 
1861.Jan. 2nd.—The poor rate assessment had been raised some £14,000, and a 1s. 2d. rate thereon made. Mr. F. Ferrier (Deputy Coroner) had held an inquest on the body of Thomas Algar, the clown who had expired at the Theatre immediately after the performance on the previous Friday. The deceased was 34 years of age, and left a widow and one child. The verdict was that deceased died from “natural causes”; Mr. C. C. Aldred (the Surgeon) and the Jury gave their fees to the family. Jan. 5th.—The Revenue cutter, in attempting to run for the harbour, had fouled the pier and was sunk. Jan. 12th.—“The strong frost had literally stopped the river traffic.” It had been decided to give £124 worth of coal to the poor. Jan. 19th.—A public meeting had been held to raise funds for that purpose. The Mayor presided, and the following gentlemen took part in the proceedings:—Mr. W. Worship, the Rev. B. Vaux, Mr. R. Steward, Mr. C. C. Aldred, Mr. R. Hammond, Mr. T. Brightwen, Mr. C. Cory, Mr. L. Blake, and Mr. E. H. L. Preston. Sir E. Lacon sent a cheque for £50, and £350 was subscribed in the room. Jan. 26th.—Dr. Stephenson had been appointed Surgeon for the South District. The “Racehorse” (belonging to George Danby-Palmer, Esq.), had been abandoned near Cape Horn. There had been a mutiny on board her, and a naval Court was inquiring into the affair at Calloa. Jan. 30th.—The Guardians were calling attention to the “Compulsory Vaccination Act.” Mr. Henry R. Harmer had been appointed a Chancery Commissioner. Feb. 6th.—At a Vestry meeting it had been determined to take a poll of the parish as to whether the Vestry Act (13 and 14 Vic. cap. 57) should be applied to the parish. Feb. 9th.—Two hundred and eighty-eight appeals had been lodged against the Poor’s Rate. Feb. 16th—“Costerton v. Lacon” had been tried. In this action the plaintiff, a solicitor at Yarmouth, complained of having been slandered by the defendant, who was M.P. for the town, and who ultimately consented to a verdict against him for 40s. and costs. Feb. 20th.—The poll of the parish had closed as under:—
Mr. Clowes then proposed, and Mr. Livingston seconded, a resolution to the effect that a Vestry Clerk be appointed at a salary of £100 per annum, and ultimately this was carried, and a vote of thanks to the Vicar and his assessor (C. J. Palmer, Esq.), terminated the proceedings. Feb. 23rd.—The Conservatives had adopted Mr. C. H. Chamberlin (a Liberal) as their candidate for the office of Vestry Clerk, the other candidate being Mr. S. B. Cory. Feb. 27th.—The case of Morant v. Chamberlin (which involved the right of user of part of the Quay by George Danby-Palmer, Esq.), had been decided as follows: “Verdict for plaintiff, issue on the 4th plea for defendant.” March 2nd.—The Prince of Wales had visited the town “incog.” March 6th.—One Cox, “a magician of Friars’ Lane,” had been before the Justices. March 9th.—The Hon. Harbord Harbord had been hunting the district with his pack of harriers during the week. Part of a house had been blown down on the Regent Road. March 13th.—The Artillery Corps had adopted white (in lieu of blue) facings to their uniform. March 16th.—The Fitzroy storm signals had been hoisted in the town. Major Orde, Mr. Chamberlin, and Captain Holmes had given readings from Dickens’ works in the saloon of the Victoria gardens before the members of the Rifle Corps and their friends; Captain Holmes was expected to be appointed adjutant of this corps. March 30th.—“Cufaude v Cory” had been heard at the Assizes. In this action damages were claimed by the plaintiff, Clerk to the Guardians against the defendant, Mr. S. B. Cory, for an alleged libel, he having stated in a handbill that Mr. Cufaude “cooked” the parish accounts. Mr. O’Malley, Q.C., Mr. Power, Q.C., Mr. Keene and Mr. Cherry were for the plaintiff, and Mr. Palmer and Mr. Hotson for the defendant. The Jury found for the plaintiff with £500 damages. April 3rd.—“The nocturnal jokes” were again the subject of inquiry; Mr. E. O. Johnson (a Volunteer Sergeant) had been discovered by a policeman taking away Dr. Smyth’s bell, but as that gentleman would not prosecute, the charge dropped. Mr. J. H. Harrison then made a complaint to the Court of damages to his property by these “jokers.” At the Vestry Meeting, Mr. R. Hammond proposed, and Mr. W. Worship seconded, the re-election of Mr. S. C. D. Steward as one of the Churchwardens, and Mr. Fenn proposed, and Mr. Laws seconded, the re-election of Mr. E. R. Aldred as the other warden, “and the Minister accepted the second nomination as his warden.” N.B.—This was the first attempt by a Vicar to take action of this sort, (the right of election of both Churchwardens being vested in the Vestry of the parish.) North Ward—S. Nightingale, E. H. L. Preston, and J. B. Hylton. Market Ward—C. C. Aldred, W. Laws, and J. Fenn. Regent Ward—W. Worship, R. D. Barber, and D. A. Gourlay. St. George’s Ward—J. G. Plummer, C. E. Bartram, and C. Miller. Nelson Ward—T. Brightwen, C. Woolverton, W. C. Reynolds, and J. Clarke. It was stated that only 7s. 6d. had been subscribed by the lodging-house keepers to the Race Fund. April 10th.—It was understood that the Chairman and a majority of the Board of Guardians were favourable to the admission of Reporters to the Board meetings. “Great reductions” had been made upon the Poor’s Rate appeals. April 13th.—Captain Holmes had been appointed Adjutant to the Rifle Volunteers. Sir J. Walsham had held an inquiry as to the allegations with regard to the parish accounts, which had been alluded to in the recent action of “Cufaude v. Cory.” Mr. Hotson attended it on behalf of Mr. Cory. April 17th.—Two batteries of Royal Artillery had arrived in the town. April 20th.—A gunboat, with the men of the Revenue cutter on board, had run into the pier-head. An illuminated clock had been placed at the Sailors’ Home. A rule “nisi” had been granted in the action of “Cufaude v. Cory” on the ground of excessive damages. April 27th.—The “Harmony,” missionary ship, had been launched from Messrs. Fellows’ yard. There had been “numerous” arrivals of invalids from India at the R.N. Hospital. May 1st.—Solomon Levy, a converted Jew, had been baptised at St. Peter’s Church, F. Worship, Esq., standing “as witness to the Baptism.” Afterwards the Rev. Bowyer Vaux preached from Titus iii, 5. May 4th.—The Rifle Volunteers had held a “Mess” at the Star Hotel, when Host Diver catered for them.
The Rifle Volunteers, 200 strong, had attended St. Nicholas’ Church. The leading fish-merchants proposed to purchase two fast steamers as carriers to the London markets. May 11th.—Mr. Evans was sitting at the Town Hall to take evidence on the claims of the Ormesby and Scratby people to exemption from payment of Market Tolls at Yarmouth. May 18th.—So few mackerel had been brought in, that they were selling at 1s. each. May 22nd.—A very old house (formerly part of the Convent) had fallen down in Friars’ lane. There had been two military rows between the Royal Artillery and the E.N. Militiamen. May 25th.—The Mayor and Magistrates had met Major Martin (E.N.M.) and Colonel Bruce (R.A.) on this subject, and steps had been taken to prevent the men meeting again. May 29th.—“Mace,” the local pugilist, (being known in the neighbourhood) was being heavily “backed” for the fight for the championship. June 1st.—Sergeant Seeley (E.N.M.) had died from the effects of choking himself by swallowing a piece of meat. A “handsome new schooner” had been launched by Mr. Brandford. A “considerable number” of new fishing and pleasure boats were being built at the port. June 8th.—The mackerel voyage had been very unsuccessful. A “Turkish” bath was to be opened in a few week’s time. June 15th—Mr. Frederick Danby-Palmer had passed the legal examination (in honors.) A case of alleged “Witchcraft” at Gorleston had occupied the Bench. June 19th.—At a meeting of the Ratepayers Mr. J. Clowes proposed, and Mr. Burroughs seconded, Mr. S. B. Cory as a proper person to fill the office of Vestry Clerk. Mr. Livingstone, Mr. Neave and Mr. Royal also took part in these proceedings. June 22nd.—At the Vestry meeting, held for the election of that officer, Mr. George Danby-Palmer proposed and Mr. Livingstone seconded Mr. S. B. Cory, and Mr. Charles Cory proposed, and Mr. G. A. Clarke seconded, Mr. C. H. Chamberlin. The proceedings were of a most disorderly character, terminating “in a talk of many tongues, which accused each other of being ‘liars’ and so on.” June 24th.—At 12 o’clock the poll stood—
Mr. Cory and Mr. George Danby-Palmer then addressed the electors, and votes of thanks to the Vicar (Rev. H. Nevill) and his assessor (Mr. C. J. Palmer) terminated the proceedings. June 29th.—The election for, and meeting of, the “Eastern Counties Asylum of Idiots” had taken place at the Town Hall. The Mayor presided, and there were also present, Sir Thomas Beevor, Bart., Rev. July 3rd.—M. Desfongerais had been appointed Consul for the French Government at Yarmouth, and had appeared for a French vessel in an adjudication case, held before F. Worship and F. Palmer, Esqs. July 10th.—Mr. S. B. Cory had commenced his duties of Vestry Clerk. The mackerel fishing was a failure, and the Summer fishing “very slow.” July 17th.—At the Water Frolic, the “Red Rover” won the cutter, and the “Vampire” the lateen, prize. The Rev. H. Squire had, after a pastorate of 30 years, resigned the Unitarian Chapel Ministry. July 20th.—Messrs. C. J. Palmer, C. C. Aldred. W. Johnson, C. Cory, and J. Brightwen had been appointed a Committee to carry on the proposal to found a Grammar School in the town. A “furious tempest, including thunder, whirlwind, and lightning” had burst over the town. July 31st.—Mr. Lane had claimed £300 damages for libel against the Free Press Newspaper Company, but under the advice of the Chief Justice, a Juror was withdrawn, each party paying their own costs. Aug. 7th.—The Vestry Clerk and the Overseers could not “gee” together. Aug. 10th.—At the Regatta, the “Queen Victoria” and “Volunteer” won the yawl matches, and the “Red Rover” and the “Belvidere,” the pleasure-boat matches. The yacht match fell through in consequence of only two vessels being prepared to sail in it. Aug. 14th.—A number of noisy women outside the Police Court, on the hearing of the claims to be excused payment of the Poor’s Rate, had “mobbed” the Vestry Clerk and had in short “taken possession of the Court and its entrance.” Aug. 17th.—The Rifle Volunteers were holding their Prize Shooting Match on the North Denes. Messrs. Wilshak, Ferrier, and Swann had won prizes. A great shoal of dog-fish had visited the Eastern coast. Mr. S. B. Cory had been presented with a sum of money to cover his expenses occasioned by the contest for the office of Vestry Clerk. The old Dutch Clock on the South Quay was “to go.” It had been stated that the custom prevailed of winding it up “with a hammer.” Aug. 28th.—Two ladies had been robbed of their watches on the Wellington Pier. Sept. 7th.—The Volunteers were drilling for the review at Holkham. The Race Ball had been attended by the Mayor, Lady and Miss Lacon, Mr. M. Lacon, Mr. Blake Humphrey, Mr. Blofeld, Captain and Mrs. Warren, Captain and Mrs. Dods, Lieut. Daveney, Captain Travers, Mr. Bedingfield, Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Palmer, Captain Dunne, Mr. Magnay, Captain Jervois, Mr. Stracey, Captain Turnour, R.N., Captain Ensor, Miss Wilson, Mr. and Mrs. F. Frere, Mr. and Mrs. H. Frere, Mr. and Mrs. Falcke and party, Mr. and Mrs. Brown, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer, Mr. Button, Mr. Martin, Mr. and Mrs. Gosnall, Mr. Rising, Mr. Waters, &c. The Drapers (with one exception) had agreed to close on Thursdays at four o’clock. Sep. 18th.—The Volunteer Corps under the command of Major Marsh and Major Orde, had attended the Review at Holkham. Sept. 18th.—The Volunteers had, after their return from Holkham, “annoyed and disturbed the inhabitants by an irregular firing of musketry” in the streets. A young actor, having gone mad through love for a lady in the town, had been taken to the Workhouse, where the lady’s portrait and letters were found upon him. Sept. 25th—Capt. Tomlinson had won the cup in the Volunteer Officers’ Shooting Match with 10 points, Captains Youell and Holt making 8 points each. The following also competed:—Captain Barber, Lieutenants Harmer and Moore, and Ensigns Brown and Aldred. Sept. 28th.—The Rev. C. Voysey had been presented with a private Communion Service by the poor attendants at the Wherrymen’s Church upon his leaving Yarmouth. A grand bowling match had been held on the Bear Green between the bowlers of Yarmouth and Lowestoft. The latter won by 9 to 6 games. Oct. 2nd.—Mr. E. P. Youell was mentioned as the next Mayor. He was described as “not a prejudiced partizan on either side.” The following was the list of winners:— “Tradesmen’s Cup,” Mr. Fyson; 2nd prize, Mr. Hudspith. “A Neck Pin,” Captain Youell; “A Cup,” Mr. Wilshak; and other prizes Messrs. Gunton, Teasdel, Banham, Osborn, Kennett, and Swann. “The Ladies’ Challenge Cup,” Mr. Fenner; and “The Officers’ Cup,” Captain Tomlinson. Oct. 12th.—Extensive repairs were being carried on at the Southtown Barracks. Oct. 23rd.—It was stated that Mr. Palmer was to be the new Mayor. Mr. D. Hogarth (Postmaster) had died. Oct. 26th.—The Lord Bishop had held a Confirmation in the Parish Church. Eleven hundred persons had been excused from payment of the Poor’s Rate. Oct. 30th.—Mr. Neave and Mr. Livingston (Radicals) were going to contest the North and Regent Wards respectively. In St. Andrew’s Ward, a meeting of electors had determined to again nominate Mr. R. Steward (Tory) and Mr. W. T. Clarke (Liberal) in a “if ye’ll claw me, I’ll claw ye; style of pastime.” An alarming fire had happened in Row 145, the centre of a thickly populated district; Mr. Self’s premises chiefly suffered, his damage being estimated at £300. The Justices had signed a 1s. 2d. Poor’s Rate. Nov. 2nd.—The trawling business was increasing, 100 smacks then hailing from the port. Two new vessels had been launched at Southtown, one for Mr. Womack and one for Mr. Powell. Mr. Todd had also built a new smack called the “Christiana.” Nov. 6th.—Alarming and destructive gales had raged along the whole coast on the 1st of November, and 27 shipwrecked seamen had been received at the Sailors’ Home.
Nov. 13th.—At the Council meeting Mr. C. C. Aldred proposed, and Mr. Shingles seconded, Mr. Robert Steward as Mayor, and he was elected accordingly. Nov. 20th.—There were between 200 and 300 fishing vessels at sea during the recent gales, of which only 30 luggers were then unaccounted for. About 100 lasts of fish had been delivered on the Quay on the previous Saturday, when prices ranged from £15 upwards. A new Lifeboat had been stationed near the Britannia Pier. Nov. 23rd.—Among the smacks which had been injured in the gale was Mr. Todd’s new vessel the “Christiana;” some of this owner’s other vessels had suffered damage, and his loss was estimated altogether at £1,000. Nov. 27th.—Mr. Downing’s fish-offices had been destroyed by fire. The Artillery Volunteers had salved a boat and obtained £7 salvage money to the annoyance of the Beachmen The Parish Authorities “remained at loggerheads” with the Vestry Clerk. In the opinion of the inhabitants the “robes question” seemed only a plan to run up a bill for another “folly.” The Police had been furnished with “Southwester” hats. Dec. 4th.—It was stated that the robe business had cropped up, as the Mayor was going to Court, and it was felt
Herring was making £35 per last, and 1,000 packages of trawl fish had been forwarded to the market. Dec. 11th.—The Lands Committee had decided that the Mayor, Town-clerk, and Messrs. Collins, Ellis and Thompson (the officers) should wear gowns, but no head gear had been decided upon for them. Dec. 14th.—“Deerfoot,” an American runner, had been performing in the town, when he accomplished 10 miles in 53 minutes. The Treasurer to the Rifle Corps (Mr. Clarke) and the Quarter-Master (Mr. C. Diver) were about to be appointed Supernumerary Lieutenants. Dec. 18th.—Owing to the death of the Prince Consort, the paper appeared in mourning. The flags had been hoisted at half-mast on the Town Hall and other public buildings on receipt of this mournful news. Dec. 21st.—The Artillery Volunteers had given an entertainment at the Theatre. Dec. 25th.—There had been a Special Service at St. Nicholas’ Church on the occasion of the funeral of the Prince Consort, when the Vicar preached from the text, “And the King said unto his servants, know ye not that there is a Prince and a great man fallen this day in Israel.” Sam. iii., 38. At the close of the service the “Dead March” in Saul was played, and the Rifle Volunteers returned with muffled drums, the bells ringing at the same time. The Town Council met and voted an address of condolence to Her Majesty. Dec. 28th.—A special service had also been held at the Synagogue, commencing with Psalms 13, 19, 15, and 85, and concluding with a prayer for the Queen and the Royal Family, after which, on the motion of Mr. Pyke, an address of condolence to the Queen and Royal Family was adopted. The Rifle Corps had again on the invitation of Major Orde visited Hopton. 1862.Jan. 4th.—Parcels containing Christmas fare “had fallen among thieves” on the Railway. Jan. 8th.—Up to the 30th ult., 9,257 offers had been received and 8,229 Volunteers enrolled in the Royal Naval Reserve; of this number 24 held Masters’ Certificates, 116 Mates’ Certificates, and the force embraced 1,148 petty officers in the Merchant Service. Jan. 15th.—Two pugilists named Foxall and Chambers, (who were occasionally employed as Beachmen), had engaged in a prize fight. “Ducky” Chambers was the winner. Jan. 18th.—Major Orde, Captain Youell, and C. H. Chamberlin, Esq., had been entertaining the Rifle Volunteers at the Drill Hall with “Readings from Modern Authors.” It was again proposed to start a Conservative Newspaper in Yarmouth. Jan. 25th.—At the Gorleston Vestry Meeting the Church Rate was not pressed for. Feb. 8th.—The Corporation’s costs in “Morant v. Chamberlin” amounted to £1,402 17s. 6d. Feb. 19th.—Mr. A. W. Morant had resigned his commission in the Artillery Volunteers. A cargo of pickled herrings had arrived from Norway. Feb. 22nd.—Messrs. Hewett and Co. were about to transfer the greater part of their trawling business to Gorleston; thus about 100 families would be transferred from Barking to that village. The Anniversary Dinner of the “Pioneer” Lodge, No. 262 M.U.I.O.F., had been held at the Foundry Arms, Bro. Wells in the chair. March 12th.—Private H. Fenner (Champion Rifle Volunteer Shot) had been elected a Sergeant. March 15th.—The Anniversary Dinner of the “Prince of Wales” Lodge, M.U.I.O.F., had been held at the Fish-Stall House, P.G. Robins in the chair and P.G. Crome vice-chair. In the Divorce Court, the case of “Burroughs v Burroughs and Silcock” had resulted in the jury finding that the charges made against each party by the other were groundless; consequently the petitioner failed in his suit. March 22nd.—Mr. Henry Danby-Palmer had died suddenly. April 2nd.—The Mayor had called a meeting to forward the proposal for holding a Volunteer Review at Yarmouth. The Mayor (Mr. R. Steward), Mr. R. Ferrier, Mr. D. R. Fowler, Mr. C. J. Palmer, Mr. W. Worship, Mr. J. Clowes, and Mr. S. Nightingale took part in the proceedings, and about £250 was subscribed in the room. April 16th.—The East Suffolk Artillery Militia was stationed at the Southtown Barracks. April 26th.—Colonel Adair (commanding that Regiment) had delivered a lecture at the Corn Hall “On the land defences of the Eastern Counties.” Upon this Regiment leaving; the Norfolk Artillery Militia, under Colonel Astley, were to occupy the Barracks for five weeks. At the Vestry Meeting, Mr. R. Hammond proposed, and Mr. Bracey seconded, the re-election of Mr. C. S. D. Steward; and Mr. Hylton proposed, and Mr. Shingles seconded, the re-election of Mr. E. R. Aldred. April 30th.—Colonel Pippon had inspected the E.N.M. on the South Denes, when the Regiment mustered 700 rank and file. “Tom Sayers’” Circus had attended the Fair. May 3rd.—Owing to want of funds the Parish Beadle at Gorleston had been discharged. May 7th.—The first stone of the New Bethel had been laid. This building was to replace the old Bethel which for so many years had been held in the ancient house, belonging for several generations to the Palmer family, near the Sailors’ Home. May 14th.—It was proposed to erect a Memorial to the late Prince Consort in the town. May 17th.—C. J. Palmer, Esq., had presented the Corporation with a scarlet silk gown and black gown formerly worn by the Mayors as robes of office. The following table of precedence had been drawn up by the Council:— 1.—The Mayor. 2.—The Recorder. 3.—The Town Clerk. 4.—The M.P.’s for the Borough. 5.—The Members of the Council who had served the office of Mayor according to priority of election. 6.—The Aldermen and Councillors according to priority of election, the former in Wards in which they resided, the latter in the Wards for which they were elected, commencing with the North Ward. At the Parish Audit, the Auditor remarked that “in some instances the amount (of the rate) excused exceeded the sum collected.” May 17th.—The following appears as to the Corporate Robes of Office:—
May 21st.—There had been an “Uproarious Vestry Meeting,” held for the object of passing a vote of censure on the Vestry Clerk; Mr. S. C Marsh presided, and in the result, the meeting being in favour of the Vestry Clerk, a poll was demanded. May 29th.—This poll had, after a protest by Mr. J. Clowes as to the regularity of the proceedings, been taken by Mr. C. Diver (acting as Assessor). It closed on the first day—
And next morning Mr. Marsh attended and declared the poll closed. May 28th.—Five vessels of war (part of the Channel fleet) were in the Roads. May 31st.—The following ships were anchored abreast of the Jetty:—“Trafalgar” (86), Captain Dickson; the “Revenge” (91), Captain Fellowes; the “Emerald” (51), Captain Caning; the “Chanticleer” (17), Captain Sterling; and the “Porpoise” (tender to the “Revenge.”) June 4th.—This issue contains the following account of
June 7th.—At the Channel Fleet Ball among those present were the Mayor, the Town Clerk, Sir E. Lacon, M.P., Admiral Smart, Captain Fellowes, R.N., Captain Egerton, R.N., Lieutenant the Hon. F. Gordon, Mr. and Miss I. Preston, Lord W. Kerr and other naval officers, Mr. and Mrs. E. H. L. Preston, Mr. and Mrs. C. C. Aldred, Misses Cubitt, Mr. A. and Misses Steward, &c. Next day a large number of persons visited the fleet, and dancing took place on the ships’ decks. Colonel Ibetson had inspected the Rifle Volunteers on the Denes. The “Ino” (a pleasure boat) had capsized when alongside the “St. George,” but all the people in her were saved. June 11th.—At the Vestry Meeting, the “Small Tenements Act” was proposed to be applied to the parish. Several houses and men had been struck by lightning during a thunderstorm. June 14th.—The programme for the Volunteer Review had been published; it was expected that 3,324 men would take part in it. June 18th.—The Dinner to the Volunteers on this occasion was to take place on St. George’s Denes; there were to be 17 tables, and the dining room to cover 7,550 feet of ground. One quart of beer per man had been offered by Sir E. Lacon to the Volunteers. June 21st.—The Review had taken place and proved a great success: there were 3,324 men actually on the Denes. At the Dinner held on St. George’s Denes, the Mayor presided, and after giving the toasts June 28th.—Major Marsh (of the artillery) had resigned his commission. July 2nd.—It was stated that Major Marsh would be succeeded in his command by Capt. John Lee Barber of the 1st Company, but Mr. Trafford was stated to have also resigned, and it was rumoured that the Artillery was likely to be amalgamated with the Rifle Corps. July 9th.—The Midsummer herring voyage was a failure. Some attributed this to the 130 smacks then fishing from the port, and others to the early catches of immature fish. July 12th.—“Blondin” had been performing at the Victoria Gardens. July 16th.—Commissioner Cane had been holding an inquiry at the Workhouse to “ascertain the nature of the duties of the various public officers and method of their discharge.” July 19th.—Mr. Henry R. Harmer had been appointed an Admiralty Commissioner. July 23rd.—There had been a poll at Gorleston upon the Church Rate question, which had resulted in a majority of 142 against that impost. The Caister Lifeboat had been struck by lightning while on the Beach and several persons who were taking shelter under her bow injured. Aug. 6th.—Contains the following notice of “The Water Frolic:—This event, which was formerly important from the fact of the ‘new’ Mayor being then chosen, and the official barge of the Mayor and Corporation being present, came off on Monday afternoon, at that part of the Waveney opposite Burgh Castle. No official patronage was given to the affair, and consequently it was not, municipally, of any weight. But as the weather was fine and sunny, with a ‘spanking’ southerly breeze, the yachts, which had arranged to attend and compete in two races, were sure of good sport, and the large crowds of persons who assembled early in the day on the North Quay, augured well for the steamboats which Mr. Fill—a worthy man of enterprise—always offers for the accommodation of the public (pay or not pay) either for trips to Cromer and Southwold, or even to Rotterdam fair, an event which East Anglians of old were wont to delight in. At Burgh there was a large assemblage of craft—wherries, ships’ boats, punts, yachts, and, in fact, anything that would safely float. Two matches were announced to take place, each for a stake value at £10, and the ordinary river yachts were the competitors, with the exception of the new and mischievous-looking boat of the High Sheriff of Norfolk—a boat which, although it could not out-run Mr. Barber’s ‘Flying Wanderer,’ will yet do credit to her build. The ‘public-house wherries,’ the pie stalls, the acrobats, and the rest of the contributors to the day’s fun were all active and appeared to do a good business. The yachting competition—which the public ought to have considered the best business of the day—began with a match for £10, in which five cutter-rigged yachts sailed, viz., Mr. Barber’s ‘Wanderer,’ Mr. Nightingale’s ‘Red Rover,’ Mr. Read’s ‘Belvidere,’ Mr. R. J. H. Harvey’s ‘Lady in White,’ and Mr. Morgan’s ‘Bittern.’ The Wanderer had the advantage throughout, and won—although she was occasionally closely pressed by the Red Rover. The match extended over four rounds. In the second match for a similar stake by latteens the ‘Vampire’ (Mr. Everett), the ‘Enchantress’ (Mr. Green), and the ‘Merlin’ (Mr. Humfrey) started, and continued in the order named to the close. The ‘frolicers’ then commenced their homeward journey, and in the midst of music and song all arrived safely, we believe, at the August 13th.—The “Order of Precedence of the members of the Council” had been printed. The Mayor had requested the members of that body to accompany him to church on Sundays, Good Friday, and Christmas Day. Mr. S. Nightingale had backed his “Red Rover” against Mr. Barber’s “Wanderer” for four matches at £50 aside. Thieves had “drank the Sacramental wine and robbed the Poor’s box” at the Independent Chapel, Gorleston. August 16th.—At the Races, none of the Stewards (who were Lord W. Powlett, Count Batthyany, and Sir H. J. Stracey, Bart., M.P.,) had attended, and the usual Ball at the Town Hall had not been held through lack of patronage. August 20th.—The Yarmouth Cricket Club had played the “Visitors.” The score was:—First Innings: Yarmouth, 29; Visitors, 15. Second Innings: Yarmouth, 89; Visitors, 32. Grand Totals: Yarmouth, 118; Visitors, 47. August 23rd.—It was proposed to raise a Rifle Corps at Ormesby. August 27th.—Sir H. Stracey, had invited the members of the Corporation to spend a day at Rackheath. August 30th.—Sir E. Lacon, Bart., had been gazetted Major of the N.A.V., (vice Marsh resigned.) Sept. 3rd.—It was, at the Corporation’s visit to Rackheath, distinctly understood that Sir H. Stracey would offer himself again as a candidate for the Borough, and that Mr. Watkin was pledged to come forward again in the Liberal interest. The Council had determined to place an illuminated clock on the Town Hall. The Southtown Barracks had been repaired at considerable expense. Sept. 6th.—At the rifle prize shooting, Colour-Sergeant Chipperfield had taken the ladies’ challenge cup from Sergeant Fenner by one point. Corporal Denew had won the Chief Officers’ prize, and Sergeant Dick the Borough Members’ prize. Sept. 10th.—This shooting had been continued, and prizes won by Sergeant Pearson, Sergeant Swann, and Volunteer Barrett. Sept. 17th.—The High Sheriff of Norfolk had given a grand Volunteer Review and FÊte at Crown Point, the Norfolk Artillery In the afternoon, the Volunteers and some 2,000 guests were entertained at dinner in marquees erected for the purpose, and various amusements provided. The following Yarmouth names appear in the list of the competitors for the prizes:—Major Orde, Lieut. C. Diver, and Privates Mark Waters, Isaac Preston, J. B. Pearce, and C. Marsh, while among the guests were the following ladies and gentlemen from this locality:—Col. and Mrs. Baddeley, Mr. and Mrs. J. Brown, junr., Mr. B. Button, Mr. and Mrs. F Clowes, Capt. and Mrs. Cubitt, Mr. and Mrs. Daniel, Mr. and Mrs. Frere, Mr. and Mrs. Harmer, Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Lady Lacon, Capt. and Mrs. Lacon, Mr. T. Matravers, the Mayor of Yarmouth, Lieut. G. W. and Mrs. Moore, Lieut. and Mrs. Morant, Mr. Nightingale, Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Palmer, Mr. and Mrs. W. Danby-Palmer, Mr. and Mrs. F. Palmer, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer, Mr. and Miss I. Preston, the Rev. J. J. and Mrs. Raven, Mr. W. C. Reynolds, Mr. R. Rising, Capt. Rivers, Mr. and Mrs. S. Reeve, Capt. Turnour, Ensign and Mrs. Watling, Mr. W. and Mrs. Worship, Lieut. and Mrs. Wynyard, and Mr. E. P. and Mrs. Youell. Next day the High Sheriff also entertained upwards of 4,000 poor people at Crown Point. Sept. 20th.—Mr. Fenner and Mr. Chipperfield had been shooting well at the County Association Meeting. Messrs. Youell and Co., (Florists) had won two prizes at the Kensington Autumn Flower Show. Sept. 27th.—The Liberals claimed a gain of 50 upon the revision of the Borough Voters’ List, and it was stated the “the Liberal cause was much indebted to Mr. J. Eagleton, their Yarmouth agent, whose exertions in the Registration Court, in which the late Sir R. Peel said elections were to be won, had been unceasing.” Mr. G. V. Brooke was attracting crowded houses at the Theatre. Oct. 4th.—A French and an English corvette were on this station to protect the fisheries. Mr. Chamberlin had appeared before the Justices in support of an application against the form of the Poor’s Rate, but the Court had overruled his objections. Oct. 15th.—At the Quarter Sessions, the Recorder (N. Palmer, Esq.) made an order quashing the Poor’s Rate. Mr. C. Cooper appeared on behalf of Mr. J. Clowes as appellant, against the Churchwardens and Overseers, respondents in this case. At the Police Court, Mr. Gardiner, Editor of the Yarmouth Independent, craved sureties of the peace against Mr. J. H. Harrison, when, although the defendant called no evidence to rebut the charge made against him, the Bench (by a majority of two) decided against calling upon him to find sureties. The complainant said he expected this when he saw such a “drum up” of Magistrates “who had been brought there as on Licensing day.” Oct. 18th.—A narrative of the proceedings at the Volunteer Review had been prepared by Mr. C. J. Palmer, and published. Oct. 22nd.—There had been disastrous storms at sea, and it was known that four vessels had foundered in the roads. The retiring Councillors were—North Ward: H. Boulter and W. N. Burroughs. Market Ward: F. Worship and C. C. Aldred. Regent Ward: S. C. Marsh and S. B. Cory. St. George’s Ward: J. G. Plummer and J. C. Smith. Nelson Ward: G. Danby Palmer and C. E. Bartram. St. Andrew’s Ward: E. H. L. Preston and H. Teasdel. One thousand persons had visited the Exhibition (London) by a cheap train. Oct. 25th.—The Mayor had entertained a large party of invited guests at the Town Hall. The Dutchmen had already arrived “in the schuyts or sea-tubs” for the fishing. Nov. 1st.—Several shipments of herring had been made for the Mediterranean. Nov. 5th.—At the Municipal election Mr. Mainprice had taken the place of Mr. Burroughs (who retired), and Mr. Rose had ousted Mr. S. B. Cory, who refused “to the curb to yield.” Nov. 8th.—Line fishing from boats and the Britannia Pier had become a fashionable amusement. Nov. 12th.—The Town Council had voted an address of loyalty to the Queen, and to the Prince of Wales, upon the latter attaining his majority. Nov. 19th.—The prizes recently shot for by the Rifle Volunteers had been distributed at the Victoria Gardens by the Mayor. Nov. 22nd.—The local Charity Trustees’ scheme for the establishment of a Grammar School had been approved by the Charity Commissioners. The Lancashire Relief Committee was in full work, and the following articles had been forwarded to Manchester:—63 coats, 70 cloaks and shawls, 21 dresses, 20 children’s frocks, 20 blankets and quilts, 28 pairs of boots, 42 flannel waistcoats and shirts, 34 pairs of trousers, 36 hats, and 361 other articles of clothing. In one day 1,500 lasts of herring had been brought into the harbour. Nov. 26th.—A public meeting in aid of the Lancashire Relief Fund had been held (the Mayor in the chair), and £160 subscribed in the room. Dec. 13th.—Two hundred barrels of herring had been sent to Manchester for the Relief Fund by the fish merchants. Dec. 17th.—The following rota of magistrates for salvage purposes had been appointed:—R. Hammond, E. H. L. Preston, J. W. Shelly, R. Steward. B. Jay, J. Clark, J. Fenn, and P. Pullyn. Dec. 20th.—During the week more than 600 articles of wearing apparel had been forwarded to Manchester for the Relief Fund. The fishing had proved a “successful and profitable season.” Dec. 24th.—Mr. Rust had launched a fine new brig for the Mediterranean trade. Dec. 27th.—£850 had been raised for the Lancashire Relief Fund. The town tolls had let as follows:—Market, £550 per annum; Fish Market, £55; and Ballastage, £660; the lessees being Messrs. Bowen and Co. of Leeds. Dec. 31st.—Steps were being taken to induce the Norfolk Agricultural Association to visit Yarmouth. The Rev. B. Vaux had presided at the Hospital meeting. The Artillery and Rifle Volunteers had been brigaded together on the South Denes.
Jan. 10th.—An inquiry was being held in respect of certain charges against the crew of the lifeboat. Mr. B. Fenn had presided at the annual library meeting. Jan. 14th.—At the lifeboat inquiry, after hearing evidence, the Rev. Mr. Steward moved, and Mr. Fellows seconded, “That the Beachmen were in no way culpable on the occasion, and that, on the contrary, their conduct was all that it ought to have been,” which motion was carried unanimously. Mr. E. P. Youell had executed some sleight-of-hand tricks a la Frickel with neatness and dexterity at the Priory Entertainment. Jan. 17th.—Four hundred persons sat down to tea at the Tract Lenders’ Festival. A prize fight had taken place near the town, on a marsh next the Acle Road. Jan. 24th.—There had been a “tremendous gale.” Jan. 28th.—The following Charity Trustees had met for the purpose of appointing a head master of the Grammar School—Messrs. Charles J. Palmer (chairman), C. Cory, R. Hammond, W. N. Burroughs, E. H. L. Preston, B. Jay, and C. C. Aldred, when the Rev. H. J. Evans was elected; the other candidates being the Revs. Merryman, W. Algar, J. Partridge, C. Bachelor, and S. Eld. Jan. 31st.—Sad accounts continued to arrive from the Fishing Fleet, inconsequence of the late gales, “scarcely a smack arriving without bearing some marks of its fury, and the loss of spars and gear, while many of the crews have tales of horror to recount of vessels foundering, and all hands perishing before their eyes without the possibility of rescue.” Feb. 4th.—A meeting of the inhabitants had been held to consider what steps should be taken to celebrate the marriage of the Prince of Wales. Feb. 14th.—Harriet Cattermole had jumped into the river, but had been floated by her crinoline until rescued by the police. Feb. 21st.—P.G. J. C. Smith, Surgeon, had presided at the annual dinner of the “Prince of Wales’” Lodge, M.U.O.F., held at the Market Tavern, 46 members and friends being present on the occasion. Feb. 25th.—C. J. Palmer, Esq., (the President), had taken the chair at the meeting of the Shipwrecked Mariners’ Society, when it appeared Feb. 28th.—At the revision of the Proxy Book, it appeared that a number of persons claiming to act as proxies for the owners of property, were not authorised to do so by such owners, and Mr. Neave intimated that “the loss of his election last year was due to the scandalous manner in which the proxies had been worked against him.” March 16th.—The town had been en fete upon the occasion of the marriage of the Prince of Wales, when the Corporation had attended St. Nicholas’ Church; a special sermon had been preached by the Rev. H. R. Nevill, the Artillery had fired a salute of 21 guns from the South Battery, and the Rifles a feu de joie in the Market-place. A Council meeting had also been held, when loyal addresses were moved, and seconded to the Queen and to the Prince and Princess of Wales by Messrs. E. H. L. Preston and John Clowes, and C. J. Palmer and W. Worship respectively. A volunteer banquet had been held on this occasion at Messrs. Lacon and Co.’s stores, when the following arrangements were made:—First table, Nos. 1 and 2 companies Artillery, (Captains J. L. Barber and W. Foreman); second table, 1 and 2 companies Rifles, (Captain Tomlinson and Lieutenant Harmer); third table, 3 and 4 companies Artillery, (Captains Green and Brown); fourth table, 3 and 4 Companies Rifles, (Captains W. Holt and H. Barber); the fifth table, Staffs of E.N.M., and N.M.A. Regiments. In addition to the Volunteers, the following gentlemen were present as guests of Sir E. H. K. Lacon, the Mayor (R. Steward, Esq.), Rev. H. Nevill, Rev. B. Vaux, Captain Long, Major Penrice, Major Orde, Adjutant Gilbertson, Adjutant Smith, J. C. Smith, Esq., E.N.M., C. C. Aldred, Esq., Captain Dods, Lieutenant W. Danby-Palmer, E.N.M., Mr. Petts, Quarter-Masters Smith and Hardiment, &c. In the evening “the illuminations were on a most extensive scale, scarcely a house without a transparency or device. The designs on the Town Hall and Hospital School were very beautiful, while many others on private houses were greatly admired. On the Town Hall, facing the north, was fixed the principal illumination, consisting of a magnificent plume of feathers, having the letters “A. A.” on either side, and partly encircled with a wreath of oak leaves and acorns. The height of the design was 18 feet by 30 feet in width, and was March 18th.—A project had been suggested for the amalgamation of the two local Volunteer Corps, under the command of Lieut.-Col. Sir E. Lacon, Bart. March 21st.—At an adjourned meeting of the Rifle Corps this question was introduced by Major Orde, who advocated the suggestion, which was opposed by Ensigns Watling and Cobb, and the project was thereupon rejected by a majority of nearly 100; consequently the officers, (who were generally in favour of the movement), threatened to resign their commissions. March 28th.—The Poor’s Rate, (which had been 1s. 8d.), was reduced to 1s. 2d. in the £. W. Yetts, Esq., had died at the age of 68; he had been for many years a member of the Corporation, and a Justice for the Borough. “Mr. Yetts was possessed of considerable talent as an artist, and as a musician, and was at all times a liberal patron of the fine arts.” April 1st.—The action of “Bayly v. Woodrow” had been tried at the Assizes, the charge being one of slander upon the plaintiff, who was a surgeon, by the defendant, a baker in the town. The verdict being for 40s. and costs. Mr. Coxon, postmaster, had died somewhat suddenly. April 18th.—The East Norfolk Militia had mustered 780 strong at their annual training. The Election of Guardians had resulted in no change being made in the Board except as regarded the election of Frederick Palmer, Esq., a scrutiny of votes was threatened by the defeated candidates. April 22nd.—An otter had been captured on the Hall-quay and remained “in charge of the police,” and was the only “prisoner” before the Justices. May 2nd.—The Corporation addresses to the Prince and Princess of Wales had been presented by the Mayor, Lord Sondes, and Sir E. Lacon, Bart. J. G. Plummer, Esq., J.P., and a member of the Council, had died. May 9th.—The first ball of the season had been held at the new Assembly-rooms, South Beach, the Stewards being the Mayor, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Major Marcon, Captain Ensor, Captain Longe, and Mr. C. J. Palmer. May 13th.—Mr. J. Scott had been elected a Councillor for the St. George’s ward in the place of the late Mr. Plummer without opposition, Mr. R. Norman (who had issued an address in the Conservative interest) having retired on the eve of the election. H.M.S. “Porcupine” was in the Roads. An “Old Crome” late the property of Mr. Hunt, had been sold for £110 to Mr. J. J. Colman. May 16th.—The Mayor had distributed prizes to the following members of the Norfolk Artillery Volunteers:—Sergeant-Major Stolworthy, Sergeant Sparrow, Sergeant Cocks, Corporal Page, Bombardiers Bullimore, Greenwood, Nutman, Self, and C. Bartram, and Corporal Baker. The Norfolk Artillery Militia, under command of Colonel Astley, had assembled, 600 strong, for its annual training. Mr. Marsh’s wine and spirit stores at the corner of Regent and King Streets, had been sold by auction for £3,210. The death of W. T. Clarke, Esq., J.P., had caused a vacancy for the St. Andrew’s Ward, and Mr. W. J. Brand had issued an address to the electors.
And an amusing scene had taken place at the close of the poll between the Mayor and Mr. Rivett, the latter taunting his Worship for not coming up in time to record his vote, and “vowing in not the most correct English a fearful retaliation when his Worship’s term of office should expire.” June 3rd.—The Bishop had ordained five deacons and four priests at St. Nicholas’ Church. June 6th.—The following were the six best shots for the Wimbledon competition:—Corporal Wilshak, 105 points; Private Barrett, 101 points; Colour-Sergeant Chipperfield, 99 points; Sergeant Hudspith, 97 points; Captain Youell, 90 points; and Corporal Davey, 89 points. June 10th.—The “Red Rover” had reached Sheerness in nine hours on her way to compete at Erith for the Prince of Wales’ Cup. The deliveries of mackerel had been “very small.” June 17th.—The Bill for incorporating the Yarmouth Gas Company was before the Committee of the House of Commons. June 20th.—Mr. Jeremiah Barnes had passed the Legal Examination. June 24th.—The Norfolk Agricultural Society had held its annual show at Yarmouth in the Militia Barrack Square (with a considerable extra space which was boarded in to form the show yard) there was a great display of bunting, Messrs. Owles, Bond, Hylton, Parsons, Barnard, Mabson, Palmer, Fyson, Garratt, and Starling being chiefly noticeable in that respect; 100 members and friends afterwards dined at the Town Hall under the presidency of the Mayor, when, in addition to his Worship, the following were the speakers:—The Hon. Wenman Coke, M.P., Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Sir Thomas W. P. Beauchamp, Bart., the Rev. B. Vaux, Sir W. Jones, Bart., Lord Walsingham, Lord Sondes, Mr. W. Burroughs, Mr. Field, Mr. Thomas Browne, Mr. Badham, and Mr. Blyth. D. Falcke, W. Briggs, and J. Scott, Esqs., had been appointed Justices in the place of W. Yetts, J. G. Plummer, and W. T. Clarke, Esqs., deceased. Miss Caroline Fellows (Mrs. Tomkins) had obtained the National Medallion for drawing at the Kensington competition. The Committee of the Commons had declared the preamble of the Gas Bill proved. Messrs. Youell, florists, were displaying beautiful specimens of the “Lilium Giganteum.” July 4th.—The “Egbert,” barque, of 410 tons register, had been launched from Messrs. Fellows’ yard. The new Assembly Rooms were proving a great attraction to visitors; the Artillery Band had been engaged by the directors. July 8th.—The “Red Rover” had beaten Mr. Trafford’s new boat the “Alabama,” at the Water Frolic, and Mr. Harvey’s “Myth” had taken the prize in the second match. The “Vindex” had been sailed in a foul manner by her crew, much to the disgust of her owner, Mr. J. Tomlinson, junr., who was acting as Hon. Secretary to the sports on the Committee-boat at the time. During these sports a frightful accident had happened in consequence of the hatches of the “Ruby” wherry falling upon two men, who were thereby crushed to death. July 11th.—Mr. Morant had resigned the Town Surveyorship. The magistrates on the salvage rota had been restrained from charging, as heretofore, fees of £2 2s. by the Secretary of State. July 15th.—Charles Rushmer, one of the men killed at the Water Frolic, who was a member of the Norfolk Artillery Volunteers, had been buried with military honours; it was stated that “this was the only death that had occurred among the Volunteers” since the formation of the corps in the town. Three thousand excursionists had arrived in one day from East Suffolk. July 18th.—The Channel Fleet, consisting of the following ships (under the command of Rear-Admiral Dacres) was in the Roads:—“Edgar” (flagship), 71 guns, 800 men, 600 horse-power, Captain Church; “Emerald” (frigate), 35 guns, 510 men, 600 horse-power, Captain Cummings; “Liverpool,” 39 guns, 540 men, 600 horse-power, Captain Lambert; “Black Prince” (armour plated), 40 guns, 726 men, 1,200 horse-power, Captain Wainwright; “Royal Oak,” 35 guns, 547 men, 800 horse-power, Captain Campbell; “Resistance,” 16 guns, 482 men, 600 horse-power, Captain Chamberlin; “Warrior,” 40 guns, 706 men, At eight o’clock on Wednesday morning, a salute of eleven guns was fired from the Admiral’s ship, in acknowledgment of the salute by the Volunteers the previous evening. During the whole of Wednesday the fleet was inspected by large numbers of visitors, who left the Britannia Pier in steamers plying to and from the squadron at reasonable fares, while the pier itself was the resort of many interested in watching the constant arrival and departure of men-of-war boats, freighted with provisions and stores, or in bringing officers on shore on leave. At one o’clock, the Mayor, and a party on board, left the bridge in the steamboat “Emperor,” to pay an official visit to the Admiral. The Mayor was accompanied on the occasion by C. J. Palmer, W. Nightingale, C. C. Aldred, W. Holt, G. S. Shingles, W. T. Foreman, W. Johnson, J. Clarke, B. Fenn, E. P. Youell, W. Laws, J. H. Orde, J. Stephenson, and J. Bunn, Esqs. On arriving at the flag-ship the party were most courteously received by Captain Hornby, in the absence of the Admiral, who, unfortunately, was on shore. After remaining a short time inspecting the “Edgar,” the party proceeded to the “Warrior,” where they were received by the Hon. Captain Cochrane, who escorted them over the ship. This was by far the most interesting feature of the excursion the powerful armament and splendid construction of this truly noble vessel exciting the admiration of all. The crew, numbering upwards of 700, were all found busily engaged at their varied avocations, some intent upon their drill at the huge Armstrong guns, while others were pursuing more peaceful avocations. The interior arrangements of the “Warrior,” as a ship of war, have been so frequently and fully described, that it is unnecessary to allude further to them, suffice it to say that, after viewing all parts of the vessel, one could but feel that England had but little to fear from foreign invasion, while guarded by such bulwarks of defence. The Mayor, with his friends, having made the tour of the fleet, returned to the Britannia Pier and disembarked. The Mayor then proceeded to the Victoria Hotel, where the Admiral was understood to be staying, but was again unsuccessful in having an interview with him, as he had just previously left to go on board his flag-ship. Under these The Fleet were, however, compelled to leave on the Sunday afternoon. July 25th.—A Bazaar in aid of the Town Charities had been held, when Mrs. Nevill, Mrs. A. B. Crosse, Mrs. C. J. Palmer, Mrs. J. Brown, Mrs. G. Palmer, Mrs. Rivers, Mrs. F. Frere, and Mrs. Harmer had stalls. July 29th.—Captain William Alfred Glasspoole had been appointed A.D.C. to Major-General Honner, C.B., commanding the Scinde Division of the Indian Army. Aug. 1st.—At the Regatta the “Gipsy Queen,” of Winterton, had won the yawl race, and the “Little Yankee” (Captain Cholmondley) and the “Belvidere” (T. M. Read, Esq.,) the small yacht races. And at the Water Frolic, the “Red Rover” (S. Nightingale, Esq.,) had beaten the “Wanderer” (R. Harvey, Esq.,) and the “Little Yankee” (Captain Cholmondley). The Regatta Dinner had been held at the Norfolk Hotel, (Winder, proprietor). £80 had been realised at the Bazaar. Aug. 5th.—The Volunteers had been inspected on the South Denes by Colonel Ibbetson. Aug. 8th.—A ring bearing the inscription “Maria Costerton, obit 18, October, 1788, aged 14 years,” had been dredged up on Breydon, and claimed by John Fisher Costerton, Esq., who had lost it some 60 years previously at a water party. Aug. 12th.—It was noted that the two drinking fountains were not used by the public. Aug. 19th—Bishop Hills had preached at St. Nicholas’ Church in aid of the Columbia Mission. The Mayor had refused the Bishop the use of the Town-hall for a meeting on the same subject, and it consequently had been held at the Priory-hall. £90 was thus raised for the Fund. The Artillery Volunteers (170 strong) had been inspected by Colonel Knox. Aug. 22nd.—One thousand excursionists had arrived from Newmarket and Bury. The “Sir Edmund Lacon” Lodge, N.I.U.O.F., had been opened at the Volunteer Tavern, when Sir E. Lacon and H. R. Harmer, Esq., were invested with the respective offices of P.S.F. and P.G. and speeches delivered by those gentlemen and Dr. Stephenson. Aug. 26th.—Sir John Walsham was holding an inquiry as to the Guardians’ election for the North Ward, where Mr. J. F. Neave claimed Mr. Hylton’s seat; there appeared to be grave irregularities in the Proxy List of Voters. Aug. 29th.—The memorial stone of the new Baptist Chapel on the Denes had been laid by J. J. Colman, Esq. Sept. 2nd.—Records the death of Samuel C. Marsh, Esq., “after a prolonged and grievous affliction.” Sept. 5th.—Mr. Falcke was suggested as a candidate for the Regent Ward to fill the late Mr. Marsh’s place in the Council. Sept. 9th.—The “Justice Roll” could not be found, and there was a “scene” on the Bench in consequence. Sept. 16th.—On Licensing Day there had been the usual “drum up” of Justices, who were classed as follows by the editor:— Regular Attendants—The Mayor, J. Fenn, J. Owles, B. Fenn, J. C. Smith, F. Palmer, E. Preston, P. Pullyn, R. Hammond, and J. Barker, Esqs. Occasional but useful attendants—J. Costerton, C. C. Aldred, W. Bessey, W. Thurtell, E. Youell, B. Jay, J. Clark, F. Worship and T. Brightwen, Esqs. Three hundred lasts of herring had been landed in one day, “but proving of inferior quality,” had scarcely realised £10 per last. Sept. 19th.—The alterations at the Naval Asylum, amounting to some £2,000 or £3,000, had been entrusted to Mr. George Tyrell, of this town. At the Registration Court, Mr. Clowes appeared for the Liberals, and Mr. W. C. Reynolds for the Tories. The Elocution Society (Mr. Lovewell Blake, Secretary) had held its annual meeting and reunion at the Corn-hall, when 200 members sat down to tea. Sept. 23rd.—The Churchwardens (Messrs. Steward and Aldred) had been presented with silver tea services, as testimonials of the esteem and regard in which they were held by the parishioners. Sep. 26th.—The following noblemen and gentlemen had acted as Stewards of the Races:—Lord William Powlett, Lord Hastings, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., Edward Howes, Esq., M.P., Lieut.-Colonel the Hon. W. C. W. Coke, M.P., and Colonel Shafto Adair, A.D.C. Mr. J. F. Clarke, as usual, officiated as Judge, and Mr. Samuel Clarke as Starter. The Regent Ward Election had terminated—
Sept. 30th.—James Scott and William Briggs, Esqs., had qualified as Justices. Oct. 3rd.—Corporal H. H. Baker had won the Champion Medal at the Artillery Volunteer Prize Shooting. Oct. 7th.—The Market had been “glutted” with fish, and the prices consequently remained very low. Oct. 17th.—The Mayor (R. Steward, Esq.,) had given his third banquet at the Town Hall, the Members for the Borough (Sir E. Lacon and Sir H. Stracey), the Recorder (N. Palmer, Esq.), and many others being present. Oct. 21st.—Mr. Newcomb had been appointed Postmaster. Oct. 24th.—At a dinner, given by Sir E. Lacon, to the members of the Conservative party, it had been determined to again offer the Mayoralty to R. Steward, Esq. The Bishop had confirmed 180 young persons at St. Nicholas’ Church. The prospects of the fishing were “of a most gloomy character.” Two vessels, the “Leda” and “Isis” had left for Ancona, the former with 2,900 and the latter with 2,550 barrels of fish, and several thousand barrels had been despatched by steamships trading with the Italian ports. Oct. 28th.—Three hundred lasts of herring had been landed on the Quay on Sunday, which had caused a great disturbance there, and the Magistrates proposed to take steps to prevent a recurrence of such scenes on the Lord’s day. Nov. 4th.—The following had been the result of the Municipal Election:—
There had been a very heavy gale from the N.N.W. Messrs. Savage and de Caux had been proceeded against for placing swills on the South Quay, and Mr. Savage fined 40s. and costs, but the case against Mr. de Caux was not proceeded with. Nov. 7th.—Mr. C. J. Palmer had proposed and Mr. J. C. Smith seconded in the Council that £2.000 be expended in the further extension of the Marine Drive, which resolution was carried nem dis. The Government had purchased the waste ground between the R.N. Hospital and the Drive, and were about to enclose it. Nov. 11th.—Mr. R. Steward had, upon the nomination of Mr. Ferrier, seconded by Mr. Nightingale, been re-elected Mayor, and in returning thanks mentioned “his acknowledgments to C. J. Palmer, Esq., to whose advice much of the success that had followed his mayoralty was justly due, and he had pleasure in taking that opportunity of publicly thanking him for the valuable assistance he had at all times so cheerfully rendered.” Nov. 25th.—Five corn stacks, valued at upwards of £600, had been burnt on Mr. Hammond’s premises at Gorleston. Nov. 28th.—The sum of £135 had been raised for the purpose of presenting a testimonial to the Mayor. The price of gas had been reduced to 4s. 6d. per 1,000 cubic feet. Dec. 5th.—Tremendous gales from the S.S.W. had visited the coast and much damage done to the shipping. Dec. 12th.—The new Methodist Chapel at Burgh had been partly blown down by the gale. Dec. 16th.—The following smacks were reported to be missing:—“Driving Mist” (Mr. Yaxley), “Leveret” and “Three Sisters” (Mr. Nockolds), “Ranger” (Mr. Norton), “Rhine” (Mr. Symonds), “Osprey” (Mr. Harrison), “Temperance Star” (Mr. Simlett), “Essex” (Mr. Carter), “Rainbow” (Mr. Moore), “Twilight” and “North Star” (Mr. Shuckford), “Gihon” (Mr. Todd), and the “Volunteer” (Mr. Veale.) The “Volunteer” steamtug, belonging to Mr. S Fill had been lost, owing to her having sprung a leak when about 40 miles from the land, while cruising about to find the missing smacks, and the crew reported that they had left her in a sinking state. Dec. 19th.—The following had been the winners of prizes in the N.A.V. competition:—Corporal Baker, and gunners Manship, Riches, Bartram, Shrimpling, Rainer; sergeant Steward; gunners Watson, Davy, Wetherell; sergeants Cocks and Robinson; corporal Beevor; bombardiers Greenwood, Nutman, Self; and gunners Stringer, Thompson, R. Cory and Howes. The presentation took place at the Drill-room, Regent-street, when the Mayor presided, and Captains Foreman and Barber also addressed the Volunteers. Dec. 23rd.—The thirteen smacks above-named were still missing. Dec. 26th.—C. J. Palmer, Esq. (President of the Institution) had read a paper upon the history of the building occupied as the Public Library and the Port Dues Office, at a Conversazione held therein. The Mayor’s Testimonial Fund had reached the sum of £200. The “Medusa” frigate was searching for the missing smacks. Dec. 30th.—There was a warm discussion going on as to the use of one of the Town fire engines at the burning of a vessel named the “Spray,” Mr. C. C. Aldred holding that it should not have been so used, while Mr. Falcke warmly supported the opposite view of the case. The following gentlemen then held commissions in the local Volunteer Corps. Artillery.—Major, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart.; Captains, W. J. Foreman, John Lee Barber, and H. P. Green; First Lieutenants, A. Rifles—Major, James Henry Orde; Adjutant, R. C. Holmes (late Captain 10th Hussars); Captains, E. P. Youell, H. H. Barber, W. Holt, and J. Tomlinson; Lieutenants, H. R. Harmer, G. Moore, F. W. Ferrier, and S. W. Spelman; Ensigns, John Cobb, S. Aldred, E. Fyson, and R. Watling; Surgeon, Frederick Palmer; Hon. Chaplain, Rev. H. R. Nevill; Supernumerary Lieutenants, John Clark and Charles Diver. N.B.—The file for the Year 1864 is missing. Jan. 7th.—A man, 60 years of age, had attended the Guardians, with a view to obtaining a wife out of the Workhouse. He was referred back by the Board to his own parish (Clippesby). Jan. 11th.—Benjamin Dowson, Esq., had died in his 77th year; he was much respected, and the flags on the shipping and the public buildings had been hoisted at half-mast. Jan. 14th.—The Haven was in a bad state, and there was so little water on the bar that the “Rainbow” steamer had landed her passengers on the Beach. Jan. 18th.—John Barker, Esq., one of the Borough Magistrates and a Haven Commissioner, had died in his 69th year. Jan. 28th.—The Great Yarmouth Building Society had held its first meeting (Major Foreman in the chair), when Mr. Chipperfield was elected secretary, and the following gentlemen directors:—H. Buston, J. Stephenson, R. Dumbleton, E. Stagg, and J. Isaac. The “Antelope” cutter had been launched from Mr. Winter’s yard, for Messrs. Smith and Son. Feb. 4th.—Mr. C. J. Palmer had presided at the annual Sailors’ Home Meeting, when Captain Rivers, D. Falcke, W. Worship, S. Dowson, C. Rose, R. Norman, and J. Scott, Esqrs., Majors Orde and Foreman, and the Revs. Hurst and Harrison were present. A public meeting, over which Mr. E. H. L. Preston presided, had been held in opposition to the “Haven and Port Bill” which was being promoted by the Corporation, and the following committee appointed to watch that measure:—Messrs. E. H. L. Preston, W. N. Burroughs, R. Dumbleton, J. W. de Caux, James Scott, Robert Barber, and John Owles. Feb. 22nd.—The shipowners had met (Mr. R. S. Watling in the chair), to consider the Bill, and had passed a resolution moved by Mr. G. Blake and seconded by Mr. J. B. Hylton, in favour of the measure. The fishing interest had held a meeting (Mr. B. Fenn in the chair), and condemned the proposed Corporation Fishwharf scheme. Feb. 25th.—At the Council meeting, Mr. E. H. L. Preston and Mr. C. C. Aldred had been “at loggerheads” with regard to the Haven Bill. March 11th.—Mr. H. Boulter, for many years one of the Councillors for the North Ward, had died. March 22nd.—There had been a heavy gale from the S.E., which had occasioned great damage to the shipping; Mr. Petts and the coastguard had done much good service with Manby’s apparatus, in saving life. March 25th.—At the contest in the North Ward, consequent on the death of Mr. Boulter, the numbers were—
Hopton Church, which had recently been destroyed by fire, was to be rebuilt on a new site at a cost of £2,500. April 1st.—During a heavy gale the vessels “Jenny R” and “Londonderry” had been stranded on the Beach. April 8th.—Reports the death of George Danby-Palmer, Esq., as follows:—“We regret to record the decease of this gentleman, who expired at his residence, South Quay, on Tuesday evening last. Mr. Palmer was born July 5th, 1787, and was therefore in his 78th year. He was a member of the old Corporation, and since the passing of the Municipal Reform Act, had continued in the new Corporation, although of late years illness had prevented him from taking any active part in the administration of municipal matters. He was a Justice of the Peace for the County of Norfolk as well as the Borough, and also filled the office of Haven Commissioner. Mr. Palmer throughout his long connection with the town was closely identified with the trade and commerce of the port, being a large shipowner, and deeply interested in the fisheries. His loss will be felt by many, particularly among the poor, to whom he was a true friend. As a tribute of respect to his memory, the flags have been hoisted on the shipping and principal buildings in the town during the week.” In politics Mr. Palmer was a Whig, and possessed great influence in the town. The following Guardians had been elected:—North Ward: Messrs. S. Nightingale, J. B. Hylton, and I. Shuckford. Market Ward: Messrs. J. Laws, C. C. Aldred, and J. Fenn. Regent Ward: Messrs. W. Worship, R. D. Barber, and C. Diver. St. George’s Ward: Messrs. F. Palmer, J. Scott, and B. Fenn. Nelson Ward: Messrs. J. Clowes, W. T. Fisher, C. Woolverton, and G. W. Moore. The shipwrights, who had been on strike, had returned to their employment. April 22nd.—The debt on St. Nicholas’ Church was then £6,700. The contest in the Nelson Ward had resulted as follows:—
And “the proceedings throughout the day had all the characteristics of a general election.” Messrs. C. S. D. Steward and E. R. Aldred had been re-elected Churchwardens by the Vestry. May 13th.—The “George” schooner had been launched from Mr. Rust’s yard. May 27th.—There had been no special demonstration of loyalty on the Queen’s birthday. The Dowager Lady Lacon had bequeathed £200 to the Hospital. A “French Club,” of which M. Butel was the tutor, was meeting at the Norfolk Hotel. June 7th.—A meeting of the Conservative party had been held at the Star Hotel, which was attended by Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Mr. Goodson, and an active canvass had been commenced on behalf of those gentlemen, as the Conservative candidates for the Borough. June 10th.—The Liberals had met at the Angel Hotel, when Mr. E. W. Watkin, by letter, strongly recommended Mr. A. Brogden, and Mr. J. C. Marshman to the electors, and those gentlemen were, on the motion of Mr. Livingston, seconded by Mr. Moore, requested to visit the Borough with Mr. Watkin. June 17th.—H.M.S. “Dauntless,” 31 guns, was anchored in the Roads. Mr. S. Barge had obtained the contract for enclosing the land to the east of the Naval Hospital. Mr. H. R. Harmer had been presented with an elegant silver salver June 21st.—The Liberals had held a monster meeting in the Market Place, when Mr. J. Clowes occupied the chair, and the Liberal candidates (Messrs. Brogden and Marshman) had delivered addresses. The Conservatives had also held a meeting, convened by circular, which had been addressed by Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Mr. Goodson. July 1st.—Both parties had held meetings at Gorleston, which had been addressed by their respective candidates; each of the candidates spoke of “certain success, with fair play.” July 5th.—The Editor states “that it is evident from the numbers who hold back their promises, that there is a great expectancy that the value of votes will rise in the market.” July 8th.—The Liberals had been holding meetings in each of the Wards, and it was stated that “both parties are professedly confident of achieving a victory.” July 12th.—Mr. Marshman had suddenly and unexpectedly retired from the contest, and Mr. Brogden had issued an address stating that Mr. Vanderbyl would take Mr. Marshman’s place as a candidate for the Borough; it was evident that “the struggle would be one of no ordinary character.” The farmers in East Norfolk were agitating for a repeal of the Malt Tax, and had adopted Mr. Clare Sewell Read as their candidate. July 15th.—Sir Thomas B. P. Beauchamp, Bart., had been selected as a colleague of the Hon. Colonel Coke, the sitting Liberal Member for that Division of the County. At the Borough nomination the appearance of the Liberal candidates “was the signal for a regular ovation.” When something like a hearing could be obtained, Mr. E. H. L. Preston proposed, and Mr. Dumbleton seconded, Sir Edmund Henry Knowles Lacon, Bart., Mr. R. Hammond proposed, and Mr. J. Scott seconded, Alexander Brogden, Esq.; Mr. W. Worship proposed, and Mr. C. Woolverton seconded, James Goodson, Esq.; and Mr. G. Blake proposed, and Mr. J. Owles seconded, Philip Vanderbyl, Esq. The show of hands was by an “immense majority” found in favour of Messrs. Brogden and Vanderbyl. The polling took place on the following day, and this description is given of
July 22nd.—The voting in the town of Yarmouth had been, with regard to this contest, as follows:—
But the general return was—
July 29th.—The Regatta had, owing to the exertions of F. Harmer, Esq., been very successfully conducted. A Swimming Association had been formed in the town, and Mr. George Archard had won the 1,000 yards match. Sir John Walsham had opened an inquiry at the Tolhouse as to the election of Messrs. I. Shuckford, W. J. Foreman, and C. Diver, (Guardians for the parish), whose seats were claimed by Messrs. J. F. Neave, C. Steward, and J. Clowes (grocer), respectively. Mr. J. Clowes, (solicitor), appeared for the appellants, and Mr. C. Diver, for the respondents. Aug. 26th.—The Race Ball had been numerously attended, and amongst those present were Lord Suffield, the Hon. Mrs. Harbord and party, Major and Mrs. Orde and party, Mrs. Cubitt and party, Mr. E. H. L. Preston, Miss Preston, Mr. E. S. Preston, Mr. I. Preston, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer and Miss Palmer, Captain and Mrs. Scott, Mr. and Mrs. W. Danby-Palmer, Mr. T. M. Baker, Mr. T. Burton Steward, Mr. E. Frere, Mr. and Mrs. F. Ferrier, Mr. C. J. Palmer, Mr. Tompson, Mr. Penrice, Mr. Trafford, &c. Aug. 30th.—The Rifle Volunteers were competing for prizes. Mr. Shales, of the Star-hotel, had been thrown from his horse on the Drive, and fractured his collar-bone. Sept. 9th.—The Band of the Coldstream Guards had been performing at the Victoria Gardens, and on the Wellington Pier. Sept. 20th.—The Haven Commissioners had drafted certain clauses to be inserted in the New Haven Bill. Owing to the high prices of provision, strikes were threatened by the working men. Sept. 23rd.—The Band of the 13th Hussars had given two concerts at the Victoria Gardens. Sept. 30th.—Herring was selling at from £23 to £25 per last. Oct. 7th.—Mr. W. J. Foreman had been declared a duly elected Guardian for the St. George’s Ward, but nothing had yet transpired as to the result of the petitions against Messrs. Shuckford and Diver. A ball in honour of the French and English steamers now in the port, had been given in the Assembly Rooms. Among those present were the Mayor, Mayoress and Miss Steward, Major and Mrs. Orde and party, Captain and Mrs. Cubitt, the Misses Cubitt, Mr. and Mrs. C. J. Palmer and Miss Tapp, Mrs. Gott, the Misses Gott and party, Miss Maitland, Mrs. and Miss Seppings, Mr. and Mrs. E. H. L. Preston, Miss Preston, the Misses Larkman, Mr. and Mrs. Gosnall, Miss Pearson, Miss Poole, Mr. and Mrs. J. Brown, Mr. F. Danby and Miss Palmer, the officers of the English and French ships, Mr. A. Steward, Mr. T. M. Baker, Mr. E. S. Preston, Mr. Frere, Mr. W. Danby-Palmer, Mr. M. Waters, Mr. T. B. Steward, &c. A large ferry boat, while delivering ice to a smack in the roads, had been upset, but fortunately none of the men in her had been drowned. Oct. 1st.—Albert Hensman had been killed by Henrich Erenschinsen at the City of London tavern. Oct. 21st.—The Poor Law Inquiry had been resumed, and was proceeding at the Tolhouse before Sir J. Walsham. Prime herring was fetching £35 per last. Oct. 25th.—There had been a heavy gale from the N.E. Oct. 28th.—One hundred and thirty young persons had been confirmed by the Bishop of Norwich. Nov. 1st.—It was reported that 21 lives had been lost in the recent gale. Sixteen and a half lasts of fish delivered from the “Ethelbert,” (Messrs. Smith and Son) had realised £377 14s., and 8 lasts from the “Secret” had made £182 15s. 3d. Nov. 11th.—At the Council Meeting on the 9th, Mr. F. Worship proposed, and Mr. C. Woolverton seconded, Mr. C. C. Aldred as Mayor, who upon his election left the Court with Mr. Steward in order to be invested with the robe and chain, when “considerable surprise was manifested” at Mr. Steward declining to return to the Council Chamber with the newly-elected Mayor. Nov. 18th.—The demand for herring continued very great, and prices ranged up to £28 per last. Mr. Neave had been declared to be elected a Guardian (in the place of Mr. Shuckford) by the Poor Law Board. Nov. 25th.—The Rifle Volunteer Shooting prizes had been presented (the Mayor presiding) at the Town Hall. The Ladies’ Challenge Cup was on this occasion handed over to Private Pestell. B. Fenn, Esq., (one of the Justices, and formerly an Alderman of the Borough) had died at the age of 73 years. Dec. 6th.—J. T. Birch, Esq., had presided for the last time as Judge of the Yarmouth County Court, having exchanged that appointment with J. Worlledge, Esq. (the Judge of the Suffolk Courts), for part of his district. Dec. 13th.—The cattle plague had attacked the cows in Mr. Fox’s and Mr. Thacker’s dairies. Dec. 20th.—It had been determined to lodge a petition against the return of Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Mr. Goodson on the ground of “gross bribery and corruption.” Dec. 23rd.—An Art Exhibition was being held at the Town Hall, where J. Owles, Esq’s. china was much admired. Dec. 30th.—There had been a meeting of farmers to consider a proposed Cattle Plague Rate of 2d. in the £. N.B.—The file for the Year 1866 is missing.
Jan. 2nd.—An attack had been made upon the Recorder (N. Palmer, Esq.), whose ill-health had caused his absence from the Quarter Sessions, by Messrs. R. Steward and C. C. Aldred, and the Mayor (Mr. E. P. Youell) by his casting vote, gave effect to this action. David Falcke, Esq., had died; his widow had sent £5 for the poor of the town. Jan. 12th.—The “South-end Mission,” which had been erected at a cost of £500, had been opened: the Corporation attended this ceremony. Jan. 16th.—The attempt to deprive Mr. Palmer of the Recordership was “strongly condemned,” and it was believed that the Secretary of State would not entertain the Magistrates’ application. Jan. 19th.—This proved to be true, and the Mayor (Mr. E. P. Youell) had been considerably snubbed by that official in his reply to the letter forwarded by him. There had been heavy gales; much damage sustained by the shipping; the Railway traffic had been impeded by the snowdrifts. Jan. 26th.—A meeting had been held to relieve the distress of the poor, when £289 was raised in the room. Dr. Moxon had presided at the anniversary meeting of the “Sir Edmund Lacon” Lodge, N.I.O.F., held at the Volunteer tavern. Feb. 23rd.—The Corporation had held a meeting for the purpose of electing two Haven Commissioners under the recently passed Haven Act, when the voting was—
Mr. Preston thus losing his seat on the Board, and that gentleman, after regretting that Mr. Youell, (the Mayor) and others should have “put such an insult upon him,” stated “that he severed himself from such a disgraceful party.” Feb. 27th.—Mr. Rumbold had been unanimously elected (in the place of Harbert retired), one of the relieving officers. March 2nd.—The Norfolk and Suffolk Building Society had held a meeting at the Oddfellows’-hall, Gorleston, when Mr. W. J. Brand presided, and addresses were delivered by Messrs. F. Palmer, L. Blake, J. F. Neave, Ling, Sacret, and W. S. Page. Mr. Copeman, of Long Stratton, had purchased No. 4, South-quay, (the Elizabethan mansion restored by the late John Danby-Palmer, Esq.), for £1,150 and £60 for fixtures. Eighteen hundred and sixty-seven changes had been rung on St. Nicholas’ bells on the 1st and 2nd inst., by the Parish ringers. March 6th.—The proposal of the Government to disfranchise the Borough was the subject of general comment. W. H. Bessey, Esq., J.P. and Town Councillor, had died in his 68th year. March 9th.—The Town Council had adopted a petition to Parliament deprecating the proposed disfranchisement of the Borough. Lord Bury (accompanied by Mr. F. Danby-Palmer) was sounding the constituency of East Norfolk with a view to contesting the division upon the next vacancy. The seat on the newly constructed Haven Board held by the shipowners had been contested with the following result:—
And the former was consequently elected. March 13th.—The Conservative electors had met at the “Star” (W. Worship, Esq., in the chair), and proposed, if disfranchisement could be avoided, a compromise as to the future representation of the Borough. March 16th.—The Liberals had also held a meeting at the “Angel,” when the majority of those present repudiated the suggested compromise; Mr. R. Hammond (chairman), Mr. J. Clowes, Mr. J. Lawn, Mr. R. Barber, Mr. J. Garratt, Mr. L. Blake, Mr. J. W. de Caux, Mr. W. Livingston, Sir Thomas Beevor, and Mr. J. Scott took part in this discussion. April 6th.—There had been a “Magisterial field-day” for the appointment of Overseers, when the following Justices were present:—Conservatives—The Mayor and Messrs. R. Steward, C. C. Aldred, J. Fenn, B. Jay, J. C. Smith, J. C. Clark, and F. Worship; and Liberals—Messrs. R. Hammond, P. Pullyn, F. Palmer, J. Owles and J. Scott. The Tory nominees were appointed after a warm altercation, in which Mr. Steward, Mr. Hammond, Mr. Palmer and Mr. Aldred took prominent parts. North Ward: Messrs. S. Nightingale, J. T. Buston, and J. F. Neave. Market Ward: Messrs. W. Laws, C. C. Aldred, and J. Rivett. Regent Ward: Messrs. W. Worship, R. D. Barber, and C. Diver. St. George’s Ward: Messrs. W. T. Foreman, C. Moore, and E. Stagg. Nelson Ward: Messrs. G. W. Moore, J. Clowes, C. Woolverton, and H. H. Barber. The following tenders had been accepted for the new Fish Wharves:—Bricklaying. Norfor, £533; masonry, Bartram, £1,780; paviour, Chappel, £1,866 7s. 1d.; slater, Dawber, £530; carpenter, Norfor, £1,820; smith, Barnes, £700; plumber, Wright, £600; total, £7,899 7s. 1d. April 24th.—Messrs. Spence, Everard, Moore, Fenner, Veale, Neave, Harrison, Douglas and Silvers had been upset on Ormesby Broad and narrowly escaped drowning. April 27th.—The bell-ringers had “struck,” owing to their not being allowed to ring a peal on the occasion of a marriage which took place in Passion week. May 4th.—The East Norfolk Militia had been inspected by Colonel Ross, and the Officers had given a ball at the Town Hall. May 11th.—Some Races, called “The Spring Meeting,” had been held on the Denes under the management of Messrs. D. R. Fowler, E. Stagg, A. Watling, C. Steward, J. T. Savage, and H. Crowe, Mr. Cufaude acting as judge and Mr W. Crowe as starter. May 22nd.—Mr. Edmond Beales had attended a Reform Demonstration held on the Hall Quay, when the Rev. Shelley occupied the chair. May 29th.—The first stone of the Volunteer Drill Hall (Ensign F. Danby-Palmer, hon. secretary) had been laid by the Mayor (Captain Youell), after the Rev. B. Vaux had offered up a prayer. Major Orde and Lord Suffield then addressed the corps, which fired several volleys, the band playing “God Save the Queen.” The Ringers being still “on strike,” the Church bells were silent on this occasion. June 5th.—The House of Commons had passed the clause disfranchising the Borough. A halibut had been caught by one of the fishing craft, measuring 6 feet long, 30 inches broad, and weighing 161 lbs. June 8th.—The marriage of Joseph Tomlinson, Esq., to Miss Ellen Larkman, had been celebrated, with much rejoicing, at Belton Church. June 29th.—And another fire at Gorleston on Mr. Kemp’s premises, where the damage was estimated at from £1,200 to £1,500. Captain Smyth, R.N. (Pier Master) had been granted a Greenwich Hospital out-pension of £65 a year. July 6th.—Bro. William Danby-Palmer had been installed W.M. of Lodge “United Friends” 313, and during the subsequent banquet at the Star Hotel, the band of the Rifle Volunteers had performed on the “leads.” E. H. L. Preston, Esq., had been nominated a Knight of the Belgian Order of Leopold. July 13th.—The “Hermit” (smack) had been launched for Mr. H. K. Swann, from Mr. Ambrose J. Palmer’s yard. July 24th.—Mr. I. Preston, jun., acted as secretary at the “Water Frolic” (vice Tomlinson resigned), when the following yachts competed:—“Spray,” 8 tons, F. Foster, Esq.; “Iris,” 7, Messrs. Harrison and Veale; “Fleur-de-Lis,” 5, P. Gandy, Esq.; “Fleetwing,” 9, Messrs. Hart and Asker; “Warrior,” 9, H. K. Thompson, Esq.; “Blue Bell,” 6, J. E. Preston, Esq.; “Syren,” 4, Press Bros.; “Vixen,” 10, P. S. Millard, Esq.; and “Enchantress,” 10, H. H. Barber, Esq. The “Blue Bell” won. Aug. 3rd.—At the Regatta, the “Red Rover” declined to try conclusions with the “Satanella” and the “Eva,” the former of which yachts won the prize. Only three yawls competed with the following results:—
It was remarked that no Yarmouth yawl was entered for the match. On this occasion Mr. F. Harmer acted as starter, and Mr. J. H. Bly as Hon. Secretary. Aug. 24th.—The Mayor had given a ball at his residence at Gorleston, when about 60 ladies and gentlemen were present. Aug. 28th.—The town was full of visitors. It was estimated that from 15,000 to 20,000 persons were at one time on the Marine Drive on the preceding Sunday. The Corporation land at and near “Norfolk Square” had been offered for sale, and several lots sold to Messrs. H. Teasdel, J. Clowes, J. Isaac, C. Woolverton, and E. Stagg. Sep. 11th.—The Fish Wharves and Market were nearly completed and would shortly be opened; they had cost about £12,000. The fire engines had been condemned and were about to be replaced by more powerful ones constructed by Messrs. Shand and Mason. Sep. 14th.—Herring was selling at from £12 to £15 per last. The Corporation had been selling sites near the Naval Hospital, and Grout & Co.’s Factory, which had realised an average rent of £1 2s. 5d. per site. Sep. 21st.—Prime herring was selling at £30 per last. Sep. 25th.—J. T. Abdy, Esq., had attended as Revising Barrister for East Norfolk, when Mr. I. O. Howard Taylor and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer represented the Liberals, and Mr. Charles Diver and Mr. Eagleton the Conservatives, each party had made 56 claims and lodged 130 objections. Oct. 16th.—Owing to a glut of fish, some herring were selling so low as £6 per last. Oct. 26th.—The following were the retiring Councillors:—Messrs. W. Worship, J. D. Hilton, C. J. Palmer, C. Woolverton, R. Ferrier, B. Jay, R. D. Barber, J. Tomlinson, D. A. Gourlay, E. R. Aldred, R. Steward, and W. J. Brand; all of whom (except Mr. C. J. Palmer) proposed to seek re-election. Nov. 2nd.—Mr. de Caux had appeared as a candidate in the South Ward and Messrs. Neave and Frosdick in the St. George’s Ward. A small steam boat, the property of Mr. Laurie, had been launched from Mr. Blyth’s iron works at Cobholm. Nov. 9th.—The Drill Hall had been opened, when the Volunteers and a large number of guests were entertained by the officers of the Corps, (Major Orde, Captains Youell, H. H. Barber, W. Holt, J. Tomlinson, Lieutenants G. W. Moore, S. Aldred, R. E. Dowson, Fyson, C. Diver; Ensigns, Ambrose J. Palmer, F. Danby-Palmer, and Adjutant F. A. Cubitt), among whom were the Rev. H. Nevill, Major Foreman, and the Officers of the Norfolk Artillery Volunteers, Captain James, Captain Cubitt, Captain Gilbertson, Captain Calthorpe, Captain Nov. 13th.—At the Council meeting, on the motion of Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., seconded by Mr. C. Woolverton, William Worship, Esq., had been elected Mayor. James Sharman, a Trafalgar veteran and keeper of the Nelson Monument, had died at the age of 82 years. Nov. 25th.—There had been a contest in the Regent Ward, consequent upon Mr. W. C. Reynolds’ retirement from the Council, when the polling was as follows:—
Nov. 27th.—A detachment from the 35th, 90th, and 96th Regiments had arrived at the Southtown Barracks under the following officers:—Captain Caldecott (35th), Ensigns Cooper and Aldridge (35th), Lieut. Jones (96th), and Ensign Blockwell (96th). Dec. 4th.—There had been a “tremendous gale and tide,” and Southtown was flooded. Dec. 7th.—The “Rescuer” Gorleston lifeboat had been upset at the Harbour’s mouth and 25 lives lost. Dec. 11th.—In the action of “Henderson v. Lacon, Bart.,” the directors of the late Royal Hotel Company had been held personally liable for mis-statements contained in that Company’s prospectus. Dec. 25th.—The Rifle Volunteer Officers had invited 1,100 ladies and gentleman to an entertainment at the Drill Hall, when Major Orde, Captain Youell, the Rev. J. J. Raven, Mr. C. H. Chamberlin, Mr. H. R. Harmer, and Mr. E. H. Combe took part in the performances and readings. 1868.Jan. 1st.—A. Brogden, Esq., had given 20 tons of coals to the poor of the borough. Jan. 8th.—“Fenian scare.” The Magistrates had held a private Meeting, which was attended by Major Jones and Captain Scovell, (96th The ammunition stores had been removed from the Batteries to the Barracks and the Military had paraded and marched to Church with muskets and side arms. Jan. 11th.—The “United Brothers” Lodge, A.I.O.F., had held its 4th annual festival in St. John’s Schoolroom. Jan. 15th.—Mr. Matthew Butcher, junr., had been appointed Consular Agent to the Italian Government at Yarmouth. Jan. 25th.—The Norfolk and Suffolk Building Society had held its first annual general meeting, Frederick Palmer, Esq., in the chair; the report was a very favourable one, and, being laid before the meeting by Mr. L. Blake (the Secretary), was unanimously adopted. Jan. 29th.—A fatal fire had occurred at Mr. Pigg’s shop and dwelling-house in the Market Row. Mrs. Pigg and two children had been burned to death, and damage sustained to the estimated amount of some £3,000. Feb. 12th.—The lugger “Flying Fish” had struck upon a sunken wreck, and immediately foundered. The “North Sand” had dried to a very considerable extent. Feb. 19th.—There had been a fracas in the hunting field at Toft Monks, consequent upon Mr. Colman causing a hare to be shot during a run of the Norfolk and Suffolk Harriers, and thereupon having been assaulted by one of the sportsmen. Feb. 26th.—Contains the account of the presentation, at the Cape, of a watch and address to Captain F. Diver, of the “Roman.” March 7th.—Mr. S. Aldred had been appointed treasurer to the Race Committee (vice Mr. C. Steward, deceased.) Mr. C. C. Newcomb, post-master, had died. March 11th.—The Quarter Sessions could not be held, as neither the Recorder, or a deputy on his behalf, appeared on the day fixed for holding this Court.
April 4th.—The question of purchasing the Ferries had been considered by the Town Council, the price asked for them being £9,500, and the Committee of the Council had recommended the purchase, but on division the motion to do this was lost by 11 to 10 votes. April 8th—Messrs. Ellis, Pestell, Skoulding, and Harbord had been re-appointed overseers. April 15th.—The following Guardians had been elected:—North Ward: Messrs. Nightingale, Neave, and Buston. Market Ward: Messrs. Laws, Aldred, and Fenn. Regent Ward: Messrs. Worship, Barber, and Diver. St. George’s Ward: Messrs. Scott, Foreman, and Palmer. Nelson Ward: Messrs. Woolverton, Moore, Bracey, and Clowes. April 22nd.—Large numbers of codling, plaice, and whiting were being taken in the dykes near the Acle New Road. It was supposed that these salt-water fish were left there by the floods of the previous December, when the Breydon Wall had been broken. May 2nd.—The “Everette” had foundered at her anchors in the Roads. The Fish Wharf was to be extended 1,100 feet, for which work Mr. Parmenter’s tender of £1,375 had been accepted. May 23rd.—The property “without the Walls” had been for the first time assessed to the land tax. May 27th.—The Queen’s Birthday had been observed as a general holiday, and a salute of 21 guns fired from the South Battery by the Norfolk Artillery Militia, under the command of Colonel Lord Suffield. May 30th,—That Regiment had been inspected by Colonel Knox. June 6th.—Mr. Shuckford, Master of the Workhouse, had died. June 10th.—A meeting, convened by Messrs. O. Diver and H. Brand, had been held for the purpose of organising an opposition Steam-packet Service. July 4th.—Mr. and Mrs. Blyth had been elected Master and Matron of the Workhouse. The British Medical Association had held a meeting at the Town Hall, Dr. Vores in the chair; the following Yarmouth medical men were also present:—Dr. Macleod, R.N., Dr. Smyth, and Messrs. J. C. Smith, Frederick Palmer, Charles Palmer, D. Meadows, T. Moxon, R. R. B. Norman, Bately and C. B. Rose. July 11th.—Fifty thousand mackerel had been landed in one day and sold at from 10s. to 12s. per 120. July 22nd.—Messrs. E. R. Wodehouse and R. T. Gurdon had been accepted as Liberal, and Sir E. H. K. Lacon and Major Walpole as Tory, candidates for the then newly-constituted division of North Norfolk. Messrs. C. Woolverton, E. R. Aldred, C. E. Bartram, and R. D. Barber had been “secretly” appointed Justices by the Lord Chancellor. July 30th.—Contains the following as to the coming contest:—“The Liberal candidates are announced to address the electors at the Angel Hotel, Market Place, on Wednesday evening next. Mr. Wodehouse arrived on Saturday last, and there is little doubt of both the candidates receiving an enthusiastic welcome on their first public appearance before the Liberal portion of the constituency. The selection of Messrs. Wodehouse and Gurdon for the Northern Division of the County has been regarded with general satisfaction here, even among Liberals of the more advanced school of politics, and the coming contest promises to see the Liberal party of this borough thoroughly united and more than usually perfect in its electoral organisation.” Aug. 1st.—The Liberal electors had been addressed by their candidates in the Long Room, Angel Hotel, J. Clowes, Esq., presiding, and among those present were Sir T. Beevor, Bart., Messrs. J. Scott, F. Palmer, P. Pullyn, C. E. Bartram, H. Brand, W. T. Fisher, Revs. Shelley, Tritton, &c. Mr. Simmons had made a successful balloon ascent from the Victoria Gardens. Aug. 5th.—The Tories had held a meeting at the “Star,” E. H. L. Preston, Esq., in the chair, and amongst those present were Messrs. Aug. 8th.—At the Regatta the “Ariel” (T. M. Read), won the prize for schooner yachts, and the “Red Rover” (Nightingale) and the “Belvidere” (H. Teasdel), the other yacht prizes. Mr. I. Preston acted as secretary, Messrs. J. Clowes and Petts as umpires, Mr. F. Harmer as starter, and Mr. J. Cobb as time-keeper on this occasion. Aug. 19th.—Gorleston had been made one of the polling places for East Suffolk. Aug. 29th.—The Races had been held, the Stewards being the Mayor (W. Worship, Esq.), Lord Hastings, Baron Rothschild, J. Goodson, Esq., M.P., and F. Barne, Esq. Sep. 5th.—A number of persons had been victimized by the advertisement of a “Trip to Cromer by Steamer,” which was to call for them at the Jetty; no steamboat, however, appeared, and the promoters ran off with the passengers’ fares. Sep. 12th.—Messrs. Wodehouse and Gurdon, with Mr. McCullagh Torrens, M.P., had addressed the electors from the Angel Hotel; amongst those present were Sir Thomas Beevor, Bart., and Messrs. J. J. Colman, R. Hammond, Bircham, Rev. Shelley, J. Scott, J. Clowes, C. E. Bartram, F. Palmer, F. Danby-Palmer, J. Mainprice, G. Blake, L. Blake, S. C. Blake, J. Fellows, A. Davie, W. T. Fisher, S. Page, J. Humphries, D. R. Fowler, W. J. Brand, W. Livingston, &c., &c. Sep. 19th.—Dr. Abdy had held the County Revision Court at the Tolhouse, when Mr. I. O. Howard Taylor and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer appeared for the Liberals and Mr. C. Diver for the Conservatives. Sept. 23rd.—The Liberals claimed a gain of 81 on the revision, and it was stated “that great credit was due to the Liberal agents, Messrs. I. O. Taylor (Norwich) and F. Danby-Palmer (Yarmouth) for the care bestowed in preparing the claim and objection lists.” Sept. 26th.—The B Battery of the C Brigade, R.H.A., under Colonel Bishop, had arrived at the Southtown Barracks; it was composed of 180 men, with 140 horses, and six nine-pound Armstrong guns. The “Sultana” (brig of 301 tons) had been launched from Messrs. Fellows’ yard for Messrs. Stone and Company. Oct. 10th.—The following were the retiring Councillors:—North Ward: Messrs. J. Mainprice and J. H. Bly. Market Ward: Messrs. F. Worship and C. C. Aldred. Regent Ward: Messrs. C. B. Rose and E. Stagg. St. George’s Ward: Messrs. J. C. Smith and J. Scott. Nelson Ward: Messrs. C. E. Bartram and H. H. Barber. St. Andrew’s Ward: Messrs. E. H. L. Preston and H. Teasdel. Oct. 17th.—A vestry meeting had been held with a view to the removal of the organ from the west end of St. Nicholas’ Church, the Rev. H. Nevill presided, and Messrs. E. H. Preston, W. Mabson, C. S. D. Steward, R. Hammond, and C. Cory took part in the proceedings. There was a glut of herring, and prices “ruled low.” Oct. 21st.—This state of affairs continued, and prices only averaged from £7 to £8 per last. Oct. 28th.—There had been heavy gales, with loss of life at sea, which had interrupted the fishing. Nov. 4th.—James Coleby had escaped from the Borough Gaol. The polling in the contested Wards had terminated as follows:—
The Liberals thus gaining two seats at Gorleston. Nov. 7th.—Mr. Lane (Rate Collector) and Mr. R. Page (Bill poster), had been before the Justices in consequence of a row arising out of the election. And Mr. H. Teasdel (the recently defeated candidate at Southtown) was appointed an Alderman in the place of Mr. John Brown. Nov. 18th.—There had been heavy gales from the N.N.W., and a schooner had been driven through the Britannia Pier. Nov. 25th.—The nomination for North Norfolk had taken place at Aylsham, when the Rev. H. Lombe proposed, and Mr. E. H. L. Preston seconded, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart.; Mr. H. R. Upcher proposed, and Mr. J. W. Shelly seconded, Mr. Edmond Robert Wodehouse; Mr. E. Fellowes, M.P., proposed, and Mr. R. Leaman seconded, the Hon. Frederick Walpole; Mr. Bulwer proposed, and Mr. Richard England seconded, Mr. Robert T. Gurdon; and the High Sheriff (Lord Ranelagh) having declared the show of hands equally divided between the candidates, a poll was demanded on behalf of all of them. Nov. 28th.—The poll had been declared as under:—
At Yarmouth it was stated that:—
Dec. 12th.—Mr. Nutman (Relieving Officer for the North District) had died. It was alleged that an “aged imbecile pauper,” had been taken out of Rollesby Workhouse by a Guardian to vote for the Tory candidates. Dec. 19th.—The directors of the Britannia Pier Company had decided to hand over that structure to Mr. Isaac in consideration of his taking over the mortgage upon it. Admiralty Jurisdiction had been conferred on the Yarmouth County Court. Dec. 30th, contains the following notice of the death of Richard Ferrier, Esq.:—“We regret to announce the death of Mr. R. Ferrier, who expired at his residence, Trafalgar Road, on Sunday morning, after a protracted illness. The deceased gentleman represented St. George’s Ward for many years in the Town Council, though for some time past his ill health had incapacitated him from the discharge of his public duties. He was a man of sound judgment and excellent business habits, and his opinion on all practical matters had great weight with the Council. Mr. Ferrier was in politics a Conservative, and in his younger days was distinguished by the zeal and energy with which, at all times, he worked for his party. In respect to his memory the flags were hoisted half-mast high on the Town Hall.”
Jan. 2nd.—The average price of herring during the fishing had been £8 17s. 6d. per last, and the money thus expended had amounted to £146,000. Jan. 6th.—Mr. J. D. Hayes had been elected one of the Relieving Officers in the place of Mr. Nutman deceased. John Coleby alias “Jack Sheppard,” who had recently broken out of gaol, had been re-captured. Jan. 16th.—There had been a contest in St. George’s Ward to fill the vacancy caused by Mr. R. Ferrier’s death; when the following was the poll:—
Jan. 27th.—A faculty had been obtained for the removal of St. Nicholas’ organ from the west end of that church to the North Transept; this had been strongly opposed by Mr. E. H. L. Preston. Feb. 17th.—There had been severe gales from the Eastward, causing much damage to shipping. Feb. 21st.—Mr. John L. Cufaude (Clerk to the Guardians) had been arrested in respect of a claim “for which (as he stated to that Board) he had no right in justice to be arrested”; subsequently he made himself a bankrupt, when it appeared that he had been involved in racing transactions, where he had figured as Mr. De La-CÈ. Feb. 27th—The boiler of the “Bold Buccleugh,” Hull steamer, had exploded while that vessel was at her Yarmouth Wharf. March 13th.—Mr. Williams, of Cardiff, had been given the “St. Nicholas’ Church Contract,” although his price (£4,755) exceeded that of Mr. Hood (Norwich), which was £4,194. The following gentlemen (out of 27 candidates) had been elected members of the newly-formed Gorleston Board of Health:—Messrs. Dendy, Baumgartner, Gooda, J. Hammond, Beevor, Gambling, Teasdel, W. Nelson and J. Nelson. Mr. Chipperfield (the late Secretary) had been presented with a testimonial by the Yarmouth Building Society. Two otters had, during a run of the harriers, been captured in a field near Thrigby Hall. March 20th.—Mr. S. B. Cory had been elected Clerk to the Gorleston Board at a salary of £50 per annum, and Mr. F. Dendy chairman of that body. Messrs. C. S. D. Steward and E. R. Aldred had been re-elected Churchwardens. April 14th.—Mr. J. A. Norman had been seated as a Guardian for the Market Ward; there were then 9 Conservatives and 7 Liberals upon the Board. The Rifle Corps had held a Church parade. April 17th.—William Danby-Palmer, Esq., had accepted the command of the local batteries of Artillery Volunteers. Major Orde had presided at the soireÉ of the Norfolk and Suffolk Building Society held in the Corn Hall. May 1st.—The Rifle Corps had given a series of amateur dramatic representations at the Drill Hall, in which Messrs. Wiltshire, Youell, Applewaite, Giles, Watson, Chipperfield, and others had taken part. The Duke’s Head had been purchased by Mr. Davey for £1,520. May 12th.—The Officers of the East Norfolk Militia had given a ball to 200 persons at the Town Hall. June 5th.—Mr. E. H. L. Preston had presided at a meeting called for the purpose of presenting a testimonial to Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P. Captain Dods, and Messrs. William Mabson, William Danby-Palmer, C. Woolverton, R. D. Barber, and Dumbleton took part in the proceedings. June 12th.—Mr. Charles Cory (Town Clerk) had died of gastric fever in Italy in his 57th year. June 16th.—Messrs. Charles J. Palmer, C. Diver, and H. R. Harmer were candidates for the office thus rendered vacant. June 23rd.—At the Council meeting Mr. C. Diver (being the only person nominated), was unanimously elected Town Clerk, and a vacancy in the Aldermen being thus caused, the following voting took place:—
July 14th.—The 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers (under command of Captain W. Danby-Palmer) had attended St. Peter’s Church. July 31st.—At the Council meeting, Mr. C. C. Aldred was very abusive to Mr. J. C. Smith during the election of a Haven Commissioner in the place of the late Mr. Cory; the voting was as follows:—For Mr. W. Worship: The Mayor, and Messrs. Purdy, Shingles, Orde, Watling, Bunn, Teasdel, Worship, Hilton, Barnby, Nuthall, E. R. Aldred, C. C. Aldred, R. D. Barber, Tomlinson, Foreman, Doughty, Jay, Woolverton, Bartram, and Steward; total 21. For Mr. E. H. L. Preston: Messrs. Youell, Harmer, Laws, Mabson, Bly, Fyson, Wright, George, Stagg, J. Burton, W. D. Palmer, Smith, Scott, Veale, J. T. Bracey, Stone, Barber, Richmond, Gooda, Brand, Dendy, and Baumgartner; total 22. Absent, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, and Messrs. Mainprice, J. Bracey, Gourlay and Shuckford. Aug. 4th.—The late P. Stead, Esq., had bequeathed £1,000 to the Hospital. Aug. 28th.—The corner-stone of the Grammar School on Trafalgar Road had been laid by S. Nightingale, Esq. (Mayor). Sept. 11th.—Upwards of 300 lasts of herring had been landed at the Fish Wharf, and prices ranged from £10 to £25 per last. Sept. 25th.—Dr. Hills (Bishop of Columbia) had addressed two public meetings at the Town Hall, and preached at St. Nicholas’ in aid of that Mission; the total sum thus realised was £64 11s. Oct. 2nd.—Mr. R. H. Palmer (Revising Barrister) had been holding Courts at Yarmouth, Ormesby, and Gorleston, when Messrs. C. Diver, F. Danby-Palmer, and F. W. Ferrier were the agents appearing before him. Mr. Wm. Jas. Palmer had been elected House Surgeon at the Hospital in the place of Mr. Colley resigned. Nov. 6th.—The following had been the result of the Municipal Election:—
Nov. 10th.—Charles Woolverton, Esq., had been unanimously elected Mayor. Owing to the recent gales, the following fishing smacks were reported as missing:—The “Prince Albert,” “Thomas and Fanny,” “Armada,” “Echo,” “Royal Diadem,” “Lord Raglan,” “Eugene,” “Garland,” and “Pursuit.” 1,500 wind-bound vessels had sailed through the Roads northwards. Dec. 4th.—The Justices had dismissed a summons for payment of rate in consequence of the action of the Overseers in not placing the rated person on the Municipal list, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer arguing the case for the ratepayer, and the Vestry-Clerk appearing for the Overseers. As this raised a large question on the Register, it had caused some excitement in political circles, and further action was threatened. 1870.Jan. 1st.—Charles Dashwood, Esq., had given a ball at the Assembly Rooms. Jan. 12th.—Thomas Brightwen, Esq., had died at the age of 59. Damage had been occasioned to several houses in the town by a heavy gale. Jan. 29th.—Mr. J. H. Orde had been elected Borough Treasurer in the place of Mr. T. Brightwen deceased. Two vessels had been in collision with the Newarp lightship. Feb. 12th.—J. Tomlinson, Esq., had been elected Commodore of the Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club. There had been a boiler explosion at Messrs. Bracey and Son’s Ropery. Feb. 16th.—There had been very heavy gales and much loss to the shipping. During one of these gales the Assembly Rooms had been discovered to be on fire, and this building thus sustained damage to the extent of £700 or £800. Feb. 19th.—A meeting had been held at the Town Hall for the relief of the poor. The Mayor presided, and the Rev. Canon Nevill, Mr. Hammond, Major Orde, Mr. W. N. Burroughs, Mr. Gorell, Mr. John Clowes, Mr. Neave, and Mr. Laws took part in the proceedings. Between £200 and £300 was raised in the room. Feb. 26th.—The organ in the Parish Church had been re-opened. This instrument appears from the report then issued to have been built by Jordan in 1732, and previously repaired in 1812 and 1840; the repairs this time costing £820. March 12th.—Mr. Longley had been holding an Inquiry at the Tolhouse with regard to the alleged neglect of a pauper patient by Mr. Stafford (Surgeon for the North District). March 19th.—Messrs. Blott had been prosecuted by the Haven Commissioners for obstructing the North River, when they were defended by Mr. F. Danby-Palmer, and the case adjourned in order to effect a settlement. March 26th.—The Rifle Corps had attended Gorleston Church, and afterwards marched round that village. This was the first time such a parade had taken place. April 9th.—Captain Smyth, R.N., and Captain Dent, R.N., had been promoted to the rank of Admiral. April 13th.—The following had been the polling of the elected Guardians (there being in all 32 candidates).—North: S. Nightingale (C), 356; J. F. Neave (L), 308; J. D. Hilton (C), 292; S. Barge (C), 248. In this ward Mr. Cufaude had decided that Mr. Neave was disqualified, April 16th.—Mr. Cufaude had submitted an elaborate statement upon Mr. Neave’s case to the Local Government Board. The constitution of the Guardians was then 10 Tories and 6 Liberals. April 23rd.—“Yachting Items”: Mr. Palmer was building a schooner yacht. Mr. Preston had purchased the “Otter.” The “Red Rover” (Nightingale) was being altered, as was also the “Syren.” Messrs. Mills and Blake had launched a new barge. Mrs. Bowyer Vaux, her son, and a friend, had been upset in a sailing boat on Breydon. April 30th.—At a sale of Gas Shares, those of £30 realised £45 per share, and those of £7 10s., £11 10s. per share. It was stated that the maximum dividend of 8½ per cent. was regularly paid on this stock. May 4th.—Sir Alexander Shafto Adair, Bart., (Lib.), and Lord Mahon (Con.) were candidates for East Suffolk. May 14th.—Mr. J. Fenn had caught a perch weighing 3½ lbs. and 18 inches in length. May 18th.—There was a report current of a fracas having taken place between two leading members of the Tory party during a meeting at the Star Hotel. May 21st.—The Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club Dinner had taken place at the Town Hall. May 25th.—“It is stated that the gallant gentleman, (Major Foreman) who figured in the melÉe that arose at the late conference of the Conservative party is about to seek legal redress for the attack made upon him (by Mr. E. H. L. Preston.)” The 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers (under the command of Captain Commandant William Danby-Palmer) had attended St. Peter’s Church. May 28th.—On Her Majesty’s Birthday, the Rifle Volunteers under the command of Major Orde had fired a feu de joie in the Market Place, and the Artillery, under the command of Captain William Danby-Palmer, had fired a salute of 21 guns from the South Battery. June 4th.—The following had been the result of the East Suffolk Election:—
Captain Alderson and Lieutenant Partridge, of the Norfolk Artillery Militia, had given a Ball at the Town Hall. June 11th.—The Nottingham Order of Odd Fellows had held its annual festival at the Corn Hall, Bro. Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., P.I.F., taking the chair, supported by Bros. Moxon, E. P. Youell, W. Laws, W. J. Foreman, W. T. Fisher, J. H. Fellows, J. Bracey, and Mr. Wiltshire. Mr. Cattermole (Librarian) had been presented with a testimonial in the shape of a watch of the value of £25 and a cheque for £31 10s. June 15th.—Admiral Smyth, R.N., had resigned the office of Pier-Master after 35 years service. June 18th.—The decision of the Local Government Board being in favour of Mr. F. Danby-Palmer’s contention, and against that of Mr. Cufaude, consequent thereon Mr. Neave was entitled to his seat at the Board of Guardians. June 22nd.—The brigantine “Ethel” had been launched from Mr. Rust’s yard. June 25th.—The officers of the Norfolk Artillery Militia had given a grand Military Ball at the Assembly Rooms. Mr. C. S. D. Steward and party had caught 10 perch on Ormesby Broad, four of which weighed 12lbs. The Yarmouth Co-operative Society was in liquidation, and Mr. Lovewell Blake, the liquidator, had summoned several of the contributors for arrears of call. July 2nd.—Quarter-Master Doughty, Colour-Sergeant Chipperfield, Sergeants Lay and Wilshak and Privates Harpour and Wales had been selected to go to Wimbledon. Mr. I. Preston, accompanied by his friend, Mr. T. M. Baker, had sailed for Holland in the river yacht “Otter.” The luncheon, in connection with the event, was held at the “Crown and Anchor,” when the Rev. W. Tritton presided; about 250 persons were present, addresses were delivered by the Chairman, the Rev. J. C. Harrison, the Rev. Dr. Mellor, and Messrs. S. W. Spelman, J. Crossley, J. T. Bottle and others. July 23rd.—The D Troop B Brigade of the Royal Horse Artillery had arrived at the Southtown Barracks under the command of Colonel Mitchell, comprising 150 officers and men with 120 horses and 6 guns. July 27th.—Upon Mr. Neave attending to take his seat at the Board of Guardians a “scene” took place, several members accusing Mr. Cufaude of partiality, which that gentleman indignantly denied. August 13th.—Mr. Attwood had been returned as a Councillor for the St. Andrew’s Ward without opposition, in the place of Mr. Richmond deceased. August 20th.—The following officers and men of the 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers had gone to Shoeburyness:—Captain Commandant William Danby-Palmer, Lieutenants T. Burton Steward and T. M. Baker, Sergeant Smith, Corporals Harrison and Sadd, Bombardiers Steward and Sayer, Gunners Allcock, Millican, and Woodhouse. Captain Youell had (after eleven years’ service) retired from the Rifles. Sept. 3rd.—A meeting had been held to raise a fund for the sufferers by the Franco-German war. The Mayor, the Vicar, Dr. Vores, Mr. J. H. Orde, Mr. C. C. Aldred, the Rev. W. Griffiths, and Mr. S. W. Spelman took part in the proceedings, and upwards of £100 was raised in the room. Sept. 17th.—Mrs. Gray had bequeathed by will £100 to the Hospital, £19 19s. to the Sailors’ Home, and £10 to the Lying-in Charity. Upwards of 60 boats had delivered fish at the Wharf, the price being £16 to £22 per last for fresh fish. Sept. 24th.—The Queen’s bounty had been forwarded to Mrs. Spurge. Mr. J. Petts, R.N., had resigned his command in the Coastguard after 40 years’ service, twelve of which had been spent in Yarmouth. Oct. 15th.—No minister had attended at St. Peter’s Church to perform service in the afternoon of Sunday. The old Jetty had been lengthened 60 feet. Mr. E. Stagg (one of the Councillors for the Regent Ward) had died. £149 13s. 6d. had been raised for the purpose of presenting a testimonial to Sergeant Berry (of the Police). Mr. S. K. Smith had landed from one of his boats 24 lasts of herrings, which sold for £264. It was calculated that some 2,000 French fishermen were then in Gorleston. Oct. 26th.—Mr. Robert Rising (of Horsey) had been elected a Haven and Pier Commissioner in the place of Mr. Burroughes resigned. Nov. 5th.—Owing to the extension of the franchise and the “split” in the Conservative camp, the Municipal Election had excited a good deal of attention, as the following report shows:—
As the result of this election, it was believed that Mr. E. H. L. Preston would be Mayor for the ensuing year. Mr. F. Ferrier had been returned in the place of Mr. Stagg, deceased, for the Regent Ward. An effort was being made to restore St. George’s Chapel. Nov. 12th.—At the Council meeting, Mr. J. C. Smith proposed, and Mr. Bracey seconded, Mr. E. H. L. Preston, as Mayor, and this was carried nem. dis. There had been an enormous catch of herring; Messrs. Smith’s “Ocean Wave” had taken 29 lasts, and on the Thursday it was computed that 1,409 lasts of fish had been landed at the Wharf. Nov. 19th.—The Volunteers had received “Snider Rifles.” Mr. J. H. Fellows had presided at a meeting at the “New Royal Standard” to select a candidate for the South Ward, when Mr. Fredk. Palmer was brought forward, the other candidates named being Mr. I. Hill, Mr. G. Harvey, and Mr. J. H. Harrison. Nov. 23rd.—Commissions signed by the Lord Lieutenant:—2nd N.R.V., Lieut. A. J. Palmer to be Captain, vice Youell resigned; Ensign E. H. H. Combe to be Lieut., vice Palmer promoted. Nov. 26th.—The following had been the result of the election in the Nelson Ward:—
After the declaration of the poll a procession, headed by a band, had paraded the principal streets. Twelve vessels had already cleared with 28,390 barrels of herring for Italian ports. Dec. 3rd.—A petition alleging bribery at St. George’s Ward Election, had been presented to the Town Council, and supported there by Mr. J. W. Bunn (one of the Aldermen). Mr. F. Danby-Palmer repudiated the charge on behalf of Mr. Hammond and himself, and, ultimately, on the motion of Mr. Harmer, the document was ordered to be laid “under the table.” The death of Mr. H. H. Barber (one of the Councillors for the South Ward, and a Captain in the 2nd N.R.V.) is recorded. In the Nelson Ward Mr. H. Fenner (C.) had been returned in his place, having beaten Mr. Woodger (L.) by 85 votes. The fishing-boats were “making up” after a very successful voyage. It was proposed to lay down a tramway from Yarmouth to Lowestoft. Dec. 17th.—The Mayor had presented the testimonial to Inspector Berry; it consisted of a 20 guinea watch and a purse of £145. One fishing boat had caught 142 lasts of herring during the season. It was estimated that £40,000 would be paid to the fishermen in wages. Messrs. Woolverton and George had opened a Stock Sale at Acle, the former gentleman acting as auctioneer. There were a large number of entries, and fat stock had realised 10s. 6d. per stone. Dec. 24th.—Records the death of Mr. Henry Fellows, shipbuilder, aged 70. Herring had averaged £10 per last during the season, and it was computed that the money value of the fish caught during the season was £180,000. Dec. 28th.—Mr. Wyllys’ sledge had upset at the corner of Regent Street, and knocked over a woman, but no serious damage had been sustained. Dec. 31st.—Mr. J. H. Want had obtained the contract for the erection of a new Post Office in Regent Street. 1871.Jan. 4th.—Records the abandonment of what was known as the “Ordering up system,” under which complainants had been accustomed, on payment of a fee of 2s. (without summons), to have persons brought before the Magistrates by the police. A young Danish girl had been discovered working as a sailor on board a vessel. Jan. 10th.—One Thacker, a veteran gunner, generally known as “Old Stork” had brought down five swans at one shot on Breydon. Jan. 14th.—The Mayor (E. H. L. Preston, Esq.), had given a ball at the Town-hall; about 180 guests were present; Mr. Sturge led the band; and Mr. Collins provided the refreshments. A large otter, measuring 4¾ feet and weighing 30 lbs., had been shot near the North River; it had previously been pursued by a skater, who had seized it by the tail, when it turned upon him and inflicted a considerable wound on his wrist. Jan. 15th.—The Magistrates had refused to convict in a vaccination case, which conduct was greatly exercising the Board of Guardians. Jan. 25th.—The schooner “Starling” had foundered in the fair way of the harbour between the piers, and thus blocked the navigation. Feb. 1st.—The first subscription ball was advertised with the following list of stewards:—The Mayor, Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., Henry E. Buxton, Charles Sharpe Sharpe, and William Danby-Palmer, Esqs. Mr. W. J. Foreman had presided at the meeting of the Great Yarmouth Building Society, and Mr. Frederick Palmer at the meeting of the Norfolk and Suffolk Building Society. Each institution published a favourable report of its proceedings and declared bonuses of £15 and £16 13s. 4d. respectively. Mr. Woodger had given 20 tons of coal to the poor in the South Ward. Feb. 8th.—Contains the following account of the death of Robert Steward, Esq.:—
A quantity of human remains had been discovered in a vault in Row 112. Feb. 15th.—Mr. E. H. H. Combe and Mr. Nelson had been nominated to fill the vacancy, created by Mr. Steward’s death, in the Southtown Ward. J. C. Smith, Esq., had presided at the anniversary of the “Loyal Prince of Wales Lodge,” M.U.O.F., at the Market Tavern, when about sixty brethren were present. Feb. 25th.—There were 900 boats then engaged in the fishing, of the gross tonnage of 14,788 tons, manned by 4051 men and 531 boys. Mr. E. H. H. Combe had been returned as a member of the Council for the Southtown Ward. March 8th.—Police-constable Shreeve had met with a fatal accident by falling from the fire escape. The pauper lunatics, 18 in number, had been removed from London to the Ipswich Asylum. An old house in Row 132 had fallen down. March 11th.—The late R. Steward, Esq., had bequeathed a legacy of £19 19s. to each of the following charities:—The Great Yarmouth Hospital, the Priory, St. Peter’s, and Gorleston National Schools, the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, the Norwich Blind Institution, the National School Society, the Boys’ Hospital School (Norwich), the C. M. Society, and the S. P. G. Society. March 22nd.—A fine pike, weighing upwards of 25lbs., had been shot in one of the neighbouring Broads. April 18th.—At the Guardians’ Election the new and largely augmented constituency was polled for the first time. There was a regular party fight, Mr. John Cooper acting as Conservative agent, and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer for the Liberals, the following being the result:—
April 22nd.—Mr. Bowgin, who had died at the age of 90, had left a considerable sum of money to local charities. April 26th.—At the first meeting of the recently elected Board of Guardians, Mr. Frederick Palmer and Mr. John A. Norman were respectively elected chairman and vice-chairman, in the place of Mr. C. Woolverton and Mr. W. Laws. The smack “Sevastopol” (belonging to Mr. H. Fenner) had been destroyed by fire on the fishing grounds. Judge Worlledge had been appointed Chancellor of the Diocese in the place of Mr. Howes, deceased. May 10th.—Records the death of Richard Hammond, Esq., as follows:—“It is with deep regret that we announce the death of this much respected gentleman, who expired at his residence, Regent Road, on Saturday morning last, after a rather lengthened illness. Mr. Hammond during his long career has occupied so prominent a position, and has ranked so high in the opinion of all classes of his fellow-townsmen, that his death, although regarded as imminent, created much sensation. The deceased, who was born in 1792, and was consequently at the time of his decease in his 79th year, was one of the oldest Magistrates of the borough, having been called to the Bench in 1841. During the long period that Mr. Hammond was associated with the administration of justice he was remarkable for his uprightness and thorough independence of character. Wealthy, but yet conspicuous for his unostentatious mode of life, he was at all times accessible to those of his poorer fellow townsmen, many of whom were wont to seek his counsel, and advice. In the exercise of his magisterial functions, he was ever disposed to temper justice with mercy, and in his death there must be many who must feel that they have lost a true and valued friend. The deceased for many years occupied a leading position as among the most prominent, forward, yet consistent members of the Liberal party, and although he had of late ceased to take any active part in political controversies, he was always deeply interested in everything that pertained to the advancement of the cause which he had so greatly at heart. Mr. Hammond, who was largely connected at one time with the fisheries, had also a considerable stake in the shipping of the port, and accumulated a large property, the bulk of which will, doubtless, have been bequeathed to his three nieces, as he was unmarried. Out of respect to the deceased, the flags on the Town Hall, public buildings, and shipping have been hoisted half-mast, while many private families have shown similar marks of regard to the memory of the deceased.” The Guardians had decided to allow Nonconformist Ministers to visit at the Workhouse. May 17th.—One boat had landed 1,000 mackerel, and that fish was selling at from 20s. to 25s. per hundred. May 20th.—The late Mr. Hammond had left the following charitable legacies:—Hospital, £50; Sailors’ Home, £19 19s.; Priory schools, £50; The cost of taking the census had amounted to £110 15s. June 3rd.—Records the death of David A. Gourlay, Esq., as follows:—“We regret to record the death of this gentleman, who expired at his residence on Wednesday, at the advanced age of 89 years. During his long connection with the town, Mr. Gourlay contrived to amass considerable wealth, having been largely connected with the shipping interest of the port. The deceased was a much respected member of the Liberal party in the borough, and in 1849 filled the office of Mayor. He was also a Magistrate, having been placed on the roll of Justices in 1858, and for many years represented the Market Ward in the Town Council, which position he only resigned last year. Mr. Gourlay was of a singularly quiet habit, devoting his entire time to business pursuits, which he continued until advancing years and infirmities compelled retirement. The deceased was deeply interested in the educational movements of the town, and a few years since presented the magnificent donation of £1,000 towards the Wesleyan Schools. As a mark of respect to his memory the flags on the Town Hall and shipping have been hoisted half mast. The number of borough magistrates who have died since 1863 has now reached 15.” June 10th.—There had been a stormy discussion in the Council with regard to the proposal to appoint Messrs. Salmon Palmer, Garson Blake, and John W. de Caux, Justices for the Borough, when Mr. James W. Bunn moved, and Mr. C. Woolverton seconded a resolution to the effect that such appointments “would be objectionable”; and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer moved, and Mr. James Scott seconded an amendment approving such appointments, which was lost by 25 to 7 votes, those voting in the minority being Messrs. F. Danby-Palmer, J. Scott, Frederick Palmer, J. W. de Caux, T. W. Attwood, H. Hammond, and J. A. Norman. Mr. I. Preston’s “Otter” had made a passage from Yarmouth to Harwich, a distance of 52 miles in four and a half hours. June 14th.—Mr. Stafford had resigned the surgeonship for the North District, his salary being £100; he stated that he had 2,093 paupers on his books. June 17th.—One hundred and twenty-seven men of the R.H.A. were encamped on the North Denes, the officers being Captains Fox-Strangeways and Scott; Lieutenants Rothe, Hardinge-Brown, and P. F. Blackwood; Surgeon-Major Lewer, and Vet.-Surgeon Walker. June 21st.—Mr. A. D. Stone had been elected a Haven Commissioner in the place of Mr. Hammond, deceased, without opposition, owing to Mr. de Caux’s nomination paper having been left at the wrong office. June 24th.—The “Oleander,” a barque of 440 tons had been launched from Messrs. Fellows and Son’s yard. July 12th.—At the Water Frolic the “Halcyon” won the first match, and the “Vivid” the second match; Mr. I. Preston, junr., acted as Secretary. There had been a destructive fire at Mr. Bland’s premises on the Queen’s Road. July 26th.—There had been a Volunteer Encampment on the North Denes with a brigade field day, when the troops were under the command of Major-General Murray. The Yarmouth Corps had entertained the Officers of the Norfolk and Suffolk Battalions, the Mayor, Major-General Murray, Brigade Major Ogilvie, Captain Alderson, N.A.M., and several other guests at the Royal Hotel. There had been a proposal made to abolish the Fair. The newly-appointed Magistrates, Messrs. Palmer, Blake, and de Caux had qualified. Aug. 19th.—The Council had voted an address of congratulation to Sir James Paget upon his being created a Baronet. The Prince of Wales had consented to accept the Hon. Colonelcy of the Norfolk Artillery Militia, vacant through the death of Lord Hastings. Aug. 26th.—Tomlinson’s Brewery and the houses attached to it had been sold in lots by public auction. Sept. 2nd.—St. George’s Denes had been for the first time enclosed for a “Floral Fete,” when Mr. James H. Harrison “with rather a rough element at the back” appeared as a champion of public rights. Sept. 6th.—The following Rifle Volunteer Officers had received certificates of proficiency under the new regulations:—Captains Holt, Matthews, and Palmer, and Lieutenants Buxton, Diver, Palmer and Wilson. Sept. 27th.—M. Desfongerais (the re-called French Consul) had been presented with a testimonial before leaving Yarmouth. “Low prices and heavy deliveries” continued to characterise the fishing. Mr. W. B. Neslin, an eccentric character, who had accumulated hundreds, if not thousands of notes of various epitaphs, had died at the age of 70 years. Oct. 18th.—E. P. Youell, Esq., had presided at a meeting called to consider the restoration of Gorleston Church. Oct. 21st.—The New Corn Hall in Howard Street had been opened with a public dinner, when about 200 gentlemen attended, the chair being taken by H. S. Grimmer, Esq., and the vice-chairs by Messrs. G. M. Beck, E. H. H. Combe, E. Press, and J. W. Bunn. Nov. 4th.—Five of the Wards had been contested, with the following result:—
The general result was a gain of one to the Liberal party. Nov. 11th.—Mr. S Nightingale had proposed, and Mr. J. Scott seconded, the re-election of the Mayor (Mr. E. H. L. Preston) and he was re-elected accordingly. The following Aldermen had been re-appointed:—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, and Messrs. R. Purdy, G. S. Shingles, E. P. Youell, R. S. Watling, and W. Danby-Palmer. Rear-Admiral Thomas L. Gooch had been promoted to be a retired Vice-Admiral. The Rifle Volunteers shed on the North Denes had been burnt with the stores contained in it, “and no clue yet obtained to the perpetrator of this wanton piece of mischief.” Nov. 18th.—Mr. Woodger had entertained 40 of his friends at a dinner given by him at St. George’s Tavern, King Street. The Liberals were organising Working Men’s Associations in the several Wards. Nov. 22nd.—The “Reliance,” steamtug, had struck a piece of wreck near the Cross Sand, and become a total wreck. She was valued at £2,500. Nov. 29th.—Three companies of the 33rd Regiment had arrived at the Southtown Barracks. Captain Harvey was making experiments with his sea torpedoes in the Roads, accompanied by Baron de Grancy and M. Vavasseur. Dec. 6th.—There had been disastrous gales, causing great destruction of shipping property and loss of life. Dec. 16th.—A meeting had been held at Gorleston with a view to the restoration of the Church; the Mayor presided, and Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., the Revs. H. Nevill, T. Allnutt (Vicar), J. Walker, S. N. Vowler, and Messrs. E. P. Youell, H. E. Buxton, C. J. Palmer, E. H. H. Combe, W. Teasdel, G. B. Palmer, Stanier, Wilton, Holt, Baumgartner, Bottle, S. Bately, Bellamy, Ling, S. Dowson, W. S. Sandford, Dr. Bately, Capt. Matthews, Capt. Aldrich, &c., were present. Dee. 30th.—Reference is made to the “New Law of Merchant Shipping” (Plimsoll’s Act.) The Prince of Wales being restored to health, it was expected that he would visit Yarmouth with the N.A.M., of which Regiment he was Hon. Colonel, during their training in the Spring. It was estimated that the 600 boats hailing from Yarmouth paid “something like £4000 for towage to the Tug Companies.” Mr. J. F. Neave had erected a new Primitive Methodist Chapel at Bradwell. 1872.Jan. 6th.—Mr. J. T. Clarke had been appointed an Admiralty Commissioner. Jan. 20th.—The Town Council had voted congratulatory addresses to the Queen, and the Prince and Princess of Wales, upon the occasion of the recovery of the Prince from his serious illness. There had been a heavy gale from the S.S.W. Jan. 27th.—It was stated that within 12 years five penny newspapers had been started in Yarmouth, all of which had ceased to exist. Jan. 31st.—Mr. John L. Cufaude, Clerk of the Peace, Clerk to the Guardians, and Superintendent Registrar had died at the age of 61 years. Feb. 3rd.—Messrs. Chamberlin, I. Preston, junr., H. R. Harmer and F. W Ferrier were candidates for the first and Messrs. F. Danby-Palmer and F. S. Costerton for the two latter of these appointments. Feb. 7th.—Mr. F. Danby-Palmer had been elected Superintendent Registrar by “a large majority,” the other candidates being Messrs. S. C. Burton and H. Cowl. Bro. James Carter had been installed W.M. of Lodge “Friendship.” A new route (the loop line) was being constructed between Yarmouth and Lowestoft at a cost of £15,000. Feb. 14th.—Mr. F. Danby-Palmer had been unanimously elected Clerk to the Board of Guardians. Feb. 17th.—At the Council meeting Mr. W. Laws proposed, and Mr. T. M. Baker seconded, Mr. I. Preston, junr.’s appointment as Clerk of the Peace, and Mr. J. W. Foreman proposed, and Mr. J. Bracey seconded, Mr. H. R. Harmer for that office. The voting was—For Mr. Preston: The Mayor and Messrs. J. T. Bracey, Laws, Mabson, Teasdel, Purdy, Nightingale, Bly, Barnby, Norman, Preston (Isaac junr.), Baker, Wright, George, Woolverton, Burton, Ferrier, Todd, Veale, Fenner, Gooda, and W. Hammond (22), And for Mr. Harmer: Messrs. Bunn, Harmer, Youell, William Danby-Palmer, Worship, Hilton, Neave, Nuthall, Fyson, Barber, Mr. Attwood declined to vote. After the voting the following “scene” took place between the Mayor and Mr. Harmer:—
Feb. 28th.—Mr. I. Preston, jun., the newly-elected Clerk of the Peace, had entertained the Recorder and Bar at the Sessions. In the Market Ward, Mr. R. Dumbleton and Mr. J. Garratt had been candidates for the seat vacated by Mr. Preston, when the former gentleman was elected by a majority of 191. April 6th.—Mr. C. S. D. Steward and Captain Gilbertson had been re-appointed Churchwardens, and Messrs. Ellis, Skoulding, Lay and Pestell, Overseers. April 3rd.—Nathaniel Palmer, Esq., Recorder, had died at Coltishall, aged 79; it was stated that “The deceased was at one period of his career a prominent member of the Whig party, and was generally known as ‘Orator Palmer.’ He acted with the other members of the Palmer family and their cousins—the Stewards and Hurrys—and was with them instrumental in opening the borough of Great Yarmouth in 1818.” The following officers were then with the E.N.M. at its annual training:—Colonel Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., Lieutenant-Colonel Glover, Major Matthew, Captains Dods, Ensor, Applewaite, Ambrose, and McEnry, and Lieutenants Haly, Howes, Long, Lacon, Haggard, Fryer, Barber and Napier. Captain Lacon being absent. April 13th.—The following had been the result of the Guardians’ Election.—
Woolverton (C) and Bracey (C) (numbers not given.) The result was that 10 Liberals to 4 Tories had been elected. The Town Council had recommended Mr. Mills for the office of Recorder, he having acted for several years as the late Mr. Palmer’s deputy in that office. April 24th.—The first week in June had been fixed for the Prince of Wales’ visit to the town. Mr. Frederick Palmer had been re-appointed chairman, and Messrs. J. A. Norman and J. F. Neave, vice-chairmen of the Board of Guardians. Mr. Simms Reeve had been appointed Recorder in the place of Mr. Palmer deceased; it was stated that he was called to the Bar in 1850 and was a member of the Norfolk Circuit. May 8th.—Funds were being raised for the purpose of decorating the town on the occasion of the Prince of Wales’ visit. May 11th.—The Town Council had formed itself into a committee to consider the public steps to be taken with regard to that event. May 25th.—Simms Reeve, Esq., had been appointed Judge of the Borough Court of Record. June 1st.—James Scott, Esq., J.P., and one of the Councillors for the St. George’s Ward, had died. June 8th.—Records the first visit of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales to the town, when he lodged at Mr. Cuddon’s house (Shaddingfield Lodge). The town was very handsomely decorated, and His Royal Highness was received at the Southtown Railway Station by the Reception Committee which consisted of Lord Sondes, the Mayor, the Recorder, the Town Clerk, and Messrs. William Mabson, W. T. Attwood, R. D. Barber, F. Dendy, H. R. Harmer, Frederick Ferrier, E. H. H. Combe, F. Danby-Palmer, E. P. Youell, S. Nightingale, R. S. Watling, and Bessey. After the Recorder had presented the Corporate address, His Royal Highness and the Committee proceeded to the Town Hall, where 200 guests were entertained. Subsequently His Royal Highness proceeded to the Grammar School and opened the newly-erected hall there. In the evening the town was illuminated. June 15th.—Mr. S. K. Smith had been elected a Councillor for St. George’s Ward in the place of Mr. J. Scott deceased. June 19th.—“Notes and Queries” contained a notice of Palmer’s “Perlustration of Great Yarmouth,” 400 pages of which had then been issued from the press. A man named Howes had been killed through the bursting of a rocket at the Coastguard Station during the Prince’s visit. June 22nd records the funeral of the late Mr. Edward Fyson, a member of the Town Council and Captain in the Rifle Volunteers. The Rev. J. J. Raven had had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of Cambridge. June 26th.—Mr. Simms Reeve had sat as Recorder for the first time at the Quarter Sessions. The Town was filling rapidly with visitors. June 29th.—The polling in the Market Ward had resulted as follows:—
The marriage of Miss Watling (only daughter of Robert S. Watling, Esq.) and Mr. Samuel Nightingale (nephew of Samuel Nightingale, Esq.) had been celebrated “amid great rejoicing.” The new organ at St. Mary’s, Southtown, was estimated to cost £250. Mural paintings had been discovered in Gorleston Church. July 13th.—A ghost was reported to be frequenting the Churchyard; upwards of 1,000 persons attended at one time to see it. July 20th.—It was stated that in the year 1871, 19,781 lasts of fish, weighing 39,562 tons, had been conveyed by rail from Yarmouth. Coal had advanced to 32s. per ton. Mr. Palmer had returned from his cruise along the Dutch coast in the yacht “Oasis.” July 31st.—The men at Lacon’s Brewery had struck for and obtained an advance of 3s. a week in their wages. Aug. 10th.—The observance of the Bank Holiday Act had resulted in an “enormous influx” of excursionists. Aug. 17th.—Messrs. Fellows, Dendy, and Spelman had been appointed Borough Justices. The following had been the result of the polling for a Guardian to supply the place of the late Mr. Scott in St. George’s Ward:—
Aug. 21st.—The Mayor (E. H. L. Preston, Esq.,) had died in the 66th year of his age. Aug. 31st.—Mr. C. Woolverton had, on the motion of Mr. Worship, seconded by Mr. Bunn, been elected Mayor for the residue of the year of office in the place of the late Mr. Preston deceased. Aug. 31st.—The Channel Fleet—consisting of the “Achilles,” flagship of Rear-Admiral Randolph, C.B., (Captain Hamilton), 6,121 tons, 1,250 horse power, 26 guns; “Hector,” (Captain Cochran), 4,019 tons, 800 horse power, 18 guns; “Penelope,” (Captain Wake), 3,096 tons, 600 horse power, 11 guns; “Audacious,” (Captain Hope), 3,774 tons, 800 horse power, 14 guns; “Vanguard,” (Captain Spain), 3,774 tons, 800 horse power, 14 guns; “Black Prince,” (Captain Lacey), 6,109 tons, 1,125 horse power, 28 guns; “Resistance” (Captain Montgomery), 3,710 tons, 600 horse power, 16 guns; “Favorite,” (Captain Ross), 2,094 tons, 400 horse power, 10 guns—had arrived in the Roads. The Artillery Volunteers fired a salute of 13 guns from the South Battery in Sept. 4th.—Records the departure of the Fleet. Sept. 11th.—The first Election under the Ballot Act had been held. This took place in the North Ward, upon the decease of the Mayor, and resulted in the return of the Conservative candidate, the numbers being for
Thus, upon a register of some 1,300 voters, only 629 persons polled. Sept. 14th.—Mr. Bunn had been elected a Haven Commissioner by the Council in the place of the late Mr. Preston. Gas had been increased from 4s. to 5s. per 1000 feet “owing to the increased cost of coal and labour.” Oct. 5th.—Mr. Leach’s oil and lamp shop and warehouse in the Market Place had been destroyed by fire. Mr. Leach’s stock alone thus burnt was valued at £1,000; the house belonging to Mrs. Ellis; both these items were, however, covered by insurance. Oct. 12th.—The fish merchants were urging their grievances against the Railway Company. Oct. 16th.—The first rail of the tramway on the Southtown Road had been laid and fixed by Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P. In the evening a dinner had been given at the Town Hall in connection with the ceremony. Jas. Goodson, Esq., presided, and there were also present—the Mayor, the Recorder, the Mayor of Beccles, Captain Penrice, C.B., Mr. Garnham and Mr. Cotching (Directors of the Tramway Company) and Messrs. E. P. Youell, E. H. H. Combe, W. H. Chambers, R. H. Harmer, H. B. Rathbone, Browne, F. Danby-Palmer, J. Hudspith, Jewson, Fox, Underwood, Geard, Brooks, Harrison, G. Billington, Davidson, Cooke, J. H. Bly, Bales, Light, C. J. Palmer, H. Martin, H. Fenn, Dickson, Brown, junr., J. W. Cockrill, May, Filby, J. Thomas, Leathes, A. Nelson, H. Catton, Shipley, &c. The town had been visited by a heavy gale from the S.W. Oct. 26th.—Coal was reduced in price from 34s. to 27s. per ton. Prices for herring had ruled from £7 to £13 for salted, and from £8 to £20 for fresh fish; 3,454 lasts had been landed. Nov. 6th.—The Municipal Election had resulted as follows:—
Subsequently a meeting of Liberals was held in the Regent-ward to congratulate Messrs. Burton and Blake upon their “victory” there. Mr. Lovewell Blake (chairman), and Messrs. F. Palmer, J. Woodger, J. F. Neave, T. Green, Frank Burton, and J. H. Norman took part in this proceeding. Nov. 16th.—Mr. William Worship had been injured in an accident which had happened on the Great Eastern line near Kelvedon. Nov. 30th.—Mr. A. E. Cowl had passed the Legal Examination. Dec. 4th.—A Mrs. Harvey had died at Rollesby at the age of 104 years. A very heavy gale, almost rivalling that of 1860, had visited this coast. The following Income Tax Commissioners had been nominated:—The Mayor, and Messrs. S. C. Burton, E. P. Youell, W. Mabson, F. Danby-Palmer, J. W. de Caux, and J. T. Bracey. Dec. 18th.—Garson Blake, Esq. had been appointed Belgian Consul in succession to the late Mr. Preston. Dec. 28th.—The following gentlemen then held commissions in the Rifle Volunteers:—Major, James Henry Orde; Captains, William Holt, W. P. P. Matthews, A. J. Palmer, and G. W. Moore; Lieutenants, S. Aldred, C. Diver, B. Wilson, W. H. Palmer, and H. E. Buxton; Ensigns, F. Danby-Palmer, J. T. Clarke, W. Brown, and R. Stanier; Adjutant, F. A. Cubitt; Surgeon, W. E. Wyllys; Chaplain, H. R. Nevill; Quarter-Master, T. W. Doughty. With this year ends the file of the Norwich Mercury, which was preserved by the late Robert Palmer-Kemp, Esq., that gentleman dying at his seat, Coltishall Manor (which was devised to him by his grandfather, William Danby-Palmer, Esq.), on 11th May, 1873. Mr. Kemp was for many years an active County Magistrate; and in the earlier part of his life, prior to leaving Yarmouth, took part, with his half-brother, Major Samuel Charles Marsh, and other members of his family, in our local politics; later on, however (although in the Commission of the Peace for our borough) he rarely visited his native town. Leaving no issue, he devised his estates to his cousin, George William Danby-Palmer, Esq. (who subsequently assumed the name of Kerrison, under the provisions of the will of the late Charles Kerrison, Esq.), and that gentleman still holds the Coltishall property. | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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