each service in aid of the school funds, which (with donations) amounted to £14.

DEATH OF MR N. T. HARTSHORNE.-Early on Monday, morning there passed away at the Lady Forester Hos­pital, Broseley, Mr. Nathaniel Thomas Hartshorne, who underwent an operation on the previous Friday. Deceased, who was 67 years of age, had been a mem­ber of Court “Rose of the Green”, No. 3353, Ancient Order of Foresters, held at Broseley, for 29 years, and had been secretary of the Broseley and Iron-Bridge district over 25 years. He had also been secretary of Court “Pride of the Village”, No. 4965, held at Nordley, for 15 years, and had occupied the position of registration agent for the Unionist party in the Broseley polling district for a number of years. Much sympathy is felt for the bereaved widow and family. On Thursday the remains of deceased were laid to rest in the cemetery. The Rev. G. Fleming Lamb, rector, was the officiating clergyman. There were a good number of friends present to witness the solemn obsequies, Forestry being strongly represented. There was a large contingent from Court “Rose of the Green"” held at Broseley, of which the deceased was a member up to the time of his death; Court “Royal George” (Iron-Bridge) was represented by, Messrs. John Barker and William Morgan; Court “Iron Duke” (Coalport.), by Mr. Clement Fennell; “Pride of the Village” (Nordley), by Mr. William Ed­wards; and “Sabrina” (Highley), by Mr. G. Hammond. Blinds were drawn and shutters put up at several of the houses and shops en route to the cemetery. The address prescribed by the, Order of Foresters was then impressively read at the graveside by Councillor J. Nicklin. A number of beautiful wreaths were sent by sorrowing relatives and friends.

 

29th June 1907

Letters to the Editor

THE NEW BRIDGE AT
 IRON-BRIDGE.

Sir,- A person writing on the question of the Haynes legacy, and signing himself “T. H. Haynes”, in your last issue, would do well to establish his identity by giving his full address. Some time ago an individual fancy he is the same T. H. Haynes - wrote in your columns, and gave his residence at Jackfield. I have made careful inquiries and cannot find any such person living in the township of Iron-Bridge. It would certainly be interesting to know why “T. H. Haynes” did not attend the public meeting in the Market Hall on the 12th inst. and state his objections. An ample opportunity was given him to do so, but to write to the Press in a false name, so as to lead your readers to think that he was in some way connected with the gentleman who left the legacy of £649 to the Munici­pality of the town of his birth, is to act in a manner most unworthy, and deserves the exposure which I feel it my duty to give.         B. MADDOX.

Iron-Bridge.

[The letter of which Mr. Maddox complains bore every evidence of authenticity, of the usual character, and it seems difficult to believe it to have been a hoax; still, Mr. Maddox's inquiries seem to lead to that suspicion, and if it prove correct we can but of coarse regret that (notwithstanding the precaution we invariably observe) we should have been so mis­led into publishing a letter with a signature purporting to be genuine, but in reality of no more “account” than a “nom-de-guerre”.-Ed.]

 

BROSELEY.

MUSICAL Successes.- At the recent examination held in connection with the International Union of Musicians, the following candidates successfully passed and secured certificates:- Violin, Miss Sarah Rawlings, Much Wenlock; piano (intermediate, grade), Miss Emily Firmstone, Much Wenlock; violin (interme­diate grade), William Hill, Jackfield; and violoncello (higher grade), Thomas Griffiths, Iron-Bridge, who passed with honours.

WEDDING.- On Monday a pretty wedding was cele­brated in the Parish Church, the contracting parties being Miss Sarah Elizabeth Rowe (younger daughter of Mr. John Rowe, Broseley) and Mr. William Arthur Lloyd (son of Mr. William Lloyd, Bridgnorth). The ceremony was performed by the Rev. G. Fleming Lamb (rector). The bride, who looked charming in a cream dress, with hat to match, was escorted up the nave by her brother-in-law (Mr. R. Jones), who gave her away. The bridesmaids- Misses Nellie Lewis (cousin) and Florence Cox - looked exceedingly pretty in dresses of cream delaine, with hats to match. Mr. J. Dixon (brother-in-law) acted as best man. At the conclusion of the ceremony the wedding party proceeded to the residence of the bride’s father, where a substantial re­past awaited them. Afterwards the newly-married pair amidst the congratulations of their friends left for Iron-Bridge Station, en route to Rhyl, where the honeymoon is being spent. The bride’s travelling­costume was plum colour, with cream hat and trim­ming to match dress. During the evening a number of friends were entertained by the bride’s father, and every good wish was expressed for the bride and bridegroom.

 

IRON- BRIDGE

PETTY SESSIONS - Tuesday

A SERIOUS CHARGE DISMISSED. - James Hill, Jackfield, was brought up on remand, charged with stealing 32 decorative tiles, value 8s., the property of Messrs. Maw & Co., tile manufacturers, Jackfield. Mr. H. R. Phillips prosecuted, and Mr. J. T. Carrane defended. - Thos. Minton, warehouseman, in the employ of Messrs. Maw & Co., stated that on the 12th of June he had occasion to go down to one of the ware­houses, and saw 62 decorative tiles stacked-a special order. He examined them the next morning, and found 32 missing. He knew the tiles produced, and identified them by the number at the back.- Samuel Evans, railway checker, in the employ of the G.W.R. Company, stated that he worked at Messrs. Maw’s siding. He went off duty at 7-40 in the evening, and rode home, on the locomotive to Iron-Bridge Station. As he was going home he saw the defendant at his post at the Jackfield Crossing, which he kept. He gave the signal to him that all was right. - Police-constable Reeves deposed that he saw Hill coming up the line, going in the direction of his home. He was carrying something. Witness went on the line and met defendant, but he was not carrying any­thing then. He proceeded down the line to Maw’s siding box where he had seen Hill, and saw the tiles in a bag laid down, with grass thrown over them. He went on the line and whistled to the defendant, who turned round and looked at him and went on again. The officer whistled him again, shouted, and waved his hand. He stopped, and witness said, “What are you doing with those tiles, Jim”? “I’ve not had any tiles”, he replied. “What were you carrying when you saw me, and turned back”?  the officer asked, to which Hill replied, “A bag”. The witness then said “Come back to the box, and show me where it is”. He replied, “No, I am not coming back, I have nothing to come for. I have not had any tiles” Defendant eventually came back, and the witness, asked him to show him the, bag, but he did not. Witness then reached the tiles down off the bank, and said, “These are what you were carrying, and I shall charge you with stealing them from the works”. Hill replied, “No, for God’s sake don't do it. Let me take them and put them back in the works, and no one will know anything about it”. Witness had the tiles in his hand at the time. Defendant said, “I have not, stolen them. I was going down the line to the Duke for a pint, and saw them lying by the box, I thought they were put out there for an engine driver named Tom, as he was talking to me about a week or nine days ago, and told me that a party from Maw’s was going to get him a few tiles, and he asked me to look after them for him, and I thought those were for him, and I would take then up home”. The officer took defendant to the Iron-­Bridge lock-up.- Inspector Jones also gave evidence.- Joseph Nicklin, managing director for Messrs. Maw & Co., valued the tiles at 8s. Mr. Carrane contended there was no case made out. Defendant was 59 years old, and had been in the company's, service 33.- Defendant, who pleaded not guilty, said he had never stolen a tile from Messrs. Maw's & Co. When he had seen the tiles in question, he moved them in order to play someone a trick. He had no intention of steal­ing them.- Testimonials as to defendant’s good charac­ter were here handed in.-Mr. Carrane asked the Bench to give defendant the benefit of the doubt.-The case was dismissed on payment of costs.

 

 

 

6th July 1907

BROSELEY MAN'S
EXTRAORDINARY CAREER

A strange story of the chequered life of a Shrop­shire man was told at the Staffordshire Quarter Ses­sions on Wednesday, when the trial took place of one Sidney John Charlesworth, who was regarded as the chief mover in the robbery of a safe, containing docu­ments of great value, from Larnmascote House, Staf­ford, on May 2nd last. Though he had only been in Stafford about eighteen months, the prisoner had become exceptionally well known, and considerable interest was, therefore, attached to his trial. Two other men, James Alfred Sammons, Marsh Street, and Frederick James Crewe, Wright Street, were charged with being concerned in the burglary; but at the trial these men were given good characters prior to the time, and were, therefore, put upon their good behaviour.

Inspector Tucker said the prisoner had had a re­markable career. He was born in 1876, at Broseley, Salop, and was the son of John Charlesworth, a pensioned constable of the Shropshire force. On November 22nd, 1893, he was charged at Market Dray­ton with theft, and subsequently he enlisted twice into the Shropshire Light Infantry, and was dis­charged the last time through defective eyesight and hearing. At this period he was also said to be a lazy, worthless character, and a constant associate of thieves and poachers. In November, 1894, he joined the royal Artillery, and in May, 1896, was drafted out to South Africa, but had been there only a short time before being invalided home, and discharged through Netley Hospital in September, 1896, as subject to epileptic fits. His character was then marked “good”. In October, 1896, he tried to get into the Cheshire Constabulary, but failed on account of his character. He joined the Staffordshire Constabulary, however, in February, 1897, on forged testimonials, and was dismissed next month for un­truthfulness, having been found to have altered his army parchment certificate from Royal Artillery to Royal Horse Artillery. In July, 1897, he joined the Wiltshire Constabulary, and was allowed to resign in the following December, after reporting a bogus burglary of his own invention. Early in 1898 he joined the Walsall borough police force, and was ordered to resign in March of the same year for reporting a bogus burglary, and pretending he had been seriously assaulted. On the 3rd June of the same year he attempted to enlist at Chester in the name of Edward Smith, and the same day obtained £20 from a money-lender at Hoole by means of false pretences, under the name of Ernest Williams, his brother-in-law. On the 27th of the same month he joined the Oxfordshire Constabulary, and was ordered to resign after six weeks service, owing to his un­satisfactory and untrustworthy conduct. In the, fol­lowing August he was arrested at Whitney, Oxford­shire, on the charge of obtaining the £20 by false pretences referred to, and at Chester Quarter Sessions on October 20th he was sentenced to 12 months’ hard labour. He had obtained other sums of money under similar false pretences, but the injured parties refused to prosecute. Just 12 months later he joined the Great Northern Railway police on false documents, and was dismissed in the April following. In July, 1900, he enlisted into the 2nd Life Guards, and after serving 30 days he was discharged on account of his suffering from epilepsy. During the season 1900 and 1901 he was in the employ of Lord Delamere as an under-keeper on the Vale Royal Estate, White­gate, and his conduct was in every way satisfactory. In January, 1902, he joined the Imperial Yeomany, and was drafted out to South Africa, but after serving 111 days he was again invalided home, and discharged through Netley Hospital, suffering from epileptic fits, which he at this time alleged had been  brought about by having beep kicked by a horse whilst on stable duty at Aldershot about the end of April 1902, before being  sent to Africa  On his dis­charge from the army he was granted a gratuity of £4 11s. 4d., in lieu of a pension of sixpence per day for six months. In October, 1902, he petitioned the “Lords and other Commissioners” of Chelsea Hos­pital to re-consider their decision as to compensation granted him, with the result that he was granted a new pension of 2s. per day for 12 months conditionally. A number of the signatures to the petition were found to be forgeries. In October, 1903, and August, 1904, he was medically examined at Lichfield, and in September, 1904, he was notified from the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, that he had been granted a pen­sion of 2s. per day for life. In December of the same year he was charged at the Stafford County Police Court with an offence under the Poaching Prevention Act, and was fined £5 and costs; and in February, 1905, he took up an agency under an insurance society, and was dismissed in the August following for inattention to business. When arrested at Stafford he had in his possession four army certificates (parchments), purporting to have been issued to Sergeant-Major S. J. Charlesworth, of the 9th Lancers, These had been found to he forgeries.   

Chief Superintendent Bishop and Police-Sergeant Adams having spoken of the previous good character of Sammons and Crewe, they were bound over.

Charlesworth said: “I have only to say that I think the police have been prejudiced against me. They are perfectly right as far as the epilepsy goes. That has stood in my light all my life. I was thinking of going abroad to see if I could find any possible cure with baths. No one has gone through more suffering than I have during the past two months, while I have been awaiting trial. Deal leniently with me, and give me one chance, and I will go abroad with my child. If you do this you will never live to regret it”.

Sir Reginald Hardy, after commenting upon the seriousness of the crime, then passed sentence of five years penal servitude.

“My lord you have pronounced my death sentence” exclaimed Charlesworth as he was led out of the dock in a semi-conscious state.

 

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

WEDNESDAY

Present Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman ), Councillors E. G. Exley, J, Nicklin, T. Griffiths,  and G. Keay, Messrs F. H. Potts (town clerk) G. Stevenson (surveyor) H. Herbert(sanitary inspector), and E. Oakes (rate collector).

Mr. Herbert reported two cases of scarlet  fever at the Folly, Broseley. Had not one of the children officer taken to the doctor for bronchitis, the officer said nothing would have been known about it.- The Chairman said it was in his opinion, a case for prosecution.- The officer said the woman stated that she did not know what it was. Since then two other cases had been notified.-  The Clerk: People are supposed to know the law and not the  disease.- The Chairman: Sometimes it is easier to know the disease- and not the law. (Laughter.)- The matter dropped at this.

Mr. Abberley complained of a lot of water being allowed to run to waste.- It was decided to issue notices to the householders.- The Officer reported that he had examined the water mains, and found them all to be in good working order. He said he had made the quarterly inspection of the meters, which were all in good condition.

A letter was read from Mr. J. Thomas offer­ing to give the Posenhall Reservoir an extra coat of paint for £3.- The members were of opinion that it would be money well spent, and the offer was accepted.

The Clerk reported that there was a balance in hand on the general account of £273 6s. 6d., and a debit balance on the water account of £166 13s. 4d. He said there was a balance to their credit on the two accounts of £104.

The surveyor's expenses for the month amounted to £13, and a cheque for £20 was drawn in his favour to meet the ensuing month's expenditure.

Three tenders were received for hauling material from Iron-Bridge Railway Station to the district roads, and that of Mr T. Instone, jr, which was the lowest, was accepted.

 

MUCH WENLOCK

BARROW DISTRICT COUNCIL. -A meeting of this Council was held on Monday; present:- Alderman J. Davies (chairman), Councillor W. Bishop, Messrs. F. H. Potts (clerk). G. Stevenson (surveyor), and H. Herbert (inspector).-A cheque for £25 was withdrawn in favour of the surveyor.-The Inspector reported the district free of infectious disease. He also reported that a number of cowkeepers had not made any application for registration purposes. Proceedings will be taken against the defaulters.

 

13th July 1907

Letters to the Editor

RE-AFFORESTATION IN SALOP.

Sir,- The articles that have appeared in your valuable paper under the above heading are sure to awaken in many readers a lively interest linking, as they do, the present with the past. How much we owe to the foresight of such men, who have proved benefactors of mankind, who have had the wisdom to clothe the barren pit mounds with beautiful trees!

Alluding to the Stocking Mounds, Broseley (which are visible from the Wrekin), memorials to the wisdom of the planter, as a boy I have rambled among the trees on the Stocking Mounds. At that time the whole place was alive with the hum of insect life and to my boyish fancy the place looked as if Nature had left the Stocking Mounds as they stood. And then again at the entrance to Willey Park a small forest of beautiful trees was there planted on the pit clay. And what a feeling of bewildering wonderment comes over one, standing on Benthall Edge and looking over Tickwood and Buildwas Park estate! How many are there living who would have known, had it not been far the kindness of Mr. John Randall, through the columns of the JOURNAL, that such places hart once been barren mounds of pit clay?                                                        H. EVANS.

Princess Street, Rusholme.

 

MADELEY COUNTY COURT

WEDNESDAY

CLAIM FOR A TRAP. - William Roberts, Conibury Farm, Broseley, claimed five guineas from William Griffiths, hospital keeper, Broseley, which plaintiff alleged was the price of a trap purchased from plaintiff.- Plaintiff said he agreed to sell defendant a trap for five guineas, and to let him have it for a day’s trial to see if it would suit. He was to return it on the following day, or if he did not it was understood that he would keep it altogether. Defendant kept the trap about five weeks afterwards, and then said he would not buy it.- Defendant admitted that the trap was worth the money claimed of it, but it did not suit his pony. There was no agreement as to when the trap should be returned, but defendant did not use it more than three times. The Judge gave judgment for the amount claimed defendant to have the trap.

 

BROSELEY.

CHOIR EXCURSION.- On Monday the Church choir had their annual excursion, the place chosen this year being Llandudno. The whole of the arrangements were in the capable hands of Mr. H. Wase, who carried out the same in a very satisfactory manner.

PETTY SESSIONS.-TUESDAY.

Before Councillor R. F. Ayre (mayor), Captain Geo. Forester, Dr. G. D. Collins, Alderman D. L. Prestage, and Mr. E. W. Shorting.

ASSAULT, &c.-Francis Smith, labourer, Broseley, was charged with unlawfully obstructing Mrs. Mary Gray, crossing keeper at Bradley, Much Wenlock, when in the execution of her duty. Mr. Evers (Stourbridge) appeared on behalf of the G.W.Ry. Company.

Complainant stated that when the 5 o'clock train was due from Buildwas a man named Sankey came with a team belonging to Mr. Boulton. Defendant, who was present, took off his coat, and wanted to fight Sankey. Complainant was delayed ten minutes in consequence from doing her duty.- John Sankey, gave corroborative evidence.- Defendant denied the charge.- He was also charged with assaulting Mrs. Gray.- Complainant stated that defendant struck her on the breast, and also on the forehead.- Frederick Gray, husband, and John Sankey, deposed that they, saw the defendant strike Mrs. Gray.-For the assault Smith was sentenced to four weeks’ imprisonment, and for the obstruction he was fined 10s. and costs, in default, another four weeks’ imprisonment.

A WARNING.-Richard Cleeton, Percy Haywood. Percy Pitt, and Cecil Nevitt., youths, Much Wenlock, were charged with doing wilful damage to the roof of the powder-house belonging to the South Wales and Cannock Coal and Coke Company.- Police-constable Street said he saw the defendants throw stones on the roof of the house. The tiles were broken, and he estimated the damage at £l.- Fred Sankey. gave corroborative evidence.- Benjamin Beech, agent; of the company, stated that its company did not wish to press the case, but they brought forward the action in order to warn others. The company had been subjected to considerable annoyance of this kind. Defendants were discharged on payment of 1s. damage and the costs.

DRUNKENNESS.- Edward James was charged with being drunk and disorderly at Broseley,-Police-constable Lycett proved the case.-Defendant was fined 2s. 6d, and costs, or 14 days.- Henry Trevis, labourer. Iron-Bridge, was charged by Police constable Heatley; with being drunk at Madeley, and was fined 10s. 6d, Including costs.

NO LIGHT.- Frederick Stephan, Coalport, was charged by Police-constable Wakeley with riding a bicycle at Madeley without a light.- The case was dismissed on payment of costs.

STEALING COAL- Eva Thompson, married woman. Madeley was charged with stealing 17lb. weight of coal. value 2d., the property of the Madeley Wood Company.-Police-constable Bentley, Edward Hill, and T. Oakes gave evidence.-Defendant was fined 15s.

 

JACKFIELD.

A CONCERT was given n Sunday evening by the local prize band, under the direction of Mr. Geo. Aston. A collection was made for new instruments. The several items were rendered, and included the’following:- March, “King's Royal Rifles”; overture, “Latona”; fantasia,  “John O'Gaunt”; chorus, “Hallelujah” (“Messiah”); overture, “Golden Star”; march. ”The Royal Wedding”.

OBITUARY.- Mr. James Harrington, landlord of the Boat Inn, expired yesterday week after a brief illness at the age of 59. For a period of 40 years deceased had held an important position with Messrs, Maw and Co.. Ltd. He was one of the oldest members of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge of Oddfellows, He took an active part in local events, and had been a member of the Coronation Committee since its inauguration. Deceased was a supporter of the Unionist cause, and a member of the local committee of that party. The funeral took place on Tuesday at Broseley Cemetery, the principal mourners being Mrs. Harrington (widow), Miss B. Harrington (daughter), Mr. and Mrs. T. H. Harrington, Mr. and Mrs. G. Harrington, Mr. Albert Harrington, and Mr. Arthur Harrington (sons), Mr. W. Harrington (brother). Mr. A. Hudson (son-in-law), Mr. T. Harrington and Mr. J. Harrington, ,jun. (nephews), and Mr. J. Nicklin (manager for Messrs. Maw and Co., Ltd.) There was also a large number of friends present, including a contingent of Odd fellows.

 

27th July 1907

BROSELEY.

MUSICAL SUCCESS.- At a recent examination held at Shrewsbury, Mr. George Tonkiss of Queen Street, Broseley, was successful in obtaining the degree of Associate of the London College of Music.

HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.- The annual meeting of this society was held on Monday, when several additions were made to the already large prize list. The show will be held, as usual, at the end of August.

 

IRON-BRIDGE

PROPOSED FREE BRIDGE.- Towards the funds of the proposed free footbridge across the, Severn, Mr. R. Allworth, the proprietor of the Alexander Theatre, very generously gave a performance on Wednesday night to a packed audience.- During the evening the Mayor, who was present, thanked Mr. Allworth for his generous offer, which the committee much appreciated.

 

BROSELEY-WOOD

TRIP.- The Primitive Methodist Choir and friends had their annual outing on Saturday, the place chosen being Church Stretton.  Upwards of 40 thoroughly enjoyed the drive and scenery, the weather being all that could be desired.  After rambling over the hills and dining the return journey was safely made.

 

3rd August 1907

BROSELEY.

*      Broseley Women's Unionist Association.- Members of Association are invited to attend a Meeting to he held at Leighton Hall on the afternoon of August 10th. Admission by Ticket only.-Apply to Mrs. Boon.

NATIONAL SCHOOLS.- Yesterday these schools broke up for the summer holidays to the great delight of the pupils, and doubtless their teachers.

LIFE BOAT SATURDAY FUND.- On Saturday a few of the older boys attending Broseley National School made an envelope collection for this fund in Broseley and Benthall. The response was so generous that a sum of £4 8s. 6d. has been secured for the fund, and paid over by Mr. H. E. Clark, who is the local hon. secretary.

EXCURSION.- In splendid weather and amidst magnificent scenery the scholars connected with the Broseley Wesleyan Sunday School had their annual treat on Saturday last in an orchard at the foot of the Wrekin, kindly placed at their disposal by Mr. Active of Rushton Cottage, Eaton Constantine. The children, teachers, and a few friends numbering about 120, were conveyed to their destination in brakes. Various games were indulged in until tea was announced, the lady teachers acting as caterers. After tea the bulk of the party ascended the Wrekin. Cricket, football, &c., were also heartily entered into. A cordial vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Active for his kindness on the occasion, after which the party wended their way homewards.

SCHOOL TREAT.- The scholars attending the Broseley Church Sunday School had their annual treat yesterday week. They amused themselves in various ways in the schoolyard until tea was announced, Then they sat down to an excellent repast. A variety of games were subsequently indulged in, and a very pleasant evening was spent.

THE ANNIVERSARY of the Broseley Congregational Sunday school was held on Sunday, when able sermons were preached by Mr. Joseph Green of Handsworth College. The musical portion of the services was admirably rendered by the children and choir. In the afternoon Mr. Green delivered an interesting address, and the children and choir sang special hymns and an anthem. At the close of the evening service, the organist gave a fine interpretation of the “Hallelujah Chorus”, which was highly appreciated. A collection was taken on each occasion in aid of the school fund amounting, with donations, to £8 2s.9d.

 

10th August 1907

BROSELEY.

CORRECTION.- In the report of the Wenlock Education Committee meeting it should have stated that Mr. Robert Thomas's (and not T. Roberts's) tender was accepted for work at the National Schools at Broseley.

SPECIAL SERVICES.- On Sunday two practical sermons were preached at Birch Meadow Chapel by Mr. A. A. Blackridge of Oakengates. Special hymns were effectively rendered by the children and choir, under the direction of Mr. A. F. Broadhurst. There was a fair congregation at each service, and collections were taken in aid of the chapel funds.

ACCIDENT.- On Wednesday an accident occurred to Frederick Aston (telegraph messenger) whilst proceeding on his bicycle along the Bridgnorth Road to deliver a telegram at Nordley. From some unaccountable cause, when near the Dean, he slipped off the machine sideways, falling to the ground, knocking one of his teeth out, and causing severe contusions to mouth, face, hands, and arms. He was kindly attended at a cottage close by, after which he pluckily re-mounted his bicycle and returned to his home in Duke Street, Broseley. He is now progressing satisfactorily under the care of Dr. Boon.

TREATS.- On Monday the scholars attending the Old Baptist Sunday School had their annual treat in the schoolroom, when about 60, including teachers and friends, sat down to an excellent tea, after which they proceeded to a field lent by Mr. Davies of The Park, where the children indulged in cricket, football, races, and other games, each child receiving a prize. The youngsters enjoyed themselves immensely, the teachers and friends being unremitting in their efforts to promote their happiness. A return was afterwards made to the school room, where sweets and biscuits were given to each child, after which they proceeded homeward. - On Monday the scholars attending the Birch Meadow Baptist Sunday School had their annual treat in the upper schoolroom, which had been tastefully adorned with flowers, evergreens, &c., by the teachers, and presented a bright and picturesque appearance. Full ,justice having been done to the good things provided, the children proceeded to a field adjoining the chapel, kindly lent by Mrs. Bathurst, where they entered heartily into a variety of games. Meanwhile the teachers and friends sat down to tea, after which they joined the children in the field, vieing with each other in their efforts to promote the youngsters’ enjoyment until dusk.

 

17th August 1907

BROSELEY

A SUCCESSFUL EXHIBITOR.- Mr. F. S. Francis of this town gained a second prize in Class 13 (for chickens hatched this year) at the Newport Show and a third was won by the same gentleman at the Dawley show for his pullet in class 10.

DANCE.- On Thursday evening a dance took place on the Victoria Institute Bowling Green.  There was a fair number present on the beautifully laid out ground.  Up-to-date music was played in fine style by the Jackfield Brass Band, under the direction of Mr. George Aston (bandmaster).  Messrs E. Gittings and P. Mason proved themselves efficient M.C.’s.

SPECIAL SERVICES.- On Sunday “Owd Mo” (Mr. Moses Welsby, the Lancashire collier) delivered two discourses in the Wesleyan Chapel. Special hymns, together with the anthem, “The Radiant Morn”, were rendered by the choir.  There was a good congregation at each service, and collections were taken in aid of the Choir Fund.- On Monday “Owd Mo” gave an interesting lecture, entitled “Twenty Years with the Rev. Thomas Champness”, in which he paid a generous eulogy to the late rev. gentleman.  A collection was taken at the close on behalf on Mr. Champness’s mission.

DEATH OF MR. ISAAC WATTS.- On Tuesday were laid to rest in Epsom Cemetery  the mortal remains of one who was well known and deeply respected in Broseley and its vicinity, Mr Isaac Watts.  The funeral service was conducted by the Vicar of Epsom (the Rev. W. Bainbridge-Ball M.A.) and the Rev. W. A. Thomas M.A., of Epsom College, and there were present:- Professor W.W. Watts, F.R.S.  and Mr T. I. Watts (sons), Miss Beatrix M. A.  Watts (granddaughter), Mrs W.W. Watts, Miss Sessions, Mrs Scott, the Misses Daisy and Violet Scott, Dr Coltart, Mr J. A. Newsom, M.A., and Sergeant Bowell (both of Epsom College), Kenneth Briggs, and Miss Hall.  The coffin, which was covered with choice flowers, was of plain unpolished oak with white metal fittings; the plate bore the inscription:- “Isaac Watts, born July 7th, 1827, died August 10th, 1907”. many readers of the JOURNAL will be interested to know that Mr. Watts lived his active and energetic life to within three days of the death; the cause of death was failure of the heart following a very slight pleurisy and congestion of one lung, and his 80 years made it difficult to expect from the first any but a fatal termination.  He passed away peacefully and without pain at dawn on Sunday.

 

24th August 1907

SHROPSHIRE PAUPERISM

NUMBER. CLASS, AND COST

Madeley.- In this workhouse there were 166 paupers; of these 14 were adult able-bodied males, one female, and 33 children.  In asylums, &c. there were 84 lunatics chargeable to the rates. Outdoor relief was given to 481 persons; of these 20 were adult able-bodied males, 18 wives 16 widows, 2 other females, and 114 children.  The cost of in-maintenance in 1906 was £1,657, and out–relief £2,083.

 

BROSELEY.

HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.-The annual show in connection with this society is advertised to be held on Wednesday and Thursday next.. It is considered by many the finest show in Mid-Shropshire. There will be numerous attractions, grid the Jackfield Prize Band will play for dancing both days.

 

31st August 1907

BROSELEY FLOWER SHOW.

Brilliant weather attended the annual flower show of the Broseley Horticultural Society, which was held on Wednesday and Thursday, and which maintained its reputation as being one of the finest exhibitions in Mid-Shropshire. The horticultural produce reached a high standard of merit, and the visitors were delighted with the quality of the exhibits. In the majority of the classes there was keen competition, and the judges performed their task with considerable success, and evidently to the general satisfaction. The exhibits were staged in the National Schoolroom. The entries were 100 more than last year, and one of the features of the show was the brilliant display of sweet peas, which occupied 250 vases. The show of wild flowers clearly demonstrated that the people of the district had developed a taste for the flowers of the field and the lane as well as of the garden. Lord Forester sent a handsome collection of Plants, &c., not for competition, and Major Garrett a fine lot of begonias, which added considerably to the beauty of the show. In a separate room was a collection of  South African vegetable curios, sent by Mr. E. Powis. The general arrangements were well carried out, and the energetic secretaries (Messrs. P. Scott and T. Jones) are deserving of much praise for the manner in which they performed their duties. The judges were Mr. Canning (Aldenham Park) and Mr. T. Penson (Willey Hall) for the open classes, and for the cottagers’ section Mr. W. J. Crawford (Severn House) and Mr. Baker (Bourton Cottage). The proceedings were enlivened each day by the strains of the Jackfield Brass Band, who also played for dancing.

 

31st August 1907

JACKFIELD.

DIOCESAN MISSION.- On Tuesday in connection with this mission a united open-air mission service was held near the Jackfield Red Church, and an unprecedented number of persons were present. The Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, M.A. (rector), conducted the service, and the Rev. F. B. Philps (diocesan missioner) delivered a powerful address. Special hymns were well rendered by the Jackfield Church Choir (surpliced), in which the vast assembly heartily joined. The Jackfield Brass Band accompanied, and at the close of the service played excellent selections of music. The Rev. W. A. Terry (vicar of Benthall) was present at the service. Mr. Philps expressed his thanks to the Rector of Jackfield for his kindly efforts in promoting the success of the meeting, without which, he said, such a gathering could not have been possible. He also thanked the Jackfield Church Choir and the Brass Band for their presence and assistance.

CORONATION FESTIVITIES.- The anniversary of King Edward’s accession to the throne was on Saturday, commemorated by the inhabitants in loyal fashion. Brilliant weather prevailed, and the village situated on the banks of the Severn never looked better. It was profuse with bunting, and there was scarcely a house that did not exhibit some kind of decoration, whilst there were garlands almost innumerable. The procession, which was of a varied character, was formed outside the school, and was witnessed by crowds of people, and was pronounced to be the best and longest since its inauguration. It was headed by the Jackfield Prize Band, conducted by Mr. G. Aston, and in the rear was “The Old Cockade Prize Band”, led by Mr. A. Harrison, and caused considerable amusement. The children were prettily attired in gay costume and everyone carried bunches of flowers; Mr. T. Hill proved a very funny clown. The youngest children in the procession rode in tastefully decorated waggons. The village having been paraded, all the children from the age of 3 to 15 were entertained to tea in the schoolroom as well as others who took part in the parade. Dancing and games subsequently took place in Mr. T. Doughty’s field, and quite an enjoyable time was spent. The event proved a thorough success, and much credit is due to the following gentlemen, who constituted the committee - Messrs. Chas. Hughes (chairman), W. Harrison (vice-chairman) W. Hudson (secretary), J. Hearn (treasurer), E. Ball, E. Wylde, A. Ball, E. Bail jun., S. Lewis, H. Watkis, P. Price, W. E. Jones, A. Ball, J. Rowe, T. Wright, W. H. Meredith, Alb. Evans and the Rev. Marsden Edwards.

 

BROSELEY.

DIOCESAN MISSION.- On Monday special services in connection with this mission were hold in the Parish Church, in the afternoon for women only, and in the evening for men only, the Rev. F. B. Philps (diocesan missioner) delivering addresses of an impressive character. A number of hymns were heartily sung, and there was a good attendance at each service.

PARISH CHURCH.- On Sunday sermons were preached (morning and evening) in the Parish Church by the Rev. F. B. Philps (diocesan missioner), in aid of Church funds. The services were also taken by the Diocesan Missioner, and the lessons at the evening service were read by the Rev. W. A. Terry (vicar of Benthall). The musical portion of the services was admirably rendered by the choir, under the direction of Mr. W. H. Griffiths (choirmaster), Mr. W. Davis acting as organist. There were good congregations.

HOSPITAL SUNDAY.- The annual church parade of the Broseley and district friendly societies took place on Sunday. The weather proved fine, and the streets were thronged with spectators. The members of the various societies, &c., who joined the movement, met near Broseley Wood School (the honorary members assembling at the Town Hall), and here they formed a procession, and marched through the principal streets to Broseley Parish Church in the following order:- Band and members of D Company, 1st V. B. K.S.L.I., Ambulance Brigade, Fire Brigade, honorary members of friendly societies, Mr. E. B. Potts (clerk of the peace), Mr. F. H. Potts (town clerk), councillors J Nicklin, T. Griffiths, S. T. Instone, and G. Keay, Jackfield Brass Band, members of the Order of Foresters, Modern Masons, Oddfellows, Madeley Brass Band, and Twentieth Century Equitable Friendly Society. Divine service was held in the church, the sermon being preached by the Rev. F. B. Philps (diocesan missioner), and the lesson read by Councillor J. Nicklin. Special hymns were rendered by the choir. At the conclusion of the service the huge procession, which was marshalled by Messrs. J. Morgan, T. Lloyd, T. Roper, T. Minton, J. Wilde, G. P. Bagley, A. Humphries, and J. Watkins, re-formed, and marched to the Town Hall, where they dispersed, after which the several bands played alternately an excellent selection of music. The Jackfield Brass Band took up their position on the Victoria Institute Bowling Green. The total amount received from all sources was about £24, which will be devoted to Salop Infirmary, Shrewsbury Eye and Ear Hospital, and Iron-Bridge Dispensary. There is a considerable falling off this year, compared with the receipts of last year, which is in a measure attributed to the fact that, two or three liberal subscribers in the past have not yet responded, and to the Shrewsbury floral fete having taken place so recently, also that there are now two hospitals in the borough of Wenlock. There was a strong and energetic committee, who, together with Messrs. J. Watkins (chairman), W. H. Harrison (vice-chairman), J. Morgan (treasurer), and G. P. Bagley (secretary) were most unremitting in their efforts to promote the success of the undertaking.

 

7th September 1907

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

WEDNESDAY.

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

Mr. Herbert stated that there had been one case of scarlet fever since the last meeting.

A letter was read from Mr. T. Crump, Bridgnorth, concerning a nuisance by his cottages caused by the urinal belonging to a public-house near. He asked for the nuisance to be abated.- Several members were of the opinion that the urinal should be at the back of the house.- Mr. Keay contended that if they forced that opinion they would be compelled to erect public urinals, for there were none in the town.- On the motion of Mr. Doughty a sub-committee was appointed to visit the place.- The Chairman said there was no doubt that public urinals were required in the town, and he thought they would have to include that expenditure in the next estimate.

Mr. Abberley reported he had examined the mains at Broseley and Jackfield, and found them all in good condition.- The Clerk reported that there was a balance in hand on the general district and water accounts of £356.

The rate collector presented a list of rate defaulters, which included one of the Councillors, and this led up to an altercation in the room of a very undignified character. In the course of a heated discussion, Mr. Doughty said he was of opinion that if they allowed 5 per cent. on those who paid within 14 days they would have no difficulty in getting in the money.- The Clerk said it would not be legal. - Mr. Doughty said it was unfair to large ratepayers who paid their rate in 21 days, whilst the bulk of the ratepayers held their money back to the last.- After further conversation the collector was instructed to take the usual proceedings for the recovery of the rates.

A bill was presented for repairs to the fire engine (25s.), which was ordered to be paid, the motion of Mr. Doughty.

Mr Instone called attention to the bad condition of the pavement to the church.-The chairman said he should like to spend £100 on the pavements next year, but they were short of money.

The Gas Company's tender for supplying public lamps with gas at 29s. per lamp was accepted.

 

MUCH WENLOCK

BARROW COUNCIL.- A meeting of this Council was held on Monday; present:-Alderman J. Davies (chairman), Councillors W. Bishop, J. Roberts, and Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), and H. Herbert (inspector). - Mr. Hurdley's tender, 8s., for emptying the Benthall ashpit was accepted. The surveyor was instructed to obtain 100 tons of Pontesbury stone for the Benthall road. The Inspector reported the district free from infectious disease.

 

MADELEY.

LONGEVITY.- On Sunday last Mr. John Randall, who is known personally to many of the JOURNAL readers, and to a much wider circle as a contributor to these columns for considerably more than half-a-century, was the recipient of numerous congratulations and good wishes on the completion of his 97th year. Mr. Randall, who is locally termed the “Grand Old Man of Shropshire”, is in the enjoyment of good health and in the possession of all his faculties. His memory and mental activity are remarkable, and he is an excellent example of a serene and happy old age. [The Editor of the JOURNAL begs to add his congratulations to Mr. Randall.]

 

BROSELEY.

BURIAL BOARD.- Alderman D. L. Prestage presided on Wednesday at a meeting of this Board, when Mr: F. H. Potts (clerk) reported a balance of £18 3s. 7d. in hand. The business was of a purely formal character.

 

BENTHALL.

THE WAKES.- This old-time custom was kept up on Monday with much gusto. Mrs. Clinton kindly entertained 100 children to a substantial tea, who also were recipients of prizes. Mrs. Clinton received good help from Mr. and Mrs. Matthews, Miss Alitt, and others. Sports were held in a field, of which the subjoined is the programme. Mr. T. Minton made a very capable secretary. After the sports Mr. and Mrs. Clinton distributed the prizes to the successful competitors, and they were thanked for their services. The sports resulted thus:- 120 yards (men under 30 years of age) : 1 A. Hall 2 E. Minton, 3 J. G. Bradeley. Men over 30 years of age : 1 S. Minton, 2 G. Goodall, 3 W. Cross. Sack race 1 J. G. Bradeley, 2 A. Hall, 3 T. D. Boden. Pipe race : 1 A. Hall, 2 E. Minton, 3 W. Cross. Barrow race : 1 E. Minton and W. Cross, 2 J. G. Bradeley and G. Goodall. Thief race: G. Goodall, The football six-a-side contest resulted in a draw. Starter. P. Watkins.

 

14th September 1907

BENTHALL.

TEA AND GAMES.- Mrs. Sandbach-Parker very kindly entertained about 400 children from the Broseley National Schools to a substantial tea on Tuesday at the hall. The weather was delightful, and games were indulged in. Mr. R. M. Sandbach succeeded in making the juveniles happy. Before the departure of the children cheers were given for Mrs. Sandbach-Parker for her kindness.

SUPPER.- The members of the Benthall Savings Club were entertained to an excellent supper last week at the New Inn. After the cloths bad been removed, Mr. Onslow Southern was voted to the chair, and in a few well chosen remarks he referred to the society and its benefits. Afterwards a pleasant evening was spent, the following contributing songs :- Messrs. F. Watkins, E. Minton, A. Hall, J. Gittings, J. McCoy, T. Minton, and others. Mr. J. Green was the accompanist.

 

BROSELEY.

TREAT.- The children (with the exception of the infants) attending the National Schools were entertained to an excellent tea on Tuesday by Mrs. Sandbach-Parker (Benthall Hall). The scholars, numbering about 400, met in the avenue leading to the hall, and marched to the lawn, where they sang, “All things bright and beautiful”, after which they proceeded to a field at the back, and played cricket, football, &c., until tea was announced, which took place on the lawn. Later the field was again resorted to, and games were entered into with renewed vigour. A quantity of sweets was also distributed. At dusk the teachers and children again assembled upon the lawn, and hearty cheers were given for Mr. and Mrs. Sandbach-Parker and family.

 

28th September 1907

BROSELEY WOOD.

HARVEST SERVICES were held in the Primitive Methodist Chapel on Sunday, when two excellent sermons were preached by Mr. W. J. Crawford of Iron-Bridge. The chapel was beautifully decorated by Mr. and Mrs. Powell, Misses A. Gough, H. Davis, L. Goodwin, Messrs. W. Lee, W. Harvey, B. Bennett, and Mr. G. Higgins, who took charge of the fruit and flowers. special anthems and hymns were creditably rendered by the choir, conducted by Mr. Powell. The collections were in advance of last year.

 

5th October 1907

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL.

WEDNESDAY.- Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors J. Nicklin, T. L. Griffiths, and G. Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (inspector), and E, Oakes (rate collector).- Mr. Herbert reported the district to be free from infectious disease. He also reported a number of nuisances, and the usual orders were made.- Mr. Abberley reported that they were using more water; 32,000 gallons were used at the hospital during the quarter, and 30,000 gallons at Messrs. Maw and Co.’s works, Jackfield. Extra pumping was therefore required. All the mains were in good working order. He had removed the conduit from Coalport. Mr. Oakes told the meeting that the general district rate was closed. He had taken out 11 summonses, but all had paid. The water rate was cleared up with the exception of £1 19s. 3d.- Cheques for £100 on the main roads account, and £45 on the general district account were drawn in favour of the surveyor to pay bills and meet current expenses.- The Clerk reported a balance in hand on the general account of £533 5s. 6d., and an adverse balance on the water account.

26th October 1907

MUNICIPAL ELECTIONS

NOMINATIONS AT MUCH WENLOCK

The folklowing burgesses were on Thursday nominated for seats on the Council:- Barrow Ward, W. Bishop; Broseley Ward, J. Nickiln and T. Doughty….

 

2nd November 1907

DEATH FROM LEAD-POISONING
AT JACKFIELD,

On Tuesday Mr. Coroner F. H. Potts held an inquiry at Iron-Bridge into the death of Elizabeth Wooding, married woman, forewoman paintress at Messrs. Maw and Co.'s encaustic works, Jackfield, who expired after a brief illness on Sunday. Messrs. H. G. Garvie (factory inspector), A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (representing the husband), R. A. Llewellyn of Tunstall ( representing Messrs. Maw and Co.), J. Maw and J. Nicklin (directors of Messrs. Maw's works), and F. R. Smith (managing director of Messrs. Craven, Dunnill, and Co.'s works, Jackfield) attended the inquiry.

William Hy. Wooding, hairdresser, Longport, Staffordshire (husband of deceased), stated that deceased was forewoman in the majolica painting, in the employ of Messrs. Maw and Co., which position she had held since September 9th last. He believed she had been away from her work about a fortnight. His wife had been in the business for a period of 17 years, and a doctor had told him that she had suffered from lead colic about 11 or 12 years ago, but she had had no symptoms since. She had worked at Burslem for nine years before coming to Jackfield, and all that time she had never had a doctor.- By the Inspector: She had complained whilst at Burslem of a taste of lead in her mouth.-B Mr. Llewellyn: She had always passed the doctor satisfactorily.- By Mr. Thorn-Pudsey: Deceased always denied that she ever suffered from lead-poisoning.

Dr. Whitfield deposed that he had attended deceased during her illness. He suspected that lead was at the bottom of her illness, but she denied it. He gleaned from her that her health had not been so well during the last 18 months. Witness was of opinion that her death was due to chronic lead-poisoning, from which he believed she had been suffering for at least three years.- By the Inspector: Deceased told witness that she had not so much to do with the lead at Jackfield as at her previous situation. She came there for her health.- By Mr. Llewellyn: He was certain the lead-poisoning was contracted before the last five weeks.

Dr. Brown, Broseley, certifying factory surgeon for the borough of Wenlock, said he did not think it was possible for the lead-poisoning to be contracted within the last five weeks.

The jury returned a verdict of “Death from chronic lead-poisoning contracted before coming into this district”.

 

 

9th November 1907

BROSELEY.

WESLEYANISM.- In continuation of the special mission services at the Wesleyan Chapel, the Rev. Colin A. Roberts (circuit minister) gave stirring addresses on the evenings of the 30th and 31st ult., and preached eloquent sermons on Sunday. He also held a meeting for men only in the afternoon. At the evening service Mr. W. Edge (circuit steward) gave a brief but forcible address. On Wednesday evening Miss Emmie Oakley sang a solo in a very pleasing manner, and on Thursday evening the Misses May Hartshorne and Lucy Powell gave a duet. A solo was also rendered by Miss Kitty Morgan, and on Sunday evening Mr. Percy Hartshorne gave a solo, the chorus being taken up by the choir. The choir rendered their services throughout the mission.

WEDDING.- On the 26th ult. a pretty wedding was celebrated at St. George's Church, Stuyvasent Square, New York, the contracting parties being Mr. Alfred E. Nicklin of Zanesville, Ohio, eldest son of the late Mr. Edwin Nicklin and Mrs. Nicklin of Broseley, and Miss Annie Scowsill, youngest daughter of Mr. Geo. T. Scowsill of Grapes Hotel, Peel Green, Manchester. The ceremony was performed by the Rev. Mr. Bond-Holland. The bridegroom is a native of Broseley. He was employed as a draughtsman for some years at Messrs. Maw and Co.'s Encaustic Works, Jackfield.

WESLEYANISM.-The special mission services, conducted by the Rev. Colin A. Roberts, were continued on Monday and Tuesday evening, and on Wednesday evening a consecration service was held in the Wesleyan Chapel, when the newly-made converts were appropriately addressed by Mr. Roberts. He also delivered earnest addresses on Monday and Tuesday evening. The choir again rendered valuable assistance, and on Monday evening Mr. E. R. Hartshorne sang a solo with his usual good taste. Miss Flora Leadbetter also gave a solo.

MEMORIAL WINDOW.- Last week, in the unavoidable absence of the Bishop of Colchester, two windows were dedicated in the Parish Church of St. Peter and St. Paul, Kimpton, Herts, in the presence or a large congregation, by the Rural Dean (the Rev. Henry Jephson). The windows were erected in memory of the vicar's wife (a daughter of Mr. E. B. Potts of The Bank House, Broseley), and were subscribed for by parishioners and friends. They have for their subjects the Preaching of the Baptist and the Dedication of Samuel. This latter subject was chosen in reference to the late Mrs. Shorting’s last wish that the little child-her only son-whose birth she did not survive, should be dedicated to the service of God in the sacred ministry of his church, and it bore the following inscription:- “We pray you, remember in the Lord Katherine, Sarah Shorting, who passed into the peace of Paradise January 20, 1907, in loving recollection of whom this window is dedicated”.

 

16th November 1907

BROSELEY.

ACCIDENT.- On Tuesday a married woman named Sarah Onions, residing in Church Street, slipped down and broke her leg. She is now an in-patient in “The Lady Forester Hospital”.

PETTY SESSIONS.-TUESDAY

Before Messrs. J. E. Boulton (mayor), A. B. Dyas, G. D. Collins, E. W. Shorting, F. G. Beddoes, B. Maddox, and W. Roberts.

CONGRATULATIONS.- Mr. G. H. Espley, on behalf of the legal profession, congratulated the new mayor on his appointment as chief magistrate of the borough.- The Mayor thanked Mr. Espley for his congratulations.

HIS FIRST CASE.- ohn Watterson, Wolverhampton, was charged with being drunk and disorderly at Much Wenlock. Sergeant Noakes proved the case.-The Mayor said that, as this was his first appearance on the Bench, the case would be dismissed, but he expressed the hope that defendant would not appear before them again.

A WARNING.- William Glover, potter, Broseley, was summoned for being drunk in charge of a child under the age of seven years.- Police-constable Lycett stated that he saw defendant pushing a baby’s chair containing a child two years of age. He was drunk, and nearly upset the chair several times.- Police-constable Reeves gave corroborative evidence.- Defendant denied that he was drunk. Defendant was fined 13s., including costs.

THEFT of COAL.– A  married woman, Jackfield, was charged with stealing 20 lb. weight of coal from Messrs. W. and P. Jones's tileworks.- Police-constable Reeves stated that early one morning be saw the defendant, accompanied by a little girl, enter the works, and come back with an apron full of coal. The woman had previously been warned. Defendant said she found the coal among the cinders.- She was fined 10s.

STEALING A FERRET.- Harry Duckett, groom, Much Wenlock, was charged with stealing a ferret, value 4s., the property of Mr. H. H. Poyner, baker and confectioner, Much Wenlock.- Sergeant Noakes proved the case.- Defendant was fined £l, including costs.

SLEEPING OUT.- For this offence, committed at Callaughton, Michael Hart, hailing from Bridgnorth, was sentenced to one month’s imprisonment.- Police-constable Street proved the case.

 

23rd November 1907

BROSELEY.

CONCERT.- The members of the Town Football Club held a smoking concert in the clubroom on Monday, when Mr. E. Francis made an efficient chairman. The following sustained the programme:- Messrs. G. Tonkiss, H. Wilde, E. Gittins, E. Bullock, E. Francis, and P. Mason.

BALL.- The annual invitation ball, under the auspices of the Fanciers’ Society, took place on Wednesday evening in the Town Hall, and proved a most enjoyable affair. There was a good attendance, upward: of 100 being present. The hall had keen very tastefully decorated by the stewards and several ladies, and presented a very bright appearance. Up-to-date music was supplied by a string band, and Mr. E. S. White was a very agreeable and courteous M.C. The event was most successful, and evidenced skilful management on the part of the stewards:- Messrs. A. Cleobury, W. Davis, F. Hill, S. A. Powell, P. Preston, H. Southern, E. Thomas, A. J. West, F. Vase, and the indefatigable honorary secretary, Mr. J. B. Ibbetson.- A dance in connection with the same society took place on Thursday, and was well attended.

 

30th November 1907

BENTHALL.

THE DEATH of Mr. William Allen occurred at his residence yesterday week. He was a son of Mr. Beriah Allen of Broseley. Born at Broseley in 1834, he was educated at private schools. He was a pottery manufacturer, art pottery being his speciality. For 15 years he was a member of Wenlock Town Council He married Julia Carolina, daughter of Mr. Isaac T. Lopes, merchant, Liverpool, and had issue one son and two daughters. The late Mr. Allen was of a kind and genial disposition, and will be missed by many. His kindness was bestowed in a quiet manner, and in many cases only known to himself and the recipients. He studied the welfare of his workpeople and neighbours generally, and his talents did not lie idle. He commenced manufacturing pottery at Benthall in 1862, and continued the business to the time of his death. His aim was to produce in pottery the beautiful and useful. The funeral took place at Benthall Church on Tuesday, the, service being taken by the Vicar (the Rev. W. A. Terry). The coffin bore the inscription :-“William Allen, died Nov. 22, 1907, aged 73 years”. The remains were interred in a brick vault. A muffled peal was rung in the evening by the bellringers of Broseley Parish Church. The mourning coaches contained Mr. William Allen (son), Mr. Robert Potts (son-in-law), Mr. Charles Marshall (nephew), Mr. E. B. Potts, Mr. H. W. Hamilton, Mr. George Potts, and Dr. P. Law-Webb. The employees present included Messrs. A. J. Hartshorne, C. R. Jones, George Overend, J. T. Foster, John Bradley, Hy. Foster, John Evans, Wm. Cartwright, Thos. Denstone, A. H. Glover, Wm. Cross, Arthur Cleobury, John Denstone, George Austin, Wm. Parker, Wm. Denstone, John Scriven, jun., J. H. Cross, Richard Whitmore, Isaac Cross, George Cross, John Beaman, Wm. Jones, Edward Haynes, Hy. Lears, and John Bradley. Amongst the friends who attended were Messrs. A. J. Downes, Thos. Griffiths, Arthur Wilds, James Hartshorne, O. W. Caldicutt, Hudson (Bridgnorth), Wm. Francis, Edward Oakes, H. J. Rushton. Edwin Davis, Peter Jones, William Bishop, J. Ibbitson, Joseph Morgan, Thos. Francis, Wm. Green, James Poyner, Abberley, Blackford, and T. Boden. The funeral arrangements were conducted by Mr. C. T. Smith (Broseley). Wreaths, &c., were sent by “Mother, Hilda, and Will”, “Edith and Bob”, Mr. and Mrs. Rees, Mr. and Mrs. Armitstead, Mr. and Mrs. George Potts, Mrs. Sandbach-Parker and children, Rev. G. F., Mrs., and Miss Lamb, Dr. and Mrs. Law-Webb, Mrs. Watkis and Hilda, “Ivy Cottage, Benthall”, Mr. and Mrs. G. Hartshorne (Coppice Head), Mr. and Mrs. Morgan (Barratt's Hill),  Mr. and Mrs. W. Gough. Mr. and Mrs. J. Cross and family, employees of Benthall and Haybrook Potteries, Mrs. Exley and family Mr. and Mrs. Simmonds, and the Rev. T. D. T. and Mrs. McArthur. In the course of his sermon at the parish Church on Sunday the Rev. W. A. Terry referred to the death of Mr. Allen.

 

BROSELEY.

RUMMAGE SALE.- In aid of the coal fund for the poor, the Misses Potts and Miss Thorn promoted a rummage sale, which was held on Wednesday in the Town Hall, and proved a great success.

SCHOOL SERMONS.- On Sunday the annual sermons in behalf of the Church Sunday Schools were preached in the Parish Church by the Rev. J. T. Halke, M.A., late vicar of Withington. The musical portion of the services was rendered by the choir with their usual excellent taste and expression, under the capable direction of Mr. W. H. Griffiths (choirmaster). Miss Hilda Watkis, L.R.A.M., presided at the organ.

DINNER.- The annual dinner in connection with the Association for the Prosecution of Felons was held on Wednesday at the Pheasant Hotel, when the treasurer (Mr. F. H. Potts) presided, and Mr. I. H. Onions occupied the vice-chair. About 30 sat down, and enjoyed the catering of Miss Beard and Mr. I. H Onions, The cloth removed, the Chairman proposed the loyal toasts, which were heartily drunk. The other toasts were “Bishop and Clergy,” proposed by Mr. W. Francis, and responded to by the, Rev. J. Marsden Edwards (in the absence of the Rev. G. F. Lamb through illness); “The Army, Navy, and Auxiliary Forces,” proposed by Mr. S. Hill, and responded to by Mr. Pant; and “The Town and Trade of Broseley”, proposed by Mr. P. Jones, and responded to by Mr. S. Hill; then followed the chief toast of the evening, “Success to the Association,” coupled with the name of the treasurer (Mr. F H. Potts), which was drunk with musical honours.

 

7th December 1907

BROSELEY.

MEMORIAL, SERVICE.- On Sunday evening the Rev Ralph Guy (Bishops chaplain) preached an excellent sermon in the Parish Church, during which he made special reference to the late Mr. W. Allen of Benthall, the deceased having been a regular attendant at Broseley Parish Church for some years. The musical portion of the service, including the anthem, “Come, now let us reason together, saith the Lord”, was admirably rendered by the choir, under the direction of Mr. W. H. Griffiths (choirmaster). The solo was undertaken by Mr. W. A. Garbett. As the congregation entered the sacred edifice the organist played “O rest in the Lord”, and, on leaving, the “Dead March”.

BURIAL, BOARD.- Councillor E. G. Exley presided at the meeting on Wednesday, where Alderman Prestage was unanimously re-elected chairman for the ensuing year.-Mr. P. H. Polls (clerk) reported that there was a balance of £8 13s. 7d. in hand. The fees received for the past quarter, £6 5s. 0d., were much below the average.

DISTRICT COUNCIL, Wednesday. -Present:- Councillors E. G. Exley (chairman), T. Doughty, J. Nicklin, T. Instone, and T. I. Griffiths, Messrs. F. H. Polls (clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor). L. Oakes (collector), and E. Abberley (water inspector).-Mr. Nicklin moved the re-election of Alderman Prestage as chairman for the ensuing year, a post which he had held so long and so ably filled.- Mr. Instone seconded his motion, which was carried unanimously.- The committees were all re-elected.- A letter was read from Mr. Herbert (sanitary inspector) stating that there was a case of scarlet fever in his house. The Broseley district was free from notifiable infectious disease.- The Clerk reported a balance of £500 in hand in the general district account, and on the water rate an adverse balance of £77. Cheques were required that day for £200.- Mr. Abberley reported that the water-mains and air-valves in the town were in good working order. The trustees of the Lady Forester hospital had decided to lay an extra main to he used in case of fire, the estimated rest of which was £23 8s. 6d.- Mr. Doughty asked if the firemen were insured.- The Clerk replied in the negative, stating that they were a Volunteer brigade.- Mr. Doughty: Suppose, they got hurt in a fire?- The Clerk observed that the Corporation would not be liable for any compensation.- Mr. Instone said he was of opinion that the firemen should insure themselves.

 

IRON-BRIDGE

FREE FOOTBRIDGE COMMITTEE.-A meeting of this committee was held last week; present:- Councillor R. F. Ayre (chairman), Alderman F. G. Beddoes, Councillors B. Maddox, J. W. Webster, and W. Roberts, Messrs. J. W. White, W. A. Woolley, T. C. Shingler, J. H. Owen, U. Owen, J. H. Jones, J. Potts, B. J. Wilkinson, and A. Collins (hon. sec.). The committee reported that since the public meeting, held in the Market Hall, several meetings had been held, inquiries had been instituted, and many points discussed in regard to the proposed bridge. Some two months ago the question of a traffic bridge was raised and brought before the notice of the committee. It was stated that the manufacturers and other persons were in favour of the larger scheme, and in consequence of these statements the committee resolved at their last general committee meeting to confer with those who were interested in, and desirous of, having a traffic bridge. The chairman called a meeting on the 4th of November in the schoolroom, Jackfield. Quite one hundred invitations were sent out, but only about 20 persons attended the meeting. Mr, Hamilton, on behalf of Lord Forester, expressed his approval of the larger scheme, and said that his lordship would do what he could to help it forward. Several manufacturers gave expression to their views, which were against the traffic bridge, stating that, under present circumstances, they could not see their way to undertake so costly a scheme; so after the Jackfield meeting it was thought advisable to return to the foot-bridge scheme. The committee had secured the services of a competent gentleman, Mr. J. Poate, C.E., Birmingham. He had prepared plans, and given the estimated cost of both traffic and foot bridges. The road bridge, he states, would consist of one span over the river 108 feet clear, with two side spans, the main girders to be 11 feet deep, and the side one 6 feet deep. A footway 4 feet wide on the one side, and a roadway of 17 feet; the bridge to be suitable to carry two railway waggons and a crowd of people at the same time. The estimated cost to be £2,550. The foot-bridge would be divided into three spans, with girders 74 feet long, each of a lattice type. The piers would consist of four steel columns; the footway to be 7 feet in the clear, and supported on girders and arch plates. The estimated cost, including contingencies and compensation to ferry owner, to be £1,500. Towards this amount there, was the Haynes legacy of £700 or thereabouts, and in addition several members of the committee, with members of the Council, had generously consented to subscribe, including the Mayor, who had promised £5, and Mr. Alderman Cooke £10. At present the amount in hand was practically £750, or one-half of the required sum. The committee recommended that collecting-books be supplied to the various works, to enable the working people to subscribe by instalments what they could afford to give.- The report, on the motion of Alderman F. G. Beddoes, was adopted unanimously.- It was resolved that the site of the foot-bridge should be near to the upper ferry, at a point on the Iron-Bridge side near to the Lloyds Gate, and on the Jackfield side near to the late Mrs Oswell's garden on the waste land belonging to Lord Forester.- The position was pointed out to be most favourable, and would connect two roads directly. on each side of the river, and would be the required height. -An appeal by circular to the general public their financial support was decided upon, and it hoped that a liberal response will be made.

 

21st  December 1907

BARROW.

FUNERAL.- On Wednesday the interment, took place at the cemetery, Barrow, of Mr. George Pritchard, who died from consumption at the age of 37. The deceased was formerly on the Liverpool Police Force, and had served over 15 years. Rev. W. H. Wayne (rector of Willey) officiated. Among: those who attended were the widow of deceased, his three sisters (Mrs. Jane Andrews, Mary Andrews, and Harriet Walker of Liverpool), Miss Norrey, Mr. Fred Norrey. Wreaths were sent from the Marsh. Miss Franks, Miss Norrey, Mrs. Norgrove, and Mrs. Norrey (Wenlock).

 

IRON-BRIDGE.

THE SEVERN on Saturday was in flood. The land for miles round was under water, as also was the United football ground, a match having to be abandoned.

A DINNER was held on Thursday at the Station Hotel in connection with the Air-Gun Club. A large number enjoyed the excellent repast. Mr. W. T Chattaway presided, and after the cloth was removed the usual loyal and patriotic toasts were submitted Mr. H. Cornish proposed “Success to the Station Hotel Air-Gun Club”, and in doing so, congratulated the club on its unbeaten record, and expressed the hope that they would win the League Cup. (Applause.)- The toast, which was enthusiastically drunk was responded to by Mr. E. Rogers (captain).- Mr. T. Wilson proposed the health of the Chairman, and it responding, Mr. Chattaway promised to give a medal for the member who proved the best shot to the League competition. (Applause).

 

 

 

28th December 1907

BENTHALL

READING ROOM.- In connection with this room, which was started in the parish last September, Mr. Gerald G. P. Heywood (one of the vice-presidents) yesterday week presented an air-gun for the use of the club. Mr. Heywood explained the working of the gun to the assembled members, and the first shot was fired by the donor, who secured a bull’s eye. Subsequently most of the members had tries at the target, with varying success.- The President of the Reading Room (the Rev. W. A. Terry) proposed, in a short appreciative speech, a vote of thanks to Mr. G. Heywood for his kind gift.- This was seconded by Mr. H. Poster (hon. secretary), supported by Mr. R. Whitmore, and carried with applause. The Reading Room has met a long-felt need in the parish, and is greatly appreciated.

 

JACKFIELD.

GENEROUS EMPLOYERS.- Messrs. Maw and Company, Limited, have, with their characteristic kindness at this season of the year, presented to the whole of the, office staff, foremen, and others, a turkey, goose, fowl, or other seasonable gift.

FUNERAL.- The funeral of Mr. James Poole took place on Thursday. The first part of the service, which was choral, was conducted in Jackfield Church. The organist (Mr. F. C. Wilson) played two voluntaries, “O rest in the Lord” and the “Dead March” in “Saul”. After leaving the church, the long procession of mourners and friends, headed by the choristers, wended its way to the Broseley Cemetery, where the body was interred. The Rector officiated, and at the end of the service a hymn was sung. Mr. James Poole was a chorister in Jackfield Church for fully 36 years, and was beloved by all who knew him.

PETTY SESSIONS. -TUESDAY,

Before Messrs. J. E. Boulton (mayor), A. B. Dyas, D. L. Prestage, J. H. A. Whitley, E. W. Shorting, and G. D. Collins.

HEAVY SENTENCE.- Henry Potts, labourer, Jackfield, was charged with night poaching at Madeley, in a wood, the property of the Madeley Wood Company. Mr. H. R. Phillips prosecuted.- Herbert Lysons, gamekeeper, in the employ of Alderman W. J. Legge, stated that he was in a dingle about six o'clock in the evening under an elm tree on which there were five pheasants. Witness was unarmed, but had a retriever dog. Subsequently he saw the defendant come from a thick part of the wood towards the highway. He was carrying a dog, and was looking up to the trees. Witness stopped forward, and Potts put his gun up to his shoulder, saying, “Stand back, or I will blow your brains out”. Witness moved towards him, when he again threatened to shoot him. Witness had no doubt but that Potts was the man.-Defendant said he knew nothing about it.-The Mayor said, Potts would be sentenced to three months’ hard labour and to find sureties at the expiration of the three months not to offend again within one year.