Bishop Monkton Press 1860 - 1869

Yorkshire Gazette, 14 January 1860: RIPON HIGHWAY SPECIAL SESSIONS — These sessions, for the Liberty of Ripon, were held at the Court House, Ripon, on Friday last, before A. Bower, Esq., and John Greenwood, Esq., M.P. Mr. C. Kearsley, the complainant two in cases, is brick and tile- maker, residing at Littlethorpe, near Ripon; the defendants were R. D. Oxley, Esq., who resides at Thorpe Lodge, and Mr. Watson, a farmer at Littlethorpe. They were respectively summoned for not repairing portions of a certain highway leading from Littlethorpe to Bishop Monkton. The case came on for hearing on the of December last, when the defendants denied that the road was out of repair. Mr. Wm. Clarke, of Sharow, road-surveyor, was to inspect the road, and report to the bench. Mr. Clarke now stated that he had viewed the road on the 14th of December last, and considered that it was in good and passable order, so far Mr. Oxley's portion extended; and with respect to Mr. Watson's portion he considered that it was passable. He also found both the defendants had recently repaired the road. The case against Mr. Oxley was dismissed, and an application for costs refused, the magistrates considering that as he had repaired the road between the 2nd and 14th December, it was only fair that each party should pay their own costs. The case against Mr. Watson was heard at some length, and ultimately dismissed with costs. — Mr. Thos. Renton, of Ox Close, in the township of Whiidiffe-with Thorpe, farmer, was summoned by R. D. Oxley, Esq., for not repairing a portion of the highway leading from Littlethorpe to Knaresbro', which was stated to be a very bad condition. Mr. Renton said he did not think that he was liable to repair the road. He was allowed three months put it into proper repair, and, in default, ordered to pay penalty of £5.

Leeds Intelligencer, 14 April 1860: The annual meeting the members of the Bishop Monkton Mechanics' Institute was held at the hall in that village Monday last, on which occasion a tea and concert was given by the members to upwards of 200 persons, several of whom came from Ripon, Markington, Burton Leonard, and the neighbouring villages. The professional vocalists engaged for the occasion were Miss Newell, of Leeds; Messrs. Castle, Pearce, and Calvert, of the Ripon Cathedral choir; and Mr. P. Bent, of Leeds. They executed the several pieces assigned to them with admirable effect. Mr. W. F. Stephenson, of Ripon. was the conductor, and presided at the piano. On the platform were John Greenwood, Esq., M.P., patron of the institute (in the chair); Rev. R. Poole, Ripon, Rev. S. H. Atkins, Studley; and Mr. Butterfield, president of the institute. These gentlemen severally addressed the meeting during the evening on subjects connected with the proper conducting mechanics' institutes, and the speeches were attentively listened to and received great applause. Thanks were voted to the chairman, and to the vocalists, also to the ladles for their polite attention at the tea service, and the evening was spent in very pleasant manner.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 4 Aug. 1860: MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE — TESTIMONIAL TO PROFESSOR LONG — The above gentleman has recently been imparting valuable instruction and information to the young members of the Bishop Monkton Mechanics' Institution, near Ripon. As the Professor is about to leave this country for America, the Committee of the Institute met on Thursday, the 26th instant, and presented to him the following written testimonial of their high appreciation of his services. The ceremony took place in the Hall of the Institute. "Mechanics' Institution, Bishop- Monkton, July 26th 1860 To Professor Long. Sir, — The Committee of the Bishop-Monkton Mechanics' Institution beg to acknowledge the deep sense of gratitude which they feel towards you for the many kindnesses you have conferred upon them and their society. The able and eloquent lectures you have delivered on their behalf, and the useful advice you have given them, will ever be remembered with feelings of pleasure and admiration. We beg also to bear testimony to your eminent and unrivalled abilities in penmanship, and to the original way in which you teach this important branch of education. The recent classes you have conducted with so much ability bear ample proof of

the power and efficiency of your system, and we have every confidence in stating that, if generally adopted, it would confer a lasting boon upon individuals and society. (Signed), JOHN BUTTERFIELD, President.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 29 Sept. 1860: BISHOP MONKTON, NEAR RIPON — MR. F. SMITH has received instructions from Mr. Benjamin Chambers, who is leaving his farm, to SELL by AUCTION, upon the Premises Westwick Heads Farm, Bishop-Monkton aforesaid, on MONDAY, OCTOBER 1st, 1860, ALL the valuable FARMING STOCK, Estate, and Effects, consisting of 1 powerful bay Mare, three years old, stinted by Cheddington ; 1 young Donkey, I geld Cow, three years old, forward in condition ; 3 milk Cows in calf, 2 Heifers in calf, dates given at the time of sale; 1 yearling Heifer, 1 good-bred Bull, rising two years old; 3 spring calves, about 36 barn door Fowls, 1 strong built Dog-cart, 2 sets of Harness & Saddle and Bridle. 2 pairs plough Traces, 1 pair long Traces, cart Hames, Tank-cart, stone Roller, drag Harrow, I pair patent Harrows, iron Scuffler, 1 Plough, Hay-sweep, swathe Rake, Winnowing Machine, Turnip-chopper, Cow-chains, Gripes, Forks, Rakes, old Iron, &c. The estate of 23 Acres of Grass. Land up to the 6th of April, 1861. In lots to suit purchaser& Also, 3 lead Bowls, 1 butter Trough, large butter Basket, poultry Basket, a number of pigeon Pots, single-barrelled Gan, and sundry other Effects. Sale to commence at Two o'clock. Coltsgate-hlll, Ripon, Sept. 15th, 1860.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 12 Jan. 1861: BISHOP MONKTON — CHARITY FOR THE POOR — This place, like others, has been visited by severe frosts, deep snow, and intense cold, which has completely put a stop to all kinds of labour. Should the storm continue much longer, it is feared that many of the poor labourers of the village will suffer greatly thereby. Though the season has been so very inclement, the poor in this place have not yet been visited and supplied (like the poor of most of the surrounding places) with coals, clothing, &c., so much needed in such a severe season as the present, but they appear to be quite forgotten by the benevolent. Why so is not known? Unless it is that the labourers here are above want because they have good and regular employment. If such is the case, will not a long and severe storm like the present soon exhaust the little store they may be possessed of, and so reduce them to misery and want? If it is thought that the poor are undeserving, then the benevolent should remember that they, in common with all mankind, receive daily mercies from the hands of "Him who giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not" — Correspondent.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 23rd Feb. 1861: BISHOP MONKTON — BIG PIG —Very recently a pig was killed at Bishop Monkton, aged only eighteen months which weighed 46st. 7lbs. Besides its enormous weight, the animal was a very fine and healthy one. It was bred and fed by Mr. Benjamin Chambers, of the above village, stone mason, &c.

Yorkshire Gazette, 30 March 1861: BISHOP MONKTON MECHANIC’S SOIREE — On Monday evening last, the members of this flourishing institution held their fifth annual soiree in the hall of the institution, which was tastefully decorated for the occasion. The attendance was remarkably good. After tea, the chair was taken by Charles Husband, Esq., Mayor of Ripon, who stated that he admired and respected Mechanics' Institutions, as through them the sons of toil were enabled to improve their minds and intellects, by which means the industry, prosperity, and intelligence of our great and glorious country would be upheld and increased, for it was from the multitude that we as a nation must rise or fall. It was therefore the duty of all Englishmen to assist in the moral and intellectual improvement of the masses of the people, which was the object of this and kindred institutions. Mr. Butterfield, vice president of the institute, gave an outline of the rise and progress of the Institute Society, and urged upon his hearers, male and female, the necessity of self-improvement. Mr. Harrison recommended that an addition of Dickens's Household Words and Charles Knight's works

2 added to the library. He classed the formation of mechanics' institutions amongst the greatest blessings which could be enjoyed by the working class and the mass of the people. Mr. Councillor Burton adverted to the subject of classes, which had been of great service at Ripon. Ho knew men who were now filling high offices of trust (who were not only great men but good men) who had received the whole of their education the classroom of the Ripon Institute. Votes of thanks were accorded to the Mayor, Mr. Butterfield, and the ladies, all of which were suitably acknowledged. Mr. Mrs. Heath, Miss Carrodus, and Messrs. Sugden. Clapham, and Robinson delighted the audience with their vocal powers, and Mr. Midgley presided with great ability at the piano.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 23 November 1861: BISHOP MONKTON — METHODIST NEW CONNECTION — On Tuesday, the 19th inst., the friends of the Methodist New Connexion. at Bishop Monkton, held a public tea meeting in the Mechanics' Hall. The tables were well furnished, and a numerous company sat down to partake of the excellent provision. The attendance was, no doubt, considerably increased by the kind liberality of Mr. Poppleton, of Bishop Monkton, who generously directed thirty tickets to be distributed at his expense, among the aged poor of the neighbourhood. After tea, the meeting was adjourned to the Chapel, where addresses were delivered by Mr. W. Day, who ably occupied the chair, Messrs. W. McLay, J. Pogson, and W. Calvert, and the Rev J. Wright. It being fifty years since the chapel was erected, the congregation, led by an efficient choir, with considerable effect the " Jubilee Hymn," and the speakers called upon the congregation to put forth more vigorous efforts for the spiritual improvement of the inhabitants of the locality. The addresses were listened to with deep interest, and at a late hour the friends separated both pleased and profited. At the close of the meeting the chairman stated that a series of special religious services will be held next week for the purpose of promoting a revival of religion in the neighbourhood.

Morning Chronicle, 9 Dec. 1861: COURT OF QUEEN'S BENCH, SITTINGS AT NISI PRIUS at Westminster, before the Lord Chief Justice COCKBURN and a Special Jury — BOTTERILL V. BATTY This was an action to recover the. sum of £250, the price of a chestnut hunter. The defendant had paid £50 into court and pleaded never indebted as to the residue. Mr. Knowles, Q.C., and Mr. Field, were counsel for the plaintiff; Mr. Sergeant Pigott and Mr. Udall, for the Defendant

The plaintiff in this action is Mr. Richard Botterill, of Garton, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, and the defendant is Mr. John Batty, of BISHOP MONKTON, Ripon, The plaintiff purchased the horse in November, 1860, of Mr. Richard Barker, of Malton, for £75. At the Leeds Show in this year the horse won the second prize, and at the Duffield Cattle Show, which took place on the 26h July, the day of the sale to the defendant, the horse took three prizes-one, as a four year old; second, as a hunter, and the third, as being the best horse on the ground, one of the competitors being Mr. Holmes, a veterinary surgeon, whose horse took the second prize. The horse was sold to the defendant for £2.50, and a day or two after, the 8th August, it was delivered to the defendant at Bishop Monkton. A few days after, the defendant sold it on to Mr. Chinnock of Reading, for £260, who sold it to Mr. Collins, a London horse dealer, for £270. The horse came back to the defendant on the ground of its unsoundness, and he claimed a right to it return him to the plaintiff, or to reduce the value to the money paid into court. The question was whether the horse was naturally sound or not. The case for the plaintiff was that at the time of the sale the horse showed no symptoms of unsoundness, and great stress was laid upon the horse's winning three prizes at Driffield and having a veterinary surgeon's horse as a competitor, the owner of which was likely to closely criticise the horse, and, if possible, discover something wrong with him.

Professor Spooner, Mr. Bowman, Mr. Holmes, and other veterinary surgeons were called for the plaintiff. The defence was that the horse was unsound or suffering from hereditary disease the time of

3 the sale at Driffield on the 26th of July last. Mr. Mover, Mr. South, Mr. Varnel, Mr. Cox, Mr. Greenway, Mr. Chinnock, Mr. Brewster, and other witnesses declared the horse was a "whistler," had splints inside each hind leg, enlargement of the hocks of both hind legs, commonly called spavin, and also a curb on the off hock when they examined him, though Mr. Varnel stated that the horse was not now a " whistler."

It was contended that the horse had suffered from disease for some months previous to his sale on the 26th of July.

Mr. William Rockes, of Exeter, an extensive horse dealer, and other witnesses considered the horse only worth is from £60 to £50 if spavined, though the plaintiff and his witnesses considered it would be worth from £80 to £100. The case occupied nearly two days.

The jury, after being looked up about two hours, sent a note to the learned judge, stating there was no chance of their agreeing to a verdict. A consultation then took place between the learned counsel and their clients with reference to a suggestion from his lordship, for the settlement of the case, but, like the jury, "they were unable to agree." His lordship said, perhaps he had better discharge the jury, and then the parties might agree. It was a case very likely for a jury to disagree.

The jury were sent for, and the foreman said they were ten to two, and were not likely to agree, and an attempt for a jury of the ten was taken.

The defendant consented, but the plaintiff would not. The Lord Chief Justice, as the jury were not likely to agree, discharged them; and advised the parties to settle the matter without the expenses of another trial. This was the third time the jury had been discharged when they were ten to two, during these sittings.

The jury were then discharged.

Yorkshire Gazette, 5 April 1862: LANDED INVESTMENTS AT BISHOP MONKTON, NEAR RIPON. FOR SALE BY AUCTION, By Mr. WILLIAM MASTERMAN, At the House of Mr. Benjamin Chambers, the Star Inn, in Bishop Monkton, near the City of Ripon, on FRIDAY, the 2nd of May, 1862, at THREE o'clock in the Afternoon, unless previously disposed of by private treaty of which due Notice will be given, and subject to such Conditions as will be produced and read over at the time of Sale.

FIVE Closes or Parcels of very Valuable LAND, situate near to the Village of Bishop Monkton, and now in the occupation of Mr. George Heath, as Tenant, in the following, or such other Lots as may be agreed upon at the time of Sale.

LOT 1. A Close of Arable LAND containing 4 Acres, 1 Rood, Perches or thereabouts, situate on the East side of and adjoining to the High Road leading from Ripon to Knaresborough, at a short distance from the Church at Bishop Monkton.

LOT 2. A Close of Arable LAND containing 4 Acres, 2 Roods, 13 Perches or thereabouts, lying on the East side of and adjoining Lot 1.

LOT 3. Close of Arable LAND containing 4 Acres Roods or thereabouts, lying on the East side of and adjoining Lot 2.

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LOT 4. Another Close of Arable LAND containing 8 Acres, 3 Roods, 20 Perches or thereabouts, lying on the East side of and adjoining Lot 3.

LOT 5. Close of Grass LAND called Ings Close, with a small Willow Garth therein, situated in the Ings of Bishop Monkton, and containing Acres and Rood or thereabouts.

The whole of the Arable LAND is of very superior quality and first-rate condition, and is highly deserving of the attention of Capitalists. The Estate is Copyhold of Inheritance of the Manor of Ripon, and is free from the payment of great Tithes and Land Tax. Mr. Henry Ward, of Skeuf House, near Bishop Monkton, will show the property, and further Particulars may be obtained of him, or of Mr. THOMAS YEATES, of Langthorpe, and a Plan of the different Lots can be seen on application at the Offices of Mr. SAMUEL WISE, Ripon, March, 1862. Solicitor, Ripon.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 4 June 1862: COURT HOUSE, LIBERTY OF RIPON, JUNE 6TH. — Charles White, of Bishop- Monkton, labourer, appeared to answer to a summons charging him with indecently assaulting a young and good-looking female, called Mary Gill, on the evening of the 31st ult. near a farm house in the immediate vicinity of the said village of Bishop-Monkton. Complainant gave her evidence in a vehement manner, insisting upon "her honour, Charles White, what you state a falsehood." This was in reply to certain " posers " put by the defendant. Charles with his rough visage and his "cock-eye," looked knowingly down on our reporter as he was taking notes, as much as to say, "Stop a bit, sir, let my witnesses be heard, and then you'll see," And so both he and the Court did; for, from the evidence of a groom, a late fellow servant of the complainant's, it appeared that her conduct at sundry times had been anything but modest and proper. Case dismissed, complainant to pay the costa, amounting to 6s.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 6 Sept. 1862: THE GRAND GALA OF THE RIPON HORTICULTURAL AND FLORAL SOCIETY — The Gala, under the management of the above Committee of the above Society (of which the Right Hon. the Earl de Grey and Ripon is the President, and Charles Oxley, Esq., J.P., and John Greewood, Esq., M.P., the Vice Presidents), took place on Tuesday and Wednesday last. [...] The following is a list of the prizes, [...] AMATEURS — CUT FLOWERS — Eight dahlias: 3rd, Mr. Butterfield, Bishop Monkton [...] Four hollyhocks in spikes: 2nd, Mr. Butterfield, Bishop Monkton.

Leeds Mercury, 23 Sept. 1862: RIPON COURT HOUSE — COW STEALING — At the Court-house, Ripon, yesterday, a young man, named George Crabtree, a grocer's assistant, was remanded until Friday next, on a charge of cow stealing. The following appear to be the facts of the case: — The prisoner was at the Crown Inn, in Bishop Monkton, on the afternoon of Tuesday, the 15th inst. He stated- that he was a cattle dealer, and expected some beasts by train, which he had to meet at Nidd Bridge Station, and was going with them to Madham Fair. He went away and returned with a fat cow, and offered her for sale to Mr. Benson, the landlord. He asked £11; ultimately the price was settled at £10, but not liking the appearance of the soi-disant cattle dealer, Mr. Benson deferred payment until next day, when it was arranged they should meet at Masham. On Wednesday morning they met at Mr. Wood's, innkeeper, Masham, Mr. Benson being accompanied by a friend. After they had partaken of breakfast, which had been ordered by Crabtree, payment for the beast was demanded, but the purchaser, still being suspicious, declined to pay unless Mr. Wood, or any other respectable person, would say that he (Crabtree) had become honestly possessed of the animal. Mr. Wood

5 was called to speak to his respectability, but all that gentleman could say of Crabtree was that he had known him some time previously at Ripon, but could not speak to anything further. A meeting was then arranged for four o'clock in the afternoon, when Mr. Benson was to have his suspicions dissipated. At the time stated, however, the requisite proof was still wanting, and an arrangement was made that Crabtree should go to Bishop Monkton on Friday with full proof of his rightful ownership of the cow.

On Friday afternoon he went to Bishop Monkton, accompanied by a person named Ward, a goldsmith at Ripon, who signed a paper stating the cow to be "right"; an whilst the seller, the purchaser, and the rightful owner (Mr. Batty, of Monkton Main), out of whose field the cow had been stolen, were discussing her merits, Mr. Kane, of the West Riding constabulary, entered the house and took Crabtree into custody on the charge of stealing the animal. Ward was also apprehended the same night, charged with conspiring to defraud Mr. Benson of £10, but was admitted to bail on the following morning. Crabtree, it is stated, is the son of a respectable farmer, at Ripponden, near Halifax, and was for some time assistant to a grocer in Ripon. He left his situation about two years ago, and at that time was considered a steady respectable young man. He had lately been "fast" in his habits. He was about to be united to a respectable young woman residing at Ripon, and it is rumoured the marriage was to have been consummated on Saturday morning.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 4 Oct: RIPON COURT-HOUSE — THE COW STEALNG CASE — James Crabtree was brought up on remand from the previous Monday, charged with having stolen a cow out of a field near Wormald Green railway station, on the North- Eastern line of railway, on Tuesday, the 16th ult. The animal was the property of Mr. Richard Batty, of Monkton Main. The evidence adduced against the prisoner was in substance the same as the version given in last Saturday's Chronicle.

The prisoner, who appeared in good spirits, made the following statement: — "On Tuesday morning, the 16th ult. I was going along the Harrogate road, between nine and ten o clock. I met a man a little beyond Quarry-moor; he was standing on the road at first when I saw him, he asked me if he had not seen me at Ripon. I said possibly he might. He then asked me if 1 knew any butchers in or near to Ripon, as he had fifteen beasts coming from Liverpool. Part of them were sold, and he wished to sell the others. If I could sell one for him, he said he would allow me all above 9 guineas for my trouble. I went round by the toll-bar and came by Bishop Monkton towards Ripon. I called upon Mr. Hullah, butcher, but he was from home. I went to the Crown Inn, and asked Mrs. Benson, the landlady, if there was another butcher. She said there was one named Bake. I went to see him, and he was in the harvest field. After being in conversation some time, he said he was going to Knaresbro' the next day for a beast. I asked him what weight he bought them at. He said forty stones. I had been told by the man I met in the morning that they would weigh from 28 to 84 stones. I told him I would let him see one that night. I then turned towards Monkton bar. It was about five o'clock. I stayed there till about a quarter to seven. I waited to see the seven o'clock train in from Leeds. I left the station about half-put seven, and went towards Ripley, and met the man that I seen in the morning with a cow near the railway station. He said the other cattle were behind. He had one with him. He came with me to Monkton bar, and then he left me. I told him I had seen a man likely to buy a cow at Bishop Monkton. He said he would meet me at Monkton at the latter part of the week; but there was no special time appointed. I have not seen him since. I went to Monkton on Friday morning, but the man was not there. That is all I have to say."

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The prisoner having signed this statement, Mr. Wardle, superintendent of the Morley division of the West Riding constabulary, applied to the Bench to have the committed to take his trial at York assizes, instead of at the General Quarter Sessions of the Peace for the Liberty of Ripon, the prisoner having on the 1st ult. stolen a cow from a field at Barkisland, near Halifax (the property of Mr. Denton), which he sold to Mr. Hoyle, a butcher, at Halifax, on the following day. The prisoner was then formally committed to take his trial at the ensuing gaol delivery at York Castle, and was conveyed to Halifax during the afternoon. The charge against Ward was withdrawn, as there did not appear to be a case against him, no money having been paid.

THE EXAMINATION AT HALIFAX On the 27th ult., at the West Riding Police Court, Halifax, Crabtree was brought up on the charge of stealing a heifer, the property of Mr. Edward Denton, farmer, Ripponden. On the morning of the 2nd, ult., the cow was missed from a field at Barkisland, where it was left the night before. Subsequently it was ascert that the prisoner had put the beast up at a public-house at Halifax, where he sold it to a butcher, named George Hoyle, for £9. Crabtree then left the neighbourhood, and nothing was heard of him till the notice appeared in the I Leeds Mercury about a fortnight ago, that he had been brought up on a similar charge at Ripon. He was brought from that city to Halifax by Superintendent I Wardle, of the Riding constabulary. At Halifax, after the butcher had identified him as the man from whom he had bought the heifer, the bench committed the prisoner for trial at the assizes.

Leeds Mercury, 18 Nov. 1862: BISHOP MONKTON AND THE LANCASHIRE Dis- TRESS. — The Rev. R. Poole, incumbent of Bishop Monkton, and sub-dean of Ripon Cathedral, met a few of the inhabitants of Bishop Monkton, in the Mechanics' Hall, last week, when a liberal monthly subscription was commenced.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 27 Dec. 1862: LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT, 1858.- NOTICE OF MEETING — We do hereby give Notice that there will be a Public Meeting of the Owners of Property and Ratepayers of the Township of BISHOP MONKTON, in the Parish of Ripon, in the West Riding of the County of York, in the Mechanics' Hall, on WEDNESDAY, the 31st of DECEMBER 1862 at Seven o'clock in the evening, in pursuance of a requisition, duly signed, for the purpose of considering a resolution for the adoption of the Local Government Act of 1858 in the said Township of Bishop-Monkton, in the Parish of Riipon, and West Riding of the County of York, and also, if adopted, to determine the number of members that shall constitute the said Local Board. (Signed) THOMAS WALL, STEPHEN FOSTER, Overseers.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 3 Jan. 1863: FIRE AT BISHOP MONKTON PAPER MILL. — On Wednesday night last, between 7 and 8 o'clock, a fire was discovered in the Paper Mill at Bishop Monkton, near Ripon, which had apparently broken out in a new drying room erected a very short time ago. The alarm was raised, and Mr. Walls, one of the principal farmers resident in the village, mounted a horse and galloped to Ripon to order the fire engines. No time was lost, and horses were sent to the Engine house instanter from the Unicorn Hotel. Here delay arose, which we scarcely could have believed would have taken place in a civilized country. The person who had the custody of the Engine attempted to stop the Unicorn horses from being put to. We are informed that as West, the busman, yoked them on one side, the Engine-keeper unyoked them on the other. But shortly the indignation of the crowd, assembled on the spot, broke forth, he was pushed aside, the horses were yoked, and

7 away went the engine, which would certainly have reached the scene of action some twenty minutes earlier had not the interference we have described taken place. The fire had now got firm hold; but, owing to the praiseworthy and extraordinary exertions of the whole population of the village, it was at last got under, and a great deal of property saved. All was safe by the time the clock struck half-past 10. Next week we will give a more particular detail of the extent of the fire, and the amount of damage done. Mr. Walls, who came for the engine, informs us that the loss, which will be sustained by Mr. Butterfield, the proprietor of the mill, is not near so great as was at first imagined. He is, unfortunately, uninsured. The greatest praise is due to Mr Walls and to the Unicorn officials who had charge of the horses ; and too much cannot be said for the truly heroic conduct of the Bishop-Monkton people, who worked with a promptness and an energy truly surprising — many of them exposing themselves to great danger.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 17 Jan. 1863: THE FIRE AT BISHOP-MONKTON PAPER MILL — TO THE EDITOR. — Sir, The report received by you respecting the delay of the are engine caused by the one having the charge of it, is one of the most disgraceful and scandalous falsehoods ever invented. Had your informant stated twenty seconds instead of twenty minutes, he would have been nearer the mark. The pushing aside was equally as false, not a hand was laid on. The real facts respecting it were follows: — Someone called upon the party having charge of the engine stating that it was required at the Monkton Paper Mill, and left. In consequence horses were then immediately ordered him in charge of it, of Mr. Mountain, and every effort used to get the engine off as soon as possible — first having secured two men to take charge of the same. All went to the engine house, when, on arriving there, we found two sets of post horses, ready to put to at once. The Unicorn were backing to each side of the pole. Mr. Mountain's, being close alongside, were ordered to be put to, and Collinson’s taken away. This order did not meet Bus’s view. In consequence, he, caused the delay, and not the person who was in charge of the engine. The farmer was much to blame in not waiting to see the engine, and leaving the management to the party in charge of it.

However, there has been an official inquiry by the Mayor and Corporation since; and who have exonerated the party in charge of the engine, from any blame. Now, for the of the horses being ordered of Mr. Mountain. A short time ago Collinson's horses were ordered to a fire short of two miles from Ripon. We started at 5.30 am.; where, after working, sweating, and wet through for hours, we had to wait three hours in that state, and walk back with farm- horses, attached with chains &c., as best as we could. And for this great feat a charge of ten shillings was made, for a pair of horses conveying the engine less than two miles, one way only. This caused an Inquiry to be made of Mr. Mountain, who stated that he would have charged something lees than half that. This was the sole cause of horses being ordered of him. Truth and justice requires that each uncivilised propagator of falsehood should be publicly exposed. I am, Sir, ONE HAVING CHARGE.

(As regards "one of the meet disgraceful and scandalous falsehoods ever invented," a dozen people informed our reporter that there was a delay of twenty minutes, or more, in getting the Engine oft We refer all curious on the point to Mr. Wall, of Bishop-Monkton, a highly respectable farmer).

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 31 January 1863: THE LATE FIRE AT THE BISHOP- MONKTON PAPER TO THE EDITOR. Sir, I am surprised at the assurance of "ONE HAVING CHARGE” Own Ceases." His impudence astounds me. The honest truth, published

8 in the account you gave of the late fire at the Bishop-Monkton Paper-Mills — especially in describing the delay which occurred in getting the engine off from Ripon, seems to have turned the "One having Charge” quite rabid. He, therefore, attempts to throw the accusation by publishing the clustering, senseless letter, which appeared your columns of the 17th inst. Nothing but a kind-hearted desire to give everyone a fair chance could have induced you to allot space for that letter.

Upwards of one hundred people witnessed the delay; and I should think fifty might be found who would swear to that delay attending twenty minutes or more. When facts clearly show that an accused party had been in the wrong (whether by mistake, or wilfully, or otherwise), it is astonishing how eagerly that person will catch at straws to save his character; and run his head, like an angry tup, against every one bold enough to tell him the unvarnished truth. So is clearly with “One having Charge" in spite of all his bluster. In the blindness of his rage, he can't be civil. To wit, “Mr. Mountain” and “Collinson”. Is not the one entitled to be “mistered" well as the other? And what does he mean by saying "the farmer was much to blame in not waiting to see the engine, and leaving the management to the party in charge of it. “The Farmer” had come on horseback at a breakneck pace from Bishop Monkton. It is said he was not nine minutes in “doing” the four miles. He rushed to the house of the place in which the fire engine was locked up. He then hurried to Mister Collinson and ordered out the horses. The “Farmer” was the accredited agent of the occupier of the burning paper mill; and who had greater right than he to order the post-horses for the engine? In such cases neither the whim, the spite nor the interest of any man should be allowed to interfere with the despatch of an engine intended to stay, as much as it could, the destruction of property. "Am I” — “I”, — Jonathan ‘Ung of Markington, at whose name “One having Charge” will turn pale and tremble — "Am I right, or any other man?” But, to return to my charge against “One having Charge”. He says, in that exceedingly grammatical epistle of his, “Now for the cause of the horses being ordered of Mr. Mountain. A short time go Collinson’s horses were ordered to a fire, short of two miles from Ripon; we started at 5.30 am, where after working, sweating, and wet through for five hours, we had to wait three hours in that state, and walk back with farm- horses attached with chains, &c. as best we could. And for this great feat a charge of ten shillings for a pair of hones conveying the fire engine two miles, on way only. This caused an inquiry to be made of Mr. Mountain, who stated that he would have charged something less than one-half. This was the sole cause of the being ordered of him. Truth and justice requires that such uncivilised propagators of falsehood should be publicly exposed.

Well “uncivilised Man having Charge”, what is there to grumble at? If it is a fair question, what has been charged by the men “having charge" for the help they rendered at this late Bishop-Monkton fire? It was not the “ten shillings, one way only” that stuck in the crop of “One having Charge”. The "working, sweating, and getting wet through for hours” might have something to do with it; was there another cause at the bottom, which "Man having Charge" can guess if he chooses. There has been a good deal of grumbling amongst those who witnessed the delay in getting off the engine at the Corporation exonerating “One having Charge”. "One having charge" But has the Corporation exonerated him? Let “One having Charge” get a copy of the minute In the Corporation books, and give that to the Ripon public for their satisfaction. If it then appears that he has been exonerated, justice to the public demands that there should be a fresh and more searching inquiry instituted at once. Yours, &c., JONATHAN ‘UNG O’ MARKINGTON

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Leeds Mercury, 12 February 1863: QUARTERLY MEETING OF THE RIPON TOWN COUNCIL — [...] A letter from Mr. Greenwood, M.P., was read, enclosing a cheque for £3 7s., for the use of the fire engine at the late fire at Bishop Monkton. It had been the custom on the occasion of a fire to give the keeper of the fire engine £1, as a reward for his services, but it was at this meeting unanimously agreed that, in consequence of the unpleasantness caused by Mr. Daniel by his delaying the starting of the engine when required, at the fire at Bishop Monkton Paper Mills, the usual reward of ;£1 should be withheld from him in this instance.

Leeds Mercury, 7 Aug. 1863: THE ROYAL VISIT TO YORKSHIRE — DEPARTURE OF THE PRINCE AND PRINCESS FOR SCOTLAND. The Prince and Princess of Wales yesterday bade adieu to Yorkshire after a brief visit which cannot fall to have impressed them with many pleasing and grateful recollections. Wherever their Royal Highnesses have been, whether amidst the bustling activity of large and enterprising commercial communities, such as Halifax and Leeds, or in the quiet calm of an ancient cathedral city like Ripon, they have been welcomed with au ovation which in its warmth of loyalty [...] The enthusiasm of the citizens, and their anxiety again to catch a glimpse of their Royal Highnesses, was as intense on their departure to the station as on their arrival on Wednesday. The Market-place was even more crowded, owing to its being market-day, and as the carriages which conveyed the Prince and Princess rolled along, the vociferous cheers of the multitude, the gay arrangement of the banners and triumphal arches, and the brilliant display of beauty in the windows along the route, gave quite a triumphal effect to the journey. The aid of the lyrical muse, too, had been invoked to chronicle the glories of the day in a song, from which one verse may be reproduced as certainly a curious specimen of composition

" See how they flock to Ripon town From Burton Leonard and miles around, Where joy and pleasure may be found- God bless the Prince and his lady. From Bishop Monkton, too, they take, Stainley, Tanfield, Well, and Snape, Thirsk Knaresbro' Poll, and Ripley Kate- The Prince and his lovely lady. From Boroughbridge they haste along- Wath, Pronton Sall, and Bedale Tom, All the way from Richmond Bet and Tom To see the Prince and his lady." In the railway station a fashionable assembly had gathered to witness the departure. The taste and elegance with which the building was ornamented elicited general commendation, and it is a simple act of justice to Mr. Peacock, the station-master, by whom the decoration was effected, under the direction of Mr. Christison and Mr. Donaldson, to say that the success of his exertions was highly appreciated. Mr. Ald. Leeman, deputy-chairman of the North-Eastern Railway Company, and Mr. Pulleine and Mr. Williamson, two of the directors, were in attendance to receive the Prince and Princess, and we also observed the Bishop of Ripon, the Dean of Ripon, the Rev. Dr. Atlay, &c. The Royal train (which had been taken to York on Wednesday night) was under the charge of Mr. Christison, Mr. Fletcher, the locomotive superintendent, being the driver of the engine. Shortly after half-past two, their Royal Highnesses, accompanied by the Earl and Countess de Grey, General Knollys, Major Teesdale, and the Hon. Mrs. Coke (lady-in- waiting), arrived at the station, from Studley

10

[...],Then the train glided from the station, the spectators calling for cheers for the Prince and the Princess, and for the Queen, which were heartily responded to, and to which the Princess smiled and her Royal husband graciously bowed in acknowledgement.[...].

Yorkshire Gazette, 27 Aug. 1863: WEIGHTS AND MEASURES. To the Editor of the Yorkshire Gazette. Sin, —By inserting the following article on the popular question of the French metric system weights and measures in your valuable paper, it will much oblige Yours most obediently, WM. HARKER. Bishop Monkton, August 19, 1863.

“In 1853, on the motion of W. Brown, Esq., a select committee was appointed to take into consideration, and to report to the House, on the practicability and advantages or otherwise of a decimal system of coinage. On the 1st of August this committee reported in favour of the one pound, unit, with decimal parts. [...] Until the principles and data of these comparative illustrations are refuted, the people may firmly rely on the fact that the standards or principal units of the English decimal system admit neater expressions in fewer figures and lower numbers than the metric or any other system. That they are better adapted than the French standards to save time, labour, and expense in the school-room, the counting-house, the bank, in the shop, the market, and in any art or science that can be named. Are we to give up our golden standard for 9 1/2d., because four farthings make a penny? Will Englishmen remain carelessly passive on this popular question, after being faithfully called to action by their representatives in Parliament.”

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 27 Dec. 1863: BISHOP MONKTON MECHANICS’ INSTITUTE — On Monday last, a lecture on electricity was given by Mr. Spink, master of the Ripon Cathedral National School, to the members of the Bishop Monkton Mechanics Institute, in the large room of the building, which was crowded in every part. The lecturer was introduced by Mr. J. Butterfield, vice-president of the institute, and showed, by the combination of different metallic substances, how electricity was generated, and in applying these substances produced before the meeting sparks of fire to prove this point. Mr. Spink then showed by a working model the action of the telegraph, and how, with the needle or pointer on the face of the dial, messages were conveyed and carried to any distance in a few seconds of time, where the wires on the line of rail are continuous and in working order. On the motion of the Rev. J. Allott, seconded by Mr. Waddington, the thanks of the meeting were given to Mr. Spink for hie excellent and interesting lecture on this scientific subject, which was carried unanimously, and followed with long applause.

Leeds Intelligencer, 16 Jan.1864: FATAL ACCIDENTS. Yesterday (Friday) afternoon week a boy named Ellas Stirling, aged 13, whilst skating the navigation at Ripon, fell into the water through the breaking of the ice, and was drowned. James Gill, servant to Mr. T. Walls farmer, Bishop Monkton, lost his life a few days ago. The deceased and George West, another servant, were "foddering" their master's cattle, when the deceased took a broomstick and struck a young mare three four times over the hocks. The animal, which is rather spirited, struck out and hit the deceased over the heart. He did not speak afterwards, and died in about twenty minutes.

York Herald, 12 March 1864: ELCOT, by Venison, dam by Defence, late the Property of Jno. Batty, Esq., of Bishop Monkton, winner of the Second Prize at the Royal Agricultural Society last year at Worcester, and the First Prize at the Great Yorkshire Show when held at Hull. At the request of several Gentlemen in the Neighbourhood of Ripon, Easingwold, Harrogate,

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&c., Elcot will make his home at Wormald Green, and travel on his old ground in that District this Season, commencing the last week in March, and will Serve Mares at Three Guineas each, and 5s. to the Groom.

Yorkshire Gazette, 10 Dec. 1864: COURT HOUSE, RIPON — ROBBERY — At the Court- House, Ripon, on Wednesday, John Scanlon, of Halifax, marine store dealer, and his wife, were brought before Mr. S. P. Ascough (Mayor) and Mr. Ald. Yorke, charged with having, on the 1st instant, stolen a purse and 17s. in silver from the person of Ann Ascough, wife of Joseph Ascough, of Bishop Monkton, near Ripon. Mrs. Ascough went to a shoe stall in Ripon market on the day in question for the purpose of making a purchase. The female prisoner came to the stall, but soon afterwards left. Mrs. Ascough completed her purchase, but on feeling for her purse it was gone. Information was given to the police, and Mr. Burneston, who had been looking after the prisoners as suspicious characters, shortly afterwards apprehended them at the King William the Fourth. On searching the male prisoner, a particular half-crown, well known to Mrs. Ascough, was found upon him, the purse was discovered in the Coach and Horses public-house, where prisoners had been shortly after the robbery. Four purses were subsequently found. The prisoners had also in their possession about £6 10s. They were committed to the sessions for trial.

Leeds Mercury, 10 Dec. 1864: SALE BY AUCTION — PARK GREEN, BISHOP MONKTON, near Ripon. By Mr. MASTERMAN, at the Unicorn Inn, Ripon, on Tuesday, the Thirteenth day of December, 1864 at three o'clock in the afternoon unless previously disposed of by private contract, of which due notice will be given, sale subject to such conditions as will be then and there produced,

ALL that MESSUAGE, PARK GREEN VILLA, AL containing three sitting rooms, kitchen, scullery, dairy, &c., &c., and six bedrooms, a three stalled stable, barn, coach-house, piggeries, and other out-buildings and gardens thereunto belonging; also four closes of good grass land, and a plantation on the borders, containing altogether 13A. 1R. 4P., or the same more or less. The house and buildings, and 4A. 1R. 16P. of the land, are freehold, and the remainder of the land is copyhold of the Manor of Ripon.

These premises are pleasantly situated about three miles from the city of Ripen and forms a compact and desirable country residence. One-half of the purchase money may, if required, remain on security of the property John Scaife, of Bishop Monkton, will show the premises; and further particulars may be obtained on application at the office of Mssrs. STROTHER and SON, Solicitors, Killinghall, near Ripley.

York Herald, 22 April 1865: SOIREE OF MECHANICS INSTITUTE — The annual soiree in connection with the Bishop Monkton institute was held on Monday last, in the hall of the institution. After an excellent tea, at which about 250 persons sat down, Mr. J. Greenwood, M.P. for Ripon, presided, and after opening the proceedings by briefly expressing his warm attachment to the institution and his approval of educational societies in general, called upon Mr. Butterfield, who gave an account of the society's operations during the past year. The income was stated to be about £40, of which a small sum remained in hand to meet the current year's expenses. — The Rev. R. Poole, of Ripon, incumbent of Bishop Monkton, said the benefit of Mechanics Institutes were two-fold. First, their social influence in bringing into harmony all ages and ranks, and secondly, their intellectual advantages. They had in connection with the institute a reading room, open daily, supplied with newspapers and other

12 publications, a large and well assorted library containing books adapted to every rank in life, and during the winter session the usual course of lectures on popular subjects. Such opportunities of improvement are here offered to all their members, and by diligent and careful attention all may profit by the educational advantages placed within their reach by means of this institute. — The proceedings were diversified by the performance of a well selected programme of vocal music, which gave entire satisfaction, and reflected great credit upon the performers, who were Miss Winder, of Leeds, Master Simpson, and Messrs. Dudgeon, Castle, and Pearce, from the Ripon Cathedral and Trinity choirs. Mr. Rhodes, of the Ripon Cathedral choir, presided at the pianoforte.

Newcastle Journal, 12 June 1865: PRESENTATION TO THE REV. F.J. POOLE — On Saturday afternoon, a beautiful timepiece, of the value of thirty guineas, was presented the Rev. F. J. Poole, who has laboured as curate in the pariah of Ryton for the last four and half years, that gentleman being about to enter upon the duties of incumbent of Bishop-Monkton, near Ripon, Yorkshire. In making the presentation, Mr. Walker said that it was a gratifying event they were called together take part in; it was the presentation a timepiece to Mr. Poole, in token of their esteem and regard for him. Throughout life there was a mixture of happiness and somewhat of sorrow. They could not but feel great happiness at the promotion of their good friend, and there was not one amongst them but would regret parting with Mr. Poole. From what they had seen since he came amongst them, they were assured that where he might, Mr. Poole would gain the esteem and affection of everyone. [...].

York Herald, 30 Dec. 1865: CATTLE PLAGUE — Ripon — According to the return of Mr. Seeker, the inspector for the Liberty of Ripon, presented to the bench, the number of cattle which have died is as follows: —Mr. Tappin, Nunwick, 11; Mr. Gothorpe, Nunwick, 33; Mr. Watson, Skelton, 1; Mr. Walls, Bishop Monkton, 1; total, 46 out of 66 attacked.

Leeds Mercury, 10April 1866: BISHOP MONKTON MECHANIC’S INSTITUTE — The annual soiree in connection with the Bishop Monkton Mechanics' Institute took place on Friday evening, when addresses were delivered by Captain Greenwood, of Swarcliffe Hall, president of the Institution; the Rev. F. Poole, incumbent of Bishop Monkton; and Mr. Butterfield, secretary of the Institution. The Keighley Glee Society, assisted by Mrs. Heath, Miss Keighley, and Miss Whiteley, performed a well selected programme of vocal music. Mr. Midgley presided at the pianoforte. Great amusement was created by the reading of Pickwick's trial by Mr. Wm. Brigge.

Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 30 March 1867: RIPON DIOCESAN CHURCH BUILDING SOCIETY — Grants for the erection, purchase and improvement of parsonage houses: for the erection of a new parsonage at Bishop Monkton at a cost of £1,750, £200.

Yorkshire Gazette, 1 June 1867: SALE OF TRULY VALUABLE FREEHOLD PROPERTY. BISHOP MONKTON, Near Ripon, Boroughbridge, Knaresborough, and Ripley. MR. WM. BURNETT most respectfully announces to all parties who are anxious to make and secure a satisfactory Investment, that he will SELL BY PUBLIC AUCTION, on TUESDAY, June 18, 1867, at the Crown Inn, Bishop Monkton, at SIX o'Clock p.m., subject to such conditions as will be then produced,

The whole of that Valuable FREEHOLD PROPERTY, Tithe Free, and Land Tax Redeemed, lately belonging to Anthony Burnett, Deceased, comprising a Recently-Erected MESSUAGE

13 or DWELLING-HOUSE, all necessary Outpremises, Garden, and Three Allotments of Meadow or Pasture LAND, containing by recent measurement, Six Acres, or thereabouts, be the same more or less. The whole will be Sold in One Lot. The House, &c, are in good Repair, and with the Land are in a Ring Fence, abutting to the South on the Village Street; the Garden walled round, and well stocked with productive Wall and other Fruit Trees. The Land adjoins the House, is well Watered, and of really superior quality. It is purely Old Sward Land, of excellent herbage, and uncommonly productive. The Property, of which immediate Possession can be given, is situate about the centre of the village, and close upon a never- failing stream of pure water, which has its source from a spring a few score yards west of the village. Bishop Monkton is a healthy, retired, and improving village on the banks of the River Ure, 3 Miles South from the City of Ripon, 4 Miles West from Boroughbridge, 6 Miles North of Knaresborough, and 5 Miles North East from Ripley; about 1 3/4 Miles from Wormald Green Station, on the North-Eastern Railway, where trains can be taken to all parts—East, West, North, and South. On application. Mr. Thomas Bilton, Bishop Monkton, will show the Property; and for further particulars apply to Mr. CHRISTOPHER BURNETT, Parochial Officer, Whitby; to Mr. WILLIAM BURNETT, Auctioneer, Wetherby; or to Mr. THOMAS LUMLEY, Solicitor, Boston Spa, Tadcaster.

Loughborough Monitor, 17 Oct. 1867: INCENDIARY FIRE AT BISHOP MONKTON. On Saturday morning, about half past three o'clock, a wheat stack, the property of Mr. Wm. Annakin, of Bishop Monkton, about four miles distant from Ripon, was discovered to be on fire by his son, who immediately gave an alarm and conveyed the intelligence to Mr. Inspector Boshier, of the West Riding constabulary at Ripon. He at once obtained the assistance of the fire brigade, and proceeded to the scene of the conflagration with the city engine. A plentiful supply of water was obtained from the brook which flows through the village. And through the exertion of the inhabitants, combined with the tact displayed by the brigade, the fire was prevented from spreading beyond the stackgarth, in which it originated, and was got under about eight o'clock. The produce of about ten acres of wheat and four acres of oats were totally destroyed; and hay, the produce of about six acres, was partly destroyed. The loss is estimated at about £l00, and is not covered by insurance. In addition to his occupation of farmer, Mr. Annakin combines with it that of game watcher, and consequently has drawn upon himself a considerable degree of odium in the neighbourhood. His son, who made the discovery of the fire, had on Friday been fined £l and costs before the magistrates at Ripon for an assault in the discharge of his duties as game watcher.

Yorkshire Gazette, 9 Nov. 1867: FATAL ACCIDENT IN RIPON — On Thursday afternoon, about half-past four o'clock, Mr. John Kay, of Bishop Monkton, farmer, left the Royal Oak Inn, in Kirkgate, by the back way leading into Kirkgate, on a young horse. On approaching the street, the animal became restive and, on proceeding some few yards, it was met by carriage coming in a contrary direction. The animal reared up, and fell over on to his rider on the causeway on the opposite side of the street to Mr. Ald. Carter's shop, causing his death. Medical aid was promptly in attendance, but life was quite extinct. Mr. Kay was about forty- five years of age, and leaves a wife and four children.

Knaresborough Post, 11 July 1868: WESLEYAN MEADS, BISHOP MONKTON — The Wesleyan Meads in this village are very active. Within the last twelve months they have paid off a debt of above £40, which burdened the chapel trust. They have also repaired, and very neatly painted the interior and exterior of the chapel, and rendered the home of God most

14 comfortable. Toward the latter expenses, we see, from advertisement, that two collections will be made next Sunday, after minutes by Edward Brookes, Esq., of Huddersfield.

Knaresborough Post, 29 Aug. 1868: LANDSLIPS AT RIPON — On Monday evening, the 17th, the Rev. J. S. Tate delivered an entertaining lecture to members of the Ripon Scientific Society, “On Landslips, especially in the neighbourhood of Ripon". The Rev. J. R. Lunn presided. The Rev. Lecturer commenced by describing the causes of landslips, which may be classed under two general heads — the disturbance of strata caused by earthquakes; and the action of water, by which underlying strata being removed or softened the overlying strata are removed by the mere force of gravitation from their natural position. After dealing with the more notable landslips recorded in history, he turned to those in our own immediate neighbourhood. Upon these he said —

"The natural pits, which occur so abundantly in the neighbourhood of Ripon, have the character of subsidences rather than of landslips; and, however we may account for their shaft-like form, they are, I think, most certainly caused by the slow action of water removing some portions of the rock below, and thus from time to time causing the strata above to fall in. There are between 30 and 40 regularly formed pits. But there are indications of other subsidences which would make the number very much more. In form they are either perpendicular shafts, or more frequently crater-like hollow; the latter being occasioned by the gradual falling in of the sides, and of the over-lying drift. Several of these contain water, the greater number, however, are dry. They nearly all occur within a rectangular area of rather more than a square mile, and are never to be found more than half a mile from the river Ure. This would naturally lead us to suppose that subterranean streams connected with the river have been the agents by which the strata have been excavated, so as to cause these subsidences. In one of the pits there is water at the bottom at the depth of about 64ft 6in. The bottom of the pit consists of the fallen red-sandstone rock, so that the hollow into which the upper rocks fell must have been considerably below. Now the river lies about 80ft. below the upper level of the top of the pit; so that in this pit, which is one of the farthest from the river, we seem to be able to trace a close connection with the river. It was formed about June 1880. The one that fell in, near Ripon Parks, eight years ago (in the spring of 1860), is even more interesting, as the subsidence was noticed by the Rev. F. H. Dunwell, who has kindly furnished me with the following particulars. He was by the river side, watching some men who were fishing, when he heard a noise like thunder; and, looking round, he saw an area of earth and stones rising into the air, and falling back again. One of the men who was fishing went near, and found that a pit had been formed, in which was a quantity of water in a state of ebullition. It continued in the same disturbed state during the following day; then the sides began to fall in rapidly, and the water subsequently disappeared. I am indebted to Mr. Heslington, who measured the depth of the water in the pit, for the following particulars.”

"The pit is formed in the magnesian limestone, here thin-bedded and in small slabs but lying undisturbed, with a gentle dip eastwards of 5° or 6°. The sides of the pit on the north are perpendicular; on the south the sides, which are marly, have broken in and slope down to the bottom."

“It is worthy of notice that these pits seldom occur singly, but are generally in groups of two, three, or more. Besides the two I have mentioned several others have been formed in the memory of persons now living: one at Sharow, about 20 years ago, fell in during the night, and alarmed the inhabitants of a neighbouring house, who found in the morning little more

15 than the breadth of the road between them and this pit. About 40 years ago, some men were making a stack near the old Hall at Bishop Monkton, and had left it for a while; when they returned, the ground had given way beneath the stack, and it had disappeared. The men hastened to their master, exclaiming, "It’s gone; it's gone." The hole still remains, a receptacle for rubbish."

“On the Ordnance Survey map, one of the pits is marked salt pits. It is dry and crater-like. Perhaps some of the members of the society may be able to explain the origin of the name. The two formations in which the pits occur are the magnesian limestone, and the new red sandstone. But I think that the beds, in which the hollow is formed, into which the upper strata drop are always of magnesian limestone. It has, as we have seen, a general dip of 5°' eastward, and therefore on the east side of the river its upper surface, on which the red sandstone lies, is about level of the river. The sandstone lies unconformable to the limestone, dipping south.”

“It is easy to understand how great caves can be formed in the limestone; for these occur without exception in all limestone formations; and elsewhere, particularly about Markington, it is full of swallow holes, into which a large portion of the water of the stream would escape, if it were not banked out. These, however, seem to be very long and tortuous windings in the earth: and one is said to reach from Markington to Bishop Monkton, beneath the limestone hill at Wormald Green. It is more difficult, however, to understand how many caves should be formed, clustering together, and each approximating to a circular form; for such must be the case in order that the circular pits should be formed. When such a circular chamber has been forced in, and beneath the limestone, it is easy to see how readily it would fall in, it is composed of thin and small blocks.”

"I conceive, then, that the way in which these pits are formed is this. Subterranean passages exist from the bed of the river into the magnesian limestone, which is gradually dissolved away to as to form large round caverns. When the roof of these caverns becomes too weak to sustain the overlying strata, it gives way, and brings down into the cavern the rock which lies above; and as the cavern is necessarily full of water at the time, the water is driven up by the fallen rocks into the newly-formed shaft. Afterwards it gradually drains through the interstices of the fallen rubbish, until it stands at the level of the river. As the sides and gravel near fall in, they gradually convert the shaft into a crater-like hollow. I can only account for the lifting of the stones upwards, as observed by Mr. Dunwell, on the supposition that the first falling in of the rock, which produced the sound like thunder, compressed a certain amount of air, which finding vent, threw upwards a quantity of earth and stones.”

“But in accounting for these pits we must not forget that there exists in their neighbourhood a bed of sulphate of lime which may extend beneath the top beds of the magnesian limestone. This is curiously contorted and thrown into heaps, and if any one of these were removed by subterranean streams, it would form just. such a chamber as I have imagined to exist before the falling in of a pit. I have no evidence, however, to show that these gypsum beds do extend under the limestone."

At the conclusion, a vote of thanks was unanimously accorded to the lecturer.

Knaresborough Post, 18 Sept. 1868: BISHOP MONKTON — ANNUAL FAIR — At this annual fair for cattle and sheep the ere was a large show of the latter, which exceeded former

16 years; but for want of whiter meat buyers were very cautions in making purchases, and • downward tendency was submitted to.

Ripon and Richmond Chronicle, 16 January 1869: SCHOOL CONCERT — On Wednesday last a concert given by the National School Scholars, forming the choir of St. John’s Church, Bishop Monkton, assisted by friends from the neighbourhood, was held in the Mechanics' Institute, Bishop Monkton, when a well selected programme was effectively rendered. The concert opened with a glee by the company, and we may here remark that all the work which fell to the share of the scholars was well executed. The duets were charming, and the pianoforte duets in which Mr. Bates was joined, in the first part by Master Castle and in the second by Master Williams, earned well deserved applause. Both Mr. Genie and Mr. Wilkinson, as usual, elicited uproarious encores. The trio, "Memory," by the Castle Family seemed to please the audience, as well as many others, which it would be invidious to mention. The National Anthem ended the programme. Mr. Bate, organist of Ripon Cathedral, presided at the pianoforte during the evening.

FEARFUL CATASTROPHE IN THE H UNTING FIELD. SIR CHARLES SLINGSBY AND FIVE OTHERS DROWNED.

Leeds Mercury, 5 February 1869: A catastrophe-probably without parallel in the annals of the hunting-field - by which Sir Charles Slingsby, Bart., of Scriven Park, Knaresbro', and five others lost their lives, occurred yesterday, in the West Riding of Yorkshire. It is not often, happily, that serious accidents befall the followers of the hounds; and the gallant riders whose feats of horsemanship have formed the theme of many a stirring incident, seemed almost exempt from many of the calamities which their very daring appeared to court, But the charm has been rudely broken; and the sad story we have to-day to tell - a story as melancholy in its details as in its results - whilst it cannot fail to awaken general sympathy and regret, will come home with double force to all those who are eager disciples of this good old English sport.

The York and Ainsty foxhounds - one of the most favourite packs in the West Riding - met yesterday morning, about eleven o'clock, at Stainley House, half-way between Harrogate and Ripon. There was a good field, including Sir Chas. Slingsby, the popular master of the hounds; Viscount Downe, of Danby Lodge; Lord Lascelles, of Harewood; Sir Geo. Wombwell, of Newburgh Park; Captain Vyner, of Linton Spring; Mr. Clare Vyner, of Newby Hall; Mr. E. Lloyd, of Lingcroft, near York; Mr. E. Robinson, of York; Major Mussinden, Captain Molyneux, the Hon. Henry Molyneux, Capt. Key, of Fulford; Mr. White, and several of the officers of the 15th Hussars, stationed at York; Mr. Wood, of Bellwood; Mr. Wm. Ingleby, of Ripley Castle; and Mr. Darnborough, of Ripon. Wm. Ovis, the first whip, was in attendance, and the weather being fine, anticipations prevailed of good sport.

No fox was found until the party reached Monkton Wyn, but the game once started a capital run was had of about an hour's duration, in the direction of Copgrove and Newby Hall, the residence of Lady Mary Vyner. On approaching the Hall, Reynard crossed the river Ure, and the hounds followed. Several of the huntsmen attempted the ford, some distance up the stream, but Sir Charles Slingsby, and the majority of those who were close up, made for the ferry, which is almost directly opposite Newby Hall, and signalled for the

17 boat to be sent across. To any one of cool judgment, the attempt to gain the opposite bank would have seemed somewhat perilous. Swollen by the late rains, and to a great extent diverted from its natural channel, the river swept along with a strong deep current, at this point some fifty or sixty yards broad. Without a moment's hesitation, however, the master of the hounds sprang into the boat on its being piloted across by the Newby Hall gardener and his son; and this example was so largely followed that in a very short time some fifteen or sixteen gentlemen, with their horses, crowded into a vessel intended to accommodate only half that number. Those who entered the boat were Charles Slingsby, Ovis (the whip), Sir Geo. Wombwell, Captain Vyner, Mr. Clare Vyner, Mr. Lloyd, Mr. Robinson, Major Mussinden, Captain Molyneux, the Hon. Henry Molyneux, Captain Rey, Mr. White, and some more of the York officers whose names it has been found impossible to ascertain. Viscount Downe, Lord Lascelles, and several others, who were either unable to find room in the boat or had their doubts as to its safety, remained on the banks awaiting its return.

No warning voice cautioned the adventurous huntsmen when they started on what proved to some of them a fatal journey; indeed, their apparent luck in having gained the start of the others was looked on with many envious eyes. Any such feeling was, however, of short duration. Seizing the chain by which the flat-bottomed boat is propelled, Captain Vyner and his brother pushed off from the river side, and sent the vessel right into the stream. Ere one- third of the distance had been traversed Sir Charles Slingsby's horse became restive, and kicked the animal belonging to Sir George Wombwell. The latter - a high-mettled chestnut - returned the kick with interest, and something very like a panic amongst the animals took place. The boat was swayed first to one side and then to the other and finally it was fairly turned bottom upwards. The scene which then ensued can only be described as indescribable. For a moment the slimy bottom of the boat, rocked to and fro by the struggle of the imprisoned men and horses, was all that could be seen by the horror-stricken spectators on the bank; then, here and there in different parts of the stream, heads began to appear only to sink again amidst agonised cries, and hands and arms were flung up in mute despair. Horses were seen to battle with the current, striking out with all their energy, and, regardless - in their instinctive craving for life - of the injuries they inflicted on their masters, who, alas, were also swept by the current out of reach of those so anxious to afford relief.

In many cases, however, the prompt measures taken by the spectators were effectual. Those who could swim, cast their coats, and plunged to save their friends, whilst others, not so happily gifted, took less vigorous, though not less useful, steps. Lines, formed of whips, were tied together and thrown within reach of the drowning men, and several beams of wood which fortunately lay scattered about were quickly launched on the stream. Captain Vyner was one of the first to get his head out of water, and to save himself from the current by clinging to the upturned vessel. After a vigorous struggle he reached the top of the boat, and was able to assist first Sir George Wombwell and afterwards one of the York officers to the same vantage ground. Mr. White got on shore by clinging to the chain stretched across the ferry, whilst others were rescued by the means adopted for their safety from the banks. As may be readily imagined, the greatest confusion prevailed, and although our reporter has taken the greatest pains by personal conversations with many of those who witnessed the occurrence to obtain accurate information, he has found it almost impossible to make one account coincide with another. In a briefer space of time than it has taken to

18 describe the scene, all was over. And when the roll, was called, six of those who had embarked on the stream were found to have gone to their long account. Sir C. Slingsby, who but some half-hour before had gaily led the hunt, was the first to be missed. He had been seen floating helplessly down the stream, the back of his head and shoulders being alone above the water. Mr. Lloyd was the next blank. A good swimmer, he was seen to battle for dear life with the current; but unhappily he had made for the bank which was farthest away, and which he failed to reach. Mr. Robinson, Ovis, and the ferrymen were the others unaccounted for, and, as they had not been seen after the boat capsized, they must have been unable to escape from beneath. Several marvellous escapes are detailed besides those already mentioned, but it has been found difficult to authenticate them. Sir George Wombwell was almost insensible when Captain Vyner got him on to the boat; and he states that his exhaustion was so great that he cannot remember by what means he was saved. One of the officers was badly kicked by the horses whilst under water, and others sustained injuries of a similar character. The following is a list of the drowned.

1. Sir Charles Slingsby, Bart., of Scriven Park. 2. Mr. E. Lloyd, of Lingcroft, near York. 3. Mr. Edmund Robinson, of York. 4. Wm. Ovis (first whip). 5. James Warriner (gardener at Newby Hall). 6. Christopher Warriner (son of the above).

Up to a late hour last night only three of the bodies had been recovered. Sir Charles Slingsby's corpse was found about half-past four by Mr. Wood, of Bellwood, and Mr. Denison, of Ripon, some three hundred yards below where the accident happened, and close to a small waterfall. The bodies of Mr. Lloyd and Mr. Robinson were recovered soon afterwards near to the same spot. The watch of the last-named gentleman had stopped at ten minutes to two o'clock - thus indicating the hour of the occurrence. Only one horse managed to reach the shore. The bodies of most of the others have been found. Sir Charles Slingsby was riding one of the oldest and most favourite of his hunters - "Old Saltfish" - strange to say, this gallant steed was discovered lying near the master whom it had served so faithfully for some fifteen years. In the evening the bodies of Sir Charles, Mr. Robinson, and Mr. Lloyd were recovered and removed to Newby Hall, the seat of Lady Mary Vyner. It is needless to state that the intelligence of this melancholy catastrophe has cast a gloom over the whole district. Sir Charles Slingsby's amiable disposition and genial manners rendered him most deservedly popular throughout the whole of the Riding; whilst his liberality and hospitality endeared him to the hearts of all who shared in them. Mr. Robinson, who had the reputation of being one of the best riders in the county, is said to have resided at one time at Thorpe Green Hall, a place which be sold not long ago to Mr. H. S. Thompson, of Kirby Hall, whose estate it adjoins. Ovis has long been connected with the York and Ainsty hounds and was one of the most experienced whips in Yorkshire. Both the Warriners were married, and whilst one leaves nine children, the loss of the other is lamented by a wife and three children.

Newcastle Journal, 8 Feb. 1869: On arriving at the ferry at ten o’clock this morning, we found matters in about the same state as we had left them on the previous evening. Four boats, with relays of men at intervals of two hours, had been engaged in the melancholy

19 task of dragging throughout the entire night, without any result. The grounds of Newby and the banks of the river on both sides were again crowded with spectators, all seemingly able and willing to render assistance should their services required. We never witnessed such an orderly multitude; in fact, the stillness of death, as it were, seemed to pervade all. What words were spoken were in whispers, as they silently watched the slow progress of the boats, with their muffled oars on the placid stream, with the grapnels skimming the surface occasionally on their route. Whenever the drags became entangled, and had to be raised to discover the cause, the breathless anxiety of the crowd was but too apparent, and disappointment was depicted on the countenances of those in the boats as tree after tree and large quantities of brushwood were brought to the surface. Such was the state of affairs till nearly four o’clock, when a hunting-cap was fished up, supposed to belong to Mr Robinson. At six o’clock dragging was suspended till one o’clock on Monday morning, and the scene was soon desolate.

Immediately after the inquest on Friday evening, the body of Sir Charles Slingsby was removed to Scriven Park. The body of William Ovis, the huntsman, was conveyed to his residence in Scriven Park; and those of Messrs Robinson and Lloyd were conveyed to York in hearses from Ripon. The body of Christopher Warriner, the boatman, was removed to his house, situated in the grounds of Newby. We may add that Lady Mary Vyner has been seriously ill ever since the accident took place, but her two sons have recovered from the effects of the shock they received by their immersion in the river. Sir Geo. Wombwell is also better. When the body of the huntsman was found, his cap was on, with the whip tightly grasped in his right hand.

Newcastle Journal, 9 February 1869: It was a rather difficult matter to reach here this morning. We left Ripon in a conveyance at 8.15, but when we arrived at Copt Hewick, about one mile and half from the city, our progress was arrested. The severe gale which blew all yesterday, accompanied with a perfect deluge of rain, continued during the whole of last night, causing the Ure to overflow its banks in the vicinity of Copt Hewick, and the turnpike road to Newby and Boroughbridge was covered with water for about 300 yards. Our mission, however, was urgent, and our noble steed, with its light gig and lighter occupant, took the water, which reached up to its belly, but ultimately we reached terra firma with a quaking heart. We were glad to see Newby Hall at last; but what a change, even from yesterday — we could not trace the river, which had been converted into a sea extending for two or three miles up the valley. There were very few persons present this morning; but the police were on duty; and your correspondent was the only representative of the press in attendance at the inquest.

Newcastle Journal, 9 Feb. 1869: The lamentable death of Sir Charles Slingsby and five of his hunting companions, on Thursday last, has cast a gloom not only over the immediate vicinity of Newby Hall, but has created a sensation which may be said to be almost unparalleled in the annals of the hunting field. Foxhunting is an essentially English sport. Englishmen of all classes are imbued with the same spirit, and wherever the Briton finds a home there he establishes a hunt. It was in pursuit of this pastime that the woeful accident which has resulted in the death of six persons took place. The bodies of the men have now been all found; the various inquests have been held; and the two Warriners, father and son, were yesterday laid in their last home.

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Yorkshire Post and Leeds Intelligencer, 12 Feb, 1869: The last of the internments arising out of the lamentable hunting catastrophe the Newby Hall Ferry took place at Knaresborough yesterday afternoon. The remains of the ill-fated Master of the York and Ainsty Hunt. Chas. Slingsby, Bart., were consigned, in the presence of a sorrowing assemblage his neighbours, both rich and poor, and a large gathering of his friends, to the silence of the Slingsby mortuary chapel, which forms part of the Knaresborough Parish Church.

Knaresborough Post, 12 June 1869: WESLEYAN MISSIONS — ON MONDAY, JUNE 14TH, 1869, a sermon will be preached in the WESLEYAN CHAPEL, BISHOP MONKTON, at half past two o'clock in the afternoon, by the REV. T. T. SHORT, of Bramley. — A PUBLIC TEA will be provided in the Mechanics' Hall. Tea on the table at half-past 4. Tickets ls. each. — In the evening, the Annual MEETING will be held in the Chapel, when Addressee will be delivered the Revd. T. T. Short, A. H. M'Tier, J. Tesseman Mr. Exell, and other friends. Chair to be taken at half-past Six. A Collection will be made at the close of the sermon, and during the meeting.

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