News Snippets between 1885 and 1889

What follows are news snippets with Crich Parish interest from various newspapers between 1885 and 1889.

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; plus omissions are possible owing to human error.

ACRAMAN BURTON HARRISON MEE STATHAM
ALLSOP COLEMAN HASLAM MUSGROVE TAYLOR
AMATT COLLINS HAWKES MYERS TOMLINSON
BALL COOPER HEAPY OAKDEN TURNER
BARBER COPE, COUPE HIGTON OSBERTON TYLER
BARTON COWLISHAW HOLMES PIGGIN WALKER
BATES DAVIS JESSOP RADFORD WARMBY
BERRESFORD DAWES KIRK ROE WASS
BLAND DUNKLEY KIRKELAND ROLLEY WATTS
BOAG DUNN KNEEBONE SAXTON WETTON
BOLLINGTON EPPERSON KNIGHTON SHACKLOCK WHEATCROFT
BOWMER FROST LEAFE SHEPPARD WILKINSON
BROGDALE GOODALL LEE SHIPLEY WRAGG
BROWN GREAVES MARTIN SIMS YEOMANS
BUNTING HANCOCK MASON SMITH YOUNG

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.

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 1875 guinea would be worth about £80 in 2021. The newspapers usually recorded the pound sign with "l" not £ as transcribed.

During this period the dominant and frequent Crich reports were about the parish conflict with its vicar, Rev William ACRAMAN, and the subsequent frequent landslips following on from 1882 great landslip. These were far too extensive and long for all of them to be included here. However, more about these events can be found elsewhere on the site:

Rev William Acraman
1882 Crich landslip

In previous snippets the court reports of frequent drunk, riotous behaviour and minor assaults were recorded. These continued unabated with the usual suspects but, in the main, have not been continued here unless they added more information for the family historian.

There were frequent adverts for Crich spar, Crich lime and turkeys from Dimple Poultry Farm, Crich.
Adverts for bicycles started appearing.

1885 newspapers

Derbyshire Courier 7 February 1885
WORKING MEN’S MEETING AT CRICH
On Tuesday night a meeting of workingmen was held in the National School, Crich…[more followed]
The chairman said that the workingmen of Crich had at last been conceded their privilege, and had now, or at least would shortly have, a direct vote on Imperial matters. The division would be somewhat narrowed by the change involved in the passing of the Redistribution scheme, and the county would be divided into seven districts, each having one member. Crich in future would have 700 voters instead of 200 as previously.
[a long article followed, which included…]
Hitherto it had been the few who had conducted the legislative business of the country; but he was glad to say the first meeting was being held by workingmen of Crich to discuss political questions…
The chairman, before putting the resolution to the meeting, said that Mr T.W.EVANS, M.P., had not been to Crich for nearly 11 years, and many of them had never seen his face. The last time he was at Crich he stood in the marketplace as the representative of a few, but he would now have to reckon with the many.…
[Note: The Redistribution of Seats Act 1885 was a piece of electoral reform legislation that redistributed the seats in the House of Commons, introducing the concept of equally populated constituencies, an attempt to equalise representation across the UK].

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 20 March 1885
At the last sitting of the Court, Abraham DAWES, as one of the trustees for the Independent Friendly Society, Crich, sued Richard YOUNG for £13 for rent of land. Mr WHEATCROFT, for defendant, held that the society had no power to hold land. His Honor today gave judgement in the case. He said he had no doubt it was 'ultra vires' in the trustees of the society to hold land. They had no right to buy it. But the defendant was the tenant of the land, and had paid rent for years. He could not dispute the landlord’s title. Verdict for plaintiff; amount to be paid in fourteen days.

Derbyshire Courier 4 April 1885
CRICH – TEA AND CONCERT
On Saturday last a public team meeting was held in the British Schoolroom, Crich. A concert in behalf of the Crich United Drum and Fife Band was afterwards given to a large and appreciative audience.[a long report followed].

Derbyshire Courier 4 April 1885
On Tuesday morning an accident occurred to a labourer named William BOLLINGTON, at the Clay Cross Company’s Crich Cliff Limestone Quarries. A shot had been set and men had removed to places of supposed safety, when a large stone was sent a considerable distance by the force of the explosion in the direction of a group of men, and it caught BOLLINGTON on the arm, which was much bruised and broken. Dr GREAVES was speedily in attendance, and rendered assistance to the injured man. It is only a few years since BOLLINGTON met with an accident in the same quarries, by which he was blind for a considerable time, and has only now partially recovered his sight.

Derbyshire Courier 16 May 1885
William STANESBY, late of Belper, brewer, sued Agnes BATES, of Crich, widow, for a barrel of beer, supplied prior to her husband’s death. His Honour was informed that the estate had been realised, and that the defendant had paid more than was secured. Verdict for defendant, as she was not sued as executrix.

Derbyshire Courier 30 May 1885
CRICH
[There followed a long report regarding the Crich Cliff Quarry Sick and Funeral Society fête; also the Crich Female Friendly Society (which had over 100 members) anniversary.]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 19 June 1885
CRICH
On Friday, as a man named Thomas BOWMER was ramming a shot at the Cliff Quarry it exploded and cause serious injury to BOWMER. He raised his right arm to protect his face, and a hole was blown through the arm. He was conveyed to his home, and was attended by Dr DUNN. On Saturday his condition was regarded as critical.

Derby Daily Telegraph 19 June 1885
On Wednesday a fatal bathing accident occurred at Hollow Booth, near Crich. About 4 o’clock three boys named George ALLSOP, Thomas TAYLOR and David WASS, residing at Crich Carr, went to bathe in the Cromford canal.Wass got into the water, and was soon out of his depth. A man named Francis SHIPLEY, who was coming from the Ambergate Wire Works, hastened to the spot on hearing the cries of the other lads, but before he could enter the water WASS had sunk for the last time. After some difficulty the body was recovered. The deceased was about ten years of age.

Derby Mercury 24 June 1885
WHATSTANDWELL
On Wednesday evening a lad, aged ten years – D. WASS, son of Mr R. WASS, of this village went with two other lads about the same age to bathe in the Midland Railway Company’s Canal. Deceased ran on first, and got into the water, and before the other two reached the canal they saw him sink. Help was summoned, and the body was shortly after brought to the bank by Mr Frank SHIPLEY, of Crich, but life was extinct. Much sympathy is expressed in the neighbourhood for the deceased lad’s parents. The inquest was held on Friday at the Bull’s Head Inn, before Mr W.H. WHISTON, coroner, on the body. The jury, after hearing the whole of the evidence, returned a verdict of “Accidentally drowned.” One of the jurors who suggested that the school masters of the neighbourhood be asked to warn the boys that bathing in the canal was dangerous. Sergeant MEE , of Crich, promised to carry out that suggestion. The Coroner, on behalf of the jury and himself, signed F. SHIPLEY for the promptitude he showed in getting the lad out of the water. He said that of course it is only what was to be expected from a younger man, but unfortunately, we often heard of the great amount of cowardice shown at times in drowning cases.

Derbyshire Courier 18 July 1885
CRICH
John COLEMAN, quarryman, Crich, was summoned at the Belper Petty Sessions, on Thursday, for leaving the employment of the Clay Company without giving notice. Mr BOAG, the Company’s manager said the defendant absented himself from the 3rd to 10th July. He was under obligation to give a month’s notice. The defendant said he had been hay-making, and did not think the company would be hard. Mr BOAG remarked that they were obliged to bring the case for example, as they had contracts to fulfil, and with so many men staying away it resulted in considerable loss. The firm would be satisfied on payment of expenses. A fine of 1s and costs was imposed. A claim for one guinea for loss of services was not asked for.

Derbyshire Times 18 July 1885
TO THE EDITOR
Sir, would you kindly insert the following in your valuable paper. It has been reported through the columns of the Derbyshire Courier by a correspondent at Crich, that when John Burton BARROW Esq, the Conservative candidate for Mid-Derbyshire, visited Crich, the Crich Brass Band were surprised that they had not been paid better for playing the honourable candidate up from Whatstandwell into Crich. Now, whoever the correspondent was, I should like to know how and from whom he got his information. Information that is on the whole a complete fabrication, but at the same time suitable to the Radicals of this district. I myself, being one concerned with the band, say distinctly they were well paid simply for about an hour’s playing. I hope that our Radical friend when he next writes as a correspondent to a weekly paper will get more reliable information, and that the Radical party will engage the band when Mr JACOBY visits Crich.
I remain, yours truly, one interested in the band.

Derbyshire Courier 29 August 1885
CRICH WATER SUPPLY

Crich water supply 1885

Derby Mercury 2 September 1885
Dorothy COLLINS was charged with assaulting Mary WILKINSON, at Crich, on the 23rd instant. Prosecutrix said she was walking near to defendant’s house, where the latter through some water over her. There appears to have been some ill feeling between the parties as to a right of way. Defendant was fined 2s 6d and costs.

Derbyshire Courier 26 September 1885
CRICH
FUNERAL SERVICES
On Monday evening a special service was held in the Baptist school room to “improve” the death of Florrie, the only daughter of Mr and Mrs J. OAKDEN, she having attended the school as a scholar for several years. A discourse on the words “Cometh forth like a flower” was given by Mr C. LEAFE. A large congregation assembled, much sympathy been felt for the family.
DAMAGING PROPERTY
At the Belper Public Hall, on Thursday, Robert BARBER, a little boy, of Crich, was charged with damaging an outhouse roof and a stack of hay at Crich, on the 5th instant, doing injury to the amount of 2s. The complainant, John HANCOCK, said he saw the stack which was damaged in consequence of rain falling, and the roof of the outhouse cost him 8s to have repaired. There were several other lands on the stack at the time but they had apologised, and their parents had defrayed expenses. A fine of 6d was imposed, 2s damages to pay, and 13s costs.

Derbyshire Courier 3 October 1885
CRICH
On Monday night, a newly erected stone built house, situate at Crich, known as The Sycamores, with pleasure ground, garden, stables, coach-house, outbuildings, etc., which was held under the will of the late Mr Henry COWLISHAW, stone merchant, Crich. The bidding was spirited, the property being eventually sold for £900 to Mr Jno. SAXTON , of Crich.
[There were several properties for auction during this time which had "pleasure grounds" attached].

Derbyshire Courier 10 October 1885
THREAT TO MURDER
At the Belper Public Hall, on Thursday, Ann EPPERSON, of Crich, a married woman, was charged with threatening to “murder” Mary Ann WALKER, at Crich, on the 28th September. They were neighbours, and had a quarrel about a fence. After several altercations, defendant threatened to murder her, and she was now in fear. Defendant was bound over in her own surety of £10, and another in £5 to keep the peace towards Mrs WALKER for six months. The expenses amounted to £2 3s 3d, which defendant had to pay.

1886 newspapers

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 26 February 1886
SERIOUS TRAP ACCIDENT
On Tuesday, a serious trap accident occurred on the Duffield-road. Mr COUPE, of Crich, was driving to Derby, and when he had arrived near the old toll-gate house, his horse bolted. Mr COUPE was thrown out of the trap with considerable violence. Sustaining slight injuries to his left shoulder. The horse proceeded at a rapid speed towards the town, and eventually the vehicle to which it was attached was smashed. The horses still went on, and when it stopped, it was dragging the shafts and wheels behind it. The animal was injured about its hind legs, and had to be put in the Mayor’s stables, on the Duffield-road.

Derbyshire Times 27 February 1886
CRICH
On Tuesday afternoon a carriage accident took place on the outskirts of Derby near the Old Toll Bar. Mr COPE, of Grove House, Crich, was driving into Derby when his horse took fright, and kicked out so violently that Mr COPE was thrown out heavily onto the ground. The horse then bolted in the direction of the town, and was not stopped until it had reached the Bull’s Head Inn. The vehicle had been very much damaged, and the horse was found to be bleeding profusely. Mr COPE though badly bruised, happily sustained no very serious injury.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 5 March 1886
CRICH
THE RELIEF OF UNEMPLOYED
At Crich a relief committee, consisting of prominent parishioners, has been formed to collect subscriptions and distribute relief. Altogether £38 7s has been collected, and it has been spent in bread, groceries, and coal, distributed and manage gratuitously by gentlemen well acquainted with the circumstances of the people of the parish. Mrs R. BOAG is president, Mr John DAWES secretary, and Mr J. BURTON treasurer.

Derby Mercury March 10 1886
Death of a Centenarian
During the past few days, Mr Joseph BLAND of Crich has died at the age of 103 years. He was buried in the parish churchyard. It is believed that Mr BLAND's death was somewhat hastened by the severity of the weather.
[ Note:Joseph BLAND buried 2 March 1886 at Crich] .

Ilkeston Pioneer 5 April 1866
DEATHS
On the 27th ult., at Crich, Mr John BOWMER, late of Barn Close, Fritchley, aged 66 years, beloved and respected by all who knew him.

Derby Mercury 7 April 1886
THE QUALIFICATION OF SHACKLOCK
[In the newspapers there was much discussion on Francis Joseph SHACKLOCK’s eligibility for playing cricket for Nottinghamshire. He was a cricketer of some renown, born at Crich but the family moved to Nottinghamshire when he was aged six and he learnt to play cricket there. In 1884, because he was not selected to play for Nottinghamshire County, he played two seasons for Derbyshire. Later he was invited to play for Nottinghamshire County which he did but his entitlement was disputed by Derbyshire. SHACKLOCK’s response was reported in a long newspaper article; an extract...]
My only reason for playing for Derbyshire in 1884 was that I was not considered good enough by the committee of Notts to play for them – for surely it cannot be supposed for a moment that any cricketer having a qualification to play for these two counties would by choice select Derbyshire. I have worked hard during last season, and I think it is a fair argument to use – that if I have now been able to obtain a place in the Notts Eleven, Derbyshire has reaped the benefit of my exertions as well as myself, and I confidently leave the whole matter for decision of the M.C.C. or any other body of independent gentlemen.
[Further information on SHACKLOCKView ].

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 13 April 1866
MARRIAGES
At Crich on the 2nd inst., Mr Robert ALSOP, to Susannah MUSGROVE, both of Crich Carr

Derbyshire Times 17 April 1886
CRICH – A FRAGMENT OF FAMILY HISTORY

Artle on Kirkeland family of Crich

Derby Mercury 21 April 1886
CRICH
[A report of the death of Mrs Emma COOPER, wife of Samuel COOPER, grocer, of Bull Bridge, aged 60 years. Considerable damage to the shop and contents through accidental fire. Inquest at the Canal Inn recorded “ Death from accidental burns.”] .

Derbyshire Times 5 June 1886
[A report into the accidental death of William ROLLEY, quarryman, of Crich, aged 60, on the 15th ult. at the Clay Cross Company limeworks where he was crushed by a wagon. ]

Derbyshire Times 11 December 1886
NOTICES
The report of the National School Concert at Fritchley, Crich, is so illegibly written that we cannot attempt to publish it.

1887 newspapers

Derbyshire Times 29 January 1887
CRICH
James AMATT, who was injured in the Clay Cross Stone Company’s quarry on Thursday, died in the Derby Infirmary on Saturday night from the injuries. The deceased was 40 years of age, and resided in the Market place, at Crich. The injuries consistent of a broken leg, and he was also injured internally by a fall of stone.
[Mr BOAG and Joseph ROE were witnesses at the inquest] .

Derby Mercury 9 February 1887
AMBERGATE
A few days since a car was bought in Derby by Mr HIGTON, butcher, Crich. The animal was very quiet, and had to be removed to Ambergate Station by rail. On arrival there she seemed distracted with the noise, and, when once loosed from the barriers that prevented her escape, she took across country and gave her owner an inconvenient chase. She got in a wood near Crich, and darkness coming on had to be left for the night. Next morning the cow had disappeared from the wood, having crossed the canal, railway, road, and river Derwent, and entered the Ambergate Wire Works, and taken refuge in the fitting shop. By great exertion and diligence the cow was removed, but again she made off, and got to the farm of Mr SMITH, at Alderwasley. There she seemed to settle down, and after allowing her time to reflect she was killed. Every effort has been made to get the animal to Mr HIGTON’s but without avail. The way in which she cleared walls and fences was marvellous. It is supposed the noise on the railway drove the annual frantic.

Derby Mercury 23 March 1887
THE FUNERAL OF A POET IN THE PEAK

article about Alexamder Brogdale 1887

Derbyshire Courier 29 March 1887
[An article on the death of Alexander BROGDALE of Fritchley ]

Death f Alexander Brogdale 1887

Derby Daily Telegraph 19 May 1887
On Monday a serious accident occurred to a workman named Alexander TOMLINSON, of Crich, who was employed by the works of Mr Thewlis JOHNSON, Ambergate, as a wire drawer. It appears that while the unfortunate man was at work he was caught on-the-thigh by a length of wire which was being drawn, and he was lifted towards the machinery. Fortunately wire broke, otherwise the accident might be more serious. He was immediately conveyed to his home, where he was attended to by Dr GREAVES.

Derbyshire Times 25 May 1887
The report of Dr GAYLOR, one of the medical officers of health, was read dealing with a visit to a house at Crich Carr, occupied by Mr William BOLLINGTON. There was a father, son, and two daughters, with five illegitimate children, living in one place. There were three rooms, but nothing worthy of the name of bedding to be seen. The house was destitute, not dirty. The landlord could not get them out, and no older would let the house. The Clerk said two of the children had been ordered by the magistrates to an industrial school.
[In 1881William was was in gaol , widower. ]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 10 June 1887
BELPER PETTY SESSION
William BOLLINGTON, quarry man, Crich, was charged with neglecting an order of maintenance. He was 69 payments in arrears upon an order to contribute 1s per week towards the support of his mother. The defendant was stated to earn 16s or £1 per week when he will work. Sent to gaol for one month.
[See report Derbyshire Times 25 May 1887]

Derby Daily Telegraph 6 October 1887
CRICH
On Wednesday afternoon, Mr W.H. WHISTON, coroner, held an inquest at Crich, on the body of William GOODALL, aged 75, who is found dead in his house on Tuesday morning. Alice BALL, wife of William BALL, collier, identified the body as that of her father, who was a wood cutter. Six or seven years ago deceased had a severe attack of bronchitis. Mary Ann BOLLINGTON, of Crich, said she knew deceased, and lived close to him. She saw him about nine o’clock on Monday night, when he was lying on the sofa in his house smoking. He seemed all right, but complain of his back hurting him. Deceased lived alone, and not seeing him about next morning, which was an unusual thing, she tried to get in the house. The door was locked, so a ladder was procured and they got through the chamber window. Deceased was found lying on the sofa in the same position as he had been seen by witness on the previous evening. He had his clothes on, and was discoloured about his mouth and nose. The jury returned a verdict to the effect that the deceased “died suddenly from the visitation of God” – syncope being the precise cause of death.

Derby Mercury 19 October 1887
FRITCHLEY
A man named John SHEPPARD, living at Crich, in the employ of Mr Samuel RADFORD, farmer, of Fritchley, was engaged on Wednesday in felling apples in the orchard of his master when he accidentally slipped and fell from the tree, dislocating his neck. He was carried immediately to the farmhouse but expired in a few minutes. Deceased was over 50 years of age, and leaves a wife, but no family. At the inquest a verdict of accidental death was returned.

Derby Daily Telegraph 7 November 1887
RURAL SANITARY AUTHORITY
Dr GAYLOR mentioned the case of typhoid fever at Crich. James TAYLOR, butcher, cattle dealer, and licensed victualler, who was in the habit of attending many fairs and markets, was attacked the disease and died in nine days. His partner named BARTON was ill at the same time, but this was stated to be a chest disease. The residences of both parties were supplied with water from the town pump at Crich, and no fault could be found with the water itself. Some time ago the premises of Mr TAYLOR were thoroughly overhauled, and the drainage made good, so that the history of the typhoid fever in this case must be traced to a source outside the parish of Crich.
The doctor also alluded to a beer house at Fritchley, owned by Mr HARDY, Brewer, of Kimberley. There was a large room in which the tenant and his family slept, 27 feet long, 11 feet wide, and 8 feet six high. He did not think it was a proper room for persons to sleep in.
Some discussion took place with reference to the water supply of Crich. The matter had been before the local committee, and Mr R. ARGILE had prepared a report on the scheme for procuring supply for the upper part of the village at a cost of £1100. No satisfactory decision had been come to add Mr R. WAITE moved that the Parochial Commission be invited to suggest means of providing a proper water supply for the 73 ratepayers who signed a memorial in July 1885. This business has occupied considerable attention at Crich, but no decided action has yet been taken owing to the cost of conveying water for a distance.

Derbyshire Times 16 November 1887
George TURNER, farmer, of Wheatcroft, near Crich, was summoned for using a cart without having his name painted thereon, on October 28, and the charge was admitted, but as it was shown that the defendant only purchased the cart the day previous charge was dismissed.

Derbyshire Times 17 December 1887
CRICH
A nonagenarian, named John KNEEBONE, met with his death under painful circumstances at Crich recently. His health had been critical for some time and he had received the attendance of Dr GRAVES. The deceased lived by himself, and was heard groaning during the night time. A neighbour having her suspicions aroused entered the house, and discovered the old man lying with his back close to the fire grate, his clothes having caught fire. Death ensued. At the inquest a verdict was returned to the effect that the deceased died from the shock to the system sustain through being burnt accidentally.

Derbyshire Times 24 December 1887
DEATHS
December 17, at Plaistow Green ,Crich, Sarah Ellen, daughter of Alfred and Emma HASLAM, aged 13 years .

1888 newspapers

Derbyshire Times 7 January 1888
WHATSTANDWELL
The managers of the Crich Carr National School, Whatstandwell, have had notice from the Sanitary Authority to keep the school closed for the present, owing to the serious outbreak of measles. The disease has prevailed over a month, the case is being numerous. Two deaths have occurred amongst the children attacked.

Derbyshire Times 14 January 1888
DEATHS
On January 5, 1888, at the Mansion House, Crich Henry Ralph MYERS, aged 7 years.

Derbyshire Times 28 January 1888
MARRIAGES
December 24, at Rat Portage, Ontario, Canada, Joseph BUNTING, formerly of Ashover to Mary Elizabeth PIGGIN, eldest daughter of the late John PIGGIN, Crich.

Derbyshire Times 4 February 1888
DEATHS
On the 22nd instant, Penelope TYLER, eldest daughter of the late Thomas WHEATCROFT of Crich. Interred in St Michael’s Churchyard, Crich, January 26.

Derbyshire Times 11 February 1888
FASHIONABLE WEDDING AT CRICH

Rev Acraman's wedding 1888

Derbyshire Courier 3 March 1888
CRICH
Mr W.Harvey WHISTON (coroner for the district) held an inquest at the Black Swan Inn, Crich, on the body of an infant names Arthur HOLMES, the illegitimate child of Sarah HOLMES, of Crich. Catherine HARRISON, sister of the last named person, identified the body, and stated that she was the wife of William HARRISON, of Crich. The deceased, who was born on 19 February, had been a weak child since its birth, and died on Sunday last. After hearing the whole of the evidence the jury returned a verdict of “Death from convulsions.”

Derby Mercury 28 March 1888
CRICH
On Thursday a young man named Luke WRAGG, aged 18, son of Mr Luke WRAGG, fell from a ledge of rock, the distance of 16 feet, in the Hilts Quarry, injuring himself badly about the face and head.

Derbyshire Times 21 April 1888
MARRIAGES
At Crich church on the 17th instant by the Rev H. MILNES, vicar of Winster, assisted by the Rev W. ACRAMAN, vicar of Crich, James Thomas LEE, to Hannah Ruth HOLMES, both of Crich, also Lucy Frances LEE, to Charles WINSTANLEY, of Didsbury, Manchester.

Derbyshire Courier 12 May 1888
CRICH
On Saturday afternoon a house at Plaistow Green, near Crich, occupied by Mr S. YEOMANS, was set on fire by a spark from the chimney, which ignited the roof. The building was very much damaged. Neighbours assisted in removing the furniture and implements, which was saved. The house, which was gutted, was not insured, but the furniture was.

Derby Mercury 13 June 1888
CRICH STAND STRUCK BY LIGHTNING
SEVERAL BOYS INJURED
A peculiar accident happened to some boys at Crich on Saturday afternoon. About three o’clock a number of lads were playing cricket near Crich Stand when a thunderstorm broke over the district, and seven of the lads took shelter in the Stand. Almost immediately they had got inside the elevator tower there was a flash of lightning. The electric fluid struck the Stand, and passed down the inside to the outlet at the bottom. All the lads were more or less injured, one of them, named Arthur TOMLINSON, remained for a long time in a state of unconsciousness. The others were shaken and very alarmed, but not so much injured. They are going on favourably. The west side of the tower was struck and a piece of stone was knocked off. There are distinct traces of the effects of the lightning down the inside of the noted landmark, and on the second step from the bottom piece of the stone is displaced. The names of the other boys are Robert BARBER, Thomas HOLMES (rather severely hurt), John HOLMES, James HOLMES, James Noah WILKINSON, and Robert BERRESFORD.

Derbyshire Times 11 August 1888
CRICH
Thomas HARRISON, aged 43, of Crich Carr, a pensioner, died suddenly at Crich on Tuesday, owing to the breaking of the blood vessel.

Derby Mercury 29 August 1888
WHATSTANDWELL
SUDDEN DEATH
Mr Thomas DAVIS, the landlord of the Bull’s Head, Whatstandwell, died rather suddenly from a stroke on Friday last. He had kept the inn for the last 25 years, and was much respected in the village.
THE NATIONAL SCHOOL
Mrs HAWKES, in resigning the charge of the above school, has addressed the following letter to the Rev W. ACRAMAN: – “Crich Carr, August 18, 1888; Reverend Sir – I regret to say that I must resign the charge of the Crich Carr National School on 25 December next, as I find I shall require a few months freedom for the purpose of recruiting my health. I remain yours faithfully, Frances HAWKES. Mrs HAWKES open the above school exactly 4 years ago under very unfavourable circumstances, having only two infants to commence with. There are now about 80 children attending.

Long Eaton Advertiser 29 September 1888
A DERBYSHIRE PARISH CLERK’S EXPERIENCE
A contemporary publishes the following: – During the present months Mr John WETTON has completed his 30th year of office as clerk and sexton to the parish church, Crich. His experiences have been of an extra ordinary character. On one occasion the bellringers at the church struck work, and on another clergyman of the parish mysteriously disappeared. Some years ago WETTON had neglected to replace the grates of the heating apparatus, and as the clergyman was proceeding to the pulpit he was suddenly transferred to a lower sphere. The old sexton has prepared the graves for 1770 persons. Of these there were three over100 years of age – one 100, one 102 and one 103 years old: 12 from 90 to 100, 205 from 77 to 90, and 150 from 70 to 77 years old, or 379 over “three score years and ten.” During the same period there have been 890 children baptised and 766 persons married.

Derby Mercury 28 November 1888
WHATSTANDWELL
On Monday night and inquest was held at the Wheat Sheaf Inn, Whatstandwell, before Mr T.W. COXON (deputy coroner), touching the death of Fred ALLSOP, aged five, son of John ALLSOP, a labourer of Crich Carr. Superintendent McDONALD, of Belper, was present. From the evidence it appeared that about four o’clock on Saturday afternoon the deceased, with several other boys, was playing near a joiner’s shop, occupied by Jervis OSBERTON, at Crich Carr. A lad named Francis WATTS, aged ten years, was swinging on a chair which was attached to a cart wrathe or shelving. The wrathe was reared against the building. WATTS causing the heavy piece of timber to oscillate it fell forward, striking the deceased on the head, and blood at once flowed from the lad’s ears, nose, and mouth. He was carried into the nearest house, but died in a short time. Dr DUNN was quickly in attendance, but his services were of no avail, as concussion of the brain had supervened. A verdict of “accidental death” was returned, and the jury suggested that OSBERTON should not leave such implements in the position in which the wrathe was left.
[Note: A wrathe was usually a wooden bar with a row of closely set wooden pegs used in weaving and variously called a ravel, raivel, rake or wrathe]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 14 December 1888
DERBYSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
Two members of the Crich Club, SHIPLEY and HOLMES, were suspended to the end of the present season, and it was decided to write to Crich to ask them to explain the conduct of their players &c, in the recent Minor Cup Tie.

Derbyshire Times 29 December 1888
MARRIAGES
October 17, at Little Bay, Sydney, New South Wales, Mary, youngest daughter of the late Michael JESSOP, solicitor, of Crich.

1889 newspapers

Adverts for bicycles were now appearing; also adverts continued for Crich lime, Crich spar and turkeys from Dimple Poultry Farm, Crich.

Derbyshire Times 12 January 1889
DEATHS
January 4, 1889, George, the beloved husband of Mary BUNTING, and the only surviving son of the late Robert and Elizabeth BUNTING, late of Crich, was interred at St John’s Church, Newbold, January 9.

Derbyshire Times 19 January 1889
CRICH
On Thursday several accidents occurred at Mr STATHAM’s sawmills, Robin Hood. Mr WARMBY who has lately left the mills, was walking on the premises, when he accidentally fell into a hole, and unfortunately broke a rib and fractured his skull. The same day a youth named Stendall KNIGHTON narrowly escaped being killed. Mr STATHAM, proprietor of the mills, and Mr HEAPY, one of his workmen, were thrown from the trap by the horse taking fright. Mr HEAPY’s collar bone was broken, and he was removed to Derby Infirmary. Mr STATHAM escaped with a severe shaking. Several slight accidents have lately occurred at the same mills.

Derbyshire Courier 26 January 1889
CRICH
A few days ago an accident occurred near the Cross, Crich, a man breaking his leg. Several people were contemplating sending for a doctor, fortunately the leg was a wooden one. The man lent against the wall whilst another leg was fetched.

Derby Mercury 13 February 1889
CRICH
On Saturday week a very large quantity of stone fell in the Cliff quarry belonging to the Clay Cross Company. The men who were working near were obliged to hurry away. The stone continue to fall for a considerable time, and several of the men left work. On Thursday last a further fall occurred early in the morning, and on Saturday last stone was seen falling. These landslips are so frequently happening that the men have to be constantly on the alert as their lives are in jeopardy every hour.

Derbyshire Courier 16 March 1889
DERBYSHIRE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION
Application was received for the reinstatement of W. HOLMES, of Crich, who was three months since suspended for the rest of the season, for ungentlemanly conduct in the field. The application was granted.

Derby Mercury 10 April 1889
John MARTIN and Thomas COWLISHAW, quarrymen, Crich, were charged with creating an affray on the highway at Crich, on the 17th ult. by fighting. They quarrelled about a young woman, and it terminated in blows, MARTIN using a belt. Sergeant STANLEY appeared on the scene when they decamped. They were bound over to keep the peace for six months in their own reconnaissances, and to pay 8s 9d costs each.

Derbyshire Times 4 May 1889
For sale, 51in bicycle, the (Royal), ballbearings. Price £3. George BROWN, Boot and Shoe Warehouse, Crich.
[See newspaper advert for the Royal bicycle below: ]

Advert for the Royal bicycle 1889

The Singer Safety bicycle was introduced in 1887]

Derby Daily Telegraph 12 July 1889
John Albert LEE, Crich, was summoned before leaving the employ of John HANCOCK, at Crich, on 1 July. Defendant left without notice, and loss of £2 was sustained. LEE said he had the option of going to a better place, when he could get one. Ordered to pay £2 12s 6d, inclusive of costs, or 14 days.

Derbyshire Courier 23 July 1889
Scarletina has become an epidemic the district“juriadicted” by the Belper Authority. The National and British Schools at Crich, and the school at Crich Carr, have been ordered to be closed for a period, in consequence of the outbreak. Stringent measures ought to be taken to prevent the spread of the disease, and this can only be accomplished by isolating the cases.

Derbyshire Times 11 September 1889
ATTEMPT TO FRUSTRATE A WEDDING
On Monday morning and amusing scene was witnessed in Belper. By the first train arriving from the north a young couple came into the town to be married. The intended bride, whose name was BERRESFORD, and who came from Crich, was accompanied by her step-father and several friends. They were vainly endeavouring to frustrate the marriage for several causes, the most potent being that she was only eighteen years of age. At the railway station the step-father refused to allow his step-daughter to accompany her intended spouse, and attempted to carry her away. However, threats of a summons from the young man had the desired effect. The usual notice had been given to the registrar, and no objection taken. The father, finding he was not legally responsible for his step-daughter, telegraphed for the mother. She arrived at the office of Mr PYM whilst the ceremony was proceeding. It was then too late to take objection, as more than twenty-one days had expired. After repeated entreaties not to leave home and after the mother had implored the bride to say “No” the marriage was concluded at the request of both parties most concerned and the certificate of the superintendent given. Had the mother given notice of objection on Sunday, the wedding could not have been solemnised, as the bride was under age.

Derby Mercury 2 October 1889
Recently a farmer named German SIMS, of Wheatcroft, near Crich, was going home when a young horse, which was in the shafts, took fright and ran away. In attempting to stop the animal SIMS was struck in the ribs by one of the shafts and knocked down. One of the wheels rolled over his body, breaking a leg, fracturing several ribs, and causing internal injuries. Medical aid was called in, but no hope of recovery was entertained. The deceased died from the effects during Tuesday. An inquest was held on Wednesday, and a verdict of “Accidental death” returned.

Derbyshire Times 19 October 1889
… all creditors and others having any claims or demands upon or against the estate of German SIMS, late of Wheatcroft, in the parish of Crich, farmer, deceased, died on the 23rd day of September 1889, and who will was proved in the District Registry on the eighth day of October 1889 by Anthony SIMS and John SIMS the executors …

Derby Daily Telegraph 1 November 1889
FRITCHLEY
On Tuesday a temperance meeting was held in the Congregational Chapel. Mr Thomas CONNELL occupied the chair, and addressed the meeting on Temperance, from a medical point of view. Mr E. KIRK, of Crich, also delivered an address. A capital programme was rendered by the members of the Crich Temperance Society, the following taking part – Misses CURZON, DUNKLEY, FROST, MASON, DAWES, COWLISHAW, and E.J. WILKINSON, and Masters G. LEAFE and S, DAWES. Seven pledges were taken at the close of the meeting. Arrangements were made for establishing a Temperance Society at Fritchley, to be affiliated with the Crich Temperance Society.

Derbyshire Courier 5 November 1889
Adam KNEEBONE, stone dresser, of Crich, was charged with deserting his wife and two children on 8 October. Mr PYM said that on 8 October defendant’s wife and children were admitted to the Union and were still chargeable and since then he had not maintained his wife and children, having gone away. Sent to prison for three months with hard labour.

Derby Daily Telegraph
Derbyshire Times 9 November 1889
OPENING OF A READING ROOM AT CRICH
[a long article followed about the opening of the new reading room; it referred to 3 previous reading rooms in Crich] .

Derby Mercury 4 December 1889
DEATHS
On November 25, at The Mount, Crich, Elizabeth, widow of the late A.H. SAXTON, Esq, late of Worthing, Sussex. Friends will kindly accept this the only intimation.

Derby Daily Telegraph 23 December 1889
We understand that HOLMES, of Crich, who created such a favourable impression in the recent practice match on the Derby County Ground, today (Saturday) appended his signature to a professional form on behalf of Derby County. HOLMES, who has been identified with the Matlock F.C. Has an excellent reputation as a player, and his inclusion in the team will certainly strengthen the left wing.
[Further information on Samuel HOLMES – view]