January 8th 1870

The licence of the Rose and Crown at Clare was transferred from James Boreham to Charles Willis. 
An application for the transfer of the Millers Arms or the Cricketers at Clare was made for the transfer of the licence from Thomas Boughton to William Grove was refused.

January 29th 1870

Wickhambrook Highway Board. 
The chairman has received a letter from the clerk of the Hedingham Highway Board calling attention to a piece of road leading from Pentlow to Cavendish, it appears the bed of the river forms part of the road and is often impassable. 
The Board considered the question and agreed to appoint three gentlemen from the Board to form a committee to co-operate with three gentlemen from the Hedingham Board to inspect the piece of road and to report to each Board their decision. 
The following gentlemen were appointed as a committee from this Board, Mr Everard of Stansfield, Mr Dennis from Clare and Mr Byford from Glemsford.

This road crossed the river at Paddock Mill (Cavendish Mill). It allowed corn to be carted from Essex to the mill, but was not much used by other traffic.

January 29th 1870

The Rector the Rev C.J. Martyn and Mrs Martyn arrived at the Melford Rectory from Cheltenham on Thursday morning, the village bells rang forth a merry peal and the inhabitants living near the rectory displayed buntings and banners in honour of their new Rector.

February 12th 1870

There was an accident at Clare on Thursday last, a lad named Smith was assisting at a horse powered threshing machine when unfortunately his trousers got caught by the revolving spindle.
Before the machine could be stopped it is supposed his head came in contact with the ground 30-40 times. Mr Smith, surgeon, attended as soon as possible but the poor fellow who is about 16 died on the Monday afterwards.

February 19th 1870

Married at St Mary's church, Cavendish, James Bocock at Astley Cambs.to Fanny the eldest daughter of John Ewer of Pannels Ash farm, Pentlow.

March 19th 1870

Jane Abbot, servant, was charged with stealing stockings, a pair of drawers, petticoat and a jelly glass the property of William Mills, farmer of 300 acres at Rodbridge farm, Melford. 
Mr Cherry for the prosecution said he did not intend to proceed with the prosecution of Jane Abbot and she was found not guilty at the same time John Pipe a railway porter was charged with receiving stolen goods. 
9 months hard labour.

March 19th 1870

There was a fatal accident at Hawkedon. A man employed as horseman at Mr George Webb's farm at Wickhambrook and was proceeding to Melford with a wagon and horses when passing over Hawkedon Green the horses became frightened by some bricks or tiles lying on the green beside the road, they suddenly turned round, by doing so one of the wheels passed over the unfortunate man who was killed on the spot. 
Some men employed at Hawkedon Hall heard the wagon go past and soon returned, they went onto the road and found deceased quite dead, his body was conveyed to the Queen Inn. 
Accidental.

March 26th 1870

Wickhambrook Highway Board. The committee appointed to report on the highway lying between Pentlow and Cavendish and resolve the following 
"The state of the highway passing along the river is dangerous. We consider it to be expedient that a bridge be built over the original site of the river dividing the two counties of Suffolk and Essex and at joint expense of the two Boards. In order to carry out the plan the present river must be diverted and a piece of ground on one side will be required of Spurling and the other of Offord."

Of course, nothing happened!

March 26th 1870

Died on the 18th inst aged 39 years, Susannah, beloved wife of William Ambrose of Wales farm, Cavendish and the second daughter of the late John Root of Gosbecks, Stanway, she leaves a large family to lament her loss.

April 9th 1870

On Saturday afternoon, James Hurell 45 and William Hurrell 25 bricklayers of Ballingdon wre apprehended by Supt Sach on suspicion of being involved in robbery at Brundon Flour Mill, Sudbury.
For a long time this mill has been shut, during this period the mill and the mill house has been ransacked although everything valuable had been removed. 
On Monday it was discovered that a copper valued at 20s had been carried off, it was found at James Harley's marine store in Sepulchre street, Mr Harley referred to his books and found he purchased it from James and William Hurell. 
Bail was allowed on sureties.

April 16th 1870

On Friday last, Thomas Turner, horseman in the employ of Mr Hawkins of Milden, was driving with two horses and a wagon when near Mr Carlton's farm at Gt Waldingfield when he fell from the wagon where he was sitting on some guano when one of the fore wheels went over him, killing him on the spot
He was suffering from indigestion and was riding on the day he had taken more beer than usual. He lost consciousness and fell off near the Compasses Inn. 
Natural death.

April 16th 1870

On Saturday afternoon as a man named Ralling was driving his wagon and horses down Clare Hill ,the animals started off and the reins broke, he fell to the ground breaking his arm, the horses stopped without further damage. 
Ralling was attended by Mr Smith, surgeon, and conveyed home to Birdbrook where he died on Sunday night.
he was 74 years of age and in the service of Mr Smooth of Birdbrook.

April 23rd 1870

To be sold. A freehold beerhouse lying in Burkitt's Lane, Sudbury, known as the Three Horseshoes together with blacksmith's shop and two substantial cottages.

May 14th 1870

About half past 4 on Sunday afternoon a destructive fire broke out at Rectory farm, Shimplingthorne, the property of the Rev Bolton and in occupation of Mr Hanchett.
A few minutes later a number of persons were on the spot and Chadacre Fire Engine was in attendance, the premises are situated on high ground and has a sombre wood behind, the entire homestead (excluding a small new granary and it's contents) were reduced to ashes including a large wheat stack of 100 coombs, portions of two haystacks, all the implements and 10 fat pigs were destroyed. 
We have no doubt it was the work of an incendiary. A lad named Fairweather employed by Mr Hanchett was at first suspected but since interrogation by the police officers suspicion has subsided and another lad named Tatham has been apprehended by Inspector Keeble and conveyed to Melford police station.

May 14th 1870

Boxted. The majority of John Weller Poley was celebrated on Wednesday the 25th by a festive gathering at the Hall.
The labourers and their wives were entertained in a large tent in front of the mansion, at two o' clock they were regaled with a substantial dinner of beef, mutton and plum pudding, in the afternoon prizes were distributed by lottery consisting of wearing apparel, tea was provided in the evening which brought the treat to a close and the company separated with expressions of good wishes to the young squire's future happiness.

June 11th 1870

A meeting of Glemsford Mat and Mat Weaving Association was held at the Greyhound Inn on Tuesday in aid of the movement to abolish steam power and hand labour from the prisoners and workhouses which has been found to be injurious to legitimate trade and free labour.
A long discussion ensued between the committee and Mr Walter Allen who was sent as a deputation from Glemsford weavers to the London Association.
There was also a meeting of Melford cocoa mat weavers at the Bull Inn on the injury caused by introducing steam and hand labour into prisons to the injury of the weavers.

June 11th 1870

Alfred Adams of Stanstead was charged with damaging a window of a house occupied by Mr Ellis of Stanstead
Defendant admitted the charge and in answer to the Bench said it occurred at about one in the morning as he was returning from Hartest Fair and he threw some stones. 
6s 6d-1s damages and 8s 6d costs.

June 11th 1870

Alfred Ives a blacksmith of Pentlow was charged with refusing to leave the Bull Inn at Cavendish on the 29th inst when required he being drunk and disorderly.

May 21st 1870

Charles Tatum 22 labourer of Cockfield and George Fairweather labourer of Shimpling were charged with setting fire to farm premises occupied by Richard Hansett of Shimpling. 
Mr Walpole said he did not dispute the facts that were brought upon the case but there was no reasonable grounds for believing the fire was occasioned by malicious intent. The Bench retired to consult and they decided to grant remand for a fortnight.

May 28th 1870

The Bench decided to discharge both prisoners in the above case, telling Tatum he had had narrow escape as the fire was probably caused by him smoking a pipe but it must be proved it had been the caused wilfully.
He must be more careful in the future and not go near farm buildings with a pipe.

May 28th 1870

Advert. To all blacksmiths, wheelwrights and others. 
To be sold on the premises near Cavendish Green. The valuable stock in trade. 3 new tumbrels-5 new wheel barrows-pony chaise-2000 ft of well seasoned timber-6 inch oak planks-1000 oak spokes-150 fellooes, to be sold by orders of the proprietor who is relinquishing the business.

May 28th 1870

10 sheep were stolen from Mr Cornell's farm at Stoke by Clare about 3 weeks ago and two men named Jolly have been arrested and are now lodged in the police station at Clare
They sent the carcass to London, the salesman there communicated with the police which led to their apprehension.

June 25th 1870

Cricket. Boxted v Clare. The game was won by Boxted with 101 runs to spare. Clare-T. Hammond 1 and 0-G.Hammond 2 and 1-H.Gee 1 and 3-J. Chinery 5 and 6-M.Cutts 0 and 0. L. Steed 8 and 9-F.W.Gee 0 and 1-J.Deeks 0 and 1-G.Southey 0 and 3-J.Fowley 1 and 0. Byes 7. Total 17 and 81. Boxted----C.J.Campbell 48 and 6-D.Alston 18 and 1-J.Josling 22 and 0-T.Alston 16 and 0-Rev Sheep 28 and 1-H.Cadge 5. Byes 30. Total?.

July 2nd 1870

Jottings from American Paper. 
Boston church goers complain if their ministers keep using such big words they will be compelled to carry dictionaries as well as prayer books. 
As a Western Coroner's Jury returned a verdict that the deceased died from exposure 
"what do you mean by that " asked a relative of the dead man, "there are two bullet holes in his skull!" 
The Coroner replied with a wave of his hand, just so he died from exposure to a bullet.

July 9th 1870

Thomas Jolly, carrier, aged 26 and Joseph Jolly, 20, innkeeper, were charged with stealing 10 sheep from Joseph Cornell of Stoke by Clare on the 6th of May. 15 months hard labour each.

July 16th 1870

The practice of cutting hair from horses tails and manes while grazing has been freely indulged in at the neighbourhood of Clare, on Wednesday night the detestable proceedings were performed on a farm at Ashen.

July 23rd 1870

Died on may 18th at Adelaide, South Australia, Thomas Bird formerly of Bulmer, Essex.

August 6th 1870

To be sold at Kedington, Suffolk
--A Windmill and house with a five bushel oven-garden-stable-cart-shed, etc, apply to James Rumball at the above address.

August th 1870

The Balsham murder. 
(Abrv) Jacob Ling 20 was charged with murdering Anna Maria Chenery of Balsham on the 6th of June. 
Robert Fisher, shoemaker of Ringfield which is two miles up the road from Beccles, said, 
"My road from Beccles to Ringfield would be by Raids road and a footpath known as Jordan's Loke, there is a high fence on the bank either side, I was at Beccles on Monday 6th of June"
"I was returning home through Jordan's Loke and about nine yards from the entrance I came upon a body of a woman, I went up to the body supposing she was asleep, I shook it and called out "hollo what are you doing here" there was no answer, I shook her again, I took hold of her hand to feel the pulsation of the wrist but could not find it, I pressed her side to see if her heart was beating, I put my face to her mouth to see if I detected breathing, I did not know if her clothing was disordered, I found a umbrella near the body, I gave information to the police."

August 13th 1870

Thomas Scrivener was charged with beastiality with a mare at Gt Cornard, Sudbury on May 21st, the jury returned a verdict of guilty of an attempt and his Lordship said if he was found guilty of the more serious offence it would mean penal servitude for the rest of his natural life but he would go to prison for 18 months with hard labour.

August 13th 1870

William Mitchell, 44, labourer of Melford was charged with stealing one coomb and two pockets of malt the property of Thomas Ardley on 23rd of June at Melford, Charles Cobbold 55, dealer was charged with receiving the same known to be stolen.
Thomas Ardley said he farmed at Melford and Mitchell had been in his service as foreman for 16 years in July 
I was his duty to feed bullocks kept at the home farm in a malting, the Lower farm is about 60 yards from the Home farm. 
9 months hard labour for each.

August 13th 1870

Inquest at the Railway tavern at Cotton? 
On William Beecher, a lad of 14 years, deceased was at work in a wheat field with William Clover, he left that night at 7 and went home, after eating his supper he was taken ill between 12 and 1 with purging and vomiting, Dr Cuthbert of Mendlesham said he thought it was peritonitis. 
Natural causes.

August 27th 1870

Died. After a few days illness aged 82, William Cadge for upwards of 20 years manager of the farming business of John Andrews of Wales End, Cavendish.

August 27th 1870

Bernard Brockwell and Harry Twinn of Glemsford were charged with being on premises with intent of committing a felony, Brockwell was further charged with assaulting Mr Deaves who said I live at Scates Hill farm, Glemsford,
'I keep a great many hens there, I have missed many lately, on the night of 30th of July at about 10 I was in a stable watching close to partition boards, I saw Brockwell creeping close on the other side and then Twinn creeping behind him, they were whispering "are there any sitting this way", I watched defendants for about 14 minutes, then I crept through the yard and called " Lambert do you stop them", when I felt a blow to the face, it was Brockwell.'
Twinn was dismissed and Brockwell sentenced to 6 weeks hard labour.

September 3rd 1870

Stanstead. The Rev G. Lyon Turner preached his last farewell service at the Congregational Chapel on Sunday evening last to a numerous attentive audience.

September 10th 1870

Alfred Watkinson of Glemsford was charged with refusing to contribute to the support of his wife and five children now chargeable to Sudbury Union. 14 days.

September 10th 1870

Joseph Josling, farmer of Cockfield was charged with assaulting Ellen wife of John Tatum, railway labourer
Complainant said she was in a number of gleaners waiting in a field belonging to defendant waiting to go gleaning when defendant rode up on his horse and said "you need not wait here for this belongs to my gatherers to glean,"
'I said "if they glean we glean" he said "will you,you b----- ", and he struck me with a whip across my back.' 
2s 6d with 9s 6d costs.

October 1st 1870

For sale. At the Park and Coopwell farms at Boxted near Glemsford. By direction of the administratrix of Thomas Harvey, deceased and W. B. Harvey. The live and dead stock-13 horses-two young hackney's-13 milch cows-14 heifers-young stock-80 ewes and lambs-25 swine-100 poultry-three road wagons-4 tumbrils-donkey tumbril-implements for 250 acres-brewing and dairy equipment including 10 sweet beer stands-400 lots.

October 1st 1870

Wickhambrook Highway Board. The clerk read the minutes of the last meeting and discussion took place relative to the bridge over the river running between Pentlow and Cavendish, it appears Hedingham Highway Board are in favour of having the work done under the surveyance of their own surveyor, 
Mr Byford said they should appoint a man at the joint expense of the two Boards, after discussion the proposition agreed to "that this Board is of the opinion that it is not advisable to have the bridge built by two persons therefore this Board adheres to the original proposition that it should be carried out by one competent person".

October 22nd 1870

Abraham Savage, labourer of Cavendish was charged with stealing 52 lbs of old iron the property of George Leech of Houghton Hall, Cavendish
 David Elmor said 
'I am farm bailiff to Mr Leech of Houghton Hall, on the 6th of this month P.C. Bullet came to me and we went into a meadow called "Empty Meadow" where I had some wheels laying and found them gone, I had seen them there 2 or 3 days ago before, there is a footpath running through the meadow, I afterwards went to Bullett's house and saw the iron, which I identified as my master's property. Robert Bullett said I saw the prisoner coming towards my house on the highroad, he had a sack on his back which appeared laden, I said "what have you got there Savage", he said what I have got I have paid for, I said if he had come by them honestly he would have them back, I went to Houghton Hall and saw the last witness, we went to "Empty Meadow", we saw what was taken it was my master's property.'
Committed.

October 29th 1870

Abraham Savage of Cavendish was sentenced to 6 months prison for stealing 52 lbs of cast iron at Cavendish and cautioned if he came up again he would he would certainly be sent for penal servitude.

October 29th 1870

Wanted. A coachman who drives a pair of horses and will make himself generally useful when required. If married a cottage will be provided, if single to board and lodgings in the village. 
Apply at Hawstead House near Bury St Edmunds to Mr Medcalfe. In the first instance by letter giving full particulars.

October 29th 1870

To Brewers, dealers and others. 
To be sold by auction a freehold roadside Inn at Bulmer, Sudbury on the 31st of October, in one let a fully licensed old established free public house known as the Plough Inn now in occupation of Mr Nice, the proprietor. 
The property contains tap room-pantry-small bar-large kitchens-scullery with oven-malt room-6 bed chambers-detached brewhouse-large farmyard-farm buildings consisting of stables for 6 horses-chaise house-cowshed-calf pens-open shed-poultry house-brick and slate barn-piggeries-granary-capital well with pump. A good trade has been carried on by the present and late proprietors family for near 100 years and the situation is such that in the hands of an active man a very large trade can be done there being no other public house on this road within several miles. 
The auctioneer wishes to call the attention of jobbers, poultrymen and dealers to the above property for which the very substantial farm buildings and the situation abutting upon the extensive green render it desireable, the fixtures in the dwelling house to be taken at a sum which would be named at the time of the sale.

November 5th 1870

Shimpling Windmill for sale, lately occupied by Mr Butcher, to be removed by the purchaser's own expence.

November 5th 1870

Clare, Suffolk. On Monday last the following properties are to be sold at Clare Half Moon.
 Lot 1-Estate known as "Darnicles" or "Graingers" with "Lewis farm" situated in Poslingford and Stansfield containing 57 acres 12 perches tithe free in occupation of J.Ward, Poslingford.

November 12th 1870

There was an accident at Milden on Friday to Mr Moyse, farm bailiff to Mr Harwood of Belsted Hall. Mr Moyse was attacked by an infuriated bullock which knocked him down, kicking and seriously injuring his head, one of the hoofs going through the cheek of the prostrate man.
Assistance was at hand and he was rescued and is progressing favourably.

November 12th 1870

There was a large meeting of the cocoa nut weavers of Glemsford and the neighbourhood on Friday evening in the parish to discuss the present position of the trade and question whether "the prisons of this country are to be turned into steam factories to the great injury of honest artisans".
The meeting was addressed by Mr Odger of London, after the address the resolution was moved "that the meeting is of the opinion that the use of steam machinery to aid convict labour is prejudicial to the interests of the honest workmen who have to live by the industry and the goods manufactured by prisoners should be brought on to the open market to compete with free labour". 
Between 400-500 men attended the meeting.

December 3rd 1870

Cuttings from American paper. 
A Hudson City genius tried a flying machine of his own invention the other day, it is feared he will be permanently deformed. 
A Texas Sherrif has been removed because say the local journals "he reported too many prisoners killed while resisting arrest.".

December 3rd 1870

John Suttle of Glemsford was charged by the Supervisor of Excise for having in his possession a gun without a licence. The Bench said considering the circumstances he would be fined 20s as there are new regulations.

December 3rd 1870

Job Suttle and Alfred Farrance aged 13 years respectively were charged with stealing several prayer books from Glemsford church belonging to H.Cross and others. 
To receive 6 strokes of the birch rod each.

December 3rd 1870

On Sunday morning at about 1 o' clock a man named George Brett of Cavendish was found by P.C.Bullet lying near the Five Bells Inn and upon inquiry he found Brett had been quarrelling with a man named Wells and had fallen down during the quarrel and broke the small bone in his leg.
Bullet called the landlord who had retired to bed and got him into the Inn. Dr Waring set the broken limb and he is progressing favourably.

December 17th 1870

Wickhambrook Highway Board. Erection of bridge over the Stour between Pentlow and Cavendish. The following proposition was unanimously agreed 
"that this Board is willing to abide by the decision of the joint committee of the two Boards but before the work can be satisfactorily executed by two persons acting in different interests declines to any further steps in the matter unless Hedingham Board will agree to the appointment of one independent professional man to act between them and be jointly paid by the two Boards."

December 17th 1870

Inquest at the Swan Inn at Lawshall on William Nunn aged 18 who met his death under the following circumstances...
It appears that on Thursday last deceased who is employed by Thomas Sergeant, farmer of Lawshall, was required to remove some old wine from the cellar to an upper room. About 1 o' clock he left the farm with another lad named Thomas Farrow to go to dinner, as they were crossing Mr Sargeant's meadow the latter fell down in the meadow and on his companion telling him to "come on" he replied " don't stop for me and don't say anything about this", he said he drained some spirits out of the bottles.
Farrow left him but did not see him when he returned to the farmhouse. A search was made in the fields and ditches but he was not found until 7 next morning in a dry ditch by the side of the meadow where Farrow had left him, his body nearly was covered in snow. 
Mr George King, surgeon, made a post mortem and found no external signs of violence and had no doubt that as he had apoplectic tendencies his neck was swollen and his neck cloth strangled him. 
Died from apoplexy.

February 4th 1871

Bury Corn Market. Wheat to 52s 7d-Barley to 37s 10d.

February 4th 1871

The annual Cavendish tradesmen's meeting and tea took place at the Bull Inn on Thursday evening last, a beautiful repast was served in capital style for the company of 20-30 by Mr Deeks the landlord. 
The chair was taken by Mr Evans with Mr J. Rice jun. taking the vice, ample justice was done to the viands, health's were drunk and songs sung.

February 18th 1871

400 large larch trees for sale on the Coldham Hall estate by instructions from R. Holt Lomax esq. 400 larch poles, 35 nave and other elm timbers-stands-2000 faggots-stack of upland hay of 8 tons. Sale tomorrow in "Cooks Pasture" on the east side of the park.

February 25th 1871

Lavenham Horse Fair. The first fair of the year was held at Lavenham on Thursday, a large number of dealers were in attendance from all parts of the country, it was the most successful fair for many years and anything possessing points were snapped up at high prices, a large amount of business was done.
Ward and Silver of Melford exhibited agricultural implements, tumbrils, waggons etc and Mr Dupont of Bures St Mary also exhibited articles for agriculture purposes.

February 25th 1871

Botesdale. On Friday last a sad accident happened to a boy of 10 named Fordham while driving a horse in a chaff cutting machinery belonging to Mr Symonds of Botesdale.
He was walking behind the horse and the spindle caught his trousers pulling his head down and breaking his leg, it was thought the leg would have to be amputated, chloroform was administered and two inches of bone was cut away and the leg was set by Dr Pearce and the boy is doing well.

March 4th 1871

Died at Pentlow, Essex, on the 24th inst. The Rev Edward Bull aged 68 years.

March 4th 1871

Abrv. On Saturday last at about noon a double cottage at Stanstead situated in a secluded spot near Stanstead Great Wood was discovered to be on fire
It was first observed by a boy in the wood nearby who raised the alarm and with the help of labourers who were at work near at hand they prevented the flames spreading by pulling the thatch off so comparatively little damage was done, the cottages belong to the Kentwell Hall estate are built of clay and had no upper storey so the thatch was in reach. 
Suspicion pointed to a woman who lived in the first cottage by the name of Crissel and after an investigation Inspector Keeble apprehended her.

March 11th 1871

Died at Wales End farm, Cavendish, at the advanced age of 86, John Andrews, farmer.

March 11th 1871

Sudbury. The rite of baptism was performed by immersion publicly near the Croft bridge on Sunday morning. 
The Rev Mr Debenham of Chelmsford, Minister Of The Particular Baptist Chapel, New Street, Chelmsford officiated, the candidate being a female, a large crowd assembled to witness the ceremony but good order was kept, the Rev gentleman made an appeal for quietude and was about to give the scripture readings for the rite when a large retriever dog ran into the river.
Mr Debenham said this reminded of a similar occasion when a young man swore how he would be the next one baptised on the ensuing Sabbath, before that day arrived the young man got tipsy and fell in the river and was baptised in death.

March 11th 1871

Harriet, wife of Charles Crissel of Stanstead was charged with setting fire to their cottage the property of Mr E.S. Bence of Kentwell Hall. 
William Steward aged 15 said ...
'I live with my father near Stanstead wood, on the 25th of March I was catching rats in the wood about 800 yards from Moslem Cottages where the prisoner lived, it was about 11-30 when I heard someone call out "fire", I thought it was my little brother and a little girl named Howe who was at the cottages, I went within three yards of the cottages and saw fire running up the thatch and sparks, at he back of the cottages. I noticed it looked black under the eaves, the prisoner lives in the one that was on fire, my mother came up when I did and sent me for my father to tell him there was a fire, there was about eight persons there throwing water on the fire, I helped the girl Howe to get her things out at the back door next to the house, I did not go to the front of the house, I did not see any of Crissel's things got out, about one hour before I saw the prisoner in her house'
 Sarah Ann Howe said ...
'I am nine years old and live near the Great Wood next door to the witness with my father Thomas Howe, I have an uncle Henry who lives at Moslem Cottages, last Saturday I was playing in the wood with Abraham Steward, I saw a fire at the top of Mrs Crissel's window, I called "fire", I saw Mrs Crissel come out of the wood with a pail and go round the corner of the front of the house with a pail to get some water from a spring.'
Remanded.

April 8th 1871

Harriet, wife of Charles Crissel appeared at Melford Petty sessions on the charge of setting fire to Moslem Cottages, Stanstead on the 25th of February. 
Discharged.

March 18th 1871

To ship builders and others. For sale at Wiggery Wood, Gestingthorpe. 
Superb standing oak timber of first rate quality and large size to be sold by auction at the Rose and Crown, Sudbury, 200 very superior oak timber with the usual credit, trees can be seen on application to William Turner at Hill Farm, Gestingthorpe

April 1st 1871

A very interesting lecture was given at the Anatheum at Bury on Thursday evening last by Lord John Hervey, the subject being Robert Bloomfield the Suffolk poet a farmer's boy from Honington, his lordship compared him to Robert Burns, the Ayrshire ploughman, remarking that what Burns did for Scotland, Bloomfield did with less fervid genius in his humbler sphere for his native county.

April 15th 1871

At the census returns the enumerator found the parish of Long Melford contains 3045 persons an increase of 175 during the last ten years. 
The enumerator of Cavendish showed an increase of 90 over the last ten years there being 1,888 of which 667 are males and 721 females.

April 22nd 1871

For sale at Bures Hamlet---Pricket's Hall otherwise Jenny's farm-62 acres of arable and pasture---farm house and two cottages, by direction of the executors of the late Charles Townsend deceased.

April 22nd 1871

Died. From consumption on the 18th inst of consumption, John Firmin Orbell of Goldingham Hall, Bulmer, Essex .

April 22nd 1871

John Suttle of Glemsford was sued for assaulting P.C. Fenton. 
J.G. Steed said he was at a polling place for the election of the school board at Glemsford when he saw Alfred Fisher leave the poll place followed by a large crowd and they got him down, "I saw P.C. Fenton release him, I saw defendant go up to Fenton and put his fist within 2-3 inches of his face and threatened to smash his face if he interfered with him that day, Suttle accused Fenton of striking a man which he denied, Fenton threw himself back to avoid the blow. "
1 month hard labour.

May 6th 1871

Advert. Wanted---Two young men who have a knowledge of moulding can have a situation as improvers by applying to Rueben Hunt of the Atlas Works at Earls Colne, Essex.

May 6th 1871

Tenants Dinner. 
The tenant occupiers of Mr J.S.Garret had their annual dinner on Friday evening last at the Lecture Hall in Cavendish, at about 7 about 60 people sat down to a capital dinner consisting of boiled and roasted joints, plum puddings etc.
The chair was taken by the much respected squire and the vice chair by J.E.Page, on removal of the cloth the chairman gave health to the royal family which was duly honoured after which the health of Mr J.S.and Mrs Garret was proposed by Mr Thooughgood of Pentlow
The company was entertained by capital songs from J.E.Page, E. Hammond and G.Wells till about 11 0' clock.

May 6th 1871

Thomas Bourne of Gt Waldingfield was charged by P.C. Simpson who said on the morning of the 28th inst 
"I saw about 40 sheep lying and feeding by the roadside in Acton, the land on one side is occupied by Mr Bourne on the other by the parish allotments, a large number were on the allotment sides, I asked a boy who's they were, he told me. Defendant said sometime ago I was told not to allow my cattle to feed on the roadside but I have since seen my neighbour's cattle feeding there."
 5s with 4s 6d costs.

May 6th 1871

Susan, wife of Abraham Savage of Cavendish was charged with stealing 2s 3d , 1 lb of salt pork, 6 squibs of tobacco valued at 1s the property of Mr J.Deeks of the Bull Inn, Cavendish, the prisoner was employed as a charwoman. 
21 days hard labour.

May 20th 1871

Cuttings from American papers. 
It is shameful the way game is slaughtered in the prairie states, it is said that tons of birds of the choice kind are shot and snared out of season and finding no market for them they are boiled down and fed to the hogs.

May 20th 1871

To builders, timber merchants and others. To be sold at the Liston Haltimber on the 30th of May. 50 good oaks-100 ash and straddles as now lying at the Foxearth entrance to Liston Hall Park where the company are respectfully required to meet the auctioneer at 12 noon.

June 10th 1871

Married on the 1st inst at Gt Yeldham, Charles Freeman of Barret Hall, Gt Maplestead to Emma the youngest daughter of Frances Whitlock of Lovingtons, Gt Yeldham.

June 10th 1871

Bacton.
On Monday a sprightly youth of 60 years with an old lady of under 20 summers went to Stowmarket and were made one, they returned to Bacton where the bride's father had prepared entertainment. 
In the course of the afternoon a slight affair brought out the gentleman's temper so much that he was quickly expelled from the house, his wife declare she would have no more do with him where a few hours before she promised to love and obey him, on Thursday she packed up and went to London to seek a situation, the husband is very desolate and very few pity him.

June 10th 1871

At a cricket match at Fenners, Cambridge, the Gemtlemen of England played the Combined Universities it ended in favour of the gentlemen who won by an innings and four runs, the famous cricketer, W.G. Grace playing for the gentlemen put upon the score the extraordinary amount of 162 runs in admirable style.

June 17th 1871

On Monday morning fire broke out at Hermitage farm, Clare, the flames spread so rapidly that the whole of the buildings was one mass of flames before the engines could arrive, the distance being only ½ a mile from the town, the dwelling house was saved but the whole buildings were destroyed including a quantity of straw and 7 ½ acres of flax.
The house was occupied by two families who providently escaped the fire, some of their furniture was broken when it was brought down in a great hurry in moving it from the bedroom floors Especially. 
The cause of the fire is unknown.

July 8th 1871

The 16th great lamb sale will be held on July 8th at Kesgrave with 3,300 lambs and sheep for sale.

July 8th 1871

James Jarman was charged with stealing 25 lbs of horse hair from Henry Knolled at Glemsford. Not guilty.

July 29th 1871

John Slater, labourer of Glemsford was charged with being drunk and riotous on the 16th inst. Dismissed.

August 5th 1871

John Argent aged 24, shoemaker of Stansfield was charged with stealing a quantity of young fowls from Martin Slater of Stansfield. 6 months hard labour.

August 26th 1871

On Tuesday evening at about 8 a light was seen in Clare to the North East, it was assumed it was a large fire, several horses were "put to" to ascertain the whereabouts of the conflagration, it turned out to be a certain party burning off flax stubble at Houghton Hall about 1 ½ miles from the town.

September 2nd 1871

Wanted. Man to work a windmill, one who thoroughly understands his trade, a single man would be considered. Apply to Mr D. Death of Barrow.

September 2nd 1871

Cuttings from American papers. 
A bitter quarrel has been caused in Maine by the practice of some members taking their dogs to church with them, the choir has refused to sing if the dogs are not excluded.

September 2nd 1871

Clare. 
Mr Jarvis, a cowkeeper of Clare had noticed that his cow had "fell off" recently very considerably in his supply of milk, he could not account for this, one day he took a walk on the common and actually noticed a boy milking his precious liquid into his capacious mouth.

September 9th 1871

Cavendish. To be sold a private residence known as the "Old Rectory" with greenhouses ---paddock and orchard.

September 9th 1871

Honour Wright aged 16 years of Shimpling was charged with stealing two pairs of shoes, sheets and other articles valued at 5s from her employer Mr David Crick of Glemsford, Mr Crick said the prisoner had lived in my service for six weeks, I took her from the Union House, she did not suit me and I gave her one weeks notice. 1 month's hard labour.

September 16th 1871

On Tuesday afternoon at about 5 as Mr Orbell of Sudbury was driving a horse and cart from Bury when near Cockfield by some means he fell off the cart receiving several cuts on the forehead, the horse proceeded for two miles but was stopped by a man and taken back. 

With assistance Mr Orbell proceeded on his journey.

September 30th 1871

Vincent Knock, labourer of Hundon was convicted on a charge of getting drunk and threatening to assault his master, Mr Taylor of Hundon Hall. 5s with 7s 6d costs.

September 30th 1871

William Lane aged 7 years was charged with setting fire to a haystack at Gt Thurlow the proerty of Mr G.F. Josling, the boy was minding pigs near the stack when the alarm was given. 
Discharged as being too young to wilfully commit the act.

October 7th 1871

On Saturday evening there was an inquest at the Town Hall, Sudbury, on a young man named Ephraim Salter a bricklayer of Melford.
It transpired that on December 29th though living in Melford he was working in Sudbury, last Saturday morning he came to Sudbury for that purpose but owing to the inclement weather he was unable to work
He went to the Oak Inn and drank two half pints of beer, on coming out of the Oak he met an old accomplice named Daniel Plum of Pentlow who was driving home with a horse and cart
Deceased asked him if he could give him a ride as far as the toll gate on Melford road, which he did but on arriving opposite the Rifleman's Arms the unfortunate man was seen to fall back in a fit, Plum asked for assistance and the landlord of the Rifleman's Arms got deceased out of the cart and placed him in a chair in the tap room and administered a glass of brandy
The poor man never rallied and died in a few minutes. Natural death .

October 7th 1871

Henry Copeman and James Thompson of Cavendish and Jonathan Johnson of Pentlow were charged with being in a beerhouse kept by Stephen Rice at Cavendish during prohibited hours. Copeman and Thompson 2s 8d each with 2s 4d costs, John son 8s with 4s 4d costs.

October 7th 1871

Cricket. Sudbury v Melford. Melford. H. Allen 5-T.Ardley 1-C. Coldham 0-C. Burke 8-C.Bowyer 1-C.Purvis 0-C. Spilling 0-H.Carter 0---Rev Bigg 2-Rev Martyn n.o. 4-Byes 4.-Total 37. Sudbury-A.Sims 1-E.Green 1-L. Andrews 0-W. Baker 1-G. Chapman 4-G. Rollinson 0-R. Andrews 2-Brown n. o. 1-J. Grose 4-H. Baker 6-G.Whorlow 0-Byes 4-Total 24.

October 21st 1871

From America. 
Brigham Young was arrested this afternoon upon the indictment of the grand jury charged with having under the Utah Statute of lewdly and licentiously cohabitated with 16 different women.

November 4th 1871

Henry Jaggs, labourer of Milden was charged with riding on the shafts of a tumbril drawn by two horses on the highway at Monk's Eleigh. 
£1 with 6s costs.

November 18th 1871

John Mortlock of Cavendish was charged with setting a trap for the purpose of taking a hare. 
Dismissed.

November 25th 1871

Inquest at Melford . 
Elizabeth Mills said "My sister and I live in a close near Melford Green, my sister has a little boy living with us, I have lately been confined, the body you have seen is my child, it laid in the bed between my sister and me, at about two in the morning I gave it the breast and it dropped off to sleep, about six I awoke, the child was dead."
 Died from suffocation.

December 2nd 1871

Christmas meat for sale at the auction mart Bury. W.T.Simpson's sale of Christmas meat on Wednesday the 13th---150 prime oxen-300 fat sheep.

December 30th 1871

Charles Adams, sexton at Glemsford church and David Suttle of Glemsford were charged with cutting and damaging holly trees grown in a plantation in Boxted Hall Park to the extent of 5s. 5s each with 7s each costs.