Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 111 - X11
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1820
Jan 27th, The Duke and Duchess of Kent entered upon their residence at Woolbrook Glen, Sidmouth on the 24th December. The paper of the 6th January narrates a narrow escape of the Princess [now Queen] Victoria from the shot of a gun fired by a boy at some small birds. The shot broke the nursery window and passed near the head of the infant princess in her nurse's arms. Shortly afterwards the Duke was seized with his last illness and expired at Woolbrook on the 22nd January, only one week before the King his father. Mr LUSCOMBE surgeon of Exeter proceeded to Sidmouth to embalm the body previous to its removal to Windsor for interment.
Feb 3rd, King George the 111 died on the 27th Jan, and the accession of King George 1V was proclaimed at Exeter on the 2nd. A procession was formed of soldiers, sailors, charity children, beadles and blue boys, preceding the Herald, Mr John SMALE of the White Hose Inn, St Thomas, who was arrayed, "in a superb and appropriate dress and mounted on a fine grey charger" After him came the mace and sword-bearers, the Mayor and Chamber, the military closing the procession. The proclamation was made in an audible voice at six places where the procession halted for the purpose, first at the Guildhall, next at the bottom of Forse St, Hill, then at the bottom of North St, at the Serge Market in South St, then in the Cathedral Yard, and finally at the East Gate. In the afternoon six hogheads of strong beer and six of cider were dispensed by the Mayor and Chamber to enable the populace to drink the health of the King.
Trewman's Flying Post April 2nd, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 1V
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1820
Feb 17th, Died on the 8th, at his house in Russell Square, London, aged 65, Rt Hon Sir Vicary GIBBS, Knight, Lord Chief Justice of the Common Pleas. [This distinguished lawyer was a native of Exeter, and a member of the family to whose munificence we owe in later times some of the chief architectural ornaments of the city. The GIBBS family have been for centuries connected with Exeter, Topsham and Clyst St George, by residence and mercantile pursuits. Sir Vicary was the 2nd son of George Abraham GIBBS, who succeeded John PATCH, the elder as surgeon to the hospital in 1747. He was born in 1751 in a house near the Bishop's Palace, and in due time entered as a student at the Middle Temple, was called to the bar and soon became the leader of the Western Circuit. After receiving a silk gown he was appointed Chief Justice of Chester, and Recorder of Bristol, and in 1805 Solicitor General. He entered Parliament in 1807, as member for the University of Cambridge and was soon afterwards Knighted and appointed Attorney -General. In 1813 he became Judge of the Common Pleas, then Chief Baron of the Exchequer, and finally attained his highest official distinction as Chief Justice of the Common Pleas. Sir Vicary GIBBS married a daughter of the Earl of Seaforth, by whom he left an only daughter, Maria, who was married to Colonel PILKINGTON. An engraved likeness of Sir Vicary by S. W. REYNOLDS from a portrait by OWEN, is occasionally to be met with]
March 2nd, At this time the advertisement columns are much occupied with election addresses, consequent on the Dissolution of Parliament on the accession of a new King. Mr Edmund Pollexfen BASTARD, Lord Ebrington and Sir Thomas D. ACLAND Bart, were candidates for the county. After a 3 days poll ending on the 22nd March, the votes were, ACLAND, 2,546, BASTARD, 1,959, EBRINGTON, 1,793. After the election the two successful candidates were girt with swords, as Knights of the Shire, and "chaired" through the streets of Exeter in two cars decorated, according to custom with laurels and flags etc, while the Cathedral and parish bells were vigorously rung.
The election for Exeter took place on the 7th March, the Mayor, Mr Henry BLACKALL, proposed, and Mr Abraham KENNAWAY seconded, William COURTENAY Esq, the Recorder [afterwards Earl of Devon], who being prevented by illness from attending, was represented by his brother, Mr Thomas COURTENAY, the late M.P, for Totnes [Mayors were not expected to observe neutrality under the old corporate regime]. Mr Robert RUSSELL proposed and Mr VICARY seconded, Mr Robert William NEWMAN, afterwards the baronet of Mamhead, whilst a third candidate, Sir William Templer POLE, Bart, of Shute, was nominated by Mr Thomas TURNER. After a three days poll, the votes were COURTENAY 625, NEWMAN 532, and for POLE 278.
March 9th, In the midst of the turmoil of the election the Exeter Theatre was destroyed by fire on the 7th. It broke out between 2 and 3am, and before the engines arrived the roof fell in with a tremendous crash. The front of the building was saved, but the interior, which had lately been refitted and decorated at considerable cost was wholly destroyed. The proprietor suffered heavy loss, but the disaster fell with peculiar severity with the actors, who had already lost several weeks salary owing to the closing of the theatre after the deaths of the King and the Duke of Kent. A public subscription was opened for their relief. The performances were shortly afterwards carried on at the then new Subscription [now Public] Rooms, near the London Inn, until the building could be restored.
There were occasional references in advertisements to meetings of the Devon County Club [Whig] at Bampfylde House, which had been occupied by members of the POLTIMERE family down to the death in 1814 of Miss Georgina BAMPFYLDE. The club was founded in August 1816, "for the propagation of the Principles of the British Constitution and the Maintenance of Civil and Religious Liberty," The Duke of Bedford was president, Colonel PELL, vice-president, and the stewards included the names of CHICHESTER, GWYNNE, TUCKER, FORTESCUE, BAMPFYLDE, ARSCOTT, LAND, etc.
March 30th, An advertisement by Mrs COMMINS announces her entry into the occupation of "Mol's Coffee House."
April 6th, Thomas MUSGRAVE executed at the County Gaol on the 3rd for sheep stealing at Uffculme.
May 4th, Mr MCADAM, the author of the system of "Macadamising" is appointed surveyor of the Exeter Turnpike Roads. June 1st, A meeting of the parishioners of Allhallows, Goldsmith St, resolved on the propriety of taking down the parish church [which had not been used for many years] to form a better approach to the intended new market
June 15th, A coach advertised to start from New London Inn to Brighton occupying 2 days on the journey.
July 6th, A bill to provide new market place for the city occasioned much local discussion. At a public meeting over which Gilbert DYER, the well known bookseller, presided, Mr Thomas FLINDELL, the editor of the Western Luminary, contended that the removal of the market from the open High St would seriously depreciate property in that thoroughfare, and it was resolved to petition against the Bill. [The Bill became an Act on the 14th July, fell a dead letter. The Act under which the present markets were established was not passed till 12 years later]
July 20th, Mr James GREEN, engineer and County Surveyor, attended at Pocombe Bridge, to mark out the new line of road from thence to Taphouse, avoiding the steep hills of the old route by Okehampton St.
Aug 10th, The paper is printed in mourning columns for the death on the 6th of H.R.H, the Duchess of York.
Aug 17th, The removal of St Martin's Gate commenced.
James CRIBB, executed at the County Gaol on the 18th for forgery of bank notes.
Sept 14th, 9 houses near the Horse and Groom Inn, Heavitree, were burnt down on the 11th.
An advertisement invites tenders for the construction of the new turnpike road "on the south side of Dean Clapper, between the village of Dean Prior and the 4 and 5 milestones leading towards South Brent" [Clapper in Dartmoor phraseology is a bridge formed by flat hewn blocks of granite without arches]
Sept 21st, A grand fete took place on the 16th on Haytor Down to celebrate the completion of the granite railway from that place to the Stover Canal at Teigngrace. The work was constructed at his own cost by George TEMPLER, Esq, the owner of Stover Park, and the rail or tramway, which still remains consisting of blocks of granite laid end to end and having a half groove chiselled cut for the guidance of the waggon wheels, which were not flanged as the railway carriages now are. The course of the line is necessarily somewhat circuitous, but, considering that in its short length it had to attain an elevation of about 1,200 feet, the gradients are managed with much skill. On the festive occasion referred to there arrived from Bovey Tracey a long procession of carriages, waggons, and horses enlivened by bands of music, and decorated with flags and evergreens. Other places contributed their share of visitors, who partook of a collation provided by the bountiful host on Haytor. Among the company were Lord and Lady CLIFFORD, from Ugbrooke, Mr BASTARD, from Buckland, Sir Thomas Dyke ACLAND, Sir Henry CAREW came from Haccombe, and Sir Lawrence PALK from Haldon, besides many other county magnates from other parts. After a speech by Mr TEMPLER there ere high jinks and dances on the turf, "Never" writes our ecstatic reporter, "was Haytor''s graced with such blooming fair ones, nor did it ever before display so festive a scene" The granite used in the erection of the present London Bridge was brought from Haytor by this primitive railway, but it could not long compete successfully with the facilities for water carriage possessed by the granite merchants of Cornwall.
Oct 12th, The Devon and Exeter Female Penitentiary opened on the 7th.
Oct 19th, The new Subscription [now Public] Rooms opened in New London Inn Square on the site of the old Bristol Inn.
Oct 26th, Died on the 19th, after a few days illness of inflammation of the lungs, Gilbert DYER, aged 77, "a respectable and eminent bookseller of this city, he was possessed of great natural talents, general knowledge, and reading, and was the author of several ingenious works. He will be regretted by many as his connections were extensive, being universally known by the learned as well as by all the principal booksellers in Great Britain." [Gilbert DYER, familiarly known as Gibby DYER, a native of the hamlet of Dunstone in the parish of Widecombe-in-the-Moor, after assisting his father as schoolmaster at Moreton, was appointed master at the school at Tucker's Hall, Exeter in June 1767, with the modest stipend of £10 a year, and the use of the under hall for a school. During his 21 years tenure of this office he gained the esteem of the governors and the affection of the pupils. About the year 1788 he entered on business as a bookseller, in a shop opposite the Guildhall. Here he was very successful, his wonderful memory and knowledge of dates, prices and signs, enabling him to make many valuable purchases. Gilbert DYER'S catalogues were well known to collectors, and he also made for himself a name as an author of considerable erudition and research. The best known amongst his works was one of 295 pages, entitled, " A restoration of the ancient mode of bestowing names on the rivers, hills, valleys, plains and settlements of Britain" He also published in 1814 a "Commentary on Richard of Cirencester and Antoninus, Itineraries of Britain" His son Gilbert inherited, with the business, the estimable qualities of his parent]
Nov 16th, The trial of Queen Caroline and the failure of the Bill of Pains and Penalties, excited Exeter, as elsewhere, considerable party feeling. Her partisans in Exeter, having put forth an invitation to the citizens to illuminate their houses on her acquittal, the Mayor issued a counter notice that the civil power would protect those who abstained from illuminating. On the evening of the 16th, about half the houses in High St were lit up, the rest remaining dark. In the other streets the illuminations were more general, whilst the private residents of the higher class declined to join in the demonstration. There was a bonfire in the Cathedral Yard and a great crowd in the streets, but none of the anticipated disturbances occurred. There were similar demonstrations in many other places in the country.
Dec 28th, The Devonshire Bank [William CANN and SEARLE] suspended payment on the 20th in consequence of a run occasioned by adverse reports. They announced their expectation of meeting all claims fully, but this was not realised. The bank was situated in High St, and the premises extended back to Theatre Lane, now called Waterbeer St.
William COURTENAY Esq M.P, [afterwards Earl of Devon] resigns the Recordership of Exeter, and is succeeded by Thomas STEVENS Esq on the 29th.
Dec 30th, The freedom of Exeter presented to Sir Robert GIFFORD, Attorney-General, a native of this city.
1821
The newly appointed Bishop Dr William CAREY, made his public entry into Exeter. He was met at Summerland Place by the master and scholars of the Episcopal Charity Schools, and addressed in a speech read by Robert GARLAND, the oldest boy, entreating his lordship's "blessing and protection" The Bishop's carriage halted at the house of the Rev C. H. COLLYNS, Master of the Grammar School, at Eastgate, where the Mayor, Corporation and Trades Companies awaited his arrival. Here the Bishop took his place at the Mayor's left hand, and the procession moved on foot down the High St. At Broad Gate the Cathedral officials joined, and after welcoming the new Bishop proceeded to the Cathedral, where the clerical portion of the procession went through the cloisters to the Chapter House, and the Bishop having here been robed and introduced to the Cathedral dignitaries, returned to the west door, and, preceded by the choir, was conducted through the nave to the Episcopal Throne.
Jan 11th, The Exeter Theatre, having been rebuilt with extraordinary expedition, was opened on the 10th, The manager [BENNETT] read a poetical address written by one of the actors named WILDE, who was also the author of a poem entitled, "The Hospital" written in gratitude for benefits received in that institution. After referring to the fire which had destroyed "our hopes, our property, all but our walls" the poet alludes to the rebuilding as "A three months work" and
"Thus from the ashes of our former pile
Another springs, surpassed not in this isle;
Which, as a new year's gift, we now present
To you, whose candid features smile content."
Jan 18th, The new Trinity Church, South St, consecrated on the 12th by Bishop CAREY.
Jan 25th, The directors of the West of England Insurance Company advertise the removal of their office from the house at the corner of North and High Streets to the newly erected house [late TOZER and GREEN'S premises] nearly opposite the Half Moon Inn, High St. [The old office was immediately afterwards taken down to widen North St. The new building here described did not include the present handsome front, which was not erected until several more years had elapsed]
Feb 22nd, A meeting held at Teignmouth to consider the proposal to erect the present bridge, extending across the river Shaldon. The erection of this structure was commenced a few months later.
March 15th, It was announced that some gentlemen had purchased a site for Public Baths on Southernhay, adjoining Dix's Field. [These baths stood on the site of the present Congregational Church in Southernhay, and were opened on the 3rd December 1821. The classical architectural design had some merit, but was ruined, as in too many Exonian buildings of the same era, by being carried out in stucco, or rather plaster, which had become extremely shabby for some years before the removal of the structure.
Messers CORNISH and Sons, advertise the sale by auction of the materials of the old Treasury House in the Cathedral Yard [The mark left by the roof of this building which had for many years been occupied as a ladies school, is still visible against the North Tower of the Cathedral]
April 12th, The county and city were much agitated at this time by the proposals to remove the remaining political disabilities of Roman Catholics, and public meetings were held to petition against any further concessions. The Exeter meeting was addressed at considerable length by the late Mr Ralph BARNES, and other speakers, who anticipated disastrous effects from the proposed measure.
May 5th, Death of Napoleon Bonaparte at St Helena
. May 6th, Two young brothers named James and William BOWDEN were executed at the County drop for burglary and John BAGWELL for highway robbery.
May 10th, The singular octagonal church at West Teignmouth was opened on Sunday the 6th.
May 31st, Mr Thomas FLINDELL editor of the Western Luminary, having been convicted of libel on Queen Caroline, was sentenced to 8 months imprisonment in Exeter County Gaol, and to find securities to keep the peace for 3 years. A subscription was opened to reimburse the expenses of the trial, Alderman PHILLIPS being treasurer of the fund.
May 31st, The parishioners of East Teignmouth resolve to erect a new church.
July 5th, An advertisement announces the public exhibition of a curious clock. This ingenious piece of mechanism was constructed by one LOVELACE of Exeter, early in the last century. It was 10 feet high and 5 feet wide, and contained a clock, striking the hours, quarters etc, a perpetual almanac, having an exclusive movement for leap years, and requiring regulation only once in a century. It also comprised an Orrery, an organ playing several tunes, a belfry, with six figures ringing the changes on as many bells, and other curious mechanism. [It became the property of the late Mr Charles BRUTTON, solicitor, and stood in the dining-room of the house in Northernhay Place used as Judges lodgings. It is now, we believe in the South Kensington Museum.]
The census of 1821 showed the population of Exeter to be 23,479, in 1811 it was 18,896. The return did not include St Leonard and St Thomas. The population of Devon had increased in the same decade from 383,308 to 433, 918.
July 26th, The coronation of George 1V, which took place on the 19th, was celebrated by balls, dinners, and other festivities in Exeter, and many other places throughout the country.
Aug 2nd William WEBBER, Mayor of the Manor and Fee of St Sidwell's, advertised that, in consequence of accidents and inconveniences arising from the contraction of Southernhay by the erection of new buildings, the Horse Fair would be removed from thence to the higher part of St Sidwell St.
A destructive fire broke out in some thatched houses in East St, Newton Abbot on Sunday the 5th, whilst the inhabitants were at church. 10 houses were burnt down.
Aug 16th, Death of Queen Caroline on the 7th, after a few days illness, and violent scenes at the forcible removal of the body by order of the Government against the will of her executors. The King is on his way to Ireland and the royal progress and festivities continued without check.
Aug 30th, The freedom of Plymouth presented to Bishop CAREY by the Recorder, Sir William ELFORD.
Oct 11th, A sudden storm on the northern coast of Devon occasioned the loss of upwards of 40, Clovelly fishing boats and the lives of 35 men, for whose bereaved and destitute families liberal subscriptions were raised in various places throughout the country.
Nov 1st, It is mentioned as a remarkable instance of cheapness that in Bideford market legs of mutton were sold last week at two and a half pence per lb, fat ducks two shillings per couple, fowls twenty pence per couple and geese at four-pence per lb. In Exeter beef which last year sold at five-pence, is now three and a half pence per lb, mutton from two and a half to three and a half pence.
Nov 15th, Death at his residence, Franklyn St, St Thomas, of John JONES Esq, F.S.A, in his 54th year. Mr JONES was educated for the bar, "but uninspiring disposition led him to prefer a less conspicuous department of the law" [In plain words he practised as a solicitor in Exeter. He was a man of high character and attainments and considerable antiquarian research, and was the author of a memoir in the Archeologia on the ancient constitution and discipline of Exeter Cathedral. Sir Robert GIFFORD, afterwards Lord GIFFORD, was an articled clerk in the office, which Mr JONES left the bar to join in Exeter.
Disappointed of his hopes to become a partner with Mr JONES, young GIFFORD, in his turn, quitted the lower for the higher branch of the profession, and at the time of his former master's death had already attained the position of Attorney-
General. Mr JONES was the son of Thomas JONES [who built the present Assize Courts in the Castle Yard] by his wife, Mary, daughter of Philip STOWEY Esq, of Kenbury, and a cousin of the late Mr Pitman JONES of St Loyes, Heavitree, whose antiquarian labours in conjunction with the late Rev Dr OLIVER, are so well known to all who follow their pursuits]
Dec 13th, The Church of Allhallows, Goldsmith St, in stead of being taken down as resolved by the parishioners in June last year, was re-opened for divine worship on Sunday the 9th, by the Rev Matthew VICARS, who was instituted to the rectory on the presentation of the King, on whom it had devolved by reason of lapse.
A proposal having been made to re-open the parish church of St Kerian, which had also been closed for a long period, the parishioners request the Bishop to receive a deputation of their number who are prepared to pint out "the great and unnecessary burden" that would be laid on the inhabitants if the proposal were adopted, the church being much out of repair and the whole of the property in the parish being owned by no more than 25 persons [Last year 1878, witnessed the demolition of this church]
Dec 27th, Fire plugs about to be laid down in the streets of Exeter by Mr James GOLSWORTHY, the owner of the Water Works, who offered at gratis supply for the extinction of fires. Several insurance companies contributed to the cost of the work, the donation of the West of England Company of £200, being by far the largest.
Failure of the East Devon Bank at Honiton, Messers James TOWNSEND and George BROOKE, partners.
Trewman's Flying Post April 9th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 1V
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1822
Jan 3rd, A violent storm from the south east raged on the 28th, ult, along the south Devon coast. At high water when the gale was most violent, the waves dashed over the river wall at Starcross [where the railway now runs] destroying three cob houses and materially damaging several others to the heavy loss of many poor persons, for whose relief funds were liberally subscribed. There were shipwrecks at Plymouth and elsewhere.
Jan 10th, "In consequence of the great inconvenience experienced by the ladies in procuring sedan-chairs to return from the last subscription concert, the Mayor and Chamber have determined to make regulations and settle the rate of fares to be taken in future."
Jan 17th, Drs Frederick GRANGER, Richard Lewin PENNELL, James T. B. WATT, Patrick MILLER and Adam NEALE are candidates for the post of physician to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, void by the death of Dr DANIELL. Dr GRANGER was appointed. [Dr George DANIELL of Bedford Crescent [now Circus], had been for many years a leading medical practitioner in Exeter. He was, at his death on the 19th January, senior physician to the Hospital and was also one of the medical staff of the Lunatic Asylum, which he joined in founding in St Thomas. Dr DANIELL married at St Lawrence, Exeter, on the 25th September 1788, Harriet, 5th daughter of Sir Richard Warwick BAMPFYLDE of Portimore and of Bampfylde House, Exeter [where Mrs DANIELL was born in 1761] and by her had a family now represented by George W. B. DANIELL Esq, of Kenbury. Of Dr DANIELL'S daughters one became the wife of the late Mark KENNAWAY, Esq in 1822, and another was married to Charles, only son of the late Richard EALES Esq, who for so long a period filled the office of Clerk of the Peace for Devon]
Jan 24th, The papers abound at this time to the prevalence of agricultural distress. At a meeting of the country gentlemen held at the Hotel [now Clarence] on the 18th, a resolution was agreed to go for presenting to the Sheriff a requisition for a country meeting on the subject. This meeting was held on the 31st under the presidency of Sir John DAVIE, the Sheriff. Amongst the speakers were Earl FORTESCUE, Lord ROLLE, the Hon Newton FELLOWES, R. W. NEWMAN, Esq, M.P, and Lord CLIFFORD. The meeting resolved to petition parliament for relief from the existing heavy burden of taxation. There was considerable dissention and the Hon Newton FELLOWES denounced the defective state of the representation as a main cause of the country's difficulties, whilst Dr TUCKER of Ashburton, in a still more forcible address, attributed them also to the expensive wars in which the country had been involved.
March 14th, The matrix of an oval silver seal of Thomas DENE, last prior of St Jame's Priory on the Exe, opposite Salmon Pool, was discovered amongst some rubbish on Southernhay. It passed into the possession of the late John CAREW Esq, of Knightleys, Exeter, and had attached to it a silver chain about one foot long. [this seal is referred to in the account of the Priory in Dr OLIVER'S Monasticon, which also contains an engraved representation. Where is it now?]
March 28th, Execution on the 25th, at the County Gaol of Philip CHAPPELL, aged 19, for the murder of his sweetheart, Mary STEVENS, on Castle Hill, Torrington. A whole column is devoted to the report of the trial, which excited great interest. The murderer finally confessed his guilt. 21 other prisoners were capitally convicted at the same Assizes were all reprieved but one, named John PERRY, who had been found guilty to setting fire to his house, at Ottery, and who was left for execution on Easter Monday.
On the 29th two men named FEAR and TOUT, were flogged through the city for enlisting in the Marines before the expiration of their service as Militiamen.
April 4th, The French vessel St Jaques of 50 tons was seized by the Custom House Officers at Brixham, with a cargo of foreign spirits. The crew of 16 men were committed to the County Gaol, in default of payment of a fine of £100 each. [Smuggling adventures are frequently referred to at this period]
April 11th, KEAN appears at Exeter Theatre, for 6 nights as Richard 111.
One of the frequent coach accidents of this period occurred at Totnes on the 4th, when the " Patent Safety Coach", Royal Eclipse, was upset and the coachman and several passengers were bruised.
May 9th, Death at the aged of 92 of Sir Isaac HEARD, Garter King at Arms, at the Herald’s Cottage on the 29th ult. He was born at Ottery St Mary on the 10th December, 1730.and was educated at Honiton Grammar School. After serving as a volunteer in the Navy from the age of 15, till 1751, he engaged in mercantile pursuits, principally in Span and America, for 8 years. On the 5th December 1759, he was appointed Bluemantle Pursuivant of Arms, and finally, on the 1st May 1784, was created Garter Principal King of Arms. Sir Isaac was Knighted by George 111, and he officiated at the two last coronations and at the interment of a prince or princess in a succession of six generations of the House of Brunswick. He left no issue.
May 16th, A city meeting held on the 14th at the Guildhall [the Mayor presiding] to promote a subscription for the relief of the severe distress prevailing in Ireland. Mr Samuel Frederick MILFORD, as usual on such occasions was the leading speaker.
May 23rd, This paper refers to the recent painting at Rome by BROCKEDON, the Devonshire artist, of his picture of, The Vision of the chariots of the Prophet Zachariah. Cardinal Gonsalvi, at the instance of Canova, the sculptor, permitted its public exhibition at the Pantheon, the first time this honour had been granted to an Englishman.
June 20th, Henry MITCHELL was publicly whipped from the Guildhall to St John's Bow, for stealing two brass candlesticks from the house of a poor man at St Sidwells.
North Devon was visited by a tremendous storm of wind, which uprooted trees in every direction and drove the terrified inhabitants from their dwellings to seek safety in the fields.
July 11th, At a meeting on the 8th a committee of the Exeter Improvement Commissioners resolved by 16 to 6, to take down Broadgate and two adjoining houses. This recommendation was considered at a fully attended meeting of the Commissioners on the 11th November, following, and after protracted discussion was approved by a majority of 25 to 9. The Dean and Chapter gave up a house at the corner of the proposed opening and contributed £200. The removal of the gate was begun in July 1823, and the work was not accomplished without remonstrance against it as an act of vandalism. [The destruction of this beautiful example of medieval architecture is much to be regretted. A broad opening opposite the Guildhall would have been far preferable in every respect]
July 18th, A meeting held at Plymouth on the 8th to form a company "to light that town with oil gas, the ultimate expense of which is £4,000" [The oil gas company first lighted the eastern part of Plymouth in 1823. Two years later the United Gas Company established a branch in Plymouth and supplied gas made from coal, and this absorbed the oil gas company in 1832, but in turn was absorbed by the present company in 1848. The cost of gas in Plymouth has been gradually reduced to 2s-6d, per 1,000 feet, being the cheapest in the Kingdom]
The Company of Apothecaries in London advertise they had "induced some respectable medical gentlemen of Exeter and Devon [following the example of other cities of the United Kingdom] to associate for the purpose of forming the establishment to be called, "The Exeter Apothecaries Hall" for the supply of pure and unadulterated drugs and medicines, at 46 High St. [This house still bears the title and still presents its ancient gabled front to the street]
Aug 29th, "It is in contemplation to establish two steam vessels to trade from this port to London a speculation which there is every reason to expect will prove successful."
Sept 25th, "On Friday morning a man named Samuel GILES was flogged at the cart's tail from our Guildhall to St John's Hospital and back, to which and to 3 months imprisonment he was sentenced at the Quarter Sessions for picking the pocket of a fellow labourer." [GILES does not appear to have been cured of his evil ways by this process, for he was no sooner released from prison than he was again committed on a charge of breaking into and robbing a poulterer's shop in Cathedral St]
Oct 17th, A letter from Boulogne, dated 11th October refers to the arrest of the late Sir John BOWRING at Calais on the 5th, as he was embarking for England. He was suspected of carrying letters and despatches for the revolutionists in England. He was sent to Boulogne under an escort with his papers forwarded to Paris for examination. Mr BOWRING, who protested strongly against the legality of his detention, was the bearer of despatches from the Ambassador of Portugal in Paris to the Portuguese Ambassador in London. On the 24th Mr BOWRING appealed to Mr CANNING in a letter dated from Boulogne Prison, commencing :- "After thirteen days of solitary and severe confinement, I am permitted to address you. I have been shut out from all communication with my Government, with any lawyer or physician, with my family or fiends. During this imprisonment an attempt was made to remove me to Paris by a warrant from the judges there. I resisted, and resisted successfully under the protection of one of the articles of the Code de Procedure, which there was every disposition to violate."
Oct 31st, The tower of St Sidwell's Church in course of completion. The spire was finished in March following.
Nov 28th, Death at Totnes on the 24th, of John Foster BARHAM Esq, late of Exeter, an eminent theologian and author.
"On Sunday morning, 24th, after the sermon at the parish Church of Allhallows, Goldsmith St, in this city, Rev Matthew VICARS gave notice that he should then proceed to read the New Marriage Act, upon which announcement the whole congregation, with the exception of the clerk and sexton, immediately quitted. [This was not a solitary instance of the kind, the Act elicited much party feeling.
1823
Jan 16th, Mamhead House and 3,700 acres of land, then belonging to the Earl of Lisburne, were advertised for sale by auction by Mr George ROBINS, so well known at this time for the florid terms in which he described the properties entrusted to him for sale. Mamhead was purchased by Mr Robert William NEWMAN, then M. P, for Exeter, and afterwards created Baronet. The mansion was then described in the occupation of the Right Hon General Sir George HEWITT, C.C.B.
KEAN acts Macbeth at the Exeter Theatre.
Jan 23rd, A heavy fall of snow was succeeded by a heavy frost during which the thermometer at the Devon and Exeter Institution fell to thirteen degrees. There was skating on the Exe. Travelling was much impeded and the snow is stated to have accumulated to a depth of from 12 to 17 feet between Bridestown and Launceston, but the roads eastward of Exeter was comparatively free. The weather changed a few days later. "The eclipse of the moon on Monday was succeeded by a continued fall of rain and a rapid thaw." inundating St Thomas and the lower parts of Exeter.
Trewman's Flying Post April 16th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 1V
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1823
Jan 23rd, Orders given for the erection of a treadmill at the new City Prison.
Feb 6th, A new organ, erected by Brooking of Exeter, was "opened" on the 2nd at St Paul's Church, Mr MOXHAY was the performer.
April 10th, John BOLT was executed at the County Gaol on the 4th for attempting to murder Jane JUSLAND at Lifton Park.
April 17th, "The Subscription Coaches" advertised to perform the journey from Exeter to London in 22 hours and from Exeter to Plymouth in 7 hours. The former journey had hitherto occupied 36 hours and the latter 12 hours" A gentleman can now dine with his family in town at 5 o' clock on Monday and with his friends in Exeter at 4 0' clock on Tuesday, with whom he might spend 2 hours and be back again at his own table in town at 5 0' clock on Wednesday. This it is hoped the public will consider quite expeditious enough for such a journey, and the proprietors are satisfied that, looking to the safety and comfort of the passengers, it cannot be performed in less time"
A County meeting assembled on the 11th at the Castle of Exeter, agreed to petition Parliament for a reform of the representation. Lord EBRINGTON presided and amongst the others, the following resolution was passed on the motion of Dr TUCKER of Ashburton, seconded by the Rev John Pike JONES, of North Bovey :- "That the refusal of the High Sheriff to convene a County Meeting at the request of 626 freeholders is highly unconstitutional and reflects discredit on his conduct, which it will be difficult for him to remove."
"Some spirited individuals at Darrtmouth are about to establish a steam-packet on the river Dart."
April 24th, This paper records the death on the 19th, of Sir Charles W. BAMPFYLDE Bart, of Poltimore at his house in Montague Square, London, in his 71st year. From the London papers of this date it appears he was shot on the 9th, by a man, near his own house by a man named Joseph MARLEY, in broad daylight, but was enabled to reach home, where he lingered several days. The assassin after discharging one pistol at his victim, fired another into his own mouth and instantly fell dead on the pavement. Sir Charles was the 5th baronet and the grandfather of the present Lord Poltimore.
Cabriolets [now called cabs] drawn by one horse, established in London, on the King's birthday, at fares one third lower than those of hackney coaches.
May 22nd, Four of the houses built at Pennsylvania Terrace, by the late Mr Joseph SPARKES, of the General Bank, were in course of erection. [Mr SPARKES a member of the Society of Friends, adopted the name of Pennsylvania, from the province established by his celebrated co-religionist, William PENN, in the United States. It was only of late years that the name was applied to the district above Hill's Court.]
May 29th, John Bampfylde DANIELL, M.B, son of the late Dr DANIELL, elected a physician of Exeter Dispensary
July 17th, The Bude Harbour and Canal were opened on the 8th with great festivity. Earl Stanhope was a principal promoter of the undertaking, which was carried under the direction of Mr James GREEN, civil engineer, of Exeter. This city provided a large portion of the required capital, and Mr John BLACKMORE, merchant, who lived in the house on Fore St, Hill, now the residence of Mr Thomas LATIMER, of the Western Times, was the first to launch barges, and commenced traffic of coal, manure, etc, on the Canal.
July 24th, The Lammas Horse Fair, hitherto held at the upper part of Southernhay, is now removed to the Bonhay.
July 31st, John RADFORD, alias BRIGHT, aged 24,, executed for the murder of Sarah DOWN, at East Worlington.
Aug 21st, Death of Tommy OSBORNE, a noted itinerant bookseller of Exeter.
Sept 4th, Trew's Weir Mills are being fitted up as a lace factory by a Nottingham manufacturer.
The newly built steam packet, "Sir Francis Drake", commences running between Plymouth and Portsmouth [This well known vessel had a long career, and we believe has only ceased to ply between the last two years]
The furniture and effects at Powderham Castle advertised to be sold at auction.
Sept 25th, Great festivities at Tiverton on the return of Mr John HEATHCOAT, the proprietor of the lace factory there, after a years absence in France.
Oct 2nd, Festive opening of the Plymouth and Dartmoor Railway. A public breakfast given on the occasion by Sir Thomas TWRWHITT at his wharf on Roborough Down. " A long file of cars, partly laden with granite, and partly with the stewards and other individuals, accompanied by the band and ornamented with flags, after the breakfast, set off for Plymouth, where they were heartily greeted by the buzzas of a large concourse of people." Fifty gentlemen afterwards dined together at the Royal Hotel.
Oct 9th, The new weir at Totnes marshes carried away by a flood.
Oct 16th, "Hackney coaches were established in this city for the accommodation of the public. Four were started yesterday. [They were set up by Mr Humphrey STARK, chiefly, we believe, through the instrumentality of Mr Joseph SPARKES of the General Bank]
Oct 23rd, The new church of East Teignmouth consecrated by the Bishop on the 22nd. Mr Andrew PATEY was the architect, the altar screen was designed and executed by Mr John KENDALL of Exeter, and an altar piece representing the Saviour crowned with thorns, was the work of Mr John KING, an artist who painted many portraits of Exeter citizens about this time.
Dec 25th, MACREADY appears as Virginius, Hamlet and Macbeth at the Exeter Theatre.
1824
Jan 1st, The London Gazette of the 27th ult, announced by the King's command, the town of Plymouth Dock should from this date been known as Devonport. The letter of the Home Secretary announcing the change was read at a meeting held at the Town Hall, Dock, on the 26th ult, amidst a scene of great enthusiasm. The resolutions passed on the occasion are advertised in this newspaper. They, "acknowledge with the deepest gratitude the great condescension of His most gracious Majesty in entertaining and complying with the prayer of their petition" and thanked Sir Francis OMMANEY and others who had been instrumental in procuring the change. New Year's Day was devoted to festivities, processions, and dinners. [Old fashioned people, especially those living in Plymouth, persisted for many years after in using the old name of Dock in conversation, but we presume the practise has become extinct with the generation, familiar with the name from their youth]
Jan 8th, Robert SOUTHEY, poet laureate, visits some of his friends in Devonshire.
The new road from Dawlish to Teignmouth in a state of forwardness.
Jan 15th, The scheme of a bridge between Teignmouth and Shaldon having been revived, Lord Exmouth, and Mr Serjeant William Mackworth PRAED advertise their dissent.
Jan 29th, Sir Robert GIFFORD, Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, sworn on the 19th a member of the Privy Council and created Baron GIFFORD, of St Leonard, near Exeter.
Feb 12th, A correspondent "Civis" congratulates the citizens on the late extensive improvements "See the restoration of our Cathedral, the buildings in Southernhay and Northernhay, our Institution, the widening of North St, our improved roads, and to the great credit of our native chemist Mr PHILLIPS, our gas lights are superior to all in brilliancy and purity. But after all is said, there is one point still deplorably neglected, the want of water." The writer proceeds to point out that an abundant supply may probably be obtained on the Rollestone Estate at Marypole Head. In the next paper "A renter of the Exe water" expresses his opinion that the present supply from Mr GOLSWORTHY'S Works is perfectly satisfactory.
March 11th, The election of a member for Barnstable took place on the 8th, and after two days polling the votes were for Frederick HODGSON, 181, for NOLAN [the late member] 153, Alderman ATKINS of London 115, HODGSON declared elected.
Preparations in progress for the erection of 30 houses in "Gibbon's Fields" Plymouth. In clearing the site part of the old town wall had to be removed, and in doing this a number of human bones were discovered. [Gibbon St now stands on part of the site of Gibbon's Fields, which, in the last century where much resorted to for evening strolls. They lay to the north of Charles Church. The old town wall, of which portions still remain, crossed Gibbon's St, and bones have frequently been found in the line of the old fortifications.
March 25th, At an influential public meeting at Barnstable on the 19th, Earl Fortescue in the chair, it was resolved to establish an Infirmary for the north of Devon in that town. The donations amounted in July following to £2,039, and the annual subscriptions to £436, it was resolved to erect an infirmary on a small scale. The foundation stone was laid with much ceremony on the 5th January following, and there was a public dinner and ball for the occasion.
John Henry NORTH Esq, of Merrion Square, Dublin, elected M.P, for Plympton, in the room of Ronald George MACDONALD Esq.
Failure of the "Dartmouth General Bank" under the firm of HINE, HOLDSWORTH and Co.
"On Wednesday evening 17th, as the Bristol and Bath coach was passing under the archway of Broadgate, Exeter, it ran against the wall, and by the shock the splinter bar was broken, and the horses ran away with it and the pole to the Hotel [Clarence], leaving the coach under the gateway, the driver and guard were thrown off their seats and slightly injured, but none of the passengers were hurt. The frequent instances of danger which occur at Broadgate certainly call aloud for its speedy removal."
On the arrival of Mr Justice BURROUGH and Mr Serjeant BOSANQUET [who acted for Mr Justice RICHARDSON, absent at Malta on account of his health] to hold the Lent Assizes, they were met at Heavitree by the High Sheriff, Benjamin Bowden DICKINSON Esq, with a cavalcade of unusual splendour.
The Royal Assent given to Bills for improving the roads from Exeter to Bittaford, near Ivybridge, and also those of Totnes and Bridgetown, and for re-building the Totnes Bridge. Tenders for erecting the latter were invited by advertisement a few weeks later, and in September following the trustees arranged with Mr James GREEN, C.E, of Exeter, for the erection of the present handsome structure.
April 8th, Robert Lord GIFFORD appointed Master of the Rolls, in room of Sir Thomas PLUMER, deceased.
"A new Light Coach" advertised to perform the journey from Barnstable [through Exeter] to London in 26 hours.
The newly fitted up Meeting House in Musgrave's Alley, opened under Mr CARNE [Formerly the High School, its site is now occupied by the work-rooms of Mrs J. T. TUCKER and Sons]
Trewman's Flying Post April 23rd, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 1V
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1824
April 19th, An advertisement invites tenders for the erection of a column at Devon port to commemorate the change in the name of the town. Mr RICKARD, builder of Devonport contracted to build the column for £2,395. The foundation stone was laid on the 12th August, the King's birthday, in a spot near the old windmill, by Mr R. RODD, the Town Clerk of Devonport. The column was completed in May 1827, at a cost of £3,000.
Lord BYRON died at Missolonghie in Greece on the 19th.
May 13th, Barnstable expected to be lighted with gas next winter and the streets paved for four passengers under the new Local Improvement Act.
May 20th, The editor congratulates the citizens on the completion "of that elegant range of buildings Southernhay-place" and also on the plans of erecting the Swiss Cottages on the Pennsylvania Rd. He thinks that, "with Pennsylvania, York Buildings, and the new houses at Hill's Court, our northern boundary appears likely soon to present the same handsome appearance which has for some time characterized our eastern"
June 3rd, William Webb FOLLETT Esq [afterwards knighted an M.P, for Exeter] of the Inner Temple, was called to the bar on the 28th ult.
H.R.H, the Duke of Clarence [afterwards William 1V] after detention in Torbay by contrary winds arrived at Plymouth on the 27th ult, the yacht "Royal Sovereign" having been towed by the "Cambria" steamer. About four miles from the Eddystone the Duke embarked in the steamer and visited the lighthouse. Having re-embarked in the yacht, which again was taken in tow by the little "Cambria", he landed at Mount Wise. On the 28th he visited the port and breakwater and dined at the Royal Hotel with the Port Admiral Sir James SAUMAREZ, and the following days were devoted to reviews, dinners, and inspection of the Citadel and Government establishments. The Duke left Plymouth on the 4th on board the "Royal Sovereign", which was towed out to sea by the Cambria and cast off about 15 miles from land. Above 120 royal salutes of 21 guns were each fired from the ships and batteries during H.R.H'S stay.
June 10th, William Henry TRANT, Esq, of London, elected, M.P, for Okehampton in the room of Lord DUNALLY, who had accepted the Chiltern Hundreds.
Brockedon, the historical painter, presented his picture of "Christ in the Garden of Gethsemane" as an altar piece to the parish church of Dartington.
June 24th, A new organ erected in the church of St Edmund on the Bridge.
July 1st, "We understand that Broadgate will certainly be taken down in a few months, and we congratulate our fellow citizens on the certainty of a modern and handsome entrance into the Cathedral-yard being effected"
July 15th, The advertisements of lotteries, which until recently had been numerous, are now scarce. One appears in this paper, in which prizes are offered varying from £42 of £40 to two of £20,000 each.
July 30th, Driving off the first pile of the new bridge over the Lairs near Plymouth.
Sept 1st, Bedford Crescent is about to be formed into a circus by the erection of houses on the south side.
Sept 9th, "A most magnificent church is now building at Dawlish, of much bigger dimensions than the old one"
The freedom of Exeter, with a congratulatory address presented to Viscount SIDMOUTH, who was visiting the Bishop at his palace.
Mr GRAHAM ascended from the Castle-yard in his balloon on the 7th, taking with him Mr Robert CULLUM Jnr, printer "The ascent was fine and grand in the extreme, and while life last will not be forgotten by those who were fortunate enough to see it" The unusual sight drew thousands of excited witnesses from the city and neighbourhood. The aeronauts reported that they had attained a height of 2 miles and enjoyed a view extending over Devonshire, Bristol and the English Channels, the cities of Bristol, Bath and Wells, and other places in the adjoining counties. "The whole country seemed perfectly flat like a military map" After a voyage of an hour and ten minutes, they descended without damage to the balloon or themselves, a North Petherton, near Bridgewater, in the grounds of Henry COLE Esq, by whom they were kindly entertained. On reaching Taunton the delighted townsmen insisted on taking the horses from their carriage and drawing them in triumph through the place. At Wellington they were greeted with peels from the church bells and enthusiastic cheers from the inhabitants, whilst Cullompton received them with bands of music. Finally at 2.30am, they reached Exeter and found a large party assembled to welcome them at Congdon's Hotel [By a strange coincidence our obituary column in this day records the death of Mr CULLUM whose youthful adventure is here described]
Sept 16th, A meeting held at Plymouth on the 9th [Earl Morley, presiding] resolved on the erection of the Public Baths, the capital to be £13,000 in £25 shares. Mr FOULSTONE was appointed the architect, and guaranteed to find a contractor to execute the designs for this amount.
The Commissioners of Improvement announce their intention to macadamise Paul and Palace Streets.
A new church consecrated by the Bishop of Brigham on the 9th.
Sept 23rd, Commencement of Teignmouth and Sheldon Bridge, the foundation stone being laid on the 20th by William LANGMEAD Esq. It consisted of a large block of granite, presented by George TEMPLER Esq, of Stover, the chairman of the committee. The ceremony was witnessed by a great number of people, and the festivities of the day ended with a dinner at Cochran’s Hotel. Amongst other improvements at Teignmouth the erection of Public Rooms on the Den from designs by Mr Andrew PATSY, architect, is about to be commenced.
Sept 30th, Pipes are being laid for the introduction of gas at Devonport.
Oct 7th, On the 8th April last Lieutenant GOLDSMITH, an officer commanding a revenue cutter, cruising in search of smugglers on the Cornish coast, landed with several of his men at St Kevans, and after several efforts, succeeded in displacing the famous Logan Rock near Land's End, and thus destroying it's "logging" action. This mischievous manifestation of stupidity and folly naturally aroused great indignation, and the public insisted on attempts at restoration. Lieutenant GOLDSMITH, "with a zeal truly characteristic of the British tar in redeeming past errors, commenced his operations on Tuesday last with about thirty able seamen, by landing the requisite apparatus from boats beneath the cliff" [The "operations" were partially successful, but the movement of the stone is said to be much less easily accomplished than before]
Oct 21st, The new church [or rather chapel of ease] at Exmouth, erected by Lord ROLLE at a cost of nearly £12,000, was consecrated by Bishop CAREY on the 14th.
Oct 28th, A densely crowded meeting was held at the Guildhall under the presidency of the Mayor, with reference to the proposed application for an Act to remove the markets from the open High St, to a more eligible site. A resolution of approval moved by Mr J. D. CABORN, who admitted the nuisance caused by the obstruction of the roadway, but contended that this might be obviated by a better arrangement of the stalls, whilst the question of shelter for the market people and their customers might be settled by the use of umbrellas. He also strongly condemned the measure on the ground of its expense to the city. The tradesmen of Fore St appear to have been very much averse to the proposal, fearing injury to their business.
Nov 11th, A public dinner took place at the Dolphin Inn, Honiton, to commemorate the opening of the new market house replacing the old shambles.
Notice of application to Parliament for a bill authorising the construction of a canal from Seaton to Bridgewater, to connect the English and Bristol channels.
Nov 18th, Death on the 12th of Paul MICHEAU, organ-builder of Exeter aged 90. He was a native of Barnstable, whither his ancestors had emigrated from Flanders, with many others, on account of the Protestant persecutions on the revocation of the Edict of Nantes. Mr MICHEAU was brought to the woollen trade, which had been carried on by his father at Barnstable, but having displayed a genius for music and constructed an organ without instruction, his friends placed him with Mr ENGLAND of London, the most celebrated organ-builder of the day, under whom he soon acquired proficiency. He built the organs of Tiverton and Dartmouth churches and that of St Mary Major's in Exeter. Through the friendly offices of William JACKSON the eminent composer of Exeter, and Mr LANGDON the organist of the Cathedral, MICHEAU secured an introduction to the best musical circles and for 40 years had charge of the organ at Exeter Cathedral. He was a man of estimable character, and lived in a small dwelling house in Upper Paul St. His only daughter Jane was married at St Paul's Exeter on the 16th December 1786, to Mr George BALE of Landkey, near Barnstable. She inherited her father's musical talents, but died at the age of 27.
Nov 25th, An advertisement offers a premium of 20 guineas for plans, for the erection of a new market house at Tiverton.
"Expeditious Travelling. The "Triumph" post coach performed the first journey from Barnstable to Exeter in five and three quarter hours."
A tremendous storm of rain, thunder, lightening and wind, the incidents of which are still vividly remembered, raged along our southern shores on the 22nd. It commenced early in the afternoon, and continued with little intermission for 24 hours. During the night the wind blew with tremendous force, accompanied by torrents of rain. The streets were rendered dangerous by falling slates, bricks and chimneys. Many of the elms on Northernhay were stripped of their branches and others were prostrated at various places in or near the city. Some elms falling across the road at Red Hill in St Thomas, prevented the Falmouth mail from reaching Exeter, and the bags were brought into the city by the guard on horseback. The Exe, Culm and Creedy overflowed the lowlands, carrying away sheep and cattle. Mr HUTCHINGS of Exminster lost 160 sheep, Mr BAKER of the same place 70, Messers S and J. DREW lost 108, many having ewes in lamb. The Exe attained its greatest height at 1pm, on the 23rd, when the water was 3 feet deep in Okehampton St. At Topsham the spring tide was extraordinary high and many boats were carried off and destroyed. The coaches in Exmouth could not pass beyond Topsham Bridge. On Exmouth the storm fell with great severity, the sea deluging the streets in the lower levels and compelling the residents to seek refuge in their upper rooms. During the height of the tempest a fire broke out in the premises of Mr PIKE, linen draper of that town and destroyed the greater part of his stock and furniture. At Dawlish the waves entirely ruined the new road on the beach and swept off boats, bathing machines etc. The lower rooms of the houses were filled with sand and stones some of the latter being of considerable size. At Teignmouth the Baths and the wall of East Teignmouth Churchyard were laid in ruins. Similar accounts of destruction came from Starcross, Budleigh, Salterton, Sidmouth and other places on the coast, the invading waves driving the frightened inhabitants from their homes in the night. The promenade at Sidmouth and several houses were destroyed. Numerous wrecks occurred at Plymouth, where no such storm had occurred since the overthrow of Winstanley's Lighthouse on the Eddystone in 1703. The shipping in the landlocked harbour at Dartmouth escaped without material injury, but the water flooded the town to the depth of four feet. At Seaton scarcely a house escaped injury, and "Mr Robert DYMOND of Exeter, with his family [consisting of his wife and the complier of this record then only three weeks old], had a narrow escape, the front of the house was beaten in and completely demolished, the lower rooms being filled nearly to the ceiling with stones and sand" At a great county and city meeting held at the Guildhall, a subscription was commenced for the relief of the sufferers from the tempest, nearly £6,000 was raised.
Trewman's Flying Post April 30th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 1V - V
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A
. 1824
Dec 30th, "Broadgate, the final demolition of this venerable relic of antiquity was set about yesterday, and we shall soon have to congratulate our fellow citizens and visitors of this city on possessing a fine and appropriate approach to that beautiful and admired structure, the Cathedral, Several kinds of stone were used in the building, some specimens which have been seen taken from the upper part, appear to abound in marine productions. Martin's Lane has been made a thoroughfare for horses and carriage while the site of Broadgate is being cleared away."
The next week's paper contains the following :-
"Broadgate now yields to Gothic sway,
Despoiled of every feature;
St Michael's driven thus away,
The Lord defend Saint Peter."- P.
[Broadgate was sometimes called St Michael's Gate and a statue of the archangel stood in a niche over the arch. The gatehouse was a beautiful example of mediaeval architecture and we have before remarked, it is a pity that no other mode of improving the access to the Cathedral Close could be found by our civic rulers than by the destruction of this choice monument a genius and skill which they could neither appreciate nor emulate. Many protests were made against the act of vandalism. The site of the gate was re-opened for carriages on the 28th, February 1825]
1825
Jan 13th, A meeting of the landowners and others was held at Taunton on the 10th to consider the question of "forming a railroad from Taunton to Bristol and from Taunton to Exeter, with a branch to Tiverton" It was resolved to form a "Taunton and Grand Western Rail-Road Company" with a capital of £200,000 in £50 shares. It was intended to join "the great northern and London rail-roads to Bristol" and a main object of its promoters seems to have been to being the produce of the Nailsea coal pits into the west at a cheaper rate than the Welsh coal could be carried by water. "By means of such a road the company will be enabled to transport the heaviest goods with certainty and security by day and night, at all times of the year, in periods of frost or drought, at the rate of at least 8 mph and passengers at the rate of 12 mph." A passion for railways and canals seems to have come over the public mind at this period all through England an a fortnight later our paper announced the formation of a "Grand Western Rail-Road Company" to construct a railroad from London to Falmouth by Basingstoke, Wincanton, Taunton, Tiverton, Exeter, Launceston, Bodmin and Truro, with branches from Wincanton to Bath from Exeter to Barnstable and Plymouth, and from Taunton to Lyme and Bridgwater. For this comprehensive scheme, the execution of which would have saved an extravagant expenditure in Parliamentary warfare which has since been incurred a capital of three millions was though sufficient. A more modest project, which the citizens of Exeter discussed in public meetings at this time, was that of forming a railway from Exeter Quay to a dock to be constructed near Powderham Church. For this scheme Messers R. DYMOND and J. LETHBRIDGE prepared plans, which are still extant. Meetings were also held to promote the construction of a railway from Exeter to Exmouth by way of Topsham and Lympstone. [None of these undertakings were carried out and more than 10 years elapsed before the Act for making a railway from Bristol to Exeter was passed and 19 years before the work was completed] A correspondent "P" sends the following epigram "on the numerous projected railways :-
"O! when will contradictions cease?
Or when be less prevailing!
Tis strange that in time of Peace
There should be so much railing!"
Jan 27th, The Chamber of Exeter first considered the propriety of extending the canal from Topsham to Turf. The work commenced about 3 months later, under Mr James GREEN engineer, and completed in 1827.
Feb 10th, Mr Thomas CAMPION succeeds Mr T. UPHAM in the office of Wharfinger at Exeter Quay.
March 31st, The first stone of the Laira Bridge at Plymouth, laid on the 22nd by Mr J. M. RENDEL the engineer.
April 7th, John Hutton COOPER Esq, returned M.P, for Dartmouth, in the room of the Hon James Hamilton STANHOPE, deceased.
April 28th, Opening of the new church at Dawlish, on Sunday, 24th. The Rev Dr PERKINS, Vicar preached and Mr PADDON organist of the Cathedral, performed on the new organ, built by Brooking and Son, of Exeter. Mr Andrew PATEY of Teignmouth was the architect.
"The corporation of Southmolton have recently caused one of the principal streets of that borough to be flagged with broad stones" A new prison is also built there.
The bill for the removal of Roman Catholic Disabilities passed the Commons by a majority of 27, but on the news of its being shortly afterwards thrown out by the Lords the Cathedral and parish bells were set ringing. Sir T. D. ACLAND and Mr COURTENAY [afterwards Earl Devon] voted with the majority, and Messers E, BASTARD and R. W. NEWMAN and Sir L. V. PALK with the minority. The papers at this time teemed with correspondence on the subject, in which the ruin of the Constitution was predicted as a consequence of the concession of Catholic claims.
May 5th, A small vessel launched into the Exe by Mr J. C. WILLIAMS of the lime kilns. [The launch took place from the sites of the houses between the present Fort Royal Inn and the grounds of Larkbeare House]
May 19th, Preparations in progress for converting Bedford Crescent into a Circus by the erection of the present houses on the south side.
May 26th, At a Chamber held yesterday the late Mr Hugh M. ELLICOMBE was elected Chamberlain of Exeter, in the room of Mr Samuel MORTIMER resigned [Mr ELLICOMBE was the last, as the celebrated John HOKER was the first incumbent of this office. It existed from 1555 to 1836, when Mr ELLICOMBE resigned. Mr MORTIMER had succeeded Mr Edward GATTEY on the 15th Sept 1814]
June 16th, From an early hour on the 13th the neighbourhood of the New London Inn and the streets approaching the city from the London road were alive with festive preparations. The inn porch was decked with flowers and evergreens, St Sidwell's bells rang merrily, and by noon Paris St and the Heavitree Rd were crowded by an eager multitude. Just before three a carriage arrived, accompanied by a procession of horsemen, banners and bands of music. The enthusiastic populace detached the horse and drew the carriage into the city down High St then by Broadgate to the Cathedral Yard, up Catherine St, and so by upper Southernhay to the New London Inn, where a vast crowd filled the square. The object of this ovation presently appeared, blandly bowing, at a window, and, after expressing the hope that they would excuse his embarrassment at addressing so large an assembly for the first time, he promised that if returned to Parliament the city its interests would "at all times and on all occasions find in him a firm and steady advocate" with much more of the kind. With respect to the "burning question" of the day, he declared himself "the firm and determined opponent of any further concessions to the Roman Catholics" but whatever might be the result of the election, and whatever his situation in life, the interests of the ancient and loyal city of Exeter, should always have the first place in his regard. The new candidate thus enthusiastically welcomed, was Mr W. C. D. TYSSEN a young gentleman from Kent.
June 23rd, The village of Honiton Clist was almost entirely destroyed by fire on the 20th during a high wind, which carried the flames with great rapidity over the thatched roofs, and by the time the engines arrived from Exeter nearly all the village was in ruins, and the vicarage premises were saved with difficulty. Two aged persons perished in the fire, 33 houses were destroyed and 153 poor inhabitants reduced to distress. A subscription for their relief was immediately opened.
Accounts of wrestling matches frequently occur in the papers at this period, the famous champion Abraham CANN and his brother James, being prominent actors at most of them. A description of Abraham occurs in this paper as he appeared at a match which took place at Topsham on the 20th. Enquires of "where are the CANN'S?" arose amongst the spectators, when at the 19th round Abraham's hat was thrown into the ring, "and as he entered and stripped all eyes were fixed on him. There was nothing of ostentation or bullying swagger, but a quiet, almost amounting to meek, demeanour. He is well and strongly grown, but weighs only 12st 6lb, and stands rather under 5ft 8ins, but his muscular powers are of the first description. He modestly looked around the ring, his hair dropped carelessly on his manly forehead, and at that moment never could there have been a finer subject for the painter. His opponent was a fine young man named James HARVEY, of Kenton, but in two minutes he was thrown" A. CANN having thrown four first rate players was awarded the best prize. He was a native of Colebrook, Devon, and had lately become the landlord of the Moreton Inn, St Thomas. There was a round of matches at various places in the country about this time at which Abraham CANN always proved the best wrestler, and, a few weeks later a specially grand one at Crediton is this enthusiastically commented on by the reporter :- The number of persons present may well be called immense, it was a complete dense mass, but all was order, and we felt a felling of pride and exultation for our native county as we looked on them. This and the ring was a sight even for royalty itself, and as loyal subjects we did wish that his most gracious Majesty could have witnessed it, sure we are that Devonshire and the Crediton wrestling would never have been erased from his memory, it certainly never will from ours." This match lasted three days, Abraham CANN as usual winning the first and his brother James the second prize. [Would that the art of wrestling be revived in Devon as of yore. Unfortunately it fell into the hands of publicans, and the evils of betting and drinking and their usual consequences fat outweighed the advantages of these trials of strength and agility.]
June 30th, 12 houses destroyed by fire in East St, Southmolton.
July 7th, About 6 acres of Mount Radford Park sold by Sir T. BARING for building purposes to "two respectable individuals of this city" [Messers William and Henry HOOPER]
"Cheap travelling" Placards are posted in front of Pratt's London Inn and Congdon's Hotel; coach offices in this city, containing the following notice :- "Fare to Teignmouth, inside 2s, outside 1s, or what you please."
July 14th, St Martin's Church, Exeter, in a dilapidated state, most of the vaults on the eastern side having fallen in and one of the side walls rent from top to bottom. In repairing these vaults a lead coffin was opened containing the remains of the Rev Mr HERON, who had died 85 years previously. The body was as perfect as when interred, and the napkin and the shroud "as white an uninjured as if they had just come from a draper's shop."
July 28th, Public dinners held a Axminster, Chard etc, in furtherance of the project of a ship canal to unite the English and Bristol Channels. At the latter place one enthusiastic gentleman of the mature age of 90, but, "with the fine cheerfulness of a boy of eighteen," informed the company that "if he had £100,000 he would embark £99,999 of it in this great work."
Trewman's Flying Post May 7th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George V1
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1825
July 28th, "Charles MATHEWS [the elder] was At Home, at our Theatre last evening, 26th, and had the gratification of welcoming a most numerous assemblage of visitors, many of whom complain sadly of the effect Mr M, has had on their sides by the incessant laughter and applause which his very humorous Trip to America, called forth" MATHEWS had come here from Plymouth, where his performances were equally appreciated.
General MINA, the Spanish patriot arrived in Exeter, where he spent a few days, in the course of which he visited the Castle during the Assizes [This famous guerrilla chieftain, named "King of Navarre" was actively engaged in the Peninsular war against the French, and commanded the royal army against the Carlists in 1835. He died in 1836]
A grand wrestling match took place at Ashburton on the 18th and 19th. A man named THORN of Widecombe-in-the Moor, possessed immense strength and who had distinguished himself in the Life Guards at Waterloo, had been put into training by some gentlemen at Ashburton, for the purpose of pitting him against the champion, Abraham CANN. "They met in the double play and THORN, who is nearly 6ft in height and large limbed, towered like a giant over his competitor, who is scarcely 5ft 8ins, but the countenance of CANN was unaltered as he viewed his antagonist, it was marked by the same mild and placid look which we have at all times noticed in him, but not so the numerous spectators, for the ring exhibited a state of breathless anxiety, and anxious suspense approaching to the painful, which may be conceived but never be described. Happily it was not of long duration, the struggle was tremendous, but in three minutes the giant fell with a force that made the very ground tremble, it was as if the huge oak had been torn by the roots and hurled to the earth, the whole ring resounded with shouts, but the Ashburtonians took it all in good part, laughing heartily as they viewed their hero stretched on the green sod"
Aug 4th, The reports of the trials at the Assizes, which formerly occupied a brief paragraph now extend to four columns.
Amongst the prisoners convicted was James BAKER, who was sentenced to death for assaulting a child, but this was afterwards respited.
Aug 18th, An advertisement headed "Dispatch Unequalled" announces the "Flying Waggons" of SNELL and Co, will carry goods from Exeter to Bristol in 42 hours and to Bath in 2 days.
Oct 6th, The following paragraph shows the ideas of church restoration which found favour in the Georgian era "The roof of the parish church of St Stephen in this city being much out of repair, the parishioners have, with zeal, determined to take the opportunity for remodelling and beautifying the interior, by which it will be rendered light and airy as well as more commodious than at present. The old roof is to come down entirely, and to give place to two rows of light pillars and arches dividing the church into a centre and two side aisles, the effect of the whole will be to render it one of the most handsomest parish church in the city. The present building was erected on the site of the old church in 1664, with the exception of the tower, which received some additions to the upper part a few years since, but is otherwise most probably co-eval with the original building"
The bank of Square, Prideaux and Co, at Kingsbridge, stopped payment on the 28th, and that of Shiells and Co, of Devonport, on the 1st inst.
The proceedings at the election of a Mayor at this time being rather more fully reported than usual, we give an abstract of them to exemplify the difference between the course adopted before and after the Municipal Reform Act. On the 26th ult, the Monday before Michaelmas day, the freemen and citizens met at the Guildhall "when the usual forms having been gone through," T. STEVENS Esq, the Recorder, addressed the assembly, and after advertising to the object of their meeting and complimenting the retiring mayor on the way in which his duties had been performed, he reminded them that by their Charter, it was upon them to find a successor equally worthy and capable of guarding their rights and privileges. He proceeded to state that the Common Council exercising the power which the Charter placed in their hands, had thought fit to nominate John HARRIS and William PAYNE Esqrs, of whom they should choose one. This was followed by loud cries of "PAYNE! PAYNE!" who was thereupon declared duly elected Mr PAYNE returned thanks to his brother freemen and promised the faithful performance of his duties "without fear, favour, or affection to any man". Mr Thomas BOWRING, a freeman, thereupon reminded the Recorder that he had omitted to move a vote of thanks to the retiring mayor and proceeded to do so with further compliments. The Recorder acknowledged the omission and felt obliged to Mr BOWRING for so ably supplying it. The retiring Mayor returned thanks, and at the same court Mr John Haddy JAMES, surgeon was appointed Receiver, and Messers HAYMAN, BENT and STRONG were appointed Stewards. On the following Monday Mr PAYNE having in the interim taken the sacrament as prescribed by the Test and Corporation Acts, was sworn in and became Mayor. The other officials elected last Monday were in like manner sworn in, and Henry BLACKALL Esq, was then appointed and sworn in as Sheriff, Mr W. R. BISHOP as Under Sheriff, and the Revs John MARSHALL and T. ATKINSON were appointed Mayor's Chaplains. "On the different insignia the staffs of office being, according to ancient custom handed up to the new Mayor, he rose, and taking the Sword of State" returned it to Mr STRONG the sword-bearer, with a complementary speech on the manner in which he had borne it before so many preceding Mayors. The sword-bearer replied, "in a neat appropriate speech" The ex-Mayor Mr H. H. PINBEY, then addressed Captain CHAPPLE and his corps of constables, thanking them for the praiseworthy manner in which their duties had been executed during his term of office, and a few words of reply from Captain CHAPPLE closed the proceedings [The choice of a Mayor by the freemen from the two nominees of the Common Council was generally made without a division, but, as has been stated in a previous note it was sometimes necessary to determine the election by votes]
Oct 20th, A meeting consisting mainly of manufacturers and tradesmen was held last week at the Freemason's Hall, at the Half Moon Inn, for the purpose of establishing a Mechanic's Institution. The late Mr John TYRRELL afterwards Judge of the Exeter County Court took the leading part in the movement. A requisition for the purpose having been presented to the Mayor, his Worship appointed a meeting at the Guildhall on the 23rd November, but declined to preside on the plea of other business. The chair was taken by Samuel KINGDON and Mr TYRRELL made a speech in which he referred to the advantages of these institutions and to their recent establishment in many other towns. The scheme was chiefly supported by the dissenting interests, and does not appear to have found favour with the clerical body and leading citizens attached to the ruling party. It was resolved to establish a Mechanic's Institute with a library from which books relating to controversial theology and party politics should be excluded, the only dissentient at the meeting being the eccentric "Captain COOKE" who made a characteristic speech expressing the opinion that for his part he thought infant schools were better than Mechanic's Institutes to learn them virtue before vice, and as likely to be more successful then endeavouring to teach a stupid mechanical head. "Learn them their subject well, to read and write, cast upon pounds shillings and pence - I never got more myself - [loud laughter] - learn them their religion, and make them wise in virtue, for whoever heard a mechanic had not been employed for want of literature, . . . besides, take men from their enjoyment of ale and cakes at their public houses, and you will take away their seven senses . . . I am decidedly against the Mechanic's Institute and think it will be an injury to the country"
A Mechanic's Institute opened at Plymouth on the 7th, with an introductory lecture by Dr COOKWORTHY.
Nov 10th, Launceston was, "a scene of great gaiety and festivity" on the 2nd, water having been on that day introduced into the town from the newly formed reservoir in Dunbeyed Green.
The Rolle Canal between Bidsford and Torrington is now in course of construction.
A great storm on the 10th blew down one of the large elms on Northernhay, scattered the boughs and branches of others, stripped house roofs of tiles and imperilled the lives of wayfarers by throwing down stacks of chimneys. It did no damage in the sheltered haven of Dartmouth, but several of the Brixham trawlers were blown off the coast and lost. There was a tremendous sea at Plymouth, but few casualties, the wind being from the N.E.
Mr Alan B. BONE of Devonport, appointed a County Coroner without opposition in the room of Mr Joseph WHITFORD resigned [Mr J. WHITFORD'S son Mr C. C. WHITFORD, has recently resigned the Town Clerkship of Plymouth, which he had held for a great number of years]
Dec 1st, The Plymouth Bank of Sir William ELFORD, Bart, and Messers John TINGCOMBE and John Were CLARK was one of the banks which stopped payment in a crisis.
Three per cent Consuls are at 82.
Dec 22nd, MACREADY engaged for a weeks performance of Macbeth at the Exeter Theatre.
The West of England, Insurance Company reduce their rate of premium for 1st class risks from 2s to 1s-6d, per cent, at which it still stands
1826
Feb 2nd, Labourers are clearing the site for a new bridge over the Dart at Totnes, a little below the old bridge. The foundation stone was laid with much ceremony on the 6th May by R. W. NEWMAN, Esq, M.P, who mentioned in his speech that the old bridge had been erected in the reign of King John.
Feb 9th, The appointment of Mr William COURTENAY [afterwards Earl of Devon] to be Clerk-assistant of Parliament, having created a vacancy in the representation of Exeter.
March 23rd, An introductory address delivered at the Tradesmen’s Mechanic's Institute Exeter by John BOWRING Esq, [afterwards Sir John] who was elected an honorary member.
Destruction by fire on the 17th of the premises of Mr Joseph WARD, coach builder, Paris St.
April 13th, The establishment of the Deaf and Dumb Institution at Exeter for the counties of Devon and Cornwall was resolved on at a public meeting held on the 6th. Sir H. F. DAVIE, Bart in the chair [A private school for deaf and dumb children had for some time previously been carried on at Fulford near Crediton, under the auspices of Mrs TUCKFIELD. The new public institution was first established in a house [since pulled down] adjoining Lucombe Pince and Co's Nursery, in the Alphington Rd, and continued there until 1828, when the present building was completed on the Topsham Rd, and this was considerably enlarged in 18??.
Trewman's Flying Post May 14th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George V11
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1826
April 20th, This paper contains a review of Carrington's newly published poem on Dartmoor
May 4th, "St Stephen's Church, Exeter. In digging for a foundation required by the repairs and alteration of this church, a curious discovery has been made which indicates the former existence of a crypt underneath the building. Two columns of the Saxon style standing between three and four feet from each other, the capital of one of them richly carved, and that of the other carved also, but less richly and of a different form. On one of these columns now rests the pier of a lancet-formed arch, which appears to have been an addition to the church, made perhaps when the alter was removed by order to the East end of all churches. Upon the other column are the visible remains of the spandrills of arches, denoting the springing of arches at right angles. The columns rest on a solid foundation of hewn masonry, are about 6 feet high, including their capitals, the upper mouldings of which are about 18 inches beneath the floor of the church"
May 25th, The Mayor and Commonalty of Plymouth advertise their intention to lay down cast iron pipes for the better supply of the inhabitants with water.
June 1st, It is mentioned that the 29th May "was celebrated in the usual manner, the fronts of the houses were ornamented with boughs of oak, the bells rang merrily, the magistrates and incorporate bodies attended divine service at the Cathedral, where the Rev Precentor BARTLAM preached, and in the evening the Guildhall was illuminated" [The celebration of this anniversary in Exeter has since gradually declined and the day now passes almost unnoticed]
June 8th, Mr Mark KENNAWAY elected Clerk to the Exeter Turnpike Trustees in the room of Mr Hugh M. ELLICOMBE, resigned. The other candidates were Messers William MARSHALL, John WARREN, and H. D. BARTON.
June 15th, Exeter Election, took place on the 10th, Guildhall being densely crowded on the occasion. The Rev Precentor BARTRAM proposed his "excellent young friend" Mr Samuel Trehawke KEKEWICH. This was seconded by Mr James PITMAN of Dunchideock House, Mr E. P. LYON proposed and Mr Chas BRAKE seconded Mr Lewis William BUCK. No other candidate having been nominated, these two gentlemen were declared duly elected, and after returning thanks underwent the ceremony of "chairing" in two richly ornamented cars decked with evergreens and banners. During the progress of the procession through the streets the fine weather suddenly changed and a drenching thunderstorm completely altered "the gay and holiday appearance of things" [Mr TYSEN'S promise to appear as a candidate was not fulfilled]
The thunderstorm which broke in on the election festivities proved very destructive in the neighbourhood. At Alphington the lightening struck the vane of the church tower and descended the belfry, where the ringers were engaged. A lad named COLES, son of the sexton, fell instantly dead, three of the ringers were struck senseless, and a man, standing at the belfry door "was whirled from the spot and carried a distance of several yards into the church" The tower and eastern part of the church were much shattered.
June 22nd, The election of members for Devonshire took place on the 15th [The county was not then in three divisions as at present] Mr Edmund Pollexfen BASTARD [late member] was proposed by Sir William T. POLE, Bart and seconded by Mr A. H. HOLDSWORTH, Sir Thomas Dyke ACLAND Bart, was proposed by Sir S. H. NORTHCOTE and seconded by Mr John [afterwards Sir John] KENNAWAY. Lord Ebrington was, amidst great uproar, proposed by the Rev John Pike JONES and seconded by Mr YOLLAND, of Crediton. The show of hands being declared in favour of Sir T. D. ACLAND and Lord Ebrington, a poll was demanded on behalf of Mr BASTARD, but it had proceeded only a few hours when Lord Ebrington retired, and the other candidates were declared duly elected.
The Freedom of Exeter was presented on the 19th to Mr S. T. KEKEWICH the newly elected member [on his decease his eldest son Trehawke KEKEWICH Esq, now of Peamore, was admitted in June 1873] A like compliment was conferred on the 31st on Mr L. W. BUCK the other member. A public dinner afterwards took place at the Hotel [now the Clarence] then recently entered on by Mrs STREET, late of the London Hotel, Sidmouth.
July 6th, The new road from Bideford to Torrington was opened with firing cannon, display of flags etc.
July 27th, The hitherto frequent advertisements of lotteries now disappear being illegal. [They were abolished by the Act 6 Geo IV, c, 60]
The new public rooms at Teignmouth opened on the 14th with a ball.
Aug 17th, First proposal to construct Summerland Street and York Road, Exeter.
The foundation stone of the new district church at Starcross laid on the 7th.
Aug 31st, The Freedom of Exeter was presented to Sir Humphrey DAVIE Bart, of Creedy on the 26th.
A new organ by Brooking and Son, Exeter "was opened for Divine service" at Cullompton on the 27th
The cholera morbus stated to be "very prevalent" in Exeter.
Sept 7th, Death on the 4th of Robert Lord GIFFORD, Master of the Rolls [Robert GIFFORD was the youngest of the four sons of John GIFFORD, a Presbyterian linen-draper and dealer in hops and grocery in Exeter, by his 2nd wife Dorothy WEARMAN. Born in Exeter on the 24th February 1779, young Robert, having proved himself a clever schoolboy, was articled in 1795, to Mr John JONES an attorney, in his native city. His ability in Mr JONES'S office attracted the keen notice of Mr John BARING, who remarked that the young man would certainly reach the woolsack if he lived. Disappointed in his expectation of a partnership with his master, he entered as a student of the Middle Temple in 1800, and on the 12th February 1808, he was called to the bar and attached himself to the Western Circuit. Here his progress was rapid and brilliant. On the 9th May 1817, he became a Solicitor-General, and, in the same month entered the House of Commons as a member for Eye, and received the honour of a knighthood. In July 1819, he succeeded Sir Samuel SHEPHERD as Attorney-General and in this capacity he led the presentation in the trial of Queen Caroline. A quick succession of honours rewarded his services on this occasion. On the 28th January 1824, he was appointed Chief Justice of the Common Pleas, and soon afterwards Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords, and, having been raised to the peerage with the title of Baron Gifford, of Parker's Well, received his final distinction of Master of the Rolls. He was not destined to bear these honours long, for, worn out by fatigue and anxiety, he died at Dover on the 4th September 1826, at the comparatively early age of 47, and was buried in the Rolls Chapel, Chancery Lane. Lord Gifford married at Heavitree on the 6th April 1816, Harriet Maria, 2nd daughter of the Rev E. DREWE, vicar of Broadhembury, and a member of the well known family of The Grange. This lady survived her illustrious husband till December 1828, when she died at Parker's Well House, which afterwards became the residence of her brother-in-law Wearman Gifford Esq. It is now the residence of Mr W. BROCK]
Mr Samuel Frederick MILFORD, who had removed from Exeter to Brighton for the benefit of his health, was appointed a J.P, for Sussex.
Sept 14th, St Stephen's Church, Exeter, having been re-roofed and remodelled, is to be opened on the 1st Oct.
"On making some alterations at Mr S. MAUNDER'S, 41 High St, this city, an ancient headpiece over the front door was discovered, carved and with the date 1564, the premises were formerly held under the Dean and Chapter, and described in the old leases as the "Mansion House"
Oct 5th, On the 30th ult the foundry and workshops of Messers S and W. KINGDON, in Waterbeer St, were destroyed by fire [Messers KINGDON immediately set about rebuilding them in their present form]
Oct 26th, A severe and protracted match which took place at Devonport between the renowned Devon and Cornwall wrestlers, Abraham CANN and James POLKINGHORNE, resulted in a drawn game.
Dec 28th, The corner stone of the new Market-place was laid on the 26th and "being Christmas the workmen were regaled with a proper quantum of strong beer"
Dec 31st, Death of William GIFFORD, founder and editor of the Quarterly Review, at his home James St, Buckingham Gate, London, aged 70 [This celebrated critic and author was the son of a painter and glazier at Ashburton, where he was born in April 1766, and at the Grammar School of which he received his early education. At the age of 13, he was deprived by death of both his parents and was sent on board a Brixham trawler. His subsequent career has been narrated by himself and others and need not be repeated here.. It is remarkable that within the short space of 3 months Devonshire should have to grieve the loss of two illustrious sons, wholly unconnected with each other in blood and pursuits, but both bearing the name Gifford]
1827
Jan 11th, This paper is in mourning columns owing to the death, from dropsy, on the 5th, of H. R. H. the Duke of York, Commander-in-chief of the Army. By this event Prince William Henry, Duke of Clarence, became heir to the throne.
Feb 8th, The Improvement Commissioners resolve to lay down a flag pavement on the south side of St Sidwell St.
Mr Mark KENNAWAY elected Clerk to the Commissioners of Improvement by the casting vote of the chairman, after a contest in which Messers Joseph B. SANDERS, C. H. TURNER and John GIDLEY, were candidates. The vacancy arose by the death of Mr William BOWRING, solicitor on the 31st January.
Feb 28th, Mrs ANDREWS late of the King John Tavern, in South St, advertises her entry on the occupation of Mol's Coffee House in the Close [Now Mr WORTH'S picture establishment]
March 5th, The agitation on the Roman Catholic claims to equal rights of citizenship had revived and on commencement of the parliamentary debate on this subject, Mr KEKEWICH presented several petitions praying that no further concessions might be granted. Amongst these were petitions from the Mayor and Corporation, the clergy of the Exeter Archdeaconry, and from several of the city parishes.
The work of macadamising the portion of High St from the Grammar School to Gandy St was commenced by the Commissioners of Improvement. There was great objection to the measure, and the churchwardens of St Laurence, St Stephen, St Martin, All Hallows, Goldsmith St, were desired to convene vestry meetings in opposition.
An advertisement in this paper announced that Mount Redford House was about to be opened as a public school. [ A company of shareholders had purchased the house and grounds in the year preceding, with the object of founding a college school. The late John TYRRELL [afterwards County Court Judge], was secretary to the committee and Mr John MILFORD [now senior partner of the City Bank] was treasurer. The first headmaster was the Rev E. J. BARROW, D.D, but questions which arose to the extent of which the directors and the master should respectively exercise authority in the government of the school, led to his retirement in the next year, when he was succeeded by the Rev Henry WORSELY, L.L.D. The undertaking did not prosper under its joint stock constitution. Dr RIDGWAY [recently deceased] and his brother were engaged as writing masters on the opening of the school, and the late Rev Henry ACTON, Unitarian minister, was one of the tutors]
Trewman's Flying Post May 21st, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George V1-VIII
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1827
March 22nd, The foundation stone of the Freemason's Hall was laid last week in Cornwall St, Plymouth. It is stated that nearly 600 new dwelling houses had been erected in the town during the last three years.
The late Mayoralty House [now the Civet Cat] passed into the possession of Mr E. EARDLEY, china dealer.
At a meeting held at the Globe Hotel, the Devon County [Whig] Club passed a resolution in favour of Catholic Emancipation.
April 5th, Thomas FRIEND executed at the County Gaol on the 2nd, for the murder of Sarah GLASS at Ashbury, North Devon. The body was according to custom delivered to the surgeons at the Hospital for dissection. John ORCHARD, Jnr, farmer, South Tawnton, was executed for forgery at the same place on the 16th. His body was removed for interment in his native parish of South Zeal.
April 19th, The remains of Rev Robert HAWKER, D.D, interred in Charles Church, Plymouth on the 12th.
May 3rd, The speed of the London mail is accelerated so as to perform the journey from Exeter in 20 hours.
June 14th, A new smack named The London, 125 tons, was launched from the Haven Banks, opposite Exeter Quay, a very unusual occurrence.
June 28th, Dissolution of the South Devon Marine, Fire and Life Assurance Company, resolved on at a general meeting of the proprietors held at Newton Abbot on the 25th. The company was formed in February, 1825.
July 12th, The Lord Admiral H.R.H. the Duke of Clarence [afterwards William 1V] arrived at Plymouth in the Royal yacht on the 9th.
July 19th, The Duchess [afterwards Queen Adelaide] reached Exeter by road on the 13th, on her way to Plymouth. The houses were decorated and a procession escorted the carriage through High St and Broadgate to Street's Hotel in the Close. The Duchess was received at the hotel by Lord ROLLE and the Recorder, and at a later hour, the Bishop and Cathedral dignitaries were introduced. After spending the night at the hotel, she visited the Bishop's Palace and the Cathedral, then proceeded by way of Teignmouth and Torquay to Plymouth entering that town by way of the new Laira Bridge, which was opened for the occasion. At Plymouth and Devonport some days were spent in inspection of the Breakwater and Government establishments, and there were levees, dinners, balls, illuminations etc in honour of the Royal visitors, who, during part of their stay, became the guests of the Earl of Mount Edgecumbe. The Duchess left Plymouth by road for Ilfracombe, passing through Torrington and Barnstable, and calling on Lord ROLLE at Stevenstone, whilst the Duke proceeded by sea round the Land's End. From Ilfracombe they crossed the channel to Milford Haven. [From the date of the visit "The Hotel" as it had always been called, became known as The Clarence Hotel]
Aug 2nd, Very numerous accounts of wrestling matches have appeared in the paper for sometime past, but this week two and a half closely printed columns are devoted to a report of the regatta and wrestling at Dartmouth, including a very protracted and interesting contest between the famous champion, Abraham CANN, and a young Hercules named James FROST of Aveton Gifford. The movements of these antagonists are recounted with great minuteness, FROST had more than once lifted the champion bodily aloft, but, finally, as FROST abandoned for a moment his defensive tactics and made "an offer, CANN, quick as light, and with all his wonted coolness , seized the opportunity and brought him over, flat as a flounder, on his back" amidst the loud cheers of the spectators. CANN, being the victor in other contests on this occasion, carried off the first prize as usual.
A tremendous storm of thunder and lightening broke on the night of the 29th ult, on Exeter and the south coast of Devon. During the storm, Lieutenant GIFFORD, in the Dolphin cutter, captured a smuggling boat near Dartmouth. "Had it not been for the light occasioned by the vivid flashes of lightening, the smugglers would, most probably, have escaped with their booty"
Aug 23rd, Death at Bath on the 19th, of James BULLER Esq, of Downes, whose remains were interred at St Thomas, Exeter on the 25th. Mr BULLER was a gentleman of high honour and urbane manners, who had several times been chosen member for Exeter. He was first elected, after a severe contest on the 22nd June, 1790, when after five days polling, the votes were for BULLER 1,106, BARING 588, and BAMPFYLDE 550. Mr BULLER did not offer himself at the General Election of 1796, but in 1802 he yielded to the urgent invitation of the citizens, who again returned him at the head of the poll, and he represented Exeter until 1818, when he finally withdrew from public life.
Mr CONGDON late of the [Clarence] Hotel, became the proprietor of the Subscription [now Public Rooms], Exeter
Aug 30th, Two young men named JAMES and CHAMPION, but whose real names proved to be LEWIS and BREWER, were executed on the 24th, for burglary at Tiverton.
Sept 6th, The portrait of John SHELDON, F.R.S, presented to the Devon and Exeter Hospital, by Mr J. H. WILLIAMS, an artist. [The death of this celebrated surgeon and anatomist on the 8th October 1808, has already been referred to]
Sept 20th, The new district chapel at Starcross will shortly be ready for opening. "A chaste and beautiful altar piece of Grecian architecture has just been erected in it by Mr John KENDALL, statuary, of Exeter" at the cost of J. NEWCOMBE, Esq, of Starcross.
The Exeter Canal, having been deepened and widened from Topsham Lock to Turf, was opened with great ceremony on the 14th. The city barge left the Quay at 9am with the Mayor and Chamber, accompanied by Messers BUCK and KEKEWICH, city members, Sir T. D. ACLAND, member for Devon, and many other gentlemen. Several boats followed and the music of the band mingled with that of the bells of the Cathedral and Exminster church as the voyagers proceeded. Vast numbers of people crowded the banks as they returned to Exeter, where they landed at 5pm "under salutes of artillery and the loudest cheering" The day ended with a dinner at Mrs STREET'S Clarence Hotel. On the 17th the barge again took a party down to Turf, where quadrilles were danced on board the "Dispatch" schooner, which, with several other vessels, accompanied the return of the barge. "Amidst the firing of cannon, display of sky rockets, and the blaze of bonfires, the whole line of vessels returned to the Quay in the evening" [It is remarkable that the elaborate account of the extension of the canal contained in Dr Oliver's History of Exeter makes no reference to this event nor the date of the completion of the work. The actual opening of the canal to Turf for navigation was not accomplished until 12th December 1828, when the construction of the Basin at Exeter was also in progress]
Oct 4th, The Duke of Somerset purchased the Stover Estate, belonging to George TEMPLER Esq, the constructor of the Haytor granite railway and the Stover Canal
. The new market place opened on the site now occupied by Queen St, Exeter, and the pork butchers and potato dealers were removed to it. "We trust it is only the precursor of the entire removal of the market from High St." [This was not the present Higher Market which was not completed until 1838]
"On the first arrival of the London mail at Barnstable on the 25th ult, the inhabitants assembled in great numbers, took out the horses, and dragged the coach through the principal streets of the town. In the evening the event was celebrated with a public dinner at the Fortescue Arms"
Oct 18th, William FRANKS was sentenced to death by the Recorder at the City Sessions, for forgery of interest notes on the City Bank. The sentence was afterwards commuted to transportation for life.
Numerous petitions in favour of transacting the county business at Quarter Sessions in open court were considered by the magistrates, who passed a resolution refusing compliance. [The concession was granted in the following year, July 17th, 1828]
Dec, The Mount Radford Estate about to be disposed of for building. The Deaf and Dumb Institution building is in progress.
Dec 20th, A branch of the Bank of England was opened on the 17th in Southernhay, under Messers P. P. HYDE and G. C. HOLROYD [The last named gentleman was a son of Mr Justice HOLROYD. He afterwards became a partner in the Devon County Bank, and on the business of the latter being transferred to the National Provincial Bank he acted as manager of its Exeter branch] Several correspondents of the paper deprecated the establishment of a branch of the Bank of England in Exeter, and urged that the existing private establishments ought not to be subjected to competition. [They wrote thus without the slightest apparent consciousness that there was anything commercially unsound in this line of argument, and it evidently did not occur to them that the interests of the community at large were to be considered. It was not only on this subject, but on every other affecting trade and manufactures that these narrow views were prevalent in ante Free Trade times]
Dec 20th, The Lord High Admiral Prince William Henry, Duke of Clarence, passed through Exeter with his suite on his way to Plymouth, sleeping at STREET'S, Clarence Hotel on the night of the 19th, after receiving an address from the Mayor and Chamber, and accepting the freedom of the city. He left at 7.30 am the next morning, but his stay in Plymouth seems to have been limited to a day and a half, for he passed through Exeter on his return journey at 3pm on the 22nd. On this occasion he was met at the Alphington turnpike gate by a detachment of yeomanry cavalry, a band of music and a great crowd, by whom he was conducted through the city. He merely changed horses at the Clarence, without alighting from the carriage. The object of the journey to Plymouth appears to have been the presentation of colours to the Royal Marines, and this was done with great ceremony on the Parade in front of Government House.
Dec 27th, The price of wool has for some time been extremely low in Devonshire, only 6d per 1b. Three per Cent Consols 88.
1828
Jan 24th, Don Miguel and a numerous suite reached Exeter on the 18th, and, after taking refreshment at CLENCH'S, New London Inn, proceeded in a carriage and four to Plymouth, where he was received with much ceremony from the authorities. The young prince, after being detained for some time by the contrary winds, sailed from Plymouth in the "Perla" frigate on the 10th February for Portugal, where he immediately commenced his despotic rule.
March 27th, Eight innkeepers and pastry cooks at Reading "were served with Exchequer writs for selling soda-water, not having taken out a medicine license"
April 3rd, The question of enlarging the parish church of St Thomas, Exeter, was at this time under discussion. One worthy parishioner, who had zealously advocated the work, was observed to vote at the parish meeting for an amendment, which had been moved against it and carried by a majority of one. On being called to account by his friends, he persisted that he had voted rightly, declaring, "I voted for mending the church, to be sure!"
Trewman's Flying Post May 28th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 1V-1X
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1828
May 1st, "Last week the workmen employed in demolishing the old bridge at Totnes discovered the foundation of that structure, which was inscribed the date A.D. 1111. The bridge was consequently built 717 years" [Antiquarians will hardly be disposed to accept the discovery of four straight strokes as satisfactory evidence of the date of the bridge]
May 8th, Anew race stand is being erected on the Haldon Course
May 29th, A meeting of Protestant Dissenters held in Exeter on the 27th, to express their satisfaction of the repeal of the Test and Corporation Acts. The meeting was addresses by Messers Jonathan GLYDE, James TERRELL and Richard EVANS of Exeter, Mr R. ABERDEIN and Mr Isaac COX of Honiton, Mr J. DAVY, of Crediton and others.
June 12th, On the 5th, GREEN the aeronaut ascended in his balloon from the Bonhay, Exeter amidst a vast crowd, and in ten minutes descended at Coombe Farm in Woodbury. He made a second ascent on the 18th, the anniversary of Waterloo.
An idea had been for some time entertained of establishing steam vessels to ply from Exeter to London, and at a meeting held at the Clarence Hotel on the 6th, a committee was formed to carry out the scheme and to raise capital in shares of £50 each.
A prospectus was issued by the formation of the company, with a capital of £20,000 to establish two steamers of 280 tons and 40 hp each.
Sir George COCKBURN elected on the 14th, without contest, M.P. for Plymouth, in the room of Sir William CONGREVE Bart, deceased.
June 19th, The woollen factory of Messers Thuell and Sons of Buckfastleigh, was burnt down on the 15th.
The hotel keepers and others at Ashburton interested in retaining the traffic from Exeter to Plymouth through that town, call public attention, be an advertisement to the advantages of their road over that by Newton and Totnes, viz, a saving of four and a half miles in distance £2-8d in turnpike tolls, and 52 minutes in time.
June 26th, The Marquis of Valencia, bearing despatches from the Constitutionalists of Portugal to the English Government, landed at Falmouth and passed through Exeter on the 21st."Several distinguished Portuguese who have fled from the intolerable despotism of Don Miguel arrived in Clench's London Inn in this city from Lisbon, on their way to Bath and London" Several other refugees of rank followed in the succeeding weeks. At Plymouth from 3,000 to 4,000 were lodged.
St Petrock's Church, Exeter, closed for enlargement, and the parishioners temporarily accommodated with one of the Courts at the Castle. The enlargement amounted to a rebuilding.
During a severe thunderstorm on the 22nd, the spire of Kingsbridge church was struck by lightening, which, making its exit by the communion table, did considerable damage to the interior of the building. About 16 feet of the spire had to be taken down.
July 10th, On the 5th, a man named Henry BROOM, of Buckerell, offered his wife for sale by public auction, in the market place at Honiton. The town crier gave notice of the sale, and the husband acted as auctioneer, the wife a young woman of 25, who had been married 3 years, answered the first bidding of half-a--crown with a "Thankyou Sir" A carpenter then bid seven-and-six, and a tailor two shillings more. This was capped by a barber of eight shillings more, whereupon one TREMLETT, of Awliscombe, bid £1, and the husband crying "a lucky hit" let fall his hammer. The money was instantly paid, and the purchaser and his bargain walked off contentedly together. The spectators at once assailed BROOM with hisses and a row ensued in which brickbats were thrown and several persons were injured, one a boy, severely. [This was not the final instance of the kind in Devonshire]
July 17th, Charles KEAN appears at the Exeter Theatre as Richard 111, Shylock, Othello, and other characters.
The county magistrates having agreed the financial business of the Quarter Sessions should no longer be transacted with closed doors an "extraordinary scene" occurred on a motion by Lord Ebrington, that the business be conducted in the large court, and an amendment by Mr E. P. LYON that it be adjourned to the Grand Jury Room. The amendment was supported by magistrates who had opposed publicity, but the original motion was finally carried by the casting vote of the chairman whose power to decide the question in this way was disputed in an angry discussion. On Mr GREEN the county surveyor, proceeding to read his report, the was a renewal of the "war of words which occupied a considerable time" It was contended that it would be highly inconvenient to make public the surveyor's estimate, but it was at length resolved, by 16 to 9, that the entire report be read.
July 24th, On Sunday morning the 20th, a royal salute from the Castle at the harbour mouth announced to the townspeople of Dartmouth the approach of the "Royal Sovereign" yacht, having on board H.R.H, the Duke of Clarence, Lord High Admiral. On being towed to an anchorage off the Custom House, by the "Lightning" steamer, the yacht was saluted by the "Arrow" cutter, and the prince was immediately waited on by Governor HOLDSWORTH and other gentlemen. He shortly afterwards landed under a royal salute amidst the cheers of an immense multitude, and partook of "a cold collation" at the Governor's residence, Mount Galpin. In the evening the Duke entertained a party of resident gentry on board the "Royal Sovereign". The next morning the flag was hoisted on board the "Lightning", in which steamer he embarked with his suite, and accompanied by five revenue cutters under Captain MAPLETON, Inspecting Commander of the district, proceeded round Torbay and landed at Brixham, where he inspected the Government works and received an address. On his return to Dartmouth in the afternoon, he re-embarked in his yacht, which had, by his permission, been visited by all who desired to inspect her. The town was decorated with flags and laurels, and, in the evening, enlivened with fireworks and salutes from the cannon. The royal visitor left for Plymouth early on Tuesday the 22nd. The address from the inhabitants of Brixham was enclosed in a box of heart of oak, taken from the foundations of the late Totnes Bridge, and supposed to be at least 800 years old. A piece of stone placed in the box bore the inscription, "This portion of stone on which King William the Third placed his foot when he landed in these Realms of Brixham, November 5th, 1681, is humbly presented by the inhabitants thereof to His Royal Highness the Lord High Admiral of the United Kingdom, in commemoration of his visit to Torbay, 21st July, 1828"
. The huge bonnets which were fashionable at this period, afforded the wits, ample scope for ridicule, and George CRUISKSHANK, in one of his caricatures, depicted, half-a-dozen milliners engaged, with the aid of ladders, pulleys etc, in the construction of one about the size of a hayrick.
July 31st, H.R.H, the Duchess of Clarence, who had accompanied her husband on his visit to Plymouth, returned with her suite through Exeter, on the evening of the 26th, in four carriages, merely stopping to change horses at the Clarence Hotel. The Cathedral and other bells were rung, and, "the Dignitaries of the Cathedral, Mayor, Aldermen, etc, were in attendance to pay their respects, but the lateness of the hour prevented Her Royal Highness from alighting or partaking of an elegant entertainment provided by the Rev Chancellor POTT, at whose house the Dignitaries, Magistrates and military officers had been invited to meet her" A detachment of the 4th Dragoon Guards escorted the royal carriage into and through the city. Colonel WOOD one of H.R.H's suite, mistook the eccentric "Captain COOKE" for the Lord Lieutenant of the County. "No one who has remarked the chivalrous bearing of the gallant captain when on horseback and dressed in the gorgeous apparel of office, will contend that this error was not perfectly natural"
Sept 11, Witchcraft, The following anecdote vouched for by a correspondent in whom the editor "can implicitly rely" may probably be deemed a curiosity 50 years hence when School Boards shall have stamped out superstition, but will fail to excite surprise amongst those who are conversant with the beliefs still prevalent in the rural parts of Devon. "A farmer, residing about a mile from Ashburton, within the short space of about 2 months past, lost by death an excellent cow and five sheep. Last week another cow looking to calve was seized, as the farmer asserts, "in a most wonderful manner", it would roll its eyes about, that seemed at the same time to flash fire, rear and fly round the house [in which it was confined anticipating the expected event] on its hind legs, bellowing, so loud and horribly, as to terrify, not only the inmates of his own till lately happy dwelling, but also those of his distant neighbours, some of whom came to his assistance. One advised that Dr SAUNDERS of Ashburton, should be immediately called in. This was done and notwithstanding his extensive practise, he promptly arrived, prescribed, indeed administered with his own hand, and then took his departure, not so poor Colly's sufferings, she continued in the same deplorable state, at length another neighbour gravely pronounced his conviction that Farmer ? was bewitched, and strongly urged his friend to mount his horse instantly and consult the noted White Witch, residing in the neighbouring parish of Staverton. The suggestion was no sooner made, and the recollection of former fatal events recurring to the minds of the parties present, than the wonder was that it had not been thought of before, and without waiting the result of Dr SAUNDER'S specific, away goes the farmer to the seer, relates his distress, his suspicions, draws from his fob the fee, then is addressed as follows :- "Farmer ?, it is most true you are overlooked, and it is most fortunate that you have now applied to me. Betty ? [actually calling a poor inoffensive old woman by name] sometime since applied at your house for cyder, and you refused her, she is your evil genius, she has been the cause of your losses in revenge for your denial, and, but for your present visit to me, this cow would have also died. Her reign however is at an end, you may return home, you will find your cow perfectly recovered, and the evil eye reverted." Farmer ? followed his direction. On his arrival home, his cow had calved, was hearty and well, and Dr SALTER, not Dr SAUNDERS, enjoys the reputation of the cure. Now, the farmer well recollects his refusing the old woman cyder, and he and his friends firmly believe in the supernatural power of the White Witch"
Sept 25th,Lord Clinton and Mount Charles passed through Exeter yesterday on their way to Falmouth to receive the young Queen of Portugal. Several distinguished Portuguese refugees had lately landed at St Ives from Madeira and proceeded to Falmouth. Amongst them were General Valdez and Senor Carvalial, who had taken refuge on board H.M.S. Alligator, the captain of which vessel refused to yield to the demand for their surrender to the Portuguese Admiral on the station. The Queen [who was but 10 years old] landed with her suite at Falmouth on the 27th, and arrived at the Clench's New London Inn, Exeter, on the evening of the 28th, escorted by the 4th Irish Dragoon Guards. Next day she was received at the Cathedral by the Bishop and other dignitaries, and, after remaining for a short time at the Palace, took a drive in the suburbs.
Trewman's Flying Post June 11th, 1879
Exeter and its neighbourhood under George 1V-X
Selected and annotated by Robert DYMOND, F.S.A.
1828
Oct 16th, Gas was substituted for oil in lighting Paris St and St Sidwell's [The darkness of the suburbs of Exeter was still made visible by dismal oil lamps. The last survivors of these curiosities stood on Pennsylvania-hill down to about 1845]
Oct 23rd, The death at his residence Warfleet, Dartmouth of Mr Reuben PHILLIPS, Jnr, aged 41. "As a chemist he ranked with the most celebrated of the present day, and to his perseverance is the city of Exeter indebted for the introduction of gas, for an improved method of purifying, which he had a patent, which has since been generally adopted for the purpose of lighting the principal towns of the kingdom. For several years he had been one of the firm at the extensive paper manufactory at Warfleet, and in which his thorough knowledge of chemistry had enabled him to make considerable improvements. Mr PHILLIPS was a native of this city and the eldest son of Reuben PHILLIPS, Esq, for many years one of our acting magistrates" [A full length portrait of Mr PHILLIPS Snr is hung in the Guildhall]
1829
Jan 22nd, A great county meeting held at the Castle on the 16th, William LANGMEAD Esq, High Sheriff in the chair, resolved to petition Parliament against granting any further concessions to Roman Catholics, not without opposition by Lord Ebrington, J. W. BULLER, Esq and other Liberals. [The public excitement on this subject was intense at this time, and it was the testing question of the elections. It had its ludicrous phases too. One ardent Protestant withdrew his deposit at the Exeter Savings Bank under an impression that the Roman Catholic claims included the right to seize property of all Protestants in the banks. Another instance of the way in which party feeling was disseminated amongst the ignorant classes occurred in a town 12 miles from Exeter, where the managers of a Benefit Society gravely debated the proper course to be taken with their funds in the present critical state of affairs, and finally decided by a majority of one vote "That there was nothing to be feared from the Romans"!]
Jan 22nd, William Reginald COURTENAY Esq, late M.P, for Exeter, was presented with the freedom of the city on the 17th. March 19th, At a general meeting of the subscribers and the friends of the newly founded, "Devon and Exeter Botanical and Horticultural Society" 70 names were entered as members and a set of rules and regulations were adopted. The first exhibition was appointed to be held on the 9th July. Mr John GIDLEY was secretary.
March 26th, "The Commissioners of Improvement in this city have it in contemplation to widen South St, and slate to declivity of Bell Hill by removing the houses near the Conduit"
A destructive fire broke out between 3 and 4am on the 24th, in the malthouse of Mr JARDINE at Newton Abbott. The premises were destroyed and 6 men were killed by the falling of the building.
April 9th, Two men named HELSTON and TRETHEW, executed at the County Gaol, on the 4th, for a murderous assault on James JEFFRY, at Plympton, St Mary. A farmer amongst the crowd of spectators had his pockets picked of some sovereigns and other cash.
The Catholic Emancipation Act received the Royal Assent on the 13th.
May 14th, The West of England Bank [Messers FLOUD and Co] was broken in on Sunday night, the 10th and robbed of about £4,000 and some valuable papers. This led to the suspension of the bankers a few weeks later.
"A cocking match, for £100 a side, the best of 41 battles, will be fought at the Rising Sun, Crabtree, nr Plymouth, this week. Feeders Skelton and Pearce" An account in the next paper. "The birds were in excellent condition and the fighting could not have been better. Another main of cocks for a large sum will be fought, the second week in June, when Grant the Somerset feeder will be opposed to Pearce. Betting on the event is already brisk"
May 31st, The enlargement of the parish church of St Thomas, Exeter is proceeding.
June 18th, The new organ at Heavitree Church will be ready for use on Sunday next.
July 23rd, Commencement and construction of a new and level turnpike road from Cowley Bridge towards Stoke Canon, by which the high and steep road by Stoke Hill and Marypole Head will be avoided.
Aug 20th, "We are gratified to find Mr William WEBB FOLLETT, the barrister son of Benjamin FOLLETT Esq of Topsham, is making such rapid progress on this Circuit, Mr FOLLETT having had no less than 24 briefs at out Lammas Assizes, being more than any other learned gentleman at the bar. We think that Mr FOLLETT bids fair to attain the height of his honourable profession, and being one of our own county, we sincerely hope he may continue that successful course which marked the life of the late much to be lamented Lord Gifford."
Kezia WESCOMBE, 32 and Richard QUAINTANCE, 35, having been found guilty, the former of poisoning her husband, at Whipton, and the latter of inciting her to the deed, were executed at the County Gaol on the 17th. The body of WESCOMBE was sent to the hospital for dissection and that of QUAINTANCE delivered to his friends, this part of the sentence as regarded the latter, being remitted by the judge. From 12 to 15 thousand persons are stated to have witnessed the execution.
Sept 17th, In a letter to the Editor, Mr Edward UPHAM, 245 High St, states that he had been engaged for nearly half a century in collecting materials for a history of his native city, and he invites assistance from those who possess historical notes, sketches of old buildings etc. He fears that his age and state of health will prove impediments to the production of a satisfactory work unless he receives the encouragement and assistance of others. [What has become of this collection of materials?]
Oct 1st, The house now occupied by the Rev Precentor COOK, in the Close, Barley House, St Thomas, the property of J. S. G. SAWLE Esq, Mamhead House belonging to R. W. NEWMAN Esq, and Hoopern on Pennsylvannia Hill, the residence of Edmund P. LYON Esq, were all in course of erection at this time.
Oct 22nd, A correspondent, signing himself, "A lover of their Sex" stigmatises the fashionable "Bishop's Sleeves" worn by ladies as, "ridiculous, unbecoming, inconvenient and dangerous"
Nov 12th, The parish church of St Petrock, Exeter, having been enlarged and repaired, is to be opened for Divine service on Sunday next, the Rev William OXNAM, the Rector, officiating. Mr C. HEDGELAND was the architect and Mr Charles FORCE the builder employed. The seating is entirely new, and "the altar-piece of freestone is a neat piece of workmanship by Mr DAVEY, of this city, statuary" The new organ was by Mr THOMAS of this city and Mr Kellow PYE was the parish organist.
Accounts of duels appear very frequently at the period, even the Duke of Wellington fought one with the Earl of Winchelsea in March last. These and other causes and the frequent notices of elopements, of actions for crim, con, and such like doings amongst people of quality, evince a very lax state or morality in the higher classes of society, and a craving for scandal in the newspaper reading public. The Court was vicious, the Church supine, and the natural results followed.
Dec 10th, Mount Radford School passed into the hands of the late Rev Charles Rodwell ROPER
Dec 31st, The Exe frozen over and crowded with skaters and sliders.
A meeting of citizens at the Guildhall to raise subscriptions for the relief of the distressed occasioned by want of employment by the poor.
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