Sept.23rd.1855

The Death of Samuel Vial, of Lower Hall Foxearth, has occurred in his 64th year, he was known for his kindness and liberality and descended to his grave, lamented by friends.

Oct 11 1855

Hinckford Agriculture and Conservative Association----- First for stacking-George Chinery £ 1-entered by T.S.Ewer.(probably Pentlow)Long service awards-22years-to Henry Chatters-J.Wilkins 5 shillings from Belchamp Walter.

Dec.4th 1855

Whilst going to his labours, George Rippingale of Gestingthorpe died suddenly, aged 35years.

Dec.4th 1855.

The name Chatters is a corruption of the Norman name Chatres.

Feb.28th, 1866

At Belchamp Walter the wife of WM.Chinery gave birth to still born twins, 8 months ago she gave birth to two living children.

March 4th 1866

Chas. Richardson of Poslingford, was fined 10/6 for damaging the Rev.John Foster's fence at Foxearth, at Hedingham Petty Sessions.

Feb. 6th.1856.

Susan Ives died at Belchamp Walter aged 100yrs.

April 4th. 1856.

At Hedingham Petty.Sess., Thomas Turp of Pentlow was charged with leaving his wife, causing her to be chargeable to the parish. -Case dismissed.

Jan 28th. 1858

The sudden death of Miss? Aldham, of Foxearth Hall was reported. The poor will regret her passing, but it will be eternal gain.

March 11th. 1858.

A windmill belonging to Mr.Pannel, of Belchamp Otten had segments of the sails broken during high winds, the wind got behind the sails and caused the mill to reverse at an alarming rate

May 13th. 1858

At Pentlow on Monday last, a boy aged 14years, Walter Harrington, employed by Mr.Orbell (either Pentlow Street or Bower Hall G.H.) was leading a young horse out to be fed, he had tied the halter round his wrist. It is thought by some means the horse was frightened and ran away, dragging the poor boy with it. He was found by Chas. Orbell lying near the gate, quite dead his skull being fractured and brain protruding. Accidental death.

Jan.6th. 1859

Pentlow. Will. Orbell aged 15 years was driving Joseph Orbell's chaff cutting machine. The boy sitting in the centre became dizzy and fell off the seat, getting his fingers caught in the cogs and smashing his hands. Medical aid summoned and he went well for three days, but Messrs. Waring and Barnett decided to amputate below the elbow, skillfully and successful performed.

Jan. 13th.1859.

On the 4th instant Mr. King, of Bradfield was hunting at Belchamp Otten, with the East Essex hounds, when his horse worth 40 guineas was killed by falling into a ditch near Old Farm House.

Sept.11th. 1856

Old Farm House (Hobarts Hall) Belchamp Otten for sale.
Sixteen capital cart horses . 4 colts and 4 foals, property of the late Mr. Chickall.

April 11th. 1956

Death of Mary Ann Martin of Belchamp Walter, after a long illness aged 29 years, sixteen of them in the employ of Miss Child, who in consideration of her aimiable qualities allowed her to remain in her employ till the end.

July 1857

J.Bullingbrook of Long Melford wishes it to be known that he is now laying asphalt floors, must have a supply of dry sand.

Aug.27th. 1857

Cricket -Cavendish first innings-53 runs second innings 23 runs----Clare first innings 29 runs -second innings 26 runs.

Nov. 5th. 1857.

On Thursday last at Wickhambrook, Mr.G.A. Partridge held an inquest at the Crown Inn on the body of Ellen King aged 1yr.8 months.
She was the daughter of Will. King. It appears that the mother was busy, when the child without being detected, went to the fireplace and drank some water from the kettle, which was standing on the hob, the mother at once took the child to the surgeon, Mr. Stutter, no medical aid could save its life, its throat being so blistered that it died from suffocation. No blame was attached to the mother . Acc. Death

Dec. 1857.

Mr. Woods of Brundon begs to inform his friends that he has a first class Ransomes and Sims threshing machine.

April 7th. 1859.

Three cottages in Borley, Two occupied by labouring people, Fisher and Chas. Finch , were destroyed by fire. Sudbury Fire Brigade attended and rendered great service by preventing the farm opposite, the property of Mr. Gardiner from being ignited, the burning thatch being carried across the road. The poor people managed to save most of their goods . There was a defection in the oven chimney. Mr.
Gardiner had insurance with the law office.

April 14th. 1858.

James Sillitoe of Borley was charged with leaving a horse and cart unattended in Ballingdon. When spoken to civily by P.C.
Grey , he said," I shall do what I please." The P.C. walked away and returned 1© hours later and found the horse and cart coming down the street, he found the defendant in the White Horse. Convicted of making abusive language to the police. Fined £ 1 and 14s. costs.

July 14th. 1858.

There was a destructive fire at Sheering Place Belchamp St. Pauls, which is farmed by George Chickall. Several labourers were sitting in the stackyard, where one is supposed to have thrown a match after lighting his pipe. Clare fire engine and Norwich Union engine attended. Buildings destroyed-- Three large barns -three stables- cowhouse - granary- piggeries- cart lodges- , to these must be added machinery to work three hundred acres- 400 combs of wheat- 40 combs of barley- A new clover stack . Mr. Chickall was at Sudbury market, a man was dispatched to inform him. The farm was insured for £ 1500. The farm is owned by Nicholas Parry of Little Hadham Herts.

March 8th. 1860.

The following literal copy of a letter which passed through Baythorne End post office.

Run postman run
And deliver this letter
Ovington is the place of abode
Near the kicking dickie
On the Halstead road.

June 28th. 1860.

There was some excitement in the parish of Pentlow when a body of a child, was found floating in the pond behind the privy, at Mr. J. Ewers farm. The inquest was told that Mary Wadley aged 24 years, of a stout and comely appearance, a cook at at Mr. Ewers, she had gone to her friends in Glemsford complaining of feeling ill.Mr. Jones of Long Melford who attended her, taxed her if she had been confined, she denied it for two days, then admitted she had given birth in the closet, and had never seen the child, and did not know if it had been alive or not, no-one at the farm knew about her condition.--Case is likely to come before Hedingham magistrates for concealment of birth.

Jan. 10th. 1861

Mary Ann Brady of Belchamp Walter, a servant at Mrs.Hutton's aged 23 yrs. took rat poison having had a still born child.Verdict-- Destroyed herself.

Jan. 25th. 1861

A child named Finch died from convulsions at Belchamp Walter. On the same day at Belchamp Otten, Will. Ginn aged 13yrs. jumped from the threshing machine while it was in motion, he was caught in the spindle by his smock frock. The accident happened at Mr. Edwards farm.Verdict Accidental Death.

Sept. 13th. 1860

Aubries played Foxearth on the Foxearth ground . The Aubries utterly defeated the enemy, as the subjoined score will testify.
Foxearth 1st. inns.55 runs 2nd.inns.40 runs.- Aubries 1st. inns.86 runs 2nd. inns. 8 runs for 2 wkts.

23rd. Aug. 1860.

Long Melford played Foxearth, on the Foxearth ground.The subjoined was the score when time was called. Melford winning by the first innings- Foxearth 1st. inns. 48 runs 2nd. inns. 50 runs- Melford 1st. inns. 60 runs 2nd. inns. 29 runs for 3 wkts.

Jan. 17th. 1861.

Pentlow labourer Thos.Chambers, had his fingers drawn into a thresher while working on Mr. J. Ewers farm at Pentlow. Mr.
Waring thought the arm might have to be amputated.

Feb. 27th. 1862

The Rev. Bull was instituted as rector of Pentlow by the Bishop of Rochester.

June 5th. 1862

To be sold by auction in the latter part of June, Belchamp Walter Water Mill, at the Four Swans Sudbury.
BELCHAMP WALTER ESSEX.--Mr. G. Cardinal has been favoured with instructions from Mr. Ruse to sell by auction, the WATER CORN MILL, MALTING, BREWERY AND RESIDENCE, solely in consequence of ill health of the proprietor. At the Four Swans Hotel Sudbury, on Friday June 27th.1862. At three o' clock p.m.
All that highly valuable FREE HOLD PROPERTY known as WALTER BELCHAMP WATER CORN MILL. Driving two pairs of 4ft. French stones, having a fine head of water giving 16ft. of water over superior iron over shot wheel, with iron pit-wheel and weller nut fitted for steam power, three flour dessing mills, jumper, and all the modern machinery and fittings, and stowage for 1500 combs.Also a very Capital Maltings, of 25 comb steep, with malt chamber and brick built Malt Store attached. A comfortable and convenient Dwelling House, containing Entrance Hall, five bedrooms, Parlour, Keeping Room, Kitchen, Dairy, Two Cellars, Well and pump of Excellent Water, Large Garden and Orchard well planted with choice fruit trees.The outbuildings consist of a very compact detatched Brewhouse, coal and wood house, stables for four horses, chaise- house, piggeries, cart and cow-sheds.There is also capital pastures adjoining the premises and three acres of first rate Meadow-land upon Belchamp Common, the whole containing EIGHT ACRES and TWO POLES, and is delightfully situated in a first class corn district, five miles from the market town of Sudbury, seven from Clare, and six from Halstead.The premises are of a most substantial character and are in perfect repair, and all the fixed machinery and going gears, with the timber upon the estate, included in the sale with exclusive right of fishing. A lucrative trade is now carried on, and the purchaser may have immediate possession, so that he can enter at once into one of the best businesses in the county.Further particulars and Conditions of sale may be had from W, Dowman, Esq. Solicitor, and of the Auctioneer.

July 21st. 1862

On Tuesday afternoon at B.ST.Pauls a fire broke out at a farm belonging to Mr. J. Carter. The fire consumed all of the premises except the dwelling house. It is believed the origin of the fire to have arisen from one of the barn floors being asphalted, a coal falling out of the furnace and setting light to straw in the yard. The farm is owned by Mr, Vining. It is not known if the farm was insured.

Thursday Sept. 1862

A labourer employed for many years by Mr. Robt. Felton of Easton Hall Belchamp Walter, expired suddenly. He was W. Wright, who had been to work at the harvest last Friday but remained at home on Saturday complaining of feeling unwell, his daughter went for the Curate the Rev. John Hammond, and on returning was horrified to find her father a corpse.

June 12th. 1862.

Another instance of the uncertainty of life occured at Glemsford on the evening 3rd. inst. Mr. Jas. Byford has hired the farm recently called ''Rowhedge'' and on the evening in question invited a neighbour, Mr. Hills to inspect the farm with him.They rode there together in a gig to walk through the fields, when Mr. Hills complained of feeling unwell. He sat down on a mackintosh Mr. Byford had with him, and in a few moments was a corpse. The deceased was a man very much respected, and was aged about sixty years. The farm was previously occupied by Mr. King of Henney.

Jan. 1st. 1863.

An inquest was held at the Bull Hotel Cavendish before G. Partridge, Coroner, on the body of Geo. J. Jeffery who met his death by falling from the roof of Mr. Geo. Ambrose's mill at Foxearth. It appears that no-one saw him fall, two ladders had been tied together when the top one slipped, causing the lower one to break in two. He was taken from the ground insensible by Mr. Bull, a gas fitter, and conveyed to his home 1© mls. away, but expired shortly afterwards.--Verdict- Accidental Death.

Aug. 27th. 1863.

Fire broke out on Sat. morning in a large wheat stack on the farm of Richard Aldham,(Foxearth Hall).The stack contained 40-50 quarters of wheat. No water was available, so it was considered useless to send for the fire engines. The origin of the fire was uncertain, but it is supposed to be chidren playing with lucifers, as there were several by the stack, being placed there by their mothers who were gleaning.

July 27th. 1864.

An accident occurred in Foxearth Sreet last Thurs.Geo. Kingsbury from Bures st. Mary, narrowly escaping death.Kingsbury who is in the employ of Messrs.Turner(Tanners) had been to Foxearth Hall to collect three three packs of wool, he was proceeding with his load in Foxearth Street when his horse became restive, his rein broke and the horse became unmanageable, and drew the van into some palings and the shafts broke. Kingsbury's head came in contact with the palings, and he suffered severe cuts to the head. P.C. Edwards, assisted and after two hours, Kingsbury resumed his journey.

June 29th. 1864.

Three cottages were burned down in Foxearth last week, labourers Thomson, Deal and Brown were made homeless, a sow and two pigs were lost, also a pony and cart-shed adjoining were lost.

Aug.10th. 1865

Lewis Tarbun, a dealer was charged for allowing a horse to feed on the highway at Belchamp St. Pauls, P.C. Spooner proved the case.Fined 1s.and 10s6d costs, on default 7 days prison.

Jan.14th. 1864

At Essex winter Sessions held last week, William Cranfield, labourer of Otten Belchamp was indicted for stealing a lamb, valued at 30s., the property of Thomas Pratt. Thomas Pratt said I have 146 lambs of the Leicester breed, in June, I had them in a field called Ten Acres, and saw them safe on Friday the 12th, and on the next day found one short, adjoining mine is a large field called Arbages, belonging to Mr. Edwards, with a deep ditch and a high fence between.
Cranfield lives in a cottage 50 rods from the field, after I missed it, I sent Mansfield and Burrell to find it, they brought back the four quarters of the lamb in the skin, part of the hind quarters was there . I have no doubt it was my lamb, there is no footpath near that field.
John Burrell said, I saw the lanbs on Friday, and counted them at four in the morning, they were all right. Daniel Burrell said at four in the afternoon on Sat. 13th. I counted the lambs there were 145, one wasmissing, I went to search for it with Mansfield, Mansfield went to the ditch and called me, I went to him, and there saw part of the lamb, the boy and I lifted it out of the ditch into Arbages, we then took it home, I believe it to be my master's, there was one leg in a handkerchief, part of what was flayed was laid on an old bag. Alfred Mansfield confirmed Burrell as to finding of the lamb, pointing out the place to the policeman. By the court; Did you not see any rabbit holes there. Harry Edwards, said my father is a farmer and his field adjoins Mr. Pratt's Ten Acres , on the 12th. of June I went to the field, when getting over the gate I observed someone kneeling on the brow of the ditch, about 25 rods off, two others ran along the ditch, the man on the bank jumped into the ditch; I followed them, and all three got over into Mr. Pratt's Ten Acres. I followed and overtook the prisoner who was out of breath and rather lame, I said good-day to him but he did not answer, I followed and overtook the other named Max, and the other was the prisoner's brother and neither has been heard of since, after the lamb was found I went to the ditch and found marks of blood at the place where I had seen the men.By the Court;-There is a rabbit hole in the bank there.P.C.
Robt. Spencer said I was sent for by Mr. Pratt and the parts of the lamb were shown me, I went to the ditch and found blood and wool, I searched a little pond four rods off, and found the entrails of a lamb, I examined the hedge and found a place where the lamb had been forced through the hedge from Mr. Pratt's field. I know Cranfield, and on the 16th.
obtained a warrant for his arrest, I endeavoured to find him, but could not take him until Wednesday week, I told him the charge, he said he knew nothing about it, but added " If there is anything wrong you always come after us", the other men have not returned. The prisoner's statement was put in, he alleged that on going along they saw a hole that looked as it had been used, one of them put a ferret in. Max said Edwards was coming, and they ran away, but Edwards overtook them, and as they said they would get a month, and being out of employ they went away to look for work, and had been at work ever since, till he came back, the others he believed had enlisted. The prisoner put in a document showing he had discharged from the army with a good character. The Jury Aquitted the Prisoner.

Jan. 14th. 1864.

A most deplorable accident occured at Belchamp Walter on Friday to Mr.Will.Turner who occupies Reeve's Farm in Belchamp Otten.
The farm belongs to Manning Cook of Twinstead, the deceased has held the position of Bailiff for 14 years. About 9 o'clock on the morning in question, Turner was going along the Walter road with a yong horse drawing a tumbril, he was walking on the near side of the horse, leading it by the bridle rein, but on passing the premises of Mr. Chinery, in Puttock Lane, the horse became restive, (It is supposed through smelling pigs blood which had been washed down near the road, Mr. Chinery having killed some pigs that morning) and bolted, but the deceased ran by the horse, till it came to a three foot wall in the turning of the road, where it ran so close to the wall that the poor fellow was crushed by the nave of the wheel of the tumbril catching him just above the right hip.He expired a few minutes afterwards.
An official enquiry was held on Monday afternoon last, at the homestead of Reeves Farm Otten, Belchamp, before W.Parmenter (Foreman) S.Pratt, J.Orford, G.Hillsden, J.Sparrow, J.Hillsden, R.Pearson, J.Goody., W.Papworth, A.Ward, E.Ives, and J.Lawrence.
Eliza Cook was called, she said she saw deceased coming down Puttocks Lane with a horse and tumbril, near Walter Deal's gate the horse shyed, it started to trot and ran along side a wall near some cottages, I saw him crushed between the tumbril and the wall, he was calling out , OH Dear ME, and had his hand on his hip. A juror said I saw two or three horses shy at the same place the other day, there is blood running across the road sometimes.
James Gibbons a Marine store Dealer, said he a was going down the road after two pails of water, when he heard a horse coming quickly down the road, and a man shouting ''WOO, ''WOO, the deceased let go the horses head near the wall, the knave of the wheel catching him on the right hip. I ran for some brandy and when I returned ten minutes later he was dead, I did not see any blood in the road. A juror said 'were there not some pigs hanging there the other day by the side of the road ' Witness 'NO'. Eliza Maxim of Otten deposed to laying out deceased, said there was no blood from the mouth, but a severe black bruise at the top of the right hip, no bones were broken. This concluded the evidence, several of the jury said they had difficulty inducing their horses passed that spot.Another juryman who occupied a large farm said his labourers often had to back their horses past the spot, so great was the animals dread of the scent from the place. The Coroner said if it was such a nuisance it could be reached by the law and could be indicted as a dangerous place.--ACCIDENTAL DEATH.--The deceased was respected by all who knew him and enjoyed the implict confidence of his employer.He leaves a widow and seven children.

July 14th. 1864.

Burial of the dead the dead at Foxearth.
Refusal of the rector to permit the disinterment of a body.
This rural parish was throughout the day on Wednesday last, the scene of unusal excitement, arising from proceedings taken and preparations made for the disinterment and the remains of the body of the late Samuel Vial, Esq.
The matter will perhaps be understood by a short recital of the circumstances connected with the grave anterior to Wednesday's proceedings. It appears that the late Samuel Vial, who was a wealthy Landowner and Farmer, residing in the adjoining parish of Cavendish, died on 23rd. of Sept. 1855, then leaving two sons and a daughter(married), and it is alleged on one side, but contradicted on the other, that on his death bed he desired to be buried in Foxearth Churchyard, but whether so or not, he was buried there, and soon after a dispute arose between the deceased's friends and the Rector (REV. JOHN FOSTER) with reference to a tombstone or memorial to be erected, as they wished to erect over his remains. The incumbent states that the proposed monument was a column surmounted by a wheatsheaf, the whole to be surrounded by a railing, and he therefore objected, considering it unsuitable; he was then threatened with proceedings in the ecclesiastical court, and a correspondence ensued, but ultimately a simple tombstone was erected. When the late Mrs.Vial died her sons wished her to be buried alongside their father, to this Mr. Foster consented, although she was not a parishioner at the time of her death, on condition that a written agreement was given that they would not erect any tombstone until the design had first been submitted and met with his approval. The Rector states that his object was to prevent any disputes arising afterwards. As the sons refused to give the written guarantee, Mr.Foster objected to the burial taking place, and Mrs. Vial was interred in Belchamp Otten churchyard.
The matter rested for a few months, until Mr. Simon Quy Vial and Mr.
Pratt Vial, the two sons, applied at the Chancellors Court of the diocese of Rochester, for a faculty to remove the body of the late Mr.
Vial from Foxearth to Otten Belchamp Churchyard.
On Wednesday morning a number of men from adjoining parishes assembled at Foxearth, and remained there until two o'clock, when Mr. Jas.
Cardinall of Halstead, solicitor for Messrs. Vial, arrived with the faculty. a hearse was also there, with some stonemasons from Messrs.
Keogh's yard at Sudbury, and labourers to help disinter the coffin. The gate of the churchyard was locked and the men remained outside on the meadow. Mr.Cardinall read the legal document and demanded the body. The Rector refused on the ground that the faculty being invalid; and said that otherwise he had no interest in the matter, other than to protect the interests of his parishioners, especially Mrs. Ewer, a parishioner, a daughter of the late Mr. Vial, who as well as her children wished the body to remain at Foxearth. Mr.Simon Vial denied that his father had expressed a desire before his death to be buried there. Mr. Cardinall made a speech in which he alluded to the un-Christian and uncharitable nature of Mr.Foster's refusal to permit the disinterment of the body to where it might lie alongside his wife.At one time there was quite an uproar, and it was feared that the men would proceed to take violent steps to remove the body, but Mr. Cardinal allayed the storm, and a portion of the crowd, which had increased to some two hundred people who vented their feelings in giving three groans for the Rector, and three cheers for Mr.Cardinall and Messrs Vial. We understand that Mr.Foster expressed himself perfectly willing to permit the removal of the coffin if legal faculty was obtained. The grounds of the objections to the one produced, was we believe that no citation had been produced or issued to let the objectors come forward. The memorial on which it had been obtained also stated that the applicants had obtained the consent of the Rev.Dawson, Rector of Otten Belchamp, for reinterment in his churchyard. This is denied, on the other side it is alleged to have been given verbally. However written notices were served on Tuesday, on Mr.Vial, not to proceed to inter the remains in Belchamp Otten churchyard. The Bishop of Rochester had also written to Mr. Foster to say the faculty obtained was quite out of order, no citation having been issued.
It appears Mrs. Ewer had also protested and prayed the Bishop not to permit the removal.An order likewise was given by the Rector and churchwardens of Otten Belchamp not to assist in any manner.
No attempt was made to dis-inter the body, and about five o'clock the hearse and the men left the ground, and the crowd dispersed.We hear it is intended to take proceedings, and that the matter is likely to cause considerable litigation in the Ecclesiastical Courts.

Oct. 7th.1864.

SURREPTITIOUS REMOVAL OF A CORPSE FROM FOXEARTH CHURCHYARD.
A great amount of excitement throughout the parish of Foxearth, near Sudbury, and the adjoining locality, by widespread rumour propagated on Thursday last- and which proved correct- to the effect that the remains of the late Samuel Vial, ESQ. had been removed from the chuchyard under circumstances of a most extraordinary nature. It appears that about six o'clock on Thursday morning a labourer named Ward, in the employ of the Rev. J. Foster, was passing through the churchyard when he found the tombstone had, by some means or other, had been removed during the night, and the ground rifled of its contents, the earth still remained as it was thrown out, and the grave-stone was broken in two or three pieces. A piece of candle, which evidently had been used to light the men in their operations, was left on the mutilated tomb. Mr. Vial had been buried in a brick grave, which had been covered in the same way with a large slab, the full size; this had been drawn or taken out and placed by the side, but as the grave had not been entirely uncovered at one end of the coffin had been tilted up then lifted to the surface.From thence it was carried to the gate, and placed in a vechicle of some description; the tracks across the meadow clearly showed the marks of a vechicle leading to the Sudbury road. Rev.Foster had been absent for several days.Nothing was heard in the night, either of the men who did the work, or the waggon brought to convey the body away, but certain labourers, in the parish of Otten Belchamp, who were going to their morning's employment, aver that they met a yellow painted vechicle, driving at a moderate pace, towards Belchamp, on which were riding five or six men, but they were so disguised as not to be recognizeable by any of them.The man who first discovered the empty grave was in the gas house, seeing to the works, at two o'clock in the morning, but heard nothing; this might be accountable for, as a strong wind was blowing from the buildings, and the night was dark one.
It will no doubt be fresh in the minds of our readers that the sons of the deceased were anxious to disinter the remains and bury them along side his wife, who is interred in Otten Belchamp churchyard .
On the same morning, between seven and eight o'clock as the sexton at Otten Belchamp was walking through the churchyard, he noticed a plank lying against the wall, and noticed it was partly encrusted with dirt, and appeared as it had been for some time imbedded in the earth. On making further investigations it was discovered that the grave in which Mrs.Vial had been buried had been opened during the night; not however as in olden days, by body snatchers, who rifled the corpses for plunder, or carry them away in sacks to dispose of them for remuneration as " subjects" for the dissecting room, but that another corpse might beinterred in the same grave.The earth had been shovelled in carefully, and pressed down well, and the turf (which had been cut artistically from the mound)was replaced exactly, apparently by practical and professional hands.all marks of the nocturnal visit and disturbance had been obliterated as far as possible, and a casual glance at the spot would not have detected any recent displacement of soil. But a little " slip" as often is the case, had occurred, which led to the discovery of the open grate. It appears that when Mrs.Vial was interred, for some reason or other, three planks were left in the ground, laid over the coffin; perhaps in preparation for the other coffin, which might be placed above.On Wednesday night the men who had been employed to disinter the body of Mr. Viall in Foxearth churchyard, had not stayed to obliterate traces of their midnight work, but evidently proceeded immediately to Otten Belchamp, and opened the grave where the wife had been buried, and placed the corpse of her husband there, but in the necessary burying, they had inadvertently left out one of the planks, and finding out too late their mistake, had thrown it against wall, not deeming it advisable to carry with them any criminatory evidence.It was the plank that led to the discovery of the opening of the grave.
Of course the Foxearth authorities were angry at what had been done, and every effort is being made to discover the parties engaged in the removal of the corpse; it is rumoured that a London detective is likely to be brought down, and by whose skill the midnight depredators brought to justice.Great excitement has been caused locally,(and as is generally the case in parochial disputes and feuds, some persons sympathise with the Rector and are very irate at the " sacrilege"; while others feel that the Vial's were very much injured and aggrieved, and that the secret way the body was removed was cleverly planned, and neatly carried out.As journalists we cannot side with one or the other.Yet we trust that for the peace, and to avoid other scandals which might hurt religion, social rites, and even trade and business, and that the authorities, be that Foxearth and Belchamp, will now let the dead rest in peace, and abstain from quarrelling with the living.It was a natural feeling that survivors should should wish both parents to rest together in consecrated ground, and there could could be no valid objection to the removal of either body to the other churchyard.

Oct.27th.1864

£ 20 REWARD---SACRILEDGE----AND BODY STEALING---- ON WEDNESDAY NIGHT OF THE 19TH INSTANT, THE CHURCHYARD OF THE PARISH OF FOXEARTH WAS VIOLENTLY ENTERED, AND THE BODY OF LATE SAMUEL VIAL WAS DISINTERRED AND TAKEN AWAY, THE ABOVE REWARD WILL BE PAYED TO ANY PERSON WHO WILL GIVE INFORMATION AS SHALL LEAD TO THE CONVICTION OF THE PERSON OR PERSONS, CONCERNED IN AFORESAID SCANDALOUS IRRELIGIOUS OUTRAGE.SIGNED RICHARD ALDHAM. AND HENRY COKER, CHURCHWARDENS.
Note:- (I have searched Otten churchyard for a Vial headstone, but it seems to have been removed, probably to facilitate grass cutting. G.H.)

March 24th. 1864

John Reeve. Will.Cranfield and Charles Maxim of Otten Belchamp, were charged with absenting themselves from their employer Mr H.Baker Mr H. Baker said " The defendants have been in my employ; Cranfield has been with me 17 years.I pay my men on Friday night, I paid them on the 26th of Feb. On the 27th of Feb.they came and worked the steam threshing machine as usual.They had 16d.and two pints of beer per day; They had been working with the machine for 2 days, as I was getting my breakfast, between eight and nine o'clock, I saw the three def. pass by on the road.I went to the door, asked them where they were going, they said they could not agree with Frost so we left.They put me to great trouble by doing so, asI had to get 2 more men to help with the threshing.They were not drunk.Maxim said" if you can not agree it is the best thing you can do".Will.Frost said I live at Foxearth on an off hand farm in the occupation of Mr Baker.I paid them on the 26th, and they said nothing about leaving, they came on the following morning to carry corn to the machine, they finished one stack by 8: 30.Reeve came to me and said" You needn't have that stack stripped, as we are going to leave".They finished one stack and then went.The steam engine was stopped for half an hour by them going.Cranfield said" The other men came before we went, Henry Everitt said I live at Otten and drive the engine for threshing.We began threshing barley at about 6: 30 on Sat. morning, the men fed the machine until the stack was finished.I then moved the machine to the other stack.I did not have to wait, as the other men came before they left.Cranfield said we could not agree with Frost, he said we were," good for nothing".Maxim said we were a few minutes late, but we have often waited an hour over time and nothing was said about it.The Bench sentenced the def. to lose their wages for that day, they were to pay costs amounting to 9s. and 6d.each.The chairman said he hoped other labourers would see they must not leave work they had engaged to perform.

Oct.19th. 1865

Robert Maxim and Will.Waldy were charged By Walter Chickall with absenting themselves from work at Foxearth,(probably Red House) Maxim who is paid 9s.per week was sent to prison for 2 months and Waldey for 14 days.

Feb.22nd 1866

An accident occurred at Hobarts Hall Belchamp Otten.A man named Robt.Howard, in the employ of H.Baker, was brewing during the day and was customary to attend during the night, at about midnight he was standing on a small copper adjoining the brewing copper, when the lid gave way and he fell into the boiling liquor, he managed to get out of the copper and walked 100yds.to his brothers house.Mrs.Mansfield was called and roused Mr.Baker, who went for Dr.Waring at Cavendish, he found the poor fellow dreadfully scalded, with no hope of recovery, and he died on Fri.at 5pm.He leaves a widow and six children.

March 15th. 1866

Mr.Rich.Aldham of Foxearth Hall was buried aged 82yrs.He had many friends and scarcely an enemy, his hand and purse were ever ready to assist the poor. Mourners were Mr.and Miss.Coker, J.Ewer.Miss Webb.R.Chickall.R.Eagle.R.Lambert.A.E.Jones and farm labourers in his employ.A small harmonium was placed near the grave and was accompanied by the choir.The mourners wore scarfs without headbands.

Jan.4th. 1866

On Thursday morning at 5-30 a.m. Geo.Corder, a postal messenger, was proceeding from Sudbury to Borley, when he found a farmer, John Coker, lying in the road near Mr.Bull's garden, with a broken leg.Corder obtained assistance and took him home in a cart.It appears Mr.Coker was visiting Mr.Ardley at Borley Mill the previous night, and left at 10-30 p.m. being perfectly sober, he stumbled over some stones which had been shot down for road repairs, and had lain there all night without anyone passing.

Feb.16th. 1866

A few days ago a labourer at a beerhouse at Pentlow, the occupier of which had recently settled there.He asked for a pot of beer which was supplied to him, after drinking it he said he could not pay for it till Sat.night, Boniface (Landlord) did not feel like giving him a trust, with the help of the local blacksmith, they chained the drouthy customer to a post adjoining the beerhouse, and kept him thus until a passing friend provided the means of clearing the score.

April 5th. 1866

Cattle plague has broken out on the farm of Mrs.Ewer at Foxearth. (Western Hall) One beast being killed and buried by order of Mr.Robt.Hutton, inspector of diseases.
May 3rd.1866.The committee have declared Mrs. Ewer's farm at Foxearth to be free from infection.

Sept.20th 1866

Fred.Copland of Belchamp Walter Water Mill, is prepared to dry corn at a reasonable price during this wet harvest

Sept.27th. 1866

At Liston on Sun.afternoon a thanksgiving for the prosperous in-gathering of the harvest, was held in the church. There was a numerous attendance, with an eloquent discourse by the Rev.Hammond.

Oct.18th. 1866.

We understand that a legacy of £ 100 has been received by the treasurer of of the Essex Hall Asylum for Idiots, By the exors. of Rich.Aldham of Foxearth Hall.

Dec.20th. 1866

A large drain that carries water under the street at Foxearth, burst on Thurs.evening during a heavy storm, near Mr.Gardiner's gate, the water pushing along the street making it impassable.In the evening the water subsided, during the heighth some cottages opposite the school were flooded.

Tues.July.30th. 1862

John Gooday of Otten was convicted of having deficient scales.Fined £ 1. -6s.costs.John Cooper of B. Walter was fined 6s.and 10s.costs for having a pair of flour scales incorrect.John Firmin of B. Walter a miller was fined 6s.and 10s.costs for having 2lb.scales 1© ozs.short. P.Twitchet of the same place, small scales incorrect, 5s.and9s.6d.costs.Will.Brown of the same place incorrect flour scales.5s.and9s.costs.Will.Hart of the same place, beerseller, three deficient weights 6s.and 9s 6d.costs.Will.Pamplin of Wickham St.Pauls, Higgler, for having three pieces of iron attached to the scales, 3s.6d.9s.6d.costs.Susanah Finch grocer of Gestingthorpe, deficient scales 6s.and 9s.6d.costs.Peter Finch of the same place, scales, 6s.Stephen Felton of the same place 6s.Harry Corder same place 6s. 9s.6d.costs.

Jan.24th 1862

On Fri.morning J.Cooper farmer and store keeper of B.Walter happened to be up later than usual, he was about to retire to rest, when he opened the back door and was startled by the cat rushing in and making a noise, this induced him to look in the yard where he saw a man who at once made off, followed by Mr.Cooper, who chased him across a ploughed field and caught him, nothing was found on him, Mr.Cooper had only a pair of slippers on which he lost in the snow. A quantity of fowls were in the yard near the back door.A few nights ago Mr.Chas.Adams of Larges Farm, lost a nice lot of fowls.It is a great pity that some of these people cannot be caught and receive the punishment that they richly deserve.

Jan.31st. 1867

A fine and beautiful specimen of the bittern, was recently shot on the Belchamp Walter estate of the Rev.J.M.St.Clare Raymond, the bittern is a bird but rarely found in these parts.

May 9th. 1867

A presentation to the late schoolmistress to the parish of Foxearth, Miss Arnold. She had held the post for the last 18 months.
She has relinquished the post in order to fulfil the same office at Wortham.(This school has been built and supported by the Countess of Stafford) is near Barnet.In order to show their respect for her kindness shown to the children who were under her charge, the cottagers subscribed amongst themselves and presented her with a handsomely bound copy of Macaulay's" History of England".

Oct.8th. 1867

Chas.Maxim of Foxearth was charged with having in his house a pair of scales which were incorrect and unjust.Fined £ 1 and 8s.costs. Def.was also charged with having in his possession three earthenware mugs purporting to be one pint, all being deficient in quantity.Fined 40s. 19s.6d.costs

Oct.17th. 1867

An unfortunate accident occurred to a young man who comes from B.Otten, his parents still residing here.His name is Will.Hurrel and is employed by the G.E.R.as a Fireman. On Monday night he was at Cambridge, when he stepped off the engine on to a heap of dirt, which threw him back of balance, the wheel of the locomotive passing over his ankle and foot. The poor fellow was taken to the county hospital where his foot will undergo amputation.

Oct.24th. 1867

On Wednesday evening an accident occurred to a man named Thos.Schemer(Schemer is employed as a groom to Mr.Ewer), he was cleaning the horse, when for some unexpected reason it kicked Schemer, breaking his jaw and cheekbone.Dr.Waring wsa sent for.Schemer is now fast recovering.

Nov.4th. 1867

On Tues.a blacksmith's at Borley, also known as Harts, was discovered to be on fire, the building is largely built of brick, lost its roof, the workshop being detached was undamaged.

Dec.26th. 1867

West Suffolk (Cavendish) Football Club played its first match on Sat.last against Bury Grammar School Twelve

Nov.4th. 1867

On Friday morning last about 5a.m.two straw stacks belonging to W.Chickall of Foxearth, were burnt, the stacks were situated in a meadow by the side of the Glemsford, Foxearth road near Glemsford railway station.Inquiries are being made by Supt.Elsey and P.C.Street.It appears that it is the work of an incendiary.The stacks were insured.

Oct.3rd. 1867

Wickhambrook- On Tues.last, John Webb, a small occupier of land in this parish, was assisting in threshing wheat on the premises of Mr.B.Fuller.A lad employed on the straw stack pitched an acorn which he had picked from a tree, and threw it at so that it hit Webb, who immediately ascended the stack, struck the lad with a fork stale, then pulled him down with such force as to fracture his leg.Mr.Fuller sent the lad home in a wheelbarrow, Mr.Stutter the surgeon was called.Several weeks must elapse before he resumes work.

Jan.16th. 1867

On Fri.last a boy named Braybrook, in the employ of Robt.Orbell, was engaged in hedging, he slipped and fell upon a pointed stake which entered his body, Dr.Waring was sent for and we are glad to say the case is progressing.

Dec.26th. 1867

Charles Eady of Belchamp st.Pauls was charged with stealing a chicken, the property of Thomas Eagle of Belchamp st Pauls.
Mr. Eagle said I occupy Clare Downs farm. Prisoner has been in my employ for 10 years, five as horseman.On the 11th of Dec.I left home about ten in the morning and returned at five.Prisoner was at barn work that day.When I returned, in consequence of what Chas.Hammond said, I sent for the prisoner, and asked him to explain the death of a chicken that had been taken to my house.He said he knew nothing about it.Charles Hammond a bright lad of 12 years said I work for Mr.Eagle, on the day in question the prisoner left the premises at 12 and returned at 3-30(his dinner time is 12 to 1. When he returned he and another man went in to the stable, I went into the stable to see what they were doing, the door was shut.I opened it and saw the prisoner and the other man with a chicken each.I asked them what they were going to do with them, he said " nothing", I said put it down then, and he did.I then went away and returned 10 minutes later.I asked him where the fowl was, he said he knew nothing of it, I then looked round and saw it in the corner, dead, and covered with straw, it was still warm, I took it to my master.The chairman said they were sorry to see such a charge against a man who had been ten years in the employ of one master, the bench sentenced him to six weeks hard labour

May 21st. 1868

On Sat.or Sun.morning, 16 hens were stolen from an off- hand farm called Simpsons, at Pentlow, in the occupation of J.Ewer.The thieves attempted to enter the fowl house by pulling down a quantity of clay wall, they found they could not enter because of the studs.Information was given to P.C.Street and P.C.Barber but there is no trace of the stolen property.

May 7th. 1868

AT FOXEARTH TOMMORROW--WINDMILL TO BE REMOVED--- MESSRS.BALLS AND NEWMAN WILL SELL BY AUCTON AT TWELVE O'CLOCK BY ORDER OF MR.RUFFLE--THE WHOLE OF THE MATERIALS ARISING FROM FOXEARTH WINDMILL- -TWO PAIRS OF FOUR FEET FRENCH STONES AND GEARS AT HEAD-CROSS TREES--- QUARTER SPURS AND POST--WIND TACKLE--SHAFT MIDDLINGS--TWO PATENT SAILS-- TWO COMMON SAILS--FLOUR MILL--MEAL TROUGHS--BINS--STAIRS--LADDERS-- SCALES--WEIGHTS--MILL BILLS--STAFF ETC.--BRICK ROUND HOUSE COVERED WITH ZINC--THE SHELL AND CAP OF THE MILL--LIGHT SPRING CART AND HARNESS-- CATALOGUES FROM THE AUCTIONEERS AT C. HEDINGHAM AND RAYNE.

Jan.9th. 1868

Thom.Argent labourer, of Pentlow was charged with stealing a quantity of beans and some wood, the property of Tho.Brand of Pentlow.Thomas Brand of Pentlow said the prisoner has been in my employ for 15 yrs.on Wed.last he was at work in the barn threshing beans, I have examined the beans produced by P.C.Street and say they are my property, the same beans the prisoner was threshing in the barn, and I value them at between 4d.and 6d.I also have some wood in the cartlodge, I had some sawn up, the piece produced was not used and left in the cartlodge.I value the wood at 1s.The prisoner was also charged with stealing 31 swede turnips, some barley and oats, valued at 5s.and 1s.also 5 chickens.Mr.Brand said he had been laid up for six weeks" and I dare say he had helped himself"(Laughter) Prisoner pleaded guilty---6 months imprisonment.

Jan.16th. 1868

At Belchamp Otten on Friday last Geo.Avis, while shoeing a horse was kicked and fractured his right knee, Dr.Waring was sent for and he is now progressing.

Feb.20th. 1868

James Deaves of Borley was summoned for allowing his horse to stray on the highway, P.C.Street gave evidence saying that it was the third time he had warned Def.Defendant said he had turned the horse on to the green to have some water and it went down the road---- Fined 2s.6d. costs 11s.6d.

March 6th. 1868

On Sat.last a private shooting party was held at Cavendish, consisting Mr.Mortimer of the George Hotel and three other gentlemen, they shot 36 pigeons at a twenty six yard rise from the trap, only one bird escaping and that was wounded.So we we may fairly conclude that Mr.Mortimer and friends are crack shots.

June 11th. 1868

At Pentlow on Tues. morning at about 7-30 a.m.a fire broke out in the dwelling house of Ephraim Fairbank, beerhouse keeper of this village.It appears that as usual Fairbank and his wife got up, leaving their three children in bed, Mrs.Fairbank had only been down a short time when she heard a scream, she hastened upstairs and found a curtain of the bed alight, the alarm was given and the occupants of the houses cleared their houses of children and property.Cavendish Fire Engine attended under Mr.Ager and Brown, a good supply of water was obtained from a nearby pond, a block of seven houses were burnt which contained 39 persons.Rev.Bull instructed the firemen.J.Chickall owned the houses, lucifers are supposed to have been the cause.

May 21st. 1868

On Sun. afternoon the Lord Bishop of Rochester held a confirmation at Foxearth Church.The church was magnificent in its decorations being tastefully beautified with flowers.Wreaths of flowers of variegated hues adorned the altar, the reredos, the fine oak screen, and the slender gas brackets, and the interior when lighted up in the evening presented a brilliant appearance.In the afternoon, the Rev.R.G.Green recited the Litany, and the Rev.J.Foster, M.A., the rector, read the preface to the Confirmation service.Then the Bishop addressed a few words of encouragement and exhortation to the candidates previous to the Confirmation.There were in all 90 young people confirmed, 25 from Foxearth, and the remainder were from the parishes of Liston, Borley and Pentlow. In the evening, it having been announced that the Bishop was to preach, the church was crowded some time before the commencement of the service, and many of them present had a considerable distance to come in order to hear his Reverend Lordship.The senior curate read the prayers and the junior curate read the first lesson, while the Rev.W.K.BORTON, rector of WICKHAM ST.PAULS, read the second lesson.After the singing of a hymn, the Bishop preached the Sermon.The clergy and the choir, robed in their surplices, escorted the Bishop to and from the rectory.
We may mention that a handsome carved lichgate built of oak has been erected within this last week at the eastern entrance to the churchyard, it is surmounted by a guilt cross, and a pretty little specimen of oak carving, representing our saviour bearing the cross, is inserted in a niche over the centre facing the church.This gateway was erected by Mr.Stammers of Cavendish.

MAY 21st 1868

RESTORATION AND REOPENING OF LISTON CHURCH Built at the time at the time when the decorated style of architecture was in the vogue, the Church remained up till 1859 without being repaired or renewed in any material degree, but in that year it was entirely reseated with comfortable and commodious oak benches.Although this improved the state of the church, it was not altogether satisfactory, and accordingly Capt.Palmer of Liston Hall, with characteristic munificence, determined to restore the church at his own expence.
Mr.Woodyear of Guilford drew the plan of restoration, which was entrusted to Grimwood and Son, builders of Sudbury, for execution.the result of these restorations has been entirely satisfactory, and the parishioners, who assembled in the building for the first time last week since the completion of the works.The Church is very prettily situated opposite the entrance to Liston Hall, and the view from the top of the tower commands an extensive view of the surrounding countryside.The tower is a massive pile of brick strengthened by buttresses, and surmounted by battlements, which with the spiral staircases rising a little higher than the top of the tower, gives it a rather castellated appearance.In the tower there are a couple of very fine bells.the church is built of flints, with Bath stone facings, and consists of a chancel, nave, mortuary chapel, vestry and porch.The work of restoration has been principally confined to the chancel.While retaining the antique oak carved roof the walls and the windows have been entirely renewed.Above the communion table there is a magnificent stained glass, representing the Crucifixtion in the centre, and the Resurrection and the Ascention on either side.Along the bottom of this window there is the following scroll--''To the glory of God and the pious memory of GEORGE BEAUFOY this window was placed here by his widow in 1864''.The centre panel of the reredos, immediately above the table, will contain a sculptured marble panel representing the Adoration of the Magi, executed by Mr.Nicholls of London.On the south side of the chancel, there is a costly mortuary chapel erected in memory of the late Lady Palmer.These restorations have made the church one of the most elegant, commodious and comfortable in the district, and reflect credit, not only upon the munificence of the gentleman who has generously borne the expence, but on the architect and the builders, who executed the work.On Sunday the church was re-opened.The Rev.Huntingford preached in the morning, and the rector, the Rev.T.R.Fisher preached in the evening.there were large congregations on each occasion.

June 21st. 1868

Two cottages were burnt down at Foxearth, one a beerhouse, kept by Chas.Maxim, two thatched cottages standing nearby sustained little damage, the fire was caused by over heating of the flues.

Aug.6th. 1868

An inquest was held on the body of Walt.Smith of Belchamp Walter. Will.Codd was the Coroner, it was held at Northwood.Deceased was in the employ of N.Potman of Gestingthorpe.On Aug.1st.he was driving a waggon and two horses, he was riding one.About 4.30.he went to water the horses at a trough, not coming back his fellow workers looked for him and found him lying in the road, the waggon having stopped about 40 rods away, he said his stomach hurt.The surgeon was called on Sun., but he found him dead, his neck being fractured--Acc.Death.

Jan.7th. 1869

J.T.Whitlock begs to inform the public that he has taken over Ridgewell Mills, lately carried on by Mr.E.Sore and he hopes to merit their continued support.

Jan.14th 1869

A fine pack of hounds met at Melford Hall park, the seat of Sir.William Hyde Parker, drawn together it was the largest meet seen for some time, over 250 horsemen and a large number of vechicles and a great concourse of people from the neighbourhood.A fine sight with horsemen mounted on their(Bits of Blood).Acton Place wood was drawn, but it was at Lineage that reynard was at home, after a short run he came to grief, another stole away (to be run another day).At Brettenham wood a capital run of © hour was obtained and brought the sport to a close.

March 11th. 1869

Hedingham Highway Board--The surveyor said that he had prepared a plan for a bridge over the water course near Nether Hall at Gestingthorpe, and he proposed that 4yds.be taken from the adjoining meadows to secure width for the road through the river.He estimated the expence at £ 165. Rev.Foster considered that the work was highly neccessary, as it was more dangerous at the wash at Nether Hall than elsewhere, the last time a flood took place a person and his horse and cart were dragged out by Mr.Bear.

March 18th. 1869

The inhabitants of the picturesque village of Foxearth were shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Will.Foster the son of the rector of this parish, Rev.John Foster, it appears he was 23yrs.old and about to enter the ministry, he was doing a continental tour and died in Rome.

March 8th. 1869

At Hedingham Petty Sess. Henry Chatters a labourer of Pentlow, was charged with riding on the shafts of a waggon, the Rev.Foster proved the case, he said he saw def.riding in a most dangerous way upon the shafts, his legs dangling down and appeared asleep.He had informed his master, who said he was a honest trustworthy worker.The def.admitted he was the worse for beer.The chairman said this practice must stop as it endangered the mans own life and his masters property.Fined 6d.and 10s.costs.

April 1st. 1869

Hed.Petty Sess.Approval for overseers and constables for Foxearth -Overseers--Margaretta Ewer--Geo.Ambrose.Constable- T.P.Brand--Constable for Pentlow --J.Orbell.
.

July 1st. 1869. /p>

EYSTON SMYTHS WOOD at Foxearth.To be sold by auction by Mr.Geo.Coote.By directions of the proprietors, at 12 noon prec.300 oak trees and saplings and 50 loads of oak top.

July 8th. 1869

Mr.Hart a knackerman of B.Walter attended the bench to inquire why he had not been able to obtain a licence on account of a certificate being refused, Mr.Foster said it was not the knacking that was objected to, but the boiling of flesh and bones that was a great nuisance, horses being afraid to pass etc., Mr.Hart said he intended to build a place further back.Mr.Foster said he would have to get a proper place before he would get a certificate.

Aug.26th. 1869

Shorthorn Bull--(Marquis) Two years old(By Earl of Westmorland out of Dora by Garibaldi) is at service to the public at 5s.a cow at Melford Place.

Sept.2nd. 1869. /p>

Yesterday at Cavendish, an old woman named Brown, was drawing a pail of water from a well, she had drawn it to the top and was in the act of of taking it of the hook when she over reached herself and fell down the well, help was at hand and the poor woman got out without receiving any serious injury.

Sept.9th. 1869

Skillotts Farm Pentlow-Sale--Next Michelmas--The property of J.Barnes of Clare who's term expires.

Sept.9th. 1869

To be sold by auction--At Bradfields Farm--Pentlow--By direction of the executors of Geo.Chickall deceased. 22 horses and colts and the effects of 300 acres-pony-cows-steers-100 sheep-80 swine.

Oct.28th. 1869

Castle Hedingham revision of voters.Liston-the only change in this parish were Messrs Lambert who were both entered to vote at Witham.

Oct.28th. 1869

New painted window in Liston Church.It is always grateful to hear of the restoration to beautiful old Suffolk Churches.It is a handsome gift from Mrs.Branwhite of Long Melford, it is a three light window, the centre object of the Lord blessing three children.

Nov.18th. 1869

On the 9th instant, a man dressed as an inmate of the local lunatic asylum, was observed at Chelmsford, a police officer accosted him and asked him to accompany him, which he did.It was later found that he was Tho.Turp a lunatic from B.Walter who had escaped.

Dec.23rd. 1869

During Thurs.night the gale which passed over the parish of Pentlow, has we regret to say left its effects.A cowshed at Pentlow Hall blown down, two valuable cows and a donkey were killed, the cows were quite dead when found and the donkey had to be shot.

Dec.3rd. 1870

Bulmer Plough-Brewing plant-large copper- 11 store casks-Live and dead farming stock to be sold by auction by Geo.Coote by direction of Mr.Nice who has sold the above inn and discontinuing farming.

Nov.28th. 1870

Death of Maria Brand at Long Melford, widow of Oliver Brand, farmer of Acton.

Jan.13th. 1870

Pentlow-Caught at last, as P.C.Street the officer stationed at Foxearth, was doing his rounds at two o'clock on Sun.morning last, when near Mr.Brand's premises at Pentlow Street, he saw three young men coming out of the farmyard, as soon as they saw the officer they took to their heels, Street pressed them and caught one, when the other two turned back and made an attack on the officer with the object of rescuing their companion, but after a few minutes of sharp fighting, (Street pluckily sticking well to his prisoner) and the officer calling out for help, the other two made off as fast as they could.On the one that was captured was found no less than 11 dead fowls, whilst a bag left behind contained 5 more making 16 in all.The prisoner's name is Jesse Goody, of Glemsford, he was taken to the police station at C.Hedingham.During Sunday, Inspector Fox and P.C.Street paid a visit to Glemsford, and apprehended one of the others named Jas.Beavis, also of Glemsford, better known as ''Tit''who was also taken to Hedingham and safely lodged in the station with his companion.
Note:- This is an extract from F.W.Pawsey's book(Law and order in North Hinckford) published in 1991. In 1871 Capt.Mc.Hardy, the Chief Constable of Essex introduced a system of commendation for bravery, where a constable showed''Highly distinguished conduct in the discharge of duty, particulary when accompanied by a risk to life''.The award was called " The Star of Merit" to be embroidered in silver thread and to be worn on each side of the officer's collar.The first constable in the Essex Force to be so decorated was P.C.Street, who was stationed at Foxearth.The recipient P.C.Street, was patrolling his beat at Pentlow at about 2 a.m.on the 7th.of Jan., when he was confronted by three men who had broken into a chicken house and stolen 17 hens.The officer challenged the men, when without warning they attacked him, within a short time he had a man under lock and key and another soon joined him, Mc.Hardy thought this was just the situation he had in mind and personally ordered a tunic displaying the star of merit, to be delivered to P.C.Street.The constable to receive 1s.per week extra.
Fred Chatters of Borley (b-1906) remembers his grand father saying that the Chickall's, a large land owning family in the district and keen fox hunters, would put old hens down for the foxes in Snaques pit, at night, they were picked up by a man to feed his family.(G.H.)

May 14th. 1884

Incendiary fire at B.st.Pauls. Another wanton attempt to cause a fire was made in this village, making four in six months.The first occasion was on Nov.4th.when two cottages were burnt down.Soon after a hut in a wood was wantonly destroyed, a short time ago a valuable shed in the vicarage grounds was destroyed, belonging to our respected vicar, during evening service in the school.It caused great consternation especially as the Rev.gentleman has been but a few weeks with us.On Wed.evening last an attempt was made to fire two cottages near the Half Moon but the flames were seen and extinguished, the cottages are occupied by Chambers, and Chinery.We learn that the shock had a very baneful effect on Chinery, who is an old pensioner and very weak and nervous.

June 30th. 1884

At the Essex show at Saffron Walden, Tho.P.Brand of Foxearth won 1st.Prize with " Scariffs Wonder" A stallion " Not a Suffolk," foaled in 1882, class 4, Prize money £ 10.

July 30th. 1884

At Hed.Pett.Sess. David Oakley was charged with coming off land at Pentlow, where he had been in pursuit of game on July 19th.
Case proved by P.C.Street.-Fined £ 4-costs 17s.6d.in default, 28 days hard labour.

July 30th. 1884

112 acres at Foxearth to be let. Cricket--Rev.Foster's eleven v.Clare Peppermints, Fox.99 runs. Clare 31 and 64 runs.

Aug.20th. 1884.

Bulmer. Complaints are being made about the deficiency of water in this parish, the ponds having dried up, and some of the parishioners are having to fetch water from Belchamp brook.

Oct.8th. 1884.

John Plum, aged 60 of Pentlow, was charged with selling beer without a licence at Pentlow, on the 21st.of Sept. P.C.Street said he searched the premises and found a 18 gallon cask with some beer in it. P.C.Street said he had seen 6 or 7 men going in as though it was a public house. He said he had had complaints of def. selling beer.Def.
also kept a little shop. Fined £ 5 and 17s.6d.costs. The cask was ordered to be destroyed.

Oct.15th. 1884.

A football match was played at Long Melford between the Rev. Colborne's eleven and Mr. Lionel Fisher's eleven, on Mr.Fishers ground .Rev.Colborne's eleven won 1--0.

Oct.15th. 1884

To be sold by auction by Geo.Coote by direction of Mr.Chas.Chinery at Hubbard's Farm Foxearth.--2 cart horses--3 in pig sows--2 tumbrils--ploughs--harrows(nearly new)--rolls--beet pulper-- dressing machine--hand tools--harness.

Nov.5th. 1884

Early on Thurs.morning a fire broke out at Red House, Foxearth, in the occupation of Mr.Ray, resulting in the destruction of 1 stack of wheat, this years produce, no fire engine was in attendance, but the flames were promptly subdued by the labourers on the estate.

SEPT.12TH.1884

.--FOXEARTH HARVEST HOME
The annual harvest home took place on Wed.last the 10th. The church bells began to peel at 6 o'clock in the morning, at about 1-30 p.m. there was a thanksgiving service with various clergy present.The organ was played by Mr.David Ward. A cottager's vegetable show was held in the school, from the school the whole company went to the rectory grounds and were soon settled down to a capital dinner. The rector proposed a toast to " Master's and Men". He said that the toast ought to be heartily received for it meant the banding together of all classes, which was far better than the teachings given them only the previous evening by a delegate of the labourers union, who's teachings simply set class against class. That man had talked a great deal about the reductions in their wages; he said the landlord and the parson would not acccept reductions in their wages; he the speaker, said such statements were untrue. As for the parson, whom the delegate so abused, why at the very time he was being abused, he was making preparations for the men's comfort and happiness that day, and when the tithe day came, a reduction was nearly always given. The representatives of the clergy instead of standing in the way of the labourers vote, which was a charge made by that man against the clergy, they had almost unanimously voted in favour of the franchise bill. The man who was really well off today was the labourer, who was far to wise to agree to share in the profits and loss of the farmers.The rector mentioned that during last harvest, which lasted 22 days, his men had earned £ 8.9s., which was about 7s.9d.a day. He asked the men to think a little before they complained about being hardly dealt by; he begged them not to listen to such words, as they tended to set class against class. The speeches and harvest songs ended, cheers were given to the Rev.and Mrs.Foster. The company dispersed to amusement, football was an attraction but not as great as the " Steam Horses".Tea was provided at 7 o'clock, then dancing.At 11-30 supper.A wish was repeated that the Rector be spared to see many more harvest homes.Prizes--Kidney peas 1 peck- 1st.prize J.Street-2nd.Will.Maxim-3-Will.Maxim. Bushel of potatoes,-1st.J.Street 2nd.W.Maxim 3rd.W.Maxim---24 onions 1st.
J.Street- 2nd.W.Maxim--3rd.Chas.Smith---24 carrots 1st.Chas.Lee-2nd Chas.Smith 3rd.Will.Chinnery.
Note:- According to A.F.J.Brown in his book " Meagre Harvest" published 1990.
This is an account of the establishment of the National Agricultural Labourers Union in north Essex during the last quarter of the 19th.century. " The Rector of Foxearth was commended for letting the local branch of the labourers union hold a meeting in the school room".From the same source;" Foxearth farmers were commended for being less despotic than most".The Borley blacksmith was also commended for making his smithy available for the local branch of the N.A.L.U.
Also from the" Meagre Harvest"-" Farmers attempts to decide on a local rate of wages, often failed when some of the farmers paid a better rate.Some farmers in a particular village lacked the desire to or spirit to enter into a prolonged contest with the local N.A.L.U.branch, Foxearth farmers seem to have fallen into this catergory".
From the Essex Standard-1872-The condition of the farm labourer is as bad as can be, he toils like a slave, lives like a pig and often dies like a dog, with no pleasure but an occasional debauch at the ale house.

Nov.26th. 1884

FOWL STEALING AT LISTON.
Abraham Jackson and John Cross of Glemsford were brought up on remand charged with stealing seven fowls the property of Mrs.Ewer.(Mrs.Ewer farmed at Western Hall in the 1881 census).(G.H.)- James Sparks said I am stockman for Mrs.Ewer and see after the fowls, I saw them safe on Sat.afternoon 1st.Nov., there were 25 then, I missed 7 fowls the next day, one of the doors was broken. P.C.Street said enquiries were made on information received, I went in company of Sergeant Ward of the Suffolk Constabulary and searched the prisoners house but found no fowls.I searched along the railway line and beside the occupation gate I found these feathers, the gate leads from Mrs.Ewers farm to Cross's house about a mile away.I brought both prisoners to the station.--Guilty-3 months hard labour.

Jan.18th 1885

James Yeldham a fish hawker of Sible Hedingham was summoned for assaulting and beating Nun Bareham on the 10th.of Jan.

March 11th. 1885

Claypits- Foxearth-Sale of valuable farm stock by Bidwell and Blencoe on instructions of Miss Coker, who has disposed of the lease.--March 19th.---6 superb cart horses-chestnut geldings-2-3 year old chestnut fillies-road waggon-2 harvest carriages-3 Ward and Silver 3 quarter carts with ladders-12 coulter drill-Burgess and Key 2 horse self delivery reaper-rolls-clod crusher-iron and wood harrows- Warren double furrow plough-3 wooden ploughs and slades-3 h.p.works with intermediate threshing drum, by Ward and Silver-oat and bean mill-chaff cutter-weighing machine and weights-harness -troughs, etc. Sale to commence at 10 a.m.in order to finish before Sudbury market.

March 11th. 1885

Thomas Clark a certificated master at Acton school, has been granted a patent for his improved bee-hive .Pat.no.9794.

Aug.8th 1885

At Hed.Pett.Sess. James Twitchett a dealer of B.St.Pauls was charged with setting fire to a wheat straw stack, valued at £ 50.belonging to J.E.Offord at B.Otten. Sarah Goody, landlady of the Half Moon, said she saw def.in the tap room on the evening of the 26th.of March, he said I will have a gin and then go home, which was towards Tilbury.Horace Martin and Will.Chatters said they met def.and asked him where the fire was, he said he thought it was towards Cady's farm.
Def.said he had just come along the road and came to the Windmill public house when he met Barrel and Whybrow coming from the fire.Geo.Chinnery said he lived at White House and was bailiff to John Eady Offord, he saw the fire at 8.30.p.m.--Commiitted for trial at Hertford assizes.

April 15th. 1885

Death of Rev.H.M.Foster, nephew of Rev.J.Foster, he died at Southsea from typhoid fever aged 27 years, his remains were brought by train to Sudbury then conveyed to Foxearth by road.

April 15th. 1885

An interesting magic lantern show was given in the school room at Borley, by Mr.Geo.Gooderham of Ipswich, the lantern showed good pictures of the war in the Sudan.At the conclusion a few comic pictures of John Gilpin were shown and elicited much laughter.

Oct. 7th.1885. /p>

NEW FRESCOES IN THE CHURCH AT FOXEARTH
We now present a brief account on the subject of decorating the internal wall spaces in the church with polychromic designs.At Foxearth the ecclesiastical authorities have decided to introduce not only Scriptural figures, emblems and the subjects in the stained glass windows, but also on the walls, certainly the effect is very rich and the teachings plain.The chancel was thus treasured some years since, and there are large paintings over the chancel and baptistry arches and now the same plan has been carried out in the body of the church. During the last year the spaces between the windows on the north and south walls have been filled with scriptural scenes and figure paintings in the tableaux, each representing a distinct scene delineated in pictorial rather than conventional medievial style, under a rich canopy, with suitable floral borders.The work was done by a gentleman, who was formerly connected with the firm of Hardmann of London, who painted the rich processionals and the splendid figures in the chancel.On the north side, commencing at the western " return" from the tower are delineated episodes in the lives of SS.Peter and Paul, to whom the church is dedicated, and the parrallelisms in their lives and miracles.The frescoes are as follows; St.Peter raising Dorcas to life; 2 St.Peter raising Eutychus to life; St.Peter released from prison; 4 (large picture)the delivery of the keys to St, Peter;" Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Feed my lambs, feed my sheep; 5, and 6, the conversion of St.Paul;" Saul said," Who art thou Lord?. And the Lord said, I am Jesus. These representations are very vivid and of large size. Crossing the church we find on the south wall, eight descriptive tableaux, which might be called," Stations of the Cross", as under(commencing from the entrance.) 1.Jesus condemned to death; 2. Jesus receives the cross; 3. Jesus falls; 4. The cross laid upon Simon of Cyrene; 5.The women of Jerusalem mourn for Jesus; 6. Jesus stripped of his garments; 7. Jesus is nailed to the cross, 8. Jesus dies on the cross.All the internal walls are now filled with paintings, textures of scripture and symbolic designs; there are larger paintings on the chancel arch, the Saviour in Glory, with the emblems of the Evangelists-and over the Baptistry-the Baptism of Jesus, All the windows have scriptual, so that there are " Sermons in stone" and lessons in glass.The panels of the organ are relieved with beautifully executed paintings of angels bearing musical instruments, and with various designs.Each of the pulpit and altar panels has a rich painting, noted fathers of the church and the preachers being portrayed on the pulpit.These are all of modern execution, but ancient work, judiciously retouched and restored, is seen on the lower panels of the decorated rood screen.The saints here are mostly Saxon, and the male saints are on the south of the entrance gates of the screen, the female saints on the north, it is a curious fact that from time immemorial there has been a separation of the sexes in the church, and that men and women sit on the same sides as that the male and female saints are painted.The figures are dwarfish, and the pavement is out of perspective, consisting of squares of all size like a chess board the figuers are perched on the uppermost row.The first of the female saints is the Virgin or St.Mary, the next being St.Anne, and so on.On the other side St.Edmund the Martyr and other early English saints, an African, however being among the series.A descriptive paper might be written on these ancient figures and symbols.It would require a volume to describe the church, its decorations and furniture.

Oct. 7th.1885.

There has been no straw stacks at Crows Farm, B.Walter.The farm is the premises of Mr.J.Prigg.Mr.Prigg and family and servants were aroused by P.C.Wilsmore who discovered the fire, a good supply of water from the pond saved the situation.

Aug.17th. 1892

The Rev.Pressey has been appointed the new rector of Foxearth, he has been curate for sometime, and is very popular.He took his degree in 1884, at Wadham College Oxford, he was curate at St.Leonards on Sea until 1890.The living is valued at £ 443.

Aug.31st. 1892

Foxearth was the scene of a pretty wedding on Thursday last.The wedding was between Rosalind Elams and Arthur Thomas Henley of Parramanta, South Australia.The bride who was given away by her father, wore a white embroidered robe with a white chip hat and feathers and carried a spray of real orange blossom.there were four bridesmaids, sisters of the bride.A pleasant incidence was a floral triumphant arch across the village street, the first ever.
(Annie Rosalind Elams the eldest of four daughters, lived at Huntsmans Cottages,(Lint Growis), married Arthur Thomas Henley who gave his occupation as a clerk and whos father was a lawyer of Finsbury Park London. Annie's father, Ambrose Elams, gave his occupation as a agricultural labourer (G.H.)

Sept.14th. 1892

Mr.Geo.Unwin brought down with the gun, at Baythorne End, a fine specimen of the dusky petrel.

Sept.21st. 1892

The men of Borley choir had an outing to London, they proceeded to Sudbury station in the rectory carriage. Leadenhall market and Billingsgate fish market were the first to be visited, at the latter one of the fish carriers, although covered in wet and dirt from the fish boxes on his head, spotted the " Borleyites" as country folk, and exclaimed in good humour," This is a great deal better than sitting on a gate post scaring crows".Then a ride on a steamboat on the Thames for a service at Westminster Abbey, then on to Madame Tussauds, then home, a lovely day.

Nov.16th.1892.

The induction of the Rev.R.H.F.Bull took place at Borley on Sunday last, after the ceremony of locking and unlocking of doors was gone through, the bells were tolled, the ceremony was performed by the Rev.H.Blake of C.Hedingham.

Dec.28th. 1992

A serious accident occurred to Mr.J.Offord of Pentlow.He was returning from Cavendish, when his horse took fright of something in the road and became unmanagable, Mr.Offord was thrown violently on to his head, he was conveyed home by a man named Hume.He lies in a precarious state.

Sept.7th. 1892

BRADFIELD'S FARMS, FOXEARTH.
On Sept.20th.by directions of the executors of the late Rev.Foster. The Live and Dead Farming Stock. Steam threshing and other machinery for 600 acres, the estate being sold.-- 24 powerful cart horses, mostly young, and fit for London work, shepherds pony, 10 shorthorn steers, 140 Hampshire breeding ewes, 100 lambs, 3 rams, 150 head of swine, poultry.-2 Crosskill road waggons-5 harvest waggons-7 tumbrils by Ward and Silver, and the Bristol Waggon Co.-pony tumbril, market cart, water cart, timber jim, Two-14 coulter corn and seed drills-2 self binding and delivering reaping machines, Hornsby reaper, Burgess and Co.grass mower, 2 horse rakes, 2 horse hoes, 9 Bentall foot ploughs, 2 mangold ploughs, 2 Cottis horse hoes, patent mangold plough, 4 Cambridge and cylinder rolls, 2 pairs of Bedford harrows, 4 gangs of iron harrows, scarifier, iron fold hurdles, 4 root mincers, weighing machines, bins, troughs, corn bin, waggon cloths.Capital team and plough harness for 24 horses, nearly new steam threshing machinery, 8 h.p.portable engine by Clayton and Shuttleworth, threshing and dressing machinery and straw carrier by Burrell and Co., Maynards and Bentall's chaff cutters. Also from the rectory a four wheeled dog cart, a Bristol dog cart, a Bristol spring luggage cart, with ladders, sets of harness, and other effects.

Sept.21st. 1892

A large gathering of gentry and farmers met at Bradfields Farm, Foxearth, on Tues., the occasion being the sale of live and dead farming stock, by order of the executors of the late Rev.Foster.Mr.Geo.Coote the well known auctioneer, wielded the hammer.The implements realised a very good price.The livestock looked exceedingly well, especially the horses, which were a fine lot and fetched extraordinary high prices, good horses are in great demand.Depper, chesnut mare, 4yrs.Mr.Green,.Cambridge, 65 gns.-Diamond, bay mare, 4yrs.Mr.Sl.Taylor, Hundon, 61 gns.-Doughty, bay mare, 4yrs, Mr.Sl.Taylor, Hundon, 55gns.-Jolly, grey horse, 4yrs, Mr.Brand, Foxearth, 39 gns.-Tinker, black horse, 3yrs, Mr.Coe, Melford, 30gns.-Young Gipsy, black mare, 3yrs.Mr.Brand, 36 gns.-Captain, bay horse, 8 yrs.Mr.Byford, Glemsford, 37 gns.-Peggy, grey mare, 9yrs.Mr.Keeble, Sudbury, 25gns.-Gipsy, black mare, 9 yrs.Mr.Gurteen, Haverhill, 45 gns.-Brisk, chestnut mare, 3yrs.Col.Burke, Bulmer, 37 gns.-Darby, bay mare, 6yrs.Mr.Brand, 55 gns.- Boxer, grey horse, 11 yrs, Mr.Shave, Foxearth, 20 gns.-Short, grey horse, 11 yrs, Mr.Green, Cambridge, 26 gns.-Bay Short, bay horse, 11yrs, Mr.Brand, 25 gns.Smiler, chestnut mare, 11yrs.Mr.Brand, 30© gns,-Dodman, brown horse, Mr.T.Taylor, Gestingthorpe, 27gns.-Scott, chestnut mare, Mr.Mann, Sudbury, 30gns,-Prince, grey horse, Mr.Brand, 18 gns.- Sharper, chestnut horse, Mr.E.Mann, Sudbury, 36© gns.
Bumper, chestnut, Mr.Bell, Colne, 13 gns.-Black yearling cart colt, Mr.W.Downs, Gestingthorpe, 30 gns.-A filly foal, Mr.Byford, 16 gns.-A filly foal, Mr.T.Winn, Glemsford, 11 gns.-Shepherds pony, Mr.Walker, 7© gns.
The shorthorn heifers were sold to Mr.Brand of Foxearth, Hampshire ewes brought 29s.to 18s.a head, half bred ewe and wether lambs averaged 22. a head.

April 13th. 1892

A very successful Artesian bored tube well has just been completed at the well appointed brewery of Messrs. Ward and Son of Foxearth.The work was entrusted to Messrs.Isler and Company, the well known artesian well engineers, of Southwark, London, and has been satisfactorily carried out.Operations commenced in Oct.last year, the bore being carried to nearly 200 ft. Chalk was reached at 52ft.from the surface, this continued till the total depth was reached, the entire strata being then pure chalk throughout. A magnificent supply of water has now been obtained, and being subjected to a most searching analysis by one of the best experts of the day, it is most gratifying that it is perfectly pure, and particulary adapted for brewing purposes, one of the very great and valuable characteristic being that it throws no deposit on boiling.In order to supply the brewery, a special deep well steam pump has been expressly made by Messrs.Barton and Co.of Sudbury, capable of delivering 2.000 gallons of water per hour.This pump is of the most modern type, and some excellent workmanship has been introduced, doing great credit to Messrs.Barton.It is of the deep bucket and plunger principle, counter balanced with rising main, working rods etc.inclosed in bore pipe carried down to the source of supply some 80ft. This system of procuring water is now considered the most perfectly devised yet, the water being pumped pure and bright direct to the tanks at the top of the brewery from the deep water bearing strata, immediately before use.We believe this to be the only arrangement in the neighbourhood.Messrs.Ward and Son must be congratulated on the success that has attended their indomitable pluck and enterprise, as the whole undertaking involved great risk, attended with heavy expense.