News Snippets between 1840 and 1849

What follows are news snippets with Crich Parish interest from various newspapers between 1840 and 1849.

As with all transcriptions there could be "typos" which is always a possibilty with audio trancriptions, although care has been taken.

The following index shows parish names that appear in some of the reports – allow for spelling variations and omissions are possible owing to human error.

ALLEN CARLINE HATFIELD MARSON SWINDELL
ALSOP CARSON HAYNES MATHER SYKES
AMATT CASONS HAYS MACKARSIE TAYLOR
BACON CAWOOD HENSTOCK MILLS THOMPSON
BAKER CHEETHAM HIGTON NIGHTINGALE TOPHAM
BARNES COLLEDGE HILL NOBLE TRAVIS
BASFORD COUPE HOLLINGWORTH OAKSLEY VALLANCE
BEARDSLEY COWLISHAW HURT POYSER WALKER
BERRISFORD CURZON HYDES RADFORD WALL
BESTWICK DAWES JACKSON REDFERN WHEATCROFT
BLOUNT DRURY JEFFRIES ROE WIGHTMAN
BOLLINGTON ELSE JONES SAXTON WIGLEY
BOOTH FLETCHER KIRKLAND SHIPLEY WILLGOOSE
BOWMER FLINT KNEEBONE SIMPSON WILSON
BOWNES FOSTER KNOWLES SLACK WITHAM
BRAILSFORD FRITCHLEY LEAM SMITH WOOD
BRETLAND FROST LEE SPENDLOVE WOOLAT
BRIDDON GREGORY LEWIS STEVENS  
BURLEY HALL LOWE STEVENSON  
BURTON HARRISON LUDLAM STOCKS  
BUXTON HASLAM MARSHALL SUMMERSIDE HITCHCOCK

In the transcriptions names have been capitalised to aid quick searches.

Common abbreviations used in the newspaper reports are: ult. [ulimo] meaning the previous month; inst. [instant] meaning the current month, se'nnight [sevennights] meaning a week and &c. meaning et cetera.

At this time, Wessington ( also recorded as Washington), Tansley and part of Holloway were within Crich parish.

Alderwasley although not part of Crich parish had a great many close connections, mainly through the HURT family of Alderwasley who were "Lords of the Manor" owing large parts of the parish. They were also great benefactors to the parish. Consequently it is approriate to include relevent snippets of that place.

1840 newspapers

Derby Mercury 8 January 1840
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Thursday last, by the Rev T. CARSON, vicar, George, eldest son of Mr R.W. SMITH, butcher, to Miss BOWNES, both of Crich.

Derbyshire Courier 25 January 1840
DEATHS
At Fritchley, near Crich, on Tuesday last, Hannah, wife of Mr Joseph HASLAM.

Derby Mercury 11 March 1840
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 26th ult. Elizabeth CURZON, widow of the late Wm. CURZON, of Bull Bridge

Derbyshire Courier 4 April 1840
DEATHS
At Crich, on Saturday last, in the prime of life, Samuel, son of the late Thomas SMITH, of Doehole-lane, in the parish of Crich.
At Holloway, near Crich, on Tuesday last, Elizabeth KNOWLES, at an advanced age.

Derby Mercury 29 April 1840
MARRIAGES
At Clifton, near Bristol, on the 16th instant, Mr Robert Horatio SAXTON, second son of John SAXTON, Esq, of Crich, in this county, to Miss SKIPWITH only daughter of Mrs SKIPWITH, of Nottingham.
On the 27th instant at Duffield, Mr Ard [sic] Henry SAXTON, third son of John SAXTON Esq, of Crich, to Miss WALKER, daughter of Mr Isaac WALKER, of Wingfield Park, both in this county.
At Crich, on Monday, the 20th instant, by the Rev CARSON, vicar, Mr John TWIGG, to Miss Elizabeth HILLMAN, both of Tansley.

Derby Mercury 10 June 1840
DEATHS
On 29 April, at Crich, Mr H MARSHALL, in the 54th year of his age, much respected.

Derbyshire Courier 5 September 1840
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 31st ult., Mary, daughter of Mr BOWNES’s, in her 20th year.

Derbyshire Courier 26 September 1840
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 13th instant, Mary Jane, wife of Mr John JACKSON, aged 36 years.

Derbyshire Courier 3 October 1840
DEATHS
At Crich Cliff, on the 28th instant, Mr WILSON, at an advanced age.

Derbyshire Courier 24 October 1840
MARRIAGES
At Crich on the 12 instant, by the Rev T. CARSON, vicar, Mr William KNEEBONE, to Miss WIGLEY, of the Pot-house, near Crich.

Derby Mercury 25 November 1840
Her Majesty the Queen Dowager with that considerable kindness which she always shows for the religious instruction of the poor has graciously forwarded £10 towards the building of a Sunday School at Wessington in the parish of Crich. The inhabitants of Wessington are deeply indebted to the Earl Howe for his readiness in laying their case before her Majesty .

1841 newspapers

Derbyshire Courier 30 January 1841
DEATHS
At Crich, on Friday week, to the inexpressible grief of her parents, Elizabeth, the only beloved unlamented child of Mr Thomas LEE, in the 9th year of her age.
On the 25th instant, at Alderwasley, Henrietta, wife of Mr CARLILE, aged 67.

Derby Mercury 3 February 1841
DEATHS
At Crich Carr on Tuesday week, Mary the wife of Francis AMATT, aged 27 years.

Derby Mercury 3 March 1841
DEATHS
On the 27th ult., at the Edge Farm. near Crich, Lot BEARDSLEY, gent, in the 60th year of his age. His integrity of heart and uprightness of principle, will long endear his memory to a numerous circle of friends.

Derbyshire Courier 13 March 1841
Thomas CURZON, of Crich, committed to hard labour for one month, for trespassing on the lands of Mr William BOOTH, of Crich.

Derby Mercury 5 May 1841
Benjamin SMITH, of Crich, committed to hard labour for two months, for poaching in the parish of Crich.

Derby Mercury 12 May 1841
DEATHS
At Crich, on Monday, the 25th ult., Mary, widow of the late Mr Samuel ROE, Greyhound Inn, Crich, in the 80th year of her age.
On Friday, the 30th ult., at Dark-Lane, Crich, Mr Joseph BLOUNT, aged 66 years.

Derbyshire Courier 11 September 1841
MARRIAGES
On the 31st ult., at Crich Matlock, by the Rev W.R. MELVILLE, Mr George SAXTON, of Crich, to Miss WITHERS, daughter of Mr WITHERS, goldsmith and jeweller, Matlock Bath.

Derby Mercury 17 November 1841
MARRIAGES
On Monday, the 15th instant, at Crich, by the Rev Thomas CARSON, Mr E GERMAN, Staveley, near Kendal, Westmorland, to Marianne, only daughter of the late Mr William CAWOOD, of the former place.

1842 newspapers

Derbyshire Courier 15 January 1842
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Friday, the seventh instant, at Crich, on the body of Sarah BARNES, who died the Wednesday night previous. It appeared that the deceased had gone upstairs for the purpose of retiring to rest, and on complaining of illness returned downstairs and died in a short time – Verdict “Natural death.”

Derbyshire Courier 12 February 1842
WIRKSWORTH
F. HURT Esq, of Alderwasley, has, during the late severe storm, afforded a very liberal supply of soup to many of the poor of Alderwasley, Whatstandwell, and Crich Carr, twice a week. The Misses HURT have also visited the labouring classes, and very kindly and opportunely relieved those in distress, with clothing and coals, and in many instances with money, in sums varying from 5s to 10s to a family, which gifts have been very thankfully received, and have relieved the present distress of many poor families.

Derbyshire Courier 5 March 1842
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
And on Tuesday, at Crich, on the body of Sarah TAYLOR, a child of the age of 9 months, whose death was reported to have been occasioned by violence, but upon a careful examination it appeared that the child died from disease, and the jury returned a verdict to that effect.

Derbyshire Courier 30 April 1842
DEATHS
At Amber Mill, Crich, on the 23rd instant, Thomas, son of Mr Thomas LUDLAM, miller, aged 18.
A Crich, on the 21st instant, Sarah, wife of Mr William KNEEBONE, aged 20.
Same place, on Saturday last, and the house of Mr Humphrey GREGORY, Elizabeth GREGORY, Tetlow, in the 19th year of her age.

Derby Mercury 15 June 1842
COMMITTED TO DERBY GAOL
Samuel TAYLOR, of Crich, fined £1.16s.0d, or one months imprisonment, for an assault upon Isaac WALKER.

Derbyshire Courier 25 June 1842
GARDEN ROBBERIES AT CRICH AND HOLLOWAY
On Saturday night or Sunday morning last, a quantity of early potatoes were stolen from a garden belonging to Mr John ELSE, Holloway, near Crich. On the same night or morning, the garden belonging to Mr Isaac HARRISON, King’s Arms Inn, Crich, was robbed of a bed of fine tripoli onions, and a bed of lettuce. And on Sunday night or Monday morning, a quantity of very fine broccoli plans were stolen from the garden belonging to Mr W.F. HALL, the Academy, Crich Common. A handsome reward is offered by Mr H., in conjunction with the Crich Association for the prosecution of felons, for such information as will convict the party or parties.

Friday 15 July 1842 The True Colonist Van Dieman’s Land Hobart Tasmania
On Tuesday evening the town of Crich was the scene of great disturbance and confusion. The principal part of the inhabitants, to show their disapprobation of Sir Robert Peel’s proposed scheme for the Corn laws, made an effigy of Sir Robert, of straw and old clothes and carried it around the town. It was received with shouting and hooting as it passed along. After the town had been perambulated, Sir Robert Peel -  the man of straw - was burnt near the King’s Arms, amidst the most dismal yells, hisses and groans. In the Market Place, some scoundrel picked Sir Robert’s pocket of a watch, made of a large turnip, and having part of a plough chain and an iron bolt, for the chain and key. The scoundrel has yet escaped detection.     The Derbyshire Chronicle

Derby Mercury 3 August 1842
William SMITH, aged 21, pleaded guilty to stealing on 8 July, at Crich, a pick, the property of William MILLS, a fellow-workmen – two months imprisonment.

Derby Mercury 21 September 1842
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Thursday last, at Crich, on the body of William MATHER, a child of the age of nine years, who died the day but one before from the effects of an injury which he received at the back of his head from one of the sales of a windmill, the Saturday previous.

The Derbyshire and Chesterfield Reporter 15th September 1842
The report stated that Mrs MATHER, a neighbour of the windmill and of John BURTON the miller, had only one child, a little lad of around eight. The windmill fascinated the little boy and he played close to the mill. On the previous Saturday he had taken shelter from heavy rain in the mill, but the miller shooed him away. The lad returned later and, innocently climbing up to the stage around the tower, the massive sail caught his head, wounding him fatally. Mr HALL, the Crich surgeon, used all his skill to save the child’s life but without hope.
[Note : Burton's windmill was at Coddington, there were two others in the parish. See Crich Windmills]

Derby Mercury 21 September 1842
MARRIAGES
On Saturday, the 17th instant, at Crich, by the Rev T. CARSON, Mr John ABBOTT, of Breaston, to Catherine, third daughter of Mr SWINNERTON, of this town.

Derbyshire Courier 1 October 1842
DEATH
At Crich, on Friday, the 23rd instant, Caroline, wife of Mr Samuel DRURY, aged 44 years.
Same day, at Crich, Rebecca NOBLE, in the 77th year of age.

Derbyshire Courier 5 November 1842
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Thursday last, by the Rev Thomas CARSON, vicar Mr William ELSE, miller, to Miss RADFORD, both of Bull Bridge, near Crich.

Derby Mercury 30 November 1842
COMMITTED TO DERBY GAOL
James POYSER, Edward SELLERS, Henry SLACK, and Thomas HITCHCOCK, of Crich, committed to hard labour for three months and to find sureties, for poaching.

1843 newspapers

Derbyshire Courier 1 April 1843
CRICH – at a meeting held at the large room belonging to the Independent Friendly Society, Crich, for the purpose of examining and passing the parish accounts, on Saturday last, the following gentlemen were elected to the respective parish officers for the ensuing year, viz: Messrs Isaac POYSER and John BURTON, overseers; Messrs Isaac SPENDLOVE and John BACON, churchwardens; Messrs. Joseph LEAM and George HILL, surveyors of the highways; Messrs. Thos and George LEE, collectors; Messrs. John REDFERN and Charles SLACK, assessors; and Mr John SMITH, wheelwright, Constable. Messrs. George STOCKS and Gervase SPENDLOVE were elected as guardians.

Derbyshire Courier 4 February 1843
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Wednesday, the 25th ult., at the house of Mr James SMITH, Sun Inn, Crich, on the body of Mr Nathanial CURZON, fruiterer. It appeared in evidence that on Tuesday morning he got up as usual, made his fire and breakfast, went to the back door for some purpose and was there found quite dead by a neighbour. Verdict, “Died by the visitation of God.”

Derbyshire Courier 11 February 1843
FATAL RAILWAY ACCIDENT AT CRICH
Report on death of Job BERRISORD
Report on Job Berrisford's accident

 

Derby Mercury 15 February 1843
AUCTION
Crich auction on 1843

Names mentioned
Mrs POYSER
Sarah BOWMER
William GARRATT
Robert WINTERBOTTOM
David BRADBURY
George VALLANCE
William CURZON,
Joseph LEAM
[Note: The "New Inn" mentioned at Bull Bridge must have been either the Canal Inn or the Lord Nelson]

Derbyshire Courier 18 February 1843
DEATHS
On Saturday last, at Fritchley, Hannah, wife of Joseph TOPHAM, aged 40 years.
At Crich Cliff, on Wednesday, Elizabeth COUPE, aged 25 years.

Derby Mercury 5 April 1843
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on the 30th ult. by the Rev Thomas CARSON, vicar, Mr David WHEATCROFT, miller and baker, of Crich, to Miss Emily MILES, of Belper.

Derbyshire Courier 8 April 1843
DEATHS
At Holloway, near Crich, on Monday last, in the prime of life, Mary, wife of Mr John TAYLOR, of the above place, mason.
At Crich, on Monday last, Joseph, son of Mr Joseph WOOLLEY, framework knitter, in the 17th year of his age.
At Park-lane Head, near Crich, on Tuesday last, Margaret, wife of Mr George WHEATCROFT, farmer.

Derbyshire Courier 6 May 1843
MARRIAGES
On Thursday last at Crich, by the Rev Thomas CARSON, vicar Mr Henry POYSER, grocer, draper, and haberdasher, Crich, to Elizabeth youngest daughter of Mr Joseph ROE, of Ockley, near Crich.
[No Ockley found near Crich. There were ROE family at South Wingfield and Oakerthorpe]
On Sunday last, at West Hallam, Mr Samuel BARNES, of Fritchley, to Sarah, daughter of Mr Peter HENSTOCK, Cliff side, near Crich.

Derbyshire Courier 20 May 1843
MARRIAGES
On the 17th instant, at Crich, by the Rev J.HALTON, vicar of Wingfield, Mr E.W. TURNER, hosier, of Belper, to Miss Caroline WIGHTMAN, youngest daughter of Mr James WIGHTMAN, of Fritchley.

Derbyshire Courier 24 June 1843
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 14th instant, Martha, youngest daughter of Mr G BOWNES, aged 18.
At Crich, on the 19th instant, Sarah, wife of Mr G CURZON, in the prime of life.

Derby Mercury 28 June 1843
Esther COWLISHAW, and Samuel COWLISHAW, both of Crich, committed to hard labour for six months or pay £12.14s, for fraudulently removing their goods to prevent their landlord distraining for rent.

Derbyshire Courier 22 July 1843
DEATHS
At Crich, on Wednesday, the 12 instant, Elizabeth, daughter of Mr Joseph’s SWINDELL, of Crich, aged 12 years.

Derbyshire Courier 2 September 1843
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Monday, by the Rev J.CARSON, vicar, Mr William FLINT, of Lea, to Miss Anne BUXTON, of Holloway, Crich.

Derby Mercury 20 September 1843
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Thursday, by the Rev Thomas CARSON, vicar, Mr Thomas SMITH, of the Acres, near Belper, to Miss Miriam, second daughter of Mr Ralph Wheeldon SMITH, butcher, farmer, and malster, Crich.

Derby Mercury 15 November 1843
Francis BRIDDON and Samuel BRIDDON, of Crich, committed to hard labour for one month each, for stealing turnips of the value of 1s., the property of Thomas LEE
.John VALLANCE, of Crich, committed to hard labour for one month, for stealing potatoes of the value of 1s., the property of Ralph WHEELDON.

Derby Mercury 29 November 1843
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER1843 newspapers
And on Saturday last, at Crich, on the body of William POYSER, who was drowned the night before in consequence of his falling over a small wall adjoining the canal into the canal. The jury after examining witnesses and viewing the wall, which is a very unsafe one, not being above one foot higher than the road, returned a verdict of “Accidentally drowned,” and at the same time recommended that some additional guard should be made against the canal.

Derbyshire Courier 23 December 1843
INCENDIARY FIRE AT FRITCHLEY
On Monday morning last, about seven o’clock, as the servant boy belonging to Mr Joseph FRITCHLEY, near Crich, was leading his master’s horses to water, he perceived a corn stack on fire at the lower part. The alarm was immediately given, and Mr FRITCHLEY, with the neighbours, immediately commenced taking down the stack, but they had no sooner commenced than the flames broke out, and the corn which was not burnt was spoiled with the smoke and water. About three weeks ago Mr FRITCHLEY had a wheat stack burned down, no doubt by the same villain or villains. Mr FRITCHLEY had insured his property since the first fire. No clue has yet been obtained to the perpetrator of these diabolical acts.

Derbyshire Courier 30 December 1843
SUDDEN DEATH AT CRICH
A person named German WRAGG, who resided at Crich Carr, and followed the occupation of making whiskets, died suddenly at his home last Thursday week. An inquisition was taken on the following Saturday at Mr BURLEY’s, the Bulls Head Inn, Whatstandwell Bridge, before Mr WHISTON, coroner, when, from the evidence of Mr MACARSIE, surgeon, who had made a post mortem examination, it appeared that death took place from rupture of the muscular substance of the heart, the organ having been previously injured by ulceration. Verdict, “died by the visitation of God.”
[Note: whiskets were small baskets]

1844 newspapers

Derbyshire Courier 17 February 1844
It may be useful to some timid railway travellers to state, that the furious puffing of the engine shows the safety valve is open, an explosion impossible.

Derbyshire Courier 24 February 1844
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Wednesday, Mr Thomas CHEETHAM, to Martha, daughter of Mr Charles JACKSON, of Crich.

Derby Mercury 27 March 1844
CRICH CROSS
To let, a house, parlour and kitchen, with draper’s shop, brewhouse, and bakehouse attached thereto. Also, a stable, pigsty, and good garden situate at Crich, and late in the occupation of Mr Henry POYSER. For particulars applied to Mrs BEARDSLEY, Edge Farm, near Crich.

Derbyshire Courier 6 April 1844
DEATHS
At Crich, on Wednesday last, Mary WILLGOOSE, widow, aged 82 years.

Derbyshire Courier 20 April 1844
DEATHS
At the Pothouse, Crich, on Wednesday the 10th instant, Mr James MARSHALL, farmer aged 76 years.
On Thursday the 11th inst. at the house of Mr G.STOCKS, Crich common, Hannah KIRKLAND, spinster, aged 66 years.
On Saturday the 13th instant, at Crich, James WOOD, in the 74th year of his age.

Derby Mercury 12 June 1844
Joseph HALL, of Crich, committed to prison for 14 days or pay 16s for an assault upon Samuel MELLOR.

Derbyshire Courier 24 August 1844
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Friday, at Crich, on the body of William GREATOREX, age 14 years, whose death was occasioned the previous day, in consequence of about 20 tons weight of coal and earth falling upon him at the stone quarry, where he was employed with his father and five other persons. It appeared that the father of the deceased was preparing for a blast, and that the deceased had gone for a straw, and whilst in the act of fetching it the earth and stone gave way and fell upon the deceased, causing instant death. After a careful examination into the circumstances of the case jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death,” accompanied with a strong recommendation to the proprietors of the quarries, to give instructions for greater caution for the men employed there.

Derbyshire Courier 7 September 1844
ACCIDENTS AT CRICH
On 13 August, as Latham HAYS, a boy of about 12 years of age was playing upon a wall in the neighbourhood of this place, he accidentally fell by which his elbow was dislocated and his arm broken – On the following evening while the son of Mr BRAILSFORD, keeper for Mr WHEATCROFT, of Buckland Hollow, and residing at Wingfield Park, was playing with a dog on the house floor, he fell and received a fracture of the arm. – On 25 August Ormond HAYS, brother of the first named sufferer was wrestling with some others in a public house at Crich; in doing so he fell and also sustained a dislocation of the elbow.

Derby Mercury 9 October 1844
DEATHS
On the 25th ult. at the house of her father, Mr Thomas BEARDAH Crich, Maria, wife of Mr William ROBINSON, of the Cromford and High Peak Railway, aged 31 years.

Derbyshire Courier 26 October 1844
MARRIAGES
At Ashover church, on Monday last, Mr Benjamin BUNTING, tailor, Ashover to Miss Betsy Wall, of Crich.

Derby Mercury 30 October 1844
DEATHS
At Hotstandwell-bridge, near Crich, suddenly, aged 54, Mr BURLEY, landlord of the Bull’s Head Inn, and some few years since held the situation of farming bailiff to Francis HURT, Esq, of Alderwasley; he was a man deservedly respected by all who knew him.
At Alderwasley, a few days since, Mrs Margaret KEMP, aged 87.

Derbyshire Courier 30 November 1844
DEATHS
At Fritchley, near Crich, on the 21st instant. Mr James FRITCHLEY, blacksmith and farmer, in the 85th year of his age.
At Alderwasley, on the 21st instant, Mark CARLINE, aged 72 years; for many years game-keeper to T. HURST, Esq of that place.

Derbyshire Courier 30 November 1844
MARRIAGES
At Duffield, on the 26th instant, Mr William HENSTOCK, butcher, Bullbridge, Crich, to Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Mr FLINT, the station-house, Ambergate.

1845 newspapers

Derby Mercury 2 April 1845
MARRIAGES
At the Independent Chapel, Belper, on the 20th ult., by the Rev T.R. GAWTHORNE, Mr Abraham WHEATCROFT, of Crich, to Mrs Ann MATHER, of Crich Carr.

Derby Mercury 9 April 1845
At Crich on the 1st instant, by the Rev M CURSOM [sic], vicar, Mr James TAYLOR, general dealer, Crich, to Elizabeth only daughter of Mr Charles BAKER, of the Wheatsheaf Inn, Crich
On the 2nd instant, at the same place, Mr Joseph LEAM, farmer, Fritchley, Crich, to Miss Hannah LEE, of the same place.
[Note: At this time the vicar of Crich was Rev. T. CARSON]

Derbyshire Courier 5 July 1845
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Wednesday, the 25th day of June last, at Crich, on the body of Elizabeth BUNTING, who died very suddenly the day before. The deceased had been out of house for a short time, and on her return home, sat down in a chair and died immediately. Verdict, “died by the visitation of God.”

Derby Mercury 6 August 1845
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 23rd ult., after a protracted illness, in the 66th year of his age, Mr BOWNES, of that place. In his loss his widow laments the most affectionate of husbands, his children the best of fathers, and society a sincere friend.

Derbyshire Courier 15 November 1845
CRICH STAND
The prospect tower, which for nearly a century crowned this summit of Crich Cliff, and from which the view extended into five counties, is now levelled to the ground. It had been for some years in a ruinous state, in consequence of the timber of the interior having been from time to time removed; and last winter a considerable portion of the tower fell; and the part which remained, being highly insecure, was, by order of the proprietor, (T.HURT, Esq, of Alderwasley.) blasted down with gunpowder, a week or two ago. It is, we hear, intended, that the tower shall be rebuilt.

Derby Mercury 3 December 1845
BIRTHS
On Wednesday, the 26 ult., the Lady of Mr MACKARSIE surgeon, of Crich, of a daughter.

1846 newspapers

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 18 February 1846
CRICH
An accident of a serious nature occurred on Wednesday evening last, to a miner of the name of Enos HARRISON. It appears that the man had been drinking at a beerhouse, and returned home in a state of intoxication, and laid himself down on the hearth before the fire, when by some means his clothes caught fire, and being in a hopeless condition, he was burnt in a shocking manner, in various parts of his body, particularly his left arm and shoulder. Under the skilful treatment of Mr HALL, surgeon, it is hoped he will recover, and that this accident will be a warning to him to refrain from habits of intemperance.

Derbyshire Courier 21 February 1846
DEATHS
On Sunday last, the 15th instant, aged 45. Mr Samuel WETTON, stone-mason, Crich.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 18 March 1846
BIRTH
On the 11th instant, the wife of Jacob WALL, Esq Park Head, near Crich, of a son and heir.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 25 March 1846
A serious accident occurred to Mr Joseph COOPER, Clerk to Messrs. MOLDS, Alderwasley Iron Works, on Saturday evening last. It appears that on his return from Belper Market he was stepping out of the carriage which he had been riding in, and by some means slipped down and broke one of his legs in two places. Mr WALKER, surgeon, of Crich, was immediately sent for, and promptly attended and reduce the fractured limb. We are happy to say Mr C. is progressing very favourably.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 11 April 1846
On the 3rd instant, Maria eldest surviving daughter of Mr John HAYNES, Dimple Cottage, Crich, aged 20.
On Sunday, April 5, Mary, relict of the late Mr Joseph BLOUNT, of Crich.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 12 June 1846
DEATHS
On Monday last, after a long and painful illness, aged 53, Sarah, the wife of Mr Samuel KNEEBONE, Crich.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 14 August 1846
ENLARGEMENT OF THE CHURCHYARD, CRICH
This most desirable undertaking has now been satisfactorily arranged, one part of the land required has been given by the RightHonourable Lord Scarsdale; the other part has been purchased from the proprietor by the parishioners. The work was led by ticket, on Thursday week, and is to be forthwith commenced.

Derby Mercury 19 August 1846
BELPER UNION TO MEDICAL GENTLEMEN
On Saturday, the 29th day of August instant, the Guardians will proceed to the appointment of a gentleman duly qualified, according to the Poor Law Commissioners General Order of 12 March 1822, as medical officer for the parish of Crich, in the said Union. Salary of £10 per annum. In addition to which he will be entitled to the remuneration for the operations and services mentioned in such order, for attending which he shall have received a proper authority.
Candidates for the above appointment are requested to send proposals in writing by 12 o’clock on Saturday, 29 August instant, stating they are willing to undertake the duties of the office as prescribed by the Order of the Poor Law Commissioners, addressed to “The Clerk of the Union, Belper.”
By order of the board, Joseph PYM.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 18 September 1846
CRICH
On Tuesday last, as a horse belonging to Mr Benjamin GRETOREX, Crich, was drawing the empty limestone wagons of the small incline on Messrs Stephenson and Co’s limestone railway, a wagon load of stone was by some means liberated from its fastenings in the quarry and descending the incline, rushed upon the horse with the empty wagons and killed it on the spot. As the wagons crossed several footpaths and roads in its descent which are unguarded, we trust that the parochial authorities will see that proper guards put up, before human life is sacrificed.

Derby Mercury 21 October 1846
MARRIAGES
At Ashover Church, on Wednesday last, by the Rev J NODDER, Mr John RADFORD, of Crich, grocer, to Miss Mary Ann LOWE, of Lea, in the parish of Ashover.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 23 October 1846
CRICH
The annual Michaelmas, or what is commonly called “Dog Fair,” was held on Monday the 12th instant. There was a fair show of cattle of all descriptions, and what was sold fetched good prices, except pigs, for which there was a larger seow [sic] than usual, and a great many of them were sold at low rates, being diseased, much to the disappointment and loss of the purchaser, an instance of which happened to Mr BEARDAH, a respected shopkeeper of Crich, who purchased four strong store pigs, two of which died the following day, and the other two are so badly affected with the disease that no hopes are held out of their recovery. The pleasure fair was but thinly attended owing to the rain setting in soon after noon and continuing until past midnight. It being also the feast or wakes week, fiddling and dancing had been the order of the day at the various public-houses. On Thursday a public tea meeting was held at “mine hosts” of the Black Swan Inn, and another on Friday at Mr Thomas WHEATCROFT’s, beer-house keeper; after tea each evening dancing commenced and was kept up with great spirit and hilarity. On Thursday also, the children belonging to the Wesleyan Sunday-school were entertained with tea and “spotted tommy” by their teachers and friends of the chapel belonging to that society.
CRICH PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY
[there followed a lengthly article about a concert held at a room belonging to The Independent Friendly Society]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 23 October 1846
MARRIAGES
On the 8th instant, at Whitkirk, Yorkshire, Mr William SYKES, miller and baker, Crich, to Miss Frances DEANE, of the former place.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 23 October 1846
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On the same day (Monday), at Crich, on the body of Ann TOMLINSON, aged 72 years, whose death took place the day before from the effects of laudanum, administered by mistake for tincture of rhubarb.
From the evidence given before the jury, it appeared, that the deceased had gone for some tincture of rhubarb, and that the person she applied to unfortunately gave her laudanum, but on discovering the error, immediately afterwards applied proper remedies to remove the laudanum, and medical aid was immediately sent for, but without effect, death taking place in about sixteen hours after the laudanum was taken. The evidence also showed that the death of the deceased took place from general decay of nature, accelerated by the laudanum. The jury returned a verdict to that effect, accompanying the same with the remark, that the laudanum was wholly given by mistake, and without any intent to take away life.
[Note: laudanum was the same as tincture of opium].

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 6 November 1846
FATAL ACCIDENT AT CRICH
On Saturday, the 3st ult. as Mr Gervase SPENDLOVE, of Wakebridge, near Crich, in this county, was returning from Belper fair, he fell from his horse and was drowned in the canal about half way betwixt Hotstandwell [sic] and Amber Gate [sic]. The canal hauling-path is the nearest road to his home from Belper, and it is supposed that the horse shyed and the saddle turning he was precipitated into the water. The horse was seen without his rider had his hat was found immediately after the accident. The body had been about an hour underwater when found, and was removed to Mrs BURLEY’s, of Whatstandwell Bridge, where an inquest was held on view of the body on Monday, and a verdict of “accidental death” recorded. Mr SPENDLOVE was 53 years of age, and highly respected by a large circle of friends, who deeply lamented his melancholy fate.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 6 November 1846
FRIGHTFUL ACCIDENT
On Saturday last an accident of a serious nature happened to Sarah HATFIELD, wife of Thomas HATFIELD, labourer, Crich. It appears that she was on her way to Belper fair, and was riding on one of the limestone wagons belonging to Messrs George Stephenson and Co. down the incline plane of the railway which conveys stone from Crich to Ambergate, when on meeting the empty wagons coming up a dizziness seized her in the head, and she fell off and was caught by a hook attached to the wagon, in the lower part of her back and was dragged a considerable distance before the breaksman could put the brake on to stop the wagon. On being taken up it was found that her back was very much lacerated with a hook, and her legs and other parts of the body bruised. She was immediately conveyed home in a cart, and was promptly attended to by Mr MACKARSIE, surgeon, she is now in a fair way of recovery, great praise is due to youth who was riding in one of the empty wagons, for his promptness on observing the accident, in calling the brakesman to stop, otherwise all human probability the poor woman would have been cut in two by the wire rope which lets the wagons down the plane.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 27 November 1846
DARING ROBBERY
On Friday evening last, about 7 o’clock, some daring villain or villains entered the shop of Mr Joseph LEE, shopkeeper, Crich Carr, during the temporary absence of his wife, and stole the till from behind the counter, containing about twenty shillings worth of copper, with which they got clear off. What makes the act more daring is the fact of Mr LEE being a conservator of the public peace, and being at the time the robbery was committed asleep on the sofa in an adjoining room, the communication to which was open.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 27 November 1846
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Monday last, by the Rev Thomas CARSON, vicar, Mr John HOLMES, cordwainer, to Sarah second daughter of Mr John ROE, Park Head, near Crich.
DEATHS
On the 24th instant, aged 74, Mary relict of the late Mr Isaac HARRISON, miller, Fritchley, near Crich.

Derby Mercury 9 December 1846
DEATHS
On Saturday, the 14th ult., at Crich, Thomas TRAVIS, Esq, in the 90th year of his age.

1847 newspapers

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 1 January 1847
DEATHS
On the 17th ult. aged 42, Mr Joseph BOWMER, second son of the late Mr Thomas BOWMER, Barn Close House, Fritchley, near Crich.
On Saturday. the 19th ult., aged 29. Mr Joseph MATHER. late schoolmaster, Crich Carr
On Tuesday, the 22nd ult. in the 41st year of her age, Hannah, wife of Mr Joseph BRETLAND, joiner, Crich. being a member of the female friendly society. meeting at Mr BAKER’s Wheatsheaf Inn, her remains were accompanied to the grave, on Christmas-day, by a number of the members of the said society, arrayed in white scarves.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 1 January 1847
CRICH
On St.Thomas’s day a large quantity of flannel, calico, prints, &c., amounting to upwards of thirty pounds worth, was distributed by the vicar of Crich to the poor of the parish. The principal part of the above sum is derived from the Gisborne and other charities, aided by donations from a few benevolent ladies residing in the neighbourhood, whose hands are always busily engaged in silently administering relief to the poor, the needy, and afflicted.
[Note: £30 in 1847 would be equivalent to a little under £2,000 in 2021]

Derby Mercury 9 January 1847
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on the 28th ult. (by special licence), by the Rev E.HALTON, B.A., Incumbent of Wingfield, Mr Joseph VIVIAN, of Gloucester-Street, Regents Park, to Anne PALMER, only daughter of the late Mr W. BURLEY, Hotstandwell Bridge [sic].

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 22 January 1847
DEATHS
On Monday, the 11th instant, at Plaistow Hall, near Crich, in her 90th year, Mrs Mary REDFERN, of that place, much respected by her relatives and friends, and deeply regretted by the poor, to whom she was a liberal benefactorress.
At Crich, on the 11th instant, Mrs Jane BUXTON, aged 83 years.

Derby Mercury 3 February 1847
CRICH
A few days ago, several boys were diverting themselves on Crich Green, at snowballing, when a youth named William SMITH, son of Mr R.W. SMITH, malster, Crich, was passing at the time with a loaded gun, and one of the snowballs falling near him, he deliberately turned himself round had fired his piece at a young man of the name Richard FOSTER, who was standing talking with some other persons on the green. SMITH considering that FOSTER had thrown the snowball at him. Several shot corns entered FOSTER’s temple and forehead, but he having obtained timely surgical advice, we trust he will soon recover. On the following day, SMITH was taken before the magistrates of Belper, to answer for the offence, and was fined with costs, in the sum of £6.7s.6d.
[Note: this fine equates to about £385 in 2021]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 12 February 1847
CRICH
On Tuesday, the second inst., an inquest was held at Crich, before Mr WHISTON, jun, coroner, on the body of Rebecca, wife of William POYSER, blacksmith, who died very suddenly the previous day. From the evidence which was given, it appeared whilst deceased was sitting by the fireside in her husband’s house, smoking a pipe, she suddenly fell out of the chair and instantly expired, and being no doubt that the death occurred from natural causes, a verdict of “Natural death” was returned.

Derbyshire Courier 13 February 1847
VESTRY MEETING AT CRICH
The annual meeting for passing the accounts of the churchwardens and transacting other business of routine, took place at Crich, on Friday week, the Rev T. CARSON, vicar, in the chair. The accounts were perfectly satisfactory, and the churchwardens were complemented for their economical outlay of the funds under their control. After a new rate of 3d in the pound had been unanimously agreed to, the Rev chairman said he was requested to draw the attention of the meeting to the subject of supplying the poor of the parish with soup thrice a week, during the present time of distress. A handsome subscription was entered into on the spot, and a committee appointed to solicit increased subscriptions, and attend to the distribution of the funds raised for this most necessary and charitable purpose.
[Note: the “present time of distress” referred to was the result of the fact that the winter of 1846–1847 was one of the coldest on record, with snow falling as late as April. It was the time of the tragic Irish famine. It could also account for the widespread vegetable and butchery thefts and poaching happening in the parish.]

Derby Mercury 17 February 1847
On the 12th instant, age 57, Sarah, wife of Mr Joseph ROE, Greyhound Inn, Crich.
At Holloway, near Crich, on Wednesday, February 10, after a lingering and painful illness, aged 32, Lydia, wife of Mr John FROST. Being a member of Lodge No.10 of the “Loyal United Sisters,” held at the Jovial Dutchman, Crich. Her remains were accompanied to the grave on the Sunday following by the sisters of the Lodge, arranged in habiliments suitable to the mournful occasion.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 26 February 1847
DEATHS
At Thurlow Booth, near Crich, on the 17th instant, aged 87, Mr John ALLSOP, late of Belper.

Derbyshire Courier 13 March 1847
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Saturday last, the sixth instant, at Crich, on the body of Edmund JONES, aged 30, who died the evening before, from the injuries received the same day, in consequence of an explosion of gunpowder which took place whilst the deceased was preparing for a blast at the limestone quarry of the Butterly Company, at Crich. The deceased had prepared the hole in the rock for the blast, and had deposited about three pounds of gunpowder there in, but which had not been rammed down and having got to a crack in the rock he was forcing some gunpowder therein with much violence, instead of using caution, and the skewer with which he was working striking a piece of flint in the rock caused the explosion. The deceased was lifted into the air about two yards all in flames, and on his companions getting up to him he was found in a very distressed state, severely wounded on the lower part of his body and the greater part of the left hand taken away. It was very fortunate circumstances for the other men employed at the quarry, that the gunpowder in the blast had not been rammed down, for had this been the case their lives would in all probability have been lost. the deceased had been cautioned by the agent at the works the Saturday before as to the careless manner in which he used the gunpowder. Verdict, “Accidental death.”

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 7 May 1847
DEATHS
On Sunday last, after a lingering and painful illness, aged 21, Sarah, third daughter of Mr Francis BRIDDON, Park Head, near Crich.

Derby Mercury 12 May 1847
DEATHS
On the evening of Saturday last, in the 83rd year of his age, John SAXTON, Esq, Mansion-house, Crich.
At Alderwasley, on the 9th instant, after a short illness, Mr William BULL, late coachman to Francis HURT, Esq, much respected, aged 45.

Derby Mercury 26 May 1847
BEFORE T. MANDER ESQ., CORONER
An accident of a fatal nature occurred on Tuesday morning, the 18th instant, on the Cromford and High Peak Railway, to a respectable young man named Francis Henry BUXTON, aged 23 years, whose death took place in consequence of two wheels of one wagon passing over him. An inquest was held on the body, on Wednesday last, at the house of Mr C. MOORE, the sign of the Miners Standard, at Middleton, near Wirksworth, when it appeared from the evidence adduced that the deceased resided with his parents at Crich Carr…[ the report continued with witness statements]

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 28 May 1847
At Crich, on the 26 instant, aged 35, Mr George WHEATCROFT, jun. Being a member of the United Ancient Order of Druids, his disconsolate widow becomes entitled to the sum of £10 to defray the expenses of his funeral, which sum will, in a small degree, alleviate the sufferings she must otherwise have experienced.

Derby Mercury 16 June 1847
CRICH — CONSECRATION OF ADDITIONAL BURYING GROUND
The inhabitants of Crich having for some time past experienced the inconvenience of interring their dead in an already crowded church yard, resolved, at a vestry meeting, to endeavour to enlarge the same by purchasing some additional land lying contiguous to the one now in use at the east end of the church, when, after various obstacles attending the purchase of the land had been overcome, and a substantial stone wall built enclosing it, the same was consecrated on Wednesday, June the 9th, by the Lord Bishop of Lichfield, in whose diocese Crich is situated.
Divine service was celebrated in the church. The prayers and the beautiful and unequalled litany composing the morning service of the church were very impressively read by the Rev. Thomas CARSON, vicar, at the conclusion of which a procession was formed to the new ground in the following order:—
J. STEVENS, Esq., apparitor, with his wand of office. The Rev. Thomas CARSON, vicar; on either side of him were Mr. John BACON, and Mr. Isaac SPENDLOVE, churchwardens. The Rt. Rev. the Lord Bishop of Lichfield.
Rev. J. Halton, Wingfield Manor – Rev. H. Arkwright, Cromford.
Rev. J. Wood, Swanwick – Rev. J. Harward, Wirksworth.
Rev. J. Lund, Morton – Rev. J. Rushton, Brackenfield.
Rev. J. Nodder, Ashover – Rev. H. Pearson, Carsington.
Rev. J. R. Errington, Alfreton – Rev. W. Barber, Heage.
And several other clergymen whose names did not transpire.
On arriving upon the ground the deed of settlement was read over by J. Mott, Esq., Registrar of the Ecclesiastical Court, Lichfield, and signed by the Bishop. Afterwards, the Bishop offered up the consecration prayer; a few verses of the 39th psalm were sung by the choir, and a blessing pronounced, when the procession returned to the vestry in the same order as it arrived.
The day being fine, the novelty of the occasion attracted a numerous company of spectators, to witness the ceremony, amongst whom were observed: – F. HURT, Esq., and the Misses HURT, Alderwasley; the Misses WOOD, Swanwick; E. RADFOED, Esq., Tansley; Mrs. NODDER, Ashover; Mrs. CARSON, Crich; Thomas LEE, Esq., and Mrs. LEE, Crich; Mrs. FLETCHER, Crich; W. SAXTON, Esq., and L. R. SAXTON, Esq., Crich; Mr. HILL; Mr. WHEATCRIFT; Mr. WOOLAT, Wessington Hay; Mr. Thomas BOWMER and Mrs BOWMER, Barn Close House, Crich.
The children belonging to the Sunday School were in attendance, and sung with much sweetness the various hymns selected for the occasion.
After the ceremony his Lordship, together with the clergymen and other visitors, retired to the vicarage, where they were hospitably entertained to a cold collation by the respected vicar and his lady.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 2 July 1847
At Crich, on Wednesday, the 30th ult., by the Rev I. HALTON, vicar of South Wingfield, after a protracted courtship of upwards of twenty years, Mr George LEE, seedsman, to Miss Martha NIGHTINGALE, both of Wheatcroft in this county.
[Note: from the marriage record – By Licence, George LEE, of full age, Bachelor, Seedsman, living at Wheatcroft, son of Thomas LEE, mineral agent to Martha NIGHTINGALE of full age, Spinster,---living at Wheatcroft, dau. of Joseph NIGHTINGALE, farmer. Both signed with confident signatures, and the witnesses were John HOPKINSON and Elizabeth LEE].

Derby Mercury 4 August 1847
DEATHS
At Crich, on Sunday, August 1st, in the 42nd year of his age, Robert SAXTON, Esq, late of Nottingham and second son of the late John SAXTON, Esq, Mansion House, Crich.

Derby Mercury 11 August 1847
Eliza DAWES, of Crich, committed to hard labour for one month, for neglect of family.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 13 August 1847
CRICH CARR
On Monday last, the children belonging to the Primitive Methodist Sunday School were regaled by their teachers and friends with tea and plumcake, in the newly erected chapel belonging to that society of Christians.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 20 August 1847
DEATHS
On the 12th inst, Ann wife of Mr Isaiah WALTERS, of the Dimple, Crich, deeply regretted by her surviving partner family and friends.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 17 September 1847
William MARSON, of Crich, committed to hard labour for three months, for being found in the dwelling-house of George Clark HYDES for an unlawful purpose.

Derby Mercury 1 December 1847
COMMITTED TO DERBY GAOL
Andrew BASFORD, alias HALL, of Crich, committed to hard labour for one month, for stealing a quantity of potatoes the property of Isaac SPENDLOVE.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 17 December 1847
DEATHS
At Amber Row, parish of Crich, on Friday last, Elizabeth, wife of Alexander SIMPSON, aged 55.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 31 December 1847
Samuel SIMS, Esq, of the “Duke’s quarries,” Crich, according to his annual custom, distributed last week large quantities of beef, &c. to his numerous workmen and tenants in Crich and Holloway. This annual gift gladdens the heart of many a labourer’s wife and children.

1848 newspapers

Derby Mercury 12 January 1848
CRICH
On Monday night, the 3rd instant, some midnight marauders, broke into the flour-mill, in the occupation of messrs, W.and I. SYKES, of Crich, and stole about 20 stone of undressed flour with which they got safe off undiscovered.

Derby Mercury 2 February 1848
DEATHS
On Sunday, the 23rd ult., William, son of Mr Jacob WALL, Park Head, Crich, aged one year and ten months.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 17 March 1848
CRICH
On Thursday, the 9th instant, an inquest was held before Mr WHISTON, coroner, on the body of Mary HALL, who died the Tuesday night previous under circumstances which caused a suspicion that the death had taken place from negligence, she being very near her confinement, and in a feeble weak state. From the evidence given before the jury it appeared that death was occasioned by exhaustion, and the jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Derby Mercury 12 April 1848
DEATHS
At Holloway, on Saturday, the eighth instant, in the 33rd year of his age, Mr John FROST, the youngest surviving son of Mr John FROST, Crich.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 26 May 1848
CRICH
On Saturday last, an inquest was held before Mr WHISTON, at Crich, on the body of Lucy DAWES, the wife of Israel DAWES, aged 71, who died the morning previous from falling downstairs. It appeared that the deceased had gone to bed about half-past ten on Thursday night, and got up soon after one the next morning for the purpose of going upstairs to some part of the family, and that whilst in the act of ascending the stairs, she fell to the bottom. Her husband, hearing the fall, immediately got up and rendered every help, and before the arrival of medical aid life was extinct. Verdict, “Accidental death.” – On the same day, at the same time and place, on the body of George BOLLINGTON, a labourer, aged 35, who died the day before from the effects of injuries received on the Ambergate and Buxton line of Railway on the 8th instant. It appears from the evidence that the deceased was employed as a driver on one of the horses drawing the carriages conveying materials out of the Lea Wood Tunnel, and whilst running two empty wagons into the tunnel he caught one of his feet upon a stone which caused him to fall down upon the line of the railway. The wagons coming quickly upon him, he was unable to extricate himself, and the wheels of the wagon passed over his left leg causing a compound fracture. Lock jaw followed after a few days, and the man died. The jury returned a verdict of “Accidental death.”

Derbyshire Courier17 June 1848
CRICH
The Mountain Glory Lodge of the Loyal United Sisters held its anniversary on Whit-Monday, at the house of Mr Ralph SMITH, Dutchman Inn. In the morning they went in procession to the parish church, where a suitable sermon was delivered to them by the vicar.On returning from church they partook of the most excellent dinner provided by the host and hostess.
On the same day the Loyal Strangers Refuge Lodge of Odd Fellows assembled at the Bull’s Head Inn, Crich held their annual festival. In the morning they attended divine service in the church, on returning from which they partook of a sumptuous dinner, provided by Mr HATFIELD, the worthy host. In the evening accompanied by the females belonging to the Mountain Lodge of Loyal United Sisters and preceded by an excellent band of music and a splendid banner, Perambulating the village, the band playing several patriotic and martial airs, after which they returned to their separate lodge rooms, and spent the evening in hilarity and glee. Several of the opulent and respectable inhabitants of the village dined with the above lodges.
On Whit-Wednesday the brothers and friends of the “Cleft in the Rock LODGE” of the United Ancient Order of Druids, dined together at Host SMITH’s of the Dutchman Inn, Crich. After the cloth was drawn Thomas LEE Esq, was called to the chair, and P.A.John FROST, the “Man of Crich” not of “Ross” with his accustomed hilarity and good humour filled the vice chair. The chairman gave the “Queen” followed by several appropriate loyal toasts and songs. The proceedings of the day were marked with that spirit of unanimity which should be at all times characterise meetings devoted to “the feast of reason and the flow of soul.”

Derbyshire Courier 29 July 1848
DEATHS
At Crich, on Monday last, Elizabeth STOPPARD, known by the cognomen of “Old Betty, at Travis’s,” aged 76. She had been in the employ of the late Thomas TRAVIS, Esq 50 years.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 1 September 1848
CRICH
On Friday last, an inquest was held at Crich, before Mr WHISTON, Jun coroner, on the body of George DAWES, aged 15 years, whose death took place the previous day from injuries received, in consequence of seven wagons laden with limestone passing over his legs, he having fallen from one of the wagons upon the rails of the inclined plane at that place. It appears from the evidence that the deceased had, a few minutes previously to the accident, been cautioned not to go near the wagons, but had not taken any notice of such warning, and, unperceived by the brakesman, had jumped up on the break of the first wagon to ride down the inclined plane, and in so doing fell upon the rails, when the wheels of the seven wagons passed over his legs. He was immediately taken home, where he lingered for about eight hours, frequently requesting that his legs might be cut off as they were so painful. The deceased had no business whatsoever on the line, and had been repeatedly cautioned not to go there. The jury recorded a verdict of “Accidental death,” and expressed a desire that boards should be put up cautioning persons against trespassing on the line, which is hoped will be attended to.

Derbyshire Courier 12 August 1848
INQUEST BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
On Saturday last, at Crich, on the body of Thomas HAYES, aged 30 years, who died very suddenly the day before. It appeared from the evidence that the deceased lived with his parents, after eating his breakfast had gone into the garden to get some beans for dinner, and after having done so, he retired to the privy, where he was found in a dying state, and on being discovered he was removed into the house, and died shortly afterwards. The deceased had been subject to fits for some time past, and the jury being satisfied that DEATH was occasioned from natural causes, returned a verdict to that effect.

Derby Mercury 8 November 1848
ROBBERY
On the evening of Sunday, the 26 ult., four ducks were stolen from the farmyard in the occupation of Mr David TOWNDROW, Coddington Farm, near Crich. A handsome reward is offered for the apprehension of the offenders. This species of robbery has lately become very prevalent in Crich, and the neighbourhood.
[Note: there are a great many reports of farm animal thefts, shoplifting and garden thefts in the Crich parish during this period – rather too many to record them all]

Derby Mercury 8 November 1848
PREFERMENT
The Rev Thomas CARSON, vicar of Crich, in this county, has been presented to the valuable living of Seaming in the county of Norfolk. Patron, Edward LOMBE, Esq.

Derbyshire Courier 25 November 1848
MARRIAGES
At Crich, on Monday last, Mr John HOLLINGWORTH, labourer, to Miss Elizabeth ALLEN, daughter of Mr J ALLEN, of Crich.

Derby Mercury 13 December 1848
DEATHS
Lately, at Cheltenham, aged 77, Mrs MARSHALL, relict of the late Mr James MARSHALL, Pot House Farm, Crich.
At his residence, Chelsea, on Thursday, the 30th, ult. aged 77, Mr George BACON, formerly of Wheatcroft Carr, near Crich; many years a teacher at Hanwell Academy, near London.

Derbyshire Courier 16 December 1848
CRICH PAROCHIAL SCHOOL
The trustees of this newly-erected and commodious school have appointed Mr Joseph WITHAM, post office, Crich, to be the master, and Miss BURTON, of Manchester, to be the mistress. It is calculated to hold 300 children.

Derbyshire Courier 30 December 1848
DEATHS
On Sunday last, aged 45, Phyllis, wife of Mr Isaac SPENDLOVE, of the Hollins Farm, Crich. SUDDEN DEATHS
Mrs SPENDLOVE, wife of Isaac SPENDLOVE, of the Hollins Farm, near Crich, was taken suddenly ill at church on Sunday last, and expired shortly after her arrival home.

1849 newspapers

Derby Mercury 9 February 1849
Lost, on Wednesday last, the 2nd instant, a liver and white pointer bitch in puppy, and a liver and white tick’d pointer dog. The bitch answers to the name of “Nell” and the dog to “Rap.” Whoever will bring them to Mr William SAXTON, Mansion House, Crich, will receive two pounds reward, and whoever detains them after this advertisement, will be prosecuted.

Derbyshire Courier 17 February 1849
COMMITTED To DERBY COUNTY GAOL
John STEVENSON and Samuel THOMPSON, of Crich, to hard labour for two months, or pay £3.2s.each, for poaching.

Derby Mercury 7 March 1849
DEATHS
At Crich, on the 28th ult., aged 72, Mr Thomas BEARDAH, shopkeeper.
At Fritchley, on the 1st instance, Mr William SIMS, publican, aged 58.

Derby Mercury 4 April 1849
COMMITTED TO DERBY GAOL
John WOOLLEY, of Crich, to hard labour for 14 days, for leaving work without notice when under contract to James JEFFRIES.

Derby Mercury 18 April 1849
DEATHS
On Friday, the 13th instant, aged 13, Anna, second daughter of Mr Thomas SUMMERSIDE, agent two Messrs. Geo Stephenson and Co., Ambergrove, near Crich.

Derbyshire Courier 21 April 1849
DEATHS
At Alderwasley, on Sunday, the 8th instant, at the patriarchal age of 100 years, Mr George WALKER, late of Crich, in this He has left behind him a numerous progeny of descendants consisting of, ten children, seventy grandchildren, and sixty great-grandchildren; total one hundred and forty-nine.

Derbyshire Courier 12 May 1849
ROBBERY OF A BUTCHERS SHOP
On Friday week, the shop belonging to Mr John TAYLOR, butcher, Crich, was broken into and a large quantity of meat, consisting of beef, mutton, veal, &c., together with a bundle of clean wearing apparel, which had been left in the shop, was stolen therefrom. The robbers effected their entrance by picklocks. An attempt was also made the same night to force an entrance into Mr HIGTON’s butchers shop, but the designs of the villains were frustrated by strong bolts.

Derbyshire Courier 12 May 1849
PREFERMENT
The Rev George William LEWIS, of London, has been presented by the Rev Richard LEE, of Stepney, Patron, to the vicarage of Crich, vacant by the resignation of the Rev Thomas CARSON, the reverend gentleman was inducted seriatim into the living on Sunday last.

Derbyshire Courier 2 June 1849
COMMITTED TO DERBY GAOL
Samuel BESTWICK, of Crich, to hard labour for two months, or pay £2.9s.10d. for wilfully and maliciously breaking windows belonging to John COLLEDGE.

Derbyshire Advertiser and Journal 15 June 1849
At Crich, on Saturday last, aged 61, Ann, wife of Mr John SMITH, wheelwright.
At Crich June 12, aged 73, Jane, relict of the late Mr Robert COOPER.
At Crich, on Saturday morning last, after a painful illness borne with resignation, Ann, the wife of Mr John SMITH, farmer, in the 62nd year of her age, leaving a family to deplore the loss of an affectionate mother.

Buxton Herald 30 June 1849
At his house, Crich, on Sunday morning last, in his 49th year, Mr Thomas LEE, grocer and draper, of that place, after a lingering illness of 18 weeks.

Derby Mercury 12 September 1849
NOTICE
All persons having any claim or demand upon the estate of the late Thomas LEE, Crich, are requested to send the particulars thereof to James LEE, one of the executors, in order that they may be examined and immediately paid. And all persons indebted to the said Thomas LEE, are requested to pay the amount of their debts on or before 11 October next.

Derby Mercury 12 September 1849
BEFORE MR WHISTON, JUN, CORONER
And on the same day at Crich, on the body of William CURZON, who died very suddenly that morning. It appeared that the deceased left home for the purpose of going to his daughters, and shortly after arriving there he fell down and died in a few minutes. Mr HALL, surgeon, was immediately sent for, life was extinct before his arrival, and his opinion being that death was occasioned from disease of the heart, the jury returned a verdict accordingly.

Derby Mercury 26 September 1849
DEATHS
At Bull Bridge, near Crich, in this county, on the 14th instant, Mr William FROST, mining agent, aged 64 years. His loss is deeply deplored amongst a large circle of relatives and friends.