News Snippets between 1855 and 1859

What follows are news snippets with Crich Parish interest from various newspapers between 1855 and 1859.

As with all transcriptions there could be "typos" which is always a possibilty with audio trancriptions, although care has been taken.

The following index shows parish names that appear in some of the reports – allow for spelling variations and omissions are possible owing to human error.

ALLSOP CHEETHAM HAYNES NIGHTINGALE SWIDELL
APPLEBY CHELL HEIGHTON PEACH SIMS
BACON COIN HIGTON PORTER TAYLOR
BAINES COOK HOGG POYSER TOPHAM
BARBER COWLISHAW HOLMES PRINCE TOWNDROW
BARNES CROOKS HOPKINS ROPER TURTON
BATTERLY CURZON HOPKINSON SAXTON VALLANCE
BESTWICK FLETCHER HOWE SELLERS WALKER
BLACKWELL FLINT HUNT SHAW WETTON
BLAIR FOWKES HUNTINGDON SHIPLEY WHEATCROFT
BLUNDERSTONE FRITH JACKSON SHIPTON WHITE
BOLLINGTON FROST JOHNSON SIMONS WHITEMAN
BOWMER FULLWARD LEAFE SLATER WIGHTMAN
BOWN GOODALL LEAM SMITH WIGLEY
BOWRING GRATION LEE SPARLING WITHAM
BROADHURST HALL LEWIS SPENDLOVE WOOLLEY
BURLEY HARDSTONE LIMB STEEPLES WRIGHT
BUXTON HATHWAY LYNAM STEVENSON YEOMANS
CAULDWELL HAWKINS MURPHY STOCKS YOULSTON
CHAWNER HAY NADIN STORER  

In the transcriptions names have been capitalised to aid quick searches.

Common abbreviations used in the newspaper reports are: ult. [ulimo] meaning the previous month; inst. [instant] meaning the current month, se'nnight [sevennights] meaning a week and &c. meaning et cetera.

At this time, Wessington ( also recorded as Washington), Tansley and part of Holloway were within Crich parish.

Alderwasley although not part of Crich parish had a great many close connections, mainly through the HURT family of Alderwasley who were "Lords of the Manor" owing large parts of the parish. They were also great benefactors to the parish. Consequently it is approriate to include relevent snippets of that place.

Note that the guinea (£1.1s) and half guinea (10s.6d.) were in common usage as the court fines testify. An 1850 guinea would be worth about £80 in 2021.

1855 newspapers

Derby Mercury 18 April 1855
LIST OF OVERSEERS FOR THE ENSUING YEAR
Crich, James WALKER and Peter BOWN.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 20 April 1855
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 4th instant, Mr Abraham FLINT, grocer, &c., aged 51.

Derbyshire Courier 5 May 1855
DEATHS
At Crich Chase, Ambergate, on the 24 ult., at the advanced age of 84, Mr Robert HAY.

Derbyshire Courier 19 May 1855
MARRIAGES
Also, at the same time and place, Mr Benjamin TAYLOR, butcher, Crich, to Mary Ann, youngest daughter of Mr Ralph Wheeldon SMITH, malster, &c., of the same place.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 1 June 1855
WHATSTANDWELL BRIDGE
On Monday the members of the Strangers’ Refuge I.O.O.F. No. 1356, held their 18th anniversary and the house of Hostess BURLEY, the Bull’s Head Inn. After the general routine of the lodge had been dispensed, they proceeded to Crich Church (preceded by the Youlgrave band and banner), where an appropriate sermon was preached by the Rev W. CHAWNER, vicar; they afterwards returned to the Inn, where they partook of a dinner. Mr BOWRING presided and Mr BARBER occupied the vice chair. The usual loyal and patriotic toasts were given and respoded to with acclamation. The health of the worthy hostess and family followed, with thanks for her liberal entertainment. The convivialities were kept up until a late hour, when each member returned home well satisfied with his entertainment, and rejoicing within himself that he was a member of the Strangers’ Lodge of O.F., Whatstandwell Bridge.
[Note: I.O.O.F. was the Independent Order of Odd Fellows]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 8 June 1855
DEATHS
On Thursday, the 29th ult. at the house of her father, Mr John HAYNES, Crich, Ann, the wife of J.B. WALKER, Esq, solicitor, Belper, aged 24.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 15 June 1855
DEATHS
On the eighth instant, at Crich, Mr David WHEATCROFT, framework knitter, aged 82.
On Sunday last, at Crich, Mr George HOGG, Post-office messenger, aged 79. He had been a faithful servant of the Post-office in conveying the letter-bags between Crich and Alfreton for the long period of 39 years.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 29 June 1855
The Bishop of Lichfield has presented… and the Rev William CHAWNER, M.A.to the vicarage of Crich, Derbyshire, vice the Rev G.W. LEWIS, M.A.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 29 June 1855
INQUEST AT CRICH
Mr Coroner WHISTON held an inquest on Saturday at Crich, on the body of William YOULSTON, a child aged 4 years, who it appears had died from general debility. The child had eaten heartily on Tuesday evening, but did not like his breakfast the following . It died the same day. A verdict of “died from natural causes” was returned.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 20 July 1855
DEATHS
At Crich, on Friday last, suddenly, Mr John BACON, aged 63.
At Crich Carr, on the 9th instant, Hannah BARNES.
At Bull Bridge, on the 10th instant, Mr Thomas POYSER, aged 42.

Derby Mercury 1 August 1855
INQUESTS
Before Mr B.T. DALGUY, coroner
On Tuesday last, at the Town Hall, Derby, on the body of William WHITE, aged 9 years, son of William WHITE, labourer, Crich. It appeared from the evidence of the lad's father, that on 5 July they were together on the incline leading from Crich to Ambergate limekilns. The father was “breaking” the wagons down to the turn-table, and the deceased was trying to put something under the wheel to endeavour to scotch it, when by some means or other he got under the wheel, and received severe injuries. He was conveyed to the Derby Infirmary where he died. Mr DOLMAN, house-surgeon to the Infirmary, said the deceased was bought into the Infirmary, with a compound fracture of the left leg, and a great laceration to the whole length of the right thigh. The injury to the left leg necessitated amputation above the knee, which was done the same afternoon by Mr JOHNSON. The injury to the thigh, combined with the loss of the leg, proved too much for his constitution, Hallie died on the 22nd ult. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the above facts.

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald 20 October 1855
TRIAL OF PRISONERS
Andrew HALL and John FRITH charged with stealing on 27 July, at Crich, one ewe sheep, the property of R.W. SMITH. The jury found both the prisoners guilty. A previous conviction was proved against FRITH for felony for which he had been transported ten years; FRITH was sentenced to six years penal servitude, and HALL to 12 months imprisonment. HALL with evident thankfulness, said in a loud tone, “Thank you, Sir.”

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 16 November 1855
DEATH OF AN INFANT AT CRICH THROUGH TAKING LAUDANUM
Mr Coroner WHISTON held an inquest on Monday at Crich, on the body of Elizabeth HOLMES, a child eleven months old, whose death took place the Friday previous. It appeared that the mother had put the child to bed between nine and ten o’clock in the morning, and on going about twelve to give it the breast she found it dead. Various reports were in circulation that the death had taken place from laudanum, and this was borne out of some extent owing to the mother of the child having taken large quantities herself, and this affected the life of the child, who was a perfect skeleton. The jury returned a verdict in accordance with the evidence, with a reprimand to the parent for her conduct in taking laudanum whilst suckling.

Derby Mercury 5 December 1855
DEATHS
Rather suddenly, on the 26 ult., Christina Susanna SPARLING, fourth beloved daughter of the Rev W.S. SPARLING, lately of Crich.

1856 newspapers

Derby Mercury 2 January 1856
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
(Before G.H. STRUTT and T.W. EVANS, Esqs)
William WILSON, of Hollow Booth, Crich, was summoned by Samuel LYNAM, for trespassing and damaging trees in a wood belonging to F. HURT, Esq. He was ordered to pay 15s.7d., or be imprisoned 14 days.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 4 January 1856
ROBBERY AT CRICH
Mary STORER, framework-knitter, Crich, pleaded guilty to stealing on 25 December, one sheet, the property of Mary Ann TOPHAM of Crich. One months imprisonment, with hard labour.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 15 February 1856
MARRIAGES
At Bonsall Church, on Thursday the 7th instant, by the Rev G. BAGOT Mr Thomas DAWES, of Crich, to Hannah, daughter of Mr William PEARSON, post-office, Bonsall.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 7 March 1856
PETTY SESSION
[Before G.H. STRUTT, and T.W. EVANS, Esq’s.] – Andrew BLACKWELL and John WOOLLEY, of Crich, were summoned by Charles FLETCHER, for assaulting him at Bull Bridge. They were ordered to pay a fine and expenses, amounting to £1.3s.6d. or one month’s imprisonment. The money was paid.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 7 March 1856
DEATHS
At the house of her aunt, Miss BAMFORD, of Ashover, on the 22nd ult., Maria, the wife of Mr T.W. HALL, surgeon, Crich, in her 47th year.

Derby Mercury 12 March 1856
INQUEST


Inquest on Elizabeth Lee 1856

Derby Mercury 19 March 1856
LATE INQUEST AT CRICH


Inquest on Elizabeth Lee 1856

Derbyshire Courier 22 March 1856
THE KNIFE
William BARNES, on bail, charged with cutting and wounding John VALLANCE, on 21 October at Crich, with intent to do him grievous bodily harm.
[Note: there followed a report of the court action; BARNES was found guilty and received three months imprisonment with hard labour.]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 11 April 1856
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 25th ult., James, only son of Mr Joseph Fidler SMITH, machinist, aged 21.

Derby Mercury 11 June 1856
CRICH
The fete on Crich Cliff, in demonstration of peace, will take place on Tuesday, 17 June, not on Monday as was stated in the Courier of last week, this alteration has been made so that the necessary preparations may be made on the day previous. The committee of management have arranged that one sheep shall be roasted whole on the cliff. Two bullocks and several sheep will be cooked in joints and discussed how the various Inns in the parish. After dinner a procession will be formed, headed by the bands, when they will march to the sound of martial music to Crich Cliff, where they propose to spend the remainder of the day. Several veterans who took part in the late campaign will join the procession. The monster fire will be lit on Crich Cliff precisely at ten o’clock at night, and the committee will be obliged if parties at a distance will commute through the papers stating how far the fire was visible. Many pleasure seekers will avail themselves of the advantages offered by the Midland Railway Company of travelling for one fare, the party not being less than ten, and notice being given previously. The Sutton in Ashfield brass band and Glee singers are engaged. A quadrille band will be in attendance. Tea and more substantial refreshments will be provided on the Cliff at a reasonable charge. It is proposed to have a display of fireworks. This will be a favourite opportunity for the lovers of nature to enjoy the magnificent scenery-around Crich with more than usual advantages.

Derbyshire Courier 21 June 1856
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 11th instant, Edward SELLERS, aged 83 years, for upwards of half a century servant in the family of the late Benjamin BOWMER, Esq, of the same place.

Derby Mercury 25 June 1856
CRICH CLIFF
The fete on Crich Cliff in commemoration of peace came off on Tuesday, June 17th, with great eclat. The appearance of the morning was anything but auspicious, until about ten o'clock, when the ominous clouds began to disperse, and the sun burst forth in all his glory, shining brightly on the faces of the villagers as they stepped lightly to the sound of the merry bells. Flags were hoisted on the church, the stand, and the village cross; others were seen fluttering in the breeze on the tops of the cottages. From many windows the union jack, tricolour, and crescent, proclaimed the happy alliance of the nation. Garlands were suspended, and triumphal arches erected, with suitable mottoes and devices. At twelve o'clock upwards of 500 sat down to dinner at the several inns of the parish, where a most ample provision had been made, that did credit both to the committee of Management and the different hosts and hostesses. It had been arranged that three processions should be formed, each to be accompanied by a band, to meet in the Market-place, there to be united and proceed to the Cliff. When this union had taken place a Sag signal was given, and a discharge of cannon on the Cliff announced that they were in marching order. A large banner was carried in front bearing the inscriptions, "Peace to all the world" and "God save the Queen." Thos. W. HALL, Esq., the chairman of the committee, rode before the procession, which was headed by the Sutton-in- Ashfield Brass Band. The ancient order of druids was represented by two standard bearers in scarlet robes. The chief attraction was a triumphal car, drawn by forty men, in which rode Serjeant WETTON, of the 95th, (Derbyshire) regiment, who lost a leg at the battle of the Alma. The soldier appeared in his regimentals, and wore the Alma medal; also a medal given for distinguished conduct on the field. The car was tastefully designed and decorated by Mr. L. R. SAXTON, Crich. WETTON is a native of this place, and the inhabitants were glad to embrace this opportunity of honouring their townsman. Immediately preceding the chariot was the Derby Juvenile Drum and Fife Band, which created great interest. Hundreds of persons on the cliff were eagerly watching for the first appearance of the procession, which was announced by a second discharge of cannon. The novel sight of so many booths erected, so many flags flying, and above all, so many people assembled on a spot, which is usually as lonely as the desert, was only equalled by the appearance of the procession from the cliff when it first arrived there, its rear not having left the village. This effect was produced by the advantage of the ground, which admitted of every "feature of the procession being seen distinctly. Along the whole line of route banners and flags were waving, and the numbers were swelled by hundreds of spectators. Those who heard the martial notes of the band, the merry peal of bells, and the successive discharges of cannon, will not readily forget the occasion. As the immense numbers continued to arrive on the cliff they dispersed in groups, and on reaching the summit it was evident that many persons gazed on the vast landscape beneath for the first time, from tho feelings of pleasure and astonishment to which they gave expression. Around for miles tho village spires are seen
Tho dusky fallows and the meadows green,
And crowded woods whore sylvan nymphs retreat,
Whose darksome shades exclude tho summer heat.
An American writer, Emerson I believe, says that an English landscape appears as if it were laid out with the pencil and not with the plough ; this maybe said of the scenery around Crich Cliff. The view from the eastern side has many objects of interest, some of which we may notice. First, there is Wingfield Manor-house, one of the ruins with which Oliver Cromwell adorned our land, whose time worn turrets peeping above a wooded eminence, carry us back to the time when
" The warriors on tho turrets high
Moving athwart the evening sky,
Seemed forms of giant height."
Considerably farther in the distance, for Wingfield is only two miles from Crich, may be seen Hardwicke Hall; both these places are interesting as having been the prison houses of the unfortunate Mary Queen of Scots. Stilt farther in the distance appears Bolsover Castle, which is the extreme point of view this way. The most extensive view is in a south-easterly direction, where, on a clear day, the dim outlines of hills may be observed at the distance of about fifty miles. Looking southward, the town of Derby, which is 13 miles off, appears comparatively near, when the immense view beyond is taken into consideration. But for the most romantic scenery we must turn to the north-west, where
" Successive hills majestically rise,
And deep below a lovely valley lies,
'Where through the flowery meads a river glides,
And often in tho woods its waters hides."
It is an agreeable change for the eye to turn from the vast plain we have attempted to describe, to the majestic hills of the Teak as they rise in grand succession, until their blue heads are nearly lost in the distance. About one mile and a half from the Stand in this direction may be seen the home of Florence Nightingale, situated in a lovely valley and sheltered by rising woodlands:
"Far down below in you romantic vale
Appears the home of Florence Nightingale;
That maid heroic whose immortal name
Has been recorded in the hook of fame;
She left these rural scenes, these sylvan bowers,
And meadows now adorned with summer flowers,
Where rosy health in native beauty blooms
To breathe the air of pestilential rooms;
To smooth the pillow of the dying brave,
And stand between our heroes and the grave."
Persons on this occasion had the advantage of seeing objects through a powerful telescope, by the payment of one penny; it is said that the exact time could be seen on the illuminated dial of the Town-hall clock, Derby. The Sutton-in-Ashfield glee singers and brass band (distinguished as the Brick and Tile band) contributed greatly to the pleasure of the day, who executed several airs and glees with great taste. This band played an air on the top of the Stand, which was very effective. After the singers had given a glee, Dr. Spencer HALL (who was present) was requested to address the crowd. He spoke very feelingly of the extent and magnificence of the scenery around, and told them that a gentleman, a Pole, who accompanied him, and who had travelled through many countries in Europe, pronounced it unequalled by anything he had seen, except once, and that was a view in Switzerland. The Dr. spoke briefly but powerfully on the advantages of peace, and the glorious possibility of a universal brotherhood among the nations of the earth. Frequently during his speech, and especially at the conclusion, these sentiments were warmly applauded. The Derby drum and flfe band were indefatigable in their labours: they played polkas, waltzes, quadrilles, and country dances, which gave the lovers of dancing an opportunity of indulging in their favourite exercise. Several quadrille bands were in attendance at the different booths, where every refreshment could be obtained at a reasonable charge. About ten o'clock the large beacon was lit, and another fire in a very large tar copper. It may be said that the monster fire ended in smoke, for the dense black volumes of smoke driven by the wind from the tar copper almost prevented it being seen very far distant, especially southward. It would be observed best in an easterly direction, as the fire was made on the eastern side of the Cliff on account of the wind; reports having already been sent thai it was seen for very many miles in Nottinghamshire. The flames illuminated the features of the hundreds of people assembled on this lofty mountain. The bands continued to play, and the guns that had been fired at intervals during the day were now discharged in quick succession, rockets were sent from the Stand, and the scene altogether had an air of wildness and romance. At eleven o'clock the band played the National Anthem and then proceeded to the village, followed by the bulk of the people, who expressed themselves highly satisfied with the day's pleasure. It is impossible to say how many persons visited the Cliff on this occasion, but it is supposed that upwards of 4,000 were there at one time.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 8 August 1856
John BASFORD, of Crich, summoned by Israel POYSER for trespassing, was ordered to pay fine and expenses amounting to 10s.6d.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 12 September 1856
TESTIMONIAL TO MISS NIGHTINGALE
The inhabitants of the neighbourhood in which Miss Nightingale resides, desirous of testifying their appreciation of her labours in the Crimea, and their gratification at her return to their locality, having subscribed liberally, purchased a handsome paper mashie writing desk, exquisitely inlaid with pearl, and largely furnished with choice stationary, &c. On the front of the desk is a silver plate bearing the following inscription: – “Presented to Florence Nightingale, on her safe arrival at Lea Hurst, from the Crimea, August 8, 1856, as a token of esteem from the inhabitants of Lea, Holloway, and Crich.” Miss Nightingale was communicated with on Monday, and expressed a wish that the presentation might be made in as private a manner as possible; and, in accordance with that wish, only a very small deputation will wait upon her, in the course of this week, and, in the name of the subscribers, present to her that desk and an address.

Derby Mercury 1 October 1856
BELER PETTY SESSIONS
(Before F. HURT, T.W. EVANS, and G.H. STRUTT, Esqs)
Tabatha FLETCHER, summoned by Mr SMITH, of Crich, for leaving his service; she agreed to go back and pay all expenses, she being a hired servant.

Derby Mercury 12 November 1856
WAKEBRIDGE FARM, NEAR CRICH
J.POYSER has received instruction from Mr R SPENDLOVE, of the Wakebridge Farm near Crich, to sell by auction on Thursday, November 13, 1856, at 10 o’clock in the morning the following…
[There followed a lengthily list of farm materials, furniture and equipment .]

Derby Mercury 17 December 1856
NEW FAIR AT CRICH
Our readers will perceive by advertisement in another part of our paper, that it is intended to establish a new fair for cattle and general merchandise at Crich, on the first Monday in the New Year, and we are informed by some agricultural friends, that such a fair has long been wanted, and will, no doubt, be extensively patronised.

1857 newspapers

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 9 January 1857
SALE –also all that newly erected dwellinghouse, butchers shop, slaughter-house, &c, late in the occupation of William HIGDON, with the cottage, barn, stable, and cow house, situated in Crich, occupied by Thomas WETTON and others.
[also for sale was the Mansion House]

Derby Mercury 18 February 1857
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Saturday, the 14th instant, at Crich, on the body of William SWINDELL, aged 33 years, whose death took place the morning previous, from injuries received on Friday, the 6th instant, in consequence of a piece of limestone falling from the rock. It appeared that the deceased was in the act of loading a wagon with limestone when a piece of stone fell suddenly from the rock. A caution was given to “look up,” but before the deceased had time to get away, the stone fell upon his head and fracture the skull so severely as to cause death. The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death.” The deceased has left a widow and five children.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 27 March 1857
NISI PRIUS COURT
WITHAM v THE BUTTERLEY COMPANY
The plaintiff in this action was Mrs WITHAM, who keeps the post-office at Crich, and the action was bought to recover damages from the Butterly company for injuries received through their negligence, in not fencing the side of the line of railway running through Fritchley.
[There followed a lengthy reporting of the court action with witnesses Mrs WHITEMAN and Mr HALL. The result found in her favour and she was awarded £200 in damages]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 27 March 1857
BREACH OF PROMISE OF MARRIAGE – TAYLOR v FOWKES
This was an action for breach of promise of marriage. The defendant pleaded first that he did not agree to marry her; and secondly that the plaintiff absolved herself from the contract.
[There followed a lengthy reporting of the court action between John FOWKES, soldier, and dress-maker Ellen TAYLOR. Involved in the action were: Mrs NADIN, widow; Thomas JACKSON; Ann ALLSOP; Mrs WILD; Ralph SMITH; MrGREAVES; Mr SOWTER, parish clerk at Duffield; The result was an award of £25 to Ellen TAYLOR
]

Derbyshire Courier 18 April 1857
DEATHS
On Friday last, Crich, Ann, relict of Mr John BACON, aged 75.

Derby Mercury 29 April 1857
DEATHS
On Sunday, the 19th instant, Exuperious, son of Mr BROWN, Crich Carr, aged 19.

Derby Mercury 3 June 1857
NEW CHURCH AT WESSINGTON


Foundation of Wessington Church in 1857

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 31 July 1857
STEALING FOWLS AT CRICH
Moses BLAIR, 60, gardener, pleaded guilty to stealing on 13 July, four live fowls and two dead fowls, the property of William PORTER, of Crich, and was sentenced to three months imprisonment with hard labour.

1858 newspapers

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 5 February 1858
DEATHS
At Crich, on the second instant, in the 94th year of his age, Mr Thomas TOWNDROW, late of Coddington house, near Crich.
At Whatstandwell Bridge, on the 30th ult., Mrs Sarah JACKSON, late of the Spread Eagle, Wirksworth.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 5 February 1858
FATAL QUARRY ACCIDENT
Mr Coroner WHISTON held an inquest on Thursday at Crich, on the body of Joseph HARDSTONE, who the previous day was killed owing to his falling down a limestone quarry. It appeared that the deceased and two other men were attempting to force a large piece of rock down, when the stone slipped and sprinted the iron bar which deceased was using, out of his hand, and this unfortunately caused the deceased to fall down the rock, a depth of about 17 yards. The deceased received such injuries has caused his death the same evening. Verdict, “Accidental death.”

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 12 March 1858
DEATHS
A few days ago at Crich, greatly respected, Mr Thomas TOWNDROW, farmer, aged 93.

Derbyshire Courier 10 April 1858
MARRIAGES
On Monday last, at Duffield Church, Mr James CROOKS, of Fritchley, near Crich, to Eliza, daughter of Mr John JACKSON, gardener, Nottingham-Road, Belper.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 16 April 1858
PETTY SESSIONS
Thomas and Joseph ROPER were charged by Eli HOWE with assaulting him at Crich, but the case was dismissed, plaintive having to pay the costs.
Samuel PRINCE, charged by Joseph ROPER with assaulting him at Crich, was fined 6d and 14s costs.
Isaac Cook was summoned by the Board of Guardians for deserting his wife, thereby leaving her chargeable to the parish of Crich, and it being his second offence, he was ordered to pay the expenses £2.18s or two months imprisonment.

Derby Mercury 21 April 1858
DEATHS
At his residence, the Edge Farm, Crich, on the 17th instant, in the 63rd year of his age, Mr William PORTER. Of him it may be truly said, he was an excellent husband, a kind and indulgent parent, and as a neighbour and friend, highly esteemed by all who enjoyed the pleasure of his acquaintance.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 23 April 1858
PETTY SESSIONS
Francis TURTON, summoned by Joseph APPLEBY, of Crich, for wages, was ordered to pay £1.4s.6d and 12s.6d. costs.
Thomas STORER, of Crich, charged by police constable HUNTINGDON with being drunk and incapable, was fined 5s and 11s 6d.costs.
Benjamin CHELL, of Crich, charged by the same constable with similar offence, was muleted in a like amount.

Derby Mercury 5 May 1858
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Monday last, at Crich, on the body of Thomas COWLISHAW, aged 55 years, whose death took place very suddenly the previous day. It appeared that the deceased had been out in the morning and return home to his dinner, and in a few minutes life was extinct. There being no appearance of violence, a verdict of “Natural death” was returned.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 14 May 1858
MARRIAGES
On Monday, the 3rd instant, at Christ Church Derby, by the Rev G. CARSON, curate, Mr William GARRATT, butcher, second son of Mr GARRAT, farmer Little Eaton, to Miss Mary WRIGHT, of Crich.

Derbyshire Courier May 1858
DEATHS
On the 14th instant, at Crich Carr, Mrs Sarah PEACH, aged 64.
On the same day, at Crich Carr, the son of Mr D. BROADHURST, aged 10 years.
At Crich, on the 12 instant, Mrs Mary STEEPLES, aged 78.
At Thurlow Booth, near Crich, on the 12 instant, Hannah, relict of the late Mr William POYSER, gamekeeper to the late Francis HURT, Esq Alderwasley, aged 75.

Derby Mercury 19 May 1858
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Saturday, the 8th instant, Mr William FORD, of Southwingfield Manor, to Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Mr John HOPKINSON, of Wheatcroft.

Derby Mercury 23 June 1858
BELPER PETTY SESIONS
Sarah FLETCHER, Rebecca FLETCHER, and Abigail FLETCHER, all of Crich, were charged by Ann FULLNARD with assaulting her and endangering her life. – Find £1 and 9s.6d. costs each or to be committed to Derby Gaol for two months.
Thomas COIN, labourer, of Crich, was charged by his master J. BURTON, with stealing a quantity of marked eggs out of the cow house. – Discharged on his paying the expenses 7s.6d.

Derby Mercury 30 June 1858
DEATHS
At Elm-tree,house, Derby, on Wednesday, the 23rd instant, Mr John FROST, late of Crich, in his 80th year. Mr FROST was a man of great ingenuity, and remarkable for a genial disposition and for his social and moral worth. He was once complimented in some published verses by a kindred spirit, as “the Man of Crich.” and few men could be more missed in that locality, where he was everybody’s neighbour and friend, when one was wanted. Some highly respectable relatives residing in Derby had hoped to afford him a comfortable home amongst them in his declining days; but death stole upon him within six weeks of his change of residence, and his remains were interred at Crich, on Friday last.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 9 July 1858
William HAYS, of Crich, charged by William LYNAM, gamekeeper to F. HURT, Esq, with illegal fishing in the Amber, was fined 1s and 10s 6d costs, and allowed a fortnight to pay.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 30 July 1858
DEATHS
At Crich, Matilda Elizabeth, third daughter of N. HATHAWAY, Esq, aged 17; deeply lamented by her relatives and friends. Her end was peace.

Derbyshire Times and Chesterfield Herald 24 July 1858
CRICH
On the night of Monday, the 13th instant, between the hours of 10 and 12, at intervals, a most extra ordinary noise, like that of distant thunder, which literally appeared to shake the earth for a considerable distance was heard and felt in this neighbourhood; when it was ascertained from whence it proceeded immense crowds thronged to the place. The Clay Cross Company’s limestone works are situated at the base of the large mountain called the Cliff; here it was discovered that a fissure had been rent in the face of the quarry and from 10 to 12,000 tons of limestone sent shivering down in all directions. There is an immense peak separated by the fissure from the face of the rock; it stands in a very tottering and precarious position. Had the labourers employed by the company been at work, the probability is, they would have sustained loss of life or limb.

Derby Mercury 18 August 1858
MARRIAGES
On Wednesday, the 11th instant, at Matlock Church, by the Rev W. MELVILLE, Nathaniel WHEATCROFT, Esq, snr, Chapelhill, Cromford,, to Mrs BUXTON, late of Crich.
DEATHS
On Saturday week, at Kensington, of apoplexy, the Rev George William LEWIS, M.A. formally curate of the Chapel of Ease, Ramsgate, afterwards incumbent of St Peter’s Southwark, and late vicar of Crich, Derbyshire, in his 63rd year.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 20 August 1858
PETTY SESIONS
Francis TURTON was charged by Anthony YEOMANS, of Crich, with non-payment of wages, £3.10s. Defendant not appearing, he was ordered to pay the amount claimed, with 15s 6d expenses, in seven days.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 29 October 1858
DEATHS
At Crich Carr, on the 18th instant, Ann, relict of the late Mr Henry BUXTON, Gent.
Suddenly, at Crich, on the 11th instant, Mrs Tamar WALKER.

Derby Mercury 10 November 1858
BELPER PETTY SESIONS
The following tradesmen and shopkeepers of Crich were convicted of having defective weights: John STOCKS, grocer, – costs 8s 6d, Mary LEAM, grocer fine and costs,£1 0s 6d, Benjamin TAYLOR, butcher fine and costs £1 0s 6d, Herbert GOODALL grocer and draper fine and costs £1 0s 6d, William CHEETHAM, grocer fine and costs £1 0s 6d, John TAYLOR, Butcher fine and costs £1 0s 6d, John HEIGHTON. grocer fine and costs 8s 6d, James BURTON, grocer, fine and costs 8s 6d, James LEE draper and grocer fine and costs £1 0s 6d, Francis BLUNDERSTONE, grocer fine and costs 8s 6d, Thomas SMITH, grocer fine and costs,£1 0s 6d, Sarah FLETCHER, flour dealer fine and costs 8s 6d, John BROWN, grocer fine and costs £1 0s 6d, Edmund WIGLEY, grocer fine and costs 8s 6d.

Derby Mercury 22 December 1858
BELPER PETTY SESIONS
Rebecca COWLISHAW, of Crich, was charged by Sarah FLETCHER, of the same place, with assaulting her, and the case was dismissed for a similar reason.
[this was for lack of evidence.]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 24 December 1858
CRICH NEW FAIR
We are informed that on the first Monday in January next it is intended to hold a fair at Crich for the sale of cattle, and statutes for the hiring of servants, to be continued annually.

1859 newspapers

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 14 January 1859
PETTY SESIONS
Samuel LEAM, of Crich, was charged by Bessy COIN of Crich with assaulting her on the 5th instant. Find £1 (to be paid to complainant) and 13s costs.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 4 February 1859
PETTY SESIONS
John SHIPLEY, of Crich, charged by Samuel LYNAM, gamekeeper, with cutting some Holly saplings, at Crich Chase, on the 26th instant the property of F. HURT, Esq, of Alderwasley, was fined 12s 6d. including costs, or 14 days imprisonment. F. HURT, Esq did not adjudicate in this case.
Arthur TAYLOR, of Alfreton, charged by Catherine BESTWICK, of Crich, with being the father of her illegitimate child, and admitting the same, was ordered to pay 2s per week and £2 13s 6d expenses.

Derby Mercury 23 March 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
James TAYLOR, of Crich, charged by Joseph HOPKINS with wilfully burning a waistcoat, his property. The case was settled out of court, defendant compensating complainant, who paid expenses amounting to 10s 6d.

Derbyshire Courier 2 April 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Isaac JACKSON, of Crich, was charged by Joseph SYMS, of Crich, with stealing some coals, value 4d, his property. The case was dismissed for want of evidence.

Derby Mercury 13 April 1859
FATAL ACCIDENT AT CRICH
On Friday last Mr WHISTON, held an inquest at Crich, upon the body of a child three years old, named William MURPHY. On the 6th instant the deceased whilst playing on the banks of the river Amber, stooped over the water to reach a twig, when he fell into the river and was drowned. His body was immediately recovered, but life was quite extinct. A verdict of “Accidentally drowned” was returned.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 20 May 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
David SLATER, of Crich, was summoned by Ann SMITH for non-payment of wages, and an order made for payment of the amount, 13s 6d and 7s 6d costs.
Isaac FLINT, butcher, of Crich, was summoned by George BATTERLY, of the same place, for assaulting him. The case was settled out of court by permission of the magistrate on paying 14s 6d costs.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 27 May 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Israel HAWKINS, labourer, Crich, charged by George HALL, of Crich, with assaulting him. Settled out of court by permission of the bench, defendant paying costs £1 1s.

Derbyshire Courier 4 June 1859
MARRIAGES
On the 30th ult. at the parish church Matlock, Mr John JOHNSON, of Crich, to Miss Sarah WAGSTAFF, of Cromford.

Derby Mercury 15 June 1859
ASSAULTING A CONSTABLE
Joseph SIMONS, of Crich, was charged with assaulting Sergeant KERRY, at Smalley, and wilfully damaging his clothes. Sergeant KERRY, said, on Monday last he, in company with other constables, saw the defendant drunk and rolling about in a field belonging to J. RADFORD Esq. He requested him to go home, but he refused and was very violent, kicking the constables and tearing their clothes. He was ordered to pay a fine of 10s and costs.

Derby Mercury 13 July 1859
MARRIAGES
On June 30, at Ironville, Codnor Park, by the Rev John CASSON, Thomas Winfield HALL, Esq, surgeon, Crich, to Miss Elizabeth BIRKS, of Ironville.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 15 July 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Thomas CURZON, blacksmith, of Crich, was bought up on remand, charged by acting Sgt STEVENSON with stealing a watch, the property of Samuel BAINES, of Crich. Prosecutor not being able to identify the watch, prisoner was discharged.

Derbyshire Courier 27 August 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Francis TURTON, labourer, Crich, was charged by Emma CAULDWELL with being the father of her illegitimate child. Defendant admitted the case. Order to pay 2s per week and £1 7s costs.
Emmanuel HUNT, labourer, Crich, was charged by Hannah BARNES with arrears of bastardy.

Derbyshire Courier 27 August 1859
DEATHS
At Crich, after a long illness, on the 19th instant, aged 59, Mr Joseph WITHAM, thirty-one years post-master of that place.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 2 September 1859
BELPER PETTY SESIONS
George STEVENSON, police-constable, Crich, was charged by George CURZON, labourer, of Crich with assaulting him. Case dismissed.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 9 September 1859
BELPER PETTY SESIONS
George COWLISHAW, engine cleaner, Derby, was charged by Hannah LIMB, of Crich, with being the father of her illegitimate child. Ordered to pay 2s per week, and£1 13s 6d costs.
William GRATION, of Crich was charged by Enoch TAYLOR, of the same place, with assaulting him. Case settled out of court, by defendant paying complainant 5s, and costs 12s 6d,

Derbyshire Courier 17 September 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Mr Ralph SMITH, publican, Crich, was charged by John FRITH with assaulting him. Case settled by defendant paying costs 8s 6d.

Derbyshire Courier 29 October 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Ann JOHNSON charged Alfred JOHNSON, lead smelter, Crich, with assaulting her. Case settled by defendant to paying the costs 8s 6d.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 4 November 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
John WALKER, farmer, Crich, was charged with being drunk and incapable of taking care of himself. Fined 5s and costs 8s 6d.

Derbyshire Courier 19 November 1859
ALFRETON PETTY SESSIONS
STEALING A COAT
George LEAFE, of Crich, framework-knitter, was brought up in custody of Inspector GORMAN, charged with stealing a pilot overcoat, the property of William GIBSON, of Wingfield, on the 4th instant. Prisoner pleaded guilty, and was sentenced to one month’s imprisonment with hard labour.

Derbyshire Courier 19 November 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Samuel PRINCE, boatman, Crich, was charged by James HOWE, of the same place, with assaulting him. Case allowed to be settled by defendant paying costs 8s 6d.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 2 December 1859
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 10th ult. Mary, daughter of the late George HAY, of Crich Chase, aged 75.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 16 December 1859
BELPER PETTY SESSIONS
Nathan STREET, stonemason, of Belper, was charged by George WETTON, of Crich, with assaulting him. Case adjourned to the next meeting.
William SHIPTON, of Crich, was charged by Matilda SHAW, of the same place, of being the father of her illegitimate child. Ordered to pay 2s per week and costs.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 16 December 1859
DEATHS
At Alfreton, on the 7th instant, other house of his son-in-law, Mr George HANBURY, Mr Samuel CURZON, of Crich in his 79th year.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 23 December 1859
ALFRETON PETTY SESSIONS
George BOLLINGTON, of Crich, labourer, was charged by P.C. GRIMSHAW with being drunk and disorderly at South Wingfield on 24 November. Defendant admitted the offence, and was fined in the same penalty and costs.
[This was 5s with 10s 6d costs].