A History of Preston in Hertfordshire

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PRESTON. PENNY BANKS.—Arrangements having been made for starting a penny bank at Preston a meeting was held at the School-room, on Saturday evening, to explain the way in which it would be worked and to point out the benefits which such an institution would confer. There was a fair attendance of the villagers. The Chairman (Mr. H. Brand, M.P.), said, in opening the proceedings, that he thought every man ought to have the means of investment brought home to him, however small his investment might be. Benefit and Providence Societies were very good things but they had one weakness: they did not give a man the means of creating a fund which would live after him for the benefit of those he left behind. The best thing to have would be a good office savings bank in every village, but the Government said that would cost too much money; the next best thing was a penny bank in connection with the post office savings bank. He thought they would find that the bank about to be established would be a good thing and that in time they would use it largely. They would have as good security as if their money was in the Bank of England, and the business of the bank would be conducted with secrecy, so that none but those engaged in the management of it affairs could tell how much anyone had deposited.—Mr. Bartley, of the National Penny Bank, London, explained the principles on which penny banks were established and their system of management. The bank would be opened, he said, on Saturday the 31st of July, and would be open every Saturday evening afterwards. A penny would be the lowest sum taken from a depositor and all sums handed in would have to be in even pence. The trustees of the bank would have account at the post office savings bank; the money would be perfectly safe; if at any time they wanted to draw any of their money out there would be no difficulty whatever in so doing; and the business of the bank would be carried on with the most perfect secrecy. Going on to make a few suggestions as to thrift, Mr. Bartley pointed out how much better it was for a man to have some money at the savings bank available in case of necessity than to be obliged to go to the pawn-broker and pay a high rate of interest for the money he borrowed. Speaking of finery and dress, in which he observed a good deal could be saved, he gave some excellent advice to young men and young women; and in reference to drink he showed how a man who did not want to become a teetotaller could save some of the money now spent in beer. In the use of tobacco there was also room for economy. He believed that half the quarrels of matrimonial and domestic life were caused by want of thrift. The importance of beginning early to make provision for old age was next dwelt upon, Mr. Bartley explaining that if a young man of 20 put by a shilling a week regularly on Government security he could have a pension of £1 a week at the age of 60.—Mr. Seebohm, of Hitchin, spoke of the success which had attended the establishing of a penny bank in Back-street in that town, there being now £1,500 deposited in it. That was, he said, a proof that if the means of saving were brought to people’s doors they were ready to avail themselves of the opportunity of making provision for their future wants. He went on to say that he was buying provisions for his own family cheaper than the working man could, because he bought larger quantities; and he explained how by the exercise of a little forethought the working classes could buy goods more economically than now, and so make their wages go farther. He referred to the number of working men’s clubs that had broken up; and, contrasting clubs with savings banks, observed that if a young man made up his mind to put by a certain sum weekly in the latter he might have a good sum saved at the age of 60. If a man had £100 to his credit in the savings bank at that age his relations would be sure to treat him well in his declining years and there would be no fear of his having to go to the Workhouse. If they got the people of England into the habit of saving they would not be making them misers, but thoughtful men who loved their wives and children.—The Rev. G. Litting, in moving a vote of thanks to Mr. Bartley and Mr. Seebohm for their addresses, urged the audience to think carefully over what they had heard.—The motion was seconded by Mr. T. H. Darton and carried.—Mr. Bartley and Mr. Seebohm having acknowledged the compliment, a vote of thanks to the Chairman brought the meeting to a close. 24 July 1880

Each Friday Findmypast lists the additions to its library of newspapers. There appears to be no rhyme or reason as to what is selected - I am reminded of Richard Gordon’s comment on how medical examination papers were marked, the ‘examiner’ throwing them down flights of stairs and grades being ascribed depending on which step they landed. Recently, additions to the Hertfordshire Express were announced for the years 1874 -1876; 1880 and 1907. These are of interest because this paper was produced in Hitchin and featured Preston news reports in detail. What is recorded below are the events in Preston during some of these years. There is little of surprise here, but the news was no doubt discussed in the bars of The Red Lion and The Chequers and beside the newly sunk well at Preston Green.

WANTED, a SITUATION as PAGE. Aged 15. Apply to JAMES BUSHELL, Preston, near Hitchin. 2 May 1875

HITCHIN CATTLE MARKET Sale of livestock Sale of 2 Calf and 2 Oxen Mr Pigott 18 May 1785. Sale of 15 Fat sheep and 7 Porkers by Mr Pigott 25 January 1876. Also, Mr G J Pigott: 2 Calves; 3 Bullocks and 3 Pigs. Mr S Marriott: 3 Bullocks 26 May 1876

CARRYING A GUN WITHOUT A LICENSE. Thomas Marriott, of Preston, was charged with carrying a gun without a license on land at Tatmore Hills, on the 3rd of June last. The defendant admitted that he had carried the gun, but said he did not wilfully break the law, as he did not know that his license had expired. Mr Barham, an officer of the excise, said that on the 3rd of June he saw defendant carrying a gun in a lane at Tatmore Hills and in some fields. Witness asked him if he had got a license to carry a gun. Defendant stated at first that he had, but afterwards admitted that he had not one. Defendant said he hoped that (witness) would not be severe upon him. Witness told him that he had no wish to be hard upon him this time if he would at once go and take out a licence. Witness left it for about three weeks, and at the end of that time he saw defendant in the market and asked him if he had taken out a licence. Defendant said, “Oh, I shall not take one.” The Chairman asked the defendant whether he used the gun during those three weeks. Defendant: No, Sir. Mr Barham said he told defendant this second time that he should have to report the matter to the Commissioners. The Chairman said he thought the Excise ought to be satisfied if defendant took out a £3 licence at once. He had no doubt that the offence was committed through ignorance. It was a very hard case indeed. The Bench must fine defendant £2 10s, as the literal law had been broken, and they had no power to inflict a smaller penalty, but they recommended the Commissioners to reduce the penalty on the ground that the defendant had only inadvertently broken the law. 7 August 1875

PRESTON. CHAPEL ANNIVERSARY.—On Thursday last the anniversary of Preston chapel was held. In the afternoon, by the kind permission of Mr Delmé Radcliffe, a service was held in the picturesque dell in Preston Wood, made famous by the ministrations of the celebrated John Bunyan having been carried on there in the old times of persecution. At three o’clock nearly a hundred persons had gathered in this sequestered spot, and suitable Gospel addresses were given by the Revs. J. Aldis and C. Hewitt. At five o’clock tea was prepared in the chapel at Preston, but the company was so numerous that it had to be divided into two parties. At the evening meeting the chapel was full to overflowing, and the proceedings were of the most joyful and hearty character. Addresses were given by the Rev. J. Aldis, the Rev. C. Hewitt, and Messrs. Russell, Morgan, Odell, Burls, and others. The chapel was tastefully decorated, and the collections at the dell and after the evening meeting were good. 18 Sept 1875

During the outbreak of measles last winter, frequent meetings of the Committee and District Visitors were held. It was found impossible to keep an exact record of all the cases that received help, but the amount distributed at the discretion of the Visitors, with the approval of the Committee, amounted to about £25. It is believed the warm clothing supplied to children in this instance, was the means of saving many lives. A grant of £2 10s was also made to the hamlet of Preston for a like purpose. 2 February 1876

HORSE ACCIDENT.—Some alarm was occasioned on Sunday night last by the galloping of a horse through Hitchin, dragging the shafts and wheels of some kind of vehicle. On inquiring it was found that the conveyance which the horse was drawing had been overturned at Whitwell and that the horse had run through Preston, Gosmore, and Hitchin. It was finally stopped on the Offley road. The occupants of the vehicle to which the horse was attached were thrown out and much shaken, but were otherwise uninjured. 12 February 1876

POACHING. Thomas and Chas. Fairey and Thomas Harris were charged with poaching on the 17th ult. P.C. Alderton said that about three o’clock in the afternoon on the 17th ult., he and Inspector Reynolds were on the road from Preston to Kings Walden. He saw Thos. Fairey come from land belonging to Mr Whitbread Roberts into the road and join the other defendants. Inspector Reynolds searched them and found three snares. Thos. and Charles Fairey, having been convicted before, were fined £1 each, and Thos. Harris was fined 5s. 4 March 1876

DARTON.—On the 2nd inst., at Preston, Hitchin, Herts., William Henry Darton, Esq., aged 33 years. 4 March 1876

SPRING FLOWERS. Sir,—The season of spring flowers is now approaching and I am reminded of an occurrence last year at this time which I am sure your readers will agree ought not to be repeated. The occurrence was this: one spring afternoon, a man with a donkey and cart, a boy, a hoe, and a basket, entered Wain Wood and proceeded to a part which was covered with primroses. The man used his hoe as though he worked for a wager, the boy followed with the basket, and in a short hour or two the cart was filled with primrose roots, and that part of the wood was quite bare of them. What followed is imaginary, but we know that London is near at hand and will swallow anything and everything that can be turned into money. No doubt the primroses were taken into some backyard, packed into hampers, and next morning were for sale in Covent Garden Market. Was not some gentleman’s garden stripped of all its rose-buds last summer by some rogue for the same object? If the public and the police are on the watch such robbery may be stopped. DJP 11 March 1876 Sir,—In answer to your correspondent who subscribes himself, “D. J. P.,” I wish, in the first place to ask him in what way does it concern him by the man, boy, hoe, and donkey cart going to Wain Wood and getting primrose roots; also, in the second place, what was his object in watching (as he evidently owns he did) as to the time they were engaged in getting them? What he styles imaginary is entirely so; no doubts are entertained by the undersigned as to what was done with them. They were not taken into any backyard, nor packed in hampers, and as to Covent Garden, it is erroneous. The primroses were not taken from Wain Wood without my knowledge; they also were obtained with the consent of the late Esquire whose property it is, therefore I ask your correspondent in what way does it appear a robbery? May I ask him what the public are to do with it; is it public property in the same way as common rights? I may say that I have been there all my life and my forefathers, who date back nearly 200 years, and there has been nothing of that sort occurred as making a market out of primroses or anything else, therefore I wish your correspondent to answer my questions or withdraw what I consider an imputation on my character by allowing things to be taken from there, to make money by it. 25 March 1876 SAMUEL WESTWOOD.

DEATHS. WESTWOOD - on the 25th inst at Wain Wood, Preston Emma, wife of Samuel aged 68 years. 29 March 1876 SCOTT - on the 18th inst Mary, widow of James aged 70 years. 24 June 1876 PALMER - on the 6th inst at Preston, Mary, Widow of Thomas aged 91 years . 16 September 1876

Mr Stephen Marriott, a farmer, residing at Preston, near Hitchin, also appeared in answer to two summonses. In this case it appeared that Mr Marriott, jun., on the 6th March, brought to the station two loads of straw which he subsequently declared as 90 trusses each, but which, according to the evidence of the Company’s officials, was found to consist of 99 trusses in the one case and 96 in the other. Fined £5 22 April 1876

GARDENER.—WANTED, a WORKING GARDENER—Greenhouse, Kitchen and Flower Garden.—Apply (personally) between 3 and 6 p.m.; or by letter, addressed to W. H. DARTON, Esq., The Cottage, Preston, Hitchin, Herts 19 February 1876

SNOW STORM.—It is not within the memory of “the oldest inhabitant” that such a fall of snow took place in Hitchin, in the month of April, as that which fell on the Thursday before Good Friday. Early on that day the sky became overcast with leaden clouds, and from noon to midnight there was a continuous fall of snow accompanied by a driving wind. By nightfall the streets in the town had become well nigh impassable from the depth of the snow which was from 8 to 10 inches deep in the streets, while the bitter wind drifted it into every possible corner. Many were the mishaps which occurred during the night, but none, fortunately, resulted fatally. In Hitchin, one old woman returning from her work and half-blinded by the sleet, mistook the turning and fell into the river, fracturing her leg in two places. In the surrounding country roads the snow drifted in some places to a depth of 10 or 12 feet, quite stopping communication with many of the villages. The Rev. E. Abraham, who was returning from Pegsdon, was obliged to leave his chaise on the Pirton Road, and it had to be dug out during the next day. A baker returning from Offley was obliged to abandon his cart on the Offley Road, and a fly had also to be left. Sixty sheep were buried ten feet deep on the Wilbury Hills, and had to be dug out. There was no indication of their whereabouts on the surface of the snow, and they had to be found by probing at different places; singularly, none were injured by their imprisonment. Toomey’s were also buried in the snow at Preston. Waggonettes and carriages returning from various places were brought to a standstill and ladies and gentlemen who were their occupants had to fight their way with no little difficulty to their respective homes. The appearance of the gardens and trees on the early morning of Good Friday was very picturesque, but sad havoc was done to plants and fruit trees, which were broken down in all directions. The snow melted away on Good Friday almost as fast as it fell on the previous day, but locomotion was much impeded and congregations at the churches and chapels were in most cases much attenuated. 22 April 1876

THE COTTAGE AT TEMPLE DINSLEY, NEAR HITCHIN, HERTS. IMPORTANT SALE of Superior and High-class Modern and Antique FURNITURE, comprising the appointments of 8 Bed-rooms, consisting of Arabian, Iron and other Bedsteads, Bedding, Mahogany Chests of Drawers, Marble top Wash-stands, Dressing Tables and Glasses; very superior Rosewood Drawing-room Suite, covered in crimson rep; handsome Loo and Card Tables, Occasional Tables, Crimson Repp Curtains, Chimney Glasses, rich toned Cottage Pianoforte, in rosewood case, Wilkie; Two Musical Boxes; a gentleman’s Mahogany Writing Office Table, fitted with drawers; Two elegant Groups of Stuffed Australian Birds, in glass shades; Mahogany Dining-room Suite, including a large Dining Table with extra leaves, Sideboard, Wine-cooler, 12 Chairs in Morocco, Easy Chair, and Side Table; large Turkey and Brussels Carpets in excellent condition; 700 Vols. of rare Ancient and Modern BOOKS; a large collection of ORIENTAL CHINA and very OLD ENGRAVINGS; a few valuable Old Paintings; the Study and Hall Furniture, including handsome Bookcases, Tables and Chairs, a very fine Old Chime Clock in upright case; 2 Breechloaders, Double-barrel Guns, an ancient Iron Deed Chest, a Quantity of Glass, Dinner, Dessert and Breakfast Services; the appointments of Kitchen and Domestic Offices; a modern Brougham, with plate glass circular front, by Garstin; a nearly new Mail Phaeton, by Maythorn; Dog Cart, Spring Cart, and 2 Farm Carts; a very handsome Dark Brown Mare; 2 Sets of Harness, 2 Saddles and Bridles, Stable Utensils, 3 Stumps of Hay, a Brown Horse, a Bay Cob, Cow, Pigs; a large quantity of Greenhouse Plants, Lawn Mowing Machine, Garden Tools, an Iron Lathe, Washing Machine, and numerous effects; At the latter end of April or beginning of May,1876. By direction of the Executors of the late WM. HENRY DARTON, Esq.

Samuel Reeves, a lad between sixteen and seventeen years of age, residing at Preston, was charged with stealing a pocket knife and 4s. 6d. on the 2nd instant, from a barn situated at Charlton, near Hitchin. Inspector Young explained to the Bench that both the complainant and defendant were employed at the farm of Mr. Davis, at Offley Holes, on the day the robbery was alleged to have been committed. The men had been having a harvest supper at the house of the foreman and it was during the following night while the complainant was sleeping in a barn that his knife and money were stolen. Alfred Saunders, a boy apparently about fourteen years of age, said on the 2nd September last he was at work for Mr. Davis, on the Offley Holes farm. His home was at Charlton. In the evening of the day mentioned he went to a harvest feast at Jenkins’ house. Jenkins was foreman for Mr. Davis. After supper he went to sleep in the barn, and on going there he had a knife and 4s. 6d. in his pocket. At ten o’clock his sister came for him. He then felt in his pocket, and found both money and knife gone. Jenkins, upon being told, searched the barn. The Chairman: Are you quite sure that you had the money when you went into the barn? Complainant: Yes, sir. Witness continued: He did not see the knife for some days afterwards, when the policeman showed it to him. The knife was worth 10d. He never got his money back again. Witness knew the prisoner, who worked for Mr. Davis, and had supper with him at the lodge. Did you see the defendant in the barn? Complainant: No, sir. By Mr. Barker: Had been largely drinking during the day. Went to Jenkins’ at about a quarter-past six till half-past nine. Was taken into the barn by Jenkins and Peters. He was so tipsy that he did not know where he was or who took him into the barn; but was told Peters and Jenkins did. He missed his knife and money when his sister came for him—that was half-past ten after he was put into the barn—about ten o’clock at night. Had no occasion to use his knife or any of his money from seven o’clock till his sister came. Did not know when his sister came except by being told. He could not go with his sister when she came as he could not stand. He remained in the barn till three o’clock the next morning, when he woke and searched for his money and knife. He remained in the barn till he went to work, and told one of the men of his loss. Emily Saunders, sister to the complainant, said that on the night of September 2nd she went to Offley Holes Farm to fetch her brother, who had been to a supper there. She stood at Jenkins’ gate at about ten o’clock and while there saw defendant go towards the barn where she was told her brother was. By Mr. Barker: The light was light. Did not see him go into the barn nor did she speak to him. He was ten or twelve yards off, might have been twenty. She went to her brother and tried to make him sensible. She stopped about an hour afterwards drinking with the other men. The Chairman: How far from the barn was the defendant when you saw him? Witness: About fifteen or sixteen yards. By Mr. Barker: Mr Jenkins told her to go and ask her brother for his money. When she asked him he said he had not got it. She tried to make him sensible but could hardly do so. She felt in his pockets. By Mr. Oakley: Was anyone else in the barn? Witness: Only his brother, sir, who was sleeping with him. George Jenkins, the foreman of the farm, said the boy was drunk and he carried and laid him on the straw in the barn. The other brother went to the barn himself. George Palmer, labourer, of Preston, said he was on Preston Green on Sunday, the 3rd September, and saw defendant and some others, who were talking about changing knives down at Offley Holes. Defendant said he had changed with a deaf and dumb fellow. He pulled a knife out and said, “I’ve got a new one,” adding he had given 10d. for it. Witness afterwards bought it for that sum. On Thursday last P.C. Day went to witness and asked for the knife, and he gave it up to him. P.C. Day said: On Monday, the 4th September, he received information that the boy had been robbed of a knife and some money. On the following Thursday he went to George Palmer and obtained from him the knife, produced, which was that taken from the boy. He then went to the defendant and told him he had come about the knife and money. He said, “Oh, I was just thinking about that. I’ll go and see the woman about it.” Witness answered that defendant need not do that, as witness had got it and added “You sold it to George Palmer last Sunday morning.” Defendant said “I never sold him any knife.” Witness advised him to tell no more lies and, having cautioned him, took him into custody. Defendant said the knife he sold he had never so long. Afterwards he said “I found that knife last Sunday morning outside the hovel.” Witness then brought defendant to Hitchin police station. On the same evening he showed the knife to the boy, who identified it. By Mr. Barker: The barn where the boy was is 20 yards from the lodge; but the farm, where witness understood the howl was, was 600 yards off. Mr. Barker said that both the defendant and his parents desired to have the case settled by the Bench, and urged that the defendant had hitherto borne a good character; that he was the son of very respectable parents. He was afraid he must admit that when defendant heard this charge he made some contradictory statement. There was really very little evidence against the defendant. The complainant was not at all sensible and probably dropped the knife where he alleged it was found. The defendant had already been severely punished by being kept in custody for five days. Under all the circumstances he hoped the Bench would dismiss the case. The magistrates retired to consider the case, and on returning into court the Chairman said they had been at some trouble in the case in consequence of the drunkenness of the boy. The knife, however, had been traced to the prisoner, and the Bench felt bound to convict. The sentence would be ten days’ imprisonment, with hard labour. 16 September 1876

TO LET.—A COTTAGE with large Garden attached; situated at Preston Hill, near Hitchin.—Apply to Mr. F. ARMSTRONG, Preston Hill Farm, Hitchin, Herts. 13 May 1876

DRUNKENNESS. George Smith and George Hill, whose wives appeared, were charged with drunkenness at Preston, on the 25th ult. The defendants pleaded guilty and were each fined 13s including costs. Robert Cook, of Hitchin, who has absconded, was charged with being drunk. P.C. Tripp proved the service of the summons and a warrant was issued for the apprehension of defendant. 8 July 1876 PERMITTING DRUNKENNESS. — Leet, landlord of the Red Lion, Preston, was charged with permitting drunkenness in his house, on the 25th ult. As defendant did not appear the case was adjourned till next week in order to allow him to do so. 8 July 1876

TO BE LET.—The Old Licensed PUBLIC HOUSE known as the Red Lion, situate in the parish of Preston, and Six Acres of good PASTURE LAND thereunto belonging. Early possession can be had.—A first-rate opening for a dealing man.—Apply, XXX, Post Office, Baldock. 19 August 1876

STEALING HALF-A-SOVEREIGN. George Hawkins, a labourer, living at Preston, was charged with stealing half-a-sovereign from the person of Charles Watson, a fellow labourer. Charles Watson said that on the 14th last, he and others, having been at work for Mr Marriott, received their wages and went to the Chequers public-house to divide them. The defendant was there. Witness received half-sovereign and wrapped it up in his pocket-handkerchief. He afterwards went with defendant towards the farm. Defendant left witness for a time, and when he came from the farm he met defendant again and they both went back to the Chequers. He then missed his money. He told the company of his loss and said that he suspected defendant. The men said they would search him and did so, and the half-sovereign fell from his belt. He said he had found it. By the Chairman: It was tied up in a corner of the handkerchief. Defendant: Did I take it from your pocket? Complainant: I can’t say. P.C. Day said that on Thursday, the 14th September, he apprehended George Hawkins on the charge of stealing half-a-sovereign. He said he had picked it up at the back of the house. Witness searched, and found in the orchard the pocket-handkerchief which he produced. Defendant was asked if he would plead guilty and have the case settled by the bench or committed to Hertford to be tried there. Defendant wished the case to be settled here, but declined to admit the charge. The case then proceeded and Henry Jeeves was called. He said he was at the Chequers when Watson and Hawkins came in together. He heard what Watson complained of. Watson said he had been robbed of a half-sovereign. Witness said, “If you judge any man in the room the best way will be to have him searched.” He said “I’ll have this man searched as he next to me.” That was Hawkins. Then Hawkins got up and pulled his coat, shoes and stockings off; also untied his belt and the half- sovereign dropped out of it. Witness picked up the half sovereign and gave it to Watson. Defendant then said he picked it up behind the house.The defendant was again informed that if he admitted his guilt he could receive sentence at once, but that if he denied his guilt the case must be tried at Hertford. The defendant then said he would have it settled at once, and pleaded guilty. The complainant’s handkerchief was hanging out of his pocket and he pulled it out and took the money. They had all been drinking and were a little the worse for it. Prisoner was committed for one month with hard labour. 23 September 1876

SHOOTING PHEASANTS OUT OF SEASON. Mr Stephen Marriott, farmer, of Preston, Hitchin, was charged with shooting pheasants out of season. Charles Watson, farm labourer, said that on the 1st inst. he was at work for Mr Marriott in one of his fields. He saw his master and a friend come into the field. Two pheasants got up and Mr Marriott fired and killed both. He picked them up and gave them to his friend. Afterwards another pheasant got up and he shot that as well. Mr Marriott said he quite admitted that he shot the pheasants. When he got into the field eight birds got up and what turned out to be a pheasant he thought was a French partridge. It was done momentarily and not at all intentionally. The Chairman said he could hardly understand how an old sportsman could be mistaken. Mr Marriott said the pheasants were very small. The magistrates retired to consider the case, and on returning the Chairman said the Bench believed Mr Marriott’s statement that it was a mistake, and they, therefore, dismissed the charge. 23 September 1876

THE RED LION INN, situate at Preston, near the Market Town of Hitchin, TO LET, with about Six Acres of Grass Land and Garden. Good outbuildings, &c., suited for a cattle dealer. Free for spirits.—Apply at STEEDS’ PALE ALE BREWERY, Baldock, Herts. 23 September 1876

Extracted from a lecture at Salem Chapel on 16 November Christianity Among the Jews: The rev. gentleman stated that a collection would be taken at the close of the lecture, and after making a fair deduction for the expenses of the same the balance would be devoted to the fund for the Bunyan Chapel they hoped shortly to erect at Preston. 25 November 1876

A GENERAL SERVANT WANTED, to assist generally in a gentleman’s house where several other servants are kept. She must be strong, healthy, and active.—Apply at TEMPLE DINSLEY, near Hitchin. 16 December 1876

TRANSFER The Red Lion, Preston from James Butterfield to Jonathan Richardson on 4 November 1876

1880

FAIRS Preston 1880 First Wednesday in May; Wednesday before October 29th: Sheep .

DRUNKENNESS. Henry Jenkins, labourer, Preston, was charged with being drunk while in charge of a donkey on the highway on the 13th of December. Evidence was given by Police-constable Martin, who said he saw the defendant leaving Hitchin in charge of a donkey, which he was ill-using. He was hanging by the cart and could hardly walk. The defendant, who admitted that he had “had too much drink,” and said he was sorry for what had occurred, was fined 5s. 10 January 1880 Peek v. Young. Mr. Barker, solicitor, Hitchin, appeared for the plaintiff, a harness-maker living at Ickleford. Mr. Barker said that when the order was made, in August last, for the payment of £5 16s., the defendant was a master shoemaker and publican at Preston, Herts., but he had since had the licence of the public-house transferred to his father-in-law. Mr. Young said he husband was too ill to attend. An order for the payment of £2 in twenty-one days, or the usual alternative, was made. 17 January 1880

TEMPLE DINSLEY, PRESTON, HERTS., MR. GEORGE JACKSON Has been favoured with instructions from the Exors. of the late JOHN WEEKS, Esq., TO SELL BY AUCTION, On the Premises, on WEDNESDAY, February 25, 1880, and following day, THE VALUABLE CONTENTS OF THE MANSION, comprising the superior MODERN HOUSEHOLD FURNITURE, China, Glass and Earthenware, Books, OIL PAINTINGS, PRINTS and ENGRAVINGS, Bronze and other Ornaments, Plated Articles, 2 excellent BILLIARD TABLES, Double and Single- barrel Guns, CELLAR of WINES and SPIRITS, Kitchen and Culinary Articles; 3 CARRIAGE HORSES, 2 well-built LANDAUS, 4-wheel Basket Carriage, Spring Cart, Van, Harness, Poultry and sundry Effects.

PRESTON. On the 18th inst. the parents of the scholars connected with Bunyan Chapel Sunday School had their annual tea in the chapel. After tea an interesting meeting was held, the Rev. F. G. Marchant presiding. Addresses were given by the Chairman, Messrs. G. Halsey, Daintree, F. Foster, Rennie, and G. W. Russell. Mr. Baghaw read the report, which showed there were 77 scholars and 11 teachers in the school. 27 March 1880

DEATHS BROWN.—On the 13th inst., at Preston, St. Ippolyts, Miriam, wife of John Brown, aged 56 years. 24 March 1880 PETERS.—On the 22nd inst., at Preston, Hitchin, Ann Matilda, daughter of Samuel Peters, aged 1 year. 24 March 1880 Ezra, the dearly-loved child of George and Mary Pigott, of the Temple Farm, Preston, aged 3 years. 27 November 1880

PRESTON. A temperance entertainment, consisting of singing and addresses, was given in Bunyan Chapel, Preston, on Thursday evening, the 24th ult., by friends and members of Salem Chapel (Hitchin) Band of Hope. Suitable addresses were delivered by Messrs. J. Morgan, J. Rennie, A. H. Jelly, and H. W. W. Russell. There was a fair audience, and an enjoyable evening was spent. 3 April 1880

On Monday evening a meeting was held in the Bunyan Chapel in aid of the Baptist Missionary Society. The Rev. F. G. Marchant, of Hitchin, presided, and there was a good attendance, the pretty little chapel being nearly filled. Suitable addresses were given by the Chairman, Mr. R. Johnson, Mr. W. Foster, Mr. F. Foster, Mr. Daintree and Mr. Morgan. The Sunday School boxes produced about 6l., and the collection at the close of the meeting amounted £1 15s., being in excess of previous years. 13 March 1880

ALLEGED ASSAULTS. Alfred Brown and Benjamin Brown, farmers, Ippolyts, were charged with assaulting Robert Isaacs, ironfounder, of the same parish, on the 19th inst. There was also a cross-charge of assault against Mr. Isaacs. Mr. Pearce (from the office of Mr. Times, solicitor, Hitchin) appeared for Mr. Isaacs, and Mr. Barker, solicitor, Hitchin, for the Browns. The case in which Mr. Isaacs was complainant was heard first. He said that on the night of Saturday, the 19th inst., he was on his way home from Preston when the two Browns, who were in a cart, overtook him. One of them said to the other as they came up “Old Isaacs has been about the barley again.” The witness said “I freely forgive you; but you must keep your things out in future.” Alfred Brown then said to Benjamin “Get out and knock him down,” and Benjamin did so. They both then got out of the cart, and kicked him on the face several times, rendering him insensible. When he recovered his senses he saw several persons round him. A young man named Fairy took him home. Cross-examined: He had been to two public houses at Preston and drank at both of them. He drank a pint of beer at one public house and two glasses of gin at the other. He had had some drink before going to Preston. The defendants, in the conversation which occurred on their coming up, said they were willing to pay for the damage done. He did not use any abusive language before Benjamin Brown got out of the cart, nor did he strike the first blow. The only persons present when the row commenced were himself and the two defendants. He did not take his coat off. Re-examined: He was perfectly sober when assaulted. George Swain, dealer, Preston, said that about a quarter to ten o’clock on Saturday night, while in the Chequers inn there he heard a noise outside. He went out to see what was the matter, and saw Benj. Brown putting on his coat. Alfred Brown and Isaacs were there also. Benjamin asked Isaacs if he had had enough of it, and he said he had as they had been knocking and kicking him about. Isaacs also said to Alfred: “I never knew a Brown, but what was a rogue; if you are not a rogue yourself you send your things out roguing.” Cross-examined: Isaacs had his coat on. By the Bench: Blood was pouring down Isaacs’ face; he was not the worse for drink. The cross-case was next heard; and Benjamin Brown, one of the complainants, said he had a flock of sheep and Mr. Isaacs had a field of barley in the parish of St. Ippolyts. He was coming home in a cart from Preston about half-past nine on a Saturday evening, his brother Alfred being with him. They overtook Isaacs near the Chequers Inn, and pulled up to speak to him about their sheep going into his barley. Witness said to him “Mr. Isaacs our sheep have been in your barley.” He said “Yes they have,” and witness rejoined “What damage they have done we will pay for.” He answered “Pay has nothing to do with it,” called them rogues and thieves and used very bad language. Witness said “If you abuse me so I’ll spank your head.” He rejoined “Get out and do it,” and continued his abuse. When he was getting out of the cart, and before he got to the ground, Isaacs struck him. Both Isaacs and he took their coats off and fought and had several rounds. He did nothing to Isaacs but strike him with his fists. His brother Alfred did not touch Isaacs. Cross-examined: He did not know what his brother got out of the cart for. Alfred Brown corroborated the evidence of his brother, and said he got out of the cart to give Isaacs his hat. The Bench dismissed both cases, saying it did not appear that Mr. Isaacs had not been in fault. 26 June 1880

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(Above) Yorkshire Penny Bank day in 1928 at Scotforth School. Note the signs and that the bank was in the school. (Below) Penny Bank day at a Wakefield school in 1905. These images illustrate how these Banks operated in practice.

(Notes re Penny Banks: The “Penny Bank” in the UK in the 1880s wasn’t a single national institution—it was a type of very small savings bank, usually run locally (often by churches, schools, charities, or philanthropic societies). A Penny Bank was designed to help working-class people—especially children—save tiny amounts of money regularly. The key idea was simple: You could deposit as little as one penny at a time Deposits were recorded in a small passbook or ledger. Once savings reached a certain amount (often a few shillings), the money might be transferred into a larger institution like the Post Office Savings Bank. They existed because in the late 19th century, most banks required larger minimum deposits. They were intimidating or inaccessible to poorer people. Penny Banks filled that gap. They were part of a wider Victorian push towards thrift, self-discipline and financial independence. Typical users included children learning to save, domestic servants and labourers and their families. They were hyper-local, ultra-low-threshold savings schemes built to teach and enable saving when even a single penny was worth setting aside.)

SCHOOL FEAST.—By the kindness of Mr. H. R. Brand, M.P. (one of the managing committee), and Mrs. Brand, the children of the day school, 75 in number, had a treat at Temple Dinsley, on Saturday last. Most of the other members of the committee were present to lend their assistance on the occasion. The unpropitious state of the weather did not, in the present instance, mar the children’s enjoyment, inasmuch as not only the feast, but also the usual amusements, were able to be conducted in the spacious pavilion attached to the house. The slipperiness of the floor was productive of many tumbles in the races and other games, but this rather heightened than diminished the fun and merriment of all present. 14 August 1880

At the yearly Licensing Meeting a month ago the Magistrates were informed that the landlord of the Chequers inn, Preston, was in the habit of quarrelling with his wife and on his applying for a renewal of his licence the Bench decided to adjourn the matter for a month in order that the police might have an opportunity of seeing how the house was conducted during that time.—Mr. Andrews, solicitor, now applied on behalf of the landlord for a renewal of the licence; and Inspector Young said there had been no further quarrelling between the parties.—The licence was renewed. 25 September 1880

WANTED, a place as UNDER-GROOM, or to help in garden if needed.—Apply, WILLIAM JENKINS, Preston, near Hitchin. 23 October 1880

PRESTON. PENNY READINGS.—The first of a series of penny readings took place, by the kindness of Mr. W. R. Brand, M.P., in the large room at Temple Dinsley, on Wednesday evening. Readings were given by Mr. Brand, Mr. R. Shillitoe, and the Rev. G. Litting; and songs and duets by Mrs. Hugh Smyth, Miss Grounds, Mrs. G. H. Darton, and Master C. Baron. There was a large audience, who much enjoyed the amusement provided for them. 4 December 1880 (Note re: Penny Readings: A Penny Reading / Penny Entertainment was a cheap village entertainment: people paid one penny admission for readings, songs, recitations, lantern lectures, music, etc. These were common in schoolrooms, mechanics’ institutes, parish rooms and chapels. The overlap with Penny Banks is that the same village institutions often hosted both. The penny paid for entertainment was usually admission money, not a bank deposit. It might go toward expenses, school funds, church funds, institute funds, or charity.)

PENNY BANK.—As the outcome of the movement made to establish a Penny Bank in this hamlet, it is encouraging to announce that no less than 79 depositors, old and young, have already availed themselves of the opportunity afforded them to invest their savings. The Trustees are to be congratulated on the result in practical thrift likely to be brought about by their ungrudging sacrifice of time in the matter, and the people are to be congratulated on their determination to make what store they can against a rainy day. 14 August 1880