 Driffield Times 1901+ |
DRIFFIELD AND WOLDS GENEALOGY |
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Trade Directories Parish Registers Driffield Parish Church Baptisms 1836-1850 (incomplete) A - L Driffield Parish Church Baptisms 1836-1850 (incomplete) M - Z Flamborough Marriages by Banns 1754-1779 North Burton (Burton Fleming) Parish Registers Wesleyan Baptisms 1837-1867 A-H only Monumental Inscriptions North Frodingham & North Dalton Cemetery MIs BMD Announcements &c from the Driffield Times Religion List of Priors etc of Monastic Establishments on the Yorkshire Wolds Driffield Congregational Church Religious Meeting Houses Licenced 1708-1808 The Blockhouses of Kingston Upon Hull (the persecution of local Catholics) WW1 Soldiers who died in WW1 with a connection to Driffield WW2 Social History History of the Driffield Post Office Trevor Malkin on the Driffield Railway Biographies &c They left Nafferton in 1863 - Where are they now? Some Old Driffield Schoolmasters Thomas Saulsbury Wright- one of yours? Celebrities of the Yorkshire Wolds Miscellaneous Useful links & Online family trees
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All the following are from the Driffield Times newspaper, unless stated otherwise. Publication dates are as given. If you have any in your files which are not included in these pages, please pass them on with the relevant sources, to be included and shared among the genealogy community. Thank you. January 5, 1901WEST LUTTON Wife sold for 5 shillings – In 1801 the following paragraph appeared in a York paper of January 17th – Lawrence Stephenson, of West Lutton, in the East Riding of this County, sold his wife, Jane, to William Servant, of Hovingham, for five shillings (who returned two shillings and sixpence to the former husband), in open market at New Malton, on Saturday last and delivered her in a halter on Monday last, at the market cross there. January 12, 1901A DRIFFIELD LAD IN TROUBLE A poor shabbily and scantily clad youngster named Charles H. WILSON was again brought up at the Hull City Police Court on Monday charged with stealing a lamp and two silk handkerchiefs, and was sent to Castle Howard Reformatory for five years January 12, 1901 HOOLIGANISM William WRIGGLESWORTH, labourer, and Albert WRIGGLESWORTH, groom, were summoned by Sergt WILKINSON, but did not appear, for creating a disturbance in the public street at Driffield on Saturday night, the 5th inst. They had struck at a man whose face was covered with blood and were otherwise causing a disturbance. A fine of 10s and costs was imposed. January 19, 1901BESWICK Another resident of this place has passed to the great majority in the person of Mr Robert FENTON. His kind and straightforward manner, as well as many social and excellent traits in his character, had won for him a large circle of friends. Perhaps he was best known by his connection with the thrashing machine business, and we think it could be said of him that he had made and used his own thrashing machine, four-wheeled dandy horse, bicycle, &c. These were in the early days of steam thrashing machines as well as bicycles. He was well known as a tough debater, and would, if the least chance presented itself, bring the lash across his opponent with withering force. He never paraded his attainments before the public, but to hear him sing, “Old Dog Tray,” “Hard times come again no more,” &c., was indeed a treat. His poetry, written in his younger days, was only recited to the privileged few. Perhaps he stood out above his fellows as a strong and intelligent mind, of temperate habits, witty, inventive, original, and practical, was good and helpful to those whose “hard ups” as he would oddly put it, were of their own manufacture. We have no doubt but his memory will long be cherished by his neighbours and friends at home and abroad. He was interred at Beswick, January 12th February 2, 1901 DRIFFIELD ROUNDABOUT PROPRIETOR’S MISTAKE At the Scarborough County Police Court, on Thursday, William Shipley, “roundabout” proprietor, appeared to answer a summons charging him with having used a locomotive on the highway at Cayton without a license from the North Riding County Council. The police evidence was that the engine was drawing six waggons laden with roundabout paraphranalia. Defendant, who had recently had his roundabout at Scarborough was on his way from that town to Driffield. Defendant, who said that he did not know that he was travelling in the North Riding, was fined 10s including costs February 2, 1901DRIFFIELD BOARD OF GUARDIANS PREPARING FOR THE END A singular case was reported from Hutton Cranswick by the Relieving Officer. An old man named David Tomlinson, aged 81 years, who had been in receipt of parish relief for some time, was stated to have in his possession the large sum of £4 9s 6d. How the secret eked out, was, that the old man lost the keys of the drawers wherein he kept his little hoard; he also accused someone of taking the sum from him. The result was that a joiner was sent for, but before forcing the lock he elicited that the above named sum should be in the drawer and on it being opened, there it was found all safe. The old man afterwards found the keys in an unexpected place. – The Rev R.C.O. O’Callaghan stated that he had learnt the old man had had various little gifts made to him from friends, and from these he had saved sufficient to prevent him being buried by the parish. It was stated that it was unusual to grant relief in such a case, but before taking decisive steps, it was decided that the rev gentleman see the old man. February 2, 1901BEMPTON THE STATION MASTER – Mr Wilkinson, who has acted in the above capacity at Bempton, has been removed to Lockington. This having become known in the village some little time ago, a memorial was got up and signed by most of the residents asking that Mr Wm Cowton, who has been the signalman, &c, at the station for nearly 25 years, be appointed to the office. This was favourably considered by the NER authorities and we are pleased to state that Mr Cowton has just entered on his duties as Station Master. Mr Cowton entered the company’s service in 1876 at Ulleakelf and before going to Bempton, acted as signalman at Wormald Green. March 23, 1901 On Tuesday an inquest was held at the Mechanics’ Institute relative to the death of Thomas BENNETT, labourer, aged 77 years, of “Stone Pit Lodge,” North End, Driffield. The deceased resided with his sister (who is very deaf) and an imbecile brother at the above place and it appears that about one o’clock on the morning of February 26th, he was coming down the stairs when he fell from the top to the bottom, and it was not until about four o’clock in the morning that he was found and even then Dr R.B. Eccles was not called in until five hours afterwards Thomas THORNTON, a retired warehouseman, living at Odsall, Bradford, stated that he was a nephew, by marriage, of the deceased, who did on Monday morning. From what he could gather from the sister, she took him something to drink on the night before the accident and he was then in bed; it was thought that he had got up to take the drink, and put the candle out, and then have fallen down the stairs. Dr R.B. Eccles stated he was called on the 26th February, at nine o’clock in the morning and found deceased in bed; it was thought that he had got up to take the drink, and put the candle out, and then have fallen down the stairs. Dr R.B. Eccles stated that he was called on the 26th February at nine o’clock in the morning, and found deceased in bed, very cold, pale and semi-conscious, and suffering from concussion of the brain. He had a big scalp wound 4 ½ inches long, exposing the bone, the right arm was extensively bruised, and there was a fracture at the neck of the thigh. There was a large quantity of blood on the third step. The man afterwards told him he fell from he top to the bottom of the stairs, where he lay for four hours bleeding. He attributed death to shock or exhaustion, either of which were sufficient to kill a man of that age. A verdict of “Accidental death” was returned. March 23, 1901 FIRE – About three o’clock on Thursday afternoon a fire was discovered on the premises of Mr Alfred Longbottom, aerated water manufacturer, Shady Lane. An alarm was at once given, and with all possible speed the fire brigade were in attendance with the hose, which was connected to the fire plug in the vicinity, and soon a copious supply of water was poured on the burning pile – the warehouse, &c, situate at the back part of the works. Although every effort was made, the roof gave way before the flames and bout a ton and a half of hay, together with a quantity of straw and a straw cutter, were destroyed. A large number of boxes stored in the buildings were also consumed. The brigade continued their efforts until the fire was extinguished. How it originated is not known. Mr Longbottom is insured with the Yorkshire Fire & Life Insurance Co. March 23, 1901 Elizabeth BISSEL, widow, was summoned by the School Board for not sending her boy to school. The woman said the boy would not go. A conditional order was made. March 30, 1901 A VOLUNTERY INMATE OF THE WORKHOUSE Our obiturary column last week contains the intimation of the death of a voluntary inmate of the Workhoue. In May 1897, Jas VALIANT applied to the Guardians for admission into the House on the grounds that he had no friends and would rather be there than in lodgings, with no one to care for him. A difficulty arose as the old man was possessed of he sum of £53, but he offered to hand over the bank book to the Guardians on condition that he was given admission. Eventually it was agreed that he should pay a weekly sum of 5s for his board and lodgings, and under these conditions the man became a voluntary inmate of a place where many who are worse off than he from a monetary point of view dread to go. VALIANT, who was formerly employed as a gardener in the county, was 80 years of age when he died. March 30, 1901 CORRESPONDENCE AN INTERESTING LETTER FROM CANADA To the Editor (Tara, Ontarios, Canada, March 5th, 1901) Dear Sir, - My main object in writing this letter is to find my sister or any of her family; I believe I was born at Driffield, but raised at “Little Reaston.” I was thirteen years hired with farmers in that section of country, and six years of that time was employed as a shepherd. I was married in March 1851, and sailed from Hull on the 17th day of April for Quebec. We then made our way to Toronto, Ontario, and I worked with a farmer the first summer. In 1852, I took a farm on shares, the owner finding horses and implements. I worked on for a few years in that way and then commenced for myself, and have been farming ever since. I have now a good farm of 200 acres, with good buildings and good stock of horses and cattle; some hackney horses from Simpkin’s breed. These horses were imported from England by John Donkin, of Riverview, Ontario. We have had to change our system of farming in Canada. We used to raise great quantities of wheat. The price of wheat went down so low that we had to turn our attention to stock raising. We fatten quite a number of cattle for the Old Country markets. We generally keep about forty head of cattle and try to fatten from ten to twelve every year. Pig raising is getting to be a great industry in Canada. Large packing houses are being built all over the country. We can’t farm in Canada with the Yorkshire farmer. The seasons are too short and winter is too long. But this is a great country; some say it is capable of supporting one hundred million people. I have travelled around quite a bit of the country. This is a better country for a poor man than the Old Country. My sister was married to Robert Coultas, at Rudston; he was a wagon maker by trade, but we have heard that the moved from there into the neighbourhood of Whitby. If you will be so kind as to publish this letter it might be noticed by some relative of mine, as I expect I have some in your section of the country; I should be very glad to hear from any of my friends as soon as possible. If you will send me a Driffield Times and the price of it for a year, I will send you the money in payment of subscription thereof. I am now in my seventy-sixth year and my wife is nearly four years younger. We intend to celebrate the 50th anniversary of our wedding on the 25th of this month. We expect all our family to be with us, viz. four sons, and two daughters and twenty-one grandchildren. I would be glad to hear from anyone in the Old Country. – I am, Sir, yours truly THOMAS DOLPHIN, Sr April 6, 1901 ARSON AT DRIFFIELD On Sunday night a large wheat straw stack situate in “Long Lane,” Driffield, belonging to Mr David Railton, coal merchant, was seen to be on fire, and it being a good distance from the town, and no water near at hand it was entirely consumed. During the night a man, giving the name of James Lewis, surrendered himself at the Police station, on Wansford Road, and told Superintendent Jackson that he wanted to give himself up for causing the fire, and he was locked up in consequence of his statement pending inquiries. On Monday morning the man was brought before Mr Harrison Holt, charged with setting fire to the stack, when Superintendent Jackson said that about ten minutes to eight o’clock on Sunday night the prisoner asked to see him privately at the Police station, and on being directed to the office, he expressed a wish to witness to give himself up for arson. Witness asked him if he meant it, and he replied, yes; he had set fire to a rick of hay. He said it was outside the town. In consequence of this statement he was lodged in one of the cells, and witness went to the place indicated by the prisoner, where he found a rick of straw, the property of Mr David Railton, on fire. On returning he charged the man with the offence, and his reply was that it was too late to be sorry when it was done. – The man was remanded pending inquiries as to his previous career. We understand Mr Railton was insured with the Yorkshire Fire and Life Insurance Co. April 13, 1901 ARSON AT DRIFFIELD James Lewis, a man described as a seaman, was charged on Thursday, with feloniously setting fire to a stack of wheat straw belonging to Mr D Railton, on the 31st March. Supt Jackson stated that on Sunday, March 31st, he saw prisoner at the police station, shortly after 8 o’clock at night. He asked to see witness in private and on being directed to the office an interview took place, and prisoner said he wished to give himself up for arson. Witness asked if he meant it and he said, “Yes, I have set fire to a rick of hay up a lane off Scarbro’ Road.” Witness locked him up and afterwards found that a straw rick had been set of fire, the property of Mr David Railton in the place where prisoner stated. On going to the place witness found the straw on fire. On returning to the police station prisoner said he knew what he was locked up for, and on charging him with the offence, he said, “Yes, its no use being sorry after it is done.” After he was remanded on the charge, witness found footprints in the lane corresponding with prisoner’s boots; they were not traceable all the way down the lane. David Railton deposed that he was a coal merchant, at Driffield. He occupied a field in “Long Lane.” A stack of wheat straw was in the field, which he saw last on March 29th. There was from three and a half to four tons of straw in the stack. He first heard of the fire about 8.30 on Sunday evening from his brother who had been at the fire before him. It was nearly burnt out when he arrived. After the evidence, prisoner was asked if he had anything t say, and replied “Nothing.” Prisoner was then formally committed to take his trial at the next York Assizes. Prisoner has been previously convicted of a similar offence at Cardiff, where he received a sentence of five years’ imprisonment. April 20, 1901 PARTIAL COLLAPSE OF A BAKEHOUSE Between 7 and 8 o’clock on Monday night part of the bakehouse occupied by Mr S.J. Honor, fell in with a great crash, causing the debris to fly in all directions. Fortunately no one was in the place at the time or the consequences might have been serious. The side of the premises where the oven is situate remained intact, and baking operations were carried on the following morning. April 20, 1901 SUDDEN DEATH – On Sunday, Mr Luke Harrison, traction engine and thrashing machine proprietor, died in an awfully sudden manner. About eleven o’clock he went to Mr Calam’s house in New Road and about twenty minutes to twelve got up for the purpose of going home to dinner. On getting into the passage he asked Mrs Calam if she would give him a drink of water as he felt queer. Mr Calam, noticing that he staggered somewhat, took hold of him and assisted him to a chair in the kitchen, where he died almost immediately. Dr Croft (Dr R.B. Eccles’ locum tenens) was soon in attendance. As the deceased had bee suffering from a fatty heart for some time no inequest was necessary. May 4, 1901 DURHAM COLLEGE OF MEDICINE - Among the candidates who have satisfied the examiners in the third examination for the degree of Batchelor of Medicine, we notice the name of Mr W.H. Lamplough, Birmingham University. Mr Lamplough is the second son of Mr Robert Lamplough, of Leamington Spa and formerly of Driffield May 4, 1901 DURHAM COLLEGE OF MEDICINE Among the candidates who have satisfied the examiners in the third examination for the degree of Bachelor of Medicine we notice the name of Mr W.H. Lamplough, Birmingham University. Mr Lamplough is the second son of Mr Robert Lamplough, of Leamington Spa, and formerly of Driffield May 4, 1901 A WARTER FARMER’S SUICIDE On Saturday afternoon, Mr Herbert Brown (Deputy Coroner), Driffield, held an inquiry at Cobdale Farm, Warter, touching the death of Mr Bernard DONKIN (27), who was found lying dead in the stackyard on Friday morning. Mr William DONKIN, farmer, identified the body as that of his son. Deceased, who worked on the farm, had not been in good health for the last three months, and had complained of pains in his head. Seven weeks since he went away for a change and rest, and seemed to benefit by it, but soon after his return he had a relapse. On Friday morning he was working in the field, and about nine o’clock asked his father to take the harrow, as he wanted to go to the house. After the space of an hour witness went to he farm and whilst he was speaking to another son, he heard a gunshot in the stackyard. He saw a cap fly in the air and proceeding in that direction he found deceased lying dead. Ernest W. DONKIN, said from what he saw of his brother’s injuries he concluded that he had placed the gun muzzle in his mouth, the top part of the head being shattered. His brother had been despondent and low-spirited for some time. John BURKS, labourer, deposed to seeing deceased carrying the gun on the morning referred to. The jury returned a verdict of suicide during a fit of temporary insanity. May 11, 1901 GARTON DEATH OF A GARTON MAN IN AUSTRALIA Advices from West Australia report the death of Mr Thomas Carter, formerly of Eddlethorpe, and Garton Grange. Mr Carter died from pneumonia, at Lennox House, Busselton, in his 74th year May 11, 1901 THE STACK FIRING CASE At the Leeds Assizes, on Tuesday, James Lewis (35) was sent to three years’ penal servitude for setting fire to a stack of wheat straw, the property of David Railton, at Driffield, on Sunday nigh, March 31st. May 11, 1901 A DRIFFIELD LAD KILLED NEAR WARTER On Monday evening, an inquest was held at the Tarberry Garth Farm, Warter, relative to the death of George Foster (son of Mr Jabez Foster, of Washington Street, Driffield), a farm servant, aged 19 years, in the employ of Mr Bowser Binnington. From the evidence tendered it appeared that the deceased in company with another servant on the farm went to Market Weighton Station on Saturday, for the purpose of fetching some cake, the deceased being charge of a cart and his companion a waggon. After getting loaded the men had a drink of ale and then set off home, about five o’clock. On the road the deceased passed his companion and went on in front. About half past six o’clock Mr E. Brown, woodman, of Londesbro’ Wold, saw the deceased passing his house; he was riding sideways on the horse’s back, with his feet on the cart shafts. About five minutes later Miss G Wilson found the deceased laid on the road, with a wheel mark on his trousers at the lower part of his body. He was quite dead. The horse and cart were found further on the road going in the direction of home. A verdict of “Accidental death” was returned. May 25, 1901 LOWTHORPE ATTEMPTED SUICIDE – On Wednesday, Mary Ann SMITHSON, the wife of a shepherd, made an attempt to take away her life. She has for some time been somewhat mentally deranged. Early on Wednesday morning the woman was left at home by her husband, but about nine o’clock she was found by some neighbours in the garden with her throat cut. Dr Eccles, of Nafferton, was sent for, and stitched up the wound, and the woman is progressing favourably May 25, 1901 The little girl who was murdered in Hull last week was niece of Mr George Cooper, caretaker of the New Market Hall. The murderer is still at large. July 21, 1901 ACCIDENT – While returning by road from Bridlington on Tuesday night, an accident happened to Arthur LONGBOTTOM, mineral water manufacturer. He was riding on the rully, and when passing through Burton Agnes he had the misfortune to fall off, and wheel passing over his right thigh, it was broken. He was removed home, where after being attended by Dr R.B. ECCLES, he was taken by the 10.1pm train to Hull, to undergo treatment at the Infirmary. June 29, 1901 FOOD AND DRUG ACT – Hannah Nendick, Cross Keys, Cranswick, for whom Mr Holtby, Driffield, appeared, was summoned by the police, for whom Mr Proctor, Beverley, appeared, for having sold some brandy that had been adulterated. Sgt Parket, the Inspector under the Food and Drugs Act, deposed to purchasing a pint of brandy, which he divided into three parts, one of which was sent to the public analyst, who found that the brandy had been reduced from 25 per cent under proof to 33-32 per cent under proof. – Mr Holtby pleaded that the adulteration had been done in error, and the Bench inflicted a penalty of £1 and costs. June 29, 1901 Elizabeth Booth of Nafferton, was charged with selling some golden syrup to Sergeant Parket, 36 parts of which only was golden syrup and 64 glucose syrup. A letter had been received from defendant’s employer stating the vessel from which the syrup was taken was labelled “table syrup” but the officer saw no label thereon. – John William Dobson stated that he bought the syrup from McFies and expected it was pure until it arrived, when it was found to be mixed with glucose; he labelled the jars it was put in as such. He urged that it had been a mistake and he had done all he could so as not to deceive the public. – The Bench imposed a penalty of £1 and costs. June 29, 1901 Drunk and Disorderly – Charles Smithson, labourer, Driffield, was charged with the above offence at Middleton, on the 14th inst (the Club Feast Day). PC Mitchell proved the case and a penatly of 5s and costs was imposed. June 29, 1901 Woodhall West and Harold Young were charged by PC Spriggs with being drunk and disorderly on Tuesday night, at Driffield. They were fighting near a lodging-house at the north end; Young went away, but Wests had to be taken home. West pleaded that one of the Volunteers just returned home from the front had been celebrating his 21st birthday and they not being used to taking drink it had taken hold of them. Fined 5s and costs each. August 3, 1901 Whilst attempting to kill a rat with a scythe at Highfield on Friday last, Mr John Belt had the misfortune to cut his leg very severely, so that he had to be removed home, and the services of Dr Keith summoned, under whose care he still remains. September 7, 1901 SAD DROWNING CASE AT DRIFFIELD A sad drowning case occurred between Thursday night and Friday morning. It appears that Mr George Etherington, miller, arose from his bed about 12.30 and not returning for some time his two sons got up and made a search for him about his home, but not finding him there they went down the river, ultimately finding him in a clearing tank at the filtration area. He has been in ill health for some time past, but had commenced work again on Tuesday. Deceased was 78 years of age. September 7, 1901 A Westgate Disturbance – Jane Jackson, an elderly woman, summoned a strong looking woman named Mary Colley, for an assault. The parties live in Westgate, Driffield, and on the 24th August, according to complainant’s story, the defendant struck her on both sides of her head and when she remonstrated with her defendant used language more forcible than polite and threw her on the doorstep. Complainant said she had been under the care of Dr Keith since the occurrence. – Elizabeth Arnold corroborated the complainant in her statement as to the assault, after they had had some words together. – Defendant on being sworn, gave her version, which was to the effect that Mrs Jackson asked her to come on to the road to fight as well as using some bad language. – Defendant admitted that she shook the complainant but it was under provocation; she fell on the ground, she was drunk. – Sgt Hornby stated that he saw the complainant shortly after the affray and she was perfectly sober and looked as if she had been a good bit roused. – The Bench imposed a penalty of 7s 6d including costs. September 14, 1901 A MALTON CURIOSITY The following quaint epitaph is on a flat tombstone in the Old Malton churchyard at the present time, and but few persons know of it. It is, however, fast becoming obliterated. Copied verbatim, it reads: - “Here lies the body of William Hope, who died March ye 2nd, 1761, aged 63 years. He was born in New Malton, brought up A., married Francis Herd, of this town, by whome he had fourteen children, viz 6 sons and eight daughters. His soul I hope in Heaven at rest Is singing praises with the Blest. The 5 Psalms to be sung at his Funeral My Sledge and Hammer he reclined, My Bellows, two, have lost their wind; My Fire’s extinct, my Forge delayed, And in the Dust my Voice is Laid; My Coal is spent, my Iron’s gone, My Nails are Drove, my Work is Done; My Fire-dry’d Corpse lies here at rest, My Soul, Smoak-like, is Soaring to be Blest.”
October 12, 1901 DRIFFIELD BOARD OF GUARDIANS A letter was read from Dr C.H. ECCLES, of Nafferton, with respect to some Plasmon and Valentine meat juice which he had supplied to a patient and which at the last meeting of the Board they had declined to pay for. He said, While your letter explains the inability of the Guardians to refund me the cost of these supplies, I would like to point out that the necessity is most unfortunate, both for myself and more particularly, for the patient. Sarah BEWELL (of Harpham) was suffering from congestion of the lungs, and extreme debility and old age, sinking fro want of nourishment, she refusing to take ordinary and easily obtained food. To have sent an order to the Relieving Officer would probably have meant a loss of 24 hours, in this particular case, probably more, as until the last few days it has been impossible, I believe, to obtain Plasmon – the only food which did nay real good – in Driffield at all. If, therefore, the Guardians can find any way out of this difficulty I am sure a boon would be conferred on these parish patients to who may be similarly situated to the case in question. It having been pointed out that in the absence of the Relieving Officer, the Overseers of the Parish were the proper parties to apply to in cases of emergency, the matter dropped. October 19, 1901 A DRUNKEN WOMAN – On Wednesday, Sarah PIERCY was charged with being drunk in the public street, the previous evening. Sergt HORNBY having deposed to finding the woman in a doorway so drunk that he had to convey her to the police station on a hand cart, the magistrate imposed a penalty of 5s and costs, in default seven days’ imprisonment. October 19, 1901 HELPERTHORPE On Thursday last an accident occurred in this village, which might have proved of a very serious nature. The eldest daughter of Mr HOPE, mounted a horse in front of her home, but was at once thrown to the ground, receiving a very severe cut on the head. She was carried to the house in an unconscious state. Under Dr HOLLING’s care, we are pleased to hear she is progressing favourably. October 19, 1901 USING BAD LANGUAGE AT LANGTOFT John PECKETT, labourer, of Langtoft, was charged with using bad language in the public street of he village on the 1st inst. – PC PECKETT stated that he had to threaten to lock him up ere he would go home. Defendant did not appear, but told the officer when the summons was served on him that he hoped the bench would grant him time to pay any fine they might inflict. This was put at 7s 6d and costs October 19, 1901 THE STATE OF DOWNE STREET To the Editor Dear Sir, - May I ask for space in your paper to plead the claim of Downe Street to the attention of our Highway Committee. I have known Downe Street now for nearly forty years, and so far as I can remember it has always worn the same lost, neglected appearance. Even the presence of our respected Vicar in its midst has not changed its aspect. It cannot, of course, aspire to be put in the high state of repair that Lockwood Street is, but surely it might be reasonably expect to bear favourably comparison with Back George Street, Harland Lane, and Church Street. No country lane in a remote district is in a worse state of repair than Downe Street. I believe it is peopled by good Conservatives; still even they would hardly wish the old order (or disorder) to remain for ever. Downe Street is the happy hunting ground of the Board School children, who pursue their games without let or hindrance………….Cricket, and mud pie-making on the bank of the Vicar’s hedge is the order of the day. The police seem to think the inhabitants a law abiding colony, and ignore them altogether. Old kettles, pans, paper, large stones, that serve well as wickets for the cricketers, all these lie about undisturbed, their only other use being to fill the large holes, some of them possibly made larger by the water that runs freely down the ruts. Within the last few weeks Downe Street has been visited by the Gas Company’s workmen, who, after tearing up the length of the street – not forgetting the path, as well as road – left it in a state, which I might safely say, if not attended to will, when frost sets in, compare unfavourably with any country road for ten miles round Driffield; and still Messrs Railton and Blakeston visit Downe Street with unfailing regularity. I hear Downe Street is to have attention, but when? I suppose it is peopled by long-suffering people who are willing to have their money go to attend to the more in-sight streets. Surely the turn of Downe Street will come, and Oh! Let it be soon. A RESIDENT IN DOWNE STREET October 19, 1901 EAST RIDING QUARTER SESSIONS In the case of Fred CHAPMAN, 18, labourer, charged with indecently assaulting and ill-treating Rachel Hilda ROBINSON, at Thixendale, on the 11th September, the jury returned a verdict of Not Guilty. October 19, 1901 EAST RIDING MEN IN A KENDAL ROW At Kendal, on Monday, Thomas RYAN, of Beverley, Alfred CUNNINGHAM, of Drifield, Ellen CUNNINGHAM, his wife, and Martin MCGARRY, of Birmingham, were charged with unlawfully wounding Thomas HUTTON and Thomas LANGHORN, wallers, of Kendal, at the Rifleman’s Arms, in that town, on Monday afternoon. LANGHORN stated that about three o’clock the prisoners came into the public house and offered some wire baskets for sale. HUTTON and the landlady each bought one, and prisoners had a glass of beer each. The whole party afterwards drank together, and the strangers then asked the Kendal men to pay for another half-gallon of beer. Upon their refusing to do so the woman struck HUTTON twice, the other joining in the assault, and LANGHORN tried to separate them, when MCGARRY hit him on the head with a pint pot. Glasses and crockery were thrown about, a gallon jug which was thrown at HUTTON being produced in court covered with blood. Dr LEEMIN, who was called in, found that LANGHORN had small wounds on the elbow, cheeks, and scalp; HUTTON being more seriously injured, however, a wound an inch long on the scalp and one about the same size which went to the cheek bone on each side. His nose was completely cut through, the incision extending down to his lip. He was removed to the Hospital which he would not be able to leave for a fortnight or three weeks. The were remanded till Monday. October 19, 1901 The death of a keelman, named Thomas WALKER, aged 86 (formerly of Driffield), of the keel Gertrude, occurred very suddenly on Sunday morning, at Stoneferry October 19, 1901 CRANSWICK TRANSFER OF LICENSE Walker Watson, joiner, applied for the transfer of the White Horse, from Mr John NORRIS, to himself. Mr NORRIS stated that is was her intention to stay and help her son in the house, which he, having recently attained his majority, had become heir to. The application was granted, the Bench expressing the hope that Mrs NORRIS would do her best to assist to manage it alright. October 26, 1901 THE KENDAL BEERHOUSE ROW – At Kendal on Monday, Alfred and Ellen CUNNINGHAM, of Driffield, Thomas RYAN, of Beverley, and Martin MCGARRY, of Birmingham, brought up on remand, charged with assaulting Thomas HUTTON and Thomas LANGHORN, at the Rilfeman’s Arms, were sentenced each to two months’ imprisonment with hard labour October 19, 1901 DRIFFIELD URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL The committee having considered the letter from Mr George LEASON as to changing the names of Chapel Lane and Doctor Lane, resolved that they recommended that the name of Chapel Lane be changed to King Street, and the name of Doctor Lane be changed to Queen Street and that the Clerk obtain and have the necessary plates fixed. October 19, 1901 DRIFFIELD URBAN DISTRICT COUNCIL THE BURIAL FEES A letter was read from the Secretary of State, signifying his approval of the table of fees to be taken by ministers for services rendered at Great Driffield Cemetery, they being 2s 6d for each internment. November 2, 1901 DEATH FROM THE RESULT OF AN ACCIDENT AT DRIFFIELD On Wednesday afternoon, at the Mechanics’ Institute, Drifield, an inquiry was held relative to the death of Edna Annie Lisle, aged 11 years, only daughter of the Rev J.W. Lisle, Primitive Methodist Minister, Lockwood Street. The Coroner stated that they were summoned to inquire into the death of the deceased, who had died the previous day. She had been attended by a doctor for about ten weeks, but an inquest was necessary from the fact that the deceased’s death was due to injuries which he thought they would be able to say was the result of a pure accident. The Rev J.W. LISLE, father of the deceased stated the body seen by the jury was that of his daughter, who had died the previous evening. The child had a fall on Mr WALGATE’s lawn on the 19th August, when she fell and injured her spine. He did not know of the accident until two days after, and as the child could not place one of her legs on the ground on the third day the doctor was summoned, and found it was a serious case. Muriel SCOTCHBURN, a daughter of Mr Wm SCOTCHBURN, draper, deposed that she was playing with the deceased and others on Mr WALGATE’s lawn on the 19th August last, and that as deceased was running she fell backwards over a clothes line. She complained of feeling a little dizzy, but went on playing. Dr R.B. ECCLES stated that he was present when deceased died. He first attended her on the 22nd August, and she had been under his care since then. The child told him how the accident happened. There was a bruise over the lower part of the spine. Paralysis had shown itself in the left leg when he first saw her, and it spread to the other parts of her body. Dr Frank NICHOLSON, of Hull, saw the child on the 24th August in consultation. Death was the result of pulmonary complications, due to paralysis of the muscles of respiration. The Coroner said there could be no doubt as to the facts of the child falling over the clothes line, sustaining such injuries to the spine that ultimately resulted in her death. she had had the best medical aid possible, but it had been of no avail. He thought the verdict could only be that of “Accidental death,” in which the jury concurred. The coroner also expressed his own sympathy and that of the jury with the bereaved family. November 9, 1901 DRIFFIELD BOARD OF GUARDIANS The following communications were read by the Clerk: - General Register Office Somerset House, London, W.C. 26th October, 1901 Sir, - I am directed by the Registrar-General to forward to you a copy of a letter that has been addressed to him by Mr John JENNISON, late Registrar of the Foston sub-district, in the hope that the matter may be laid before the Guardians, and that they may see their way to grant this distressed old man some assistance in his present need. – I am, sir, your obedient servant JOHN C.B. ELLIS Pro Chief Clerk
Frodingham, Oct, 21, 1901 Sir, - I was Registrar for the Foston sub-district of births and deaths for 46 years; my age is 84 years; I was desired to give it up and fall back on my pension; I did so, and received my quarter’s pay for September, £2 19s 5d. I was very ill during the quarter. The doctor said I must be well attended to or I should slip through. I was to keep in bed; they got me a charwoman one day. She charged 2s 4d. My income could not stand that, so I did not engage her any more. When the doctor came he was very cross to find me waiting on myself. I told him the reason; he said I had better go to the workhouse; he said I should be better attended to and have the doctor as well. I said it would be a poor end for a servant after 46 years’ service. He said, apply to your employers. I leave it in your hands. If you can do anything you will greatly oblige me. – Your most obedient servant. JOHN JENNISON Mr WATTS said he had made some inquiries about Mr JENNISON’s position and found that he had £13 in the Bank and also owned four cottages (one at Foston), but they were mortgaged. One of the cottages was occupied by the owner, and another was unoccupied. With respect to the one at Foston, although it was occupied, he was unable to get any rent. It was pointed out that Mr JENNISON could not be looked upon as destitute, and it was, therefore, decided not to take any action on the letter. November 23, 1901 WEAVERTHORPE In the early hours of Wednesday , Nov 13th, Mr John MILNER, farmer, passed to his rest at the ripe age of 86 years, he was one of the oldest inhabitants, having spent all his days in this and the adjoining village of Helperhorpe. He was interred at Weaverthorpe on Friday, deeply respected by all who knew him, whether farmers or labourers. In addition to the members of his own family, his remains were followed by a very large number of friends and the members of the “Pride of the Valley Loge” and its juvenile branch, “The Rising Sun.” He was the oldest member of the club, having joined in 1838. The last 25 years of his life have been spent at Rarey Farm, as tenant farmer of the late Mr H. Chomley, of Howsham. To the poor and their children he was always a ready friend, and will be greatly missed by them. November 23, 1901 ACCIDENT ON THE RAILWAY A singular and unfortunate accident was sustained on Monday at the Driffield Railway Station, by Fred WATSON, a goods porter. He was engaged in sheeting a waggon, and was jammed between the waggon and the warehouse wall. His collar bone was broken and his chest injured and it is feared that some ribs were broken. First aid was rendered by several of the railway employees, and he was afterwards removed home on a stretcher and attended by Dr BELL. November 23, 1901 UNLAWFULLY WOUNDING Franceso VOLANDI, and Italian concertina player, was charged with unlawfully and maliciously inflicting grievous bodily harm upon James BIELBY, at Driffield, on the 20th inst. It appears that the men were staying at Leak’s lodging-house, Middle-street North, on Wednesday evening, and that, while they were in the act of preparing their suppers, VOLANDI insisted on removing a kettle, which BIELBY (who is a bricklayer) resented, upon which the Italian struck him over the head several times with the prongs of a heavy toasting fork, mounted in wood, causing two wounds, which Dr KEITH attended to. – evidence was given bearing out the above facts by the prosecutor and William LEAK, the lodging house keeper. – Sergeant HORNBY deposed to apprehending the prisoner, and produced the toasting fork, which was broken in two. – Dr KEITH spoke to dressing the wounds, which consisted of an abrasion on the top of the head and another on the left temple; one was healed up and the other was healing up. The wounds were not of a very serious nature. Addressing the prisoner through and interpreter, Mr SCOTHCBURN said they felt it their duty to inflict a fine of £1 and the costs, in all £2 2s, or in default go to prison for one month. The prisoner having a nice banking account, said he would pay the money. November 30, 1901 ALEHOUSE TRANSFERS Benjamin PALMER applied for the transfer of the White Horse Inn, Driffield, from Wm HARTER, and Frederick William COOK applied for the transfer of the Royal Oak beerhouse, Driffield, from Benjamin PALMER to himself. Both applications were granted. The license of the Ship Inn, Langtoft, was transferred to John THORNBURN November 30, 1901 LOCAL DIVORCE CASE In the Divorce Division, on Friday, Mr Justice BARNES had before him the petition of George BELL, landlord of the Nags Head Inn, Driffield, who sought a divorce by reason of the adultery of his wife, with Thos WATSON. There was no defence. The petitioner stated that he married the respondent on the 22nd March, 1882, at St Mary’s Church, Hull. They afterwards lived at the Belle Vue Hotel, Hull, and subsequently at the Nags Head Inn, Driffield. The co-respondent, who was a Driffield man, was acting as chairman of the singing room at his inn in June 1898. He had reason to complain of his wife’s conduct with the co-respondent, but she denied that any impropriety had taken place. The following September he again had to complain about her, and she arranged to leave him. He promised to send her sums of money if she gave up the co-respondent. Later on he received letters from her from Rochdale, and subsequently he found that she was living with the co-respondent. Mr George HODGSON, private enquiry agent, of Hull, gave evidence as to the respondent and co-respondent living together at Rochdale. His Lordship granted a decree nisi with costs. December 7, 1901 CRANSWICK At the York Assizes on Monday, two youths named Charles Bradshaw and John William Kitching, were indicted for a criminal assault upon Edith Norris, a girl of 15 years, at Hutton Cranswick. The lads met the girl in a field, and she consented to their request. – The prisoners were discharged and the learned judge sternly censured the girl and cautioned the lads. December 7, 1901 We have to record the death of Mr Richard DAVISON, which event took place after a long illness, at his residence, Beverley Road, on Wednesday morning, at the age of 79 years. The deceased formerly carried on the business of a chemist in the Market Place, but for the last 40 years he has acted as the secretary to the Driffield and East Riding Pure Linseed, Cotton and Union Cake Company, Ltd., of which he was one of the founders. He was a large benefactor of the Church, and has put several stained glass windows into the Driffield Parish Church, and was a liberal subscriber towards the building of St John’s Church. The poor found in him a good friend, and many were the gifts they received from him to make their life happier. He was a trustee of the Cottage Hospital and a member of the committee of the Charitable Society. December 7, 1901 BESWICK DEATH OF A WELL KNOWN TRADESMAN – On Sunday last, in the presence of sorrowing relations, clubmen and a great number of friends, the remains of the late Mr William SISSONS, joiner and waggon builder, were laid to rest in the pretty churchyard of this village. From humble beginnings, with scant education, by sheer hard work and perseverance, he had risen step by step to occupy a noted and respectable position in the trade. His speciality seemed to be building wagons, at which he was a master. He was a successful exhibitor at the Driffield Agricultural Shows for very many years. He has held office and been an energetic and faithful member of the Cranswick Forester Club for a very long time. He leaves a widow and a family of eight (four married and four unmarried) which have rallied round and helped him in a manner that few families do. December 7, 1901 CRANSWICK At the York Assizes, on Monday, two youths, named Charles BRADSHAW and John William KITCHING, were indicted for a criminal assault upon Edith NORRIS, a girl of 15 years, at Hutton Cranswick. The lads met the girl in a field and she consented to their request. – The prisoners were discharged and the learned Judge sternly censured the girl and cautioned the lads. December 14, 1901 APPOINTMENT OF A NEW MAGISTRATE We have pleasure in recording the fact that agreeably with the wishes expressed in a very numerously signed memorial, the Lord Chancellor, on the recommendation of Lord Herries, the Lord Lieutenant, has placed the name of Mr John Frank Shepherdson of Driffield, on the Commission of Peace for the East Riding of Yorkshire. We congratulate our townsman on this public recognition of his worth and this marked approval of life-long service for the public good. It must be peculiarly gratifying to Mr Shepherdson to reflect that the honour is not of his own seeking, for probably there has rarely been a man who more cordially disliked anything in the nature of self-advertisement, or who avoided so carefully the ways of ostentation, yet in the performance of his public duties he has always been true to himself and his own convictions. Of studious habits and extensive reading, he has kept himself fully abreast of modern thought and is thus continually identified with the party of progress. Though not a fluent speaker he is able at all times to address himself pointedly to the question under discussion, and his remarks invariably command respectful attention and not unfrequently carry conviction to hearers. Reticent on religious matters, he has strong convictions of his own, but is a firm believer in the right of every man to follow the dictates of his own conscience, and has resolutely held aloof from sectarianism. An enthusiastic musician, he has ever been a willing helper in matters of musical, notably so in the Driffield Choral Society, of which he has for some time been one of the vice-presidents. Mr Shepherdson, J.P., is advanced in life, having been born during the reign of George the Fourth and though he has lived during the reign of four monarchs, he is still hale and hearty, and moves with the elasticity of a much younger man. Always an active business man, he has been closely associated with the industrial progress of the town of Driffield, and as Chairman of Geo Shepherdson & Son, Ltd, continues actively to preside over the destinies of that important concern. In “municipal” matters he is well to the fore, having been a member of the Urban District Council since its inception, and Chairman of the Gas Committee of that Council for several years, rendering in these capacities faithful and much appreciated service to his native town. His ancestry is an honourable one, and has for nearly two centuries been closely identified with every movement connected with the progress of Driffield. We hope and trust that our friend may be spared for many years to continue his useful public work, and to fill with honour and dignity the high position to which he has been called. December 14, 1901 BISHOP BURTON SHOCKING ACCIDENT – On Tuesday, about noon, a serious accident occurred to Joseph STAMP, a farm servant, aged 18, who had recently gone to live with Mr BYASS, of Bishop Burton Lings. It seems that he was taking some horses to water at a pond, when one of the animals kicked out and struck him on the side of the head, making a fearful wound. He was found unconscious and taken to the hospital at Beverley. January 18, 1902 DEATH OF MR THOMAS HOLDERNESS OF DRIFFIELD It is with regret that we record the death of Mr Thomas Holderness, proprietor and publisher of the Driffield Observer, which event took place shortly after nine o’clock on Wednesday morning. Mr Holderness, who was in the 79th year of his age had been in failing health for some time but it was only comparatively recently that he relinquished active duties in connection with his business. He was one of the oldest tradesmen in the town. He was born at Bridlington in 1823 and was a son of Mr William Holderness, builder, of that place. He served his time with Mr Furby, printer, bookseller, bookbinder, &c, and came to Driffield in 1848, where he succeeded to the business carried on by Mr Geo Grassam, whose shop stood on the site where the York Union Bank now is. In 1858 he started the Observer, which was then a small 4 page paper, 15in. by 10in., and was published monthly, the Stamp Act and paper duty being in force at the time. After some half dozen numbers had been published, and on the outbreak of the Crimean War, the paper was enlarged to eight pages, and published fortnightly, that being the shortest period an unstamped newspaper could be printed. Early in life he devoted some time to oil-painting and was one of three Bridlington youths who taught themselves wood engraving, the other two being Mr Thomas Capes (late postmaster, Bridlington), and the late Mr Benjamin Fawcett, who afterwards established a printing business at Driffield. Later in life Mr Holderness devoted himself to local literature and studied topography, and place names. In connection with these he acquired an extensive knowledge of the Anglo Saxon language, and was frequently the correspondent of Professor Skeats, the first holder of the chair of Anglo-Saxon in the University of Cambridge. His published works included “Some place names of East Yorkshire,” for which he made a prolonged study of the Yorkshire portion of “Domesday Book,” and the “Icleandic Landnama,” and tabulated their contents with regard to names of places and names of persons; “Some place names in Derbyshire,” “The funeral of King Alfred at Driffield,” and “The battle of Brunnaburgh,” are from his pen; while in conjunction with Mr Fredk Ross (his brother in law), and Mr Stead, M.A., of Folkestone Grammar School, he published “A Glossary of words used in Holderness in the East Riding of Yorkshire.” This work was written for the English Dialect Society, and extended to nearly 200 pages, and was looked upon as one of the best works published by the society. He also wrote a series of articles on “The Local Topography of the neighbourhood between Driffield and Filey,” which at the time of his death was in the press, under the title of “Flamborough Head and neighbourhood.” In politics, Mr Holderness was a staunch Liberal. He was Free Churchman and an abstainer for over 50 years, but never obtruded his principles to others unnecessarily. May 24, 1902 Mr J. MAIS, the new station master at Driffield, commenced his duties on Tuesday. May 24, 1902 Mr J. BROWN, the popular Yorkshire cricketer, who is resting from the Yorkshire Eleven, is taking a course of baths at Harrogate. May 24, 1902 THWING INQUEST – An inquest was held on Thursday, a the Lloyd Cottage Hospital, Bridlington, on the body of Mrs Emily WINTER, of Thwing village (27), who died early on Wednesday morning. The unfortunate woman had fallen on the kitchen fire on the 18th ult, while preparing breakfast for herself and her three children. She had been subject to fits, and it is supposed she had fallen in a fit. She was admitted to the hospital the same day. A verdict of accidental death was returned. She is survived by her three little children, whose father is, and has been for two years, on active service in South Africa. May 24, 1902 LADY SYKES AS A WRITER Lady Sykes has an interesting contribution entitled “Master and Man,” in the first number of a new publication which has just been issued under the title of “Field and Kennel; A Magazine for all Lovers of Sport.” In this paper Lady Sykes relates some interesting stories of the late Sir Tatton Sykes and his faithful henchman Thomas Grayson, who died quite recently in the village of Sledmere. For the last twenty years of the venerable baronet’s life Grayson was his constant attendant. “Both master and man – Sir Tatton Sykes and his old servant – are specimens of the roll of men,” says Lady Sykes, “who have made England what she is, and the lack of such sons would, should such a lack occur, do more to bring Great Britain down from her high position in the scale of nations than any other cause.” “Old Tom Grayson himself,” says Lady Sykes, “was born at a little village called Kirby Grindalythe, three or four miles from Sledmere; his mother lived to be 108 and died only about twenty years ago. She was about forty when her son, who was the youngest of a large family, was born. Her mother also had lived to a great age and Grayson has told me that his grandmother could remember men being hanged in chains and other barbarous punishments, which were in vogue a hundred years since. I remember one gruesome story that always stuck me with horror, and which I have since discovered was perfectly true. We were riding down a lane near the valley of the Derwent, close to Scampston, the near seat of the ancient family of the St Quintins, when Grayson pointed to a group of three very old trees, and he said: “There a man was hungered to death.” The story was that, in that lane, in a ruinous cabin, lived for years a crazy woman, who went by the nickname of “Old Coatee,” because she was always wrapped in a leather coat. One day this old woman, who had the reputation of being a miser, disappeared. Later, her body was found in a well in the neighbourhood. A man who had been seen coming out of her house was arrested, and he confessed that he had murdered her, but all he found of money was a groat. A cage was erected at the corner of the road, under these trees; in it the wretch was confined, and kept without food or drink. Daily a huge peck loaf, new and smoking from the oven, was put in front of the cage, that the sight and smell might add to his tortures. He lived for over ten days in this horrible condition; and this happened a little more than 100 years ago. Grayson said his mother and grandmother both saw this man in the cage, and that his shrieks were terrible.” July 9, 1904 We regret to learn that Mr and Mrs Chas DUFFIN, of the White Horse Inn, Nafferton, have just been informed by the Major of the 83rd Battalion Royal Field Artillery, of the death of their son, George Arthur Duffin, who was a driver in the Battalion stationed at Standerton, South Africa. The deceased, who went out with his regiment before the close of the Boer War, has the medal, and was 21 years old the day before his death, which was the result of enteric fever April 25, 1914SHOCKING FATALITY TO A CHILD AT GARTON ON THE WOLDS A CHILD KILLED IN MOTHER’S PRESENCE On Monday morning, a sad accident occurred at the above village to a little two year old child named Richard Leslie WILSON, son of Fred WILSON, traction engine driver, he being killed in the presence of his mother. What makes this occurrence more sad is the fact that about nine months ago the child’s uncle was killed whilst riding a motor cycle through Little Driffield. Much sympathy is expressed in the village with the bereaved parents. On Monday night at the School-house, Mr Herbert BROWN, deputy coroner, held an inquest relative to the child’s death, when the following evidence was given :- Maud WILSON, mother, deposed that about nine o’clock on Monday morning a traction engine was passing down the street towards Driffield. Her child was on the footpath in front of the next house. He ran off the footpath on to the road to meet the engine; he was attracted by them. The engine was coming slowly along and she saw him run up to it. The wheel knocked him down and went over him. Emma ARMSTRONG stated that she lived next door to deceased’s parents. She was in the yard behind her house when she heard an engine coming, about 9.30. She knew the little boy was in the habit of running on to the road. She went round to the front of her house and saw the boy playing on the footpath. She called to him, but he took no notice and commenced to run on to the road. The engine and two waggons were coming down the hill very slowly; the child ran straight into the engine. In the meantime she had come out of her garden onto the road to see if she could get hold of him, but when she got up to him he was just under the engine. The child’s father and grandfather were engine drivers, and the boy was used to playing about the engines. The engine did not swerve in any attempt to avoid the boy; the driver had no time to do so. She thought only the front wheel went over him. She never noticed who was n the engine or whether any third man was about on the road. The boy would see where he was going, as he was facing the engine all the time. She went into the house with the mother, who had picked up the body. The child was living and conscious but died in about twenty minutes. Thos. BROWN, of Helperthorpe, said that he was driving the engine (which belonged to Mr Jas. E. HARRISON, of East Lutton), at Garton that morning; he had six years’ experience. Hy HARRISON was with him as steersman, with Alfred PICKARD as third man. The latter was walking alongside the first waggon, his regular place being with the last one, but it was his duty to go forward opposite the first wagon when the brakes needed to be put on; there was a communication cord from the last waggon to the engine. They were coming down the hill in the village, towards Little Driffield (from where they were to fetch some manure) about nine-thirty. The brakes had been put on, and they were going at probably two miles an hour, all steam being shut off. Approaching the two new cottages (in one of which deceased’s parents lived), the first thing he saw was a woman coming round the house end walking quickly. He next saw the child on the footpath, and another woman (Mrs ARMSTRONG) coming towards the child, who, as soon as he saw her, witness thought, set off to run away. He ran on to the road and straight into the engine. Witness at once reversed his engine, but there was no time to alter the steering. The front near side wheel ran over the child and he thought, probably, the back wheel also. The mother went and gathered the child up. Alfred PICKARD deposed that he was the third man with the engine that morning. On reaching the top of the hill he went up to the front wheel and put the brakes on; they were going down the hill at two miles an hour. He saw the little boy run on to the road in front of the engine and the front wheel knocked him down and went over his leg; the back wheel also shaved the left side and went over the arm and leg. When the body was picked up it was between the back wheel of the engine and the front wheel of the first waggon. Dr TINSLEY stated that in consequence of a message received, he went over to Garton and saw the body about 10.30; it was laid on the hearthrug in front of the fire, quite dead. He made an external examination and found the back portion of the left thigh had been severely crushed, the flesh being torn away from the bone and the same on the left arm. Such injuries could have been caused by the wheel of an engine passing over the limbs. The left side of the body was grazed and the child had evidently died from shock. The injuries were of a fatal description. This being the whole of the evidence, the jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death, caused by shock due to injuries sustained by being run over by a traction engine.” January 2, 1915 DEATH OF AN OLD LICENSE HOLDER On of those rare happenings now-a-days – an interment in the Parish Churchyard – took place on Wednesday afternoon, when the remains of Mrs Sarah Shepherdson were laid in their last resting place. The deceased, who passed away on Sunday night, at the ripe age of 84 years, had lived at the Little Red Lion Inn, in Church Lane, for about 41 years and was the oldest license holder in the town. She was twice married, her first husband being Mr James Reaston, who was an engine-driver, and her second husband was Mr Shepherdson, who was a seafaring man. She leaves two children by her first husband. Among those present were Mr and Mrs Reaston (son and daughter in law) and Mr and Mrs Wilson (son in law and daughter) January 16, 1915 DEAT OF MR J WATSON – It is with deep regret that we record the death of Mr John Witty Watson, jeweller and watchmaker, which took place on Thursday afternoon. Mr Watson was taken ill on Christmas morning and was removed to the Hospital during the day and there underwent an operation which not proving altogether successful, another had to be performed, although hopes were entertained that he might have sufficient strength to pull through, such proved not to be the case and he passed away as stated. Mr Watson, who was only 54 years of age, will be much missed, not only by the members of the family, but by a large circle of friends which his genial ways had gained, as well as his fellow townspeople generally. In politics he was a pronounced Liberal. The funeral takes place on Saturday afternoon. December 23, 1916 CHILDREN’S COURT Daniel Arnell, a school boy of 10 years, was charged with stealing 4 ½lb of mutton, value 5s 3d, the property of Mrs Morris, butcher, of Mill Street, Driffield. – Clara Stork, a girl of 13, living in Providence Place, Driffield, said that on Tuesday the 12th December, about 5.30pm, she was in company of another girl in Mill Street when she saw the boy go to Mrs Morris’ shop, put his hand round the curtain which was in front of the shop door and take a piece of meat which he put under his jacket. He ran into Westgate, and she went and told Mr Morris. – Rd Morris, butcher, deposed to missing the mutton from off the table in the shop. He went into Westgate and saw the boy stood at the end of a passage where his grandfather lived. He charged the boy with taking the meat from the shop, which he denied. He then took him into his grandfather’s house and asked him if the lad had brought any meat into the house and he replied that he had given him sixpence to fetch some meat. Witness saw a parcel behind a bowl on a table and on it being opened out it was found to contain the mutton. The grandfather said he knew nothing about it. – Sgt Maw said he went and saw the boy, to whom he explained the nature of the charge when he said, “I fetched it out of the shop and took it to my grandfather’s house, as he had sent me for six pennyworth of meat but we spent the six pence. – In reply to the Bench the lad said the money had been spent on fried potatoes. – The grandfather denied all knowledge of what the contained, but eh Bench thought he was not altogether free from blame seeing the meat weighed 4 ½lbs. – The lad promised to do better in the future and in order to give him another chance, his mother was bound over to his behalf and he was placed under the charge of the Probation Officer. December 23, 1916 CRUELTY TO CHILDREN – Alfred Savage, labourer, Gibson Street, Driffield, was summoned by JW Parry, Inspector of the RSPCA, Scarborough, for wilfully neglecting five children, aged respectively 15, 13, 9, 5, and 4, at Driffield, on Dec 5th and other dates. The mother of the children is dead. Mr Thos Hontby prosecuted – Inspector Parry said on the 5th Dec he visited the house and saw the elder children who were in a filthy state; the house was dirty and the front room empty. The smell of the room in which the children were, was bad. The bodies and clothing of the younger children were covered with vermin. Dry excreta was on the floor where the children slept. A little attention had been given since that date, he had visited the house eight times. He understood the man spent his evenings in the public house. – The man said he had got some clean bedding and he had to walk to his work three miles. His eldest child looked after the other children and had promised to do better in the future than she had done. One of the lads was getting 8s per week. In reply to Sir Luke, the man said he should not like the children to go to the workhouse. The case was adjourned for 14 days to allow the man to send the children into the workhouse, the defendant to pay for their maintenance. December 23, 1916 A WARNING TO NEGLECTFUL MOTHERS Laura Jenkinson, of Washington Street, Driffield, wife of John Hodgson Jenkinson, a soldier serving his country abroad, was summoned by Inspector Parry, of the RSPCA, Scarborough, on a charge of wilfully neglecting her four children, aged respectively 10, 7, 5 and 8 years. – Mr Thos Holtby prosecuted on behalf of the society. – Sergt Maw stated that on Monday Dec 4th, about 9.45am, along with PC Haigh, he visited the house where defendant lived and in the front room he found two of the youngest children; the one aged three was amusing himself by lighting paper at the fire, which had an open fire-grate, the mother being absent at the time. About 10.15 in the evening they again visited the house and found the kitchen devoid of furniture and several squares of glass in the window broken. The front room was very scantily furnished; the back bedroom contained only a few dirty flocks, and in the front bedroom was a straw mattress on an old iron bedstead, a dressing table, and a chair. The mattress was in a dirty state, smeared with excrement and urine; the smell was very offensive. There was no covering except an old jacket and dirty sheet. The woman’s attention was called to the matter, when she said she intended to clean it up and get some more bed covering. The only food in the house was a small piece of butter or margarine. On November 6th the house was on fire, owing to the children playing with it, the mother being away at Beverley at the time. She was a woman of loose and drunken habits, and was often seen in the company of men and prostitutes. He had previously warned her with respect to her conduct. – Inspector Parry said he first visited the house in July last, and at other times since that date. On his last visit he found the bed and clothing filthy and the surroundings were not conductive to health, but the children were not badly nourished. – It was stated the woman had 27s per week separation allowance. – The woman admitted having been drinking, but said the children were not dirty. – The Bench sentenced her to three months imprisonment, the children to be taken care of in the meantime. The woman was removed from the box sobbing bitterly. February 17, 1917 The charge of cruelty to children – Alfred Savage, Driffield, appeared to reply to a charge of cruelty to his children, he having taken them out of the workhouse. The man said he had been informed that he must remove them and he had done so. – Inspector Parry reported that good improvement had been made in the home and if he would continue it, he (the Inspector), would look after the house. – Under this understanding the Bench said they would not take further action. – The boy had gone into farm service. December 6, 1919DEATH OF A WELL KNOWN PRIMITIVE METHODIST MINISTER There passed away at Driffield on Monday morning, after a lengthy illness, the Rev John Scruton, at the age of 78 years. Th |