Events in and around Brompton 1860’s: 1865

Below are a sample of events from 1865 in Brompton, Kensington etc. that were happening around George Borrow and his family. For an overview and further information please see the Brompton in the 1860’s page (on links to the left).

At the start of the year George Borrow and his family had been living at 22 Hereford Square for just over four years and development pressures were starting to appear.

January

1.—The animal products’ collection and part of the structural collection of South Kensington Museum would be closed in order to prepare for removal of part of the Iron Building. [wlo 17 Dec 1864]

1.—The Christmas Dinner, provided by the Dramatic Performance (see 20 Dec 1864) was held at Chiswick Hall with 78 poor and mainly elderly people enjoying joints of beef, carved by Rev. W. G. Cookeesley and Rev. T. L. Dale, followed by delicious puddings. [wlo 7 Jan]

2.—The West London Hospital committee of management met when the treasurer announced that since April 1864 £742 16s. 7d. had been received in donations, with expenditure £725 16s. 11d.  Donations announced at the meeting included £10 from W. H. Simpson, 6 Warwick Gardens and £5 Brentford Gas Company (subscription). [wlo 7 Jan]

4.—Fulham Burial Board met at 6 p.m. to receive sealed tenders from parties willing to contract for draining and layout the grounds purchased by the Board, situate on the north side of the road from Fulham Town to Hammersmith, 5 acres. (see 25 Aug 1864) [wlo 10 Dec 1864, wlo 7 Jan]

7.—Hammersmith Soup Kitchen would open, the committee (on 31st December 1864) having asked for all subscriptions to be paid to Mr. Morison, The Broadway and Mr. Smith Queen’s Terrace, treasurers, at once. [wlo 7 Jan]

8.—Four boys, James Lovell, Joseph Whitney, William Hacket and William Coxford, were found lying on straw in a shed in Stephen Bird’s brickfield, the Potteries, Kensington.  Coxford said he went to Marylebone Theatre and went into the shed for a night’s rest.  Unacceptable but discharged. [wlo 14 Jan]

9.—The North End Philanthropic Society met at the Hand and Flower and welcomed new members: Mr. Storey, Adam and Eve Tavern, Mr. Winstone, Duke of Sussex Tavern, Kensington.  Also, Mr. Dayman, police magistrate, had given £2 to the poor box. [wlo 14 Jan]

10.—Warning to Railway Travellers [wlo 14 Jan]

10.—The Hammersmith and Chiswick Philanthropic Society would hold a special meeting at 8 p.m. at the Prince of Wales, Albion Road, to receive the auditor’s report and elect officers for the forthcoming year. [wlo 7 Jan]

14.—Geo. L. Eyles, Furnishing Undertaker, est. 1772, 14A Waterloo Street, Hammersmith, offered the VERY LOWEST POSSIBLE CHARGES, particularly for walking or carriage funerals to Metropolitan Cemeteries. [wlo 14 Jan]

16.—William Simpson appeared at Hammersmith Police Court charged with buying a recruit’s shirt for 1s. 6d. the previous night in a public house in “The Rookery” (i.e. Jennings Buildings, Kensington).  The recruit, Longbottom, was drunk and wearing the shirt, but didn’t tell Simpson it was military property.  Discharged. [wlo 21 Jan]

17.—John Bennett, F.R.A.S., gave a very interesting and humorous lecture at Norland Chapel, Norland Road, Notting Hill, on A Watch.  A very warm vote of thanks was given afterwards. [wlo 21 Jan]

18.—Miss G. Hope announced that the Ladies’ School, 3 Holland Terrace, Holland Road, Kensington, would re-assemble on this date. [wlo 14 Jan]

19.—Henry Smith, a young man, was charged with being drunk on horse-back at Hammersmith Police Court.  Just after 1 p.m. on the previous day Smith rode over Stanford Bridge at a fast/reckless pace.  Some working men managed to stop the horse.  Smith said horse ran away but admitted being inebriated.  Fined 10s. [wlo 21 Jan]

20.—O’Dell T. Hill would lecture on Fast Life at the School Room, William Street, North End at 7.30 p.m.  Front seats 4d., back seats 1d., any profits to St. Mary’s Alterations and Improvements Fund. [wlo 14 Jan]

21.—C. Clements, tailor and outfitter, had removed from 110 King Street, Hammersmith, to 117 King Street.  A well selected stock of Cheviots, Angolas, &c. suitable for the season was available. [wlo 21 Jan]

23.—J. Colbourne, Coborg House, 19 High Street, Kensington, would start a fortnight sale of Brussells Tapestry, Kidderminster and Felt Carpets.  Intending purchases should avail themselves of the opportunity with the Brussells stock particularly worthy of notice. [wlo 14 Jan]

24.—At 5 p.m. William Stow, a letter carrier belonging to the Notting Hill district, was attacked in Talbot Road by a group of rough-looking men who fled into The Talbot.  Stow followed them into the pub. but a large crowd of men prevented him apprehending the man who initially punched him. [wlo 28 Jan]

25.—At Kensington Vestry an application was made by Mr. Gray, Hornton, for the use of the Vestry Hall for a meeting of the Kensington Auxiliary Bible Society.  Granted free of expense. [wlo 28 Jan]

26.—At 6.30 p.m. at Victoria Hall, Archer Street, Notting Hill, friends of St. Mark’s Church Society (formed to help develop the musical side) had a dinner in the basement under the hall with Rev. E. K. Kendall in the chair.  Afterwards all went into the hall where madrigals and glees were sung. [wlo 28 Jan]

27.—O’Dell T. Hill would against lecture at the School Room, William Street, North End at 7.30 p.m, this time on A Trip to Connemara.  Other lectures and readings would follow on subsequent Fridays. [wlo 14 Jan]

29.—A little after 5 p.m. two young men were taken into Kensington Police Station for throwing snowballs in Kensington Gardens.  On leaving the station Thomas William Western called “now, altogether” and a “snow ball riot” ensued. [wlo 4 Feb]

30.—Turnham Green Collegiate School, Bolton House, would re-open and had vacancies for two boarders.  French, German, Music, Drawing, Dancing and Drill.  Further particulars from H. E. Kincaid. [wlo 28 Jan]

31.—Mr. G. J. Hills would give a musical entertainment, A Musical Ramble, at Chiswick Hall, under distinguished patronage.  Mr. Hill would be assisted by Miss Maron Ray, Miss Agnes and Master G. F. Hills.  Tickets 2s. etc. [21 Jan]

February

2.—Mr. F. H. Hearn, Devonshire Street, Hammersmith Road, was summoned for getting into a 2nd class carriage to Farringdon (labelled “Kensington”), when possessing a 3rd class ticket.  Apparently such customers should travel 3rd class to Notting Hill and would then be allowed to travel 2nd class to Kensington. [wlo 4 Feb]

4.—William Kidd wrote to the newspaper to complain about the alarming state of the 500 yard footway from New Road, Hammersmith, to Shepherd’s Bush station.  After every shower the footpath was “an American swamp” and after two hours it beat Bunyan’s “Slough of Despond.”  It was really grievous that the “fair creatures [i.e. females] were driven into the carriage road to pick their way of large and rough stones.” [wlo 4 Feb]

6.—Under a headline of “Fire! Fire!! Fire!!!” T. J. Howell & Co., West London Wheel Works, announced that they would resume business on this day and hoped for a continuance of previous patronage. [wlo 11 Feb]

7.—The New West London Fancy Rabbit Club would hold their half-yearly show at Mr. Hewett’s, Pembroke Arms, Pembroke Square, Kensington.  Mr. Palmer would take the chair at 8.30 p.m. [wlo 4 Feb]

8.—Fulham Board of Works heard from the General Purposes Committee on the proposed Fulham Railway: “That the report of the surveyor, stating that from manner of that line crossing the roads generally, and of Crown Road and the Broadway especially, the said line is most objectionable, the Board be recommended to oppose the same.” [wlo 11 Feb]

9.—W. H. Browne lectured on The Chemistry of Explosive Bodies, and their Application to Modern Warfare,” at Newton House School, Vicarage Place, Kensington.  Experiments were performed and the lecture “was listened to with marked attention by the juveniles present.” [wlo 18 Feb]

10.—The Rev. W. G. Cookeasley would read from The Merchant of Venice and give a talk on Shakespeare at St. Peter’s Boys School.  Proceeds St. Peter’s Church. [wlo 4 Feb]

11.—John Shepherd, 10 Lower Phillimore Place, Kensington, advertised in the paper that after this date he would not be answerable for any debts of his wife, Emma Shepherd, may incur. [wlo 14 Jan]

11.—The Metropolitan District Railway advertised shares to raise capital for the new line which would form part of the “inner circle.”  Proposed stations were: Richmond Road [West London Extension], Kensington, Gloucester Road (South Kensington), Cromwell Road (Brompton), Sloane Square, Victoria Station, Westminster Bridge, Charing Cross, Norfolk Street (Strand), Bridge Street (Blackfriars) and Cannon Street. [wlo 11 Feb]

13.—Mr. R. B. Starr, of the Starr Bowkett Building Society, would deliver a free explanatory lecture at the British Schools, Hornton Street, Kensington, at 8 p.m.  The Society now had over 25,000 members and advanced £250 or £300 to members without interest, repayable by weekly, monthly or quarterly instalments. [wlo 11 Feb]

16.—Edwin Avery, clerk to Fulham Union (workhouse), invited applications for Male and Female Superintendents of the Vagrant or Tramp Wards.  Salary 14s. a week (for the two) with rations, lodging, washing &c.  A married couple without children would be preferred. [wlo 18 Feb]

17.—Around 10 p.m. fire broke out at Mr. Stainsby’s, greengrocer and fruiterer, 8 Young Street, Kensington.  After an hour the flames were extinguished by Mr. Palmer and the volunteers with the Kensington engine, but premises destroyed.  Insured. [wlo 25 Feb]

18.—A letter (“another female correspondent”) appeared in the paper: “Sir, I always said, says I, my sister being onedcated, but fond of medlin with what sint her bisness, will get into trouble sum de, and sure enuft shes dun it.  Now I beleives that the purpose rate man is iley spectable, and that it is a trumpt up story about that goods and chattels bisness at a late our at nite. ...” [wlo 18 Feb]

21.—James Brown was travelling in a 3^rd class carriage at Notting Hill station and presented the return part of his ticket with the date scratched out to collector Atkinson, a youth.  The ticket was later shown to have been issued on the 18^th at Kensington (i.e. not valid).  At the trial Mr. Ivey, Masboro’ Road, Hammersmith, who had purchased Brown’s ticket as well as his own, proved it was issued on the 21^st.  Case dismissed with warning passengers must be careful about tickets. [wlo 4 Mar]

22.—The Victoria Railway bridge over the Thames at Pimlico (then two lines only), had become insufficient and various companies had banded together to widen the it.  Lord Harris, London, Chatham and Dover Company, laid the first stone on this day, watched by many, including Sir Morton Peto. [wlo 25 Feb]

22.—Mr. Green (Kensington Vestry) had written to the Commissioners of Woods and Forests about the footway from Church Street on the side of the barracks.  Mr. Banting said if the tree at the end of the footway were cut down the lamp would show.  Mr. Green suggested another lamp.  Subject dropped. [wlo 28 Feb]

23.—Four boys, John Woodsow, John Clark, Charles Wilcox and Thomas Mumford, were charged with throwing stones and breaking public lamps in Fulham Road.  Adjourned as identity of boys disputed. [wlo 25 Feb]

24.—Several householders in Kensington were summoned at Hammersmith Police Court for not sweeping the snow off the footways in front of their premises.  Almost all fined 1s. “as a warning to be more careful next winter.” [wlo 4 Mar]

25.—The English and Foreign Library Company had appointed various agents in the district.  Kensington: Mr. Brassington, 2 High Street; Mr. Rist, 1 Edwardes Terrace; Knightsbridge: Mr. Bolton, 39 St. George’s Place; Sloane Street: Mr. Mowels, 142 Sloane Street, etc. [wlo 25 Feb]

26.—Thomas Fielder, an elderly man, followed three little girls who had come out of Sunday school, offered them oranges, and behaved “in a very disgusting manner.”  Observed by John Bingham, 28 Pembridge Crescent, Notting Hill, he was arrested and later remanded and refused bail.  Three months hard labour. [wlo 4 Mar, wlo 11 Mar]

March

2.—The Hammersmith and Chiswick Philanthropic Society would hold a Tradesman’s Ball in Victoria Hall, Archer Street, Notting Hill, in aid of funds for the West London Hospital.  Single tickets 6s., couples 10s., refreshment included and dancing starts at 9 p.m. [wlo 18 Feb]

3.—The Kensington Park Dramatic Club performed Macklin’s Man of the World and Buckstone’s farce A Dead Shot at the Bijou Theatre, Bayswater in aid of the sufferers of the Surrey Theatre (which had been destroyed by fire). [wlo 11 Mar]

4.—Mrs. Hyder, Registry for Servants, had removed from 9 Bedford Terrace, Campden Hill, to 9 The Terrace, Kensington, where ladies and respectable servants would meet with her best attention. [wlo 4 Mar]

5.—The Rev. J. Sidebotham, Metropolitan Tabernacle, would preach morning and evening at Spring Vale Lecture Hall, Blythe Lane, Hammersmith.  Services would now be held every Sunday at 11 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. [wlo 4 Mar]

6.—Edwards’ Quadrille Party would be held at 8.30 p.m. at Palace Avenue Assembly Rooms, Kensington, and on each Tuesday following.  Tickets 1s. from the Musical Repository, 19 Church Street, Kensington or Spalding’s Library, Notting Hill. [wlo 4 Mar]

7.—At Renewal of Licenses at Kensington Vestry Hall it was said there were 354 in the distinct (including Chiswick, Acton and Willesden) and very few complaints.  Sir Richard Mayne alleged that Cremorne Gardens was breaking the law allowing access on Sundays via refreshment tickets, but the magistrates dismissed this. [wlo 11 Mar]

8.—Fulham Board of Works learnt that the Imperial Gas Works, Sands End, was to expand and take various pieces of land, under which the main western sewer was due to pass.  Mr. Barr said he’d advised the Vestry to watch the progress of the (sewer?) Bill but nothing had been done and it was now too late. Mr. Lukin, clerk, to find all information and pass to sewer committee. [wlo 11 Mar]

9.—E. Wheeler, F.R.A.S. would lecture on Optics and Optical Illusions at Newton House School, Vicarage Place, Kensington.  Kalotrope and diagrams would be used with friends of the pupils invited to attend. [wlo 4 Mar]

11.—A train left Paddington station with Mr. Superintendent Tyrrell, Mr. Superintendent Higgins of the Great Western railway, and Inspectors Craig and Daniels.  The train had been fitted with a new type of brake patented by Mr. Clark which enabled the 50 mph. train to stop in 32 seconds over 300 yards.  The company were delighted. [wlo 18 Mar]

12.—The Rev. William Norval, M.A., would preach a sermon on behalf of the Parochial Girls School at St. Mary’s, North End. [wlo 11 Mar]

14—Two boys, William Fodey and William Arnold, were charged with stealing a skye terrier and collar belonging to Thomas Field, a carpenter, who was working on top of a house in Walnut Tree Walk, Brompton, on Monday.  Arnold said his 4 year old brother, Billy, had run off with the dog.  Dog valued at £1, remanded, following day discharged as no prosecutor. [wlo 11 Mar]

16.—The Rev. Crammond Kennedy, New York, would deliver an address on the Abolition of Slavery in America at West End Chapel, Hammersmith, Rev. P. Bailhache in the chair.  Collection to go to feeding, clothing and educating the emancipated slaves (2 million). [wlo 11 Mar]

18.—J. Ferrior, Builder, Shepherd’s Bush Common, was advertising.  He was a manufacturer of Vases, Figures, Fountains &c., did monumental and gravestone work for cemeteries, busts of persons (living a dead) plus gave lessons on architectural and geometrical drawing. [wlo 18 Mar]

19.—The many people who had left St. John’s Church to attend Fulham or St. Mark’s lost a good bit of fun as a battle between the Minister and Organist took place.  The organist played the Chaunt whilst the Minister read the Venite; the Minister read the Gloria but the Organist wouldn’t play; etc.  The Minister’s Warden had dismissed the choir and this trouble had ensued. [wlo 25 Mar]

21.—Dr. Dick would commence a course of miscellaneous lectures at 3 p.m. starting with Scripture’s Teachings applied to the Solution of Important Social Questions.  Admission by written application only. [wlo 18 Mar]

21.—At the Annual Licensing meeting John Palmer, 39 Gloucester Road, Hereford Square, Brompton, applied for and was granted a license for his house (i.e. Hereford Arms). [wlo 25 Mar]

22.—The Fulham Board of Works heard that the Fulham Railway Bill would now almost certainly pass.  Mr. Bean greatly regretted they had not opposed the Bill at the proper time.  Mr. Strathers said they were penny wise and pound foolish: they should have hired counsel.  Mr. J. Keen said they were “a little too late as usual.” [wlo 25 Mar]

23.—At the Fulham Board of Guardians it was reported that neither Fulham nor Hammersmith had paid any sum in; the former owed £550, and the latter £900, with the Board’s liabilities necessitating prompt payment.  The Fulham Relieving Officer needed 616 loaves and £43. [wlo 25 Mar]

25.—Messrs. Watson and Sons, solicitors, offered a two guineas reward for the marriage certificate of William Harrison to Mary Harris.  Both were servants in the Earl of Lonsdale’s when resident in Fulham and Cavendish Square, sometime between 1808 and 1815. [wlo 18 Mar]

25.—Margaret Fussell’s Pupil Teachership, a Parish Story, by an Inhabitant of Kensington, was available to District Visitors, Schoolmistresses etc. for 24 stamps.  Apply Mr. Ellis, 16 Lower Phillimore Place, Kensington. [wlo 25 Mar]

26.—Kensington Chapel Sunday Schools, Hornton Street, would celebrate their 56th anniversary with sermons in the Chapel by Rev. J. Baldwin Brown and Rev. William Landells, both on behalf of the schools. [wlo 18 Mar]

27.—Sarah Green was in Brompton Cemetery when she took a wreath from a grave and walked off with it.  At Hammersmith Police Court the following day Green claimed it was the impulse of a moment “through a little boy who was standing by her side.”  Fined 5s. [wlo 1 Apr]

28.—The people of Fulham had determined on stopping the enlargement of the Imperial Gas Works and would have a petition to sign at the principal tradesmen’s houses on this day or the day following.  “The Gas Nuisance must be Stopped.”  Mr. Broadbent had obtained an injunction as they were damaging his crops, but expansion continued. [wlo 25 Mar]

30.—Fulham Union wanted a Medical Officer with the appointment to be made 13th April.  Must be a registered Medical Practitioner and possess the qualifications required by the Poor Law Board.  No details of remuneration given. [wlo 1 Apr]

April

1.—On and after this date the Metropolitan railway would reduce return fares between all stations to 2d.  Hammersmith to City trains would now run every 20 minutes, no longer stop at the Kensington Line junction and take 30 minutes. [wlo 1 Apr, wlo 18 Mar]

3.—At the Committee of Management meeting for the West London Hospital a number of donations were announced: Duchess of Cambridge, £5; Princess Mary of Cambridge, £1 (annual); J. S. Mansfield, £5; Chiswick Trademan’s Ball, £3. [wlo 15 Apr]

4.—At Hammersmith Police Court John Acton, a well-dressed young man, was charged with being found under the table of William Stevenson, 34 Addison Gardens South, Kensington, between 1 and 2 a.m., supposedly for an unlawful purpose.  He pleaded being let in by a lady servant. [wlo 12 Apr]

5.—The London City Mission would hold a meeting in the Vestry Hall, which had been given free of charge by the Vestry. [wlo 25 Feb]

7.—A Grand Concert in aid of a reduced widow would take place at Victoria Hall, Archer Street, Westbourne Grove.  Taking part would be the Misses Aitkens (soprani), Madame Parry, Miss Maud Clifford etc. (contralti), Mr. R. Pain, Mr. Cater etc. (tenors), Mr. Lesingham, Mr. J. Woolams (baritones) etc. [wlo 25 Mar]

7?.—A major meeting was held in the National School Room, Walham Green, to consider what to do about the Imperial Gas Company’s Bill to take 100 acres and turn it into “a monster gas nuisance”.  It would “endanger the health of the inhabitants, and deteriorate the value of property.”  Resolutions put and agreed. [wlo 15 Apr]

8.—The 83rd Starr Bowkett Building Society, offices 1a Hornton Street, Kensington, announced that nearly 500 shares were taken up.  Members obtain £300 repayable by instalments of £30 per annum. [wlo 8 Apr]

8.—The Metropolitan and Great Western Railway pointed out that Hammersmith Station was close to Hammersmith Bridge, the best place to view the Oxford and Cambridge Boat race.  Train to run every 10 minutes. [wlo 8 Apr]

11.—At midnight “a gentleman of Northend,” Fulham, being taken dangerously ill, took two hours to find a medical man, 5 being run for.  The paper suggested ladies and gentlemen in the area should be prepared to send to London. [wlo 15 Apr]

11.—Robert Winning, 14, was re-examined at Hammersmith Police Court on the charge of stealing a duck from Turnham Green Common.  Robert’s mother said he was a good boy, had never been in trouble before, but others led him astray.  Discharged with mother bound over for good behaviour. [wlo 15 Apr]

13.—There would be a grand performance by the Stand Company at Beaufort House Theatre, Walham Green.  A comedy, Short and Sweet would be H. J. Craven’s drama Miriam’s Crime.  Stalls 4s. etc. [wlo 8 Apr]

14.—About 12.45 a.m. a fire broke out in the back premises of Mr. Smith, upholster, 26 Archer Street, Notting Hill.  Police raised the alarm and using a ladder got the inhabitants safely out from the 2nd floor.  Firemen Elijah Nokes and Samuel C. Smith were on the roof when it collapsed.  Nokes died of injuries later that day whilst Smith was in hospital with hopes of recovery. [wlo 22 Apr]

15.—The editorial discussed the “remarkable silence” of the intentions of the Fulham Railway Bill.  It would put a railway through the Market Garden grounds of Fulham Fields, create an unsightly girder bridge across the Broadway, deprive Hammersmith of fresh vegetables, etc.  Who were the promoters of this “wild goose scheme”? [wlo 15 Apr]

16.—[Easter Sunday.] A solemn High Mass would be sung at Holy Trinity Church, Brook Green, at 11 a.m.  The Choir would sing Robert’s Mass in E., Ett’s “Hæc Dies,” and Nixon’s “Victimæ Paschall.” [wlo 15 Apr]

17.—The South Kensington Museum would be open for free from 17th April to 22nd April inclusive (i.e. Easter holidays), from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.  The Animal Products’ Collection would be in the Arcades overlooking the Royal Horticultural Gardens. [wlo 15 Apr]

19.—A meeting was held at Mesrs. Pearson’s, High Street, Notting Hill, to decide the best means to help the widow and young children of the young fireman Elijah Nokes, and Samuel C. Smith, who had been seriously injured and had a wife and six children to support (see 14 April).  Subscription formed; over £31 given at meeting. [wlo 22 Apr]

19.—The Arlington Park Cricket Club, Turnham Green, would hold a meeting in the back chamber at the Duke of Sussex Tavern, Turnham Green.  Gentlemen wishing to join should contact the landlord, J. Golidge. [wlo 1 Apr]

20.—P.C. Ahearne was on duty in High Street Kensington when he say a rough-looking boy, Henry Nicholls, put his hand in a gentleman’s pocket and pull out a handkerchief.  Henry was arrested (known to police for some months) and later that day remanded. [wlo 22 Apr]

22.—John Miller, Carpet and General Furnishing Warehouse, 23 Broadway, Hammersmith was advertising carpets, carpets, carpets.  200 pieces of rich Tapestry Brussells, 2/6½–3/6 per yard, 500 all wool Kidderminster, 2/8–3/9 per yard etc.  Carriage free within 10 miles. [wlo 22 Apr]

23.—Two anniversary missions sermons would be preached at Oakland’s Chapel, Shepherd’s Bush: Rev. W. H. Hill, Calcutta in the morning, and Rev. Chas. Short, Swansea, in the evening.  Collections in aid of the London and Baptist Missionary Society. [wlo 22 Apr]

24.—Mrs. Williams, 2 Cave’s Terrace, New Road, Hammersmith, would open a Preparatory School. [wlo 15 Apr]

26.—The Kensington Park Dramatic Club would perform School for Scandal and The Unfinished Gentleman at the Bijou Theatre, Victoria Hall, Archer Street, Baywater, with proceeds to the West London Hospital. [wlo 22 Apr]

30.—Rev. S. B. Bergne, Secretary to the British and Foreign Bible Society would preach at Kensington Chapel at 11 a.m., Rev. T. Baldwin Brown, Clayland’s Chapel, Brixton, at 6.30 p.m.

May

1.—The London General Omnibus Company would commence a new service.  Starting outside The White Hart, West End, Hammersmith, it would run via Hammersmith New Road, Starch Green, Shepherd’s Bush, Notting Hill, Bayswater, Oxford Street and then on via Charing Cross to Bank. [wlo 8 Apr]

2.—Phœbe Williams appeared in Hammersmith Police Court charged with being drunk the previous night, and biting P.C. 214 while in the execution of his duty.  She’d been ejected from the Rising Sun, Fulham, but would not go away.  P.C. called, became violent etc.  Fined 10s. or seven days. [wlo 6 May]

4.—The annual dinner of the Kensington Benevolent Society would be held at the Adam and Eve Tavern, The Terrace, Kensington, with dinner on the table at 7 p.m. precisely.  Tickets 3s. 6d. [wlo 22 Apr]

6.—S. Gibbs, News-agent (widow of the late Mr. Allen Gibbs), 5, Myhill’s Terrace, Albion Road, Hammersmith, intended to carry on the business for the support of her young family. [wlo 6 May]

8.—The South Middlesex Rifle Volunteers would perform Retribution followed by Cool as a Cucumber at the Beaufort House Theatre.  Tickets 1s. to 3s., doors open 7.30 p.m. [wlo 6 May]

9.—A Grand Ball would be held at the Willis’s Rooms, King Street, St. James’s, by the South Middlesex Rifle Volunteers, with 17 lady patronesses, including the Marchioness of Downshire, Hon. Mrs R. Cecil Curson etc.  Gentleman’s ticket 15s., ladies, 10s. 6d. [wlo 29 Apr]

12.—Hammersmith Police Court heard the case of a 12 year old boy and his sister, whose father, a missionary had died three weeks ago, leaving them £2 10s. to take them to their grandmother, Mrs. Jacobs, of Pool [Poole?]  On their way to the railway station they lost the money, and decided to walk to Pool, and were eventually taken in and sheltered by a kind Irish lady.  It turned out they had run away from their stepmother, fearing the workhouse. [wlo 13 May]

13.—William Tailby informed the gentry of Hammersmith and Shepherd’s Bush that he had opened a Cricket Ground at his Angelsea Tavern, Wellington Road.  Reasonable terms, spacious marquee, first class refreshments, five minutes walk from railway station. [wlo 13 May]

13.—Lewis Dennis thanked people for supporting him since he succeeded his uncle, Mr. Gawtrey, and having purchased the premises of Mr. Hetherington, 10 Lowndes Terrace, Knightsbridge, or rather had been to law to get the Dennis / Hetherington partnership dissolved, hoped to resume business on May 22. [wlo 13 May]

15.—William Howitt, better known as William Jackson the American Deer, of King Street, Hammersmith, appeared in the Police Court charged with obtaining 20s. from a 12 year old delivery boy in Notting Hill on the previous Friday.  Witnesses proved Howitt was in the City at the time.  Howitt discharged, but unhappy as he’d been held since Saturday.  [wlo 20 May]

16.—The Finance committee of the Fulham Board of Works to discuss how to pay for watering the streets.  Mr. Bird, solicitor, had recommended to charge it at an equal rate on the whole assessable property in the areas affected.  The committee didn’t like this and deferred the question to the following week. [wlo 20 May]

17.—Kensington Vestry consider whether awarding Mr. Bazalgette (Chief Engineer, Metropolitan Board of Works) and his three assistants the sum of £10,000 out of the rates.  They didn’t like it at all, and Mr. Brown said he wasn’t surprised the engineer wasn’t satisfied with £1,500 a year when the chairman got £2,000. [wlo 20 May]

18.—The Parochial Officers of Hammersmith “beat the bounderies” on this day, starting at 8.30 a.m. and finishing at 5.30 p.m.: an encroachment was found at Norland Chapel, new stones were ordered for the Signal Box and Clarence Terrace.  In St. Mary’s Terrace, the builders had removed the stones.  On the inspection they met the Acton officials on the same purpose, accompanied by a band. [wlo 27 May]

20.—Freehold building land on a 99 year lease, close to Kensington (Metropolitan) Station and partly occupied by semi-detached villas, let to highly respectable people, was available.  Apply to Mr. Crookes, Brook Green, Hammersmith. [wlo 20 May]

22.—Lewis Dennis & Co., having purchased the stock of Mr. Hill, Linendraper, &c., of Kingston-on-Thames, would hold a sale at 10 Lowndes Terrace, Knightsbridge.  Very advantageous circumstances. [wlo 13 May]

23.—The Prince of Wales laid the foundation stone for St. Mary’s Hospital, Paddington (the existing building being too small).  Various local groups had raised the money, including the Foresters who had held two fetes at Lord’s Cricket Ground. [wlo 13, 27 May]

24.—The 1st Middlesex Engineer Volunteers would perform Faint Heart Never Won Fair Lady, The Rent Day and Perfection; or, the Lady of Munster at the Royal Bijou Theatre, with the corps band as orchestra.  Prices 1s, to £2 2s. [wlo 20 May].

27.—Morgan’s Dining and Coffee Rooms, High Street, Kensington, wanted a young woman as a housemaid and to assist in waiting.  One used to business preferred. [wlo 27 May]

28.—Whilst Henry Barr of the Hand and Flower, Sand’s End, Fulham, was ill in bed on Sunday, his barmaid served two females whom she knew.  At the trial for Sunday trading witnesses to Barr’s good character for the last 10 years came forth, and case was dismissed after 2s. costs were paid. [wlo 10 June]

29.—William Thompson appeared before Hammersmith Police Court charged with stealing 10 lettuces from the grounds of Mr. Bagley, Turnham Green.  Witness James Casey saw prisoner, challenged him, and eventually was struck and thrown to the ground.  Fined 10s. plus 10d. in value, or 14 days imprisonment. [wlo 3 June]

31.—The Kensington Vestry heard that Mr. Bazalgette would not be getting the £10,000 gratuity and were very pleased [see 17 June].  Inhabitants of Brompton road had written to condemn Mr. Broadbridge’s attendance at a meeting on the South Kensington New Road bill, after they had strongly objected to it.  Shopkeepers in Brompton road feared losing trade. [wlo 3 June]

June

1.—The Hammersmith and City Railway would start running a late train at midnight from Farringdon Street to allow theatre-goers to get back to Paddington, Shepherd’s bush etc.  [wlo 3 June]

2.—The Metropolitan Railway’s Dog Show at Islington would be open on the 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th of June, with King’s Cross the nearest railway station. [wlo 3 June]

5.—[Whit Monday]  The fifth Foresters’ Fete to help the West London Hospital would be held in the grounds of Beaufort House.  Three brass, drum & fife bands would be joined by others.  Performing would be Mrs. J. F. Brian the popular serio-comic singer, Paddy Brogden the comic Irish emigrant, James Rowell, tenor, etc.    Aunt Sally, photographer plus dancing on the green.  1s. adults, 6d. children under 12. [wlo 3 June]

5.—A cricket match would be played between a side of married men and a side of single men at the new Anglesea Cricket Ground, Wellington Road, Hammersmith at 2 p.m.  Sweepstakes, climbing greasy pole, first class refreshments from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. first. [wlo 3 June]

6.—The South Kensington Museum would be open for free for the whole week (starting Whit Monday).  The collection of animal products in the South Arcades of the horticultural gardens would be exhibited Monday and Tuesday, the loan collection of portrait minutes would be open etc. [wlo 3 June]

8.—A numerous meeting of Fulham Parishioners attended a meeting which voted thanks to the 800 subscribers against the Imperial Gas Company’s Bill (for expansion), which, presented by the Bishop of London and Lord Ravensworth, caused the rejection of the said bill.  Any expansion “would have enabled them to do an irremediable injury to the health of the residents and property of the district.” [wlo 17 June]

9.—Robert Drew, an old, grey-headed man, appeared at Hammersmith Police Court.  The previous day, around 3 p.m., when drunk and with a pipe and blanket, he tried to enter the Carmelite Order (Roman Catholic) Chapel in Church-street, Kensington.  On being declined entry he offered to fight the Rev. Father Irving and was removed by two constables.  He returned 20 minutes later and interrupted a service, started fighting and hit Francis Foley under the ear.  Eventually removed kicking and foaming at mouth.  Fined two sureties of £10 each to keep peace for 6 months, locked up in default. [wlo 17 June]

10.—The West London Observer carried a special report on the exhibition of Portrait Miniatures at the South Kensington Museum (see 6 June): there were 3081 portraits on display, many of marvellous beauty and by the most celebrated painters and enamellers.  They lamented that the art is being lost now that “the cheap mechanical process of photography” has been invited. [wlo 10 June]

11.—Richard White, carver and gilder of Hammersmith Gate, died suddenly of heart disease, at 5 a.m., aged 48.  A well-liked business, a fluent speaker, best known as a member of the Wesleyan Free Church, North End where he was a class leader for many years and involved in the Sunday school as teacher or superintendent for 20 years.  He leaves a widow, Hannah, but no children. [wlo 17 June]

14.—Samuel Cornell, 1 Devonshire Terrace, Kensington and clerk to the Kensington Guardians, advertised the contract for the supply of 300 tons of Lambton’s or Hetton’s Wallsend coals plus 150 tons of furnace coals for the workhouse.  No less than 20 tons in any delivery, no delivery charge.  Contractor to be selected 29 June. [wlo 17 June]

15.—At 5 p.m. the Rev. Alex J. D. D’Orsry would commence a course of three lectures on public reading and speaking at St. Barnabas’s Lecture Room, Holland Park Road, Kensington.  For syllabuses and tickets apply at Mr. Rist’s, 1 Edwardes Terrace. [wlo 10 June]

15.—A Mrs. Hughes appeared before the Kensington Guardians with an infant in her arms to apply for relief.  Her late husband was potman at the Northumberland Arms, Brompton Road, and had died suddenly about two weeks ago.  Granted 4s. and three loaves weekly for three months. [wlo 24 June]

16.—A bazaar of useful and ornamental work would be held in the School-Room, William Street, North End, Fulham in aid of the Church Alteration and Improvement Scheme.  Refreshment stall and piano music, open 2–8, entrance sixpence (was also on at higher price previous day). [wlo 10 June]

17.—The Albert Bridge Company, incorporated by Act of Parliament (1894) was advertising that it had £90,000 in capital in £10 shares and power to borrow £30,000.  Investors were sought and the company already had a responsible contractor to build their suspension bridge over the Thames from Cheyne Walk, Chelsea, to Prince Albert Road, Battersea.  Income of tolls of £6,153 per annum for Battersea Bridge were cited.  [wlo 17 June]

19.—Professor Anderson, the Wizard of the North, would give an entertainment in natural magic in aid of funds for the West London Hospital at Beaufort House, Walham Green. [wlo 3 June]

23.—The Navvies and Labourers building the North End Sewer, around 160 in total, were entertained to a substantial supper by James Wild, next to his grounds in Edith Road.  Revs. W. M. Statham and R. Macbeth said a few words afterwards and a copy of the New Testament was given to each man. [wlo 1 July]

24.—The Hammersmith and City, Metropolitan, and Great Western Railways published their June timetable.  On week days trains Farringdon to Kensington were every 30 minutes between 8.05 a.m. and 11.05 p.m., in the area stopping at Edgware Road, Bishop’s Road, Notting Hill, Kensington, Shepherd’s bush and Hammersmith. [wlo 24 June]

25.—Two boys, Huxley and Dean, were arrested for playing pitch and toss (it was Sunday) at South End, Kensington.  At Hammersmith Police Court on Monday Joseph Dickinson, a coachman, 3 Clarendon Mews, complained of the boys and it was revealed that a Constable had been positioned there to catch offenders.  Fined 2s. 6d. each. [wlo 1 July]

26.— The newspaper reported the Royal Cremorne Gardens had been “extraordinarily popular this season”.  The new Fire Work Temple, illuminated Shakespearian Temple, Mr. Jones’ painting of Florence (60,000 feet), the improved plant collection (superior to Kew and Hampton Court), Mr. Charles Hengler’s equestrian troupe (opened this day) and Miss Emily Cooke’s “Balloon” performances were particularly noted. [wlo 1 July]

28.—Mr. Lovely reported to The Fulham Board of Works that the Fulham Railway Bill had passed its third reading in the Lords.  The Board also approved a report asking it to restrain the Imperial Gas Works at Sand’s End. [wlo 1 July]

28.—Henrietta Clarke, George Borrow’s step-daughter, marries Dr. William MacOubrey, a physician of 134 Sloane Street, at Kensington Parish Church (St. Mary Abbots). [source: see our William MacOubrey page]

29.—A well-attended public vestry was held at Chiswick to consider purchasing four acres of Glebe (Church land) for a parish cemetery, chiefly for the poor.  Mr. Clark (Churchwarden) objected: the land was unsanitary as it could not be drained, unlike the pockets of the ratepayers.  The Vicar favoured a Cemetery, Dr. White thought property values would suffer etc.  Meeting voted against. [wlo 8 July] 

July

1.—In view of the forthcoming dissolution of Parliament, Robert Culling Hanbury, Brick Lane, Spittlefields, and “Enfield”, 7 Charles Street, Berkeley Square, both took out front page advertisements to address the voters. [wlo 1 July]

2.—The Scotch Church, Foxley Road, Kensington, would have Rev. Dr. Schwartz to preach at 6.30 p.m. as part of their anniversary celebrations. [wlo 1 July]

3.—The Fulham Burial Board wanted an active, intelligent and well-educated man as resident superintendant of the Cemetery.  Salary £60 per annum. (including coals and gas).  Candidates should apply to James Parker, clerk, and attend the meeting at 6.30 p.m. on 11th July. [wlo 8 July]

3.—Philip Maguire, a postman, was delivering letters to the house of William Moyle, 2 Silchester Road, Notting Hill, when he was attacked by Moyle’s dog (which had previously attacked him as well as 6 to 7 other postmen).  At the trial George Trickitt, auxiliary letter-carrier, gave evidence that the dog had bitten him etc.  Moyle’s said it was an “affectionate” dog to protect his premises.  Fined 40s. [wlo 15 July]

5.—J. W. King, secretary of the Albert Bridge Company, gave notice that applications for shared (from London) would close on this day, with applications from the Country closing the following day. [wlo 1 July]

5.—Around 3 p.m. fire broke out on the premises of Mr. Crow, carpenter, 3a, Orchard Terrace, Earl Street, Kensington, but with the speedy arrival of the Kensington Volunteers the flames were confined to an out-house, which was completely destroyed. [wlo 8 July]

6.—The Rev. R. G. Baker, 77, Vicar of Fulham, married Miss Sullivan, 40, at All Saints’, Fulham, the Bishop of London presiding, with Lord Palmerston and many local gentry attending.  Miss Sullivan was Palmerston’s niece.  [wlo 1 July]

7.—The Horse Show at the Agricultural Hall, Islington would commence and run until the 13 (Sunday excepted).  The Metropolitan Railway advertised it and suggested that King’s Cross was the nearest station. [wlo 8 July]

8.—An editorial entitled “The Eyesores of Kensington” condemned the Jennings’ Buildings: Mr. Ingham, magistrate, said they were a lawless neighbourhood, the Vestry were horrified when the recently visited, there were daily scenes of riot and sanitary improvements would not help.  Only recently posters had appeared on the walls.  The only solution was demolition. [wlo 8 July]

10.—In Ravencourt Park, by permission of Mrs. Scott, the Richmond eleven would play the Ravencourt eleven.  Admission 6d., refreshments available.  Any surplus generated would be given to the West London Hospital. [wlo 8 July]

11.—The Annual Festival of St. Stephen’s Schools, Shepherd’s Bush, would be held.  Children to assemble 2 p.m. for prayer, followed by procession to Wormholt Farm.  Full brass band and refreshments.  Children take tea at 5 p.m.  Admissions 1s. adults, 6d. children. [wlo 17, 24 June]

12.—The [Kensington] Committee for inspecting into the sanitary condition of the Jennings’ Buildings visited the buildings and reported: the Sanitary Inspector should visit each dwelling and present a report to the Committee. [wlo 15 July]

12.—Cremorne Gardens had their first Juvenile Festival which was well attended by fashionable company.  There was a performance by the circus, balloons, horse races, a chariot race, donkeys, clowns, a pony ridden by a monkey etc.  [wlo 15 July]

13.—Fulham Union advertised tenders for altering the male and female idiot wards; the tailor’s and shoemaker’s workshops; for erecting am infirmary for contagious diseases and a boundary wall etc. [wlo 15 July]

13.—A good-looking young man of colour who gave his names as John Jumbo was charged by Joseph Tavener, constable of Kensington Square, with being drunk and disorderly, biting him and tearing his coat (when taken to the Station).  Mr. Ingham asked if John could speak English: Joseph said he could but pretended not to when begging, instead using hand gestures.  John had been before the court a short time ago.  14 days hard labour. [wlo 15 July]

15.—Noting that the Fulham Railway across the Broadway had received Royal Ascent, J. A. Smith, Auction, Estate and Land Agency Offices, 56/57 King Street Hammersmith, offered to prepare claims for those whose property or income would be destroyed or depreciated by the said Railway. [wlo 15 July]

15.—C. B. Hammond, 76 High Street, Notting Hill, would be selling watches, clocks and jewellery at 25% off, as his house was being demolished by the Metropolitan Railway. [wlo 15 July]

16.—Elizabeth Morris (wife of Charles the painter), 20 Onslow Dwellings, found her neighbour, Mary Baker, 51, leaning against a wall and assisted her to her bedroom, where Baker expired about 20 minutes later.  Thomas Whitefield, 27 Thurloe Place, Brompton, carried out a post-modem: cause of death was a spasm in the glottis. [wlo 22 July]

17.—Around 11 p.m. Francis Hill, landlord of The King’s Head, Earl’s Court, old Brompton, was assaulted by William Naylor, who had seen someone he wanted to fight, and been forbidden fighting in the pub by Francis.  After assaulting Francis, William drank Maria Haslet’s beer by mistake, at which point she “gave him one or two”.  William fined 10s. or 7 days hard labour. [wlo 22 July]

18.—Charles Russell Watts, ironmonger, 201 Brompton Road was fined 7s. for obstructing the pavement with some wire-work goods.  Messrs. Jacob, 137 Brompton Road, were fined 4s. 6d. for similarly allowing a bedstead on the footway. [wlo 22 July]

19.—Mr. E. T. Smith of Royal Cremorne Gardens would hold a second Juvenile Festival following the success of the first one on 5th.  Entertainments would include Grand Circus at 2½, dogs and monies at 3½, ballons at 4, Sea Bear at 5, then races with 60 horses, jokies and monkey-riders.  Fireworks at 10.  Admission 1s. [wlo 15 July]

20.—Mr. B Hall, boot and shoemaker, No. 2 Portland Place, Notting Hill, attended Kensington Board of Guardians to have James Fitzpatrick, a parish boy, apprenticed to him.  James Ives, builder, Denbigh Terrace, was allowed Joseph Wells, another parish boy, for a month’s trial as apprentice. [wlo 22 July]

22.—The editorial of the West London Observer discussed the plans for widening Church Street, Kensington, which was a notorious bottle-neck, and would get worse once the railway (now High Street Kensington) opened.  The Vestry wanted it, the ratepayers wanted it, businesses wanted it, but St. Mary Abbott’s graveyard would have to go.  Those objecting were put down. [wlo 22 July]

24.—The Bishop of London would consecrate Fulham Cemetery at 6 p.m.  The new cemetery was condemned in the letters page: “All the money they borrowed gone and what have they got for it?  A ugly nondescript building, ricketty railings which anybody may pull down, a great portion of which fell down without pulling . . . ” [wlo 22 July]

24.—At Hammersmith Court, Charles and Frederick Lockyer and John Lewis were charged with breaking windows in the Anglesea Arms, Swan Lane, Brompton, landlady Mrs. Pitcher.  After being turned out for riotous behaviour Frederick broke two windows with his fist (needing hospital treatment) and Mrs. Pitcher received a cut over the eye.  Lewis fined 20s. or one month, the Lockyers discharged after Mrs. Pitcher did not press charges. [29 July]

25.—The Kensington Guardians visited the Plashet School (children chargeable to the parish).  They found opthalmia prevalent, especially among the boys.  Otherwise the school was clean and had good order.  The Guardians left £2 with the matron for a treat for the children. [cn 29 July]

26.—After the routine business there was a long discussion at Kensington Vestry on the Jennings Buildings and a Committee was appointed to make sanitary improvements. [cn 29 Jul]

27.—At Chelsea Vestry the report of A. W. Barclay, M.D., medical officer, was read.  Whilst the mortality in Chelsea was below the average for London there had been a high number of deaths from diarrhoea in the last fortnight: 11 children and infants. [cn 29 Jul]

29.—B. Carter, Cadogam Zinc Works, 5 Bond Street, Chelsea (opposite the Red House) manufacturer of Sky-lights, Gutters, Wind Guards, etc. advertised a large assortment of stock and experienced workmen to fit them. [cn 29 Jul]

29.—The West London Times, which had run for 285 issues, changed its name to the Chelsea News.  Letters to the editor etc. should be sent to R. Land, 11 Sherwood Street, Regent Street. [cn 29 Jul]

29.—The Bishop of London would lay the foundation stone of St. Andrew’s School, Latymer Road, at 7 p.m., after which he would deliver a address.  Further information from A. Dalgarno Robinson, M.A., incumbent. [wlo 29 July]

29.—The building strike partly ended with the carpenters and joiners going back to work with wages increased to 7½d. an hour and “after the 28th proximo, agreeing to wait for the other until March next.”  The masons appeared to still be on strike.  [wnl 5 Aug]

31.—Around 9 a.m. fire broke out in the basement of the premises of Samuel Parkhouse, draper, 2 Clifton Terrace, Fulham Road (Regent House).  Watling Street fire engine and the other parish engines attended, and the damage done was not considerable.  Insured. [cn 5 Aug]

August

1.—Members of the Berkeley Amateur Dramatic Club made their debut appearance at Oakley Hall, Chelsea, where they performed Moncrief’s farce The Spectre Bridegroom; The Bragging Bravoes of the Brigand Band by Messrs. Bird and Wright; etc.  The well-filled room enjoyed the evening immensely. [cn 6 Aug]

2.—At 4 a.m. the mutilated body of Daniel Salkilld, 45, of 60 Charlotte Street, Shoreditch, a master bricklayer, was found near Green Lane Bridge on the Hammersmith and City Railway.  It appears Daniel was crossing the line to get to Notting Hill Station.  He left a widow and two children, the eldest a cripple unable to work. [wlo 5 Aug]

3.—At the Kensington Board of Guardians a letter was received from Croydon Union who were intending to bind a poor boy to Mr. W. Brown, shoemaker, 5 Earl Street, Kensington.  They sought information and Mr. Edmonds would make inquiry. [wlo 5 Aug]

3.—John Beal, a builder of Tregunter Road, Brompton, was summoned by Alfred Horwood, Fulham Road, for keeping a large unmuzzled, ferocious dog.  Beal was building (houses?) in Walnut Tree Walk and set his dog on Horwood’s children.  Beal claimed dog never left premises, case dismissed. [wlo 5 Aug]

5.—The Chelsea News had received the report of the Chelsea, Brompton and Belgrave dispensary, established 1812, at 14 Sloane Square.  Patients increased to 3289 with 249 midwifery cases, 1261 casual aid.  St. Luke’s and other churches had raised funds, and Charles Lloyd Norman had presented them with 12 bottles of port wine. [cn 5 Aug]

5.—“Railway” at Rist’s Library, Kensington was “about to commence an English Railway” and had a vacancy for a pupil.  An intelligent youth would need to provide a modern premium and would be engineer and surveyor. [wlo 5 Aug]

7.—On a fine evening with a slightly breeze from the north-west, Mr. Delamarne made a second ascent from Cremorne Gardens in his sailing balloon which drifted off in the direction of Sydenham. [cn 12 Aug]

8.—A splendid specimen of Lilium Auratum of Japan, having twenty nine blooms, was exhibited by the Royal Horticultural Society, at their fortnightly exhibition at South Kensington. [wlo 12 Aug]

9.—The Hawaiian Queen paid a visit to the Duke of York’s School where she was greeted by the school band, under John Wilson, bandmaster, playing God save the Queen.  Around 500 boys paraded for the Queen who departed delighted with what she saw. [cn 12 Aug]

10.—The annual Thames National Regatta would take place and the Metropolitan and Great Western Railway were advertising their frequent trains to Hammersmith Station, and then a five minute walk to Hammersmith Bridge for the best view. [wlo 5 Aug]

10.—Messrs. Wigmore and Whittick, having completed construction of the North End Sewer, West Brompton, celebrated with an excellent dinner at the Bell and Anchor, Hammersmith Gate.  Around 30 were present to hear the toasts and speeches. [wlo 12 Aug]

12.—James H. Green, auctioneer, valuer and estate agent, 72 King Street, West, Hammersmith, offered his services for railway compensation cases, especially given “the several railways passing through Hammersmith and Fulham”. [wlo 12 Aug]

12.—Hipolite Drux Wagner was charged at Westminster Police Court with breaking into Brompton Roman Catholic Oratory and stealing £8 from boxes marked “souls in purgatory.”  P.C. James Thomas was in Cottage Place, Brompton Row at 4 a.m. when he heard glass breaking, and after a struggle apprehended Wagner. [cn 19 Aug, cn 26 Aug]

12.—All parishioners were asked to help prevent the desecration of Kensington Churchyard by a proposed improvement, which would be similar to the unhappy disgrace of 1851.  Names to Admiral Deacon, 12 Leonard Place. [wlo 12 Aug]

17.—After the funeral of Mr. Parkes in a vault in Kensal Green Cemetery, it was thought that a man smoking a pipe accidently started a fire which spread throughout the vaults but wasn’t detected until the following day.  The bodies of those escaping the flames were placed in new coffins and crowds attended on Saturday/Sunday to see the strange site. [wlo 26 Aug]

19.—A Lancashire Sewing Machines (without Table or Treadle) was to be sold for 50s.  Apply 3 Elizabeth Street, Hans Place, Sloane Street (money wanted). [cn 19, 26 Aug]

21.—In accordance with the agreement of the Cow-keepers and dairymen at their meeting held in the Bolton Abbey, Lonsdale Road, the price of milk would increase to 5d. per quart. [wlo 19 Aug]

22.—The Chelsea Regatta for landsmen, watermen and apprentices was rowed for money prizes, a coat and badge &c.  H. Blake won the apprentices’ race followed by C. Cole, J. Levitt, C. Healing, W. Goodall and W. Trowers.  All were fine races. [wlo 26 Aug]

23.—Kensington Vestry were read a letter from the Metropolitan Board of Works agreeing to that Kensington High Street would be widened and that plans were made and a forthcoming bill was in progress.  The Vestry congratulated themselves on pressing for this. [wlo 26 Aug]

23.—Fanny Barry, who had been “acquainted” with a private (soldier) in the Blues for three years, and sold all of her things to find him money, was knocked down by him on Wednesday afternoon.  That evening she took laudanum in front of the solider at the Sun Music Hall, Knightsbridge.  She was taken to St. George’s Hospital, was revived, and stood trial for suicide on Friday. [wlo 26 Aug]

24.—Edwin Avery, Clerk to the Kensington Guardians, advertised for a master tailor and a master shoemaker, to be single men and live in the workhouse, at a salary of twenty guineas per annum with rations, lodging, washing etc.  The work would also involve teaching the boys their trade. [wlo 16 Sept.]

26.—Spacious vaults were to let in Brompton.  Apply to Mr. Jannaway, General House Furnisher, 154 Brompton Road.  A Lancaster Sewing Machine (with or without treadle) was for sale for 50s. (money wanted), apply 3 Elizabeth Street, Hans Place, Sloane Street.[cn 26 Aug]

29.—Michael Ryan, Sergeant-Major of the South Middlesex Volunteer Corps, was charged with wounding Henry Brown in the head with a thick, heavy stick, at Crown, North End.  Once Brown removed his many bandages, no bruise was evident, and Mrs. Fox, the landlady said Brown and forced the door, broken windows, and Ryan was acting in self-defence.  Case dismissed. [wlo 2 Sept]

30.—Mr. F. A. Kemmer, a photographist, 5 Clifton Place, West Brompton, was awoken in bed when he heard a window broken.  John Elliott, a baker, “a little excited”, had done it with a broom, insisting his wife was in the front parlour, which she was not.  At the trial Elliott’s wife said he “was not right in his mind”.  Mr. Ingham “remanded the madman”. [wlo 2 Sept]

31.—J. Cockerrell, Secretary of the Royal Horticultural Society, South Kensington, wrote to the newspaper to thank the band of T. division of Police for performing the previous Saturday.  Their admirable performance gave great satisfaction to the large crowd assembled.  [wlo 9 Sept.]

September

2.—The “near famine” prices of butchers’ meat was commented on, which an unnamed Chelsea butcher explained was down to the meat coming from abroad, with the cattle plague leading to great scarcity. [cn 2 Sep]

4.—The Cowkeepers, Diarymen, &c. would meet at the National School rooms, Hammersmith to receive a report on the Cattle Disease.  The paper’s editorial was also on the cattle plague, pointing out the immense damage it could cause by stopping the milk supply and pushing up the price of meat. [wlo 2 Sept]

5.—Fulham Workhouse presented “a scene of mirth and happiness” as an annual treat for the school children was held.  An omnibus with a pair of horses with other transport, accompanied by Capt. Conwun’s Company of Volunteers’ brass band, took the children to Hampton Court where there was beef, bread, ale and lemonade, football, plum pudding, races etc. [wlo 9 Sept]

6.—The Chelsea Guardians would appoint a night porter for the workhouse.  Applicants should be active men between 30–45 and apply in their handwriting.  A single man would be preferred.  Salary £20 per annum with board, lodging and washing. [cn 26 Aug]

7.—Mr. Bird held an inquest at the Arundel, Kensington, on the death of James Rice, aged 51, a hair-dresser.  His son, also James Rice a hair-dresser, of 11 Allen Street, Lambeth, said his father had recently been freely indulging in drink.  Sir Edward Blennerhasset found the deceased dying and a post modern found death was caused by poisoning by essential oil of almonds. [wlo 9 Sept]

9.—Royal Cremorne Gardens reminded readers that in the “continue delightful weather” their Special Summer Fete, refreshment rooms and dancing platforms were ready to welcome customers.  The new Trotting Ground in the Ashburnham was nearly completed and the Giants of the Forest and the Sea were attracting much attention. [wlo 9 Sept]

12.—At Chelsea Vestry the Medical Officer reported that despite precautions a cow had died of the cattle plague in the parish.  The Guildhall had resolved to erect a sanitarium for diseased cattle, cost £1,000, to try and stem the plague.  Mr. Rhind thought inspections, not cattle hospitals, were required. [cn 16 Sep]

13.—Matthew Welsh, aged 3, of Jenning’s Buildings, Kensington, had his clothes catch fire from a candle his mother had placed on the table, and was rapidly envoloped in flames.  He was taken to St. George’s Hospital but died on admission. [wlo 16 Sep]

14.—A special Excursion Train would call at Chelsea at 7.10 and Kensington at 7.20 a.m. on its way to Weston-Super-Mare, Taunton, Paignton etc., returning on the 23rd September.  For details contact J. Grierson, General Manager, Paddington station. [wlo 2 Sept]

15.—The Chelsea Literary and Scientific Institution commenced its public series of “amusement and instruction” at the Vestry Hall where Mr. D. Kennedy delineated the Scotch character with readings and songs.  Mr. Land’s “Recollections of Burns” were much appreciated. [cn 23 Sep]

15.—At the Kensington Vestry Hall F. Godrich, medical officer, read a report on his inspection of Messrs. Tucker’s candle factory [which was opposite the hall and caused a great smell.]  No melting of fat was being done, nor was there any fat on the premises.  Fat normally arrived by cart at 8 p.m. and melting started at 10 p.m.  All was found to be in order and the Vestry could not close him down. [wlo 23 Sep]

16.—The editorial congratulated residents of Kensington and Hammersmith on the completion of the six month’s work to “perfect” the Hammersmith and City Railway line, which was built to carry 12 trains a day, whereas 90 trains, in both directions, were demanded. [wlo 16 Sep]

16.—In noting that there was a great deal of the potato disease, the newspaper quoted a salesman at Farringdon market saying he had to throw away 30 bushels a week, which weren’t even fit for the pigs. [wlo 16 Sep]

17.—At 11 a.m. at Kensington Presbyterian Church, Foxley Road, the Rev. Gavin Carlyle, M.A., editor of The Collected Writings of Edward Irving, would begin a series of lectures on the life of Jesus. [wlo 16 Sep]

18.—At Hammersmith Police Court John Lund was charged with stealing stone belonging to his former employers, Messrs. Corbett and M’Clymott, builders, of West Brompton.  Lund had directed John Brown, a carman in service of Corbett and M’Clymott to take the stone to near Lund’s house.  Remanded. [wlo 23 Sep]

20.— Henry Patlept, Peter Street, Westminster, was walking to his work at Cremorne, Chelsea, when approaching Rother’s lime and brick works by the Thames he saw the drowned corpse of George Allsopp, 22, of 7 Little Durham Street, Chelsea.  At the inquest George’s father John, a general dealer, said George had lately been intemperant.  Verdict: death by drowning. [wlo 23 Sep]

22.—At 2 a.m., Henry Flood, 23, a carpenter employed by Messrs. Pickering, contractors who were building an arch for the new London Bridge Railway, was getting down after finishing the arch, when it collapsed and he was killed.  Accidental death but stronger plates must be used in future. [cn 30 Sep]

23.—George William Miller, 1 Heath Place, Shepherd’s Bush was adverting his 4s. a week service of taking horses to grass at Wormholt Farm, Shepherd’s Bush which was only 3¼ miles from Marble Arch. [wlo 23 Sep]

25.—The Kensington Friends of Labour Mutual Loan Society would hold its regular Monday meeting from 8 to 10 p.m. at the George Tavern, Church Street, Kensington.  Information from Mr. Blunden, established 1860 etc. [wlo 23 Sep]

26.—Stephen Harris, 8 Alexander Villas, Uxbridge Road, was summoned for travelling on the Hammersmith and City railway on the 10^th, and failing to provide a ticket, claiming he’d paid and left it in the carriage.  E. Thomas, barrister, gave evidence that Harris had purchased a ticket.  Mr. Ingham, magistrate, said anyone who could not produce a ticket should pay again.  Fined 5s. and 2s. [wlo 30 Sep]

27.—During the trial of Thomas Pabey, aged 45, at Westminster Police Court, for being drunk in Brompton Road the previous night, Sergeant Morgan informed the court that large crowds were nightly assembling outside 56 and 58 Brompton Road, believing them haunted.  This blocked the road traffic. [wlo 30 Sep]

28.—At the first meeting of Metropolitan District Railway the directors announced they had raised capital, purchased land, appointed Sir Morton Peto and Co. contractors at £1,710,000, and started works on Kensington to Cannon Street.  [This is now known as the south-western part of the Circle line and would result in Gloucester Road being dug up to provide a station.] [wlo 30 Sep]

30.—It was announced that an iron girder railway bridge would “forthwith” be built across Fulham Broadway, in an oblique direction to the east side of Mr. Hunt’s premises.  The houses of Mr. Churchman, Mr. Mussared and Mrs. Gayleard would be required. [wlo 30 Sep]

30.—Francis Ede, 23 Drayton Grove, Brompton, after leaving Mr. Manson’s tavern at 12 Oakley Street, Chelsea, missed his gold watch and money.  At the subsequent trial an Abel Beer (22 November), who had deserted his wife and children in Lyme Regis, was found to have left a gold watch inscribed “Catherine Ede” at his lodgings.  Francis explained Catherine Ede was his aunt who gave him the watch 29 years ago.  Unable to admit paperwork, Mr. Arnold discharged Beer. [wlo 25 Nov]

October

1.—In Anglican churches across the country, the Freedom of Worship Association called clergymen to reflect on “the absence of the bulk of the English people from public worship, and to ask their people to consider how far ‘the alienation of the masses’ from religious associations is caused by the arrangements by which the ‘Poor Man’s Church’ is practically converted into an institution almost exclusively for the wealthier and more education minority of the nation.” [wlo 30 Sep]

2.—Two young men, Andrew Smith and John Carney, inmates of St. Margaret’s Workhouse, who had absconded with their inmate clothing on 25th August, appeared in Hammersmith Police Court, having returned as causal paupers (with the cloths minus hat and jacket).  They said they had been hopping.  14 days each in prison. [wlo 7 Oct]

3?—The Rev. Charles Hobbs, late curate of St. Luke’s Chelsea, and late Chaplain to the Bethlehem Hospital, died at his residence, 1 Foulis Terrace, Brompton, after a few days illness, aged 45.  He would be sorely missed by the parish. [cn 14 Oct]

4.—Fulham Board of Works heard that the police had approved a new cab stand for 4 cabs in Walham Green [which was subsequently opposed by the residents and delayed by sewer works.]  Mr. Bean then pointed out that the new railway bridge across the Broadway would be “not so advantageously [carried out] as proposed.”  A committee formed to keep an eye on the construction. [wlo 7 Oct, 21 Oct]

4.—George Bird, 11 years old, who lived with his parents in Calthorpe Place, Queen’s Road was run over by a passing vehicle at Victoria Station, Pimlico, and killed.  His remains were buried in Brompton Cemetery on the 11th, and were followed to the grave by the children of the 1st class of St. Jude’s School, Turk’s Row. [cn 14 Oct]

6.—A young woman calling herself as Mary Brown appeared at Hammersmith Police Court charged with using a forged letter supposedly from Reuben Green, Chelsea Vestry clerk, to obtain money from charitable persons.  Rueben appeared in court a pronounced his signature a forgery saying he knew nothing of the letter.  John Fryer of the Mendicity Society appeared and said the prisoner had married a convicted begging letter imposter named Johnson, and both had been convicted and imprisoned many times.  Rueben said the Vestry was aware of a vast increae in such begging letters in Chelsea and was thinking of issuing a reward for the capture of imposters.  Remanded. [wlo 14 Oct.]

6.—In the list of bankrupts was John Smith Grimmer, of Carlton Colville, Oulton Suffolk, a journeyman miller.  [The Borrows owned an estate at Oulton and William Grimmer was their tenant.] [wlo 14 Oct; Norfolk Chronicle, 14 Oct]

7.—It was reported that the recent change to the act (20th section of 28 and 29 Victoria, c 96) had been used by the Inland Revenue to impose a half-crown stamp on marriages by license.  [Borrow’s step-daughter was married by license in June.] [wlo 7 Oct]

7.—The editorial hoped that although it had been unseasonable hot and there had been individual cases of Asiatic Cholera, the country might have escaped an epidemic.  The medical man was helpless against it, but the sanitary reforms appeared to keep it at bay. [cn 7 Oct, cn 14 Oct]

7.—[Note newspaper incorrectly printed last week’s heading: 30 Sep.]  Professor John Gamgee, principal of the Albert Veterinary College (Limited), Queen’s Road, Bayswater, advertised that advice is given gratis between 10 and 11 a.m. daily. [wlo 7 Oct]

8.—Archdeacon Sinclair (of St. Mary Abbots Parish Church Kensington) preached a sermon on the Cattle Plague.  One of his hearers wrote to the paper encouraging him to publish it. [wlo 14 Oct]

9.—Royal Cremorne Gardens’ late fete of the season would be a benefit for Mr. Adams.  Amusements included a vocal and instrumental concert, comic ballet, educated dogs, performing monkeys and sea bear, illuminations, fireworks and Buono Cose the Fire King in his newly erected Fire-proof House.  Admission 1s. [wlo 7 Oct.]

10.—Persons intending to apply for Slaughter House licenses should have applied at least two weeks ago, on the proper forms, as a Special Sessions would meet in Chelsea Vestry Hall on this date to consider them. [cn 26 Aug]

10.—The underground pneumatic railway between Holborn and the Euston Square Station was opened with two trucks running the distance of over two miles in five minutes.  [I.e. the Post Office underground railway.] [wlo 14 Oct]

12.—Mr. Bird the coroner held an inquest at the Prince of Wales, Chelsea, on the death of William Richardson, ostler, aged 43.  William called on Sophia Richardson, his sister-law, of 22 Exeter Street, Chelsea last Tuesday and asked to lie down.  He had a bottle of medicine from St. George’s Hospital.  Twenty minutes late he expired.  Verdict: decease of the heart. [wlo 14 Oct]

14.—W. B. T.’s letter appeared in the newspaper with a proposal to deal with the “unpleasant smell of sulphureous acid which pervades the whole of the underground portion of the Metropolitan railway”.  He suggested an engine could discharge it’s steam in the tunnel on the way from Farringdon to Bishop’s Road. [wlo 14 Oct]

15.—James Hicken, a smith from Bermondsey who had been to dine with a friend in Chelsea at the Pier Hotel, in making his way home, rambled (intoxicated) into the fence on Cheyne Walk, which being in a disgraceful condition gave way, and Hicken fell into the river and was drowned. [cn 21 Oct]

17.—Alfred Davis, 28, of 85 Cirencester Street, Paddington, a porter at Paddington station, appeared before Marylebone Police Court charged with stealing 4 gold watches, 2 silver watches, 2 gold broaches, a gold seal, 2 gold lockets, a gold watch guard and other jewellery valued at £50.  All stolen articles were found in Davis’ lodgings.  Committed for trial. [wlo 21 Oct]

17.—The Foundation Stone of the West Brompton Congregational Church, Edith Grove, Fulham Road, would be laid at 4 p.m. when an address would be delivered by Rev. Robert Vaughan, D.D., followed by a social tea-meeting at Onslow Hall, Nevill’s Street, Queen’s Elms. [cn 14 Oct]

18.—“Septimus Muff” wrote to the paper denying rumours that two drivers of the London General Omnibus Company had been summoned for furious driving and that some passengers from Fulham Broadway had arrived at Cheapside is less than two hours.  Since the Company’s “opposition” had been put down five years ago their omnibuses never arrived in under two hours. [wlo 21 Oct]

19.—Rev. R. Brindley, minister of Chelsea Congregational Church, Markham Square, died in the morning, after a long illness which had caused much anxiety to the congregation.  He was the second minister after the church had been built to die at an “early age, probably under 40.” [cn 21 Oct]

21.—St. Stephen’s Schools, Shepherd’s Bush, started to advertise their forthcoming Christmas Bazaar (to be held 28–29th December).  Contributions of work and other articles gratefully received.  Information from the Churchwardens and W. Berrall, treasurer of schools. [wlo 21 Oct]

22.—After a long and painful illness, Henry Hackman, who for many years had been Vestry Clerk of Fulham, died in the presence of his family, aged 47.  The internment in the family vault at the entrance to Fulham Old Churchyard took place on Friday and many of the shops were partly closed and a flag on the bridge was at half-mast. [wlo 28 Oct]

25.—John Bugby, secretary of the Brentford Gas Company announced a reduction in the price of their gas, supplied by meter, by 3d. per 1,000 cubit feet, effective from last June.  From 31st December there would be a further 3d. per 1,000 cubit feet reduction. [wlo 28 Oct]

26.—William Ryder, a youth, appeared at Hammersmith Police Court charged with letting off fireworks in the public streets at Sand’s End and throwing them at shops.  Fined 5s. but if repeated Mr. Dayman would “impose heavy penatlties.” [wlo 28 Oct]

27.—Barton Robert Hall, for many years Vestry Clerk and Clerk to the Burial Board of Kensington, died at his home, 5 Upper Phillimore Place.  In 1859 he succeeded his father, who had held similar appointments for sixty years.  The funeral procession on Friday included Parish Officials, two parish beadles with maces covered by crepe, hearse with 4 horses etc.  [wlo 4 Nov]

28.—The West London Observer proudly announced that they had completed their tenth year in business and despite problems attributed their success to the same foundation as the Times and by concentrating on local news, such as Hammersmith Police Court, the Coroner’s reports etc. [wlo 28 Oct]

30.—Edward Hardy was re-examined at Hammersmith Police Court on the charge of stealing 12 quarterns of bread and 3 quarterns of flour a barrow belonging to Mr. W. Sinfield of West Brompton, while it was left at the corner of Gloucester Road.  Hardy claimed he was helping someone who “looked like a baker”.  Committed for trial. [wlo 4 Nov]

31.—At 2.05 p.m. Chelsea residents near the Royal Hospital felt an earthquake followed by tremendous explosion and an immense sheet of flame over the London Gas Works, Nine Elms.  Gasometer No. 1, holding 1,000,000 cubit feet of gas had exploded and was now a smoking ruin; Gasometer No. 2 had caught light; brick buildings on the works had been flatted, 10 dead, and many in hospital. [cn 4 Nov]

November

1.—The Royal School of Naval Architecture & Marine Engineering, South Kensington, would commence it’s section session.  Students should attend the Principal’s Office before noon, or previously, to get their admission papers signed.  For information write to the Secretary of the Science and Art Department, South Kensington. [wlo 14 Oct]

1.—In accordance with the Act of Parliament all turnpikes on the Surrey side of the Thames (i.e. south), 61 in number, were abolished and from this day were free from all tolls. [wlo 4 Nov]

4.—H. Lawrence, dispensing chemist, 49 High Street, Kensington, was advertising his Sedative Cough Lozenges, which were approved and recommended by several medical practitioners and were especially suitable for elderly and consumptive person. [wlo 4 Nov]

4.—Henry C. Fowlers, purveyor of meet, advertised that he’s moved from Hammersmith to 52 High Street, Kensington (opposite the Vestry Hall and previously John Walker’s shop), families waited upon.  [I.e. he was by Mr. Tucker’s candle factory, oh dear.] [wlo 4 Nov]

5.—The Iron Church on the Moore Park Estate, St. John’s, Fulham would open with Rev. W. E. Batty, Incumbent of St. John’s, preaching at the 11 a.m. service, Rev. W. H. Denny, Minister of the Iron Church, at the 6.30 p.m. service.  Collections at both services. [wlo 4 Nov, 18 Nov]

6.—The Committee of Management of the West London Hospital held their meeting: since 1st April 1865 £796 had been received in donations, £724 spent, there had been 13,641 new cases, 279 medical and 349 surgical cases dealt with, and 1,777 out patients.  [wlo 11 Nov]

6.— It had been a “disagreeable” autumn and the bitterly cold wind continued, as did the rain.  The patients of the Brompton Consumption Hospital were, however, as an experiment, to be sent to Madeira, with a full article in the paper describing the hospital and experiments. [wlo 11 Nov]

7.—The Young Men’s Association, Spring Vale Lecture Hall, Blythe Lane, Hammersmith, would see the commencement of their free Winter lectures, starting with the Rev. J. H. Blake on Arabs of the City, or, London Scenes and London Life, illustrated by dissolving views. [wlo 4 Nov]

7.—At the Kensington Petty Sessions the following licenses were transferred: Chelsea Pensioner, Queen’s Road, Chelsea to Selina Hawes, The Montpelier, Montpelier Street, Brompton to Sarah Fletcher, late manager of a hotel, the Civet Cat, High Street, Kensington, to Andrew Reid Wale, late of Milton Street, Marylebone, a victualler. [wlo 11 Nov]

8.—Mr. Gibbons, master of Chelsea Workhouse, reported that there were 537 inmates in the workhouse, (up from 488 last year); 37 admitted, 1 born, 24 discharged, 2 died (previous week).  Vagrants relived were: 93 men, 100 women, 30 children.  There were 18 idiots in the workhouse and 128 lunatics in the asylums.  [cn 18 Nov]

9.—John Coppin, [1] a boy, appeared at Hammersmith Police Court charged with unlawfully walking across the West London Railway.  Inspector Morris pointed to many notices forbidding crossing.  Fined 10s. and 2s. costs, told it was very dangereous and must be stopped, and that the maximum penalty was £10. [wlo 11 Nov]

10.—The Rev. W. G. Cookesley would commence a series of weekly readings from Shakespeare, starting with Henry IV part 1.  All readings start at 7 p.m. in the National School Room, St. Peter’s, Hammersmith with proceeds going towards building a house for the master of the National School.  Reserved seats 1s., unreserved 6d. [wlo 4 Nov]

11.—A small black and tan Skye Terrier puppy had been lost on 7th October, and whoever found it and brought it to 13 Earl’s Court Terrace, Pembroke Square, Kensington, would receive a £1 reward. [wlo 11 Nov]

11.—A special jury under the presidency of Mr. Humphreys the coroner, assessed the compnesation for some property in Brompton required for the construction of the Metropolitan Extension Railway (i.e. via Gloucester Road).  A Mr. Blackborne was awarded £5,450 and a Mr. Dear £1,658. [wlo 11 Nov]

15.—Samuel Cornell, clerk to the guardian of Kensington Workhouse, advertised for a workhouse porter, £25 per annum with lodging, washing and rations and livery suit.  No candidate under 25 or over 35 or married would be appointed. [wlo 11 Nov]

16.—Joseph Smith, 2 Lime Tree Place, Acton Green, advertised that after this date he would no longer be liable for the debts of his wife, Caroline Smith.  He had allowed her “a sufficient sum for her separate maintenance.” [wlo 18 Nov]

17.—George Addison, General Manager of the London and South-Western Bank, Limited, announced that they had opened a new branch at 24 King’s Road, Chelsea.  The opening was the subject of the editorial on the 2nd December. [cn 2 Dec]

18.—A bronze statue of Sir J. M‘Grigor (1771–1858) was unveiled in the garden of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, with ladies, gentlemen, medical officers of the British Army and general public watching.  The cost was born by a subscription. [cn 25 Nov]

18.—The Chelsea News had a feature describing the planned Albert Bridge, which could connect Chelsea, Brompton etc. with Battersea etc.  Unlike previous bridges it would be a suspension bridge, the centre being 500 feet in the clear and the width of the roadway 27 ft. 6 inches on each side of which the footpath would be 7 ft. wide. [cn 18 Nov]

20.—Two “foreign boys selling ornaments” in Cadogan Street, Chelsea, were pelted with stones by the boys of the school.  A young man employed at the baker’s interfered to stop them, but was also stoned and suffered cuts to the face and head.  Police were called and were searching for the offenders. [cn 25 Nov]

21.—Chelsea Vestry discussed (and disapproved of) Sunday trading.  Local examples mentioned were a green-grocers open all Sunday and a farmer making hay (case had been dismissed).  Vestry would write to police. [cn 25 Nov]

22.— Walham Green inhabitants thought the previous night’s meteor had frightened their church clock.  At 6 a.m. it struck 37 times, at 7 a.m. it had calmed down struck 8, at 9 a.m. it struck 10, and at 10 a.m. it struck nearly 50.  “Horologi” asked if there was a clock hospital in the neighbourhood. [wlo 28 Nov]

22.—Mr. Bickley, solicitor acting for Emily Lewis of Cromwell Lodge, West Brompton, was prepared to accept the Metropolitan Railway’s previous £200 compensation offer, which he’d before rejected.  Mr. Burchell for the company refused to renew the rejected offer.  After trial Mr. Ingham award £196. [wlo 28 Nov]

23.—At Hammersmith station a James Price arrived on the 6:30 train and handed to ticket collector Sidney Scott a ticket which was valid only from Farringdon Street to Bishop’s Road Station.  The threepence fair was demanded and refused, and later Price gave a false address.  Fined 10s. and 2s. 3d. costs, or 14 days imprisonment. [wlo 9 Dec]

23.—Following the death of Mr. Hall the Kensington Vestry held a meeting to appoint his successor.  Reuben Green was unanimously elected at a salary of £200 a year.  In thanking the committee Reuben said that since the amalgamation of the Vestry Clerk and Clerk of the Vestry offices six years ago, he’d been performing the job and “was not a novice to the duties he had to perform.” [wlo 25 Nov]

24.—Jane Ellis, 13, had left her mother’s home in 33 Cambridge Terrace, Pimlico, to look for a position and not returned.  Six sovereigns had gone missing and Jane was found lodging in the Jennings Building, “a notorious localility in the High Street of Kensington,”  with new hat, feathers, cloak etc., but not with the money.  Imprisoned for two weeks, then sent for five years to Hampstead reformatory, mother to pay 1s. a week for maintenance.  Mother could not pay etc. [wlo 2 Dec]

25.—Mr. and Mrs. Wood, 16 Moreton Place, Pimlico, having left their three children at home whilst they went to market, returned to find the house alight.  Mr. Wood grabbed the youngest child, 3, failed to get the others out.  The bodies of John Wood, 7, and Albert Wood, 5, were recovered when the fire was put out. [cn 28 Nov]

25.—J. H. Cocks, West London Funeral Establishment, 71 Manor Street, Chelsea, was offering adults’ carriage funeral, with polished coffin, mourners and fitters complete at £2 2s.; child (ditto) 18s. 6d.  Monuments, tablets and tomb stones erected. [cn 25 Nov]

27.—At the Court of the Queen’s Bench, Mrs. Brand [formerly Mrs. Piper?], of Cumberland House, Shepherd’s Bush, next to the railway bridge on the Uxbridge road, claimed compensation against the Hammersmith and City Railway: £863 for obstruction of light, £33 for damage to garden, £272 for vibrations.  Legal judgement decided she could not claim for vibrations. [wlo 2 Dec]

28.—At Chelsea Vestry a handsome Silver Tea Service was presented by the Vestry to William Hall in recognition of his 40 years valuable service to the parish.  The money had come from parishioners, organised by Henry Larner, 280 King’s Road. [cn 2 Dec]

29.—At 1 p.m. Mr. Clark, Brompton Auction Rooms, would sell a quantity of household furniture, a bay mare and poney, two spring vans and a strong cart. [cn 25 Nov]

29.—At Clerkenwell Sessions Benjamin Ware and his wife were indited for keeping a house of ill-fame, 2 White Lion Street, Chelsea, under the guise of a coffee shop.  Local tradesmen and police gave evidence against them.  Benjamin 9 months hard labour, his wife 4 months.  Defence witness taken into custody for perjury. [cn 2 Dec]

30.—Kensington Guardians of the Poor would meet at the Workhouse to appoint a workhouse porter, salary £25 per annum with lodging, washing, rations and uniform.  Candidates must be single, be 25–35, should write their own application, provide testimonials, and attend the meeting. [cn 18 nov]

December

1.—At midnight Mr. Barlett, the cricketer, ran the length of Westminster Bridge for a bet: that he could do it between the Victoria clock chiming the four quarter hours and striking the midnight hour.  Betting was six and seven to four on.  He passed the winning post on the tenth stroke of the hour. [cn 9 Dec]

2.—Henry Nodes, coffin maker and proprietor of funeral carriages, 40 Robert Street, King’s Road, Chelsea, was offering Adults and Carriage Funerals commencing at £2, children’s (ditto) 17s. 6d.

2.—A letter from J. Dickson Claxton, Incumbent of St. Philip’s, Kensington, appeared.  The churches were asked to pray for preservation against Cholera, but Earl’s Court, “isolated somewhat from the rest of the Parish by extensive market gardens” and in the wealthy part of the parish was devoid of sewerage.   Cesspools were continually overflowing, landlords and owners do nothing and the Medical Officers don’t interfere. [wlo 2 Dec]

3.—In the afternoon Mrs. Lucy An Norton, 52, the wife of Rev. E. L. Norton of Besborough Street, Pimlico, fell down in the street in a epileptic fit and died two hours later. [cn 9 Dec]

4.—Capt. Fowke, R.E., the architect of the South Kensington Museum, Museum of Scotland, National Gallery of Dublin and the 1862 International Exhibition in Kensington, died at his official resident in South Kensington of a burst blood vessel.  He’d been in declining health for some months. [cn 9 Dec]

5.—The Royal Horticultural Society fruit florist committees met in the South Kensington Gardens.  Messrs. Lucumbe, Pince & Co. exhibited a new fern, polystichum augulare parvissimum, which excited considerable attention; Lady Dorothy showed rare monstera deliciosa and there were submissions from every part of the globe. [cn 9 Dec]

7.—At the Fulham Board of Guardians Mr. Smith proposed a two month trial of fitting and using Clarke’s Patent Gas Regulators which “were productive of great economy.”  Seconded by Dr. Ree, it was carried nem. con. [wlo 9 Dec]

9.—The local newspapers carried amusing stories of doubtful origin.  This week an schoolmaster send a pupil to fetch another and threatened to beat the child if he spoken ungrammatically.  The child therefore addressed his fellow pupil: “There is a common substantive, of the masculine gender, singular number, nominative case, and in an angry mood, that sits perched upon the eminence at the other end of the room, wishes to articulate a few sentences to you in the present case.” [wlo 9 Dec]

9.—F. Clark, optician, 13 Park Side, Knightsbridge, advertised Christmas Amusements with Roars of Laugher with his Magic Lanterns (available for loan).  Schools and parties attended. [cn 9 Dec]

10.—The annual sermons at Northend Church Missionary Association would see Rev. T. Y. Darling, missionary from Central India preaching in the morning, and Rev. W. Norval, M.A. in the evenings.  The annual meeting would be held in the School rooms, William Street, on the 13th at 7 p.m. [wlo 9 Dec]

12.—Thieves, letting themselves in by a skeleton key, extensively robbed Mrs. Barrington, 16 Walton Villas, Brompton.  Suspicion later fell on a Henry Pettis, a single man logding at 33 Cumberland Street.  Confronted by his landlady Mrs. Perry he confessed and committed suicide with a razor.  His confession implicated Harry Swyer, Palace Road, Lambeth who was later apprehended. [cn 23 Dec]

13.—Kensington Vestry received a complaint about the smell of Mr. Tucker and Smith’s candle factory.  Past facts were recalled by the Vestry, Mr. Banting thought the Nuisance Removal Act might apply, Mr. Freeman advocated taking the matter to court, Dr. O’Bryen recommended charcoal to mask the smell, Mr. Cocks wanted to know who would pay if the case went to law.  Passed to Law and Parliamentary Committee. [cn 16 Dec]

14.—An Amateur Dramatic Performance would take place in Chiswick Hall to raise funds for the annual Christmas Dinner for the aged poor.  Tom Taylor’s domestic drama Helping Hands would be followed by the farce A Duchess or Nothing.  Stalls 3s. 6d., back seats 1s. etc.  Tickets from members of the company. [wlo 9 Dec]

15.—In the evening, at Mr. William Jones’, firework dealer, Leader Street, Chelsea, the window being decorated for Christmas, some of the decorations caught fire, and the fire soon reached the fire-work area.  The resulting explosion decimated the window and fragments were found in Regent Street.  Fire engines arrived but the shop was totally destroyed.  Mr. Jones was not insured. [cn 23 Dec]

16.—The newspaper’s editorial spoke passionately against the “railway system” saying “we promoted, petted, and encouraged Railways and their Extensions until we are literally over-ridden and trampled upon by their iron hoofs.  They have become our Masters, aye, and most tyrannical Masters too!”  No man’s property was safe, compensation was inadequate and no less than nine new railway lines were planned in Fulham and Hammersmith. [wlo 16 Dec]

18.—Professor Berlyn would lecture on The Future of the Jewish People at 8 p.m. at the Vestry Hall, Chelsea.  Friends of Israel affectionately invited to attend.  Tickets 6d. and 1s. available from the libraries. [cn 16 Dec]

18.—Joseph Alexander Leslie, 23, carpenter, and his wife Elizabeth were turned out of their lodging in 10 St. George’s terrace [Paddington?] as they could not pay the rent, Joseph having been out of work for four months.  She went to stay at her aunt’s.  Joseph’s body was found in Regent’s canal, Paddington, on 22nd December, his throat cut.  His suicide note said “I die like a dog”.  [cn 6 January 1866]

19.—In the afternoon Capt. F. C. Symonds, Bengal Artillery, aged 56, who had become insane at Mooltan due to sun-stroke and had returned to England in 1852, walked to the tree in the centre of Brook Green, Hammersmith, put a double-barrelled pistol to his mouth, and blew his brains out. [cn 30 Dec]

20.—At Westminster Police Court a very complex robbery and suicide in Brompton were tried.  Mrs. Barrington, 16 Watson Villas, Brompton was robbed and suspicion fell on a lodger at 83 Cumberland Street called Pettis.  Pettis was confronted, confessed and implicated others, then cut his throat with a razor.  This led to police to trace one Harry Swyer of Lambeth, who resisted arrest and was found with the skelton key used in the robbery.  John James Lloyd, 28, assistant librarian at Muddie’s library, was associated with Swyer and stood trial, but a character reference from Muddie’s said he was highly respectable married man, etc. and he was bailed. [wlo 23 Dec]

21.—At St. Barnabas and St. Philip’s, Earl Street, Kensington, Mr. Brinley Richards would give a pianoforte recital and St. Philip’s Choir and Choral Association would sing a new Christmas Part Song written by him, What Bells are those?  There would be a selection of vocal music accompanied by Mrs. J. S. Higgins.  Tickets 2s. 6d., doors open 7.30 p.m. for 8 p.m. and proceeds to parish charities. [wlo 16 Dec]

22.—Former pupils of Oxford House School held their annual re-union at Chelsea Vestry Hall.  A full music programme was performed, readings given, comic monologues etc.  The whole was a credit to the young gentlemen, their teachers and Mr. Lake, the Principal of the School. [cn 23 Dec]

23.—Among those advertising were W. Jannaway, General House Furnisher, 154 Brompton Road who was noted for superior second-hand furniture; J. Miller, 15 & 16 Shaftesbury Terrace, Pimlico (carpets) who were having a closing down sale as they were to be demolished by the Metropolitan Railway; Waud & Co., Queen’s Elm, Brompton who were offering Sacred Song for Christmas (by the Rev. Dr. Faber). [cn 23 Dec]

24.—The alter piece in Chiswick Church, painted and presented by Reuben Sayers, was uncovered and shown to the congregation, together with the improvements made in the Chancel.  The picture was discussed in detail in the editorial. [wlo 30 Dec]

25.—Inmates of Chelsea Workhouse forwarded by the Master, John Gibbons, their grateful thanks Guardians.  Mr. Gibbons reported: “I am also gratified to add that their conduct throughout the day was most satisfactory—not a single instance of impropriety of conduct on the part of anyone having occurred.” [cn 30 Dec]

25—Inmates of Kensington Workhouse had ¾lb. roast beef, potatoes, bread, 1lb. pudding; 1 pint of Barclay’s porter; children had fruit etc.  The Beef and mutton cost 8s. 6d. per stone, bread 10s. 6d. per cwt.; a rise of around 10% from last year.  Mr. Blackwell (workhouse master) and Mr. Banting (Vestryman) bought treats, toys, fruit etc. out of their own money. [cn 30 Dec]

26.—J. Hunt and Company, Hammersmith House, Broadway, advised that they would be closed for their Christmas Hallowday [sic].  [wlo 23 Dec]

27.—A public meeting would be held at the Swan Tavern, Broadway, Hammersmith at 7 p.m. to discuss the new rate assessment.  Ratepayers and inhabitants earnestly requested to attend to decide on further proceedings. [wlo 23 Dec]

28.—S. Maurice Henri Berlyn, 250 King’s Road, Chelsea, wrote to the Chelsea News complaining about the high fees the Vestry charged for use of the Vestry Hall.  Whilst the ratepayers had paid for it, and the Literary Institution enjoyed a special rate (250 days for per year at £100 total); it was little used as few could afford to hire it for a few hours. [cn 30 Dec]

29.—Matthew Feilde would hold a meeting at 10 a.m. at Kensington Vestry Hall urging them to vote for Mr. Ewart’s Act.  Matthew’s “spirited address to the ratepayers of Kensington” was now available, published by H. Hellewell, price 1d. [wlo 23 Dec]

30.—Another advert appeared on behalf of Chelsea Vestry offering 6d. per load of dry, hard material deposited at Lots Ground, Poole’s Lane, King’s Road.  A few weeks earlier the Chelsea Surveyor had complained he hadn’t material to repair the roads.  This was in addition to the 700 ton contract. [cn 30 Dec]

31.—Shortly after midnight a violent storm of wind and rain hit London, with a great gust of wind around 2 a.m. which brought down chimney pots, unroofed houses and brought down trees.  Camberwell was especially affected but the Crystal Palace relived “not the slightest injury.” [cn 6 January 1866]

Footnotes

[1]  The 1871 census has a John Coppin, unmarried, aged 20 and born in Hammersmith, lodger, living at 55 Clifford Street, Hammersmith, so if the same person he’d be aged 14 at the time of the trespass.  In the 1861 census he was living with his mother, Betsy Seabrook Coppin housekeeper to John P. Sharp, Warwick House, Kensington.