—Exchange Street, Norwich, was first opened to the public. There was no communication, however, with St. Andrew’s Street, and it was not until April, 1829, that operations were commenced for the removal of the old buildings at the north end of the new thoroughfare. That portion of the street was opened to the public on May 21st, 1832; and public business was for the first time transacted in the Post Office erected there, on June 25th, 1832.
—The members of the Norfolk and Suffolk Institution, the new title by which the Norwich Society of Artists established in 1805 was known, celebrated the opening of their new gallery in Exchange Street by dining at the Norfolk Hotel, under the presidency of Mr. J. B. Crome, with Mr. Stark in the vice-chair. The first exhibition in the new gallery was opened on the 13th, and was visited in state by the Mayor, Sheriffs, and Aldermen.
26.—Mr. George Grout was elected freemen’s Sheriff at Norwich.
SEPTEMBER.
1.—Mr. William Martin, a native of Norwich, and the painter of the two large pictures in St. Andrew’s Hall—“The death of Lady Jane Grey” and “Queen Eleanor, Consort to Edward I.,” was lodging in indigent circumstances at the Trowel and Hammer public-house, St. Stephen’s, whence he issued a circular on this date, asking for subscriptions for two engravings—“Interior of an English Cottage Home” and “Children going to bed.” The Corporation, on February 24th, 1829, voted him a grant of 100 guineas.
12.—Died at his seat at Terrington, near Lynn, in his 91st year, Sir Andrew Snape Hamond, Bart., a post-captain in the Royal Navy, formerly Lieutenant-Governor of the Province of Nova Scotia, and subsequently Commodore and Commander-in-Chief in the River Medway. He was many years Comptroller of the Navy, twice member of Parliament for Ipswich, and one of the Brethren of the Trinity House.
29.—The ceremony of swearing in the Sheriffs of Norwich was performed at the Guildhall, amid a scene of great disorder. The windows of the lower court had been screwed down, to prevent persons entering by that way before the arrival of the magistrates. The court was crowded, the heat intolerable, and the Mayor (Mr. Thurtell) ordered the windows to be broken. Upon the Sheriffs-elect, Mr. Stevenson and Mr. Grout, presenting themselves, the latter was objected to, on the ground that he was not a freeman; and Mr. Stevenson declined to serve unless he received legal indemnity from his colleague. The Recorder (Mr. Alderson) disposed of the legal difficulty in Mr. Stevenson’s case, but the uproar was so great that an adjournment had to be made to the Aldermen’s Chamber, where the Town Clerk administered the oath to Mr. Grout, notwithstanding a protest by Col. Harvey. At a meeting of the Common Council, on October 2nd, a notice signed by eight of the “Purple and Orange” Aldermen was read, intimating that any act done by the Council would not be valid, as one of the Sheriffs was improperly elected. They therefore declined to attend the meeting. The Mayor complained that he was being set at defiance, and threatened to appeal to a higher power. On November 8th a motion was made in the Court of King’s Bench, to show cause why an information in the nature of a quo warranto should not be filed against Mr. Grout, to show by what authority he exercised the office of Sheriff; the Court granted a rule nisi. On February 24th the Corporation unanimously conferred on Mr. Grout the freedom of the city. The case, after being several times before the Court, was finally disposed of on June 28th, 1830, when Mr. Justice Bailey delivered judgment, and said that the Court were of opinion that it was essential to the validity of election to the office of Sheriff that the individual chosen should be a freeman. Judgment of ouster was therefore entered. Retaliatory proceedings were taken in the Court of King’s Bench by the other political party against Mr. Alderman Patteson for holding the office of Treasurer of the city, and against Mr. Alderman T. S. Day, for acting as Corn Inspector. A rule nisi was obtained against Mr. Patteson on May 30th, 1829, and was made absolute on July 4th, after that gentleman had resigned the treasurership.
29.—The 6th Inniskilling Dragoons marched from Norwich for Chesterfield and Manchester.
OCTOBER.
6.—A troop of the 12th Lancers arrived at Norwich, from Canterbury.
7.—Died, aged 72, at New York, Mr. John B. Murray, eldest son of Dr. John Murray.
9.—Died, aged 74, at his residence, in Carlow, Major John Beevor, formerly of the 9th Dragoons, and for 30 years inspecting-officer of Yeomanry Cavalry in the districts of Waterford and Wexford. He was second son of Sir Thomas Beevor, of Hethel.
11.—The Norwich Corn Exchange, “one of the finest edifices of its kind in Europe,” was opened to the public. “Mr. Riches, merchant, of Norwich, bought of Mr. Riches, of Thorpe, the first sample of corn (barley) in the new building, for which he gave 18s. 6d. per coomb.” A commemorative dinner was held in the Exchange on November 28th, at which Mr. T. W. Coke, M.P., presided, supported by the High Sheriff (Sir W. B. ffolkes), Lord Lyndock, Lord Neville, Lord Suffield, Mr. Edmond Wodehouse, M.P., and other prominent personages.
18.*—“The proprietors of the Norwich Cloth Establishment have taken a contract for supplying the two battalions of Portuguese troops lately formed at Plymouth out of the refugees from that distracted country with jackets and trousers. These troops are intended to accompany the young Queen of Portugal, whither she will shortly proceed to claim the Crown.”
25.*—“The portrait of Mr. Alderman Francis, painted by Lane, was hung in St. Andrew’s Hall, Norwich, this week.”
—*“Died lately at Wimbotsham, near Downham Market, aged 52, Mr. William Henry Ware, many years composer of music, and director of the orchestra at Covent Garden Theatre, and one of the masters of the Royal Academy, Woolwich.”
29.—Died, at his son’s house, in Southampton Street, Bloomsbury, aged 79, Mr. Luke Hansard, many years printer of the Journals, private Bills, &c., of the House of Commons. “He was born at Watton, served his apprenticeship with Mr. White, printer, of Norwich, was afterwards an assistant of the late Mr. John Crouse, who originally established the Norfolk Chronicle in the year 1761, and had ever since been a much attached and valued friend of all his successors.”
NOVEMBER.
3.—The following curious incident was recorded as having taken place at Tunstead on this date. A Chelsea pensioner was about to be married to a widow, and “early in the morning the parties, accompanied by three witnesses, repaired to the cross-ways in the road a short distance from the village, where the intended bride crossed the road in puris naturalibus, and was received on the opposite side by the bridegroom, who entertains the idea that by the due performance of this ceremony he is discharged from all liability of paying the debts of the former husband.”
4.—Lord Neville, rector of Berghapton, sent a letter to the Norfolk Chronicle, denying a statement made by Mr. Cobbett, at a dinner at Maidstone, that he (Lord Neville) was “rector of a parish in Norfolk and at the same time enjoyed half-pay as a captain of Dragoons.” His lordship wrote: “I admit being rector of a parish in Norfolk, but I assure you upon my word that a considerable time before I took orders I resigned my commission, and consequently ceased from that time to enjoy either half or full pay.”
9.—The King’s letter, “authorising collections to be made for the building and enlarging of churches and chapels (instead of by briefs, as formerly),” was read in the churches in the city and county.
15.—A hamper conveyed by Messrs. Marsh and Swan’s London van from King’s Lynn, was found to contain the dead body of a young woman, supposed to have been taken from a grave at Lynn.
—*“Mr. Suckling’s beautiful yacht, the Marmion, has lately arrived at Buckenham Ferry, to be laid up for the winter. In December last she was laid down and built upon his estate at Woodton, under his immediate plans and directions, and in May last dragged from thence upon a sledge to the water’s edge at Carrow Bridge, to the surprise of the natives, who assembled in great number. She dropped down the river and boldly cleared out to sea, on her passage to London, which voyage, though blowing very fresh, she performed much to the satisfaction of those on board. She afterwards went to Calais, made two journeys to Holland, and sailed many times up the canals.”
29.—Mr. B. H. Norgate was elected assistant-surgeon of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, in the room of Mr. Henry Carter, previously elected surgeon, on the resignation of Mr. Martineau.
—Died at his house in St. Giles’ Street, Norwich, aged 72, Mr. John Hammond Cole, an Alderman of the Great Ward of Mancroft. He was Sheriff in 1797; Mayor in 1811; Receiver of Stamp Duties, Treasurer of the Boys’ and Girls’ Hospital, and of the Norwich Dispensary, and Treasurer and Secretary of the Norfolk and Norwich Savings Bank.
DECEMBER.
1.—Died at New York, aged 64, Mr. James Valentine Murray, third son of Dr. John Murray, of Norwich.
4.—The Norwich Brunswick Constitutional Club, “for preserving the integrity of the Protestant Constitution, and upholding the principles which placed the House of Brunswick upon the Throne of these realms,” was formed at a meeting held at the Norfolk Hotel.
6.—Died, aged 48 years, Capt. Sir William Hoste, Bart, R.N., K.C.B., eldest son of the Rev. Dixon Hoste, of Godwick Hall. “He was among the many brave youths from this county on board the Admiral’s flagship, the Vanguard, at the memorable battle of the Nile.”
8.—Master W. R. Grossmith, “the celebrated young Roscius, 9½ years old,” gave, in the Concert Room, St. George’s, Norwich, his entertainment, “consisting of rapid transitions of dress and characters.”
19.—Died at Yarmouth, aged 79, Mr. John Watson, Mayor of that borough in 1785. In 1799 he was elected Town Clerk, and resigned the office in 1822.
20.*—“Died, last week, at Lakenham, aged 45, Mr. Roger Jean, an eminent miniature painter, leaving a wife and seven children to lament his loss. Although Mr. Jean possessed very superior abilities as a miniature painter, owing to his long-continued illness his latter days were embittered by most distressing privations, and his wife, a well-educated woman, is left in very destitute circumstances.”
24.—The weather on Christmas Eve was described as “very close and warm.” The whole month was remarkable for its unusual mildness.
26.—Mons. Batty opened his Circus at the Pantheon, Ranelagh Gardens, Norwich.
30.—A “grand match of cocks” was fought at the New Inn, Aylsham, between gentlemen of that town and of North Walsham. The sport was continued on the 31st. North Walsham won 9 battles out of 12. The winning cocks were “fed” by Stafford, of Norwich.
1829.
JANUARY.
1.—Died, aged 76, Mr. Philip Meadows Martineau, one of the surgeons of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital from its foundation in 1772. “Pre-eminently successful as an operator, and most intimately acquainted with the theory of his profession, Mr. Martineau was celebrated in every part of England and throughout Europe. He directed his attention to cases of lithotomy with distinguished success.” He was buried at Thorpe, on January 9th.
10.—Cockey Lane, Norwich, was for the first time accorded its new designation, “London Street.”
14.—At the Norfolk Quarter Sessions, it was ordered that the east end of Norwich Castle, including the south end buttress, be put into proper repair, at an expense not exceeding the sum of £600.
17.*—“The sales at Garraway’s and the Auction Mart of landed estates in Norfolk last year exceed £110,000. The principal Norfolk estates sold in London during the last 12 months were as follow:—Wellington Hall, 1,724 acres, with house, gardens, &c., £41,000; Clippesby Hall 1,100 acres, with house, &c., £48,110; Mr. Watson’s estate at Saxlingham, 137 acres, with house, &c., £7,000.”
21.—A meeting of the medical practitioners of the city and county was held at the Guildhall, Norwich, “to petition the Legislature upon the increasing difficulties of pursuing anatomical studies in the public schools.”
31.—Mr. Alexander Thurtell, nephew of the Mayor of Norwich, was returned fourth wrangler at Cambridge. He was of Caius College, and was educated by Mr. Bowles (formerly of Norwich Theatre), at the Academy, Yarmouth.
—Norwich Theatre was opened for the season. Mons. Decour, a “strong man,” exhibited feats of strength and juggling.
—A disastrous fire occurred on the premises of Messrs. Trivett and Cozens, ironmongers, Exchange Street, Norwich. The 12th Lancers rendered efficient service in saving adjoining property. The Norfolk Chronicle Office narrowly escaped destruction.
FEBRUARY.
7.*—“So great is the panic in Lynn in the minds of the credulous with reference to the resurrectionists, that an individual who was consigned to the grave had round his coffin 13 iron hoops, and in the lid 50 screws.”
9.—A brig of 100 tons burden was “raised” at Mr. T. Batley’s staith at Carrow, Norwich. Upon the stem of the vessel was the inscription: “This is the first seaborne vessel that was ever built in Norwich. Began January, 1829, by Thomas Batley, and the first bolt was driven by C. Brown, Esq., Alderman of this city.” The vessel, which was named the Spring (Capt. Brook), was launched on May 28th. She had two masts, brig-rigged fore and schooner-rigged aft, and was intended for the general trade.
11.—Downham Theatre was opened by Mr. Smedley, in consequence of Mr. Fisher declining that portion of the circuit. “The painting of the ceiling, together with the panelling and ornaments in front of the boxes and gallery, have a very lively effect, and give it the appearance of a neat and modern theatre.”
14.—Heigham House, Norwich, was opened under the management of Mr. Jollye, formerly of Loddon, as a retreat for insane persons.
—An extraordinary marriage took place at Yarmouth. A boy, 15 years of age, the son of a respectable tradesman, absconded from his home and married a Mrs. Bull, a widow, aged 43, the mother of five children. “The fact was ascertained by application to the Rev. Thomas Browne, D.D., at Gorleston.”
15.—Lieut.-Col. Harvey conveyed to London a petition signed by 8,920 of the inhabitants of Norwich against the claims of the Roman Catholics. It was presented in due course in the House of Commons. On the 17th the Mayor and Aldermen, and the members of the Common Council of Norwich, adopted petitions in favour of the Roman Catholic claims.
21.—The “African Roscius” (known also by the name of Keene) appeared at Norwich Theatre as Othello. On subsequent evenings he performed the parts of Mungo (“The Padlock”), Oroonoko, Bajazet (“Tamerlane”), Rolla (“Pizzaro”), Alambra (“Paul and Virginia”), and Sambo (“Live when you can”).
28.*—“In the Court of Exchequer, last week, an information was filed against Robert Hudson, a paper manufacturer, of Norwich, for arrears of duty on a quantity of paper removed from a mill at Lyng without bearing the Excise mark. A verdict was returned for the Crown—damages, £300. The defendant is now in prison on a former conviction for penalties to the amount of £1,000.”
MARCH.
5.—The Westacre Staghounds had a remarkable run. The meet was at Watton, where the stag was turned off, and led a field of between 60 and 70 to Ovington, Shipdham, Whinbergh, over Reymerston Common, touching Southbergh, to Carbrooke, crossing Griston Common, to Thompson Heath. Here there was a short check, which was hit off in good style, and away they went for Tottington, on to Wretham, leaving the decoy on the left, thence to Kilverstone and Brettenham Heaths, to the left of Croxton, and to the River Ouze, which was crossed between Santon Downham and Thetford. Only nine horsemen forded the river; they dashed away across the open in the direction of Barton Mills, where another check occurred. They then passed over Wangford Warren to Lakenheath Common, straight for Bramber Hall, and the stag was killed in the plantations of Mr. Edward Bliss, after a run of three hours and three-quarters. (The hounds were advertised to be sold at the first Newmarket meeting, April 22nd.)
22.—Died at Diss, aged 105 years 6 months, Mrs. Philip Bacon.
23.—A prize-fight took place at Thurton, between Garratt, the Suffolk champion, and Mendham, the Norfolk Youth, for £10 a side. They were also backed for £25. Mendham was seconded by Ned Painter, and Garratt by Wigg. Thirty-five rounds were fought in 1 hour 25 mins. Garratt was the winner. “The crowd to view the fight was very large, and consisted of a due mixture of the sexes.”
APRIL.
8.—Died at Shotesham, Mr. Robert Fellowes, aged 87. He was for many years an active magistrate of the county, and represented Norwich in Parliament from 1802 to 1806.
13.—Two troops of the 7th Dragoon Guards, under the command of Capt. Nugent, arrived at Norwich, to replace the 12th Lancers, ordered to York.
18.—The execution took place on Castle Hill, Norwich, of John Wood (41) and Thomas Butler (29), for sheep stealing, and of Richard Everett (28), for horse stealing. “The number of women present amounted to at least two to one man, and, what was yet more remarkable, crowds of women brought young children with them.”
20.—Miss Foote, of Drury Lane Theatre, commenced an engagement at the Theatre Royal, Norwich, where she appeared as Letitia Hardy (“The Belle’s Stratagem”), Variella (“The Weathercock”), Rosalind, Zephyrina (“The Lady and the Devil”), Violante (“The Wonder”), Arinette (“The Little Jockey”), Beatrice, and Maria Darlington (“A Roland for an Oliver”).
21.—A vessel of 313 tons was launched from the yard of Messrs. H. Fellows and Co., Yarmouth.
23.—A new suspension bridge, erected over the Bure at Yarmouth, by Mr. Robert Cory, jun., was opened with much ceremony. The contractor was Mr. Godfrey Goddard. (See May 2nd, 1845.)
MAY.
1.—Mr. T. O. Springfield was elected Mayor of Norwich.
3.—The freedom of Norwich was conferred upon Mr. Edward Hall Alderson, barrister-at-law, eldest son of Mr. Robert Alderson, Recorder of the city.
—The Norwich Corporation voted a grant of £100 to the Norfolk and Suffolk Artists’ Society, “to assist in enabling them to enlarge their premises and to purchase casts and models, with the view to the further promotion of the fine arts in this part of the country.”
—An illuminated clock was ordered to be placed “on the top of the Guildhall, next the Market Place.”
14.—The body of a woman named Gooderham was found murdered in Broome Lane, Diss. After an inquiry lasting six days, during which 41 witnesses were examined, the Coroner’s jury returned a verdict of “Wilful murder against some person or persons unknown.”
20.—Died, aged 71, Mr. John Dawson Downes, of Lowestoft (formerly of Yarmouth), “a gentleman well known to the sporting world, and in this county as the only constant follower of that noble diversion, hawking.”
23.*—[Advt.] “Cocking: A double-day’s play of cocking will be fought between the gentlemen of Swaffham and Wisbech, on Wednesday, May 27th, at the Coffee Pot Inn, Downham, for £10 a battle and £50 the odd. Feeders: Leech for Swaffham; Foster for Wisbech.”
28.—The bounds were beaten at Lynn by the clergyman, churchwardens, and officers of the parish, accompanied by 236 boys from the Free School. “The place of rendezvous was St. Margaret’s church, where, on entering, each boy was supplied with a long white-wand. At ten o’clock the procession set out for the shore of the harbour, and at the expiration of two hours returned again to the same place, having performed the usual evolutions of ducking, tubbing, and other ceremonies peculiar to such occasions. The boundaries of this place appear to terminate in some very singular points, as the parties had to enter several houses by the door and make their exit through the window. At the close of the circuit, the boys were all seated in the Crown Yard and regaled with a large plum bun and half a pint of beer each, and the elders dined at the Crown Tavern.”
31.—At Norwich Theatre was performed, for the first time, a tragedy written by Mr. J. Smith, entitled, “Ralph de Bigod, Earl of Norwich.”
JUNE.
3.—The old City Gaol, situate opposite the Guildhall, with a frontage of 70 feet and a depth of 156 feet, was sold by auction to Messrs. De Caux, Son, and Pratt, for £1,570; and the old Bridewell, in St. Andrew’s, with a frontage of 64 feet and a depth of 100 feet, was purchased on the same date by Mr. J. Curr, for £1,140.
9.—Miss Paton appeared at Norwich Theatre as Rosetta (“Love in a Village”). Her other impersonations during her engagement included Rosina (“The Barber of Seville”), Susanna (“The Marriage of Figaro”), Mary Copp (“Charles the Second”), Roxalana (“The Sultan”). Miss Paton cleared £140 at her benefit performance.
15.—At an assembly of the Norwich Corporation, the retiring Mayor (Mr. Thurtell), in replying to the customary vote of thanks, complained that he had been repeatedly insulted during his year of office. “I have been attacked by a bulldog,” he said, “and the yap has been continually barking at my heels, and language has been applied to me that would disgrace Billingsgate itself.”
16.—Guild Day at Norwich. Mr. T. O. Springfield was sworn in as Mayor. Great confusion was caused by an altercation between Mr. Thurtell and Mr. Crisp Brown. The Guild feast was held at St. Andrew’s Hall, and a ball took place at the Assembly Rooms.
18.—The Rev. H. R. Bowles (formerly of Norwich Theatre), master of the Yarmouth Academy, was entertained at luncheon at the Black Lion Tavern in that town, and presented by his former pupils with a silver salver weighing 84 ozs. In his reply, he said that far different pursuits had occupied his earlier years, but for twenty years he had never been absent a day from his school-room for pleasure.
29.—The annual cattle fair held at Shipdham, on St. Peter’s-day, in accordance with the terms of a charter granted by Henry III., was this year revived.
JULY.
1.—Died at his house in Surrey Street, Mr. Hammond Fisk, aged 70, Sheriff of Norwich in 1823.
11.*—“Died lately, at Keel Hall, Staffordshire, aged 78, Mr. Walter Sneyd, formerly M.P. for the borough of Castle Rising, and many years Colonel of the Stafford Militia.”
—Died at Hanworth, Mr. J. Hicks, formerly of his Majesty’s Navy, and Provost-Marshal-General of England, aged 69.
13.—A two days’ cricket match commenced on the Norwich ground, between Norfolk and Suffolk, for £50 aside. Fuller Pilch played for Suffolk, and William and Nathaniel Pilch for Norfolk. Norfolk, 53—82. Suffolk, 59—59. The return match commenced at Bury on July 23rd. Suffolk, 102—16. Norfolk, 91—26.
15.—At Norwich Quarter Sessions, Mr. William Day was elected Treasurer of the city, on the resignation of Mr. J. Patteson.
—A public dinner was given to Mr. Alderman Thurtell, by his political friends, “in testimony of their appreciation of his honourable, impartial, and upright conduct in the discharge of the duties of the office of Mayor during the past year.”
18.—Madame Vestris appeared at Norwich Theatre for the first time, in the part of Madame Germance (“Home, sweet Home”), and Justine (“The Rencontre”). She afterwards assumed the characters of Elizabeth (“Sublime and Beautiful”), Victoire (“The Invincibles”), Lady Bell (“Know your own Mind”), Apollo (burletta of “Midas”), Laura (“Sweethearts and Wives”), Phœbe (“Paul Pry”), Letitia Hardy (“The Belle’s Stratagem”), and Don Giovanni.
27.—Great discontent was manifested by the Norwich weavers. At a meeting held at the Ranelagh Gardens on this date, the operatives petitioned the Mayor to use his influence to prevent manufacturers giving out work at reduced prices to persons in the country. On September 1st the weavers stopped the carriers’ carts and searched for country-made goods. Men in disguise entered houses and took work from the looms, under pretence that it had been done below the scale prices. At a meeting at Ranelagh Gardens on October 5th, the manufacturers and operatives drew up a form of agreement, in which the prices were scheduled. At the end of the month many unemployed weavers paraded the streets, headed by a muffled drum and a shuttle bound in crope. The Court of Guardians on December 1st appointed a committee to advise as to the best means of alleviating the wants of the people. During the week commencing December 14th there were numerous meetings of operatives, and an attack was made on Mr. Athow’s house. Detachments of the 7th Dragoon Guards patrolled the streets. On December 17th a number of Norwich weavers visited Saxlingham and destroyed a great quantity of silk and materials; and in the following week several disguised men broke into the house of William Springhall, Boatswain’s Call Yard, St. Augustine’s, cut work from his looms, and shot at him with a pistol. He received severe wounds in the body, and a reward of £100 was offered by the Corporation for the apprehension of his assailants.
AUGUST.
6.—A cricket match, between the Marylebone and the Norfolk Clubs, commenced on the Dereham ground. “Lord Suffield, president of the county club, with Lady Suffield, was present, and 20 or 30 gentlemen’s carriages were on the ground, whilst hundreds of spectators were gathered around.” Scores: Marylebone, 64-78; Norfolk, 95-48.
10.—Miss Paton re-appeared at Norwich Theatre for one night, as Agnes (“Der Freischutz”) and Diana Vernon (“Rob Roy”).
11.—Died, Mr. Richard Gurney, of the Bowling Green Inn, Norwich, aged 48. (The “retired coachman, with one leg,” in “Lavengro.”)
13.—At the Norfolk Assizes, at Norwich, before Mr. Baron Garrow, Ireland Watts and Robert Watts were charged on an information filed by the Attorney-General, with obstructing Custom-house officers in the discharge of their duty. Capt. De Lafosse, the officer at Mundesley, traced contraband goods to the house of the defendants at Antingham. Having obtained a writ of assistance, he proceeded to the house with Lieut. Lee, several of the coastguard, and a peace officer. Admittance was demanded, and the defendants offered resistance. The captain then drew his pistol and threatened to fire, when Robert Watts bared his breast, exclaiming, “Fire, and be d---d.” Capt. De Lafosse, fearing he could not enter the house without bloodshed, withdrew his men. Mr. Kelly, for the defence, submitted that the captain’s authority did not permit him to search the house, but the special jury returned a verdict of guilty. In the Court of King’s Bench, in November, Mr. Kelly moved for a rule to show why there should not be a new trial, on the ground of the invalidity of the officer’s writ. Lord Tenterden held that this might be a question of great importance on public grounds, although in the individual case it was of little consequence. Rule granted. (There is no further record of this case.)
14.—At the Norwich Assizes, before Mr. Justice Parke, John Stratford (42) was found guilty of the murder of John Burgess, an inmate of Norwich Workhouse, by poisoning him with arsenic, on March 2nd. The execution took place on the roof of the new Gaol, on August 17th. After hanging an hour, the body was removed to the lower court at the Guildhall, where it was publicly exposed for two hours. Thence it was conveyed to the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, where Mazzotti, the modeller, took a cast of the head; and on the 18th Mr. Crosse commenced a series of anatomical lectures at the dissection of the body. A public subscription was started for the widow and family of the culprit.
25.—Mr. Charles Middleton and Mr. Samuel Shalders Beare were nominated for the office of freemen’s Sheriff. At the poll “the partizans of Mr. Beare announced upon their cards that they gave one shilling, but as soon as they found that their opponents were giving 2s. 6d., they outbid the ‘Purples’ by offering 2s. 6d. and a pot of beer. At three o’clock the ‘Purple and Orange’ party headed their opponents by 64. The ‘Blues’ went to work in purse and person, and placed themselves in a majority. The ‘Purples,’ finding they could not regain the advantage, at 5.30 informed the Mayor they did not wish to put their opponents to any further expense. Beare, 1,200; Middleton, 1,023.”
—A singular wedding took place at Fakenham. The bridegroom was Thomas Hudson, aged 79, and the bride Martha Frary, aged 21. They were followed to church by an unfortunate cripple, driving his curricle of dogs. Immediately after the hymeneal knot was tied, the bridegroom was torn from his fainting partner, thrown into an open cart, decorated with ram’s horns, and drawn through the principal streets of the town, amidst the firing of guns and the shouts and ridicule of the people.
29.—The Corporation of Lynn, according to custom, assembled at the Guildhall on St. John’s-day, and went to St. Margaret’s Church. “Groups of persons assembled at an early hour to witness the bearing of the branch to the house of the Mayor-elect, Mr. William Bagge.”
SEPTEMBER.
2.—The new Roman Catholic church of All Saints, Norwich, was opened by the Right Rev. Dr. Weld, Bishop of Amyclœ. “The ringing of the bells of St. Giles’ church on the occasion has been made the subject of a great deal more exultation on the one hand, and more lamentation and indignation on the other, than it really merits. The truth is that the bells were set out by the ringers upon speculation, and they were afterwards handsomely rewarded by the Catholics for their liberalism, the venality of which is disgusting enough.”
4.—The body of a woman, named Ann Coe, buried two days previously, in Fincham churchyard, was disinterred and stolen. “The churchyard is very near the turnpike road. The coffin, containing the shroud, was found in the churchyard, superficially covered with mold.”
8.—The Corporation of Yarmouth voted £1,000 towards the building of a church in that borough.
11.—An auxiliary of the “British Society for Promoting the Principles of the Reformation” was formed in Norwich. Under its auspices a great meeting was held at St. Andrew’s Hall, on October 21st, at which some disturbance took place.
21.—The Rev. Edward Valpy, D.D., resigned the appointment of headmaster of the Norwich Free Grammar School, which he had held since 1811.
23.—Mary McMullen, aged 61, walked 76 miles in 24 hours, on a measured half-mile of the Gaywood Road near Lynn. She performed the like feat at the Ranelagh Gardens, Norwich, on October 12th, and at North Walsham on March 8th, 1830. At the Ranelagh Gardens, on April 26th, 1830, she walked 100 miles in 24 successive hours.
OCTOBER.
8.—At Swaffham Races, Mr. Shearman “made a match to trot his noted bull a mile in 4½ minutes the day before the fair, and Mr. Gould is in treaty to purchase him to run over a short stage in the Stamford coach from Swaffham to Narborough. Mr. Farrer made a match with Mr. Cooke that he will produce a pair of working oxen that will beat any pair of horses he can produce to plough an acre of land, to take place the day before Swaffham fair.”
11.—Died in Union Place, Norwich, aged 102, Mr. Charles Kingaby. He left a widow, aged 98, and a daughter in her 70th year.
14.—The election of an Alderman to fill the vacancy caused by the death of Mr. Alderman Steward, on October 11th, resulted in the return of Mr. Marshall, who received 246 votes, against 207 recorded for Mr. Turner. “Both sides bought votes as fast as possible. From 30s. to £10 and £15 was given.”
—A severe gale occurred on the Norfolk coast, and several lives were lost. At Brancaster the preventive service picked up 291 casks of brandy and Geneva.
20.—A new vessel, the Indian Maid, was launched from the South Gates Dockyard, Lynn, and christened by Miss Ayre, daughter of one of the owners.
22.—The Norfolk and Norwich Horticultural Society was formed at a meeting held in the old Library Room, Norwich, under the presidency of Mr. Edward Lombe, of Great Melton. Mr. Lombe was elected president, Mr. R. Crawshay vice-president, Mr. John Kitson treasurer, and Mr. Elias Norgate secretary. The first show took place at the Swan Inn, on November 25th.
30.—A fire which occurred at Messrs. Squire, Hills, and Sons’ distillery, Norwich, did damage to the amount of £2,000.
31.—Mr. Thomas Cubitt, of Honing Hall, was presented by the yeomanry of the Tunstead and Happing Hundred with a silver vase, in recognition of his 45 years’ active service as a magistrate.
NOVEMBER.
9.—Died at Aldborough, aged 95, Mrs. E. Dyball, a remarkable woman, “who practised as midwife at Thurgarton near 50 years, and left 148 children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, besides 42 who have died” (sic).
17.—A 400-ton vessel, called the Duke of Cumberland, was launched from the dockyard of Mr. F. Preston, at Yarmouth.
18.—A gang of convicts, when travelling by coach from Lynn to London, made a desperate effort to escape. During the greater part of the journey the keepers stood over them with cocked pistols. On the coach arriving in town a London mob endeavoured to rescue the prisoners, “but the keepers presented so formidable an appearance that they were able to lodge the convicts in Newgate previous to their removal to the hulks.”
20.—Mr. Silvers, tide surveyor at Yarmouth, after a chase of five miles, captured on Breydon a 39 ft. smuggling galley, manned by a crew of nine hands. The smugglers effected their escape, but left behind them 283 half ankers of proof brandy, and about 6,000 lbs. of tobacco.
23.—The centre and south wing of Cromer Hall, the seat of Mr. Geo. Windham, was destroyed by fire. The damage was estimated at £12,000.
24.—During a severe gale off Yarmouth, a vessel foundered, and eight hands perished.
28.—The Rev. Thomas Kidd, M.A., Trinity College, Cambridge, was elected by the Court of Aldermen head master of the Free Grammar School, Norwich.
DECEMBER.
13.—Died at East Dereham, aged 85, Mr. James Philo, who had filled the office of parish clerk for fifty years. (“The dignified High Church clerk” in “Lavengro.”)
21.—The Crim. Con. action, Muskett v. Gurney, tried at the Thetford Assizes in 1818, was re-opened in the Court of King’s Bench, when further evidence was adduced on behalf of the plaintiff, to whom the jury awarded £2,000 damages. (May 17th, 1830: “Married, at St. Mary’s, Marylebone, Richard Hanbury Gurney, to Mary, only daughter of Mr. William Jary, of Burlingham.”)
—A meeting of 200 insurers in the Norwich Equitable Insurance Office was held at the Norfolk Hotel, Norwich, “for the purpose of taking into consideration the conduct and management of the funds of the society, and of dissolving the institution, with the view of the just redistribution of the funds, the formation of a new society under a more protective management and control.” Mr. Skipper was elected registrar and secretary of the new society.
26.—The pantomime, “Punch’s Festival, or Harlequin Christmas-box,” was produced at Norwich Theatre, under the superintendence of Mr. T. Hill, of Drury Lane Theatre. Mr. Thorne painted “a grand moving panorama, commencing with a view of the intended Port of Norwich (ships lying in the basin), leading through the valley of Thorpe, embracing Col. Harvey’s house (Thorpe Hall), Hinsby’s Gardens, and intermediate scenery to Lake Lothing, and concluded with the grand junction lock at Lowestoft in its present state.” The last scene, “Norwich a Port,” concluded with “a grand display of fireworks by Chevalier Southby, of the Royal Gardens, Vauxhall, and the London theatres.”
28.—Died at Lynn, Mr. Benjamin Smith, aged 93. “He was a man of rather eccentric habits. His gravestone had been placed in the churchyard of St. Margaret’s nearly ten years before his death, having only a blank for his age and day of decease. In his personal habits he was frugal almost to parsimony, but his benevolence was only bound by his means. He entirely rebuilt St. James’s almshouses for 12 widows, and an abode for the Reader; and erected and partly endowed another almshouse (called the Wesleyan almshouse) for six poor women.”
1830.
JANUARY.
1.—Died at Yarmouth, the Rev. H. R. Bowles, one of the ministers of the Unitarian chapel in that town. He was master of the Yarmouth Academy, and formerly an actor on the Norwich stage.
5.—Died at his house in St, Stephen’s, aged 86, Mr. James Keymer, city surgeon, and for upwards of fifty years surgeon and apothecary to the Norwich Bethel. He was known as “the father” of the Norfolk and Norwich Benevolent Medical Society (established in 1786), and “in his capacity of accoucheur introduced no less than 8,000 children into the world, and repeatedly attended three and four generations in succession.”
5.—At the Norwich Consistory Court, the suit, Meachen v. Carter, was tried. The parties lived at East Dereham, and the dispute arose about the use of a pew in the church. The defendant was proceeded against for “quarrelling, chiding, and brawling in church,” and the court, in giving judgment, declared him excommunicate, directed him to be imprisoned for three days, and condemned him in costs.
10.—During a severe storm from the N.N.E., the streets of Cley-next-the-Sea were inundated in places to the depth of six or eight feet, and several families were rescued from the upper windows of the houses. Many vessels were wrecked along the coast.
11.—The Relief Committee of the Norwich Court of Guardians determined to erect two looms in the Workhouse for the employment of persons who might apply for relief on the ground of not being able to obtain work. From these looms, at a subsequent date, work was deliberately cut and destroyed. On the 12th the riotous conduct of the weavers necessitated the calling out of the 7th Dragoon Guards; and on the 13th Mr. John Wright, one of the principal master manufacturers, had vitriol thrown into his face in St. Faith’s Lane. Mr. Wright, who was dreadfully injured, discharged a pistol at his assailant, who escaped. The Corporation offered a reward for the apprehension and conviction of the miscreant. Richard Nockolds, who was executed for arson on April 9th, 1831, confessed to the perpetration of the outrage. The distress continued throughout the winter, and on February 6th a meeting was held at the Guildhall, at which a relief fund was started, and nearly £3,000 raised. At the Norfolk Quarter Sessions, on March 10th, Lord Suffield, in his charge to the Grand Jury, suggested means for the alleviation of public distress. Mr. Cobbett came down to Norwich and lectured at Ranelagh Gardens on March 12th and 13th, on “The State of the Country.” Half-a-crown admission was charged, and “he pocketed about £50, which, all things considered, was about as much as he could well expect.” A common hall was held on March 17th, “to consider the unprecedently distressed situation of the country,” and Parliament was petitioned on the subject. Mr. W. J. Utten Browne, in the course of the proceedings, described Mr. Cobbett as “one whose name it was pollution to pronounce, and who had crawled up from the very dregs of the people to a slimy popularity.” In the report of this meeting the term “Liberal,” as used in a political sense, appeared for the first time. On May 15th the welcome announcement was made that some of the principal houses in Norwich had brought gros de Naples and other silks to such a state of perfection that they had a decided preference in the market, and that so numerous were the orders that scarcely a loom in this important branch of the weaving trade was unemployed.
16.—A great meeting of freeholders of the county was held at the Shirehall, Norwich, presided over by the High Sheriff (Mr. Andrew Fountaine), at which a petition was adopted for presentation to Parliament, praying for the repeal of the malt duties. (Meetings for the same end were held in all parts of the county.)
19.—A prize-fight took place at Thurton, between T. Riches, 11 st., and John Clarke, 15 st., for a purse of £10. The former was seconded by Ned Painter and Loveday, and the latter by Gale and Mike Fenn. Seventy-two rounds were fought in 1 hour 26 minutes. Riches won. “Hundreds of persons from Norwich padded it through the snow to witness this exhibition of science.”
19.—Mr. Marsham Elwin resigned the chairmanship of the Norfolk Quarter Sessions, and was thanked by the magistrates for the important services he had long rendered to the county. At the April Sessions Mr. John Weyland was elected in his place.
22.—A great fall of snow occurred in the Lynn district. The London coach ran into a drift at Tottenhill. The snow was almost up to the lamp-irons, and the vehicle was hauled out by teams of agricultural horses.
25.—Miss S. Booth appeared at Norwich Theatre as Widow Cheerley (“The Soldier’s Daughter”). Her other impersonations included Little Pickle (“The Spoilt Child”), Sally Scraggs (“The Englishman in India”); Mary (“The Innkeeper’s Daughter”), Aurelia Fairlove (“The Young Widow”); Lady Elizabeth (“The Day after the Wedding”), Priscilla Tomboy (“The Romp”), and Carline (“The Noyades, or the Maid of Venice”).
FEBRUARY.
8.—The roads in various parts of the county were rendered impassable by deep snow. The Fakenham coach was three days on its journey from London.
16.—Died, Dr. Robert Gooch, of Berners Street, London, librarian to the King. Dr. Gooch, who was in his 45th year, was born at Yarmouth, and married the eldest daughter of Mr. N. Bolingbroke, of Norwich.
26.—At three o’clock in the morning, John Brooks and William Brooks, awaiting trial in Norwich Castle for a highway robbery at Middleton, attempted to escape. They were confined in Bigod’s Tower, from the summit of which William Brooks endeavoured to lower himself by means of his blanket and rug. The improvised rope gave way, and Brooks fell a distance of 70 feet. His thigh, pelvis, left arm, and the whole of the ribs on his left side were broken, and a large tumour subsequently formed at the back of his head. Notwithstanding his terrible injuries, Brooks recovered, and at the Summer Assizes at Norwich was borne into court on the back of a warder to take his trial. It was stated that he was permanently crippled and quite disabled, but Mr. Justice Parke sentenced him to transportation for life.
27.*—“Private Flood, 7th Dragoon Guard’s, who was tried by court-martial for sleeping at his post at Norwich, was sentenced to receive 300 lashes, but his Majesty was graciously pleased, in consideration of the long imprisonment he had undergone, to remit the infliction of the punishment.”
MARCH.
20.*—[Advt.] “Dr. Johnson’s Hotel and Tavern, Bolt Court, Fleet Street. Anthony Beck, late of West Lexham, has taken the above house, and begs leave to inform his Norfolk friends and the public in general that he has used every exertion to render it worthy their support and patronage, and to assure them that he has paid due attention to that grand desideratum of Norfolk gentlemen, wines and spirits of the best quality, and good and well-aired beds. N.B.—Within 10 minutes’ walk of Smithfield Market and the Theatres.”
20.*—“We are informed that it is in contemplation to establish a pack of foxhounds in the western part of Norfolk, and that the kennel is to be at Litcham. In consequence thereof, the largest of the Kempstone hounds will be disposed of, but the Kempstone pack will not be given up. They will return to their original standard of small beagles, which are better adapted for elderly sportsmen, and will not hunt the same day as the foxhounds do.”
22.—A public meeting was held at Yarmouth, to protest against the determination of his Majesty’s Commissioners for Building Churches to erect a church there in opposition to the desire of the inhabitants. The imposition already in force of 2s. in the pound on houses and grounds, and a duty of 2s. a chaldron on coals consumed in the town, for the support of the church and chapel, was considered oppressive.
29.—The Common Council elections, which commenced at Norwich on this date, gave the ‘Orange and Purple’ party the ascendancy. “The trade in votes was unblushingly pursued on both sides, and the prices that were given towards the close of each day’s polling were of a heavy amount.”
30.—A steeplechase took place for a silver cup valued at 30 gs., from Fritton Church to Gorleston Church, a distance of four miles. Horses were run by Mr. Hector Munro, Mr. J. Fowler, Mr. S. Palmer, and Mr. Moore. The race was won by Mr. Munro’s entry. In the evening “the gentlemen of Mr. Munro’s hunt dined at the Bear Inn, and the company were much gratified with an excellent local and appropriate song, the production of Mr. Burton, of the Norwich Theatre Royal, and repeated by that gentleman in the course of the evening with increased effect.”
APRIL.
3.—At a meeting held at the King’s Arms Inn, East Dereham, it was decided to establish a pack of foxhounds in that part of the county, and to solicit landowners to preserve foxes.
—*“Last month a number of persons left North and South Lopham in waggons, on their way to embark at Liverpool for the United States of America. Between 100 and 200 persons are emigrating from these parishes, a considerable sum of money having been borrowed on security of the rates to defray the expenses of their passage (about £6 10s. per head), and to furnish each family with the clear sum of £5 on their landing at New York.”—[Advt.] “Emigrants to North America. The Preston, A.I., Thomas Woodthorp master, burden 300 tons, being well fitted with berths between decks, and having excellent accommodation for cabin and steerage passengers, will sail from Yarmouth, on the 15th inst., for Quebec. For passage or freight apply at the Counting-house of Isaac Preston, Esq.”
5.—At the Sheriffs’ Guildhall Court, Norwich, the only jury available were so long engaged in considering a verdict that nine solicitors in court volunteered to form a jury to try the next cause. Those sworn were Messrs. J. B. Daveney, H. Miller, G. Dye, R. Fickling, C. S. Gilman, Colman, Lawter, and Marston. Three laymen made up the requisite number. “The swearing of the jury of legal gentlemen caused much laughter, and what appeared most singular, after hearing evidence on both sides, they could not agree to a verdict, but recommended the withdrawal of a juror, which was done accordingly. Such a jury was never heard of before in Norwich.”
10.—John Simmons, aged 31, and William Lovet, 20, convicted at Thetford Assizes of burglaries at Thorpe, were executed on the Castle Hill, Norwich. Calcraft was the executioner. “After the execution the bodies were laid out in the mill-yard, and the different classes of prisoners were marched past.”
—*“A few weeks since a pike was caught in the North River, near St. Benet’s Abbey, which weighed 35 lbs., the extreme length of which was 49 inches. It measured 25 inches in girth. This astonishing fish, the largest ever caught in this county, was presented to his Majesty by Mr. H. N. Burroughes, of Burlingham.”
12.—Mr. Power, of Covent Garden Theatre, commenced a short engagement at Norwich Theatre, in the part of Dennis Brulgruddery. His other impersonations were Teddy the Tiler, Larry (“More Blunders than One”), Dr. O’Toole, Alessandro Massaroni (“The Brigand”), and Teague (“Honest Thieves”).
13.—At a meeting of the Norwich Paving Act Commissioners, a report was received from the Lighting and Watching Committee on the proposals of the agents of the Norwich Gas-Light Company for extending their works through the principal streets of the city. There were then four miles of main and service pipes supplied with oil gas; it was proposed to extend the pipes to twelve miles, and to supply “purified coal gas.” It was explained that the adoption of the proposal would result in the abolition of 900 old oil lamps and the substitution of gas lamps, at an increased annual charge of £500. At an adjourned meeting on April 30th, the scheme was adopted, and tenders were invited for carrying it into effect. In May the Norwich Gas Company purchased five acres of land near Bishop Bridge, on which to erect works for supplying the whole city with coal gas.
19.—Three troops of the 1st Royal Dragoons, under the command of Major Martin, arrived in Norwich, to replace the 7th Dragoon Guards. The headquarters of the regiment marched in on May 15th, from Manchester.
21.—Mrs. W. West, of Drury Lane, appeared at Norwich Theatre, as Portia. Her other parts included Edmond (“The Blind Boy”), Juliana (“The Honeymoon”), Mrs. Beverley, Ellen Enfield (“Falls of Clyde”), and Therese.
23.—The Norfolk Quarter Sessions petitioned the Lord Chancellor to order the removal of the Lent Assizes from Thetford to Norwich. On May 3rd the Corporation of Norwich adopted a similar petition.
—The birthday of King George IV. was celebrated for the last time.
MAY.
1.—Mr. John Angell was elected Mayor of Norwich.
3.—The Corporation of Norwich petitioned the House of Commons to introduce legislation for remitting the punishment of death “in all cases except murder, arson, burglary, highway robbery, and offences attended with violence.”
13.—The foundation-stone of the new Market House at Lynn was laid by the Mayor (Mr. William Bagge).
15.—William King was publicly whipped in Norwich Market Place for stealing a pewter pot.
—Died at his house, in Chapel Field, Norwich, aged 48, Mr. Joseph Gibson, jun., who served the office of Sheriff in 1821.
17.—A portion of the roof over the pit of the old Theatre Royal, Norwich, fell in with a tremendous crash. The workmen who had been employed there during the day had just left the building.
22.—The Rev. William Yonge, Vicar of Swaffham and Chancellor of the Diocese of Norwich, was presented by his parishioners with a piece of plate, of the value of £100, in recognition of his services as their resident minister during the period of 50 years.
JUNE.
2.—Mr. Burton, comedian at the Theatre Royal, Norwich, on the occasion of his benefit, “delivered Liston’s celebrated address, riding on the back of a real donkey.”
—Died, Mr. Jeremiah Lorkin, aged 77, “well known some years since to the then antiquaries of Norwich, an excellent classical scholar, and conversant with the science of numismatics.”
12.—A writ of mandamus was issued by the Court of King’s Bench, directing the Mayor and Corporation of Norwich, in compliance with the Act of Parliament, to elect twenty persons to be Guardians of the Poor. The Mayor (Mr. T. O. Springfield) had absented himself from the quarterly assembly of the Corporation on May 3rd. The transaction of public business was, in consequence, prevented, and at a special assembly a strong vote of censure was passed upon his worship for his conduct.
—A grey eagle was shot in Holkham Park. It weighed 9¾ lbs., measured 2½ inches round the smallest part of the leg, 3 ft from the point of the beak to the tip of the tail, and 7 ft. 2 in. from the tip of one wing to the tip of the other.
22.—Guild Day was observed in Norwich. It was stated that at the Cathedral the civic procession “passed along the rush-strewed pavement into the choir.” In consequence of the serious illness of the King, it was doubtful whether the Guild feast would be held. Mr. Angell, the Mayor-elect, issued 600 invitations, and until the guests actually assembled there was every probability of the abandonment of the feast.
27.—Intelligence was received in Norwich of the death of George IV. The news came six hours in advance of the mails, by an express despatched from the “Sun” newspaper office in London to the proprietors of the Norfolk Chronicle. The great bell of St. Peter Mancroft Church was tolled. On the 29th the High Sheriff (the Hon. George Milles) proceeded on horseback from the Norfolk Hotel, accompanied by a marshal and javelin-men, and other officials, to the Shirehall, where the accession of King William IV. to the Crown of these realms was proclaimed, and three cheers given. The King was proclaimed by the city authorities on the 30th, from the leads of the Guildhall. The procession round the city was headed by the band and kettledrums of the 1st Royal Dragoons, and five troops of the regiment, under the command of Lieut.-Colonel Somerset. “The Colonel politely declined the Mayor’s invitation to himself and his officers to take refreshments at the Guildhall after the ceremony, and the offer on the part of the Corporation to present the non-commissioned officers and men of the Royals with 10 guineas with which to drink his Majesty’s health was also declined, on the ground that the troops, in attending the civil authorities, had only performed a duty.” There were similar observances at Yarmouth and Lynn.
JULY.
5.—Mr. William Smith, M.P. for Norwich, in an address on this date, intimated to the electors that, in consequence of advancing years, he would not offer himself for re-election. He had represented the city twenty-eight years.
—A grand main of cocks (three double-days’ play) commenced at the Maid’s Head Inn, Norwich, between the gentlemen of Norfolk (Stafford, feeder) and the gentlemen of Suffolk (Nash, feeder), for £10 a battle and £100 the odd. Norfolk won by two battles a head on the main.
6.—A cricket match was played at Lord’s, between the Marylebone and the Norfolk clubs. The latter won by 24 runs. Marylebone, 43-78; Norfolk, 87-58. The return match was played on the Dereham ground, on August 19th and 20th, when Norfolk won by eight wickets. Marylebone, 62-44; Norfolk, 85-22.
15.—The funeral of the late King took place on this date. The day was observed in Norwich “with the complete features of the Sabbath.” The Corporation attended service at the Cathedral, services were held in other places of worship, and the great bell of St. Peter Mancroft tolled from eight o’clock till midnight.
24.—At the General Election which took place consequent upon the death of the King, Mr. Richard Hanbury Gurney, acceding to the urgent appeals of the “Blue and White” party in Norwich, consented to contest the city, in conjunction with Mr. Robert Grant. On this date he and his colleague made their public entry. Col. Peel, who sought re-election, and Vice-Admiral Sir Charles Ogle, Bart., the other “Orange and Purple” candidate, arrived on the 26th. The nomination took place on the 29th, and the polling commenced immediately afterwards. Throughout the election great excitement prevailed, and there was much rioting. The poll was declared on the 30th, as follows: Gurney, 2,363; Grant, 2,279; Peel, 1,912; Ogle, 1,762.
30.—The election at Yarmouth commenced, and, after a sharp contest, the poll was declared, on the 31st, as follows: The Hon. George Anson, 944; Rumbold, 944; Preston, 751; Campbell, 754.
31.—Lynn election took place, and resulted in the return of Lord George Bentinck and Col. Walpole, with 78 and 73 votes respectively. The unsuccessful candidate, Sir W. B. ffolkes, polled 8 votes.
AUGUST.
3.—Mr. T. W. Coke and Mr. Edmond Wodehouse, the outgoing members, offered themselves for re-election by the county. Mr. Coke issued an address on this date, asking the electors to support Sir William ffolkes, who stood as a third candidate. Mr. Wodehouse withdrew his candidature rather than involve himself and his supporters in a protracted contest, and the two first-named gentlemen were returned unopposed on the 6th.
7.—An inquest upon the body of a man accidentally killed was held in the porch of Earlham church by Mr. William Bell, Coroner.
9.—Mr. Samuel Bignold was elected one of the Sheriffs of Norwich.
—At an inquest held at Norwich on the body of John Morse, aged 38, who, during the city election was violently struck by a stone, and received such injuries that he died on August 6th, a verdict of wilful murder against some person or persons unknown, was returned, and the Court of Mayoralty offered a reward of £50 for a conviction.
—Mr. Kean appeared at Norwich Theatre in the character of Richard III., previous to leaving England for America, and to his final retirement from the stage. His other impersonations included Shylock, Othello, Sir Edward Mortimer, Sir Giles Overreach, and King Lear.
20.—Died at sea, on board the Lyra Government packet, in his 63rd year, Mr. Crisp Brown, Alderman of Norwich, who served as Sheriff in 1814, and Mayor in 1817. He had taken a voyage across the Atlantic for the benefit of his health, “but unhappily sank under the weight of affliction which oppressed his mind.”
21.—The King’s birthday was celebrated in Norwich.
25.—Died at his house on Tombland, Norwich, Mr. Henry Carter, aged 40, one of the surgeons of the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital.
31.—The election of freemen’s Sheriff at Norwich resulted in the return of Mr. Isaac Wiseman, with 1,124 votes, against 794 polled by Mr. Charles Middleton.
SEPTEMBER.
13.—The foundation-stone of a new episcopal chapel at Yarmouth, erected by voluntary subscriptions, from designs by Mr. Scoles, was laid by Mr. Barth, acting for the Bishop of Norwich.
21.—The Norwich Musical Festival opened with a grand concert, given at St. Andrew’s Hall. On the morning of the 22nd, sacred selections were given, and in the evening Mr. Mori conducted a concert. The “Messiah” was performed on the morning of the 23rd, and a concert took place in the evening. On Friday, 24th, selections of sacred music were given in the morning, and a fancy dress ball was held in the evening. The principal performers at the Festival were Madame Malibran, Madame Stockhausen, Master Phillips, Mrs. William Knyvett, Mr. Braham, Mr. Vaughn, Mr. Terrail, Mr. E. Taylor, and Signor De Begnes. Sir George Smart was conductor.
24.—A dinner was held at the Corn Exchange, Norwich, to celebrate the return of Mr. T. W. Coke, M.P., and Sir William, ffolkes, M.P.
25.—Mr. Braham appeared at Norwich Theatre as Henry Bartram (“Guy Mannering”).
OCTOBER.
2.—Malibran appeared at Norwich Theatre, in the character of Susanna (“The Marriage of Figaro”).
4.—A twin packet was launched from the shipyard of Mr. John Lubbock, at Wells-next-the-Sea. “She may justly be called a twin steamer, having two stems and two stern posts, with a tunnel passing through the middle ingeniously constructed so as to make her very stiff and of an easy draught of water. The vessel was built for the Aire and Calder Navigation Company.”
9.—A specimen of the Ossifragus, or small eagle, was shot at Barton Turf.
11.—The new Beer Bill came into operation. At Lynn “the day was kept as a jubilee by all the devotees of Sir John Barleycorn. Nearly 50 new houses were opened for the sale of beer, and drunkenness, rioting, and fighting were prevalent in many of the streets.”
23.—Mr. J. G. Johnson was elected assistant-surgeon at the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, in place of Mr. B. H. Norgate, appointed one of the surgeons.
—A county meeting was held at the Shirehall, Norwich, at which it was decided to petition Parliament for the repeal of the duty on malt. Great disorder was occasioned by an operative in the gallery exhibiting a placard bearing the words, “Englishmen, remember the expensive and bloody reign of George III.”
NOVEMBER.
2.—A common hall was held at the Guildhall, Norwich, for the purpose of petitioning the Legislature for the repeal of the duty on coals. The requisition had been signed wholly by persons of the “Purple and Orange” party, much opposition resulted, and the meeting dissolved in confusion.
10.—Mr. Edward Hall Alderson, son of the Recorder of Norwich, and Mr. John Patteson, son of the Rev. Henry Patteson, of Drinkstone, Suffolk, and nephew of Mr. Alderman Patteson, of Norwich, were appointed Judges of the High Court.
—On this date began the machine-breaking riots and stack firing, which gradually extended over the greater part of the county. The first fire occurred on the farm of Mr. J. Hill, of Briston, and a reward of £1,000 was offered by Sir Jacob Astley for the discovery of the offenders. On the 16th a mob destroyed the agricultural machinery belonging to Mr. John Girling, of Paston. The outrages became so numerous that the principal agriculturists got rid of their threshing-machines, and Col. Wodehouse, the Lieutenant of the County, issued a circular to the magistrates, requesting them to swear in special constables in every parish. At Melton Constable, on the 22nd, it was feared that an attack would be made upon the Hall, but the gentlemen in the neighbourhood went to the assistance of Sir Jacob Astley, and, meeting the rioters at Hindolvestone, seized the ringleaders and conveyed them to Walsingham Bridewell. Another mob assembled on the 23rd, and further arrests were made. The High Sheriff (the Hon. G. J. Milles), anticipating a further attack, despatched a messenger to Elmham Park, requesting the assistance of the gentlemen of the Norfolk Hunt, who had a meet there that day. The summons was immediately obeyed, and the horsemen, on arriving at Melton Constable, dispersed the rioters and made several arrests. The same day detachments of the 1st Royal Dragoons were sent from Norwich to do duty in the disturbed districts. At Norwich, on the 29th, the mob destroyed the sawmills of Mr. Calver, at New Catton, and the looms at Messrs. Willett’s factory in St. Martin’s, and broke the windows of the silk factory. The Sheriffs and the magistrates were in daily and nightly attendance at the Guildhall, and the Chelsea pensioners in the city, to the number of 200, were called out to assist in preserving the peace. On December 4th the county of Norfolk was included in his Majesty’s proclamation, offering a reward of £50 in respect of every person convicted of any outrage upon property. At the Norfolk Quarter Sessions, held on December 18th, two Committees were appointed, one for East and the other for West Norfolk, “to arrange and put the constabulary force on the most efficient footing to preserve the peace and protect the persons and property of the inhabitants of the county.” The thanks of the Court were given to the 1st Royals for their services, and to the Mayor and magistrates of Norwich for their cordial co-operation with the county authorities in the suppression of the disturbances.
20.—A whale, which had stranded upon a sandbank four miles below the harbour, was landed on the common staith at King’s Lynn. “It was placed on two trucks, dragged by six horses, and measured 21 ft. 3 in. in length, and 13 ft. 6 in. in circumference.”
25.—Mr. Robert Grant, one of the members for Norwich, having accepted the office of Judge Advocate under the new Administration, a fresh election was rendered necessary, and the writ was received on this date. The right hon. gentleman was returned unopposed on November 30th. He was afterwards appointed a Government Commissioner for the affairs of India.
DECEMBER.
6.—Died at his house, St. Giles’ Terrace, Norwich, Joseph Stannard, artist.
11*.—“On Sunday, November 7th, were deposited in Lakenham churchyard the remains of Elizabeth Watts, aged 24 years; and on the 28th of the same month a brother of the deceased died. He expressed the wish to be buried in the same grave with his sister. It was found that the grave had been opened and the body of the sister taken away. The shroud remained.”
11.—Died, in consequence of a fall from his horse, the Very Rev. Edward Mellish, M.A., formerly of Trinity College, Cambridge, rector of East Tuddenham, vicar of Honingham, and Dean of Hereford.
16.—Died at Costessey, Captain William Bolton, R.N., eldest son of the Rev. William Bolton, “and one of the few surviving Norfolk heroes who accompanied Nelson in his deeds of fame.”
18.—It was announced that Mr. Robert Alderson had resigned the Recordership of Norwich. Mr. Isaac Preston, Steward of the city, was, on the 23rd, appointed to fill the vacancy. Mr. Fitzroy Kelly was appointed Steward on February 3rd, and presented with the freedom of the city on April 29th, 1831.
—Official notification was given of the completion of the Gas Works at Bishop Bridge, Norwich, and of the extended service of gas in the city.
24.—A frost commenced on Christmas-eve, and became so intense that in the course of forty-eight hours the mill-streams and rivers were frozen over, and navigation between Norwich and Yarmouth was obstructed by ice. On the night of the 26th the thermometer fell to zero, “a degree of cold never before observed in this country.” On the 27th there was a sudden change, and on the 31st the thermometer stood at 48 degrees.
25.—Died at Lakenham Grove, aged 74, Mr. Joseph Gurney, banker, of Norwich. At the funeral in the Gildencroft burial-ground, “Mr. J. J. Gurney and Mrs. Fry offered up impressive prayers.”