Even More Tales From The Tap Room: Belle Vue Hotel, St. John`s Street 1856

Thanks And Acknowledgements

My thanks go to Kent Libraries and Archives - Folkestone Library and also to the archive of the Folkestone Herald. For articles from the Folkestone Observer, my thanks go to the Kent Messenger Group. Southeastern Gazette articles are from UKPress Online, and Kentish Gazette articles are from the British Newspaper Archive. See links below.

Paul Skelton`s great site for research on pubs in Kent is also linked

Other sites which may be of interest are the Folkestone and District Local History Society, the Kent History Forum, Christine Warren`s fascinating site, Folkestone Then And Now, and Step Short, where I originally found the photo of the bomb-damaged former Langton`s Brewery, links also below.

Welcome

Welcome to Even More Tales From The Tap Room.

Core dates and information on licensees tenure are taken from Martin Easdown and Eamonn Rooney`s two fine books on the pubs of Folkestone, Tales From The Tap Room and More Tales From The Tap Room - unfortunately now out of print. Dates for the tenure of licensees are taken from the very limited editions called Bastions Of The Bar and More Bastions Of The Bar, which were given free to very early purchasers of the books.

Easiest navigation of the site is by clicking on the PAGE of the pub you are looking for and following the links to the different sub-pages. Using the LABELS is, I`m afraid, not at all user-friendly.

Thursday 4 January 2024

Belle Vue Hotel, St. John`s Street 1856 - 1925

Belle Vue Hotel, c1908. Credit Alan Taylor

Licensees

Spencer Hayward 1856 1857 Later New Inn

George Hills 1857 1858

Charles Griggs 1858 1877

George Piddock 1877 1878

Arthur Gaywood 1878 1879

Lawrence Cumming 1879 1880

George Glazier 1880 1881

Jane Glazier 1881 1881 (1881 Census)

Alfred Revell 1881 1883

Edward Laws 1883 1886

James Edwards 1886 1886

William Tite 1886 1887 Ex Shakespeare Hotel

Samuel Saunders 1887 1891

Alfred Adams 1891 1893 Later Princess Royal

Thomas Nolan 1893 1895

William Siggs 1895 1896

James Hobson 1896 1906 Later Rendezvous

Horace Warren 1906 1910

Frederick Taylor 1910 1925

Southeastern Gazette 19-9-1854

Annual Licensing Day

Monday: Before the Mayor, S. Mackie, W. Major, T. Golder, G. Kennicott, and T.Kingsriorth, Esqs.

Before renewing the licenses, the Mayor addressed the publicans, informing them that a new law was passed, explaining to them the particular features of the Act, and hoped they would adhere to it. The whole of the licenses were renewed, with the exception of the Radnor Inn, Oddfellow's Arms, and the Engine Inn. Applications for new licenses were made for the George, Gun, and Belle Vue Tavern; the first only was granted, on the ground that it was a new house in the room of one pulled down. The sign of the Fleur-de-lis was changed to the Martello Tavern.

Dover Chronicle 23-9-1854

Annual Licensing Day: Before the Mayor, S. Mackie, W. Major, T. Golder, G. Kennicott and T. Kingsnorth Esqs.

The whole of the licenses were renewed, with the exception of the Radnor Inn, Oddfellows Arms and Engine Inn. Applications for new licenses were made for the George, Gun and Belle Vue Tavern; the first only was granted on the ground that it was a new house in the room of one pulled down. The sign of the Fleur de Lis was changed to the Martello Tavern.

Southeastern Gazette 17-10-1854

Monday, October 9th: Before the Mayor, J. Kelcey and G. Kennicott, Esqs.

The adjourned meeting for the granting of licenses was held, when the licenses of the Engine Inn, Oddfellows Arms, and Radnor Inn, were renewed, Superintendent Steer being desired to pay particular attention to these houses.

Spencer Hayward, of Belle Vue Tavern, again appeared before the magistrates, and produced a memorial, signed by a number of respectable persons, seeking to have a license granted for his house, but the magistrates declined to alter their former decision.

Dover Telegraph 18-8-1855

Petty Sessions, Friday: Before James Kelcey and W. Major, Esqs.

Charles Wapsher and James Gorham, plasterers, were charged with highway robbery.

The prosecutor, Henry Anderson, a servant at Shorncliffe camp, said that on the night of the review by her Majesty, while returning home between 11 and 12 o clock, he was met in St. Peter’s Street by the prisoners (whom he knew by sight,) who asked him to stand a pot of beer, to which he consented, if the Belle Vue Tavern was open. On proceeding thither they found the house closed. The prisoners then requested him to go with them into the town, and on his refusing Wapsher tripped him up and fell on him. Witness called out for assistance, when Gorham caught him round the neck with one arm, and stopped his mouth with the other, while Wapsher rifled his pockets, taking a purse containing 18s. and a tobacco-box.

Remanded till Wednesday, when they were committed for trial at the Assizes.

Southeastern Gazette 21-8-1855

Local News

Friday: Before J. Kelcey and W. Maior, Esqs.

Charles Wapsher and James Gorham, plasterers, were charged with highway robbery.

The prosecutor, Henry Anderson, a servant at Shorncliffe camp, said that on the night of the review by her Majesty, while returning home between 10 and 11 o clock, he was met in St. Peter’s Street by the prisoners (whom he knew by sight,) who asked him to stand a pot of beer, to which he consented, if the Belle Vue Tavern was open. On proceeding thither they found the house closed. The prisoners then requested him to go with them into the town, and on his refusing Wapsher tripped him up and fell on him. Witness called out for assistance, when Gorham caught him round the neck with one arm, and stopped his mouth with the other, while Wapsher rifled his pockets, taking a purse containing 18s. and a tobacco-box.

The prisoners were committed, for trial at the assizes, but admitted to bail in £80 and 2 sureties in £40 each.

Note: Folkestone Chronicle give the Gun Tavern.

Dover Chronicle 25-8-1855

Petty Sessions, Friday: Before J. Kelcey and W. Major, Esqs.

Charles Wapsher and James Gorham, plasterers, were charged with highway robbery.

The prisoners were committed, for trial at the assizes, but admitted to bail in £80 and 2 sureties in £40 each.

Kentish Gazette 28-8-1855

Charles Wapsher and James Gorham, plasterers, were charged before the magistrates on the 17^th inst., with highway robbery. The prosecutor, Henry Anderson, a servant at Shorncliffe camp, said that on the night of the review by her Majesty, while returning home between ten and eleven o`clock he was met in St. Peter's-street by the prisoners (whom he knew by sight,) who asked him to stand a pot of beer, to which lie consented if the Belle Vue Tavern was open. On proceeding thither they found the house closed. The prisoners then requested him to go with them into the town, and on his refusing Wapsher tripped him up and fell on him. Witness called out for assistance, when Gorham caught him round the neck with one arm, and stopped his mouth with the other, while Wapsher rifled his pockets, taking a purse containing 18s. and a tobacco-box. The prisoners were committed for trial at the assizes, but admitted to bail in £80, and two sureties in £40 each.

Folkestone Chronicle 15-9-1855

Monday September 10^th :- Present S. Mackie Esq., Mayor, T. Golder Esq., W. Major Esq., G. Kennicott Esq., and W. Bateman Esq.

The General Annual Licensing meeting was held this day, when 46 Licences were renewed in the township of Folkestone, and 3 in Sandgate. The licence of the Radnor Inn was transferred to Henry Waith, until 10^th October next. A Billiard licence was also granted to William Terry, Sandgate.

Spencer Hayward, Bellevue Field, John Hobbs, Bellevue Field, Thomas Austin Hobbs, Bridge Street, made application for new licences, but were in each case refused.

Notes: Spencer Hayward is Belle Vue Hotel, John Hobbs is Mechanics Arms, Thomas Austin Hobbs is unknown.

Southeastern Gazette 18-9-1855

Local News

Annual Licensing Day

Monday: Before the Mayor and a full bench.

All the licenses were granted except those of the Radnor Inn and Mariners’ Home, which were reported by Superintendent Steer as disorderly and harbouring bad characters. New licenses were applied for the Belle Vue Tavern, Mechanics’ Arms, and Wheatsheaf, all of which were refused, the magistrates considering that there were sufficient licensed, houses already in the town.

Canterbury Journal 15-3-1856

Assizes, Thursday, before Mr. Justice Coleridge.

Charles Wapser and James Gorham were indicted for assaulting Henry Underdown, and stealing from his person, with violence, 18s. in money, a purse and a tobacco box, his money and property, at Folkestone, on the 29^th August, 1855. Mr. Addison appeared for the prosecution; Mr. Poland defended the prisoners.

Henry Underdown:- Was a labourer residing at Folkestone. He was out on the evening of the 29^th August, and was drinking at the Sun (sic) public house. He left and went along to Darlington Place. He came back again and passed by the Bull Dog steps; he went across Mr. Stacey`s field and arrived in St. Peter`s Street. He knew Mr. Morford, the butcher, in that street, where he met the two prisoners, who asked where he was going. He had known them before by sight. He told them he was going home. They wanted him to have a pot of beer, and he complied if they went as far as Mr. Hayford`s (sic). It was shut up. They wanted him to go down town; he declined, but said he was going home, and directly afterwards Wapser knocked him down, and took 18s. and the “backer” box from his pocket. He put his knee on witness`s side, and put his hand in his pocket and took the money out. They ran away. He soon afterwards met the policeman, and made a complaint to him. The next morning Wapser was apprehended at his house – the other prisoner was taken in the evening. Was quite sure the prisoners were the men.

Cross examined: He was not drunk in the evening. The way by the Bull Dog steps was the nearest home. He had been in the public house all the evening; had not been drinking much; had only two pints in the evening. The night was dark. He had been in the company of the prisoners about five minutes before he was thrown down. He remembered taking to a coastguardsman at the time, but could swear he never said that he did not know who had robbed him. Never told William Colbert that he was robbed in the meadow. He would swear he did not. He had said he was robbed near the British School. Told the policeman he had been robbed of something under a pound. They offered to assist him home. Did not know where Wapser lived. He went to other places before he went there. The tobacco box had his initials upon it. Had seen the prisoners many times before. He (witness) was a labourer. Was out of work on that day. He never heard the prisoner say he was innocent, but the other had made a statement to that effect. He called after the men when robbed, and ran a little way but not far.

Hannah Lake:- Lived at No. 10, St. Peter`s Street, Folkestone. She was in bed at her residence between eleven and twelve when she heard a cry of “Stop, theif.” The noise lasted a great while.

Thomas Atkinson Davidson:- Was clerk to the magistrates at Folkestone. He produced the deposition of Edward Burry, a police officer at Folkestone. He died lately. Witness was present when it was taken. (It was put in and read, but it contained nothing of importance.)

William Gilbert:- Was a police constable at Folkestone. He had met the prosecutor on the night in question; he said he had been robbed.

Cross-examined: Prosecutor first said he was robbed in the meadow – afterwards on his way to New Zealand. He did not seem to know exactly what he was about; he was the worse for liquor.

Re-examined: The meadow is close to New Zealand.

This was the case for the prosecutor.

Mr. Poland addressed the jury for his clients.

The prisoners were acquitted.

Southeastern Gazette 18-3-1856

Assizes, Thursday: Before Mr. Justice Coleridge.

Charles Wapsher and James Gorham, on bail, were charged with assaulting Henry Underdown, and stealing from his person, with violence, 18s. in money, a purse, and a tobacco box, the money and property of the said Henry Underdown, at Folkestone, on the 9^th August. Mr. Addison prosecuted; Mr. Poland defended the prisoner.

Prosecutor, a labourer, deposed to having been at the Gun public house on the 9^th August. About 11 at night he left the Gun, and went past the Shakespeare Inn to Darlington Place. Witness came back again, and went across Mr. Stacey`s field, and then went up St. Peter`s Street. When opposite Mr. Morford`s, butcher, prosecutor met the prisoners, whom he knew well by sight. They asked him where he was going, and he said he was going home. They then asked him to stand a pot of beer, to which he consented, butupon going to a beer shop they found it shut up. He then turned to go home, when the prisoner Charles Wapsher knocked him down, and took away the property named in the indictment. The other man put his arm round witness`s throat in order that he should not holloa out. Witness however, struggled very hard, and managed to call out. Prisoners then ran away; witness followed them, but could not catch them. He afterwards met a policeman, who apprehended the prisoners next morning. Witness was positive as to their identity.

Cross-examined: Was not sober at the time, but knew what he was about. Had been at the Gun during the greater part of the evening. Had one pint of beer only in the afternoon, and two in the evening. It was a darkish night. Was in the company of the prisoners about five minutes before he was thrown down. Recollected talking to a coastguardsman that night. Did not recollect telling him that he did not know who it was that robbed him. Did not say that he was robbed in the meadow. Witness said he was robbed against the British School. Told the policeman that he had been robbed of something under £1. Was not so drunk that he required to be assisted home. The tobacco box had his initials on it. Should know the purse again if he saw it. He had not seen it since. Had seen the prisoners scores of times. When the men ran off witness cried out “Stop, thief”, and ran after them, but could not run very far because he suffered from palpitation of the heart.

Hannah Luke, residing at No. 10, St. Peter`s Street, Folkestone, deposed to hearing the cry of “Stop, thief” about the time mentioned by the last witness on the night in question.

Cross-examined: The noise continued a long time. Witness was alone in her bedroom, and was afraid to go out.

By the Judge: The noise appeared to be made by a great many people.

William Gilbert, formerly police constable of Folkestone, deposed to having seen the prosecutor on the night of the robbery, about twelve o`clock, when he complained of being robbed.

Cross-examined: Prosecutor said he was robbed in the meadow; afterwards on his way to New Zealand. He did not seem to know exactly what he was about.

Other evidence of a similar character having been adduced, the prisoners, in defence, denied all knowledge of the occurrence, and stoutly declared that they were not near the place described by the prosecutor, on the night of 9^th August.

Witnesses were then called, who gave the prisoners an excellent character. Acquitted,

Southeastern Gazette 10-6-1856

Advertisement: Folkestone, to let, Bellevue Tavern, a free beer house, doing from £35 to £40 per month. Rent moderate. The modern furniture, fittings, &c., at a valuation, about £150.

Apply to Mr. John Banks, Auctioneer, Folkestone, or on the premises; all letters to be prepaid, or they will not receive an answer.

Folkestone Chronicle 13-9-1856

Monday September 8^th: - Special sessions were holden for the purpose of renewing licences, and granting new ones. Present, the Mayor, and G. Kennicott, S. Godden, W. Major, J. Kelcey, W. Bateman, S. Mackie, and J. Kinsford esqs.

The licences of 45 houses were renewed. Mr. John Minter made an application on the part of Mr. Spencer Hayward for a licence for his house, in Bellevue Fields. This being the third application the magistrates granted it.

Southeastern Gazette 16-9-1856

Special Sessions, Monday: Before the Mayor, T Golder, W. Major, W. Bateman, G. Kennicott, J. Kingsnorth, J. Kelcey, and S. Mackie, Esqs.

This being licensing day, 55 licenses were renewed, and one refused.

Mr. John Minter, solicitor, applied for a spirit license for Mr. Spencer Hayward, of Belle Vue Tavern, who had twice previously applied to the magistrates. Mr. Minter showed that the applicant was a respectable man, and had conducted his house properly, and that since the last license was granted in that neighbourhood, 102 houses had been built. License granted.

Note: This seems to indicate that the Bellevue WAS licensed before 1856

Kentish Gazette 16-9-1856

At a special sessions, on Monday, the licenses of 45 houses were renewed. A new license was granted to Mr. Hayward for Bellevue Fields.

Folkestone Chronicle 6-6-1857

Wednesday June 3^rd: - Before R.W. Boarer esq., Mayor, and J. Kelcey, J. Tolputt, W. Bateman esqs., and Capt. Kennicott.

The following licence was transferred: Belle Vue Tavern, from Spencer Hayward to William Hills

Note: More Bastions lists this as George Hills

Folkestone Chronicle 21-11-1857

Inquest

During the past week, by a singular fatality, two inquests have been holden here, before the Coroner, S. Eastes, Esq. The second was holden before the Coroner, on Wednesday the 18^th inst., at the Mechanics Arms, Bellevue Fields, on the body of Peter Mahoney, a private of the 4^th King`s Own Regiment of Foot, the depot of which Regt. is now stationed at Shorncliffe.

From the evidence of Hugh Evans, a soldier in the same regiment, it appears that the deceased, witness, and five more soldiers left the camp on the evening of Tuesday, about 6 o`clock, and directly they arrived in Folkestone they went to the Bellevue Tavern, where they remained drinking till about 10 p.m. Deceased drank freely, as well as the other soldiers, and became noisy and quarrelsome; the landlord and a sergeant of the 98^th endeavoured to put deceased and the others out, which they had some trouble in doing. When they got into the street four of the men, including deceased, then began breaking the windows – witness then left, and presently deceased and one of the other soldiers passed witness running, witness followed them, and upon arriving opposite the Mechanics Arms witness asked deceased what was the matter with him, he called out “I am bleeding to death”, when he fell on his back, and never spoke afterwards: witness asked for some water, and then assisted by another comrade carried deceased into the Mechanics Arms, took off his coat and found he was wounded on the right wrist, which was then bleeding slightly – witness then bound the wound up and sent for a doctor.

William Hills deposed, he was landlord of the Bellevue Tavern. On Tuesday night, about 8 o`clock, a party of soldiers, one of whom was deceased, came into his house and remained drinking until 9 p.m., they then wanted witness to let them have a gallon of beer on trust, which witness declined, they continued in the house till 10, when they pulled down the gas pendant, and came downstairs: witness with assistance then put them out of the house and closed the door – immediately afterwards six squares of glass were broken – witness then sent for the police. Deceased had been in the house often, and always behaved himself well; deceased was a little the worse for drink when he left the house.

Charles Egerton Fitzgerald deposed, he was a surgeon, residing at Folkestone. About half past 10 on Tuesday evening witness was sent for, to a soldier, who was wounded in the arm. Witness went to the Mechanics Arms, and found deceased sitting in front of the bar, supported by two other soldiers. There was a large pool of blood on the floor, nearly all coagulated; deceased was in a state of collapse, and could not speak, the pulsation of the heart was feeble and fluttering, his extremities were cold, and witness found two wounds on the right wrist, one superficial and the other deep. Witness had deceased moved to another room, laid him on his back, and gave him stimulants, but he never spoke and lived about a quarter of an hour or twenty minutes after witness` arrival. Witness examined the wound but found nothing in it, the radial artery was wounded, four of the extensor tendons of the hand were separated, and the joint was laid quite open. Witness attributed his death to haemorrhage from a laceration of the radial artery. The artery was extensively lacerated for about three quarters of it`s diameter, there was no haemorrhage after the witness arrived. The wound was such as would be caused by glass, it was not a clean cut but a lacerated one.

This being the whole of the evidence, the jury returned the following verdict. “The deceased, Peter Mahoney, came by his death from a wound received by breaking a square of glass at the Bellevue Tavern”.

Southeastern Gazette 24-11-1857

Inquest

On Wednesday an inquest was held before Silvester Eastes, Esq., coroner, at the Mechanics’ Arms, on the body of Peter Mahoney, aged 26, a soldier in the 4th Foot, stationed at Shorncliffe.

From the evidence of private Hugh Evans, of the same regiment, it appeared that on Tuesday evening himself and six other soldiers left the camp at about half-past 5, and proceeded to the Bellevue Tavern, where they had sundry quarts of beer. Deceased, Carroll, and Priest became intoxicated. A quarrel took place, on the landlord refusing to supply them with drink on credit. One of them pulled down the gas pendant, and they all came downstairs, Priest and Carroll striking the landlord. The men were afterwards turned out, and he stood opposite and saw the men smash the window; deceased was amongst them ; he afterwards saw deceased run away, and on overtaking him he told witness that he was bleeding to death. Having procured assistance he took deceased to the Mechanics’ Arms, and a doctor was sent for, but he shortly after expired.

William Hills, landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, corroborated the last witness, but said the deceased was a quiet, inoffensive man generally.

Mr. Charles Egerton Fitzgerald, surgeon, deposed that he was called to attend the deceased; found him sitting upright on a form with two soldiers ; he could not speak, and his heart was acting feebly; administered stimulants, but he never railed. Had examined the body after death, and found that there were two superficial wounds on the wrist, and one deep one; four of the extenso tendons were cut through, and the radial artery two-thirds through; the wrist joint also cut through, evidently by glass and not by a knife .

Verdict, “That the deceased fame by his death from a wound received by breaking a square of glass at the Bellevue Tavern”.

Kentish Gazette 24-11-1857

An inquest was holden before the Coroner, on Wednesday, at the Mechanics’ Arms, Belle Vue Fields, on the body of Peter Mahoney, a private of the 4th King’s Own Regiment of Foot. It appeared that the deceased with some companions was drinking at the Belle Vue Tavern on Tuesday, and when at nine o’clock p.m. the landlord refused to give them any more beer, they began to break the windows, and the deceased in doing so cut his wrist, dividing the radial artery, so that he bled to death. The jury having heard the evidence returned the following verdict. “The deceased, Peter Mahoney, came by his death from a wound received by breaking a square of glass at the Belle Vue Tavern.”

Canterbury Weekly Journal 28-11-1857

On Wednesday week an inquest was held before Silvester Eastes Esq., Coroner, at the Mechanics Arms, on the body of Peter Mahoney, aged 26, a soldier of the 4^th Foot, stationed at Shorncliffe.

From the evidence of Hugh Evans, of the same regiment, it appeared that on Tuesday evening, himself and six other soldiers left the camp at about half past five, and proceeded to the Bellevue Tavern, where they had sundry quarts of beer. Deceased, Carroll and Priest became intoxicated. A quarrel took place, on the landlord refusing to supply them with drink on credit. One of them pulled down the gas pendant, and they all came downstairs, Priest and Carroll striking the landlord. The men were afterwards turned out, and he stood opposite and saw the men smash the window; deceased was amongst them; he afterwards saw deceased run away, and on overtaking him he told witness that he was bleeding to death. Having procured assistance he took deceased to the Mechanics Arms, and a doctor was sent for, but he shortly after expired.

William Hills, the landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, corroborated the last witness, but said that the deceased was a quiet, inoffensive man generally.

Mr. Charles Egerton Fitzgerald, surgeon, deposed that he was called on to attend the deceased; found him sitting upright on a form with two soldiers; he could not speak, but his heart was acting feebly; administered stimulants, but he never rallied. Had examined the body after death, and found that there were two superficial wounds on the wrist, and one deep one; four of the extensor tendons were cut through, and the radial artery two-thirds through; the wrist joint was also cut through, evidently by glass, and not with a knife.

Verdict: “That the deceased came by his death through a wound received by breaking a square of glass at the Bellevue Tavern.”

Kentish Express 28-11-1857

On Wednesday an inquest was held before Silvester Eastes Esq., Coroner, at the Mechanics Arms, on the body of Peter Mahoney, aged 26, a soldier of the 4^th Foot, stationed at Shorncliffe.

William Hills, the landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, corroborated the last witness, but said that the deceased was a quiet, inoffensive man generally.

Mr. Charles Egerton Fitzgerald, surgeon, deposed that he was called on to attend the deceased and examined the body after death, and found that there were two superficial wounds on the wrist, and one deep one; the wrist joint was also cut through, evidently by glass, and not with a knife.

Verdict: “That the deceased came by his death through a wound received by breaking a square of glass at the Bellevue Tavern.”

Kentish Independent 28-11-1857

On Wednesday week an inquest was held before Silvester Eastes Esq., Coroner, at the Mechanics Arms, on the body of Peter Mahoney, aged 26, a soldier of the 4^th Foot, stationed at Shorncliffe.

William Hills, the landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, corroborated the last witness, but said that the deceased was a quiet, inoffensive man generally.

Mr. Charles Egerton Fitzgerald, surgeon, deposed that he was called on to attend the deceased; found him sitting upright on a form with two soldiers; he could not speak, and his heart was acting feebly; administered stimulants, but he never rallied. Had examined the body after death, and found that there were two superficial wounds on the wrist, and one deep one; four of the extensor tendons were cut through, and the radial artery two-thirds through; the wrist joint was also cut through, evidently by glass, and not with a knife.

Verdict: “That the deceased came by his death through a wound received by breaking a square of glass at the Bellevue Tavern.”

Maidstone Journal 28-11-1857

Last week an inquest was held before Silvester Eastes Esq., Coroner, at the Mechanics Arms, Folkestone, on the body of Peter Mahoney, aged 25, a soldier in the 5^th Foot, stationed at Shorncliffe. It appeared that deceased and several other soldiers of the same regiment proceeded to the Bellevue Tavern, where they had sundry quarts of beer, and the deceased became intoxicated. A quarrel took place on the landlord refusing to supply them with drink on credit. The men were afterwards turned out, when they commenced smashing the window. Shortly afterwards deceased ran away, and on being overtaken he was found to be bleeding to death. A doctor was sent for, but he shortly afterwards expired. Mr. Charles Egerton Fitzgerald, surgeon, examined the body after death, and found that there were two superficial wounds on the wrist, and one deep one; four of the extensor tendons were cut through, and the radial artery two-thirds through; the wrist joint was also cut through, evidently by glass, and not with a knife. Verdict: “That the deceased came by his death through a wound received by breaking a square of glass at the Bellevue Tavern.”

Folkestone Chronicle 2-1-1858

Quarter Sessions

Richard Harris, a soldier in the East Kent Militia Artillery was placed at the bar, indicted for stealing a silver watch, valued at £4 10s., the property of William Hills, of Folkestone, on the 28^th December. Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty.

Mary Hills (the first witness called) having been sworn said I am the wife of William Hills, the landlord of the Bellevue Tavern. I recollect the 28^th December. On that day I lost a small silver watch. It was my son`s watch – he is at sea – he left it in my care when he went away. (The watch produced by Mr. Hart was identified by witness) I will swear to the watch, having had it in my possession more than five years. I left it in a tumbler on my drawers in my own bedroom. I have always been in the habit of wearing it – only left it off that morning, having a blister on my neck. I missed it about 5 o`clock in the evening when I went upstairs to change my dress. I went up without a light. I called to my little girl to ask her if she had removed it – on her replying in the negative, I told her to call the servant and bring a light. I asked her if she had removed it. She said she had not seen it since two o`clock in the afternoon when she finished dusting the room.

Mary Streeter, sworn, said I am servant to the last witness. About nine o`clock in the morning on the 28^th December, I went up to my mistress`s room and found prisoner there. I asked him what he was doing there. He said he wanted his stock. I went to his room where he had slept and got his stock and fastened it on. I saw the watch in a tumbler on the drawers while prisoner was in the room. I had never seen him in there before. His room was the next to it. When I told him his stock was not in that room, he went out and went downstairs after I had given it to him. I then locked the door and put the key under the mat. I am in the habit of doing this – prisoner did not see me. There was no other lodger in the house. I went downstairs and told mistress I had seen prisoner in her room – did not go up again until about two in the afternoon, when the watch was there. I locked the door, and put the key in the same place. Prisoner came to the house on Saturday. This took place on Monday. I will swear to prisoner being the same man – he had been up and down stairs all day. I had seen him in the club room. When mistress called me up about five o`clock, the watch was gone.

Mordecai Hart (having been sworn in the Hebrew manner), said, I am a pawnbroker, living in High Street, Folkestone. I remember prisoner coming to my shop about 5 p.m. on Monday, 28^th December. He offered the watch (produced) in pawn – prisoner said the watch belonged to him – he had given £2 15s for it – he wanted 30s upon it. I offered him 20s. He then took it up and went away – came again in a few minutes, and took the £1, observing there would be less to pay when he wanted it. About a quarter of an hour later, a constable and prosecutor came and asked if I had taken a watch in. I said I had – they were just too late – the man had only just gone.

Samuel Solomons stated that he was assistant to Mr. M. Hart, recollected seeing prisoner in the shop on Monday, 28^th December, about five o`clock in the evening. The shop was lighted with gas. I usually light it about four. I am certain prisoner is the man. He wanted to pledge the watch for 30s. Mr. Hart offered him 20s. I was not present when Mr. Hills and the constable came in. Mr. Hart and I immediately went to Sandgate in search of the prisoner – did not find him. When we came back I went with the sergeant of police to search the public houses in Folkestone – found prisoner in the Marquis of Granby, High Street. I told him the watch he had pledged was stolen. The constable at once took him into custody – did not deny the charge. He seemed to be drunk. Could not walk steady when he came to the shop.

The Recorder here made some strong remarks about pawnbrokers being incautious from whom they took property, and especially in this case, from a man in liquor. He observed he had before had to remark on Mr. Hart, and he advised him now to be more particular.

P,C, Newman, sergeant of police, having been sworn, corroborated the latter part of the evidence of the previous witness Solomon, adding that when he searched prisoner he had but 6d and 2d in money, a knife, and a pouch. The 6d he immediately threw in his mouth, and witness believed swallowed it.

Mr. Hart having been recalled, stated that the money he had given prisoner for the watch consisted of a half sovereign, two half crowns, two florins, six pence and four pence.

The jury after a few moments consultation returned a verdict of “Guilty”, and prisoner was sentenced to six months hard labour.

William Grimes, a soldier of the 4^th Regiment, was placed at the bar, charged with stealing a railway wrapper, value 7s, the property of Mordecai Hart, of Folkestone, on the 7^th November.

Israel Hart, having been sworn, said I am the son of Mr. M. Hart, outfitter and pawnbroker, of Tontine Street and High Street. On the 11^th November about eight o`clock in the evening, police constable Woodland brought the wrapper to me. I identified it by the particular manner it was hung up by a cord – the ticket had been taken off. I had not sold one.

P.C. Woodland, sworn, said, on the 11^th November I went to the Bellevue Tavern in search of a soldier. I found prisoner upstairs lying on a sofa, and the wrapper about three yards from him on a table. There were several other soldiers in the room. From information received from the landlord, I took prisoner into custody. He was very drunk at the time. Did not state the charge to him until I got him to the station. He then said he had come by it somehow, he did not know how.

William Hills said I am the landlord of the Bellevue Tavern. About half past seven on 11^th November, prisoner came in and went upstairs with a parcel under his arm. It was a square parcel – could not see what it was – it looked like a brown paper parcel. I was six or seven yards off when he passed me. Thinking it suspicious to see a soldier come in with a large parcel I gave information to police constable Woodland who came in just afterwards.

The jury retired and returned in about ten minutes with a verdict of “Acquittal”.

Southeastern Gazette 5-1-1858

Quarter Sessions.

These sessions were held on Thursday, before J. J. Lonsdale, Esq.,

Richard Harris, 23, a soldier, was indicted for stealing a watch, value £4 10s., the property of William Hills, at Folkestone, on the 28th December.

Mary Hills, wife of William Hills, landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, deposed that on the day named she missed the watch from a tumbler where she had placed it on her dressing table. The watch belonged to her son, who was at sea. Prisoner slept in an adjoining room.

Mary Ann Streeter, servant to the last witness, said she saw the prisoner in her mistress’s bedroom in the morning. She asked him what he did there, and he said he was looking for his stock. Witness found the stock in the prisoner’s own bedroom. She saw him up and down the stairs several times during the day. When she cleaned her mistress’s room she put the key under the mat.

Mordecai Hart, pawnbroker, deposed to the prisoner pawning the watch at his shop for 20s.

P C. Thomas Newman apprehended the prisoner at the Marquis of Granby public-house; he was much intoxicated.

Six months’ hard labour.

William Grimes, 22, a private in the 4th regiment, stationed at Shorncliffe, was indicted for stealing a railway wrapper, value 7s., the property of Mordecai Hart, on the 7th November last.

It appeared that the prosecutor missed the wrapper from the door, and acquainted the police. Prisoner was seen to walk up stairs at the Bellevue Tavern with a parcel under his arm, and when the policeman arrived he found the prisoner on a sofa, tipsy, and the rug about three yards from him. There were several soldiers in the room at the time.

Prisoner said that a soldier named Carney had stolen the wrapper.

The jury having returned a verdict of not guilty, the Recorder, in discharging the prisoner, said he had had a very fortunate escape; happily for him the jury did not know what he (the Recorder) did, that he was one of the soldiers in company with Baker, and he cautioned him as to his future conduct.

Canterbury Weekly Journal 9-1-1858

Quarter Sessions, Thursday: Before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

Richard Harris, 23, a soldier, was indicted for stealing a watch, value £4 10s., the property of William Hills, at Folkestone, on the 28^th December.

Mary Hills, wife of William Hills, landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, deposed that on the day named she missed the watch from a tumbler, where she had placed it on her dressing table. The watch belonged to her son, who was at sea. Prisoner slept in an adjoining room.

Mary Ann Streeter, servant to the last witness, said she saw the prisoner in her mistress`s bedroom in the morning. She asked him what he did there, and he said he was looking for his stock. Witness found the stock in the prisoner`s own bedroom. She saw him up and down the stairs several times during the day. When she cleaned her mistress`s room she put the key under the mat.

Mordecai Hart, pawnbroker, deposed to the prisoner pawning the watch at his shop for 20s.

P.C. Thomas Newman apprehended the prisoner at the Marquis of Granby public house; he was much intoxicated.

Six months` hard labour

William Grimes, 22, a private in the 4^th Regiment, stationed at Shorncliffe, was indicted for stealing a railway wrapper, value 7s., the property of Mordecai Hart, on the 7^th November last.

It appeared that the prosecutor missed the wrapper from the door and acquainted the police. Prisoner was seen to walk upstairs at the Bellevue Tavern with a parcel under his arm, and when the policeman arrived he found the prisoner on a sofa, tipsy, and the rug about three yards from him. There were several soldiers in the room at the time.

Prisoner said that a soldier named Carney had stolen the wrapper.

The jury having returned a verdict of Not Guilty, the Recorder, in discharging the prisoner, said that he had had a very fortunate escape; happily for him the jury did not know what he (the Recorder) did, that he was one of the soldiers in company with Baker, and he cautioned him as to his future conduct.

Dover Chronicle 9-1-1858

Quarter Sessions

Richard Harris, 23, a soldier, was indicted for stealing a watch, value £4 10s., the property of William Hills, at Folkestone on the 28th December.

Mordecai Hart, pawnbroker, deposed to the prisoner pawning the watch in his shop for 20s.

P.C. Thomas Newman apprehended the prisoner at the Marquis of Granby public house; he was much intoxicated.

Six months` hard labour.

Dover Telegraph 9-1-1858

Quarter Sessions, 31^st December: Before J.J. Lonsdale Esq.

Richard Harris, 23, a soldier, indicted for stealing a watch, value £4 10s., the property of William Hills, at Folkestone, on the 28^th December, was found Guilty, and sentenced to six months` imprisonment.

Southeastern Gazette 9-2-1858

Wednesday: Before the Mayor and J. Kelcey, Esqs.

Alfred Tidmarsh was charged with an assault on Mary Striler, servant at the Belle Vue Tavern.

One month’s hard labour, in default of paying 10s. and costs.

Folkestone Chronicle 3-4-1858

Thursday April 1^st:- Before the Mayor and James Kelcey esq.

John Taylor, a private in the West York regiment of militia, was charged with obtaining £5 under false pretences, as detailed below.

Sarah Constable, wife of the landlord of the Mechanics Arms, Bellevue Fields, stated that about a fortnight ago, prisoner asked her for change of a £5 note, at the same time giving her what she supposed was a £5 note; not having the change herself she sent her servant to a neighbouring public house, the Bellevue Tavern, to get it changed, her servant brought the change, and she gave the same to the prisoner.

The servant corroborated the evidence of her mistress.

Mary Hills, wife of the landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, deposed, that about a fortnight or three weeks ago, the last witness came to her and asked for change of what she supposed was a £5 Bank Of England note; she gave change for it, and put it away in a purse with some gold; she did not see it again until yesterday morning (Wednesday), when her husband having a payment to make, she gave him the note folded up; no person, not even her husband, had access to the drawer in which she kept her purse containing the money.

William Hills, husband of the last witness, deposed that his wife gave him what he supposed was a Bank Of England note for £5, upon unfolding it, however, he found it to be a note on the Bank Of Engraving, No. 7651, he immediately enquired of his wife where she got it, upon her telling him, he went to the witness, Constable, who told him she had got it from the prisoner. The police were then communicated with, and the prisoner taken into custody.

The prisoner, in answer to the charge, said he took a £5 note to the witness, Mrs. Constable, for change, he should be able to identify the note again; upon taking it she opened and read it, and said it was all right. He had received it from a young man in Lancashire for work he had done for him.

The magistrates committed the prisoner for trial on Tuesday next, at the Quarter Sessions.

Folkestone Chronicle 17-4-1858

Quarter Sessions

Tuesday April 13^th :- John Taylor, a private in the West York Militia regiment pleaded Not Guilty to a charge of obtaining under false pretences the sum of £5, the property of Richard Constable, at Folkestone, on the 22^nd March, 1858.

Mr. Biron, by direction of the Recorder, conducted the prosecution, prisoner was defended by Mr. John Minter. Before the case commenced the witnesses were ordered out of court.

The learned counsel for the prosecution then said, this was a case of obtaining £5 by false pretence. The facts were as follows – on 22^nd March prisoner went into a beerhouse kept by the prosecutor, and asked his wife if she could change a £5 note for him, she could not herself, but sent her servant to a neighbour`s and there obtained it. She paid the money over to prisoner, and heard no more about it, until a few days ago, when Hills, the neighbour whose wife had changed the note, had occasion to make a payment, and then it was found the supposed note was one on the “Bank of Engraving”, perfectly useless. Mr. Biron then called Sarah Constable, who on examination deposed the abobe facts.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter. Could not swear that the piece of paper produced was that given her by the prisoner. Was a married woman. Had not any more flash notes. Did not tell the superintendent that she had more flash notes in her possession – told Mr. Hills that she had some six years ago. Knew a man named Homer Smith, of the 3^rd West Yorks Rifles – left her husband`s house with Smith – took with her a timepiece, some blankets, and the money from the till, and her clothes. Her husband has never prosecuted Smith.

Cross-examined by the Court. Was a week and three days away with Smith – went away just after prisoner changed the note – returned about a week since.

Catherine Godden deposed to having been sent to Mr. Hills for change.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter. The prisoner came frequently to the house before and since the note was changed.

Mary Hills deposed to giving change for what she supposed was a Bank Of England £5 note - had put it away until a payment was required to be made, she then gave it to her husband.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter. Knew the prisoner well – did not believe him capable of committing such a crime.

William Hills deposed, he was husband of the last witness, and landlord of the Bellevue Tavern, his wife gave him the paper produced as a £5 note, said she had received it from the servant of Mr. Constable – when he went to Mrs. Constable she told witness she had several such notes as that, this one had been given to her by a soldier, naming the witness.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter. Knew the prisoner well – he was a well conducted young man – could not believe him guilty of the offence. Mrs. Constable said before the superintendent she had two or three flash notes in her workbox.

William Martin, superintendent of police, deposed that the piece of paper now produced had been given to him by Mrs. Constable.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter. Heard Mrs. Constable say she had some flash notes like that one in her workbox. This completed the case.

Mr. Minter in addressing the jury for the defence said, he trusted the jury would give the prisoner the benefit of the grave doubts that must arise in their minds from revising the evidence given in support of this charge – he had a good foundation to go upon. The evidence in this case asked them to believe a manifest absurdity; here is a man in the daily habit of visiting a house where it is proposed to be proved he had effected this fraudulent transaction. Now, if the man were guilty, surely the house where he had done it would not be the house he should make his resort, putting himself as it were into the very hands of justice; how was he to know the landlady would have to send out for change, when that was proposed, one would imagine that having a guilty knowledge of the note, he would have said, “No, give it back to me”; but he does no such thing, he goes upstairs to his company, and quietly sits down till called by the landlady to receive the change. The only person upon whom the prosecution rests, is Mrs. Constable; and who, hearing that witness`s evidence, was to prove that she did not take one of the flash notes out of her workbox, and send for change, when, if discovered, she could easily say the soldier gave it to me. The learned counsel for the prosecution had not asked the question. “who was there when the note was given by the prisoner to Mrs. Constable”, he should assume no-one else. What then is the conviction that should force itself upon their minds, - that looking at the witness`s conduct, she wanted money to go off with her paramour. Suppose Mrs. Constable an honest woman, there would be no corroborative evidence, - but she had admitted herself to be a prostitute. The entire case rested upon her evidence, and he trusted the jury would show their idea of it by returning a verdict of Not Guilty.

The Recorder in summing up said, the prisoner was charged with obtaining five pounds by false pretences. Considering the serious nature of the charge against the prisoner, and taking into consideration the slight nature of the evidence against the prisoner, he thought they ought to agree in acquitting him. The only fact against the prisoner was, that soldiers are not often in possession of £5 notes. The principal grounds on which they ought to return a verdict of Not Guilty, in his opinion, arose from the fact of the principal witness being not worthy of belief. When a woman runs away from her husband and robs him, it makes her evidence excessively doubtful against the prisoner; again, it is impossible that anyone would take that piece of paper from another person, and that person a soldier, as a £5 note. He thought the jury would be quite right in acquitting the prisoner, though of course it was their verdict, and not his.

The jury the consulted for a few moments, and returned a verdict of “Not Guilty”.

Some applause was manifested in court at the verdict, but it was immediately suppressed.

Southeastern Gazette 18-5-1858

County Court.

The Court was held on Wednesday, before C. Harwood, Esq.

William Hills v. Richard Constable.: This was an action for £5. Mr. Minter for plaintiff.

The facts, as stated by Mr. Minter, and proved in evidence, were, that the defendant’s wife went to the plaintiff with a note purporting to be a Bank of England note, and asked for change, which was given by Mrs. Hills, landlady of the Bell Vue Tavern, who did not then observe that it was a “ flash” note. Mr. Hills, about a fortnight afterwards, asked his wife for the note; he then discovered what it was, and saw the defendant’s wife, who said she had obtained it of a soldier, named Taylor. The latter was apprehended and acquitted at the quarter sessions. It came out then that the defendant’s wife had several similar “flash” notes. Plaintiff now sought to recover the £5 obtained by the defendant s wife.

Mr. and Mrs. Hills were examined, also Taylor, of the West York Militia, who bore the character of a respectable man in his station. The Judge examined him as to how he came into possession of the £5 note. Hhe said he was in work in Manchester previous to joining the Militia, at min shoring, and earned a portion; a man named WNickem Jack” paid him £3 10s., borrowed money, with the £5 note, which he had kept in his knapsack, in an envelope, until he changed it at the Mechanics’ Arms. He gave a Bank of England note to Mrs. Constable, and had been in the habit of going to her house since.

His Honour said the further the case proceeded, the more it criminated the defendant’s wife, and he did not wish to have to commit her. He did not like Taylor’s account of how he became possessed of the note, and the question was who was to be the loser? He thought the husband was not liable for the acts of his wife. He would consider what verdict should be given.

Verdict deferred.

Folkestone Chronicle 22-5-1858

Tuesday May 18^th:- Before R.W. Boarer esq., W. Major esq., and G. Kennicott esq.

Alfred Tidmarsh was charged with assaulting Mary Hills, landlady of the Bellevue Tavern. Fined one shilling and costs.

William Corke was charged with using threatening language to the above complainant by which she went in bodily fear. Prisoner was further charged with resisting the constable in the execution of his duty, and with being drunk and riotous while in the police station. Dismissed on the first charge, fined £3 and costs on the second charge, and committed for seven days on the third charge.

Kentish Mercury 22-5-1858

County Court: Before C. Harwood Esq.

William Hills v Richard Constable: This was an action for £5. Mr. Minter for plaintiff.

The facts, as stated by Mr. Minter, and proved in evidence, were, that the defendant`s wife went to the plaintiff with a not purporting to be a Bank of England note, and asked for change, which was given by Mrs. Hills, landlady of the Belle Vue Tavern, who did not then observe that it was a “flash” note. Mr. Hills, about a fortnight afterwards, asked his wife for the note; he then discovered what it was, and saw the defendant`s wife, who said she had obtained it of a soldier, named Taylor. The latter was apprehended, and acquitted at the Quarter Sessions. It came out then that the defendant`s wife had served similar “flash” notes. Plaintiff now sought to recover the £5 obtained by the defendant`s wife.

Mr. and Mrs. Hills were examined, also Taylor, of the West Yorkshire Militia, who bore the character of a respectable man in his station. The judge examined him as to how he came into possession of the £5 note; he said he was in work in Manchester previous to joining the Militia, at main shoring, and earned a portion; a man named “Nickem Jack” paid him £3 10s., borrowed money, with the £5 note, which he had kept in his knapsack, in an envelope, until he changed it at the Mechanics’ Arms. He gave a Bank of England note to Mrs. Constable, and had been in the habit of going to her house since.

Verdict deferred.

Folkestone Chronicle 3-7-1858

Coroner`s Inquest.

An inquest was holden at the Bellevue Tavern before S. Eastes esq., and a respectable jury, on Monday June 28^th, on the body of Robert Conquest, aged 12, who was unfortunately drowned whilst bathing in East Wear Bay on the Saturday previous. The jury having been sworn proceeded to the residence of the deceased, and viewed the body; after which the following evidence was adduced: - John Lott, a youth, deposed that several boys, deceased amongst them, were bathing; deceased could swim a little; after being in the water a short time he called out for help, but none of the other boys could swim, so that they could not help him; after a little while deceased sunk, and then the boys ran for assistance.

Wm. Matthews deposed he was called by one of the boys, and wading into the water he discovered the body of deceased in about four feet of water, deceased was quite dead, having been in the water some time; he however, took him to his cottage and put him in a warm bath, and used other remedies. The coroner having summed up, the jury returned a verdict of 2accidentally drowned while bathing”.

The funeral of the above unfortunate youth took place at Christ Church on Wednesday last, twenty eight of his schoolfellows, with their master, following him to the grave.

Southeastern Gazette 31-8-1858

Wednesday: Before the Mayor and J. Kelcey, Esq.

At the sitting of the magistrates on Wednesday, the following license was transferred: The Belle Vue Tavern, from William Hills to Charles Griggs

Folkestone Chronicle 2-10-1858

Tuesday September 28^th:- Before Gilbert Jennicott esq., and W Major esq.

Mary Ann Hall was brought up on remand, and Daniel Livingstone, a private in the 100^th Regiment, charged with stealing a Portemonnai, containing a gold Albert chain, and several articles of jewellery, value £9, the property of Corporal Salter, of the 100^th Regiment.

It appeared from the evidence, that the prosecutor Salter, had been invalided to the hospital at the Camp, Shorncliffe, and left the above property in his knapsack in charge of Corporal Browning – That a short time after, he was also invalided to the hospital, and during his absence his hut had been entered, and the property abstracted from his knapsack.

A few weeks ago, the prisoner Hall, and another female, Louisa Bowlden, were in the Alma public house, Sandgate, when the prisoner Livingstone came in, and calling Hall out, gave her the purse, &c., saying “take care of this, and if it is claimed, you must deliver it up”. Hall took it, and next day sold it to Mrs. Hills, landlady of the Bellevue Tavern, Folkestone, for £2.

The prisoner Livingstone said he went into the room and called for a pint of beer – and shortly after, on getting up to go away, in stooping to pick up his stick, he found the purse, &c., under the table. He delivered it up to Hall (believing she was a waitress in the house) and told her to take it to her master, or take charge of it until it was claimed. Both prisoners were committed for trial at St. Augustine`s, Canterbury.

Wednesday September 29^th:- Before the Mayor, G. Kennicott and W. Major esqs.

This being the adjourned licencing day the following licence was transferred: The Bellevue Tavern from William Hills to Charles Griggs.

Southeastern Gazette 5-10-1858

At the Police Court, on Tuesday, Mary Ann Hall was brought up on remand, with Daniel Livingstone, a private in the 100^th Regiment, charged with stealing a portmonnaie, containing a gold Albert chain and several articles of jewellery, value £9, the property of Corporal Salter, of the 100^th Regiment.

It appeared that the prosecutor had been invalided to the hospital at the Camp, Shorncliffe, and left the above property in his knapsack, in charge of Corporal Browning. After a short time Browning also was invalided to the hospital, and during his absence his hut was entered, and the property abstracted.

It was also shown that the prisoner Hall was in the Alma public house in Sandgate when the prisoner Livingstone came in, and calling Hall out, gave her the purse, &c., saying “Take care of this, and if it is claimed you must deliver it up.” Hall took it, and next day sold it to Mrs. Hills, landlady of the Bellevue Tavern, Folkestone, for £2.

Livingstone said he found the purse in the room, and gave it to hall, believing her to be the waitress of the house.

Prisoners were both committed for trial.

Canterbury Journal 9-10-1858

At the Police Court last week, Mary Ann Hall was brought up on remand, with Daniel Livingstone, a private in the 100^th Regiment, charged with stealing a portmonnaie, containing a gold Albert chain and several articles of jewellery, value £9, the property of Corporal Salter, of the 100^th Regiment.

Livingstone said he found the purse in the room, and gave it to hall, believing her to be the waitress of the house.

Prisoners were both committed for trial.

At the sitting of the Magistrates on Wednesday, the following licenses were transferred: The Bellevue Tavern, from William Hills to Charles Griggs; The Princess Royal, South Street, from William Tumber to Edward Sturges; and the Duke of York, Sandgate, from William Wood to Richard Graves Wood. The license of George Kennett, Bricklayers Arms, Fancy Street, was refused. John Dent, of London, applied for a license for the London Stores, wine and spirit vaults, Bail Street, was refused, he having failed to comply with the requirements of the Bench, in producing a certificate of character from where he last resided.

Kentish Express 9-10-1858

At the Police Court last week Mary Ann Hall was brought up on remand, and Daniel Livingstone, a private in the 100^th Regiment, charged with stealing a portemonnaie, containing a gold Albert chain, and several articles of jewellery, value £9, the property of Corporal Salter, of the 100^th Regiment.

It appeared that the prosecutor had been invalided to the hospital at the Camp, Shorncliffe, and left the above property in his knapsack in charge of Corporal Browning. A short time after, Browning also was invalided to the hospital, and during his absence his hut was entered, and the property abstracted.

It was also shown that the prisoner Hall was in the Alma public house in Sandgate, when the prisoner Livingstone came in, and calling Hall out, gave her the purse, &c., saying “Take care of this, and if it is claimed, you must deliver it up”. Hall took it, and next day sold it to Mrs. Hills, landlady of the Bellevue Tavern, Folkestone, for £2.

Livingstone said he found the purse in the room and gave it to Hall, believing her to be the waitress of the house.

Prisoners were both committed for trial.

Folkestone Chronicle 23-10-1858

East Kent Quarter Sessions

October 19^th -20^th

Daniel Livingstone, 18, Soldier, and Mary Hall, 20, married, the former charged with stealing 1 Albert chain, 2 gold lockets, and other articles, the property of Thomas Salter, of Cheriton, on 1^st September and the latter with receiving the same well knowing them to be stolen. – Acquitted.

Canterbury Journal 23-10-1858

East Kent Quarter Sessions, 2^nd Court, Tuesday: Before E.H.K. Hugessen Esq., M.P.

Daniel Livingstone, a private in the 100^th Regiment was charged with stealing a gold chain, pocket and other articles, belonging to a comrade, and Mary Ann Hall was charged with receiving the same, knowing them to have been stolen.

Thomas Salter, a Corporal in the 100^th Regiment, deposed to having lost his property while he was ill in the hospital. He left it in charge of Corporal Browning. The value of it was £9.

Alfred Browning said that the last witness had left the property in his possession. He put the things in his knapsack. When he was taken into hospital he left his knapsack on the shelf, and on coming out again he missed his knapsack, but afterwards found it in its place. The property of the last witness, however, was gone.

By the prisoner: Our knapsacks are not now taken in with us when we go to the hospital but they were at the time I went in.

Mary Hills, of the Bellevue Tavern, Folkestone, purchased the property for £2, not knowing that it was stolen.

Louisa Bowling was with the prisoner Livingstone in the Alma beer shop at Sandgate, when he called the woman Hall out and said “Take these things, and if they are cried give them up.”

Thomas Newman took prisoner into custody, who said he found the articles and gave them to the woman Hall, believing her to be the servant in the public house, where he found the goods, that she might return them to the owner if inquired for.

The prisoners had nothing to say in their defence; and the Chairman having summed up the jury acquitted both the prisoners.

Kentish Gazette 23-10-1858

East Kent Quarter Sessions, Second Court: Before E.H.K. Hugesen esq., M.P.

Thomas Salter, a Corporal in the 100^th Regiment, deposed to having lost his property while he was ill in the hospital. He left it in charge of Corporal Browning. The value of it was £9.

By the prisoner: Our knapsacks are not now taken in with us when we go to the hospital but they were at the time I went in.

Mary Hills, of the Bellevue Tavern, Folkestone, purchased the property for £2, not knowing that it was stolen.

Louisa Bowling was with the prisoner Livingstone in the Alma beer shop at Sandgate, when he called the woman Hall out and said “Take these things, and if they are cried give them up.”

The prisoners had nothing to say in their defence; and the Chairman having summed up the jury acquitted both the prisoners.

Kentish Gazette 26-10-1858

East Kent Quarter Sessions

A second Court was held before E. H. K. Hugessen, Esq., M.P., (in the ehair), Sir Courtenay Honeywood, Bart, and A. Crofton, Esq.

Daniel Livingstone, a private in the 100^th Regiment, was charged with stealing a gold chain, pocket and other articles, belonging to a comrade, and Mary Ann Ball was charged with receiving the same knowing them to have been stolen.

Thomas Seller, a corporal in the 100^th Regiment, deposed to having lost his property whilst ill in the hospital. Hs left it in charge of Corporal Browning. The value of it was £9.

Allred Browning said that the last witness bad left the property in his possession. He put the things in his knapsack. When he was taken into hospital be left his knapsack on the shelf, and on coming out again be missed his knapsack, but afterwards found it in its place. The property of the last witness, however, was gone.

By the prisoner: Our knapsacks are not now taken in with us when we go to the hospital, but they were at the time I went in.

Mary Hills, of the Belle Vue Tarern, Folkestone, purchased the property for £2, not knowing it was stolen.

Louisa Bowling was with the prisoner Livingstone in the Alma beer shop, al Sandgate, when he called the woman Hall out, and said “Take those things and if they are cried give them up.”

Thomas Newman took prisoner into custody, who said he found the articles and gave them to the woman Hall, believing her to be the servant of the public house, where he found the goods, that she might return them to the owner if inquired for.

The prisoners had nothing to say in their defence, and the Chairman having summed up, the jury acquitted both the prisoners.

Dover Chronicle 26-3-1859

Folkestone County Court: Hills v Saxby; claim for £1 16s., for money lent and liquor supplied. Mr. Lyddon appeared for plaintiff, and Mr. Minter for defendant.

William Hills deposed that he was formerly the landlord of the Belle Vue Tavern, Folkestone, and had lent the defendant £1, for which he took an I.O.U., and had supplied beer and liquor for the remainder of the claim.

Cross-examined by Mr. Minter: Had lent defendant several sums of money in 1857. He took a promissory note from defendant for £8 7s. in January, 1858. This was for money lent at different times previously. He summoned defendant in March, 1858 for the amount of the promissory note, and defendant paid the amount. Did not at that time ask for the £1 as he did not think it worthwhile. The remainder of the claim was for beer and liquor supplied after he had summoned defendant.

Mr. Minter, for defendant, said that the £1 had been included in the promissory note for £8 7s., given in January, 1858, and that after that period had bought of plaintiff 4s. 7d. worth of beer, which amount had been paid into Court. The defendant was in America when the remainder of the liquors were said to have been supplied, and therefore there must be a mistake on the part of the plaintiff.

The defendant, being examined, fully bore out the statement made by Mr. Minter, and, in addition, a letter was produced, signed by Mr. Lyddon, and addressed to the defendant, applying for 4s. 7d.

His Honour gave a verdict for the defendant.

Folkestone Chronicle 18-6-1859

Monday June 13^th:- Before the Mayor, A.M.Leith, James Tolputt, and W. Major esqs.

John Banks, hay and straw dealer of Mill Lane, was brought up by police constable Reynolds, charged with being drunk and disorderly near the Bellevue Tavern, on Saturday Night, also with assaulting the police. The case was fully proved, and the magistrates sentenced the defendant to three weeks imprisonment with hard labour.

Kentish Gazette 25-6-1861

Birth: June 21, at the Belle Vue Tavern, Folkestone, the wife of Mr. C. Griggs, of a daughter.

Kentish Chronicle 29-6-1861

Birth: Folkestone, June 21, at the Bellevue Tavern, the wife of Mr. G. Griggs, of a daughter.

Canterbury Weekly Journal 6-7-1861

Birth: June 21, at the Bellevue Tavern, the wife of Mt. C. Griggs, of a daughter.

Kentish Gazette 3-11-1863

Birth: October 25, at the Belle Vue Tavern, Folkestone, the wife of Mr. Charles Griggs, of a daughter.

Folkestone Express 11-7-1874

Advertisement Extract

Mr. John Banks is instructed to sell by Auction, at the King`s Arms Hotel, Folkestone

On Monday, July 27^th, 1874, at Six O`Clock in the Evening

The Following Valuable Freehold and Leasehold Properties and Ground Rent

Lot 15: All that well and substantially built Freehold fully licensed Public House known as the Bellevue Tavern, at the corner of St. John`s Road and St. Peter Street, containing on the Basement: Good beer and coal cellars. Ground Floor: Bar, Parlour and kitchen. On the first and second floors: Large Club Room, 4 Bedrooms and W.C. In the occupation of Mr. Charles Griggs.

The landlord`s fixtures will be included in the sale.

Folkestone Express 1-8-1874

Local News

At the Auction Sale held at the King`s Arms Inn on Monday last by Mr. John Banks, the following property was sold: Lot 15 £600

Folkestone Express 17-3-1877

Local News

At the Police Court on Wednesday the license of the Bellevue, New Zealand, was transferred from Charles Griggs to George Piddock, late of the Carpenters Arms (West Hythe).

Folkestone Chronicle 12-1-1878

Inquest

On Saturday evening an inquest was held at the Harvey Hotel by the Coroner (J. Minter), respecting the death of Robert Burley, a member of the Borough Police Force.

James Burley, K.C.C., deposed: I identify the body as that of my brother, Robert Burley. He was a member of the Folkestone Borough Police and was 21 years of age. I saw him on Thursday last at two o`clock. He was in bed, and told me that when he came off duty on Tuesday he went out with a friend, and remained with him until three or four o`clock in the morning, leaving him at the bottom of Dover Street. On going up Dover Street a little way he ran against two artillerymen, who turned round on him and gave him a thrashing, knocked his hat all to pieces and cut his head. He found blood was running down, and went to a friend`s house and knocked, but could not make anyone hear. He then hurried home to his lodgings, and on going up to the front door fell into the area. He remembered nothing more until he found himself in bed.

William Willis Cooper, landlord of the British Lion, deposed: On Thursday afternoon I went to see the deceased. From information I received I went and asked him if he had called at my house on Wednesday morning at 3-45, and he said “Yes”. I also asked him if he went to my mother`s house at 103, Dover Street, near Radnor Bridge, the same morning, and he replied “Yes”, but did not say what for. He pointed to he left eye, and said he had been knocked about by two soldiers.

Elizabeth Cooper deposed: I am a widow, living at 103, Dover Street. I knew the deceased, Robert Burley. On Wednesday morning, about 20 minutes past four, I was in bed and heard someone come to the door. He knocked with his fist and tried the latch. I got out of bed and opened the window. I said “Who`s there?”. He said “Oh, Mrs. Cooper, will you come down? I am nearly murdered”. I replied “I don`t know who you are. You had better go home. I know nothing of you”. He said “Thank you” and left a few seconds afterwards.

Frank Martin deposed: On Wednesday last, about twenty minutes to five, I was in bed and was aroused by some groaning, and in consequence of that I looked out of the window, and afterwards went down and saw deceased lying in the area. I then called Mr. Woodlands and we took him up to bed. He was insensible. We sent for Dr. Mercer, and he came. There was a large scar on the left eyebrow. It was not bleeding. There was no blood on his face.

Mary Ann Hayward, living at No. 6, Queen Street, deposed: I saw two artillerymen on New Year`s Day in the Bellevue Tavern. They told me they had been out all night, and had strayed away from Dover. As they had no money, my friend and I treated them to a quart of beer. The short one said he did not mean soldiering. I saw them again on Wednesday morning in the Bellevue Tavern. Jarvis told me afterwards that outside the Raglan Tavern they knocked up against a policeman between three and four o`clock in the morning.

Dr. Richard Mercer deposed: I found deceased lying perfectly insensible. He had a small graze over the left eyebrow, which appeared to have been done some time, as the blood was quite dry. I saw him again at eleven o`clock, when he was quite conscious, but paralysed below the left breast. I examined him, and found a fracture of the spine between the shoulders. There were no other marks of violence about him. I asked him if he was perfectly sober at the time, and he said “No”. He had had a little more than was good for him. Deceased died yesterday morning, the 4^th instant, the cause of death being fracture of the spine, which in my opinion was caused by the fall. Supposing he had received the injury in a fight with soldiers it would have been utterly impossible for him to have got home.

The Coroner summed up, and the Jury, after putting a few questions to the Superintendent of Police, returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Folkestone Express 12-1-1878

Last week we reported that Robert Burley, a member of the Borough police force, was seriously injured through having fallen down into the area of the house where he lodged. The poor fellow died about eleven o`clock on Friday morning. From statements made by the deceased to his brother, it seemed that before he got home on Wednesday morning he had been ill-treated by two soldiers, and in consequence of this report a considerable amount of interest was felt in the affair.

An inquest was held on Saturday evening at the Harvey Hotel, by J. Minter Esq., the borough coroner, when the following evidence was taken:

James Burley, a police constable stationed at Lyminge, identified the body as that of his brother. He deposed: His age was 21 last birthday. I saw him on Thursday last, having come to Folkestone in consequence of hearing of his accident. I found him in bed, and I asked him to tell me how it happened. He told me that when he went off duty he changed his clothes and went out with a friend. He was with him until between three and four o`clock in the morning, and left him at the bottom of Dover Street. He went up the street a little way and “ran against” two artillerymen, and they turned round and “dropped into him” and gave him a good thrashing, knocked his hat all to pieces and cut his head or eye. He found blood was running down his face and he went to a friend`s house and knocked. Thinking he could not make anyone hear, he hurried home to his lodgings. Going up to the front door he kicked his left toe against the steps. He put his right foot out to try to save himself, and that slipped on the flag stones, in consequence of his boots having steel brads in them. That threw him round on his left side, and his back came on a low wall and pitched him over into the area. He remembered no more until he found himself in bed. He did not say if the soldiers followed him.

By a juror: I believe the soldiers recognised him as a policeman.

By the Coroner: I do not know if he meant to take them into custody.

The Coroner: From what I can learn, it appears that he thought they were two men absent without leave, and he might as well have the money for apprehending them.

William Wills Cooper, landlord of the British Lion, Bayle, said: On Thursday the 3^rd, in the afternoon, I went and saw the deceased. Two men having come to my house on at 3.40 on the Wednesday morning, I asked the deceased if he was one of them and he said “Yes”. I also asked him if he went to my mother`s house in Dover Street, and he said he did. He did not say what he went for. He lifted his right arm and pointed to his left eye and said he had been knocked about by two soldiers.

Mrs. Elizabeth Cooper, a widow, living at 103, Dover Street, said: I knew the deceased, Robert Burley. On Wednesday morning, about twenty minutes past four o`clock, I was in bed. I heard someone come to the door and knock with their fist, and then try the latch. I opened the window and saw a man and asked “Who`s there?” A voice replied “Oh, Mrs. Cooper, will you come down? I am nearly murdered”. I said “I don`t know who you are; you had better go home”. I could not see who it was. He said “Thank you”, and left a few minutes after. I did not know who it was, nor do I now, except from what my son has told me. The man appeared to be sober, as far as I could judge.

Frank Martin, a waiter, living at 28, Harvey Street, said: About twenty minutes or a quarter to five on Wednesday morning last I was in bed and was aroused by hearing someone groaning. I got up, went down to the front door, and looked over into the area, and there saw the deceased. He was lying on his left side, with his arm underneath him, and his hat was about a foot and a half from his head. He was insensible. I called the assistance of my father-in-law and we got deceased into the passage. We sent for Dr. Mercer, and afterwards put deceased to bed. There was a slight scar on his left eyebrow but there was no blood on his face or any part of him that I could see.

Mary Ann Hayward, a single woman, living at 6, Queen Street, said: On New Year`s Day I saw two artillerymen in the Belle Vue Inn. They told me they had been out all night, and strayed away from Dover. I told them if they did not go back they would be taken into custody. I and a friend treated them to beer, and bread and cheese, as they had no money. The short one, Jarvis, said he did not mean soldiering. They left me at half past eight on Tuesday night, when I gave them twopence to go home with. I saw them again on Wednesday morning in the Belle Vue Inn. They bid me good morning. I asked them why they did not go home, and they said they met the picquet out marching, and if they had gone further they would have been taken in. Jarvis said they were at the Raglan about half past eleven, and that they had knocked up against a policeman about three or four o`clock in the morning. The tall soldier pushed Jarvis, and motioned him to say nothing, and Jarvis laughed. They told me they were hungry and we got them some bread and cheese. About an hour afterwards I hear that a policeman had been ill-used. I asked Jarvis what he had been up to, and he got up and laughed and they both went out. One of them had told me previously that he meant murdering someone. He had had six months imprisonment and did not mean soldiering. He also said he had just had a fortnight`s confinement.

Mr. Richard Mercer, surgeon, said: On Wednesday morning between six and seven o`clock I was called to deceased in Harvey Road. I found him lying in the passage of the house, perfectly insensible. He had a small graze over the left eyebrow, which appeared to have been done some little time, as the blood was quite dry. I assisted to carry him to bed and saw him again at eleven o`clock, when he was quite conscious, but paralysed below the breast. I examined him and found a fracture of the spine between the shoulders. There were no other marks of violence whatever – no bruises or cuts. I asked the deceased how it occurred, and he said he had been spending the evening with some friends and came home about four in the morning. When he got on the doorstep his foot slipped and he fell over the wall into the area. I asked him if he was perfectly sober at the time, and he said “No, I had a little more than was good for me”. In consequence of the reports about deceased having been knocked about by soldiers I have today and yesterday again examined the body, and there are no marks of violence other than those I have described. He died yesterday morning, the cause of death being the fracture of the spine, which in my opinion was caused by the fall. Deceased knew the critical state he was in, as I told him he was mortally injured, and he made the statement to me after I had so informed him. It would have been utterly impossible for him to have got home if he had received the injury at the hands of the soldiers.

Superintendent Wilshere, who was called by request of a juryman, said no report was made to him of the constable having been attacked by soldiers, and he only heard of it accidentally. It was quite probable that he attempted to take the two men into custody as deserters. He would be doing his duty if he did so.

The Coroner said that although at first it seemed that deceased had been ill-treated, the evidence of Dr. Mercer showed that such ill-usage was not serious and did not in any way contribute to his death. Had the soldiers followed him, and had he fallen in endeavouring to escape from them, it would then have been a question whether they would not be liable to a charge of manslaughter.

The jury at once returned a verdict of “Accidental Death”.

It having been stated that the deceased, out of his very moderate pay, contributed towards the support of his parents, the jurymen gave their fees to be transmitted to the old couple.

Folkestone Express 2-8-1884

Monday, July 28^th: Before W. Bateman, J. Fitness and J. Holden Esqs., and Alderman Caister.

Thomas Robins was charged on a warrant with assaulting Henry Wood on the 22^nd inst., and also with using threatening language.

Complainant said he was employed as a bailiff to go to a house in Peter Street to levy a distress for rent. He went at seven o`clock in the morning, and saw the defendant in the street. Defendant asked him to go and have a drink at the Belle Vue Tavern. They went there, and on coming out, as they turned the corner, defendant struck him in the face and made him bleed. At the same time he said “You are a bailiff, and I`ll kill you”. He had not told defendant his business. Defendant was a lodger in the house where he was going to levy. After he struck him, he asked witness to go and have another drink, but he declined, although they went together to the tavern, where defendant washed his face.

A witness named Eliza Keeler said she saw the blow struck, and heard the defendant say “I`ll kill you”.

The Bench fined the defendant 5s. and 20s. costs, or 14 days`, and bound him over in the sum of £5, with one surety in the same amount, to keep the peace for three months.

Folkestone Express 13-11-1886

Fountain Inn, High Street, Folkestone, TO LET, to which a new bar is now being added, making it the most attractive house in the High Street. Also Belle Vue Inn, Belle Vue Street. Apply Hythe Brewery.

Holbein`s Visitors` List 29-5-1889

Inquest

On Thursday evening there were rumours in the town that a horse had bolted down Sandgate Hill and had thrown out of a carriage two ladies, the wives of officers in the Carabiniers. Later in the evening it was stated that one of the ladies was dead, and unfortunately rumour was, in this case, speaking only too truly. But the facts of the case will best be conveyed to our readers by the reproduction of the evidence tendered before the Borough Coroner (J. Minter Esq.) at the inquest, which was held at the Town Hall on Saturday at three o`clock, “to enquire touching the death of Agnes Mary Green”.

The Jury having been sworn and having chosen Mr. Frederick Petts as foreman, the Coroner said that Dr. Charles Lewis, who was a witness, had a most important case to attend, and he (the Coroner), would go out of the ordinary course and take the evidence before the Jury viewed the body.

Dr. Charles Lewis then deposed: I was called shortly before seven on Thursday evening to the residence of the deceased in Darnley Terrace, Sandgate, in consultation with Dr. Chubb, who was in attendance. I found the deceased insensible, and suffering from a fracture of the left side of the skull, about five or six inches in length. There was also a large wound near the right ear. The injuries were such as would be produced by a fall. I remained with deceased until her death. There was nothing that could possibly be done, and she died about 8.45.

The Jury then proceeded to Sandgate to view the body, and on their return to the Town Hall the following additional evidence was given.

William Barr: I am a groom in the employ of Mr. Dixon Green, who is a Lieutenant in the Carabiniers, and resides at 2, Chichester Villas, Sandgate. I identify the body which the jury have seen at that of my late mistress, Agnes Mary Green. On Thursday evening Mrs, Green, in company with the wife of Colonel Dennis, drove a mare in a dog cart to witness the Yeomanry sports in a field off Sandgate Road. Shortly after six o`clock we were returning; Mrs. Green was driving and I was on the back seat. Going down Sandgate Hill the whip was hanging over the reins and touched the mare, causing her to jump forward. I immediately jumped down, intending to get to the mare`s head, but before I could do so she had bolted and was galloping down the hill. I followed as quickly as possible and saw the mare swerve to the offside as if she was intending to pull up at the house, which she evidently knew. When she saw the wall she shot out again, but the wheel of the cart caught the wall and Mrs. Green was thrown out. I saw her fall. The mare galloped on through Sandgate. When I reached the place where Mrs. Green was lying, I found her insensible, and with blood flowing freely from her head and face. Some other men carried her into the house, and I ran off for a doctor. Mrs. Green had been in the habit of riding and driving for a good while. The mare was half-bred. She would not stand a whip, but was otherwise quiet.

Sidney Saunders, landlord of the East Cliff Tavern, said: On Thursday evening I was going across the footpath from the Leas into Sandgate, when I saw a dog cart in which there were two ladies, with a groom on the back seat. They were going down the hill at a gentle trot, when suddenly the mare plunged, but I could not see from what cause. The groom jumped down and rushed to the horse`s head, but the horse had galloped off before he could get to it. I went as fast as I could and saw the horse run over to the offside. The wheel of the cart caught the kerb, and the lady who had been driving was thrown against the wall. The lady was insensible and blood was flowing from her head and mouth. I lifted up her head, got a towel and some water, and washed her mouth out. Someone said that she lived a few doors below, and we then carried her into her house. Dr. Chubb was sent for and soon came.

Samuel Saunders, of the Belle Vue Tavern, and Joseph Whiting, of the Bricklayers` Arms, who were in company with the previous witness, having corroborated his evidence, the Coroner said he thought the jury would have no difficulty in coming to a decision.

A verdict was immediately returned of Accidental Death.

Folkestone Express 1-6-1889

Inquest

On Saturday afternoon an inquest was held at the Town Hall before J. Minter Esq., the Borough Coroner, on the body of Agnes Mary Green, who was killed on Thursday evening by being thrown from a dog cart.

Mr. Charles Lewis, surgeon, said: On Thursday evening, a little before seven o`clock, I was called to attend the deceased at her residence in Darnley Terrace, Sandgate, in consultation with Mr. Chubb, who was in attendance. I found her insensible, and suffering from a fracture of the left side of the skull some four or five inches in length. There was also a large wound near the right ear. She remained insensible until her deat, about an hour and a half after I left. She died from injuries to her head, which were such as would be produced by a fall. There was nothing which could be done to save her. She was evidently sinking when I first saw her.

William Barr, a groom, in the employment of Mr. Dixon Green, lieutenant in the Carabiniers, stationed at Shorncliffe, and residing at 2, Chichester Villas, Sandgate, identified the body viewed by the jury as that of Agnes Mary Green, wife of Lieut. Green, and said on Thursday, in company with the wife of Col. Dennis, she drove a mare in a dog cart to the sports in Sandgate Road. I was in attendance and riding on the back seat. About ten minutes past six in the evening we were returning, and on driving down Sandgate Hill, the deceased being driving, she accidentally hit the mare with the whip, which caused the mare to jump forward. I jumped down to get the mare`s head to steady her. Before I could get there the mare bolted and galloped down the hill. I followed, and saw the mare turn off, as if with the intention of pulling up at the house from which they started. She made for the wall on the off side. The mare saw the wall and shot out again. The cart collided against the kerb, and Mrs. Green was thrown out. I saw her fall between the wall and the wheel. The mare continued on through Sandgate, and on my arrival at the place where deceased laid on the path I noticed that she was insensible and blood was flowing very freely from her head and face. I ran off for the doctor, knowing I could not catch the mare. Deceased had been in the habit of riding and driving the mare for the past eight or nine months. It was half-bred, and would not stand the whip, otherwise she was quiet.

Sidney saunders, a publican, living at East Cliff, said: On Thursday, the 23^rd May, I, with others, was walking across the footpath leading into Sandgate Road, and saw a dog cart, in which were two ladies and a groom. The horse was going at a gentle trot. I saw it make a plunge forward, and the groom get off the back of the trap and rush towards the horse`s head. Before he got up to it the horse had bolted. He then made a grasp at the trap, appeared to stumble, and the horse was gone. I ran as fast as I could. I saw the horse turn towards the kerb on the off side, and as the wheel caught the kerb, one of the ladies was pitched out against the wall. The horse went right away through Sandgate. I found deceased lying on the path, insensible, and blood flowing freely from the head and mouth. I lifted up her head, unfastened her bodice, and procured some water and washed her mouth. Someone came along and said the deceased lived a few doors off, and asked them to carry her indoors. They did so, and Dr. Chubb came. Samuel Saunders and Joseph Whiting were with me.

These two having given corroborative evidence, the jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Folkestone Express 7-3-1891

Wednesday, March 4^th: Before Colonel De Crespigny, W. Wightwick, W.G. Herbert, H.W. Poole and J. Brooke Esqs.

Transfers

The licence of the Bellevue Inn was transferred to Charles Thomas Adams.

Holbein`s Visitors` List 11-3-1891

Wednesday, March 4^th: Before Col. De Crespigny, H.W. Poole, W. Wightwick, J. Brooke and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

The Belle Vue Inn will find a new landlord in Alfred Adams.

Folkestone Chronicle 25-7-1891

Wednesday, July 22^nd: Before Captain Crowe, Alderman Banks, W.G. Herbert and W. Wightwick Esqs.

Alfred Thomas Adams, landlord of the Bellevue Hotel, was summoned for keeping his house open during prohibited hours on the 9^th of July, and pleaded Guilty.

P.S. Harman said he visited the Bellevue Hotel on the night in question in company with P.C. Stannage. Stannage went to the rear of the house, and witness remained at the front. The doors were locked and he knocked, but could obtain no answer. The window of the bar was only frosted half way up and witness looked over the top and saw defendant draw a glass of beer. There were two men and a woman in the bar drinking. He saw several men get up from their seats and go into the passage. Witness was afterwards let in at the bar door and four men immediately rushed from the direction of the back door, defendant following. Witness told them they were fairly caught and thay they had better keep quiet. There were several glasses about containing beer. He told defendant he would have to report the matter, and he replied that he had not drawn anything after eleven. It was half past eleven when witness first visited the house.

Defendant, who has held his license scarcely six months, said he was not aware that it was quite so late.

Supt. Taylor said he had no complaint to make against the house.

Fined £1 and 9s. costs.

Folkestone Express 25-7-1891

Wednesday, July 22^nd: Before Capt. Crowe, Ald. Banks, W. Wichtwick and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Alfred Thomas Adams was summoned for keeping open his house, the Belle Vue Inn, during prohibited hours. He pleaded Guilty.

Sergeant Harman said he saw the defendant serve beer at half past eleven on the 9^th July. In the front bar there were two men and a woman, and in the back room four men, and several glasses containing beer. There was no disturbance, and there were lights all through the house.

Defendant said he was not aware the time was so late. There was no complaint against the house.

He was fined £1 and 9s. costs.

Folkestone Chronicle 1-8-1891

Saturday, July 25^th: Before Alderman Banks, Major H.W. Poole, W.G. Herbert and W. Wightwick Esqs.

Five men named Crowe, Charles Mortleman, Nicholas White, Ely Lea, and Alfred Moore were summoned for being found at the Bellevue Hotel after closing hours on the night of the 9^th of July.

Each of the defendants pleaded Guilty, and, the circumstances having been stated by P.S. Harman, they were each fined 5s. and 9s. costs.

Folkestone Express 1-8-1891

Saturday, July 25^th: Before Ald. Banks, H.W. Poole, W. Wightwick and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Five persons named Mortleman, Crow, Lee, White and Moore were summoned for being found on licensed premises during prohibited hours. They all pleaded Guilty, and said they did not know it was so late. The defendants were found in the Belle Vue Inn on the 9^th inst., and the landlord had been fined for keeping the house open after hours on the occasion.

They were each fined 5s., and 9s. costs.

Folkestone Chronicle 29-8-1891

Wednesday, August 26^th: Before J. Clarke, J. Pledge, J. Holden, W. Wightwick, H.W. Poole and F. Boykett Esqs.

Annual Licensing Sessions

Superintendent Taylor objected to the renewal of the licence of the Bellevue Hotel (Mr. Adams), and also to the renewal of the licence of the Globe Hotel (Mr. Hall). The latter was represented by Mr. F. Hall.

The licenses of both these houses were withheld until the adjournment.

The adjourned Sessions will be held on the 23^rd of September.

Southeastern Gazette 1-9-1891

Licensing Sessions

The annual Licensing Sessions were held on Wednesday, when objections were raised against the renewal of the licences for the Globe Hotel, the Bellevue Hotel. The Bouverie Hotel, and the Tramway Tavern. Mr. Rooke appeared on behalf of the council of the Folkestone Temperance Society, and the whole of the cases were eventually adjourned until Sept. 23.

Folkestone Chronicle 26-9-1891

Wednesday, September 23^rd: Before J. Clarke Esq., Major Poole, J. Holden, W. Wightwick, F. Boykett and J. Pledge Esqs.

Adjourned Licensing Sessions

The Bellevue

Mr. Minter, under instructions from the Folkestone and District Licensed Victuallers` Association, appeared to support Mr. Alfred Thomas Adams`s application for a renewal of the licence of the Bellevue Hotel.

Supt. Taylor said on the 22^nd of July five persons were found on the premises after closing time. Adams was fined £1 and 9s. costs. The other people were also convicted. He had had no complaints since, and the general conduct of the house was good.

The licence was granted with a caution.

Folkestone Express 26-9-1891

Wednesday, September 23rd: Before J. Clark, J. Holden, H.W. Poole, W. Wightwick, F. Boykett and J. Pledge Esqs.

Adjourned Licensing Day

The Belle Vue

Alfred Thomas Adams applied for a renewal of the licence of this house. He had been fined 20s. and costs in July, 1891. Mr. Minter appeared for the applicant.

Superintendent Taylor said four persons were found on the premises after hours. There had been no complaints since or previous, and the general conduct of the house was good.

The licence was renewed.

Folkestone Express 26-12-1891

Wednesday, December 23^rd: Before Aldermen Sherwood, Pledge and Dunk, J. Fitness and E. Ward Esqs.

Iden Pritchard, gardener, was summoned for stealing two heath plants, value 2s., from a greenhouse belonging to George Pilcher. He pleaded Not Guilty.

Prosecutor, a florist, having premises in Dover Road, said defendant had been in his employment as working gardener for more than 18 months. He left a week ago last Saturday. Since defendant left he had missed plants from his premises, and among them were three heaths of the kind produced, from a greenhouse. He missed the heaths on Friday, 18^th. Defendant was in the house on the Wednesday or Thursday previous, saying he wanted to buy some shrubs, but he went away without buying anything. When he missed the plants he gave information to the police. There were nine plants of this sort in the greenhouse. He could swear positively to one of those produced, as it was peculiar in it`s appearance, and he had tried to sell it to a customer a few days ago. They were also of an uncommon size to be flowering so freely. The value was 1s. each.

By defendant: I bought twelve plants of a nurseryman, and sold three. The nurseryman had plenty more of the same sort, and he served the trade. The greenhouses were not kept locked. I have had reasons to suspect you have taken goods. You were formerly a very useful man, but latterly you have given way to drink and been careless. I do not remember having given you a good recommendation lately.

Alice Maud Mary Jordan, of the Red Cow Inn, said the defendant went to her mother`s house on Thursday with Christmas Trees and two plants. She recognised one of the heaths. Defendant asked her to buy it, and she did, paying 9d. for it. She knew defendant as a customer.

Mary Ann Maple, wife of Thomas Maple, of the Honest Lawyer, Belle Vue Street, said the defendant went to that house with one plant on Thursday evening. He asked 1s. for it, and she bought it of him for 6d. She knew him as a customer.

William Jenner, a lad in the service of the prosecutor, said he saw the defendant on Wednesday evening at ten minutes to ten, outside the garden gate in Dover Road, walking to and from.

Thomas Alfred Tutt, another lad in the prosecutor`s employ, said he saw the defendant about ten o`clock on Wednesday evening go into the Belle Vue with a Christmas tree in his hand. Witness saw him again on Thursday evening near St. John Street with a plant like those produced in his hand.

Prosecutor was re-called, and said the garden was approached by gates. The larger one was locked, but not the smaller one. Mr. Wilson had a right of way to his premises there. The greenhouse was not fastened in any way.

Defendant said he bought the plants from a hawker, but did not know his name.

The Bench considered the case proved, and fined defendant 10s., 2s. the value of the plants, and 18s. costs, or 14 days` hard labour, telling him he was liable to be imprisoned for six months.

The Bench recommended Mr. Pilcher to keep his premises locked in future.

Folkestone Chronicle 3-6-1893

Saturday, May 27^th: Before Colonel De Crespigny, Major H.W. Poole, and Mr. Wightwick.

The licence of the Belle Vue Inn was transferred to Mr. Thomas Nolan.

Folkestone Express 3-6-1893

Saturday, May 27^th: Before Col. De Crespigny, H.W. Poole, and W. Wightwick Esqs.

The licence of the Belle Vue Inn was transferred to Mr. Thomas Nolan.

Folkestone Chronicle 8-8-1896

Saturday, August 1^st: Before The Mayor, General Gwyn, Alderman Banks, and Messrs. W.G. Herbert, W. Wightwick, H.D. Stock, and C.J.Pursey.

The licence of the Belle Vue Inn was provisionally transferred to Mr. Hobson.

Folkestone Express 8-8-1896

Saturday, August 1^st: Before The Mayor, General Gwyn, Alderman Banks, and W.G. Herbert, W. Wightwick, H.D. Stock, and C.J. Pursey Esqs.

The licence of the Belle Vue Inn was provisionally transferred to Mr. Hobson.

Folkestone Chronicle 26-9-1896

Wednesday, September 23^rd: Before Messrs. J. Fitness, W.G. Herbert, H.D. Stock, and J. Pledge.

Mr. Hobson was granted the transfer of the licence of the Bellevue Hotel.

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