Chapter C: C. Aldred, Esq., appointed a Justice of the Peace for East Suffolk in (2)

Sept. 23rd. Lieut. F. A. Newington, R.M.L.I., of H.M.S. “Sultan,” after leaving a ball at the Town Hall, jumped into the river and rescued from drowning two women who had fallen overboard while in the act of landing from the steamtug “Victoria,” at 3.30 a.m. A public subscription amounting to £47 5s. 6d. was afterwards got up, and Mr. Newington was presented with a breach-loading gun, value £34, and an illuminated testimonial, for his bravery; on Nov. 17th he was also presented with a sword by the officers of his ship.

Oct. 1st. First annual meeting of the Young Men’s Christian Association held at the Town Hall.

Oct. 7th. Sir Thos. W. B. Proctor Beauchamp, Bart., died at Langley Park, aged 59.

Oct. 18th. The Rev. T. Allnut, after eight years’ ministration in Gorleston, preached his farewell sermons at St. Andrew’s Church, in that Parish. On May 14th, 1875, was instituted to the Rectory and Parish Church of Stibbard, Norfolk.

Oct. 19th. The smack “Alert,” of this port, run into by the full-rigged ship “Edith,” in the North Sea, and foundered. Two hands were drowned.

Oct. 20th. Mr. W. J. Lincoln appointed Town Hall keeper in place of Mr. G. Harvey, resigned.

Oct. 29th. The settlement of the Rev. Arthur Peaton, as Unitarian Minister at the Old Meeting, Middlegate Street, in the place of the late Rev. R. Shelley, decided by a public meeting.

Oct. H. R. Harmer, Esq., captured, on Hoveton Broad, a pike 8 ft. 1 in. in length, and weighing 15 lbs. It was presented to the Mayor.

Oct. The Misses Pearson and MacLaughlin received the War Medal granted by the Emperor of Germany. (See Sept., 1870.)

Nov. 7th. The Lowestoft, Yarmouth, and Southtown Tramway Company wound up by order of the Master of the Rolls.

Nov. 9th. C. C. Aldred, Esq., elected an Alderman, in the place of W. Laws, Esq., resigned.

Nov. 11th. Mr. William Webb passed his final examination before the Incorporated Law Society as an attorney and solicitor.

Nov. 12th. N. G. Barthropp, Esq., died, aged 60.

Nov. 16th. Mr. R. S. Steele presented with a handsome marble timepiece and a purse of three guineas by the Forester Brotherhood (Court Crown and Anchor), in appreciation of services as secretary.

Nov. 27th. The tenders of Mr. Davey (£276) and Messrs. Warner and Loup, of Ipswich (£688), for constructing a hot-water apparatus at the Workhouse, were accepted by the Guardians.

Nov. 29th. The fishing boat “William and Charles” lost off Winterton.

Dec. 11th. The smack “Rosa” came ashore in a gale near the Britannia Pier, where she became a total wreck. The crew were saved.

Dec. 14th. James Morris Hill, Adjutant 1st Administrative Brigade N.A.V., and late Major Military Train, died at Southtown, aged 51, and was interred with military honours in Gorleston churchyard. Deceased served in the Kaffir war in 1845, and received subsequently several marks of honour for his services abroad.

Dec. 17th. Mr. Edward Smyth, eldest son of the late E. H. L. Preston, Esq., died at Seaford, aged 37.

Dec. 17th. The Right Hon. Lord George John Sondes (4th baron), Lord High Steward of the Borough for 20 years, and also Deputy-Lieut. and J.P. for the County, died at Elmham Hall, Norfolk, aged 80, and his remains interred in Elmham Churchyard.

Dec. 21st. 17,724 lasts of herrings landed dining the season at the Fishwharf.

Dec. 23rd. The dandy cutter “Ben Nevis” foundered in Hollosley Bay. Crew saved.

Dec. The smack “Ace of Trumps” launched from Messrs. Hastings’ yard.

Dec. About 12 acres of Corporation land on the South Denes accepted by the Government at £100 per acre, for making Yarmouth a Military Depôt Centre, but was never established. (See Nov., 1875.)

Dec. The removal of the Parish Church organ to the north and south aisles of the chancel, estimated to cost £1,000.

The returns of the weight of fish carried from Yarmouth by the Great Eastern Railway this year were 27,517 tons, as against 20,399 tons in 1860; 27,222 in 1861; 28,346 in 1862; 31,947 in 1863; 34,432 in 1864; 22,764 in 1869; 26,894 in 1870; 31,898 in 1871; 27,400 in 1872; and 27,864 in 1878. The railway books containing the returns from 1865 to 1868 were destroyed by fire.

1875.

Jan. 4th. The closing of the Gaol and sending all prisoners to Norwich, by order of the Home Secretary, reported.

Jan. 5th. Mr. R. W. Durrell, organist, presented with a silver watch by the Gorleston Congregationalists, in recognition of his services; and on the 27th, Mr. and Mrs. Durrell were presented with an electro-plated cream jug and a pair of sugar tongs, as the remaining articles required to complete a previously-subscribed service.

Jan. 7th and 8th. Two consecutive explosions of oxygen gas, used in the pantomime of _Ali Baba_, took place at the Theatre Royal, but little damage was done to the building.

Jan. 8th. Board of Trade Inquiry at the Police Court into the circumstances attending the stranding and abandonment of the oak-built brigantine “Effort” on the 23rd of Dec. last. The vessel (160 tons register) was built at Yarmouth in 1830, and had at the time of her abandonment on the Cross Sand 120 tons of coal on board.

Jan. 11th. Jas. Cobb, Esq., solicitor, died, aged 84.

Jan. 13th. Mr. Joseph Fleming Neave, a late member of the Town Council, died at the age of 59.

Jan. 18th. The new St. Andrew’s Hall at Gorleston opened by the then Mayor (R. D. Barber, Esq.) at a public entertainment. This hall, built by a company, and situate in Now Street, is 60 ft. long by 40 ft. wide. It was sold to Mr. Bellamy in 1884.

Jan. 19th. The schooner “Shamrock,” of this port, struck on Scroby Sand, and subsequently foundered. Value of the vessel and cargo, £500.

Jan. 19th. Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., elected by the Corporation to the office of High Steward in the place of the late Lord Sondes. A counter proposal that the Marquis of Salisbury, D.C.L., Secretary of State for India, be appointed, was negatived by 22 to 4.

Feb. 1st. Stormy meeting at Town Hall on the question of the School Board formation, and subsequently many other public meetings in various parts of the borough.

Feb. 16th. First election of a School Board for Yarmouth, and though 26 gentlemen were nominated, but 24 went to the poll, the greatest excitement being manifested as to the returns, which were published the next morning, as follows:—S. J. F. Stafford, 3,975; G. Baker, 3,149; D. Tomkins, 2,672; Rev. A. Peaton, 2,615; C. H. S. Geake, 2,411; J. Bracey, 2,131; T. P. Burroughs, 2,060; R. E. Dowson, 2,041; J. W. de Caux, 1,884; E. P. Youell, 1,858; and J. H. Orde, 1,827. The total number of persons polled was 9,901, and the votes given 39,295. The above gentlemen were elected for three years. (See May 28th.) On Mr. Burroughs resigning in 1876, Mr. H. E. Buxton took his seat.

Feb. 23rd. Four of Messrs. Watling and Son’s vessels sold by auction, and realised the following prices:—“Mary,” £890; “Isis,” £390; “Kate,” £385; and “John Wrey,” £340.

Feb. 24th. The schooner “Jessie Brown,” of this port, stranded on Scroby, but her cargo of 1,425 bags of flour (16 st. each) kept the vessel afloat.

Feb. F. D. Palmer, Esq., elected a Vice-President of the Legal Practitioners’ Society, London.

March 1st. First meeting of the School Board held at the Tolhouse Hall. Mr. J. H. Orde elected chairman, and Mr. D. Tomkins vice-chairman for three years.

March 2nd. Messrs. Massey and Norton obtained consent to a lease from Michaelmas, 1876, for 999 years, of a piece of ground north of the Britannia Pier—430 ft. by 100 ft.—for the purpose of making an Aquarium, &c., at an estimated cost of £60,000, which was confirmed by the Council on the 9th.

March 2nd. Action at the Police Court—Board of Trade _v._ Mr. Garson Blake—to recover costs for surveying the “True Blue,” £24 18s. Judgment for the Crown with costs.

March 2nd. Mr. Francis Sutton, of Norwich, appointed by the Council as a public analyst for the borough.

March 9th. Heavy gale and serious loss of life and property. The schooner “Elizabeth” and all hands lost near the Barber Sand.

March 19th. The brig “Tweedside” and the iron brig “Robert Anderson” collided in St. Nicholas’ Gat, causing the former to founder. Crew saved.

March 25th. The Yarmouth and Gorleston Tramway opened to the public by the Mayor, and a luncheon afterwards given at the Star Hotel, in celebration of the event.

March 25th. Number of wherries registered with the Norfolk Port and Haven Commissioners during the past year was 112, of the total burthen of 1,963 tons, being an increase of 93 tons on the year.

March 25th. From this date to June 14th, the total number of passengers conveyed by the tram cars to and from Gorleston was 95,912.

March 27th. The brig “Thirteen,” of Sunderland, struck on the Cross Sand in a heavy sea, and both vessel and cargo, value £1,100 and £350 respectively, foundered. The crew were gallantly rescued by the Caister lifeboatmen.

March. The Rev. E. M. Sanderson, M.A., senior curate of the Parish, presented by the Lord Chancellor to the living of Weston St. Mary, near Spalding, worth £300 a year.

April 1st. The “Ernestine,” a full-rigged Dutch East-Indiaman, of 1,296 tons, with a crew of 27 hands, and having 2,000 tons of coal on board, struck on Hasbro’ Sands, but was got off by the aid of five tugs and another steam vessel the next day, after 800 tons of coal had been thrown overboard. Value of ship and cargo, £7,162. On June 24th the Admiralty Court awarded £1,800., i.e., £1,000 to beachmen and £800 to steamers.

April 2nd. Mr. C. H. Wiltshire selected Clerk to the School Board, out of ten candidates nominated.

April 5th. Last meeting held in the old Primitive Methodist Chapel, Priory Plain. (See Sept., 1850.)

April 8th. Bradwell Church (St. Nicholas’) re-opened after £750 had been expended in restoring the fabric and interior fittings. This church, dating from the 14th century, consists of nave, north and south aisles, chancel, south porch, and round tower at west end.

April 9th. Mr. William Laws, after serving as a Guardian of the Poor for 25 years, retired from the Board, at the age of three score and ten.

May 1st. The smack “Harkaway” lost on the Barber Sand. Value £600.

May 7th. A paper balloon sent up at the Crystal Palace at Sydenham, fell at Belton same evening.

May 18th. Contracts for enclosing additional ground to New Cemetery, amounting to £3,086—viz., brickwork, £2,230, stone-work, £286, palisading, &c., £520—accepted by the Corporation, the work to be completed by 29th Sept. (See June 9th, 1875, and Sept. 7th, 1876.)

May 18th. The whaling ship “Labrador,” from the Arctic Seas, anchored in the Roadstead.

May 20th. Mr. G. W. Bond, of Pulham, Norfolk, was elected House Surgeon at the Great Yarmouth Hospital; _vice_ Dr. Murrell, resigned.

May 20th. The foundation stone of the new Baptist Tabernacle on the Lowestoft Road, at Gorleston, laid by J. Edwards, Esq., of London. The building, of ornamental brick, cost about £600, and will accommodate 800 persons.

May 28th. The Returning Officer’s account for the newly-appointed School Board was £220 11s. 7d., but the Educational Department finally decided (Sept.) that £178 9s. 2d. was sufficient.

May. Petition forwarded to the Commissioners of Charities for England and Wales against the appointment of new Charity Trustees for this town, but on June 7th there was an excitable meeting at the Town Hall, called “for the purpose of considering the present position of the Children’s Hospital and other local charities, and the nomination of new trustees in conjunction with the existing five trustees—Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P., and C. C. Aldred, B. Jay, W. Johnson, and J. Palmer, Esqs.” July 28th, the Commissioners “concurred in the annual publication of local charity accounts,” and thought 15 trustees sufficient. In July, 1876, the Charity Commissioners appointed them as follows: The Vicar (for the time being), and W. Worship, R. S. Watling, T. B. Steward, H. E. Buxton, R. H. I. Palgrave, J. Bracey, C. H. Wiltshire, W. J. Foreman, and T. P. Burroughs, Esqs.

June 8th and 9th. Frank Buckland, Esq., Inspector of Salmon Fisheries, held an inquiry at the Town Hall, as to “the state of the crab, lobster, and other sea fisheries along this coast, with a view of preserving them for the future.” On Nov. 16th, 1863, Commissioners Caird, M.P., Lefevre, M.P., and Dr. Huxley held an inquiry here on the same subject, but saw no reason for legislative measures.

June 9th. The memorial stone of the new Cemetery laid by the Mayor. (See May 18th.)

June. The total cost of pauperism last year was—out-relief, £2,855, in-maintenance, £2,131—total, £4,986. For the previous year, £5,272. East and West Fleggs for first-named period, £855.

June 14th. Mr. Edward Owen (37), a native of Shrewsbury, schoolmaster and local preacher, in travelling from Yarmouth to Gorleston, accidentally fell while in the act of jumping from a tram-car in which he was riding, and the injuries received resulted fatally. Deceased had resided in Gorleston for six years. A public subscription of £100 was raised for his widow and four children.

June 15th. Two new smacks—“Albatross” and “Terrier”—launched from Messrs. Beechings’ shipyard.

June 22nd. The four chief stones of the Temple, Priory Plain, laid by Messrs. J. Riches, F. Salmon, J. W. Neave, and A. J. N. Chamberlin. A tea for 1,000 persons was served in the Drill Hall, and a public meeting held in the King Street Congregational Chapel. (See Aug. 3rd, 1874.)

June 22nd. The principal stone of the Walrond Smack-Boys’ Home laid by Vice-Admiral Sir John Walter Tarleton, K.C.B., Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty’s Naval Reserve. The promoter (Rev. A. T. Walrond) died on Oct. 2nd, 1873, but the family raised £1,000 toward the building fund. (See Feb. 15th, 1876.)

June 23rd. The marriage between the Rev. E. M. Sanderson, M.A., and Miss Eveline Mary Venables (only daughter of the Vicar of this parish) solemnized with much festivity.

June 24th. The Yarmouth Gaol, after this date, to be used only as a lock-up for prisoners on remand, by order of the Home Secretary.

June 28th. Colour-Sergeant Chipperfield presented, at the New Royal Standard Tavern, with a marble timepiece by the officers and men of the D Company of Rifle Volunteers, as a memento of their esteem on his retirement and promotion to the office of Paymaster-Sergeant, after 15 years’ service.

June 29th. Mr. Hitchman Hammond, a late member of the Town Council, died, aged 46 years.

June 30th. Smack “William and Ann” launched from the yard of Messrs. S. K. Smith and Sons.

June 30th. The opening of St. Andrew’s Church, Gorleston, after its complete restoration, was commemorated by a full choral service and sermons by the Rev. George Venables, S.C.L., and the Rev. — Gibson, of Lound. The new pulpit was the gift of E. W. Bell, Esq.

June. Mr. E. W. Worlledge, solicitor (second son of John Worlledge, Esq., County Court Judge of this district, and Chancellor of the Diocese), appointed joint Registrar of Yarmouth County Court.

June. Dr. Macleod, of Yarmouth Naval Hospital, promoted to the rank of Inspector-General of Hospitals and Fleets; and Sub-Lieut. F. C. N. Knox to Lieut. in 2nd or East Norfolk Regiment.

July 6th. Full choral service held at the Parish Church at the re-opening of the fine old organ, after being removed, thoroughly repaired, and additional stops added by Messrs. Bishop and Son, of London. (See 1733, Jan. 25th, 1869, and Feb. 23rd, 1870.) The organ is now divided into two parts, and placed in the Chancel 60 ft. apart. They contain 280 motor, and the same number of pneumatic tubes for conveying the wind to the manuals, supplied by two low and one high pressure bellows. The number of stops is 48, and of sounding pipes about 3,100, viz., Great Organ CC to G, 56 notes 17 stops; Swell Organ CC to G, 17 stops; Choir Organ CC to G, 10 stops; north Pedal Organ CCC to F, 30 notes; south Pedal CCC to F, 30 notes; 7 couplers and 10 composition pedals.

July 13th. Mr. A. J. B. Howes’ tender of £385 accepted by the Corporation for erecting the Fish Wharf master’s house; the same contractor on Aug. 17th was appointed to alter the Refreshment Depôt at the Fish Wharf, at the cost of £145.

July 17th. A horse belonging to Mr. H. H. Gambling backed into the river near the Bridge, and was drowned.

July. The Norfolk Militia Artillery received the honour of being called “The Prince of Wales’ Own Regiment of Norfolk Artillery Militia,” H.R.H. the Prince of Wales being the Hon. Colonel.

July 19th. Richard Mann, Esq., died at Ditchingham, Suffolk, aged 72. Deceased was a County Magistrate and a member of the Port and Haven Commission for Suffolk. Mr. James Peto, of Lowestoft, was elected in Oct. a Commissioner in place of the above-named gentleman.

July 22nd. Public meeting at the Town Hall on the question of establishing an Aquarium at Yarmouth and for obtaining local co-operation in the project. A committee of 17 gentlemen was appointed. It was subsequently published that the capital required was £100,000, to be raised in shares of £5 each. The cost of the whole building would be £75,000, leaving £25,000 not called up. The Aquarium and Skating Rink would cost about £23,000, and a public hall to hold 3,000 people—194 ft. by 60 ft.—£30,000. (See March 2nd, Oct. 9th, and Nov. 3rd.)

July 24th. The French gunboat “Cuvier” with four guns and crew of 75 hands, put into Yarmouth Roadstead.

July 28th. Rev. T. W. Harrison, late of Yarmouth, instituted to the vicarage of Christ Church, Luton, Beds, by the Lord Bishop of the Diocese.

July 30th. A hoax, resembling somewhat the evergreen Cromer hoax of Sept. 2nd, 1868, apparently perpetrated. On the first occasion, large bills were previously posted over the town, representing that on this eventful day “a fine commodious steamer,” with every comfort and convenience, named the “Isis,” from London, would take excursionists on a day’s pleasure to Cromer and back, at the reasonable charge of 2s. 6d. a head. Tickets to be procured before Wednesday, the 2nd. About £14 worth—_i.e._ 112—were disposed of, and the money handed over to the “enterprising swindler.” Intending passengers waited long and patiently on the Jetty and Beach on the morning in question, but the steamer never came to view, and our townspeople retired home the wiser for their bought experience. On a later occasion, however, a steamer _did_ go to Cromer, but left some 40 or 50 of her passengers to get home as best they could overland, owing to a heavy sea running.

July. Dr. Hubert Airy visited Yarmouth, by order of the Local Government Board, to enquire into the cause of zymotic diseases then prevalent. He issued his report with numerous suggestions in Nov.

Aug. 2nd. The barque “Ponda Chief,” named after a Kaffir tribe in Africa, one of the finest vessels ever built in Yarmouth, and the longest by some six or eight ft., launched from Messrs. Fellows’ ship-yard. Dimensions—140 ft. long, 28 ft. beam, 14 ft. 6 in. deep, and 416 tons register. A luncheon was afterwards given at the Crown and Anchor.

Aug. 3rd. (Regatta day.) The armour-plated corvette “Favorite,” of 2,094 tons and 400-horse power, got on Scroby Sand, but came off with the flood tide.

Aug. 10th. The War Department applied for additional ground, 2a. 3r. 0p., for the Military Centre Depôt, on the South Denes, at £100 per acre, but it was decided by the Council (Aug. 17th) not to dispose of the land for less than £500 for the two acres.

Aug. 11th. The new carrier-cutter “Flower of the Fleet” launched from Messrs. S. K. Smith and Son’s yard.

Aug. 17th. The Council were apprised by a letter from the Lord Chancellor’s Secretary, that Henry Teasdel, John Bracey, Robert Veale, and Robert Henry Inglis Palgrave, Esqs., had been appointed Justices of the Peace for the Borough.

Aug. 31st. An extraordinary race horse named Skardo jumped over the iron railings in _front_ of the Town Hall, dashed into an iron gate, which was carried away, then crossing the garden to the south side in its mad career, knocked down the two entrance-gates; also several feet of iron railings across the road, but the force of the blow against the wall of Messrs. Fenner and Suffling’s office overpowered the animal. It has since won several races, and the fame of Skardo (_alias_ Iron Duke) will be handed down to posterity among the wonders of the past.

Aug. 31st. Collision in the Tyne between the steamer “Glanabanta,” of Newcastle, and the schooner “Second Adventure,” of Lynn, the latter being sunk and the crew drowned. (See Jan. 23rd, 1876.)

Aug. 31st. Messrs. G. T. Clough and J. Bonnick accomplished, on bicycles, the journey from London to Yarmouth, 122 miles, in 17½ hours, or 12¼ hours exclusive of the 5¼ hours they stopped for refreshments. They left Bow at 4 a.m., and arrived here at 9.30 p.m. The same two gentlemen on Sept. 3rd completed 120 miles homeward in 11h. 55m., exclusive of 4h. 25m. stoppage.

Sept. 3rd. The cost for purchasing property and widening the Market Gates, up to this date, was £1,446 4s.; £1,400 being borrowed at 4 per cent. on mortgage of the General District Rates.

Sept. 6th. The new smack “Huntsman” launched from Mr. H. Critten’s yard. Length, 55 ft. over all; depth of hold, 7 ft. 4 in.; beam, 16 ft. 8 in.

Sept. 9th. The new organ in St. George’s Park (Baptist) Chapel opened. The instrument, built by Mr. W. C. Mack, contains 318 pipes, and one row of manuals, 54 notes, from CC to F, and 1½ octave of German pedals, from CCC to F. Five stops are in general swell. The cost, including alterations in fixing, was £200. (See Aug. 8th, 1872.)

Sept. 20th. Revs. W. J. Blake and H. J. Bode, B.A., were licensed as curates for Yarmouth, the Revs. R. V. Barker and E. R. Adams being about to be removed. (See Oct. 29th.)

Sept. 26th. One boat brought in 1,600 mackerel caught off the coast, which sold at 2d. each.

Sept. 28th. The deliveries of herrings up to this date far below those of last year and less than in 1873.

Sept. 30th. The body of a male child discovered in a rain-water cistern, after five or six months, on the premises of D. Meadows, Esq., surgeon, King Street, which was subsequently proved to have been illegitimate, and concealed by a maid-servant.

Oct. 7th. The Rev. Samuel Hurst, of Southtown, died very suddenly at Corton, near Lowestoft, aged 80. The deceased gentleman was much esteemed for his liberality to local charities.

Oct. 9th. A dead porpoise, weighing 70lbs., found on Breydon, and sold for 1s. to a smacksman.

Oct. 9th. The foundation-stone of the Aquarium laid by Lord Suffield, the ceremony being attended by the Mayor and other members of the Corporation, and a large concourse of spectators. The band of the P.W.O. Norfolk Militia Artillery played at intervals. A luncheon was afterwards spread at the Town Hall, to which about 100 gentlemen sat down, including the Mayor (R. D. Barber, Esq.) and Deputy-Mayor; Lord Suffield, Hon. F. Walpole, M.P., Colonel Duff, and the officials of the Aquarium Society. (See Sept. 5th, 1876.)

Oct. 10th. The smack “Notre Dame,” of this port, lost in a gale about 10 miles S. W. of the Newark lightship. Crew saved.

Oct. 10th. The smack “Vixen” lost three hands whilst ferrying fish to a steamer.

Oct. 14th. The Baptist Tabernacle at Gorleston opened. It is of white brick, and of the Italian order. The interior measures 57 ft by 31 ft. (See May 20th.)

Oct. 17th and 23rd. Very heavy gales. The barque “Young England,” of Middlesbro’, struck on the Cockle Sand and foundered (on the 20th), and 12 out of a crew of 17 were unfortunately drowned.

Oct. 21st. The trawler “Surf” launched from Messrs. Beeching’s yard. Dimensions—Length, 66 ft.; beam, 18½ ft.; depth of hold, 8½ ft.

Oct. 22nd. Captain William Bugg, of the schooner “Eliza Jane,” and his wife, walked over the quay-head near the Gorleston Ferry, in the dark, and were drowned, and a third person had a narrow escape.

Oct. 23rd. The brigantine “Saucy Jack,” belonging to Mr. G. Blake, of this port, run ashore opposite the Coastguard Station, and became a total wreck. The vessel was built in 1841, and valued at £500. Wreckage sold for £38.

Oct. A handsome specimen of the Maigre (_Sciæna aquila_) caught off Yarmouth. The fish was 4 ft. 9 in. long, and weighed 75 lbs. It is a Mediterranean fish, and seldom caught on the English coast.

Oct. 27th. Public meeting in the Town Hall to consider the projected Railway from Yarmouth to Stalham, at a cost of £70,000, the land alone being calculated to cost £13,000. The total length of the light line to be 22 miles, and pass through and near to 37 parishes. On Nov. 9th the Council accorded their approval of the whole scheme.

Oct. 27th. Captain William Swann Stanford, five years pier-master of this port, and eight years previously harbour-master, died suddenly at Gorleston.

Oct. 29th. Sale of six smacks by auction, late the property of Mr. R. Galleway, realised £3,105.

Oct. 29th. The Rev. E. R. Adams presented with a case of four elegant silver salt stands, by the congregation of St. Andrew’s; and on Nov. 1st was presented with a pair of silver fish carvers in morocco leather case, by the Sunday School Teachers.

Oct. 29th. Charles Diver, Esq., tendered his resignation as Town Clerk of the Borough. (See Nov. 30th and Dec. 16th.)

Nov. 3rd. Gallant lifeboat services rendered by the Caister beachmen. The brigantine “Harmston” lost on the Middle Cross Sand, but the crew of seven, who were in the rigging for several hours during a very heavy sea, were ultimately hauled through the surf to the lifeboat and saved. Up to 1874 the Caister boatmen, about 40 in number, had launched their boats on 122 occasions, and had rescued 541 lives. A public subscription was opened in Nov. through the exertions of the Misses Morton. (See Dec. 25th.)

Nov. 3rd. At a general meeting of the Shareholders of the Yarmouth Aquarium Society (Limited), held in London, Lord Suffield, K.C.B., Colonel Edward Money, and T. A. Masey, I. Strutt, and J. H. Orde, Esqs., were appointed the Executive Committee of Directors. It was stated at this meeting that the contractors, Messrs. Chas. Aldin and Sons, offered to take shares to the amount of £20,000, and that the contemplated outlay up to the date of opening would be about £35,000. In July the subscriptions amounted to £21,865.

Nov. 7th. Thirty-five large sound codfish captured in the Roadstead with hook and line by two men.

Nov. 9th. First school under the School Board opened at the Oddfellows’ Hall, Gorleston; on Nov. 26th the Yarmouth Temporary Grammar School was hired; and in Jan., 1877, the new Cobholm Island and Gorleston Schools were opened.

Nov. 11th. A conveyance made out to Her Majesty’s principal Secretary of State for the War Department of land and hereditaments situate on the South Denes for the purpose of a Military Depôt Centre, and release of certain rights. Purchase money, £1,635, was sealed by the Committee. (See Dec., 1874.)

Nov. 11th. Heavy rainfall; no less than 120 tons per acre fell in 24 hours.

Nov. 13th. Frederic Graham Lacon, late of the 17th Regiment of Foot, of Tharston, Norfolk, only son of John Edmund Lacon, Esq., died at Madeira, aged 26 years.

Nov. 13th. Sir E. H. K. Lacon, Bart., M.P.’s, brougham overturned near the Workhouse, the horse having become frightened and bolted, and although the coachman was much hurt, the baronet escaped with only a severe shaking.

Nov. 14th. Floods and much destruction of property throughout the country. There were 18 feet of water on the bar at our harbour, _i.e._, 9 feet more than the usual flood. The schooner “Elizabeth and Susan,” of this port, was lost off the Humber, and much damage done to fishing craft and shipping generally.

Nov. 17th. Mr. H. Stonex, organist of the Parish Church, presented, in the Record Room of the Town Hall, with a purse of £81, subscribed by the parishioners of the town as a token of respect.

Nov. 19th and 20th. Very heavy gale and serious loss of life and property. The schooner “Wild Wave” (95 tons), of Sunderland, laden with 600,000 bottles, run on to Caister beach (after fouling with the Cockle lightship) and two hands—master and boy—were washed off the rigging and drowned.

Not. 21st. A daring Scotchman, named Watson, again climbed through the caryatides outside the Nelson Monument of the roof, and after embracing the figure of Britannia, &c., descended by the lightning conductor wire outside, 144 feet, to the amazement of several spectators. (See 1863.)

Nov. 23rd. Mr. Edward Cattermole resigned the office of librarian at the Public Library, which he had held 15 years. (See Dec. 9th.)

Nov. 26th. The Rev. A. J. Spencer presented by the congregation of St. James’ with a silver pocket Communion service and some volumes of books, as tokens of regard.

Nov. 27th. A tar tank, containing about 50,000 gallons, on the works of Mr. Davy, Cobholm Island, burst, and the tar ran about in huge streams.

Nov. 30th. A Committee of the Town Council accepted Mr. Charles Diver’s resignation as Town Clerk of the Borough, the term to expire on Jan. 3rd, 1876. (See Dec. 16th.)

Nov. 30th. The smack “Chosen” ran ashore near the North Pier.

Nov. The Rev. R. V. Barker, M.A., presented previous to his leaving Yarmouth for a sojourn through the Holy Land, with a silver salver, silver tobacco jar, gold pencil case, and a box of mathematical instruments, by the congregation, Bible Class, and teachers and scholars of St. John’s Church.

Nov. The original manuscript of “Manship’s History of Yarmouth” found by the Rev. A. Peaton, at an old book shop in Bury St. Edmunds.

Nov. The “Perlustration of Great Yarmouth,” in three vols., by Charles John Palmer, Esq., F.S.A., printed and published by Mr. George Nall. It is an illustrated work of 1,282 quarto pages.

Nov. Mr. W. Saville Kent, F.L.S., F.Z.S., appointed Naturalist and Manager of the Aquarium.

Dec. 2nd. The schooner “Tantivy” of this port went ashore on Kessingland beach during a dense snowstorm.

Dec. 2nd. The Royal National Lifeboat Institution voted a silver medal and its thanks on vellum to Philip George, coxswain of the Caister Lifeboats; and to S. Bishop, chief boatman of H.M. Coastguard, at Caister, for their bravery in saving three of the crew of the “Wild Wave.” The Institution voted £10 for the others who rendered assistance. (See Dec. 25th.)

Dec. 4th. Another tug, named “Reliance,” struck the sunken wreck of the steamer “Gladstone,” off Hasbro’, and was run on to Eccles beach, where she became a wreck. Valued at £3,500; but insured for only £2,000. Crew saved. The hull was subsequently sold for £140. (See Nov. 14th, 1871.)

Dec. 4th. The schooner “X. L.,” of Goole, lost on Winterton beach; also two hands.

Dec. 5th. The billyboy “Three Anns” driven among the breakers off Gorleston, and the crew rescued by the lifeboat “Ranger.”

Dec. 6th. The Corporation resolved to erect a Contagious Disease Hospital next the Workhouse, at a cost of £500, and £200 for an enclosing wall, 200 ft. square by 7 ft. high. A contract of £1,050 was afterwards accepted.

Dec. 6th. Captain R. J. C. Day, harbour master of Ipswich, appointed as Pier Master by the Port and Haven Commission at a salary of £150 and residence.

Dec. 9th. Mr. C. Hall appointed librarian of the Public Library. (See Nov. 23rd.)

Dec. 16th. Mr. T. M. Baker appointed by the Town Council as Town Clerk, at a salary of £450 a year.

Dec. 21st. The returns of herrings landed at the Fishwharf during the season from Aug. 23rd to above date were 11,850 lasts and 2,600 fish. (18,200 to the last.)

Dec. 24th. Lord Hastings died at Calicut, Bombay, aged 20 years.

Dec. 25th. The sum of £197 2s. subscribed as a testimonial for the Caister Company of beachmen, for their bravery at the wreck of the “Wild Wave,” on Nov. 19th, and many former acts of daring in rescuing shipwrecked crews. On Jan. 4th the money was distributed, each of the 40 men receiving four guineas tied up in blue satin bags. (See Nov. 3rd.)

Dec. 26th. Edward Reynolds Aldred, Esq., J.P., died at Southtown, aged 68 years.

Dec. 29th. The new smack “Gem,” belonging to Mr. W. H. Stanley, of Southtown, launched from Messrs. J. and F. Mack’s yard.

Dec. 30th. Singular freak of a horse ridden by Mr. F. Danby Palmer. The animal having thrown his rider, bolted towards the sea, into which it dashed, and swam out with considerable energy for nearly a mile and a half, towards Scroby, when it was captured by some boatmen, and brought safely to shore again.

1876.

Jan. 3rd. Quarter Sessions. No prisoners for trial, a maiden session not having occurred for more than 20 years, the Mayor presented the Recorder with a pair of white kid gloves.—R. H. I. Palgrave, Esq., qualified as a magistrate for the Borough.

Jan. 4th. Arthur George Thompson (22), incautiously walked on an overhanging cornice at the top of the new Temple, Priory Plain, from which he fell 45 feet to the ground and was killed. The falling _débris_ so injured Thomas Kirk as to result fatally.

Jan. 6th. Five of Mr. Malden’s smacks sold for £2,775.

Jan. 6th. Juvenile Fancy Dress Ball at Town Hall.

Jan. 10th. A woman (73), named Hannah Ives, was brutally murdered with a spade by an insane woman, named Swatman, at Belton.

Jan. 13th. Fire in the Card-room of the Town Hall, under the hearthstone, and damage done to the extent of £15 or £16.

Jan. 19th. The smack “Charley,” belonging to Mr. Alfred Fisher, launched from Mr. Fellows’ yard.

Jan. 20th. Marriage of Reginald Thorsby Gwyn, Esq., Captain of the 4th King’s Own Royals, and Adjutant of the 4th Norfolk Rifle Volunteers, with Miss Mary Joanna Farr, youngest daughter of Isaac Preston, Esq.

Jan. 23rd. Collision in the Roadstead, about 1 p.m., between the s.s. “Glanabanta” (Capt. Ablitt, of Yarmouth) and the s.s. “Transit.” The latter, with a crew of 21 all told, of Dieppe (described in the _Veritas_ to be 548 tons gross, 373 tons net [French], engines 90 h.p., and built at Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1871), was laden with 120 tons of coal and a general cargo of 290 tons, comprising machinery, silk, cotton, and light manufactures, valued between £30,000 and £40,000. The “Transit” was run on to the beach, opposite Trafalgar Road, where her hull still (1884) remains. The “Glanabanta” claimed £5,000 damages; but in a cross action the “Transit” claimed heavier damages, as the loss was computed to be £50,000. In the High Court of Admiralty, Sir R. Phillimore ruled that the “Transit” was alone to blame for the collision; but on an appeal in the High Court of Justice, Lord Justice Baggallay reversed the decision. The salvors were awarded £2,000.

Jan. 23rd. The Rev. Mangan, D.D., LL.D., late Dean of Limerick, after being appointed evening lecturer at St. Peter’s Church, preached his first sermon.

Jan. 26th. The cabin of the brigantine “William Crow,” whilst in harbour, caught fire, and damage was done to the extent of about £200.

Feb. 3rd. First “Spelling Bee” entertainment held in Yarmouth.

Feb. 15th. The Walrond Smack-Beys’ Home opened by Earl Nelson. (See June 22nd, 1875.) This Gothic building cost with fittings about £2,000, and will accommodate about 40 boys.

Feb. 21st. Mr. William Laws, as superintendent of St. Nicholas’ Sunday School since 1844, presented with several testimonials previous to his leaving for Beccles.

Feb. 22nd. East Suffolk Election. Lord Mahon having been elevated to the House of Peers on the death of his father, his seat in Parliament for East Suffolk became vacant, and Lieut.-Colonel St. John Barne (C.) and Charles Easton, Esq. (L.), contested for the seat. Poll—Colonel Barne, 3,659; Mr. Easton, 2,708—majority, 951. Colonel Barne’s election cost £4,140, and Mr. Easton’s £2,312.

Feb. 23rd. Fire at Mr. John Harris’ pipe manufactory, Priory Plain. Damage about £150.

Feb. 23rd and 24th. Sir Randal Roberts, Bart., appeared at the Theatre Royal, and impersonated “Charles Devereux” in the comedietta _Under a Veil_, written by himself; and on the 25th and 26th he appeared as “Lieutenant Ringston, R.N.,” in _Naval Engagements_, with the Maitland Blue Beard Burlesque Company.

The Marine Drive widened 60 feet, between Britannia and Wellington Piers, a distance of 3,000 feet; cost, £2,500. (See April 22nd.)

A new gasometer (No. 3), capable of holding 63,000 cubic feet of gas, and its tank 406,350 gallons of water, was erected at the Southtown Gas Works, which, with other modern improvements, cost £5,000.

April 1st. The Hon. Frederick Walpole, of Rainthorpe Hall, Flordon, M.P. for North Norfolk, died in London. Deceased was third surviving son of the third Earl of Orford, and was born in 1822.

April 14th. Loss of the “Cygnet” and all hands.

April 18th. The full-rigged ship “Humboldt,” with 349 emigrants on board, ran on to Winterton Beach.

April 20th. The Rev. G. Merriman, M.A., presented with a gold watch, silver tea service, and a silver claret jug, by the St. James’ congregation.

April 21st. Lieutenant-Colonel James Duff elected a Member of Parliament for North Norfolk, in place of the Hon. F. Walpole, deceased. (See April 1st, 1876, and Nov. 26th, 1868.) Poll—Colonel Duff (C.), 2,302; Sir Thomas Fowell Buxton, Bart. (L.), 2,192; majority, 110. Out of the 6,231 voters on register, only 4,494 voted. Number on register in the Borough (including Runham), 1,980; number voted in Yarmouth, 1,380.

April 22nd. R. Morgan, Esq., C.E., Government Board Inspector, visited Yarmouth respecting the borrowing of £3,300 by the Corporation, for widening the Drive, &c.

April 23rd. Lady Elizabeth Susan Orde died at Hopton. She was eldest daughter of Henry Charles, sixth Duke of Beaufort, and born June 23rd, 1798.

April 28th. E. P. Youell, Esq., presented by the parishioners of Gorleston with a massive silver four-glass épergne, value £80, for his zealous exertions in connection with the restoration of Gorleston Church. (See Aug. 14th, 1871.)

May 9th. The Yarmouth brig “Tradesman” lost on the Normandy coast.

June 2nd. Meeting at the Town Hall resolved to have a four-dial clock in St. Peter’s Tower, which was placed there the same year.

June 8th. The Gt. Yarmouth Bowling Green opened.

June 13th. Vice-Admiral Thomas Lewis Gooch, youngest son of the late Sir Thomas Sherlock Gooch, Bart., died at Yarmouth, aged 69 years.

June 22nd. Capt. Wm. Holt, 16 years connected with the 2nd N.R.V., presented, on his retirement, with four elegantly-chased silver dessert spoons by the members of D. Company. (See Dec. 4th, 1883.)

July 8th. Heavy thunderstorm. The electric fluid struck the chimney and entered a cottage in the factory yard, disarranging and breaking the furniture and ornaments in the room; it also did damage to other property in the town, including some amount of destruction of property belonging to Mr. H. Harding, St. Nicholas’ Road, who had a large chimney knocked down and many squares of glass broken.

July 10th. Fire in Church Street, Gorleston. Six cottages burnt down, and three others partly destroyed. Nearly 40 men, women, and children rendered homeless for a time.

July 27th. The Yarmouth Temple dedicated for Divine worship before its completion. Interior dimensions, 72 feet by 52 feet; height, 35 feet. Cost £4,000; accommodates 1,100.

July. St. Peter’s Road footway laid with concrete.

Aug. 8th. Miss E. Pearson, of Yarmouth, and Miss MacLaughlin, left London for Servia, _via_ Vienna, their services as nurses to the sick and wounded in the Eastern war having been accepted by Archbishop Michael, at Belgrade. They were greeted by a torchlight procession on their arrival. (See Aug. 7th, 1871.)

Aug. 21st. The stallage, rents, and tolls in the Market and Fair let by auction for five years from Jan. 1st, 1877, to Messrs. Bower, of Leeds, for £925 per annum. (See Dec. 11th, 1871.) Some 13 years ago, the same lessees gave but £625 per annum.

Aug. 29th. A cyclone of great violence swept over some parts of this district, and carried trees, stacks, &c., away in its narrow track.

Aug. The Registrar-General’s returns show that the mortality of Yarmouth was 15 per 1,000—nine other places only out of 46 being lower.

Sept. 5th. The Yarmouth Aquarium opened to the public with much ceremony, and a _recherché_ luncheon was spread in the corridor.

Sept. 7th. Another new cemetery (No. 3) consecrated by the Bishop of Norwich. It comprises about ten acres. (See Oct. 18th, 1855.)

Sept. 7th and 8th. East of England Great Horse Fête held on Southtown Marshes.

Sept. 8th. Meeting at Town Hall protesting against the Turkish atrocities.

Sept. 11th. Mr. W. J. Lincoln presented with a handsome timepiece by the members of the Foresters’ Court “Star of the East” (2728). He had been 18 years secretary.

Sept. 24th. At 6.30 p.m., an extraordinary meteor, resembling a brilliant ball of fire and shooting stars, illuminated the heavens for several seconds.

Sept. 27th. Commander Horatio Nelson, R.N., son of the late Thomas Atkinson, master of the flag-ship “Victory” at Trafalgar, and godson of the late Admiral Lord Nelson, died at Yarmouth, aged 78.

Oct. 13th. H. E. Buxton, Esq., elected a member of the School Board in place of T. P. Burroughs, Esq., resigned.

Oct. At the Norfolk Quarter Sessions, the Revs. R. J. Tacon (Rollesby), and T. J. Blofeld (Ormesby), and G. M. Beck, Esq. (Ormesby), qualified as County Magistrates.

Oct. 16th. Testimonials of £15 sterling—a richly-mounted walking stick, and a pipe—presented to pay-master-Sergt. Grier, on his leaving the E. N. Militia, after 22 years.

Oct. 19th. The screw gunboat “Cherub,” 60 h.p., and two guns, anchored in the Roadstead. Also the screw iron troopship “Assistance,” 1,300 h.p., and two guns, 2,037 tons burthen; and two Tyne gunboats, each having a 35-pounder.

Oct. 22nd. Heavy gale. Loss of the lugger “Cynthia,” and all hands.

Oct. 23rd. First burial in the new Cemetery—Samuel Mannall, many years in the Trinity service, aged 47.

Oct. 28th. A live stag found swimming at sea, over three miles from land. The crew of the smack “Gleaner” picked the animal up, and brought it safely to the Royal Hotel stables.

Nov. 5th. Mr. J. W. Parsley, smack owner, late of Greenwich, died at Gorleston, aged 46.

Nov. 8th. Schooner “Essex” driven ashore, and wrecked south of Gorleston Pier. On the 11th the brig “Vulcan” shared the same fate in the South Ham.

Nov. 15th. Mr. T. Elliot, of Ormesby, presented at the Aquarium with a testimonial—a handsome épergne or candelabrum, with a group of stags at the base—in acknowledgment of public services rendered to numerous charities.

Nov. 15th. Great Conservative Banquet held at the Drill Hall. About 600 guests present, including the members for North Norfolk, and Colonel Barne, M.P.

Nov. 17th. H. R. Harmer, Esq., appointed as Vestry Clerk without a poll, in place of the late Mr. S. Barnard Cory.

Nov. 23rd. Mr. W. Stockton, Master of the School of Navigation, presented with a travelling bag, completely fitted up, a silver pencil case, and set of gold studs, by his old pupils and friends, as a token of esteem.

Nov. The new steam tug “Comet,” built for the Yarmouth Star Steam Tug Company, arrived at this port.

Nov. Mr. Henry Spelman Palmer attained the degree of B.A. at the London University.

Nov. A patent wedge or railway key invented by Mr. James Gillings.

Nov. 29th. Mr. John Woodger, died, aged 63 years. Deceased was a member of the Yarmouth Corporation and Board of Guardians.

Nov. Mr. Thomas Small resigned the Consular Agency after 24 years, and the French Government presented him with a gold medal (in case) in recognition of valuable services.

Dec. 3rd. The Austrian barque “Olympo” stranded on Yarmouth beach. The smack “Steadfast” was lost on the following day, with two hands.

Dec. 6th. Mr. William Rudd presented with a handsome timepiece, silver inkstand and penholder, and two bronze candelabra, by the Sunday School teachers and congregation of St. Andrew’s.

Dec. 7th. Baptist Schoolrooms, Crown Road, built and opened. Cost, £950. The corner-stone was laid July 20th.

Dec. 8th. A black marble timepiece, inlaid with malachite, presented to Mr. J. Johnson (foreman to Messrs. Aldin), by the Directors of the Aquarium, for his skill and assiduity in conducting these prodigious works.

Dec. 12th. The smack “Gnat,” of this port, after a collision, foundered at the Silver Pits, value £1,000.

Dec. 13th. Sir Charles R. Turner, fifth son of the late Rev. Richard Turner of this town, died in London, aged 87.

Dec. 21st. The number of lasts of herrings for the present season landed at the Fishwharf was 18,836. The aggregate earnings of 20 boats amounted to £24,217, _i.e._, £1,210 per boat, and the gross expenses amounted to about £4,907. The previous year the aggregate of 20 boats was £18,787, _i.e._, £981 per boat, and the expenses reached £4,582.

Dec. 23rd. The barque “Ingleborough,” of Hull, lost on the Barber Sand. Value, £2,000; cargo, £900. On the 27th the “Countess of Zetland,” damaged by the floating wreck of the above, was ran ashore opposite the Aquarium, where she became a total wreck.

Dec. 28th. James Wright, master of the smack “Olive Branch,” awarded a silver medal by the King of Sweden and Norway for his bravery in saving the crew of a Norwegian brig.

Dec. 30th. H.M. paddle-steamer “Valorous,” and four iron twin-screw gunboats, of 360 tons each, arrived in the Roadstead.

Deaths: March 27th, Mr. J. Barney Beales, sheriff’s officer, aged 82.—Aug. 22nd, the Hon. Mrs. Harbord Harbord, daughter of Sir H. J. Stracey.—Oct. 21st, Mr. S. B. Cory, vestry clerk, aged 80.—Nov. 18th, H. E. B. Giles, solicitor, aged 65.

Launches: Jan. 30th, smack “Flash.”—May, smack “Ruby.”—July, yacht “Harry,” belonging to Mr. H. A. Morris.—July, fishing boat “Arab Steed.”—Aug. 19th, fishing dandy “Challenge.”—Oct. 4th, smacks “Sunbeam” and “Puss.”—Nov. 27th, schooner “Arthur.”—Dec. 11th, trawling smack “Carlisle.”

1877.

Jan. A portion of the North Denes levelled, preparatory to laying the rails of the North Norfolk Railway. (See Oct. 27th, 1875.)

Jan. 9th. Charles Diver, Esq., elected Justices’ Clerk for the East and West Fleggs, in place of the late Mr. S. B. Cory, deceased.

Jan. 9th. Fifteen fishing craft belonging to Messrs. Smith and Son, sold at the “Star” for £13,320; and on Feb. 5th ten of the late Mr. J. W. Parsley’s realised £5,615.

Jan. 16th. P.c. Edwards presented with a handsome timepiece and purse of £4 14s., by the salesmen, buyers, and boatowners, for his attention and courtesy to them at the Fishwharf.

Jan. 19th. The Stradbroke Road Board Schools, Gorleston, opened. Cost, with fittings, £3,000; accommodate 500 children. (See Nov. 9th, 1875.)

Jan. 30th. Very heavy gale and boisterous high tide, parts of the town being inundated. 18 Yarmouth smacks and over 100 hands were lost. The Yarmouth “Mark Lane” lifeboatmen bravely rescued the crew (12) of the barque “Constantia,” wrecked on Scroby. Fifty-five widows, 108 children, and 17 aged parents were left destitute in this locality. The local relief fund reached £2,540, and in London £6,800. The first grant voted for Yarmouth and district was £2,745.

Jan. 30th. Calico fancy dress ball at St. Andrew’s Hall, Gorleston.

Feb. 5th. Charles John Palmer, Esq., presented with a gold watch, a silver flower-basket, and a purse of 100 guineas, as a complimentary testimonial for his local literary researches &c.; 235 persons subscribed £233 9s. 6d. (See 1830.)

Feb. 18th. New oak pulpit in the parish church erected and used for the first time by the Vicar, the Rev. George Venables, S.C.L.

Feb. The Secretary of State for War decided on the formation of an Administrative Battalion, to consist of the 2nd Norfolk (Yarmouth), 4th Suffolk (Bungay), 14th Suffolk (Beccles), and 17th Suffolk (Lowestoft), under the title of the 1st Administrative Battalion Norfolk Rifle Volunteers, with headquarters at Yarmouth.

Feb. 19th. Sir James Paget, Bart., F.R.S., D.C.L., LL.D., appointed one of the Serjeant-Surgeons in Ordinary to the Queen, in the room of Sir William Fergusson, Bart., deceased. He is the son of the late Mr. Samuel Paget, of this town, and was born in 1814.

Feb. 21st. John Clowes, Esq., solicitor, died, aged 67 years. This gentleman formerly filled the office of Town Clerk of the Borough; he was also a member of the Council and Board of Guardians for many years, besides being Lord of the Manor of Caister. (See 1822 and 1840.)

Feb. The body of a male child, about five months old, sent from Liverpool Station to the Vauxhall terminus in a small black bag; but no clue was ever found to the supposed murderess or the gentleman to whom it was consigned.

March. J. H. Orde, Esq., resigned after 18 years’ service in the 2nd Norfolk Rifle Volunteer Corps. On June 21st he was presented with a valuable gold repeater watch by the Corps, at the Drill Hall, as a memento of esteem.

March 5th. Major General Francis Montague Maxwell Ommanney, B.A., died at Yarmouth, aged 50 years.

March 6th. Benjamin Daniels, a farmer of Scratby (five miles from the birthplace of Hales), and the last of the East Anglian giants, died and buried at Ormesby St. Margaret, aged 45 years. Height, 6 ft. 6 in.; weight, 24 stone; width across the shoulders, 20 in.; and possessed great strength.

March 25th. Income of the Haven Commissioners for the past year, £11,927 12s. 11d.; an increase of £782 11s. 5d. on the previous year. The imports in 1877 included 87,729 tons of coal, 288,032 qrs. of corn, and tonnage dues 176,475 tons, &c.; on fish and fishing vessels, £2,110. Number of wherries trading on the Bure, 108, of 1,934 tons burthen, and the income from this source, £455 16s. 3d.

March 28th. First Military Assault-at-Arms at the Drill Hall by the Non-commissioned officers and men of the 1st Royal Dragoons from Norwich; and a second on April 17th, 1879, by the 1st Norfolk Artillery Volunteers.

March 31st. The Registrar-General reported 300 births, 135 marriages, and 179 deaths, 66 of the latter being persons of 60 years old and upwards, in the Borough during the past three months.

April 16th. The schooner “Jane” (121 tons), of Colchester, lost, with six hands, in a heavy gale, on the Cross Sands; and on the 19th the Norwegian barque “Suez” was beached south of the Wellington pier, with the loss of one of her crew.

April 22nd. The Great Yarmouth Church of England, “Mission” opened, and lasted a week.

May 3rd and 5th. The Corporation _versus_ J. W. de Caux. Arbitration proceedings taken respecting the ownership of the Town wall, on the site of “Town Wall House,” Theatre Plain, and subsequently decided in favour of defendant.

May 4th. The National Lifeboat Institution reported the gallant services rendered by the Yarmouth and Gorleston lifeboat crews in saving 22 men from shipwreck during recent gales.

May 8th and 9th. A locomotive engine, intended for the North Norfolk Railway, drawn on rails through Regent Street and Market Place _en route_ to the Beach Station. It was named the “Ormesby,” and weighed about 18 tons; on the 9th and 10th July a second engine, the “Stalham,” was dragged by horses along Regent Street, Regent Road, and Nelson Road North. On Sept. 13th, a third engine, the “North Walsham,” and a fourth, the “Martham,” on March 28th, 1879. The carriages also had to be conveyed in like manner. (See Aug. 7th.)

May 17th. Rev. S. Hooke presented with a handsome timepiece by the congregation of St. Peter’s Church.

May 24th. Sergeant-Major Britton, Colour-Sergts. J. Norton and J. Wall, Sergt. J. Steel, Corporal W. Page, and Privates T. Freebury and R. Hayes, belonging to the 9th Regiment, each presented at Southtown Armoury with a medal for long service and good conduct.

May 25th. The smack “Dauntless” lost on Haak Sand.

May 27th. Rev. Edward Venables, B.A., son of the Vicar of Yarmouth, ordained by the Bishop of Chichester, and was appointed to a curacy at Hastings.

June 8th. The Royal Hotel partly rebuilt and re-modelled.

June 16th. Five gentlemen belonging to the Britannia Amateur Rowing Club rowed from Wroxham to Norwich, _via_ Yarmouth (63 miles), in 10 hrs. 40 min.

June 17th. Three Gorleston young men—Edwin Darby, Augustus Hawes, and Arthur Thrower—accidentally drowned in the river Wensum.

June 24th. On the death of his father, Viscount Canterbury, K.C.B., G.C.M.G., Henry Charles, fourth Viscount (who married in 1872 Amyée Rachel, the only daughter of the late Hon. F. Walpole, M.P.), succeeded to the title.

July 2nd. The Norfolk and Suffolk Fisheries Bill passed the House of Lords, and Royal assent given by Commission on July 19th.

July. The billyboy “Breeze,” of this port, collided with H.M.S. “Wye,” off Carlton, and foundered.

July 9th. The inhabitants and the Board of Trade awarded Thomas Love and William Mann, of the smack “Fawn” two medals and two watches for their bravery in rescuing five hands from the smack “Bessie,” of London, during the gale of Jan. 30th.

July 10th. Mr. I. S. Cooper’s tender of £325 10s. for each of the two brick mortuary chapels in the new Cemetery accepted by the Corporation.

July 11th. The Royal Assembly Rooms purchased by Mr. W. Butcher for £1,975. (See 1851, and April, 1869.)