FOURTH SERIES, 1861–1872. (continued 2)

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.

Nov. 4th.—There had only been contests in the Nelson Ward, where Mr. de Caux opposed the re-election of Messrs. Bartram and Barber (Libs.), and in the St. Andrew’s Ward, where Mr. Downing opposed the re-election of Messrs. Preston and Teasdel (Cons.), but in both cases the “opposition proved fruitless.”

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.

1867.

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—

For Mr. Charles Cory (Town-clerk) 25

,, ,, Robert Steward 24

,, ,, E. H. L. Preston 22

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.

On the revision of the Proxy Book, Mr. C. Diver had appeared for the Conservatives and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer for the Liberals.

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:—

For Mr. Watling 191

„ Mr. Scott 91

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.

The following Guardians had been elected:—

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 12th.—There had been an alarming fire on Mr. Barnes’ and Mr. Gooda’s premises at Southtown.

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:—

H. M. S.

“Glance” 2 58 30

“Star of the East” 3 4 46

“Eclipse” 3 5 30

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.

Sep. 7th.—The Mortuary Chapel at the Roman Catholic Cemetery, Caister Road, had been consecrated by the Roman Catholic Bishop of Demerara.

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 Ensor, Captain Rivers, and Messrs. Brightwen, R. Steward, C. H. Chamberlin, S. Dowson, S. Nightingale, C. C. Aldred, J. Baumgartner, C. Cory, A. Steward, W. Danby-Palmer, Frederick Palmer, F. Worship, J. Starling, R. D. Fowler, T. George, T. P. Burroughs, T. Olley, C. Rose, J. Dumbleton, J. Bracey, E. Stagg, G. W. Giles, T. Moore, Maclean, Shales, Barge, E. Cooke, J. Mainprice, Boning, &c., and there were also a number of ladies present.

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:—

T. George (Con.) 124

T. Todd (Ind.) 114

Livingston (Lib.) 26

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 Regiment) with a view to adopting measures for the more efficient protection of property within the borough.

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.

“The Cigar Ship.—This novel specimen of marine architecture, known as the ‘cigar ship,’ put into this harbour on Friday last, and has since continued to be an object of great curiosity among our seafaring population. The vessel, which is named the ‘Walter S. Winans,’ was built by the firm of Messrs. Winans, American contractors, and is stated to be on an experimental cruise, with the view of thoroughly testing her sea-going qualities. She is fitted with a screw propeller, the fans of which are entirely submerged. Her engines are of 35 horse power, but can be worked up to 50, and it is stated she has attained a speed of 14 miles an hour. The peculiarity of her build gives her a singular appearance, her cone-shaped bow projecting for some distance clear of the water, while her stern is more depressed. This gives her a very unsightly look, and it is evident that her builders have sacrificed everything in her construction to attain a high rate of speed, her berthing and general accommodation being of an inferior character compared with other sea-going steamers.”

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.

June 27th.—The following had taken part in an Amateur performance at the Regent Hall for the benefit of the Hospital:—Miss Lawes, Miss T. Lawes, Messrs. Colley, Meadows, Lawes, Cattermole, Fenn, Watson, Godfrey, Cooke, Spence, H. Baker, J. Franklin, and Mr. and Mrs. J. F. Young.

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. T. Brightwen, I. Preston, W. Holt, E. H. H. Combe, C. Diver, Captain Dods, J. C. Smith, W. J. Foreman, G. S. Shingles, R. Gorell, T. George, B. Dumbleton, J. T. Bracey, J. Bracey, F. Ferrier, H. Cowl, B. Jay, C. Preston, E. Stagg, T. Todd, T. W. Doughty, J. Bunn, J. Cooper, J. Buston, J. G. Ellis, G. Beck, E. Boult, W. Mabson, J. H. Bly, T. C. Foreman, Burgess, &c., &c.

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. 7th.—The Mayor, with Messrs. W. T. Fisher and R. B. Ellis as assessors, had held the Municipal Revision Court at the Tolhouse, when Mr. F. Danby-Palmer appeared for the Liberals and Mr. C. Diver for the Conservatives.

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:—

Regent Ward.

E. Stagg (Con.) 177

J. Burton (Con) 128

T. Todd (Ind.) 92

Market Ward.

C. C. Aldred (Con.) 174

E. Fyson (Con.) 158

J. F. Neave (Lib.) 133

J. G. Overend (Lib.) 119

St. Andrew’s Ward.

J. P. Baumgartner (Lib.) 276

F. Dendy (Lib.) 274

H. Teasdel (Con.) 173

R. Dumbleton (Con.) 176

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.

Nov. 14th.—At the Council meeting, S. Nightingale, Esq., had been on the motion of Mr. C. C. Aldred, seconded by Mr. Woolverton, elected Mayor.

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:—

Walpole 2,642

Lacon 2,574

Wodehouse 2,237

Gurdon 2,081

At Yarmouth it was stated that:—

“the proceedings throughout the day in connection with the polling for this part of the district were characterised by considerable excitement. The Conservatives from the opening of the poll took a prominent position, and as hour by hour passed away their majority steadily increased, until by three o’clock they were, according to their published returns, nearly 400 ahead. No statement of the poll was made during the day by the Liberals, but every exertion was made to reduce the Conservative majority. Cabs and carriages bearing placards of “Vote for Wodehouse and Gurdon” were dashing about in all directions, keeping up the excitement; but, despite every effort, the influence of the local candidate proved too strong to be successfully resisted, and at four the Conservative declaration of numbers showed the following result:—

Lacon 948

Walpole 890

Wodehouse 505

Gurdon 469

The polling at Ormesby for the Hundreds of East and West Flegg was also, as might have been anticipated, greatly in favour of the Conservative candidates. Despite these adverse returns, the Liberal agents were sanguine of better results in other parts of the district, but their majorities at Cromer, Wells, and Holt, failed to make any material change, so far as the issue of the election was concerned, and it became at length apparent that the hopes of the Liberal majority in North Norfolk were at an end. Notwithstanding the excitement engendered by the contest, the election was conducted throughout with great good humour. During the day the streets and approaches to the polling places were thronged by persons who amused themselves by cheering and shouting in favour of their respective candidates, but there was, during the afternoon, an entire absence of the drunkenness and violence that characterised previous borough elections. If the numbers polled be examined, it will be found that in the county (excluding Yarmouth) Mr. Wodehouse and Mr. Gurdon are in a slight majority. It was in Yarmouth where the majority was obtained, and which, we hear, will yet be found to have been obtained by illegal practices.”

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.”

1869.

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:—

Mr. T. W. Doughty (Con.) 104

Mr. H. Hammond (Lib.) 82

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.

April 7th.—The following Guardians had been elected:—North Ward: S. Nightingale, J. T. Buston, and J. F. Neave. Market Ward: C. C. Aldred and W. Laws (with a tie between J. A. Norman and R. Tunbridge). Regent Ward: W. Worship, R. D. Barber and C. Diver. St. George’s Ward: J. W. de Caux, J. Scott, and J. Rivett. Nelson Ward: C. Woolverton, J. T. Bracey, J. H. Harrison, and G. W. Moore.

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:—

Mr. J. H. Orde 25

Mr. E. H. L. Preston 3

July 14th.—The 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers (under command of Captain W. Danby-Palmer) had attended St. Peter’s Church.

July 24th.—The following appointments had been made in the 2nd Norfolk Rifle Volunteers:—W. P. P. Matthews to be Captain, B. Wilson to be Lieutenant, William H. Palmer to be Ensign, W. E. Wyllys to be Surgeon, and T. W. Doughty to be Hon. Assistant Quarter-Master.

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:—

St. Nicholas’ Ward.

Mr. S. Nightingale (Con.) 266

Mr. E. H. L. Preston (Con.) 228

Mr. J. F. Neave (Lib.) 176

Market Ward.

Mr. J. E. Barnby (Con.) 246

Mr. Nuthall (Con.) 209

Mr. J. A. Norman (Lib.) 195

Regent Ward.

Mr. T. George (Con.) 158

Mr. W. Wright (Con.) 156

Mr. F. Danby-Palmer (Lib.) 82

Mr. John Clowes (Lib.) 72

St. George’s Ward.

Mr. J. W. de Caux (Lib.) 156

Mr. W. J. Foreman (Con.) 151

Mr. Chas. Palmer (Con.) 137

Mr. H. Hammond (Lib.) 132

Nelson Ward.

Messrs. Veale and Bracey (Con.) unopposed.

St. Andrew’s Ward.

Messrs. Gooda and Richmond (Con.) unopposed.

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. 26th.—Another wrecked vessel had been in contact with the Britannia Bier.

Jan. 29th.—Mr. J. H. Orde had been elected Borough Treasurer in the place of Mr. T. Brightwen deceased.

Two vessels had been in collision with the Newarp lightship.

Feb. 12th.—J. Tomlinson, Esq., had been elected Commodore of the Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club.

There had been a boiler explosion at Messrs. Bracey and Son’s Ropery.

Feb. 16th.—There had been very heavy gales and much loss to the shipping.

During one of these gales the Assembly Rooms had been discovered to be on fire, and this building thus sustained damage to the extent of £700 or £800.

Feb. 19th.—A meeting had been held at the Town Hall for the relief of the poor. The Mayor presided, and the Rev. Canon Nevill, Mr. Hammond, Major Orde, Mr. W. N. Burroughs, Mr. Gorell, Mr. John Clowes, Mr. Neave, and Mr. Laws took part in the proceedings. Between £200 and £300 was raised in the room.

Feb. 26th.—The organ in the Parish Church had been re-opened. This instrument appears from the report then issued to have been built by Jordan in 1732, and previously repaired in 1812 and 1840; the repairs this time costing £820.

March 12th.—Mr. Longley had been holding an Inquiry at the Tolhouse with regard to the alleged neglect of a pauper patient by Mr. Stafford (Surgeon for the North District).

March 19th.—Messrs. Blott had been prosecuted by the Haven Commissioners for obstructing the North River, when they were defended by Mr. F. Danby-Palmer, and the case adjourned in order to effect a settlement.

March 26th.—The Rifle Corps had attended Gorleston Church, and afterwards marched round that village. This was the first time such a parade had taken place.

April 9th.—Captain Smyth, R.N., and Captain Dent, R.N., had been promoted to the rank of Admiral.

April 13th.—The following had been the polling of the elected Guardians (there being in all 32 candidates).—North: S. Nightingale (C), 356; J. F. Neave (L), 308; J. D. Hilton (C), 292; S. Barge (C), 248. In this ward Mr. Cufaude had decided that Mr. Neave was disqualified, and had consequently declined to declare that gentleman elected, Mr. Neave’s solicitor (Mr. F. Danby-Palmer) had, however, taken a different view of the affair, and this question was to form the subject of further proceedings. Market: J. A. Norman (L), 429; C. C. Aldred (C), 365; W. Laws (C), 345. Regent: R. D. Barber, W. Worship, and C. Diver (no figures given.) St. George’s: J. W. de Caux (L), 356; J. Scott (L), 312; W. J. Foreman (C), 284. Nelson: G. Woolverton (C), 615.; J. Bracey (C), 548; F. Palmer (L), 392; J. Clowes (L), 345.

April 16th.—Mr. Cufaude had submitted an elaborate statement upon Mr. Neave’s case to the Local Government Board.

The constitution of the Guardians was then 10 Tories and 6 Liberals.

April 23rd.—“Yachting Items”: Mr. Palmer was building a schooner yacht. Mr. Preston had purchased the “Otter.” The “Red Rover” (Nightingale) was being altered, as was also the “Syren.”

Messrs. Mills and Blake had launched a new barge.

Mrs. Bowyer Vaux, her son, and a friend, had been upset in a sailing boat on Breydon.

April 30th.—At a sale of Gas Shares, those of £30 realised £45 per share, and those of £7 10s., £11 10s. per share. It was stated that the maximum dividend of 8½ per cent. was regularly paid on this stock.

May 4th.—Sir Alexander Shafto Adair, Bart., (Lib.), and Lord Mahon (Con.) were candidates for East Suffolk.

May 14th.—Mr. J. Fenn had caught a perch weighing 3½ lbs. and 18 inches in length.

May 18th.—There was a report current of a fracas having taken place between two leading members of the Tory party during a meeting at the Star Hotel.

May 21st.—The Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club Dinner had taken place at the Town Hall.

May 25th.—“It is stated that the gallant gentleman, (Major Foreman) who figured in 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. In the evening the officers messed at the Crown and Anchor, when the following were among the guests present—The Mayor (C. Woolverton, Esq.), the Deputy-Mayor (S. Nightingale, Esq.), Rev. B. Vaux, J. C. Smith, Esq., E.N.M., C. Diver, Esq., (Town Clerk), Captain Cubitt, Captain Alderson, N.M.A., Major Foreman, C. J. Palmer, Esq., and I. Preston, Esq.

June 4th.—The following had been the result of the East Suffolk Election:—

Lord Mahon (Con.) 3,456

Sir A. S. Adair, Bart. (Lib.) 3,285

Captain Alderson and Lieutenant Partridge, of the Norfolk Artillery Militia, had given a Ball at the Town Hall.

June 11th.—The Nottingham Order of Odd Fellows had held its annual festival at the Corn Hall, Bro. Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., P.I.F., taking the chair, supported by Bros. Moxon, E. P. Youell, W. Laws, W. J. Foreman, W. T. Fisher, J. H. Fellows, J. Bracey, and Mr. Wiltshire.

Mr. Cattermole (Librarian) had been presented with a testimonial in the shape of a watch of the value of £25 and a cheque for £31 10s.

June 15th.—Admiral Smyth, R.N., had resigned the office of Pier-Master after 35 years service.

June 18th.—The decision of the Local Government Board being in favour of Mr. F. Danby-Palmer’s contention, and against that of Mr. Cufaude, consequent thereon Mr. Neave was entitled to his seat at the Board of Guardians.

June 22nd.—The brigantine “Ethel” had been launched from Mr. Rust’s yard.

June 25th.—The officers of the Norfolk Artillery Militia had given a grand Military Ball at the Assembly Rooms.

Mr. C. S. D. Steward and party had caught 10 perch on Ormesby Broad, four of which weighed 12lbs.

The Yarmouth Co-operative Society was in liquidation, and Mr. Lovewell Blake, the liquidator, had summoned several of the contributors for arrears of call.

July 2nd.—Quarter-Master Doughty, Colour-Sergeant Chipperfield, Sergeants Lay and Wilshak and Privates Harpour and Wales had been selected to go to Wimbledon.

Mr. I. Preston, accompanied by his friend, Mr. T. M. Baker, had sailed for Holland in the river yacht “Otter.”

July 16th.—The opening services in connection with the New Middlegate Congregational Church had taken place. The Rev. J. C. Harrison preached from Psalm cxvi., 12 and 13; the cost of this building, &c., (less sale of old material) had amounted to £3,515 8s. 8d.; the architect was Mr. J. T. Bottle, the contractor Mr. William Hood, and the sub-contractors Messrs. Burgess, Dumbleton, Sargeson, and Barge.

The luncheon, in connection with the event, was held at the “Crown and Anchor,” when the Rev. W. Tritton presided; about 250 persons were present, addresses were delivered by the Chairman, the Rev. J. C. Harrison, the Rev. Dr. Mellor, and Messrs. S. W. Spelman, J. Crossley, J. T. Bottle and others.

July 23rd.—The D Troop B Brigade of the Royal Horse Artillery had arrived at the Southtown Barracks under the command of Colonel Mitchell, comprising 150 officers and men with 120 horses and 6 guns.

July 27th.—Upon Mr. Neave attending to take his seat at the Board of Guardians a “scene” took place, several members accusing Mr. Cufaude of partiality, which that gentleman indignantly denied.

August 13th.—Mr. Attwood had been returned as a Councillor for the St. Andrew’s Ward without opposition, in the place of Mr. Richmond deceased.

August 20th.—The following officers and men of the 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers had gone to Shoeburyness:—Captain Commandant William Danby-Palmer, Lieutenants T. Burton Steward and T. M. Baker, Sergeant Smith, Corporals Harrison and Sadd, Bombardiers Steward and Sayer, Gunners Allcock, Millican, and Woodhouse.

Captain Youell had (after eleven years’ service) retired from the Rifles.

Sept. 3rd.—A meeting had been held to raise a fund for the sufferers by the Franco-German war. The Mayor, the Vicar, Dr. Vores, Mr. J. H. Orde, Mr. C. C. Aldred, the Rev. W. Griffiths, and Mr. S. W. Spelman took part in the proceedings, and upwards of £100 was raised in the room.

Sept. 17th.—Mrs. Gray had bequeathed by will £100 to the Hospital, £19 19s. to the Sailors’ Home, and £10 to the Lying-in Charity.

Upwards of 60 boats had delivered fish at the Wharf, the price being £16 to £22 per last for fresh fish.

Sept. 24th.—The Queen’s bounty had been forwarded to Mrs. Spurge.

Oct. 5th.—At a meeting held at the Turk’s Head, J. Scott, Esq., in the chair, Mr. F. Danby-Palmer and Mr. Hinchman Hammond had been selected as candidates to contest the St. George’s Ward in the Liberal interest.

Mr. J. Petts, R.N., had resigned his command in the Coastguard after 40 years’ service, twelve of which had been spent in Yarmouth.

Oct. 15th.—No minister had attended at St. Peter’s Church to perform service in the afternoon of Sunday.

The old Jetty had been lengthened 60 feet.

Mr. E. Stagg (one of the Councillors for the Regent Ward) had died.

£149 13s. 6d. had been raised for the purpose of presenting a testimonial to Sergeant Berry (of the Police).

Mr. S. K. Smith had landed from one of his boats 24 lasts of herrings, which sold for £264.

It was calculated that some 2,000 French fishermen were then in Gorleston.

Oct. 26th.—Mr. Robert Rising (of Horsey) had been elected a Haven and Pier Commissioner in the place of Mr. Burroughes resigned.

Nov. 5th.—Owing to the extension of the franchise and the “split” in the Conservative camp, the Municipal Election had excited a good deal of attention, as the following report shows:—

“MUNICIPAL ELECTION.”

As was expected, these elections were fought out with considerable spirit, the town throughout the day presenting all the aspects of a contested general election, cabs duly placarded with the names and claims of the candidates rushing about the streets in all directions en route to the various polling-places or committee-rooms.

In the North Ward the Conservatives were early at work, and were enabled to put their candidates considerably ahead, Messrs. Worship and Hilton counting a formidable majority at an early stage of the contest. The friends of Messrs. Neave and Blyth were, however, far from dismayed, and worked with a degree of zeal that certainly deserved if it did not ensure success. In the course of the afternoon the Conservative majority had been greatly reduced, and it looked at one time as if Mr. Neave’s return would have been secured. The aspect of things nerved the Conservatives to renewed efforts and enabled them to keep ahead of their opponents, the result being the return of their candidates, Messrs. Worship and Hilton.

In the Market Ward the greatest excitement prevailed, popular feeling being in favour of Mr. J. Norman (L) and Mr. I. Preston. The latter, although a Conservative, came forward on independent grounds, and as opposed to the compromise that has been entered into for the return of Messrs. Norman and Combe. The last-named gentleman was brought out under the auspices of that section of the Conservative party, better known as the “clique,” which evoked the determined opposition of the “independent” portion of the party. There was another candidate in the person of Mr J. Garratt (L), but that gentleman retired at an early stage of the contest in favour of Mr. Combe. Soon after the commencement of the polling, it became evident that Mr. Norman’s election would be safe, and that the real fight would be between Messrs. Combe and Preston. The last-named had a large staff of energetic supporters, and he was soon placed in a majority which no efforts on the part of his opponents could break down. The result, therefore, in this ward was the return of Messrs. Norman and Preston, which must be regarded as a great blow to the dominant section of the Conservative party, who strained every nerve to carry their man.

The contest in the Regent Ward was of diminished interest as compared with the other parts of the town, and resulted in the return of the Conservative candidates, Messrs. Barber and Tomlinson. Against these gentlemen were arrayed Messrs. Woodger and Page; but the candidature of the two last-named was carried on in a sort of guerilla fashion that evinced little confidence in a successful result, and their respective chances will be found very fully illustrated in the returns given at the close of the poll.

In the St. George’s Ward the battle was between Messrs. Doughty and Baker, (C), and Messrs. Palmer and Hammond (L). Here a most determined fight was made, the Liberals commencing the business of the day in a style that evidently meant winning. Soon after the first hour’s polling, Messrs. Palmer and Hammond took a commanding lead, and although the utmost zeal was evinced on the part of their opponents, they kept increasing their majority until by noon it had assumed such proportions as to place the issue of the contest beyond all question. The result was unexpected, and created quite a sensation among the Conservatives, who chagrined at the turn of affairs in the Market Ward, were little prepared for this fresh source of annoyance and discomfiture.

In the Nelson Ward there was no contest, Messrs. Woolverton, (C), and Stone (L) being unopposed.

The election in the Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward was provocative of the usual excitement, the Gorlestonians coming out in considerable force, and testifying their Conservative or Liberal proclivities in the liveliest manner. The candidates were Messrs. Steward and Hammond, (C), as opposed to Messrs. Beevor and Nelson. The contest was well fought throughout, and resulted in the election of the Conservative candidates.

In celebration of the victory in the St. George’s Ward, the Liberals paraded a band, which did honour to the occasion by playing a selection of popular music through the principal streets.

OFFICIAL DECLARATION.

The official swearing-in of the newly-elected members took place on Thursday afternoon, the proceedings creating more than their wonted interest from the expectation of a “scene.” These anticipations were fully realised. Previous to the commencement of the usual routine, Mr. J. F. Neave, one of the defeated Liberal candidates in the North Ward, addressed Mr. S. Nightingale, and, in a tone of considerable vehemence, charged that gentleman and his supporters with having secured the election by unfair practices by bringing forward individuals to personate voters who were dead or at sea, or by other means equally discreditable. The scene which ensued was of the most lively character, some half-dozen Councillors speaking at once. Those in the body of the Court showed their enjoyment by encouraging shouts of “Go it Neave,” “Give it them,” an appeal, however, which was scarcely necessary, as the North Ward champion appeared in fine mettle, and continued his address, although the greater part of it was lost in the general turmoil. Referring to the result, Mr. Nightingale was understood to say that Mr. Neave would never be so near winning again, which elicited a rejoinder from the latter that he had been told he should never be elected a Guardian, but he had shown them what he could do, and if he were spared he would yet be in the Council. This declaration of future hostilities was received with great uproar, which was with difficulty quelled sufficiently to enable the business of the meeting to be proceeded with. This having been brought to a termination, after sundry interruptions, the newly-elected hastily quitted the Court, the proceedings having afforded a singular exhibition of political amenities, from a Yarmouth point of view.

The following is the official return:—

North Ward.

Mr. Hilton (C) 395

,, Worship (C) 384

„ Neave (L) 371

„ Blyth (L) 287

Market Ward.

Mr. J. A. Norman (L) 402

,, I. Preston, Junr. (C) 376

,, Combe, (C) 336

,, Garratt (L) 4

Regent Ward.

Mr. J. Tomlinson (C) 281

„ R. D. Barber (C) 261

,, Woodger (L) 86

„ R. Page (L) 7

St. George’s Ward.

Mr. F. Danby-Palmer (L) 292

,, H. Hammond (L) 291

,, Baker (C) 164

,, Doughty (C) 142

Nelson Ward.

Messrs. Woolverton (C) and Stone (L) unopposed.

Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward.

Mr. R. Steward (C) 365

,, Hammond (C) 358

,, Beevor (L) 309

,, Nelson (L) 300

As the result of this election, it was believed that Mr. E. H. L. Preston would be Mayor for the ensuing year.

Mr. F. Ferrier had been returned in the place of Mr. Stagg, deceased, for the Regent Ward.

An effort was being made to restore St. George’s Chapel.

Nov. 12th.—At the Council meeting, Mr. J. C. Smith proposed, and Mr. Bracey seconded, Mr. E. H. L. Preston, as Mayor, and this was 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. 16th.—C. E. Bartram, Esq., J.P. and Councillor for the South Ward had died.

Nov. 19th.—The Volunteers had received “Snider Rifles.”

Mr. J. H. Fellows had presided at a meeting at the “New Royal Standard” to select a candidate for the South Ward, when Mr. Fredk. Palmer was brought forward, the other candidates named being Mr. I. Hill, Mr. G. Harvey, and Mr. J. H. Harrison.

Nov. 23rd.—Commissions signed by the Lord Lieutenant:—2nd N.R.V., Lieut. A. J. Palmer to be Captain, vice Youell resigned; Ensign E. H. H. Combe to be Lieut., vice Palmer promoted.

Nov. 26th.—The following had been the result of the election in the Nelson Ward:—

Mr. Fredk. Palmer (L.) 447

„ Isaac Hill (C.) 269

After the declaration of the poll a procession, headed by a band, had paraded the principal streets.

Twelve vessels had already cleared with 28,390 barrels of herring for Italian ports.

Dec. 3rd.—A petition alleging bribery at St. George’s Ward Election, had been presented to the Town Council, and supported there by Mr. J. W. Bunn (one of the Aldermen). Mr. F. Danby-Palmer repudiated the charge on behalf of Mr. Hammond and himself, and, ultimately, on the motion of Mr. Harmer, the document was ordered to be laid “under the table.”

The death of Mr. H. H. Barber (one of the Councillors for the South Ward, and a Captain in the 2nd N.R.V.) is recorded.

In the Nelson Ward Mr. H. Fenner (C.) had been returned in his place, having beaten Mr. Woodger (L.) by 85 votes.

The fishing-boats were “making up” after a very successful voyage.

It was proposed to lay down a tramway from Yarmouth to Lowestoft.

Dec. 17th.—The Mayor had presented the testimonial to Inspector Berry; it consisted of a 20 guinea watch and a purse of £145.

One fishing boat had caught 142 lasts of herring during the season.

It was estimated that £40,000 would be paid to the fishermen in wages.

Messrs. Woolverton and George had opened a Stock Sale at Acle, the former gentleman acting as auctioneer. There were a large number of entries, and fat stock had realised 10s. 6d. per stone.

Dec. 21st.—Miss Emma Pearson (daughter of the late Captain Pearson, R.N.) had written a letter from the seat of war at Orleans, where she was nursing the sick and wounded.

Dec. 24th.—Records the death of Mr. Henry Fellows, shipbuilder, aged 70.

Herring had averaged £10 per last during the season, and it was computed that the money value of the fish caught during the season was £180,000.

Dec. 28th.—Mr. Wyllys’ sledge had upset at the corner of Regent Street, and knocked over a woman, but no serious damage had been sustained.

Dec. 31st.—Mr. J. H. Want had obtained the contract for the erection of a new Post Office in Regent Street.

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.

Feb. 4th.—Bro. Edward Howes had been installed W.M. of Lodge “Friendship,” the members of which lodge had presented a testimonial to Bro. C. L. Chipperfield.

Mr. W. J. Foreman had presided at the meeting of the Great Yarmouth Building Society, and Mr. Frederick Palmer at the meeting of the Norfolk and Suffolk Building Society. Each institution published a favourable report of its proceedings and declared bonuses of £15 and £16 13s. 4d. respectively.

Mr. Woodger had given 20 tons of coal to the poor in the South Ward.

Feb. 8th.—Contains the following account of the death of Robert Steward, Esq.:—

“We regret to record the death of this gentleman who expired suddenly at his residence in Cambridge, on Saturday evening. Mr. Steward for a number of years occupied a very prominent position in this borough, having filled the office of Chief Magistrate on five occasions. He was until recently an active member of the Town Council, having represented the Southtown or St. Andrew’s Ward for a lengthened period, during which time he exhibited a warm interest in all that related to the welfare of the borough. Mr. Steward was one of the first to associate himself with the Volunteer movement, and was ever ready with his purse to aid the cause. It was the occasion of his fifth election to the Mayoralty that his fellow-townsmen determined to present him with a testimonial in recognition of his public services, and so heartily was the appeal responded to, that a sum was soon raised sufficient for the purchase of a handsome service of plate, which was publicly presented at the Town Hall. Latterly Mr. Steward had been suffering from failing health, and had taken up his residence at Cambridge, but on all occasions when anything of public interest was under discussion he was at his accustomed post in the Town Council. Mr. Steward was a Justice of the Peace for the Borough, and also for the County of Suffolk. As a public man his loss will be much felt, for though occasionally overbearing and impetuous, his faults were overlooked in the thorough earnestness with which he applied himself to the promotion of those measures which he considered for the general good. Out of respect the flags on the Town Hall and shipping have been hoisted half-mast.”

A quantity of human remains had been discovered in a vault in Row 112.

Feb. 11th.—A fine hare had been captured in the Market Place, after an exciting chase.

Feb. 15th.—Mr. E. H. H. Combe and Mr. Nelson had been nominated to fill the vacancy, created by Mr. Steward’s death, in the Southtown Ward.

J. C. Smith, Esq., had presided at the anniversary of the “Loyal Prince of Wales Lodge,” M.U.O.F., at the Market Tavern, when about sixty brethren were present.

Feb. 25th.—There were 900 boats then engaged in the fishing, of the gross tonnage of 14,788 tons, manned by 4051 men and 531 boys.

Mr. E. H. H. Combe had been returned as a member of the Council for the Southtown Ward.

March 8th.—Police-constable Shreeve had met with a fatal accident by falling from the fire escape.

The pauper lunatics, 18 in number, had been removed from London to the Ipswich Asylum.

An old house in Row 132 had fallen down.

March 11th.—The late R. Steward, Esq., had bequeathed a legacy of £19 19s. to each of the following charities:—The Great Yarmouth Hospital, the Priory, St. Peter’s, and Gorleston National Schools, the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital, the Norwich Blind Institution, the National School Society, the Boys’ Hospital School (Norwich), the C. M. Society, and the S. P. G. Society.

March 22nd.—A fine pike, weighing upwards of 25lbs., had been shot in one of the neighbouring Broads.

April 18th.—At the Guardians’ Election the new and largely augmented constituency was polled for the first time. There was a regular party fight, Mr. John Cooper acting as Conservative agent, and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer for the Liberals, the following being the result:—

North Ward.

J. F. Neave (L) 844

H. Blyth (L) 662

S. Nightingale (C) 662

J. T. Buston (C) 567

J. Rant (L) 542

S. Barge (C) 478

Market Ward.

J. A. Norman (L) 621

Wm. Laws (C) 476

J. G. Overend (L) 427

R. Dumbleton (C) 418

R. B. Ellis (C) 397

Regent Ward.

R. D. Barber (C) 470

W. Worship (C) 426

J. H. Norman (L) 375

C. Diver (C) 367

J. Clowes (Grocer) (L) 289

R. Bryant (L) 198

St. George’s Ward.

J. W. de Caux (L) 557

J. Scott (L) 478

J. Rivett (L) 371

W. J. Foreman (C) 298

W. Harrison (C) 248

D. Gooch (C) 244

T. Todd (C) 115

Nelson Ward.

F. Palmer (L) 966

C. Woolverton (C) 934

J. Bracey (C) 766

J. Clowes (Solicitor) (L) 678

W. T. Fisher (L) 534

T. C. Foreman (N) 376

G. Harvey (C) 267

J. H. Harrison (N) 8

Previous to the declaration of the numbers by the returning officer,

Mr. John Cooper, on behalf of the Conservative candidates, who had met the previous night, announced his intention not to proceed with the scrutiny before the returning officer, who had no authority to call witnesses, but stated that the whole conduct of the election would be laid before the Poor Law Board with a view to a thorough enquiry being instituted. The election had been conducted in a fraudulent manner. Mr. Cooper, in support of his assertion, instanced the case of Hurr, one of the collectors, who, he alleged, had only returned 113 papers out of 300. Names had also been put on various papers without authority, while the collector (Hurr) had taken his papers to the house of one of the candidates, where they were examined and sorted. Another collector in the Liberal interest, named Norman, had been convicted and sentenced to twelve months’ imprisonment for robbery. Mr. Cooper went on to say that in the Market Ward (Hurr’s district) upwards of twenty papers had never been called for, and he understood that there were upwards of 50 which had been signed by one person. The election had been conducted in such an unfair and scandalous manner, that the Conservatives had resolved upon demanding a Poor Law enquiry.

Mr. Livingston said it would be for Mr. Cooper and his friends to make good the allegations just made. He hoped if there had been any irregularity it would be fully enquired into.

Mr. J. A. Norman (who headed the poll for the Market Ward) supposed that Mr. Cooper had suspected the Liberals had been adopting the former tactics of their opponents, and had taken a leaf out of their book. (Laughter.)

Mr. Overend (another successful candidate for the Market Ward) denied that the papers had been sorted in the shop as alleged, and said the collector called for information.

Mr. Cufaude (the Returning-officer) said the collector ought not to have done this, as it was most irregular and contrary to the instructions given to the collectors. He then gave the return as above, and the proceedings closed.

The result has caused considerable heart-burning among the Conservatives, who have so long held the sway in all matters pertaining to local administration, and they cannot be expected to view with equanimity the storming of one of their chief strongholds by the enemy.

April 22nd.—Mr. Bowgin, who had died at the age of 90, had left a considerable sum of money to local charities.

April 26th.—At the first meeting of the recently elected Board of Guardians, Mr. Frederick Palmer and Mr. John A. Norman were respectively elected chairman and vice-chairman, in the place of Mr. C. Woolverton and Mr. W. Laws.

The smack “Sevastopol” (belonging to Mr. H. Fenner) had been destroyed by fire on the fishing grounds.

Judge Worlledge had been appointed Chancellor of the Diocese in the place of Mr. Howes, deceased.

May 6th.—The Free Lance, a notorious local newspaper, had been proceeded against for libelling Mr. King, of Gorleston.

May 10th.—Records the death of Richard Hammond, Esq., as follows:—“It is with deep regret that we announce the death of this much respected gentleman, who expired at his residence, Regent Road, on Saturday morning last, after a rather lengthened illness. Mr. Hammond during his long career has occupied so prominent a position, and has ranked so high in the opinion of all classes of his fellow-townsmen, that his death, although regarded as imminent, created much sensation. The deceased, who was born in 1792, and was consequently at the time of his decease in his 79th year, was one of the oldest Magistrates of the borough, having been called to the Bench in 1841. During the long period that Mr. Hammond was associated with the administration of justice he was remarkable for his uprightness and thorough independence of character. Wealthy, but yet conspicuous for his unostentatious mode of life, he was at all times accessible to those of his poorer fellow townsmen, many of whom were wont to seek his counsel, and advice. In the exercise of his magisterial functions, he was ever disposed to temper justice with mercy, and in his death there must be many who must feel that they have lost a true and valued friend. The deceased for many years occupied a leading position as among the most prominent, forward, yet consistent members of the Liberal party, and although he had of late ceased to take any active part in political controversies, he was always deeply interested in everything that pertained to the advancement of the cause which he had so greatly at heart. Mr. Hammond, who was largely connected at one time with the fisheries, had also a considerable stake in the shipping of the port, and accumulated a large property, the bulk of which will, doubtless, have been bequeathed to his three nieces, as he was unmarried. Out of respect to the deceased, the flags on the Town Hall, public buildings, and shipping have been hoisted half-mast, while many private families have shown similar marks of regard to the memory of the deceased.”

The Guardians had decided to allow Nonconformist Ministers to visit at the Workhouse.

May 17th.—One boat had landed 1,000 mackerel, and that fish was selling at from 20s. to 25s. per hundred.

May 20th.—The late Mr. Hammond had left the following charitable legacies:—Hospital, £50; Sailors’ Home, £19 19s.; Priory schools, £50; and St. John’s, St. Andrew’s, St. Peter’s and Primitive Methodist schools, £19 19s. each.

The cost of taking the census had amounted to £110 15s.

June 3rd.—Records the death of David A. Gourlay, Esq., as follows:—“We regret to record the death of this gentleman, who expired at his residence on Wednesday, at the advanced age of 89 years. During his long connection with the town, Mr. Gourlay contrived to amass considerable wealth, having been largely connected with the shipping interest of the port. The deceased was a much respected member of the Liberal party in the borough, and in 1849 filled the office of Mayor. He was also a Magistrate, having been placed on the roll of Justices in 1858, and for many years represented the Market Ward in the Town Council, which position he only resigned last year. Mr. Gourlay was of a singularly quiet habit, devoting his entire time to business pursuits, which he continued until advancing years and infirmities compelled retirement. The deceased was deeply interested in the educational movements of the town, and a few years since presented the magnificent donation of £1,000 towards the Wesleyan Schools. As a mark of respect to his memory the flags on the Town Hall and shipping have been hoisted half mast. The number of borough magistrates who have died since 1863 has now reached 15.”

June 10th.—There had been a stormy discussion in the Council with regard to the proposal to appoint Messrs. Salmon Palmer, Garson Blake, and John W. de Caux, Justices for the Borough, when Mr. James W. Bunn moved, and Mr. C. Woolverton seconded a resolution to the effect that such appointments “would be objectionable”; and Mr. F. Danby-Palmer moved, and Mr. James Scott seconded an amendment approving such appointments, which was lost by 25 to 7 votes, those voting in the minority being Messrs. F. Danby-Palmer, J. Scott, Frederick Palmer, J. W. de Caux, T. W. Attwood, H. Hammond, and J. A. Norman.

Mr. I. Preston’s “Otter” had made a passage from Yarmouth to Harwich, a distance of 52 miles in four and a half hours.

June 14th.—Mr. Stafford had resigned the surgeonship for the North District, his salary being £100; he stated that he had 2,093 paupers on his books.

June 17th.—One hundred and twenty-seven men of the R.H.A. were encamped on the North Denes, the officers being Captains Fox-Strangeways and Scott; Lieutenants Rothe, Hardinge-Brown, and P. F. Blackwood; Surgeon-Major Lewer, and Vet.-Surgeon Walker.

Messrs. J. Tolver Waters, Frank Burton, and F. W. Dendy had passed the Legal examination.

June 21st.—Mr. A. D. Stone had been elected a Haven Commissioner in the place of Mr. Hammond, deceased, without opposition, owing to Mr. de Caux’s nomination paper having been left at the wrong office.

June 24th.—The “Oleander,” a barque of 440 tons had been launched from Messrs. Fellows and Son’s yard.

July 12th.—At the Water Frolic the “Halcyon” won the first match, and the “Vivid” the second match; Mr. I. Preston, junr., acted as Secretary.

There had been a destructive fire at Mr. Bland’s premises on the Queen’s Road.

July 26th.—There had been a Volunteer Encampment on the North Denes with a brigade field day, when the troops were under the command of Major-General Murray.

The Yarmouth Corps had entertained the Officers of the Norfolk and Suffolk Battalions, the Mayor, Major-General Murray, Brigade Major Ogilvie, Captain Alderson, N.A.M., and several other guests at the Royal Hotel.

There had been a proposal made to abolish the Fair.

The newly-appointed Magistrates, Messrs. Palmer, Blake, and de Caux had qualified.

Aug. 19th.—The Council had voted an address of congratulation to Sir James Paget upon his being created a Baronet.

The Prince of Wales had consented to accept the Hon. Colonelcy of the Norfolk Artillery Militia, vacant through the death of Lord Hastings.

Aug. 26th.—Tomlinson’s Brewery and the houses attached to it had been sold in lots by public auction.

Sept. 2nd.—St. George’s Denes had been for the first time enclosed for a “Floral Fete,” when Mr. James H. Harrison “with rather a rough element at the back” appeared as a champion of public rights.

Sept. 6th.—The following Rifle Volunteer Officers had received certificates of proficiency under the new regulations:—Captains Holt, Matthews, and Palmer, and Lieutenants Buxton, Diver, Palmer and Wilson.

Sept. 27th.—M. Desfongerais (the re-called French Consul) had been presented with a testimonial before leaving Yarmouth.

Sept. 30th.—Heavy gales had prevailed from the E. and S.E.

“Low prices and heavy deliveries” continued to characterise the fishing.

Mr. W. B. Neslin, an eccentric character, who had accumulated hundreds, if not thousands of notes of various epitaphs, had died at the age of 70 years.

Oct. 18th.—E. P. Youell, Esq., had presided at a meeting called to consider the restoration of Gorleston Church.

Oct. 21st.—The New Corn Hall in Howard Street had been opened with a public dinner, when about 200 gentlemen attended, the chair being taken by H. S. Grimmer, Esq., and the vice-chairs by Messrs. G. M. Beck, E. H. H. Combe, E. Press, and J. W. Bunn.

Nov. 4th.—Five of the Wards had been contested, with the following result:—

North Ward.

Neave (L) 565

Bly(C) 541

Buston (C) 464

Blyth (L) 432

Market Ward.

Fyson (C) 394

Baker (C) 374

Garratt (L) 349

Clowes (L) 321

Regent Ward.

Burton (C) 239

Ferrier (C) 212

Goodwin (L) 137

Livingston (L) 117

St. George’s Ward.

Todd (I) 385

Scott (L) 324

Smith (C) 150

Nelson Ward.

Woodger (L) 742

Fenner (C) 467

Palmer (L) 407

St. Andrew’s Ward.

Dendy (L) and Baumgartner (L), unopposed.

Mr. Edward S. Preston, who had been in the field, having retired at the eleventh hour.

The general result was a gain of one to the Liberal party.

Nov. 11th.—Mr. S Nightingale had proposed, and Mr. J. Scott seconded, the re-election of the Mayor (Mr. E. H. L. Preston) and he was re-elected accordingly.

The following Aldermen had been re-appointed:—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, and Messrs. R. Purdy, G. S. Shingles, E. P. Youell, R. S. Watling, and W. Danby-Palmer.

Rear-Admiral Thomas L. Gooch had been promoted to be a retired Vice-Admiral.

The Rifle Volunteers shed on the North Denes had been burnt with the stores contained in it, “and no clue yet obtained to the perpetrator of this wanton piece of mischief.”

Nov. 18th.—Mr. Woodger had entertained 40 of his friends at a dinner given by him at St. George’s Tavern, King Street.

The Liberals were organising Working Men’s Associations in the several Wards.

Nov. 22nd.—The “Reliance,” steamtug, had struck a piece of wreck near the Cross Sand, and become a total wreck. She was valued at £2,500.

Nov. 29th.—Three companies of the 33rd Regiment had arrived at the Southtown Barracks.

Captain Harvey was making experiments with his sea torpedoes in the Roads, accompanied by Baron de Grancy and M. Vavasseur.

Dec. 6th.—There had been disastrous gales, causing great destruction of shipping property and loss of life.

Dec. 16th.—A meeting had been held at Gorleston with a view to the restoration of the Church; the Mayor presided, and Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., the Revs. H. Nevill, T. Allnutt (Vicar), J. Walker, S. N. Vowler, and Messrs. E. P. Youell, H. E. Buxton, C. J. Palmer, E. H. H. Combe, W. Teasdel, G. B. Palmer, Stanier, Wilton, Holt, Baumgartner, Bottle, S. Bately, Bellamy, Ling, S. Dowson, W. S. Sandford, Dr. Bately, Capt. Matthews, Capt. Aldrich, &c., were present.

Dee. 30th.—Reference is made to the “New Law of Merchant Shipping” (Plimsoll’s Act.)

The Prince of Wales being restored to health, it was expected that he would visit Yarmouth with the N.A.M., of which Regiment he was Hon. Colonel, during their training in the Spring.

Mrs. Walpole, of Southtown, had bequeathed legacies of £50 to the Hospital and £19 19s. to the Sailors’ Home.

It was estimated that the 600 boats hailing from Yarmouth paid “something like £4000 for towage to the Tug Companies.”

Mr. J. F. Neave had erected a new Primitive Methodist Chapel at Bradwell.

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, Tomlinson, Foreman, do Caux, F. Danby-Palmer, Scott, J. Bracey, Stone, Woodger, Combe and Baumgartner (20).

Mr. Attwood declined to vote. After the voting the following “scene” took place between the Mayor and Mr. Harmer:—

Mr. Harmer said he had come forward as a candidate, considering his long connection with the party entitled him to their support. He could not let that opportunity pass without expressing his thanks to those gentleman who had accorded him their votes. He could but think if the Mayor had fought a ‘manly and open game’—(cries of ‘no, no,’ and uproar)—and postponed his canvassing from the Saturday to the Monday, he should have been in a very different position there that day. (Renewed cheers and uproar.) He believed he should have had most of those promises which the Mayor had obtained on the Sunday. (Cries of ‘no, no,’ and general uproar.) He felt certain that a great many of his friends in the Council whom he had known many years, and who had been induced to vote against him, were sorry for it, and had only been led to do so by the promise given the Mayor on Sunday. (Cries and groans and general tumult in the gallery.) He met an old friend the other day, and on asking him for his vote, he replied, ‘I am very sorry I cannot give it you, as I promised the Mayor on Sunday—(cheers and laughter)—but you have my sympathy, and I hope you may win.’ He (Mr. Harmer) could not help replying, ‘Hang your sympathy; give me your vote.’

The Mayor said he could not let Mr. Harmer’s remarks upon himself pass without comment. Coming home quietly from church on the Sunday morning referred to following the mace-bearers, Mr. Harmer came up to him and canvassed him for the Clerkship of the Peace, Mr. Cufaude not being then dead. (Hear, hear, and uproar.) He told Mr. Harmer that Mr. Cufaude was not dead and (he might as well tell them all that passed), said he hoped to God he might live till after March, so that they (the Conservatives) might have the opportunity of fighting the Guardians. (Cheers and counter cheers.) In walking down to the Station-house he said to Mr. Harmer, if that should be the case, and they should get a majority at the Board of Guardians, Mr. Harmer could go in for the Clerk of the Guardians, and he (the Mayor) for the Clerk of the Peace,—(loud laughter)—and that they could work together. Mr. Harmer replied by saying that he should go in for both appointments—(cheers and laughter)—and he (the Mayor) replied that he could not do so, but if he (the Mayor) won one, he would support Mr. Harmer in the other, and if Mr. Harmer was successful in one, he could give him his help in trying to obtain the other appointment for his son. (Hear, hear.) In the afternoon of that day Mr. Cufaude died, and as he knew Mr. Harmer was canvassing, did they think he was such a fool as to let him outstep him. (Cheers and uproar.)

Mr. Harmer rose to reply, but the confusion became so great owing to the shouting and recrimination, backed up by the adherents of the respective parties in the gallery, that scarcely anything could be heard amid the din of words. During a temporary lull in the storm,

Mr. Harmer, who was still speaking excitedly, was understood to say that he did not go between the bark and the tree, but that he wished to tell the whole truth about the conversation between him and the Mayor. He asked the Mayor how Mr. Cufaude was, and he replied that he was very bad indeed, and not expected to live. (At this juncture of Mr. Harmer’s reply several of the Councillors vacated their seats, and left the room, and the disorder which had calmed down a little again broke out. Mr. Harmer, thus interrupted, stopped in his speech, but in response to cries of ‘go on, go on,’ from the public, he turned himself to the gallery, and addressing the occupants of that place, continued his remarks.) He said he observed to the Mayor—‘In case anything happens, what do you intend to do?’ The Mayor replied ‘If my son comes forward I must support him,’ to which he (Mr. Harmer) replied ‘very naturally, too.’ He then told the Mayor that he should be a candidate for the Clerkship of the Peace, and as they walked down Regent-street the Mayor remarked to him, ‘If we can only keep the poor fellow alive till after the next election of Guardians, then we must all put our hands into our pockets and turn them (the Liberals) out.’ (Cries of ‘Shame,’ ‘Bribery,’ and general uproar.) The Mayor then said ‘I will propose that you shall be Clerk of the Peace and Isaac, Clerk of the Guardians.’ (Cheers and laughter.) His answer to that generous proposition was, ‘I shall not stand that; I shall expect the better berth of the two.’ (Renewed laughter, and cries of ‘Go in Harmer.’) The Mayor said ‘Well, after all, perhaps Isaac would rather have the Clerkship of the Peace, as there is not much to do, and as he is going to be married, and will be very well off, he won’t want it.’ (Loud laughter.)

Here the confusion became so great that nothing could be heard, and as by this time the majority of the Councillors had dispersed, the proceedings closed amid wild uproar.

Feb. 24th.—Mr. Henry E. Buxton had been elected Commodore and Mr. I. Preston, jun., Vice-Commodore of the Norfolk and Suffolk Yacht Club. Mr. T. M. Read was building a new yacht at Beccles.

Feb. 28th.—Mr. I. Preston, jun., the newly-elected Clerk of the Peace, had entertained the Recorder and Bar at the Sessions.

In the Market Ward, Mr. R. Dumbleton and Mr. J. Garratt had been candidates for the seat vacated by Mr. Preston, when the former gentleman was elected by a majority of 191.

April 6th.—Mr. C. S. D. Steward and Captain Gilbertson had been re-appointed Churchwardens, and Messrs. Ellis, Skoulding, Lay and Pestell, Overseers.

April 3rd.—Nathaniel Palmer, Esq., Recorder, had died at Coltishall, aged 79; it was stated that “The deceased was at one period of his career a prominent member of the Whig party, and was generally known as ‘Orator Palmer.’ He acted with the other members of the Palmer family and their cousins—the Stewards and Hurrys—and was with them instrumental in opening the borough of Great Yarmouth in 1818.”

The following officers were then with the E.N.M. at its annual training:—Colonel Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., Lieutenant-Colonel Glover, Major Matthew, Captains Dods, Ensor, Applewaite, Ambrose, and McEnry, and Lieutenants Haly, Howes, Long, Lacon, Haggard, Fryer, Barber and Napier. Captain Lacon being absent.

April 13th.—The following had been the result of the Guardians’ Election.—

North Ward.

Stafford (C.) 1,163

Neave (L.) 861

Skoulding (C.) 758

Buston(C) 664

Blyth (L.) 562

Rant (L.) 365

Market Ward.

Norman (L.) 679

Dumbleton (C.) 675

Laws (C.) 599

Overend (L.) 524

Ellis (C.) 515

Brand (L.) 472

Regent Ward.

Barber (C.) 540

Norman (L.) 486

Diver (C.) 428

Preston (C.) 426

Bryant (L.) 337

Rant (L.) 299

St. George’s Ward.

de Caux (L.) 613

Scott (L.) 522

Rivett (L.) 400

Foreman (C.) 266

Bunn (C.) 250

Todd (I.) 214

Gooch (C.) 204

Nelson Ward.

Palmer (L.) 1,166

Woodger (L.) 1,090

Clowes (L.) 921

Fisher (L.) 770

Woolverton (C) and Bracey (C) (numbers not given.)

The result was that 10 Liberals to 4 Tories had been elected.

The Town Council had recommended Mr. Mills for the office of Recorder, he having acted for several years as the late Mr. Palmer’s deputy in that office.

April 24th.—The first week in June had been fixed for the Prince of Wales’ visit to the town.

Mr. Frederick Palmer had been re-appointed chairman, and Messrs. J. A. Norman and J. F. Neave, vice-chairmen of the Board of Guardians.

Mr. Simms Reeve had been appointed Recorder in the place of Mr. Palmer deceased; it was stated that he was called to the Bar in 1850 and was a member of the Norfolk Circuit.

May 8th.—Funds were being raised for the purpose of decorating the town on the occasion of the Prince of Wales’ visit.

May 11th.—The Town Council had formed itself into a committee to consider the public steps to be taken with regard to that event.

May 25th.—Simms Reeve, Esq., had been appointed Judge of the Borough Court of Record.

May 29th.—Mr. de Caux had met with an accident through falling from a cart on the Drive.

June 1st.—James Scott, Esq., J.P., and one of the Councillors for the St. George’s Ward, had died.

June 8th.—Records the first visit of H.R.H. the Prince of Wales to the town, when he lodged at Mr. Cuddon’s house (Shaddingfield Lodge). The town was very handsomely decorated, and His Royal Highness was received at the Southtown Railway Station by the Reception Committee which consisted of Lord Sondes, the Mayor, the Recorder, the Town Clerk, and Messrs. William Mabson, W. T. Attwood, R. D. Barber, F. Dendy, H. R. Harmer, Frederick Ferrier, E. H. H. Combe, F. Danby-Palmer, E. P. Youell, S. Nightingale, R. S. Watling, and Bessey. After the Recorder had presented the Corporate address, His Royal Highness and the Committee proceeded to the Town Hall, where 200 guests were entertained. Subsequently His Royal Highness proceeded to the Grammar School and opened the newly-erected hall there. In the evening the town was illuminated.

June 15th.—Mr. S. K. Smith had been elected a Councillor for St. George’s Ward in the place of Mr. J. Scott deceased.

June 19th.—“Notes and Queries” contained a notice of Palmer’s “Perlustration of Great Yarmouth,” 400 pages of which had then been issued from the press.

A man named Howes had been killed through the bursting of a rocket at the Coastguard Station during the Prince’s visit.

June 22nd records the funeral of the late Mr. Edward Fyson, a member of the Town Council and Captain in the Rifle Volunteers.

The Rev. J. J. Raven had had the degree of D.D. conferred upon him by the University of Cambridge.

June 26th.—Mr. Simms Reeve had sat as Recorder for the first time at the Quarter Sessions.

The Town was filling rapidly with visitors.

June 29th.—The polling in the Market Ward had resulted as follows:—

Mr. John Garratt (L) 418

Mr. Tyrrell (C) 168

Majority 250

The marriage of Miss Watling (only daughter of Robert S. Watling, Esq.) and Mr. Samuel Nightingale (nephew of Samuel Nightingale, Esq.) had been celebrated “amid great rejoicing.”

July 6th.—The late Mr. E. Fyson had left legacies of £250 each to the Sailors’ Home and the Hospital.

The new organ at St. Mary’s, Southtown, was estimated to cost £250.

Mural paintings had been discovered in Gorleston Church.

July 13th.—A ghost was reported to be frequenting the Churchyard; upwards of 1,000 persons attended at one time to see it.

July 20th.—It was stated that in the year 1871, 19,781 lasts of fish, weighing 39,562 tons, had been conveyed by rail from Yarmouth.

Coal had advanced to 32s. per ton.

Mr. Palmer had returned from his cruise along the Dutch coast in the yacht “Oasis.”

July 31st.—The men at Lacon’s Brewery had struck for and obtained an advance of 3s. a week in their wages.

Aug. 10th.—The observance of the Bank Holiday Act had resulted in an “enormous influx” of excursionists.

Aug. 17th.—Messrs. Fellows, Dendy, and Spelman had been appointed Borough Justices.

The following had been the result of the polling for a Guardian to supply the place of the late Mr. Scott in St. George’s Ward:—

Mr. T. Green (L) 401

Mr. S. K. Smith (C) 281

Mr. T. C. Foreman (N) 126

Aug. 21st.—The Mayor (E. H. L. Preston, Esq.,) had died in the 66th year of his age.

Aug. 31st.—Mr. C. Woolverton had, on the motion of Mr. Worship, seconded by Mr. Bunn, been elected Mayor for the residue of the year of office in the place of the late Mr. Preston deceased.

Aug. 31st.—The Channel Fleet—consisting of the “Achilles,” flagship of Rear-Admiral Randolph, C.B., (Captain Hamilton), 6,121 tons, 1,250 horse power, 26 guns; “Hector,” (Captain Cochran), 4,019 tons, 800 horse power, 18 guns; “Penelope,” (Captain Wake), 3,096 tons, 600 horse power, 11 guns; “Audacious,” (Captain Hope), 3,774 tons, 800 horse power, 14 guns; “Vanguard,” (Captain Spain), 3,774 tons, 800 horse power, 14 guns; “Black Prince,” (Captain Lacey), 6,109 tons, 1,125 horse power, 28 guns; “Resistance” (Captain Montgomery), 3,710 tons, 600 horse power, 16 guns; “Favorite,” (Captain Ross), 2,094 tons, 400 horse power, 10 guns—had arrived in the Roads. The Artillery Volunteers fired a salute of 13 guns from the South Battery in honour of the Fleet, and the Mayor, accompanied by Messrs. J. E. Barnby, W. Mabson, H. Teasdel, T. W. Attwood, C. Diver, R. Dumbleton, T. Todd, Major Orde, F. Danby-Palmer, F. Ferrier, Admiral Smyth, C. E. Nuthall, J. Tomlinson, J. Bracey, W. Laws, H. Hammond, Geo. Watson, and E. H. H. Combe, had visited the flagship.

Sept. 4th.—Records the departure of the Fleet.

Sept. 11th.—The first Election under the Ballot Act had been held. This took place in the North Ward, upon the decease of the Mayor, and resulted in the return of the Conservative candidate, the numbers being for

Mr. Skoulding (C.) 434

Mr. H. Blyth (L.). 190

Thus, upon a register of some 1,300 voters, only 629 persons polled.

Sept. 14th.—Mr. Bunn had been elected a Haven Commissioner by the Council in the place of the late Mr. Preston.

Gas had been increased from 4s. to 5s. per 1000 feet “owing to the increased cost of coal and labour.”

Oct. 5th.—Mr. Leach’s oil and lamp shop and warehouse in the Market Place had been destroyed by fire. Mr. Leach’s stock alone thus burnt was valued at £1,000; the house belonging to Mrs. Ellis; both these items were, however, covered by insurance.

Oct. 12th.—The fish merchants were urging their grievances against the Railway Company.

Oct. 16th.—The first rail of the tramway on the Southtown Road had been laid and fixed by Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P.

In the evening a dinner had been given at the Town Hall in connection with the ceremony. Jas. Goodson, Esq., presided, and there were also present—the Mayor, the Recorder, the Mayor of Beccles, Captain Penrice, C.B., Mr. Garnham and Mr. Cotching (Directors of the Tramway Company) and Messrs. E. P. Youell, E. H. H. Combe, W. H. Chambers, R. H. Harmer, H. B. Rathbone, Browne, F. Danby-Palmer, J. Hudspith, Jewson, Fox, Underwood, Geard, Brooks, Harrison, G. Billington, Davidson, Cooke, J. H. Bly, Bales, Light, C. J. Palmer, H. Martin, H. Fenn, Dickson, Brown, junr., J. W. Cockrill, May, Filby, J. Thomas, Leathes, A. Nelson, H. Catton, Shipley, &c.

The town had been visited by a heavy gale from the S.W.

Oct. 26th.—Coal was reduced in price from 34s. to 27s. per ton.

Prices for herring had ruled from £7 to £13 for salted, and from £8 to £20 for fresh fish; 3,454 lasts had been landed.

Nov. 2nd.—Mr. J. Owles’ collection of china had been sold in 1,800 lots.

Nov. 6th.—The Municipal Election had resulted as follows:—

North Ward.

Nightingale, (C) 558

Skoulding, (C) 503

Livingston, (L) 240

Woodger, (L) 200

Foreman, (N) 18

Market Ward.

Barnby, (C) 258

Martins, (C) 216

Reeder, (L) 99

Lawn, (L) 53

Tyrrell, (C) 53

Regent Ward.

Burton, (L) 213

Blake, (L) 186

George, (C) 181

Wright, (C) 173

St. George’s Ward.

Foreman, (C) 276

de Caux, (L) 257

Wiltshire, (C) 241

Green, (L) 220

Nelson Ward.

Bracey, (C) 613

Veale, (C) 538

Palmer, (L) 375

Clowes, (L) 306

St. Andrew’s Ward.

Gooda, (C), and Attwood, (L), unopposed.

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. 10th.—Upon the motion of Mr. E. P. Youell, seconded by Mr J. T. Bracey, Mr. C. Woolverton had been elected Mayor of the Borough. The following were at that time the Ward Aldermen:—North, William Mabson; Market, W. Laws; Regent, William Danby-Palmer; St. George’s, G. S. Shingles; Nelson, H. R. Harmer; St. Andrews’, R. Purdy.

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.