Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 111- 1X
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1810
Jan 4th, A correspondent signing himself "A friend to the establishment" calling attention to the recent formation of a branch of the Bible Society in Exeter, remarks of the absence of the names of the Bishop and members of the Chapter from the list of subscribers. He points out that, "the object of the Society [which the Exeter resolutions studiously keep out of sight] is to distribute translations of the bible without any comment, that is, to put it in the hands of the common people leaving them to deduce their own opinions from it" ...."The danger of allowing the lower orders to deduce from the sacred volume their own opinions, or to wrest separate passages to the support of any doctrine to which their own inclination leads them, are obvious to every mind" ...."Let the Society distribute at the same time prayer books, let the common people be kept within the pale of the establishment."
Jan 11th, At a public meeting at Chard, the project of a canal to unite the Bristol and English Channels was discussed, and Mr RENNIE the engineer, was instructed to make a survey.
March 8th, In an advertisement headed "Shameless Impiety" The Rev Robert TRIPP, rector, and the churchwardens of Rewe, offer a reward for the discovery of "certain persons of respectable appearance" who were seen on the day appointed by the Government for a General Fast "pursuing the amusement of fishing in the river Colomb in the parish of Rewe, to the great scandal and annoyance of all serious and religious people of the parish."
April 5th, The above called forth the following lines by "Fechaur" addressed "To the Rector of Rewe"
"That a fast day's divine, Sir, with you I agree,
And as piously too would I watch it;
The abstain then from flesh is a canon with me,
But before I eat fish I must catch it."
April 19th, The Grand Western Canal commenced on the lands of Peter BLUETT, Esq at Holcombe Regis, the first turf being cut by the Right Hon Sir George YONGE, Bart.
July 21st Monday the 19th, being the day of the re-appointment of Commissioners under the new Improvement Act for Exeter, the Cathedral and parish bells rang and there was a public dinner at the Hotel [Clarence]
July 19th, A public meeting of citizens presided over by the Mayor, was held on the 13th, "for the purpose of impressing on the public their firm conviction of the strict honour and undeniable credit and responsibility of the four established banks of the city, viz, the City Bank, Exeter Bank, General Bank and the Devon County Bank" A resolution was unanimously passed pledging 400 and more persons whose names are subscribed, to receive their notes as cash, and to support their credit.
Similar meetings were held at Ashburton, Teignmouth, Plymouth, and Honiton, expressed confidence in the banks of those towns. The failure of the firm of Messers WILCOCK'S and Co, of the Western Bank, in Exeter and the reported stoppage of others in the county caused severe run on the cash of every bank in the city and county. The above meeting is said to have tranquillized the public mind, and, with similar meetings held in other towns confidence was soon restored.
Sept 18th, Notice of application of an Act for making a new turnpike road from Cullompton, Bradninch, and Broadclist, for Acts for the Grand Western Canal from Topsham to Taunton, the Torridge Canal from Wear Gifford, Torrington, and a canal from Beer and Seaton to Cannieton Pill, near Bridgwater.
Oct 4th, The late Mr Charles LEWIS succeeded Mr John CLIDDON, as secretary to the West of England, Insurance Company [Mr LEWIS held this office until his death in 1853, when he was succeeded by Mr William CANN]
Nov 1st, Rejoicings on completion of the 50th year of the King's reign, and a repetition on a smaller scale of the feastings, illuminations etc, on the commencement of the 50th year.
Nov 8th, Mol's Coffee House [now Mrs WORTH'S picture gallery adjoining St Martin's Church] advertised to be sold by private contract for an unexpired leasehold term of 38 years, under Dean and Chapter. It is described as, "admirably situated for business and supported by a liberal subscription of most of the respectable inhabitants of the city and neighbourhood, who frequent the rooms for the purpose of perusing the daily papers."
Nov 15th, Heavy rain caused the Exe to rise an unprecedented height, carrying away apples, hayricks, parts of houses and bridges etc. Many sheep and cattle were drowned in the marshes. There was great consternation in St Thomas where the water attained a depth of 5 feet at midnight on the 10th, and in Okehampton St was 6 feet deep on the footpath. Coaches from the west could not reach the city, the Totnes, Clarence coach-horses attempted to swim but the coach was upset near Alphington Cross, and two of the horses drowned, the passengers narrowly escaping a like fate. At Exeter Quay three vessels were stranded on the wharf. Another arch of the Cowley Bridge was washed away, great damage was also done in other parts of the city.
Nov 22nd, Death on the 20th, in his 60th year, at his house, 10 Bedford Circus, of Bartholomew PARR, M.D, senior physician of the Devon and Exeter Hospital [Dr PARR was son of an Exeter surgeon and was a Fellow of the Royal Society London and Edinburgh, he succeeded Dr Thomas GLASS as physician to the hospital in 1775, and was distinguished by great natural ability, and scientific, literary, and medical attainments]
Sweden declared war against Great Britain.
Dec The Prince of Wales appointed Regent owing to the King's mental incapacity.
Dec 27th, Lucien Bonaparte, brother of the Emperor, was brought to Plymouth from Lisbon with his family and suite in the President, 44 guns, on the 18th, and passed through Exeter on the 24th on his way towards Ludlow, where he was appointed to reside in a mansion belonging to Earl POWLS [?POWIS]
1811
Jan 3rd, Advertisement announcing the closing of the Devonshire Bank carried on by John BARING, Charlotte SHORT and Charles COLLINS, under the firm of Baring, Short and Collins, on the dissolution of the partnership.
Jan 17th, At a meeting held at the George Inn, North St, on the 11th, it was represented that although 2 years had elapsed since the Cowley Bridge fell down, and great inconvenience resulted from the obstruction of traffic, no preparations are making for its restoration, and it was resolved to call on the magistrates of the city and county to enforce its rebuilding.
March 28th, The late Samuel BARNES elected surgeon to the Eye Infirmary on the death of Mr Christopher Turner JOHNSON.
Aug 29th, A meeting held at the Hotel [Clarence], Exeter, the Bishop presiding, to establish a "Society for promoting the education of the poor in the county of Devon in the principles of the Established Church and according to Dr BELL'S plan."
Sept 19th, An advertisement announces that the inhabitants of the City and County of Exeter, having succeeded in the last Assizes in proving the liability of the Chamber to rebuild Cowley Bridge, and the latter not acquiescing therein, further legal proceedings will be needed, and a meeting is to be held at the George Inn, North St, to determine on the steps to be taken.
Oct 31st, Six French prisoners on parole at Okehampton escaped and, with the connivance of one JOHNS, a carpenter, made their way to Dartmoor. A few days afterwards they excited suspicions at South Bovey, and were pursued by the inhabitants, when three were secured, but the others with JOHNS escaped, one of them having killed a poor labourer, named Christopher SNELL, by stabbing him with a dagger. JOHNS wounded two others. The three other Frenchmen were captured, but JOHNS made good his escape for the present, a reward of £50 being offered for his apprehension.
Nov 14th, An advertisement announces that the Exeter Bank, carried on for 40 years under the firm of Sir John DUNTZE, Bart, SANDERS, HAMILTON and Co, in consequence of the death of Sir John DUNTZE and the recent decease of Mr HAMILTON, will be continued by the surviving partner, Joseph SANDERS, in conjunction with Joseph SANDERS Jnr and Edward Lloyd SANDERS, under the firm of Sanders, Son, and Company.
Nov, Serious machinery [Luddite] riots break out at Nottingham.
Dec 5th, Edmund KEAN appears as "Shylock" at Exeter Theatre. The editor simply records that "he has completely established his fame on these boards as an excellent actor."
1812
Jan 2nd, Writing of KEAN'S performance in "Harlequin’s Choice; or the Judgement of Paris" at the Exeter Theatre, the editor observes that, "Mr KEAN'S performance of Harlequin is superior to anything we have witnessed on our stage since the days of SULLY. He is all life, all motion, all activity, his figure is exactly calculated for the character, and neatness and elegancy of his step while tripping on the light fantastic too exacted general admiration. His leaps are uncommonly good and very clean."
Jan 9th, The Corporation of Trinity House advertises that "the two lights at the Lizard Point, which have hitherto been shown by coal fires, and found to be defective, are to be altered to oil lights, and the necessary lanthorns and reflectors are now erecting on the Towers ...with argand lamps and reflectors producing light of great brilliancy that will be visible to a great distance."
Jan 30th, Two Plymouth men named BENNETT and SALTER were publicly whipped in High St, Exeter, for having King's stores in their possession.
Feb 13th, On the 6th, after the crew of the Venus, lying in the Bight, Exmouth, had retired to rest, two of them a Welshman and a Frenchman, who had been a prisoner of war, but suffered to enter the English merchant service, rose and plundered the ship and went on board a pilot sloop, cut her cable, and in attempting to get to sea, ran on shore. They were captured at Chudleigh, confessing that they had intended to sail to France, and were committed for trial.
April 9th, James WILLIAMS, aged 24, executed for highway robbery of Mr E. LOCOCK, between Honiton and Yarcombe.
April 16th, The editor praises the talents of Edmund KEAN, now performing at the Exeter Theatre.
May 14th, A petition presented to both houses of Parliament by the Incorporation of Weavers, Fullers and Shearmen of Exeter, set forth that a few years ago there was in the city a flourishing foreign trade now nearly annihilated, that the European trade alone amounted to one million annually, that its deprivation is the more grievous as the Petitioners are excluded by the charter of the East India Company from certain markets, which might compensate in some measure for the loss of the ancient local trade, that this monopoly of the trade to India and China by the Company is highly injurious to commerce and inconsistent with sound commercial policy, and they pray for the abolition of the company's monopoly.
Assassination on the 11th of Mr PERCIVAL the Prime Minister, by BELLINGHAM, in the lobby of the House of Commons. John COOKE "the loyal saddler" of Exeter expresses his grief by closing his shop all day. The murderer was executed on the 18th.
July 2nd, A match of cocks advertised to be fought at Plymouth Dock between the Gentlemen of Devon and of Cornwall at 10 guineas a battle and 100 guineas the main.
July 16th, Betty the "English Roscius" performs at the Exeter Theatre.
Aug 13th, The committee appointed to procure the rebuilding of Cowley Bridge announce that an arrangement had been effected between the magistrates of Devon and the Mayor, Bailiffs and Commonalty of Exeter, which has rendered it unnecessary to go to trial against the latter, and that there bodies have agreed on a contract by which Mr James GREEN, the engineer, has undertaken the work of rebuilding.
Sept 3rd, Lord ROLLE advertises his intention to apply for an Act to form a harbour with Quay Dues on the river Otter, within his manors of Otterton and Budleigh Syon.
Sept 10th, Thomas JENKINS Esq, Lord of the Manor of Sidmouth, advertises his intention to apply for an Act for making a commodious harbour at Chit Rock, Sidmouth.
Sept 10th, Illumination last evening in Exeter in celebration of Lord WELLINGTON'S victory at Salamanca and the capture of Madrid. The morning was ushered in by the firing of canon, ringing of bells and waving of flags, the houses being decorated with laurel. Mr LAND'S illumination of the New London Inn was especially brilliant, and elsewhere in the city there were profuse displays of transparencies and coloured lamps. During the afternoon Lord MARCH, aide-de-camp to the Marquis of Wellington, passed through Exeter with despatches from his lordship announcing the surrender of Asturga.
The Chamber of Exeter announce a change in the holding of the Markets from Monday, Wednesday and Friday, to Tuesday and Friday. The Corn Market to be held from two to four on Fridays instead of from twelve to three.
Sept 24th, The late Mr Paul MEASOR appointed Postmaster of Exeter, two months later the post office was removed from Gandy St to Bedford Lane.
On the 14th the French enter Moscow, which is set on fire by the retreating Russians.
1813
Feb 4th, John COOKE issues a bulletin on the proposed Catholic Emancipation, a measure which excited great agitation and disquiet at this time. Numerous public meetings were held, at which the proposal was strongly condemned as destructive to the church and state.
March 4th, The newly erected Methodist Chapel in Mint Lane, Exeter, opened on the 25th ult.
April 1st, Thomas LUSCOMBE, aged 34, executed at the County Gaol for the murder of Sarah FORD at North Huish, and, on his own confession, guilty of the violation and murder of Margaret HUXTABLE of Dodbrooke, a little girl under ten years of age.
April 15th, A correspondent complains of the inconveniencies he encountered in a journey from Sidmouth to Newton Bushell. On leaving Sidmouth the road lay through a deep ravine just wide enough to admit his chaise, but fortunately he met no other carriage. Then he had to ascend a lofty hill, the torrents from whose summit having made a deep indent on its side answered the purpose of a road. At a narrow part of the road the legs of a traveller were crushed by his wheels. He reached Exmouth Ferry at sunset and was charged 16s for his passage, and though the distance from Exmouth to Teignmouth was but 7 miles, he was charged for 10. Before he reached the latter town his horses fell, but from the callosity of their knees and the unconcern of their driver, this appeared to be a common occurrence. The road from Teignmouth to Newton was so bad, that the writer thinks the inhabitants of the last named town need not fear invasion, and might smile at the efforts of Bonaparte and his whole corps of engineers, for he would defy any of them to bring one heavy piece of artillery along such roads. The ruts were deep enough to hide a flock of sheep, and his carriage though light, sunk to its axles.
May 13th, James BARRON stood in the pillory at Exeter for an hour, during the whole of which time he was pelted by the mob with rotten eggs, potatoes etc.
May 20th, On the 12th a terrible thunderstorm, with rain and hail, broke over Chulmleigh, damaging the church steeple, and rapidly flooding the marshes to a depth of 10 feet. Mr John SHUTE of Dolton, was drowned in an attempt to pass over Newnham Bridge.
Trewman's Flying Post March 12th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 111 - X
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1813
May 27th, A meeting of Exeter traders and dealers held at the Guildhall on the 22nd, Mr Shirley WOOLMER in the chair, resolved to petition the Treasury to afford relief against "the nefarious practices and frauds" of itinerant persons, who hired rooms for the sale by auction of inferior goods to the great injury of householding shopkeepers who pay high rents and taxes.
5 thatched houses at the lower end of Paris St destroyed by fire, to the great distress of the poor inhabitants, for whom a subscription was raised, and who were accommodated with temporary lodgings in the Cloth Hall at St John's Hospital.
June 3rd, "We are happy to hear that Samuel COUSINS, a poor boy, aged 12, belonging to one of the Charity Schools in this city, has been awarded with a silver palette by the Royal Society of Arts in London for his ingenuity in the execution of an admirable pencil drawing of the portrait of Ben JONSON" [This is the earliest notice we have met with of the career of the eminent engraver and R.A. He was born 9th May 1801, in an old house in Ewing's Lane, the materials of which were sold in 1875 when it was taken down. A record of the building is preserved in a sketch by Mr George TOWNSEND]
A prize for an English essay on Etymology awarded by the University of Oxford to Mr John Taylor COLERIDGE fellow of Exeter College [the future eminent Judge]
June 10th, Mr Robert PATCH of Castle St, Exeter, who for 30 years had been one of the surgeons of the Devon and Exeter Hospital, having died at Bath on the 6th, Messers Samuel BARNES, Charles PUGSLEY and John Haddy JAMES became candidates for the appointment, the former was elected.
July 8th, The remains of Sir Lawrence PALK, Bart, who died in London on the 20th ult, arrived in the New London Inn, Exeter, on the evening of the 2nd, and at 10am the next morning proceeded "with great funeral pomp" for interment in the family vault at Dunchideock. One hundred of the tenantry headed the procession on horseback, with hatbands, gloves, mutes, plumes etc. Then came the hearse and four mourning coaches, each drawn by four horses, and followed by a long train of private carriages. About 40 tradesmen on horseback closed the procession.
Jul 15th, The citizens of Exeter, express with a general illumination, bell ringing etc, on the 12th, "the joy they feel at the great and glorious victory gained by the Marquis WELLINGTON, over the would-be King Joe and the grand French army in Spain" Amongst the transparencies displayed, that of the eccentric saddler John COOKE receives special notice. "His house was a blaze of light with a portrait of the Marquis WELLINGTON in the centre" His transparencie explayed the patriotic sentiment. "May the embers of Moscow kindle the flame of Free Liberty all over the World" The account concludes with the editorial hope "that we shall ere long again have to display the same patriotic effusion to celebrate more victories of our brave Army and Navy, both in Europe and America to the discomfiture of the tyrant Bonaparte and all his ragamuffin adherents !!!"
Aug 5th, The paper contains an advertisement the "Prospectus of an Institution" to be called the "Devon and Exeter Institution for promoting the general diffusion of science, literature and the arts, and for illustrating the natural and civil history of the county of Devon and the history of the City Exeter" The "Plan" included the formation of a valuable and extensive library of books in all languages for circulation under the regulation of a committee, the establishment of a reading-room furnished with newspapers, periodicals and maps, the formation of a Museum of natural history and the arts, more particularly the productions of Devonshire, and the purchase of philosophical instruments. The institution was to be formed by proprietors, shares of £25 each, and an annual subscription of £1 by each proprietor and a meeting was to be held on the 12th at the Hotel [now the Clarence] of gentlemen inclined to promote the scheme. The plan of the Institution originated with Dr LEACH of Plymouth.
Aug 19th, James PHILLIPS who for several years had been the landlord of the Hotel [now the Clarence] having become bankrupt, Samuel FOOTE, from Plymouth, advertises that he has taken the house. He proceeded to improve it greatly by an assembly room, in the decoration of the Egyptian style, he engaged the services of Mr De MARIA, whose work on the ceiling is described as a masterpiece of "classic taste and elegance" The new room was opened with a ball the following December [Mr FOOTE, who was well connected was father of the celebrated actress]
Aug 28th, St Sidwell's new church opened on the 23rd with a "Grand Musical Festival" in which Madame CATALINA sung in the Oratorio of the Messiah" This gifted singer also performed in the Cathedral for charitable objects.
On the same day the new Plymouth Theatre was opened, erected from the designs of Mr FOULSTON, architect.
Aug 30th, The Bishop at the new church of St Sidwell's on Sunday the 25th, when it was opened for Divine Service
Oct 7th, The committee of the newly founded Devon and Exeter Institution advertise that they had opened a reading-room at Mr BATH'S in High St, opposite Martin's Lane.
Oct 14th, LUCOMBE, PINCE and Co advertise the introduction of their "new Lucombe oak"
The annual report of the West of England Eye Infirmary mentions a proposal to purchase a freehold house and garden in Magdalen St for an Infirmary.
The London Mail is advertised to leave Exeter every morning a 4.30 and arrive in London a 6am the next morning. The journey to Plymouth by coach occupied 8 hours, to Falmouth 18 hours.
The inequalities of the county ratings are hotly discussed at this period.
In an advertisement for the sale of Ratcliffe's corn mills, opposite Engine Bridge, appears the following "Lot 8 :- A steam engine of six horse power [on Bolton and Watt's principle] and complete in every respect."
Nov 4th, The Bishop consecrates an addition to St Sidwell's churchyard.
Nov 11th, A general meeting of proprietors of the Devon and Exeter Institution called to consider the propriety of purchasing Courtenay House [The county town residence of this distinguished family was soon after acquired and has ever since been known as the Institution. In the Librarian's residence in the rear is an old mantelpiece with coats of arms and other traces of the former owners]
The Mayor Mr Burnet PATCH, appoints a day for illuminations in honour of the recent victories, but warns the citizens against rolling tar barrels through the streets.
Dec 2nd, An advertisement announces a change in the proprietorship of the Plymouth Chronicle which "will in future be conducted on Loyal Church and King principles every Wednesday."
1814
Jan 13th, A heavy fall of snow occurred in this neighbourhood. It began on the evening of Monday, the 10th, and continued the whole of the following day. The roads leading from Exeter were buried many feet deep, the streets presented a dreary appearance, the shops being mostly closed and no one venturing abroad but from urgent need. The snow lay 3 or 4 feet deep in many streets. The mails from London and Plymouth had to be brought in by saddle horses. The Renfrew militia on their march towards Plymouth were compelled to return to Exeter on finding the snow drifts on Haldon from 10 to 15 feet deep.
At the City Quarter Sessions, James SHARLAND, for stealing from James FORD, of the Pelican Public House, sundry, bills, money, spoons etc, was found guilty and received sentence of death." Nathaniel GREGORY, for stealing 10 pounds of pewter, got 7 years transportation, while the receiver of the stolen goods got 14 as the bigger rogue of the two.
A county meeting held under the presidency of the High Sheriff to congratulate the Prince Regent on the late victories and improved aspect of public affairs.
Jan 20th, The heavy snow fall still blocks the roads, four of Russell's waggons and a coach were buried on Haldon, 200 bullocks on their way to Plymouth for the Navy accomplished the passage over the hill with great difficulty. The greatest obstruction occurred in the westward roads, on the London road the coaches were delayed only a few hours, and the Bath and North Devon roads were tolerably free. The ground lay under snow for 3 weeks, additional falls having occurred in the interval. Special subscriptions entered into for the relief of the poor. There was a severe frost in London and a fair was held on the frozen Thames.
Feb 3rd, KEAN, who has been mentioned as performing in Exeter in the last two seasons, makes his first appearance in London as Shylock at Drury Lane.
March 3rd, A County Committee formed to obtain subscriptions to the national fund for relieving distress in Germany.
March 10th, In an account of a murder supposed to have been committed in Essex by one MATTHEWS, it is stated that "the surgeon who was called in to the deceased, after MATTHEWS was in custody, had him taken to the body of the deceased and made him put his hand upon it, which trembled excessively, and he exclaimed. "Oh, poor old soul! poor old man!" This mode of testing the guiltiness does not appear to have been regarded as at all irregular.
March 17th, The following reference is made to the noted "Captain COOKE" leader of the County Sheriff's troop of Javelin men :- "The loyalty and patriotism which have at all times and on all occasions been displayed by Mr John COOKE of this city, saddler, having been represented to the Prince Regent, H.R.H, has been graciously pleased to grant permission that H.R.H'S Crest of the Plume of Feathers should be placed over Mr COOKE'S shop door, as a distinguishing mark of H.R.H'S approbation."
The following is quoted as a fair example of the reports of the proceedings at the Assizes. The trials at Nisi Prius are seldom noticed at all :- "The Assizes for the County of Devon commenced at the Castle of this City on Monday last, before Sir John BAILEY and Sir Henry DAMPIER, Knights. The following prisoners were capitally convicted and received sentence of death, viz, John MORRISON for assaulting Thomas REBURN near the highway at Stoke Damerel, and taking from him at hat, waistcoat money etc. Anne FRENCH for setting fire to a cellar adjoining to the house of Richard WAY of Halberton, John GOFF for stealing two black coats, a pair of breeches and a black waistcoat, James HANLON, for stealing three Bank of England notes, John SERVANT, for stealing a pocket-book, a silver knife, four gold earrings, two silver stamps, with various other articles valued at £50, John COCKRAM for stealing four pairs of shoes and a pair of boots, Henry REES, a £50 interest note, and some wearing apparel, Joseph OPE for horse stealing and John GODDARD, for housebreaking and stealing cyder." [It was usual to commute the majority of the capital sentences]
April 7th, Announcement of the entry of the allies into Paris on the 21st March. The French Senate adopt a new constitution and restore the Bourbon dynasty under Louis XV111.
May 5th, rejoicing in Exeter on the restoration of peace. The Mayor Burnet PATCH, invited 300 citizens "to meet him at the Mayoralty House to celebrate with smiling bumpers the happy return of peace" There was a very long list of toasts, and four barrels of beer were given to the populace at the Guildhall. The streets were decorated and at night illuminated. "One exhibition attracted all ranks to view it, in Gandy St, Mr TUCKER, cabinet maker, had thrown a platform across the street about 15 feet from the ground, on which was fixed a very large cage, with the tyrant Bonaparte remarkably well-dressed in his uniform and as large as life, inclosed in it, a chain round his neck which was held by the Devil [an excellent figure the same size as the one within] sitting on the cage outside in the similitude of his keeper." There were fireworks in the Cathedral Yard and on the Haven Banks opposite Colleton St, and the whole week seems to have been given up to the holiday.
May 12th, The account is continued. After describing festivities in various parishes it proceeds; "The parishioners of St David's marched to the Cloth Hall in grand style with music and flags. In the procession was a man on horseback, dressed precisely a la Bonaparte, with a halter round his neck, and a white handkerchief in his hand, with which he was constantly wiping the tears which fell from his overflowing eyes, he wears an excellent mask, and performed his character to admiration. He was accompanied by a person representing some would-be prelate of a lying prophetess, who had foretold that the Corsican was to subdue this country etc" The report, which occasionally rises into ecstatic terms, well illustrates the temper and taste of the day.
June 16th, A great thunderstorm occurred at Exeter, the city being illuminated by vivid and frequent flashes of lightening. The rain poured in torrents and the sewers being overcharged, the water accumulated to a depth of 3 feet in some streets. June 23rd, "EXPEDITION, The mail coach from London arrived in this city last evening at five past six, being 4 hours within time, having performed the journey in little more than 20 hours." June 30th, William COURTENAY, Esq, M.P, for Exeter [afterwards Earl of Devon] elected by the Mayor and Chamber, Recorder of Exeter, vice Charles FANSHAWE, deceased.
The peace in France, formally proclaimed at the usual place on the 25th in Exeter. There was a long procession accompanying the Herald William AUNGER, mercer, on horseback and escorted by military. The various trading companies joined in the procession, exhibiting the whole process of the woollen manufacture from the shearing of the sheep to the shipping of the bales. There were several bands of music. Bishop BLAIZE and his chaplain were drawn in a car. A weaver was at work on his loom, and there was a "blue man" on horseback. The fullers appeared with green aprons and white strings, tuckers with green aprons and green stripes, dyers with blue aprons and white strings, hotpressers with green aprons and red strings, and a ship full-rigged, represented the commerce with Hamburg, Cadiz and Oporto.
July 14th, Mr COURTENAY signalises his accession to the Recordership by pronouncing sentence of death on James WINGFIELD for burglariously entering the house of James WORTHY, in Exe Island, and stealing £400 in bills and cash.
Aug 11th, Accounts are rife at this time of the proceedings, pretended accouchement, and death of Joanna SOUTHCOTE
"Saturday at noon, William VINCENT was executed at the Devon Gaol drop, pursuant to his sentence at our late Assizes, for being concerned with several others [smugglers] in the murder of Thomas WILLS, an exciseman, at Brixham, upwards of nine years since. A bout 7am in the above morning the unhappy culprit cut his throat with a knife he had obtained, but not so effectually as to deprive him of existence. He was brought in a bed to the platform apparently almost lifeless. Immediately as he was turned off the blood gushed from the wound, flowing over his body and arms, which rendered it a most shocking sight to the spectators. The body, after hanging the usual time, was conveyed to the Devon and Exeter Hospital for dissection."
Aug 18th, "The subscription coach which left London on Thursday evening last at 7pm arrived in this city on the following day at 12, having performed the distance 164 miles in 17 hours, carrying 9 passengers, exclusive of the coachman and guard."
Sept 15th, "Saturday last the Right Worshipful Mayor and Chamber of the city elected Edward GATTEY, Esq to the office of Town Clerk, vacant by the late resignation of Henry LEY, Esq, who has filled that situation with distinguished honour to himself and highly to the satisfaction of his fellow citizens during a period of nearly 40 years, having been elected to the office in 1775" They also gave him a 100 guinea piece of plate.
Oct 2nd, A new organ "opened" at St Stephen's Church, Exeter.
Oct 6th, The freedom of Exeter presented to Lord Exmouth.
The new Cowley Bridge opened on the 4th, the old Bridge having been destroyed by flood in January 1809.
Oct 13th, The freedom of Plymouth presented to B. R. HAYDON, the historical painter, whose father, a bookseller, had been the correspondent and agent for the Exeter Flying Post in that town.
Oct 20th, Madame CATALANI and Mr BRAHAM sang at a music festival in the Cathedral, and a concert in the Exeter Theatre.
Oct 27th, Sadler's Balloon ascended from the Castle Yard and landed at Newton Poppleford. The aeronaut on returning to the city on horseback at 10pm, was received by a great crowd at the Old London Inn [now the Bude Haven Inn and adjacent shop and was carried thence on men's shoulders to his lodgings "amidst the exalting shouts of the multitude."
Nov 24th, The Chamber advertise for contracts to build the upper and lower rows of houses on Southernhay.
Dec 24th, Treaty of Peace signed between Great Britain and the United States.
1815
Jan 12th, John BAKER, convicted at the city sessions of stealing copper coins from William STRONG, was sentenced to 6 months imprisonment and to be "once publicly whipped from the Guildhall to St John's Bow and back again."
Feb 25th, Napoleon escapes from Elba.
March 2nd, The following extracts from an official advertisement of assessed taxes at this time, for the attention of the admirers of "the good old times" "A manservant not in livery, £4-10s per annum, if in livery £1 more. The owner of one horse paid £5, for two he was charged £8, for three £9. For a two-wheeled carriage £17, for one with four wheels, £21, for two carriages £23, for three £25. Bachelorhood was punished by a charge of 50% above these rates. The dog tax was 30s, and a tavern-waiter was charged £4-10s. The stamp duties were little less onerous, advertisements paid 3s-6d each, newspapers 4d, fire insurance 3s per cent. Bank notes of 1 guinea were charged 5d, £10 notes, 1s-9d, those of £50, 5s, and those of £100, 8s-6d.
March 30th, "On Monday Samuel NORTON was executed in front of the Devon County Gaol, pursuant to his sentence at our Castle on Saturday last for the wilful murder of his mistress Mary MATTERS, at Whitchurch. The conduct of this hardened wretch during his confinement exhibited the most brutal depravity of mind, but on ascending the fatal drop his false courage forsook him, he appeared dreadfully agitated, and met his fate with fear and trembling"
April 20th, On the death of Mr Peter RADFORD one of the surgeons of the hospital, the following well remembered practitioners became candidates for the appointment, William Page KINGDON, John HARRIS, Edward P. PRIDHAM, Robert PINHEY, John Haddy JAMES, and John TUCKER. Mr HARRIS was elected. Mr J. H. JAMES having been summoned to join his regiment, withdrew his application, and two months later he was present at the battle of Waterloo.
May 18th, The late Messers Harry JAMES, Ralph BARNES, William PRATER, Hugh M. ELLICOMBE and John TERRELL, became candidates for the County Treasurership, vacant by the resignation of Samuel PIERCE, Mr JAMES secured the appointment.
June 1st, A meeting held at the Hotel [Clarence] considered a plan for lighting Exeter with gas. A committee had been formed, and Messers R. PHILLIPS, Jun, M. BARRETT and James GOLSWORTHY, were sent to London to obtain information, and they have reported, it was resolved to form the Exeter Gas Light Company, with a capital of £12,000 in £50 shares, no one to hold more than five. Mr GATTEY and Mr KENDALL to be solicitors pro tem. In the local news column, "It will be seen by an advertisement that preparations are making to light this city with gas, in the same manner as it has been done with so much success in many streets of the metropolis. The brilliancy of the gas light is so superior to that of oil or tallow, as to bear no comparison to it, whilst the saving in point of expense is so considerable that we make no doubt the plan will be eagerly encouraged by the inhabitants of this city, and that it will be speedily adopted in every considerable town throughout the kingdom."
June 15th, Great curiosity excited at Hayle in Cornwall on the arrival of the schooner yacht propelled by steam.
June 22nd, "The Phenomenon of England. The astonishing Devonshire boy, George BIDDER, who is not yet nine years of age" is advertised to exhibit his wonderful calculating powers at Exeter on his way to London from his native town of Moretonhampstead. Subsequent papers give accounts of his calculating performances. [Mr George Parker BIDDER, the opening of whose career is thus referred to, having required wealth and fame as a civil engineer, died at his seat, Ravensbury, Dartmouth, Sept 20, 1878, aged 73]
June 29th, The Duke of Wellington's despatch, dated from Waterloo on the 19th, is given to this paper.
July 6th, The Chamber vote the freedom of Exeter to the Duke of Wellington in a gold box of 100 guineas value.
July 16th, Napoleon, unable to effect his intended escape to America, surrenders to Captain MAITLAND of the Bellersphon off Rochfort, and arrives in Torbay on the 24th.
July 27th, Mr and Mrs Charles KEMBLE appear at the Exeter Theatre
Sept 14th, Miss O'NEILL makes her appearance there as Juliet.
The first stone of "Captain COOKE'S, Waterloo Cottage" was laid on the 8th by Mr John LAND, landlord of the New London Inn [This house on Pennsylvania Hill is still known by the same name]
Nov 16th, A coach advertised to run from Exeter to Falmouth in 41 hours.
Nov 30th, Proposals made to establish the Devon and Exeter Savings Bank.
Dec 7th, These were carried to effect at a public meeting.
On this evening an experimental exhibition of gas lighting took place in Exeter for the first time. Two "superb lamps" connected to Mr PHILLIPS'S private laboratory were placed in front of the Guildhall and "illuminated the street for a considerable distance" Great praise bestowed on "Mr Reuben PHILLIPS, Jnr, by whose ingenuity this modern discovery has been so readily introduced into Exeter."
Trewman's Flying Post March 19th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 111 - X1
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1816
Jan 4th, The subscribers of the Exeter Gas Light Company pass resolutions expressive of their satisfaction in the manner in which a part of the city had been lit by Messers PHILLIPS and GOSWORTHY, and recommended an extension of the system.
The new road from Broadclist to Cullompton superseding the old route through Bradninch is now nearly completed, and is expected to effect a saving of half an hour on the journey from Exeter to Bath.
Jan 18th, A fire which broke out in the centre of the town of Moretonhampstead destroyed 15 dwelling houses and other buildings. One aged woman was burnt to death.
Jan 25th, The Hon, Mr Justice HEATH died on the 16th at his seat Parkhouse, in the parish of Hayes, Middlesex, aged 83. [John HEATH the son of an Exeter merchant, was elected Town Clerk of Exeter on the death of his uncle Benjamin HEATH, L.L.D, in 1766. He was appointed Recorder of the city, 26th Sept 1779, and Judge of the Common Pleas in 1780, he had resided in the ancient and lately restored house in High St, now tenanted by Messers ROSS]
The return of peace was celebrated on the 18th by thanksgiving services, public dinners, bell ringing, bonfires and illuminations.
The Austrian Archduke passed through Exeter on the 24th on his way to London.
Feb 1st, Mr Robert TREWMAN, editor and part proprietor of the Exeter Flying Post, died on the 28th ult after a long illness aged 49. He resided at 21 Southernhay, of which he was owner and first occupant after its erection in 1809. He left a widow and 10 children. His mother, who was his partner in the firm of Trewman and Son also survived him. Mr TREWMAN was greatly respected in Exeter, he had been one of the Common Council from 1809, was elected Sheriff in 1815, and was also a Captain in the East Devon Yeomanry Cavalry, and a Freemason.
Feb 8th, "Thursday morning 1st, died in his 88th year John BARING Esq, of Mount Radford, near this city, who during 25 years represented this city in Parliament and resigned that honour in 1803. During the prosperity of the woollen trade he was the leading and most considerable merchant in the county. He was a man of profound and universal knowledge in commerce, in his transactions with mankind he was a pattern of diligence, punctuality and correctness, his liberality and usefulness have been experienced by numerous families in the neighbourhood, and his memory will be long held in respect and veneration by a large circle of friends and relatives." [Mr BARING was the eldest son of John BARING of Larkbear, the founder of this distinguished family. He was educated at Geneva and, after improving his commercial knowledge by continental travel, returned to his native city in 1757. Where his intelligence and abilities soon raised him to fame and affluence. In conjunction with his brother Francis he founded a London branch of the Larkbear woollen factory, but the partners were chiefly known as the founders of the financial house of Baring Brothers, the conduct of which rested mainly with Francis, whilst the elder brother, John established a firm known as the Plymouth Bank and another in Exeter known as the Devonshire Bank, which finally suspended payment in 1820. In 1770 Mr John BARING purchased from Arthur KELLY Esq, the Manor of Heavitree, which included Mount Radford, where he erected a stately mansion and formed a park. Sir John BOWRING described his personal appearance as "Singular coat, waistcoat, breeches of a light speckled colour, it was called pepper and salt, silk stockings of the same, small steel buckles at his knees, large steel buckles on his shoes. He was a tall thin man, with powdered hair, and a sharp, penetrating look, who seemed to measure with his gold-headed cane every step as he walked. The people called him "old Turkey legs".
The first Exeter Gas Bill referred to a select committee of the House of Commons.
Feb 15th, The country gentry and farmers send a petition to Parliament complaining of the depression in the value of agricultural produce and the heavy burden of taxation. At this time wheat is quoted 8s-4d per bushel, which of course represents much more than that sum does now.
Feb 29th, A public meeting of citizens held at Exeter, the Rev W. CARWITHON in the chair, strongly deprecates the continuance of property tax. Mr Thomas NORTHMORE of Cleave, makes an energetic speech in reprobation of the Ministry in daring to burthen the nation with this obnoxious war tax in time of peace and in spite of their faith [We have witnessed something like a reproduction of this historical incident 60 years later. In the former case however the voice of the country appears to have been more strongly pronounced, and the tax was taken off]
March 29th, The West of England Insurance Company establish, "a regular body of firemen" to work their engine in Exeter. An advertisement announces the letting of "the Katencamp Estate" consisting of a large dwelling house, stables gardens etc, "situated on Holloway, near the Topsham Rd, commanding a fine view of the grounds, and adjoining to Mount Radford" [Herman KATENCAMP, an Exeter merchant, who like the BARINGS was of German extraction, lived in the large handsome house on the east side of Holloway St, now occupied as a ladies school. His daughter Anne was married in 1773 to John MERIVALE, Esq, and was the mother of the late distinguished scholar, John Herman MERIVALE Esq of Barton Place, near Cowley Bridge]
April 4th, The Exeter Post Office moved from Bedford Lane to the back of the house occupied in Bedford Circus by the postmaster Mr Paul MEASOR [This miserable structure continued to be used as a post-office until the introduction of the penny postage. It stands on the corner of the lane named after it "Post Office Lane" [anciently Doddebay St, the way leading to Dodd's field or enclosure] and has, until lately been used as a store house by the Exeter Water Company. Mr MEASOR filled the office as postmaster here for half a century until his death]
May 9th, On the death of Mr PEPPIN, senior surgeon of the Devon and Exeter Hospital, who died on the 6th, the late Messers John Haddy JAMES, E. P. PRIDHAM, John TUCKER and William LAND, were candidates for the appointment. Mr JAMES was elected on the 11th June.
May 26th, Messers OXENHAM and PIM'S paper mills at Countess Weir destroyed by fire.
June 6th, The foundation stone of the new church of St David's laid in Bury Meadow on the King's birthday, the 5th, Mr James GREEN the County Surveyor, was the architect. "When finished it must, from its situation, have a grand effect, and form a most pleasing view from the delightful walks which surround it on every side."
A new light coach established to perform the journey from Exeter to Bath in 12 hours. It carried 4 inside passengers, none outside.
A remarkable succession of fires at Honiton is attributed to incendiaries and subscriptions entered into to provide a reward of £100 for their discovery.
June 20th, The anniversary of Waterloo was celebrated by the ringing of the Cathedral and parish bells, and, by a grotesque procession in which "the celebrated John COOKE rode through the streets seated, Bacchus-like on the beer cask" which he had provided for the libations of the soldiers, their wives and children. "In return for this "Honest John" was chaired through the High St on the shoulders of the soldiers" There were numerous dinner parties and other convivial meetings to celebrate the victory over "the army which had long threatened destruction to Europe, drove into captivity its tyrant leader, and clouded his fame for ever."
June 27th, First trial at Plymouth of the newly invented diving-bell.
July 4th, Contributions collected for the relief of sufferers from a fire which destroyed 17 houses at Thorverton.
Aug 25th, Bombardment of Algiers and destruction of the Algerine fleet by Lord Exmouth.
Aug 29th, Completion after 17 years labour of a tunnel more than a mile and a half long, on the Tavistock and Tamar Canal, was commenced in 1803, opened on the 23rd July.
KEAN appears in Othello and other parts at the Exeter Theatre.
Nov 7th, An attempt made to rob the "Fly" coach to Plymouth on Whiteway Hill, Haldon, by two footpads who escaped.
Messers Robert William NEWMAN [afterwards baronet] William Arundel HARRIS of Lifton Park, William COURTENAY [the Recorder afterwards Earl of Devon] James BULLER of Downes, and Thomas NORTHMORE of Cleve, issue addresses as candidates for the representation of Exeter, The election did not, however, take place until 1818.
Nov 9th, The famous "Captain" John COOKE was married for the 3rd time at St Sidwell's. The bride was Mary, widow of the late Burnaby LLOYD, gent of Poplar Cottage, St Sidwell's. "After the performance of the nuptial ceremony the happy couple, attended by their friends, returned to Harmony House, Longbrook St [the residence of the bride] where they partook of an elegant breakfast, and then set off in carriages [gay with hymeneal smiles and profusely decked with bridal flowers] to spend the day at Teignmouth, the auspicious day that brought in union two fond hearts which seemed in nature for each other formed" etc
Dec 19th, The bakers of Exeter having advanced the price of the quartern loaf to seventeen pence three-farthings, the editor wants to know why, seeing that wheat has fallen 9s a quarter. The price per bushel was 15s-4d.
1817
Jan 23rd, A high tide and violent storm on the south coast of Devon by which the Passage House and Watch House at Exmouth were destroyed.
The National Debt reached its maximum of £848,282, 477.
Jan 30th, Mr John LAND of the New London Inn died on the 24th, aged 87. He was believed to be the oldest and wealthiest innkeeper in the West of England, having carried on business for more than 50 years, the funeral took place at Pinhoe on the 3rd February. The procession was long and striking, a number of mutes, undertakers etc, preceded a hearse decked with plumes and drawn by six horses. After the hearse came 8 stage coaches and four, then followed 15 post chaises, conveying innkeepers and other friends of the deceased, and the procession closed with six mail guards in uniform and 160 horsemen, two and two. An immense crowd lined St Sidwell's as far as St Anne's Chapel [Mr LAND was succeeded by John CLENCH as landlord of the New London Inn. An engraved likeness of him was often to be met with in West country inns, but is now growing rare]
Feb 27th, The Grand Duke Nicholas of Russia, on a tour westward, dined at the Golden Lion Inn, Honiton, and slept at FOOTE'S [Clarence] Hotel, Exeter.
The late Mr John DINHAM advertises his business as a jeweller, silversmith, etc, at 84 Fore St.
April 3rd, 21 prisoners sentenced to death at the Assizes were all reprieved.
April 10th, The bad state of Southgate Prison leads to proposals for a new one for the city prisoners. It is stated that Southgate contains no airing ground or separate beds for debtors. "The prisoners for trial and under sentence are crowded together in dungeons too disgusting for description" and they have to descend to their sleeping place through a trap door by ladder.
April 24th, The accounts for the cost of rebuilding St Sidwell's Church occasion much discussion at this time. The outlay was £8,000, the trustees of the fund pronounce the church to be "an elegant edifice equally creditable to the talents of the architect and an ornament to the city of Exeter." Mr William BURGES was the architect
The advertisements of lotteries which has been frequent and highly favoured during the long war, now begin to slacken. Accounts of pedestrian feats are also common and this paper relates the performance of a sailor who walked barefoot from Plymouth Dock [Devonport] to Exeter in seven and a half hours.
May 15th, " We feel pride in announcing the rapid advancement of our fellow-citizen Mr GIFFORD, who was sworn into the office of H. M. Solicitor-General and a King's Counsel by the Lord Chancellor on Friday last 9th." Exeter has produced several eminent Law characters, amongst them the present Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, and the late Judge HEATH. The great Lord King, who in the reign of George 1, was Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, and afterwards Lord High Chancellor, was son of Jerome KING, grocer of this city, and drew his first breath in the same house in which Mr GIFFORD was born."
May 15th, An extraordinary hail storm occurred at Exeter.
May 22nd, Died on Friday morning, the 8th, after a short illness, Miss Sarah HEARD, proprietor of Mol's Coffee House, in this city, which she had conducted for upwards of 25 years with great credit to herself and satisfaction to the numerous and respectable subscribers. She was in her 77th year, and was through life highly esteemed by a large circle of friends. The Coffee House was immediately afterwards advertised for sale for an unexpired term of 29 years granted by the Dean and Chapter. "It is admirably calculated for business, and is supported by a liberal subscription of most of the respectable inhabitants of the city and neighbourhood, who frequent the room for the purposes of perusing the daily papers."
A meeting of Trinity parishioners held this day to consider the propriety of removing the tower, widening the street and enlarging the church or building a new one. Mr Samuel Frederick MILFORD offered £100 towards the work besides his share of the rates.
June 5th, An alarming fire at the back of the Swan Inn, St Thomas, destroyed two houses and several cottages and other buildings including Messers HARDING and RICHARDS brewery and the back premises of the Okehampton Inn, Okehampton St. The poor sufferers were relieved by a subscription.
July 3rd, A fire at Halberton destroyed 21 dwellings
July 10th, "The whole of the Fore St from the Bridge to the Old London Inn has been lighted with gas for several nights past, it exhibits a most brilliant appearance, and forms a striking contrast to the poor glimmering lights which have hitherto disgraced our streets. Most of the principal tradesmen have adopted this improved method of lighting their shops, which produces the finest effects, and the advantages are in many respects, so evident, that it will soon become general."
July 17th, The Sessions Grand Jury found a true bill of indictment against Trinity parish "on account of the dilapidated and alarming state of the church and particularly of its tower, which they represented as so decayed and ruinous as to endanger life of every person who passes through the street into which it projects" The prosecution was at the suit of the Mayor, Chuchwardens and others.
July 24th, Exhibition at Totnes, the birthplace of Brockedon the artist of his picture of the Judgement of Daniel.
Aug 14th, A committee appointed by the Commissioners of Improvement to investigate the cost of widening the upper part of North St.
The corner stone of the new Episcopal School in Paul St laid on the 21st by the Bishop. The Mayor and Chamber and Incorporate Trades attended the Cathedral in procession and then adjourned to the site, after which they proceeded to the Guildhall where the company drank to the "Prosperity of the Episcopal Charity Schools and may Church and State continue to be united in their support." "After witnessing the distribution pf a bun and a shilling to each child, more than 40 of the subscribers spent the remainder of the day in the Old London Inn in conviviality and good humour under the presidency of the Mayor."
Sept 11th, Notice of application to Parliament for an Act for building a new City Gaol.
Mr James BULLER announces that he will decline offering himself for re-election as member for Exeter.
Announcement of the establishment of "a handsome new car on springs, carrying four inside" to travel from Exeter to Plymouth three times a week in 9 hours, fares 16s.
Oct 2nd, The consecration of the new church of St David’s on the 25th ult was celebrated by "an elegant dinner" at the London Inn, when "choice wines" flowed freely and "the evening was spent in mirth and harmony" The building is described as in "the Grecian style and presents a handsome appearance. I has a grand portico and tower at the West end, and the exterior of the whole is plastered with Roman cement shaded so as to resemble stone, of which the imitation is very good."
"A Grand Skimmington Riding" accompanied by a long procession through all the principal streets of Exeter, in honour of "Captain" COOKE, whose marriage to Mrs Mary LLOYD, took place on the 14th Nov last. The procession finally reached Waterloo Cottage Pennsylvania Hill, where the gallant captain and his wife seated in their parlour, with a few select friends, over a bottle of wine, boldly awaited their approach."
Oct 9th, The "gallant captain" inserts a long and eccentric advertisement in which he enters into many curious details of his connubial quarrels.
Oct 16th, The 20th appointed for laying the foundation stone of the Wellington Column on Blackdown by Lord Somerville
1818
Jan 15th, "An advantageous concern to be sold" An advertisement under this heading offers the undertaking of the Exeter and Crediton Canal, partially constructed under an Act obtained in 1801.
The project of a Public Dispensary for Exeter, which was first entertained in December 1817, was decided on at a public meeting on the 17th and a subscription list was opened.
Sir Robert GIFFORD, solicitor-general, elected Recorder of Bristol, in the room of Lord Chief Justice GIBBS, both natives of Exeter.
Jan 29th, The County Magistrates resolved "to erect a new Sheriff's Ward for debtors, in St Thomas and advertised premiums for plans.
Feb 19th, "The 1st prize of the British Institution, 100 guineas, awarded to Mr BROCKEDON for his picture of Christ raising the Widow's Son.
March 12th, Tremendous storms of wind and rain caused great destruction of property in the neighbourhood of Exeter, uprooting trees and overturning chimneys and walls. The Exe overflowed its banks and carried off a great number of sheep from the marshes. The houses in St Thomas and Alphington St were inundated. The horses in one of the Exeter goods waggons being frightened by a loud clap of thunder, started off a full speed overturning the waggon in the water at Easton's Bridge on the Cullompton Rd by which two of the passengers and a child, and one of the horses were drowned.
March 19th, The Exeter Dispensary opened on the 16th.
A reward of 20 guineas offered for the discovery of miscreants who opened a grave in Otterton churchyard containing the remains of Rev Samuel LEAT, dissenting minister, who was buried last May. The coffins were opened and the corpse maltreated, the shroud torn in pieces and the cloth removed.
April 2nd, John GREEN a mail bag porter, of Plymouth Dock [Devonport] was executed at the county gaol for an unnatural crime.
May 28th, The foundation stone of the new Sheriff's Ward in St Thomas [now militia stores] laid on the 22nd by Sir William Templer POLE, Bart, High Sheriff of Devon.
June 4th, A general meeting of the merchants trading with Spain, held on the 26th ult in the hall of the Incorporated Society of Fullers, Weavers and Shearmen of the port of Exeter [Abraham KENNAWAY Esq in the chair] passed a resolution of approval of Mr James BULLER'S Parliamentary conduct, and regret at his intended retirement from public life after representing Exeter for 28 years.
June 11th, The first stone of the New City Prison was laid by the Mayor on the King's birthday 4th. The Mayor Magistrates and others went in procession from the Guildhall to the site at the foot of Northernhay. After the ceremony was the inevitable dinner at the Old London Inn and "the day was closed in the greatest harmony."
July 16th, At the General Election, Lord Ebrington and Mr J. P. BASTARD were chosen for Devon, the former with 4,890, the latter with 3,829 votes. Sir T. D. ACLAND who resigned on the last day of the contest received 3,804. The election for Exeter resulted in the return of William COURTENAY Esq [the Recorder afterwards Earl of Devon] by 730 votes, and Mr Robert William NEWMAN by 625, Mr Thomas NORTHMORE of Cleve, the unsuccessful candidate received only 293 votes. Sir Lawrence V. PALK was returned for Ashburton, Messers CRAWLEY and P. J. CUST for Honiton, and Messers ALBANY and Christopher SAVILE for Okehampton, Lord Ebrington's return for Devon was celebrated by a dinner at Clench's New London Inn.
July 23rd, A great thunder storm on the 18th occasioned much damage at Exmouth, Woodbury, Budleigh etc.
Aug 3rd, The Cathedral closed for the erection of a new altar screen by John KENDALL "It replaces a plain surfaced wall of freestone which terminated the chancel on the east .... braced by iron bars and probably erected about the period of the Reformation, but altered and painted in 1639 it is said at the instance of Archdeacon HELYAR. The painting represented the interior of the church in the false taste of the times an heterogeneous mixture of Roman with pointed style of architecture in the centre was painted the figures of Moses and Aaron supporting the two tables of Decalogue [The new altar screen completed in January 1819]
Aug 6th, The freedom of Exeter presented by the Chamber to Sir Thomas Dyke ACLAND on the 1st inst, at the close of the late election for Devon
Trewman's Flying Post March 26th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 111 - X11
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1818
Sept 3rd, Announcement of the intention to lay the first stone of Baring Crescent, Exeter on the 9th. It was "to consist of 12 houses on the style of superior cottages" and to be erected on ground granted by Sir Thomas BARING to Mr BROWN. Baring Place had already been built.
Sept 17th, The Grand Duke Michael brother of the Emperor of Russia, stopped at Clench's New London Inn on his way to visit Lord Mount EDGCUMBE. The 7th Dragoon Guards were drawn up as a guard of honour in front of the inn.
Sept 24th, The Grand Duke slept at the New London Inn on his return journey.
Oct 29th, A great fire broke out on the 25th on the premises of Mr FROOM, druggist, North St, the cellars being stored with turpentine and other inflammable materials. The flames extended nearly as far back as the Synagogue in Mary Arches St. By the exertions of the Mayor and civic officers, aided by the 7th Dragoon Guards the fire was got under. Owing to the absence of fire plugs there was great difficulty in obtaining an adequate supply of water for the engines.
Nov 12th, Samuel HOLMYARD and William DAVIS were sentenced to death at the City Quarter Sessions, the former for forging a £1 note of the City Bank, and the latter for uttering the same, are to be executed on the 13th on Magdalen Rd. "A temporary platform and drop are preparing to be erected on the spot where the gallows formerly stood" "As a proof that capital crimes are not frequent within the jurisdiction of this city, nearly 32 years have elapsed since the execution of a criminal took place. The last that suffered was a soldier names William FITZGERALD, belonging to the 38th Regiment of Foot, when quartered here, who was executed at Magdalen gallows on the 24th January 1787, for assaulting James RICHARDS late at night and robbing him of a handkerchief and 6s in money." [The execution of Samuel HOLMYARD and William DAVIS was the last at the Magdalen gallows which stood on the small square plot, now occupied as a depot for broken stone, adjoining the building lately erected for a skating-rink on the Magdalen Rd.]
Nov 19th, The Chamber took under consideration the propriety of providing a new market place, the holding of the market in High St, proving very inconvenient. The change which was much opposed, was not made for several years after this.
Nov 26th, The trustees of St John's Hospital passed a resolution removing Dr LEMPRIERS from the head-mastership of Exeter Grammar School. The number of pupils had diminished to 20, but the primary cause of dissatisfaction was the persistence of the Doctor in charging for day-boys more than the 6 guineas per annum allowed by the terms of his appointment. The Doctor published a pamphlet in his defence, and announced his intention to appeal to the Lord Chancellor.
1819
Jan 21st, A prospectus advertised of the Plymouth and Dartmoor Railroad from Plymouth to Dartmoor Prisons, length 22 miles, capital £45, 000 in £25 shares.
Death "on Wednesday 14th, at his apartments in Somers Town, after a lingering illness which confined him to his bed, in his 31st, 81st ? year, Dr John WOLCOT, the gentleman so well known in the literary world under the name of Peter PINDAR. The deceased was a native of Dodbrooke, Devon, had for many years enjoyed an annuity from certain booksellers, given in consideration of the copyright of his works."
March 25th, Mary WOODMAN, aged 30, executed on the 23rd at the County Gaol for the murder of her husband Charles WOODMAN by poison at Okehampton.
April 2nd, Samuel HELLINGS, for an attempt to poison his mother, John EVANS, for horse stealing, and John NORTHCOTT for cattle stealing were executed at the County Gaol.
A piece of plate in imitation of the famous Warwick Vase, presented by the citizens of Exeter to James BULLER Esq, their late member
. April 22nd, Trinity Church in course of removal by Messers CORNISH and Son, builders.
Southgate to be taken down in June "When the whole is accomplished it will constitute one of the finest and most beneficial improvements this city ever experienced."
May 6th, The Mayor issued a handbill warning against the practise of throwing water over persons in the streets of Exeter on Holy Thursday.
June 10th, The materials of Southgate advertised to be sold by CORNISH and Son.
Sir Robert GIFFORD, Solicitor-general appointed Attorney-general. Serjeant COPLEY [afterwards Lord Lyndhurst] M.P, for Ashburton, succeeded to the former appointment and was re-elected for Ashburton.
June 24th, A premium of £20 offered by the directors for designs for a new building for the West of England Insurance Company.
The first stone of Trinity Church laid by Mr S. F. MILFORD on the 24th, and on the same day the New City Prison at the foot of Northernhay was opened having been built in 12 months by R. CORNISH and Son. [Its site is now occupied by the Rougemont Hotel] Trinity Church was also designed and built by Messers CORNISH. Under the foundation stone was placed a copper plate containing the names of the layer of the stone, the rector, churchwardens and builders. The proceedings ended by a supper at the Valiant Soldier Inn, where toasts, sentiments, songs and gleas, "kept up the festivity till a late hour."
July 1st, Mr Joshua WILLIAMS having died, the business of the General Bank, will in future be carried on by the surviving partners, Messers Thomas JOSEPH, and George SPARKES. The latter lived at Sidmouth.
July 8th, J. BLACKMORE, publicly whipped on the 2nd from the Guildhall to the Star Inn [adjoining St John's Bow] for stealing soap from the premises of Mr FROOM during the late fire.
July 29th, The Commissioners of Improvement purchased off the West of England Insurance Company, the offices of the latter at the corner of High St and North St, for widening the latter thoroughfare.
Mr James GREEN, engineer of Exeter, and county surveyor, completed plans for a new road to Chudleigh, extending from the higher end of Alphington and proceeding by the way of Pramore, Kennford, and Haldon race course, to a junction in the old road in the town of Chudleigh [This road superseded the former road from Alphington via Shillingford, and passed near Haldon House. Mr GREEN'S plans also included other considerable diversions between Buckfastleigh and Marley, and at Bittaford Bridge, between the present Kingsbridge Rd and Ivybridge railway station. The total cost of these improvements was estimated at £30,000, apparently a very moderate calculation]
Aug 5th, A violent thunderstorm occurred in Exeter on the 4th. The market people holding stalls in the High St took refuge in the shops, and the voices of the counsel pleading in the Assize Court were rendered inaudible by the loud peals of thunder.
Aug 19th, The annual fair in the Bonhay revived after an intervals of 30 years.
Sept 16th, Mol's Coffee House in the Cathedral Yard adjoining St Martin's Church, advertised to be sold for the residue of a term of 40 years granted by the Dean and Chapter, and of which 29 years were un-expired. The premises were, as on former occasions described as "admirably calculated for business, and supported by a subscription from the most respectable inhabitants of the city and neighbourhood, who frequent the house for the purpose of perusing the daily papers."
At their meeting on the 13th, the Exeter Improvement Commissioners "resolved to take down the two old arches in St Martin's St and Catherine St. It is hoped the one at Broadgate will shortly share the same fate." [The latter beautiful example of medieval architecture might have been preserved and a greater improvement effected had the commissioners formed a wide opening to the Cathedral Yard opposite the Guildhall]
Oct 7th, The Duke of Wellington passed through Exeter on his way from Plymouth to London. On arriving at St John's Church, the populace took the horses from his carriage and drew it to Clench's New London Inn, where fresh horses were obtained for the next stage. The in was profusely decorated with laurels and flowers and "thousands lined up the streets all anxiously waiting to meet the arrival of England's Invincible Hero."
Oct 28th, The Devon County Club held their meeting at Bampfylde House under the presidency of Colonel PELL, seconded by the Hon Newton FELLOWES were passed in favour of the popular right of petition, with respect to which there was much excitement [This club was founded by the Whig Gentry in 1816, " for the propagation of the principles of the British Constitution and the maintenance of Civil and Religious Liberty"]
H.R.H, the Duke of Kent stayed for a night at the house of Mr Thomas TURNER [the site of which is now occupied by the Devon and Cornwall Bank] and the next morning proceeded to Dawlish, Teignmouth and Torquay. On his return journey the Duke dined with the Bishop and proceeded to Sidmouth.
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