Newspaper Stories 1890 - 1899 - Hartley-Kent: The Website for Hartley

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Newspaper Stories 1890 - 1899


1890, February 4: Unmuzzled dogs Maidstone Journal
Dartford Magistrates: "A fine of 2s 6d and costs was imposed upon Thomas Martin of Hartley, for a similar offence. In this case the fine was reduced because the dog had a muzzle on, but a strap had slipped and the muzzle was not properly fastened."


1890, February 22: Land for Sale at Station Road, Longfield Gravesend Reporter
"Freehold plot of building land, 59ft frontage to Station Road, about 100ft deep, close to railway, to be sold, price £90 or offer. Apply to Mr Toms, Railway Station, Fawkham"


1890, February 25: Hartley Manor, sale of Maidstone Journal
"By order of the Executors of the late Colonel Evelyn - Hartley Manor Kent


Mr Hodsoll is instructed to sell by auction, on the premises, as above, on Friday, March 7th, 1890 at 11.30 the whole of the genuine household furniture and effects, comprising the appointments of 10 bedrooms, an excellent carved oak sideboard, oak dining room suite, upholstered in Utrecht velvet, white and gold drawing room suite in satin, oak, mahogany, and rosewood, dining and other tables, a handsom 5ft 6in Buhl ebonised cabinet, chimney glasses, black marble and ormolu manel clocks, a few choice oil paintings and other pictures, ornaments, plate and plated articles, china and glass, culinary and dairy utensils, and numerous useful miscelleneous effects."


1890, March 1: House for Sale at Station Road, Longfield Gravesend Reporter
"Pleasing villa residence, containing 9 rooms, in Station Road, Fawkham (sic), close to railway, to be let or sold; in perfect repair, garden back and front; rent £18; price freehold £200. Apply to Mr Toms, Railway Station, Fawkham."


1890, March 1: Position Wanted Bromley Times
"Under housemaid for girl (15); waits well, good needlewoman, Dartford preferred - Apply Taylor, Hartley Green, near Dartford."


1890, March 4: Sale of Hartley Manor Maidstone Journal
"At the London Auction Mart, on Wednesday, Messrs Beal, Son and Chartres, sold by auction the freehold residential estate, called 'Hartley Manor' situate near Fawkham and Gravesend. On the estate is a moderate sized family mansion, approached by a carriage drive, with good stabling and attractive grounds; also a smaller residence known as 'Hartley Court' 14 cottages and a captial farm house and buildings. The entire extent of the property is nearly 600 acres of arable, paster and woodlands in a ring fence. There was a good attendance, but the bidding was not very spirited; starting at £8,000 offers gradually rose to £10,000 when the hammer fell. About this time last year the auctioneers made an offer on behalf of a client of £15,000 to the owner of this estate, which he refused to accept."


1890, March 8: Hartley Manor, sale of stock Maidstone Journal
"By order of the executors of the late Colonel Evelyn - Hartley Manor and Hartley Court Farms, about 1½ miles from Fawkham Station on the LC&D Railway. Mr Hodsoll is instructed to sell by auction at Hartley Court on Wednesday March 19th, 1890 at 12 for 1 o'clock, all the valuable live and dead farming stock, comprising 13 powerful and active draught horses, 2 years old cart colt, a ditto nag ditto, bay gelding, quiet to ride and drive, bay pony, young roan cow in full profit, 2 goats with 2 kids, black sow with 7 pigs, white ditto with 9 ditto, a ditto with 10 ditto, black boar and 3 store pigs. The agricultural implements include 2 waggons, spring van, 9 dung carts, liquid manure cart, plough, harros, drills, land rollers, mowing and reaping machines etc, a large iron cistern 10ft by 4ft by 2½ft. Also clamp of mangold wurtzel about 50 tons, ditto of Regent and Hebron Potatoes about 12 tons, and a quantity of cut underwood. Catalogues may be had on the premises and of the auctioneer, Farningham, Kent."


1890, March 15: Sale of Stock at Hartley Court Gravesend Reporter
"By order of the Executors of the late Colonel Evelyn - Hartley Manor and Hartley Court, about 1½ miles from Fawkham Station, LC&DR


Mr William Hodsoll is instructed to sell by auction at Hartley Court, on Wednesday, March 19th 1890, at 12 for 1 o'clock, all the valuable live and dead farming stock comprising 13 powerful and active draught horses, a 2 year old cart colt, a ditto nag ditto, bay geldin, quite to ride and drive, bay pony, young roan cow in full profit, 2 goats with 2 kids, black sow with 7 pigs, black boar and 3 store pigs. The agricultural implements include 2 waggons, spring van, 9 dung carts, liquid manure cart, ploughs, harrows, drills, land rollers, mowing and reaping machines etc, a large iron cistern, also a clamp of Regent and Hebron seed potatoes (about 12 tons) and a quantity of cut underwood. Catalogues may be had on the premises and of the auctioneer, 188 Parrock Street, Gravesend and Farningham."


1890, March 18: Drunk and Disorderly at Longfield Maidstone Journal
"William Baker was charged with being drunk and disorderly and assaulting PC James Trill at Longfield, on the 14th March, and John Beggs was charged with being drunk and disorderly and assaulting PC Walter Humphrey, at the same time and place - Prisoners were each sentenced to 21 days' hard labour."


1890, May 24: Attempted Suicide at Longfield Gravesend Reporter
"A woman, name unknown, attempted to take her life on Sunday evening last, by jumping into a pond near Longfield Hill. She was rescued by a name named John Masters, and conveyed to Dartford Union, where she now lies in a precarious condition."


1890, June 14: Sale of Hartley Manor St James Gazette
"Kent - Freehold residential estate, about 1 mile from Fawkham Station on the London, Chatham and Dover Railway, 6 miles from Gravesend and Dartford, and about 24 miles from London.


Messrs Daniel Smith, Son and Oakley have received instructions to offer for sale by auction in the month of July (unless previously sold by private contract), the Hartley Manor Estate, in the parishes of Hartley and Longfield, comprising a gentleman's residence of moderate size, a large farm house, outbuildings, several cottages, and 585 acres of land in a ring fence, of which about 137 acres are thriving woodlands and the rest arable and pasture, offering a good opportunity for investment, and also for occupation and sporting. The house, known as Hartley Manor, stands of high ground, approached by a long carriage drive, and contains 7 bedrooms, 2 attics, entrance hall, dining room, library, drawing room, conservatory, and usual domestic offices. There are also 2 farms known as Hartley Court and Hartley Bottom, each having farm house, homesteead and several cottages respectively. The estate contains a valuable bed of brick earth and pottery clay, and also of flints, which are now being worked with a siding on the railway....."


[Interesting for being the earliest reference to Manor Drive. It was not mentioned when the property was marketed in 1884, and so the road can be dated to the period 1884-1890.


According to the Maidstone Journal it was the second sale of the year. The Bromley Times of 5.9.1890 reported that Mr F D Barnes of Bickley was the purchaser by private contract. The paper's edition of 23.1.1891 reported that the sale price was £10,000 - for nearly half the area of Hartley!]


1890, June 20: Horse for Sale Gravesend Reporter
"Cob for sale about 15 hands. Inquire of bailiff, Hartley Court"


1890, July 8: Theft Charge Maidstone Journal
Dartford Magistrates: "George Henry Skinner was charged with stealing 2lb of tobacco, of the value of 9s on the 23rd April; 1lb value 4s 6d on the 16th April; and 1lb value 4s 6d on the 30th April, the property of Alfred Francis Penney, provision merchant, at Dartford - Mr WE Chancellor (Ridley & Chancellor) appeared for the prosecutor, and Mr Studd, managing clerk to Messrs Venn and Woodcock for the prisoner - It appeared from the evidence that prisoner was in the habit of going around in the Kingsdown and Fawkham district taking orders on Wednesdays. The goods ordered were delivered the following Wednesday, when payment was made for them. On the dates above mentioned he sold the goods which he was charged with stealing, to Mr William Wither, who then kept the Portobello at [West] Kingsdown, but has since gone to live at Gravesend. The tobacco had been taken from the stores, without Mr Penney's knowledge or consent, and the money which he had received for it from Mr Kither, had not been paid to Mr Penney, nor in any way accounted for. - Prisoner was remanded till Saturday."


1890, August 9: Sale of Hartley Manor Beckenham Journal
"We are informed that the Hartley Manor Estate of 600 acres near Fawkham, formerly owned and occupied by the late Colonel Evelyn has been sold by private contract by Messrs D Smith, Son and Oakley to F D Barnes esq JP of Bickley and formerly of Broughton House, Beckenham, Kent"


1890, August 9: Longfield Cricket Club Gravesend Reporter
"Green Street Green v Longfield YMFSCC - this match was played on the ground of the latter, on Saturday last, although the best of the Longfield bats failed to do anything, resulted in a win for the home team by 10 runs on the first innings." Green Street Green 22 and 40, Longfield 32 and 13. Longfield team: F Langford 0 & 1, G Lynds 2, W Bridges 4 & 6*, J Ashdown 8 & 4*, J Bridges 0, W Stewart 0, W Rye 2, E Carey 7, H Hyde 1, D Carey 3, F Lynds 0*, Extras 5 & 2. Green Street Green team also listed.


1890, August 23: Outing to the Seaside Gravesend Journal
"The Town Band Excusion to Ramsgate and Margate - Quite in keeping with the successful career enjoyed by the promoters, as a local institution, the Town Band excursion to Ramsgate and Margate, on Monday was a great success. At 7 o'clock in the morning, the members mustered at their headquarters, the Darnley Arms, Trafalgar Road, and then marched through the principal streets of the town, playing lively airs, as a reminder to intending participators in the happy event. On reaching West Street station of the London, Chatham and Dover Railway, they found the special train which had been chartered for the occasion standing in the platform and a large number of excursionists already seated. Others joined afterwards, bringing the total from Gravesend up to more than 200. Smaller contingents were taken up at the various stations between Gravesend and Chatham, the largest being a party of 60 at Fawkham. These additions brought the aggregate total up to about 400. A little delay was occasioned at Farningham Road in order that the boat train might pass, but the run afterwards was a good one, the destination being reache at half past ten. The bank being in the front part of the train, rendered the journey much more pleasant that railway travelling generally proves, by performing a well selected programme of music. The majority of the party went onto Ramsgate where, in the afternoon, the band played on the beach for 2 hours. Bathing, boating, drives and sightseeing served to pass the time very happily, the fine weather throughout the day being no small contributor to the means of enjoyment. The homeward journey was commenced at half past eight, instead of quarter to eight as had been announced by the committee, this being in consequence of the railway company having about 60 excursions on their line the same day. The result was that Gravesend was not reached till past 11 o'clock, too late for the last up train to Greenhithe, adn the last train on the Tilbury line. A number of the party belonged to Grays, and these were conveyed across the river in watermen's skiffs (at the expense of the committee and Mr J Higgins) to Tilbury, whence they walked home. But for this unavoidable little incident, everything passed off without a hitch, and the arrangements reflected the highest credit upon the indefatigable secretary Mr E Dennis, and the committee, who were Messrs F Fothergill (chairman), C Tunstall (treasurer), A Stickings, F Sunnucks, A Eves and C Cox. The success of the venture will doubtless encourage the band to make an execursion to the seaside an annual event."


1890, September 27: Rochester Stock Market Gravesend Journal
Advert for sale of 30 pure bred Hampshire Down ram lambs "from the celebrated flocks of H B Hohler esq of Fawkham Manor, and of H B Mildmay esq of Shoreham, Kent and others."


1890, November 1: Sale of Wood at Hartley Manor Gravesend Reporter
"Mr William Hodsoll is instructed by FD Barnes esq to sell by auction at the Railway Tavern, Fawkham Station, on Wednesday November 5th, 1890 at 2 for 3 pm, about 18 acres of capital underwood, in convenient lots; also 2 acres of oziers."


1890, November 18: Local News in Brief Maidstone Journal
Dartford Magistrates: "(1) Henry Thomas Fairman was summoned for allowing a dog to be at large, at Longfield, on the 10th November, without a collar. PC Trill proved the case, and defendant was fined 2s 6d and costs."; (2) Arthur Chapam was charged with being asleep, while in charge of a horse and cart, at Longfield on 31st October. The case was proved by PC Trill, and defendant was fined 5s and costs."


1891, January 17: John Middleton, 103 Folkestone Herald
"A man named John Middleton, of Hartley, died in Dartford Workhouse last week at the advanced age of 103 years. Deceased maintained all his faculties till the last, and enjoyed the Christmas festivities with the other inmates."


[Gravesend Journal 28.3.1891 adds "He was formerly a shepherd, and lived for several years in a field hut." and that his birthday was in September]


1891, January 27: Hartley Manor and Court for Sale Maidstone Journal
"The Estates Gazette says that last year the county sales in Kent were more numerous, and land and residential properties in better demand than in the previous year, and good prices were obtained. One of the earliest transacions it reports 'was the sale, by private treaty, for about £14,000 of Shortlands House with about 16 acres at Bromley, the seat of Sir Arthur Blackwood, KCB. This was shortly followed by the sale of Wateringbury Place and 83 acres, near Maidstone, which was purchased by Alderman Davies, for £20,000, while Hartley Manor and 585 acres near Fawkham was sold for £10,000. These 3 properties were all sold within the first 2 months of the year, the last-named property again changing hands later in the season for £12,000." Farmland in general going for £7 to £75 per acre.


1891, January 31: Hartley House to let Gravesend Reporter
Rayner Kidwell & Bridgland of 16 New Road Gravesend have Hartley House to let - "Bijou residence comprising 3½ acres, 3 receptions, 6 bedrooms, stabling, greenhouses, well stocked orchard etc."


1891, April 4: Wheelwright's Business for Sale Gravesend Reporter
"To Wheelwrights, Carpenters and Undertakers. Hartley: Kent. To be disposed of, either with or without the convenient residence, the old established business, which has been so ably and successfully carried on for many years by the late Mr Deane. Stock at valuation. Apply to Mr Hodsoll, auctioneer, Farningham and Gravesend."


1891, April 7: No Name on Cart Maidstone Journal
Dartford Magistrates: "Robert Wakeman of Longfield, was summoned for using a cart which had no name on it. PC Kitney proved the case. Defendant said he only had the cart on trial, and the case was dismissed."


1891, April 7: Fraud Charge at Fawkham Maidstone Journal
Dartford Magistrates: "James Vietch, bailiff, of Scudders Farm, Fawkham, was charged with stealing £9 15s 6d, the money of Henry Bertie Hohler, on the 25th March - Mr Hohler brother of the prosecutor, conducted the prosecution - The Hon Eric Rollo, who manages the Fawkham Estate, belonging to Mr Hohler, said the defendant had notice to leave, and his notice expired on the 26th March. It had been the habit of the estate for the men to be paid on a Friday, and an order was usually given by witness to defendant upon Mr Whiting, a village tradesman, who cashed the order, and the defendant paid the men with the money so received. Friday the 26th March being Good Friday, the men were paid on Thursday instead, and witness gave defendant an order on Whiting for £15 7s 6d, giving him also his own cheque for £2 10s for wages due to him. At first he refused to give the defendant the order to pay the men, as his time was up, but upon his representing to him that it would look better for him to pay the men as usual, as it might affect his character if he did not, he gave him the order. He had ascertained that the defendant had cashed the order, and that 4 men, named Trevelyan, Darby, Shepherd and Bennett, had not been paid by him. He had spoken to the defendant about this, and he refued to pay them - Defendant said his agreement with Mr Hohler was that he was to have 30s a week wages, and that 5s a week was to be stopped till Michaelmas, when the whole of the accumulations were to be paid, and the money he had stopped was to satisfy his claim in this matter - Mr Hohler said this statement was not correct, but had had not the agreement with him, and contended that, even if it were as stated by the defendant, he had no right to keep money given to him for a specific purpose, but should seek his remedy in another way - The magistrates were not satisfied with the case for the prosecution, and adjourned the case for a week, the chairman remarking that by then perhaps they would be able to present a case before the Bench in a more intelligible form, and they must bring the agreement."


[Paper of 14.4.1891 reported that the parties had settled out of court: Dartford Magistrates: "James Beach of Scudders Farm, Fawkham, appeared to answer a charge of fraudulently witholding money, the property of Mr Henry Booth Hohler. The case was remanded from Saturday last, and it was now stated that the matter had been settled, and the case was, with the consent of the magistrates, withdrawn." Once again this seems an attempt by the powerful to use the criminal law for what was basically a civil matter]


1891, April 18: Houses to let at Longfield Gravesend Reporter
"Two pretty villas to let, together or separate, pleasantly situated, near Fawkham station, LC & Dover Railway, containing 7 rooms each, garden back and front; rent £20 each per annum. Apply, No 2 Longfield Villas."


1891, April 25: Rochester Stock Market Chatham News
Report mentions "capital stock of lambs" sent for sale by Mr Hohler of Fawkham.


1891, April 28: Stock for Sale at North Ash Farm Maidstone Journal
"North Ash, Wrotham, 2 miles from Fawkham Station LC&DR


Messrs W Wood and Son will sell by auction in a meadow on the North Ash Farm (by the kind permission of Mr G Day) on Friday, May 1st 1891, at 1 o'clock, the live and dead farming stock, the property of gentlemen in the neighbourhood, comprising 14 useful cart and nag horses, 2 nag colts (2 years old), 70 beasts, 1 bull, 6 cows in milk and in calf, 100 Kent and half bred tegs, 7 sows, 8 pigs, quantity of poultry, 3 trucks, 3 dung carts, covered sheep van, pony van, Kent plough complete, 2 iron ploughs, iron broadshare, 2 brakes, mower, scarifier, 2 hop nidgets, 3 ox harrows, 2 sets of Yorkshire harrows, set of zig-zag harrows, 5 share drill, 3 horse rakes, 2 chaff cutters, cake mill, turnip cutter, elevator (with horse gear complete), 200 hurdle gates (new), 2 30 stave ladders, 2 corn chests, 3 plough harness, 2 chain harness, 2 quoiler harness, 2 horse nets, 3 nose bags, 3 head stalls, beam and scales, wire hen coop, wire vermin trap, 2 dog kennels, 4 wheel dog cart, waggonette, dog cart, wheelbarrow with moveable top (new), churn, etc. All further entries respectfully solicited. All entries received to April 27th will be inserted in the catalogue. Arrangements will be made for conveyance to meet the trains at Fawkham Station. Offices - Cooling, Rochester and at 31 High Street, Rochester."


1891, May 9: Sale of Furniture from Bay Lodge Chatham News
"Bay Cottage", Hartley, Kent: Mr Hodsoll is instructed by the executors of the late Mr Deane, to sell by auction on the premises, as above, on Friday, May 15th, 1891 at 12 for 1pm all the valuable household furniture. Comprising mahogany, Arabian and other bedsteads, superior feather beds and bedding, mahogany chests of drawers, washstands with marble tops, toilet tables and glasses, Brussels and other carpets, mahogany secretary and bookcase, couches, chairs, loo and other tables, chimney glasses, silver plate, plated articles, china, glass, Baker's patent mangle, culinary utensils etc....."


[The Gravesend Reporter of 4.4.1891 carried a brief advert to sell the business.]


1891, May 29: Sale of Bay Lodge, Ash Road Bromley Times
"By order of the executors of the late Mr Deane - Hartley Kent


To wheelwrights, carpenters, undertakers etc. Mr Hodsoll will sell by auction, on the premises, as above, on Friday June 5, 1891 at 11 for 12 o'clock, the valuable stock in trade, comprising seasoned oak, ash and elm planks and boards, wheels, felloes, spokes, naves and other useful timber, axles and other iron work, timber chains, pit and cross cut saws, ladders, quantity of tools, nuts, bolts, screws, nails, undertaker's furniture, and numerous useful effects. Catalogues may be had at the Black Lion Inn, Hartley, and of the auctioner, Farningham, Kent."


1891, June 3: Want Position Times
"Coachman, single handed. Drive well pair or single. Age 24. 2 years 6 months good character. Leaving or giving up. Married when suited. F Day, Hartley House, Hartley, Near Dartford, Kent."


[The adverts are written in a kind of standard shorthand. Mr Day's employer was leaving Hartley so he needed to find a new situation.]


1891, July 24: Black Lion Pub Bromley Times
Dartford Magistrates: "On the application of Mr H E Baily, solicitor of Dartford, the magistrates granted an extension of time to Mr Wansbury, of the Black Lion Inn, Hartley, till 11 o'clock on the 20th inst, on the occasion of a Forester's fete and dinner."


1891, August 15: Warning to Traders Chatham News
"About 3 weeks ago, two lady shopkeepers at Rochester received a communication from a person signing himself 'Horace Barnes' of Hartley Green, near Fawkham, asking that fancy work and other articles might be sent on to him, as he was about to make a present to some friends in Australia, and wished to select something both handsome and costly. The parcels were to be left at Fawkham Station until called for. Both ladies made inquiries, and finding that everything was apparently all right, sent the parcels on by rail. One parcel contained £20 worth of goods, while the other was made up with articles to the value of £15. Nothing more has since been heard of either the parcels or the writer, and consequently the matter has been placed in the hands of the police, who, upon investigation, found that the supposed 'Horace Barnes' and his wife hired a room at a cottage near Fawkham Station, for 2 or 3 days. During that time, at their request, their landlord fetched various parcels from the station for them They have since left the neighbourhood, and at present nothing is known of their whereabouts. The police have a possible clue, and it is hoped that the 'smart' visitors ay soon be run to earth."


1891, September 25: West Yoke Farm for Sale Sevenoaks Chronicle
"West Yoke Farm, Ash, Wrotham, Kent, about 3 miles from Fawkham and Meopham Stations, and 4 from Wrotham, LC&DR.


Messrs Cronk [of Sevenoaks and 12 Pall Mall SW] have received instructions from Mr Day, who is leaving, to sell by auction on the premises, as above, on Friday, October 9th 1891, at 12 o'clock precisely the valuable live and dead farming stock, comprising 5 powerful cart horses, 61 Kent ewes in lamb, Hampshire ram lamb. The implements comprise, narrow wheel waggons, dung carts, captial light spring dog cart, captial mowing and reaping machines by Hornsby and Samuelson, cleaning machine, Kent and other ploughs, ox and small harrows, iron horse rake, Cambridge and other land rollers, iron land presses, Bentall's broadshare, scarifiers, hop nidgets, oilcake crushers, and chaff cutting machines, turnip pulpers, collar, chain and plough harnesses, stack cloths, poles, pullies, and ropes, about 400 slat gates, quantity of wire netting, scale beam, scales and weights, weighing machine, ladders, grindstone and frame, sheep troughs, cages and numerous other effects."


1891, October 10: Theft from Fawkham Resident Chatham News
Fawkham: "A resident in this parish had a very unpleasant experience on Saturday evening. She had been 'below London' to fetch home her little girl, who had been spending a lengthened holiday at a friend's. On arriving at Victoria Station by the Brighton train, she found the train she had expected to catch on the London, Chatham and Dover Railway had been taken off, and that she had no alternative but to wait between 3 and 4 hours. She sat down with the child in one of the waiting rooms, and placed a box,c ontaining the little girl's clothing and presents, beneath one of the seats, almost close to her. When she went to get the box about 9 o'clock - the train started at half past - she found that it had been stolen. It is thought mother and child, fatigued by their journey and the tedium of wating, went to sleep for a few minutes, and that some thief, probably a female, who had been waiting for the opportunity, seized the box and walked off with it. The contents were of some value."


1891, December 19: Christmas at Chatham Chatham News
"…. Mr C Harrison [butcher] has some 20 good Devon and Scotch beasts, southdown sheep from Mr Smith, of Hartley, with pigs, poultry and rabbits…."


1892, January 2: Delivery Area Gravesend Journal
Advert for William Box, Grocer and Tea Dealer, 18 High Street and 52 Queen Street, Gravesend - Delivers as far as Greenhithe, Longfield, Cobham [Hartley, Ash, Meopham not listed].


1892, January 8: First Local Chemist Gravesend Reporter
(Local gossip by Nota Bene): "Mr Robson of Longfield has at last succeeded in gaining his point with regard to the proposed dispensary at Fawkham Station for the convenience of Poor Law patients. The two medical officers concerned were against the idea at first, but the Board of Guardians being determined that the scheme should be tried, they have gracefully submitted. The dispensary will be a great boon to the people of that neighbourhood, who hitherto have had to walk a dozen miles to get a bottle of physic or a box of pills, and occasionally the journey has had to done a second time."


[A report of the Dartford Guardians meeting said Dr Smith reported he had ordered a medicine chest at a cost of £10.10.0 - Bromley Times 29.1.1892. The local Guardians claimed it wasn't well used about a year later - Maidstone Journal 20.4.1893]


1892, January 26: County Council Election Maidstone Journal
"Dartford (No 1) - Mr W Chambers will again seek election, and as Colonel Hartley, who was also a candidate at the first election, does not intend to again come forward, there will possibly be a walkover."


1892, February 12: Fowl Stealing Extraordinary Dartford Chronicle
"A couple of somewhat remarkable fowl stealing cases came on for hearing before the Dartford Magistrates, at the Petty Sessions on Saturday. Those magistrates occupying the seats on the bench were: Mr Thomas Bevan (in the chair), Major Frobrisher, Mr E.J.Elgood, and Mr F.T.Tasker.


In the first case, Richard James Crouch, and George Thomas Davis, both young men, were charged, on remand, of stealing three fowls, and one live duck, valued at 10/-, the property of Mr Henry Smith, at Fawkham on November 24th.


In relation to this charge, the following evidence was adduced:-


John Wane, of West Hill, Ash, farm labourer, stated that he went down to his employer's stables at seven o'clock in the morning, at Court Lodge Farm, Fawkham, on November 24th. Witness went into the henhouse, to feed the chicken and the ducks. He noticed that there was a duck missing. After he had fed the ducks he went into the henhouse and saw a couple of heads lying upon the floor. He sent word to Mr Day, who had the looking after Mr Smith's place, and to him he showed the heads. Mr Smith was the tenant. There should have been four ducks and a drake, whereas there were but three. The witness said he noticed that the staple had been drawn from the henhouse door.


Mr Day, in the employ of Mr Henry Smith, deposed that his attention had been drawn to the henhouse on the 24th November. He saw the two heads produced lying upon the floor, and he took charge of them. Witness gave information to Instructing constable Rhodes. Witness afterwards saw police constable Humphrey at Fawkham Green, to whom he also gave information. The henhouse was examined the next day (November 25th) by police constable Humphrey. This witness said there should have been 60 chickens in the henhouse on Sunday, the 24th. He counted 57 only. Witness valued the three chickens and duck at 10/-. Witness locked . the henhouse up on November 23rd, at about 4.30 pm. The fowls were quite safe at that time.


Mrs Elizabeth Ludlow, of Mile End Green, Horton Kirby stated that the prisoner Crouch came to her about a fortnight previous, and asked her if she would like to buy a fowl. This was about six o'clock (at this point the witness commenced to cry bitterly). She said she asked the man what he wanted for one, and he said 2s. Witness said she gave the man the 2s for a dark fowl, similar in colour to that produced. The head had been removed.


In reply to Mr Elgood, the witness said the man Crouch brought the chicken to her about a fortnight previous, she could not remember the exact date.


Police Constable Walter Humphrey (stationed at Hartley) stated that the saw the two prisoners on Sunday night last. He noticed that Crouch had a brown paper parcel under his left arm, and said "What, do you carry parcels about, on Sunday night now, Dick?" and he said "Yes, sometimes". Witness said "What is inside it?" and he replied "Nothing particular." Witness however said he wanted to see it, and began to examine it, and found it contained a lot of feathers. Witness then said "there are some feathers here, have you got any fowl?" and he said "Yes, I have two, I gave 3s for them, ls 6d each." Witness took the white fowl out of the parcel, and next a duck. He said "I have a duck here," and Crouch said "Yes, I forgot that; I gave 4s 6d for it." Witness then asked the prisoner from whom he bought the fowls, and he said "Of a man who was by our place at it half past ten last night." In reply to a further question the prisoner said he had never seen the man before, and he should not know him again if he were to see him. Witness told prisoner he was not satisfied, and stated that they answered the description of some stolen fowls, and he should take him to Fawkham in order to see if they could be identified. Both prisoners were afterwards taken to witness Day's house at Fawkham by the witness, who, in their presence, asked Day if he had seen the fowls before. Day said "I can swear to this one out of a hundred" (the brown), and he also said with reference to the white fowl that "he would fetch a head that would fit it." Day further said that the duck had no particular mark on it, but that it was exactly similar to one stolen. The constable asked Crouch if the young fellow Davis knew anything about the fowls, and he said "No." Witness then said that he should arrest Crouch for stealing the fowls, but to Davis he said "I shall not arrest you now." He brought Crouch to Dartford, and on Tuesday morning, February 2nd, he accompanied Rhodes to Fawkham, where they saw the prisoner Davis. He said "Crouch has made a statement implicating you in this fowl robbery." And he said "Oh! Has he: that is what I expected when I first saw you. He's a nice chum to round on me." He also said on the 13th January. He saw Day near the tavern. They asked him if he would buy any fowls, and he replied that he bought anything. Day had the fowls on top of his van. They were dead. To the best of witnesses recollection there were three hen birds. It was agreed that he should pay 2s apiece for the birds, but he had not yet paid the money. Witness said that he did not look at the birds before he bought them. He had on several occasions had rabbits of the prisoner Day.


Cross examined by Mr Chancellor, witness said the van Day was driving was a coal van. He bought the fowls from Day, and this was all he could say. The fowls were not concealed in any way. He had he said bought lots of wild rabbits of the prisoner Day. Sometimes he paid at the time he bought them, and sometimes afterwards. He bought some thousands of rabbits.


Police Constable Humphrey stated that on January lst he had visited and examined the place belonging to Rev W. Allen, and he found that the hen house had been entered the same as had been described by the witness Wells. He saw the prisoner Day at Longfield on the same day, January lst, and witness said to him that he believed the young fellow Davis was at his (prisoners) house on the previous night, and Crouch also. Day said, "Yes, they were there having a sing-song." Asked when they came, he said about eight o'clock, and that they went about half-past eleven. Witness asked if they brought anything with them, and he said he had not. He also asked him if he saw the men again after they had gone. He said "No, why?" Witness said "Because some fowls were stolen from Mr Allen's last night, and things seem to point very much to Crouch and Davis having taken them." He also said, "If you want to know anything about it, I have not seen anything." On February lst the witness said he saw the prisoner Day near the Church at Hartley, and he said, "I hear Dick Crouch was taken last night," and witness replied, "Yes he was, for fowl stealing." He also said to Day, "Are you sure you don't know anything about those who came from Mr Allen's, as he and the other young fellow were at your house last night?" He said, "No, I don't know anything about it." If I had I should have told you on the next day when you asked me." On the following morning (Tuesday), witness accompanied instructing constable Rhodes to the prisoner Davis at Fawkham respecting the last charge. Having been told that he was implicated, Davis said, "He's a nice chum to round upon anybody, if it had not been for him I should not have helped done Mr Allen's job." (This evidence referred to Crouch). "As soon as we left George Day's house at twelve o'clock, he said (meaning Crouch), let us take some of Mr Allen's fowls." They then went to the hen-house and made a hole through the thatched roof. Davis said he had in there six fowls; the others made such a noise that we ran away. We then took them to Day's house. He (Crouch) promised me 4s for my share, but I have never had anything." They afterwards took prisoner Davis to Fawkham "he came to my place at about twelve o'clock on Saturday night and asked me to come and take some of Mr Smith's fowls, I told him I should not go as he had not 'squared up' for the last job at Mr Allen's. He promised me 4s for this, but I never had any money. He persuaded me, and I went with him to Mr Smith's, and helped him break open the door. We took them to my stable, and kept them till last Sunday night. All I have had is one shilling for one or two of the fowls he took away a night or two afterwards." Davis was afterwards brought to Dartford and was charged. Instructing Constable Rhodes was with witness when Crouch made his statement, and upon this being repeated before Davis, Crouch replied that it was correct.


Instructing Constable Rhodes deposed that on the 2nd inst. at 9.30 am he conveyed the prisoner Crouch to Dartford police station. He asked witness if he had seen his father, and he replied that he had, and prisoner then wished to know how he took it. The witness replied that he was very much cut up about the affair, and he said, "Long un (Davis) was with me when I did it, and they were in his stable until we shifted them on Sunday night." He corroborated the statement as made by himself to Humphrey. They were both charged with jointly stealing the fowls and duck on November 23rd, and they made no reply. The feathers produced were found in Davis's employer's stable. Davis had not a stable of his own.


Another charge, that of stealing six live fowls from the fowl-house belonging to the Rev Whitton Allen, at Hartley, on December 31st, or morning of January lst last, was next preferred against Davis and Crouch. A man named George Day was also charged in this case with having received the 3 fowls into his possession, well knowing them to have been stolen. Day was defended by Mr Chancellor.


William Wells, gardener, in the employ of the Rev Whitton Allen (Hartley) said he had locked the fowls up securely on December 31st, in the hen-house. He said he could not say how many there were. Witness went the next morning to the hen-house. This would be on January lst, when he found that someone had broken in. The fowls were in two compartments. The window was broken of one compartment, and into the other compartment an entrance had been effected through the roof, the thatch having been pulled off. Witness said that the three fowls which were in one compartment the night previous were missing on January lst. These were very common fowls. A dead fowl lay with its head off. The head produced was similar to the head of the dead fowl. Witness valued the fowls at 2s each.


George Mills, of South Street, Dartford, General Dealer, deposed to purchasing three fowls of a. Mr Day. He met the accused when he was coming home from Fawkham railway station and they said to Day, "Those fowls have gone to your place which were stolen from Allen's place on Saturday night." Day said, I don't know anything about them." In consequence of what was said, Police Constable Rhodes told both that they would have to accompany him to the Police Station, as he was not at all satisfied about them. Day afterwards said (with some hesitation) "Crouch and Davis were at my house on New Year's Eve and left about twelve. About an hour afterwards they came back and Crouch gave me six fowls and I gave him 9s for them then. We ate one and I kept the other five for nearly a fortnight. Then I let George Mills have them, he never gave me anything for them as he said they were too far gone." Day and Davis were taken to the Police Station and Crouch was informed of the statements made by Davis and Day. They were then charged with stealing six fowls the property of Mr Allen. Crouch said when charged "Yes there were six, and you (meaning Day) gave me 7s for them." Day said "No it wasn't, it was 9s". They then told Day that he would be charged with receiving the six fowls, well knowing them to be stolen, Day replied, "The reason I did not tell Humphrey was because I did not wish to get into trouble. They brought them to me (the other two prisoners) and I had them."


At this juncture Mr Chancellor wished to ask privately some questions of Crouch and Davis, whereupon Superintendent Webster objected.


The magistrates, however held that Mr Chancellor had a perfect right to ask any questions he chose of the accused for the purposes of the defence.


Mr Chancellor cross-examined the witness Humphrey. Instructing constable Rhodes (A-b), deposed that he saw the prisoner Davis respecting the previous charge, at Fawkham, and he corroborated the evidence of Humphrey, which was, this witness said, correct. Day said, after they had gone into his house, to his wife, "This comes of those fowls which young Dick brought." Day's wife then said, "Good gracious, I hope there's nothing wrong." Day replied, "It's all wrong for me; give me my jacket." Instructing constable Rhodes stated that Crouch and Davis were first charged with stealing three fowls which were missing.


Instructing constable Barnes (Farningham) said that on Wednesday last the prisoners were liberated out on bail. The prisoner Day accompanied him to the police station to receive his property, and during his conversation with witness he said, "How do you think I shall got on, think it'll be a fine?" and witness replied that he could not tell. Pointing to the other prisoners, who were just ahead of Day, he said if they had said they had stolen three or four fowls I should have been all right, as I should have paid full value for them."


1892, February 13: Hunting Times
West Kent Hunt to meet at Hartley


1892, February 19: Diamond Wedding Kentish Mercury
"Mr and Mrs James Thomas Smith, of Fairby House, Eltham Road, Lee. The sixtieth (diamond) anniversary of whose wedding took place on Sunday evening last, celebrated the event on the following evening, when they were surrounded by a number of their nephews and nieces and most intiate friends. Mr and Mrs Smith were married on the 14th February 1832, at St Alphege Church, Greenwich, Mr Smith being 21 years of age, and Mrs Smith 17. Mrs Smith's uncle, Mr Colgate was a very old resident of Greenwich. Mr Smith has been associated with Deptford all his life. He served the office of churchwarden and overseer at St Pauls Deptford, for 3 years, and was a director of the Deptford Gas Works. He succeed his father at Sun Wharf in the business of coal merchants, wharfingers, and ship owners, form which he retired some years ago. He still takes an active interest in several estates he has in different parts of the country. Mr and Mrs Smith are both enjoying very good health, and no-one would suppose they had been married 60 years."


[James Thomas Smith batchelor and Jane Ann Chivers, spinster, married 14.2.1832]


1892, February 20: The Dangers of Racing on the Public Highway Gravesend Journal
"A case of some interest was heard at the Gravesend County Court, on Tuesday, before his honour Judge Ingram, and a jury, in which James Coomber, residing at 10 Salisbury Road, Perry Street, sued Mrs Houghton of 10 Milton Road, Gravesend for £50 as compensation for injuries received by being run over in consequence of the neglect and furious driving of the defendant's servant on the 21st March last at Green Street Green - Mr G F Hohler (instructed by Mr A J Ellis, Maidstone) appeared for the plaintiff, and Mr Muir (instructed by Messrs Tolhurst, Lovell and Clinch) represented the defendant - Mr Hohler, in his opening statement, detailed the circumstances of the accident, remarking that on being knocked down by the defendant's cab both wheels passed over Coomber's legs, and he was very seriously injured. He was removed to Gravesend Hospital and remainded there some time. He produced a certificate from the surgeon of the hospital, dated 16th September - 6 months after the accident - which stated that the plaintiff was then suffering from the effects of fractured ribs, and was unable to work at his own employment, but might be able to do light work. At the plaintiff's time of life, the accident was a serious matter to him. At the time, a one mile race was being run on the public road between two men, whom the cab was following, and as the race was completed in about 5 minutes, the cab must therefore approximately have been going at a rate of 12 miles an hour - The plaintiff stated that he was a labourer. On the 21st March last he went to Green Street Green witha pony and cart belonging to his son. Near the White Hart Hotel he saw 500 or 600 people assembled in a crowd on and about the road. Not being able to get through the crowd, he put the pony and cart on the green. He then commenced to cross over the road, when he saw two runners round the corner. He ran back to get to the horse and cart, but was knocked down by a vehicle, and rendered insensible. He was then about 5 or 6 feet from the edge of the green. The road was 25 feet wide. He did not see the vehicle until he was knocked down. He was taken to the Gravesend Hospital and remained there for a month. He had since attended Guys Hospital in London, and had been under treatment there for 2 months. He had not yet recovered from the injuries he received. He had pains in the chest, side, and shoulder, and he was unable to put his coat on. He had formerly been employed in digging cess pools and other labouring work; he was unable to do that now. He had been earning about 4s 6d or 5s a day previous to the accident; he had not earned anything since - Cross examined by Mr Muir: He was 66 years of age. He did see Mrs Houghton after he came out of the hospital, and then told him that she did not see how she could be liable for what had been done by her servant. The Labourers' Union, of which he was a member, was not forcing him to bring on this action. ONe of the runners was named Bevan, a Perry Street man. He had known him for several years. He had heard that he was going to run the race, but he did not know where. He did not put any mony upon him - not even a modest half crown. He went to Green Street Green on business; he was not a sporting man himself. He went there to seek some cabbages for his son, who kept a greengrocer's shop at Perry Street. He had a nephew in the cart with him. He could not say which of the runners was ahead. He had got a little more than half way across the road before he turned back to look after the pony. Asked whether he did not suddenly burst out from the side of the road and run against the shafts of the vehicle, the plaintiff said 'Not that I know of.' He had previously kept a public house. The Union referred to was a society for the benefit of its members in sickness. The Union was assisting him in bringing this action - Henry Clark said he was a labourer, and lived at 11 Union Street, Gravesend. He was at Green Street Green on the day in question and saw the race. It was run on the road between Dartford and Fawkham, a distance of 1 mile. The race was run in 5 minutes. He was in the second cab, which followed the one driven by the defendant's servant, who was known as 'Fishy'. He saw the start of the race, but he did not quite see the finish as they could not get through the crowd. He saw the near hind wheel of Fishy's cab pass over the plaintiff. They pulled onto the Green to get out of the way. They were only a couple of yards behind the first cab. There were 400 or 500 people collected about the road. He went down with one of the men who started the competitors - Frederick Mortimer, local secretary of the Labourers' Union stated that the Union was assisting the plaintiff in this action. He went with the plaintiff on the 16th June to see Mrs Houghton to ascertain what she was going to do in the case, when she replied that she could not do anything in it, as she was a poor woman, and did not see why she shoudl be held responsible for the actions of her servant. She remarked that he should summons Thompson, otherwise 'Fishy' for furious driving. She did not suggest that the accident was due to contributory negligence on the part of the plaintiff - Cross Examined: The Labourers' Union existed for a two fold purpose: first, as a trades union, and secondly, as providing a fund for sick and funeral benefit, for which they had to pay extra. The plaintiff was a sharer in the latter fund, and during his illness he had received 12 shillings for the first 16 weeks, 7s 6d for the second 16 weeks, and 2s 6d for the third 16 weeks. He ceased to receive benefit in October last - Albert Knight, dairyman of 67 High Street, Northfleet, stated that on the Saturday in question he was at Green Street Green. He saw Coomber knocked down on the road and run over. Coomber walked off the green as if going over the road. He would be about 5 feet from the edge of the grass when knocked down. When told that he had run over a man, 'Fishy' said he would 'run over the b____ lot of them, if they did not get out of the way.' The cab was being driven at the rate of 10 or 12 miles an hour, and if a policeman had been there he would have summoned them for furious driving. - This was the case for the plaintiff. - Mr Muir, who said he would reserve his remarks, called for the defence William Thompson, who stated that he was a cab driver, and was in the employ of the defendant up to the 25th March last. Defendant was a widow, and carried on business as a cab proprietor in Gravesend until March of last year. On the 21st March he took five persons from Gravesend to Green Street Green named Lucas, Whiskin, Gee, Ridley and Sandford. He saw the start of the race between the two men, and followed behind with the cab, which contained four persons, named Luca, Bennett, Bearsby and another gentleman. They kept about 50 or 60 yards behind the runners. When the accident occurred they were about 20 yards behind. The men were then about done. He saw Coomber rush off the Green and try to catch hold of the shaft. He pulled the mare aside, and Coombe fell amongst the hind wheels. Knowing that Mr Ridley possessed an ambulance corps certificate, he sought him to attend to the injured man. He was certain he did not use the words imputed to him - Cross examined: He was about 20 yards behind the runners, and could not go any faster on account of the crowd. He was going at a steady rate of 6 or 7 miles an hour. The men were both done and it was about 50 yards to the winning post. Neither the referee nor the umpire were in his cab. They were there on purpose to see the race. - John Whiskin said he was a ground professional for a cricket club. He was on the Green when the accident occurred, about 20 yards off. He saw the plaintiff all onto the shaft; he could not say whether he was pushed on. He did not see him in the road. The men could not be running very fast at the close of a mile race - Cross examined: Runners did 'spurt' at the finish when possible, but in this case they would want 'new bellows' (laughter). The runners would perhaps have 100 yards to go after they passed him. - William Ridley, landlord of the Britannia Public House, Bath Street, Gravesend, said he was standing ont he Gren at the time of the accident, about 30 yards off. He saw the plaintiff fall oto the shafts; he might have been pushed. He was not at any time in front of the horses. He had an Army Service as well as a St John's Ambulance Certificate, and he attended to the injured man as best he could. - Cross Examined: he had no money on the race. He only went as a spectator - William Lucas, fish monger, of 26 West Street, Gravesend, said he was in the cab driven by Thompson. He saw Coomber, who seemed to be going with the crowd, come off the green and collide with the shafts. The driver pulled the horse aside, and Coomber fell under the hind wheels. He was never in front of the horse. They could only be going about 8 miles an hour as the men wer exhausted. - Cross Examined: He did not bet on the race. There was a large number of brakes about. - Charles Priestly, sweep, of Gravesend, said he was standing about 6 yards from where the accident occurred. He was standing near Coomber, and shortly after remarking that the last man was drawing ahead, he saw the plaintiff run up against the shaft and fall under the hind wheels. He considered it was his own fault - Cross examined: He had no interest in the race - His honour: Nobody seems to have had (laughter) - Alfred John Bearley, coach builder of Gravesend, who was in the cab when the accident occurred, said he did not hear the driver make use of the words suggested - Mr Muir then addressed the jury for the defence, contending that there was contributory negligence on the part of the plaintiff. He suggested that Coomber stepped off the Green onto the road to get a better view of the race as most exciting point, when the last man was catching up to his opponent, heedless of what was coming along at the time. - Mr Hohler having replied, the Judge summed up, remarking that in his opinion it was highly discreditable on the part of the police not have prevented the race, for it must have been a matter of notoriety that the race was going to take place. A race of this kind on a public road was alike an inconvenience and a danger, and he considered it should have been stopped by the police - After an absence of 15 minutes, the jury returned a verdict for the plaintiff for the full amount claimed - Judgement for the plaintiff accordingly."


[5 miles for a mile was a respectable time in those days, the winning time for the shorter 1,500m in the 1896 Olympics was 4min 33sec. Elsewhere in the paper it reported the jury wanted to award £70 but was told £50 was the maximum they could award. The paper of 18.4.1891 reported on another half mile race at Green Street Green betwen W Wenburn (Gravesend) and R Palmer (Perry Street).]


1892, February 27: County Council Election Gravesend Journal
"To the electors of the Dartford No 1 Division. Comprising the parishes of Ash, Darenth, Fawkham, Hartley, Horton Kirby, [West] Kingsdown, Longfield, Ridley and Southfleet.


Ladies and Gentlemen, I again beg to offer you my services as county councillor for the ensuing 3 years. I have during my term of office carried out to the best of my ability the furtherance of those questions which have been brought before the council for the gneral benefit of my constituents. The question of old age pensions was introduced by me last year, with a view of taking the opinion of the council thereon; but, unfortunately, my motiom was not allowed by the chairman to be discussed. Should you again honour me with your confidence, I will endeavour to carry out the duties you have placed upon me. I beg to remain, ladies and gentlemen, your obedient servant. William Chambers. Manor House, Southfleet, Gravesend. February 13th, 1892."


1892, March 19: Alleged Attempted Rape on a Little Girl Gravesend Journal
Northfleet Police Court: "Joseph Smith (16), belonging to Ash near Dartford, was brought up in custoy charged with attempting to commit a rape on Amy Ann Sparks, aged 6 years, at Northfleet, on the previous Sunday afternoon. The little girl, who was not sworn, and who cried on being questioned as to the occurrence, stated that she, her little brother and prisoner were playing in the waggon lodge (shed), when the latter took hold of her and put her on some straw, and there attempted the offence. Sarah Ann Sparks, wife of William James Sparks, a waggoner, and mother of the little girl, said she lived at some cottages known as Frog's Island, although the proper name was Downes Farm, and prisoner lodged at her house. Witness then detailed how she found her daughter and prisoner in the waggon shed and the state of the former's clothes. Prisoner cried and said he was very sorry. PC A Bourne said from information received on Sunday, about 6 o'clock pm, he went to Upper Downes Farm, in the parish of Northfleet, to some cottages known as Frog's Island. At Mr Spark's house he saw the prisoner Smith, when he charged him with an attempted rape on Amy Ann Sparks. He made the reply, 'Yes, I know I did, and I can't think what made me do it. I should not have done it, only the little girl asked me to go up on the straw with her.' Prisoner furhter said, 'I am sorry I did it; I wish I had gone to Church as I usually do on Sunday afternoons, and I then I should not be in this bother.' He brought him to the Police Station at Northfleet and he was locked up. Witness received the clothing produced from the mother of the child. Prisoner, who elected to be sworn, made a statement to the effect he committed the offence with the consent of the child. Prisoner was committed for trial at the next Kent Assizes, bail being allowed, prisoner in the sum of £20, and two sureties of £10 each. Prisoner was detained pending such sureties being forthcoming.


[Kent & Sussex Courier 8.7.1892 briefly reported on the Assize Court case. His defence was not believed, he was found guilty, and sentenced to 4 months' imprisonment. Today this seems a very short sentence for such a shocking case]


1892, March 26: Nurse Wanted Gravesend Reporter
"A nurse wanted at once, not under 17, must understand and be fond of children - Mrs Walter Newcomb, Lyndhurst, Longfield."


[Rare for such an advert to be phrased like this then, obviously Mrs Newcomb was a loving mother]


1892, May 20: Alleged Embezzlement Bromley Times
Dartford Magistrates: "George Day was charged with embezzling 8s 6d, the money of his employer, Mr Harry Lacey Fraser, at Fawkham, on the 18th August; also 8s 6d between June and November; and 4s 3d on the 24th December - Mr Ridley, who appeared to prosecute, said that defendant had been in Mr Fraser's employ as a carman, and had to receive money for coal and coke he delivered. There were other sums besides these mentioned, which had not been accounted for - Mr Gregory, Solicitor of Bromley defended - The evidence given last week was read over, and Mrs Feild recalled, and examinde by Mr Gregory, said she paid the money at her house when the man called. She believed she paid on the 18th August last - James Martin, who resided near the Black Lion Inn, Hartley, said he purchased a firkin of ale on August 25th of last year, of Mr Fraser. He believed the prisoner delivered the ale. He produced the receipt, and said he did not pay for the ale on delivery. He paid for it about 12 days or a week afterwards. He paid the money to prisoner - Susan Simes, wife of Ashton Simes of Fawkham, deposed to purchasing some beer from Messrs Fraser on the 24th December. She paid for the beer within a month; and she paid the money to Mr Day, who gave her a receipt - Mr Donald Fraser stated that in August 1891, no money was paid into them as having been received from Mr Martin by the prisoner. there was no entry in the cash book. the counterloil of the beer sent to Mrs Simes was also produced, and teh cash book showed no entry in respect of the receipt of 4s 3d paid by Mrs Simes. He saw Day before the case came on during the previous week, and he said then that he was quite willing to pay whatever it would cost, if it was £5 or £10 - Mr Gregory: That was after prisoner had been arrested - Cross examined by Mr Gregory: Witness could not say how much money would pass through the prisoner's hands in the course of a month. He gave prisoner no receipts, and so far as he was concerned he was at the mercy of the cash book. Witness admitted that prisoner had to pay Mr Conford every week from the money he collected in, the sum of about 26s or 30s for fodder. He admitted that he said to prisoner, 'Don't get a defence.' - Mr Gregory: What did you mean by such an expression. Why should not the man be defended? - To this witness gave no answer. The witness also admitted that he had accused the prisoner of receiveing £2 19s 6, for which he had not accounted, but it was afterwards shown that this money had been accounted for on September 25th. He admitted also that he had charged prisoner with not accounting for a sovereign. He would not say that he charged him with stealing it. - Mr Gregory: It comes to the same thing, you know. Ist it not a fact that you offered Day four and a half gallons of beer to 'square it'. (laughter) - Witness: not to square it. I believe I gave him four and a half gallons of beer - The Chairman did not think any jury would convict after what had been stated, and Day was discharged amidst applause." "


1892, May 21: Bay Lodge, Ash Road for Sale Gravesend Reporter
""By order of the trustees of the will of Thomas Deane (deceased) Hartley, near the Fawkham Railway Station, Kent. A valuable freehold property, situate on the High Road, leading from Fawkham Station to Ash, Kingsdown and Kemsing.


Messrs Glover & Homewood have received instructions to submit to auction on Wednesday, May 25th, 1892 at the New Falcon Hotel, Gravesend at 3 o'clock precisely, a charmingly situated detached residence, standing in a garden containing 29 perches, on the High Road in the parish of Hartley, Kent, in the occupation of Mr T R Mabe, at £16 per annum; also the Wheelwright's Shop, Lodge, Sawpit and premises adjoining, let on lease to Mr Elvy Cooper, at £10 per annum; the whole possessing a frontage to the high road of 200 feet, and producing a rental of £26 per annum, clear of all rates......."""


1892, May 21: Local News in Brief Gravesend Reporter
(1) Confirmation Service held at Cobham by Bishop of Rochester. Many candidates from Meopham, Shorne, Longfield etc.; (2) William Seager, 17 of Longfield Hill, admitted to Gravesend Hospital with contused hip, caused by cart falling on him.


1892, June 4: Longfield Cricket Club Gravesend Reporter
"Longfield v Gravesend St Andrews CC - this match was played at Longfield, on Saturday last, and resulted in victory for the visitors by 41 runs. The bowling of Mann, 4-9 and Nicholls 4-11 and the batting of F Keating 24, Morris 16, Nicholls 13no and Mann 13, greatly contributed to the result. Blackhall for Longfield, performed the hat trick." List of 'Saints' squad.


1892, June 10: Alleged Theft by a Servant at Swanley Gravesend Standard
Dartford Magistrates: "George Brooks was charged with stealing 12 flowers, of the value of 6 shillings, the property of Henry Caunell, at Swanley, on the 24th and 25th May. Mr Baily of Dartford, prosecuted; Mr Louis Lewis of Bromley, defended the prisoner - It appeared from the evidence that Mr Tait of Hawley Court [should be Hartley Court], had ordered a lot of flowers from the prosecutor, and employed a Mr Wakeman to fetch them in a brake. He sent a man named Alfred Elcombe for the flowers, and it was alleged that the prisoner put up the flowers which he was charged with stealing in the brake with Mr Tait's flowers, receiving 1s 4d for them, and marking the pots in which those flowers were with a cross, Elcombe afterwards disposing of the flowers at Longfield and Hartley - The defence was that the 1s 4d was given to the prisoner, who was a sub-foreman, for 'allowance money' for the men who assisted in loading the brake with flowers were given in accordance with custom and statements in Mr Caunell's printed circulars, when the order was a good one, as was the case in the present instance - Mr Caunell stated that the prisoner had been in his employment for 15 years, and the magistrates asked him if, taking that into consideration, he wished to go on with the case - He declined to withdraw it, and the prisoner refusing to plead guilty, the Magistrates said that they had no option but to send him for trial, which they did, but admitted him to bail, himself in £20 and one surety in £10."


1892, July 9: Longfield Church Gravesend Reporter
Article about Stone Castle mentions that "The property is now vested in the rectors of Crayford, Fawkham, Gravesend, Milton-next-Gravesend, Luddesdown, Ridley, Stone and Swanscombe, with the vicars of Cobham, Northfleet, Plumstead, Dartford, Eltham, Frindsbury, Greenwich, Halling, Higham, Shorne, Horton Kirby and Chatham, in trust under the will of the Rev Dr Thomas Plume, who died archdeacon of Rochester in 1704, for the augmentation of small livings within the diocese, and for other good and charitable purposes connected with the Church of England. The worthy archdeacon lies bured in a simple grave near the chancel wall of Longfield Church."


1892, August 19: Dispute at Longfield Church Gravesend Reporter
"The relationship which exists between the Rector of Longfield and a section of the parishioners is creating some amount of interest. On Tuesday last week a vestry meeting which was to have been held did not come off. The rector would not meet his parishioners. There was a large congregation outside the church and several of the Rector's supporters tried to create a discussion, but the parishioners who called the meeting would not debate matters wth them, and retired. Mr Robson, the peoples' warden, having been prevented from carrying on his duties, had decided to retire at once and hand all monies he has received for the Church to the rector forthwith."


[The unnamed Rector is William Hare Duke (1818-1894), said by Gravesend Reporter (20.1.1894) to have died of a sudden violent internal pain. It is uncertain what the dispute was about, but at this time the Vestry also ran civil matters too.]


1892, August 27: Gravesend and Northfleet School of Science and Art Gravesend Journal
"The Foundation Stone Laying


The interesting function of laying the foundation stone of the new school of Science and Art for Gravesend and Northfleet was performed on Thursday afternoon by the Mayor (GM Arnold esq), under the most favourable conditions. The site of the new building is on part of The Ferns Estate, situate at the south side of St James's Church, and is a most suitable one in every respect, being, as it is, comparatively easy of access to the students of the neighbouring town of Northfleet. The design is at one simple and elegant, and when completed the building promises to be one of the most attractive ornamental features of the town.


Description of the building: The whole building, except the laundry will be heated with hot water from an apparatus in the basement, which will extend under one half of the entrance hall. The front of the buildind and the ends of the main block - or that part of the building which will be more generally seen - will be faced with red bricks from the celebrated Fareham district, and the cornices, string courses, labels and other ornaments will be all in moulded bricks from the well known maker, Mr John Brown. The lower story of the upper side of the north wing will be in stock bricks with red brick dressings, but the upper storey which will be more easily seen above the wall of the church enclosure, will be of red brick, whilst the Mansard roof up to the shoulder will be covered with red Brossley tiles, the rest of this roof being covered with zinc. The other roofs will be covered with greyish blue slates from the Old Delabole quarries of Cornwall and finished with red ridge tiles. We find Mr Avard is obtaining the stock bricks from Fawkham [actually Longfield], the Portland cement from Messrs Masters and Co of Gravesend, and the blue lias lime from Stockton. Messra De Grelle and Houdret are supplying the mosaic floor for the entrance hall...." [goes on to describe internal arrangements and foundation stone ceremony in some length, including various speeches]


[The article says the "stock" bricks from Longfield were not used on the parts that could be readily seen. Today the rear of the building is in brown bricks not the red of the front, presumably these are from Longfield]


1892, October 7: Dartford Chronicle
Estimates of road repairs following damage in June 28th storm: Hartley £23.8.0, Longfield £9.15.0, Ash £12.15.0, Fawkham/Ridley nil


1892, October 15: Gravesend Hospital Gravesend Reporter
Longfield Village Club Box raises £3.8.0 for the Hospital Saturday Fund.


1892, December 31: Funeral of J Caddel Gravesend Reporter
"The remains of the late Mr J S Caddel of King Street were interred, on Wednesday last, in the family vault in Hartley Churchyard, near Longfield. The funeral cortege, consisting of a Washington car and 5 coaches, left Gravesend soon after 12 o'clock, the mourners including Mr J S Caddel jun and his 4 brothers, and other relatives and friends, among whom we noticed Messrs George Rackstraw, Gaynam Rackstraw, Richmond, Gould (Harmer Street), J L Boorman, S Smither and Guy Fletcher, the two last coaches being occupied by the employees of the late Mr Caddel The coffin was made of best oak, polished with brass fittings, and it was literally covered with floral mementoes of esteem and affection. The Rev W W Allen, vicar, read the burial service, while the funeral arrangements were carefully carried out by Messrs J T Cooper & Son, King Street."


[Also reported in the Gravesend Standard of 31.12.1892. It says his full name was John Samuel Caddel and he owned a printing works in Gravesend. The paper also records a letter from the Mayor of Gravesend, Mr Arnold, saying he would have attended if the funeral was in Gravesend, but too many duties otherwise. It mentions the family had a vault in the churchyard]


1893, January 8: Colonel Hartley's Cab Fare People
"Westminster - Carman and Fare: Lieut-col Hartley of the Old Downs, Hartley, near Dartford, summoned a cabdriver, named Henry George Eliven, of Monra Mews, Notting Hill, for misconduct. The prosecutor availed himself of a right which is very rarely exercised, viz that of ordering the cabman who disputed with his fare to drive forthwith to the nearest police court, there to have the immediate adjudication of the sitting magistrate. On the forenoon of the 22nd ult, Col Hartley came from Portobello Road, Notting Hill, to Victoria Station in defendant's cab with 2 packages outside. He gave defendant 2s 6d, and said that he was about to give him another 6d, when the man demanded 4s - complainant asked the cabman to show his badge and book of fares. Eliven had neither, and followed witness into the station, demading his card and abusing him. Mr De Rutzen, taking into account the cabman's sacrifice of time, fined him 5 shillings and costs."


1893, April 8: Restoration of All Saints' Church Maidstone Journal
"The church of All Saints' Hartley, near Fawkham, which is one of the oldest edifices in the county, and with the Manor of Hartley formed part of the large possessios of Odo, Bishop of Bayeux, half brother of William the Conqueror, has recently, through the munificence of the esteemed Rector of the parish, the Rev W W Allen, undergone some very necessary repairs, more particularly to the western end and the spire, which has been rebuilt entirely at the cost of the reverend gentleman. These renovations have been carried out in a very thorough manner under the superintendence of the well known church architect, Mr St Aubyn. At a recent vestry meeting the generous action of the Rev W W Allen was referred to, and on the motion of Mr F D Barnes JP, the present Lord of the Manor of Hartley, the following resolution was passed unanimously - "That this vestry, while congratulating the Rev W W Allen on the completion of the restoration of the parish church, desire to acknowledge and to record the deep and lasting obligtion under which the parish rests to its rector, who, at his sole charge, has rebuilt the western end and the spire of the church and so preserved the ancient fabric from decay and handed it down to posterity unimpaired, as a lasting testimony of his and our love for the church, and for his love for the parish with which he and his father before him have been so long identified."


1893, April 20: Longfield Dispensary Maidstone Journal
Dartford Board of Guardians: "It was decided that it was not necessary for the Medical officer to attend at the Longfield Dispensary on fixed days in future, there having been but 11 patients during the last quarter."


1893, June 1: No Dog Licence Maidstone Journal
Charles james Phillips of the Railway Hotel, Longfield fined 10 shillings for no dog licence.


1893, June 3: Property for Sale at Longfield Gravesend Reporter
"Re Goldfinch, deceased… Important sale of valuable freehold and leasehold properties… Messra Glover and Homewood are favoured with instructions to sell by auction at the New Falcon Hotel, Gravesend on Wednesday June 14th 1893 at 3 o'clock precisely the following...Nos 1,2 & 3 Jubilee Terrace and Paul's Cottage, Whitehill, Longfield, within a few minutes' walk of the Fawkham Station LC&DR let to capital tenants at rents amounting to £47 9s per annum."


1893, July 8: Railway Accident Canterbury Journal
"Faversham - Tradesmen's Benefit Society's Annual Excursion - Narrow Escape on the Return Journey….." 50/60 went by train to Blackfriars then boat to Hampton Court, returning to London to catch midnight train extended especially from Chatham to Faversham.... "All went 'merry as a marriage bell' until on the return journey, the train reached Fawkham, where it ran into a truck laden with ashes, which by some extraordinary mistake, had been left standing on the down main line after the goods train from New Brompton has shunted out traffic. The train was running at a good speed at the time, and as consequences of the collision the buffers of the engine were broken, the obstructing truch was smashed to pieces, and the engine driver (named Head), who fell forward, sustained a severe cut on the face. The passengers felt the concussion, and not a few of them were knocked off their seats, but happily none sustained any injury. The engine being disabled, another had to be procured, and as Head did not feel equal to continue the journey, his place was filled by another driver. The accident occasioned a delay of over 2 hours, and instead of reaching Faversham at 2 o'clock yesterday morning, it was nearly half past four when the party arrived home, congratulating themselves, as we congratulate them, on having experienced a very lucky escape."


1893, August 5: Cycling Accident Gravesend Reporter
"On Sunday, Joseph Kirby, aged 32, living at Hartley, Longfield, was admitted into Gravesend Hospital, suffering from injury to his left eye, caused by falling off a cycle."


1893, August 19: Longfield School Treat Gravesend Reporter
"The second annual treat was given by the Longfield Village club to all the children of the parish and their parents, on Saturday last, in the meadow adjoining 'The Briars' which was kindly lent by the President of the Club, Mr P Waterer. A procession was formed outside the post office, adn headed by the brass band of the boys of the Arethusa, the children marched to the field, the parents bringing up the rear. Never has Longfield had such a gala day. The children, with their many coloured flags adn preceded by the club banner and the band playing a stirring march, made up altogether a very pretty sight. Once in the field, the President welcomed one and all in a few well chosen words, after which the youngsters dispersed to eh many amusements waiting them. Tea time cam in due course, over 400 parents and children partaking in the meal. Then came the sports; flat races for boys and girls, skipping races, sack races for boys, obstacle races and races for the club members, which were very exciting. As the time for departure drew near, teh succesful competitors were presented with their prizes by Miss Easterbrook, after which every child received a toy and a large bun on leaving the field. Three hearty cheers were given to Mr Waterer for his goodness in adding so much to everybody's enjoyment, and then headed once more by the band, the children marched homewards in high spirits, and a thoroughly enjoyable treat was brought to a most successful close."


1893, August 19: Gravesend Should Emulate Longfield Tip Gravesend Reporter
Letter to paper by 'Sanitarian': "Sir - The question of collecting house refuse has perplexed the minds of our local parliament, and stirred up breezes within the walls of the august chamber in which they meet, more, perhaps, than any other domestic matter. Once again the trouble has cropped up, and all the old arguments on the merits or demerits of a daily collection, whether the council should do the work itself, how the refuse should be disposed of, etc, had been trotted out. It is a poor compliment to the officials generally, and to the efficient sanitary inspector in particular, to suggest, as was done at Wednesday's meeting, that the work could not be performed so cheaply, all things considered, by the council, as by a contractor. It is something like teh steam roller bogey. One is practically bought every few years, yet the town does not possess one of its own. Municipal reform and a 'penny wise and pound foolish' policy can never associate amicably.


The report presented to the council last Wednesday by the Sanitary Inspector was a clear, concise statement, and worthy of that officer's tact and enterprise, but I venture to think that he might have looked nearer home for an illustration as to how the council could do its own collecting, and that with a prospect of making the system almost, if not quite, self supporting after the initial outlay.


The overcrowded South London Parish, known as Newington, has solved the problem of dust disposal by utilising it upon the land, which I believe, is what the present Gravesend contractor has done with advantage. Newington saves £3,000 a yar by removing its refuse without the contractor. Of course, there is no comparison between the size of Newington and Gravesend, or the quantity of refuse to be disposed of, so, the overburdened ratepayers of the borough need not build enormous castles in the air. Neither can the 'rule of three' be safely applied. Yet there is no reason why the principle could not be successfully adopted to the Gravesend collection.


At Longfield - 2 miles from Meopham, an exemplary system of dealing with refuse has been established by the Vestry of Newington. Refuse of every kind is sent and treated on the spot by the Vestry's own workmen, whose cottages form part of the Vestry's property. Numerous bays are provided for the reception and treatment of the refuse, which passes through 2 or 3 processes. First it is pitched from the railway sidings into special bays, where it is allowed to be untouched for a period, so that a good deal of the matter rots away. Afterwards it is sifted by the men and women engaged for the purpose, who work on piece. The ashes, manure, and fine dust are placed in separate receptacles, and then disposed of - the ashes to brickmaking firms, and the manure to farmers. There is a large furnace in constant use for the burning of inflammable materials. As a proof of the efficiacy of town refuse for the treatment of land, it may be mentioned that near this depot was a large field which had been barren for years. The owner determined to try the manure, which has become famous among the farmers as the 'Newington Mixture'. He put a thousand tons of it upon the land, and this year he is growing splendid crops. Inasmuch as Gravesend is likely to continue - despite the stigma - the old fashioned system of cesspits, instead of main drainage, there is every facility for our borough to establish a reputation for a 'Gravesend Mixture' of similar character. Yours faithfully, Sanitarian. August 14th 1893."


1893, September 7: Sale of Furniture from Pescott Kent Times
"Pescott, Longfield, near Fawkham, Kent. Franklin Homan is instructed by Mrs Anderson, who is leaving, to sell by auction, on the premises as above, on Wednesday and Thursday, 20th and 21st September, 1893 at 12 for 1 o'clock on each day, the whole of the valuable household furniture and effects, comprising the complete dining room furniture in American walnut by Collinson and Lock, including a set of telescope dining tables with screw movement, 4ft 3 in by 10ft, a 5ft carving table forming a cabinet for the leaves of the dining table, a writing table 5ft by 3ft, a 6ft by 6in pedestal sideboard with raised back, cellarets and plate drawers, 8 massive chairs upholstered in Morocco leather, and 3 book cases, an elegant ebonized and amboyna wood drawing room table, ditto music cabinet, ditto overmantle, lounge, easy chairs, ebonized chairs, Brussels carpets, brass and iron fenders, fire implements, tapestry curtains, cornice poles, Persian and other rugs, valuable Benares brass work, ornamental china and venetian glass oranments, an Oriental china dessert service, dinner and tea services, table glass, plated goods, about 300 vols of books, a few oil paintings and engravings, hall furniture, and carpets, the contents of 7 bedrooms, including a suite of superior American walnut bedroom furniture, iron French bedstead, mattresses and bedding, the kitchen furniture and utensils, modern dairy equipment, quantity of greenhouse plants, and valuable well grown chrysanthemums, garden tools, forcing pits and frames, chestnut pony, village cart and harness, and other effects.


The goods may be viewed the day before, and the morning of the sale, and catalogues had at the Rising Sun, Fawkham; the Lion Hotel, Farningham; the Bull Hotel, Dartford; the New Falcon Hotel, Gravesend; the Bull Hotel, Wrotham; the Cricketers Inn, Meopham; and of Franklin Homan, Auctioneer and Surveyor, 147 Eastgate, Rochester."


1893, October 12: Longfield Roads Maidstone Journal
Dartford Highway Board - "It was decided to improve the highway at Longfield, near the railway bridge, at an estimated cost of about £10."


1893, November 6: Charge of Indecent Assault Maidstone Journal
"Samuel Shiers, a hawker, was charged with indecently assaulting a little girl, named Esther Godden, aged 5 years, at Hartley, on October 24. Mr Ridley appeared to prosecute. Prisoner was caught by a man named Cheeseman with the girl in a field, and behaving in a grossly indecent manner. Another little girl, named Eldridge also saw the assault. Prisoner was committed for trial at the assizes.


Kent and Sussex Courier (24.11.1893): Kent Assizes - Monday - His lordship took his seat at 11 o'clock. Samuel Spicer, 42, labouerer, was indicted for indecently assaulting and ill treating Esther Godden, aged 5 years, at Hartley, on October 24th. Mr Hohler prosecuted. Prisoner practically admitted to the police that he did interfere with the child, but he was in drink; and 2 persons gave evidence as to what they saw prisoner doing in a field near Hartley Church.


The jury returned a verdict of guilty, and his Lordship passed sentence of 3 months' imprisonment, stating that he should have exactly the term he told the police he expected (laughter).


[Esther Godden's family had moved to Hartley Court Cottage, about 1891. The report of the trial shows how such cases were treated in the past. It seems that they are not treated as seriously as they would be today, and there was no attempt to protect the identity of the victim.]


1893, November 17: The Standard
Best - in everloving memory of our dear father George Best, late of Middle Farm, Hartley, near Dartford Kent, who died at Vigo Cottage, Ash, near Wrotham on the 17th November 1883. Gone but not forgotten.


1894, January 20: Obituary of Rev W H Duke Gravesend Reporter
"The Rev William Hare Duke, rector of Longfield, near Gravesend, has died suddenly. He had been in good health, but was all at once seized with violent internal pain. An injection of morphia gave him a few hours' rest. When he awoke, he uttered a fervent prayer for the welfare of the Church and his parishioners and passed peacefully away. He was 76 years of age, and was formerly for many years chaplain of the Chatham Convict prison."


1894, March 19: Melbourne Age
Notice of death on 13.3.1894 of John Treadwell of Maldon, son of late William Treadwell of Fairby Farm, aged 61.


1894, May 10: Weights and Scales Maidstone Journal
Dartford Magistrates: "Henry Tomlin, baker and grocer of Longfield, was summoned for using certain scales which were unjust - Inspector Tucker found a pair of scales (produced) in defendant's bakehouse, which were 1½ ozs unjust - Defendant said these scales were never used for weighing purposes, and pointed out that the Inspector found the rest of his weights and scales in good order. He was fined 10 shillings and costs."


1894, June 2: Sale at North Ash Farm Gravesend Reporter
"Mr William Hodsoll will sell by auction at the Railway Tavern, Fawkham Station, on Friday June 8th, 1894 at 4 for 5pm the luxuriant growing crops of about 62 acres of grass, 5½ acres of peas, 1 acre of cabbage, and 1½ acres of Strawberries on North Ash Farm; and the excellent crop of fruit, comprising about 1 acre redcurrants, ½ acre strawberries, ½ acre raspberries, and ¾ acre plums and apples on Middleton Farm, Longfield, also about 1 acre of cabbage at West Yoke, Ash."


1894, June 20: Judgement Debt Commercial Gazette
"22 May - Elvy Cooper of Hartley, Near Dartford, Blacksmith - £14 6s 7d"


1894, July 28: Cycling Club Gravesend Reporter
"The members and friends of the Swanscombe Cycling Club took their usual Sunday morning's run last week and attended service at Hartley Church. There was a very good muster and it is gratifying to say the numbers increase every week. Members of other clubs and all cycling friends are cordially invited to attend....."


1894, August 4: An Attempted Murder Gravesend Standard
"The usually complacent village of Longfield was thrown into a state of wild excitement, in the early hours of Sunday last, by hearing that a tragedy had been attempted by one of its inhabitants named Ruben Whitehead, otherwise known as 'Tuny', upon his wife by cutting her throat. The assailant is a short elderly man of 62, and worked at the brickfield of Mr Hickmott. He is described as good workman, but of a very curious disposition when in drink. He has a family, most of whom are grown up. His wife is about 20 years his junior, and the husband is reported to have entertained feelings of jealousy towards her for years, although it is said that there was no cause whatever for any such feelings. They were both present together on the previous day at teh Longfield Village Club Feast, afterwards adjourning in company with others to the Railway Tavern, where the woman sang a song. On Saturday night, after returning home, they were heard quarrelling by the neighbours. Nothing more was heard until Sunday morning about 6 o'clock, when a man named James Jenkins, who was at the back of his house, two doors off, heard cries of 'murder'. the son aged 13 came running out, calling, and followed by his mother, who was in her nightdress, which was covered with blood, and had a knife in her hand. Jenkins ran to her, when she cried 'help me'. He helped her into a neighbour's residence and then wen to prisoner's house, and found him dressing, and accused him of cutting his wife's throat. He said 'Yes, I told her I would do it and I have done it,' Jenkins sent prisoner's son to Dr Smith of Farningham, and went himself to Hartley for the police. The knife was a large pocket knife. PC Fuggles, on arrival took charge of the knife, and Dr Smith sewed up the wound, the woman being in a precarious state.


It appears that the woman was asleep at the time of the deed, but was awake some time previous when prisoner was walking about the room. She asked him if he was going to 'do anything'. He said, 'No I would not hurt you, mate.' the woman had been expecting harm from her husband for some time.


The constable went in search of the man in the direction of Longfield Hill, whither he had gone. He was traced to Northumberland Bottom from Meopham, where he eluded his pursuers, and went on into Gravesend, the police losing trace of him. He, however, doubled back to Southfleet, and was outside the Black Lion before opening, when he entered, and remained till closing time. The news had now spread, and the prisoner heard the men in the public house talking of the occurrence, but betrayed no sign of his identity until recognised by someone. After the house was closed the prisoner proceed to Brackfield with others where he was taken by PC Trill of Southfleet, without offering any resistence, the officer having been in quest of him all day.


The officer charged him with attempted murder at Longfield and cautioned and searched him. Prisoner said, 'Allright policeman, I am not ashamed of what I've done,' and added, 'He was the cause of it all, he is a bad man, and my wife a bad woman.'


The prisoner was taken to Dartford, and on the way he asked if his wife was dead. At the station, he clothes were examined. The sleeves of his shirt were saturated with blood. The prisoner said, 'No blood will be found on my coat, for I was not wearing it at the time.' He was taken before the magistrates on Monday at Dartford and remanded till Saturday.


Another account says that the parties retired to rest in the usual way on Saturday night, and about 6 o'clock on Sunday morning, Whitehead, who had not slept well, offered his wife a 'drink of water,' which she accepted. There was nothing in his manner to excite Mrs Whitehead's alarm, and she went to sleep again. The man went outdoors, during which time he was heard to sharpen a clasp knife on the door step, and upon his returning to the bedroom, he drew the blade across the sleeping woman's throat, inflicting a severe wound from the left ear to the larynx. Awakened by the pain, and realising the murderous intentions of her husband, she screamed and made a determined effort to wrest the knife from his hand. Whitehead thereupon seems to have become more infuriated, and dragged his wife from the bed onto the floor, both of which were by this time covered with blood. Another terrible struggle apparently ensued, and then Whitehead, freeing his right hand, stabbed the poor woman through the shoulder and about the head and chest, and then cut her throat again, this time on the right side. In her desperate efforts to save her life, the woman somehow managed to get possession of the knife, and then staggered out of doors, and fell bleeding and insensible at the door of a neighbour, named Swan. Whitehead followed his wife out of the house, and then walked calmly away through the brickfield and into the country, his neighbours, apparently panic stricken at what had taken place, making no serious attempt to detain him. Two medical men were summoned, and although the injured woman received every attention, she still lies in an extremely critical condition. The room in which the struggle took place, presented a shocking appearence, the furniture being in great confusion, and the bed clothing, carpets, and wearing apparel soaked with blood.


The accused formerly lived at Clarke's Yard, North Street, Strood and worked at Temple brickfield. He left this town some 6 or 7 years ago and took up residence at Longfield, being employed by Mr Hickmott, brick manufacturer.


On latest enquiries we find that the women is progressing. She is described as a hard working woman."


[Unlike the other newspaper report, it is clear the Standard actually sent someone to Longfield to speak to the neighbours. Whitstable Times 1.12.1894 gave a brief report of the Assizes trial, he pleaded not guilty to attempted murder but was convicted of grievious bodily harm and got 18 months' hard labour.]


1894, August 4: Meopham Property Sale Gravesend Standard
"Property Sale - Messrs Cobb held an important estate sale at the Mart, Tokenhouse Yard, on Monday afternoon last, and disposed of several properties in Meopham, by order of the trustees under the will of the late Dr Baber. 'The Deodars' was brought in for £3,500; a field of half an acre realised £115, and another 1¾ acres £210. The villa residence known as 'Cherry Hay' was bought for £500, and another residence 'Gloucester Villa' with 1¾ acres of ground, £610. Two cottages, Nos 1 and 2 Sunnyside realised £375, and similar pair, Nos 3 and 4 were bought for £380. A small building used as a Mission Hall fetched the high price of £195."


[In 2019 Cherry Hay went for £800,000, 1 Sunnyside went for £428,000 in 2017]


1894, August 18: Attempted Wife Murder at Longfield Rochester Journal
"At the Dartford Police Court, on Friday afternoon in last week, Reuben Whitehead, an elderly man, was charged, on remand, with attempting to murder his wife, early on the morning of the 29th July, by cutting her throat with a knife at Brickfield Cottages, Longfield.


Julia Adelaide Whitehead, the wife, stated that the prisoner had been strange in his manner towards her for two months, accusing her of conduct of which she was innocent. Shortly after 4 on the morning in question witness gave him a drink of water in bed, and scolded him for spilling some of it. Witness went to sleep again, but was awakened, and found blood flowing from her throat. Prisoner was sitting by the side of the bed with a knife in his hand, and she said 'You are murdering me.' He replied with an oath, 'I mean to.' Witness struggled for her life, prisoner having got her on to the floor, with her head between his knees. He had a knife in his hand, and remained sitting on the side of the bed. Prisoner still tried to cut her throat, and she continued to struggle and scream, getting near the door. She was still on the floor when her two children came, and she got outside. Witness knocked at the window of Mrs Ridge's next door, but nobody answered. then she got to the end house of the row, and Mrs Swan opened the door. When she asked to be atken in as she was being murdered, Mrs Swan refused her admittance. Then she saw a Mr Jenkins, and he took her to Mrs Woolley, who at once let her into her house, where Dr Lace attended her later in the morning. Witness has since received a letter from the prisoner asking her to forgive him.


Cross examined - Prisoner has often asked her to let him go to Dr Lace to see what was the matter with him and the reason she refused was because she thought it would get better.


James Jenkins of Brickfield Cottages, said that he met Mrs Whitehead as described. He saw a gash in her throat, and took a knife from her hand. He then went and saw prisoner, who admitted having cut his wife's throat, saying that he had told her he would do it. Witness sent the eldest boy for the doctor, and prisoner laughed at them, telling the boy to be quick or he would lose his mother. Prisoner afterwards left the house, whereupon witness went for the police.


Dr Lace said that when he got to the house he found the bed clothes soaked in blood. On the left side fo teh neck there was an incised wound 3 in long, and on the right side there was another incised wound 4½ in long, whilst on the right cheek was a scratch. On the right temple was a small wound, and altogether there were 7 wounds on the shoulders from half an inch to an inch long. The wounds in the throat had been caused by a sharp instrument, such as the knife produced, and the smaller wounds looked like stabs with the point. The wound on the right side of the neck was an inch deep, and the one on the left side was only half an inch deep. The woman had lost a lot of blood, and if the wounds had broken out again she might have died. Witness now expected her to recover completely.


PC Trill stated that he arrested prisoner at Southfleet the same afternoon. When charged prisoner said, 'All right, poilceman, I know what I have done. I am not ashamed of it, Bob Peacock has cause all this. He is a bad man, and my wife is a bad woman.' On the way to Dartford, prisoner said, 'It's a wonder the old woman isn't dead.' When witness was examining his shirt, he said 'You'll find no blood on that, as I was not wearing it when I did it.'


Prisoner who had nothing to say was committed for trial."


[Bob Peacock in another report was said to be a young engine driver. At the assizes he was acquitted of attempted murder but found guilty of Grievious Bodily Harm and given 18 months. Paper says he was 62 - Canterbury Journal 1.12.1894]


1894, October 5: Poultry Keeping in Kent Dover Express
County Council have organised lectures by Edward Brown FLS on "poultry keeping for profit." He will be speaking at Longfield on the next 4 Thursdays.


1894, October 26: Servant, Want Position Croydon Oberserver
"Shepherd wants situation at once; experienced in breeding and fattening; can trim, shear, kill and dress sheep; son to work; total abstainers; good character. Address - B Hedges, Hartley, Longfield, Kent."


1894, November 2: The Farmer's Missus's Dog Bromley Times
Dartford Magistrates: "James Woodward, farmer of Longfield was fined 10 shillings and costs for keeping a dog without a licence at Longfield - Defendant said his 'missus' had deceived him as to the age of the dog. It was her dog."


1894, December 13: Hartley Parish Meeting Maidstone Journal
"The parish meeting of Hartley was held on the 4th inst in the school room. The meeting elected Mr F D Barnes, JP of Bickley, the owner of Hartley Manor property, as chairman for the year, and the electors decided they would not apply to the county council for a parish council nor be grouped with any other parish, but would manage their own affairs under the parish meeting clause of the act. The Rev W Whitton Allen MA, rector of Hartley, was nominated as a guardian to represent the parish on the District Council of Dartford."


1895, February 1: Child Maintenance Bexleyheath Observer
"Elizabeth Day of Hartley, summoned Elvey Wiggins (18) of Hartley to show cause etc. Defendant pleaded not guilty. Prosecutrix stated that defendant was receiving £9 a year at the farm where he was employed, in addition to his living in the house. Defendant replied that he only got £7 and his 'keep'. After hearing the evidence the Bench made a order for 2 shillings a week until the child is 16."


1895, February 15: Business for Sale at Longfield Bromley Times
"Absolute Sale - Donald Fraser deceased - Fawkham Kent


Adjacent to the station, 5 miles from Dartford and Gravesend. The goodwill of the steam threshing, milling, coal, beer and general business together with the nearly new steam tackle, threshing machine, chaff cutters, grinding mills, railway and road coal waggons, oil tanks, horses, carts and numerous effects, in one lot, as a going concern. The business was carried on by the late Mr Fraser up to November last, and since then by his representatives.


Lot 2 - the Freehold wellbuilt residence, placed in a good pleasure and walled kitchen garden with greenhouse, together with a range of buildings comprising stables, coachhouses, stores, warehouse, loft, and other business premises; also a valuable fruit plantation and building land, possessing extensive frontage both to public and private roads, and comprising in all about 3 acres. The property offers a rare opportunity to an energetic man to secure, at a moderate price, a business and premises capable of producing a good and increasing income.


Messrs Baxter, Payne & Lepper will sell by action at the Mart, Tokenhouse Yard EC on Wednesday April 3, 1895 at 1 for 2 precisely."


1895, February 28: Obituary: Rev Richard Salwey Maidstone Journal
"We have to record the death, at 94, of the Rev Richard Salwey, one of the oldest clergymen of the Church of England, which took place on the 6th inst. At Stonehouse, Shropshire, where he was living with his son, having previously lived for a few years at Clifton. Richard Salwey, 11th child of Theophilus Richard Salwey and his wife Anna Marie, daughter of Mr Thomas Hill MP of Court on Hill, Salop, was born September 1st 1800, at the Lodge, Ludlow, at which house and others in the neighbourhood the family have been owners of property for some centuries. His education was begun at 'Faithfuls' the well known preparatory school at Warfield Berks, whence he and his 3 brothers went to Eton, where he was for 9 years, leaving as captain of the school. During the well known visit of the 'Allied Sovereigns' to windsor in 1814, young Richard's eldest brother being in Coldstream Guards, quartered there he was invited up to the Castle to meet these renowned warriors, emperors, and kings, at luncheon at the Castle. At the age of 19 Richard Salwey went to Christchurch Oxford, where his schoolboy acquaintance with E B Pusey ripened into a warm friendship, and when, finally Pusey decided to remain on at Oxford, where he felt his duty lay in the strife and disruption of the day, the family living of Fawkham or Facom, Kent was givne by the Puseys to R Salwey. He held this some years, with the living of Ash, Sevenoaks, which was presented him on his marriage with Mary, youngest daughter of Multon Lambarde, of Sevenoaks, the patron of the living. He had 5 children, 2 of whom died young. Captain Salwey, late 26th Cameronians, pre-deceased his father; one daughter, Mrs Howard and one son E R Salwey, living at Stonehouse Court, survive him. The Rev Richard Salwey held the living of Ash for 54 years, but was obliged to give up duty during the last years of his life, owing to blindness, though he retained to a remarkable degree, to the day of his death, his clear intellectual faculties, and interest in every subject, whether religious, political, or social. His joy was great, only a few days before his death, when the favourable result of the Evesham election was told him, for which he had been anxiously waiting and inquiring. His affection for the church made him equally anxious as to the appointment of a new Bishop of Hereford; but that result, which would have satisfied him less well, was only announced on the day of his death. The Rev Richard Salwey was laid to rest in the churchyard of Richard's Castle, Salop, where his family have been buried for many generations. The solemn funeral procession left Woofferton Station in the following order: - An open car containing the coffin, covered with beautiful white wreaths. First mourning coach: Mr Edward R Salwey (son), Mr and Mrs Howard (son in law and daughter), and the Rev J D Stephens. Second mourning coah: Mr H A Salwey (Runnymede Park, Staines), Mr Roger Salwey (Overton), Mr T J Salwey, and Miss Salwey (the Cliff). The carriages of Mr Alfred Salwey, Mr Betton etc followed, as also did several of the tenant farmers of the Salwey Estate. The burial service at the old church was most impressively read by the Rev JD Stephens of St George's, Brandon Hill, Bristol. The coffin, which was of polished oak with massive brass fittings, bore the following inscripton: 'Richard Salwey, priest, born September 1st, 1800, died February 6th 1895.' Many beautiful wreaths and crosses were added to those already placed on the coffin, sent by absent members of the family unable to be present in consequence of the intense severity of the weather. [list of some of the wreaths] At the time of the burial service muffled peals were rung in the church of Ash, and on the previous Sunday also, when Mr Meyers, the schoolmaster, draped the church in black, and the Rev Charles Lambarde made appropriate and feeling reference to the death of the aged late rector, who had been pastor there for 54 years."


[Very interesting it the link to Edward Pusey, one of the towering figures of 19th century Anglicanism, who was much less likely to have so much influence, had he taken up the offer of Fawkham instead of remaining at Oxford. The 'Puseyites' helped to found the High Church tradition of the CofE. Rev Salwey was rector of Fawkham 1829-73 and Ash 1841-1895. This was the end of the era when it was thought acceptable for clergymen to be pluralists, which may be why he gave up the living of Fawkham. The article gives a clue as to his beliefs - the election he was happy about was won by the Conservatives, while the bishop he wouldn't have liked was a low church liberal]


1895, March 2: Marriage of Miss Hartley Rochester Journal
"The marriage of Dr Percival Horton-Smith MA, MB, MRCP, Fellow of St John's College, Cambridge, eldest son of Richard Horton-Smith QC of 53 Queen's Gardens, Hyde Park, W, and Miss Lucy Josephine Hartley, only daughter of Lieut-Colonel J Hartley DL, JP, LLD of the The Old Downs, Hartley, took place at the parish church of Hartley on the 23rd February. The Rev W Whitton Allen officiated, assisted by the Rev SB Browne, rector of Plumtree, Nottingham, godfather of the bridegroom, and the Rev Salter Hartley, brother of the bride. The hymns sung during the service were 'Thine for ever God of love', and 'The Voice that Breaketh o'er Eden'. The bride, who was given away by her father, was dressed in a gown of ivory white satin adorned with rich Honiton lace (the gift of her mother) on the full square train, the lace being draped with sprays of orange blossom in the front. She carried a beautiful bouquet of white roses and lillies of the valley, the gift of the bridegroom. The bridesmaids were Miss Hartley, cousin of the bride, the Misses Horton-Smith, sisters of the bridegroom, and the Misses Meadows-White, cousins of the bridegroom. They wore dresses of eau-de-nil crepon with slashings of pale pink silk and coffee coloured quipure lace, large white straw hats, trimmed with white ostrich tips and lace. They carried bouquets of lillies of the valley and asparagus fern, and wore gold knot broaches, the gift of the bridegroom. The best man was Lionel Horton-Smith, brother of the bridegroom. After the ceremony Colonel and Mrs Hartley received the wedding party and other guests at their house, and in the course of the afternoon Dr and Mrs Percival Horton-Smith left for Dover en route for Vienna."


1895, March 15: Horse for Sale The Globe
"Chestnut mare, 15-1 for sale, in consequence of owner's son being too heavy to ride her; very stylish action, perfect manners, perfect ladies park hack very showy, free from vice; quite sound; goes well in tandem; quiet ride and drive. Please write for appointment to 'owner', Billet Farm, Ash, Wrotham, Kent."


1895, May 17: A Lesson to Drivers Bromley Times
"George Winkworth, a driver of a farm van belonging to Mr Pink, of Kingsdown, was summoned by the police for failing to have proper control of the horse and van which he was driving on April 27th. Instructing Constable Ellis (Hartley) stated the facts, and from his evidence it transpired that the defendant was asleep, and that he had been drinking, although he was not really drunk. Defendant allowed his van to be drawn upon the footpath, and slight damage was done ot property in the vicinity. The justices inflicted a fine of 10 shillings and the costs 3s 6d, or in default seven days' hard labour. Accused said he was very sorry for what had occurred, and paid part of the fine, a week being allowed for the payment of the balance."


1895, June 8: The Dean at Longfield Rochester Journal
"On Tuesday in last week the ancient parish church of St Mary Magdalene, Longfield, was the scene of an interesting ceremony, in the dedication of the new organ by the Very Reverend SR Hole, Dean of Rochester, on behalf of the Bishop of the Diocese. The officiating clergy also included the Revs AJW Thorndike, Edward Smith (rector), Dr Robins (Gillingham), Whitton Allen (Hartley), L Lewis (Meopham), Warland and GW Bancks. The sacred edifice was well filled by the congregation. The Rev AJW Thorndike intoned the service, the Revs L Lewis and Whitton Allen reading the lessons. Dean Hole preached a very impressive sermon from the text 'Neither will I offer to the Lord my God of that which costs me nothing,' 2 Samuel 24.24, and in the course of his remarks referred to that pleasing ceremony. He then spoke of the spiritual improvement of the country. Half a century agoa foreigner who visited this country, wrote his impressions of it, and said that what pleased him most was to see the spire of God's house rising in every city, town and village, but when he got inside of what should have been the most beautiful house in the place he found it to be the most dreary and deserted of all. The church was locked up from Sunday to Sunday, and the parson lived far away from his congregation. That was the time when the shepherds ate of the fat, and clothed themselves of the wool, but left the flock to take care of themselves. But if that stranger was to revisit the country now, he would find that a change had been effected. Churches and churchyards had been opened and beautified, and the shepherds would be found tending their sheep. Having referred to the fable fo the Palace of Truth, where everyone had to speak the truth whether they wanted to or not, he asked them to suppose that the Saviour was again on earth, and standing at the door of the house of God, and asking those who came in, 'Friend, wherefore art thou come?' What would be their answer? Some would have to say, 'I come because my father and mother came,' some, 'Because my best customers come,' others, 'To hear the music,' and perhaps some, 'To hear the sermon.' It was a good thing to come and hear the word of God preached, but a sermon was only like a prescription, telling them the way but not taking them, to heaven. Some would have a far better reason, and would say, 'I come to pray.' They were sent into this world to prepare themselves for heaven. If they did not praise the Lord on earth, how could they expect to sing his praises in heaven? There was a good sermon in the story of the poor negro slave who, when told taht his master was dead, said he wished he could hope he was gone to heaven. On being asked why, he replied, 'I never knew him speak about it or prepare for it as he would any other journey. I never saw him in the house of God, or at the Holy Communion, or even with a Bible in his hand. I pray that God may be more merciful to him than he ever was to me.' They prayed or ought to constantly, 'Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven.' How was it done there? Joyfully, eagerly and reverently. Everything that was done for God, should be done in that spirit. What they gave should be given cheerfully. St Ambrose hasd said, 'God sees not only what you give, but what you keep back.' In conclusion, the reverend gentleman exhorted them to have faith in the Heavenly Father, and to remember that all they could hold in their cold dead hands would be what they had given away. Mr J Hopkins (organist of Rochester Cathedral) officiated at the new organ, and at the conclusion of the service gave a very pleasing organ recital, during which the capacities of the instrument were shown to great advantage. The organ, which is a second hand two manual instrument, has been provided by voluntary contributios, in place of the harmonium previously used, and has been entirely reconstructed and renovated for its present position."


1895, June 28: The Effects of Drink Bexleyheath Observer
"Maud Wells, well known to the police at Gravesend and Dartford, was charged with being drunk and disorderly at Hartley on the 24th last. PC Ellis proved the case.


Prisoner complained in an excited way of the Constable using excessive and unnecessary violence to her, and she showed the Magistrates bruises which she alleged to have been done by the officer. She then left the box and wanted to show the Magistrates some bruises she had on her legs. Mr Tasker: I don't want to see them. Prisoner said when she was brought into court the constable beat her with a stick. She called as a witness George Lane, a man she had been living with for the past 9 years, and he said he left prisoner at 2 o'clock on Monday and she had no bruises about her at all. Supt Webster gave the woman a very indifferent character, saying both Lane and herself were very violent characters, and the Magistrates after showing great patience with the woman, fined her 10 shillings and 8 shillings costs, or in default a month in prison."


1895, June 29: Adder at Longfield Hill Gravesend Reporter
Local farmer kills 5 foot long adder snake at Longfield Hill.


1895, September 6: Cesspool Emptying at Hartley Bexleyheath Observer
Dartford rural District Council: "Mr F D Barnes, chairman of the Hartley Parish Meeting, who recently protested against the large scheme of scavenging [rubbish collection] and cesspool cleansing which the counicl had decided to carry out, now wrote, having received a reply to his former letter, to say that he thought it right to inform the council that he had addressed a letter to the Local Government Board protesting against the scheme which was another unjust burden on agriculture that it would be a scandal to saddle a parish like Hartley with the expense of such a system.


the chairman: I don't think any of us have two opinions over the matter. The Local Government Board has determined that we shall carry out the work, and we are simply helpless."


1895, September 27: Longfield Tip Dover Express
Dover Council consider whether to send rubbish to Longfield by rail. Newington Vestry said they would be willing to take it if the council paid carriage and 9d per ton for unloading. They decided however to ditch the heavier material into the sea instead.


1895, October 5: Theft at Meopham Rochester Journal
Rochester Magistrates: "He did it: Thomas George Martin, 17 of Hartley, was charged with stealing a tweed jacket and a pruning knife, value 18s, the property of Thomas Carter, at Meopham, on the 16th inst - Thomas Carter, gardener to Sir Sidney Waterlow, siad the jacket and knife were stolen from his employer's plantation - John Spark, a gardener of Addington, deposed that on the 17th inst, prisoner offered him the knife produced for 1s. Witness eventually gave him 9d for it. Prisoner was a stranger to witness, and said he was hard up - PC Summers deposed that from information received and enquires he had made, he went to prisoner's father's house at Hartley Green. He saw prisoner, and said to him 'Where is the coat you were wearing at Vigo a few days ago?' Prisoner said 'In the oven,' and went to the oven and got it. In reply to other questions, prisoner said 'I didn't steal it, I bought it from a man on the road to Town Malling. I found a knife in the pocket, and sold it at Addington.' Prisoner elected to be dealt with summarily and pleaded guilty - Superintendent Lacy said they knew nothing of prisoner, but had himself told them he had had 2 months' at Dartford. They had not time to verify this statement. The magistrates sentenced prisoner to 1 month's hard labour."


1895, November 14: Dog Licence not Transferrable Maidstone Journal
Malling Magistrates: "Edward Bignell was summoned for keeping a dog without a licence on September 26th - IC Trill deposed to seeing defendant, a dealer, outside of the Borough Green Hotel, Wrotham. He had with him a dog, which had bitten another person, but he refused to show witness the licence, which, however, he said he had. PC Hogwood said defendant showed him a licence taken out in the name of Samuel Cox. Subsequently witness found out that defendant's name was Bignell - Samuel Cox, living at Hartley Green, deposed to selling the dog in question to defendant, and also giving him the licence - Bignell who said he thought Cox's licence would do for him as well, being in respect of the same dog, was let off on paying the costs 13s 6d."


1895, December 6: Threats at Longfield Bromley Times
Dartford Magistrates: "A young Longfield woman, named Briggs, obtained an order against a man with whom she had for a short time lived, named Pearce Edmeads, also of Longfield, calling upon him to find 2 sureties for his good behaviour towards the complainant, who said he had abused and threatened her, and all her Majesty's subjects for 6 months."


1895, December 27: A Sleepy Driver Bexleyheath Observer
"Albert Wooding of Hartley Bottom, pleaded guilty to being asleep whilst in charge of a horse and van on West Hill, Dartford, on December 10th."


1896, February 21: Dog Muzzling Order Bromley Times
Percival Geary of Hillside House, Fawkham fined 7s 6d for contravention of dog muzzling order.


1896, February 24: Inquest on Margaret Crawley Dartford Chronicle
Sad Burning Fatality - The Inquest


"At the Dartford Union Workhouse on Friday afternoon, Mr E N Wood held an inquest, touching the death of a woman named Margaret Crawley, of no fixed abode, which occurred at the Dartford Union Infirmary, on Tuesday last. Mr J Snell was chosen as foreman of the jury.


Dennis Mc Carthy, a labourer, residing at Longfield said he had known deceased for 6 or 7 years. He believed she had had a husband, but whether he was living or not he could not say. Deceased came to his place about quarter to ten on Thursday evening, 5th inst, and made an enquiry for a woman, and he said she did not live there; she asked witness to lend her a jacket to keep her warm. She said she had burnt all her clothing with the exception of her chemise and skirt. He lent her a jacket and she went away to get a policeman to take her to Dartford. Deceased looked black.


Cross-examined by Mr Snell: She lived in a chalk pit generally, but no-one had lived with her to his knowledge.


PC Alfred Kemsley, stationed at Southfleet said about 10pm on the 5th he was near the Green Man, at Longfield Hill, and saw deceased go the door of the public house; he saw that she had only a chemise on and a jacket, very much burnt. He got some lard and dressed her wounds and conveyed her to Dartford Workhouse. He examined the chalk hole where the deceased had been living. He found a fire and fragment of a tent. She told him she was drying her clothing, when it caught fire. He had seen deceased at Hartley at about 10 o'clock in the morning, and she seemed in her usual health and sober. The chalk pit was on Mr Allen's land.


Cross-examined: He had pulled the tent down, which was made of old rags and other things, about a fortnight previous.


Dr Richmond R Allen said he saw deceased immediately after her admission on the early morning of the 6th inst. She was suffering from shock and burns on the hands and right leg. She was conscious. She stated that she was drying her clothes and they caught fire. She did fairly well under his treatment until the 15th, when congestion of the lungs set in and finally she died of inflammation of the lungs on the 17th.


The coroner said the case showed a sad state of affairs. There was no doubt he thought, the unfortunate woman was drying her clothes in the tent, when they caught alight and had since died. Since her admission to the Workhouse Infirmary, she seemed to have received every possible care and attention.


The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical evidence."


1896, April 2: Hartley Parish Meeting Maidstone Journal
"The annual parish meeting was held on Thursday in the schoolroom, and Mr Frederick Dallas Barnes JP of Hartley Manor, was re-elected chairmman for the ensuing year. Mr Wansbury and Mr Mabe were re-elected overseers, Mr Bance being appointed to the office of assistant overseer. The meeting was informed that the village club which had been established was evidently supplying what had been felt to be a want, no less than 60 members having already joined. The chairman of the meeting also informed those present of the correspondence which had passed with the Dartford Rural District Council as directed at the last meeting, protesting in the name of the parish against the action of the District Council in swamping hartley parish in their scheme for scavenging and rate collecting. The meeting continued of the opinion that the action taken by the District Council in both these matters was an attempt to throw further burdens on purely agricultural land for the benefit of populous districts, and was contrary to the spirit of the Parish Councils Act. A vote of thanks to the chairman and overseers concluded the meeting."


1896, June 5: Maintenance Order Bromley Times
Dartford Magistrates: "Reuben Whitehead, of Longfield, who had been convicted at Maidstone for a murderous assault upon his wife, was now summoned to shew cause why he should not contribute towards the maintenance of his wife under a separation order. From the evidence of the wife it transpired that her husband had just suffered 18 months' imprisonment for having attempted to take her life by cutting her throat. The accused said he was 64, and he could not get any work to do, and could not afford to keep his wife. - Mr Elgood said the man ought to be very glad that his wife was alive that day - The wife was granted a separation, and the husband was ordered to pay her 2s 6d a week, together with costs."


1896, July 14: Dartford Chronicle
Dartford Rural district Council accounts y/e 30.9.1895. Hartley parish pays £47.15.2 for highways, Longfield £69.16.7


1896, July 18: Obituary of Adam Tait Sheffield Daily Telegraph
"Mr Adam Tait, one of the managing directors of the Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company, died suddenly on Sunday last at La Comballaz, Switzerland. He entered the company's service in 1864, when he was attached to their Bombay establishment. After serving in several responsible offices in the East, he joined the London management in 1880, and last year became a managing director. He was 59 years of age."


[Adam Tait was the tenant of Hartley Court. His fellow directors paid for the east window of All Saints Church in his memory (see tablet in church).]


1896, July 25: Election at Fawkham The Clarion
"I learn that the parishes of Horton Kirby and Fawkham are at present without Guardians, and an election will take place in each of those parishes shortly. If there are any Socialists in the neighbourhood will they communicate with Mr A J Newton, Louise Cottage, Erith? In her new work as Poor Law Guardian, Mrs Newton is having a fight with the powers that be; but she is gaining ground all the time. At the last meeting she moved tha tthe age inmates be allowed out every fine day, but did not even get a seconder. So the poor old honest paupers are prisoners. Until a month ago, ther was not even a bath supplied for the women. They had to wash in tin pails. Now an iron bath has been put into an existing cistern, and the women have to clamber first into the cistern and then into the bath, the hot water having to be brought in pailfuls a distance of 50 yards. Mrs Newton further moved that butter be substitued for the 5½d margarine. This was seconded but not carried. We want more women Socialist Guardians. Will sisters watch for chances of the thin end of the wedge?"


[The Clarion was a Socialist newspaper but not always agreeing with Labour policy, for example the paper supported the Boer War and opposed votes for women]


1896, September 18: Barnes Family of Hartley Manor Bromley Times
"Mr F D Barnes JP has let Boughton, Bickley to Mr Hays Hammond of South Africa, for the winter months and until April. Mr Barnes and family have just returned from Scotland, and are spending the early autumn at Hartley Manor, Longfield, Kent."


1896, September 19: Theft at Longfield Gravesend Reporter
Dartford Magistrates: "At Dartford Police Court on Saturday, Thomas Martin (19), labourer, was charged with stealing, on the 4th September, a pair of leatehr reins, value 6s, the property of the Kent Road Maintenance Company, at Longfield - John Holland, a carman in the employ of the Company, said he missed the reins on the 4th inst. He had left them on a care in the earlier part of the day - Benjamin Debnam, 16 New Street, Gravesend, a fruiterer, said he saw accused offering he reins for sale. Witness offered 6d and the accused accepted it. Witness put the reins in his stable - The Betsam police constable, who had charge of the case, said on the 7th he proceeded to Gravesend, and as the result of enquiries made arrested Martin at Betsam that night, his father's home, where he was in bed. He then denied he had taken the reins, but on coming out of the house, however, he said, 'I wish I had not seen the reins.' Prisoner was committed to take his trial at the next Quarter Sessions. Martin said 'It's my head which causes me to get into these troubles. I have at times rheumatic fits which prevent me from getting on with my work. I am sorry that I have done this.'


[At the Quarter Sessions he was sentenced to 3 months' hard labour, "Dr Hoar, prison surgeon said prisoner had a feeble mind", Maidstone Journal 29.10.1896]


1896, September 25: Hartley Court to Let Bromley Times
"To be let - unfurnished with immediate possession. Hartley Court, situate close to Hartley Church, containing 2 reception rooms, 7 bedrooms, dressing rooms and bathroom, good domestic offices, stabling, conservatory and about 1½ acres of garden and pleasure grounds; the whole in excellent order; recently occupied by the late A Tait esq. For particulars etc, apply to F D Barnes esq, 122 Leadenhall Street EC."


1896, October 20: After the Conies Dartford Chronicle
"Dartford Petty Sessions. Saturday - Before Mr F Talbot Tasker (in the chair) and Mr H J Bristow with Mr J C Hayward (Clerk)


Pierce Edmeades, a labourer, of no fixed abode, was summoned for trespassing in search of conies on October 3rd, on and in the occupation of Mr Frederick Allen at Hartley. George Cheeseman, in the employ of Mr Barnes, deposed to finding a number of snares in Mr Allen's field at Hartley, on the 2nd October. He concealed himself in the vicinity on the 3rd October, and he saw defendant take possession of the snares. Inspector Sharp said there were a number of previous conviciions against defendant for drink and disorderly conduct. Defendant, who did not appear, was fined 40 shillings or 14 days with hard labour. Inspector Sharp said that in this case he should ask for a commitment order, which the justices accordingly granted."


1897, January 13: Horsetralia Broad Arrow Standard (Western Australia)
"Daimio, the Australian racehorse, ran 3rd in the Weald Steeplechase at Longfield, Kent"


1897, April 24: Hartley Manor, for sale Sporting Gazette
"Kent: The Hartley Manor Estate, in the parishes of Hartley, Ash and Longfield, only 23 miles from London, an important freehold manorial, sporting and residential property of about 579a 3r 16p, occupying a bracing and very healthy situation (the principal portions having an altitude varying from 300ft to 400ft above sea level), about a mile from Fawkham Station on the main line of the London Chatham and Dover Railway, whence London can be reached in 50 minutes, and about 6 miles from Gravesend and Dartford. It has an attractive well wooded and boldly undulating surface, and includes 2 comfortable residences, the principal one is very pleasantly situate about the centre of the estate, and is approached by a long carriage drive; it has an almost due south aspect, with a pretty home view, and contains 10 bedrooms, boxroom, bathroom, entrance hall, and drawing room opening to conservatory and verandah (the latter 47ft long), dining room, library, offices and cellarage. On the south and east sides of the house are pleasure grounds and tennis lawns, also a well stocked kitchen garden; stabling for 4 horses, 2 coach house, and a captial range of farm buildings. The second house, known as Hartley Court, is close to All Saints' Church, and contains 7 bed and dressing rooms, boxroom, 3 reception rooms, and offices; pleasure and kitchen gardens, span roof and lean to greenhouses, modern stabling for 3 horses, coach house, and an ample homestead. There are also off farm buildings, a farmhouse at Hartley Bottom, and 13 cottages. The land lies almost entirely within a ring fence, it is divided into numerous large enclosures of pasture and arable, and a considerable portion is planted with fruit trees. The woods are extensive and wewll stocked, and are admirably placed for rearing a large head of game. The estate has been well farmed by the owner for many years past, and very large amounts have been spent in improvements in buildings, fruit planting etc. With the exception of about 7 acres, the whole has been kept in hand, and will be sold with possession. There are beds of gravel, excellent brick earth, chalk, and flints underlying the property, which has the advantage of a private siding at Longfield Hill, on the LC & DR. The Manor, or reputed manor of Hartley, and the Advowson of the Rectory of All Saints', Hartley (an ancient and interesting church), with the next and perpetual right of presentation, is included in the sale. The West Kent Fox Hounds and Mid Kent Stag Hounds hunt the district.


Messrs Debenham, Tewson, Farmer and Bridgewater will sell the above described freehold manorial, sporting and residential property at the Mart, on Thursday, May 27th, at 2 - particulars of Messrs Freshfields & Williams, solicitors, 5 Bank Buildings, Lothbury; and of the auctioneers, 80 Cheapside."


1897, July 2: Buckingham Palace Garden Party Bromley Times
"Among the guests received by the Queen at the garden party at Buckingham Palace, on Monday last, we notice the names of Mr and Mrs FD Barnes, Miss Barnes and Miss Dora Mary Barnes, of Hartley Manor."


1897, July 16: Cleared of drunkenness charge Bromley Times
"Frederick Hollands and George Hollands, of fawkham, were summonsed for being drunk and disorderly at Fawkham on the 30th June. Instructing Constable Wills stated on the day named he saw the defendants drunk on Fawkham Green, and behaving in a disorderly manner. PC Howell corroborated. John Mills of Fawkham, a labourer, gave evidence for the defence, and said that the defendants were in the Rising Sun with him during the evening. The defendant Frederick left about a quarter to ten, and he was then quite sober. The defendant George had been drinking with witness. The case was dismissed."


1897, July 16: Room to Let Woolwich Herald
"Pretty country home, with its comforts and freedom, offered to two or three paying guests, by lady, genial, refined etc; musician; healthy place; good business trains; close to rail, PO, Church; cycles taken; terms 1 guinea or sharing nice bedroom £1. 'Mistress', Court Villa, Longfield."


1897, August 21: Newington's Country Depots - Annual Inspection South London Mail
"Several members of the Newington Vestry, accompanied by visitors interested in affairs sanitary, on Saturday paid a visit of inspection to the country depots constituting portions of the scheme in operation for the disposal of sewage of theat parish…. (list of many members of the party)... A start was made from the Elephant and Castle Sation at 18 minutes past 10 o'clock, Meopham, the site of the first of the series of three depots, being reached shortly after 11. Here as elsewhere during the day, Mr Dunham supplied the curious investigator with a full explanation of the treatment of sewage, which furnishes the grateful Kentish farmer with the far famed fertilising 'Newington Mixture.'..... At noon the special steamed out of the Meopham siding, and drew up at Longfield, where matters are, confessedly, not so satisfactory as they might be. Official friction is the avowed cause of this undesirable condition of affairs. The squalor observable among the employees here was heartbreaking. It assugaed one's indignation somewhat, however, to learn that the Vestry intend to build cottages almost immediately, wherein to house these desperately dirty and seemingly hopeless men, women and children. Anything more hideously repulsive than their lives beneath the unventilated fly-plagued arches of the Longifeld siding is almost impossible to conceive......"


1897, September 14: Missing Friends Sydney Evening News (Australia)
"The following persons who left the UK for Australia, or were last heard of in these colonies, are enquired for in 'Lloyd's Weekly London Newspaper' of July 18, the editors of which have the addresses of the inquirers….


Blackman (John), left Longfield, Kent, 60 years ago for New South Wales. Sister Harriet asks."


1898, April 1: Hartley Parish Meeting Bromley Times
"At the Hartley Parish meeting on the 19th inst, the chairman, Mr F D Barnes Jp tendered his resignation and Mr A Dobbs of Hartley Manor, was elected to his place. Mr Barnes is going to leave Hartley as a permanent residence, only retaining Hartley Court as a shooting box. Messrs C Wansbury and T Mabe were reelected overseers for the coming year."


1898, July 23: Obituary of Joseph Hartley Whitstable Times
"The death is announced of Lieut-Colonel Joseph Hartley LLD, DL, JP of the Old Downs, Hartley. In the north he was best known from his long connection with the old 4th West York Militia (now the Prince of Wales' Own West Yorkshire Regiment),a dn until the time of his death was chairman of Hartley, Green & Co Ltd of Leeds. During his residence in Yorkshire he was an active member of the West Riding Bench of magistrate, and was a deputy-Lieutenant of the county. He was also a Jp for the cuonty of Kent. Colonel Hartley, who had been in failing health since the death of his wife will be much missed in the social life of Rochester and the neighbourhood."


1898, December 23: House to Let at Longfield Kent & Sussex Courier
"Pretty house to let, well furnished, 4 bed, 2 reception, roomy hall, good kitchen and cooking range. Two minutes of Post Office, church, shops, station, main line LCD, business trains, 45 minutes City. Excellent situation, water, drainage. Long garden. £1 weekly (or arrangement) - Occupier, Court Villa, Longfield, Kent."


1898, December 31: Traction Engines at Hartley Kentish Independent
"Mr Hookine, surveyor to the Dartford Rural Council, in a report to that body, summarises the diversified views of representatives of various parishes in his district, with regard to the question of restriction or prohibition as follows: Hartley - number of trucks should be restricted on the road between Longfield and Ash. Longfield - no restrictions required as long as the engine owners are made to pay for their extraordinary traffic. Ridley - Engine traffic should be probibited on the road leading from Clads House Cottage towards Meopham main road..... The District Council on Tuesday adopted Mr Hookins' report with very slight amendment, and by so doing approved of a suggestion put forward by the surveyor that when loaded with more than 6 tons weight each, only 2 trucks should be allowed to one engine, 'as the angles of the cross-bars on the driving wheels, in getting their grip on the hills, even on slight inclines, do immense damage to the macadam, both in crushing and loosening it.'"


1899, February 24: Interesting Anniversary Brockley News
"On the 14th, Mr and Mrs James Thomas Smith, of Fairby House, Eltham Road, celebrated the 67th anniversary of their wedding. The were married at St Alphege, Greenwich on Feb 14th, 1832 by the Rev J S Masters. The clergyman who officiated, Mr Masters, died a little more than 2 years ago, at Blackheath. He resided at one time at Vansittart House, Greenwich Road, and at the time of his death was vicar of Christchurch, Shooters' Hill. He was 97 years of age."


1899, June 23: Royal Agricultural Show Sevenoaks Chronicle
This is the 61st year of the show and it is being held at Maidstone this year. Local exhibitors included


G Day (Ash) - Poultry 6, Honey 2
CJG Hulkes (Ash) - Sheep 4
Mrs Longhurst (Longfield) - Honey 12
JH Seabrook (Longfield) - Honey 4


Mrs Longhurst won 2 firsts, 2 seconds, 2 thirds and 1 fourth with her hive and honey exhibits.


1899, July 29: The Excessive Heat Gravesend Reporter
Gravesend Coroner's Court: "The first had reference to the death of George Alexander Higgs of 34 New Street, Gravesend, whose death took place about noon on Wednesday, after a short illness. Annie Laura Higgs, identified the body as that of her husband, who was 33 years of age and was a mineral water traveller in the employ of Mr J Nash, Harmer Street, Gravesend. He left home just after one on Tuesday to go back to work, also telling her he was going to [West] Kingsdown. He was in his usual good health. About a quarter to twelve that night hew was brought home by Herbert Ennis, the lad who travelled with him, and appeared unconscious. Ennis told her that deceased fell of the van whilst coming from Hartley and that the wheel went over him. She did not send for a doctor then, thinking that he had been drinking. The next morning he was still unconscious, so she sent fro Dr Bryden, that being about 10.30 and death took place while he was there. - Herbert Ennis, aged 15 of 35 New Street, and employed by Mr Nash, deposed to accompanying deceased to Kingsdown in a four wheel van. They completed the round and left Stansted at 10.15pm for home. He did not consider him in drink. When nearling the top of the hill at Hartley Bottom witness asked him if he should 'skid' the wheel so as to give the horses a 'blow', but deceased did not answer. The wheels then seemed to pull on to the bank, and deceased and two boxes of empties fell off. He thought the two off wheels went over his body. Hearing the boxes fall, teh horses started running away, but witness stopped them and then went back to him. He shook him and called him, but he appeared unconscious. Witness got him into the van with the help of a man who happened to pass, and drove him home. Witness considered he fell through having a fit. - Dr RJ Bryden, of Harmer Street, stated that on being called he carefully exaimined deceased's head, but could find no bruise or swelling whatever, and came to teh conclusion that he was suffering from apoplexy. Witness sent for some ice, but just as that arrived, he breathed his last. Witness made a post mortem examiniation, and found a large bruise on the middle part of the upper left arm, one on the left hip and on the inner side of the left knee, but none on the head. On the right side of the brain there was a very large clot of blood, and in his opinion death was caused by apoplexy, due most probably to the excessive heat. When the blood vessel gave way he no doubt became faint and fell off the van. - The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the medical testimony."


1899, July 29: Garden Fete at Longfield Gravesend Reporter
"Last year, a teachers' house was built at Longfield, adjoining the voluntary schools there. The cost of the structure was £300, and of this sum £150 had been raised previous to last week. With the idea of wiping off a portion of the remaining debt, a garden fete took place at the Longfield Rectory (the residence of Rev Edward Smith) last Saturday afternoon. Nestly amongst stately trees and surrounded by charming grounds, the Rectory is an ideal place for holding an event of this description. The lawn situated at the rear of the house presented a picturesque appearence, it being fringed with gaily coloured stalls. Mrs and Miss Hickmott, assisted by numerous helpers, dispensed refreshments from a buffet which was artisticly draped with the national colours, having as a centre piece a shield bearing a picture of the Queen. Teh fancy needlework stall resembled a miniature rainbow, as various and gorgeous were the colours of the articles displayed for sale adn teh trappings on the stall. Mrs Smith and the Misses Hassell, Seabrook and Crook were the presiding ladies here. Mrs Pollock Sheilds and Mrs Newcomb had charge of the country produce stall, which was laden with tasty fruits and draped with art muslin. the pottery stall, containing articles of dainty war, besides two magnificent standard lamps, with silken shades, was under the supervision of Mrs Hildebrand, Mrs Fraser and Miss Buttress. Amber art muslin, over which strpays of ivy were trailed, adorned the front of the stall on which those articles so dear to the hearts of children - toys and sweets were displayed; the Misses Grain and Miss Allen officiated here. Teh stall from which plain needlework was distributed was under the care of Mrs Cromar and Miss Corby. Those desiring their photographs taken placed themselves in the capable hands of Mr J H Seabrooke, whilst an admirable exhibition of children's drill was superintended by Miss Crook. In addition to the before mentioned stalls, there wre also the following amusements: Aunt Sally, Cocoa Nut shies, shooting gallery, and hat trimming and washing competition. These wer attended by the following members of the committee: Messrs Allchin, Newcombe, JA and H Hickmott, Longstreet, Robson, Gilham, Collins, Tomlin, Hyde, Woodward, G Lynds, Carey, Crook, Wymark and Cromar. Teh fete was opens shortly after 3 o'clock, delightful weather favouring the occasion. The Rev Edward Smith briefly explained the object of the fete, and introduced Mrs Colyer-Ferguson of Wombwell Hall, to the company. This lady (who was acccompanied by her husband T C Colyer-Ferguson), in a few appropriate remarks declared the fete open, and wished it every success, a sentiment which, she was sure, would be echoed by all present, who would do their utmost to bring about its accomplishment - In the absence of the Archdeacon of Rochester (who was called away to a presssing engagement in London), the Rev WH Bowers, of St Barnabas Gillingham, moved a hearty vote of thanks to Mrs Colyer-Ferguson, which was enthusiastically accorded and breifly acknowledged. Business then commenced, and waa carried on brisly until the stalls were despoiled of most of their contents. A portion of the Higham Brass Bankd (Mr F Levy, bandmaster) greatly added to the enjoyment of the proceedings by the performance of programme of instrumental music. Teh amusements attracted constant attention, and kept those who so kindly took charge fully employed. Teh hat trimming may be specialy mentioned as having afforded much amusement to the ladies, who watched the gentlmen trim each his hat with varying taste. It was only with the advent of dusk that the ground was cleared. All who attended seemed well please with their afternoon and evening's enjoyment. The financial result was very satisfactory. After paying all expenses, it is estimated that a sum of between £20 and £25 will be hande over to the treasurer of th schoolhouse building fund, Mr J J Hickmott jun of the Court."


1899, August 12: Forge Cottage and others for sale Gravesend Standard
"Hartley, Kent, about 1 mile from Fawkham Station, on the LC&D Railway. Messrs Dann & Lucas have received instructions to sell by auction on Tuesday the 22nd day of August 1899 at 4 o'clock precisely, at the Auction Room, 3 Spital Street, Dartford, in lots, freehold properties, comprising:


2 timber built cottages, producing a rental of £14 6s per annum, 2 brick built cottages producing a rental of £13 per annum. Each of the above have very large garden and long frontages to the road.


Also by order of the mortgagee, a brick built cottage, blacksmith's shop, forge and large garden, in the occupation of Mr Henry Cooper.


May be viewed by permission of the tenants...."


1899, September 1: Woolwich Cycling Club Woolwich Herald
"The above named club held on Saturday their much looked forward to run with the Rangers CAC to Old George's at Longfield [I think this is George Tyrer of the Green Man where other cycling clubs went, but 'old' George was 43 at the time!], a most popular resort for cyclists. Precisely at 3.30pm the big muster of wheelmen moved off from the Lord Derby, via Bostal to Dartford, where a hald was made for refreshments. Mr C of the Rangers, after resuming the journey, had the audacity to ride past the captains up East Hill, Dartford, and consequently got fined drinks all round. The next halt was at the Ship, Green Street Green. Here Messrs L and B engaged in a gladiatorial combat, Mr B eventually winning by 15 points to 3. A set of Roman relics was discovered and was presented to Mr Bob Hills. Arriving at Longfield, tea was the next item. After this repast, singing and dancing were the order of the evening, the following artists obliging - Messrs Leslie, Brown, Crocker, Miller etc. At 10.30 the homeward journey commenced, everyboy being satisfied with the day's outing."


1899, November 2: Assault at Longfield Maidstone Journal
Dartford Magistrates: "Charles Cockell was charged with unlawfully wounding George White, by stabbing him with a knife at Longfield, on October 22nd. The parties reside in huts, and on the day in question quarrell, and subsequently fought. They fell to the ground, and the prisoner stabbed White in the neck. White called out, and a man named Hope went to his assistance. White was covered with blood, and it was found there was a wound on his collar bone nearly half an inch deep. Prisoner was committed for trial."


1899, November 16: Transvaal Relief Fund Times
Fawkham Church raises £27.12s for Transvaal Relief Fund


1899, November 30: Times
Obituary of John Prosser Allen RN of Longfield (73); took part in Crimea campaign


1899, December 1: Assault at Longfield Sevenoaks Chronicle
Kent Autumn Assizes: "In the case of Charles Cocket, 36, labourer, who was indicted for maliciously wounding George White at Longfield, the jury returned a verdict of not guilty and expressed the opinion that the prosecutor deserved all he got. His Lordship: This is a very happy country for those who use knives. I suppose the jury approve the use of the knife in the settlement of such disputes? The foreman said the jury did not approve of the use of the knife. The prisoner was acquitted and the jury discharged."


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