Black Bull, Canterbury Road 1742 - Present

The Black Bull c1870. Credit Eamonn Rooney

Black Bull, Date unknown. Photo kindly supplied by Martin Easdown

The Black Bull, 1978 

The Black Bull: 12th March 2012 Temporarily closed, but now re-opened

 

 

Black Bull, 1920s. Credit Paul Taylor (from http://www.dover-kent.com/Black-Bull-Folkestone.html)

 

 

Black Bull, 1933 (from http://www.dover-kent.com/Black-Bull-Folkestone.html)

Black Bull, date unknown. Credit Paul Taylor. (from http://www.dover-kent.com/Black-Bull-Folkestone.html)

 

 

Licensees

John Stanley Listed 1782
Mrs. Stanley 1810
Mrs. Page? 1812

William Cramp 1814

John Wyatt Listed 1832-33

William Harrison Listed 1837-39 To Lord Nelson

Thomas Spicer c 1842 1850 Later Bird In The Hand

Thomas Eves 1850 1855

Charles Daniels 1855 1857

John Harrison 1857 1864 From Earl Grey

Robert Fisher 1864 1879

George Finn 1879 1880

Alfred Keeler 1880 1881

William Dray 1881 1881 (1881 Census)

James Quested Potts 1881 1882

Ernesto Hand 1882 1884

Lucy Aitken 1884 1885 To Bouverie Hotel

John Errington 1885 1887

George Sadler 1887 1895

Albert Pollard 1895 1899 From Bouverie Hotel, To Castle Inn

William Warne 1899 1905

Thomas Powell 1907 1907

Walter Cavey 1907 1913

Amelia Cavey 1913 1922

Capt. Albert Springate 1922 1924

William Wilson 1924 1925

William "Jack" Bennett 1925 1929

Frederick Bray 1929 1931

Eric Anderson 1931 1933 To Guildhall Tavern

Reginald Barber 1933 1934

William Jackson 1934 1937

Arthur Lacey 1937 1942

Christopher Bew 1942 1947

Cyril Jones 1947 1951

Albert Bundy 1951 1958

Peter Cash 1958 1958

Thomas Wilson 1958 1959

Nelson Pettit 1959 1961

Ernest Mansell 1961 1966

William Scarbrow 1966 1966

Alan Ellis 1966 1968

George Jarvis 1968 1976

Brian Laker 1976 1979

Harry Hopper 1979 1981

David McAllister and David Griffiths 1981 1983

Patrick Gill and David Griffiths 1983 1985

David Munn and Arthur Beedon 1985 1986

Arthur Beedon 1986 1987

Maureen Coles and Edward Clark 1987 1990

Maureen Coles and Simon Blyth 1991 1992

George Gartshore and Simon Blyth 1992 1994

George Gartshore and Geoffrey Griffiths 1994 1995

Geoffrey Griffiths, Jamie Ridler and Alison Stubberfield 1995 1996

Geoffrey Griffiths, Memish Museyin and Rebecca Snelling 1996 1997

Maureen Coles 1997 2000 To Morehall

Elizabeth Stanley 2000 2000 To Morehall

Terence Arthurs 2000 2000

Brendan Whelan 2001 2004 + 

 

Kentish Chronicle 2-3-1810 

Death: On Monday, Feb. 26, at Folkestone, Mrs. Standley, of the Black Bull public house, aged 65 years.

Note: This does not appear in More Bastions. May be Stanley

Kentish Gazette 6-3-1810

Obituary

Feb. 26, at Folkestone, aged 65, Mrs. Standley, of the Black Bull public house.

Note: This does not appear in More Bastions. May be Stanley.

 

Kentish Gazette 21-4-1812

Died: April 19^th, Mrs. Page, widow, of the Black Bull, Folkestone.

Note: Not mentioned in More Bastions

Kentish Chronicle 24-4-1812 

Died: April 19^th, Mrs. Page, widow, of the Black Bull, Folkestone, aged 66 years.

Note: Not mentioned in More Bastions 

Kentish Gazette 14-10-1814 

To Brewers and others; To be sold by private contract; A long and good-established Messuage or Tenement or Public House, known by the sign of the Black Bull, with convenient stables, buildings, yard and garden thereto belonging, situate and being at a certain place called the Forstall, about a quarter of a mile from the town of Folkestone, on the turnpike road leading to Canterbury, desirably situate for business, and at a convenient distance from the town, and now in the occupation of William Cramp, the proprietor.

These premises are held under a lease from the Earl of Radnor, of which twenty-eight years are unexpired, at the small annual rent of fourteen shillings.

For further particulars enquire of Mr. Cramp.

Note: Not Listed in More Bastions

Kentish Mercury 26-9-1840 

On Saturday evening last four men, working on the railroad, illtreated the landlord of the Black Bull, near this town, and committed an outrage by breaking his furniture, and striking those who were at the house. Two were taken before Wm. Deedes Esq., the County Magistrate, and fined £3 11s., including damages and court fees. The others made their escape.

Maidstone Gazette 9-9-1851

Annual Licensing Day; Before R. Hart Esq., Mayor, D. Major, W. Bateman and W. Major Esqs.

There were three applications for new licenses, viz., James Gaby Breach for a license to sell spirits &c., at the refreshment room on the harbour; Thomas Spicer for the Two Bells, Bridge Street, Canterbury Road; Thos. Taylor for the Darlington Arms, Shellons Lane.

Mr. Eves, of the Black Bull, attended, and objected to a license being granted to Thomas Spicer as unnecessary and injurious to his business; he handed in a memorial signed by the incumbent, churchwardens, and Lord Radnor`s agent (Mr. Hinton) &c.

The Magistrates having consulted, the Mayor, in giving their decision, stated that it had been the invariable custom here to grant licenses to all applicants, without reference to the necessity for them, a course he objected to, but as the majority of the Magistrates present were in favour of the applicant his license would be granted, as well as the other two.

All the old licenses were granted, except to Robert Baker, Cooper`s Arms; George Norris, Engine Inn; and Charles Hill, Radnor Inn. The sessions were adjourned for a fortnight, when the renewal of their licenses will be reconsidered by the Magistrates.

Note: Robert Baker, Coopers Arms previously unknown.

Canterbury Journal 13-9-1851

At the Annual Licensing Day there were three applications for new licenses, viz., James Gaby Breach for a license to sell spirits &c., at the refreshment room on the harbour; Thomas Spicer for the Two Bells, Bridge Street, Canterbury Road; Thos. Taylor for the Darlington Arms, Shellons Lane. Mr. Eves, of the Black Bull, attended, and objected to a license being granted to Thomas Spicer as unnecessary and injurious to his business; he handed in a memorial signed by the incumbent, churchwardens, and Lord Radnor`s agent (Mr. Hinton) &c.

The Magistrates having consulted, the Mayor, in giving their decision, stated that it had been the invariable custom here to grant licenses to all applicants, without reference to the necessity for them, a course he objected to, but as the majority of the Magistrates present were in favour of the applicant his license would be granted, as well as the other two.

All the old licenses were granted, except to Robert Baker, Cooper`s Arms; George Norris, Engine Inn; and Charles Hill, Radnor Inn. The sessions were adjourned for a fortnight, when the renewal of their licenses will be reconsidered by the Magistrates.

Note: Robert Baker, Coopers Arms previously unknown.

Maidstone Gazette 30-12-1851

Petty Sessions, Saturday; Before W. Major Esq.

John Newman, Walter Banks, Edward Jordan and Harriet Sackree were charged with having stolen two £10 notes, 2 sovereigns, 1 half sovereign, and some silver, from the person of William Harrison, of Ashford, engineer. After hearing the evidence of the prosecutor and a witness named Henry Banks, the prisoners were transferred to Hythe, the offence being committed at the Black Bull public house, out of the junction of the boro` magistrates.

Canterbury Journal 3-1-1852

John Newman, Walter Banks, Edward Jordan and Harriet Sackree were charged before W. Major Esq., on Saturday last, with having stolen two ten pound notes, 2 sovereigns, 1 half sovereign, and some silver, from the person of William Harrison, of Ashford, engineer. After hearing the evidence of the prosecutor and a witness named Henry Banks, the prisoners were transferred to Hythe, the offence being committed at the Black Bull public house, out of the junction of the borough magistrates.

Dover Chronicle 3-1-1852

Petty Sessions, Saturday: Before W. Major Esq.

John Newman, Walter Banks, Edward Jordan and Harriet Sackree were charged before W. Major Esq., on Saturday last, with having stolen two £10 notes, 2 sovereigns, 1 half sovereign, and some silver, from the person of William Harrison, of Ashford, engineer. After hearing the evidence of the prosecutor and a witness named Henry Banks, the prisoners were transferred to Hythe, the offence being committed at the Black Bull public house, out of the junction of the borough magistrates.

Dover Telegraph 3-1-1852

John Newman, Walter Banks, Edward Jordan and Harriet Sackree were charged before W. Major Esq., on Saturday last, with having stolen two £10 notes, 2 sovereigns, 1 half sovereign, and some silver, from the person of William Harrison, of Ashford, engineer. After hearing the evidence of the prosecutor and a witness named Henry Banks, the prisoners were transferred to Hythe, the offence being committed at the Black Bull public house, out of the junction of the borough magistrates.

Southeastern Gazette 11-7-1854

County Court: Before C. Harwood Esq.

Eves v Rice: This was a claim for beer supplied by the plaintiff, who keeps the Black Bull public house, near Folkestone. Defendant is a ganger at Mr. Regis`s brickyard, and the beer was supplied to the men under his control. From the evidence of the plaintiff it appeared that each time the beer was fetched a book was sent, and the quantity inserted in it, defendant having first arranged with the plaintiff for the supply.

Defendant said he had never seen a book, never made any arrangement with plaintiff, and knew nothing about it.

Plaintiff said defendant`s son fetched the beer, and the defendant received the money on Saturdays from the men and kept it. Defendant denied this also.

Plaintiff was asked by the Judge if he had a witness to prove the serving of the beer; he said he served a portion himself, and could produce his daughter, but his house was nearly a mile off.

His Honour told defendant it was fortunate for him that the plaintiff`s daughter was not produced, or he should have committed him for perjury. The amount was ordered to be paid.

Folkestone Chronicle 13-10-1855

Tuesday October 9^th :- Present W. Major Esq., G. Kennicott Esq., and J. Kelcey Esq.

The Adjourned General Licencing Meeting was held this day, when the following licence was granted: Thomas Eves, Black Bull

Folkestone Chronicle 19-12-1857

Wednesday December 16^th:- Before R. W. Boarer esq., and G. Kennicott esq.

Special Sessions for transferring licences.

The licence of the Black Bull was transferred from Charles Daniels to John Harrison.

Southeastern Gazette 22-12-1857

Wednesday: Before R.W. Boarer and G. Kennicott Esqs.

The licence of the Black Bull was transferred from Charles Daniels to John Harrison. 

Kentish Gazette 22-12-1857 

At the special sessions for transferring licences on Wednesday, the license of the Black Bull was transferred from Charles Daniels to John Harrison 

Kentish Gazette 24-8-1858 

At the police court on Wednesday (before the Mayor, James Kelcey, Esq., and Gilbert Kennicott, Esq.), Peter McGowan was brought up on remand charged with obtaining money under false pretences from Henry Swain, landlord of the Foresters’ Arms,  Sbellons Lane. Prisoner was undefended. From the evidence it appeared the prisoner went to the house to lodge on the Saturday previous, representing himself as a captain of the “Elizabeth and Ann," of Carlisle. He remained there until the following Monday morning, and borrowed money under the pretence of having a sum of money in the Folkestone bank, at the same time showing Mr. Swain a cheque on that bank. Mr. Swain accompanied prisoner to the bank on the Monday morning, when he made an excuse and said his money had been sent to Dover in mistake. Mr. Swain then went with prisoner to the railway station, but missing the train, they went into the Swan public house for refreshment, when prisoner contrived to give Mr. Swain the slip. No more was seen of the prisoner until the following Wednesday morning, when Mr. Wells, of the Star, at Newington, came to Folkestone in search of the so-called “captain," he having previously paid Mr. Wells a visit, staying some days at his house, and managing to obtain from him the sum of £3, I under tbe pretence of having money in the Ashford bank.

The two victims went in company to the Black Bull, and there found prisoner trying on the same “artful dodge” with the landlord of that house. He was afterwards taken into custody, and remanded until this day. Prisoner had nothing to say in his defence, and was fully committed for trial at the next quarter sessions. From communications since received by the superintendent of police it appears the prisoner has been to Sbeerness and Boughton, where be obtained from various persons sums of money, amounting in the whole to about £10, by tbe same artful means. He had also been to Ashford and Canterbury, where he bad not only obtained money, but in one instance a suit of clothes. From papers found on him it would appear prisoner had been a time-keeper on the Silloth harbour and dock works, Car­lisle, for a period of two yean. He bad also a contract in his possession for the purchase of a large quantity of oak timber from Mr. George Austen, of Canterbury; together with a letter from that gentleman, accompanying a copy of the agreement for prisoner's signature.

Dover Chronicle 18-6-1859

County Court, Wednesday: Before C. Harwood Esq.

John Harrison v Edward Baker: Mr. John Minter, who appeared for the plaintiff, said the plaintiff was an innkeeper residing in Folkestone, and the defendant lived at Hythe; a Mrs. Baker came to the plaintiff`s house in October, 1857, and engaged for board and lodging for herself; at the end of the first week she paid the bill, and then said that if plaintiff would go to Hythe and see her uncle, he would come to some arrangement for the future payments. He went, and saw her uncle, who agreed that he was to be paid a reasonable amount. Mrs. Baker remained from October 18^th, 1857 to February 14^th, 1858, and the account, amounting to £9 15s. 9d. was delivered to Mr. Baker, who some time after paid £5 on account, leaving the balance now sued for.

Mr. John Harrison, sworn and examined, said he kept the Black Bull. Mrs. Baker came there in 1857, and when she left he sent the bill to the defendant, at Hythe, who told him to come in a few weeks and he would pay him. The defendant afterwards came to his house and paid him £5 on account, and this was on 31^st July, 1858; the bill was delivered two or three months before. When the above-mentioned sum was paid, he promised the remainder in a month or six weeks. He had applied personally and by letter several times since for the balance, and always saw the defendant when he went to Hythe. He gave an unstamped receipt for the £5, for which defendant threatened to prosecute. H consulted an attorney, and sent a stamped receipt.

By the Judge: Did not give the receipt to Mrs. Baker. No one was present when the agreement was made. Mrs. Baker told him her uncle had money of hers; he went to Hythe to enquire if this was correct, and found it to be so.

Defendant, examined, said: He might have had £40 in hand belonging to his niece. At the time he paid the £5, he gave her £7 more. He never promised to pay the plaintiff. When Mrs. Baker came to him for money to pay the plaintiff, he told her he would pay him in her presence. The bill was not sent in his name. He had never threatened to prosecute.

The plaintiff was non-suited, with permission to renew the summons at the Hythe court, and to produce Mrs. Baker as witness.

Folkestone Chronicle 18-6-1859

County Court

Wednesday June 15^th:- Before C. Harwood Esq., County Judge

Harrison v Baker. – An action to recover £4 15s. 6d. Balance of an account. Mr. John Minter appeared for the plaintiff, who said he was an innkeeper residing at Folkestone. The defendant lived at Hythe. In October, 1857, a Mrs. Baker came to the plaintiff`s house, and engaged for board and lodging. She paid the bill at the end of the first week, and then said, that if she went to her uncle (the defendant), at Hythe, he would engage to see him paid for the future. He went, and saw the uncle, who promised to pay a reasonable amount, say about 10s per week. Mrs. Baker remained with plaintiff from 18^th October, 1857, to 14^th February, 1858; she then left. The bill amounting to £9 15s. 6d. Was sent in, and the defendant paid £5 on account, leaving the balance unpaid.

John Harrison, sworn, said, I keep the Black Bull. In 1857 Mrs. Baker came to me for board and lodging, she paid me the first week and then referred me to her uncle at Hythe. I gave the bill to Mr. Baker (the defendant), at Hythe, who said if I came again in a few weeks he would pay me. On the 31^st July, 1858, I received £5 on account from Mr. Baker. It was paid me at my residence, - the bill had been sent in three months before. When Baker paid me the £5 he promised to pay me the remainder in a month or six weeks. I have since applied several times for the balance, sometimes I went to Hythe, and sometimes wrote. The receipt I gave to defendant was not stamped, and he threatened to prosecute me. I consulted an attorney, and by his advice forwarded a stamped receipt.

By his Honour – I did not give the receipt to Mrs. Baker – no other person was present when the agreement was made, - she told me her uncle had money of hers. I went to Hythe to enquire if it was correct, and found it to be so.

Defendant, on being examined, said he might have had £40 in his hands belonging to Mrs. Baker. At the time the £5 was paid, he gave her £12 in all – he had never promised to pay the balance. When she came to him for the money, he told her he would pay the amount to plaintiff in her presence; he had never received a bill from the plaintiff, neither had he threatened to prosecute him for the unstamped receipt; in fact the receipt was not given to him, but to Mrs. Baker, and he had not received a stamped receipt.

The plaintiff was non-suited, but had permission to renew the summons at the Hythe court, and to procure Mrs. Baker as witness.

Kentish Gazette 21-6-1859

Folkestone County Court (Before C. Harwood, Esq., Judge.)

The monthly sitting of this Court was held on the 15th inst. The cases, most of which were from Sandgate, were of the ordinary character, the only one having any particular interest being;

John Harrison v Edward Baker - Mr. John Minter, who appeared for the plaintiff, said the plaintiff was an innkeeper residing in Folkestone, and the defendant lived at Hythe; a Mrs. Baker came to the plaintiff’s house in October, 1857, and engaged for board and lodging for herself; at the end of the first week she paid the bill, and then said that if plaintiff would go to Hythe and see her uncle, he would come to some agreement for the future payments. He went and saw her uncle, who agreed to see that he was paid a reasonable amount. Mrs. Baker remained from October 18th, 1857, to February 14th, 1858, and the account, amounting to £9 15s. 9d., was delivered to Mr. Baker, who some time after paid £5 on account, leaving the balance now sued for.

The plaintiff was nonsuited, with permission to renew the summons at the Hythe Court, and to produce Mrs Baker as witness.

Kentish Express 25-6-1859 

County Court, Wednesday: Before C. Harwood Esq.

John Harrison v Edward Baker: Mr. John Minter, who appeared for the plaintiff, said the plaintiff was an innkeeper residing in Folkestone, and the defendant lived at Hythe; a Mrs. Baker came to the plaintiff`s house in October, 1857, and engaged for board and lodging for herself; at the end of the first week she paid the bill, and then said that if plaintiff would go to Hythe and see her uncle, he would come to some arrangement for the future payments. He went, and saw her uncle, who agreed to see that he was paid a reasonable amount. Mrs. Baker remained from October 18^th, 1857 to February 14^th, 1858, and the account, amounting to £9 15s. 9d. was delivered to Mr. Baker, who some time after paid £5 on account, leaving the balance now sued for.

The defendant denied that he had ever promised to pay the money to plaintiff, though he admitted having money to the amount of £40 belonging to her in his hands.

In the absence of Mrs. Baker, His Honour nonsuited the plaintiff, with permission to renew the summons in the Hythe Court, and produce Mrs. Baker`s testimony.

Kentish Gazette 7-5-1861

A great number of gypsies were in Folkestone on Saturday week, a half-yearly meeting of some of the tribe being, we believe, held that morning at the Black Bull on the Canterbury Road. In the afternoon they dispersed among the public houses in certain parts of the town, where they kept up an uproarious jollification till a late hour, requiring the vigilant observation of the police officers, who managed, however, to keep the disturbances out of the streets, except in one case.

Dover Express 27-7-1861 

An inquest was held at the Black Bull public house on Saturday, before Silvester Eastes Esq., on the body of John Jones, a travelling umbrella mender, who was found that morning hanging, and quite dead, in the cart-house of Mr. Hunt Jeffrey, Walton. The jury viewed the body, and then heard the evidence of Amelia Jones, the widow, who said that her husband was about 30 years of age. She had been married to him seven years, and they had three children. He had had good health up to nine days since, when he complained of a pain in his head, and he went into the Elham Union last Saturday. She heard nothing more of him until yesterday, when she went there and enquired for him, and he came to her. He said he could not make himself happy, and he should make away with himself if he remained there. Witness asked permission for him to leave, which was given, and he came away with her. At the railway arch near Mr. Kingsnorth`s they separated, she giving him her last shilling to go to Dover by the train, he wanting to go into the Dover Union, where she herself was going that day (Saturday). That was at 3 or 4 o`clock in the afternoon. In the evening, about 9 o`clock, she came up to the Lodge of Walton Farm, where they sometimes slept, not expecting to see him, but when she opened the door he was sitting there. He said he had not been to Dover, and he gave her the shilling. They went to bed together. The three children were there. At four o`clock that morning (Saturday) the policeman came to her and awoke herm and enquired if her husband was gone. Up to that time she did not know but that he was there. Her husband was a native of Farnham, in Surrey, but she knew nothing of his relations. She and her husband had never quarrelled since they had married.

P.C. Sharp said that at four o`clock that morning he was passing Mr. Jeffrey`s cart lodge, when he saw the deceased hanging from a ladder by his handkerchief, his feet being about 12 inches from the ground. Witness had seen him about 10 o`clock the previous night lying beside his wife and three children in the lodge on the other side of the yard. When he found the body he went and awoke the wife, who said she did not know where her husband was. The body was cold.

Verdict, “Temporary Insanity.”

The coroner and the greater number of the jury then made a subscription for the poor widow.

Folkestone Chronicle 27-7-1861

Coroner`s Inquest

On Sunday last, an inquest was holden at the Black Bull Inn, before S. Eastes Esq., coroner, on the body of a travelling man, named John Jones, who had destroyed himself that morning at Walton Farm. The jury, having been sworn, proceeded to view the body, which lay in a cart lodge at the above farm. The body was fully dressed and had, loosely tied around the neck, a red handkerchief, with which the shocking deed had been perpetrated.

The first witness examined was Amelia Jones, a young woman with a child in her arms, who deposed she was the wife of the deceased, whose body she identified as that of her husband. He was an umbrella mender, and was about 30 years of age. Witness had been married to him about 7 years, and had three children alive. Her husband had good health generally, until about nine days ago, when he complained of a pain in his head. Deceased was a very sober, steady man. He was obliged to go to the Elham Union, on account of his illness. He went there on Saturday last. Witness heard nothing of him until Friday the 19^th, when she went to the union, and he discharged himself, and came part of the way to Folkestone with her. They separated on the road and witness gave him a shilling to pay his railway fare to Dover, as he expressed a wish to go into the union house there. Before they left the union, deceased said he was not happy there, and if he stayed there he should make off with himself. When they parted, witness came to one of Mr. Jeffery`s lodges, and when she got there, to her surprise, she found her husband, who, it appeared, had not gone to Dover. He returned witness the shilling, and after a while they lay down together with the children to sleep. Early in the morning a policeman came into the lodge and woke witness, and asked where her husband was. She had not then missed him. She knew of nothing to trouble him, except the illness, and did not know if any of his relatives had ever destroyed themselves.

Richard Sharp, a police constable, deposed to finding the body hanging by the neck to a ladder, that morning about 4 o`clock. The body was quite cold and stiff. Had seen him on the previous night about 10 o`clock, lying in the lodge with his wife and children. On finding the body, witness went and woke the woman in the lodge, and she knew nothing about her husband having left her during the night.

This being the whole of the evidence, the Coroner briefly summed up, and the jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict that the deceased destroyed himself whilst in a state of temporary insanity.

Kentish Express 27-7-1861

An inquest was held at the Black Bull public house on Saturday, the 20^th inst., before Silvester Eastes Esq., on the body of John Jones, a travelling umbrella mender, who was found that morning hanging, and quite dead, in the cart-house of Mr. Hunt Jeffrey, Walton. The jury viewed the body, and then heard the evidence of Amelia Jones, the widow, who said that her husband was about 30 years of age. She had been married to him seven years, and they had three children. He had had good health up to nine days since, when he complained of a pain in his head, and he went into the Elham Union last Saturday. She heard nothing more of him until yesterday, when she went there and enquired for him, and he came to her. He said he could not make himself happy, and he should make away with himself if he remained there. Witness asked permission for him to leave, which was given, and he came away with her. At the railway arch near Mr. Kingsnorth`s they separated, she giving him her last shilling to go to Dover by the train, he wanting to go into the Dover Union, where she herself was going that day (Saturday). That was at 3 or 4 o`clock in the afternoon. In the evening, about 9 o`clock, she came up to the Lodge of Walton Farm, where they sometimes slept, not expecting to see him, but when she opened the door he was sitting there. He said he had not been to Dover, and he gave her the shilling. They went to bed together. The three children were there. At four o`clock that morning (Saturday) the policeman came to her and awoke herm and enquired if her husband was gone. Up to that time she did not know but that he was there. Her husband was a native of Farnham, in Surrey, but she knew nothing of his relations. She and her husband had never quarrelled since they had married.

P.C. Sharp said that at four o`clock that morning he was passing Mr. Jeffrey`s cart lodge, when he saw the deceased hanging from a ladder by his handkerchief, his feet being about 12 inches from the ground. Witness had seen him about 10 o`clock the previous night lying beside his wife and three children in the lodge on the other side of the yard. When he found the body he went and awoke the wife, who said she did not know where her husband was. The body was cold.

Verdict, “Temporary Insanity.” The coroner and the greater part of the jury then made a subscription for the poor widow.

Folkestone Chronicle 8-7-1865

Quarter Sessions

Tuesday July 4^th:- Before J.J. Lonsdale

Elizabeth Field was placed in the dock charged with stealing one silver watch from the person of Edward Chittenden, of Folkestone, on the 30^th June last, to which she pleaded Not Guilty.

Edward Chittenden, sworn, deposed that he was a waggoner in the emply of Mr. H. Jeffery, of Coombe. Recollected last Friday night he was at the Black Bull Fair between 10 and 11 o`clock. He missed his watch, and old fashioned double-cased silver one. Had it a few minutes before, as he took it out of his fob to see what time it was, but could not, because it was dark. Would swear he put it back safe in his pocket. He then went into the tap room – was quite sober. Directly he got into the room, prisoner began pulling him about – there were several other persons there. She asked him to pay her. Told her to go away – did not want to do anything with her. Witness then went away to the skittle alley, prisoner following him. Prisoner then ran away, and prisoner, feeling for his watch, found it was gone. Had not seen him since. He then went for a constable, and the going into the tap room again half an hour after, saw prisoner there. Pointed her out to the constable as the woman who had stolen his watch. Prisoner said she had never seen witness before, nor had she got his watch.

P.C. Grove, sworn, said: I recollect last Friday night. Saw prisoner in the tap room of the Black Bull. In consequence of information received from prosecutor I took her into custody and charged her with stealing his watch. She said she had never seen the man or the watch before; she was selling nuts and oranges. On going down Foord Lane with prisoner in custody, when about 60 yards from the house, I was pushed into the hedge by about 7 or 8 roughs and the prisoner was rescued before I could recover myself. Had not observed them following me; it was very dark and rainy. Had not seen prisoner before; saw her again on Saturday evening at the Radnor Inn, and took her in custody to the Station. Had no doubt prisoner was the same woman. I charged her again with stealing the watch, and she made no reply. I was in company with P.C. Grover. Prosecutor was not with us then. Recognised her by her features, and a white jacket she had on. The watch has not since been found.

The jury retired, and in a few minutes returned into court a few minutes later with a verdict of Guilty.

The jury were then re-sword, and the same prisoner was charged with stealing a leather purse containing £1 8s 6d from the person of Thomas Gilbert, on the 30^th June last, at Folkestone. Prisoner pleaded Not Guilty.

Thomas Gilbert, sworn, said: I am a labourer. Recollect last Friday night – was at the Black Bull Fair. I had a leather purse with about 30s in my left hand trousers pocket. Had it out just before I missed it, to pay for some beer I and a few friends were having. We were outside the house. I was quite sober. Was waiting to get into the house to go to bed – I was lodging there. Prisoner came up and hadled me about. I told her to keep off. I had my hand on my purse then, but missed it directly after she had slipped off. Will swear prisoner is the same woman. I gave information to P.C. Grover. Next saw her in the tap room, but she had thrown off her bonnet and shawl. About ten minutes after she put them on again, and I immediately recognised her. P.C. Grover then took her into custody.

P.C. Grover, sworn, said that: Prosecutor came to me last Friday night about 10.30 and said “I`ve lost a purse and some money”. He could not tell who had robbed him. I said “Then I can`t render you any assistance”. About half an hour after, I heard of the watch robbery, and apprehended prisoner for that. Did not see Gilbert in the tap room then. Saw him outside afterwards.  He then said “That is the woman that robbed me”. She had on a white jacket with large sleeves. Saw her bonnet and shawl afterwards at the station house. Did not search her, as we are not allowed to search a female.

The jury returned a verdict of Guilty, and prisoner was sentenced to 6 months lard labour in each case, the second 6 months at the termination of the first.

Folkestone Observer 8-7-1865

Monday July 3^rd: Before Captain Kennicott R.N., Captain Leith R.V. and J. Tolputt Esq.

Elizabeth Field, a woman scantily clad, was charged with having stolen one silver watch, value 30s., the property of Edward Chittenden, on June 30^th.

Edward Chittenden, a waggoner in the employ of Mr. Jeffery, of Coolinge, said on Friday night last he was at Folkestone fair, and was in the Black Bull skittle alley between ten and eleven o`clock. While there the prisoner went to him and began to pull him about, and he told her to go away. She went away, but returned again in less than two minutes and began to pull him about again, and then went away again. Directly she had gone he missed his watch, and went and told police constable Groves about it. They looked for the woman and found her in the tap room of the Black Bull public house. As he was going into the tap room of the public house, just before he went into the skittle alley, he knew that his watch was safe, for he pulled it out of his pocket to see what the time was. It was an old-fashioned silver case watch, and it`s value was 30s.

Police constable Groves (7) said he was on duty outside the Black Bull public house about eleven o`clock on Friday night when the prosecutor came to him and said he had been robbed of his watch, and that he could point out the woman who had taken it. He went with prosecutor into the tap room of the Black Bull public house, where prosecutor pointed out the prisoner to him, and he took her into custody. In answer to the charge prisoner said she had neither seen the watch nor the man, but was inside the tap room selling nuts and oranges. Prosecutor said he was sure the prisoner was the woman who robbed him. As he was taking her to the police station, and had proceeded about 30 rods from the Black Bull, six or eight men rushed at him, knocked him into the hedge, and the prisoner escaped. From information received he went to the Radnor Arms about a quarter past six on Saturday evening, found the prisoner there, and took her into custody.

The prisoner was further charged with stealing a purse containing about 30s. from the person of Thomas Gilbert, at the same place, on the same night.

Thomas Gilbert said he lodged at the Black Bull public house and was robbed of about 30s. on Friday night. He saw the prisoner a little before ten o`clock, when she behaved as though she knew him intimately. She put her hand into his pocket, and directly after he missed his money. It was in a purse which contained two half sovereigns, and about 10s. worth of silver. He felt it in his pocket, with his hand on it at the time the prisoner was talking to him. The prisoner ran into the house, and hastily threw off her shawl and bonnet, so that he had some difficulty in recognising her, but he had no doubt she was the same woman. He gave information to the police of his loss.

P.C. Groves said he was on duty about half past ten o`clock on Tuesday night, outside the Black Bull, when the prosecutor came up to him and said he had lost his purse and money. He apprehended the prisoner about 11-30 in the tap room of the Black Bull, and at the station house she was charged with stealing the money, but she made no reply.

Prisoner was committed to take her trial at the Quarter Sessions.

Quarter Sessions

Tuesday July 4^th:- Before J.J. Lonsdale

Elizabeth Field was indicted for stealing one silver watch from the person of Edward Chittenden at Folkestone fair on Friday 30^th ult.

Edward Chittenden, a waggoner in the employ of Mr. Jeffery of Coolinge, gave the same evidence as before the magistrates on Monday. In answer to the Recorder the prosecutor said he was sober when he went into the Black Bull public house. The woman first pulled him about in the tap room and then followed him into the skittle alley and did so again, and afterwards ran away. He then thought about his watch, and on feeling for it, found it was gone. The skittle alley was quite dark, and he went there to look about (laughter), but did not encourage the woman to follow him in. He gave information to police constable Groves immediately after he discovered his loss, and when they found the woman in the tap room, she said she had never seen him before. His watch was fastened round his neck by a guard of string and he believed it had been cut. It had never been dropped off the string.

Police constable Groves (7) repeated the evidence given before the magistrates. With respect to the attack in Foord Lane he said he heard no-one following him after he had taken the prisoner into custody, and did not notice that they were following him. They came from behind him suddenly and pushed him off his legs into the hedge, and before he could recover himself the men and the prisoner had gone away. He was sure the prisoner was the same person. When he took her into custody at the Black Bull tap room there was but one candle burning in the room, and the woman was sitting right away from it. When he found her at the Radnor public house, constable Groves pointed her out, and he also recognised her by her dress and features – principally by the white jacket which she wore. He did not know that the watch had been found.

Prisoner said she was quite innocent of the charge, and that she had had a sprained ankle for two months and could not run. She said she came from Canterbury and had been in Folkestone for nine weeks, during which time she had been for one fortnight in Elham Union with her sprained ankle.

The Recorder summed up and the jury, after retiring for a short time, found the prisoner guilty.

The Recorder reserved the sentence.

Prisoner was the further charged with having stolen from the person of Thomas Gilbert a purse containing £1 8s. 6d. on Friday the 30^th ult.

Thomas Gilbert said he was a labourer, and lodged at the Black Bull public house. He recollected Friday night, when he had about 30s. in a purse in his left hand pocket. He pulled out his purse to pay for some beer half an hour before he lost it. At that time he was just outside the door of the Black Bull public house. The prisoner was standing near. He was sober, and had only a share in a pot of beer, and another half pint during the day. After paying for the beer he put his purse back into his pocket. It contained three or four half crowns, a two shilling piece, a shilling, and sixpence. He was waiting to get into the house, in the passage of which was a crowd of people, when a woman came up to him and began to pull him about. He kept his hand on his purse in his pocket for some time, till he supposed he got a little off his guard and took it out. Directly after the woman slipped away and he missed his purse. This was about three rods from the public house and it was rather dark, but he could see the prisoner`s features by the lights, and he was sure the prisoner was the same woman. He went and told policeman Groves and they looked for the prisoner. In about ten minutes after they saw her sitting without her bonnet and shawl in the tap room of the Black Bull, and he had some difficulty recognising her as she had taken off her bonnet and shawl, but he was sure it was the same person, for he afterwards saw her with the bonnet and shawl on. The purse and money had not been found since.

Police Constable Groves said he apprehended the prisoner. Before he did so, prosecutor came to him and gave him information that he had lost his purse and about 30s. Asked prisoner whether he knew who took the purse, and prosecutor said he did not. Witness told him he could not render him any assistance. He afterwards apprehended the prisoner in the Black Bull tap room on the previous charge, when the prosecutor recognised her as the woman who had robbed him.

The jury, after consulting for a short time, found the prisoner Guilty.

The Recorder sentenced the prisoner for the first offence to six calendar months, with hard labour, and for the second offence six calendar months imprisonment with hard labour, in Dover gaol, to commence on the expiration of the first.

Folkestone Observer 26-8-1865

It was licensing day on Tuesday, when the magistrates suspended the license for the Black Bull, Canterbury Road, for holding a fair in defiance of the Corporation.

Folkestone Chronicle 27-10-1866

Coroner`s Inquest

An inquest was held on Thursday afternoon at the Black Bull Inn, before J. Minter Esq., borough coroner, and a respectable jury, on the body of a shoemaker of Rhodes Minnis, named John Hayward, who died on the 23^rd instant by injuries received by an accident on the 12^th instant. The following evidence was adduced:

James Quested Petts said: I am a builder at Folkestone. I identify the body of deceased as being that of John Hatward, of Rhodes Minnis, shoemaker. On October 12^th I was beside the “Old Gun”, Shellons Lane, Folkestone, and saw deceased sitting in a van with another man, whose name I think was Tumber. There was a horse in the van, which was stationary. Deceased was in the act of turning the horse around, and the van was tipped over. The deceased fell between the shaft and the fore wheel, and the fore wheel gathered in and run over him. I caught hold of the wagon and turned it up, and thus prevented the hind wheel going over him. His friends picked him up and took him into the Gun beershop.

Ellen Mannering said: I am the wife of Richard Mannering of Folkestone. On the 12^th of October, between 4 and 5 in the afternoon, I was close to the Gun beerhouse in Shellons Lane, Folkestone. I saw deceased on a wagon drawn by one horse. There was another man with him. The deceased was in the act of turning his horse round, when the horse shied and turned short, by which the wagon was turned over and I saw my father fall out. I was so frightened that I did not see the wheel of the wagon go over him. I and others assisted in getting the deceased into the Gun beerhouse.

William Bateman said: I am a surgeon practicing at Folkestone. On the 12^th instant, about five o`clock in the evening, I was sent for to the deceased and found him in the Gun beershop. He was lying on the bench in a cold and faint condition, almost in a state of collapse. In examining him I found four ribs broken on the right side, several bruises on the head and body, but no other serious injury. When a little recovered I had him removed in a fly to his daughter`s house, where I attended him until his death, which took place on the 23^rd instant. The cause of death was congestion of the lungs, the result of the injuries he received.

The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Folkestone Observer 27-10-1866

Coroner`s Inquest

An inquest was held on Thursday at the Black Bull inn, before J. Minter Esq., coroner, on the body of Mr. James Hayward, whose death occurred in the manner detailed in the evidence. Mr. Hales was foreman.

James Quested Petts, builder, identified the body of deceased as being that of John Hayward, Rhodes Minnis, shoemaker. On the 21^st October deceased was sitting in his van with another man, whose name he thought was Tumber, opposite the Old Gun, Shellons Lane, Folkestone. A horse was in the van, and the van was stationary. He was in the act of turning his horse around, and the van tipped over. The deceased fell between the shaft and the fore-wheel, and the fore-wheel gathered in and ran over him. Witness got hold of the wagon and threw it up, and thus prevented the hind wheels from going over him. His friends picked him up and took him into the Gun beershop.

Ellen Mannering, wife of Richard Mannering, Folkestone, labourer, and daughter of deceased, was close to the Gun beerhouse, in Shellons Lane, between four and five o`clock in the afternoon on the 21^st of October. Saw deceased there in a wagon drawn by one horse. There was another man with him. The deceased was in the act of turning his horse round, when the horse shied and turned short, by which the wagon was turned over and she saw her father fall out, but she was so frightened that she did not see the wheels of the wagon go over him. She and others assisted in getting the deceased into the Gun beerhouse.

William Bateman, surgeon, said: I was sent for to the deceased about five o`clock in the evening of the 21<sup>st</sup> of October, and found him in the Gun beerhouse, Shellons Lane. He was lying on the bench in a fainting condition, almost in a state of collapse. On examining him I found four ribs broken on the right side. There was a bruising about the head and body but no other serious injury. The same day, when he was a little recovered, I had him removed in a fly to his daughter`s house, where I attended him until his death, which took place on Tuesday. Recovering from the first shock, he went on well for three days, and then congestion of the lungs came on, no doubt caused by the injury he had received, and from that he died.

The jury returned a verdict of accidental death.

Kentish Gazette 30-10-1866

An inquest was held on Thursday afternoon, at the Black Bull Inn, before J. Minter, Esq., borough coroner, and a respectable jury, on the body of a shoemaker of Rhodes Minnis, named John Hayward, who died on the 23^rd instant from injuries received by an accident on the 12^th instant.

The following evidence was adduced: James Quested Petts said: I am a builder at Folkestone I identify the body of deceased as being that of John Hayward, of Rhodes Minnis, shoemaker. On October 12^th I was beside the Old Gun, Shellons Lane, Folkestone, and saw deceased sitting in a van with another man, whose name I think was Tumber. There was a horse in the van, which was stationary. Deceased was in the act of turning the horse round, and the van was tipped over. The deceased fell between the «haft and fore-wheel, and the fore-wheel gathered in and run over him. I caught hold of the wagon and turned it up, and thus prevented the hind wheel going over him. His friends picked him up and took him into the Gun beer-shop.

Ellen Mannering said: I am the wife of Richard Mannering, of Folkestone. On the 12^th of October, between 4 and 5 o`clock in the afternoon, I was close to the Gun beer-house in Shellons Lane, Folkestone. I saw deceased on a wagon drawn by one horse. There was another man with him. The deceased was in the act of turning his horse round when the horse shied and turned short, by which the wagon was turned over and I saw my father fall out. I was so frightened that I did not see the wheel of the wagon go over him. I and others assisted in getting the deceased into the Gun beer-house.

William Bateman said: I am a surgeon, practising at Folkestone. On the 12^th instant, about five o'clock in the evening, I was sent for to the deceased and found him in the Gun beer-shop. He was lying on the bench in a cold and faint condition, almost in a state of collapse. In ex­amining him I found four ribs broken on the right side, several bruises on the head and body, but no other serious injury. When a little recovered I had him removed in a fly to his daughter’s house, where I attended him until his death, which took place on the 23^rd instant. The cause of death was congestion of the lungs, the result ol the in­juries he had received.

The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Folkestone Chronicle 6-7-1867

Monday July 1^st: Before the Mayor, J. Kelcey and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

George Yates and John Wilson, travellers, were brought up, charged with stealing a white shirt, a plaid scarf, and a black waistcoat, value 5s., the property of Frederick Squire, a musician, on the 28^th.

Prosecutor deposed that he slept at the Black Bull Inn on Friday night, and that on Saturday morning he missed a travelling bag containing three shirts, ten collars, twelve pocket handkerchiefs, six pairs cotton socks, two flannel shirts, a black vest, a plaid scarf, two music scores, hat brush, clothes brush, comb and hard brush, two parts of a cornet, and a piece of music. He went to the Ship Inn, Radnor Street, and found the prisoners there. Accompanied by a man named Burgess he went into a room, and under a bed occupied by the prisoners he found a bundle containing three shirts, a vest, pair of trousers, and two scarves; one shirt, the vest, and one scarf were his property. On charging the prisoners with stealing them, Yates said “It`s no use making a bother and charging innocent people about your things. I took `em. I did not know they were a traveller`s, or I would not have done it”. The other prisoner was drunk. He found a policeman and gave them into custody. The value of the articles was £2 10s.

William Borough Darley, salesman for “Cheap Jack”, saw the prisoners and a tall man near the Black Bull on Friday evening. The tall man had a black leather bag and a bundle with him.

Louisa Bates, wife of the landlord of the Ship Inn, said prisoners slept at the house on Friday night. Three persons slept in one bed. There was another in the room, which was also occupied, and three other persons had to pass through the room.

James Penny, exhibitor of Purchase`s waxwork, heard prosecutor charge prisoners with the robbery, and heard Yates say “I am the one that nailed them”.

After a brief deliberation Wilson was discharged, and Yates sent to Petworth for six weeks` hard labour.

Folkestone Observer 6-7-1867

Monday, July 1^st: Before The Mayor, J. Kelcey, and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

George Yates and John Wilson were charged with felony.

Frederick Squire, musician, said he occupied a bedroom at the Black Bull, and on Friday evening at 6 o`clock his bag was on the drawers in his room. On Saturday morning at 8 o`clock, he missed it from it`s place. It contained three new linen shirts, one worn shirt, ten linen collars, twelve white pocket handkerchiefs, six small ones marked with the initial “N”, and six large ones not marked, six pair white cotton socks, two under flannels, one black waistcoat, one plaid winter scarf, two music scores, hat brush, clothes brush, comb and hair brush, two pieces of a cornet, and a pianoforte copy. He immediately went downstairs and made his loss known. Knew prisoners by sight. They were not lodging in the house. Came into the town, and found the prisoners in the Ship Inn, Radnor Street. One was sitting on one sode of the kitchen, and one on the other. Charged them with breaking into his bedroom and stealing the bag. The bedroom door was not locked, but fastened. Both denied it in foul language. Went upstairs with Mr. Purchase, and under the bed that he said they had occupied – between the mattress and the battens – found the bundle of articles produced, containing three shirts (only one of them belonging to witness), a black waistcoat, and a scarf, also belonging to him, and which were in the bag he had missed. Went for a policeman, and took him back with him and gave the prisoners into custody. After charging the prisoners, Yates said “It is of no use you making a bother and charging the whole of us. You have lost your things. They are gone. I took your things. I did not know they were a traveller`s, or I would not have taken them”. The other man was drunk.

William Burrough Barber said he was a salesman for Mr. Levi, “Cheap Jack”, and he knew both prisoners by sight. About 8 o`clock on Friday evening, he was in the Black Bull field, about five yards from the inn, and saw prisoners and another man standing near the wagon from which he was selling. The other man, a tall man, had a black bag in his hand. Did not see where they went.

Louisa Bates, wife of George Aquilla Bates, landlord of the Ship Inn, said she knew the prisoners – Yates lodging at her house on Thursday and Friday nights, and Wilson on Friday night. The prisoners and another man occupied one bed together. They were in and out all day. Did not notice either of them bring anything into the house. They went to bed between eleven and twelve. Did not notice whether they took anything upstairs.

Cross-examined: There are two beds in the room, and access is had through that room to another bedroom, in which three persons also slept on Friday night.

James Penny, a traveller, went to the Ship Inn on Saturday morning with prosecutor, and charged prisoners with stealing his bag, with music and different things in it. They said they knew nothing about it. Afterwards, when some of the things were found, Yates said “I am the man that nailed them, and no-one else had anything to do with them”.

P.C. Smith (6) went with P.C. Hills and prosecutor to the Ship on Saturday morning, and prosecutor gave the prisoners into custody on a charge of stealing a bag from his bedroom at the Black Bull. On the way to the station, the prisoner Yates said he thought this job was well done with.

The Bench then discharged Wilson from custody, and he hastily left the court, but Superintendent Martin stepped after him, and gave order for him to be taken below.

Prisoner Yates elected to be tried by magistrates, and pleaded guilty to the things being found in the room in which he slept, but he was not guilty of stealing them. He slept in the house where a great many were stopping. Four slept in the room he slept in, and four in the room to which access was obtained by passing through his room. Prosecutor said that if the things were found nothing would have come of it, and that made him say to the policeman that he thought the case was done with. He did not say that he had nailed the things.

Prosecutor denied having said nothing would be done if the things were found.

The Mayor said “George Yates, the Bench sentence you to six weeks` imprisonment with hard labour”.

Prisoner: My name is Hardman, not Yates.

The Mayor: You gave it wrong. You gave it first as Gates, then as Yates.

John Wilson was again placed in the dock.

James Penny, traveller, lodging at the Bull, said on Friday night, between eleven and twelve o`clock, he missed from his bedroom a bundle, containing a pair of trousers, two shirts, worsted socks, two linen collars, scarf, and pocket handkerchief. The bundle was safe between eight and nine of Friday morning. Told the landlord on Friday night of his loss, and he suggested that some of his companions had been having a lark with them and put them somewhere else. When Mr. Squire came down on Saturday morning and mentioned his loss, then he himself also thought his things had been stolen. Went with quire and Burrough Barber to the Ship Inn, and Barber, sitting down, said “Those persons over there had your things”. He referred to Yates, and the third man not there, who were sitting on one side. The third man got up, and lifting the poker swore he would knock Barber`s head off. Wilson was sitting on the other side, very drunk. Squire brought downstairs a bundle in which were some things that had been stolen from him, and the two shirts he had missed. Witness said to those in the room he wanted also his plaid trousers, two collars, and scarf. Yates said to prisoner Wilson “You know you have the trousers in your basket”. Prisoner went to the basket, which was standing on the settle, and said “They are not here now. Somebody has taken them away”. Shortly after that, someone he did not know brought in the things he had asked for, and also Mr. Squire`s scarf. That was while witness was in the kitchen, and Squire had gone for a policeman.

This being all the evidence, the prisoner was discharged.

Folkestone Observer 24-8-1867

Wednesday, August 21^st: Before The Mayor, Captain Kennicott R.N. and J. Tolputt Esq.

Licensing Day

This being the day for granting certificates of publicans for renewal of licenses, or for new licenses, there was a large attendance of the “victualling” craft. In the case of the Black Bull a promise was exacted not to allow the fair to be held in a field behind the house, as in past years, but the promise was refused, and the certificate therefore withheld.

Folkestone Chronicle 30-5-1868

Tuesday May 26^th: Before R.W. Boarer and A.M. Leith Esqs.

John Tutt, a labourer in the employ of Mr. Sladden, contractor, was brought up in custody and charged with stealing a fowl, the property of Edwin Burbidge.

Edwin Burbidge, Bath chairman, residing in Rendezvous Street, said: I have a little bit of garden and shed under the Viaduct, where I keep fowls. I have missed several – one a half-breed Spanish hen – between Good Friday and Easter Monday, which I next saw this morning, about a quarter to five o`clock, at the police station. I can swear to the fowl because there is a hole punched in it`s gills and because of it`s general appearance. It`s value is 2s. 6d.

Cross-examined: I don`t allow my fowls to run on other people`s ground. I did lose a fowl on the 23^rd May (last Saturday), and I asked you if you saw it go through a hole in your stable.

P.C. Charles Smith said, from information received, he went to prisoner`s house, No. 13, Darlington, about 4 o`clock this morning and found the fowl produced (which prosecutor identified as his) in prisoner`s hen house. There were five others there. I told prisoner it was stolen property and I should take him to the station, and he made no reply.

Cross-examined: You did not attempt to conceal anything.

Prisoner, having been cautioned, elected to be tried by the magistrates, and pleaded not guilty. He said he had four fowls similar to the one produced. He bought them from Robert Fisher at the Black Bull. He had no witness to call: had had no chance of sending for anyone.

Adjourned for an hour to allow prisoner to get any witnesses he pleased.

Robert Fisher attended at the adjournment and deposed to selling prisoner four fowls similar to the one produced, but he could not swear to that fowl.

Committed for one month hard labour.

Mr. Sladden came into court just as the case was closed, and stated that he had every confidence in prisoner`s honesty, and offered to pay any fine if the imprisonment could be remitted, but this was out of the power of the bench.

Folkestone Observer 30-5-1868

Tuesday, May 26^th: Before Captain Leith and R.W. Boarer Esq.

John Tutt, labourer, was charged with stealing a half bred Spanish fowl, the property of Edwin Burbridge.

Edwin Burbridge deposed that he was the proprietor of several Bath chairs, which he let for hire. He rented a shed under the viaduct, where he kept ducks, fowls, pigs, &c. He also had a piece of garden ground there. He missed a fowl on Easter Sunday. It was a half-bred Spanish hen. He had not seen it from Easter until he saw it at the police station that morning. He had no hesitation in saying that the fowl produced was his property, as it had his private mark on it – a hole through the right gill. The value of the fowl was about 2s. 6d. Anyone passing along the road could have access to his premises under the viaduct.

By the prisoner: Did lose a fowl on the 23^rd of May; there was a hole from prosecutor`s premises to the stable where the prisoner works. The stable is in the occupation of Mr. Slade.

Police constable C. Smith said from information he received he went to the prisoner`s house at No. 13, Darlington. It was 4 o`clock in the morning. Saw the prisoner there and asked him if he had anything in his yard or house that did not belong to him. He said “No”. Witness then searched the premises and found the hen produced in the prisoner`s hen house, at the back of his own house. There were five more fowls in the hen house. The fowl produced answered to the description given by the plaintiff. Told the prisoner that the fowl was stolen property, and he must take him into custody. Brought prisoner to the police station and charged him with stealing the fowl. He made no answer. Witness was present when the prosecutor identified the fowl as his own property.

By the prisoner: Did ask him if he had anything that did not belong to him. He did not attempt to conceal anything.

Prisoner said he was not guilty of stealing the fowl. He bought four from Mr. Fisher at the Black Bull about two years ago. Prosecutor had never laid his hand on the bird until that morning. He had no witnesses, but if the case was adjourned he could produce the man he bought the fowls of.

After patiently hearing the case, the magistrates adjourned it for one hour in order to give the prisoner an opportunity to produce a witness in his favour.

At one o`clock the magistrates again assembled, when Mr. G. Fisher was sworn and said that he had sold the prisoner fowls about two years ago, and they were half-bred Spanish, but could not swear the one produced was one of them, as those he sold to the prisoner were only chicks at the time. He sold them for 9d. each. The breed was from a Dorking cock and a black Spanish hen. The fowl produced was like the breed he had, but he would not swear it was the one that the prisoner bought of him 2 years ago.

The Bench said they had the power to send the prisoner for three months imprisonment, but considering that it was the first offence they would sentence him to one month`s imprisonment with hard labour to Petworth gaol.

Mr. Slade, the prisoner`s employer, here stepped forward and said that a more honest man than the prisoner could not exist. He believed him to be quite innocent of stealing the fowl, and if the Magistrates could take a fine he should be most happy to pay it at any amount.

Captain Leith very kindly explained to Mr. Slade that the Bench had no other alternative with the evidence before them, but to commit the prisoner to gaol. At the same time he was very sorry for his position, and also sorry that a fine could not be taken; the sentence of the Bench had been passed, and it could not be altered.

Folkestone Observer 27-6-1868

Monday, June 22^nd: Before R.W. Boarer Esq.

William Baker, labourer, was charged with being drunk and riotous in the Canterbury Road, also with using bad language, on the 21^st inst.

Prisoner pleaded guilty, alleging as an excuse that he had been ill-used.

P.C. Hills deposed to finding the prisoner about a quarter before two o`clock on Sunday morning, lying in front of the Black Bull public house. He was very drunk, and made use of the most disgusting language, in consequence of which he took him into custody.

Superintendent Martin, in answer to the magistrate, said prisoner had been there more than once for similar offences.

Mr. Boarer, however, as prisoner appeared to have been knocked about, and in consideration of his having been locked up two nights, gave him one more chance and discharged him.

Folkestone Express 28-8-1869

Wednesday, August 25^th: Before Captain Kennicott R.N., W. Bateman. J. Tolputt, A.M. Leith, and J. Gambrill Esqs.

Spirit License (Renewal)

Robert Fisher applied for a license for the Black Bull. Mr. Martin said several of the neighbours complained about the applicant holding the fair. He promised it should be done away with last year, yet he persisted in holding it.

The Magistrates said the town had been at considerable expense and trouble in doing away with the fair, and if the Corporation had opposed the license on those grounds they would not have granted it. License granted on promising not to hold the fair again.

Folkestone Express 1-7-1871

Sudden Death

On Wednesday evening last a man fell down dead at the Black Bull Inn, Canterbury Road. He proved to be a gardener employed at the Pavilion Gardens named Clement Gosby. The deceased, a single man, was only 32 years of age. The cause of death was disease of the heart.

Southeastern Gazette 1-7-1871

Local News

A man named Clement Gosby died suddenly while drinking at the Black Bull on Wednesday evening. The cause of death was certified by the doctor as disease of the heart.

Kentish Gazette 4-7-1871 

A man called Clement Goaby died suddenly while drinking at the Black Bull on Wednesday evening. The cause of death was certified by the doctor to be disease of the heart.

Folkestone Chronicle 19-10-1872

Saturday, October 12^th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny, and T. Caister Esq.

Mr. Fisher, landlord of the Black Bull, applied for an extension of hours for the following Monday, in consequence of the Michaelmas holiday coming off.

The Superintendent of police said it had been for years the custom of farm labourers to assemble at this house at Michaelmas, and enjoy themselves in dancing and singing. He had no complaint to make against the house, which had always been conducted in an orderly manner.

The Magistrates granted an extension of time until one o`clock on Tuesday morning.

Folkestone Express 19-10-1872

Saturday, October 12^th: Before The Mayor, Col. De Crespigny and T. Caister Esq.

An application by Mr. Fisher, Black Bull Inn, Canterbury Road, for an extension of hours on Monday last, on the occasion of the farm servants` Michaelmas holidays was granted, the time of closing being extended to one in the morning. Mr. Martin, Superintendent of Police, gave the house a good character.

Kentish Gazette 19-6-1877 

Extract from a report on a storm of Monday evening week: The Black Bull Inn, on the Canterbury Road, was struck by the electric fluid about half past twelve. Mr. Fisher felt the shock, and both he and his wife got up, but failed to find out the damage until the morning, when, on going outside, Mr. Fisher saw smoke issuing from one of the chimneys, and discovered that the house was on fire. It was apparent, on searching, that the lightning entered the chimney and, first forcing out a part of the brickwork in the attic, it went down to the lower storey through a hole at the side of the recess, passing in an oblique direction through a chair standing by the hearth and setting fire to the chair. It went through the hearth rug and carpet and burnt a hole in the floorboards about the size of the palm of the hand. The walls of the room show marks of fire as if the fluid had bespattered them, while the paint of the wainscot and the ceiling seems to have been scorched in different parts.

It is a curious fact that the landlord looked through the whole premises excepting this room, and it seems an extraordinary circumstance that the fire did not burst into a flame. The damage done is most peculiar. An antimacassar hanging over the back of an easy chair was burnt across the top where it hung on the chair, which was merely scorched on that part only. The stone mantelpiece is pushed about two inches out of the straight, and the mirror is partially stripped of its frame, while the tissue paper that had covered it is only partly consumed. The vases and other ornaments on the mantel were thrown down and broken, one picture frame was burnt without destroying the glass, and about two dozen plants, standing in front of the window, which were on Monday very healthy and strong, are now shrivelled up and dead.

Folkestone Express 30-3-1878

Inquest

A sad occurrence took place at Foord on Saturday night. It appears a man named John Epps, a labourer in the employ of Mr. Wilson, left the Castle Inn, Foord, about eight o`clock in the evening to go to his house in Bridge Street. He was intoxicated at the time. Instead of taking the roadway, which is somewhat further, he attempted to cross some fields and garden ground, through which there is no path, and when about half way came to a pond. The appearance of the vegetation would seem to suggest that he fell or laid down, and on getting up again staggered into the pond. He was not discovered until the next morning (Sunday), when he had been dead several hours. An inquest was held at the Black Bull on Monday afternoon before J. Minter Esq., the borough Coroner, when the following evidence was given:

Francis Perry Mascall, a gardener, living at No. 1, Queen Street, identified the body. He said: On Sunday morning, about nine o`clock, I found the deceased in a pond in my field, which is near here. I was going round the pond and saw something strange. On going closer, I saw it was a body. I called to Mr. Goodchild, and told him there was a man or a woman in the pond. The body was laying on it`s side, only one ear and part of a cap being out of the water, which was, I should think, about four feet deep, perhaps hardly so much. A Mr. Page and Mr. Goodchild came and stood by the pond, and I went for a policemen. On Saturday evening I believe I met the deceased about eight o`clock, coming into the garden. He passed me, but was not on my premises altogether, so I said nothing to him. It appeared to me that he was going up towards Mr. Page`s gate, but he did not turn in.  Near the pond I saw some strange footsteps, and some cabbage plants were broken, as if he had laid down. It seemed to me as if he had been trying to get to the other side of the pond, and that he was making a short cut to his home. He did not appear to me to be sober.

William Page, a bricklayer living at Foord, said: I knew the deceased. On Saturday night at eight o`clock I saw him in at Fields`, the Castle Inn. He was sitting there when I went in. He asked me if I had any straw to sell. I said yes, but I could not get it then, as it was too late, but that he could have a bundle in the morning if he wanted it. He said “All right”. He did not appear to be much the worse for drink. I don`t think he was sober. He went out, but did not say where he was going. My house adjoins Mascall`s garden. I saw the footmarks, and am of the same opinion as Mascall. I had never seen the deceased in my garden before. He was not in the habit of going home that way. There were only the footmarks of one person at the spot, and no appearance of a struggle. There was a place where he had fallen down.

Mr. Richard Mercer, surgeon, said he was sent for between half past ten and eleven on Sunday morning. He saw the deceased, and on examining him found he had been dead some hours. There were no marks of violence about the body. Death was in his opinion caused by drowning.

P.C. Keeler said he assisted to take the body of deceased out of the water. On searching him he found two pounds in gold, eleven shillings in silver, and a farthing in bronze.

Joseph Coles, a mason living at Foord, said he saw deceased at the Castle Inn about eight o`clock on Saturday evening. Deceased left about eight o`clock. He was drunk when he left.

There was no further evidence to show how deceased came in the pond, and the jury returned a verdict of “Found Drowned”.

The deceased man leaves a widow, but no children.

Southeastern Gazette 1-4-1878

Inquest

A sad occurrence took place at Foord on Saturday night. A man named John Epps, a labourer, in the employ of Mr. Wilson, left the Castle Inn, Foord, about eight o’clock in the evening to go to his house in Bridge Street, and it is said he was intoxicated at the time. Instead of taking the roadway, which is somewhat farther, he attempted to cross some fields and garden ground, through which there is no path, and when about half way came to a pond. He would seem either to have fallen or to have laid down, and on getting up again staggered into the pond. He was not discovered until the next morning (Sunday), when he had been dead several hours. An inquest was held at the Black Bull, on Monday afternoon, before J. Minter, Esq., the borough coroner, when, after hearing the evidence of several persons, the jury returned an open verdict. The deceased leaves a widow but no children.

Kentish Gazette 2-4-1878 

An inquest was held at the Black Bull Inn on Monday afternoon week, before the coroner (Mr. J. Minter), touching the death of John Epps, who was found dead in a pond in that locality, on the previous day.

Francis Perry Maskell, a gardener residing at No. 1, Queen Street, identified the body aa that of John Epps, late of Bridge Street, a labourer. Witness stated that he found the body in a pond in a field which he occupied as a market gardener. It was lying on the side in the water. Witness called a Mr. Goodchild, and then went for a constable. He met the deceased on the previous evening near the spot, and he did not appear to be sober. Witness thought the deceased was making a abort cut home, and walked into the pond.

William Page, a bricklayer, residing at Foord, stated that he knew the deceased. On Saturday evening, at eight o’clock, he saw deceased at the Castle Inn. He was sitting on the seat, and asked witness whether he had any straw to sell, and witness replied “yes”. He told him he could have a bundle in the morning if that would do, and he said it would. Deceased was not quite sober. He got up and walked out there and then. He had never seen deceased in the field before. There were only one person's foot­marks round the pond. There was no appearance of any struggle. There was no footpath across the field.

Dr. Richard Mercer said he was called to see the body of deceased between half-past ten and eleven on Sunday morning, and on examining it found that be had been dead some time. There were no marks of violence. Death was caused by drowning.

Police Constable Keeler said he assisted to take the body of the deceased out of the water, and upon searcbing it found £2 in gold, 11s. in silver, and a farthing in bronze, one tobacco box. a knife, a comb and a key.

Joseph Cole, a mason, living at Foord, said he saw the deceased at the Castle Inn on Saturday night, about eight o'clock. He was drunk.

The jury returned as their verdict “That deceased came by his death by drowning, but there was no evidence to show bow he came into the pond”. 

Folkestone Express 1-11-1879

Saturday, 25^th October: Before The Mayor, Aldermen Caister, Hoad, and Sherwood, Col. De Crespigny, General Cannon, Captain Carter, W.J. Jeffreason, J. Clark, and J. Fitness Esqs.

George Petts was summoned for refusing to quit the Black Bull Inn on the 18^th October.

George Finn, the landlord, said defendant went to his house on Saturday the 18^th between two and three o`clock in the afternoon. He called for a pot of beer. He was not sober, and insulted everyone who entered the bar. Witness requested him to leave, and defendant pulled off his clothes, and making use of foul language, wanted to fight.

He was fined 5s. and 9s. costs, or seven days.

Folkestone Chronicle 14-5-1881

Auction Advertisement

Mr. John Banks is instructed to sell by auction, at the West Cliff Hotel, Folkestone, on Wednesday, May 25^th, 1881, at three of the clock in the afternoon, all that unfinished, newly-built leasehold, fully licensed HOTEL, known as the Black Bull, situate and abutting to the Canterbury Road, Folkestone, and cobering the large area with the surrounding ground of about 30,000 superficial feet.

Containing in the Basement a Dry Cellar, for the storing and preservation of Stock Ale and Beer, 23 feet square, Wine and Spirit Cellars, 25 ft. by 12 ft. 10 in.

Ground Floor: Public and Private Bars, Bar Parlour, and Taproom, Coffee and Smoking Rooms, Kitchen, Scullery, Larder, Entrance Hall, and W.C.

First Floor: Public Room, 21 feet square, Bagatelle Room, Four large airy Bedrooms, Landing, and W.C.

Second Floor: Eight well-proportioned and airy Bedrooms, Landing, and W.C.

Commanding an uninterrupted view of the hills and valley for about ten miles. Within five minutes` walk of the Junction Station, South Eastern Railway.

A lease will be granted by the Earl of Radnor to the purchaser, for a term of 99 years from the 29^th Sept. 1880, at the annual Ground Rent of £30 for the first year, and £60 for the remainder of the term. A draft of the lease and of the plan may be seen at the office of the vendor`s solicitor, and will be produced at the time of sale.

The vendor reserves to himself the right at any time before the completion of the sale to take down and remove the present Public House and Buildings and dispose of them.

Folkestone Chronicle 28-5-1881

On Wednesday afternoon last Mr. John Banks sold by auction at the West Cliff Hotel, the partly finished building adjoining the old established inn, the Black Bull, in Canterbury Road, to supercede which the new house has been built. The Ground Rent for the first year is to be £30, and thereafter £60 per annum. The property was sold for £1,125, and which comprises an area of 30,000 superficial feet.

Folkestone Express 28-5-1881

Local News

On Wednesday afternoon Mr. John Banks sold by auction, at the West Cliff Hotel, the partly finished building adjoining the old-established inn, the Black Bull, in Canterbury Road, to supersede which the new house has been built. The ground rent for the first year is to be £30, and thereafter £60 per annum. The auctioneer stated that the value of the materials and work in the building was about £1,600. The property, which comprises an area of 30,000 superficial feet, was sold for £1,125.

Folkestone Chronicle 27-8-1881

Annual Licensing Day

The Annual Licensing Day was on Wednesday last, the Magistrates on the Bench being The Mayor, A.M. Watkin, F. Boykett, and J. Clarke Esqs., and Ald. Caister.

On the application of Mr. Minter the license of the Black Bull was transferred to the newly-built premises.

Folkestone Express 27-8-1881

Wednesday, August 24^th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Caister, W. Bateman, A.m. Watkin, J. Boykett and J. Clark Esqs.

Annual Licensing Day

Mr. Minter applied on behalf of Mr. J.Q. Petts, trustee of Alfred Daniel Keeler, for a transfer of the license of the Black Bull Inn to newly built premises. Granted.

Southeastern Gazette 27-8-1881

Annual Licensing Meeting

On Wednesday the annual licensing meeting for the borough of Folkestone was held at the Town Hall. The Mayor presided, and there were also present: Alderman Caister, Dr. Bateman, and F. Boykett, A. M. Watkin, and J. Clark, Esqs.

James Quested Petts, as trustee, applied for the transfer of the licence of the Black Bull to the new Black Bull in course of erection, and the application was granted.

Kentish Gazette 30-8-1881 

On Wednesday, before the Mayor (J.B. Tolputt Esq.) and J. Clark, T. Caister, A.M. Watkin, F. Boykett and W. Bateman Esqs., Mr. Minter, on behalf of Mr. Petts, applied for the removal to new premises of the licence of the Black Bull, in Canterbury Road, Mr. Petts being the Trustee under the liquidation of Mr. Keeler, builder. The application was granted. 

Folkestone Express 11-10-1884

Saturday, October 4^th: Before The Mayor, Captain Crowe, General Armstrong, Aldermen Banks and Hoad, and F. Boykett Esq.

Temporary authority was granted to Mrs. Atkins to carry on business at the Black Bull public house.

Folkestone News 11-10-1884

Saturday, October 4^th: Before The Mayor, General Armstrong, Aldermen Hoad and Banks, Captain Crowe, and Mr. F. Boykett.

The Black Bull

A temporary transfer of the licence of this house was granted to Mr. Atkins

Folkestone Express 1-11-1884

Wednesday, October 29^th: Before Captain Crowe, F. Boykett and A.M. Watkin Esqs.

Transfer Of Licence

The licence of the Black Bull was transferred to Lucy Atkins

Folkestone News 7-2-1885

Local News

The following case was heard before the Borough Bench on Wednesday. John Champion, labourer, was charged with assaulting Charles Austen on the 27^th January. Defendant pleaded Guilty and complainant said the assault took place at the Black Bull. A cross-summons charged Austen with assaulting Champion on the same occasion. The complainant said he was in the Black Bull on the 27^th, and saw Austen there, who knocked him under the table. He hit Austen and kicked him. He did not know what for. (Laughter) Champion was fined 10s., with 10s. costs, or fourteen days`. Austen`s summons was dismissed.

Folkestone Express 17-7-1886

Wednesday, July 14^th: Before J. Holden and H.W. Poole Esqs.

Joseph Cole, a labourer, was summoned for an assault on a carver and gilder named Thomas Fletcher. Mr. Minter appeared for the defence. It appeared from the evidence, which was rather long, that the complainant and defendant had been drinking together at the Black Bull. They were not drunk, but, according to a witness named Kyrle Gordon, were “in a Saturday night state”. There was some dispute about a dog and a scuffle ensued in the bar, in the course of which the complainant fell over, or was knocked over, a chair, and, as he alleged the defendant struck him several times. Complainant, who was much the smaller man of the two, then challenged the defendant to fight. They went outside and complainant received a good hiding. He was also knocked down and had his arm broken. The defence raised by Mr. Minter was that it was purely a public house row, and if the complainant had not had his arm broken nothing would have been heard of it, but in order to obtain payment of his club money, complainant wanted to make out that he was the victim of defendant`d brutality.

The Bench, however, came to the conclusion that a gross assault had been committed, and fined the defendant £1 and 17s. costs, and in default 14 days` hard labour. He was allowed a week to pay.

Kentish Gazette 17-7-1886 

Death: Petts – June 21, at Folkestone, Mary Ann, eldest daughter of James Quested Petts.

Folkestone Chronicle 4-1-1895

Local News

At the Borough Bench on Saturday the licence of the Black Bull Inn was temporarily transferred to Alfred Pollard, formerly licensee of the Bouverie Hotel.
 

Folkestone Chronicle 18-1-1895

Local News

At the Town Hall on Wednesday, before Messrs. Banks, Gilborne and Wightwick, transfer of licence was granted to the following – A. Pollard to the Black Bull Inn.

Folkestone Express 13-11-1897

Saturday, November 6^th: Before The Mayor, J. Hoad, J. Holden, T.J. Vaughan, and J. Pledge Esqs.

Frederick Stephen Allen was summoned for stealing a pair of boots. He did not appear.

Walter Cook, of 1, Park Terrace, a carter in the employ of Alderman Salter, said on Sunday, the 26^th September, he left a pair of boots in the stable of the Bouverie Laundry. Next morning he missed them. In consequence of what a man named Taylor told him he went on the 30^th October to the Black Bull public house, and there saw a man named McHenry, who showed him a pair of boots, which he identified as his. He valued them at 6s.

John McHenry, a labourer, of 25, Mill Bay, said he was at the Black Bull public house and saw Frederick Stephen Allen there, offering a pair of jackboots for sale for 4s., and afterwards he accepted 3s. from witness for them. He heard no more about the boots until Thursday week. Subsequently he gave the boots up to Cook, who said they were his.

A warrant was ordered to be issued.

Folkestone Herald 13-11-1897

Police Court Record

On Saturday last – the Mayor (Alderman Banks) presiding – Frederick Stephen Allen was charged with stealing a pair of boots. As he did not appear Supt. Taylor asked for a warrant and called evidence in support of the application.

Walter Cook, of 1, Park Road, deposed that on Sunday, 26^th September, at 8 a.m. he left in the stable of 4, Bouverie Laundry a pair of boots, which he missed from there next morning. In consequence of something a man named Taylor told him, he saw a man named Backinery on the 30^th October, who showed him the boots (produced) which witness valued at 6s.

A labourer named Backinery deposed that on the evening of the 26^th Sept. he saw the defendant in the Black Bull public house, and eventually purchased a pair of boots from him for 3s., Allen saying he had bought them and could not wear them. In consequence of something Taylor said, witness handed over the boots on the previous Saturday.

This concluded the evidence taken in the case, and the Bench ordered a warrant to issue.

Folkestone Visitors` List 16-2-1898

Kaleidoscope

A fire, which, fortunately, was unattended by serious consequences, occurred at the Black Bull Hotel on Thursday evening, when it is supposed that a spark from the fire ignited some linen hanging to air in a bedroom. The damage, thought not great, is covered by insurance in the State Company. A most remarkable incident in connection with the affair is that a child was sleeping at the time of, and during the progress, of the fire, and it was not until two chairs and some linen had been destroyed, practically after the fire burned out, that the conflagration was known to have existed.

Folkestone Herald 24-6-1899

Folkestone Police Court

On Saturday last, George Wanstall was summoned for assault.

Frederick Holland, complainant, deposed that he was a labourer, living at 22, Invicta Road. The alleged assault took place about a quarter to twelve on Saturday night. He was sitting indoors having a bit of supper. Defendant came and knocked at his door. He asked witness who it was interfering with his wife. Witness said “Nobody in here that I know of”. Defendant then asked if there was any woman to fight his wife or any man to tackle him. Witness said “No, nobody wants to”. Defendant then struck him and knocked him down in the doorway. Defendant struck him near his neck with his fist; then he moved away. Witness recovered himself and walked after him. When he got in the road, defendant knocked him down again and got on him, but witness`s father pulled him off. Witness followed him to his door and asked why he had hit him. Defendant put his two hands on each side of the doorway and kicked him in the thigh. Witness went away after then. On Saturday night, his wife asked witness to have a drink, and he said he did not want it.

Walter Hills, labourer, 22, Invicta Road, substantially corroborated the assault.

Henry Whittall, of 25, Invicta Road, deposed that he saw Holland on the ground, and the defendant on him; also as to the kick.

Defendant said he went home about twenty past eleven and found his wife sobbing and crying. He was told Frederick Holland and his mother had been beating her somewhat cruelly. He did what he thought was a husband`s duty and asked the object. He asked who had done it, and complainant said he did. Complainant knocked him in the passage, and he returned the blow. They got him on the ground. He had to fight or he would have been killed.

Holland was now summoned for assaulting Wanstall.

Mrs. Wanstall deposed that she lived at 15, Invicta Road. She went in the Black Bull on Saturday night at quarter to eleven. She called for what she wanted. She spoke to Mrs. Holland and her husband. Mrs. Holland, the complaiant`s mother, struck her. Outside the Bull she knocked her down again. Mrs. Holland and her son both knocked her down. Defendant struck her in the face and knocked her down in Invicta Road. She did not give any provocation.

Mrs. Annie Parsons corroborated that defendant struck Mrs. Wanstall in the face. She was knocked down.

Mary Holland was now summoned for assaulting Esther Wanstall.

Complainant deposed that the defendant struck her three times in the face.

Albert Cheeseman, a milkman, who was called by defendant, deposed that he saw Mrs. Holland push Mrs. Wanstall out of the door, but she attempted to strike Holland.

Another witness deposed that Mrs. Wanstall, calling Holland a foul name, began it. Mrs. Wanstall struck Mrs. Holland on the forehead, and she gave Mrs. Wanstall a push.

The Bench inflicted on George Wanstall a fine of 10s. and 12s. costs, or 14 days` hard labour, and dismissed the other cases.

On Monday, Daniel Collins was charged with wilfully a glass, a decanter, and a lamp glass, value 6s. He pleaded Not Guilty.

Mrs. Sarah Elizabeth Coleman deposed: My husband`s name is Frederick Coleman, of the Oddfellows, in Radnor Street. On Saturday evening, between nine and ten, I was in the bar. Two men came in. The defendant was one. He had not had much to drink, but was not quite sober. I served him with two pints. He disagreed about paying; he did not want to pay. He said he had paid me. He did not pay for them, but used bad language to me. He took up the water jug and threw it over the counter, breaking a lamp glass, also a decanter. I don`t know what he aimed at. There was brandy in the decanter, and it was spilt. I was standing in the bar near where the brandy was. The value altogether is 5s., I think.

Defendant said it was a mistake in identity.

Witness said the defendant did it.

George Marsh corroborated.

Defendant said he never handled the jug. He knew nothing about it. His companion picked up the jug. They would not serve his companion in other public houses.

Fined 5s., 6s. damages, and 5s. 6d. costs, or 14 days` hard labour.

Defendant said he had 9s. 7d.

Folkestone Up To Date 24-6-1899

Saturday, June 17^th: Before The Mayor, J. Hoad, J. Pledge, G. Spurgen, and T.J. Vaughan Esqs.

George Wanstall was summoned for assaulting Frederick Holland.

The complainant said: I am a labourer. The assault took place at a quarter to twelve on Saturday night. The defendant asked me why I had been interfering with his wife. I says “Nobody in here has, as I know of”. He says “Is there any woman in here who can come and frighten him out, or any man that can fight me?” I says “No; nobody wants to”. With that he struck me, and knocked me down on the doorway with his fist, and then he walked away. I recovered myself, and walked after him. When I got in the centre of the road he knocked me down again, and then got on top of me, and my father came and pulled him off. I then followed him to his door, and asked him what he had hit me for. With that he put his hands at each side of the doorway, and tried to kick me in the thigh. I went away after that. I know his wife by sight. I spoke to her one night, when she asked me to have a drink. That was all, sir.

Walter Hill: I am a labourer, living at 22, Invicta Road. I was sitting inside the house, when I heard a knocking, and the defendant came and asked me what man had been knocking his wife about. I said “No-one that I know of”. The complainant was near at the time. The defendant struck the complainant, hit him on the shoulder, knocked him down, and got on the top of him in the middle of the road, and afterwards started beating his wife.

A further witness, living at 25, Invicta Road, said he saw part of the assault on the complainant.

The defendant, in making his statement in Court, accused Frederick Holland with beating and ill-using his wife. He said he went to the complainant to accuse him, and to demand an explanation, and was brutally assaulted in return.

Frederick Holland was then brought up for assaulting Ester Wanstall.

The complainant said: I went to the Black Bull on Saturday night, and just said “Good evening” to young Mr. Holland. No concersation followed, but the defendant became violent and struck me, and knocked me down several times.

Another witness said: I went to the Black Bull on Saturday night with the complainant. She had a little drop, and other things she wanted. Afterwards Mrs. Holland came out of a room and made a strike at Mrs. Wanstall. I could not say exactly what it was about. The defendant struck Mrs. Wanstall on the face with his fist and knocked her down.

Mary Holland was also brought up for assaulting Ester Wanstall on the 10^th June.

Evidence similar to that in the last case was given.

The defendant George Wanstall was fined 10s. and 12s. costs, in default 14 days`, and the cases against the Hollands were dismissed.

Folkestone Chronicle 16-12-1899

Wednesday, December 13^th: Before Alderman Banks, and Messrs. Wightwick, Herbert, and Pursey.

William George Warner (sic) applied for the transfer of the licence of the Black Bull Hotel from Alfred Pollard. Granted.

Note: Date is at variance with More Bastions.

 

Folkestone Express 16-12-1899

Wednesday, December 13^th: Before John Banks, W. Wightwick, W.G. Herbert, and C.J. Pursey Esqs.

William George Warne was granted a provisional transfer of licence for the Black Bull Inn.

Note: Date is at variance with More Bastions.

Folkestone Herald 16-12-1899

Folkestone Police Court

On Wednesday a temporary authority was granted to Mr. William George Warne for the Black Bull Inn from Mr. Albert Pollard.

Note: Date is at variance with More Bastions.