CHARMOUTH HEADLINES OVER THE CENTURIES |
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Charmouth`s history has been enlivened with a number of newsworthy stories. We hope to bring them to life in the manner of a tabloid with sensational headlines. The stories have come mainly from scouring newspapers or documents of the time now held at the Dorset Family Centre in Dorchester. | |
Year
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Event |
1685
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Charmouth Fisherman wrongly executed |
" Samuel Robins of Charmouth who was executed or rather murdered, at Wareham, I cannot pass him in silence, his case being so extraordinary hard. |
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1739 |
The Flying Coach - Wonder of the day arrives in Charmouth |
"Our townsmen beheld by only going to Charmouth, the wonder of the day, better known as " The Exeter Flying Stage Coach" which reached Dorchester from London in two days and reached Exeter in three days. The lofty Stonebarrow Hill had to be ascended from Morcombelake and the descent - a perilous one - to be made by the main road, better called narrow lane, beyond the eastern brook by Charmouth, since abandoned for one further inland, and recently for one still further inland, by which the hill from Morcombelake is altogether avoided." 9th April 1739 |
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1778 |
Pirates steal Cattle at Charmouth |
"A French privateer's crew landed in the night of the 3oth ult. and carried off from the coast near Charmouth in Dorsetshire, three oxen and a dozen sheep, but their noise awaking a poor man at his cottage." |
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1783 |
Manor of Charmouth to be auctioned by Francis Henvill |
The St. James’s Chronicle, or British Evening Post, Saturday May 24th, 1783 |
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1786 |
Charmouth Widower is sentenced to 7 years transportation for stealing cloth |
"Samuel Burridge a labourer aged 60, height 5 foot 7 inches with a crooked nose, wide nostrils, lusty looking was given 7 years transportation for stealing cloth. He was placed on board the Dunkirk at Plymouth". 16th June 1786 |
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1789 |
King George III climbs up Hill into Charmouth |
"Between Bridport and Chard are two very large steep hills, Chideock and Charmouth. It was impossible for his majesty's horses could here proceed in the swift manner in which he usually travels. The King, Lord Courton, Colonel Goldswothy, &c. dismounted, and walked up the hill. The King said he had never travelled such a stage in his life. During all this part of the road the multitude walked with him, and at times conversed familiarly with such as were near him. The people of the village of Charmouth had prepared a lofty triumphal Arch of oak bought, with a crown of Laurel and wreaths of flowers. It was prepared by the rude hands of industrious peasants, but yet it was a greater compliment than the most magnificent column ever erected by the hand of tyranny to celebrate rapine and cruelty" . 20th August 1789 |
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1799 |
John Diments House to Let |
1800 |
House to Let |
1803 |
Charmouth manor house for sale In 1803 |
1803 |
Tragedy besets Hero in Charmouth |
"On Saturday the 11 th inst. As Captain Harrison, paymaster of the Royal dragoons, was leading his horse down Charmouth Hill, the horse snapped at him, and caught hold of his left hand, by which he lifted him from the ground (a weight of between 17 and 18 stone shaking his head, and stamping with great rage; the whole of the fore finger came away, and with it the tendon which connects it to the elbow; the horse then galloped off. Captain Harrison went on to the village of Charmouth, where he obtained a chaise, and proceeded on his journey to Dorchester Barracks. |
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1805 |
To be sold by Private Contract,- A House with a Garden ( walled round) behind the same, and other convenient offices thereto belonging, well calculated for a moderate sized family, situate in the centre of the delightful village of charmouth, and commanding the sea.- Possession may be had at Christmas next - A portion of the purchase money may remain upon mortgage. For further particulars, apply ( post paid) to Mr. John Ridges. C.1805 |
1809 |
Huge reward for Capture of Charmouth Prisoner |
" Broke out of Dorchseter Gaol, on the night of Sunday the 5 th of February 1809 � Benjamin Crocker, late of Charmouth, Dorset, and formerly of Winsham, Somerset, charged with forgery. He is 30 years of age, 5 feet 8 inches high, has grey eyes, swarthy complexion, a cut on the left side of the chin near the mouth, a mole on the left side of the upper lip, a cut on the middle of, and hesitates when he speaks. |
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The Mail and two other coaches pass daily through Charmouth from London to Plymouth, it being the Great Western Road � Bathing Machines are kept on the beach during the summer season, for the accommodation of the company who resort to this truly pleasant and healthy spot - May 15th, 1810 |
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Charmouth, Dorset To be Let, for a Term of Ten Years from Lady Day next. All that Overland, called Sea - Side Farm,situate in the Parish of Charmouth, in the County of Dorset. Containing by estimation, 40 Acres of exceedingly rich Pasture and Arable Land, and between 30 and 40 Acres of Rough Land, called the Cliff, bounding the said Farm on the Sea-Side - There is a Lime Kiln on the Estate, and a sufficient quantity of excellent Lime-Stone may be taken from the Beach for manuring the premises, and, independent of this, the Sea Weed, annually thrown on the Beach, and to which the tenant, has the exclusive right is more than sufficient to manure the whole Estate. - The Tenant to pay all the Taxes, except the Landlords Property Tax and to keep the Premises in repair. Tenders are to be made in writing, and to be delivered, or sent post-paid, to John Harvey Pierce, Esq. New Park, Near Axminster, or to messrs. Flood and Mules, Solicitors, Honiton, on or before the 24th day of September inst. and immediately after which, the Person approved of, will have notice that his offer is accepted. For viewing the Premises, Apply to Mrs. Liddon, in Charmouth aforesaid, the Owner, who will direct a Person to show the same, and further Particulars may be known on application to the above named John Harvey Pierce Esq. or Messrs. flood and Mule, Honiton. September 9, 1811. |
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1811 |
Sea Side Farm (Higher Sea lane) to Let |
Charmouth. |
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1812 |
Description of Charmouth |
1813 |
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Education - Charmouth - Dorset |
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1815 |
Charmouth Mills available to rent |
"Mills to be let, and entered upon at Lady's Day next � the long established Water Grist and Flour Mills, situated at Charmouth, in the county of Dorset, together with an exceedingly good dwelling house, large stables, and other requisite buildings, and upwards of six acres of rich Meadow Ground immediately adjoining � The house is sufficiently large to admit of letting a great part to lodgings in the bathing season, which the present tenant has been accustomed to do, and possesses also conveniency for carrying on the business of baking. � These premises will be let for a year, and more land may be had if required. |
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1817 |
Crew of French Ship perish off Charmouth |
"The Trois Amis, of Bourdeaux, bound to Rouen, was totally lost near Bridport during the gale on Sunday night. Only a passenger was saved. And a French Chasee Maree, laden with wine, was totally lost on Charmouth Beach with all the crew. Cargo saved". 30th January 1817 |
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1817 Luttrell House and its neighbour, Peria |
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1818 |
To be sold by Private Contract, 1818 |
1822 |
Charmouth Farmer charged with Burglary |
"Saturday night, a farmer named Sansom, of Charmouth, was committed to Dorchester Gaol, charged with being concerned in a burglary committed at the Agency Office of the Dorchester Bank at Bridport, about five years since, from whence property to a large amount was taken. What led to his apprehension was, his passing several of the stolen notes at three sales in the neighbourhood within about a fortnight". 11 April 1822 | |
1823 |
Charmouth Businessman`s factory washed away |
"Friday night, in consequence of the great swell of water, owing to the quantity of rain that had fallen within the week, the bridge at Charmouth was washed away. A house occupied by Mr.Burnard, in the manufacture of sail cloth, immediately below the bridge, was carried away by the flood, together with a quantity of cloth and dyeing utensils, of which a valuable copper boiler has been since found in the sea. In a field above the bridge stood a Hay Rick, which was carried by the flood through the field, out at the gate, and lodged in safety at the side of the turnpike road. A temporary bridge has since been erected; before it was finished the coaches were of necessity dragged through the river by men". 25th October 1823 |
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1824 |
Boat Party saved by brave Charmouth man |
"Last week, a party sailed from Bridport to Lyme Regis, and on being overtaken by a thunderstorm, they put in at Charmouth, where they left the boat for a few hours on the beach while they proceeded to Lyme. On their return to take their boat they found the shoe beaten off, not withstanding they ventured to go to sea, and in a few minutes the boat began to fill with water, which so much alarmed then that they immediately made for shore. But before they reached it the boat filled. Fortunately, however, the lives were saved by a person standing on the beach, who stropped himself, plunged into the land- wash, and luckily reached a rope attached to the boat and succeeded in drawing it safe to land. Mr. Foss, innkeeper, at Charmouth, proceeded to the beach, and on examining the boat it was found to have been stoved by some malicious fellow during the day". 9th September 1824 | |
1824 |
Violent Storm destoys a number of boats and buildings. |
The dreadful effects of the late tempest have been severely felt in the neighbourhood. A cutter was totally wrecked near the Cob. The men on board lashed themselves to the mast- head, but as no one could possibly go to their assistance, they were lost, and have not yet been picked up. The Unity, Pearce master, bound for London, was also driven out of the harbour. Three men were on board, besides the Captain. They remained a considerable time in a very distressed condition under the cliffs at Charmouth, but as soon as the tide left them, they were rescued from their perilous state, and conveyed to the Coach and Horses public house at Charmouth, where they were immediately provided with a bed. One of them, a young man, named Clark, was insensible the whole of the day; he is, however, with his companions, now recovered. The beautiful promenade in Lyme is entirely destroyed. The house called the Cob House, which was lately purchased by Mr.Walker, of Weymouth, was washed to the ground in a few minutes after himself and family had quitted it. They were all obliged to be taken out of the windows. The Hotel, and several houses near the Cob, the Bank House and all the houses opposite the Pilot Boat, are in a wretched state: the sea rolled right through them, and carried away everything that came in its way. Bennetts Hot Baths were washed to pieces. Scarcely a house in Lyme had escaped uninjured. The town on Wednesday presented a scene of real distress; not more than three or four shops were opened, but all business was suspended". 29th November 1824 |
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1825 |
Smugglers attempt to murder Customs Officer on Charmouth Beach |
On the night of Saturday week, three men of the Lyme Preventive Station were on the look-out near the mouth of the Charmouth River, where they captured 150 kegs and two men. They had not retained possession long before they were attacked by a party of smugglers 70 or 80 in number and as is usual in such adventures they appeared affected by liquor. They advanced with great violence. In defence, the officers were compelled to fire in the midst of them, in consequence of which, one man fell and was carried off by the party, who immediately retreated carrying with them all but 10 kegs and the two prisoners. One of the officers named Davis was mistaken for his brother, an extremely active man stationed near Bridport and nothing short of murder was intended towards him, as an attempt was made to cut his throat, which did not take effect, as the stock in his cravat prevented the weapon from making any serious incision. The smugglers continued to discharge large stones from the cliff upon the Revenue men who, though they were preserved by the darkness of the night from destruction, received some severe contusions, and are now confined in consequence." 31st January 1825 |
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1826 |
Charmouth Man sentenced to death after Burglary at Village Inn. |
"Dorchester Assizes commenced on Thursday, before Mr Justice Littledale and Mr Justice Gaselee, who after opening the Commission proceeded to hear divine service at St. Peters Church. |
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1828 |
Charmouth Seaman imprisoned for Smuggling |
"Henry Tippen, a married Charmouth Seaman aged 49 with a swarthy complexion was imprisoned for smuggling until he pays the penalty of £100". 3rd March 1828 |
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Charmouth Mills to Let |
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1830 |
30 Charmouth Men join up to save village from Mob. |
"Understanding there is to be a meeting this morning in the Vestry Room to take into consideration the best means of securing the safety of he village upon the event of a mob passing through it, and being prevented from attending it in consequence of a severe cold, I take the liberty of submitting to you my sentiments upon this subject; it appears to me not a moment should be lost in swearing as many petty constables as can be mustered in the place, each constable should be armed with a staff and so divided as not only to protect the village but promptly to concentrate he selves in case of an attack. I hope you will be able to collect at least thirty men in whom you can confide. I trust no inhabitants will submit to have money extorted from by the mob, be their numbers what they may, as am fully convinced that firmness upon theses occasions be our best protection". 24th November 1830 |
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1830 |
Local Vicars wife hides smuggled brandy in novel hiding place |
"The Rev. Thomas Hodges and wife lived in a house opposite the Church - Luttrell House and she got her brandy cheap from the smugglers then infecting the coast. The Excise officers lived at the bottom of the village. Their Chief wrote to the Rev. Hodges saying that he was coming down for a few days as he had work to do down there. Mrs Hodges got very anxious thinking he had heard of the brandy, but she knew well and trusted the excise officers house keeper, so she consulted her and when suggested the incriminating bottles should be put in a cupboard in the excise officers own house, as the last place he would suspect. This was agreed to Mrs Hodges brought down the bottles hidden in the vast muff fashionable at the time". 1830 |
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1832 |
Charmouth Man imprisoned for stealing Cabbages. |
"George Stevens from Charmouth, a married labourer, aged 25 received 2 months hard labour for stealing cabbages." 10th July 1832 |
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1833 |
A large fossil reptile of the antediluvian age has been taken out of the blue Lias on Charmouth Beach, Dorsetshire.It has been previously sold for four sovereigns to a member of the Geological Society, and proved to be of the genus Ichthyosaurus, partaking of the alligator and lizard species. It measured about six feet in length, and was only to be reached at extremely low tides, which may account for it not being discovered before. |
1833 |
Charmouth, Dorset |
1837 |
Charmouth Stores is available to let. |
"To Drapers, Grocers, Ironmongers, and General Shopkeepers. To be let, with immediate possession, in the populous village of Charmouth, Dorset,- A good, extensive shop, warehouse, and dwelling house adjoining, lately in the occupation of Samuel Aplin, where a considerable trade has been done, and susceptible of great improvement, Rent moderate. Apply (if by letter, post paid) to George Biddlecombe, Winsham, near Chard." 7 April 1837 |
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1840 |
Huge Whale beached at Charmouth |
"A large female whale was driven on shore at Charmouth yesterday morning, and secured by the preventive men, who have been allowed by Mr. Bullen , the lord of the manor, to exhibit for three days. It measures. 46 feet from the tail to the snout and 24 feet circumference." 6th February 1840 |
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1844 |
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1844 | |
1841 | Dorset- Charmouth-
Votes for Borough of Lyme Regis |
28th September 1844 |
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1850 |
House to let Charmouth - 1850 |
1850 |
Davis, Preventative Officer nearly killed |
On Wednesday Night a Strong Party of men advances to the beach at Charmouth to run a cargo of Tubs, prepared, no doubt, to encounter opposition. Davis, one of the Preventative Station at Lyme Regis, fired his pistol to give the alarm, when he was attacked and over powered by numbers. His sword was broken into four pieces and after being jumped upon by some of the party,so as to endanger life, he as carried to low water mark, with the intention, as is said, if causing his death by drowning on the rise of the tide. A man was next day arrested and charged with being present, he was taken on Monday to Bridport for examination before a bench of. County magistrates, but in consequence of the dangerous state in which Davies lies, he could not be moved, the prisoner is again placed in Lyme Gaol. Davis is the ,an who was beaten some time since by a similar party at the same place. | |
1850 | 13 July 1850 - Exeter and Plymouth Gazette |
1851 |
Tragic accident on Charmouth Hill |
"It is this week our painful duty to record most distressing accident that occurred in this place on Friday last. About 5 o` clock in the afternoon of that day as C.B.Goddard , esq., merchant of Lyme Regis, and his wife, were in their carriage descending the hill on the Lyme Road, which leads into Charmouth, the horse suddenly became entirely unmanageable, rushing down the hill with such swiftness that Mr. Goddard could by no means guide it through the turn, commonly called �Wildes Corner�, so that it ran against a window of the house occupied by Mr, John Wilde, Mr and Mrs Goddard were thrown completely through the window, being most severely cut and bruised. They were conveyed in a senseless state to the house of Mr. D. Board, when medical aid was immediately procured, and the most kind and prompt attention paid them by the Charmouth ladies. Throughout the night but little hopes were entertained of their recovery; however at the time we write (Sunday), they were somewhat better. The horse was so much injured that it was thought advisable to kill it immediately." 8th May 1851 |
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1852 |
Ten Years transportation for Charmouth Forger |
"Forger Benjamin Wild was charged with assisting Thomas Potter in forging an order for £10 it appeared that the prisoner was a native of Charmouth and was occasionally employed as a hostler at the Coach and Horses there. An old gentleman named Bullen, who had been a solicitor in London, had retired to Charmouth, and lived there; he had a banking account at Goslings in London; he was in bad health, and having occasion for a clerk, he took a lad named Potter into his service. Potter became acquainted with Wild. Potter at length commenced plundering Mr Bullen, which plunder he shared with Wild. In August 1851, Mr Bullen missed his purse, and Potter confessed he had stolen it, and on the 15th of August was dismissed. On the 10 th of August, Bullen was informed that checks with his name forged were in circulation, and he communicated with the London Police, who set to work, and it resulted in Potter, Wild and a man named Collin being apprehended in London. They were then dressed as midshipmen, with caps and gold bands. Potter was convicted, but Wild gave such a favourable account of himself that he was discharged. After his apprehension Potter made a statement, which led to the second apprehension of Wild. According to this statement, Wild had induced Potter to forge a check for £10 in the name of Bullen, for the purpose of seeing the Great Exhibition. He afterwards forged other checks for £10 16s 0d and £20 10s. Potters evidence was corroborated in most particulars by other witnesses. The jury found the prisoner Guilty, and he was sentenced to ten years transportation". 30th March 1852 |
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1853 |
8 children from the Dunn family wiped out in September |
"In the parish of Charmouth malignant scarltina has proved fatal in the family of a mechanic (consisting of himself, wife and 10 children). Within 3 weeks 7 of the children died, and today I have notice of another death in the same family. The medical attendant informs me the children were all predisposed to malignant disease, having but little stamina and being ill fed and not properly attended to in the first instance. I cannot trace the disease to malaria or any atmospheric agency, as the disease is confined to the above family, and has not spread at all".Exeter and Plymouth Gazette 6th November 1852 An extract from the Registrars Quarterly Returns for Axminster | |
1853 |
Manor of Charmouth up for sale in London |
"Particulars of a truly Valuable & singularly Compact Freehold Estate comprising the Manor of Charmouth, with the rights, Royalties, Fines Etc., Also a Comfortable Residence distinguished as Langmoor House, containing accommodation for a respectable family, productive garden, Coach House, stabling approached by a carriage drive through Park like land beautifully timbered, on the high road leading from Bridport to Axminster, together with several enclosures of Meadows, Arable & wood land approaching 100 acres a portion of which is bounded by the Sea Shore, on which, and in the cliffs, are found an abundance of Cement & Blue Lias Stone, Pyrite and other minerals. The right of collecting the same appertains to this manor from which a rental may be obtained, also the right of fishing in the River Char. Which will be sold by Auction, by Messrs H. Brown & T.A. Roberts at the Auction Mart, opposite the Bank of England on Thursday 18 th August 1853 at 12 o clock in one lot. The Premises may be viewed on Application to Matthew John Liddon Esq. RN Charmouth of whom particulars with a plan may be had". 18th August 1853 |
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1853 |
Cement Works planned for Charmouth Beach |
"That part of Charmouth cliffs adjoining, belonging to M.Liddon, Esq., lying between the Sea Lane and Lyme, has lately been purchased by a company of Plymouth Gentlemen. |
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1854 | 18 February 1854 - Bristol Mercury |
1855 |
Fernhill for Sale |
1856 | |
1857 |
Mother and Child nearly die in accident outside Mrs Carter`s Shop |
The inhabitants of Charmouth were horrified on Wednesday last, at seeing a horse in a gig, in which was a lady with an infant in her arms, dashing down the street at a most terrific pace. On reaching the Coach and Horses Inn, the horse turned to go into the stable yard, but got in contact with a horse and phaeton belonging to Mr. Miller, of the Lion Hotel, Lyme, which was standing there at the time. By the collision the shafts of the gig were broken off, and the lady and child thrown into the road. Mr. Millers horse (a blind one) immediately darted off across the road, passing over the lady and her child, and driving his head through Mrs. Carter's shop window, carrying away the window and the sides of the doorway, and doing considerable damage to the goods in the shop. The lady and infant were taken into the Coach and Horses, where every attention was paid that the circumstances required. Soon afterwards the husband, Mr. Thornton, Excise Officer of Colyton arrived in a most exhausted state, having run from Penn Inn (nearly a mile and a half), and immediately swooned away. The lady remained in an unconscious state for a great many hours, but ultimately recovered sufficiently to be removed home in the evening of the next day. No bones were broken, but it is feared an internal injury has happened. The child escaped miraculously without sustaining the slightest injury. The accident happened through the reprehensible custom of taking off the blind halter to feed the horse (which was done at Penn Inn) without taking it out of the vehicle. The gig was literally smashed to atoms. On Thursday, an inquest was held at the Coach and Horses before S.S. Cory, Esq., coroner, on the body of a female child, aged 3 years, named Cozens, whose parents left her in the house in their absence, when she was burnt to death. The jury returned a verdict � accidentally burnt to death� and severely censured the mother for her carelessness to her children in general. 25th August 1857 |
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1857 |
18th July 1857 |
1858 |
Charmouth`s first Photographer |
"This pretty little fashionable watering place, which is provided with nearly every trade and profession has just added to its list of professors that of Photographic Artist", in the person of Mr. J. Bottomley, schoolmaster, whose abaility and taste have already displayed themselves in the specimens that he has taken.16th October 1858 | |
30 July 1863 - Dorset County Chronicle | |
1864 |
Railway coming to Charmouth |
"Railway Accommodation being very much needed at Charmouth and Lyme Regis, a company has been formed for he purpose of constructing a line from Chard Road to Lyme Regis, with a branch to Charmouth, from Penn Inn. A meeting for the purpose of discussing the matter was held on Wednesday evening, the 13th instant, at Lyme Regis, F.Hinton, Esq, Mayor, in the chair, when a large number of gentlemen, tradesmen, &c., of Lyme and Charmouth were present, and on the following evening, another meeting took place at Charmouth. Mr Morcombe, of Charmouth, occupying the chair. Several gentlemen and tradesmen were present, and took practical speeches were made, and here is a fair probability of the railway being constructed, as a portion of the intended line has been surveyed, and there is every reason to believe it is bona fide affair, as the promoters, as well as the inhabitants of both Charmouth and Lyme, see the great necessity of a railway, and furer there is a prospect of paying the shareholders a fair if not good dividend". 1864 |
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1865 |
Railway Station planned for Charmouth |
" The projected railway There is again presented to us the bright and alluring vision of a railway for his district, but whether it is to assume actual shape or form, or like its precursors, amuse us for awhile, and them melt into thin air.I will not attempt to predict. The intended line is entitled the "Bridport, Lyme and South Coast Railway", and is to connect the Great Western at Bridport with the South Western at a point about midway between Axminster and Chard Road, throwing off a branch at Whitchurch for Lyme.It is this branch which will pass through this place. The first Charmouth Mead is the spot selected for the station. After passing Charmouth, the proposed line will make a considerable detour, the distance fom Lyme , which is about two miles by the road, would be about four by the proposed rail.The only work of any difficulty in the neighbourhood would be a tunnel of 847 yards, between this and Lyme, and through the hill, near Penn Inn. Pitleaves, a field near the cemetery, is to be the Terminus at Lyme. The maps and plans of so much as relates to this parish are now at the clerk' s office for inspection, and a bill is to be brought to parliament during the next session. There can be no doubt but that a railway would be a very material benefit to us, and if it should be carried out, as we hope it will, the beauties of Charmouth will then, no doubt, attract a large share of public attention." 1865 |
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1865 |
Visit to Charmouth by famous Railway Engineer |
"John C. Hawkshaw, Esq., paid this place a visit on the 25 August and called on his votes and many friends and cordially thanked them, and the church bell rang on he occasion. Waterworks - We have much pleasure in saying that these works, so liberally presented to Charmouth by that eminent engineer and large landowner, John Hawkshaw, Esq., are fast approaching completion, and when finished, will be one of the greatest boons ever conferred on the inhabitants. |
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1865 | 30 November 1865 - Dorset County Chronicle |
1865 | 6th June 1865 Sherborne Mercury |
1867 |
Royal Oak, Lower Sea Lane, for Sale |
Charmouth Royal Oak Mr. J. Jerrard will offer fo sale by Auction on Friday 6th July next, at the Coach and Horses, in Charmouth aforesaid at 5 o'clock in the afternoon, subject to such conditions as will be then and there produced, and in the following or such other lots as shall be determined on at the time of the Sale - the following Valuable Freehold property. Lot 1. - All that well- known and commodius Public House called the "Royal Oak", situate in the Lower Sea Lane, in Charmouth aforesaid, together with the coal yard, coal shed, and other outbuildings, now in the occupation of Mr. George Payne. Lot 2. - All those two newly erected and substantial cottages with excellent gardens, together with the pasture field, adjoining, in the respective occupations of Job. Hodder, James Read, and George Payne, situate in Lower Sea Lane aforesaid. For viewing the premises apply to Mr. Thomas Carter, Charmouth,and for further particulars to the auctioneer, or Mr. andrew Tucker, Solictor, Charmouth and Lyme Regis. June 14th, 1867 |
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1867 |
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1867 |
Valuable Freehold Estate, delightfully placed at I Charmouth. on the sea coast, a short distance from the rising and favourite watering-place of Lyme Regis ; consisting of ...compact 09 April 1867 - Morning Post - London, London, England |
1867 |
Charmouth Hospital opens |
"One of those excellent institutions on a small scale is about to be established at this place, to be supported by voluntary subscription. A House has been taken, capable of receiving a few patients, in which a nurse will reside. It will be under the Superintendence of Mr. Norris, surgeon (originator of scheme) and a committee." 21st February 1867 |
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1868 |
Poor House on Old Lyme Hill destroyed by Thuderbolt |
"At about 3 o clock the inmates of a house at the head of the village on the Lyme Road were aroused by an extrodianary noise which proved to be occasioned by a Thunderbolt. The house was formerly the parish Workhouse.It was occupied by two families, eleven people were in the house at the time. Quickly the roof was in flames and an alarm raised. But nothing could save the premises.Most of the furniture was got out and the neighbouring buildings escaped. The lightening entered the roof near the chimney and passed through the ceilings and floor, and an explosion or forcible entry of the fluid into the earth is said to have immediately followed. It is miraculous that all inmates escaped serious injury." September 30 1868 | |
1873 |
Charmouth House with 5 acres up for auction |
"Sale by Auction at the Coach and Horses Inn, Charmouth on Monday 3rd March, 1873 at 1 o' clock in the afternoon, the under mentioned desirable freehold property situated in the parish of Charmouth in the following lots. |
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1873 |
Sexton stole from Church Collection Box |
"On Tuesday, Job Gordges, sexton of Charmouth, was bought before the county magistrates at Beaminster, charged with robbing the contribution box in Charmouth Church. Mr Andrew Tucker, solicitor, said: I am the rector's Churchwardens for Charmouth Parish. About a month since, I was informed by the rector that the contribution box in the church had been repeatedly robbed of money. I communicated with Mr M. Hale, when it was arranged that I should mark certain silver coins in the presence of police constable Hawker. I marked one half crown, two one shilling pieces, and two sixpences, which the constable, with myself placed in he contribution box. About a fortnight subsequent, on looking into the box, I found the whole of the money was gone. I then saw police constable Hawker, and informed him of it. I then arranged with the constable to mark a half sovereign, and one shilling, which I did in his presence, on Sunday, 7th June, by marking a cross with my knife on the tail of the coin, just underneath the crown. On Monday, the 8th June, I placed the half sovereign and shilling, so marked in the box. The prisoner, his daughter, and the wife of Job Gordges, we're in the church, cleaning it out. After they left to go to dinner, about half- past one o' clock, I went into the church, and opened the box, and there found the half sovereign and shilling untouched. On going into the church, last night, after the church had been locked up by the prisoner, and on again, opening the box, I discovered the half sovereign and shilling had been abstracted. I went to police constable Hawker, and accompanied him to the prisoners house, and there found the half sovereign now produced, which is the same as the one marked, and placed in the box. Police Constable Hawker said: On Sunday the 7th instant, I apprehended the prisoner, and on searching his house, the wife produced some money, and amongst it, the half sovereign now produced, and which is the same as I saw Mr Tucker mark and put in the box. The prisoner said: I received a sovereign some time ago from Mr John Carter, the postmaster, of Charmouth, and the same day changed it at Mr Holly's, at the Coach and Horses Inn, and received, in part change, the half sovereign found in my house. the prisoner was committed for trial, but bail was consented to." 7th June 1873 |
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1879 |
The World's Greatest Walker passes through Charmouth |
"The inhabitants of Charmouth were all excitement on Friday night owing to the approach of Weston, the pedestrian. A torchlight procession was formed, flags were hoisted, and the band turned out to escort him through the village. Shortly after 10p.m., Weston made his appearance, with a number of people at his heels, the band playing" See, the Conquering Hero comes" Weston seemed anything but a " conquering hero" then, for he was either much annoyed at the crowd who surrounded him, or was terribly fagged." 31st January 1879 |
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1880 |
Houses for sale where Thomas Potter. Wild and Fippen live at top of The Street.Bridport News - Friday 14 May 1880 |
1883 |
Terrible Storm floods Lower Sea lane, Charmouth |
"Two smacks, the Edward and Mary, of Lyme, Hodder master and the Union, of Plymouth, Royes master, we're driven from the moorings, and wrecked (the former completely), under the Marine Parade, Lyme close to the steps leading to the bathing machines. A new wall, lately built by Mr. Haycroft, enclosing the old shipyard, was washed down by the waves, the tide being high. |
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1888 |
Village Inn and Houses go up in flames. |
"At an early hour on Tuesday morning the inhabitants of the top of the village were aroused by the cry of fire. About five o' clock a fire was discovered to have broken out at Mr Durrant's grocery stores. Ready help was soon at hand, but despite the efforts that were displayed nothing could save the adjoining buildings. The Dwelling house which Mr Durrant occupied adjoining the stores was totally destroyed, and the New Inn, occupied by Mr. H. Wild, which was roofed with thatch, was also laid in ruins; while the premises belonging to Mr. Wallis and Mr J. Lugg was much damaged by the fire. As the fire broke out at an early hour and a dense fog prevailed help was limited to the part of the village where the fire originated, but owing to a well organised system in which Lieutenant Colonel Little was the leader, the neighbouring premises were saved from destruction. Most of the furniture was saved at the New Inn, but the whole of the stock in trade belonging to Mr Durrant was destroyed. Several of the neighbours had to remove their goods for safety, and great praise is due to the many helpers. The goods were stored by Messrs. D. Board, Oliver, Durrant, &c, for the time being. The property and furniture were insured with the Sun, West of England, and two other offices. The Lyme Regis fire engine made a start for the fire, but was unable to proceed for want of a horse. Ihe damage is estimated at about £1,500." 13th January 1888 |
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1891 |
Villagers help Charmouth Shop fire from greater destruction. |
"Early on Sunday morning, a fire broke out in the house of Mr Hazard, shopkeeper, and resulted in the total destruction of the house and the contacts of the shop and storerooms and a large portion of the household furniture. About 5.30a.m. Mrs Hazard, noticed smoke in the bedroom, and on her husband going downstairs he found the shop was in flames. An alarm was raised, and with assistance, which was readily rendered, the contents of some of the front rooms were removed. At the time of the discovery the fire had a good hold on the building, but fortunately it was prevented from spreading to the house of Colonel Little and others in close proximity. Supt. Freeman, P.S. Sprackling, and P.C.'s Elliott, Batson, Hoddinott, and Gould were present, and rendered every assistance. The house was the Roberts of Mr Hazard, and with the contents, was only partially insured. The origin of the fire is unknown." |
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1894 |
Sherlock Holmes Author investigates Charmouth Ghost |
"Conan Doyle and two companions - one of them, Mr. Podmore, a diehard opponent of spiritualism�visited a haunted house in Charmouth. The old house was being rented by an elderly woman, her grown son, and a married daughter. The family was plagued by poltergeist activity, mostly in the form of unexplained noises that was so severe they could barely tolerate living there. |
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1924 |
Landslide closes Road forever |
"As a result of the torrential rains, which accompanied the thunderstorms during the week, Dorset main coast road is being seriously endangered between Lyme Regis and Charmouth. A big landslide took place at the highest point, 400 feet. Above the sea level, where it runs through towering cliffs. A thousand tons of cliff are gradually moving towards the sea, and there is now a sheer drop of 150 feet, from the coast bank of the road. Danger flags are being flown, as the road itself may subside at any moment, but despite this a number of motorists are running over it." 30th may 1924 | |
1925 |
Red Deer found on Charmouth Beach |
"An interesting discovery was made in the little seaside village of Charmouth on Easter Sunday, when Mr. J.Hoare, whilst walking along the beach, found an antler among the rocks. Mr. Hoare informed Professor Lang, of the British Museum, who is staying at Charmouth, of his discovery. These gentlemen made excavations on Monday at low tide, and were rewarded by finding a hazel tree lying across the skull and antlers of a Red Deer. Hazel nuts were also discovered in a good state of preservation. Professor Lang estimated the age of the bones to be about 1,000 years. |
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1929 |
Charmouth Butchers fight ends in tragedy |
"An affray took place on Wednesday at Charmouth as the result of which a lad of 15 is in custody on a charge of unlawful wounding. It is stated that the lad, Stanley Newton, employed by Mr.F.Marsh, butcher of Charmouth, quarrelled with a fellow employee, George Rowland, slaughter man, in the absence of their master. Newton is alleged to have picked up a poleaxe, and in a mêlée Rowland was struck on the head, sustaining a fracture of the skull. He was taken to his home and attended by Dr. Chamberlain, but up to last evening has not recovered consciousness. Later in the day Newton was arrested and taken before a magistrate at Bridport being remanded on bail." 2nd august 1929 |
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1929 |
Lion escapes in Charmouth |
"Motorists proceeding along the main Axmister- Bridport Road, near Charmouth yesterday were startled to encounter a lion roaming along the roadside. Deeming better part of valour, those who could believe the evidence of their eyes stepped on the accelerator and gave the animal a wide berth. Pedestrians and beast, however, had not the advantage, and there was considerable consternation among the inhabitants of the district when the lion was finally shot. �Pasha�, the lion, which was the property of Chapman's Travelling Menagerie, was being conveyed along the road in its cage drawn by a tractor, when it secured its release owing to an accident to the van. It was valued at £250, and was a noted performer. After visiting Bridport, Chapman's London Olympia Zoo was moving on to Lyme Regis. On Fern Hill, Charmouth, a tractor, with a cage � car as trailer, had engine trouble, and moved backward against a tree. In the cage were three tigers, divided by a partition from Pasha, the lion, at the back. The collision with the tree damaged the cage enough for the lion to escape. Pasha sat and then lay at the roadside, apparently enjoying the change. The lion tamer had gone ahead to Lyme Regis, three miles away, and his return was requested urgently. |
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1932 | Harry Pryer`s saleof properties after his death in 1931. |
1933 |
Terrible Tragedy on Charmouth Beach |
A terrible tragedy which occurred at Charmouth, near Lyme Regis on Saturday evening has shocked the whole village. As a result of a pleasure trip in a small rowing boat on the River Char two lives were lost, whilst three other persons had marvellous escapes from drowning. |
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1939 |
Cat causes death of Charmouth Cyclist |
"A verdict of � Misadventure� was returned by the jury at the inquest at Lyme Regis on Saturday on Thomas William Larcombe, 42 a County Council roadman, residing at Corner View High Street Charmouth, who died at Lyme Regis Hospital on Friday following an accident. Larcombe was cycling through Charmouth at 6.30 am. Friday when he fell from his machine. He was taken to the surgery of Dr. Charmberlain for treatment and later conveyed to hospital where he died noon the same day. The west Dorset Coroner conducted the inquest, Charles Larcombe, brother, gave evidence of the identification. |
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1940 |
Cow killed by land mine |
"A land mine had gone off on the Stonebarrow Cliff; apparently by a cow stepping on to it and that the poor beast had its head blown off by the explosion. The cow was a black one belonging to Mr Peach, the Charmouth beach attendant." |
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1946 |
Rare Golden Ring provides link with Gentleman Killed in Charmouth Duel |
"On a dull April morning in 1792 a well cared for carriage drew up under the trees at Hunters Lodge on the borders of Devon and Dorset and the familiar and splendidly attired figure of the lord of the manor alighted. A short while after he was lying fatally wounded In the arms of his friends, following a duel with a man named Bond. The heart broken wife of James Warden perpetuated his memory in a magnificent golden ring mounted in crepe. This treasured link with the past has been handed down from generation to generation and is now in the possession of Mrs Wilkinson, of Foxley Dean, Charmouth, who loaned it at an exhibition on behalf of the Bishop's Appeal at Charmouth last week. |
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1958 |
1,000 acre Charmouth Estate goes up for auction. |
"The Catherstone Manor Estate, Charmouth comprising the Principle Residence with pleasure garden and 8 acres of woodland etc. Bufferlands Farm with 147 acres, numerous blocks of Accommodation land. Stable Block converted into three flats, stables and walled garden. Six cottages. Three fine building sites with vacant possession. Also two farms and valuable Coastal Land in all 969 acres. To be offered for sale by Auction in Lots (unless sold previously by private treaty) by Jackson Stops & Staff at the Bull Hotel, Bridport on Friday, November 21st, 1958 at 2.30 pm". |