CARNARVON TRADERS The Repository of all Things Historical for the Ancient Welsh Town of Carnarvon |  |
Home
Contents
What's New
News
List of Trades
Directories
Census
Miscellaneous
Biographies
Images
Parish Chest
Books
Caernarfon Ddoe/
Caernarfon's Yesterdays
Contact & Links
Copyright
THE NEWS ROOM
1895
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 11th. 1895.
CASTLE-SQUARE IMPROVEMENTS
Now that the Squire of Vaynol has with such liberality freely presented the town with one of the two ugly buildings disfiguring the beauty of the Square, and hiding from view a large part of the noble castle we are so justly proud of, there is very general consensus of opinion that the authorities should buy the second house, so as to open up an uninterrupted view of the famous Queen Eleanor's gate. It is to be hoped our council will at once move in the matter, and thus show an appreciation of the importance of improving the Square quite as keen at least as Mr. Assheton Smith has shown in presenting one house, by purchasing the other. The cost to the corporation will be infinitesimal.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 11th. 1895.
THE PROPOSED MUSEUM
The committee appointed by the town council to arrange with Sir John Puleston and Sir Llewelyn Turner as to the transfer of the valuable collection of historical and other exhibits now located at the Castle to the care of the town, with the object of forming a public museum, is proceeding with its work, and will soon, it is to be hoped, bring the same to a successful termination. The members met last Monday, and on Tuesday they visited the Castle, and were shown all the collection by Sir Llewelyn Turner, who displays in this matter, as in others, his wonted public spirit, and is very anxious to secure the safe custody of the valuables now in his keeping, so that the town and country at large may benefit thereby. The committee were very readily assisted by him, and they will meet again next Monday and draw out their report and recommendations for presentation to the next town council meeting.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 19th. 1895.
HAMILTON'S DIORAMA
Undoubtedly, one of the best entertainments of its kind ever seen in the town was that repeated by Hamilton's company at the Pavilion for five nights this week. Good audiences greeted the many items on the programme with applause which was well deserved. The cyclorama, on miles and tons of canvass, entitled, "Over the Seas," was duly admired by all, and the comic and sentimental songs and the jokes amused and pleased all present.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 25th. 1895.
DEMOLISHED
The corner house in Castle-square, which was so handsomely presented to the corporation by Mr. Assheton Smith, for the purpose of improving the Square and obtaining a better view of Queen Eleanor's Gate in the Castle, has this week been demolished. Both the Square and the view of the Castle would be materially improved if it was possible to have the second house also pulled down.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: January 25th. 1895.
COMPLAINTS
If our town councillors want to hear some growling and complaining they have only to walk along those streets of the town which are covered with macadam and keep their ears open. These stones have been down for weeks, to the great annoyance of the public, but undoubtedly to the interest of the shoemakers. Why should Carnarvon be without a roller? It would be well if the corporation were to take the matter into consideration.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 1st. 1895.
THE MUSEUM
We understand that the committee appointed by the town council to organise a museum are hard at work. Some interesting curiosities have been promised and contributed. Amongst them is a twopenny piece of 1797, sent by Councillor Jones-Hughes, Rhostryfan, through the chairman of the committee, Councillor J. R. Hughes.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 1st. 1895.
OUR POOR CHILDREN
Last year arrangements were made to give a free breakfast to the poor children who attend Twthill Board School. This year there is much more need of this salutory boon owing to the exceptionally inclement weather, making biting hunger doubly keen, while a large number of the bread winners are unable to do work, owing to the frost. Few people have the least conception how many children go about the streets bare-footed, and with nothing to wear except rags, while they go day by day with hardly a morsel of warm food. Last year, the appeal made to the charitable public for old clothes and shoes and subscriptions towards a free breakfast, not only had the effect of increasing the attendance at school, but the children came in cheerfully, and with beaming countenances in view of a substantial meal at least once within the 24 hours. An appeal is again made this year for the help of the charitable, and it is to be hoped that it will not be made in vain. Mr. J. H. Thomas, clerk of the school board, or either of the school teachers, will gladly receive any old articles of clothing and shoes or subscriptions towards the object mentioned.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 15th. 1895.
BANKRUPTCY
The summary of the statement of affairs has been issued in the case of Edward Jones, 60, South-pen'rallt, boot and shoe dealer, from which it appears that the insecured debts amount to £620 12s. 8d., against assets estimated by the bankrupt at £295 13s. 6d., leaving a deficiency of £324 19s. 2d. The alleged causes of failure are stated thus: "After the assignment in 1889, I had no capital. I had anticipated receiving £550 after my creditors had received 20s. in the pound. Trade fell off and my expenses were too heavy."
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: February 22nd. 1895.
RENT AUDIT
The half-yearly rent audit of the Vaynol estate was held on Saturday, at the Sportsman Hotel. Mr. Assheton Smith allowed tenants paying their own rates an abatement of 15 per cent. Captain Stewart, the estate manager, presided at the dinner.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 1st. 1895.
HOT POTS
On Sunday Mr. and Mrs. Morgan, of the Prince of Wales Hotel, distributed hot pots to about 300 poor families. This was the second Sunday for Mr. Morgan to do so. A large number of poor families, especially invalids of the deserving poor, have obtained free soup from the kindly and generously-disposed landlady and landlord of the Prince of Wales Hotel for many weeks past.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 1st. 1895.
THE UNEMPLOYED
At the commencement of the week a large number of workmen who were temporarily thrown out of employment owing to the frost and the severe weather, were able to resume their work. The outlook of the building industry is fairly good, while local contractors have been successful in obtaining important contracts elsewhere, which will provide work for their staffs for a long time.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 15th. 1895.
THE ANGLESEY FERRY
In the course of a conversation with the "Herald" reporter on Saturday, the guardians and district councillors of Llanidan expressed their thankfulness to Mr. Menzies, the chairman of the finance committee of the Harbour Trust, for his assurance given at the last meeting of that body, that there would be no difficulty in finding the necessary money to provide a better landing place, etc., on the Carnarvonshire side for the steamer. Mr. Menzies, however, is not prepared to recommend the trust to carry out any scheme unless the town council be ready to buy a new steamer and provide a suitable landing place, etc., on the Anglesey side. To have the one without the other would, in his opinion, be simply throwing money away.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 22nd. 1895.
FAILURE OF A BUTCHER
Thomas Williams, butcher, 73, Pool-street, has filed his petition. The liabilities amount to £108 18s. 6d., and the assets to £10 10s., leaving a deficiency of £98 8s. 6d. The debtor attributes his failure to "bad trade and pressure of creditors." The Official Receiver states that the bankrupt commenced business about three and a half years ago, and previous to that he carried on a farm called Bontnewydd. He appeared to have known for three years or more that he was insolvent, and stated that he had since then only contracted small debts, hoping that his business would improve and he would be able to pay them. He had drawn from his business about £52 per annum for household and personal expenses. There are 28 unsecured creditors, and with the exception of one none of the debts exceed £10.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 22nd. 1895.
INTERESTING TO GROCERS AND CHEMISTS
At the Carnarvon County Court, on Wednesday, before his Honour Sir Horatio Lloyd, an action was heard in which the Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain appeared as plaintiffs, and Messrs. Evans and Lake, wholesale grocers, Carnarvon, as defendants. - Mr. Roland E. Vaughan Williams (instructed by Messrs. Flux, Thompson, and Flux) represented the plaintiffs, and Mr. J. T. Roberts for the defendants. - The action was brought to recover £5, being the amount of penalty alleged to have been incurred by the defendants on the 2nd. of January, 1895, by selling or keeping open shop for the retailing, dispensing, or compounding of poison, to wit strychnine, contained in and forming part of the ingredients in a compound called "Fellows' Syrup of Hypophosphites," or a preparation of strychnine, contrary to the provision of the Pharmacy Act, 1860 (31 and 32 Vict. cap. 121).
Mr. Roland E. Vaughan Williams said that the action was brought to recover a penalty for selling a poison, the sellers not being registered chemists. On the 2nd. of January last Mr. T. J. Hughes, chemist, Bethesda, went to the shop of Messrs. Evans and Lake, and bought a bottle of Fellows' Syrup of Hypophosphites.
His Honour: I suppose it cures everything (laughter).
Counsel: Well, I suppose so (laughter). Proceeding, he said that the syrup contains strychnine. According to the Pharmacy Act of 1868, it was provided that any person, not being a duly qualified chemist, selling or retailing poison would be liable to a penalty of £5. Mr. Hughes having bought the syrup on the 2nd. of January, took it with him to Bethesda, and placed it under lock and key. He afterwards wrote to the society informing them of the sale. There was sufficient poison in the syrup to bring the sale within the Act, a dangerous quantity of strychnine being contained in one of the bottles.
Mr. T. J. Hughes, chemist, Bethesda, said that he bought the bottle at Messrs. Evans and Lake's on the 2nd. of January. He also bought a pennyworth of sweets.
His Honour: To take after it (laughter).
Witness, proceeding, said that he paid 3s. 1d. for the bottle, and took it with him to Bethesda. He afterwards communicated with the society, and on the 27th. of February, Mr. Moon, clerk to the registrar, came down.
Cross-examined, witness said that he sold the syrup, and he would sell a bottle to anyone who might ask for it. It was recommended as a very good preparation. His price was 3s. 6d. a bottle, although it was supposed to be sold for 4s. Messrs. Evans and Lake had recently opened a shop at Bangor, but this had not affected his trade at all.
Mr. H. Moon, clerk to the registrar of the Pharmaceutical Society, said that on the 4th. of January, he received a letter from the last witness, and on the 27th. of February he proceeded to Bethesda, where he received the bottle in question. Witness took it to London and handed the same to Mr. Eases, the analyst. The bottle (produced) was the one submitted to the analyst. He opened the bottle in the presence of Mr. Eases. The bottle had been fastened at both ends.
Cross-examined: Thomas John Hughes had not been instructed by the Pharmaceutical Society to visit the defendants' premises.
Mr. Eases, analyst, said that he had considerable experience in analysing and demonstrating in chemistry. He received the bottle in question, and had analysed the contents. It contained strychnine in the proportion of an eighth of a grain to the ounce, or nearly a grain in the whole bottle.
The register of the qualified chemists of Great Britain having been put in, the case for the plaintiff closed.
Mr. J. T. Roberts pressed upon the plaintiffs to say upon which offence they proceeded, whether it was "a sale" or "keeping an open shop."
His Honour observed that it was practically the same.
Mr. J. T. Roberts said that in common fairness he ought to know what he had really to answer. Any way, it did not much matter. He argued that it was clear that under Section 15 of the Act no one could be prosecuted against except the person who had actually committed the offence, the actual seller. That being so, there was no evidence whatever against Messrs. Evans and Lake, because it was alleged that the bottle had been sold by an assistant.
Mr. Williams submitted that the assistant was liable as well as the person who employed him.
His Honour: Of course, every seller is responsible, but the master cannot slip out of it because the man whom he employed had committed the actual act.
Mr. Roberts proceeded to state that a correspondence had passed between the plaintiffs and the defendants, in which the latter asked for the name of the buyer, and the date, so as to enable them to trace out the person who had sold the bottle, if any had been sold. If they had found that out the penalty would have been paid. When his clients found that it was contrary to the Act to sell the syrup mentioned, they gave orders that no more was to be sold, and the remainder in stock was withdrawn altogether.
William Garner, the assistant who, it was alleged, had sold the bottle in question, denied having sold a bottle of Fellows' Syrup in his life.
William Hughes said the he was the assistant on the patent medicine side of the shop. Witness did not sell a bottle of the syrup within the last six months. Messrs. Evans and Lake had given instructions that no bottles were to be sold. Consequently they were withdrawn from the fixtures.
Mr. Lake, the junior partner in the firm of Messrs. Evans and Lake, said that they used to sell a large quantity of the syrup in question, and that at a 1s. a bottle less than chemists. When they found that it was an article that they were forbidden to sell, they withdrew it from the stock, and orders were given not to sell any more. Many other articles were withdrawn at the same time. Not a bottle had been sold this year. If he had ascertained that a bottle had been sold he would have paid the penalty.
His Honour deferred judgment.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: March 29th. 1895.
NEW TREES
Some time ago, Councillor Owen Jones, Green Bank, obtained the sanction of the council to plant trees in Castle-square. Two, however, succumbed to the bad soil and the severe weather. But this week two new ones have been substituted.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: April 5th. 1895.
THE WELSH COAST STEAMBOAT SERVICE
Mr. T. Bugbird, ex-Mayor of this town, has initiated a movement for the purpose of establishing a steamboat service to connect present service from Liverpool to Bangor with Carnarvon.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 10th. 1895.
LONG SERVICE MEDAL
We observe the name of Corporal William Owen, Pool-street, among those who received the long service medal at Portmadoc on Saturday.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 10th. 1895.
Carnarvon has a magnificent talking machine, which grinds out its usual three or four hours' performance every month. Whenever a member of the town council has a brilliant idea, and in the enthusiasm of the moment wants it to be carried out without the usual delay so characteristic of Carnarvon, it appears to dazzle the other members, and in consequence the brilliant idea is handed over to a committee with a view of getting them to take the polish off it or else hide it away for a generation or two. Numberless instances of this could be mentioned, but the latest is the excellent proposal of Councillor W. J. Williams to make some better use of Twthill than keep it as the dumping ground for town refuse. Visitors have times out of number expressed surprise that Carnarvon allows such a beauty spot to be so neglected, and as Councillor E. Hughes remarked, if many a town had a hill like Twthill they would make it one of their chief attractions. There is the hill, from the top of which one of the finest views in Wales can be had, but there is no approach worthy the name to it. When Councillor Williams asked the council to make one, the usual routine was resorted to - "Where's the money to come from;" "tighten your purse-strings, here is a new idea!" And the new idea was handed over to a committee which probably will grind away at it until nothing is left of it. If the Carnarvon Council had had the building of the ark in hand, the deluge would have found them still discussing in committee the best place wherein to lay the keel. By the bye, the public perhaps will be anxious to know what a "sub-managing assistant" is. Can it be some fossil kept in the Castle museum; or perhaps is a mummy discovered in the foundations of old Segontium. Who will enlighten the public on the matter?
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 17th. 1895.
THE RECRUITS
The recruits of the 4th. Battalion, Royal Welsh Fusiliers (Carnarvonshire and Merionethshire Militia), who have been in training for the past month, left for Dolgelley on Tuesday to undergo a four or five days' course of musketry. This year's encampment will be at Carnarvon.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 24th. 1895.
IMPROVEMENTS
The alterations which are being carried out at the bottom of Twthill-lane, and the widening of the carriage road before the Royal Hotel materially improve the entrance to the town, and it is to be hoped that at some future day the corporation will be enterprising enough to widen Bangor-street, especially from the Priory beyond Pendref Chapel, which is very narrow, and a great drawback to the appearance of the street and convenience of traffic.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 24th. 1895.
ROBBERY
The George Inn, which was one of the hotels broken into some months ago, and for which crime the culprits were sentenced to various terms of imprisonment at the Carnarvonshire Assizes, was again, on Saturday night, the scene of a similar robbery. It appears that between eight and ten o'clock some person or persons made their way up to one of the upper rooms, and therefrom abstracted a quantity of jewellery belonging to Mr. and Mrs. Davies. This being the busiest period of the evening in the house the guilty persons had ample time to make good their escape unobserved, and it was close upon eleven o'clock before the articles were found missing. As far as can be ascertained no suspicious characters were seen about the house. Information was at once given to the police, and Sergeant Griffiths took the matter in hand. On Sunday morning inquiries were made at the hotels and temperance houses with a view of ascertaining whether similar robberies had been perpetrated in them, but it was found that this was the only case detected. Notwithstanding the activity of the police no arrest has yet been made nor even a clue obtained.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: May 31st. 1895.
FATAL ACCIDENT
About five o'clock on Thursday afternoon, David Owen Williams, the child of Hugh Williams, 29, Chapel-street, met with an accident which proved fatal on Friday night. From the evidence given at the inquest, which was held before Mr. Bodvel-Roberts on Monday, it appeared that the child was, about five o'clock on the afternoon of the day in question, playing in the lobby. At that time his eldest brother was pouring out a cup of hot tea in the kitchen. While the latter was placing the teapot back, the deceased came in, and with his little hands reached to the table, got hold of a saucer which he pulled down, and thereby caused the hot tea to run over him, scalding him on the right side of the face, the chest, and arm. Dr. Edward Williams was immediately summoned to his aid, but the child died of convulsions as stated. - The jury, of whom Mr. Thomas Hughes was the foreman, returned a verdict of "Accidental death."
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 14th. 1895.
THE MUSEUM
The committee recently appointed by the town council are working diligently with the formation of a museum at the Institute. Mr. H. O. Forbes, Ll.D., F.R.G.S., has examined carefully the collection at the Castle, and his report has given every satisfaction to the committee. Some time must elapse before the Castle collection can be moved to the new habitation.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 14th. 1895.
THE BUILDING TRADE
Upon entering a surveyor's office, this week, our reporter noticed three men hard at work in completing plans of houses which are to be immediately erected in the town. Two of the houses will be built in the neighbourhood of the Cliff. The work of pulling down the Mona and erecting a substantial building for the purpose of an hotel will also be proceeded with forthwith, the tenders having already been received. Besides the building that is now going on, plans of houses, in addition to those referred to above, will also be ready ere long.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 14th. 1895.
ANOTHER DISCOVERY
While certain excavations were, on Friday, in course at the back of Eldon Cottage, until recently the residence of Caradoc Rowland, and of his father before him for many years, a number of workmen came across what is supposed by some persons to be a Roman well. Upon removing a stone slab which lay on the surface of a cavity a good sized shaft was found. It is oval in shape, and measures seven feet by six. At a depth of 18 inches from the top it is sunk in solid rock to a depth of nearly 13 feet, and contains at present five feet of clear spring water. It is stated that the well was used 60 years ago. Whether it is a Roman well or not, it is close to if not actually upon the site of the old Segontium.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 21st. 1895.
THE DIPHTHERIA SCARE
Upon inquiries, our correspondent finds that as yet only four cases of diphtheria have proved fatal. There is not the slightest foundation for the rumour that an epidemic is raging, and that the infant department of the national schools has been closed in consequence. The fact is that there is a defective drain at the back of the infant school in question, which is now in course of being remedied. It is for this purpose, as well as to execute certain other structural alterations in accordance with the new code that it has been considered advisable to close the school for about a fortnight. The boys' and girls' departments are in full swing. Precautionary measures are taken to disinfect all the schools in the town daily.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: June 21st. 1895.
ACTION AGAINST CARNARVON ENGINEERS
Gaze v. De Winton and Co. - Ernest Henry Gaze, patentee, London, brought an action for damages for breach of agreement against De Winton and Co., Ld., engineers, ironfounders, and locomotive builders at Carnarvon. - Mr. Griffiths Jones represented the plaintiff, and Mr. E. H. Lloyd the defendants, the case being heard without a jury. - The plaintiff is a patentee for improvements in gas engines, and he claimed damages for a substantial breach of an agreement by the defendants by which they undertook to manufacture one engine for him. They finally refused, thereby entitling him to damages. His Lordship, after hearing evidence at some length, said the plaintiff also put his case on another ground. The agreement contained a clause by which it was provided that either of the parties should have power to terminate this agreement by giving notice but that such notice should "observe the equities." The plaintiff said the notice given by the defendants was a notice that did not observe the equities between the parties, and that he was entitled to have the equities ascertained, and that he should have the benefit of them. The agreement which was the basis of the whole matter was a very extraordinary one, and that perhaps was accounted for by the fact that it was drawn up by the plaintiff himself, who, although an expert in gas engines, did not appear to be an expert in conveyancing, and therefore, as was to be expected, he had made an agreement exceedingly difficult to construe. Some three weeks after the agreement had been made, during which time the plaintiff had furnished drawings to defendants, who had found considerable difficulty in understanding the drawings or acting upon them, they made up their minds that they had seen enough to warrant them to come to the conclusion that they could not make any profit out of the agreement; therefore they gave notice that they would not go on with it. It seemed by the agreement that they were entitled to do that if they chose. At the same time, he (the judge) was anxious to see whether there was anything in the nature of an unfair determination of an agreement, whether the defendants had tried to get an advantage out of plaintiff by making him discolse his plans. The plaintiff had certainly given no evidence of anything of the kind, and the correspondence produced disclosed an honest attempt on the part of the defendants to learn from the plaintiff what he really meant. He did not understand what was meant by "the equities." The word "equity," used by persons who did not know either law or equity, was very often simply a roundabout way of saying that whatever was fair should be done. He did not know that equity always was fair, but it was enough for him to say that this provision was too vague to enable him to form a judgment as to what was meant. There was nothing which the plaintiff ought to have had and which he had not got. - Judgment was given for the defendants, with costs, and the plaintiff was directed to give security to the extent of £50 for the costs.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: July 5th. 1895.
Bradley's grand opening day, Friday 5th. July. Clothing and Outfitting. Turf-square (late Gwalia), Carnarvon.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 9th. 1895.
The Mayor (Mr. J. R. Pritchard) is at present enjoying a well deserved holiday at Llandrindod.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 9th. 1895.
THE BOARD SCHOOLS
These schools were reopened on Tuesday, after the usual month's holiday, and we learn that the attendance during the week, although not very satisfactory, was as good as could be expected for this time of year.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 16th. 1895.
THE ANGLESEY FERRY
On Saturday the ferry committee of the town council decided to recommend Captain Lewis, Newborough, Anglesey, as the new lessee. Captain Lewis is willing to provide a steamer according to the specifications drawn out, and equipped with the most modern requirements.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 16th. 1895.
THE SLATE TRADE
Great activity prevails in the slate trade, and such is the demand that the quarry proprietors are quite unable to cope with the orders. At Carnarvon, in particular, great complaints are made by the owners of vessels that they have to wait a long time for the completion of their cargoes.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 16th. 1895.
A LOCAL BUTCHER FINED
At the Salford Police Court, on Tuesday, David Evans, butcher, was fined £5 and costs, or a month's imprisonment for attempting to sell a diseased cow, which was unfit for human food. According to the evidence of the veterinary surgeon, the animal was affected with dropsy. The magistrates gave an order to bury the carcase.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 16th. 1895.
VISITORS
This season is by far the best, as far as visitors are concerned, that the town has seen for many years. The steamships "Snowdon" and "The Menai" visit the town daily with visitors, who are anxious to see the beauty of the Menai Straits, and view the ancient Castle.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 16th. 1895.
A DARING ROBBERY
On Wednesday evening, what is considered a most daring robbery was perpetrated at the establishment of Mr. David Parry, watchmaker. It would appear that someone walked into the shop, opened the slide of the window case, and took away a wedding ring stand, on which there were also keeper rings, estimated to the value of from £100 to £130. It is evident that the guilty individual must have watched the shop closely, and taking advantage of the absence of Mr. Parry, probably committed the deed while the assistant was in an upper room. However it was done, it was not found out until nine o'clock the followng morning. A close examination of the premises revealed the fact that no one had broken in, but, rather, must have deliberately walked to the shop as stated. The police are investigating the matter.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 23rd. 1895.
A COMPLIMENT TO OUR LOCAL INDUSTRIES
The enterprising firm of Messrs. Hugh Jones and Co., Marble Works, have been entrusted with the contract to supply slabs and all manufactured slate for all buildings under the control of the War Office at home and abroad. The contract is for three years, and in notifying the same the authorities acknowledged the complete satisfaction which the same firm had given during nine years in which they had carried out a similar contract before.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: August 23rd. 1895.
TERRIBLE FATAL ACCIDENT AT CARNARVON
For several months past there have been in course of erection on the edge of what is called the New Dock, under the railway station, Carnarvon, large premises as mills for Messrs. Pritchard and Co., Peblig Mills. The external building had all but been completed by Mr. David Williams, the contractor, and the great work of putting the machnery inside is at an end. Amongst those concerned in the superintendence of the machinery, was Mr. Henry Thomas, Dinorwic-street (uncle of Mr. Pritchard), himself a mechanic of considerable experience. On Thursday evening, news spread rapidly throughout the town that Mr. Thomas had met with a fearful accident at the place, and this was later on confirmed by the positive announcement that he was dead, a fact at which the inhabitants were much shocked. The exact particulars have not been obtained, but it is too true that the unfortunate gentleman had his right thigh almost severed below the groin. It seems that no one witnessed what really took place, although there were several persons about, but it is conjectured that he must have been caught by a strap and drawn between some cogwheels. Several doctors arrived on the scene, one of whom, Dr. John Williams, severed the few ligaments left, but the life of the poor man could not be saved, as he very rapidly bled to death. No doubt further particulars will be ascertained at the inquest, which could not be held on Friday, the Inspector of Factories having to be communicated with.
Mr. Henry Thomas, who was about 55 years of age, was a native of Carnarvon, having been born and bred in the cottages at the Peblig Mill side of the present park. His father died when he was very young, but his widowed mother, now over 80, survives. He was a near relative of the late Mr. Owen Thomas, the originator of the present firm of Messrs. De Winton and Co., and the deceased joined him in early life as a blacksmith. He continued in the same firm until a few months ago, when, after a service of nearly 40 years, he went to superintend the works which have proved fatal to him. He was not married. Never was a more unobtrusive though intelligent man. Never did the Church of England lose a more faithful and zealous adherent. He was about the most regular attendant in the Parish Church of Llanbeblig, and was almost always a sidesman there.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: September 6th. 1895.
A CURIOUS FIND
On Wednesday, the corporation workmen, whilst making excavations in Love-lane, in connection with the Henwalia drainage scheme, came across a carved stone head in a good state of preservation, even the colour used on the cheeks appearing quite fresh. This latter fact, perhaps, militates against the idea that the stone is a Roman relic.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: September 27th. 1895.
DEMOLITION OF A "TOWN HOUSE" AT CARNARVON
This week, the work of pulling down the ancient building called the "Mona," which was one of the landmarks of the town, has been commenced. The old building has been acquired by the firm of Messrs. Greenhall and Whitley, the owners of the Bulkeley Arms, with a view of extending the latter premises and erecting in High-street a hotel in the most modern style. Mr. Rowland Lloyd Jones, Market-street, is the architect, and Mr. Richard Jones, Llanwnda, the contractor. The house in question was at one time the town residence during the winter months of some of the old county families, and has a most interesting history. As for the house itself it was soundly built, and it is not an easy matter to demolish the old walls. Inside were many figure paintings and landscape scenes on wood panels, which if put on the market would probably realise good prices. The ceiling above the old bay window was also beautifully painted with figure subjects. After Mona has been pulled down, there will remain only two or three of the old town residences. The house referred to is on the corner High-street and Shirehall-street, and next to the Bulkeley Arms, and very probably, at one time, formed part of the latter. For nearly 40 years and up to about 1818, it was the residence of Mrs. Maurice Owen, of Ty Gwyn and Hafod Dywyll, near Dolgelley, her husband having pre-deceased her some 20 years. Maurice Owen was of the ancient stock of Baron Owen, the vice-chancellor of North Wales, who was killed in the woods on his return home to Dolgelley from the Carnarvon Assizes in the year 1555, he being a direct male descendant of Simon Owen, the sixth son of the Baron. After the death in 1803 of the Rev. William Owen, M.A., of Brazenose College, Oxford, Mrs. Owen's only brother, she was left the sole heiress of the property of her father, John Owen, of Castellmai, Carnarvon, and Plas yn Ngheidio, Lleyn, who was high-sheriff of this county in 1740, and who, also, was lineally descended in the male line from Bleddyn ap Cynfryn, Prince of Powys, who reigned circa 1040. At Mrs. Maurice Owen's death, her husband's property went to his other relations, whereas her father's property went in the same way to his. Taking advantage of the present restoration of Llanbeblig Church, Mr. John Owen, of Ty Coch, is now renewing their gravestone just outside the east window, and placing a tablet in the church to their memory. From an antiquarian point of view, it is a pity to see these old houses demolished. As mentioned by the Rev. Peter Bailey Williams, in a book published by him in 1821, "So late as fifty or sixty years ago, and for a long time prior to that period, several of the principal families of this and the neighbouring county, had a town house at Carnarvon, where they generally used to spend the winter, and others resided here constantly, most of these were persons possessed of good incomes, and many of them kept their own carriages, had always a good table, and lived in the good old hospitable style of their ancestors, so that when a gentleman happened to come into the town, if he had any acquaintance with some of these families, he generally went to his friend's house, and not to an inn."
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: October 4th. 1895.
STUNG IN HER TONGUE
A few days ago, Mrs. Dorkins, South-pen'rallt, was making jam. As she was tasting it, as people generally do, she was stung in her tongue by a wasp, which, no doubt, alighted upon her spoon while she was in the act of putting it into her mouth. Mrs. Dorkins's tongue was very much swollen, and she suffered great pain in consequence, which necessitated medical treatment.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: October 11th. 1895.
STRANGE DISAPPEARANCE OF A CASHBOX
On Monday night, the cashbox of Mr. Williams, landlord of the Trumpet Inn, containing about £14 10s. in gold and silver, and a gold ring, disappeared in a most extraordinary manner. The police were immediately communicated with. On Wednesday night, David Williams, in the employ of Messrs. J. Thomas and Son, auctioneers, and who at the time was in the company of Miss Thomas, picked up the cashbox, which had been wrapped in brown paper, on Castle-ditch. It contained £5 in gold and the ring referred to. The police are very reticent about the affair.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: November 1st. 1895.
THE COMING WINTER
This coming winter, if the weather which we have experienced of late is any indication, promises to be a most severe one. In that case, we would call the attention of the charitable public to the great need of making preparations for the deserving poor, more especially so, the little urchins, who, through no fault of their own, have to go along our streets barefooted. The free breakfasts given in previous years at the Twthill School and elsewhere proved a boon and a blessing, and taught more practical religion to the little waifs than anything else could possibly do under the circumstances. It is to be hoped that a similar movement will be initiated again this year.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: November 8th. 1895.
A CLAIM FOR COMPENSATION
A Liverpool gentleman has sent in a claim to the corporation for a compensation of £20 for falling over the coping-stone in the open space in Castle-square close to Dr. Williams's surgery.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: November 8th. 1895.
AN EXTENSION OF BUSINESS
Owing to the great increase in their business, and the demand for Japanese, bamboo, and all kinds of fancy articles, Messrs. Pierce and Williams have added another department to their business at the Golden Goat. The base of the building has been transformed into a bazaar, to which a staircase leads from the shop. When thoroughly fitted up, it will resemble an Oriental bazaar, with its usual accompaniments. This department will be opened on Saturday.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: November 15th. 1895.
Ornamental railings have at last been placed on the curbing stones close to the assistant overseer's office in Castle-square. Whether they are high enough to avoid another bill of £20 for compensation to the corporation is quite another matter.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: November 29th. 1895.
At a meeting of the museum committee, held at the Institute on Friday morning, the report of Dr. Forbes, entertaining recommendations as to the proposed museum, and his recommendations as to the fitting up of the same, were submitted. It was stated that the fitting of the room would cost between £250 and £300, and it was suggested that the sum might be raised by way of loan. The corporation had already expressed their willingness to allow the committee to have the rent of one of the Institute shops, and the sum would be considered sufficient to pay for the maintainance of the museum. It had been ascertained that £300 might be borrowed upon the security of the library rate, and that the total annual instalment of loan and interest would be £16. After some discussion, it was decided to ask the corporation to fit up and furnish the room.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: December 6th. 1895.
AN ARTISTIC SIGN
For some days, there has been exhibited in the window of the London House a most artistic sign, prepared by Mr. Richard Morgan, painter, for the Newborough Arms, Bontnewydd. It bears the crest of the Newborough family, which is delineated to perfection, while the different colours blend so naturally as to make it a work of art of no mean order.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: December 20th. 1895.
LARCENY
A special police court was held on Friday, before Dr. R. Parry and Dr. G. R. Griffith, when two girls named Catherine Jane Thomas and Elizabeth Davies were charged with stealing two wedding rings from the stall of Aaron Harris, Liverpool, in the Market Hall, on the 7th. inst. - The defendants were dealt with under the First Offenders' Act, and bound over to come up for judgement if called upon.
From the Carnarvon & Denbigh Herald: December 20th. 1895.
ST. MARK'S HOME
A most successful "Pound Day" was held on Friday, nearly 500 lbs. were received. The secretary, on behalf of the committee, wishes to thank most sincerely all who kindly sent gifts, and made such a hearty response to the appeal.
 |
 |
||
 |
 |
||
 |
 |
||
C.D.H. 15th. November, 1895. © K. Morris |
C.D.H. 15th. November, 1895. © K. Morris |
