Blue Anchor, Beach Street c1700 - 1906

Blue Anchor c1905. Credit Folkestone Library. The Providence is to the left, and the Queen`s Head to the right

Licensees

Edward Brown Mentioned 1717 Perhaps later Ship Inn

William Fuller c1741 1741

Stephen Tolputt c1765 1769

Sarah Tolputt 1769 1772

Elizabeth Tolputt 1772 1773

Thomas Marks 1773 1779 To Marquis Of Granby (1)

Richard Inge ???? 1793

John Hogben 1793 1794 To Three Squirrels

John Matson 1794 1794

William Durban 1794 1796

James Hall 1796 1801

Richard Hambrook 1801 1820

Thomas Richardson c1820c1851

Thomas Richardson (Son) c1851 1863 (1851 Census)

G. Warman c1863 1866

John Peel 1866 1870 To Perseverance

John Vye 1870 1878 From Dolphin

Stephen Smith 1878 1879

Thomas March 1879 1879

Richard Brice 1879 1879

John Drury 1879 1872

Joseph Saunders 1882 1885 To East Cliff Tavern

Caroline Kingsford-Houson 1885 1887

William James Snelling 1887 1888 From Prince Albert

Christian Norman 1888 1894 To Gun Tavern

James Hamilton 1894 1894

Jane Hamilton 1894 1895

William Beaton 1895 1896 To Eagle Tavern

Henry Worsley 1896 1898
Ellen Worsley 1898 1899

James Bugg 1899 1900

Walter Whiting 1900 1905

George Stonar 1905 1905

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811

General Sessions 24-6-1793

Before Thomas Baker (Mayor), John Harvey, Thomas Farley, and John Minter.

John Hogben appeared and prayed to have the licence granted to Richard Inge at the Blue Anchor assigned to him, which was granted on his entering into a recognisance with two sureties pursuant to the late Act of Parliament, when he proposed John Wingfield and James Mullett, who were accepted.

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811

General Sessions 22-7-1794

Before Thomas Baker (Mayor), John Minter, John Castle and Jacob Stredwick

The licence of the Blue Anchor was transferred to William Durban.

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811

General Sessions 11-10-1796

This day James Hall petitioned to have licence to sell ale, etc., under the licence granted to William Durban, until the next general licensing day. Ordered accordingly.

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811

General Sessions 6-12-1801

Before Thomas Baker (Deputy Mayor), Joseph Sladen, and Edward Andrews.

Richard Hambrook, a freeman of this Corporation, petitioned to have the licence of the public house called the Blue Anchor, late occupied by James Hall, transferred to him, he having paid the same, which was granted accordingly when he and his sureties attended and entered into recognisances.

Folkestone Sessions Books 1765 – 1779 & 1792 - 1811

General Sessions 25-4-1808

Before Thomas Baker (Mayor), Joseph William Knight, John Castle, John Gill, John Bateman and James Major.

The following person was fined for having short measures in their possession, viz.:

Ric Hambrook for one pint 2/6

 

Kentish Gazette 27-8-1811 

Assizes, Friday, August 23, before a special Jury

The King v Richard Hambrook

This was an indictment against the defendant for aiding in the escape of prisoners of war from Chesterfield, and for that purpose harbouring them in his house at Folkestone.

Mr. Serjeant Shepherd opened the case on behalf of the prosecution. The prisoner kept a small public house, called the Blue Anchor, so the question to be decided was whether the defendant was aiding in the escape of the prisoners in question, named Chanmont, Latardie, Jessileux, J.B. Marten, Laddie, Nutali and Bouet.

Mr. John Bouser, agent for the French prisoners of war at Chesterfield, deposed that all the above-named persons, except Bouet, were on their parole at Chesterfield, and absented themselves on the 18^th of September last. The prisoners were brought into court and identified.

Lieut. Christie, of His Majesty`s sloop Cordelia, saw a boat on the night of the 22^nd Sept., which they brought to, after having fired at, although the person in it answered on being hailed that it was a Folkestone boat. There was a jar on board with some ale in it, and bread and rum, together with a large deal box. Next morning the witness sent them to the flagship on the Downs.

James Butler deposed that he was chaise driver at the Fountain Inn, in Canterbury, and on the evening of the – Sept., three gentlemen came there in a chaise, and the witness was desired to drive them to the Blue Anchor, an inferior inn at Folkestone. He there saw the landlord, the defendant, who told the gentlemen, who had got out of the chaise, that he had got lodgings for them (on the question being put to him), but not in his own house. He had made no previous enquiry of them, or had any other conversation. The deal box they brought, they left till the landlord came back, when he paid the witness for the chaise, and desired him to put the box into his house. He also asked if the witness knew if there were any more coming, to which he replied in the negative. The witness had seen the box taken out of a boat at sea, which was the same as that he carried in the chaise.

Sherwood, another driver at the Fountain Inn, at Canterbury, said that on the 19^th Sept., a chaise came in from Sittingbourne, and the witness drove them to Folkestone. The witness took them to the Folkestone Arms, but they were shown down the road to the Blue Anchor by Janeway, the son of the landlord of the Folkestone Arms. When they got out he saw that they were foreigners and he recognised none of them.

James Janeway conducted the foreigners from the Folkestone Arms to the Blue Anchor. They were all gone to bed, but Hambrook opened the door, and the gentlemen went in without having any conversation. The Blue Anchor was a small ale-house.

Sally Newman, servant to Hambrook, deposed that they had only one spare room in the house, that she remembered the foreigners coming, and identified the deal box taken from the chaise.

Thos. Mantell Esq., resident Agent for the Transport Board at Dover: He went on board the Guard ship on the Downs, hearing that the foreigners` boat, the Cat, had been taken. He saw the gentlemen and M. Bouet, who had made his escape.

Mr. Gurney made a most able address to the Jury on behalf of the defendants. He maintained that there was not the slightest evidence to affect the defendant, or to say that he was aiding those men in escaping. If Hambrook could be found Guilty, he would venture that there was not an innkeeper between Chesterfield and Folkestone who furnished a post-chaise or a lodging for the night who might not be indictable. Under the maxim of English law, that all men were deemed innocent till it were proved they were Guilty, were to be laid aside, the Jury could not come to the dreadful conclusion that the defendant was the base, disloyal subject to assist the enemies of his King and country. He then entered into the particulars of the evidence to show that there was nothing in it which showed that the defendant was aiding and assisting in the escape of prisoners of war.

Lord Ellenborough detailed the evidence delivered, dwelling particularly on the expressions used by the landlord, which His Lordship thought very equivocal, and he left it to the Jury to draw what inference they thought proper. His Lordship was much surprised that the French prisoners had not been called for the defendant.

Verdict: Guilty on the first count of concealing and secreting French prisoners of war.

Kentish Chronicle 28-9-1819 

Auction extract:

To be sold by auction by Messrs. White (without reserve). Pursuant to certain orders of the Vice Chancellor of Great Britain, and before the major part of the Commissioners named and authorised in and by a Commission of Bankrupt awarded and issued against Matthew William Sankey, of the city of Canterbury, brewer, dealer and chapman, at the Guildhall of the said city of Canterbury, on Friday, the 15^th day of October, at eleven o`clock in the forenoon (subject to such conditions of sale as shall be then and there produced).

Lot 11: All that copyhold messuage or tenement called the Blue Anchor, with the ground and appurtenances, situate at or near Sea Gate, in Folkestone aforesaid, and now in the occupation of Richard Hambrook – rent 1s. 2d.

N.B. The last lots are Copyholds of Inheritance, and held under the Lord of the Manor of Folkestone.

For further particulars apply to Messrs. Plummer and Son, or Mr. J.J. Pierce, solicitors, Canterbury; or to Messrs. Wiltshire, Bolton and Cole, solicitors, Winchester House, Old Broad Street, London. 

Dover Chronicle 15-6-1839 

Inquest: On Saturday afternoon last an inquest was held by J.J. Bond Esq., Coroner for Folkestone, and a respectable jury, on the body of James Swain, a young man, 33 years of age, who suddenly dropped down dead early that morning.

It appeared in evidence that the deceased, about six o`clock in the morning, was drawing a truck with a small load of dung, which he was taking to his garden on the Lower Sandgate Road, and in an instant fell down and was dead, ere surgical assistance could be procured. He had taken a glass of beer only five minutes before at the Blue Anchor public house, and then seemed in perfect health and complained of no ailment. Mr. Major, the surgeon, was called in to see the body, and was examined on the inquest, but was unable to give any satisfactory opinion as to the cause of death of the deceased.

The Coroner then recommended that the body should be opened to ascertain the cause of death, but the Jury being decidedly averse to that proceeding, and it appearing by the evidence of a brother-in-law of the deceased that Mr. Knight had attended him five years ago, the Jury expressed a wish to have him examined, and he was accordingly sent for.

Mr. Knight stated that about five years ago he attended the deceased, who then complained of pain about the region of the heart. And difficulty of breathing, but whether the complaint arose from organic disease or a sympathetic affection from a disordered state of the stomach and liver, he could not determine. Witness had not attended him medically since that time, but about six or seven months ago deceased overtook him coming up Denton Hill, six or seven miles from Folkestone, and he then complained of the same symptoms as formerly. Witness directed him to come to the surgery on the following morning, that he might, by means of the stethoscope, ascertain more correctly the nature of the complaint, but he did not come. Witness further stated that he had inspected the body of the deceased, and from the previous symptoms, and his past knowledge of the deceased, he was of opinion that death was occasioned by rupture of the blood vessels of the heart.

Upon this the Jury, without consulting, returned a verdict accordingly, that deceased “Died by the visitation of God”.

The deceased was an industrious, hard working man, and has left a wife and three children.  

Kentish Mercury 15-6-1839

About half past six on Saturday morning last Mr. James Swain, labourer, aged 33 years, died of an eruption of one of the blood vessels in the heart. It appears that on the morning in question he got up in apparently good health and, as was his usual custom, went to the Blue Anchor public house and took half a pint of beer, and from thence was proceeding to his garden, near the lower Sandgate Road, with a load of manure. A person named Clout coming along at the time, seeing the deceased fall, ran to his assistance. He sighed twice, and expired. The deceased has left a wife and three children to lament his loss. We hear that he was talking to a gentleman but a minute before, when he appeared to be in good spirits. An inquest was held on the body the same day, when a verdict of “Died by the visitation of God” was passed. 

Dover Chronicle 17-11-1849

Marriage: Nov. 3, at Folkestone, Mr. Jeffries to Miss Jordan, stepdaughter of Mr. Thos. Richardson, Blue Anchor Inn, Folkestone.

Dover Telegraph 24-11-1849

Marriage: Lately, at Folkestone, Mr. Jeffries to Miss Jordan, stepdaughter of Mr. Thomas Richardson, Blue Anchor Inn, Folkestone.

Folkestone Observer 10-2-1866

Wednesday February 7^th:- Before Captain Kennicott R.N. and J. Tolputt Esq.

James Peel, the landlord of the Blue Anchor public house, Queen Street, appeared to answer an information charging him with selling beer durning the prohibited hours on Sunday the 4^th instant.

P.C. Swain said on Sunday morning last about quarter past eleven o`clock, he went to the defendant`s house, called the Blue Anchor, in Queen Street, and after knocking at the door for a few minutes he was admitted. He then saw a man leave the tap room, and on following him saw him go into a small room at the back of the house, and close the door after him. Witness knocked at the door and they refused to open it. He then put his shoulder against the door, and on pushing it partly open found there was a man standing behind it, who upon his asking what he did there replied “Nothing”. There were six men in the room, four of whom were sitting down and two standing up. There was a quart pot on the table, and a glass, both of which contained beer. Witness knew the men, and they were all living in Folkestone. He asked them what they were doing there, to which they made no reply. In the tap room, from which came the first man he saw, there was a quart mug standing on the table, which also contained beer, and a glass. He asked for the landlord, and a woman told him he was not at home.

Defendant said he left home on the Saturday and went to London, and his iwfe being also away the house was left in charge of his wife`s mother, to whom he gave strict injunctions not to draw during the hours prohibited on Sunday, but it would appear that those men had prevailed upon her to do so.

Capt. Kennicott asked if there had been any previous complaint against the defendant.

Supt. Martin replied had had no complaint against the house since defendant had been there, but different complaints having been made he ordered the constable to pay a visit to all the houses, and this case was the result.

The magistrates cautioned the defendant, and told him he had rendered himself liable to a fine of £5. Under the circumstances, however, and from the fact that there had been no previous complaint against him, they were disposed to deal leniently with him this time, but he must be careful for the future.

Fined 5s with costs, making together 14s, which was paid.

Note: More Bastions gives the landlord as John Peel. The address given in the report is wrong, and should read Queen Square.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 24-2-1866

Monday February 19^th:- Before J. Kelcey and R.W. Boarer Esqs.

John Peel, landlord of the Blue Anchor public house, Queen`s Square, appeared on a summons charged with having committed an assault on Rosa Milton on the 16<sup>th</sup> instant. It appeared defendant was brother to the complainant and his relations, not approving of his marriage, were constantly annoying him by sending him filthy letters, and on the day in question he received a most disgusting letter. Believing it to have been sent by his sister and her friends he went to the house to see if he could not put a stop to these annoyances, when they accused him of sending complainant an obscene Valentine, and spat in his face. Defendant admitted that being very much exasperated, he did slap complainant`s face, but did not strike her in the side as complained of.

The magistrates considered the assault proved. There had no doubt been extreme provocation, but defendant had no right to take the law in his own hands. They should, however, only fine him 10s and costs; in default 14 days.

Southeastern Gazette 27-2-1866

Local News

On Monday John Peel, the landlord of the Blue Anchor public house, Folkestone, was summoned (before J. Kelcey and R. Boarer, Eaqrs.) for having assaulted Rosa Milton, on February 16th.

The defendant, who was complainant’s brother, admitted the assault, and said, as his marriage did not suit his relations, they were continually annoying him, and sent him filthy letters like one he produced. Defendant went up to see if he could not put a stop to it, and they (complainant and others) spat in his face, which so exasperated him that he did slap her face, but it was an exaggeration to say that be struck her in the aide.

The magistrates said they knew it was disgraceful to send such letters as the one he had received, but still he was-not justified in committing an assault. They consequently fined him 10s. and costs.  

Kentish Gazette 27-2-1866

 

At the Police Court on Monday, before J. Kelcev, and R W. Boarer, Esqs., a larger attendance than usual of the fair (and in some instances “fat and forty") sex round the doors of the Town Hall showed that some case of special interest was to be heart before the Bench, and the sequel showed that the sending of Valentines is not al­ways conducive to amatory relations between the sender and the recipient.

John Peel, the landlord of the Blue Anchor public house, Folkestone, was summoned for having assaulted Rosa Milton, on February 16^th. Complainant said that her husband was a mariner, and she lived with her mother and sister in Shellons Terrace. On February 16^th she received a letter directed to "Rosa Milton, for you both, both the cap­tain’s wife and the mate's wife,” meaning herself and her sis­ter. There was a Valentine inside the letter, which was very insulting and quite unfit for any person to read. John Peel, the defendant came up to her house about half-past two o'clock the same afternoon and wanted to know what she meant by sending him a letter; she told him she did not send him a letter, upon which he used an expression which cast a slur upon her veracity. Complainant then asked him why he had sent her such a disgusting letter, upon which he began to abuse her, and said he would knock her down as flat as a flounder, following up his threat by striking her on the side with his fist, and the blow would have knocked her down; only her sister was just in time to catch her. He finished his assault by «lapping her lace with his open hand. Complainant said that all these proceed­ings took place in her own house, and that she was in no con­dition to be knocked about by anyone.

Mr. Minter appeared for the defendant, and in answer to his questions, complainant said that John Peel struck her on the right side with his shut fist, and on the face with his open hand; she was standing in­side the front door at the time; her mother was outside, and she told him not to strike her, when he said he would serve her with the same sauce if she interfered; complainant did not spit in defendant's face; could not say if her mother did, but did not see her do it; but this had nothing to do with the letter; she did not write it, but her sister did, and went out of the house to do it.

Charlotte Andrews, wife of William Andrews, mariner, said she lived with her sister (complainant) in Shellons Terrace. The defendant came to their house about three on Friday afternoon. Her sister went to the door, when de­fendant asked her what she meant by sending her that letter She told him that she did not send him any letter, and asked him in turn what he meant by sending her one, when he used bail language, and said he would knock her down a« flat as a flounder, on hearing which witness ran out into the passage by the front door, and saw defendant strike complainant with his fist in her side, and was just in time to save her from falling. "She (complainant) had just time to get up and turn round again when he catched her here" (pointing to the side of her face). Defendant made use of very indecent language.

By Mr. Minter: The indecent language did not shock me - oh no! not at all. Neither of them spat in defendant’s face. Witness admitted that she wrote the letter (a coarse Valentine, with the plain paper written closely all over) produced.

Complainant: Here's the letter he wrote to me.

Mr. Minter said he need only ask the magistrates to read the first paragraph in the letter sent to the defendant to stop the case. He had no witnesses to call, and defendant would admit the assault so far as the charge went of slapping the complainant's face, but he denied having struck her in the side with his fist. The de­fendant was complainant’s brother, and it appeared that his marriage did not suit his relations, and they were continually annoying him in consequence, and sent him filthy letters like the one produced. Defendant went up to see if lie could not put a stop to it, and they spat in his face, which so exasperated him that he did slap his sister's face, but it was an exaggeration to say that he struck her in the side. The origin of the row was this letter, and if it had not been sent there would have been none.

The magistrates said they considered the assault proved, but there had been extreme provocation, without which defendant would have been liable to a heavy penalty. They should fine him 10s., and costs, which was a mitigation of what it would otherwise have been. In default he would be imprisoned for fourteen days. They knew it was disgraceful to send such letters as the one he had received, but still he was not justified in committing an assault. 

Folkestone Express 20-5-1871

Inquest

An inquest was held at the White Lion Inn, Cheriton, on Tuesday on the body of Thomas Laws, aged 23 years. The deceased was found the previous morning in the Brickyard pond. The evidence showed that the deceased resided at Mr. Frederick Brockman`s farm at Cheriton, where he was “second man”. On Sunday afternoon he had dinner with the bailiff; left soon afterwards, being then in his usual health and spirits. About quarter past six in the evening he appears to have called on his uncle at Hawkinge, and having remained an hour at his house gone on to Folkestone, where he called at the Blue Anchor where he had two pints of beer and left about a quarter to ten.

The next morning about a quarter to six a man named Hobday, when going back to work, saw a hat just above the water in the brickpond by the side of the turnpike road, and on going to the pond saw the body of a man in it. He immediately went for assistance and the deceased was taken out of the pond and removed to the White Lion Inn. It would seem that he had been on his way home, and in the dark, attempting to take a short cut, walked into the pond. When searched, a silver watch, the hands of which were stationary at 25 minutes to eleven, was found on him as well as several other articles, including 4s. 6d. in silver and 1½d. in coppers.

The jury, after a short deliberation, returned a verdict of Accidental Death.

Folkestone Express 2-5-1885

Wednesday, April 29^th: Before The Mayor, Aldermen Caister and Sherwood, Captain Fletcher, J. Fitness, J. Clark, W.J. Jeffreason and J. Holden Esqs.

The licence of the Blue Anchor was transferred to Mr. Huson

Folkestone News 2-5-1885

Local News

At the Police Court on Monday, before The Mayor, Captain Carter, J. Fitness, T. Caister, J. Clark, W.J. Jeffreason, J. Sherwood and J. Holden Esqs., the Blue Anchor was transferred to Mrs. Huson

Folkestone Express 21-5-1887

Saturday, May 14^th: Before Colonel De Crespigny, Surgeon General Gilbourne, Alderman Banks and H.W. Poole Esq.

The licence of the Blue Anchor was temporarily transferred to James Snelling.

Note: This transfer appears as William Snelling in More Bastions.

Folkestone Chronicle 23-6-1888

Saturday, June 16^th: Before F. Boykett Esq., Major Poole, Surgeon General Gilbourne, W. Wightwick and J. Brooke Esqs.

William James Snelling, landlord of the Blue Anchor Inn, was summoned for unlawfully opening his house for the sale of intoxicating liquors during a prohibited hour, at twenty minutes past eight on Sunday morning. Mr. Minter appeared for the defendant, who pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Dawson stated that he found two men – Flicker and Richardson – in the defendant`s house. Witness knocked at one door while P.C. Lilley stood at the other. Witness told the landlord that the men had been in the house ten minutes. Flicker said he lodged there, but in answer to witness the landlord said he did not. They had come in there for some beer, but he would not draw it for them. Drew the defendant`s attention to a pint glass, which was standing on the counter amongst some other glasses. Witness said it had contained fresh beer. It was quite wet, and witness could see the head of the beer on it.

By Mr. Minter: There is no back door to the house. Both doors opened into the main streets, so that the defendant would have to open one of the doors to shake his mats.

P.C. Lilley gave corroborative evidence.

Mr. Minter, in defence, stated that the defendant was cleaning out the bar and shaking the mats. The front door being open the men walked in and asked the defendant to serve them with beer, but he refused to do so. They stood there arguing until the constables came in. The glasses had all been there the previous night, and not a drop was drawn that morning. It was merely a question whether the beer in the glass was fresh or not, and he presumed policemen were no judges of beer. (Laughter)

The defendant gave evidence, bearing out Mr. Minter`s statement.

Supt. Taylor said the defendant had had the house for seventeen years, and no complaint whatever had been reported against it.

In consideration of defendant`s good character, and as there was a doubt in the case, it was dismissed.

Note: The seventeen years was a reference to Snelling`s time as landlord of both the Prince Albert and the Blue Anchor.

Folkestone Express 23-6-1888

William James Snelling was charged with having his premises open during prohibited hours for the sale of intoxicating liquors.

P.C. Dawson said that at twenty minutes past eight on Sunday morning he saw two men in Beach Street. He missed them, and waited until another constable came, and he walked round the block of buildings. From what he said, witness went to one door, and Lilley to another of the defendant`s house, the Blue Anchor. Upon entering the house, he saw P.C. Lilley and two men, Richardson and Flicker, in the bar. Flicker stated that he lodged there, and on asking Snelling if it was true, he said “No. They came in here for some beer, and I would not serve them”.

P.C. Lilley corroborated.

The defendant went into the witness box and stated that he had held a licence in Folkestone for 17 years, and had never before had a complaint made against him. On the morning in question he had just been shaking his mats when two men walked in. He did not draw them any beer.

The Bench dismissed the summons.

Southeastern Gazette 25-6-1888

Local News

At the police court on Saturday, William James Snelling was summoned for having his house, the Blue Anchor, open for the sale of intoxicating liquor during prohibited hours.

The case was dismissed   

 

Folkestone Chronicle 30-12-1893

Local News

A mariner named James Noble was charged at the Police Court on Wednesday with being drunk and disorderly in South Street.

P.C. Lawrence stated that he was called to the Victoria Inn, where he found the prisoner in the bar. He was very drunk and he was banging his fist down on the counter, stating that he would fight the landlord. When witness was requested to eject prisoner he said he would not go out for him, and if he would take his coat off he would like to fight him.

In answer to the Bench the prisoner said he got most of the drink he had had at the Victoria.

The Magistrates` Clerk: Landlords let men get drunk in their houses and then have them turned out by the police, and naturally they get angry.

Supt. Taylor said it was a common occurrence for landlords to allow men to get drunk and then have the police to turn them out. The landlords did not avail themselves of the clause in the Licensing Act by which they could prosecute a man for refusing to quit licensed premises, but they preferred the police to do their dirty work. He should have to consider whether he should not take proceedings in this case for allowing drunkenness on the premises.

Mr. Watson, the landlord of the Victoria, said when the prisoner entered their house he said he had had “fourteen pints” at another house, and no man could drink fourteen pints without being drunk.

The Mayor said the Bench had decided to look upon the case in a lenient manner, and would fine the prisoner 5s. and 4s. 6d. costs, or in default seven days imprisonment.

Folkestone Express 30-12-1893

Wednesday, December 27^th: Before The Mayor, Aldermen Pledge and Sherwood, and J. Fitness Esq.

James Noble was charged with being drunk and disorderly in South Street on Boxing Day. He pleaded Guilty.

P.C. Lawrence said the defendant was very drunk at the Victoria, and Mr. Watson asked witness to eject him. He refused to leave South Street, and was therefore taken into custody.

The Magistrates` Clerk (to defendant): What time did you go to the house? – In the afternoon.

Were you sober when you went? – Yes.

You were there all the afternoon, till you got drunk? – I went out and came back again. I can`t remember when. I remember Watson striking me.

Where did you get drunk? – I got most of the drink in his house.

Superintendent Taylor said that it was a case in which he thought it necessary to send for the landlord. It was a very common occurrence for men to go to a public house and remain till they got drunk, and then, because they got noisy, the landlord sent for the police and had the offenders put into the street, where, being naturally annoyed at being ejected, they became disorderly, and often assaulted the police. In that case he sent for the landlord, and he was in court. He should have to consider whether or not it was a case in which he should have to summon him for permitting drunkenness on his premises.

James Wilson, the landlord, said when the defendant entered his house he said he had drunkl 14 pints of beer in the Blue Anchor, and he could not have drunk 14 pints of beer without being pretty well drunk.

Mr. Bradley: If you are going to be summoned, you had better keep your mouth closed.

Defendant said he never went into the Blue Anchor on the previous day.

The Mayor said the Bench had decided to look on the case in a very lenient way. Defendant would be fined 6s. and 4s. 6d. costs, or 14 days`.

Folkestone Express 6-1-1894

Local News

Mr. C. Norman, of the Blue Anchor Inn, writes to say that the man Noble, convicted of drunkenness in South Street last week, had not been in his house that day, and that Noble`s statement to that effect was quite true. He adds that he always has conducted his house in an orderly manner, and would not knowingly serve a drunken man.

 

Folkestone Chronicle 21-4-1894

Local News

Transfer

 

The following transfer was granted at the Police Court on Wednesday: Blue Anchor, Beach Street, to James Hamilton

 

Folkestone Chronicle 7-12-1894

Local News

At the Police Court on Wednesday two mariners named Hart and Mackay were each fined 5s. and 9s. costs for being drunk at the Blue Anchor on Tuesday the 27^th ult.

They were found by P.C. Knowles, who proved the charge.

Folkestone Express 8-12-1894

Wednesday, December 5^th: Before J. Fitness and J.R. Davy Esqs.

Benjamin Hart and John Macey, seamen, were charged with being drunk on licensed premises on the 27^th November. Defendants pleaded Not Guilty.

P.C. Knowles said he was called to the Blue Anchor in Seagate Street, and saw the two defendants rolling about in the bar, drunk. The landlady pointed to the defendants and wanted them put out. They refused to go, and he ejected Hart and then went back and ejected Mackay (sic).

Mrs. James Hamilton, the landlady of the Blue Anchor, was called by the defendants, and said she knew the defendants, who went to her house at about 5.30 on the 27^th November and remained about one hour and a half, and during that time they were served with a pint and a half of beer. They were perfectly sober, and all she sent for the constable for was because they were singing and would not leave the house.

The Bench considered the case proved, and fined them each 9s. and 5s. costs, or in default 7 days hard labour.

One of the defendants asked for time to pay, but the Superintendent objected and pointed out to the Bench that this was one of those cases in which the police were made fools of, and when proceedings were instituted, the charge of drunkenness was denied. He would make a special report of this case at the next licensing sessions.

 

Folkestone Herald 8-12-1894

Local News

At the Borough Court on Wednesday, John Mackay and Benjamin Hart, young seamen, were convicted of having been drunk on the night of the 27^th ult., on the licensed premises of Mrs. Hamilton, Blue Anchor Inn, Beach Street.

P.C. Knowles, who had been sent for, ejected the men.

Each was fined 5s., with 9s. costs. Paid.

Folkestone Visitors` List 14-8-1895

Police Court Jottings

A case of considerable interest to local traders was heard by the Borough Magistrates on Saturday morning.

It appears that Mrs. Hartley, a wholesale china and earthenware merchant at Dover sold a quantity of glass to Mr. Beaton, landlord of the Blue Anchor public house, at Folkestone. The local Inspector of Weights and Measures, in the course of his round, discovered that the glasses had been stamped with the number of the Ramsgate district, and this stamp was found to be a forgery. A summons was consequently issued against Mrs. Hartley, and on Saturday she was represented by her son, who acts as manager in the business.

Mr. Minter, solicitor, prosecuted on behalf of the Town Council, and Mr. Welch, the Inspector of Weights and Measures for the Borough of Folkestone, stated that for some time he had had suspicion that in several houses in teh town glasses were used that were not properly stamped. Amongst other public houses he called at, he went to the Blue Anchor, and found a quantity of pint and half pint glasses which bore the stamp of the Ramsgate and Sandwich division, and which turned out to be a forgery. He eventually saw the defendant`s son, and manager, who stated that the glasses had been stamped by a man named Solley, who was in their employ as traveller. The stamp itself was a crown, with the letters “V.R.”, and the number “353”, which indicated the Sandwich district. The Folkestone number was “573”. These marks were made on the glass by means of an Indiarubber stamp and an acid. After he saw the defendant at Dover, the manager called on him at the Weights and Measures office at Folkestone, and admitted that the stamps were at the shop, that they belonged to Solley, and eventually they were sent to witness by post.

Henry John Luckhurst, Inspector for the Sandwich division of the county, stated that the number was that of his district. No person had any authority except himself to use that number. The stamp on the glass found at Mr. Beaton`s premises was a forgery. He was certain of this, because he had never stamped any glasses in his district – in fact he had no machine or rubber for doing so.

Thomas S. Morgan, Chief Inspector of Weights and Measures for the county of Kent, produced a list of the divisions in the county, together with the order of the Board of Trade approving the said schedule of districts and numbers. The Ramsgate number was 353, and the Folkestone number 573.

John Mark Hartley consented to be sworn and give evidence for the prosecution. He admitted that the glass found at Mr. Beaton`s had been supplied from his mother`s warehouse. He charged more than the ordinary price because they had been stamped by Solley. He had paid Solley for doing so, and therefore received no benefit from the stamping.

Capt. Carter, who was in the chair, said that the offence was a very serious one, and it had been proved to the satisfaction of the Bench that the defendant had supplied glasses bearing a mark and number of the County Council, that had been a forgery. The Bench had come to a conclusion that the defendant must be punished, and she was liable to a fine of £10. As the costs in this case were, however, somewhat heavy, the Bench would take this into consideration and fine the defendant only £3, with costs £4 5s. 3d., or in default one month`s imprisonment with hard labour.

Folkestone Chronicle 16-8-1895

Local News

On Saturday last, before the Folkestone Borough Bench, a remarkable and novel case was heard, when Mrs. Hartley, glass dealer, 17. Cannon Street, Dover, was charged with selling a number of half pint glasses bearing a forged stamp. The charge was made under the Weights and Measures Act, 1878, section 32. The prosecution was taken up by Mr. Welch, Inspector of Weights and Measures for the Folkestone Corporation, and was legally supported by Mr. John Minter, solicitor. Defendant had not the assistance of legal representation.

Her son, John Hartley, appeared for her, and said his mother suffered from heart disease, and was not strong enough to attend, whilst he had entire management of her business, the details of which she was not conversant with.

Mr. Minter explained that the glasses were sold to a man named Beaton, who was the landlord of the Blue Anchor Inn. Beaton had been summoned to attend that Court and give evidence in support of the charge, but his medical man had just informed the prosecution that Beaton was not in a state of health which would permit his attendance. Beaton was an important witness, as without his evidence he did not see how the prosecution would be able to prove that the glasses had been sold.

Harley said he would admit selling the glasses to Beaton, and would admit, too the service of the summons upon his mother to attend.

Dr. Murray was then put into the witness box, and said:  I am attending Beaton, who is not fit to be present here today, as he is suffering from complete nervous prostration, owing to illness among his family lately, and other causes. He is confined to his bedroom, and will not be able to attend the Court until after 10 days or a fortnight`s time.

Mr. Minter said the case was taken for the prosecution under the Weights and Measures Act, 1878, section 32, which stated that any person who sold or offered for sale a measure bearing a false stamp was liable to a fine not exceeding £10. The defendant, Mrs. Hartley, of 17 Cannon Street, Dover, was a glass merchant, employing travellers to sell glasses, and one of her travellers had called upon Beaton, a publican in the town, and sold some glasses to him which required to be stamped with the Government stamp, and which had since been delivered to Beeton by a carrier named Anderson, who, at the request of Beaton, took the money for the glasses, and gave him the receipt for them. The Folkestone Inspector of Weights and Measures had had his suspicions for some time that forged stamps were being used on glasses in the town, and called at Beaton`s house, where he found glasses bearing a stamp which was an undoubted forgery. It appeared that defendant had been employing a man named Solley to forge these stamps. Proceedings were not being taken against the defendant for forging the stamps, a penalty of which was not exceeding £50, because that offence had not been committed in the Folkestone district, and it would be for the Dover authorities to deal with that. The prosecution that day was for selling the forgery, and he should produce evidence to prove that the stamp was certainly a forgery.

Stephen Anderson, carrier from Folkestone to Dover and back, said: In April last I received a crate of glass from Mrs. Hartley for delivery to Mr. Beaton at the Blue Anchor in this town. I also received this invoice from John Hartley of “One dozen stamped fluted pints, and one half dozen ditto half pints”. I received the sum of 7s. 10½d. from Beaton, and receipted the invoice, and took the money back to Dover, giving it either to Mr. Hartley or to the lady in charge of the shop.

Hartley asked witness no questions, and Anderson was allowed to leave the Court, at his request, to attend to his business.

The next witness called was James Stephen Welch, Inspector of Weights and Measures for the Folkestone Corporation. He said: I went to the Blue Anchor Inn of Friday, July 5^th last, where I seized four half pint glasses (produced) which bear a stamp with a crown and “V.R. 353”. The stamp is made on the glass by means of an Indiarubber stamp and an acid.

By a Magistrate: What does the number represent?

Mr. Minter: It is the number of the Inspector of Sandwich district, Folkestone being 573.

Witness (continuing): I went to defendant`s premises, No. 17, Cannon Street, Dover, where I saw John Hartley, and before I left I informed him who I was, and told him I had a number of glasses which I had seized from various public houses in Folkestone bearing a forged stamp, which had been supplied by him. John Hartley soon after called on me in Folkestone, and said he did not want to be brought into a police court, and after first saying he knew nothing of the stamping, admitted that the glasses had been stamped by the man Solley on his premises. Two days afterwards Harley sent the rubber stamps (produced) by post.

Henry John Luckhurst, Inspector of Weights and Measures for the Ramsgate and Sandwich districts, said: The stamping number of my district is 353, and no-one else is entitled to use them according to the Kent County regulations, approved by the Board of Trade. The glass produced bears a copy of the stamp employed in my district, which is undoubtedly a forgery, no-one having authority to use it but me. I have never stamped any glasses at all, and have not got the apparatus for doing so.

Thomas H. Morgan, Chief Inspector of Weight and Measures for the County, said: The number of the Ramsgate district is 353 according to the Board of Trade.

Inspector Welch, re-called, said he had no conversation with Hartley as to the case of Beaton.

John Hartley admitted the glass was one sold by his mother`s firm. He was thereupon sworn, and said: I believe the glass to have been sold by us to Mr. Beaton. It was stamped by Solley, with the stamps sent on to Mr. Welch. We charged extra for the glasses – just what Solley charged us for stamping them – but made no extra profit on them. I may say I have paid Solley for all the work he has done for me, and that I have derived no benefit from any stamping that he or anyone else has done for me.

Captain Carter, the presiding Magistrate, said the offence was a serious one, and the costs entailed were heavy. The Bench would take the amount of costs into consideration in estimating the fine, but under the circumstances the least fine they could impose was one of £3 3s., with £4 5s. 5d. costs.

Mr. Minter asked that the advocate`s fee should also be allowed, as the case was one where a solicitor was necessary, and he did not think it would be right for the town to have to bear that expense.

The Bench concurred in this opinion, and allowed solicitor`s costs.

The money was paid.

Folkestone Express 17-8-1895

Saturday, August 10^th: Before J. Fitness Esq., Captain Willoughby Carter, Aldermen Pledge and Sherwood, T.J. Vaughan and J. Holden Esqs.

Mrs. Jane Harley, of Dover, was summoned for selling glasses to a publican, bearing a forged stamp.

Mr. Minter appeared for the prosecution. The defendant`s son, who is the manager of the business, appeared for her, and was not represented by a solicitor. Mr. Minter said the glasses were sold to a person named Beeton, who was ill and unable to attend, and he was afraid therefore they would have to adjourn the case.

Mr. Harley said he was prepared to admit the glasses produced were sold to Beeton. He had authority from the defendant to do so, but she knew nothing at all about the case.

Mr. Minter then called Dr. Murray to prove Beeton was unable, owing to the state of his health, to be present. As it was a Corporation prosecution, only Captain Carter and Mr. Fitness adjudicated.

Mr. Minter gave an outline of the case, and called the following evidence:-

Stephen Anderson, a carrier from Folkestone to Dover, said he received a crate of glass from Mrs. Harley for delivery to Beeton, at the Blue Anchor, Folkestone, and he also received a number of stamped fluted pint glasses, and also half a dozen fluted half pint glasses from Mrs. John Harley, and received 7s. 10½d. from Beeton, which he took to Mrs. Harley`s at Dover.

James Welch, the Inspector of Weights and Measures, said he went to the Blue Anchor on Friday, July the 5^th, and there seized four half pint glasses. That produced bore the stamp, a crown, V.R. 353, made by means of an Indiarubber stamp and an acid.

Mr. Minter said that indicated Sandwich district.

Witness said the Folkestone district was numbered 573. He went to Cannon Street, Dover, and saw Mr. Harley. He did not tell him who he was at first, but did after. He told Mr. Harley he had seized a number of glasses in Folkestone which had been stamped with a forged stamp, and supplied by him. The day after, Mr. Harley called on him. He said he would rather it was not brought into a police court. He said he had not stamped the glasses, but afterwards he admitted that they had been stamped on his premises by a man named Solly. There were two methods of stamping – by a sand instrument and by an acid. Harley admitted that the glasses were stamped with an Indiarubber stamp by Solly. Witness asked him to hand the stamps over, and Harley sent them by post. There were several other cases, but that was the only one he had taken.

Mr. Minter said he could get the whole paraphernalia for about 15s.

Henry John Luckhurst, Inspector of Weights and Measures for the Sandwich and Ramsgate Divisions under the Kent County Council, said the Ramsgate district was 353. (Mr. Minter produced the regulations made by the Kent County Council, and referred to Section 9, by which the model regulations of the Board of Trade were adopted.) The glass produced was stamped with a copy of the design of the Ramsgate district, and was forged. No-one but himself had authority to use it. He had never stamped any glasses at all in either division. He had no sand machines, and no rubber stamps.

Mr. Bradley: They are very good reasons.

Mr. Minter: Very good, indeed.

Thomas H. Morgan, Chief Inspector of the County of Kent, residing at Ashford, said the number allotted to Ramsgate was 353.

Mr. Welch was re-called, and said he could only say from what Mr. Beeton told him that the glass produced was stamped by Mr. Harley.

Mr. Harley admitted the glass was stamped at his premises. He went into the box and gave evidence to that effect. He also said they only charged the actual cost of stamping charged by Solly. He had no doubt he delivered the crate of glass to Anderson.

Mr. Minter said if the Dover authorities did their duty they would look after Solly, who had been stamping thousands of glasses.

Defendant`s son said he paid Solly for stamping the glasses, and got no benefit whatever from it.

Mr. Bradley: It seems you got them stamped by the wrong person.

The Bench imposed a fine of £3 3s., and costs £4 5s. 5d., and Captain Carter said it was a serious case, the maximum penalty being £10, and if the costs had not been so heavy, the fine would have been greater.

Folkestone Herald 17-8-1895

Police Court Jottings

Mrs. Jane Harley, Cannon Street, Dover, was charged with selling glasses on which a forged stamp had been used. Mr. Minter, solicitor, prosecuted.

In opening the case he said that the witness who purchased the glasses was unable to be present; his name was Beeton, and he was landlord of the Blue Anchor Inn, Beach Street.

John Harley, who represented his mother, said he admitted the selling of the glasses.

Dr. Murray stated that he was attending Mr. Beeton, who was suffering from nervous prostration, and was not able to attend.

Mr. Minter said that Mrs. Harley carries on the business of a glass and earthenware merchant at Cannon Street, Dover. Mr. Beeton gave an order for some glasses, which were delivered by a carrier named Anderson, who received the money. The Inspector of Weights and Measures suspected that forged stamps were being used in the town, and at the Blue Anchor he found several glasses that appeared to bear the stamp of the division, but on examination they were found to be forgeries. The defendant had been employing a man named Solly to do this stamping. As the defendant lives out of this district, they could not prosecute her for the stamping, but they could for selling the glasses here.

Stephen Anderson deposed that he is a carrier between Dover and Folkestone. He received the package of glasses to deliver to Mr. Beeton at the Blue Anchor; also an invoice for a dozen pint and a dozen half pint glasses from Mr. John Harley. Witness took the money back.

Mr. J.S. Welch, Inspector of Weights and Measures, said that on July 5^th he went to the Blue Anchor public house and seized four half pint glasses. The impression was made by an Indiarubber stamp and an acid. The stamp on the glass bore the number of the Sandwich Inspector, 353. Witness went to the defendant`s premises after the seizure, and told Mr. John Harley that he had seized some glasses in Folkestone which bore a forged stamp, and were supplied by defendant. He called at witness`s office and said he would rather not appear at a police court, but admitted that they had been stamped in his shop by a man named Solly, who owned the stamp, which was kept in Harley`s shop.

Mr. Kuckhurst, Inspector of Weights and Measures for Sandwich and Ramsgate, said the number for the Ramsgate district was 353. No-one else was entitled to use that number. The glass produced was stamped with a copy of the design of witness`s district, and was forged. Witness said he had not yet stamped any glasses in either of the divisions. He had not a rubber stamp.

Mr. John Harley, called as a witness, and examined by Mr. Minter, said he was manager in the shop for his mother. The glasses were stamped by Solly. They charged extra for glasses which were stamped. He had sent the stamp to Mr. Welch. Witness was authorised to make the admissions he had made. With regard to the stamping, he had paid Mr. Solly for doing this.

Fined £3 and £4 5s. 3d. costs, or one month`s imprisonment.

   

Folkestone Up To Date 17-8-1895

Hall Of Justice

On Saturday last an important case was heard under the Weights And Measures Act.

It appeared that an earthenware dealer of Dover had sold to a Folkestone publican some glasses bearing a stamp similar to that which ought to be in use in the Ramsgate division. As a matter of fact there is no stamp in use at present in that division.

There is no doubt, from the evidence given, that the earthenware dealer was acting in blissful ignorance of the provisions of the Weights And Measures Act. This ignorance of the law cost him ten pounds.

Folkestone Chronicle 31-7-1897

Friday, July 30^th: Before Messrs. Pursey and Salter.

John Pearce was in custody on a charge of being drunk and disorderly on the previous day.

P.C. Stannage stated that at seven o`clock, by request, he proceeded to the Blue Anchor Inn, where he was asked by the landlord to assist in ejecting prisoner, who was there drunk. The man was very violent, and used disgustingly obscene language. It took five men to get him to the office, and policemen had to be stationed outside the office to warn people not to loiter near, as, the ventilators being open, his swearing and cursing could be heard all over the Market Place.

Prisoner expressed deep regret for what had happened. He had joined a ship the previous day, and did not want to lose it; he therefore asked the Bench to allow him time to pay the fine of 5s. and 9s. 6d. costs imposed.

This, however, they were not prepared to do, and Pearce was removed to the cells.

Folkestone Express 7-8-1897

Friday, July 30^th: Before C.J. Pursey Esq., and Alderman Salter.

John Pearce, a sailor, was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Beach Street on Thursday evening.

P.C. Strange said he was called by the landlord of the Blue Anchor to eject prisoner. He used very abusive language, and on taking him into custody it took five men to get him to the Police Station.

Superintendent Taylor said for hours after Pearce was locked up he kept up such a fearful row of obscenity that they had to warn people not to go through the Market Place.

The Bench inflicted a fine of 5s. and 4s. 6d. costs, or in default seven days` hard labour. Prisoner went to prison.

Folkestone Express 20-11-1897

Friday, November 12^th: Before The Mayor, Alderman Banks, W. Wightwick, and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Thomas Reilly was charged with stealing from a hut on the 8^th November a live tame rabbit, value 4s., the property of William Stone, of 21, Mill Bay.

Prosecutor, a labourer, said the rabbit produced was his, and it was kept at the back of his house in a hutch in Mill Bay in the yard. He saw it on Monday evening at seven o`clock. At nine o`clock he saw the door of the hutch was open, and on going to look for the rabbit found it was gone. He saw it again on Thursday in the possession of a man named Bell, at 38, Bradstone Road. Its value was 4s. The yard was open to several houses, and prisoner had been there several times.

William John Bell, of 38, Bradstone Road, a mariner, said he bought the rabbit of prisoner at the Blue Anchor about a quarter to nine on Monday night. Prisoner asked half a crown for it, and witness bought it for 2s. and a pint of beer. Prisoner said it was his rabbit, but he had no convenience for keeping it.

Sergeant Dunster apprehended the prisoner and charged him with the theft. He said “Yes. I bought the rabbit from a man they call “Chalky Harry””. Afterwards he said he bought it from a man called “Bricky Tom”. At the police station, when charged, he said he did not steal the rabbit – ho bought it from another man and gave 1s. for it.

Prisoner persisted that he bought it, but did not know whether he could find the man from whom he bought it. He was remanded tillMonday.

Monday, November 15^th: Before W. Wightwick and W.G. Herbert Esqs.

Thomas Reilly, who had been remanded on Friday, was charged with stealing a rabbit.

Joseph Compron, of 14, Radnor Street, said he was in the bar of the Wonder Tavern on Monday evening, when he saw “Navvy Tom” speaking to prisoner. Afterwards they went out, and when they came in prisoner was carrying a parcel. Prisoner gave Tom a shilling and called for a quart of beer.

Adelaide Warman, of the Providence Inn, said that “Navvy Tom” came into the bar one night, and asked her if she wanted to buy a tame rabbit. She said “No”.

The Chairman: Well, prisoner, although you have called these witnesses, there seems no doubt that you stole the rabbit. We might send you to prison, but we think a fine will answer the purpose. We shall fine you £1, and in default you will have to go to prison for 14 days.

Folkestone Chronicle 17-9-1898

Wednesday, September 14^th: Before Messrs. J. Banks, J. Fitness, W.G. Herbert, W. Wightwick, and C.J. Pursey.

Mrs. Worsley was granted the transfer of the Blue Anchor, formerly held by her late husband

Folkestone Up To Date 17-9-1898

Wednesday, September 14^th: Before Ald. Banks, J. Fitness, W.G. Herbert, W. Wightwick, and C.J. Pursey Esqs.

Transfer was made to Mrs. Ellen Worsley, Blue Anchor Inn (Mr. Watts, solicitor, for applicant)

Note: Ellen Worsley not listed in More Bastions

  

Folkestone Herald 17-9-1898

Police Court Record

On Wednesday transfer was granted to Mrs. Worsley, Blue Anchor

Note: This transfer is not listed in More Bastions.

   

Folkestone Chronicle 21-1-1899

Wednesday, January 18^th: Before Messrs. Willoughby Carter, Pledge, Vaughan and Holden.

Licence Transfer

Blue Anchor, Seagate Street, from Ellen Worsley to James Bugg.

 

Folkestone Express 21-1-1899

Wednesday, January 18^th: Before Capt. Carter, James Pledge, John Holden, and T.J. Vaughan Esqs.

Mr. Haines applied for the transfer of the licence of the Blue Anchor, Seagate Street, to Mr. James Budd. Granted.

Folkestone Herald 21-1-1899

Folkestone Police Court

On Wednesday last transfer was granted to the following: Mr. Berg (sic), Blue Anchor

Folkestone Up To Date 21-1-1899

Wednesday, January 18^th: Before Captain Willoughby Carter, J. Pledge, J. Holden, and T.J. Vaughan Esqs.

On the application of Mr. Haines, the Blue Anchor, Seagate Street, formerly kept by Mrs. Worsley, to Mr. James Budd (sic).