Elsworth & Knapwell Chronicle

Elsworth and Knapwell Chronicle 1851-1855

Links to years: 1851 1852 1853 1854 1855

1851

Elsworth 11th January Christmas Benevolence.

On Saturday, December 21st, upwards of ten tons of coals were given to the poor of the above parish, by the wealthier inhabitants of the village. - On Christmas day about £3 worth of bread was also given to the poor. - On Thursday week an excellent supper was given to the Church singers and ringers, by the worthy rector, the Rev. P.S. Bagge.

Elsworth 11th January Incendiary Fire.

On Saturday night last, a fife broke out in a corn stack belonging to Mr. Thomas Webbe, of this village. It was doubtless the work of some incendiary.

Knapwell 22nd February

An inquest was holden at the Three Horse Shoes, in this village, on Wednesday, before Mr. Marshall on view of the body of John Johnson. The deceased, who was 78 years of age, was taken ill on Sunday, and complained of a pain in the left breast. He took three quarters of an ounce of salts, and slept well that night. On Monday he was worse, and on Tuesday, about one o'clock, he fell and never spoke more, but expired in about 1/2 hour.Verdict, "Died suddenly by the visitation of God".

Elsworth 16th August School Treat.

On Thursday, August 7th, the children belonging to the National School, at Elsworth, were bountifully regaled with plumcake and milk, by the Rev. P.S. Bagge; after which they repaired to a close adjoining the rectory, where they spent the evening in various amusements, ending with the National Anthem.

1852

Elsworth 24th January Distribution of bread.

Gratuity. - On Wednesday last, the poor of this village were supplied with 1 lb. of bread to each person, by some benevolent inhabitant.

Elsworth 24th January Distribution of coal.

On Friday the 13th, upwards of 13 tons of coals were sold to the poor at 4d. per cwt. The coals were purchased by subscriptions from some of the wealthier inhabitants.

Elsworth 24th January Accident to boy.

On the evening of the same day, a boy named John Goodyear, whilst cutting chaff, inadvertently placed his left hand upon the machine to rest, and in so doing put his fingers between the wheels, which crushed one of them very much. He was taken to Addenbrooke's Hospital. It is feared that amputation will be necessary.

Elsworth 20th March Distribution of coal.

The poor have again been benefited by the kindness of one of their richer neighbours. On Thursday last, Mr. W. Balduck distributed several tons of coals amongst the poor widows of this parish.

Elsworth 13th November Emigration to America.

On Monday last, Lewis Hard, brickmaker, and his family, left this village, and set sail on Thursday for America. This is the fifth family, amounting in all to nearly 40 persons that have emigrated from this village within the last two years.

1853

Elsworth 15th January Choir Treat.

On Thursday, the 6th instant, the Church singers and ringers and their friends were kindly invited by the Rev. P.S. Bagge, the rector, to the School-room, where a sumptuous supper awaited them, to which they (about 45 in number) did ample justice. After supper, "The Queen" and other toasts were proposed and responded to, among which was that of Mr. William Cotterrell, churchwarden, who on returning thanks took that opportunity of expressing, not only on his own part but on that of the inhabitants of the village generally, great regret at the rev. gentleman leaving the village, and presented to him a testimonial of esteem from his parishioners, consisting of a silver inkstand and silver handled paper knife. The worthy rector respectfully accepted the same and tendered his thanks in the most affectionate terms. The remainder of the evening was spent in the most convivial manner, being enlivened by numerous songs, duets, glees, etc., by the members of the choir.

Elsworth 22nd January Child burnt.

On Wednesday, the 28th December, as a child named Mary Ann Bowers was playing, having been injudiciously left alone in the house of its friends, its clothes caught fire, and it died on Sunday last, from the effects of the accident.

Elsworth 22nd January Child caught stealing.

Mr. S. Witherow, jun., baker, of Elsworth, having on two or three occasions had loaves stolen from his cart, by prowling urchins, on Tuesday last took the precaution of concealing a man in the cart under some sacks. He had not been in this position long, before he felt a small hand thrust into the cart, which began making itself free among the loaves: the man thereupon made himself visible to the astonished eyes of the would-be thief, who, however, escaped with no worse misfortune than a good thrashing for his pains.

Elsworth 22nd January Charity.

During the past week, thirty tons of coals have been presented by the parishioners to the poor of the above place.

Elsworth 2nd April Parish Meeting.

On Thursday, March 24th, a meeting was held at the Three Horse Shoes Inn, for the purpose of nominating parish officers, when the following gentlemen were chosen to serve for the ensuing year: Mr. Wm. Cotterell, Guardian; Mr. Thomas Witherow and Mr. Benjamin Kirby, Overseers; Mr. James Parsons and Mr. George Kimpton, Surveyors.

Elsworth 2nd April Sheep slaughtered.

On Saturday night last, some villain or villains slaughtered a sheep in a field leading from Elsworth to Conington, the property of Mr. James Parsons, of the former place, taking the carcase, and leaving the skin and entrails behind. The police are on the alert; and we hope by their strenuous exertions the guilty party will be brought to justice.

Elsworth 9th April Appointment of Church Wardens.

On Thursday, March 31st, a meeting was held at the Rectory-house, the Rev. J. R. Dobson, Rector, in the chair, when Messrs. William and Edward Cotterell were elected Churchwardens for the ensuing year. A rate of 3d. in the pound was proposed by the rector, which was unanimously carried by the meeting. Mr. John Pain Smith is also appointed constable for the ensuing year.

Elsworth 30th April National Schools.

On Sunday last, a sermon was preached in the parish church, by the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector, in aid of the National Schools, in accordance with the Queen's letter. The rev. gentleman took his text from Proverbs, 19th chapter, part of the 2nd verse: "That the soul be without knowledge, it is not good." After a suitable and eloquent discourse, the sum of £1. 7s. 6d. was collected at the doors.

Elsworth 7th May Baptism in brook.

On Sunday last four persons were baptised by immersion in the village brook, by their minister Mr. Hanks, of Dry Drayton, assisted by Mr. Smith, of Waterbeach, who preached a sermon on the occasion. Upwards of 400 people were present, and we are glad to say they all behaved themselves in a praiseworthy manner.

Elsworth 11th June Confirmation.

On Thursday last, the Lord Bishop of Ely held a confirmation in the parish church, when upwards of one hundred persons from the above and neighbouring villages received the holy rite.

Elsworth 11th June School Anniversary.

On Wednesday last, two sermons were preached in the Baptist Chapel, in aid of the Day and Sunday Schools in connection with that place, that in the afternoon by Mr. Gardner, of Chorley, and in the evening, by Mr. Foster, of Blackburn. Collections were made after each service. A public tea was provided in the school-room for visitors and friends, which was well attended.

Elsworth 18th June Post Office.

We are glad to say that, after much trouble and anxiety amongst the principal inhabitants of this place, a post-office is established in connection with St. Ives: therefore all letters should be directed Elsworth, near St. Ives, instead of near Caxton, as beforetime, which will save a day's delay. Our worthy townsman, Mr. R. Papworth, tailor, has been appointed postmaster.

Elsworth 25th June Church Choir Treat.

On Tuesday evening last the members of the church choir were regaled with an excellent supper, provided in the National School-room by the worthy rector, Rev. J. R. Dobson. After the cloth was drawn, several anthems and glees, together with the the national anthem, were sung. We hope they will go on practising and persevering in so good and praiseworthy a work. After a little convivial amusement, the party broke up, greatly pleased with their evening's entertainment

Elsworth 16th July Flood.

In consequence of the heavy rain on Thursday morning, this village was completely inundated with water. Trees and faggots were swimming about in all directions; and it was with great difficulty that some of the stock was saved from drowning. Many dwelling houses were from two to three feet deep in water. Many acres of grass and clover will be almost worthless.

Elsworth 13th August National School Treat.

On Friday, the 5th inst., the children belonging to the National day and Sunday schools, were regaled with tea, plum cake, and fruit, on the lawn, near the rectory gardens, provided by the worthy rector, Rev. J. R. Dobson and his lady, who favoured them with their presence. After tea, the children with their teachers were accompanied to a field near the rectory, where they pleased themselves with several games, such as cricket and the like, up to a seasonable hour, after which they were called together, and under the management of Mr. Ducker, schoolmaster, sung several pretty little songs: after which they broke up, greatly pleased with their afternoon's entertainment.

Elsworth 13th August Singular case.

On Saturday last, a horse, the property of Mr. J. Smith, farmer of the above place, died, and upon opening the poor animal, to ascertain the cause of death, a stone weighing 2½ lbs. was taken out of its bladder. The animal worked up to the day before its death, when it showed great signs of pain. Mr. Smith has the stone in his possession.

Elsworth 27th August Bad spelling.

The Schoolmaster Abroad. - In a field leading from Elsworth to Knapwell may be seen the following notice, exhibited on a board: "Persons, Trespeseng further; on Thes: Feilds. Will be Prosecuted; Acorden, To, Law."

Elsworth 17th September The Harvest.

We are glad to say the farmers in this neighbourhood are progressing very favourably with the harvest Should the weather continue fine a few days, the greater part of the white corn will be gathered in good condition.

Elsworth 11th November School Treat

On Wednesday last, the Children belonging to the Baptist day and Sunday schools were regaled with plum cake and tea, provided in the schoolroom by their minister, Mr. J. Neale, who is about leaving the sphere of his labours. After being pleased with the magic lantern, a short address was given by the above- named gentleman: the party then broke up, greatly pleased with their evening's entertainment.

Elsworth 19th November Robbery from Butcher's Cart.

On Saturday night last, as Mr. William Silk, butcher, of Elsworth, was passing through that village, he had an occasion to stop to transact some business, when some villain or villains abstracted from his cart a round of beef. It appears Mr. Silk did not discover his loss until he arrived home. The police were quickly set to work and we hope by their exertions the guilty party will be brought to justice.

Elsworth 17th December Narrow Escape.

On Saturday last, an accident which might have proved fatal happened to Mr. George Murdan of Elsworth, Carpenter, who, it appears had been to Cambridge with a timber-gig for some timber, and upon his arriving near home, one of the horses suddenly snatched forward, which precipitated him to the ground, the wheel of the vehicle literally tearing the hair from his head, and otherwise much bruising him. We are glad to say the poor man is progressing very favourably.

Elsworth 24th December Emigration.

On Tuesday last, two families comprising often individuals, left the land of their birth for the distant shores of Australia, in hopes of obtaining a better livelihood. We would have them, however, consider that it is not all gold that glitters; neither do we think the news is all true that come from thence; we therefore wish them good luck and prosperity in their undertaking.

1854

Elsworth 7th January Church Choir Treat.

On Thursday evening, Dec. 20th, the members of the church choir were regaled with a substantial supper, comprising the good old English fare of roast beef and plum pudding, provided in the National school room by the worthy rector, the Rev. J. R. Dobson, after which the rev. gentleman made a speech at some length upon the subject of church-music. The health of the Queen was then drank, and the national anthem sung. The health of the rector and his Lady was next given, and after singing several songs and glees, the party broke up highly pleased with their evening's entertainment.

Elsworth 14th January Gift to Church choir.

On Monday evening last, our much respected rector presented to the choir a purse, containing 5 guineas, to be divided amongst them as they shall think best, hoping they will persevere in and practice such anthems and tunes as are most adapted to the service of the church.

Elsworth 14th January Distribution of Coals.

During the late inclement weather the gentlemen of this village have distributed upwards of 30 tons of coal to their poor neighbours, some of the largest families received as much as 6 cwts., which must be a great boon to them considering the high price of provisions. We hope they will be thankful to their benefactors for supplying them with such a necessary part of their comfort and happiness.

Elsworth 21st January Inquest on child.

On Wednesday last, at Elsworth, an inquest was held by Mr. Barlow, on view of the body of Emma Watson, a child aged eleven months, who on the previous Thursday night had been taken with violent vomiting and purging, which lasted until Sunday morning, when it died, no medicalman having been called in. A post-mortem examination was made by Mr. Wright, surgeon, of Caxton. Verdict - Died from inflammation of the stomach and bowels.

Elsworth 25th February Windmill burnt down.

On Saturday morning last, about half-past one o'clock, the windmill belonging to Mr. Philip Papworth, of the above place, was discovered to be on fire. Alarm was immediately given, and several persons were quickly on the spot. Great praise is due to those present, who willingly set to work. About 21½ quarters of wheat were saved, but 15 sacks of meal ready for dressing, and several quarters of corn were consumed. It appears the miller left the mill the preceding evening, about six o'clock, apparently safe. The fire is supposed to have been caused by friction during the heavy storm the afternoon previous. We are glad to say Mr. Papworth is insured.

Elsworth 25th March Stock Club.

It is proposed that a meeting of the inhabitants of Elsworth and the neighbourhood be held at the George and Dragon, on the second Monday in April, to take into consideration the practicability of establishing a stock club. Rules and regulations for the management of the same will be proposed at the time of the meeting.

Elsworth 1st April Parish meeting.

On Thursday last, a meeting was held at the Rectory House, the Rev. J. R. Dobson, Rector, in the Chair, for the purpose of examining the Overseers' and Surveyors' accounts for the past year, which were passed. The following are the gentlemen chosed to serve for the ensuing year, viz: Mr. William Cotterell, Guardian; Mr. Edmund Cotterell and Mr. George Kimpton, Overseers; Mr. James Parsons and Mr. George Kimpton, Surveyors; and Mr. William Robinson, Pindar.

Knapwell 1st April Parish officers elected.

On Friday, March 24th, a meeting was held at the Three Horse Shoes public House for the purpose of electing parish officers for the years ensuing. Mr. Simon Francis was chosen Guardian; Messrs William and Samuel Whithead, Overseers; Mr. John Martin, Surveyor.

Elsworth 15th April Birth Day treat

On Tuesday last, being the birthday of Mrs Col. Sandwitt, 36 individuals, including all the poor widows in the village, were invited to an excellent dinner, provided for them at the Fox and Hounds by Mr. Papworth, landlord. After dinner the health of the giver of the feast was drank, the recipients of her bounty wishing her many returns of the day. The old dames then retired home, highly pleased with their afternoon's entertainment.

Elsworth 15th April Church Rates.

At the Caxton Petty Sessions, Mr. Naylor, the barrister, appeared for Mr. Lansbury, of this place, who had been summoned for non-payment of a church- rate. A technical objection taken by Mr. Naylor was held to be fatal and the case was dismissed.

Elsworth 29th April Day of Humiliation.

Wednesday last, being a day set apart for humiliation and prayer, both Churchmen and Dissenters observed it as such. The Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector, preached two powerful and impressive sermons in the parish Church that in the morning from Joel 2, v.15-17; and that in the afternoon from Jer. 23, v.23-24. Collections were made after the services towards the support of the soldiers wives and families, which amounted to £5.5s. 4½d.

Elsworth 6th May School anniversary.

On Sunday last, three sermons were preached in the Baptist chapel, by Mr. Foster, of Blackburn, in aid of the day and Sunday schools in connection with the above place. Collections were made after the afternoon and evening services which were good.

Elsworth 6th May Day of Humiliation.

We ought not to have omitted to state last week that all the publicans in the above village shut up their houses on the day of humiliation.

Elsworth 17th June Propogation of the Gospel in Foreign Parts.

On Sunday last, a sermon was preached in the parish church, in accordance with the Queen's letter, by the Rev. J. Tillard, rector of Conington, from St Matthew, 9th Chap., 36th, 37th, and 38th verses. After a suitable and eloquent discourse, the sum of £1.11s. 3d. was collected in aid of the above society.

Elsworth 24th June Baptist treat.

On Thursday last, the children and teachers belonging to the Baptist Day and Sunday schools were regaled with tea and cake, provided for them in the school room. After which the children pleased themselves with several innocent games up to a reasonable hour, when they were called together to hear a short address from Mr. Gardner, Baptist minister of Chorley. The party then broke up, highly pleased with their entertainment.

Elsworth 15th July Church Choir treat

On Tuesday evening last, the members of the Church choir were invited to an excellent supper, provided for them in the National School-room by the worthy rector, the Rev. J. R. Dobson; after which, the singers sung several songs and glees, together with the National Anthem. The Rev. gentleman, addressed them briefly upon the subject of Church music. The party then broke up, much pleased with their evening's entertainment.

Elsworth 5th August School Treat

On Friday se'nnight, the children belonging to the above schools, had their usual treat of tea and plum-cake, provided for them by the Rev. J. R. Dobson, the rector, on the lawn, near the Rectory Gardens. After which the children pleased themselves with several innocent games, and then were called together to partake of fruit, of which there was a plentiful supply. After singing several school songs, together with the National Anthem, the party broke up highly pleased with their afternoon's treat.

Elsworth 19th August The harvest.

The harvest in this neighbourhood has become general: reapers may be seen in all directions. The corn crops appear to be most exuberant Many acres of peas have been carted in good condition; but we are sorry to say the potatoes, on which the poor man has principally to depend during the winter season, are becoming very bad.

Elsworth 30th September Accident.

On Thursday last, an accident happened to a poor man named James Merry, who was gathering plums. By some means the ladder turned, precipitating him to the ground. The poor fellow was conveyed home, when it was found he had sustained severe injury of the thigh: it is hoped, however, no bones are broken.

Knapwell 7th October Harvest Thanksgiving.

Sunday last, being the day appointed as general thanksgiving to Almighty God for the late abundant harvest, the parishioners of the above village observed it as such. The greater part of them might be seen wending their way to their Parish Church, where an excellent discourse was delivered by the Rev. Burkitt from Psalm III v.15. "He hath given meat unto them that fear him: he shall ever be mindful of his covenant".

Elsworth 21st October Fatal Accident.

On Wednesday se'nnight, an accident, which terminated fatally, happened to Mr. William Bleet, landlord of the Plough Inn, in the above place. It appears the deceased was loading haulm, when he accidentally fell to the ground. The poor man was conveyed home; and Mr. Girling, surgeon, of St. Ives, was immediately sent for, when it was found he had sustained severe injury of the spine. He continued in the greatest agony until Sunday evening, when death put an end to his sufferings.

Elsworth 28th October Death from Cholera.

We are sorry to say that one case of this fearful disease has happened to a poor woman named Parnwell, in the above place. She was seized on Tuesday evening with violent sickness and purging, accompanied with cramp. Restoratives were given her, and medical aid immediately sent for, but without any avail, as the poor creature breathed her last on Wednesday morning.

Elsworth 9th December Dissolving views.

On Monday evening last, a grand series of dissolving views was exhibited in the National Schoolroom, by Mr. Horne, consisting principally of Scripture history, the whole concluding with a view of the battle of the Alma and a chromatrope. There was a pretty good attendance, and we believe Mr. Horne gave general satisfaction.

Elsworth 30th December Christmas charity.

We have great pleasure in announcing that the poor widows in the above village received a good piece of mutton each for their Christmas dinner, from our worthy rector, the Rev. J. R. Dobson: £3 was also given away to the poor in bread at the parish church on Christmas day. We cannot attribute too much praise to the above gentleman for his untiring zeal in visiting the sick and afflicted of his flock. Several poor persons have received mutton and ale from the Rev. J. Purchas, of the Manor House. We hope many more will be raised up to come and do likewise.

Elsworth 30th December Patriotic fund.

This parish contributed the sum of £9. l0s. 6d., through the exertions of the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector, and Mr. William Cotterell, churchwarden, in aid of the Patriotic Fund.

Knapwell 30th December Patriotic Fund Collection

We have much pleasure in announcing that the total amount to this fund, including the Subscription of the National School Children and the Commercial School of Children, amounts to £33. 12s. 0d.

The inhabitants of this parish contributed the sum of £6. 2s. 11d. in aid of the above fund, which was paid over by Mr. W. Whitehead, church warden, of the above place.

1855

Elsworth 6th January Church Choir Treat.

On Thursday evening se'nnight, the members of the Church choir with their friends were invited to an excellent supper, provided for them in the National School-room, by the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector. After the cloth was drawn, the rev. gentleman made a speech at some length upon the subject of the present War, giving his hearers to understand that although the Russians were defeated in the late struggle, we must look to higher powers than man's for coming events. The health of the Queen was drank, and the National Anthem sung. During the evening several healths were drank, especially those of the rector and his Lady. After singing several songs and duets, the party broke up, highly pleased with their evening's entertainment.

Elsworth 20th January Church Choir Treat.

The members of the above choir received, the other evening, from the worthy rector, the Rev. J. R. Dobson, the sum of £6 as an acknowledgement of their past services, hoping they will persevere in so good an object as Church music.

Elsworth 27th January Coals distributed.

During the late inclement weather, several tons of coal have been distributed amongst the poorer inhabitants of the above place, which, considering the high price of provisions, must be a great boon to them at this season of the year. We hope they will be thankful to their benefactors for supplying them with such a necessary article for their comfort and happiness.

Elsworth 3rd February Accident

On Wednesday last, an accident of a serious nature happened to a poor man named William Day, who was at work with a threshing machine for Mr. John Kirby, farmer, of the above place. He was removing some straw which was entwined round some of the wheels, and his hand was caught and crushed in a fearful mariner. He was conveyed as quickly as possible to the surgery of Messrs. Wright and Brook, of Caxton, when it was found that amputation of the thumb and two fingers was necessary. The poor fellow is as well as can be expected.

Elsworth 17th February Longevity.

There are at present living in the above village, five persons, whose united ages amount to 419 years, viz. Samuel Parnwell, 85; Wm. Parnwell, 83; John Parker, 85; Ann Holben, 84; Mary Underwood, 82. We think the above is a proof of the healthiness of the place: the population is rather more than 900.

Elsworth l0th March Diorama.

On Wednesday evening last, Mr. W. H. Willstead, late principal assistant to Dr. Shaw, of the London Polytechnic, exhibited a grand series of dissolving views in the National School-room, comprising illustrations from Scripture, orrery, landscapes, transformations, and a chromatrope. The attendance was good, particularly of youth, as the children belonging to the school and the Church chorister boys were admitted at the expense of the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector. The whole was conducted in first-rate style, and we wish Mr. Willstead every success.

Elsworth 17th March Narrow escape.

On Tuesday last, an accident, which might have proved of serious consequence, happened to Mr. John Smith, foreman to the Messrs. Hammond and Roman, farmers, of the above place. It appears he was feeding a threshing machine; and upon his endeavouring to get out of the feeding-box, his foot slipped and he came in contact with the beaters which were revolving at slow rate; luckily the horses were stopped, and the poor man received no other injury than a severe sprain of the ankle and leg.

Elsworth 24th March Fast Day.

Wednesday last, being a day set apart by Royal authority for humiliation and prayer, and imploring the divine blessing upon our armies and fleets, two full services were performed in the Parish Church by the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector, who preached two impressive sermons, that in the morning from Haggai 1st chap. 7th verse, and that in the afternoon from St. Matthew 11th chap. 21st, 22nd verses. Great praise is due to the trades people and publicans of the above place, as all business was suspended until after divine service in the afternoon.

Elsworth 31st March Robbery of potatoes.

On Sunday night last, some villain or villains entered an outhouse belonging to the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector of the above place, and stole therefrom a quantity of potatoes. As several people have of late lost articles from their premises, the police have been set to work, and we hope that by their exertions the guilty party will be brought to justice.

Elsworth 31st March Parish meeting.

On Friday se'nnight, a meeting was held in the rectory house, the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector, in the chair, for the purpose of looking over the parish books for the past year, and choosing officers for the ensuing year, when Mr. William Cotterill was re-elected guardian; Mr. Edward Lansbury and Mr. George Kimpton, overseers; Mr. James Parsons and Mr. George Kimpton, surveyors; and Mr. John Pain Smith, constable.

Elsworth 7th April The Police.

We have received an account of what is called "a disgraceful affair" which occurred about ten o'clock last Tuesday night Our correspondent charges Pooley, the policeman, with brutal conduct towards Mr. George Newman and his wife, whom he took into custody, as we understand, on a charge of stealing a pickaxe; but as the case will probably come before the authorities in a formal shape, when both sides will be heard, we must decline to give an ex parte statement.

Elsworth 7th April News for Fox-Hunters.

On Thursday se'nnight, as Messrs. Osborne, and Cotterill, were coursing in a field near Elsworth wood, the keeper, Mr. John Woods, discovered in a heap of straw six young cubs, just beginning to see. Luckily, as the above were all sporting gentlemen, the pretty little creatures remained unhurt: should they escape until next season, as we hope they may, the lovers of foxhunting will no doubt be able to give a good account of them.

Elsworth 5th May Benefit Club Feast

On Tuesday last, the members of the George and Dragon Benefit Club commemorated the anniversary of their club feast, when upwards of fifty members sat down to an excellent dinner, provided by host Witherow in his usual good style; after which they proceeded to the bowling green. After playing several games they retired to the club room, and spent a merry evening.

Elsworth 12th May Accident to Boy.

On Thursday last, an accident happened to a boy named Benjamin Holben, who was driving a horse-powered oat crusher for Mr. Cotterell, farmer, of the above place. The man who was attending the mill was obliged to leave for a minute or two, and cautioned the boy not to meddle; but the foolish urchin left his horses, and put his hand up the spout, by which means his middle finger was caught and nearly ground off. The poor boy with his father went immediately to the surgery of Messrs. Wright and Brook, of Caxton, when his finger was strapped up: but it is thought very probable that amputation will be necessary.

Elsworth 2nd June Accident.

On the morning of the 24th ult, a boy named John Eaves met with an accident by falling from a ladder in a yard. In the evening, he was conveyed to Addenbrooke's Hospital, when it was discovered upon examination that he had fractured his thigh. He is doing well.

Elsworth 2nd June Liberality.

On Tuesday afternoon last, all the poor widows, with several others, were invited to partake of plum-cake and tea, at the Fox and Hounds, provided by Mrs Papworth, the lady of our worthy rector, being donor. After the old ladies had done ample justice to the above, they returned to their respective homes, highly pleased with their entertainment.

Elsworth 9th June The Feast

This week we commemorated the anniversary of our village feast The weather being fine, a very animated appearance presented itself, for the lads and lasses were dressed in their best from top to toe. There was a good show of gingerbread stalls where children and those of riper years might get rid of their ready cash. Upon the whole it was a pretty good feast; and we are happy to say everything passed off very quietly.

Elsworth 14th July School Treat

On Thursday afternoon last, the children belonging to the Baptist day and Sunday-schools were regaled with plum-cake and tea, in the schoolroom adjoining the chapel: after which their minister, Mr. Geo. Skeels, of St. Ives, addressed them briefly upon the subject of education. The children were then allowed to play until a reasonable hour, when they broke up, much pleased with their entertainment.

Elsworth 28th July Church Choir Treat.

On Friday evening se'nnight, the members of the above choir, with their friends, amounting to upwards of thirty, sat down to an excellent supper, provided for them in the National School-room by their worthy rector, the Rev. J. R. Dobson.

Elsworth 18th August National School Treat

On Friday se'nnight, the children of the National Day and Sunday Schools received their annual treat of plum-cake and tea, provided on the lawn near the Rectory gardens, by the Rev. J. R. Dobson, rector; after which a plentiful supply of fruit was given them. They then amused themselves with several games, such as cricket, jumping over poles, leap-frog, etc., until the shades of evening came on, when they retired to their homes, highly pleased with their afternoon's entertainment,

Elsworth 8th September Singular Circumstance.

A circumstance of a singular nature occurred at the above place the other day. It appears that a gold eardrop had been lost some weeks, -and, strange to say, was found in the following manner:-A fowl was trying to fly over a well that was on the premises, and by chance fell in: the poor bird was soon got out, but being nearly drowned an end was put to its existence, and upon opening the same, the lost prize was discovered in the gizzard.

Elsworth 22nd September The Harvest

We have great pleasure in stating that, owing to the late fine weather the harvest in this neighbourhood is progressing very favourably, as the greater portion of the white corn will be carted in good condition this week. The crops in general are excellent. The potato disease has again made its appearance amongst us, but we hope not to any alarming extent.

Knapwell 29th September Accident to Thomas Lindsay, junior.

On Monday evening last, an accident happened to Thomas Lindsay, jun. who, it appears was loading beans for Mr. Dawson, of the New Inn Farm, belonging to the above parish. The cart was upset and the poor man precipitated to the ground; he was as quickly as possible (cum celeriter) conveyed home, and Mr. Brook, surgeon, of Caxton sent for, when it was found he had received considerable injury of the leg and thigh. It is hoped, however, that the man is going on favourably.

Elsworth 6th October Church Missionary Society.

On Sunday next, a sermon will be preached, D.V., by the Rev. J. Mee, M.A., of Cambridge, in aid of the above society. Divine service will commence at three o'clock in the afternoon. A collection will be made at the close of the service.

Elsworth 6th October Church Rate.

On Thursday afternoon last, a meeting was held in the Rectory house, the Rev. J. R. Dobson in the chair, for the purpose of making a rate for the necessary reparation of the parish Church, when Mr. Cotterell, Churchwarden, proposed that a rate of one penny in the pound be granted, which was opposed by Mr. Lansbury. Upon a show of hands there appeared, for the rate eight, against it seven. The dissenters demanded a poll, which will take place in the National Schoolroom from one til four o'clock on Wednesday next.

Elsworth 13th October Church Rate Contest.

On Wednesday last, the above contest came off, from 1 o'clock to 4, as stated last week. At the hour appointed, both Churchmen and Dissenters might be seen wending their way to the National Schoolroom to give their votes. At the close of the poll, there appeared for the rate, 54; against it, 44, thus leaving a majority of 10 in favour of the Church.

Elsworth 3rd November Sheep Worrying.

On Monday night last, or early on Tuesday morning, thirty-five sheep, the property of Mr. John Kirby, of the Common Farm, were worried in a dreadful mariner, insomuch that twenty-two out of the number were obliged to be killed, and it is feared several more will have to share the same fate. Luckily, the dog is taken and confined, as the shepherd found him lying beside his prey. It would be well if many of those dogs that are seen strolling about almost every village were made away with, as scarcely ever, if any mischief comes by them, any owner is to be found.

Elsworth 17th November Child burnt.

Caution to Mothers -On Saturday evening last, a child named Kidman was dreadfully burnt, in consequence of its mother being absent. She had undressed it ready for bed, and foolishly left it by the side of the fire until she had put the hens to roost, when upon her return the poor child was enveloped in flames. The little sufferer's life is despaired of.

Elsworth 22nd December Inquest on child.

An inquest was held before Mr. Barlow on the 20th inst., at Elsworth, on view of the body of William Hull, aged five years. From the evidence it appeared that the deceased had been attempting to dry his night shirt in the temporary absence of his mother, and that the front caught fire, and he was burned about the thighs and abdomen so much as eventually to cause his death. The mother heard his screams, and running to him, endeavoured to put out the flames with her hands, which were very much burned in the attempt. Verdict -Accidentally killed by burning.

Elsworth 29th December Christmas Benevolence.

The principal farmers in the above village gave to each of their poor labourers a good piece of beef or mutton for their Christmas dinners, paying them likewise for the day. We hope this good feeling will be carried out by the masters towards their men in every parish.

Elsworth 29th December Seasonable Benevolence.

On Monday last, all the poor widows of the above parish received from the hands of our worthy rector, the Rev. J. R. Dobson, 2 lbs. of mutton each for their Christmas dinners; and on Christmas day, 19 stone of bread was distributed among the poor at the parish Church: also several poor families have been supplied with soup by the Rev. J. Purchas, of the Manor House, during the late inclement weather. We hope they will be thankful to their benefactors for bestowing upon them those things, which otherwise their scanty means would not have procured.