Nov. 10th.—Charles Woolverton, Esq., had been unanimously elected Mayor.
Owing to the recent gales, the following fishing smacks were reported as missing:—The “Prince Albert,” “Thomas and Fanny,” “Armada,” “Echo,” “Royal Diadem,” “Lord Raglan,” “Eugene,” “Garland,” and “Pursuit.”
1,500 wind-bound vessels had sailed through the Roads northwards.
Dec. 4th.—The Justices had dismissed a summons for payment of rate in consequence of the action of the Overseers in not placing the rated person on the Municipal list, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer arguing the case for the ratepayer, and the Vestry-Clerk appearing for the Overseers. As this raised a large question on the Register, it had caused some excitement in political circles, and further action was threatened.
Jan. 1st.—Charles Dashwood, Esq., had given a ball at the Assembly Rooms.
Jan. 12th.—Thomas Brightwen, Esq., had died at the age of 59.
Damage had been occasioned to several houses in the town by a heavy gale.
Jan. 26th.—Another wrecked vessel had been in contact with the Britannia Bier.
Jan. 29th.—Mr. J. H. Orde had been elected Borough Treasurer in the place of Mr. T. Brightwen deceased.
Two vessels had been in collision with the Newarp lightship.
Feb. 12th.—J. Tomlinson, Esq., had been elected Commodore of the Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club.
There had been a boiler explosion at Messrs. Bracey and Son’s Ropery.
Feb. 16th.—There had been very heavy gales and much loss to the shipping.
During one of these gales the Assembly Rooms had been discovered to be on fire, and this building thus sustained damage to the extent of £700 or £800.
Feb. 19th.—A meeting had been held at the Town Hall for the relief of the poor. The Mayor presided, and the Rev. Canon Nevill, Mr. Hammond, Major Orde, Mr. W. N. Burroughs, Mr. Gorell, Mr. John Clowes, Mr. Neave, and Mr. Laws took part in the proceedings. Between £200 and £300 was raised in the room.
Feb. 26th.—The organ in the Parish Church had been re-opened. This instrument appears from the report then issued to have been built by Jordan in 1732, and previously repaired in 1812 and 1840; the repairs this time costing £820.
March 12th.—Mr. Longley had been holding an Inquiry at the Tolhouse with regard to the alleged neglect of a pauper patient by Mr. Stafford (Surgeon for the North District).
March 19th.—Messrs. Blott had been prosecuted by the Haven Commissioners for obstructing the North River, when they were defended by Mr. F. Danby-Palmer, and the case adjourned in order to effect a settlement.
March 26th.—The Rifle Corps had attended Gorleston Church, and afterwards marched round that village. This was the first time such a parade had taken place.
April 9th.—Captain Smyth, R.N., and Captain Dent, R.N., had been promoted to the rank of Admiral.
April 13th.—The following had been the polling of the elected Guardians (there being in all 32 candidates).—North: S. Nightingale (C), 356; J. F. Neave (L), 308; J. D. Hilton (C), 292; S. Barge (C), 248. In this ward Mr. Cufaude had decided that Mr. Neave was disqualified,and had consequently declined to declare that gentleman elected, Mr. Neave’s solicitor (Mr. F. Danby-Palmer) had, however, taken a different view of the affair, and this question was to form the subject of further proceedings. Market: J. A. Norman (L), 429; C. C. Aldred (C), 365; W. Laws (C), 345. Regent: R. D. Barber, W. Worship, and C. Diver (no figures given.) St. George’s: J. W. de Caux (L), 356; J. Scott (L), 312; W. J. Foreman (C), 284. Nelson: G. Woolverton (C), 615.; J. Bracey (C), 548; F. Palmer (L), 392; J. Clowes (L), 345.
April 16th.—Mr. Cufaude had submitted an elaborate statement upon Mr. Neave’s case to the Local Government Board.
The constitution of the Guardians was then 10 Tories and 6 Liberals.
April 23rd.—“Yachting Items”: Mr. Palmer was building a schooner yacht. Mr. Preston had purchased the “Otter.” The “Red Rover” (Nightingale) was being altered, as was also the “Syren.”
Messrs. Mills and Blake had launched a new barge.
Mrs. Bowyer Vaux, her son, and a friend, had been upset in a sailing boat on Breydon.
April 30th.—At a sale of Gas Shares, those of £30 realised £45 per share, and those of £7 10s., £11 10s. per share. It was stated that the maximum dividend of 8½ per cent. was regularly paid on this stock.
May 4th.—Sir Alexander Shafto Adair, Bart., (Lib.), and Lord Mahon (Con.) were candidates for East Suffolk.
May 14th.—Mr. J. Fenn had caught a perch weighing 3½ lbs. and 18 inches in length.
May 18th.—There was a report current of a fracas having taken place between two leading members of the Tory party during a meeting at the Star Hotel.
May 21st.—The Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club Dinner had taken place at the Town Hall.
May 25th.—“It is stated that the gallant gentleman, (Major Foreman) who figured in themeléethat arose at the late conference of the Conservative party is about to seek legal redress for the attack made upon him (by Mr. E. H. L. Preston.)”
The 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers (under the command of Captain Commandant William Danby-Palmer) had attended St. Peter’s Church.
May 28th.—On Her Majesty’s Birthday, the Rifle Volunteers under the command of Major Orde had fired afeu de joiein the Market Place, and the Artillery, under the command of Captain William Danby-Palmer, had fired a salute of 21 guns from the South Battery.In the evening the officers messed at the Crown and Anchor, when the following were among the guests present—The Mayor (C. Woolverton, Esq.), the Deputy-Mayor (S. Nightingale, Esq.), Rev. B. Vaux, J. C. Smith, Esq., E.N.M., C. Diver, Esq., (Town Clerk), Captain Cubitt, Captain Alderson, N.M.A., Major Foreman, C. J. Palmer, Esq., and I. Preston, Esq.
June 4th.—The following had been the result of the East Suffolk Election:—
Lord Mahon (Con.)
3,456
Sir A. S. Adair, Bart. (Lib.)
3,285
Captain Alderson and Lieutenant Partridge, of the Norfolk Artillery Militia, had given a Ball at the Town Hall.
June 11th.—The Nottingham Order of Odd Fellows had held its annual festival at the Corn Hall, Bro. Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., P.I.F., taking the chair, supported by Bros. Moxon, E. P. Youell, W. Laws, W. J. Foreman, W. T. Fisher, J. H. Fellows, J. Bracey, and Mr. Wiltshire.
Mr. Cattermole (Librarian) had been presented with a testimonial in the shape of a watch of the value of £25 and a cheque for £31 10s.
June 15th.—Admiral Smyth, R.N., had resigned the office of Pier-Master after 35 years service.
June 18th.—The decision of the Local Government Board being in favour of Mr. F. Danby-Palmer’s contention, and against that of Mr. Cufaude, consequent thereon Mr. Neave was entitled to his seat at the Board of Guardians.
June 22nd.—The brigantine “Ethel” had been launched from Mr. Rust’s yard.
June 25th.—The officers of the Norfolk Artillery Militia had given a grand Military Ball at the Assembly Rooms.
Mr. C. S. D. Steward and party had caught 10 perch on Ormesby Broad, four of which weighed 12lbs.
The Yarmouth Co-operative Society was in liquidation, and Mr. Lovewell Blake, the liquidator, had summoned several of the contributors for arrears of call.
July 2nd.—Quarter-Master Doughty, Colour-Sergeant Chipperfield, Sergeants Lay and Wilshak and Privates Harpour and Wales had been selected to go to Wimbledon.
Mr. I. Preston, accompanied by his friend, Mr. T. M. Baker, had sailed for Holland in the river yacht “Otter.”
July 16th.—The opening services in connection with the New Middlegate Congregational Church had taken place. The Rev. J. C. Harrison preached from Psalm cxvi., 12 and 13; the cost of this building, &c., (less sale of old material) had amounted to £3,515 8s. 8d.; the architect was Mr. J. T. Bottle, the contractor Mr. William Hood, and the sub-contractors Messrs. Burgess, Dumbleton, Sargeson, and Barge.
The luncheon, in connection with the event, was held at the “Crown and Anchor,” when the Rev. W. Tritton presided; about 250 persons were present, addresses were delivered by the Chairman, the Rev. J. C. Harrison, the Rev. Dr. Mellor, and Messrs. S. W. Spelman, J. Crossley, J. T. Bottle and others.
July 23rd.—The D Troop B Brigade of the Royal Horse Artillery had arrived at the Southtown Barracks under the command of Colonel Mitchell, comprising 150 officers and men with 120 horses and 6 guns.
July 27th.—Upon Mr. Neave attending to take his seat at the Board of Guardians a “scene” took place, several members accusing Mr. Cufaude of partiality, which that gentleman indignantly denied.
August 13th.—Mr. Attwood had been returned as a Councillor for the St. Andrew’s Ward without opposition, in the place of Mr. Richmond deceased.
August 20th.—The following officers and men of the 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers had gone to Shoeburyness:—Captain Commandant William Danby-Palmer, Lieutenants T. Burton Steward and T. M. Baker, Sergeant Smith, Corporals Harrison and Sadd, Bombardiers Steward and Sayer, Gunners Allcock, Millican, and Woodhouse.
Captain Youell had (after eleven years’ service) retired from the Rifles.
Sept. 3rd.—A meeting had been held to raise a fund for the sufferers by the Franco-German war. The Mayor, the Vicar, Dr. Vores, Mr. J. H. Orde, Mr. C. C. Aldred, the Rev. W. Griffiths, and Mr. S. W. Spelman took part in the proceedings, and upwards of £100 was raised in the room.
Sept. 17th.—Mrs. Gray had bequeathed by will £100 to the Hospital, £19 19s. to the Sailors’ Home, and £10 to the Lying-in Charity.
Upwards of 60 boats had delivered fish at the Wharf, the price being £16 to £22 per last for fresh fish.
Sept. 24th.—The Queen’s bounty had been forwarded to Mrs. Spurge.
Oct. 5th.—At a meeting held at the Turk’s Head, J. Scott, Esq., in the chair, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer and Mr. Hinchman Hammond had been selected as candidates to contest the St. George’s Ward in the Liberal interest.
Mr. J. Petts, R.N., had resigned his command in the Coastguard after 40 years’ service, twelve of which had been spent in Yarmouth.
Oct. 15th.—No minister had attended at St. Peter’s Church to perform service in the afternoon of Sunday.
The old Jetty had been lengthened 60 feet.
Mr. E. Stagg (one of the Councillors for the Regent Ward) had died.
£149 13s. 6d. had been raised for the purpose of presenting a testimonial to Sergeant Berry (of the Police).
Mr. S. K. Smith had landed from one of his boats 24 lasts of herrings, which sold for £264.
It was calculated that some 2,000 French fishermen were then in Gorleston.
Oct. 26th.—Mr. Robert Rising (of Horsey) had been elected a Haven and Pier Commissioner in the place of Mr. Burroughes resigned.
Nov. 5th.—Owing to the extension of the franchise and the “split” in the Conservative camp, the Municipal Election had excited a good deal of attention, as the following report shows:—
“MUNICIPAL ELECTION.”As was expected, these elections were fought out with considerable spirit, the town throughout the day presenting all the aspects of a contested general election, cabs duly placarded with the names and claims of the candidates rushing about the streets in all directionsen routeto the various polling-places or committee-rooms.In the North Ward the Conservatives were early at work, and were enabled to put their candidates considerably ahead, Messrs. Worship and Hilton counting a formidable majority at an early stage of the contest. The friends of Messrs. Neave and Blyth were, however, far from dismayed, and worked with a degree of zeal that certainly deserved if it did not ensure success. In the course of the afternoon the Conservative majority had been greatly reduced, and it looked at one time as if Mr. Neave’s return would have been secured. The aspect of things nerved the Conservatives to renewed efforts and enabled them to keep ahead of their opponents, the result being the return of their candidates, Messrs. Worship and Hilton.In the Market Ward the greatest excitement prevailed, popular feeling being in favour of Mr. J. Norman (L) and Mr. I. Preston. The latter, although a Conservative, came forward on independent grounds, and as opposed to the compromise that has been entered into for the return of Messrs. Norman and Combe. The last-named gentleman was brought out under the auspices of that section of the Conservative party, better known as the “clique,” which evoked the determined opposition of the “independent” portion of the party. There was another candidate in the person of Mr J. Garratt (L), but that gentleman retired at an early stage of the contest in favour of Mr. Combe. Soon after the commencement of the polling, it became evident that Mr. Norman’s election would be safe, and that the real fight would be between Messrs. Combe and Preston. The last-named had a large staff of energetic supporters, and he was soon placed in a majority which no efforts on the part of his opponents could break down. The result, therefore, in this ward was the return of Messrs. Norman and Preston, which must be regarded as a great blow to the dominant section of the Conservative party, who strained every nerve to carry their man.The contest in the Regent Ward was of diminished interest as compared with the other parts of the town, and resulted in the return of the Conservative candidates, Messrs. Barber and Tomlinson. Against these gentlemen were arrayed Messrs. Woodger and Page; but the candidature of the two last-named was carried on in a sort of guerilla fashion that evinced little confidence in a successful result, and their respective chances will be found very fully illustrated in the returns given at the close of the poll.In the St. George’s Ward the battle was between Messrs. Doughty and Baker, (C), and Messrs. Palmer and Hammond (L). Here a most determined fight was made, the Liberals commencing the business of the day in a style that evidently meant winning. Soon after the first hour’s polling, Messrs. Palmer and Hammond took a commanding lead, and although the utmost zeal was evinced on the part of their opponents, they kept increasing their majority until by noon it had assumed such proportions as to place the issue of the contest beyond all question. The result was unexpected, and created quite a sensation among the Conservatives, who chagrined at the turn of affairs in the Market Ward, were little prepared for this fresh source of annoyance and discomfiture.In the Nelson Ward there was no contest, Messrs. Woolverton, (C), and Stone (L) being unopposed.The election in the Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward was provocative of the usual excitement, the Gorlestonians coming out in considerable force, and testifying their Conservative or Liberal proclivities in the liveliest manner. The candidates were Messrs. Steward and Hammond, (C), as opposed to Messrs. Beevor and Nelson. The contest was well fought throughout, and resulted in the election of the Conservative candidates.In celebration of the victory in the St. George’s Ward, the Liberals paraded a band, which did honour to the occasion by playing a selection of popular music through the principal streets.OFFICIAL DECLARATION.The official swearing-in of the newly-elected members took place on Thursday afternoon, the proceedings creating more than their wonted interest from the expectation of a “scene.” These anticipations were fully realised. Previous to the commencement of the usual routine, Mr. J. F. Neave, one of the defeated Liberal candidates in the North Ward, addressed Mr. S. Nightingale, and, in a tone of considerable vehemence, charged that gentleman and his supporters with having secured the election by unfair practices by bringing forward individuals to personate voters who were dead or at sea, or by other means equally discreditable. The scene which ensued was of the most lively character, some half-dozen Councillors speaking at once. Those in the body of the Court showed their enjoyment by encouraging shouts of “Go it Neave,” “Give it them,” an appeal, however, which was scarcely necessary, as the North Ward champion appeared in fine mettle, and continued his address, although the greater part of it was lost in the general turmoil. Referring to the result, Mr. Nightingale was understood to say that Mr. Neave would never be so near winning again, which elicited a rejoinder from the latter that he had been told he should never be elected a Guardian, but he had shown them what he could do, and if he were spared he would yet be in the Council. This declaration of future hostilities was received with great uproar, which was with difficulty quelled sufficiently to enable the business of the meeting to be proceeded with. This having been brought to a termination, after sundry interruptions, the newly-elected hastily quitted the Court, the proceedings having afforded a singular exhibition of political amenities, from a Yarmouth point of view.
“MUNICIPAL ELECTION.”
As was expected, these elections were fought out with considerable spirit, the town throughout the day presenting all the aspects of a contested general election, cabs duly placarded with the names and claims of the candidates rushing about the streets in all directionsen routeto the various polling-places or committee-rooms.
In the North Ward the Conservatives were early at work, and were enabled to put their candidates considerably ahead, Messrs. Worship and Hilton counting a formidable majority at an early stage of the contest. The friends of Messrs. Neave and Blyth were, however, far from dismayed, and worked with a degree of zeal that certainly deserved if it did not ensure success. In the course of the afternoon the Conservative majority had been greatly reduced, and it looked at one time as if Mr. Neave’s return would have been secured. The aspect of things nerved the Conservatives to renewed efforts and enabled them to keep ahead of their opponents, the result being the return of their candidates, Messrs. Worship and Hilton.
In the Market Ward the greatest excitement prevailed, popular feeling being in favour of Mr. J. Norman (L) and Mr. I. Preston. The latter, although a Conservative, came forward on independent grounds, and as opposed to the compromise that has been entered into for the return of Messrs. Norman and Combe. The last-named gentleman was brought out under the auspices of that section of the Conservative party, better known as the “clique,” which evoked the determined opposition of the “independent” portion of the party. There was another candidate in the person of Mr J. Garratt (L), but that gentleman retired at an early stage of the contest in favour of Mr. Combe. Soon after the commencement of the polling, it became evident that Mr. Norman’s election would be safe, and that the real fight would be between Messrs. Combe and Preston. The last-named had a large staff of energetic supporters, and he was soon placed in a majority which no efforts on the part of his opponents could break down. The result, therefore, in this ward was the return of Messrs. Norman and Preston, which must be regarded as a great blow to the dominant section of the Conservative party, who strained every nerve to carry their man.
The contest in the Regent Ward was of diminished interest as compared with the other parts of the town, and resulted in the return of the Conservative candidates, Messrs. Barber and Tomlinson. Against these gentlemen were arrayed Messrs. Woodger and Page; but the candidature of the two last-named was carried on in a sort of guerilla fashion that evinced little confidence in a successful result, and their respective chances will be found very fully illustrated in the returns given at the close of the poll.
In the St. George’s Ward the battle was between Messrs. Doughty and Baker, (C), and Messrs. Palmer and Hammond (L). Here a most determined fight was made, the Liberals commencing the business of the day in a style that evidently meant winning. Soon after the first hour’s polling, Messrs. Palmer and Hammond took a commanding lead, and although the utmost zeal was evinced on the part of their opponents, they kept increasing their majority until by noon it had assumed such proportions as to place the issue of the contest beyond all question. The result was unexpected, and created quite a sensation among the Conservatives, who chagrined at the turn of affairs in the Market Ward, were little prepared for this fresh source of annoyance and discomfiture.
In the Nelson Ward there was no contest, Messrs. Woolverton, (C), and Stone (L) being unopposed.
The election in the Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward was provocative of the usual excitement, the Gorlestonians coming out in considerable force, and testifying their Conservative or Liberal proclivities in the liveliest manner. The candidates were Messrs. Steward and Hammond, (C), as opposed to Messrs. Beevor and Nelson. The contest was well fought throughout, and resulted in the election of the Conservative candidates.
In celebration of the victory in the St. George’s Ward, the Liberals paraded a band, which did honour to the occasion by playing a selection of popular music through the principal streets.
OFFICIAL DECLARATION.
The official swearing-in of the newly-elected members took place on Thursday afternoon, the proceedings creating more than their wonted interest from the expectation of a “scene.” These anticipations were fully realised. Previous to the commencement of the usual routine, Mr. J. F. Neave, one of the defeated Liberal candidates in the North Ward, addressed Mr. S. Nightingale, and, in a tone of considerable vehemence, charged that gentleman and his supporters with having secured the election by unfair practices by bringing forward individuals to personate voters who were dead or at sea, or by other means equally discreditable. The scene which ensued was of the most lively character, some half-dozen Councillors speaking at once. Those in the body of the Court showed their enjoyment by encouraging shouts of “Go it Neave,” “Give it them,” an appeal, however, which was scarcely necessary, as the North Ward champion appeared in fine mettle, and continued his address, although the greater part of it was lost in the general turmoil. Referring to the result, Mr. Nightingale was understood to say that Mr. Neave would never be so near winning again, which elicited a rejoinder from the latter that he had been told he should never be elected a Guardian, but he had shown them what he could do, and if he were spared he would yet be in the Council. This declaration of future hostilities was received with great uproar, which was with difficulty quelled sufficiently to enable the business of the meeting to be proceeded with. This having been brought to a termination, after sundry interruptions, the newly-elected hastily quitted the Court, the proceedings having afforded a singular exhibition of political amenities, from a Yarmouth point of view.
The following is the official return:—
North Ward.
Mr. Hilton (C)
395
,, Worship (C)
384
„ Neave (L)
371
„ Blyth (L)
287
Market Ward.
Mr. J. A. Norman (L)
402
,, I. Preston, Junr. (C)
376
,, Combe, (C)
336
,, Garratt (L)
4
Regent Ward.
Mr. J. Tomlinson (C)
281
„ R. D. Barber (C)
261
,, Woodger (L)
86
„ R. Page (L)
7
St. George’s Ward.
Mr. F. Danby-Palmer (L)
292
,, H. Hammond (L)
291
,, Baker (C)
164
,, Doughty (C)
142
Nelson Ward.
Messrs. Woolverton (C) and Stone (L) unopposed.
Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward.
Mr. R. Steward (C)
365
,, Hammond (C)
358
,, Beevor (L)
309
,, Nelson (L)
300
As the result of this election, it was believed that Mr. E. H. L. Preston would be Mayor for the ensuing year.
Mr. F. Ferrier had been returned in the place of Mr. Stagg, deceased, for the Regent Ward.
An effort was being made to restore St. George’s Chapel.
Nov. 12th.—At the Council meeting, Mr. J. C. Smith proposed, and Mr. Bracey seconded, Mr. E. H. L. Preston, as Mayor, and this was carriednem. dis.
There had been an enormous catch of herring; Messrs. Smith’s “Ocean Wave” had taken 29 lasts, and on the Thursday it was computed that 1,409 lasts of fish had been landed at the Wharf.
Nov. 16th.—C. E. Bartram, Esq., J.P. and Councillor for the South Ward had died.
Nov. 19th.—The Volunteers had received “Snider Rifles.”
Mr. J. H. Fellows had presided at a meeting at the “New Royal Standard” to select a candidate for the South Ward, when Mr. Fredk. Palmer was brought forward, the other candidates named being Mr. I. Hill, Mr. G. Harvey, and Mr. J. H. Harrison.
Nov. 23rd.—Commissions signed by the Lord Lieutenant:—2nd N.R.V., Lieut. A. J. Palmer to be Captain, vice Youell resigned; Ensign E. H. H. Combe to be Lieut., vice Palmer promoted.
Nov. 26th.—The following had been the result of the election in the Nelson Ward:—
Mr. Fredk. Palmer (L.)
447
„ Isaac Hill (C.)
269
After the declaration of the poll a procession, headed by a band, had paraded the principal streets.
Twelve vessels had already cleared with 28,390 barrels of herring for Italian ports.
Dec. 3rd.—A petition alleging bribery at St. George’s Ward Election, had been presented to the Town Council, and supported there by Mr. J. W. Bunn (one of the Aldermen). Mr. F. Danby-Palmer repudiated the charge on behalf of Mr. Hammond and himself, and, ultimately, on the motion of Mr. Harmer, the document was ordered to be laid “under the table.”
The death of Mr. H. H. Barber (one of the Councillors for the South Ward, and a Captain in the 2nd N.R.V.) is recorded.
In the Nelson Ward Mr. H. Fenner (C.) had been returned in his place, having beaten Mr. Woodger (L.) by 85 votes.
The fishing-boats were “making up” after a very successful voyage.
It was proposed to lay down a tramway from Yarmouth to Lowestoft.
Dec. 17th.—The Mayor had presented the testimonial to Inspector Berry; it consisted of a 20 guinea watch and a purse of £145.
One fishing boat had caught 142 lasts of herring during the season.
It was estimated that £40,000 would be paid to the fishermen in wages.
Messrs. Woolverton and George had opened a Stock Sale at Acle, the former gentleman acting as auctioneer. There were a large number of entries, and fat stock had realised 10s. 6d. per stone.
Dec. 21st.—Miss Emma Pearson (daughter of the late Captain Pearson, R.N.) had written a letter from the seat of war at Orleans, where she was nursing the sick and wounded.
Dec. 24th.—Records the death of Mr. Henry Fellows, shipbuilder, aged 70.
Herring had averaged £10 per last during the season, and it was computed that the money value of the fish caught during the season was £180,000.
Dec. 28th.—Mr. Wyllys’ sledge had upset at the corner of Regent Street, and knocked over a woman, but no serious damage had been sustained.
Dec. 31st.—Mr. J. H. Want had obtained the contract for the erection of a new Post Office in Regent Street.
Jan. 4th.—Records the abandonment of what was known as the “Ordering up system,” under which complainants had been accustomed, on payment of a fee of 2s. (without summons), to have persons brought before the Magistrates by the police.
A young Danish girl had been discovered working as a sailor on board a vessel.
Jan. 10th.—One Thacker, a veteran gunner, generally known as “Old Stork” had brought down five swans at one shot on Breydon.
Jan. 14th.—The Mayor (E. H. L. Preston, Esq.), had given a ball at the Town-hall; about 180 guests were present; Mr. Sturge led the band; and Mr. Collins provided the refreshments.
A large otter, measuring 4¾ feet and weighing 30 lbs., had been shot near the North River; it had previously been pursued by a skater, who had seized it by the tail, when it turned upon him and inflicted a considerable wound on his wrist.
Jan. 15th.—The Magistrates had refused to convict in a vaccination case, which conduct was greatly exercising the Board of Guardians.
Jan. 25th.—The schooner “Starling” had foundered in the fair way of the harbour between the piers, and thus blocked the navigation.
Feb. 1st.—The first subscription ball was advertised with the following list of stewards:—The Mayor, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Henry E. Buxton, Charles Sharpe Sharpe, and William Danby-Palmer, Esqs.
Feb. 4th.—Bro. Edward Howes had been installed W.M. of Lodge “Friendship,” the members of which lodge had presented a testimonial to Bro. C. L. Chipperfield.
Mr. W. J. Foreman had presided at the meeting of the Great Yarmouth Building Society, and Mr. Frederick Palmer at the meeting of the Norfolk and Suffolk Building Society. Each institution published a favourable report of its proceedings and declared bonuses of £15 and £16 13s. 4d. respectively.
Mr. Woodger had given 20 tons of coal to the poor in the South Ward.
Feb. 8th.—Contains the following account of the death of Robert Steward, Esq.:—
“We regret to record the death of this gentleman who expired suddenly at his residence in Cambridge, on Saturday evening. Mr. Steward for a number of years occupied a very prominent position in this borough, having filled the office of Chief Magistrate on five occasions. He was until recently an active member of the Town Council, having represented the Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward for a lengthened period, during which time he exhibited a warm interest in all that related to the welfare of the borough. Mr. Steward was one of the first to associate himself with the Volunteer movement, and was ever ready with his purse to aid the cause. It was the occasion of his fifth election to the Mayoralty that his fellow-townsmen determined to present him with a testimonial in recognition of his public services, and so heartily was the appeal responded to, that a sum was soon raised sufficient for the purchase of a handsome service of plate, which was publicly presented at the Town Hall. Latterly Mr. Steward had been suffering from failing health, and had taken up his residence at Cambridge, but on all occasions when anything of public interest was under discussion he was at his accustomed post in the Town Council. Mr. Steward was a Justice of the Peace for the Borough, and also for the County of Suffolk. As a public man his loss will be much felt, for though occasionally overbearing and impetuous, his faults were overlooked in the thorough earnestness with which he applied himself to the promotion of those measures which he considered for the general good. Out of respect the flags on the Town Hall and shipping have been hoisted half-mast.”
“We regret to record the death of this gentleman who expired suddenly at his residence in Cambridge, on Saturday evening. Mr. Steward for a number of years occupied a very prominent position in this borough, having filled the office of Chief Magistrate on five occasions. He was until recently an active member of the Town Council, having represented the Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward for a lengthened period, during which time he exhibited a warm interest in all that related to the welfare of the borough. Mr. Steward was one of the first to associate himself with the Volunteer movement, and was ever ready with his purse to aid the cause. It was the occasion of his fifth election to the Mayoralty that his fellow-townsmen determined to present him with a testimonial in recognition of his public services, and so heartily was the appeal responded to, that a sum was soon raised sufficient for the purchase of a handsome service of plate, which was publicly presented at the Town Hall. Latterly Mr. Steward had been suffering from failing health, and had taken up his residence at Cambridge, but on all occasions when anything of public interest was under discussion he was at his accustomed post in the Town Council. Mr. Steward was a Justice of the Peace for the Borough, and also for the County of Suffolk. As a public man his loss will be much felt, for though occasionally overbearing and impetuous, his faults were overlooked in the thorough earnestness with which he applied himself to the promotion of those measures which he considered for the general good. Out of respect the flags on the Town Hall and shipping have been hoisted half-mast.”
A quantity of human remains had been discovered in a vault in Row 112.
Feb. 11th.—A fine hare had been captured in the Market Place, after an exciting chase.
Feb. 15th.—Mr. E. H. H. Combe and Mr. Nelson had been nominated to fill the vacancy, created by Mr. Steward’s death, in the Southtown Ward.
J. C. Smith, Esq., had presided at the anniversary of the “Loyal Prince of Wales Lodge,” M.U.O.F., at the Market Tavern, when about sixty brethren were present.
Feb. 25th.—There were 900 boats then engaged in the fishing, of the gross tonnage of 14,788 tons, manned by 4051 men and 531 boys.
Mr. E. H. H. Combe had been returned as a member of the Council for the Southtown Ward.
March 8th.—Police-constable Shreeve had met with a fatal accident by falling from the fire escape.
The pauper lunatics, 18 in number, had been removed from London to the Ipswich Asylum.
An old house in Row 132 had fallen down.
March 11th.—The late R. Steward, Esq., had bequeathed a legacy of £19 19s. to each of the following charities:—The Great Yarmouth Hospital, the Priory, St. Peter’s, and Gorleston National Schools, the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, the Norwich Blind Institution, the National School Society, the Boys’ Hospital School (Norwich), the C. M. Society, and the S. P. G. Society.
March 22nd.—A fine pike, weighing upwards of 25lbs., had been shot in one of the neighbouring Broads.
April 18th.—At the Guardians’ Election the new and largely augmented constituency was polled for the first time. There was a regular party fight, Mr. John Cooper acting as Conservative agent, and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer for the Liberals, the following being the result:—
North Ward.
J. F. Neave (L)
844
H. Blyth (L)
662
S. Nightingale (C)
662
J. T. Buston (C)
567
J. Rant (L)
542
S. Barge (C)
478
Market Ward.
J. A. Norman (L)
621
Wm. Laws (C)
476
J. G. Overend (L)
427
R. Dumbleton (C)
418
R. B. Ellis (C)
397
Regent Ward.
R. D. Barber (C)
470
W. Worship (C)
426
J. H. Norman (L)
375
C. Diver (C)
367
J. Clowes (Grocer) (L)
289
R. Bryant (L)
198
St. George’s Ward.
J. W. de Caux (L)
557
J. Scott (L)
478
J. Rivett (L)
371
W. J. Foreman (C)
298
W. Harrison (C)
248
D. Gooch (C)
244
T. Todd (C)
115
Nelson Ward.
F. Palmer (L)
966
C. Woolverton (C)
934
J. Bracey (C)
766
J. Clowes (Solicitor) (L)
678
W. T. Fisher (L)
534
T. C. Foreman (N)
376
G. Harvey (C)
267
J. H. Harrison (N)
8
Previous to the declaration of the numbers by the returning officer,Mr. John Cooper, on behalf of the Conservative candidates, who had met the previous night, announced his intention not to proceed with the scrutiny before the returning officer, who had no authority to call witnesses, but stated that the whole conduct of the election would be laid before the Poor Law Board with a view to a thorough enquiry being instituted. The election had been conducted in a fraudulent manner. Mr. Cooper, in support of his assertion, instanced the case of Hurr, oneof the collectors, who, he alleged, had only returned 113 papers out of 300. Names had also been put on various papers without authority, while the collector (Hurr) had taken his papers to the house of one of the candidates, where they were examined and sorted. Another collector in the Liberal interest, named Norman, had been convicted and sentenced to twelve months’ imprisonment for robbery. Mr. Cooper went on to say that in the Market Ward (Hurr’s district) upwards of twenty papers had never been called for, and he understood that there were upwards of 50 which had been signed by one person. The election had been conducted in such an unfair and scandalous manner, that the Conservatives had resolved upon demanding a Poor Law enquiry.Mr. Livingston said it would be for Mr. Cooper and his friends to make good the allegations just made. He hoped if there had been any irregularity it would be fully enquired into.Mr. J. A. Norman (who headed the poll for the Market Ward) supposed that Mr. Cooper had suspected the Liberals had been adopting the former tactics of their opponents, and had taken a leaf out of their book. (Laughter.)Mr. Overend (another successful candidate for the Market Ward) denied that the papers had been sorted in the shop as alleged, and said the collector called for information.Mr. Cufaude (the Returning-officer) said the collector ought not to have done this, as it was most irregular and contrary to the instructions given to the collectors. He then gave the return as above, and the proceedings closed.The result has caused considerable heart-burning among the Conservatives, who have so long held the sway in all matters pertaining to local administration, and they cannot be expected to view with equanimity the storming of one of their chief strongholds by the enemy.
Previous to the declaration of the numbers by the returning officer,
Mr. John Cooper, on behalf of the Conservative candidates, who had met the previous night, announced his intention not to proceed with the scrutiny before the returning officer, who had no authority to call witnesses, but stated that the whole conduct of the election would be laid before the Poor Law Board with a view to a thorough enquiry being instituted. The election had been conducted in a fraudulent manner. Mr. Cooper, in support of his assertion, instanced the case of Hurr, oneof the collectors, who, he alleged, had only returned 113 papers out of 300. Names had also been put on various papers without authority, while the collector (Hurr) had taken his papers to the house of one of the candidates, where they were examined and sorted. Another collector in the Liberal interest, named Norman, had been convicted and sentenced to twelve months’ imprisonment for robbery. Mr. Cooper went on to say that in the Market Ward (Hurr’s district) upwards of twenty papers had never been called for, and he understood that there were upwards of 50 which had been signed by one person. The election had been conducted in such an unfair and scandalous manner, that the Conservatives had resolved upon demanding a Poor Law enquiry.
Mr. Livingston said it would be for Mr. Cooper and his friends to make good the allegations just made. He hoped if there had been any irregularity it would be fully enquired into.
Mr. J. A. Norman (who headed the poll for the Market Ward) supposed that Mr. Cooper had suspected the Liberals had been adopting the former tactics of their opponents, and had taken a leaf out of their book. (Laughter.)
Mr. Overend (another successful candidate for the Market Ward) denied that the papers had been sorted in the shop as alleged, and said the collector called for information.
Mr. Cufaude (the Returning-officer) said the collector ought not to have done this, as it was most irregular and contrary to the instructions given to the collectors. He then gave the return as above, and the proceedings closed.
The result has caused considerable heart-burning among the Conservatives, who have so long held the sway in all matters pertaining to local administration, and they cannot be expected to view with equanimity the storming of one of their chief strongholds by the enemy.
April 22nd.—Mr. Bowgin, who had died at the age of 90, had left a considerable sum of money to local charities.
April 26th.—At the first meeting of the recently elected Board of Guardians, Mr. Frederick Palmer and Mr. John A. Norman were respectively elected chairman and vice-chairman, in the place of Mr. C. Woolverton and Mr. W. Laws.
The smack “Sevastopol” (belonging to Mr. H. Fenner) had been destroyed by fire on the fishing grounds.
Judge Worlledge had been appointed Chancellor of the Diocese in the place of Mr. Howes, deceased.
May 6th.—TheFree Lance, a notorious local newspaper, had been proceeded against for libelling Mr. King, of Gorleston.
May 10th.—Records the death of Richard Hammond, Esq., as follows:—“It is with deep regret that we announce the death of this much respected gentleman, who expired at his residence, Regent Road, on Saturday morning last, after a rather lengthened illness. Mr. Hammond during his long career has occupied so prominent a position, and has ranked so high in the opinion of all classes of his fellow-townsmen, that his death, although regarded as imminent, created much sensation. The deceased, who was born in 1792, and was consequently at the time of his decease in his 79th year, was one of the oldest Magistrates of the borough, having been called to the Bench in 1841. During the long period that Mr. Hammond was associated with the administration of justice he was remarkable for his uprightness and thorough independence of character. Wealthy, but yet conspicuous for his unostentatious mode of life, he was at all times accessible to those of his poorer fellow townsmen, many of whom were wont to seek his counsel, and advice. In the exercise of his magisterial functions, he was ever disposed to temper justice with mercy, and in his death there must be many who must feel that they have lost a true and valued friend. The deceased for many years occupied a leading position as among the most prominent, forward, yet consistent members of the Liberal party, and although he had of late ceased to take any active part in political controversies, he was always deeply interested in everything that pertained to the advancement of the cause which he had so greatly at heart. Mr. Hammond, who was largely connected at one time with the fisheries, had also a considerable stake in the shipping of the port, and accumulated a large property, the bulk of which will, doubtless, have been bequeathed to his three nieces, as he was unmarried. Out of respect to the deceased, the flags on the Town Hall, public buildings, and shipping have been hoisted half-mast, while many private families have shown similar marks of regard to the memory of the deceased.”
The Guardians had decided to allow Nonconformist Ministers to visit at the Workhouse.
May 17th.—One boat had landed 1,000 mackerel, and that fish was selling at from 20s. to 25s. per hundred.
May 20th.—The late Mr. Hammond had left the following charitable legacies:—Hospital, £50; Sailors’ Home, £19 19s.; Priory schools, £50;and St. John’s, St. Andrew’s, St. Peter’s and Primitive Methodist schools, £19 19s. each.
The cost of taking the census had amounted to £110 15s.
June 3rd.—Records the death of David A. Gourlay, Esq., as follows:—“We regret to record the death of this gentleman, who expired at his residence on Wednesday, at the advanced age of 89 years. During his long connection with the town, Mr. Gourlay contrived to amass considerable wealth, having been largely connected with the shipping interest of the port. The deceased was a much respected member of the Liberal party in the borough, and in 1849 filled the office of Mayor. He was also a Magistrate, having been placed on the roll of Justices in 1858, and for many years represented the Market Ward in the Town Council, which position he only resigned last year. Mr. Gourlay was of a singularly quiet habit, devoting his entire time to business pursuits, which he continued until advancing years and infirmities compelled retirement. The deceased was deeply interested in the educational movements of the town, and a few years since presented the magnificent donation of £1,000 towards the Wesleyan Schools. As a mark of respect to his memory the flags on the Town Hall and shipping have been hoisted half mast. The number of borough magistrates who have died since 1863 has now reached 15.”
June 10th.—There had been a stormy discussion in the Council with regard to the proposal to appoint Messrs. Salmon Palmer, Garson Blake, and John W. de Caux, Justices for the Borough, when Mr. James W. Bunn moved, and Mr. C. Woolverton seconded a resolution to the effect that such appointments “would be objectionable”; and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer moved, and Mr. James Scott seconded an amendment approving such appointments, which was lost by 25 to 7 votes, those voting in the minority being Messrs. F. Danby-Palmer, J. Scott, Frederick Palmer, J. W. de Caux, T. W. Attwood, H. Hammond, and J. A. Norman.
Mr. I. Preston’s “Otter” had made a passage from Yarmouth to Harwich, a distance of 52 miles in four and a half hours.
June 14th.—Mr. Stafford had resigned the surgeonship for the North District, his salary being £100; he stated that he had 2,093 paupers on his books.
June 17th.—One hundred and twenty-seven men of the R.H.A. were encamped on the North Denes, the officers being Captains Fox-Strangeways and Scott; Lieutenants Rothe, Hardinge-Brown, and P. F. Blackwood; Surgeon-Major Lewer, and Vet.-Surgeon Walker.
Messrs. J. Tolver Waters, Frank Burton, and F. W. Dendy had passed the Legal examination.
June 21st.—Mr. A. D. Stone had been elected a Haven Commissioner in the place of Mr. Hammond, deceased, without opposition, owing to Mr. de Caux’s nomination paper having been left at the wrong office.
June 24th.—The “Oleander,” a barque of 440 tons had been launched from Messrs. Fellows and Son’s yard.
July 12th.—At the Water Frolic the “Halcyon” won the first match, and the “Vivid” the second match; Mr. I. Preston, junr., acted as Secretary.
There had been a destructive fire at Mr. Bland’s premises on the Queen’s Road.
July 26th.—There had been a Volunteer Encampment on the North Denes with a brigade field day, when the troops were under the command of Major-General Murray.
The Yarmouth Corps had entertained the Officers of the Norfolk and Suffolk Battalions, the Mayor, Major-General Murray, Brigade Major Ogilvie, Captain Alderson, N.A.M., and several other guests at the Royal Hotel.
There had been a proposal made to abolish the Fair.
The newly-appointed Magistrates, Messrs. Palmer, Blake, and de Caux had qualified.
Aug. 19th.—The Council had voted an address of congratulation to Sir James Paget upon his being created a Baronet.
The Prince of Wales had consented to accept the Hon. Colonelcy of the Norfolk Artillery Militia, vacant through the death of Lord Hastings.
Aug. 26th.—Tomlinson’s Brewery and the houses attached to it had been sold in lots by public auction.
Sept. 2nd.—St. George’s Denes had been for the first time enclosed for a “Floral Fete,” when Mr. James H. Harrison “with rather a rough element at the back” appeared as a champion of public rights.
Sept. 6th.—The following Rifle Volunteer Officers had received certificates of proficiency under the new regulations:—Captains Holt, Matthews, and Palmer, and Lieutenants Buxton, Diver, Palmer and Wilson.
Sept. 27th.—M. Desfongerais (the re-called French Consul) had been presented with a testimonial before leaving Yarmouth.
Sept. 30th.—Heavy gales had prevailed from the E. and S.E.
“Low prices and heavy deliveries” continued to characterise the fishing.
Mr. W. B. Neslin, an eccentric character, who had accumulated hundreds, if not thousands of notes of various epitaphs, had died at the age of 70 years.
Oct. 18th.—E. P. Youell, Esq., had presided at a meeting called to consider the restoration of Gorleston Church.
Oct. 21st.—The New Corn Hall in Howard Street had been opened with a public dinner, when about 200 gentlemen attended, the chair being taken by H. S. Grimmer, Esq., and the vice-chairs by Messrs. G. M. Beck, E. H. H. Combe, E. Press, and J. W. Bunn.
Nov. 4th.—Five of the Wards had been contested, with the following result:—
North Ward.
Neave (L)
565
Bly(C)
541
Buston (C)
464
Blyth (L)
432
Market Ward.
Fyson (C)
394
Baker (C)
374
Garratt (L)
349
Clowes (L)
321
Regent Ward.
Burton (C)
239
Ferrier (C)
212
Goodwin (L)
137
Livingston (L)
117
St. George’s Ward.
Todd (I)
385
Scott (L)
324
Smith (C)
150
Nelson Ward.
Woodger (L)
742
Fenner (C)
467
Palmer (L)
407
St. Andrew’s Ward.
Dendy (L) and Baumgartner (L), unopposed.
Mr. Edward S. Preston, who had been in the field, having retired at the eleventh hour.
The general result was a gain of one to the Liberal party.
Nov. 11th.—Mr. S Nightingale had proposed, and Mr. J. Scott seconded, the re-election of the Mayor (Mr. E. H. L. Preston) and he was re-elected accordingly.
The following Aldermen had been re-appointed:—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, and Messrs. R. Purdy, G. S. Shingles, E. P. Youell, R. S. Watling, and W. Danby-Palmer.
Rear-Admiral Thomas L. Gooch had been promoted to be a retired Vice-Admiral.
The Rifle Volunteers shed on the North Denes had been burnt with the stores contained in it, “and no clue yet obtained to the perpetrator of this wanton piece of mischief.”
Nov. 18th.—Mr. Woodger had entertained 40 of his friends at a dinner given by him at St. George’s Tavern, King Street.
The Liberals were organising Working Men’s Associations in the several Wards.
Nov. 22nd.—The “Reliance,” steamtug, had struck a piece of wreck near the Cross Sand, and become a total wreck. She was valued at £2,500.
Nov. 29th.—Three companies of the 33rd Regiment had arrived at the Southtown Barracks.
Captain Harvey was making experiments with his sea torpedoes in the Roads, accompanied by Baron de Grancy and M. Vavasseur.
Dec. 6th.—There had been disastrous gales, causing great destruction of shipping property and loss of life.
Dec. 16th.—A meeting had been held at Gorleston with a view to the restoration of the Church; the Mayor presided, and Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., the Revs. H. Nevill, T. Allnutt (Vicar), J. Walker, S. N. Vowler, and Messrs. E. P. Youell, H. E. Buxton, C. J. Palmer, E. H. H. Combe, W. Teasdel, G. B. Palmer, Stanier, Wilton, Holt, Baumgartner, Bottle, S. Bately, Bellamy, Ling, S. Dowson, W. S. Sandford, Dr. Bately, Capt. Matthews, Capt. Aldrich, &c., were present.
Dee. 30th.—Reference is made to the “New Law of Merchant Shipping” (Plimsoll’s Act.)
The Prince of Wales being restored to health, it was expected that he would visit Yarmouth with the N.A.M., of which Regiment he was Hon. Colonel, during their training in the Spring.
Mrs. Walpole, of Southtown, had bequeathed legacies of £50 to the Hospital and £19 19s. to the Sailors’ Home.
It was estimated that the 600 boats hailing from Yarmouth paid “something like £4000 for towage to the Tug Companies.”
Mr. J. F. Neave had erected a new Primitive Methodist Chapel at Bradwell.
Jan. 6th.—Mr. J. T. Clarke had been appointed an Admiralty Commissioner.
Jan. 20th.—The Town Council had voted congratulatory addresses to the Queen, and the Prince and Princess of Wales, upon the occasion of the recovery of the Prince from his serious illness.
There had been a heavy gale from the S.S.W.
Jan. 27th.—It was stated that within 12 years five penny newspapers had been started in Yarmouth, all of which had ceased to exist.
Jan. 31st.—Mr. John L. Cufaude, Clerk of the Peace, Clerk to the Guardians, and Superintendent Registrar had died at the age of 61 years.
Feb. 3rd.—Messrs. Chamberlin, I. Preston, junr., H. R. Harmer and F. W Ferrier were candidates for the first and Messrs. F. Danby-Palmer and F. S. Costerton for the two latter of these appointments.
Feb. 7th.—Mr. F. Danby-Palmer had been elected Superintendent Registrar by “a large majority,” the other candidates being Messrs. S. C. Burton and H. Cowl.
Bro. James Carter had been installed W.M. of Lodge “Friendship.”
A new route (the loop line) was being constructed between Yarmouth and Lowestoft at a cost of £15,000.
Feb. 14th.—Mr. F. Danby-Palmer had been unanimously elected Clerk to the Board of Guardians.
Feb. 17th.—At the Council meeting Mr. W. Laws proposed, and Mr. T. M. Baker seconded, Mr. I. Preston, junr.’s appointment as Clerk of the Peace, and Mr. J. W. Foreman proposed, and Mr. J. Bracey seconded, Mr. H. R. Harmer for that office.
The voting was—For Mr. Preston: The Mayor and Messrs. J. T. Bracey, Laws, Mabson, Teasdel, Purdy, Nightingale, Bly, Barnby, Norman, Preston (Isaac junr.), Baker, Wright, George, Woolverton, Burton, Ferrier, Todd, Veale, Fenner, Gooda, and W. Hammond (22),
And for Mr. Harmer: Messrs. Bunn, Harmer, Youell, William Danby-Palmer, Worship, Hilton, Neave, Nuthall, Fyson, Barber,Tomlinson, Foreman, do Caux, F. Danby-Palmer, Scott, J. Bracey, Stone, Woodger, Combe and Baumgartner (20).
Mr. Attwood declined to vote. After the voting the following “scene” took place between the Mayor and Mr. Harmer:—
Mr. Harmer said he had come forward as a candidate, considering his long connection with the party entitled him to their support. He could not let that opportunity pass without expressing his thanks to those gentleman who had accorded him their votes. He could but think if the Mayor had fought a ‘manly and open game’—(cries of ‘no, no,’ and uproar)—and postponed his canvassing from the Saturday to the Monday, he should have been in a very different position there that day. (Renewed cheers and uproar.) He believed he should have had most of those promises which the Mayor had obtained on the Sunday. (Cries of ‘no, no,’ and general uproar.) He felt certain that a great many of his friends in the Council whom he had known many years, and who had been induced to vote against him, were sorry for it, and had only been led to do so by the promise given the Mayor on Sunday. (Cries and groans and general tumult in the gallery.) He met an old friend the other day, and on asking him for his vote, he replied, ‘I am very sorry I cannot give it you, as I promised the Mayor on Sunday—(cheers and laughter)—but you have my sympathy, and I hope you may win.’ He (Mr. Harmer) could not help replying, ‘Hang your sympathy; give me your vote.’The Mayor said he could not let Mr. Harmer’s remarks upon himself pass without comment. Coming home quietly from church on the Sunday morning referred to following the mace-bearers, Mr. Harmer came up to him and canvassed him for the Clerkship of the Peace, Mr. Cufaude not being then dead. (Hear, hear, and uproar.) He told Mr. Harmer that Mr. Cufaude was not dead and (he might as well tell them all that passed), said he hoped to God he might live till after March, so that they (the Conservatives) might have the opportunity of fighting the Guardians. (Cheers and counter cheers.) In walking down to the Station-house he said to Mr. Harmer, if that should be the case, and they should get a majority at the Board of Guardians, Mr. Harmer could go in for the Clerk of the Guardians, and he (the Mayor) for the Clerk of the Peace,—(loud laughter)—and that they could work together. Mr. Harmer replied by saying that he should go in for both appointments—(cheers and laughter)—and he (the Mayor) replied that he could not do so, but if he (the Mayor) won one, he would support Mr. Harmerin the other, and if Mr. Harmer was successful in one, he could give him his help in trying to obtain the other appointment for his son. (Hear, hear.) In the afternoon of that day Mr. Cufaude died, and as he knew Mr. Harmer was canvassing, did they think he was such a fool as to let him outstep him. (Cheers and uproar.)Mr. Harmer rose to reply, but the confusion became so great owing to the shouting and recrimination, backed up by the adherents of the respective parties in the gallery, that scarcely anything could be heard amid the din of words. During a temporary lull in the storm,Mr. Harmer, who was still speaking excitedly, was understood to say that he did not go between the bark and the tree, but that he wished to tell the whole truth about the conversation between him and the Mayor. He asked the Mayor how Mr. Cufaude was, and he replied that he was very bad indeed, and not expected to live. (At this juncture of Mr. Harmer’s reply several of the Councillors vacated their seats, and left the room, and the disorder which had calmed down a little again broke out. Mr. Harmer, thus interrupted, stopped in his speech, but in response to cries of ‘go on, go on,’ from the public, he turned himself to the gallery, and addressing the occupants of that place, continued his remarks.) He said he observed to the Mayor—‘In case anything happens, what do you intend to do?’ The Mayor replied ‘If my son comes forward I must support him,’ to which he (Mr. Harmer) replied ‘very naturally, too.’ He then told the Mayor that he should be a candidate for the Clerkship of the Peace, and as they walked down Regent-street the Mayor remarked to him, ‘If we can only keep the poor fellow alive till after the next election of Guardians, then we must all put our hands into our pockets and turn them (the Liberals) out.’ (Cries of ‘Shame,’ ‘Bribery,’ and general uproar.) The Mayor then said ‘I will propose that you shall be Clerk of the Peace and Isaac, Clerk of the Guardians.’ (Cheers and laughter.) His answer to that generous proposition was, ‘I shall not stand that; I shall expect the better berth of the two.’ (Renewed laughter, and cries of ‘Go in Harmer.’) The Mayor said ‘Well, after all, perhaps Isaac would rather have the Clerkship of the Peace, as there is not much to do, and as he is going to be married, and will be very well off, he won’t want it.’ (Loud laughter.)Here the confusion became so great that nothing could be heard, and as by this time the majority of the Councillors had dispersed, the proceedings closed amid wild uproar.
Mr. Harmer said he had come forward as a candidate, considering his long connection with the party entitled him to their support. He could not let that opportunity pass without expressing his thanks to those gentleman who had accorded him their votes. He could but think if the Mayor had fought a ‘manly and open game’—(cries of ‘no, no,’ and uproar)—and postponed his canvassing from the Saturday to the Monday, he should have been in a very different position there that day. (Renewed cheers and uproar.) He believed he should have had most of those promises which the Mayor had obtained on the Sunday. (Cries of ‘no, no,’ and general uproar.) He felt certain that a great many of his friends in the Council whom he had known many years, and who had been induced to vote against him, were sorry for it, and had only been led to do so by the promise given the Mayor on Sunday. (Cries and groans and general tumult in the gallery.) He met an old friend the other day, and on asking him for his vote, he replied, ‘I am very sorry I cannot give it you, as I promised the Mayor on Sunday—(cheers and laughter)—but you have my sympathy, and I hope you may win.’ He (Mr. Harmer) could not help replying, ‘Hang your sympathy; give me your vote.’
The Mayor said he could not let Mr. Harmer’s remarks upon himself pass without comment. Coming home quietly from church on the Sunday morning referred to following the mace-bearers, Mr. Harmer came up to him and canvassed him for the Clerkship of the Peace, Mr. Cufaude not being then dead. (Hear, hear, and uproar.) He told Mr. Harmer that Mr. Cufaude was not dead and (he might as well tell them all that passed), said he hoped to God he might live till after March, so that they (the Conservatives) might have the opportunity of fighting the Guardians. (Cheers and counter cheers.) In walking down to the Station-house he said to Mr. Harmer, if that should be the case, and they should get a majority at the Board of Guardians, Mr. Harmer could go in for the Clerk of the Guardians, and he (the Mayor) for the Clerk of the Peace,—(loud laughter)—and that they could work together. Mr. Harmer replied by saying that he should go in for both appointments—(cheers and laughter)—and he (the Mayor) replied that he could not do so, but if he (the Mayor) won one, he would support Mr. Harmerin the other, and if Mr. Harmer was successful in one, he could give him his help in trying to obtain the other appointment for his son. (Hear, hear.) In the afternoon of that day Mr. Cufaude died, and as he knew Mr. Harmer was canvassing, did they think he was such a fool as to let him outstep him. (Cheers and uproar.)
Mr. Harmer rose to reply, but the confusion became so great owing to the shouting and recrimination, backed up by the adherents of the respective parties in the gallery, that scarcely anything could be heard amid the din of words. During a temporary lull in the storm,
Mr. Harmer, who was still speaking excitedly, was understood to say that he did not go between the bark and the tree, but that he wished to tell the whole truth about the conversation between him and the Mayor. He asked the Mayor how Mr. Cufaude was, and he replied that he was very bad indeed, and not expected to live. (At this juncture of Mr. Harmer’s reply several of the Councillors vacated their seats, and left the room, and the disorder which had calmed down a little again broke out. Mr. Harmer, thus interrupted, stopped in his speech, but in response to cries of ‘go on, go on,’ from the public, he turned himself to the gallery, and addressing the occupants of that place, continued his remarks.) He said he observed to the Mayor—‘In case anything happens, what do you intend to do?’ The Mayor replied ‘If my son comes forward I must support him,’ to which he (Mr. Harmer) replied ‘very naturally, too.’ He then told the Mayor that he should be a candidate for the Clerkship of the Peace, and as they walked down Regent-street the Mayor remarked to him, ‘If we can only keep the poor fellow alive till after the next election of Guardians, then we must all put our hands into our pockets and turn them (the Liberals) out.’ (Cries of ‘Shame,’ ‘Bribery,’ and general uproar.) The Mayor then said ‘I will propose that you shall be Clerk of the Peace and Isaac, Clerk of the Guardians.’ (Cheers and laughter.) His answer to that generous proposition was, ‘I shall not stand that; I shall expect the better berth of the two.’ (Renewed laughter, and cries of ‘Go in Harmer.’) The Mayor said ‘Well, after all, perhaps Isaac would rather have the Clerkship of the Peace, as there is not much to do, and as he is going to be married, and will be very well off, he won’t want it.’ (Loud laughter.)
Here the confusion became so great that nothing could be heard, and as by this time the majority of the Councillors had dispersed, the proceedings closed amid wild uproar.
Feb. 24th.—Mr. Henry E. Buxton had been elected Commodore and Mr. I. Preston, jun., Vice-Commodore of the Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club. Mr. T. M. Read was building a new yacht at Beccles.
Feb. 28th.—Mr. I. Preston, jun., the newly-elected Clerk of the Peace, had entertained the Recorder and Bar at the Sessions.
In the Market Ward, Mr. R. Dumbleton and Mr. J. Garratt had been candidates for the seat vacated by Mr. Preston, when the former gentleman was elected by a majority of 191.
April 6th.—Mr. C. S. D. Steward and Captain Gilbertson had been re-appointed Churchwardens, and Messrs. Ellis, Skoulding, Lay and Pestell, Overseers.
April 3rd.—Nathaniel Palmer, Esq., Recorder, had died at Coltishall, aged 79; it was stated that “The deceased was at one period of his career a prominent member of the Whig party, and was generally known as ‘Orator Palmer.’ He acted with the other members of the Palmer family and their cousins—the Stewards and Hurrys—and was with them instrumental in opening the borough of Great Yarmouth in 1818.”
The following officers were then with the E.N.M. at its annual training:—Colonel Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., Lieutenant-Colonel Glover, Major Matthew, Captains Dods, Ensor, Applewaite, Ambrose, and McEnry, and Lieutenants Haly, Howes, Long, Lacon, Haggard, Fryer, Barber and Napier. Captain Lacon being absent.
April 13th.—The following had been the result of the Guardians’ Election.—
North Ward.
Stafford (C.)
1,163
Neave (L.)
861
Skoulding (C.)
758
Buston(C)
664
Blyth (L.)
562
Rant (L.)
365
Market Ward.
Norman (L.)
679
Dumbleton (C.)
675
Laws (C.)
599
Overend (L.)
524
Ellis (C.)
515
Brand (L.)
472
Regent Ward.
Barber (C.)
540
Norman (L.)
486
Diver (C.)
428
Preston (C.)
426
Bryant (L.)
337
Rant (L.)
299
St. George’s Ward.
de Caux (L.)
613
Scott (L.)
522
Rivett (L.)
400
Foreman (C.)
266
Bunn (C.)
250
Todd (I.)
214
Gooch (C.)
204
Nelson Ward.
Palmer (L.)
1,166
Woodger (L.)
1,090
Clowes (L.)
921
Fisher (L.)
770
Woolverton (C) and Bracey (C) (numbers not given.)
The result was that 10 Liberals to 4 Tories had been elected.
The Town Council had recommended Mr. Mills for the office of Recorder, he having acted for several years as the late Mr. Palmer’s deputy in that office.
April 24th.—The first week in June had been fixed for the Prince of Wales’ visit to the town.
Mr. Frederick Palmer had been re-appointed chairman, and Messrs. J. A. Norman and J. F. Neave, vice-chairmen of the Board of Guardians.
Mr. Simms Reeve had been appointed Recorder in the place of Mr. Palmer deceased; it was stated that he was called to the Bar in 1850 and was a member of the Norfolk Circuit.
May 8th.—Funds were being raised for the purpose of decorating the town on the occasion of the Prince of Wales’ visit.
May 11th.—The Town Council had formed itself into a committee to consider the public steps to be taken with regard to that event.
May 25th.—Simms Reeve, Esq., had been appointed Judge of the Borough Court of Record.
May 29th.—Mr. de Caux had met with an accident through falling from a cart on the Drive.
June 1st.—James Scott, Esq., J.P., and one of the Councillors for the St. George’s Ward, had died.
June 8th.—Records the first visit of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales to the town, when he lodged at Mr. Cuddon’s house (Shaddingfield Lodge). The town was very handsomely decorated, and His Royal Highness was received at the Southtown Railway Station by the Reception Committee which consisted of Lord Sondes, the Mayor, the Recorder, the Town Clerk, and Messrs. William Mabson, W. T. Attwood, R. D. Barber, F. Dendy, H. R. Harmer, Frederick Ferrier, E. H. H. Combe, F. Danby-Palmer, E. P. Youell, S. Nightingale, R. S. Watling, and Bessey. After the Recorder had presented the Corporate address, His Royal Highness and the Committee proceeded to the Town Hall, where 200 guests were entertained. Subsequently His Royal Highness proceeded to the Grammar School and opened the newly-erected hall there. In the evening the town was illuminated.
June 15th.—Mr. S. K. Smith had been elected a Councillor for St. George’s Ward in the place of Mr. J. Scott deceased.
June 19th.—“Notes and Queries” contained a notice of Palmer’s “Perlustration of Great Yarmouth,” 400 pages of which had then been issued from the press.
A man named Howes had been killed through the bursting of a rocket at the Coastguard Station during the Prince’s visit.
June 22nd records the funeral of the late Mr. Edward Fyson, a member of the Town Council and Captain in the Rifle Volunteers.
The Rev. J. J. Raven had had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of Cambridge.
June 26th.—Mr. Simms Reeve had sat as Recorder for the first time at the Quarter Sessions.
The Town was filling rapidly with visitors.
June 29th.—The polling in the Market Ward had resulted as follows:—
Mr. John Garratt (L)
418
Mr. Tyrrell (C)
168
Majority
250
The marriage of Miss Watling (only daughter of Robert S. Watling, Esq.) and Mr. Samuel Nightingale (nephew of Samuel Nightingale, Esq.) had been celebrated “amid great rejoicing.”
July 6th.—The late Mr. E. Fyson had left legacies of £250 each to the Sailors’ Home and the Hospital.
The new organ at St. Mary’s, Southtown, was estimated to cost £250.
Mural paintings had been discovered in Gorleston Church.
July 13th.—A ghost was reported to be frequenting the Churchyard; upwards of 1,000 persons attended at one time to see it.
July 20th.—It was stated that in the year 1871, 19,781 lasts of fish, weighing 39,562 tons, had been conveyed by rail from Yarmouth.
Coal had advanced to 32s. per ton.
Mr. Palmer had returned from his cruise along the Dutch coast in the yacht “Oasis.”
July 31st.—The men at Lacon’s Brewery had struck for and obtained an advance of 3s. a week in their wages.
Aug. 10th.—The observance of the Bank Holiday Act had resulted in an “enormous influx” of excursionists.
Aug. 17th.—Messrs. Fellows, Dendy, and Spelman had been appointed Borough Justices.
The following had been the result of the polling for a Guardian to supply the place of the late Mr. Scott in St. George’s Ward:—
Mr. T. Green (L)
401
Mr. S. K. Smith (C)
281
Mr. T. C. Foreman (N)
126
Aug. 21st.—The Mayor (E. H. L. Preston, Esq.,) had died in the 66th year of his age.
Aug. 31st.—Mr. C. Woolverton had, on the motion of Mr. Worship, seconded by Mr. Bunn, been elected Mayor for the residue of the year of office in the place of the late Mr. Preston deceased.
Aug. 31st.—The Channel Fleet—consisting of the “Achilles,” flagship of Rear-Admiral Randolph, C.B., (Captain Hamilton), 6,121 tons, 1,250 horse power, 26 guns; “Hector,” (Captain Cochran), 4,019 tons, 800 horse power, 18 guns; “Penelope,” (Captain Wake), 3,096 tons, 600 horse power, 11 guns; “Audacious,” (Captain Hope), 3,774 tons, 800 horse power, 14 guns; “Vanguard,” (Captain Spain), 3,774 tons, 800 horse power, 14 guns; “Black Prince,” (Captain Lacey), 6,109 tons, 1,125 horse power, 28 guns; “Resistance” (Captain Montgomery), 3,710 tons, 600 horse power, 16 guns; “Favorite,” (Captain Ross), 2,094 tons, 400 horse power, 10 guns—had arrived in the Roads. The Artillery Volunteers fired a salute of 13 guns from the South Battery inhonour of the Fleet, and the Mayor, accompanied by Messrs. J. E. Barnby, W. Mabson, H. Teasdel, T. W. Attwood, C. Diver, R. Dumbleton, T. Todd, Major Orde, F. Danby-Palmer, F. Ferrier, Admiral Smyth, C. E. Nuthall, J. Tomlinson, J. Bracey, W. Laws, H. Hammond, Geo. Watson, and E. H. H. Combe, had visited the flagship.
Sept. 4th.—Records the departure of the Fleet.
Sept. 11th.—The first Election under the Ballot Act had been held. This took place in the North Ward, upon the decease of the Mayor, and resulted in the return of the Conservative candidate, the numbers being for
Mr. Skoulding (C.)
434
Mr. H. Blyth (L.).
190
Thus, upon a register of some 1,300 voters, only 629 persons polled.
Sept. 14th.—Mr. Bunn had been elected a Haven Commissioner by the Council in the place of the late Mr. Preston.
Gas had been increased from 4s. to 5s. per 1000 feet “owing to the increased cost of coal and labour.”
Oct. 5th.—Mr. Leach’s oil and lamp shop and warehouse in the Market Place had been destroyed by fire. Mr. Leach’s stock alone thus burnt was valued at £1,000; the house belonging to Mrs. Ellis; both these items were, however, covered by insurance.
Oct. 12th.—The fish merchants were urging their grievances against the Railway Company.
Oct. 16th.—The first rail of the tramway on the Southtown Road had been laid and fixed by Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P.
In the evening a dinner had been given at the Town Hall in connection with the ceremony. Jas. Goodson, Esq., presided, and there were also present—the Mayor, the Recorder, the Mayor of Beccles, Captain Penrice, C.B., Mr. Garnham and Mr. Cotching (Directors of the Tramway Company) and Messrs. E. P. Youell, E. H. H. Combe, W. H. Chambers, R. H. Harmer, H. B. Rathbone, Browne, F. Danby-Palmer, J. Hudspith, Jewson, Fox, Underwood, Geard, Brooks, Harrison, G. Billington, Davidson, Cooke, J. H. Bly, Bales, Light, C. J. Palmer, H. Martin, H. Fenn, Dickson, Brown, junr., J. W. Cockrill, May, Filby, J. Thomas, Leathes, A. Nelson, H. Catton, Shipley, &c.
The town had been visited by a heavy gale from the S.W.
Oct. 26th.—Coal was reduced in price from 34s. to 27s. per ton.
Prices for herring had ruled from £7 to £13 for salted, and from £8 to £20 for fresh fish; 3,454 lasts had been landed.
Nov. 2nd.—Mr. J. Owles’ collection of china had been sold in 1,800 lots.