CLAIMS
TO FAME
Every tree can find some sort of claim to be connected 
to someone famous, whether it's being a decendent of the Prime Minister of New Zealand, or being distantly related to Diana.
Detective Superintendent of Police
Charles Battersby
(1835 - 1899)
Charles Battersby was born in 1835 in Barnburgh near Doncaster in Yorkshire. He was baptised on 11th January 1835, son of William Battersby and Ann Morehouse. Charles was their first child and was to be the eldest of 12 siblings.
In 1841, Charles was living with his parents in Barnbro’ where his father was employed as a tailor, and by 1851, Charles had followed his father’s trade and was employed as a tailor’s apprentice.
Charles joined the Sheffield police force in 1856. At this time, the Chief Constable was Mr. Raynor. Two years later, in 1858, on Mr. Jackson becoming Chief Constable, Charles was transferred to Sheffield Manor.
On 28th October 1858, Charles married Marianne Free, daughter of John Free and Sarah Mynott from Horseheath, Cambridge. At the time of the marriage, Charles was a resident in Sheffield where his occupation was recorded as being that of a policeman but Marianne was living in Barnborough, Charles’ hometown. The marriage took place at Barnborough Parish Church and Marianne’s brother; Alfred Free was a witness at the wedding.
John Edward Battersby, the first child of Charles and Marianne was born early in 1860 in Brightside, Sheffield. He would have been aged 1 year in 1861 when Charles and his new family were living in Manor, his occupation being noted on the census for that year as a police constable.
Later in the year of 1861 Charles and Marianne had a daughter, Eliza Alice Battersby, she died on May 2nd 1863 at the age of 1 year and 7 months and was buried at the General Cemetery.
Charles was stationed at Sheffield Manor for three years.
“a district noted in those days for deeds of daring committed by the criminal classes. Pigeon-stealing formed one of the most common offences, and an incident which happened while Mr. Battersby was endeavouring to bring some of the offenders to justice is one which does not often occur in a policeman’s life. He tackled four of the thieves, and was getting the worst of it until several young ladies who were near at hand seeing the officer’s dangerous position, boldly went to his rescue. Mr. Battersby was considerably encouraged by such plucky conduct, and he eventually succeeded in carrying one of his assailants to the lock up. Two of the remainder were afterwards caught, while the fourth finished by going to America.”
“His able performance of his duties during that period was recognised by a public testimonial.”
Early in 1864 another daughter, Kate Beatrice Celia Battersby was born and in the spring of 1866, Alice Adelaide Battersby was born.
The Great Sheffield Flood 1864 …
The Great Sheffield Flood devastated parts of Sheffield, on March 11, 1864, when the Dale Dyke Dam broke.
The newly-built dam, at Low Bradfield on the River Loxley, broke while it was being filled for the first time. Water swept down the Loxley valley, through Loxley village and on to Malin Bridge and Hillsborough, where the Loxley joins the Don. The flood continued south down the Don into Sheffield centre, around the eastward bend of the Don at Lady’s Bridge, then to Attercliffe, and on to Rotherham.
The subsequent enquiry found that the flood had wrecked nearly every bridge as far as Lady’s Bridge, destroyed 800 houses, and killed 270 people - bodies were later found as far down the Don as Mexborough. The conclusion was that construction was defective, and that a small leak in the wall grew rapidly until the dam failed completely.
“At the time of the great Sheffield flood, he was stationed on Penistone Road, and it was part of his melancholy duty to assist in removing the bodies of those who had been drowned to the temporary mortuary at Owlerton.”
In 1866 Charles was promoted to the rank of sergeant,
“and took charge of the Heeley and Eccclesall division, which was in those days policed by twelve men.”
Broadhead Outrages 1866/67 ...
William Broadhead was elected General Secretary of the Saw Grinders Union in 1848. Under his leadership, the union grew in power, raising large sums of money for their members, and disrupting the work of non-union members. This disruption took several forms, including damaging equipment, sending threatening letters, and even bombings and shootings. Broadhead never became personally involved in this intimidation, and was able to occupy a prominent position in trade union politics. In November 1866, most union members, including Broadhead, were given certificates of immunity, so although Broadhead ultimately confessed to ordering a murder and various other crimes to be committed, he was not convicted of any. The chief perpetrator of these things was a man named Crookes. Charles quickly rose through the ranks again when in 1868 he was promoted to detective sergeant.
Early in 1869, Marianne gave birth to twins, Albert Charles Battersby and Alfred Maurice Battersby. Albert survived, but Alfred died at the age of 5 months on 28th August 1869 and was buried in Burngreave Cemetery in Sheffield. The 1871 Census was taken on Sunday 2nd April and shows Charles and Marianne living at no. 59 Haughton Road in Sheffield with four children: John, Kate, Alice and Albert. Charles’ occupation is noted as Inspector of Detectives. Another daughter for Charles and Marianne was born early in 1872, Florence Mary Battersby and another, in the spring of 1874, Emily Judith Battersby. Emily had reached the age of 1 year and 5 months when she died on 6th September in 1875. In the summer of 1876, their last son was born; they named him Frank Maurice Battersby. In 1876 Charles was promoted again, he was appointed Superintendent of the detective department. In 1881, Charles and most of his family had moved to no 10 Alderson road in the Ecclesall Beirlow district of Sheffield. John was employed as a silversmith and Alice as a draper’s assistant. Albert and Florence were at school and Frank was aged just 4. Kate was living away from home, she was working as a domestic servant at Whitely Wood Hall in the employment of Thomas Gainford, a local Coal Master and Councillor of Sheffield at the time. Charles’ retirement from the police force was in January 1885 due to ill health. He received a police pension, after serving in the force 28 ½ years. “It was followed by a presentation, to which the magistrates and others subscribed, in recognition of his long and active service. The testimonial took the form of a purse of gold, containing £50, and it was handed to him at the George Hotel by Mr. C. C. Robinson, assistant magistrates’ clerk. In responding on he occasion Mr. Battersby said it was pleasant to know that his efforts to discharge his duties had not been unrecognised by the public, and it would be pleasant for his children to reflect that their father’s services had been so handsomely appreciated.” “For a short time after Mr. Battersby’s retirement, the responsibilities which had been vested in him were divided amongst several officers, but not very much later, Mr. Moody became chief inspector in the detective department,” “Mr Battersby was one of the officers who welcomed the late Mr. Jackson to Sheffield, when he was appointed Chief Constable” Charles saw the first of his children marry when his daughter, Alice married Ebenezer Holland on 27th October 1887. Ebenezer was an accountant, originally from Chester but was living in Newark, Nottingham at the time of the wedding, coincidentally, in the same street as Marianne’s sister and brother-in-law, Judith and Edward Liddell. Alice and Ebenezer were married at St Andrew’s Church in the parish of Sharrow in Sheffield, but moved to Newark to live. Charles’ eldest son, John was married to Frances Simmons on 4th Nov 1889. Frances was the daughter of the Schoolmaster of Christchurch Boy’s School in Newark and she and John were married at Christchurch in the Parish of Newark. They set up home in Sheffield. Charles and Marianne became grandparents in 1888 with the birth of Alice’s first child, Ebenezer Charles Holland. Alice’s father-in-law was also named Ebenezer so the first grandson was named after both proud grandfathers. 1891 shows Charles and Marianne living at 22 Mount Pleasant Road with Albert, Florence and Frank. Florence was employed as a draper’s assistant and Albert and Frank were working at the Post Office as Post Office Officials. Alice and Ebenezer Holland were living in Wellington Road in Newark with their two children, Ebenezer Charles, now known as just Charles, and Alice. John and Frances’ first child, Ethel Marjorie Battersby was born late in 1890 and died on 20th March 1901, aged 4 months. Six days later when the 1891 census was taken, John and Frances were living a few streets away from Charles and Marianne at 77 Franklin Street. Kate Battersby was living with her brother and sister-in-law as well, although she was now known as Catherine. 1895 brought another marriage in the family; Albert married Ada Woods on 12th November. Ada was from Haughley in Suffolk. In 1891 she was boarding at a house in St Clements, Ipswich but in 1895 she was again living in Haughley and she and Albert were married in the Parish Church there. They settled in Ecclesall Beirlow close to Charles and Marianne. In his position as Ex-Superintendent Battersby, Charles was present at the Police Station a few weeks before Christmas in 1898, when the new Chief Constable, commander Scott, was officially introduced to the force, this being his last appearance there. Charles died of pneumonia. He had taken to his bed on Wednesday and, despite the efforts of his medical attendant, Dr Laver, finally died at 4 o’clock, Saturday afternoon on the 21st January 1899 at his home at 38 Abeydale Road, Ecclesall Beirlow, Sheffield. The funeral took place the following Wednesday at three o’clock, he was buried in the same grave as his three young children in Burngreave Cemetery, high on the hill, overlooking the city he had lived in for over 40 years. The Sheffield Telegraph gave a short account of his funeral. “The funeral of Mr. Charles Battersby, formerly Detective Superintendent in the Sheffield Police Force, took place yesterday, at Burngreave Cemetery. Mr Battersby joined the force in 1856, and after nearly 29 years’ service, retired on a pension in 1885. He died on Saturday, at his residence, 38, Abeydale Road, at the age of 64. Among those who attended the funeral were Deputy Chief Constable Mackley, Superintendent Gilley, Chief Detective inspector Moody, Inspectors Smith (Brightside), Jackson (Highfield), and Walton (Central), Detective Inspector Brown, ex-Inspector Nicholls, Sergeants Baldwin, Scrayfield and Melton, ex-Sergeants Joseph Higgings, H. Pollitt, and Dickinson, Detective White (Brightside), Detective Malkin (West Riding), and ex-Police constable Towers. There was also a large attendance of relatives and personal friends, and the number of wreaths testified to the respect in which Mr. Battersby was held. The service was conducted by the Rev. L. E. Day, of St. Michael and All Angels." On 3rd July 1899, Charles’ youngest remaining daughter, Florence Battersby married Arthur Knight. In 1891 Florence’s occupation had been noted as a draper’s assistant. Arthur was a draper’s assistant, living at 1-13 Angel Street in Sheffield town centre. This was located on the corner of Angel Street and Castle Street, the address given for G. H. Hovey Drapers from 1882. Florence was married at St Andrew’s church, from 208 Sharrow Street, not far from 38 Abeydale Road where Charles and Marianne were living. Just over two years after Charles had died, the 1901 Census was taken, Marianne was still living at 38 Abeydale Road. The actual address was 38 and 36 Abeydale Road, located on the corner with Pawson Place and Marianne was noted in the census as being a Grocer and Shopkeeper, an employer. Kate was living at home, unmarried at the age of 36, employed as a draper’s assistant, as was Frank, still employed at the Post Office. John and Frances were still living at 77 Franklin Street. They had two children, Ethel and Frank. John was employed as a Silversmith, but Frances also had an employment note; she was a Grocer, possibly at the Abeydale Road shop with Marianne. Alice and George Holland were still living in Wellington Road in Newark. George was a Brewer’s Clerk. Their first son Ebenezer Charles Holland had died in 1897 at the age of 8 but they had two daughters on the census, Maria and Gladys. Albert continued to be employed by the Post Office as a sorting clerk and he and his wife, Ada, were living at 170 Vincent Street with their two sons, Frank and Charles. Florence and Arthur, Arthur still employed as a draper’s assistant, had set up home 5 doors away from Albert and Ada at 158 Vincent Street. The last of Charles’ sons, Frank Battersby was to be married on 10th September 1903. He married Maude Davies at St Barnabas Church in Sheffield. They set up home at 110 Burcot Road, Sheffield. Marianne died on 19th February 1907, aged 72. She died of a cerebral haemorrhage and was buried in the same grave as her husband, Charles, in Burngreave Cemetery. If you visit the grave for Charles and Marianne, you can also lay flowers for Kate who was buried with them. She died 17th December 1919, possibly still unmarried. Also John and Frances Battersby, buried within stepping distance. Frances died on the 18th December 1926, aged 63, and was buried with their daughter Ethel Marjorie. John died on the 8th January 1949, aged 88, and was buried with his wife and daughter. Also Frank and Annie Battersby, buried a short distance away with their grandmother, Marianne’s mother, Sarah Free who died 24th April 1900. Frank died on the 22nd September 1924, aged 48 and Annie died on the 6th August 1953, aged 75.
Thanks to Linda Kirby, Sheffield Library, Friends of Burngreave Cemetery, The Sheffield and Rotherham Independent, The Sheffield Daily Telegraph, Wikipedia
Charles Battersby played “no small part“ in the Broadhead Outrages. On one occasion he visited the man Crookes on the pretence of looking for pigeons which had been stolen.
Instead, however, of looking for the missing birds, he devoted himself to taking samples of wheel bands, and when his object was discovered he met with a reception of which to say the least was not cordial.”
Newark Chief of Police
EDWARD LIDDELL
(1826 - 1899)
Edward Liddell was born in May 1826 in Coniscliffe, Durham, England; he was the son of Edward Liddell (Snr) and Ann Wilson by her second marriage.
Edward's eldest brother, Thomas was born in 1818 in Danby Wiske, Yorkshire. Two more older brothers, Mark and William and a sister, Mary were born in 1820, 22 and 24 in Kirby Ravensworth, Yorkshire before the family moved to Consicliffe and Edward was born. There were another five siblings born in Consicliffe after Edward; John and Ann in 1828 and 29, Margaret and Richard in 1832, and Elizabeth in 1835.
Unlike some sons who follow into their Father's profession, after working as an agricultural labourer in 1841 Edward followed his eldest brother Thomas into The Police Force in 1846. In 1851, Edward was living with Thomas and his wife at the Police Station in Bishopwearmouth, Durham, England. They were both Police Officers as was Edward's other older brother, William.
On 22nd March 1854, Edward married Judith Free. Judith was the daughter of John Free and Sarah Mynott of Horseheath, Cambridge, she had been living in Barnburgh in York and she and Edward were married in the Parish Church there. George Thackery and Eliza Free signed the register; Eliza was probably Judith's sister. Edward himself was married from Newark in Nottinghamshire where he had secured the position of Inspector of Police.
An extract from the book “Nottingham Constabulary” 150 years in Photographs, written by Bill Withers and published in 1989 by Quoin Publishing Limited, states that the first organised Police Force in Newark was set up in 1835, Chief Constable Richard Bell was at the head of two day constables and two night watchmen. The number of night watchmen was later increase to six.
Alfred Free, Judith’s brother joined the Newark Police Force in 1856.
In 1857, a reform of the Newark Borough force combined the day and night Forces into one Police Force and it was placed under the charge of Edward, now Superintendent Liddell, at the age of just 27 years. He was paid the sum of £2 a week.
Two sergeants got 23s each, eight constables got 19s-20s and a Superannuation Fund was set up for the borough with deductions of 7d from sergeants and 6d from constables each week.
Edward was presented with a Commemorative mug in 1860. It was inscribed
Edward Liddell
Superintendent of Police
. . . . 1860 . . . .
On Sunday, 7th April when the 1861 Census was taken, Edward and Judith were living in Barnby Road, Newark, in Nottinghamshire. Judith was 28 and Edward was 34. They had no children. Edward was still employed as the Superintendent of Police.
Edward's brother William had left the Police Force but Thomas was still a Police Constable in Bishopwearmouth, Durham and by then, his younger brother, Richard was a Police Constable in Gainford Village, also in Durham.
An account written by Tim Warner in the Newark Advertiser on 5th July 1996 tells of how “Cutlasses caused outrage” in Newark in the late 1860’s.
He wrote …
“The beat officers’ original means of enforcing the law in Newark was a simple long stick and as the 19th Century wore on it became apparent to the chief constable, Edward Liddell, that if the problem was to be tackled effectively more drastic measures would be required.
It was for this reason, early in 1868 that he decided to arm the Newark force with military-style cutlasses. The move unleashed a storm of protest within the town with citizens wholeheartedly resenting (as the Advertiser put it) the implication that “they were living among a disorderly and dangerous set of people instead of what they had always believed – amongst a very peaceable and honest class.”
At a public meeting it was considered by those present that cutlasses were “not only unnecessary but exceedingly dangerous weapons to be placed in the hands of police officers.”
A petition signed by 800 residents was presented to the Mayor who responded by saying that, in spite of such interest in the move, his mind, and that of the Watch committee, was “fully made up.”
Cutlasses were accordingly introduced onto the streets of Newark in February 1868 although, no doubt to the satisfaction of petitioners, their presence in the town was remarkably short-lived. Less than a year after their introduction the cutlasses were withdrawn, the town council stating that contrary to their original belief there was little necessity for their use in Newark.”
Another newspaper account, again from the Newark Advertiser, on 9th November 1870 – page 2, column 2, describes another event in Edwards career in the Newark Police force.
The report says:
"On the evening of the 1st November the usual practice of kicking lighted tar barrels through the streets was commenced in various parts of the town in celebration of the municipal elections. Mr. Supt. Liddell and his men had an unpleasant time of it but they kept their temper admirably considering the great provocation they received in different parts of the town.
They seized six tar barrels and in several instances the mob resorted to the cowardly and dangerous practice of throwing stones at the officers. One policeman took a barrel from a lot of valiant fellows near the gaol and was afterwards pelted with mud".
By the time the 1871 Census was taken on Sunday, 2nd April, Edward's eldest brother had retired from the Police Force, he had taken early retirement after the death of his wife to raise his 13 year old son. Richard was living in Witton Gilbert in Durham, and had been promoted to Sergeant.
Edward and Judith were still living in Barnby Road, No 69a, and Judith’s youngest sister, Celia, had joined them. Celia was married from their house just over a month later.
She was married in the Parish Church in Newark on Saturday, 20th May 1871. Edward Liddell signed his name on the register as one of their witnesses. The other witness was Mary Jackson. Judith’s brother, Alfred, married Mary Jackson the following year.
Mary Jackson had another link to Edward, she was the granddaughter of Edward's mother, Ann Wilson by her first marriage, making her Edward's step Neice.
In 1881 Alfred and his wife, Mary were living in the Town Hall (Police Station) in Newark, Nottingham. He was employed as a Police Sergeant. Although Edward and Judith had no children of their own, at this time they had three nieces, Sarah, Florence and Eliza, and a nephew, John living near by. This was to increase to five nieces and two nephews when Henry and Margaret were born over the next few years.
Edward's brother Richard had made it to Superintendent of Police in Durham and was living at the Police Station in Stanhope.
Ten years later at the time of the next census on Sunday 5th April 1891, Judith’s mother, Sarah Free was living at Barnby Road with Edward and Judith. Edward’s occupation was noted on the census report as Chief Constable of Newark. Alfred Free was still living at the Police Station, located at the Town Hall in Newark and was still a Sergent.
On Sunday, 5th January 1892, Edward retired from the position of Chief Constable of Newark, a position he had made his own for 38 years. His townsmen subscribed to a testimonial fund and the Mayor presented him an illuminated address and a purse of £138 8s.6d at a presentation evening. The Mayor’s speech, and Edwards’s reply were reported in the Newark Advertiser on Wednesday, 10th February 1892.
PRESENTATION TO MR. E. LIDDELL.
Yesterday afternoon, a meeting of subscribers to the Liddell testimonial Fund was held at the Town Hall, where a purse and illuminated address were presented to Mr. Liddell, ex-Chief Constable of Newark, as a mark of high appreciation felt in the town of his long and valuable services as Chief Constable, and as an evidence also of personal esteem and good-will. Mr. Liddell, who was born in May, 1826, joined the police force in 1846, and has been Chief Constable of Newark for no less a period than 38 years. In the responsible position which he has occupied, he has shown himself a most upright, painstaking, and conscientious official, and has won the good opinion, not only of those concerned in the administration of justice, but of the public generally. On his retirement through failing health, it was felt that he ought not to be allowed to leave the Force without some substantial recognition of his service, and a public meeting was held at the Town Hall at which a committee was formed, and a subscription list opened, Alderman Pratt consenting to act as secretary, and the ex-Mayor as Treasurer. The lists were closed last week, and it was found that a very handsome sum had been subscribed; sufficient to provide a framed illuminated address, and to leave a sum of £138 8s, 6d. to be given to Mr Liddell in cash. The Mayor consented to make the presentation yesterday in the name of the subscribers, amongst those present, in addition to his Worship, were Alderman Pratt, J.P., col. Newton, Mr Crossley, J.P., councillors Chatterton, Goodwin, and Walker; Supt. Hensley, Messrs. W.A. Smith, H. Friend, H.W. Heppenstall, Cosham, Skerrett, Hollis, J. Shepherd, Simmons, Neal, J. Wilkinson, H. Lane, H. Morgan, G. Truelove, S. Ironmonger, Derry, J. H. Brown, and others.
The MAYOR spoke as follows: - Gentlemen, - The occasion which has led to your invitation to be here to-day is one which is highly interesting and very suggestive to us all, inasmuch as it celebrates the recognition on the part of the inhabitants of this borough of the services of an old and faithful and well tried official. It is suggestive because it is an indication of the respect of the people of the country for law and order. (Hear, hear.) There is more than a personal side to the event, there is an impersonal one, inasmuch as we know quite well that Mr. Liddell’s position has been one which has necessarily exhibited him in the character of an important, and I may say at times, of a somewhat stern official. His personal qualities – those qualities which have manifested themselves in his social intercourse with his fellow townsmen – are of another character, and they have won him esteem. The result is a combination of good feeling towards him, arising from the operation of those two motives, which has resulted in the presentation to him of a very handsome testimonial. (Cheers.) I think we ought to felicitate ourselves on any event which indicates on the part of the public who are responsible for the administration of the law. (Hear, hear). The laws of a country are the footprints of its civilisation, and we know that the cardinal virtue of good citizenship is respect and obedience to the law. (Applause.) Our coming here today, therefore, is more than a mere recognition of Mr. Liddell’s services or of his private qualities. We see them both combined, and we give expression to that combined feeling in what we are doing. I think it will be impossible to point to any instance – in any record in recent times at all events in this town – where there has been such a spontaneous manifestation of respect for anyone, and I am sure that when I announce the amount of the cheque which it is my pleasure to hand to Mr. Liddell, it will afford some surprise. It is no less a sum than £136 8s. 6d. – (applause) – and that amount has been very readily obtained. Our estimable secretary has put his heart into his work, and I am very glad to see him here to-day. As you know, he highly appreciates a joke, and in handing me this cheque, thereby showing his full sense of the dignity of the occasion, he has also requested me to announce that besides the £136 8s. 6d. there is an oddment of a halfpenny, which I am to present in the coin of the Realm. (Laughter.) It seems, from what Mr. Pratt has explained, that the halfpenny was received from some old friend of Mr. Liddell’s who had appreciated his attentions in times past, because he sent the halfpenny in an anonymous letter and signed himself, “Yours affectionately, 14 days.” (Laughter.) Can anything more admirably prove the estimable character of the Chief Constable to the borough than the fact that someone who has been under his care, and to whom he had manifested such anxiety for his welfare as to get him fourteen days – (laughter) – should yet out of the fullness of his gratitude so far wish to recognise the valuable services rendered him as to contribute to this testimonial. (Hear, hear, and laughter.) I will now hand this cheque to Mr. Liddell, and I have the pleasure also to present him with an address, which I will read: -
“This address is presented to Edward Liddell, accompanied by a purse of money, on his resignation of the office of Chief Constable of the borough of Newark the 5th day of January, 1892, as a testimonial of the high esteem in which he is held by the inhabitants, and as a recognition of the faithful and valuable services he has rendered during the 38 years he has held that appointment, with every good wish that he may live long to enjoy his well-earned retirement.” That address is signed by myself as Mayor, Mr. Pratt, secretary, and Mr. Marsland, treasurer. (Applause.) I will conclude by re-echoing the sentiments of the address, and wishing Mr. Liddell long life and happiness in his retirement. (Applause.)
The MAYOR then handed the cheque and address to Mr. Liddell. The address was elegantly framed and beautifully illuminated, having in one corner drawings of the Church and Town Hall, surmounted by the borough arms. It was the work of Mr. Helser Harrison, who is in the office of Borough Surveyor, and does him great credit.
Mr NEWTON said he should like to supplement the Mayor’s remarks with a few words of his own. Having been so closely connected with Mr. Liddell during the whole period in which he had held the office, no one had had a better opportunity of judging of the able way in which he had performed the duties. He hoped Mr Liddell would live long in his retirement to enjoy what he had received at the hands of his fellow-townsmen, and he was sure the gifts they had made would not only be pleasing to him, but to one who had been the partner with him in all his anxieties, and that was Mrs. Liddell. (Applause.)
Mr LIDDELL, in reply, said: - Mr. Mayor, and Gentlemen, - I feel that no words of mine will adequately convey my full appreciation of the kind wishes and expressions of good will, which have been uttered this afternoon, Neither can I sufficiently thank you for the very beautiful illuminated address and the handsome cheque you have presented me with, and which I most gratefully accept. (Applause.) All of you have been more or less long and intimately acquainted with my official career. It is, therefore unnecessary for me to refer to it, farther than to say how specially gratifying it is to me to find that after a service of 38 years in a highly responsible, and at times most difficult position, my conduct and performance of duties have merited your approval, and that I retire with such marked proofs of your kindness and esteem. (Applause.) In conclusion, Mr Mayor, and gentlemen, I thank you for your kind attendance this afternoon. I sincerely thank each and all who have so kindly contributed to this valuable testimonial, and I especially thank those whose personal exertions have brought the matter to such a successful issue. (Applause)
On the motion of Ald. PRATT, seconded my Mr. W. A. SMITH, a hearty vote of thanks was tendered to the Mayor, and the proceedings then terminated.
On Saturday, 12th November 1898, Judith died at the age of 66 at The Hospital, in London Road, Newark. She died of an Embolism and her younger sister Celia was at her bedside when she died. She was buried in a purchased grave in Newark Cemetery, London Road, in Newark on Tuesday, 15th November 1898.
Eight months later on Thursday, 27th July 1899, Edward Liddell died of Cardiac dilatation and asthenia at the age of 73. Edward, already retired from his position as Chief Constable of Newark, had been living at 72 Barnby Gate at the time of his death. On Saturday 29th July he was buried in the same grave as Judith, on the West side of Newark Cemetery, row “o”, grave No.38. Judith’s brother, Alfred was present at Edward’s death.
The Newark Advertiser printed a tribute to Edward in their 2nd of August edition…
DEATH OF EX-CHIEF CONSTABLE LIDDELL. - We regret to announce the death of Mr. Edward Liddell, who for 38 years filled the important office of Chief Constable of Newark, from which he retired in January, 1892. Mr. Liddell, who was born in May, 1826, and joined the police force in 1846, had been in failing health for some years, and the recent loss of his wife was a heavy blow to him. He was out for a drive a fortnight ago to-day, but his strength was fast giving way and notwithstanding the unremitting care of Dr. Appleby, who had Dr. Brookhouse in consultation, Mr. Liddell grew feebler from day to day, and expired on Thursday afternoon at three o’clock. Mr Liddell’s valuable services as a public official were recognised and rewarded in gratifying ways. On December 29th, 1891, the members of the police force presented him with a splendid silver-mounted Malacca cane, and a writing desk for Mrs. Liddell. In acknowledging the gifts he gave some interesting reminiscences of the state of affairs when he came to the town. He said the police had blue overalls to cover their trousers, big rattles in their belts fixed to a stout chain, and they carried long stick. The militiamen were billeted on the publicans, and were a different class of men to what they were now. It being wartime, the authorities were glad to get men of any description, and the town was pretty well overrun with thieves. One poor man was garrotted in the open street, and three of the thieves received five years penal servitude. Now there was hardly a town in England where crime was so small, and he attributed the creditable result in some measure to the diligence and efficiency of the police. The town showed it’s appreciation of Mr. Liddell by subscribing the cost of an illuminated address and £136 8s.6d., which was publicly presented to him in the Town Hall. The funeral took place on Saturday afternoon in Newark Cemetery, the Rev. W. B. Sealy officiating. The bearers were members of the force, and amongst those following were Mr. Richard Liddell, Darlington (brother); Miss Liddell (sister), Mr. And Mrs. Free, Mr. And Mrs. Stevens (Sheffield), Mr. J. G. Battersby and Mr A Battersby, Mr. and Mrs. Holland, Mr. G. Wilson, chief Constable Challen, Inspector Brooks, Mr Twibell, Sergt. Dooly, and others. The coffin was covered with beautiful wreaths, tributes of affection and respect from members of the family and friends; from Newton Lodge of Freemasons, of which he had long been a member; and from the Chief Constable and members of the Borough Police Force.
Members of Edward's family were showing their respects by following his coffin. His brother Richard Liddell, by then a retired Superintendent of Police, was accompanied by his and Edward's sister. Both Ann Liddell and Elizabeth Liddell were unmarried and living in Merrington in Durham in 1901 so either could have attended Edward's funeral. Judith's sister's married name was Battersby, so Mr J Battersby and Mr A Battersby were quite likely to have been Judith's nephews.
Thanks to:
Bill Withers, Tim Warner,
Kay Russell, Sally Van Gent,
Newark Library,
Milgate Museum, and
The Newark Advertiser
Penarth Town Mayoress
Councillor Ruby Parsons
(1915 - 1987)
Councillor Mrs Ruby Parsons was born Ruby E. E. Cavanagh to John James Cavanagh and Ruby Elizabeth Rixson early in 1915. Her birth was registered in the March quarter of that year in Cardiff registration district.
She became Mrs Ruby Parsons when she married Steven J. J. Parsons late in 1939 in East Glamorgan where her marriage is registered in the December quarter of that year.
Mrs Parsons' political career, which spanned four decades, began in 1969 when she stood as a Conservative Candidate and was elected a member of Penarth Urban District Council. She held the position of Chairman of the District Council from 1873 - 1874. She was also a borough councillor for the Vale of Glamorgan Council from its inception in 1974, sitting on most of its major committees and becoming chairman of the leisure services committee.
Ruby Parsons then became a member of Penarth Town Council after its name change, and was elected to the position of Penarth Town Mayor on Friday May 20th 1977.
As Lady Mayor, Ruby carried out a number of duties including the presentation of Jubilee mugs to pupils at LLandough Primary School on behalf of the Town Council for the Queens Silver Jubilee in June 1977, and another presentation of a barometer to Lt Cmdr H Steel (SCC) RNR on his retirement from TS Glamorgan after eitht years as Commanding Officer of the unit of sea Cadets.
In the December of 1977 she was quoted as being disgusted that the Town Council would not support a fresh planning application by Dr E F Griffiths for an extension to his surgery at 18 Victoria Square, and at the beginning of January 1978, she was one of the guests at the Paget Rooms where a most successful Christmas dinner was enjoyed by Penarth OAPs.
Ruby Parsons remained a town councillor until 1982.
In a tribute in the South Wales Echo on February 18, 2003, the death of Ruby Parsons was announced in the Family announcements …
'A lovely lady with strong views' The death of... ...RUBY Parsons, formerly of Salop Street, Penarth. She died on January 24, aged 87, and is survived by a son and two grandchildren.
Thanks to
Simon Mapp,
The Penarth Times,
The South Wales Echo &
The Penarth Town Council.
Author & Bookseller
GEOFFREY PALMER
(1912 - 2005)
Geoffrey Palmer was born as Geoffrey Rabbitt on 22nd August 1912 in Edwinstowe, Nottinghamshire, on the edge of Sherwood Forest. He was the son of William Rabbitt from Edwinstowe and Ivy Jelly Fletcher, born in the Basford registration district, (her middle name, Jelly, being a family name passed down through the generations). Geoffrey had a younger sister named Margaret Joan Rabbitt.
The year Geoffrey was born, 1912, was the year the Titanic went down. He lived through the First World War and remembered his village decorated with flags and balloons on Armistice Day. He spent a lot of time with his Grandma, Maria Rabbitt, during and after the war, when she had a tiny cottage in the High Street in Edwinstowe.
Geoffrey went to the Church School in Edwinstowe and studied under the Headmaster at that time, Mr Greaves. He attended Brunts Grammar School before moving onto Nottingham University College, followed by five years teaching at Lowdham.
Geoffrey wrote his first book in 1940, a novel titled ‘To Church on Sunday,’ which was published by Chapman and Hall.
He survived a second World War. Geoffrey was a pacifist and his war years were spent in the ambulance service, although he never drove an ambulance. He also spent time in the Adelphi Players, later forming his own theatre company before joining the Rock Theatre Company.
After the war Geoffrey became a professional actor, his company did a tour of ‘Murder in the Cathedral’ and ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ as well as ‘Tobias and the Angel’, played at the Stratford Memorial Theatre with Geoffrey playing the lead role.
It was while working for this company that he met Noel Lloyd who was to be his long time friend and partner.
Noel’s name was John Noel Lloyd, but he preferred Noel. He was twelve years Geoffrey’s junior. Both Geoffrey and Noel went on a six-month tour of the Far East with the Council for the Encouragement of Music and the Arts, and then later they settled in London, Noel got a job with the Adelphi Guild Players and Geoffrey resumed his teaching.
In 1951 Geoffrey was appointed Deputy Head of the new Highbury Quadrant Primary School situated in the London Borough of Islington. He was made head of the school in 1955 and remained there for 18 years until he retired in 1974.
For a time Geoffrey and Noel rented a flat directly opposite the Highbury School in Highbury New Park.
They wrote at least 30 books together. Their first joint book was published in 1962.
Their fantasy children’s collection appeared from ‘Ghosts Go Haunting’ (published in 1963) to ‘Haunting Stories of Ghosts and Ghouls’ (published in 1982).
They wrote a few of Observer’s Guides, No. 50, about ‘London’ (first published in 1973), No. 73, about the ‘Cotswolds and Shakespeare Country’ (first published in 1978), and No. 90, ‘Victoriana’, (first published in 1981).
There were also a few biographies, one in particular about E.F.Benson, (first published in 1988).
After Geoffrey’s retirement he and Noel opened a few bookshops, the first of which was The Compton Book Shop, opened in Upper Street, Islington, in 1976. They later moved to a shop in Eye, Suffolk, then finally another in Harleston, Norfolk. After the bookshops they started publishing under the name Hermitage Books, and specialized in the works of E.F. Benson.
Although Geoffrey became ill and developed a heart condition later requiring a pacemaker, he outlived Noel who died suddenly in August of 1998 of a heart attack. After a short stay in a hospital in Norwich, Geoffrey himself died at the grand age of 92 on 22nd January 2005.
Thanks to:
Michael Taylor,
Pamela Clayton,
and Geoffrey.
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