Extracts from

The Wellington Journal

and

Shrewsbury News

1908

 

 

relating to Broseley and District

 

 

 

 

 

Broseley Local History Society

2004



4th January 1908

BROSELEY

DISTRICT COUNCIL. Wednesday.- Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Lord Forester, Councillors J. Nicklin, T. I. Griffiths, T. S. Instone, and G.  Keay, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), H. Oakes (rate collector), and H. Abberley (water inspector).- The Chairman thanked the Council for the honour they had done him in re-electing him their chairman. He had no desire to monopolise this position but he was always pleased to do his best for the rate-payers at large. (Applause).- Mr Instone:- The right man in the right place.- With reference to the alleged nuisance at the Benthall Brook, the Council were of the opinion that the culvert was a low as could be placed on account of the bed of the brook.- Mr Herbert reported the district free from notifiable disease.  He also reported a number of nuisances, and the normal orders were made.- The Clerk reported a balance in hand on the general district and water rate account of £223 15s. 7d. but said that after cheques had been signed that day there would only be a balance of £50 in hand.- Mr Oakes said there was £437 to be collected on the general account.- Mr Abberley reported that he had inspected the mains and fire-plugs all of which were in good working order.  The water meters were also in good condition. The hospital mains for the fire purposes, he added, had been completed.

 

11th January 1908

MUCH WENLOCK

PETTY SESSIONS.-

COAL STEALERS.- Albert Henry Lewis labourer, Jackfield, was charged with stealing 20lb. weight of coal, value 2d., the property of his employers, Messrs C. R. Jones, Ltd., tile manufacturers, Jackfield.- Police Constable Reeves said he was concealed in the works, and he saw defendant steal the coal.- Defendant was fined 15s., including costs.

 

PETTY SESSIONS – Tuesday

William Griffiths, collier, Legge’s Hill Broseley

 

MADELEY GUARDIANS’ MEETING

THURSDAY.- Present:- Mr T. Weaver (chairman), the Rev. W. A. Terry, Mrs Lloyd, Messrs. C. Edwards. W. J. Legge,  E. G. Exley, J. D. Benbow, G. Windsor, H. Hughes, J. E. Hartshorne, A. Rhodes, T. Doughty, J. Simpson, J. Davies, B. Maddox, A. A. Exley, E. Fletcher, A. H. Thorn-Pudsey (clerk), G, Watson (master), J. C. Mole and W. Edge (reliving officers).

TELEPHONE.- A letter was read from the National Telephone Company, offering to connect the telephone to the workhouse for £6 per annum for 600 calls.- Mr. Maddox said the telephone would be useful in the house for many reasons, particularly to the hospital. He moved the telephone be connected.- Rev. W. A. Terry seconded the motion.- Mr. Benbow strongly objected to the motion, contending that there was already too much money being spent on the place. The ratepayers were being heavily drained.- Mr. Legge concurred with these remarks. – The Clerk said the connection would be of immense service to the office.- The motion was carried by eight votes to four.

REPORT.- The Master reported that 32 vagrants had been admitted during the fortnight. Messrs. Rhodes and Hall reported they had visited the house and found everything in order, and the house very clean, and the inmates comfortable.

OBJECTION TO THE WORKHOUSE.- A man named Jordan Smith applied for relief, and on being told by the Chairman that they could only offer him the house, he replied smilingly, “I prefer to stop out”.

 

18th January 1908

IRON-BRIDGE

THE RAILWAY FATALITY.- On Saturday Mr. R. E. Clarke (borough coroner) held an inquest at St. Alkmund’s Schoolroom, Shrewsbury, on the body of William Fowler (55), a platelayer in the employ of the G.W.R. Co., who died in the Salop Infirmary from injuries sustained through being knocked down by a waggon on the 6th December at Iron-Bridge. Mr. Thorn-Pudsey (Iron-Bridge) appeared for the widow, and Mr. J. Barker was present on behalf of the railway company.- Emma Fowler, widow of deceased living at Ward’s Road Iron-Bridge, identified the body.- Harry Franks, waggoner, Barrow, stated that on the day in question he was proceeding along the road near Iron-Bridge with three horses attached to a waggon load of potatoes. He passed over the level crossing at Iron-Bridge, and when turning a sharp corner he saw a man with a barrow on the footpath, which just in that part was level with the road. The wagon was close to the footpath, owing to the frosty condition of the road, and he called to the deceased to move, but he did not. He at that time was leading the first horse, and went towards the last one, but before he could do so the front wheel of the waggon had smashed the barrow and also pinned deceased against the fencing on the side of the road. When deceased was released he complained of his legs being hurt.- Dr. Buckle, house surgeon at the Salop Infirmary, stated that deceased was brought to the institution suffering from shock and injuries to his legs. The right leg was broken below the knee, and the left one slightly cut. About two days after he was admitted inflammation set in, and the patient died of the effects.- The Coroner stated that this was the second case of this kind of a man losing his life in the Salop Infirmary through not having his leg amputated.- In reply to the Coroner, Dr. Buckle said it was not considered safe by the doctors of the institution for the deceased to have his leg amputated.- The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death”, remarking that there ought to be a by-law passed by the County Council to enforce more than one waggoner to take charge.

 

1st February 1908

BROSELEY

DEATH OF MRS. JOHN BARTRAM IBERTSON.- The deceased lady was the third daughter of the late Mr. William Lloyd, the Dean, Willey. She was of a very kind disposition, and had made many friends in the district.  She was always ready to assist in any good cause. She had been indisposed for some time, but her illness was not thought to be so serious; but she passed away very suddenly on Thursday afternoon week. The funeral took place on Monday at Broseley Cemetery. The burial service was most impressively read by the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, Rector of St. Mary’s Jackfield.  Great sympathy was shown throughout the town by tradesman and private residents.  The interment took place in the family grave, which was lined with moss and ferns. Many beautiful floral tributes were contributed by members of the family and others.  Mr C. T. Smith conducted the funeral arrangements.

FUNERAL OF A FORESTER.- After a prolonged illness Mr. William Jones the eldest son of Mr. Joseph Jones passed away yesterday. A large number of friends attended the funeral on Monday, when the remains were interred in the burial ground attached to the Birch Meadow Chapel.  Mr J. Davies carried out the undertaking arrangements.

 

8th February 1908

BROSELEY

DISTRICT COUNCIL, Wednesday. Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), councillors E. G. Exley, T. Doughty, J. Nicklin, T. Instone, G. Keay,  T. I. Griffiths, Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), Geo. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), B. Abberley (water inspector), and B. Oaks (collector).– Mr. Herbert reported that there was no infectious disease in the borough: in fact, there had been no case this year.- With reference to a water course at Jackfield, the Surveyor said the owners of the property had not re-opened it, as instructed by the committee. – Mr. Nicklin contended that then should insist on their instructions being; carried out.- The surveyor was instructed to see Mr. Anderson on the matter.--The Clerk reported that there was a balance in hand on the two accounts of £257 15s. 3d Cheques were required for £358, which left them in debt, the Chairman remarked, to the extent of £100.– Mr. Oakes said there was still £246 to be collected on the general district account and £115 on the water account.–The Surveyor said his expenditure for the month was £31 8s. 11d. and as cheque for £12 was drawn in his favour.- Tenders for 12 months’ scavenging were received, and that of Mr. T. Instone junior, for £18 10s., was accepted.- The estimated expenditure for the ensuing year was considered. The total amount to be raised by a rate was put down at £1,545.–The Chairman said a 3s. rate would bring in £1,548, and therefore there would be no money left to do any extras.– In reply to Mr. Exley the Chairman said the present, rate was 3s. in the pound and the members were of opinion that it would not do to increase it.– It was unanimously resolved that a rate of 3s. be levied.– The water-rate of 1s. 3d. will remain the same.- Mr. Instone said the pavements were very bad; but he considered their own men should repair them.– The Chairman observed that they could not repair the pavements unless they raised the rate. – Mr. Griffiths suggested that they spend less on the highways and more on the pavement. He considered that too much was spent in the repair of the road near the Lord Hill.- Mr. Instone contended that what was spent on that road was required.

 

8th February 1908

BROSELEY

PETTY SESSIONS. Tuesday.

LICENSING BUSINESS. Superintendent Walters reported that during the past year two licence-holders had been proceeded against for permitting drunkenness, one had been convicted, and one case had been dismissed on payment of costs. One innkeeper had been proceeded against for selling to a child beer in an unsealed bottle; and the case had been dismissed on payment of costs.  One licenced house, the Coopers’ Arms, Madeley, was at the adjourned annual licensing meeting at Broseley referred for compensation, and at the adjourned Quarter Sessions at Shrewsbury the removal of the licence was refused, and the house was closed in August last year. During the year 96 persons had proceeded against for drunkenness &c., this showing an increase of 47 persons proceeded against compared with 1906.- the Magistrates Clerk announced that the Bench objected to the renewal of the licence at the Wheat Sheaf beerhouse, Iron-Bridge, and also the Severn Stars beerhouse, Broseley, on the grounds that they were not required of the needs of the district, other houses having better accommodation.- The other licences in the borough were all renewed.- Superintendent Walters was instructed to serve notice of objections to the houses referred to.

A WARNING.- Cecil Brown, engine- driver, The Lloyds was charged with stealing 7lb weight of coal, value 1d., the property of the Madeley Wood Co.- Police constable Wakeley proved the case.- Mr. Oakes, cashier for the company, said they did not wish to press the case, as Brown, who had worked for the company nearly all his life, had always borne a good character.- The Mayor said the case would be dismissed on payment of costs, and Bench hoped this would be a warning to other people.

15th February 1908

Letters to the Editor

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

Sir,- The members of the Council appear to be in a quandary, owing to financial difficulties. Councillor S. T. Instone, at the last meeting, referred to the bad state of the pavements, but the Chairman said they could not be repaired unless they raised the rate, and this they decided not to do.  Councillor T. Griffiths suggested that they spend less on the highways, and more on the pavements, which, in my opinion, would be like “robbing Peter to pay Paul”.

The pavements require attention, undoubtedly, and some of the roads and back streets are in a bad condition. Is there no way out of the difficulty? In am of the opinion that the amount of the rate is not the principal cause of the dead-lock in this case, but the way in which it is distributed.                                    RATEPAYER.

 

15th February 1908

IRON-BRIDGE.

COMMITTED FOR TRIAL.- At a special Police Court on Tuesday, before Councillor J. R. Boulton (mayor), Alderman F. G. Beddoes, and Dr. Collins, William Davies, 15 years of age, residing with his parents at the Half Moon Inn, Jackfield was charge with assaulting Florrie Phaisey, 11 years of age.- Mr R. A. Willcick (Wolverhampton) defended.- After a length hearing the Bench committed accused to take his trial at the Shropshire Assize, bail being allowed.

 

29th February 1908

THE LICENSING BILL

A DRASTIC MEASURE

In the House of Commons on Thursday, Mr. Asquith, the Chancellor of the Exchequer, outlined the provisions of the eagerly-awaited, Licensing Bill.

These are the principle features, in the order in which they were sketched by the Chancellor:-

Compulsory reduction of “on” licences to the proportion of one for every 750 people in the towns and one for every 400 people in the country districts. (The present ratio is about one for every 350 as a whole). Estimated suppression, by Government scheme of 30,000 to 32,000 licences, or one third of the total number. Every licensing authority compelled to prepare a scheme for carrying out the statutory reduction. Such scheme to be submitted to a Central Licensing Commission of three persons, with whom the compensation fund will be vested.

Local licensing authority is to select licences to be extinguished with power of “optional” reduction- i.e. power to reduce licences still further after the above statutory reduction “if they think fit”. Should the local authority fail to prepare or to carry out the scheme, Licensing Commission to act in its place. Compensation is to be paid out of the same sources as in Mr. Balfour’s Act of 1904.- viz., a levy on the trade.

The time limit is 14 years, at the expiration of which period the State recovers “complete domination over licences”. Local option for Wales for additional reduction of licences.  Local option for parochial electors in England to determine whether new “on” or “off” licences should be granted. A simple majority to decide the issue.

Clubs to apply for renewal of registration annually, and to be subject to objections. Clubs of rich and poor to be placed on the same level in this respect.

No clubs to be closed on the ground of “redundancy”. This merely affects public-houses. Plain-clothes police to have power to enter all clubs. Hours of opening on Sundays to be shortened. No change in London, but outside the metropolis no public-houses to open on Sundays for more than one hour in the middle of the day or more than two hours in the evening. “Bone-fide” travellers’ limit during prohibited hours to be six miles, instead of three.

Local justices to have power to say:- Whether any children shall be allowed in a bar; whether there shall be any barmaids; whether public-houses shall be closed on polling days and various other occasions; to punish any breach of these regulations by extinguishing licences without compensation.

 

7th March 1908

IRON-BRIDGE

PETTY SESSIONS – Tuesday.

LICENSING BUSINESS.- The renewal of the licence of the Severn Stars Inn, Broseley was granted.

 

28th March 1908

BROSELEY

DEATH OF AN OLD SERVANT.-  On Sunday the death of Mr. Edward Moore occurred at his home, Church Street Broseley, and the age of 73. The deceased was well known and much respected, had been for 33 years a faithful and trusted servant of Mr. H. H. Potts of Bank House, and at the funeral which took place on Wednesday, there were many tokens of sympathy and remembrance.  The Rev. M. Edwards, rector of Jackfield, officiated, and wreaths were sent by the deceased’s late employer, Mr E. B. Potts and Miss Potts, Mother and Father, Mr and Mrs Heaton (Southport), Mr and Mrs Rimmer, Lizzie, Mr and Mrs. J. R. Greatorex (Mytton Hall, near Shrewsbury), Mr. and Mrs. Lawley, Miss Gibbons (Adcote), Miss Miller (Mytton), Mrs Symmonds, Benthall Hall, fellow servants at the Bank House, &c.

 

4th April 1908

STRANGE AFFAIR AT JACKFIELD.

A FATAL SCRATCH.

At the National Schools, Jackfield, on Saturday. Mr. F. H. Potts (borough coroner) held an inquiry on the body of William Samuel Taylor, foreman tile sorter at Messrs. Maw and Co.’s, tile works, Jackfield, who expired on Thursday week, from blood-poisoning. Mr. K. H. Garvie Government inspector and Mr. J. Nicklin, managing Director of the firm, were present, Mr. F. W. Derry (solicitor). Iron-Bridge, re-presented Messrs. Maw and Co. and the Ocean: Accident Co., and Mr. R. F. Haselwood Bridgnorth appeared on half of the widow.

Alice Taylor, widow of deceased who was foreman tile sorter in the employ of Messrs Maw and Co. tile manufacturers, Jackfield, said deceased was 43 years of age. On the 12th of March her husband went to work as usual, and during the day came home to his usual meals. He came home to his teas at 5-30, when he asked her to look at his thumb on his right hand. She could only perceive a small scratch on the bend of the thumb- it bled a little, and she saw something dark looking in the wound. Witness got a fine needle and tried to pull it out, but she did not succeed. He had nothing done to it that night. Deceased went to work on the following day till nine o’clock and on Saturday till 12:30. Her husband did not work after Monday, which night the wound was much worse. He got gradually worse and died on Thursday, up to which period he was attended by the doctor. Deceased told him he was lifting a sagar down, when he felt something scratch his thumb, but he attached no importance to it, but simply wiped the blood of it.

Dr. Fox-Edwards (Broseley) deposed the deceased came to his surgery on the following Saturday and complained of having hurt his hand at the works two days before.  He examined it, and found that it was a partially healed wound and was very considerably swollen round.  It was a very little wound.  He treated him, and early the next week he visited him at home.  The swelling increased, and he opened it in two places and found no matter.  From that time deceased got rapidly worse and became delirious.  Witness said deceased was suffering from blood-poisoning when he first saw him, and it became general on the Wednesday. He got worse and died on Thursday, from blood poisoning caused by the wound in his hand.

The verdict was that “Deceased died from blood-poisoning resulting from certain injuries accidentally received by him when handling a sagar”.

Mr Derry, on behalf of the firm, expressed their sympathy with the widow and relative of the deceased. Taylor had been in their employ for a period of 30 years, and the regretted his untoward accident which caused his death.

4th April 1908

JACKFIELD

PRESENTATION.- On Tuesday Mr. Perch Hough, slip maker at Messrs. Maw and Co’s was presented with a dressing cabinet contributed by a few of this fellow workmen as a mark of esteem on leaving the works after 20 years’ service to take up an appointment in Manchester. Mr F. Youden, in making the presentation, spoke very highly of Mr. Hough’s qualities as a workman, and wished him every success on his new duties. Messrs. E. Harrison and P. Bagley having endorsed these remarks, Mr Hough responded.

ODDFELLOWS FUNERAL.- On Sunday the remains of the late Mr. William Samuel Taylor of Jackfield, who quietly passed away, from the effects of blood-poisoning, on the 26th ult. were laid to rest, in Broseley Cemetery. The Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, M.A. Rector of Jackfield, was the officiating clergyman. The deceased who was 43 years of age, had been a member of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge of Oddfellows, M.U., held at Broseley, about 25 years. As a mark of respect, therefore, a large contingent of members attended the funeral, attired in the usual regalia. The prescribed address was read with much feeling by Mr. G. P. Bagley (lodge treasurer) at the graveside. The diseased had been in the employ of Messrs Maw and Co. Ltd., as tile-sorter about 30 years and was greatly respected by all who knew him as evidenced by the number of persons present to witness the solemn obsequies. He leaves wife and five children to mourn his loss, for whom much sympathy is felt. Several beautiful wreaths were sent by relatives and friends, including a very handsome one from his fellow workmen.

 

4th April 1908

MUCH WENLOCK.

PETTY SESSIONS.—TUESDAY.

Before Councillor J. E. Boulton (Mayor), Captain Geo. Forester, and Messrs. G. D. Collins, D. L. Prestage, T. Cooke, F. R. Smith, and F. G. Beddoes.

BAD LANGUAGE,- John Smith, Broseley, was charged by Police-constable Lycett with making use of obscene language in his own house, and was fined £1, including costs.

LICENSEE ASSAULTED.— Edward Speke, labourer, Broseley was charged with being drunk and refusing to quit the Prince of Wales Inn, Broseley.—Emma Shaw, the landlady, stated that defendant came to her house drunk. She refused to supply him, and ordered him out of the house, but he refused to go, behaved like a madman, and had to be ejected.— Defendant said he did not know anything about the matter until the following morning.— Defendant was then charged with assaulting Emma Shaw.— Complainant stated that defendant struck her in the chest when she was helping to get him out of the house. The blow made her sick and ill.— For refusing to quit Speke was fined 5s. and costs, and for the assault 20s. and costs.

STEALING LEAD.— George Charles Hughes, a tramping plumber, was charged with stealing a quantity of lead, value 2d., from a void house at Jackfield, the property of Messrs. Exley and Sons, tile manufacturers of the same place.— Police constable Reeves stated that he saw prisoner come from a void cottage, and on searching him witness found the lead produced in his pocket.—Prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sent to goal for 14 days.

 

18th April 1908

IRON-BRIDGE

PETTY – SESSIONS.- Tuesday

Before Councillors J. E. Boulton (Mayor) Captain Geo. Forester, and Messrs. G. D. Collins, D. E. Prestage, T. Cooke, F. R. Smith, and F. G. Beddoes.

LICENSEE ASSAULTED.- Edward Speke, labourer, Broseley, was charged with being drunk and refusing to quit the Prince of Wales Inn, Broseley.- Emma Shaw, the landlady, stated that defendant came to her house drunk. She refused to supply him, and ordered him out of the house, but he refused to go, behaved like a madman, and had to be ejected.- Defendant said he did not know anything about the matter until the following morning.- Defendant was then charged with assaulting Emma Shaw. – Complainant stated that defendant struck her in the chest when she was helping to get him out of the house. The blow made her sick and ill.- for refusing to quit Speke was fined 5s. and costs, and for assault 20s. and costs.

STEALING LEAD.- Charles Hughes, a tramping plumber, was charged with stealing a quantity of lead, value 2d., from a void house at Jackfield, the property of Messrs. Exley and Sons, tile manufacturers of the same place. – Police constable Reeves sated that he saw the prisoner come for a void cottage, and on searching him witness found the lead produced in his pocket.- Prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sent to gaol for 14 days.

 

18th April 1908

JACKFIELD

Presentations.- A very pleasing event took place at Messrs, Maw and Co.’s on Saturday last, the occasion being the presentation of seven volumes of Dickens’s works (contributed by the whole of the office staff) to Mr. L. F. Bartle as a slight recognition of their respect for him and their high appreciation of his sterling qualities during a period of 12 years, in the course of which he has occupied with conspicuous ability a responsible position in the drawing office. He leaves with the good wished of his colleagues to take up residence at Penmaenmawr, North Wales. Mr John Bradburn (head of faience department) in an appropriate speech, made the presentation; and Mr. Bartle thanked his colleagues and numerous friends for their highly appreciated gift, which he said he should treasure up as a souvenir of the many happy days he had spent amongst them. Mr. Henry Hill, who has been employed for some time, as a draughtsman in the faience department, and is now leaving, was at the same time made the recipient of a box of mathematical instruments by the office staff. Mr. Bradburn in this case also made the presentation, and Mr. Hill appropriately acknowledged the gift.

 

18th April 1908

PETTY SESSIONS.- Tuesday

Before Councillors J. E. Boulton (Mayor), Alderman A. B. Dyas, W. J. Legge, and F. G. Beddoes, Dr. Collins and Mr. F. R. Smith.

 INNKEEPER FINED.- Lucy Speke, landlady of the Napoleon Inn, Broseley Wood, was charged with permitting drunkenness.  Mt. G. H. Espley defended. Edward Speke, collier, Broseley, said he went to the Napoleon Inn with his brother about 3-30 p.m., and remained there drinking pint after pint until seven o’clock in the evening. Defendant and her husband served him with the drink.  Witness added that he and his brother each drunk about 12 to 13 pints of beer, and he was drunk when he left the house. He was never asked to leave the house.- Margaret Bevan, single woman, Broseley, stated that the last witness lodged with her. She went to the Napoleon Inn after Edward Speke about 7-30 p.m., thinking that he had been there quite a long enough as he had neither had dinner, nor tea. He was very drunk, and his brother promised to look after him.- Emma Shaw, landlady of the Prince of Wales beerhouse, Broseley said that Edward Speke came to her house about eight o’clock in a drunken condition, and she refused to serve him.- John Rogers, labourer, gave corroborative evidence.- Police-constable Lycett said that the defendant admitted to him that Speke and his brother had called at the Napoleon Inn, and had had several pints of beer, which she and her husband served.- Defendant, on oath, stated that she and her husband had been licensee of the Napoleon for seven years, and that Edward Speke was her brother-in-law. She admitted that she and her husband supplied their brothers-in-law with 11 or 12 pints between them.  They were not drunk when they left her house, neither could she say they were perfectly sober.- James Speke, defendant’s husband, gave corroborative evidence.- Thos. Speke, H. Ball, and John Cross also gave evidence for the defence.- The Bench imposed a fine of £5 and £1 12s. costs.- The charge against the defendant of selling beer to a drunken person was withdrawn. Messrs. Boulton, Dyas, and Legge did not sit in this case.

 

2nd May 1908

BROSELEY.

COURT LEET.— The annual dinner of this association, one of the oldest in the county, was held on Tuesday at the Lion Hotel. Mr. Geo. Potts presided, and Mr. J. Meare occupied the vice-chair. The health of Lord Forester, the donor of the dinner, was enthusiastically drunk. Before dinner the jury, of which Mr. T. Hill was foreman, met at, the court house, when Mr. E. B. Potts (secretary) swore in the constables for another 12 months.

ALL SAINTS’ CHURCH.— At Broseley Parish Church on Sunday evening Mr. F. Francis gave an able rendition of the tenor solo, “Thou didst not leave His soul in hell” (Messiah), and the choir gave a fine interpretation of the chorus, “Worthy is the Lamb”, under the capable direction of Mr. W. H. Griffiths (choirmaster). Miss Watkis, L.R.A.M., presided at the organ. At the close of the service Dr. Corbett again favoured the music-loving people of Broseley with an organ recital, which was a rich musical treat.

FUNERAL OF Mr T. ROBERTS.— On Wednesday the remains of the late Mr. Thomas Roberts of Fox House), Broseley (who passed away early on Monday morning at, the Lady Forester Hospital), were laid to rest in the cemetery. The service was impressively performed by the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards. M.A. (Rector of Jackfield). The deceased was 46 years of age, and was greatly respected by all who knew him, as evidenced by the large number of persons to witness the solemn obsequies.

FUNERAL OF MRS ELLEN DAVIS.— The remains of the late Mrs. Ellen Davis (relict of the late Mr. Francis Davis. who in conjunction with his brother, the late Mr. George Davis, carried on, with considerable success, for a number of years, the Dunge Brick and Tile Works) were laid to rest in the family vault at Broseley Parish Church on Wednesday, amidst every manifestation of respect. The officiating clergyman was the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, M.A. The deceased will be much missed by the poor, to whom she was most kind. Many wreaths were contributed by relatives and friends.

PETTY SESSIONS.- Tuesday

ASSAULT.— William Smith, labourer, Broseley, was charged with assaulting his mother-in-law, Sophia Hill. It appeared from the evidence for the prosecution that when complainant was standing in the street defendant came out, of a public-house, struck her, and knocked her down.—Defendant denied the charge. — He was fined 2s. 6d. and costs, or 14 days’ imprisonment.

30th May 1908

BROSELEY

DEATH FROM LEAD-POISONING.- On Friday evening week Mr. F. H. Potts (borough coroner) held an inquiry concerning the death of Richard Walker, married man aged 39 years, tobacco pipe dipper. Mr. F. R. Haslewood (Bridgnorth) appeared on behalf of the widow; and Mr. G. H. Espley (Iron-Bridge) represented Mr. Southorn and the Insurance Company.  Mr. Garvie (Inspector of Factories) was also present.- Florence Walker, wife of deceased, stated that her husband had been in the employ of Mr. Southorn, tobacco pipe manufacturer, Broseley, for 11 years.  He had only been ill for six weeks, and was attended by Dr. Edwards.- Alice Corfield, single woman, said she had worked with deceased for two or three years. He had complained of shortness of breath before he was taken ill.- William Edwin Southorn, owner of the works and Dr, Edwards having given evidence, the jury returned the following verdict:- “That deceased died from lead-poisoning incidentally contracted whilst following his employment”.

 

 

13th June 1908

MADELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

A meeting of this body was held on Wednesday; present:- Alderman A. B. Dyas (chairman), and F. G. Beddoes, and Councillors B. Maddox, J. D. Benbow, F. S. Withers, W. Roberts, J. H. Webster, E. Fletcher, W. F. Bryan, with Mr. F. H. Potts (town clerk) and other officers.

Mr Maddox said it was decided some time ago to set aside the Haynes legacy towards the erection of a free bridge over the Severn. He was pleased to tell them that the public had responded well to the call. It would be a traffic bridge.- (hear, hear)- which would be adequate to carry the ordinary traffic of the district. He asked the committee to give instructions to the borough treasurer to hand the Haynes legacy over to the Bridge Committee, to be spent in the manner. He moved a resolution to that effect, which was seconded by Mr. Benbow, and carried.

 

20th June 1908

BROSELEY.

FUNERALS.— On Tuesday the remains of Mrs. Harriet Nevitt (relict of Mr. J. B. Nevitt of Broseley), who passed away on Saturday at her residence, Barratt’s Hill, were laid to rest in the cemetery. The, Rev. J. Marsden Edwards (rector of Jackfield) was the officiating clergyman. The deceased, who was 68 years of age, was well known and esteemed. A number of beautiful wreaths were sent by relatives and friends.—The same day the remains of Miss Kate Susan Broadhurst (only daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Henry Broadhurst of Cape Street), who died yesterday week, were laid to rest in the family vault in the Parish Church-yard. The service was performed by the Rev. O. Fleming Lamb (rector). The deceased, who was 24 years of age, had been a member of Broseley Congregational church and choir, also a teacher in the Sunday school, and was much esteemed by all who knew her, as was evidenced by the large number of friends present at the church. The tradesmen and inhabitants of the town showed their sympathy by putting up shutters or drawing blinds during the obsequies. Twenty-four scholars (attired in white, each carrying wreaths or flowers) from the Broseley Congregational School were present at the funeral. A large number of wreaths were contributed by relatives and friends. The funeral arrangements were carried out in a highly satisfactory manner by Mr. James Davies

 

4th July 1908

BROSELEY

The REV. W. S. HALL has become Baptist minister at Broseley

DISTRICT COUNCIL, Wednesday.- Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors J. Nicklin, E. G. Exley, T. Doughty, and Messrs. F. H. Potts (town clerk), George Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Abberley (water inspector) and E. Oakes (tare collector).- Mr. Herbert reported the district free from notifiable infectious disease. He also reported a number of nuisances, which were ordered to be abated.- The Clerk reported that there was a balance in hand on the general district account of £158, and an adverse balance on the water account of £197.- The Chairman observed that they were £38 to the bad. The collector was instructed to ask the tenants of all tied public houses in the district to pay their rates within 14 days.- Mr Abberley informed the meeting that 55,000 gallons of water had been used at the day schools during the past quarter, which he considered was rather excessive.- The managers paid £1 a year for the water, the same price as at other schools.- Mr. Abberley estimated the cost of conveying the water to Mr. Hill’s house at Lady Wood at £8 5s., which will be paid by the tenant and agent. The work had not yet been proceeded with.- Mr. Oakes said the rate was coming in very badly; £500 was yet to be collected on the general district rate.- After some conversation the collector was instructed to issue the final notice for the clearing of the rate.

 

18th July 1908

NEW BRIDGE OVER THE SEVERN

AT JACKFIELD

On Tuesday last the inhabitants of the district of Iron-Bridge and Jackfield were agreeably surprised by seeing truck loads of timber and building materials carted on to the side of the new bridge at Upper Jackfield, this being the first practical step in commencing the actual work of erecting a free passage across the river for the first time in its history.

It is quite five years since a new resolution passed the Council that a committee to be elected to consider the question of approaching the trustees of the old iron bridge in a view to making it toll-free and after several attempts to obtain the much-desired results the efforts of the committee were fruitless. About two years ago a second committee was appointed to consider the question, again an appeal was made to the County Council for a grant towards a bridge; but the appeal met with no success. Nevertheless, the committee kept the question alive, seeking for ways and means to enable them to introduce a scheme whereby the difficulties which have existed in having to cross the river by the old and dangerous means of ferry boats may be obviated. About this time an event happened which gave the committee a very good start. A Mr. Haynes, who died in Montevideo, left a legacy of nearly £700 to the Municipal Authority of the town of his birth.- Iron-Bridge. After considerable correspondence, which was successfully conducted by Mr. F. H. Potts (the town clerk of the borough), the legacy came into the hands of the Madeley District Council, and was set aside by them to create a fund towards erecting a bridge. At first it was possible, seeing that a sum of at least from £1,4000 to £1,500 was required for the purpose. So an appeal was made to the public for subscriptions, which met with the unanimous support of all classes of the community. With this encouragement the committee obtained estimates for a foot and also a traffic bridge, and it was found, on receiving the figures of the Hennebique Ferro-Concrete Company, that with an extra effort it would be possible to erect a traffic bridge in this material. The system is that of reinforced concrete, and has proved in various parts of England and on the Continent a reliable one. The new bridge will consist of three spans of 60, 68 and 60 feet, it will be 15 feet in the clear, and will be tested on completion with a 12-ton steam-roller. The cost of the bridge, with extras, is estimated at £1,700 complete, and will be adequate for the traffic of the district; and towards the amount the committee have yet to raise about £350 to £400. Lord Forester had very kindly consented to give the landing on the Jackfield side of the river, and the Lord of the Manor of Madeley has shown equal generosity in giving the landing on the Madeley side. The contractors are the Liverpool Hennebique Concrete Company, Ltd., and it is anticipated that in four months the bridge will be completed, and thus a new era will be commenced in the history of this part of the Severn Valley. To the hundreds of working men employed at the various industries at Jackfield it will provide a great boon in removing, not only the weekly toll, which in some instances is found to be a heavy tax, but will provide a safe passage by night and day, especially in times when the river is in high flood. It will also provide the means of carrying ponderous weights, such as steam-rollers, which are now in use on the roads in the borough. To the Haynes legacy the praise is due for giving such an excellent start to the scheme, and secondly to the admirable way in which the inhabitants have responded already with their promises in bringing the scheme to its present stage.  The committee are yet hoping to receive the generous help of not a few who reside outside the district when they come to learn of this undertaking they have in hand.

The exact site of the bridge is near to the Lloyds gate on the Madeley side of the river.

No little credit is due to Councillor B. Maddox J. P., for his untiring efforts in the matter; in fact he is the originator of this scheme, which will prove a boon to the whole neighbourhood. Mr. Chas S. Henry, M.P. has subscribed £150 towards the cost.

 

1st August 1908

WENLOCK BOROUGH COUNCIL

The quarterly meeting was held on Thursday; present:- Councillor J. E. Boulton (Mayor), Alderman A. B. Dyas, F. G. Beddoes, T. Cooke, G. Lloyd, D. L. Prestage, Captain Geo. Forester, Councillors J. Davies, C. Edwards, W. F. Bryan, T. R. Horton, W. Roberts, J. Nicklin, J. Roberts, T. Griffiths, J. D. Benbow, J. H. Webster, B. Maddox, T. Morris, W. J. Milner, W. Bishop, F. Withers, G. Keay, T. Instone, and Mr. F. H. Potts (town clerk), and other borough officials.

Alderman Cooke presented a report of the visitors to the Joint Lunatic Asylum, which showed that £797 had been spent in alterations and improvements to the building, including £316 in respect to the isolation hospital. Mr. Cooke added that the hospital was built, and had already been used. There were 57 patients chargeable to the Madeley Union.- The report was adopted.

Alderman Beddoes told the meeting that the Main Roads Committee had accepted an offer of £140 from the County Council towards the cost of repairing the Wharfage Severn wall at Iron-Bridge.

The surveyor was instructed to use Dhu stone on all main roads, except on steep hills.

The Bridge Committee reported that provisional agreements were in course of completion of securing the landings for a free bridge on both sides of the river at Lloyds Gate, Iron-Bridge, and in addition a special committee elected at a public meeting at Iron-Bridge had accepted the tender of the Liverpool Concrete Co. to erect a bridge complete for the sum of £1,406.  It is considered that with extras the total cost will be about £1,700. This sum would be realised by the Haynes legacy and voluntary subscriptions.  The Special Committee referred to now made formal application to the Council for leave to erect the bridge on the sites secured by the Council.- Mr. Maddox moved that the report be adopted, and Mr. Prestage seconded.-  After some discussion the Clerk remarked that he had arranged with Lord Forester ad the Lord of the manor of Madeley for the sites, and they had been given to the borough.- Mr Maddox said he hoped every member would support the object, which was the greatest advantage that could be possibly given to the inhabitants of the borough. The work has been of a gigantic nature, and their application that day was merely formal.
- The report was adopted.

 

1st August 1908

BROSELEY.

ACCIDENT.- On Wednesday a serious accident occurred to a youth named William Sergeant, 17 years of age, son of William Sergeant of Dog Row, Church Street, who, in attempting to get upon the shafts of a railway wagon in High Street, fell off, and was kicked by the horse attached thereto. He was removed to the Lady Forester Hospital.

 

1st August 1908

JACKFIELD INNKEEPER’S FAILURE

At Madeley County Court Offices, on Wednesday, before Mr. Registrar Potts, Martha Britton, innkeeper, formerly of the Summer House Inn, Jackfield, appeared for public examination. Her total debts were about £82, and there was a deficiency of about £60.- Replying to Mr. F. Cariss (Official Receiver) debtor stated that she was a widow. Her husband died about eight years ago. Previous to that they had kept the inn for several years, she managing the business, and her husband working as a collier. At that time she brewed her own beer, and the turnover (as represented by the malt consumed) must have been about £10 per week. There was a very good profit on home-brewed beer, but recently she had been selling brewery ales, on which the profit to the retailer was very small. This,  and a large falling off in trade owing to the cessation of works in the neighbourhood, were the causes of her present condition. She was driven to file her petition owing to a writ from a malting firm; but she would admit it would have been better for the creditors if she had done it some years ago. She had now left the inn, and was staying with relatives near Llangollen.

 

 8th August 1908

BROSELEY

DISTRICT COUNCIL, Wednesday.- Present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors E. G. Exley, T. Griffiths, G. Keay, T. Doughty, J. Nicklin, and T. Instone, Messrs, F. H. Potts (town clerk), G. Stevenson (surveyor), H. Herbert (sanitary inspector), E. Oakes (rate collector), and E. Habberley (water inspector).- the Inspector reported that there were two cases of scarlet fever in the town, but they were of a mild character.- The surveyor’s attention was drawn to the loose stone at Legge’s Hill and Ball’s Lane. He was ordered to cleanse the water course at Cob Well, Broseley Wood.- Mr. Keay suggested that they should obtain their own steam roller, but the Chairman reminded him that is was a question for the Main Roads Committee.- The Surveyor presented tenders for hauling during the next 12 months, and that of Mr. T. Instone, junr., was accepted.- The Collector submitted a list of arrears from tenants of tied houses, and after some consideration it was decided to take the necessary proceedings for the recovery of the rate.

 

5th September 1908

WILLEY POOLS, LINLEY,

Three Miles from Broseley, Four from Bridgnorth, and Four from Wenlock.

CHAS. E. AINSWORTH, F.A.I.

(Assisted by B. H. Capsey)

Has the favour of instructions from Miss Bentley (who is giving up the Holding), to SELL by AUCTION, on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 23rd, 1908, 5 Head of CATTLE, 2 PIGS, OUTDOOR EFFECTS and HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, including several Articles of Antiquity.

 

3rd October 1908

IRON-BRIDGE

ACCIDENT.- A youth named William Jones, son of the landlady of the Black Swan, Jackfield, was riding his bicycle on the Wharfage on Saturday night, when he accidentally fell off, and was so badly stunned that he was unconscious for an hour.  He was attended to by Dr. Whitfield.

 

10th October 1908

BROSELEY DISTRICT COUNCIL

This body met on Wednesday; present:- Ald. D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors T. Doughty, T. S. Instone, and G. Keay, and the officials.

Mr. Herbert reported the district free form notifiable infectious disease.

Mr. T. Jones (assistant overseer) asked the Council if they could do something with respect to the numbering of the houses. He had to meet the Revising Barrister, and would like to be able to tell him something.- the Clerk said it was the duty of the Council to name the streets, and to decide what numbers they should put on the houses. After that they should give the occupiers notice to put them on their own doors.- In reply to Mr. Doughty, the Clerk said it was a tenant’s mater. If the occupiers refused to do the work the Authority could do it and charge the tenant with the expense. Unless the houses were named or numbered before the next Revision Court, the Barrister would strike the voters off the list.-  A sub-committee was appointed to go into the matter.

Mr Keay brought up the question of lighting. He said there were too many lamps in a portion of the High Street.  He contended there should be a lamp erected in Speed’s Lane.- The surveyor was instructed to visit the place, and make a report at the next meeting.

Mr. Keay said that something ought to be done at Legge’s Hill for the safety of pedestrians. He suggested a hand-rail.- The surveyor was instructed to inspect this place, and make a report thereon.

Mr. Doughty called attention to a dangerous place near Jackfield Church, and Mr Stevenson was asked to visit the place.

 

7th November 1908

BROSELEY SANITARY COMMITTEE

The annual meeting was held on Wednesday; present:- Alderman D. L. Prestage (chairman), Councillors E. G. Exley, J. Nicklin, T. Doughty, G. Keay, T. Instone, t. I. Griffiths, Mr. F. H. Potts (town clerk), and other officials.

As this was the first meeting of the committee, Mr. Nicklin said he had great pleasure in proposing that Alderman Prestage continue in the chair for another year. He had more experience than any other member on the committee, and even the youngest councillor knew how capably he discharged his duties (Applause.)- Mr. Exley seconded the motion, which was supported by Mr. Doughty, and carried unanimously.- Mr. Prestage thanked the speakers for their kind remarks.

Mr. Herbert reported three cases of scarlet fever in one house; he could not account for the origin of the case-they were not connected with any schools.

Mr. Abberley reported that all the water mains were free from leakage.- The officer was instructed to get out a fresh estimate for conveying the water to Mr. Hill’s residence at Lady Wood, Jackfield.- The estimate for taking the water to the Summerhouse public-house was submitted and it was stated that Lord Forester would have to pay it.- Mr. Abberley reported that there was a good supply of water.

Mr. Oakes told the meeting that the general district rate was closed, but £17 15s. 10d. was to be collected in rents on the water account. -  The Clerk said there was a balance in hand on the general account of £334, and a debt of £115 on the water account. There was, however, a balance in hand on the accounts of £221.- A cheque for £40 was drawn in favour of the surveyor.

With reference to fixing a lamp at Speed’s Lane, the surveyor told the committee that there was no gas-main. A letter was read from the Gas Company offering to lay the service and supply a pillar for the sum of £6.- Mr. Keay was of the opinion that the Iron-Bridge Gas Company should be asked to tender in future.- Mr. Nicklin said they would have to lay their own mains. Mr. Keay said that it would pay the committee to lay the mains.- Mr. Nicklin did not think they would gain anything by it.- The matter was adjourned for a month.

Mr. Keay suggested that a hand-rail be erected at Legge’s Hill, which would be a great help to pedestrians.- After some conversation the surveyor was instructed to prepare an estimate for the work at the next meeting.

Messrs. Prestage, Exley, and Nicklin were re-elected on the Joint Water Committee, and Messrs, Prestage, Exley, Keay, and Instone were appointed on the General Purpose and Main Roads Committee.

Mr. Nicklin called attention to the road leading to the Birch Meadow Chapel, and the surveyor was instructed to attend to the matter.- Mr. Keay called attention to the condition of Quarry Road, which the surveyor was ordered to visit and repair.

The committee then considered the question of naming and numbering the streets.

 

14th November 1908

BROSELEY.

“TOBACCO-USING A CAUSE OF DISEASE”.—This was the subject of a paper read by Mr. Joseph Jones of Fox Lane, Broseley, on Monday evening, under the auspices of the Broseley branch of the Liberal and Labour Association. Mr. James E. Hartshorne presided over a good attendance. In the course of his paper Mr. Jones said there was never so great an interest among the people, as well as the medical profession, to discover the causes of the various maladies which afflict the human race as now. As correct notions of the real nature of disease have obtained more and more extensively, the fact that the best mode of curing and stamping out diseases is to remove the causes has come to be more generally recognised, and the work of searching out these causes has been pushed with ever-increasing vigour and earnestness. A careful scrutiny has been made of the air we breathe, the water we drink, the food we eat, the clothing we wear, the houses in which I we live, of our occupations, our amusements, our various pursuits for wealth or pleasure, and, in fact, of all our habits of life together with all our surrounding circumstances. In the course of this search it had been discovered that tobacco was indisputably a serious cause of disease. This statement was not based on the evidence of those who were the special enemies of the custom of tobacco-using, but upon the testimony of eminent scientific men and physicians of the widest observation and experience. Mr. Jones next sought to show the effects of tobacco on the blood, throat, lungs, heart, nerves, &c.; also as conducive to dyspepsia and cancer, concluding in forcible language with its hereditary effects. Among those who took part in the discussion which followed were: Messrs. T. E. Hartshorne, A. Evans. A. Malpas, G. Ball, W. Jordan, W. Lago, and T. Garbett. A vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. Jones for his interesting palter, which was duly acknowledged.

 

21st November 1908

BROSELEY

DEATH OF MR. W. EDGE. – On Wednesday the death occurred of Mr. William Edge, at his residence, Mill House. Deceased who was 64 years of age, had held the position of relieving officer in connection with the Madeley Union, for the Broseley, Jackfield, and Much Wenlock district, for a number of years, and nearly three years ago he was appointed registrar of births and deaths under the same authority in the districts mentioned, both office having been carried out by him in a highly-satisfactory manner. He had been connected with the Wesleyan Methodist denomination from his youth, and was a member of the church and superintendent of the Sunday School at Broseley. He also held the office of circuit steward for some years, and was for some time a local preacher.

 

21st November 1908

BROSELEY

THE DEATH occurred yesterday week of Mr Alfred John Pountney, Hockley Road. Deceased was 57, and had acted as town postman for a number of years, but owing to ill-health he had to resign that position. He had also been custodian of the Town Hall for some years, and was a member of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge of Oddfellows up to the time of his death.- On Tuesday the remains were interred in the cemetery.  The funeral cortege was met at the church gates by the Rev. J. Marsden Edwards, M.A. (rector of Jackfield), who also conducted the service at the cemetery. The Rev. W. Rowlands M.A. (curate), officiated in the church. As a mark of respect to the deceased a good number of members of the “Rose of Sharon” Lodge of Oddfellows attended the funeral, and the following local postmen represented Broseley Post Office:- Messrs. J. Lovatt (Broseley), F. Powell (Willey), G. Lewis (Shirlett), and Joseph Jones (Benthall). The address prescribed by the Order of Oddfellows was read at the graveside by Mr. G. P. Bagley. Choice wreaths were contributed by relatives and friends.

 

19th December 1908

IRON-BRIDGE

NEW-BRIDGE.- Owing to the rapid rise of the Severn, the work at the construction of the new bridge has been suspended

JACKFIELD ENCAUSTIC TILE WORKS.-Mr Chas. C. Bruff, M.I.M.E., one of the proprietors of the famous Coalport china works, has recently been appointed managing director of the above works.