Sports on the Ice – On Saturday afternoon, Mr W Scott, saddler, gave a pair of skates to be raced for. There were nearly a dozen competitors, but Mr H Holmes won easily. A backwards race was won by Mr Isaac Hodgson, and he and Mr J Greenhow divided for figure skating.
A New Yankee Notion – The “Patent American Brace”, for which Mr T W Gatey has been appointed sole agent for Keswick, is an article of luxury not confined to the wearers of trousers but is also available as a suspender for the undergarments of ladies.
Life at Rosthwaite a Hundred Years Ago (reporting Gilpin) – In this deep retreat lies the village of Rosthwaite, having at all times little intercourse in the country, but during the last half year almost totally excluded from all human commerce. Here the sons and daughters of simplicity enjoy health, peace, and contentment, in the midst of what city luxury would call the extreme of human necessity. Their scanty patches of arable land, and these cultivated with difficulty, and their crops late ripening and often a prey to autumnal rains which are violent in this country, just give them bread to eat. Their herds afford them milk, and their flocks clothes, the shepherd himself being often the manufacturer also. No dye is necessary to tinge their wool, it is naturally a russet-brown, an sheep and shepherd are clothed alike, both in the simple livery of nature.
Inland Revenue Licences – The time has again arrived for the renewal of licences for dogs, guns, male servants, carriages and armorial bearings.
Crosthwaite Sunday School Christmas Treat – The teachers and friends of this school gave the children an excellent entertainment on the last day of the Old Year, in the Parish Room. The number of children on the books is 199, with 14 teachers. Of these 156 assembled with their teachers and partook of excellent tea, buns, and fruit loaf.
St Patrick’s Well, Patterdale – It is said that St Patrick baptised several of the inhabitants of the dale now styled Patterdale at the well to which his name has been attached. The dale was originally designated Patrick or Patrick’s dale, and is entered, under the date of 1581, as Patrickdale in the Bishop’s register, so that the present name is evidently a corruption of the one it previously bore.
Railway Breakdown – On Thursday, while the train due at Keswick at 4.55 pm was between Braithwaite and Keswick the engine broke down, and did not arrive till 30 minutes behind time. The engine was temporarily repaired at Keswick and proceeded on its journey to Penrith.
Choral Society – The rehearsals will be resumed on Thursday evening at St John’s School, when will be put into practice a cantata “Babes in the Wood” – words from the “Ingoldsby Legends” and music by G Fox composer also of “The Jackdaw of Rheims”.
Larceny by Boys – Three boys, named John Sewell, aged 15, Thomas Sanderson, aged 12. and Edward Hall Cleminson, aged 12. all of Brigham, were apprehended on Thursday afternoon on the charge of stealing a padlock from the gate near Faulder’s Brewery, two from Briery, and one from Mr Jonathan Gibson’s yard gate at Keswick, on Sunday evening. The locks have been recovered and traced to the possession of the prisoners, who will be brought before the magistrates today.
An Awkward Predicament
– Yesterday morning, a boy named Atkinson, one of the Brigham scholars,
was playing with some others on the ice on the river opposite to the school,
when the portion he was standing upon broke away from the side. The ice was
carried away by the stream under Calvert Bridge, when Mr W T Nicholson fortunately
came up and rescued the lad from his awkward position.
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Wanted – Every Housekeeper to Try – the superior quality and always ask for Prescott’s White Windsor Curd Soaps, also Cumming’s Unrivalled Skin Blacking.
Money £7,250 Wanted – by the Keswick Urban Sanitary Authority to Borrow on the security of the Rates, Tolls, and all other the revenues and properties of the above Authority £7,250 in sums of £100 to £5,000, at 3 ¾ per cent. (This was to buy the waterworks)
First Instalment of Early Rhubarb – Mr Edwd, Greenhow showed in his window the other day several very fine sticks of rhubarb of his own growth.
Temperance Lectures – Mr Jonathan Smith, an agent of the British Temperance League, has given a round of temperance lectures in this district under the auspices of the Keswick Temperance Reformation Society. The course included two at Keswick, one at Braithwaite, one at Millbeck and one at Threlkeld.
Letter: Crosthwaite High School – I have been anxiously waiting for the election of Governors in place of those whose term of office expired in December last. I remember seeing in your valuable paper that the “Eighteen sworn men” were defunct – not exactly gone over to the great majority, but through neglecting to be churched yearly and shriven for the sins of their old term before donning the new mantle, they are no longer fit to exercise their powers of selecting good men and true to watch over the school. Some action will have to be taken in appealing to the Charity Commissioners to help the lame dog over the stile. …
The Keswick Urban Sanitary Authority – will, at a Special Meeting to be held at the Court Buildings, proceed to elect and Inspector of Nuisances for their district at a salary of £20 per annum for a period of twelve months.
Big Egg! – A Dorking hen the property of Mr Forsyth, draper, laid and egg yesterday 8 inches round, long way, 6 ½ inches, broad way, and weighing 3 ¾ oz. How many for a shilling please, Mr Forsyth?
Larchwood For Sale – in the Manor of Legburthwaite. To be sold by Tender, about 1,100 Larch Trees, to be thinned out of Legburthwaite Mill Plantation. Also about 420 Larch Trees of large growth and good quality, suitable for sleeper wood and other purposes, situated in High park Wood, Dale Head, between 65 and 70 years growth.
Growing Trees For sale – To be sold by Tender, the following Trees, standing in Watson Park Plantation, about one mile from Keswick, namely, 304 Oak, 97 Ash, 42 Elm, 85 Birch and Alder, 15 Larch, 3 Beech, 59 Sundries. The oak is suitable for wagon wood spokes etc. The larch and ash are good quality, and some of the trees are large.
Mr Henry Irwin Jenkinson of Keswick – was elected a member of the Philosophical Society at a meeting of that body, held at University College, London, on the 6th inst.
Keswick Petty Sessions – Sheep Scab – Joseph Little, farmer, Millbeck Hall, was summoned for not reporting the existence of sheep scab on his farm. Defendant, who pleaded guilty, said he had intended to report the cases on the previous Saturday, but as he was unwell he did not come to Keswick that day. Fined £5 including costs.
Death of the Countess of Derwentwater – She was the lady who laid claim to the vast estates which formerly belonged to the Derwentwater family, and whose eccentric conduct in the prosecution of her claim has kept her constantly before the public.
Proposed Amateur Dramatic Society – It has been suggested on several hands that an amateur dramatic society should be formed. There ought to be no difficulty in doing so after the successful entertainment given last week, which evidenced the fact that Keswick possesses ample ability necessary for the object.
Crosthwaite Parish Magazine – The Rev T K Richmond, MA, has commenced to issue a monthly magazine for his parish, as a means of affording him a closer communication with his parishioners. This new magazine should find its way into all the homes in the parish.
Death of Mr Edward Highton
– It is with great regret that we have to record the death (on the 22nd
inst, aged 54 years, after a short and severe illness) of Mr Edward Highton,
who for so many years has been master of Brigham School. … Through the
instrumentality of Canon Battersby, who was then curate here, he was induced
to come to Keswick, and opened his first school at the Forge, on January 13th,
1851 with 19 scholars. The school at Brigham, founded by the vicar, the Rev
Frederick Myers, was opened on March 31st 1851 with 58 scholars, thus for nearly
30 years he has officiated without intermission, and earned for himself the
reputation of a kind, conscientious, painstaking, and successful teacher, at
the time of his decease there were over 190 scholars on the books.. In addition
to his scholastic duties he held the post of organist at St John’s Church.
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Three millions seems a large sum to expend on one thing in a nation – This, however, was the amount voted by Parliament last year for education in the United Kingdom. England and Wales absorbed two-thirds of it, the proportions being as follows:- Schools in connection with the Church of England took about one million, British Schools £206,000, Wesleyan Schools £106,000, Roman Catholic Schools £112,000, and Board Schools £500,000.
Sale of Armathwaite Hall estate – Armathwaite Hall estate, the property of Mr John Bowstead, has been sold to Mr Hartley for the sum of £95,000 (including £10,000 for timber) If we mistake not Mt Bowstead paid 75,000 for this property; but a large sum of money was subsequently spent in enlarging the mansion and beautifying the grounds.
“Cock Robin” caged – At Keswick Petty Sessions William Robinson was charged on adjournment with illegally being in possession of a click hook on 2nd January. … William Irving river watcher deposed that between half-past six and seven o’clock on the evening of 2nd January he had occasion to go over the bridge in Station Road, where he heard a whistle, and suspecting that it was a signal he jumped over the railings and ran down to the weir. He saw two men sitting in a crouched position watching the salmon rise. He caught hold of the defendant, who had the small click hook in his possession. … Robinson struggled to get away, upon which witness said “I know you well enough, ‘Cock’”. The defendant goes by the name of “Cock Robin”.
Military Funeral – On Sunday afternoon the remains of Band-Pvt Thos. Martin were interred at St John’s Church, with military honours. A large muster of his brother volunteers, under the command of Capt Crosthwaite assembled shortly before three o’clock.
Mungrisdale – On Friday evening Professor Brown delivered one of his popular lectures on Phrenology, in a room kindly granted for the occasion by Mr Martin.
Threlkeld – On Monday last six stirks (two heifers and four bullocks), the property of Mr Wm Taylor, Threlkeld Hall, died through the effects of eating “dead tongue” or hemlock, which had been thrown out of a gutter in a field near the house..
Man found dead on the mountains – Early on Wednesday morning it was reported that two men, named John Litt and John Vickers, who had been following the Blencathra hounds the previous day had not returned. Litt had been last seen on the bog about 200 yards west of Raven Crag where he had been, with other, resting and watching the hounds in the valley below. … Although he seemed somewhat fatigued he did not complain, and the hunters, absorbed in the chase did not look behind. When his absence from home was known a number of willing volunteers went to search for him. … Mr David Powley at once proceeded to Mr Oliver, the shepherd on Castlerigg Fell, who probably was the last person in Litt’s company, and the two immediately struck for the point where Mr Oliver parted from the deceased. They took a dog with them and it found the body not fifteen yards from the place they were making to. The searchers were: Messrs C. C. Thompson, Thos. Hodgson (Station Road), J. W. Grisdale, Thos. Harrison, David Powley, Joseph Bouch, Geo. Atkinson, Isaac Wren, Joseph Bristo, Benjamin Hodgson, A. G. Pettit, and Wm. Wood.
Keswick Local Board - Flagging – Mr Harrison proposed that the Board channel and make a footpath on the east side of Southey street..
Keswick Local Board – Gunpowder Carts – The Chairman said that it would be remembered that some time ago a memorial presented to the Board with respect to the gunpowder carts which came from Ambleside. They come into the town between three and four o’clock in the morning, and go out at six or seven. The carts are put into a shed, through which the men and horses have to go to the stable. Lights are taken into the shed and the neighbours were not unnaturally alarmed.
150,000 Cabbage Plants for sale – Early York, Enfield market, Cocoa Nut, Vanack, and Drumhead or cattle Cabbage. The above have been transplanted and are extra strong and healthy plants, Apply to George B Muckle, Nurseryman, Keswick.
Serious Accident – A very serious accident occurred at Threlkeld quarry on Tuesday afternoon. A shot had been fired, apparently without much effect, above the place where a number of men were working. They had not long resumed their work, when a large piece of rock, detached by the explosion, dropped away and fell. Two men, William Hindmoor, of the Salutation Inn, and William Tyson, of Guardhouse, were very badly bruised, the latter so seriously that it was necessary to carry him home on a stretcher.
Letter: Our National
Vice – Sir I am very anxious to distribute gratuitously a little
book called “Salvation for the Drunkard”, recently published by
Mr Ernest Gough. I will gladly send a copy to anyone writing for it, in the
hope that it may prove of moral and material benefit to those unhappily in need
of its advice … Bessie Chambers, London, SW.
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In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: April 1880
Wrestling in London – The annual gathering of the Cumberland and Westmorland Wrestling Society was brought off on Good Friday at the Lillie Bridge Grounds, London, in the presence of a large company of spectators.
Formation of a Bicycle Club – A bicycle club has been formed in Keswick, and Mr W Atkinson, High Street, has been elected president and treasurer.
Impediments in Speech – Mr Charles Oliver, 7, The Crescent, Carlisle, who has a most successful method of curing impediments of speech, will visit Keswick, on Monday for a week. Mr Oliver has a number of excellent testimonials.
Volunteer Intelligence – According to an order from the Horse Guards, War Office, dated 15th March, the 1st Administrative Battalion Cumberland Rifle Volunteers has been consolidated into a single corps, with head quarters at Keswick. The corps will be numbered “1st Cumberland Rifle Volunteer Corps,” and its maximum establishment will consist of thirteen companies, thus divided:- 2 lieut-colonels, 2 majors, 13 captains, 13 lieutenants, 7 second lieutenants, 1 adjutant, 1 quarter-master, and 1 surgeon – 1300 of all ranks, divided into companies of 100 each.
A Practical Compliment – At the final meeting of the Waterworks Company, on the motion of the Rev Canon Battersby, seconded by Mr J Fisher Crosthwaite, it was resolved to present Mr Daniel Till with £25, as a mark of the appreciation in which they held his long and faithful service as manager etc, for the company.
The Fishing Season – This season, judging from present circumstances, promises some good sport. On Friday last Mr Christopher Alcock caught with the fly three lake trout which scaled five pounds.
St John’s-in-the-Vale – Benefice augmentation. Towards the further augmentation of the vicarage of St-John’s-in-the-Vale, the Governors of Queen Anne’s Bounty, at their annual meeting on Wednesday last, have made a grant of £400, making with the local benefactions (£360), the grant from the Carlisle Diocesan Church Extension Society (£200), a total of £960.
Death of Rev J Clifton Ward F. G. S. etc – It is with unfeigned regret we record the death of the Rev James Clifton Ward, which took place at Rydal Parsonage, on Thursday morning last, after a brief illness. … Those who knew him personally were surprised at the amount of work he got through. Physically he was not strong, yet his active brain and habits assisted him to accomplish a great deal where many would have broken down.
Spring and Summer Fashions – Cartmel Brothers beg to announce their return from the markets with a large and varied assortment of Newest Goods for the Coming Season.
Greta Lodge -To be Sold by Auction, upon the premises, at Greta Lodge, Keswick, on Thursday, by instructions of Mrs Langton, who is leaving the district, the following valuable household furniture…..
A Borrowdale Man Shot
in America – The New York Herald of 4th inst., gives an account of
an outrage in New York, in which Mr W. Simpson was shot by Geo. C. Randolph,
against whom Mr Simpson was prosecuting a libel suit. The prisoner shot Mr Simpson
with a revolver while the latter was seated at his desk, and again after he
had fallen to the floor, and was about to fire for a third time, when seized
and disarmed. Mr Simpson is in a precarious state, but hopes are entertained
for his recovery.
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In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: May 1880
Boarding and Day School for Girls – Head Mistress, Miss Brindle, assisted by experienced Masters and certificated English, French, and German Governesses. Pupils prepared for University and other Examinations. Preparatory Class for little children partly on the Kindergarten System. Greta hall, Keswick.
Derwentwater Regatta and Athletic Games – will be held on Wednesday, the 18th August – for particulars apply to Mr H.I. Jenkinson, Keswick.
Ready-Made Boot and Shoe Business etc. – To be disposed of, by private treaty, and may be entered upon at once, the Business which for many years has been successfully carried on by Mr E. Glover, who has taken the Tower Hotel, Portinscale. The Stock, which consists of Ready-made Boots, Shoes, and Slippers, Fishing Tackle in great variety, Pipes and Tobacconists’ Goods, etc, etc, may be taken at valuation. The shop is well established, in a good situation, and for persons with little capital and business aptitude such an opportunity is rarely to be met with. – Mr E Glover, Market Square, Keswick.
Keswick Bicycle Club – Seven of the members of this newly formed club were out for their first ride on Saturday evening, and went as far as the Pheasant Hotel, Piel Wyke. After a rest and refreshment the journey home was commenced, and the members expressed themselves satisfied there was a benefit in company riding.
Crosthwaite High School – R. Durnford Esq., one of the Assistant Charity Commissioners, has signified his intention to confer with the Governors of this foundation on the operation of the scheme. The interview has been arranged in reply to a memorial presented from the Governors to the Charity Commissioners a short while ago, in which they stated the upper department had been a failure.
Keswick Police Court – Abraham Harrison, of St John’s Vale, was charged with having neglected to send two of his children, Esther and Elizabeth Harrison, regularly to school… The case was a very hard one, the following being the circumstances:- Defendant is parted from his wife, and she has the custody of the children, but defendant being responsible for his wife’s actions was summoned for neglecting to send the children to school. … The Bench took a lenient view of the case, and pointed out that although they were almost exceeding their duty they did not see any use in fining him. He was informed that had there been a vacancy in the industrial school the children would have been taken from the mother and sent there.
Hawkshead – The County palatine of Lancaster is considered one of the wealthiest counties in the kingdom, yet one would not think so to look at the miserable room where the petty sessions are held at Hawkshead. There is an entire absence of accommodation, the three advocates present at the last sessions had the use of a table about 2ft by 14in., whilst one of the clerks had the top of the harmonium all to himself, the room being occasionally used for public entertainment, having been built by public subscription for that purpose.
Presentation – Mr T E Higton, successor to his father at the Brigham School, has been presented with several handsome testimonials from the inhabitants of Farlam, in recognition of the earnestness and energy with which he has interested himself in the Schools, Band of Hope, Choir, Reading Room, and Co-operative Stores, eyc, while living amongst them.
Land Value in Keswick – As an example of the increased land value in Keswick, the following particulars will prove interesting. The income from the land given by the parishioners to the High School as an endowment was returned by Nicholson and Burns, in 1777, at £18; by Hutchinson, in 1794, at £40; by Lyson, in 1816, at £118; in 1861 it was returned at £124; and at present it amounts to £144; which includes the purchase money of the land taken by the C.K. and P Railway. This sum is further increased by £14 0s 6d interest on legacy left by the late Henry Denton Esq..
Mungrisdale –A Wholesale Marriage – On Saturday last a somewhat remarkable circumstance occurred in this sequestered dale, the marriage of the whole of the members of one household. A brother and sister lived together, and they also had the company of a lodger, who having gained the favour of his fair landlady persuaded her to become one with him. The brother apparently did not care to be left in loneliness, and was persuaded to receive a partner in his joys, so the four proceeded to Caldbeck, where they “gave each other away” and undertook the solemn duties imposed by the marriage ceremony of the Church of England. Much happiness to them!
A Slight Mistake – A yeoman from one of the neighbouring dales was at Cockermouth on Monday and bought a bullock. After driving to the station what he thought was his beast, somebody called his attention to the fact that it was an old cow. Cattle is a delicate subject for conversation at “their house”.
Keswick Petty Sessions – Illegal Storage of Dynamite – William Bawdon, manager of the Threlkeld lead mine, was summoned for storing 79lbs. of dynamite and 14lbs. of detonating tubes on unregistered premises
Keswick County Court – Alcock and Abbott v The Threlkeld Mining Co. – The claim was for £10 damages for stone and rubbish deposited on their land through the bursting of a watercourse, caused by mining operations.
Manders’ Grand National Waxworks – will visit Keswick Friday and Saturday
Mr E Greenhow’s
Bread Van – will commence to run through the town and district on
Tuesday morning next with a supply of superior Bread, Cakes, Muffins, Rolls,
Confectionery, Etc.
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In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: June 1880
Photographic Portraits – of the Late Rev J Clifton Ward FGS in carte and cabinet sizes – charming mementoes of a deservedly popular clergyman. G P Abraham, Lake Road Studio.
The Ground Game Bill – The agricultural grievance which this bill, giving tenants the right to shoot hares and rabbits, thus attempts to remedy is, of course, very unequally distributed. In some parts of the country the ground game is charged with much of the responsibility for the agricultural depression. In the various reports on this subject, which were published in the autumn of last year, the complaint of the farmers in the most depressed districts was as much of the ravages of the ground game as of the unfavourable state of the weather or the competition of foreigners.
Mrs W Storey, Penrith Road. – on Friday last, caught a fine specimen of the oak moth, which she has presented to the Keswick Museum of Local Natural History.
Boating Extraordinary – On Sunday evening, two young men, of more strength of body than mind, afforded considerable amusement to a large number of people by some “tall” rowing. They took a boat from one of the landings, and as they could not get pout bow first, one asked if he was pulling the right way. A wag answered that either end of that boat would go first, whereupon he turned himself round and rowed better than half-way across the lake and back in a zig-zag course, oars reverse and tiller hard over.
Keswick Local Board – Mr Mumberson called attention to the fact that three committees were summoned at one hour on Monday night. It was simply impossible for three committees to discuss different subjects in one room at the same time, and he would suggest that the meetings be called for different evenings, or that the committees be merged into one general committee..
Lost – on Wednesday, a Turtle Dove. Whoever has caught the same will be rewarded on its restoration to T. Bakewell, High Street.
Wanted an Apprentice – to the Blacksmith business. Apply to Joseph Birkett, Gatey’s Yard.
Keswick Bicycle Agency – Bicycles bought, sold or exchanged. Bicycles on sale or hire. Bicycle riding taught.
Singular Phenomenon – On Tuesday afternoon a heavy black cloud was seen to settle on the highest portions of the Helvellyn range, as seen from the Latrigg side, and upon its clearing away the summit was white with snow. Scawfell was also covered with snow the same day.
Keswick Petty Sessions – The Borrowdale Road Case. Thomas Wilson was summoned for that, on the 20th day of April, he “unlawfully and wilfully did injure the surface of a certain highway leading through the village of Stonethwaite, and then digging up the same for a c3ertain distance, so as to cause water to flow thereon, doing damage to the amount of 30s (£1-50)
The Visitor Season – One of our Whitehaven contemporaries announces the commencement of the tourist season at this fashionable watering place. We are glad to hear it, and should be more so to see the large number of visitors, of whom there are not nearly so many as we should expect during the present beautiful weather.
Accident – On Monday evening Miss Gillespie was unfortunately thrown froma horse and somewhat severely cut and bruised. In company with another young lady Miss Gillespie was going for a short ride, but before she had scarcely left her brother’s yard some strange feeling overcame her and she was oblivious of all that transpired afterwards.
Mounted Rifles – The Whitehaven News announces that a movement is on foot at Keswick to raise a troop of mounted rifles, and that “there is every good prospect of seeing it accomplished, as upwards of fifty aspirants have already promised to joined.” We are sorry to blight the hopes of young men, but in the public interest, and for their own safety, we pray that this may never be realised. The equestrian club, from which the idea springs, has (so it is currently said) already spoilt the majority of the saddle horses in the town. If anybody wants a ride now, he can only get as far as the field where the horse grazes, and, if he does not get off then he stands a chance of being thrown over the gate.
Sales by Auction – Sale of Bacon and a number of Miscellaneous Articles, this day, in the Market Place, Keswick, at one o’clock prompt
The Keswick District Christian Workers Band – This society, which has been in existence for a year and a half, has just issued the plan of services for the next six months, and meetings are arranged to be held at Legburthwaite, Threlkeld, Forge, Wythburn, Briery, Thornthwaite, and Stonethwaite…. “The promoters of these missions wish it to be distinctly understood that the services are entirely unsectarian in their character, and are not substitutes for public worship but helps to the same.”
Thornthwaite Church
Choir – Mr William Till, who has been teaching the above choir music
on the tonic sol-fa system, has been engaged permanently by the vicar, the Rev
H. M. Short, as organist.
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In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: July 1880
Hay Grass For Sale – R Mumberson has been honoured with instructions from H P Senhouse Esq., to sell by auction, on Saturday, July 10th 1880, a field of excellent hay grass, of 5 acres situate at Lairthwaite, Keswick.
Sunday School Centenary – The celebration of the Raikes Centenary by the Church Sunday Schools within the Rural Deanery of Keswick was held on Tuesday… …The schools represented there according to the banners were: Crosthwaite, St John’s, Brigham, St John’s-in-the-Vale, Bassenthwaite, Borrowdale, Braithwaite, Newlands and Thornthwaite. Threlkeld School arrived by the half-past two train, and were too late to take part in the procession from the Market Place to Crosthwaite Church.
Window Smashing – James Lindsay (12), Jonathan Lindsay (10), James Simpson (11), and Wm Davidson (12) were summon3ed for wilfully breaking a number of panes of glass at an unoccupied joiner’s shop at Braithwaite – the boys pleaded guilty.
Dogs’ True Friend – James’s Dog Powders restore & preserve their health and vigour, as proved by testimonials enclosed with every box.
Desirable Estate in the Lake District For Sale – All that messuage, tenement or farm called “Low House”, situate in Newlands, in the parish of Crosthwaite, containing by estimation 60 acres or thereabouts; together with a Flock of 299 Heath-going sheep, in excellent condition, belonging to the said farm, which has an unlimited right of common on Newlands Fells.
A Frivolous Charge – Thomas Abbott, farmer, Borrowdale, was summoned at the instance of the Excise for keeping a carriage without a license. It appeared that the defendant’s sons had given a neighbouring farmer “a lift”, when they were pounced upon by the exciseman and his superior officer. The Bench dismissed the summons
A Dog Case – William Forrester, farmer, Threlkeld, who also carries on the business of butcher at Keswick, was summoned for keeping a dog without a certificate of exemption or a license. Mr Dobinson, excise-officer, stated that on the 21st of May he saw the defendant, and requested him to take out a license for his dog, but he refused to do so…. … The Bench dismissed the summons.
A Keswick Volunteer at Wimbledon – Private Wm. Hodgson, of the Keswick Company of Rifle Volunteers, was one of the highest scorers in the Alfred competition, having obtained 34 out of a possible 35 points. His prize was £5. There was no higher score in the competition.
Mosedale - Stone-Ends’ Pic-Nic – The very popular outdoor gathering was held in a field kindly granted for the occasion by Mr Wilson, adjacent to his mansion, and was attended by a large number of people congregated from the adjacent villages, some even coming from as far as Caldbeck, Skelton, Penrith and other places. The exceeding beauty of the place selected, under the shadow of Carrock, no doubt inducing not a few lovers of the picturesque to make a pilgrimage to this romantic place.
The Royal Agricultural Show at Carlisle – Mr Thomas Nelson, of Bewaldeth, Keswick, took the first prize of £25 for two-year old shorthorn bulls, with his “Prince Imperial”. Mr Edward Hawell, of Lonscale, Keswick, secured two first prizes and a second for Herdwick sheep, beating the famed Gatesgarth breeder Mr Edward Nelson.
Civil Service Examination – We have pleasure in recording that in the above examination for the Inland Revenue Department, Mr J Sandford Hodgson, of Lake Road, Keswick, was classed 39th in about 1,000 competitors for some 70 vacancies.
Keswick Convention – The sixth annual Convention for the promotion of practical holiness will commence on Monday evening, when a preparatory meeting will be held in the marquee at half-past seven.
Mosedale – A Fox among the Poultry – At about six o’clock on Monday morning, as four men were proceeding to their work at Threlkeld mines, they saw a fox coming from Stone Ends farm with a cockerel thrown over his shoulder. The men immediately gave chase but Mr Fox, thinking of the “loved ones at home” and not properly estimating the speed of his pursuers, did not relinquish his prize until nearly at the top of Carrock Fell. The bird was not dead when found.
To be Sold by Auction – upon the premises, all that commodious and first class accustomed inn, known by the name of the “Pack Horse” Inn, situate in the centre of the Market Place, Keswick, together with the extensive Stabling, Out-buildings and premises belonging to the same, comprising two substantial stone built five stall Stables, Hayloft, Warehouse, etc.
Fatal Quarry Accident
at Yew Crag – An accident occurred at the quarry, Yew Crag, on Monday
afternoon, from the effects of which a man, named Samuel Beal, aged 30 years
and a native of Cornwall, lost his life.
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In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: August 1880
The Corn Rick Stand – This useful article is now being more generally adopted where the stathel has hitherto been a stranger in the rick yard, and the iron form of it is rapidly taking the place of the primitive stone and wood description, for the simple reason that the other material is more durable, requires no repairs, makes the framing more efficient, and lastly, where the wood and stone structure is worthless after a lease, the iron stand realises nearly as much as it originally cost.
Mungrisdale Endowed School – A meeting of the trustees was held on Monday for the purpose of electing a new schoolmaster. There were present Mr H C Howard in the chair, Rev Mr Carter (Raughten Head), Rev T Mornington (Skelton), Rev Hugh Derrig (Mungrisdale), Messrs M Cockbain, A Todhunter, T Barrow and T S Barrow, secretary. The other trustees, we understand, declined to put in an appearance, on account of what they believe to be harsh treatment to the retiring schoolmaster.
C. K. & P. Railway – The dividend of the Cockermouth, Keswick, and Penrith Railway intended to be proposed for the past half-year is at the rate of 4 ½ per cent per annum.
Bicycle Race – On Saturday afternoon a bicycle race, from Peil Wyke to Crosthwaite Church, took place between Joseph Birkett and Thomas Axon. The match was the outcome of a challenge, and was for £3-10s a side. … The roads were heavy and to this extent more to the advantage of Axon than Birkett, whose staying power is so much stronger than that of his opponent. All in all, the race was a good one and though fairly beaten Axon was by no means disgraced. Birkett rode a “”Royal Mail” roadster machine, made by the Royal Sewing Machine Company.
Thornthwaite New Organ – It is proposed to purchase a new organ for Thornthwaite Church, and the REV H M Short has promised to contribute nearly a third of the probable cost. During the coming winter the choir will give a few concerts and it is expected from this and private liberality the remainder will be forthcoming.
Excursions in the Lake District – It is easy to divide the summer visitors to our beautiful Lake District broadly into two classes, viz., those who come for a few days only, and are content with “doing” the conventional routes, such as the Borrowdale and Buttermere round, the ascent of Skiddaw (or Skid-daw as tourists pronounce it), circuit of Bassenthwaite lake, etc., and those who settle down (generally in lodgings) for a longer time, say for two or three weeks, or perhaps the whole summer. Of the latter class, those who care about walking will naturally find a hundred excursions apart from the hackneyed hotel trips, more or less worthy of attention, some requiring a whole day, other merely a few hours.
The Honister Quarry Accident – The young man, Dover, whose accident we recorded in our second edition last week, is recovering.
The “Manchester Guardian” and Jenkinson’s Guide – In Tuesday’s edition of the Manchester Guardian, there appeared a somewhat paradoxical article on guide books. The writer while praising in one breath the “fullness and accuracy” of Mr Jenkinson’s descriptions, and lauding the simplicity of the directions given, falls foul of the book in the next, on the ground that those who “love and know” the district, especially the educated, object to Mr Jenkinson’s notions of “grandeur”, etc. What sublime nonsense
Regatta and Sports at Keswick – The regatta and sports organised by Mr H I Jenkinson were held on Wednesday, in very favourable circumstances, both as regards patronage and the weather. The sports were held in a field on the margin of the foot of the lake, and the boat and swimming races could be seen from it. During the morning, the following excursion trains arrived with the passengers enumerated: - York and Leeds, 214; Middlesbro, 426; Newcastle, 986; Manchester, 40; Preston, 112; Cleator Moor, 202; Carlisle via Penrith, 166; Carlisle via Maryport, 284; Whitehaven and Cockermouth, 536; total 3006.
Offences against the “Weights and Measures Act” – William Dixon, farmer, Fornside, St John’s-in-the-Vale, was summoned for having on 7th inst., a pair of potato scales 1 ½ oz against the purchaser.
Threlkeld Fair – for the sale of Sheep, Cattle, etc., will be held as usual on Thursday, Sept the 2nd inst.
Sale of Plant and Machinery– at Force Crag Mine on 14th September. R Mumberson, Auctioneer
Musical Stones – Messrs Till and Sons are continuing to attract good audiences at the Court Buildings. The music produced from the stones is pure and wonderfully rich in tone. … We think visitors ought not to miss such a treat
Proposed Enlargement
of St John’s Church, Keswick – A meeting to consider the desirableness
of enlarging St John’s Church, Keswick, was held in the Infant Schoolroom
on Thursday evening.
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In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: September 1880
Lost – on Monday evening, near Grange Bridge, a Black Cashmere Mantle
Challenge – Joseph Thwaites, Keswick, will shoot Wm. Postlethwaite, Keswick, at 200, 300, and 500 yds ranges, for from £1 to £5 a side; or will wrestle or jump him for the same amount.
Bowling Match – A bowling match between Peter Swindle, of the St John’s Green, and Pearson Wise, of the Oddfellows Green, and was played at the early part of the week, the conditions being a game on each green, 21 up. Both men are noted bowlers, and the vent caused great interest, but when Wise won the game on his opponent’s green, by 21 to 12, the result was considered a “moral”. The second game was played and ended in favour of Swindle by one point, therefore Wise was the winner on the two games by eight points.
The Postage Stamp Savings Scheme – The scheme was recently mentioned in the House of Commons by Mr Fawcett for the encouragement of small deposits in Post Office Savings Banks, by allowing twelve postage stamps affixed to a form provided form the purpose to be received as a deposit of a shilling, comes into operation on the 13th inst.
Threlkeld Presentation to Mr Butler– As a mark of esteem, the inhabitants of Threlkeld and the district have presented Mr Butler, the retiring schoolmaster, with a silver lever watch, on the dome of which is engraved a suitable inscription.
Notice – Mr Keenliside is requested to announce that in consequence of persons abusing the privilege of landing at Derwentwater Bay and walking in the woods, none will henceforth be allowed to land or walk in the woods other than persons who have obtained a card from him. This notice, of course, does not apply to those residents of Keswick, etc., who have personally already received permission.
Women’s Suffrage – An Address in support of the claim of Women Householders and Ratepayers to the Parliamentary Franchise, will be delivered an the Oddfellows’ Hall, Keswick, on Wednesday evening next Sep 22nd 1880, by Mrs Oliver Scatcherd (of Leeds)
We are informed – that a number of the publicans in Keswick and district are about to join the Licensed Victuallers’ Association, for the protection of their interests against unnecessary harassment.
Buttermere Death of a Noted Herdwick – Mr Edward Nelson, Gatesgarth, has sustained a loss in the death of his celebrated “Beggar Lad”, four years old, and winner of thirteen prizes, including the first in his class at the Royal Show at Kilburn last year.
Keeping Powder without a Licence – John Kirkby, manager of Force Crag Mining Co., Braithwaite, was summoned for unlawfully storing 120lbs of gunpowder in an unregistered place. Defendant pleaded guilty
Approach of Winter – The somewhat bitter cold experienced on Sunday, caused by the storm of hail and rain, was the first instalment of the approaching winter. The tops of Causey Pike and other mountains in the direction of the storm were white afterwards with hailstones.
Horticultural Show Morality–
The committee of the Keswick Horticultural and Cottage Gardeners‘ Association
have devoted four meetings within the past few weeks to inquire into alleged
illegal practices at the recent show. Messrs M Postlethwaite and W Telford charged
Mr Joshua Dobson with having received prizes for vegetables (cabbage, cauliflower
and peas), which were not of his own growth.
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In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: October 1880
Alcock’s (late Atkinson’s) Lake Hotel – This old-established and well-reputed Hotel is most comfortably situated in the town, for while it is in close proximity to the principal business part it enjoys all the advantages of the suburbs. From the windows and balcony may be seen lovely glimpses of Lake Derwentwater, Lodore waterfall, etc., while an uninterrupted view is commended of the whole of the surrounding mountains.
Alleghanians!! (Vocalists and Bell Players) – “The most charming musical treat ever enjoyed” will give their Elaborate and Surprising Musical Entertainment in the Oddfellows’ Hall, Keswick.
First Salmon – Mr W Cowperthwaite while fishing for trout with the fly on Saturday last, in the Greta, succeeded in landing a salmon 10 lbs in weight.
Sheep Killed by Lightning – During a recent thunderstorm in this neighbourhood two lambs and a Herdwick sheep – a prize taker of other days – the property of Mr Hawell, of Lonscale, were killed by lightning near the top of Latrigg.
Stint Owners’ Meeting– A meeting of the owners of the stints upon the stinted pastures of Mosedale and High Fells, St John’s, in the manor of Castlerigg and Derwentwater, was held at the Court Buildings on Saturday. The meeting was to consider an application from the owners of Matterdale Common to join at the cost of erecting a boundary fence. On the whole, the application was well received, butb it was felt that th owners of the Threlkeld Common should also fence their pasture, and before passing any resolution on the subject the following gentlemen were appointed a deputation to wait upon the Threlkeld owners:- Messrs Hudson (Penrith), J Crozier (Riddings), J Crosbie, D Pape and Martin,
Another Marvel – The Photophone – Professor Graham Bell, in illustration of the homely old saying “Wonders will never cease” has got in advance of those marvellous matters of fact, the telephone, the microphone, and the phonograph, and has devised an instrument, which he calls the photophone, and which will transmit speech by the simple agency of light, without electric wires or any mechanical medium.
To be Let, The City Farm, Wythburn,. – containing about 160 acres of arable, meadow, and pasture land. A flock of 305 heath-going sheep and stints for four to five hundred sheep will be let with the farm
Braithwaite Sheep Fair – This annual fair was held on Thursday, when there was a large show of sheep, the great bulk of which changed owners at prices considerably in advance of those of last year.
Resignation of Mr Till – The Chairman said that he had just had the following letter put into his hand, and to which he wished to draw attention: - “ To the Chairman and Members of the Keswick Local Board of Health. Gentlemen, I beg to tender my resignation to you of all the offices I hold under the Local Board of Health, via., Surveyor, Inspector of Nuisance, Collector, and Manager of the waterworks, and request to be liberated in three months, my duties to terminate on the 31st December, 1880. I am, your obedient servant, Daniel Till”
Letting of Toll Gates – On Saturday last Mr Mumberson let by auction at the Drill Shed, Keswick, the toll gates under the management of the Penrith and Cockermouth turnpike trust. The several gates were let as under:- Castlegate and Skirsgill (Penrith) £480 to Messrs Winn and Foster; Brigham and Brow Top £255 to Mr G Johnston; Kirkgate £200, Messrs Winn and Foster; St Helens £73-10s to John Robinson; Woodend £29 to William Nicholson; Scales £33 to John Airey; Wythburn £152 to Winn and Foster; Brackenrigg £106 to Mr Blair; Whinlatter £20 to Mr Vicars; High Hill and Crosthwaite Side Bar £427 to Messrs Winn and Foster.
Wrestling Match – On Saturday last a match for £5 a side, the best of five falls, should have been contested at Rosthwaite between Joseph Thompson, of Borrowdale, and John Clark, of Langdale, better know as “Starkey.” Clark obtained the first fall, and Thompson the two succeeding. After that, Clark would not take hold again, and said so openly. The men were on the ground full three hours and but for the presence of the police there might have been some rough work between the partisans. Both umpires and referee considered that the stake should be given to Thompson – as, indeed, there is no dobt it should be; but to be assured in the matter it is said that the case will be laid before the editor of Bell’s Life in London for a decision.
Braithwaite School Presents – Through the kindness of the Rev H M Short and Lady Cox a number of handsome books have been presented to the children attending the day and Sunday School..
Scales Wesleyan Foreign Missions – The annual meeting was held in the Wesleyan Chapel on Wednesday evening; Mr R Mumberson (in the absence of Mr M Airey) ij the chair. The attendance was very large, the proceedings were hearty and the collection better than that of last year. The speakers were the Rev W T Baker, Messrs Thompson, Dunbobbin, and Atkinson. The missionary collectors, Mrs Alcock, Mrs Allinson and Mrs Airey have also to report a satisfactory advance on last year.
Notice – A Public Meeting will be held in the Court Buildings, Keswick, on Monday, November 15th, to consider the question of the purchase of Fitz Park as a recreation ground for the town of Keswick. The Fitz park is a field on the west side of the road leading to the railway station, and as it has been offered for sale in building plots, public attention has been drawn tom the fact that it will be a great loss if such a piece of ground, so favourably situated, be not secured for recreation and general purposes of the town.
Projected Tramway – Sir, It may not generally known to the lovers and frequenters of this lovely neighbourhood that a railway or steam tram-road is in contemplation (a survey having recently made been) for the purpose of conveying slates from Honister Crag Quarries, above Borrowdale, to Braithwaite, a station on the Cockermoiuth Keswick and Penrith railway. The route selected is well known, and is perhaps one of the most beautiful and picturesque imaginable. Commencing in the very wilds of Borrowdale, continuing and following the western side of Derwentwater lake at some altitude, it descends from thence at the foot of the lesser cat Bel, and so crosses the opening of the far-famed Vale of Newlnads, to its destination.
St John’s-in-the-Vale New Mission Room – Ground has been purchased at Legburthwaite, from Mr J Dowthwaite, as a site for a mission hall, on the south side of Castle Rock. The proposed building will be thirty feet in length by twenty in breadth, and will be capable of seating about 100 persons. It will be used for temperance and other moral objects, but principally for unsectarian religious services, such as are held in various parts of the district by the Keswick Christian Workers’ Association.
In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: November 1880
A Public Meeting will be held – … to consider the question of the purchase of Fitz Park as a recreation ground for the town of Keswick.
Keswick Urban Sanitary Authority – Tenders are invited for the Kerbing and Channelling the Side Walk on the east side of Southey Street Keswick
Keswick Local Board – The Plosh – the Surveyor reported that he had served notices on the owners of the property with respect of the nuisance complained of. … He would order that no slops should be thrown in the front. … He suggested that a drain be put in from Mr Knubley’s gate to go along the front and that a gully be put in for each property … then tenants could throw out their slops.
The Fox and the Goose – Master Reynard paid a visit to Goosewell farm on Saturday night last and kill two geese.
The Fitz Park Scheme – It is with pleasure we are enabled to announce that conditionally upon carrying out the whole of the scheme, viz., the purchase of Fitz park and the field on the opposite side of the road, the Messrs Hewetson have increased their promised donation to £2000.
The Keswick Museum – will be open on Saturdays from noon to 9 pm, free until further notice.
Storm and Flood – The storm of rain which commenced on Friday night was so great in extent that on Saturday morning Borrowdale presented a scene of flood which had not been equalled for many years, after so short a duration of rain. The road approaching Rosthwaite was inundated at the lower parts fully to the depth of a yard and a quarter, and foot passengers had to take advantage of the accommodation afforded by the wall which is covered with flat stones for that purpose.
Proposed Recreation Ground and Town’s Field for Keswick – The committee appointed for this project held their first meeting on Thursday evening. Mr J Fisher Crosthwaite was appointed chairman, Mr Peter Thompson treasurer, Mr Harry Irwin Jenkinson hon. Secretary, and the following gentlemen an executive committee: - Rev Canon Battersby, Rev A Howson, Rev T K Richmond, Col Greenall, Dr Knight and Messrs George Brash, C Christopherson, W Kinsey Dover, Peter Harrison, J Hall, Thos Hodgson, Isaac Hodgson, Edwin Jackson, J Keenliside, Isaac Lowthian, R R Lowthian, R Mumberson, G Stamper, W Wilson and W Wood.
Seasonable benevolence – Mr J Keenliside has received instructions from Mr Thos Hewetson, Buckfastleigh, South Devon, to supply a ton of coal each to sixteen of the poorer people of Keswick
Skating – On Saturday afternoon last one or two of the more venturesome class were skating on the edge of Twyfoot Tarn, and on Sunday a larger number ventured onto the ice.
Curling – The first game of the season was played on Monday upon the ice which had formed on the overflow of Mr Miles Wilson’s meadow, between the Lodore and Borrowdale Hotels.
Keswick Literary and Scientific Society – The second lecture of the session was given by R Russell, Esq, CE, FGS, on the subject “Iron Ores: How they occur and the modes of working”
Keswick Petty Sessions – Illegal Storage of Gunpowder – John Shepherd Sawrey, solicitor, was summoned for permitting the illegal storage of 204 lbs of gunpowder in an unregistered place, at the old plumbago mine in Borrowdale. ... Inspector Richardson deposed that on Wednesday, the 3rd of the present month, from information he had received, he went to the wad mine in Borrowdale. He saw Mrs Dixon at Seathwaite. She said her husband was the agent but was ill in bed. Witness said to her: “I understand there is some powder at the mine,” and she replied that there was, in the middle house. He asked for the boy to accompany him and he went to the place described by Mrs Dixon where he found four 50 lbs casks and a canister containing about 4 lbs standing in the middle of the floor. There are three rooms on that flat and the powder was in the middle one. The place was not registered... Sept Taylor asked: If the place had been registered, was it a proper store? Witness: No. By the Chairman: There is no habitation within a mile, and at present the mine is closed. Supt Taylor remarked that there was no apparent danger. Acting upon a precedent established in reference to the seizure at Force Crag Mine, a few weeks ago, the Bench ordered the forfeiture of the powder and the defendant to pay costs.
In and around Keswick 125 Years ago: December 1880
Great Sale of Books, Skates, &c – … Mr Edward Glover, who is giving up business, to Sell by Auction, upon the premises… from 300 to 400 pairs of Children’s Ladies’ and Gentlemen’s Boots, Shoes and Slippers, Gentlemen’s Leggings, 100 pairs of New and Second-hand Skates in all sizes and makes.
Stable accident – A young man, named Harrison, employed by Mr Kendall Nixon, Monks’ Hall, Keswick, was kicked by a horse which he was grooming on Sunday, and was somewhat severely cut about the head.
Vagrancy – James Martin, native of Ireland, was charged before a magistrate on Tuesday, with begging at Threlkeld the previous day. He was committed for 14 days.
High School Governors – A vestry meeting was held at Crosthwaite Church on Thursday afternoon, to elect six governors for the High School, in place of those whose term expires on Monday next.
“The Crosthwaite Charities” – was the title of a paper read at the ordinary meeting of the Keswick Literary and Scientific Society. … There are in all sixteen charities in the parish. Francis Huntingdon, of Keswick, yeoman, by his will dated May 5th 1734 gave unto the poor of the township of Keswick £90 the interest thereof to be distributed annually … for ever. … Clark’s and Grave’s Charity which was called the “Good Friday Charity”. One Thomas Grave gave money which purchased land of £100 a year value to be distributed to the poor on Good Friday. … The Rev James Clark’s rent charge, issuing out of land late the property of James Stanger Esq, deceased, is £2 a year…Other amalgamated charities are: John Adamson’s, Mark Stanley’s, Thomas Howe’s, Miss Elizabeth Dunlop’s, Peter Udall’s, also Youdale and Wilkinson’s Dole. Hugh Tickell’s Charity. Hugh Tickell suffered much for his “testimony” [as a “Quaker”] both in the spoiling of his goods and imprisonment of his body for tithes; as in 1664 he, and four Friends more, were cast into Carlisle goal by Henry Marshall, priest of Crosthwaite…Grace Wren’s Charity. On 23rd January 1721 Grace Wren of Castlerigg, spinster, made her will … forty pounds in trust for the use of poor children born in the parish of Crosthwaite … Miss Francis Dunlop left £166 1s 3d … Mr Jos. Fisher of Portinscale gave £106 19s 1d … In 1848 the Marshall Charity was founded, which consists of £1520 yielding £45 12s per annum, of which £35 12s is for education, and £10 for endowments of clergy, lectures and for sermons. … The Congregational Meeting House has an endowment from bequests dated 1715 and 1792 … The Chapelry of St John’s-in-the-Vale has from chapel stock 17s, from poor stock 15s, from Howe’s charity 13s 2d, and from Mark Stanley’s £3. Thomas Williamson and Agnes Williamson gave £20 the interest to buy fresh meat, pickled, hanged, and dried, to be given to the poor of St John’s and Castlerigg for their relief on stormy days in the winter. . Crosthwaite High School is endowed with 46a 1r 36p of land … created originally by the parishioners taxing themselves for that purpose. … Sir John Bankes’ Charity … In 1642 he made his will, leaving £200 to build a workhouse … He gave £30 per annum for three years to “raise a stock of Wool, Flax, Hemp, Thread, Iron and other necessary wear and stuff to set the poor on work who were born in the parish of Crosthwaite”
Rowdyism – The students at the School of Art have lately been annoyed by a number of boys, in such a degree as to greatly interfere with the work.
The Fitz Recreation Ground – The movement for raising a fund for this object is being well responded to. … The tradesmen of Keswick have, with very few exceptions, contributed liberally..
St John’s Church Enlargement – The contracts for the work necessary upon the enlargement of St John’s Church, Keswick, have been declared as follows:- masonry, Messrs Bromley; joiner’s work, Mr J D Lancaster; plumber’s work, Mr Wm Dunbobbin; and painter’s work, Mr W Hall.
14 July 2006