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NORTH-EAST LANCASHIRE
SOUTH-EAST LANCASHIRE
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Lancashire 1868.


T H E H IS TO RY
OF THE
COUNTY PALATIN E AND DUCHY
L. A N C A S T E R
BY THE LATE EDWARD BAINES, ESQ.
THE BIOGRAPH/CAZ DEPARTMENT BY THE ZATE W. A. WHA 77ON, ESA. 34.4%, S-
@ 32cm, 3&cbigºt, amt improben (Etition
EDITED BY JOHN HARLAND, F.S.A.
Editor of the Lancashire Lieutenancy, etc.; Ballads and Songs of Lancashire, etc.; Lancashire Lyrics;
Mamecestre; Collectanea relating to Manchester and Neighbourhood; Manchester Court Leet Records; House and Farm
Accounts of the Shuttleworths of Gawthorpe ; Salley Abbey; Charters and Muniments of Clitheroe;
Autobiography of William Stout of Lancaster, etc.; Joint Editor of a History of
Preston Guild ; of Lancashire Folk-Lore, etc. etc.
VO/L UAMA: /
L O N D O N
GEORGE ROUT LED GE AND SONS, THE BROADWAY
M A N C H EST E R L. C. G ENT
I 86.8
Printed by R. CLARK, AEdinburgh.
:*-
i
eS}i
TO
THE NATIVES AND RESIDENTS
OF
THE COUNTY PALATINE OF LAN CASTER,
THIS WORK, DEVOTED TO ITS HISTORY,
IS RESPECTFULLY DEDICATED
BY
THE EDITOR.
FEBRUARY I 868.
INTRODUCTORY NOTICE TO VOLUME I.
—º-
YººHº original intention of the Publishers of this edition of Baines's History of Lan-
2.3
* tºº tº e g tº * - * tº º g
...tº; º/ā cashire was simply to reprint it, in one volume, with careful revision and correction
e. 34 £ of its many errors. After a portion of this volume had gone to press, however, it
º: gº was determined to extend it to two volumes, and to bring down the chief events
* in the history of important parishes and towns to the present time. In fulfilment
of a general wish to have Baines's History of Lancashire in a new edition, and no other, it
was necessary to adhere to the form in which he had moulded his history, under Hundreds and
Parishes. Since he wrote, however, the old boundaries and landmarks of parishes, and to some
extent even of counties, have been greatly disturbed; indeed, in many cases, utterly overthrown.
The county of Lancaster, as popularly known, and as represented in all the maps, is a different tract
of country, with different boundaries, from what is termed “The Registration or Union County of
Lancaster.” The latter includes many townships and parts of townships really in Cheshire and
Yorkshire, and its population exceeds that of the geographical county of Lancaster by nearly
36,000 persons. The change is still greater and more perplexing in the case of parishes. Lancashire,
till within a few years ago, was a county of large parishes, of which Whalley in one hundred (105,249
statute acres), and Manchester in another (34,193 acres), are striking examples. But the large
parishes have been divided and subdivided from time to time; new and smaller parishes have been
carved out of them ; and these, under different legislative enactments, are by no means uniform in
character, ecclesiastically or parochially. Some are parishes and the cures rectories; some are “new
parishes” and perpetual curacies; some “district parishes” and perpetual curacies; others again,
“separate parishes.” There are “Peel parishes” (under the Act 6 and 7 Vict, cap. 37), and there
are “Blandford parishes” (under the Act 19 and 20 Vict. cap. 104). There are “ parochial
chapelries,” “district chapelries,” consolidated chapelries,” “parliamentary ecclesiastical districts,”
and “conventional districts.” But the changes do not end with those ecclesiastically made. The
new poor-law has introduced a novel series of divisions of the land—into poor-law unions, super-
intendent-registrars' districts, sub-districts, etc. These are very rarely indeed conterminous with the
old parishes. The unions comprise variously from two to twenty townships, and these are grouped
without regard to their former parishes, and on the borders often extend to townships in the next
county. The superintendent-registrars' districts are generally, but not invariably, conterminous with
the unions. These districts, and their sub-districts, are now the areas of jurisdiction within which
many important national and local acts and regulations are to be executed—such as taking the
decennial census of the population; registering births, marriages, and deaths; vaccinating infants;
collecting rates, and administering relief to the poor by boards of guardians. All these changes tend
greatly to lessen the practical value of the old divisions called “counties” and “parishes,” as they
have existed in England from remote times, and to set up entirely new territorial divisions and


vi - introductorg £20tice,
districts. But these are by no means completed; the changes are still progressing; what is the
parish of to-day, may be a total different ecclesiastical and parochial district to-morrow. Under
these circumstances, seeing that the present is in reality a stage of transition, it was thought every
way the best course to adhere to the plan of Mr. Baines, and to retain the old divisions of counties,
hundreds, and parishes; only notifying where changes in parishes had been made, and enumerating
the townships within each poor-law union. To have done otherwise would have rendered it necessary
to discard the whole of the local histories as written by Mr. Baines, and to have published under his
name a totally different work. But the future historian of Lancashire will have to do something of
this kind. What is now transitional will then have become settled, and the whole of the land of
Lancashire will have become divided permanently into parishes and poor-law districts. Some legis-
lative measures may be found necessary to consolidate into one genus or class the many present
varieties of parishes and ecclesiastical districts; and then the functions of the county historian will
be more clearly defined, and more easily and correctly fulfilled, than is possible at this time.
The Publishers having decided to issue the first volume at once, whilst the second is passing
through the press, it may be necessary here to explain in what the present edition deviates from
that of 1836. Its very inaccurate family pedigrees have been altogether omitted, as they could not
be satisfactorily corrected without sacrificing much time—certainly some years—if even the utmost
time, care, and pains could ever have rendered some of them trustworthy. Then, for the old, greatly-
abbreviated Latin deeds and documents of the old edition, have been substituted, in English, either
full translations, or the substance of the document, as its intrinsic importance appeared to require.
Throughout the work, wherever a regnal year is stated, as “2 Hen. III,” care has been taken to add
within parentheses the common year or A.D., as “ (1217–18);” in this, as in most instances, the regnal
year, which, with Henry III., began in October, running into two ordinary years. More correct ver-
sions, in English, are given of the Domesday Survey, of the grants and charters to the various
boroughs and towns, and of all documents of interest. The creation of the new diocese of Manchester
and the various changes it involves—(parts of Lancashire being now in three different dioceses, Chester,
Manchester, and Carlisle, and the archdeaconries and deaneries being recast accordingly)—all these have
had due attention. The changes in the old, and the creation of new courts of law, of record, and others,
have been noted. In the history of the parliamentary representation of Lancashire, all the dates of the
parliaments from the reign of Edward I. have been supplied; and all the elections, since the Reform
Act of 1832, for the county, its divisions, and its boroughs, have been chronicled, with the numbers of
the electors in 1832 and 1865, the names of all the candidates, their political character, and the number
of votes recorded for them respectively. The changes effected in the county and the boroughs of
Lancashire by the “Representation of the People Act” of 1867 are noted, and all the important
sections of the Act itself printed. The geology of the county has been wholly re-written; the periods
of the meteorological observations of Dr. Dalton and others are greatly extended. All matters of
less general interest, though desirable for reference, have been put in smaller type. The footnotes
embody many references to other works containing fuller information on the various subjects named.
The first parish history in the work is that of Manchester, and this will be found to comprise much
information not possible to be given in the old edition. The history of the barons of Manchester—the
Greslets, La Warres, Wests, and Mosleys—has been written anew ; the old charters of Manchester and
Salford correctly translated; much new matter embodied as to the old Parish and Collegiate Church,
its rural deans, wardens, and fellows, deans and canons, etc.; a description of the present Cathedral
and its restorations (1845-1867) and new tower; the various churches and other places of worship in
the city and its vicinity; the Free Grammar School, and the new scheme for its regulation (1866);
Chetham's Hospital, School, and Library, a list of the governors, and a sketch of the chief contents
Introductory potite. - - vii
of the library; the various institutions of Manchester, religious and benevolent, literary, scientific,
and educational—all find a brief notice. The annals of the town are given in years, from 1700 to 1867,
including the rebellions of 1715 and 1745; various riots, and the “Peterloo.” affair of 1819; the
population and bills of mortality at various periods; the sanitary condition of the city; the Art
Treasures Exhibition in 1857; the seven years' agitation for the repeal of the corn-laws; the
municipal government and institutions of Manchester; boroughreeves and mayors of Manchester and
Salford; courts and gaols, and other public buildings; town-halls, libraries, parks, poor-law unions;
the chapelries in the old parish; biographies of Manchester men, including Dr. Dalton and Eaton
Hodgkinson; and a necrology, or death-list, of notable Manchester residents in the present century.
In somewhat similar form, but with fewer details, are given the local histories of the old
parishes of Ashton-under-Lyne, Prestwich-cum-Oldham, Middleton, Rochdale, Bury, Radcliffe, Dean,
Bolton, Eccles, and Flixton, thus completing the local history of every parish within the Hundred
of Salford. Copious Addenda close the volume, including the Population of every parish and town-
ship in Lancashire, at every decennial census from 1801 to 1861, with the ages, conditions, and
occupations of the people in 1861; the County Registration on the 1st January 1868; the Valua-
tions of Property for assessing the County Rate in 1854 and 1866; the Property and Income Tax
Returns for every parish or populous place in Lancashire for the year ending 5th April 1860, the
latest return of this kind; a list of the County Magistrates in March 1868, and many other interesting
statistics and statements relating to the County generally, or to the Hundred of Salford, and
especially to the City of Manchester. By a comparison it will be seen that (with the exception of
123 pages of the history of the cotton manufacture, which is reserved for the Appendix at the end
of volume ii.) this volume includes the whole of the first and second volumes, and 170 pages of
the third volume of the old edition; though it embodies, in addition, the history of the last
thirty years.
To make this volume as useful as possible, both a Table of Contents and an Index to the
chief subjects have been included. A coloured Map of the whole county, reduced from the Ordnance
Survey, and on a scale of four miles to the inch, has been carefully engraved, and forms the frontis-
piece to the volume. This map clearly shows the boundaries of the six Hundreds, and also the
parliamentary divisions of the county as prescribed by the Act of 1867. It also delineates the
border portions of the counties of Westmorland and York, and those of North Cheshire as far south
as Chester.
The Editor is sensible that many inaccuracies may have crept in, and many omissions may
have been made, in the haste of carrying this volume through the press. If any such be pointed out
to him, he will be glad to rectify them in the second volume.
J. H.
February 1868.
CONTENTS OF VOLUME I.
•–4– -
CHAPTER I.
Earliest Notices of Lancashire—The Roman Conquest and Rule in Britain-B.C. 55 to A.D. 448
CHAPTER II.
The Saxon Period—Invasions, Conquests, and Short Rule of the Danes—Termination of the Saxon and Danish
Dynasties of England—The Norman Conquest—A.D. 448 to 1066
CHAPTER III.
William the Conqueror's Suppression of Revolts in the North—His Extension of the Feudal System and Seizure
of Church Lands and Property—The Domesday Survey and Book—The Honor of Lancaster—Its first
Norman Baron, Roger de Poictou–Its Grant by the Crown to Randle third Earl of Chester—A.D. 1066 to
circó 1120
CHAPTER IV.
Territory of South Lancashire (between Ribble and Mersey), successively the Possession of the Earls of Chester, of
the Ferrers Earls of Derby, and of Edmund Crouchback, first Earl of Lancaster—His son Thomas, second
Earl, executed, whose brother Henry, third Earl, was succeeded by his son Henry, fourth Earl, created first
Duke of Lancaster, and called “the good Tuke”—John of Gaunt, second Duke—Creation of the Duchy and
its Privileges—The County Palatine, its Chancery Court, etc.—A.D. 1128 to 1399
CHAPTER. W.
Character of Henry Plantagenet, Earl of Derby and Duke of Hereford–His Quarrel with the Duke of Norfolk, and
Banishment—Elevated to the Dignity of Duke of Lancaster on the Death of his Father, John of Gaunt—
Returns to England—Expels Richard II. from the Throne—Elevation of the noble House of Lancaster to
the Royal Dignity—Possessions of the Duchy of Lancaster separated from the Crown Possessions—Establish-
ment of the Duchy Court—Abolition of the Duchy Court of Star Chamber—History of the Duchy continued—
Its Courts, Chancellors, Officers, etc.—Ducatus Lancastriae, from the Harleian MSS.—A.D. 1380 to 1860
CHAPTER WI.
Creation of the County Palatine—Sheriffs from the Earliest Records—Courts of the County Palatine—Ecclesi-
astical and other Courts—Assizes—Public Records of the County Palatine.—A.D. 1087 to 1836
CHAPTER VII.
The Earldom of Lancaster possessed by King John—Privileges to the Honor of Lancaster in Magna Charta—
Forest-Laws and Assize of the Forest at Lancaster—Grant of Land between Mersey and Ribble—Large Trains
on Lancashire for Men and Money for the Wars—Wars of the Barons—Edward II. the Prisoner of Thomas Earl
of Lancaster—Analysis of Landed Possessions in the County from Testa de Wevill.—A.D. 1164 to 1327
b
PAGE
21
3I.
43
56
X (Content:3.
CHAPTER VIII.
PAGE
Representative History of the County of Lancaster—First Members for the County of Lancaster, and for its Boroughs
–First Parliamentary Return and first Parliamentary Writ of Summons for Lancashire extant—Members
returned for the County of Lancaster in the Reigns of Edward I. to Edward IV—Returns lost from 17
Edward IV. to 33 Henry VIII.-County Members from 1 Edward VI. to 30 Victoria—The ancient Lancashire
Boroughs, consisting of Lancaster, Preston, Liverpool, and Wigan, resume the Elective Franchise 1 Edward
WI–Newton and Clitheroe added to the Boroughs of Lancashire—Representation of Lancashire during the
Commonwealth—List of Knights of the Shire for the County of Lancaster, from the Restoration to the Present
Time—Alterations made in the Representation of the County and Boroughs of Lancashire by the Reform
Act of 1832.-A.D. 1295 to 1867 e & º º & tº 4. . . . 88
CHAIPTER IX.
Lancashire History in the Reign of Edward III—Pestilence—Creation of the First Duke of Lancaster—Heavy
Imposts on the People of the Duchy–Death of the First Duke of Lancaster—His Will and Possessions—
Administration of the First Duke, from the Rolls of the Duchy—Renewal of the Dukedom in the person of
John of Gaunt—The Franchise of jura regalia confirmed, and extended in favour of the Duke of Lancaster—
Continuance of the Royal Bounty to the House of Lancaster—A.D. 1327 to 1379 º º . 104
CHAPTER X.
Power of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster—The Duke's Expedition to Spain—Larger Measures in Lancashire
than any other part of the Kingdom—Accession of the House of Lancaster to the Throne—Grant of the Isle
of Man, first to Henry, Earl of Northumberland, and afterwards to Sir John Stanley, Knight—Annals of the
Duchy—Charters of the Duchy—Will of Henry IV.-Henry W. ascends the Throne—Union of the County
of Hereford to the Duchy of Lancaster—Battle of Agincourt—Death of Henry W.-His bequest of the Duchy
of Lancaster——A.D. 1377 to 1422 • e ‘e º * & º º . I 17
CHAPTER XI.
Scarcity of Records for History during the Wars of the Roses—Marriage of Henry VI.-Claims of the Rival Houses
of York and Lancaster to the Throne—Wars of the Roses—Henry VI. dethroned by Edward IV.-Henry
seeks an Asylum in Lancashire—Taken by Sir John Talbot—Sir John's Grant for this service—Catastrophe
of the Lancastrian Family—Edward W. murdered in the Tower—Coronation of Richard III.-His Warrant
for seizing a Rebel's Land in Lancashire—The King's Jealousy towards the Duke of Richmond, Step-son
of Lord Stanley, extends to his Lordship—Attainder of Lady Stanley, Countess of Richmond—Landing of
the Duke of Richmond in England—Battle of Bosworth Field—Confiscation of Lancashire Estates—Union
of the Houses of York and Lancaster—Sweating Sickness—Lambert Simnell and Perkin Warbeck, Pretenders
to the Throne—Fatal Consequences of the Civil Wars to the Duke of York's Family (note)—Sir William
Stanley accused of High Treason: condemned and executed—Henry VII's Royal Progress in Lancashire—
Execution of Edward, Earl of Warwick, the last Male of the Plantagenet Line—Death of Henry VII-A.D.
1472 to 1509 . b e s wº g o * e a º . 132
CHAPTER XII.
The Sixteenth Century—Henry VIII. ascends the Throne—Invasion of England by the Scots—Battle of Flodden
Field—The King's Letter of Thanks to Sir Edward Stanley, etc.—Lords-Lieutenant first appointed—The
Reformation—Religious Persecution—Visitation of the Monasteries—Dissolution of the Lesser Monasteries—
Insurrections produced by the Dissolution of the Monasteries—The Pilgrimage of Grace: Dispersion of the
Rebel Army; They re-assemble, etc.; Finally dispersed—Renewed Rebellion in the North—Execution of the
Abbot of Whalley and Others—Dissolution of the Larger Monasteries—First Publication of the Bible in
English—Excommunication of the King—List of Lancashire Monasteries—Their Revenues administered by
the Duchy–Aggregate Value of the Dissolved Monasteries—Bishopric of Chester, etc., erected—List of
Chantries in Lancashire—Decayed Towns in Lancashire—Privilege of Sanctuary—The King's Death-A.D.
1509 to 1547 . º g e º e . . . º 149
©.
(Tomtºmtg. xi
CHAPTER XIII.
PAGE
Lancashire in the Reign of Edward VI. ; in the Reign of Queen Mary—Lancashire Martyrs: John Rogers, John
Bradford, George Marsh—Muster of Soldiers in the County of Lancaster in Mary's Reign—Lancashire in the
Reign of Elizabeth—General Muster of Soldiers in Lancashire in 1559–Ecclesiastical Commission, consisting
of the Earl of Derby, the Bishop of Chester, and others—State of Lancashire on the Appointment of the
Commission—Catholic Recusants—Mary Queen of Scots seeks an Asylum in England : placed in Confine-
ment—Puritan Recusants—Rebellion in the North to re-establish the Catholic Religion : Suppressed—
Meetings of the Lieutenancy—Original Letter of Edward, Earl of Derby, to the Queen—Letter of the Earl of
Huntingdon to Secretary Cecil, casting Suspicion on the Loyalty of the Earl of Derby; proved to be ill-
founded—Part taken by Lancashire Gentlemen to liberate Mary Queen of Scots—Comparative Military
Strength of the Kingdom—Muster of Soldiers in Lancashire in 1574—Declaration of the Ancient Tenth and
Fifteenth within the County of Lancaster—The Chaderton MSS. relating to the Affairs of the County of
Lancaster—Original Papers relating to the Lancashire Recusants—Lancashire Contribution of Oxen to Queen
Elizabeth's Table—MS. of the Lancashire Lieutenancy—Lancashire Loyal Association against Mary Queen
of Scots and her Abettors—Trial and Execution of Mary Queen of Scots—The Spanish Armada : Letter
from the Queen to the Earl of Derby thereon ; Preparations in Lancashire to Resist ; Destruction of-
Thanksgiving for National Deliverance in Lancashire—Memorable and Fatal Feud—Atrocious Abduction—
Levies of Troops in Lancashire for Ireland—Suppression of the Rebellion there—Death of Queen Elizabeth
—Loyal Address of Lancashire Gentry to her Successor James I. on his Accession to the Throne,—A.D. 1547
to 1603 º tº gº º tº & tº e * e º . 160
CHAPTER XIV.
Ancient Manners and Customs of the County—Dress—Buildings—Food—Coaches—Sports and Pastimes—The
Arts—The Laws—King James's first Progress—Lancashire Knights—The Plague—The Gunpowder Plot—
Letter to Lord Monteagle— Cecil's Account of the Discovery—Fate of the Conspirators—Lancashire
Baronets—Lancashire Witches—Dr. Dee's Petition—Seer Edward Kelly, the Necromancer—History of
Lancashire Witchcraft—Duchess of Gloucester—The Stanley Family—Satanic Possession—Case of Seven
Demoniacs in Mr. Starkie's Family at Cleworth ; dispossessed—The Conjuror hanged—King James's
Daemonologie—Witches of Pendle Forest—Samlesbury Witches—Second Batch of Pendle Forest Witches—
Examination of the Lancashire Witches before the King in Council—Deposition of Ann Johnson, one of the
reputed Witches—Case of a Lancashire Witch in Worcestershire—Richard Dugdale, the Lancashire
Demoniac : his Possession ; Dispossession—Witchcraft exploded—Progress of King James through Lanca-
shire—The Book of Sports—Further Honours conferred on Lancashire Men—Letter from King James to Sir
Bichard Hoghton—Letter from the King's Council to the Earl of Derby, Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire and
Cheshire.—A.D. 1603 to 1624 . ſe tº . * g & t tº . 190
CHAPTER XV.
}
Contests between Charles I. and his Parliament—Lancashire Members—Lords-Lieutenant—Breaking out of the
Civil Wars in Lancashire—County Meeting—Summons of Lord Strange to Manchester—Musters made by him
in Lancashire—Impeachment of Lord Strange—Meeting of Loyalists at Preston—Blowing-up of Hoghton
Tower–Campaign of 1643—Act of Sequestration—Summons by the Duke of Newcastle to Manchester :
Answer—Military Operations in Lonsdale Hundred—Assembly of Divines—Campaign of 1644–Siege of
Lathom House ; of Bolton ; of Liverpool—Deplorable Condition of the People of Lancashire—Seal and
Patronage of the Duchy–Military Possession of the County by the Parliamentary Forces—Catalogue of the
Lords, Knights, and Gentlemen of Lancashire who compounded for their Estates in 1646—Classical
Presbyteries of Lancashire—Campaign of 1648—Battle of Preston—Execution of King Charles I.-
Campaign of 1651—Battle of Wigan Lane—Fatal Consequences of the Battle of Worcester—The Earl of
Derby made Prisoner–Tried and executed—Duchy and County Palatine Courts—Summons by Oliver
Cromwell of a Lancashire Member—Sir George Booth's Failure to raise the Royal Standard—General
Monk's Success—Restoration of Charles II-A.D. 1625 to 1660 . e e º * . 2II
xii
Contentā,
CHAPTER XVI.
Restoration of Monarchy and Episcopacy—Corporation and Test Acts—Act of Uniformity—Ejected Ministers in
Lancashire—Five-mile Act—Sufferings of the Nonconformists—Abolition of the Feudal System—Militia
Quota for Lancashire—Lancashire Plot—Conspiracy of the Earl of Clarendon and others—Rebellion of
1715; of 1745—Lancashire Gentry—Lancashire Visitations—Geographical Situation of the County—
Climate—Meteorology—Soil and Agriculture—Forests—Geology—Lancashire Rivers—Catalogue of the
Bishops of Chester, from the Institution of the Bishopric, 33 Henry VIII, to the Present Time—Rate
imposed upon the Clergy to provide Horses and Arms for the State in 1608—Ecclesiastical Courts, their
Jurisdiction, Fees, and Revenues—Religious Communities, Catholics, Protestant Dissenters, Methodists, etc.
—A.D. 1660 to 1745 -
CHAPTER XVII.
LANCASHIRE HUNDREDs: at the time of the Conquest—Mr. Whitaker on the Old Hundreds—Newton and Warrington
Hundreds merged in the West Derby Hundred–Hundreds synonymous with Wapentakes—Institution of
Hundreds: made subservient to the Security of the Persons and Property of the Subject by King Alfred—
System of Government, Ecclesiastical and Civil—Statute of Winton—Enumeration of the Present Hundreds
of Lancashire—Order of their Arrangement in this History—“Representation of the People Act 1867”—
Area and Population of County Divisions and Boroughs—The New Lancashire Boroughs—Changes made
by the Act in the Parliamentary Representation of Lancashire.
HUND RED OF SAT, FORD.
SALFORD HUNDRED–Contrast between this Hundred at the time of the Domesday Survey and at the Present
Time—Situation and Dimensions of this Hundred—Parishes and Townships of Salford Hundred arranged
in Divisions
BARISH OF MAN CHIESTER.
PARISH OF MANCHESTER.—Early History of Manchester—The Name : how derived—Roman Period—Roman
Remains: early Discovery of ; late and more ample Discoveries—Saxon Period—Manchester at the Norman
Conquest—Ancient Charter granted to Salford–Barony and Barons of Manchester—-Early Charters and
Documents—The Greslets: Manchester Charter of 1301–The De la Warres—The Wests—The Mosleys—
—Armorial Bearings of Manchester, and of the Successive Lords of the Manor—A.D. 79 to 1846
Early Ecclesiastical History of Manchester—The Churches of St. Mary and St. Michael—Deanery of Manchester—
Rectory—Collegiate Foundation—Erection of the Collegiate Church—Will of Thomas del Booth—Manchester
constituted a Place of Sanctuary—Privilege of Asylum abolished—Collegiate Foundation dissolved : restored
—Succession of Wardens—The Cathedral; its Restorations ; New Tower—Other Churches—Chapels—
Burial-Grounds—Places of Worship, and Numbers of Sittings—Education of the Poor—Manchester Free
Grammar-School : its Foundation ; Augmentation ; Soke Mills—Revenues and Expenditure of the School—
Exhibitions—Hulme's Exhibitions—The Scheme of 1867—Present Feoffees of the School—High Masters—
Chetham's Hospital and Library—Governors—Boroughreeve's (now the Mayor's) Charities—Other Charities
—Salford Charities—Charities of the Out-townships of the Parish—Modern Charities of Manchester—Modern
Societies and Institutions
Early Inquisition relating to Manchester—Punishments—Origin of Manchester Manufactures—Visit of Henry VII.
to Manchester—Early Waterworks—Leland's Description of Manchester in 1538—Manchester at the Refor-
mation—Memoir of John Bradford the Martyr—Ecclesiastical Commission—Dean Nowell—The Bishop of
Chester's Residence fixed in Manchester—Aldport Lodge, etc.—Sufferings of the Catholic Recusants—Relaxa-
tions of the Rigours against them—Treatment of Alehouse-keepers and Bakers—Parks in Salford Hundred—
Description of Manchester by Camden in Queen Elizabeth's Reign—Privilege of choosing the Boroughreeve—
Sale of the Manor of Manchester—Removal of the Bishop—Population—State of Society—First Printing-
press in Manchester—Panic—Renewed Ecclesiastical Commission—The Astrologers and Dr. Dee—Eruption
PAGE
259
265
267
279
(Tomtentº, xiii
e PAGE
of Hough Moss—Inflammatory Handbill—Breaking out of the Civil Wars—Siege of Manchester—Summons
by the Earl of Newcastle—Manchester's Answer—League and Covenant—The Plague in Manchester—Presby-
terical Classis—Representation of Manchester during the Commonwealth—Rigorous Treatment of the Presby-
terian Ministers—Union between the Presbyterians and the Independents—Restoration of Charles II. cele-
brated at Manchester—Special Assize at Manchester–Treatment of the Nonconformists—Dr. Kuerden's
Description of Manchester in the Reign of Charles II—Manners of the People of Manchester at the end of
the Seventeenth Century—Unsuccessful Attempt to impose a Duty on the Sale of Merchandise at Manchester.
—A.D. 1359 to 1693 , 3 & © © tº wº * tº * 307
HISTORICAL ANNALS OF MANCHESTER FROM 1700 TO 1867–Including the Rebellions of 1715 and 1745—The
Manchester (Rebel) Regiment and Sufferers—Canals–Corn and other Riots—Volunteers of 1803—“Peterloo,”
August 1819–Population of Manchester at Various Periods—Bills of Mortality for each Year, 1580-1832,
and in Decades—Parliamentary Elections, 1832-1865–Anti-Corn-Law seven years' Agitation—Art Treasures
Exhibition (1857) º ë to jº § tº • . * te & 327
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT AND INSTITUTIONS.—The Old Feudal Government of Manchester—Charter of Incorpora-
tion (1838)—The Wards, the Council and its Committees—Local Acts—Royal Charters and Grants—
Boroughreeves and Mayors of Manchester and Salford–Salford Charter of Incorporation and Boundaries of
the Borough—The Wards, the Council and its Committees—Salford Local Acts—Manchester Assize-Courts
for the Hundred of Salford—Courts of Record and other Courts in Manchester and Salford—Manchester City
Police Force—New Police-Courts—City Gaol—New Bailey Prison and the New Salford Hundred Gaol—
Municipal Receipts and Expenditure—Accounts of the Manchester Corporation Waterworks and Gasworks
—Accounts of Townships in the City—Estimated Annual Value of Property in Manchester—Salford
Borough Expenditure—Manchester Poor-Law Guardians—Workhouses and Swinton Schools–Churchwardens
and Sidesmen for Manchester and Salford—Manchester Town-Hall and New Town-Hall—Chorlton-on-Medlock
and Hulme Town-Halls—Salford, Pendleton, and Broughton Town Halls—Manchester Post Office—Rainfall
for Eighteen Years—Dr. Dalton's Meteorological Observations—Soils of Manchester and Neighbourhood—
Sanitary Condition of Manchester—Health Officer—Water Supply and Corporation Waterworks—Gasworks—
Markets and Fairs—Street and other Improvements—Sewers—Hackney Coaches—Bridges—Railway Stations
—Statues—Royal Exchange—Banks—Free-Trade Hall—Literary and Philosophical Society—Other Scientific
and Literary Institutions—Athenaeum—Manchester and other Mechanics' Institutions—Manchester Royal
Institution—Natural History Society—Newspapers and Periodicals—Libraries : Royal Exchange, Foreign,
Law, etc.—Manchester Free Libraries—Salford Royal Borough Free Library–Military and Barracks—
Volunteers—Races—Theatres—Assembly Rooms—Various Manufactures and Trades—Chamber of Commerce
—Inland Bonding and Customs—Public Parks: Peel, Queen's, and Philips Parks—Old Halls and Mansions
—Chapelries of Newton, Blackley, Didsbury, Chorlton, Stretford, Denton, Gorton, and Birch—Ardwick—
Heaton Norris—Cheetham Hill—Lives of William Chadderton, D.D., Bishop of Lincoln ; William Barlow,
D.D., Bishop of Lincoln ; Humfrey Chetham, the Founder ; John Booker, Astrologer ; Ralph Brideoake,
D.D., Bishop of Chichester ; John Worthington, D.D., Master of Jesus College and Vice-Chancellor of the
University of Cambridge; John Byrom, A.M., F.R.S.; Samuel Ogden, D.D., Woodwardian Professor of
Geology, Cambridge ; Charles White, F.R.S., Surgeon and Chemist ; John Whitaker, B.D., F.R.S., the His-
torian of Early Manchester ; Henry Clarke, LL.D. ; John Dalton, D.C.L., etc., Philosopher and Chemist ;
Eaton Hodgkinson, F.R.S., etc., Mathematician—Manchester Necrology in the Nineteenth Century.—A. D.
1837 to 1867 . * º e ſº º tº g & * g 369
ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE PARISH : Early History—Name—Ancient Lords—Church and Advowson–Rectory—The
Asshetons—Riding the Black Lad—Custom Roll, and Rental of the Manor (1422)—Extent and Surface of
the Parish—Boundaries of the Parish in 1643 and in 1857—Divisions of the Parish and Area—Ashton
Town Division—The Old Hall—The Parish Church—Rectors of Ashton—Other Churches—Chapels—Liter-
ary Institutions—Charities—Canals and Railways—Cotton Manufacture—Population of the Parish, its
Divisions and Townships, and of the Municipal and Parliamentary Borough of Ashton—Ashton Moss——
—Union Workhouse—Old Halls—Hartshead Division : STALYBRIDGE—Mossley and Mossley Bottom—
Brown Edge Hill—Knott Hill and Reservoir—Rainfall there during Twelve Years—Higher Hurst—Auden-
shaw Division—Guide Bridge—Shepley Hall Estate—High and Low Arch—Hobson's Free School—Auden-
shaw Lodge—Buckley Hill—Cinderland Hall—Medlock Wale—Woodhouses—Waterhouses—Mansions in
xiv. (Tomtentā.
Audenshaw—Knott Lanes Division—Lees—Deanshut—Alt Hill—Bardsley—Taunton Hall–Mansions in
Knott Lanes—Fairfield—Rectors
ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE : Borough and Town History—Local Government—Churches and Chapels (1851 and 1867)
—Literary Institutions, Newspapers—Charities—Manufactures and Trade–Cotton Manufacture, Mills,
Engines, Looms—Fairs—Storms 1791 and 1817–Town-Hall, Banks, Market-Hall, Infirmary, Old Hall–
Parliamentary Borough and Elections since 1832—Waterworks—Baths—Charter of Incorporation (1847)—
Poor-Law Union, Area and Population, and Townships (1861)—Places of Worship—Workhouse
PRESTWICH-CUM-OLDHAM PARISH : History of—Prestwiches of Prestwich and Langleys of Agecroft–Pilkingtons
of Pilkington and their Traditions—Levers of Alkrington—Area and Population of the Parish—Parish
Church, Rectory, and Rectors—Advowson—Churches and Chapels—The Deyne or Rectory-house—Stand
Old Hall and Church—Charities—Townships of Royton and Chadderton—Life of Lawrence Chadderton,
D.D., Bishop of Chester—Lees Estate and Hall, Crompton—Land and Soil of the Chapelry of Oldham
OLDHAM : Chapelry and Borough—Area and Population—Principal Church and Incumbents—Churches and
Chapels—Free Grammar School—Charities—Devolution of the Manor of Oldham—The Cudworths—Hugh
Oldham, Bishop of Exeter, Life of Lees Hall—Trade, Manufactures, Coal-mines—Local Government—
Municipal Incorporation (1849)—Population of Municipal Borough and Buildings, Town-Council, Wards, and
Ex-Mayors—Town-Hall, Police, County Magistrates, and City Court—Gas and Water Works—Borough Rate
and rateable Value of Property in the Borough—Borough Treasurer's Accounts—Cemeteries—Alexandra
Park—Post Office, Banks, Stamp and Excise Offices—Railways and Stations—Fairs—Victoria Market—
Lyceum, School of Art, Mechanics' Institution—Warious Institutions—Volunteers—Local Events and Occur-
rences—Poor-Law Union—Markets—Parliamentary Borough and Elections since 1832
MIDDLETON PARISH : History of—Area and Population of Parish and Townships—The Manor and its Devolution
—Parish Church, Rectory, and Rectors—Charities—Free School—Middleton Hall—The Town of Middleton
—Townships of Middleton and Tonge—Local Government—Improvement Act (1861) and Compensation
Commissioners' Accounts—Police, Post Office, Bank, Railways and Stations—National School, Newspapers,
Baths, Free Library, Church Reading-room and Library, Co-operative Society and Stores—Trade—Riots—
Agricultural, Floral, and Horticultural Societies—Burial-ground—Local Annals—Rhodes, and the Print-
works of Messrs. S. Schwabe and Company—Life of Rev. William Assheton, D.D.—Townships of Birtle-
cum-Bamford and Hopwood—The Hopwood Will Cause (1855)—Townships of Ainsworth and Great Lever
—Notes of Mr. D. Rasbotham on Great Lever and Hall in 1788—New Church—Thornham Estate—Advow-
son (1861)
ROCHDALE PARISH : History of, its Divisions and Townships, their Area and Population—De Lacy, Inquisition of
1311—Devolution of the Manor—Its Lords, the Lacys and Byrons—The Parish Church and Vicarage, Tithes
and Glebe Lands—The Church Edifice and Burial-ground—Chantries and Monuments—Rectors and Vicars—
Churches, Chapels, etc., in Parish—Rise of Dissent—Boundaries of the Parish—Poor-Law Union and
Relief (1860-67)—Valuations of Property—Collieries—Castleton Township—Devolution of Estates—Butter-
worth—Milnrow—Hundersfield, Littleborough, Todmorden and Walsden—Spotland—Whitworth—Old Halls
—Saddleworth, Roche Abbey—Rochdale Town, Municipal and Parliamentary Borough—Parliamentary
Elections since 1832—Statistics of Parliamentary and Municipal Borough and Buildings—Local Govern-
ment—Charter of Incorporation (1856), Mayors, Committees, and Receipts and Expenditure of Corporation
—Petty Sessions, Police, and Fire Establishments—County Court—Water Supply—Gas—Rochdale Vicarage
Act and Estate—Town-Hall, Cemetery, Post-Office, Banks, Savings Bank, Chamber of Commerce and Mer-
chants' Association—Baths—Co-operative Societies and Stores—Climate and Sanitary Condition of the Town
-—Charities—Free Grammar School—Charitable, Literary, and other Institutions—Newspapers—Theatre—
Manufactures and Trade—Improvements—Markets and Fairs—Rush-bearing—Local Events and Occurrences
BURY PARISH : Area and Population of the Parish and its Townships—The Old Castle and Castle Barracks—
—Early History of the Parish and Devolution of the Manor—De Lacy Inquisition of 1311—Old Halls—
The Parish Church, Edifice, Monuments, Registers—The Living and the Glebe-lands—Rectory and Rectors—
PAGE
423
426
446
453
468
482
(Tomtentā. *. XV
PAGE
Churches and Chapels—Rise of Dissent—Charities—Manufactures—John and Robert Kay—The Peel
Family—Increase of the Population—Poor-Law Union—Musbury, Cowpe, Lench, Newhall Hey, and Hall
Carr—Royal Manor of Tottington, Holcombe, Elton, Heap, Heywood, Walmersley—Old Halls in the Parish—
Dialect—Bury Town and Parliamentary Borough, its Boundaries—Elections since 1832—Parliamentary and
Municipal Statistics—Places of Worship in 1851—Local Government by Commissioners—Rates—Gas and
Water—Burial Board and Cemetery—Commissioners' Receipts and Expenditure—Petty Sessions—Estimated
Population of the Borough and Townships in 1867—County Court—Police and Fire Establishments—Banks,
Dispensary, Newspapers, Monuments—Co-operative Society and Stores—Fall of the Theatre (1787), and
Wreck of the Rothesay Castle Steamer (1831)—The Market and Hall—Chapels, etc.—Life of John
Warburton, F.R.S., F.A.S., Somerset Herald • gº & . 514
RADCLIFFE PARISH . Of Saxon Origin—Named in Domesday—The Radcliffes and the Devolution of the Manor—
License to kernel and embattle Radcliffe Tower—The Parish Church, its Monuments and Windows—Living,
Advowson, Rectory, and Rectors—Episcopal and other Chapels—Charities—Radcliffe Tower and its Remains
–Legend of the Radcliffe Tragedy—Local Government—Hamlet of Whitefield—Area and Population of the
Parish—Manufactures, Fairs, etc.—Reservoir—Life of Warden Wroe, the “Silver-tongued” g . 528
DEAN PARISH : History of—Devolution of the Manor—The Three Townships and the Family of Hulton–Area
and Population of the Parish and its Townships—Rumworth, Middle Hulton, Kersley, Westhoughton, Horwich,
Smithells, and Little Hulton–Roman Road—The Parish Church, its Structure—Living, Advowson, and
Vicars—Episcopal and other Chapels—Charities—Local Events and Occurrences—Population and Manufac-
tures—Lives of Richard Bancroft, D.D., Archbishop of Canterbury ; of Martin Heton, D.D., Bishop of
Ely; of George Marsh, the Martyr—Over, Middle, and Little Hulton–The Families of Rigby, Kenyon, and
Yates–Townships of Kersley and Farnworth–Dorning Rasbotham—Township of Halliwell—Smithells
Hall and its Possessors—Townships of Heaton and Horwich, and Forest of Horwich—Wilder Lads—
Hanging or Giant's Stone and Dane's Dyke—Schools in the Parish–Soils, Farms, and Land-rents—Quarries
and Mines º sº g º gº * e g tº tº * . 534
BOLTON PARISH : History of Population and Area of Parish and Townships—Devolution of the Manor—Leland's
and Camden's Visits—The Living and Vicarage—The Parish Church and its Monuments and Registers—The
Old Church taken down (1866)—New Church in Progress of Erection—Vicars, New Parishes, Lectureship,
and Churches in the Old Parish—List of Churches and Chapels—Charities—Manufactures and Trade—
Notes of Dorning Rasbotham—Samuel Crompton invents the Mule—Statistics of Manufacturing—Poor-Law
Union—Little Bolton—Little Lever and Hall—Darcy Lever, Tonge-with-Haulgh, and Breightmet —
Harwood, Sharples, Bradshaw, Turton, Quarlton, Edgeworth, Entwisle—The Entwisle Family and Sir
Bertine—Longworth, Anlezargh, Rivington–The Pilkingtons of Rivington, and Life of James Pilk-
ington, D.D., Bishop of Durham—Blackrod and Lostock—Soil of the Parish and Land-rents, Mosses, Coal
and Lead Mines, Mineral Springs, Climate * º ſº * * {- e . 547
BOLTON : Borough and Town, its Manufactures and Trade—Works and Factories—Canals and Railways—Prices
of Provisions (1745 and 1787)—Population—Townships of Great and Little Bolton—Schools—Charter of
Incorporation (1838)—Accounts of Corporation—Ex-Mayors—Town-Hall, Police, Fire-Engines, County
Court—Water-Supply, Rainfall, and Gas—Street Improvements—Post-Office, Banks, Market-Hall, Squares,
Public Library and Museum, and other Institutions — Infirmary, Baths, Concert Hall, Theatre, Parks,
Cemetery, Exchange—Volunteers, Co-operative Societies—Working Men's Dwellings—Parliamentary Borough,
and Elections since 1842—Parliamentary Electoral Returns—Local Events and Occurrences º . 55.8
ECCLES PARISH : History of—Area and Population of Parish and Townships—Roman Road—Name and Family of
Eccles—Barton-upon-Irwell Township, and Devolution of the Manor—Barton and Booth Families—Whickles-
wick Manor—Cadishead—Parish Church, its Structure and Restorations, Monuments, Ancient Assignment
of Pews—Advowson—Deeds relating to Eccles Church in Whalley Abbey Coucher-Book—Chantries—
Rectory and its Devolution, Tradition of Tithes, Vicars, Registers, and Marriages—John Bradford the Martyr
—Terrier of the Glebe—Episcopal Chapels—Pendleton Church—Dissenting Chapels—Monton Chapel and
Ministers—Charities—Bury Lane Fight—Population of the Parish (1776-1861)—Wakes and Guisings—May-
poles and Sports at Pendleton and Pendlebury—Local Annals—Manufactures, Canals, and Railways—
xvi
Contents.
Patricroft, Bridgewater Foundry and Christ Church—Barton Village and Old Hall—Trafford, Beaucliffe,
Monks, Lostock, Davyhulme, Irlam, and Great and Little Woolden Halls—Greaves Family—Chat Moss,
Reclamation and Cultivation—Hamlets in Barton—Barton Poor-Law Union and Workhouse—Pendleton
Township, and Devolution of the Manor—Pendlebury Township and Agecroft Hall—Irlam's-o'-th'-Height,
and Church—Clifton, and Devolution of the Manor—Worsley, and Devolution of the Manor—The Worsley
Family and the Three Halls of Worsley—Kempnall and Wardley Halls, and the Story of a Skull—Booths Town,
Manor and Hall—Bridgewater Canal—New Parish of Worsley—Ellenbrook Chapel—New Parish of Walkden
Moor—Villages and Hamlets in Worsley–New Parish of Swinton, and Proposed New Church and Chapels—
Lives of William Booth and Lawrence Booth, Archbishops of York and Lord Chancellors of England ; of
Thomas Langley, Cardinal, Lord Chancellor, and Bishop of Durham ; of Robert Ainsworrh, F.A.S.,
Lexicographer ; of Barton Booth, Tragedian
FLIXTON PARISH : History of—Area and Population of Parish, and Devolution of the Manors of Flixton and
Urmston–The Parish Church—Flixton a Prebend of Lichfield Cathedral—Rectory, Incumbents, Registers,
and Monuments—Chapels and Charities—Decrease of the Population—Willages of Flixton and Urmston—
Flixton House and Shaw Hall—Urmston a New Ecclesiastical District—New Church—Urmston Hall
—Notice of John Collier (“Tim Bobbin”)—Soil and Land-rents in the Parish
ADDENDA To VoIUME I: Population of Lancashire, its Parishes, Townships, etc., at Seven Censuses—Population
of the entire County, its Hundreds and Boroughs—Population of the Registration or Union County—Births,
Marriages, and Deaths in the Ten Years (1851-1860)—Inhabited Houses and Population of the Parliamentary
and Municipal Boroughs of Lancashire (1861)—Ages, Conditions, and Occupations of the People of Lancashire
(1861)—Population of the Parliamentary Divisions of the County (1865-6)—County Registration (1st January
1868)—Valuations of Property for County Rate (1854 and 1866)—Property and Income Tax Returns (1860)
—County Magistrates and Officers (March 1868)—County Courts (1868)—Poor-rates and Relief, Lancashire
(1865-66)—Co-operative Societies in the County—Local Courts—County Rifle Association—Mayors in Salford
Hundred (1867-8)—Old Deanery of Manchester—Consolidated and other Chapelries in the Diocese—
Statistical Notes of Diocese–Population and Area of Townships in the (Old) Parish of Manchester (1861)—
Ditto in the Parliamentary City of Manchester—Ditto in the Parliamentary Borough of Salford—Owens
College ; Bequest of John Owens; Benefactions, Officers, Exhibitions, Scholarships, etc.—Manchester Police
Statistics (1867)—Births and Deaths in Manchester and Salford (1867)—Marriages in Manchester Cathedral
(1867)—Manchester Natural History Society and Museum—Manchester Free Public Libraries—Manchester
Portico Library and News Room—Salford Royal Borough Library, Museum, and Peel Park (1867)—Pendleton
Working People's Association (1867)—Manchester Free Grammar School—Manchester Botanical and
Horticultural Society (1867)—New Park for Hulme—Manchester Rainfall (1867)—Chorlton Union Statistics
Manchester and Salford Nurse-Training Institution—Manchester Convalescent Hospital, Cheadle Hall—
Manchester Clinical Hospital, Park Place, Cheetham—The Fenian Outrage in Hyde Road; Special
Commission ; Trials and Executions—Stretford: Local Government Act—Oldham : Parliamentary, Electoral,
and Municipal Returns and Statistics (1865-6)
PACE
. 607
. 612
THE
HISTORY OF LAN CASH I R.E.
—º-
CHAPTER I.
Earliest Notices of Lancashire—The Roman Conquest and Rule in Britain-B.C. 55 to A.D. 448.
%iº. sºHE County of Lancaster, though not particularly famed for those monuments of antiquity
.." gººd #/s. which shed a lustre on history, local as well as national, is by no means destitute of ancient
j #|| ſº Žº remains. Its distinguishing characteristics, however, consist in the extent of its commerce,
&lsº º 9 the importance of its manufactures, the number and value of its modern institutions, and the
º: alº sº* activity and enterprise of its abundant population. In tracing the history of such a county,
tº º
with accuracy the monuments bequeathed to us by our ancestors.
For nearly four thousand years of the world’s existence, the history of this county, and of this country,
is almost a blank, except so far as it may be read in its geological phenomena; and it may be confidently
asserted, that before the first landing of Julius Caesar upon our shores, scarcely anything is known of the
people who inhabited this island, or of the government and institutions under which they lived.
According to Ptolemy, the inhabitants of the country between the lofty ridge which now separates
Yorkshire from Lancashire, and the bay of Morecambe, bore the name of the Setanții, or Seganti—the
dwellers in “the country of water;” which district, on the second invasion of the Romans, was included in
the more extensive province of the Brigantes, extending on the east side of the island from the Humber to
the Tyne, and on the west from the Mersey to the Eden, and comprehending the six counties of Yorkshire,
Durham, Northumberland, Cumberland, Westmorland, and Lancashire. This being the most powerful and
populous nation in Britain, during the Roman sway, it is the most celebrated by the best writers."
Historians are generally agreed that the Aborigines of Britain, as Caesar calls our earliest ancestors, were
Gauls or Gaels, who emigrated from the Continent, and settled in this island” about a thousand years before
the birth of Christ. The more probable conjecture is, as Caesar intimates, that the interior parts of Britain,
to the north and to the west, and consequently Lancashire, were peopled by the earliest inhabitants, and the
maritime parts by those who crossed over from Belgium, in Gaul, for the purpose of invading it, almost all of
whom had their names from the tribes whence they sprang, and, on the cessation of hostilities, remained
here.
Before the first invasion of the Romans, the inhabitants of this part of the island subsisted chiefly by
hunting; and their cattle grazed upon pastures, unencumbered by any of the artificial divisions which a state
of cultivation never fails to produce. For their clothing, when the severity of the season compelled them to
submit their limbs to such restraints, they were indebted to the skins of animals; and their dwellings were
formed by the pillars of the forest, rooted in the earth, and enclosed by interwoven branches, which but
imperfectly served to shelter them during the hours of repose from the conflict of the elements. Their
governments, according to Diodorus Siculus, the ancient historian, though monarchical, were free, like those
of all the Celtic nations; and their religion, which formed one part of the government, was Druidical: their
deities were furies; human sacrifices were offered to them ;” and the eternal transmigration of souls was
inculcated, and universally believed. The manners and customs of the ancient Britons resembled those of
the Gauls. They were extremely warlike, eager for slaughter, and bold and courageous in battle. Dion
Cassius, speaking of the Britons in the northern part of the island (the Brigantes), says,
“They never cultivate the land, but live on prey, hunting, and the fruits of trees; for they never touch fish, of which they
have such prodigious plenty. They live in tents, naked, and without shoes; have their wives in common, and maintain all their
children. The people share the government amongst them, and they practise robbery without restraint. They fight in chariots,
having small fleet horses; they have also infantry, who can run very swiftly, and while they stand are very firm. Their arms are
* Camden, vol. iii. p. 233. * Rich. de Cir. b. I. cap. ii. sect. 4. * Solinus.
B






2 Qſìje #istºry ºf 3Lancašijire. CHAP, I.
a shield, and a short spear, on the lower part of which is a bell of brass, to terrify the enemy by its Sound when shaken. They
likewise wear daggers. They are accustomed to brave hunger, cold, and all kinds of toil; for they will continue several days up
to their chins in water, and bear hunger many days. In the woods they live on bark and roots of trees. They prepare a certain
kind of food for all occasions, a piece of which, of the size of a bean, prevents their feeling hunger or thirst.” Pliny says, “the
Britons and Gauls wore a ring on their middle finger;” and Caesar describes them as wearing long hair.” They wore, like the Gauls,
a particular dress, called bracha :-‘‘Like the old brachae of a needy Briton.”
But the description of the manners and customs of the ancient Britons, as given by Caesar, is the most
full and clear.
“The Britons,” says the Roman conqueror, “use brass money, or iron rings of a certain weight instead of it. They think it
not right to eat hares, poultry, or geese, though they breed them all for amusement. Of all the natives, the most civilised are the
inhabitants of Cantium [Kent, all that country lying on the sea-coast; and the manners of this people are not very different from
those of the Gauls. The inland inhabitants for the most part sow no corn, but live on milk and flesh, and for clothing wear skins.
All the Britons stain themselves with woad, which produces a blue colour, and gives them a more horrible appearance in battle.
They wear the hair of their head long, but close and bare on every part of their body, except their head and upper lip. They have
their wives in common among ten or twelve of them, especially brothers with brothers, and parents with children ; but the issue by
these wives belongs to those who married them when virgins. Most of them use chariots in battle. They first scour up and down
On every side, throwing their darts, creating disorder among the ranks by the terror of their horses and noise of their chariot-wheels;
and when they are got among the troops of horse, they leap out, and fight on foot. Meantime the charioteers retire to a little dis-
tance from the field, and place themselves in such a manner, that if the others are overpowered by the number of the enemy, they
may be secure to make good their retreat. Thus they act with the agility of cavalry, and the steadiness of infantry, in battle, and
become so expert by constant practice, that in declivities and precipices they can stop their horses on full speed, and on a sudden
check and turn them, run along the pole, stand on the yoke, and then as quickly dart into their chariots again. They frequently
retreat on purpose, and, after they have drawn our men a little way from the main body, leap from their poles, and wage an unequal
war on foot. Their manner of fighting on horseback creates the same danger, both to the retreater and the pursuer. Add to this,
that they never fight in bodies, but scattered and at great distances, and have parties in reserve Supporting One another, and fresh
troops ready to relieve the weary.” 4
Though Caesar says that the Gauls had different languages, he adds, that it was usual for the Gauls to
come over to Britain to receive instruction from our Druids; and Tacitus” says, “The language of the Britons
and the Gauls is not very different.”
The Romans, in their thirst for universal empire, after subduing Gaul, turned their attention towards
Britain. Caesar's two expeditions into Britain, in the year 55 B.C., ended in a partial conquest of the south
and South-east parts of the island, limited to the districts of the coast, and those washed by the Thames, and
certainly not extending northward to within a hundred miles of Lancashire. But the sun of Roman glory
had now passed its meridian. Distracted by domestic wars, which ended in the establishment of an absolute
monarchy in Rome, the conquerors had little force to spare for the preservation of distant conquests; the
Britons, were, therefore, for a long time, left to themselves, and, for nearly a century after the invasion of
Caesar, they enjoyed, unmolested, their own civil and religious institutions.
In the interval between the first and second invasion of Britain by the Romans, the founder of the
Christian religion had accomplished his divine mission, in a province of the Roman empire, but almost with-
out observation at Rome ; and, ten years after his death (A.D. 43), the Emperor Claudius sent over an army
to this country, under the command of Aulus Plautius, the first Roman general who landed on this island
since the invasion of Julius Caesar. The Emperor Claudius, and his generals Plautius, Vespasian, and Titus,
Subdued several provinces of Britain, after thirty pitched battles with the natives, in A.D. 43 and 44. Suetonius
defeated the British under Boadicea in A.D. 61 ; but it was not till the reign of Domitian that Lancashire
was really invaded and finally conquered by the Romans, under the successor of Suetonius, Julius Agricola.
At this period the principal and the most able commander amongst the Britons was Venutius, of the state of
the Brigantes; and it is probable that the progress of the Roman arms in the country of the Segantii (Lanca-
shire), was arrested by the skill and valour of this native general; but the discipline and constancy of the
Roman troops, now commanded by Agricola, “struck a panic into the state of the Brigantes, which,” accord-
ing to Tacitus, “was accounted the most numerous of the whole country, by attacking them with great force;
and after several, and some of them bloody battles, he reduced great part of Britain by victory, or involved
it in war.”” When Agricola, who added to the bravery of the soldier the skill of the statesman, had
alarmed the native inhabitants by his severity, he offered inducements to peace by his clemency. By this
conduct many of the states, and the Brigantes amongst the rest, which till then had stood out, gave hostages,
and submitted to have a line of garrisons and castles drawn round them. This was the origin of our
Roman stations.
“In order that men who, by their unsettled and uncivilised state, were always ready for war, might be accustomed to peace and
inactivity by pleasure, the general privately suggested, and publicly concurred in, the erecting of temples, market-places, and houses,
* Sir Robert Sibbald supposes this to be the root of orobus, or the * B, G. v. 14. * Martial.
Wild Astragalus thalius, which has a taste like liquorice, and is called
by the Highlanders, who chew it for the same purpose at present, * B. G. V. 12. * Wit. Agr. xi.
ſcarémyle. (Scotia Illust. p. i. lib. i. c. 17-19.) The plant meant
by Sir Robert (for it is not easily identified by this description) is * Agricola seems to have invaded and conquered what is now
the heath peaseling, the Orobus tuberosus of Linnaeus. Lancashire in the Summer and autumn of A.D. 79.—H.
CHAP. I.
* . * . . . . .” { . . . . . . Y. p . . .
Giffe #istory of 3Lancashire. 'f 3.
commending those who showed a readiness to these works, and censuring those who appeared remiss. This honourable emulation
produced the effect of obligation. He applied himself to instruct the sons of the chiefs in the liberal arts, and appeared to prefer
the genius of the Britons to the accomplishments of the Gauls; inasmuch as they, who but a little time before disdained the language,
Inow affected the eloquence of Rome. This produced an esteem for the Roman dress, and the toga came into general use. By
degrees the Britons adopted the vicious indulgences of the Romans, and the porticoes, the baths, and the splendid banquets, entered
into the number of their enjoyments. This, which they called cultivation, was in effect the appendage of slavery.” I Pursuing
his victorious career, Agricola carried the terror of his arms to the remotest part of Scotland, and added Ireland to the number of
his conquests. At length, having traversed the country from its southern to its northern extremity, in the short period of eight
years, he returned to Rome, where the Emperor Domitian, rendered jealous by his renown, received him with a cold salute, and then
left the conqueror of Britain to mix with the servile crowd of the imperial court.”
From the departure of Agricola (A.D. 82) till the arrival of the Emperor Hadrian in Britain (A.D. 117),
the name of the Brigantes scarcely occurs in history. It appears, however, that they were subjected to the
incursions of their northern neighbours, the Picts, and that the emperor, “after correcting many things, drew
a wall eighty miles in length, on the northern boundary of the country of the Brigantes, to confine the ‘Bar-
barians’ within the limits of their own borders.” Nearly a century had now elapsed since the second invasion
of Briton by the Romans, and in the course of that period there had risen up in Lancashire the stations' of
Mancunium, MANCHESTER ;* Veratinum, WARRINGTON; Ferigonium, RIBCHESTER ;’ Columium, CoLNE; Coccium,
BLACKRODE; Ad Alaunam (the Longovicus of the Notitia), LANCASTER ; Bremetonacaº, OVERBOROUGH."
The estuaries into which the rivers that watered these stations fell, though involved in some degree of
uncertainty, from the vague and indecisive character of the Roman charts, were—THE MERSEY, called
Belisama ; THE NEB OF THE NESE (Freckleton), at the mouth of the Ribble, called the Haven of the Setantii,
or the Setanțian Port ; and THE BAY OF MORECAMBE.” -
The Lancashire stations communicated with Isurium (Aldborough) and Eboracum (York), the Brigantine
capitals, by roads constructed by the Roman soldiery, and with other towns enumerated in the Itinerary of
Antoninus, the Chorography of Ravenna, and the Description of Britain by Richard of Cirencester.
It is conjectured that the principal part of the Roman roads in Britain was commenced by Julius
Agricola to facilitate his conquests. The four grand military Roman ways in Britain bear the names of
Watling Street, Hermin Street, the Fosse, and Ikening or Iknild Street; but it is only the first-mentioned of
these roads that comes within the scope of this history. Each of the stations affords its antiquities: Rib-
chester abounds with remains; and Colne, Freckleton, Lancaster, Manchester, Overborough, and Warrington,
will be found, in the progress of this work, to exhibit in succession their antiquarian stores, and to proclaim
their ancient alliance with the Mistress of the World. After the lapse of sixteen centuries, the county of
Lancaster still presents innumerable remains of these celebrated roads. At least four great Roman roads pass
through this county—two of them from north to south, and two others from west to east.
The first of the Roman routes" extends from Carlisle (Luguvallium) in Cumberland, to Kinderton
(Condate) in Cheshire: passing through Lancaster, it advances pretty nearly due south, near Garstang and
Preston, to Blackrod ; then taking the direction of Walkden Moor, where it assumes the name of Staney-
street, it advances by the Hope Hall estate, crosses the highway from Manchester to Warrington, and, having
passed the ford of the Irwell at the shallow which gives denomination to Old Trafford, proceeds through the
village of Stretford to the bridge over the Mersey; then, pointing at Altringham, it passes along the declivity
* Tacitus, Vit. Agricolae, xxi.
* Wit. Agricolae, xl.
* Wit. Hadriani, Scrip. Hist. Aug. p. 51.
* Whitaker's History of Manchester.
* The name or termination Caster, Cester, or Chester, from Castra,
a camp, generally indicates a Roman station.
* Since Mr. Baines wrote, several discoveries have been made as
to Roman stations, roads, etc., which render some rectification
Inecessary. John Robson, Esq., M.D., of Warrington, has shown
that the station named Comdate, in Cheshire, was not, as previously
supposed, at Kinderton near Middlewich, but at Wilderspool, on
the Mersey, four miles from Warrington. He suggests that one of
the difficulties in reconciling the Itimera of Antoninus and of Richard
of Cirencester, as to the station which is supposed to have occupied
the site of modern Manchester, would be romoved by the hypothesis
that Mamucium = Saxon Ma'mecestre+ modern Manchester; and
that Mancunium is some place on another ſter, not far from Man-
chester, but distinct from it. (See Hist. Soc. of Lancashire and
Cheshire Proceedings, vol. ii. p. 34.) Again, it is supposed that the
Veratinum of the Ravenna, usually identified with Warrington,
was not so much a station as the name of a ford there over the
Mersey. Mr. Charles Hardwick, in 1855, discovered the remains
of a Roman station at Walton-le-Dale, near Preston, and this seems
to be admitted as most likely to have been the station of Coccium.
The ablest writers on Roman roads and stations in Lancashire have
been the late Rev. Edmund Sibson, of Ashton-in-Makerfield ; the
late Mr. John Just, of Bury; John Robson, Esq., M.D., of Warring-
ton ; Mr. Charles Hardwick; and Mr. T. T. Wilkinson, F.R.A.S., of
Burnley. The results of their investigations may be generally
stated:—From south to north–Condate=Wilderspool, Cheshire ;
Mamucium=Manchester; Coccium = Walton, near Preston ; Reri-
gonium or Rigodunum = Ribchester ; Bremetomacis = Lancaster;
Ad Alauna/m- Overborough ; Calumio = Castercliffe, Colne. Mr.
Wilkinson regards Ad Alpes Penimos or Gallumio, as–Portfield,
Whalley. Mr. Hardwick regards the chief Roman stations in
Lancashire as “a double line of forts to guard the passes over the
principal rivers in Lancashire ; ” the first line being placed “at the
head of the tidal estuaries of the Mersey, the Ribble, and the Lune,”
and comprising Condate (Wilderspool) on the Mersey, Coccium
(Walton) on the Ribble, and Bremetonacis (Lancaster) on the Lume.
The second or inland line of forts is formed of Mamucium (Man-
chester), on the Irwell, a tributary of the Mersey; Rerigonium (Rib-
chester) on the Ribble; and Ad Aldunam (Overborough or Burrow)
on the Lune. (See Hardwick's History of Preston, p. 34.)—H.
7 For the causes referred to in note 6, the present allocation
of the estuaries is thus given :-Seieia (Estuarium= Estuary of the
Dee ; Belisama (Estuarium = Estuary of the Ribble ; Portus Sistun-
tiorum = Mouth of the Wyre ; Morecambe (Estuarium = Morecambe
Bay. It may be objected to this arrangement, that the great Lan-
cashire commercial river, the Mersey, is altogether omitted, as if
not known to the Romans. It may be that the Dee, then a much
nobler river than now, was by them preferred to that stream, which
divided the northern Brigantes from the Cestrian Cornabii, though
their station or ford of Veratinum was on the Mersey.—H.
* These routes require to be rectified in accordance with the two
notes immediately preceding.—H.
4 Qſìje 39tgforu of £ancashire. CHAP. T.
of the hills, and enters Dunham Park; here it takes the name of Street to Bucklow Hill; from hence it
passes to Mere Town; when, leaving Northwich about half-a-mile to the right, it takes the name of King
Street at Broken Cross, and proceeds to Kinderton, the Condate of Antoninus, now a suburb of Middlewich. ()
The second Roman road extends from Overborough to Slack or Almondbury (Cambodunum) in York-
shire. This road passes through Ribchester, across the Ribble ; then, proceeding to the east of Blackburn,
through Radcliffe and Prestwich over Kersall Moor, is carried by Strangeways to Manchester; traversing
that township obliquely, it passes over Newton Heath, by Haigh Chapel, to the Summit of Austerlands, where
it enters Yorkshire, passes Knoll Hill in Saddleworth, and, crossing the Manchester and Huddersfield road
at Delph, leaves Marsden about a mile and a half to the south, skirts Golcar Hill, and attains the plot of
Cambodunum (Slack). .
The third route commences at the Neb of the Nese, on the right bank of the Ribble, called by the
Romans The Setantian [Sistuntian] Port, or, as we should express it, The Port of Lancashire ; this road changes
from west to east, and, crossing the Lancaster road, leaves Preston about a mile to the right, assuming
on Fulwood Moor the name of Watling Street; hence it proceeds to Ribchester, from which station it
passes over Longridge Fell, and then, turning to the north, traces the Hodder to its source.
The fourth Roman road commences at the ford of the Mersey, near Warrington, and passes through
Barton and Eccles to Manchester; it afterwards traverses the townships of Moston, Chadderton, and Royton,
and keeping about a quarter of a mile to the right of Rochdale by the Oldham road, continues through
Littleborough ; afterwards, mounting the British Apennines, it sweeps over Rumbles Moor and advances to
Ilkley, the Olicana of Ptolemy, where stood the temple of Werbeia, the goddess of the Wharf.
The Roman Stations in Lancashire occur in the second and the tenth routes of the Itinerary of
Antoninus, and are thus arranged —”
ITER II.
.# .# # * ** 3: * 3% .#
EBURACVM. (LEG. VI. Vic.) York.
CALCARIA . M. P. IX. Tadcaster.
CAMBODVNO M. P. XX. . Slack.
MAMUCIO M.P. XVIII. . Manchester.
CONDATE g M. P. XVIII. Wilderspool.
DEVA. (LEG. XX. Vic.) M. P. XX. Chester.
ITER X. -
From Lanchester, in the County of Durham, to Drayton, in Shropshire.
A GLANOVENTA.
From Lanchester.
GALAVA M.P. XVIII. . Keswick. .
ALONE. M.P. XII. . Ambleside.
GALACVM M.P. XIX. ... near Kendal.
BREMETONACI M. P. XXVII. . Lancaster.
CoCCIO. M. P. XX. Walton-le-Dale.
MANCVNIO . M.P. XVII. . (?) Manchester.
CONDATE M. P. XVIII. Wilderspool.
MEDIOLANO. M.P. XVIII. Chesterton.
The Itinerary of Richard of Cirencester” is more full, and thus exhibits the Lancashire Stations, with
their immediate connections, in the VI. VII. and X. routes:—
- ITER WI.
Ab EBORACO DEVAM UsquE SIC. From York to Chester
CALCARIA M.P. IX. Tadcaster.
CAMBODUNO . M.P. XXII. . . Slack.
MANCUNIO g e M.P. XVIII. . . Manchester.
FINIBUS MAXIM.A. ET FILAVIAE M. P. XVIII. . Stretford on Mersey.
CONDATE $º M.P. XVIII. Wilderspool.
DEVA . | M.P. XVIII. . Chester.
TTER WII.
A PORTU SISTUNTIORUM EBORACUM USQUE SIC. From the mouth of the Wyre to York.
RERIGONIO . º & g ſº M.P. XXIII. . . Ribchester.
AD ALPES PENINos M.P. VIII. . . Portfield, Whalley.
ALIGANA M.P. X. . . Ilkley.
ISURIO . M.P. XVIII. . . Aldborough.
EBORACO M.P. XVI. . York, -
* The lists, as given above, are from the edition by Wesseling
(Amsterdam, 1735), the most accurate copy of Antoninus known,
' and very much more correct than that printed in the original edition
of this work. The Itinerary is supposed to have been compiled
about A.D. 320.
The letters M. P. Mille Passus, a thousand paces,
usually called Roman miles, equal 4834:28 English feet, the English
mile being 5280 feet, or 446 feet longer than the Roman mile.—H.
* Of doubtful authority: the MS. not known.—H.
CHAP. I. Qſìje #istorg of £antagijire. 5
*
ITER X.
* * * + º: +
BROCAVONACIS . * -> º ſº - o * º º g . . Brougham.
AD ALAUNAM . e - e g - s . M.P. XXXXVII. . . Overborough.
COCCIO . & e - g e º º º M. P. XXXVI. . . Walton.
MANCUNIO e e º s º - e wº . M.P. XVIII. . . (?) Manchester.
CONDATE . - g - e g o s s . M. P. XXIII. . . Wilderspool.
+ + + + + +
Several other roads, called Vicinal-ways, are to be found in this county, but the routes above described
form the four principal military communications. These roads generally consist of a regular pavement, formed
by large boulder stones or fragments of rock imbedded in gravel, and vary in width from four to fourteen
yards. It is a singular characteristic of the Roman roads, that they are not carried over rivers by bridges,
but by fords, except where the rivers are impassable, and then bridges are thrown over.’
The terror of the Roman name, and the vigour of their arms, seemed scarcely able to keep in subjection
the inhabitants of Britain, who sought every opportunity to shake off the foreign yoke. According to
Herodian, the propraetor in Britain addressed a dispatch to the Emperor Severus, to the effect that “the in-
Surrections and inroads of the Barbarians, and the havoc they made far and near, rendered it necessary that
he should either increase the Roman force in this country, or that he should come over in person.” On this
intimation, the emperor, though then advanced in life, and sinking under bodily infirmities, repaired to
Britain, and established his court in Eboracum (York), the capital of the Brigantes. Having collected his
force round that city (A.D. 207), the emperor, attended by his sons Caracalla and Geta, marched from York,
at the head of a powerful army, to the North, where he drove the Caledonians within their frontiers, and
erected a stone wall within the vallum of Hadrian, and very nearly upon the site of that celebrated earthen
rampart. The loss of Roman soldiers in this expedition, according to Dion Cassius, amounted to 50,000 men,
partly by war, and partly in cutting down the Woods, and draining the mosses, for which the north of
England, and Lancashire in particular, is to the present day distinguished. To commemorate his victories,
Severus coined money with the inscription, VICTORIAE BRITANNICAE; he also assumed the name of BRITAN-
NICUS MAXIMUS, and gave to his son Geta the name of BRITANNICUS, .
Mints were established by the Romans at eleven of their British stations, two of which were York and
Chester; and it is probable that from these northern mints the coin was circulated over Lancashire. No
fewer than fifty different Roman coins have been found at Standish, in this county, near the ancient Coccium,
several of which are from dies struck by the Emperor Severus,
After the death of Severus at York, and the return of Caracalla to Rome, a long and profound silence is
observed by the Roman historians as to the affairs of Britain; and it is not till the reign of Dioclesian,—when
Carausius, himself a Briton, who, being sent by the emperor with a fleet to guard the Belgic coast, embraced
the opportunity to pass over into this island, and got himself proclaimed emperor at York,+that any incident
appertaining to the subject of this history is recorded.
One of the most interesting discoveries of Roman remains in Lancashire was made during the Summer
of 1796, at Ribchester, by a youth, the son of Joseph Walton, in a hollow, nine feet below the surface of the
ground, that had been made in the waste land at the side of the road leading to the church, and near the
bed of the river. It is conjectured, that when these antiquities were deposited in this place, the sand was
thrown amongst them to preserve them in a dry state, but they are in general much defaced by the corrosive
effect of Sand upon copper during a period of nearly two thousand years. These antiquities were purchased
by Charles Townley, Esq. of Townley Hall, in this county, from the persons who found them, and they are
described by that gentleman in a letter addressed by him to the Rev. John Brand, secretary to the Society
of Antiquaries, the substance of which will be found in its proper place in these volumes. It will be suffi-
cient to say here, that they consist of a helmet; a number of patera; the remains of a vase ; a bust of
* Galen, ix. c. 8. methodi.

6 Qſìje #igturn ºf £ancashire. CHAP. T.
Minerva; the remains of two basins; a number of circular plates; and various other curiosities, many of
which appear to have been appropriated to religious uses.
“The helmet,” says Mr. Townley, “deserves the particular attention of the curious as the remains of remote ages; very few
ancient ones, decorated with embossed figures, have as yet appeared. The three or four which were preserved in the Museum at
Portici are esteemed to be the most richly ornamented, and the best as to style of workmanship; but when this helmet was in its
proper state, it must have been equal, at least, to those in point of decoration, and in respect to its having a vizor imitating so
exactly the human features, I believe it to be the only ancient example of the kind that has yet been discovered. This singularity
may excite a doubt, whether such a helmet was destined for real combat, or only for the enrichment of occasional trophies which
were erected in the celebration of military festivals, or carried in procession amongst the Greeks and Romans. Trophies of this sort
are seen on various medals, with the names of the people, whose subjugation such trophies are meant to record, inserted upon them;
as for example, DE SARMATIs—DE GERMANIs, on the medals of Marcus Aurelius and Commodus. The Superior style of work-
manship of the mask to that of the head-piece is also remarkable; in the former, the beauty of the features, the excellent work of
the figures in relief, and more particularly by the sharp edges and lines with which the eye-brows, eye-lids, and lips are marked,
after the manner of Grecian art preceding the Caesars, denote it to have been executed some ages before the head-piece, the coarse
and heavy work of which corresponds with that of the artists employed in the reign of Septimius Severus, and particularly with the
sculpture upon the arch of that emperor, situated near the Capitol hill at Rome. The cheek measures ten inches and a half from
its junction to the scull-piece, at the top of the forehead, to its bottom, under the chin. A row of Small detached locks of hair sur-
rounds the forehead a little above the eyes, reaching to the ears, which are well delineated. . Upon the locks of hair rests the bottom
of a diadem or tutulus, which at the centre in the front is two inches and a quarter in height, diminishing at the extremities to one
inch, and it is divided horizontally into two parts, bearing the proportionate heights just mentioned.* The lower part projects
before the higher, and represents a bastion wall, separated into seven divisions by projecting turrets with pyramidal tops, exceeding
a little the height of the wall. The apertures for missile weapons of defence are marked in each of the turrets. The two arched
doors appear in the middle division of this wall, and one arched door in each of the extreme divisions. The upper part of the
diadem, which recedes a little, so as to clear a top of the wall and of the turrets, was ornamented with seven embossed figures,
placed under the seven arches, the abutments of which are heads of genii. The central arch, and the figure that was within it, are
destroyed, but the other six are filled with a repetition of the following three groups:–A. Venus, sitting upon a marine monster;
before her a draped figure with wings, bearing a wreath and a palm branch, and behind her a triton, whose lower part terminates
in tails of fishes. Two serpents are represented on each side of the face, near the ears, from whence the bodies of these reptiles
surround each cheek, and are joined under the chin. The union of various characters recals the pantheic representations of the
goddess Isis; and when the accompaniments of the work are attentively considered, I am persuaded they will be found to represent
the goddess in her generating, preserving, and destroying capacities, which primitively constituted her universal dominion, and
characterised her as the Dea Triformis.” -
Britain was soon after this period divided into two consular provinces, Maxima Caesariensis and
Valentia, and into three praesidial districts—Britannia Prima, Britannia Secunda, and Flavia Caesariensis.”
This division was probably made in the reign of Valentinian, after the memorable victory obtained by
Theodosius over the united power of the Picts and the Scots; and Lancashire came under the consular
goverment of Valentia, as forming part of that province. From this period the Roman power rapidly
declined, and the empire was menaced with desolation by the continental barbarians. The inhabitants and
troops that were quartered in Britain, fearing lest the Vandals should pass over the sea, and subdue them
with the rest, revolted from their obedience to Honorius, and set up One Mark, whom they declared
emperor; but they soon deprived him of his dignity and his life, placing Gratian in his room, who was a
countryman of their own. Within four months they murdered him also, and conferred the sovereignty
upon One Constantine, not so much in respect to his courage or his quality, for he was a very inconsiderable
man in the army, but in regard to his name, which they looked upon as fortunate ; hoping he would do as
much as Constantine the Great had done, who had been advanced to the imperial dignity in the same island.
This new prince, immediately after his promotion, passed over into Gaul, and, taking with him the very
flower of the British youth, so utterly exhausted the military force of the island, that it was wholly broken,
and the island left naked to her invaders (A.D. 448).” Britain, being thus deprived both of the Roman
soldiers and of the most vigorous part of her own population, became an easy prey to the incursions of
the northern invaders, the Picts and Scots, to whose inroads the county of Lancaster was peculiarly exposed.
The wall of Severus, though it stretched across the island, and was built of Solid stone, twelve feet in
height and eight feet in thickness, and though it was strengthened by fortresses well supplied with
munitions of war, no longer formed a barrier against the inroads of the enemy.
The country was garrisoned, and the conquest principally achieved and maintained, during the four
centuries that Britain was subject to the Roman sway, by three out of the twenty-nine Roman legions,
namely—Legio II. ; Legio VI, Victrix, principally stationed in the Brigantian capital of Eboracum (York);
and Legio XX, usually called Valens Victrix (mighty and victorious), long stationed at Chester.”
The manufacture of woollens was introduced into England, and probably into Lancashire, at an early
period of the Roman conquest, and the luxury of dress soon succeeded the painting of the body. After-ages
have increased and perfected these useful fabrics, and the ancient country of the Brigantes is still the
most famous of all the districts of England for this invaluable production of the loom. The religion of
the Romans consisted, till after their final departure from Britain, of the idolatry of the Pantheon, though
the light of Christianity began to dispel the mist of heathenism during the reign of Constantius Chlorus,
* From Subsequent information, it is ascertained that a Sphinx * Notitia. * Echard, vol. iii. pp. 272, 273.
was found with these remains, which the person who discovered * Ammianus Marcellinus, lib. xxvii. c. 8.
them omitted to deliver to Mr. Townley, but which, it is judged, * A Roman legion, when full, consisted of about 6000 infantry
served to decorate the top of the helmet. and 400 cavalry.
CHAP, I. (Liſt £istory of £antagjire. 7
the father of Constantine the Great. Constantius erected the first episcopal see in Britain, and the seat
of that high dignity was at Eboracum." Constantine not only favoured the Christian doctrine, but, to
display his attachment to Christianity, he stamped upon his coins the emblem of the Cross, A.D. 311.
The progress of the true faith was, however, continually retarded by the wars, with which this country
was distracted, and it was not till a later period of British history that the great body of the nation
could be called Christians. The lapse of sixteen centuries, during which time fifty generations of men
have passed over the stage of time, though it has consigned to destruction numberless Roman remains,
has served to bring to light a great mass of antiquities in the stations of Lancashire. Hence in Manchester,
and in Lancaster, we have altars, statues, coins, and medals; and in Ribchester, a rich collection of
antiquities, consisting of masks, helmets, and domestic utensils, serves to show that this retired village
was once an abode of the conquerors of the World.
* Burton's Monasticon, p. 6.
8 - (Iije Đistory of £amtāājire. CHAP. II.
CHAPTER II.
The Saxon Period—Invasions, Conquests, and Short Rule of the Danes—Termination of the Saxon and Danish Dynasties
- of England—the Norman Conquest.—A.D. 448 to 1066.
iº
county and this country were occupied by the Romans, was almost obliterated by the six
centuries which succeeded, of invasion from without and discord within the island. One
A redeeming event served, however, to dispel the night of heathen darkness; and the general
tº introduction of Christianity, perverted and contaminated though it was by superstition and
fº Sºx' error, irradiated the gloom of the Saxon, the Danish, and the Norman dominion. So fair
a country as Britain, suddenly abandoned by its Roman conquerors, and possessed by a people without union
in the governments, and without reliance upon themselves, naturally became a prize for foreign competition;
and the struggles for independence were rather the transient and convulsive efforts of despair, than the
dauntless energies of patriotic confidence. The ships which transported the legionaries of Rome from the
shores of Britain had scarcely weighed anchor, when the invading hordes of Scots and Picts dislodged the
British troops from their fortresses, and, forcing a passage through, or passing round, the Roman wall,
penetrated into the counties of Cumberland and Lancaster, and even to the gates of York, from whence they
menaced the other parts of the island. The state of the country at that time, as described by one of the
earliest British historians, serves to show that considerable progress had been made in the arts, in
commerce, and in agriculture; and that the people no longer painted their bodies, or depended for their food
on the precarious resources of the chase.
“The island of Britain,” says this ecclesiastic, “800 miles in length and 200 in breadth, embraced by the embowed bosoms of
the ocean, with whose most spacious, and on every side impassable enclosure, she is strongly defended, enriched with the mouths
of noble floods, by which outlandish commodities have in times past been transported into the same, besides other rivers of lesser
account ; strengthened with eight-and-twenty cities, and some other castles, not meanly fenced with fortresses of walls, embattled
towers, gates, and buildings (whose roofs, being raised aloft with threatening hugeness, were mighty in the aspiring tops
compacted), adorned with her large spreading fields, pleasantly seated hills, even framed for good husbandry, which ever mastereth
the ground, and mountains most convenient for the changeable pastures of cattle ; watered with clear fountains and Sundry brooks,
beating on the snow-white sands; together with silver streams gliding forth with soft sounding noise, and leaving a pledge of sweet
savours on bordering banks, and lakes gushing out abundantly in cold running rivers.”
This description of the wealth of Britain, and of its scenery, drawn thirteen hundred years ago, was
doubtless applicable to the county of Lancaster at the time of the departure of the Romans.
“After this,” continues our author, “Britain being now despoiled of all armed soldiers, and of her own brave and valorous
youth (who quitted the island along with the Romans, never returning to their homes), and absolutely ignorant of all practice of
war, was trampled many years under the feet of two very fierce outlandish nations—the Scots and the Picts. Upon whose invasion,
and most terrible oppression, she sent ambassadors, furnished with letters, to Rome, humbly beseeching, with piteous prayers, the
hosts of soldiers to redress her wrongs, and vowing with the whole power of her mind her everlasting subjection to the Roman
empire, if they would allow their soldiers to return, and to chase away their foes. These letters were indicted to this purpose,_
* The Lamentations of the Britons unto Agitius, thrice Consul.’ ‘The barbarians drive us to the sea, the sea drives us back to the
barbarians. Thus, of two kinds of death, one or other must be our choice, either to be swallowed up by the waves, or butchered
by the sword.’ In this deplorable condition, no relief could be afforded by the Romans; the Goths were at their own gates; and
to aggravate the miseries of the Britons, a dreadful famine raged in the ravished country, which obliged many of them to yield
their necks to the yoke of the invaders for a little food; and those who had too much constancy to submit to this humiliation were
constrained to seek refuge in the mountains, or to conceal themselves in caves and thickets.”
Repulsed by the Roman government, and without confidence in their own strength, the Britons sought
assistance from the Saxons, a nation of warriors and pirates. The military renown of these people pointed
them out as the most efficient of auxiliaries, while their ambition and their avarice made them in reality the
most dangerous of allies. To avert a present danger, ambassadors were sent to the heads of their
government, and to this urgent invitation the chiefs of the Saxons replied:—“Know ye, that the Saxons
will be fast friends to the Britons, and ready at all times to assist them in their necessity, for a suitable
return ; with joy, therefore, embark again for your country, and make your countrymen glad with these good
tidings.” The Saxons were confederated tribes, consisting of the Angles (and hence Anglo-Saxons), the
Jutes, and the genuine Saxons." They were settled on the shores of the German Ocean, and extended from
the Eyder to the Rhine. The etymology of their name is involved in the obscurity of remote antiquity.
* Gildas. - * Epist. of Gildas, cap. i. * Epist. of Gildas, cap. xvii.
* With these, it is supposed, were some bodies of Friesians,—H.


chAP. II. ~ Oſije #igtorg of £ancašijire. 9
Their leaders are supposed to have bequeathed the appellation to their followers. The first Saxon expedition
to England, which consisted of 1000 soldiers, embarked in three vessels, called Cyula, or Ceols, composed of
hides, under the command of Hengist and Horsa, the latter serving under the former, and both being in the
fourth generation from Woden, one of the principal gods of the Saxons. On their arrival in England, they
were directed by Wortigern, the British king, to march against the enemy, then spread over the greatest part
of the country of the Brigantes; and on their arrival in the neighbourhood of York, a bloody engagement
took place, by which the Picts and the Scots were driven out of Lancashire and Yorkshire, and compelled to
take refuge within their own borders. The Saxon generals, disinclined to finish the campaign by a single
battle, neglected to follow up this victory, and their troops remained in York and in Manchester, to recover
from the fatigues of their journey, and to recruit their numbers with fresh levies. Vortigern, held by the
double tie of gratitude to Hengist and love to his fascinating daughter Rowena [Rumwen], became insensible
to the danger that menaced his country, and the king closed his eyes to those dangerous designs of ambition
in his foreign auxiliaries, which every day became more manifest to his people. Having possession of
Manchester and York, the Saxons sent for a further supply of troops from Germany, which speedily arrived
in seventeen ceols, and were encamped in the Isle of Thanet. This measure naturally increased the suspicion
of the Britons, and they expressed their displeasure, by refusing to provide for the fresh levies. A proclama-
tion, commanding them to quit the country, immediately followed, at which Hengist took deadly offence;
and the Saxons, who had come to expel invaders, now assumed themselves the character of open enemies.
Further reinforcements, under the command of Octa, the son of Hengist, and Ebissa, the son of Octa, soon
after arrived, and marched to the north, spreading themselves over the Brigantian districts, which were soon
to assume another name. The demands of the Saxons rose with the concessions of the Britons; and it at
length became clear, that nothing short of the full possession of this fair island would allay the cravings of
their ambition and cupidity. Disgusted with the blindness and effeminacy of Vortigern, his people drove
him from his throne, and Vortimer, his son, reigned in his stead. After several battles between the Britons
and the Saxons, fought with various success, in one of which Vortimer fell, Vortigern again ascended the
throne, and Hengist demanded a conference between the Saxon chiefs and the British nobility, to arrange
terms, as was alleged, for the Saxons quitting the kingdom. This meeting took place upon the plain of
Ambrij, now called Salisbury Plain. The unsuspecting Britons came unarmed, but the perfidious Saxons
had each a short skeine concealed under his cassock. After the conference, the horns of festivity went
round, till the spirits of the assembly had become exhilarated, when, at the terrible exclamation of “Nemed
Saxes,” out rushed the Saxon weapons; the unarmed Britons fell before the perfidious assassins, and three
hundred of the bravest chiefs and the most elevated men of the country perished on the spot.” Hengist now
possessed himself of the southern part of the island, which he erected into a principality, under the designation
of the Kingdom of Kent, while Octa and Ebissa remained settled in Northumbria. The fortunes of the
Britons were partially retrieved by Aurelius Ambrosius, a Briton of Roman extraction. Under his direction
the military spirit of his countrymen was roused into action, and after marching from Totness at the head of
a formidable force, accompanied by Uther, his brother, surnamed Pendragon, he arrived before the gates of
York, when he summoned Octa to surrender. A council of war being called, it was determined by the
Saxons to surrender at discretion, and to cast themselves upon the clemency of the Britons. Ambrosius
granted a free pardon to the invaders, and, instead of shipping them out of the country, he assigned to them
a district on the borders of Scotland. Ebissa, who had probably occupied Manchester while Octa was
stationed in York, encouraged by the success of his kinsman's appeal to the conqueror's clemency, came and
surrendered himself in the same manner, and met with a similar reception. The gratitude of the Saxons did
not outlive their merciful conqueror. On the death of Ambrosius, who was succeeded by Uther the
Pendragon (A.D. 449), Octa and Ebissa revolted, and issued from their northern retreat, by the route of
Overborough and Walton le Dale, both which places they took, as well as Manchester and Warrington. On
their arrival before York an obstinate battle took place under the walls of that city, which ended in the
defeat and capture of the two ingrates."
The son and successor of Uther, born of Lady Igren, Duchess of Cornwall, was the renowned King
Arthur (A.D. 467). Trained to arms by Ambrosius, under whose commission he for some time fought,” and
animated by the wrongs of the Britons, over whom he was appointed to reign, he became himself the leader
of their wars, and in all of them he came off conqueror. The first of his battles was fought at the mouth of
the river called the Glem. The second, third, fourth, and fifth, upon another river called the Douglas, in the
territory of Linuis. The sixth was on a stream which bears the name of Bassas. The seventh was in the
wood of Caledon. The eighth was at Castle Guinnion (or Caer-wen). The ninth at the city of Legion
(Chester). The tenth on the banks of the river Ribroit. The eleventh on the hill Agned Cathregonion; and
the twelfth at Mount Badon" (Bath). The history of this distinguished warrior is mixed up with so much
* Nennius, cap. xxviii. [really from Gildas]. 8 Nennius, c. xlviii.
* About A.D. 428, according to Dr. D. H. Haigh's Conquest of 4 Geof. Mon. Polichron, etc.
Britain by the Saaºons.—H. - 9 Malmesbury, f. 4. * Nennius, capp. lxv. lxvi.
C
10 Ciſc 3:?igtúrg of 3Lancašjire. CHAP. II.
romance as to render it extremely difficult to separate truth from fiction. The ingenuity and research of Mr.
Whitaker, the historian of Manchester, have placed this subject in so strong and interesting a light, in the
second chapter of his Saxon History of Manchester, that it may be quoted with advantage, with the exception
of those passages for which the public is indebted more to the vigorous imagination of the author than to
historical evidence.
“The second, third, fourth, and fifth battles of Arthur are supposed to have been fought in our own county (Lancashire), and
upon the banks of our little Douglas... And the name of the river concurs with the tradition concerning Arthur, and three battles
prove the notion true. On the traditionary scene of this engagement remained, till the year 1770, a considerable British barrow,
popularly denominated Hasty-Knoll. It was originally a vast collection of small stones taken from the bed of the Douglas; and
great quantities had been successively carried away, by the neighbouring inhabitants. Many fragments of iron had been also
occasionally discovered in it, together with remains of those military weapons which the Britons interred with their heroes at death.
On finally levelling the barrow, there was found a cavity, in the gravel immediately under the stones, about seven feet in length,
the evident grave of the British officer, and all filled with the loose and blackish earth of his perished remains. At another place,
near Wigan, was discovered, about the year 1741, a large collection of horse and human bones, and an amazing quantity of horse
shoes, scattered over a large extent of ground—an evidence of some important battle upon the spot. The very appellation of Wigan
is a standing memorial of more than one battle at that place; Wig signifying, in Saxon, a fight, and Wig-en, being its plural.
According to tradition, the first battle fought near Blackrod was uncommonly bloody, and the Douglas was crimsoned with blood to
Wigan. Tradition and remains concur to evince the fact that a second battle was fought near Wigan-lane many ages before the
rencounter in the civil wars. The defeated Saxons appear to have crossed the hill of Wigan, where another engagement or engage-
ments ensued; and in forming the canal there, about the year 1735, the Workmen discovered evident indications of a considerable
|battle on the ground. All along the course of the channel from the termination of the Dock to the point of Pool-bridge, from forty
to fifty roods in length, and seven or eight yards in breadth, they found the ground everywhere containing the remains of men and
horses. In making the excavations, a large old spur, carrying a stem four or five inches in length, and a rowel as large as a half-
crown, was dug up ; and five or six hundredweight of horse-shoes were collected. The point of land on the south side of the
Douglas, which lies immediately fronting the scene of the last engagement, is now denominated the Parson's meadow ; and tradition
reports a battle to have been fought in it. The dispirited Saxons fell before the Superior bravery and dauntless spirit of the Britons.
These four battles were fought upon the river Douglas, and in the region Linuis. In this district was the whole course of the
current, from its source to its conclusion, and the words “super flumen quod vocatur Douglas, quod est in Linuis” (upon the river
called Douglas, which is in Linuis), show the stream to have been less known than the region. This was therefore considerable;
one of the cantreds or great divisions of the Sistuntian kingdom, and comprised, perhaps, the western half of south Lancashire.
From its appellation of Linuis, or the Lake, it seems to have assumed the denomination from the Mere of Marton, which was once
the most considerable object within it, and was traversed by the Romans in canoes of a single tree.” Thus by four successive
victories had Arthur subdued the great army of the Saxons, which had so often beaten the Britons of the north, and then held the
Sistuntii in bondage. But Lancashire was not yet entirely delivered. The castles which had been previously erected there by the
provincials, would naturally be garrisoned by the Saxons on their conquest of the country, and the towns and their vicinities more
immediately bridled by their barbarous oppreessors. Tradition asserts Manchester to have been thus circumstanced in particular at
this period.”
Here, in the Castle-field, according to our authority, stood the Roman castle, now occupied by the
Saxon commander Sir Torquin, who was not expelled till after two desperate attempts to carry the
fortress, in which the Britons at length succeeded, and Torquin fell before the victors. The traditions of
Lancashire still cherish and uphold the memory of Sir Torquin, the lord of the castle, and the knights of
the Round Table, many of whom fell within the tyrant's toils, till Sir Lancelot du Lake slew the
sanguinary knight, and liberated his captives. The last of Arthur's victories was achieved at the battle
of Badon Mount ; and Mr. Whitaker contends that these memorable engagements not only checked the
progress of Cerdic, but annihilated the Saxon army, and that a long interval of repose, extending through
seventy years, followed. It appears, however, from the Saxon chronicles, that Cerdic died in the year
534 [515 or 516], “and was succeeded by his son Cynic [Creoda, or his grandson Cyneric] in the
government of Wessex; and that he,” in the peculiar language of these chronicles, “reigned afterwards
twenty-six winters.” It is also shown, from the history of our Anglo-Saxon ancestors, that Ella and Ida
reigned in Deira and Bernicia, within thirteen years from the death of Arthur, and that the Saxon conquests
gradually advanced, till all England was subdued, and erected into seven sovereign states, under the name of
the Heptarchy. The propriety of this appellation has been disputed, and the term Octarchy adopted in its
stead. The difference is capable of an easy explanation,-Northumbria being considered one kingdom
by the advocates for the Heptarchy, and two (that is, Deira and Bernicia,) by the supporters of the
Octarchical division. The seven kingdoms were—Sussex, Kent, Wessex, East Anglia, Essex, Mercia, and
Northumbria. This latter kingdom, which alone concerns the subject of this history, was occasionally
divided into two, under the names of Deira and Bernicia, but in its integrality it may be exhibited thus,
with the succession of its Saxon sovereign princes:—Northumberland consisted of the counties of Lancashire,
Yorkshire, Durham, Westmorland, Cumberland, Northumberland: and its kings were—1. Ella, or Ida;
2. Adda, or Elappea; 3. Theodwald ; 4. Fretnulse ; 5. Theodrick; 6. Ethelrick; 7. Ethelfrid; 8. Edwin;
9. Oswald; 10. Egfrid; 11. Alkfryd ; 12. Osred; 13. Kenred; 14. Oswick; 15. Ceolulph; 16. Egbert ;
17. Oswalph ; 18. Ediswald; 19. Elured; 20. Ethelred; 21. Alfwald, and 22. Osred.
This kingdom existed 379 years, dating its commencement from 547, and its desolation in 926. During
the Roman period, the largest portion of this county took its name from the Brigantes; but the Saxons,
from its local situation to the North of the Humber, changed its designation to “Northan Humber Londe,” or
1 Higden, p. 225. * Leigh's Lancashire, b. i. p. 18. * Whitaker's Manchester, vol. ii. b. ii. c. 2.
CHAP. II, Çſt £istorg of 3Lancashire. II.
Northumberland. The Saxon inhabitants of this kingdom were the Angles, who arrived from Anglia," or
Angloen, in Pomerania, as early as the year 449 [428], though their kingdom of Northumberland was not
established till one hundred years after that date. It has been conjectured that Mercia included Deira, or
that the country between the Mersey and the Ribble was within the Mercian territory. But the preponder-
ance of evidence is in favour of the more generally recognised limits; namely, that the Humber and the
Mersey to the South, and the Eden and the Tyne to the north, formed the Northumbrian boundary; and
that when this kingdom was divided, the kingdom of Deira consisted of the counties of Lancaster, York,
Westmorland, Cumberland, and Durham, precisely the ancient Brigantine limits, while Bernicia comprehended
Northumberland and the south of Scotland between the Tweed and the Firth of Forth. The system of
government established by our Saxon ancestors had in it the germ of freedom, if it did not always exhibit
the fruits. In religion they were idolaters, and when they settled in Britain, their idols, altars, and temples
soon overspread the country. They had a god for every day in the week. Thor, or Thur, represented Thurs-
day; Woden conferred his name on Wednesday; Friga presided over Friday; Seater over Saturday ; and
Tuisco, the tutelar god of the Germans, conferred his name on Tuesday. The attributes of the first four of
these deities corresponded with those of the Roman deities, Jupiter, Mars, Venus, and Saturn ; Tuisco's parallel
was Mercury; the Saxons had also their Ermenseul, who, like Mercury, was the bestower of wit ; and Heile,
a sort of Æsculapius, the preserver and restorer of health. Besides these gods, the Saxons worshipped the
sun and the moon, who each conferred a name on one of the days of the week; Sunnan on Sunday, and
Monan on Monday. The people worshipped the statues of these gods. THOR, the Supreme, was seated on a
throne, and on either side of him stood WODEN and FRIGA (husband and wife). Thor, according to the pre-
vailing Superstition, bore rule in the air, and governed the thunder, the lightning, and the winds; he like-
wise directed the weather and regulated the seasons, giving plenty or inflicting famine at his will. Woden
made war, and ministered rigour against enemies; while Friga bestowed upon mortals peace and pleasure.
So gross was the Saxon Superstition, and so strong their incentives to war, that they believed if they
obtained the favour of Woden by their valour, they should be admitted after death into his hall, and, reposing
on couches, should satiate themselves with ale from the skulls of their enemies whom they had slain in battle !
This beverage was in high esteem amongst them; and Eoster, to whom they sacrificed in the month of April,
gave the name to Easter, by which the festival of the resurrection is designated in the Christian system.
The Saxon women were not allowed to contract a second marriage, and a similar restriction applied to the
men, except those in elevated stations who were childless; for, amongst such, “to be without children was
to be without reputation.” The most dismal feature of their superstition was the custom which they had in
war, after a successful enterprise, of selecting by lot, and sacrificing, one-tenth of their captives to their san-
guinary gods. In this spirit they offered human sacrifices to obtain success in battle. Before the arrival of
the Saxons, Christianity had taken root in England, and spread its healing branches over the whole land,
recommending itself even to the Roman legionaries; but the invasion of the Saxon infidels for a time
obscured, if it did not extinguish, the light of the gospel in Britain ; and both Gildas and Bede concur in
representing the Saxons, at that period, as a nation “odious both to God and man,” the subverters of altars,
and the enemies of the priesthood. Before Gregory, surnamed the Great, had attained the pontifical chair,
he formed the pious design of undertaking the conversion of the Saxon Britons. Observing in the market-
place at Rome a number of Saxon youths exposed to sale, whom the Roman merchants in their trading voy-
ages had bought from their British parents, and, being struck with their beauty, he inquired to what country
they belonged, and was told they were Angles, from the kingdom of Deira. Moved by the same spirit that
now actuates so many of the people of England towards the heathen nations, he determined himself to under-
take a mission to Britain, to convert the heathen of that country. The popular favour of the monk disin-
clined the people to allow him to be exposed to so much danger in person; but no sooner had he assumed
the purple, than he resolved to fulfil his benevolent design towards the Britons, and he pitched upon two
Roman monks, Augustine and Paulinus, to preach the gospel in that island. In the year 596, Augustine, at
the head of about forty missionaries, embarked from Italy, and landed in the Isle of Thanet. Their arrival
was immediately announced to Ethelbert, king of Kent, who, with all his subjects, received the faith of the
cross. In 604 the neighbouring East Saxons were proselytised ; in 627 the East Angles adopted the Chris-
tian faith; and in the following year the example extended to Mercia. Thus the flame spread from king-
dom. to kingdom, till the whole heptarchy had become Christian. Edwin, the king of Northumbria, one of
the best and the wisest of the Saxon sovereigns, having married Ethelburga, a Christian princess, received
Paulinus with distinguished favour; and in the year 627 he was consecrated archbishop of the Northum-
brians. Edwin himself embraced the Christian religion with his whole court ; and on Easter Sunday, in the
year 627, the king and his nobles were all baptized at York. The great body of the people followed the
example of their sovereign and his barons, and in one day 10,000 persons were baptized by Paulinus in the
river Swale, since designated the Northumbrian Jordan. Christianity now became the prevailing religion.
The people of Lancashire, like those of Yorkshire, embraced the true religion. The venerable Paulinus was
* Saxon Chronicle, A.D. 449. * Sid. Apoll. Epist. vi. 1. 8. * Gildas, Brit. Epist. xxiii.; Bede 1. i. 22.
12 The #istorg of £ancashire. CHAP. II.
indefatigable here, in the discharge of the duties of his mission; and the waters of the Ribble, as well as
those of the Swale, were resorted to for the baptism of his converts. From that period to the present,
Christianity has continued to maintain its ascendency in the northern parts of Britain; and in 678 the
South Saxons, who were the last of the states to bow down to idols, discarded their superstitions, and became
the worshippers of the only true God. Paulinus was consecrated first archbishop of York; he died in the
year 644. The British churches, which the Saxons had not demolished, had fallen into decay; but they
were now repaired, and the heathen temples were many of them converted into places of Christian Worship,
with appropriate dedications; and the Saxon churches in London, York, and Manchester, were distinguished
by the names of St. Paul, St. Peter, and St. Mary. The feasts of dedication were instituted to preserve the
memory of the consecration of the churches; and these annual festivals, which commenced in the evening
preceding the celebration of the dedication, were called church wakes, which have gradually assumed a secular
character, and are now ranked amongst the village festivals of Lancashire.
Coeval with the churches, a number of castles were also erected, or re-edified; and it is conjectured
that not fewer than twelve considerable ones arose south of the Ribble—Wall-ey, Wal-ton, Child-wall, and
Win-wick, Black-stone, Seph-ton, Stan-dish, and Pen-wortham, Wig-an, Roch-dale, Middle-ton, and Berry.
These were, probably, the seats of twelve Saxon chiefs, before the institution of parishes; and, therefore, the
seats of as many parochial churches.” Edwin survived his conversion only six years, having fallen in a
sanguinary battle fought with Penda, the Mercian, and Cadwallan, the Cambrian, at Hethfield, where his
whole army was put to the sword. The ancient kingdom of Northumberland revived on the death of Edwin,
in the person of Oswald, his successor; of which king it is said, that though his power extended to three
kingdoms, “he was lowly to all, gracious to the poor, and bountiful to strangers.” Under the force of his
arms Cadwallan fell, and the flower of his army perished. The victories of Oswald served but to inflame
the resentment of the pagan Penda, king of Mercia, who fought against him and slew him at Mirfield, in the
West Riding of Yorkshire, according to the Saxon Chronicles,” or, according to the venerable Bede, at Win-
wick, in the county of Lancaster. For some years, the people of Lancashire, with the rest of their fellow-
subjects of the kingdom of Deira, had been in a state of constant hostility with their ancient allies and
neighbours, the people of Bernicia; but by the mild and enlightened rule of Oswald, their differences were
reconciled, and they united in allegiance to one sovereign.
A new era was now opening in the ecclesiastical history of this province, the effects of which were to
be felt through a long series of ages, and to influence in no small degree the future interests of the nation.
Monastic institutions began to prevail in Northumbria about the middle of the seventh century, under the
fostering hand of that distinguished prelate Wilfrid, sole bishop of Northumberland; and in a few years
numbers of monasteries and nunneries sprang up in Lancashire and other parts of the province. The
practice of introducing relics into the churches belongs also to this age, and innumerable were the pilgrimages
made to Rome and to the venerable places which had been hallowed by the blood of the martyrs, to collect
the remains of the Saints. By the constitution of the western churches, the pope was invested with a
patriarchal authority over them ; but the Britons had hitherto never acknowledged the pontifical jurisdiction,
He was now, however, requested to confirm the immunities of religious houses, which had been previously
ratified by the king, and Wyre mouth was the first that received the papal confirmation." Theodore, the arch-
bishop of Canterbury, having long seen the necessity for affording to the people some more extensive means
of religious instruction than they at that time possessed, and for dividing such of the bishoprics as were too
large for the proper discharge of the episcopal duties, recommended to the king to convene a synod in 678,
at which Egfrid and his Saxon barons were present. By this august assembly it was provided, by an unani-
mous decision, that as the number of Christians was daily increasing, new sees should be erected; and, as
if in anticipation of some formidable opposition, a declaration was appended to the decrees, to the effect that
whoever presumed to violate them should be degraded of his sacerdotal office and excommunicated." In
virtue of these canons, the bishopric of the East Angles was divided into two, and the dominions of the
Mercians, which lay beyond the Severn, were assigned to the new see of Hereford. Wilfrid still remained
the sole bishop amongst the Northumbrians, and his diocese reached from the Firth of Forth to the Humber,
on the east of the kingdom, and from the Firth of Clyde to the Mersey, on the west. No prelate in these
early days had aggrandised the church so much as Wilfrid. With influence almost unbounded in all parts of
'the kingdom, and amongst all the upper classes, from the greatest to the humblest of the Saxon barons, he
was enabled to procure manors and lordships for the erection and endowments of churches; and in his time
the precedent was first established of alienating the demesnes of the crown to augment the revenues of the
church. Wilfrid was munificent and ostentatious, affable and accomplished, ambitious and intractable, pious
but proud. By one of the decrees of the synod, it was directed that the bishopric of this prelate should be
divided into two, Deira and Bernicia, of which York was to be the capital of one, and Hexham of the other.
The haughty spirit of the prelate was wounded by this partition, which he did not hesitate to designate as
1 Domesday Book, fo. 270. * Bede, lib. ii, cap. 9. s. 3. * Sax. Chron. A.D. 642.
4 Bede, lib. iv. c. 18. * Bede, lib. iv. c. 5. -
CHAP. II. - Qſìje 3%istory of 3Lancašijire. 13
an unjust spoliation. After in vain attempting to induce the king and the archbishop of Canterbury to
repeal the synod's decision, Wilfrid appealed to the pope in person, whose mandate for his restoration to
the whole of the former bishopric was rejected by a convocation of all the English bishops; Wilfrid was
deprived, but, after a contest of twenty-seven years, was reinstated in the see of Hexham ; but the Saxon
bishops refused to admit the authority of the Roman pontiff in any affairs relating to the British churches.
When the angry passions excited by this controversy had subsided, the pontifical claim was again advanced,
and, in the middle of the eighth century, the Roman see was authoritatively declared, in the canons of
Northumbria, to be the court of appeal in all ecclesiastical differences. Although the Britons had lived
securely in Furness, relying upon the fortifications with which nature had guarded them, nothing proved
impregnable to the Saxon conquerors; for it appears that in the early part of the reign of Egfrid, king of
Northumberland, that monarch “gave St. Cuthbert the land called Carthmell, and all the Britons in it.”
Bede, or Beda, a native of our kingdom of Northumbria, died in 734, after a life of unparalleled literary
labours. This venerable ecclesiastic, who was born in the year 672, ranks the first in the number of early
British historians, though his works are marred by legendary tales, which serve to show that his mind was
not free from the superstitions which for so many ages afterwards prevailed in the county of Lancaster, to
an extent scarcely equalled in any other part of the kingdom. In the time of Bede, but in what exact year
is not ascertained, the ecclesiastical divisions of parishes were first established, and before the middle of the
seventh century, and within twenty-five years from the conversion of the Saxon inhabitants of Northumbria
to the Christian faith, churches were erected in the various districts of this county, to which ministers were
appointed to dispense the ordinances of religion.
The Saxon heptarchy was now drawing towards its termination. Ambition agitated all parts of the
country by its conflicts, and the face of nature seemed to sympathise with the general disorder. Dreadful
forewarnings came over Lancashire and the other parts of the land of the Northumbrians,” which excited
general terror amongst the people. Storms were soon followed by
“a great famine; and not long after, on the sixth day before the ides of January (793), the harrowing of heathen-men (the Danes)
made lamentable havock in the Church of God.” “In the year 798.” (adds the Saxon Chronicle) “a severe battle was fought in the
Northumbrian territory during Lent, on the fourth day before the nones of April, at Whalley; wherein. Alric, the son of Herbert,
was slain, and many others with him.” This is the first time in which the parish of Whalley is mentioned in civil history. Simeon
of. Durham writes:– “A league or confederacy was made by the murderers of King Ethelred. Wada, leader in that league, went
with his forces to fight against Eardulph the king in a place called by the English Billangahoh, near Whalley, and many were slain
on both sides; and Wada the leader fled with his troops.”4
Egbert, the son of Alcmund, king of Wessex, having mounted the throne of his ancestors, penetrated
successively into Devonshire and Cornwall, and ravaged the country from east to west. After the conquest
of Mercia, Egbert marched against Eanred, king of the Northumbrians; but this prince, feeling that resistance
was hopeless, acknowledged his superiority, and the whole Anglo-Saxon heptarchy merged in the kingdom of
Wessex, under the sway of Egbert, the founder of the feudal system in England.” Before Egbert ascended
the throne, the Northmen had commenced their attacks upon Britain ; and so early as 787 a small expedition
landed at Teignmouth, in Devonshire. The invaders were principally from the promontory of Denmark, the
Cambrica Chersonesus of Tacitus. In 794, a more formidable armament effected a landing in Britain, and
spread devastation amongst the Northumbrians, plundering the monastery of King Everth, at the entrance to
the Wear. The resistance made to the invaders was so determined, that some of their leaders were slain ;
several of their ships were shattered by the violence of a storm; and such of the invaders as escaped the fury
of the waves, fell by the sword. The following year, Erdulf, the viceroy or king of Northumbria, ascended
the throne, and was consecrated in the capital of York." In A.D. 800 Northumbria was again subjected to a
Danish visitation, and the immediate cause of this invasion is said to have been this: Osbert, the viceroy of
Ethelred, having violated the wife of the Earl Bruen Bocard, the latter invited Godericke, the king of Den-
mark, to take possession of the country. Godericke received this invitation with great alacrity, and dispatched
a strong armament, under Ingwar and Hubba, to Britain. On their arrival in Northumbria, on the coast of
Holderness, the Danes fell upon the inhabitants with the utmost fury, and massacred all before them, without
regard to age, sex, or condition. Marching on to York, they took possession of that city, and slew Osbert,
the tyrant, by whose lust his country had been involved in so much ruin. Emboldened by their success in
the north, they advanced into Norfolk, and demanded of Edmund, the king of the West Saxons, that he
should surrender his throne. With this insolent summons he refused to comply ; on which a bloody battle
ensued, at Thetford, which ended in the overthrow of the Saxons, and in the execution of their king, who
I Camden’s Brit. vol. iii. p. 380. ting off the first syllable the modern village of Langho. Of this
* At Wearmouth, in the bishopric of Durham. great battle there are, however, no remains, unless a large tumulus
3 Saxon Chron. A.D. 793. near Hacking Hall, and in the immediate vicinity of Langho, be
* Dr. Whitaker supposes Billange, or Billinge, to have been at supposed to cover the remains of Alric, or some other chieftain
that time the name of the whole ridge, extending from the mountain amongst the slain.—History of Whalley, book i. cap. iii. p. 31.
near Blackburn, now bearing that appellation, to Whalley. Bil- * Kuerden's MS. in Chetham's Library, Manchester, 4to, p.
langaton will, on that supposition, be the Orthography of Billington, 229.
and Billangohah, or the low hill by Billinge, will leave, after cut- 6 Sax, Chron.
14 Qſìſe ºffistory of 3Lancashire, CHAP. II.
because he would not abjure the Christian faith for the errors of paganism, was bound to a stake, and shot
by the arrows of the Danish invaders.' -
The situation of Lancashire, and of the other parts of Northumbria, must now have been most deplorable:
for forty years the war raged amongst them with various success; and Ella, the governor, like Osbert, fell by
the sword. Ethelred for a while kept the field, but at length his life and his power fell before the superior
discipline of the Danes. In the midst of these sanguinary conflicts, the clergy, resting their claim on the
Jewish law, insisted that a tenth of the produce of the land belonged to the priesthood under the Christian
dispensation: this claim, though long resisted, was at length admitted by Ethelwulf, for the honour of God,
and for his own everlasting salvation;” and it was further agreed that the revenues of the church should be
exempt from the burdens of the state. The Danes, in the fury of their warfare, laid waste every town and
place that resisted their sway; but their especial fury was directed against religious houses. The exactions
of the Danes made upon the impoverished people, advanced from £10,000 to £40,000 a-year, which sum in
those days was considered of enormous amount. Lancashire, and, no doubt, other parts of the island, were
in A.D. 869 visited by one of the most dreadful calamities to which mankind are subject, a severe famine,
and, its inevitable consequence, a mortality of cattle and of the human race.” Agriculture was but imperfectly
understood, and almost every district of the same kingdom was left to depend upon its own precarious
resources. The contest between the Anglo-Saxons and the Danes, in this and the neighbouring counties, had
withdrawn the husbandman from his employment; and, having neglected to sow, of course he had nothing to
reap. The consequence was, that not only many parts of these fair regions mourned in want, but they were
absolutely depopulated. Merciless and slow-consuming famine devoured its wretched victims, and the Small
share which might have fallen to the native inhabitants was consumed by the ruthless Danes, who, from
their principal station in York, spread like swarms of locusts across the island, from sea to sea. Both
Northumbria and East Anglia had now fallen under the sanguinary sword of the Danish invaders, who
began to aspire to the conquest of the whole island. Mercia next became the object of their attack, and
Ethelred, king of Wessex, fell in a battle fought with the invaders at Merton, Alfred was now advanced to
the throne of Wessex; but within a month of his elevation, he was attacked and defeated at Wilton." A
new swarm of the Danes soon after landed, under three of their princes, Guthrum, Oscitel, and Amund, and
proceeded into Northumbria, the favourite seat of their power. The husbandmen became the slaves of the
invaders, and the thanes were made subservient to their purposes of avarice and aggrandisement. The noble
spirit of Alfred bent beneath the storm, and, finding no security upon the throne, he withdrew from his
elevated station, and took up his residence in an obscure part of the kingdom, as a guest in the family of a
swineherd, where occurred the incident of his letting the cakes burn, The hospitable rustic, notwithstanding
the asperity of his wife's temper, obtained the favour of the king. By his advice he applied himself to
learning; and Alfred, on his return to power, acknowledged the obligation he had received, by elevating his
host from the shepherd's crook to the bishop's crosier, and afterwards made him bishop of Winchester.” The
humiliation of Alfred disciplined his temper, purified his heart, and served to enlighten his already profound
understanding. His measures to regain his throne, and to surround it with its only impregnable bulwark,
the love and confidence of the people, were judicious and exemplary. An auspicious incident at this juncture
occurred, to fortify his courage; for having, in the assumed character of a minstrel, observed the conduct of
the Danes in their encampments, he suddenly assembled a strong force, and inflicted a signal overthrow upon
the invaders, at Eddington, where the Danes were encamped. With a generosity equal to his bravery, he
gave them their lives, on the condition that they should, through their leader Guthrum, exchange paganism
for Christianity. Guthrum was permitted, with his followers, to colonise East Anglia, and the Northumbrians
were afterwards put under his rule. The sovereignty of Mercia, on the defeat of the Danes, fell into the
power of Alfred, and, without avowedly incorporating it with Wessex, he discontinued its regal honours, and
constituted Ethelred his military commander, to whom he afterwards married his daughter Ethelfleda. To
fortify his kingdom against hostile attacks, he rebuilt the cities and castles which had been destroyed by the
invaders; but his principal care was to construct a navy for the protection of the coast, and he has ever been
considered as the founder of the English marine. In Northumbria the Danes continued to govern till towards
the close of Alfred's reign, when Anarawd abandoned his power in that kingdom, and besought the friendship
of Alfred. The king received him hospitably; and, to confirm the good intentions that he had formed in
favour of the Christian faith, he became his sponsor in baptism, and his friend in all the relations of life.
The state of learning in Lancashire, in the ninth century, may be inferred from Alfred's own declaration—
“When I took the kingdom,” said he, “there were very few on the south side of the Humber, the most
improved part of England, who could understand their daily prayers in English, or translate a letter from the
Latin. I think there were not many beyond the Humber ; they were so few, that I cannot indeed recollect
one single instance on the south of the Thames, when I took the kingdom.” The encouragement given to
* The Danes, like the original Saxons, were idolaters ; their * Saxon Chron. A.D. 854. * Asser, 20.
principal god was Thor, and to him they offered human sacrifices. * Saxon Chron. A.D. 871. * Malmsb. p. 242.
6 Alfred's Preface, p. 82.
CHAP. II. The history of Lancashire. 15
learning by this enlightened and benevolent monarch was highly exemplary; he instituted schools for the
instruction of his nobles in reading and writing, much after the model of the Lancasterian schools of the
present day. The invasion of the Danes, and their predatory depredations, particularly in the county of
Lancaster, and the other parts of the kingdom of Northumbria, had almost destroyed the ancient police of
the kingdom. To remedy this disorganised state of society, Alfred changed the ancient provisional divisions
of England into counties, and the distribution of these into hundreds, which were again subdivided into
tenths or tithings. Under these divisions the population of the country has been ever since arranged; and
every person was directed to belong to some hundred or tithing (tenth), while every hundred and tithing
became pledged to the preservation of the public peace and security in their district, and were made
answerable for the conduct of their several inhabitants. In consequence of this arrangement, every criminal
accused was sure to be apprehended; and it may be supposed that in this part of the kingdom the number
of the lawless was at first very large.
In the division of Britain into counties, the south-western portion of the Brigantine territory of the
Romans, and of the Northumbrian Kingdom of the Saxons, was named Loncasterscyre or LOnceshire, from the
capital Loncaster, the castle on the Lone or Lune. South Lancashire was divided into six hundreds, which
have since undergone some alteration. The designation of each of these hundreds was derived from the
principal place in the division, in the reign of Alfred; and those names now serve to indicate the mutations to
which places as well as persons are exposed. The Lancashire hundreds of our Saxon ancestors were Derbei,
Newtone, Walintune (Warrington), Blackeburne, Salford, and Lailand. Of the names of the Lancashire
tithings we have no distinct remains; but the nearest approximation to them may be found in each ten of
our modern townships. Hitherto the administration of justice was confided to a species of provisional
prefects, but in the time of Alfred the functions of these officers were divided into those of judges and
sheriffs. The institution of juries belongs to the same period; and so tenacious was Alfred of the faithful
discharge of the judicial office in penal judgments, that he caused forty-four justices to be executed as
murderers, because they had exceeded their duty, and condemned to death unjustly the persons they judged."
Alfred compiled a code of laws (the DOM-BOC), which he enlarged with his own hand. Amongst his other legal
institutions, it is perfectly clear that he had none corresponding with our Court of Chancery, since it appears
that he hastened the decision of causes, and allowed no delay exceeding fifteen days.” Death deprived the
world of this great monarch in A.D. 900 at the age of fifty-two years. He was a pattern for kings in the time
of extremity; a bright star in the history of mankind. Living a century after Charlemagne, he was, perhaps,
a greater man, in a circle happily more limited."
In the century which succeeded the death of Alfred, there is little to relieve the contests of ambition,
which so generally prevailed. Lancashire and the whole Northumbrian territory had, by the clemency of
Alfred, become a species of Danish colony. There the resident Danes concocted their schemes of ambition
and aggression against the Saxon power; and, upon the shores of Yorkshire and of Lancashire, fresh swarms
of invaders effected their landing, and found Succour and support. Edward the Elder succeeded to the power
of his father; but his title was disputed by Ethelwald, son of King Ethelbert, who established his head-
quarters in York, and was joined by the Northumbrians in his rebellion. The insurgents, quitting their
stronghold in the north, marched into Kent, where a sanguinary battle ensued, and Ethelwald fell in the action,
when his followers sought their safety in flight. Unsubdued, though vanquished, the Northumbrians pene-
trated again into Wessex, where they were again defeated, and pursued with great slaughter into their own
country. Following up his successes, Edward subdued the two next princes of Northumberland, Reginald
and Sidoc, and acquired the dominion of that province. In his wars between the Mersey and the Humber,
the king was assisted by his sister Ethelfleda, the widow of Ethelbert, earl of Mercia, who, after her husband's
death, had retained the possession of the government of that province. This princess is extolled by the early
British historians as the wisest lady in Britain, the very emblem of her illustrious father Alfred ; and to her
munificence the Mercians were indebted for the rebuilding of the city of Chester, while her royal brother built
the ancient city of Thelwall, on the southern bank of the Mersey, and placed a garrison there." The more
effectually to maintain his dominion over the province of Northumbria, the king collected an army in Mercia,
which he ordered to march to Manchester, which place he repaired and garrisoned."
In the excess of antiquarian disputation, a controversy has arisen, whether, in the era of the Saxon
heptarchy, the country between the Mersey and the Ribble, comprehending the southern part of Lancashire,
was included in the kingdom of Northumbria; and Dr. Whitaker maintains that this district, under the
heptarchy, formed a portion, not of Northumbria, but of Mercia. To this assertion are opposed the generally-
received opinion, that the kingdom of Mercia was terminated on its north-western boundary by the river
Mersey; and the positive fact, that in the Saxon Chronicle, the highest existing authority perhaps upon this
subject, Manchester is said to be in Northumbria. The passage is conclusive upon this point —“This year
(A.D. 923) went King Edward with an army, late in the harvest, to Thelwall; and ordered the borough to be
+ Mirroir des Justices, cap. ii. Sec. 3. - * Herder's Outlines, p. 245.
* Mirroir, p. 245. * Saxon Chron, A.D. 923.
16 (The 39tgtorg of £artcagüire. CHAP. II.
repaired, and inhabited, and manned. And he ordered another army also from the population of Mercia, the
while he sat there, to go to Manchester, in Northumbria, to repair and to man it.” -
The ascendency of the Danish power in Northumbria, owing to their colonisation in that kingdom by
Alfred, subjected this part of Britain to a frequent recurrence of the horrors of war when all the other parts
of the island were at peace. In order to extinguish the spirit of rebellion, and to give security to his throne,
Athelstan marched into Northumbria, and, after a signal victory gained at Brunanburg [site unknown], he
united Northumbria to the rest of his kingdom ; and in that way acquired the title of the first English
monarch, thus eclipsing the fame of Alfred, who had suffered the Danes to divide the kingdom with him by
apportioning to them Northumbria and East Anglia. Athelstan amongst other laws enacted (A.D. 935) that
any merchant who should make three voyages over the sea with his own manufactures, should have the right
of a thane, that is, should rank with the privileged orders. By this means encouragement was given to
manufactures and to commerce at the same time; and that agriculture might enjoy its share of the royal
favour, any ceorl who had five hides of his own land, a church, a kitchen, a bell-house, and a separate office
in the king's hall, also became a thane.
The Danish Northumbrians, still impatient of the Saxon rule, broke out again into rebellion, in the
reign of Edmund, the successor of Athelstan, and chose Anlaf of Ireland as their king; but Edmund,
marching suddenly into the southern part of Northumbria (Lancashire, and Yorkshire), overthrew the mal-
contents, who, to appease his indignation and to conciliate his confidence, offered to embrace the Christian
religion, and to abandon their idolatry.
From the middle to the end of the tenth century, the Anglo-Saxon Chronicles are almost entirely
occupied by the wars in Northumbria and the changes in the monastic orders, which were then taking place
under the influence of the ambitious Dunstan, abbot of Glastonbury. Under the auspices of Dunstan, the
Benedictine rule was introduced into nearly fifty monasteries South of the Trent ; but, notwithstanding
Wilfrid's endeavours in former times, and Dunstan's energies and activity in the present day, there was not,
before the Norman conquest, a single monk in all the Northumbrian territory.” The tribute of Danegeld, a
tax upon the people to repel the ravages of the Danes, was imposed for the first time in the year 991, and
was at first of the amount of £10,000. All the land in the county contributed to this impost by a rate-
able assessment, except the lands of the church, which were exempt on account of the efficacy of the prayers
of the clergy, which were supposed to form an equivalent for their contributions. “The payment of
Danegeld was first ordained on account of the pirates; for in their ravages of our country, they did all they
could to desolate it. To check their insolence, Danegeld was levied annually, 12d. On every hide throughout
the country, to hire men to oppose the pirates. From this tax every church, and every estate held in
property by the church, wheresoever it lay, was exempted, contributing nothing towards this payment, be-
cause more dependence was placed on the prayers of the church than on the defence of arms.” The produce
of this tax, which was at first employed in resisting the Danes, was afterwards used to purchase their for-
bearance. Their irruptions and exactions became continually more oppressive, and in the year 1010 the base
expedient was resorted to of purchasing peace from them by the payment of £48,000.
It is remarkable that in the whole of the Saxon Chronicles, the term “Lancashire "never once occurs,
though the neighbouring counties in the kingdom of Northumbria are mentioned in those ancient annals
several times. It is also remarkable that the name of Lancashire is not to be found in the Domesday Book
of William the Conqueror, though the manors and lands are described in that imperishable record with the
usual accuracy and precision."
The long and inglorious reign of Ethelred was perpetually distracted by the invasions of the Danes, first
under Sweyn, and afterwards under Canute, his son and successor; and in the reign of Edmond Ironside, the
king was obliged to surrender up one-half his kingdom, by awarding to Canute, Mercia, East Anglia, and
Northumbria, which he had entirely subdued. The unfortunate Edmond survived the treaty by which his
kingdom was dismembered only a month, having been murdered at Oxford by two of his chamberlains; and
in this way the succession of Canute, the Dane, to the throne of England, was secured.
In order to gratify the ambition of the chief of the English nobility, and to attach them to his interest,
Canute created Thurkill earl or viceroy of East Anglia, Eric earl of Northumbria, and Edric earl of Mercia,
reserving to himself only the government of Wessex; but this power of the earls was of short duration; Thur-
kill and Eric were soon expelled from the kingdom, and Canute became sole monarch of England. Finding
himself firmly seated on his throne, he restored the Saxon customs, to which the people were attached, in a
general assembly of the states; justice was administered with impartiality; the lives and property of all the
people were protected, and the Danes were gradually incorporated with his subjects. Canute, the greatest
sovereign of his age, had the fame to reign over six kingdoms.' The closest connection subsisted between
1 Wilkin's Leges Anglo-Sax. p. 71. * Saxon Chron. A.D. 941. * Mr. Baines quotes a MS. of Dr. Kuerden as to the division of
the kingdom of Northumbria, by King Egbert, into shires or
* Sim. Dunelm. A.D. 1074. * Saxon Chron. A.D. 991, counties, and these again into hundreds, wapentakes, or ridings;
- but the statement is exceedingly inaccurate and without authority.
* Camden, vol. i. p. 177. —H. " Saxo, 196.
CHAP. II. (The #istory of Lancashire. 17
Northumbria and Scotland in the reign of Canute, and even Cumberland was subject to Malcolm, the Scotch
king. This division of his kingdom was inconsistent with the policy of Canute, who, after marching through
Lancashire at the head of a formidable army, took possession of Cumberland, and placed Duncan, the grand-
son of Malcolm, in possession of that province, subject to the throne of England.
Canute, by a treaty with Richard, duke of Normandy (A.D. 1305), had stipulated that his children by
Emma, the sister of that prince, should succeed to the throne of England; but, in violation of that engage-
ment, he appointed Harold, surnamed Harefoot for his speed, as his successor, instead of Hardicanute, the
son of that princess. A short and disturbed reign was terminated by the succession of Hardicanute, who
appointed Siward, Duke of Northumbria, along with Godwin, duke of Wessex, and Leofric, duke of Mercia,
to put down the insurrection which prevailed against his government. Edward the Confessor succeeded to
the throne in 1041, to the prejudice of Sweyn, king of Norway, the eldest son of Canute. The English
flattered themselves that, by the succession of Edward, they were delivered for ever from the dominion of
the Danes, and their rejoicings were unbounded; but the court was soon filled with Normans, to the pre-
judice of the Anglo-Saxon nobility, and the language and the fashions of France were very generally intro-
duced. This circumstance gave great offence to the native nobles, who, with Godwin at their head, supported
by his three sons, Gurth, Sweyn, and Tosti, rose in rebellion against the king. On the death of Duke God-
win, one of the most powerful nobles of his time, his son Harold aspired to the English throne, and was
joined by Macbeth, an ambitious Scotch nobleman, who had put to death his sovereign, Duncan, king of
Scotland, and usurped his throne. In the wars which ensued, the men of Lancashire were deeply engaged,
and Siward, duke of Northumberland, resisted the usurper with all his force. To defeat the ambitious pro-
gress of Harold, the king cast his eye towards his kinsman, William, duke of Normandy, as his successor.
This prince was the natural son of Robert, Duke of Normandy, by Harlotta, daughter of a tanner in Falaise."
The character of the young prince qualified him for the duties of government in the age in which he lived,
and to a courage the most intrepid he added a severity the most inflexible. During a visit paid by Harold
to Rouen, William disclosed to him the intentions of Edward, and prevailed upon him, by an offer of one of
his daughters in marriage, and by other motives of fear and reward, to promise that he would support his
claims to the throne of England. Not satisfied with a promise, on which he had little reliance, William re-
quired Harold to take an oath in ratification of that engagement ; and, in order to give increased solemnity
to the pledge, he secretly conveyed under the altar, on which Harold agreed to swear, the relics of some of
the most revered martyrs. Notwithstanding this solemn engagement, which Harold considered as extorted,
and therefore not binding, on his return to England he resorted to every means within his power to strengthen
his influence. Earl Tosti, a tyrannical prince, the brother of Harold, who had been created duke of Nor-
thumberland, acted with so much cruelty and injustice in the counties of York and Lancaster, that the in-
habitants, headed by the thanes, rose in rebellion against him, and expelled him from his government.
Morcar and Edwin, the sons of Duke Leofric, who possessed great powers in this part of the kingdom, con-
curred in the insurrection; and the former, being elected duke or leader, advanced from York with an army,
collected on the north of the Mersey and of the Humber, to oppose Harold, who had, through the royal
favour, been appointed governor of Wessex, and who was commissioned by the king, on the representation of
Tosti, to reduce and chastise the Northumbrians. Morcar, “advancing South with all the shire, and with
Nottinghamshire, and Derbyshire, and Lancashire,” marched to Northampton. Here they were met by
Harold, at the head of the king's forces, and a desperate battle appeared inevitable; but Morcar, wishing first
to appeal to Harold's generosity and sense of justice, rather than to the issue of arms, represented to him
that Tosti had acted with so much injustice and oppression in his government, that the inhabitants of York-
shire and of Lancashire, with those of Durham, Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmorland, being
accustomed to the government of the law, and being determined to support their birthright, preferred death
to slavery, and had taken the field, determined to perish rather than to submit to the iron yoke of the
tyrant. After communicating with the king, Harold abandoned the cause of his brother, and obtained a
royal amnesty for the insurgents, who returned to their homes as conquerors, driving before them all the
cattle they could collect, amounting to many thousands. Morcar was from this time confirmed in his govern-
ment of Northumbria; and Harold, instead of consummating the family alliance contracted with the daughter
of William of Normandy, married the daughter of Duke Morcar. The death of Edward speedily followed
the suppression of the great northern insurrection, and his body was interred in the abbey of Westminster,
“which he had himself erected to the honour of God and St. Peter, and all God's saints.” The religious zeal
of this sovereign, with whom the Saxon line of English sovereigns terminated, procured him the name of the
Confessor; and his love of justice induced him to complete a code of laws from the works of Ethelbert, Ina,
and Alfred, though those which pass under his name were, according to Sir Henry Spelman, composed after
his death. This sovereign was the first who touched for the king's evil—a superstition which maintained its
hold of public credulity through six centuries, and was not discontinued till the time of the Stuarts.
Though, by the will of Edward, William of Normandy was appointed his successor, Harold stepped into
1 Brompton, p. 910. 2 Saxon Chron. A.D. 1065. 3 Saxon Chron.
D
I8 (Iſiſt ºigturg of £ancashire. CHAP. II.
the vacant throne without hesitation, having first been crowned at York, where he was residing at the time
of the king's death, by Aldred the archbishop, nor did he quit this part of the kingdom till four months after-
wards, when he repaired to London, having been every where received in his progress with the most joyous
acclamation. Earl Tosti, who had taken refuge in Flanders with Earl Baldwin, his father-in-law, on his ex-
pulsion from Lancashire, collected a large fleet, and endeavoured to regain his forfeited possession by sailing
up the Humber and penetrating into Northumbria. Finding his power ineffectual, he associated himself with
Harold Harfager, king of Norway, who with 300 ships assembled in the Isle of Wight, and there remained
all the summer. On the approach of autumn, Harfager appeared off the Yorkshire coast with his 300 ships,
and was joined by Earl Tosti, who had replenished his force amongst the Danish Northumbrians, and, after
entering the Humber, they sailed up the Ouse towards York. On receiving this intelligence, Harold, whose
army was collected in the south, under the expectation of an invasion undertaken by the Normans, hastened
to the north by forced marches. But before his arrival, Edwin, earl of Mercia, and Morcar, earl of North-
umberland, had gathered from Lancashire, and other parts of the earldoms, a considerable force, with the
intention of repelling the invaders. On their arrival at Fulford, a village south of York, a sanguinary battle
ensued, in which the slaughter was so great, that the Norwegians traversed the marshes on the bodies of the
fallen,” and in which Morcar and Edwin were obliged to seek safety in flight, leaving the invaders in posses-
sion of the field. After demanding hostages and prisoners from the inhabitants of York, the “Northmen "
marched to Stamfordbridge, where they were surprised by Harold, at the head of the largest force ever
collected in England. Before the battle commenced, a proposal was sent by Harold to his brother, offering
to re-instate him in the government of Northumbria, if he would withdraw from the field. To which Tosti, in
the insolence of his spirit, replied, “Last winter such a message might have spared much blood; but now
what do you offer for the king my ally "" “Seven feet of ground,” said the Saxon general.” The die was
cast. For some time the passage of the bridge was disputed by one of the Norwegians, who, owing to the
narrowness of the bridge, withstood the “English folk,” “so that they could not pass. In vain did they aim
at him their javelins, he still maintained his ground, till a soldier came under the bridge, and pierced him
terribly inwards, under the coat of mail. Then Harold marched over the bridge, at the head of his army,
when a dreadful slaughter ensued, both of the Norwegians and the Flemings, in which were slain Harfager,
the fair-haired king of Norway, and Tosti, the expatriated earl of Northumbria. The fleet of the Norwegians
fell also into the hands of Harold, who allowed Prince Olave, the son of Harfager, to depart the kingdom,
with twenty of his vessels, taking with him the wreck of the Norwegian and Flemish army. This act of
generosity, as historians are accustomed to consider it, was not unmixed with policy. A still more formidable
invasion was approaching, and Harold wished to be freed from one body of his enemies before he had to
encounter another. The shouts of victory were heard across the island, from the Humber to the Mersey ;
but scarcely had those shouts subsided, before intelligence was received that William of Normandy had
landed at Pevensey, at the head of 60,000 men, supported by a fleet of 3000 sail,” and was constructing a
castle at the port of Hastings. Harold received the news of William's landing without any emotions of dis-
may, while he was at dinner in his favourite city of York. Hastening to London at the head of his army,
which had been diminished by the battle of Stamfordbridge, and which was discontented by being denied a
share of the spoil, he received a message from Duke William, who offered Harold his choice of three proposals
—to reign in fealty under William, whom he had sworn to serve ; or to decide the dispute by single combat ;
or to submit the cause to the arbitration of the pope : to which Harold replied, that the God of battles should
be the arbitrator, and decide the differences between them. Yielding to the impetuosity of his own temper,
instead of listening to the wise counsels of his brother Gurth, he marched from London without due prepar-
ation, in the vain hope of surprising the Normans in the south, as he had surprised the Norwegians in the
north.
The night before the battle of Hastings was passed by the invaders in preparations and in prayer,"
while the English devoted their hours to festivity and joyful anticipations. The fate of England hung on
the issue of the day. Before the battle commenced, on the 14th October 1066, William joined in the
solemnity of religious worship, and received the sacrament at the hands of the bishop ; and to give increased
effect to these solemnities, he hung round his neck the relics on which Harold had sworn to support his
claims to the English throne." He divided his army into three bodies. In front he placed his light infantry,
armed with arrows and balistae, led by Montgomery. The second division, commanded by Martel, consisted
of his heavy-armed battalions. His cavalry, at whose head he stood in person, formed the third line, and
were so disposed, that they stretched beyond the infantry, and flanked each wing of the army. The English
army, chiefly infantry, were arranged by Harold in the form of a wedge, meant to be impenetrable. Their
shields covered their bodies; their arms wielded the battle-axe. Harold, whose courage was equal to his
station, quitted his horse, to share the danger and the glory on foot. His brothers, Gurth and Sweyn,
* Saxon Chron. A.D. 1066. * The “Roman de Rou’’ says 696, which is more probable.
* Snorre, p. 155 ; Ork. Saga, p. 95. * Will, of Malms. p. 104.
* Snorre, p. 160. 4 Saxon Chron. 7 Guil. Pict. p. 201.
CHAP. II. The history of Lancashire. * 19
accompanied him, and his banner, in which the figure of a man in combat, woven sumptuously with gold and
jewels, shining conspicuous, was planted near him.' The English, occupying the high ground, which was
flanked by a wood, not only received the discharge of the Norman weapons with patient valour, but returned
the attack with their battle-axes and ancient weapons with so much effect, that the foot and the cavalry of
Bretagne, and all the other allies of William on the left wing, gave way. The impression extended along
the whole line, and was increased by a rumour that the duke had fallen, Dismay began to unnerve his
army; and a general flight seemed about to ensue.” William, to arrest the progress of the panic, and to
convince his soldiers of his Safety, rushed amongst the fugitives, and, with his helmet thrown from his head,
exclaimed, “Behold me—I live; and will conquer yet, with God's assistance. What madness influences you
to fly? What way can be found for your escape? They whom, if you choose, you may kill like cattle, are
driving and destroying you. You fly from victory—from deathless honour. You run upon ruin and ever-
lasting disgrace. If you continue to retreat, every one of you will perish.” The Normans rallied, and made
a desperate onset ; but the English, forming a wall of courageous soldiery, remained unbroken. William,
finding all his efforts to penetrate their ranks fruitless, resolved to hazard a feigned retreat. A body of a
thousand horse were entrusted with this critical operation. Having rushed upon the English with a horrible
outcry, they suddenly checked themselves, as if panic-struck, and affected a hasty flight. The English
entered eagerly on the pursuit with apparent success; for the Normans, having retired upon an excavation
somewhat concealed, fell into their own trap; many of them perished, and some of the English shared the
same fate. While this manoeuvre was occupying their attention, the duke's main body rushed between the
pursuers and the rest of their army. The English endeavoured to regain their position: the cavalry turned
upon them, and, thus enclosed, many of them fell victims to the skilful movements of their adversaries. At
length they rallied and regained their position, but, uninstructed by experience, they suffered themselves to
be twice afterwards decoyed to a repetition of the same artifice. In the heat of the struggle, twenty Normans
confederated to attack and carry off the English standard. This service they effected, though not without
the loss of many of their number.” The battle continued through the day with frequent changes of fortune.
Harold was more distinguished for the bravery of a soldier than for the skill of a general. William united
the two characters. He had three horses killed under him. While Harold lived, his valorous countrymen
seemed invincible. Fertile in expedients, the duke directed his archers not to shoot directly at the English,
but to discharge their arrows vigorously upwards towards the sky. The random shafts descended into the
English ranks like impetuous hail, and one of them pierced the gallant Harold in the eye," and, penetrating
the brain, terminated his life. A furious charge of the Norman horse increased the disorder. Panic
scattered the English, and the Normans vigorously pursued them through the broken ground. A part of the
fugitives rallied, and, indignant at the prospect of Surrendering their country to foreigners, they sought to
renew the contest. William, perceiving that the critical moment for sealing the victory had arrived, ordered
Count Eustace and his soldiers to the attack. The duke, with a vigour and energy peculiar to himself, joined
in the final conflict, and secured the victory of Hastings and the crown of England. The body of Harold
was found by his mistress, Edith, “the Lady of the Swan Neck,” near those of his two brothers, who were
also slain in the battle, and was sent, at the request of his mother, for interment to the monastery of
Waltham, which he had founded. -
The battle of Hastings terminated the Saxon dynasty in England, after a continuance, with occasional
interruptions, of six hundred years. During this long period the foundations of some of the most important
of our public institutions were laid, and it may be interesting, even for the illustration of local history,
shortly to advert to their nature and origin. In the Saxon period, the mechanical arts, so closely interwoven
with the interests of society, met with liberal encouragement : the wisest of their monarchs invited from all
quarters skilful and industrious foreigners; they encouraged manufactures of every kind, and prompted men
of activity to betake themselves to navigation, and to push commerce into the most remote countries. As
an indication of an approach towards a state of free traffic, and of the increase of commerce, it is mentioned
that Canute, about the year 1028, established mints for the coinage of money in thirty-seven cities and towns
of England, of which number the town of Manchester was one.” A silver penny, coined at York about
the year 630, and marked with the name of Edwin, the Northumbrian monarch, is supposed to be the
earliest specimen of coinage in this island after the abdication of the Romans. The king and his barons
enfranchised the principal towns, to encourage the progress of manufactures, and Manchester was of the
favoured number. - -
It must be admitted, however, that whatever progress our Anglo-Saxon ancestors had made in
commerce and in manufactures, since the time of the Roman sway in Britain, this country had retrograded
deplorably in the practice of the fine arts. As early as the reign of Severus, the sculpture and the painting
of Rome had obtained a high degree of perfection ; but in the Saxon times these accomplishments were
will of Malm. p. 101. * Guil. Pict. 202. * There is no good authority for this ; and Manchester is not
8 Brompton, p. 960. included in the long list of Canute's mints, given in Ruding's
4 Henry of Hunt, p. 368; Will. of Malms. p. 101. Annals of the Coimage.—H.
20 (ſiſt #igtorg of 3Lamraghirt. CHAP. II.
almost extinct in the island, and the coinage of Northumbria, in the reigns of Edelstan, of Harold
surnamed Harefoot, and of Edward the Confessor, as exhibited in the following specimens, serve sufficiently
to prove the lamentable deterioration:—
The Anglo-Saxons were divided into four classes:—men of birth—men of property—freemen—and
serviles. Their money was in pounds, shillings, and pence ; twenty shillings constituted a pound, and
twelve pence a shilling, as at present—with this difference, however, that twenty shillings weighed a pound
troy—and hence the term pound. Guilds, or communities of mutual protection, were formed by persons
engaged in trade, which sought at once to protect the interests of those branches of business, and to provide
for the members of their fraternities in sickness and old age." Markets and fairs were pretty generally
established; attention was paid to agriculture; and the yeoman was held in deserved estimation. Their
monarchy was partly hereditary and partly elective ; and the power of their sovereigns not absolute, but
limited. Their Witena-Gemot of “wise men” formed the great council of the nation, and was a body, the
foundation of our parliaments, that at once enacted laws and administered justice, Besides the trial by
jury, they had the trial by ordeal of water and of iron; by the iron ordeal, the accused carried a piece
of red-hot iron three feet, or nine feet, according to the magnitude of the offence; in the water ordeal,
he plunged his hand into a vessel of boiling-hot water up to the wrist in some cases, and to the elbow
in others; the hand was then bound up, and sealed for three days, at the end of which time the bandage
and seal were removed; when, if the hand was found clean, he was pronounced innocent, if foul, guilty.”
This was a trial, not a punishment, and it was performed before the priest, in the presence of two witnesses,
after due preparation. Sometimes the party choosing this mode of trial prepared his own hand, to endure
the fiery trial; and sometimes probably prepared the hand of the priest, and thus induced him to abate
the height of the temperature. There was another ordeal by Water: the culprit, having a rope tied about
him, was plunged into a river two ells and a half deep ; if he sank, he was acquitted; but if he floated,
being considered deficient in weight of goodness, he was condemned.” The punishments were various, and
consisted of banishment, slavery, branding, amputation of limb, mutilation of the nose, ears, and lips,
plucking out the eyes, stoning, or hanging. The trial by jury was a rational and enlightened inquiry.
The Saxons have the merit of having introduced this invaluable institution into England; and some authors
contend that it originated in the time of Alfred, but it is certain that it was in use amongst the earliest
Saxon colonists." The trial by jury did not at once attain perfection, and it is probable that Alfred
matured and perfected the institution. Originally a man was cleared of an accusation, if twelve persons
came forward and swore that they believed him to be innocent of the alleged crime.” This was a jury
in its earliest form. Afterwards it became necessary that twelve men, peers or equals of the litigants,
should hear the evidence on both sides, and that they on their oaths should say whether the accused wa
guilty or innocent. - -- - -
The Feudal System arose in England during the Saxon dynasty, and for many ages exercised an influence
and control over society, not only in this country, but over the whole of the western nations of the world.
Though the system was introduced into this country by the Anglo-Saxon, it was not till the Norman
Conquest that it received its complete consummation. In the heat of the battle of Hastings, William had
promised his followers that the lands of England should be theirs if victory crowned their efforts; and
the possessions of Earl Tosti, as well as those of the other Saxon barons, between the Mersey and the Ribble,
and to the north of the latter river, speedily became the knights' fees of the houses of Lacie and Poictou.
In the partition of the spoil, the most considerable share fell to the king. These lands became the subject
of feudal tenures; the king conferred them upon his favourites in Capite, on the condition that they should
faithfully serve him in war and in peace, and on payment of a certain annual fine ; and they again granted
their Lancashire manors to Goisfridus, Willielmus, Tetbaldus, and others, as their feudatories. These
thanes had their socmen and villeins—in other words, their farmers and their slaves—some holding by
military, and others by rustic obligations; but all, from the highest to the lowest, under feudal tenures.
The whole frame of society was involved in this comprehensive system."
! Eden on the Poor Laws. * Wilk. Leg. Inae, p. 27. 6 Mr. Baines gives here a very long quotation as to the feudal
system from a MS. of Dr. Kuerden, in the Chetham Library, which,
from its want of authority and accuracy, loose style, and strange
* Turner's Ang. Sax. iv. 337. phraseology, is not deemed Worth reprinting.—H.
* Textus Roffensis. * Black. Com. cap. xxiii.

CHAP. III. The history of Lancashire. 21
0HAPTER III.
William the Conqueror's Suppression of Revolts in the North—His Extension of the Feudal System and Seizure of
Church Lands and Property—The Domesday Survey and Book—The Honor of Lancaster—Its First Norman
Baron, Roger de Poictou–Its Grant by the Crown to Randle, Third Earl of Chester—A.D. 1066 to circó 1120.
O sooner was the Norman Conqueror seated on the throne of England, than he began to
exercise the power of conquest with all the rigour which the jealousy of his own mind and
ºš the insubordinate disposition of his new subjects dictated. The doctrines inculcated by
i\{ Machiavel, in his instructions to conquering princes, were practised by William of Normandy
in England, five centuries before they were promulgated by the Italian politician. He left
*QA A/C no art untried to root out the ancient nobility, to curb the power of the established clergy,
or to reduce the commonalty to the lowest state of penury and dependence. Earls Morcar and Edwin, who
had so successfully resisted the tyrannical power of Earl Tosti, were among the first to revolt from the yoke
of the tyrant. To give effect to their resistance, they raised forces in Lancashire and Cheshire, as well as in
the other northern counties, and fixed upon the celebrated Northumbrian capital, the city of York, then
amongst the first cities in the kingdom, Superior even to London, as their stronghold. This alarming revolt
the Conqueror hastened to subdue ; and such was the violence of his rage, that, on his way to the north, he
swore repeatedly, by the “splendour of God,” that he would not leave a soul of the insurgents alive. The
strength of the Saxon barons was increased by the junction of a large force under Bethwin, king of North
Wales. Preliminary to his arrival, William had suspended Morcar, and appointed Robert de Comyn, a
Norman baron, to the earldom of Northumberland. The orders given to Robert were, to subdue the refrac-
tory spirit of the people, without regard to the shedding of blood;’ and a guard of seven hundred men was
placed around his person. The intrepid Northumbrians, roused by a sense of their own wrongs, and by the
indignity offered to the Earl Morcar, rose in open insurrection, and put to death the Norman, with every
individual composing his guard. The first measure taken by William, on his arrival at York, was to offer
mercy to the insurgents, on their submission to his authority ; and the chiefs, finding themselves unequal to
contend with the power that was brought against them, accepted the proffered clemency. The earls Morcar
and Edwin, accompanied by Gospatric, and Edgar Atheling, their lawful prince, fled into Scotland under the
protection of King Malcolm. Unmindful of that general amnesty which he had offered, the Conqueror
directed the most severe proscription against the Saxon inhabitants of these regions, hundreds of whom fell
under the cruel inflictions of the Normans. To guard against a surprise, the Conqueror caused numerous
castles to be erected in the north of England; and in the city of York two castles sprang up under the
direction of the Normans. These precautions were not confined to inland fortifications; they extended also
to the coast, and the castles of Lancaster and of Liverpool, on the Lune and the Mersey, were both erected
during the early part of the Conqueror's reign, by Roger de Poictou, one of the most distinguished amongst
the Norman barons. Notwithstanding the severity practised by William on the suppression of the first
insurrection, he allowed the earls Morcar and Edwin to retain their estates in Lancashire, Yorkshire, and
Cheshire, though he extended the rigours of confiscation over the lands of many of their followers. The
forfeitures, attainders, and other acts of violence, soon produced another insurrection, the flame of which,
lighted up amongst the brave Northumbrians, spread into other parts of the kingdom ; but the king, well
aware that the most imminent danger existed in the counties of York and Lancaster, determined to march
once more against them, and placing himself at the head of a powerful army, he left London, to take his
revenge upon the insurgents. By common consent, Earl Waltheof was appointed governor of the city of York
by the Saxon barons, while the Danish general took up his intrenchments between the Humber and the
Trent, in order to keep the Normans in check. On the arrival of William and his army before York, he sent
his summons to the governor, offering him clemency, if he surrendered promptly; but threatening the most
terrible vengeance, if he attempted to withstand his authority. He pushed on the siege with vigour, and was
not less vigorously resisted. A breach having been made in the walls by the engines of the besiegers, the
governor himself, being a man of prodigious might and strength, stood single in the breach, and cut off the
heads of several Normans who attempted to enter.” For six months the siege was sustained, and the
struggle was sanguinary and exhausting; and it was not till William had reinforced the besieging army again
and again, that he gained possession of the city. Famine at length effected what force could not achieve ;
1 Wal. Hemingford, Canon of Gisburgh. * William of Malmsbury.


22 Qſìje 39tgtorg of Lancashire. - CHAP. III.
and William not only promised forgiveness to the governor, but also the most reasonable terms to his troops,
on the condition of surrender. Under the influence of that admiration which bravery inspires amongst the
brave, the Conqueror gave to Waltheof his niece Judith, daughter of the countess Albemarle, in marriage, and
created him also earl of Northumberland. The reconciliation was only temporary. William, impatient of
opposition, brought the gallant earl to the block, on account of another conspiracy, and this was the first
nobleman whose life was terminated in England by decapitation. Earls Morcar and Edwin, no longer able to
sustain their own dignity, or to preserve the public rights, quitted the seats of their earldoms in Northum-
bria and Mercia. Edwin, in attempting to make his escape into Scotland, was betrayed by some of his
followers, and killed by a party of Normans, to the deep affliction of the men of Lancashire and Cheshire,
where the ardour of his patriotism, and his personal accomplishments, had gained all hearts; while Earl
Morcar was thrown into prison, and consigned to future obscurity. Lucia, the sister of the earls Morcar and
Edwin, was presented in marriage to Ivo Talbois, the first baron of Kendal, who came over with the Con-
queror. This baron was distinguished by the favour of his prince, who granted to him that part of Lanca-
shire which adjoins Westmorland, as well as the confiscated lands of his wife's brother in Lincolnshire.
William viewed the inhabitants of Northumbria as the most formidable enemies to his power; and in order
to satiate his rage, and to prevent further resistance, he razed the city of York to the ground; and with it
fell many of the principal nobility and gentry, as well as the humbler inhabitants, Nor did his implacable
vengeance rest here; he laid waste the whole of the fertile country between the Humber and the Tees, a
distance of sixty miles, so that, for nine years afterwards, neither spade nor plough was put into the ground.'
If any of the wretched inhabitants escaped, they were reserved for a more lingering fate, being forced through
famine to eat dogs and cats, horses, and even human flesh. So unsparing was the destruction, that the inha-
bitants could scarcely recognise their own lands; and when the Domesday Book was compiled, though the
survey was not commenced till ten years afterwards, many townships remained uncultivated, which is the
reason why Wasia [waste] so often occurs in the Domesday Survey of Yorkshire. In that part of this ancient
document which concerns Lancashire, the returns are more fully made, though not under the head of a distinct
county; and a presumption naturally arises that the Conqueror's severity was practised with less rigour
between the Mersey and the Duddon, than between the Humber and the Tees. In the north of Lancashire,
included within the ancient limits of Richmondshire, several vacancies are found ; and in the south-eastern
part of the district, between the Ribble and the Mersey, the scanty return of names may be accounted for by
the vicinity of that part of Salford hundred to the devoted county of York. -
The Conqueror soon placed all the land of the kingdom under that system of feudal tenure which had
already been partially introduced under the Saxon dynasty. These possessions, with very few exceptions
besides the royal demesnes, were divided into baronies, which were conferred, with the reservation of stated
services and payments, on the most considerable of the Normans. The great barons, who held of the crown,
shared out a large part of the lands to other foreigners, who bore the names of knights or vassals, and who
paid their lord the same duty and submission in peace and in war, which he himself owed to his sovereign.
The whole kingdom contained about seven hundred chief tenants, and 60,215 knights' fees; and as none of
the English were admitted into the first rank, the few who retained their landed possessions were glad to be
received under the protection of some powerful Norman baron, though at the cost of an oppressive burden on
those estates which they had received as a free inheritance from their ancestors.”
Having broken the spirit of the laity, the Conqueror now proceeded to appropriate a large share of the
enormous property of the clergy to his own use. The first step he took for the attainment of this object,
was to seize not only all the riches" and valuable effects which the English had lodged in the religious houses
throughout the kingdom during the troubles; but even the charters, shrines, and treasures belonging to the
monasteries themselves, resolving at the same time that none of the English monks or clergy should ever be
preferred to any of the vacant sees, and that those who already possessed them should be stripped of their
dignities. In consequence of this resolution, Stigand, archbishop of Canterbury, was removed from his
episcopal office on various groundless pretences, but without the colour of justice. Adding cruelty to injustice,
William imprisoned the deprived prelates, and kept them in confinement all the rest of their lives. In this
province, the king, during the feast of Pentecost, named Thomas, a canon of Baieux, to the see of York. The
principles he had adopted in Normandy he introduced into England, and seemed quite ready to act upon the
determination he had made in the former country—namely, “that if any monk, who was his subject, should
dispute his will, he would cause him to be hanged forthwith.” In Saxon times, the clergy, not only in this
province, but throughout the nation generally, held their lands and possessions by a different tenure from the
laity, called Frank-Almoigne, subject to no secular service, to no rents or impositions, but such as they con-
sented to lay upon themselves in their councils or synods, which privilege they had extorted, as we have
already seen, from the superstition of Ethelwulf.” Their estates, derived from the bounty of the Saxon kings
* Malms. p. 103, Knighton. Ingulf. p. 79. Sim. of Dur. p. * The drenghes mentioned in the Domesday Book, “Newton
199. - Hundred,” were probably of this number.—B.
* Orderic. Vitalis, p. 523. * Sim. of Dur. Ann, of Waver. T. Sprott's Chron. p. 114.
* See chap. ii. p. 14. -
-CHAP. III. (The #igtorg of £ancashire. 23
and their nobles, were so great, that they possessed more than a third part of the kingdom ; the computation
being that of the 60,215 knights' fees, the clergy held 28,015, exclusive of their plate, jewels, and various
other treasures. With such enormous riches at their disposal they became unduly powerful; and William,
jealous of that power, and suspicious of their fidelity, reduced all their lands to the common tenure of knight's
service and barony. The new prelates were required to take an oath of fealty, and to do homage to the king,
before they could be admitted to their temporalities; they were also subject to an attendance upon the king
in his court-baron, to follow him in his wars with their knights and quota of soldiers, to pay him their usual
aids, and to perform all the other services incident to the feudal tenures. The clergy remonstrated most
bitterly against this new revolution; but William was inexorable, and consigned to prison or to banishment
all who opposed his will. While the power of the clergy was thus curtailed, that of the barons, who were
now chiefly Norman, was increased. In their manors they had absolute jurisdiction; they gave laws and
administered justice in their courts-baron to their vassals; and suits between the tenants of different lords
were tried in their hundred, or county courts, while the king's courts took cognisance only of those between
the barons themselves.”
By a synod held in London (A.D. 1075), the precedency of the bishops was settled, according to the
priority of their consecration, except with regard to such sees as had particular privileges annexed to them.
Hitherto the bishops had resided in small towns or villages, for the purpose, as was alleged, of sacred retire-
ment ; but at this synod it was determined that the see of Lichfield, in which diocese the county of Lancaster
was at that time included, should be removed to Chester. It was now ordained for the first time, “that no
bishop, abbot, or clergyman, should judge any person to the loss of life or limb, or give his vote or countenance
to any other for that purpose ;” and to comply with this canon, the prelates have ever since withdrawn from
the House of Lords in such cases, satisfying themselves with entering a protest in favour of their right,
without exercising it.” The activity of William's mind suggested to him a great national work, which will
be held throughout all ages as a redeeming feature in his life, and will serve to transmit his memory with
veneration to posterity.
“After the synod,” says the Saxon Chronicle, “the king held a large meeting, and very deep consultation with the council,
about this land ; how it was occupied, and by what sort of men. Then sent he his men over all England into each shire, commis-
sioning them to find out—‘How many hundreds of hides were in the shire, what lands the king himself had, and what stock upon
the land; or what dues he ought to have by the year from the shire.” Also, he commissioned them to record in writing, “How
much land his archbishops had, and his diocesan bishops, and his abbots, and his earls; what or how much each man had, who
was an occupier of land in England, either in land or stock, and how much money it was worth.’ So very narrowly, indeed, did
he commission them to trace it out, that there was not one single hide, nor a yard of land; nay, moreover (it is shameful to tell,
though he thought it no shame to do it), not even an ox, nor a cow, nor a Swine, was there left, that was not set down in his writ.
And all the recorded particulars were afterwards brought to him.” That nothing might be wanted to render this record complete,
and its authority perpetual, the survey was executed by Norman commissioners, called “the king's justiciaries,” consisting of
nobles and bishops, acting under royal appointment, and associated, probably, with some of the principal men of each shire. The
inquisitors, upon the oaths of the sheriffs, the lord of each manor, the presbyters of every church, the reeves of every hundred, the
bailiffs and six villeins of every village, were to inquire into the name of the place, who held it in the time of King Edward, who
was the present possessor, how many hides in the manor, how many carucates in demesne, how many homagers, how many villeins,
how many cotarii, how many servi, what free-men, how many tenants in Socage; what quantity of wood, how much meadow and
pasture, what mills and fish-ponds; how much added or taken away, what the gross value in King Edward's time, and how much
each free-man or soc-man had or has. All this was to be triply estimated : first, as the estate was held in the time of the Con-
fessor; then, as it was bestowed by King William ; and, thirdly, as its value stood at the formation of the survey. The jurors
were moreover to state whether any advance could be made in the value.
The exact time occupied in taking the whole survey of the kingdom is differently stated by historians;
but the probability is, that it was commenced A.D. 1080; and it is evident, from the date inserted at the
end of the second volume, that it was completed in 1086. It is remarkable that in this survey the name of
Lancashire does not occur; but that part of it which lies between the Ribble and the Mersey is surveyed
under Cheshire, while the northern part of the county, including Amounderness and the Hundred of Lons-
dale, north and south of the Sands, is comprehended under Yorkshire. The return in Amounderness, that
“sixteen of the villages in this hundred have few inhabitants (how many is not known), and the rest are
waste,” sufficiently indicates that the hand of the spoiler had lain heavy upon that Hundred. By the
Domesday return, the king acquired an exact knowledge of all the possessions of the crown. It furnished
him with the means of ascertaining the strength of the country, pointed out the possibility of increasing the
revenue in certain districts, and formed a perpetual register of appeal for those whose titles to their estates
might in future be disputed. This purpose it has served ever since its completion; and even now, at the
end of nearly eight hundred years, such is the credit of this document, that if a question arises whether a
manor, parish, or lands, be ancient demesne, the issue must be tried by this book, whence there is no appeal.
The two volumes which contain the survey are now, by common consent, called Domesday Book, from Dome
(census), and Boc (book). It has, however, borne other designations, and has been known as Rotulus
Wintoniae, Scriptura. Thesauri Regis, Liber de Wintonia, and Liber Regis. Sir Henry Spelman adds, Liber Judi-
ciarius, Censualis Angliae, Anglia. Notitia et Lustratio, and Rotula Regis." - -
1 T. Sprott's Chron. p. 114. * Carte's Hist, vol. i. p. 421. |been called “Domesday type,” to represent the numerous peculiarly
8 Brist. Monast. p. 33. abbreviated Latin words in this ancient record. All who care to
* In the original edition, an attempt was made, by what has read this, and the number must be very few, can now see the
24 (Uiſt #ištúrg ºf £amtāgījirt.
CHAP. III,
BETWEEN RIBBLE AND MERSEY.
[SOUTH LANCASHIRE]
ROGER DE POICTOU HELD THE UNIDERMENTIONED LAND BETWEEN RIBBLE AND MERSEY.
IN [WEST] DERBy HUNDRED.
Ring Edward [the Confessor] had there one manor named Derbei, with six Berewicks." There are four hides.” The land is
fifteen carucates.” There is a forest two leagues" long and one broad; and an aery of hawks.
Uctred held six manors, Rabil (ROBY), Chenulveslei (KNowsLEY), Cherchebi (KIRKBY), Crosebi (CROSBY), Magele (MAGHULL),
and Achetum (AUGHTON I.) There are two hides [of land]. The woods are two leagues long and the same broad, and there are
two aeries of hawks.
Dot held Hitune (HUYTON) and Torboc (TARBOCK): there is one hide quit of every custom duties but the gelt [danegeld]. The
land is four carucates. It was worth twenty shillings.
Bernulf held Stochestede (ToxtETH I.) One virgate” and half-a-carucate of land there paid four shillings.
Stainulf held Stochestede (TOXTETH II.) There one virgate and half-a-carucate of land were worth four shillings.
Five Thames held Seatone (SEFTON.) There was one hide there, worth sixteen shillings. ©
Uctred held Chirchedele (KIRKDALE). There is half-a-hide quit of every custom but the gelt. It was worth ten shillings.
hill.” held Waletone (WALTON ON THE HILL). There were two carucates and three bovates [or oxgangs] of land worth eight
SIłll III.19.S. -
#. held Liderlant (LITHERLAND I.) There is half-a-hide. It was worth eight shillings.
Three Thames held Himme (INCE BLUNDELL) for three manors. There was half-a-hide. It was worth eight shillings.
Ascha held Torentun (THORNTON). There was half-a-hide. It was worth eight shillings.
Three Thames held Mele (MEOLS) for three manors. There is half-a-hide. It was worth eight shillings.
Uctred held Ulventwºne (LITTLE WOOLTON). There are two carucates of land, and half-a-league of wood. It was worth sixty-four
pence. -
Edelmºnd held Esmédune (SMITHDown, now LIVERPOOL).
Three Thames held A/retune (ALLERTON) for three manors,
Uctred held Spec (SPEKE). There are two carucates of land. It was worth sixty-four pence. &
Four Radmans [Knight Riders] held Cildewelle (CHILDwALL) for four manors. There is half-a-hide. It was worth eight
shillings. There was a priest there having half-a-carucate of land in frank-amoign [free-alms].
Ulbert held Wibaldeslei (WINDLE, WINDLESHAW, WHISTON, BoID, PARBöLD, AND PRESCOT).
land. It was worth sixty-four pence.
Two Thames held Uvetone (MUCH WooDTON) for two manors. There is one carucate of land. It was worth thirty pence.
Leving held Wavretreu (WAVERTREE). There are two carucates of land. It was worth sixty-four pence.
Four Thames held Boltelai (BootLE) for four manors. There are two carucates of land. It was worth sixty-four pence. A
priest had one carucate of land to the church at Waletone (WALTON ON THE HILL).
Uctred held Achetum (AUGHTON II.) There is one carucate of land. It was worth thirty-two pence.
Three Thames held Fornebei (FoRMBY) for three manors. There are four carucates of land. It was worth ten shillings.
Three Thames held Einſulvesdel (AINSDALE). There are two carucates of land. It was worth sixty-four pence.
Steinulf held Hoiland (DOWN HOLLAND). There are two carucates of land. It was worth sixty-four pence.
Uctred held Daltone (DALTON). There is one carucate of land. It was worth thirty-two pence.
The same Uctred [held] Schelmeresdele (SKELMERSDALE). There is one carucate of land. It was worth thirty-two pence.
The same Uctred [held] Literland (LITHERLAND II.) There is one carucate of land. It was worth thirty-two pence.
Wibert held Erengermeles (RAVEN's MEOLs). There are two carucates of land. It was worth eight shillings. This land was
quit [of every tax] except the gelt. -
Five Thames held Otegrimele (ORRELL in Sefton). There is half-a-hide. It was worth ten shillings.
Uctred held Latume (LATHOM) with one berewick. There is half-a-hide [of land]. There is a wood One league long and half-a-
league broad. It was worth ten shillings and eight pence.
Uctred held Hirletun (HURLESTON, in Scarisbrick) and half of Merretum (MARTIN). There is half-a-hide.
shillings and eight pence.
Godeve held Melinge (MELLING).
was worth ten shillings.
Uctred held Leiate (LYDIATE).
worth sixty-four pence.
Two Thames held six bovates of land for two manors in Holand (Down Hol.I.AND II.) It was worth two shillings.
Uctred held Acrer (ALTCAR). There is half-a-carucate of land. It was waste.
Te0s held Bartºne (BARTON in Down Holland). There is one carucate of land. It was worth thirty-two pence.
Chetel held HeleShale (HALSALL). There are two carucates of land. It was worth eight shillings.
All this land is rateable to the gelt; and fifteen manors rendered nothing to King Edward but the gelt.
This manor of Derbei (WEST DERBY), with its aforesaid hides, rendered to King Edward in farm a rent of twenty-six pounds
and two shillings. Three of these hides, the tax whereof [the king] remitted to the thanes who held them, were free. These rendered
four pounds and fourteen shillings and eight pence.
All these thanes were accustomed to render two ores" of pennies for each carucate of land; and by custom they, like the villeins,
made the king's houses and what belonged to them ; and the fisheries, and the hays and stands" in the wood. And whoever came
There is one carucate of land. It was worth thirty-two pence,
There is half-a-hide. It was worth eight shillings.
There are two carucates of
It was worth ten
There are two carucates of land ; [and] a wood one league long and half-a-league broad. It
There are six bovates of land; [and] a wood one league long and two furlongs broad. It was
beautiful fac-simile of the original, taken by photo-zincography under
the direction of Lieut.-Col. Sir Henry James of the Ordnance Survey,
which has been published in a separate vol. at a moderate price.
We give the translation, as made from a careful examination of the
fac-simile by William Beamont, Esq. of Orford Hall, Warrington,
in his “Literal Extension and Translation of Domesday Book—
Cheshire and Lancashire, etc.”—and by his permission.
* The berewick was a small manor belonging to a larger.
* The hide was an uncertain and variable quantity of land.
* The carucate, carve, or plough-land, was, like the hide,
an uncertain and variable quantity of land. In the last line but
three of the survey of Derby Hundred, are the words, “In every
hide there are six carucates of land.” This probably applies to
all South Lancashire, within which the carucate was the sixth part
of a hide, whatsoever quantity the latter implies.
* The levva, here translated league, has often been rendered
mile. It was half-way between, a measure of length containing
twelve furlongs, each of forty perches of five and a half yards long,
or about as long as about a mile and a half of our present measure.
W. Bedmont.
* The virgate, or yard-land, was two bovates or oxgangs, or
one-fourth of a hide, and, like it, was a variable quantity. :
° The ord, was not a coin, but money of computation, each ora
being worth twenty pence.—W. B.
* Stabiliturge were the stands, stalls, or stations in the forest, where
the deer might be aimed at and taken with less difficulty.—W. B.
CHAP. III. QThe #istorg of £ancashire. 25
not to these when he ought, was fined two shillings, and afterwards came and worked until the work was finished. Each of them
sent his mowers one day in August to cut the king's corn. If he failed [herein] he was fined two shillings.
If any freeman committed theft, or forestel, or heinfare,” or broke the king's peace, he was fined forty shillings.
If any one shed blood, committed rape, or absented himself from the shiremote without reasonable excuse, he was fined ten
shillings. -
#. absented himself from the hundred court, or came not when there was a plea, and when he was summoned by the reeve,
he made amends by five shillings. r
If [the reeve] commanded any one to go on a service [to which he was bound], and he did not go, he was fined four shillings.
If any one desired to withdraw from the king's land, he paid forty shillings, and had liberty to go where he would.
If any one desired to take up the land of his deceased father, he paid for it forty shillings as a relief.
If he was not willing to pay this, the king took both the land and all the father's cattle.
Uctred held Crosebi (CRosBY) and Chirchedele (KIRKDALE) for one hide, and was free of all customs but these six: breach of the
peace, forestel, heinfare, continuing a fight after oath given [to the contrary], not paying a debt until after judgment given, and not
keeping a time appointed him by the sheriff. The fine for these was forty shillings. They paid the king's gelt, however, like the
rest of the country.
In Otringemele (ORRELL in Sefton) and Herleshala (HALSALL) and Hiretum (TARLETON), there were three hides free from the
gelt of the carucates of land, and from forfeitures for blood or rape; but they rendered all other customs.
Of this manor of Derbei (WEST DERBY) the following men hold land by the gift of Roger of Poictou —Goisfrid two hides and
half-a-carucate, Roger one hide and a half, William one hide and a half, Warin half-a-hide, Goišfrid one hide, Tetbald one hide
and a half, Robert two carucates of land, [and] Gºlebert One carucate of land. These have four carucates in their demesne, and [there
are] forty-six villeins, and one radman, and sixty-two bordars, and two serfs and three maid-servants. They have among them
twenty-four carucates. Their wood is three leagues and a half long, and one league and a half and forty perches broad; and there
are three aeries of hawks. The whole is worth eight pounds and twelve shillings. In every hide there are six carucates of land.
But the demesne of this manor, which Roger held, is worth eight pounds. In this demesne there are now three carucates and six
neatherds, and one radman, and seven villeins. -
IN NEWTON HUNDRED.
In Neweton (NEWTON), in the time of King Edward [the Confessor] there were five hides. Of these one was in the demesne.
The church of the same manor had one carucate of land; and Saint Oswald of the same vill had two carucates of land free of every-
thing.
fine other land of this manor, fifteen men called Drenghes held for fifteen manors, which were berewicks of this manor; and
among them all these men rendered thirty shillings. There is wood there ten leagues long and six leagues and two furlongs broad,
and there are aeries of hawks. - -
All the freemen of this hundred, except two, had the same custom as the men of Derbeishire [West Derby Hundred], but in
August they mowed two days more than they on the king's tillage lands. The two [excepted men] had five carucates of land, and
had the forfeitures for bloodshed, rape, and pannage [in the woods] for their men. The rest were the king's.-This whole manor [of
Neweton] rendered to the king a farm of ten pounds ten shillings. Now there are there six drenghes and twelve villeins,
and four bordars, who have nine carucates amongst them. The demesne is worth four pounds.
IN WARRINGTON HUNDRED.
King Edward held Walintune (WARRINGTON) with three berewicks, there is one hide. To the same manor there belonged
thirty-four drenghes, who had that number of manors; in which there were forty-two carucates of land, and one hide and a half.
Saint Elfin held one carucate of land, free of all custom except the gelt. The whole manor with the hundred rendered to the king
a farm rent of fifteen pounds less two shillings. There are now two carucates in the demesne, and eight men with one carucate.
These men hold land there : Roger one carucate of land, Tetbald one carucate and a half, Warin one carucate, Radulf five
carucates, William two hides and four carucates of land, Adelard one hide and half-a-carucate, [and] Osmund one carucate of land.
The whole is worth four pounds and ten shillings. The demesne is worth three pounds and ten shillings.
IN BLACKBURN HUNDRED.
Jºng Edward held Blacheburne (BLACKBURN). There are two hides and two carucates of land. Of this land the church had
two carucates; and the church of St. Mary in Whalley two carucates of land, [both of them] free of all customs. In the same manor
there is a wood one league long and the same broad, and there was an aery of hawks. –To this manor or hundred were attached
twenty-eight freemen, holding five hides and a half and forty carucates of land for twenty-eight manors. There is a wood there six
leagues long and four broad, and [the manors] were all subject to the above customs.
In the same hundred King Edward had Humnicot (HUNCOTE, near Dunkenhalgh), two carucates of land, and Waletune
(WALTON LE DALE) two carucates, and Peniltune (PENDLETON) half-a-hide. The whole manor, with the hundred, yielded the king
a farm-rent of thirty-two pounds and two shillings. -
Roger de Poictou gave all this land to Roger de Busli and Albert Greslet, and there are so many men who have eleven carucates
and a half; to whom they have granted freedom [from all customs] for three years, wherefore it is not now valued.
IN SALFORD HUNDRED.
Xing Edward held Salford. There are three hides and twelve carucates of wasteland. There is a forest three leagues long and
the same broad. There are many hays and an aery of hawks there. - -
Ring Edward held Radeclive (RADCLIFFE) for a manor. There is one hide, and another hide there belongs to Salford. The church
of St. Mary and the church of St. Michael held in Mamecestre (Manchester) one carucate of land, free from all customs but the gelt.
To this manor or hundred belonged twenty-one berewicks, which so many thanes held for so many manors. In which there
were eleven hides and a half and ten carucates and a half of land. The woods there are nine leagues and a half long and five
leagues and a furlong broad. -
One of these thanes, Gamel, holding two hides of land in Recedham (ROCHDALE), was free of all customs but these six—viz.
theft, heinfare, forestel, breach of the peace, not keeping the term set him by the reeve, and continuing a fight after an oath given
to the contrary. The fine for these was forty shillings. Some of these lands were free from every custom except gelt, and some
were free even from the gelt.
The whole manor of Salford with the hundred rendered thirty-seven pounds and four shillings. Of this manor there are now
in the demesne two carucates and [there are] eight serfs and two villeins with one carucate. The demesne is worth one hundred
shillings.
# the land of this manor these knights hold, by the gift of Roger de Poictou : [i.e.] Nigel three hides and half-a-carucate of
land, Warin, two carucates of land, another Warin one carucate and a half, Goisfrid one carucate, and Gamel two carucates of
1. Forestel (to steal before another), was the assaulting or ob- hind-departing) was a forfeiture for flight for murder, for killing
structing of any person on the king's highway. Heinfºre (q.d. the lord's servant or hind, or for enticing or inveigling him away.
4. E
26 Ǻr #istory of 3Lancashire. ÚHAP. III.
land. In these [lands] there are three thanes and thirty villeins, and nine bordars, and one priest, and ten serfs : they have
twenty-two carucates amongst them. The whole is worth seven pounds.
IN LEYLAND HUNDRED.
Ring Edward held Lailand (LEYLAND). There is one hide and two carucates of land. There is a wood two leagues long and
one broad, and an aery of hawks. To this manor there belonged twelve carucates of land, which twelve freemen held as so many
manors. In these there were six hides and eight carucates of land. The woods there are six leagues long and three leagues and a
furlong broad. The men of this manor and of Salford were not bound by the custom to work at the king's hall, or to mow for him
in August. They only made one hay in the wood; and they had the forfeitures for bloodshed and rape. In the other customs of the
other manors above [mentioned] they bore their part. The whole manor of Leyland, with the hundred, rendered to the king a
farm-rent of nineteen pounds and eighteen shillings and twopence. Of the land of this manor Hirard holds one hide and a half,
JRobert holds three carucates, Radulph, two carucates of land, Roger two carucates of land, [and] Walter One carucate of land. There
are four radmans, a priest, and fourteen villeins, and six bordars and two neatherds there. They have eight carucates among them.
There is a wood three leagues long and two leagues broad, and there are four aeries of hawks there. The whole is worth fifty
shillings. It is in part waste. -
King Edward held Peneverdant (PENWORTHAM). There are two carucates of land, and it rendered ten pence. There is now
a castle there. . In the demesne there are two carucates, and six burgesses, and three radmans, and eight villeins, and four
neatherds. They have four carucates among them all. There is half a fishery. There are a wood and aeries of hawks, as in the
time of King Edward. It is worth three pounds. - - .
In these six hundreds, of Derby, Newton, Warrington, Blackburn, Salford, and Leyland, there are one hundred and eighty-
eight manors. In which there are eighty hides, less one, rateable to the gelt. In the time of King Edward the whole was worth
one hundred and forty-five pounds and two shillings and two pence. When Roger of Poictou received it from the king, it was worth
one hundred and twenty pounds. The king now holds it, and has in his demesne twelve carucates, and [there are] nine knights
holding a fee. Amongst them and their men there are one hundred and fifteen carucates and three oxen. The demesne which
JRoger held is valued at twenty-three pounds and ten shillings. What he bestowed on his knights, at twenty pounds and eleven
shillings.
[NORTH LANCASHIRE,
Surveyed under Yorkshire,
AMOUNDERNESS.
In Prestume (PRESTON) Earl Tosti had six carucates rateable to the gelt, and to it these lands belong —
Estun (ASHTON-ON-RIBBLE) two carucates; Lea (LEA) one carucate; Salewic (SALWICK) one carucate; Cliftun (CLIFTON) two
carucates; Newtune (NEWTON with SCALEs) two carucates; Frecheltun (FRECKLETON) four carucates; Rigbi (RIBBY with WRAY)
six carucates. .
Chicheham (KIRKHAM) four carucates; Treueles (TREALEs) two carucates; Westbi (WESTBY) two carucates; Plumtun (LITTLE
PLUMPTON) two carucates; Widetun (WEETON) three carucates; Pres (PREESE) two carucates; Wartum (WARTON) four carucates.
Lidun (LYTHAM) two carucates; Meretum (MARTON in POULTON) six carucates; Latum (LAYTON with WARBRECK) six
carucates; Staininghe (STAINING) six carucates; Carlemtun (CARLETON) four carucates; Biscopham (BISPHAM) eight carucates.
Rushale (Ross ALL) two carucates; Brune (BRINING) two carucates; Torentum (THORNTON) six carucates; Poltum (POULTON in
the FYLDE) two carucates; Singletºn (SINGLETON) six carucates; Greneholf (GREENHALGH) three carucates. -
Eglestun (ECCLESTON) four carucates; another Eglestun (ECCLESTON, Great and Little) two carucates; Edeleswic (ELSWICK)
three carucates; Inscip (INSKIP) two carucates; Sorbì (SOWERBY) One carucate ; Aschebi (NATEBY) one carucate.
Michelescherche (ST. MICHAEL-LE-WYRE) one carucate ; Catrehale (CATTERALL) two carucates; Clactune (CLAUGHTON) two
carucates; Newhºuse (NEWHOUSE or NEWSHAM) one carucate ; Plumtun (GREAT PLUMPTON) five carucates.
Brocton (BROUGHTON) one carucate ; Witingheham (WHITTINGHAM) two carucates; Bartwm (BARTON in PRESTON) four caru-
cates; Gusamsarghe (GOOSNARGH) one carucate; Halcium (HAIGHTON) One carucate. -
Trelefelt (THRELFALL in the FYLDE) one carucate; Watelei (WHEATLEY) one carucate; Chipinden (CHIPPING) three carucates;
Actun (ALSTON) one carucate; Fiscwic (FISHWICK) one carucate; GrimeSarge (GRIMSARGH) two carucates. *º-
Bibelcastre (RIBCHESTER) two carucates; Bilevurde (BILLSBOROUGH) two ſor three] carucates; Suenesat (SWAINSET) one caru-
cate ; Fortune (FoRTON) one carucate ; Crimeles (CRIMBLEs) one carucate; Cherestanc (GARSTANG) six carucates; Rodecliff
(RAWCLIFFE) two carucates; another Rodeclif (RAWCLIFFE) two [or three] carucates; a third Rodecliff (Upper, Middle, and Out)
three carucates; Hameltwme (HAMBLETON) two carucates. -
Sta/mine (STALMINE) four carucates; Pressovede (PREESALL) six carucates; Midehope (MYTHORP or MYTHOP) one carucate.
All these vills belong to Prestume (PRESTON); and there are three churches. In sixteen of these vills there are but few inhabi-
tants—but how many there are is not known.
The rest are waste. Roger de Poictou had [the whole].
[IN LONSDALE VALE.]
In Haltun (HALTON) Manor Earl Tosti had six carucates of land rateable to the gelt.
In Aldeclif (ALDCLIFF) two carucates; Tiernººn (THORNHAM) two carucates; Hillum (HILLHAM) one carucate ; Lomcastre
(LANCASTER) six carucates; Chercºlomcastre (CHURCH LANCASTER) two carucates. -
Hotum (HUTTON) two carucates; Neutum (NEWTON) two carucates; Owretum (OVERTON) four carucates; Middeltwm (MIDDLETON)
four carucates; Hietune (HEATON) four carucates; Hessam (HEYSHAM) four carucates.
Oxeneclif (OxCLIFF) two carucates; Poltume (POULTON-LE-SANDs) two carucates; Toredholme (TORRISHOLME) two carucates;
Schertune (SKERTON) six carucates; Bare (BARE) two carucates; Slime (SLYNE) six carucates.
Bodeltone (BOLTON) four carucates; Chellet (KELLET) six carucates; Stopeltierne (STAPLETON-TERNE) two carucates; Newhºuse
(NEwsom E) two carucates; Chremeforde (CARNFORTH) two carucates.
All these vills belong to Haltune (HALTON).
In Witetume (WHITTINGTON) Manor Earl Tosti had six carucates of land rateable to the gelt.
In Neutune (NEWTON) two carucates; Ergume (ARKHOLME) six carucates; Ghers?nctume (GRESSINGHAM) two carucates; Hotun
(HUTTON) three carucates; Cantesfelt (CANTSFIELD) three carucates.
Irebi (IREBY) three carucates; Borch (BURRow) three carucates; Lech (LECK) three carucates [all in Lancashire]. Borctume
(BURTON-IN, LONSDALE) four carucates; Bennulfeswic (BARNOLDSWICK) one carucate; Inglestume (INGLETON) [in Yorkshire] six
CarucateS. -
Castretume (CASTERTON) [in Westmorland] three carucates; Berebrºwne (BARBON) [Westmorland], three carucates; Sedberge
(SEDBERGH, in Yorkshire) two carucates; Tiernebi (TIERNSIDE, in Westmorland) six carucates. * -
All these vills belong to Witetume (WHITTINGTON).
CHAP. III.
(ſiſt #istory of £ancashire. 27
TwPLVE MANORS.–In Ovstevvic and Heldetune (AUSTWICK, in Yorkshire, and KILLINGTON, in Westmorland) [there are twelve
manors—viz.] Clapeham (CLAPHAM, in Yorkshire), Middeltun (MIDDLETON, Westmorland), Mamzserge (MANSERGH, Westmorland),
Cherchebi (KIRKBY-LONSDALE), Lupetun (LUPTON, Westmorland), Prestºn (PRESTON PATRIOK, Westmorland), Holme (HoME,
Westmorland), Bortum (BURTON, Westmorland), Hotune (HUTTON ROOF, Westmorland). - -
Wartum (WARTON), Clactun (CLAUGHTON), Catun (CATON). These Torſin held for twelve manors,
In these there are forty-three carucates rateable to the gelt.
Four MANORS,--In. Benétain (BENTHAM, Yorkshire) [there are four manors—viz.] Wininctume (WENNINGTON), Tathaim
(TATHAM), Farleton (FARLTON), Tunestalle (TUNSTALL). -
Chetel had [these for four manors, and there are in them eighteen carucates rateable to the gelt, and three churches.
In Hougun. Manor (HAWGOAT in Dalton, Furness and Furness Fells). Earl Tosti had four carucates of land rateable to the gelt.
In ChilveStrevic (KILLERWICK) three carucates; Sourebi (SOWERBY) three carucates; Hietun (HEATON) four carucates; Daltune
DALTON) two carucates; Warte (SWARTH) two carucates; Newtºn (NEWTON) six carucates. -
Walletum (WALTON) six carucates; Suntum (SANTON) two carucates; Fordebodele two carucates; Rosse (Roos
Pſert (HERT) two carucates; Lies (LEECE) six carucates; another Lies (LEECE) two carucates. 1
Glassertum (GLEASTON) two carucates; Steintum (STAINTON) two carucates; Clivertum (CLIVERTON)2 four carucates; Ouregrive
ORGRAVE, now called TITEUP) three carucates; Meretum (MARTON, alias MARTIN) four carucates; Pennigetum (PENNINGTON) two
carucates; Gerleuuorde (KIRKBY-IRELETH) two carucates; Borch (BURRow) six carucates; Berretseige (BARDSİy) four carucates;
Witingham, (WITTINGHAM) four carucates; Bodele (BOOTLE, in Cumberland) four carucates.
Santacherche (KIRK-SANTON) one carucate; Hougénaï (WALNEY) six carucates. All these vills belong to Hougun (FURNEss).
NINE MANORS.–In Stircaland (STRICKLAND) [there are nine manors—viz.] Mimet (MINET), Cherchebi (KIRKBy-KENDAL),
Helsingetume (HELSINGTON), Steintun (STAINTON), Bodelforde (BODELFORD), Hotum (OLD HUTTON), Bortun (BURTON IN KENDAL,
Westmorland), Daltun (DALTON IN KENDAL, Lancashire), Patum (PATTON IN KENDAL, in Westmorland).
Gilemichel had these. In them are twenty carucates of land rateable to the gelt. -
MANOR.—In Cherchebi (KIRKBY-KENDAL) [Manor] Duvam has six carucates so rateable.
MANOR.—In Aldingham (ALDINGHAM in Furness) [Manor] Ernulf had six carucates so rateable.
MANOR.—In V/wrestun (ULVERSTON) T'urulf has six carucates so rateable.
In Bodeltun (BOLTON with URSWICK) there are six carucates; in Dene (DEAN) one carucate.
E) six carucates;
THE KING's LAND IN CRAVEN, WEST RIDING, YoFKSHIRE,
In Mellinge (Melling), Hornebi (HORNBY), and Wenningetum (WENINGTON) [Manor], Ulf had nine carucates rateable to the gelt.
THE LAND OF ROGER OF POICTOU.
In the two Manors of Lanesdale and CoCreham (LONSADLE and COCKERHAM) Ulf and Machel had two carucates rateable to the gelt.
In the three Manors of Estun (ASHTON), Ellhale (Ellel), and Scozforde (SCOTFORTH) Cliber, Machern, and Ghilemichel, had six
carucates liable to the gelt ; [i.e., in Estun two carucates] in Ellhale (ELLEL) two carucates; in Scožforde (SCOTFoRTH) two carucates.
In Biedun. Manor (BEETHAM, Westmorland), Earl Tosti had six carucates rateable to the gelt ; Roger of Poictou now has them,
and Ernulin, a priest under him. In Jalant (YEALAND CONYERs) four carucates; in Fareltun (FARLETON) four carucates; in
Prestºwn (PRESTON RICHARD, Westmorland) three carucates.
In Bereuwice (BORWICK) two carucates; in Hennecastre (HINGASTER, Westmorland) two carucates; in Eureshaim (HEVERs-
HAM, Westmorland) two carucates; in Lefuenes (LEVENS, Westmorland) two carucates. 8
Of the different ranks of men mentioned in the Domesday Survey, it may be stated briefly that the
barons were of two classes—the greater, or king's barons, who held directly of the crown; and the smaller
barons, or those of the county, who held under the earl. Thane was the Saxon equivalent for the Norman
baron. At the period of Domesday Survey thanes were, however, of three classes:–(1.) The King's thanes,
holding directly from the crown; (2) Those holding under nobles, lords of mesne manors, or vavasors;
and (3) Franklins, freeholders, or yeomen, called thanes from their lands being hereditary and their tenure
free. Again, there were two classes of thanes—the ecclesiastic, called in Saxon Mass-Thanes, and the
temporal or secular thanes. Both of these were again divided into two classes; the greater thanes were
next in rank to earls, being the king's thanes, and called Barones Regis. The inferior the Saxons called
the less thanes, without any addition, as the Smaller barons, such as lords of manors, the less valvasores, or
vavasors, and freeholders. After the invasion of the Normans, many military men of that rank and appella-
tion, endowed with the title of knight, were called by the name of thanes, and afterwards of milites or equites
—knights. Free-men were all holders of land by free, as distinguished from servile, tenure. Radmans or
road-men, were probably riders or horsemen, not always free ; drenghes were a sort of allodial tenants,
between the freemen and the villeins, rendering services to the lord, but personally exempt from the perform-
ance of them, which was done by the villeins holding under them. Bordars held their small portions of land
by the service of supplying the lord's board or table with poultry, eggs, and other small articles of food. The
neatherds (bovarii) or hinds tended the cattle, etc., and were less servile than the villeins, whose tenure and service
were servile, and who were either regardant, or attached to the land, or in gross—i.e. attached to the person of
their lord, who was able to sell or dispose of them at his pleasure. The serfs (servi) were bond men and
women employed only in and about their lord's house. The villeins appear to have corresponded to the
Saxon ceorls, as the serfs did to the Saxon theows or slaves.
1 Fordebodele, Hert, and one of the two Leeces, were all on the
coast, and are said to have been washed away by the sea.—W.
JBedmont.
* Cliverton has been washed away by the sea.—W. B.
8 Under the heads “Yorkshire, the land of Gospatric, West
Riding,” and “The king's land in Yorkshire,” Mr. Beamont has
introduced the following two entries, which are not found in this
part of the Domesday Survey, as photo-zincographed, but which
umdoubtedly relate to Ulverstone, the capital of Furness in Lanca-
shire:—“In Ulvestone [ULVERSTONE] manor, Gospatric had six caru-
cates of land rateable to the gelt. The land is three carucates.
There are now there four villeins, but they do not plough. The
vill is a league long, and half as broad. In King Edward’s time it
was worth twenty shillings, now ten shillings.” “In Ulvestone
[ULVERSTONE] manor, Gospatric held six carucates rateable to the
gelt. The land is two carucates.”
28 Çür £igtorg of 3Lantasijire. CHAP. III,
The great baronial proprietors, both Saxon and Norman, of the “Honor of Lancaster,” were amongst the
most unfortunate of their order. The earls Morcar and Tosti had suffered the fate so common to men in
exalted stations in those turbulent times; and Roger de Poictou, the third son of Roger de Montgomery,
though endowed with three hundred and ninety-eight manors, as the reward of the services rendered by his
family to the Conqueror, was doomed to surrender them all as the price of his rebellion. The proprietors, at
the time of taking the survey, had greatly increased in number, and the manners and customs of the people,
as developed in the survey of the six hundreds between the Mersey and the Ribble, form the most valuable
feature of this ancient record.' The tenure by which the thanes held the land in the hundred of Derby was
—two ores of pennies for a carucate : this must have been most indulgent as far as the rent was concerned,
but the obligation to build the king's houses, to attend his fisheries, to repair his fences, and to reap his
harvest, would add not a little to the pressure upon the thanes. Such was the inequality of the laws in
these times, that in some districts—Orrel, Halsall, and Everton, for instance—the occupiers were exempt not
only from the principal tax (dane-geld), but they were exonerated from the punishment justly due to some
crimes of the greatest enormity; while in other places, the offence of rape, and of the tenant absenting himself
from the shire-mote or hundred court, were to be punished with the same severity—viz, a fine of ten shillings!
It appears also that there were in these six hundreds one hundred and eighty-eight manors, and that their
annual value, when Roger de Poictou received them from the king, was scarcely equal to that of a small
estate in our times. The contrast between the nature of landed possessions in this district, in the time when
the dane-geld tax was enforced in 1086, and the time when the property-tax existed in 1814, is most striking ;
in the former all the lands between Mersey and Ribble were valued at £120–in the latter at £2,569,761.
Allowing for the difference in the value of money at the two periods, the statement will stand thus:—
Annual value in 1086, £120 × 110 = £13,200
In 1814 & 2,569,761
Increased value . £2,556,561
The Saxon titles consisted of Etheling, Heretog, Ealderman, and Thane, but they all merged at the Con-
quest into the more general and comprehensive title of Norman Baron. At the head of the Capitanei Regni,
or chiefs of the realm, in the earlier of these periods, stood the Ethelings. These were noble persons of the
first rank, as princes sprung from the blood royal, and were endowed accordingly with great fees and offices
in the kingdom. Of this description was Edgar Etheling, but the Conquest deprived him of his inheritance.
Amongst the Saxons were certain magistrates called Aldermen. These were princes and governors of pro-
vinces, Earls, Presidents, Senators, Tribunes, and the like. They were of different ranks, as Aldermannus
totius Angliae (the Alderman of all England), in later times imagined to be capitalis Angliſe Justiciarius (chief
justice of England); Aldermannus Regis (king's alderman), so called because he was constituted by the king, or
that he exercised regal authority in the province committed to his charge ; Aldermannus Comitatás (of a county),
sometimes taken pro Schyreman et pso Comite (for the shireman and the comes or earl himself). The office of
Alderman was to inspect the county’s arms, and to raise forces within his jurisdiction ; to repress the refrac-
tory, and to promote public justice. The Bishops were nobles inferior in rank to Earls. By the laws of
Alfred and Athelstan, the lives of the dignitaries, both in the church and state, were valued, and the rate at
which their heads were estimated serves to show their relative dignity. The head of the archbishop, the
earl, or satrap, was valued at 15,000 thrymses; the bishop and alderman, at 8000; the Belli Imperator et
summus praepositus (the commander and chief officer of war), or vice-comes (sheriff), at 4000 thrymses. From
which it appears that the alderman held the middle station between the earl and the sheriff. After the Con-
quest, the alderman's office grew out of use, and was superseded almost entirely by the sheriff. - -
Honors were hereditable before the Conquest by earls and barons, and for the most part to such as were
of the blood-royal ; hence the honor of Lancaster had been possessed successively by earls Tosti and Morcar.
By the Norman law, honors became a feudal patrimony of any of the high barons, generally adjoined to the
principal seat of the baron. The great baron of Lancashire, Roger de Poictou, so called from having married
Almodis of Poictou, ranked amongst the Capitales Barones, holding immediately from the crown. The barons
who held of him were called Barones Comitatüs (barons of the county), and held free courts for all pleas and
complaints, except those belonging to the earl's Sword. The ancient barons in their lordships or baronies
took cognisance of litigation and robberies, and enjoyed and used the privileges which are called sac, Soc, tol,
theam, infangthef, outfangthef, fairs, and markets.” The distinction between an honor and a manor consists
1 The appellation Christis Crofte was anciently given to this tract,
and it is celebrated as a place of security in troublesome times, in the
following metrical prophecy:—
forfeitures and fines; Tol, an acquittance from payment of duties or
tolls in every part of the kingdom ; Theam, a royalty granted over
“When all England is alofte,
Safe are they that are in Christis Crofte ;
And where should Christis Crofte be
But between Ribble and Mersey.”
* Sac was the power of administering justice; Sac, of hearing
and determining causes and disputes, with the power of levying
their villein tenants, as well as over their wives, and children, and
goods, to dispose of them at pleasure. Spelman calls it a right of
trying their bondmen and serfs. Infangthef was the privilege of
trying thieves taken within their lordship ; Outſangtheſ, a royalty
granted by the king, with power to try and punish a thief dwelling
out of the baron's liberty or fee, for a theft committed out of his
jurisdiction, if he be taken within it.
(HAP. III,
Oſije History ºf 3Lämta&ſjirt. 29
principally in the much greater extent of the former, and in the courts held in each. A manor was composed
of demesne and services, to which belong a three weeks' Court, where the freeholders, being tenants of the
manor, sit covered, and give judgment in all suits that are there pleading. But an honor has either a Castle,
as at Lancaster, or at least the site of a castle, or some principal house of state, and consists of demesnes and
services, to which a number of manors and lordships, with all their appurtenances and other regalities, are
annexed. To every manor a Court Baron is attached. In an honor, an honourable Court is kept once every
year at least, and oftener if required ; at which court all the freeholders of all the manors which stand united
to the honor make their appearance, and in which suitors do not sit, but stand bareheaded. Over that court
should be hung a cloth of state, with a chair of state, upon which chair should be laid a cushion made of
cloth of gold, or what is becoming and decent for a place of honour, and upon which there ought to be embroi-
dered the arms belonging to the honor.
The barons of the Honor of Lancaster, in the time of the Conqueror, are thus set forth in Kenion's
MSS. :—
“LIST OF BARONS COM. LANC. under Roger de Poictou. Godefridus, his sheriff of Derby—Yardfridus, Baron of Widnes
Paganus Villers, Baron of Warrington-Albertus Grelle, Baron of Manchester-Burun [Byron], Baron of Ratchdale and Totington—
Ilbert Lacy, Baron of Clitheroe-Warinus, Baron of Newton—Warinus Busli or Bushel, Baron of Penwortham—Roger de Mont-
begon, Baron of Hornby—William Marshall, Baron of Cartmel—Michael Flemingus, Baron of Glaston—William de Lancaster and
Robert de Furness, Barons of Ulverston—Wil. de Lancaster, Baron of Nether Wiresdal—Theobaldus Walter, Baron of Weeton.”
N.B. -Another copy says, “Theob. Pincerna” (i.e. the Butler). -
In tracing the barony of Lancaster, we find the founder of this illustrious house to have been Ivo de
Talebois, otherwise Taillebois, otherwise Talboys, of the house of Anjou, who came over with the Conqueror,
and who, in virtue of his marriage with Lucy, the sister of the Saxon earls Edwin and Morcar, seconded by
the favour of his prince, obtained a large portion of the north of Lancashire, and so much of Westmorland as
comes under the designation of the barony of Kendal. The Richmond Fee, the Marquis Fee, and the Lumley
Fee, formed portions of this barony, and William, the great-grandson of Ivo de Talebois, first caused himself,
by royal license, to be called William de Lancaster and baron of Kendal, before the king in parliament.
“SUCCESSION OF THE BARONS OF LANCASHIRE.-1. Sheriff of Derby, Godfrid, Peverel, Ferrers. 2. Castellan of Liverpool,
Molineux, 3. Barony of Widness, divided between Lacy and Grelly. 4. Barony of Warington, Paganus, afterwards Butler, 5.
Barony of Newton, Langton. 6. Barony of Manchester, Grelly [La Warre], West, Mosley. 7. Barony of Rochdale, Baldwin Teu-
tonicus, afterwards Byron. 8. Barony of Cliderow, Lacy, the Crown, Monk, Montague. ... 9. Barony of Penwortham, Bussel, Lacy,
the Priory, Fleetwood. 10. Barony of Hornby, Roger de Montbegon. 11, Barony of Furnes, Michael Fleming. 12. Barony of
Wiresdale, Wm. de Lancaster. 13. Barony of Weeton and Amounderness, Theobald Walter.”
“STATIONS OF THE ANCIENT BARONS.”—Roger de Poictou, Earl of Lancaster, prudently stationed his barons in the most
vulnerable places, to preserve his earldom in quiet —l. He built a castle at Liverpool against the passage over the water from Cheshire,
and there placed his trusty friend, Vivian Molineux, to be governor and castellanus, in the utmost limits of his earldom ;8 and for
his greater assistance he placed near him at Derby his vicecomes, Godefridus; and not far above, at or Opposite Runcorn, being
another passage out of Cheshire, he fixed Yardfrid, another baron, at Widnes; and a little above that, at Warrington, another
passage, and near unto the church, was the seat of another barony, given to Paganus Villers, to defend the ford at Latchford, before
a bridge was made at Warrington; and a little distance, at Newton, was the seat of the Banisters, a barony in King John's time, to
strengthen the former, and opposite a high ford or boat called Holyn Fare Passage, out of Cheshire, at Straitford, as well as to keep
guard against another Cheshire barony, called Stockport, he placed Albertus Grelle, an eminent baron ; then approaching the hilly
mountain from Yorkshire, at a different passage from Ratchdale, an ancient barony, afterwards succeeded by Lord Buryn, the present
baron thereof; then ascending easterly among those hills at Clidero, he placed Ilbert Lacy, a baron, near the adjacent passage into
Yorkshire; and more northward, not far from his own castle at Lancaster, at Hornby, he placed Roger de Montbegon. Then upon
the northern boundary, from the Scots in Cumberland, was placed at Gleston, Michael Flandrensis; and shortly after the abbot of Furnes,
(4th W. Rufus, 1090-1), placed upon the west part, possessing the Foldra and Walney, who convened with William de Lancaster; and
long afterwards the king bestowed the same upon Ingelianus de Guyas in marriage with his sister; afterwards it was alienated, and
came to the possession of the families of Kirkby and Tells. From thence returning southward to Kartmel, which in King John’s time
came to William de Marshall, governor to King Henry III., and proceeding southward on the river Wyre, one side guarded by William
de Lancaster, lord of that part of the barony of Netherwyrsdal, belonging likewise to the lords of Furness, and the other side environed
with the barony of Weeton, which (temp. W. Rufus) was an appendant to the barony of Penwortham, and bestowed upon Abardus
Bussell, brother of Warinus Bussell, and continued in the renowned noble family of Theobaldus Pincerna, from whom proceeded the
duke of Ormond. And lastly, on that famous estuary of Ribble, at Penwortham, where remained an ancient castle from the time
of the Saxons, here was placed the barony given to Warinus Bussell, who had this place bestowed upon him temp. William the
Conqueror, though it had then no baron, Leyland and great part of Amounderness did anciently belong to the Bussells, for in the
survey temp. Will. I., I find one Rog. de Busli and Albert Greslet, who had Blackburn hundred, and afterwards, upon division
between them, Greslet had part of Leyland hundred, as Brindle, Worthington, etc. . . . . . and a knight's fee in Dalton, Wright-
ington, and P. . . .4 which he gave in marriage with a daughter to Öne Orme, the son of Edward, of Ashton-under-Line. Mont-
begon had another part of Leyland hundred, which he held as annexed to Hornby, as most part of Croston parish—viz. Croston,
1 From Percival’s MSS. The barony of Cartmel appears to be
omitted.
2 From Kenion’s MSS.
* A castellanus is the prefect or governor of a castle, acting there
in place of the lord, and sometimes called castaldus, gastaldius ; his
office is called castaldia, Castallamea being first the name of an office
and afterwards of a dignity. These castelians were appointed by
dukes and earls, who enjoyed vast territories, and in some fortified
places stationed military guards or garrisons to repel enemies. They
were civil judges, to determine the disputes of the people. Having
become powerful, and the sons often succeeding to the father's
office, they at last obtained from the lords the right of holding office
in fee; and by little and little passing the bounds of their jurisdiction,
they transformed the Wand of an inferior justice into the sword of
the Superior, making the force of the dignity to consist more in the
fulness of baronial power, than in the mere name of baron.
Spelman, p. 128, voce Castellanus.
4 Probably Parbold.
30 (Iije 39tgtorg of £antaghire. CHAP. III.
Madeley, Chorley, Haskenmore, Tarlton, and Hole, formerly part of Warinus's Barony, belonged to the Willers, and afterwards to
Montbegon, as likewise Sherington, Welsh Whittle, and Chernoe Gogard, Adlington, and Duxbury, belonged to Greslet. W. B. The
baron of Warington had divers territories in Derby hundred to be assistant to the baron of Derby, and a fee or two in the hundred
of Amounderness, as the baron of Manchester held divers fees in the hundred of Leyland; the baron of Newton a knight's fee in
Blackburn hundred,” etc."
The more particular succession of the barons of Lancashire will be most advantageously treated in the
hundreds to which the baronies belong; but the rise of the honor into a duchy, and the achievements of the
noble and royal house of Lancaster, from the Conquest to the period when they attained the consummation
of their dignity, by giving a sovereign to the throne of England, belong to this portion of our history.
The castle of Lancaster, built by Roger de Poictou, not only served as a military fortress to preserve the
power of his royal benefactor, but it was used also as the baronial residence. It appears from the “Baronia
de Manchester,” that Robert Busli held Blackburn hundred on a temporary tenure only for three years, hence
it was not appropriated before Lacy was its lord; and the probability is, that he held under De Poictou. In
the reign of Rufus, Roger de Poictou granted a charter to our Lady of Lancaster, to which Albert Greslet,
the first baron of Manchester, was a witness.” In the interval between the first division of property, under
the Norman dynasty and the Domesday Survey, the possessions of Roger were forfeited to the crown, by his
defection from the royal cause. The honor of Lancaster was, however, restored to him in the time of William
Tufus, but it was finally alienated on the banishment of Roger, in the 2d Henry I. (1102). From that time
it remained in the crown till it was bestowed on Ranulf de Bricasard (styled also De Meschines), the third
earl of Chester. The precise time when this grant was made, and the circumstances which called for so strong
a manifestation of the royal bounty, are not ascertained; but the following translation of an almost illegible
charter in the British Museum sufficiently authenticates the fact.” -
“RANULF, Earl of Chester, to his constable, dapifer, justiciaries, sheriffs, and bailiff, that are betwixt Ribble and Mersey, and
to all his men, French and English, greeting:—Know me to have granted and confirmed to the Abbot of Evesham, and the Monks
there serving God, all possessions, lands, and tenements, and all liberties given and granted by Warin and Albert Buissel in all
things; and also that they may have their courts in Hocwice of all their tenants, as truly as I have mine at Penwortham, for him
and all his tenants, housebote and haybote, for building or burning, and useful for all other his necessities, without disturbance of
me, or of any in my name, or of any other whatsoever. I also will and firmly command, that no man against the same monks, con-
cerning my grant and confirmation, shall interfere upon any occasion, exaction, or confirmation. I will warrant the aforesaid Abbot,
Convent, and their successors, without fine or demand, for fear or my forfeiture, but they shall hold the same freely and honourably
in all places; and I, Ranulf, and my heirs, the aforesaid concession and confirmation to the aforesaid Abbot and their successors
will warrant and without fine.—Teste meipso.”
* It is right to state that these lists of baronies and barons, derived from the MSS. of Kenion and Percival, have no satisfactory
authority.—H. * Kuerden’s MSS., folio 271. 3 Harl, MSS. cod. 7386.
k .
§: -
§
CHAP. Iv. (The #istory of lancashire. 31 .
CHAPTER IV.
Territory of South Lancashire (between Ribble and Mersey), successively the Possession of Earls of Chester, of the
Ferrers Earls of Derby, and of Edmund Crouchback, first Earl of Lancaster—His son Thomas, second Earl,
executed, whose brother Henry, third Earl, was succeeded by his son Henry, fourth Earl, created first Duke of
Lancaster, and called “the Good Duke”—John of Gaunt, second Duke—Creation of the Duchy and its Privileges—
The County Palatine, its Chancery Court, etc.—A.D. 1128 to 1399. -
sº a
ºf URING the disturbed reign of Stephen, Ranulf or Randle “de Gernons,” the earl of Chester,
sº possessed himself of a third part of the whole realm of England," and amongst his possessions
º Ž º
%
were the lands ceded to his father between the Ribble, and the Mersey. From Ranulf or
Randle, the son, they descended to Hugh de Kevelioc, and Ranulf or Randle, surnamed “de
º - 7
w g
} § ~
• eN º Blundeville,” son of Hugh, and grandson of the second Randle. Ranulf de Blundeville, in 13
Jºãº) Henry III. (1228), had a confirmation from the king of all his lands between the Ribble and
3.
the Mersey, and was made chief lord, under the king, of the whole county of Lancaster, with all its forests,
hays, homages, and other appurtenances. At the same time he executed the office of sheriff by his deputies in
the third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and ninth years of that king. Ranulf paid down forty marks of silver for these
lands to Roger de Maresey, and afterwards two hundred marks more ; and agreed further to render annually, at
Easter, a pair of white gloves, or one penny, for all services whatsoever. This earl, after enjoying his pos-
Sessions for many years, died in 1231; and leaving no issue, his whole inheritance was shared by his four
sisters and co-heiresses. Maud, the eldest, married David, earl of Huntingdon, brother to William, king of
Scots; Mabil, the next, married William de Albini, earl of Arundel; Agnes, the third sister, married William,
Tarl Ferrers, the sixth in lineal descent from Robert de Ferrers, raised by King Stephen to the earldom of
Terby, for his prowess at the battle of the Standard, in the third year of the king (1137). The heirs of the
first earl of Derby were usually called Earls Ferrers, though they were likewise earls of Derby. This Agnes had
the castle of Chartley, in Staffordshire, and the lands in that part of Wales called Powis; and also the manor
of West Derby, and all Earl Ranulf's lands between the Ribble and Mersey; with Buckbrock in Northampton-
shire, and Navenby in Lincolnshire. In the eighth Henry III. (1223-4), William, Earl Ferrers, was constituted
governor of the castle and honor of Lancaster;" and the next year he executed the sheriff's office for this county
for three parts of the year, as he did likewise for the whole of the tenth and the eleventh years of the king's
reign (1225-7). In addition to £50 for the relief of the lands of his wife's inheritance, he and she were bound
to pay yearly a goshawk, or fifty shillings, into the king's exchequer, as had been usual for lands lying between
the rivers Ribble and Mersey. In 26 Henry III. (1241), he gave a fine of £100 to the king for the livery of
the three hundreds of West Derby, Leyland, and Salford, which had been seized into the king's hands for
certain misdemeanors of his bailiffs. This earl died on the 20th of September 1247, and his countess sur-
vived him only one month—they having lived together as man and wife seventy-seven years. William, Earl
Ferrers, son and heir of the above earl and countess, had livery of his lands and castle in the year 1247; and
the next year he obtained a mandate to the sheriff of Lancashire for the enjoyment of such lands between
Ribble and Mersey, as his uncle Ranulf, earl of Chester, formerly possessed. He also obtained a charter for
free warren, for himself and his heirs, in all his demesne, throughout his lordships in Lancashire and elsewhere.
Three years afterwards he procured a special grant from the king of such officers, for conservation of the peace
between Ribble and Mersey, as Ranulf, earl of Chester, formerly had ; which officers were maintained at the
expense of the inhabitants. By Margaret, his second wife, one of the daughters and co-heiresses of Roger de
Quincy, earl of Winchester, he had two sons; Robert succeeded him in the earldom of Derby, and settled
at Groley, in Leicestershire. This unfortunate earl took part with Simon de Montfort, and was deprived of
his earldom and all his estates in 1265; among which were all his lands between Ribble and Mersey. These
possessions Henry III. united with the honor of Lancaster, and gave to Edmund Crouchback, his youngest
son, who, by that king's creation, was the first earl of Lancaster.
* Nichols's Leicestershire, to which we have been much indebted * Dugdale's Baron. ex Pat. 8 Hen. III. m. 12. There were eight
for the historical materials relating to the illustrious house of Lan- earls of Derby of this family, whose name seems to have been
caster.—B. spelled Ferrars ; whilst that of their descendants, of Chartley,
Tamworth, and Groby, is usually spelled Ferrers.-H.






32 The pistory ºf Lancashire.
CELAP. IV.
EARIS OF LANCASTER
Edmund Crouchback was the distinguished favourite of his father; and on St. Luke's Day (October 18),
in the year 1253, the king convened many of his nobles, along with the bishop of Romania, who came to
him from Pope Innocent IV., and, having brought a ring from his Holiness, used it as a symbol to invest
Edmund with the dominion of Sicily and Apulia, whereupon he had the title of king of Sicily. This grant
produced some of the most important events in our history; amongst others, the association of the barons
against Henry III. ; the appointing of conservators of the peace in this and the other counties of England;
and the settling of the democratical part of our constitution on a permanent basis by Simon de Montfort,
earl of Leicester, while the king was his prisoner. Prince Edmund, about the same time that he took the
title of king of Sicily, was made earl of Chester. Upon Innocent's death, Alexander IV. confirmed Prince
Edmund in the grant of the kingdom of Sicily in due form; but Pope Urban IV., by a bull in 1263, revoked
the deed, and Edmund renounced the claim to the crown of that kingdom. The prince was amply compen-
sated for the loss of that imaginary power, for on the 4th of August 1265, his brother Edward having
defeated the earl of Leicester and his adherents in the battle of Evesham, the king, by his letters-patent,
bearing date the 25th of October, created him earl of Leicester, giving him there with the honor of Hinckley
and the stewardship of England. The next year he received from his royal father the honor, town, and
castle of Derby, with all the effects belonging to Robert de Ferrers, earl of Derby. In addition to other
grants, he received also the honor, earldom, castle, and town of Lancaster, with the forests of Wiresdale and
Lonesdale."
The following year the king announced to his knights, vassals, and other tenants of the honor of
Lancaster, that he had given to his son Edmund that honor, with the wards, reliefs, and escheats attached
to it. In the same year, during the king's residence at York, he issued a declaration, from which it appears
that, although he granted the possessions in the county of Lancaster to his son Edmund for his sustentation,
that grant was not to operate to the injury of Roger de Lancaster. The royal bounty was still further
extended in the following year by a grant from the king of possessions forfeited by the treason of Simon de
Montfort.” In the year 1284 Edward I., in an inspeximus, dated at Lincoln on the 18th of August, confirmed
the grant of the honor of Lancaster made by Henry III. to his brother Edmund, and forbids the sheriffs
of Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincoln, Nottingham, Leicester, Derby, York, Rutland, and Stafford, or their officers,
from entering the honor of Lancaster.”
\
* In a footnote on this page Mr. Baines gives the substance of
various royal grants, etc., to Edmund Crouchback, in the original
Latin, for which we have substituted an English translation of the
essential parts of these documents : —
1. (51 Henry III. 1266-67).-The king grants to Edmund, his
son, his castle of Kenilworth, and that he may have free chace
and free warren in all demesne lands and woods belonging to the
castle. -
2. (Idem).-The king grants to the forenamed Edmund the
honor, castle, and manor of Monmouth, with appurtenances.
3. (Idem).-The king grants to the forenamed Edmund the
castles of Grossemunde, Skenefrith, and Blaunchastel.
4. (June 30, 51 Henry III. 1267).-Henry, king, etc., grants,
etc., to our most dear son Edmund, the honor, earldom, castle,
and vill of Lancaster, with the vaccaries and forests of Wiresdale
and Lonsdale, and Newcastle-under-Lyne ; and the manor, castle,
and forest of Pickering; and our vill of Gounemecestr [Godman-
chester]; and the rent of our vill of Huntingdon, with all appur-
tenances. To have, etc., with knights’ fees, advowsons of churches,
charters, liberties, customs, and all other things, to the honor,
earldom, castle, vills, demesne, vaccaries, forests, and rent aforesaid,
appertaining, etc. Witnesses—John de Warren, earl of Surrey;
Humfrey de Bohun, earl of Hereford and Essex; Philip Basset ;
Roger de Somery; Alan la Rusche ; Stephen de Eddeworthe ;
Bartholomew le Bigod, and others. Given by our hand at St.
Paul’s, London, 30th June, in the 51st year of our reign [1267].
* Three more Latin documents are appended in notes to this
page, of which the following is the substance:— .
1. (52 Henry III. 1268).—The king, to the knights, freemen,
and all other tenants of the honor of Lancaster, greeting.
Whereas we have lately given to Edmund our son the aforesaid
honor, with wards, reliefs, escheats, and all other things appur-
tenant and belonging to that honor, etc. We command that to
the same Edmund and his heirs, in all things that to the same
honor belong, ye may be attentive (or maintenant) and answering.
Witness the king at Westminster, 8th February, 52d year of his
reign. [8th February 1268.]
2. (52 Henry III. 1268).-The king, etc. : Whereas we formerly
(or lately) committed to our beloved and faithful Roger de Lancas-
ter our county of Lancaster, with appurtenances, that he might
have its keeping while he lived, so that he rendered to us yearly
one hundred marks [æ66:13:4] to our exchequer; and afterwards
that county, with its appurtenances, we granted to our most dear
son Edmund towards his maintenance : We, willing in this respect
to the same Roger, make our special promise to him in good faith,
that in the premises we will preserve him free from any injury to
which he may be liable at times. Witness the king, at York, 15th
September, 52d year of his reign. [15th September 1268.]
3. (53 Henry III. 1269).-The king to all his bailiffs, etc.:
Whereas by our charter we have given and granted to our son
Edmund the honor, will, and castle of Leicester, and all the lands
and tenements of the same honor, with knights' fees and other its
appurtenances, which formerly belonged to Simon de Montfort,
earl of Leicester, our enemy, and which, according to the law and
custom of our kingdom, by the war which he excited against us in
our kingdom, and by the battle in which at Evesham he, our enemy,
was slain, became forfeit and escheated to us—to have, etc., to the
same Edmund for ever :—We, willing to show our grace more fully
to the same son, grant to him the stewardship of England, which
the same Simon formerly had, to have, etc., for the whole of his
life, with all things pertaining to the said stewardship, of our special
grace. Witness the king, at Windsor, 9th May, in the 53d year of
his reign. [9th May 1269.]
* This inspeximus of Edward I. recites the original grant of his
father Henry III., and confirms it —The king, etc. We have
inspected the letters which our father the Lord Henry [III.], of
renowned memory, made to our dearest brother Edmund, earl of
Lancaster, in these words:—“Henry, etc., to the sheriffs of the
counties [named in the text], and to all other sheriffs and stewards
in whose bailiwicks the honor of Lancaster exists, greeting.”
[After reciting the grant of the honor, etc., this confirmation
forbids the sheriffs enumerated either to enter themselves or to send
or permit their bailiffs to enter or intermeddle with anything
belonging to that honor, or to the men of the honor, unless re-
quired to do so by the bailiffs of his said son. If any of them or
their bailiffs should find or discover anything of those which to
CEIAP. IV. Oſije #i8tory of 3Lancashire, 33
These vast possessions laid the foundation of the future greatness of the house of Lancaster; the power
and influence of which increased to such a magnitude as ultimately to seat the family on the throne of these
realms. In 21 Edward I. (129I) Prince Edmund procured license to make a castle of his house in the parish
of St. Clement Danes, in the county of Middlesex, called the Savoy; and he founded that house of nuns of
the order of St. Clara, called the Minoresses, without Aldgate, in London. He also was the chief builder of
the Grey-friars house in Preston, in this county. This great earl, by Blanch, his second wife, daughter of
Robert, earl of Artois, (third son of Lewis VIII, king of France) and widow of Henry of Navarre, had three
sons—Thomas, Henry, and John, and a daughter. In 24 Edward I. (1296) being sent with the earl of
Lincoln and twenty-six bannerets into Gascony, they sat down before Bordeaux; but, seeing no likelihood of
its surrender, they marched to Bayonne. Here their army began to dissolve, on account of their treasure
being exhausted, and Prince Edmund became so much affected by the embarrassments of their situation, that
he fell sick and died, about the feast of Pentecost (May 13), 1296. . -
Thomas, earl of Lancaster, the eldest son and immediate successor of Prince Edmund, did homage in 26
Edward I. (1297-8), and had livery of his lands, except the dowry of Blanch, his mother. After this cere-
mony, he marched into Scotland through Lancashire, the king himself being in the expedition. Being sheriff
of Lancashire by inheritance, he appointed Richard de Hoghton his deputy in that office; in the next year he
was summoned to parliament by the king. In 4 Edward II. (1310), he married Alice, the sole daughter of
Henry de Lacy, earl of Lincoln, and, in virtue of that marriage, became possessed of the castles and lands
belonging to that distinguished house. With this accession of property, the earl of Lancaster became the
most opulent, as well as the most powerful subject in England, and possessed in his own right, and that of
his wife, no fewer than six earldoms, attended with all the jurisdictions and power which in that age, and
under the feudal system, were annexed to landed possessions. In the following year he was the chief of
those nobles who entered into a combination against Piers de Gaveston, the king's Gascon favourite, with the
avowed intention of defending the religion of the state, and restoring the people's liberties. Being made
choice of by the barons for their general, the earl of Lancaster sent messengers to the king, requiring the
delivery of Piers into their hands, or that he should be banished the realm. Such was the inveteracy of the
nobles against the royal favourite, that it is said that Henry de Lacy charged the earl of Lancaster upon his
deathbed that he should maintain his quarrel against Gaveston. This injunction the earl faithfully obeyed,
and, after a protracted struggle with the king, the earls of Lancaster, Hereford, and Arundel, having seized
Gaveston in the castle of Warwick, struck off his head without the formality of a trial. The king soon after
hearkened to terms of accommodation, and granted to the earl of Lancaster, and to the other delinquent
barons, pardon of their offence, stipulating only that they should, on their knees, ask his forgiveness in
public." With these mild conditions they very cheerfully complied, and, having made their submission, they
were again received into the royal favour. Gaveston was succeeded in the royal confidence by Hugh le
T]espenser, or Spenser, and by his father, a venerable nobleman, whose wisdom and moderation were not
sufficient to check the opposite qualities in his son. No sooner was Edward's attachment declared for the
Spensers, than the turbulent barons, headed again by the earl of Lancaster, concerted plans for their ruin,
and manifested their discontent by withdrawing from parliament. One gross act of injustice so alarmed the
earl of Hereford, that he complained to Thomas earl of Lancaster, who thereupon mustered a number of the
barons, with their adherents, at Shireburne; and from thence marched, armed and with banners, to St.
Alban's, with the determination to reform the administration of the government. The barons next marched
to London with all their forces, stationed themselves in the neighbourhood of that city, and exhibited before
the parliament, which was then sitting, charges against the Spensers, who were both of them at that time
absent from the country. These charges the lay-barons declared to be proved, and passed a sentence of
attainder and perpetual exile against the ministers. The commons, though now an estate in parliament, were
yet so little considered, that their assent was not required; and even the votes of the prelates were dispensed
with on the present occasion. To secure themselves against consequences, the barons obtained from the
king an indemnity for their illegal proceedings.” The following year the king raised a powerful army, with
which he marched into Wales, and so far recovered confidence in his own strength as to recal the Spensers.
|Many of the barons, considering their cause hopeless, sent in their submission; but the earl of Lancaster, in
order to prevent the total ruin of his party, Summoned together his vassals and retainers, and, having re-
ceived the promise of reinforcements, advanced with his forces against the king, who had collected an army of
thirty thousand men. The earl, being aware of the inferiority of his own force, despatched into Lancashire Sir
Robert de Holland (whom he had advanced from the humble office of his butler to the dignity of knighthood,
with a stipend of two thousand marks [#1333] per annum), to bring up five hundred men out of that county.
The required force was raised without difficulty, but the perfidious knight, instead of bringing them to the
that honor belong, they are without delay to render it to the reign.” (18th August 1268.)—We accept these letters ſpatent] for
bailiffs of his said son. They are not to distrain on any tenants of ourselves and our heirs in the form aforesaid, etc.
the honor, unless required by the bailiffs of the earl.] “Witness 1. Ryley, p. 538.
myself at Lincoln, the 18th day of August, in the 52d year of our * Tottle's Collect, part ii. p. 54.
F
34 Qſìje Đistorg of 3Lancagüirº. CHAP. IV.
earl, conducted them to the king. Finding himself disappointed of his levies, the earl marched to his castle at
Pontefract, the ancient seat of the Lacies. Having called a council of the barons by whom he was surrounded,
which sat in the Black-friars in Pontefract, they advised him to march to Dunstanburgh, in Northumberland;
but this advice he declined, and resolved to remain at Pontefract ; whereupon Sir Roger de Clifford, one of
his knights, drawing out his dagger, swore that he would plunge it into the breast of the earl, if he would not
submit to the counsel that had been given to him. Under the influence of these cogent arguments, the earl
quitted Pontefract, and marched to Boroughbridge, where, finding the country-people in arms, and William,
Lord Latimer, then governor of the city of York, and Sir Andrew de Harcla, Warden of Carlisle and the
Marches, ready to encounter him, the battle commenced without delay. The first discharge of arrows from
the archers of the royal army proved so fatal to the Lancasterian force, that the earl betook himself to a
chapel, which he refused to yield to Harcla, though he saw his force partly dispersed and partly destroyed.
Looking on the crucifix in the chapel, he said:—“Good Lord, I render myself to thee, and put myself into
thy mercy.” His prayers were unavailing; the royal forces entered the chapel, and the earl was made
prisoner. To add indignity to his misfortune, his enemies took off his coat of armour, and, putting upon him
one of his men's liveries, they carried him first to York, and afterwards to Pontefract, where he was pelted
by the mob, and confined in the tower of the castle. “Being brought into the hall, in the presence of the
king, he had sentence of death by these justices, viz. Aymer earl of Pembroke, Edmund earl of Kent, John
de Bretaigne, and Sir Robert Malmethorpe. His defence was not listened to by his judges, and the earl, in
the bitterness of his complaint, exclaimed—“Shall I die without answer?' After quitting the court, he
was exposed to fresh insults, and being set upon a wretched horse, without bridle, he was paraded through
the streets with a friar's hood upon his head. On his way to the place of execution, he cried—‘King of
heaven, have mercy on me ! for the king of the earth mous ad guerthi [hath abandoned us].” Having arrived
at a hill without the town, he knelt down towards the east, until Hugin de Muston caused him to turn his
face towards Scotland, when an executioner from London cut off his head.” . A number of the earl’s followers
were afterwards condemned and executed; others fled beyond the seas, and, for a time, the public tranquillity
was restored. His character is differently estimated. His partisans represented him as a saint ; his enemies,
as a sinner, and that of no ordinary magnitude: by the former he is said to have wrought miracles after his
death; by the latter he is described as a turbulent subject, an arbitrary master, and a faithless husband.
The just way to estimate his character is to make due allowance for the prejudices both of his friends and his
enemies; and the conclusion will then be, that he was a munificent benefactor to the poor, a devoted adherent
to his own order, and a man of more than ordinary mental powers; while, at the same time, he was ambi-
tious, incontinent, and disloyal. Many miracles were reported to have been wrought at the tomb of this earl
of Lancaster; and the people flocked in great numbers to the place of his execution, till the king, at the
instance of the Spensers, set guards to restrain them. So great indeed was the veneration paid to him, that
they worshipped his picture, which, with other things, was painted on a tablet in St. Paul's cathedral, London,
till the king, by his special letters to the bishop, dated from York, in June 1323, inhibited them from so
doing. Notwithstanding this inhibition, the memory of the deceased earl was cherished with the deepest
veneration; and it was generally believed, in that age of superstition, that, in addition to other miracles,
blood issued from his tomb. In the reign of Edward III, the king, in compliance with the wishes of his
subjects, presented a petition to the pope, beseeching him to grant canonisation to the departed earl Thomas;’
but it does not appear that this Saint was ever added to the calendar.
Ancient slander asserts that Alice, the wife of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, was repudiated by her
husband on account of her familiarity with Ebulo le Strange, a younger son of Lord Strange of Knockin.
However this may be, after the death of her husband, she was married by Ebulo without the king's license;
and all the lands of her inheritance, which were held of the king in capite, were seized and detained. This
confiscation was not relaxed till she delivered up those lands which lay in the counties of Lancaster, Chester,
and York, and gave the castle and lordship of Denbigh, in Wales, and also the castle of Bullingbrook, in the
county of Lincoln, and lands in other parts of the kingdom, unto Hugh le Despenser, the royal favourite. After
being divested of these immense possessions, the lands which she still held amounted to no less a sum in
annual value than 3000 marks [f 2000]. At the death of this lady, which occurred in 1348, all the lands of
that great inheritance, which descended to her from Henry de Lacy, late earl of Lincoln, by virtue of the grant
made by her father and by the grant of King Edward I., came to Henry, earl of Lancaster, afterwards the
duke of Lancaster; which lands lay in the Blackburn hundred, Rochdale, Tottington, and Penwortham,
in the county of Lancaster; Halton, in the county of Chester; Bowland and Snaith, in the county of York;
and divers other parts of the kingdom.
A household book of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, preserved in the records of Pontefract, and quoted by
Stow, exhibits a curious illustration of the manners and customs of the early part of the fourteenth century.
This book, kept by Henry Leicester, his cofferer, shows the amount of the disbursements of Thomas, earl of
Lancaster, in his domestic expenses for the year 1313, which were no less than £7359:13:03. At that
* Rot. Rom, et Franc, 1 Edw. III, [1327] n. 4 in Turr, Lond.
CHAP, IW.
(ſiſt #istºry of £antagjire. 35
time silver was of the value of one shilling and eightpence the ounce, or 20s, the lb. troy: his total expenses,
therefore, in one year, amounted in our money to about twenty-two thousand pounds—an immense amount,
When the great disparity in the price of provisions between that time and this is considered.
HOUSEHOLD BOOK OF THOMAS, EARL OF LANCASTER, IN THE YEAR 1313.
if S. d.
Charge of the pantry, buttery, and kitchen . e gº e * 3405 0 0
To 184 tuns 1 pipe of red or claret wine, and two tuns of white wine 104 17 6
To grocery . . . . . . . . . . . . 180 17 0
To 6 barrels of sturgeon g wº & e g * tº º e & º t te º g tº sº 19 0 0
To 6800 stock-fishes, so-called, and for dried fishes of all sorts, as lings, haberdines [Salted cod], &c. . * - © 41 6 7
To 1714 pounds of wax, Vermilion, and turpentine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314 7 44
To 2319 pounds of tallow-candles for the household, and 1870 of lights for Paris candles called perchers gº tº 31 14 3
To charge of the earl’s great horses” and servants' wages . tº e te e & t o º º g 486 4 3%
To linen for the earl and his chaplains, and for the pantry . te e º * g * º * g * 43 17 0
To 129 dozen [skins] of parchment, and ink . & {- º e § e & ſº e e e g & 4 8 3%
To 2 cloths of scarlet for the earl's use; one of russet for the bishop of Anjou ; 70 of blue for the knights; 28 for
the esquires; 15 of medley for the clerks; 15 for the officers; 19 for the grooms; 5 for the archers; 4 for the
minstrels and carpenters, with the sharing and carriage for the earl’s liveries at Christmas g º e ſº 460 15 0
To 7 furs of variable miniver, or powdered ermine, 7 hoods of purple, 395 furs of budge” for the liveries of barons,
knights, and clerks; 123 furs of lamb, bought at Christmas for the esquires . & * o © * e 147 17 8
To 65 saffron-coloured cloths for the barons and knights in summer; 12 red cloths for the clerks; 26 ray cloths for
the esquires, 1 for the officers; and 4 ray cloths” for carpets in the hall. g * § g e g ſº 345 13 8
To 100 pieces of green silk for the knights; 14 budge furs for Surcoats; 13 hoods of budge for clerks; 75 furs of
lambs for liveries in summer, with canvas and cords to truss them . * º © e * ſº g & 72 19 O
To saddles for the lord’s summer liveries º & * e & º º © © {j e ſº ſº & 51 6 8
To 1 saddle for the earl, of the prince's arms g © tº & º e & te & & t e º 2 0 0
To several items [the particulars in the account defaced] g e * e g tº & * g gº * 241 14 1%
To horses lost in the service of the earl. & & e e º * g © tº & ... • & * e 8 6 8
To fees paid to earls, barons, knights, and esquires e . g & g • e * e e & & 623 15 5
To gifts to knights of France, the queen of England's nurses, to the countess of Warren, esquires, minstrels,
messengers, and riders . tº e e e tº tº g e g tº iº & e ſº g ſº 92 14 0
To 168 yards of russet cloth, and 24 coats for poor men, with money given the poor on Maundy Thursday . tº 8 16 7
To 24 silver dishes; 24 saucers; 24 cups; 1 pair of paternosters; 1 silver coffer; all bought this year . g & 103 5 6
To diverse messengers about the earl’s business . . . e º G º e e * * º tº g 34 19 8
To sundry things in the earl's chamber. § & ſº ſº e * gº tº ſº * g º g º 5 0 0
To several old debts paid this year . . & o © wº * * > * tº g º iº & tº º 88 16 0;
The expenses of the countess at Pickering, in the pantry, buttery, kitchen, &c. . º ſe º ſº $ g 285 13 43,
In wine, wax, spices, cloths, furs, &c., for the countess's Wardrobe * & & * * gº g e & 154 7 4,
Total . £7359 13 0}
A MAXIMUM on the price of provisions was established by a royal proclamation in 1314, by which the
following rates were fixed:—
The best grass-fed ox alive, 16s; the best grain-fed ox, £1 : 4s. ; the best cow alive and fat, 12s. ; the best hog of two years
old, 3s. 4d. ; the best shorn mutton, 1s. 2d.; the best goose, 3d. ; the best capon, 2%d. ; the best hen, 1%d. ; the best chickens, 2 for
1}d. ; the best young pigeons, 3 for 1d. ; 20 eggs, 1d. This maximum, after existing for twelve years, was repealed in the year 1326.
Henry, brother and heir of Thomas earl of Lancaster, obtained a grant of the custody of the castles and
honor of Lancaster, Tutbury, and Pickering, 20 Edw. II. (1326), and in the following year an act was passed
for reversing the attainder of his unfortunate brother; whereupon he became possessed of all the lands and
lordships which had been seized on the death of his brother—namely, the earldoms of Lancaster and Leicester,
and all the other lands of which Edmund his father, and Thomas his brother, were formerly possessed. This
document, which is preserved in the national archives in the Tower of London, serves to shed much light
upon the local history of the age." The life of this earl was not remarkable for any great political event
1 The number of the earl’s horses was generally about 1500.
* Lambskin, dressed with the wool outwards.
3 Striped cloths.
4 ACT OF RESTITUTION.
A.D. 1327, 1st Edward III. (claus. 1 Edward III. p. 1, m. 3,
&n Turr. Lond.)—The king to his beloved Adam de Boghier, late
farmer of the manor of Berleye, in Co. York, greeting—Whereas
we have taken the homage of our beloved and faithful cousin [i.e.
kinsman] Henry, earl of Lancaster and Leicester, brother and heir
of Thomas, late earl of Lancaster, deceased, for all lands and tene-
ments which the same Thomas, his brother, held of the lord Edward,
late king of England, our father, in chief, on the day on which he
died, and we have restored to him those lands and tenements, and
have commanded that they be delivered to him. We, willing to
show special grace to the same earl in this respect, grant unto him.
all the issues and arrearages of the farms of the lands and tenements
which were those of the aforesaid Thomas, on the day on which he
died, etc. . [These issues and arrears, from the time when Adam
became farmer of the manor, he is to deliver in the aforesaid form,
being exonerated by the king.] Witness the king at Stannford, 23d
April [1327]. [Then follow the signatures or subscriptions of
various functionaries, high and low, of and within the honor of
Lancaster—viz.]
JOHN DE LANCASTER, custodian of the honor of Lancaster.
GEOFFREY DE WERBURTON, sheriff of Lancashire.
JOHN DE KYLVYNTON, custodian of the honor of Pykeryng.
ROBERT FONCHER, custodian of Melbourne & farmer of the honor
of Tuttebury.
WILLIAM DAVID the elder, ROBERT DE HILTON, & their fellows,
farmers of the vill of Tuttebury.
THOMAS DE ROLLESTON, farmer of the will of Rolleston.
PHILIP DE SOMERWILL, farmer of the manor of Barton.
RICHARD DE WYTHENHULL, NICHOLAS DE SALOPLA, & their fellows,
farmers of the manor of Adgersleye.
ROBERT LE HUNTE, JOHN DE VERNEY, & their fellows, farmers of
the manor of Utoxhather.
WILLIAM DAVID, farmer of the manor of Yoxhale.
JOHN DE KYNARDESEYE, farmer of the manor of Marchinton.
36 QThe #istory of £ancashire, CHAP. IV.
connected with the house of Lancaster. He left issue, by Maud, his wife, Henry, his son and heir, and six
daughters: Maud, married to William de Burgh, earl of Ulster, and afterwards to Ralph, son and heir of the
earl of Suffolk; Blanch, to the Lord Wake ; Eleanor, 1st to John de Beaumont, earl of Buchan, 2dly to
Richard, earl of Arundel, having the pope's dispensation for the same, on account of their affinity, and like-
wise because in his tender years he had contracted matrimony with Isabel, the daughter of Hugh le Despenser,
his kinswoman in the second degree of consanguinity; Isabel, abbess of Ambresbury; Jane, married to Lord
Mowbray; and Mary, to Lord Percy.
Henry, son and heir of Henry, surnamed Grismond, from the place of his birth, obtained, in 7 Edward
III.(1333), a grant from his father, dated at Kenilworth, 28th December, of the castle and town of Kidwelly,
with the whole territory of Carnwathland, etc., and in the 9 Edward III. (1335), he was in the expedition to
Scotland, at which time he gave such proof of his valour and military skill, that he obtained from the king a
grant of certain lands at Berwick-upon-Tweed, which had belonged to Peter de Kymeringham. On the 7th
of April 1336, he was made captain-general of the king's army in that realm; and in May following he
received the title of banneret. Two years afterwards he was advanced to the title and dignity of the earl of
Derby; having besides the annual fee of £20 per annum (usually given in lieu of the third penny of the pleas
of the county, which the earls anciently had), a pension of 1000 marks (£666:13:4), to be received yearly
during his father's life, out of the customs of London, Boston, and Kingston-upon-Hull, until the king should
otherwise provide for him in lands, or rents, of that value. Shortly after this, King Edward, designing to
clear the Isle of Cadsant of the garrison which the French had placed there, sent over this earl with con-
siderable forces; where, upon the first encounter, the gallant earl of Derby advanced so far, that he was
struck down, when, by the valour of the famous Sir Walter Manney, he was raised up, and placed out of
danger; the gallant knight crying, “Lancaster for the earl of Derby.”
In 16 Edward III. (1342) the earl was in another expedition into France, having with him of his
retinue 5 bannerets, 50 knights, 144 esquires, and 200 archers on horseback; and had for his wages in that
service an assignation of a hundred and eighty sacks of wool; taking for himself eight shillings per diem ;
for every banneret, four shillings; every knight, two shillings; every esquire, one shilling; and every archer,
sixpence. He had also the same year an assignation of 1000 marks for guarding the marches of Scotland.
In 18 Edward III. (1344) the earl of Lancaster was engaged in another expedition to the south of France;
and, according to Walsingham, after taking the strong town of Brigerac, he subjected no less than fifty-
six cities and places of note to the dominion of King Edward; and such was the terror of his name, that the
cry of “A Derby l’ “A Derby (* carried dismay into the enemy's camp. In this year of his great exploits,
his father died, as already mentioned, on which the earl of Derby succeeded to the honor, castle, and earldom
of Lancaster. The famous order of the Garter was first instituted in 1349; of which, next to the king,
Prince Edward was the first knight-companion, and the earl of Lancaster the second.”
After the siege of Poictiers, of which the earl of Lancaster, Derby, and Leicester was the hero, he was
appointed by the king, together with William de Clinton, earl of Huntingdon, Renaud de Cobham, Sir Walter
Manney, William Lovell, and Stephen de Consintone, to hear and determine all disputes relating ‘to arms.
At this time he had of his own retinue 800 men at arms, and 2000 archers, with 30 banners, and kept such
hospitality, that he spent a hundred pounds a-day. After the truce, it was found also that he had expended,
in those wars of France in which the battles of Crecy and of Poictiers were fought, about seventeen thousand
pounds sterling, besides the pay which he had from the king. In consideration whereof he obtained a grant,
bearing date from the camp before Calais, 21 Edward III. (1347), to himself and his heirs-male, of the castle
and town of Brigerac, which was one of the places he had taken by strong assault ; likewise of all the lands
and goods which he had taken at St. John d’Angelyn, until their ransom were satisfied; and soon after he
The PRIOR OF TUTTEBURY, farmer of the manor of Scrop-
ton.
HUGH DE MEINELI, the elder, ROBERT FOUCH, & their fellows,
farmers of the hundred of Appeltre.
ROBERT FOUCH, JoBN DE DENUM, & their fellows, farmers of the
manors of Beaurepeir, Doffeld', Heigheg', Holebrok, Suthewode,
Wyneleye, Holond, Newebiggynge, Edricheshay, Alrewasseleic,
& Coldebrok, with the members.
JoBN DE KYNARDESEYE, WALTER WALTESHEF, & their fellows,
farmers of the wapentake of Wirkesworth & Assebourne, with
the members.
LAURENCE COTERELL & his fellows, farmers of the lead-mines of
the same wapentake.
NICHOLAS DE HUNGERFORD, farmer of the quarry of Roweclif.
THOMAS DE RADECLIVE, HENRY DE BEK, farmers of the manor of
Spoudon.
WILLIAM COKENY, farmer of the borough of Asshebourne.
GILBERT HENRY DE YOXHALE, farmer of the hundred of Gres-
cleie.
EDMUND DE ASSHEBY, keeper of the fees of the honor of Lancaster,
in the counties of Lincoln, Notyngham, Stafford’, & York, & of
the manors of Wadinton & Alkeberugh.
JOHN DE WYWILL, farmer of the manor of Ridelinton.
RICHARD DE WHATTON, late farmer of the courts of Bothemeshull
& Crophull, in the county of Notingham.
MARY, countess of PEMBROKE, for the manor of Hegham.
WILLIAM TRUSSEL, escheator on this side [i.e. south of] Trent.
SIMON DE GRYMESBY, escheator beyond [i.e. north of] Trent.
ODO DE STOK, late keeper of the castle of Kenilworth.
* Sir John Froissart's Chronicles, liv. i. chap. 30.
* The number received into this order consists of twenty-five
persons, besides the sovereign ; and as it has never been enlarged,
the value of this badge of honourable distinction continues unim-
paired. The particular cause of its origin is unknown ; but a story
prevails, that the mistress of King Edward, at a court ball, dropped
her garter, and the king, taking it up, observed some of the courtiers
to Smile significantly, as if they thought he had not obtained the
favour by accident : upon which he exclaimed, Homi Soit qui mal y
pense (Evil be to him that evil thinks); which was adopted as the
motto of the order.
CELAP. IV. Cije 39tstorg of 3Lancashire. 37
procured another grant to himself and his heirs-male, of Horeston Castle, in the county of Derby, and the
annual rent of forty pounds, issuing out of the town of Derby. Soon after this he was constituted the king's
lieutenant and captain-general in the parts of Poictou ; and, to crown his dignities, and to reward his merit,
the title of Duke of Lancaster was conferred upon him by the king. .
DUKES OF TANCASTER,
Henry, the first duke of Lancaster, having received his title to the dukedom by the general consent of
all the prelates and peers then sitting in Parliament at Westminster, for his life, he was invested therewith
by cincture or girding of a sword; with power to have a chancery in the county of Lancaster, and to issue
out writs there, under his own seal, as well touching pleas of the crown as any other relating to the common
laws of this realm ; as also to enjoy all other liberties and regalities belonging to a county palatine, in as
ample a manner as the earl of Chester was known to have within that county. About this time likewise he
was constituted admiral of the king's whole fleet, from the Thames westward.
In the Harleian MSS. in the British Museum' a document is preserved, containing the names of some of
the principal and subordinate officers of the Duchy of Lancaster, with a list of the salaries paid for their
services, of which the following is a translation:—
Fees and Wages of the Officers within the King's Duchy of Lancaster, made in the 22d of the Reign of Edward IV. (1482).
* LANCASTER, with its Members.
Richard, duke of Gloucester, head-steward there, per ann. º º gº g g º ſº jº & ſº . 6l. 13s. 4d.
Thomas Molineux, constable of the castle of Liverpool . * § t tº & * tº º ge g . 6l. 13s. 4d.
The same, head-forester of Simon's Wood, and King's parker of Croxteth . * * g d ſº ſº * e 70s. 4d.
The same, high-steward of West Derbyshire and Salfordshire . {} g tº t © * g & tº tº 100s. 0d.
Thomas, Lord Stanley, receiver of the county of Lanc. per ann. e tº is g * º & e * . 6l. 13s. 4d.
Hugh Worthington, forester of Quernmore . te * e e ſº ſº e * g e . . . 4!. 11s. 0d.
Two foresters of Wiresdale, each of them per ann. 308. 4d. º * ſº a e te tº gº tº tº g 60s. 8d.
Richard Pilkington, keeper of the park of Hyde and Fulwood, per ann. . º * e gº e g ſº º 30s. 4d.
Thomas, Lord Stanley, parker of the park of Toxteth e e * º * º * * * e o 60s. 8d.
Thomas Richardson, one forester of the Wood of Mirescough . e e g tºº. * e º ſº e * } 60s. 8d.
John Adamson, another forester of the same wood, per ann. . * * t tº tº ſº * * e & 60s. 8d.
Two foresters in Blesedale, per ann. g e * 9 º e º e tº e tº g e g e 30s. 4d.
Sir James Harrington, knt.; seneschal of Lonsdale and Amounderness . & * o & is g e . 4!. 4s. 0d.
The same Sir James, keeper of the park of Quernmore, per an. tº * * *. e tº g & º tº 45s. 6d.
Thomas Thwayte, chancellor of the county palatine of Lanc. . º º p e ſº tº tº e e . 407. 0s. 0d.
Sir H. Fairfax, knt., chief justice of the king at Lanc. per ann. g tº ſº ſº * t g g e . 267. 13s. 4d.
Richard Pigot, another king's justice at Lanc. per ann. . ſº © º g g tº & tº e e . 237. 6s. 8d.
John Hawardyn, king's attorney-general at law there, per ann. e * º & & º e g & . 6l. 13s. 4d.
John Lake, clerk of crown pleas tº & º ſº © e s * & 40s. 0d.
John Bradford, clerk of common pleas . e º e tº º tº º e i. e § * * * 40s. 06.
John Lake, William Bradford, and John Bradford, clerks of the crown in Co. Lanc. in time of sessions, for their
wages for 40 days, each of them 28, per day. . & e º tº tº tº tº e * 0s. 0d.
Ranulphus Holcrofte, baron of the King's Bench at iancaster, per aim. . º º g tº $º * A. os. oº.
Thomas Bolron, crier of all sessions and courts of the king, within the county of Lanc. per ann. º * º 40s. 0d.
Thomas Ratcliff, Esq., constable of the king's castle of Lancaster, per ann. . . º º & g g 13]. 6s. 8d.
Thomas Barowe, master-mason of the king's castles, within the counties of Lancaster and Chester . ſº g . 127. 3s. 4d.
Peter Wraton, king's carpenter at Lancaster, and clerk of the king's works there . e e in tº g . 7l. 3s. 8d.
Total . ſº º & & º & tº * :6200 183, 20.
CLYDEROWE, with its Members.
Richard, duke of Gloucester, steward of the lordship of Penwortham e ‘ t in g e & g g º 20s. 0d.
Thomas, lord Stanley, receiver of the lordship of Clyderowe . & t & g * * tº e º . 6l. 13s. 4d.
Brian Talbot, constable of the castle of Clyderowe . § o ſº g © * e g º º . 107. 0s. 0d.
Roger Banaster, porter of the castle there, per ann. . tº: º & & g º e • • e © $º 40s. 8d.
John Cays, parker of the park of Musbury, per ann. e tº º, º g & g º g & g g 30s. 4d.
John Talbot, parker of the park of Ightenhull, per ann. . e e tº g & & ſº º e i- º 40s. 8d.
Robert Harington, parker of the park of Radam, per ann. tº º tº * * g e * e & & 30s. 4d.
John Hunter, keeper of the chace of Trowdon, per ann. . tº e e • g g e º o º e 40s. 8d.
Richard Shrobury, keeper of the park of Lathegryne, and paler of the same . 3. g $ * e g † 45s. 6d.
t Total . . . . . . . . . .22 is. 6d.
The duke of Lancaster, deeply imbued with the chivalrous spirit of the age in which he lived, obtained
a license from the king to proceed to Syracuse to fight against the infidels. To guard against the possible
consequences of this crusade, he obtained a royal grant, providing, that in case he should depart this life
before his return, his executors should retain all his estates, castles, manors, and lands in their possession,
until his debts were discharged. On his journey he was taken prisoner in Germany, and constrained to give
three thousand scutes of gold for his liberty. This surprisal was made at the instance of the duke of
Brunswick; and learning, before he came to his destination, that the Christians and the pagans had made a
1 Cod. 433, fo. 317 a. * The scute was of the value of half-a-noble, or 3s. 4d., so that 3000 scutes represent £500.
38 - (ſiſt ºigtúrg of £antagüirº. CHAP. IV.
truce, he returned to Cologne, where he observed “that it did not belong to a person of the duke of Bruns-
wick's rank to deal with a stranger in the manner that the duke had dealt with him; that he had never
offended him ; and that if the duke thought proper to interfere with his concerns, he would find him ready
to play a soldier's part.” This conversation having been communicated to the duke of Brunswick, he sent
the duke of Lancaster a letter of challenge to meet him at Calais in single combat. The duke of Lancaster
accepted this challenge with alacrity, and taking with him fifty knights and a large retinue, he proceeded
towards the scene of action. A rencounter between two personages of so much distinction excited the
deepest interest both in France and England; and great efforts were made, but without success, to reconcile
the combatants without an appeal to arms. On the appointed day they entered the lists, and having
taken the usual oaths, mounted their horses for the combat. In the moment of trial, the courage of the
duke of Brunswick failed him, and he quitted the quarrel, and submitted himself to the award of the king
of France. The king and his court, who were to have witnessed the combat, now became the mediators, and
at a great feast reconciled the dukes to each other.
Henry, who, for his deeds of piety, was styled the “Good duke of Lancaster,” out of his devout respect
to the canons of the collegiate church at Leicester, permitted the priests to enclose their woods, and stored
them with deer out of his own parks. After this time he received special command from the king to keep a
strict guard upon the sea-coasts of Lancashire, and to arm all the lanciers who were raised in his territories
for the public service. In 31 Edward III. (1357) John, king of France, having been taken prisoner by Edward
the Black Prince, was brought into this country. The captive monarch became the guest of Henry duke of
Tancaster, in his stately palace in the Savoy, which he had completed at the expense of fifty-two thousand
marks (£34,666), obtained at the taking of Brigerac. The duke of Lancaster, having terminated his career
of military renown, devoted himself to works of piety; and
“By a deed, bearing date the second of January, in the 35th of Edward III., he gave to the monks at Whalley, in this county,
and to their successors, two cottages, seven acres of land, one hundred and eighty-three acres of pasture, two hundred acres of wood,
called Ramsgrove, all lying in the chase of Blackburn ; likewise two messuages, a hundred and twenty-six acres of land, twenty-six
acres of meadow, and a hundred and thirty acres of pasture called Standen, Holcroft, and Grenelache, lying within the townships
of Penhulton and Clitheroe, with the fold and foldage of Standen, to support and maintain two recluses in a certain place within the
churchyard of the parochial church of Whalley, and their successors recluses there; as also two women-servants to attend them
there, to pray for the soul of him the said duke, his ancestors and heirs; that is to say, to find them every week throughout the
year seventeen loaves of bread, such as usually were made in their convent, each of them weighing fifty shillings sterling ; and
seven loaves of the second sort, of the same weight; and also eight gallons of their better sort of beer; and threepence for their
food. Moreover, every year, at the feast of All Saints, to provide for them ten large fishes, called stock-fish ; one bushel of oatmeal
for pottage; one bushel of rye; two gallons of oil for their lamps; one pound of tallow for candles; six loads of turf, and one load
of faggots, for their food; likewise to repair their habitations; and to find a chaplain, with a clerk, to sing mass, in the chapel
belonging to these recluses, every day; and also all vestments, and other utensils and Ornaments, for the same chapel; the
nomination of successors, upon deaths, to be in the duke and his heirs.
This “good duke of Lancaster,” by his will, bearing date at the castle of Leicester, the 15th of March,
35 Edward III. (1361), wherein he styles himself duke of Lancaster; earl of Derby, Lincoln, and Leicester;
steward of England, and lord of Brigerac and Beauford, bequeathed his body to be buried in the collegiate
church of our lady of Leicester. He only survived the making of this testament nine days. At that time a
plague raged in England, which, in allusion to the great plague in 1349, Barnes calls the “Second plague,
nothing near,” says he, “so dismal and universal as the former, but much more destructive to the nobility and
prelacy.” Thus died the great, valiant, and liberal prince Henry Plantagenet, March 24th, 1361. He left
issue by Isabella, his wife, daughter of Henry lord Beaumont, two daughters, his heirs: Maud, twenty-two
years old, first married to Ralph, son and heir of Ralph lord Stafford; and after to William of Bavaria, son of
Lewis the emperor; and Blanch, nineteen years old, married to John of Gaunt, earl of Richmond, fourth son
of King Edward III. Maud, the elder, had for her purparty an assignment of the manors in the counties of
Berks, Leicester, Northampton, Rutland, and Huntingdon, and also the lordship of Beauford and Nogent in
France. -
And to John earl of Richmond, and Blanch his wife, “whose homage was then taken by reason of issue between them, the
castle and town of Pontefract; the manors of Bradeform, Almanbury, Altofts, Warnfeld, Rothewell, Ledes, Roundehay, Scoles,
Berewyck, Kepax, Aberford, Knottingley, with the mills there; Beghale, Kamsale, Ouston, Elmesdale, Akworth, and Staincros;
the bailiwick and honor of Pontefract; a certain rent called castle ferme, with the pleas and perquisites, also the manors of Kriteling
and Barlay; except such lands therein as were held for life (the reversion to the said duke), the castle of Pickering, with the soke
and all its members; the manors of Esyngwold and Scalby, with the members, all in the county of York; the wapentakes (or rather
hºndreds) of Leyland, Amunderness, and Lonsdale ; the manors of Oves-[? Ulnes]-walton, Preston, Singleton, Riggeby, and Wra,
Overton, Skirton; the towns of Lancaster and Slyne ; the royal bailiwick of Blackburnshire, the office of master-forester beyond
Ribbel; the vaccary of Wyresdale, likewise the manors of Penwortham, Totyngton, and Rachedale; the wapentake of Clyderhowe,
with the demense lands there ; the lordship of Bowland, the vaccary of Bowland and Blackburnshire; the forest of Blackburnshire
and the park of Ightenhull, with the appurtenances in Blackburnshire; all in the county of Lancaster. The castle and manor of
Dunstanburgh, with the manors of Shoplaye, Stamford, Burton, and Emeldon ; also the fishing of Tweed, in the county of Nor-
thumberland. The manor of Hinckley, with the bailiwick there, in the county of Leicester; the castle and manor of Kenilworth,
with the pool and mill there ; the manors of Wotton, Shrewle, Radesle, and Ashtul, with their appurtenances, in the county of
Warwick; the manors of Halton, Ronkore, More, Whitelawe, Congleton, Keleshole, and Bedestan; the bailiwick of Halton ; the
town of Wyndenes [Widnes], sergeanty of Wyndenes, in the county of Lancaster. In addition to these great lordships and lands,
there was a further assignment made unto the earl of Richmond, and Blanch his wife, of the manors of Coggleshul, Cridelyng,
Bailey, Kilbourne, Toresholme, Marthesdon, Swamyngton, Passenham ; likewise certain lands in Daventre and Hinkele, with the
mills of Lilleborn ; also the manor of Uggele, in the county of Essex.
#
CHAP. IV. Qſìje #igturn of £ancagüire, 39
John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, was born at Gaunt (Ghent), in Flanders, from whence he derived his
surname, between the 25th and 31st of March 1340; and on the 20th of September 1343, he was created
earl of Richmond, having therewith a grant in tail general of all the castles, manors, and lands belonging to
that earldom, and all the prerogatives and royalties which John, late duke of Britany and Richmond,
enjoyed." In 1355 he attended the king, his father, on an expedition into Flanders, and in 1357 had a grant
in special tail of the castle and lordship of Lydell, in the county of Northumberland. Having obtained a
dispensation from Rome, he was married at Reading, in Berkshire, to his cousin, the lady Blanch, second
daughter and co-heir of Henry Plantagenet, duke of Lancaster. In 1361 he obtained a special charter for
divers privileges to himself, and his heirs by Blanch his wife—namely, return of writs, pleas of Withernam.”
felon's goods, etc. in all the lordships and lands whereof he was then possessed, with freedom for himself and
his heirs, and all the tenants and residents upon the lands, and fees which belonged to Henry, earl of Lancas-
ter, from all manner of tolls of what kind soever, throughout the whole kingdom. The same year having
issue by his wife, and doing his homage, he had an assignation of her property in all the lands whereof her
father died possessed. And, by virtue of the king's license, he obtained a further grant from John bishop of
Lincoln, Richard earl of Arundel, and others, to himself, his wife, and their issue, of the castle of Bolingbroke,
with the park, knight's fees, and advowsons of the churches thereto belonging, together with other manors in
the counties of Stafford, Northumberland, and Derby. In 1362, upon the death of Maud, the widow of
William, duke of Bavaria, without issue, he had, in right of the said Blanch, the sister and heir of Maud, all
the possessions appertaining to her moiety of the estate of Henry, duke of Lancaster, deceased. Whereupon
he was in parliament declared duke of Lancaster,” in right of his wife Blanch; and the king girt him with a
Sword, and set on his head a cap of fur, and a circlet of gold with pearls therein; and created him duke of
Lancaster, with all the liberties and regalities of an earl palatine; as also earl of Leicester, Lincoln, and Derby,
with the office of high-steward of England. In 1366, after having been empowered to vest several of his
estates in feoffees, in order to make a settlement on his lady, and to discharge some pecuniary incumbrances,
the duke of Lancaster joined his brother, Prince Edward, at Bordeaux, on behalf of Don Pedro, king of
Castile, who, owing to an insurrection of his subjects, fled into Gascony for aid. On breach of the truce in
1369, he was sent with a considerable force to give battle to the French ; being retained to serve the king
for half-a-year with 300 men-at-arms, 500 archers, 3 bannerets, 80 knights, and 216 esquires; but owing to
sickness amongst his soldiers, he did not venture to make the attack. On his return from Calais to England,
he found that his wife, the lady Blanch, had been taken off by the great pestilence, and that she had been
interred with great funeral pomp in St. Paul’s cathedral.
In 1370, the duke of Lancaster was again engaged in an expedition into Gascony; and Peter the cruel,
king of Castile and Leon, whom Edward, prince of Wales, had invested in his kingdom, having left at his
death two daughters, who, to avoid the usurper, their uncle, had taken refuge in Gascony, he married
Constance, the elder of the sisters. Soon afterwards he assumed the title of king of Castile and Leon, and
supported his claim by force of arms, but without success. He impaled also the arms of Castile and Leon
with his ducal coat. On his return to England, in 1372, the duke was empowered to surrender to the king
his father his earldom of Richmond, with all the castles, manors, etc. to the same belonging, in exchange for
numerous other manors in the counties of York, Norfolk, Suffolk, Huntingdon, and Sussex. Soon afterwards
he headed two formidable expeditions against France, both of which failed. In 1377, he obtained the manors
of Grenested, Seford, and Leighton, with several privileges in the same, and the castle and honor of Tikhill.
He had license also to give his lordships of Gryngeleye and Wheteley to Catherine Swinford, his concubine
(widow of Sir Hugh Swinford, knight, and daughter of Sir Paen Roet, knight, Guyen king of arms), for life.
Turing this year he procured the grant of a chancery in his dukedom of Lancaster, with all other
royalties pertaining to a county palatine, to hold in as ample a manner as the earl of Chester ever enjoyed the
same ; with an obligation of sending two knights to parliament as representatives of the commonalty of the
county of Lancaster, with two burgesses for every borough within the said county." He had license also to
1 Cart. in officină ducatás Lancastriae.
* When a distress is removed out of the county, and the sheriff,
upon a replevin, cannot make deliverance to the party distressed.
8 By the deed of creation, dated 36 Edward III. (1362), the king,
in consideration of the growing activity and praiseworthy deeds of
his dearest son, John, earl of Lancaster, gives to the earl the name
and honour of duke, and appoints him to be duke of Lancaster, and
invests him with the same title and honour by girding him with a
sword, and the placing of a cap of dignity on his head. To have
and to hold the same title and honour of duke of Lancaster to him
and his lawful heirs-male for ever. This grant is witnessed by
Simon, archbishop of Canterbury, William of Winchester, chan-
cellor, S. of Ely, treasurer, bishops; Richard, earl of Arundel,
Robert of Suffolk, Thomas, de Vere, our chancellor of Oxford, earls;
Edward le Despenser, Ralph de Nevill, John de Nevill, John atte
Lee, steward of our household, and others. Given by our own
hand in full parliament, at Westminster, 13th November, 36th of
our reign (1362).
* By this grant the king, after praising the prowess in war and
wisdom in council conspicuous in his son, and also the probity,
activity, and excelling wisdom of his dearest son John, king of
Castile and Leon, duke of Lancaster, etc., and being desirous to
reward these high merits, of his certain knowledge and cheerful
heart, with the assent of his prelates and nobles now assembled in
parliament at Westminster, grants to the same John, for the whole
of his life, that he may have within the county of Lancaster his
chancery and his writ under his seal as record from the office of
chancery, his justiciars, as well for pleas of the crown as for what-
soever other pleas may be held at common law, and recognisance
thereof, the issuing of executions by his writ and his officers of the
same chancery, and whatsoever other liberties and jura regalia,
appurtenant to the county palatine, as entirely and freely as the
40 (Iſiſt #istºrg of 3Läntääijire. CHAP. IV.
coin money for the space of two years, from the 12th of June (1377), in the city of Bayonne, or the castle of
Guyssen, or any other place within the seneschalcy of Landere, of gold, silver, or any other metal whatsoever.
In this year (1377) John Wickcliffe, the most eminent of all the Lollards of that time—the “morning-
star of the Reformation,” as he has been beautifully called—being convened before the archbishop of Canter-
bury, the bishop of London, John duke of Lancaster, and Lord Percy, at the Black Friars, in London, the
duke had the magnanimity to speak in favour of Wickcliffe, and to make Some strong observations upon the
bishops. So unusual a departure from the orthodoxy of the day gave great offence to the episcopal bench,
and produced so much discontent among the citizens, that they rose in tumult, and determined to murder the
duke, and to set fire to his house in the Savoy. This tumult, the bishop of London, much to his honour,
succeeded in quelling; but the duke of Lancaster was obliged to seek his safety in flight, and it was not till
after the death of his father that a reconciliation was effected between him and the citizens of London, under
the mediation of Richard II. After the death of Edward III. consultation being had about the solemnity of
the coronation of King Richard II. John, king of Castile and Leon, duke of Lancaster, appeared before the
king in council, and claimed, as earl of Leicester, the office of seneschal of England; as duke of Lancaster,
the right of bearing the principal sword, called the curtana, on the day of the coronation ; and as earl of
Lincoln, to carve for the king sitting at table on the day of his coronation. Diligent examination being
made before certain of the king's council concerning these demands, it sufficiently appeared that the duke, as
holding by the law of England, after the death of Blanch his wife, had established his claim ; and it was
agreed that he should exercise the offices by himself, or proper deputies, and receive the fees thereunto
belonging. Accordingly, on the Thursday before the coronation, which was on the Thursday following, by
order of the king, he sat judicially, and kept his court in the Whitehall of the king's palace at Westminster,
and there received the bills and petitions of all such of the nobility and others as, by reason of their tenure,
or otherwise, claimed to do service at the new king's coronation, and to receive the accustomed fees and
allowances." He was also, with Edmund earl of Cambridge, and certain bishops, appointed one of the
protectors of the king during his minority. - - -
In 20 Richard II. (1378-9) the duke obtained authority to establish a treasury, with barons and other
proper officers, within his duchy of Lancaster.” .
In this early period of our history, personal slavery prevailed to a greater extent in England than in
any other country of Europe.” The barons had struggled for liberty, and had, to a certain extent, secured
its possession from the crown by the deed of Magna Charta, extorted from King John, and confirmed by
Henry III. and Edward I. But this liberty was almost exclusively enjoyed by the privileged classes, who
themselves exercised despotic power over their vassals. The rights of those who tilled the ground and per-
formed the other duties of humble citizens were imperfectly understood and subject to daily violation; and
so unequal was the pressure of taxation, that the rich and the poor were confounded together in one in-
discriminate mass, and called upon (1378) to pay a poll-tax, amounting to three groats on every individual
throughout the land, male and female, above the age of fifteen years. The collection of this unequal and
odious impost produced a rebellion, excited by John Ball, a popular preacher, and led by Wat Tyler, Jack
Straw, and others. The duke of Lancaster, one of the king's ministers, and who was supposed to be his
principal adviser, became extremely unpopular; and the insurgents, having broken into the city of London,
burnt down the duke of Lancaster’s palace of the Savoy and cut off the heads of a number of gentlemen
who attempted to resist their lawless outrages ; amongst whom was Simon Sudbury, the primate and
chancellor of England, and Sir Robert Hales, the high-treasurer. This insurrection was suppressed by the
determined conduct of Walworth, the lord mayor of London, who resented the insolence shown towards the
king on the part of Wat Tyler, by a violent blow with his sword which brought him to the ground, where
earls of Chester have theirs within the county of Chester. Tenths, etc., Richard grants to his said uncle that he may have a chancery
fifteenths, and other quotas and subsidies, by the commonalty of
our kingdom, and tenths and other quotas by the clergy of the
Same, we grant and impose, as the same are granted and imposed
by the apostolic See ; and pardons for life and members, in cases
where, in that county, for any offence, life or limb is forfeit, etc.
Our Same son, at our mandate, shall cause to be sent to our parlia-
ments and councils, two knights for the commonalty of the said
county, and two burgesses for every borough within the said county,
etc. Witness the king, at Westminster, 28th February [51 Edward
III. 1377] by the king himself, with the assent of the entire parlia-
ment.—(Rymer, tom, iii. pt. iii. p. 1073. Ed. recent.)
* A portrait of John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, in this Capa-
city, is preserved in the Cottonian MSS. in the British Museum.
* Though it is stated in the text that this grant was made in the
second regnal year of Richard II., it appears by the deed itself that
it was in his thirteenth year; and therefore not in 1379 but in 1390.
After reciting by inspeximus the charter of Edward III. granting
to our dearest uncle John the title and honour of duke of Lancaster,
for life within the county, and in short confirms all that is granted
by the former charter. It enlarges the grant by authorising the
duke to have approved faithful and efficient men for collecting the
tenths, fifteenths, subsidies,; etc. And that he may have justices
itinerant, and for the pleas of the forest within the said county.
And further that he may have his exchequer in the said county, and
barons and other necessary officers in the same exchequer, as well
as whatever jurisdiction, executions, and customs are reasonably used
in the exchequer of England. The duke and his heirs to have and
hold all and singular liberties, and the appointment of justices
for the pleas of the forests, excepting those pleas in which the king
is a party, and all tenths, fifteenths, etc. Witnesses: the arch-
bishop of Canterbury, the bishops of London and Winchester (the
chancellor); The dukes Edward of York, Thomas of Gloucester,
(our uncles); the earls Richard of Arundel, William of Salisbury,
Henry of Northumberland ; Richard le Scrope, John Devereux,
steward of our household, and others. Given at Westminster by
our hand 16 February, 13th of our reign (1390).
* Froissart, liv. ii. chap. 74.
CHAP. IV. The pistory of Lancashire. 41
he was soon despatched by others of the king's attendants (1381). Richard, taking advantage of the
temporary panic, contrived to conciliate the people, and, by his wisdom and moderation, prevailed upon them
to disperse. During this insurrection, the duke of Lancaster was in Scotland negotiating a peace, in which
he happily succeeded. On this occasion, William, earl of Douglas, with a degree of generous forbearance
which seldom fails to obtain its reward, told the duke that he had been acquainted from the first with the
distracted state of England, but was so far from wishing to take advantage of the critical situation in which
the duke and his country were placed, either for carrying on the war or extorting more favourable terms of
peace, that he might remain in Scotland as their guest, until the insurrection should cease ; or, if he chose
to return, he might have an escort of five hundred horsemen. The duke expressed his acknowledgments,
but declined the offer. On his return to England, being excluded from Berwick by the governor, he
accepted the earl's pledge of honour, and returned into Scotland, where he remained until the popular tumult
had subsided. In 1384 the duke of Lancaster was despatched, with a powerful military and naval force, to
Scotland, to avenge the injuries which the English had received and to prevent a repetition of them, by some
memorable act of chastisement. The duke advanced to Edinburgh, and at the same time the fleet was
despatched to ravage the coast of Fife. His soldiers strongly urged him to burn the capital, but the duke,
cherishing a grateful remembrance of the hospitality which he had experienced three years before, preserved
the city from destruction." A little before Easter in 1384, John Latimer, an Irish Carmelite friar, charged
the duke of Lancaster with an intention to destroy the king and to usurp the crown; but on being summoned
to meet this accusation, the duke completely established his loyalty. The king, being under the guidance of
evil councillors, resolved upon the death of the duke of Lancaster; but private information having reached
him from one of those that were in the plot, he retired to his castle at Pontefract, and through the medi-
ation of the Princess Joan, mother of the king, a perfect reconciliation took place. The next year he desired
leave of the king, and also of the lords and commons in parliament, to go into Spain for the recovery of his
wife's inheritance ; and ordained his son, Henry, earl of Derby, his lieutenant of all he had in England,
placing around him a safe and judicious council. When he took his leave, the king presented him with a
coronet of gold, and the queen gave another to his wife; orders were also given that he should be addressed
by the title of “king of Spain.” His train consisted of no less than a thousand spears of knights and
esquires, two thousand archers, and a thousand tall yeomen. Having landed in Britany, near the castle of
Brest, he was resisted by two of the forts, in the assault of which he lost many of his men ; but he ultimately
triumphed, and, having sailed with his fleet to the Garonne, he marched to the Spanish frontier and carried
the town of Bayonne. After this, the king of Castile sent to him to treat of a marriage between his daughter
and the duke's son; and, through the mediation of the duke of Berry, a truce was concluded. In 1388 the
duke was appointed lieutenant of Aquitaine. -
The disputes which had so long existed in Spain concerning the right to the kingdom of Castile and
Leon, were at length amicably settled by an agreement that Henry, eldest son of John, king of Castile and
Leon, and of Portugal, should marry Catherine, the duke's only daughter, by his wife Constance ; and that
the duke should quit his claim to Spain on condition of receiving, for his own and daughter's life, a yearly
payment of 16,000 marks, and, in case his wife should survive him, that she should have annually 12,000
marks (£8000). The duke returned to England in November 1389 with much treasure; for it is said that he
had forty-seven mules laden with chests of gold for his second payment, and several great men of Spain, as
guarantees for his future annuity. On his return he relieved Brest, in Britany, then besieged by the French.
In the following year (1390) he was created duke of Aquitaine by the consent of the lords and commons of
England, on which occasion a splendid cap was put upon his head, and a rod of gold was given to him, to
hold his new dignity of the king of England, as king of the realm of France. In 13 Richard II. (1390) he
obtained a further confirmation of the privileges of his duchy of Lancaster, in the appointment of a chancery
court there, with the power to issue writs under his own seal ; likewise an exchequer, with barons and other
necessary officers, and power to make justices itinerant for the pleas of the forest, etc.” His attachment to
his favourite Catharine Swinford remained unaltered, notwithstanding the disparity of their stations; and,
after the death of his second wife, Constance, he married her at Lincoln, on the octaves of the Epiphany
(1395), at which, say the Chroniclers, there was no little admiration in regard to her low birth.
“This woman was born in Henault, daughter of a knight of that country. She was brought up in her youth in the duke of
Lancaster's house, and attended on his first wife, the Duchess Blanche of Lancaster; and in the days of his second wife, the
Duchess Constance, he kept the aforesaid Catharine as his concubine, who afterwards was married to a knight of England, named
Swinford, that was now deceased. Before she was married, the duke had by her three children, two sons and a daughter. One of
the sons was named Thomas de Beaufort; and the other, Henrie, who was brought up at Aken, in Almaine, proved a good lawyer,
and was afterwards bishop of Winchester. For the love that the duke had to these his children, he married their mother, the said
Catharine Swinford, being now a widow, whereof men marvelled much, considering her mean estate was far unmeet to match with
his highness, and nothing comparable in honour to his other two former wives. , And indeed, the great ladies of England, as the
duchess of Gloucester, the countess of Derby, Arundel, and others, descended of the blood royal, greatly disdained that she should
be matched with the duke of Lancaster, and by that means be accounted second person in the realm, and preferred in room before
them, and thereof they said that they would not come in any place where she should be present, for it should be a shame to them
1 Buchanan : Rerum Scotiarum Historia, lib. ix. cap. 45. * See note 2, page 40, supra.
G
42
(The ºigtorg of £antagüirº.
CHAP. IV.
that a woman of so base a birth, and concubine to the duke in his other wife's days, should go and have place before them. The
duke of Gloucester also, being a man of an high mind and a stout stomach, misliked his brother matching so meanly; but the
duke of York bare it well enough ; and verily the lady herself was a woman of Such bringing up and honourable demeanour, that
envy could not in the end but give place to well deserving.”" . . - -
Three years after his marriage, in a parliament convened at London, he procured an act for legitimatising
the children whom he had by Catharine Swinford; and in another parliament, held in September in the
same year, called the great parliament, the earl of Arundel was, by the duke of Lancaster, who sat that day
as high steward, condemned of treason, and beheaded on Tower-hill. During this parliament the earl of
Derby was created duke of Hereford. Soon after the duke of Lancaster attended King Richard into France,
being with him at Guynes, upon the meeting then had with the king of that realm, when peace was made by
Richard II. marrying Isabel, daughter of the king of France, then only eight years old. In the same year
(1396-97), the duke of Lancaster had a renewal and amplification of the privileges of his duchy of Lancaster.”
He also obtained the hundreds of Southgrenhow and Laundishe, in the county of Norfolk, which had come
into the king's hands by the attainder of the earl of Arundel. In 1398, after obtaining from the king an
ample renunciation of all claim on any part of his inheritance, with a confirmation of the dower of the
castles of Knaresbrough and Tickhill to Catharine his wife, and a settlement of the manor of Bradford and
Almondbury on his son John Beaufort, marquis of Dorset, he was constituted lieutenant in the marches
toward Scotland, from the beginning of the twenty-eight years' truce between that country and England. In
October, Henry of Bolingbroke, the duke's son, received sentence of banishment ; and from that period, this
disgrace produced the most pungent sorrow in the mind of his venerable father, who was soon afterwards
seized with a fatal illness, and died. His death was much lamented by his friends; but neither the king nor
the people sympathised in their sorrow. He was interred with great funeral pomp near the body of Blanch,
his first wife, for whom and for himself he had erected, soon after her decease, a sumptuous monument,
surmounted with the ducal arms.
An inscription was afterwards placed on a pensile tablet, which, after enumerating his various titles and honours, states that
He was thrice married, first to Blanche, daughter and heir of Henry, duke of Lancaster, by whom he received a most ample
inheritance; secondly, to Constance (who is buried here), daughter and heir of Peter, king of Castile and Leon, in whose right he
was entitled to use the title of king, etc. She bore him one daughter, Catharine, who had children by Henry, king of Spain. His
third wife was Catharine, of a knightly family, and a lady of extraordinary beauty, who bore him a numerous progeny, of which
stock by the mother's side Henry VII., most prudent king of England, married one, whose felicitous marriage with Elizabeth,
daughter of King Edward IV. of the house of York, united the royal families of Lancaster and York and restored peace to England.
This illustrious prince John named Plantagenet, king of Castile and Leon, duke of Lancaster, earl of Leicester, Lincoln, and Derby,
Lieutenant of the king in Aquitaine and High Steward of England, died in the 22d year of the reign of Richard II. and A.D. 1399.
The bequests of John, duke of Lancaster, were numerous and munificent ; but the largest portion of his
estates descended to his only surviving son and heir by Blanch of Lancaster. Throughout his life, the duke
of Lancaster surpassed all the great men of his age in power and fortune; but he was not so universally
respected as his brother the Black Prince, the good duke of Lancaster, or his eldest son, Henry of Bolingbroke,
earl of Derby. Some defects in the moral character of John of Gaunt, his haughty carriage towards inferiors,
and his public support of Wickliffe the reformer, added to his want of success in arms, contributed to lower
him in the public estimation; though his readiness on all occasions to apply his ample fortune in the discharge
of his public duties, and his zeal in the cause of his country, served to rank him amongst the most illustrious
of her benefactors. -
The ducal family of the house of Lancaster, had, by its marriage alliances, become connected with many
of the most powerful barons of the kingdom, and Henry of Bolingbroke, the representative of this house after
the death of his father, John of Gaunt, impelled partly by his wrongs, but principally by his ambition, was
about to wrest the sceptre from the feeble hands of his royal cousin, and to ascend the throne of England
almost without a struggle. By this act of usurpation the seed was sown for the long and sanguinary intestine
wars between the rival houses of Lancaster and York, which served for so many years to deluge the country
with blood.
1 Holinshed, p. 485.
* This is an exemplification and full confirmation of preceding
charters, as in 1st Richard II. And further, for the greater security
of the duke, the king declares and grants to him that he may have
all fines for transgressions, etc., for agreeing to grant license, and
all issues and forfeitures of all men, tenants and residents in his
lands, and fees, and whatsoever fines, “year, day, and waste,” in
whatsoever courts of the king, and what by the hands of his officers
may be levied for fines and amercements aforesaid. And that he
may have, in the aforesaid lands and fees, assise of bread, wine, and
ale, etc., and other things which belong to the office of clerk of the
markets, and fines, etc.; so that the clerk of the king's markets be
not injured. And that he may have the chattels of felons and
fugitives, the return of all writs, summonses, and precepts of the
King, etc., and their execution, so that no officer of the king be
injured thereby. And if it happen that the officers of the duke be
amerced in the king's courts for negligence, etc., such fines and
amercements may be to the duke. And that he may have the
chattels [or cattle] called “waif and stray,” deodands, treasure-
trove, and the chattels called “manu opera,” etc. [This last term
has two meanings : 1. Stolen goods taken upon a thief, ap-
prehended in the fact; and 2. Cattle, or any implements used to
Work in husbandry. Most probably it is here intended in its
former sense.]—H.
CHAP. v. The history of Lancashirt. 43
CHAPTER W.
Character of Henry Plantagenet, Earl of Derby and Duke of Hereford—His Quarrel with the Duke of Norfolk, and
Banishment—Elevated to the Dignity of Duke of Lancaster on the Death of his Father, John of Gaunt—Returns
to England—Expels Richard II, from the Throne—Elevation of the noble House of Lancaster to the Royal
Dignity—Possessions of the Duchy of Lancaster separated from the Crown Possessions—Establishment of the
Duchy Court—Abolition of the Duchy Court of Star Chamber—History of the Duchy continued—Its Courts,
Chancellors, Officers, etc.—Ducatus Lancastriae, from the Harleian MSS.—A.D. 1380 to 1860.
*N*@ENRY PLANTAGENET, surnamed of Bolingbroke from the place of his birth, was in character
YVºx diametrically the reverse of his sovereign, King Richard II. His talents were of a superior
order; his manners were popular, and even fascinating; and his ambition led him to aspire
to a higher station than that of the first subject in the realm, which his father had so long
) occupied.
tº gº º In the fourth year of the reign of Richard II. (1380-1), Henry was betrothed, with the
consent of the king, to Mary de Bohun, the younger daughter and coheiress of Humphrey de Bohun, late earl
of Essex, Hereford, and Northampton, and hereditary constable of England. In 1385, he was summoned to
parliament by the title of Henry, earl of Derby. In the eleventh year of the reign, Henry was engaged with
the duke of Gloucester in the éðmbination against the king's ministers, at which his Majesty took great
offence; but Richard was afterwards reconciled to him, and in the 21st year of his reign (1397-8), we find
the king “sitting in royal majesty, holding in his hand a rod, and making his cousin, Sir Henry of Lancaster,
earl of Derby, a duke, by the title of duke of Hereford.” This reconciliation was, however, short-lived ; a
violent quarrel having arisen between the duke of Hereford and the duke of Norfolk, which terminated in an
appeal to arms, the king availed himself of this opportunity, with the advice of his council, of which the duke
of Lancaster, father of the duke of Hereford, was at the head, to send them both into exile. In some of the
versions relating to this memorable duel, it is represented, that Henry, duke of Hereford, lodged the infor-
mation against Thomas, duke of Norfolk; but Sir John Froissart, a contemporary writer, states the matter
differently, and more probably, by representing that the secret of the confidential conversation between the
duke of Hereford and the duke of Norfolk was divulged by the latter; and this construction is supported by
the more severe sentence passed upon that duke, “because he had sowen Sedicion in this realme by his
woordes, whereof he could make no profe.” -
The nation was highly incensed by the king's behaviour to the duke of Hereford, who was the darling
of the principal peers, of the city of London, and of the people. They held that he had committed no crime,
and had been condemned without trial; that by his banishment they were deprived of their best protector;
and they thought themselves by that event exposed to all the malice and indignation of an incensed and
vindictive tyrant. As the duke passed through the city of London on horseback, on his leaving the kingdom,
he was followed by more than 40,000 people, who cried after him, and bewailed his fate and their own in the
most moving manner. He was accompanied on this occasion by trumpets and instruments of music, and with
the more melting sounds of universal lamentation. The mayor of London, and others of the principal citizens,
followed him to Deptford; and some accompanied him as far as Dover, in his way to Calais. On the duke's
arrival at Paris, he was very graciously received by the Court of France; where he was soon offered in
marriage the only daughter of the duke of Berry, uncle of Charles VI. To prevent this union, King Richard
sent the earl of Salisbury, his ambassador to the Court of France, where the earl represented the duke
of Hereford as a person guilty of traitorous designs against his prince; upon which the treaty of marriage
proceeded no farther. After his departure, he received letters from his father, advising him rather to go into
Castile than into Hungary; but the duke of Lancaster becoming sick, his son continued in Paris, where the
news reached him of his father's death. The king, availing himself of the exile of the duke of Hereford, now
become duke of Lancaster, seized the possessions of his father, John of Gaunt, into his own hands, and
lavished them with his usual profusion upon his favourites. Shortly after this time, the king was obliged to
embark for Ireland, to suppress a rebellion which had arisen in that oppressed country; and, during his
absence, England fell into great distraction. In this exigency, the people of London sent for their favourite
Henry, duke of Lancaster, promising him their assistance, if he would accept of the government. With such
encouragement, and aided by the duke of Britany, he took shipping at Le Port Blanc, and landed at Raven-
1 Froissart.

44 (The #istory of 3Lantagijire. char. v.
spur, at the mouth of the Humber, in Yorkshire, where he was met by a number of nobles in the north, and
their followers. On his arrival at Doncaster, he found himself at the head of a considerable army, and the
common people in all places greeting his return with enthusiasm. The injustice practised towards him by the
king, in first banishing him from the realm without proof of guilt, and then seizing upon his patrimonial
inheritance, in violation of his letters-patent, excited the indignation of the nation towards the oppressor, and
their sympathy and enthusiasm in favour of the oppressed. His march through the country was a triumph;
everywhere the castles yielded to his summons, and on his arrival at Bristol his forces were augmented to
60,000. To oppose this formidable force, the duke of York, who had been left viceroy of the kingdom during
the king's absence, assembled an army of 40,000 men at St. Alban's ; but their attachment to the royal cause
was so lukewarm, that they went over to the duke of Lancaster, on his representation that he sought not the
subversion of the throne, but the recovery of his paternal possessions, which the king had seized, on the death
of his illustrious father. The intelligence of this invasion reached the king when he was in Dublin, on which
he hastened back into England, and landed in Wales; where, finding that he was almost totally forsaken, he
went on to Conway Castle, in the county of Caernarvon. The duke, on hearing of the king's arrival, marched
to Chester. From thence he despatched the earl of Northumberland to the king, who proposed that a parlia-
ment should be called, to remove the grievances of which the country complained, and particularly to arbitrate
between the king and the duke of Lancaster. Richard, scarcely aware of the danger by which he was
menaced, consented to an interview with the duke of Lancaster. In this way he became his prisoner, and
was, under various pretences of friendship and loyalty, conducted to London. To give an air of justice to the
ultimate designs of the duke, he caused a parliament to be convened under the authority of Richard, by which
parliament the king was declared to have forfeited his throne by extortion, rapine, and injustice. Being thus
deposed by the suffrages of two estates of the realm, the throne was declared vacant, and the head of the
noble house of Lancaster ascended the throne of these realms, by the style and title of Henry IV. On
receiving this dignity before the assembled parliament, the new monarch crossed himself on the forehead,
and, calling upon the name of Christ, said— sº.
“In the name of Fadher, Son, and Holy Ghost, I Henry of Lancaster, challenge this rewme of Yngland, and the croun, with all
the membres, and the appurtenances; als I that am descendit by right line of the blode, coming fro the gude lorde King Henry
therde, and throghe that right that God of his grace hath sent me, with help of kyn and of my frendes to recover it; the which
rewme was in poynt to be ondone by defaut of governance, and undoing of the gude lawes.”
A tradition had prevailed amongst the vulgar, that Edmond Crouchback, earl of Lancaster, son of
Henry III., was really the eldest brother of Edward I., but that, owing to some deformity in his person, he
had been supplanted in the succession by his younger brother ; and as the present duke of Lancaster inherited
from Edmond by his mother, this genealogy constituted him the true heir to the throne. This was, however,
a topic rather to be insinuated than declared, and the best grounds of Henry's claim were the misrule of his
predecessor, and the affections of the people over whom he was himself called to govern.
Henry duke of Lancaster being now seated upon the throne of England, the unfortunate Richard was
sent to the duke's castle at Pontefract. Here he was detained in confinement for some time ; but so short is
the distance between the throne and the grave of a deposed monarch, that his life was speedily terminated,
either by the hand of the assassin, or the more protracted misery of famine. Richard's reign being thus
terminated, his successor turned his attention to the appointment of his new officers. The office of high-
steward, which he possessed in right of his earldom of Leicester, derived from the Lacys, he conferred upon
his second son, Lord Thomas, whose incapacity, from his nonage, was supplied by the earl of Worcester;
while the office of chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster was given to John Wateringe, a divine of considerable
influence with his royal master. Mr. Justice Blackstone, in his Commentaries, observes, that “the county
palatine, or duchy of Lancaster, was the property of Henry Bolingbroke, the son of John of Gaunt, at the
time when he wrested the crown from King Richard II. and assumed the title of King Henry IV.” But this
is a mode of expression at variance with the usual accuracy of that distinguished writer's style, and would
seem to imply that the county palatine of Lancaster and the duchy of Lancaster are co-extensive, and that
the terms are convertible. This, however, is by no means the case—the county palatine being confined to the
county, while the duchy of Lancaster, as we have already intimated, and as we shall speedily show more
specifically, comprehends not only the county of Lancaster, but many other portions of the kingdom. It has
been justly observed by Plowden,” in the celebrated “Duchy of Lancaster Case,” 4 Elizabeth (1562), and by
Sir Edward Coke, in his fourth Institute, that the new monarch was well aware, that “he held the duchy of
Lancaster by sure and indefeasible title, but that his title to the crown was not so assured: for that, after
the decease of Richard II, the right of the crown was in the heir of Lionel, duke of Clarence, second son of
Edward III. ; John of Gaunt, father of Henry IV. being but the fourth son.” One of his first measures
after ascending the throne was, therefore, to pass an act, Sanctioned by parliament, ordaining that his eldest
son Henry should have and bear the name and title of duke of Lancaster, in addition to his other titles (of
prince of Wales, duke of Aquitaine and Cornwall, and earl of Chester); and that neither the inheritance of
1 Knyghton, p. 2757; Rot. Parl. III. 422. * Vol. i. intro, sect. 4, p. 118. 3 P. 215. 4 P. 205.
§
#
CHAP. V. The #ígtorg of ilantashire. 45
his duchy of Lancaster, or its liberties, should be changed, transferred, or diminished, through his assumption
of the royal dignity; but that they should retain their distinctive character and privileges, and be governed
in like manner, as if he had never attained the royal dignity. It was further directed, that all ecclesiastical
benefices in the said duchy should be conferred by himself and his heirs, so that the (lord) chancellor, treasurer
or other officers of the state, should not interfere, by reason of their respective offices, with the collection or
preservation, or even with the visitation, of benefices within the duchy; and that all receivers, bailiffs, and
other servants of the duchy, etc., should appear before certain special auditors and ministers, and not before
the treasurer and barons of the king's exchequer, and account and answer for profits and benefits of the
duchy, without any interference of the treasurer and barons. (See Roi. Parl. III. 428.) -
Steadily pursuing the principle here laid down, it was by a subsequent act" ordained, that the right of
succession to the duchy of Lancaster after the king's death should belong to his eldest son, Henry, prince of
Wales, and his heirs; and in default of heirs to Thomas, his second son, and that the ancient rights, statutes,
and customs of the duchy, should be maintained and observed inviolate. Having thus fixed the succession
to the property of the duchy by all the force of legislative enactments, the next care of the king was to
establish a court, called the duchy court of Lancaster, in which all questions of revenue and council, affecting
the duchy possessions, might be decided. This court is now held at the duchy office in Westminster; thence
issue all patents and commissions of office or dignities, all orders and grants affecting the limits and revenues,
and all acts of authority within the duchy. It is also a court of appeal from the chancery of the county
palatine of Lancaster, which court is a court of equity for matters of equity arising within the county of Lan-
caster,” and is held at Preston. The record-office of the duchy of Lancaster, where the deeds are deposited,
has been frequently changed: within living memory, Gray's Inn, Somerset House, and Great George's Street,
has each in succession afforded them a depository; but the office now seems permanently fixed within the
precinct of the ancient ducal residence of the Savoy, in Lancaster Place, Waterloo Bridge, London, of which
bridge the southern arch abuts against his Majesty's inheritance of the duchy of Cornwall, and the northern
against his inheritance of the duchy of Lancaster. The duchy chambers at Westminster being within the
precincts described in old statutes as a royal residence, the proceedings are dated before his Majesty, “at his
palace at Westminster,” and not, as other royal acts, at the personal residence of the monarch. In this court
he is not only presumed to be present, as in others, but to be personally acting by the advice of his chancellor,
and other ministers, for the affairs of his duchy.”
When that intolerable nuisance, the court of star-chamber, existed, in contravention of the provisions of
Magna Charta, which direct that no freeman shall be deprived of his liberty or property but by lawful
judgment of his peers, the duchy of Lancaster had also its star-chamber, and the chancellor of the duchy and
council of his court punished without law, and decreed without authority; but this power was swept away
by the act 16 Car. I. (1640–41), which ordained, that from the first of August 1641, this power should be
abolished in every court within the realm, and that from henceforth no court should exercise the jurisdiction
of star-chamber." Two years after the succession had been settled upon Prince Henry and his heirs, the manor
of Brotilby, and fee of La Haye, in the county of Lincoln, with the wardship of the castle of Lincoln, formerly
in the possession of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, and which now remained in the hands of the king, through
the forfeiture of Thomas, son of Thomas, earl of Kent, was incorporated with his inheritance of Lancaster, as
parcel of the duchy; and it was ordained that it should descend to his heirs, and that all the tenants of
these possessions should be governed in the same manner and by such officers as the other lordships and
manors of the inheritance.”
Soon after Henry W. ascended the throne (in 1414), he confirmed the acts of his royal father with regard
to the duchy of Lancaster; and it was directed, with the sanction of parliament, that all the liberties and
franchises of this duchy should in all things be maintained and exercised for ever, according to the tenor of
the charters already granted, and that the seal hitherto used in the duchy, and all matters under that seal
which had hitherto been given and granted, should have force, without the reclamation of the king, or his
officers; and that the seal of the duchy should be used for ever, in transacting the business of the duchy.
As several honors, castles, and manors, which were the inheritance of Mary, one of the daughters and heir-
esses of Humphrey de Bohun, earl of Hereford, Essex, and Northampton, whose heir the king was, had
descended to him by hereditary right, the king separated all these possessions from the crown, and incorporated
them with his duchy of Lancaster, appointing that they should be administered by the officers of the duchy,
as they had been accustomed to be ; and that the vassals and tenants of this inheritance, and the resiants
within the same, should enjoy the liberties and franchise of the duchy. He also ordained that all ecclesias-
tical benefices attached to the duchy inheritance should be conferred under the seal of the duchy, without
the interference of the chancellor and treasurer of England. To render this ordinance complete, it was further
directed that all the castles, honors, and lands, which had come into possession of the king's father, Henry
1 8 Hen. IV. 1406-7. - * 2 Lev. 24. 4 Rot. Parl. 16 Car. (1640) p. 2, nu. 6.
3 The duchy of Lancaster office is now (1867) in Lancaster Place, * Act of 10 Henry IV. (1409).
London, W.C. The records of the duchy are now deposited there.
46 - Çiſt ºigtúry of 3|ancashire. CHAP. W.
IV., in consequence of a grant made in the first year of his reign (1400), as to escheats, forfeitures, and
recovery, should be incorporated with the duchy, and that any other honors, castles, or manors, which had
come by escheats, forfeitures, or recovery, should also be joined to the duchy, and that they should be ruled
and governed by the officers and ministers of the duchy, under the sanction of the duchy seal."
In the third year of the reign of Henry W. (1415) it was directed that two of the chief seneschals
(stewards) of his inheritance for the time being, besides the number of guardians limited by form of statutes,
should act in all the counties of the kingdom, and that they should exercise their office of seneschal in all
commissions of the peace, and that no donations, pardons, or releases, which concerned in any manner the
duchy of Lancaster, or that emanated therefrom, should be valid except under the seal designed for the
duchy. Two other acts, the first passed in the ninth year of Henry W. (1421) and the second in the first of
Henry VI. (1422-3), annex other possessions of the Bohun family to the duchy of Lancaster.
It was the misfortune of Henry VI. to be deeply involved in debt; and his expectation that two Lanca-
shire knights would remove all his embarrassments, by the discovery of the philosopher's stone I was not
sufficient to prevent his creditors from urging their demands in a tone little suited to the refinement of a
court. To satisfy these demands, he was driven to the expedient of mortgaging, for five years, the revenues of
the duchies of Lancaster and Cornwall, and the terms of this mortgage, as given in the 18th Henry VI. (1440)
sufficiently indicate the importunity of the royal creditors, and the petulancy of the king under their demands.
The revenues of the duchy having reverted to the king, as duke of Lancaster, an act was passed in the
39 Henry VI. (1460-61), appointing that there should appertain to the duchy one chief steward and one
auditor in the northern parts, and one other chief steward and one other auditor in the southern parts, with
one chancellor, one receiver-general, and one attorney-general in and of all the duchy, with one chief-steward,
and one attorney-general in the county palatine of Lancaster. While the mortgage existed, several new
offices had been created, but by this act those offices were abolished as burdensome in fees and unnecessary
for use. Hitherto the archives of the duchy had been lodged in the church and priory of St. Bartholomew,
in West Smithfield, London, much to the annoyance of the prior and his convent. On a representation that
the church had become much occupied and encumbered with “divers great chests containing the books” of
the duchy of Lancaster, and that divine service was interrupted by the entrance of ministers, under colour of an
examination of the books, and that no little disturbance was created thereby, the king directed that the prior
and convent, and their successors, should be exonerated from the custody of the said books and documents;
and the officers of the duchy were ordered to remove their chests, with their contents, out of the priory into
the Tower of London, or into such other place as might be found convenient to deposit them (1460).”
Although the court of the duchy of Lancaster was instituted in the early part of the reign of Henry
IV, no post-mortem inquisitions are registered in this court earlier than the first of Henry W. (1413). The
duty of collecting and arranging the inquisitions has been performed by the direction of his Majesty's
commissioners of public records, and a list of these inquisitions is published along with a list of the
pleadings, consisting of bills, answers, depositions, and Surveys, relating to the suits in that court, in two
volumes, entitled “Ducatus Lancastriae.” These volumes are thus described by the persons charged with
the duty of collecting and arranging the materials:—
“According to the returns made to the select committee of the House of Commons in the year 1800, the INQUISITIONs Post
MoRTEM in this repository then found amounted to 2400, beginning with the first year of King Henry W. (1413), and ending with
the eighteenth year of King Charles the First (1642). A more recent investigation has shown their number to amount to 3569;
which it has also been found necessary to put in a better state of arrangement, and to clean, repair, and bind them in volumes.
The PLEADINGs consist of bills, answers, and depositions and surveys, in suits exhibited in the duchy court, commencing with the
first year of King Henry VII. and are continued to the present time. (Signed) “R. J. HARPER.
- - JOHN CALEY.
Dated “Office of the Duchy of Lancaster, 1823.” . WM, MINCHIN.”
The Inquisitions and Pleadings contain a great fund of local information; but they would, in the most
condensed form, occupy an inconveniently large space in our county history; and the necessity for their
insertion is materially diminished since the Ducaſus, thanks to the liberality of parliament, is presented to
many of the public libraries in this kingdom, and is therefore easily accessible: suffice it to say, that the
records, of which the Ducatus exhibits little more than an index, are to be found in the duchy record office, in
London ; and their number, as far as regards the county palatine of Lancaster, stands thus:—Inquisitions
Post Mortem, in vol. i. 2105; in vol. ii. (Nil). Pleadings in vol. i. 1594; in vol. ii. 1589.—Total 3183.
The hostility of the house of York to the house of Lancaster did not extend to the revenues of the duchy,
for no sooner had Edward IV. ascended the throne than he confirmed all the charters and liberties of the
duchy of Lancaster, in a manner the most ample, except that he joined the duchy inheritance to the
crown.” Henry VII, not to be outstripped by a member of the rival house, enacted, in the first year of his
1 Act 2 Henry V. (1414). 2 39 Henry VI. (1460). Lords Spiritual and Temporal, and of the Commons, being in this
* AN ACT FOR INCORPORATING AND ALSO FOR CONFISCATING present parliament, and by the authority of the same, that the
THE DUCEIY OF LANCASTER, TO THE CROWN OF same Henry, late called King Henry the Sixth, for the considerations
ENGLAND FOR EVER (1 Edward IV—1461). of the great, heinous, and detestable matters and offences before
“It is declared and adjudged by the assent and advice of the specified by him, committed against his faith and ligeance to our
CELAP. W.
(Iije #igturn of 3Lancashire. 47
reign (1485), that all the lands of the duchy of Lancaster which had been alienated from that inheritance in
the reign of Edward IV. should be re-invested in the king and his heirs for ever, as amply and largely, and in
like manner, form, and condition, separate from the crown of England, and possessions of the same, as the
three Henries, or Edward IV., or any of them, had and held the same. Ever since the period when Henry IV.
mounted the throne of England, the duchy of Lancaster has indeed always been considered by the reigning
monarch as one of the richest gems in the crown, though for state purposes it has been kept separate and
distinct from the regal revenues and possessions. When the act for regulating the order of wards and liveries
was passed, a special proviso was introduced, to guard against the royalties, liberties, and jurisdictions of the
county palatine and the duchy of Lancaster suffering prejudice; and when Henry VIII. had impaired the
revenues of the duchy of Lancaster by a number of gifts, grants, and sales, indemnity against the consequences
of these alienations was found for the king, as duke of Lancaster, by a grant from parliament (in 1545) of the
manor of Ripon and its dependencies in the county of York, and of the vaccary in the forest of Ashedowne,
with its rents and manors in the county of Sussex, both of which were attached to the duchy, and the
revenues received and accounted for as duchy lands. The example set by the father was closely and speedily
imitated by his children ; and in the time of Philip and Mary the duchy possessions were restored to their
former extent by an act expressed in these very significant terms:–
“AN ACT FOR THENLARGYNG OF THE DUCHIE OF LANCASTRE.
“Forasmuche as the Kyng and Quene our sovereigne Lorde and Ladyie, considering and regarding the state of the Duchie of
Lancastree, being one of the most famous Princeliest and Stateliest peeces of our said Sovereigne Ladie the Quenes aungyent
Enheritance, doo poeyve and consider that the Possessions and yerely Revenues of the said Duchie arre and have been of late
greatlye diminished, as well by reason of Sundry Giftes, Grante and Sales, made by the late Kinges of famous memorye, Henry
theight and Edoarde the Sixte, late Kings of Englande, Father and Brother to our said Sovereigne Ladie the Quenes Highnes, as also
by reason of sundrie Exchainges made with dyvers their loving Subjectes, of Sundry Manors, Landes, Tentes, Possessions, and
Hereditaments, lately belonging to the same Duchie ; and the Manors, Landes, Tentes, Possessions, and Hereditaments, being
recey'ved and taken in recompence of the said Exchanges, bee not annexed to the said Duchie, but been in thorder Svey and governance
of other Courtes and Places, so by theyr Highnes taken and recey'ved in Exchange; And forasmuche also as theyr Maties doo mynde
and intende to preserve, avaunce, mayntaine, and contynue thauncient and honourable Estate of the said Duchie ; Our said
Sovereigne Lord and Ladye therfore bee pleased and contented that yt be enacted, ordeyned, and established by their Maties with
thassent of the Lordes Spuall and Temporall, and the Comóns in this pnte pliament assembled, and by thauctoritee of the same,
That all Honors, Castels, Lordeshippes, Manors, Landes, Tenementes, Possessions, and Hereditamentes within this Realme of
Englande, weh at any tyme synce the xxviijth daye of Januarie, in the first yere of the Reigne of our saide late Sovereigne Lorde
Kynge Edoarde the Sixte (1547), were pcell of the Possessions of the said Duchie of Lancastre, or weh were united and annexed to
the said Duchie by aucthorite of pliament fres Patentes or otherways, and weh at any time since the sayd xxviij daye of Januarie,
have been given, granted, alyenated, bargayned, solde, exchanged, or otherwayse severed from the said Duchie, by our said late Sove-
reigne Lord King Edoarde the Sixte, or by our Sovereigne Lady the Quene that now ys, or by our Sovereigne Lorde and Ladie the
King and Quenes Maties that now bee, to or wth any pson or psons, and weh sayd Honors, Castles, Lordshippes, Manors, Landes,
Tentes, and Hereditamentes, since such Giftes, Grants, Alienacons, Bargaynes, Sales, Exchanges, or Severance thereof so made
as is aforesaid been, cómon, or returned agayn to thandes of our said late Sovereigne Lorde King Edwarde the Sixte, or to thandes
of our said Sovereigne Ladie the Quene, or to thandes of our Sovereigne Lord and Ladie the King and Quene, or to thandes of her
Mtie, her heires, and successors, in Possession, ReverCon, Remainder, or other ways, and weh now bee or remain in thandes of our
said Sovereigne Lord and Lady the King and Quenes Maties, of any estate of inheritance, shall from the time the same came reverted
agayn to thandes of our said late Sovereygne Lorde Kinge Edward the Sixte, or to thandes of our said Sovereigne Lady the Quene,
or thandes of our said Sovereyne Lord and Ladye the King and Quene, by aucthoritee and force of this Acte bee united and
annexed for ever unto the Sayd Duchye of Lancastree, and shalbe adjudged, demed, and taken for ever for, and as peels and membres
of the said Duchie of Lancastre,” etc.
said liege Lord King Edward the Fourth, his true, righteous, and
natural liege Lord, offended and hurt unjustly and unlawfully the
Royal Majesty of our said sovereign Lord, stand by the advice and
assent convicted and attainted of High Treason. And that it be
ordained and established by the same advice, assent, and authority,
that he the same Henry forfeit unto the same our Liege Lord
Edward the Fourth, and to his heirs, and to the said Crown of
England, all Castles, Manors, Lordships, Towns, Townships, Honors,
Lands, Tenements, Rents, Services, Fee-Farms, Knights’-Fees, Ad-
vowsons, Hereditaments, and Possessions, with their appurtenances,
which he or any other to his use had the third day of March last
past, being of the Dutchy of Lancaster, or that were any parcel or
member of the same Dutchy, or thereunto annexed or united in the
first year of the reign of Henry, late called King Henry the Fifth, or
at any time since. And that it be ordained and established by the
same advice, assent, and authority, that the same Manors, Castles,
Lordships, Honors, Towns, Townships, Lands, Tenements, Rents,
Services, Fee-Farms, Knights’-Fees, Advowsons, Hereditaments,
and Possessions, with their appurtenances in England, Wales, and
Calais, and the Marches thereof, make, and from the said day of
March be to the said Dutchy of Lancaster corporate, and be called
the Dutchy of Lancaster. And that our said sovereign Lord King
Edward the Fourth have, seize, take, hold, enjoy, and inherit all the
said Manors and Castles, and other the Premisses with their
appurtenances, by the same name of Dutchy, from all other his
inheritances separate, from the said fourth day of March, to him
and to his heirs Kings of England perpetually, and that the County
of Lancaster be a county Palatine : And that our Liege and Sovereign
Lord King Edward the Fourth and his heirs have, as parcel of the
said Dutchy, the same. County of Lancaster and County Palatine,
and a Seal, Chancellor, Judges, and Officers for the same ; and all
manner of Liberties, Customs, Laws Royal, and Franchises in the
same County Palatine lawfully and rightfully used, and over that
another Seal, called the Seal of the Dutchy of Lancaster, and a
Chancellor for the keeping thereof, Officers and Counsellors for the
guiding and governance of the same Dutchy, and of the particular
officers, ministers, tenants and inhabitants thereof, in as great,
ample, and large form as Henry, calling himself Henry the Fifth, at
any time therein had, use, and enjoy lawfully. And by the same
authority the said officers and ministers, and also the said tenants
and inhabitants of and in the same Dutchy have, use, exercise, and
enjoy such and all Liberties, Privileges, and Customs, as the Officers,
ministers, tenants, and inhabitants of the same Dutchy had, used,
exercised, or enjoyed lawfully in the time of the same Henry,
calling himself King Henry the Fifth ; and that also in the same
Dutchy be used, had, and occupied all such Freedoms, Liberties,
Franchises, Privileges, Customs, and Jurisdictions, as were used
therein lawfully before the said fourth day of March. And the
officers, ministers, tenants, and inhabitants of or in the said Dutchy
be entreated and demeaned according to the same Freedoms,
Liberties, Franchises, Customs, Privileges, and Jurisdictions, and
not distrained, arcted, nor compelled to the contrary in anywise.”
48 The historg of Lancashire. CHAP. W.
In the following reign a systematic return was made of the fees, privileges, writs, and advowsons
attached to the Duchy of Lancaster and its officers, a copy of which has been preserved, and is as
follows:— - -
HERE BEGINNETH THE BOOKE -
WHICH IS KNOWN BY THE NAME OF AND TREATING OF THE FEES, PRIVILEGES, WRITTs, ADVOWSONS, AND OTHER OFFICERS THAT
BELONG TO THE DUCHY AND COUNTY PALATINE OF LANCASTER [ABOUT 1588].
Fees of the Dutchy. -
The chancellor's fee of the Dutchy . © tº . #238 16 4 much more as makes both their salaries amount
The attorney of the Dutchy . g * . . 66 5 4 to £76:17:3]
The auditor for the north partes . º º . 68 13 4. The sum of all the payments which are paid to all the
The auditor for the south partes º e . 68 13 4 officers, or allowed as salarys in the dutchy, in the
[Besides to both of them murrey cloth, green cloth whole amount to - º 0. e º . £641 3 4
for their tables and for their lying in London, as
An ESTIMATE of the REVENUES of the DUCHY of LANGASTER, collected by the particular Receivers of the Honors belonging to the
- said Duchy, and yearly paid by the Receiver-General.
Revenues of the Dutchy per annum.
The receiver of Cliderhow and Halton, payeth to the general The receiver of Leicester . º & e e * . £400
Receiver of the dutchy o g o g & , f1700 The receiver of Furness . •' e º º º ... 1000
The receiver of Pomfrett and Knasbrough, com. 69 annis . 1800 The receiver of Bullingbroke . e * t º . 900
The receiver of Tickhull . * º º e e . 500 Augmentation of Lancaster . . . º e . 400
The receiver of Pickeringleigh . * º s º . 350 The receiver of the colledge and chantry rents in the county
The receiver of Duntanborough * º º & - 80 of Stafford and Derby . * º e º © e 40
The receiver of Tutbury, p. ann. . º & º . 1500 -
The receiver of Longberington . * º º p º 80 £8600
South Division.
The receiver of Higham Ferars. º e º & , #800 The receiver of Essex and Hartford . e & º . 61000
The receiver of Norfolk and Suffolk . © † wº . 200 The receiver of the marches of Wales and Monmouth ... 100
The receiver of Sussex . o e • e º . 300 The receiver of Kilwaldid e & º g º ... 100
The receiver of the south parts e º © e ... 1000 - #4800
So that the whole receipts of the general receiver of the Dutchy one year with another amounteth to . º Q 14:14,000 0 0
The receiver is to pay to the treasurer of his Majesties most honourable chamber º Q - . £4000 0 0 -
And to the cofferer of his Majesties household . te º g & & • • º & º 7000 0 0
For fees to the court officers . * º © º e e º t º g º e * 641. 3 4
For expenses of the mass Songs, and others, per ann. o • 100 0 0
- Total disbursements . º . 11,741 3 4
So that remains communibus annis, in the custody of the general receiver, to be disposed of according to his majesty's
use, upon Mr. Chancellor, Sir Francis Walsingham.” 2258 16 8
£14,000 0 0
A DECLARATION of all the FORESTS, CHASES, and PARKES, belonging to the DUTCHY of LANCASTER, out of which the Chancellor,
Attorney-General, Receiver-General, and two Auditors, are to have deer summer and winter.
In Lancashire. In Staffordshire. In Derbyshire. Castle Donnington parke.
The forest of Bolland. Yoxalward parke. High Peak forest. Barnes parke.
The forest of Wiersdale. Agardesley parke. Shattell parke. New parke of Leicester.
The forest of Bleasdale. Rolleston parke. Melbure parke. Tonley parke.
Tuegrame parke. Marchington ward. Mansfield parke. Pekelton parke.
Mierscough parke Tutbury parke. Morley parke.
Toxteth parke. Hockeley parke. Posterne parke. In Wiltshire.
Quernmore parke. Rowley parke. - Ravensdale parke.
º High Lenis parke. - •o 1, 2 Loxley parke.
In Cheshire. In Leicestershire. Alborne chace.
Halton parke. * The forest of Leicester. Everley parke.
PARKS AND CHASES.
In Hamshire, Kingsomburne parke.—The chace of Holt, and the parke, Dorsetshire. Kirby parke, in Lincolnshire.—Higham Ferrers,
in Northamptonshire. - -
In Yorkshire. . parke. Weecks parke. In Hertfordshire.
Poulfret parke. Onisbrough parke. Two other parkes there are in Suf. inor º
- tºº. - Altafts parke. jolk. Eyste parke there also. Fº
Kepax parke. Acworth parke, and the New Kingslaugby p ark, do ©
Blausby parke. parke of Wakefield. - In Essea. S'--~~~~5 5 *ve
Pickeringly forest. The great parke of Plashey.
Billon parke. - In Sussea. The little parke there. Oldney park, Buckinghamshire.
The old parke of Wakefield. Hunsde parke. Coppedhull parke. Hungerford park, Berkshire.
Hay parke. * The forest of Ashdowne. Highester parke there.
* It may be presumed that the statement of Revenue this year This fixes the period when this account was taken, or the rates
is not equal to the average year, as the figures do not correspond affixed, concurring with the Entry of the Fees of the “Justices of
with this amount. w the Queen's Bench.”
* Sir Francis Walsingham was chancellor in 1588.-See list.
§:
CHAP. W.;
# * '' . .
Çift #istory of 3Lancašijite.
“FEES DUE PER ANNUM TO THESE OFFICERS.
£ S. d.
Bailiffe of the manor of Salford
Bailiffe of Derby wapontake
Bailiffe of manr of West Derby
Mr of the forest of Wiersdale
Mr of Amounderness forest
The escheator of county palatine
The sheriff of Lanc. hath for allowance
The constable of Liverpool castle . e º
The maister of Symondwood forest, and keeper of Tox-
teth parke hath for his fees, per annum .
Steward of the wapontake of Derby and Salford
The receiver of the co. palat. *
Porter of Lancaster castle
Steward of Amounderness
Steward of Lonsdale º
Reeper of Quernmore parke $
Mr of the forest wood of Myerscough
Maister of Wiresdale et Quernmore & g
The chancellor's fee of the county palatine, per annul
The justice of the queen's bench for his office in county
palatine e e
And for dyett e {e º º g
To another justice for his office in county palatine,
and dyett too * t &
Atty of County palatine
Clerke of ye crown for county
Clerk of the common pleas . *
Clerk of crown and pleas . & g g
Barons of the exchequer there
Cryer of the sessions at Lancaster
Master of Bolland forest & &
Steward of ponds for his fee sº &
Receiver of Clitheroe tº & © &
Steward of Blackburn, Tottington, and Clederhow, for
his fee . * & º g ſº
Constable of Clitherow castle a > tº *
The keeper and porter of the gaole in the castle of
Clitherow ſe g g & g
Messenger of the dutchy . gº
The keeper of the parkes' fees
Fee of the bailive of Ormskirk
Bailif of Burscough fee
6 13
0
0
10
0
0
0
13
1;
4
()
l
6
1
1.
I
1
i;
143
i;.
1
3
|
..:
The under steward of Ormskirk appointed by the Earl
of Derby w º tº *
Fee of the clerk of the court there
The fee of the auditor º e
The fee of the receiver per annum . g
The reward of the said receiver
The fée for Furness • ,
The baylives of Dalton's fee
The ditto of Hawkshead’s fee
The ditto of Beamond and Bolton wº †
Fee of all the manors pertaining to Furness mo-
mastery . * e
Fee of the receiver there
Clerk of the court there tº
Baylive of Furness liberty . &
Keeper of woods in plane of Furness
Reward of the auditor º tº *
The stipend of a clerk to serve in the chapel at
Farnworth g * e & ºp
The stipend of a clerk to serve in the chapel at Lither-
poole º ſº * * s g
The fee of a clerk and schoole mt of Walton, per
&IIIlúIII . © º g º
The clerk's stipend at Blackrodes &
The clerk of Clitherow stipend º g
The stipend of the clerk of Padiham chappel
The chaplin's fee in the chappel of Harewood, per
8.]]Illllll . g g
The clerk in the chappel Of whalley g &
The stipend of a clerke to serve in the chappel of Ruf-
ford, per annum . tº
The stipend of a clerke and school maister at Man-
chester, per annum o
Clerke of Beconshawe chapel g e
The stipend of a clerk and school-master at Leyland
The stipend of a clerk and school-master at Preston
Clerke and steward of Wigan e tº
The clerke of Croston's stipend gº e g
The payment made unto seven weomen praying within
the late colledge, called Knowles's Alms house, per
a]]]}UIIIl
Payd to two persons and the surveyor thereof
;
I
:
1
:
i
35 15
5 10
“A NOTE of all the BENEFICES and SPIRITUAL LIVINGS belonging to the DUTCHY OF LANCASTER.
(r) for rectory—(v) for vikarage.
Comit. Berks.
Henton Rectory
Im. Comitat. Ebor.
Methley (r) clare
Darrington (v) per ann.
Ackeworth (r) per ann.
Croston (r) per ann.
Slaitborne (r) per ann.
Rirkbram (with r)
Ouston (v) per ann.
Castleford (r) per ann.
Bradford (v) *
Berwickes of Elemitt
In Com. ESSea.
Stamford rivers (r) .
Munden (v) g
Dedham (v) per ann.
Essex (v) per ann.
Longton (v) per ann.
Laugham (v or r)
Gloucester.
Tiberton Rectoria . . .
Hartford.
Saint Andrews with St. Nicholas
In Com. Lincoln.
Hartringfordbury (r)
Ounley (r) clere
23 7 5
25 8 (1
0 0 0
22 || 0
10 0 13
0 0 0
12 18 4
7 2 13
20 13 0
20 0 0
33 12 4
26 13 4
12 12 0
10 0 0
8 0 (0
18 3 8
17 0 0
7 16 0
12 I 2
16 0 0
9 3 4
Whittingham (r)
Hantley (r) per ann.
Stoopings parva (r) .
Norcot (r) g
South Somersetes (r)
Bennington (v)
Salt Thetby (r)
Southreston (r)
Morningerby (r) . iº $º *
Thoresby (r) e • * * w
In Comºé. Lancastrée.
Pennington Don clear (r) . .
Dalton (v) and clear
In Com. Leicester.
Hathurend (v) g
St. Peter, Leicester (v)
Desford (r) º
Whitwicke vic. tº #
Wiccaria de pembe valet, per ann.
Mandeoallecke sene [sive] Monobon (v)
Swafield (r) § & º
Mamelly vic. Valet. per ann.
Shibden (v)
Trunche (r)
Southropes (r)
Sydestrond (r)
Northrope (r)
Mondesley (r)
:I
I
1I
º
6
I
1.
1
I
4
9
d.
:
10
i5
#
l
:2:
.
50 (The #istory of £ancashire. CHAP. W.
£ S. d. £ s. d.
- In Comit. Worfolk. Rolston (r) - - º . T3 9 6
Themingham rector . - w s 6 0 0 Tatenhill (r) * - * e . 26 0 0
Withrope (r) 5 5 2 Wolstanton (r) - - º * . 32 3 9
Malilaske (r) 5 0 0 - º
Beeston (r) 16 0 0 - In Com. Suffolk.
Plumbstead (r) 5 3 2 Clare (v) - - - 4 18 8
- - Eyken (v) . - 6 13 4
In Comit. Northamp. Holmesett (v) cleare e * º * () () ()
Inchester (v) e “ º 8 0 0 Stratford . - - - º . 13 0 0
Passenham (r) .20 0 0 Somersham (r) w * tº & 8 0 0
Preston (v) 15 4 0 Hunden (v) . 7 13 4
Widd (v) 3 6 10 *
Bethome (v) clear 13 17 4 - * , In Co. Wölffs.
Millome (v) e - 8 5 & Poole (r) º - - e . 17 12 5
Urswick (v) sunt Richmondsh. * 7 17 4 Ashley (r) . - • . . e . 9 16 4
- In Com. Stafford. In Co. Westmorland.
Tudbury (v) - e e & º 7 0 0 Orton (v) . e º & g . 16 17 4
“The valuation of some parsonages and vicarages within the dutchy appeareth not in the records remaining in the dutchy office, but
may be found in the office of the first-fruits, where the same are best known,”—Birch's MSS.
y -
From the time of Queen Elizabeth to the reign of Charles II. no material change took place in the
duchy court of Lancaster, with the exception of the abolition of the duchy court of star-chamber already
noticed; but in the 12th Charles II. (1660), the last remaining vestige of the feudal system, after having
existed in this country for at least six hundred years, was swept' away, and with it the privileges of wards
and liveries attached to the duchy of Lancaster, although those privileges had been thought worthy of special
protection a century before. The progress of knowledge had burst the bonds of vassalage, and although the
system introduced, or completed, by the Norman conquerors, had taken deep root, and identified itself with
the whole frame of society, the tenures in capite, and knights' service, were now declared “more burthensome,
grievous, and prejudicial to the kingdom, than beneficial to the king,” and they were, therefore, for ever
abolished. During the interval between the year 1642, when the public treasury passed into the hands of
the parliament, and the year 1660, when Charles II. obtained the royal inheritance, the revenues of the duchy
of Lancaster were applied to the exigencies of the state, first under the administration of Lord Newburgh,
and subsequently under the chancellorships of William Lenthall, Speaker of the House of Commons, John
(President) Bradshawe, Thomas Fell, and Sir Gilbert Gerard, Bart. ; the latter of whom was displaced at the
Restoration by Francis Lord Seymour, who, as a mark of the royal favour, obtained this lucrative appointment,
for his attachment to the House of Stuart. To facilitate the proceedings in the duchy court, an act was
passed in the 16th and 17th Charles II. (1665), empowering the chancellor of the duchy to grant commissions
for taking affidavits within the county palatine of Lancaster, and other places in the several counties of the
kingdom within the survey of the duchy court, whereby the same validity was given to those affidavits, as if
they had been sworn, as hitherto in the duchy chamber at Westminster, and to render these proceedings, in
the incipient state, as little burthensome as possible, it was directed that the very moderate fee of twelve
pence, and no more, should be received by the person empowered to take the affidavits.
From the first creation of the duchy of Lancaster, in 1351, to 1831, there have been eighty-three chan-
cellors of the duchy. The following is a complete list of those officers, obligingly furnished by the duchy
office — - -
CHANCELLORS of the DUCHY and COUNTY PALATINE of LANCASTER, from the first Creation of the Duke-
dom in 1351, to the present time, June 1831.
34 Edward III. . . Sir Henry de Haydok tº * e Chancellor of Henry, first duke (1360).
46 Edward III. . . Ralph de Ergham, clerk º - º Bishop of Sarum (1372).
51 Edward III. . . Thomas de Thelwall, clerk . º º Created Chancellor of Co. Pal., 16th April (1377).
1 Richard II. . . . Sir John de Yerborough, clerk -
6 Richard II. . . . Sir Thomas Stanley . -> - º November 10th, pro temp. (1382).
6 Richard II. . . . Sir Thomas Scarle . º o 0. November 29th (1382).
7 Richard II. . . . Sir William Okey * - - º October (1383).
1 Henry IV. . . . John de Wakering . • º º (1399–1400).
1 Henry IV. . . . William Burgoyne, Esq. º º e (1399–1400).
6 Henry IV. . . . Sir Thomas Stanley . º - e May 15th (1405).
11 Henry IV. . . . John Springthorpe, clerk º - º March 30th (1410).
1 Henry W. . . . John Woodhouse & º º º 4th April (1413).
1 Henry VI. . . . John Woodhouse, contd. º - e 20th January (1423).
2 Henry VI. . . . William Troutbecke, Esq. Q -> º 10th June (1424).
9 Henry VI. . . . Walter Sherington, clerk º - tº 16th February (1431).
17 Henry VI. . . . . e e e º - º 7th May (1439), Chancellor for life.
20 Henry VI. . . . William Tresham o º º º 3d July (1442), Chancellor in reversion.
26 Henry VI. . . . William Tresham 6. º - e 1st November (1447).
27 Henry VI. . . . John Say, Esq. * d - e 10th June (1449).
* Rot. Parl. 12 Car. II. p. 3. nu, 4.
CHAP. W.
5
|
Çür #igturn of 3Lancashire.
1 Edward IV.
11 Edward I.W.
17 Edward IV.
18 Edward IV.
1 Richard III.
1 Henry VII.
19 Henry VII.
21 Henry VII.
1 Henry VIII.
14 Henry VIII.
17 Henry VIII.
21 Henry VIII.
_35 Henry VIII.
1 Edward VI.
6 Edward VI.
1 Queen Mary . .
4 & 5 Philip & Mary
1 Elizabeth . . .
10 Elizabeth
19 Elizabeth
32 Elizabeth
37 Elizabeth
43 Elizabeth
13 James I.
14 James I.
15 James I.
5 Charles I.
Feb. 10, 1644 .
1649 .
1655 .
1659 . . . .
12 Charles II. .
16 Charles II. .
23 Charles II. .
34 Charles II. .
1 Wm. and Mary
9 William III.
1 Queen Anne
5 Queen Anne
9 Queen Anne
1 George I.
2 George I.
3 George I.
1 George II.
8 George II.
16 George II.
34 George II.
3 George III. .
11 George III. .
22 George III. .
23 George III. .
24 George III. .
27 George III. .
44 George III. .
44 George III. .
45 George III. .
45 George III. .
46 George III. .
47 George III. .
52 George III. .
52 George III. .
4 George IV. .
9 George IV. .
9 George IV. .
I William TV..
John Say, Esq., contd.
Sir Richard Fowler, Kt.
Sir John Say, Kt.
Thomas Thwaites
Thomas Metcalfe
Sir Reginald Bray, Knt. . * & & g
Sir John Mordant, Knt., . g * sº Jº
Sir Richard Empson, Knt. tº e
Sir Henry Marny, Knt. .
Sir Richard Wingfield, Knt.
Sir Thomas Moore, Knt. . &
Sir William Fitzwilliams, Knt.
Sir John Gage, Knt. &
Sir William Pagett, Knt. .
Sir John Gate, Knt.
Sir Robert Rochester, Knt.
Sir Edward Walgrave, Knt.
Sir Ambrose Cave, Knt.
Sir Ralph Sadler, Knt. . &
Sir Francis Walsingham, Knt. .
Sir Thomas Henage, Knt.
Sir Robert Cecil, Knt. *
Sir John Fortescue, Knt. . *
Sir Thomas Parry, Knt., and John Daccomb, Esq.
Sir John Daccombe, Knt. .
Sir Humphrey May, Knt. .
Egward Lord Newburgh . º * e &
William Lord Grey of Wake and William Lent-
hall, Esq.
John Bradshawe
Thomas Fell . g
Sir Gilbert Gerard, Bart.
Francis Lord Seymour
Sir Thomas Ingram, Kt.
Sir Robert Carr, Bart. & *
Sir Thomas Chicheley, Kt. * g
Robert Lord Willoughby, of Ersby.
Thomas Earl of Stamford . e
Sir John Leveson Gower, Bart.
James Earl of Derby e * *
William Lord Berkeley, of Stratton .
Henage Earl of Aylesford g
Richard Earl of Scarborough
Nicholas Lechemere, Esq.
John Duke of Rutland
George Earl of Cholmondeley
Richard Lord Edgecumbe
Thomas Earl of Kinnoull
James Lord Strange . e w gº & *
Thomas Lord Hyde, afterwards Earl of Clarendon
John Lord Ashburton gº gº tº &
Edward Earl of Derby
Thomas Earl of Clarendon
Charles Lord Hawkesbury
Thomas Lord Pelham
Lord Mulgrave ſº e
Earl of Buckinghamshire
Dudley Lord Harrowby g
Edward Earl of Derby . e
The Right Hon. Spencer Perceva
The Earl of Buckinghamshire ..
The Right Hon. Charles Bathurst
. . Nicholas Lord Bexley
The Earl of Aberdeen, K. T.
The Right Hon. Charles Arbuthnot .
Lord Holland.
16th June (1461).
10th June (1471), also Chan. of Excheq.
3d November (1477).
2d April (1478), also Chan. of Excheq.
7th July (1483).
13th September (1485).
24th June (1504).
3d October (1505).
14th May (1509).
14th April (1523).
31st December (1525), made Chancellor of England.
3d November (1529), (after Earl of Southampton).
10th May (1543).
1st July (1547).
7th July (1552).
(1553–54).
22d June (1558).
(1558–59).
16th May (1568).
15th June (1577).
(1590).
7th October (1595).
16th September (1601).
27th May (1615).
5th June (1616).
23d March (1618).
16th April (1629).
1st August (1649).
1655).
14th May (1659).
9th July (1660).
21st July (1664).
22d February (1671).
21st November (1682).
21st March (1689).
4th May (1697).
12th May (1702).
10th June (1706).
21st September (1710).
6th November (1714).
12th March (1715).
19th June (1717).
17th July (1727).
May (1735).
22d December (1742).
27th February (; 1760).
13th December (1762).
14th June (1771).
17th April (1782).
29th August (1783).
31st December (1783).
6th September (1787).
11th November (1803).
6th June (1804).
14th January (1805).
10th July (1805).
12th February (1806).
30th March (1807).
25th May (1812).
23d June (1812).
13th February (1823).
26th January (; 1829).
2d June (; 1828).
25th November (1830).
We have thus sketched, with a rapid hand, principally from official documents, a connected and authentic
history of the duchy of Lancaster, one of “the most famous, princeliest, and stateliest of inheritances.”
The
connection of the duchy with the ducal and royal House of Lancaster is too close to admit of separation.
They serve to illustrate and to ennoble each other, and to have exhibited them apart would have derogated
from the dignity of both.
In each successive reign, from the period when Henry of Bolingbroke ascended
the throne of this kingdom, to the present time, with the exception of the interregnum of the commonwealth,
the sovereigns of England have enjoyed the title of duke, and the revenues of the duchy of Lancaster, both
of which are now in possession of our gracious sovereign, and will descend as an inalienable inheritance to the
successors of the present monarch.
The proceedings of the duchy court, during a period of four hundred and thirty years, are full of interest
52 Qſìje ??igturn of 3Lancashire. CHAP. W.
in all the counties of the kingdom to which the duchy extends, but in the county palatine of Lancaster they
have a peculiar claim to that distinction; and it may tend essentially to the convenience of those who at
present, or in future times, may have occasion to consult the records of that duchy, to be presented with the
following authentic information, both as to their nature, and as to their places of deposit.
THE DUCHY RECORDS.
“Return from the Deputy-Clerk of the Council, and Keeper of the Records in the Duchy of Lancaster, to the Committee on the
Public Records of this Kingdom, made in virtue of an order from the select Committee, with an answer to the enquiry,
Whether all the Records of the Duchy are open to public inspection ?
“In obedience to your Order of the 21st February last, I herewith return answers to the several Queries put to me, with
respect to the Records of this Office, under the Custody of the Clerk of the Council, and the two Auditors, to whom I, in this respect,
act as deputy ; but beg leave at the same Time to state, that such only are considered as public, and open for public Inspection,
as in any wise relate to, or concern Judicial Proceedings, the remainder being collected for the purpose of better managing and
improving the Inheritance of his Majesty's Possessions in right of his Duchy of Lancaster; and the Officers of the Duchy think
themselves at liberty to withhold them from public inspection, except for the purposes before mentioned, or by command of his
Majesty, as Duke of Lancaster, signified by his chancellor of the Duchy.
“The Answer to the First Question is contained in the following list of Records in the Office of the Duchy of Lancaster —
Account of the purchase Money arising from the Sale of Rents under the several acts of Parliament, 19 Geo. III. 1779, to the
present time.—[i.e. 1800].
Awards for inclosures, in which the Duchy Property has been concerned,—27 Geo. II, 1754, to the present Time.
Bills and Answers and Depositions in the Duchy Court of Lancaster, and of such as have been transmitted from the County Palatine
to be heard in the Duchy Court, 1 Hen. VII. 1487, to the present Time.
Charters and Grants of various Kings under the Great Seal, as well as of private Persons (remaining in Boxes), to the King's Sons,
and to Ecclesiastical Persons, of Lands within the Surveys of the Duchy, -1 King Stephen, 1135, to 10 Queen Elizabeth, 1558.
Charters and Grants in Fee Farm, some of which are enrolled in the Office, and others remain on Parchment, with the Royal Sign
Manual. The original Charters of the Duchy and County Palatine to the King's Son, and Grants of Lands to Individuals of
the possessions of the Duchy, 51 Ed. III. 1377, to I Queen Anne, 1702.
Court Rolls of such Manors as formerly belonged to the Duchy, and have since been granted away, and of Such as are at present
demised by Leases under the Duchy Seal,—1283 to the present Time. -
Decrees of the Duchy Court inrolled in Books, and some drafts with the Attorney General's Signature, 1 Hen. VII. 1487, to the
present Time.
Grants of Rents under the several Acts, to enable the Chancellor and Council to dispose of the Fee Farm and other Rents, and to
enfranchise Copyhold Estates, 20 Geo. III. 1780, to the present Time.
Inquisitions Post Mortem, consisting of 2400 of various Lands and Tenements, within all the Counties in England,-1 Hen. W.
1413, to 18 Car. I. 1642.
Leases, Drafts, and Inrolments, of such as have passed the Duchy Seal, of Land and Tenements, Parcel of the Possessions of the
Duchy, 1 Hen. VIII. 1510, to the present Time.
Ministers and Receivers Accounts of the Rents and Revenues of the Duchy, -1135, to the present Time.
Patents of Offices granted under the Duchy Seal,—1 Hen. VIII. 1510, to the present Time.
Presentations to Livings under the Duchy Seal,—1 Hen. VIII. 1510, to the present Time.
Rentals and Particulars of Lands belonging to the Duchy, collected together in Bags and Presses, and consisting of various other
documents, of such Descriptions, that they cannot be comprised under one Head, registered into Counties, and in the Catalogue
are the Names of places alphabetically arranged,—51 Ed. III. 1377, to the present Time. -
Registers of Leases, Warrants, Grants, and other Documents, under Royal Signs Manual, inrolled in Books, of John, Duke of
Lancaster, in the Time of Edw. the Third, and of various Kings, relating to the Possessions of the Duchy, 51 Edw. III. 1377,
to 8 Hen. VI. 1430.
Revenue Proceedings in Duchy Court inrolled in Books,—6 Car. I. 1630, to the present Time.
Special Commissions of Sewers, and to survey estates belonging to the Duchy, 23 Eliz. (1581), to the present Time.
Privy Seals and Bills, being the particulars prepared previous to the granting any Leases or Offices under the Duchy Seal,—1 James
I. (1603), to the present Time.
“The Building wherein the Records are kept is situate on the East Side of Somerset Place," is in good Condition and Security,
with respect to the Rooms where the Records are deposited ; but many of them have been obliged to be lately removed from the
lower part on account of the Dry Rot, which has affected the basement Story. As the Records yearly increase, more Room will be
wanted at some future Period, for the Accommodation of them. The Office was appropriated to the use of the Duchy of Lancaster
under the Act for erecting the Buildings at Somerset House, and is therefore public Property. But this office was given to the
Duchy in consideration of Accommodations and Concessions made by his Majesty in right of his Duchy, from such parts of the
manor of Savoy as belonged to the Duchy. The Records, except those of very ancient Date (which were, in some degree, destroyed
by the vermin in the late office), are in good preservation ; and such as are not contained in Books are arranged in Presses, according
to their Dates, tied up with paper and string, and numerically indorsed; and in the course of every summer a person is employed to
remove the Dust from them, and put new paper and string to such as want it. The Books are deposited in Closets, indorsed
according to their dates and Subjects. There are correct general Indexes, Repertories, and Calendars, of all the Records in the Office,
with reference to the particular Subjects which they contain ; and as fresh Records are transmitted to the Office, they are continued
to be entered in existing Calendars; and these additions are minutely attended to, without any Expense on that account being borne
by the King as Duke of Lancaster. Several Years ago, according to what I have been informed, a Fire happened at the Duchy's
Office, Gray's Inn, by which accident several Records were destroyed, and some are supposed to have been stolen. Some of these
have been recovered from persons who have voluntarily surrendered them ; and some few Indexes and Catalogues, which had been
made for the use of the officers who had the care of the Records; but I know of none now existing in any place, from whence they
are likely to be regained ; and such ample Repertories have since been made, and the Records arranged in such order, that they
would hardly be of use if recovered. I am employed in the arrangements of the Records myself, and a clerk assists me in placing
and replacing them, for which no Salary or allowance whatever is paid, but a fee of 8s. 6d. is charged for the production of each
Record, which is the sole allowance, as well for the trouble and producing them, as for arranging them and keeping them in proper
preservation, and for making the Indexes, Repertories, and Calendars, and the further sum of 1s. is charged per folio for Copies, or
16d. if there is any considerable difficulty arising from the Antiquity or Language of the Record. Attendance with the Records
themselves is so seldom demanded, that no Fee has been regularly settled for that purpose ; but if in London, a charge is made of
one guinea, besides the coach-hire; and if in the country, two guineas a day, with the travelling charges, and all other expenses,
would be expected. No account has been kept of the profits derived by searches for public records, independent of those where fees
*
1 The Records are now removed to Lancaster Place.
CHAP. W. The #istory of Lancashire. - 53
have been received for other searches, from whence any average can be taken. The answer to the Sixth Question is, I presume,
contained in the answer to the foregoing questions. . I am not apprised of any regulation that can be made for rendering the use of
the said Records more convenient for proper Inspection. - “R. J. HARPER,
“May 8, 1800. Deputy-Clerk of the Council.”
“Several Fee Farm Rolls of this Duchy have been lately transferred to this Office from the Augmentation Office.”
“Return to a further Question to the Clerk of the Council and Keeper of the Records of the Duchy of Lancaster.
“Query.—Are there in your custody, as such Officer, any Calendars, or Indexes to the Inquisitions Post Mortem mentioned in
your Return to this Committee, and upon what plan are they formed—and are they in a state sufficiently correct for publication, if
it should be thought to conduce to the benefit of the Public to have the same printed tº
“Answer.—There are, as stated in my former Return, several Inquisitions Post Mortem, Traverses, and other Inquisitions of
divers kinds, remaining in this Office under my care, commencing in the beginning of the Reign of Henry W. and finishing 18
Charles I., amounting to nearly 2,400 in number, Some of which consist of many large Skins of Parchment put on Files, in several
|bundles, secured from future injuries by strong covers, and to which there is a regular Alphabetical Index and Calendar, in one
Volume, divided into the several Reigns of the Kings before mentioned, and containing the names of Persons, and all places
mentioned in each Inquisition, omitting none that are legible. The first directing immediately to the several lands each person
died possessed of; the other referring to each Inquisition, in which any particular Lands are to be found. I know of no objection
to publishing the above Index, if it should be thought conducive to the public benefit; and understand it will fill about 90 Pages
when printed. “R. J. HARPER,
“June 27, 1810. Deputy-Clerk of the Council.”
The following is an Abstract from the public records relating to the Depositories of the Duchy of
Tancaster:— -
DEPOSITORIES OF THE DUCHY RECORDS.
Records and other Instruments. - Date. Where kept.
Charters and Grants —
Under the great Seal of Duchy Lands º e * o Stephen to Elizabeth . e g
Of various Kings . e • º o g & e 1135 to 1558 . º • º Duchy Office.
Grants in Fee Farm, some enrolled, others not . o w 51 Edw. III. (1266) to Anne .
Confirmation of privileges . ë
o & º 2 Henry W. (1414) e e Bodleian Library.
Copies of Charter relating to the Duchy . º o
Henry IV. to Edw. IV.
Exemplification of the grant of creation of the County - - * Ashmolean Museum.
Palatine, and creation of Duke º e e • | 1 Edw. IV. (1461) e s e
Patents of offices under the Duchy seal. . • * º } I º VIII. (1509) to the present | Bodleian Library.
Grants of Rent under Statutes . © º * tº . 1780 to the present time . . Duchy Office.
Inquisitions Post Mortem. . . - º o º º . . . 1 Henry W. (1413) to Car. I. . . Bodleian Library.
Transcripts of, for Duchy Lands in Western Counties, ! 16 Car. I. (1640
Dorset, Somerset, Wilts, Hants & tº • ar. I. (1640) o *
Sewers—Special Commissions • - e e º º 23 Eliz. (1581) to the present time University Lib. Camb.
Surveys —Of Woods and Underwoods . e Q . . . 1575 . . s tº e . .
Feoda Militum Regis Caroli Ducis Lancastriae . o s. Car. I. . - w e º &
Privy Seals and Bills º o e © º 1 Jac. I. (1603) to the present time
Awards for Inclosures e º º º º e s 1754 to the present time º
Presentations to livings under the Duchy Seal . o º 1510 to the present time
Court Rolls—
Of manors formerly of the Duchy and of those now in demise | 1283 to the present time
Leases—
Registers of, together with warrants and other documents, | 51 Edw. III. to 8 Hen. VI. (1377 to | Duchy Office.
under the Sign-manual . e º e e 1430) • º te e g
Drafts and inrolments of . º º º & p . 1 Hen. VIII. (1509) to the present
time . o e e º e
Rentals and Particulars—
Of Duchy Lands, alphabetically arranged . e & e | 51 º III. (1377) to the present
Fee-farm Rent-rolls during the Commonwealth . e e Cari, and II. . º º Augmentation Office.
Rnight's Fees therein belong to Charles I. . º º º 1648
General Rental Tempore Interregni e t e w º - º e e º University Lib. Camb.
The like for Dorset, Somerset, Wilts, and Hants o º 1636 to 1640 . º - e -
. Of Ministers and Receivers e º º º 1135 to the present time e tº
Of money arising by Sales under statutes . º º º 1780 to the present time | Duchy Office,
Of receiver in the County of Lancaster, and annexed lands of ) º - - - -
Clithero, Furmeis, and Houlton º | Date wanting o tº º e University Lib. Camb.
Forests, Pleas of . - © - • º e e º 8 Edw. III. (1334) - e * King's Rememb. Office.
Pleading and Decrees, by Bill and answer . . . . } I º VII. (1485) to the present
Books of decrees and orders . • e e e e 1487 to the present time Duchy Office.
Revenue Proceedings . º e e e g e 1630 to the present time *
A few Records concerning the Duchy . e • e º - • * * * * * Auditor's Office Land
Revenue.
The Seal of the Duchy of Lancaster is as ancient as the duchy itself; as is also the Seal of the County
Palatine. The seal of the duchy remains with the chancellor of the duchy at Westminster; that of the
county palatine is kept at Preston, in the office of the keeper of the seal. All grants and leases of land,
tenements, and offices, in the county palatine of Lancaster, in order to render them valid, must pass under
54 (Iſiſt ºigturn of £ancashire. CHAP. W.
the seal of the county palatine, and no other; and all grants and leases of lands, tenements, and offices, out of
the county palatine, and within the survey of the duchy, must pass under the seal of the duchy, and no other
seal." The custom, however, is to seal all deeds of lands, etc. within the county palatine, with both the duchy
and the county palatine seals, and all without the county, but within the survey of the duchy of Lancaster,
with the duchy seal only. These seals are essentially the same as those that have been used since the days
of John of Gaunt, but new seals are engraved in each successive dukedom. Those at present in use are
extremely splendid, and may rank amongst the first efforts of art in this department.
THE DUCHY SEAL
Represents the King seated on his Throne in Royal Robes, wearing the Collar of the Most Noble Order of
the Garter, and the Imperial Crown. In his right hand he holds the Royal Sceptre, and his left is placed on
the Orb and Cross on his left knee. On the dexter side of the Throne, on a compartment adorned with the
Union Badge of the Rose, Thistle, and Shamrock, is placed a Lion sejant crowned with the Imperial Crown,
and supporting between the Paws a Banner of the Arms of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland;
and on the sinister side of the Throne, on a like compartment, is a Unicorn Sejant and addorsed, gorged with
a Prince's Crown, and supporting a banner of the Arms of the Duchy of Lancaster—viz. Gules, 3 Lions passant
guardant Or, a label of three points, each charged with three fleurs-de-lis. The ground of the Seal is diapered,
and round it is the Royal Style “Gulielmus quartus dei gratia Britanniarum Rex. Fidei Defensor.” On
the Reverse is an antique Shield of the Arms of the Duchy, placed in bend dexter, between two Ostrich
Feathers erect Ermine, each issuant from an Escrol. The shield is pendent by a belt from a Helmet, from
which flows the Lambrequin, and on the Helmet rests the Crest, being upon a Chapeau, turned up Ermine, a
Lion statant guardant, gorged with a Label of three points, each charged with three fleurs-de-lis. The Seal
is circumscribed with the inscription “Sigillum Ducatus Lancastriae.”
THE COUNTY PALATINE SEAL,
The ground of which is diapered, represents the King on Horseback in Armour, upon a Mount in base, with
the right arm elevated, and brandishing a sword. Upon the King's Helmet is placed the Crest, being on a
chapeau, a Lion statant guardant. On the dexter side, under the upraised Arm, is a rose ensigned by a
Prince's Coronet. The Caparisons of the Horse are ornamented with the letter L, ensigned with a like
Coronet, and with the Royal Motto, Dieu et Mon Droit. On the Mount, near the dexter foot of the King, is
a Talbot Dog courant, gorged with a collar. The whole is circumscribed “Sigillum Comitat: Palatin:
Lancastriae.” The Reverse of this Seal is also diapered, and bears a Shield of the Arms of the Duchy, as
above described, pendent by a belt from a Coronet, composed of Crosses patee and fleurs-de-lis, occupying
the upper part of the Seal. On a Mount, in base, are represented, on each side of the Shield, two Talbots
addorsed, each collared, and supporting an Ostrich Feather issuant from an Escrol. The Seal is thus circum-
scribed, “Gulielmus quartus dei grat. Britanniarum Rex: Fid: Def:”
Although the offices of the duchy, and the county palatine, except that of the chancellor's, are little
subject to political changes, the list of officers is frequently varying by the inevitable operations of time. In
July 1867 these lists were as follow :-
OFFICERS OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER,
Chancellor—Colonel John Wilson Patten, M.P. Clerk of the Council and Registrar—Joseph Henry Gooch, Esq.
Attorney-General—Henry Wyndham West, Esq. Clerk in Court in Causes—Edward Thomas Whitaker, Esq.
Queen's Sergeant—Charles Purton Cooper, Esq., Q.C. Surveyor-General of Lands and Woods of the Duchy—George
Queen's Counsel—Edward James, Esq. Q.C. - Legard, Esq.
2 3 5 3 Gordon Whitbread, Esq. Surveyor-General of House-Property and Buildings of the Duchy—
Receiver-General—General Fox. Sydney Smirke, Esq., R. A
Auditor—Francis Alfred Hawker, Esq. . Messenger—John Poundall.
OFFICERS OF THE COUNTY PALATINE.”
Chancellor—The Earl of Devon. Comptroller for the Liverpool and Manchester Districts—Peter
Vice-Chancellor—William Milbourne James, Esq., Q.C. Thomas Renand, Esq.
Secretary—Joseph Henry Gooch, Esq. Prothonotary (pro tem.)—Joseph Henry Gooch, Esq.
Attorney-General—Edward James, Esq., Q.C., M.P. Deputy-Prothonotary—Edmund Robert Harris, Esq.
Constable of Lancaster Castle—Thomas Greene, Esq. Clerk of the Crown—Thomas Starkie Shuttleworth, Esq.
Seal-Keeper—Thomas Starkie Shuttleworth, Esq. Clerk of the Peace—Robert John Harper, Esq.
Principal Registrar of Court of Chancery—Peter Catterall, Esq. Deputy-Clerks of the Peace—Messrs. Birchalſ and Wilson.
District Registrars, Preston—Joseph Catterall, Esq.
3 5 3 5 Manchester—Henry Wilbraham, Esq. High-Sheriff (1867)—Thos. Dicconson, Esq. of Wrightington Hall.
2 2 2 2 Liverpool—Jas. WinckworthWinstanley, Esq. Under-Sheriff—Thomas Part, Esq., Wigan.
Comptroller for the Preston District—Chr. Bland Walker, Esq. Deputy Under-Sheriffs—Messrs. Wilson and Deacon.
* Sir Edward Coke's Fourth Part of the Institutes of the Laws and other Constables, Keepers of Gaols, Bridgemasters, Surveyors,
Of England, fo. 210. etc.—see Appendix No. III.
* For a list of various other County Officers—as Coroners, Chief
CEHAP. W. (The #istorm of £ancashire. . - 55
From the institution of the duchy of Lancaster, seals were, no doubt, in use, and the words, “The seal
hitherto used,” in the act quoted above, serves to prove that it was not now introduced for the first time.
In the British Museum" there is a manuscript entitled “Ducatus Lancastriae,” on the subject of the
honors and dignities of the dukedom of Lancaster, written in the age of Elizabeth and attributed to Sir
William Fleetwood, recorder of London, one of the worthies of Lancashire, which supplies an hiatus in the
early period of the history of the Honor of Lancaster, wherein the learned civilian scrutinises the claims of
Edmund Crouchback to the title of earl of Lancaster, with as little ceremony as he was accustomed to use
in scrutinising the representations of the suitors in the recorder's court.
DUCATUS LANCASTRIAE.”
Lancaster is an ancient honor; its dukedom being made of a number of honors. Honors were dignities before the Conquest,
as may be seen by the agreement made between King Stephen and Henry, duke of Normandy, son to Maude the empress, for suc.
cession of the crown. Stephen was son to Adela, daughter to the Conqueror. After Stephen's death, Henry Plantagenet (son of
the empress), was king of England, and had issue Henry, whom he crowned king in his lifetime; after his death, Richard Coeur
de Lion, who created his brother John (Comte Sans Terre, Earl Lackland) earl of Lancaster and the town and territory of Bristol,
and the counties of Nottingham, Devon, and Cornwall. Richard died without issue, leaving young Arthur and his sister, children
of Geoffrey, his next brother [older than John] and heir. John, nevertheless, was crowned king of England, who had issue Henry
and Richard and four daughters. Henry (III.), his eldest son, is crowned king, and grants to his brother (Richard) the earldom of
Cornwall, with great possessions. In the 26 Henry III. (1241-2) came into England a nobleman, Piers of Savoy, who, because of his
wisdom and prudence, was of the king's council in all things. To him the king gave the whole earldom of Lancaster, parcel of
which earldom is the Savoy, a place without the bars of the new Temple, London, which in those days was known as a V.anaforia,
since named “Maner Mori Templi,” at this day the Savoy, parcel of the possessions of the dukedom of Lancaster. Piers of Savoy
built him a house there, calling it by the name of the country whence he came, the Savoy. This Piers, earl of Lancaster, being of
great age, and his son being an alien born, and therefore not capable of inheriting the earldom, it escheated to the king and was
vested in the crown. Henry III. had six sons and two daughters—John, Richard, William, Henry (who died without issue),
Edward, afterwards king by succession, and Edmund, surnamed Crouchback, of whom is descended the family and noble house of
Lancaster. For the king to the exalting of his blood, by letters patent, dated Lincoln, 8th August, in his 22d year (1327-8), granted
to his dearly beloved son Edmund the honor of Lancaster, with all men, wards, reliefs, escheats, rents, and all other things pertaining
to the honor, to be to him and the legitimate heirs of his body for ever. He also gave him and his heirs the honor of Leicester,
etc., on 17th June, 55th year (1271). There is not any record or proof extant that this Edmund was created either earl of Lancaster
or Leicester; * but an earl natural is evermore a king's son, who, by his birthright, is an earl born, etc. As King John, on King
Richard granting him the honor of Lancaster, was named earl of Lancaster, not by creation but by birthright ; so Edmund Crouch-
back had the two aforesaid honors granted him, and so was named earl of Lancaster and Leicester. The Honor of Lancaster, as by
record appears, extends chiefly into Lancashire, Middlesex, Norfolk, Suffolk, Lincoln, Nottingham, Derby, York, Rutland, and
Staffordshire, etc. Edmund Crouchback, second son of Henry III., being advanced to these honors and dignities, had two sons—
Thomas and Henry. This Thomas was erroneously attainted in a parliament of Edward II. by the policy of Hugh le Despencer,
the father and his son, and was put to death at Pontefract ; but in a parliament 1st Edward III. (1827), this judgment was re-
versed and the earl's dooms and possessions restored to the next heir, his brother Henry, who was not only earl of Lancaster and
Leicester by lineal descent, but also heritor to divers other earldoms, honors, etc. This Henry was afterwards created duke of Lan-
caster by Edward III. He had issue only one daughter, Blanche, afterwards married to John of Gaunt, by means whereof the said
John of Gaunt was created duke of Lancaster, and by the assent of the Lady Blanch, his wife, all the possessions of the dukedom
were lawfully conveyed to the said John the duke, the lady Blanche, and to the heirs of the body of John, etc. After which the
said John had issue of the said Blanche, Henry of Bolinbroke, afterwards king by the name of King Henry IV., who had issue
Henry V. The latter had issue Henry VI, which king had issue; after whose death the right and title to the dukedom, by force of
the said entail ſpassed] unto John, earl of Somerset, son of the said John, earl of Lancaster, by Catharine Swynford, third wife of the
duke; which John, earl of Somerset, had issue Margaret, the countess of Richmond and Derby; which Margaret had issue Henry
VII., who married Elizabeth, eldest daughter of Edward IV., by whom he had issue Henry VIII., who had issue, our sovereign
lady the Queen Elizabeth, in whose sacred person are contained the two houses of Lancaster and York, etc.

1 Harl. Coll. No. 2077. - earl of Leicester by letters-patent of 49 Henry III. (1264-5), and
* The original document being long and verbose, and full of con- earl of Lancaster 51 Henry III. (1266-7), both which patents are
tracted words, we give the above as its Substance,—H. still extant.
3 Serjeant Fleetwood is in error: Prince Edmund was created
56 Qſìje History of 3Lancagüirº.
CHAP. WI.
CHAPTER WI.
Creation of the County Palatine—Sheriffs from the Earliest Records—Courts of the County Palatine—Ecclesiastical and
other Courts—Assizes—Public Records of the County Palatine.—A. D. 1087 to 1836.
*Gººgºl,0SELY connected with the Duchy of Lancaster are the courts and privileges of the County
S. * Palatine. Upon the subject of the palatinate privileges, Selden observes, “that the counties
º ºf f § of Chester and Durham are such by prescription or immemorial custom, or at least as old as
the Norman Conquest ; but that Lancashire, as a palatine county, is of more modern date,
and was so created by Edward III. after it became a duchy, in favour of Henry Plantagenet,
§ first earl and then duke of Lancaster, whose heiress being married to John of Gaunt, the
king's son, the franchise was greatly enlarged and confirmed in parliament, to honour John of Gaunt himself,
whom, on the death of his father-in-law, the king had also created duke of Lancaster.”
Upon this subject the authorities are conflicting: Lancashire appears to have enjoyed palatine jurisdic-
tion under Earl Morcar, before the Norman Conquest ; but after that event, which changed the whole frame
of society, these privileges remained in abeyance till they were partially revived in the early part of the
twelfth century, and fully confirmed in the time of “the good duke of Lancaster,” and of John of Gaunt.
We give an extract from an original letter from Dr. “Kuerden, in his own hand,” dated Preston, 20th
Jan. 1664, to his brother, both in law and in pursuits, Mr. Randle Holme, in the Harleian Collection in the
British Museum —”
tº
gº
ſ:
*
iſ:
“Mr. Townly and myself are in hott pursuit of our coutryes affaires, and in retriuing the glory of our Palatinate out of monu-
métal ashes, and are able by this time to prove our county a Palatinate Jurisdiction under Rog. Pictavensis, before the grand Survey
of Doomsday's Record in ye Echdr and forfeted before that time, restored again in With the second's time, forfeited againe by
Pictavensis at the battell of Teuerchbuy, [Tewkesbury] in the beginning of Henry I., bestowed then on Stephen before he was king,
and continuated for his reigne in his son, W. Comes Boloniae et Moritoniae, till about the 5th of Richard the first, then given to Jo
Earl Moreton, afterwards to P. of Savoy, and by Henry 3d conferred on Edmund Crouchback, our first earl by charter, though some
of these latter had not their Jura Regalia as at first.”
Counties palatine are so called a palatio, because the owners thereof, the earl of Chester, the bishop of
Durham, and the duke of Lancaster, had in those counties jura regalia as fully as the king had in his palace ;
regalem potestatem in omnibus.” The peculiar jurisdiction and form of proceedings of the courts of law in the
county palatine of Lancaster are the result of those privileges which were granted to its early earls and
dukes, to induce them to be more than ordinarily watchful against the predatory incursions from the Scotch
border, and to prevent their tenants from leaving the territory defenceless and exposed to hostile agressions,
while seeking redress at the more distant tribunals of the realm." Law was to be administered by the officers
and ministers of the duke, and under his seal, and anciently all offences were said to be against his peace, his
Sword and dignity, and not as now “against the peace of our lord the king, his crown and dignity.” The
king's ordinary writs for redress of private grievances, or the punishment of offences between man and man,
were not available within the county palatine, such writs then ran in the name of the duke; but in matters
between the king and the subject, the palatine privileges could not contravene the exercise of the sovereign
power, and the prerogative writs were of force, lest injuries to the state should be remediless. Since 27
Henry VIII. (1535) all writs have run in the name of the king, and are tested before the owner of the fran-
chise. Hence it is that all ordinary writs out of the king's court at Wesminster, for service in this county,
are addressed to the chancellor of the duchy, commanding him to direct the sheriff to execute them, and that
all processes to that officer, out of the chancery of the county palatine, are not tested before the king or his
justices at Westminster, as in other counties. The franchise and revenue of the duchy being under different
guiding and governance from those of the crown, all honours and immunities, and all redress within this
county, with very few exceptions, must be derived from the chancellor of the duchy, as the principal minister
of the king, in his capacity of duke of Lancaster. Justices of assize, of gaol-delivery, and of the peace, are,
and ever since the creation of the county Palatine of Lancaster have been made and assigned by commission,
* Tit. Honour, part ii. sec. 8. p. 677. * Cod. 2042.
* Bracton, lib. iii. c. 8. sec. 4.
these were abolished by parliament ; the former, 27 Henry VIII.
(1535); the latter, 14 Elizabeth (1572). By the first mentioned
of these acts, the powers of owners of counties palatine were much
* Upon this account there were formerly two other counties pala-
tine,—border counties, as they were called,—Pembrokeshire and
Hexhamshire; the latter now united with Northumberland; but
abridged, the reason for their continuance having in a manner
ceased, though still all writs are witnessed in their names, and all
forfeitures for treason by the common law accrue to them.





chap. vi. * Qſì #igförg of £amtāşşire. 57
under the seal of the county palatine," and the sheriffs for the county of Lancaster are appointed in the same
way. The election of sheriff for this county palatine, in 1824, formed an exception to the general rule. The
practice is to date the writ before his majesty, “at his palace at Westminster;” but on this occasion, when
John Entwistle, Esq. of Foxholes, was appointed, that document was dated from “the palace of Brighton.”
Anciently sheriffs, like coroners, were chosen by the freeholders; but popular elections growing tumultuous,
this practice was abolished. • -
The choice of the sheriffs in the palatine counties is conducted in a different manner from that of the
choice of these officers, in the other counties of the kingdom. The usual mode of election is for the judges,
having met in the exchequer chamber on the morrow of St. Martin (Nov. 12), to return for each of the
counties, not palatine, the names of three persons, residents in each county, to the king—and for the king,
with a small instrument, to prick the name of one of the three, usually the first upon the list, as sheriff. But
for the county of Lancaster, the chancellor of the duchy selects the three names, which he submits to the
king, as duke of Lancaster, usually on some day between the 1st and the 20th of February in each year; and
the king chooses one of the three, generally that at the head of the list. In the early periods of British
history, the sheriffs continued in office for a number of years, as will be seen in the following list, and some
for the whole term of their life; but since the 28th Edward III. (1354), the office can only be held legally
for one year. Nor was it unusual in early times to elect to this office the most exalted peers of the realm.
Before the Conquest, the county of Lancaster, with some other jurisdictions, was committed to the earl of
Northumbria, in the large sense, and sometimes to the earl of Deira, being the more southern part of that
kingdom or province. The last of these earls in the Saxon times were earls Tosti and Morcar, whose pos-
sessions are noted in Domesday Book. . -
The following list is compiled from the manuscripts of Mr. Hopkinson, compared by the late Matthew
Gregson, Esq., with that of the late George Kenyon, Esq., which we have collated with and corrected from a
MS. (No. 259) in the British Museum, indorsed, “Nomina Vicecomitum collecta ex Rotulis Pellium recepta
apud Westmonasterium. De Termino Michaelis, anno primo Regis Edwardi primi” (1273).”
SHERIFFS OF LANCASHIRE,
FROM THE EARLIEST RECORDS To 1867.
NORMAN LINE. RICHARD I.
3. 1189. Gilbertus Pipard.
WILL. II. 1190. Henry de Cornhill.
1087. Galfridus was sheriff, and the only one named until 91. Idem, oval-, +
º Prºbly the person cºliº. Goiânii in the . .”
ºvey. “ : Ripå 7 Mersham.” * e
Domesday Survey Inter Ripå 7 Mersham 94. Theobald Walter and Wm. Radcliffe pro eo (Theobald
PLAN { F A e Walter, K.) -
LANTAGENET OF ANJOU 95. Idem Theobald and Benedictus Garnet pro eo.
HENRY II. 96. Idem. Idem.
. 97. Idem Theobald and Robertus Vavasor pro eo.
1156. Rad. Pigot, for four years. - * p in ann. º
1160. Robt. de Montalto, for three years. 98. Theobald Walter and Nicholas Pincerna pro eo.
63. Hugh de OWra. - J
- tº gº - OEIN.
# #º: 1199. Theobald Walter.
. Galniaus de Yalomus. - y 1200. Rob. de Tattershall (Rob. de Toteshal, K.)
66. William Vesci. I
67. Willielmus de Veseye. & : on- *
68. Rogerus de Herlebeck (Wm. de Vescye, K.) * - : Ricardus Vernon. -
nº # . º K.) Roger Lacy, Cons. Cest. Robt. Walensis, Rich. Vernon
72. #. º C ; I 1205. (K. omits the second). - .
73. i * ... [36].'Ila,I'Ci. William Vernon. Gilbertus fil. Roger and Rich. . . . .
74, Rad, fil. Bernardi (Rad. de Glanvill, K.) 1206. } 'º. º Fºl Reynfridi.
#. jº. or Robertus fil. Bernardi. 1207. Roger Lacy, Robert Wallensis, Gilbert fil. Reynfridi
. Radulphus fil. Bernardi (K. Rob. H.) Adam fil. Rog. pro eo 2 - ~
º, Roºm. Benºida al Banº, Kº 8. Gilbert fill Reynfidi and Adam fil. Rog, pro eo (Gilbert
l º, oval; fil. Reinford, K.)
to Radulphus fil. Bernardi. 1209
1183. - to Idem Gilbert and Adam, durante vita, Joh’s, regis.
84. Gilbert Pipard and Hugo. Gilbert Pipard. 1...g. ſIdem (1213, 1214, Reinford, K.)
85. Frater ejus pro eo. Alan Walans. 4.1- V's EI III. -
86. Gilbertus Pipard and Petrus frater ejus pro eo. Gilbert ENIRY III.
Pipard. - 1216. Ranulfus Comes Cestria.
87. Gilbertus Pipard and Petrus. 17. Ranulfus Comes Cestria and Jordanus fil.
88. Gilbertus Pipard. - 18. Idem Ranulfus and Jordanus, for five years the same.
1 Coke's 4th Institute, p. 205. * Coke's 2d Institute, p. 174. In the list above Kenyon's dates are followed, as comprising nearly
* Kenyon dates from the year of appointment; Hopkinson from ten months of the year's shrievalty. The authorities for various
the year in which the shrievalty ends ; so the apparent difference readings are marked K. for Kenyon, H. for Hopkinson, and G. for
of a year runs throughout their lists (Gregson's Fragments, p. 225). Greswell. The names in the text are generally from Hopkinson.—H.
I
58
Qſìje #istorg of £ancagüirº.
CHAP, WI.
1223. Idem Ranulfus and Jordanus (William Ferrars Comes,
24. Idem Ranulfus and Jordanus, and Will. Ferrars Comes.
Robertus Montjoy pro eo.
25. Idem Wills. and Robertus Custos pro eo.
26. Idem Willielmus and Gerardus Etwell pro eo (Idem
and Comes Ferrars, K.)
27. Adam de Eland, Cust, pro Will, com.
(Adam de Yeland only, K.)
28. Idem (some person appointed five years more, Eland
of Ebor.)
1233. Johannes Byron Miles, Will. de Lancaster (William de
Lancaster only, K.) Gilbert Westby pro eo.
34. William Lancaster, et Simo de Thornton, pro eo.
35. Idem Willielmus et Simo.
36. Robertus de Latham, idem Will. and Simo pro eo.
37. Same William and Simeon for six years.
1243. William Lancaster et Richard Butler pro eo.
44. Willielmus Lancaster.
45. Idem William and Mattheus Redmain.
46. (Mattheus Redmain alone, K.)
47. l Idem.
48. Idem Mattheus and Robert Latham (half-year, K.)
49. Robert Lathom.
Ditto, for seven years further.
Patricius de Ulnesby, for three years.
1256. Ult. an junct. Will. de Pincerna (de Bewsey).
(Patricius de Ulnesby, K.)
59. Galf. de Chetham ut Firmarius.
1260. Idem Galfridus for two years.
61. Idem Galf. (Radulfus Dacre and Gal. de Chetham,
half-year, K.)
62. Idem Galf, and Adam de Montalto.
63. Idem Adam and Robert de Latham (Adam de Mont-
alto, K.)
1272. Randulphus Dacre.
EDWARD I.
73. Thos. Travers.
74. William Gentyl (Henry de Lea, H.)
75. Ranulphus de Daker.
76. Nichus de Le.
77. Henry de Lea, or Hen, du Lee.
78. Gilbert de Clifton,
79. Rog. de Lancaster.
1280. Rudus de Montjoy.
81. Thomas Banester.
82. Rich. de Hoghton. (Gilb. de Clifton and Hen. de Lea, H.)
83. Thos. de Lancaster.
# | Henry de Lea.
86. Robert Latham and Gilbert Clifton pro eo (Gilbert Clif-
ton alone, K
87. Gilbert Clifton.
88. Robert de Leyborne,
89." Gilbert Clifton.
1290. Roger de Lancaster.
91. Radus Mountjoy (to 1297, K.)
92. Richard Hoghton and Rads. de Montegaudeo, or Mount-
OW.
1292 JOy
to . Idem Radulphus Montegaudeo, or Montjoy.
1298.
99. Edmund Comes Lancaster and Richard Hoghton pro eo
(Thomas Lancaster, by inheritance with Rich. Hoghton,
1300. Richard Hoghton for two years.
1. Thos. Travers and Richard Hoghton.
2. Thos. Travers,
EDWARD II.
1303
to Thos. Earl of Lancaster.
1308.
1309. Willielmus Genty].
10. Thos. Earl of Lancaster.
1311
to Richard de Bickerstath.
1320.
21. Gilbertus Southworth (Wm. le Gentyl, K.)
23 John d’Arcy.
iº | Edward Stanley, miles.
12.
14.
EDWARD III.
Wm. Gentyl.
Jolies de Hambury.
Johes de Burghton.
Johes de Hambury and Galfrus de Warburton.
Johes de Denon.
! Robertus Foucher (others Say Toucher).
Willielmus Clapham.
Robertus Ratcliffe of Ordsall.
Stephanus Ireton.
Johes le Blount.
Johannes Cockayne.
Ricardus Ratcliffe.
Willielmus Radcliffe.
Johannes I pree,
Willielmus Radcliffe.
Johannes Ipree, vice-sheriff (no sheriff's name found).
Galfrus de Chetham.
Richard Townley.
RICHARD II.
Richard Townley.
Thos. de Bobbeham.
Nicholas Harrington, for six years.
Rads. Ratcliffe, for three years.
Robertus Standish.
Rads. Standish, miles.
Johannes Butler de Rawcliffe, miles, for two years more,
Ricardus Mollineux.
|HOUSE OF LANCASTER.
HENRY IV.
Thomas Gerard.
Johannes Butler.
Johannes Butler.
Radulphus Radcliffe.
Radulfus Radcliffe, miles.
Johannes Bold.
Johannes Bold, miles.
ſº | Radulfus Stanley, miles.
HENRY W.
Rads. Stanley, miles, and Nicholas Longford.
William Bradshaw and Robert Longford.
Robertus Urswick.
Robertus Lawrence.
| Ricardus Radcliffe.
HENRY WI.
Ricardus Radcliffe, for three years.
Robertus Lawrence.
Johannes Byron, Knt.
(Idem John, H.)
HOUSE OF YORK.
Nichus Byron.
EDWARD IV.
Johannes Broughton.
Thomas Pilkington.
Robtus Urswick, miles.
Thos. Pilkington, arm.
Thos. Molineux, arm.
Thos. Pilkington, miles.
HOUSE OF TUDOR.
TJNION OF YORK AND LANCASTER,
HENRY WII.
HENRY WIII.
Edwardus Stanley, miles.
Idem (Postea Dom. Monteagle, K.)
CHAP. VI.
59
Çiſt ºftistory of £ancashire.
l % } Edwardus Stanley.
28.
1532.
42.
46.
47.
48.
49.
1550.
51.
1603.
4.
Alex. Osbaldeston, miles.
Johes Townley, miles.
Thos. Southworth, miles.
Alex. Radcliffe, miles.
EDWARD VI.
Alexander Radcliffe, miles (Richard Radcliffe, K.)
Thomas Gerrard, miles.
Robert Worsley, miles (T. Gerrard, K.)
Peter Legh, miles (R. Worsley, miles, K.)
John Atherton, miles (Peter Legh de Lime, mil. John
Atherton, K). -
Thomas Talbot, miles.
Thomas Gerrard, Imiles.
MARY.
Marmaduke Tunstall, mil.
John Atherton, miles.
Thomas Langton, miles.
Edward Trafford, miles.
Thomas Gerrard, miles.
ELIZABETH.
John Talbot, Esq.
Robert Worsley, Knt.
John Atherton, Knt.
John Southworth, Knt.
Thomas Hesketh, Knt.
Thomas Hoghton, Esq. (of Hoghton).
Edmund Trafford.
Richard Molineux, Knt. (of Sefton).
Thomas Langton, Knt.
Edward Holland, Esq. (of Denton, G.)
John Preston, Esq. of the Manor.
Thomas Butler, Esq.
Edmund Trafford, Esq.
John Byron, Esq.
Richard Holland, Esq.
William Booth, Esq.
Francis Holt, Esq.
Richard Bold, Esq."
Robert Dalton, Esq.
John Fleetwood, Esq. (of Rosshall).
Ralfe Ashton, Esq. (of Middleton).
Edmund Trafford, Knt.
John Biron, Knt.
Richard Holland, Esq.
John Atherton, Esq.
Edmund Trafford (Thomas Preston, K.) -
Thomas Preston, Esq. (Richard Asheton, Esq., K.)
Richard Asheton (and Richard Bold, Esqs., K.)
John Fleetwood, Esq. (of Penwortham).
Thomas Talbot, of Bashall, Esq.
Richard Molineux, Knt.
Richard Bold, Esq.
James Asheton, Esq. (of Chaderton).
JEdward Fitton, Esq.
Richard Asheton, Esq. (of Middleton).
Ralph Ashton, Esq. (of Lever).
Thomas Talbot, Esq. (of Bashall).
Richard Holland, Esq.
Richard Molyneux, Knt.
Richard Asheton, Esq. (of Middleton).
Richard Hoghton, Knt. (Rob. Hesketh, Esq., G.)
Robert Hesketh, Esq. (Sir Richard Hoghton, G.)
Cuthbert Halsall, Esq. (Sir Cuthbert Hoghton, G.)
Ldmund Trafford, Knt. (Esq., G.)
HOUSE OF STUART.
- JAMES I.
John Ireland, Esq.
Nicholas Moseley, Knt.
1605.
6
Ralph Barton, Esq. (Rand, Barton, Esq.)
Edmund Fleetwood, Esq.”
Richard Ashton, Knt. (of Middleton and Whalley).
Robert Hasketh, Esq.
Edmund Trafford, Knt.
Roger Nowell, Esq. (Roger A. Nowell, Esq., K.)
John Fleming, Esq.
Cuthbert Halsall, Knt.
Robert Bindloss, Esq. (of Borwick, K.)
Richard Sherborne, Esq. (Richard Sherburne, Stony-
hurst, K.)
Edmund Stanley, Esq.
Rowland. Moseley, Esq. (Robert Moseley, K.)
Edmund Trafford, Knt.
Richard Shuttleworth, Esq.
John Holt, Esq.
Leonard Ashawe, Esq. (Leonard Ashall, or Ashow, K.)
Edmund Moore, Esq. (of Bank Hall).
Gilbert Ireland, Esq. (of Hale).
Sir George Booth, Knt. and Baronet.
Sir Rafe Asheton, Baronet.

CHARLES I.
Richard (or Edward, K.) Holland, Esq.
Roger Kirkby, Esq.
Sir Edward Stanley, Baronet.
Edmund Ashton, Esq. (of Chaderton).
Edward Rawsthorne, Esq.
Thomas Hesketh, Esq.
. Richard Bold, Esq.
Nicholas (or Richard, K.) Townley, Esq.
Rafe Ashton, Esq. (of Middleton).
Ralph Standish, Esq. (of Standish).
Humfry Chetham, Esq. (The Benefactor, K.) Manchester.
William Farington, Esq.
Richard Shuttleworth, Esq.
Roger Kirkby, Esq.
Sir Edward Stanley, Baronet.
Robert Holt, Esq. (Richard Holt, K.)
Peter Egerton, Esq.
John Girlington, Knt.
Gilbert Hoghton, Esq. (Bart. K.)

John Bradshaw, Esq. (No Sheriffs elected during the
Civil Wars—Gregson.) -
COMMON WEALTH.
Gilbert Ireland, Knt., until May 1649.
John Hartley, of Strangeways, gentleman, until
December 1649.
Edward Hopwood, of Hopwood, Esq.
Henry Wrigley, gentleman, Chamber Hall
(A. Wrigley, K.
Alexander Barlow, of Barlow, Esq.
John Parker, of Entwistle, Esq.
Peter Bold, of Bold, Esq.
John Atherton, of Chowbent, Esq.
John Starkie, of Huntroyd, Esq.
Hugh Cooper, of Chorley, Esq.
Robert Bindloss, Esq. of Borwick Hall.
Sir Richard Hoghton, Baronet.
RESTORATION.
CHARLES II.
George Chetham, Esq. of Turton.
! Sir George Middleton, Baronet.
J. Girlington, Esq.
Thomas Preston, Esq.
William Spencer, Esq., two years.
John Arden, Esq.
| Thomas Greenhalgh (of Brandlesome, Esq., K.)
1 Fuller, in his Worthies, has a different order of succession for
the four years 1572-75—viz. 1572 (14 Elizabeth), Francis Holt;
1573, Richard Holland; 1574, William Booth; and 1575, Francis
Holt again; omitting John Byron. -
* Fuller omits John Ireland, and gives the three following—
Nicholas Moseley, Knt., Thomas Baker, Esq., and Edward Fleet-
wood, Esq.
Qſìje ??ištúrg ºf 3Lancashire.
CHAP. VI.
I685.
88.
I689.
1690.
1731.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38,
39.
1740.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
1750.
51.
52.
53.
54.
55.
56.
57.
58.
59.
1760.
Christopher Banister, Esq.
Henry Slater, Knt.
| Sir Robert Bindloss, Baronet (of Borwick Hall, K.)
Peter Brooks, Knt. (Butterworth, K.)
Alexander Butterworth, Esq. of Belfield.
Idem Alexander Rigby, Esq.
Alexander Rigby, Esq.
Idem (of Layton, K.)
Sir Rodger Bradshaw, Bart, (of Haigh, K.)
William Johnson, Esq. of Rishton Grange (William
Spencer, K.)
Lawrence Rosthorn, Esq. of White Hall.
Idem. (Thomas Leigh, Esq., K.)
Thomas Legh jun., Esq. of Lyme.
Idem. (Peter Shakerley, Esq., K.)
JAMES II.
Peter Shakerley, of Shakerley, Esq.
William Spencer, Esq., two years. (Peter Shakerley, K.)
Thomas Richardson, of Rawnhead, nominated, but not
SWOTil IIl.
WILLIAM AND MARY.
Jas. Birch, Esq. of Birch Hall.
Peter Bold, Esq. of Bold (Alexander Rigby, K.)
Alexander Rigby, Esq. (Layton).
Francis Livesey, Esq., of Livesey or Manchester
(Thomas Rigby, K.)
Thomas Rigby, Esq. of Gorse.
Thomas Ashurst, of Ashurst, Esq.
Richard Spencer, Esq. of Preston.
Thomas Norris, Esq. of Speke.
Boger Manwaring, Esq. of Morley.
Wm. West, Esq. of Middleton.
Robert Dukenfield, Esq. of Dukenfield (Thomas Rigby
of Middleton, K.)
(Hulme, of Davy
Thomas Rigby, of Middleton, Esq.
Hulme, K.)
William Hulme, Esq. (of Davy Hulme).
ANNE.
Roger Nowel, of Read, Esq.
Peter Egerton, of Shaw, Esq.
George Birch, of Birch Hall, Esq. Succeeded by his
brother, Thomas Birch.
Richard Spencer, of Preston, Esq.
Christopher Dauntesey, of Agecroft.
Edmund Cole, of Lancaster and Cote.
Miles Sandes, of Graythwaite, Esq.
Roger Kirkby (ob, this year). Succeeded by Alexander
Hesketh, Esq.
Roger Farker, of Extwisle, near Burnley, Esq.
Sir Thomas Standish, of Duxbury, Bart.
Wm. Rawsthorne, of Preston, Esq.
Richard Walantine, of Preston and Benteliffe (Exeter),
Esq.
William Farington, of Werden, Esq.
Hous E OF BRUNSWICK.
GEORGE I.
Jonathan Blackburn, of Orford, Esq.
Thomas Crisp, Esq., Wigan and Parbold.
Samuel Crooke, of Crooke, Esq.
Richard Norris, of Liverpool and Speke, Esq.
Thomas Stanley, of Clithero, Esq.
Robert Mawdesley, of Mawdesley, Esq.
Benjamin Hoghton, Esq.
Benjamin Gregg, Esq., Chamber Hall.
Sir Edward Stanley, of Bickersteth, Bart.
William Tatham, Esq., Over Hall.
Miles Sandys, of Graithwait, Esq.
Edmund Hopwood, of Hopwood, Esq.
GEORGE II.
Dr. Daniel Wilson, of Dalham Tower.
Joseph Yates, of Peel, near Manchester, Esq.
William Greenhalgh, of Myerscough, Esq.
James Chetham, of Smedley, Esq.
William Leigh, of West Houghton.
John Parker, of Breightmet, Esq.
John Greaves, of Kilshaw, Esq., or Culchith.
Dr. Bushel, of Preston, M.D.
Arthur Hambleton, of Liverpool, Esq.
Darcy Lever, of Alkrington, Knt. LL.D.
Thomas Horton, of Chadderton, Esq.
Samuel Chetham, of Castleton, Esq.
Sir Ralph Asheton, of Middleton, Bart.
Roger Hesketh, of Meols, Esq.
Robert Duckenfield, of Manchester.
Robert Bankes, of Winstanley.
John Blackburne, of Orford, Esq.
Robert Radcliffe, of Foxdenton, Esq.
Daniel Willis, of Red Hall, Esq. (now Halstenhead).
William Shaw, of Preston, Esq.
Sam. Birche, of Ardwicke, Esq.
Geo. Clarke, of Hyde, Esq.
Tigby Molineux, of Preston, Esq.
Charles Stanley, Esq., Cross Hall.
James Fenton, of Lancaster, Esq.
Richard Townley, jun. of Belfield, Esq.
John Bradshaw, of Manchester, Esq.
Thomas Hesketh, of Rufford, Esq.
Thomas Johnson, of Manchester, Esq.
James Barton, of Penwortham, Esq.
James Bailey, of Withington, Esq.
Robert Gibson, of Myerscough Planks, Esq.
Edward Whitehead, of Claughton, Esq.
Samuel Hilton, of Pennington, Esq.
GEORGE III.
Sir William Farington, of Shaw Hall, Knt.
Thomas Braddle, of Conishead, Esq.
Thomas Blackburne, of Hale, Esq.
Sir William Horton, of Chadderton, Bart.
John Walmesley, of Wigan, Esq.
Edward Gregg, of Chamber Hall, Esq.
Alexander Butler, of Kirkland, Esq.
Thomas Butterworth Bayley, of Hope, Esq.
Dorning Rasbotham, of Birch House, Esq.
Nicholas Ashton, of Liverpool, Esq.
Sir Ashton Lever, of Alkrington, Knt.
William Cunliffe Shaw, Esq., Preston.
Thomas Patten, Esq., Warrington.
Geoffrey Hornby, of Preston, Esq.
Sir Watts Horton, of Chadderton, Bart.
Lawrence Rawsthorne, Preston, Esq.
Samuel Clowes, of Chorlton, Esq.
Wilson Gale Bradyall, Esq., Conishead.
John Clayton, of Carr, Esq., or Little Harwood.
John Atherton, Esq., Walton Hall, Liverpool.
John Blackburn, Esq., Orford, now Hale.
Sir Frank Standish, Duxbury, Bart.
James Whalley, Esq., Clerk Hill, Whalley.
Wm. Bankes, of Winstanley, Esq.
John Sparling, Esq., Liverpool.
Sir John Parker Mosely, of Ancoats, Bart.
William Bamford, of Bamford, Esq.
Edward Falkner, of Fairfield, near Liverpool, Esq.
William Hulton, of Hulton, Esq.
Charles Gibson, Esq., of Lancaster, now Quernmore.
James Starkie, of Heywood, Esq.
William Asheton, of Cuerdale, Esq., now Downham.
Thomas Townley Parker, of Cuerden, Esq.
Sir Henry Philip Hoghton, of Walton, Bart.
Robinson Shuttleworth, of Preston, Esq.
Richard Gwillym, Bewsey, Esq.
Bold Fleetwood Hesketh, of Rossal, Esq.
John Entwistle, of Foxholes, Esq.
Joseph Starkie, of Royton, Esq.
James Ackers, of Lark Hill, Esq.
Sir Thomas Dalrymple Hesketh, Bart., Rufford.
Robert Gregg Hopwood, of Hopwood, Esq.
Isaac Blackburne, Esq.
Thomas Lister Parker, of Browsholme, Esq.
Meyrick Bankes, of Winstanley, Esq.
Le Gendre Pierce Starkie, of Huntroyd, Esq.
Richard (Cross) Legh, of Shawe Hill and Adlington, Esq.
Thomas Clayton, of Carr Hall, Esq.
ºl łº, , ! * . . . * * *
§º R - ! ; ; iłł ~ *
f ,
*ś, | ; ; ; ;
- ** , , ! . .
CHAP. VI. (The #istorm of £antagjire. 61
1809. Samuel Clowes, of Broughton, Manchester, Esq. WICTORIA.
1810. William Hulton, of Hulton, Esq. 1837. Th a; * g
11. Sam. Chetham Hilton, of Moston Hall, Esq. § wº. ºSQ.
}} Edward Greaves of Culcheth, Esq. 39. Charles Scarisbrick, of Scarisbrick, Esq.
13. William Fººingtºn, of Shawe Hall, Big 1840. Thomas Fitzherbert Brockholes, of Brockholes, Esq.
14. Lawrence Rºwshºne. P enwortham, º: 41. Sir Thomas Bernard Birch, of the Hazles, Bart.
15. Le Gendre Pierce Starkie, Huntroyd, Esq. 42. Thomas Robert Wilson France, of Rawcliffe Hall, Esq.
16. William Townley. Townhº, Esq. 43. William Garnett, of Lark Hill, Salford, Esq.
17. Robert Townley Parker, of Cuerden, Esq. 44. John Fowden Hindle, of Woodfold Park, Esq.
18. Joseph Fielden, Wetton House, Esq. 45. Pudsey Dawson, of Hornby Castle, Esq.
19. John Walmesley, Castle Mere, Esq. 46. William Standish Standish, of Duxbury Park, Esq.
47. William Gale, of Lightburne House, Ulverston, Esq.
GEORGE IV. 48. Sir Thomas George Hesketh, of Rufford Hall, Bart.
1820. Robt. Hesketh, Rossal, Esq. 49. John Smith Entwisle, of Foxholes, Rochdale, Esq.
g & g 1850. Clement Royds, of Mount Falinge, Rochdale, Esq.
21. Thomas Richard Gale Braddyll, Conishead Priory, Esq. ygs, ge, , ESQ.
º º q 51. Thomas Percival Heywood, of Claremont, Esq.
: hº Lodge, Esq. * 52. Thomas Weld-Blundell, of Ince Blundell, Esq.
24. John Entwistle, Foxholes, Esq. 53. John Talbot Clifton, of Lytham Hall, Esq.
54. Richard Fort, of Read Hall, Esq.
25. John Hargreaves, Ormerod House, Esq. rº 2 , Fºg. . ---
26. James Penny Machell, Penny Bridge, Esq. 55. John Pemberton Heywood, of Norris Green, West Derby,
27. Chas. Gibson, Quernmore Park, Esq. Esq. g = 9 g
28. Edmund Hornby, Dalton Hall, #. 56. Robert Needham Philips, of The Park, Prestwich, Esq.
º 57. Charles Towneley, of Towneley, Esq.
29. Henry Bold Hoghton, Bold Hall and Hoghton Tower, 58. George Marton, of Capernwray, Esq.
59. Sir Robert Tolver Gerard, of Garswood, Bart.
1860. Henry Garnett, of Wyreside, Esq.
Esq.
1830. Peter Hesketh, Rossal Hall, Esq.
- 61. Sir Humphrey de Trafford, of Trafford Park, Bart.
WILLIAM IV. 62. Wm. Allen Francis Saunders, of Wennington Hall, Esq.
1831. Peregrine Edward Towneley, of Towneley, Esq. 63. Sir William Brown, of Richmond Hill, Liverpool, Bart.
32. Geo. Rich. Marton, of Caponwray, Esq. 64. Sir James Philips Kay-Shuttleworth, of Gawthorpe,
33. Sir John Gerard, of New Hall, Bart. Burnley, Bart.
34. Thomas Joseph Trafford, of Trafford, Esq. 65. William Preston, of Ellel Grange and Liverpool, Esq.
35. Thomas Clifton, of Lytham, Esq. 66. Sir Elkanah Armitage, Pendleton, Manchester, Knight.
36. Charles Standish, of Standish, Esq. 67. Thomas Dicconson, of Wrightington Hall, Esq.
The county palatine of Lancaster is parcel of the duchy of Lancaster, and the king has a seal, chancellor,
and other officers, for the county palatine, and others for the duchy, both of which are managed separately
from the possessions of the king." It is one of the privileges of a county palatine, that none of its inhabitants
can be summoned out of their own county, except in case of treason, or error, by any writ or process.” In
the early periods of the palatine privileges in Lancashire, these distinctions of law were not so well under-
stood as at present ; hence a number of legal harpies were in the daily habit of seizing the inhabitants and
their property, and conveying them away under form of law, though they had no jurisdiction whatever in
the county. These violent and illegal proceedings kept those parts of the county wherein they were practised
in a continual ferment. Large assemblies of the people rose to resist the intruders; and riots, and even
murders, frequently ensued. So intolerable an evil called for a strong remedy, which the law had not then
provided, but in 28 Henry VI. (1449-50) an act was passed, by which it was ordained, that if any “misruled”
persons, under colour of law, made a distress where they had no fee, seigniory, or cause, to take such distress
in the counties and seigniories in Wales, or in the duchy of Lancaster, they should be adjudged guilty of
felony, and punished accordingly.” An ancient petition to parliament from the inhabitants of this county
has been preserved in the Tower of London, wherein that protection was loudly called for, which the legisla-
ture were not slow to grant. A most extraordinary piece of legislation, relating to the county palatine of
Lancaster, took place four years after this, by which an act, made for a temporary purpose, was declared
perpetual. By this act it was ordained, that if any person should be outlawed in the county palatine of
Lancaster, he should forfeit such of his land and goods as were found in that county, but in no other ;” 31
Henry VI. (1453), and that this should be the extent of his punishment, however aggravated might be his
offence. The effect of such a law was to encourage crime to an alarming extent, for if any “foreigner” came
into the county palatine of Lancaster, and committed any treason, murder, or robbery, or made and violated
any contract, the sole redress for the injured party was against his lands and effects in the county, which
generally were of no value. The pernicious consequence of this law soon became too palpable to be endured,
and, two years after it had been made “perpetual,” it was repealed in 33 Henry VI. 1455. The defeat of
this insidious measure did not prevent its repetition in the seventh year of the reign of Henry VII. (1491-2).
when, in the absence of the “knights of the shire, and other noble persons of the county,” an act of parlia-
ment was obtained, at the instance, and by the influence, of a single individual, probably one of the adherents
of the deposed tyrant Richard, by which it was ordained that persons residing out of the county should
1 Plow. Com. p. 219, on the duchy of Lancaster case, so elaborately argued, by which it was decided that a lease under the duchy seal
of land, parcel of the duchy of Lancaster, made by Edward VI. in his nonage, to commence after the end of a former lease in esse, was
good, and not avoidable by reason of his nonage. * Coke's 4th Institute, p. 411. 3 Statutes of the Realm, vol. ii. p. 356.
* Statutes of the Realm, vol. ii. p. 365.
62 (The #istory of £antagüirº. ..CHAP. VI.
neither be liable to process in the county of Lancaster, nor should forfeit, for their offences in the county,
any goods but such as were to be found within its limits. It may easily be conceived that no long time was
necessary to discover this legislative error; and, accordingly, we find that, in the very same parliament, an
act was passed (1491), which, after reciting “that the Countie of Lancastre is and of long tyme hath byn a
Countie Palantyne, made and ordeyned for grete consideracion, and within the same hath byn had and used
Jurisdiccion Roiall, and all things to a Countie Palantyne belonging, in the dayes of the noble Progenitours
of our Soverayn Lord the King, unto the begynnyng of this present Parliament,” proceeds to enact, “that
the said County Palatyne, and every parte of the Jurisdiccion therof, be in every poynt touching all Processes,
Forfaitures, and other thinges, as large, and of like force and effecte, as it was the day next before the first
day of this present Parliament, and as if the said Acte had not bin made.”
The wars between the rival houses of York and Lancaster still agitated the country. The madness of
party raged with its utmost violence, and men of fortune and influence were accustomed to equip their
partisans in liveries, and to furnish them with badges of distinction indicating to which house they belonged.
The natural consequence of this conduct was to increase the general agitation, and to embarrass the adminis-
tration of the laws. It is probable also, that there were local feuds mixed up with these elements of general
discord, which so far exceeded the corrective power of the police, that a law was enacted, by which it was
declared that no person should give liveries or badges, or retain, as their menial servants, officers, or men
learned either in civil or ecclesiastical law, by any oath or promise, under the penalty of one hundred shillings
per month for every person so retained, to be recovered before the justices at their usual sessions of oyer and
terminer, or before the king's justices in the counties palatine of Lancaster and Chester. The palatine
privilege had in the reign of Edward VI. been perverted to the injury of the inhabitants, by subjecting them
to the consequences of outlawry without their knowledge. As the king's writ of proclamation awarded upon
an exigent against any inhabitant of Lancashire, in any action involving the process of outlawry, did not run
in Lancashire, it was necessarily sent to the sheriff of an adjoining county, and the consequence was, that
many persons were outlawed without their own knowledge. When the trade and commerce of the county
began to be extended, this grievence manifested itself so frequently, that an act was passed (6 Edward VI.
1552), whereby it was enacted, that whenever any writ or exigent from the court of king's bench or common
pleas should issue against any person residing in Lancashire, a writ of proclamation should be awarded to
the sheriff of the county palatine of Lancaster, and not to the sheriff of any adjoining county; and that the
sheriff of Lancashire should make and return the proclamation accordingly.
During the civil wars between prerogative and privilege, when Charles I. had the nominal authority of
the sovereign, but when the two houses of Parliament exercised the royal functions, the powers of the duke
of Lancaster, like those of the king of England, were assumed by the founders of the commonwealth ; and an
ordinance remains upon record (of 10th February 1644), by which John Bradshaw of Bradshaw, in the
county of Lancaster, Esq., was appointed to the office of sheriff of this county, which office he held for four
successive years, in contravention of the Act of 28 Edw. III. (1354), till the king was deposed, and until he, the
sheriff of the county palatine of Lancaster, in the capacity of president of the parliamentary tribunal,
consigned his monarch to the block. With the restoration in 1660, the authority and the revenues of the
duke of Lancaster reverted to the king. In order to secure the ducal prerogatives and the ancient privileges
of the county, a number of courts have, in the succession of ages, risen up in Lancashire, involving the juris-
prudence of the county. The reason of these immunities, as assigned by Sir Edward Coke, is, “for that the
county of Lancaster is a county palatine, and the duke,” at its institution, “had jura regalia,” or royal pre-
rogatives, within the county—“to exercise all manner of jurisdiction, high, mean, and low.” “This county
palatine (of Lancaster) adds Sir Edward, was the youngest brother, and yet best beloved of all other, for it
hath more honors, manors, and lands annexed unto it than any of the rest, by the house of Lancaster, and by
Henry VIII. and Queen Mary, albeit they were descended also of the house of York, viz. –from Elizabeth, the
eldest daughter of Edward IV.” The nature of the courts in the duchy and county palatine of Lancaster,
ecclesiastical, civil, and criminal, may be thus stated:—
THE ECCLESIASTICAL COURTS ARE
The Prerogative Court of York, within which province this county lies; the Court for the Dioceses of Man-
chester and Chester; and the Court for the Archdeaconry of Richmond. Probates of wills and letters of
administration, of persons dying within the county of Lancaster, have ceased to be granted by the ecclesiastical
and diocesan courts of Manchester and Chester, and are now, under the Probate Act of 1847, granted by her
Majesty's Courts of Probate, of which there are three in Lancashire—one at Manchester for the city of Man-
chester and the hundred of Salford; one at Lancaster for the county, except the hundreds of West Derby (dio-
cese of Chester) and Salford, and the city of Manchester (diocese of Manchester); and one at Liverpool for the
hundred of West Derby (within the diocese of Chester). Of these Probate Courts the Registrars (1867) are—
* Statutes of the Realm, vol. ii. p. 426.
CHAP. VI. Qſìje ??istory of £ancashire. 63
Manchester, John Burder, Esq.; Liverpool, C. R. Ogden, Esq.; Lancaster, John Sharp, Esq. Until the insti-
tution of the bishopric of Chester (32 Henry VIII. 1540), at the period of the Reformation, Lancashire lay
within the dioceses of Lichfield and Coventry, and wills proved from this county, at that time, were deposited
at Lichfield, where those wills now remain.
THE COURTS OF DAW ARE–
ſ”. The High Court of Chancery.
* The Exchequer.
The Chancery of the Duchy.
- The Chancery of the County Palatine.
SUPERIOR COURTS. * * The Queen's Bench.
* The Common Pleas at Westminster.
The Common Pleas at Lancaster.
The Judges' Commission of all manner of Pleas,
U. The Commission of Oyer and Terminer,
The Courts Marked thus * have a general jurisdiction, and are not peculiar to this county.
Sessions for the County and for Boroughs.
Coroner's Court.
For the County and for Boroughs.
Leets for Hundreds and for Manors.
Borough Courts.
Piedpoudre Courts.
Courts of Requests.
By Justicias.
By Replevin.
By Plaint.
By Replevin.
By Plaint.
Copyhold.
Customary.
Copyhold.
Customary.
By Plaint.
, Of Record . . . Criminal.
Civil.
INFERIOR COURTS, -
County.
Not of Record. - For
Hundreds.
For Honors.
For Manors.
*
THE HIGH CouTT OF CHANCERY, AND THE COURT OF ExCHEQUER,
have concurrent jurisdiction in this county with the Chanceries of the Duchy, and the county Palatine, in all
matters requiring the interference of equity to remedy the defects, or mitigate the rigours, of law. But in affairs
where the authority is derived by statute, or commission from the crown, as in bankruptcy and matters of a fiscal
nature, the lord chancellor has an exclusive jurisdiction, and the barons of the exchequer paramount authority.
THE CHANCERY OF THE DUCHY OF LANCASTER
is practically obsolete, but not abolished. It used to be a court of appeal for the chancery of the county
palatine; but now all appeals from the latter go to the Lords Justices. It has a nominal jurisdiction in re-
ference to the estates of the duchy, which lie in various counties.
THE CHANCERY OF THE COUNTY PALATINE OF LANCASTER
is an original and independent court, as ancient as the 50th of Edward III. (1376), and the proceedings are
carried on by English bill and decree. The office is at Preston, and the court was formerly held four times
a-year, namely, once at each assize at Lancaster, and once at Preston in the interval of each assize. This
court is now appointed to be held at Preston, Liverpool, and Manchester. The business at Preston, however,
is so light, that, by arrangement, there is seldom a court at Preston; the Preston business being taken at
Tiverpool or at Manchester, as more convenient to the bar, etc. The process of the court is by subpoena,
attachment, attachment with proclamations, commission of rebellion, sequestration, and writ of assistance, etc.;
and the general practice of the court, except in some particular cases where it is governed by its own par-
ticular rules, is similar to the practice of the high court of chancery in almost everything, except in despatch
and expense. The chancery of Lancashire has concurrent jurisdiction with the high court of chancery in all
matters of equity, whether concerning lands lying within the palatine, or concerning transitory suits, its cog-
nisance of which depends on the person or lands of the defendant being amenable to the process of this court ;
but its jurisdiction is exclusive of all other courts of equity, when both the subject of the Suit, and the residence
of the parties litigant are within the county; and in such case a defendant may insist on his right to be sued
in this chancery by demurrer or plea to any other equitable process.
The court, in point of fact, exercises a concurrent jurisdiction with the high court of chancery in all
matters of equity within the county palatine, particularly in matters of account, fraud, mistake, trusts, fore-
closures, tithes, infants, partition, and specific performance of contracts and agreements. It also interferes to
64 (The #igturn of £ancashire. CHAP. VI.
restrain parties from proceeding in actions at law, and for that purpose grants the writ of injunction. And
it also issues injunctions to stay waste and trespass in cases where irreparable mischief might arise, unless the
parties were immediately restrained from doing the acts complained of. It is likewise auxiliary or assistant
to the jurisdiction of courts of law, as by removing legal impediments to the fair decision of a question de-
pending, either by compelling a discovery which may enable them to decide, or by perpetuating testimony
when in danger of being lost, before the matter to which it relates can be made the subject of judicial investi-
gation. It also has jurisdiction, on ex-parte applications, in appointing guardians for infants, and in allowing
them a competent maintenance out of their property, and in enabling them to make conveyances of their
trust and mortgaged estates for the benefit of the parties beneficially entitled. Although the bills are addressed
to the chancellor of the duchy, the vice-chancellor of the county palatine is the judge of the court, and the
causes and all motions and petitions are set down and heard before him. The chancellor of the duchy,
assisted by the two judges in commission for the county palatine, sits to hear causes at Westminster, either
commenced originally in the duchy chamber, or which have been transmitted there by way of appeal from the
court of chancery of the county palatine.
THE COURT OF QUEEN's BENCH AND THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS AT WESTMINSTER
have concurrent jurisdiction with the court of common pleas for the county palatine of Lancaster in almost all
cases, and will enforce their jurisdiction over personal actions, unless conusance of the cause be claimed, or the
palatinate jurisdiction be pleaded, or error be brought, after judgment by default, with the venue laid in
Lancashire, and the want of an original be assigned for error. In the two first instances, the superior courts
cannot refuse to allow the privilege when properly claimed ; and in the last, the want of jurisdiction becomes
apparent, from the circumstance of there being, in the chancery at Westminster, cursitors for the issuing of
writs into every county but the counties palatine ; and therefore, upon a cause of action arising in Lancashire,
there is no proper officer from whom an original could have been obtained to warrant the subsequent pro-
ceedings in the court at Westminster. The cases where the jurisdiction of the courts above is excluded, and
that of the common pleas at Lancaster must be adopted, are chiefly pleas of lands within the county, or actions
against corporations existing in Lancashire. All writs out of the courts at Westminster (except Habeas Corpus
and Mittimus) are directed to the chancellor, and not to the sheriff, in the first instance; and, where execution
of them must be done by the sheriff, the chancellor issues his mandate to that officer, and, on receiving his
return, certifies in his own name to the court above that the writ has been duly executed; and if the chan-
cellor return, that he commanded the sheriff, and has received from him no answer, the court above will rule
the sheriff to return the mandate. There is only one franchise in the county having the execution of writs
by its own officer, viz. the Liberty of Furness, to the bailiff of which the sheriff directs his precepts, and
receives from him the requisite returns.
THE COURT OF COMMON PLEAS FOR THE COUNTY PALATINE OF LANCASTER
is an original Superior Court of Record at Common Law, having jurisdiction over all real actions for lands,
and in all actions against corporations within the county, as well as over all personal actions where the
defendant resides in Tancashire, although the cause of action may have arisen elsewhere ; but this court has
no jurisdiction beyond the limits of the county. The judges of this court are appointed by commission from
the king, under the seal of the duchy of Lancaster, but in the name of the king, pursuant to the statute of 27
Henry VIII. (1535). The judges, according to the present usage, are only two, being the judges appointed
on the northern circuit, whose commission continues in force so long as the same judges continue to be
appointed to that circuit. Its returns are on the first Wednesday in every month. The office of the protho-
notary is at Preston, where the records for the preceding twenty years are kept, and those for previous years
are deposited at Lancaster, where the court sits every assizes before one of the two judges of the courts at
Westminster who have chosen the northern circuit, and who are half-yearly commissioned, the one as the chief
justice, and the other as one of the “justices of the common pleas at Lancaster.” The patent of the judges
for the common pleas at Lancaster also appoints one of the judges “chief justice, and the other, one of the
justices of all manner of pleas within the county palatine,” and under this the causes sent by mittimus from
the courts at Westminster are tried at bar; but as there is no clause of nisi prius in the jury process by
mittimus to Lancaster (it being out of the ordinary circuit of the judges), they cannot be assisted by a sergeant
on the civil side as in other counties. By the same commission are tried at bar all pleas of the crown, whether
removed by certiorari, or otherwise directed so to be tried. This court is a great advantage to the commercial
county of Lancaster, as well because its process for arrests to any amount reaches to all parts of the county,
and may be had without the delay of sending to London, as from the celerity and excellency of its practice.
A great majority of the causes now tried at Lancaster, as well as at Liverpool and at Manchester, are brought
in the common pleas of the county palatine, and in point of importance are equal to those sent down for trial
there from the courts at Westminster. In this court, actions may be brought within about three weeks from
CHAP. VI. Çift history of Lancashire. 65
the time of holding the assizes; and execution may be had after trial, as soon as the assizes terminate, without
waiting till the following term, which, at the summer assizes especially, embraces a considerable period. The
advantage of this promptitude in legal processes in Lancashire has been so strongly felt, that the principle is
now extended to the general law of the country; and still further improved by an act of parliament passed
in the early part of 1831, for the more speedy judgment and execution in actions brought in his Majesty's
courts at Westminster; and the proceedings in the court of common pleas of the county palatine of Lancaster
have been facilitated by making all writs of inquiry or damage returnable on the first Wednesday in every
month (in addition to the first and last days of each assize), in lieu of being returnable, as hitherto, on any of
the return days in Easter and Michaelmas terms respectively. The general official business of the court of
common pleas in Lancashire is transacted by the deputy of the prothonotary. The office of prothonotary is a
patent office, in the gift of the crown, in right of the duchy of Lancaster. Henry Wyndham West, Esq., is
(1867) the Attorney-General; Charles Purton Cooper, Esq., is the Queen's Sergeant ; and Edward James,
Esq., Q.C., and Gordon Whitbread, Esq., are the Queen's Counsel. For the county palatine, Edward James,
Esq., Q.C., is the Attorney-General, and there are usually two Queen's Counsel for the palatinate.
Previous to every assize, commissions of Oyer and Terminer and General Gaol Delivery are issued, under
which the senior judge presides in the crown court, and delivers all the gaols within the county. The
official proceedings in criminal cases within the county are conducted by the clerk of the crown, or his
deputy.’ The office of clerk of the crown is in the gift of the chancellor of the duchy for the time being.
The office is held at Preston. At the end of the assizes, three copies are made of the calendar of the
prisoners; one of which is signed by the senior judge, and delivered to the clerk of the crown, in whose
custody it is kept ; another copy is signed by the clerk of the crown, and kept by the judge; and a third,
signed by the same officer, is left with the high sheriff or the gaoler. Under this authority, and without any
special warrant, all executions take place. The judge writes the word “reprieved” or “respited,” opposite
to the name of each convict sentenced to die, but not left for execution ; and such as have not either of these
words written opposite their names, are hanged. On behalf of those who are reprieved, the judge addresses
a letter, called “the Circuit Letter” to the king, recommending them to mercy on the grounds therein
specified, which letter is transmitted to the office of the secretary of state, and generally, indeed invariably,
produces a commutation of punishment.
The assizes were formerly held half-yearly, and at Lancaster only. But great changes and improvements
have been made in this respect since 1830. After a royal commission in 1829, various reports of committees
of county magistrates, and several numerously-signed petitions and memorials from populous towns in South
Lancashire, it was determined to hold assizes for the criminal and civil business of the two hundreds of West
Derby and Salford, at Liverpool; and accordingly assizes have been held there from the year 1835 in the
Sessions-house, Chapel Street, and from the 8th December 1851 in St. George's Hall. Still the business of the
assizes increased so greatly, and the inconvenience of jurors, suitors, prosecutors, witnesses, and others, having
to travel thirty or forty miles to the assizes, and many of them to remain there for a number of days, at a
great distance from home, led to a growing requirement that the hundred of Salford should have assizes for
its business. Accordingly assizes for that hundred were held for the first time in the splendid new Assize Courts
at Manchester in July 1864; and this county now has three places of assize—at Lancaster, for the hundreds
of Amounderness, Blackburn, Leyland, and Lonsdale ; at Liverpool for the West Derby hundred ; and at
Manchester for the hundred of Salford. Besides the usual periods of spring and autumn, or Lent and
Michaelmas, it has also been deemed necessary to have a winter assize, both at Liverpool and Manchester,
chiefly for the delivery of the gaols of prisoners committed too late for trial at the August assizes, and who
would otherwise be incarcerated before trial till the following March. -
THE COURTS OF INFERIOR JURISDICTION
are either Courts, which, upon recording their judgment, can award that the party condemned shall be fined
or imprisoned, or they are COURTS NOT OF RECORD, and consequently not possessing the power to make such
an award. Of the former class, some are more conversant in matters of criminal, and others of civil nature.
The Criminal Courts of Record are—the General Sessions, held annually and quarterly, before the justices of
the peace for the county. The Annual Sessions are held in July, at Preston, and afterwards, by various
adjournments, until the numerous county affairs, placed, by various statutes, under the peculiar cognisance of
this court, are transacted. These are annually accumulating ; and the matters of county finance have now
become so much the objects of magisterial care and public interest, that its sittings bear no very distant
resemblance to those of Parliament.
THE GENERAL QUARTER-SESSIONS,
called the “County Sessions” to distinguish them from those of boroughs, are held, according to statute, at
Lancaster, the first week after the 11th of October; the first week after the 20th of December; the first
* Appendix to Evans on the Court of Common Pleas of the County Palatine of Lancaster.
K
66 (The #igturn of £ancašijire. CHAP, WI.
week after the 31st of March ; and the first week after the 24th of June, in each year; and thence, by
adjournment, at Preston, Kirkdale (Liverpool), and Salford. At these three places intermediate sessions are
also held midway between the winter sessions. The multifarious matters under the cognisance of this court
are too well known to require enumeration. A very considerable number of barristers attend the last
adjournments; and many judicious arrangements have been made, which evince the anxious desire of the
magistrates to reduce, as much as possible, the time consumed, and the enormous sums annually ex-
pended, in the prosecution of offenders. The bench have the power, and frequently exercise it, to effect a
further saving of both, by dividing the sessions, and trying indictments and appeals in different courts at the
same time.
Similar sessions are held in the boroughs of Manchester, Bolton, Wigan, and Liverpool, before the local
magistrates, agreeably to the respective charters, or to immemorial prescription, which presupposes such a
charter anciently granted, and now lost or decayed.
Another court of record of criminal judicature is the coroner's court, rapidly assembled on the discovery
of any dead body, and composed of the officer and a jury selected by the constables of the four townships
next adjoining to that spot on which the corpse was first found. The name of the officer is supposed to be
derived from the circumstance of his examination of the witnesses, and pronouncing of sentence, being in a
ring or circle of people assembled round the deceased, or in corona populi. Others derive the name coroner
from coronator, because he holds placita coronae, or pleas of the crown, and the chief justice of the Queen's
Bench is the chief coroner of England. He is elected by the freeholders, upon a writ requiring the sheriff
to hold a county court for the election, and returned into chancery. In this county there are six coroners,
each of whom has full power to act through Lancashire; but the exercise of such power is limited, by private
agreement and for mutual convenience, to the hundred or neighbourhood of their respective residence. The
coroner is bound by law to discharge his office in person, to come when sent for, and to view the body in the
presence of the jury; and if the corpse cannot be found, no inquest can be held. He must also inquire of
every death in prison, whether naturally or by misfortune. There are other duties attached to the office,
such as the execution of process where the sheriff is party, or in contempt ; the taking and entering of
appeals of murder, rape, and robbery, etc.; the judgment on the writs of Outlawry; the inquests of wreck and
treasure-trove ; and others of less frequent occurrence, and less public concernment, than its ordinary painful
and unpleasant task: the office is of high antiquity, and great public utility, when executed according to the
spirit and for the end of its original institution. The principal officers of the corporate boroughs are usually
coroners within the precincts of their jurisdiction. The coroner is a conservator of the peace, at common
law, virtute officii. The remaining court of record, for the punishment of offences, is the Leet. Formerly the
sheriff perambulated the county, and held his criminal court in every hundred. This was called the Torn, or
Tourn; but when the delay, inconvenience, and expense of that officer “taking a turn” through so extensive
a district became manifest, this court was made stationary in every hundred, and was held, as at present,
before the steward of the hundred.
A singular instance occurs, as early as the time of Edward II., of the exactions to which the inhabitants
of Lancashire were subjected by the itinerant visits of some of the Ostentatious sheriffs in their periodical
tourns through the county; but to these grievances they did not tamely submit, as appears from an ancient
indictment presented by the grand jury, of which the following is a translation —
& 4 ASTE The Grand Jury of the Wapentake of West Derby present that ‘ Willielmus le Gentil,’ at the time when
LANCASTER. ºil. . sheriff, and when he held his Towrm in the said Wapentake, ought to have remained no longer in
the Wapentake than three nights with three or four horses, whereas he remained there at least nine days with eight horses, to the
oppression of the people ; and that he quartered himself one night at the house of ‘Dns de Turbat,’ and another night at the house
of one ‘Robertus de Bold,’ another at the house of “Robertus de Gremlay,’ and elsewhere, according to his will, at the cost of the
men of the Wapentake.”
For this offence, and for another of a more extraordinary kind, which will be exhibited in the parlia-
mentary history of the county, the sheriff was placed in duress; but the record adds, that “the said
‘Willielmus Geniil’ is enlarged upon the manucaption of four manucaptors.”
At the period when the comites or earls divested themselves of the charge of the counties, that duty
devolved upon the sheriffs, as the name shire-reeve, or bailiff of the shire, imports; and, in like manner, when
the hundredors ceased to govern the divisions styled hundreds, their office was supplied by the steward—i.e.
Stede-ward, or governor of the place. This officer is one of those conservators of the peace who still remain
such by virtue of his office. The six hundreds in Lancashire—viz. Lonsdale, Amounderness, Blackburn,
Leyland, West Derby, and Salford—were anciently styled shires. Thus Leland, temp. Henry VIII. speaks
of Manchester standing in Salfordshire; and, in common with all the hundreds north of the Trent, they bear
the synonymous name of wapentakes, from the ancient custom of the heads of families assembling armed,
upon the summons of the hundredor, and touching his weapon, to testify their fealty. In many parts of this
county, lands and manors are held by Suit to the hundred leet, of which service this was probably the sign
1 Rot. plac. coram R. 17 Edw. II. m. 72 (1323-4).
CHAP. VI. (ſiſt #istory of £ancashire. 67
and symbol, and such are called hundred lands. The leet must be held at least twice in every year, and
within a month of Easter and Michaelmas respectively. It is held before the steward of the hundred, or his
deputy, and a jury impanelled by him. The amercements are limited only by the assessment of at least two
men, according to the measure of the fault, agreeably to a provision of Magna Charta. Anterior to the
statutes which have given to the sessions concurrent jurisdiction, its duties embraced every offence, from
eaves-dropping and vagrancy, to high treason; but, although contrary to several very learned dicta, every
statute affecting it has preserved, and none has diminished, its powers; which are seldom called into exercise,
except to abate nuisances, punish deficient measures, and appoint the high and petty constables, and other
municipal officers. Its proceedings have two singular characteristics—the entire absence of fees and lawyers.
The increase of population and the influence of feudal lords gave rise to manorial leets (which were granted to
obviate the necessity of the tenants of a particular manor being obliged to attend the torn, or general leet of
the hundred), held before the stewards of the several lords of manors, or their deputies; and, by custom, the
leets of several manors may be held at once in some certain place within one of the manors.
THE INFERIOR COURTS OF RECORD OF CIVIL JUDICATURE,
are—1st, The Courts of Boroughs, usually held before the principal corporate officer, and the recorder or steward,
and having jurisdiction, in personal actions, to an unlimited amount. Such is the Court of Passage at Liver-
pool, the Court of Record at Manchester, the Borough Court of Preston, and others, as numerous and as
various as the respective charters or prescriptions. 2d, The Piedpoudre Court is a court of Record, having
unlimited jurisdiction over all contracts arising within a fair, before the lord or owner, or his steward or clerk
of the fair. It was the lowest and most speedy court in the realm, except one now extinct, called the Court
of Trail-baton, where the judge was bound to decide whilst the bailiff drew his staff or trailed his baton round
the room. 3d, The Court of Requests in Manchester (as elsewhere) has been superseded by the County
Courts.
THE INFERIOR COURTS, NOT OF RECORD,
are all calculated for the redress of civil, and not of criminal, injuries. It has been seen that the sheriff had
a court-leet called the torn, which was the criminal court of the county; he had also his court-baron or civil
court, which formerly travelled round the county in the same manner as the torn. The same complaint of
expense, delay, and inconvenience, attended this rotary process; and long before the torn was localised in the
hundreds, the County Court, or Sheriff's Court, became stationary in the county town, and its jurisdiction was
limited to those suits in which the parties dwelt in several hundreds. In both hundred and county courts,
matters to any amount were originally determined, until the statute of Gloucester directed that no suits
should be commenced without the king's writ, unless the cause of action did not exceed 40s. The Lancashire
County Court, so far as relates to the recovery of small demands, probably possesses greater practice and
efficiency than any other similar court; owing to an act of parliament" (peculiar to the county palatine of
Lancaster), prohibiting the removal of causes without bail, where the debt or damage is under £10, and to
the excellent rules of practice since introduced, in conjunction with the circumstance that process may be
issued at Preston, from the chancery of the duchy, at a much smaller expense and more speedily than it can
be in ordinary cases, where it must be had from the High Court of Chancery. Very much delay (incident
to proceedings in county courts in general) is likewise obviated in this court, by entries being permitted to
be made at the sheriff's office in the intervals between the regular monthly court-days, as if they had been
entered at the previous court-day. According to immemorial usage, the court has been held every Tuesday
month at Preston, but latterly, in addition to this, it has regularly adjourned its monthly sittings from
thence to Manchester, on the Thursday following, in order to obviate the expense and loss of time incurred,
through so many witnesses having to travel from that populous district as far as to Preston. Of late years
too the sheriff has retained a barrister, to preside in the Court, in which the number of actions commenced
may be stated at from 4000 to 5000 annually: from 1000 to 2000 being for sums under 40s, but the greater
proportion being for sums above that amount.
THE HUNDRED COURTS
have concurrent jurisdiction with the County Court in certain personal actions under 40s, in value, and are
held from three weeks to three weeks, before the steward of the hundred, or his deputy, and a jury, within
the respective jurisdictions. No suit can be removed by the defendant, before judgment, without bail, to the
satisfaction of the court ; nor by the losing party, after judgment, without similar security in double the
amount of the judgment.
There is in this county one Honor or Superior Manor, having numerous dependent manors under it.
1 35 Geo. III. (1794-5).
68 (The #istory of 3Lancašijire. CHAP. VI.
It is the Honor of Cliffheroe, the jurisdiction of which is very extensive. It has courts in the nature of courts-
leet, at which the lords of the inferior manors owe suit ; and others in the nature of copyhold courts, for the
admittance of tenants by copy of court-roll under the various forfeited manors within the honor.
There are also numerous other Manors in various parts of the county; some of which have copyhold
courts, and others only courts-baron for the redress of the tenants' grievances; some have courts-leet, and some
few courts for the recovery of debts and damages under 40s, held according to their various local customs.
It has been complained of as a defect of the Superior courts, that their sittings and offices are at too
great a distance from the centre of business and the mass of the population. The evil of the inferior
judicatures of a civil nature is, that, owing to the restrictions upon the amount of the sums sought to be
recovered, and the diminished value of money, the time of respectable juries and professional men is
wasted upon trifling suits, when it might be advantageously applied to ease the Superior courts of those
matters which are too small to deserve their cognisance, and yet too great to pass remediless, Save at the risk
or ruin of individuals. Several unsuccessful attempts have been made to remedy both these grievances.
The answer to such has been, that it is dangerous to render more easy, cheap, and speedy, the administration
of justice, lest the people should contract a love of litigation, which would injure them more than the delay
or denial of redress. -
It should be stated that although the Hundred or Wapentake Courts and the Old Borough Courts are
not abolished, they do not dispose of much business, with the exception of such courts as the Court of Record
for Salford hundred, and the Manchester City Court of Record. The smaller courts are virtually superseded
by the County Courts, established under the County Courts Act, and which are held all over the kingdom.
RECORDS OF THE COUNTY PALATINE.
The principal public records connected with the jurisprudence of the county palatine of Lancaster may
be classed under three heads:—1st, Those in the department of the Deputy-clerk of the Crown at Lancaster.
2d, Those in the department of the Prothonotary of Her Majesty's Court of Common Pleas for the county
of Lancaster; and 3d, Those in the department of the Register of the Court of Chancery of Lancashire.
Soon after the appointment by his Majesty of the Commissioners of Public Records, issued in virtue of a
recommendation of the two Houses of Parliament, in the year 1800, the commissioners instituted inquiries
into the nature of these records and the places of their deposit ; and from the answers returned to those
inquiries it appears—
FIRST.—That the public records, rolls, instruments, and manuscript books and papers in the custody of the clerk of the crown for
the county palatine of Lancaster, consist of instruments and other criminal proceedings in the crown office for the county palatine ;
the records of such instruments and proceedings, and different books of entries, though not very numerous, are supposed to be all
that have been preserved. These records (except the proceedings at two or three preceding assizes, which are kept in the office of
the deputy-clerk of the crown in Preston), are deposited in the new office or room that has been fitted up in Lancaster Castle for the
reception of these and other records of the county; Lancaster Castle being supposed to be the property of the crown, in right of the
duchy of Lancaster. For eighty or ninety years past, the indictments, etc., are so far arranged, that any proceeding inquired for may
be easily referred to ; antecedent to that period, such as have been preserved are promiscuously placed together in no regular order,
but are in tolerable preservation. All the proceedings at each assizes within the period first mentioned are entered or docketed in
books, by referring to which, the proceedings in each prosecution may be known ; but there are no other indexes or catalogues ex-
cept that, upon some of the older rolls, the contents are endorsed. All searches are made by or in the presence of the deputy-clerk
of the crown, or his confidential clerks, who are employed in the custody and arrangements of the records, and give attendance as
occasion may require, without any remuneration from the public. Office copies of records are charged after the rate of eightpence
for each sheet, consisting of seventy-two words, and the usual fee upon a search is 6s. 8d., and the deputy-clerk of the crown charges
for attending at Lancaster during the assizes with a record, a guinea. The searches in this office are very rare, and, of course, the
fees upon them very inconsiderable.
SECOND.—The public records, rolls, instruments, and manuscript books and papers in the custody of the deputy prothonotary of
the court of common pleas, in and for the county palatine of Lancaster, consist of fines and recoveries, records, writs, minutes,
papers, and proceedings in real, personal, and mixed actions, instituted in this court, along with some few enrolments of deeds; and
they are supposed to be the whole of the records or papers relating to this court since its creation. These records and other docu-
ments, for a period of upwards of fifty years, are lodged at the office of the deputy prothonotary, which (with the other principal
law officers of this county palatine), is held at Preston, on account of its central situation. All the early records and documents are
now lodged in an ancient tower or chamber within the castle of Lancaster, which has been very commodiously fitted up for their
reception at the expense of the county. The records and other documents are methodically arranged in separate compartments,
according to their dates, and are in general in very good preservation. There are docket rolls or indexes to all the records, con-
taining the names of the parties to the fines, recoveries, and suits recorded at each assizes. As the records of this court are kept at
a distance of twenty-two miles from the office, a person is appointed at Lancaster by the deputy prothonotary, vulgarly called custos
rotulorum, who is entrusted with the care of the records, etc., whose duty it is to attend every search, and to take care that every
record be duly and safely restored to its proper place, for which a fee is due.”
THIRD.—The public records, etc., in the custody of the registrar of the court of chancery of the county palatine of Lancaster, con-
sist of bills, answers, and other pleadings, depositions, Order-books, decrees, decree-books, and other books for entries in causes, and
other matters instituted in that court; and are supposed to be the whole of the records or papers that have been preserved since its
creation. These documents, anterior to the year 1740, were kept in a room or chamber in the castle of Lancaster; such as are sub-
sequent to that period are at the office of the deputy-registrar in Preston, which is the private property of the deputy-registrar. The
old records are deposited in an office fitted up in the early part of the present century in Lancaster Castle for their reception, at the
* Return made by William Cross, Esq., deputy prothonotary to the commissioners of Public Records.
CHAP. VI; gºt #istory of Lancashire. 69
expense of the county. The bills, answers, and depositions, etc., are upon different files, with the respective years in which they are
filed marked upon labels affixed to them ; but neither these, nor the other books or proceedings, appear ever to have been well
arranged; many of them are much defaced, and almost, if not wholly unintelligible. The bills, answers, depositions, etc., have
usually been indexed (or entered in a pye-book) when brought to the registrar's office to be filed : there are no indexes of the other
proceedings, and many of the indexes first mentioned have been lost, and the remainder are not accurate. Various circumstances
have caused these records or papers to be at different times removed. All searches in this office are made by, or in the presence of,
the deputy-registrar or his confidential clerks, who are employed in the custody and arrangement of the records, and give attendance
as occasion requires, without any salaries or emoluments paid by the public. There are charges for copying proceedings, etc., and
fees for search, also for a journey of the deputy-registrar from Preston to Lancaster, and his expenses. Owing to the irregular state
of the records, few searches are made.
The places of deposit of the records of the county palatine may be summarily stated as follows:—
Becords and other Instruments. Date. Where kept.
County Palatine of Lancaster.
Chancery —
1740 to 1800. Dates want- tº º
Bills, Pleadings, Depositions, Orders, and Decrees ing before 1740; 1135 to * &m." County Palatine
1558 tº º ucny UIIlce.
Charters and Grants of various kinds tº & tº e 1136 to 1558
Common Pleas:— *
Fines and Recoveries, Writs, Minutes, Proceedings in | Geo. III
Actions, and Inrolment of Deeds & º e § ºl. -- *... tº
The Records before his present Majesty's Reign . g . Dates wanting
Pleas of the Crown :-
hº and other Criminal proceedings, and Books of About 50 years before 1800
Collectanea relating to the History and Antiquities thereof,
made by the three Holmes º * $ • © e . . . . . .
Collection of Names of the King's Castles, Mansions, Parks,
Forests, Chases, etc. within the survey of the Duchy of
Prothonotary's Office at Preston.
Castle, Lancaster
British Museum.
* * * * * * University Library, Camb.
Lancaster §
Iter Forestaº e * * * g º & & . 8 Edward III. . . Lincoln's Inn Library.
Nona Roll . e * g sº g g * > & º 15 Edward III. e . King's Rememb. Office.
Ecclesiastical Survey (a copy) tº * º § º g 26 Henry VIII. & . | First-Fruits Office.
Survey of Estates therein not granted in Fee-farm g g 1629 g & g . University Library, Camb.
Catalogue of Charters throughout England and Wales . tº 1 p * * * * Ashmolean Museum.
Fee-farm, Rolls of g w º & e Temp. Interregni . . Augmentation Office.
The archives of the ecclesiastical courts, so far as they concern the county of Tancaster, are to be found
at Lichfield, from the earliest period of their preservation up to the year 1590, in the custody of the registrar
of the diocese of Lichfield and Coventry; and since that period, in the custody of the deputy-registrar of the
diocese of Chester; the deputy-registrar of the consistory court of the archdeaconry of Richmond; and the
deputy-registrar of the five several deaneries of Amounderness, Copeland, Lonsdale, Kendal, and Furness.
These depositories may be classed under four heads:— -
FIRST.-There are in the custody of the registrar of the diocese of Lichfield and Coventry, in right of the bishop's see, original
manuscripts, or episcopal registers, or acts, of the bishops of Lichfield and Coventry, from the year 1298, except that there are some
chasms in several of the bishops' times. These registers contain acts on institutions of rectors and vicars, and some entries of
appropriations of rectories and endowments of vicarages in the diocese. There are also books of the judicial proceedings in causes
in the court, from about the year 1450. Original wills, and grants of letters of administration, from 1526 to 1590, when the
ecclesiastical archives belonging to the diocese of Chester ceased to be kept at Lichfield. -
SECOND.—There are deposited in the public episcopal registry at Chester, in which diocese the [south-west part of the] county of
Lancashire is situated, original wills or copies thereof proved there, from the year 1590 to the present time, and bonds given by
persons administering to the effects of persons dying intestate. Sundry pleadings and proceedings exhibited in causes in the con-
sistory court of Chester, and books of the acts in the same causes. , Nine folio volumes, commencing in the year 1525, containing
entries of sentences of consecrations of churches, chapels, and burial-grounds in the diocese, faculties for rebuilding and improving
churches, chapels, and parsonage-houses, confirmation of Seats, and other ecclesiastical commissions and faculties. Proceedings on
the installations of bishops, patents of the officers of the vicar-general and official principal commissaries; rural deans, registrars,
proctors, and apparitors. Three books, commencing in 1500, containing entries of presentations or institutions to ecclesiastical
benefices within the diocese. Four books, commencing in 1752, containing entries of institutions, licenses to curacies, ordinations,
and other episcopal acts. Several books of subscriptions to the liturgy, and the articles of the church of England, by persons
ordained, and clergymen admitted to benefices or cures. A volume usually called Bridgman's Ledger, having been chiefly collected
by Dr. John Bridgman, who was appointed bishop of Chester in 1619, containing copies of various appropriations, endowments,
compositions, grants, agreements, leases, charters, orders by the crown, rentals of synodals, procurations, pensions, tenths, and
subsidies; patents and statutes of grammar-schools. A volume, usually called Gastrell’s Notitia, being compiled by Dr. Francis
Gastrell, elected lord bishop of Chester in 1714, containing an account of the then population of each parish, number of families,
Catholics, Dissenters, families of note, patrons, wardens, Schools, endowments, charities, and several other particulars of each parish
and chapelry in the diocese; entries of licenses of marriage; probates of wills, and letters of administration; names of the clergy;
church and chapel wardens; account of exhibits at episcopal visitations, and correction books; original presentation to benefices,
and nominations to curacies and schools, and terriers and parish and chapel registers." There are two other registries in the arch-
deaconry of Richmond, at Lancaster and Richmond. All the foregoing records are deposited in the public episcopal registry in
Chester, which is a stone building, slated, and commodiously fitted up for the safe and convenient preservation of the records and
* Bishop Gastrell's Notitia Cestriensis has been edited by the Rev. Canon Raines, and printed for the Chetham Society, in 4 vols.
viii. xix. xxi. and xxii. of the Society's series,—H.
70 (Tije Đíðförg of 3Lancašijire.
CHAP, WI.
papers deposited therein. The records and papers are in general in good preservation, except the most ancient part ; from time or
inevitable accident, they are in many parts imperfect before the year 1650, and for ten years following quite deficient. From that
period, the wills, and most of the registries and entries, are regular and correct. There are complete indexes to the wills, registries,
and entries of institutions, from their commencement, except in the parts before mentioned to be deficient. There are several
manuscript volumes in the possession of the bishop of the diocese, containing a particular account of the extent and population of
the diocese, number of Catholics and Dissenters, state of parsonage-houses, residence of clergy, schools, charities, and several other
particulars relative to the diocese, being answers to queries addressed by different bishops to the clergy of the diocese. The number
of parishes in the diocese of Chester was, in the year 1800, two hundred and sixty-two.
THIRD.—The records, instruments, and papers, in the custody of the deputy registrar of the consistory court of the archdeaconry
of Richmond, in the diocese of Chester, consist entirely of original wills; bonds taken upon the issuing of letters of administration,
tuition, and curation; affidavits and bonds relative to marriage-licenses; proceedings in ecclesiastical suits; enrolments of faculties
for pews and galleries in churches and chapels; terriers and duplicates of parish registers; and such other matters as relate to the office
and jurisdiction of the commissary of the said archdeaconry of Richmond, but do not comprehend any record or instrument of any
other nature or description. From the most ancient of the said records, to the year 1750, they comprise the wills, administration
and tuition bonds, which have arisen from every part of the said archdeaconry of Richmond; but since that year a division took
place, and the wills and other papers and records not relating to such business as is usually called contentious, arising within the
five deaneries of Amounderness, Kendal, Copeland, Lonsdale, and Furness, part of the said archdeaconry, are deposited in the parish
church of Lancaster, under the custody of another officer there. From the most remote period, the duplicates of parish registers,
terriers, and all other records, proceedings, and papers (except those of a contentious nature, and the wills, etc., of the period first
before mentioned) of the five deaneries, are also deposited at Lancaster; whilst all other wills, papers, and records, arising within
this archdeaconry have continued to be deposited, and remain in the registry of the consistory court at Richmond. . The registry at
Richmond is part of the ancient chapel, called Trinity Chapel, in the centre of the market-place of the borough of Richmond,
Sufficiently large and commodious, and in most respects secure ; but having several dwelling-houses and shops, wherein fires are
directly underneath, as well as adjoining to it, it is in some measure exposed to danger. ... The state of preservation of the records,
etc., at Richmond, is in general very good, though some few of the ancient wills have suffered by the access of moisture in certain
places, particularly in the corners of the roof, which are now perfectly repaired, and all increase pf decay is prevented as much as
possible. The wills are arranged alphabetically in bundles of ten years each ; the terriers and parish registers in parcels, according
to the different parishes; and all the rest of the records, with sufficient regularity to answer the purposes of those who require
Searches to be made. There is no regular catologue, schedule, or repertory of the records, nor any index, except of the terriers and
faculties, and of such of the wills and administrations as have arisen within the present century, within the three deaneries of Rich-
mond, Catterick, and Boroughbridge, commonly called the three Yorkshire deaneries. -
FOURTH.—The original wills within the five deaneries of Amounderness, Copeland, Lonsdale, Kendal, and Furness, within the
archdeaconry of Richmond, preserved and kept at Lancaster, proved and approved before the worshipful commissary (for the time
being) of the said archdeaconry or his surrogates, or before the vicar-general or his surrogates respectively, since the first of Novem-
ber 1748, are registered, deposited, and kept in a convenient room, called the registry of the east end, of and within the parish
church of Lancaster, where are also deposited all bonds taken on granting letters of administration, curation, tuition, and marriage-
licenses within these five deaneries. And in the same place are also deposited and kept copies of the parochial registers delivered in
by the church and chapel wardens within the five deaneries at each visitation. The register or place of deposit is deemed very
Secure, and well accommodated for the keeping of the several instruments. The several wills and instruments are well preserved,
and the wills and administration, curation, and tuition bonds belonging to each of the Said deaneries, are kept separate and apart
from each other ; and those of each deanery arranged annually, and also decennially, in alphabetical order. The bonds on granting
marriage-licenses are arranged in numerical order. There are distinct alphabetical books for each of the deaneries, called “Act
Books,” in each of which are entered schedules containing a short entry of the probate of each will, and of every administration,
curation, and tuition, granted within each of the deaneries respectively; to each of which act books is prefixed or annexed an alpha-
betical index of contents.
The following exhibits a condensed view of the places of deposit of the records and other instruments connected with the
ecclesiastical affairs of the county of Lancaster —
ECCLESIASTICAL.
IRecords and Other Instruments. Date. Where kept.
Dioceses of Chester and of Manchester—
Installations of Bishops, Patents of Officers, etc. Q g g & * || 4 - - - - - ~
Terriers and Parish and Chapel Registers © & e º • I tº - - - - -
Presentation to Benefices, Nominations to Curacies and Schools e tº i < * * * * *
Appropriations, Endowments, Compositions, Grants, Agreements, Leases,
Orders, etc. & & I w - - - - - s Bishop's Registry of
Licenses of Marriage, Probates of Wills, and Letters of Administration
Proceedings in causes, and Books of Acts of the Consistory Court
Presentations and Institutions to Ecclesiastical Benefices . © o
| Chester or of Manchester,
as the case Imay be.
Commencing 1500
Consecrations of Churches, Chapels, etc., and Faculties for rebuilding
Churches e * e º ſº º e g º . 1525 ) , *
Original Wills, or Copies of 1 . º i;90 to tiºn ./
Population of Parishes, Account of . 1714 II]] (2.
.*
* As to the wills of persons resident, or having property, within registry at Durham), edited by Dr. Raine. Vol. xxxviii., a con-
the county palatine of Lancashire, much interesting information
has been printed of late years. Especially deserving of notice are
three vols. entitled “Lancashire and Cheshire Wills and Inventories,”
edited by the Rev. G. J. Piecope, vols. xxxiii. li. and liv. of the
Chetham Society's series ; embracing wills of persons of various
ranks and grades within the period A.D. 1480-1639. Of wills re-
lating to Lancashire, but lodged in registries in Durham and York-
shire, much information will be found in the following works,
published by the Surtees Society —Vol. ii., “Wills and Inventories
illustrative of the history, manners, etc., of the Northern Counties
of England, from the 11th century downwards” (chiefly from the
tinuation of vol. ii., “Wills from the registry at Durham,” edited
by the Rev. W. Greenwell. [A third volume will bring these wills
down to the Restoration.] Vol. iv. “Testamenta Eboracensia :
Wills illustrative, etc., of the province of York, from A.D. 1300
downwards.” Vol. i. edited by Dr. Raine; vol. xxx. (vol. ii.),
1429-1462, edited by the Rev. J. Raine; vol. xlv. (vol. iii.),
“Wills from the registry at York” (1395-1491). At the end of
this volume are “Dispensations for Marriage, Marriage Licenses,”
etc., from the registers of York, Durham, and Richmond, 1374-
1531,–H.
CHAP, WI.
71
(Tije Đigturn ºf 3Lancašijire.
ECCLESIASTICAL-60ntinued.
Becords and other Instruments.
Date,
Where kept.
Richmond Archdeaconry, Consistory Court—
Wills, Original & & © e e -
Bonds on granting Letters of Administration, etc.
Marriage-Licenses and Affidavits thereon .
Parochial Registers, copies of . tº e
Act Books, containing Entries of Probates
Proceedings in Suits . . . . . g º
Inrolment of Faculties for Pews, etc.
Terriers . e * º º
Duplicates of Parish Registers .
Wills, Original e “ o tº e e
Administration, Curation, and Tuition Bonds .
Act Books, containing Entries of Probates
The earliest date—
Chester & º -
Lichfield and Coventry Diocese—
Ecclesiastical Survey e -
Terriers of Rectories and Vicarages . • -
Registers containing Institutions of Rectors and Wi
Rectories, and Endowments of Vicarages
Judicial Proceedings in Causes
Wills and Grants 1s
Administration, Letters of
Licenses . - e -
Registers of Parishes
cars, Appropriation of
• * * * * *
* * * * * *
* * * * * *
tº s a s e -
1748 to the present
1500.
time.
26 Hen. WIII.
* - e º e -
!º to the present
time,
1450
1526
1660
with chasms.
to present time.
\
h
j
Consistory Registry,
JRichmond.
Commissary Registry,
Lancaster.
Registry, Chester.
First Fruits Office.
Bishop's Registry,
Lichfield.
72 Çije Đigturn ºf 3Lancašijire. CHAP. VII.
CHAPTER WII.
The Earldom of Lancaster possessed by King John—Privileges to the Honor of Lancaster in Magna Charta–Forest-
Laws, and Assize of the Forest at Lancaster—Grant of Land between Mersey and Ribble—Large Drains on
Lancashire for Men and Money for the Wars—Wars of the Barons—Edward II, the Prisoner of Thomas Earl of
Lancaster—Analysis of Landed Possessions in the County from Testa de Nevill—A.D. 1164-1327.
ºESUMING the chronological Order of our history from the period at which it had arrived when
(,§ º we commenced the history of the dukes and duchy of Lancaster, it is proper to correct an
ſº #j §: error into which the learned Selden has fallen, when he says, “That Lancashire, till Henry
º º º III, created his youngest son Edmund Crookback earl of it (A.D. 1266), I think was no
º!\º: § county; for in one of our old year books a learned judge' affirms that in this Henry's time
§§º Nº was the first sheriff's turn held there.”
That sheriffs were elected for this county upwards of a century before Henry III. ascended the throne of
these realms, is already abundantly clear. In the Domesday Survey of the date of 1086, the county of Lan-
caster, as we have already seen, is Surveyed as portions of the adjoining counties of York and Chester, but it
is not named in that Survey ; and after a diligent examination of the public records, the first mention we find
of the county is in the Pipe Roll in the Exchequer Office, seventy-eight years after that survey was completed.
The Pipe Rolls commence with 5 Stephen (A.D. 1140), and contain returns from a great number of the sheriffs
of other counties, but the name of Lancashire does not occur till the 11th Henry II. (1165), after which the
returns for Lancashire seem to be regular under every year, at least for some time. It is thus manifest that
Selden is in error in supposing that Lancashire was “no county” till the time of Henry III., and that it had
no sheriff till 1266, when Edmund Crouchback was created earl of Lancaster. The records in the office of
the duchy of Lancaster are stated by Mr. Harper to be of as early a date as the first of Stephen, but those
do not of course apply to the duchy, which was not created till more than one hundred years afterwards; nor
have we found any traces of records so early in that depository, relating to the county of Lancaster, as even
the time of the second Henry. In the Chapter House at Westminster there is, amongst its immense circular
documental storeys, a bag of Lancashire fines, marked “Lancastria,” in which several ancient deeds are depo-
sited, of the date of 7 Richard I. (1195-6), relating to ecclesiastical affairs.
In the reign of John, the men of Lancashire complained that their privileges were infringed by Roger
Poer, who had deprived them of more than a hundred acres of wood and forest land, which they had been
accustomed to enjoy as common of pasture.” The complaint of the men of Lancashire was made with peculiar
propriety to King John, who, though he was surnamed Sansterre, possessed the earldom and honor of Lan-
caster, which were conferred upon him as an inheritance, while he was earl of Morton or Mortaigne, by his
brother Richard I. in the excess of his bounty. The death of Richard soon after opened the way to the
throne for John, who did not hesitate to assume the possession by imbruing his hands in the blood of his
nephew Arthur. During the reign of Richard, the spirit of crusading had been at its height; not only the
flower of the most distinguished families in Lancashire, but in every part of Christendom, embarked in these
holy wars with the utmost enthusiasm; and though a few splinters from the wood of the real cross were pur-
chased by the sacrifice of more than 300,000 men, such was the excitation of the times, that a knight-templar
seldom failed to rank amongst the first of public benefactors. To these wars future ages are indebted for the
introduction of coats of arms, by which the incased knights were distinguished on the plains of Palestine, and
since which time illustrious families have used them to adorn their pedigrees.
When the great bulwark of British freedom, Magna Charta, was wrested from King John on the field of
Runnymede, by the intrepid barons, special privileges were granted to the honor of Lancaster by name; and
it was provided in the articles appendant to that charter, that “if any one should hold of any escheat as of the
honor of Walingeford, Notingeham, Bologne, or Lankastr", or of other escheats which are in the king's hands,
and are baronies, and he die, his heir shall not give any other relief, or perform any other service, to the king,
than he should perform to the baron ; and that the king hold it in the same manner as the baron.” The
Charter of Forests was scarcely less appreciated in Lancashire than Magna Charta. The number and extent
of the forests in this county made the severity of the laws by which they were protected oppressive in the
extreme (though the rigour of the laws had already been relaxed in their favour), and the immunities
1 Thorp, 17 Edward III. (1343) fol. 566. * Abbrev. Placit. Rot. i. p. 24.





CEIAP. VII. The #istory of ilancashire. 73
conferred on the people by these memorable charters would have immortalised the memory of the king, had
they flowed spontaneously from the royal bounty, instead of having been dictated by an imperious necessity,
over which he had no control.
The Forest-Laws are of great antiquity in this country; they are of Saxon origin; and, like the laws of
Draco, they are written in blood.
A charter of forests was granted by Canute, in the year 1016, called “The Charter and Constitution of Forests,” introduced by
this royal declaration —“These are the Constitutions of the Forest, which I, Canute, king, with the advice of my nobles, do make
and stablish, that both peace and justice may be done to all the churches of our kingdom of England, and that every offender may
suffer according to his quality, and the manner of his offence.” By this charter, four of the best freemen (Pagemed, Verderors) were
appointed in every province of the kingdom, to distribute justice, called “The Chief men of the Forest.” There were placed under each
of these four men of middle sort (Lespegend, Regardors), to take upon themselves the care and charge by day, “as well of the vert as of
the venison.” Under each of these, two of the meaner sort of men (Tinemen, Foresters) were appointed to take care of the vert and the
venison by night. These officers were supported at the cost of the state, the first class receiving a stipend of two hundred shillings
a-year, the second of sixty, and the third of fifteen each, with certain equipments and immunities. “The Chief men of the Forest”
were clothed with royal powers, in the administration of the laws of the forest. If any man offered violence to one of these chief men,
if a freeman, he was to lose his freedom and all that he had ; and if a villein, his right hand was to be cut off, for the first offence;
for the second he suffered death, whether a freeman or a slave. Offences in the forest were punished according to the manner and
quality of the offender : any freeman, either casually or wilfully chasing or hunting a beast of the forest, so that by swiftness of the
course the beast pant for breath, was to forfeit ten shillings to the king ; if not a freeman, twenty ; if a bondman, to lose his skin
If the beast chased be a royal beast (a staggon), and he shall pant and be out of breath, the freeman to lose his liberty for a year,
the bondman for two years, and the villein to be outlawed. A freeman or a bondman killing any beast of the forest, to pay double
its value for the first offence, the same for the second, and for the third to forfeit all that he possesses. Bishops, abbots, and barons,
not to be challenged for hunting in the forests, except they kill royal beasts, and then to make restitution to the king. Every
freeman to be allowed to take his own vert, or venison, in the purlieus of the forest, or when hunting in his own ground, but he
must refrain from the king's venery. Freemen only to keep the dogs called greyhounds, and the knees of those dogs to be cut before
the chief men, unless they be removed, and kept ten miles from the bounds of the royal forest. Welteres, or Langerans, small
dogs, as well as Ramhundt, might be kept without cutting their knees. If a dog became mad, and bit a beast of the forest, the
owner was required to make a recompense according to the price of a freeman—that is, twelve times two hundred shillings; but if a
royal beast was bitten by a mad dog, then the owner was to answer as for the greatest offence in the forest—namely, with his own
life Such substantially were the forest-laws of Canute the Dane.
William the Norman, another royal Nimrod, did not relax the severity of these laws; but, by afforesting
large tracts of land, very much extended the field of their operation. Though the Conqueror displayed a
large share of his sanguinary and rapacious character in the north, there is no reason to suppose that he deprived
any man of his possessions to enlarge the forests of Lancashire. It is said of him, however, by Mapes, per-
haps with some monkish exaggeration, that in afforesting the New Forest, in Hampshire, for the free enjoy-
ment of the chase, “he took away much land from God and man, and converted it to the use of wild beasts,
and the sport of his dogs, for which he demolished thirty-six churches, and exterminated the inhabitants.”
The retribution which followed was speedy and signal; three of the immediate descendants of the great
spoliator lost their lives while engaged in the chase in this forest, amongst whom was William Rufus, who fell
by the arrow of his bow-bearer, Sir Walter Tyrrell.
Richard I. was much addicted to the pleasures of the chase, and, as one of the highest favours he could
bestow upon his brother John, earl of Morton, he gave him, as we here learn, the honor of Lancaster, and
the royal prerogatives of forest in this county. John, having received so much from his sovereign, felt disposed
to allow the knights, thanes, and freeholders of the county of Lancaster to share in the royal bounty; and for
this purpose he granted them a charter, whereby they and their heirs, without challenge of him and his heirs,
were allowed to fell, sell, and give, at their will, their forest woods, without being subject to the forest regu-
lations, and to hunt and take hares, foxes, rabbits, and all kinds of wild beasts, except stag, hind, and roebuck,
and wild hogs, in all parts within his forests beyond the demesne hays of the county.” This charter he con-
firmed to them in the first year of his reign (1199), before the celebrated “Carta de Foresta,” (1224) for amelio-
rating the rigours of the forest laws, was sketched; and his successor, Henry III., confirmed these franchises to
the lieges of Lancashire four years after he had signed that charter. These grants, so ratified and confirmed,
were not sufficient to protect “the lieges” against the annoyance of the royal foresters, and on the 18th
of Edward II. (1324-25) we find them presenting a petition to the king, praying that they may enjoy
their chartered privileges without molestation." The answer to this petition was—“Let them come into
the Chancery, and show their charters and confirmations;” and then—“Le Roise avisera ;” which was a
form of refusal. -
The parks, forests, and chases” of Lancashire, in the time of the Edwards, according to the records in the
duchy office, were-Wyresdale, Lonsdale, Quernmore, Amounderness, Blesdale, Derbyshire, Fullwood, Symones-
wood, Lancaster, Croxteth, Toxteth ; and included in the general term of the Forest of Tancaster, were
the forests of Bowland, Blackburnshire, Pendle, Trawden, Accrington, and Rossendale ; in a word, the
1 The vert is the covert, the trees, and the herbage of the forest ; 4 Ex Pet. in Parl., 18 Edward II., No. 17.
and, according to Sir Edward Coke, whatever beast of the forest is * The legal distinction between a forest and a chase is this: the
for the food of man, is venison. latter is under the common law, the former under the forest-laws.
g & * Blackstone says—“A forest in the hands of a subject is properly
2 * *
Lib. de Script. Brit. 187. c. 159. the same thing with a chase, being Subject to the common law, not
3 Duchy Rolls, Rot. f. 12. to the forest-laws.”—Com. ii. 38.
74 QThe #istorg of £ancashire. - CHAP. VII.
high region on the eastern side of the county, the successive possessions of the houses of Lacy and of
Lancaster.
Though the “Carta de Foresta” and the “Assisa et Consuetudines Forestae,” of the 6th Edward I. (1278)
had so far relaxed the rigour of the forest-laws as no longer to allow the life of a man to be put on a level with
the life of a stag, yet assizes of forests were statedly held in this county, at which the Justices in Eyre north
of the Trent presided, and where offences committed against “the vert and the venison” were visited with
heavy penalties. -
A record of the Forest Assize, held at Lancaster 15 Edward I. (1286), discloses pretty fully the system
of forest jurisprudence. We have therein the Justices in Eyre, “Justiciarii Itinerantes,” north of the Trent,
assisted by the Foresters of the Fee, in their ministerial capacity, for they had no judicial office. To these
were added the Wiridors, who presided in the forest courts of attachment and Swainemote, as a kind of
initiative tribunal, leaving it to the judges to ratify or to annul their decisions. To complete the judicial
array, there were added twenty-four Regardors, or jurors, knights of the forest, chosen by virtue of the
king's writ, and elected, like the Viridors, by the freeholders in full county. The presentments for killing
and taking deer are in the usual style, and amounted at this assize to forty-eight in number. The most
remarkable is the plea set up by Nich. de Lee, who, in justification of his conduct in hunting in the king's
forest, urges the chartered privileges (those granted by King John especially) of the knights and freeholders
of Lancashire,” of whom he was doubtless one. These proceedings show that the sanguinary character of the
forest-laws had been gradually ameliorated ever since the time of Canute, by the charters of King John,
Henry III., and Edward I. ; and, instead of expatriation and death, we find the heaviest punishments inflicted
at this memorable assize to consist of fines and imprisonment, and those of a very moderate nature. In a
word, the forest-laws, so severely condemned, were less rigorous under the Plantagenets than are the game-
laws of modern times.
The Lancaster forests, in days of yore, answer with great accuracy to the description given by Manwood,
the elaborate writer on the Forest-Laws, when he says—“A forest is a certaine territory of woody grounds
and pastures, privileged for wild beasts and fowls of forest, chase, and warren, to rest and abide in under the
protection of the king, for his princely delight and pleasure.” The forest-laws, as administered at the assise
of the forests of Lancaster and of Pickering, are quoted by this authority as the most perfect model of forest
jurisprudence. “The earl of Lancaster,” says he, “in the time of Edward II. and Edward III. had a forest
in the counties of Lancaster and York, in the which he did execute the forest-laws as largely as any king in
this realm did. And even at this day (A.D. 1580) there are no records so much followed as those which were
executed by the said earl in his forests.”
In much later times we have had an English monarch displaying his solicitude for the preservation of
the “vert and venison” in the forests of Lancashire. The following royal warrant, addressed to the Master
Foresters, Bow-bearers, and Keepers of the Forests, Parks, and Chases, in the county palatine of Lancaster,
and in other parts of the duchy, bearing the signature of King William III. and countersigned by the
chancellor and auditor of the duchy, will form a not inapt conclusion to this digression. . -
WILLIAM R. -
Gſäffereag Complaint has been made to Us that great Destruction has been made of Our Deer in severall of Our Forrests, Chaces &
Parks within Our Duchy & County Palatine of Lancaster, and that some of you have refused to give an Account thereof: Our
Royall Will and Pleasure is, that you and every of you, do from time to time, as often as it shall be required of you, give a.
true and just Account To Our Right Trusty and Right Well-beloved Cozen & Counsellor Thomas Earle of Stamford, Chancellor
of Our Duchy & County Palatine of Lancaster, or Chancellor for the Time being, Of All Our Deer within the Forrests, Chases
& Parks where you are respectively concerned, and of what Destruction has been made thereof. And at the Close of every
Season you also give a particular and true Account what Number of Our Deer have been killed, by whom, for whom, and
by whose Order or Authority, and of what Stock is or shall be remaining in Our Forrests, Chases, and Parks wherein you are
concerned as aforesaid, that all abuses and ill practices may be remedied, and Our Deer better preserved for the future. And
hereof you are not to faile, as you will answer the contrary at your Perill.–Given at Our Court at Kensington the 23d day of
December 1697, and in the Ninth year of Our Reign.
By his Majesty's Command.
& STAMFORD.
Enrolled in the Office of the Auditor of the Lord the King that now is, of his Duchy of Lancaster,
in the South Parts, 20 Dec. 9 Wm. III. 1697. p Jo, Bennett, Aud.
The act of Magna Charta, so recently granted by John, was confirmed and ratified by Henry III, to
whom an aid of one-fifteenth of all the moveables of his people was given by Parliament in return for this
favour, with the reservation that those only who paid the fifteenth should be entitled to the liberties and
privileges of the charter. To give increased stability to the obligations of this engagement between the king
and his people, all the prelates and abbots were assembled, with burning tapers in their hands, and the great
charter being raised in their presence, they denounced the sentence of excommunication against all who
should henceforth violate this fundamental law. Then, throwing down their tapers on the ground, they
exclaimed—“May the soul of every one who incurs this sentence so stink and corrupt in hell !” To which
1 Duc. Rot. 15 Edw. I. f. 12. * See John's Charter, p. 72, consulted with advantage by those who wish to obtain more than a
* See Manwood on the Forest Laws, p. 72, a work which may be popular acquaintance with this subject. -
CHAP. VII. e Čije ??istory of £ancashire. 75
the king, who took part in the ceremony, added—“So help me God. I will keep these articles inviolate, as
I am a man, as I am a christian, as I am a knight, and as I am a king crowned and anointed.”
The trial by ordeal, introduced by the Saxons, and continued through so many successive ages, to the
outrage of justice and the Scandal of the nation, could now no longer be tolerated. The Church of Rome,
never prone to innovation, was the first to protest against a standard so fallible. And accordingly we find
royal letters of the reign of Henry III. (1219) addressed to the itinerant judges in the counties of Lancaster,
Cumberland, and Westmorland, the north-western circuit of that day, announcing to the judges that
because it was not determined previous to the opening of the circuit, what form of trial they should undergo
who were charged with robbery, murder, arson, and the like, “since the ordeal of fire and water had been
prohibited by the Roman Church,” it had been provided by the king in council, that the judges should
proceed in the following manner with persons accused of these crimes:–viz. That those charged with the
greater crime, and to whom violent suspicion attached, should be held and safely confined in prison, but not
in such a manner as to incur peril of life or limb : That persons accused of other crimes, and to whom, had
it not been prohibited, the ordeal of fire and water might have been sufficient, should be required to quit the
realm : And that those charged with minor offences should be liberated on bail. These directions, it was
felt, were very vague and general; but as they were all that the council could at the time provide, the judges
were left at liberty to follow their own discretion, and to act according to the dictates of their consciences.
In this reign the undisputed possession of that great mass of Lancashire property, the lands between
Ribble and Mersey, was conveyed by the family of Roger de Maresey to Randulf or Randle, earl of Chester,
in virtue of a compact of which the following is a translation :-
This agreement is made between the Lord Randle, earl of Chester and Lincoln, and Roger de Maresey: viz.—that the said
Earl and Roger shall deliver to Sir Ralph de Bray, one forty marks [#26: 13:4], and the other the charter which the said Roger
makes to the lord the earl of the sale and demise of all his lands which he had or may have between the Ribble and Mersey; to
wit, so that Roger shall go without delay between Ribble and Mersey, to the dispossessing himself of the said lands, and to the
causing of all those (who held of him there) to do their homage to the said lord the earl, or their fealty to his bailiffs appointed in
his place. Which done, the said Ralph de Bray shall render to the oft-named earl the charter already named, and to the same
Roger the said forty marks. If the tenants refuse to do homage, etc., the earl or his bailiffs shall compel them to render it. And
the said Roger, at the cost of the lord the earl, shall journey together with the earl's bailiffs, so far as this business requires, so that
what is aforesaid may be consummated. And for the greater security, each of them to this writing in the form of a chirograph hath
set his seal. . Witnesses: the Lord Walter, Abbot of Chester, Sir William de Vernon, Justiciar of Chester, Ralph de Bray, Walter
Dayvill, Richard de Biron, John de Lexington, Simon and John, clerks.
[From the Couchir Book of the Duchy Office, Lancaster Place, London, tom. i. Comitatus Lancastriae, fol. 77, num. 70.]
Notwithstanding the ratification of Magna Charta, the nation continued much agitated by the intrigues
of the nobles within, and the hostility of the bordering countries from without. To meet this emergency, a
proclamation was issued to the sheriffs of the counties of Lancaster, Cumberland, and Westmorland, ordering
them to assemble all those in their respective jurisdictions who held of the king in chief to the amount of a
knight's fee, to be prepared with horses and arms, to march with the king from Chester on an expedition into
Wales against Llewellyn, and other rebels. The barons, in the meantime, more anxious about the redress of
their own grievances than the incursions of the Welsh, assembled in Supreme council at Oxford under Simon
de Montfort, earl of Leicester, and, after insisting upon the strict fulfilment of the articles of Magna Charta,
demanded that four knights should be chosen by the freeholders from each county in the kingdom, to make
inquiries into the complaints of the inhabitants, and to present them at the next parliament. They also
resolved that three parliaments should be held in every year, including burgesses, as well as barons and ecclesi-
astical dignitaries, the two latter of whom had alone been hitherto summoned; that the sheriffs should be
annually chosen in each county by the freeholders; that the sheriffs should have no power to fine the barons;
that no heirs should be committed to the wardship of foreigners; that no new warrens or forests should be
created; nor the revenues of any counties or hundreds let to farm. The king, feeling that the tendency of
these extensive measures of reform was to abridge the royal power, strenuously opposed their introduction,
and the matter was finally referred to the pope, by whose decision the great charter was ratified, but the
ordinances of the Supreme council of Oxford were annulled. The barons did not hesitate to resist the award
of his holiness by force of arms, and Robert de Ferrars, earl of Derby, was amongst the most distinguished of
the insurgents (A.D. 1263). An association was formed in the city of Worcester, consisting of the populace
and the leaders of the insurgents, amongst whom were eighteen of the great barons, headed by the earls of
Leicester, Gloucester, and Derby, with Le Despenser the chief justiciary. By the terms of their compact they
were never to make peace with the king but by common consent, and with such securities for their liberties
and privileges as those which were contained in the convention of Oxford. A long and sanguinary civil war
ensued, during which the king was taken prisoner by the barons, and obliged to ratify the obnoxious conven-
tion. Subsequently, Simon de Montfort, earl of Leicester, fell in the contest, and the earl of Derby was
taken prisoner. This struggle was, however, essentially conducive to the establishment of the public liberties,
and laid the foundation of our representative system of government. The defeat of the barons elevated the
house of Lancaster. The forfeited title and possessions of Simon de Montfort devolved by royal favour upon
1 Foedera, vol. i. p. 146.
76 The #istory of Łancashire. CHAP. VII.
Edmund Crouchback, the second son of Henry III., and the estates of Robert de Ferrars, earl of Derby, were
also conferred upon him by the king, with a grant of the possession of the county of Lancaster, but not to the
prejudice of Roger de Lancastre.
Llewellyn, prince of Wales, had been deeply implicated with the barons of England in their wars against
their sovereign, Henry III., and when Edward I. ascended the throne, one of the first acts of his government
was to summon the Welsh prince to do homage in person to the new king. With this mandate Llewellyn
refused to comply, except upon the condition that the king's son, and other noblemen, should be delivered to
the Welsh court as hostages for his safe custody. Edward was in no temper for parley, and accordingly we
find a summons from the king calling upon Roger de Lancastre to attend upon his majesty, to proceed against
the Welsh, who are represented as having risen in rebellion. This royal order was followed by a writ of
military summons (dated Windsor, 12th Dec. 5 Edw. I. 1276) from the king to Edmund, earl of Lancaster,
and the sheriff of the county, announcing that Llewellyn, son of Griffin, prince of Wales, and his rebellious
associates, had invaded the land of the lieges in the Marches, and committed homicides and other enormous
damages, and commanding that the sheriff do forthwith assemble all that are capable of bearing arms in the
hundreds, boroughs, and market-towns of his shrievalty, to march to Worcester, in the octaves of St. John the
Baptist, prepared with horses and arms.' The war was continued, with some intermissions, through several
Successive years; and in order to clear a passage into Wales, it appears that a mandate was issued by the
king in the year 1282 to the sheriff of Lancashire, ordering him to provide two hundred woodcutters (coupia-
toribus) to cut away the wood, and thereby to open passes into Wales. These men were to be powerful and
active, and each of them was to come provided with a large hatchet to cut down the trees. They were to be
chosen in the presence of William de Percy, who was sent specially into the county for that purpose; and
were to muster at Chester on Saturday on the octaves of the feast of St. Peter. For this service the sheriff
was to pay, from the issues of his bailiwick, into the hands of each hewer, threepence per diem for his wages.”
At the time when these Lancashire husbandmen, of extraordinary powers, were receiving threepence a-day
for their labour, the price of wheat was ninepence per bushel, and taking the average of wages in England for
the six hundred years following, it will be found (unfavourable seasons apart), that the wages of labour have
generally been in the proportion of a peck of wheat per day. In large towns the price of manufacturing
labour has often been higher, and in some cases, especially amongst the weavers, much lower; but as a
standard, none can approach nearer than the one which is here suggested. Much obscurity is thrown over
historical and topographical works on the subject of money, for want of some standard of value to which the
Sums mentioned in different ages may be referred. No standard will be found so unerring as the prices of
wheat and of labour, which, on being compared in times past with the price of those articles in our day, will
always convey to the mind some definite notion, when sums of money are mentioned, of the value of those
sums at the period under consideration. With this view the following table, extracted from the records in
the exchequer, and collated with Paris, Walsingham, Stowe, Fleetwood, and others, is constructed :—
CHRONOLOGICAL TABLE,
SHOWING THE PRICE AT WHICH THE ARTICLES THEREIN MENTIONED SOLD IN THE YEARS SPECIFIED.
A.D. # S. d.
1202. Wheat (rainy season) g g e ſe is tº per quarter 0 12 0
1248. Thirty-seven sheep for the King * & tº & ſº * 0 18 4
1253. Wheat fell to g e º e * e * per quarter 0 2 6
1256. Brewers ordered to sell three gallons of ale in the country for a penny.
1272. A Labourer's wages . tº e wº © © & per day . 0 0 1,
A Harvest Man iº & do. . () () 2
1274. A Bible in nine vols., with a Comment & & º & . 33 6 8
1275. Rent of the Lord Mayor's House . © º e º a year . 1 0 0
1280. The Chancellor's Salary gº * e g g * do. . 40 0 0
1283. An English Slave and his Family sold for g & . 0 13 4
1285. Grinding Wheat ſº & * g gº e per quarter 0 0 0}
1286. Wheat, after a great storm . º * & g * do. . 0 16 0
1288. ,, fell to & º g g & ſº * do. () { 8
1294. Wheat (a grievous famine) . g g g º $ do. I () ()
Wheat, average in the 13th century, about . tº º tº do. 0 6 0
1300. Wheat and Barley . tº g & © * g do. () 3 4.
Oats . e e º g * * g e do. 0 1 8
A Primer for the Prince of Wales, now 15 years 11 months old te 2 0 ()
1302. A Cow e gº º g © . g () 6 0
A fat Sheep . e t e * iº º g e 0 1 0
A Cock or Hen tº * º gº * > g e each 0 0 13,
1309. A Pair of Shoes º g tº tº © & * * 0 0 4
1314. Prices fixed by Parliament—A fat Ox & e e 0 16 0
A Cow . is e . 60 12 0 A. Sheep . 0 1 2
A fat Hog & & . 0 3 4 A fat Goose & . 0 0 24,
Pair of Chickens . () () I Eggs per dozen 0 0 0%
This Maximum increased the scarcity which it was intended to remove. The growers would not bring in provisions, and what
was sold was dearer than before. The Act was therefore repealed in 1315.
* Rot. Claus. 5 Ed. I. m. 12 d. in Turr, Lond. * Foedera, vol. ii. p. 611.
CHAP. VII. Qſìje #istory of £ancashire.
A.D. º £ S. d.
1315. Salt (an unheard-of price) . e ſº & e e a bushel . , 0 2 6
1326. Yearly Rent of Arable Land in Kent tº gº sº tº per acre . 3d. to 0 0 6
Pasture Land tº & tº tº º do. wº . 0 0 1
Meadow Land & * º & e do. . 4d. to 0 0 10
1338. Allowance from Edward III. to 32 Students at Cambridge . º per diem . . 0 0 2
Wool taken by the King (a forced price) . g * & per stone of 14 lbs. 0 2 0
1342. Wine º e & º t ſº e g per gallon . 0 0 4
1347. King's Apothecary, a pension for life e e gº g per day . 0 0 6
1348. A year of pestilence—a Horse e & º . 0 6 8
a fat Ox .* . 0 4 0
a Cow . . 0 1 0
a Heifer wº . 0 0 6
1357. Ransom of David King of Scotland . º º tº tº e 100,000 0 0
1360. of John King of France tº * is e tº e . 500,000 0 0
A Horse for military service . g * o g º e e . 1 0 0
A Master Carpenter, 4d.—his Journeyman . p gº e per day 0 0 2
1379. Wine, white, 6d.-red º 's tº ſe e ... per gallon 0 0 4.
1385. Assistant Clerk of Parliament g * tº * g a year . . 5 0 0
1390. Kendal Cloth g sº . † g g sº a piece 3s. 4d. to 0 5 0
Wheat, average in the 14th century, about . g e g per quarter 0 6 0
1407. Salt . tº e g per bushel 0 0 7%
A Plough . ſº g tº tº $º { } gº g ę 0 0 10
Wages of a Thresher g ſº g *: * e e per day 0 0 2
1414. A Priest's stipend, with cure of Souls e s e g a year . 5 6 8
without . g & . & & do. . 4 13 4
1482. 220 Draught Horses for $9 º § te ge e gº 100 0 0
1495. Allowance to Edward the Fourth’s Daughter * º * a week . 1 0 0
for her eight servants . tº g ſº a year . 51 II. 8
Oats . • " . * - a quarter . . 0 2 0
Wheat g g g ſº gº o is g () 6 0
Wheat, average in 15th century, as estimated for rent, about º 0 7 0
1547. Income of the poor churches in York * ſº gº & a year 1 6 8
1562. Wheat, conversion price g o ſº {º t g per quarter 0 8 0
Ale, when malt was 8s. per quarter . º • g g per gallon 0 0 2
1576. Beef and Mutton . gº • & • g e a stone . () () 6
Weal . gº & * g ū g © . . . 8d. to 0 1 0
Wheat, average in the 16th century, about . º e º per quarter | | 0
Labour of a husbandman per week, in the 16th century * º 0 5 0
Average Price of Wheat &nd Malt per quarter, at Windsor.
From 1611 to 1620. tº * . £2 1 1; From 1671 to 1680. e º . £2 10 8%
1621 to 1630. º * . 2 5 2 1681 to 1690. * • 1 19 1%
1631 to 1640. in & . 2 6 10% 1691 to 1700. 2 16 10%
1641 to 1650. e tº . 3 12 8 1701 to 1710. 2 3 23
1651 to 1660. g ë . 2 10 0 1711 to 1720. 2 4 11
1661 to 1670. † ſº . 2 8 10; 1721 to 1731. 2 I I
Labour of a husbandman per week, in the 17th century 0 9 0
These prices of wheat are from the Eton, Books, and are for the best grain; the measure also is above the legal standard,
so that 7-9ths of the preceding quotations will form about the average price of all England.
Average London Price in January.
Wheat. Barley. Oats.
From 1732 to 1740 . s © . £1 8 10 & #0 15 13. £0 12 5
1741 to 1750 . - o . 1 5 8; 0 14 3 0 12 4
1751 to 1760 . g tº . 1 13 3 0 17 11 0 14 10%
1761 to 1770 . e & . 1 13 1.1; 1 2 () 0 15 1.1%
Average Price in England and Wales.
Wheat. Barley. Oats.
From 1771 to 1775 . g tº . 62 10 0 £1 6 9 #20 16 10%
1776 to 1780 . e & . I 19 0 I 0 0 0 16 63
1781 to 1785 . * tº . 2 9 2 1 4 4% 0 16 10
1786 to 1790 . te e . 2 5 10 1 3 5% 0 17 0} .
1791 to 1795 . º e . 2 12 11 1 10 11; 1 1 0
1796 to 1800 . :- * . 3 12 3% 1 17 8 1 5 2
Labour of a husbandman per week, in the 18th century * e 0 1 1 0
AVERAGE PRICE OF WHEAT IN ENGLAND AND WALES
In each year from 1801 to 1830 inclusive, from the Official Returns.
In 1801 . 4.5 18 3} In 1809 . £4 15 2 In 1817 . £4 14 4; In 1824 #2 17 0
1802 . 3 7 4 1810 - 5 6 2+ 1818 . 4 4 2+ 1825 3 6 53
1803 2 16 5; 1811 .. 4 14 11 1819 . 3 13 0% 1826 2 17 3%
1804 3 1 7 1812 . 6 5 6 1820 - 3 5 6 1827 2 16 10
1805 4 7 93. 1813 . 5 8 5 1821 . 2 14 4 1828 3 11 10%
1806 4 0 13 1814 . 3 14 0% 1822 - 2 3 5; 1829 3 16 10
1807 3 12 4} . 1815 . 3 4 4% 1823 - 2 11 9 ' 1830 3 14 6
1808 . 3 19 2 1816 . 3 15 5%
Labour of a husbandman per week, in the 19th century 0 12 0
78 - . Çür #istory of £ancaglitz. CHAP. . VII.
COIN AGE.
For a further illustration of the Scale of Prices in successive ages, it is necessary to show how many pounds, shillings, and
pennies have been coined out of a pound troy of silver, at different times in England; and also the degree of fineness of the standard,
and the times at which the several alterations have taken place.
e * lue of t
Fine Silver. Alloy. Yº f #.
Oz, dwt. Oz, dwt. # S. d.
Before A.D. 1300 a pound of standard silver contained . . 11 2 0 18 1 0 0
1300. 28 Edward I. ſº g tº e © º ſº e . 11 2 0 18 1 0 3
1344, 18 Edward III. . ſº * § º g e * . 11 2 0 18 I 2 2
1346. 20 Edward III. . g • , , * º g º . 11 2 0 18 I 2 6
1353. 27 Edward III. . & & e g g e g . 11 2 0 18 1 5 ()
1412. 13 Henry IV. . ſº * & e & g g . 11 2 0 18 1 10 0
1464. 4 Edward IV. . g tº & g ſº gº g . 11 2 O 18 1 17 6
1527. 18 Henry VIII. . & º † s ſº g g . 11 2 0 18 2 5 0
1543. 34 Henry VIII. . § g & § g g iº . 10 0 2 0 2 8 0
1545, 36 Henry VIII. - 6 0 6 () 2 8 ()
1546. 37 Henry VIII. . 4 '0 8 0 2 8 '0
1549. 3 Edward VI. gº e † g tº & g . 6/ 0 6 0 3 12 0
1551. 5 Edward VI. " . g tº * ſº g g † . 3 0 9 () 3 12 0
1551, end of 1552. 6 Edw. VI. . & * † º g . 11 I 0 19 3 0 . ()
1553. 1 Mary . e g {{ e º g sº º , 11 0 1 0 3 () ()
1560. 2 Elizabeth * g o & ſº tº * g . 11 2 0 18 3 0 0
1601. 43 Elizabeth & & tº te º º g tº . 11 2 0 18 § 2 º' 3 2 ()
1816. 56 George III. . º s 11 2 & e tº 0 18 3 6 0 1
These rates of English Money, except the last, are taken by Mr. Folkes from the indentures made with the masters of the
mint, and consequently may be depended upon as authentic ; the last is from the act 56 George III. cap. 68 (1816).
The mines of Lancashire were yet unexplored; and the most important of all its minerals, as constituting
the principal source of its manufacturing greatness, had lain undisturbed in the bowels of the earth till the
reign of Henry III., when coals were, for the first time, used as fuel in England. From that period to the
present, the great coal-fields in the south and in the centre of the county of Lancaster have continued to be
worked, but the full extent of their capacity and utility was not shown till the middle of the eighteenth
century, when the agency of steam began to be brought into general operation under the powerful geniuses
of Crompton, Arkwright, and Watt, aided by the skill, enterprise, and capital of Peel, and a hundred other
names that might be mentioned. . §
In the early ages of our history, the honour of knighthood, with the military services to which it was
incident under the feudal system, was often forced upon the subject, and hence we find that, in the year 1278,”
a writ was addressed to the sheriff of Lancashire, commanding him to distrain upon all persons seised of land
of the value of £20 per annum, whether held of the king in capite, or of any other lord, who ought to be
knights, and were not, and all such were ordered forthwith to take out their patent of knighthood. Fourteen
years after this, a writ was issued, wherein the qualification was raised to double the amount, and a writ,
dated the 6th of February 1292, was issued to the sheriff of Lancashire, along with other sheriffs, proclaiming
that all persons holding lands in fee, or of inheritance, of the value of £40 per annum, must take the order of
knighthood before Christmas in that year. One of the prerogatives of the crown was to relax and to vary these
services, and hence a writ, addressed to the sheriff of Lancashire, was issued, reciting “ that the commonalty
of England having performed good services against the Welsh, the king excuses persons, not holding lands of
the value of £100 per annum, from taking the order of knighthood;” but in this writ it was directed, that all
holding above that amount, and not taking that order before the Nativity of the Virgin, are to be distrained
upon. Subsequently, injunctions were addressed to the sheriff, commanding him to make extents on the lands
of those who refuse to take the order of knighthood, and to hold them for the king until further orders. It
must not be supposed that this honour was always declined, or that no man's ambition led him to aspire to
the distinction. Such a conclusion would be erroneous; for we find a writ to the sheriff of Lancashire, of the
date of the 6th of April 1305, directing him to proclaim that all who should become knights, and are not,
must repair to London before Whit-Sunday next, to receive that distinction, if properly qualified.
While the contest continued between England and Wales, a number of public officers were appointed,
called commissioners of array (arraiatores), whose duty it was to array the troops engaged in the war, to pre-
serve the peace in the midst of so much agitation, and to communicate the views and intentions of the govern-
ment to the people. Roger de Mortimer, who enjoyed a large share of the royal favour, received the appoint-
ment of conservator of Lampaderoour [Lampeter], in West Wales, which appointment was announced by
letter to the prelates and clergy, in Lancashire, through the medium of Reginald de Grey, the captain, in
Chester and Flintshire. - -
The necessities of the public treasury, in 1282, obliged the king to demand an aid by way of loan from
the religious houses, and from all the merchants in the kingdom, and John de Kirkeby was empowered to
declare certain difficult and important matters with which he was entrusted, explanatory, no doubt, of the
* In 1816 the pound of bullion was first coined into sixty-six shillings, of which, however, only sixty-two were issued; four shil-
lings being kept at the mint as a Seignorage, * Rot. Claus, 6 Edw. I. m. 8, d. Turr. Lond.
CELAP. VII. (Iſiſe £istory of 3Lancašijire. 79
king's necessities, to the people of Lancashire. Speedily afterwards, letters-patent were addressed to Robert
de Harington, John Byron, and Robert de Holland, appointing them conservators of the peace, pursuant to
the statute of Winton, and writs of Venire were issued for that purpose."
During the contest with Wales, several summonses for military service were issued in Lancashire, the
number of which was probably increased by its vicinity to the seat of war. On the 26th of May 1282, a writ
was sent to the sheriff, reciting an ordinance in council, whereby every person holding land or rents of the
value of £30 a-year was required to provide himself with a horse and suitable armour, and to join the king's
forces against the Welsh, and even persons unfit for military service were required to find and to equip substi-
tutes. On the 30th of July, in the same year, a docket of commission issued, empowering William le Butiller,
de Werenton, to press 1000 men, capable of bearing arms, into the king's service; from which it would appear
that the obnoxious practice of impressing men into the navy in latter times extended then to the army. The
contest with Wales was now at its crisis. On the 24th of November, a writ was addressed to the sheriff of
Lancashire, requiring him to send all men capable of bearing arms to march against the Welsh ; and Edmund,
earl of Lancaster, was required to furnish from his lands in Lancashire 200 soldiers. Early in the following
year another levy' was called for ; and the earl, on the summons of the king, was required to repair with horse
and arms to Montgomery : a similar summons to arms was also addressed to Roger de Lancastre; and to supply
the necessary ways and means for this vast expenditure of the government, a commission was issued, consti-
tuting Henry de Newark and others collectors of the previous levy. The skill and perseverance of Edward,
seconded by the zeal and constancy of his subjects, at length reduced the Welsh nation to the greatest
extremities. Llewellyn, finding all his resources exhausted, his country almost depopulated by the length and
severity of the contest, and famine rapidly completing the destruction which the Sword had commenced, was
obliged to submit to the conqueror; and the ancient Cambrians, after having for 800 years maintained their
national independence, passed under the English yoke. The title of “Prince of Wales” was now conferred
for the first time on a “foreign prince,” and the eldest son of the king of England has ever since that period
borne this designation. -
The wars of the crusades, in which England took so large a share, had served to drain the treasury, and
the cost of these holy contests seemed especially to belong to the church. Pope Nicholas IV. to whom, as the
head of the see of Rome, the first-fruits and tenths of all English benefices were payable, granted to King
Edward I. the tenth of these benefices for six years towards defraying the expenses of the Crusades. In
order to ascertain the full value of the livings, and ultimately to enrich the church, his Holiness caused a
survey to be made, usually called “Pope Nicholas's Valor,” which was completed in the province of Canter-
bury in 1291, and in the province of York in the following year, under the direction of the bishops of
Winchester and Lincoln. This valuable and curious document is still preserved ; and its contents, so far as
regards the county of Lancaster, will be introduced in that department of our work which relates to the eccle-
siastical history of the county. How far this exhibition of the wealth of the Church of England influenced
the mind of the king, it is impossible now to ascertain ; but in this reign the celebrated statute of mortmain
was passed, by which the clergy were prevented by law from making new acquisitions of land for the use of
the church.
This county had scarcely recovered from the drain made upon its blood and treasure by the war with the
neighbouring principality of Wales, when it was called upon, in common with the other parts of England, to
engage in another contest, still more formidable, against the combined power of Scotland and France. The
causes of these long and sanguinary wars it is not the province of this history to investigate. On the break-
ing out of the war in 1293, writs of military service were issued to the sheriffs, announcing that the king was
about to set out for Gascony, to protect his inheritance from the king of France ; and all the knights, abbots,
and priors, holding in chief by military tenure, or serjeanty, were required to meet the king at Portsmouth, to
embark in this expedition. In the same year, letters-patent were sent to the knights and freeholders in
Lancashire, announcing that collectors were appointed of the tenths in aid of the war: writs were issued in
the early part of the following year, to sixty-eight persons about to embark with Edmund, earl of Lancaster, to
Gascony, exempting their goods from the payment of this impost, and, as a matter of precaution, orders from
the king were issued to the sheriff of Lancashire, reciting, that through some religious foreigners, as well
Normans as others, residing in this kingdom, and dwelling on the sea-coast, not a little danger had arisen to
the safety of the state; he was therefore commanded to cause such persons to remove to the interior without
delay, and to give up their places to religious English. The sheriffs were also commanded further to draw to
land all their ships and boats, wherever they might find them, in the sea or any other water, and to cause all
their furniture and cargoes to be wholly removed, so that the vessels might be of no use.
The commissioners for assessing and collecting the tenth and the seventh in 1296 were, “Magr Rich. de
Hoghton, clerk,” and “ Rad. de Mansfield, clerk; ” and that the returns might be duly made, Rich. de Hoghton
and John Genty] were earnestly required to appear in their proper persons before the treasurer and the
1. By the statute of Winton (Winchester), passed 13 Edward I. vided, that every hundred shall be answerable for the robberies and
(1285) it is, amongst a number of other important enactments, pro- other offences committed within its jurisdiction.
80 (The #istory ºf 3Lancašijire. CHAP. VII.
barons of the exchequer, on the Octave of the feast of St. Nicholas ensuing, to do and execute those matters
which should be more fully explained to them ; and this they were to do as they regarded the king's honour,
and their own loss of all things, both lands and tenements, goods and chattels, and as they would avoid the
king's perpetual wrath. The exactions of the king to carry on the war became burdensome in the extreme:
the first peers of the realm murmured against his demands upon their purse, and upon their personal services;
and to such an excess did their altercations arise, that the king, in requiring the reluctant Services in Flanders
of his constable Humphrey Bohun, earl of Hereford, and one of the founders of the duchy possessions,
exclaimed—“Sir earl, by God you shall either go, or hang !” was answered by the earl with equal
determination—“By God, sir king, I will neither go, nor hang !” The clergy were not more disposed to
acquiesce in the arbitrary exactions of the king and his ministers, than the laity; in consequence of which,
Inumbers of them were put out of the protection of the law ; but in order at once to stimulate their loyalty,
and inflame their fears, writs were issued to John de Lancastre, and to the sheriffs, empowering them to
appoint commissioners to reverse the recognisances of such of the clergy as wished to receive the king's
protection, and to arrest and imprison all those who had promulgated excommunications and ecclesiastical
censures against his ministers. -
At this early period of our history newspapers were unknown, but in the 25 Edward I. (1297) the
king addressed a mandate to John de Lancastre, sheriff of the county, announcing that his Majesty had
learnt, that newsmongers (“trovewrs de novelles,” as they are called) were going about the country, sowing
discord amongst the prelates, earls, and barons, as well as others of his subjects, endeavouring thereby to
disturb the public peace, and to subvert the good order of the realm ; which said offences, the sheriffs were
required to inquire into, and to take order for bringing the delinquents to justice. From enemies the Welsh
had been converted into allies; and while the king was engaged in the French war, an army from Wales was
appointed to march against the Scots, to carry hostilities into their country. That no interruption might be
given to that force, letters were addressed by the king to the sheriffs of Lancashire and Yorkshire, as well as
to those of Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire, directing them, at their peril, to take care that all bakers and
brewers should have a sufficient supply of bread and beer in the towns through which the Welsh army had to
pass, on their march “against the Scottish rebels.” In the course of this year, no fewer than three rates
were imposed : the first, of an eighth ; the second, of a fifth ; and the third, of a ninth of the moveables of
the subject ; and Robt. de Hoyland, Allan le Norreys, John Gentyl, and Hugh de Clyderhou, with the sheriff
of the county, were appointed assessors and collectors for the county of Lancaster.” To reconcile the people
to these accumulated impositions, and to assuage the popular discontent, letters were addressed to the sheriff
of Lancashire, and the sheriffs of the other counties, directing them to take means for the redress of public
grievances, the most intolerable of which probably was that of excessive taxation.
At this time the resources of the government were principally derived from the landed possessions of
the people ; but commerce and manufactures, to which in future ages the state was to stand so much indebted
for its supplies, now began to dawn upon the country, and the establishment of the famous commercial society
of “Merchant Adventurers” (in 1216), with the partial introduction of the staple manufacture of woollens,
both in the west and in the north of England, laid the foundation of those mighty resources, which in modern
days distinguish the county of Lancaster from all other districts of the world.
In the time of the Edwards of the Plantagenet line, the population of Lancashire must have been very
considerable ; for in this year the commissioners of array, in their precepts to Will. de Ormesby, the king's
justiciary, directed that a levy of three thousand foot soldiers should be raised in Lancashire, and sent to
Newcastle-upon-Tyne, by the feast of St. Nicholas, to be placed under the command of Robt. de Clifford,
warder of the Scotch marches, adjoining to Cumberland. The following year a writ was directed to John
de Warren, earl of Surrey, directing him to march forthwith to Scotland, at the head of the troops raised in
Lancashire and in the neighbouring counties. -
The war with France having been brought to an end by the mediation of his Holiness the pope, and the
peace consummated by a double marriage, that of Edward himself with Margaret, the sister of Philip, king
of France, and that of the Prince of Wales with Isabella, the daughter of the same monarch, the king was
left at liberty to turn his undivided attention to the conquest of Scotland; and for the purpose of infusing
fresh vigour into the operations against that country, Edward determined to place himself at the head of the
English army. No fewer than three successive writs of military summons were issued during the year 1297
to the authorities of the county of Lancaster; the first to the sheriff, the second to Thomas, earl of Lan-
castre, and the third to Henry baron de Lancastre, calling upon the levies to meet the king at Carlisle, and
appointing Robt. de Clifford the king's commandant (“cheventain”) of Lancashire, Cumberland, and
Westmorland. The spirit of Scotland sank under the mighty array that was proceeding against that
country, headed by a monarch accustomed to conquer. Robert Bruce, father and son, along with several
other nobles, made their submission to Edward; but John Baliol, the king, assembled the flower of the
* Rot. Claus, 24 Ed. I. m. 3. d. Dated Bury St. Edmunds, 15th November 1296. * Rymer's Foedera, vol. ii. p. 783.
8 Rot. Parl, 25 Edward I. p. 2. m.
CHAP. VII. (The 3?igtorg Of £ancashire. 81
Scotch nobility, together with a large portion of the military force of the kingdom, hoping by one mighty
effort to expel the invaders and to liberate their country. For this purpose, they made a general and
simultaneous attack upon the English, under the Earl Warrenne, who were at that time besieging Dunbar
with a force of twelve thousand men. Undismayed by Superior numbers, the English general advanced to
receive them, and a sanguinary battle ensued, which issued in the total defeat of the Scotch army with a loss
of twenty thousand men. One of the first consequences of this victory was the surrender of Dunbar, and
the other fortresses of Scotland soon followed the example. Baliol, the king, despairing of his country's
cause, resigned his crown into the hands of the English monarch, who, on his return from Scotland, conveyed
with him the ancient stone of inauguration, which had for so many ages been deposited at Scone, and to
which tradition attached the belief, that wherever that stone was placed, the monarch in possession of it
would govern Scotland.
Though subdued, the spirit of the Scotch nation was not wholly broken. The severity of the English
justiciary Ormesby, and the exactions of the treasurer Cressingham, rendered the yoke of the conqueror
intolerable ; and William Wallace, the descendant of an ancient family, whose valour and skill will be
remembered through all time in Scotch history, reanimated the spirits and rallied the scattered forces of his
country. The English army under Warrenne, consisting of forty thousand men, having obtained a victory
at Annandale, pushed forward to Stirling, where they were encountered by Wallace on the banks of the
Forth, and the greatest part of their number was pushed into the river at the edge of the sword. After this
signal victory, Wallace, in his turn, became the invader, and the north of England, as far as the borders of
the county of Lancaster, was laid waste with fire and sword. The king, on receiving this disastrous news in
Flanders, hastened back to England; and having placed himself at the head of one hundred thousand men, of
which Lancashire furnished its full complement, he chased the invaders into Scotland and inflicted upon them
a signal overthrow at Falkirk. Wallace, aided by the son of Robert Bruce, still kept the field, and, by a kind
of predatory warfare, rendered the conquest of Scotland anything but secure.
No cessation was allowed to the efforts, military and pecuniary, of the inhabitants of the north of
England; for, in the two following years, 1298-9, eight writs of military service were issued, appertaining to
the county of Lancaster. The first directed the sheriff to proclaim the prorogation of the general military
summons of the 26th September preceding; the second was a writ of military summons to Thomas, earl of
Lancaster, requiring him to appear at York on the morrow of St. Martin (Nov. 12); the third, addressed to
the commissioners of array, ordering them to raise two thousand foot soldiers in Lancashire, to meet at
Newcastle-upon-Tyne on the eve of St. Katharine (Nov. 24), to march against the Scots; the fourth was a
writ to the commissioners of array, indicating the deteriorated state of the coinage, in which it was announced
that if the soldiers levied by the preceding commissions should be unwilling to march on account of the bad
money then current, or from the severity of the weather, the commissioners were to provide them a premium
in addition to their pay ; the fifth was a summons to Henry, earl of Lancaster, to repair to the army; the
sixth, a writ to Thomas de Banastre to raise two thousand infantry in Lancashire, to meet the king at
Berwick-upon-Tweed; the seventh, a writ to the sheriff of Lancashire, directing that all prelates and other
priests, and all widows and other women holding of the king, should send substitutes to Carlisle; and the
eighth, a summons to Thomas, John, and Henry de Lancaster, to meet the king, to proceed against the Scots.
In the following year (1300) commissions were addressed to the sheriff of Lancashire, empowering him
to summon all persons holding lands or rents of the value of forty pounds per annum and upwards, to meet
the king at Carlisle; and in the same year the commissioners of array called by various writs upon Robert
de Holand, Mathew de Redman, Allan Norreys, John Gentyl, and Robert de Norreys, to raise in Lancashire,
by separate levies, three thousand men, to meet the king at Carlisle on the Nativity of St. John Baptist, and
on the day after the Assumption. The oppressive nature of these ancient conscriptions may be collected
from the royal proclamations of the same period, by which Jehan de Seint Jehan (the king's commandant
“cheventayne’), in all matters relating to deeds of arms in Lancashire, etc., was empowered, along with the
Earl de Abingdon, to amerce those refractory persons who refused to perform services, either in defence of
the marches or to act against the Scots. -
The writs to the sheriff of Lancashire, in the two following years (1301 and 1302), relate principally to
the assessment and collection of the fifteenths, which both the clergy and the laity were called upon to
pay to the knights appointed to make the collections.
Jehan de Seint Jehan having been superseded in his command in Lancashire by John Butterte, letters
of credence were addressed to the inhabitants, clerical and laical, requiring them to give full faith to the
king's clerk, Ralph de Mounton, and to Richard le Brun, who were commissioned to declare to them certain
weighty matters touching the safety of the country, not explained in the letters of credence, but which, it
appears, related to the king's determination to undertake a fresh expedition against Scotland. One of the
first consequences of this confidential communication was a call upon the commissioners of array, William de
Dacre, Henry de Kygheley, and Robert de Hephale, requiring them to raise seven hundred men in
Lancashire, and to send them to Lancaster after the feast of the Invention of the Cross (May 3, 1303); and
IM
82 (Iſiſt £istory ºf 3Lancashire. CHAP. VII.
all prelates, women, and others unfit to bear arms, but who were willing to pay the fine (twenty pounds for
a knight's fee, and so on in proportion to their possessions), for the services done to the king in Scotland,
were to appear before the treasurer at York on the morrow of the Ascension (May 17); or otherwise, by
substitute, with horse and arms, at Berwick. Aided by a large army, and a no less powerful fleet, Edward
marched victoriously through Scotland, and laid the country at his feet. Amongst his trophies, the gallant
William Wallace became his prisoner, and instead of obtaining that respect to which he was entitled by his
courage and patriotism, he was conveyed in chains to London, where he was tried and executed as a traitor.
The disorganisation of society produced by so much intestine war, exhibited itself on every hand.
Crimes were greatly multiplied, and Peter de Badbate, Edmund Deyncourt, William de Vavasour, John de
Island, and Adam de Middleton, were judges under a commission of Trailbaston appointed to hear and
determine all offences against the peace in the counties of Lancaster and Westmorland, as well as in eight
other counties. The number of offenders rendered necessary the utmost promptitude in the administration
of justice; and the proceedings of the judges, under these commissions, are said to have been so summary, as
not to exceed the time in which their staff of justice, or baston, could be trailed round the room."
One formidable enemy still remained in Scotland—viz, Robert Bruce, the grandson of that Robert, who,
in the time of Baliol, was a competitor for the crown. Animated by those principles of resistance to foreign
sway which had inspired the breasts of so many of his countrymen, this ambitious young nobleman collected
a strong army in Scotland, by means of which he was enabled to expel a large portion of the English from
that country, and to drive their principal army across the borders. Edward, roused to desperation by this
renewed revolt, when he considered his conquest Secure, determined to take signal vengeance upon the
Scottish nation. On his march to the north he took the route of Lancashire, and for some time fixed his
head-quarters at Preston. From this place the king addressed a letter to his Holiness the pope, complaining
of the wrongs he had sustained from the archbishop of Canterbury, and claiming redress. The tidings of a
new war were communicated to John de Lancastre, by a writ, dated the 5th of April 1306, which recites,
that “Robertus de Brus,” late earl of Carrick, and his accomplices, have raised war against the king, with the
intention of usurping the kingdom of Scotland. To resist this aggression, Henry de Percy was appointed
commander-in-chief under the king, and John de Lancastre was required to assist him with all the horses
and arms in his power. At the same time, two writs were addressed to the Sheriff of Lancaster : the first,
requiring him to make purveyance of corn, etc., for the king's army, at the public cost ; and the second, a
letter to the sheriff, archbishops, and other prelates, as well as to women who owed military service, ordering
them to send their substitutes to Carlisle, in fifteen days from the Nativity of St. John Baptist (i.e. before
9th July), or to appear at the exchequer and make fine for the same. In the midst of all this hostility the
Scots and the English were not indisposed to indulge in their ancient games of the jousts and the
tournaments. The indulgence in these pastimes was thought by the king to indicate a degree of levity and
familiarity inconsistent with the relative situation of the two countries; and hence two proclamations were
addressed to the sheriff of Lancashire, requiring him to announce that any persons who should engage in
these sports until the Scottish war was terminated would be liable to arrest, and that their lands and goods
would be seized into the king's hands. From Preston the king marched at the head of one of the most
powerful armies ever seen in Lancashire, to Carlisle, and from thence into Scotland. The final conflict now
approached. Bruce met the English army at Methven, in Perthshire, where a general engagement took
place, which ended in the entire overthrow and dispersion of the Scots. A number of the most
distinguished men in the country were taken by the English, and executed by order of Edward as traitors;
but Robert Bruce escaped with his life, and took shelter, along with a few of his followers, in the Western
Isles. To complete the conquest of Scotland, Robert de Lathum, Nicholas de Leyburn, Will. Gentill, Alan
le Norreys, and John de Kirkeby, clerk, commissioners of array for the county of Lancaster, were ordered to
levy one thousand foot soldiers in this county, one hundred and fifty of them from the liberty of
Blackburnshire, and the remainder from the other parts of the county. This force, when collected, was
Ordered to advance in pursuit of Robert de Brus, into the marches of Scotland, where he was lurking. But
in the meantime the king, in the midst of all his glory, was seized with a mortal sickness at Carlisle, and
there he died.
One of the legacies left by Edward I. to his successor was the recently-subdued kingdom of Scotland;
and amongst the first acts of the new monarch, we find writs of military service (1307-8) addressed to
the sheriffs of the counties of Lancaster, Westmorland, Cumberland, and Northumberland, as well within
* According to Sir Edward Coke, the judges of trailbaston were
a sort of Justices in Eyre ; and it is said they had a baston or staff
delivered to them as the badge of their office; so that whoever was
brought before them was trailé ad baston, traditus ad baculum, ,
whereupon they had the name of justices de trail baston, or justiciarii
ad tradendum offendenţes ad baculum vel baston. Their office was
to make inquisition through the kingdom on all officers and others
touching extortion, bribery, and such like grievances; of intruders
into other men's lands, barretors, robbers, and breakers of the peace,
and divers other offenders; by means of which inquisitions, some
were punished with death, many by ransom, and the rest flying the
realm, the land was quieted, and the king gained riches towards the
support of his wars.-(Mat. Westm. anno 1305.) A commission of
trailbaston was granted to Roger de Gray and others, his associates,
in the reign of King Edward III.-Spelm,
CHAP. VII. The #istory of Lancashire. S3
their franchise as without, commanding them to assist the custos, John of Brittany, earl of Richmond, the
king's lieutenant in Scotland, with horses and arms, for the purpose of resisting the malice and insolence of
“Robertus de Brus,” and his accomplices. Summonses of a still more urgent nature were addressed in the
following year (1308-9) to “Willielmus de Acre,” “Mattheus de Redeman,” and the sheriff of the county of
Lancaster, urging them to assemble together, with the men of the county, as well horse as foot, and to take
order for the defence of the Scotch marches, under the command of “Gilbertus de Clare,” earl of Gloucester
and Hereford.
The pay of the forces was made with so much irregularity as to disincline the conscripts to the service ;
but in 1310, a commission of array was addressed to “Robertus de Leyburne’ and “Mattheus de Redman,”
along with the sheriff of the county, Ordering that three hundred foot soldiers should be “elected,” to muster
on the feast of the Nativity of the Virgin at Berwick-upon-Tweed, and from thence to march against the
Scots; their wages to be paid to them by the sheriff, from the day that they marched from the county of
Lancaster, until their arrival at the place of muster.
The war with the Scots, so long protracted, was now drawing to a crisis. Edward II. had placed
himself at the head of the English army, and the commissioners of array called upon the inhabitants of
Lancashire for a fresh levy of five hundred men, while Yorkshire was required to contribute four thousand,
Derbyshire one thousand, Nottinghamshire one thousand, Northumberland two thousand five hundred, and
the other counties in a similar proportion, regulated, no doubt, in some degree, by their wealth and population.
After due preparation, the two armies met at Bannockburn (June 25, 1314). At first the event of the
conquest seemed dubious, but the English having got involved amongst a number of covered pits prepared by
Bruce for their reception, their forces fell into disorder; and the disasters of years, suffered by the Scots
during the reign of the first Edward, were retrieved in a single day. The throne of Scotland was
re-established by this remarkable victory, Robert Bruce reaped the reward of his valour in the loyalty and
affection of his people, and Edward returned to London to coerce his refractory barons, who appeared as
little disposed to submit to his sway as were the people he had so lately left in the north.
The description given of the state of the county of Lancaster, as well as of other parts of the country,
at this period, in the royal proclamations, serves to show to what an extent insubordination and lawless
Outrage were carried. According to these documents, malefactors of all classes, as well knights as others,
were accustomed to assemble unlawfully by day and by night, in large bodies, and to commit assaults, and
even murders, with impunity. To put an end to these excesses, commissioners were appointed in Lancashire,
under the designation of conservators of the peace ; and as a healing measure, a letter of credence was issued
by the government to “Nigellus Owhanlam,” chief of escheats, requiring him to obtain full faith for
“Edmundus le Botiller,” justiciar; “Ricardus de Beresford,” chancellor; and “Magister Walterus de Jeslep,”
treasurer of Ireland, who were empowered to explain to the principal inhabitants certain matters relating to
the king and the kingdom. Similar letters were also addressed to “Walterus de Lacy,” “Hugo de Lacy,”
“Thomas Botiller,” and others, whose influence was necessary to maintain the public peace, under the com-
bined pressure of war and of famine, with both of which the county was at that time afflicted. The tide of
invasion seemed now about to pour from the north to the south, and, instead of the levies being raised to
march into Scotland, a commission was appointed, whereby “Johannes de Maubray ” was empowered to raise
all the able-bodied men in Lancashire, between the ages of sixteen and sixty, for the purpose of resisting the
Scots, in case they should invade this kingdom. Shortly after the institution of this commission, a command
was issued to “Thomas,” earl of Lancastre, and to one hundred and twenty-eight other individuals, usually
considered barons, or tenants in capite, ordering them to appear at Newcastle, prepared with horses and arms,
to proceed against “Robertus de Brus.” In the same year (1316–17), a writ of summons was addressed to
Thomas earl of Lancastre, and twelve other barons, convening them to meet at Nottingham, to hold a collo-
quium, to deliberate upon matters of state with the pope's legate.
The state of society in Lancashire at this juncture called loudly for the appointment and intervention of
conservators of the public peace. A species of civil war existed in the heart of the county. Adam de
Banistre, of the house and family of Thomas earl of Lancaster, in order to ingratiate himself with the king,
and to avert the consequences of his own crimes, invaded the lands of the earl. Having erected the
royal standard between the Ribble and the Mersey, in opposition to his feudal lord, he declared that the
earl wished to control the king in the choice of his ministers, which he disapproved; and numbers of others,
friends to high prerogative, embarked in his cause. Having entered the earl's castles, they supplied them-
selves with money and arms, which had been deposited there for the use of the soldiers who were appointed
to march against the Scots. In this way about eight hundred armed men were collected, when the earl,
hearing of the hostile enterprise, immediately ordered his knights and vassals into the field. This force did
not exceed six hundred men ; but they marched without delay against the insurgents, and, having come up
with them in the neighbourhood of Preston, they divided themselves into two bodies. The force under De
Banistre did not wait to be attacked, but fell furiously upon the first division of the earl's men, which began
to give way, when, the second division coming up, the fortune of the day was changed, and Adam and his
84 (Liſt fligtorg of 3Lancashire. CHAP. VII.
followers took to flight, many of them having been killed by wounds in their back, received in their precipi-
tate retreat. For some time De Banistre, their leader, concealed himself in his barn; but being closely beset
by his enemies, and abandoning all hope of escape, he took courage from despair, and boldly opposed himself
to his foes, of whom he killed several, and desperately wounded many others; at length, finding it impossible
to take him alive, his assailants slew him, and having cut off his head, presented it to the earl as a trophy.
According to an ancient indictment, the battle between Adam de Banistre and his adherents, and the
adherents of the earl of Lancaster, took place near Preston, in the valley of the Ribble ; and the victors so
far forgot their duty to their lord, and their allegiance to the king, that they entered the hundred of Leyland,
and robbed and despoiled various of the inhabitants of property to the amount of five thousand pounds—an
immense sum in the fourteenth century, when, as we have seen, a bushel of wheat sold for ninepence, and
the yearly value of good arable land did not exceed sixpence per acre. *
The necessities of the state still continued urgent, and a commission of array was issued, for levying the
following bodies of foot soldiers in the north –In Lancashire, 1000; Cumberland, 1000; Northumberland,
2000; Westmorland, 1000; Yorkshire, 10,000—or for five counties, 15,000 men. To support these enor-
mous levies, it became necessary to resort to extraordinary means, and writs were addressed to the mayors of
Lancaster, Preston, and Wigan, as well as to all the other principal towns in the kingdom, Soliciting them to
send the king as much money as they could possibly afford, to carry on the almost interminable war with
Scotland. This corporate contribution was independent of the collection of the eighteenths, which was
proceeding along with it contemporaneously; for we find in the records a writ, addressed to the collectors
and assessors of the rates, directing them to stay the collection in Lancashire, as to those persons who
had their property destroyed from the invasion of the Scots, but specifically providing that they alone
should be exempted. The levy for the scutage, in respect of the general summons of the array against the
Scots, was also continued, and fixed at the rate of two marks (£1 : 6:8) for each shield or knight's fee in
Lancashire.
In the turbulent and disastrous reign of the second Edward, the invasion of the enemy from without was
aggravated by the wars of the barons directed against the royal favourites within the kingdom. We have
already seen, in that department of our history of Lancashire which relates to its ancient barons, that Thomas
earl of Lancaster, after having headed the barons against Piers Gaveston, made a further attempt, by force of
arms, to remove the De Spencers from the royal councils. While this war was pending, a commission was
issued (in 1321) to arrest and take “Thomas” earl of Lancaster, and ten others, his principal associates in
rebellion; and a writ was at the same time addressed by the king to the sheriffs of Nottingham and Derby,
commanding them to raise the “hue-and-cry” against the earls of Lancaster and Hereford, and other rebels,
their adherents, and to bring them to condign punishment. The fatal battle of Boroughbridge (1322)
surrendered the earl of Lancaster and his followers into the king's possession ; and the hand of the
executioner, with the delinquent’s face turned to Scotland, to indicate that he was in league with the Scotch
rebels, terminated his career, without allaying the general discontent.
Although it does not appear that the county of Lancaster was the actual scene of any of the conflicts
between the barons and the king's forces, yet levies of troops were called for in the county, to aid the earl's
enterprise; and, in a memorandum of the delivery of the prisoners confined in the king's marshalsea, and in
the castle of York, some of whom had been taken in arms against the king, and others had surrendered at
discretion, in all about two hundred principal men, it is stated, that “Nicholas de Longford,” of the county
of Lancaster, was fined two hundred marks (£133: 6:8), and that “Ricardus de Pontefracte,” “Robertus de
Holand,” “Johannes de Holand,” and “Ricardus de Holand,” found security for their good behaviour. There
is also preserved an ancient inquisition, taken at Wigan, of which the following is a copy, tending still further
to show that neither the laity nor the clergy of the county of Lancaster were indifferent spectators of the
contest by which the kingdom was at that time agitated:—
Rot, plac. coram Aſ.”
R. Mich. ( INQUISITION taken before the king at Wigan, in the county of Lancaster,
º º # [1323] in his presence, and at his command.
WEST DERBy.—The jurors of the Wapentake present that “Gilbertus de Sutheworth,” 15 Ed. II. [1321], sent two men-at-arms,
at his own expense, to help the earl of Lancaster against the King—viz. “Johannes filius Robertile Taillour de Wynequik,” and
“Ricardus de Plumpton,” and that he also abetted many other persons in aiding the earl against the king. The said “Gilbertus,”
being in court, puts himself upon the country, and is acquitted by the jury.
The jurors present that “Robertus de Cliderhou,” parson of the Church of Wygan, who for thirty years was a clerk of the
Chancery, and afterwards Escheator “citra Trentam,” has committed the following offences —That he sent two men-at-arms, well
armed,—viz. “Adam de Cliderhou,” his son, and “Johannes fil. Johannis de Knolle,” to assist the earl of Lancaster against the
Ring, and with them four able-bodied foot soldiers, armed with swords, daggers, bows and arrows. That on a certain high festival,
he preached to his parishioners and others, in his Church at Wygan, before all the people, telling them that they were the liege men
of the earl, and bound to assist him against the king, the cause of the earl being just, and that of the king unjust. By means of
which harangues, many persons were incited to turn against the king, who otherwise would not have done so. And the said
“Robertus,” being present in Court, and arraigned, says, that on a certain feast-day, when preaching in his Church, he exhorted
his parishioners to pray for the king, and for the peace of the kingdom, and for the earls and barons of the land; and he denies
sending any men-at-arms or foot soldiers; and he puts himself upon the country, he is found guilty by the Jury of the offences
CHAP. VII. (The 39tgtorg of 3Lancašijire. 85
charged in the indictment, and is committed to prison. Afterwards, thirteen Manucaptors undertake to produce him on Monday
after the Octaves of St. Martin, under the penalty of 1000 marks, and they also undertake to answer for any fine, etc. On which
day, the said “Robertus” appears in court, and submits to a fine of £200.
Though a truce had been concluded between England and Scotland, the war was continued with little
intermission; and in a commission for raising fresh levies in this and the other counties (1322), it is said,
that, after the conclusion of the truce, the Scots had invaded the kingdom, and that Thomas, late earl of
Lancaster, and his adherents (“whose malice was now quelled,”), had entered into treasonable conspiracy
with them. The commissioners of array for the county of Lancaster, under the commission, were, “Richard
de Hoghton,” “Johan Travers,” and “Thomas de Lathum,” to whom the duty was confided of arming the
forces of the county and marching them to their destination.
The disorders of the times had filled the prisons of Lancashire with inmates, and writs were addressed
from Kirkham, to the constables of the castles of Liverpool, Hornby, and Clitheroe (but not of Lancaster),
directing them to keep the prisoners in their respective castles in Safe custody. At the same time a com-
mission was issued, under the royal Seal, whereby Johannes de Weston jun., marshal of the household, was
empowered to pursue, arrest, and take “Willielmus de Bradshagh’’ and “Ricardus de Holland,” the leaders
of disorderly bodies of armed men, who committed great depredations in the county of Lancaster. This
Willielmus de Bradshagh soon after appears to have been restored to the royal favour; for in the following
year we find a writ addressed to him, stating, that the king has ordained, that “Johan,” earl of Warrenne,
and others, shall proceed to Lancashire with an armed force, for its protection (against the Scotch invaders,
no doubt), and that “Bradshagh’’ shall be one of the commissioners of public protection. The return of the
sheriff to a writ issued for that purpose, serves to show that the great landed proprietors were, at the early
part of the fourteenth century, very few in number: it is as follows:—“In Lancashire, 13 Knights and 51
Men-at-arms. All the above hold lands to the amount of £15 per annum.” According to a presentment
made in the hundred of West Derby, it would appear that the sheriffs, in those days, were often remiss in
their duty, and that “Willielmus de Gentil,” and “Henricus de Malton,” his predecessor in office, suffered
certain notorious thieves to be set at liberty upon manucaption, though their crimes were not mainpernable
according to the law ; and that, owing to the laxity of their administration of the law, several persons in the
wapentake avoided making presentment of other notorious thieves, to the injury of the peace, and the danger
of the property of their honest and well-disposed neighbours. Nor was this all; they returned certain
persons as jurors, and on inquests, without giving them warning; and “Gentil' So far presumed upon his
office, as to arrogate to himself the election of knights of the shire; “whereas,” as the instrument charging
him with these manifold delinquencies very properly observes, “they ought to have been elected by the
county.”
The intrigues of the barons were still actively at work against the king and the royal favourites, the De
Spencers; and Henry, earl of Lancaster, the brother and heir of Earl Thomas, entered into that conspiracy
by which Edward was dethroned. The ill fortune of this weak monarch having precipitated him from a
throne to a prison, the earl of Lancaster became his gaoler in the castle of Kenilworth. The mildness and
humanity of the earl's character ill suited him for this office, which he was ordered by Mortimer, the gallant
of the perfidious queen, to surrender into the hands of Mautravers and Gournay; under whose direction, if not
actually by their hands, the wretched Edward, after having been exposed to every possible insult and priv-
ation, was thrown upon a bed, and a red-hot iron having been forced up his body, he was consigned to death,
under agonies so excruciating that his shrieks proclaimed the atrocious deed to all the guards of the castle.
One of the first acts of Edward III. was to reverse the attainder of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, and to
place his brother Henry in possession of the princely inheritance of that illustrious house.
But here we must pause, to take a survey of the landed property of the county of Lancaster, and the
tenures by which it was held in the early part of the fourteenth century, as deduced in the “TESTA DE
NEVILL.” Of this book it is said, in the Records published by his Majesty's commissioners, that
“In the king's remembrancer's office of the court of exchequer, are preserved two ancient books, called the Testa de Nevill, or
Liber Feodorum, which contain principally an account—
“1st. Of fees holden either immediately of the king, or of others who held of the king in capite.
“2d. Of serjeanties holden of the king.
“3d. Of widows and heiresses of tenants in capite, whose marriages were in the gift of the king.
“4th. Of churches in the gift of the king, and in whose hands they were.
“5th. Of escheats, as well of the lands of Normans as others, in whose hands the same were.
“6th. Of thanage, forestry, and other peculiar services and tenures.
“The entries specifically entitled Testa de Nevill form comparatively a very small part of the whole. A part of a roll, bearing
that name, is extant in the chapter-house at Westminster, consisting of five Small membranes, containing ten counties, of which
Lancashire is one. The roll appears to be of the age of Edward I., and these books to have been compiled near the close of the reign
of Edward II., or the commencement of that of Edward III., partly from inquests on presentments, and partly from inquisitions on
writs to sheriffs.”
The following is a tolerably copious extract and analysis of the contents of the Testa de Neville, so far
as relates to the county of Lancaster, which may answer any popular purpose. The full entries are cited in
the various local histories. -
86
CHAP. VII.
The history of Lancashire.
1. FEES HELD IN CHIE OF THE KING, ETC.
“Agnes de Clopwayt in Blothelay, Alex. de Kyrkeby, Orm de
Relet, Henr. de Waleton, in Waleton, Adam Girard, Luke P'oitus
de Dereby, in Dereby, Adam de Helmelesdal in Crosseby, Quenilda
de Kirkdale, in Forneby, Robert Banastr, Robert de Clyton, in
Leyland Hundred, Alward de Aldholm in Vernet, Hug. le Norrays,
in Blakerode, Edwin Carpentar in Kadewaldesir, Rich. de Hilton
in Salford Hundred, Alan de Singleton, in Blackburn Hundred, and
Amoundernesse, Rich, Fitz Ralph in Singleton, John de Oxeclive,
in Oxcumbe, Roger Carpentar in Lancaster, Robert Scertune in
Sutherton, Ra. Barun, John Oxeclive in Oxeclive, Robert, the constable
of Hofferton, in Hofferton, Adam Fitz Gilemichel in Scline, Rog.
Carpentar in Lancaster, Rob. Son of Roger de Shertnay, in Skerton,
Rad. Balrun in Balrum, W. Gardinar in Lancaster, Walter Smith
in Hefeld, Rog. Gernet in Halton, Wiman Gernet in Heschin,
Will. & Benedict, sons of Walter de Gersingham, in Gressingham,
Margery, widow of Barnard Fitz Barnard, in Gressingham.
“The Earl of Ferrars, in the wapentake of Derby (and he has
Sub-tenants), Almaric Butler, who has the following sub-tenants—
Henry de Tyldesley in Tyldesley, Gilb. de Kulchet in Culcheth,
Alan de Rixton in Rixton and Astley, Will. de Aderton in
Atherton, Robt. de Mamelisbury in Sonky, Roger de Sonky in
Penketh, Earl de Ferrars in Hole Hulesale and Wyndul, Will. de
Waleton & Will. de Lydyathé in Lydiate & Hekergart, Rich.
Blundea in Hyms and Barton, Ad. de Molynous & Robt. Fitz Robt.
in Thorinton ; the heir of Robert Banaster in Makerfeld, Waleton,
& Blakeburnshire, and has sub-tenants; Will. de Lanton and Rich.
de Golborn in Langton, Keman, & Herbury ; the Earl of Lincoln
(Randolph Earl of Chester) in Appleton and Cronton, of the Earl
*Ferrars' fee; of the same fee are, Will. de Rerisbury in Sutton &
Eccleston, Robt. de Lathum in Knowsley, Huyton, and Torbock,
Ad. de Molyneus in Little Crossby, Robt. de Rokeport, Rog. Gernet
and Thom de Bethum in Kyrkeby, Sim. de Halsale in Maghul,
Will. de Waleton in Kirkdale, Will. le Koudre and the heir of
Rob. de Meols, in North Meols, Thom. de Bethum and Robt. de
Stokeport in Raven Meols.
“Waren de Waleton in Waleton, Ric, Banastre, Walt. de Hole,
|Ric. de Thorp, Will. de Brexin, Thom de Gerstan, Sim. del Pul in
Bretherton, Robt. de Cleyton in Clayton & Penwortham, the abbot
of Cokersand in Hoton, Robt. Russel in Langton, Leyland, &
Eccleston, Robt. Banastre's heir in Shevington, Charnock, and
Welsh Whittle.
“John Punchardun in Little Mitton, Ad. de Blakeburn & Roger
de Archis in Wisewall and Hapton, Henr. Gedleng in Tunley,
Caldcoats, & ‘Sn. Odiswrth,’ [Snodiswrth], Ad. de Preston in
Extwistle, Ra. de Mitton in Altham, Mearley, & Livesay, Robt. de
Cestr' in Downham, John de Grigleston in Kokerig, Will. Marshall
in Little Mearley, Gilb. Fitz Henry in Rushton, Hugo Fitun in
Harewood, Thos. de Bethum in Warton, Will. Deps' in Prees &
Newton ; Ric. de Frekelton in Frekelton, Quintinghay, Newton, &
Eccleston, Gilb. de Moels, Rog. de Nettelag & Will. de Pul in
Frekelton, Alan de Singilton & Iwan de Frekelton in Frekelton,
Waren de Quitinghay & Robt. de Rutton in Quitinghay, Alan de
Singilton in Quitinghay, Newton, & Elswick, Warin de Wytingham
in Elswick—The heir of Theobald Walter in Wytheton & Trevele,
John de Thornul, Will. de Prees, Rog. de Notesage, Ad. de Brete-
kirke, Will. de Kyrkeym, Robt. Fitz Thomas & Will. Fitz William
in Thistledon, Prees, & Greenhalgh. Will. de Merton in Marton ;
Rog. Gernet, Thos. de Bethum, and Robt. Stokeport in Bustard
Rising. -
“Adam de Bury in Bury, Robt. de Midelton in Middleton, Gilb.
de Warton in Atherton, the heir of Rich. Hilton in Pendleton ;
Thomas de Gretley's tenants; Gilbert Barton in Barton, Matthew
Haversage in Withington, Robt. de Lathum in Childwall, Parbold,
and Wrightington, Rich. le Pierpoint in Rumworth, Will. de
Worthinton in Worthington, Rog. de Pilkinton in Pilkington, Thos.
le Grettley in Lindeshey, in the honor of Lancaster.
“Will. de Lancaster in Ulverston, Matthew de Redeman & Robt.
de Kymers in Yeland, Lambert de Muleton in Routheclive, Rog.
Gernet in Little Farleton, Robt. de Stokeport in Gt. Farlton, Ad
de Eccliston, Will. de Molineus, Hug. de Mitton, Ric. de Katherale,
Hen. de Longeford in Eccleston, Leyrebreck, and Catterall, Ad.
de Werninton in Wennington, Hug. de Morwyc in Farleton &
Cansfield, Henr. de Melling in Melling, Rich. de Bikerstat in
Helmes & Stotfaldechage ; Adam Fitz Richard in Bold & Lawerke,
Rich. Fitz Martin in Ditton, Rich. Fitz Thurstan in Thingwall,
Thos. de Bethum in Bootle, Rich. de Frequelton in Thorp, Rog. de
Lacy, 5 knts, fees of the fee of Clithero, Walter Fitz Osbert, Will.
de Wynewyck, Peter de Stalum, Elya de Hoton, the heir of Rog.
de Hoton, Alan Fitz Richard & John de Billesburgh, tenants of the
king, but no place mentioned; Will. de Nevilla in Kaskenemor
Marferth de Hulton in Pendleton, Roger de Midleton in Chetham,
Edwin Carpentar in Cadwalesate, Ada de Prestwych in Prestwych &
Failesworth, Hugh de Blakerode, by charter in Blakerode, Elias de
Penilbury in Pendlebury and Chadderton, Robt. de Clifton in Clifton,
Gospatric de Cherleton in Chorleton, Henry de Chetham in Chetham,
Will. de Bothelton, Gilbt. de Tonge in Tonge, Randle Fitz Roger,
Rich. de Edburgham, the Abbot of Furness in Furness, Ad. Fitz
Orm in Middleton, Walt. de Parles in Pulton, Will. de Hest in
Middleton, the Prior of Lancaster in Newton and Aldcliff, the
Burgesses of Lanc. in Lancaster, & Nich. de Verdon in Kirkby.]
2. SERJEANTIES HOLDEN OF THE KING.
“Orm de Kellet in Kellet, Rich. de Hulton, Wapentake of
Salford, Roger Carpentar in Lancaster, Roger Gernet in Fishwick,
Lonesdale, & Wapent of Derby, Alan de Singleton, Will. de Newton;
Ad. Fitz Orm in Kellet, Thos. Gernet in Hesham, John de Oxeclive
in Oxcliffe, Robt. de Overton in Overton, Rog. de Skerton, Rog.
Blundus in Lancaster, le Gardiner in Lancaster, Rad. de Bollern in
Bolrun, Thos. Fitz Ada in Gersingham, Will. & Benedict in Ger-
Singham, Margery, widow of Bernard Fitz Bernard; Walter Under-
water holds Milneflet. Ad, Fitz Richard, in Singleton, by serjeanty
of Amounderness, ‘Willoch’ & Neuton’ in Newton, Ad. de Kelleth,
son of Orm, in Kellet, Henr. de Waleton in Walton, Wavertree &
Newsham's, Edwin Carpentar in Cadwalslete, Hamo de Macy &
Hugo de Stotford in Scotforth, Rog. White & Gilbert Fitz Matthew
in Lancaster, Will. Fitz Dolfin & Will. Fitz Gilbert in Gersingham.
The places are not mentioned after the following names —Henry
Fitz Siward, Robt. de Middleton, Rich. Fitz Henry, Gilbt. de Croft,
Hugo de Croft, Robt. the reeve, Adam de Relloc, & Rog. Fitz
John ; Roger Gernet in Halton, Rog. le Clerk in Fishwick, Balde-
win de Preston in Fishwick, John Fitz John in Fishwick, Alan and
Rich. de la More in Fishwick, Rog. Fitz Viman in Hesham, Thomas
Gernet in Hesham, John de Toroldesholm in Torrisholme, Adam
Gerold in Derby, Ad. de Moldhall in Crosby, Robert de Curton in
Querton, Rog. de Assart in Fishwick, Will. Wachet in Fishwick,
Will. & Agnes de Ferrars, Salford, Clayton, and Newshams, Gervas
Fitz Simon in Oxcliffe, Abbot of Cockersand in Bolrun, Brothers of
St. Leonard at York in Bolrun, the widow Christiana de Gersingham,
Robt. & Will. de Bolrun, the Prior of Lancaster, Will. le Gardiner
& Adam Gernet in Bolrun, Rog. Fitz William, Will. Fitz Thomas,
Will. & Matilda de Parles in Torrisholme.
3. WIDOWS AND HEIRESSES OF TENANTS IN CAPITE, WHOSE
MARRIAGES WERE IN THE GIFT OF THE KING.2
“Alicia dr. of Galfr. de Gersingham, Christiana dr. of same Alicia
& Thomas de Gersingham, Lady Elewisa de Stutevill, Oliva wid. of
Rog. de Montbegon, Quenilda wid. Rich. Walens. Margaret wid.
Ad. de Gerstan, Waltania wid. Rich. Bold, Beatrix de Milton,
Quenilda wid. Rog. Gernet, Matilda de Thorneton, Avicia wid.
Henr. de Stotford, Avicia wid. Rog. de Midelton, Eugenia wid.
Will. de Routhclive, Eva de Halt, Matilda dr. Nicholas de Tho-
roldeholm, Alicia the wid, of Nicholas, Emma the wid. of Nicholas,
Sarra de Bothelton, Alicia wid. Rich. Fitz Robert, Cecilia wid.
Turstan Banastr, Quenilda dr. Richd. Fitz Roger, Matilda de
Stokeport, Lady Ada de Furneys; wid, of Gamell de Boelton,
Matilda de Kellet, Agnes de Hesham, widow of Hugo de Oxeclive,
wid. Will. Gernet. - -
* The “Testa de Nevill” mentions several tenants-in-chief, whose
lands, though held of the honor, are not in the county of Lancaster,
and which are omitted here.
* If the land-holder left only daughters, the king had the profits
of relief and wardship ; and had also, if they were under the age
of fourteen, the right of disposing of them in marriage. This
power was said to be vested in the king, in order to prevent the
heiresses that were his tenants from marrying persons that were of
doubtful affection to him, or that were incapable and unfit to do
the services belonging to the land. He had also a power of dispos-
ing of his male wards in marriage, whose parents had died when
they were under twenty-One, though without such good reasons for
it. But this power of disposing of wards of either sex in marriage,
as well as the right of wardships, was afterwards very much abused,
and was therefore taken away by the statute of 12 Car. II. (1660),
together with the tenure itself by military, or (as it was usually
called) knight's service.
CHAP. VII.
87
The #istory ºf lancashire.
4. CHURCHES IN THE GIFT OF THE KING, ETC.
“Lancaster; earl Roger de Poictou gave it to the Abbot of Sees.
“Preston; King John gave it to Peter Rossinol, who died, and the
present King Henry gave it to Henry nephew of the Bishop of
Winton. Worth 50 marks per an.
“St. Michael upon Wyre; the son of Count de Salvata had it by
gift of the present King, and he says, that he is elected into a
bishoprick, and that the church is vacant, and worth 30 marks
7007” (!!?!, -
{ % Kºm ; King John gave 2 parts of it to Simon Blundon, on
account of his custody of the son and heir of Theobald Walter.
Worth 80 marks. -
5. ESCHEATS OF THE LANDS OF NORMANS AND OTHERS.
“Merton, Aston, “Henry de Nesketon holds of the king's escheats
in the counties of Warwick & Leicester, Nottingham and Derby,
Lancashire, Cumberland, Westmorland, and Northumberland.’
Fourteen bovates of land in Haskesmores, which Willm. de Nevill
held as escheats of our lord the king.
“Hugo le Norreys holds a carucate of land in Blakerode, which
is an escheat of the king, to whom he pays a yearly rent of 20s.
6. THANAGE, 1 FORESTRY, AND OTHER PECULLAR SERVICES AND
TENURES.
“Thomas & Alicia de Gersingham, by keeping the king's hawks
in Lonsdale ; Luke, the constable of Derby, by being constable and
keeping the cattle ; Adam de Hemelesdale, by constabulary at
Crosby ; Quenilda de Kirkdale, by conducting royal treasure ;
Richd. Fitz Ralph, by constabulary of Singleton ; John de Oxeclive,
by being carpenter in Lancaster castle; Adam Fitz Gilmighel, by
being the king's carpenter; Roger Carpentar, by being carpenter in
Lancaster castle; Rad. Barun, by being mason in Lancaster castle;
Rad. Balrun, the same ; Wm. Gardener, by finding pot-herbs and
leeks for the castle; Walter, son of Walter Smith, by forging iron
for carts ; Roger Gernet, by being chief forester; Willm. Gernet,
by the service of meeting the king on the borders of the country
with his horn and white rod, and conducting him into and out of
the county; he holds 2 carucates of land in Heskin; Willm. &
Benedict de Gersingham, by forestry and by keeping an aery of
hawks for the king; Gilbert Fitz Orm, by paying annually 3d., or
Some spurs to Benedict Germett, the heir of Roger de Heton, in
thanage ; Heir of Robt. Fitz Barnard, in thanage; Rog. de Ley-
cester, by paying 8s. & 2 arrows yearly ; Adam Fitz Rice & Alan
Fitz Hagemund, in drengage ; Richd. de Gerard, in drengage;
Gillemuth de Halitton, in drengage ; Adam de Glothie, Will. de
Nevilla, Reyner de Wambwalle, Gilbert de Notton, Rog. de Midelton,
Alex. de Pikington, Will. de Radeclive, Adam de Prestwich, Elias
de Penilbury, Will, and Rog. Fitz William, Henr. de Chetham,
Alured de Ives, Thomas de Burmul, Adam de Pemberton, Adam de
Rulling, Gilbert de Croft, Gilbert de Kelleth, Matilda de Kelleth,
Thos. Gerneth, William de Hest, and William, son of Rich. de
Tatham, all in thanage ; John de Thoroldesholm, by lardenery;
Rog. de Skerton, by provostry; Robt. de Oveston, by provostry;
Rog. White and Edward Carpenter, by carpentry; Gilbert Fitz
Matthew, by gardenery ; Rad, de Bolran, by masonry; the burgesses
of Lancaster, in free-burgage and by royal charter; the prior and
monks of Seaton, by royal charter ; Thomas Fitz Adam, Will. Fitz
Dolfin, & Willm. Fitz Gilbert, by forestry; Henr. de Waleton, by
being head serjeant or bailiff of the hundred of Derbyshire; Galfr.
Balistrar', by presenting two cross-bows to the king; the serjeanty
of Hetham, which Roger Fitz Vivian holds, by blowing the horn
before the king at his entrance and exit from the county of Lan-
caster; Thomas Gernet, in Hesham, by sounding the horn on meet-
ing the king on his arrival in those parts.”
In addition to these peculiar services and tenures of the feudal times, many of which sound strangely in
modern ears, several religious houses are enumerated which held in pure frank alms; and a still larger number
of persons who held by donation, in consideration of annual rents, as will be seen on reference to the “TESTA
DE NEVILL.”
1 THANAGE SERVICE.--—Thane, from the Saxon thenian, minis-
trare, was the title of those who attended the Saxon kings in their
courts, and who held their lands immediately of those kings; and
therefore they were promiscuously called thani et Servientes regis,
though, not long after the Conquest, the word was disused; and
instead thereof, those men were called Barones Regis, who, as to
their dignity, were inferior to earls, and took place after bishops,
abbots, barons, and knights. There were also thani minores, and
these were likewise called barons: these were lords of manors, who
had a particular jurisdiction within their limits, and over their own
tenants in their own courts, which to this day are called Courts
Baron ; but the word signifies sometimes a nobleman, sometimes a
freeman, sometimes a magistrate, but, more properly an officer or
minister of the king. “Edward King grete mine Biscops, and
Imine Earles, and all mine Thynes, on that shiren, wher mine Prestes
in Paulus Minister habband land.”—(Chart. Edw. Conf. Pat. 18 H.
VI. m. 9, per Inspect.) In an Anglo-Saxon writ of William the
First, quoted by Spelman from an Abbotsbury MS., the term
Thegend occurs in the same sense. In thanage of the king, signified
a certain part of the king's lands or property, whereof the ruler or
governor was called thane.—(Cowell.) In the early periods of the
history of this country, the payments of the thanes were made
regularly into the public treasury by the sheriffs, distinctly in the
name of this class; hence we find, that in 13 Henry III. (1229) the
thanes of the county of Lancaster, through the sheriff, paid a
composition of fifty marks (£33: 6:8), to be excused from the
tailliage or assessment which the king, in the exercise of his
absolute authority, had imposed upon his people.—(Mag. Rot. 13
Hen. III. titulo Lancastr.) The same sheriff (Wm. de Vesci)
rendered an account of fourscore and sixteen pounds (£96) of the
gift of the knights and thanes.—(Mag. Rot. 5 Hen. II. Rot. 2, b.
Tit. Northumberland. Nova Placita & Wovae Conventiomes.) In 3
John (1201) the “Theigni and fermarii” of the honor of Lancaster
had paid a composition of fifty marks to be exonerated from
crossing the sea.—(Mag. Rot, 3 John, Rot. 20, d.)
8S Qſìjr ibistory of 3Lancashire. CHAP. VIII.
CHAPTER VIII.
Representative History of the County of Lancaster–First Members for the County of Lancaster, and for its Boroughs—
First Parliamentary Return and first Parliamentary Writ of Summons for Lancashire extant—Members returned
for the County of Lancaster in the Reigns of Edward I. to Edward IV—Returns lost from 17 Edward IV. to 33
Henry VIII.-County Members from 1 Edward VI. to 30 Victoria—The ancient Lancashire Boroughs,
consisting of Lancaster, Preston, Liverpool, and Wigan, resume the Elective Franchise 1 Edward VI-Newton
and Clitheroe added to the Boroughs of Lancashire—Representation of Lancashire during the Commonwealth—
List of Knights of the Shire for the County of Lancaster, from the Restoration to the Present Time–Alterations
--> made in the Representation of the County and Boroughs of Lancashire by the Reform Act of 1832—A.D.
1295 to 1867. - -
gº E have now arrived at that period when the representative system began to prevail in the
\º/\*) will in that assembly, in order to promote the interest of the great community for which it
f ſº, iſ: jº legislates. None of the English counties presents a more interesting representative history
sº than the county of Lancaster; and yet this subject has hitherto been either entirely neglected,
or has been treated in so vague and desultory a manner as to have neither uniformity nor connection. To
supply this deficiency, much labour has been required in examining and collating the public records; but that
labour has been amply rewarded by the mass of facts which these documents contain, from the fountain-head
of authentic information. - - * -
So early as the Saxon heptarchy, a species of parliament existed, as we have already seen, under the
designation of the Witena-Gemot, or “Council of Wise Men,” by whom the laws were enacted. This assembly
consisted of the comites or earls, the hereditary representatives of counties, assisted by the prelates and abbots,
and the tenants in capite of the crown by knight's service. The disposition of such an assembly would
naturally incline them to Sanction the edicts of the sovereign ; and it is highly probable that his will generally
served as their law. After the Conquest, the first William, and his immediate descendants, called to their
“Great Council,” the Norman barons and the dignified clergy, with the military tenants. This council, or
“King's Court,” as it was called (the term Parliament not having then come into use), assembled three times
in the year—namely, at Christmas, Easter, and Whitsuntide. The barons and other tenants-in-chief of the
king, enumerated in Domesday Book, amount to about seven hundred. These persons possessed all the land
of England in baronies, except that part which the king reserved in his own hands, and which was called
“Terra Regis,” and has since been called the “ancient demesne” of the crown. These tenants-in-chief, per
baroniam, as well the few who held in socage as those who held by military service, composed the great
council, or parliament, in those times; and were summoned by the king, though they had a right to attend
without summons. The landowners of the second, third, and other inferior classes, being all tenants, or
vassals, of this upper class of landholders, though by free and honourable tenures, similar to those by which
their lords themselves held of the king, were bound by the decisions of their superior lords. The landed interest
alone was represented in the national councils; there were at that time no representatives, either of the
cities or boroughs, or of the trading interest, which were considered too insignificant to be represented in the
great council." The representation of such places was an innovation introduced in the early part of the
fourteenth century by Simon de Montfort and the reforming barons of his day. It is true that these barons
were actuated in some degree by ambitious motives, and that their conduct partook of the revolutionary
turbulence of the age in which they lived; but they were the legitimate descendants of those illustrious
patriots who wrung from King John the charter of British freedom. The reforms they introduced were parts
of the same system ; the one the natural effect of the other, and both flowing from that spirit of “popular
encroachment,” which does not, and which ought not, to rest, till its fair claims are satisfied. In this way
the dictation of the barons, and the discontents of the subordinate orders of society, were overcome ; and,
though in an age of comparative darkness, Edward I, the “Justinian of England,” whose sagacity enabled
him to mark the signs of the times, did not hesitate to declare in his writs to the sheriffs for the return of
burgesses to parliament, “that it was a most equitable rule, that that which concerns all should be approved
* Archæologia, vol. ii. p. 310.


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CHAP. VIII. 6. gºt #istory Df Hamrashire. 89
of by all.” By this temperate extension of the popular rights, the visionary projects of John Ball and Wat
Tyler, which soon after arose, were defeated; and the representative system of England has remained ever
since essentially unaltered, till an enlargement of the elective franchise was rendered necessary by the altered
state of society in commerce and in manufactures.
In the time of Henry III. abuses in the government had been suffered to accumulate, till, according to
the contemporary historians, “justice itself was banished from the realm; for the wicked devoured the
righteous, the courtier the rustic, the oppressor the innocent, the fraudulent the plain man, and yet all these
things remained unpunished. Evil counsellors whispered into the ears of the princes that they were not
amenable to the laws. The subject was oppressed in various ways, and, as if these sycophants had conspired
the death of the king, and the destruction of his throne, they encouraged him to disregard the devotion of
his people, and to incur their hatred rather than to enjoy their affection.” In addition to these grievances,
the kingdom was deeply involved in debt, and the king stood in need of fresh contributions to carry on his
wars, which the barons refused to grant till the public grievances were redressed. Overwhelmed with difficulties,
Henry issued his mandate for holding a parliament at Oxford. Of this parliament, so celebrated in history,
and particularly in the representative history of England, it is recorded that “the grandees of the realm,
major and minor, with horses and arms, were convened at Oxford, June 11, 1258, together with the clergy,
to make provision and reformation, and ordination of the realm ; and on their oath of fidelity were exhibited
the articles which in the said realm stood in need of correction.” This parliament, owing to the popular
excitation under which it was assembled, and to all the members coming dressed in armour, and mounted as
for battle, obtained the name of parliamentum insanum ; but there was a method in their madness, and one
of their first acts was to ordain that four knights should be chosen by each county, whose duty it should be
to inquire into the grievances of the people, in order that they might be redressed, and that they should be
returned to the next parliament, to give information as to the state of their respective counties, and to co-
operate in enacting such laws as might best conduce to the public good. Some approach had been made
towards this state of things in the time of King John, when the knights were appointed to meet in their
several counties, and to present a detail of the state of those counties to the great council; but here they
were not only to present their complaints, but, by being made a component part of the legislative body, they
were to contribute from their local knowledge to the removal of those wrongs which it was their duty to
resent.
p In this parliament at Oxford twenty-four persons were elected—twelve on the part of the king, and as
many on the part of the community—for the reformation of public abuses, and the amendment of the state of
the realm.
“On the part of the king— “On the part of the barons—
The lord bishop of London. The lord bishop of Worcester.
The lord (bishop) elect of Winton. Sir Simon, earl of Leicester.
Sir Henry, son of the king of Almaine. Sir Richard, earl of Gloucester.
Sir John, earl of Warrenne. Sir Humphrey, earl of Hereford.
Sir Guy de Lesignan. Sir Roger Mareschal.
Sir Wim. de Valence. Sir Roger de Mortimer.
Sir John, earl of Warwick. - Sir Geoffry Fitz-Geoffry.
Sir John Mansel. Sir Hugh le Bigot.
|Friar John de Derlington. Sir Richard le Grey.
The abbot of Westminster. . - Sir William Bardulf.
Sir Hugh de Wengham. Sir Peter de Montfort.
[The twelfth is wanting.] Sir Hugh Despenser.”
Amongst a variety of other decrees, the twenty-four enacted that the state of the holy church be
amended ; that a justiciar be appointed for one year, to be answerable to the king and his council during his
term of office ; that a treasurer of the exchequer be also appointed, to render account at the end of the year;
that the chancellor shall also answer for his trust ; that shire-reeves be provided in every county, trusty
persons, freeholders, and vavasors, of property and consequence in the county, who shall faithfully and
honestly treat the people of the county, and render their accounts to the exchequer once every year ; and
that neither they, nor their bailiffs, take any hire; that good escheators be appointed, and that they take
nothing from the goods of the deceased out of the lands which ought to be in the king's hands; that "the
exchange of London be amended, as well as all the other cities of the king, which had been brought to
disgrace and ruin by talliages, and other extortions; and that the household of the king and queen be
amended. - - -
Of the parliaments, they ordain:—
“That there be three parliaments in the year : the first, upon the octave of St. Michael (Oct. 6); the second, on the morrow of
Candlemas (Feb. 3); the third, June 1. . To these three parliaments shall come the counsellors-elect of the king, though they be not
commanded, to provide for the state of the realm, and to manage the common business of the realm, when there shall be need, by the
1 Ann. Burton, anno. 1258, p. 424. * Vavasors were persons who held lands by military tenure of other persons than the king.
N
90 Qſìje 39tstory of £antagjire.
CHAP. VIII.
command of the king.” “That the community do choose twelve prode men (“prud’hommes,” men of probity and prudence), who
shall go to the parliaments, and attend at other times when there shall be need, when the king or his council shall command, to
manage the business of the king, and of the realm ; and that the community hold for stable that which these twelve shall do ; and
this to spare the cost of the commons. Fifteen shall be named by the earl mareschal, the earl of Warwick, Hugh le Bigot, and
John Mansel, who are elected by the twenty-four, to name the aforesaid fifteen, who shall be of council of the king; and they shall
be confirmed by them, or by the greater part of them ; and they shall have power from the king to give them counsel in good faith
concerning the government of the realm, and all things belonging to the king and kingdom ; and to amend and redress all things
which they shall see want to be amended and redressed, and to be over the high justiciar, and over all other pérsons; and if they
cannot all be present, that which the greater part shall do shall be firm and stable.”
The unconstitutional power assumed, of choosing the responsible ministers of the crown—for in no other
light can the functions of these “twelve prode men” be considered—gradually fell into disuse, though the
time when that authority ceased is not very accurately defined in history. In November of the same year
(1258), after the dissolution of the memorable parliament of Oxford, writs were issued from the king's chan-
cery to the sheriffs of England, commanding them respectively to pay “reasonable wages” to the knights
delegate for their journey to parliament, upon the affairs touching their several counties. This is the first
known writ “de eagensis,” and it is of the same tenure as that of subsequent times, when it became essential to
parliament to have in it the representatives of the counties, chosen by the freeholders; but the writ for Lan-
cashire, issued on this occasion, is lost, and with it the names of the knights returned for the county.
The king and his courtiers, headed by his brothers, and countenanced by his son Edward, the heir-
apparent of the crown, resisted to blood the attempts made to reform the parliament, and to redress the
public grievances, accompanied, as these attempts were, with measures for subverting the royal prerogative,
and establishing an aristocratical oligarchy. The progress of reform in the constitution of parliament was not,
however, materially retarded by this resistance. It had always been the avowed intention of Simon de
Montfort, earl of Leicester, and Robert de Ferrers, earl of Derby, to confine the executive power within the
limits of the law, and to have all the acts of the king confirmed, as well by the representatives of the county
as by the barons spiritual and temporal;" and in the parliament of Worcester, called “Montfort's Parliament,”
held in 49 Henry III. (1265), it was enacted, that each sheriff throughout England should cause to be sent
to the parliament two knights (not four) elected by the freeholders, with two citizens from each of the cities,
and two burgesses from each of the boroughs throughout England. By these means the respective orders in
the state had an opportunity of expressing the public will; and in an assembly so constituted, and of which
the lords spiritual and temporal formed a part, the due consideration of the public good was effectually
secured.” It happened, however, that in these early parliaments the expense incurred by the communities of
the counties, cities, and boroughs, from the attendance of their members in parliament, was often considered
oppressive ; and hence we find that many poor boroughs, particularly in the county of Lancaster, had no
members, the reason alleged being that they were unable to pay their expenses, on account of their debility
and poverty. The boroughs for which returns were made were principally “walled towns,” held of the king
in ancient demesne ; and the only places in Lancashire entitled to the privilege, if that could be considered a
privilege which was felt as a public burden, were, Lancaster, Preston, Liverpool, and Wigan. The inha-
bitants of the boroughs, under the feudal system, were, for the most part, villeins, either in gross, or in relation
to the manor in which the town stood, and belonged to some lord.” The former held houses, called burgage
tenures, at the will of the lord, and carried on some trade, such as carpenter, Smith, butcher, baker, clothier
or tailor, and the election of members was in the inhabitants of the burgage tenures, so far as they were free
agents. There were also in these boroughs certain free inhabitants who held burgages, and were in conse-
quence invested with the elective franchise. In incorporated cities and boroughs, the right of election was
generally in the corporate body, or freemen as they were called, subject to such limitations, however, as the
charters imposed. When the wages of the members representing the cities or boroughs were paid out of the
rates, the election was in the inhabitant householders paying those rates, and the right of election was hence
designated “scot and lot suffrage.” In treating the subject of the county representation from the first return
to parliament made by the sheriff of Lancashire to the present time, the most clear and satisfactory mode
will be to take the reign of each of the early kings separately, and connect with the lists in each reign such
other historical matter as may be presented on the subject: and 1st.—Of the parliamentary history of the
reign of
EDWARD I.
Although the return of knights and burgesses summoned to parliament by writ commenced as early as
49 Henry III. (1265), no original return made by the sheriff for this county, or for its boroughs, is found in
* According to Selden, there were, in 1262, one hundred and fifty
temporal, and fifty spiritual barons, summoned to parliament to
perform the service due to their tenures.
* In former times both lords and commons sat together in one
Mouse in parliament, says Sir Edward Coke, in his 4th Institute, 23 ;
but this is clearly a mistake, as is shown by Sir Robert Cotton and
others, and as is decidedly proved by 6 Edward III. (1332), n. 3.
Parl. Rot., where it is said—“The bishops by themselves, the lords
|by themselves, and the commons by themselves, consulted, and
advised the king touching the war with Scotland.” In 17 Edward
III. (1343), the prelates and lords met in the Chambre Blanche,
and the commons in the Chambre Peynte ; and both afterwards
united in the Chambre Blanche.—Rot, Parl.
8 Archaeologia, vol. ii. p. 315.
* Prynne's Enlargement of his 4th Institute.
CELAP. VIII. (Iſiſt ºffigturn of £ancašijire. 91
any of the public records till 23 Edw. I. (A.D. 1295). The first return of members for this county is to the
parliament at Westminster, appointed to assemble on Sunday next after the feast of St. Martin (Nov. 12);
and it announces, that “Matthew de Redman,” and “John de Ewyas’ were elected knights for the county
of Lancaster, by the consent of the whole county, who have full and sufficient power to do for themselves,
and for the commonalty of the county aforesaid, what our lord the king shall ordain by his council.
“That the aforesaid Matthew was guaranteed to come on the day contained in the writ, by Thomas, son of Thomas de Yeland;
Thomas Fitz Hall; William Fitz Adam ; and William son of Dake” (in confirmation of which they affix +
their marks, theſimanucaptors or Sureties for the members not being able probably to write their own names). +
“And that the aforesaid John was guaranteed by John de Singleton, Richard de Grenel, Roger de Boulton, and Adam de Grene-
hulles.” The sheriff's return adds, “There is no city in the county of Lancaster.” It then proceeds to say “that Lambert le
Despenser and William le Dispenser, burgesses of Lancaster, are elected burgesses for the borough of Lancaster, in manner above
said. And the aforesaid Lambert is guaranteed by Adam de le Grene and John de Overton; and the aforesaid William is guaranteed
by Thomas Molendinar and Hugh le Barker.” That “William Fitz Paul and Adam Russel, burgesses of Preston, are elected for
the borough of Preston in Amounderness; and the aforesaid William is guaranteed to come as above by Richard Banaster and Richard
Pelle. And the aforesaid Adam is guaranteed by Henry Fitz Baldwin, and Robert Kegelpin.” That “William le Teinterer, and
Henry le Bocker, burgesses of Wigan, are elected for the borough of Wygan in the manner above said. And they are guaranteed to
come by John le Preston of Wygan, Adam de Cotiler, Roger Fitz Orme, and Richard Fitz Elys.” That “Adam Fitz Richard and
Robert Pinklowe, burgesses of Liverpool, are elected for the borough of Liverpool. And they are guaranteed to come, in the time
specified in the writ, by John de la More, Hugh de Molendino, William Fitz Richard, and Elias le Baxster.”
There is a copy of a writ and return, in 1294, for Cumberland, and amongst the persons returned for
that year are—Matthew de Redman” and Richard de Preston, as knights of the shire.
In the parliament of 1296, no original writ for Lancashire appears, nor is there any enrolment of writs
de expensis for this county on the rolls.
The first parliamentary writ extant, addressed to the sheriff of Lancashire, is of the date of 25 Edward I.
(15th Sept. 1297) in the Tower of London, and requires that knights only (not citizens and burgesses) shall
be sent from this county to parliament, for the confirmation of Magna Charta, and the Charter of Forests.
This writ, which is of the nature of a bargain between the king and his people, recites that, in relief of all the
inhabitants and people of the kingdom for the eighth of all the goods of every layman, and the most urgent
necessity of the kingdom, the king has agreed to confirm the great charter of the liberties of England, and the
charter of the liberties of the forest ; and to grant by letters-patent that the said levy of the eighth shall not
operate to the prejudice of his people, or to the infringement of their liberties; and he commands and firmly
enjoins the sheriff, that he cause to be elected, without delay, two of the most able and legal, or most honest and
lawworthy (“probioribus et legalioribus”) knights of the county of Lancaster, and send them with full powers
from the whole community of the said county, to his dearest son Edward, his lieutenant in England (the king
being then abroad, engaged in the war with France), on the octaves of St. Michael next ensuing (6th Oct.
1297), to receive the said charters and the king's letters-patent for the said county.”
The members returned in the parliament of 1297 were “Henricus de Kigheleye,” and “Henricus le
Botiller,” vel “Botiler.” In the parliament of 1298, the return in the original writ is “Henricus de Kigheley,”
and “Joannes Denyes,” knights of the shire. The parliament of the following year (1299) produces no original
writ, nor any writ de expensis, for this county. The same observation applies to the parliaments of May
1300 and 1305, and to the two parliaments in 1306. -
To the parliament of January 1300, “Henricus de Kigheley” and “Thomas Travers” were returned for
this county; in September 1302, “Willielmus de Clifton,” and “Gilbertus de Singleton; in 1304, “Willielmus
de Clifton,” vel “ de Clyffedone,” and “Willielmus Banastre,” were elected to the same honour. These returns
to the frequent parliaments, in the latter part of the reign of Edward I. completes the writs for that period,
so far as regards this county. During the same reign, four returns were made to parliament of members for
the borough of Lancaster, two for the borough of Liverpool, five for Preston, and two for Wigan; each of
which will be treated of in its proper place.
The number of counties, cities, and boroughs, making returns to parliament at this time amounted to
one hundred and forty-nine,” in the list of which we find ten members for Lancashire; namely two for the
county, and two for each of the above-named boroughs. In the 24 Henry VI. (1446) the number of members
was reduced to 274, all the boroughs of Lancashire having then disappeared from the list, and the only
members returned for this county consisting of the knights of the shire.
Although these early parliaments were frequent, the period of their sitting was of short duration. In 49
Henry III. (1265) the parliament which assembled to settle the peace of the kingdom, after the barons' wars,
accomplished its duty in thirty-two days, and then dissolved; and yet this was reputed an incredible delay.
The parliament, 28 Edward I. (1300) which confirmed the great charter and made articuli super cartas, was
summoned to meet on the second Sunday in Lent, and ended the 20th day of March, on which day the writs
1 Petit MSS. vol. 15, fol. 88. Inner Temple Libr.
* This is probably the same person that was returned for Lanca-
of either money or counsel, or both. The order of the parliament
of Oxford, that three parliaments should, be held in one year, does
shire in the following year.
3 Rot. Claus. 25 Ed. I. m. 6. d. Orig. in Turr. Lond.
4 It is evident that no fixed rule was adhered to in summoning
these parliaments, except that which arose out of the king's want
not appear ever to have been acted upon with uniformity, and this
enactment was probably intended only to fix the times at which the
parliaments were to assemble, till the reforms then contemplated
were completed. 6 Prynne's Brev. Parl.
92 - Qſìje 3%istorm ºf £ancašijire. char. viii.
for the knights’ and burgesses' expenses were dated, making a session of three weeks. The famous parliament
at Lincoln, 28 Edward I. (Jan. 1301), wherein the king and nobles wrote their memorable letters to Pope
Boniface, claiming homage from the kings of Scotland to the kings of England, sat but ten days. The parlia-
ment of 35 Edward I. was summoned to meet at Carlisle, on the 20th of January (1307), when the king
expected Cardinal Sabines; but the cardinal not arriving, as was expected, the king prorogued this parliament
by another writ, till the Sunday next after Mid-lent (March 12), and on Palm Sunday the parliament ended,
having sat only fifteen days, whereof three were Sundays," it being in those times the general practice to
assemble the parliaments on the Sunday, and so far to disregard the Sabbath, as to hold their sittings continu-
ously, without any intermission, on that day.
EDWARD II.
No fewer than thirty-two parliaments were held during the twenty years' reign of Edward II. There
are no writs extant for Lancashire in ten of that number—namely, in 1308 and 1309; in 1310 ; in the two
parliaments of 1312, the first in February and the latter in July; in the parliaments of 1313 and 1316 ; and
in those of 1317, 1318, and 1323. Mr. Palgrave, in his second volume of Parliamentary Writs and Writs of
|Military Summons, published by direction of the commissioners of public records, has given a very complete
list of the returns made to parliament by the sheriff of Lancashire during this reign; and from that source
the following returns, from 1307 to 1327, are derived :—In 1307, it appears from the original writ for this
county, that “Matheus de Reddeman, miles,” and Willielmus le Gentyl, miles,” were returned. In 1311,
“Thomas de Bethune,” vel “Bethum, miles,” and “Willielmus le Gentylle,” vel “Genty], miles,” were returned
to the parliament on the 8th of August. The writ de expensis for the attendance at parliament, from the
return day until the feast of St. Dionysius, together with their charges coming and returning, is tested at
London on the 11th of October. It is remarkable that an individual named Thomas de Bethun or Bethom,
is also returned for Westmorland in the same parliament; and it is highly probable that the electors in some
cases economised their expenses by returning the same member to represent two counties. This parliament
is remarkable for the desertion of its public duty, from a cause which strikingly indicates that ancient members
of parliament had much less patience than their successors of the present day. So exhausted were the lords,
the king's counsel, the knights, and the burgesses, by their sitting of nine weeks, that most of them departed
from parliament without license, as the writs and summons attest, and the remainder petitioned the king to
adjourn, and thus obtained license to return to their homes. The original writ for the county of Lancaster,
in the parliament of August 1312, returns “Henricus de Trafforde, miles,” and “Ricardus le Molineaux de
Croseby, miles.” No enrolment of writ de expensis appears on the rolls, but the entries of such writs are
incomplete. “Dominus Willielmus de Bradeschagh, miles,” and “Dominus Edmundus de Dacre, miles,” are
returned in the original writ of March 18, 1313. In the writ of July 8, in the same year, Radulphus de
Bykerstathe, miles,” and “Willielmus de Slene, miles,” are returned. No manucaptors were found by these
knights. To the parliament of the 23d of September, in the same year, “Henricus de Feghirby vel Fegherby,
miles,” and Thomas de Thornton vel Thorneton, miles,” are returned. The writ de expensis for “Henricus
de Fegherby,” and “Thomas de Thorneton,” for attendance at parliament, from the return day (September
23) until Thursday next after the feast of St. Michael (November 15), amounts to £21 : 12s, at the rate of
four shillings each per diem, together with their charges coming and returning. In the parliament of Sep-
tember 1314, “Thomas Banastr", miles,” and “Willielmus de Slene, miles,” appear in the original writ, as
well as in the writ de expensis. “Willielmus de Bradeshagh, miles,” and “Adam de Halghton, miles,” are
returned in 1315, and £19:4s., at the rate of four shillings each per diem, is awarded to them by the writ
de expensis. In 1316, “Johannes de Lancastrie” and “Willielmus de Walton” are returned on the 27th of
January. “Rogerus de Pilketon, miles,” and “Johannes de Pilketon, miles,” are returned by the original
writ of 29th July in the same year, and their charges allowed at the usual rate in the writ de expensis.
“Edmundus de Nevill', miles,” and “Johannes de Horneby, miles,” are returned by the original writ of 1318,
on which it is observed that no manucaptors were found by these knights. At this period an advance took
place in the wages allowed to the county members for their services in parliament, and the allowance in the
writ de expensis is five shillings each per diem, instead of four as hitherto. In 1319, “Willielmus de Walton,
miles,” and “Willielmus de Slene, miles,” are returned in the original writ for the county; but it is much
torn and defaced, and rendered almost illegible. From some cause, the members' wages were again reduced
to four shillings each per diem. In 1320, “Gilbertus de Haydok, miles,” and “Thomas de Thornton, miles,”
appear in the original writ, and in the writ de expensis; but it was alleged that they were returned by
Willielmus le Gentil, the sheriff, on his own authority, and without the assent of the county. No original
writ for this county is found for the parliament of 1321, but the names of “Johannes de Horneby junior,”
and “Gilbertus de Heydok,” are inserted in the writ de expensis, tested at Westminster on the 22d of August.
“Edmundus de Nevill, miles,” and “Johannes de Lancastria, miles,” were returned to the parliament of 1322.
By this writ the sum of one hundred and seven shillings and fourpence is awarded to the two knights for
1 Prynne's Enlargement of his 4th Institute.
CELAP. VIII, (The ºigturn of 3|antašijire. 93
seventeen days' attendance in parliament at York, and six days coming and returning; Edmundus de Neville
receiving sixty-nine shillings, at the rate of three shillings per diem, and Johannes de Lancastria thirty-eight
shillings, at the rate of twenty pence per diem; but why the latter received lower wages than the former for
his parliamentary services is not stated. In the original writs of election and proclamation for this county,
in the parliament summoned to meet at Ripon on the 14th of Novemher 1322 (altered afterwards to York),
“Richard de Hoghton, miles,” and Gilbertus de Singilton'vel Sengilton, miles,” were returned. From the
writ de expensis it appears that the original rate of wages was re-established, and the sum of £8: 8s. for fifteen
days' attendance in parliament, and three days coming and three days returning, was awarded to the knights.
In 1324 the original writ for this county returns the names of “Edmundus de Nevill', miles,” and
“Gilbertus de Haidok, miles.” The names of “Edmundus de Nevyll’” and “Thomas de Lathum,” “per. iiii
dies,” are entered on the original pawn or docket, as knights appearing for this county. The writ de expensis
directs that sixteen marks for twenty days' attendance at parliament, and four days coming and four days
returning, at the rate of three shillings and fourpence each per diem, should be paid to the knights. No
reason is assigned for the substitution of the name of “Thomas de Lathum” for that of Gilbert de Haidok.
At another parliament in this year “Willielmus de Slene, miles,” and “Nicholaus le Norrays vel Norreys,
miles,” appear in the original writ for this county, returned by Gilbertus de [Sothelworth, sheriff. No manu-
captors were found by these knights. In the writ de expensis, £7: 15s, is awarded to the members for twenty-
one days' attendance in parliament, and five days coming, and five days returning, at the rate of two shillings
and sixpence each per diem. There is a peculiarity in this original writ. Usually the citizens and burgesses
of the county are required to send members; but in this case the summons is confined to knights of the
shire. In 1325 “Willielmus de Bradeshaghe, miles,” and “Johannes de Horneby vel Hornby’’ are returned.
No manucaptors were found by these knights. In the Writ de expensis, £7: 14s. is awarded for twenty-two
days' attendance in parliament, including coming and returning; “Willielmus de Bradeshaghe" to be paid at
the rate of four shillings, per diem, a knight's wages, and “Johannes de Horneby” at the rate of three
shillings per diem, an inferior rate of wages. In 1326-7 “Edmundus de Nevyll, miles,” and “Ricardus de
Hoghton, miles,” appear in the writ of expenses, the original writ not being found. The sum awarded to the
two knights is £28: 8s. for seventy-One days' attendance in parliament, coming and returning, at the rate of
four shillings each per diem.
During this reign four returns are made for the borough of Lancaster, and two for the borough of
Preston, but none for either Liverpool or Wigan. The rate of wages paid to the borough members appears
to have been fixed at two shillings each per diem.
By an assumption of power which is scarcely to be credited, the high sheriff of the county in 17 Edward
II. (1324), arrogated to himself, as we have already seen, the right of superseding the privileges of the electors,
and returning members for the county by his own appointment. The presentment made to the grand jury of
the hundred of West Derby against this Ostentatious and arbitrary sheriff has already been referred to, but
it may not be unacceptable to have the document entire —
“The Grand Jury of the Wapentake of West Derby present, That ‘ Willie/mºus le Gentil,” at the time
when he was Sheriff, and when he held his Tourn in the said Wapentake, ought to have remained no longer
in the Wapentake than three nights with three or four horses, whereas he remained there at least nine days
with eight horses, to the oppression of the people; and that he quartered himself one night at the house of
‘Dús de Turbat,’ and another night at the house of one ‘Robertus de Bold,’ another at the house of ‘Fobertus de Grenlay,’ and
elsewhere, according to his will, at the cost of the men of the Wapentake. They also present, that the said “Willielmus' allowed
one “Henricus fil. Roberti le Mercer,’ indicted of a notorious theft, to be let out upon manucaption ; whereas he was not mainpernable
according to the law ; in consequence of which the men of the Wapentake avoided making presentments of notorious thieves; and
that ‘Henricus de Malton’ did the same when he was sheriff. That the said “Willielmus' and “Henricus’ returned certain persons
on inquests and juries without giving them warning. That the said “Willielmus le Gentil,’ when sheriff, had returned ‘Gilbertus
de Haydok’ and “Thomas de Thornton,” knights of the shire (14 Edward II., 1320), without the assent of the County, whereas they
ought to have been elected by the County;-and had levied twenty pounds for their expenses; whereas the County could, by their
own election, have found two good and sufficient men who would have gone to Parliament for ten marks or ten pounds, and the
sheriff's bailiffs levied as much for their own use as they had levied for the knights. Also, that ‘Henricus de Malton,’ when he was
sheriff, had returned ‘Willielmus de Slene’ and ‘Willielmus de Walton’ as knights (12 Edward II. 1318), in the same manner.”
The said “Willielmus Gentiſ’ is enlarged, upon the manucaption of four manucaptors. —(Rot. Plac. 17 Edw. II. m., 72.)
LAN CASTER.
EDWARD III.
In the first parliament of Edward III. (1327), “Michael de Haverington” and “Will'us Lawrence” were
returned knights of the shire for the county of Lancaster. “Nich’us le Norreys” and “Henricus de Haydock”
were elected in 1328, and were succeeded by “Thomas de Thornton” and “John de Hornby,” who were succeeded
in the same year by “Will'us de Bradshaigh" and “Edrus de Nevill.” In 1329, “Nicholaus de Norreys” and
“Henry de Haydok” attended the adjourned parliament, and were succeeded by “Will'us de Bradeshawe.” and
“Joh’es de Lancastria.” “Will'us de Saperton” and “Henry de Haydok” were their successors in the year 1330.
At the election of these members, the sheriff, by Order of the king, proclaimed that if any person in the county
had suffered wrong from any of the servants of the crown, they were to come to the next parliament and make
known their complaints. “Will'us de Bradshawe" and “Oliverus de Stanesfield” were returned in 1331.
“Robertus de Dalton” and “Joh’es de Horneby” were elected in 1332, and in the same year “Adam Banastre”
94 (ſiſt £istory of 3Lancašijire. CHAP. VIII.
and “Robertus de Dalton” were returned. In 1333, “Edos () de Nevill” and “Johannes de Horneby” were
elected; and in the writs de expensis it appears that the wages of the knights were then four shillings per diem,
“Robertus de Radeclyf.” and “Henricus de Haydock” were returned in 1334, and they were succeeded in the
same year by “Edmundus de Nevill” and “Robertus de Dalton.” In 1335, “Robertus de Shirburn" and
“Edmundus de Nevill” were elected. In 1336, “Johannes de Horneby” and “Henricus de Haydok” were
returned; and in the same year “Johannes de Shirburn” and “Henricus de Haydok.” In 1337, “Robertus
de Irland” and “Henricus de Haydok” were returned, and they were succeeded in the same year by “Ric'us
de Hoghton,” and “Edmundus de Nevill.”
The changes made in the county members seem at this period to have been very frequent, but whether
that arose from the fickleness of the constituents, from the inadequate payments made to the knights of the
shire, or from the unproductive nature of parliamentary influence, and the very diminutive size of the pension-
list, does not appear.
The return to the writ of summons in the year 1338, contained the names of “Johannes de Hornby’’
and “Johannes de Clyderhowe,” as knights of the shire, to whom, by the writ de expensis, dated at North-
ampton on the 2d of August, the sum of £7:4s, was awarded for coming to, remaining in parliament, and
returning to their houses, being a payment of four shillings each per diem for eighteen days. The writ for
1339 was issued by the guardian of the kingdom, and the king's council, in his Majesty's absence; and the
knights returned to parliament for the county of Lancaster were “Robertus de Clyderhowe” and “Henricus
de Bikerstath.” In the same year “Nich’us de Hulm” and “Robertus de Prestecote" were returned.
“Robertus de Dalton” and “Johannes de Dalton” were returned in 1340, and in the same year “Johannes
de Radecliffe” and “Robertus de Radecliffe” were elected and returned to parliament, with the usual allowance
of four shillings per diem.
During the remainder of this reign the parliaments continued to be held almost every year; and it is
clear, from the continually-varying names returned for the county of Lancaster, that each session was a new,
and not an adjourned parliament. It is equally clear that no argument in favour of any precise duration of
parliament can be founded upon the practice of these early times, seeing that there was frequently more than
one parliament in the year; and that at other times the assembling of parliament was intermitted for two,
three, or four years.
In the 4th of Edward III. (1330) it was enacted that parliaments should be held once a-year, and
oftener, if necessary. The 36 Henry VI. (1458) requires a parliament to be held every year. By 16 Charles
II. (1664) it is enacted that parliaments shall be triennial; confirmed by 6 William and Mary (1694); but
by 1 George I. (1714) the time of their continuance, if considered necessary by the king and his advisers,
was rendered Septennial. So that our parliamentary history affords all the precedents from three parliaments
in the year to one parliament in seven years.
The following is a list of the members for the county of Lancaster during the remainder of the reign of
Edward III., with the date of the parliaments in which they sat, and the amount of wages they received from
the county:—
MEMBERs (KNIGHTS). PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
;: * ! Westminster, Monday, 15 days of Easter (April 28, 1331) . º * . £13:12s. for 34 days.
:- - Claus. 17 E. III. P. l. n. 1 dorso.
Nº. i º, Radiº Westminster, Monday after Octaves of Holy Trinity (June 16, 1344) . . £12 : 16s. for 32 days.
Claws. 18 F. III. P. 2 m, 26.
Joh’es de Cliderhowe . & ! -
•oºl Al-4+, Westminster, Monday after Feast of Nat. Blessed Mary (Sep. 11, 1346) . £7: 4S. for 18 days.
Adam de Bredekirk . . 2 y Claws. 20 F. ITT. P. 2 m, 14 d.
Rob'tus de Plesyngton . Westminster, Monday after Dominica day Middle Quadragesima * t *
robius de Prestcote. d ! 31, isis) g wº e q * tº º g * £9:4s, for 23 days.
Claus, 22 JE. III. P. 1, m. 24 d.
* º* * e | Westminster, Morrow of St. Hillary (Jan. 19, 1349) tº £15:4s. for 38 days.
- tº º & ſ - Claus, 22 E. III. P. 1. ‘m. 33 dors0.
§: º clif © ! Westminster, Octaves of the Purification (Feb. 9, 1851) . e fe . £13:4s. for 33 days.
& Claus. 25 E. III. Pars unica, m, 27 dorso.
No Writ found . ſº , Westminster, Tuesday, Feast St. Hillary.
26 E. III. (1352). 4s. f d
Johes de H. Westminster, Morrow 1 of the Assumption (Aug. 26, 1852). & º . £4:4s. for 21 days.
ohes de Haveryngton 5 ption (Aug Claus, 26 F. III. In. 10 d.
1 This was called the “Great Council” for “settling the Staple” one knight only, “ of the most advanced, discreet, and most exempt,
or manufacture of the kingdom, to which Lancashire sent only one in that respect, as men who would be least withdrawn from autumnal
member for the county, and none for its boroughs; but were such occupation.” Writs were also issued (for the first time) to Henry,
a council to be held in the present day, it is highly probable that duke of Lancaster, to send the same (one knight) from his county.
this county would return, at least, its full complement of members. —H.
—B. To this parliament writs were sent to all the sheriffs, to send
CHAP. VIII. (The #t3tory of £antagjire. 95
MEMBERs (KNIGHTS). PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
§º | Westminster, Monday after St. Matthi. Apost. (Sep. 28, 1853) . . . . e6 for 30 days.
• TT 5 Claus. 27 E. III. m. 5 d.
Yºlº | Westminster Monday after St. Mark Evang. (April 28, 1854) . e . £13: 12s. for 34 days.
Claus. 28 F. III. m. 21 d.
Rog. de Far’ndon º | º
Westminster, Monday after St. Edmund, Martyr (Nov. 23, 1355) º . £7: 12s. for 19 days.
Roºt de Hamily º 2 Cºmº E. H. Parsºmº."
-> £7: 12s. for John for
#. º ºn º | Westminster, Monday in Easter week (April 10, 1857) . . . . . 38 days, and for Robº.
füOpt. de Singleton * º £6:4S. for 31 days.
(Addressed to the Duke.) Claus. 31 Jº. III. m. 19 d.
The Writs de expensis for the knights of the shire for the county of Lancaster are directed, not to the
sheriff, but to the duke of Lancaster himself. The knights for the counties generally had two distinct Writs,
some of them for six, others for seven, and one for eight days’ expenses; but the writs for Lancashire were
issued to the duke of Lancaster himself, or his lieutenant, by the title of Duke and Duchy of Lancaster:-
MEMBERs (KNIGHTS). PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
#º | Westminster, Monday after Purification B. M. (Feb. 5, 1358) . e £13:12s. for 34 days.
- Claws. 32 E. III. m. 31 d.
Kºi..." . . . Westminster, Sunday before conversion of St. Paul Gan 2, 1881) . . alsº ºr ssay.
Claus. 35 E. III. m. 38 d. .
No Writ #: cashire in | Westminster, 15 days of St. Michael (Oct. 13, 1362).
º 36 E. III.
At this period a singular piece of presumption was practised in the return to parliament of members for
the county of Lancaster. The deputy-sheriffs, instead of returning the members elected by the County,
returned themselves, concealing the Writ, and levying the expenses, which they appropriated to their own use.
Upon complaint made to the king, he issued two Writs: the first to the sheriff of Lancashire, and the second
to the justices of the peace of the county, directing them to examine into the merits of the election, and to
certify the facts to him in chancery; in the mean time, the levying of the expenses was suspended till further
orders upon these “unparalleled writs,” as they are called by Prynne. In the writ to the sheriff, (dated 17
Nov. 1362), that officer is informed that the greatest agitation exists in Lancashire respecting the election of
the knights for that county in the last parliament; and his Majesty, wishing to be more fully informed about
the election, commands the sheriff to assemble the knights and other good men of the commons of the said
county, and to make inquiry, whether “Edrus Laurence” and “Matthew Risheton,” who have been returned
in the writ to parliament as knights of the said county, or other persons, were duly elected; and if, upon
deliberation and information, he should find them to have been elected by the common assent of the County,
then to cause the said Edrus and Matthew to have £18: 16s. for their expenses incurred in coming to the
parliament, remaining there, and then returning—that is to say, for forty-seven days—each of the aforesaid
Edrus and Matthew receiving four shillings per diem; but if other persons have been elected knights of the
said county, then the sheriff is to render information of their names, under his seal, into the king's chancery,
and to remit the writ to his Majesty, conformably to the directions already given. The king's writ to the
justices is addressed to his beloved and faithful Godefr. Foleiambe, and his fellow justices of the peace, in the
county of Lancaster, on the 5th of February 1363; and it states roundly that the said Edrus and Matthew,
who are the sheriff's lieutenants, have made a false and deceptive return ; in consequence of which, the jurors
are required to call before them, at their next session, the knights and other good men of the same county,
and take diligent information and inquisition on the above premises, and to return the same into the king's
chancery; the sheriff of Lancashire being at the same time commanded to supersede the levy of the wages,
until he shall have further directions from the king in his mandate respecting them. The result was, that,
the election was declared void, and the sheriff's lieutenants were unseated by the king's authority. The pro-
ceedings under these memorable writs, which were the first of the kind that were issued, serve to show that
the king in these early times, and not the commons house of parliament, examined and determined on
disputed elections; and that the king, by special writ issued to the sheriff, or to the justices of the peace,
caused the merits of the elections to be inquired into, and certificate to be made of their legality or illegality.
But, to resume the returns of the list of members for the county:—
KNIGHTS. PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
#. . #. e | Westm. Octaves of St. Hillary (Jan. 20, 1365) . º ſº º g . £17:48, for 43 days.
Cl. 38 E. III. m. 31 d.
º º de Radeclyf ! Westm. Monday, the morrow of the Invention of the Cross (May 4, 1866) . £8:16s. for 22 days.
Cl. 40 E. III, m, 23 d.
96 (The #istory of £ancashire. CHAP. VIII.
Rog. d i. PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
OQ. Cle tº WlkWI) Qt,OI] .
i. i. ; Sell. ! Westm, 1st of May (1868) . . . . . . . . . . #14 for 35 days.
Joh’es de Dalt Cl. 42 E. III. m. 14 d. --
i. i. i. w | Westm. Octaves of Trinity (Sunday, June 3, 1369). . . . * * . £8: 16s. for 22 days.
Joh’es de I - Cl. 43 E. III. m. I3 d.
Ones de 1pre . | Westm. Mondav. O g
• , 5 g y, Octaves of St. Michael (Oct 6,? 1371) º g & . £19:12s. for 51 days.
Ric’us de Toumley - Cl. 45 E. III. m. 34 d.
Joh’es de ſpre . g . Wynton, Monday in Octaves of Trinity (June 8, 1371) g e ſº . £4:4S. for 21 days.
- . - Cl. 45 E. III. m. 22 d.
Nich. de Haverynton . Westm. Morrow of All Souls (Wednesday, Nov. 3, 1372) . e e . £6: 12s, for 33 days.
Will’us de Ath Cºl. 46 E. III. m. 4 d.
• 1 + 3 therton . - -
Joh’ .#.Il | Westm. Morrow of St. Edmund (Nov. 23, 1373) e * - ſº º . £12:8s. for 31 days.
Joh’es Bottiler. Chival Cl. 47 E. III. m. 1 d.
9 ti * t º
#. iº * 6?” e Westm. Monday after St. George (April 28, 1376) * te ſº º . £34:8s. for 86 days.
Joh’es Botill Cº. 50 E. III. P. 2. m. 23 d.
#.º. | Westm, in fifteen days of St. Hillary (Jan. 27, 1377) . g g . . . #18:16s. for 47 days.
07. 51 E. III. m. 12 d.
In the 20 Edward III. (1346) the number of the temporal peers summoned to the parliament held at West-
minster, at the head of whom stood Henry, duke of Lancaster, amounted only to fifty-four, from which it may be
inferred that the hundred and fifty barons in parliament of 47 Henry III. (1263) mentioned by Selden included
the minor barons, at that time the only representatives of the commonalty of the land; and that not by delega-
tion, but by a common interest. The fixed number of abbots and priors to be summoned to parliament was
determined in the reign of Edward III., but it will be seen by the following list that in the twenty-six
religious houses to which this privilege was adjudged, none of the Lancashire monasteries are included: —
1. St. Albans. 8. Evesham. 15. Shrewsbury. 22. Malmesbury.
2. Glastonbury. 9. Wincheloomb. 16. Gloucester. 23. Cirencester.
3. St. Austin's, Cant. 10. Crowland. 17. Bardney. 24. St. Mary, York.
4. Westminster. 1]. Battell. 18. Bènet in Holm. 25. Selby. -
5. St. Edmondsbury. 12. Reading. 19. Thorney. 26. Prior of St. John of
6. Peterborough. 13. Abingdon. 20. Ramsey. Jerusalem, first
7. Colchester. 14. Waltham. 21. Hide. baron of England.
Although the boroughs of Lancashire, Preston, Liverpool, and Wigan, all returned burgesses to represent
them in parliament in the reign of Edward I., only the two former of these places sent members in the reign
of the second Edward, and so early as the ninth year of Edward III, we find the return made by the sheriff
of the county, in answer to the parliamentary writ of Summons, states that, “There is not any city or borough
in my bailiwick [or county].” It is to be observed that the writs do not particularise the boroughs that are
to return members, but merely require the sheriff to return two citizens for each city, and two burgesses for
each borough, within his county. In the 36th of Edward III. (1362), the sheriff, in his return, writes upon the
writ, “There is not any city or borough in his county from which citizens or burgesses ought, or are accustomed,
to come as this writ requires.” In the 38th of Edward III. (1364), the reason for this negative return is
rendered—“There are not any cities or boroughs (in Lancashire) that Ought, or any of the citizens or
burgesses of which are wont, to come to the said parliament, on account of their debility or poverty.” In the
following year (1365) the case is still more strongly put—“There is not any city or borough from which any
citizens or burgesses are able, or accustomed to come, according to the tenor of the Writ, by reason of their
debility and poverty.” In the 2d of Richard II. (1378-79), when the parliamentary writs were addressed to
the duke of Lancaster, this plea of debility is not confined to the county, but is extended to the whole duchy;
and it is stated that there are not any burgesses in the duchy of Lancaster who were accustomed to come to
our lord the king's parliament because of their poverty. In the last year of this king's reign (1399), the plea
of poverty is again reduced within the limits of the county, and it is said—That there are not any citizens or
burgesses within the county of Lancaster, who have been accustomed in times past to come to any parliaments.
Our ancestors, so far from aspiring to an increase in their boroughs, were anxious, in the language of modern
legislation, to merge those they had in schedule A, conceiving the cost of their borough members, though
limited to the very moderate sum of two shillings a-day during parliaments of comparatively short duration,
not sufficiently repaid by the support of their local interests. On the subject of the payment of wages to the
members of parliament, considerable light is shed by a petition presented to the king in 8 Henry VI. (1430),
by the commons, and which is expressed in these words—“The Commons pray, that all cities, boroughs,
towns, and hamlets, and the residents within them, except the lords spiritual and temporal coming to parlia-
ment, and the ecclesiastics, and those cities and boroughs which find citizens or burgesses for parliament,
shall henceforth for ever contribute to the expenses of the knights elected, or to be elected, to parliaments.”
For two hundred and fifty years—that is, from the end of the thirteenth to the middle of the sixteenth
CELAP. VIII. The pistory of Lancashire. 97
century, about one hundred and twenty, or one hundred and thirty, cities and boroughs in England, returned
members pretty constantly to parliament ; and about thirty others returned them only occasionally, amongst
which were the Lancashire boroughs, the sheriffs having taken upon themselves to dispense with the attendance
of members for those boroughs, for the reasons stated in the Writs. -
The following petition, presented by the commons to the king in the same year, shows that the very
moderate remuneration of the members was withheld, to their impoverishment, and to the detriment of the
State :-
“Whereas the Citizens and Burgesses elected to Parliament, have, from antient time, been accustomed to have of right, for
wages and expenses each day during the sitting of parliament, two shillings; and for which wages each of them had from antient
time, and of right ought to have, their writ to the sheriffs of the county where such cities or boroughs are, for them to levy and
deliver to them the said wages, in the same manner as the knights of shires have had and used. And whereas these wages are now
withheld, and divers notable and wise persons, elected to Parliament, cannot attend without their utter ruin, and the national loss :
the Commons of this present Parliament pray the king to grant them the said wages, of two shillings each, every day, during thé
Session of Parliament.” &D 5 “. . 85
Prynne has preserved a register of the time allowed to members of parliament for travelling from Lanca-
shire to certain places, when the parliaments were held in those cities; from which it appears that two, and
sometimes three days, were allowed for travelling to York, four days to Coventry, and five or six to London
in ordinary seasons; but in a snow or “foul weather” eight days was the maximum allowance for travelling
from hence to a parliament sitting at Westminster. In the 7th of Henry VI. (1429) it is asserted in the
sheriff's return, notwithstanding the fact to the contrary, that there is not any city or borough within the
county of Lancaster, which was accustomed in times past to send any citizens or burgesses to parliament, on
account of their poverty and want of means, and therefore no mention is made of citizens and burgesses &S
appears in the indenture annexed to the writ." Similar language is held in all the returns from Lancashire
till I Edward VI. (1547), when Lancaster, Preston, Liverpool, and Wigan, resumed their elective franchise;
and in 1 Elizabeth (1558-59) Newton and Clitheroe were added to the boroughs of the county. During the
Commonwealth two returns were made by Manchester, but that town ceased to return members at the
Restoration. -
RICHARD II.
In the first year of the reign of Richard II. (1378), the king, in his writ of summons for the
duchy of Lancaster, addressed to John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, and king of Castile and Leon, after
announcing that Charles of France had overrun Flanders, and was meditating an attack upon the English city
of Calais, informed his beloved uncle, that, for the better defence of his kingdom, and of the Anglican church
and to afford succour to his allies, he designed to embark for the continent ; and for the good government of
the kingdom while he was absent, the duke was commanded to send from his duchy two knights from the
county palatine of Lancaster, two citizens from each city, and two burgesses from each borough, within the
same, to parliament, having full power, from him (the duke) and the commons of the duchy, to take the neces-
sary measures therein. This writ is preserved in the archives of the duchy of Lancaster.”
The members returned to parliament as knights of the shire for the county of Lancaster, in virtue of
the writ, were “Joh’es Boteler” and “Nich. de Haveryngton,” who, after a session of sixty-six days, received
a writ de expensis to the amount of £26: 8s. ; but no citizens or burgesses were returned from any city or
borough of the duchy or county of Lancaster. In the 2d year of Richard II. (1379) “J oh'es Botiller
Chivaler,” and “Rad’us de ſpre,” were returned for the county of Lancaster, as appears from the foil.
Cl. 2 Rich. II. m. 22 d., on which Prynne observes, that the writ in this roll was issued to the duke of
Lancaster, and to his vicegerent, for the knights of the duchy; that in the Writ to the duke this clause, “as
well within the liberties as beyond,” is omitted, and this clause of exception (inserted in all other Writs for
knights' expenses in other counties), “the cities and boroughs of which the citizens and burgesses to our
parliament, etc., shall come, so far as excepted,” because the sheriffs of Lancashire then and before returned-
* There is not any city nor any borough within the bailiwick from which any citizens or burgesses to the said
parliament ought (or are wont) to come, because of their weakness or poverty.” And in this very year made
this return, “And there are not any citizens or burgesses in the aforesaid duchy who have been wont to
come to any parliament, because of their poverty and debility.”
The other knights of the shire returned for the county of Lancaster during the reign of Richard II. are
enumerated in the following list :—
KNIGHTS. PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
Joh’es Botiller, Chivaler . † e
Thos. Sutheworth, Chivaler | Westminster, Monday after St. Hillary (June 16, 1380) º ſº e . £24 for 60 days.
- - Cl. 3 R. II. m. 18 d.
Joh’es Botiller, Chivaler . . ę *
Thos. de Suthworth, Chivaler | Northampton, Monday after all Saints (Nov. 5, 1380). * tº * , . £19 : 12s. for 49 days.
. CZ. 4 R. J.I. m. 20 d.
1 The sheriffs seem to have erected, nominated, returned, omitted, Preston ; yet in twenty-six intervening years, other sheriffs make
discontinued, revived, and recontinued boroughs, at their own will returns to the effect set forth in the text.— Parliaments and
and pleasure. Under the three first Edwards, thirteen sheriffs re- Councils of England, p. 30.
turned members thirteen times for Lancaster and six times for * Roll. A, 6. m. 16.
O
98 (ſiſt ºigtorg of £antagüíre. CHAP. VIII.
KNIGHTS. PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
Will. de Athirton . e !-- c.4-on- **** so ºr oa
Robt. de Urcewyk . e | Westminster, Morrow of All Souls (Nov. 3, 1381) & & e g C7 ºn 8s. º º days.
... O ſº. 11. 77%. 242, Cº.
º cºme | Westminster, Morrow of St. John (May 7, 1382). g * * * . £10 for 25 days.
Cl. 5 R. J.I. m. 5 d.
†: | Westminster, Monday, Octaves of St. Michael (Oct. 6, 1382) gº & . £10:16s. for 27 days.
* - 5 Cl. 6 R. II. p. 1 m. 17 d.
i. i. º | Westminster, Monday, three weeks of Quadragesima (Feb. 23, 1883) . . £10:8s, for 36 days.
John Holcrof l Cl. 6 R. II. p. 2 m. 13 d.
Ohn Holcroft ti-ro- * * & e *
(Name obliterated.) ) Westminster, Monday before All Saints (Oct. 26, 1383) º t † . £8:16s. for 40 days.
Cl. 7 R. II. m. 23 d.
#: jºinsºn | New Sarum, Friday after St. Mark (April 29, 1384) . º tº * . £16 for 40 days.
ſº sº C/, 7 R. II. m. I d.
* º | Westminster, Morrow of St. Martin (Saturday, Nov. 12, 1384) . º . £18 for 45 days.
Cl. 8 R. II. m. 27 d.
#: º | Westminster, Friday after St. Luke (Oct. 20, 1385) . gº tº & . £23:4s. for 58 days,
Cl. 9 R. J.T. m. 22 d.
Nic.de Haveryngton, Chivaler e * ſº *
Robt. de Woºsley fº * | Westminster, 1st October (1386) w * & º 's s s s . £28 for 71 days.
C7. 10 R. II. m. 16 d.
Joh. le Botiller de Weryng-
ton, Chivaler . & . Westminster, Morrow of the Purification B. Mary (Monday, Feb. 8, 1888) . £46 for 115 days.
Thos. Gerard . p e
. 11 R. II.
Joh. de Asheton, Chivaler . e - -
}. . sº º | Cantebrigge, Morrow of Nat. B. Mary (Sept. 9, 1388). & º e . £18:8s. for 46 days.
Cl. 12 R. J.T. m. 14 d.
Rad. de Tpres, Chival º !-- ~4- º
J . . Aºi. º €I? . | Westminster, Monday after St. Hillary (Jan. 17, 1390) * , ſº wº . £22 for 56 days.
- Cl. 13 R. J.I. p. 2. m. 7 d.
3. º Fºº | Westminster, Morrow of St. Martin (Saturday, Nov. 12, 1390) . g . £30:12s. for 34 days.
Cºl. 14 R. J.I. m. 30 d.
; i. Wºº, cºme | Westminster, Morrow of All Souls (Friday, Nov. 3, 1391) . g fi . £17 for 40 days.
Cl. 15 R. J.T. m. 26 d.
Robt. de Ursewik, Chival &
i. ... .º..." s | Wynton, Octaves of St. Hillary (Monday, Jan. 20, 1898) . y © . £23 for 38 days.
Cl. 16 F. J.T. m. 19 d.
#: $º.hºle Westminster, fifteen days of St. Hillary (Tuesday, Jan. 27, 1394) ge . £21 for 71 days.
C7, 17 R. II. m. 9 d.
#: i. Hº2 cline | Westminster, fifteen days of St. Hillary (Wednesday, Jan. 27, 1395) . . £12:16s. for 32 days.
Cl. 18 J3. II, m. 6 d.
#".º cºins | Westminster, Feast of St. Vincent (Monday, Jan. 22, 1397) te * . £30:12s. for 34 days.
Cl. 20 R. J.T. p. 2. m. 2 d.
* de Weryngton, Westminster, Monday after Exalt of Cross (Sept. 7, 1897), and adjourned to eig , ss for 41 days
Rad, de Radecliff 9. & Shrewsbury (Monday, Jan. 28, 1398) . e º e º * º *
Cº. 21 R. II. p. 2. m. 9 d.
HENRY TW.
The duchy of Lancaster being now united with the crown, by the duke having become king of England,
the parliamentary writs of summons, in the first and second years of the reign of Henry IV, were addressed
to the sheriff of Lancaster, and not to the duke. The members for the county returned in this reign were:—
KNIGHTS. PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
Hen. de #: §: | Westminster, Morrow of St. Michael, summoned by Richard II. (Sept. 30, 1899) £26:16s. for 71 days.
Ol. 1 Høn. TV. P. j. m. 21 d.
Robt. de Ursewyke, Chival e * g.
§. . Ai. ğ. | Westminster, Octaves of St. Hillary (Jan. 20, 1401) . º * tº . £34:16s. for 66 days.
- C7. 2 H. TV. P. j. m. 3 d.
Rich. de Hoghton, Chivaler e *
§. āś, ë. Westminster, Morrow of St. Michael (Sept. 30, 1402) . * & * . £27 for 69 days.
- e CZ. 4 H. T.V. m. 34 d.
#. º cººle | Westminster, Morrow of St. Hillary (Jan. 14, 1404) . * g º . £31:12s. for 69 days.
C7. 5 H. IV. P. m. 10 d.
CEIAP. VIII.
(The #istory of £ancashire, 99
IKNIGHTS. PARLIAMENT AT WAGES.
Jac. Har on, Chivaler .
ki i. Chivaler . Coventry, 6th of October (1404) . £8:8s. for 46 days.
C. 6 H. TV. m. 5 d.
Westminster (Monday), 1st of March (1406)
Adjourned to 25th April t fe
Adjourned to 4th June.
Adjourned to 25th Oct.
Adjourned to 22d Dec. .
Will. Botiller
Rob't. Lawrence. £71:12s, for 189 days.
a si trºº
£21:12s. for 54 days.
Cl. 9 H. I. V. m. 8. d.
To the parliament held at Coventry in the 6th year of this monarch's reign (1404), the sheriffs were
commanded by the king not to return any lawyers—persons learned in the law; and hence this parliament
was called, “The Lack-learning Parliament” (“Parliamenium Indochim”).
|Henr. Hoghton, Chivaler . +,-, -, ex-
Rad, de. Štavely, Chivaler . Gloucester, 20th October (1407) .
HENRY W.
The first return made in this reign (1st Hen. W. 1413) of the knights of the shire for Lancashire trans-
mits the names of “Joh. Assheton and Joh. de Stanley, chivalers.” By a striking singularity the indenture
mentions only the name of Sir John Stanley, and entirely omits that of his colleague, stating that Nich.
Longford, knight, and all others named in the indenture after him, with unanimous consent and agreement,
have made a free election, and given to John Stanley the younger full power to become a knight in the
parliament to be held at Westminster, to answer for themselves and all theirs, and for all the commons in
the county of Lancaster, in those matters which, under favour of the king, shall happen to be ordained in
parliament. The corresponding indenture is lost.
In the next parliament, “Rad. de Radcliff” and Nich. Blundell,” are returned as knights of the shire for this county
(January 29, 1414). -
2 Henry W. Johannes de Stanley, Robertus Lawrence, per indent. (November 19, 1414).]
8 Henry V. Henry de Hoghton, Rad’us de Stanley (December 2, 1420).
HENRY WI.
The members returned to represent the county of Lancaster in this reign were :—
7 [? 6] Henry VI. Joſies Byron, Robertus fil. Roberti Laurence, knights, per indent. (October 13, 1427).
25 Henry VI. Thomas Stanley, knt. Thomas Harrington, Esq. per indent. (February 10, 1447).
27 Henry VI. The same persons. (February 12, 1449).
28 Henry VI. Thomas Stanley, Joſies Butler, knights, per indent. (November 6, 1449).
29 Henry VI. Thomas Stanley, Thomas Harrington, knights, per indent. (November 6, 1450).
33 Henry VI. Thomas Stanley, Alexander Radcliff, knights. (July 9, 1455).
38 Henry VI. Richus Harrington, knight, Henry Halsall, per indent. (November 20, 1459).
39 Henry VI. Richd. Haryngton, knt., and Henry Halsall (October 7, 1460).
In the seventh year of this king's reign (1428-9), the qualification of electors for counties, which had
hitherto been undefined, was fixed by an act of parliament, which ordains that “the knights shall be chosen
in every county by people dwelling and residing in the same county, whereof every one of them shall have
land or tenement of the value of forty shillings by the year, at the least, over and above all charges,” which
is explained, by an act of the 10th (1431-2) of the same king, to mean, freeholds of that value, within the
county for which the election is to be made. Hitherto all the freeholders, without exception, had claimed
the right of voting for county members, in consequence of which, it is alleged, great outrages had arisen,
“whereby manslaughter, riots, batteries, and divisions among the gentlemen and other people of the said
counties, shall very likely arise and be, unless convenient and due remedy be provided in this behalf.”
From the reign of Henry VI. to the present time [1866], no change has been judged necessary in this qualifica-
tion, though the nominal money equivalent has in the meantime greatly increased.”
The agitation of the kingdom at this period, arising out of the wars between the houses of York and
Lancaster, seems to have given rise to a violent stretch of the royal prerogative, the king having, of his own
authority, summoned members to parliament ; and hence an act of indemnity was passed 23 Henry VI.
(1445), which provides, “that all such knights of any county, as are returned to the parliament by virtue of
the king's letters, without any other election, shall be good, and that no sheriff, for returning them, do incur
the pains therefore provided.”
| At this election, eighteen electors, in full county court, with
other “honest men and lieges’ of the county of Lancaster, elected
the knights.-Parliaments and Councils of England, p. 28.
* In the original edition Mr. Baines states that since the reign
of Henry VI. “the value of money has in the meantime increased
tenfold.” The error is in using the term “value,” instead of
“nominal equivalent.” The truth is, that £5 in the reign of Henry
VI. would have purchased 15 quarters of wheat, which, for 20
years before 1707 (when Fleetwood wrote his Chronicon Preciosum)
cost £30. In other words, from Henry VI. to 1707, the value of
money had decreased sixfold, instead of increasing tenfold. What
is meant is, that the equivalent of £5 temp. Henry VI. was £30 in
1707—a sixfold increase in nominal amount.—H.
8 Sir Robert Cotton's Abridgment, p. 664.
100 (Iſiſe #istorg of 3 antagijire. CHAP. VIII.
EDWARD IV.
The members returned for the county of Lancaster in this reign were:–
7 Ed. IV. 1467. James Haryngton, knt.; and William Haryngton, knt.
12 Ed. IV. 1472. Robert Harynton and John Asshton.
17 Ed. IV. 1477. George Stanley, knt.; and James Haryngton, knt.
From the 17th of Edward IV. to 33 Henry VIII. (1541), all the returns are lost; and in the latter year,
though a parliament was held, no return for this county appears amongst the records. From that period to
the 16th of Charles I. (1640) the writs are regular, and the following are the members returned as knights
of the shire for this county:— - -
1 Edw. WI. 1547. Thurstan Tyldesley, Esq.-John Kechyn, Esq.
2 3 1553. Richard Houghton, (in whose place Robert Worsley, Knt.)—Tho. Butler, Esq.
1 Mary. 1553. Rob. Sherborne, Knt.—John Rygmayden, Esq.
I , , 1554. Tho. Stanley, Knt.—Tho. Langton, Knt.
1 & 2 Philip & Mary. 1554. Tho. Stanley, Knt.—John Holcroft, Knt.
2 & 3 , , ,, 1555. Tho. Stanley, Knt.—Will. Stanley, Knt.
4 & 5 , , ,, 1557. Tho. Talbot, Knt.—John Holcroft, senr. Knt.
1 Elizabeth. 1558-9. John Atherton, Knt.—Rob. Worseley, Knt.
5 2 3 1563. Tho. Gerard, Knt.—John Southworth, Knt.
I3 2 3 1571. Tho. Butler—John Radcliffe, Esq.
14 2 3 1572. John Radcliff, Esq.-Edm. Trafford, Esq.
27 2 2 1585. Gilbert Gerard, Knt.—Rich. Molineux.
28 2 3 1586. John Atherton, Esq.-Rich. Holland, Esq.
31 5 2 1588. Tho. Gerard, son of Sir Gilbert Gerard, knt.—Tho. Walmesley, sergeant-at-law.
35 2 3 1592. Tho. Molineux, Knt.—Tho. Gerard, jun. Knt.
39 5 2 1597. Ric. Houghton, Knt.—Tho. Gerard, Knt.
43 22 1601. Rich. Houghton, Knt.—Tho. Hesketh, attorney of the Court of Wards.
1 James I. 1603. Rich. Molineux, Knt.—Rich. Houghton, Knt.
12 , , 1614. Gilbert Houghton, Knt.—John Radcliff, Knt.
18 , , 1620. John Radcliff, Knt.—Gilbert Houghton, Knt.
21 , , 1623. John Radcliff, Knt.—Tho. Walmesley, Knt.
1 Charles I. 1625. Rich. Molineux, Bart.—John Radcliff, Knt.
I 2 2 1625. Rob. Stanley, Esq.-Gilbert Houghton.
3 2 2 1628. Rich. Molineux, Knt. and Bart.—Alex. Radcliff, Knight of the Bath.
15 3 2 1640. Gilbert Houghton, Knt. and Bart.—Will. Farrington, Esq.
I6 2 ) 1640. Ralph Ashton, Esq.-Roger Kirby, Esq.-Rich. Houghton, Bart.
In 15th of Henry VIII. (1523) Sir Thomas More, then chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster, held the
office of speaker of the House of Commons. The learned chancellor's connection with the duchy has led to
the mistake that he represented Lancashire in parliament, and consequently that this county has had the
honour to supply a member to the speaker's chair; but this is an error. -
In the 1st of Edward VI. (1547) writs of parliamentary summons were re-issued to Lancaster, Preston,
Liverpool, and Wigan; and each of these places at that period resumed, by royal authority, the elective
franchise. Queen Elizabeth, in the first year of her Majesty's reign, made a further accession to the Lanca-
shire boroughs, by the addition of Newton and Clitheroe; and all these six boroughs (except Newton, dis-
franchised by the Reform Act of 1832) have ever since that time regularly returned members to parliament.
It appears that nomination boroughs were perfectly familiar so early as the reign of Elizabeth ; and it is
probable, that both Newton and Clitheroe have always partaken of this character: but the most flagrant
instance of the kind upon record in these early times is to be found in a bundle of returns of parliamentary
writs in the 14th of Queen Elizabeth (1572), which, though unconnected with the county of Lancaster, may
not inaptly be introduced in this place. The document is in the chapel of the rolls, and is expressed in the
following terms —
“To all Christian people to whom this present Writing shall come : I, Dame Dorothy Packington, widow, late wife of Sir
John Packington, Kt., Lord and Owner of the Town of Aylesbury, send greeting. KNow ye Me, the said Dame Dorothy Pack-
ington, to have chosen, named, and appointed my trusty and well-beloved Thomas Litchfield and George Burden, Esqrs. to be my
Burgesses of my said town of Aylesbury. And whatsoever the said Thomas and George, Burgesses, shall do in the Service of the
Queen's Highness in that present Parliament, to be holden at Westminster the Eighth Day of May next ensuing the Date hereof, I,
the same Dorothy Packington, do ratify and approve to be my own Act, as fully and wholly as if I were or might be present there.
In WITNESs whereof, to these presents I have set my Seal this Fourth Day of May, in the Fourteenth Year of the Reign of our
Sovereign Lady Elizabeth, by the Grace of God, of England, France, and Ireland, Queen, Defender of the Faith, etc.”
In the 26th year of this queen's reign (1584), a very extraordinary claim was set up to parliamentary
nomination by Sir Ralph Sadler, “a knight of noted virtue,” in respect of his office of chancellor of the duchy
of Lancaster, which was no less than the right to nominate both the members to represent the borough of
Leicester in parliament. The account given in the archives of the borough of this claim, and of the manner
in which it was disposed of, is as follows:—
“Nov. 12, 26 ELIZ.—At a common hall, the sheriff's precept being read, and after that Sir Ralph Sadler's letter for nomination
of both our burgesses, and other letters; it is agreed, that Sir Ralph Sadler, knight, chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster, shall
have the nomination of one of the burgesses; who thereupon nominated Henry Skipwith, Esq.; and the other chosen was Thomas
Johnson, one of her Majesty's Serjeants-at-arms; and either of them promised to bear their own charges.”
CELAP., VIII. The history of ilancashirt. I ()]
On what authority the chancellor grounded his pretensions to nominate members for Leicester,
except that it is within the duchy of Lancaster, does not appear, nor does it appear that any similar claim
was ever made by any other chancellor, either before or since. It may be inferred from the corporation
record, that members began about this time to serve without wages; and, it is probable, that the practice
was gradually discontinued, till at length it wholly ceased.
COMMONWEALTH.
The following are the names of the members for the county of Lancaster, elected during the Common-
wealth :—
1653. Will. West, John Sawry, Rob. Cunliss.
[The name of “PRAISE GOD BAREBONE,” occurs in this parliament in the list of London members.]
1654. Rich. Holland, Gilbert Ireland, Rich. Standish, Will. Ashurst. f
1656. Sir Rich. Houghton, Bart. Col. Gilbert Ireland, Col. Rich. Holland, Col. Rich. Standish.
1658-9. George Book [? Rooke], Bart. ; Alex. Rigby, Esq.
11 CHARLES II." To 30 WICTORIA.
The parliament of 1653 was a packed parliament, returned by Cromwell, the Lord Protector, and con-
sisted of only one hundred and twenty-one members, of whom one hundred and ten were for England, five
each for Scotland and Ireland, and one for Wales. In 1654, the right of election was again partially restored,
the number of members being augmented to four hundred, of whom two hundred and seventy were chosen
by the counties; the remainder were elected by London and other considerable corporations and towns,
Manchester and Leeds being amongst the number. To the parliament of 1653 neither Lancaster, Preston,
Liverpool, Wigan, or Clitheroe sent any members, but the county returned three ; to those of 1654 and 1656
Lancaster, Preston, Liverpool, and Wigan sent each one member, and the county four. To the parliament of
1658–9 Lancaster, Preston, Liverpool, Wigan, and Newton sent two members each, and the county two ; but
no return was made for Clitheroe during the whole period of the Commonwealth. Though the government
professed to be popular, the elective franchise was very much abridged during this period, and an estate of
two hundred pounds value was necessary to confer the right of voting. In other respects the elections were
unobjectionable, except that all those who had carried arms against the parliament, as well as their sons, were
prohibited from voting at the elections.
List of the knights of the shire for the county of Lancaster, from the Restoration to the present time:–
11 Charles II. * 1660. Sir Roger Bradshaw. e Edward Stanley.
12 2 3 * I661. The same . e & The same.
29 2 3 © 1678. Peter Bold . * º Charles Gerrard.
32 2 3 g 1681. Sir Charles Houghton & The same.
36 2 3 * 1685. Sir Roger Bradshaw g James Holt.
3 James II. . e I688. Lord Brandon † * Sir Charles Houghton.
1 William and Mary 1690. James Stanley e g Ralph Ashton.
7 William III. º 1695. The same . tº g The same.
10 2 3 e 1698. The same . g g Fitton Garrerd.
13 5 5 & 1701. The same . * º Robert Bold.
14 2 3 g 1702. The same . g † The same.
3 Anne & g 1705. The same . * & Richard Shuttleworth.
6 , , g & 1708. The same . g tº The same.
8 , , e e 1710. The same . t g The same.
11 , , g & 1713. Sir John Bland * º The same.
12 , , tº º 1714. The same . e The same.
8 George I. . * 1722. The same . g º The same.
13 2 3 & & 1727. Sir Edward Stanley. e The same.
7 George II. . iº 1734. The same . g º The same.
14 2 2 g & 1741. Lord Strange & e The same.
20 2 3 º * 1747. The same . * f The same.
27 2 3 & * 1754. The same . e & Peter Bold.
1 George III. º 1761. The same . ſº & James Shuttleworth.
2 3 2 & 1762. J. Smith (Lord Strange) . James Shuttleworth, Esq.
8 2 3 g 1768. The same . e g Lord Arch. Hamilton. "
Richard L. W. Molyneux . Sir Thos. Egerton, Bart.
14 2 3 * 1774. E. Smith (Lord Stanley) . The same.
Hon. Thomas Stanley
Thomas Stanley, Esq.
20 2 2 e 1780. The same . * Sir Thomas Egerton, Bart.
24 2 3 º 1784. The same . . & e John Blackburne, Esq.
30 2 3 & I790. The same . tº e The same.
36 2 3 e 1796. The same . & te The same.
41 2 5 * 1801. The same . º º The same.
42 2 3 tº 1802. The same . & e The same.
46 2 2 - & 1806. The same . e tº The same.
* The reign of Charles II. is dated from the death of his royal father, in 1649, in the calendars; and that chronology is adopted in
this list, though his reign did not commence de facto till 1660. º
102
(The #istorg of 3 antaghire.
CHAP. VIII.
47 George III. 1807. Thomas Stanley, Esq. John Blackburne, Esq.
53 2 5 º 1812. Lord Stanley © The same.
59 3 5 º 1819. The same , The same.
1 George IV. 1820. The same The same.
7 3 3 I826. The same The same.
1 William IV. e 1830. The same John Wilson Patten, Esq.
2 2 3 9. 1831. The same
Benjamin Heywood, Esq.
MEMBERs ELECTED SINCE THE PASSING OF THE REFORM ACT.
Since the passing of the Reform Act in 1832, there have been nine parliaments, the general elections for which were in December
1832, January 1835, August 1837, July 1841, August 1847, July 1852, March 1857, April 1859, and July 1865. The first two of
these parliaments were in the reign of William IV., the last seven in that of her present Majesty; and the parliament elected in
July 1865 is styled the seventh parliament of Queen Victoria. As in 1832 a new parliamentary era commenced, we give the numbers
of registered electors in 1832 and 1865, and the number of votes polled for each candidate at every contested election. By the
Reform Act the county of Lancaster was separated into two divisions for representative and electoral purposes, usually termed
North and South Lancashire.
& Elections,
Lancashire, North (Two Members). 1832, Dec. Sir T. Hesketh, Bart. (C) 3082
Electors in 1832, 6593—In 1865, 13,006. 1835, Jan. Lord F. Egerton & (C) 5620
JElections. |Hon. R. B. Wilbraham . º (C) 4729
1832, Dec. Right Hon. E. G. Stanley Q b (L) Wiscount Molyneux . º (L) 4626
John Wilson Patten . º º (C) George W. Wood e - (L) 4394
On Mr. Stanley becoming Colonial Secretary: 1837, Aug. Lord F. Egerton - - (C) 7 822
1833, March. Right Hon. E. G. Stanle º (L) Hon. R. B. Wilbraham . w (C) 1645
1835, Jan. Lord Stanley . & g * (L) Edward Stanley º - (L) 6576
John Wilson Patten . º º (C) Charles Towneley (L) 6044
1837, Aug. Lord Stanley . º - - (L) 1841, July. Lord F. Egerton * (C)
John Wilson Patten . - - (C) Hon. R. B. Wilbraham. º (C)
1841, July Lord Stanley . © t; © (C) On decease of Mr. Wilbraham :
John Wilson Patten . • º (C) 1844, May. William Entwisle e º (C) 757 I
On Lord Stanley again becoming Colonial Secretary: William Brown .. º (L) 6973
1841, Sept. Lord Stanley . º º & (C) On Lord Francis Egerton becoming Earl of Ellesmere :
On Lord Stanley's accepting the Chiltern Hundreds and 1846, June. William Brown º - )
being then created a peer : 1847, Aug. William Brown. e e (L)
1844, Sept. J. Talbot Clifton . (Protec.) Hon. C. P. Williers . . º (L)
1847, Aug. J. Wilson Patten º -> & (C) On Mr. Williers electing to sit for Wolverhampton :
James Heywood & e º (L) 1847, Dec. Alexander Henry tº g
1852, July John Wilson Patten . º * (C) 1852, July William Brown º - (L)
James Heywood - -> © (L) John Cheetham º * (L)
1857, March. John Wilson Patten . - - (C) 1857, March. William Brown º (L)
Lord Cavendish º - - (L) ... John Cheetham º - P} -
1859, April. John Wilson Patten . - º (C) 1859, April. Hon. A. Egerton º º Ø 7470
Marquis of Hartington . - - (L) W. J. Legh • º (C) 6983
1865, July. John Wilson Patten . º - (C) John Cheetham º e (L) 6835
Marquis of Hartington . - - (L) . . J. P. Heywood º . . ... (L) 6753
On Mr. Patten accepting the Chancellorship of the Duchy of A third seat having been granted to this constituency :
Lancaster : 1861, Aug. Charles Turner & 9714
1867, July. John Wilson Patten . e - (C) John Cheetham, • -> (L) 8898
1865, July. Hon. Algernon Egerton. º (C) 9167
Lancashire, South (Two Members), Charles Turner lad - ( º 8801
Electors in 1832, 10,039–In 1865, 21,555. tºº 9 :
1832, Dec. George W. WOO(l º º (L) 5694 H. Yates Thompson º - (L) 7703
Wiscount Molyneux . © (L) 5575 James P. Heywood ſº & (L) 76531
Of all the old Lancashire boroughs, Liverpool alone has risen into eminence ; and for this distinction it
seems indebted rather to the local advantages of its marine situation than to its chartered privileges. Preston
has at all times occupied a high station amongst the towns of the county; but for several centuries it was
perfectly stationary in its wealth and population ; and it was not till its corporate restrictions were materially
relaxed that it began to increase in either. The other boroughs of the county have not undergone any
material changes in the lapse of ages, while a number of the other towns of Lancashire have been increasing
within the last century in a ratio altogether unexampled.
For many years, and indeed for some ages, the political character of the county representation has dis-
played itself in a division of the return of members between the Stanley family, as the head of the Whig
party, and the Tory interest, of which John Blackburne, Esq., the venerable proprietor of Hale Hall, was the
organ; but at the general election in 1831, the disposition of the county in favour of the then pending
reform bill (of which the most conspicuous features were its disfranchising the decayed boroughs, and con-
ferring the elective franchise on many of the populous unrepresented towns of the county) was so strong, that
1 In the Reform Bill of 1867, Mr. Disraeli's scheme for the
re-distribution of seats proposed to divide North Lancashire into
North and North-East Lancashire ; and South Lancashire into South-
East and South-West Lancashire, giving two members to each of the
four divisions. According to a parliamentary return the population
of each of these divisions, by the census of 1861, would be —North,
161,524; North-East (inclusive of Burnley), 212,965; South-East
(inclusive of Stalybridge), 364,282; and South-West (inclusive of
St. Helen's), 263,374,-H.
CELAP. VIII. (ſhe #istory of 3Lancashire. 103
this tacit arrangement was no longer acted upon, but two members were returned, both of them in favour Of
the new system. *
That “poverty and debility,” which for so long a period induced the inhabitants of all the parliamentary
boroughs in the county of Lancaster to suffer their elective rights to sink into abeyance, now no longer exist,
but have given place to an amount of wealth and population which fully entitles most of its boroughs, and several
other towns in the county, to send their representatives to the national councils. By the provisions of the
Reform Act of 1832, 2 Will. IV. cap. 45, passed 7th June, the representation of the county of Lancaster and
its boroughs stood thus:—
Members.
Lancaster, Preston, Liverpool, and Wigan (2 members each, and unaltered) . g * 8
Newton (disfranchised) . e sº e * g º g p º g * ()
Clitheroe, instead of two members, to return , e s * g t $ * 1
Lancashire, instead of two members, to return—
North Lancashire 2
South Lancashire 2
New Boroughs.
Manchester & 2
Ashton-under-Lyne I
Bolton-le-Moors 2
Blackburn º g & 2
Bury . & & g * I
Oldham s g o 2
|Rochdale e t g º tº s re g & I
Salford t * & t e tº & g º 1
Warrington . 3. * º o * º 2 º * I
26
Before the Reform Act, Lancashire and its boroughs returned 14 members to parliament; so that the
increased number for the county and boroughs by that act was 12, or nearly double. Since then, South
Lancashire has had an additional member given to it ; now returning 3 knights.
104 - CŞt #t3torm of 3Lancašijire. CHAP. IX
CHAPTER IX.
Lancashire History in the Reign of Edward III.-Pestilence—Creation of the First Duke of Lancaster—Heavy Imposts on
the People of the Duchy—Death of the First Duke of Lancaster—His Will and Possessions—Administration of
the First Duke, from the Rolls of the Duchy—Renewal of the Dukedom in the person of John of Gaunt—The
Franchise of jura regalia confirmed, and extended in favour of the Duke of Lancaster—Continuance of the Royal
Bounty to the House of Lancaster-A.D. 1327 to 1379.
NE of the most spirit-stirring periods in the early annals of Lancashire is that comprehended
jºk in the long reign of Edward III., at which, in the Order of our history, we have now arrived.
§§ºj}} %) In this reign, the estates of the house of Lancaster, forfeited by the defection of the head of
ºč that house, were restored and augmented; the ducal dignity was conferred upon Henry, the
w ºfº) first duke of Lancaster, and the second duke created in England; the county was erected into
} Y As % a palatinate jurisdiction, with jura regalia ; and John of Gaunt, the distinguished ornament of
the ducal house, flourished in princely splendour in the exercise of regal functions. To add to the interest
of this portion of our history, the public records of the kingdom abound with authentic materials; and our
difficulty has arisen, not from the deficiency, but from the redundancy, of those materials, which, being too
copious to be published in detail, can only be presented in selection, and often by close abridgment.
One of the first acts of Edward III., on ascending the throne, was to relax the severity of those decrees
under which Thomas, earl of Lancaster, by the advice of the vindictive Despensers, had been doomed to the
block, and the estates of the earl, as well as of his followers, to confiscation. Edmund de Nevill, by petition
laid before the king in council, humbly represented that at the command of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, in
whose service he was, he had arrayed certain persons to arrest Hugh le Despenser and others of the coun-
sellors of the late king, for which offence he had been fined one hundred marks; of this fine he had paid
thirty marks into the exchequer, which he prayed might be accepted in discharge of his fine, and which request
the king was pleased graciously to grant." An order from his Majesty in council to the sheriff of Lancashire,
issued in 1327, directs that the lands of Richard de Holand, who had been engaged in the quarrel of Thomas,
earl of Lancaster, against the Despensers, should be restored and delivered into his hands; and the king, by
the assent of parliament, ordered writs to be directed to the treasurer and barons of the exchequer for releasing
from fines and confiscation those who had joined Thomas, earl of Lancaster, against his Majesty's deceased
father, in the battle of Boroughbridge.” But the consummation of all this clemency was in the reversal of
the attainder, and the cessation of all proceedings against Thomas, earl of Lancaster, on the petition of his
brother and heir, Henry, the now earl, to whom all the estates forfeited by his deceased brother, were restored
by a special act of grace, dated the 3d of March 1328. The order of restoration of the lands, profits, castle,
and honor of Lancaster to Henry, earl of Lancaster, is directed to John de Lancaster, warden or keeper of
the honor of Lancaster; Geofrey de Werburton, sheriff of Lancaster; Edmund de Assheby, keeper of the
fees of the honor of Lancaster; and to the various other officers of that honor.” As if it had been intended
to propitiate the manes of the deceased earl, a brief was issued from York to Robert de Weryington, clerk,
enabling him to collect alms in various parts of the kingdom to defray the cost of the erection of a chapel, to
be built on the site where Thomas, earl of Lancaster, had been recently beheaded.
The war with Scotland still continued, and the incursions of the Scots exposed the inhabitants of the
northern counties of England to the most severe suffering. The young king, anxious to avenge the wrongs
committed upon his subjects, placed himself at the head of his army; to increase which, he directed his
mandate to the commissioners of array of cavalry and infantry, in the county of Lancaster, announcing that
the Scots were preparing to invade the kingdom, and ordering them to prepare with arms all the men in the
county, between the ages of sixteen and sixty, to join the king at Durham." The effect of this expedition
was to free the country from the invaders, by the overthrow of the Scots army; and the death of Robert
Bruce, king of Scotland, which occurred on the 7th of June 1329, prevented any further active hostility
1 1 Edw. III. (1327), p. 1. m. 21. Turr. Lond. memorable insurrection, of whom many were killed or taken
* The roll of the battle of Boroughbridge, in possession of C. W. prisoners, exclusive of a great number of knights of somewhat in-
W. Wynn, Esq., published in Division II. of the Parliamentary ferior note, who were captured, and their lands confiscated by
Writs, and Writs of Summons (Append. 188), serves to show the Edward II., but principally restored by his successor.
extent of this rebellion, and the quality of the rebels. No fewer 3 *
than three hundred and fifty barons and knights had arrayed them- 2 Edw. III. p. 1. m. 18. Turr. Lond.
selves under the banners of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, in this * Rot. Scot, 1 Edw. III. m. 4. Turr, Lond.
º







CHAP. IX. - (Iije Đígtorg of £ancashire. 105
between the two countries for some years. At this time the county of Lancaster was much disturbed; large
bodies of armed men assembled in the hundreds of Salford and West Derby, to the alarm of the peaceable
inhabitants, and the insecurity of their property and lives. To put an end to this state of things, the king
addressed his warrant (in 1328) to the sheriff of Lancashire, commanding him to make public proclamation,
that whoever should in future assemble in this way, would be subject to imprisonment and the loss of their
arms. This measure does not appear to have had the desired effect. It was found necessary in 1329 to
appoint a commission, consisting of John de Haryngton, Thomas de Lathom, Richard de Houghton, Richard
de Kigheley, and Gilbert de Warburton, as guardians of the public peace. In the proclamation by which
this commission was accompanied, it is stated that great multitudes of vagabonds and others assemble
illegally together, by day and by night, watching the passes through woods and other places, both public
and private, and that these banditti waylay travellers, beating, wounding, and abusing them; killing some
of them, maiming others, and robbing all of them of their property. The functions of the guardians of the
peace were very extensive; they were no less than the powers of inquiring into offences, and of correcting and
punishing the offenders at their own discretion. While the government were punishing the outrages of the
lawless, they were not unmindful of the oppressions and delinquencies practised by their own servants; and
hence we find that, in 1330, a writ was issued by the king's authority to the sheriff of Lancashire, reciting
that, in consequence of the representation that divers oppressions and hardships had been inflicted on the
inhabitants by men in authority, he was to make proclamation that whoever had suffered oppression and
injustice, contrary to the laws and usages of the realm, should make known their grievances to the next
parliament, through the two knights of the shire, to be sent from this county to that parliament.”
The county was now threatened with a fresh war. The regency, by which the Scotch nation was
governed during the minority of the prince, declined to recognise the claims of Edward Baliol, whose cause
the English king had espoused, and taillage was levied of a fifteenth, to enable him to carry on the war, of
which William de Denum, Thomas de Banenburgh, and Robert de Tughole, were appointed the assessors in
the northern counties of Lancaster, Northumberland, Cumberland, and Westmorland; while Henry de
Percy was appointed warden of the marches. The demands upon Lancashire were not confined to money;
a levy of four hundred archers and one hundred hobelers, very strong and able-bodied men, fully accoutred,
was required from this county, and John de Denum, Edward Nevil, and Robert de Shireburn, were
appointed to array the levy.” At the same time, a writ of summons was addressed to Henry, earl of Lan-
caster, directing him to join the king at Newcastle-upon-Tyne, on the Feast of the Holy Trinity (Sunday,
June 14, 1332). In the meantime, the Scots forces had penetrated into the northern counties, and spread
so much alarm by their homicides and devastations, that a writ was issued to the sheriff of Lancashire,
announcing that the king, for the protection of the inhabitants, permitted them to withdraw themselves,
with their goods and cattle, out of the county into the southern parts of the kingdom, and there to remain,
wherever they chose in the king's woods, forests, and pastures, during their pleasure, and to graze their
cattle in the same without making any payment for so doing. It was also announced that similar commands
had been given to the bishop of Durham, and to the sheriffs of Northumberland, Nottingham, and Derby.”
Signal and speedy vengeance was inflicted upon the Scots for this violation of the English territory. The
king, who was then at Pontefract, at the head of a powerful army, on his way to the north, marched forward
to Berwick, in which garrison the regent Douglas had fortified himself. After a protracted siege, a general battle
ensued (July 19, 1333), in which Douglas was killed, and nearly thirty thousand of the Scots troops fell in
the action, in which, according to Knyghton, the loss of the English amounted only to one knight, one squire,
and thirteen private soldiers l—a loss, as the historian Hume observes, so small as almost to be incredible.
The taillage, or tallage, collected in this reign, as mentioned above, was a kind of occasional property-
tax. In the 11 Henry III. (1226-7) a taillage was made in Lancashire, which serves as a barometer by
which to measure the relative importance of the principal towns of the county in the thirteenth century.
The impost was assessed by “Master Alexander de Dorsete and Simon de Hal,” and the payments were for—
Marks, s. d.
The town of Lancaster g . [É8: 13:4] . e xiij.
The town of Liverpool g . [7: 14:4] . tº xj. Vij. viii.
The town of West Derby . & [5 : 1:0] . º vij. Vij. viii.
The town of Preston . tº . [10 : 0:6] . . XV. ... Vj.
The tenants in thanage paid X. marks (£6 : 13:4) to have respite, that they might not be taillaged." It is
remarkable that neither Manchester nor Salford is mentioned in this early return to his Majesty's exchequer,
and that Wigan, though one of the ancient boroughs of the county, is also omitted.
On the marriage of the king's sister Alionora to the earl of Gueldres, an order was issued to the abbot
1 Claus. 2 Edw. III. Im. 20 d. Turr. Lond. * Claus. 7 Edw. III. p. 1. m. 18. Turr. Lond.
* Claus. 4 Edw. III. Im. 18 d. Turr. Lond.
8 Pat. 6 Edw. III. p. 3. m. 18. Turr. Lond. * Mag, Rot. 11 H. III, Rot. 1. a. Lancastre.
106
Ǻr #istory of 3Lancašijire. CHAP. IX.
of Furness, and to the priors of Burscough, Up-Holland, and Hornby, as well as to the abbot of Whalley
and to the priors of Kertmell and Coningshead, requiring them to levy the subsidy on their respective houses,
towards the maritagium, an impost of early times, which ceased with the feudal system. This order the
priests were slow to obey, in consequence of which another letter was issued by the king from Pontefract,
reminding them of their neglect, and ordering them to communicate their intention to the proper authority.
No further documents appear on the subject ; and it may be presumed that this second application produced
the desired effect. The abbot of Peterborough, in order to show his attachment to the king, and to secure
the favour of the noble family whose influence at this time prevailed in his Majesty's councils, presented
Edward with a splendid service of plate, amongst which was a silver-gilt cup with a scuchon, on which were
engraved the arms of “Lancaster.” -
The danger of invasion from the Scotch, which prevailed so frequently during the reign of Edward III.,
induced that monarch to issue an order to Robert de Shireburn and Edmund de Neville, directing them to
enforce, in the county of Lancaster, the statute of Winton, for arming and arraying the inhabitants according
to their respective estates in land.” -
England being again involved in war with France, the king determined to embark for the Continent,
partly to direct its operations, but principally to animate by his presence that extensive confederacy which he
had organised against Philip, the French king. This intention was announced in Lancashire by a writ
directed to John de Haryngton, Edmund de Nevill, and Richard de Houghton, knights, by which they were
directed, along with other knights, to be in their proper persons “present before the king in council at
Westminster, the day after Easter (1338), to hear what he had to expound to them for their conduct
during his absence on most urgent business, in parts across the sea,” and with the further purpose of
receiving instructions to preserve the peace inviolate during his absence.” Although parliaments had then
been only very recently instituted upon the model of popular representation, the royal influence began
already to exert itself to obtain the return of such members to the House of Commons as would best secure
the king's purpose, by granting him large Supplies out of the public revenue; and this appears to have
been the object of Edward in summoning these knights by the authority of his own writ. The parliament
which was convened on the recommendation of this council (March 27, 1340) made a grant for two years of
the ninth sheaf of corn, and the ninth lamb and fleece, on their estates; and from the burgesses, of a ninth
of their movables, at the true value. The same parliament also granted a duty of forty shillings on each
sack of wool exported, on each three hundred woolfells, and on each last of leather, for the same term ;
declaring, however, that this grant was not to be drawn into a precedent. But in order to facilitate the
supply, and to meet the king's urgent necessities, they agreed that he should be allowed twenty thousand
sacks of wool, the amount to be deducted from the movables when they were levied. Local treasuries
became necessary, as depositories for the sums collected in the respective counties, and the abbot of Furness
accordingly received a command to provide a suitable house in his abbey for “the custody of the king's
pence.” A writ of summons was directed to the sheriff of Lancashire, ordering him to arrest the ships in
the ports, and to man and equip them for action." With the fleet, consisting of two hundred and forty sail,
principally collected in this way, the splendid victory of Sluys was obtained by Edward over the navy of
France in 1340, in which two hundred and thirty French ships were taken, and thirty thousand Frenchmen
killed, along with their two admirals, while the loss of the English was comparatively inconsiderable.”
Although this signal victory gave to the navy of England a superiority which it has never since
lost, the alarm of invasion spread very generally, and, amongst other preparations made to repel the invaders,
it was ordered (in 1339) that fifty men-at-arms, three hundred armed men, and three hundred archers, should
be raised in this county, of which number twenty-five men-at-arms and one hundred and twenty archers were
to be contributed by the following gentlemen:"—“John de Haryngton, for himself and his father, ten men-
at-arms and forty archers; Robert de Radeclif, five men-at-arms and forty archers; and Henry de Trafford,
ten men-at-arms and forty archers.”
The warlike spirit of the king had involved him in hostilities both with Scotland and France; and in
the following year a writ of military summons was issued to Gilbert de Clyderowe and to Robert de Radeclyf.
ordering them to assemble the men-at-arms and archers under their command to meet the king at Carlisle,
by Quadragesima Sunday (March 5, 1340), to repel the invasion of the Scots." At the same time, John de
Helleker, the king's receiver for Lancashire, was ordered to send money to Carlisle, towards repairing the
fortresses of that city, and the abbot of Furness was commanded to provide a suitable house in his abbey for
1 Claus. 7 Edw. III. p. 1. m. 23. Turr. Lond.
* The statute of Winton, passed 13 Edward I. (1285) requires
that persons possessing fifteen pounds in land or upwards, and
chattels of the value of forty marks, shall provide themselves with a
haberject or habergeon (a steel or leather breastplate, haberjonem),
an iron cap, a sword, a cultel (dagger-knife), and a horse; of ten
pounds in land, and chattels value twenty marks, a habergeon,
sword, and cultel; of one hundred shillings in land, a purpoint,
iron cap, Sword, and cultel ; of forty shillings in land, and more
up to a hundred shillings, a sword, a bow, arrows, and cultel ; and
he who had less than forty shillings in land, to be sworn to keep
falchions, gisarms, knives, and other Small arms. The hand-gisarm
was a short bill with serrated edge.
8 Claus. 12 Edw. III. p. 1 m, 37 d. Turr, Lond.
* Rot. Aleman. 12 Edw. III. p. 1 m. 23, Turr. Lond.
* Froissart, liv. i. chap. 51.
0 Rot. parl. 13 Edw. III. vol. ii. p. 110.
7 Ibid. 13 Edw. III.
CHAP. IX. (The #istorm of 3Lancashire. 107
the custody of the king's pence. To the joy of the people, a proclamation was this year (1340) received in
Lancashire and in the other counties of England, commanding the sheriff to publish a truce between the king
and Philip de Valois, and between the English and the Scotch. Little reliance, however, appears to have
been placed upon the permanent restoration of tranquillity, for in 1341 the sheriff of Lancashire was ordered
to provide one hundred bows and one thousand sheaves of arrows, for the expedition into France." This was
speedily followed by another to the sheriff, directing him to provide a thousand sheaves of steel-headed arrows,
and a thousand bow-strings.
In the war with France, which was speedily renewed, Henry, earl of Derby, son of the earl of Lancaster,
greatly distinguished himself;” and the events of this war, in which the French king was taken prisoner, shed
an imperishable renown on the military character of England. For the prosecution of the contest large
levies were raised in all the counties of the kingdom ; and an order was directed by the king to the sheriff
of Lancashire (in 1345), commanding him to make proclamation that all barons, bannerets, knights, and
esquires in the county, between the age of sixteen and sixty, should be forthwith prepared, with horses and
arms, to attend the king across the Sea, to enable him to put a speedy and successful termination to the war.”
Not only the noble, but the ignoble also were embarked in this service, and the sheriff received soon after a
writ of military service, commanding him to make public proclamation that all persons in his county who
had been found guilty of felonies, homicides, robberies, and other offences, and had been pardoned by the
king's clemency, should provide themselves with arms and accoutrements, and march to join the royal army
on its embarkation at Portsmouth for France.
The Scots, under David Bruce, availing themselves of the opportunity which the absence of the English
forces afforded, prepared to invade the northern counties; on which a writ was addressed by the king to the
sheriff of Lancashire (1345), announcing the danger of the country, and ordering him to make proclamation
that all the men of the county should remove their live stock to the forest of Galtres, in the county of York,
where they might be preserved in Safety, and where the flocks and herds would enjoy pasturage free of
charge." The king of England being engaged in the French wars, aided by his son the Black Prince, and by
the earl of Derby, Queen Philippa assembled a body of soldiers to repel the Scotch invaders. This force,
under the command of Lord Percy, met at Neville's Cross (1346) with the determination to revenge the
insults which had been offered to the country, and to put an end to the violations which had been committed
upon the property of the inhabitants. Animated, in that chivalrous age, to the highest pitch of enthusiasm
by the presence of the queen, who rode along their ranks previous to the battle, the English troops, though
not numerically amounting to one-fourth of the number of the Scotch, fought like lions. The enemy was
broken and driven off the field, and fifteen thousand of them were made to bite the dust, amongst whom was
the earl marshal of Scotland. To crown this memorable victory, David Bruce, the Scotch king, was made
prisoner, and conveyed to London, along with a number of his captive nobles, in triumph.” The number of
prisoners taken in this battle was so large as to fill all the prisons of Lancashire. The inhabitants, in order
to relieve themselves from the burden of the support of so many prisoners, liberated a number of them, in
the hope that they would return to their own country; but instead of pursuing this course, they began to
commit depredations; on which the government instituted a commission, consisting of Thomas de Latham,
John de Haryngton the younger, and Nicholas le Botiller, to make inquisition into the alleged liberations,
and to announce that the persons guilty of this offence against the public safety would be liable to the
forfeiture of life and limbs (1346)." - * ,
In order to reinstate the English navy in its former strength, after the splendid victory of Sluys, a tax
somewhat resembling that attempted to be imposed by Charles I., though unattended by its disastrous conse-
quences, was levied in the seaports of Liverpool and Chester, under the authority of an order from the king,
by which the collectors of the ship-money were directed to collect the subsidy of two shillings the sack on
wool, and sixpence the pound on movables, for sixty large ships of war (grossis navibus de guerra), and to
deliver the money so assessed to the admiral of the fleet of those ports. A contribution was also made in
Lancashire, in favour of Edmund Baliol, king of Scotland, the nominee of Edward, king of England; and
Richard Molineaux and his associates, collectors of the triennial tenths recently granted to the king, were
ordered to transmit one hundred and eighty-four pounds, in two instalments, out of the sums collected for
the king's exchequer (1349)."
At this time a pestilence of the most fatal character raged in the county of Lancaster, and indeed in all
the other counties of the kingdom; and so malignant were its effects that one-third of the inhabitants became
its victims. According to Stowe, the annalist, fifty thousand persons died of this plague in the city of
Norwich, and an equal number were interred in one burial-ground in the city of London (1349).
1 The price of bows is fixed in the government order at one 8 Rot. Franc. 19 Edw. III. p. 2 m. 12, Turr. Lond.
shilling each, which sum is also to be allowed for a sheaf of arrows, * Claus. 19 Edw. III. p. 2 m. 10 d. Turr. Lond.
except when they are guarded with steel (aceratae), and then the 5 Froissart, liv. i. c. 139.
charge is to be one shilling and twopence. 9 Rot. Scot. 20 Edw. III. m. 4 d. Turr. Lond.
* See c. iv. p. 36. 7 23 Edw. III.
108 Qſìje #igtorg of 3 antašijire. char. IX.
The brilliant career pursued in France by Henry, earl of Lancaster and Derby, determined the king to
confer upon him a signal mark of the royal favour, by creating him duke of Lancaster." The origin of this
title is thus represented by the heralds:—
“The first creation of the title of duke, as distinct from that of earl (for in the elder times they were oft synonymous with us)
was in the eleventh year of Edward the Third (1337), when in parliament he conferred upon his eldest son, being then earl of Chester,
the title of duke of Čornwall. The investiture of this first duke Was Only by girding him with the Sword, although some learned men,
confounding, it seems, the ceremonies of his being afterwards made prince of Wales, with this creation into the title of duke, say
he was invested by a ring, a rod, and a coronet, all of which indeed together are mentioned in some patents of the following times,
that seem to create the eldest sons dukes of Cornwall, as well as princes of Wales, and earls of Chester. The same investiture also,
by the sword only, is mentioned in the creation of Henry, the first duke of Lancaster, about fourteen years after this first creation
of the duke of Cornwall. He was created for life in parliament, and the clause of investiture in the charter is only nomen ducis
Lancastriae imponimus & ipsum de nomine ducis dicti loci, per cincturam gladii praesentialiter investimus; and the county of
Lancaster as a county palatine, with reference to that of Chester, for example of jurisdiction, is given to him as the body of his
duchy.” Afterward, in 36, Edw. III. (1862), on the last day of the parliament, Lionel, duke of Clarence, and John, duke of
Lancaster, both sons to the king, were honoured with those titles, Lionel being then in Ireland; but the other being present, had
investiture by the king's girding him with a sword, and his putting him on a cap of fur, desus in cercle d'or & de peres, as the roll
says—that is, under a coronet of gold and stones.” -
Soon after the first establishment of the duchy of Lancaster, heavy complaints were made by the inhabi-
tants, in consequence of the twofold pressure of taxation; first, for the support of the state, and next, for the
maintenance of the institutions of the duchy. To alleviate their burdens, the king addressed a mandate to
the duke of Lancaster, or to his lieutenant and chancellor, wherein it was directed, that all general inquisitions
concerning felonies and trespasses in every part of the kingdom should cease, so long as the people remained
peaceable, and particularly that the people in the duchy of Lancaster, who had been impeded in their business,
and reduced to great poverty, by the inquisitions made in the duchy, should no longer be burdened in this way.
The duke was therefore ordered to supersede all such proceedings within his duchy, and to administer the law
in the same manner as in other parts of the kingdom. The same year the king addressed a proclamation to all
admirals, their lieutenants and sheriffs, appointing Roger del Wych, John Syword, John Cruys, and William,
son of Adam de Lyverpol, to arrest as many ships in Liverpool and Chester, and other ports, as were necessary
to convey Thomas de Rocheby, the king's justiciary of Ireland, into that country. The difficulty of procuring
labourers in husbandry after the country had been so much thinned of its population by the plague [of 1349],
disinclined the working classes to take the usual rate of wages for their labour, and an act was in consequence
passed “to restrain the malice of servants,” who insisted upon extravagant wages (outrageouses lowers). The
standard of wages fixed by this act was that which had prevailed voluntarily before the plague broke out,
when corn was tenpence a bushel, and wages fifteen pence a week. This law being in opposition to the
general principle of trade, which causes the supply and the demand to regulate the price, failed in its object,
and the labourers left their usual places of abode, to seek more profitable employment, which they easily found
from home. The strong arm of the law was again called in, and it was enacted that no servant should in
summer go out of the town or parish where he usually dwelt in winter, if he could obtain employment there;
with a proclamation dispensing with the law in favour of the labourers in the counties of Lancaster, Stafford,
and Derby, and in the districts of Craven and the marches of Wales, who were allowed to go in the month of
August, the season of harvest, to work in other counties; and persons refusing to obey this proclamation were
to be put in the stocks by the lords and stewards, or, if that discipline did not prove sufficient, they were to
be sent to the next prison, and there confined for three days (1359).” i
During the king's absence in France, Henry, duke of Lancaster, was summoned to attend the council,
which duty he performed with his usual fidelity. This was amongst the last public acts of that venerable
peer: for in the month of March in the following year, 1361, he expired without male-heirs, on which his
honours and his princely possessions descended to his two daughters, Maud and Blanche, whose names, however,
are not even mentioned in his will. -
WILL OF HENRY, DUKE OF LANCASTER.
In this will, dated at the Castle of Leicester, 15th March 1360, his titles are set forth as Duke of Lancaster, Earl of Derby, of
Lincoln, and of Leicester, Steward of England, Lord of Bruggerak [Brigerac) and of Beſalufort. . After long directions as to his
funeral and burial in the Collegiate Church of the Annunciation of our Lady at Leicester, the duke devises all his goods, silver
plate, and all other movables, to pay his debts and to “guerdon” his poor servants, each according to merit and estate, and to
fulfil his bequests to the Church, etc. He appoints, as his executors, “John [Sinwen or Gynwell], bishop of Lincoln, the honourable
home of holy religion, William, abbot of Leicester, our dearest sister the Lady Wak, our dearest cousin of Walkynton, Robert la Mare,
John de Bokelande, Sir John de Charnele, Sir Walter Power, Sinkyn Simeon, and John de Neumarche.” He devises all his goods,
beyond what suffice to pay his debts and reward his servants, and fulfil his bequests to the Church, to be applied “to the profit of
our soul,” by the advice and consent of the executors. The will was proved the 3d of the Kalends of April §. 30] 1361, in the
castle of Leicester, before John, bishop of Lincoln ; and again before Sir William de Witleseye, official of the Court of Canterbury, at
Iondon, on the 7th of the Ides of May [9th May] 1361.—Regist. Islip, fol. 172 a b, in the Archiepiscopal Registry at Lambeth.
The extent and magnitude of the possessions of the first duke of Tancaster, forming as they do the
principal part of the duchy, may be in some degree estimated from the following enumeration exhibited in the
Inquisitio Post Mortem in the records of the Tower of London, taken in 36 Edw. III. (1362).
1 25 Edw. III, 1351. * See c. iv. p. 37. 8 Claus. 33 Edw. III. Im. 5 d. Turr. Lond.
CHAP. IX. Qſìje 3%igturn of 3Lancagüirº. 109
INQUISITION POST MORTEM
OF THE POSSESSIONS OF THE FIRST DURE OF LAN CASTER.
“In the County of Lancaster.—Lancaster castle & honor—Pleas of the county of Lancaster—West Derbyshire bailiwick—
Lonesdale wapentake—Lancaster vill—LOne Water, fishery near Prestwait—Overton manor—Slyne vill—Skerton lands, &c.—
Quernemore park—Wiresdale vaccary—Blesdale vaccary—Caldre vaccary—Grisdale vaccary—Amunderness wapentake—Preston—
Singleton—Riggeby will with le Wray—Hydil park—Cadilegh—Fulwode wood—Kylaneshalghe-Broughton—Mirestagh park—
Wiggehalgh—Baggerburgh—Clyderhoo castle–Blakebornshire wapentake—Ightenhull manor—Colne manor, with members—
Woxton—Penhulton vill—Chateburne vill—Acrinton vill—Huncotes—Haselingden vill—Penhull chace—Trogden chace—Rossen-
dale chace–Totinton manor & chace—Hoddesden wood—Rachedale manor—Penwortham manor—Widnes manor—Ulleswalton
manor—Eccleston vill—Leylond vill—Lyverpoll castle—Westderby manor & Salford manor (as of the honor of Tuttebury)—Horneby
castle & manor—Werington manor—Laton manor.
“In the County of Leicester.—Leycester castle & honor extended—Frithe wood—Hynkeley manor extended—Schelton manor
extended—Derford manor extended—Selby, five views of frank-pledge—Carleton, four views of frank-pledge—Schulton, two views
of frank-pledge—Derford, two views of frank-pledge—Hynkeley, two views of frank-pledge.
“In the County of Dorset.—Kyngeston Lacy manor—Winterborn Minster—Wimbourne Holt chace—Bradbury hundred—
Shapwyk manor—Maiden Neuton hundred.
- “In the County of Southampton.—KyngeSomborne manor—Pernholt wood & chace—La Lond wood—Staunden–Earle—Eileden
-—Huld—Pernholt—Tymbrebury—Compton Houghton—Sumborne Parva–Upsomborne (land, &c.)—Stockbrigg vill–Langestoke
manor—Weston manor, near Odiam—Herteley manor. -
“In the County of Warwick.--Kenelworth castle and manor extended–Asthull manor—Wotton rent—Waddesley, Lapworth
rent—Mershton Boteler—Brinkelowe (lands and tenements)—Ilmedon, view of frank-pledge.
“In the County of Wilts.-Colingborne manor extended—Everlee manor extended—Lavyngton manor extended.
“In the County of Berks.--Esgarston manor extended—Poghele—Hungerford–Sandon—& Kentebury (land, &c).
“In the County of Derby.—Melborne castle & manor.
“In the County of York.-Pontefract castle & honor, with members, vizº—Slaikeborne manor—Bowland manor, with forest—
Snaith vill, with Soke—Pykering castle, vill, & honor—Scalby manor—Hoby manor—Esingwald manor—Bradeford manor—
Almanby manor—Ledes manor—Berewyke manor—Roundhaye manor—Scoles manor—Hypax manor—Allerton manor—Rothewell
manor—Altoftes manor—Warnefield manor—Ackworth manor—Elmesdale manor—Camesale manor—Custon’—Tanshelfe manor—
knottingleye manor—Boghall manor, with the free court of Pontefract—Divers lands and tenements, &c., in Maningham Barnboghe—
Woodhouse–Potterton—Hillum—Saxton—Roundhaye—Secroft—Thornore—Scole—Muston—Kypax manor—Ledeston—Allerton
—Ayer [Ayre] fishery—Rothewell–Flete mill—Wridelesford—Kildre fishery. T)ivers lands and tenements, &c. Warnefeld—
Crofton—Akeworth–Elmesle—Kerkeby Mensthrop—Suthelmsale–Coteyerd—Ellerker—Camesale–Balnehoke—Hargincrofte Ber-
nesdale—Custon–Holmhirst—Carleton Castleford mill—Hardewike—Knotingley—Beghale—Beghelker—Beghallund.
- “All the aforesaid belong to the Honor of Pontefract.
“Slaykeborne in Bouland, with the forest—Bremund pasture—Roudon–Ap Aldington—Maukholes—Crombewell—Holme—
Baxsterhay–Browesholme—Berkholm—Eghes—Latheringrime Bernardseless—Nicolshey—Wardeslegh—Hogeking—Heighe-
Crepingwarde—Benteley Close—Graistanley—Lekherst—Peinleghes–CoSwayne—Chipping Crosdale—Neuton—Hamerton Witton
—Grimlington—Salley mill—Bradeford in Bouland—Blakshelfe in Mitton—Withikill—Smithecrofte—Cowyke vill, belonging to the
soke of Snaythe-Roucliffe moor—Acre water fishery—Pikering castle, forest, &c., with the fees appertaining, vizº-Middleton—
Levesham Finhilwode—Gotherland—Aleintoftes—Thwaite—Lingthwaite–Rumbald–Haretoft—Folketon marsh—Ednesmershe—
Brumpton—Scalby—Hobye—Esingwolde—Credeling manor. Divers rents and reprises issue out of the manors aforesaid.
“In the County of Northumberland.-Dunstanburgh castle—Staumford barony, with its members—viz. Emeldon—Dunstan—
Burton—Warndam—Shipplay—Crauncestre—Fenton—Newton-on-the-Moor & Cartington.
“In the County of Huntingdom.—Huntingdon rent—Gomecestre rent.
“In the County of Rutland.—Tye, two leets—Casterton Magna, two leets.
“In the County of Worthampton.—Higham Ferrers—Raimdes vill—Russheden vill—Irchestre vill—Hegham hundred as of the
honor of Tuttebury—Davintre manor—Esthaddon, two leets—Helmingden–Lylleborne—DOdeford, two leets—Wedonbeck, as of
the honor of Leycester.
“In the County of Surrey.—Erwell, the tenement called Hertegrave.
“In the County of Middlesex.-London, the messuage called the Savoye, with shops & rents appertaining.
“In the County of Lincoln.—Lincoln county, 14 fees in the same belonging to the castle of Lancaster—Retrecombe court.
“In the County of Stafford.—Newcastle-under-Lyne manor, castle, & borough, with members viz. –Clayton will—Wolstanton
—Shelton vill—passage of the sea—Stoke, advowson of the church—Cliff wood—Bradenef lands & tenements.
“In the County of Hereford and Marches of Wales.—Monemouthe castle, vill, & demesne—Grossemont castle—Skenfrithe
lands, &c.—Album castle & demesne—Karakemmyn castle—Oggemore castle—Ebbothe manor—Iskennin commote—Kedwellye
demesne—Carnwathlon demesne or lordship.
“In the County of Gloucester and Marches of Wales.—Roddell manor—Eccelowe–Minsterworthe manor—Monemuthe castle—
Berton lands, &c.—Blakmorles pasture—Kedwelly castle, vill, & demesne.
“In the Counties of Gloucester, Hereford, and Marches of Wales.—Carnewathlan lordship—Lamanthir vill—Kaerkennyn castle
—Iskennyn commote—Ogemore castle & lordship—Ebbothe manor—Shen castle, with Barton—Album castle, with Barton—Ty-
burton manor—Minstreworth manor—Rodleye manor—Monemouthe castle & lordship—Grosmonde castle & lordship—Whitcastell
castle & lordship—Kedwelly lordship—Carnwathlan lordship—Ogemore castle—Ebbothe manor.

FEES.
“In the County of Bucks,—Tappelowe–Chalfhunt St. Peter—Saundesdron—Weston Turvile—Broughton Parva–Penna.
“In the County of Bedford.—Suthmulne—Middelton Erneys.
“In the County of Cambridge.—Grauncete.
“In the County of Worcester.—Bruites Morton.
“In the County of Lincoln.—Twelve Knights' Fees each of which renders yearly 10° for the castle-ward of Lancaster.
“In the County of Somerset.—Redene—North Overe.
“In the County of Dorset.—Shapewike—Swinetolre—Mayden Nyweton—Upsydelinge.
“In the County of Kent.—Strode—Godwineston–Clyve Hastinglegh—Braborne–Chelefeld manor—Horton—Caulstoke Hasshe.
“In the County of Sussex. —Scheffeld Parva–Kirsed — Kindale—Charlaxton—Flecching—Chiffeld—Hothore—Est Grinstede
—Hertefelde—Claverham—Erlington–Raketon—Torrenge—Westdene—Megham—Bethington—Telton–Cheleworth–Chiffield
manor in Flecching—Folyngton—Wennoke—Excete—Ratton.
“In the County of Oxon. —Churchull—Clapwell—Dene—Chalkeford–Fyffhyde"—Chadlyngton—Broughton—Nywenton–
Lyllingeston—Bagerugg–Pyriton—Hasele—Thomele—Brightwell—Shupton upon Charewell—Blechdon—Wighthull—Lynham—
&D
Childeston & Sewell near Goldmorton.
* This word, which occurs in three counties in this document, may not be a local name, but simply denote five hides of land.—H.
110 Qſìje #istorg of £ancašijire. CHAP. IX.
“In the County of Berks.--Fyfehide—Kingeston—Southdenchesworth—Loking—Cherleton near Wantynge—Staunden–Han-
rethe–Staunford—Westhildesle—Wolhampton—Northstanden chapel—Hungerford chapel of St. John.
“In the County of Wilts.-Choldrington, half-a-fee–Chitterne, half-a-fee—Elcomb, half-a-fee—Merevedene, one fee—
Wrichford, half-a-fee—Hordenehuuishe, one fee—Checkelowe, one fee—Berewike manor, one fee.
“In the County of Southampton.—Chalghton—Katerington—Erleston—Somborne—Fyffhide near Andover—Schalden–Bellum
Avenetum—Hertele–Langestoke—Weston—Estden—Semborne.
“In the County of Devon.—Hemly—Portheleg—Shillingford–Ferdon–Kerdogis—Ivelegh—Chilton—Coleton Ralegh—Fursan
–Whithem—Whiston–Hoddesworth–Maneton-Prank-arswike—Southwyk-Sprayton—Woreslegh—Whitneslegh—Wollegh
Wrix-ston—Godelee—Kippingiscote—Uppecote—Witherige—Hole Meleford—Clompton—Clift St. Lawrence—Hordelisworth–
Milleford—Deandon—Bourdouliston—Yowe–Hogeland & Heanis.
“In the Counties of Gloucester, Hereford, & Marches of Wales.—Landingate—Longehope—Doumameney—Huntelege—Wisham
—Walbykney–Parthir—Dile—Cunstone—Dixton—New Castle–Cothitham—Monimouthe-Garthe-Rakenilſ—Holywell
Grosemound–Chesterton—Asperton—Mayneston—Lanwarthin—Lanknethin in the lordship of Kedwelly—Penbray—Witewike—
Hope Maloisell, Llanelthye church, St. Ismael church, Lanconar church–In the lordship of Ogmore, the underwritten fees—viz.
Dourenen—Deynell—Pyncote—Lanforte—Colewinstone—Frogg Castell—Ewerdon—Puttes—Le Wike—Southdone & St. Bridget.
“In the County of Lancaster.—Walton in Blakebornshire—Crointon–Apulton—Sutton—Eccleston—Rainhull—Knowselegh—
Torbok—Hyton—Maghull–Crosseby Parva–Kirkebye–Kirkedale—Northmeles—Argameles—Ulneswalden–Bretherton–Hoghton
—Claiton—Whelton with Heparge—Wytherhull with Bothelesworthe-Hoton—Longeton—Leilond—Enkeston—Chenington—
Chernoke—Walshewhithull—Warton in Amoundernesse—Prees—Neuton–Frekelton—Witingham—Etheleswike—Bura in Salford-
shire—Middleton with members—Chatherton—Totinton—Mitton Parva—Wiswall—Hapton–Townlay Coldecotes—Snoddeworthe---
Twiselton—Extwisell—Aghton—Merlaye–Lyvesay—Donnom Fobrigge—Merlaye Parva–Rossheton—Billington—Alnethan—
Clayton–Harewode—Crofton Horneby—Ulideston—Warton in Lonesdale–Gairstang with members—Thiselton–Prees—Kelgrime-
sarghe-Brininge—Merton Magna—Middelton in Lonesdale—Neuton—Makerfeld—Lauton—Keinan—Erbury—Goldeburne–Sefton
—Thorneton—Kerdon—Halghton—Burgh—Lee—Fishwicke—Dalton in Furness—Stayninge—Midhope—Chernoke.
“The under-written fees are held of the Honor of Tuttebury. —Hagh Parva–Bolton–Brightmet—Compton—Burghton–
Childerwell—Barton in Salfordshire—Asphull—Brokholes—Dalton—Perbald—Withington—Lostok—Romworthe-Pilkinton–
Worthington—Hoton [Heaton] under Herewiche—Tildeslegh—Sulthithe—Rixton—Asteley—Atherton—Sonky—Penkythe-Ines–
Blundell—Barton—Halsale—Windehulle—Lydegate—Egergarthe—Lancaster priory, advowson—St. Michael-on-Wire church—
Preston church—Mary Magdalen chapel—Chypin church—Ribcaster church—Whalley, abbey of.
“FOR THE DEAN & CHAPTER OF THE CHURCH OF [ST.] MARY OF LEICESTER.—Preston, advowson of the church.
“FOR THE ABBOT & CONVENT OF WHALLEY. Romsgreve in the chace of Bouland near Blakeborne lands & tenements—Pen-
hulton lands & tenements—Cliderhow the tenement called Standen —Hulcrofte & Grenelache—Standen “faltag’ lands, &c.—Cliderhoo
manor, lands, &c., as of the castle of Lancaster.”

To this inquisition we are enabled to add a condensed transcription, from the Rolls of the Duchy of
Lancaster (not before published), extending through the whole period of the first ducal administration, and
which, while it sheds much light upon the early history, as well as upon the landed possessions in the county,
serves to illustrate the nature of the jura regalia exercised by the dukes of Lancaster in this “kingdom within
a kingdom :”— - -
ANNo 1 DUCATUs, 26 EDWARD III. [1851-2].1
(Office Reference A. 1.)
Intituled, “Pleas at Preston of three sessions of the Justices of the Lord the duke of Lancaster, in the first year of the
Lord the duke that now is.” -
This roll contains the essoigns taken at Preston, before Hugh de Berewyk and his associates, justices of our lord the duke of
Lancaster, Wednesday next before the feast of St. Margaret the Virgin, in the year of his duchy the 1st (July 13, 1351).
It contains pleadings of lands between parties, plaintiffs and defendants, pleadings of assize mortis antecessoris, novel disseisin,
pleas of debt, account, and trespass, and other claims to liberties, rights, etc., all as arising in the county palatine of Lancaster,
with the judgments thereof given (inter alia as follows):- -
“John of Winwick, parson of the church of Wygan, and lord of the borough of Wygan, appears by Robert de Prestcote or John
de Lanfield, to plead damage and the prosecution of all liberties of his will and borough of Wygan, according to the form of the
charter which the lord the king granted to him thereof.”
On the second portion of the roll, and on the first skin of such roll, after reciting the grant by King Edward III., in the 25th
year of his reign (1351), to Henry duke of Lancaster, earl of Derby, Lincoln, and Leicester, and steward of England, of his dukedom
of Lancaster, as therein set forth, are recorded the letters-patent to Hugh de Berewyk and others, by the said Henry, appointing
them justices of assize for his said duchy, and of pleas as well of the crown as others within the said duchy, to hold, hear, and
determine, according to the law and custom of the kingdom of England, saving to him amercements, etc. Tested at the Savoy, 7th
March, in the first year of his said duchy (1351).
In continuation of the roll are recorded a multiplicity of pleadings between various parties, to the following effect (anglicised
from the roll) — .
* As the ducal years of Henry, first duke, are neither conterminous with the regnal years of the reigning sovereign, nor with the year
of our Lord, the following tables are appended. The regnal years of Edward III. are from 25th Jan. to 24th Jan. The ducal years of
Henry, first duke, are from 6th March to the 5th March. About ten months of every ducal year consequently fall in one regnal year, and
the last two months of the ducal year fall in the next regnal year.—H.
DUCAL YEARS OF HENRY FIRST DUKE OF LANCASTER, REGNAL YEARS OF EDWARD III. IN THE SAME PERIOD,
1st, 6th March 1351 to 5th March 1352 25th. 6th March 1351 to 24th Jan. 1352
2d. 25 1352 23 1353 26th. 25th Jan. 1352 25 1353
3d. 35 1353 . 35 1354 27th. 55 1353 93 1354
4th. 25 1354 25 1355 28th. 35 1354 2, 1355
5th. 52 1355 25 1356 - 29th. 32 1355 52 1356
6th. 25 1356 22 1357 30th. 23 1356 23 1357
7th. 23 1357 25 1358 31st, 53 1357 92 I 358
8th. 32 1358 25 1359 32d. 52 1358 22 1359
9th. 22 1359 22 1360 33d. 52 I 359 53 I360
10th. 22 1360 35 1361 34th. 22 | 360 32 136].
11th. 25 1361 to 23d March 1361 35th. 92 1361 to 23d March 1361
when the duke died. when the duke died.
CHAP. IX. (Tijt #istory of 3Lancashire. 111
“John Molyneux against John Blundell of Crosseby, touching the lands upon marriage.
“John Knody of Cliderow against William de Horneby, parson of the church of Ribchester, touching lands in Cliderowe,
“John Blounte of Hazlewood, Robert Legh, and Thos. Strangeways, came on their recognizance, at the suit of John Radclif,
touching a tenement and lands in Salford. John Blounte answering that the premises were of the manor of Ordesale, and that
Henry, late earl of Lancaster, father of Henry the duke, was seised of the lands, and granted the same by charter to the said John
Blounte, as of the manor of Ordesale.” -
And thus the pleadings are continued throughout the entire roll; and, as evidences of that early period, they are applicable to
the most considerable part of the places and manors in the county palatine of Lancaster, and the early possessors' rights and pre-
mises there.
There is a second roll distinguished A. 1. a, and containing the essoigns taken at Preston before William de Fynche, or
Fyncheden, and his associates, justices of the said duke's bench, in the tenth year of his dukedom (1360-61), and in its nature
similar to the preceding roll. -
ANNo 2 ET 3 DUCATUs [1352-1354].
A. 2. contains pleadings and essoigns, taken at Preston before Hugh de Berewyk and others, in the second year of the said duke, and
of the same nature and effect as those of the preceding rolls, and is very copious, the proceedings in many cases being fully set out.
A. 2. a, contains pleadings and essoigns of the like nature, as taken both at Lancaster and Preston in the fourth year of thesame duke.
A. 2, b, is properly considered as a roll offines, letters close and patent, and as containing charters of the fourth year of Henry, duke
of Lancaster, being the twenty-eighth year of the reign of King Edward III. ; and the following outline comprises the general
matters, or subjects, with several of the names of persons and places applicable thereto —
Nº. Principal Matters. Persons. |Places.
1. Proceedings before the Justices at Preston | Richard Aghton v. Roger Bondesson and John Stelle, | Merton Meer, Le Wyck,
as to right of Fishing. the Defendants justifying in right of William de Northmeles.
Heskayth, Thomas de Litherland, the Prior of
Burscogh, the Abbot of Cockersand, and Richard
de Aghton.
2. Account of Fines paid to the Duke as Lord | John de Haconshou º * te e e - Hamelton.
for Writs of Assize Richard Bradshagh º o e e e - Perbald.
William Jerard and Wife e º o g º º - Asheton in Makerfield.
Peter Jerard and Wife . º e º e & º gº - & e o * | | | Wyndhull Manor.
Raynhull Manor.
(Torbok Manor.
| Walshwittell Manor.
William Careles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Dalton Manor.
Wrightynton.
Cophull.
Thorneton.
Taton Magna.
* - - - Laton Parva.
William Lawrence . g • * - © º º & - e º o w e Ribleton Manor.
Asheton, near Preston
U Manor,
Henry de Ditton º º e -> º º º º º º º º º • Ditton.
William de Excestre, Parson of Crofton º º e g º . º e g o North Meyles.
Church . e w © &
John Culpeper . & © e & o tº tº e - º o o e . | Mamcestre.
3. Grants by -
The Duke to William de Heghfield, in perpetuity, 28 Acres of Land in Salford Waste, at 14s. Rent, } Salford Waste.
and Tenants to do suit at the Lord's Mill.
Several other grants were made to persons specified, but cancelled, as the premises became leased by the duke's charter to John
de Radeclif.
4. A fine of 3s. 4d. to the duke as lord for a Writ of Pone, concerning an agreement—Cecilia Orulshagh and Hugh de Ines.
5. The duke to Richard de Walton, the duke's approver in the parts of Blackburnshire.
“Grant of a messuage and lands in Colne and Merclesden, held by the custom of the manor and castle of Clithero, and other
premises in Trowden, Mithum and Trowden Chace.
Fines to the Lord for Writs.
6. “John de Radeclif, parson of the church of Bury, to the duke—Half-a-mark [6s. 8d.] for lands in Asheton-under-Lime.
“Robert de Legh and Matilda his wife to the Duke—13s. 4d. [a mark] for the moiety of the manor of Flixton.
“Clarissa de Bolton to the Duke—Half-a-mark for tenements in Newton in Makerfield and Walton in the Dale.
“Robert de Legh and Matilda his wife to the Duke—13s. 4d. for the manor of Ordeshale.”
This course is pursued through thirteen other instances of fines of the like nature, paid by various persons in different places in
the county palatine.
DE ANNO 4to DUCATUS (IN DORSO)—[1354-55].
Recognisances of Debts.
Otho de Halsale and John de Radeclif
Richard de Rixton John de Asheton and Ors 100 marks (£66 : 13:4).
John, son of Adam de Claxton Sir Adam de Hoghton, Knt. 17 marks (£1.1 : 6:8).
Otho de Halsale The Duke 100 marks.
Grants, &c. - -
The Duke to Geoffrey de Langholt and Robert de Gikellswyk of Tadecastre, for the Abbot and Convent of Sallay.—License to
Alien in Mortmain Lands in Bradeford in Bouland, held in Socage by fealty and Service, and as by inquisition taken by the
Duke's command.
112 (Iije Đígtorg ºf 3Lancašijire. CHAP. IX.
The Duke to Adam de Hoghton.—Acquittance of serving on juries, &c.
The Duke to John de Haverington of Farleton.—Lease of the Manor of Horneby and its demesnes, the Castle, Deer and Chace of
Rebrundale (Advowsons, &c. excepted).
The Duke to Matthew de Southeworth. –Pardon of a debt owing to the Duke's Father, Henry Earl of Lancaster.
The Duke to John de Dyneley and Heirs. —Grant of Dunham Manor by Homage and Fealty, and £12: 6 : 7 per Ann. with
2s. for the Ward of Lancaster Castle. The above are all tested at Preston.
The Duke to the King–Precept to John Cokayn and others to levy in the Duchy the remainder of Aid, granted by Parliament
to King Edward III., to knight his eldest son, according to the King's Mandate, and also a Mandate of the Sheriff of Lan-
caster to assist therein. As tested at Lancaster.
William de Stoklegh and Avisia de Bretargh.-Inrolment of a deed of the manor of Hyton. Tested at Preston.
Pleadings at Lancaster of a similar nature to A. 2.
Other Grants, from the 4th to the 11th Henry, Duke of Lancaster, comprising 29th Edward III. 1356, and 36th Edward III. 1363.
The Duke to William de Heghfeld and his Heirs.-Grant of 23 [? 28] Acres of Waste in Salford, at a Rent of I1s 6d reserved,
and remainder to Thomas Strangwas. Tested by Henry de Walton, Archdeacon of Richmond, Lieutenant of the Duchy of
Lancaster.
The Duke to Richard de Dynesargh, of Liverpool, and his Heirs.-Grant of a Messuage and Appurtenances in Castle Street,
Liverpool, which formerly belonged to Benedict le Stedeman, late Constable of Liverpool Castle, at 45 Rent p, ann., and by
Services, as the other Tenants of that Town did for their Messuages.
The Duke to Henry le Norreys.-Grant of Free Warren in Speek.
The Duke to John del Monkes.—Grant of the Wardship and Lands of Henry de Croft.
Divers Fines to the Lord for Writs of Assize.—For Lands and Tenements in Hopton, Tildesley, Ditton near Torbok, and in
Chorlegh.
The fºre to John de Perburn–Letters of Protection while abroad with the Duke in the King's Service, and similar Letters of
Protection to various other Persons. -
Among numerous other entries on the Roll are various instruments by license, warrant, writ, grant, or appointment—viz.
For holding pleas and complaints; for keeping the statute of weights and measures; the statutes of servants, artificers, etc., and
the record of various fines for writs of assize, etc., and therein the Writ de Conspiratione. -
A Writ, diem clausit extremum, of the Lands of John de Rigmayden, in the Duchy of Lancaster. -
An Exemplification of the Proceedings between Thomas de Abnay of the High Peake, and Thurstan de Holand of Salfordshire,
returned in the Duke's Chancery, concerning the Manor of Denton under Downeshagh. .
A Mandate to John Haverington and others, to equip the Men-at-Arms in the Duchy, with 300 Archers and others, to be dis-
patched to Newcastle-upon-Tyne, to march with the King against the Scotch.
Another Mandate on behalf of the King, as to the Alienations and Possessions of Lancaster Priory, taken with other Alien
Priories, by reason of the War with France.
Appointments to the Office of Escheator, inquiries of the conduct of Bailiffs of the Wapentakes, appointment of Justices to
hear and determine Trespasses within the Duchy, and Mandates to the Sheriff to assist in all such Premises.
A Lease of the Herbage of Musbury Park.
Grant of the Hospital of St. Leonard's at Lancaster, to be annexed to the Priory of Seton, if the Burgesses of Lancaster consent.
The Appointments of Keeperships of Forests.
Pardon of a Suit by the Duke for an Assault committed.
Grant and Confirmation of the Advowson of Wygan Church, and Letters of Protection to various Persons, while staying with
the Duke in the King's Service in the Parts of Brittany.
ANNo 7° DUCATUs [1357-58].
Divers Fines for Writs of Assize of Lands and Tenements in Longtre, Hepay, and Dokesbury, Great Penhulton, Great Merley,
Bury, Middleton, and Penhulton, in Salfordshire. -
Grant of Land and Turbary in Salford, and divers Fines for Premises in Westlegh, Flixton, Whitton, Weryngton, Sonckey,
Penketh, Burtonwood and Laton, Great Merton, Bispham, Pynington, Bold, Lydiat, Thorneton near Sefton, Culcheth, Tildesley,
Glasebrook, Bedeford, Halsale, Wyndhull, Ines near Crosby, and Ines Blundell, including the Writs Post Dissesin, forma Dona-
tiones, Dedimus Potestatem, and the Writ de Ingressu.
A Mandate by the Duke for the King, to William de Horneby and Richard de Townley, to Collect and levy the tenths and
fifteenths within the Duchy of Lancaster. -
A Pardon by the Duke of the Suit of Peace against Hugh le Machon of Abingham, indicted for Housebreaking at Chorley.
ANNo 8° DUCATUs [1358-59]. -
The Duke's Mandate to Justices assigned to try certain Malefactors, against whom the Parson of the Church of Wygan, and
the Lord of the Town, had complained regarding the hindrance of his Bailiffs in the performance of their Duties, and his Mandate
to the Sheriff of the Duchy to assist therein.
Divers Fines for Writs de Conventione, etc., concerning Lands in Culcheth, Mamcestre Manor, and the Advowsons of the
Churches of Mamcestre and Assheton ; Lands in Chippyn, Eggeworth Manor ; Lands in Liverpool, Penhulton in Salfordshire, Cul-
chith and Hyndelegh Manors, Croxteth Park, Flixton Manor, Kenyan, and the Manor of Huyton.
A Grant of the Herbage of the Foss of Lancaster Castle, and of the place called Bernyard in Lancaster.
An Acquittance of serving the Office of Juror, Escheator, Coroner, or Bailiff.
A Release of Rent for Lands held by John Baret in Derby, Liverpool, Everton, and elsewhere within the Duchy.
A Pardon by the Duke to John de Etheleston, indicted for extorting money and other offences, and a Pardon to William de
Twys, of Transgressions. - -
A Lease of the Fishery in the River Ribble at Penwortham, with the Meadows there. Tested by the Duke at Preston.
ANNo 9° DUCATUs [1359-60].
Appointment of Justices in Eyre for Pleas of the Forests.
Precepts to the Sheriff to make a Proclamation for holding Sessions at Preston, and to summon Persons to attend before the
Justices there. - * ,
Pardons for Trespasses of Wert and Venison in Duchy Forests, and other Trespasses.
Grant of Free Warren in Halsal and Rynecres.
Lease of the Herbage called Veden and Mufden.
Grant of a Yearly Rent of 20° to William de Liverpool, out of the Manor of West Derby.
License to take Gorse from Toxteth Park. -
Pardons for Trespasses in the Duchy Forests, and in Toxteth Park.
CHAP. IX. Oſije #istory of Lancashire, | 13.
Pardon upon Indictment for Offences against the Statutes of Servants and Labourers.
Divers Fines upon Writs for Lands in various places. -
The Duke, in behalf of Roger La Warre.—Commissioners appointed to inquire into the said Roger's Petition, showing that he
held the Town of Mamcestre as a Boro' and Market Town, and enjoyed certain Liberties there, and in the Manor and Hamlets,
and that the Duke's Bailiffs had interfered to levy Amerciaments, etc. t
A Licence to Alien in Mortmain Lands in Lancaster. -
Grant of Lands in Salford to Thomas del Olers, and others. -
Grant of a Messuage in Preston escheated to Henry, earl of Lancaster, by Felony.
A Mandate to the Escheator of the Duchy to interfere no further in a Chapel and Lands in Andreton, which had been seized
into the Duke's hands by the late Escheator, it being found by Inquisition, that the Church of Standish was endowed therewith.
ANNo 10mo Ducatus [1360-61]. -
The Duke to Adam de Skilyngcorn.--Licence to take with him a Body Guard within the Duchy of Lancaster, for the Defence
and Protection of his Person.
Pardon to Agnes del Birches, for producing a forged Charter before the Justices, in an Action as to Tenements in Astelegh.
Grant of Lands in Penhulton.
Mandate to the Escheator of the Duchy for Livery of Seisin of Lands held by an Outlaw for Felony in Chipyn, the Duke having
had his Year, Day, and Waste.
Mandate to Collect and Levy within the Duchy the tenth and fifteenth granted by Parliament, to defray the Expenses of War.
Appointment of Bailiff of the Manor of Derby for Life, at two pence a-day for his Wages.
Appointment of Keeper of Toxteth Park for Life, with the Grant of Skeryorderock within the Sea, to construct a Fishery there.
Fel Mandate to the Duchy Escheator to interfere no further as to Land in Kirden [Cuerden], seized into the Duke's hands upon
elony.
Appointment of Keeper of Quernmore Park.
Mandate to the Duchy Escheator to deliver Lands which had been seized into the Duke's hands upon the Marriage of one of
the Duke's Maidens, a legal Divorce having subsequently taken place.
A Pardon upon Indictment for catching Fish at Heton Norres.
Fines for Lands in Humersfeld and Stalmyn.
Grant of a Messuage and Lands in Salford, which came to the Duke's hands by the death of Richard de Tetlowe, who was a
Bastard, and died without Heir—Remainder to Thomas de Strangwas.
Grant of Lands in Ingoll.
Grant of an Escheat in Salford.
Divers Fines for Writs de Attincta, Writs of Assize, and the Writ de Debito.
Grant of 20 Marks [É13: 6:8] yearly, out of the Manor of West Derby.
Grant of Wardship and Marriage of William de Warton.
Appointment of Justices to try Malefactors for Trespasses in the Chases of Bowland, Penhull, Trowden, Rochdale, Rossendale,
and Romesgrene. - -
Grant of the Wardship and Marriage of Thomas de Haverington.
Grant of Lands and Tenements in GoSenargh escheated by Felony.
Lease for 20 Years of the Foreign Wood of Myerscough.
Mandate to the Duchy Escheator to interfere no further in Premises at Ribblechester, seized into the Duke's Hands on the
Felony of Roger de Allele.
An Indenture of Agreement concerning Tenements in Romesgrene and the towns of Penhulton and Cliderowe, between the
Duke and the Abbot and Convent of Whalley.
Grant of the Bailiwick of Derby Wapentake for Life.
Mandate to the Duchy Escheator not to interfere further as to Messuages and Lands in Asteley and Hyndeley, seized into the
Duke's Hands by reason of the Felony of Richard de Atherton.
On the back and in continuation of this Roll to the following effect.
The Duke to Adam Skillingcorn.—A Lease of a Place called Hoddesdone for 12 Years, at £2 : 6:8 per Ann. Henry Le Norres
of Speek, and others, for the Duke.
Recognisance of Debts and divers other Recognisances of Debts.
A Lease by the Duke to William, son of Adam of Lyverpull, and More de Lyverpull, and others de Lyverpull, of the Town,
with all the Mills of the same Town, together with the Rents and Services, and the Passage of the Water of Merese, with the
Turbary of Toxteth Park and the stallages as therein particularised. . [The Instrument, as enrolled, is very obscure. It is tested,
Henry de Walton, Lieutenant of the Duchy, at Lancaster, 24th March, 11th Year of the said Duke.—1361.]"
Mandate to John Haverington and others, to raise Soldiers, Men-at-Arms, and Archers, in the Wapentakes of Amounderness,
Fourneys, and Lonsdale, within the Duchy, to march against the Scotch. And like Mandates to others for Derbyshire, Salfordshire,
Blakeburnshire, and Leylondshire Wapentakes, with a distinct Mandate to the Sheriff to assist.
Grant of a yearly Rent of £10 to Henry Ditton out of the Lands of Thomas Ditton.
Grant of Wardship and Lands and Marriage of William the son of Robert de Prees.
The Duke's Pardon of Suit for Trespass and Hunting at Blakelegh Park.
Grant of Holtefeld in Salford.
Pardon of Peace to the Vicar of Kirkham Church for mal-administration in his Office of Dean of Amounderness.
Mandates to raise 300 Archers, to accompany the Duke to Brittany, from the various Wapentakes. • 4
Grant of a Paviage for Preston, and for Customs on Merchandise in aid thereof.
Admissions of Attorneys to plead in the Duchy Courts. .
Justices assigned for observing the Statute of Weights and Measures.
Permission to inquire of lands in Hornclyve. *
Grant of the Wardship of Lands of Adam de Mondesley.
Paviage for the Town of Lyverpull for two Years. x
Mandate to the Duchy Escheator for Livery of Seisin of Lands in Radeclif, as forfeited by Felony, the Duke having had year,
day, and waste.
y Confirmation of a Grant of Henry, Earl of Lancaster, to William Norreys, of Lands in Derby.
Writ of the Disseisin of Dokesbury [Duxbury] Manor.
The like of Lands in Chorley.
Mandate to the Escheator for Land in Penwortham, seized for withdrawing of the service of a Boat over the River Ribble.
Writ of the Disseisin for Lands in Ellale. -
1 The Duke died the day before this date.-H.
Q
*
114 Qſìje 3%istory of 3Lancagüire, CHAP. IX.
Grant of the Site of Ulneswalton Manor to Richard de Hibernia, the Duke's Physician, with Liberty to be Toll free and Hopper
free at the Duke's Mills.
Grant of Allowance to the Town of Overton to grind Corn at the Duke's Mill at Lone.
Grant of the Custody of St. Mary's Chapel at Syngleton.
Pardon for Trespasses in the Duchy Forests.
Pardon for Non-Appearance in Court. t
Justices assigned to keep the Waters in which Salmons are caught. 3.
Justices to inquire of Stoppages in the Duchy Rivers, and chiefly the Ribble, to the injury of Penwortham Fishery.
Appointments of Stewardships. - -
Pardon of a Fine pro Licentia Concordandi, as to Tenements in Mamcestre.
Inquisition and Letters Patent touching the Manor of Mamcestre as a Market Town and Boro' with the Hamlets thereto.
The Duke to Thomas de Lathum and Wife.
License to hold Knouselegh Park.
Agreement touching the Wardship of Lands and the Marriage of Richard de Molyneux of Sefton.
Divers Letters of Protection for Persons serving the King abroad. -
Confirmation of a Lease of the Manor of Aldeclif to the Prior of Lancaster.
Warrant to levy 520 Marks (£346 : 13:4) from the Freeholders of Quernmore Forest and the Natives of Lonsdale, as their
portion of £1000 Fine for Trespasses against the Assize of the Forest.
Several Mandates to the Escheators concerning various Lands seized.
T)ivers pardons for Trespasses and Assaults.
Exemplification of Proceedings touching the Intail of the Manor of Bury.
The like as to Lands in Harewode, the Water of Hyndeburne, and Clayton on the Mores.
[The other Records of the Annals of the Duchy are marked A. 4. and A. 5, and are similar in their contents to A. 1. These
Rolls terminate the Records of the first Duke, who died in the year 1361, without male issue.]
So rich an inheritance as the dukedom of Lancaster could not remain long in abeyance. The marriage
of John of Gaunt, the fourth son of the reigning monarch of England, to Lady Blanch, the youngest daughter
of the deceased duke, produced the almost immediate revival of the title; and the subsequent death of lady
Maude, without issue, invested Duke John with the whole of those extensive possessions which the first duke
had left to his children. The confidence reposed by the king in this, his favourite and most highly-gifted
son, conferred upon him everything but sovereign power; and his second marriage with Constance, the
eldest daughter of Peter the Cruel, obtained for him the title of King of Castile and Leon. In this character
he obtained the right to coin money, and several pieces were struck bearing his superscription. The wars
in which he was engaged have already been adverted to, and the history of this munificent duke shortly
portrayed. His claim to the throne of Sicily, founded on no just pretension, produced a strong remonstrance
on the part of his holiness Pope Urban W., who issued on the occasion one of those Bulls at the bare name
of which princes and kings were accustomed to tremble. This Bull is still preserved, though divested of its
seal. The inquiry upon what legitimate ground the duke of Lancaster founded his pretensions to the
kingdom of Sicily, he was not able to answer to the pope's nuncio, and from that time this claim seems to
have been abandoned. -
The continental wars in which the English were engaged did not prevent them from embarking on a
crusade against Ireland, that unfortunate country, which has for so many centuries been the scene of
oppression and misgovernment. In a writ addressed to the sheriff of Lancashire by the king, the Irish
people are characterised as “our enemies, and rebels;” and it is announced to the sheriff that Lionel, duke
of Clarence, the king's son, is on his way to Ireland to coerce the “rebels” into subjection, and the ports of
Liverpool and Chester are required to send ships, properly manned, to support the expedition (1361).”
That the object of this armament was not very speedily accomplished, may be inferred from the fact that,
two years afterwards, a proclamation was issued by the king for seizing eighty ships, of thirty tons burden
and upwards, wherever they could be found, on the western coast between Bristol in Somersetshire, and
Purness in Lancashire, which ships were to be sent to Lyverpole, before the feast of St. Peter ad Vincula
(Aug. 1), to assist Prince Lionel in carrying on the war against Ireland. At that time the exports of Liverpool
were very subject to the restrictions of orders in council; in 1362 the bailiffs of Liverpool, and John,
duke of Lancaster, both received orders from the government to prohibit the exportation of provisions of
various kinds, as well as of dye wares and other commodities, which prohibition extended to cloths called
“worstedes,” and to sea-coal, then recently discovered as an article of fuel ; and similar interdicts, soon after
issued, extended the prohibition to horses, linen, woollen yarns, jewels, and the precious metals. Liverpool
was at that period rising, though slowly, into importance; and an order was issued by the king to the
admiral on the station, as well as to the sheriff of the county, and the mayor and bailiffs of the borough, to
rebuild (de novo construere) a bridge over the Mersey within their lordship. The alarm of invasion was again
spread with great assiduity, and the royal proclamations of the year 1369 diligently propagated these
apprehensions, in order to quicken the transmission of the public supplies. Adam de Hoghton, Roger de
Pilkinton, William de Atherton, Richard de Radclyf, and Matthew de Rixton, commissioners of array for the
county of Lancaster, were appointed, by royal mandate (1369), to press and enrol four hundred archers in
Lancashire, to accompany John, duke of Lancaster, to Aquitaine;” and the archbishops, bishops, abbots,
priors, dukes, marquesses, earls, barons, and castellans, were informed that the king had appointed his son,
1 See chap. iv. * Pat. 35 Edw. III. p. 2. m. 24. Turr. Lond. * Rot. Vascon. 43 Edw. III. m. 5. Turt. Lond.
CHAP. IX. Ǻr £istorm of £amcasijire. 115
the duke of Lancaster, his captain and lieutenant in “Guynes and Caleys.” In the following month the
sheriff of Lancaster was commanded to array, by himself or his deputies, all men in the county capable of
bearing arms between the ages of sixteen and sixty years, and to cause them to be in readiness, and properly
equipped, to resist the French, who threatened to invade England, to obstruct the passage of merchants and
merchandise, and to abolish the English language ' By a subsequent proclamation it was ordained that the
men-at-arms, hobelers, and archers in the county of Lancaster should be in complete readiness by Palm
Sunday (April 7, 1370), and William de Risseby, John Blake, clerk, Matthew de Rixton, and Richard ap
Llewellyn Waughan, had confided to them the power to arrest all ships, from twelve to forty tons burthen, in
the ports of Lyverpull, and all other places from thence to Chester, that port included, and to send them to
the ports of Southampton and Plymouth by Sunday next before the feast of Pentecost (Sunday, May 26),
with a sufficient equipment of sailors for the passage, to embark in the expedition of John, duke of Lancaster,
and others in his company, going to Gascony.” To prosecute all these hostile operations the king, this year,
by the authority of parliament, levied upon the parishes of England a tax of fifty thousand pounds, each
parish being required to pay five pounds fifteen shillings, the greater to help the less. From this return it
appears that there were then eight thousand six hundred and thirty-two parishes in England, and that the
contribution of * -
**
Lancashire, for its 58 parishes, was * e g 4% e p © g tº . 3336 8 0
Westmorland 32 2 3 ë ſe tº g ſº g º * gº § ſº 185 12 0
Cumberland 96 2 3 tº * º g g tº º $ e * 556 16 0
Middlesex, exclusive of London, 63 parishes & . . . o e & * * 365 8 0
London, 110 parishes . tº e tº º t • * * g º tº 638 () ()
Yorkshire 540 , , . e º * & * * * * g * . 3132 () ()
By an indenture, made in the following year, between the king and his son John, duke of Lancaster,
king of Castile and Leon, the duke grants to his father the county, castle, town, and honor of Richmond, in
exchange for the castle, manor, and honor of Tykhill, castle and manor of High Peak, with knights' fees,
together with the advowson of the churches of Steyndrop and Brannspath, the free chapels of Tykhill and
High Peak, the church and free chapel of Marsfeld, the free chapel of Pevenese, the priory of Wylmyngdon,
the priory of Whitiham, and the house of St. Robert of Knaresborough, with the castle, manor, and honor
of Knaresborough, the hundred or wapentake of Stayncliff, in Yorkshire, and the manor of Gryngeley and
Whetebury.” At the same time an order was issued by the king to the freemen, and all other tenants on
the exchanged possessions, ordering them to obey John, duke of Lancaster; and similar orders were given
by the duke “to the venerable fathers, all and singular his archbishops, bishops, and other prelates of
churches, and to his earls, viscounts, barons, and others holding of the castle, honor, and county of Richmond,”
announcing that he had granted to his royal father and lord the county of Richmond, and commanding that
all vassals and feudatories should perform homage, fealty, and all other Services and duties to the king."
The prerogatives of jura regalia conferred upon John of Gaunt in his duchy and county palatine of
Lancaster were greatly enlarged by the royal bounty, by which he was appointed the king's especial
lieutenant and captain-general of “our kingdom of France,” and in Aquitaine and the parts beyond the sea.”
This authority was still further enlarged by the memorable charter granted to the duke in the early part of
the reign of his royal nephew (June 1379), of which charter it may be said in a few words that it gave the
largest powers possible to a subject to John of Gaunt, both upon the sea and in France, Aquitaine, and
“elsewhere in all parts beyond the Sea.”
The persons embarked with the duke in his foreign expeditions were privileged by royal authority, and
letters of protection were granted by the king, directing that all noblemen and others attached to the
expedition should cross the sea without delay, so that none of them should be found in this country after
the approaching feast of St. John the Baptist (June 24, 1379). Amongst others engaged in this expedition,
and to whom letters of protection were addressed, we find the names of Robert, Son of William de Clyfton;
William de Barton of Ridale ; Adam del Darn ; Henry Fitzhenry, Son of Thomas de Alkeryngton ; John de
Ribelton of Preston, in Amondernesse ; Hugh de Tyldesley; John Redeman ; and Adam, son of Adam de
Lancaster.
Ireland was still treated as a conquered country, and each successive lord-lieutenant, instead of sailing
for that island in the character of a messenger of peace, was armed with a strong naval and military force,
as if embarking against a hostile state. Accordingly we find an order from the king to the sheriffs (1373),
announcing that he had appointed Simon Charwelton, clerk, and Walton de Eure, to arrest ships of from
twenty to two hundred tons burthen in Bristol and the other western ports as far as Lyverpole, at which
latter place they were to rendezvous, for the passage of William de Wyndesore, “governor and warden of
the land of Ireland.” 3.
In these early days, amongst all the restrictions on commerce, we find no laws against the importation
1 Rot. Vascon. 43 Edw. III. m. 3. Turr. Tuond. * Ex. origin. in Turr. Lond. -
2 Rot. Franc. 44 Edw. III. m. 25. Turr. Lond. 5 Rot. Franc. 47 Edw. III. m. 19. Turr. Lond.
3 Rot. Pat. 1 Rich. II. p. 1. m. 11 per inspex, Turr. Lond. * Pat. 47 Edw. III. p. 2. m. 24. Turr. Lond.
116 Qſìje #istory of 3Lantagjire. CHAP. IX.
of grain, but there are frequent interdicts against the exportation of that article; and hence we have, in the
year 1375, a precept to the sheriff of the county of Lancaster, directing him not to allow the exportation of
wheat, barley, or other grain, from this county.
The reign of Edward III., though a period of war and military renown, terminated in peace. For the
restoration of this blessing the country was indebted to John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, who, in virtue of
the powers with which he was invested, concluded a treaty of peace with Flanders, and also a truce with
France, which, after having been prorogued from time to time, terminated finally in an adjustment of the
differences between the two nations. In the last year of this king's reign (1377) a grant, as we have already
seen, of chancery in the county palatine of Lancaster was made to the duke of Lancaster;" and the reign
concluded, as it had begun, with favours and privileges to the ducal house, which had long held the first
station amongst the peers of the realm, and was speedily to be advanced to sovereign power.
* See chap. iv.
CHAP, X. Qſìje #istorm ºf £antagjire. 117
CHAPTER X.
Power of John of Gaunt, Duke of Lancaster—The Duke's Expedition to Spain—Larger Measure in Lancashire than any
other part of the Kingdom—Accession of the House of Lancaster to the Throne—Grant of the Isle of Man,
first to Henry, Earl of Northumberland, and afterwards to Sir John Stanley, Knight—Annals of the Duchy
Charters of the Duchy—Will of Henry IV—Henry W. ascends the Throne—Union of the County of Hereford
to the Duchy of Lancaster—Battle of Agincourt—Death of Henry W.-His bequest of the Duchy of Lancaster.—
A.D. 1377 to 1422.
º ºf OHN of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, had now attained his meridian power, and the reign of
• Zºº Richard II. may not inaptly be called the regency and vice-royalty of the duke. Though the
§ king swayed the sceptre, his noble uncle guided the arm that wielded it ; and all the prin-
* cipal measures of his reign were supposed by the people, and not without cause, to emanate
...ſº
§§§.
§ {{
§§ 3
*ś @@º º from the palace of the Savoy, or the castle of Lancaster. No subject of the realm had by
%|
º, any means equal power in this kingdom; and, as the representative of the king in foreign
countries, he exercised prerogatives seldom confided to a subject. The wealth of the duke was immense, but
the splendour and state which he maintained absorbed, and even anticipated, his princely income. The arts
were then slowly emerging from the night of the middle ages; the dogmas of the schools and the supersti-
tion of the monasteries were shaken by the rising spirit of inquiry; poetry, hitherto almost unknown in this
island, except in the effusions of the Welsh bards and of Caedmon, began to be cultivated; and “ time-
honoured Lancaster” was amongst the most munificent patrons of genius in his age and nation.
In the “process and ceremony of the coronation” of Richard II. (1377), who was now but eleven years
of age, we find the names of John duke of Lancaster, Roger le Strange de Knokyn, John la Warre, Henry de
Grey de Wilton, and Archibald de Grelly, all names connected with the county of Lancaster, and attached,
for the purposes of this ceremony at least, to the king's court. This “process” John, king of Castile and
Teon, duke of Lancaster, and high steward of England, delivered with his own hand into the king's court of
chancery." The high reputation of the duke pointed him out as the mediator of differences, whether of a
national or a domestic kind; and after having settled the quarrel with France and with Belgium, we find
him appointed a commissioner to compose the ancient differences between the gallant earls of Northumberland
and Douglas.” In 1378 the prerogatives of jura regalia were renewed in favour of “ King John,” duke of
Lancaster, as he was called, on going abroad, and rendered as extensive as they were in the time of King
Edward III. The privilege of coining money in the city of Bayonne, and other places, was at the same time
renewed.” The following year, plenary power was given to the duke in the marches of Scotland. While
clothed with these powers, the duke concluded a peace with Scotland, which was confirmed by the king, his
nephew, at Northampton, and proclaimed in this county, under the designation of the “Great Truce,” by the
sheriff of Lancaster, at the end of the year 1380. The insurrection of Wat Tyler and his confederates, in
which the house of the duke of Lancaster, situated in the Savoy in London, was destroyed, interrupted the
proceedings of the court of justice at Westminster; on which occasion a proclamation was issued by the king
to the duke of Lancaster, ordaining, that on account of the unheard-of and horrible commotions and insurrec-
tions of the people in the kingdom of England, and for averting the dangers arising from the incursions of
foreign enemies, as well as for other reasons, all the pleadings in the court of king's bench stood adjourned ;
and all writs and mandates delivered to the duke, to his chancellors, justiciaries, sheriffs, or other ministers,
within the county of Lancaster, should be returned on the octaves of St. Michael (Oct. 7, 1380), instead of at
the usual period.” The seditions which originated in the neighbourhood of London spread into the provinces;
and rumours were very extensively circulated, that these disturbances were fomented by the duke of Lancaster
and other peers, in order to procure the deposition of the king, that they might usurp the royal authority.
To these rumours it was judged proper to give the most positive and solemn contradiction; in consequence
of which, a proclamation was issued by the king to all archbishops, prelates, and others, wherein it was
announced, that a hateful rumour, which wounded and grieved the royal heart beyond measure, had been
diffused throughout divers parts of the kingdom, representing that the detestable disturbance in certain
1 I Richard II. claus. 1. m. 44. of Savoy and Richmond, on whose death it escheated to the crown;
2 Scot. 1 Richard II. m. 7. and Henry III. conferred it on his son, Edmund Crouchback, through
3 2 Richard II., Vasc. 3. R. whom it became a possession of the earls of Lancaster.
4 See chap. iv. p. 40. The Savoy palace was built by Peter, earl * Claus. 4 Richard II. m. 1.



118 Çür #istorm of £ancashire. char. K.
counties of England, against their allegiance to the king, and the public peace, had been instigated by John,
duke of Lancaster, and certain others, prelates and faithful subjects; which rumours the proclamation
denounced as wicked inventions, and declared, that the duke had always been faithful and zealous for the
honour and safety of the country (1381)." These sinister rumours, notwithstanding, at length became so
prevalent as to endanger the personal safety of the duke; and a proclamation was in consequence issued to
Henry de Percy, earl of Northumberland, and to John, lord de Nevyll, appointing them to raise a body-
guard for the duke, with all possible despatch, both men-at-arms and archers, to protect him against the
violence of his enemies. The duke was at the same time appointed the king's justiciary, to inquire, on oath,
within the counties in his duchy, and the county palatine of Lancaster, into depredations, robberies, homicides,
burnings, and rapes, with power to punish the offenders. That these crimes had attained to a frightful
magnitude in Lancashire, may be inferred from a species of royal proclamation issued by the “king and
duke” (king of Castile and duke of Lancaster) to the sheriff of the county of Lancaster, preserved in the
archives of the duchy, in which, after ordaining that the “holy Anglican Mother Church” shall have all its
liberties whole and unimpaired, and fully enjoy and use the same, and that the great charter and forest
charter shall, according to the statute 6 Rich. II. cap. 6 (1382), be firmly observed, proceeds to say that so
licentious had become the public manners, that the female character was treated with the greatest disrespect,
and “ladies and other noble maids and women,” were frequently violated by force, and that the resentment
of the persons subject to these outrages was so slight, that numbers of them married their ravishers; for
remedy of which it was ordained, that if after such outrage the parties contracted marriage, they should both
of them be disabled, ipso facto, from maintaining any inheritance, dowry, or conjoint feoffment, or from receiving
any bequest from their ancestors, and that the inheritance should descend to the next in blood.”
For the purpose of interposing a barrier against the progress of the Scots in their future attempts to
invade the northern counties of England, a treaty was entered into and ratified between John of Gaunt, duke
of Lancaster, and Henry de Percy, earl of Northumberland (1383), in which it was stipulated that the freemen
of the counties of Lancaster and Durham should be charged by the lord to assemble, and come with all their
power, whenever proclamation was made by the earl of Northumberland that the Scots had laid siege to any
castle in the allegiance of the king.” The stipulations of this treaty were soon brought into active operation.
The Scots, aided by a body of French cavalry, renewed their incursions into Cumberland, Westmorland, and
Lancashire, where they committed the most extensive outrages; on which the king of England, having
assembled an army of 60,000 men, issued an order to the duke of Lancaster to meet him with horse and
arms at Newcastle, on the 14th of July (1384). With this army the young king penetrated into Scotland,
and, after having burnt the capital and laid waste all the towns and villages through which he had to pass,
advanced as 'far as Dundee. This signal act of retributive justice put an end to the invasions of the Scots,
and restored peace to the two countries.
A charge of high treason, in compassing the death of the king, and usurping his throne, was this year
made, as we have already seen, by John Latimer, B.D., an Irish friar of the Franciscan order, against the
duke of Lancaster, which charge the duke positively denied, and required to be confronted with his accuser;
but on the eve of the trial, according to Kennett,” “Lord John Holland and Sir Henry Green, two of the
duke's friends, entered the friar's lodgings, and cruelly put him to death with their own hands, by hanging
him up by the neck and privy members, and laying a great stone upon his breast, which broke his neck; and,
as if they had perpetrated this enormity by public authority, they drew his dead body through the streets the
next day, as being deservedly punished as a traitor. This cruel action brought upon the duke much dishonour,
and, though it ridded him of a false accuser, as was thought till the friar was so illegally put to death, yet it
rendered his innocence more suspicious than before ; and many believed him really guilty who before thought
him falsely accused.” This, to be sure, was a monstrous infraction of law and justice, and might well subject
the duke to suspicion, if the fact could have been established that he was a party to the murder, in which
light the punishment of the friar must be viewed; but we do not find in the records of the day any evidence
of this fact.
The war with Scotland being ended, and the duke of Lancaster feeling that his possessions in the duchy
and county palatine were secure, he prepared to enforce his claim, in right of his wife, to his inheritance in
Spain," leaving his son Henry, earl of Derby, as his locum tenens in his absence. In this expedition, the most
splendid of the age, he was accompanied by his chancellor, William de Ashton, Esq., Thomas de Ashton, Esq.,
John de Eccleston of Lyverpole, Esq., and Thomas Holcroft, Esq., all of the county of Lancaster, to whom
letters of protection were given by the king. Previous to his departure, the duke entered into an engagement
with the king his nephew, that he would not make any treaty with the crown of Spain, unless upon the
condition that the king of Spain should pay to the king of England 20,000 gold doubloons; and the duke
further engaged that he would repay to the king 20,000 marks (£13,333 : 6:8), which he had borrowed to
defray the expenses incident to the fitting out of this expedition. Of this mission the following account is
* Pat. 5 Richard II. p. 1. m. 32. 3 Scot. 7. Richard II. m. 1. 5 Vol. i. p. 252.
* Roll A 6, m. 16. * Claus. 8. Richard II. m. 3. d. * See chap. iv.
CHAP. X. - Çür #istory of 3Lancagüirº. - 119
given in an ancient manuscript chronicle in the Harleian collection, in the British Museum. [We have
modernised the spelling.]
“And in the eleventh year of the reign of King Richard II. (1387), Sir John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, went over the sea
into Spain to challenge his right that he hath by his wife's title to the crown of Spain, with a great host of people, of lords, and
knights, and squires, men-of-arms and archers; and had the duchess his wife and his three daughters over the sea with him in
Spain. And there they were a great while, till at last the king of Spain began [to] treat with the duke of Lancaster; and as they
were accorded together, through their sooth counsels, that the king of Spain should wed the duke's daughter of Lancaster that was
heir to Spain, and the king of Spain gave to the duke of Lancaster of gold and silver that were cast into great ingots, as much as
eight chariots might carry, and many other rich jewels and gifts; and every year after, during the life of the duke of Lancaster and
of the duchess his wife, 10,000 marks of gold,” and that by her [their] own adventure, costs and charges, they of Spain should bring
these 10,000 marks every year, yearly, into Bayonne, to the duke's assigns, by Surety made. And the duke of Lancaster wedded
another daughter of his unto the king of Portingale, well and worthily, and left there his two daughters with their lords their
husbands, and came him home again into England with the good lady his wife, duchess of Lancaster.”
During the duke's absence in Spain, “a submission of award” was entered into between the honourable
“Prince, King, and Duke,” as he is designated in this document, on the one part, and William Pargrave and
Igden Slingsby, Esq., on the other part, relating to the manors of Scotton, Breareton, and Thonge, in the county
of York, to determine how far the latter parties, in right of their wives, the daughters of William de Westfield,
were entitled to certain privileges in these manors; the award to be made by twenty knights and esquires, the
most sufficient that could be found near to the manors in litigation.
In the year 1388, the alarm of Scotch invasion was again very prevalent in this country, on which the
Ring issued a proclamation to the duke of Lancaster, or his chancellor, announcing that the Scots and their
adherents had assembled a great army, and had hastily invaded the kingdom of England, burning, destroying,
and horribly slaying men, women, and children, and had almost advanced to the gates of York. To repel
this cruel invasion, the duke was required to make proclamation in all cities, boroughs, and market-towns,
and other places in the county and duchy of Lancaster, that all lords, knights, esquires, and others competent
to bear arms should repair with all speed to join the king's army." Before the return of the duke from Spain,
in 1389, the Scots were driven into their own country, but the public mind still continued agitated in the
extreme by the intrigues of the duke of Gloucester and his adherents, who sought to usurp the royal preroga-
tives, and to use them for their own aggrandisement. The presence of the duke of Lancaster served to check
the turbulent and ambitious spirit of his brother of Gloucester, and to restore tranquillity to the state.
Although by Magna Charta it was declared that uniform weights and measures should be used throughout
the whole kingdom, to guard against those impositions to which the people were exposed from the arts of
fraudulent dealers, the provisions of the charter had hitherto not been enforced; it was now ordained by
the authority of the king, on petition of the commons, that a standard measure and weight should be
established for the whole kingdom ; and that any person convicted of using any other should not only make
satisfaction to the aggrieved parties, but should also be imprisoned for six months without bail. The county
of Lancaster was, however, exempt from this enactment, “ because,” as the king says in his answer to the
commons, “there has always been a larger measure used in Lancashire than in any other part of the
kingdom.”
The earliest enactments in the statutes of the realm for regulating the salmon-fisheries of this kingdom
are those of the statute of Westminster 2, of which the confirmations relate to the Lancashire rivers of the
Lume, the Wyre, the Mersey, and the Ribble: and by a statute, 13 Richard II. c. 19 (1389–90), it is enacted,
“That no young salmon be taken or destroyed by nets, at mill-dams or other places, from the middle of April
till the Nativity of St. John Baptist;” and “it is ordained and assented, that the waters of Lon, Wyre,
Mersee, Ribbyl, and all other waters in the county of Lancaster, be put in defence, as to the taking of Salmons,
from Michaelmas Day to the Purification of our Lady (Feb. 2), and in no other time of the year, because that
salmons be not seasonable in the said waters in the time aforesaid ; and in the parts where such rivers be, there
shall be assigned and sworn good and sufficient conservators of this statute.” This act was amended by the
17 Richard II. c. 9 (1393-4), which enacts, “that the justices of the peace shall be conservators of the recited
statute, with under-conservators appointed by them, and that the said justices shall inquire into the due
execution of the law at their sessions;” and further amended by I Eliz. c. 17 (1559), which, amongst other
things, provides that the meshes of the nets used in taking salmon shall be two inches and a half broad, and
that the fish shall not be taken by any other means."
“In 1393, John, duke of Lancaster, son of the king of England, duke of Guienne, earl of Derby, Lincoln, and Leicester, and
steward of England,” as he is styled in the parliamentary records, and Thomas, duke of Gloucester, constable of England, “complained
to the king that sir Thomas Talbot, knight, with others his adherents, conspired the deaths of the said dukes in divers parts of Cheshire,
1 Harl. MSS. Cod. 266 fo. 98 b. 3 Harl. MSS. Cod. 266, fo. 50. * Claus. 12 Rich. II. m. 42.
* 10,000 marks, in the ordinary money of account, equals 5 - - -
#6666 : 13:4. But the “mark of gold” (the expression used in Rot. Parl. vol. iii. p. 270. & e
the MS.) was equal to 20 marks of silver ; so that if the term be ° The subsequent statutes for the regulation of these fisheries are
taken literally, that sum must be increased twenty-fold. It is more 4 and 5 of Anne, c. 21 (1706); 1 George I. stat. ii. c. 18 (1714);
probable that it means 10,000 ordinary marks, paid in gold,—H. 28 George II. c. 26 (1749-50); 48 George III. c. 61 (18028).
| 20 (The #istory of 3Lancašijire. CHAP. X.
as the same was confessed and well known ; and the dukes prayed that parliament might judge of the fault. Whereupon the king
and the lords in parliament adjudged the said Thomas Talbot guilty of high treason, and awarded two writs, the one to the sheriffs of
York, and the other to the sheriffs of Derby, to take the body of the said Sir Thomas, returnable in the King's Bench, in the month
of Easter then ensuing ; and open proclamation was made in Westminster Hall, that upon the sheriffs' return at the next coming in
of the said sir Thomas, he should be convicted of treason, and incur the loss and penalty of the same.” +
Notwithstanding all these court intrigues, the honours and privileges of the duke of Lancaster continued
to accumulate ; and by an act of royal favour he was allowed to hold Aquitaine in liege homage of the king;
and all prelates, earls, viscounts, and others were commanded to pay homage to the duke. The viceroyalty
of Picardy was soon after conferred upon him, at which time the privilege was conceded to him of importing
sixty casks of wine, duty-free, for the use of his household.”
The scandal raised at court by the marriage of John of Gaunt, the king's uncle, to his mistress Catherine
Swinford,” was somewhat abated by the king's patent, which legitimised her four children by the duke. These
children were surnamed Beauford, from the place of their birth; the patent of legitimation bearing date on
the 10th of February 1397."
In the following year (1398), the quarrel between Henry of Bolingbroke, duke of Hereford, and Thomas
Mowbray, first duke of Norfolk, which terminated in the banishment of both these knights, took place.”
The death of the illustrious and venerable duke of Lancaster was precipitated by this event;" and the deposi-
tion of Richard II., “unking'd by Bolingbroke,” speedily followed' On the death of his father, the duke of
Hereford returned to England, Ostensibly to claim his paternal inheritance of the duchy of Lancaster, but
really, through the public power, and his own daring, to assume the still higher possession of the throne.
Amongst the most powerful of the adherents of the duke of Lancaster were Henry de Percy, earl of Northum-
berland, and his son Henry Hotspur, to whose services he was essentially indebted for his elevation; and
one of the first acts of the new king's reign was to present the Earl with a grant of the Isle of Man,
to be held by the feudal service of bearing the curtana, called the “LANCASTER SWORD,” on the day of the
coronation,” at the left shoulder of the king and his heirs, which sword had been borne by John of Gaunt at
the coronation of Richard II. This grant is represented, in the document by which it is made, as the
inadequate reward of the earl's magnificent and faithful services to the state. The island, castle, peel, and
lordship of Man, the possession of William le Scroop, earl of Wiltshire, had been seized by the king, on the
execution of the earl for misgoverning the kingdom in the time of Richard II. ; and the whole of these
possessions, together with the regalia, royal jurisdictions, franchises, liberties, and the patronage of the
bishoprick, as well as the goods and chattels of the unfortunate earl, were conferred upon the earl of
Northumberland in perpetuity. The restless spirit of Northumberland, who thought himself inadequately
rewarded by the Isle of Man, while he had secured for his sovereign the kingdom of England, urged him on
to acts of rebellion against King Henry, as he had before rebelled against his predecessor. Less fortunate in
his second than in his first revolt, the reward of his perfidy to Richard overtook him, and he lost, in the
sequel, his son young Hotspur, his possessions, and his life. By the attainder of the earl of Northumberland,
the Isle of Man, after six years, again fell into the possession of the crown, and was seized for the king's use
by Sir William and Sir John Stanley;” on which the king, by letters-patent (dated 4th Oct. 1405), of his
especial grace and favour, granted to Sir John Stanley the island, castle, peel, and lordship of the Isle of
Man, and all the islands and lordships thereto belonging, together with regalia, regalities, franchises, and
liberties, and all other profits and commodities annexed thereto, to have and to hold for the term of his life."
- On the 6th of April 1406, the king so far extended his bounty as to grant the Isle of Man to Sir John
Stanley in perpetuity, in as full and ample a manner as it had been held by any former lord of the crown of
England, per homagium legium, but altering the tenure, which was now, instead of bearing the Lancaster
Sword at the coronation, to pay to the king a cast of falcons at the coronation, after homage made in lieu of
all demands and customs.
The annals of the duchy, during the whole period of the life of John of Gaunt, will at all times rank
amongst the most interesting records in the early history of the county palatine of Lancaster; but though
they are all before us, they are much too voluminous to be inserted in detail, and can only be given in
summary, with such references as may enable those who wish to consult particular documents to find them
with facility. These annals being resumed from the period of the death of the first duke of Lancaster, and
brought down to the demise of the last subject duke, comprehend the whole period of the history of the
duchy, from its creation to the time when it merged in the crown, not indeed by absolute union, for the
duchy of Lancaster has always been considered a separate inheritance, but by actual possession—the kings of
England and the dukes of Lancaster having been the same persons ever since the time when Henry of
Bolingbroke ascended the throne, to the present day.
1 See chap v. - * See chap. v. p. 43.
* The duty on wine at this time was 3s. per cask, with an ad 6 P. 43. 7 P. 44.
valorem duty of 5 per cent upon its introduction into the port of 8 Pat. 1 Hen. IV. p. 5 m. 35. -
London. : 9 Writs dated Pountfreyt Castle, 3d July, 6 Hen. IV.
8 See chap. iv. p. 41. * Rot. Parl, vol. iii. p. 343. 10 Claus, 7 Henry IV. m. 42.
*
|§
CEIAP. X.
The pistory Of lantasite.
12]
EXTRACT FROM CLOSE ROLL, A. 6.
JoHN DUKE OF LANCASTER—viz. 1377 (51 Edw. III.) to 1389 (12 Rich. II.)
(From the Duchy Records in the Office of the Duchy of Lancaster.)
PERSONS.
&m-m-º-º-º-º-º-
MATTERS.
The two introductory instruments are as follow :—
51 Edw. III.
John the Duke to Thomas de Thelwall.
Also, the Duke to the Sheriff of the County
. John Hodelleston and Wife to the Duke .
Nicholas de Syngleton to the Duke g g e
The King and Duke for Robert, son of Sir John de
Harryngton, knt.
. The King and Duke for Henry de Ferrarijs
. The King and Duke for Walter Pedwardyne and others .
. The King and Duke for William de Brottrieux, Ellalle,
Scotforde, Assheton, and others
. The King and Duke for the Duke : Adam de Hoghton,
Keeper of Quernemore Forest
. The King and Duke for the Duke
. Various Fines paid for Writs.
. The King and Duke for the Duke
10. The King and Duke for John Boteler and Nicholas de
Haveryngton .
11. The King and Duke for King Richard
;
12. The King and Duke for the Prior and Convent of St. Mary's,
Leicester
*Appointment of Chancellor of the Duchy and County Palatine,
and delivery of the Great Seal of the Royalty.
Proclamation of Pleadings of Assize, etc.
Fine for Writ of Assize de Nov. Dis. 20s, paid to the Hanaper.
Fine of 10s. for a Writ de Conventione.
Mandate to Roger de Brokholes, the Duke's Escheator, for
delivery of Lands formerly held in Capite.
Mandate to the Escheator to deliver Lands formerly held in
Capite.
Like Mandate for Advowsons of Churches, etc. Conyngshead
Priory and Wharton Church.
The like for delivery of a Moiety of Knight's Fee and Appurten-
ances in Right of Thomas de Thweng. e
Warrant to cut Timber for Repairs of Lancaster Castle.
Precept to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Lancaster and other Persons,
to proclaim prohibition against Persons congregating with an
armed power to impede the Sessions at Lancaster.
Writ to the Escheator to seize the Lands of Nicholas de Prest-
wyche.
Precept to the Sheriff for paying them £26 : 8s. as Knights elect
for the Commonalty of the Duchy, for Expenses in coming to
the King's Parliament.
Precept for Proclamation that all Foreign Mendicant Friars
within the Duchy quit the Realm, according to the King's
Mandate.
Precept to the Escheator not to interfere in the Manors and
Possessions of the Abbey of St. Mary de Pratis, during the
avoidance of the Abbot's death.
Here ends the first Year of the Royalty (1377), on the first side of the Roll.”
13. John, King of Castile, etc. for the Abbot of Furnes
Precept to the Sheriff, commanding the Executors of John Raton
to pay £55 to the Abbot.
14. Fines paid to the Duke for various Writs, and attested by the Custos Regalitatis, William Wetherley, Vicar of Blakeburn Church.
15. The King and Duke for the Abbot of Evesham
16. The same for the King and Duke
17. The same for the Duke and other Magnates of his Retinue
going abroad in the King's service.
18. The same for the Duke
19. The same for Richard de Townelay, Sheriff
20. The same for John Boteler and Ralph de Ypre
Mandate to the Barons of the Exchequer concerning the Fishery
of Hoghwyk in the River Ribble, claimed by the Abbot, and
Seized by the Deputy-Steward of the Manor of Penwortham.
Mandate to the Sheriff to Levy Aid, according to the Statute,
to make his eldest Son a Knight.
Letters to the Abbots of Furneys, Whalley, Cockersand, and
other Abbots, Priors, Archdeacons, and Proctors, to offer
prayers and sacrifices to God for the success of the Expedition.
Mandate to the Duke's Escheator to seize the Lands, etc., of
Otho de Halsale. :
Mandate to the Barons of the Exchequer to pay his Account
of Charges for Parchment, etc.
Precept to the Sheriff to pay the Knights elected for the Com-
monalty of the Duchy £16 for their Expenses in coming to
Parliament at Gloucester.
This ends the second Year of the Royalty (1378).
21. 2 Rich. II. (1378-9).
The King and Duke for Alan Wilkeson and Wife
22. Various Fines paid to the Duke for Writs.
Mandate to the Barons of the Exchequer to inquire of a Messuage
and Lands seized into the Duke's Hands, for the Felony of
John de Leyland at Kirkeby, in Derbyshire.
1 This appointment is dated at Westminster, 17th April 51 Edw.
III. (1377), and states that John, king of Castile and Leon and duke
of Lancaster, in the presence of Robert de Wylington and Thomas
de Hungerford, knights, and others of the king's household, in the
chapel within the palace, appointed Thomas de Thelwall, clerk, his
chancellor within the duchy and county of Lancaster, who took his
oath to the same king, and his great seal for the administration of
the regalities of the county palatine of the same, with his own hand
to the said Thomas delivered, etc. Afterwards, the chancellor having
received the seal, the said king, on the 20th April in the first year of .
his regality (1377), by writ directed to the Sheriff of Lancashire,
assigned William de Skipwyth, Roger de Fulthorp, and William de
Nessefeld to be his judges for all pleas, etc., in the county, ordered
that the said justices should hold their sessions at Lancaster on the
Monday after Ascension day, and that due proclamation should be
made in full court and in various market-places of the suits or pleas
to be prosecuted before the same justices, taking then and there
twenty-four of the discreet, lawworthy, and honest men, from every
wapentake or hundred in the said county, for the further fulfilling
of the mandale. The sheriff to return the names of the twenty-
four men and this writ.
* The first year of the royalty or regality of John of Gaunt was
the 17th year of his dukedom.—H.
122 QThe #istory of £ancashire. CHAP, X.
PERSONS. MATTERS.
23.
24.
25.
29.
30.
31.
32.
33.
34.
35.
36.
37.
38.
39.
40.
41.
42.
43.
44.
45.
46.
47.
48.
49.
50.
The King and Duke for the Duke e * e Mandate to the Justices to adjourn Sessions.
The same for the Abbot of Whalley e tº g Mandate to the Barons to inquire of Tithes seized by the
Escheator, as belonging to William Talbot, an Outlaw, touch-
ing the Tithes of the Church of All Saints of Whalley, at
Alvetham.
The same for the King . º ſº g º Precept to the Sheriff to proclaim within the Duchy the Ordinance
made as to the Goldsmith's mark.
. The same for Nicholas de Haryngton and Robert de Wiswyk Precept to the Sheriff to pay the Knights of the Commonalty
27.
28.
their Expenses to Parliament at Westminster.
The same for the Duke . º g g § Precept to the Sheriff to elect a Coroner in the room of Thomas
de Fasakereley.
The same for the Duke . & * * & Precept to elect Werderors for Derbyshire, Amounderness, and
Lonsdale.
The King and Duke for John de Eccleston e g Precept to the Sheriff to give Seisin of a Messuage and Lands
taken by the Duke for the Felony of Robert de Raynhull.
The same for the Abbot of Evesham Monastery . e Mandate to the Escheator to deliver Temporalities to Roger de
- Yatton, Abbot-elect.
The same, for the same . * * † ſº Mandate to the Barons of the Exchequer to surcease demands
upon the Abbot, and to answer for the Issues according to the
Award of the Great Council.
The same for the Duke . tº * g * Mandate to the Escheator to seize the Lands, etc., of Sir Thomas
Bannastre, Knt.
The end of the 3d Year of the Royalty (1379).
3 Rich. II. (1379-80). The King and Duke for the Duke Precept to the Sheriff for election of a Coroner.
The same, for John de Boteler and Thomas de Southworth Precept to the Sheriff to pay them as knights for the Common-
alty, £24, for Expenses in coming to Parliament at West-
minster.
Anno Quarto Regalitatis John Duke of Lancaster (1380).
3 Ric. II. (1379-80).
Fines paid to the Lord for Writs. -
The King and Duke for John de Haydock t * Precept to the Escheator to give seisin of the Lands of Willm.
Botiller in Laton Magna, Laton Parva, Bispham, Warthebrek,
and Great Merton ; and Rents in Atherton, Westlegh,
Pymyngton, Bolde, Lydegate, Thornton, Culcheth, Egergarth,
Tildeslegh, Glassebroke, Bedford, Halsall, Ives, and Wynd-
- hull; Great Sonkey Manor and Werington Manor.
The same for John Botiller tº g fe tº Precept to give seisin of Lands and Mill in Burtonwood, and the
Manor of Weryngton, with Advowson of the Church.
The same for the Duke . ſº g g i. Precept to seize the Lands of William Botiller.
The like of John Byron.
The like of Richard Radclif.
The same for Gilbert de Gorfordsyche . & g Writ of Re-disseisin as to the Turbary in Scaresbrek.
The like for the Tenants of Worston Township . e Mandate to the Barons of the Exchequer, relating to the Tenants
of Worston, and Pasturage of Common and the Inclosure by
- - William Nowel.
The same for John Botiller and Thomas de Southworth . Precept to the Sheriffs to pay Knights for the Commonalty of
the Duchy, £19:12s., their Expenses in coming to Parliamt.
at Northampton.
The King and Duke for the Duke tº g g Mandate to the Escheator to seize the Lands and Tenements of
Peter Gerard.
The like of Ellen de Birewayth.
The like of Wm. de Bradshagh of Hagh. . "
The like of Richd. de Caterall.
The like of Gilbert de Kyghley.
The like of Isabella de Eton.
The same, for John Radecliffe . ſº * e Mandate to give Seisin of the Manor of Urdesale [Ordsall], 3 parts
of Moiety of the Town of Flixton, Tenements in Le Hope,
Shoresworth, Le Holynhed, in Tokholes, Salford, the Bailiwick
of Rochdale, and # of moiety of the Town of Flixton.
The same, for Isabella Bradeshagh e & e Mandate to assign Dower of Lands seized into the Duke's Hands
by reason of the minority of Thomas Bradeshagh.
Writs of Diem Clausit Extremum.
The King and Duke for the Duke * . º e Mandate to the Escheator to take the Lands of John de Skerton.
g * * * * And the like Mandate for several others upon deaths.
The same, for Sir Roger Pilkington, Knt. * & Writ of Post Disseisin to the Sheriff for a Tenement in Rediche.
The King and Duke for the Abbot of Cokersand . e Mandate to the Barons of the Exchequer to enquire of Rent of
Fº in Mellyng, held by Henry Chaderton, as seized for
ebt. .
Fines paid for various Writs to the Duke, as acknowledged by William Horneby, Clerk of the Hanaper.
The King and Duke for the King * ga g Precept to the Sheriff to take William Grenhil, an Outlaw in the
King's Court within the Duchy, according to the King's
Mandate therein recited.
The same for same * ſº * * g Precept to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Liverpool to proclaim the
King's Mandate prohibiting Exportation of Corn.
CHAP. X. Ǻr £istory of £antagüirº. |23
PERSONS. MATTERS.
Anno Seacto Regalitatis (1382).
51. The King and Duke for John de Warren Mandate to the Escheator to give Seisin of Wood Plumpton
* as in Fee, by Sir John Davenport, Knt. to Robert de
ton.
52. The same for William de Atherton and Robert de Urcewyk Precept to the Sheriff to pay the Knights of the Commonalty of
the Duchy for their expenses to Parliament at Westminster.
53. The King and Duke for the King Precept to the Mayor and Bailiffs of Liverpool to proclaim the
King's Mandate touching the Exportation of Corn.
54. The King and Duke for the King of Scotland Precept to the Sheriff to distrain Persons in Liverpool possessing
several Casks of Wine taken in the Port of Inchgalle by some
Persons in the County of Chester, contrary to the Truce with
Scotland, and to pay 10 Marks (£6 : 13:4) for each Cask.
55. The same for the King of England Precept to the Sheriff to publish the King's Proclamation within
the Duchy relative to Charters of Pardon by the King's Sub-
jects (except certain Persons named, and the Men of the City
of Canterbury, of the Towns of Cambridge, Bridgwater, St.
Edmund's, Beverley, and Scarboro').
56. The same for Sir Roger de Pilkington, Knt., and Robert de Precept to pay the Knights elected for the Duchy Commonalty
Clifton £10 for their Expenses to Parliament at Westminster.
57. Fines to the King and Duke for Writs.
.58. The King and Duke for the King of England Precept to Liverpool as to Exportation of Corn.
Writs of Diem Clausit Extremum.
59. The King and Duke for the Duke Mandate to the Escheator to take the Lands of Edward Lawrence
and the Land of Thomas Lathum.
60. The King and Duke for the King of England Precept to Liverpool as before.
61. The same, for the Poor Fishermen in the Duchy . Precept to the Sheriff to publish the King's Prohibition against
preventing the Fishermen from setting their Nets in the Sea,
and catching Fish for their Livelihood.
62. The same, for Matilda Waryng Wii,of Re-disseisin to the Sheriff of a Messuage and Lands in
ppyT1.
63. The same, for Thomas de Knoll Mandate to the Barons of the Exchequer to inquire of Lands in
Chippendale, seized into the Duke's hands on the Felony of
John de Knoll, as purchased after the King's Charter of
Pardon.
64. The King of England for the King Writ addressed to the King of Castile and Duke of Lancaster,
to cause to be elected and to come to Parliament 2 Knights
for the Commonalty of the Duchy, and of every City 2 Citizens,
and of every Boro' two Burgesses.
Witness the King at Westminster, 7th January, 6 Ric. II.
(1383). -
65. The King and Duke for the King Precept to the Sheriff to make Proclamation of the Statutes and
Ordinances made in the Parliamt of the 6th Year of King
Richard (1383), as recited in the King's Mandate addressed to
the Duke of Lancaster, or his Lieutenant.
Witness the King at Lancaster, 8th Febry. (1383.)
66. The King and Duke for Margery Bannastre Wºº Post Disseisin as to Dower of Lands in Walton in le
Dale.
67. The same for the Owners of the Ship called Carrak, wrecked Precept to the Sheriff to make Proclamation that all the Duke's
on the Duchy coast Officers, Ministers, and Tenants of the Duchy, abstain from
taking the Goods of the said Ship, the Crew having escaped
alive.
Anno Septimo Regalitatis (1383).
68. The King and Duke for the Duke Writ of Diem Clausit Extremum upon the death of John de
Rirkby, Chivaler.
69. The same for same The like, upon death of David de Irland.
70. The same for same Precept to the Sheriff to elect a Werderor for Amounderness,
instead of Adam Bradkirk.
71. The like The like for Derbyshire, vice Richard de Aynscough.
72. The like . & * - Do. to elect a Coroner for the County, vice Adam de Skylicorne.
73. The same for the Abbot of Cockersand Do. to give Seisin of Lands in Billynge, seized by King Edward
for the Felony of William de Falyngge.
74. Fines to the King and Duke for Writs. e - - e
75. The King and Duke for Richard de Bareweford and Agnes, Writ of Re-disseisin concerning Lands at Chorlegh.
|his Wife
76. Fines to the King and Duke for Writs. e e
77. The King and Duke for the Duke Writ of Diem Clausit, etc., directed to Robert de Ursewyk on
the death of Hugh de Bradshagh.
78. The King and Duke for John Pilkington and Wife wº #: *: * directed to the Escheator, for Margaret
€ 1.5 ſa,CIS118,9. Iſle
79. The same for same Writ of †. Clausit Extremum upon the death of Hugh de'
Dacre. Do. On the death of Thomas de Rigmayden. D0 of
Thomas de Lathum. Do. of Richard de Balderston.
80. Fines paid to the Duke for Writs. -
124 Qſìje 39tgtorg ºf £antaghirt. CHAP. X.
IPERSONS. MATTERS.
Anno Octavo Regalitatis (1384).
81. The King and Duke, for the Duke Precept to the Sheriff for Proclamation, that all the Men of the
82.
83.
84.
85.
86.
87.
88.
89.
90.
91.
92.
93.
94.
95.
96.
97.
98.
99.
100.
101.
102.
103.
104.
105.
106.
107.
108.
The same for Adam de Prestall of Salfordshire
The same, for Johanna Rigmayden
The King and Duke for the Duke
Fines paid to the King and Duke for Writs.
The King and Duke for the Duke
The same for John Daunport
Fines paid to the King and Duke for Writs.
The King and Duke for the King of England
The same for the Abbot of Cockersand
The King and Duke for Isabella Lathum
Fines paid to the King and Duke for Writs.
The King and Duke for Roger de Fazackrelegh and Wife
The same for Johanna Kekewyk
The same for the Duke g
Duke's retinue meet him at Newcastle upon Tyne, to march
into Scotland.
Precept to the Sheriff not to put the said Adam on Juries, &c.,
he being deaf.
Writ de Dote Assignanda, addressed to the Escheator.
Writ of Diem Clausit Extremum, on the death of Matthew de
Twisilton.
— of John Kekwyk, of Derby.
— of William Barton.
Mandamus to the Escheator, upon the death of Thomas de
Rigmayden.
— of Thomas Banaster.
– of Edward Banastre.
Mandate to William de Horneby, Receiver of the County of
Lancaster, to pay the secondary Justice in the Duchy 20
Marks, for his Fee of 20s, for his Clerk for two last Sessions.
Precept to the Sheriff to get ready the Men at Arms and Bowmen
within the Duchy, to march agst the Scotch, according to the
Ring's Mandate.
Precept to give Seisin of Lands in Billynge, as seized into King
Edward's Hands for the Felony of William de Falyng.
Writ de Dote Assignanda, out of Lathum Manor.
Writ de Procedendo in an Assize of Novel Disseisin before the
Justices, as to Tenements in Knowslegh, Childwall, Roby, and
Anlasargh.
Writ de Dote Assignanda.
Mandamus to the Escheator, upon the death of Thomas de
Lathum.
Hic incipit Annus Nonus Regalitatis (1385).
The King and Duke for the King and Duke
The same for the Duke
Fines paid to the Lord for Writs §
The King and Duke, for John de Pilkyngton, Parson of
the Church of Bury
The King and Duke for the King
The same for the Duke . *
Fines paid to the Lord for Writs.
The King and Duke, for Isabella Lathum
Fines paid to the Lord for Writs.
John de Radclif to the Duke .
The King and Duke, for Margaret de Ines
The same, for Jas. Botiller, Earl of Ormond
The same, for Roger Fazackerlegh
Writ of Diem Clausit, &c. on the death of Henry de Dyneley.
— Geoffrey Workesley.
Adam de Hoghton.
Precept to elect a Coroner for the County of Lancaster, vice
John Skilicorn, deceased.
Writ of Re-Disseisin as to the Manors of Le Lee, Grymsargh,
Hoghton, Quylton, Ravenemeles, and Whytyngham, and
Messuages and Lands in Lee, GOOSnargh, Assheton, Gryme-
Sargh, Quytyngham, Frekilton, Caterall, Hoghton, Quilton,
Withenhall, Hephay, Lynesey, Plesyngton, Wrightyngton,
Ravenmeles, Goldburn, Preston, Sourby, Whittill in the
Wodes, Walshwhittill, Eccleston, Chernock Richard, and
Ribchester; and Moieties of Chernok Richard Manor and
Whittill in the Wodes; two parts of Asheton and Gosemargh
Manors, and the 4th part of Caterall and Wrightynton Manors.
Mandate to the Justices to adjourn Sessions.
Mandate to the Escheator to seize into the Hands of the King
and Duke the Lands of Thomas Banastre in Ethelswyk,
Freculton, Claughton in Amounds. Billesburgh, Halghton,
Syngleton Parvā, Thornton le Holmes, Sowerby, Hamylton,
Stalmyn, Crofton, Farryngton, Thorpe, and Brethirton.
Like Mandate for the Lands of Edmond Banastre in Dilworth,
Broghton, Preston in Amounderness, Wodeplumpton, with
the More Hall and Gosemargh.
Precept to the Sheriff to give Seisin of Tenements in Lathum
Manor, vizt. Horskarre, Demedowe near Rughford, Robynfeld
de Horskarre, Calverhay, Watton, Ryding, and 8 Marks
(£5:6:8) Rent of Freeholds in Newburgh.
Recognisance for Rent of Lands in Oldham, Chatherton, and
Wytton, near Plesyngton.
Writ of Assignment of Dower to Margaret Bradeshagh, of a Water
Millin Westlegh, in the Duke's Hands by Minority of the Heir.
Precept to the Escheator for Seisin of Rent of the Manor of
Wetherton, notwithstanding no Process as to proof of Age,
nor his being called on the Inquisition taken.
Mandate to the Justices of the Bench, to proceed on Novel
Disseisin as to Tenements of Sir Thomas Lathum, Knt. in
Rinowslegh, Childwall, Roby, and Anhlesargh, and on no
Accot to give Judgmt withot the Duke's advice.
CHAP. X. (Liſt #istorg ºf £ancashire. 125
PERSONS. MATTERS.
109.
110.
111.
112.
113.
114.
115.
116.
117.
118.
119.
I20.
121.
122.
123.
124.
125.
126.
127.
128.
Anno Decimo Regalitatis (1386).
Fines paid to the King and Duke.
The King and Duke for Margaret de Radclif . g Precept to the Receiver of the Duchy to pay a yearly Rent for
Lands in Oldom, Chatherton, and Witton, near Plesington.
The same for Robert de Barton . e jº & Writ of Re-disseisin for Messuages and Lands in Lathum.
Fines paid to the King and Duke. -
The King and Duke for the Duke ſº tº * Precept to the Sheriff to Levy £20 of the Lands of John de
Radclif in Oldom, Chatherton, and Wytton, for Arrears.
Witnessed by Henry, Earl of Derby, Custos of the Duchy.
Anno Undecimo Regalitatis (1387).
Fines paid to the King and Duke for Writs. -
The King and Duke for William Ward . * te Writ to Walter de Urswyk, Keeper of Lancaster Forest, to
accept Bail for the said William, detained in Lancaster Castle,
for a Trespass on the Forest.
The King and Duke for the Duke g e g Writ of Diem Clausit Extremum upon the deaths of Jno. de
Wareyn, Thomas Strangways, Thomas Sotheworth, Richard
Torbock, Thomas Holand, William Tunstall, Petronilla
Banastre, Thomas Molyneux, and William Aghton.
The same for same . tº & e e * Precept to the Sheriff to elect a Coroner, vice Edward Frere.
Do, vice Hugh de Ines, they being both incompetent to their
g Offices.
The same for same . p © & g º Precept to the Sheriff to elect a Verduror for Quernmore and
Wyresdale, vice John Croft, made Steward of Lonsdale.
The like, vice Robt. Cauncefeld, he being in Spain with the
Duke.
Fines paid to the King and Duke for Writs.
Ralph de Radclif, Sheriff of Lancaster, for the King and Recognisance of Debt for the Sheriff to pay £80 for his office for
Duke one Year.
The same for same. fº º & * * Like Recognisance for a faithful. Account of his profits. .
The King and Duke, for John de Ines . & p Precept to the Escheator to supersede the demand of £34:14:4
of Lands, &c., in Wythyngton and Harewode, and other
Moneys, till the next Sessions.
Anno Duodecimo Regalitatis (1388).
Fines paid to the King and Duke for Writs.
The King and Duke for the Duke Mandate to the Justices to adjourn Sessions.
The same for same ſº t * g g Writs of Diem Clausit Extremum upon the deaths of Jno. de
Haydok, of Alice de Legh, and John de Nevill.
The same, for Milicent de Aghton * º e Writ to the Escheator for Assignment of Dower.
Fines paid to the King and Duke for Writs
The King and Duke for Ralph de Nevill . e g Precept to the Escheator for Livery of seisin of the Advowson
of Prescote Church, and for Payment of Relief and for Respite
of Homage, till the Duke's return to England.
DUCHY OF TANCASTER, }
CONTINUATION OF ABSTRACT OF THE CLOSE ROLL A. 6, 1st TO 12th YEAR OF THE ROYALTY
OF JOHN OF GAUNT, DUKE OF LANCASTER.
(The Interior Part of the Roll having been already Abstracted, the following are from the same Roll in Tergo.)
First Year (1377).
Grantors and others. Grantees and others. Matters and Premises.
No. 2.
dors.
. 1. | Edmund, son of Alan de | Edmund Lorence, son of John Law- | Enrolment of the Deed of Release and Quit
OTS,
Folifayt. rence, of Asshdon. Claim of all Right to the Manor of Folifayt,
near Tadcaster, 50 Ed. III. (1376).
The like of Lands which Elizabeth Folifayt,
widow, held in dower, 51 Ed. III. (1377).
Other Deeds relative to the Manor.
{j ohn de Assheton-under-Lime. John de Kirkeby * * * . . Recognisance of the Receipt of £40 in part
payment of a Debt of 140 Marks (£93 : 6:8),
1 Ric. II. (1377-8). Other Deeds relating
... " thereto.
*::: ! Thomas Lathum . gº . Robert de Breton, Vicar of the Church Enrolment of Deed by Release and Quit Claim
& of Huyton, and Thomas de Ryding, at Crossehalle, in Lathum, and all other
Chaplain. Lands granted in Lancashire, 49 Ed. III.
(1375).
126 (ſhe #istory of £ancashire. CHAP. X.
Grantors and others. Grantees and others. Matters and Premises.
Annus Secundus (1378), In, Tergo.
No. 4.) Robert de Washington and For William de Horneby, Parson of | Recognisance of Debt of £8, .
dors. others. the Church of St. Michael-upon- A9:200 Regalitatis.
- Wyre.
No. 5. Thomas de Lamplogh and For Edmund Lorence Recognisance of Debt, £40.
dors. others.
.. | Adam of Lancaster For Thomas Mirreson of Lancaster Recognisance of Debt, É10.
No. 7. William de Heton Ralph de Ipre and Peter de Bolrun Enrolment of Grant of Lands in Heton,
dors. Broune, Molebek, Urwike, and Lancaster.
51 Edw. III. (1377).
No. 8. | Richard de Massy, Knt. . For John de la Pole, Justice of Chester. Recognisance of Debt of £5.—Witness, Henry,
dors. - Earl of Derby, Custos of the Royalty.
And various other Recognizances of Debts.
Annus Tertius (1379). In Tergo.
No. 9. | John de Pleyngton Hugh de Dacre, Knt. Lord of Gilles- Enrolment of Grant of the Manors of Halton
dors. land. in Lonesdale, and Eccleston in Leylandshire,
- in Coñ Lanc. with all their Members and
Appurtenances. 2 Rich. II. (1378-9.)
Release and Quit Claim by Feoffees.
Annus Quartus (1380). In Tergo.
Nº. | Various Recognisances of Debt
Annus Quintus (1381). In Tergo.
Nº. }J ohn Botiller, Knt. Henry de Bispham and Richard de Enrolment of the Grant of the Manors of Great
No. 12. Henry de Bispham and Rich-
dors, ſº ard de Carleton.
Annus Sextus (1382).
No. 13.
dors,
No. 14.
dors.
| Recognisances of Debts.
| Robert de Wasshyngton.
No. 15. | Roger de Fasacreley
Carleton, Chaplains.
John Botiller, Knt. and Alice his wife.
In Tergo.
For William de Hornby, Parson of St.
Michael-upon-Wyre, and William le
Ducton.
Edward de Lathum, Henry de Scares-
dors. breck, and others.
No. 16. Adam de Hoghton, Chivr, For the King and Duke
dors. , Nicholas de Haryngton,
Chivº,
And Richard, son of Adam de
Houghton.
Annus Octavus (1384). In Tergo.
*: 17. | Richard de Hoghton For William de Horneby, Parson of St.
OTS. Michael-upon-Wire.
Nº. The King and Duke For John Nowell
Tº ! The King and Duke William de Rigmayden
Nº. 19. | The King and Duke For Hugh, son of John de Partyngton,
OTS.
of Irwelham.
No. 20 ! The ki d Duk Nº.
dors. | e KIng and Duke For Adam de Hoghton and others
Nº. | The King and Duke For Thomas Smith, Nayler, of Cholle
Laton, Little Laton, Bispham, and Warde-
brek, Lands in Great Merton, and the whole
Lordship of Merton Town.
4 Rich. II. (1381).
Enrolment of Grant of the above Manors,
Lands, and Lordship, in Fee Tail special.
4 Ric. II. (1880-1).
Enrolment of Grant of Lands, &c. in Carleton
in Amounderness, for a Rose Rent per Ann.
8 Years, and increased Rent £20 per Ann.
5 Ric. II. (1881-2)
Memorandum of Agreement as to Dower of
Tenements in Wrightinton.
Recognisance of Debt of 200 Marks, upon a
seizure into the Duke's hands, on the death
of James Botiller, Earl of Ormond.
Enrolment of Grant of the Wardship of Lands
of Henry de Kighley, Knt. in Lancashire
and Yorkshire, and the Marriage of his Son.
7 Rich. II. (1383-4).
Precept to the Sheriff to supersede taking the
Body of John Nowell, to answer before the
Justices of the Duchy for the death of John
de Holden, upon Appeal of Murder.
Precept to the Sheriff to supersede the Out-
lawry for Trespasses in the Duchy Chases.
Precept to the Sheriff to supersede an Out-
tº: King Richard II. having granted him
pardon.
Similar Writs for William Crist and John de
Leylond, Souter, of Wigan.
Precept to the Escheator to supersede Levy of
Rent of 100 Marks (£66 : 13:4) out of
WethetOn Manor.
Precept to the Sheriff to supersede Outlawry,
Defendant having found Bail to appear at
Sessions.
CHAP. X.
127
whe #istorg of antasite.
Grantors and others.
Grantees and others.
Matters and Premises.
No. 22.
dors.
Annus Nonus (1385). In Tergo.
Various Recognisances of Debts and Writs de Supersedendo, addressed to the Sheriff.
John de Walton .
Annus Decimus (1386). In Tergo.
Recognisances of Debts, &c.
Robert de Saureby and John de Birke-
heved, Chaplains.
Enrolment of Grant of Lands, &c. in Lancas-
ter, Bare, and Kertmell.
9 Ric. II. (1385-6.)
No. 23. Robert de Saureby and John J ohn de Walton and Rosa his Wife Grant of the above Lands, &c. in Fee Tail,
dors. de Birkeheved, Chaplains. special.
No. 24. Agnes Banastre For William de Horneby, Parson of the Recognisance of Debt of 500 Marks (£333. 6s.
dors. 8 - Church of St. Michael-upon-Wyre. 8d.) for Infeoffment of Lands, seized into the
Duke's hands by the minority of Constance
Banastre.
Annus Undecimus (1387). In Tergo.
Recognisances of Debts and writs de Supersedendo as to Debts.
Nº. | William de Dutton For William Molen, Robert Dyryng, Enrolment of Grant of Lands, &c., of William
& - John De Cornay, and others, Chap- de Dutton in Ribchester, Bispham, Northe-
lains. 'brok, and all his Burgages and Lands and
Tenements in Preston, in Amounderness.
11 Rich. II. (1387-8).
Annus Duodecimus (1388). In Tergo.
No. 26. Gilbert de Halsall and For the King and Duke Recognisance of Debt of £700 for payment to
dors, others. William de Hornby, Receiver, of £237. 14s,
0}d. for his Account of the Time he was
Sheriff. Witness, Henry, Earl of Derby,
Custos of the Duchy. 12 Rich. II. (1388-9).
No. 27. Robert de Standyssh and For the King and Duke Recognisance of Debt of £200 for the said
dors. others. Robert, to render Account of his Office of
Sheriff.
“From the 7th year of King Richard II. (1383-4) there are no Books nor Rolls extant to the 1st of Henry IV. (1399).”—E
Libro Great Ayloffe, 1692; page 159, in John of Gaunt's Chancery of the Duchy.
In the “Originalia Memoranda,” on the Lord Treasurer's side of the Exchequer, we find the following
Records relating to the county and duchy of Lancaster, from the period when the ducal house first rose into
distinction, to the time when the third duke of Lancaster ascended the throne, with the letters-patent of
Henry IV. and Henry V.
LANCASTER.—The duke of Lancaster's charter, enrolled in Memoranda 9 Edw. I. (1281); and Records of St. Hilary, 19
Edw. II. (1325-6).
Chart. of * E. of Lanc., enrolled, Recds. St. Hil. 6 Edw. III. (1327)—Roll.
D. of Lanc.’s liberty of replevying to the Morrow of Easter Term, in Co. York. Recs. St. Mich, 26 Edw. III. (1352)—Roll.
Unjust claim of Henry, late E. of Lanc., duke of Lanc., in Co. Derby. Recs. St. Hil. 26 Edw. III. (1352)—Roll.
Charter of Duke of Lanc. respecting divers liberties granted to him in the city of London. Recs. Hil. 27 Edw. III. (1353)—Roll.
Charter of the D. of Lanc. for receiving £40 under the Honor of the Earl of Derby and Lincoln, in equal parts, in Co. Leicester.
Mich. Records 23 Edw. III. (1354)—Roll.
Duke of Lancaster's claim in Co. Leicester. Easter Recs. 28 Edw. III. (1354)—Roll 1.
Charter of D. of Lanc. in Co. Leicester, enrolled Mich. Recs. 29 Edw. III. (1355)—Roll.
Cognisance of Rich. Michel, sheriff of Not, and Derby, for the D. of Lanc. in Co. Derby. Hil. Recs. 32 Edw. III. (1358)—Roll.
D. of Lanc.'s claim in Co. Linc. for working fines. Mich. Recs. 33 Edw. III. (1359)—Roll.
Charter of John, D. of Lanc. Mich. Recs. 38 Edw. III. (1364)—Roll 24.
Charter of John, Duke of Lancaster. Mich. Recs. 38 Edw. III. (1364), 21.
Record sent to the King's chancellor in the county of Lancaster. Mich. Recs. 38 Edw. III. (1364)—Roll.
Charter of J., D. of L. for liberties granted to him. Hil. Recs. 39 Edw. III. (1365)—Roll 16.
D. of Lanc.’s claim of divers sums. Mich. Recs. 42 Edw. III. (1368)—Roll 20.
D. of Lanc's Charter, 47 Edw. III. (1373)—Roll. -
Charters of John, Kg of Cast. and Leon, D. of Lanc., enrolled Mich. Recs. 1 Ric. II. (1377-8)—Roll 2.
Charter of John, D. of Aquitaine and Lanc. of liberties granted to him by the king. Mich. Recs. 21 Ric. II. (1397-8)—Roll 13.
The Duke of Lancaster's claim of divers sums charged upon the sheriffs of the Counties of Somerset, Dorset, Lincoln, and York.
Mich. Recs. 21 Ric. II. (1397-8)—Roll 20.
John, Duke of Lancaster's claim of divers sums charged upon the sheriff of the County of Linc. Mich. Recs. 22 Ric. II.
1398-9)—Roll 34.
( i. claim of John, D. of L. for divers sums. Mich. Recs. 21 Ric. II. (1397-8)—Roll 21.
The claim of John, D. of Lanc. for divers sums upon the sheriff of Lincoln's accountant. Mich. 23 Rich II. (1399)—Roll 34.
The King's Letters Patent touching the Duchy of Lane. enrolled Mich. Recs. 1 Hen. IV. (1899-1400)—Roll 14.
Two Letters Patent made to John Leventhorp, under the Seal of the Duchy of Lancaster, enrolled Mich. Recs, 1 Henry IV.
(1399-1400)—Roll 15.
Divers sums claimed by our Lord the King's Attorney-Gen. of his Duchy of Lanc., to be placed to the same King as for his
Duchy of Lanc. in Co. Derby and elsewhere. Trinity Records, 5 Henry IV. (1403-4)—Roll 16.
* * +&
*
The King's Letters under his privy seal of the Duchy of Lanc. enrolled Mich. Recs, 6 Hen. W. (1418-19)—Roll 19,
128 QThe #istory of £antagjire. CHAP, X.
Of the illustrious John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, it has been observed that he was the son of a king,
the father of a king, and the uncle of a king, and could have said as much as Charles of Valois had he been
the brother of a king. His children were as follows:–
|By BLANCH, HIS FIRST WIFE—
HENRY of Lancaster, surnamed Bolingbroke, afterwards Henry IV. of England. The first king of the
Lancasterian line. --- - -
PHILIPPA of Lancaster, queen of Portugal.
ELIZABETH of Lancaster, duchess of Exeter.
BY CONSTANCE, HIS SECOND WIFE—
RATHERINE of Lancaster, queen of Castile and Teon.
By CATHARINE SWINFORD, AFTERWARDS THIRD WIFE—
JOHN BEAUFORT, earl of Somerset.
HENRY BEAUFORT, cardinal of St. Eusebius, and bishop of Winchester.
THOMAS BEAUFORT, duke of Exeter and earl of Dorset.
JOAN BEAUFORT, countess of Westmorland.
The reign of Henry IV. son of John of Gaunt, was short and agitated. The insurrection of the earls of
Rutland, Kent, and Huntingdon, was followed by an insurrection in Wales; and a royal proclamation,
addressed to the “Chancellor of the King's County Palatine of Lancaster,” announced that Owyn Glendourdy,
and other rebels, had lately risen against the king in great numbers, to resist whom, the chancellor was
required to proclaim within his jurisdiction that all knights and esquires able to bear arms in person, and
archers who received annual fees from the king, should repair to Worcester by the 1st of October, to join the
other levies raised to put down this insurrection (1400-1401)." A long and sanguinary civil war ensued, in
which Henry had by turns to fight against his English subjects, under the earl of Northumberland, who, from
being his friend, had become his deadly enemy; the Welsh under their native princes, and the Scotch under
Robert III. of that kingdom ; but by his courage, skill, and prudence, he overcame his enemies, and
established that throne by the power of the sword, which appeared at first to have been erected upon the
affections of his people. The writ to raise troops in the county of Lancaster was followed by another addressed
to the chancellor of the duchy, commanding him to proclaim that William Adherton and Edmund de Dacre
were appointed to collect the reasonable aid of twenty shillings for the marriage-portion of Blanche of
Lancaster, the king's eldest daughter, to the duke of Bavaria (1402)”.
The wounds inflicted upon the pride of France by the conquests made in that country by the Black
Prince, and the earl of Derby, son of Henry earl of Lancaster, formed a never-ending source of hostility
between the French and English nations; and the duke of Orleans did not fail to avail himself of the diffi-
culties by which Henry IV. was surrounded. His attacks were directed against the English castles and
fortresses, both in the South and north of France, at Bordeaux and at Calais. To prevent these possessions
from falling into the hands of the French, the king issued a proclamation to the chancellor of the duchy, and
of the county palatine of Lancaster, as well as to the sheriffs of other counties, commanding him to proclaim
in all proper places within his jurisdiction, that all knights, esquires, valets, and other persons competent for
defence, having any fees or annuities, lands, tenements, gifts or grants, or other donations, held by gift of the
king or his progenitors, should personally appear in the king's presence at London, within fifteen days from
the date of the proclamation (1407).” These demonstrations were of themselves sufficient to preserve the
English possessions without striking a blow ; and the contest between the duke of Burgundy and the duke
of Orleans, in which the king of England, in a proclamation to the chancellor of the county palatine of Lan-
caster, inhibited the people of England from taking any part, so much engaged the French armies, that they
would not prosecute their hostility against the English cities of France."
That the commerce of this county, in its infant state, was at this period greatly injured and impeded by
the depredations of the hostile powers by which England was assailed, may be inferred from a petition to the
commons house of parliament, from the inhabitants of Lancashire, Cheshire, and Cumberland, in which they
allege, that several robberies and depredations have been committed on their coast by their enemies of France
and Scotland, and by the rebels of Wales, who have seized and taken their vessels, owing, as they allege, to
no admiral or keeper of the seas being upon this station, to the great destruction, ruin, and oppression, of the
said counties; for remedy whereof, they pray that protection may be afforded to them. To which petition
the king replied, that an admiral should be appointed for the safeguard of the seas of the north-western
coast (1410)."
The contest for the papacy, which at this time agitated all Christendom, was felt so strongly in
1 Claus. 2 Henry IV. p. 2, m. 1. d. 2 Fin, 3 Henry IV. m. 16. * Claus, 8 Henry IV. m. 17, d.
* Claus. 13 Henry IV. m. 22, d. 5 Rot. Parl. 11 Henry IV. item, 52, vol. iii. p. 639.
CHAP. X. The history of Lancashire. I 29
England, that a proclamation was issued by the king to the sheriff of the county of Lancaster, and to other
counties, wherein it was announced, that Peter de Luna, alias Benedict XIII., and Angelo Corario, alias
Gregory XII., were rashly contending for the papal chair, and both of them being pronounced and declared
notorious heretics and schismatics by the definitive sentence of the holy and universal synod canonically
congregated at Pisa, the most reverend father in Christ, the lord Petro de Candias, on account of his merits,
was elected by the same authority to the pontificate, by the title of Alexander W., and the sheriff was com-
manded to make proclamation in all places within his jurisdiction that the said Alexander W. was the true
Roman pontifex (1410)."
The life of King Henry IV., though only in the meridian of his years, was now drawing fast to a termi-
nation. The scenes through which he had passed in his way to the throne, and the disquietude with which
he was assailed from so many quarters, while in the possession of that giddy eminence, preyed upon his
constitution and shortened his days. Had it been his fate to remain in the sufficiently elevated, but more
humble station of duke of Lancaster, it is highly probable that his life would have been more happy and his
death less early. By his will (dated Jan. 21, 1408), which breathes a spirit of remorse characteristic of the
state of the royal mind, he bequeathed the duchy of Lancaster as an endowment to his consort the queen,
in these words:–“I will that the Queen be endowed of the duchy of Lancaster.”
The reign of Henry W. the second British king of the Lancastrian line, presents one of the most splendid
periods in the military annals of England. During this short but eventful reign, France was once more laid
prostrate at the feet of her ancient rival; and the capital of that kingdom, as well as the power of its govern-
ment, was held by the British monarch with a tenacity which was not relaxed even in the hour of death.
At home all was tranquillity; the cabals of the court, which had embittered the last days of Henry IV., were
hushed by the frank and fascinating character of his once profligate son, and the scenes of domestic discon-
tent were confined altogether to the contests between the early reformers and the church of Rome. -
The first English martyr in the cause of the Lollards was William Sautré, rector of Osythes, in London,
who was consigned to the flames in 1401, at the instance of the church, in virtue of a writ issued by Henry
IV., whose father, John of Gaunt, had been the early patron and firm friend of John Wickliffe, the founder
of the obnoxious sect in England, Henry V., more influenced probably by a wish to preserve the peace and
harmony of his kingdom, than by any strong predilections, espoused the cause of the church of Rome; and
it would appear from a royal proclamation, issued in the first year of his reign to the sheriff of the county
palatine of Lancaster, that the new Schismatics had spread into this county. In this proclamation the king
announced that certain preachers, not privileged by law, or licensed by the diocesan of the place, or permitted
by the church, of the new sect of Lollards, preach in public places, contrary to the ordinances of the church,
and, under colour of preaching the word of God, forment and disseminate discord among the people, and the
pestiferous seed of evil doctrine. For remedy of which, and to protect the catholic faith, the sheriff is
commanded to make proclamation that no chaplain shall hold, dogmatise, preach, or defend this heresy and
error, under pain of imprisonment and forfeiture of goods; and if any persons shall be found publicly or
privately infringing these Orders, by holding conventicles, or congregations, or receiving the preachers of the
obnoxious doctrines, or shall be really and vehemently suspected of so doing, they shall be committed to
prison without delay, to remain there until they shall obey the mandates of the diocesan in whose diocese
they have preached, to be certified by the diocesan himself (1413).” The demand for reformation in the
doctrine and the discipline of the church was far too loud and too widely extended to be silenced by pro-
clamations; and hence we find from another royal mandate addressed to the chancellor of the county palatine
of Lancaster in the following year (1414), that divers of the liege subjects of the king, on the incitement and
instigation “ of a most cunning and subtle enemy,” Sir John Oldcastle (Lord Cobham), holding and teaching
various opinions manifestly contrary and obnoxious to the catholic faith, and to sound doctrine, stood charged
with wickedly imagining and conspiring the king's death, because he and his counsellors would not assent to
these doctrines. The accused parties, too conscientious to plead not guilty of an offence which they had
actually committed, or under some other influence which it is now difficult to discover, confessed their guilt ;
and the king of his special grace pardoned all the offenders, except Lord Cobham, Sir Thomas Talbot, knight,
and ten other persons of inferior station. This pardon the chancellor was required to proclaim through the
whole of his jurisdiction; and the reformers, with the above exceptions, some of whom had tâken refuge in
the places of sanctuary–Manchester and Lancaster being of that number—were allowed to plead the royal
pardon before the feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist (June 24) next ensuing.” A number of the
Lollards forfeited their lives to the dictates of their consciences; for it is impossible to impute to the great
mass of them any sinister motive ; and Lord Cobham, the most zealous and distinguished of their number,
was hung up by the middle upon a gallows erected in St. George's Fields, where he was consumed alive in
the fire, praising God with his last breath. These terrible examples checked for a time the spread of
Lollardism; but the fires only Smouldered ; and, in the reign of Henry VIII., under sanction of the king,
1 Claus. 11 Henry IV. m. 31. dors. * Claus. 1 Hen. V. 3 Claus. 2 Henry V. m. 24.
S
130 ſhe jºigturn of 3Lantaghire. CHAP. X.
they burst forth with a force so irresistible, as to destroy the whole power of the “holy Anglican mother
church.” -
At this period a large accession of wealth and power was made to the duchy of Lancaster, by the union
of the rights and possessions of the county of Hereford to the duchy, under the sanction of the following
royal ordinance (2 Hen. W. 1414):— *
“The king, by the assent of parliament, declares, grants, and Ordains, that all the honors, castles, hundreds, manors, lands,
tenements, reversions, rents, services, fees, advowsons, possessions, and lordships, as well within the kingdom of England as in
parts of Wales and other places, within the king's lordships, which have descended, or shall descend inheritably to the king, after
the death of lame Maria, one of the daughters and heirs of Humphrey de Bohun, formerly Earl of Hereford, Essex, and Northamp-
ton, and Constable of England, as to the son and heir of that Dame Mary; also, that all the rights, liberties, franchises, and frank
customs, to the same inheritance appertaining or regarding, be severed from the crown of England, and adjoined, annexed, united,
and incorporated, to and with the said king's duchy of Lancaster, perpetually to remain to the same king, as being so adjoined,
united, annexed, and incorporated; and further, that all the honors, Castles, hundreds, wapentakes, manors, lands, tenements, and
reversions aforesaid, and all other things to the said inheritance regarding, and the vassals and tenants to it appertaining, be also
entirely enfranchised, and by the officers treated, guarded, and governed, in all respects, as possessions to the said duchy appertain-
ing, and the vassals and tenants to the same duchy regarding, are enfranchised, treated, guarded, and governed, for ever ; and this,
according to the form, force, and effect of the words contained in a schedule passed in this parliament ; and by the king, with the
assent of the Lords aforesaid, and the authority aforesaid, fully affirmed. [Then follows an enumeration of the possessions at
great length."]
Scarcely had the chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster proclaimed, by royal command, the truce between
England and Castile and Leon, when the king of England embarked for France with an army of six thousand
cavalry, and twenty-four thousand foot, principally archers. After carrying the garrison of Harfleur, and
leaving a number of his troops to defend that fortress, Henry, at the head of his troops, marched for Calais,
but on his way he was interrupted by a hostile army of fourteen thousand cavalry and forty thousand
infantry, under the command of the constable of France, and obliged to come to battle on the plains of
Agincourt. Here the glories of Cressy and Poictiers were renewed, and the cry of “A Derby’’ or “An
Edward,” was not more piercing in the ears of the discomfited French army on those fields of English glory,
than was the cry of “A Henry” on the field of Agincourt. The loss of the English in this memorable battle
(fought Oct. 25, 1415), which destroyed the military power of France, was incredibly small; some of the
contemporary authorities say not exceeding forty men, amongst whom were Edward duke of York and the
earl of Suffolk. That this number is much underrated cannot be doubted, and if the nature of the engage-
ment did not establish that fact, it might be inferred from the proclamation to the chancellor of the duchy of
Lancaster, issued by the king soon afterwards, for the purpose of recruiting his army, by which all knights,
esquires, and valets, holding fees or annuities of the king for term of years, or for life, were required, under
forfeiture of the same, to appear in their own persons at Southampton, to cross the seas to France arrayed
and furnished with supplies for three months (1416).”
Before the departure of the king for France, he instituted commissions of array in this and the other
counties of England, to take a review of all the freemen able to bear arms, and to divide them into companies,
that they might be kept in readiness to resist an enemy. “This,” says Mr. Hume, “was the first commission
of array which we meet with in English history.” How a writer of so much research should have fallen into
the error of supposing that there had existed in England no commission of array till the time of Henry V, it
is not easy to imagine : commissions of this nature had been instituted two centuries before, and the number
of them in operation in the reigns of the Edwards, in the county of Lancaster alone, it is difficult to estimate.
The necessities of the state had plunged the king into great pecuniary difficulties; and although the
county of Hereford, with its land revenues, had recently been added to his hereditary possessions, he was
obliged, before he could embark his troops for France, to raise supplies by pledging the crown jewels. The
loans obtained in this way had been contracted for with so much precipitation, and the regalia had been so
widely dispersed, that a proclamation was issued by the king to the chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster,
wherein it was announced that certain royal jewels, of no little value, had been committed and pledged, for
the greater expedition of the king's voyage lately made to France, to certain of his liege subjects retained in
the expedition, for the payment of their wages, which jewels it was now proper should be restored; the chan-
cellor was therefore commanded to proclaim, that all persons within his jurisdiction, who had received such
pledged jewels, should present them in person at the public treasury, in order that they might be redeemed ;
in default whereof, the offending parties were rendered liable to forfeit all their goods (1416).”
The career of King Henry W. was as short as it was brilliant ; a mortal malady seized him at the age of
thirty-four years, and consigned the conqueror of France to the tomb in August 1422. His principal care in
his last illness was to provide for the secure possession of his French conquest to his infant son Henry VI,
* Rot. Parl. vol. iv. p. 46. While speaking of this act, Sir ratified, and continued by authority of parliament, necessary to be
Edward Coke says—“For the great roialties, liberties, privileges, known by such as have any of these possessions.”—Fourth Insti-
immunities, quitances, and freedoms, which the duke of Lancaster tute, p. 210.
had for him and his men and tenants, see Rot. Parl. die Lunae post * Claus. 4 Henry V. m. 21. d.
octav. Sancti Martini an. 2 Henry V., all which are established, * Claus. 4 Henry V. m. 11. dors.
CHAP, X. (The #istory ºf £antagbirt. 13|
then but nine months old,—little suspecting that this unfortunate child would not, in his mature years, be
able to maintain even his English possessions, and that, in his person, the Lancaster line would be pushed
from the throne of his fathers.
The will of Henry V. bears date (in 1417) three years before his marriage to the Princess Catharine,
and four years before the birth of his only son. By that will, the royal testator bequeaths his duchy of
Lancaster to his two brothers, John duke of Bedford, and Humphrey duke of Gloucester, in these terms:–
“I will and pray the aforesaid feoffee, &c., in the castles and manors of Halton and Clitheroe, and in all other lordships, manors,
lands, tenements, rents, Services, and other possessions, &c., do depart, as evenly as ye may, in two parts equal, the same castles,
lordships, manors, &c. . And inasmuch as you may goodly, ye do assign in the t'one of the said two parts, castles, lordships, &c.,
in the south coasts, and in the t'other, do assign castles, &c., in the north coasts of England; [in the latter to] enfeoff my brother
John Duke of Bedford, and his heirs-male ; [in the south to] enfeoff my brother Humphrey Duke of Gloucester, to him and his heirs-
male, &c.”!
* This was the last will of Henry V., but the subsequent birth of a son abrogated its principal bequests, and the whole duchy of Lan-
caster descended to Henry VI.
1:32 Qſìjt #t3torm of 3Lantaghirt. CHAP. XI.
CHAPTER XI.
Scarcity of Records for History during the Wars of the Roses—Marriage of Henry VI.-Claims of the Rival Houses of
York and Lancaster to the Throne—Wars of the Roses—Henry VI. dethroned by Edward IV.--Henry seeks
an Asylum in Lancashire—Taken by Sir John Talbot—Sir John's Grant for this Service—Catastrophe of the
Lancastrian Family—Edward W. murdered in the Tower–Coronation of Richard III. His Warrant for seizing a
Rebel’s Land in Lancashire—The King's Jealousy towards the Duke of Richmond, Son-in-law of Lord Stanley,
extends to his Lordship—Attainder of Lady Stanley, Countess of Richmond—Landing of the Duke of Rich-
mond in England—Battle of Bosworth Field—Confiscation of Lancashire Estates—Union of the Houses of York
and Lancaster—Sweating Sickness—Lambert Simnell and Perkin Warbeck, Pretenders to the Throne—Fatal
Consequences of the Civil Wars to the Duke of York's Family (note)—Sir William Stanley accused of High
Treason : Condemned and Executed—Henry VII’s Royal Progress to Lancashire—Execution of Edward, Earl
of Warwick, the last Male of the Plantagenet Line—Death of Henry VII-A.D. 1472 to 1509.
; Richard III., during which time the wars between the houses of York and Lancaster raged
§ with so much fury; and that of the reign of Henry VII, when these intestine broils were
sº happily composed by the union of the rival houses in the persons of Henry VII. and his
É. queen ; yet there is no time, from the reign of King Stephen, so destitute as this of authentic
The Savage and murderous contests of the court and of the people, appear so to have disorganised
society, that the usual communications between the authorities in the provinces and the government were
neglected ; or, if proclamations and edicts were issued in the several counties, they perished with many of
those to whom they were addressed, the usual depositories being found almost entirely destitute of these docu-
ments. This paucity of official information is the more extraordinary, seeing that the art of printing, that
great engine of multiplication, was introduced into England by William Caxton in 1471, during the Wars of
the Roses. -
Many of the conquests made in France by Henry V. were lost during the regency appointed for the
government of England, in the nonage of his successor, who, in his twenty-third year, contracted marriage
with Margaret of Anjou, daughter of Regnier, titular king of Sicily, Naples, and Jerusalem. The command-
ing and masculine talents of his royal consort would, it was conceived, compensate for the weakness and
effeminacy of the king; and though she brought no possessions, the French province of the Maine, then a part
of the English territory, was, by a secret treaty, ceded to Charles, her uncle, on the consummation of the
royal marriage. By a singular coincidence, the king had, seven years before this event, changed the title of
“Anjou king of arms,” in the English heralds' college, to that of “Lancaster king of arms;” and in a list of
new-year's gifts presented by King Henry VI., in 1436, to the Lancaster herald, as well as to a person who
was then created a pursuivant of arms, by the title of Collar, there is a silver bell each, but for what purpose
it is difficult to comprehend."
No sooner had the queen arrived in the English court, than she entered into all the intrigues by which
it was agitated. The duke of Gloucester, uncle to the king, having become obnoxious to the predominant
party, at the head of which stood Cardinal Winchester and the dukes of Buckingham, Somerset, and Suffolk,
he was marked out as their victim. The duchess of Gloucester, Eleanor, the daughter of Lord Cobham, a
lady of haughty carriage and ambitious mind, being attached to the prevailing superstitions of the day, was
accused of the crime of witchcraft; and it was alleged against her and her associate, Sir Roger Bolingbroke, a
priest, and Margery Jourdain, the witch of Eye, that they had in their possession a wax figure of the king,
which they melted by a magical device before a slow fire, with the intention of wasting away his force and
vigour by insensible degrees. This story partakes of the nature of the kindred superstition which prevailed a
century and a half afterwards, and of which Ferdinando, earl of Derby, was the subject, if not the victim : and
we find that the wax figure in witchcraft takes its date at a period antecedent to the wars of the houses of York
and Lancaster. The imbecile mind of Henry was sensibly affected by this wicked invention; and the duchess,
on being brought to trial, and found guilty of the design to destroy the king and his ministers by the agency
of witchcraft, was sentenced to do public penance, and to suffer perpetual imprisonment, while her confederates
were condemned to death, and executed. After enduring the ignominy of her public penance, rendered
* Cotton. MSS. Cleop. F. iv. fo. 103 (Orig.)





CHAP. XI. Qſìje history ºf 3Lancashire, 133
peculiarly severe by the exalted station from which she had fallen, the duchess was banished to the Isle of
|Man, where she was placed under the ward of Sir Thomas Stanley. On her way to the place of exile, she
was confined for some time, first in Leeds castle, and afterwards in the castle of Liverpool. Events so con-
genial with the imagination of our great dramatic poet could scarcely fail to find their way into his historical
plays; and hence we find, in the second part of his Henry VI, a small stream of historical fact running
through an ample meadow of poetic fiction, in which the duchess is exhibited and detected in the midst of
these works of darkness.” After remaining in the Isle of Man some years, it would appear that this unfor-
tunate lady was transferred to Calais, under the ward of Sir John Steward, or, as he describes himself,
“Johannes Seneschallus, miles, filius Johannis Seneschalli, aliter dicti Scot Angli.” From the will of this
knight, it appears that he was a resident, and had an important command in Calais, in the mother church of
which town he desires to be buried. He names John Roos as his confessor; bequeaths to his eldest son,
Thomas, all his harness of war, and his ship, the Grace de Dieu, which his master, the duke of Bedford, had
given him, together with his lands in the marches of Calais. To Sir Thomas Criell he leaves “a ring with a
diamond, which Eleanor Cobham, duchess of Gloucester, gave me while she lived with me as my prisoner.”
The duke of Gloucester, if possible more unfortunate than his lady, was accused of high treason, in
aspiring to the throne, and summoned to take his trial before the high court of parliament at Bury St.
Edmund's ; but, on the eve of the investigation, he was found dead in his bed, without marks of violence,
though by no means without strong suspicion that he had fallen a victim to the cruel devices of his relentless
persecutors.
About this time two Lancashire knights at the head of the principal families in the county were actively
engaged in the delusive science of alchymy, and transmutation of metals—that ignis fatuus which has con-
ducted so many ingenious men to their ruin. The king had on a former occasion (1458) commissioned three
philosophers to make the precious metals, without receiving any return from them in gold and silver: his
credulity, however, like that of many wiser men, was unshaken by disappointment, and he issued a pompous
grant in favour of three other alchymists, who boasted that they could not only transmute the inferior metals
into gold and silver, but that they could also impart to man perpetual youth, with unimpaired powers of
mind and body, by means of a specific, called—“The Mother and Queen of Medicines—The inestimable
Glory—The Quintessence, or The Elixir of Life.” In favour of these three “lovers of truth and haters of
deception,” as they modestly styled themselves, Henry dispensed with the law passed by his royal grand-
father,”—a very unnecessary law, against the undue multiplication of gold and silver; and empowered, not
enabled, them to transmute the inferior into precious metals. This extraordinary commission had the
sanction of parliament, and two out of the three commissioners were Sir Thomas Ashton of Ashton-under-
Lyne, and Sir Edmund Trafford of Trafford; the latter of whom had assisted at the coronation of the king,
and received the honour of Knight of the Bath on that occasion. These sages, imposing probably upon
themselves as well as upon others, kept the king's expectations wound up to the highest pitch, and he actually
informed his people that the hour was approaching, when, by the means of the stone, he should be enabled to
pay off all his debts It is scarcely necessary to add, that this philosopher's stone never gave forth its
expected virtues; and the king's debts must have remained unpaid, had not his Majesty pawned the revenue
of the duchy of Lancaster, to satisfy the demands of his clamorous creditors. A patent for transmuting the
inferior metals into gold and silver was granted by the king to these two Lancashire alchymists in the 24th
year of his reign (7th April 1446), in which they were encouraged to prosecute their experiments, and by
which all the king's servants and subjects were interdicted from giving them any molestation."
The madness of party rage rendered the government of England indifferent to the retention of foreign
possessions; and the whole province of Bayonne, which had been obtained three centuries before, at the
price of so much blood and treasure, was ceded to France, with as little ceremony as in modern times a gold
snuff-box would be presented to a plenipotentiary. The indifference of the court was not shared by the
people. They beheld this curtailment of their ancient possessions with that disgust which it was so well
calculated to excite. The embers of discontent were easily blown into a flame by the duke of York and his
adherents. And the duke of Suffolk, the favourite of the king, and the reputed paramour of the queen, after
having been impeached on a charge of ceding the province of the Maine to Charles of Anjou without authority,
and surrendering the province of Bayonne without a struggle, was banished the kingdom. To prevent the
duke, whose friends were numerous and powerful, from ever again resuming the helm of state, he was seized
by a band of pirates, employed by his enemies, on his voyage to the continent, and his head struck off and
thrown into the sea. The popular insurrection of Jack Cade was a part of the same system of hostility
towards the house of Lancaster; and the duke of York at length openly advanced his claims to that sceptre
which the feeble representative of the house of Lancaster was unable to wield.
The seeds of this contest, though apparently sown in the time of King Edward III., may, in fact, be
traced back to the time of Henry III., who died a century before, leaving two sons, Edward I., and Edmund
1 Wilhelmi Wyrcestrii Annales Rerum Anglicarum, pp. 460, 461. * Shakespeare, Henry VI. part ii. act i. scene 4.
8 5 Henry IV c. 4. (1404). * Pat. 2, Num. 14, in Turr, Lond.
134 (The 39tgtorg of £antagjire. CHAP. XI.
Crouchback, earl of Lancaster, the founder of that house, whose inheritance afterwards, in a fourth descent,
fell on Blanch, married to John of Gaunt, the fourth son of Edward III., who, in right of his wife, was duke
of Lancaster; and whose son, Henry of Bolingbroke, afterwards Henry IV., dethroned Richard II., pretending,
amongst other things, that Edmund Crouchback was the elder son of Henry III., and unjustly set aside from the
crown because he was crook-backed. The crown remained, as we have seen, in the house of Lancaster, for three
descents, when Richard, duke of York, descended from Edmund Langley, younger brother of John of Gaunt,
made claim to the crown, by title of his grandmother, who was heir of Lionell, duke of Clarence, elder brother
of John of Gaunt. The pedigrees of these rival claimants have at all times formed matter of discussion in
English history; and one of our best historians, Mr. Hume, has fallen into some errors on this subject ; this
is the more to be wondered at, as the descents are exhibited with great clearness and perspicuity in the Rolls
of Parliament, 1 Edward IV. (1461), No. 8. -
Upon this ground the duke of York founded his claim, by succession, to the throne of England, and
was supported by a number of the most powerful nobles of the land. Amongst his partisans, the duke had
the fortune to number the earl of Warwick, a man of unbounded influence, combined with great decision of
character, and whose future achievements in this memorable quarrel obtained for him the name of the “king-
maker.” The duke's first demand was for a reform of abuses in the administration of public affairs. An
alarming disease by which the king was attacked at this juncture suggested the necessity of a regency; and
the duke of York, by the authority of parliament, though in contravention of the wishes of the queen and
her party, was appointed regent, under the designation of lieutenant of the kingdom.
On the recovery of the king, the duke of York was expelled from the regency, but his thirst for regal
power, combined with a consciousness of the legitimacy of his hereditary claims, fixed his wavering purpose.
Having levied an army in the north, the duke marched to St. Alban's, where the first battle between the
houses of York and Lancaster took place. In this battle, which was fought on the 12th of May 1454, the
Lancastrians suffered a severe defeat, and about five thousand of their troops remained dead upon the field,
amongst whom were the duke of Somerset, the duke of Buckingham, the earls of Northumberland and
Stafford, Lord Clifford, and a number of other persons of distinction. The king himself fell into the hands of
the duke of York, who assumed the power of governing the state, but rather in the capacity of regent than of
sovereign.
The blood spilt in the battle of St. Alban's was the first that flowed in that fatal contest, which was not
terminated in less than thirty years—which was signalised by thirteen pitched battles—and in which the
nobility of the land suffered more than any other order in the state. The people, divided in their affections
or led by their superiors, took different symbols of party; the partisans of the house of Lancaster chose the
red rose as their badge, while those of York took the white rose as their mark of distinction ; and the civil
wars were known over Europe by the name of the quarrel between the two roses. In addition to the red
rose, the house of Lancaster exhibited on state occasions a mound or sphere with the Lancaster arms em-
blazoned in the upper part of the circle ; they had also a feather and scroll worn in the hats of the more
elevated classes, and broom-pods by those of the inferior orders. The paper manufactured for their use in
their communications with each other, and for their public documents, bore a peculiar water-mark, and it was
only necessary to look through the sheet on which the Lancastrians wrote, to discover which side of the
quarrel the writers had espoused."
The affairs of the conflicting parties had not yet proceeded to the last extremity; the nation was kept
some time in suspense ; the vigour and spirit of Queen Margaret, supporting her small power, still proved a
balance to the great authority of Richard, which was impaired by his ill-defined objects; sometimes aspiring
to the immediate and at other times to the reversionary possession of the crown on the death of the present
king. The parliament again appointed the duke of York protector, owing to one of those relapses into mental
indisposition to which Henry was subject; but the queen soon produced her husband before the house of
lords, where he declared his intention to put an end to the protectorate, and to resume the government. The
archbishop of Canterbury, in the discharge of his duty as a christian prelate, endeavoured to mediate in the
differences between the two houses, and thus to prevent the further effusion of blood ; but though these
attempts were received by both parties with an appearance of cordiality, and though the duke of York passed
in procession through the streets of London hand in hand with Queen Margaret to the altar of St. Paul's,
on which the existing animosities were all to be sacrificed, it soon became evident that the reconciliation was
of the most transient kind, and a trifling difference between one of the king's retinue and another of the earl
of Warwick's, which brought on a combat between their respective partisans, blew it all into air.
The duke of York, having joined his sons at Ludlow Castle, was silently collecting forces to maintain his
claims, when the earl of Salisbury, while on his march to join the duke, was overtaken at Bloreheath in the
county of Stafford, by Lord Audley, at the head of a superior force of the Lancastrians. The battle, which
was fought on the 21st of September (1459), was long and sanguinary, but victory at length declared in
favour of the Yorkists, and the Lancastrians left two thousand four hundred men dead on the field, many of
* For representations of these badges and emblems see page 135.
CHAP. XI. (The #istory of £ancashire. 135
whom were from Lancashire and Cheshire; and amongst the slain was Sir R. Molyneux of Sefton, son-in-law
of Sir Thomas Stanley, the king's chamberlain. The duke of York had now openly declared his intention to
expel the princes of the Lancastrian line, and this was the first battle avowedly fought for the crown.
BADGES OF THE HOUSE OF LANCASTER.
The list of proscriptions which followed this battle sufficiently indicates that the men of Lancashire were
by no means unanimous in their support of the house of Lancaster. Parliament having assembled in six
weeks after the battle was fought, attainders were exhibited against Richard, duke of York, and his adherents,
and amongst the persons attainted of high treason for the part they took at Bloreheath, we find the names of
Thomas Nevill, John Nevill, Thomas Haryngton, Thomas Parre, and William Stanley, to which list was
added the name of Robert Boulde, the brother of Harry Boulde, knight, accused with others of having
industriously circulated a report that the king was dead. It further appears that the commons house of par-
liament charged Thomas, the first lord Stanley, with certain heavy offences, both of omission and commission,
as set forth in a declaration to the following effect:-"
That when Lord Stanley was required by the king to join him with such forces as he could collect, he came not ; but his
brother Sir William Stanley, with many of the lord's servants and tenants, joined the earl of Salisbury, and were with him at Bloreheath.
That when Edward Prince of Wales summoned Lord Stanley to come to him in all haste, his lordship delayed, saying he was not
ready, though he had been commanded to hold himself ready with his troops at a day's warning; such delay and absence being a
great cause of the loss (of the Lancastrians) at Bloreheath. That Lord Stanley was within six miles of the place, accompanied by
2000 men, and stayed three days after at Newcastle, but six miles from Eccleshall, where the queen and Prince of Wales were. That
the morning after the battle he sent a letter of excuse for not going to them, as |. That Lord Stanley after the battle in a
letter thanked God for the success of the earl of Salisbury, and trusted that he should be with the earlin another place, to stand him in
as good stead as if he had been with him there. That when the prince, in obedience to the king, sent for Lord Stanley's tenants in
the hundreds of Wirrall and Macclesfield, Cheshire, they were let *...] by Lord Stanley, so that they could not come. That a
cook of Lord Stanley, in Sir William Stanley's troops, being wounded at Bloreheath and left behind at Drayton, declared to divers
gentlemen that he was sent to the earl of Salisbury, in the name of Lord Stanley, with more of his fellowship. That various
persons wearing the livery of Lord Stanley were taken at the forest of Morff, Shropshire, and before death confessed that they were
sent by Lord Stanley to attend on Sir William, to assist the earl of Salisbury. To the prayer of the commons that the king would
have Lord Stanley committed to prison, to abide trial, the king returned a refusal in the courtly terms of “Le Roi advisera.”
It is remarkable that, although the battles fought between the houses of York and Lancaster for the
crown were so numerous, the county of Lancaster was not the scene of any one of these contests, and hence
the peaceable inhabitants of this county escaped many of the horrors that intestine wars never fail to inflict
in the immediate scene of their operation. The contamination of public morals was, however, felt here, as
well as in other parts of the kingdom. According to a solemn declaration of parliament, the complaints upon
this subject were loudly made throughout every part of the kingdom, of robberies, ravishments, extortions,
1 Rot. Parl. 38 Hen. VI. (1459), vol. v. p. 369.

136 - QThe 39tgtorg of £antagjire, CHAP. XI.
oppressions, riots, unlawful assemblies, and wrongful imprisonments. To aggravate these evils, the offenders
were aided and abetted by persons of station in the country, whose badges or liveries they wore, and by
whom the administration of justice was continually interrupted. Amongst the most notorious of the offenders
five-and-twenty are mentioned by name, and in this list we find “Robertus Pylkyngton, nuper de Bury in
Com. Lanc', Armiger” (the only Lancashire name), and other persons of equal respectability. These flagitious
outrages originated with the civil wars, the greatest of all national curses, and continued till those wars were
at an end, when the laws resumed their dominion.
The defection of a large body of veteran troops brought over from Calais by the earl of Warwick, which
deserted to the royal standard along with their commander, Sir Andrew Trollop, seemed for a time to
extinguish the hopes of the Yorkists; but they speedily recovered, and met the king's forces at Northampton.
Here a desperate and sanguinary conflict took place (July 10, 1460), which was decided against the Lancas-
trians, owing to the treachery of Lord Grey of Ruthin, who commanded King Henry's van, and who deserted
to the enemy. The loss on both sides amounted to ten thousand men, comprehending a large proportion of
the nobility and gentry, against whom the earl of Warwick and the earl of March principally directed their
hostility.
In the session of parliament which followed, a kind of compromise of the conflicting claims was adopted,
under the sanction of the legislature, by which Henry, who had been taken prisoner at the battle of North-
ampton, was to enjoy the crown of England and the duchy of Lancaster for life, but at his death they were
to descend to the duke of York, or to his heirs, in perpetuity. The queen could ill brook an arrangement by
which the title of her only son to the crown of England was extinguished. To support this title, she
collected a numerous army from the counties of Lancaster and Chester, and took up her station in the
neighbourhood of Wakefield, in the county of York. No sooner had the duke of York heard of this
formidable array of hostile troops, than he marched to the north, and took possession of Sandal Castle.
Conceiving that his courage would be compromised if he refused to meet a woman in battle, he quitted his
strong station and advanced into the plain, where the queen, aided by Lord Clifford, had the skill to place his
troops between two fires; and though the duke performed prodigies of valour, his army was completely
routed, and he himself was numbered amongst the slain. The Queen, proud of such a trophy, ordered the
duke's head to be struck off, and placed upon the gates of York, adorned with a paper crown, to indicate the
frailty of his claims— &
“Off with his head, and set it on York gates;
So York may overlook the town of York.”
Lord Clifford, still more sanguinary than his royal mistress, plunged his sword, after the battle was over, into
the breast of the earl of Rutland, the duke's youngest son, in revenge, as he alleged, for the death of his
father, who fell in the battle of St. Alban's, while fighting against the Yorkists. From this time the scabbard
was cast aside, and the earl of March, now become duke of York, determined to avenge the death of his
father and brother, and to obtain the crown, or to perish in the attempt. The battle of Mortimer's Cross,
fought on the second of February 1461, with the loss of four thousand men to the Lancastrians, seemed to
open the way to the gratification of young Edward's ambition; but the second battle of St. Alban's, fought
thirteen days afterwards (Feb. 15, 1461), in which Margaret, attended by the king, held the command, and
in which the earl of Warwick was worsted, changed the aspect of these ever-varying campaigns, though it did
not prevent Edward from marching to London and taking possession of the throne. Although Henry VI.
was dethroned, and Edward IV. seated in his place, the civil wars were by no means at an end. Margaret,
having returned to her favourite county of York, assembled an army of sixty thousand men; and King
Edward, with his celebrated general, the earl of Warwick, hastened into that county with forty thousand, to
give her battle. The hostile armies met at Towton, near Tadcaster, on Palm Sunday (March 29, 1461). In
this memorable battle, while the Yorkists were advancing to the charge, there happened a heavy fall of snow,
accompanied by wind, which drove full in the faces of the Lancastrians. Lord Falconberg, who led the van
of Edward’s army, improved this event by a stratagem ; he ordered a body of infantry to advance before the
line, and, after having sent a volley of flight arrows among the enemy, immediately to retire. The Lancas-
trians, imagining that they had got within reach of the opposite army, discharged all their arrows, which fell
short of the Yorkists. After their quivers were emptied, Edward advanced his line, and did execution with
impunity on the dismayed Lancastrians. The bow was, however, soon laid aside, and the sword decided the
combat, which ended in the total overthrow of King Henry's forces. Edward had issued orders, before the
battle, to give no quarter, and the routed army was pursued with dreadful slaughter. The flying troops
shaped their course to Tadcaster bridge, but, despairing of reaching it, they turned aside to a place where the
Cock, a small rivulet, discharges itself into the Wharf. This was done with so much hurry and confusion,
that the bed of the river was soon filled with dead bodies, which served as a bridge for the pursuers and the
pursued to pass over. The slaughter at this point was tremendous. According to the historians of the
period, thirty-six thousand seven hundred men fell in the battle and pursuit, and the waters of the Wharf
1 Rot. Parl. 38 Henry VI. (1459), vol. v. p. 368.
CEAP. XI. Çijt fligtúrg of £antasjirt. 137
Were deeply crimsoned with the blood of the victims. The heralds who numbered the dead upon the field
state the number of slain at twenty-eight thousand, and, under the sign-manual of King Edward, they give the
following
LIST OF THE NOBLEMEN AND KNIGHTS SLAIN IN THE BATTLE OF TowTON.
NOBLEMEN. Richard Welles, Lord Willoughby.
Henry Percy, Earl of Northumberland. Sir Ralph Bigot, Knt., Lord de Malley.
Thomas Courtney, Earl of Devonshire.
William Beaumont, Wiscount Beaumont. IKNIGHTS.
John Clifford, Lord Clifford. Sir Ralph Gray.
John Neville, Lord Neville. Sir Richard Jeney.
Randulf, Lord Dacre. Sir Harry Bellingham.
Lord Henry Stafford, of Buckingham. - Sir Andrew Trollop.
Lionel Welles, Lord Welles. With twenty-eight thousand numbered by the
Anthony Rivers, Lord Scales. º Heralds.
The parliament, which met on the 4th of November 1461, employed itself in the usual work of proscrip-
tion, and “ Henry of Derbie, otherwise duke of Lancaster, and the heirs of his body coming, were utterly
disabled from enjoying any inheritance, estate, or profits, within this realm or dominions of the same for
ever.” A number of noblemen and gentlemen were attainted for the vague offence of being present at the
death of the duke of York, slain in the battle of Wakefield, amongst whom were Richard Tunstall, Henry
Bellingham, and Robert Wittingham, knights. By the same parliament it was enacted that the attainder
of Henry VI. should subject him to the forfeiture of all the lands and possessions belonging to the duchy and
county palatine of Lancaster; and that King Edward and his queen should enjoy the duchy and liberties to
the same belonging, separate from the crown; and that the tenants of the said duchy and county should
enjoy all their liberties and franchises unimpaired. The battle of Towton Field seemed decisive of the wars
between the houses of York and Lancaster. Henry escaped into Scotland, while his more fortunate rival
repaired to London to meet his parliament, by which his title was recognised, and he was declared king by
right from the death of his father. Margaret, whose spirit and perseverance remained unsubdued, sailed for
France, to supplicate the French monarch to grant her forces for the purpose of reasserting the claims of her
house. With this request Louis so far complied as to place at her disposal two thousand troops, with which
she embarked for England. Having marched to Hexham, where she was joined by a number of volunteers
from Scotland, and from Lancashire and the other northern counties of England, an engagement took place
there on the 15th May, between the queen's troops and the Yorkists, now become the royal army, under
Montague, which issued in the total defeat of the Lancastrians, and the capture of the duke of Somerset and
Lords Roos and Hungerford, who were all three tried by a court-martial, convicted of high treason, and
immediately beheaded. “The fate of the unfortunate royal family of the Lancastrian house after this defeat,”
says Mr. Hume, “was singular, Margaret, flying with her son into a forest, dwelt some time concealed there,
and was at last conducted to the sea-coast, when she made her escape into Flanders. She passed thence into
her father's court, where she lived several years in privacy and retirement. Her husband was not so fortunate
or so dexterous in finding the means of escape. Some of his friends took him under their protection, and
conveyed him into Lancashire, where he remained concealed during a twelvemonth ; but he was at last
detected, delivered up to Edward, and thrown into the Tower.” The place of his concealment was Waddington
Hall, in the parish of Mitton Magna, in the north-eastern part of the county; and the person by whom he
was betrayed was Sir John Talbot, who, as a reward for his perfidy, or, as the grant terms it, “in consideration
of his good and faithful service in the capture of our great adversary,” etc., received a grant of twenty marks
(£13: 6:8) a-year from Edward IV., confirmed by his successor Richard III. (26th June 1484), and made
payable out of the issues and revenues of the county palatine of Lancaster.
Considering himself now securely seated on the throne, Edward surrendered himself up to those
voluptuous pleasures to which he was naturally so much inclined. His vices did not prevent him from
meditating a marriage with Bona, the sister to the queen of France, and Warwick was sent to negotiate the
alliance. While the earl was engaged in this mission, Edward became enamoured of the widow of Sir John
Gray of Groby, whose husband fell in the second battle of St. Alban's, while engaged on the side of the
house of Lancaster. Finding that the only way to the lady's chamber was through the church, he was
privately married to her; and hence the remark “that he married his wife because she would not become his
mistress, and took the wife of another man (Shore) as his mistress.” Warwick could not brook this insult.
He complained loudly of the king's conduct towards him, and associated himself with such malcontents as
seemed disposed to question and to overthrow the king's authority.
The earl being joined by the duke of Clarence, they collected a number of their adherents, and marched
into Lancashire, where they importuned Lord Stanley, who had married Eleonore, the earl of Warwick's
sister, to embrace their cause. To this application Lord Stanley returned a peremptory refusal, and the project
of rising in arms to displace his royal master was for the present abandoned by the earl of Warwick. The
“king-maker” was, however, of a spirit too intrepid to be diverted from his purpose by a disappointment of
T
138 - Çift fligforu ºf £antasijire. CHAP. XI.
this nature. In the month of September 1470, the attempt was renewed, and the earl and the duke, availing
themselves of the zeal of the Lancastrian party, and of the general discontent which Edward’s extravagance
and imprudence had excited, raised the standard of revolt in the centre of the kingdom, supported by
an army of 60,000 men. Edward hastened to encounter this formidable enemy, and the two armies approached
each other near Nottingham. On the eve of the battle, Edward was surprised in the night by the cry of
“War 1” when, supposing that all was lost, he fled into Norfolk, by the advice of his chamberlain, and from
thence escaped with difficulty to Holland. As a natural consequence of this royal panic and temporary
abdication, Henry VI. was taken from the Tower, and again seated on his precarious throne, under the
auspices of Clarence and Warwick, who did not fail to vest all the regal power in their own hands as regents.
The adherents of the House of York followed the king's example; and his queen, who had just been delivered
of Prince Edward, was amongst the fugitives. Queen Margaret, who was still abroad, received the intelligence
of the improved prospects of her house with rapture ; but before the winds, inconstant as her own fortune,
could waft her to the shores of England, the Sun of the house of Lancaster had set, never more to rise in
her family. - *
A supply of two thousand troops having been granted by the duke of Burgundy to Edward, he returned
to England, and disembarked, as Henry of Bolingbroke, earl of Derby and duke of Lancaster, had done, at
Ravenspur, in Yorkshire (on the 16th March 1471), declaring, as that duke had done, that his object was not
to challenge the throne, but merely to obtain his paternal inheritance. By one of those unaccountable
anomalies, which the absence of records and the vagueness of contemporary history disqualify us from explaining,
Edward was allowed by the regents to present himself, without molestation, in considerable force before the
gates of London, into which he was admitted without a struggle, and to re-ascend the throne, Henry having
very peaceably retired to the Tower. The battle of Barnet, fought April 14, 1471, three days after the
entrance of Edward into London, in which he commanded in person, terminated fatally for the house of
Lancaster; and Warwick himself, after having performed prodigies of valour as a foot-soldier, when he ought
to have been directing the operations of his army as a general, was numbered amongst the slain. Queen
Margaret reached the shores of England, accompanied by her son Edward, now eighteen years of age, just in
time to hear of the death of Warwick and the defeat of his army. This lion-hearted woman seemed now to
bow to her fate, and sought the privilege of Sanctuary ; but being urged by Tudor earl of Pembroke, and
others of the adherents of her house, to make another effort for the throne, she marched through Devon,
Somerset, and Gloucester, to Tewkesbury, daily accumulating fresh forces on her route ; here she was over-
taken by King Edward, and after a sanguinary battle overthrown. The queen and her son fell into the hands
of the victors; and to consummate the disasters of the royal house, Edward of Lancaster was murdered in
cold blood by Edward of York and his sanguinary brothers Gloucester and Clarence. His father, Henry VI.,
died suddenly a few days after in the Tower, to which place Margaret was committed as a state prisoner, and
after remaining six years in confinement, she was ransomed by Louis, king of France, at the price of fifty
thousand crowns. The queen survived her captivity four years, having spent the evening of her life in
solitude and exile. The reign of Edward, after the overthrow of the house of Lancaster, presents no subjects
connected with the history of this county, with the exception of a fruitless expedition into France to regain
the lost conquests of England, in which Lord Stanley and several Lancashire knights were engaged, but which
terminated in nothing better than an Ostentatious display of military strength. -
A copy of the will of Edward IV., made by Rymer, is deposited in the Rolls chapel," by which document
the king directs “that all the revenues, issues, profits, and commodities, commyng and growing of oure countie
palatine of Lancastre, and of alle our castelles, lordshippes, manoirs, lands, tenements, rents, and services in
the countie palatine and shire of Lancastre, parcell of Oure said duchie of Lancastre, with their membres and
appurtenances,” etc. shall be applied “towards the marriages of Our doughtres.” This will is of considerable
length, and bears date the 20th June 1475. -
In the last year of the reign of Edward IV. (1482) a petition was presented to parliament which had
been promoted in the south-eastern part of Lancashire, where the manufacture of hats has prevailed for many
ages to a great extent. This document serves to date, with tolerable accuracy, the period when alarms from
the consequences of improved machinery first began to manifest themselves in this county. The allegations
of the petition are in these terms:— .
“PRAYEN youre Highnes the Comons of this present, Parliament assembled. That whereas Huers,” Bonettes, and Cappes,
aswele Sengle as double, were wonte truly to be made, wrought, fulled and thikked by the myght and strength of men, that is to
say, with hande and fote; and they that have so made, wrought, fulled and thikked such Huers, Bonettes, and Cappes, have well
and honestly afore thys goten their lyvying therby, and therupon kept apprentices, servauntes, and good housholdes. It is so, that
ther is a subtile mean founde nowe of late, by reason of a Fullyng Mille, whereby mo Cappes may be fulled and thikked in one day,
than by the myght and strengthe of four-score men by hand and fote may be fulled and thikked in the same day: The which
Huers, Bonettes, and Cappes, so as it is aforesaid by the said Milles fulled and thikked, ben brosed, broken and deceyvably wrought,
and may in no wise by the mean of eny Mille be truly made, to the grete hurt of your Seid Highnesse, and of all your subjetts
which daily use and occupie the same, and to the utter undoyng of Suche your subjettes, as ben the makers of the same Huers,
* Excerpta Historica, p. 366. * Huers or pillions were a head-covering of cloth worn by priests and graduates.—H.
CHAP. XI. ght #igtúrg of lancashirt. 139
Bonettes, and Cappes, and wolde and entende to lyve by the true making of the same ; withoute youre most gracious helpe be shewed
to theim in this behalf.”
The petitioners conclude with a prayer that parliament will interdict, for two years at least, the use of
these fulling-mills; to which the reply is—“Le Roy le voet” (The King wills it). i
The intrigues of the court which followed on the death of Edward IV. were unbounded. The ancient
nobility, with the duke of Gloucester as protector at their head, opposed by every means in their power the
relations of the queen, who were considered as aspiring upstarts; and Earl Rivers, her brother, Sir Richard
Gray, one of her sons, and Sir Thomas Waughan, an officer in the king's household, were, by the authority of
the duke, committed to Pontefract Castle, for “setting variances amongst the states, to subdue and destroy the
noble blood of the realm ;” on which vague charge they were executed. Their real offence, however, consisted
in standing in the way of the duke's assumption of the crown, and no quantity of blood was thought too large
to be shed for the purpose of removing the impediments to his elevation. Tord-chamberlain Hastings shared
the same fate, for venturing to doubt whether the protector's arm, which had been withered from his birth,
was diseased by the sorceries of his queen-sister and Shore's wife. Lord Stanley escaped with difficulty, but
not without a severe contusion, a murderous blow being levelled at his head by the ruffians introduced into
the council-chamber, at Gloucester's bidding, to seize Hastings and hurry him away to execution." The duke
had evidently fixed his eye upon the throne, and was determined to ascend it at whatever price. To consum-
mate his purpose, his two nephews, Edward W. and his brother Richard duke of York, were smothered in the
Tower, whilst sleeping in their bed, by three assassins of the name of Dighton, Forest, and Slater, under the
direction of Sir James Tyrrel, a creature of the duke's. Having thus removed the obstacles in his way to
power, the coronation, which appeared to be preparing for Edward W., was appropriated by the duke of
Gloucester to his own purpose and that of his queen. The ceremony was of the most splendid kind, that the
gorgeousness of the scene might conceal the blood which contaminated the track to the throne. Lord Stanley,
who had just been liberated from the Tower, was placed in the humiliating situation of bearing the mace
before the king, and the “Lady of Rychemond” bore the queen's train. The other Lancashire peers present
were Lord Grey of Wilton and Lord Morley; and among the knights were Sir William Stanley, Sir Edward
Stanley, Sir Charles Pilkington, Sir Rafe Ashton, and Sir William Norris.” Also Sir James and Sir Robert
Harrington.” * • -
During the short reign of Richard III. a considerable number of letters-patent were granted by the king.
These documents, in Latin and in English, are preserved in what is styled “a very valuable book,” belonging
to the lord treasurer Burghley, in the Harleian collection of the British Museum ; and the following are their
titles, so far as they relate to the county and duchy of Lancaster:—
HARL. MSS. Cod. 433. [Temp. Rich. III.]
ART.
14 To John Howard, knt.; the Office of Chief Steward of the duchy of Lanc. South of Trent.
21 To Henry Stafford Duke of Buckingham the offices of constable, steward, and receiver of the castle, manor, and town of
Monmouth, in S. Wales, and of all the other castles, lordships, manors, towns, etc., which are parcels of the Duchy of
Lanc. in S. Wales. The duke is also appointed keeper or head forester of the forest and chace of Hodewake, and of all
the other forests and chaces being parcels of the Duchy aforesd in S. Wales. -
43 To Sir Richd Huddlestone the office of receiver of the lordps manors, lands, & tenemts in Cumberld & Lancashe which were
formerly Thos Grey's (Marquis of Dorset). -
63 A Writ appointg Guy Fairfax knt, and Milo Metcalf, Chief Justiciaries of Lanc. .*
70 Royal Letters for the advowson of the Parish church of Gayton, parcel of the Duchy of Lanc. :
86 Letters Pat., to Thos Metcalfe the office of Chancellor of the Duchy of Lanc. and the custody of the seal for the same office.
87 Ditto.
92 To Guy Fairfax knighte th' office of Chieff Juge of Lancastre.
93 To Miles Metcalfe the office of one of the Juges at Lancastre.
94 To Thomas Molineux the office of king's Serjeant and Attorney at Lawe, in all his courtes within the county palatyme of L.
99 To Henry Stafford, D. of Buck., the office of constable, stuarde, and receivour of the castles, mannors, & townes of Moune-
mouthe and Kydwelly, of all castles, lordships, townes, etc., in Wales, and the Marches parcels of the Duchie of Lanc. &
thoffice of Pananster 24 Forster and Maister of the Game in all the forests and chaces of Wales and Marches of the same,
belonging to the said Duchie. -
102 To John Howard D. of Norfolke the office of Chief Steward of the Duchy of Lanc. South of Trent.
103 To Thomas Pylkyngtone knight, the office of Sheriff of the county of Lancr and the county Palatine.
106 To John Dudley Esq. the office of Stewd of the Duchy within the counties of Berks and Southampton.
107 To Sir John le Scrop—chamberlain of the Duchy.
113 To Sir Rica Huddlestone receiver ut suprā.
116 To therle of Surry the Stewardship of the Duchie.
130 To Thomas Kebell thoffice of Generall Attourney of the Duchie of Lanc. in Engld & Wales.
171 To W. Castby thoffice of Steward of Daventre, Higham Ferys, Paverells Fee, &c.
1. According to Sir William Dugdale, quoting from Stow, this 2 Harl. MSS. 2115, f. 152.
catastrophe might have been avoided if Lord Hastings had given 8 Hollinshed’s Chron. Vol. iii. p. 398.
heed to a dream of Lord Stanley's on the preceding night, in which * This word is thus marked with the () in the Harl, catalogue.
his lordship beheld a boar, Gloucester's crest, goring with his tusks There is no doubt of its accuracy, and that it is the name of the
Hastings and Stanley till the blood ran about their shoulders. officer who superintended forest-panage. i
140 Çür #istorg ºf £ancashire. - CHAP. XI.
$
177 To Adam Nelsone th office of Messagere of the Duchie, and Ushere of the councelle house ordeyned for the same.
178 To Rica Pottyere the Attorneyshp of the Duchie.
179 To therle of Surry ut supra. - -
276 To John Fitz Herbert the Baillieff of the newe Franchesie of the Duchie of Lanc. in the countie of Derby.
327 “To John Duc of Norfolke thoffice of chieffe Steward,” as above in the Latin patent.
518 To Nicholas Gardyner thexecutor of John Gardyner License to found a chauntrie in our Ladie church of Lanc, & to mortize
12 b. of land there.
519 To Morgan Kidwelly the Stewardship of all the lordshps of the Duchy of Lanc, or otherwise belonging to the king in the co,
of Dorset. -
824 To Thoms Ld Stanley Lord Strange many castles lordships manoirs to hold by knights service whereof part of them belonged
to Roger Tocot, Henry Stafford Duc of Buckingham, &c.
1628 “Coffission to the Lord Stanley constable of England to sease vnto the kinges use the Manoir of Brightmeed in the counte
of Lancaster that late was of Thomas Seint Legere his rebelle. Yeven at London the 16th day of Dec. ano primo.”
Several other commissions to the same to seize upon lands belonging to the above Sir Thomas St Leger and Henry Stafford
D. of Buckingham, are found here.
2001 Warrant for the Maire &c. of Lanc. to reteigne 20 marks (£13: 6:8) of the fee firme of their towne which the king hath
geven unto them. Yeven at Stoney Stratforde ye 6th of Novrao 2do. (1484).
2210 Letter patent from Edw 5 to Thos Kebeele for the attorneyship of the Duchy (1483).
2366 Fees & Wages of officers.
2377 Fees payable to officers in the Rape of Pevensey and parcel of the Duchy of Lancaster.
The following is the warrant or commission (numbered 1628) from Richard III. to Lord Stanley to
seize the lands of Sir Thomas St. Leger, who had married Anne, the king's eldest sister, but who had revolted
against his authority, and suffered the punishment of death in 1483.
Commission for Seizing the Lands of a Rebel in Lancashire. [1 Rich III. 1483.]
The Lord “Ricardus. To our right trusty & right welbeloued Cousin & Counsellor the Lord Stanley, Constable of
Stanley. } England, greting. We wil and charge you and by these presentes yeue you ful auctorite & power to sease into our
handes the manoir or Lordship of Brightmede in our Countie of Lancastre that late was of Th. Seintleger our Rebell and thisseues
Rentes and Reuenues thereof from Michelmesse last passed to take & perceyue to our Vse & behaves, yeuing straitly in commaunde-
ment to the officer and tenauntes of the said maner or lordship and to all others our officer treue liegeaunces and subjettes that wnto
you and your assignees in thexecucion of the premisses they be attending aiding fauouring & assisting as it apperteineth. Yeuen at
London the xvj day of December Anno primo (1483).
[Ten other commissions follow the above; or, rather, ten memoranda of such commissions, addressed to “The Lord Stanley,”
to seize lands and manors belonging to Sir Thomas St. Leger and the duke of Buckingham, forfeited by rebellion, and situated in
the counties of “Wilts, Warre, Leicestre, Chester, Beds, Hertford, Somers, Rutland, and Oxford.”]
A Warrant, or Commission. [2 Rich. III. 1485.]
The LOrde “A commission directed to al knightes Squiers gentilmen and al other the kinges subjectes of the Counte of
Stanley & Chester. Shewyng that the king hath deputed the lord Stanley, the lord Straunge and Sr Willm. Stanley to have
Strange & the Rule and leading of al psones appointed to do the king service when they be warned ageinst the kyng's Rebelles
Sr Wm Stanley, ) Charging them therefore to provyde effectual attendaunce. And if any Rebelles arryue in thoose partes than al the
power that they can make be ready to assist the Saide lorde and knight, W pon theire faiths and 'legeaunces &c. Yeven at Windesore
&c. (Jan. 13, 1485) -
The same “A lyke Commission to the knightes Squiers gentilmen and other of the Countie of Lancastre to geve their attend-
lorde. aunce vpon the lorde Stanley & Straunge to doo the kinge grace service ageinst his Rebelles in whatsoever place within
this Royme thay fortune tarryue, Wipon their feithe & leigeaunces. Yeuen at Westm'r the xiiij day of Januer. Ao ijdo (1485).
[Fol. 201, b.]
The first article in this volume of the Harl. MSS. Cod. 592, is headed “PRO DUCATU LANCASTRIE,” and
consists of a patent, by which the king (supposed to be Edward IV., though it is not so expressed, the style
being simply “Bdwardus Dei grafia,” etc.) confirms to himself and heirs, being kings of England, in perpetuity,
all the liberties, privileges, customs, etc., of the county palatine and duchy of Lancaster, previously granted by
his ancestors, kings of England, by charters, which are here recited. This article is an Inspeximus, tested
thus:–“Witness the king at Westminster, November 4.” No date of the dominical or regal year. It
consists of twenty-four very large folio pages.
In order to reconcile Lord Stanley to Richard’s usurpation, he was constituted steward of his household,
and constable of England for life, being at the same time invested with the most noble order of the Garter.
All these acts of royal favour failed to extinguish the hatred which that nobleman bore to the tyrant, and to
his sanguinary deeds. Of this, the king, whose suspicions never slumbered, was fully aware ; and that he
might have the more secure hold on the allegiance of Lord Stanley, and prevent him from exciting an insur-
rection in Lancashire and Cheshire, where his power and influence were almost unlimited, Richard insisted that
George Lord Strange, the son and heir of the house of Stanley, should remain in his hands as a hostage.
These suspicions were increased by the circumstance of Lord Stanley having married for his second wife
Margaret, the widow of Edmund earl of Richmond : by whom she had issue, Henry earl of Richmond : the
representative of the house of Lancaster. Richard's displeasure was subsequently marked by an act of attainder
against the countess of Richmond, in which it is set forth that
“Forasmuch as Margaret Countesse of Richmond, Mother to the Kyngs greate Rebelle & Traytour, Herry Erle of Richemond,
hath of late conspired, confedered, & committed high Treason agenst Oure Soveraigne Lorde the King Richard the Third, in dyvers
& Sundry Wyses, & in especiall in Sendyng messages, writyngs & tokens to the said Henry, desiryng, procuryng, & stirrying hym by
the same, to come into this Roialme, & make Werre agenst Oure said Soveraigne LOrde; to the which desyre, procuryng, & stirrynge
the said Henry applied hym, as it appereth by experience by hym late shewed in that behalf. Also the said Countesse made
CHAP. XI.
The history of Lancashire. 141
chevisancez of greate somes of money, as well within the Citee of London, as in other places of this Roialme to be employed to the
execution of the said Treason & malicious purpose ; & also the said Countesse conspired, confedered, & imagymed the destruction of
oure said Soveraigne Lord, & was assentyng, knowyng, & assistyng Henry, late Duke of Buckyngham.
The tyrant, of his grace and favour, as he alleges, but under the influence of his fears, as is more probable,
and in consideration of the faithful services done and intended to be done by Thomas, Lord Stanley, husband
of the countess, remitted the great punishment of treason—public execution. But at the same time he declared
all her property forfeited to the crown, whether in fee-simple, fee-tail, or otherwise; but not to the prejudice of
Thomas, Lord Stanley, or any other person or persons, with the exception of the countess of Richmond. It
does not appear that the countess was ever removed from Lathom House for trial, though it was ordered that
she should be kept in ward by her lord, in private apartments, and not suffered to hold any communication
with the king's enemies. One of the first acts of the next reign was to annul this act of attainder, and fully
to reinstate the “noble princess Margaret, countess of Richmond, in all her possessions.” Margaret, countess
of Richmond, was the only daughter of John first duke of Somerset, the grandson of John of Gaunt and
Catharine Swinford. This lady had married Edmund, earl of Richmond, and Henry, the present earl, was the
only issue of that marriage. She had afterwards married Sir Henry Stafford, and at his death espoused Thomas,
Lord Stanley. The present earl of Richmond had long been a source of disquietude to the reigning family of
the house of York, who had spared no pains to obtain possession of his person, for the purpose of administering
those murderous remedies for the cure of a disputed title which they so well knew how to apply. But he
survived all their machinations, and an alliance, suggested by the marquis of Dorset and the bishop of Ely,
between the earl of Richmond and Elizabeth, the eldest daughter of Edward IV., promised to effect a union
between the Red and the White Roses, for which the nation had long panted with ardent desire. The first
attempt to accomplish this object by the agency of the duke of Buckingham failed, and the duke and a number
of his friends became the victims of the premature enterprise.”
Retarded in the attainment of his object by the failure of the duke of Buckingham's enterprise, but by
no means discouraged from pursuing it, the earl of Richmond, “England's hope,” embarked from Normandy
with a small army of two thousand men, with which he landed at Milford Haven, where he was joined by Sir
Richard Rice ap Thomas, who had been entrusted with a command in Wales by the tyrant Richard. In his
march into the interior of the country he was joined by the powerful family of Shrewsbury, as well as by Sir
Thomas Bourchier and Sir Walter Hungerford, and a large number of persons of inferior note. Richard,
aware of the storm by which he was menaced, had collected a well-appointed army in Nottinghamshire, and
towards this point the earl of Richmond directed his course, by way of Tamworth.
Richard, knowing that he had forfeited all claim to the confidence of his people, that the enormities he
had committed for the attainment of the throne had withdrawn from him the flower of his nobility, and that those
who feigned allegiance to his person and government panted for an opportunity to betray and desert him, became
more suspicious of his friends than alarmed by his enemies. The persons of whom he entertained the greatest
suspicion, and those who had the power more than any others to decide his fate, were Lord Stanley and his
brother Sir William Stanley. By a strange infatuation the king commissioned Lord Stanley to raise an army
in the counties of Lancaster and Chester. The number of soldiers under the command of the Stanleys was so
considerable, that the decision of the approaching battle, on which a kingdom depended, was placed in their
hands. The day before the battle commenced, Richard marched to Leicester at the head of his army, and
entered that town with a countenance strongly characteristic of the gloomy state of his mind. He took up
his quarters for the night at the principal inn,” and concentrated his outposts, in preparation for the approach-
ing engagement.
1 Rot. Parl. 1 Henry VII. (1485) vol. vi. page 286.
2 Amongst others, a gentleman of the name of William Coling-
bourne, who had been high sheriff of Wiltshire and Dorsetshire,
suffered death for having written the following whimsical jew,
d'esprit, in allusion to the names of the two royal favourites,
Ratcliffe and Catsby, and to the crest of Lovel, which was a dog,
and that of Richard, which was a boar:—
“The Rat, the Cat, and Lovel the dog,
Rule all England under a Hog.”
* Richard slept at the Blue Boar Inn, and the bedstead where-
on he is supposed to have lain is still preserved, and its history is
thus handed down —“In the year 1613, Mrs. Clark, keeper of that
inn, was robbed by her servant-maid and seven men, and the relation
is thus given by Sir Roger Twisden, who had it from persons of un-
doubted credit, who were not only inhabitants of Leicester, but saw
the murderers executed : “When King Richard III. marched into
Leicestershire against Henry, earl of Richmond, afterwards Henry
VII., he lay at the Blue Boar Inn, in the town of Leicester, where
was left a large wooden bedstead, gilded in some places, which after
his defeat and death in the battle of Bosworth, was left, either
through haste, or as a thing of little value (the bedding being all
taken from it), to the people of the house : thenceforward, this old
bedstead, which was boarded at the bottom (as the manner was in
those days), became a piece of standing furniture, and passed from
tenant to tenant with the inn. In the reign of Queen Elizabeth, this
house was kept by one Mr. Clark, who put a bed on this bedstead ;
which his wife going to make hastily, and jumbling the bedstead, a
piece of gold dropped out. This excited the woman's curiosity ; she
narrowly examined this antiquated piece of furniture, and, finding
it had a double bottom, took off the uppermost with a chisel, upon
which she discovered the space between them filled with gold, part
of it coined by Richard III. and the rest of it in earlier times. Mr.
Clark (her husband) concealed this piece of good fortune, though by
degrees the effects of it made it known, for he became rich from a
low condition, and, in the space of a few years, mayor of the town ;
and then the story of the bedstead came to be rumoured by the
servants. At his death, he left his estate to his wife, who still con-
tinued to keep the inn, though she was known to be very rich ;
which put some wicked persons upon engaging the maid-servant to
assist in robbing her. These folks, to the number of seven, lodged
in her house, plundered it, and carried off some horse-loads of valu-
able things, and yet left a considerable quantity of valuables
scattered about the floor. As for Mrs. Clark herself, who was very
fat, she endeavoured to cry out for help, upon which her maid
142 QThe #istory of £antašijire, CHAP. XI.
The dawn of the day found the two hostile armies on Bosworth Field; Richard in the command of
twelve thousand men, and Richmond with about half that number, Lord Stanley had placed himself near
the neighbouring village of Atherstone, six miles from the field of battle, with a force differently estimated by
historians, but probably amounting to about five thousand men. Even now the determination which his
lordship had taken was not generally known in the conflicting armies, though the commanders, no doubt, had
sagacity enough to discover that he had abandoned Richard, and was determined to support his rival to the
throne. The sword suspended over the neck of Lord Strange, who was in Richard's camp as a hostage, hung
only by a hair; and it was only averted by an opportune intervention.
Richard, extending his troops as widely as possible, to intimidate his enemy by an impression of the
great strength of the army to which they were opposed, gave the command of the vanguard to the duke of
Norfolk and the earl of Surrey; he himself led the centre, which was guarded on the flanks by the horse, and
led on by the bowmen. Richmond, having placed his bowmen in front, under the command of the earl of
Oxford, gave the command of the right wing to Sir Gilbert Talbot, and of the left to Sir John Savage. The
command of the horse he took upon himself, aided by his uncle, the earl of Pembroke. Richmond having, by
a successful manoeuvre, possessed himself of a path which intersected a swamp, and thrown the glare of the
sun in the face of the enemy, the battle commenced. The first shock of the two armies showed sufficiently.
the different spirit by which they were animated. For a while, however, the contest hung in suspense ; but
the appearance of Lord Stanley, the arbiter of the battle of Bosworth Field, who declared in favour of his son-
in-law, decided the fate of the day. The king's forces fought without spirit, and seemed more anxious to
secure their own safety than to obtain victory. In this emergency Richard was advised to quit the field, and
a horse was provided for the purpose ; but he had placed his all upon the issue, and he fought like a hero.
His only remaining hope was now in the death of Richmond; and, in a desperate onset to accomplish that
object, he slew Sir William Brandon, the earl's standard-bearer, with his own hands, and, at the next moment,
dismounted Sir John Cheyney. The commanders of the two armies were now on the point of coming in
personal collision, an event of which they both seemed ambitious; but at the moment when the combat was
about to take place, Sir William Stanley broke into the line with his troops, and surrounded Richard, who
still continued to fight with all the courage and desperation of his nature ; but at length, sinking under the
superior force by which he was assailed, fell dead on the field, pierced with innumerable wounds, and covered
with gore. The numbers of the slain in the battle of Bosworth Field, like the numbers engaged in the
contest, are differently estimated; some accounts rate them as low as a thousand, and others as high as four
thousand. The loss, however, fell principally upon the Yorkists, as Sir William Talbot, in an account written
to his friends immediately after the battle, says that the number of slain on the part of the earl of Richmond
did not exceed ten persons ! The duke of Norfolk, Lord Ferrars of Chartley, Sir Robert Ratcliffe, Sir Robert
Piercy, and Sir Robert Brackenbury, were all numbered with the dead; and Sir William Catesby, the ready
instrument of all Richard's crimes, being taken prisoner, was beheaded with several others at Leicester two
days afterwards. After the battle, Sir William Stanley, who, with his brother, had contributed so much to
the success of the day, took the crown from the tent of Richard, and, placing it upon the head of the earl of
Richmond, crowned him on the field by the title of King Henry VII. A large portion of the spoils of the
field fell into the hands of Sir William Stanley, and were allowed by the king's permission to enrich that
gallant knight. “Richard's body being stripped naked, all tugged and torn, and not so much as a clout left
to cover his shame, was trussed behind a pursuivant-at-arms like a hog or a calf; his head and arms hung on
one side the horse, and his legs on the other, all besprinkled with mire and blood, and was so carried to
Leicester.” “No king,” says Mr. Hutton, “was ever so degraded a spectacle ; humanity and decency ought
not to have suffered it.” Mr. Carte says, “they tied a rope about his neck, more to insult the helpless dead
than to fasten him to the horse.” After lying exposed to the inspection and insults of the populace, the
tyrant's body, at the end of the second day, was taken to the church of the Grey Friars, and there buried in
a stone coffin.” -
Thus ended the wars between the houses of York and Lancaster, so far as the members of the house of
York were concerned, in which from eighty to ninety thousand Englishmen were slain. Three kings, several
princes of the blood, sixty-two nobles, one hundred and thirty-nine knights, four hundred and forty-one
esquires, and six hundred and thirty-eight of the gentry of the kingdom, fell in these memorable wars. The
contest between the rival houses was not, however, an unmixed evil; probably it was more beneficial in its
remote consequences than injurious in its immediate effects. Up to that time, the property, as well as the
thrust her fingers down her throat, and choked her ; for which fact
she was burnt, and the seven men, who were her accomplices, were
hanged at Leicester some time in the year 1613.’” -
1 A monument was subsequently erected to his memory, with his
“picture,” as Sandford calls it, “in alabaster;” and, ten years
afterwards, Henry VII., on his Lancashire progress, paid £10 : 1s.
to James Keyley for this erection, which perished with the dis-
solution of the monastery in the following reign. -
* “In my remembrance,” says Philip de Commines, “eighty
princes of the blood royal of England perished in these convulsions.
Those that were spared by the Sword renewed their sufferings in
foreign lands. I myself saw the duke of Exeter, the king's brother-
in-law, walking barefoot after the duke of Burgundy's train, and
earning his bread by begging from door to door.” Sir John Fenn, in
his preface to “Original Letters,” written during the reign of Henry
VI., Edward IV., and Richard III., says that every individual of
two generations of the families of Somerset and Warwick fell on the
field, or on the scaffold, as victims of those bloody contests.
CHAP. XI. Ciſt ºigturn ºf £ancashire, 143
power of the nation, was chiefly divided amongst the king, the nobility, and the clergy. The great mass of
the people of England were slaves, dependent upon the will, and the absolute property of their lords, trans-
ferable like cattle, and held in nearly the same estimation. Such was their degradation, that the honour of
hazarding their lives to settle a quarrel between the Red and the White Roses was too great for them to enjoy;
but as every lord was obliged, by a kind of moral necessity, to take part in this widely-extended contest, either
on one side or the other, it became necessary for his own safety to seek the aid of his vassals; and before
those vassals could be allowed to take the field, it was necessary that they should be emancipated. In this
way, the feudal system, introduced before the Conquest, and consolidated by the Conqueror, was shaken to
its centre ; trade and commerce hastened its downfall; villeinage was virtually at an end as early as the
reign of Edward VI. ; and in the twelfth year of Charles II. (1660) the name itself was erased from the
statute-books. -
One of the first acts of King Henry VII. was to reverse the attainders passed against the adherents of
the house of Lancaster;" this was followed by an act of confiscation against the property of the adherents of
the tyrant Richard, amongst whom were Sir Thomas Pilkington, Sir Robert Harrington, and Sir James Har-
rington, all of the county of Lancaster, whose estates were principally awarded to the Stanley family for their
services at the battle of Bosworth Field. As a further reward, his lordship was created earl of Derby, elected
a member of his majesty's privy council, and appointed a commissioner for exercising the office of lord high
steward of England. At the same time an arrangement was concluded between the earl and his wife,
Margaret, countess of Richmond and Derby, the king's mother, in recompense of her jointure and dower, and
ratified by the sanction of parliament.” A considerable augmentation was made to her possessions six years
afterwards, by the grant of the lordships and manors of Ambursbury and Winterbourne, in the county of
Wilts, and the manors of Henxstrigge and Charlton Canvile, in the county of Somerset, of which Henry VII.
was seised, and which had been granted to Henry Beaufort, then Cardinal Beaufort and bishop of Winchester.”
Henry VII., in compliance with the wishes of his people, at length espoused the Princess Elizabeth, and thus
was accomplished the union so long wished for by an exhausted nation, between the houses of York and
Lancaster. - .*.* .
A disease hitherto unknown, which, from its symptoms, was called the “sweating sickness,” prevailed
at this time (1485) in Lancashire, and in other parts of the kingdom. Happily the malady, which was most
fatal, was of short duration, having made its appearance about the middle of September and run its course
before the end of October in the same year. “The complaint was a pestilent fever,” says Lord Verulam,
“attended by a malign vapour, which flew to the heart and seized the vital spirits; which stirred nature to
strive to send it forth by an extreme sweat. If the patient were kept in an equal temperature, both for
clothes, fire, and drink, moderately warm with temperate cordials, whereby nature's work were neither
irritated by heat nor turned back by cold, he commonly recovered, and the danger was considered as past in
twenty-four hours from the first attack. But infinite numbers of persons died suddenly of it before the
manner of the cure and attendants were known. It was conceived not to be an epidemical disease, but to
proceed from a malignity in the constitution of the air, gathered by the predisposition of seasons; and the
speedy cessation declared as much.” Fifteen years afterwards this county was visited by the plague, which
spread extreme alarm through the country, and the king, to escape the danger of contagion, sailed with his
family to Calais. This sweating sickness had so completely subsided in London that the ceremony of the
coronation, which had been fixed for the 30th of October 1485, took place according to appointment; on
which occasion only two elevations and one new creation were made in the peerage; and the parties so
honoured were-Jasper earl of Pembroke, the king's uncle, created duke of Bedford; Thomas lord Stanley,
created earl of Derby; and Edward Courtney, created earl of Devon.
The partiality in favour of the house of York was still felt in the north of England, and particularly in
that city which gave its name to the party of the White Rose. The king, to conciliate the affèctions of his
subjects, determined to make a progress into the north of England. On his way thither he learned that
Viscount Lovel, with Sir Humphrey Stafford and Thomas his brother, had quitted the sanctuary at Colchester,
in which they had taken refuge, and were again in the field at the head of a body of insurgents. To meet
the impending danger a small force was immediately collected under the duke of Bedford, which Lord Lovel
finding himself unable to resist, dispersed his army and fled into Lancashire, where he took up his
residence in secret under the roof of Sir Thomas Broughton, of Broughton in Furness. Having remained
here for some time, and arranged a Secret correspondence with the knight, he at length embarked for
Flanders, the seat of all the intrigues against the existing English dynasty, carried on under the fostering
care of the duchess of Burgundy, widow of Charles the Bold. An opinion prevailed, propagated by the
malcontents, that one of the sons of Edward IV., said to have been murdered in the Tower by order of his
uncle, the duke of Gloucester, still survived; and that his murderers, smitten with remorse when they had
despatched one of the children, suffered the other to escape. Richard Simon, a priest living at Oxford, had
as his pupil the son of a baker named Lambert Simnel, of the age of about fifteen years, a prepossessing
1 Rot. Parl. 1 Hen. VII. vol. vi. p. 273. * Rot. Parl. 1 Hen. VII. vol. vi. p. 311. 8 Rot. Parl. 7 Hen. VII, vol. vi. p. 446.
144 Oſije Đígtorg ºf £antaghirt. - CHAP. XI.
youth of princely presence, whom Simon concluded would fitly personate the young prince." To aid the
enterprise this juvenile pretender was sent over to Ireland, where he found many supporters of his claims,
and where he was crowned as Edward VI. ; but his principal friend was the duchess of Burgundy, whose
hatred to the house of Lancaster was implacable, and who, though possessed of many good qualities, seemed
under the restraint of no moral principle when engaged in attempting the subversion of the throne of Henry
VII. With the aid of the duchess, by whom Simnel was provided with two thousand troops, under the
command of Martin Swart, he embarked for England in suitable vessels, commanded by Captain Thomas
Gerardine, and accompanied by a large number of Irish adventurers, who seemed well inclined to forget the
danger to which they exposed themselves, when a crown was the prize to be gained by the successful party
in the contest. Simnel and his followers landed at the Pile or Peel of Fouldrey, in the bay of Morecambe,
in the county of Lancaster ; here he encamped on a common subsequently called Swart Moor, in Furness,
where he drew together a number of adherents, charmed with the chivalrous character of the enterprise, and,
amongst others, Sir Thomas Broughton, the friend and correspondent of Lord Lovel. On the breaking-up of
the camp, the insurgents, under John de la Pole, earl of Lincoln, marched southward through Yorkshire into
Nottinghamshire, where they were joined by Lord Lovel, the devoted servant of the fallen tyrant Richard III.
The king, with his usual promptitude and decision, hastened to give the insurgents battle ; and having been
reinforced by six thousand men, under the earl of Shrewsbury and Lord Strange, accompanied by seventy
knights and persons of distinction, the hostile armies met at Stoke Field, near Newark. The battle, which was
fought on the 6th June 1487, on the south side of that village, was fierce and obstinate, and continued for
three hours, but at length victory declared in favour of the king. All the leaders in the rebel army were
killed upon the field, including the earl of Lincoln, Earl Kildare, Francis Lord Lovel, Martin Swart, Sir Thomas
Pilkington, and Sir Thomas Broughton. The number of the rebel troops slain amounted to four thousand,
and of the king's forces to about half that number. Amongst the prisoners was the pretended Edward
Plantagenet, alias Lambert Simnel, and the wily priest Simon, his tutor. The youth, beneath the resentment
of Henry, found his level as an assistant-cook in the king's kitchen, more happy, probably, than if he had
worn the king's crown ; and as a reward for his merits, he was afterwards promoted to the office of one of
his majesty's falconers. As for Simon, he was committed to prison, and doomed to perpetual incarceration.
The king rewarded the services of Lord Strange by conferring upon his father, Lord Stanley, the confiscated
estates of Sir Thomas Broughton. “With this unhappy gentleman, the family of Broughton, which had
flourished for many centuries, and had contracted alliances with most of the principal families in these parts,
was extinguished in Furness.”
After the battle of Stoke, the king made another journey into the northern counties, but it was rather
an itinerant circuit of justice, to try and sentence the rebels, than a royal progress. Strict inquisition was
made into the conduct of the offenders, whether they had been principals or abettors in the late rebellion.
Many persons were sentenced to death, and executed, but the prevailing punishment was by fine and con-
fiscation, which spared life, but raised money—at all times the distinguished characteristic of King Henry's
policy.
In the reign of Richard III. Sir William Stanley became seised of certain royal demesne lands, “as a
fee of the manors of Pykhill, Sessewyke, and Bedewall, the moite of the manors of Istoid, Hewlyngton, Cob-
ham, Hem, Wrexham, Burton, Alyngton, Esclusham, Eglosecle, Ruyaban, Abynbury, Dynull, Morton, Fabror',
Minere, Osbaston, Sonford, Oseleston; the moite of the castell, lordship, and manor of Dynasbran; castell,
lordship, and town of Lyone, otherwise called the Holte ; the moite of the lordship, manors, and lands of
Hewelyngton, Bromfeld, Yale, Wrexham, and Almore, with the advowsons of the moite of the churche of
Grefford, in Wales, and marche of Wales, unto the countie of Shropshire adjoining.” This grant was made
to the gallant knight, partly, no doubt, of the royal bounty, but not wholly so, as other manors and lands, as
well as money, were given by him to the crown on the grant being ratified to Sir William. After the change
of the dynasty, it became a matter of doubt, whether the grant made by King Richard was of sufficient validity
to confer an undisputed title ; and, for the purpose of removing all uncertainty on the subject, an act was
passed in the fourth year of the reign of Henry VII. (1488) confirming the royal grant to Sir William Stanley,
and to his heirs for ever.” The crime of abduction, rendered somewhat memorable in Lancashire in modern
times, prevailed as early as the reign of Henry VII., and, by an act of that monarch, the taking and carrying
away of a woman forcibly and against her will (except female wards and bond women) was made a capital
offence; parliament conceiving, that the obtaining of a woman by force, whatever assent might afterwards
follow, was but a rape drawn forth in length, because the first force drew on all the rest."
The failure of the pretensions of Lambert Simnel served only to whet the invention of his noble
patroness, the duchess of Burgundy, who, with an assiduity and malignity that belonged to her character, got
up a new tragedy,” in which Perkin Warbeck, an adroit youth, the son of a renegade Jew, was to act the
* At one time he assumed the title of Edward Plantagenet, earl * West's Furness, synopsis of families, p. 210.
of Warwick, son of the late duke of Clarence ; and at another, the * Rot. Parl. 4 Henry VII. vol. vi. p. 417.
title of Richard duke of York, second son of Edward IV. . * Lord Verulam's History, p. 65.
CHAP. XI. Çift ºigturn of 3Lancasijire. 145
principal part, as the young duke of York, a son of Edward IV. After passing through Portugal he landed
in Ireland, where he asserted his claims to the throne of England; and after visiting France he repaired to
Flanders, where the duchess declared him to be her nephew, the duke of York, and named him “The White
Rose of England.” Attracted by the news of this regal star, which had risen on the continent, Sir Robert
Clifford embarked for Flanders, to ascertain the identity of the young prince ; and, after having examined
him with great minuteness, he wrote to England to say that he knew Richard duke of York as well as he
knew his own Son, and this was unquestionably that prince. The king, though a silent, was by no means an
inactive observer of the drama which was acting, and in which he had so deep an interest. His inquiries at
home, and his emissaries abroad, convinced him that young Warbeck was an impostor ; and he determined
to seize several of the persons in this country, by whose aid the young pretender was partly upheld and sup-
ported. Amongst a number of others, both of the laity and clergy, Sir Simon Radcliffe, Lord Fitzwater, Sir
Simon Montford, Sir Thomas Thwaites, and William Dawbigney, were all brought to trial; and being found
guilty of conspiring to dethrone the king, they were sentenced to death, and beheaded. It was now ascer-
tained that Sir Robert Clifford had been induced to embark in the king's service as a state informer. On
his return to England from Flanders, he sought an audience of the king in council, and, affecting great con-
trition, he fell down at his sovereign's feet, and besought his forgiveness—of which he had already been
assured. As a return for the royal clemency, he declared his readiness to communicate all that he knew of
the parties who had been in league with Warbeck, and, amongst others, he accused Sir William Stanley, the
king's chamberlain, who was at that moment in the royal presence.
The king received this information with every semblance of amazement 1 Clifford was requested to
reconsider his charge, and warned of the consequences of repeating a false accusation: he persisted, however,
in his assertions and offered to justify his accusations, upon his soul and upon his life. The next day Sir
William was examined before the lords of the council; when he neither denied, nor attempted to extenuate,
his guilt. His reliance for pardon, it is said, rested principally upon his former Services, and upon the inter-
cession of his brother, the earl of Derby ; but both these hopes failed him. In about six weeks from the
time when the accusation was first preferred by Sir Robert Clifford, Sir William Stanley was arraigned of
high treason, and, being found guilty, was condemned to suffer the utmost penalty of the law, and soon after
beheaded (15th February 1495). The specific crime charged against Sir William Stanley has never been
satisfactorily ascertained; but it is said that, in a conversation with Sir Robert Clifford, he observed, “that
if he were sure that Perkin Warbeck was King Edward's son, he would never bear arms against him.” This
the judges construed into conditional treason; and the preference that the expression implied for the claims
to the crown of the house of York over that of the house of Lancaster stung Henry to the quick. The true
cause, however, of the extreme severity towards Sir William Stanley was probably his wealth, as he was one
of the richest subjects in England, there having been found in his castle of Holt forty thousand marks
(£26,666), exclusive of plate, jewels, and other effects; to which are to be added three thousand pounds a
year in land. This was a temptation too alluring for a monarch of the king's disposition to resist ; and the
general opinion is, that Sir William Stanley was quite as much the victim of Henry's cupidity as of his own
alleged treason. Some disquietude, it is said, lurked in the mind of Sir William, whose ambition had
prompted him to aspire to the vacant earldom of Chester, the ancient dignity of Randle, Wiscount Bayeux,
the Norman baron. This request having been refused, his allegiance is supposed to have been shaken; and
the king, having become suspicious that his love was turned into hate, was glad of an occasion to remove
from his court and person one to whom he was under infinite obligation. It is by no means clear that Sir
Robert Clifford, the state informer, was not from the beginning an emissary of the king, who maintained a
widely-extended system of espionage, and that he did not go over to Flanders with his consent, and by his
connivance. This supposition, Bacon (Lord Verulam) rejects, on the ground that Sir Robert never afterwards
received that degree of confidence with the king which he enjoyed before he left England; but this is a
slender foundation on which to hazard the conjecture, seeing that spies and their employers must, in the
nature of things, generally appear to stand in a state of alienation, if not of actual hostility. The parliament,
which assembled in the same year (1495), passed an act of attainder against Sir William Stanley, by which
all his honours, castles, manors, lordships, and other possessions, were confiscated, and forfeited to the king,
and thus swept into the general mass of forfeitures which filled the royal coffers."
In the midst of all the cares of state, Henry found sufficient leisure in the summer, after the execution
of Sir William Stanley, to visit his mother, for whom he always cherished the most affectionate regard, and
his step-father, the earl of Derby, at Knowsley, and at Lathom, in this county. So far was the earl from
expressing any hostility towards the king on account of the recent execution of his brother, that he gave all
possible effect to the royal progress, and entertained his guest with a sumptuous hospitality, such as has
seldom been witnessed in these parts. To promote the king's accommodation, the noble lord built a bridge
over the Mersey at Warrington, for the passage of himself and his suite ; which bridge has been found of so
much public utility as to afford a perpetual monument of the visit of Henry VII. to Lancashire. The countess
- 1 Rot. Parl. 11 Henry VII. vol. vi. p. 503.
TJ
146 The history of Lancashire. ÖH.A.P. XI.
of Richmond and Derby not only returned her son's affection, but she extended also her love to the queen and
her children; and the following letter (spelling modernised), written by her to Thomas Boteler, earl of
Ormond, chamberlain to the queen, while he was on a foreign embassy, is strongly characteristic of her
maternal affection:—
“My LORD CHAMBERLAIN–I thank you heartily that ye list so soon remember me with my gloves, the which were right
good, save they were too much [large] for my hand. I think the ladies in that parts [sic] too great ladies all, and according to
their great estate they have great personages. As for news here, I am sure ye shall have more surety than I can send you. Blessed
be God, the king, the queen, and all our sweet children be in good health. The queen hath been a little crazed ; but now she is
well, God be thanked. Her sickness is [? not] so good as I would, but I trust hastily it shall, with God's grace; whom I pray give
you good speed in your great matters, and bring you well and soon home.—Written at Sheen, the 28th day of April.
“To my lord the Queen's Chamberlain. M. RYCHEMOUND.”
The progress of the king on his northern tour to Lancashire commenced on the 20th of June 1495, and
terminated on the 3d of October in the same year. In the account of the “privy purse expenses of Henry
VII.” the charges incurred on this journey are enumerated with great particularity, and the successive stages
of the royal route, both going and coming, are marked with the king's accustomed precision, in the following
terms :—
“June 21. At Wicombe. 22. At Notley. 25. At Wodestok. 28. For making the King's bonefuyer, 10* July 1. At
Cleping-norton. 2. At Evesham. 3. At Tukesbury. . 4. At Wours. 5. To Brom riding to Northamptonshire and Ruteland
with five lettres, 10s. 9. To a preste that was the King's scolemaster, É2. To a tumbler opon the rope in rewarde, 3° 4". 10. At
Biewdeley. 12. At Ludlow. 15. At Shrewsbury. 16. At Cumbermere Abbey. To an archer of th’ archeduc in rewarde, £4.
17. At Holte, 18. At Chester. To Topliff the Juge of Ireland, £2. -
“23. To John Reding for vitailling, waging of four shipps at Fowey and Plymouth, with 470 [men] for six weeks to be opon
the sea, £350. 25. 9". For his costs riding theſler with the money, £6. 13° 4* To Sir Geffrey for vitailling, hiring of shippes,
hiring of horses, for his olde costs, & for his costs now, in grosse, £42. 17° 4". To the Pygard of Chester hired for a moneth, to
carry men into Ireland, £4. 13+ 2* . To a Spanyard for carrying seventy men over into Irelande at one tyme, £10. To William
Damport for four tun of bere, with the carriage and empty pipes, £4. 11+ 2* At Waile Roiall Abbey. To one that leped at
Chestre, 6s. 8d. For the wags of eleven pety captanes for fourteen days, every of them 9" by day, £5. 15* 6* [Equal to about six
shillings per day at the present time.] For their conduyt money, £1.9° 3". To the wags of 149 Fotemen for fourteen days, every
of them 6d by day, £101. 10%. 64. To their condyt money, £26.6% 8*. For 142 jackets, at 1%. 6" the pece, £13. 11%. To fifty-five
crosset men, every of them 1", £2, 15°.
July 18. At Whonwick (Winwick). 20. At Lathom. To Sir Richard Pole for 200 jacquetts, price of every pece lº' 6", £15.
[Husband of Margaret Plantagenet, daughter of George duke of Clarence, and afterwards countess of Salisbury.] For the wages of
i00 horsemen for fourteen days, every of them 9" by day £52, 10°. For their conduyt for 3 days, every of them 9" by day, £11. 5*
For the wages of 100 fotemen for fourteen days, every of them 6* by day, £35. [To swell the King's retinue.] For their conduyt
for four days, every of them 6" by day, £10. For shipping, Vitailling, and setting over the see the foresaid 200 men with an 100
horses, £13. 6s. 8d. To the shirif awayting upon Sº Sampson for the Safe conduyt of the forsaid souldeours, £2.
Aug. 2. To Picard, a herrald of Fraunee, in rewarde, £6. 13° 4". To the women that songe before the Kinge and the Quene
in reward, 6%. 8", [From which it appears that the king was accompanied in this progress by the queen.] 3. At Knowsley.
4. At Warington. 5. At Manchestre. , 6. At Maxfeld. 8. At Newcastell, 10. At Strafford. 11. At Lychefeld. 12. At
Burton. 13. At Derby. 28. At Lughburgh. 29. At Leye.
During the king's residence at Lathom, Perkin Warbeck, having collected a considerable armament,
attempted a landing on the coast of Kent ; but this enterprise, like all the others in which he embarked,
utterly failed. He next sailed for Scotland, where he was received with great favour by the Scotch king.
Here he told his pathetic story with much effect, representing that “one Henry Tudor, the son of Edmund
Tudor, had usurped that throne of which he had been deprived by his uncle, Richard of Gloucester. Henry,
not content with displacing him from the throne, had laboured to compass his death and ruin; the justice
of his cause, however, was so manifest to his Most Christian Majesty Charles, king of France, and to the lady
duchess of Burgundy, his dear aunt, that they not only acknowledged his title to the English crown, but
were ready to assist him in obtaining it.” The Scotch king so far supported the claims of his interesting young
guest, that he allowed him to take to wife Lady Katherine Gordon, daughter of the earl of Huntly, a lady
of great beauty and of high accomplishments. The next step was to penetrate into England by the northern
borders, and to erect his standard in Northumberland. Here Perkin issued a “royal proclamation,”
inviting all loyal subjects to repair to his standard, and holding out the most alluring promises to those who
embraced his cause. This expedition ended in a precipitate retreat, but not till the Scotch had plundered
and laid waste the county of Northumberland. His next and final attempt was upon the coast of Cornwall,
where a recent insurrection, which terminated in the defeat of the rebels upon Blackheath, seemed to have
prepared the people for his reception. The first appearance of Perkin was at Bodmin, where he was joined
by about three thousand of the inhabitants of that town and the neighbouring district. Thus encouraged,
he marched to the city of Exeter, which he summoned to surrender in the name of “Richard IV., king of
England.” The king lost not a moment in despatching the lord chamberlain, Lord Brook, and Sir Rice ap
Thomas, with a light force, to Exeter, to relieve the city, charging them to announce that he was on his
march in person, at the head of the royal army. All these preparations were rendered unnecessary by the
gentry of the county having collected a force sufficient to alarm the invaders, who suddenly raised the siege
of Exeter, and marched to Taunton. From this place Perkin Warbeck fled in the night, attended by about
sixty horsemen, to Bewley, in the New Forest, where he shut himself up for safety in the sanctuary of that
* Sir Robert Cotton’s MSS. -
CHAP. XI.
Qſìje #istorg of £antagjire. 147
place; alleging that he foresaw the carnage that would ensue, and he could not endure to see the blood of
his subjects spilt Lady Katherine Gordon, who had followed the fortunes of her husband, whom she
tenderly loved, was captured at St. Michael's, in Cornwall, by the king's troops, and, being taken to court,
she was treated by the queen with great kindness, and even affection. Her beauty was the theme of general
admiration, and, being extremely fair, the title given to her husband by the duchess of Burgundy was
transferred to his lady, who was thenceforth called “The White Rose.” The pretender, Perkin, on a promise
of pardon from the king, Surrendered himself into his hands. On being brought to London, he confessed the
imposture, and became an object of Scorn rather than of loyal regard. Having formed a conspiracy, as was
alleged, with Edward Plantagenet, earl of Warwick, the eldest son of the late duke of Clarence, who had
been kept a prisoner in the Tower from his infancy, he was brought to trial for high treason, found guilty,
and afterwards executed at Tyburn. The earl of Warwick, his accomplice, was also convicted, and beheaded
on Tower Hill, in whom fell the last of the male line of the Plantagenets."
- The king, no longer exposed to the danger of losing his throne, Surrendered himself to that passion,
which, when inordinately cherished, strengthens with age, and outlives all other vices.” The sums which
flowed into the royal coffers from the arbitrary exactions of Empson and Dudley were immense; and the
strictness with which the account of the king's privy purse was kept is at once amusing and instructive.
In these accounts, from the year 1491 to 1505, amongst an immense number of other items of expenditure,
the following appear:—
Money given to Sir Wm. Stanley at his execution £10 0 ()
Paid for Sir William Stanley's buryall at Syon . * tº e g 15 19 0
Paid to Simon Digby in full payment for the buriall of Sir Wm. Stanley . e g & tº 2 0 0
Paid to Robert Suthewell for horses, Sadells, and other necessarys bought for the conveyance of my Lady
Kateryn Hunt-leye (The White Rose) . * º & e º g g º e & 7 13 4
Paid to my Lord Strange in reward . tº & 40 0 0
Paid to Sir Edward Stanley in reward 26 13 4
Paid for making of the bonefuyer g g g e º s e 2 0 0
Paid to Sir Gilbert Talbot going on an embassade to Rome, for his costs 5 0 0
Towards the close of his reign, the king displayed great anxiety to bring a “celestial honour,” as it was
called, into the house of Lancaster. To accomplish this object, he sent an embassy to Rome, to importune
the new pope Julius II. to canonise Henry VI. ; but upon what ground, except that he had, when Henry
VII. was a boy, predicted that he should one day fill the throne of England, it is difficult to conjecture. His
Holiness referred the matter to certain cardinals, to take the verification of the deceased monarch's holy acts
and miracles; but these were not sufficiently obvious to entitle him to the dignity of the calendar, and the
negotiation was abandoned in despair. A MS. in the Harleian Collection,” found amongst the papers of Fox
the Martyrologist, entitled “De Miraculis Beatissimi Militis Xpi Henrici Vj,” consisting of about 150 folio
closely-written pages, contains an account of a vast number of reputed miracles performed by this monarch, of
which the following may be taken as specimens.
“How Richard Whytby Priest of Mount St. Michaels was long ill of a Fever, & at last miraculously cured by journeying to the Tomb
of Henry VI.” [Folio 113 b.] -
“How John called Robynson, who had been blind ten years, recovered his sight by visiting Henry's Tomb.” [Folio 97 b.]
“How Henry Lancaster, afflicted with Fever, was miraculously cured in three days by the appearance of that blessed Prince Henry
VI. in the sky.” [Folio 98.]
“How a girl called Joan Knyght, who was nearly killed with a bone sticking in her throat, and considered dead, on the bystanders
invoking Henry VI., vomited the bone & was restored to health.” [Folio 119 b.]
One of the last acts of the last parliament of Henry VII. was to answer a demand for two “reasonable
aids;” the One for making a knight of his eldest son Arthur, now deceased, and the other for the marriage of
his eldest daughter (from which marriage sprang the Stuart dynasty in England) to the king of Scotland, and
also for the “great and inestimable charges” which he had incurred for the defence of the realm. Parliament
having duly considered these demands, and being fully aware of the difficulty and discontent which would
arise from the aids being levied according to the ancient tenures of the kingdom, compounded for them by
presenting the king with forty thousand pounds, towards which sum the contribution for Lancashire, and the
commissioners employed in its collection, were as follow —Thomas Boteler, Knyght ; John Bothe, Knyght ;
* Contemporary historians describe this young prince in their
strong, but homely terms, as reduced to the most abject state of
imbecility by his long confinement, and by his almost entire
exclusion from human intercourse : “he was" says Holinshed,
“a very innocent.” Hall says, “being kept for fifteen years
without company of men, or sight of beasts, he could not discern a
goose from a capon.”
* Among other modes of raising money, the king had frequently
recourse to Sibsidies; a levy of this kind was made in 1496; when
the persons appointed to be commissioners for Lancashire, along
with the justices of the peace, were Edmundus Trafford Mil',
Joties Talbot Mil’, Thomas Lawrence Arm,’ and Thomas Hesketh
Arm'.
It is due to the king, however, to say, that he did from time to time
award allowances from the revenues of the duchy of Lancaster for
the relief of the public burdens, as appears by the following items
in the acts of the first and eleventh years of his reign :-
First, of the General Receivour of the Duchie • T A • Kl
of Lancasire (1485) . . . . . . . £2303: 14: 5}
|First, of the Generall Receyvour of the Duchie } ‘. . A , 61
of Lancasire (1495) . . . . . . . £2303: 14:6;
* Cod. 423.
148 (ſiſt #igtúrg of 3Lancashire. CHAP. XI.
Pears Lee, Knyght; Richard Bold, Knyght ; John Sowthworth, Knyght ; Thomas Laurence, Knyght;
William Thornborough, Esquyer; and Cutberd Clyfton, Esquyer, £318: 2: 3}.
The death of the king put the usual termination to the accumulation of wealth. “He left,” says Lord
Verulam, “mostly in secret places, Vnder his owne Key and keeping at Richmond, treasure of store, that
amounted (as by Tradition it is reported to have done) vnto the Summe of neare Eighteene hundred thousand
pounds Sterling; a huge Masse of Money, even for these times.” -
From the time of Henry VII, the distinction of the Roses, as a badge of party, fell entirely into disuse.
The origin of this distinction may be traced back to the time of John of Gaunt, whose device was a red rose,
and Edmund of Langley, whose device was a white rose. “These two factions,” says Selden, “afterwards, as
for cognisance of their descent and inclinations, were by the same flowers distinguished,” till the white rose
and the red were united, on the marriage of Henry VII. with the Princess Elizabeth. -
CHAP. XII. (The #istorm of £ancashire. . - 149
CHAPTER XII.
The Sixteenth Century—Henry VIII. ascends the Throne—Invasion of England by the Scots—Battle of Flodden Field
—The King's Letter of Thanks to Sir Edward Stanley, etc.—Lords-Lieutenant first appointed—The Reformation
—Religious Persecution—Visitation of the Monasteries—Dissolution of the Lesser Monasteries—Insurrections
produced by the Dissolution of the Monasteries—The Pilgrimage of Grace: Dispersion of the Rebel Army;
They re-assemble, etc.; Finally dispersed—Renewed Rebellion in the North—Execution of the Abbot of
Whalley and Others—Dissolution of the Larger Monasteries—First Publication of the Bible in English—Excom-
munication of the King—List of Lancashire Monasteries—Their Revenues administered by the Duchy–
Aggregate Value of the Dissolved Monasteries—Bishopric of Chester, etc., erected—List of Chantries in Lanca-
shire—Decayed Towns in Lancashire—Privilege of Sanctuary—The King's Death, A. D. 1509 to 1547.
$2:4}^{HE sixteenth century, during almost the whole of which period the throne of England was
tº occupied by Henry VIII. and his children, affords abundant materials for both the general
** and the local history of the county of Lancaster. The reformation of the established church,
by which so many of the religious institutions of the country were dissolved, and the erection
of a new bishopric, in which this county was included, could not fail materially to affect our
&^ t ecclesiastical institutions; while the persecutions on account of the ever-varying religion of the
state created a degree of public excitement that has seldom had a parallel in British history. In the north
the impression produced by these memorable changes was deeper than in the south ; and in Lancashire, where
the recusants were more numerous than in any other county, both the clergy and the laity awaited the result
of the contest of the rival churches of England and Rome with an anxiety fully commensurate with the
important interests it involved. Nor were the military and naval events of this period less interesting. The
battle of Flodden Field, the wars with France, the almost incessant contests with Ireland, and the menaced
invasion of this country by Spain, which terminated in the destruction of the “invincible armada,” filled the
whole nation with military ardour; and the ample official correspondence between the lieutenancy in the
county of Lancaster and the successive ministers of state," shows that this county took its full share in the great
events by which the destiny of the nation was fixed and its independence for ever secured.
No prince ever ascended the throne of England under circumstances more auspicious than those which
attended the elevation of Henry VIII. At peace with foreign nations, in the enjoyment of an undisputed
title to the throne, with a treasury full almost to repletion, and in possession of the affections of his people, he
had nothing to wish for, and nothing to dread, except the impetuosity of his own passions. His venerable
grandmother, the countess of Richmond and Derby, had survived her son Henry VII., and offered her valuable
council and assistance in the formation of the young king's cabinet, at the head of which stood the archbishop
of Canterbury. The countess lived to see the hope of her old age married to Catherine of Arragon, the
“virgin widow” of his deceased brother Arthur, and died soon after the consummation of that unhappy
TIIllOIl.
A few years served to engage the king in a war with France, and to awaken the dormant feelings of
hostility entertained towards England by the Scottish nation. To prosecute his operations with success,
James IV., king of Scotland, passed the English frontier at the head of fifty thousand men, and menaced the
adjoining shores with his invading army. To repel this formidable invasion, large levies, principally of the
tenantry of the great landed proprietors, were raised in the counties of Lancaster, Chester, York, and West-
morland, which were placed, by the direction of the queen regent, under the command of Thomas Howard,
earl of Surrey, and which, with the addition of five thousand regular troops, swelled the amount of the English
army to twenty-six thousand men. The earl having marched from Pontefract by the route of Bolton Castle,
the two armies met on the field of Flodden, near the foot of the Cheviot Hills, on the margin of the vale of
Tweed. The earl of Surrey, having divided his forces into two parts, confided the Vanguard to the command
of his son, Lord Howard, the lord admiral; and the rear he headed himself. Sir Edmund Howard commanded
the right wing, and Sir Edward Stanley the left wing of the English army. On leading his followers to the
* See Mr. Harland’s Lancashire Lieutenancy under the Tudors, the army, who had accompanied their friends, to partake of their
etc. (vols. 49 and 50 of the Chetham Society's series). expected plunder.
- - - - * The king was at that time personally engaged in the wars in
* The official account, written by the lord admiral, says eighty France, while Catherine, emulating the example of Queen Philippa
thousand; but numbers of these were, no doubt, the hangers-on of (see chap. ix. p. 107), was left to repel the Scotch invaders.


150 Qſìje 3%istory of 3 antagjire. CHAP, XII.
field, the earl exclaimed, “Now, good fellows, do like Englishmen this day !” The right wing of the van-
guard, under Sir Edmund Howard, overwhelmed by a large body of Scottish spearmen, commanded by Lord
Home, narrowly escaped annihilation by the timely arrival of the Bastard Heron, with a numerous body of
outlaws, who maintained a dubious contest, till the Lord Dacre, with a reserve of fifteen thousand horse,
charged the spearmen, and put them to flight. The English vanguard, under the lord admiral, fought like
heroes, and, after slaying the earls of Errol and Crawford, dispersed their forces in every direction. The
commanders of the conflicting armies, the earl of Surrey and the Scottish king, with the chosen warriors of
their respective armies, were opposed to each other. James fought on foot, surrounded by thousands of his
men, cased in armour, which resisted the arrows of the English archers. Marching with a steady step towards
the royal standard of England, he conceived this trophy of victory to be almost within his grasp, and was
congratulating himself on the glories that awaited him, when Sir Edward Stanley, leading the left wing of the
English army, composed principally of the Lancashire, Cheshire, and Yorkshire levies, defeated the earls of
Argyle and Lennox, and turned the fortune of the day. The Scottish ranks, harassed by the murderous
discharges of the archers, and the tremendous blows of the bill-men, fell into disorder; when Stanley, seizing
the moment of panic, chased them over the hill, and, wheeling to the right, led his followers against the rear
of the main Scotch army under King James, and thus placed him between two fires. In vain did the gallant
monarch endeavour to penetrate the hostile ranks by which he was environed; the moment of his destiny was
at hand, and he fell a lifeless corpse upon the field, within a spear's-length of the feet of the earl of Surrey.
The battle, which began about five o'clock in the afternoon of the 9th September 1513, terminated at night-fall,
and the pursuit was continued for only four miles. On the part of the Scotch, ten thousand warriors were
slain; amongst whom were not only the king, but his natural son the archbishop of St. Andrews, with two
other bishops, two abbots, twelve earls, thirteen barons, five eldest sons of barons, and fifty other men of
distinction." Six thousand horses were taken, with the whole park of the Scotch artillery, and about eight
thousand prisoners. The gallantry of the Lancashire men at the memorable battle of Flodden Field has at all
times been a subject of exultation on the part of the inhabitants of this county. That their favourite leader,
Sir Edward Stanley, should have, by his skill and courage, contributed so essentially to turn the fate of the
day, and that those other gallant knights, Sir William Molineux of Sefton, Sir William Norris of Speke, and
Sir Richard Ashton of Middleton, should have co-operated so efficiently with their leader, will long be men-
tioned with praise by those who cherish the memory of gallant deeds at arms, and combine with them the
localities of the respective contingents. The records of the day are full of the achievements of the heroes
of Flodden Field, which are celebrated in prose and in rhyme; and an ancient MS. in the Harleian collection
in the British Museum,” records these valiant deeds in a strain of high eulogium. The poem is in nine fits, or
cantos, occupying sixty-six closely-written quarto pages, and opens with the following argument:—
“Heare is the Famous historie or Songe called Floodan Field, and in it shal be declare how whyle King Henrie the Eight was
in France, the King of Scoots called James, the Fowerth of that name, Invaided the Realme of England, And how he was
Incountred wth all aft a place called Branton, on Floodan Hill, By the Earle of Surry Live Tennant Generall for the Kinge, with his
sonne Lord Thomas Haworth, the great Admirall of England with the Helpe of dyvers Lords & Knights in the North Countrie, As
the Lord Dakers of the North, the Lord Scrope of Bolton, wth the most Corragious Knight Sr Edward Standley, whoe for his prowis
and valliantnes shewed att the said Battell, was made Lord Mount Eagle as the Sequell declareth.”
The poet narrates the progress of the battle, and ends with celebrating the victory. After the battle, the
victorious army penetrated into Scotland; and Speke Hall, the seat of Sir William Norris, has ever since been
enriched with trophies of this memorable campaign, brought from the palace of the Scottish king. The
English monarch, who was then in France,” accompanied by Henry, earl of Derby, and engaged in the great
expedition in which Tournay was won, in the ardour of his gratitude, on his return to England in November,
addressed a congratulatory letter to Sir Edward Stanley. Similar letters, mutatis mutandis, were sent to Sir
William Molineux, Sir William Norris, and Sir Richard Ashton, and, as a still further mark of his Majesty's
gratitude, Sir Edward Stanley, who...was the fifth son of Thomas, earl of Derby, was created Lord Monteagle,
in allusion to the family crest. The earl of Surrey was restored to the family title of duke of Norfolk, while
his son, Lord Howard, was honoured with the title of the earl of Surrey. Wolsey, then the king's favourite
minister, was created bishop of Lincoln; and Lord Herbert obtained a step in the peerage as earl of Worcester.
About this period, the ancient commission of array, for levying and organising troops in the different
counties of the kingdom, to guard against foreign invasion and domestic tumult, began to be Superseded by a
new local authority, called the lieutenancy, at the head of which, in this county, was placed the duke of
Norfolk, who was succeeded in the office by the earl of Shrewsbury, and subsequently by Edward, earl of
Derby; and although not a hereditary honour, the office of lord-lieutenant of the county palatine of
Lancaster has been filled almost ever since its institution by the head of the Stanley family.
The baneful connection formed by Scotland and France served again to embroil our northern neighbours
Lord Thomas Howard's official account. * Cod. 3526. king) should win all the crown of France.”—1 Ellis's Original
* The queen, in her letter to the king, announcing the victory of Letters, p. 88.
Flodden Field, says—“The victory has more honour than if he (the 4 15 Rymer, 75.
CHAP. XII. The #ígtorg ºf £antagüíre. 151
in a fresh war with England, and preparations were made for invading the northern counties. To repel this
invasion, a royal mandate was issued to the high sheriff of the county of Lancaster, commanding him to make
proclamation in these words:—
“Forasmuche as the King's Highnes has learned of an intention to invade England at or before the beginning of September,
formed by the Scots at the instigation of the French king; his grace, therefore, by advice of his counsel, charges all and singular
his subjects, of whatsoever rank, &c. between the ages of 60 and 16, inhabitants within the county of Lancaster, that from henceforth
they, uppon oon Houres Warnyng, be in arredynes defensiblie arrayed with Harnes and Wepyns apte & mete for the Warres, to
attend the Earl of Shrewsbury, his Lieutent general of the North against Scotland,” &c."
The Scotch, sensible at length of the injustice of being so frequently called upon to sacrifice their own
peace and prosperity to foreign interests, expressed their reluctance to advance into England; and Albany,
the French general, under whose command the Scottish chiefs were to fight, observing this disinclination,
concluded a truce with Lord Dacres, warden of the English marches, which did not, however, prevent Scotland
from being entered by the earl of Surrey, at the head of his army, who ravished Merse and Teviotdale, and
burnt the town of Jedburgh. From these terrible inflictions the Scotch were glad to escape by an alliance
with England instead of France, not without a remote expectation of a contract of marriage between Lady
Mary, heir-presumptive to the throne of England, and the young Scotch monarch, at that time in his
nonage.
The seeds of the Reformation, which had been sown in the time of John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster,
cherished by the Lollards in succeeding ages, and occasionally moistened by their blood, attained to maturity
in the time of Henry VIII. Martin Luther, a monk of the order of St. Augustine, and a professor in the
university of Wittemberg, had raised the standard of reformation in Saxony, by preaching and writing against
the indulgences granted, with so lavish a hand, by the church of Rome; and his works had attracted
sufficient notice to induce the king of England to enter the polemical lists against him. Henry sent his
answer in reply to Luther to Leo X., and his Holiness was so much gratified by its perusal, either from the
strength of the argument or the dignity of the advocate, that he rewarded the royal controversialist with the
appellation of “Defender of the Faith.” The fickleness of the king's affections induced him, soon afterwards,
to put the friendship of the head of the church to a severe test. Doubts had been suggested by the
scrupulous as to the legality of the king's marriage with, Catherine of Arragon, the widow of his brother; and
it was held by them that the degree of consanguinity was such as to vitiate the marriage. These scruples, as
Henry alleged, began to disturb his own mind; and, to relieve himself from so great a burden, he applied to
Rome for a divorce, which Clement VII., who now filled St. Peter's chair, was inclined to grant, had not the
fear of offending the emperor Charles W., the nephew of Catherine, and who wished to espouse Mary, the
queen's daughter, restrained his inclinations. The impetuosity of Henry's temper could ill brook the delay
of episcopal hesitation, and the beauty of Anne Boleyn, a maid of honour to the queen, to whom he had made
an offer of his hand, induced him to obtain, from his own complying parliament, a dissolution of the marriage
with Catherine. His clergy, not less obedient to the royal wish than the laity, determined, in convocation,
that an appeal to Rome was unnecessary. The parliament, when it next assembled, constituted the “De-
fender of the Faith ” the supreme head of the church, and thus dissolved the connection between the church
of England and the church of Rome. A number of the clergy, and many of the laity, amongst whom there
was probably a majority in the county of Lancaster, adhered to the faith of their fathers; but the great body
of the nation were disposed to go much further than the king: they acted upon principle ; he was influenced
by passion, and remained as much a friend to indulgences, after he had espoused the beautiful maid of honour,
as he was when he first married her mistress. Neither the Catholics nor the Protestants satisfied him ; in
the plenitude of his power, and to gratify his sanguimary temper, he inflicted the punishment of death upon
persons of both persuasions, and he promoted the Reformation only so far as it could be made subservient to
the gratification of his voluptuousness, and as it administered to the demands of his prodigality. -
Such is the perverting influence of religious persecution, that Sir Thomas More, the mild, equitable, and
enlightened chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster, on his elevation to the chancellorship of England (in 1534),
inflicted the torture upon James Bainham, a member of the Inner Temple, and finally consigned him to the
flames in Smithfield for no other offence, but because he followed the example of the court by favouring the
doctrines of the Reformation. More himself having, a few years after, refused to acknowledge the king's
supremacy—saying that it was a two-edged sword: if he was in favour of that doctrine, it would confound
his soul; and if he was against it, it would destroy his body—was, for this offence, brought to trial on a
charge of high treason, and, being found guilty, was beheaded on Tower Hill (July 6, 1535).
In the twenty-sixth year of the king's reign (1534), a royal commission was issued, to ascertain the value
1 Pat. 14, Hen. VIII. p. 2. m. 8. d. defend one another, and let the faith alone to defend itself.” The
* King Henry's jester, finding his royal master transported with copy of Henry's reply to Luther, sent by the king himself to the
unusual joy, asked him the cause of his hilarity; to which the king pope, with the royal autograph in the title-page, is preserved in
replied that the pope had honoured him with a style more exalted the Library of the Vatican, and exhibited amongst its literary
than that of any of his ancestors—the title of “Defender of the curiosities.
Faith :” to which the fool replied, “O good Harry, let thou and I 3 State Trials, i. 59.
152
Çiſt ºigtúry of £antagjirt. CHAP. XII.
of all the ecclesiastical property, and the amount of all the benefices in the kingdom. The book containing
the latter of these returns is called Liber Regis, and is a beautiful manuscript, transcribed, it is said, by a monk
of Westminster, for the king's library. The office for the receipt of tenths and first-fruits was instituted upon
the visitation of these commissioners, whereby the Decima Decimarum were appointed to be paid to the king
of England, instead of being paid, as hitherto, to the pope. The report of the commissioners forms a kind of
ecclesiastical Doomsday Book.' -
The great visitation of monasteries was commenced in the autumn of 1535, when Cromwell, chancellor of
the exchequer and first secretary to the king, filled the office of vicegerent and vicar-general. The visitation
of the Lancashire monasteries was made by Dr. Thomas Legh and Dr. Richard Layton, and their original
reports are in the Record Office of the Court of Receipt at Westminster, under the custody of the lord
treasurer. The resolution to dissolve the monasteries had already been taken. The spirit in which this
visitation was made clearly indicated that the reports were meant to form the groundwork for the dissolution
of those institutions, and the consequent appropriation of their lands and revenues to the use of the crown.
It cannot be denied that the monastic institutions were subject to great abuse; and that, under the specious
appearance of devotion to God, some of the first duties to man were neglected or perverted; but it must
also be admitted, that the collecting of ea-parte evidence by stipendiary emissaries, and the making of that
evidence a ground for plundering the property of the church, was a proceeding full of injustice, and an example
that no future age can imitate with impunity. The questions proposed by the royal commissioners on their
Lancashire visitation were reduced to the following heads:—1. As to the incontinence of the heads of each
monastery; 2. The name of the founder ; 3. The estate of the convents; 4. The Superstitions practised in
them; 5. The debts they had incurred; and 6. The names of the votaries who wished to be discharged from
their vows.”
How far the deplorable picture of monastic life exhibited in this report is faithful, we have not the means
of discovering.” So far as the great monasteries are concerned, it is at variance with the declaration of an act
of parliament passed in the following year, wherein it is said, “that in divers and great Solemn monasteries of
this realm religion is right well kept and observed.” The great monastery of Furness does not appear to have
been entitled to this flattering character, if the report of the visitors is to be credited ; and of Whalley the
particulars are so few as to convey no information on this head. The returns of the commissioners served as
an apology for dissolving the lesser monasteries, to which the king and his minister, the vicar-general, had a
strong predisposition. In the following year (1535) a bill was passed through parliament, with very little
deliberation, for dissolving all monastic establishments in England whose clear yearly income did not exceed
£200 ; in the preamble to which bill it is said, that
“Forasmuch as manifest sin, Vitious, carnal, and abominable living, is daily used and committed commonly in such little and
Small abbeys, priories, and other religious houses of monks, canons, and nuns, where the congregation of Such religious persons is
under the number of twelve,” etc. “ whereupon the lords and commons, by a great deliberation, finally be resolved, that it is and
shall be more to the pleasure of Almighty God, and for the honour of this his realm, that the possessions of all such religious
houses, not being spent, spoiled, and wasted for increase of maintenance of sin, shall be used and converted to better uses, and the
unthrifty religious persons so spending the same be compelled to reform their lives ; be it therefore enacted, that his majesty shall
have to himself and to his heirs for ever, all and singular monasteries, the yearly value of which do not amount to £200.”
By this act, about three hundred and eighty communities were dissolved, and an addition of thirty-two
thousand a-year (of the value in our money of upwards of £160,000) was made to the royal revenue, exclusive
of £100,000 in money, plate, and jewels. According to Fuller, “ten thousand persons were, by this dissolution,
sent to seek their fortunes in the wide world: some had twenty shillings given them at their ejection, and a
new gown, which needed to be of strong cloth, to last till they got another. Most were exposed to want ;
and many a young nun proved an old beggar.”
* The state of the inferior clergy in the county of Lancaster, as
well as in the other parts of the province of York, was at this time
most deplorable, whether considered as to their acquirements or
their stipends.
to Cromwell, “their benefices were so exile, of £4: 5: 6 per
annum, that no learned man would take them. Therefore they
were fain to take such as were presented, so that they were of
honest conversation, and could competently understand what they
read, and minister sacraments. In all his diocese, he did not know
twelve that could preach.” The Irish clergy at the same time were
in a still lower condition; their new archbishop wrote of them to
the lord privy seal—“As for their secular orders, they be in a
Imanner as ignorant as the people, being not able to say a mass, or
to pronounce the words; they not knowing what they themselves
say in the Roman tongue.” So in 1530, “A bird may be taught to
Speak with as much sense as several of them do in this country.”
* The report is in Latin, and its statements as to incontinence,
etc., Would not bear translation. It is therefore omitted. The
According to Archbishop Lee, in a letter addressed
following statements in the report are, however, worth preserving :—
Furmess, yearly rent or income, £900—Cartmell, yearly rent, #100 ;
here they have a portion of the Holy Cross—Comished, yearly rent,
£113; here they have the girdle of the Virgin Mary (as it is thought),
to bless the pregnant—CokerSand, yearly rent, É200–Whalley,
£541—JAytham, #55—Hornby, £16—Penwortham, #27–Burs-
cough, £90— Upholland, £65—Kersal Cell, £9; the house owes
20 marks (£13: 6:8)—Stamlaw, £10—College of Manchester, £200.
* It is alleged by the Roman Catholics that young men were
employed to corrupt and to defame the nuns. Fuller mentions a
story, upon the authority of Sir William Stanley, from which it
appears that two young gentlemen, under the pretence of the royal
permission to visit a convent, remained there three days and three
nights, where they were received with that hospitality and decorum
which ought to have inspired in them nothing but gratitude ; but
that, in return for these favours, they falsely accused the nuns of
licentiousness; and in that way a pretence was obtained for dis-
Solving the convents.—Fuller's History of Abbeys, p. 315.
CHAP. XII.
153
(Iije 3%istory of £ancashire.
A CERTIFICATE or THE ANNUAL VALUE AND OTHER PARTICULARS OF A NUMBER OF THE
RELIGIOUS Hous ES IN LANCASHIRE.1

County of LANCASTER.—The Breviate of the brief Certificate, upon the new Survey of the Religious Houses within the
County Palatine of Lancaster, given to the King's Highness by Act of Parliament, and within the case of dissolution.
ball Lead mal-Wºº, low owing w Reidon, tººl ºf
Peligious Houses. First Walue. Second Value. Goods.’ *|worth to be the H ouse. y º º S redemption to
Sold. livings. be paid at days.
Cokersand . £157 14 0} |#224 7 7% |#343 18 5 40s. £108 9 8 22 17 £3. 3 0
Cartmell 9] 6 3 212 12 10% 274 13 9}, 167. 59 12 8 I0 38 3 4 0
Conishead . 97 0 2 161 5 9 333 6 33 127. 87 17 3} 8 41 3 4 0
Burscough . 80 7 6 122 5 7 418 10 10 257. 86 3 8 5 42 3 4 0
Holland. 53 3 4. 78 12 9 I 32 2 8 40l. 18 18 10 5 26 200 4 0
The following progress of a suffragan, entitled “Progressus Dni Suffraganij,” indicates the order in which
the visitation of the Lancashire monasteries, from the centre to the northern part of the county, was made.
From the obscurity of the writing, and the manner in which the MS. is bound up with other papers in the
Codex, the transcript has been made with considerable difficulty, and probably with some inaccuracy on that
account. The report (of which we have modernised the spelling, etc.) is without date, but it appears to have
been made about the year 1538, to Cromwell, the vicar-general, by one of the visitors.”
IN COUNTY [of] LANCASTER.
Whalley.—Item to Whalley in Lancashire, of the Cistercians, out of one diocese, under the Bishop of Chester, the which con-
vent was first founded in the county of Chester, at a place called Stanlaw, by Sir John Lascy, knight, and that was A.D. 1172. But
after Lord Henry Lascy, the third and last Earl of Lincoln of the name, removed them.* with the bodies of his ancestors John and
Roger Lascy, knights, unto Whalley, that was A.D. 1296. Umylysa, prior.
Cokersand.—Item to Kokersand, canons of the Premonstratensians, of the foundation of a certain hermit, named Hugh Garthe,
in King John's time, 24 miles from the other.
Lancaster.—Item to Lancaster, to the friars preachers, of the foundation of Sir Hugh Harrington, knight, 5 miles from the other.
Cartmel.—ſtem to Cartmel, canons of St. Austin Order, of the first foundation of Lord William Marchall, the Earl of Pembroke,
A.D. 1202, before his death 17 years, 3d King John, 10 miles off the other.
Comishead.—Item to Conishead, canons of St. Austin, of the first foundation of Gamel Pennyngton, knight, which founded
there a place of three or four canons, which was in strife for a season, by reason that they builded upon the ground of Lord William
Lancaster, Baron of Kirby-Kendal and Overstone ; but this first foundation was A.D. 1067, from the other 5 miles.
Furness.—Item to Furness, of the Cistercians, of the foundation of Lord Stephen, then the Earl of Boulogne, before he was
king of England nine years, and 26th year of the reign of King Henry I. (1125-6), as appeareth by the following:—[This is an
imperfect and unintelligible piece of Latin].
Coupland.—Item to Cowdre, of the Cistercians, of the first foundation of Lord Reginald Meschines, then lord of Coupland, that
was A.D. 1134 in Henry I.'s time. 19 miles from the foresaid place.
St. Bees.—Item to St. Bees, monks of the order of St. Benet, of the foundation of the foresaid Lord Meschines, 5 miles from
the other (fol. 106).”
[Notes at the end.]
“In all these we have been in, beside divers others more, both in Durham bishopric and also Carlisle; with many good towns
g † , --, -ºº: g 2 - gºv - y g
and villages, as well in my lord's grace's liberty as in others. And thus Jesus preserve your Mastership.
[In another hand.]
1592.” (Fol. 108.)
The religious feelings, as well as the temporal interests, of a large body of men were deeply involved in
the suppression of the lesser monasteries, which measure was considered, with much justice, as the precursor of
a still more sweeping appropriation of church property. The families of distinction, whose ancestors had
founded monasteries, or whose sons were provided for by spiritual offices, complained of being deprived of their
patronage and emoluments; and the poor, for whom there was then no parochial provision in infancy or in
old age, and whose wants had been supplied at the doors of the convents, were equally loud in their complaints;
while persons under the influence of higher motives felt shocked and outraged by the spoliation and overthrow
of the altars of their fathers. The discontents of the people first broke out in acts of open rebellion in
Lincolnshire, where Dr. Mackrel, friar of Barlings, assuming the character of a mechanic, collected an army of
twenty thousand men, of which he took the lead, under the assumed name of “The Captain Cobbler.” A
proclamation of pardon from the king was found of sufficient force to disperse this irregular army; while the
doctor himself, and a number of its other leaders, among whom was Lord Hussey, were consigned to public
execution.
A more formidable insurrection immediately afterwards sprang up in the northern counties, under the
designation of the “Pilgrimage of Grace,” and Robert Aske, a gentleman of family, residing upon his patrimonial
estate at Aughton, in the East Riding of the county of York, was placed at its head. The insurrectionary
spirit spread far and wide, from the Tweed on the north to the Humber and the Ribble on the east and the
west. The insurgents rendezvoused in Yorkshire; and, to excite the enthusiasm of their followers, and to
induce the people to join their ranks, a body of priests marched at their head with the banner of the cross, on
“These notes belong unto me.—THO. LOVELL.
8 That is from Stanlaw.
* Coupland, or Copeland, and St. Bees are both in Cumberland.
1 Harl. MSS. in Brit. Mus. cod. 604, fol. 91.
2 Harl. MSS. codex 604.
X.
154 (ſiſt £igturn of £ancašijire. CHAP. XII.
which was depicted the figure of the Saviour, with the chalice and the host. Each of the soldiers wore on his
sleeve, as the emblem of his holy cause, a representation of the five wounds of Christ, with the name “Jesus”
marked in the centre. An oath or covenant was enjoined upon the pilgrims, by which they declared, “that
they entered into this pilgrimage for the love of God, the preservation of the king's person and issue, the
purifying the nobility, and driving away all base-born and ill councillors; and for no particular profit of their
own, nor to do displeasure to any, nor to kill any for envy; but to take before them the cross of Christ, his
faith, the restitution of the churches, and the suppression of hereticks and their opinions.”
Having carried the town of Hull and the city of York, their next operation was directed against the
castle of Pontefract, which was in possession of Lee, the archbishop of York, and Lord Darcy, whose slumbering
loyalty the king attempted to awaken by a letter written from Northampton, in which he desires Lord Darcy
to proclaim as false, certain traitorous, slanderous, and untrue reports. The reports alluded to, and so strongly
denounced by the king, were contained in a mandate issued by one of the rebel chiefs, assuming the name of
“the Earl of Poverty,” which alleged that the king and his heretical ministers had determined, first, that no
infant should be baptized without a tribute to be paid to the king; second, that no man, with an income of
less than £20 a-year should either eat bread made of wheat, or capons, or chickens, or goose, or pig, without
paying a tribute; and, third, that for every plough-land, the king would have a tribute. The earl of Shrews-
bury, then residing at Sheffield Castle, animated by a zeal which outstripped the king's commands, raised a
force to resist the progress of the rebellion; and the earl of Derby, and other noblemen, followed his example.
On arriving before Pontefract, the rebels summoned the castle; with this summons the archbishop of York
and Lord Darcy readily complied, by surrendering the fortress without resistance. On the 2d of October, a
herald arrrived at Pontefract with a proclamation from the king. This messenger was received by Aske, seated
On a kind of throne, with the archbishop of York on his right and Lord Darcy on his left, attended by Sir
Robert Constable, Sir Christopher Danby, and others; but the hopes of the rebel general were then too much
elevated to warrant an expectation of that submission which the proclamation required. According to Wilfred
Holme, a writer of that age, residing at Huntington, near York, the following lines were often recited by the
pilgrims of grace, from the antiquated quiddities of Merlin:—
“Foorth shall come a worme, an Aske with one eye,
He shall be the chiefe of the mainye ;
He shall gather of chivalrie a full faire flock
Halfe capon and halfe cocke :
The chicken shall the capon slay,
And after that shall be no May.”
From Pontefract the rebel army marched to Scawsby Lees, near the left bank of the river Don, with the
intention of fording the river, and taking the ancient town of Doncaster, then in possession of the duke of
Norfolk, the leader of the vanguard in the battle of Flodden Field, on whom the king had conferred the command
of the royal army.
The ardour of the priests and their devoted followers, in this northern rebellion, was most striking. The
abbots of Whalley, Salley, Jervaux, Furness, Fountains, and Rivaulx, with all the persons they could influence,
either joined the main army, or made diversions in its favour in their respective districts. In a word, the
whole of the north of England was in a state of alarm and agitation. The king, in this emergency, issued
Warrants to his devoted followers in Lancashire, importuning them to join the earl of Derby in his endeavours
to repress this wide-spreading rebellion. -
The originals of two of these documents are preserved in the Harleian Collection, and are expressed in
similar terms. Both are dated Windsor Castle, 28th Oct. 28th y' of the reign (1536)—one being addressed to
Sir Rodger Bradshawe Knt., and the other to Sir Thos. Langton Knt. In both the king most heartily thanks
them for assembling all their forces, and joining them with “our right trusty and right well-beloved cousin
the earl of Derby,” for the repress" of the traitors and rebels in those parts; requires them to persist and
continue in this faithful towardness, in the company of the said earl, till the traitors shall be utterly subdued;
signifying that the king would not only consider their charges therein, but so remember their services that
they should have cause to say that they had well employed their labours, pains, and travail in that behalf.
The warmth of the king's thanks for the service rendered to the royal cause by Sir Roger Bradshawe and Sir
Thomas Langton, and the solicitude expressed by him that they should continue their services, sufficiently indicate
the sense he entertained of the danger attending this rebellion, not only to the peace and tranquillity of the
county of Lancaster, but also to the stability of his throne. The scene of hostile operations in Lancashire was
principally on the eastern boundary, adjoining to the county of York; and the earl of Cumberland, emulating
the example of the earls of Shrewsbury and Derby, gallantly repulsed the rebels in an attack made upon
Skipton Castle. The main army of the insurgents now prepared to advance to the south ; and, with that
view, they proposed to ford the Don at the point where the earl of Shrewsbury was posted by direction of the
duke of Norfolk; but a sudden rising of the waters of that river, though proceeding from causes purely
natural, served to awaken the susceptible superstition of the followers of Aske, who, viewing this impediment
1 Harl. MSS. cod. 283, fol. 80. 2 MS. cod. 283, foll, 258, 259.
CHAP. XII. (Iije Đígtorg of 3Lancagüire. 155
as an evil omen, were prevailed upon to disperse, partly to repair the deficiency in their commissariat depart-
ment, and partly to afford time to conduct a negotiation between the government and the insurgent chiefs.
The duke of Norfolk was placed in a situation of great difficulty. The impetuosity of the king's temper
disinclined him to make any concessions to his subjects in arms; and the demands of the rebels were such as
to preclude his compliance with them, without compromising the royal dignity. They claimed that a royal
pardon should be granted without exception of persons; that a parliament should be held at York, and courts
of justice established there, so that no suitor on the north side of the Trent should be required to go to London
upon any suit at law. They further demanded a repeal of several acts of parliament, Specifiying particularly
those for the last subsidy, and the statute of uses, with the statute which made words without overt acts
misprision of treason; and the statute requiring the clergy to pay their tenths and first-fruits to the king.
They further desired that the Princess Mary might be restored to her right of succession, the pope to his
wonted jurisdiction, and the monks to their houses again; that the Lutherans might be punished; that Audley
the lord chancellor, and Cromwell, the lord privy Seal, might be excluded from the next parliament; and that
Doctors Lee and Langton, who had visited the northern monasteries, might be imprisoned for bribery and
extortion. After an interval of a month, the “pilgrims of grace” again assembled in greater strength than
before, and once more prepared to ford the Don ; but again the waters rose suddenly, and a second time
prevented that operation. The negotiations were renewed, under the management of Sir Ralph Ellerker and
Sir Robert Bowas, on the side of the insurgents, and of the duke of Norfolk for the king. The duke was
empowered to offer pardon to all the rebels, with the exception of ten ; six of them to be named, and four
unnamed ; but this offer, from the uncertainty which it involved, was refused. It was next proposed by the
duke that a kind of congress should assemble at Doncaster, consisting of three hundred representatives chosen
from the men of the different wapentakes, to negotiate with the duke and the lord admiral, who was a
Fitzwilliam of Aldwark. For some time, the duke, by the direction of the privy council, insisted on the king
exercising the right to except ten persons from the general amnesty; but, finding it impossible to obtain these
terms, he at length agreed that the royal clemency should be extended to the whole of the rebel army without
exception. On these terms the pilgrimage was dissolved (Dec. 9), but the king, on the dispersion of the
insurgents, read them a lecture, in a royal manifesto, of a nature which would, in these days, rather have raised than
Suppressed a rebellion. In answer to that part of their petition which related to the removal of his ministers
who were charged with a design to subvert the religion of the state, and to enslave the people, the king says
“And we, with our whole council, think it right strange that ye, who be but brutes and inexpert folk, do take
upon you to appoint us who be meet or not for Our council: we will therefore bear no such meddling at your
hands, it being inconsistent with the duty of good subjects to interfere in such matters.”
In the interval between the dispersion of the insurgent army of the north and their re-assembling, an
attempt was made by the rebels to take the abbeys of Whalley and Salley, which the earl of Derby was
preparing to resist, when he received the king's command at Preston to disperse his forces. These orders he
obeyed, but finding, on the re-assembling of the rebels, that the danger was imminent, he again collected his
troops, and marched to Whalley, where he succeeded in securing the monastery, and in restoring the public
tranquillity.
The rebel army of the north was dispersed, but the cause of their discontent was in no degree removed.
Several of the monks and others, who had repossessed themselves of the religious houses during the time of
the insurrection, were again ejected, and a fresh rebellion broke out on the northern extremity of Lancashire
under Musgrave and Tilley. The career of the insurgents was short and humiliating; and their only military
operation consisted in besieging the city of Carlisle, in which they entirely failed. The duke of Norfolk,
having put their army to flight, made prisoners of all their officers, with the exception of Musgrave; seventy
of them were brought to trial by martial law, and being found guilty of treason and rebellion, they were all
executed on the walls of Carlisle. Similar risings took place at Hull, and in some other places; and the king,
in the heat of his indignation, seemed to consider these fresh revolts as a justification for the infraction of the
act of amnesty granted by his authority at Doncaster, though many of the accused, who afterwards became
sufferers, were not, and could not be, concerned in the latter rebellion. Aske, the leader of the Pilgrimage of
Grace, was tried and executed; as were also Sir Robert Constable, Sir John Bulmer, Sir John Percy, Sir
Stephen Hamilton, Nicholas Tempest, and William Lumley; many others were thrown into prison, and most
of them shared the fate of their leader. The plea of compulsion set up by Lord Darcy for the surrender of
Pontefract did not avail him, neither did his advanced age of eighty years, though many of them had been
spent in the service of his country." The inexorable monarch, after his condemnation, refused to extend to
and to the fickleness of the king's disposition. The accomplished
1 On being led to execution, Lord Darcy accused the duke of
Norfolk, the commander-in-chief of the king's forces, of having
encouraged the rebellion of the north ; but this charge was disre-
garded by the king, and seems to have had no better foundation
than the anxiety of the duke to spare the lives of the rebels. Near
the close of Henry's reign the duke, and his son the earl of Surrey,
fell into disgrace, owing to the intrigues of their enemies at court,
and lamented Son perished on the scaffold; and his father was
indebted for his life rather to the death of the king than to the
Services he had rendered to his country, by his achievements on the
Ocean, his gallantry in the battle of Flodden, and his still more
distinguished service in dispersing an army of 40,000 men without
the effusion of blood.
156 (The #istorg of £antasijire. CHAP. XII.
him the royal clemency, and he was executed on Tower Hill. “Being now satisfied with punishing the rebels,
the king published anew,” says Lord Herbert, “a general pardon, to which he faithfully adhered; and he
created a patent court of justice at York, for deciding on suits in the northern counties; a demand which had
been made by the rebels.” It appears, however, that the arm of justice was not yet stayed; for at the spring
assizes at Lancaster, in 1537, John Paslew, D.D., abbot of Whalley, was sentenced to death for high treason,
on account of the part he had taken in the northern rebellion, and suffered the extreme penalty of the law on
a gallows erected in front of the house of his birth, in Whalley; while William Trafford, abbot of Salley, and
the prior of the same place, were executed at Lancaster, two days before, along with John Eastegate and
William Haydocke, monks of Whalley. Adam Sudbury, abbot of Jervaux, with Ashbeed, a monk of that
house, and William Wold, prior of Burlington, also suffered death for the same offence.
The part taken by the monks in the rebellion of the north, and the encouragement they had given to
their dependants and tenants to join in that insurrection, served as a reason for the dissolution of the larger
monasteries, of which it had been declared by parliament that “in divers of them religion was right well kept
and observed.” This character, however, did not save them from the rapacious grasp of the spoiler; and the
Sagacity which suggested that the dissolution of the smaller monasteries would soon be succeeded by the
sequestration of the property of the larger establishments was soon made manifest. A new commission, with
the earl of Sussex at its head, was appointed to investigate the conduct of the existing monasteries, and the
commissioners spent nearly four years in going from house to house, by turns soliciting and compelling the
heads of those houses to surrender them, with their lands and revenues, into the hands of the king. Though
these appropriations were so numerous in the reign of Henry VIII., only one original Surrender of any reli-
gious house is to be found; and that is the surrender of the abbey of Furness, in the county of Lancaster.
This instrument is of the date of the 9th of April (1546), in the last year of the king's reign, from which it
appears that the annual value of the monastery was £960, and that thirty monks were attached to that house.
The surrender of Furness Abbey will serve as a specimen of the proceedings under this new commission."
“All the members of the community, with the tenants and servants, were successively examined in private ; and the result of
a protracted inquiry was, that, though two monks were committed to Lancaster Castle, nothing could be discovered to criminate
either the abbot or the brotherhood. The commissioners proceeded to Whalley, and a new summons compelled the abbot of Furness
to reappear before them. A second investigation was instituted, and the result was the same. In these circumstances, says the
earl, in a letter to Henry, which is still extant, ‘devising with myself, if one way would not serve, how and by what means the
Said monks might be rid from the said abbey, and consequently how the same might be at your gracious pleasure, I determined
to assay him as of myself, whether he would be contented to surrender give and grant unto (you) your heirs and assigns the said
monastery; which thing so opened to the abbot fairly, we found him of a very facile and ready mind to follow my advice in that
behalf.’ A deed was accordingly offered him to sign, in which, having acknowledged ‘the misorder and evil rule both unto God
and the king of the brethren of the said abbey,’ he, in discharge of his conscience, gave and Surrendered to Henry all the title and
interest which he possessed in the monastery of Furness, its lands and its revenues. Officers were immediately despatched to take
possession in the name of the king; the commissioners followed with the abbot in their company; and in a few days the whole
community ratified the deed of its superior. The history of Furness is the history of Whalley, and of the other great abbeys in the
north. They were visited under pretext of the late rebellion; and, by one expedient or other, were successively wrested from their
possessors, and transferred to the crown.” -
As an inducement to their superiors to surrender their monasteries, tempting offers of a permament pro-
vision were made to the brotherhood; and to such as withheld their consent, either no allowance whatever
was granted, or that allowance so small as to leave them in a state of abject penury.”
The progress of the Reformation kept pace with the dissolution of the papal institutions; and in the year
1538, the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament were, for the first time, printed entire in English, under
the sanction and authority of the government. Pope Clement, incensed by all these acts of disobedience to
the Romish church, was at length induced to issue his celebrated bull of excommunication, by which the king
of England was declared an apostate, the whole kingdom was put under an interdict, his subjects were required
to rise up in arms against his authority, foreign potentates were charged to make war upon him, and he was
expelled from the pale of the Holy Catholic Church. So far were the thunders of the Vatican from arresting
the king in his sacrilegious career, that, in the following year, a bill was brought into the English parliament,
vesting in the crown all the movable and immovable property of the monastic institutions which either had
already been, or should hereafter be, suppressed, abolished, or surrendered. The heads of the twenty-eight
mitred abbeys, and the two priors of Coventry and St. John of Jerusalem, having been divested of their
revenues, lost the seats which they had hitherto enjoyed in the House of Peers; but the county of Lancaster
did not in this way suffer any diminution of parliamentary influence, seeing that none of those highly-privileged
houses were situated in this county. The abbots, masters, and priors of the religious orders in Lancashire,
however, frequently received writs of summons to parliament; and it appears from the Close Rolls, that from
* See original papers in the British Museum, Cleop. E. iv. 111,
each as a departure-fee, to provide for his immediate wants. The
244, 246. See also West's Furness, Appendix, x. 4-7.
pensions to nuns averaged about £4. “It should, however, be
2 Lingard, iv. 256.
* The pensions to the superiors varied from £266 to £6 per
annum. The priors of cells received generally £13. A few whose
services had merited distinction obtained £20. To the other monks
were allotted pensions of six, four, or two pounds, with a small sum
observed,” says Dr. Lingard, from whom we quote, “that these
sums were not in reality so Small as they appear, as money was,
probably, at that period of ten times more value than it is now.”
This, however, is an over-estimate, taking the price of wheat as the
criterion.
CHAP. XII. Oſije #istory of £ancashire. 157
49 Henry III. to 23 Edward IV. (1264 to 1483), the heads of the Premonstratensian abbey of Cockersand
alone received upwards of one hundred of these parliamentary writs. From this period (1540) is to be dated
the dissolution of all the monastic institutions in the county of Lancaster; and the following is a concise
history of their original foundation, the religious orders to which they were attached, and their estimated in-
come, according to Dugdale and to Speed, at the time of the visitations, which took place in the interval
between 1534 and 1540:—
“At BURSCOUGH was a Priory of Austin, or Black Canons, founded by Robert Fitz-Henry, Lord of Lathom, in the reign of
Richard I. St. Nicholas was the tutelar saint of this house, which had a prior, and five religious, and forty servants, and was
endowed at the dissolution with £80 : 7 : 6 per annum, according to Dugdale; according to a second Valuation, £122 : 5: 7; accord-
ing to Mr. Speed, with £129 : 1 : 10. 5
“At CokERHAM there was a Priory.
“At CoCKERSAND, a Premonstratensian Abbey.” Here was first a hermitage, and then an hospital for several infirm brethren
under the government of a prior, dedicated to St. Mary, and subordinate to the Abbey of Leycestre, founded, or chiefly endowed.
by William of Lancastre, in the time of Henry II. ; but about the year 1190 it was changed into an Abbey of Premonstratensian
Canons, to which there seems to have been united another abbey of the same order, which Theobald, brother to Hubert Walter
archbishop of Canterbury, some years after, built, or designed to build, at Pyling, to the honour of the blessed Virgin. The Abbey
of Cockersand consisted, about the time of the dissolution, of twenty-two religious, and fifty-seven servants, and was then found to
be worth £157: 14S. per annum, Dugd. ; £228 : 5:4, Speed; £282 : 7:4 according to a second valuation. The site was granted, 35
Henry VIII. (1543), to John Kechin. - 2
“At CoNISHEAD, a Priory of Austin Canons. Gabriel Pennington built, in the time of Henry II., upon the soil, and by the
encouragement of William of Lancastre, Baron of Kendal (who was a very great benefactor), an hospital and priory of Black Cañons
to the honour of the blessed Virgin Mary ; which priory consisted of a prior, and seven religious, and forty-eight servants and
was valued at £124: 2 : 1 per annum, Speed; £97: 0:2 Dudg., which was the first valuation; but, upon a second valuation,
#161 : 5 : 9.
“At FURNESS, a Cistercian Abbey. The monastery, begun at Tulketh, A.D. 1124, for the monks of Savigny, in France, was
after three years—viz, A.D. 1127—removed to this valley, then called Bekangesgill.” Stephen, the earl of Morton and Bologne,
(afterward king of England), was the founder of this abbey, which was of the Cistercian order, and commended to the patronage of
the blessed Virgin Mary. It was endowed at the dissolution with £805: 16 : 5 per annum, Dugd. ; £766 : 7 : 10, Speed.
“At UP HOLAND, a Benedictine Priory. Here was, in the chapel of St. Thomas the Martyr, a college or chantry, consisting
of a dean and twelve secular priests, who were changed, A.D., 1319, by Walter, lord bishop of Litchfield, at the petition of Sir
Robert Holand, then patron, and, as I conceive, original founder, into a prior and Benedictine monks. Here were, about the time
of the suppression, five religious and twenty-six servants. This house was valued at £53 : 3 : 4 per annum, Dugd.; £61 : 3: 4
Speed ; and at £78 : 12s, according to a second valuation. It was granted, 37 Henry VIII. (1545), to John Holcroft. 2
“At HORNBY, a Premonstratensian Cell.” An hospital or cell of a prior and three Premonstratensian canons to the abbey of
Croxton, in Leicestershire, of the foundation of the ancestors of Sir Thomas Stanley, Lord Monteagle, to whom the site and domains .
of this priory (as parcel of Croxton) were granted, 36 Henry VIII. (1544). It was dedicated to St. Wilfred, and endowed with lands
to the value of £26 per annum.
“At KERSHALL or KYRKSHAWE, a Cluniac Cell. King Henry II. granted, and King John, anno regni I. (1199), confirmed
to the monastery of Nottinghamshire, the hermitage here, which thereupon became a small house of Cluniac monks, and a cell to
that priory was granted, 32 Henry VIII. (1540), to Baldwin Willoughby.
“At KERTMEL or CARTMELE, a Priory of Austin's Canons. William Mareschall the elder, earl of Pembroke, founded here, A.D.
1188, a priory of regular canons of the order of St. Austin, which was dedicated to the blessed Virgin, and rated, 26 Henry VIII.
(1534), at £91 : 6: 3 per annum, Dugd. ; £124:2:1, Speed ; £212 : 11 : 10 second valuation. Herein, about the time of the disso-
lution, were reckoned ten religious, and thirty-eight servants. The site of this monastery was granted, 32 Henry VIII. (1540), to
Thomas Holcroft. .
“At LANCASTER—(1) an Alien Priory. Earl Roger of Poictiers gave, A.D. 1094, the Church of St. Mary, with some other
lands here, to the abbey of St. Martin de Sagio, or Sees, in Normandy, whereupon a prior and five Benedictine monks were
placed here, who, with three priests, two clerks and servants, made up a small monastery, subordinate to that foreign house, which
was endowed with the yearly revenue of about £80 sterling. After the dissolution of the alien priories, this, with the land
thereunto belonging, was annexed by King Henry V. or his feoffees to the abbey of Syon, in Middlesex. (2) An hospital for a
master chaplain and nine poor persons, whereof three to be lepers, was founded in this town by King John, while he was earl of
Morton, which was afterward, by Henry, duke of Lancaster, annexed to the nunnery of Seton, in Cumberland, about 30 Edward
III. (1356). It was dedicated to St. Leonard. (3.) A priory for Black Friars. Here was a house of Dominican or Black Friars
founded about 44 Henry III (1260) by Sir Hugh Harrington, Knight, which was granted, 32 Henry VIII. (1540), to Thomas
Holcroft. (4.) A Friary for Grey Friars. A Franciscan Convent near the bridge.
‘‘Langrigh, now Longridge. An ancient hospital under Longridge hills, of a master and brethren, dedicated to the Virgin
Mary and our Holy Saviour. 5
“At LYTHOM or LETHUM, a Benedictine Cell. Richard Fitz-Roger, in the latter end of the reign of King Richard I., gave
lands here to the church of Durham, with intent that a prior and Benedictine monks might be settled here, to the honour of
St. Mary and St. Cuthbert. Its annual revenues at the suppression were worth £48 : 19:6, Dugd. ; £53 : 15:10, Speed. The
site as parcel of Durham was granted, 2 Mary (1554), to Sir Thomas Holcroft.
“At MANCHESTER, a College,4 Thomas de la Ware, clerk, some time rector of the parish church here (having the barony
and estate of his brother, John Lord de la Ware, without heirs), obtained leave of the king, 9 Henry V. (1421), to make it
collegiate, to consist of a warden and a certain number of priests. It was dedicated to the blessed Virgin, and endowed with
revenues to the yearly value of £200, or, as they were returned into the first-fruits office, 26 Henry VIII. (1534), £226 : 12 : 5 in
the whole, and £213 : 10: 11 clear. This college was dissolved in 1547, by King Edward VI., but re-founded, first by Queen Mary
and afterwards by Queen Elizabeth, A.D. 1578, and again by King Charles I. A.D. 1636, for a warden, four fellows, two chaplains,
four singing men, and four choristers; being incorporated, as they were before by Queen Elizabeth, by the name of ‘the Warden
and Fellows of Christ Church, in Manchester.’ .
“At PENWORTHAM, a Benedictine Priory. Warine Bussel, having given the Church, and tithes of this place, with several
other estates in this county, to the abbey of Evesham, in Worcestershire, in the time of William the Conqueror, here was shortly
after a priory erected, and several Benedictine monks from Evesham placed in it. This priory was dedicated to the Virgin
Mary, and rated, 26 Henry VIII. (1534), at £29 : 18 : 7 per annum, as Dugdale in one place, and £99 : 5:3 as he saith in another:
and at £114:16:9 per annum, as Speed. The site was granted, 34 Henry VIII. (1542), to John Fleetwood. 5
1. This monastery, by favour of the king, outlived for a short * This cell was resigned before the visitation in 1535.
time the general dissolution. * This college escaped the general dissolution, or was speedily
* The vale of the deadly nightshade. restored.
158 The pistory of Lancashire. CHAP, XII.
“At PRESTON.—(1.) an ancient Hospital, dedicated to St. Mary Magdalen, occurs in the Lincoln taxation, A.D. 1291. The
mastership was in the gift of the king. (2.) A Friary, for Grey Friars. The original builder of the Grey Friars' College, on the
north-west side of this town, was Edmund earl of Lancaster, son to King Henry III. The site of which was granted, 32 Henry VIII.
(1540), to Thomas Holcroft. -
“At WARRINGTON, a Friary for Austin Friars. At the bridge-end near this town was a priory of Augustine Friars, founded
before A.D. 1370, which, 32 Henry VIII. (1540), was granted to the often-mentioned Thomas Holcroft.
“At WHALLEY, an Abbey for Cistercians. Henry Lacy, earl of Lincoln, having given the advowson of the parish to the
White Monks of Stanlawe, in Cheshire, they procured the same to be appropriated to them, whereupon, A.D. 1296, they removed
their abbey hither, and increased the number of their religious to sixty. There was another removal proposed to a place called
Tocstathe, by Thomas earl of Lancaster, A.D. 1316, but it seems not to have taken effect. Whalley was dedicated to the blessed
Virgin Mary, and, at the suppression, had revenues to the yearly value of £321:9 : 1, Dugd. ; £551:4: 6, Speed. It was granted
to Richard Ashton and John Braddyll, 7 Edward VI. (1553).
“At WYERSDALE, a Cistercian Abbey. A colony of Cistercian monks from Furness, for some time fixed here; but about A.D.
1188, they removed over into Ireland, and founded the abbey of Wythney.”
The lands and revenues of the monasteries of Furness, Cartmel, Conishead, Burscough, and Up-Holland,
were confided by parliament to the officers of the duchy of Lancaster, to be administered for the king's use.”
The king also annexed to the duchy of Lancaster property of the yearly value of £769: 4:24, Subject to an
annual pension to chantry priests of £126: 2:4. This appropriation was made through the medium of the
Court of Augmentation, which court was established in the year 1535, for the purpose of Ordering, Surveying,
selling, or letting, all manors, lands, tithes, and other property belonging to the monasteries. The number of
monasteries suppressed in England and Wales amounted in the whole to six hundred and forty-five, exclusive
of ninety-six colleges, two thousand three hundred and seventy-four chantries and free chapels, and One hundred
and ten hospitals;” the value of which property has been variously estimated, but, according to the Liber
Regis, it yielded annually £142,914 : 12:9%;" which, taken at twenty years' purchase, would produce
#2,858,290; worth in our money £28,582,900. The revenues of the church, before the dissolution of the
monasteries, is said to have equalled about one-fourth of the whole landed income of the kingdom." According
to the records in the Augmentation Office, the process pursued by the commissioners, on the dissolution of each
of the monasteries, was as follows:—1st. The commissioners broke its Seal, and assigned pensions to the
members. 2d. The plate and jewels were reserved for the king; the furniture and goods were sold, and the
money was paid in to the Augmentation Office. 3d. The abbot's lodgings and the offices were left standing, for
the convenience of the next occupant ; the church, cloisters, and apartments for the monks, were stripped of
the lead and every other saleable article, and then left to fall to ruins. 4th. The lands were by degrees
alienated from the crown by gift, sale, or exchange. A revenue so immense as that yielded by the monasteries
might, under judicious application, have extinguished all the public burdens both for the Support of the state
and the relief of the poor, and expectations of this kind were held out to the people;' but they were soon
undeceived; pauperism became more extensive than ever, and, within one year from the period of the last
appropriation, a subsidy of two-tenths, and another of two-fifteenths, were demanded by the king, and granted
by parliament, to defray the expenses of reforming the religion of the state.' Henry VIII., like his predecessor,
was rapacious—with this difference, however, that the father collected money to save, while the son amassed
wealth to supply the demands of a licentious profusion. Much of the church property was disposed of to the
king's favourites, by grants or by indulgent sales, one of the conditions of which was, that the new proprietors
of the abbey lands should keep up the ancient hospitality ; but as this was in some degree voluntary, the
practice soon fell into disuse. A portion of the monastic revenues was appropriated to the advancement of
religion, though much less than the king originally intended. His first purpose, as appears from documents
under his own hand, was to found eighteen new bishoprics, but the number declined from time to time, till it
was at last reduced to six—viz. Westminster, Oxford, Peterborough, Bristol, Gloucester, and Chester, in the
last of which were included Lancashire and Richmondshire (in Yorkshire). Anciently there had been a
bishop's see at Chester, but it had merged in the diocese of Lichfield. At the same time the king converted
fourteen abbeys and priories into cathedral and collegiate churches, attaching to each a dean and a certain
number of prebendaries, but none of these were in this county. That the endowments might not be too rich,
each chapter had imposed upon its ecclesiastical revenue the obligation of contributing annually to the Support
I 32 Henry VIII. (1540) c. 20. * Camden’s Brit. i. exci.
* ANNUAL REVENUE OF ALL THE MONASTIC HOUSES CLASSED IN THE ORDERS. -
No. of Houses. Orders. Itevenue. No. of Houses. Orders. Revenue.
#. S. d. | ... f. S. d.
186 * * * Benedictines tº sº e 65,877 14 0 3 • * * Fontefraud Nuns tº e g 825 8 6;
20 * * * Cluniacs & º º 4,972 9 2; 3 tº a ºn Minoresses tº t tº 548 10 6
9 * * * Carthusians * @ is 2,947 15 43 1 & tº Bridgetimes tº $ g 1731 8 93
101 gº & º Cistercians as º ge 18,691 12 6 2 * * * Bonhommes ſº tº º 859 5 1.1;
173 s sº º Austins is tº gº 33,027 I 11 Rnights Hospitallers ... 5,394 6 5}
32 e tº º Premonstratensians ... 4,807 14 1 Friars tº g tº 809 II 84
25 e tº º Gilbertines tº a º 2,421 13 9
* Lord Herbert, p. 396. * Burnet's Records, i, 151. 7 Henry's enormous expenditure is easily accounted for by the
6 5 * fact that his principal employment was gambling.— Privy Purse
Coke's Inst. iv. 44. Eagenses of Henry VIII. p. xxiii.
CHAP. XII. (The #istory of £antagüirº. - 159
of the resident poor, and to the repair of the highways." The order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem,
including the Knights Templar and the Hospitallers, after having existed for four hundred and thirty-six years,
was doomed to suppression by legislative enactment (1540); and the universities of Oxford and Cambridge,
happily for learning in future ages, escaped, though narrowly, the same fate. The chantries in the monas-
teries and churches of this county were very numerous at the period of the Reformation, as may be inferred
from the following List of Chantries, which we find in the records of the office of the duchy of Lancaster:—
1. Warton Church stipend, no date. 19. St. Michael’s-on-Wyre. Chantry.
2. Kirkeby Irelath. Chantry. 20. Manchester College. Tithes of Grain of Bradford, Ardewick,
3. Leverpole Chapel. and Openshaw.
4. Leverpole Chapel. 21. Ballie. Chantry in the Chapel within the Parish of Mitton,
5. Eccleston. Chantry. * Yorkshire.
6. Sefton. Chantry. 22. Chantry in Lancaster.
7. Croston. Chantry. 23. Hollingfare Chapel, in Warrington.
8. Manchester College. Tithes. - 24. Standish Church. Chantry.
9. Manchester. Tithes in Moston, Norton [? Gorton or Newton], 25. Warrington Church. Butler's Chantry.
Yirkemanshulme, Cromeshall. 26. Halsall Church. Chantry.
10. Burscoughe Priory, the Manor. - 27. Preston Church, St. Mary's Chapel.
11. Ormskirke. Chantry. 28. Ribchester Church. Chantry.
12. Eccles. Chantry. 52. Pickering Lythe. Parcel of the Manor, in Yorkshire. Win-
13. St. Michael’s-on-Wyre. Chantry. dell Chapel in Prescot. Chantry.
14. Manchester, Beckwith's. Chantry. 53. Beckingshaw Chapel in Croston, and a tenement in Preston,
15. Manchester College. Tithes of Trafford, Stratford, and Choller- parcel of the possession of College of New-warke, Leicester.
ton. ‘s 54. Silverdale, Bolton, Hest, parcel of the Monastery of Cartmell.
16. Halsal Church. Chantry. 55. Clitherow Chapel, in Whalley. Chantry.
17. Yerleth. Parcel of the Monastery of Furnes. 56. Manchester Church, Trafford's Chapel. Chantry.
18. Beamonde. Parcel of the Monastery of Furmes. 57. Eccles Church. College of Jesus.
The condition of the people appears to have suffered with the suppression of the monastic institutions;
no fewer than four separate statutes were passed between the years 1535 and 1544, setting forth lists of
decayed cities and towns in different, and in almost all parts of the kingdom, wherein it is declared—“That
there hath been in times past many beautiful houses in those places which are now falling into ruin,” and
amongst the towns mentioned in the act of 1544, are, “Lancaster, Preston, Lyrepool and Wigan, in Lanca-
shire.” -
The privilege of Sanctuary was one of the evils of the monastic system, though its date is anterior to the
foundation of monasteries. In virtue of this privilege, certain places became cities of refuge—“seats of peace,”
as they were called; and the inviolability of these asylums in early times is sufficiently indicated by the
answer of Cardinal Bourchier, when importuned by the creatures of the duke of Gloucester to bear away his ill-
fated nephew, young Richard of York, from the sanctuary of Westminster — -
“God in heaven forbid
We should infringe the holy privilege
Of blessed Sanctuary / not for all this land
Would I be guilty of so deep a sin.”
SHAKSPEARE's Rich. III. Act iii. Scene 1.
“These sanctuaries were first instituted and designed for an asylum or place of safety to such malefactors as were not guilty of any
notorious crimes. . . . . . There were many of them in this kingdom before the Conquest; and they became so numerous after,
and so scandalous (divers of them having obtained protection for those that were guilty of high treason, murder, rape, felony, etc.),
that, being complained of in parliament, 1540, immediately after the dissolution of the religious houses, the greatest part of them
were suppressed, and those few that remained reduced to their first institution.”
Manchester was one of the places of Sanctuary in the county of Lancaster; Lancaster was another; and
Chester, then called West Chester, a third. When trade began to extend itself, the nuisance of a harbour for
thieves and other delinquents became intolerable, and, by an act passed 38 Henry VIII. (1546), Manchester
was allowed to forego its privilege, and to transport all the refugees within its jurisdiction to Chester.
The king survived the dissolution of the monasteries seven years, but no event occurred, in that period,
of public interest in the history of Lancashire. During his last sickness, he revoked his former wills, and
ordained that, after his death, his three children, Edward, Mary, and Elizabeth, should succeed him in the
sovereign power, the son as male heir, and the daughters in the order of primogeniture.
1 Rymer, xv. 77. • * - 3 Burton’s MSS.
| 60 Çür #istory of £antašijire. CHAP. XIII.
CHAPTER XIII.
Lancashire in the Reign of Edward VI, ; in the Reign of Queen Mary—Lancashire Martyrs: John Rogers, John Brad-
ford, George Marsh—Muster of Soldiers in the County of Lancaster in Mary's Reign—Lancashire in the Reign
of Elizabeth—General Muster of Soldiers in Lancashire in 1559—Ecclesiastical Commission, consisting of the
Earl of Derby, the Bishop of Chester, and others—State of Lancashire on the Appointment of the Commission
—Catholic Recusants—Mary Queen of Scots seeks an Asylum in England : placed in Confinement—Puritan
Recusants—Rebellion in the North to re-establish the Catholic Religion : Suppressed—Meetings of the Lieu-
tenancy—Original Letter of Edward, Earl of Derby, to the Queen—Letter of the Earl of Huntingdon to Secre-
tary Cecil, casting Suspicion on the Loyalty of the Earl of Derby ; proved to be ill founded—Part taken by
Lancashire Gentlemen to liberate Mary Queen of Scots—Comparative Military Strength of the Kingdom—
|Muster of Soldiers in Lancashire in 1574—T)eclaration of the Ancient Tenth and Fifteenth within the County
of Lancaster—The Chaderton MSS. relating to the Affairs of the County of Lancaster—Original Papers relating
to the Lancashire Recusants—Lancashire Contribution of Oxen to Queen Elizabeth's Table—MS. of the Lanca-
shire Lieutenancy—Lancashire Loyal Association against Mary Queen of Scots and her Abettors—Trial and
Execution of Mary Queen of Scots—The Spanish Armada : Letter from the Queen to the Earl of Derby thereon ;
Preparations in Lancashire to resist ; Destruction of-Thanksgiving for National Deliverance in Lancashire—
Memorable and Fatal Feud—Atrocious Abduction—Levies of Troops in Lancashire for Ireland—Suppression of
the Rebellion there—Death of Queen Elizabeth—Loyal Address of Lancashire Gentry to her Successor James I.
on his Accession to the Throne.—A.D. 1547 to 1603.
ºVERY year during the “infant reign" of Edward VI. the Reformation continued to advance
Kºś e * - ſº * tº g - * . * * &
§º sº with a steady step; but no events of any distinguished public interest occurred within this
º: period, connected with the county palatine of Lancaster. In the first year of this reign, Fran-
º º cis, earl of Shrewsbury, was constituted lord-lieutenant of the counties of Lancaster, York,
º º Chester, Derby, Stafford, Salop, and Nottingham, and in the following year he was made
§ justice of the forests north of the Trent." Under the inhibition of a proclamation,” issued by
the lord-protector, Somerset, in the name of the king, all places of public worship belonging to dissenters, as
well Protestant as Catholic, in this and the other counties of England, were closed; and any preacher, of
whatsoever persuasion, who took upon himself to preach in an open audience, except such as were licensed by
the lord protector, or by the archbishop of York, became obnoxious to the royal displeasure. The avowed
object of this intolerant proclamation was “to produce an uniform order throughout the realm, and to put an
end to all controversies in religion.” At the same time there was a board of commission formed, for advancing
the Reformation, of which Edward, earl of Derby, was a commissioner. This document was founded upon
an act of parliament, by which the archbishop of Canterbury, “with other learned and discreet bishops and
divines,” was directed to draw up an order of divine worship, called a liturgy, or book of common prayer.
This duty having been performed to the satisfaction of the king and his parliament, it was enacted, that from
the feast of Whitsunday 1548, all divine offices should be performed according to the prescribed ritual, and
that such of the clergy as should refuse to conform, or should continue to officiate in any other manner, should,
upon conviction, be imprisoned six months, and forfeit a year's profit of their benefices; for the second offence,
forfeit all church preferment, and suffer a year's imprisonment; and for the third offence, suffer imprisonment
during life. And all that should write or print anything against this liturgy were to be fined, for the first
offence ten pounds, for the second twenty pounds, and for the third forfeit all their property, with
imprisonment for life. Against this act, the earl of Derby and eight of the bishops entered their protest on
the journals of the Lords. In the same arbitary spirit a law was made against Vagabonds, which was covertly
meant to apply to mendicant priests, by which it was enacted, that any persons who should be found,
for three days together, loitering without work, or without offering themselves to work, or that should run
away from work, and resolve to live idly, should be seized on ; and whosoever should present them to a justice
of peace was to have them adjudged to be slaves for two years, and they were to be marked with the letter V
imprinted with a hot iron on their breast. Two years afterwards (1550), this cruel statute was repealed, and
provisions were made for relieving the sick and the impotent, and for setting such of the poor as were able to
work; on which law the celebrated statute of the 43d Elizabeth (1601) was grounded. That the earl of
Derby, and several of the bishops, should have protested against the act of uniformity, and its impracticable
* Lodge's Illustrations, i. p. xiv. * Dated September 23, 1548.






CHAP. XIII. whe #istory of 3Lancašijire. 161
provisions, which act presumptuously assumed “to be drawn up by the aid of the Holy Ghost,” could not be
matter of wonder; but why his lordship, and the earls of Rutland and Sussex, the viscount Hereford, and
lords Monteagle, Sands, Wharton, and Evers, should enter a protest against an act passed prohibiting all
simoniacal pactions for reservation of pensions out of benefices, and the granting of advowsons while the incum-
bent was yet alive, it is difficult to discover, unless upon the supposition that his lordship headed an opposi-
tion alike hostile to all the measures of the existing administration, whether good or bad. The act for legalising
the marriage of the clergy passed in the same year, and was also protested against by the earl of Derby, by
the earls of Shrewsbury, Rutland, and Bath, and by the lords Abergavenny, Stourton, Monteagle, Sands,
Wharton, and Evers. Edward VI., or rather the regency by which his government was directed, imitating
the example of his royal father, instituted a visitation, by which the chantries of Lancashire were inspected by
two lay gentlemen appointed for that purpose, and by a civilian, a divine, and a registrar, in order to ascertain
the state of the chantries, and to apply their revenues to the king's use, to be expended, as was alleged, in the
endowment of schools, the maintenance of the poor, and the erection of colleges. These visitations became
general throughout the provinces of Canterbury and York, and the Suppression of chantries followed as a
matter of course.” Subsequently, Lord Paget, the chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster, was charged with having
appropriated large sums out of the revenues of the Suppressed chantries to his own use, and with other acts of
malversation; of which charges he was convicted, on vague and unsatisfactory evidence, and fined in the enor-
mous sum of six thousand pounds. Nor did the severity of his lordship's sentence end here; he was degraded
from his rank as a knight of the order of the Garter, because he was not a gentleman by descent, either from
his father or his mother. His real offence, however, consisted in his steady adherence to the fallen protector,
the duke of Somerset, by which he became obnoxious to his successful uncle, the duke of Northumberland.
“His Majesty's Council in the Northern Parts,” an institution arising out of the demands of the Pilgrims
of Grace, for the purpose of facilitating the administration of justice, without subjecting suitors in the north to
the trouble and cost of repairing to the metropolis, was organised in this reign, and the earl of Shrewsbury
was appointed to the office of lord president of the council. This court, which was in some degree viceregal,
consisted of a council, with the president at its head, assisted by Henry earl of Westmorland, Henry earl of
Cumberland, Cuthbert bishop of Durham, Lord William Dacres of the north, John Lord Conyers, Thomas Lord
Wharton, John Hind, knt., one of his majesty's justices of the common pleas, Edmund Molineux, knt.; sergeant-
at-law, Henry Savel, knt., Robert Bowes, knt., Nicholas Fairfax, knt., George Conyers, knt., Leonard Becquith,
knt., William Babthorp, knt.; Anthony Nevill, knt., Thomas Gargrave, knt., Robert Mennell, sergeant-at-law,
Anthony Bellasis, John Rokeby, doctor of law, Robert Chaloner, Richard Morton, and Thomas Eynis, esqrs.
The sum of a thousand pounds a-year was granted to the lord-president for the better entertainment of him-
self and his council, with divers revenues to the stipendiary members, who were required to be in continual
attendance upon the council, except at such times as a certificate of absence was granted to any of them by
the lord president. The council was furnished with powers to decide cases between plaintiffs and defendants
in their bill of complaint, without replication, rejoinder, or other plea of delay, with power and authority to
punish such persons as in anything should neglect, contemn, or disobey their command, or the process of the
council; and all other that should speak seditious words, invent rumours, or commit such-like offences (not
being treason), whereof any inconvenience might grow, by pillory, cutting the ears, wearing of papers, imprison-
ment, or otherwise, at their discretion; or to assess fines of all persons who might be convicted of any riot;
and to assess costs and damages, as well to the plaintiffs as to the defendants. And for the more certain and
brief determination of causes, it was ordained that the lord-president and council should keep four general
sessions or sittings in a year, each of them to continue by the space of one month—one at York, another at
Hull, the third at Newcastle, and the fourth at Durham, within the limits whereof the matters arising there
should be ordered and decreed.” In fixing upon these places for holding the periodical sessions of the council,
the convenience of the eastern, rather than of the western counties of the north, seems to have been consulted;
and it is difficult to say why Lancaster was not fixed upon in making the arrangement, in preference to either
Durham or Newcastle. That the suitors might not be oppressed with heavy bills of costs, it was directed,
“that no attorney should take, in one sitting or sessions, above twelve pence, nor any counsellor more than
twenty pence, for one matter.” A fatal malady soon afterwards seized the young monarch, who, in his last
sickness, was entrusted to the charms and medicines of a female empiric. On the 6th of July (1553) he
expired, with the reputation of high talents for government, had time suffered them to be fully developed.
He was succeeded, after an ineffectual effort in favour of the unfortunate Lady Jane Grey, the victim of the
ambition of others, by his sister the Lady Mary, only daughter of Catherine of Arragon.
The reign of Queen Mary is known in the history of Lancashire, as it is in the other parts of the king-
dom of England, more by the bloody persecution which stained it than by any other circumstance. The
reproach of the loss of Calais, the last remaining stronghold of England in France, is almost obliterated by the
streams of blood which flowed to satiate an embittered mind, the abode of Superstition and the slave of priestly
1 Journals of the Lords, 1552. the County Palatine of Lancaster (vols. 59 and 60 of the Chetham
- . Society’s series).-H.
* See the Rev. Canon Raines's History of the Chantries within * Bishop Burnet's Collection of Records, book i. p. ii. No. 56.
Y
162 Çift fligtorg of 3Lancashire. CHAP, XIII.
domination. A period of nearly three hundred years has scarcely been found sufficient to wash away these
sanguinary stains from the religious community to whom they attach ; though they were the crime of the age
in which it was the destiny of this unhappy queen to live, and though her father and her sister, both of the
reformed religion, shared her guilt in a mitigated degree. One of the first acts of Queen Mary was to re-
establish the Roman Catholic religion in this kingdom as the religion of the state; and in furtherance of that
measure the abolished chantries were restored. The following list contains the names of the parish churches
in Lancashire, whose chantries were restored in the first year of the queen's reign (1553-4), with stipends
allowed to the chantry-priests, which were from £1 : 10s. to £6 per annum :—Ashton-under-Lyne, Childwall,
Croston (St. John and St. Trinity), Goosnargh, Halsall (St. Nicholas and St. Mary's), Holme, Kirby, Kirkham
2, Lancaster 2, Manchester collegiate church 7, Mawdline, St. Michael-on-Wyre, Ormskirk, Prestwich, Rufford,
Blackburn, Tarleton, Standish 2, Tunstal, Thurland Castle, Ulverstone, Walton 2, Warrington 3, Warton,
Wigan, and Winwick 2. During the life of her father, Mary had written a penitential letter, expressing her
contrition for not having submitted herself to his “most just and virtuous laws,” in the matter of the Reforma-
tion, and putting her conscience under his royal and paternal direction. The letter is preserved in the
Harleian Collection." The subsequent death of the king, and the possession of the royal power on the part of
his daughter, obliterated the remembrance of these solemn protestations, and she became still more fixed than
before in her attachment to the ancient faith. Her matrimonial alliance with Philip, king of Spain, strength-
ened her previous partialities; and the presence of Cardinal Pole, legate of the pope, one of the most learned
of the clergy, and one of the most devoted disciples of the church of Rome, conspired to fix this attachment.
An act for reviving the statutes of Richard II. Henry IV. and Henry W. against heretics (the Lollards) was
hurried through the parliament, and gave the sanction of law to the executions which speedily followed. The
first martyr in this reign was John Rogers, one of the translators of the Bible in the time of Henry VIII. ;” a
Lancashire man, educated at Cambridge, and one of the first theological scholars of the age. The offence with
which he was charged was that of holding a meeting near Bow Church, in London, where a minister of the
name of Ross had administered the communion according to the rites of the English book of service, and had
openly prayed that God would either change the heart of the queen or take her out of the world. The
tribunal before which he was condemned sat on the 28th of January 1555, and consisted of the bishops of
Winchester, London, Durham, Salisbury, Norwich, and Carlisle; and sentence was passed both upon Hooper,
the silenced bishop of Gloucester, and Rogers; but the utmost severity of the law was only executed on the
latter, the former having at that time been merely degraded from the order of the priesthood. Seven days
after the sentence of condemnation was passed (Feb. 4), Rogers was called to make ready for Smithfield, where
he was sentenced to be burnt at the stake for heresy. When brought to Bonner's, bishop of London, to be
degraded, he asked permission to see his wife, in order that he might, through her, convey his dying blessing
to his ten children; but the request was peremptorily refused, with the insulting taunt that he was a priest,
and could not possibly have a wife. When fastened to the stake, a pardon was brought, and offered to him,
on condition that he would recant ; but, with an intrepidity which nothing but religious principle can inspire,
he rejected the proffered clemency, and assumed the crown of martyrdom.
The next Lancashire martyr executed in Smithfield was John Bradford, born at Manchester, who had in
early life been a man of the world, and filled the office of secretary to Sir John Harrington, the treasurer of
Henry VIII. and Edward VI. At a subsequent period he became a divine of exemplary piety,” of mild and
diffident manners, but of a character so decided that he did not hesitate to lay down his life for the truth of
that religion which he had embraced from strong conviction. To so high a pitch had religious hostility
attained, that Bourn, a canon of St. Paul's, and aftewards bishop of Bath, while preaching a sermon in favour
of the Catholic faith, had a dagger hurled at him by one of the congregation. From this violence he was
happily rescued by Bradford, who assuaged the storm of popular tumult. But this was made a charge against
him ; and it was alleged that his power to allay the storm proved that he could direct the elements of which
it was composed. Though a prebendary of St Paul's, he preached much in Lancashire, his native county,
where his piety and his zeal rendered his ministry peculiarly acceptable. Being sent to the King's Bench prison,
he was tried along with Dr. Taylor, for denying the doctrine of transubstantiation, or the corporeal presence of
Christ in the sacrament, and asserting that wicked men do not partake of Christ's body in that ordinance. In vain
was his fear appealed to ; he would admit of no tenets or practices but such as were contained in the holy
scriptures; and being found “incorrigible,” he was deemed a heretic ; first excommunicated, and then con-
demned. For some months he was confined in Newgate, in the hope that he would retract his “heretical
errors;” but instead of abjuring, he employed himself in promulgating them, particularly amongst his
friends in Lancashire; and the earl of Derby, in declaiming against him in the House of Lords, informed their
lordships that Bradford had done more hurt by the letters he had written while he was in prison than he
could have done by preaching, had he been at large and at liberty to preach.” “With Bradford,” says Bishop
1 Cod. 282. See also Cotton MSS. lib. Otho, C.X. mate friend, “his chains, rings, brockets, and jewels of gold, which
* In the dedicatory epistle of that Bible, this divine signs himself before he used to wear, and did bestow the price of this his former
Thomas Matthew. vanity in the necessary relief of Christ's poor members.
8 When he became religious, “he sold,” says Simpson, his inti- * These letters breathed the most ardent spirit of piety, com-
CHAP. XIII,
Qſìje #istorm of £ancashire. 163
Durnet, “one John Lease, an apprentice of nineteen, was led out to be burnt, who was also condemned upon
his answers to the articles exhibited to him. When they came to the stake, they both fell down and prayed.
Then Bradford took a faggot in his hands, and kissed it ; and so likewise kissed the stake, expressing thereby
the joy he had in his sufferings; and cried, “O England, repent, repent, beware of idolatry and false anti-
christ l’ But the sheriff hindering him from speaking any more, he embraced his fellow-sufferer, and prayed
him to be of good comfort, for they should sup with Christ that night. His last words were, “Strait is the
way, and narrow is the gate, that leadeth into eternal life, and few there be that find it.” (July 1555.)
George Marsh, a native of the parish of Dean, was the third and last Lancashire martyr who suffered in
the reign of Queen Mary. This single-minded man had been brought up as a farmer with his father, who was
a Lancashire yeoman, but he afterwards embraced the profession of a divine, and to his duties of a curate
added those of an instructor of youth. The obscurity of his station did not preserve him from persecution; he
was charged with propagating heresy and sowing the seeds of sedition; and, finding that he had become the
object of suspicion, he surrendered himself to the earl of Derby at Lathom House. Here he underwent various
examinations," and several attempts were made to prevail upon him to espouse the Catholic faith, but, as they
all proved unsuccessful, he was at length committed by his lordship to Lancaster Castle, and confined in irons
with common felons. While in this situation, endeavours were made to extract from him information,
whereon to found charges against other persons in the county; but no motives of fear or reward could induce
him to endanger the lives or liberties of his fellow-christians. After remaining some time in confinement at
Lancaster, he was removed to Chester, and placed in the bishop's liberty. The bishop's (Dr. Coates's)
endeavours to “reclaim" him having proved ineffectual, he was remanded back to prison, and, in a few days,
summoned before the spiritual court, assembled in the cathedral church at Chester, where, in the presence of
the mayor, the chancellor, and the principal inhabitants of the city, he was accused of having preached most
heretically and blasphemously in the parishes of Dean, Bury, and Eccles, as well as in other parishes in the
bishop's diocese, not only against the pope's authority, but against the church of Rome, the holy mass, the
sacraments of the altar, and the articles of the Romish faith. To these charges he modestly answered he had
preached neither heresy nor blasphemy, and that the doctrines which he believed and had propagated were
those sanctioned by royal authority in the reign of Edward VI. On the subject of the power of the pope he
did not hesitate to declare that the bishop of Rome ought to exercise no more authority in England than the
archbishop of Canterbury ought to exercise in Rome. This answer raised the bishop of Chester's indignation
to the highest possible pitch, and the torrents of his indignation flowed out with so much fury, that he
stigmatised his prisoner as “a most damnable, irreclaimable, and unpardonable heretic.” After some further
endeavour made by the chancellor to reclaim this “irreclaimable heretic,” the bishop proceeded to pass sentence
upon him, and he was consigned to the Northgate prison, where he remained till the 4th of April 1555. On
this memorable day, he was led to execution amidst a crowd of spectators, agitated by conflicting feelings.
The scene of this horrible tragedy was a precinct of Chester called Spital Broughton, within the liberties of the
city. After the exhibition of a conditional pardon, as was the prevailing practice, from the queen, by the vice-
chancellor, Mr. Vawdrey, and the refusal of the martyr to retract his faith, the people, roused to indignation by
the barbarous scene that presented itself, attempted to rescue Marsh from the hands of his sanguinary
murderers, and Sheriff Cowper, sharing the public feeling, joined in the attempt ; but he was beaten off by the
other sheriff and his retainers. The most composed man in the assembly was the victim about to be
sacrificed to his principles; he exhorted the multitude to remain strong in the faith, and the faggots being
lighted around him, he surrendered his spirit into the hands of his Redeemer. While these revolting scenes
were acting in the north, the powers of persecution raged in the south with undiminished fury, and the
distinguished martyr, Cranmer, archbishop of Canterbury, shared the fate of so many of his order. The effect
of these sanguinary persecutions was to spread the doctrines they were meant to destroy ; and it may be fairly
doubted whether ever so many converts were made to the Protestant faith in the same time as during those
years, when the seeds of the church were thus watered by the blood of the saints.
In the early part of this reign, a muster of soldiers was made in the county palatine of Lancaster, from
the respective hundreds, of which the following is the abridged record, from a MS. in the possession of Thomas
Birch the younger, esquire of Birch, temp. Eliz.
Saviour Jesus Christ. Ah good brethren, take in good part these
my last words unto every one of you. Pardon me mine offences
and negligences in behaviour amongst you. The Lord of mercy
bined with an invincible heroism ; and, in one of them, addressed
to the inhabitants of “Lancashire and Cheshire,” written from his
prison a short time before his martyrdom, he thus expresses him-
self —“Turn unto the Lord, yet once more, I heartily beseech thee,
thou Manchester, thou Ashton-under-Lyne, thou Bolton, Bury, Wigan,
Liverpool, Mottram, Stopport, Winsley [? Worsley], Eccles, Prest-
wich, Middleton, Radcliff, and thou city of West-Chester, where I have
truly taught and preached the word of God. Turn, I say unto you
all, and to all the inhabitants thereabouts; turn unto the Lord our
God, and he will turn unto you; he will Say unto his angel, “It is
enough, put up the sword.’ And that he do this, I humbly beseech
his goodness, for the precious blood sake of his dear Son, our
pardon us all our offences, for our Saviour Jesus Christ's sake.
Amen.”
1. In the course of one of these examinations, Marsh gave the earl
the following well-deserved reproof:-‘‘It is strange that your
lordship, being of the honourable council of the late King Edward,
consenting and agreeing to acts concerning faith towards God and
religion, should so soon after consent to put poor men to a shame-
ful death for embracing the same religion.”
164
CHAP. XIII.
The pistory ºf lantasite.
LANCASHIRE MILITARY MUSTER.—MARY, 1553.
“DERBY HUNDRED to raise 430 men ; these were the commanders of them :—
“Edward Earl of Derby, Sir Richard Molyneux, Sir Thomas Gerrard, Sir Peers Legh, Sir John Holcroft, Sir John Atherton, Sir
William Norris; Thomas Butler of Bewsey, George Ireland of Hale, William Tarbock of Tarbock, Lawrence Ireland of Lydiate, Esquires,
“SALFORD HUNDRED—350 men.
“Sir Edmuud Trafford, Sir Wm. Ratcliffe, Sir Robert Longley, Sir Thomas Holt, Sir Robert Worseley; Robert Barton, Edward
* Holland, Ralph Ashton, Esqs.
“LEYLAND HUNDRED–170 men.
“Sir Thomas Hesketh ; Edward Standish, John Fleetwood, Roger Bradshaw, John Langtree, Peers Anderton, and John
ton, Esqs.
“AMOUNDERNESS HUNDRED–300 men.
“Sir Thomas Hesketh, Sir Richard Houghton ; George Brown, John Kitchen, Richard Barton, William Weſs]tbie, and Wm. Barton, Esqs.
“BLACKBURN HUNDRED–400 men.
Wrighting-
“Sir Richard Shireburn, Sir Thomas Langton, Sir Thomas Talbot, Sir John Southworth ; John Townley, Thomas Catterall, John
Osbolston, John Talbot, Esqs.
“LONSDALE HUNDRED—350 men.
“The Lord Monteagle, Sir Marmaduke Tunstall; Thomas Carus, George Middleton, Thomas Bradley, Hugh Dicconson, and Oliver
Middleton, Esqs.
The Parish of Ormskirk
The Parish of North Meols .
The Parish of Aughton
The Parish of Altcar
The Parish of Hallsall.
The Parishes of Leyland
The Parish of Croston
Warton
Carleton º e
Hardhome with Clifton
Much Eccleston .
Clifton º º
Bispham and Norbreke
Scalnew and Straynowe
Freckleton . - e
Thilston
Warton e -
Newton and Scales
Ashton, Inghill, and Cottom
Out Rawcliffe
Thornton - e
Layton and Warbrick . .
The Parish of Blackburn
The Parish of Whalley
Cockeram .
Ellall.
Wiersdale .
Wiremore .
Turnham . º
Ashton and Stodley
Scotford . -
Buke and Alkelefe
Lancaster .
Skerton e e e
Taisholme, Pulton, and Bare
Teisham
Overton
Middleton .
Hayton and Oxcliffe
Halton and Aughton
Sline and Heste .
Eolton º
Nether Kellet
Over Kellet,
Compyne Wraye .
men 28
. 9
. 12
. 9
. 28
. 36
. 36
i
;
:
I
“HUNDRED OF WEST DERBY.
The Parish of Sefton .
The Parish of Walton
The Parish of Wigan .
The Parish of Prescot,
The Parish of Winwick
“THE HUNDRED OF LEYLAND.
Brindle Parish, cum villa .
Parochia de Chorley et will .
“THE HUNDRED OF AMOUNDERNESS.
Pulton
WetOn
Threleye . •
Houghton . gº * -
Little Eccleston and Larbreke
Upper Rawcliffe and Tornecard .
Little Singleton and Grange
Westbye and Plumbton
Rigby and Wraye
Elliswicke. e -
Relmyne and Brininge
Kirkham . g º
Wassed
Lithum
“THE HUNDRED OF BLACKBURN.
The Parish of Ribchester .
“THE HUNDRED OF LONSDALE.
Barwicke .
Carnford
MartOn
Silverdale .
Healand
Hutton
Dalton
Gressingham
Whittington
Newton
Docker
Tunstall
Camffeild .
|Barrow
Loeke
Irebie
Thatum
Hornbye
Claughton.
Caton
“SALFORD HUNDRED, no particular returns.”
I
:
20
| The Parish of Leigh
The Parish of Warrington
The Parish of Childwell
The Parish of Huyton
Parochia de Eccleston .
Penwortham Parish
Elston and Huddersall
Goosenargh º
Much Singleton .
Whittington
Haighton
Elson -
Fryswicke . - º
Grymsawre and Unkefall
Ribbleton . º
Lea . º
Plumpton .
Billesburghe
Barton's Newisame
Parish of Garstang
Pendle Forest, .
ROSSendall Forest
Jºhūrīvess
Bayliwicke of Hawshead
Bayliwicke of Milthwaye
Ditto of Colton .
Ditto of Grisdale
Ditto of Smithwick
Ditto of Clayfe
Dalton in Furness
Bardsay .
Kirkby Irelith
Lanckewicke • g
Norland and Egton Ulverston
Osmunderly
Pennington
Torwarbboth
Hamlet of Cromston
Doversdale Broughton.
Much Land
men 36
. 25
. 27
. 16
. 19
1.
I:4
:
1.
2
Broughton cum Membis, with To wnship
of Cartmell
Cartmell, Holoar, and Aithwaite
is
Four years afterwards, when England had become involved in that war which expelled her from the
*... .
* * ***** *- : . .-
&: ;
§3.
{{#ſ;; ; ; ;
CHAP. XIII. Qſìje ??istory of £ancašijire. 165
continent of Europe, a royal proclamation was issued by the king and queen to Nicholas, archbishop of York,
chancellor of England, commanding him to cause commissions to be issued under the great seal to the justices
of the peace and sheriffs of the counties of Lancaster, Suffolk, and Norfolk, with full powers to array, inspect,
and exercise all men-at-arms and men capable of bearing arms, as well archers as horse and foot men, so that
from the present time, and in time to come, they might be arrayed in arms ready to serve their country." All
this preparation was unavailing; a siege of eight days, under the duke of Guise, rendered the French masters
of Calais, a fortress which it had cost the conquerors of Cressy eleven months to acquire, and which, for two
hundred years, had been held by this country as the key to the dominions of the French king.
Soon after the fall of Calais, the Scots, influenced by French councils, began once more to move on their
borders, and to threaten the northern counties of England with invasion. At this juncture, the earl of Derby,
as lord-lieutenant of the counties palatine of Lancaster and of Chester, addressed a despatch to the earl of
Shrewsbury, lord-president of the north, apprising his lordship of the measures that had been taken to array
the levies in Lancashire and in Cheshire against “the Scottish doings,” of the number of the forces, and of the
captains by whom they were to be commanded. The despatch is of the date of the 29th of September 1557,
and the following are the -
“CAPTEYNS IN THE COUNTY OF LANCASTER,
“Sir Richard Molynexe, K. [knight], or his son & heire; a feeble man himself . e tº g tº © 200
“Sr Thom's Gerrard, K. 200
“Sr Thom's Talbot, K. e sº • g * * e e g g º º e e g 200
“Sr Richard Hoghton, K. not hable himself, but will furnish an hable Gent, to be Capteyn : Bycause he is
not hable to goo himself doth furnish but . ſº gº * g g g g tº tº * 100
“Sº Thom's Hesketh, & others with hym . º ſe sº g º g e wº g sº g e 100
“Sº Thom's Langton, Knt. Sº Will"m Noresse, Knt., neyther of them hable, but will furnishe an hable
Captevn . º tº g º e e § g e e * st g * . * & * 100
“Sr wi. *aši; or his son and heire Alex, who is a hansome Gent. & Sº John Atherton joened wº him . 100
“Fraunc's Tunstall, & others . ſº g • tº * º & e g e te g g & I00
“Sº John Holcroft, or his son and heire—Richard Asheton of Myddſelton], & others . & e g e 100
“It"m, The rest appoynted in Lancashier be of my retynnue.
“EDWD. DERBy.”
Disappointed in all her hopes, Mary's spirits sank under her accumulated disasters, and at the age of forty-
two years she descended childless to the grave, leaving the throne to the possession of her sister Elizabeth,
whose masculine habits and discriminating mind much better fitted her to wield a sceptre.
The death of Queen Mary, on the 17th of November 1558, found the Lady Elizabeth, now become
queen of England, at Hatfield; and a summons was immediately sent by the queen's council to the marquis of
Winchester, the earl of Shrewsbury, the earl of Derby, and other noblemen, requiring them to repair thither,
to conduct the queen to London. Amongst the nobles assembled to perform this first act of loyal duty, were
the duke of Norfolk, Lords Audley and Merley, Lord Dacres of the north, Tord Monteagle, Lord Vaux, Lord
Wharton, and many others. In parliament, the annunciation of Elizabeth by the archbishop of York was
hailed with acclamation, and the general cry of “God save Queen Elizabeth,” not merely from the courtiers,
but also from the patriots, gave promise that a new and more happy era had already commenced. The state
religion was soon destined to undergo another change; but instead of being rapid and violent, it was condicted
with great prudence; and that the feelings of the Catholics might not be outraged by a sudden transition, the
queen retained a number of her Catholic ministers, taking care to have a sufficient number of the reformed
faith to overrule their deliberations. To further the great work of ecclesiastical reform, the queen set on foot a
royal visitation throughout England, and appointed commissioners to visit each diocese, whose business it was
to inquire into the late persecutions; to ascertain what wrongs had been done, what blood had been shed,
and who were the persecutors. They were further directed to minister the oath of recognition, and to enjoin
the new book of service, which was to come into general use on the festival of John the Baptist. Another of
their duties was, to examine such as were imprisoned and in bonds for religion, though they had already been
condemned, and to liberate them from prison. The commissioners for the north (1559) were, Francis earl of
Shrewsbury, president of the council in the north, Edward earl of Derby, Thomas earl of Northumberland,
lord warden of the East and Middle Marches, Thomas Lord Evers, Henry Percy, Thomas Gargrave, James
Crofts, Henry Gates, knts. ; Edwin Sandys, D.D., Henry Harvey, LL.D., Richard Bowes, George Brown
Christopher Escot, and Richard Kingsmel, esqrs.
The northern visitation commenced at St. Mary's, Nottingham, on the 22d of August 1559, and was
continued throughout the dioceses of Lincoln, York, Chester, and Durham. The commissioners received the
complaints of many clergymen, who had been ejected from their livings during the last reign for being
married ; and in almost all cases they were restored. Tr. Sandys, one of the visitors for the northern parts,
preached against the primacy of the pope; he also endeavoured to prepare the clergy to take the oath of
supremacy to the queen, which was required of them, and to which most of them conformed, though in Lanca-
shire there were many who declined to take the oath, and who staunchly supported the doctrine of the real
presence in the Sacrament.
* Pat. 3 and 4. Phil. and Mary (1556-7), p. 5. m. 11 dors.
166 (ſhe #igtúrg ºf £ancašijire. CHAP. XIII.
In these times of religious and political excitement, the clergy were naturally prone to mix up secular
subjects in their discourses, and to convey to the royal ear, when occasion presented itself, the views of the
preachers on the administration of government. This species of preaching a certain great man at court
(probably Lord Burghley) writing to Dr. Chaderton, afterwards bishop of Chester, thought proper to rebuke.
“The queenes majestie,” saith he, “doeth mislike that those who preach before her should enter into matters
properlie appertaining to matter of government:” they were therefore required to abstain from such preaching;
not that her majesty wished to close her ears against the advice of those who were moved to desire amendment
in things properly belonging to herself, but, on the contrary, was willing to hear any that should, either by
speech or writing, impart their sentiments, but she did not wish to be lectured in public, nor to have the affairs
of government animadverted upon before the vulgar."
It having been enacted that the oath of Supremacy should be taken to the queen, her Majesty issued a
proclamation to Sir Ambrose Cave, knt., chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster, dated at Westminster, on the
23d of May 1559, directing that this oath should be taken throughout his jurisdiction, both by the clergy and
laity.” At the same time she directed that all the chantries should conform themselves to the practice of her own
chapel, and in that (though much of popish ceremony was retained) she forbade that the host should be elevated,
and commanded that the Lord's prayer, the creed, and the gospels, should be read in the Vulgar tongue. In
the following year, a number of new bishops were consecrated, amongst whom were Edward Scrambler, D.D.,
for Peterborough; and James Pilkington, B.D., for Durham, both Lancashire men, and both firm adherents
of the reformed religion. Soon after his inauguration, Dr. Pilkington preached before the queen at Greenwich,
on the mission of a fanatic, from the county of Lancaster, of the name of Ellys, calling himself Elias: the
bishop of London had, however, so little regard for the northern prophet, and his “warning voice,” that he
ordered him three days afterwards to be put in the pillory in Cheapside, from whence he was committed to
Bridewell, where he soon after died.”
The bishopric of Chester having become vacant, the queen issued her mandate to the chancellor of the
duchy of Lancaster, announcing that the dean and chapter, with her majesty's license, had elected William
Downham to be their bishop and pastor, and commanding the chancellor to cause to be delivered up without
delay the temporalities belonging to the episcopal see within his bailiwick, together with the issues and profits
thereof, from the feast of St. Michael the Archangel.
That the nation might be put in a posture of defence, a muster of troops was ordered in the several
counties of the kingdom ; and the following is the
GENERAL MUSTER, IN JANUARIE 1559,4
CERTIFIED WITHIN THE COUNTY OF LANCASTER.
BLACKEBURNE HUNDRED–407 harnessed men, unharnessed men 406.
AMOUNDERNES HUNDRED–213 harnessed, unharnessed 369.
LONDESDALL HUNDRED–356 harnessed, unharnessed 114.
LEYLONDE HUNDRED–80 harnessed, unharnessed 22.
SALEFORDE HUNDRED–394 harnessed, unharnessed 649.
WEST DERBY—459 harnessed, unharnessed 413.
Sum Total of harnessed men, 1919.
Sum Total of unharnessed men, 2073.
Hollinworth says, “there was a sore sicknesse” in Lancashire in 1565, which was probably some remains
of the plague contracted by the English army at Newhaven, in 1562; at which time, Stowe avers, that 17,404
persons died in London alone in one year.
Although the progress of the Reformation was rapid in many parts of the kingdom, in the county of
Lancaster it was retrograde. The Catholics multiplied; the mass was usually performed; priests were
harboured; the book of common prayer, and the service of the church established by law, were laid aside ;
many of the churches were shut up ; and the cures were unsupplied, unless by the ejected Catholic priests.
This was thought the more extraordinary, as the queen had instituted an ecclesiastical commission, with the
bishop of the diocese at its head, for the promotion of religion. To stimulate the zeal of the prelate, the
queen addressed to him in 1567 a letter of remonstrance, couched in her usual tone of decision, reminding
him of his duty, and requiring of him its more vigilant performance. “We think it,” says the queen, “not
unknown, how, for the good opinion we conceived of your former service, we admitted you to be bishop of the
diocese; but now, upon credible reports of disorders and contempts, especially in the county of Lancaster, we
find great lack in you. In which matter of late we write to you, and other our commissioners joined with
you, to cause certain suspected persons to be apprehended, writing at the same time to our right trusty and
well-beloved the earl of Derby, for the aid of you in that behalf. Since which time, and before the delivery
of the said letters to the earl of Derby, we be duly informed that the said earl hath, upon small motions made
to him, caused such persons as have been required to be apprehended, and hath shown himself therein,
according to our assured expectation, very faithful and careful of our service.” In conclusion, the bishop is
* Chaderton's MS. fo. 32 a. Peck's Desid. Cur. p. 83. * Pat. 1 Eliz. m. 32, dors. * Strype's Ann. of ye Reformation, i. 506.
4 Harl. MSS. cod. 1926, fo. 4 b. - * Pap. Office, Strype's Ann. i. 544-5.
CHAP. XIII. Qſìje ??igturn of 3Lancagüirº. 167
required to make personal visitation, by repairing to the most remote parts of his diocese, and especially into
Lancashire, and to see to it that the churches be provided with honest men and learned curates, and that
there be no more cause to blame him for his inattention and neglect. At a subsequent period, the lords of
the council wrote to the bishop, complaining that many persons in the counties of Lancaster and Chester
absented themselves habitually from church, and from places of public prayer, and requesting that the bishop
would take measures to enforce their attendance. To this intimation his lordship replied, that he had made
diligent inquisition into the matter of complaint, that some of the gentry and others had promised to be more
conformable in future, but that others had disregarded his admonitions, and that he had enclosed a list certi-
fying the names of those who remained obstinate, and of those who promised to conform." The zeal of the
earl of Derby in favour of the reformed faith, so warmly eulogised by the queen, was the zeal of a convert,
and therefore perhaps the more lively. In the last reign, his lordship embraced the cause of popery, and the
committal of the intrepid George Marsh to that dungeon from which he was liberated only to be conducted
to the stake, serves to show that sudden changes in religious faith were not confined to priests, but that they
were extended to nobles, and to a certain extent pervaded the whole people. In the county of Lancaster there
was more of consistency than in other parts of the kingdom; and this is a principle which excites respect,
even though it should be a consistency in error. The queen's admonitions to the bishop, as the head of the
ecclesiastical commission, produced an immediate effect. The bishop entered upon his visitation with all
convenient despatch ; many of the popish recusants, as they were called, were detected in plots to subvert the
established religion, and to substitute their own in its stead; and the county was engaged in a kind of religious
warfare, which is described with considerable animation, and probably with as much accuracy as can be
expected, by an author having a strong bias towards the Protestant cause:—
“And first,” says our author, “to give some account of the Bishop's Visitation. Which proved thus, according to the
Relation he made of it himself to the Secretary in a Letter to him, dated Nov. 1, 1568, ‘That he had the last Summer visited his
whole Diocess, which was of Length above six score Miles; and had found the People very tractable; and no where more than in
the farthest Parts bordering upon Scotland. Where as he said, he had the most gentle Entertainment of the Worshipful to his
great Comfort. That his Journey was very painful by reason of the extreme heat; and if he had not received great Courtesy of
the Gentlemen, he must have left the most of his Horses by the way; Such Drought was never seen in those Parts.” The Bishop
also now sent up, by one of his Servants, a true Copy of all such Orders as he, and the rest of his Associates, in the Queen's
Commission Ecclesiastical, had taken with the Gentlemen of Lancashire. Who (one only excepted, whose name was John
Westby), with most humble Submissions and like Thanks unto the Queen's Majesty, and to her Honourable Council, received the
same ; Promising that from thenceforth they would live in such sort, that they would never hereafter give occasion of Offence in
anything concerning their bounden Duty, as well towards Religion, as their Allegiance towards their Prince. But notwithstanding
their Promises, the Commissioners bound every of them in Recognizances in the sum of an Hundred Marks for their Appearances
from time to time, as appeared in the abovesaid Orders. And certain Punishments inflicted upon some of them had done so much
good in the Country, that the Bishop hoped he should never be troubled again with the like. Nowel, Dean of S. Paul’s, London,
was a Lancashire man, and was now down in that Country. Who with his continual preaching in divers Places in the County,
had brought many obstinate and wilful People unto Conformity and Obedience, and had gotten great Commendation and Praise (as
he was most worthy) even of those that had been great Enemies to his Religion.
“But now to set down particularly what had been detected and discovered among these Lancashire Papists, and the Negligence,
or Lothness of the Bishop to prosecute them. Information was brought into the Bishop by One Mr. Glasier, a Commissioner, and
another named Edmund Ashton, that great Confederacies were then in Lancashire. And that Sundry Papists were there lurking,
who had stirred divers Gentlemen to their Faction, and sworn them together, not to come to the Church in the Service time, now
set forth by the Queen's Authority, nor to receive the Communion, nor to hear Sermons; but to maintain the Mass and Papistry.
And after this Information, Glasier advised the Bishop to go to the Earl of Darby, and to execute the Commission in Lancashire;
or else it could not be holpen but many Church Doors must be shut up, and the Curates hindered to serve as it was appointed to
be used in the Church. And that this Confederacy was so great, that it would growe to a Commotion, or Rebellion. The Bishop
hereupon sent for those Offenders by Precept, but declined to go yet to execute the Commission in Lancashire. Again, Sir Edward
Fytton informed the Bishop, that Mr. Edmund Trafford spake of these Matters before to him as a Commissioner, for to have redress
thereof. Whereupon Mr. Gerrard said, that if the Bishop would not go to Wygan in Lancashire, or such like Place, and sit to
execute the Commission, and move the Earl of Darby to be there (who had assured them he would sit and assist), he knew that a
Commotion would ensue ; and that he knew their Determination was thereunto. For that his Kinsman and Alliance to his
Remembrance (naming Mr. Westby) had told him, He would willingly lose his Blood in these Matters. Also he said further, that
from Warrington all along the Sea Coasts in Lancashire, the Gentlemen (except Mr. Butler) were of the Faction, and withdrew
themselves from Religion ; as Mr. Ireland, Sir Win Norris, and many others more. So that there was such a Likelihood of a
Rebellion or Commotion speedily, that for his Part, if the Bishop would not go to execute the Commission in Lancashire, he would
himself within twelve Days inform the Privy Council. And yet he had desired the Bishop to deliver the Commission unto him,
and Fytton to execute : but the Bishop refused, saying he would send for the Offenders. But afterward, the Bishop and Gerrard
signed Precepts for divers Papistical Priests and some Gentlemen to appear before the Commissioners concerning the Premisses.
“Again, one Edmund Holme made this Discovery; That there was a Letter written from Dr. Saunders [Nicolas Saunders] to
Sir Richard Molineux and Sir William Norris; the Copy of which Letter was ready to be shewed. The Contents of it, as it seems,
were, to exhort them to own the Pope supreme Head of the Church ; and that they should swear his Supremacy, and Obedience to
him, before some Priest or Priests appointed by his Authority; who should also absolve them that had taken any Oath to the
Queen as supreme, or gone to Church and heard Common Prayer. Hereupon Sir Richard Molineux did make a vow unto one
Norrice, otherwise called Butcher, otherwise called Fisher, of Formeby; and unto one Peyle, otherwise called Pyck (who reported
that he had the Pope's Authority,) that he would do all things according to the Words of the said Letter. And so did receive
Absolution at Pyck's hand; And he did vow to the said Pyck, that he would take the Pope to be the Supreme Head of the Church.
And the said Molineux's Daughters, Jane, Alice, and Anne, and his son John, made the like Wow as their Father had done.
And then they took a Corporal Oath on a Book. And so did John Mollin of the Wodde, and Robert Blundel of Inse, and Richard
Blundel of Christby, and Sir Thomas Williamson, and Sir John Dervoyne, and John Williamson. These were some of those Popish
Gentlemen of Lancashire; and these were their Doings. But the Commission Ecclesiastical, roundly managed, had pretty well
reduced them, as we heard before. . In what Form the Submission ran, to which these Popish Gentlemen subscribed, before they
l Hall. MSS. cod, 286, fo. 28. * Strype's Ann. i. 546-552.
168 Ǻr £istory of 3Lancagüirº. CHAP. XIII.
made their Peace, I know not. But I find this Year one Form offered to Sir John Southworth, of these Parts (who had entertained
Priests, and absented from the Church), by order of the Privy Council; which was as followeth —
“Whereas I, Sir John Southworth, Knt., forgetting my Duty towards God and the Queen's Majesty, in not considering my due
“Obedience for the Observation of the Ecclesiastical Laws and Orders of this Realm, had received into my House and Company, and there
“relieved, certain Priests, who have not only refused the Ministry, but also in my hearing have spoken against the present State of
“Religion, established by her Majesty and the States of her Realm in Parliament, and have also otherwise misbehaved myself in not
“resorting to my Parish Church at Common Prayer, nor receiving the Holy Communion so often times as I ought to have done :
“I do now, by these Presents, most humbly and unfeignedly submit myself to her Majesty, and am heartily sorry for mine Offence in
“this Behalf, both towards God and her Majesty. And do further promise to her Majesty from henceforth, to obey all her Majesty's
“Authority in all Matters of Religion and Orders Ecclesiastical ; and to behave myself therein as becometh a good, humble, and obedient
“Subject; and shall not impugn any of the said Laws and Ordinances by any open Speech, or by Writing, or Act of mine own; nor
“willingly suffer any such in my Company to offend, whom I may reasonably let or disallow : Nor shall assist, maintain, relieve, or
“comfort any Person living out of this Realm, being known to be an Offender against the said Laws and Orders now established for godly
“Religion, as is aforesaid. And in this doing, I firmly trust to have her Majesty my gracious and good Lady, as hitherto I, and all other
“her Subjects, have marvellously tasted of her Mercy and Goodness.”
& 6 But this knight refused to subscribe the submission, any further than in that point of maintaining no more those disordered
persons.”
Mary Queen of Scots, having at this time been expelled from her throne by her subjects, under the
authority of the earl of Murray, regent of the kingdom of Scotland, sought an asylum in England, but before
she could be admitted to the court, it became necessary that she should justify herself from the charge of
having been accessory to the murder of her husband. In this she failed; indeed, her agents refused to pro-
ceed with the investigation, when the evidence of her guilt became conclusive ; and, instead of being admitted
to the court of Elizabeth, she was ever after kept as her prisoner, first in Bolton Castle, afterwards at the
castle of Sheffield, then at Tutbury, and finally at the castle of Fotheringay. Several of Mary's adherents now
fled out of England from Lancashire, and other parts of the kingdom, and it was discovered in the course of
the year (1568), that sums of money were sent to them from hence, to promote the invasion of England, and
to re-establish the ancient religion. The recently-created bishopric of Chester was amongst the lowest of the
livings in the English church, not exceeding in value three hundred and fifty pounds a-year; and yet such
was the hospitality at this time kept up by the bishops, that Dr. Downham, in his application to the queen
for the extension of his commendam, represented that he supported, every day, in virtue of his office, “forty
persons, yong and old, besides comers and goers.” The bias of the queen's mind was towards the ancient
religion, with all its forms and ceremonies, so far as was consistent with that Supremacy which she claimed as
the head of the church; and though the real presence was denied by the reformed church, she openly thanked
one of her preachers for a sermon he had preached in favour of that doctrine.” Celibacy in the ministers of
religion was always viewed by her with favour; and all the influence of her favourite minister Cecil was
necessary to prevent her from interdicting the marriage of the clergy. While this was the disposition of the
queen, several of her ministers conceived that the reform in the religion of the state was by no means suffi-
ciently radical; and not only Cecil, but Leicester, Knolles, Bedford, and Walsingham, favoured the Puritans,
who derived their origin from those exiled ministers that, during the reign of Queen Mary, had imbibed the
opinions of Calvin, the reformer of Geneva. Their historian” describes the Puritans as objecting to the
assumed supremacy of the bishops, and the jurisdiction of the ecclesiastical court ; to the frequent repetition of
the Lord's prayer in the liturgy, to the responses of the people, and to the reading of the apocryphal lessons;
to the sign of the cross in the administration of baptism ; and to the ring and the terms of the contract in
marriage; to the observance of the festivals in the calendar, the chaunt of the psalms, and the use of musical
instruments in the cathedral services; and, above all, to the habits, “the very livery of the beast,” enjoined
to be worn by the ministers during the celebration of divine services. Dean Nowell, one of the queen's
chaplains, so celebrated for his preaching in Lancashire, his native county, was understood to favour the Puri-
tanical doctrines, which was probably one of the causes of his popularity in this county; and when, in a
sermon preached before his royal mistress, he spoke disparagingly of the sign of the gross, she called aloud to
him in the congregation, and ordered him “to quit that ungodly discussion, and to return to his text.”
From this period, through a succession of ages, the county of Lancaster continued much divided on
subjects of religion and politics; the Catholics assuming the high church and the monarchical principles, and
the Puritans the low church and democratic principles, while the established church held the balance
between the two, by turns favouring the former or the latter, as best accorded with the objects and views of
the existing government ; and not unfrequently restraining and even persecuting both. In no county in the
kingdom have the distinctions been so marked as in Lancashire, and in none will this observation be found so
unerring an index whereby to account for the local feuds, and for the party animosities.
Several of the leading families of the north, anxious to re-establish the Catholic religion, and to place
Mary Queen of Scots on the throne of England, entered into a conspiracy for this purpose, at the head of
which stood the earls of Northumberland and Westmorland. One of their first objects was to liberate Mary
from her confinement in Tutbury Castle, and Sir Thomas and Sir Edward Stanley, sons of the earl of Derby,
along with Sir Thomas Gerrard, and other Lancashire gentlemen, favoured the enterprise. In furtherance of
this object, the earls of Northumberland and Westmorland put forth the following proclamation—
1 Bishop Downham's Letter to the Secretary of State, 1568. * Heylin, p. 124. * Neal's History of the Puritans, cc. iv. v.
CHAP. XIII. (Iſiſt ºigtúrg of £antagijire. | 69
“THE DECLARATION OF THE EARLS AT THE RISING IN THE NORTH. 1
“We, Thomas Earl of Northumberland, and Charles Earl of Westmorland, the Queen's true and faithful subjects, to all that
came of the old and Catholic Religion, Know ye that we with many other well-disposed persons, as well of the Nobility as others,
have promised our Faith to the Furtherance of this our good meaning, Forasmuch as divers disordered and evil-disposed persons
about the Queen's Majesty have by their subtle and crafty dealings to advance themselves, overcome in this Realm the true and
Catholic Religion towards God, and by the same abused the Queen, disordered the Realm, and now lastly seek and procure the
destruction of the Nobility: We therefore have gathered ourselves together to resist by force, and the rather by the help of God
and you good people, to see redress of these things amiss, with the restoring of all ancient customs and liberties to God's Church,
and this noble Realm ; lest if we should not do it ourselves, we might be reformed by strangers, to the great hazard of the state of
this our country, whereunto we are all bound.
- “God save the Queen.” - %
The influence of the leaders of the insurrection, and the attachment of the people to the Catholic faith,
drew together an army of four thousand foot and six hundred horse. To strengthen their force, the earls of
Westmorland and Northumberland addressed a letter to the earl of Derby (Nov. 27, 1569), requesting him
to join their standard, and to procure for them such aid and assistance as his lordship could collect, in “all
parts of his terrytoryes, to effect their honorable and godly enterprises.” Seven days before the date of this
despatch, the earl of Derby had received a commission from the queen, appointing him lord-lieutenant of the
county of Lancaster; and, instead of listening to their treasonable invitation, his lordship, without loss of
time, inclosed the letter of the rebel earls to the queen, accompanied by the following despatch —
“THE EARL OF DERBY TO THE QUEEN’s MAJESTY.
“My most humble and obedient duty done. It may please your Majesty to understand, that this Day, being the 29th of this
Month, one Walther Passelewe brought to my Howse a Letter from the Earls of Northumberland and Westmorlande, together with
a Protestation of their undutiful Meaning and rebellious Attempt (as may appear), which the said Passelewe prayed one of my Ser-
vants, might be delivered to me: The which after I had received, perceiving the same to be unsealed, and, upon perusing, finding
the matter to swerve so far from the Duty of any good Subjects, thought it my Part to give the same to be understanded of your
Majesty, and so have sent them enclosed as I received them. The Bearer, because I could not safely send him without Guard, I
have sent to come with more leisure, but with as much speed as conveniently may be used. I found with him the like Letter and
Protestation sent to my Lord Mounteagle, which I have also sent enclosed. And resting your Majesty's assured at Commandment,
beseeching God long to prosper your Majestie, and make you victorious over your enemies, I humbly take my Leave.
“From Lathom, my House, the 29th November 1569.-Your Majesty's most humble and obedient Subject and Servant,
** EDWARD DERBY.”
The queen and her council, ever alive to their duty and the public Safety, assembled an army of seven
thousand men, at the head of which the earl of Sussex was placed, attended by the earl of Rutland, and the
Lords Hunsdon, Evers, and Willoughby. The royal army having overtaken the insurgent force in the bishopric
of Durham, the earls of Northumberland and Westmorland retreated to Hexham, where, on hearing that the
earl of Warwick and Lord Clinton were advancing against them, they dispersed their forces without striking a blow.
This abortive effort of treason was succeeded soon after by another rebellion in the north, raised by Leonard
Dacres, which was suppressed by Lord Hunsdon, at the head of the garrison of Berwick, without any other
assistance. Great severity was exercised against such as had taken part in these rash enterprises. Sixty-six
constables were hanged” for neglect of duty, and no fewer than eight hundred persons are said to have suffered
by the hands of the public executioner. Fifty-seven noblemen and gentlemen of the counties of Northumber-
land, York, Durham, etc., implicated in this rebellion, were attainted by parliament in the following year; but
the list of proscriptions does not contain any Lancashire names." To guard against the recurrence of rebellion,
and speedily to suppress any attempt to disturb the public tranquillity, the levies of troops, armour, and money
were very abundant this year in the county of Lancaster; and, amongst the original certificates preserved in
these returns, the following autographs appear:— .
“Edward Derby, F. Stanley, Thomas Butler, Thos. Gerrard; Hundred of West Derby.—Thomas Hoghton, Cuthbert Clifton ;
Hundred of Amounderness.--Thomas Hesketh, Edwarde Standysshe ; Hundred of Layland.—Rich. Shyrburn, Sir Rychard Assheton, John
Braddyll; Hundred of Blackburn.—Wyllum Mountegle; Hundred of Lonsdale.—Robert Worseley, Edmund Trafford, John Radclyff, Robt.
Barton, Edward Holand, Raffe Assheton, Francis Holt ; Hundred of Salford.”
In the course of the same year a memorable search had been instituted in the county of Lancaster, by
order of the lords of the council, which was simultaneously made in the other parts of the kingdom, for
vagrants, beggars, gamesters, rogues, or gipsies, which was commenced at nine o'clock at night, on Sunday the
10th of July 1570, and continued till four o'clock in the afternoon of the following day, and which resulted in
the apprehension of the almost incredible number of thirteen thousand “masterless men,” many of whom had
no visible mode of living, “except that which was derived from unlawful games, especially of bowling, and
maintenance of archery, and who were all passed to their own counties, under the direction of the magistrates.”
The effect of this vigorous measure of police, which was continued monthly till the November following, was
to diminish the numbers that would otherwise, in these unsettled times, have swelled the insurgent force, and
endangered the stability of the government.
The earl of Derby, in the discharge of his duty as the head of the lieutenancy in the counties of Lancaster
and Chester, assembled the justices of the peace in the palatine counties, in their respective divisions, for the
1 Harl. MSS. cod. 787, fo. 10 b. * Burghley's State Papers, i. 564. * Camden, p. 423.
4 Harl. MSS. cod. 309, fol. 201 b. * Strype's Ann. vol. i. p. 572.
Z
170 - The #istory of Lancashire. CHAP. XIII.
purpose of arranging their forces, and for adjusting the assessments to which they should respectively be liable.
These arrangements being completed, they were transmitted to the lords in council, accompanied by the
following despatch —
ORIGINAL LETTER OF THE EARL OF DERBY.
“Right honorable my very good Lords accordinge to the Queen her mates pleasure unto me and others signified by yor letter
and articles, I have caused the Sheriffs, commissioners of the musters, and Justices of the peace of the Counties of Lancaster and
Chester (where I am her majesty's lieutenant), to assemble in their accustomed divisions sundry times for the execution of the same:
Who have made inquisition as well touching such sums of money as have been assessed or taxed since the date of her mates last
commission for musters, for provision of armour, weapons, shot, and such like. As also for taxations, collections, and assessments of
money for the furniture of Soldiers for her mate service with other things in the said letters and articles contained, and have sent unto
yor L. herewth all the said certificates of both Shires, whereof the last came to my hands so latelye as upon Friday last, Woh was
the cause of so long tract of time of both certificates. Thus wih my very hearty Commendations unto yor good L I take my leave of
you. From Lathom my howse the 7th of September 1570–Yor good L. very loving Friend assured EDWARD DERBY.”
[Indorsed] “To my very good Lords of the Queen -
her mate honorable privy Council
give these.”
[In another Hand] 1570 7° 7'bris.
“The Earl of Derby to the Council with certificates out of the
counties of Lancaster and Chester touching money
collected for provision of Armour and Weapons.” [Harl. MSS. cod. 309, fo. 104.]
Devoted as the earl of Derby had shown himself to the service of the queen, yet suspicion was entertained,
and that in high quarters, that his loyalty was of a dubious kind, and that it would scarcely withstand
the temptations to which it was exposed, from the wicked counsellors by whom he was surrounded.
Under the influence of these suspicions, it is probable that Margaret, countess of Derby, the widow
of Edward, the late earl, had been apprehended, and placed in confinement; for, from a letter addressed
by her ladyship to Mr. Secretary Walsingham, in the course of the present year, it appears that she was a
state prisoner, labouring under the accumulated pressure of bodily affliction and pecuniary embarrassments.
The suspicions against the earl of Derby were communicated to the queen's secretary of state by the earl of
Huntingdon, in a letter, intended to have been consigned to the flames as soon as it was read, but which has
outlived its original destiny. A number of suspicious circumstances were accumulated against the earl
of Derby, and, amongst others, he was strongly suspected of keeping a conjuror in his house ! The letter
was in these terms:–
Si THE EARL OF HUNTYNGDON TO SECRETARY CECIL.1
IT,
“I am bolder to write to you of weighty matters, than I dare be to some others; the Cause I leave to your Consideration, and
so to you only I am bold to impart that I hear. The Matter in short is this : Amongst the Papists of Lancashire, Cheshire, and the
Cousins, great Hope and Expectation there is, that Derby will play as fonde a Part this year, as the two Earls did the last Year. I
hope better of him for my Part, and for many Respects, both general and particular, I wish him to do better. I know he hath
hitherto been loyal, and even the last Year, as you know, gave good Testimony of his Fidelity, and of his own Disposition; I think
will do so still ; but he may be drawn by evil Counsel, God knoweth to what. I fear he hath even at this Time many wicked
Councillors, and some too near him. There is one Browne a Conjuror in his House, kept secretly. There is also one Uphalle, who
was a Pirate and had lately his Pardon, that could tell somewhat, as I hear, if you could get him : He that carried my Lord Morley
over was also there within this Se’nnight kept secretly. He with his whole Family never raged so much against Religion as they
do now ; he never came to common Prayer for this Quarter of this year, as I hear, neither doth any of the Family except five or six
Persons. I dare not write what more I hear, because I cannot justify and prove it; but this may suffice for you in Time to look to
it. And Surely, in my simple opinion, if you send some faithful and wise Spy that would dissemble to come from D’Alva, and
dissemble popery, you might understand all; for if all be true that is said, there is a very fond Company in the House at this
Present. I doubt not but you can and will use this Matter, better than I can advise you. Yet let me wish you to take heed to
which of your Companions (though you be now but five together) you utter this Matter, me forté it be in Latham sooner than you
would have it, for some of you have Men about you and Friends attendinge on you, etc., that deal not always well. I pray God save
Our Elizabeth, and confound all her Enemies; and thus I take my leave, committing you to God his Tuition. *
“From Ashby the 24th of August 1570. - Your assured poor Friend,
- “H. Hu NTYNGDON.”
“P.S.—Because none there should know of my Letter, I would not send it by my Servant, but have desired Mr. Ad to deliver
it to you in Secret : When you have read it I pray you to burn it, and forget the name of the Writer. I pray God I may not hear
any more of your coming to 3 y
The earl of Derby's loyalty remained unshaken through another ordeal. A new conspiracy was formed
by the duke of Norfolk, in concurrence with Mary Queen of Scots, whom the duke proposed to marry, in
which he was aided by the duke of Alva, the Spanish general, and the court of Rome, the object of which
was, to deprive Elizabeth of the throne, and to elevate Mary to that distinction. The vigilance and Sagacity
of Secretary Cecil, now become Lord Burghley, discovered the treasonable confederacy, and the duke was
brought to trial before a commission of twenty-six peers, amongst whom were “Arthure Grey, Lord Wylton,”
and “William West, Lord de Laware.” -
An unanimous sentence of death passed against the duke, which was carried into execution in the middle
of the following year (1572); and the earl of Northumberland, for the part he had taken in the northern
rebellion, shared the same fate. Against the Queen of Scots, though her prisoner, Elizabeth did not venture
yet to proceed to the utmost extremity, but she sent Lord Delaware, Sir Ralph Sadler, Sir Thomas Bromley,
and Dr. Wilson, to expostulate with her on her intended clandestine marriage with the duke of Norfolk, on
her concurrence in the northern rebellion, on the encouragement she had given to Spain to invade England, and
1 Lord Burghley's State Papers, i. 603. 2 Harl. MSS. cod. 542, fo. 77.
CHAP. XIII. Çür #istory of 3|amtāšijire. | 7 |
on the part she had taken in procuring the pope's bull of excommunication against Elizabeth, and particularly
upon allowing her friends abroad to give to her the title of “Mary Queen of England.” These charges Mary
denied, and justified herself either by repelling the allegations, or by casting the blame on others over whom
she had no control.' The queen was by no means satisfied with these apologies; and the temper of parliament,
as expressed in the application for the immediate trial and execution of Mary, showed that a storm was
gathering, by which that unfortunate princess was speedily to be overwhelmed. The evidence of the bishop
of Ross, exhibited in the Burghley State Papers, shows that Mary was, as early as the year 1571, in negotia-
tion with the ambassadors of both France and Spain, for her escape from Sheffield Castle to the continent, and
that she was aided in her design by several Lancashire gentlemen. The bishop says the queen wrote a
letter by a little priest of Rolleston's, that Sir Thomas Stanley, Sir Thomas Gerrard, and Rolleston, desired a
“cypher for her, and that they offered to convey her away, and willed this examinate to do the Duke (of
Norfolk)'s opinion herein.” He further says, that Hall told him, that if the queen would get two men landed
in Lancashire, Sir Thomas Stanley and Sir Edward Stanley, along with Sir Thomas Gerrard and Rolleston,
would assist her escape to France or Flanders, and that the whole country would rise in her favour.
The death of Edward, the munificent earl of Derby, with whom, says Camden, “the glory of hospitality
hath in a manner been laid asleep,” took place at Lathom House, on the 24th of February in the year 1573;
and he was succeeded in his title and estates by Lord Strange, a nobleman honoured with the special favour
of Queen Elizabeth, and for whose family she entertained the highest regard." -
The progress of public improvement in the county of Lancaster appears to have been slow up to the time
of Elizabeth, as may be collected from an expression contained in a petition from Dean Nowel, the founder of
the free-school of Middleton, for the better encouragement of learning and true Christianity, who, in speaking
of the people, designates them as “the inhabitants of the rude country of Lancashire.”
During this reign, the military strength of the kingdom was taken with great accuracy; and from the
muster or order of government in 1574 it appears that Lancashire then ranked amongst the first counties
of the kingdom in military strength, furnishing 6000 able men, 3600 armed men, 600 artificers and pioneers,
12 demi-lances and 90 light horse, and that in number of able-bodied men it was only exceeded by Cornwall,
Devonshire, Sussex, Somerset, Norfolk, Oxford, Dorset, Kent, Yorkshire, and probably Middlesex, of which the
return is only partially given. The population of Yorkshire, when compared with Lancashire, was then in the
proportion of nearly seven to one, though now the population of Lancashire is larger than that of Yorkshire.
Of the other counties, Lancashire exceeds the highest of them, except the metropolitan county of Middlesex.”
MUSTER OF SOLDIERS IN THE COUNTY OF LANCASTER IN 1574.
[Harl. MSS. Cod. 1926, foll. 5-19a.]
“The numbers of demy-lances, horses, geldings for light horsemen, armor, munition and weapons put in Readiness within the County
of Lancaster, as well by force of the statute as granted of good Will, by persuasion of the Commissioners of the general
musters. And of the particular names and surnames of them weh do furnish, have and keep the same for her Matieff’sºice
weh were Certified into her Hon. Privy Council, conjoined with the general musters by force of the First and Second
Commissions of the said musters the month of August 16th Eliz. Reging.”
w; wº # § * £-
# ź ad à § # ‘s tr; à ad to
--> ta C tº tº 2– dº
-Hº • P-4 --> *-4 P. & F | – 24 r–4 *—t
HUNDRED OF DERBY. # # 3 ää P+ 5 # - gº 3 | # ſº
º P H º: 5 H a
These are to furnish :— -*-s ºne -º-e i =====s *º-º-º &m-ºsmº = -s. *-*-* r *m-ºsmºs I am-º-m-mº
Henry, Earl of Derby (3 lances to be horsemen) 6 10 | 40 | 40 | 40 || 30 30 30 20 | 20 20
Sir Tho. Stanley, Knt. g º e tº gº tº 2 3 3 3 3 3 3
Sir Tho. Gerard, Knt. I 2 || 10 10 || 10 8 8 ... 3 3
Bichard Bold, Esq. I 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2
Tho. Butler, Esq. sº e tº e 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3
Sir John Holcroft, Knt. * , ºr I | 2 2 2 2 2 I 1.
Geo. Ireland, Esq. * * g sº * e e * † tº 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 1 I
Henry Halsall, Esq. . * & tº de & e º 1 || 2 || 3 | ... 3 || 3 || 3 || 3 || 2 || 2
Roger Bradshaw, Esq. tº º ſº i. 2 2 2 2 2 2 | 1.
Edward Tyldesley, Esq. 1. 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1
Edward Scarisbrick, Esq. 1 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 || 2 I 1.
Wm. Gerard, Esq. I 2 2 2 2 2 2 I l
Edw. Norrys, Esq. I 2 2 2 2 2 2 || 1 I
Richd. Massye, Esq. 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 1
Peter Stanley, Esq. I 2 2 2 2 2 2 1. 1.
Henry Ecclesby, Esq. l 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 I
* Camden, p. 442. * Burghley's State Papers, ii. 184.
* Vol. ii. pp. 20 and 112. * By the population-returns of 1861 the numbers stand thus:–
* Sir Thomas Stanley, Sir Thomas Gerrard, and Rolleston, were Inhabitants of Yorkshire......... .... ......... 2,033,610.
apprehended, and committed to the Tower as state prisoners.-- Middlesex ...................... 2,206,485.
Lord Burghley's Papers, ii. 771. - Lancashire. ..................... 2,429,440.
72 (The #igturn of £antaghirt. CHAP. XIII.
F. F- ++ go 24 U2 * -
HUNDRED OF DERBY—Continued. P | H ... 3 H GQ
John Byron, Esq. I 2 2 2 2 2 2 I I
John Moore, Esq. & & 1 | 1 1 1
Richd. Blundell, Esq. º s 1 1 ... 1 ... . . . ... . ... l
John Kylshawe [? Culcheth], Esq. 1. 1 ... 1 / ... . . . . . . . . . ... I
Barnaby Kitchen, Esq. & * 1 1 || 1 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
John Bold, Esq. • ... . ... | 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
Bartholomew Hesketh s & e i s º º 1 1. I I 1 I 1.
|Mr. Langton, de Lee . 1 | 1 1 1
Adam Hawarden 1.
Richard Urmston - 1
Edmund Hulme (of Male) I
Thos. Ashton . - º º e e - - º 1 1 1 I l 1 1
J. Molyneux (of Melling), Geoff. Holcroft, Rob. Blundell (Ince),
Tho. Lancaster, John Rysley—same as Tho. Ashton.
Hamlet Ditchfield * º e gº * º 1 I 1 1 ! ... 1 I
Humphrey Winstanley - * g º - - º l 1 1 | ... | 1 1
John Bretherton, Tho. Molineux, John Ashton, Tho. Abrahams,
Fras. Bold, Rd. Eltonhead, Rob. Fazackerley, Wm. Ashehurst,
Lambert Tildesley, John Crosse, and Ellis Kigheley, the
same as Humphrey Winstanley.
Nicholas FleetCroft to furnish † © * * º I 1. 1 I I
Richd. Holland, Wm. Naylor, Jas. Lea, Wm. Molineux, Adam
Bolton, Rd. Bould, Rd. Hawarde, Ralph Sekerston, Rob.
Corbett, and Rd. Mosse, the same as Nicholas Fleetcroft. - - I - I - I - a --- * = I -am-m- -** * *-s
Summary for the Hundred of [West] Derby. 9 || 39 || 85 118 111 || 106 || 106 || 90 54 || 71 || 45
HUNDRED OF LEYLAND.
Sir Tho. Hesketh, Knt., to furnish (and 2 Harquebuts) . I 2 || 3 || 3 3 || 3 || 3 || 3 | ... 2
Edwd. Standish, Esq. . g g º g º s 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 I 1
Wm. Farington, Esq. (for goods) to furnish I I I 1 harquebut
Tho. Standish, Esq. (for lands) 53 1. 1 | 1 1 ditto
Rd. Lathom, Esq. & º w ſº e - -> • 1
Tho. Ashall, Rob. Charnock, Rd. Ashton, same as Rd. Lathom.
Henry Banister, Esq. e * º * tº e te 1 I I I 1 harquebut
John Adlington, Esq. . t e * º º g e I 1 1 | 1 I ditto
Peter Farington, wife of Jno. Charnock, Wm. Chorley, John
Wrightington, Gilbt. Langtree, Edw. Worthington, Lawrence
Worthington, same as Jno. Adlington.
Wm. Stopford I 1 1 1
John Butler © e e º • -> 1 I l l
[The following 47 persons, each same as J. Butler]
Thomas Stanynawght, George Norres, Richard Todde, Richard
Jevum, Rich. Hoghe, John Clayton, Tho. Solome, Wm.
Tarleton, John Stones, John Stewerson, John Lightfoote,
Wm. Forshawe, Edmunde Parker, Willm. Tayler, Henry
Farington, Rich. Foreste, Robert Cowdrye, Henry Sherdley, ~
Rawffe Caterall, Thomas Sharrocke, Thomas Gellibronde,
Alexander Brerde, Roberte Farington, Wm. Cowper, Oliver
Garstange, John Cuerdon, Robert Mollyneux, Edward Hodg-
son, Richard Withrill, Laur. Garstange, Gilberte Howghton, an
James Browne, Thomas Dickonson, Laur. Finche, Vx. Thur- B
ston Hesketh, John Wakefielde, Seth Forester, James Tomp- º
son, Thomas Chisnall, Laur. Nightgall, Vx Roberte Charnocke, #
Richard Nelson, James Prescote, Rich. Tompson, Robert 3
Forster, John Lawe, Roger Brodhurste. •==- sºsºm- H - I - I - I - I = –-- I —- I -—
Summary for the Hundred of Leyland. 1 | 11 || 5 14 || 14 70 || 70 || 70 | 10 || 10 || 49 || 4
HUNDRED OF BLACKBURN.
Sir Rd. Sherburne, Knt., to furnish 1. 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2
John Towneley, Esq. . e º 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 T I
Sir John Southworth, Knt. . 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 I 1
John Osbaldeston, Esq. 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 l
Tho. Caterall, Esq. I l I I 1 harq.
Tho. Nowell, Esq. 1 | ... . . . . . ... | 1 || 1 || 1 | ... . ... 1 ditto
Rd. Ashton, Esq. I 2 2 2 2 2 2. I 1
Jno. Talbot, Esq. I 2 2 2 2 2 1 | 1
Nicholas Banester, Esq. 1.
John Rishworth, Esq. I
Rd. Grymeshaw, Esq. o º º & - . º 1 1 I I 1 1.
Tho. Walmysley, Esq., Jno. Braddyll, Esq., Hy. Towneley, -
Tho. Aynsworth, Nich. Parker, Same as Richd. Grymeshaw.
Alex. Houghton, gent. o e e p. • - º I I 1. 1 | . 1 1. 1. 1
CHAP. XIII.
iº, .
… I
The pistory of Lancashire.
HUNDRED OF BLACKBURN–Continued.
Roger Nowell, Esq. . t & sº & º g º
Wm. Barecroft, Hy. Banester, Tho. Watson, Ilvan Heydock,
JEdw. Starkie, Rob. Moreton, Olin Birtwisle, Jno. Greenacre,
Nicholas Hancock,-same as Roger Nowell.
Tho. Astley, to furnish g * tº º º wº
Tho. Whittacre, Geo. Shuttleworth, Francis Gartside,-same as
Tho. Astley.
Rob. Smith gº º & te t e g
[The following 70 persons to furnish same as Rob. Smith.]
John Ashowe, Nicholas Robinson, George Seller, Nicholas
Halstidd, Wm. Langton, Bryan Parker, Laurence Whitacre,
John Ormrode, Rawffe Haworth, Richard Cunlyffe, Rich.
Parker, Wm. Barker, Adam Bolton, George Talbot, Thomas
Lassell, Thomas Isherwoode, Richard Haberiame, Wm. Starkye,
Bich. Harrison, Rich. Crounlowe, Tho. Honghim, Rich. Shawe,
Rich. Bawden, Alexander Lyvesaye, William Churchlowe,
Rawffe Talbotte, Edwarde Carter, Rich. Woodde, Tho. Holli-
day, Roger Nowell, Hughe Shuttleworth, Hughe Halsted,
Henry Speake, Tho. Enot, Henrie Shawe, Peter Armerode,
Thomas Walmysley, Thomas Dewhurst, Olin Ormerode, John
Nuttall, Gilberte Rishton, Nicholas Cunliff, Henrie Barecrofte,
Laur. Blakey, John Hargreve, James Fieldes, James Hartley,
Thomas Ellys, Thurston Baron, Roberte Caruen, George
Elston, Barnarde Townley, Oliver Halsted, John Seller, John
Pastlowe, John Whittacre, John Aspinall, Roberte Cunliff,
Richard Charneley, Geffrey Ryshton, Roberte Seede, Thurstone
Tompson, Richard Bawden, Tho. Osbaldeston, John Holden,
Gyles Whitacre, Richard Tattersall, Roberte Smithe, Nicholas
Duckesburie, William Merser.
Summary for the Hundred of Blackburn
HUNDRED OF AMOUNDERNESS.
John Rigmaiden, Esq., to furnish.
Cuthbert Clifton, Esq. tº g tº ge º * ſº
John Westby, Tho. Barton, Wm. Skillicorne,—same as Cuthbert
Clifton.
Richd. Traves • . g g *
Jas. Massey, Geo. Alane,—-same as Rd. Travers.
Rob. Mageall
Thos. RicSon
Wm. Hodgkinson * & & tº º * g
Wm. Banester, Tho. Breres, Roger Hodgkinson, Laurence
Walles, same as Wm. Hodgkinson.
Wm. Hesketh to furnish of good will . * g $ *
Rob. Plesington, Tho. Whyttingham, Wm. Singleton, John
Weale, Evan Heydock, Wm. Burrell,—same as Wm. Hesketh.
Henry Kyghley . g * & º 4-8 tº
Summary for the Hundred of Amounderness
HUNDRED OF LONSDALE.
Wm. Lord Monteagle— * One to be a horse
Rob. Dalton, Esq. g *
Fras. Tunstall, Esq. . e & se sº g & ſº
Geo. Middleton, Esq., Roger Kirbie, Esq.-same as Fras.
Tunstall.
Wm. Fleming
Tho. Carus. g
Rob. Byndlowes . g * e
Tho. Curwen—a light horse furnished
Wm. Thornborowe, do. do.
Gabriel Croft &
Nicholas Brudsey tº
George Southworth . tº º * g * g º
Jas. Ambrose, Wm. Redman, Marmaduke Blackburne, Anthony
Rnipe, Tho. Stanfilde,-same as Geo. Southworth.
John Preston, Esq. . º g tº tº e
Fras. Tunstall t g g * & g g
Nicholas Hudleston, Rd. Curwen, Rd. Redman,—same as Fras.
Tunstall.
Edward North [or Corthe] . .
O
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174 (Iſiſt ºigturn of £ancagüirº. C HAP. XIII.
tº
& +2 tº | e *-
à | # | 3 | #3 * | . g #, a £ ºff
§ 3 || 3 | "...? | 3 || 3 | # = | ##| || 5 || 5 || 2:
H }* £ | #3 | #4 ..., | 3 2 | OF | 3 | #: ſº
# 5 || 3 | #| | | # #: ºff 3 || 3 | *
HUNDRED OF LONSDALE–Continued. <d o
*==== H =
•= , =====
* -ºm
*-
---
*-m-mºs.
**mmºn
-* *
Jno. Tompson, Rob. Banz jun., John Gibson, Tho. Parker, Mr. –
Newton of Whittingham, Tho. Parker, same as Edward
North [or Corthe]. . -
John Calvert . e wº tº e o tº dº tº e º I e g c | < e º e º s w w e I 1 1 ... . ... 1
Rd. Reder, Chr. Skerrowe, Rd. Hynde, Elenor Singlet, Lce.
Parkinson, Chr. Thornton, John Proctor, Geoffrey Batson,
Tho. Widder, Wm. Thornton, Chr. Battye, same as Jno.
Calvert. - * *mº
Summary for the Hundred of Lonsdale . º * 3 7 || 33 2 || 35 | 57 | 57 || 329 || 25 || 30 | 13
HUNDRED OF SALFORD. *m. -- - *-*-* A sº-sº sºm-º:
Edmund Trafford, Esq., to furnish 1 2 || 10 || 10 || 10 8 8 8 3 3
Jno. Rodcliffe, Esq. tº g tº & g º te 1 2 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2
Rob. Barton, Esq. & g tº gº tº 2 2 2 2 2 2 2 I 1
Rd. Holland, Esq., Fraunce Holt, Esq., John Bothe, Esq.-
Same as Rob. Barton.
Edmund Prestwich, Esq., a light horse furnished . o g tº g º I
Chr. Anderton, Rob. Worsley, Edwd. Rawstorne,—same as
Edmund Prestwich.
Charles Holte, Esq. . º te e g © ſº & to tº º 1 ... 1. 1 | 1
Edmd. Ashton, Esq. . e g º º & ſº & tº ſº º 1 ... . ... l I
Wm. Hilton, Esq., Jas. Browne, Esq., Ralph Ashton, Esq., T. -
Greenhalghe, Esq., Alexr. Barlowe, Esq.-same as Edmund
Ashton.
John Orrell, Esq. * & & g & gº g & ... 1 1 1. 1 I I 1 Harq.
Geo. Halghe & wº ... . . . . . . . . . 1. l 1 1 a sº 1
Jas. Bradshaw, Allen Hilton, Edmd. Heywood, Roger Browne,
Rd. Leaver, Geo. Longworth, same as Geo. Halghe.
Bradshawe of Bradshawe . * tº & * e tº e s = º ºs e o I e g a 1 1. 1 1 | ... 1 | ... l
Alexr. Warde, Wm. Holland, Tho. Massie, Rob. Holte, Chas.
Radcliffe, Edw. Butterworthe, Cuthbert Scofild, Arthur
Ashton, Tho. Lees, Jas. Ashton, Geo. Gregory, Ellis Ayns-
Worth, Tho. Crompson,-same as Bradshawe.
!
Geo. Pylkinton to furnish . e & ge t e º ... . ... | 1 | ... * * * * * * tº a s a 1 1.
Jas. Hulme tº ſº * * * : * * tº º tº I l | l I 1 1.
Rd. Radcliffe I 1 I I 1. 1 | 1
Tho. Chatterton . I 2 || 2 || 2 || 1 || 1 || 1
Dame Eliz. Biron e * º & e • * a * * * : * * * | * * * I 2 2 2 I I
Wm. Tatton, Esq. * g * {} º º e & • * * . . . . . 1 ... 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1 || 1
Adam Hill . * & & tº * * * | * s = | s e e T 1 | 1 | . . . . ... I
Tho. Ashton | I 1. 1. I 1 l
Morris Ashton 1 I 1 I I 1 I
Wm. Ratcliffe . o 1 1 l l I I
Laur. Tetlowe, Wm. Hyde, Rob. Hyde, Ralph Holme, Tho.
Byron, Rob. Holme, Tho. Willott, Alex. Rigbie, same as
Wm. Ratcliffe. r
John Sharples . & º º & g g g e * g a g º e i tº ſº tº e e s ] tº º º 1 || 1 || 1 | . . . . ... 1.
John Marten, John Bradshawe, Edwd. Hopkinson, Wm. Brown,
Hugh Westmough, Edmd. Brodhurst, Roger Hyndley, Geo.
Lathom, Tho. Valentyne, John Parr, Otes Holland, Edmd.
Sceadie, Hy. Tonge, Robert Hodge, Jno. Nowell, Ralph
Cowoppe, James Anderton, John Robert, Rd. Meadowcroft,
Thos. Aynsworth, Edmd. Taylor, Rob. Barlowe, John Wright,
Rd. Livesay, Huan Worthington, Tho. Buckley, Rob.
Haworth, Edmd. Whytehead, Jno. Chadwick, Hy. Sledge,
Ellis Chadwick, Rob. Butterworth, Peter Heywood, Roger
Hoult, Wm. Bamford, Thos. Barlowe, Wife of Edwd. Symond,
Roger Lay, Fras. Barlowe, Thurstan Hayner, Rob. Blaguley,
Anthy. Elcock, Tho. Birch, Edwd. Saddell, Rob. Skelmesden,
Tho. Nicholson, Fras. Pendleton, Humphrey Houghton, Wm.
Blaguley, Geo. Birch, Geo. Prowdlove, Geo. Holland, Laur.
Robinson, Nichs. Mosley, same as John Sharples.
Adam Hill . g e & e • . e ſº c e e g & © tº º a e 1 ... 1. 1 ... . . . . . ... I
Jas. Guillame, Jas. Chetame, Edw. Holme, same as Adam Hill. -
The Town of Manchester were contented of goodwill to furnish
and have in readiness e gº g [º ū e e tº e º & ſº & 6 ... 6 | . . . . ... . ... 2 2
24 30 58 28 |1|18 |1|18 |123 || 33 || 35 | 97
2
Summary for the Hundred of Salford
Sum of all the furniture within County of Lancaster . 18 108 || 159 |224 |213 |490 |490 |490 | 163 173 ||365
|Men furnished by the Statute, and of goodwill, the number of 1230.
CHAP. XIII. Çür £igturn of £antaghire. - 175
A CERTIFICATE of a general Muster taken within the County of Lancaster in August aforesaid, 16th Eliz. Reg. (1574), wherein
was certified, over and beside the 1230 men furnished by force of the Statute for armours, the number of 2375 able men furnished by
the countrey [which be armed]; and also the number of 2415 able men to serve her Majestie, and which be unarmed. [Total, 6020.]
HUNDRED OF [WEST] DERBY.
Archers, being able men furnished by the country with bows, arrows, steel caps, sword, and dagger g ſº tº 140 560
Bill men, being able men furnished by the country with jack, Sallet, bill, sword, and dagger e . g º 429
Archers, being able men unfurnished & * & tº g ſº § * & te 140 530
Bill men, being able men unfurnished . s . & tº g º * * * * gº 390
- HUNDRED OF LEYLAND.
Archers, being able men furnished by the country with bows, arrows, steel caps, Sword, and dagger g e e 59 259
Bill men, being able men furnished by the country with jack, Sallet, bill, Sword, and dagger ſº e e * 200
Archers, being able men unfurnished tº º tº g º is . g ſº & g 40 130
Bill men being unfurnished & tº te & wº ſº * * wº º e & 90
HUNDRED OF BLACKBURN. -
Archers, being able men furnished by the country with bows, arrows, steel caps, sword, and dagger sº * e 126 377
Bill men, being able men furnished by the country with jack, Sallet, bill, Sword, and dagger º e g * 25].
Archers, being able men unfurnished & tº º * g te & 20 422
Bill men being able unfurnished 402
HUNDRED OF LONSDALE.
Archers, being able men furnished by the country with bows, arrows, steel cap, sword, and dagger † * • 107 n. 441
Bill men, being able, furnished by the country with jack, Sallet, bill, Sword, and dagger . ſº tº & § 344 ſ
Archers, being able men unfurnished * g * } gº 9 g g e g & !?!. 343
Bill men, being able unfurnished tº * t e e gº º ſº g sº tº 267
HUNDRED OF AMOUNDERNESS.
Archers, being able men furnished by the country with bows, arrows, steel cap, sword, and dagger e $ 108 260
Bill men, being furnished by the country with jack, Sallet, bill, Sword, and dagger * * tº & & 152 O
Archers, being able unfurnished tº & e ſº º º & * * gº e I20 579
Bill men, being able unfurnished * tº & g & e ſº & tº e tº 459
HUNDRED OF SALFORD. -
Archers, being able men furnished by the country with bows, arrows, steel cap, sword, and dagger * g * 60 354
Bill men, being able furnished by the country with jack, Sallet, bill, sword, and dagger . * & g g 294
Archers, being able unfurnished . & e • & tº iº & 72 38}
Bill men being able unfurnished . * º ſº e º * te º tº e & 309
Sum Sum Total of the men furnished with arms at the charges of the country . t • * g 2375
l Sum Total of the able men, and being unarmed, certified in this general muster º tº re & 2495
Under that there was certified, also of labourers or pioneers unarmed . se * * 600
[Fol. 20.]
In the same year that these returns were made, a declaration was promulgated of the ancient tenth and
fifteenth chargeable throughout the county, of which the following is a summary:-
[Harl. MS. Cod. 1926.] .
“A Declaration of the Ancient Tenth and Fifteenth chargeable within the county of Lancaster, with a note also of the Deduc-
tions set down by Sir Peter Leighe and Sir Peter Gerrard, Knights, Thomas Kighley, Esq., and others Commissioners for the same
Deductions, by virtue and force of a Commission to them directed in the twenty-fifth year of the reign of King Henry VI. (1446-7),
with a note also of the remaine and declaration.of the certain tenth and fifteenth now payable and chargeable through every hundred
and part of the said county of Lancaster [xvi. Eliz. Reginae, 1574].
SUMMARY.
HUNDRED. Tenth and Fifteenth. Deductions. Remainder.
£ S. d. £ S. d £ S. d
Leyland Hundred & g e e 36 10 4 5 17 8 30 12 8
Blackburn º & e te e 48 8 6 1] 3 0 37 5 6
Salford g * & * * 48 9 4 6 15 0 41 14 4
[West] Derby . ſº © e * 125 8 7 18 19 1 I06 9 6
Amounderness & e g º 66 17 0 I6 8 8 49 17 8
Lonsdale gº tº e º * 50 18 2 12 3 10 39 4 0

“Sum of the ancient tenth and fifteenth within the county of Lancaster, as the same is before particularly set down
and expressed, amounteth unto the sum of . © g & e ſº e & £376 11 11%
“Whereof there was deducted by force of a commission under the great seal of England, directed to the commissioners
before named, bearing date as before, the sum of g tº d e • * § * 71 7 34
“And so remaineth payable to the Queen's Majesty for a tenth and fifteenth within the said county of Lancaster,
the sum of * * g e o º g tº g ſº as g e #305 4: 8
While these financial arrangements were proceeding, the county was much agitated by religious feuds;
and the ministers of religion were not only threatened with but actually exposed to the dagger of the assassin."
The queen at this time, and indeed from the period of her coronation, manifested much regard for the
arts of that celebrated astrologer Dr. Dee, afterwards warden of the collegiate church of Manchester, which
* Warden Herle's letter to the lord treasurer on the wrongs of Manchester College, 1574.
176 Qſìje 39tstory of 3Lancashire. CHAP. XIII.
living he procured of her majesty's grace and favour. The doctor had been patronised by her royal brother
Edward VI. ; but Elizabeth, more munificent at least in her promises, assured him that where Edward had
“given him a crown, she would give him a noble.” The queen, in her condescension, frequently visited the
astrologer at his house at Mortlake; and as he was employed to determine what would be the most fortunate
day for her coronation, and to counteract the ill effects which it was apprehended would befall her, from a
waxen image of her majesty, stuck full of pins, having been picked up in Lincoln's Inn Fields, it is not
improbable that the “virgin queen” consulted the doctor, as other virgins in humbler stations consult “wise
men,” upon the subject of her matrimonial projects.
The voluminous correspondence of Dr. Chaderton, bishop of Chester, preserved by Mr. Peck in his
Desiderata Curiosa, extending from the year 1580 to 1586, details with considerable minuteness the proceedings
of the ecclesiastical commission in the county of Lancaster during that period, and the object of which com-
mission was to prevent the inhabitants from degenerating again into popery, as well as to punish those
recusants, particularly of the leading families, who refused to adhere to the reformed religion. These objects
are stated in the following
“LETTER FROM THE LORDS OF THE QUEEN’s CouncIL TO HENRY HASTINGS EARL OF HUNTINGTON
[Lord-President of the North].1
“1. After our right hartie comendations unto youre good lordship. …
“2. Upon notice given unto her Majestie of the falling awaie in matters of religion in Sundry of her subjects of good qualitie
& others within the countie of Lancaster; for the avoiding of further inconveniences like to grow thereof, yf speedye redresse be not
had, shee hath thought meete at this present to graunt out the ecclesiasticall commission for the diocesse of Chester, directed to
our verie good lords the lord archbishoppe of that province, the earl of Darbie, your lordship, the lord bishoppe of Chester, and
others; whereby you are auctorised to proceed with the Saide parties Soe fallen away for the reducinge of them to conformitie, or to
punishe them accordinge to such direction as you shall receive by the Saide commission warranted by the lawes of the realme :
“3. And forasmuch as this infection, the longer it shall be suffered to reigne the more yt will be spred & become dangerous;
therefore yt behoveth that all expedition be used in the execution of the said commission; which, being presentlye sent to the earle
of Darbie, her majesties pleasure is,
“4. That youre lordship, with the Saide earle of Darbie & bishoppe of Chester, doe forthwith consider & take order for the
time & place of your firste meetinge ; & thereof to geve knolege unto the rest of the commissioners, that they may be readie to meete
& assist you at the time & place to be appointed.
“5. And as this defection is principallie begunne by Sundrye principall gentlemen of that countie, by whom the meaner sort
of people are ledd & Seduced ; Soe it is thought meter that in thexecution of the commission you begin first with the best of the
said recusants. For that we suppose that the inferior people will thereby the Soner be reclaymed & brought to obedience; which,
in oure opinions, will be not a little furthered, yf you shall, at the place of youre assemblies, cause some learned minister to preach
and instruct the saide people duringe the time of youre staye in those places.
“6. And soe referinge the care and consideration of all other thinges that maye appertaine to the furtherance of this her
majesties service to the good consideration of you the Commissioners, wee bid you right hartelie farewell. From the court at None-
such, the x. of June 1580.
“T. Bromley, Canc. J. Sussex Ro. Lecester James Crofte
W. Burgheley A. Warwicke Henry Hunsdon Fra. Walsingham
E. Lincoln F. Bedford Chr. Hatton Tho. Wilson
“To our verie good lord the earle of Huntington.”
This despatch is followed by two others; the first of which (June 29, 1580) directs that no question
whether this ecclesiastical commission supersedes the former shall prevent them from proceeding with their
duty; and the latter (July 3) directs that the penalties against the recusants for not coming to church shall be
advanced, and that the chief of their number shall be imprisoned in Halton Castle, in the county of Chester,
with the diet to be allowed them after the manner of the Fleet prison in London. The next communication
from the lords of the council (July 15) signifies, that the queen having granted the fines laid upon certain
popish recusants in Lancashire to Mr. Nicholas Annesley, and he having been obliged to take out a distringas
on their lands and goods, the commissioners are to see that the said distringas is duly executed by the sheriff,
and the forfeitures paid to Mr. Annesley. This is followed by a letter from Lord Burghley to Dr. Chaderton
(July 23) touching the ill state of Lancashire at the time when the high commission first repaired thither, in
which it is announced that the queen has sent a letter of thanks to the earl of Derby for his zeal in endeavour-
ing to reform the county; his lordship, at the same time, expresses his wish to obtain a proper person to whom
he may entrust the care of the tenants of Manchester College; and after giving the bishop hopes that his
first fruits may be remitted, he gives him this statesman-like advice as to his behaviour both to great men and to
poor —“And nowe, good my lorde, that you are once entered into the way of reformation, remember S. Paul,
tempestive, intempestive. Somewhere you must be as a father, somewhere [as] a lord. For so the diversitie of
your flocke will require. With the meanest sort, courtesie will serve more than argument; with the higher
sort, auctoritie is a match.” From a subsequent despatch (July 26) from the lords of the council to the
bishop of Chester, it appears that the people in Lancashire had much disputing about the bread of the holy
sacrament—whether it should be common bread or of the wafer kind; on which point their lordships decided
that the communicants in each parish should use that which they liked best till the parliament had taken
further order in the matter; to the parliament was also referred the question whether fairs and markets should be
continued on the Sabbath days or they should be discontinued. In a letter of July 31 from Sir Francis Walsing:
1 Park's Desid. Cur. p. 85.
CHAP. XIII, (Tije Đigtorg of £ancashire. 177
ham to the bishop of Chester, the queen's resolution was communicated to deal with the recusants, and it was
at the same time stated that good preachers were wanted in Lancashire. In a despatch of the 29th of Sep-
tember, from the queen to the bishop of Chester, his lordship and the dean and chapter are required to furnish
out three light horsemen for Ireland; and, at the same time, the rectors of Wigan, Winwick, and Middleton
are required by the council to furnish out three more light horsemen, being each one. Two following despatches
of November 12 required that certificates of the recusants should be returned from Lancashire, if not as
perfect as possible yet as perfect as they can be made. The prevailing evil of young gentlemen being educated
abroad in popish countries is dwelt upon, and divers gentlemen in the diocese are required to be called before
the bishop, and to give bonds for calling their children home in three months. In a communication from
Edwin Sandys, lord archbishop of York, to William Chaderton, lord bishop of Chester, an account is given of
an “exercise” lately held in Yorkshire, probably on account of the great earthquake of the 6th of April 1580.
In the following year (1581), the prosecutions against the popish recusants were still more strongly
pressed by the lords of the council; and Sir John Southworth, Lady Egerton, James Labourne, Esq., John
Townley, Esq., Sir Thomas Hesketh, the lady of Mr. Bartholomew Hesketh, Campion the jesuit, James Aspden,
John Baxter, Richard a priest, William Wickliffe, and Richard Massey, are mentioned as of that number; all
of whom were placed in confinement, and subjected, as the correspondence sufficiently indicates, to heavy
penalties and to personal privations. As is usual in times like these, pretenders to supernatural gifts were
abroad in the county; and one Elizabeth Orton made no small stir by two feigned visions which she pretended
to have had, and accounts of which were spread abroad amongst the Catholics and other ignorant people, to
abuse the vulgar, and unsettle the minds of the well-affected. This unfortunate girl was publicly whipped
(July 22), in order to extort from her a confession; and the experiment at first succeeded; but she afterwards
retracted her declaration made before the bishops and the other ecclesiastical commissioners: that confession
was, however, thought too valuable to be lost, and, notwithstanding her retractation, it was publicly read in
the parish church, and in other places where the fame of her visions had been divulged. In addition to
Halton Castle, in the county of Chester, the new Fleet at Manchester was used as a prison for the recusants;
and Sir John Southworth was kept in confinement there, under the wardship of Mr. Worsley, an active public
officer. In the course of this correspondence, the lord president of the north (Dec. 7) commends the design
of the bishop of Chester to live at Manchester, and wishes him to set up a lecture there, to commence every
morning at six o'clock, and every evening at seven o'clock. Notwithstanding all this vigilance, the lords of
the council still complained to Mr. Richard Holland, high-sheriff of the county (Dec. 14), that though an act
had been passed in the last session of parliament for all recusants to be proceeded against at the quarter-
sessions, yet nothing was done in Lancashire; and they required the justices of the peace to meet and cause
the rural deans, ministers, and churchwardens, to present all such recusants upon oath at the next quarter-
sessions, or, in case of neglect, to return the names of all absent justices, and other defaulters, to the privy
council."
Amongst the most distinguished of the recusants was Father Edmund Campion, the Jesuit already men-
tioned, who, after having passed through the counties of York and Lancaster, disseminating the Catholic
doctrines, was apprehended in London, and committed to the Tower, where, by the operation of the rack, he
was brought to divulge the names of the persons by whom he had been entertained, and in which number the
following inhabitants of Lancashire appear:—“Talbot of , Esq.; Thomas Southworth, Gent. ; Bar-
tholomew Hesketh, Gent.; Mrs. Allen, Widow; Richard Hawghton, of the Park, Gent. ; Westby, Gent. ;
Rygmaiden, Gent.” It further appeared that he was in these places between Easter and Whitsuntide
last past ; and that during that time he resided in Lancashire, at Mr. Talbot's and Mr. Southworth's. On
the 12th of November, Campion was brought to trial in London, along with seven other persons, before Sir
Christopher Wray, the lord chief justice, charged with conspiring the death of the queen's majesty, the over-
throw of the religion now professed in England, and the subversion of the state. On the trial a letter was
produced, written by Campion, the prisoner (in 1581) to a person of the name of Pound, a catholic, in which
the writer said, “It grieveth me much to have offended the Catholic cause so highly, as to confess the names
of some gentlemen and friends in whose houses I have been entertained: yet in this I greatly cherish and
comfort myself, that I never discovered any secrets there declared, and that I will not, come rack, come rope.”
Though the prisoners, particularly Campion, defended themselves with great ability, they were all found guilty,
and the Jesuit, and three of his fellow-prisoners—namely, Thomas Cotton, Robert Johnson, and Luke Finley—
1 The parliament of January 1581, declared the crime of ab-
solving or withdrawing others from the established religion high
treason, and adjudged that the penalty of Saying mass should be
increased to two hundred marks and one year's imprisonment ; of
hearing mass, to one hundred marks, and imprisonment for the
same period; that the fine for absence from church should be £20
a lunar month ; and if extended to a year, the offender to find two
sureties for his future good behaviour in £200 each ; and, to pre-
vent the concealment of priests as tutors or Schoolmasters in private
families, every person acting in Such capacity, without the appro-
bation of the ordinary, was liable to a year's imprisonment, and the
person who employed him to a fine of £10 per month.-23 Eliz. c. 1.
* A letter from Campion to the privy council, offering to avow
and to prove his Catholic religion by disputation, before the doctors
and masters of both universities, concludes in a strain worthy of an
ancient martyr: “If,” says he, “these my offers be refused, and
my endeavours can take no place ; and I, having run thousands of
miles to do you good, shall be rewarded with rigor, I have no more
to say, but to recommend your case and mine to Almighty God,
the searcher of hearts, who send us of his grace, and set us at ac-
2 A.
178 QThe #igturn of £ancashire. CHAP. XIII.
were executed.' The lords of the council, in a despatch to Henry Stanley, earl of Derby, and William
Chaderton, lord bishop of Chester, thanked them in the queen's name for their brisk proceedings against the
recusants, and desired them to go on; thanking them also for removing such as were prisoners at Chester to
the new Fleet in Salford, and expressing their sorrow that priests were lurking about the country under the
name of schoolmasters, whom they wished to have apprehended, and brought to punishment. In another
despatch from the archbishop of York to the bishop of Chester, the bishop is required to reform Mr.
Wigington, a young puritanical minister, or, if that is not practicable, to prevent him from preaching in his
diocese. The expense of supporting the recusant prisoners could not be defrayed out of the monthly forfeitures
levied in the diocese on the recusants, and therefore the collection of eight pence per week in every parish,
allowed by the statute of the 14 Eliz. for the relief of other poor prisoners, was ordered by the lords of the
council to be converted to this use, and letters were written to the earl of Derby, the bishop of Chester, and
the justices of the peace in Cheshire and Lancashire (June 24, 1582), to give orders for that collection to be
made forthwith. It was also ordered that Sir Edmond Trafford, the late sheriff of Chester, should pay the
sum of one hundred marks, levied by way of fine in his shrievalty on James Laborne, Esq., a recusant, to
Robert Worsley, keeper of the new Fleet, in Manchester, for the diet and other charges of the priests and
other poor recusants in that prison. To save charges, Sir Francis Walsingham, in a letter to the earl of
Derby (June 30), requested that the most inoffensive poor recusants, as women and such like, might be dis-
charged upon their own bonds. The collection of this parish assessment, though amounting to only eight
pence Weekly for each parish, appears to have been attended with great difficulty; to obviate which, Mr.
Worsley transmitted a proposal to government (Dec. 3), wherein he offered, if he might have a year's col-
lection beforehand, to erect a general workhouse for the whole county of Lancaster, there being then none in
existence. This scheme the lords of the council strongly approved, and recommended that Mr. Worsley's
proposal should be acceded to, both in Lancashire and in Cheshire; but the undertaking seems to have failed.
Lord Burghley, and the other lords of the council, in a letter (Jan. 18, 1583) to the earl of Derby and
the bishop of Chester, thanked them in the queen's name, for the pains they had taken in the examination of
James Labourhe, a layman, about whom they had ordered the queen's council to consider how far he might
be punished for his lewd speeches, which punishment speedily ensued. Labourne, having been brought to
trial, was convicted and executed, on a charge of having conspired to subvert the queen's government, and to
overturn the religion of the state. The lords of the council, though not disposed entirely to liberate either
Sir John Southworth, or John Townley, Esq., from their confinement in the Fleet at Manchester, submitted
to the earl of Derby and the bishop of Chester (Feb. 22), whether they might not relax the severity of their
imprisonment. The expense of the prison establishment in Manchester at this time was so considerable, that
Mr. Worsley brought in a bill (July 6) for the diet of sixteen recusants to the amount of six hundred and fifty
pounds, which neither the fines, which were very large, nor the collections of eight pence per week from the
parish, which were very small, and deemed to be illegal, were equal to pay. The justices of Lancashire,
therefore (Oct. 7), made an offer of a year's contribution to meet this expense, which example the lords of the
council urged the justices of Cheshire to imitate. At this time many Jesuits and other priests were abroad in
the county of Lancaster, the antidote for which pest, the lord-president of the council of the north conceived,
was best to be found in zealous Protestant preachers, and, in particular, he hoped a good one would be placed
at Preston, which, being a central part of the county, it was desirable should be well supplied.
At the same time, Archbishop Sandys composed a monitory letter, which he addressed to Dr. Chaderton,
and the other bishops of his province, urging them to take the sword and armour of the Spirit, to defeat the
common enemy, and to defend the faith even to blood and death. The fibres of superstition had, he said,
taken deep root in the land; to these he urged them to apply the sharp sickle of God's word, to build up the
Walls of Jerusalem, and with all earnestness to shake down the cruelty and tyranny of Antichrist, to check the
stubborn and contentious enemies of the church with a rod of iron, and to restrain them from infecting the
Sound with their leprosy.”
An obscure letter, from Sir Francis Walsingham to the earl of Derby (Nov. 30), communicated the fact
that Mr. Cartwright, a puritan minister, and a number of popish rescuants, were in Lancashire, for remedy of
which he recommended good preachers. In this letter it is stated, that Somerville entertained the disloyal in-
tention of assassinating the queen, and that, in order to avert the consequences of his treason, he had feigned
himself to be mad, but it appeared on examination that he was not labouring under any mental distraction.
The parochial weekly collection, though yielding little revenue, was still pressed on by the lords
of the council; and those gentlemen who opposed it, especially Mr. Bold, were ordered (Dec. 2) to be sent
up to London, to enter into recognisances to appear before the council, as well as those who subscribed
their names both for it and against it, and those who promised to join with the earl of Derby and the bishop
Cord, before the day of payment. To the end at last we may be to 1543, according to the same authority, there were executed fifty-
friends in heaven, where all injuries shall be forgotten.”
* According to the Theatrum Crudelitatis Hæreticorum in
4ºglid, there were executed of priests and others of the popish
religion, in Queen Elizabeth's reign, from 1570 to 1587, thirty-one
priests and thirteen laymen. In Henry VIII.'s reign, from 1535
two priests, including one cardinal, nine abbots, and three priors;
besides thirty-two Franciscans, that died in several prisons; in
addition to which, there were six laics, One of whom was Sir
Thomas More, late lord chancellor, and another the countess of
Salisbury. * Libr. Gony, and Caius Con.
CHAP. XIII. - Ǻr 3%istorm of 3Lancashire. 179
of Chester, but yet forsook them. Ferdinand Stanley, Lord Strange, in order to show his zeal in the prosecu-
tion of recusants, addressed a letter of congratulation (Dec. 16) to the bishop of Chester on the good opinion
entertained of his behaviour by the lords of her majesty's council, and also on the good opinion they enter-
tained of his father the earl of Derby.
As a further act of grace to Sir John Southworth, the lords of the council addressed a letter to the earl
of Derby (23 Feb. 1584), the bishop of Chester, Sir John Byron, and Sir Edmund Trafford, signifying their
wish that Sir John might, at the instance of his son, have the liberty of certain walks which he had formerly
been permitted to take, but which Mr. Worsley had refused to grant him, on account of Sir John not being
present at the saying of grace, and refusing to read the Bible. By another despatch (March 22), permission
was granted to Mr. Townley, a prisoner for religion at Manchester, to repair to London for medical advice,
at the request of Dean Nowel, Mr. Townley's brother-in-law. In a despatch (March 22) to the earl of
Derby and the bishop of Chester, the lords of the council signify that there being several popish priests
now prisoners at Manchester for perverting the queen's subjects from their allegiance, it is thought good that
they should be tried for the same, in terrorem, at the next assizes; and that lay gentlemen recusants, their
prisoners, be made to pay for their diet, or be put upon prison allowance. The zeal of the council against the
recusants was not confined to one sex; for, in a letter (May 2) addressed by Sir Francis Walsingham to the
bishop of Chester, his lordship is desired to cause Mr. Bartholomew Hesketh's wife, a busy recusant, to be
apprehended. He is also desired to inquire into the reason why “Sir John Southworth is minded to disinherit
his son,” and to take care to prevent his so doing. Robert Dudley, earl of Leicester, in a letter to the bishop
(June 5), expresses his approval of the recognisance of Sir Thomas Hesketh, and intimates his intention
shortly to visit his cousin, the earl of Derby. It appears that some apology was thought necessary to be
made by her majesty's council to the ecclesiastical commissioners for the removal of Sir John Southworth and
Mr. Townley from Manchester to London; their lordships therefore stated to the earl of Derby and the bishop
of Chester that these gentlemen, having paid their fines according to the late statute, could not any longer remain
justly committed, and moreover that they would do less mischief in London than in Lancashire; but that if the
commissioners thought it absolutely necessary for the ends of good policy, or for their own sake, they should
be sent back to Manchester. To turn the disloyalty of the subject to the advantage of the state, the lords of
the council wrote to the sheriffs and justices of Lancashire, requiring the recusant gentlemen in that county to
set forth certain horsemen for the queen's service, or, in lieu thereof, to pay a composition in money of twenty-
four pounds for every horseman; and the queen, whose zeal for the military service was not less active than
that of her ministers, addressed a letter to the sheriff of Lancashire, ordering him to levy two hundred foot-
men in that county for the Irish service, without parade ; the said men to be ready at three days' warning,
to march under Edmund Trafford, Esq., whom she had appointed to be their captain, all furnished with calivers,
corslets, bows, and halberts, to which were afterwards added swords, daggers, doublets, hose, and cassocks.
In a letter from the lords of the council (June 25, 1585) to Ferdinand Stanley, Lord Strange, the bishop of
Chester, and the justices of Lancashire and Cheshire, it is signified that several libels having been formerly
published against the queen, and now a vile book [“Leicester's Commonwealth”] against Robert Dudley, earl of
Leicester, the queen cannot forbear rebuking some for their great slackness in not suppressing the former libels,
and requiring them to be more diligent in taking care of this last ; both the queen and they knowing the earl
of Leicester to be clear of the aspersions contained in it.
The last public letter in the series of the Chaderton MSS. is from the queen to the bishop of Chester
(Jan. 23, 1586), signifying that her majesty, being resolved to assist the Hollanders against the king of Spain
with a thousand horse, besides foot, and the clergy, in case the king of Spain should prevail, being in as great
danger as herself, she had thought good that they should provide some of the said horse, or allow twenty-five
pounds for each horse and furniture to buy them abroad; the bishop of Chester, and his clergy in particular,
to fit out as many horse as directed in the following schedule, sent with the queen's letter:—
SCHEDULE.
1. The bishoppe, 3; 2. the deane, 1 ; 3. the chapter, 2; 4. Edward Fleetwood, parson of Wigan, 1 ; 5. John Caldwell, parson
of Wynwicke, 2.; 6 Edward Ashton, parson of Middleton, 1 ; 7. John Nutter, prebendarie parson of Sefton, of Aughton, and
Bebington, 1 ; 8. Rd, Gerrard, prebendary in Southwell, and parson of Stopport in Cheshire, 2—total, 13.
In the Harleian collection of manuscripts" in the British Museum, we find a number of original papers
relating to “recusants and others,” from which are made the following extracts relating to the county of
Lancaster:— - - -
PAPERS RELATING TO RECUSANTS AND OTHER RELIGIOUS CRIMINALS.
(Originals.)
This ys the names of all the bishops doctors priests that were prisoners in the Fleet for religion synce the fyrste yere of the
Fo. 76. raygne of quene Elizabethe, A.D. 1558.
gît.] [There are 18 entries on this paper, of which the 17th is Mr. Prestwick gentleman 16 of December 1562. [Fol. 7 b.
1 Cod. 360.
180 Qſìje #t3tory of 3Lancagüirº. chap. xiii.
Persons to be sought after.
[The names of these persons are written under each other in one column, and opposite most of the names are remarks stating the
quality and condition of the person, his haunts, etc. The following appear to be Lancashire gentlemen, but there are no remarks :]
The sonne of St Ths. Gerrard; Bouth, genº; Stanley, gen”.
[The above seem to have been suspected of implication in Babington's Plot; for under one remark is written, “whereof the servants
of Babington can further shewe.”]
10 Sep. 1586.
A Collection of sundry persons as well Priests as other ill affected to the State.
N.B.-There is no Lancashire gentleman under this head; but in the two following, which are lists of names, and styled in the
Catalogue, “Advertisements touching others,” and “discovering more of the same Gang,” there are these :–
Mr. Charnock of Ashby; Mr. Hilton of Hilton Park; Sr. John Ratclyffe, a daungerous Temporiser; Burton, a Priest remayning
with the wyfe of Sr. Thomas Gerott's [Gerard's] base son, being a Fleming born, and a very great harborer of the ill-affected gent. in those
parts, she remaineth for the most part at Checkerbent in the house of Ralfe Holme, a Recusant ; Mr. Standish of Standish ; Mr.
Haughton of Haughton Tower; Henry Davys, sometime very inward with Shelley. [Fol. 14.]
Names of such as are detected for receiptinge of Priests, Seminaries, etc., in the County of Lancaster.
This appeareth by the presentment of Ralph Serjeant, Churchwarden of Walton in Ledale.—Jane Eyves of Fishwick, widow, receipt the
Sr. Evan Banister, an old Priest ; Sr. Richard Banister, an old Priest, is receipted at the house of one Carter, mere to Runcorn
Boat.
This appeareth by the presentment of the Vicar of Garstang.—One named little Richard receipted at Mr. Rigmaden's of Weddicar, by
report.
This appeareth by the presentment of Law : Procter, sworne man of Brihilt.—One Duckson, an old priest, continueth in Samlesburye by
common Report. -
This appeareth by the presentments of the Curate of Burnley, and the Churchwarden of the Church.-Robt. Woodroof, a seminary Priest,
receipted at the house of Jenet Woodroof of Banktop in the parish of Burnley within this half-year, by common report.
This appeareth by the presentment of the Vicar of Whalley.—John Lawe, a seminary priest, receipted in divers parts of Lancashire as
specially in the parishes of Ormskirk, Preston, Blackburne, and Whalley.
This appeareth by the presentment of the Parson of Wigan —
1. Henry Fairehurst of Winstanley, yeoman; 2. Thomas Orrell of Winstanley, yeoman; 3. Thomas Berchall of Billinge yeoman;
4. James Winstanley of Billinge, yeoman; 5. John Roby of Orrell, yeoman ; 6. Henrie Laithewaite of the Medowes, gent. ; 7.
John Culchethe of Abram, gent. ; 8, 9. Myles Gerrerde of Ince, esquire, and his wyfe.
These Persons are presented (by great and Common fame and reporte) to be receiptors of Priests hereafter named, viz. –
Bell; Burton ; Mydleton ; Alex. Gerrard, brother to Miles Gerrard of Innce, esquire ; James Foord, son to
Alex. Fourd of Swindley, gent. ; John Gardner, brother to Robt. Gardner of Aspull, gent. ; Alex. Markland, son to Matthew
Markland of Wigan; Pilkington, born in Standish Parish ; Worthington, born in the same parish ; Stopforth.
This appeareth by the presentment of the Curate of Chippin.—Guile, a Priest receipted at the house of James Dewhurst of Chippin by
the report of John Salesburie of Chippin. -
This appeareth by the presentment of the Vicar of Deane.—Divers Priests harboured at the house of Ralphe Holme of Checkerbent.
This appeareth by the presentment of the Curate of Sephton.—James Darwen, a seminary priest, receipted at the house of Richard Blundell
of Crosby esquire by common report. -
This appeareth by the presentment of the Vicar of Kirkham.—Richard Cadocke a seminary priest also Deiv. Tytmouse conversant in the
Company of two widows—viz, Mistress Alice Clyfton and Mistress Jane Clyfton, about the first of October last 1580, by the report of
James Burie.
This also appearethe by the presentment of the Vicar of Kirkham.—Richard Brittain, a priest receipted in the house of William Bennet of
Westby about the beginning of June last, from whence young Mr. Norrice of Speke conveyed the said Brittain to the Speke, as the
said Bennet hath reported. .*
The said Brittain, remayneth now at the house of Mr. Norrice of the Speke as appeareth by the deposition of John Osbaldston
(by common report).
Fo. 32 b. This appeareth by the presentment of Tho. Sherples:—James Cowper, a seminary priest, receipted relieved and maintained at
the Lodge of Sr. John Sowthworthe in Samlesburie Park by Mr. Tho. Sowthworth, one of the younger sons of the said Sr. John.
And at the house of John Warde dwellinge in Samblesburie Parke side, And the said Priest Sayeth Mass at the said Lodge and at
the said Warde's house. Whither resorte, Mr. Sowthworthe, Mistress Ann Sowthworth, John Walmesley, servante to Sr. John
Sowthworthe, Tho. Sowthworthe dwelling in the Park, John Gerrerde, servant to Sr. John Sowthworthe, John Singleton, John
Wrighte, James Sherples junior, John Warde of Samblesburie, John Warde of Medler, the elder, Henry Potter of Medler, John
Gouldon of Winwick, Thomas Goulden of the same, Robt. Anderton of Samblesburie and John Sherples of Stanleyhurst, in
Samblesburie. .
This appeareth by the presentment of Tho. Sherples.—At the house of William Charnocke of Fulwood, gent., was a Mass done on our Lady
day in Lent last by one Evan Bannister and these persons were at it : William Harrison of Fulwood and his wife, Richard Harrison
and his wife, James Sudale of Haighton, Thomas Sudale and his wife, George Berley and his wife, Jeffraye Wirdowe of Owes Walston
and his wife.
This also appearethe by the presentment of Tho. Sherples.—At the house of James Sherples in Samblesburie was a Masse done on Candle-
mas day by One Henry Dueson alias Harry Duckesson. And these persons were at it—viz. John Sherples of Stanleyhurst in Sambles-
|burie and his wife, and his son Thomas and his daughter Ann, and Rodger Sherples and his wife and Richard Sherples and the wife of
Harry Sherples and the wife of Hugh Welchman and Thomas Harrisson and the wife of Thomas Welchman the elder, The wife of
John Chitome Robt. Blackehay Thomas Duckesson of Houghton James Duckeson The wife of Harrie Bonne.
Fo. 33. — At the Lodge in Samblesburie Parke there be masses daily and Seminaries diverse Resorte thither, as James Cowpe,
Harrisson Bell and such like, The like unlawfull meetings are made daily at the house of John Warde by the Park side of Sambles-
burie all whiche matters, masses, Resorte to Masses, receiptinge of Seminaries, will be Justifyed by Mr. Adam Sowtheworthe Thomas
Sherples and John Osbaldston.
“ Diocese of Chester.
Com. Lanc. Cuthbe Clifton, Esq. Thomas Dicconson, gent.
Amoundernes John Westone, Esq. Obstinate Willm. Hesketh, gent.
Deanery. Alexander Houghton, gent. George Walton, gent.
Leonard Houghton and his wife Thomas Coston and his wife
Mres Burton, widow Wm. Hardock junior and his wife
Thomas Burton, her son Wm. Easton, gent.
Wm. Skellicorne, gent., and his wife John Singleton, gent.
Bridgett Browne, widow George Houghton, gent.
Garge Clarkson, gent. James Eues
John Hothersall, gent. Richard Eues
CHAP. XIII.
I 81
The #istorm of 3Lancašijire.
George Butlor
John Hothersall, Husbandman
Thomas Walmesley
Rogerson, widow, and her children
Robte Midgeall, gent.
Arthur Houghton, gent.
Wife of George Sothworthe, gent.
George Copell, gent., and his wife
Thomas Cowell -
Thomas Cradon
Blackburn Deanery
John Sothworth, knight, and the lady his wife
Thomas Sothworth, his son and heir
Com. Lanc. ) John Sothworth, gent., Sonne to John Sothworth,
Blackburn knight
Deanery | Anne Sothworth, his daughter
T)orothie Sothworth, his sister
John Talbott, Esq.
John Townley, Esq., and his wife
Tho. Catherall, Esq., and his wife
Henrie Lowe junior.
Margaret Lowe, widow
James Hargreues
Lucie Townlie
John Yate, son to John Townley, Esq.
Bllen Bannister, wife of Robte Banester, gent.
Anne Townley, wife of Henrie Townley, gent.
Jenet Paslowe, wife of Francis Paslowe, gent.
John Rishton, gent.
John Rishton, Husbandman
Randle Ferrand
Richard Wodde
Richard Hinley .3%
Conformable
Obstinate
+
Wm. Rishton, gent., and his wife
Conformable Ellen Rishton, widow
Gillet Rishton, gent, and his wife
Lun. Whittacre, gent.
.# * **
Warrington Deanery
Hamlet Holcrofte, gent, and his wife
Dame Margaret Atherton, widow
Tho. Mollinex, gent.
Matthewe Traves
John Mollinex, “schalerner”
Elizabeth Hesketh, widow
Eliz. Sutton, widow
Eliz. Highley, gone
Stanley, widow, and Anne her daughter
One Bineston, her servant
Wm. Fletcher
Kat. Marsh, wife of Humfrey Marsh
Henry Richardson
Conformable Edward Chawner
Manchester Deanery
Wm. Hulton, ofthe Park, Esq.,and his wife, obstinate.
[Several names follow, belonging to the county of Chester, after
which are—J
Com. Lanc.
Item
Obstinate
‘f John Sothworth, knight
ºf Cuthbert Easton, esquire
ºf John Talbot, esquire
ºf John Townley, esquire
ºf Thom. Caterall, esquire
ºf Alexander Houghton, gent.
ºf Thomas Mollinex, gent.
ºf John Hothersall, gent.
* Matthewe Travis, Yeoman
John Whitmor, esquire
Wm. Houghe, esquire
Com. Cest.
“Of all the rest these twelve" are mor opinions of longest obstimacy against Religion, and if by your Lordships' good wisdoms they
could be reclaimed we think the other would as well follow their good example in embracing the Queen's Majesty's most godly proceeding
as they have followed their evil example in “contemprising” their duty in that behalf.
[Indorsed]
Feb. 9th [or 7th] 1575.
In the Elizabethan age, when taxation had not attained its present perfection, the counties were called
upon to supply their monarch with the Substantial Viands which graced even the breakfast table of her
majesty.” The county of Lancaster, by an agreement entered into at Wigan by the earl of Derby, the bishop
of Chester, the Lord Strange, and a number of the justices of the peace there assembled, compounded, on behalf
of the inhabitants of the county, for the provision of oxen and other cattle for her majesty's household; and
Sir Richard Shirburn, and Alexander Rigby, Esq., on their resort to London during the ensuing term, were
authorised to ratify the agreement with “Mr. Treasurer, Mr. Controwler, and Mr. Cofferer,” with whom it
was agreed, that the county of Lancaster should yield yearly for that purpose forty great oxen, at fifty-three
shillings and fourpence apiece, to be delivered at her majesty's pasture at Crestow. This grave matter being
* There are only eleven names here.
* EXPENSES OF QUEEN ELIZABETH's TABLE.
The Queen's Majesty booke
signed with her hand.
The Queen's Majesty's diet,
as she hath been daily served.
BREAKFAST.
Cheat and mancheat . e º * e 6d. Cheat and mancheat, 8 & © & g 8d.
Ale and beer . tº º g tº g 3%d. Ale and beer, 6 gallons g e º . 10%d.
Wine, 1 pint g e & g 7d. Wine, 1 pint . & g g iº ſº 7d.
Flesh for Pottage. JFlesh for Pottage.
Mutton for the pot, 3 St. e e gº g 18d. Mutton for the pot, 4 st. tº tº 2s.
Long bones, 2 St. º * o gº g 6d. Long bones, 4 St. 4 * tº 12d.
Ise bones, 2 St. . gº e ſº fº tº 2d. Ise bones, 3 st. . g e º & te 3d.
Chines of Beef, 1 st. & & g ſº g 16d. Chines of beef, 1 st. tº e g g * 16d.
Short bones, 2 St. ſº * ſº e g 4d. Chines of Mutton, 2 st. . e º * tº 2s.
Short bones, 1 st. º * } * gº g 2d.
Chines of beef, 1 stone . & g t & 14d. Chines of veal, 3 St. te g g * ſº 6d.
Conies [rabbits] 2 Stone g g s g 8d. Chickens for gruel, 2 . tº e & & 7d.
Butter, 6 dishes e e tº & e 6d. Weal, 2 stone . gº * * tº * 2s.
Chines of beef, 1 [? stone] . & & © 16d.
Butter, 2 lb. . B & g ge º 8d.
Sum 8s. 63d. (rather 7s. 83d.) - Sum 13s. 11}d.
Surcharged 4 5s. 5d.
ELIZABETH R.
182 (The #istory of £amcagüirº. CHAP. XIII.
adjusted, the following award was made from each hundred, in ratification whereof the undersigned affix their
hands:– -
[West] Derby Hundred, £26; Amounderness, £16 : 10s. ; Lonsdale, £16 : 10s. ; Salford, £16 : 10s. ; Blackburn, £16 : 10s. ;
Leyland, £8. Total, £100,—If the sum shall come to more or less, the same to be increased or abated after this rate.
H. Derby. W. Cestr. Fer. Strange. -
Richard Shirburne Richard Brereton James Ashton Christopher Anderton Tho. Eccleston
John Byron Richard Holland Edw. Tyldesley Robert Worsley Nicholas Banester
John Radcliffe Wm. Farington Richard Ashton Tobert Langton John Bradley
For the Provision of Oxen for the Queen's Majesty's Household.
These contributions, which were reduced to a money-charge, having subsequently fallen into arrear, a
purveyor was sent down by government to execute the commission, by seizing the oxen in the county; but the
earl of Derby, aided by his treasurer, took order for enforcing the payment of the composition, and in any case
where the money could not be had, the commissioners were directed to take in lieu thereof, “for her mate
provision, Bacon, and such lyke thinges.” The exactions of these purveyors “for her majesty's household and
stables” had become so notorious, that in the year 1590 a commission was instituted in Lancashire, to investi-
gate these delinquencies, and to certify the same to the queen's government.
A manuscript book of correspondence, relating to the lieutenancy of the county of Lancaster, from the
year 1582 to the end of Queen Elizabeth's reign, is deposited in the Harleian collection in the British Museum,'
and serves to show with how much diligence the affairs of the queen were administered during that period.
These documents, though many of them highly interesting, and calculated to shed much light upon the early
history of the county, are too voluminous to be comprised in the limits of a county history, and can therefore
only be interwoven into the general history in abstract. In folio 54 of this manuscript, a despatch appears
from the lords of the council, signed, Tho. Bromley, Canc., E. Lyncoln, R. Leicester, W. Myldmaye, F. Bedford,
Chr. Hatton, J. Crofte, Wm. Burghley, F. Walsingham, R. Sadler, addressed “to the justices of the peace
inhabiting within the hundred of Salford,” apprising them that her majesty's service in Ireland requires to be
supplied with fifty soldiers from this county, and directing that the levies be made, so that the men may be at
Liverpool ready to embark on the 15th of December, prepared with such arms and accoutrements as are
necessary for their complete equipment, or that the sums necessary for that purpose be forthcoming. The
number of men to be provided from the respective hundreds in the following quotas:—
“Men to be made forth of these hundreds following:—Derby hundred, 10% men; Lonsdale, 9% men;
Salford, 9 men—£38 : 6s. ; Blackburn, 9% men; Amoundernes, 7 men; Leylond, 4% men.—Total 50.
On the receipt of this mandate, a letter was addressed by “Ric Holland, Vic.” from Heaton House,
summoning Sir Edmund Trafford, and the other justices of the county, to meet at Ormskirk, on Saturday 1st
of December (1582), to take the necessary order for carrying her majesty's commands into effect.”
This series of official documents illustrates the correspondence contained in the Chaderton MS. and here
we find the proceedings adopted against the recusants, as detailed in a despatch of the 20th of June, wherein
the sheriff and justices of the county of Lancaster are directed to proceed against the principal offenders,
forbearing for the present to prosecute those of the meaner sort, but to call before them, at their quarter-sessions,
recusants, being of the quality of gentlemen and upwards, and ladies and gentlewomen widows, and to take
bonds and securities of them for their personal appearance at the next assizes for the county of Lancaster, that
conviction and judgment may ensue. To guard against remissness in the discharge of this duty, they are
warned to take care to answer her majesty's expectations, and the trust committed unto them, seeing that the
judges of assize have received directions to examine and take account of their doings, and to report the same
in writing to the council. .
In the following year (1583) her majesty's service in Ireland required that Lancashire, instead of fifty, should
send two hundred able-bodied men to that country, to be in readiness to meet at Chester on the 10th of
September, to embark from thence for Ireland.” To obviate a complaint that had been made to the queen and
her council, to the effect that the men, when placed under the command of strangers, were not treated with
“that love and care” that appertained to them, her majesty by her letters recommended that they should be
placed under the son of Sir Edmund Trafford, and that they should be furnished with “swords and daggers,
and likewise convenient doublets and hose, and also a cassock, or some motley or other sad green colour or
russet.” The hundred of Salford furnished one-fourth of the whole number, and the letter of Sir Thomas
Preston, Summoning the levy to muster at Preston, required that they should come provided with weapons as
follows:—“20 wº calivers, 10 wºn corslet and pikes, 10 win bows and arrows, and 10 wºn halberds or good
black bills.” The urgency of the occasion is strongly indicated by the Superscription of the letter, which runs
thus:—“Deliver this Letter to the next justice of peace of the hundred aforesaid, and he to break it open, and
aft" the perusal thereof to be sent from one justice to another, that no delay be in the service wººin contained.”
In the year 1585-6, the county was visited by a famine, and by a murrain amongst cattle, which were
felt with great severity in the north ; and her majesty, in her royal Solicitude, directed the lords of the council
* Codex 1926. See also Mr. Harland's Lancashire Lieutenancy under the Tudors, etc. (vols. 49 and 50 of the Chetham Society's
series). * Cod. 1926, fo. 72 b. - * Harl. MSS. cod, 1926, fo. 103 b.
CHAP. XIII. (Liſt fligturn of £ancagüirº. 183
to address a letter to the sheriff and justices of the peace in the counties of Lancaster and Chester," requiring
that the gentry of those counties should strictly abstain from killing and eating flesh in the time of Lent, and
other prohibited days, not only from the effect that the abstinence of their own families would produce, but
from the benefit of the example amongst those of a meaner sort. These orders were addressed to the sheriff of
Lancashire by the lords of the queen's council, and were generally diffused throughout the county.
The violation of the Sabbath had long been complained of in the county of Lancaster, and one of the
objects of the ecclesiastical commission sent down by Queen Elizabeth into this county was to remedy these
enormities. For the same purpose a letter was promulgated by the magistrates of the county, signed by Jo.
Byron, James Asshton, Edm. Hopwood, Robte Worsley, Ric. Shirborn, Bryan Parker, Th. Thalbotte, Tho. Talbot,
Edm. Trafforde, Ric. Brereton, John Bradshawe, J. Wrightington, Nicholas Banester, Ric. Asshton, Alex. Rigbie,
and Edm. Fleetewoode.
The complaint was, that the Sabbath was profaned by “Wakes, fayres, markettes, bayrebayts, bull baits, Ales, Maygames,
Resortinge to Alehouses in tyme of devyne Service, pypinge and dauncinge, huntinge and all maner of Vnlawll gamynge.” For
reformation whereof it was ordered to give in charge at the quarter-Sessions to all mayors, bailiffs, and constables, as well as to other
civil officers, churchwardens, etc., to suppress by all lawful means the said disorders of the Sabbath, and to present the offenders at
the quarter-sessions that they might be dealt with for the same according to law. It was also directed that the minstrels, bearwards,
and all such disorderly persons, should be immediately apprehended and brought before the justices of the peace, and punished at
their discretion ; that the churchwardens should be enjoined to present at the sessions all those that neglected to attend divine
service upon the Sabbath day, that they might be indicted and fined in the penalty of twelve pence for every offence; that the
number of alehouses should be abridged, that the ale-sellers should utter a full quart of ale for a penny, and none of any less size,
and that they should sell no ale or other victuals in time of divine service; that none should sell ale without a license; that the
magistrates should be enjoined not to grant any ale-license but in public sessions; and that they should examine the officers of the
church and of the commonwealth to learn whether they made due presentment at the quarter-sessions of all bastards born or
remaining within their several precincts; and that thereupon a strict course should be taken for the due punishment of the reputed
parents according to the statute; as also for the convenient keeping and relief of the infants.”
This rigid moral discipline was much complained Öf by some of the gentry, and still more by the labouring
classes; and when, at a subsequent period, King James, in his progress, visited the county of Lancaster, he not
only rescinded the orders, but he founded upon that act his book of Sabbath sports, the consequence of which
was felt for succeeding ages; but of this more in its proper place.
The plots against the queen, and against the established Protestant church of England, both foreign and
domestic, awakened in the nation a spirit of fervent loyalty; and an association of Lancashire gentlemen, on
the model of the earl of Leicester's association, was formed for the defence of Queen Elizabeth against the
machinations of Mary Queen of Scots, and the other enemies of the state. In the declaration promulgated by
this association” the doctrine of the divine right of kings and queens is strongly insisted upon, and the
associators pledged themselves in the most solemn manner to defend the queen against all her enemies, foreign
and domestic ; in confirmation of which they took a solemn oath upon the holy Evangelists, and in witness
whereof they affixed their hands and seals as follows:—
Hen. Derby Adam Langhe Wilm. Massye John Grenalghe
W. Cesáreº Robt. Charnocke Edward Tarbucke Henry Banestr
Fer. Stranghe Richard Ormeston Peter Stanley Nycholas Banestr
Rychard Sherburne Willm. Holton Thomas Talbott Thomas Lancaster
John Radclyffe William Thorneborowe John Bradley Rychard Eltonheade
Thomas Houghton Edward Stanley John Culcheth Robt. Holt
Edward Butler Edmund Chaderton John Ryshley Edward Chaderton
Rychard Ashton Gilbt Langtree George Ireland Frances Tunstall
Edward Norres John Croft Charles Holt Willm. Skillicorne
Thomas Holcroft Thomas Leighe Thomas Goodlowe Edmund Prestwiche
Edward Osbaldeston Edward Braddle Thomas Morley John Singleton
Rychard Holland John Wrightington Thomas Ashton Henrye Butler
Rychard Boolde Edward Rawstorne Alexander Barlowe Thomas Brockholes
Edward Scaresbrecke James Browne Fraunces Holt John Massye
Thomas Hesketh Barnabie Kilchin James Ashton William Redman
John Holcroft Edward Halsall Henry Eccleston Alen Holton
Richard Mollineux Edward Tildisley Alexander Rigbye - Willm. Kirbye
Rauffe Ashton Henry Stanley senior James Anderton William Radclyffe
Robt. Langton Willm. Farrington Barth. Hesketh Edward Worthington
Myles Gerrard Henrye Stanley Lawrence Ireland Thomas Woofall
Willm. More John Byrome Thomas Lathome
Upon this declaration, an act of parliament was framed, by which, after reciting that Sundry wicked plots
had lately been devised and laid, as well in foreign parts as within this realm, to the great endangering of her
majesty's royal person, and for the utter ruin and subversion of the commonwealth, it is ordained, that if at any
time, after the end of the present session of parliament, any open invasion or rebellion should be had or made
of her majesty's dominions, or any act attempted leading to the hurt of her majesty's royal person, by or for
any person that shall or may pretend title to the crown of this realm, or if any thing be compassed or imagined
tending to the hurt of her majesty's royal person, by any person, or with the privity of any person that shall
1 A letter of similar import addressed by the queen to the sheriff of Lancashire is contained in the Chaderton MS.
* Harl. MSS. cod. 1926, fol. 80. 3 Harl, MSS. cod, 2219.
184 (The #istory of £attragijire. CHAP. XIII.
or may pretend title to the crown, then, by her majesty's commission under her great seal, the lords and others
of her majesty's privy council, and such other lords of parliament, to be named by her majesty, as with the
said privy council shall come up to the number of twenty-four at the least, shall, by virtue of this act, have
authority to examine all such offences, and thereupon to give sentence or judgment as upon proof shall appear
to them meet. -
Mary Queen of Scots had long been a prisoner in England; and it required no sagacity to perceive that
this act was passed specially to bring her and her adherents to trial before a new species of tribunal. The
occasion was not long wanting. Babington's conspiracy, formed in the year 1586, which had for its object to
assassinate Elizabeth, and to elevate Mary to the throne of England, followed so speedily upon the passing of
the new act as to raise the surmise that the plot had been arranged to promote the interest of Mary's enemies,
rather than to advance her cause. Babington found little difficulty in organising a band of assassins. At the
head of these fanatics stood John Savage, a man of desperate courage, who wished to monopolise the glory of
despatching the heretical queen; next in order followed Babington himself, and he had associated with him
Barnwel, a man of noble family in Ireland; Charnock, a gentleman of Lancashire; and Abington, whose father
had been cofferer to the queen's household. Walsingham, the queen's secretary, whose vigilance never slept,
and who had engaged Maud, a Catholic priest, and a party in the plot, as his spy, became perfectly acquainted
with all the proceedings of the conspirators; and when the proofs against Mary had sufficiently accumulated,
she was arraigned and brought to trial, October 12, 1586, charged with having, with others, compassed the
queen's death, and the subversion of the established religion of the realm. After much hesitation, she con-
sented at length to plead, and declared herself not guilty. Amongst the forty commissioners appointed, under
the authority of the great seal, to sit in judgment in this case, were Sir Thomas Bromley (lord chancellor), the
earl of Shrewsbury, the earl of Derby, Lord Grey de Wilton, and Sir Ralph Sadler, chancellor of the duchy of
Lancaster, with Sir Christopher Wray, the lord chief justice, and four other judges.
The correspondence of Babington and Mary, carried on in cypher, and proved by her secretaries Nau and
Curle, was laid before the commissioners, from which it appeared that Babington had informed her of the
designs laid for a foreign invasion, the plan of an insurrection at home, the scheme for her deliverance, and the
conspiracy for assassinating Queen Elizabeth, by “six noble gentlemen,” all of them his private friends, who,
from the zeal which they owed to a Catholic church and her majesty's service, would undertake the tragical
deed. To this, Mary replied that she approved highly of the design, that the gentlemen might expect all the
rewards which it would be in her power to confer, and that the death of Elizabeth was a necessary circumstance,
before any attempts were made either for her own deliverance or for an insurrection." It was also proved that
she had allowed Cardinal Allen, a native of Lancashire, but long resident in Rome, to treat her as queen of
England, and that she had kept up a correspondence with Lord Paget, for the purpose of inducing the Spaniards
to invade this kingdom. It was further proved that Cardinal Allen, and Parsons the Jesuit, had negotiated
by her orders, at Rome, the conditions for the transfer of the English crown to the king of Spain, and for dis-
inheriting her heretical son, James VI. of Scotland. The trial, as might have been expected, terminated in
the conviction of Mary; and on sentence of death being passed upon her, the queen of England hesitated long
whether to inflict the utmost sentence of the law or to extend the royal clemency to her unfortunate kins-
Woman ; but the importunity of parliament, and probably the queen's own secret inclinations, at length decided
that Mary should be executed; and the earl of Shrewsbury, the earl of Kent, the earl of Derby, and the earl
of Cumberland, attended by two executioners, were sent down to Fotheringhay, charged with the melancholy
duty of seeing the sentence of the law carried into effect. Mary received the fatal intelligence without dismay,
and suffered on the scaffold (February 8, 1587) with a degree of heroism which proved that she considered
herself rather as a martyr to the holy Catholic religion than as a traitor to the state.
While these transactions were pending, the alarm of Spanish invasion spread through the kingdom. In
a letter from the earl of Derby, as lord-lieutenant of the county of Lancaster, to the deputy-lieutenants, they
Were Warned that advices had been received from sundry parts beyond the seas, of foreign forces assembled to
invade this realm, and it was the special command of her majesty that order should be taken in every part of
the county, that the principal inhabitants should furnish themselves without delay with armour and weapons,
and take care that all their tenants and followers be also provided and in readiness to repel the common enemy.
By another despatch from his lordship, of the same date, addressed to the justices of the county, they are
charged to provide their proper quota of horsemen, to be ready at the shortest notice to resist the invaders.
At this critical period it became essential that the magistracy of the county should be sound and well affected;
and although the earl of Derby, in his confiding temper, did not conceive any material change to be necessary,
the lord-treasurer, on the suggestion of the Rev. Edward Fleetwood, rector of Wigan, and others, caused a new
commission to be issued, in which the names of several fresh magistrates were introduced, and a considerable
number of those who were thought favourable to the recusants omitted. The consequence was, that at the
Summer assize in 1587 no fewer than six hundred recusants were presented on oath, eighty-seven of whom
Were indicted, and a notification was made of twenty-one vagrant priests usually received in Lancashire, and
* State Trials, vol. i. p. 123.
CHAP. XIII. Qſìje 3%istorm of 3Lancašijire. - I S5
twenty-five notorious houses of receipt for them.' The puritans, though pursued with rigour, had become ex-
tremely obnoxious to the high-church party, and the works against the prelacy, clandestinely issued from the
press in Manchester at this period, under the assumed name of MARTIN MARPRELATE, tended to aggravate the
difference and to excite the animosity of the queen and her court.
The ambition of Philip, king of Spain, and his anxiety again to introduce the Roman Catholic religion
into England, had involved the two countries in active hostility, and preparations had for some time been
making by the Spanish government to invade this country. In the midst of these preparations and alarms, the
queen of England and the king of Spain contemplated the negotiation of a peace; and the earl of Derby, Lord
Cobham, Sir James Croft, and others, were appointed commissioners on the part of England, to meet certain
Spanish commissioners at Bourbourg, near Calais. The negotiations continued for some time, but without any
relaxation on the part of Philip for attack, or of Elizabeth for defence. The haughty Spaniard, having at length
become impatient, ordered the “Invincible Armada,” by which presumptuous name his fleet was distinguished,
to prepare for sea; and although Santa Crux, by whom the fleet was commanded, objected to the danger of
navigating a narrow and tempestuous sea, without the possession of a single harbour capable of affording
shelter, and the duke of Parma, the commander of the Spanish land-forces, wished to reduce the port of
Flushing previously to the departure of the expedition, their prudent counsel was rejected, as was also the
advice of Sir William Stanley, who had devoted himself to the Spanish cause, and had sacrificed his patriotism
and his integrity by the sale of Deventer and the transfer of its garrison to the enemy.” The preparations of
Spain were beyond all former example, and the invading fleet consisted of seventy-two galliasses and galleons,
forty-seven second-rate ships of war, and eleven pinnaces, carrying two thousand eight hundred and forty-three
pieces of ordnance, eight thousand and ninety-four seamen, and eighteen thousand six hundred and fifty-eight
soldiers; while the English fleet, by which this immense armament was to be resisted, consisted only of thirty-
four ships of war, and a number of vessels principally furnished by Opulent individuals and by communities,
but by no means equal in weight or appointment to those to which they were to be opposed. In this emer-
gency the queen issued a proclamation to Henry earl of Derby, as lord-lieutenant of the county of Lancaster,
urging his lordship, and the county over which he presided, by every consideration of social and domestic
security, to call forth the united energies of the county, in common with the country in general, to resist the
meditated attack upon the throne and the altars of their country.
Similar proclamations were sent to the lords-lieutenant in all the other shires, and the country was
animated to a degree of enthusiasm never before witnessed. The beacons in every part of the county were
ordered, by a mandate from Ferdinando, Lord Strange, to be kept in continual readiness; and it appears, from
a note of taxation in the archives of the hundred of Salford, that the following charges were made for watching
the beacon at Rivington Pike, from the 10th of July to the 30th of September 1588:—Manchester division,
£3: 8:10%; Bolton division, £2: 6:10%; Middleton division, £2: 6: 10%—Total, £8: 2: 8}.
Amongst the precautionary measures for the defence of the kingdom was one of considerable rigour, which
the necessity of the times seemed to suggest. A letter was addressed to the earl of Derby and the other lords-
lieutenant of counties and commissioners of musters, requiring that because the enemy made his boast that he
should have assistance of the Catholic subjects of this land, that all the horses belonging to the recusants should
be seized, and committed to the custody of Some well-affected gentlemen, their neighbours, that their services
might be used if there should be occasion ; and in the meantime that they should be kept and maintained at
the charge of the owners, to be restored again when the danger was past. This document recommends that
care should be taken of the beacons, and that persons who spread false rumours and reports should be arrested
and committed to prison; and that assistance should be given to the clergy, whose special province it was to
find out a certain number of horse and foot, who were to meet for the guard and defence of her majesty's
person, because it might fall out that they should stand in need of men to ride their horses and to wear their
armour. Amongst other places mentioned for the landing of the invading army was the Pile of Fouldrey, in
the county of Lancaster, the place where Martin Swart landed with Perkin Warbeck in the reign of Henry VII. ;
and the reason of this arrangement was, that it was the best harbour for large shipping in all the western coast
of England, that the deputy-steward of the Pile was Thomas Preston, a Catholic, and that Dr. Allen, who was
born at no great distance, and had infected the inhabitants with his tenets, was likely to direct the attention
of the Spaniards to this harbour.” The magistrates, gentry, and freeholders of the county were required to
meet Lord Strange at Preston on the 13th of July, in order to complete the preparations for the defence of
the country; and in the mandate issued by his lordship, in virtue of orders from the queen, the very significant
words are used of “Fayle not at youre vºtermost peril.” By means of these vigorous preparations a force was
collected of one hundred and one thousand and forty men, trained and untrained, in the different divisions of
the kingdom, including thirteen thousand eight hundred and thirty-one pioneers, lances, light horse, and
petronells; of which Lancashire and Cheshire furnished the following numbers:–
* See letter of Edward Fleetwood, dated 7th September, in Cotton MSS.
* The advice of Sir William was to take possession of Ireland, as a preliminary measure for the conquest of England.
3 Lansdowne MSS. cod. 56, endorsed “Touchinge a place called the Pille, in Lancashire, a dangerous place for Landinge.”
2 B
186 (Iſiſe £istory of 3Lancašijire. CHAP. XIII.
“An Abstract of the Certificates returned from the Lieutenants of the able, trained, and furnished men in the several counties,
upon Letters from the Lords, reduced into bands under Captains, and how they were sorted with weapons, in April A.D. 1588 —
Warre.2
1588 | Trained ºf Men Shot i Corslets i Bows | Bills
Iancastre and CCC)
| Untrained 1170 700 Calivers 300 80 20 | | Lances 20
COO COO
CO Light Horse 50
The provision of these fis not certified
cºo
COO
ºf Trained ºf 2 Counties
. I’8,II].62 +rov,
Cheshire Un- 21.89 | º º 500 80 80 ºf Lances 30
trained - Light Horse 50
€0.9
“The Abstract of the numbers of every sort of the armed men in the Counties through the Kingdom, taken A.D. 1588:—
Counties | Able men | Armed | Trained | Untrained | Pioneers | Lances | Light horse | Petronels
Lancashire 0000 | 1170 II 70 0000 | 0000. 064 265 | 000
Cheshire 0000 i 218.9 2189 0000 0000 020 050 0.91
In the midst of these preparations, the Spanish Armada sailed from the Tagus, and after encountering
various disasters entered the English Channel, and formed in the shape of a crescent, the horns of which lay
some miles asunder. The sight was grand beyond conception, but the events which soon after followed were
infinitely more gratifying." The command of the English fleet had been confided to Lord Howard of Effing-
ham, the lord high admiral, whose want of naval skill was supplied by the earl of Cumberland and the Lords
Henry Seymour, Thomas Howard, and Edmund Sheffield, with Sir William Winter, Sir Francis Drake, Sir
Bobert Southwell, Sir John Hawkins, Sir Henry Palmer, Sir Martin Furbisher, Sir George Reeston, and others.
By this able council the plan of operations was determined upon, and before the Spanish fleet had been two hours
arrayed in order of battle, the cannonade was commenced by the English with a spirit which showed that the
determination existed to save England, or, if she was to fall, to let her fleet be the first sacrifice. A succession
of engagements took place, in all of which, though none of them decisive, the advantage was on the side of
England, till the finishing blow was given by a masterly manoeuvre, practised on the 29th of July 1588. On
that memorable night the sea on a sudden became illuminated by the appearance of eight vessels in flames,
drifting rapidly in the direction of the armada, which was then moored off Calais. A loud cry of horror burst
from the Spaniards on the appearance of these engines of destruction; and in the midst of the panic they cut
their cables and ran out to sea, inflicting upon each other more damage than they had hitherto received from
their intrepid enemies. The fire-ships burnt harmlessly on the edge of the beach, but a furious gale blowing
from the west, the armada was dispersed along the coast from Ostend to Calais, and the guns of the British
fleet completed what the skill of their manoeuvres and the fury of the elements had begun. The want of
ammunition compelled the English admiral to return to port, otherwise the Spanish fleet would have been
annihilated. The shores of Scotland and Ireland, in which direction the enemy steered, were covered with
the wrecks of their vessels, and strewn with the dead bodies of their mariners; and when the duke of Medina,
the successor of Santa Crux, terminated his unfortunate voyage in the port of St. Andero, he acknowledge
the loss of thirty ships of the largest class and 10,000 men. - -
The English nation was filled with exultation by this signal deliverance and most memorable victory.
The expressions of thankfulness were not confined to the heroes by whom it was achieved, but rose to that
Being without whose providential aid all their efforts must have been in vain. The nation, wishing to bear in
perpetual memory “this signal deliverance from the malice, force, and cruelty of their enemies,” celebrated a
general thanksgiving by royal proclamation, which was announced to the county of Lancaster by the earl of
T]erby in the following terms:– *
“After my very hearty commendations: Whereas I am credibly informed that it hath pleased God to continue his goodness
towards our prince, church, and country, as in the late overthrow of our enemies taken upon the coasts of Ireland, it may appear
by this calendar here inclosed,—I have thought it expedient, in respect of Christian duty, we should fall to some godly exercise of
thanksgiving for the same by prayer and preaching. Willing you so to commend the business to the clergy of your hundred in
their several charges, as our God, by mutual consent, may be praised therefor. And this not to be omitted nor delayed in any wise,
but to be put in execution at or before the next Sabbath. And thus, desiring God to bless Her Majesty with long life and continual
victory over all her enemies, bid you farewell. Lathome, my house, this 24th of September 1588.-Yours assuredly,
- ** H. DERBY.
“To my very loving friends, Sir John Byron, Knight, one of my deputy-lieutenants for Lancashire, and to the rest of the
justices of peace.” [Here follows a list of the “Ships and men, sunk and drowned, killed and taken, upon the coast of Ireland,”
on the side of the Spaniards.”]
Although the pope, Sextus W., had fulminated a new bull of excommunication against Elizabeth, absolving
her subjects from their allegiance, and had published a crusade against England, with plenary indulgences to
* From a manuscript in the Harleian Coll. Cod. 286, it would details, and we are unable to reconcile them. The document, how-
appear that the first notice of the sailing of the armada from Spain ever, is curious, and as such will be inserted in the West Derby
was communicated to the government by Homfraye Brooke, a Liver- Hundred History, under the head of Liverpool.
pool merchant ; but the dates do not correspond with the official * Harl, MSS. cod. 1296, fo. 88,
..CHAP. XIII. Qſìje #istorm of £ancashire. 187
any one that engaged in the invasion, and although Dr. Allen had received a cardinal's hat to qualify him as
legate to England, yet the Catholic subjects of the queen, both in this and other counties, remained faithful to
their allegiance, and were amongst the most active in equipping ships and placing them under Protestant
commanders to repel the invaders." Amongst a number of others, Sir Thomas Gerrard, Sir Thomas Wayasour,
and Sir Charles Blount, distinguished themselves by their zealous and disinterested service in their country's
CallS6.
In Ireland the war seemed interminable, and hence, in the following year (1589), an order was issued,
through Sir Richard Sherburne and Sir John Byron, to the magistrates of Lancashire, requiring them to levy
another hundred soldiers, in addition to those before sent, to proceed to Ireland, properly furnished and equipped,
to assemble at Chorley, and to proceed from thence to their destination. In a subsequent letter, the gentry and
principal freeholders of the county are advertised that all the demi-lances and light horse within the respective
hundreds are to appear before the lord-lieutenant for his inspection; which mandate awards to each the
number he is to furnish. It appears that in the former year the inspection did not take place, and the earl
of Derby, in a communication of the 19th of February, notifies that it is the queen's pleasure that they should
be furnished and equipped, and ready at one hour's warning, and that the money assessed for the levies should
be paid into the hands of his receiver, Richard Holland, Esq., at his house at Heaton.
The dominion of the law was at this time so little regarded in the county of Lancaster, that the baron
of Newton assembled on Sunday evening his tenants and retainers, to the number of eighty, in front of the
house of Mr. Hoghton of Lea, in the parish of Preston, and challenged him to combat, ostensibly because he
had impounded a number of cattle belonging to the widow Singleton, but really to avenge an ancient feud.
Finding himself menaced in his own mansion, he sallied forth at the head of a band of thirty men, when a
regular engagement ensued, in which Mr. Hoghton and Richard Bawdwen, one of his followers, were left dead
on the field. The earl of Derby, as lord-lieutenant of the county, to vindicate his authority, caused a watch
to be instituted day and night that the offenders might be detected and brought to justice; and a species of
magisterial assize was appointed to be held at Preston, to inquire into the circumstances of the riot and
murders. The magistrates could only pursue one course, and that was to direct that all the parties engaged
in the homicides should be indicted at the ensuing assizes on a charge of wilful murder. The earl of Derby,
foreseeing the consequences that would ensue, addressed an earnest petition to Lord Burghley, the queen's
high-treasurer, beseeching his lordship to use his influence to obtain a pardon from the queen, as very many of
the ruder sort engaged in the riot could not read, and being unable to take the benefit of clergy must lose
their lives, while those who were of more distinction must be burnt in the hand, and thereby a dangerous
quarrel would arise amongst the gentlemen of the county, of an extent and duration that would involve the
most serious consequences. This application, which was accompanied by a petition from forty-seven of the
offenders for the queen's pardon, and was supported by a petition from the widow of Mr. Hoghton, seems so
far to have prevailed that the murder was compromised by the heir of the deceased gentleman receiving from
the principal offender, as a compensation for his father's death, the valuable estate and manor of Walton-le-
Dale, the future scene of one of Cromwell's most splendid victories. Some documents on this subject, cha-
racteristic of the times of Elizabeth, will be found in their proper place in the Hundred history.
In the preceding century, a less fatal but more licentious outrage was perpetrated upon one of the prin-
cipal families of Lancashire: “On the Monday next after the feast of St. James the Apostle,” as the official
documents express it (i.e. July 30, 1436), William Pulle, of Liverpool, in the county of Lancaster, and of
Wyrall, in the county of Chester, gentleman, with a great number of others, repaired to the house of Isabell,
the widow of Sir John Boteler of Bewsey, and feloniously and most horribly ravished the said widow, and
carried her off in a state of nudity, except “her kirtyll [petticoat] and her smokke,” into a wild and desolate
part of Wales, for which offence he was indicted at Lancaster; but of this also more in its proper place.
The loyal conduct of the Catholics, when this country was menaced with invasion, did not stay the per-
secutions to which they were exposed; a commission under the great seal of England was issued in 1591, for
the apprehension and discovery of seminary priests and Jesuits, and for reducing the recusants to conformity.
To give effect to this commission, the churchwardens in the various parishes of Lancashire were required to
meet the magistrates, and to bring with them lists in writing, containing the Christian and surnames of all the
householders in their respective parishes, both men and women, with all their inmates above the age of sixteen
years, certifying whether they repaired to the church to hear divine service, that, in case of neglect, they might
be dealt with accordingly. The rigorous proceedings against the Catholics, not in this county only, but in
the country generally, may be inferred from the facts mentioned by Challoner, who states, that for the vague
offences of harbouring priests, or of receiving ordination beyond the seas, or of admitting the supremacy of the
pope, and denying that of the queen, sixty-one priests, forty-seven laymen, and two gentlewomen, suffered
capital punishment, by laws recently enacted, and unknown to the ancient constitution of the country; and
that in one night fifty Catholic gentlemen, in the county of Lancaster, were suddenly seized and committed to
prison, on account of their non-attendance at church. As a test of their fidelity to the reformed faith, all the
1 Stowe's Ann. p. 747.
188 (The #istory ºf 3Lancašijire. CHAP. XIII,
justices of the peace were required openly and publicly to take the oath of Supremacy in special sessions, and
an order from the lords of the queen's council, of the date of the 22d of October 1592, addressed—“To our
verie Lovinge frends the highe Sheriff & Custos Rotulorum of the County of Lancaster Sº John Byron &
St Edward Fytton, knights, Richard Asheton, Richard Brereton, & Richard Holland esquiers, and to every of
them ;”' directs that sessions of the peace shall be holden before the 20th day of November next ; at the accus-
tomed places in the county, at which every justice of the peace present shall take the said oath, and that any
person having hitherto filled that office, who shall refuse or forbear to take the oath, shall be removed out of
the commission of the peace; or any justice of the peace who does not repair to the church or chapel where
the common prayer is used, or whose wife, living with her husband, or son and heir, living in his father's
house, or within the county where his father dwells, refuses or does not usually go to church, the husband or
father of such recusant shall cease to exercise the office of justice of the peace during the time of such recusancy.
The high-sheriff and other persons named in the writ of Dedimus Potestatem are themselves first required to
take the oath, and then to administer it to the justices, saving that the lords of parliament are excepted.
The puritans, at least that part of them called Brownists, who deemed every species of communion with
the established church unchristian, fared little better than the Catholics: five of them were arraigned in the
year 1593, on a charge of writing and publishing seditious libels; and though the publishers were spared,
Barrow and Greenwood, the writers, were condemned and executed, notwithstanding their plea, that the
obnoxious passages were directed against the bishops, and not against the queen. Penry, the “Martin Mar-
prelate” of Manchester, was sentenced to death, on a pretence that a number of papers, containing disjointed
sentences, intended as a petition to the queen, were treasonable ; and to prevent the populace from interposing
any obstacles in the way of his execution, he was suddenly taken from prison, and hanged at the door of Sir
Thomas Waterings.
The alarm of Spanish invasion was revived in 1593, and the queen addressed a letter to the earl of
Derby, as lord-lieutenant of the palatine counties of Lancaster and Chester, announcing that troubles had been
stirred up in Ireland, and that it had come to the knowledge of her majesty's council that certain Spanish
ships of war were to be sent, by the way of Scotland, to aid the insurgents in that country. To repel this in-
vasion, levies were to be made in the different counties of the kingdom, and the counties of Lancaster and
Chester were each required to furnish one hundred and thirty-eight able men, properly equipped, to proceed
to Liverpool or Chester, to be embarked in that service. To enforce this order, a letter was addressed by the
earl of Derby to Sir Richard Shirburn, knt.; Richard Hollande, esq., and the other deputy-lieutenants of the
county, in which his lordship was pleased to state, “that her majesty, in her princely wisdom, having resolved,
by God's assistance, to withstand and suppress this wicked force treacherously brought against her highnesses
most excellent and godly government,” required that consultation might be had, and the utmost promptitude
used, in carrying the measures into effect. A subsequent letter from his lordship, dated on the 14th of June
in the same year, represents that “general greffe and mislyke" have been conceived in the county, and not
without good cause, if he is rightly informed, from the manner in which the county has been assessed for the
Irish service. In consequence of these alleged malversations, the magistrates for the hundred of Salford were
required to assemble at Manchester, and to make out an account of the sums of money which had been
collected in their respective jurisdictions for this service during the last eight years, in order that justice might
be done to the county. From the nature of this official correspondence, it should appear that the alarm of
invasion soon subsided, for in the month of September in the same year, the lords of the council directed that
the beacon-watches should be discontinued, and that the inhabitants of the county of Lancaster should forth-
with be discharged from the necessity of contributing to this service.
At this period of our history, the hospitals of Chelsea and Chatham did not exist, neither did the chests
out of which disabled soldiers and mariners, who have served their country, are relieved ; but unfortunate
persons of this description, when they were discharged from the public service, received a certificate,
addressed to the justices of the peace, in the counties where they were born, or had been impressed, recom-
mending them to the humane consideration of the churchwardens and constables. These certificates were
given by men high in office, and, amongst others, we find one signed by no fewer than nine members of her
majesty's council, in favour of Nicholas Whittacre, a poor soldier, having done good service and bearing office
as a lieutentant in her majesty's wars, directing that he might receive such benefit from the general collections
of the county of Lancaster, where he was born or impressed, as was given to others of the same description.
An event which agitated the county of Lancaster—“the superstitious county of Lancaster”—in the most
extraordinary manner, happened to the head of its principal family soon after the death of Henry, earl of
Derby. His son and successor, Ferdinando, was seized “in the flower of his youth,” with a violent sickness, at
Knowsley, in the month of April, which was attributed to witchcraft both by himself and his attendants, and
of which he died at Lathom House twelve days afterwards. -
It appears that this country was visited in the years 1595 and 1596, by a severe dearth, amounting
almost to famine, owing to a succession of unfavourable seasons. In the following year, the lords of the
* Harl, MSS. cod. 1926, fo. 109 a.
CEHAP. XIII. QThe fligtorg of 3Lancashire. 189
council issued a letter to the justices of the peace in the county of Lancaster, congratulating them on the
return of plenty; but at the same time directing them to cause diligent inquisition to be made in all the
divisions of their county, for such persons as kept up the price of provisions, by buying or bargaining for corn
or other victuals, except in open market, or for their private use, and directing that they should apprehend
all engrossers and compel them to revoke their bargains. *
In the list of Queen Elizabeth's annual expenses, civil and military, in the year 1598, the following items
OCCUIT :—
The County Palaţine of Lancaster. The Duchy of Lancaster.
Chamberlaine ; fee . ſº * . £20 0 0 Chancellor ; fee and allowance of £4
Clerk of the crown ; fee . g . 40 0 0 for paper, parchment, and ink . £142, 10 0
And his diet when he rides, esteemed 40 0 0 Surveyor ; fee & e tº . 66 13 4
Clerk of the pleas; fee . fº . 40 0 0 Attorney; fee and allowance . . 45 0 0
Clerk of the extreats; fee . tº . 20 0 0 Receiver-general; fee and allowance . 38 10 0
Barons of the exchequer, 2; fee apiece 40 0 0 Clerk in the court of the duchy; fee
Attorney; fee . e e s s 6 13 4 and allowance . & . . 27 10 4
Messenger ; fee . & & e e 2 0 0 Messenger; fee and his charges when
And his riding expenses * he rideth . g id § . 40 0 0
Crier; fee . g s 2 0 0
The numerous levies that had been made for the queen's service in Ireland enabled the English general,
Mountjoy, to effect the subjugation of that country, though the rebels so called were aided by an invading
army of six thousand Spaniards. But the long and eventful reign of Elizabeth now drew to a close. The
queen, in the midst of all her splendour and success, fell into a state of irrecoverable melancholy, and died in
the seventieth year of her age, having bequeathed her crown to her lawful successor, James the Sixth of
Scotland, the eldest son of the unfortunate Mary Queen of Scots.
Immediately on the death of the queen a letter was addressed by the lords of the council to the sheriff.
of Lancaster (and the other sheriffs) announcing that “As much as it has pleased God to take out of this life
to his mercy our dearly beloved sovereign Queen Elizabeth, it has become necessary for the maintenance of
the safety of the realm, forthwith to proclaim James VI, king of Scotland, and now James I. king of
England, France, and Ireland.” For this purpose, their lordships had sent a proclamation which the sheriff
was required to publish in his county of Lancaster, and which proclamation announced that the imperial
crown had, by the death of the high and mighty princess Elizabeth, descended on the high and mighty prince
James, lineally and lawfully descended from the body of Margaret, daughter of the high and renowned prince
Henry VII, king of England, his great grandfather, the said Lady Margaret being the daughter of Elizabeth,
daughter of King Edward IV., by which happy conjunction both the houses of York and Lancaster were
united, to the joy unspeakable of this kingdom, formerly rent and torn by the large dissension of bloody and
civil wars. -
This proclamation met with a prompt, loyal, and dutiful response from the principal gentry of the county
of Tancaster, to which the following names were subscribed:—
“John Ireland, sheriff Rott Dalton of Pilling Christopher Carus Edward Standish
Sr Rychard Mollineux Roger Bradshaw John Cansfild John Traves
Sr Rychard Hoghton Roger Nowell John Calvert Henry Butler
Sr Cuthbert Halsall Nycholas Banister Edmund Fleetwood Edward Rigbie
Sr Edward Warren Myles Gerrard Edward Rawstorne Edward Langtrie
Sr John Radclyffe Edward Stanley Withm. Hylton Robt. More
Thomas Preston
Francis Tunstall
Randle Barton
Rychard Holland
Thomas Sothworth
John Osbaldeston
Willm. Thorneborrow
George Preston
Edward Tarbucke
Alexander Standish
James Ashton
John Middleton of Leyton
Willm. Farrington
Robt. Dalton de Thurnam
Barnabie Kitchin
Sr Nycholas Moseley
Thomas Walmysley
Thomas Gerrard
Thomas Langton
John Townley
Richard Sherburne
James Anderton of Lostock
James Anderton of Clayton
Robt. Charnock
Thomas Ashton
Rychard Fleetwood
Henrye Banister
Roger Kirkby
James Browne
Alexander Barlow
John Greenhaugh
Alexander Reddish
Edmund Hopwood
John Braddill
Thomas Barton
James Westby
John Massye
Edward Norres
Richard Ashton
Rychard Bold
Raufe Ashton
Roßt Hesketh
Thomas Tildisley
Thomas Ireland
Alexander Standish
Roger Downes
John Crosse
John Wrightington
Robt. Pilkington
Thomas Gidlow
Withm Chorley
Rychard Ashton
Withm Clayton
Roger Bradshawe
— Winstanley"
190
Qſìje 39tstory of £antasijire.
CHAP. XIV.
CHAPTER XIV.
Ancient Manners and Customs of the County—Dress—Buildings—Food—Coaches—Sports and Pastimes—The Arts—
The Laws—King James's first Progress—Lancashire Knights—The Plague—The Gunpowder Plot—Letter to
Lord Monteagle—Cecil's Account of the Discovery—Fate of the Conspirators—Lancashire Baronets—Lancashire
Witches—Dr. Dee's Petition—Seer Edward Kelly, the Necromancer—History of Lancashire Witchcraft—
Duchess of Gloucester—The Stanley Family—Satanic Possession—Case of Seven Demoniacs in Mr. Starkie's
Family at Cleworth ; Dispossessed—The Conjuror hanged—King James's Daemonologie—Witches of Pendle
Forest—Samlesbury Witches—Second Batch of Pendle Forest Witches—Examination of the Lancashire Witches
before the King in Council—Deposition of Ann Johnson, one of the reputed Witches—Case of a Lancashire
Witch in Worcestershire—Richard Dugdale, the Lancashire Demoniac: His Possession ; Dispossession—Witch-
craft Exploded—Progress of King James through Lancashire—The Book of Sports—Further Honours conferred
on Lancashire Men—Letter from King James to Sir Richard Hoghton, with Autograph—Letter from the
King's Council to the Earl of Derby, Lord-lieutenant of Lancashire and Cheshire-A.D. 1603 to 1624.
\UEEN ELIZABETH was no sooner consigned to the tomb of her royal progenitors, than her
! successor, James I, entered upon his progress from Edinburgh, by way of York, to London. But,
\º having now arrived at times comparatively modern, we shall pause to take a short retrospective
§ !. A view of the ancient manners and customs of the people of Lancashire, and in some degree of
º *º the kingdom in general, which, on being collated with the customs and manners of modern
º, times, will often afford instructive lessons, and exhibit by turns striking contrasts and
close resemblances.
From the time of the Norman Conquest the inhabitants of the county of Lancaster have been much
addicted to the chase. The extent of their forests has attached them to this pursuit ; and their skill in
archery, for which they have been famed, both in war and in their sports, had given them a taste for the
chase, which displayed itself as early as the reign of King John, and was at its height in the reign of Henry
VIII. The laurels gained on the field of Flodden by the levies under Sir Edward Stanley were principally
owing to their dexterity in the use of the bow and the bill.” According to Holinshed, the skill of the archers
must have been in great request, for, says he, “the whole countie of Lancaster hath beene forrest heretofore ;”
but this is an error of the venerable chronicler, as is shown with sufficient clearness by the Domesday survey
of William the Conqueror. It is true that when the Lacies, and the successors of the ducal house of Lan-
caster, sported over their vast domain, from the castle of Clitheroe to the castle of Pontefract, the right of
free-warren was exercised over all the intervening country without control; but it is also true that the tract
was studded with towns and villages, more numerous even in the days of John of Gaunt than in the reign
of Henry VIII.”
The nobles of Lancashire, in their baronial halls, were distinguished for their ancient munificence; and
the successive barons, earls, and dukes of Lancaster set the example for which Edward, earl of Derby, the
model of hospitality, was celebrated. The knights, the gentry, and the yeomen, each in their station, were
also famed for their hospitality and manly exercises; and Camden, speaking of the Lancashire men generally,
without distinction of rank, says—“You may determine the goodness of the country by the temperament of
the inhabitants, who are extremely comely.”
The dress of the ladies in the time of the Ferrers, first earls of Derby, is described as at once simple and
graceful: they were clothed in modest, elegant habits, consisting of a loose gown girdled round the waist,
which reached to the ground, and was surmounted with a veil over the head; the unmarried ladies were
distinguished by an additional robe over the gown, which hung down before and resembled the Sacerdotal
robe. The dress of the men of the higher order was a flowing robe; and the common people wore a kind of
* See chap. vii.
* Chap. xii. The English chiefly depended upon the force of
their infantry, and the bravery and expertness of the archers, which
was as much relied upon in our ancient warfare as is the charge in
modern British tactics. The archers were protected by body armour,
the arms being left perfectly free ; except when they wore a brigan-
dine of mail, which came before them like an apron; their arms were
a long bow, a sheaf of arrows, a sword, and a small shield. The
lbill-men, so called from their weapon, which resembled a small bill,
or hooked axe, were sometimes armed in brigandines of mail, but
at other times they were scarcely protected at all by armour.
* Description of England in the reign of Elizabeth, written by
Wm. Harrison, and affixed to Holinshed's Chronicles, new edit, p.
324. See also chap. vii. of this work.
4 Britannia, iii. 377.


CEIAP. XIV. (Tije Đigturn of 3Lancašijire. 191
tunic girt round the loins, which seldom reached lower than to the knees. Nothing could be more vain and
ridiculous than the fashions which prevailed in the reign of the last sovereign of the Lancaster line, and
which seemed to combine all the fantastical costumes of former reigns. In the reign of Henry VII, there
was an affectation of feminine attire in the men, and the lord chamberlaine is described in the Boke of Ker-
Vynge as saying—“Warme your soverayne hys petycote, his doublet, and his stomachere; and then put on
hys hosen, and then his schone or slyppers, then Stryke up his hosen mannerlye, and tye them up, then lace
his doublet hole by hole,” etc. Of the garbs of the priests just before the Protestant Reformation, Harrison,
an author of great fidelity, who wrote in that century, says that -
“They went either in diverse colors like plaiers, or in garments of light hew, as yellow, red, greene, &c., with their shoes
piked, their haire crisped, their girdles armed with silver; their shooes, spurres, bridles, &c., buckled with like mettall; their
apparell (for the most part) of silke, and richlie furred, their cappes laced and buttoned with gold ; so that to meet a priest in those
daies, was to beholde a peacocke that spreadeth his taile when he danseth before the henne.” These clerical beaux must have been
the dignitaries of the church, and not the inferior clergy of the county of Lancaster, who are described by Archbishop Lee as in
the possession of benefices not yielding them more than four guineas per annum." In the reign of Elizabeth the dress of the clergy
was more becoming their sacred order, and the showy colours, the “piked” shoes, and the glittering girdles, were discarded. The
head-dress of the laity was as yarious as the cut of their beards, “which were sometimes shaven from the chin like those of Turks,
sometimes cut short like the beard of marques Otto, sometimes made round like a rubbing brush, other with a pique devant, and
now and then Suffered to grow long.” As the men imitated the fashions of the women, so did the women imitate the fashions of
the men, to a degree offensive alike to good taste and to modesty; and Harrison, in describing the ladies of the ton in his days,
says, “Thus it is now come to pass, that women are become men, and men are transformed into monsters.” Randle Holme, one of
our county collectors, says that, about the fortieth year of Elizabeth (1598), the old fashions, which were used in the beginning of
her reign, were again revived, with some few additions made thereto, as guises, double ruffs, etc.; the men likewise, besides the double
use of the cloak, had a certain kind of loose hanging garment, called a mandeville, much like to our old jackets or jumps, but
without sleeves, only having holes to put the arms through ; yet some were made with sleeeves, but for no other use than to hang
on the back. Early in the reign of Elizabeth, the wearing of great breeches was carried to a very absurd and ridiculous length,
together with the peas-cod doublets, as they were called. These slops, or breeches, or trunk-hose, it was their custom to stuff
with rags, or such like materials, till they brought them to an enormous size ; so enormous that it was deemed necessary to legis-
late for their regulation. The legislators themselves, however, seem to have fallen into the same absurdity; for in the Harleian
Collection, No. 980, a paper is preserved, from which it appears that, in the reign of Elizabeth, a scaffold was erected round the
inside of the House of Commons, for those members to sit in who used the wearing of great breeches stuffed with hair, and bulging
out like woolsacks. Bulver, in his pedigree of the “English Gallant,” speaks of a man whom the judges accused of wearing
breeches contrary to the law, when he, for his excuse, drew out of his slops the contents—“as, first, a pair of sheets, two table-
cloths, ten napkins, four shirts, a brush, a glass, a comb, with night-caps,” and other useful articles. The ladies, that they might
not be outdone in grotesqueness of attire, invented the large hoop farthingales as a companion to the trunk-hose, and the women
who could not purchase these expensive commodities supplied their place with bum-rolls.”
The description of a fine lady's dress in the time of Queen Elizabeth, as breathed in the wishes of Miss
Margaret Hardman, while she was under the influence of possession (apparently by a spirit of pride), in the
house of Mr. Nicholas Starkie of Leigh, in the county of Lancaster, is too graphic to be withheld:–
“Come on, my lad, said she, for so she called her familiar—come on, and set my partlett on the one side, as I do the other.
I will have a fine smock of silk, with a silk petticoat garded a foot high ; it shall be laid with good lace, it shall have a French
body, not of whalebone, for that is not stiff enough, but of horne, for that will hold it out; it shall come low before, to keep in
my belly. I will have a French farthingale; I will have it low before and high behind, and broad on either side, that I may lay
my arms upon it. My gown shall be black wrought velvet; I will have my sleeves set out with wire, for sticks will break, and
are not stiff enough. I will have my perewincke so fine; I will have my cap of black velvet with a feather in it with flewes of gold,
and my hair shall be set with pearls. I will have a busk of whalebone; it shall be tied with two silk points; and I will have a
drawen wrought stomacher embossed with gold, and a girdle of gold... I will have my hose of orange colour, this is in request; and
my cork shoes of red Spanish leather. I will have a scarf of red silk, with a gold lace about the edge. I will have a fan with a
silver steel, and a glass set in it. Bring me a pair of gloves of the finest leather that may be, with two gold laces about the thumb,
and a fringe on the top, with flewes and red silk underneath, that I may draw them through a gold ring, or else I will have none of
them.” 2
When King James came to the crown, most of the old fashions used in the days of Elizabeth were again
revived, and the large breeches, with the hoop farthingales amongst the rest, came once more into fashion.
Expensive garters and curious shoe-roses were worn very generally, and the ladies kept pace with the other
sex in costly ornaments.
In the comedy of the “City Madam,” a lady says, “These roses would show well, an 'twere the fashion for the garters to be
seen.” But of all the ridiculous fashions, that of the men wearing stays was, perhaps, the most so ; and the earl of Somerset,
when so equipped, may be supposed to have served as a model for men of fashion of a much more recent period. The manufacturers
were not much behind the courtiers, and the opulent clothier's widow of Newbury is thus described:—“She came out of the
kitchen in a fair train gown, stuck full of silver pins; a white cap on her head, with cuts of curious needlework under the same,
and an apron before her as white as the driven snow;” while the spruce master tailor, her suitor, wore “a new russet jerkin, and
a tall sugar-loaf hat clapped on the side of his head. The spinning or factory girls of that day are thus described –
“And in a chamber close beside
Two hundred maidens did abide,
In petticoats of flannel red,
And milk-white kerchers on their head,
Their smock sleeves like to winter's snow,
That on the western mountains flow,
And each sleeve with a silken band
Was fairly tied at the hand.
Which pretty maids did never lin,
But in that place all day did spin,” etc.
1 See chap xii. p. 152, note 1. * Tract of the Rev. Geo. More, published in 1600.
192 (The #istory of £attrašijire. CHAP. XIV.
The young gentleman was distinguished by his gay suit of apparel, his cloak, and rapier ; the merchant's dress at that time
was a plain grave suit of clothes, with a black cloak ; and the rustic, when in his Sunday attire, had a leathern doublet with long
points, and a pair of breeches primed up like pudding-bags, with yellow stockings, and his hat turned up with a silver clasp on the
Teer side." These fashions were not confined to any particular district, they extended to the whole kingdom. “The manners and
customs of the inhabitants of Lancashire,” says John De Brentford, “are similar to those of the neighbouring counties, except that
the people eat with two-pronged forks. The men are masculine, and in general well made ; they ride and hunt the same as in the
most southern parts, but not with that grace, owing to the whip being carried in the left hand. The women are most handsome,
their eyes brown, black, hazel, blue, or grey; their noses, if not inclined to the aquiline, are mostly of the Grecian form, which
gives a most beautiful archness to the countenance, such indeed as is not easy to be described. Their fascinating manners have long
procured them the name of Lancashire Witches.” Leland says “The dress of the men chiefly consists of woollen garments, while
the women wear those of silk, linen, or stuff. Their usual colours are green, blue, black, and sometimes brown. The military are
dressed in red, which is vulgarly called scarlet.” According to Randle Holme, hats were not used in Lancashire, nor indeed in
England, till the time of Charles II. This is obviously a chronological mistake ; the hatting business existed in the south-east
part of this county in the time of Henry VI., and probably much earlier, as we have a petition to parliament in that reign from the
hatters, complaining of the introduction of machinery into their business, and representing that “hats, caps, etc., were wont” to be
fulled by manual labour; but that, of late, fulling-mills had been introduced, to effect this operation, to the prejudice of the work-
men, and the deterioration of the fabric. Silk stockings were not worn till the year 1560, when Queen Elizabeth, on being pre-
sented with a pair made by Mrs. Montague, her silk woman, as a New Year's gift, declared that she liked them so well that she
would not wear any more cloth hose,” which persons of the highest distinction had hitherto worn.
In the reign of Elizabeth, there were few houses of stone in the county of Lancaster except those of
the nobility and the highest rank of gentry. The houses of the middle and lower class were principally built
with wood. Those of the better order had large porches at the principal entrance, with halls and parlours;
the framework was constructed with beams of timber of such enormous size that the materials of one house,
as they were then built, would make several of equal size in the present mode of building. The common
method of making walls was to nail laths to the timber frame, and strike them over with rough (clay) plaster,
which was afterwards whitened with fine mortar, and this last was after beautified with figures and other
curious devices." Some had houses built with bricks, but these were rare, and of modern date. The inner
walls were either hung with tapestry, arras-work, or painted cloth, whereon were different devices, or they
were wainscoted with oak, and in that way made warm and ornamental. The cottages of the poor were
slightly set up with a few posts, and plastered over with clay, not very dissimilar to the rustic cottages of the
present day. The houses in the cities and towns were built each storey jutting over that beneath it, so that
where the streets were not wide, the people in the top storeys, from opposite houses, might not only converse
with each other, but even shake hands together. The houses were covered with tiles, shingles, slates, or lead.
The streets of Manchester, Preston, Liverpool, and the other towns of the county, were unpaved, and were
generally narrow, the smallness of the carriages and the diminutive intercourse not requiring spacious streets.
At the period of the wars between the houses of York and Lancaster, the windows principally consisted of
lattice or wickerwork, and sometimes of panes of horn; but in the reign of Elizabeth glass had become
plentiful, and was generally used in small squares set in lead. A still further improvement took place in the
buildings about this period. Till the time of Henry VIII, the houses were generally erected without chimneys;
and, in many of the first towns of the realm, not more than two or three chimneys were to be seen, the fires
being made in a recess in the wall, where the family dressed their victuals, and left the smoke to make its
escape as it does at present out of the Irish cabins. Valleys were generally preferred for the sites of towns
and villages, the buildings in the early times of Britain being mostly of a construction too slight to encounter
the boisterous elements of the climate to which they were exposed. The out-buildings, such as the dairy,
stables, and brewhouse attached to the mansions, were at a little distance from the house, and yet sufficiently
near, says Harrison, “that the goodman lieng in his bed may lightlie heare what is donne in each of them
with ease, and call quicklie vnto his meinie if anie danger should attack him.”
In the time of Edward I. orchards and gardens were much in use, but they afterwards grew into neglect,
so that from John of Gaunt's days to the end of the reign of Henry VII. little attention was paid to these
delightful and ornamental appendages to the gentlemen's mansions. This was owing to herbs, fruits, and
roots being little in use for the purpose of human food; but in the beginning of the reign of Henry VIII.
not only the poor, but the rich began to use melons, radishes, skirrets, parsnips, carrots, cabbages, turnips,
and salad herbs, the latter of which were served as delicacies at the tables of the nobility, gentry, and
merchants. Hops in times past had been plentiful, but they also grew into disuse, and the cultivation of them
was neglected till about the time of the Reformation; and hence the couplet— -
Hops, Reformation, Bays, and Beer
Came into England all in a year.
Beer, however, had been in England long before, and was a favourite beverage amongst the working classes,
when they were all good Catholics. The number of fasts in Catholic times somewhat diminished the con-
sumption of flesh-meat, which would otherwise, as the sustenance of the people was chiefly animal food and
milk, have been very great ; but when it became lawful for every man to feed upon what he was able to
* Strutt's Ancient Manners and Customs of the English, iii. 98. * Stow's Chronicle, fo. 867.
* Bodleian Collection, 1602. * Harrison's Description of Britain.
CHAP. XIV. The #istory of Lancashire. 193
purchase, except upon the weekly fast-days, which were observed by all long after the Reformation, it was
necessary to resort to herbs, roots, and bread, to diminish the consumption of cattle. -
“In number of dishes and change of meat, the nobilitie of England,” says Harrison, “doo most exceed, sith there is no daie
in maner that passeth over their heads, wherein they have not onelie béefe, mutton, veale, lambe, kid, porke, conie, capon, pig, or
so manie of these as the season yieldeth ; but also some portion of the red or fallowe déer, beside great varietie of fish and wild foule,
and sundrie other delicacies. The chiefe part of their daily provision is brought in before them (commonlie) in siluer vessell, if
they be of the degrée of barons, bishops, and Vpwards, and placed on their tables, whereof, when they haue taken what it pleaseth
them, the rest is reserued, and afterwards sente downe to their Seruing men and waiters, who féed thereon in like sort with con-
uenient moderation, and their reuersion also being bestowed Vpon the poore, which lie readie at their gates in great numbers to
receiue the same.”
This species of hospitality prevailed to a vast extent at Lathom House and Knowsley, in the time of
Edward, earl of Derby ; and the bishop of the diocese, Dr. Downham, entertained every day forty persons,
besides comers and goers." To guard against intemperance, each guest at the table of his noble host called
for a cup of such liquor as he preferred, which, when he had satisfied himself, he returned to the servant.
“By this device,” says our author, “much idle tipling is cut off, for if the full pot should continuallie stand at the elbow or
near the trencher, diuers would alwaies be dealing with it, whereas now they drinke seldome and Onelie when necessitie urgeth,
and so auoid the note of great drinking, or often troubling of the Seruitours with filling of their bols. Neuerthelesse, in the noble-
men's hals this order is not vsed, neither in any man's house commonlie Vnder the degrée of a knight or esquire of great reuenues.
The gentlemen and merchants keepe much about one rate, and each of them contenteth himselfe with foure, fille, or six dishes, when
they haue small resort, or peradventure with one or two, or thrée at the most, when they haue no strangers to accompanie them at
their tables.”
The potato was not then known in England, though now so familiar, especially in Lancashire, except as
a foreign root obtained with much difficulty and cost, and therefore the more desired. The wine most in
estimation was called theologicum, because it was had from the clergy and religious men, whose cellars were
well replenished. March beer was also much esteemed at the tables of the nobility and gentry, but it was
required to be at least a year old. The household beer was not drunk till after it had been brewed a month.
The artificers and husbandmen had their festivities, as well as their betters, “ especiallie,” says Harrison, “at Bridales [i.e.
Bride. Ales], purifications of women, and such odd méetings, where it is incredible to tell what meat is consumed and spent, ech one
bringing such a dish, or so many, with him, as his wife and he doo consult vpon, but alwaies with this consideration, that the léefr
fréend shall haue the better prouision. This also is commonlie Séene at their bankets, that the good man of the house is not charged
with anything sauing bread, drink, sauce, houseroome and fire. But the artificers in cities and good townes deale far otherwise, for
albeit that some of them doo suffer their iaws to go before their clawes, and diuers of them making good cheer doo hinder them-
selves and other men; yet the wiser sort can handle the matter well enough in these iunkettings, and therefore their frugalitie
deserueth commendation. Both the artificer and the husbandman are sufficientlie liberall and verie friendlie at their tables, and
when they méete, they are so merry without malice, and plaine without inward Italian or French Craft and subtiltie, that it would
doo a man good to be in companie among them.”
The more opulent classes generally used wheaten bread at their own tables, while their household and
poor neighbours were forced to content themselves with rye or barley, and in times of scarcity with beans,
peas, or oaten bread, the latter of which was then in general use amongst the middle and lower classes in
Tancashire and in Yorkshire, and is by no means entirely banished from these counties in the present day.
According to the same authority, the difference between summer and winter wheat was not known in his
time by the husbandmen in many counties; but in the north, about Kendal, and we presume about Lancaster
also, the spring wheat was cultivated, and called March wheat. In Elizabeth's time, the practice of sitting
long at meals grew into disuse, and two meals a-day, dinner and Supper, were thought sufficient. The nobility,
gentry, and students, usually dined at eleven o'clock in the forenoon, and supped between five and six in the
afternoon. The merchants seldom dined before twelve at noon, and supped at six at night. The husbandmen
and artisans dined at high noon, as they called it, and supped at seven or eight. In the Universities, the
students, out of term-time, dined at ten o'clock in the morning.
In those early days, when coffee and tea, with various other slops, were unknown, or not used in England,
it was no uncommon thing for the chief lords and ladies of the court to breakfast, as we have already shown,”
upon a fine beefsteak and a cup of ale, and that at eight o'clock in the morning; and that the hour of Supper
was early in Queen Mary's time may be inferred from Weston's promise to Bradford, the Lancashire martyr,
that he would see the queen, and speak to her on his behalf after Supper; but, adds he, “it is to be thought
that the queen has almost supped at present, for it is past six of the clock.” In the reign of King James,
early hours were still kept by people of quality, for we learn from the king's history of the “Powder Plot,”
that the letter cautioning Lord Monteagle against going to Parliament was delivered in the evening, between
six and seven o'clock, when his lordship was just going to supper.
During the wars of the Roses, the domestic accommodations of the people in this and the other counties
of the kingdom were as scanty and deficient as their historical records.
“There are,” says Harrison, “old men dwelling in the village where I remaine, which have noted three things to be marvel-
louslie altered in England within their sound remembrance : One is, the multitude of chimmies latelie erected, wheras in their yoong
* Chap. xiii. p. 168. * Description of England. * See chap. xiii. p. 181.
2 C
194 Çift ºigturn of £antasijire. CHAP. XIV.
daies there were not above two or three, if so manie, in most Vplandish townes of the realme (the religious houses and manour
places of their lords alwaies excepted, and peraduenture some great personages), but ech one made his fire against a reredosse in the
hall, where he dined and dressed his meat. The second is the great (although not generall) amendment of lodging, for (said they)
our fathers (yea and we our Selues also) haue lien full oft Vpon straw pallets, on rough mats couered onelie with a shéet Vnder couer-
lets made of dagswam or hopharlots (I vse their owne termes) and a good round log vnder their heads in steed of a bolster or
pillow. If it were so that our fathers, or the goodman of the house, had within seven yeares after his mariage purchased a matteres
or flockbed, and thereto a sacke of chaffe to rest his head Vpon, he, thought himselfe to be as well lodged as the lorde of the towne,
that peraduenture laie seldome in a bed of downe or whole fethers; so well were they contented, and with such base kind of furni-
ture ; which, also, is not verie much amended as yet in Some parts of Bedfordshire, and elsewhere further off from our southerne
parts. Pillowes (said they) were thought méet onelie for women in childbed. As for seruants, if they had anie shéet aboue them
it was well, for seldome had they anie ynder their bodies, to keepe them from the pricking straws that ran oft through the canuas of
the pallet, andrased their hardened hides. The third thing they tell of, is the exchange of vessell, as of treene platters into pewter,
and wooden spoones into siluer or tin. For so common were all sorts of treene stuffe in old time, that a man should hardlie find foure
péeces of pewter (of which one was peraduenture a salt) in a good farmer's house, and yet for all this frugalitie (if it may so be iustly
called) they were scarse able to line and paie their rents at their daies without selling of a cow, or an horse, or more, although they
paide but foure pounds at the vºtermost by the yeare.”
On the union of the houses of York and Lancaster under the prudent government of Henry VII., the
degrading and impoverishing feudal system having been virtually abolished, the condition of all classes began
to improve ; and in the reign of Elizabeth they attained to comparative opulence, as would appear from the
same authority.
“The furniture of our houses,” adds our author, “also exceedeth, and is growne in maner euen to passing delicacie; and
herein I doo not speake of the nobilitie and gentrie onlie, but likewise of the lowest sort. Certes in noble men's houses it is not rare
to see abundance of Arras, rich hangings of tapistrie, siluer vessell, and so much other plate as may furnish Sundrie cupbords to the
summe oftentimes of a thousand or two thousand pounds at the least ; whereby the value of this and the rest of their stuffe dooth
grow to be almost inestimable. Likewise in the houses of knights, gentlemen, merchantmen, and some other wealthie citizens, it
is not geson [rare] to behold generallie their great prouision of tapistrie, Turkie worke, pewter, brasse, fine linen, and thereto costlie
cupbords of plate worth five or six hundred or a thousand pounds, to be deemed by estimation. But as herein all these sorts doo
far exceed their elders and predecessors, and in neatness and curiositie, the merchant all other; so in time past the costlie furniture
staied there, whereas now it is descended yet lower, euen Wnto the inferiour artificers and manie farmers, who, by vertue of their old
and not of their new leases, haue for the most part learned also to garnish their cupbords with plate, their ioined beds with tapistrie
and silke hangings, and their tables with carpets and fine naperie, whereby the wealth of our countrie dooth infinitelie appear.”
|Formerly the accommodation at the principal inns, even in the towns, was very deficient, but in the
time of Elizabeth they had so much improved as to become great and sumptuous; and Holinshed, in his
Itinerary from Cockermouth to London, enumerates amongst these places Kendale, Burton, Lancaster, Preston,
Wigan, and Warrington, where the inns were well furnished with “napierie, bedding, and tapisserie. Each
commer,” says he, “is sure to lie in cleane sheets wherein no man hath been lodged since they came from the
landresse. If the traueller haue an horse his bed dooth cost him nothing, but if he go on foot he is sure to
paie a penie for the same ; but whether he be horseman or foote, if his chamber be oncé appointed, he may
carie the kaie with him, as of his owne house, so long as he lodgeth there.” It appears, however, that he was
subject to great impositions at these plausible houses of entertainment, and if he was not upon his guard, his
“budget" would be pillaged both by his host and by the servants. The penny for the lodging, when the
comparative value of money is considered, was pretty much the same in amount in the time of Elizabeth as
that which is now paid by travellers for similar accommodation at respectable inns. Henry VIII. indeed had
debased the coinage so much as to unsettle its value, but Elizabeth restored it by utterly abolishing the use
of copper coin, which she made into cannon, and using only silver even in her half-pence and farthings, and
silver groats were as common in her day as silver shillings are in ours.
The sports and pastimes of our ancestors consisted of hawking, hunting, and archery, to which the nobles
added the justs and tournaments; theatrical amusements of various kinds, and music were also in vogue, to
which the rustics added bull-baiting and bear-baiting, with their various gambols at the wakes and fairs. The
theatrical performances consisted of sacred mysteries derived from the holy Scriptures, of comedies, and of
masques, which prevailed in the time of Elizabeth when Shakspeare lived, and in the times of James I. when
Ben Jonson composed his celebrated masques for the royal amusement. Up to this time the players were
deemed vagrants, and in 6 Edward III. (1332), it was ordained by parliament that they should be whipped
out of London, notwithstanding their endeavours to entertain Prince Richard and his uncle the duke of
Lancaster. Their dramas, though sacred, were so ridiculous as to bring the histories of the New Testament
into contempt, and to encourage libertinism and infidelity.” The wakes, though arising from the dedication
of churches, soon degenerated into a species of rustic fairs, often kept on the Sunday, but totally devoid of
any religious character. The waits or wakes, who were a species of nocturnal musicians, went through the
streets at midnight, about Christmas time, playing their music, which is still partially continued ; but in earlier
times they were accustomed to sing carols and Christmas hymns. The minstrels were less stationary; they
strolled about the country to feasts, fairs, and weddings, and these cantabanqui were accustomed to mount
1 “As for slaves and bondmen, we have none ; and if any come * The first stage performances were in the churches, and on the
hither, so soon as they set foot on land they become so free of con- Sabbath-day ; but this profanation of the sacred edifices was inter-
dition as their masters.”—Description of England in Elizabeth's dicted by Bonner, bishop of London, in 1542–Warton's Hist, of
Time. Eng. Poetry.
CHAP. XIV. (The pistory of Lancashire. 195
upon benches and barrel-heads, where they sang popular songs for the amusement of the rustics at the price
of a groat a fit or canto, their matter being for the most part stories of past times.' Thus, in the Blind
Beggar of Bethnal Green is the following verse :- - - -
“Then give me leave, nobles and gentles each one,
One song more to sing, and then I have done;
And if that it may not win good report,
Then do not give me a groat for my sport.”
The second Randle Holme, who seems to have been a better antiquary than poet, has preserved the
names of a number of the prevailing games of Lancashire in the following metrical enumeration:—
“AUNTIENT CUSTOMS IN GAMES USED BY BOYS AND GIRLES, MERILY SETT OUT IN VERSE.
“Any they dare chalenge for to throw the sledge,
To jumpe, or leape ovir ditch, or hedge ;
To wrastle, play at stoole ball, or to runne,
To pitch the barre, or to shoote of a gunne;
To play at loggets, nine holes, or ten pinnes,
To trye it out at foote ball by the shinnes,
At tick tacke, seize nody, maw and ruffe,
At hot cokles, leape frogge, or blind man's buffe :
To drink the halper pottes, or deale at the whole cann,
To play at chess, or pue [? put] and inke horne ;
To daunce the moris, play at barley brake,
At al exploits a man can think or speak :
At Shrove groate, venter poynte, or cross and pile,
At beshrew him that's last at any stile ;
At leapinge over a Christmas bonfire,
Or at the draw.ynge dame [? dunne—i.e. a dun horse] out of the myer;
At shoote cocke, Gregory, stoole ball, and what not,
Picke poynt, toppe and scourge to make him hot.”
The arts, as the coucher books of Whalley and Furness sufficiently show, had made considerable progress
in the time of the first duke of Lancaster. The art of engraving in wood and on copper had also advanced,
as is evident from the remaining prints of Andrea Mantegna; and we have already seen that these ornamental
accomplishments were crowned by an invention, the most important of any age or country, that of the art of
printing, made by Guttenburg at Mentz, and introduced by Caxton, our countryman, into England.”
The administration of the laws in these early times was often extremely lax, as is instanced in the
frequent and systematic arrests of the inhabitants of the county and duchy of Lancaster, under the colour of
law, in the reign of Henry VI. ; in the abduction of Lady Butler in the same reign; and in the killing of
Mr. Hoghton at a still later period. When vagrants, pedlars, and strumpets were to be dealt with, the
punishment was sufficiently severe and certain ; the first, on conviction, were doomed to be grievously whipped,
and burnt through the gristle of the right hand with a hot iron of an inch square ; the next were condemned
to the pillory, for the second offence against the monopolising borough shopkeepers; and the third were
immersed by the ducking-stool, which was also appropriated to the correction of those domestic disturbers
known by the name of notorious scolds.” Trial by combat or wager of battle, so prevalent in these early days,
served to encourage the strong against the weak; this relic of a semi-barbarous age long outlived the trial by
ordeal, which, as we have shown, was abolished on the northern circuit, and, doubtless, in all other circuits in
the kingdom, as early as the reign of Henry III. In the times of religious persecution the terrors of the rack
were resorted to for the purpose of extorting confession for crimes that had sometimes never been committed;
and as the duchy of Lancaster had its star-chamber, so also it had its rack. Of the laws against witchcraft
we shall have occasion to treat at some length ; and it may suffice to say in this place, that, in the adminis-
tration of those laws in Lancashire impartial justice and royal clemency were of rare occurrence.
But we must now resume our history with the reign of James I. at the commencement of the seventeenth
century. On the king's arrival in York, on his first progress to London, he was met by persons of distinction
from all the northern counties of England, charged with the duty of declaring the loyalty and allegiance of
those counties to his majesty, without stipulating, however, for the loyalty of the king to the free institu-
tions of the country. From the county of Lancaster Sir Edmond Trafford and Sir Thomas Holcroft attended,
both of whom received the honour of knighthood in the garden of the palace at York, on Sunday the 17th
of April 1603; on the following day his majesty conferred the same honour on Sir Thomas Gerrard of Bryn,
at Grimstone; and on the arrival of the royal suite at Worksop, Sir John Biron, of Newstead Abbey in the
county of Nottingham, and of Rochdale in the county of Lancaster, father of John the first Lord Biron, and
Sir Thomas Stanley of Derbyshire, were also dubbed knights. After the king's arrival in London, Sir
1 Puttenham's Art of English Poesy, p. 69. which the printing press was introduced; and the works of Martin
. . . Marprelate, printed in that town, favour this opinion.
* It is conjectured, though the fact cannot be ascertained with * The ducking-stool, though now wholly discarded, was in use in
certainty, that Manchester was the first town in Lancashire into Manchester and in Preston within living memory. * Chap. vii.
196 (The ºigtorg of 3Lancashire. CHAP. XIV.
Thomas Hesketh, Sir Thomas Walmsley, Sir Alexander Barlow, Sir Edward Stanley, Sir Thomas Langton,
and Sir William Norris, all of the county of Lancaster, received the honour of knighthood; and in the
following year (1604), Sir Gilbert Hoghton, of Hoghton Tower, a distinguished favourite of the king, obtained
the same honour. In this year Sir John Fortescue, knight, chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, was ap-
pointed a member of a royal commission for the extermination of the Jesuits.
The plague, which had broken out in London in the first year of the king's reign, and carried off thirty
thousand of its inhabitants, when the whole population of that city did not exceed one hundred and fifty
thousand, spread the following year into Lancashire, and became so extremely fatal, that in Manchester alone
one thousand of the inhabitants' died of that malady in 1605, which was probably equal to one-sixth of its
population. At this time it was not usual to inter the dead of the lower class of people in coffins, and the
bodies were probably often insufficiently covered with earth, which might conduce to the spread of the
pestilence; indeed, as late as 1628 it was no unusual thing to bury the poor without coffins.” -
This pestilence having greatly subsided in London, it was appointed that the first parliament in the new
reign should assemble on the 5th of November ; but while the preparations were making a plot was dis-
covered, the most atrocious that “the tongue of man ever delivered, the ear of man ever heard, the heart of
man ever conceived, or the malice of devils ever practised”—a plot which had for its object to destroy at
one blow the king and the queen, and their family, and the lords and the commons of the realm congregated in
parliament. Some of the actors in this tremendous drama stand connected with the county of Lancaster, but
happily rather as conservators than destroyers. The letter by which the treason was disclosed is supposed
to have been written by a lady, a descendant by the female line of Sir Edward Stanley, the Lancashire hero
of Flodden Field, to her brother, Lord Monteagle, a Roman Catholic." Overtures had been made by the
conspirators to Sir William Stanley, who was then in Flanders, to become a party in the treason, but Sir
William in some degree retrieved his character by declining to take part himself, and by discountenancing an
intended application to foreign Catholic powers to aid the conspiracy. The plot originated with Robert
Catesby, a descendant of the noted favourite of Richard III., a man of fortune, in the enjoyment of the
family estate at Ashby in Northamptonshire, and with Thomas Piercy, a gentleman-pensioner to the king,
and a descendant of the illustrious house of Northumberland, both of them Roman Catholic recusants; and
its object was to destroy the Protestant reigning family, and to substitute a Catholic dynasty. Having
increased their numbers by the addition of Robert Winter, Thomas Winter, John Wright, and Christopher
Wright, and embarked Guido Faux, a Yorkshireman, passing under the name of Johnsonne, in the enterprise,
Piercy, who had rented the vault under the house of parliament as a fuel cellar, there accumulated thirty-six
barrels of gunpowder to perpetrate the intended explosion. Sir Everard Digby, Ambrose Rookewood, Esq.,
Francis Tresham, Esq., Thomas Habington, Esq., John Grant, and Robert Keys, gentleman, became also
members of the conspiracy, though less actively employed in the treason.” To bind the conspirators to
secrecy and to perseverance in the treasonable design, Gerrard, a Jesuit, administered an oath to Catesby and
Piercy, and to others of their fraternity, in these terms:— |
“You shall swear by the blessed Trinity, and by the Sacrament you now purpose to receive, never to disclose, directly or indirectly,
by word or circumstance, the matter that shall be proposed to you to keep secret, nor desist from the execution thereof, until the rest
give you leave.”
Ten days before the time appointed for the assembling of parliament, Lord Monteagle, son and heir to
Lord Morley, being in his lodgings in London, ready to go to supper, between six and seven o'clock at night,
one of his footmen, on returning from an errand across the street, delivered to him a letter, without either
date, signature, or superscription, which had been put into his hand in the dark by a man unknown, who
charged him to give it to his master, and which letter was expressed in these terms:—
“My Lord, out of the Love I bear to some of yo” friends, I have care of yo” preservation, and therefore I advise yo" as yo" Tender
yo” Life to devise some excuse to shift of yo” attendance at the Parliament, for god and good men have concurred to punish the wicked-
ness of this time, and think not slightly of yo” Advertisement but Retire yo” selfe into yo” Country, where yo” may expect the Event in
safety, for though there be no appearance of any stir, yet I say they shall receive a terrible blow this parliament, and yet they therein
shall not see who hurt them. This Counsel is not to be contemned, because it may do yo" good, and Can do yo" no harm, for the danger
is past so soon as yo" burn this letter, and I hope god will give yo" grace to make good use of it, to whose holy protection I commit you.”
After pondering over the letter for some time, doubtful whether the writer was in jest or in earnest,
his lordship repaired to the king's palace at Whitehall, and there delivered the letter to the earl of Salisbury,
the principal secretary of state," who has himself given an account of what followed; and we prefer quoting
his own words, because they involve a point of history which has been misrepresented for the purposes of
courtly adulation.
* Hollinworth's Mancuniensis MS. that “Tresham, one of the conspirators, sent to Lord Monteagle,
* Sir Henry Spelman's Treatise De Sepultură, p. 173. his friend, the letter revealing the conspiracy.”
* Sir Edward Philips's speech on the trial of the conspirators * Works of King James I. p. 241.
engaged in the gunpowder treason. * Letter from (Cecil) the earl of Salisbury, dated November 9,
* Father Juvençi, in his Hist. Societatis Jesu, 1. xiii. s. 45, says, 1605, to Sir Charles Cornewallyes. Harl. MSS. cod. 1875.
CHAP. XIV. (Liſt ºigtorg of £ancashire, - 197
“When I observed the generality of the advertisement and the style [of the letter], I could not well distinguish whether it were a
frenzy or sport. For, from any serious ground I could hardly be induced to believe that it proceeded, for many reasons. First, because
no wise man would think my Lord to be so weak as to take any alarm to absent himself from Parliament vpon such a Loose Advertisement.
Secondly, I considered that if any such thing were really intended, that it was very improbable that only one Nobleman should be warned
and none other. Nevertheless, being loth to trust my own judgement alone, being always inclined to do too much in such a Case as this,
I imparted the letter to the Earl of Suffolk, Lord Chamberlain, to the end I might receive his opinion. Whervpon pervsinge the words
of the letter and observing the writing, That the blow should come without knowledge who had hurt them, we both conceiued that it could
not be more proper than the time of Parlement ; Nor by any other way like to be attempted, then with Powder whilst the King was
sitting in the assembly. Of which the Lord Chamberlaine [thought] yº more probability Because there was a great Vault Vnder the said
Chamber wºn was neuer used for anything but some wood and coal belonginge to yº Keeper of ye Old Palace. In which consideration,
after we had imparted the same to the Lord Admiral, the Earl of Worcester and the Earle of Northampton and some other, We all thought
fit to forbear to impart it to the King, Vntill some three or four days before the Session. At which time we shewed his Ma” the letter,
rather as a thing we would not Conceal (because it was of such a nature) than any way persuading him to give any further Credit to it, Vntill
the place had been visited, wherevpon his Ma" (who hath a naturall habit to Contemn all false fears and a Judgm" so strong as never to
doubt anything which is not well warranted by reason) concurred only thus far with vs, That seeing such a matter was possible, That should
bee done which might prevent all danger, or else nothing at all. Herevpon it was moved, That till the night before his coming nothing
should be done to interrupt any purpose of theirs that had any such devilish practice, But rather to suffer them to go on till the Eve of
the day. And so on Monday in the afternoon accordingly the Lord Chamberlain, whose office it is to see all places of Assembly put in
readiness when the King's person should come, taking with him ye Lord Mounteagle, went to see all yº places in y” Parliament House.
And took also a slight occasion to peruse that Vault, where finding only Piles of Billets and faggots heaped Vpp, His Lordshipp fell into
inquiring onley who owned the same wood Observing the proportion to be somewhat more than y” Howse keeper was likely to lay in for
his own use. And when Answer was made that it belonged to one Mr. Percy His Lordship straight conceiued some suspicion in regard
of his person; And the Lord Mounteagle taking some notice that there was great profession between Percy and him from which some
inferrence might be made that it [was] the warning of a friend. My Lord Chamberlaine resolved absolutely to proceed in a search though
no other materials were visible, and being returned to the Court about five a Clock took me up with him to the King, and told him y' al-
though they were hard of belief that any such thing was thought of, yet in such a case as this whatsoever was not done (to put all out of
doubt) was as good as nothing. Wherevpon it was resolved by his Ma” that this matter should be so carried as no man should be
scandalized by it, nor any alarm taken for any such purpose. For the better effecting whereof The Lord Treasurer the Lord Admiral the
Earl of Worcester and we two agreed That Sº Tho Knevett should under a pretext of searching for stolen and imbezilled goodes both in
that place and other houses thereabouts, remove all that wood, and so to see the plain ground vnder it. Sº Tho. Knevett going thither
(wnlooked for) about Midnight into the Vault, found that fellow Johnsonne [Faux] newly come out of the Vault, and without any more
questions stayed him, And having no sooner removed the wood, he perceived the Barrels and so bound ye Caitiff fast, who made no
difficulty to acknowledge the fact nor to Confess clearly that the morrow following it should have been effected. And thus have you a
true narration from the beginning,” &c.
From this letter it appears that the Sagacity of first penetrating the mystery, imputed to the king by
historians, and by senators, and for which he himself takes credit in his work on the “Powder Treason,”
was not his. After some delay, and with considerable difficulty, Faux, the incendiary, was brought to con-
fess, in the presence of the privy council, that the plot was first communicated to him about Easter, in the
year 1604, when he was in the Low Countries, by Thomas Winter, and that on his arrival in England he
conferred upon it with Catesby, Piercy, and John Wright, and that they and he laboured in the mine to
penetrate from the adjoining house through the walls into the vault under the House of Lords, which work
was abandoned when Piercy got the vault itself into his possession. On the rumour of the discovery of the
plot, several of the conspirators hurried down into Warwickshire, where they made a fruitless attempt to raise
an insurrection, in which Piercy and Catesby were killed, and Digby, Rookewood, and the others, being taken
prisoners, were brought to London, tried, and executed on the thirtieth of January 1606, along with Faux.
The Catholics as well as the Protestants condemned this diabolical treason in the most unqualified terms; and
so strongly was the king impressed with the conviction that it was the conspiracy of a few fanatical individuals,
and not of a christian community, that, in his speech at the opening of parliament, he deprecated the injustice
of involving the Roman Catholics, as a body, in such enormous barbarities. Lord Monteagle, whose promptitude
and undeviating loyalty had, through the blessing of Providence, saved all the estates of the realm, was
rewarded for his communication by a grant of crown lands and a pension; and as a further mark of the king's
favour towards him, the life of his brother-in-law, Thomas Habington, Esq. of Hendlip, in Worcestershire, the
husband of the lady who is conjectured to have written the mysterious letter which afforded the clue to the
discovery, was saved, on condition that he should not quit the county of Worcester. The debt of public
gratitude due to Lord Monteagle from his country has been thus commemorated:—
“LO ! what my country should have done (have raised
An obelisk, or column, to thy name,
Or, if she would but modestly have praised
Thy fact, in brass or marble writ the same)
I, that am glad of thy great chance, here do
And, proud my work shall out-last common deeds,
Durst think it great and worthy wonder too ;-
But thine, for which I do.’t, so much exceeds.
My country's parents I have many known,
But saver of my country thee alone.”
BEN JONSON’s Epitaph On Lord Monteagle.
* In the preamble to the act for public thanksgiving on the anni- majesty with a divine spirit to interpret some dark phrases of a
Versary of the 5th of November, it is said, that “the conspiracy letter, shewed to his majesty, above and beyond all ordinary con-
Would have turned to the utter ruin of this whole kingdom, had it struction, thereby miraculously discovering this hidden treason.”
not pleased Almighty God, by inspiring the king's most excellent * Works of King James I. p. 227.
198 (Iije Đigturn of £ancashire, CHAP. XIV.
Sir William Stanley, with two other popish recusants, of the names of Owen and Baldwin, were placed
under arrest at Brussels, on suspicion of having been concerned in the gunpowder treason; but, in the cool
language of Sir Thomas Edmonds, the English ambassador, “Sir William was not yet so deeply charged
concerning this last treason" as to be put upon his trial. According to a monument in St. Ann's church,
Aldersgate, London, Peter Heywood, Esq. of Heywood (then spelt Heiwood), a magistrate of the county of
Lancaster, having probably accompanied Sir Thomas Knevett, apprehended Guido Faux coming forth from
the vault of the house of parliament on the eve of the gunpowder treason; and on the same authority it
appears that this vigilant magistrate was stabbed in Westminster Hall, five-and-thirty years afterwards, by
John James, a Dominican friar, for urging him to take the oaths of supremacy and allegiance.' That the
Stanley family stood in high estimation with the king may be inferred from the fact of the mutual interchange
of new-year's gifts in 1606° between his majesty and the Earl of Derby, and from the present of plate given
to the earl on the christening of his son and heir, James, the future earl of Derby, who was destined to die
On the scaffold in the cause of the Stuarts.
A knightly dignity of inheritance, more elevated than that of the knights banneret,” was instituted by
the king, in 1611, for the ostensible purpose of defending and reforming the province of Ulster, in Ireland.
It was the boast of King James and his courtiers that he had done more in nine years towards ameliorating
the condition of the people of Ireland than had been accomplished by his predecessors in the four hundred
and forty years which had elapsed since the first conquest of that country." To carry on these improvements,
and to preserve the peace of the country, the baronets were created, each of whom had a bloody hand, in a
field argent (the arms of Ulster), superadded to his family arms. The stipulations entered into by the
recipients of the new honour were that they should be aiding towards the building of churches, towns, and
castles; should hazard their lives and fortunes in the performance of their duty; and that, when any spark
of rebellion or other hostile invasion should threaten to disturb the peace of the kingdom or province, they
should be ready to defend it ; and that each of them should maintain and keep thirty foot soldiers there.
None were at first admitted to the new honour except those descended, at least, from a grandfather, on the
father's side, who had borne arms, and who had a clear income in land of £1000 per annum. At the
institution of the order, it was intended that the number should not exceed two hundred, that number to be
filled up as the titles became extinct. In the first batch of baronets, created on the 22d of May, eighteen
knights were honoured with this hereditary degree, amongst whom were the names of Sir Richard Molineux
of Sefton; Sir Richard Hoghton of Hoghton Tower; and Sir Thomas Gerrard of Bryn" all in the county
of Lancaster; and Sir George Booth of Dunham Massy, in the county of Chester. Up to this time, the
honourable ancient dignities were only eleven in number, but they were now increased to twelve, ranking in
the following order:-First, the king; second, the prince ; third, the duke; fourth, the marquis; fifth, the
earl; sixth, the viscount ; seventh, the baron ; and these seven are called princely, and allowed to wear
coronets. The other five are only noble : as first, the knight baronet; second, the knight banneret ; third,
the knight bachelor ; fourth, the esquire ; and, fifth, the gentleman.
This was the age of witchcraft ; and no county in the kingdom was more scandalised by the degrading
superstition than the county of Lancaster. In the present day, when the term “Lancashire Witches” serves
only to excite feelings of gaiety and admiration," it is not possible to conceive how different were the senti-
ments produced by those magical words in the seventeenth century, when the “Solomon of the North.”
ascended the throne of England, and when, on the proclamation of a general pardon, the crime of “wytch-
crafte” was excepted from the common amnesty. A petition from Dr. Dee, warden of the collegiate church
of Manchaster, of the date of the 5th of January 1604, praying to be freed from this revolting imputation of
witchcraft, even at the risk of a trial for his life, sufficiently indicates the horror excited by the charge. “It
has been affirmed,” says the doctor, “ that your majesty's supplicant was the conjuror belonging to the most
honourable privy council of your majesty's predecessor, of famous memory, Queen Elizabeth ; and that he is,
or hath been, a caller or invocater of devils, or damned spirits: these slanders, which have tended to his utter
undoing, can,” he adds, “no longer be endured; and, if on trial he is found guilty of the offence imputed to
him, he offers himself willingly to the punishment of death ; yea, either to be stoned to death, or to be buried
quick, or to be burned unmercifully.” Conjuror or not, the reverend warden sported with conjuror's weapons,
and his predictions on the fortunate day for the coronation of his royal mistress, and his pretensions to render
innoxious the waxen effigy of Queen Elizabeth found in Lincoln’s-Inn-Fields, very naturally subjected him to
those suspicions which, combined with other circumstances hereafter to be mentioned, proved his utter undoing.
1 Stowe's Survey of London, vol. i. p. 605. Clarendon's Hist, of this sum was returned to Sir Thomas Gerrard, in consideration of
Beb. i. 387. his father's sufferings in the cause of the king's mother, Mary
* Nichols's Progresses of King James I. vol. i. p. 593. Queen of Scots.
* The last knight banneret created was Sir Ralph Sadler, chancel- ° Mackenzie mentions a case of a fine girl, condemned to die in
lor of the duchy of Lancaster, on the field of Musselburgh, in the Scotland for witchcraft, whose crime in reality was that she had
year 1547. i - - attracted too great a share, in the lady's opinion, of the attention of
* King James's Works, p. 259. , the laird. This in modern times would have been called a real
* Each baronet paid a patent fee of £1000 on his creation ; but Lancashire witch. 7 Lansdowne MSS. cod. 161.
CELAP. XIV. Qſìje #istorm of £ancashire. 199
The doctor's connections, too, were of the most suspicious kind. For some years he was the friend and asso-
ciate of Edward Kelley, alias Talbot, a distinguished English alchymist and necromancer, who, for his delin-
quencies, had his ears cut off at Lancaster. It was the practice of Kelley to exhume and consult the dead, to
obtain a knowledge, as he pretended, of the fate of the living; and, upon a certain night, in the park of
Walton-le-Dale, in the county of . Lancaster, with one Paul Waring, his fellow-companion in such deeds of
darkness, he invoked one of the infernal regiment, to know certain passages in the life, as also what might be
known by the devil's foresight of the manner and time of the death of a noble young gentleman, as then in
his wardship.". This ceremony being ended, Kelley and his companion repaired to the churchyard of Walton-
le-Dale, sometimes called Law Church, where they dug up the body of a poor old man recently interred, and
whom, by their incantations, they made to deliver strange predictions concerning the same gentleman, who
was probably present, and anxious to read a page in the book of futurity. . After these feats, which were no
doubt performed by a kind of ventriloquism, Seer Edward went abroad, accompanied by Dr. Dee, where they
found the celebrated elixir, or philosopher's stone, in the form of a powder, by which, amongst other trans-
mutations, they converted the bottom of a warming-pan into good silver, only by warming it at the fire and
so plentiful were the precious metals, that their children played at quoits with golden quoits The fame of
the alchymists having reached Queen Elizabeth, she sent a messenger, Captain Peter Gwinne, secretly, for
Kelley, who had got himself immured in one of the prisons of the emperor Rodolphus II. in Prague ; but he
was doomed to die in a foreign land; for in an attempt to escape out of the window of the castle, he received
a mortal bruise—the elixir not being able, as it should appear, to communicate immortality to its possessor.
The first distinct charge of witchcraft, in any way connected with this county, is that (in 1447) of the
wife of the good Duke Humphrey, duchess of Gloucester, the associate of Roger Bolingbroke the priest, and
Margaret Jourdan, who, after having been hurled by her ambition and inquisitive credulity from the highest
elevation to the lowest degradation, became the prisoner of Sir Thomas Stanley, in the Isle of Man, and for
some time suffered confinement in the castle of Liverpool.” The arts of the Lancashire alchymists, and Sir
Edward Ashton, though partaking of the nature of witchcraft, prefer no claim to supernatural agency, but
may rank amongst the eccentric phenomena of the human mind."
In the Stanley family Edward earl of Derby had the reputation, on the authority of a minister of state,
of entertaining a conjuror in his house; and Margaret Clifford, countess of Derby, lost the favour of Queen
Elizabeth for a womanish curiosity (from which the queen herself was not entirely free) and consulting with
Wizards or cunning-men ; while Ferdinando, earl of Derby, died, as we have seen, under the impression that
he was bewitched, in which belief “very many, and some of them very learned men, concurred.” During
his last sickness, “a homelie wise-woman, about fifty years old, was found mumbling in a corner in his
honour's chamber, but what God knoweth. . . . About midnight was found by Mr. Halsall an image of
wax, with hair like unto the hair of his honour's head, twisted through the belly thereof; and he fell twice
into a trance, not able to move hand or foot, when he would have taken physic to do him good. In the end,
he cried out often against all witches and witchcraft, reposing his only hope of Salvation upon the merits of
Christ Jesus his Saviour.” -
Connected with these impositions and this infatuation was the doctrine and practice of demoniacal
possession and dispossession, on which subject an almost interminable controversy arose, which divided public
opinion in the county of Lancaster for many years, and which, like witchcraft itself, was at length exploded
by the progress of knowledge. -
Amongst the first cases of this kind is that of “Ann Milner, a maiden of Chester, eighteen years of
age,” to whom an evil spirit appeared suddenly, on the 16th of February 1564, in the form of a “white
thing compassing her round about,” while she was bringing her father's kine from the field. The following
morning she took to her bed, where she fell into a succession of trances, from which she was not recovered
till, on the bidding of Master Lane, a clergyman, she said the Lord's prayer and Te Deum, and was imme-
diately dispossessed after more than a month's affliction. At which the whole city stood astonished; the
judge of assize, John Throgmorton, esq., high justice, heard a sermon from Master Lane, on the occasion, and
Sir Wyllyam Calverley, knight, Richard Harlestone, esq., and John Fisher, attested the veracity of the
narrative." -
Another case of demoniacal possession, much more extensive and varied in its circumstances, took place
at Cleworth, now called Clayworth, in the parish of Leigh, in the county of Lancaster, thirty years after-
wards. The facts are related by the Rev. John Darrell, a minister of religion, and himself a principal actor
in the scene. According to the narrative published by this divine, there lived in the year 1594, at Cleworth,
One Nicholas Starkie, who had only two children, John and Anne ; the former ten, and the latter nine years
of age. These children, according to our authority, became possessed with an evil spirit; and John Hartlay,
a reputed conjuror, was applied to, at the end of from two to three months, to give them relief, which he
* Weiver's Ancient Funeral Monuments, p. 45. * See chap. xi. p. 133. 5 Harl. MSS. cod, 247.
* Margaret Jourdan, the Witch of Eye, was burnt to death in 6 From a black-letter copy in the British Museum, transcribed
Smithfield. * See chap. xi. p. 132. and obligingly furnished by George Ormerod, Esq.
200 Qſìſe ºigturn ºf £ancashire. CHAP. XIV,
effected by various charms, and the use of a magical circle with four crosses, drawn near Mr. Starkie's seat, at
Huntroyd, in the parish of Whalley. Hartlay was conjuror enough to discover the difference between Mr.
Starkie's table and his own, and he contrived to fix himself as a constant inmate in his benefactor's family for
two or three years. Being considered so essential to their peace, he advanced in his demands, till Mr. Starkie
demurred, and a separation took place; but not till five other persons, three of them the female wards of Mr.
Starkie, and two other females, had become possessed through the agency of Hartlay, “and it was judged in
the house, that whomsoever he kissed, on them he breathed the devil.” According to the narrative, all the
seven demoniacs sent forth such a strange and supernatural voice of loud shouting, as the like was never
before heard at Cleworth, nor in England. In this extremity Dr. Dee, the warden of Manchester College, was
applied to exorcise the evil spirits; but he refused to interfere, advising that they should call in some godly
preachers, with whom he would, if they thought proper, consult concerning a public or private fast ; at the
same time he sharply reproved Hartlay for his fraudulent practices. Some remission of violence followed;
but the evil spirits soon returned, and Mr. Starkie's house became a perfect bedlam. John Starkie the son
was “as fierce as a madman, or a mad dog;” his sister Anne was little better; Margaret Hardman, a gay
sprightly girl, was also troubled, and aspired after all the splendid attire of fashionable life, calling for one
gay thing after another, and repeatedly telling her lad, as she called her unseen familiar, that she would be
finer than him. Elinor, her younger sister, and Ellen Holland, another of Mr. Starkie's wards, were also
“ troubled;” and Margaret Byrom, of Salford, a woman thirty-three years of age, who was on a visit at
Cleworth, became giddy, and partook of the general malady. The young ladies fell down, as dead, while
they were dancing, and “singing and playing the minstrel;” and talked at such a rate that nobody could be
heard but themselves.
The preachers being called in, according to the advice of Dr. Dee, they inquired how the young demo-
niacs were handled, to which the possessed replied by a strange and absurd rhapsody. On the 16th of
March, Maister George More, pastor of Cawlke in Derbyshire, and Maister Jon Darrell, afterwards preacher
at St. Mary's in Nottingham, came to Cleworth, when they saw the girls grievously tormented. Jane Ashton,
the servant of Mr. Starkie, howled in a supernatural manner, Hartlay having given her kisses and promised
her marriage. The ministers having got all the seven into one chamber, gave them spiritual advice ; but on
the Bible being brought up to them, three or four of them began to scoff, and called it—“Bib-le Bab-le,
Bible Bable.” The next morning they were got into a large parlour and laid on couches, when Maister More
and Maister Dickens, a preacher (and their pastor), along with Maister Darrell and thirty other persons,
spent the day with them in prayer and fasting, and hearing the word of God. All the parties afflicted
remained in their fits the whole of the day. Towards evening, every one of them, with voice and hands lifted
up, cried to God for mercy, and he was pleased to hear them, so that six of them were shortly dispossessed,
and Jane Ashton in the course of the next day experienced the same deliverance. At the moment of
dispossession, some of them were miserably rent, and the blood gushed out both at the nose and mouth.
Margaret Byrom said that she felt the spirit come up her throat, when it gave her a “sore lug” at the time
of quitting her, and went out of the window with a flash of fire, she only seeing it. John Starkie said his
spirit left him like a man with a hunch on his back, very ill-favoured; Elinor Hardman's was like an urchin;
Margaret Byrom's like an ugly black man with shoulders higher than his head; and the others were equally
hideous. Two or three days afterwards, the unclean spirits returned and would have re-entered, had they
not been resisted. When they could not succeed, either by bribes or entreaties, they threw some of them
violently down, and deprived others of the use of their legs and other members; but the victory was finally
obtained by the preachers, and all the devils banished from Mr. Starkie's household. In this state of turmoil
and confusion Mr. Starkie's house had been kept for upwards of two years, but in the meantime Hartlay, the
conjuror, who seems to have been a designing knave, after undergoing an examination before two magistrates,
was committed to Lancaster Castle, where he was convicted, on the evidence of Mr. Starkie and his family, of
witchcraft, and sentenced to be executed, principally, as it is stated, for drawing the magical circle, which
seems to have been the least part of his offence, though the most obnoxious to the law. In this trial, spectral
evidence was adduced against the prisoner, and the experiment was tried of saying the Lord's prayer.' It
does not appear that any of the Lancashire witches or wizards were tried by swimming. When it
no longer served his purpose, he endeavoured to divest himself of the character of a conjuror, and
declared that he was not guilty of the crime for which he was doomed to suffer; the law, however, was
inexorable, and he was brought to execution. On the scaffold, he persisted in declaring his innocence, but
to no purpose ; the executioner did his duty, and the criminal was suspended. While in this situation the
rope broke, when he confessed his guilt ; and being again tied up, he died the victim of his own craft, and of
the infatuation of the age in which he lived.” On the appearance of Mr. Darrell’s book, containing the
relation of these marvellous events, a long controversy arose on the doctrine of Demonology, and it was
charged upon him by the Rev. Samuel Harsnet, afterwards bishop of Chichester, Norwich, and York, that he
1. Dr. Hutchinson's Historical Essay on Witchcraft, p. 33. devil of seven persons in Lancashire. One of his most famous acts
* Darrell's fiarrative of the strange and grievous vexation by the of dispossession was exercised on William Somers of Nottingham.
CHAP. XIV. (The 3%istory of £antagjire. 201
made a trade of casting out devils, and that he instructed the possessed how to conduct themselves, in order
to aid him in carrying on the imposition. Mr. Darrell was afterwards examined by the queen's com-
missioners; and, by the full agreement of the whole court, he was condemned as a counterfeit, deposed from
the ministry, and committed to close confinement, there to remain for further punishment. The clergy, in
order to prevent the scandal brought upon the church by false pretensions to the power of dispossessing
demons, soon after introduced a new canon into the ecclesiastical law, expressed in these terms:–“That no
minister or ministers, without license and direction of the bishop, under his hand and seal obtained, attempt,
upon any pretence whatsoever, either of possession or obsession, by fasting and prayer, to cast out any devil or
devils, under pain of the imputation of imposture, or Cozenage, and deposition from the ministry.” Some light is
cast upon these mysterious transactions by “a discourse concerning the possession and dispossession of seven
personsin one family in Lancashire,” written by George More, a puritanical minister, who had engaged in exorcising
the legion of devils. This discourse agrees substantially with Darrell's narrative, but adds some facts that
are worthy of mention; amongst others, that he, Mr. More, was a prisoner in the Clink for nearly two years,
for justifying and bearing witness to the facts stated by his fellow-minister. Speaking of Mr. Starkie's
family, he says that Mr. Nicholas Starkie having married a gentlewoman that was an inheritrix, and of
whose kindred some were papists; these, partly for religion, and partly because the estate descended not to
heirs-male, prayed for the perishing of her issue, and that four Sons pined away in a strange manner; but
that Mrs. Starkie, learning this circumstance estated her lands on her husband, and his heirs, failing issue of
her own body, after which a son and daughter were born, who prospered well till they arrived at the age of
ten or twelve years. In this disordered state of the public mind, a work of King James's, under the title
“Daemonologie,” alike distinguished for its vulgar credulity and for its sanguinary denunciations, was issued
from the press, and read with avidity. The Sapient author, after having imagined a fictitious crime, placed
the miserable and friendless objects of conviction beyond all hopes of royal clemency. Having laboured to
open the door for the most unjust convictions, the royal fanatic adds that all witches ought to be put to
death, without distinction of age, sex, or rank.” - -
A few years after the author of this sanguinary commentary upon the demoniacal code of Henry VIII.
and Elizabeth ascended the English throne, a discovery took place of an alleged convention of witches, held
at Malkin Tower, in Pendle Forest, in the county of Lancaster. It has been justly observed by Dr. Hibbert-
Ware, that witchcraft was generally the most rife in wild and desolate parts of the country, and this obser-
vation is borne out in Lancashire, for no district in the county is more wild and desolate than certain parts of
the parish of Whalley, in which parish almost all the witch scenes of the county have been performed. The
persons accused of holding the convention at Malkin Tower were a poor wretched old woman, of the name of
Southernes, and Anne Whittle, each of them fourscore years of age and upwards, with several of their neigh-
bours and relations, all of the same rank. No fewer than nineteen of these persons were tried at the assizes
at Lancaster in the autumn of 1612, charged with the crime of witchcraft, of whom the following is a list –
WITCHES OF PENDLE FOREST-Elizabeth Southernes, widow, alias Old Demdike; Elizabeth Device, alias
Young Demdike, her daughter; James Device, the son of Young Demdike; Alizon Device, the daughter of
Young Demdike; Anne Whittle, widow, alias Chattox, alias Chatter-box, the rival witch of Old Demdike;
Anne Redferne, daughter of Ann Chattox ; Alice Nutter; Katherine Hewytt, alias Mould-heeles; Jane Bul-
cock, of the Mosse End; John Bulcock, her son ; Isabel Robey; Margaret Pearson, of Padiham.
The last-mentioned of whom was tried—1st, for murder by witchcraft; 2d, for bewitching a neighbour;
3d, for bewitching a horse ; and being acquitted of the two former charges, was sentenced for the last to
stand upon the pillory, in the markets of Clitheroe, Padiham, Colne, and Lancaster, for four successive market-
days, with a printed paper upon her head, stating her offence.
WITCHES OF SAMLESBURY.—Jennet Bierley, Ellen Bierley, Jane Sowthworth, John Ramsden, Elizabeth
Astley, Alice Gray, Isabel Sidegraves, Lawrence Haye.
The sensation produced by these trials, in this and the neighbouring counties was great beyond all for-
mer example;” and Thomas Potts, Esq., the clerk of the court, was directed by the judges of assize, Sir
Edward Bromley, Knight, and Sir James Altham, Knight, to collect and publish the evidence, and other
documents connected with the trial, under the revision of the judges themselves. According to this authority,
Old Demdike, the principal actress in the tragedy, was a general agent for the devil in all these parts, no man
escaping her or her furies, that ever gave them occasion of offence, or denied them anything they stood in
need of. The justices of the peace in this part of the country, Roger Nowell and Nicholas Bannister, having
1 Ann, widow of Thurstan Barton, Esq. of Smithells, and daughter
and sole heiress of John Parr, Esq. of Kempnough and Cleworth,
in the county of Lancaster.—Ormerod's Cheshire, vol. i. p. 474.
* The infliction of death for witchcraft in England has been
generally, if not universally, by hanging; but in Scotland, in 1608,
“some women were taken in Broughton as witches, and put to an
assize, and convicted; albeit they persevered constant to the end,
yet they were burned quick [alive] after such a cruel manner, that
Some of them died in despair, renouncing and blaspheming God;
and others, half-burnt, brake out of the fire, and were cast quick in
it again, till they were burned to the death.”—The Earl of Mar’s
declaration, quoted in Sir W. Scott's Demonology, p. 315.
* Potts's Preface to the Trials of the Lancashire Witches in
1612. This has been reprinted, with Notes, etc., by James Crossley,
Esq., F.S.A. (vol. 6 of the Chetham Society’s series).
2 D
202 (Iije Đistory of 3Lancašijire. CHAP. XIV.
learnt that Malkin Tower, in the forest of Pendle, the residence of Old Demdike and her daughter, was the
resort of the witches, had ventured so far to brave the danger of their incantations as to arrest their head,
and a number of her followers, and to commit them to the castle at Lancaster. Amongst the rest of the
voluntary confessions made by the witches, that of Dame Demdike is preserved, and is to the following
effect:—
That about twenty years ago, as she was coming home from begging, she was met near Gouldshey, in the forest of Pendle, by a
spirit, or devil, in the shape of a boy, the one-half of his coat black and the other brown, who told her to stop, and said, that if she
would give him her soul, she should have anything she wished for ; on which she asked him his name, and was told that his name
was Tib; she then consented, from the hope of gain, to give him her soul. For several years she had no occasion to make any ap-
plication to her evil spirit ; but one “Sunday morning, having a little child upon her knee, and she being in a slumber, the Spirit
appeared to her in the likeness of a brown dog, and forced himself upon her knee, and begun to suck her blood under her left arm,
on which she exclaimed, “Jesus, save me,’ and the brown dog vanished, leaving her almost stark mad for the space of eight weeks.”
On another occasion she was led, being blind, to the house of Richard Baldwyn, to obtain payment for the services her daughter
had performed at his mill, when Baldwyn fell into a passion, and bid them to get off his ground, upbraiding them with being
whores and witches, and said he would burn the one and hang the other; on which Tib appeared, and they concerted matters to
revenge themselves upon Baldwyn, but it does not appear what was the nature of that revenge. This wretched creature, who
appears, like her compeer Chattox, to have been a poor mendicant pretender to the powers of witchcraft, might have read the work
of her sovereign King James; for in her examination she says that the surest way of taking man's life by witchcraft is to make a
picture of clay like unto the shape of the person meant to be killed, and when they would have the object of their vengeance to
suffer in any particular part of his body, to take a thorn, or pin, and prick it into that part of the effigy; and when they would
have any of the body to consume away, then to take that part of the figure and burn it; and when they would have the whole body
to consume, then to take the remainder of the picture and burn it; by which means the afflicted will die.
A number of other examinations follow, principally those of the witches themselves, amounting in sub-
stance to this, that Old Demdike persuaded her daughter, Elizabeth Device, to sell herself to the devil, and
that she took her advice; and that she, in her turn, initiated her daughter, Alizon Device, in her infernal
arts. When the old witch had been sent to Lancaster Castle, a grand convocation, consisting of seventeen
witches and three wizards, was held at Malkin Tower on Good Friday, which was by no means observed as a
fast, and at which it was determined to kill M’Covell, the governor of the castle, and to blow up the build-
ing, for the purpose of enabling the witches to make their escape, which certainly would have been a very
effectual way of accomplishing that object, seeing that the persons meant to be rescued were in the building
which it was intended to destroy The object of this witch-council was threefold: first, to christen the
familiar of Alizon Device, one of the witches who had been taken to Lancaster; second, to concert a plan for
blowing up the castle and murdering the gaoler; and third, for bewitching and murdering Mr. Lister, a gen-
tleman residing at Westby, in Craven, in Yorkshire. The business being ended, the witches, in quitting the
meeting, walked out of the barn, which was dignified with the name of a tower, in their proper shapes; but
no sooner had they reached the door than they each mounted their spirit, which was in the form of a young
horse, and quickly vanished out of sight. Before the assizes Old Demdike, worn out by age and trouble,
escaped the hands of the executioner by her death in prison, but the other prisoners were brought to trial.
The first person arraigned before Sir Edward Bromley (Aug. 18, 1612), who presided in the criminal
court, was Ann Whittle alias Chattox, who is described by Mr. Potts as a very old, withered, spent, and
decrepit creature, eighty years of age, and nearly blind—a dangerous witch of very long continuance, always
opposed to Old Demdike; for whom the one favoured the other hated deadly, and they envied and accused
one another in their examinations. This witch was more ready to do mischief to men's goods than to them-
selves, her lips ever chattered as she walked (and hence, probably, her name of Chattox or Chatter-box), but
no man knew what she said; her abode was in the forest of Pendle, amongst the wicked company of dan-
gerous witches, where the woollen trade was carried on, and she, in her younger days, was a carder of wool.
She was indicted for having exercised various wicked and devilish arts called witchcrafts, enchantments,
charms, and sorceries, upon one Robert Nutter of Greenehead, in the forest of Pendle, and, by force of the
said witchcraft, having feloniously killed the said Robert Nutter. To establish this charge, her own examina-
tion was read, from which it appeared that fourteen or fifteen years ago a thing like “a Christian man,” had
importuned her to sell her soul to the devil, and that she had complied with his request, giving to her familiar
the name of Fancy; and on account of an insult offered to her daughter Redfern by Robert Nutter, they two
conspired to place a bad wish upon Nutter, of which he died. Amongst other charms was that of an incan-
tation used over drink, in the process of brewing, when it failed to work, of which the following is a copy :-
** A CHARM.
Three Biters hast thou bitten,
The Hart, ill Eye, ill Tonge ;
Three bitter shall be thy Roote,
Father, Sonne, and Holy Ghost, a God’s name.
Fiue Pater-nosters, fille Auies, and a Creede,
In worship of fille wounds of our Lord.”
It was further deposed against the accused, that John Device agreed to give Old Chattox a dole of meal
yearly if she would not hurt him ; and that when he ceased to make this annual payment he took to his
bed and died. To which were added two other crimes of Smaller magnitude; first, that she had bewitched
CHAP. XIV. Qſìje ??istory of £antagüíre. 203
the drink of John Moore; and second, that she had, without the operation of the churn, produced a quantity
of butter from a dish of skimmed milk | In the face of this evidence, and no longer anxious about her own
life, she acknowledged her guilt ; but humbly prayed the judges to be merciful to her daughter Anne Red-
fearne. This prayer, so natural from a mother, was vain. Bent, as was the court before which she was tried,
on blood, they knew not how to appreciate this touching trait of maternal magnanimity.
Against Elizabeth Device, the testimony of her own daughter, a child nine years of age, was received,
and the way in which her evidence was given, instead of filling the court with horror, seems to have excited
their applause and admiration. According to our authority, the familiar of the prisoner was a dog, which
went by the name of Ball, and by whose agency she bewitched to death John Robinson, James Robinson,
and James Mitton; the first of the victims having called her a strumpet, and the last having refused to give
Old Demdike a penny when she asked him for charity. To render her daughter proficient in the art, the
prisoner taught her two prayers, by one of which she cured the bewitched, and by the other procured drink.
The prayer for drink was in these terms:—“Crucifixus hoc signum vitam Eternam. Amen.” The charm for
curing the bewitched, thus:—
** A CHARM.
“Wpon Good-Friday, I will fast while I may, What hath he in his hand ,
Wntil I heare them knell Ligh in leath wand :
Our Lord's owne Bell, What he in his other hand 7
Lord in his messe - Heauen’s doore key.
With his twelue Apostles good, - Open, open Heauen’s doore keyes,
Sneck, Sneck hell doore,” etc. :
The person of Elizabeth Device, as described by the clerk of the court, seems to have peculiarly qualified
her for an ancient witch: “She was branded,” says he, “with a preposterous mark in nature; her left eye
standing lower than her right, the one looking down and the other up, at the same time.” Her process of
destruction was by modelling clay or marl figures, and wasting her victims away along with them —another
proof of the king's Sagacity, which, no doubt, the judges, who seem to have been more solicitous to obtain the
favour of their royal master than to administer impartial justice to his subjects, would not fail to make known
at court. James Device was convicted principally on the evidence of his infant sister, of bewitching and
killing Mrs. Ann Towneley, the wife of Mr. Henry Towneley of the Carr, by means of a picture of clay, and both
he and his sister were witnesses against their mother. This wizard, whose spirit was called Dandy, is
described as a poor, decrepit boy, apparently of weak intellect, and so infirm that it was found necessary to
hold him up in court on his trial. Upon evidence of this kind, no fewer than ten of these unfortunate people
were found guilty at Lancaster, and sentenced to suffer the punishment of death; eight others were acquitted,
though for what reason it is difficult to imagine, for the evidence against some of them, at least, appears to
have been equally strong; or, to speak more properly, equally weak and absurd, as against those who were
convicted. The persons sentenced to death, and afterwards executed, were Ann Whittle alias Chattox,
Elizabeth Device, James Device, Ann Redferne, Alice Nutter, Catherine Hewytt, John Bulcock, Jane Bulcock,
Alizon T)evice, and Isabel Robey.
Against Jane Bierley, Ellen Bierley, and Jane Southworth of Samlesbury, charged with having bewitched
Grace Sowerbutts at that place ; the only material evidence adduced was that of Grace Sowerbutts herself, a
girl of licentious and vagrant habits, who swore that these women, one of them being her grandmother, did
draw her by the hair of the head, and lay her upon the top of a hay-mow, and did take her senses and
memory from her; that they appeared to her sometimes in their own likeness, and sometimes like a black
dog. She further deposed, that by their arts they prevailed upon her to join their sisterhood; and that they
were met from time to time by “four black things going upright, and yet not like men in the face,” who
conveyed them across the Ribble, where they danced with them, and then each retired to hold dalliance with
their familiar, conformable, no doubt, to the doctrine of Incubi and Succubi, as promulgated by the royal
demonologist. To consummate their atrocities, the prisoners bewitched and slew a child of Thomas Walsh-
man's, by placing a nail in its navel; and after its burial they took up the corpse, when they ate part of the
flesh, and made “an unxious ointment" by boiling the bones. This was more than even the capacious
credulity of the judge and jury could digest ; the Samlesbury witches were therefore acquitted, and a semi-
nary priest, of the name of Thompsom, alias Southworth, was suspected by two of the county magistrates, to
whom the affair was afterwards referred, of having instigated Sowerbutts to make the charge ; but this impu-
tation was not supported by any satisfactory evidence. John Ramsden, Elizabeth Astley, Alice Gray, Isabel
Sidegraves, and Lawrence Haye, were all discharged without trial.
The judge, Sir Edward Bromley, in addressing the convicted prisoners, when sentence of death was
passed upon them, made a parade of clemency and impartial justice, which was only to be discovered in his
words:–“You,” said he, “ of all people, have the least cause of complaint ; since on the trial for your lives
there hath been much care and pains taken ; and what persons of your nature and condition were ever
* The ancient Rabbins held that the devils most frequently ap- of the familiars of the Lancashire witches were of this classical de-
peared in the shape of Seghwirim, rough and hairy goats; but none scription, *The Rev. William Leigh, and Edward Chisnall, Esq.
204 (The #istory ºf £antasijire.
CHAP, XIV.
arraigned and tried with so much solemnity ? The court hath had great care to receive nothing in evidence
against you but matter of fact I" As you stand simply (your offences and bloody practices not considered),
your fate would rather move compassion than exasperate any man; for whom would not the ruin of so many
poor creatures at one time touch, as in appearance simple, and of little understanding'. But the blood of
these innocent children, and others his majesty's subjects, whom cruelly and barbarously you have murdered
and cut off, cries unto the Lord for vengeance. It is impossible that you, who are stained with so much
innocent blood, should either prosper or continue in this world, or receive reward in the next.” Having thus
shut the door of hope, both in this life and the life that is to come, the judge proceeded to urge the victims
of superstition to repentance; and concluded by sentencing them all to be hanged. It would, probably, have
occurred to the judges, that persons possessed of the power to kill their enemies, and endowed with a capacity
of locomotion that enabled them to fly over the land or the Sea, might have slain their prosecutors, or
mounted their familiars, and taken flight, had not the dogma promulgated by King James answered this
objection in limine: “When the witches are apprehended and detained by the lawful magistrate,” says the
royal commentator, “their power is then no greater than before that ever they meddled with these matters.”
This, indeed, is a necessary part of the doctrine, otherwise Elizabeth Device and her associates might as easily
and as invisibly have conveyed themselves from the bar of the castle of Lancaster, as from the witch-con-
vention at Malkin Tower. At the appointed time, all these poor wretches died by the hands of the public
executioner—victims, no doubt in part, of their own fraudulent arts, resorted to for the purpose of eking out
a miserable subsistence—but, much more, sacrifices offered upon the altars of ignorance and Superstition.
At the assizes at York, in the summer of the same year (1612), Jennet Preston of Gisborn was brought
to trial before Sir James Altham, charged with having attended the great witch-meeting at Malkin Tower in
Lancashire on the Good-Friday preceding, and with having murdered Thomas Lister, Esq. of Westby in
Craven by witchcraft. In support of these charges, it was deposed by Anne Robinson, probably one of the
family of the Lancashire witch-finders, that when Mr. Lister was lying in extremity upon his death-bed, he
cried out to them that stood about him, “Jennet Preston is in the house, look where she is take hold of her ;
for God’s sake shut the doors, and take her | Look about for her, and lay hold on her, for she is in the house !”
and so crying, he departed this life. Other witnesses deposed that after Mr. Lister was dead, and laid out
in his winding-sheet, Jane Preston was brought to touch the dead body, on which fresh blood presently
gushed out in the presence of all those that were in the room.” This appears to have been the only evidence
against the prisoner, except that which was contained in the examination of James Device, the grandson of
Old Demdike, who deposed before Roger Nowell and Nicholas Bannister, two Lancashire magistrates, that
Jennet Preston, the prisoner, was present at the great witch-meeting at Malkin Tower on the memorable
Good-Friday, and that she came to the meeting mounted upon a spirit like unto a white foal, with a black
spot in the forehead; that at this meeting she asked the aid of the witches and wizards assembled to kill Mr.
Thomas Lister, and that they consented to entangle him in the meshes of their net of enchantment, and, in
the end, to destroy him ; on which she gave them an invitation to attend another witch-feast on the next
Good-Friday on Romeles-moor, and then mounting her spirit she took flight through the air, and became in-
visible. This strange mass of absurdities satisfied the judge of the prisoner's guilt, who summed up the
evidence, if evidence it could be called, strongly against her; but the jury, somewhat more scrupulous, spent
the greatest part of the day in deliberation; in the end, however, they returned a verdict of guilty, and the
poor unfortunate wretch ended her life on the gallows, denying firmly her guilt, and accusing, with a great
deal of truth, her prosecutors of the crime of murder. It does not appear that the rack was resorted to in
Lancashire, but if the rack was not applied, the gallows was in frequent use ; and a man of the name of
Uttey, a reputed wizard, was hanged at Lancaster about the year 1630, for having bewitched to death
Richard, the son of Ralph Assheton, Esq., lord of Middleton."
At the assizes at Lancaster in 1633, another batch of reputed witches, consisting of seventeen in number,
was brought to trial from the usual resort in Pendle Forest. The informations were laid before Richard
Shuttleworth, Esq., and John Starkie, Esq., on the 10th of February 1633, the latter of whom had figured
as one of the possessed amongst the seven demoniacs at Cleworth, in the year 1595. The principal evidence
against the prisoners was Edward Robinson,” the son of Edmund Robinson of Pendle, mason, who deposed
1. Nothing but matter of fact ſ—Why, to prove the guilt of one of
the prisoners, evidence was received that it was the opinion of a
man, not in court, that she had turned his beer sour; and to prove
the charge of murder, it was thought sufficient to attest that a sick
person had declared his belief that he owed his approaching death
to the maledictions of the prisoner. The bleeding of the corpse on
the touch of the sorceress, one of the absurd and now exploded
superstitions insisted upon by King James, was advanced on oath,
on the trial of Jennet Preston, as an incontrovertible evidence of
guilt ; and yet the judge upon the bench declares that no evidence
was received against the prisoners but matter of fact. His lordship
would have approached much nearer to the truth if he had said that
nothing but fiction was heard in evidence.
* King James's Daemonologie, chap. vi.
* It ought to be generally known that the blood is congealed in
the body for two or three days after death, and then becomes liquid
again in its tendency to corruption ; and that the air being heated
by a number of persons coming into the room, the blood will flow,
when murderers are absent as well as when they are present. This
test ought therefore to be exploded.
* Dr. Whitaker's History of Whalley, p. 528.
* The prototype of Matthew Hopkins, the south-country witch-
finder. Sir Walter Scott, in his preface to the Wonderful Discovery
of Witches in Lancashire, in Lord Somers’ Tracts, has fallen into
an error by confounding the Pendle Forest witches of 1612 with
those of 1633.
CHAP. XIV. - Oſije #istorm of 3Lancashire. 205
that two greyhounds had been transformed into witches. That one of the witches there, Dickonson's wife,
had conveyed him before her on horseback to a meeting at Hoarestones, where a convocation of witches,
amounting to threescore or thereabout, had assembled to regale themselves; that one of them, Loyard's wife,
he had seen sitting upon a piece of cross Wood in his father's chimney; that afterwards he had met and
fought with a boy, who turned out to have a cloven foot ; that in a neighbouring barn he had seen three
witches taking pictures, into which they had stuck thorns, and that, at the meeting at Hoarestones, all the
persons now in confinement for witchcraft were present. The only evidence that appears in confirmation of
this testimony is that of Edmund Robinson, the father, who had himself been a witness against the Lancashire
witches of 1612, which amounts merely to this—that he heard his son cry pitifully, and that the boy told
him all that was contained in his deposition. A
Upon this evidence all the seventeen prisoners were found guilty, and sentenced to be executed. But
the judge very properly respited the execution ; and, on the case being reported to the king in council, the
bishop of Chester, Dr. Bridgman, was required to investigate the circumstances. This inquiry was instituted
at Chester, and four of the convicted witches—namely, Margaret Johnson, Frances Dickonson, Mary Spencer,
and the wife of Hargraves—were sent to London, and examined, first, by the king's physicians and Surgeons,
and afterwards by the king himself. Charles I., less prone to credulity than his father, having satisfied him-
self that the charge against these poor creatures was groundless, extended to them the royal clemency, and
so well was the case of those left behind represented by the singular delegation, that all the seventeen re-
ceived a free pardon. It is not the least extraordinary part of these most extraordinary transactions, that,
previous to the trial, Margaret Johnson of Marsden, one of the prisoners, had been so acted upon by the
terrors of her situation, that she actually made a confession of her own guilt, attended with circumstances
which would, if true, have ended in her execution. According to this deposition, Johnson had sold her soul
to a spirit, or devil, in the similitude of a man, to whom she gave the name of Mamilian, who had promised
to supply all her wants. It is difficult to imagine how voluntary confessions of crimes never committed could
be obtained from persons who were liable to forfeit their lives, and frequently did forfeit them, on their own
accusations. But the fact is undeniable. Sir George Mackenzie, himself a believer in witchcraft, and who,
as the king's advocate, had conducted many trials in Scotland for that crime, speaking upon the judicial
confession of the criminals themselves, says—
“Those poor persons who are ordinarily accused of this crime are poor ignorant creatures, and oft-times women, who understand
not the nature of what they are accused of, and many, mistaking their own fears and apprehensions for witchcraft, when they are
defamed, become so confounded with fear, and the close prison in which they are kept, and so starved for want of meat and sleep
(either of which wants is enough to disorder the strongest reason), that hardly wiser or more serious people than they would escape
distraction; and when persons are confounded with fear and apprehension, they will imagine things very ridiculous and absurd.
Most of those poor creatures are tortured by their keepers, who, being persuaded they do God good service, think it their duty to
vex and torment poor prisoners. I went,” continues Sir George, “when I was a justice-depute, to examine some women who had
confessed judicially, and one of them, who was a silly creature, told me, under Secrecy, that she had not confest because she was
guilty, but being a poor creature, who wrought for her meat, and being defamed for a witch, she knew she would starve, for no
person thereafter would either give her meat or lodging, and that all men would beat her, and hound dogs at her, and that,
therefore, she desired to be out of the world ; whereupon she wept most bitterly, and upon her knees called God to witness what
she said.”
The account of these transactions given by Dr. Webster, in his “Display of Witchcraft,” serves to show
the consternation and alarm which must have been felt in those days, particularly amongst the old and
decrepit, from the machinations of the witch-finders. Of the boy Robinson he says—"
“This said boy was brought into the church at Kildwick [in Yorkshire, on the confines of Lancashire], a large parish church,
where I, being then curate there, was preaching in the afternoon, and was set upon a stool to look about him, which moved some
little disturbance in the congregation for a while. After prayers I inquired what the matter was ; the people told me that it was
the boy that discovered witches; upon which I went to the house where he was to stay all night, where I found him and two very
unlikely persons, that did conduct him and manage the business. I desired to have some discourse with the boy in private ; but
that they utterly refused ; then, in the presence of a great many people, I took the boy near me, and said, ‘Good boy, tell me
truly and in earnest, didst thou see and hear such strange things at the meeting of witches as is reported by many that thou didst
relate º’ But the two men, not giving the boy leave to answer, did pluck him from me, and said he had been examined by two
able justices of the peace, and they did never ask him. Such a guestion. To whom I replied, the persons accused had therefore the
more wrong.” As government spies multiply traitors, so professional witch-finders create witches. “The boy Robinson,” says
Dr. Webster, “in more mature years, acknowledged that he had been instructed and suborned to make these accusations against
the accused persons by his father and others, and that, of course, the whole was a fraud. By such wicked means and unchristian
practices, divers innocent persons lost their lives; and these wicked rogues wanted not greater persons (even of the ministry too)
that did authorize and encourage them in their diabolical courses: and the like in my time happened here in Lancashire, where
divers, both men and women, were accused of supposed witchcraft, and were so unchristianly and inhumanly handled as to be
stript stark naked, and laid upon tables and beds to be searched for their supposed witch-marks, so barbarous and cruel acts doth
diabolical instigation, working upon ignorance and Superstition, produce.” - - i
I Webster's Display of Witchcraft, p. 276. and as the place at which the imps sucked | Sometimes the accused
* The cruel process was to strip the Supposed witch naked, and were thrown into a river, or pond, having their thumbs and toes tied
thrust pins into various parts of the body, to discover what the together, where if they sank they were held innocent, but if they
royal demonologist called the “witch-mark,” or the devil's stigma— swam were dragged forth to prison. On other occasions the sus-
that is, a part of the body insensible to pain, and which was Sup- pected witch was bound cross-legged on a stool, there to be watched,
posed to be possessed by the devil as a sign of his sovereign power, and kept without meat or sleep for the space of four-and-twenty
206 (Liſt £istory ºf 3Lancashire. CHAP. XIV.
Not only persons of the ministry, but the king himself, as we have seen in the last reign, authorised and
encouraged these diabolical courses, not omitting the witch-mark in his descriptions. It must not, however,
be supposed that all who countenanced these impositions were themselves fools or impostors, for amongst the
judges of the land who gave into the delusion we find the venerable name of Sir Matthew Hale.'
One of the “Lancashire Witches” having, as it appears, quitted her native county, and wandered into
Worcestershire, in consequence of the distress occasioned by the civil wars, which the poor are always the
first to feel, this wretched mendicant, a more fit object of compassion than of terror, was found by a wicked
boy, who protested that she had by her sorceries deprived him of speech. On what kind of evidence this
charge was raised may be easily conjectured ; and though the fate of the poor woman is not distinctly stated,
there is but too much reason to suppose, from the avidity with which witches were in these times pursued,
and the relentless cruelty with which they were persecuted, that on this evidence she was tried and
executed.
Although trials for witchcraft were by no means unusual in the time of the Commonwealth, and though
no fewer than three hundred reputed witches were tried, and the major part of them executed, in the period
between the deposition of Charles I. and the death of his son and successor, in the southern counties of
England, yet we only find two cases of this kind of judicial homicide in the county of Lancaster within that
agitated period, and these are mentioned somewhat vaguely by Dr. Webster, who says, “I myself have known
two supposed witches to be put to death at Lancaster within these eighteen years” that did utterly deny any
league or covenant with the devil, or even to have seen any visible devil at all; and may not the confession
of those (who both died penitent) be as well credited as the confession of those that were brought to such
confessions by force, fraud, or cunning persuasion and allurement?”
But there was a very memorable case of supposed demoniacal possession and dispossession in the close of
the seventeenth century, with which we shall conclude this very curious portion of our county history. The
case to which we refer is that of Richard Dugdale, the Surey demoniac, and the story, though a very long one,
may be told in a few sentences. Dugdale, it appears, was a youth just rising into manhood, a gardener by
trade, living with his parents at Surey in the parish of Whalley, addicted to pleasure, and distinguished even
at School as a posture-master and ventriloquist. Turing his possession he was attended by six dissenting
ministers, the Rev. Messrs. Thomas Jolly, Charles Sagar, Nicholas Kershaw, Robert Waddington, Thomas
Whally, and John Carrington, who were occasionally assisted at their meetings, held to exorcise the demon,
by the Rev. Mr. Frankland, Mr. Pendlebury, and the Rev. Oliver Heywood. According to the narration put
forth under the sanction of these names, which is called—
“An account of Satan's acting in and about the body of Richard Dugdale, and of Satan's removal thence through the Lord's
blessing of the within-mentioned Ministers and People;” when Dugdale was about nineteen years of age he was seized with an
affliction early in the year 1689, and from the strange fits which violently seized him he was supposed to be possessed by the devil.
When the fit was upon him “he shewed great despite,” says the narrative, “against the ordinary of God, and raged as if he had
been nothing but a devil in Richard's bodily shape ; though, when he was not in his fits he manifested great inclination to the word
of God and prayer, for the exercise of which in his behalf he desired that a day of fasting might be set apart as the only means from
which he could expect help, seeing that he had tried all other means, lawful and unlawful.”* Meetings were accordingly appointed
of the ministers, to which the people crowded in vast numbers. These meetings began on the 8th of May, and were continued about
twice a-month till the February following. At the first meeting the parents of the demoniac were examined by the ministers, and
they represented “That at Whalley rush-burying [or bearing], on the James's-tide, in July 1688, there was a great dancing and
drinking, when Richard offered himself to the devil on condition that he would make him the best dancer in Lancashire.” After
|becoming extremely drunk he went home, where several apparitions appeared to him and presented to him all kinds of dainties and
fine clothing, with gold and precious things, inviting him at the same time “to take his fill of pleasure.” In the course of the day
some compact or bond was entered into between him and the devil, and after that his fits grew frequent and violent. While in
these fits, his body was often hurled about very desperately,4 and he abused the minister and blasphemed his Maker. Sometimes
he would fall into dreadful fits, at other times he would talk Greek and Latin, though untaught. Sometimes his voice was Small
and shrill, at others hollow and hideous. Now he was as light as a bag of feathers, then as heavy as lead. At one time he upbraided
the ministers with their neglect, at others he said they had saved him from hell. He was weather-wise and money-wise by turns;
he could tell when there would be rain, and when he should receive presents. Sometimes he would vomit stones an inch and a half
Square, and in others of his trances there was a noise in his throat as if he was singing psalms inwardly. But the strongest mark
of demoniacal possession consisted in a lump which rose from the thick of his leg, about the size of a mole, and did work up like
such a creature towards the chest of his body till it reached his breast, when it was as big as a man's fist, and uttered strange voices.”
He opened his mouth at the beginning of his fits so often that it was thought spirits went in and out of him. In agility he was
unequalled, “especially in dancing, wherein he excelled all that the spectatours had seen, and all that mere mortals could perform ;
the Demoniac would, for six or seven times together, leap up so as that part of his Legs might be seen shaking and quavering above
the heads of the People, from which heights he oft fell down on his knees, which he long shivered and traverst on the ground at
least as nimbly as other men can twinckle or sparkle their Fingers, thence springing up in to's high leaps again, and then falling
on his Feet, which seem'd to reach the Earth, but with the gentlest and scarce perceivable touches when he made his highest leaps.”
And yet the divines by whom he was attended most unjustly rallied the devil for the want of skill in his pupil after this fashion :
“Cease, Dancing Satan, and be gone from him,” says the Rev. Mr. Carrington, addressing himself to the devil; “canst thou Dance
hours, within which time it was supposed that her imp would make the execution took place about the year 1654. We have attempted,
her a visit, and in that way betray her. but without success, to ascertain the date from the Criminal Records
1. At the assizes at Bury St. Edmond's, in 1664, Amy Dunny and in Lancaster Castle, which are very defective.—B.
Rose Cullender were tried before Sir Matthew, and, being convicted, * The Surey Demoniac, pp. 1, 2.
were hanged, both protesting that they were innocent. * Ibid. p. 4.
* The Doctor's book is dated Feb. 23, 1673, so that it is probable * Ibid. p. 60.
CHAP. XIV.
(The #igtorg of 3|ancashire. 207
no better, Satan? Ransack the old Records of all past times and places in thy memory, Canst thou not there find out some other
way of finer trampling? Pump thine invention dry | Cannot that universal Seed-plot of subtile Wiles and Stratagems spring up
one new method of cutting capers? Is this the top of skill and pride to shuffle feet and brandish knees thus, and to trip like a Doe
and skip like a Squirrel, and wherein differs thy leapings from the hoppings of a Frog, or bounces of a Goat, or friskings of a Dog,
or gesticulations of a Monkey And cannot a Palsey shake such a loose Leg as that? Dost not thou twirle like a Calf that has
the turn, and twitch up thy Houghs just like a spring-hault tit?” In some of his last fits he announced that he must either be
killed or cured before the 25th of March ; this, says the deposition of his father and mother and two of his sisters, proved true, for
on the 24th of that month he had his last fit, the devil being no longer able to withstand the means that were used with so much
vigour and perseverance to expel him, one of the most effectual of which was a medicine, prescribed in the way of his profession, by
Dr. Chew, a medical practitioner in the neighbourhood.
The Rev. Zach. Taylor asserts that the preachers, disappointed and mortified at their ill success in Dugdale's
case, gave it out that some of his connections were witches, and in contact with the devil, and that they
supposed was the cause why they had not been able to relieve him. Under this impression they procured
some of the family to be searched, that they might see if they had not teats or the devil's mark, and they
tried them by the test of saying the Lord’s prayer. Some remains of the evil spirit seemed, however, still to
have possessed Richard, for though after this he had no fits, yet once, when he had got too much drink, he
was after another manner than drunken persons usually are." In confirmation of which feats not only the
eight ministers, but twenty respectable inhabitants, affixed their attestation to a document prepared for the
purpose; and three of the magistrates of the district—namely, Hugh Lord Willoughby, Ralph Egerton, Esq.,
and Thomas Braddill, Esq.-received depositions from the attesting parties. This monstrous mass of absurdity,
superstition, and fraud—for it was beyond doubt a compound of them all—was exposed with success by the
Rev. Zach. Taylor, the bishop of Chester's curate at Wigan, one of the king's preachers in the county of
Lancaster; but the reverend divine mixed with his censures too much party asperity, insisting that the whole
was an artifice of the nonconformist ministers in imitation of the pretended miracles of the Catholic priests,
and likening it to the fictions of John Darrell, B.A., which had been practised a century before upon the
family of Mr. Starkie in the same county. Of the resemblance in many of its parts there can be no doubt,
but the names of the venerable Oliver Heywood and Thomas Jolly form a sufficient guarantee against any
imposition on their part ; and the probability is, that the ministers were the dupes of a popular superstition
in the hands of a dissolute and artful family.
Within living memory, the Superstitious terrors of witchcraft have prevailed in Lancashire to an extent
that has embittered the lives of the persons supposing themselves subject to this grievous visitation. These,
however, were only the remains of the popular mythology. During the sixteenth century, the whole region,
in some parts of the county, seemed contaminated with the presence of the witches; men and beasts were
supposed to languish under their charm ; and the delusion, which preyed alike on the learned and the vulgar,
did not allow any family to suppose that they were beyond the reach of the witch's wand. Was the family
visited by sickness, it was believed to be the work of an invisible agency, which in secret wasted the image
made in clay before the fire, or crumbled its various parts into dust ; did the cattle sicken and die, the witch
and the wizard were the authors of the calamity ; did the yeast refuse to perform the office of fermentation
either in the bread or in the beer, it was the consequence of a bad wish ; did the butter refuse to come, the
familiar was in the churn ; did the ship founder at sea, the wind of Boreas was blown by the lungless hag,
who had scarcely sufficient breath to cool her own pottage ; did the Ribble overflow its banks, the floods
descended from the congregated sisterhood at Malkin Tower; and the blight of the season, which consigned
the crops of the farmer to destruction, was the saliva of the enchantress, or the distillations from the blear-
eyed dame, who flew by night over the field in search of mischief. To refuse an alms to a haggard mendicant,
was to produce for the family that had the temerity to make the experiment an accumulation of the out-
pourings of the box of Pandora. To escape from terrors like these, no sacrifice was thought too great.
Superstitions begat cruelty and injustice; the poor and the rich were equally interested in obtaining a
deliverance; and the magistrate who resided in his mansion at Read, and the peasant who occupied the
humblest cot amongst the hills of Cliviger, were alike interested in abating the common nuisance.”
Nor was the situation of the witch more enviable than that of the individuals or the families over which
she exerted her influence. Linked by a species of infernal compact to an imaginary imp, she was shunned as
a common pest, or caressed only on the principle that certain of the Indian tribes pay homage to the devil.
The reputed witches themselves were frequently disowned by their families, feared and detested by their
neighbours, and hunted by the dogs as pernicious monsters. When in confinement, they were cast into the
* Surey Demoniac, p. 62. or arted witch ; eighth, the necromancer. “The Lancashire
witches'’ were principally fortune-tellers and conjurors. The
* According to Gaule, there were eight classes of witches dis-
tinguished by their operations: first, the diviner, gipsy, or fortune-
telling Witch ; second, the astrologian, star-gazing, planetary, prog-
nosticating witch ; third, the chanting, canting, or calculating
witch, who works by signs or numbers; fourth, the venefick, or
poisonous witch ; fifth, the exorcist, or conjuring witch; sixth, the
gastromantick Witch ; seventh, the magical, speculative, sciential,
securities against witchcraft were numerous, but the most popular
was the horse-shoe; and hence we see in Lancashire so many
thresholds ornamented with this counter-charm. Mr. Roby, in his
“Traditions of Lancashire,” has treated the subject with great
vivacity and spirit; and his legendary tales serve to convey to the
mind a vivid impression of the effects of the popular superstition in
other times.
208
(The #istory of £ancashire. CHAP. XIV.
ponds, by way of trial; punctured by bodkins, to discover their imp-marks; subjected to deprivation of food,
and kept in perpetual motion, till confessions were obtained from a distracted mind. On their trials, they
were listened to with incredulity and horror; and consigned to the gallows with as little pity as the basest
of malefactors. Their imaginary crimes created a thirst for their blood; and people in all stations, from the
highest to the lowest, attended the trials at Lancaster, as we have seen from Mr. Potts's record of the criminal
proceedings there, with an intensity of interest that their mischievous powers, now divested of their sting, so
naturally excited.
The belief in witchcraft and demoniacal possession was confined to no particular sect or persuasion; the
Roman Catholics, the members of the established Church of England, the Presbyterians, and Independents,
and even the Methodists, though a sect of more recent standing, have all fallen into this delusion ; and yet
each denomination has upbraided the other with gross superstition, and not unfrequently with wilful fraud.
Since the light of general knowledge has chased away the mists of this once generally prevailing error, we all
Smile at these bitter criminations and recriminations, which ought to guard us against the commission of
similar faults. It is due, however, to the ministers of the established church to say, that they were amongst
the first of our public writers to denounce the belief in witchcraft, with all its attendant mischiefs; and the
names of Dr. Harsnet, afterwards archbishop of York; Dr. John Webster, the detector of Robinson the
Pendle Forest witch-hunter; of Zach. Taylor, one of the king's preachers for the county of Lancaster; and of
Dr. Hutchinson, chaplain in ordinary to his majesty George I., are all entitled to the public gratitude for
their efforts to explode these pernicious superstitions, though their merit is in some degree tarnished by an
overweening solicitude to cast the imputation of ignorant credulity from their own community, and to fix it
exclusively upon others. For upwards of a century, the sanguinary and superstitious laws of James I, dis-
graced the English statute-book; but in the 9th year of George II. (1735-6) a law was enacted, repealing the
statute of James I., and prohibiting any prosecution, suit, or proceeding against any person or persons for
witchcraft, sorcery, enchantment, or conjuration. In this way the doctrine of witchcraft, with all its attendant
errors, was finally exploded, except amongst the most ignorant of the vulgar.”
To return to the chronological order of our history.—In the year 1617, James I., on his return from
Scotland to London, passed through the heart of Lancashire, and there, in the midst of joy and hilarity,
sowed the seeds of discontent so wide and deep as to shake the stability of the throne. Having arrived at
Brougham Castle on the 6th of August he proceeded by way of Appleby and Wharton to Kendal; here he
stopped two nights, when, entering Lancashire, he reached Hornby Castle” on the 11th, and from thence
proceeded to Ashton Hall, the mansion of Thomas, first Lord Gerard; having remained here one night he
advanced to Myerscough, where the royal train stopped two days, to enjoy the pleasures of the chase in the
forest. Then, taking the route through Preston, he went to Hoghton Tower, where he sojourned for three
days; thence he proceeded to Lathom House, where he became the guest for two nights of the earl of Derby ;
and from thence proceeded by Bewsey and Vale Royal, by easy stages, to London. Of the royal tour through
Lancashire, Nicholas Assheton, Esq. of Downham, in the parish of Whalley, has preserved the following
account in his private journal:—
“[1617] June 1, Sunday. Mr. C. P. moved my brother [in-law] Sherborne from Sir Richard Hoghton, to do him such favour,
countenance, grace and curtesie, as to weare his clothe, and attend him at Hoghton, at the King's coming in August, as divers other
gentlemen were moved and would. He likewise moved mee. I answered I would bee willing, and readie to doe Sir Richard anie
Sery ICé.
“August 11. My brother Sherborne his taylor brought him a suit of apparall, and us two others, and a livery cloake from
Sir Richard Hoghton, that we should attend him at the King's coming, rather for his grace and reputation, shoeing [showing] his
neibors' love, than anie exacting of mean service.”
* See the Bull of Pope Innocent VIII. to the inquisitors of Al-
main, empowering them to detect and burn witches. The Romish
church appointed penances for converted witches; and Cranmer,
the Protestant archbishop of Canterbury, in his articles of visitation,
directs his clergy, in 1549, to inquire after any persons that use
“charms, Sorcery, enchantments, witchcraft, soothsaying, or any
like craft, invented by the devil; ” which instructions were renewed
in Elizabeth's reign, with the addition, “ especially in time of
women’s travail.” Richard Baxter, a divine in deserved estimation
amongst the nonconformists, was a firm believer in the possession
and dispossession of devils, and his “World of Spirits” abounds
with proofs of his firm conviction of the reality of this popular de-
lusion.
* CopF OF WITCHCRAFT.—By the 33 Henry VIII. cap. 8 (1541)
persons practising witchcraft are declared guilty of a capital felony.
This act was repealed by 1 Edw. VI. (1547). By the 5th of Eliz. cap.
16 (1562), persons using invocations of spirits, etc., by which death
shall ensue, are made liable to be punished with death ; otherwise,
liable to fine and imprisonment. By 1 James I. cap. 12 (1603),
persons invoking or consulting with evil spirits, taking up dead
bodies for purposes of witchcraft (Seer Edward Kelley's offence), or
practising witchcraft, to the harm of others, are declared guilty of
a capital felony : by the 21st of the same king, cap. 28 (1623), the
crimes of declaring by witchcraft where treasure is hidden, pro-
curing unlawful love, or attempting to hurt cattle or persons, are
rendered punishable for the first offence by pillory, and for the
second by death. By 9 Geo. II. cap. 5 (1735), all the statutes
against witchcraft are repealed.
* Mr. Nichols, in his “Progresses of King James I.” has mis-
taken the ancient seat of the Monteagles for Hornby Castle in York-
shire, the seat of the duke of Leeds, and described the latter instead
of the former.
* This Journal has since been edited by the Rev. Canon Raines,
and printed for the Chetham Society, as vol. 14. Of their
series.—H.
* Although the gradations of society were then such that the
gentry of England disdained not, on occasions like the present, to
wear the livery of the rank immediately above them, yet there is
an evident anxiety in Mr. Assheton's mind to have it understood
that his appearing in Sir Richard Hoghton's livery was merely as a
token for good-will.—Dr. Whitaker.
CHAP. XIV, (Tije Đistorg of 3Lancashire. 209
“August 12. Coz Townley came and broke his fast at Dunnoe, and went away. To Mirescough. Sir Richard gone to meet
the King; we after him to —. There the King slipt into the [Myerscough] Forest another way, and we after, and overtook him,
and went past to the Yate ; then Sir Richard light [alighted]; and when the King came in his coach, Sir Richard stept to his side,
and tould him ther his Majestie's Forrest began, and went some ten roodes to the left, and then to the Lodge. The King hunted,
and killed a buck. - -
“August 13. To Mirescough, the Court. Cooz. Assheton came with as gentlemanlie servants as any was ther, and himself
excellently well appointed. The King killed five bucks. The Kinge's speeche about libertie to pipeing and honest recreation. We
that were in Sir Richard's livery had nothing to do but riding upp and downe. -
“August 14. Us three to Preston ; ther preparation made for Sir Gilbert Hoghton, and other Knights. Wee were desyred to
be merrie, and at nyght were soe. Steeven Hamerton and wyffe, and Mrs. Doll Lyster Supped with us att our lodging. All Preston
full. - -
“August 15. The King came to Preston. Ther, at the Crosse, Mr. Breares the lawyer made a Speeche, and the Corporation
presented him with a bowle ; and then the King went to a Banquet in the Town Hall, and so away to Houghton ; ther a speech
made.” After the delivery of the Speech, as Mr. Assheton continues, the King “hunted, and killed a stag. Wee attend on the
Lords’ table [i.e. at dinner]. - -
“August 16. Hoghton. The King hunting ; a great companie ; killed affore dinner a brace of staggs. Verie hott ; so he
went in to dinner. Wee attend the Lords’ table, and about four o'clock the King went downe to the allome-mynes, and was ther
an hower, viewed them preciselie, and then went and shott at a stagg, and missed. Then my Lord Compton had lodged two brace.
The King shott again, and brake the thigh-bone. A dogg long in coming, and my Lord Compton shott again, and killed him [the
stagl. Late in to Supper. .
“August 17. Hoghton. Wee served the Lords with biskett, wyne, and jellie. The Bushopp of Chester, Dr. Morton,
preached before the King. To dinner. About four o'clock, ther was a rush-bearing and pipeing afore them, affore the King in the
Middle Court. Then to supp. Then, about ten or eleven o'clock a Maske of Noblemen, Knights, Gentlemen, and Courtiers, afore
the King, in the middle round in the garden. Some Speeches ; of the rest, dancing the Huckler, Tom Bedlo, and the Cowp Justice
of Peace. -
“August 18. The King [after knighting, at Hoghton Tower, Sir Arthur Lake of Middlesex, and Sir Cecil Trafford of Lan-
cashire] went away about twelve to Lathome. There was a man almost slayne with fighting. Wee back with Sir Richard. He to
seller, and drunk with us kindlie in all manner of friendlie Speche. Preston ; as merrie as Robin Hood and all his fellowes.—
August 19. All this morning wee plaid the Bacchanalians.” -
At the seat of William, sixth earl of Derby, Lathom House, the king rested two nights; and on the 20th
of August, before his departure, knighted Sir William Massy, Sir Robert Bendloes, Sir Gilbert Clifton, Sir
John Talbot of Preston, Sir Gilbert Ireland of the Hutt, and Sir Edward Olbaston, all of Lancashire.
The king then proceeded to Bewsey Hall, the seat of Thomas Ireland, Esq., on whom his majesty, before
his departure, conferred knighthood, as he did on Sir Lewis Pemberton of Hertfordshire."
On that Sunday on which the king was at Hoghton Tower a petition was presented to his majesty,
signed principally by the Lancashire peasants, tradespeople, and servants, representing “that they were debarred
from lawful recreations upon Sunday, after evening prayers, and upon holy days, and praying that the restric-
tions imposed in the late reign might be withdrawn.” The origin of this complaint, as we have seen,” was
laid in the time of Elizabeth, who, in order to reform the manners of the people, instituted a high commission
in the year 1579. The commissioners were—Henry earl of Derby, Henry earl of Huntington, William lord
bishop of Chester, and others; and at their sittings, which were held at Manchester, they issued orders
throughout the county against “pipers and minstrels playing, making and frequenting bear-baiting and bull-
baiting, on the Sabbath days, or upon any other days in time of divine service; and also against Superstitious
ringing of bells, wakes, and common feasts; drunkenness, gaming, and other vicious and unprofitable pursuits.”
These restrictions the royal visitor thought incompatible with the privilege of his subjects, whose complaints,
as he says, “We have heard with our own ears, and which grievances we promised to redress.” In the
fulfilment of this pledge, he issued a proclamation,” setting forth—
“That in his progress through Lancashire he found it necessary to rebuke some puritans and precise people, and took order that
the said unlawful carriage should not be used by any of them hereafter, in the prohibiting and unlawfully punishing of his good
people for using their lawful recreations and honest exercises upon Sundays after service.” These puritans his majesty conceived
were Jewishly inclined, because they affected to call Sunday the Sabbath day. The proclamation proceeds to declare that the king
had found that two sorts of people within his county of Lancaster much infested that county—viz, papists and puritans, and that
they had maliciously traduced and calumniated his just and honourable proceedings; he had therefore thought proper to clear and
make his pleasure manifest to all his good people in these parts; and his majesty's pleasure was that the bishop of the diocese should
take strict order with all the puritans and precisians within the county of Lancaster, and either constrain them to conform them-
selves, or to leave the country, according to the laws of this kingdom and canons of this church ; and as for his good people's
lawful recreation, his pleasure was, that after the end of divine service they be not disturbed, letted, or discouraged from any lawful
recreation, such as dancing, either men or women; archery for men, leaping, vaulting, or any other such harmless recreation ; nor
from having of May-games, Whitson-ales, and Morice-dances, and the setting up of May-poles, and other sports therewith used, so
as the same be had in due and convenient time, without impediment or neglect of divine service ; and that women should have
leave to carry rushes to the church for the decorating of it, according to their old custom ; but, withal, his majesty did here account
still as prohibited all unlawful games to be used upon Sundays only, as bear and bull-baitings, interludes, and, at all times, in the
meaner sort of people, by law prohibited, bowling. And, likewise, did bar from this benefit and liberty all such known recusants,
either men or women, as did abstain from coming to church or divine service, they being unworthy of any lawful recreation after
the said service, that would not first come to the church and serve God; prohibiting, in like sort, the said recreations to any that,
though conformed in religion, were not present in the church at the service of God, before their going to the said recreations !
Subsequently his majesty further said—“ that his loyal subjects in all other parts of the kingdom did
suffer in the same kind, though perhaps not in the same degree as in Lancashire, and he did therefore pub-
lish a declaration to all his loving subjects, concerning lawful sports to be used on Sundays and festivals,”
* Nichols's “Progresses of King James,” vol. iii. p. 405. * Chap. xiii. * May 24, 1618.
2 E
210 Qſìje 39tgtorg of £antagijire. CHAP. XIV.
which was printed and published by his royal command in the year 1618, under the title of “The Book of
Sports,” which the bishops were ordered to cause to be read and published in all the parish churches of their
respective dioceses, on pain of punishment in the high commission court. Against this profanation of the
sanctuary, Abbot, the intrepid archbishop of Canterbury, was amongst the first to enter his protest ; and
being at Croydon on the day that it was first to be read in the churches, he positively forbade the officiating
minister to obey the royal command.
In the early part of the reign of Charles I. that monarch, uninstructed by events, thought fit, “for the
ease, comfort, and recreation of his well-deserving people, to ratify and republish this his blessed father's
declaration;” and the reason assigned was, “ because of late, in some counties of the kingdom, his majesty
finds that, under pretence of taking away abuses, there hath been a general forbidding, not only of ordinary
meetings, but of the feasts of the dedication of churches, commonly called wakes.” His majesty therefore
expressed his royal will and pleasure, that these feasts, with others, should be observed ; and that the justices
of the peace, and the judges of assize, should make known his gracious intentions, and that the bishops should
cause his will to be published in all the parish churches of their several and respective dioceses. The disgust
felt by some of the clergy and many of the laity in Lancashire, and in all other parts of the kingdom, at these
reiterated injunctions to violate, as they considered it, the sanctity of the Sabbath, was one of the causes of
the civil wars, the approach of which was already foreseen by men of political sagacity. By others the
license was hailed as a privilege. The effects of the “Book of Sports,” at the end of two centuries, are still
visible in Lancashire; and, as Dr. Whitaker has truly observed, there is scarcely a village in the county
which does not exhibit symptoms of obedience to the injunction of “honest recreation.”
In addition to the honours already mentioned as conferred upon the gentry of the county of Lancaster
by King James, that sovereign knighted Sir Thomas Tildesley on 15th of June 1616 at Wimbleton; the same
year Sir Hugh Parker, son of Lord Monteagle, was made a Knight of the Bath, in honour of the creation of
Prince Charles. Sir Gilbert Gerrard, of Harrow on the Hill, a junior branch of the family of Gerrard of Bryn,
in Lancashire, was in 1620 advanced to the rank of a baronet; and Sir Ralph Ashton of Lever and Sir John
Boteler attained the same honour in the summer of that year. For Sir Richard Hoghton the king had the
highest esteem. The name of this gentleman appears in many of the royal masques and public entertain-
ments; and amongst the archives of the family a note, with the royal autograph, is preserved.
It does not appear that the paternal government of King James, combined as it was with the creation
of the baronets of Ulster, had placed Ireland in a state of tranquillity, or even of security; for, near the end
of this king's reign, we find the lords of the council writing a letter to the earl of Derby, as lord lieutenant,
requiring that all Irishmen, passengers from any port in Lancashire or Cheshire, to their own country, should
take the oath of allegiance, on pain of being sent to London in safe custody for contumacy.
CHAP, XV. (Iije Đistory of £antagijire.
2] I
CHAPTER XV.
Contests between Charles I. and his Parliament—Lancashire Members—Lords-Lieutenant—Breaking out of the Civil
Wars in Lancashire—County Meeting—Summons of Lord Strange to Manchester—Musters made by him in
Lancashire—Impeachment of Lord Strange—Meeting of Loyalists at Preston—Blowing-up of Hoghton Tower—
Campaign of 1643—Act of Sequestration—Summons of the Duke of Newcastle to Manchester: Answer—
Military Operations in Lonsdale Hundred—Assembly of Divines—Campaign of 1644–Siege of Lathom House ;
of Bolton ; of Liverpool—Deplorable Condition of the People of Lancashire—Seal and Patronage of the
Duchy–Military Possession of the County by the Parliamentary Forces—Catalogue of the Lords, Knights, and
Gentlemen of Lancashire who compounded for their Estates in 1646—Classical Presbyteries of Lancashire—
Campaign of 1648–Battle of Preston—Execution of King Charles I–Campaign of 1651—Battle of Wigan
Lane—Fatal Consequences of the Battle of Worcester—The Earl of Derby made Prisoner–Tried and Executed
—Duchy and County Palatine Courts—Summons of Oliver Cromwell of a Lancashire Member—Sir George
Booth's Failure to raise the Royal Standard—General Monk's Success—Restoration of Charles II.-(A.D. 1625-1660).
ºN the accession of Charles I. in 1625, the ill effects arising from the neglect of that clear
sº understanding which ought to have taken place between his predecessor and the people of
º) England, on the change of the Tudor for the Stuart dynasty, soon became manifest. The
}}} & evils of this great political blunder were exhibited in the arbitrary levy of ship-money without
g) the authority of parliament; in the revival of the forest-laws, the cause of so many
Sº Gº!, prosecutions, and of so much contention in ancient times in Lancashire; and in the mistaken
cy of the new king in ratifying and enforcing the obnoxious Book of Sports, which served, both here and
in several other counties of the kingdom, as a touchstone to distinguish, and as an apple of discord to divide,
the high-church party and the puritans. To sustain these extraordinary proceedings, and to put down all
opposition, the council-table and the star-chamber' enlarged their jurisdiction to a vast extent,” “holding (as
Thucydides said to the Athenians) for honourable that which pleased, and for just that which profited.” The
king and the ardent friends of prerogative wished to govern the country without a parliament, so deep was
their disgust at the resistance made to the king's demands for grants from the people; and the supporters of
the privileges of parliament resolutely determined to uphold these bulwarks of the national liberties, and
persevered in doing so till the sword was drawn, and they came to govern without a king, Charles, having
exhausted every expedient to raise money by his own authority, was obliged, after an intermission of eleven
years, to issue his writs, calling together a parliament, which assembled, according to summons, on the 13th
of April 1640. Instead of proceeding to grant supplies, the parliament, which was composed principally of
country gentlemen, made it their first business to demand a redress of grievances, and nothing but a speedy
dissolution of the parliament, after it had existed for three weeks, prevented them from stopping that part of the
public supplies which arose out of ship-money.” The king and his ministers struggled on for six months longer
without parliamentary aid; but on the 3d of November, fresh writs having been issued in the meantime, the
Long Parliament was convened, and their first business was to renew the cry of grievance and the demand for
redress. This assembly, so memorable in English history, consisted of five hundred members, and the following
is a list of the county and borough members for Lancashire:–
Lancashire.—Ralph Ashton, esq. and Roger Kirby, esq.
Lancaster.—John Harrison, knt. and Thomas Fanshaw, esq.
Preston.—Richard Shuttleworth, esq. and Thomas Standish, esq.
* A riot, not very dissimilar to that which occurred in 1589, took Lancaster, £30; borough of Liverpool, É25; borough of Wigan,
place at the manor-house of Lea, in the parish of Preston, in 1633,
for which the offenders were prosecuted in the court of star-chamber,
where Sir Richard Hoghton was fined £100, and other two of the
rioters #50 each. -
* Clarendon's Hist, of the Rebellion, book i.
3 The first writ for levying ship-money was issued by Charles I.
in 1636, and the quotas required to be contributed by the several
places afford some standard whereby to estimate the wealth and
importance of those counties, cities, and towns, nearly two centuries
ago. The contribution of Lancashire was one ship of 400 tons, 160
men, and £1000 in money ; borough of Preston, £40 ; borough of
£50; borough of Clithero, £7: 10s; borough of Newton, £7: 10s.
Yorkshire contributed two ships, 600 tons, and £12,000; Hull,
#140 ; Leeds, £200 ; Bristol, one ship, 100 tons, 40 men, and
£1000; and London contributed seven ships, 4000 tons, 1560 men,
and six months' pay. This impost, with some modifications,
continued for three successive years, and the arrears due from Lan-
cashire at the end of that period were £172 : 10s.
In this year (1636) a levy of troops was made upon ten of the
counties in the north and centre of England, amounting to 19,483
foot and 1233 horse, to which Lancashire was required to contribute
420 foot and 50 dragoons, and Yorkshire 6720 foot and 60 horse.




2
1
2
(ſhe #igturn of £antaghire.
CHAP. XV,
Newton.—William Ashurst, esq. and Roger Palmer, knt.
Wigan.-Orlando Bridgman, esq. and Alexander Rigby, esq.
Clithero.—Ralph Ashton, esq. and Richard Shuttleworth, gent.
Liverpool.-John Moore, esq. and Richard Wyn, knt. and bart.
One of the first acts of the House of Commons was to determine “whether the king should be permitted
to govern the people of England by his sole will and pleasure, as an absolute monarch, and without the
assistance of parliament, as he had lately done, or whether he should be compelled to admit the two houses
of parliament to a participation in the legislative authority with him, according to the constitution of England
ever since the first institution of the House of Commons in the reign of Henry III.” The decision of the
house it was not difficult to anticipate. It declared that the two houses of parliament formed an integral
part of the government of the kingdom, and that to attempt to govern without them was an arbitrary and
unconstitutional exercise of the royal authority.
In the same spirit an act was passed, wherein it was declared, that the court of star-chamber was an
arbitrary and tyrannical tribunal, unknown to the ancient laws of the country, and in violation of the provi-
sions of the great charter, and that it should be finally and for ever abolished from and after the 1st of August
1641. By the same act it was declared that the jurisdiction used and exercised in the star-chamber of the
duchy of Lancaster, held before the chancellor and council of that court, should also be abolished on the 1st
of August." The abolition of the court of star-chamber was followed by an act in which the county of
Lancaster was almost equally interested; this was the act defining the limits of the forests in England, and
thereby terminating the exactions so long existing of the justices in Eyre. In this way, the tyrannical opera-
tion of the forest-laws in this county was brought to an end, and the people were no longer subjected to have
their estates, and even their houses, invaded by that odious jurisdiction.
The complaint of grievances was not confined to the House of Commons, but extended also to the
constituent body; and the knights, squires, merchants, gentlemen, and freeholders of this county, presented a
petition to parliament, representing that a gross breach of privilege had taken place at the election of knights
of the shire for the county of Lancaster, unparalleled at any election in the kingdom.” The petitioners also
complained, as they had done twelve months before, of other grievances, and prayed that such persons as
were found to have been instrumental in bringing on arbitrary and insolent government might make repara-
tion to their country, and from henceforth be excluded from the exercise of that authority.” This petition
was entrusted to a delegation of gentlemen from the county of Lancaster, who were, contrary to the usage of
the present time, admitted to the house to present it, and informed by the speaker that the house found this
document to contain many weighty considerations, with great expressions of care and affection to the common-
wealth, and that the contents should be taken into serious consideration."
The parliament had alreadyassumed the prerogative of nominating both the lords-lieutenant and the deputy-
lieutenants of the counties; and hence we find that, in the same year that the Lancashire petition was received,
Lord Strange was nominated by that authority lord-lieutenant of the county palatine of Chester, and Lord
Wharton lord-lieutentant of the county palatine of Lancaster; and the names of Sir George Booth, Mr. John
Moore, Sir Thomas Stanley, Mr. Alexander Rigby of Preston, Mr. Dodding, Mr. Egerton, Mr. Ralph Ashton
of Middleton, Mr. J. Hales, Sir William Brereton, Mr. Thomas Standish of Duxbury, Sir Ralph Ashton of
Downham, Mr. Robert Hide, Mr. Thomas Byrch, Mr. Edmund Hopwood, and Mr. Jo. Bradshaw, were added,
by nomination of the house, to be deputy-lieutenants of the county palatine of Lancaster.”
The storm, which had been long gathering, was now ready to burst; and in this portentous year (1641)
Mr. Ashton, Mr. Shuttleworth, Mr. Rigby, and Mr. Moore, members of parliament, were enjoined by the House
of Commons to proceed into the county of Lancaster to see the ordinance of the militia put in force in this
county. These orders were speedily followed by others to put the county in a state of defence, for which
purpose forces were sent into Lancashire, and directions were given to the deputy-lieutenants, and other
officers in the county, to disarm and secure all recusants and other “malignants.” That offices of public
trust might be filled by men devoted to the parliament, Edward Lord Newburgh, chancellor of the duchy of
Lancaster, was directed by the House of Commons forthwith to issue out commissions of peace to Sir Ralph
Ashton, bart. ; Ralph Ashton of Middleton, Rich. Holland, John Bradshaw, William Radcliffe, Rich. Shuttle-
worth, John Braddell, John Starkey, esquires; Sir Tho. Stanley, bart.; Jo. Holcrofte, Tho. Standish, Geo.
This accumulation of tracts was formed with great pains and at
much expense, and so privately as to escape the most diligent search
of the Protector, who anxiously wished to obtain them. To prevent
discovery, they were sent into Surrey and Essex, and finally lodged
with Dr. Barlow, the library-keeper at Oxford, to whom the col-
lectors confided them. On his suggestion they were removed to the
king's library, as their most fit depository, and presented finally
by the royal munificence to the British Museum.
* Rot. Parl. 16 Charles I. p. 2. nu, 6.
* In allusion to an illegal interference in the return of members,
by Lord Strange—“Lancashire's Valley of Achor,” p. 2.
* Treatise in the King's Collection in the British Museum,
inscribed “Gift of George III.” This collection contains, among
other treasures, all the books and pamphlets from the beginning of
the year 1640 to the coronation of Charles II. 1661, and nearly one
hundred manuscripts never yet in print, the whole comprising 30,000
books and tracts uniformly bound, consisting of 20,000 volumes;
the catalogue of which is contained in twelve small folio volumes,
each treatise being dated according to the day of its publication.
4 Journals of the House of Commons, March 12, 1641.
5 Ibid. 1641.
CHAP. XV. (The #istorm of £antagjire. 213
Dodding, Tho. Fell, and Peter Egerton, esquires. And it was further ordered that his lordship should imme-
diately discharge Sir Gilbert Hoghton, knight and baronet; Robert Holt of Stubley, Alexander Rigby of
Burgh, John Greenhalgh, Edm. Assheton, Sir Alexander Radcliffe, William Farington, Orlando Bridgman,
Sir Edw. Wrightington, and Roger Kirkeby, esquires, from being further employed as commissioners of the
peace within the said county.”
That the garrison in the interest of parliament in Manchester might be supplied with ordinance, Mr.
Ralph Ashton was furnished with the speaker's order for the conveyance of four small pieces of brass cannon
to that place, with one similar piece for the Safety of his own house at Middleton. It was further ordered
that one thousand dragoons should be raised for the safety of the county of Lancaster, in compliance with the
wishes and desires of the well-affected people of that county, who, foreseeing the danger with which they were
menaced, petitioned parliament for protection and support against “the papists and other malignants” [the king
and his confidential advisers and adherents being virtually, though not expressly, included in the number] “who
had associated and raised great forces, both horse and foot, to oppress and distress the well-affected subjects in
the counties of York, Northumberland, Westmorland, and Cumberland, and in the counties palatine of Durham,
Chester, and Lancaster.” For carrying this purpose into effect, it was ordered by the house that all lords-
lieutenant, deputy-lieutenants, colonels, and other inhabitants of these counties, should associate themselves,
and mutually aid and assist one another by raising forces of horse and foot, and leading them into places
which should be most convenient and necessary; and, by all other good ways and means whatsoever, sup-
press and subdue the popish and malignant party in these counties, and preserve the peace of the kingdom
according to the order and declarations of parliament.” The preparations for civil war being now nearly
mature, it was ordered that lord-general the earl of Essex, commander of the parliamentary forces, should be
requested by parliament to appoint Lord Fairfax the commander-in-chief of the northern counties, in the
absence of his excellency, with power to make and appoint other officers. All these preparations naturally
required the sinews of war; it was therefore Ordered that money should be borrowed for the defence of Lan-
cashire, and that such money or plate as Mr. Thomas Case, or any other person duly qualified, should under-
write for the defence of this county, and the reduction of the malignant party here, should have the public
faith pledged for its repayment, with eight pounds per cent per annum interest—the money to be issued for
the use of the county by warrants under the hands of any four members of the House of Commons serving
for this county.’ Bills to the amount of four hundred thousand pounds, to be disbursed for the protection of
Lancashire and Cheshire, were then issued, with the strict injunction that no part of this money should be
employed against the parliament, but preserved sacredly for its service. Instructions to this effect were sent
to the deputy-lieutenants of Lancashire, and the same instructions, mutatis mutandis, were sent to those of
Cheshire. Although the greatest exertions had been made to reinforce the English troops in Ireland, and Mr.
John Moore had been sent down by parliament with express instructions to Sir William Brereton, enjoining him
to transport the horse troops that were in Lancashire and Cheshire without delay to that country, the rebellion
and massacre, so memorable in the history of Ireland, took place this year (1641), and a great number of the re-
fugees sought an asylum in Lancashire. In the height of party rage the king was charged by his enemies with
being accessory to these atrocities; and this rumour, though totally unfounded, served still further to alienate
the affections of his subjects in all parts of the kingdom, and to aggravate the popular ferment in Lancashire.
The king now quitted London, and repaired to York (Jan. 1642), leaving parliament sitting. This
measure produced the most alarming apprehensions in every part of the country. Petitions from all quarters
were drawn up, and presented to his majesty, and, amongst others, a petition from the county palatine of
Lancaster, presented the 31st of May, and subscribed by sixty-four knights and esquires, fifty-five divines,
seven hundred and forty gentlemen, and of freeholders and others about seven thousand. In this document,
the petitioners, after expressing their assurance of his majesty's zeal for the Protestant religion, add—
“You have at once provided against all popish impieties and idolatries, and also against the growing danger of Anabaptists,
Brownists, and other novelties; all which piety, love, and justice, we beseech God to reward into your own bosom. But yet, most
gracious sovereign, there is one thing that Sads our hearts, and hinders the perfection of our happiness, which is, the difference and
misunderstanding between your majesty and your parliament, whereby the hearts of your subjects are filled with fears and jealousies;
justice neglected, sacred ordinances profaned, and trading impaired, to the impoverishment of many of your liege people ; for the
removal whereof we cannot find any lawful means, without your majesty's assistance and direction.”
To this dutiful and loyal address, his majesty replied from his court at York—That it was a great con-
tentment to him to find so many true sons of the church of England; and that he took in very good part their
desire of a good understanding between his majesty and the two houses of parliament, which it had always
been his wish to maintain. About the same time a petition from the knights, esquires, ministers, gentlemen,
and freeholders, of the county of Lancaster, was sent to the king at York, by the party attached to the
parliament, in which, after pointing out to his majesty the great evil that was likely to arise to the kingdom
from his absence from parliament, they entreat his majesty, for the honour and safety, as well as for the
peace and welfare of his dominions, “to return to his great council, in whom the nation had so far confided,
1 Journals of the House of Commons, October 24, 1641. * Ibid. Nov. 17, 1641. 3 Ibid. Nov. 22, 1641.
214
Çije Đigturn of £ancagüire, CHAP, XV.
that they had entrusted them with their lives, liberties, and estates.” To this petition the answer of the
king was, that he had not gone from his parliament, but that he had been driven from them. The parlia-
ment, anxious to possess themselves of the prerogatives of the crown, as well as of their own privileges,
requested the king to remove Sir John Byron from the lieutenancy of the Tower, and to place the militia of
the kingdom at their disposal. To the first of these requests, the king replied that he had confided the
łieutenancy of the Tower to a gentleman of unquestionable reputation and known fortune, and that he did
not expect to have been called upon to remove him without any particular charge against him ; and as to
the militia, that force was, in virtue of the royal prerogative, subject to the king's command, though he
should be ready to listen to any well-digested proposition on the subject that might be submitted to him.'
Notwithstanding this answer, the parliament so far usurped the royal functions as to issue an ordinance for
assuming the power over the militia of the kingdom. A strong party still existed in Lancashire in favour of
the king, to check which an ordinance was issued by parliament for levying money on the estates of the
“malignants,” and Mr. Ashton was appointed to prepare the necessary documents. At the same time it was
declared, by a species of anticipation, but on no less authority than that of the two houses of parliament,
that many desperate and ill-disposed persons in the county of Lancaster had been in actual war and
rebellion against the government; it was therefore ordered, that the committee formerly named to be
assessors, should be authorised to seize and take all rents, moneys, houses, goods, and plate, of the malignants,
rendering an account thereof to parliament ;” and it was further ordered, that the tenants and debtors of the
malignants should pay their rents and debts into the hands of the committees appointed by parliament,
whose receipts should be a full and legal discharge of the debts.
On the 20th of June 1642, Sir John Girlington, the high-sheriff of Lancashire, convened a meeting, by
the king's command, to be held at Preston, for the purpose of promulgating the Lancashire petition, and the
king's answer, together with his declarations. At this meeting, Lord Strange and Lord Molyneux attended,
along with Sir George Middelton, Sir Alexander Radcliffe, Mr. Tildesley of Myerscough, Mr. William Faring-
ton, and many others of the king's party; and Mr. Alexander Rigby and Mr. Shuttleworth, who had been sent
into the county by parliament as members of the committee for the House of Commons, with several of the new
deputy-lieutenants appointed by parliament, also appeared. The meeting being too large to be contained in
any of the public buildings of the town, it was adjourned by the sheriff to Preston Moor. Here the pro-
ceedings soon became so tumultuous, that the sheriff departed with about four hundred of his friends,
exclaiming, “All those that are for the king, go with us”—“for the king ! for the king !” Mr. Rigby and
his friends, in reply exclaimed, “For the king, and for the parliament 1" which appears to have been the
more popular cry. Here the terms Cavalier and Roundhead were first applied in Lancashire, and they soon
became as familiar here as they had for some time been in London." While these proceedings were taking
place upon the moor, Mr. Farington conveyed away several barrels of gunpowder, which had been collected
at Preston. Soon afterwards Lord Strange, by virtue of the commission of array, seized the magazines of
the county of Lancaster, appointed for the use of the Lancashire militia, which he determined to detain, in
contravention of a resolution of the House of Commons, requiring him to deliver them up into the hands of
the deputy-lieutenants." At the same time an attempt was made by Sir Alexander Radcliffe and Mr.
Thomas Prestwich, two of the commissioners of array, and by Mr. Nicholas Moseley, and Mr. Thomas
Danson, the under-sheriff, to seize a quantity of ammunition in Manchester, for the use of the royal party;
but in this they were disappointed, owing to the vigilance of Mr. Ashton of Middleton, Sir Thomas
Stanley, and several of the deputy-lieutenants, who removed the powder and match to a place of security,
and in that way preserved them for the use of the parliamentary forces. At Liverpool the Cavaliers were
more successful, having a few days before seized thirty barrels of powder in that port. The two houses
of parliament, in order to mark their sense of the conduct of Sir John Girlington, Sir Geo. Middleton,
and Sir Edward Fitton, summoned them all to London as delinquents; and Lord Strange was, by the
Same authority, required to deliver up into the hands of the deputy-lieutenants, that part of the magazine
of the county of Lancaster which had been seized by his lordship. The march of the king, at the head
of his troops, from York to Hull, where Sir John Hotham closed the gates and refused to admit him into
the garrison, was considered as the commencement of the civil wars; and the parliament, with that prudent
foresight for which they were so much distinguished, issued an ordinance directing that forty barrels of
* Lord Clarendon's History of the Rebellion, book iv.
* Journals of the House of Commons, February 15, 1642.
* Mr. Alexander Rigby’s letter, dated June 24, 1642.
* Before the king left London, his palace at Whitehall was fre-
quently beset with petitioners, some of whom expressed their com-
plaints in strong terms of discontent ; to allay the ferment, the
complainants were frequently struck, and sometimes wounded, by a
kind of voluntary royal guard, composed of disbanded soldiers, who
rallied round his majesty, waiting for military employment. The
haughty carriage of the guards procured for them the name of
Cavaliers, while the persons who surrounded the palace, owing to
their plain attire and undressed hair, were called Roundheads. In
time, these terms became party names; the king's supporters being
styled Cavaliers, and the adherents of the parliament Roundheads.
The term Malignants was also applied to the loyalists, when they
were in a state of active hostility against the parliament.
* This commission was issued by the king on the 10th of July
1642. The parliament was so strongly opposed to the measure,
that they stigmatised the commission as against the laws, and
denounced the commissioners as the betrayers of the liberty of the
subject.
* Resolution of the House of Commons, June 27, 1642.
CHAP. XV. Qſìje #igturn of 3|ancašijire. 215
gunpowder should be sent from the stores of the Tower of London, for the service of their supporters in the
county of Lancaster. James, Lord Strange, who was then at York in attendance upon the king, was
appointed by his majesty lord-lieutenant of the counties of Lancaster and Chester, and was required forth-
with to repair to the seat of his lieutenancy, to put in force the commission. These hostile measures, under
the commission of array, were taken in contravention of an express order of the two houses of parliament,
by which the high-sheriff of the county of Lancaster, and the sheriffs of other counties, were commanded to
suppress the rising or coming together of any soldiers, horse or foot, by any commission from his majesty,
without the consent of parliament, and all persons whatsoever were forbidden to exercise any such commission
or warrant for levying soldiers, or gathering them together, without their consent.
On the return of Lord Strange from York to Lathom Hall on the 4th of July, his lordship determined to
secure the town of Manchester for the king, and with this view he required the inhabitants to give up the
magazine which they had accumulated against the approaching storm ; but this they declined, on the ground
that if they surrendered their arms and ammunition in these perilous times, they would be deprived of the
means of defending their own persons and property. Finding that his object was not to be obtained by
negotiation, he had recourse to force of arms, and a skirmish ensued, in which his lordship, after losing twenty-
seven of his men, and killing eleven of the inhabitants, was obliged to withdraw from the place." This was the
first direct blow struck in those civil wars, which for several years spread so much distraction through the
country, and brought in the end both Lord Strange and his sovereign to the block. The 15th of the same
month was also a memorable day in the annals of Lancashire. On that occasion, Lord Strange was invited
to a public entertainment by the loyal party of Manchester, designated as the Cayaliers. Here the high-
sheriff read the commission of array, though interdicted by the parliament. While the company were in the
banqueting-room, Captain Holcroft and Captain Birch, deputy-lieutenants of the county, of the parliamentary
or Roundhead party, entered the town with their forces, and beat to arms. His lordship quitted the repast
to muster the four hundred troops by which he was attended, and a skirmish took place, in which a man
of the name of Richard Percivall of Kirkman's Hulme, a linen webster (weaver), was killed by the royalists.
On the departure of Lord Strange from York, it had been determined by the king in council that the royal
standard should be raised at Warrington; and after the affair at Manchester, his lordship mustered the
county in three places—on the heaths by Bury, the moor at Ormskirk, and the moor at Preston; at each of
which places twenty thousand men at least appeared in the field, most of them armed with pikes, muskets, or
other weapons. His lordship was proceeding into Chester and North Wales to effect the same service, when
he was checked in his career by an intimation from the king's council that these noisy musters which he had
made were pre-indications of his own ambitious design, and that it was not safe for his majesty to intrust
him with so much power.” To add to the indignity, his lordship was divested of the lieutenancy of Chester
and North Wales, and it was proposed to unite Lord Rivers, who had recently been made an earl, with him
in the lieutenancy of Lancashire. From this time, the intention of erecting the royal standard in Lancashire
was abandoned; and on the 22d of August his majesty, attended by Prince Rupert and a large cavalcade of
military and citizens, erected the standard at Nottingham Castle, amidst the cries of “God save the king.”
The war soon after became general; not only all religious denominations, but almost every class of persons,
interested themselves deeply in the issue. The nobility, for the most part, with the higher order of the
gentry, were for the king, and the principal part of their tenantry espoused the same cause. The freeholders
in general took the side of the parliament, and the manufacturers and traders were of the same party. The
army, which consisted principally of a kind of trained band or militia, inclined most to the parliament ; and
of the religionists, all the high churchmen, and a large majority of the Catholics, were on the side of the king;
while the Puritans in the church, and the Presbyterians and Independents out of it, espoused the popular
cause. It has been observed that in the civil wars between the houses of York and Lancaster this county
was not the scene of a single battle ; but during the contest now before us, no county in the kingdom was
more distinguished than Lancashire. -
After the Reformation, those Catholics who refused to take the oath of abjuration were stigmatised as
recusants and deprived of their arms, under an apprehension that they might be applied to an improper pur-
pose ;” but these persons, by one of the revolutions in parties which frequently take place, now espoused the
cause of loyalty with great zeal, and a number of the leading Catholics of Lancashire petitioned the king to
have the arms which had been taken from them re-delivered, or that they might furnish themselves with
competent weapons, to be used in these times of war and danger for the defence of the king, and the security
of their country and families. Amongst these petitioners, we find the names of Sir William Gerard, bart.,
Sir Cecil Trafford, knt., Thomas Clifton, Charles Townley, Christopher Anderton, John Cansfield, and others,
esquires, in the county of Lancaster. The answer returned by the king was of course most gracious, and com-
municated the royal will and pleasure that they should, with all possible speed, provide sufficient arms for
1 Records of Parliament. * Seaconibe. from Lancaster, armed with Swords and other offensive weapons, on
* On the 25th of May, a number of Catholics and others had which the high-sheriff, being called in, dispersed the assembly, and
assembled in a tumultuous manner on a plain about seven miles disarmed the Catholics.
216 (The #istorm of £ancashire. CHAP. XV.
themselves, their servants, and tenants, which they were authorised and required, during the war raised against
the king, to keep and use for his defence, and for the defence of themselves and their country, against all forces
and arms raised against the authority of the crown, by any ordinance or authority whatever. Lord Strange,
whose devotion to the royal cause was not to be extinguished by ingratitude on the one hand, or by alluring
offers on the other, continued to exert himself to the utmost, in order to sustain the interests of his sovereign;
and Lord Molyneux, equally zealous in the same cause, raised a regiment in Lancashire, of which he was made
colonel; but many of the other principal men in the county actively engaged in the war were, as we have already
seen, in favour of parliament. The zeal and ability displayed by Lord Strange, though ill requited by his
friends, brought upon him the decided hostility of his enemies; and parliament, in a proclamation of the 16th
of September, stigmatised him as a rebel, guilty of high treason, and ordered him to be so denounced by the
clergy and constables in all the churches and towns of Lancashire and Cheshire; while “all sheriffs, and other
his majesty's subjects, were required to apprehend the said Lord Strange, and bring him up to parliament,
there to receive condign punishment.” On the same day articles of impeachment against his lordship were
drawn up, and voted by the commons; and it was among other charges alleged against him, “that upon
the 15th day of July in the present year, he did maliciously, rebelliously, and traitorously summon together
a great number of his majesty's subjects at Manchester, and did there invite, persuade, and encourage them
to levy war against the king, parliament, and kingdom, and did on that occasion kill, murder, and destroy
one Richard Percivall; for which matters and things the knights, citizens, and burgesses in parliament
assembled impeached the said James Lord Strange of high treason.” At this crisis Lord Strange was urged
by the king to muster all the forces in his power in Lancashire, and to march at their head to join the royal
army then assembled at Shrewsbury. Long before the messenger, who was the bearer of this despatch under
the king's own hand, arrived at Lathom, the force assembled in virtue of the commission of array had dis-
persed; but his lordship lost no time in issuing his warrants for the appearance of his tenantry and
dependents. The summons was promptly obeyed, and three regiments of foot, with three troops of horse,
armed and clothed at his lordship's own charge, were raised in the month of August, and marched under his
command to Shrewsbury. The report made to the king of the state of Lancashire was, that the county was
much divided in its attachments, and that Manchester was in the hands of the parliamentary force. To
secure a station of so much importance, his lordship was ordered to return again to the seat of his lieu-
tenancy, and by all means to secure the town of Manchester. In obedience to these orders, his lordship,
assisted by Lord Rivers, Sir Gilbert Gerard, Lord Molyneux, and other gentlemen of the county, marched
from his rendezvous at Warrington, and on Sunday morning, the 25th of September 1642, arrived before
Manchester at the head of 4300 troops. On the following day the siege commenced, and was prosecuted
with great vigour, but with little success, during the whole week, at the end of which time his lordship
received two despatches, each of which had probably some influence in inducing him to raise the siege. The
first of these communications was of a domestic nature, and announced that his venerable father, William, earl
of Derby, had paid the debt of nature, and that his lordship, as heir-apparent, was elevated to the earldom ;
the other stated that the earl of Essex was marching from London to give his majesty battle, and the earl,
for such he had now become, was required to march with his whole force to the head-quarters of the royal army
at Shrewsbury. In compliance with the commands of his sovereign, the earl of Derby quitted Manchester, and
marched without delay to join the king. This “deliverance” of Manchester, as it was called, was considered by
the parliamentary party in Lancashire as “a visible manifestation of God's goodness towards them,” and a public
thanksgiving was ordained by parliament throughout the country, in token of the general gratitude. From
Shrewsbury the earl of Derby marched with his forces into Warwickshire, where he made an unsuccessful attempt
to take the town of Birmingham. The force by which he was opposed was the trained bands or militia; and in
the desperate rencontre which took place within about a mile from Birmingham, the earl is represented in
the despatches to parliament,” to have lost six hundred men in slain, and the same number of prisoners; while,
according to the same authority, the Warwickshire men lost only one hundred and twenty of their trained band.
After this unfortunate engagement, the earl returned by way of Shrewsbury into Lancashire, and again estab-
lished his rendezvous at Warrington. “The county of Lancaster,” says the letter of a Roundhead, who was
himself actively engaged in the civil wars, “is grievously disturbed and divided into two factions, the papists
and malignants, whereof there are many in Lancashire, taking one part, and the well-affected protestants another.
The earl of Derby, the great ringleader of the papist faction, keeps his rendezvous at Warrington, whither
great multitudes of ill-affected people, both out of Lancashire and Cheshire, daily resort, it being upon the
frontiers of both these counties. They make daily great spoil in the country, which has so much incensed
the people, that they are determined, tide death tide life, to endure it no longer.” The counterpart of this
representation is given by Arthur Trevor, the Cavalier, who, in a letter to the marquis of Ormonde," says,
“North Wales and South Wales, except a very few, are his majesty's. Cheshire hath agreed upon a
cessation of arms for a month. I confess, my lord, that I do not like this measuring out of treason by the
month. Manchester is the very London of these parts, the liver that sends the blood into all the counties
1 Rushworth's Coll. iv. 680. * See Manchester. * Dated Nov. 23, 1642. * Dated ultimo Decembris 1642.
R
CHAP. XV, Ǻr £istory of 3Lancašijire. 217
there abouts, and until it be cleansed or obstructed, I cannot imagine that there can be any safety in this
neighbourhood. It is much hoped that my lord of Newcastle will take the part of Yorkshire that joins to
Lancashire, and is poisoned by it, on his way to Manchester.” Of Manchester Lord Clarendon says “it had
from the beginning (out of that factious humour which possessed most corporations, in the pride of their
wealth) opposed the king, and declared magisterially for the parliament.” Unhappily for his lordship's com-
parison, Manchester was not a corporation; nor was pride, except indeed spiritual pride, the characteristic of
the parliamentary party. The earl of Newcastle was still delayed from proceeding into Lancashire, as his
intention was, with his overwhelming force of 12,000 men, and in the meantime a skirmish took place at
Leigh and Loaton Common, between the earl of Derby's troops and the country people (Nov. 27), of which
one of the latter gives the following relation:— .
“The last Sabbath,” says he, “as we were going towards the church, a post rode through the country informing us that the
earl's troops were coming towards Chowbent ; whereupon the country people rose, and before One of the clock on that day we had
gathered together 3000 horse and foot, encountering them at Chowbent aforesaid, and beating them back to Leigh, killed some,
and wounded many ; where you would wonder to have seen the forwardness of the young youths, farmers' sons. We drove them to
Loaton Common, where they, knowing our foot to be far behind, turned face about, and began to make head against us, whereupon
began a sharp although a short encounter; but when they perceived our full and settled resolution, they made away as fast as their
horses could carry them, and we after them, killing, wounding, and taking prisoners about two hundred of them ; and we never
lost a man, only we had three of our men wounded, but not mortally. The nailers of Chowbent, instead of making nails, have
busied themselves in making bills and battle-axes; and also this week the other part of the country meet, and not only intend to
stand upon their guard, but to disarm all the papists and malignants within their precincts, and to send them prisoners to Man-
chester, to keep house with Sir Cecill Trafford, who is there a prisoner. The men of Blackburn, Padiham, Burnley, Clitheroe, and
Colne, with those sturdy churls in the two forests of Pendle and Rossendale, have raised their spirits, and are resolved to fight it
out rather than their beef and fat bacon shall be taken from them. The last week Sir Gilbert Hoghton set his beacon on fire, which
stood upon the top of Hoghton tower, and was the signal to the country for the papists and malignants to arise in the field, and in
Leyland hundred ; whereupon great multitudes accordingly resorted to him at Preston, and ran to Blackburn, and so through the
country, disarming all and pillaging some, which Mr. Shuttleworth, a parliament man, and Mr. Starkie hearing of, presently had
gotten together about 8000 men, met with Sir Gilbert and his Catholic malignants at Hinfield moor, put them to flight, took away
many of their arms, and pursued Sir Gilbert so hotly that he quitted his horse, leapt into a field, and by the coming of the night
escaped through fir-bushes and bye-ways to Preston, and there makes great defence by chaining up Ribble bridge, and getting what
force he can into the town for his security; out of which the country people swear they will have him, by God's help, with all his
adherents, either quick or dead. Oh that the parliament had but sent down their 1000 of dragooners into the country we would
not have left a mass-monger nor malignant of note but we would have provided a lodging for him. It is reported by some about
the earl of Derby, that he is very melancholy and much perplexed about the unadvised course he has run; for the last Thursday at
Warrington, at dinner, he said he was born under an unfortunate planet, and that he thought some evil constellation reigned at the
hour of his birth, with many such other words of passion and discontent.”
A Smart engagement took place a few days after this, when the companies of Captain Bradshaw and
Captain Venables, having issued from Bolton, were met near Wigan by the loyalist troops, and captured.
The alarm in the country now spread on every side; civil war had never before been seen by the inhabitants;
the different classes of society were suspicious of each other, and the intention was entertained of raising the
levy en masse, by ringing alarm-bells in the hundred of Salford. The language of the Cavaliers was haughty
and menacing, that of the Roundheads sarcastic and insolent. Confidence amongst neighbours was banished;
trade was greatly interrupted; and scarcity and even absolute want prevailed to an alarming extent. The
religious predilections of one party were outraged by the other. The loyalists, who were characterised by
irreligion and profanity, to show their contempt for the Sanctimonious character of the puritans, dismantled
their sanctuaries, and carried their irreverence to sacred things so far as to play at cards in the pews of their
chapels;” while, on the other hand, monuments of antiquity, to which the name of popish could be attached,
were frequently consigned to destruction by a fanatical populace; and visionaries were not wanting to call
for an agrarian law. In this excited state of the public mind, a meeting was held at Preston for the purpose
of recruiting the king's forces, and raising the necessary supplies for their support. In this assembly the earl
of Derby, “lord-general of the county of Lancaster,” as he was styled, presided, and Sir John Girlington,
the high sheriff of the county, Alexander Rigby, esq. of Burgh, Robert Holt, Roger Kirby, and William
Farrington, esquires, with many others, attended. A series of resolutions was adopted, the principal of which
were that the sum of £8700 should be raised by a rate on the county of Lancaster, to be employed for the
payment of 2000 foot and 400 horse soldiers, and to provide magazines and ammunition for the use and
safety of the county, under the direction of a council, to be held at Preston, for the assistance of the lord-
general; the council to consist of Sir John Girlington, knt., Adam Morte, gentleman, mayor of Preston, and
James Anderton and Robert Kirby, esquires, with power to call to their assistance Sir Gilbert Hoghton, knt.
and baronet, Thomas Clifton, William Farrington, and John Fleetwood, esquires, or any other of his majesty's
commissioners of array within the county of Lancaster, so often as they should see occasion. At the same
meeting it was agreed that the following should be the pay of the Lancashire troops per diem —
* News from Manchester, dated Dec. 17, 1642. shire and the other counties, to take away all images, superstitious
pictures, and relics of idolatory, out of churches and chapels, where-
* Commissioners were this year sent by parliament into Lanca- ever they might be found.
2 F
218 - (Tijt #istory of 3Lancašijire, CHAP, XV
Foot, Płorse, & Drago0neeres.
S. d. S. d. S. d.
Captain . . 10 0 Captain . 16 0 Captain . 12 0
Lieutenant 4 0 Lieutenant 8 0 Lieutenant 6 0
Ancient. 3 0 Cornet 6 () Cornet 4 0
Sergeant 1 6 Corporal 4 0 Sergeant 3 0
T)rummer 1 3 Trumpeter 5 0 Corporal 2 0
Corporal 1 0 Private . 2 6 Dragooneere . | 6
Private . 0 9 Kettle-Drum . 2 0
And to every Commissary 5s.
The horrors of civil war banished the festivities of Christmas. The hundreds of Salford and Blackburn,
the principal seat of hostilities, were actively employed in preparing for attack or for defence. On Christmas
Eve (1642), the earl of Derby, at the head of several thousand men, provided with three field-pieces, marched
from Wigan against the town of Blackburn. On arriving before the town the earl demanded that they
should give up the place, and surrender their arms to the king. To this the militia replied that they were
trustees for the king and for the parliament, that the town was in their keeping, and that they should not
Surrender their trust. Finding them deaf to his summons, the earl endeavoured to prevail by the thunder of
his cannon, but, night coming on, he was obliged to withdraw his forces, to his severe mortification, and to
the joy of the inhabitants, who were unprepared for a renewal of the contest. The expectation entertained
by the earl of Derby that his influence in the counties of Lancaster and Chester, where he was supposed to
have more command over the people than any subject in England had in any other quarter, would render
the most important service to the king, was grievously disappointed. This large and populous county was
already nearly lost to the royal cause ; and though the king had sent into Cheshire Sir Nicholas Byron, a
Soldier of great command, with a commission of “Colonel-General of Cheshire and Shropshire, and Governor
of Chester,” that county was placed in a situation of the most imminent peril, measuring out its loyalty by
monthly portions. The estimate formed by Lord Clarendon of the earl of Derby's talents and devotion to
the royal cause, is as much too low as Secombe's estimate is too high. Speaking of the earl, his lordship
Says:—
“The restless spirit of the seditious party was so ready to be engaged, and punctually to obey, and, on the other hand, the
earl of Derby so unactive and so uncomplying with those who were fuller of alacrity, and would have proceeded more vigorously
against the enemy ; or, through want of experience, so irresolute, that, instead of countenancing the king's party in Cheshire, which
was expected from him, the earl insensibly found Lancashire to be almost possessed against him, the rebels every day gaining and
fortifying all the strong towns, and surprising his troops without any considerable encounter. And yet, so hard was the king's con-
dition, that though he knew these great misfortunes proceeded from want of conduct, and of a vigorous and expert commander, he
thought it not safe to make any alteration, lest that earl might be provoked, out of disdain to have any superior in Lancashire,
to manifest how much he could do against him, though it appeared he could do little for him. Yet it was easily discovered that his
ancient power there depended more upon the fear than upon the love of the people, there being very many now in this time of
liberty engaging themselves against the king, that might not be subject to that lord’s commands. However, the king committed
Lancashire still to his lordship's care, whose fidelity, without doubt, was blameless, whatever his skill was.” Speaking of the
inferior classes, the noble historian is more correct in his description. “The difference in the temper of the common people of both
sides,” says he, “was so great, that they who were inclined to the parliament left nothing unperformed that might advance the
cause ; and were incredibly vigilant and industrious to cross and hinder whatsoever might promote the king's ; whereas they who
wished well to him thought they had performed their duty in doing so, and that they had done enough for him, in that they had
done nothing against him.”
Lord Clarendon's error in these passages, which contain much of truth, consists in his not having
adverted to the origin of the quarrel between the court and the country, and in his having forgot that the first
violation of our free constitution was on the part of the former. Hence the alienation of the affections of
the people, and hence the want of power in the earl of Derby to rouse them into a state of active loyalty.
The war in other parts of the kingdom, though still in its pristine vigour, produced no very important
result during the year 1642. Early in the year 1643 Sir Thomas Fairfax, “the hero of the Commonwealth,”
guitted Yorkshire, and repaired to Manchester, where he established his headquarters, and infused into the
Lancashire campaign of that year a great degree of vigour. The first operation was undertaken by Sir John
Seaton, a Scotch knight, and major-general of the parliamentary forces. On the 10th of February Sir John
marched from Manchester at the head of a body of troops, and taking the route to Bolton and Blackburn, at
each of which places his force was considerably augmented, he advanced to Preston. This ancient borough
was then garrisoned by the king's troops, supported by a number of the neighbouring gentry, and headed by
the mayor, a zealous supporter of the royal cause. The town was prepared for the visit, and was well forti-
fied with an outer and inner wall. The attack was, however, made with so much vigour and promptitude,
that the place was carried after a combat of two hours, and the gallant mayor, Adam Morte, esq., Captain
Hoghton, brother of Sir Gilbert, and a number of other officers, were numbered amongst the slain. In the
rapidity of their advance from Blackburn to Preston, the parliamentary forces had left behind them the
fortress of Hoghton Tower, the seat of Sir Gilbert Hoghton; but no sooner had Preston surrendered than
three troops were despatched by Sir John Seaton, most of them Blackburn men, to take this tower. Having
discharged a shot against the walls a parley was obtained, which terminated in the surrender of the place
1 Clarendon's Hist, of the Rebellion, book vi. . ? Ibid. 3 Ibid.
CHAP. XV. Ciſc 3:?istorg of £ancašijire, 219
(Feb. 14). Captain Starkie and his company then marched into the garrison, where they found three large
pieces of Ordnance, with a good supply of arms and ammunition ; but while they were congratulating them-
selves on their easy conquest, the tower blew up, and the captain with sixty of his men either perished, or
were dreadfully maimed by the explosion. In the accounts sent to parliament this disaster is represented as
an act of perfidy on the part of the Cavaliers, but there is no satisfactory evidence to establish the charge ;
and, for anything that appears to the contrary, the sacrifice of life may have been occasioned by the precipi-
tancy which was manifested in demolishing the tower.
In the absence of the main part of the parliamentary troops, the earl of Derby despatched a strong force
from Wigan to take possession of Bolton, where Colonel Ashton commanded. After a furious assault at the
Bradshaw-gate entrance to the town, the garrison was obliged to retreat to a mud wall two yards thick,
which had been erected for the security of the place, and was guarded at the entrance by a chain. Here the
battle was resumed with great obstinacy, but in the end the assailants were obliged to retreat, bearing along
with them two or three cartloads of their dead soldiers slain in the engagement (Feb. 16). Two hundred
club-men from Middleton, Oldham, and Rochdale, came soon after to the assistance of the place, accompanied
by two hundred soldiers from Manchester under the command of Captain Radcliffe.
In the meantime Captain Birch proceeded from Preston to Lancaster, which proved an easy conquest
(Feb. 17); and the castle, in which were Mr. Kirby, one of the knights of the shire, and Sir John Girlington,
also surrendered, but not till these gentlemen had effected their escape. At the same time, twenty-one pieces
of ordnance, taken from a Dunkirk ship in the harbour, were brought to the castle, and served to enhance
the value of the victory.
The campaign was now destined to take a more auspicious turn for the royal cause. The earl of Derby,
by command of the king, presented himself at the head of a strong force before Lancaster, and immediately
summoned the mayor and burgesses to surrender both the town and castle into his hands, on pain of the
severest infliction." To this summons the mayor replied that all their arms had been taken, under the
command of officers within the town, for the king and parliament ; and, as to the castle, it had never been
in possession of the mayor and burgesses. This answer was considered so unsatisfactory by the earl, that he
set fire to the town, and ninety houses and eighty-six barns, or other buildings of a similar description, were
consumed (March 18). An attempt was made from Preston by the parliamentary forces, under Colonel
Ashton, to relieve Lancaster, but it failed; and the earl of Derby, after taking Lancaster with a severe
carnage, in which men, women, and children were slain,” returned to the south and took Preston by assault
(March 21), and slew about six hundred of the enemy. From Preston he marched to Blackburn, which also
surrendered. Encouraged by his success, the earl advanced to Bolton on the 28th of March, the day after the
fast which had been kept at Manchester to deprecate the judgments of Heaven. On receiving the summons
to surrender in the name of the king, the garrison replied that they should keep the town for the king and
parliament, and then went composedly to prayers. The end of the prayers was the beginning of a renewed
assault upon the town, which they resisted with so much success as again to drive off the assailants (March 28).
Lord Molyneux, after having fought at Edge Hill on the side of his majesty, had returned into Lanca-
shire to recruit his regiment ; and by his aid the towns of Lancaster and Preston had been reconquered. To
consummate the campaign, it was determined to march to Manchester, then the stronghold of the parliamentary
force in the county, and to secure the place for the royal cause. Animated to renewed exertions by the
remembrance of his former defeat before that place, the earl of Derby declared that he would, if properly
supported, either reduce the town or lay his bones before it. On the arrival of the royal army at Chorley,
Lord Molyneux was summoned by a messenger from the king to repair forthwith to Oxford with his regiment,
there to join the main army. This was a grievous disappointment to the earl of Derby, who entreated his
stay in Lancashire but for four days longer, in order to make the assault upon Manchester. The orders of
the king were not, however, to be disobeyed; the earl's auxiliaries set out on their march for Oxford without
delay, and his lordship was obliged again to repair to Wigan. The following week was observed as a national
fast by order of parliament ; but in the midst of their devotions the arts and practice of war were by no means
neglected. The earl of Derby was strongly entrenched at Wigan, the head-quarters of the Cavaliers; as
Manchester was of the Roundheads. After the disasters sustained by Sir John Seaton's forces in the hundreds
of Amounderness and Lonsdale, Sir John, having recruited his army by a strong force from Manchester,
marched to Wigan, where he summoned the earl to surrender. To this summons his lordship replied with
disdain, on which Sir John's musketeers and club-men fell upon the town with so much resolution that the
place was carried after a gallant resistance (April 1), and the earl obliged to retreat to Blackburn, and
subsequently to Preston. From Wigan the victorious army marched to Warrington, but here they suffered a
repulse (April 5). A large body of men, under the command of the earl of Derby, issued from Preston into
the neighbourhood of Whalley with the intention of clearing Blackburn hundred of the parliamentary forces.
Being met by Colonel Shuttleworth at the head of a number of troops supported by a hasty levy, a running
fight took place near Ribchester, which was continued down to the Ribble at Salesbury, and ended in the
1 Summons of the earl of Derby, dated March 18, 1643. * Lancashire's Valley of Achor, p. 25. * Lancaster Massacre, p. 2.
220 (ſºr ºigturn of £ancashire, - CHAP. XV.
repulse of the earl. On the 28th of April, the parliamentary forces, taking the route of Wigan, Ormskirk,
and Preston, again advanced to Lancaster, where they succeeded in relieving the castle, which had been
besieged by the king's forces. The siege of Warrington by the parliamentary forces under Colonel Ashton
was commenced on the 23d of May. As a preliminary to the siege, the church of Winwick was taken
possession of, and five days after Warrington capitulated (May 28). At this time a ship was taken at
Liverpool which had been sent to the royalists to supply them with reinforcements both of men and of
ammunition. An effort was made by the earl of Derby to regain the magazines at Liverpool; but, by the
determined resistance of Mr. Moore and his parliamentary adherents, the earl's designs, though supported by
a formidable force, were entirely frustrated. -
The parliament, pressed by their necessities, passed an ordinance this year for the sequestration of the
estates of “notorious delinquents” in the several counties of the kingdom, on the alleged ground that those
who had raised the unnatural war should be made to defray its expenses. At the same time, sequestrators
were appointed to seize the property of those who were hostile to the parliament, and in this way to replenish
their exhausted revenues (April 1)." The sequestrators in Lancashire were Sir Ralph Ashton and Sir Thomas
Stanley, baronets; Ralph Ashton of Downham, Ralph Ashton of Middleton, Richard Shuttleworth, Alexander
Rigby, John Moore, Richard Holand, Edward Butterworth, John Bradshaw, Wm. Ashurst, Geo. Dodding,
Peter Egerton, Nicholas Cunliffe, John Starkie, Gilbert Ireland, Thos. Birch, and Thos. Fell, esquires; and
Robert Hide, Robert Cunliffe, Robert Curwen, John Newell, and John Ashurst, gentlemen. On the 6th of
September in this year an order passed the House of Commons empowering the deputy-lieutenants in the
palatine counties of Lancaster and Chester to choose auditors charged with the duty of keeping perfect accounts
of all such moneys, goods, and profits as might be taken or seized by virtue of any order or ordinance of either
house of parliament ; and also to choose a treasurer, into whose hands such money should be paid ; and it
was subsequently ordered that Ralph Ashton, Richard Shuttleworth, John Moore, and Alexander Rigby,
esquires, all members of parliament, should act as auditors in Lancashire.”
The disasters of this short but active campaign, with the treatment that the earl of Derby had received
from the king and his advisers, had a deadening influence upon the royal cause in Lancashire; and the earl,
at the earnest solicitation of the queen, proceeded to the Isle of Man, to secure that island from the dangers
with which it was menaced by the king's enemies. His lordship was not insensible to the danger attendant
upon this step, both towards the county and towards his own family. Previous to his departure he took all
possible precautions to supply his house at Lathom, which was in itself a complete fortress, with men, cannon,
and provisions; and to place the garrison under the command of a heroine whose name will ever rank
amongst the most gallant and illustrious of her sex. -
At the same time that the queen commanded the earl of Terby to proceed to the Isle of Man, her
majesty wrote to the earl of Newcastle from York (May 8), informing him that she had sent Wm. Murray to
communicate with him on the state of Lancashire, and exciting him, by the honour that would await him, to
recover for the king this “lost county.” In another letter from the queen to the earl, on the following day,
her majesty informs him that she has received further news from Lancashire, which the bearer is commissioned
to communicate. In obedience to the queen's commands, the earl of Newcastle, after his victory at Adwalton
IMoor, despatched a declaration and summons from his headquarters at Bradford to the town of Manchester,
requiring them to lay down their arms, to avoid the further effusion of “christian blood,” under an assurance
that, on their prompt obedience, his majesty's grace and mercy should be extended towards them, at the same
time apprising them, that if they presumed to reject this offer, the blood shed in consequence of such rejection
would fall upon their heads. To this imperious mandate Manchester replied, by the messenger who brought
the earl's despatch, that they had at all times shown themselves desirous to maintain the king's prerogatives
and the liberties of the subject, but that they had resolutely resisted those who, under colour of his majesty's
commission, endeavoured to overthrow the Protestant religion; as to his lordship's threats, they were nothing
dismayed by them, but hoped that God, who had been their protector hitherto, would so direct their force
that they should be able to return the violence intended into the bosoms of those who should become their
persecutors. The earl never found a suitable opportunity to prosecute his intended operations against the
county of Lancaster, and for some months hostilities ceased in this county, though the civil wars still raged
in the north, the south, and the east, and the blood of Englishmen continued to flow without any prospect of
termination. In the northern parts of Lancashire, near its junction with Westmorland and Cumberland, a battle
was, fought between the parliamentary army under Colonel Rigby, and the royalist troops under Colonel
Huddlestone, one of the commissioners of array, which terminated in a “great victory” (Oct. 1). The last
remaining stronghold of the king, in the northern part of this county, was Thurland Castle, which was at that
time defended by Sir John Girlington, and which had sustained a siege of eleven weeks, without receiving
any relief, though the king's forces in Westmorland lay within view of the castle At length it was determined
1 Rushworth's Collections, vol. v. p. 309. directs that the estates and goods of persons in rebellion against him
* The king had also his commissioners of sequestration, and in shall be seized into their hands, and the revenues used for the Sup-
“Instructions ° to Prince Rupert, dated February 5th, 1643-4, he port of his forces,—Harl. MSS. cod. 2135.
CHAP. XV. Qſìt historg of £amrashire. 221
to make a desperate effort to relieve the garrison; and the Westmorland and Cumberland force, united with
that from Cartmel and Furness, assembled over the sands, to the number of sixteen hundred men; Mr. Roger
Kirby and Mr. Alexander Rigby of the Burgh leading the Lancashire forces. To defeat this operation, Colonel
Rigby marched in the middle of October, at the head of a strong detachment of the besieging army in front
of Thurland Castle, into Furness, on Saturday; and on Sunday morning, after committing his troops to God's
protection in prayer, the colonel commanded his men to attack the enemy. In this engagement, if such it
could be called, the word of the Cavaliers was, “In with Queen Mary,” while that of the Roundheads was,
“God with us.” An instant panic seized the royalists, who fled in all directions, and instead of a battle it
became a rout.
“At our first appearance,” says Colonel Rigby, in his official despatch to the speaker of the House of Commons,” “God so struck
the hearts of these our enemies with terrour, that, before a blow given, their horse began to retreat, our foot gave a great shout, our
horse pursued, their's fled ; their foot dispersed, and fled ; they all trusted more to their feet than their hands; they threw away
their arms and colours, deserted their magazine drawn with eight oxen, and were totally routed in one quarter of an hour's time;
our horse slew some few of them in the pursuit, and drove many of them into the sea ; wee took their Colonel Hudleston, of Millam,
two captains, and an ensign, and about foure hundred prisoners, six foot colours, and one horse colour; and their magazin, and
some horses, and more arms than men; and all this without the losse of any one man of Ours; wee had only one man hurt by the
enemy, and only another hurt by himselfe with his own pistoll, but neither mortally ; upon the close of the busines, all our men
with a great shout cryed out, ‘Glory be to God;’ and wee all, except one troop of horse, and one foot company, which Ileft to quiet
the countrey, returned forthwith towards our siege at Thurland.”
After this engagement the colonel pressed the siege of Thurland with so much vigour that in two days
the castle surrendered by capitulation.” Following up the usual system, the fortress was immediately demolished,
and Colonel Huddlestone was sent prisoner to London, to be dealt with by the parliament. This year (1643),
that profane and mischievous publication called “The Book of Sports,” the fruitful parent of so much disaster
to the house of Stuart, was stigmatised in parliament as it deserved, and, in virtue of their vote, consigned
to the flames by the common hangman.” The king, finding his authority entirely superseded, and that the
people and the militia, in many places which his troops summoned to Surrender, professed to act under the
sanction of parliament, declared that the two houses were not a free parliament, and in effect denied their
authority, as they had denied his. The convocation had already been abolished by an ordinance of parliament,
which declared that government by archbishops and bishops was evil, and that the same should be taken
away; and a solemn league and covenant was now entered into between the Scotch and the English, by
which it was stipulated that the Protestant religion should be sustained in Scotland, according to the form
already established in that country, while a reformation should be effected in England, agreeable to the word
of God and the example of the best reformed churches." To secure the fidelity of the army to the cause of
parliament in this Catholic county, it was ordered that such officers and commanders in Lancashire in the
service of parliament as should refuse to take the covenant, on its being tendered to them, should be discharged
of their command and kept in custody, if the committees of the county should so determine.”
An assembly of divines for the English counties, now divided into separate dioceses, was also constituted,
and formed into classes, which were formally settled in this county in the year 1647; and to the end that
the maintenance provided or disposed of by parliament for preaching ministers might only be given to godly
and learned and orthodox divines, it was ordained by parliament, that no minister within the county should
hereafter receive a benefice, without a certificate of his fitness for the ministerial office, under the hands of
two or more deputy-lieutenants in the said county, and under the hands of Mr. Herle of Winwick, Mr.
Heyricke of Manchester, Mr. Hyett of Croston, Mr. Horrocks of Dean, Mr. Ambrose of Preston, Mr. Shaw of
Aldingham, Mr. Angier of Denton, Mr. Johnson of Ashton Mersey Bank, Mr. Ward of Warrington, Mr. Shawe
of Liverpool, Mr. Gee of Eccleston, Mr. Latham of Douglas [Standish], Mr. Harper of Bolton, Mr. Hollin-
worth of Salford, Mr. Wright of Gargreave, and Mr. Johnson of Rochdale, or any seven or more of them.
Parliament, fully aware of the danger by which the county of Lancaster was menaced, issued an order
that Mr. James Wainwright, under the superintendence of the committee of safety, should send forty barrels of
powder into this county, for its better security and defence;" and in the course of the same month a letter
was despatched by the speaker of the House of Commons to the gentlemen in Lancashire, in acknowledgment
of their great and good services. It was the policy of parliament to dismantle and demolish all the fortresses
in the country, and on the 8th of July (1643), an order was sent from the Commons to the Lords, directing
“ that the castle of Hornby be forthwith so defaced, or demolished, that the enemy may be prevented from
making any further use thereof to the annoyance of the inhabitants,” and the deputy-lieutenants were required
to give an account of their service in the execution thereof. -
The strength of the conflicting armies was now swelled to a large amount. Sir Thomas Fairfax was
made general of the north by parliament, with a force of 21,000 men, including 6000 horse and 1000
1 Dated Preston, in Lancashire, Oct. 17, 1643. from the remark of one of them, who, after having read the declara-
* This victory, says Whitelock, was the more discoursed of, be- tion, said, “Dearly beloved, you have heard now the commandments
cause Rigby was a lawyer. of God and man, obey which you please.”
* The spirit in which some of the clergy had complied with the * Journals of the Lords, Sept. 18, 1643. * Ibid.
royal injunction to read the Book of Sports, may be conceived * Journals of the Commons, June 1, 1643.
222 The history of Lancashire. chap. xv.
dragooneers; while Prince Rupert and Prince Maurice, the king's nephews, commanded an army of equal
strength, on behalf of the king, with the earl of Derby in Lancashire, and Sir Marmaduke Langdale and
Lord Byron, baron of Rochdale, in Cheshire, Shropshire, and Wales. The preparations on both sides were
such as might be expected at the commencement of a campaign which was intended to terminate the contest.
Towards the close of the last year (Dec. 26) the king's forces, under Lord Byron, had obtained an important
victory at Nantwich, and obliged their enemies to seek refuge in Lancashire, where, according to the plan of
the campaign, the earl of Newcastle was to have attacked them, but the unexpected advance of Sir Thomas
Fairfax into Staffordshire disconcerted the plan of operations by drawing the earl's attention to that quarter.
The Lancashire forces, to the number of 2000 foot, and a large body of cudgellers, finding themselves secure
from the earl, effected a junction with Fairfax and Sir William Brereton near Nantwich, in front of which the
loyalists, under Lord Byron, were posted, and after a gallant action his lordship was defeated with great loss
(Jan. 25, 1644), and obliged to seek shelter for his discomfited forces in Chester." After the battle of Nant-
wich the united forces, under Sir Thomas Fairfax, accompanied by the regiments of Colonel Rigby, Colonel
Egerton, Colonel Ashton, and Colonel Holcroft, marched to Lathom House, the seat of the earl of Derby,
where they arrived on the 28th of February. This mansion, which the dangers of the times had converted
into a fortress, was, in the absence of the earl, defended by Charlotte Tremouille, the countess of Derby,
assisted by Major Farmer and the Captains Farington, Charnock, Chisenhall, Rawstorne, Ogle, and Molyneux.
On the arrival of his army before Lathom House, Sir Thomas Fairfax obtained an audience with the countess,
who had disposed her soldiers in such a way as to impress the parliamentary general with a favourable
opinion of their numbers and discipline. The offer made to the countess in this interview by Sir Thomas
was that, on condition of her surrendering the house to the troops under his command, herself and her child-
ren and servants, with their property, should be safely removed to Knowsley, there to remain without
molestation in the enjoyment of one-half of the earl's estates. To this alluring proposal her ladyship mildly
but resolutely replied that a double trust had been confided to her—faith to her lord and allegiance to her
Sovereign; and that without their permission she could not make the required surrender in less than a
month, nor then without their approbation. The impetuous temper of the parliamentary army could not
brook this delay, and after a short consultation it was determined to besiege the fortress rather than attempt
to carry it by storm. At the end of fourteen days, while the works were constructing, Sir Thomas Fairfax
sent a renewed summons to the countess, but with no better success; the reply of the countess being that
she had not forgot her duty to the church of England, to her prince, and to her lord, and that she would
defend her trust with her honour and with her life. Being ordered into Yorkshire, Sir Thomas confided the
siege to Colonel Peter Egerton and Major Morgan, who, despairing of success from negotiation, proceeded to
form the lines of circumvallation with all the formality of a German siege. The progress of the besiegers
was continually interrupted by Sallies from the garrison, which beat the soldiers from their trenches, and
destroyed their works. At the end of three months a deep trench was cut near the moat, on which was raised
a strong battery, where a mortar was planted for the casting of grenades. In one of these discharges the
ball fell close to the table at which the countess and her children were sitting, and broke part of the furni-
ture to atoms. A gallant and successful Sally, under Major Farmer, and Captains Molyneux, Radcliffe, and
Chisenhall, destroyed these works, killed a number of the besieging army, and captured the mortar. The
countess not only superintended the works and commanded the operations, but frequently accompanied her
gallant troops to the margin of the enemy's trenches. The parliament, dissatisfied with all this delay, super-
seded Colonel Egerton, and confided the command to Colonel Rigby. Fresh works were now erected, but
they shared the fate of their predecessors; and Colonel Rigby, on the approach of Prince Rupert into Lanca-
shire, was obliged to raise the siege at the end of four months, and to seek shelter for himself and his army
in Bolton. Prince Rupert, after the battle of Newark, marched towards Lancashire, at the head of a powerful
army, with the intention to raise the siege of Lathom House, in which he succeeded; and to recover the
“lost county” of Lancaster, in which he failed most deplorably. On his arrival at Stockport (Stopworth, as it
was then called), seated on the banks of the river Mersey, where the parliament had a strong garrison, he found
the hedges lined with musketeers, who disputed his passage. To secure the entrance of his troops, his high-
ness despatched Colonel Washington, at the head of a party of dragoons, to scour the hedges, which service
the colonel performed with so much success, that the musketeers were driven from their station, and the
prince, with his horse, followed at their heels, pell-mell, into the town, which he took, with all the cannon
and ammunition, and some hundreds of prisoners (May 25). Prince Rupert, without suffering his progress to
be arrested by the garrison at Manchester, advanced to Bolton. On his arrival before that place, on the 28th
of May, he was joined by the earl of Derby from the Isle of Man, when the resolution was taken, in a council
of war, to carry the town by storm. The assault was immediately commenced, but the resistance from the
garrison was so vigorous that the assailants were repulsed with the loss of two hundred men. Irritated, but
not dispirited, by this failure, another attack was resolved upon, which was led by the earl of Derby, at the
head of two hundred chosen Lancashire men, chiefly of his lordship's tenantry. The fury of this assault was
* Lord Byron's letter to the marquis of Ormonde, dated Chester, Jan. 30, 1643-4.
CHAP. XV. Çür £istory of 3Lancašijire. 223
irresistible, and the town fell into the hands of Prince Rupert. Colonel Rigby, with a number of his troops,
escaped from the town, and, crossing the Yorkshire hills, marched to Bradford. Unfortunately for his own
character, and for the life of his noble companion in arms, Prince Rupert refused to give quarter to the
vanquished, and twelve hundred persons were put to the sword after the battle was won. The trophies
of this day, consisting of the colours taken at Bolton, were sent by the earl of Derby to Lathom House,
and were received by the countess with great exultation. The prince without delay advanced to Liver-
pool, where there was a strong garrison under the command of Colonel Moore, the governor of the town,
and member of parliament for that borough. His highness, whose sanguine disposition frequently hurried
him on to hasty conclusions, did not hesitate to pronounce that the place was too feeble to resist the prowess
of his arms for a single day ; but, though the siege was prosecuted with great vigour, the fortress did not sur-
render in less than three weeks from the time that the royalist army brought their cannon to bear upon the
works. Before the garrison surrendered, they shipped off all the arms, ammunition, and portable effects;
and most of the officers and soldiers went on shipboard, while a few made good the fort, which they rendered
to the prince upon quarter, but they were all put to the sword. Having thus secured two of the most
important places in Lancashire, Manchester excepted, Prince Rupert paid a hasty visit to his noble relative,
the heroine of Lathom House, where he gave instructions for strengthening the fortress by adding to the
towers, bastions, and counterscarps; he then continued his march, by way of Blackburn, to York, at the head
of 20,000 men, where he joined the marquis of Newcastle. The day after his arrival before that city, the
great and decisive battle of Marston Moor was fought (July 2). This engagement was obstinately disputed
between the most numerous armies that were engaged during the whole course of these wars. Eighty
thousand British troops were here led to mutual slaughter. Prince Rupert, who commanded the right wing
of the royalists, was opposed to Oliver Cromwell, who commanded the left of the parliamentary army. The
marquis of Newcastle commanded on the left, and was opposed to Sir Thomas Fairfax and Colonel Lambert.
For some time the scale of victory hung in suspense, and both parties in turn thought that the day was their
own ; but, after the utmost efforts of courage and skill, the rout of the royal army became general, Prince
Rupert's train of artillery was taken, and his whole army pushed off the field of battle.” The civil wars were
not now at an end, but their issue was no longer doubtful. The marquis of Newcastle, whose counsel had
been disregarded, quitted the kingdom with mixed feelings of disgust and despair, and Prince Rupert drew off
the wreck of his army into Lancashire, where he had the mortification to see the strongholds which he had
recently obtained speedily re-conquered.
After the battle of Marston Moor, it was determined by Lord Fairfax to send 1000 horse into Lanca-
shire, to form a junction with the parliamentary forces from Cheshire and Derbyshire, for the purpose of
watching the motions of Prince Rupert, who marched to join the king's forces in Cumberland and Westmor-
land. Parliament had, in the meantime, passed an ordinance for a grant of £3000 to the forces of Lancashire;”
and a plan was devised for the committees of parliament, in Derbyshire and Lancashire, to join the association
of the northern counties. One of the objects of this association was to supply the forces of Lancashire with
money to carry on the war.” To mitigate the miseries of the sufferers in Lancashire, an ordinance was passed,
that all officers and soldiers under the command of Colonel Alexander Rigby, and Colonel Richard Shuttleworth,
at Bolton or in other places, by the loss of limbs, etc.; and such women and children whose husbands or fathers
had been slain, or died in the service, should be pensioned “out of the several sequestrations of papists and
delinquents, within the respective hundreds of Blackburn, Leyland, and Amounderness, or out of assessments
provided for that purpose; but that no person should receive, by way of maintenance, more than four shillings
and eightpence per week.” The return of Prince Rupert into Lancashire was the signal for a renewal of
hostilities, deserving the name of little more than skirmishes, though some of them are dignified in the
despatches of the day as “great victories.” Fights took place near Ormskirk, Up-Holland, and Preston, in
the last of which Lord Ogleby and Colonel Ennis were made prisoners." The Lancashire campaign of this
year was terminated by the surrender of Liverpool to the parliamentary forces under Sir John Meldrum
(Nov. 1), the earl of Derby having failed in an attempt to relieve that place, with a loss of 500 men killed
and taken prisoners." Lord Byron, too, was little less unfortunate; for, in a letter to the marquis of Ormonde,
dated November 15, 1644, he says, “My brother Robin is now a prisoner at Manchester, with some of his
officers, the rest being disposed of to other garrisons of the rebels, and I am so unfortunate at this time as to
have no exchange for him here.* Liverpool is lost through the treachery of the common soldiers, who, not
pressed with any other want but of loyalty and courage, most basely gave up the town and the officers to the
mercy of the rebels.”
In the midst of all this “unsuccessful and successful war,” the condition of the inhabitants of Lancashire,
owing to the spoil, rapine, and cruelty, which never fail to attend civil wars, was most deplorable. In some
1 Whitelock's Memorials, p. 91. 4 Ibid. July 1. * Whitelock's Memorials, p. 103.
2 Rushworth, vi. 634. * Ibid. Aug. 5. § Carte's Originalletters and Papers, i. 70,
* Commons' Journals, June 25, 1644. 9 Col. Shuttleworth's Despatch, dated Whalley, Aug. 1644. 9 Ibid. p. 71.
224 Oſije #istºrg of £ancagüirº. CHAP. xv.
parts of the county the people had scarcely anything left to cover their nakedness; they and their children
were without bread to eat ; and their misery was so extreme, that an order was issued by parliament, that
upon the 12th day of September, being the day appointed for a solemn fast throughout the country, one-half
of the public collections to be made in all the churches within the cities of London and Westminster, and
within the line of communication, should be employed for the relief of the poor distressed people in the
county of Lancaster, the money to be paid into the hands of the Rev. Mr. Herle and the Rev. Mr. Case,
members of the Westminster Assembly of Divines, to be by them forwarded to Mr. John Hartley of Man-
chester, and disbursed through the medium of Mr. Heyricke, warden of Manchester; Mr. Harper, minister of
Bolton ; Mr. Wood, minister of Warrington; Mr. Lathom, minister of Douglas; Mr. Ambrose, minister of
Preston; Mr. Shaw, minister of Aldingham ; and Mr. Hipworth, minister of Whalley; or any four of them."
The people, growing impatient from the protracted miseries of war, began to demand its speedy termination ;
and surmises were entertained that the contest was prolonged for the profit it afforded in places and pensions
bestowed upon the members of the House of Commons. To remove all suspicion on this head, an act called
“ the Self-denying Ordinance” was introduced and passed, by which all members of either house of parliament
were prohibited from holding any command in the army. |
The extensive revenues and patronage of the duchy of Lancaster having become objects of contest
between the conflicting parties, the duchy seal, by which the proceedings in court obtained their ratification,
was forcibly taken from Christopher Banister, the vice-chancellor of the county, by the troops raised against
the parliament, without which seal neither sheriff nor justice of the peace could be constituted, nor could
common justice be administered to the inhabitants. To repair this loss, the two houses of parliament
ordained that a new duchy seal should be made ; that it should have like power and validity as that formerly
used, and that all acts done by the former seal, since it was taken from the vice-chancellor, “should be utterly
void, frustrate, and of no effect.” One of the first documents to which the new duchy seal was attached
was the patent of John Bradshaw, esq., afterwards so much distinguished in the Commonwealth, as high-
sheriff of the county of Lancaster. This year the parliament assumed the patronage of the ecclesiastical bene-
fices of the duchy, and exercised that patronage by conferring the living of the hospital of Leicester upon Mr.
Grey, the brother of the earl of Kent.
All the strong places in Lancashire were now in possession of the parliamentary forces, with the excep-
tion of Lathom House, and grants of money and munitions of war continued to be dispensed by parliament
for the maintenance of these possessions.” The battle of Naseby, fought June 14, 1645, where the king
commanded on one side, aided by his nephews, Prince Rupert and Prince Maurice, and Fairfax on the other,
aided by Cromwell, proved most disastrous to the royal cause, and disabled the Cavaliers from prosecuting
the campaign in the northern counties. After that disastrous day the king marched to Chester, with the
intention of carrying the war into Lancashire, and of relieving Lathom House, which was at that time again
besieged by the parliamentary forces. His majesty's ill-fortune still pursued him, and he was doomed to
sustain another defeat on Rowton Heath, in the neighbourhood of Chester. The renewed siege of Lathom
was commenced in the month of July 1645, under the command of General Egerton, at the head of 4000 men.
The countess of Derby and her family having retired to the Isle of Man, the command of the garrison was
confided to Colonel Rawstorne, aided by Major Munday and Captain Key, commanders of horse, and Captain
Charnock, Captain Farington, Captain Molyneux Radcliffe, Captain Henry Noel, Captain Worral, and Captain
Roby. For five months the siege was sustained with great spirit, in the hope that the king's troops would be,
able to relieve the garrison ; but this expectation having been utterly disappointed, Colonel Rawstorne and
his brave companions in arms were obliged to surrender this ancient and venerable edifice into the hands of
the enemy on the 4th day of December. The fall of Lathom House was considered an event of Sufficient
importance to call for a thanksgiving, by order of parliament, in the cities of London and Westminster. This
service being over, the House of Commons proceeded to consider what was to be done with the fortress,
when it was determined that it should be demolished; and in virtue of this resolution, the towers and all the
strong works were razed to the ground, and the house of Lathom, once the pride and glory of Lancashire,
was dismantled and ruined.
From the first breaking out of the troubles, Chester had been secured by the commission of array for the
service of the king, but the besieging army under Sir William Brereton, having been reinforced by the
parliamentary troops from Lathom House, this ancient city was obliged to surrender by articles of capitu-
lation, between Lord Byron, the governor, and Sir William Brereton, on the 3d of February 1645-6. The
royal cause had now become hopeless, and the Scottish army having marched into the centre of England, as
the allies of the parliamentary force, the king surrendered himself into their hands at Newark on the 5th of
May. The pressure of so large an army as that maintained by parliament fell heavily upon the public
treasury ; and, in order to replenish the finances, the two houses issued an ordinance for raising £60,000
per month for the support of the forces, to which the county of Lancaster was required to contribute
#529 : 3:2, and the county of Chester É39 : 13; 11. Immense sums of money were exacted from such
* Journals of the Commons, Sept. 11, 1644. ? Ibid. Nov. 25. 3 Ibid. April 5 and July 9, 1645.
CHAP. XV, Oſije #istory of 3Lancašijire. 225
persons of property as had favoured the royal cause, and it was alleged that this was the only effectual means
of reaching the feelings of the “heart-malignants,” by which name the partisans of the king were distinguished
by their enemies. Three years before this time parliament had issued ordinances, as we have already seen,
for sequestrating “the estates of delinquents, papists, spies, and intelligencers,” throughout the kingdom,
wherein it was directed that all bishops, deans, or other persons, who have raised or shall raise arms against
the parliament, or shall be in actual war against them ; or shall have contributed any money, arms, etc.
towards the force of the enemy, shall have their property sequestrated into the hands of sequestrators and
committees in this order named.' The king, who could afford to his friends no protection against these
exactions, consented that they should pay Such compositions as might be agreed upon between them and the
parliament; but when the parliament demanded a bill of attainder and banishment against seven persons—
the Marquis of Newcastle, Lord Digby, Lord Byron, Sir Marmaduke Langdale, Sir Richard Granville, Sir
Francis Doddington, and Judge Jenkins—he absolutely refused compliance. A power was in this way given
to the committee of sequestration to allow “the delinquents, papists, and others,” to compound for their
estates, on payment of a specific sum into the public treasury; and the following is
A CATALOGUE
Of the Lords, Knights, and Gentlemen of Lancashire, who compounded for their Estates in the years 1646, &c., with the sum affixed
- at which each Freeholder contracted:—
- £ S. d. \ £ S. d.
Ambrose, Wm., of Lowick, gent. . * * . 129 0 0 || Gerrard, William, of Pennington . gº º tº 2 10 6
Ashton, Thomas, of Penketh º e º . 192 8 4 || Holt, Robert, of Castleton, Esq. . t * . 150 0 0
Ashton, Thos., of Westbank, yeoman . tº . 16 4 0 || Holt, Richard, of Ashworth, gent. e : . 551 0 0
Adkins, Nathaniel, of Broughton & g . 31 0 0 || Hough, Robert, of Moston . * e g . 25 0 0
Brown, Ralph, of Aspen [? Astley or Aspull] . 11 0 0 | Hey, Ellis, of Eccles, gent. . tº * * . 309 () ()
Bate, John, of Warbreck . e tº tº . 11 0 0 | Hencock, John, of Clithero, yeoman . g ū 5 5 0
Barker, James, of Blackrod . tº $9 e . 10 0 0 | Hesketh, Robert, of Rufforth, gent. * * , 45 18 9
Bridgeman, Edward, of Warrington . tº . 100 0 0 | Heap, Thos., of Pilkington, gent. . * g . 101 0 (0
Bowden, Edward, of Kirbie . gº ſº & , 40 0 0 || Haughton, Richard, of Ridley, gent. . g . 60 0 0
Baylcon, Wm., of Barmaker ſº e º . 70 0 0 || Haughton, Thomas, of Haughton . º gº g 2 10 0
Breres, Launcelot, of Whittle ſº g g . 10 0 0 || Hind, Rd., of Overton, yeoman . § g , 34 0 0
Bretherton, John, of Leigh, gent. s g . 150 0 0 | Hodginson, Luke, of Preston e e * . 15 0 0
Breres, Alex., of Martin, gent. . & * . 82 4 5 || Halsworth, Thos., of Heath-Charnock . g . 18 0 0
Brown, Wm., of Wigan © fe e iº . 20 12 0 || Haydock, Roger, of Henry . † tº & tº 3 15 0
Brown, Edward, of Woodplumpton º º . 127 8 0 | Heywood, Peter, of Heywood t; º g . 351 0 0
Bower, Wm., of Latham, yeoman * 9 . 25 0 0 || Higham, Thos., of Lancaster, deceased . * . 70 10 0
Brockelesse, John, of Lancaster, gent. . º . 151 0 0 || Jackson, John, of Overton, gent. . e tº * 6 0 0
Brownelow, Randal, of Pemberton, husbandman . 15 0 0 || Kirby, John, of Kirby, gent. g * g . 36 5 4
Baxter, Charles, of Newton . e * e . 21 0 0 || Kitson, Thomas, of Warton, gent. e e , 390 0 0
Brabarn, Thomas, of Whittington e tº . 122 17 0 || Livesey, Rd., of Breadhalgh, gent. $. g ... 10 0 0
Butterworth, Alex., of Belfield . s º g 3 6 8 || Leckonby, Richard, of Elwick . º * . 58 6. 0
Byrom, John, of Salford, gent. . tº g . 201 16 6 || Moseley, Nichols, of Ancotes, gent. e * . 170 0 0
Byrom, Edward, of Salford, gent . g 4. & 2 6 8 || Moseley, Sir Edw., of Ancotes g e g . 4874 0 0
Bowker, Adam, of Salford . * tº g . 16 13 0 || Mosley, Francis, and Nicholas his son, of Collyhurst,
Bowker, Peter, of Manchester º 4. e . 12 0 0 gent. e º g © g º * e 0 0
Beckingham, Rowland, of Hornby d º . 16 0 0 || Morley, Francis, of Wennington, gent. . g . 160 0 ()
Carus, Thos., of Halton, gent. . . . . . . 516 10 0 || Morte, George, of Blackrod, Esq. . g gy . 46 10 0
Chisenhall, Ed., of Chisenhall, Esq. . e . 480 0 0 | Middleton, Sir George, of Layton, Knt. and Bart.,
Charnoke, Robert, of Astley, Esq. * & . 260 0 0 with £60 per annum settled g g g . 855 0 0
Cowling, Thurstan, of Chorley . e g . 10 13 0 || Mollineux, Robt., of the Wood, gent. , g , 240 0 0
Collier, James, of Rainford . * * g . 36 8 0 | Norris, John, of Bolton º g * . 50 0 0
Cooling, James, of Chorley, mower q º g 9 0 0 | Norris, Alexander, of the same . * * , 15 0 0
Croston, Richard, of Heath-Charnock . g . 12 0 0 || Nuttall, Joshua, of Church . s tº e . 20 0 0
Charnock, Thomas, of Leyland, gent. . o . 58 0 0 | Nowell, Roger, of Read, Esq. * g ū . 736 4 6
Cotterell, John, of Brandle . º & s . 20 9 6 || Nicholson, Francis, jun., of Poulton, yeoman . 133 3 4
Dawson, Thomas, of Rosthwaite, gent. . º . 45 0 0 | Norris, Robt., of Kirby, yeoman . * g ... 107 11 8
Dewhurst, Wm., of Dewhurst, gent. . e . 186 10 0 | Norris, Thomas, of Speak, Esq. . t & . 508 () ()
Forth, William, of Wigan . º ſº e . 40 0 0 || Ogle, Cuthbert, of Whiston, gent. s º . 120 0 0
Fearnely, Ann, of Warrington . . & & . 21 0 0 || Orrell, Rd., of Farrington, gent. . g t . 22 10 0
Fleetwood, Joseph, of Penwortham, Esq. p . 641 3 4 || Pendleton, Henry, of Manchester . sº * . 80 0 (0
Eincham, Ralph, of Cottam, gent. * * . 125 0 0 | Prescott, William, of Upholland . e tº . 27 0 ()
Farington, Wm., Sen, of Werden, Esq. e . 536 0 0 | Prestwich, Sir Thomas, and Thomas his son, of
Foxcroft, Henry, of Claughton tº g * 2 0 0 Hulme . & & & º tº * . 330 0 (0
Foster, Robert, of Coppull, tanner. & & † 8 15 0 | Preston, George, of Natby . g 3. * . 30 0 0
Farington, William, the younger, of Werden, gent. 117 13 4 | Preston, Thomas, of Holker, Esq., with £120 per
Garside, Gabriel, of Rochdale * * g . 28 0 0 annum, Settled . g ſº sº g ſº . 186 17 0
Gerrard, Thomas, of Ince, gent. . • . . 209 0 0 | Potter, Alexander, of Manchester , º # tº 4 5 0
Gerrard, Thos., of Aughton, gent. º & 80 0 0 || Pilkington, John, of Adlington . wº t wº 7 10 ()
Gerrard, Richard, of Bryn, Esq. . e § , 100 0 0 || Pilkington, Richard, of Coppull . t * . 11 5 5
Gregson, John Wood, of Plumpton g & . 51 7 0 | Prescot, Robert, of Standish . g t © & 8 0 (0
1 The mere fact of professing the Roman Catholic religion sub- whole estate, and two parts of his goods. The sittings of the Com-
jected “the delinquent” to forfeit two parts out of three of his mittee of sequestration for Lancashire were usually held at Preston.
2 G
226 Oſije #igforg ºf £attrašijire.
CHAP, XV.
£ S. d. £ S. d.
Pilkington, Richard, of Wigan . . 29 5 0 | Trevillian, Robt., of Didsbury, yeoman 50 0 0
Rascoe, John, of Aspeth [? Aspull] 10 0 0 || Twiford, Rich., of Didsbury, yeoman 44 0 0
Tyly, Thomas, of Chatburn . . 50 0 0 | Tempest, William, of Wigan 7 14 0
Robinson, Edmund, of Newland 40 0 0 | Taylor, John, of Oldham . e g º , 10 0 0
Rigby, Alex., of Burgh, Esq. g 381 3 4 || Townson, Robert, of Cansfield & g * & 2 5 0
Rawlingson, Robt., of March-Grange . 8046 0 0 || Twiford, Robt., of Didsbury, gent. º . 45 15 4
Rivington, James, of Euxton 14 12 6 Valentine, John, of Beaucliffe, in the parish of
Radcliffe, William, of Balderston . e & . 15 0 0 Eccles, gent. . tº * g g & . 255 4 9
Raphson, Edmund, of Ince-Blundell . e . 11 1 0 || Woodward, Alex., of Shevington . 44 0 0
Rogerson, William, of Coppull º g , 10 5 0 || Walker, William, of Kirkham, gent. 175 0 0
Raincars, Nicholas, of Hindley e e . 21 11 10 | Wall, Thomas, of Prescot . tº 20 0 0
Rogerson, John, of Manchester . . * . . 4 18 4 || Wakefield, John, of Standish, mower 20 0 0
Seddon, John, of Hentley [? Hindley] . . 10 0 0 || Walmesley, Edward, of Banister Hall . . 114 0 0
Slaughter, Henry, of LightCocks . * 130 0 0 | Welshman, Hugh, of Samlesbury . e * ſº 3 10 0
Shartock, Ralph, of Wolson . e 50 0 0 || Widdowes, John, of Lawton, gent. . 34 14 0
Stanley, Ferdinando, of Broughton g 150 0 0 | Westfield, Richard, of Overton * * , 34 0 0
Sherrington, Francis, of Boothes, Esq. . * 373 10 0 Wood, John, of Prestwich . tº e $ º 0 10 0
Summer, John, and Wm. his son, of Leyland 805 0 0 || Wood, Francis, of Gressingham . & e . 51 15 0
Shaw, Henry, of Langrope . • . e. 23 0 0 | Whittingham, Richard, of Clayton 118 10 0
Sandis, Wm., of Easthwaite, gent. 50 0 0 || Wildbore, Augustus, of Lancaster, D.D. 132 2 6
Stanley, Wm., of Woodhall, gent. 46 13 0 || Winckley, Wm., of Billington, gent. . 26 0 0
Southworth, John, of Samlesbury. 358 18 9 || Windresse, Wm., of Nether-Wiersdale . 30 19 9
Talbot, Sir John, of Salop, Knt. 444 0 0 | Wignall, John, of Halsall # e 12 3 0

The estates of Thomas Eccleston, of Eccleston, esq., deceased, were also sequestrated, but an allowance
was made to his widow and children of the fifth part of those estates for their maintenance." The extensive
estates of the earl of Derby shared the same fate; but on a petition of Charles, Lord Strange, Edward and
William, the earl's sons, and the ladies Henrietta-Maria, Catherine, and Amelia, his daughters, a fifth part of
the earl’s estates was allowed for their maintenance, and the manor of Knowsley, with the house and lands
belonging to it, formed part of that allowance, with a strict injunction that no timber should be felled upon
the lands, but that the same should be preserved according to the order of sequestration.”
The national religion, so far as regarded its government, was now changed, and presbyterianism had
superseded episcopacy. The Independents, however, were the ascendant party in parliament ; and though
their principles reject all ecclesiastical establishments and all human interference in matters of religion, they
so far sacrificed their own views as to submit to a temporary trial of “presbyterial church government.”
Parliament had chosen an assembly of divines to obtain their advice in settling the government, liturgy, and
doctrine of the church; and this synod, usually called The Assembly of Divines, met at Westminster, in
Henry VII.'s chapel, for the first time on the 1st of July 1643; some of the counties having two, and others
only one member. Lancashire had but one—namely, Richard Heyricke, M.A., of Manchester.” The as-
sembly consisted of one hundred and eight members, including five commissioners from Scotland and three
scribes. Their first duty was to draw up the confession of faith, and the larger and shorter catechism still
in use amongst the evangelical dissenters. In London and Lancashire the Humble Advice of the Westminster
Assembly of Divines concerning church-government was promptly adopted. The plan recommended was to
divide England and Wales into provinces, and annual conferences were appointed for the regulation of eccle-
siastical affairs. Preston, from its central situation, was selected as the place for holding the first meeting of
the Lancashire Classes, which were formed according to the following
ORDINANCE OF PARLIAMENT.
LANCASHIRE CLASSICAL PRESBYTERIES.
“Die Veneris, 2d October 1646.
“The County of Lancaster is divided into the nine classical Presbyteries following:—
I. CLASSIS.
“Parishes of Manchester, Prestwich, Oldham, Flixton, Eccles, and Ashton-under-Lyne.
MINISTERS.
Mr. Richd Heyricke *
R.†.rth | Mancheste
John Angier of Denton
Wm. Walker of Newton
Toby Furnes of Prestwich
Humphrey Barnet of Oldham
John Jones of Eccles -
John Harrison of Ashton-under-Lyne.
LAYMEN.
Robert Hyde of Denton, Esqr
Richd Howorth of Manchr, Esq.
Robt. Ashton of Shepley, Esq.
Thos. Strangeways of Gorton, Esq.
Wm. Booth of Reddish
John Gaskell of Manchr
Edw. Sandiforth of Oldham \
John Birch of Openshaw
i
Thomas Smith of Manchester
Peter Serjant of Pilkington
Robert Leech of Ashton
John Wright of Bradford
Wm. Peake of Worsley
Thos. Taylor of Flixton
Thos. Barlowe of Eccles
Peter Seddon of Pilkington
James Jolly of Droylsden
i
!
J
1 Ordinance of Parliament, July 11, 1645. * Order of the Committee, dated Manchester, Sept. 24, 1647.
* Nonconformists’ Memorial.
CHAP. XV.
227
Qſìje 3%istory of £antagüíre.
II. CLASSIS.
“Parishes of Bolton, Middleton, Bury, Ratchdale, Dean, and Radcliffe.
MINISTERS.
Mr. John Harper of Bolton
Wm. Ashton of Middleton
Wm. Alte
Andrew Lathom
John Scolfield of Bury
Robert Bathe of Ratchdale
Alexander Horrocks
John Tilsley
James Walter of Dean
Thomas Pyke of Radcliffe
MINISTERS.
Mr. Adam Boulton of Blackburn
Rt. Worthington of Harwood
Rich. Redman of Low Church
Wm. Walker of Whalley
Henry Morrice of Burnley
John Bryers of Padiham
Wm. Ingham of Church
John King of Chipping
LAYMEN.
Ralph Ashton of Middleton
John Bradshaw of Bradshaw
Edm. Hopwood of Hopwood
Robt. Leaver of Darcy Leaver
Edw. ButterWorth of Belfield
Ralph Worthington of Smithells
John Andrews of Little Leaver
Robt. Heywood of Heywood
Peter Holt of Heape
Arthur Smeathurst of Heape
Thos. Eccersall of Bury
III. CLASSIS.
- LAYMEN.
Sir Ralph Ashton, Bart.
Rich. Shuttleworth Sen.
Rich. Shuttleworth Jun,
John Starkie
John Parker
Rich. Ashton of Downham
John Livesay of Livesay
Thos. Barcroft of Barcroft
|
!
IIII. CLASSIS.
James Stot of Healey
Pobert Pares of Ratchdale
Hy Molyneux of West Houghton
John Bradshaw of Darcy Leaver
John Scolfield of Castleton
Gyles Green of West Houghton
IHenry Seddon of Heaton
Roger Hardman of Radcliffe
|Bich. Dickonson of Aynsworth
Eman! Thompson of Ratchdale, Clothſ
Samuel Wylde of Ratchdale, Mower
“Parishes of Blackburn, Whalley, Chipping, and Ribble Chester.
Nicholas Cunliffe of Wycollar
Robt. Cunliffe of Sparthe
John Cunliffe of Hollins
Nicholas Rishton of Anteley
Roger Geliborn of Bedwood
Wm. Yates of Blackburn
John Howorth of Clayton
Thos. Whalley of Rishton
Chas. Gregory of Haslinden
“Parishes of Warrington, Winwick, Leigh, Wigan, Holland, and Prescot.
- MINISTERS.
Mr. Chas. Herle of Winwick
Thos. Norman of Newton
James Woods of Ashton
Wm. Leigh of Newchurch
Hen. Atherton of Hollinkaire'
Bradley Hayhurst of Leigh
Thos. Crompton of Astley
James Bradshaw of Wigan
Thos. Tonge of Hindley
Henry Shaw of Holland
Wm. Plant Of Farnworth
Rich. Modesley of Ellins
Timothy Smith of Rainforth
John Wright of Billinge
“Parishes of Walton, Hyton,
MINISTERS.
Mr. Wm. Ward of Walton
John Fog of Liverpool
Robert Port of Toxteth
Rich. Pickering of Kirkeby
Wm. Norcot of Darby
Wm. Bell of Hyton
David Ellison of Childwall
Henry Bolton of Hale
Josh. Tompson of Sephton
John Kid of Crosby
Bobert Seddon of Altker
James Starkie of North Meals
Thos. Johnson of Halsal
Peter Harrison of Hindley
TAYMEN.
Wm. Ashurst of Ashurst
Peter Brook of Sankey
Wm. Vernon of Shakerley -N
John Dunbabin of Warrington
Thos. Risley of Warrington
Robt. Watmough of Winwick
Gilbert Eden of Winwick
John Ashton of Newton
Jas. Pilkington of Ashton
Rich. Astley of Tildesley
Henry Morrice of Atherton
Alex. Tompson of Wigan
#
!
Thos. Sephton of Skelmersdale J
W. CLASSIS.
Jeffrey Birchall of Orrel
John Latham of Whiston
Wm. Barns of Sankey
John Marsh of Bold
Thurstan Peak of Warrington
Edw. Heaton of Billing
George Aynsworth of Newton
Arthur Leech of West Leigh
Peter Smith of West Leigh
Thomas Guest of Astley
Geo. Dean of Rainhill
John Rylands of Sutton
Roger Topping of Dalton
Peter Leyland of Haydock
Childwell, Sephton, Altker, North-Meals, Halsal, Ormskirk, and Aughton,
Mr. Wm. Dune of Ormskirk
James Worral of Aughton
LAYMEN.
John Moor -
Gilbert Ireland Esqrs.
Jn. Wilkinson Sen. of Liverpool Y
Jerh. Aspinwall of Toxteth -
Peter Ambrose of Toxteth
Henry Mercer of Darby
Wm. Plomb of Woolton
James Moss of Crossend
Thos. Hesketh of Halsal
Thos. Bootle of Melling
|
VI, CLASSIS.
Hugh Cooper of Ormskirk
Peter Blundell of Scarisbrick
Jas. Cross of Aughton
Nicholas Cooper of Kirkdale
Edwd. Chambers of Liverpool
Henry Woods of Kirkby
Thos. Thomason of Darby
Thos. Tyrer of Hyton
Bryan Soothworth of Tarbocke
John Williamson of Woolton
Thos. Rothwell of Ince -
Wm. Watkinson of Blowick
Wm. Wilson of Lidyate
“Parishes of Croston, Leyland, Standish, Eccleston, Penwortham, Hoole, and Brindle.
MINISTERS.
Mr. James Hyett of Croston
Paul Lathom of Standish
Edward Gee of Eccleston
Henry Welch of Chorley
James Langley of Leyland
Ralph Marsden of Brindle
TAYMEN.
Sir Richard Houghton, Bart.
Peter Cateral of Crook, Esqr.
Thos. Wilson of Wrightington
John Cliffe of Brotherton
John Benson of Winnel
Ralph Leaver of Chorley
Roger Haddock of Chorley, yeoman.
i
Edward Doughty of Adlington
John Pincock of Euxton
Alexr. Chisnal of Whittle.
Geo. Dandy of Croston
Thos. Wasley of Chorley
John Crane of Eccleston
John Cowdray of Longton
|
i
>
2
2
8.
ſiſt £istory of £aitragjire. CHAP, XV,
VII. CLASSIS.
“Parishes of Preston, Kirkham, Garstang, and Poulton.
MINISTERS. LAYMEN. Thos. Nickson of Plompton &
Mr. Isaac Ambrose | Preston Alexander Rigby Esqr Robt. Crane of Leaton #
Robert Yates {} William Langton Sqrs. Wm. Latewise of Catteral §
Ed. Fleetwood of Kirkham # ( Matthew Addison of Preston , Richd. Whitehead of Garstange \ CŞ
Thos. Cranage of Gosemargh $ 3 Wm. Sudal of Preston #!, Edward Veal of Langton, Esq.
Chr. Edmondson of Garstange 3 ( Wm. Cottam of Preston 5 Richd. Wilkins of Kirkham Y
John Sumner of Poulton Edwd. Downs of Wesam. CŞ Edmd. Turner of Gosenargh €OIIlêIle
VIII, CLASSIS.
“Parishes of Lancaster, Cockerham, Claughton, Melling, Tatham, Tunstal, Whittington, Warton, Bolton, Helton, and Husom.
MINISTERS. LAYMEN. Robert Curwen of Kellet, Gent.
Mr. Nehmh, Barnet of Lancaster Henry Porter of Lancaster Y Wm. Greenbank of Halton Y
John Sill of Gressingham Wm. West of Middleton & James Thornton of Melling | .
Peter Atkinson of Ellel Wm. Turner of Melling 5 Wm. Wither of Brownedge 5
Nicholas Smith of Tatham Thos, Rippon of Lancaster # Edmd. Barwick of Highfield 5
Rd. Jackson of Whittington Wm. Gardner of Glasson E Robt. Eskrigg of Whittington º
Richd. Walker of Warton Thos. Toulson of Lancaster & Henry Storry of Storry
John Jaques of Bolton Geo. Toulson of Lancaster Christopher Shearson of Ellel
Thomas Whitehead of Halton Thos. Clayton of Wiersdale J Henry Holme of Kellet |
Robert Lucus of Kellet, yeoman.
IX. CLASSIS.
“Parishes of Aldingham, Ursewick, Ulverstone, Hauxhead, Coulton, Daulton, Cartmel, Kirkby, and Wennington.
MINISTERS. - LAYMEN. Robt. Rawlinson of Greenhead
Mr. Thomas Shaw of Aldingham Thomas Fell Esqs Thos. Fell of Scarthwaite Gentn.
Philip Bennet of Ulverstone Edward Rigby QS. Wm. Rawlinson of Graithwaite
Yemp of Hauxhead Adam Sands of Booth Thomas Dawson of Lear Y
Bryan Willow of Coulton John Sawry of Plympton & Gentn. Richd, Ayres of Belefe €OIſlēll.
John Marigold of Cartmel Wm. Knipe of Cartmel -
“Resolved, by the Lords and Commons assembled in Parliament,
“That they do approve of the division of the County of Lancaster into the nine Classical Presbyteries, represented from the said
County. - - -
“Resolved—That the said houses do approve of the Ministers and other persons represented from the County of Lancaster, as fit
to be of the several and respective Classes into which the said County is divided.
“JE : BROWN, Cler. Parliamentorum.
“HEN. E.L.DYNGE, Cler. Parl. D. Com.”
In the course of this year, a memorable petition, subscribed by 12,500 “well-affected gentlemen,
ministers, freeholders, and other inhabitants of the county palatine of Lancaster,” was sent to the two houses
of parliament, expressive of the ardent desire of the petitioners for the settlement of the religion of the
state, according to the solemn covenant, and for the suppression of schism, heresy, and blasphemy, and for
the continued union and good correspondence between England and Scotland. To this it was replied that
parliament held themselves obliged by the zeal of the petitioners in favour of these important objects, and
particularly by their attachment to the solemn league and covenant. On the 9th of December parliament
resolved that the several classes in Lancashire should form one province ; and on the same day it was
announced that Sir Richard Hoghton, Colonel Edward Rosseter, Colonel Edmond Harvey, Colonel Thos.
Wayte, Mr. Henry Arthington, Mr. Robert Clive, Sir John Fenwick, Mr. Robert Charlton, Mr. Thos.
Broughton, Sir Francis Drake, Colonel George Booth, Mr. Alex. Thistlethwayte, Mr. John Spelman, Mr.
Walter Kirle, Sir Richard Skeffington, Mr. E. Crymes, Mr. John Dixwell, Mr. John Lloyd, Mr. Wm. Crowther,
Sir James Harrington, Col. Edward Harley, Mr. Robert Parker, Mr. Humphrey Edwards, Mr. Edmund Fowell,
Col. John Birch, had taken the solemn league and covenant. - -
Although the king was a prisoner, and the royal cause for the present seemed utterly hopeless, another
attempt was made in 1648 to re-light the embers of civil war. General Langdale, an officer in the interest
of the king, had assembled a considerable force in the northern counties, near the Scotch frontier, and an
army was collected in Scotland, to be placed under the command of Duke Hamilton, which was intended to
penetrate into England, to retrieve the fortunes of the Stuarts. The approach of this force produced a deep
sensation in Lancashire, and repeated meetings of the county were called, to provide the necessary force to
resist the invaders, and to secure the persons and property of the inhabitants. The House of Commons, fully
aware of the approaching danger, despatched Col. Ashton, Major Brooke, and Mr. Fell, members of that
house, into Lancashire, with instructions from the committee at Derby House to employ their best endeavours
for the Safety and preservation of the county;" and Peter Bold of Bold, esq., and John Anderton of
* Journals of the Commons, May 17, 1648.
CHAP, XW. Oſije #istºrg of £antasijire. 229
Anderton, esq., were added to the committee of Lancashire. Early in May Colonel Rigby convened a general
meeting of the gentry at Bolton, at which it was agreed to raise forthwith all the forces of the county, and
warrants were issued for that purpose. On the following Monday, another general meeting was held at
Preston, when it was resolved that all the forces of the county that could be raised in time to the south of
Garstang should march to Lancaster, to co-operate with the forces of the hundred of Lonsdale, stationed at
that place; and the forces of the hundred of Amounderness, with horse and foot, under the command of
Lieut.-Colonel Alex. Rigby, marched without delay." An additional brigade was ordered to be raised in the
county, the command of which was confided to Colonel Ralph Ashton, now advanced to the rank of Major-
General of the Lancashire forces, with the “entertainment " of forty shillings per diem, over and above his
pay of colonel of horse, and colonel of foot, with instructions to join Major-General Lambert, in the service of
the north. For the purpose of infusing the requisite vigour into these military preparations, a month's pay
in advance was ordered for the officers and soldiers of the county of Lancaster, and £4000 was directed to be
paid out of the sequestrations of Westmorland for that purpose, with £10,000 out of the grand excise for
their further payment. The officers and soldiers of the county of Lancaster in May put forth a declaration,
in which they protested that “they owned the Solemn league and covenant of the three kingdoms; that they
would support the established government of king, lords, and commons; that as to papists, malignant
abettors of former innovations, or other disaffected persons, they detested them from the bottom of their
hearts, and would resist them with their lives and fortunes.” At this period the danger was considered so
imminent that the assizes for the county palatine were adjourned sine die, and the judges were ordered to
postpone the assizes in the whole of the northern circuit.” All eyes were now turned upon this part of the
kingdom, and reports were made from Lancashire to the parliament almost at every sitting, indicating the
approach of the enemy, and the state of preparation in which the county stood for their reception. A
committee was appointed in parliament, under the designation of “The Committee of Lancashire,” which sat
at Derby House; and by this body it was ordered, that four colonels of foot and two of horse, with their
regiments, then in readiness in the northern part of the county, should join Major-General Lambert. Colonel
Alex. Rigby commanded one of the regiments of horse, and Colonel Nicholas Shuttleworth the other; while
Colonel Dodding, Colonel Standish, Colonel Ashton, and Colonel Ughtred Shuttleworth were placed in
command of the foot-regiments. The campaign opened on the 4th of July, with an engagement between
Colonel Lilburne, at the head of a party of 600 horse, and Sir Richard Tempest, with a superior force, which
terminated in favour of the colonel, who captured 600 of the enemy's horse, and made 300 prisoners.” At
length it was announced that Duke Hamilton had entered England at the head of 17,000 troops; and
that it was his purpose to march from Cumberland along the western coast, while General Sir Marmaduke
Langdale advanced in a parallel direction from Northumberland, keeping to the east, but so arranging their
plan of operation that they might be able to form a speedy junction, when, by the nature of the service, it
might be required. The force under General Lambert was found wholly insufficient to arrest this torrent
from the north, and Oliver Cromwell was ordered by parliament to march out of Yorkshire into Lancashire,
to resist their further progress. These orders he promptly obeyed, and advancing on the 16th of August to
Hodder Bridge, he was joined by Major-General Ashton with the Lancashire force. A council of war was
assembled at this place, and Cromwell learned that the Scotch troops, under Duke Hamilton, had been joined
by an Irish force under General Monroe, and that they were also in communication with Sir Marmaduke
Langdale's division. Early in the morning of Thursday the 17th of August, Cromwell advanced from
Stoneyhurst towards Preston, where he found the forces under Sir Marmaduke Langdale drawn up upon
Ribbleton Moor, while the principal part of Duke Hamilton's force had passed over Ribble bridge, and were
posted in Walton-le-dale, between the Ribble and the Darwen. By a most extraordinary oversight, the duke
not only suffered Sir Marmaduke's forces to be beaten without affording them any assistance, but he allowed
the parliamentary troops to fall upon their flanks, and to cut off the communication between the Scotch and
the English army. Sir Marmaduke, finding it impossible to resist the advance of the enemy, retreated before
them into the town of Preston, where the duke was quartered, and a sanguinary engagement took place in
the streets, which terminated in favour of Cromwell, who, having forced the bridge of the Ribble, advanced
over the Darwen, and passed the night within musket-shot of the duke's forces. Notwithstanding the great
superiority of the duke's army in point of numbers, they retreated during the night towards Wigan, and took
up their quarters in that town. Here they were closely pursued on the following day. On Saturday they
resumed their march towards Warrington, but being overtaken near Winwick, a desperate engagement took
place, which served to complete their overthrow. At Warrington, a large division of the Scotch army, under
General Bayley, capitulated, on the hard condition, that the general should surrender himself and all his
officers and soldiers prisoners of war, with their arms, ammunition, and horses, upon quarter for life. The
1 Rushworth’s Collections, viii. 1123. -- - 8 Journals of the House of Commons.
2 Journals of the House of Commons, Aug. 1, 1648. In the year. * According to the opinion often afterwards expressed by Sir
1650, a discussion arose in parliament upon the propriety of holding Marmaduke Langdale to Lord Clarendon, if Duke Hamilton had sent
the Lancashire assizes at Preston, but the decision was finally in him. One thousand foot to reinforce his troops upon Ribbleton Moor,
favour of Lancaster, - * * * - , , . - Cromwell must have been defeated,
230
CHAP, XV.
(Iije Đigtorg ºf 3Lattašijire.
duke afterwards fled, with the wreck of his army, towards Nantwich, but the country people fell upon the
stragglers, and the duke himself was made prisoner, and subsequently beheaded. In this campaign of three
days, the royalist army of 21,000 men was defeated, and almost annihilated, by a force of little more than
one-third their number, and with a loss on the part of Cromwell of scarcely fifty men.' The official despatches,
containing the history of this short but memorable campaign, from the pen of Cromwell, are strikingly
characteristic of the language and the spirit of the age.”
This splendid victory was celebrated as a day of general thanksgiving throughout the whole kingdom,
by Order of parliament, and commissions passed the great seal to commissioners in the counties of Lancaster,
York, etc., to inquire into the losses that had been sustained by the inhabitants in consequence of the
invasion of the Scots under Duke Hamilton, and to make satisfaction for those losses.
In furtherance of this
object, an order was issued by parliament, that a collection should be made on the day of general thanksgiving
in all the churches and chapels in the kingdom, and that the money collected should be employed, one moiety
“for the relief and support of the wounded soldiers in Lancashire,” and the other for the distressed people
in that county, who were suffering at this time under the combined visitation of the sword, pestilence, and
famine."
* Lord Clarendon's History, iii. p. 246. It is stated by Noble,
that Cromwell's son Henry, a captain in Harrison's regiment of
horse, fell in the battle of Preston; but this is a mistake, nor does
it appear that any officer of distinction in the parliamentary army,
with the exception of Colonel Thornhaugh, was numbered amongst the
slain.
* LIEUTENANT-GENERAL CROMWELL's TIETTER TO THE
SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF COMMONS.
66 Sir,
“After the conjunction of that Party which I brought
with me out of Wales, with the Northern Forces about Knares-
|brough and Wetherby, hearing that the Enemy was advanced with
their Army into Lancashire, we came the 6th instant to Hodder
Bridge over Ribble, where we had a Council of War; and upon
Advertisement the Enemy intended Southward, and since confirmed,
that they resolved for London it self, and Information that the
Irish Forces under Monroe, lately come out of Ireland, which con-
sisted of 1200 Horse and 1500 Foot, were on their march towards
Lancashire to join with them ; it was thought to engage the Enemy
to fight was our Business: And accordingly marching over the
Bridge that Night, quartered the whole Army in the Fields. Next
Morning we marched towards Preston, having Intelligence, that the
Enemy was drawing together thereabouts from all his Out-Quarters,
we drew out a Forlorn of about 200 Horse and 400 Foot; these
gallantly engaged the Enemy's Scouts and Out-guards, until we had
opportunity to bring up our whole army. So soon as our Foot and
Horse were come up, we resolved that Night to engage them if we
could ; and therefore advancing with our Forlorns, and putting the
rest of the Army into as good a Posture as the ground would bear
(which was totally inconvenient for our Horse, being all Inclosure
and miery Ground), we pressed upon them through a Lane, and
forced them from their ground, after four Hours Dispute, until we
came to the Town; into which four Troops of my Regiment first
entred ; and being well seconded by Coll. Harrison's Regiment,
Charged the Enemy in the Town and cleared the Streets. At last
the Enemy was put into Disorder, many Men slain, and many Pri-
soners taken : The Duke with most of the Scot's Horse and Foot
retreated over the Bridge; where, after a very hot Dispute betwixt
the Lancashire Regiments (part of my Lord General's and them
being at push of Pike), they were beaten from the Bridge, and our
Horse and Foot, following them, killed many, and took divers
Prisoners; and we possessed the Bridge over Darvent and a few
houses there, the enemy being drawn up within musquet shot of us,
where we lay that Night, we not being able to attempt farther upon
the enemy, the Night preventing us. In this posture did the
Enemy and we lie most part of that Night; upon entering the
Town, many of the Enemy's Horse fled towards Lancaster, in the
Chase of whom we had divers of our Horse, who pursued them near
Ten Miles, and had Execution of them, and took about Five hun-
dred Horse, and many Prisoners: We possessed in the Fight very
much of the Enemy's Ammunition; I believe they lost Four or
Five Thousand Arms; the number of the slain we judge to be about
a Thousand, the Prisoners we took near about 4000.
“In the Night they marched away, 7 or 8 Thousand Foot, and
about Four Thousand Horse ; we followed them with about Three
Thousand Foot, and about Two Thousand Five Hundred Horse and
Dragoons; and in this Prosecution that worthy Gentleman, Coll.
Thornhaugh, pressing too boldly, was slain, being run into the
Body, Thigh, and Head, by the Enemy's Lancers : Our Horse still
prosecuted the Enemy, killing and taking divers all the way; but
'by that time our Army was come up, they recovered Wigan before
we could attempt any thing upon them. We lay that Night in the
Field close by the Enemy, lying very dirty and weary, where we had
some skirmishing, &c. We took Major-General Van Druske, Col.
Hurrey, and Lieut.-Col. Ennis.
“The next morning the Enemy marched towards Warrington,
made a stand at a Pass near Winaick; we held them in some Dis-
pute until our Army was come up, they maintaining the Pass with
great Resolution for Many Hours; but our Men, by the Blessing of
God, Charged very home upon them, beat them from their Standing,
where we killed about a Thousand of them, and took (as we believe)
about Two Thousand Prisoners, and prosecuted them home to
Warrington Town, where they possessed the Bridge. As soon as
we came thither, I received a Message from Lieut.-General Bailey,
desiring some Capitulation; to which I yielded, and gave him these
Terms: That he should surrender himself and all his Officers and
Soldiers Prisoners of War, with all his Arms, Ammunition and
Horses, upon Quarter for Life, which accordingly is done. Here
are took about Four Thousand complete Arms, and as many Pri-
soners: And thus you have their infantry ruined.
“The Duke is marched with his remaining Horse (which are about
3000) towards Namptwich, where the Gentlemen of the Country
have taken about 500 of them ; the Country will scarce suffer any
of them to pass, but bring in and kill divers as they light upon
them. I have sent Post to my Lord Grey and Sir Edward Roades,
to gather all together with speed for their Prosecution; Monroe is
about Cumberland, with the Horse that ran away, and his Irish
Horse and Foot ; but I have left a considerable Strength, I hope,
to make resistance, till we can come up to them.
“Thus you have the Narrative of the particulars of the Success.
I could hardly tell how to say less, there being so much of God, and
I was not willing to say more, least there should seem to be any
thing of man ; only give me leave to add One word, shewing the
disparity of the Forces of both sides, that so you may see, and all
the world acknowledge, the great Hand of God in this Business.
The Scot's Army could not be less than 12000 Foot well armed, and
5000 Horse; Langdale not less than 2500 Foot, and 1500 Horse ;
in all, One and Twenty Thousand : In ours, in all, about 8600 ;
and by Computation about 2000 of the Enemy's slain, betwixt Fight
and Nine Thousand Prisoners, besides what are lurking in Hedges
and private Places, which the Country daily bring in or destroy.
“Your very humble
“August 20, 1648.” “OLIVER, CROMWELL.”
8 Journals of the Commons, August 23, 1648.
4. In a memorial entitled, “A true Representation of the present
sad and lamentable condition of the County of Tancaster, and parti-
cularly of the Towns of Wigan, Ashton, and the parts adjacent,
verified by James Hyet, Richard Hollinworth, Isaac Ambrose, and
John Tilsley, Ministersſof the Gospel,” it is said—“There is very
great scarcity and dearth of all provisions, especially of all sorts of
grain, particularly that kind by which the country is most sustained
(oats), which is full six-fold its usual price: all trade is utterly
decayed; it would melt any good heart to see the numerous Swarms
of begging poor, and the many families that pine away at home, not
having force to beg : very many now craving alms at other men's
doors, who were used to give alms at their own doors; and some of
them, already being at the point to perish through famine, have
fetched in and eaten carrion and other unwholesome food, to the
destruction of themselves and increase of the infection.” -
CHAP, XV. (Uiſt ºigturn of £antagjirº, 231
Part of Sir Marmaduke Langdale's horse, having effected their escape to the north after the battle of
Preston, engaged in the siege of Cockermouth, but Major-General Ashton, by whom they were pursued,
having raised the seige at that place, marched to Appleby, where the royalist force capitulated on his
summons, and upwards of 100 officers of various ranks, five pieces of cannon, 1200 horse, and 1000 stand of
arms, fell into his hands." The danger of the renewal of the war was now considered so entirely at an end
that an order was issued by parliament for disbanding all the officers and soldiers, both horse and foot, in the
county of Lancaster, and this duty was confided to Major-General Lambert. On the disbanding of the
Lancashire forces, an order was issued by parliament for the demolition of Clitheroe Castle, and at the same
time the council of state met to consider what castles should be demolished. Some faint hopes still existed
of a reconciliation between the king and the parliament, and as late as the 13th of November in this year a
negotiation was on foot for that purpose. With this view, an act of oblivion was to be passed, which should
provide for the forgiveness of all offenders except seven, and it was agreed by the two houses that the seven
persons to be excepted from the clemency of the government should be Lord Digby, Sir Marmaduke Langdale,
Sir Richard Greenhill, Judge Jenkins, Sir Francis Dodrington, the earl of Derby, and Lord Byron. These
persons were doomed to be sent into banishment, and an ordinance was drawn up for that purpose ; but the
negotiation failed, the parliament insisting that the bishoprics should be dissolved, and that their lands should
revert to the crown, and the king refusing to acquiesce in that proposal. -
The catastrophe was now fast approaching, and the moderate party in the House of Commons having
been excluded by the act of military violence commonly designated as “Pride's Purge,” on the 20th of
January 1649, a high court of justice was instituted by the “Rump Parliament,” for the trial of the king.
Of this tribunal, John Bradshaw, serjeant-at-law, was elected lord president.” The trial, if such it could be
called, commenced the same day, but the king three several times declined the jurisdiction of this court.
When he was called up the fourth time, several witnesses were examined ; and the court, having come to the
unanimous decision that he was guilty of high treason, adjudged him to be executed by severing his head
from his body. This sentence was carried into effect on the 30th of January 1649 : the king met his fate
with a dignity and composure that awakened the sympathy even of his enemies. The English monarchy,
after existing for eight centuries, was thus transformed into a Commonwealth, but without any of the sub-
stantial advantages of representative government.
In the course of the same year an overture was made by parliament through their commissary-general,
Ireton, for the surrender of the Isle of Man, upon the condition that the earl of Derby should be received into
favour, and that the fine on his estate should be greatly mitigated by the sequestrators: to this offer the
earl replied, that he abhorred with his soul the perfidiousness of disloyalty, and that he never would be
instrumental in casting such an odium as this surrender implied upon the house of Derby. “I scorn,” said
he, “ your proffer, I disdain your favour, I abhor your treason, and so far from delivering up this Island to
the Parliament, I shall keep it for the King to the utmost of my Power; and if you trouble me with any
more messages of this nature, I will burn the paper and hang the Messenger.” The determined spirit of
loyalty manifested in this answer was celebrated by the Cavaliers in prose and in rhyme, and one of their
happiest efforts is expressed in the following stanza:—
“The Isle of Man is yet our owne,
Brave Darby safe and sound;
'Tis he that keepes the English Crown,
Why then should hee Compound?”
The death of Charles I. does not close the melancholy history of the civil wars in Lancashire; another
illustrious victim was yet to follow, whose fate remains to be related. Although monarchy had been abolished
in England, and the government of a commonwealth decreed, Charles II., son of the late king, appeared in
Scotland towards the end of the year 1650, where, having collected an army of 14,000 men, he marched into
England on the 16th of August following, taking the direct route for Lancaster. On the 16th of August the
royal Scotch army, under Duke Hamilton and General Leslie, headed by the king, reached Preston, from
whence they advanced by a rapid march to the south, crossing the bridge of Warrington, which General
Lambert had been directed to break down, and in this way to arrest their progress till the parliamentary
force under Cromwell, which was in close pursuit, came up. Had this order been executed, it is highly
probable that the fate of Charles II, might have been determined, as was that of his royal father, in the
hundreds of Amounderness and West Derby, three years before. Cromwell, at the head of 10,000 infantry,
advanced through Lancashire within two days' march of the royal army, and was joined between Lancaster
and Preston by General Lambert and General Harrison, at the head of 8000 horse. The king, in order to
strengthen his cause, had summoned the earl of Derby from the Isle of Man, where he had hitherto main-
tained his independence. Prompt on all occasions to obey the call of his sovereign, this gallant nobleman
* Official despatches, dated Appleby, Oct. 11, 1648. after the king's death, the president received the appointment,
* President Bradshaw was descended from an ancient Lancashire from the authorities of the Commonwealth, of chancellor of the duchy
family, Subsequently settled at Marple in Cheshire. A few months of Lancaster. -
232 (Iſiſe £istory ºf £amcagüirº, - CHAP. xv.
embarked with 250 foot and 60 horse, and landed in Lancashire." Here he issued his warrant as the king's
lieutenant, commanding all those who were in favour of the royal sway to meet him at Preston in arms.
This call was but feebly obeyed, for though his lordship's plans were well laid, his influence had been much
shaken.” Having collected about 600 horse,” which was swelled by other forces to 1500 men, his lordship
marched to Wigan. Here he was met and encountered by Colonel Lilburne, in Wigan Lane, and a desperate
engagement took place, which terminated in the utter rout of the royalists (Aug. 25). In this short but
sanguinary engagement the earl lost five colonels, the adjutant-general, four lieutenant-colonels, one major,
four captains, and two lieutenants, taken prisoners; and Lord Widdrington, Major-General Sir Thomas
Tildesley, one colonel, and two majors, with a number of other officers slain. After displaying prodigies of
valour, and receiving several severe wounds, the earl found a temporary concealment in a house in Wigan,
from which he escaped during the night, and pursued his route, at the head of about thirty troopers, to join
his royal master at Worcester. Colonel Lilburne's “seasonable victory” over the earl of Derby was, as
usual, made the subject of a public thanksgiving by parliament;" and the king's disappointment on the
arrival of the earl at Worcester was extreme. . - * *
In the battle of Worcester, fought on the 3d of September 1651, Cromwell was again victorious; the royal
army was dispersed, and the king became a fugitive. If the earl of Derby could not replenish the king's
army, he was enabled to find him an asylum in the house of a loyal peasant, at Boscobel, on the borders of
Staffordshire, near which stood the Royal Oak, the emblem of his future restoration: the earl, less fortunate
than his sovereign, was captured in Cheshire on his way to Knowsley, by Major Edge, to whom he surren-
dered on a promise of quarter. In violation of this engagement the earl was put upon his trial for high
treason, before a court-martial held at Chester on the 1st of October, of which Colonel Humphrey Mackworth
was president, on the charge of having corresponded with “Charles Stuart,” in violation of the act of the
12th of August preceding. To this his lordship pleaded that he had surrendered on promise of quarter,
whereby he was exonerated from any charge affecting his life. Very little deliberation was thought necessary
to dispose of this plea ; and the sentence of the court was that he should suffer death by his head being
severed from his body in the public market-place at Bolton, on Wednesday the 15th of October. An appeal
made by the earl to Cromwell, from the decision of the military tribunal, was unavailing, as was also an
attempt made by his lordship to escape, by letting himself down by a rope from the leads of the prison;"
and on the appointed day he was conducted to Bolton, where he had been represented as the author of the
barbarities practised by order of Prince Rupert after the surrender of that place in 1644. Notwithstanding
these representations the sympathy of the people was strongly excited in favour of his lordship ; and when
the executioner came to perform his duty, the spectators expressed their emotions by their tears. After the
necessary time spent in acts of devotion his lordship laid his neck with great firmness on the block, and the
executioner terminated the misfortunes of his disastrous life, by severing his head from his body. Of this
gallant peer Clarendon has said that “he was a man of unquestionable loyalty,” of great honour, and of
clear courage, but that he had the misfortune not to know how to treat his inferiors; and the events of his
life show but too clearly, that he had imbibed no portion of that spirit of amelioration which belonged
to the age in which he lived. By the special order of the earl, his George and Garter were delivered to his
son, who with filial affection attended his father to Bolton on the day of his execution, and the same
evening conveyed his remains to Wigan, from whence they were removed to the family burial-place at
Ormskirk.' - - -
Seven days before his lordship's execution the gallant countess of Derby, who commanded in the Isle of
Man during his absence, received a summons from Captain Young, of the President frigate, to Surrender that
island to the parliament ; to which she replied, “That she was charged with the duty of keeping the island
by her lord's command, and without his orders she would not deliver it up.” The earl, feeling that the
permanent retention of the island was impossible, wrote an affectionate letter of consolation to the countess,
in which he advised her to surrender the island, and by his request this ancient possession of the Stanleys
passed soon after under the sway of the Commonwealth. The countess and her family were now left destitute,
or dependent upon the precarious contributions of their friends; and it was not till after the Restoration that
their circumstances were retrieved, and then only partially. After the battle of Worcester, the remnant
of the royalist army escaped into Chester, and from thence marched into the south-western part of Lancashire,
under Lieutenant-General Lesley and Major-General Middleton ; being overtaken at Middleton, on the 10th
of September, by Major-General Harrison and Colonel Lilburne, a smart engagement ensued, in which the
retreating army was beaten, and General Lesley and General Middleton, with several other officers and 600
of their men, were taken prisoners. Four days previous to this engagement the Scots fugitives had lost a
number of officers and 250 rank and file, in an affair of posts on Heaton Wood Green, between Manchester
- i. Whitelock's Memorials, p. 502. 7 For the most full and accurate account of the circumstances of
2 Arthur Trevor's Letter to the Marquis of Ormonde. this execution, and indeed for the best memoir of the life of this gallant
8 Seacombe. - * Whitelock, p. 505. and unfortunate nobleman, the reader is referred to “The Stanley
* Journals of the Commons, Aug. 29, 1651. Papers,” Part iii., edited by the Rev. Canon Raines, and forming
6 Whitelock's Memorials, p. 511. - vols. 66, 67, and 70 of the Chetham Society's series.—H.
CHAP. XV. The history of Lancashire. 233
and Oldham, and their overthrow was completed by the country people, who rose upon them on their march,
and dispersed them in every direction."
During the latter period of the Commonwealth, while the “Lord-President Bradshaw” held the office of
chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster, the question of abolishing the court of the duchy and county palatine of
Lancaster was frequently discussed in parliament, where a number of conflicting resolutions were adopted by
the House of Commons on this subject. By one of these resolutions it was determined that the court should
continue till the 1st of April 1652, “and no longer ;” by another, that the jurisdiction of the duchy and
county palatine of Lancaster should be continued six months after the first of April; by a third, that it should
be continued till the first of April 1653;” by a fourth, that the abolition of the jurisdiction should be post-
poned sine die, on the petition of the justices of the peace, and two grand juries assembled at the assizes." In
1659 the subject was resumed, when it was resolved that the seal for the county palatine of Lancaster should
be brought into the house on the 1st of November, and then cancelled, no more to be used, and that the profits.
of the seal should be sequestrated for the use of the Commonwealth.” In February 1660 the vote touching the
cancelling of the seal of the county palatine was made null and void," and an act was introduced, and subse-
quently passed, for “reviving the jurisdiction of the Counties Palatine of Lancaster and Chester, and the Court
of the Duchy Chamber of Lancaster.”
After dissolving the long parliament by “push of pike,” Cromwell, having been appointed “LORD-
PROTECTOR,” summoned a new parliament on his own authority, without the intervention of the freeholders
or other electors, as appears from the following document addressed to William West, Esq., the representative
of Lancashire in the “Barebone Parliament :”—
“Forasmuch as upon the dissolution of the late parliament it became necessary that the peace, safety, and good government
of this Commonwealth should be provided for ; and in order thereunto persons fearing God and of approved fidelity and honesty
are by myself, with the advice of my Council of Officers, nominated, to whom the great charge and trust of so weighty affairs is to
be committed ; and having good assurance of your love to and courage for God, and the interest of his cause, and of the good
people of this commonwealth —
“I, Oliver Cromwell, captain general and commander-in-chief of all the armies and forces raised and to be raised within this
Commonwealth, do hereby summon and require you, William West, Esquire (being one of the persous nominated), personally to be
and appear at the Council Chamber, commonly known or called by the name of the Council Chamber in Whitehall, within the city
of Westminster, upon the 4th day of July next ensuing the date hereof, then and there to take upon you said trust, unto which you
are hereby called and appointed to serve as a member for the county of Lancaster, and hereof you are not to fail. Given under my
hand and seal the 6th day of June 1653. ‘‘ O. CROMWELL.”
This assumption of more than regal powers became the subject of strong animadversion, while it was
justified by the devoted creatures of the lord-protector, who carried their adulation so far as to make him an
offer of the crown. Cromwell had too much policy to fall into this snare ; but the evening of his life was
clouded with painful apprehensions of plots and treasons, the general attendants upon usurped power; and,
after a short sickness, he expired on the 3d of September 1658. On the death of the lord-protector,
President Bradshaw was elevated to the seat of President of the Council, and would have been appointed
Commissioner of the Great Seal, had not his growing infirmities disqualified him for that station. During
his last illness he adhered steadily to his former principles, and declared that, were the king to be tried again,
he would be the first man to sit as his judge. Having survived to the eve of the great changes that were
now approaching, he died on the 31st of October 1659, on which day his death was thus announced in the
“Diurnalls:”—
“WHITEHALL, Oct. 31, 1659.-This day it pleased God here to put a period to the life of the Lord Bradshaw, after a year's
lingering under a fierce and most tedious quartan ague, which in all probability could not have taken him away yet a while, had he
not by his indefatigable affection toward the public affairs and safety, in time of danger, wasted himself with extraordinary labours.”
President Bradshaw was pompously interred in Westminster Abbey; but after the restoration his remains
were exhumed, and exposed on the gibbet in company with those of Cromwell and Ireton.
The feeble sway of Richard Cromwell, the successor of his father, revived the prospects of the Stuarts,
which had never been wholly extinguished. An extensive league was formed amongst the Cavaliers in
different parts of the kingdom, the object of which was to make a simultaneous effort to recover the crown
for King Charles. With this object, the son of Sir Marmaduke Langdale was appointed to command in
Lancashire and the other northern counties; Major-General Massey in the midland counties; and Lord Byron
in the south ; but in none of these places did the enterprise succeed. Sir George Booth, of Dunham Massey,
a zealous supporter of the parliamentary interest in the early stages of the civil wars, and one of the deputy-
lieutenants for Lancashire, issued a declaration about the same time in Cheshire, for “a free parliament,
legally chosen” by the votes of the electors, not called by individual summons, and for a government upon a
settled foundation of “religion, liberty, and property.” To this end Sir George entered into correspondence
with Mr. Ireland, Mr. Holland, and Mr. Brookes. The earl of Derby and Sir Thomas Middleton also seconded
* For many details of the civil war as relating to Lancashire, see * Journals of the House of Commons, Jan. 1, 1652-3.
the “Civil War Tracts, etc., 1642-1651,” edited by Geo. Ormerod, 4 April 8, 1653. w 6 August 5, 1659.
Esq. (vol. 2 of the Chetham Society's series). 6 Feb. 27, 1659-60. 7 March 14, 1659-60.
2 Journals of the House of Commons, Nov. 26, 1651. 8 Harl. MSS. cod. 1929, fo. 26. x º' ---
2 H
234 Çiſt ºigtorg of £ancašijire. CHAP, XW.
his endeavours; and such of the gentry of Lancashire and Cheshire as desired it were allowed to assist in
the deliberations' for restoring the monarchy. Wearied with the unsettled state of society, upwards of a
thousand volunteers marched through Warrington, to rally round the standard of revolt, and Sir George was
enabled to make himself master of the city, though not of the castle, of Chester. Here he might have
remained in a state of security till the friends of the king, and the enemies of arbitrary rule under the name
of Commonwealth, had collected their forces; but in an evil hour he marched out of the city to meet General
Lord Lambert. A sanguinary engagement, fought on the 19th of August 1659, ensued near Northwich,
which ended in the overthrow of Sir George and his Cavaliers, who were driven from the field. One part of
the fugitive army marched to the neighbourhood of Manchester, where they were dispersed; and the other
to Liverpool, where an engagement took place in the public streets, equally unfavourable to the royal cause.
To crown these disasters, Sir George Booth himself was taken prisoner, and kept in confinement till the eve
of the Restoration.
In 1660, General George Monk, under profession of serving the Commonwealth, marched a large force
from Scotland to London, where he erected the royal standard, and effected the restoration of Charles II. to
the throne, after an exclusion of twelve years. Abundant favours were poured down upon General Monk,
who was advanced by patent, dated July 7, 1660, to the dignity of the dukedom of Albemarle, and received
from his sovereign, as one mark of his royal bounty, the ancient honor of Clitheroe, parcel of the duchy of
Lancaster.
1 Lord Mordaunt's Letter to Charles II.
CHAP. XVI. Qſìje #istory of Lancashire. 235
CHAPTER XVI.
Restoration of Monarchy and Episcopacy—Corporation and Test Acts—Act of Uniformity—Ejected Ministers in
Lancashire—Five-mile Act—Sufferings of the Nonconformists—Abolition of the Feudal System—Militia Quota
for Lancashire—Lancashire Plot—Conspiracy of the Earl of Clarendon and others—Rebellion of 1715 ; of
1745–Lancashire Gentry—Lancashire Visitations—Geographical Situation of the County—Climate—Meteor-
ology—Soil and Agriculture—Forests—Geology—Lancashire Rivers—Catalogue of the Bishops of Chester,
from the Institution of the Bishopric, 33 Henry VIII, to the Present Time–Rate imposed upon the Clergy to
provide Horses and Arms for the State in 1608–Lcclesiastical Courts, their Jurisdiction, Fees, and Revenues—
Religious Communities, Catholics, Protestant Dissenters, Methodists, etc.—A.D. 1660-1745.
-gº HE restoration of the Stuarts produced a strong sensation in the county of Lancaster, where
sº the contest between prerogative and privilege had been carried on with a degree of zeal
scarcely equalled in any other part of the kingdom. The effort to establish a commonwealth
% had gradually fallen into discredit. Presbyterian church-government lost its sway, and the
balance of opinion, in this and in the other counties of the kingdom, once more inclined to
monarchy in the government of the state, and to episcopacy in the government of the church.
To prevent the presbyterians from possessing local power or authority, and to establish more firmly the
security of the throne, the corporation act was passed, ordaining that in all cities, corporations, boroughs,
cinque-ports, and other ports in England and Wales, every mayor, alderman, and common-council-man, and
all other corporate officers, should be obliged, in addition to the ordinary oath of allegiance and supremacy,
to make a particular declaration against the solemn league and covenant, and to declare on oath that it was
not lawful, upon any pretence whatever, to take arms against the king ; and the person making this oath was
further required to aver that he abhorred that traitorous position of taking arms by the king's authority
against his person, or against those commissioned by him. That no nonconformist might exercise the
authority of a magistrate, it was also required that no person should be elected or chosen into any office or
place in such corporation who should not have, within One year before such election, taken the sacrament of
the Lord's Supper, according to the rites and ceremonies of the church of England.
In the month of May 1662, the act of uniformity passed, by which every minister, on pain of losing
his ecclesiastical preferment, was obliged to conform to the worship of the church of England, according to
the new book of common prayer, before the feast of St. Bartholomew (Aug. 24), and to sign a declaration
affirming his assent and consent to everything contained and presented by the book of common prayer. On
the arrival of St. Bartholomew's day two thousand ministers resigned their benefices, preferring poverty and
ruin with a clear conscience, to affluence and dignity with a mind tortured by the reproach of having
sacrificed what they conceived to be their duty to their Maker, to their worldly advancement. The following
form of ecclesiastical ejectment was sent by the lord bishop of Chester to the churchwardens of Garstang, for
the removal of the Rev. Isaac Ambrose; and similar notices were served upon the churchwardens in the
other parishes or chapelries where the minister had refused to conform :—
“Whereas in a late act of Parliament for uniformitie, it is enacted that every parson, vicar, curate, lecturer, or other ecclesiasticall
person, neglecting or refusing, before the Feast Day of St. Bartholomew, 1662, to declare openly before their respective congregations, his
assent and consent to all things contained in the booke of common prayer established by the said act, ipso facto be deposed, and that every
person not being in holy Orders by episcopall ordination, and every parson, vicar, curate, lecturer, or other ecclesiasticall person, failing in
his subscription to a declaration mentioned in the said act to be subscribed before the Fast Day of St. Bartholomew, 1662, shall be utterly
disabled, and ipso facto deprived, and his place be void, as if the person so failing be naturally dead. And whereas Isaac Ambrose, late
vicar of Garstang, in the county of Lancaster, hath neglected to declare and subscribe according to the tenor of the said act, I doe therefore
declare the church of Garstang to be now void, and doe strictly charge the said Isaac Ambrose, late vicar of the said church, to forbear
preaching, lecturing, or officiating, in the said church, or elsewhere in the diocese of Chester. And the Churchwardens of the said parish
of Garstang are hereby required (as by duty they are bound) to secure and preserve the said parish church of Garstang from any invasion
or intrusion of the said Isaac Ambrose, disabled and deprived as above said by the said act, and the churchwardens are also required upon
sight hereof to show this order to the said Isaac Ambrose, and cause the same to be published the next Sunday after in the Parish Church
of Garstang, before the congregation, as they will answer the contrary.—Given under my hand this 29th day of August 1662.
“ GEO. CESTRIENS.
“To the Churchwardens of Garstang, in the County Palatine of Lancaster.”
The ejected and silenced ministers in Lancashire amounted to sixty-seven ; of whom the following are
the names:—

236 Qſìje 3%istory of £ancashire. CHAP. XVI.
The Rev. Robert Towne, Alkrington; Rev. Thomas Jollie, Altham ; Rev. James Talbot, Alkholme; Rev. Thomas Crompton,
Astley Chapel, parish of Leigh ; Rev. John Harrison, Ashton-under-Lyne; Rev. James Woods, Ashton-in-Makersfield; Rev. John
Wright, M.A., Billinge; Rev. Robert Birch, Birch Chapel; Rev. Thomas Holland, Blakeley; Rev. Richard Astley, Blackrod ;
Rev. Richard Goodwin, M.A., vicar of Bolton ; Rev. Robert Park, Bolton ; Rev. Samuel Mather, M.A., Burton Wood ; Rev. Mr.
Dury, Bradshaw ; Rev. Philip Bennett, Cartmel; Rev. Mr. Camerford, Cartmel; Rev. Henry Welch, Chorley; Rev. James Woods
[jun.], Chowbent; Rev. John Leaver, Cockey chapel; Rev. Mr. Lowe, rector of Croston; Rev. James Hiet, Croston; Rev. Thomas
Whitehead, vicar of Dalton ; Rev. John Tilsley, M.A., vicar of Dean ; Rev. John Angier, Denton ; Rev. James Holm, Denton ;
Rev. Jonathan Schofield, Douglas Chapel; Rev. Edmund Jones, vicar of Eccles; Rev. Peter Atkinson Sen., Ellel Chapel;
Rev. Peter Atkinson jun., Ellel Chapel; Rev. Isaac Ambrose, vicar of Garstang; Rev. Wm. Leigh, M.A., Gorton Chapel;
Rev. Mr. Bullock, Hambleton;, Rev. James Walton, Horwich ; Rev. Mr. Sandford, Harwood; Rev. Peter Aspinall, Heaton ;
Rev. George Thomasson, Heywood Chapel; Rev. James Bradshaw, Hindley, Wigan Parish ; Rev. William Bell, M.A., vicar
of Huyton ; Rev. Henry Pendlebury, M.A., Holcombe Chapel; Rev. Peter Naylor, Haughton Chapel; Rev. Nehemiah
Ambrose, vicar of Kirkby; Doctor William Marshall, vicar of Lancaster; Rev. Thos. Drinchal, Lindale Chapel; Rev. John Fogg,
Liverpool; Rev. Timothy Smith, Longridge Chapel; Rev. Joseph Harrison, Lund Chapel; Rev. Henry Newcombe, M.A., Man-
chester; Rev. Mr. Richardson, Manchester; Rev. John Mallinson, vicar of Melling; Rev. Thomas Gregg, St. Helen's Chapel;
Rev. Mr. White, Melling; Rev. Nathaniel Baxter, M.A., vicar of St. Michael-le-Wyre ; Rev. Mr. Kippax, New Church in Rossen-
dale; Rev. John Walker, Newton Heath Chapel; Rev. Robert Constantine, Oldham ; Rev. Nathaniel Heywood, vicar of Ormskirk;
Rev. Thomas Pyke, rector of Radcliffe ; Rev. Roger Baldwin, Raynford; Rev. Samuel Newton, Rivington; Rev. Robert Bath, vicar
of Rochdale; Rev. Richard Holbrook, Salford; Rev. Joseph Thompson, Sefton; Rev. Cuthbert Harrison, Singleton; Rev. Paul
Latham, Standish ; Rev. Nicholas Smith, Tatham ; Rev. Thomas Crompton, M.A., Toxteth Park; Rev. [Zach..] Taylor, Turton; Rev.
Mr. Lamvet, Ulverstone; Rev. Henry Finch, vicar of Walton ; Rev. Robt. Eaton, Walton; Rev. Michael Briscoe, Walmsley
Chapel; Rev. Robert Yates, rector of Warrington; Rev. Charles Hotham, rector of Wigan."
At the time when the act of uniformity took effect, there were several candidates for the ministry in this
county, who had no fixed place, but who continued nonconformists: these were Mr. Thomas Waddington,
Mr. James Haddock, Mr. Cuthbert Halsall, Mr. John Eddlestone, Mr. Thomas Kay, afterwards at Hoghton
Tower, and Mr. John Crompton, afterwards minister of Cockey chapel.
That the laity of the nonconformist persuasion might not stand upon a more advantageous footing than
their clergy, Lord-Chancellor Clarendon, to whom the age in which he lived, and after ages, were mainly
indebted for these rigorous enactments, procured a bill to be passed into a law, called the conventicle act
(1664), by which every person above the age of sixteen years, being present at any meeting or conventicle for
religious purposes, when the service was performed in any other manner than according to the liturgy used
by the church of England, became liable to a penalty of £5, or three months' imprisonment, for the first
offence ; £10, or six months' imprisonment, for the second offence ; and transportation to the plantations for
the third offence, unless a fine of £100 was paid ; and persons suffering conventicles to be held in their
houses or outhouses were liable to the same punishment. This monstrous act operated with great severity
in Lancashire, and the sufferings of the people in many districts were extreme. Assemblies were often held
at midnight, to escape the rigours of the law ; and as five persons assembled together for prayer constituted a
conventicle, it frequently happened that the members of the family were obliged either to forego their duty,
or to subject themselves to the persecution of the times. To fill up the measure of intolerance, the Five-mile
Act was introduced in 1665, by which any nonconformist minister, of whatever denomination, was prohibited
from dwelling or coming within five miles of any corporate town, or other place where he had been minister,
or had preached, after the act of oblivion, unless he first took the following oath:-" I do swear that it is
not lawful, upon any pretence whatsoever, to take arms against the king, and that I do abhor the traitorous
position of taking arms by his authority, against his person or against those that are commissioned by him,
in pursuance of such commissions; and that I will not at any time endeavour any alteration of government,
either in church or state.” It was further enacted, that such as should refuse the oath should be incapable of
teaching any public school, and any two justices were empowered to commit to prison any person infringing
the enactments of this rigorous law.” The sufferings of the ejected ministers and their people were extreme ;
it is computed that no fewer than sixty thousand persons suffered on account of their religion, in different
parts of the kingdom, and that of this number five thousand perished in prison.” In Lancashire, where the
Catholics were so numerous, a preponderance was given to that party, and the dissenting interest was reduced
to the lowest point of depression. Several of the ministers, incapable of enduring the privations to which
they were exposed, or disinclined to subject themselves to the penalties of the law, conformed to the require-
ments of the church, and of that number were the following in Lancashire —Mr. Bradley Hayhurst of Leigh;
Mr. Joshua Ambrose of West Derby ; Mr. William Cole of Preston; Mr. William Colburn of Ellinburgh
[? Ellenbrook] ; Mr. William Loben of Oldham ; Mr. James Booker of Blakeley; Mr. William Aspinwall of
Formeby ; Mr. Briars of Heapey; Mr. Fisher of Kirkham ; Mr. Jakeys of Bolton ; Mr. Jessop of Winwick;
and Mr. Robert Dewhurst of Whitworth chapel.” “The great body of the dissenters, however, remained stedfast
to their principles,” says Neale, “and the church gained neither reputation nor numbers. So hot was the
1 The venerable Oliver Heywood, a name held in high estimation the reign of George IV. (1828), by an act introduced into parliament
amongst the nonconformists, was a native of Little Lever, in the by that judicious and enlightened statesman, Lord John Russell, and
parish of Bolton, in this county; but at the time of the passing of supported with great power by Mr. (now Lord) Brougham.
the act of uniformity he was settled at Coley Chapel, in the parish * Godwin’s Lives of the Puritans, in Jereh. White's Collection.
of Halifax, and was ejected from that place. * g
2. After the lapse of a century and a half, the whole of this code 4 Nonconformist Memorial, by the Rev. Edmund Calamy, D.D.
of intolerance was removed from the statute-book, in the 9th year of Palmer's edition, Vol. ii. p. 3.
CHAP. XVI. (ſiſt ºigtorg of 3Lancashire. 237
persecution, that the Lancashire classes discontinued their meetings from the first year of the new king's reign;
and those assemblies which had been held so frequently in the period between 1646 and the dissolution of
the commonwealth (1660), were not resumed till 1693, when they were held under the designation of Meetings
of Ministers of the United Brethren within the county of Lancaster;" the Rev. Henry Newcome filling the
office of moderator, and Charles Sager that of scribe, at the first of the resumed meetings for the parishes of
Manchester, Prestwich, Flixton, Eccles, and Ashton-under-Lyne. |
On the restoration of Charles II. the intention was formed to institute a new order of knighthood, as a
reward to the faithful adherents of the house of Stuart during the period of their adversity; and the following
persons, in the county of Lancaster, were judged fit to be made “Knights of the Royal Oak,” each of whom
was in possession of an estate of the estimated annual value affixed to his name:—
Thomas Holt, Esq. g ſº ſº . £1000 Thomas Preston, Esq. . º ſº . £2000
Thomas Greenhalgh, Esq. . & tº 1000 Farington of Worden, Esq. . e I000
Colonel — Kirby . e tº * & 1000 — Fleetwood of Penwortham, Esq. . I000
Robert Holte, Esq. tº º g gº I000 John Girlington, Esq. . Us e g I000
Edmund Asheton, Esq. . te e & 1000 William Stanley, Esq. . ſº g e I000
Christopher Banester, Esq. . º & 1000 Edward Tildesley, Esq. . & º gº I000
Francis Anderton, Esq. . e e º I000 Thomas Stanley, Esq. . e g g 1000
Col. James Anderton . e g e 1500 Richard Boteler, Esq. . & & e I000
Roger Nowell, Esq. e * & e I 000 John Ingleton, Esq., Sen. tº tº I 000
Henry Norris, Esq. & e g tº I 200 -— Walmesley of Dunkenhalgh, Esq. . 2000
This order was intended by Charles as a reward to several of his followers, and the knights were to
wear a silver medal, with a device of the king in the Oak, pendent to a ribbon about their necks; but, on
reflection, it was thought proper to abandon the intention, from the apprehension that such an order of
knighthood might create heats and animosities, and open those wounds afresh which it was thought prudent
should be healed.”
The time had now arrived when the feudal system, which had existed for upwards of six hundred years,”
with various modifications, was to be finally abolished, and on the 12th of Charles II. (1660) the tenures of
knights' service, chivalry, escuage, petit Serjeanty, villeinage, etc., were taken away, and the tenures of fee-
simple, fee-tail, and copyhold, Substituted in their place. In the same reign the militia-laws were so far
altered as to place that great constitutional citizen-military body more immediately under the power and
control of the crown than they had been in times past “ (1661). In 1761 the aggregate number of the
militia was swelled to thirty thousand eight hundred and forty,’ of which Lancashire was required to furnish
eight hundred; and in 1802, the total number of the militia was increased to forty thousand nine hundred
and sixty-three," the quota for Lancashire being then fixed, as it now stands, at two thousand four hundred
and thirty-nine. The land-tax, originally a monthly assessment, imposed in the time of the Commonwealth,
was occasionally levied in the reign of Charles II. ; in 1692, a new valuation of estates was made throughout
the kingdom, when it was fixed that Lancashire should be charged with five in 518 parts. In the year 1798
this annual tax was made perpetual, subject to redemption and purchase by the owners of estates.
The progress of William III. on his way to Ireland, previous to the memorable battle of the Boyne, lay
through the southern part of Lancashire, and on the 14th of June 1690, his majesty embarked at Liverpool.
The expulsion of the Stuarts by the house of Orange produced violent discontent amongst the subjects of the
new king of the Roman Catholic persuasion, and in no part of the kingdom was that feeling more powerful
than in Lancashire. The doctrine of “killing no murder,” inculcated so freely by the royalists during the
latter part of the protectorate of Oliver Cromwell, was now revived, and a conspiracy was formed, called
“THE LANCASHIRE PLOT,” for removing King William from the throne by the hand of the assassin. The
history of this event is involved in considerable obscurity, and even the existence of the plot has been called
in question. The Irish party in favour of James II., having received encouragement from the French
ministry, engaged a man of the name of Dumont to assassinate the reigning monarch of England; and a
party in Lancashire, more distinguished for their daring than for their strength, Swelled the number of the
conspirators. As early as the 18th of October 1689, a communication was made to the secretary of state for
the home department, by the judges of the assizes, held by adjournment, in Manchester, to the effect that
many of the branches of the Roman Catholic families in this county had absconded, and that in their absence
several boxes, with Scarlet cloaks, pistols, and Swords, intended for their use, had been received in
Lancashire. *.
According to Bishop Burnet, a conspiracy was formed contemporaneously with this “Lancashire plot" by
the earl of Clarendon, the bishop of Ely, Lord Preston, Mr. Graham, and William Penn, the celebrated
Quaker, to restore the deposed king; and Lord Preston, Mr. Ashton, and Mr. Elliot, were despatched to
1 MS. entitled the First Classis of the County Palatine of Lan- total number of the knights meant to have been created in all
Caster. - England was 687. *
. x * See chap. ii. * 13 Chas. II. cap. 6.
2 Banks’s Honores Anglicani, from which it appears that the * 1 Geo. III. - ° 43 Geo. III. cap. 90.
238 Ǻr 3%istorm of £antagüirº. CHAP. XVI.
France to communicate to him the design, and to obtain his co-operation. The government having come to
the knowledge of this mission, the parties engaged in it were arrested on ship-board, and amongst their papers
were found “a declaration to be published when the French should have succeeded at Sea,” and “the result
of a conference between certain lords and gentlemen for the restoration of King James.” In January 1691
Lord Preston and Mr. Ashton were brought to trial at the Old Bailey on a charge of high treason, and, being
both convicted, were sentenced to be executed as traitors. Mr. Ashton, who displayed an uncompromising
firmness, underwent the penalty of the law ; but Lord Preston contrived to make his peace with the court,
and was pardoned. Against Mr. Elliot no legal proof could be adduced; Lord Clarendon, who was after-
wards seized, was merely confined to his own house in the country; and the bishop of Ely, Mr. James
Graham, and William Penn absconded. In the meantime a correspondence had been kept up between the
deposed monarch and some of the Roman Catholics in Lancashire and Cheshire, which was conducted through
the medium of one Bromfield, a Quaker, residing at Redland, near Chester, in the house of a person of the
name of Wilson, who was also engaged in the conspiracy. These parties having absconded, the former to
Ireland, and the latter into Lancashire, the management of the intrigue was committed to three adventurers
of the names of Lunt, Gordon, and Threlfall, who had come over from Ireland with a commission from King
James—Lunt being appointed to Staffordshire, Cheshire, and Lancashire; Threlfall to Yorkshire; and
Gordon to Scotland. Subsequently Lunt was committed to the castle of Lancaster on a charge of high
treason, founded principally upon the evidence of the captain of the ship who brought him over from Ireland,
and who found some of the commissions of King James amongst the papers which he had inadvertently left
in the vessel. A person of the name of Dodsworth, a Lancashire man, was also a witness against Lunt,
Owing to a deficiency in the evidence, Lunt was acquitted at Lancaster, and the joy and exultation of the
Jacobites were extreme. Uninstructed by the danger he had escaped, he became a messenger to the deposed
monarch, who was then fitting out an expedition at the Hague, and on his return to England he was sent
into Lancashire plentifully supplied with arms. Having become alarmed at his own situation, he communi-
cated all the particulars of the conspiracy to assassinate the king to his majesty's ministers; and some time
after this treachery he was sent down into the country with Captain Baker to secure the conspirators. A
strict search was immediately instituted at the residence of Captain Standish of Standish Hall, where the
meetings had been principally held, and in many of the houses of the suspected persons. Here there was
found a quantity of firearms and ammunition, but whether to such an amount as to indicate an intention to
levy war against the king's government does not appear. According to Tindall there was found in Mr.
Standish's closet the draft of a remonstrance or declaration to be printed and published on the landing of
King James. When the trials came on at Manchester, to which place the assizes had been adjourned, the
witnesses deposed that the persons whom they accused had received commissions from King James II. to
levy troops—that they had enlisted soldiers and formed them into bodies with a design to assist the French,
who were making preparations to land in this country—and that the Roman Catholics in Lancashire and
Cheshire contributed towards the subsistence of the enemy, in addition to having accumulated ammunition
in their own houses. In proof of these charges a witness of the name of Taffe, an Irish renegade priest, was
called, who had been engaged in the conspiracy, and had turned informer ; but, instead of giving the evidence
that was expected from him, he declared that the pretended “Lancashire Plot " was a villanous contrivance,
concerted between Lunt and himself, to ruin certain gentlemen in this county; and the prosecution so entirely
failed, that the witnesses who were to support the allegations were committed to Newgate upon a charge of
perjury, and of having conspired against the lives and estates of the Lancashire gentlemen. The subject of
the existence or non-existence of the conspiracy was afterwards brought under the consideration of parliament,
before whom both Taffe and Lunt, with a great number of other witnesses, were examined; and after an
investigation, continued for ten weeks, the house resolved, “That it does appear to this house that there were
sufficient grounds for the prosecution and trials of the gentlemen at Manchester. That, upon the informations
and examinations before this house, it does appear that there was a dangerous plot carried on against the king
and his government.” The majority in favour of this decision was, however, very small, the numbers being—
for the resolution 133, against it 97. A similar decision was come to by the House of Lords, though the
earls of Rochester and Nottingham contended strenuously that the government had not sufficient cause to
prosecute the Lancashire and Cheshire gentlemen, and entered their protest against the decision of the house.
In the meantime a proclamation was issued by the government, but without success, to apprehend Mr.
Standish of Standish, who had absconded. Notwithstanding these parliamentary decisions, Lunt, Womball,
and Wilson, three of the witnesses against the accused parties, were tried at Lancaster assizes for perjury
against the Lancashire and Cheshire gentlemen, and found guilty of the charge preferred against them ; and
they were afterwards indicted for a conspiracy against the lives and estates of those gentlemen; but the
accusers having refused to furnish the king's attorney and solicitor-general with witnesses to prove the con-
spiracy, the prosecution dropped, and Lunt, Womball, and Wilson were discharged. The spirit of party ran so
1 Journals of the House of Commons, Feb. 6, 1694-5.
CHAP. XVI. (The #istory of £attašijire. 239
high, that Dodsworth, one of the government witnesses, was murdered after the discovery he had made of
the conspiracy ; and Redman, another government witness, shared the same fate two days afterwards.'
The reign of Queen Anne, though sufficiently agitated by foreign wars, was not disturbed by domestic
commotions. Her successor, George I., was less fortunate; in the first year of that monarch's reign a rebellion
broke out in the north, and the county of Lancaster once more became involved in the horrors of civil war.
The restoration of the unfortunate house of Stuart, and the re-establishment of the Catholic religion, were the
ostensible causes of the approaching contest. To effect these objects, a 'small army was raised in Scotland,
and the earl of Derwentwater, with a number of other peers and Scottish lairds, engaged in the desperate
enterprise. The earl of Mar was at the head of the insurgent army in Scotland, but the division which
penetrated into England was led by the earls of Derwentwater, Wintown, Nithsdale, and Carnwath ; and Mr.
Forster, a gentleman of Northumberland, received from the earl of Mar the command of this forlorn hope,
with the commission of general. The invaders took the route of Jedburgh, but five or six hundred of the
Highland foot-soldiers refused to cross the frontier, and returned to the Highlands. The strong admonition
conveyed by this defection in the rebel army was disregarded by its devoted leaders, and on the 31st of
October 1715 they marched to Langtown in Cumberland, to the music of the bagpipes, at the head of a few
hundred men.” On the 2d of November they advanced to Penrith, on the 3d to Appleby, on the 5th to
Kendal, on the 6th to Kirby Lonsdale, and on the 7th to Lancaster. At each of these places the Chevalier
de St. George, son of James II., was proclaimed king by the style and title of James III. At Lancaster, where
the rebel army remained two days, they caused the Pretender to be prayed for as king of England, and here
they seized six pieces of cannon on board one of the ships in the bay. On Wednesday the 9th of November
the horse arrived at Preston, and on the 10th they were joined by the infantry, who had halted at Garstang
the preceding day. On their arrival at Preston their force had increased to about 1600 men; they all wore
cockades, the Scotch blue and white, and the English red and white. Grown confident by their uninterrupted
advance, they prepared to march for Manchester and Warrington; but the country had begun to rise in their
front, and a congregation of Protestant dissenters, headed by their minister the Rev. James Woods,” had
actually marched from Chowbent to Walton-le-dale, where they were drawn up in battle-array to dispute the
passage of the Ribble." These heroes were armed with the implements of their husbandry, and, reversing the
ancient prediction, they made swords of their plough-shares and spears of their pruning-hooks. At this juncture,
however, news arrived that the king's forces were approaching, and the first care of the rebels was to barricade
the streets of Preston. About mid-day on Saturday (Nov. 12), General Wills arrived, and attacked the town
with great vigour, but in the first instance with little success. On Sunday, General Carpenter, at the head of
three regiments of dragoons, appeared before the town, and General Forster, finding himself completely
invested, and considering his situation to be desperate, sent Colonel Oxborough with a trumpeter to sue for a
capitulation. Owing to some disagreement between the Scotch and the English forces as to the surrender,
the negotiation was not concluded that night, but in the meantime Lord Derwentwater and Mr. Mackintosh
were delivered up as hostages, and on Monday morning (Nov. 14), the whole of the rebel army made an
unconditional Surrender.
The rebellion was now at an end, but its penalty remained to be paid. No fewer than seven lords and
1500 men, including officers, fell into the hands of the king's forces; and the gaols of Lancaster, Preston,
Manchester, Liverpool, and Chester were filled with state prisoners. Courts-martial sat upon a number of the
leaders; and James Radcliffe earl of Derwentwater, William earl of Nithsdale, Robert earl of Carnwath,
George earl of Wintown, William Lord Widdrington, William Wiscount Kenmure, and William Lord Nairn,
were all impeached before the House of Lords, and found guilty of high treason. Of these noblemen, the
earl of DerWentwater and Lord Kenmure were beheaded upon Tower Hill on the 24th of February 1716;
Earl Nithsdale and Earl Wintown escaped the blow, having found means to get out of the Tower; and Lord
Widdrington, Lord Nairn, and the earl of Carnwath, were reprieved, and afterwards pardoned. Forty-nine
other prisoners were convicted, and forty-seven of them paid the price of their treason by the forfeit of their
lives; but General Forster and Mr. Mackintosh had sufficient address to escape out of Newgate and make
their way to the continent. Captain Charles Murray, son of the duke of Athole, was condemned by a court-
martial, but he was afterwards reprieved. Of the prisoners condemned in Lancashire, sixteen were hanged at
Preston, five at Wigan, five at Manchester, four at Garstang, four at Liverpool, and nine at Lancaster; and
Colonel Oxborough, Mr. Gascoigne, the Rev. Mr. Paul, and John Hall, Esq. were hanged at Tyburn.”
On the day of the surrender of the insurgent forces at Preston, a great battle was fought at Dunblane,
between the duke of Argyle and the earl of Mar, in which, as in most engagements of doubtful issue, both
armies claimed the victory; and on the 22d of December 1715, the Chevalier de St. George, under an expec-
tation that all the subjects of the realm were ready to take up arms in his favour, landed from the continent
* For details of this “Lancashire Plot” see “Jacobite Trials in * Mr. Woods had been ejected from Ashton in Makerfield.
Manchester in 1694,” edited by Wm. Beamont, Esq., and “The 4 Toulmin’s Hist. of the Dissenters.
Trials at Manchester in 1694,” edited by the Right Rev. Alex. Goss, * For many interesting particulars as to this rebellion, see “Lan-
D.D.—being vols. 28 and 61 of the Chetham Society's series.—H. cashire Memorials of the Rebellion of 1715,” edited by the late Dr.
* Proceedings before the House of Lords. Hibbert-Ware (vol. 5 of the Chetham Society's series).
240 Ǻr 3%istory of £attrašijire. CHAP, XVI.
in Scotland. This hope was woefully disappointed; for after spending a month in issuing proclamations, by
one of which it was announced that his coronation would take place on the 23d of January, he found it expedient
to quit the kingdom. The most convenient point for embarkation was Montrose, and from this port he sailed
in a small French vessel, accompanied by the earl of Mar, and sixteen other persons of distinction of the
Jacobite party. The followers of the Stuarts, being thus left without leaders, dispersed on the approach of
the duke of Argyle, and the claims of that house were doomed to remain in abeyance for another generation.
The oaths of Supremacy and allegiance to the reigning family were now strongly urged, both upon the
clergy and the laity of this kingdom, and an act of parliament was passed, wherein, amongst other matters, it
was directed that all Roman Catholics, nonjurors, and others, who refused to take these oaths, should
transmit to commissioners, appointed for the purpose, a register of their estates, setting forth in what parish
and township the lands were situated, by whom they were occupied, the annual value at which they were
estimated, and the names, titles, additions, and places of abode of their owners. Under the operation of this
act, returns were made to the commissioners of estates in the various counties of England to the yearly
amount of £358,194 : 5:3}, of which sum the estates in Lancashire yielded £13,158: 10s. in the following
proportions:—73 estates of Catholics, nonjurors, etc., in Amounderness Hundred, £2660: 1: 3; 29 estates
in Blackburn, £972; 10: 2; 54 estates in Leyland Hundred, £1463: 13:1; ; 25 estates in Lonsdale,
£1432: 8s. ; 17 estates in Salford, £721 : 1 : 3; 122 estates in West Derby, £5901 : 16:24.
By the act just quoted this mass of landed property was placed in jeopardy; but it does not appear
that the owners were dispossessed of their estates, or that any use was ever made of the registers, except that
they were published in the year 1745, “with a view to assist the magistrates and other officers entrusted with
the execution of the orders of government, for suppressing the growth and unhappy effects of the insurrection
in the north.” At this period a contest, conducted with great vigour and asperity, prevailed both in the
county of Lancaster and in several of the other counties of England, involving the doctrine of the divine right of
hings, in which the nonjurors insisted that no pretence whatever could justify an insurrection against the
Sovereign ; that the Stuarts, being kings of England de jure, could not be legally displaced, and consequently
that no other king but the descendants of James II. could claim from them an oath of allegiance. On the
other hand, it was contended that the people had a right to cashier a sovereign, when that sovereign aimed.
at the subversion of the religion and constitution of the realm ; and that the house of Hanover being in
possession of the throne de facto, and by the general though not the universal will of the nation, allegiance
was justly due to that house, and not to the family that had been expelled. The contest became too warm
to be settled in the closet, and in the reign of George II. another appeal was made to arms. Prince Charles
Edward, the young Chevalier, as he was called by the partisans of the Stuarts, or the young Pretender (son
of the Pretender), as he was more generally designated, animated with the hopes of a throne, and misled by
the Sanguine representations of his friends, quitted his exile in France, and on the 2d of August 1745 landed
in the Hebrides. Having assembled about 1200 men in the neighbourhood of Fort-William, hostilities
immediately commenced. From thence he proceeded to Edinburgh, and, owing to the energy and activity of
his friends and the apathy of his enemies, he was enabled to take possession of that ancient capital. Aware
that the blow, to be successful, must be struck in England, and entertaining confident expectations of being
joined by numbers wherever the standard of the Stuarts was planted, he resolved to advance into the heart
of the country, and to hazard all upon the issue. On the 6th day of November, the young prince, at the
head of his small army, crossed the western border, and invested Carlisle, which in less than three days
Surrendered. Here he found a considerable number of arms and ammunition, and, to encourage his followers,
his father was proclaimed king of Great Britain, and himself regent, by the magistracy of that city. The
ministers of George II. now began to bestir themselves, and an army was assembled in Staffordshire, under
Sir John Ligonier, to arrest the career of the invaders. Unintimidated by these hostile preparations, and
confident in his own resources, the young adventurer advanced by the route of Penrith into Lancashire,
marching on foot in a Highland garb at the head of his forces. But the expectation of being joined by the
inhabitants of the country through which he passed was not realised. His enterprise was considered
desperate, and the people in general proved well affected to the house of Hanover. Charles Edward, at the
head of the vanguard of his army, reached Lancaster on the 24th of November, wearing a light plaid belt,
with a blue sash, and mounting a blue bonnet, with a white rose, the badge of the house of York, in front.
The numbers of his army have been variously represented, but according to the testimony of MacDonald,
himself one of the rebels, it did not exceed 5600 men when marching through Lancashire. The troops were
principally of the Highland clans, who, led by their chiefs, marched to the music of the Highland pipes and
drum.” On their banners were inscribed the words—“Liberty and Property—Church and King.” The arms
of the majority were the broadsword, the dirk, and the shield, and a small number were musketeers. The
prince was their commander-in-chief, and the dukes of Perth and Athol, and marquises of Montrose and
Dundee, with twelve other Scotch and English noblemen, and thirteen knights, mostly from the Highlands,
who had received their titles from their intrepid leader, swelled the number, and conferred dignity on the
1 State Trials, ix. 546. * “The King shall enjoy his own again” was one of their favourite tunes.
CHAP. XVI. (ſiſt £igforu of 3Lancashire, 241
desperate enterprise. Generally the most rigid discipline prevailed, but in some cases the invaders seized the
horses of the farmers, and used them partly for mounting their cavalry, and partly for conveying their
baggage. On the 27th November they arrived at Preston, and by a forced march reached Manchester on the
following day, where they ordered quarters for 10,000 troops. Here they were joined by about 200 English-
men, who were formed into a regiment commanded by Colonel Townley, under the designation of the
“Manchester Regiment.” In the civil wars of his great-grandfather Charles I., Manchester had, as we have
seen, been the head-quarters for many years of the parliamentary party in Lancashire ; but from some cause
which it might be difficult to explain, the mass of the people had changed from Roundheads to Jacobites;
and the arrival of Prince Charles was celebrated by illuminations and other public demonstrations of joy.
Having refreshed his army, and made a small addition to his numbers, the intention of the prince was to
prosecute his march by way of Chester into Wales; but on entering upon his route, it was discovered that
the bridges over the Mersey had been broken down, and the prince and his followers were obliged to ford
the river at Stockport to the middle in water. From hence they advanced to Derby, where they received
intelligence that General Wade's army was in Yorkshire, and that the duke of Cumberland, brother of King
George, was at the head of a considerable force in the neighbourhood of Lichfield. The danger of being
hemmed in between two armies, each of them more numerous than his own, awakened the apprehension of
the young prince, who immediately summoned a council of war. Lord Nairn and some of the most sanguine
of the rebels insisted upon the propriety of marching directly to London, but the majority determined to retreat
to Scotland with all possible expedition, and Prince Charles acquiesced in this determination. Derby was
accordingly abandoned on the 6th of December, and on the 9th the vanguard arrived at Manchester ; on the
12th they entered Preston by the way of Wigan; and continuing their route by Lancaster, reached the Scotch
frontier on the 20th, having performed this memorable retreat of nearly two hundred miles at midwinter in
fourteen days, and without any material loss of either men, baggage, or cannon.
The speedy arrival of the duke of Cumberland in Lancashire contributed essentially to the re-establish-
ment of the public peace and confidence; and a number of stragglers from the fugitive army, who had
loitered behind for the purpose of plunder, were taken prisoners by General Oglethorp's dragoons on the
16th instant, and committed to Lancaster Castle. During the winter great exertions were made to strengthen
the hostile armies. The duke of Cumberland repaired to the north at the head of a numerous and well-
appointed force, and the time was approaching when the crown of Great Britain was to be contended for
upon the plains of Scotland. Early in the month of April the belligerents drew towards Inverness-shire, and
on the 16th of that month they met on the heath of Culloden. Here an engagement took place, which,
prostrating in the dust the hopes of the house of Stuart, will be for ever memorable in the history of these
islands. After the destruction of his army, the Prince Pretender wandered as a fugitive in the Highlands for
several months, with a reward of £30,000 fixed upon his head, enduring the extremity of personal privation;
but at length he escaped into France, and the tranquillity of the British dominions was restored. A
considerable number of his English partisans, principally officers in the “Manchester Regiment,” were con-
veyed to London and tried for high treason. At the head of these unfortunate men stood Francis Townley,
esq. of Carlisle, nephew of Mr. Townley of Townley Hall in Lancashire, who was himself tried for being
concerned in the rebellion of 1715, but acquitted. The trials took place on the 15th, 16th, and 17th of
July 1746, before a special commission assembled at the court-house of St. Margaret's Hill, Southwark; and
the facts of the rebellion and the participation of the prisoners being fully established, they were pronounced
guilty and adjudged—“To be severally hanged by the neck, not till they were dead, but cut down alive,
then their bowels to be taken out and burnt before their faces, their heads to be severed from their bodies,
and their bodies severally divided into four quarters, and these to be at the king's disposal.” The number of
persons tried was seventeen, and of that number Francis Townley, colonel of the Manchester Regiment;
Thomas Theodorus Deacon, James Dawson, John Barwick, George Fletcher, and Andrew Blood, captains in
the Manchester Regiment; Thomas Chadwick, lieutenant ; Thomas Syddall, adjutant in the same regiment;
and David Morgan, a barrister-at-law, and a volunteer in the Pretender's army, were executed on Kennington
Common, on the 30th of July, with all the horrid accompaniments prescribed by the law. As they mounted
the scaffold each of the prisoners made a sort of confession of faith, and seven out of the nine professed
themselves to be of the reformed religion," and in general they resigned themselves to their fate with a
degree of heroic constancy worthy of a better cause. The heads of Colonel Townley and Captain George
Fletcher were placed upon Temple Bar; but the heads of all the other prisoners were preserved in spirits, and
sent into the country, to be placed in public situations in Manchester or in Carlisle. The following prisoners,
chiefly Lancashire men and officers or volunteers in the Manchester regiment, were also convicted, but they
were reprieved and afterwards pardoned:—Alexander Abernethy, James Gadd, Thomas Furnivall, Christopher
Taylor, William Brettargh, John Sanderson, Charles Deacon, and James Wilding. Bills of indictment for
high treason arising out of this rebellion were also found by the county of Surrey against the earls of
Rilmarnock and Cromartie, and against Arthur, Lord Balmerino, and these three peers were impeached
1 Colonel Townley and Captain Blood were the only Roman Catholics.
2 I
242 QTijt #istory ºf 3Lancashire,
CHAP. XVI.
before the House of Lords on the 28th of July 1746. Conviction speedily followed accusation, they were
all three pronounced guilty, and the earl of Kilmarnock and Lord Balmerino suffered on the block. The
titular earl of Derwentwater, having been taken in a ship bound to Scotland, suffered the same fate; and
Lord Lovat, though turned of fourscore years of age, was consigned to the block for traitorously conspiring to
raise and levy war against the king. In the country, nine persons concerned in this rebellion were executed
at Carlisle, six at Brompton near Penrith, and eleven at York. About fifty were executed as deserters in
different parts of Scotland; and eighty-one suffered as traitors in that country.
In both these rebellions the county of Lancaster displayed a firm attachment to the reigning family—
the Catholics as well as the Protestants. The instances of defection were very rare; and when they occurred,
they were rather imputable to some peculiarity in the situation of the delinquents, than to any party or
religious feelings. The romantic attempt of the young Chevalier, as displayed in the rebellion of 1745, had
in it something imposing to ardent and enthusiastic minds; and those who embraced his cause on the south
of the Tweed were principally young men of warm temperament, whose imaginations were dazzled by the
chivalrous character of the enterprise. -
Having thus brought down the general history of the county to the middle of the eighteenth century,
the more recent historical events will be treated in the hundred and parish histories; but it will be proper
here to take a general survey of the gentry of the county, and, preliminary thereto, to give a catalogue of
the heralds' visitations in chronological order, as they are exhibited in the British Museum —
IAN CASHIRE WISITATIONS.
Date of Herald's
Visitation. AWame of Herald.
1533. Thomas Benolté, Clarencieux, by his deputy, William Fellows, Lancaster Herald.—Harl. MS. 2076, fol. 11. [This is
supposed to be the Original. It also relates to some part of Cheshire.]] -
William Flower, Norroy.—Harl. MS. 2086. [This MS. is neatly written in the hand of the celebrated Glover,
Somerset º who accompanied his father-in-law, Flower, in the Visitation. It has some continuations by
other hands.
Another copy of the same Visitation, written narratively.—Harl. MS. 891,” fol. 59.
Another copy of the same Visitation, in tables.—Harl. MS. 1468,” fol. 12.
Another copy of the same Visitation, entered alphabetically, with some continuations.—Harl. MS. 1549.
Another copy of the same Visitation, written and augmented in 1598 by William Smith, Rouge Dragon ; “a work”
stated in the Harl. Catalogue to be “carefully executed, but unfinished.” The arms are all neatly coloured.—
Harl. MS. 6159. [There is also a copy of Flower's Visitation in the Manchester Coll. Lib.]
1613. “Many, if not most of the loose papers” of the Visitation, by Richard St. George, Norroy.-Harl. MS. 1437.
Descents registered at the Visitation of 1613. –Harl. MS. 1549, fol. 108.
Pedigrees, supposed to be copied from the Visitation of 1567, by Thomas Knight, Chester Herald.
Arms of Families of Lancashire and Cheshire blazoned.—Harl M.S. 893.
Pedigrees apparently copied from the Visitation of 1567.-Harl. MS. 1158. -
“Lancashire Pedigrees, supposed to be copied from the Visitation of 1567, with continuations by the two last Randle Holmes,
so low as the year 1704.”—Harl. MS. 1987.
Funeral Certificates of the Counties of Lancaster, Cheshire, Shropshire, and North Wales, begun 1st March 1600.--Lansdowne
MS. 879.
Funeral Certificates of the counties of Lancaster, Chester, and North Wales, begun 28th May 1606.-Lansdowne MS. 2041.
Randle Holme's Collections for Lancashire, chiefly consisting of extracts from deeds.--Lansdowne MS. 2042.
Ibid.—Lansdowne MS. 2112. -
Collections, Historical, Heraldical, and Juridical, principally relating to Lancashire.—Lansdowne MS. 7386.
There is here one important omission, arising out of the last and most authentic visitation of the county
not having yet found its way into the British Museum ; this is the visitation of Lancashire made by Sir
William Dugdale, knight, himself a descendant of a Lancashire family long settled at Clitheroe, and some
time Garter principal king-of-arms. Sir William's visitation is deposited in the Heralds' Office, Doctors'
Commons, London; and the following extracts from the diary of the venerable antiquary fixes the dates
with precision when the entries were made –
1567.
[Visitation of Lancashire.]
September 1664.—8. To Manchester. 12. To Blackburn. 14. To Garstang. 15. To Lancaster.
Rufford, Mr. Molineux house. 22. To Ormeskirke. 24. To Knowsley, the Earle of Derby's.
Sr Peter Leicester's. 28. To Stone. 29. Home to Blythe Hall.
17. To Preston. 21. To
26. To Tabley in Chesh.
1 Wide a long note on this MS. in Bibliotheca. Heraldica, p. 582.
It appears from this visitation that only one Cheshire family de-
clined to make an entry, while many of the Lancashire families
refused even to be spoken with by the herald ; and others, who
condescended to grant an audience, dismissed the heraldic “visitant
with the utmost rudeness.” Two examples of the conduct of
knightly families in the latter county are given, with his usual sim-
plicity, by Mr. Fellows:– “Sir Richard Hoghton, Kt., hath putt
away his ladye and wief, and kepeth a concobyne in his howse, by
whom he hath divers children, and by the Lady he hath Ley Hall,
w’oh armes he bereth quartred with his in the first quarter. He
says that Mr. Garter licensed him so to doe, and he gave Mr. Garter
an angell noble, but he gave me nothing, nor made me good cheer,
but made me proud wordes.”—Harl. MSS. 2076, f. 12, b. “Sir
John Townley, kt., had to his first wief one who was daughter to
Sir Charles Apillysdon, etc. I wot not what her name is, nor I
made no greate inquisition, for he would have no note taken of him,
saying, there was no more gentlemen in Lancashire but my lords of
Derby and Monteagle. I sought hym all the day Tyding in the
wyld country, and his reward was ijs. wºeh the guyde hadd the most
pºte, as I had as evill a jorney as ever I hadd.”
* This M.S. contains also the Visitation of Suffolk, and other
pedigrees.
3 This MS. likewise contains the Visitation of Middlesex in 1664.
4 Hamper's Life of Sir William Dugdale, pp. 117, 118. Sir
William was knighted by Charles II. May 25, 1677.
CHAP. XVI. The #istory of Hamrashire.
243
[Visitation of Lancashire, etc.]
March 1665.-9. From Blythe Hall to Stone. 10. Manchester. 11. To sit at Manchester. 13. To ride to Preston. 14. To
* + k
sit at Preston. 15. Lancaster. 16. To sit at Lancaster.
April 1665,-4. To Rydale (neere Ambleside), Mr. Fleming's house.
5. Lancaster. 6. Preston. 7. Ormskirk. 8. To sit at
Ormskirk. That night to my Ld Molineux. - -
Persons assuming to be gentlemen, but who were not entitled to the honour of bearing arms, were
subject to the following indignities on their names being struck from the former visitations:–“Their names
being written on a sheet of paper,” says William Flower, Norroy king-of-arms, “with fayre greate letters,
was carryed by the Bayliff of the Hundred, and one of the Herauldes men to the Chiefe Towne of that
hundred, where, in the cheife place thereof, the herauldes man Redd the names (after crye made by the Baylife
and the people gathered).And then pronounced openly by the said Bayley Every man's name severally contained
in the said bill: that done, the Bayley sett the said Bill of Names on a poste fast with wax where it may
stand drye, so it be as aforesaid in the Cheifest place of the said Towne.”
Amongst the MS. collections in the Manchester College Library are the following:—
No. 6694.—A copy of Flower's Visitation, bearing the date of 1567, and the following years, transcribed from a book of
parchment in the hands of Robert Cooke, Clarencieux king-of-armes, in 1583.
No. 6719.-Another copy of the Visitation of 1567, transcribed, etc., by Wm. Smith, Rouge Dragon.
A great variety of Pedigrees and genealogies of Lancashire families, etc., many of the armorial bearings curiously emblazoned,
others sketched with the pen, interspersed with numerous historical memoranda. By Thomas Barret.” -
Of the principal nobility and gentry of the county we shall have to treat in the respective hundreds ; but
the following list, extracted from a MS. in the author's possession, collated with Blore's List, published in
1673, forms a useful and compendious catalogue for more general reference —
FAMILIAE LANCASTRIENSES :
Or, a List of the Wobility and Gentry in the County Palatine of Lancaster, from the time of Henry VII. to the Accession of William
III., from Original Records and the MSS. of Sir John Byron, Sir George Booth, Mr. John Hopkinson, and others, with the
Orthography preserved both of Persons and Places.
Abraham of Abraham
Adlington of Adlington
Allen of Rosshall
Allen of Broughton
Ambrose of Lowick
Ambrose of Ambrose Hall
Anderton of Lostock
Balderstone of Balderstone
Bamford of Bamford
Bamford of Maudsley
Banister of Altham
Banister of Preston
Banister of Bank Hall
Banister of Park Hill,
Anderton of Birchley Banister of Walton Bradshaw of Bradshaw
Anderton of Anderton Bankes of Winstanley Bradshaw of Aspull and Penning-
Anderton of Euxton, Clayton, etc. Barcroft of Barcroft ton Chatterton of Chatterton
Andrews of Little Lever Bardsey of Bardsey |Bradshaw of Darcy Lever Chatterton of Nuthurst
Appleton of Appleton Barlow of Barlow Bradshaw of Hope and Pendleton |Cheetham of Cheetham
Ashaw of Hethe Charnock Barnes of Bold Bradshaw of Presall and Skale Cheetham of Turton Tower
Ashfield of Ashfield Barton of Barton Bratterhough of Bratterhough Chetham of Nuthurst
Ashurst of Ashurst Barton of Smithells Breares of Walton Chetham of Smedley
Aspden of Aspden Barton of Barton Row Bretarghe of Bretarghe Childway of Sales]bury
Ashton of Ashton-under-Lyne Barton of Middleton Bridgeman of Leaver Chisnall of Chisnall
Ashton of Middleton Beaconshaw of Beaconshaw Brockhole of Brockhole Chorley of Chorley
Ashton of Chatterton Beck of Manchester Brockhole of Claughton Chorley of Preston
Ashton of Shepley Beconsall of Beconsall Brook of Norton Chorley of Rainhill
Ashton of Penketh Belfield of Clegg Brotherton of Hay or Hey Clayton of Crooke
Ashton of Lever Bellingham of Bellingham Broughton of Broughton Clayton of Fullwood
Ashton of Downham Billing of Billing - Browne of Ribbleton Clayton of Little Harwood
Ashton of Kuerden Bindloss of Borwick Browne of Brinesop Clayton of Lentworth
Ashton of Crofton Birch of Birch Hall Buckley of Buckley Clayton of Clayton
Ashton of Littlewood Birch of Ordshall Bushell of Kuerden Clifton of Westby
Ashton of Preston Birket of Birket Butler of Rawcliff
Botteswell of Huncote
Brabine of Docker
Brache of Brache
Braddill of Portfield
Bradley of Brining
Bradley of Bethone
Bradshaigh of Haigh
Case of Huyton
Catherall of Catherall
Catherall of Crook
Catherall of Mitton
Chaddocke of Chaddocke
Chadwick of Chadwick
Chadwick of Heely
Charnock of Holcote
Charnock of Charnock
Ashton of Whalley
Ashton of Ribblebank
Ashton of Bromforlong
Ashton of Ashton
Astley of Stakes
Atherton of Atherton
Atherton of Bickerstaff
Atherton of Grantley
Atherton of Norbie
Aughton of Aughton Meales
Aynesworth of Aynesworth
Aynesworth of Plessington
Birtwistle of Huncoats
Bispham of Bispham
Blackborne of Blackborne
Blackborne of Wisewall
Blundell of Ince Blundell
Blundell of Preston
Blundell of Crosby
Bold of Bold
Booth of Barton
|Booth of Booth
Booth of Salford
|Bootle of Lathom
Butler of Bewsey
Butler of Layton and Hackensall
Butler of Kirkland
Butterworth of Bellfield
Byrom of Byrom
Byrome of Byrome
Byrome of Manchester
Byrome of Salford
Byron of Clayton
Calvert of Cockerham.
Cansfield of Cansfield
Carus of Halton
Clitherowe of Salſes]bury
Cole of Bolton
Cooper of Carnford
Crofts of Clayton
Crombache of Clerk Hill
Crompton of Oldham
Cross of Cross Hall
Cross of Liverpool
Cudworth of Worneth
Culcheth of Abram
Culcheth of Culcheth
Cunliffe of Cunliffe, Hollings, and
Wycollar
* These will be found in the MS. vols. numbered 8017, 8019,
8020, 8022, 8024, and 8026. – H. Mr. Gregson mentions an
original copy of the Visitation of Lancashire, A.D. 1662, in this
library, supposed to be in Dugdale's own handwriting, containing
two hundred and eighty-four entries of arms and genealogies, but
we do not find any such MS., nor was there any Visitation of Lanca-
shire made by Dugdale in that year.—B. There is no such MS. in
the library. Dugdale's Visitation of Lancashire was not in 1662
but in 1664 and 1665, of which the office copy (C. 37) is preserved
in the Heralds' College.—H.
244
CHAP, XVI.
(Iſiſt ºffistory of 3Lancashire,
T)alton of Dalton
Dalton of Thornham
Daniel of Wigan
Deane of Blackborne
Denton of Denton
Dewhirst of Alston
Dickinson of Eccleston
I)itchfield of Ditton
Ditton of Ditton
Dodding of Conishead
Downes of Wardley
Duckenfield of Hinley
Duxbury of Deane
I)ymeley of Downham
Eaton of Eaton
Eccleston of Eccleston -
Eccleston of Eccleston, near Pres-
ton
Egerton of Shaw
Elston of Elston
|Eltonhead of Eltonhead
Entwistle of Entwistle and Fox-
holes
Eyres of Fishwick
Farrington of Wearden
Farrington of Farrington
Farrington of Halton Grange
Parrington of Ribbleton
Faulconberg of Yarom
Fazakerley of Fazakerley
Fazakerley of Kirkby
Fazakerley of Wearden
Titton of Great Harwood
Fitton of Rufford
Fleetwood of Penwortham
Fleetwood of Plumpton
Fleetwood, another descent
|Fleetwood, another descent
Fleetwood of Ross Hall
Fleming of Croston
Forth of Swindley
Foxcroft Of Foxcroft
French of PrestOn
Fyffe of Wedacre
Garside of Garside, Oakenhead,
and Rochdale
Gerard of Brynne
Gerard of Ince
Gerard of Helagh, Bromley
Gerard, another descent
Gerard of Brandon
Gerard of Halsall
Gillibrand of Peel
Gillibrand of Romesgrave
Gillibrand of Chorley
Girles of Prestwich
Girlington of Thurgoland Castle
Goodlowe of Ashpool
Gorsach of Gorsach
Greenakers of Rede and Worston
Greenhalgh of Brandlesome
Greenhalgh of Greenhalgh
Gregory of Manchester
Gresley of Manchester
Greston of Greston
Grimshaw, of Grimshaw and Clay-
ton
Habergham of Habergham
Hacking of Hacking
Halsall of Bickerstaff, Halsall,
and Melling
Halsted of Banck House
Harrington of Hornby Castle
Harrington of Huyton
Barrington of Westby, Blackrode,
etc. •,
Harrison of Aldcliffe
Hartley of Chorlton and Strange
ways -
Hawarden of Fennystrete
Hawarden of Appleton
Haworth of Haworth
Haworth of Parkhead, etc.
Haye of Monkhall and Chorlton
Hall
Hayton of Hayton
Helme of Gosnarghe
Hesketh of Hesketh
Hesketh, another descent
Hesketh of Aughton
Hesketh of Whye Hill and Hes-
lington -
Hesketh of Poolton and Maynes
Heskēth of Meales
Hesketh of Rufford Hall
Heyricke of Manchester
Heysham of Highfield
Heyworth of Heyworth
Hilton of Hilton
Hilton of Milwood
Hilton of Farnworth
Hodgkinson of Preston
Hoghton of Lea.
Holcroft Of Hurst,
Holcroft Of Holcroft
Holden of Holden
Holden of Shageley -
Holländ of Litherland, Eccleston,
and Swineshead
Holland of Denton, Clifton
Holland of Sutton
Holland of Sutton, another descent
|Holland of Hale
Holme of Urmston
Holt of Stubley
Holt of Grislehurst
Holt of Bridgehall
Holt of Ashworth
Hopwood of Hopwood
Hothersall of Hothersall
Houghton of Houghton Tower
Houghton of Pendleton
Houghton of Park Hall
Houghton of Grimsargh
Houghton of Entwistle
Huddlestone of Huddlestone
Hulme of Hulme
Hulton of Hulton
Hurlston of Hurlston
Hutton of Thorpinstye
Hyde of Hyde and Urmston
Hyde of Denton
Hyndley of Hyndley
Ince of Ince
Ireland of Hutt, and Hale
Ireland of Lydgate
Johnson of Preston
Renion of Peel
Kenyon of Kenyon
Kighley of Inskip
Kirkby of Kirkby
Kirkby of Upper Rawcliffe
Rirkby of Crosshall
Kirkby of Mowbrecke
Kitchen of North Meales
Knipe of Broughton
Kuerden of Kuerden
Kuerden of Walton
Lacy of Langworth
Lancaster of Lancaster
Lancaster of Rainhill
Langford of Hough
Langley of Edgecroft
Langley of Ayrescroft
Langton, Baron of Newton
Langton of Lowe
Langton of Broughton
Langton of Walton
Langtree of Langtree
Lathome of Lathome
Lathome of Parbold
Lathome of Wiston
Lathome of Irlam
Laurence of Ashton
Lea of Lea.
Leigh of Barton
Leigh of Bradley
Leigh of Brush -
Leigh of Walton, Bothomes, and
Preston
Leigh of Singleton
Leigh of Oughterington
Lemmon of Preston
Lever of Great Lever
Lever of Alkrington
Lever of Kersall
Leyland of Morley
Lightboone of Manchester
Linch of Warrington
Livesey of Livesey
Livesey of Sutton
Longuevillers of Hornby Castle
Longworth of Upper Rawcliff
Lovel of Halewood
Lowde of Kirkham
Lowe of Preston
Maghull of Maghull
Markland of Wigan
Markland of the Meadows
Mason of Clitherow
Massey of Rixton
Massey of Carlston
Maudsley of Maudsley
Meadowcroft of Smethurst
Meales of Meales
Melson of Fairhurst, etc.
Melton of Melling
Mercer of West Derby
Mereland of Mereland
Merton of Melling
Middleton of Leighton
Minshull of Manchester
Mitton of Mitton
Molyneaux of Sephton
Molyneaux of Thornton, etc.
Molyneaux of Rainhill and
Hawksley
Molyneaux of Wimberley
Molyneaux of Thorpe
Molyneaux of Combscough
Molyneaux of Shipton
Molyneaux of Tarbrick, etc.
Molyneaux of Kirton
Molyneaux of Crosby and Wood-
house
Molyneaux of New Hall
Montbegon of Hornby Castle
Moore or More of Bank Hall
More of Leverpoole
Morecroft of Ormeskirk
Morley of Morley
Morley of Wennington
Mort of Highfield, Dapilton, and
Damhouse
Mort of PrestOn
Moseley of Hough-end
Moseley of Manchester, Ancotes,
and Garrett
Mosley of Holme
Mossoake of Keniscough
Mowbrick of Mowbrick
Nelson of Maudsley
Netby of Netby
Neville of Hornby Castle
Newsome of Newsome
Newton of Newton
Newton of Lancaster
Norris of Sutton and Speke
Norris of Tarlton and Middleforth
Norris of Davy Hulme
Nowell of Rede
Nuthall of Nuthall
Nuthall of Tottington
Ogle of Whiston
Ogle of Prescot
Oldham of Oldham.
Oldham of Manchester
Ormeston of Ormeston
Ormrode of Ormrode
Orrill of Orrill
Orrill of Turton
Osbaldiston of Osbaldiston
Osbaldiston of Sunderland
Parker, Lord Morley and Mont-
eagle, Hornby Castle
Parker of Bradkirk
Parker of Entwistle -
Parker of Bromloweſſ Browsholme]
Parker of Holland
Parr of Kempnough and Cleworth
Patten of Warrington
Pemberton of Pemberton
Penketh of Penketh.
Pennington of Wigan
Pigot of Preston
Pilkington of Pilkington
Pilkington of Rovington
Plessington of Plessington
Plessington of Pelingford
Porter of Lancaster
Preston of Preston
Preston of Holker
Preston of Manmor
Prestwich of Prestwich
Pudsey of Bolton
Radcliff of Ordsall
Radcliff of Radcliff
Radcliff of Radcliff, another de-
scent -
Radcliff of Radcliff, another de-
scent
Radcliff of Chatterton
Radcliff of Todmorden
Radcliff of Leigh
Radcliff of Wimberley
Ratcliff of Edgworth
Rawlinson of Greenhead, Tottle-
bank, and Carke
Rawstorne of Newhall
Reddish of Reddish
Redman of Gressingham
Ridge of Marple and Ridge
Rigby of Harrock
Rigby of Middleton
Rigby of Layton and Burgh
Rigby of Huncote
Rigby of Rigby
Rigmaden of Rigmaden
Riley of the Green
Rishton of Ponthalghe
Rishton of Antley
Rishton of Dunkenhalghe
Rishton of Rishton
Rishton of Dunnishopp
Risley of Risley
Rixton of Rixton
Robinson of Preston, etc.
Salſes]bury of Salſes]bury
Sale of Hop Carr
Samlesbury of Samlesbury
Sandford of Nuthurst
Sandys of Graythwaite
Sankey of Sankey
Sawrey of Plumpton
Scaresbreck of Scaresbreck
Sclater of Light Oakes
Scillycorn of Scillycorn
Scolefield of Scolefield
Shackerley of Shackerley
Sharples of Sharples
CHAP. XVI. Ǻr £istory of £ancashire, 245
Sharples of Frickleton Southworth of Samlesbury Tildsley of Moreleys Walmsley of Banister Hall
Sharrock of Walton Spencer of Ashton Hall Tong of Tong Walmsley of Dunkenhalgh
Shaw of Bull-haghe Standish of Standish Torbeck of Torbeck Walton of Walton
Shaw of Heath Charnock Standish of Duxbury Townley of Townley Warburton of Arley
Shaw of Shaw Place Standish of Burghe Townley of Barnside Watmough of Micklenhead
Shaw of PrestOn Stanley Earls of Derby Townley of Carr West of Borwick
Shaw of Hey Side Stanley of Hornby Castle Townley of Royle Westby of Mirescough
Sherborne of Sherborne Stanley of Stanley Townley of Oakenhead Westby of Rawcliffe
Sherborne of Stannihurst Stanley of Moor Hall Townley of Stonedge Westby of Mowbreck .
Sherborne of Wolf House Stanley of Bickerstaffe Townley of Ditton Whittacre of Simonstone
Sherborne of Ribbleton Stanley of Crosshall Townley of Littleton Whittingham of Whittingham
Sherborne of Mitton Stanley of Broughton Townleys of Hirstwood Wilbraham of Woodhey
Sherborne of Twistleton Stanley of Holt and Tatton Trafford of Trafford |Winckley of Winckley
Sherrington of Sherrington Stanley of Eccleston Trafford of Chatterton Winckley of Preston
Shuttleworth of Hacking Starkey of Barthington Travers of Neatby Winstanley of Winstanley
Shuttleworth of Gawthorpe Starkey of Huntroyd Tunstall of Thurland Castle Wood of Turton
Shuttleworth of Asteley Starkey of Aughton Tunstall of Bolton Woodward of Shevington
Shuttleworth of Bedford Starkey of Pendle Hall Turton of Turton Woolfall of Woolfall
Shuttleworth of Shuttleworth Strangeways of Strangeways Valentine of Bentoliff Woolfal of Aughton
Shuttleworth of Larbricke Sutton of Rixton Veale of Whinneyleys Woolton of Woolton
Singleton of Singleton Talbot of Dinckley Urmston of West Leigh Worsley of Worsley and Booths
Singleton of Staning Talbot of Salſes]bury Ursewick of Lancaster Worsley of Manchester
Singleton of Browcow Talbot of Carr Wadsworth of Hayton Worthington of Worthington
Slater of Light Oakes Tetlow of Cunscough Wall of Preston and Morehall Worthington of Blainsco
Smith of Cuerdley Tetlow of Oldham Wall of Preston and Chingle Hall Worthington of Crawshaw
Smyth of Peel House Tidsley of Tidsley, Wardley Walmsley of Showley Worthington of Shevington
Sorocold of Barton Tildsley of Garret Walmsley of Caldcotes Wrightington of Wrightington
The following additional names of the gentry of Lancashire have not in our manuscript copy the residences, though they have
the arms annexed:—Agard, Antringham, Apleisdon, Arrowsmith, Arbrech ; Ball, Bayne, Bellowe, Bewick, Bethone, Bolton,
Bozone, Broughton, Brindleshaw, Brough, Bushoppe, Byron ; Chantrell, Curwen ; Dalton, Dansey [Dauntesey, Delamere, Delafield,
Dennets; English ; Fleming, Fitzwarren, Fitzwilliams, Forward, Frickleton ; Garnet, Gentel, Gawen, Goldsworth, Greenham,
Grassam ; Halliwell, Hawksted, Haydock, Heyton, Hodgson ; Ipress, Ireball; Kendal, Keswick, Kirstow ; Linacres, Linsey ;
Magnyll, Mildmore, Morris, Mouthall; Norvans, North, Norwood; Ormesby; Peeford, Peyton, Pickering, Plumpton, Prent;
Ransford, Rawshorne ; Sands, Sanupe, Scales, Smith, Strickland; Tapaler, Thompson, Thornborough, Thwaytes, Tipping, Travers,
Twyford; Verdon ; Weld, Werdon, Windsore, Wright. . -
This county gives the title of duke of Lancaster to the king; Manchester confers the title of duke on
the Montagues; (West) Derby, the title of earl on the Stanleys; Warrington, that of earl on the Greys;
and Liverpool the earldom on the Jenkinsons; the Byrons are barons of Rochdale, in this county; the duke
of Hamilton had a seat (Ashton Hall) on the banks of the Lune; the earl of Ellesmere, at Worsley; the earl
of Wilton, at Heaton ; Lord Petre, at Dunken Hall; Lord Suffield, at Middleton; and the duke of Devon-
shire, at Holker; the earl of Sefton resides at Croxteth Park; and Earl Balcarras, baron of Wigan, at Haigh
Hall. The other seats of noble families in Lancashire, are:—Knowsley Hall, Earl of Derby; Lathom House,
Lord Skelmersdale; Childwall Hall, marquis of Salisbury; Holker Hall, duke of Devonshire; Bewsey Hall,
Lord Lilford; Worsley Hall, earl of Ellesmere ; Great Lever Hall, earl of Bradford ; Peel Hall, late Lord
Renyon; Ashton-under-Lyne Hall, earl of Stamford and Warrington; Dinkley Hall, Lord Warren de Tabley.
Atherton Hall, the seat of Lord Lilford, has been pulled down. The Listers derive their title from the vale
of one of the principal rivers of the county, but their seat is at Gisburne Park in Ribblesdale, on the eastern
side of the border, before the Ribble quits Yorkshire. -
Before the general history of Lancashire is concluded, it may be proper shortly to advert to the
geographical situation of the county, and to its agriculture and minerals, as well as to its rivers and other
distinguishing characteristics. .
The geographical situation of Lancashire is between 53° 20' and 54° 25' north latitude, and between
2° 0' and 3° 17' west longitude ; it is bounded on the north by Cumberland and Westmorland, on the east
by Yorkshire, on the south and south-east by Cheshire, and on the west by the Irish Sea. Its extreme length
from N.W. to S.E. is 86 miles, and its greatest breadth 45 miles; its circumference is 294 miles; and its
surface 1765 square miles, of which about 1125 are comprehended in the district south of the Ribble, and
650 to the north of that river. The area of the county comprises 1,219,221 acres of land, of which
about 400,000 are in tillage, 450,000 in pasture, and about 400,000 in wood-lands, moors, and mosses, of
which 350,000 acres may be termed waste. It is divided into the six hundreds of Lonsdale, Amounderness,
Blackburn, Leyland, Salford, and West Derby; and contains 69 parishes (exclusive of nine extra-parochial
places), 446 townships, 16 parliamentary boroughs, and 29 market-towns. This county, as has been already
seen, is palatinate, and it is the chief seat of the duchy of Lancaster: ecclesiastically, it is in the province
of York, and in the dioceses of Manchester, Chester, and Carlisle; and judicially, in the northern circuit, though
of late it has practically formed a circuit of itself; with assizes held at Lancaster, at Liverpool, and at
Manchester; and at the Manchester assizes, August 1867, the grand jury in a presentment urged the formation
of Lancashire into a separate circuit.
Although the climate of Lancashire is humid, the air is generally pure and Salubrious. In the elevated
246 - Qſìjt #istory of £ancashirt. char. xvi.
and hilly regions on the north and eastern boundaries it is of course cold and piercing, but in the lower
districts, shelving to the south and the west, it is in general mild and genial. Severe frost is seldom
experienced in the low lands of Lancashire for more than a few days; a covering of snow is generally soon
dissolved by the mildness of the atmosphere, and by the saline particles wafted by the western winds from
the Irish Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Seed-time and harvest are as early here as in the neighbouring
counties. They vary a little between the north and the south parts of the county, and are the latest
towards the east, contiguous to the mountains. The winds generally veer from S. to N. by the W. point ;
they are rarely easterly, and those which most prevail are the S.W. the S. and the W. As to the
humidity of the climate, it must be admitted “that the hills which form the line of separation between
Yorkshire and Lancashire arrest the clouds from the Atlantic Ocean in their progress, causing them to deposit
their contents,” and that consequently there is more rain in Lancashire than the general average of the
kingdom ; but the difference is less than is imagined, and it will be shown that the opinion that Lancashire
is the water-pot of England, and that “it is always raining in Manchester,” is a popular error, capable of
refutation from the test of meteorological observation. The average depth of rain which falls throughout
England in the course of a year is about 28 inches. London appears to be subject to less rain than any
other part of the kingdom ; and as we recede from the metropolis, the quantity of rain is frequently found
to increase in about the same proportion, so that in Cornwall it is nearly the same as in Lancashire. The
following table, which exhibits the mean monthly and annual quantity of rain, in inches and decimal parts,
at various places, for an average of many years, will serve to correct a general prejudice against the climate
of this county —
MEAN MONTHLY AND ANNUAL QUANTITIES OF RAIN AT WARIOUS PLACES, BEING
THE AVERAGES FOR MANY YEARS.



5 r— f: $– CQ 6
C tº CO
#: @ 5 § 5 : 3 £ r; £ .3 #: ă ă 5 §3 2, # £ # Tº $,
§ 3; £ 3 : 3 3 3 | "º 3 || 3: 3 § 3 ; 3 # # 3 § 3 35 §
"CŞ ºs § #, 3 Ps 3 P. 5 : F Ps 3 Ps 5 P. & Prs .P. Ps 5 §
§ 22 .# Co & ec cº c $4 lo E so 5 § H Sz P+ as P. G. 5 :
5 ° H r- # = H GN GN C. H F- ~H H <H
Inch. Inch. Inch. Inch. Inch, Inch. Inch. Inch. F. Inch. F. Inch. Inch.
January . 2:310 2.177 2 196 3'461 5 '299 3'095 1 : 595 1'464 1 228 2.477 2'530
February . 2:568 1 '847 | 652 2.995 5'126 2.837 I '741 I 250 I 232 I-700 2'295
March . . . 2:098 1 ‘523 1.322 1753 3' 151 2°164 I 184 1 - 172 | '190 I '927 1748
April . . . 2010 2 : 104 2.078 2-180 2.986 2:01.7 '979 1:279 I 18.5 2’686 I '950
May . . 2.895 2-573 2 II 8 2°460 3'480 2°568 I '641 | '636 I '767 2.931 2'407
June . . . 2'502 2:816 2°286 2'512 2.722 2-974 1 "343 1.738 I-697 2-562 2°315
July . . 3-697 3'663 3:006 4°140 4'959 3'256 2:303 2 *448 1-800 1-882 3 *115
August. . 3:665 3°311 2 °435 4 '581 5'039 3-199 2-746 1-807 1 '900 2:347 3 "103
September. 3:281 3-654 2.289 3.751 4'874 4'350 1.617 1 '842 1'550 4°140 3'135
October . 3-922 3-724 3.079 4 * 151 5*439 4°143 2.297 2-092 I '780 . 4:741 3’537
November. 3'360 3'441 2’634 3-775 4:785 3:174 1 904 2.222 1:720 || 4-187 3:120
December . 3'832 3.288 2°569 3'955 6'084 3 * 142 I '981 1:736 1:600 || 2:397 3'058
Year. 36-140 | 34-121 27.664 || 39:714 || 53-944 36.919 21:331 | 20-686 | 18-649 || 33.977 || 32-313
As the nature of the soil and the minerals which a county affords depend on the rocks and beds which
underlie them, it is necessary to give a list of the strata, which may be stated in the following descending
order." The geology of the county may be broadly ranged under these nine great divisions:—I. Drift-
Deposits. II. Trias, or New Red Sandstone. III. Permian Series. TV. The Coal-Measures. W. Limestone
Shale. VI. Mountain Limestone. VII. Old Red Sandstone. VIII. Upper Silurian ; and IX. Lower
Silurian. Under these, we now proceed to enumerate the subdivisions, specifying the minerals contained in
each subdivision, with their qualities and uses; and then briefly indicate the nature of the soils forming the
surface of such subdivision.
I.—DRIFT DEPOSITS.
Of the four subdivisions of this great upper deposit, the 1st is the WALLEY-GRAVEL, consisting of a bed
of coarse gravel, composed of various-sized azoic, palaeozoic, and a few triassic rocks, well rounded, parted
with layers of fine sand without pebbles, exhibiting every appearance of having been deposited by water ;
most frequently stratified, but sometimes unstratified. It has generally two well-marked terraces above the
level of the present rivers, as well as some minor terraces. On the top of this deposit are generally found
three to four feet of silty loam. The valley-gravel is about 40 feet in maximum thickness.
Soils, etc.—All the rich meadows and pasture-lands in the county are found lying on this deposit, such
as those on the rivers Lune, Ribble, Darwen, Wenning, Wyre, Calder, Brock, Mersey, and Roch; compre-
hending a very large extent of excellent land. - -
1. For the following admirable and clear yet concise summary of indebted to the friendship of an able and eminent geologist, whom
the rocks and beds, their minerals, and the soils above them, I am I am not permitted to name.—H.
CHAP. XVI. (ſhe 39tstory of 3Lancashire. 247
2. FOREST-SAND and GRAVEL.—This is a deposit of sharp forest-sand, parted with layers of gravel, and
the same rocks as are contained in No. 1, and having every appearance of a regular deposit by water,
distinguishable only by its being found at greater elevations, containing more sand, and being generally more
regularly stratified. It often contains thin beds of till and loam lying in it, as well as drifted coal. Its
maximum thickness is about 90 feet. A.
Soils, etc.—All the soil found on the gently rising grounds in the county, reaching generally to about 800
feet above the level of the sea, and composing the sandy and loamy soils, which form good pasture and
agricultural land.
3. TILL or BOULDER-CLAY.—This is a mass of strong brown clay, in which are mingled the same kinds
of rock as those contained in Nos. 1 and 2, of sizes from six tons down to small pebbles—some rounded and
partly rounded, and others quite angular, especially coal-measure and magnesian limestone rocks, without any
order of deposition, great and small stones being mixed together indiscriminately. It is quite impervious to
water, and is well known as a valuable brick-clay, and as being the deposit which yields striated or scored stones.
Beds of fine laminated silt, and patches of sand, are sometimes found in it. Its thickness is about 100 feet.
Soils, etc.—This deposit composes the stiff clay soils on which, in the lower districts, are found thick
beds of acid peat. It is also known for its thick beds of excellent brick-clay. This deposit covers the greatest
extent of country of any of the drift deposits, and is found from the level of the sea up to 1200 feet above
that level in some places, and is very variable in thickness.
4. LOWER GRAVEL.—This is a bed of sand or coarse gravel, having pebbles consisting of the same kinds
of rocks as Nos. 1, 2, and 3, sometimes but not always well rounded, occurring under the brick-clay. It
often affords good springs of bright water. Its thickness is about 30 feet.
Soils, etc.—This deposit being seldom exposed at the surface, it affects but little the nature of the soils of
the county.
II.-TRIAS, or NEW RED SANDSTONE,
This division includes the Keuper and the Bunter strata. The KEUPER has two great beds,-
1. The RED MARLS, 3000 feet in thickness.
Soils, etc.—When uncovered by drift–deposits, this bed forms strong red clays, similar to those found in
Cheshire, and is remarkable for containing brine-springs and beds of gypsum. It underlies a great extent of
country on the west side of the county next the sea; though not exposed to view, owing to the thick beds of
drift by which it is covered.
2.—THE LOWER KEUPER, SANDSTONES and WATER STONES.—This lower bed of the Keuper is about
450 feet in thickness.
Soils, etc.—It is seldom exposed in this county, but it yields beds of building stone.
BUNTER.—This has three deposits, of which 1, the UPPER MoTTLED SANDSTONE, is 500 feet in thickness.
Soils, etc.—It is seldom exposed, but when it does form the soil it affords good warm land, and is
remarkable for containing good springs of water.
2. PEBBLE-BEDs, 650 feet in thickness.
Soils, etc.—These seldom afford any good building stone ; but when near the surface, and uncovered by
drift, they yield good, warm, and dry land.
3. LOWER MOTTLED RED SANDSTONE, 100 feet thick, but often absent. This is seldom exposed at the
surface, and consequently has little influence on the composition of the soil.
III.-PERMIAN SERIES.
This great series may be classed in six subdivisions:—
1. LAMINATED and FINE-GRAINED RED SANDSTONES.—These may be taken as about 300 feet in thickness.
Soils, etc.—These do not exercise much influence on the nature of the soils; but in the district about
Furness Abbey they yield a good durable building stone, of which the abbey is built.
2. RED and VARIEGATED CLAYs and MARLS.–These are also about 300 feet thick, and contain sometimes,
but not always, beds of limestone and gypsum, and bands of sandstone. The clays and limestones contain
fossil shells of the genera Schizodus, Gervillia, etc.
Soils, etc.—These are seldom exposed at the surface, and consequently have little influence on the
composition of the soils. The beds of limestone afford good water-setting limes, such as those of Bedford
and Worsley. Other beds afford good building stone, as at Skillaw Clough, lying north-east of Ormskirk;
and at Stank, in Lower Furness. Sometimes beds of fine white gypsum are met with in this deposit.
3. CONGLOMERATE or BRECCIA.—This varies in thickness from one foot to a hundred feet.
Soils, etc.—The conglomerate is only exposed at two places in the county—viz. at Cheetham Weir-hole,
near Manchester, and at Rougham Point, near Flookborough, in the parish of Cartmel, so that it has no effect
on the soils of the county, and does not yield any building stones or useful minerals.
4. LOWER NEW RED SANDSTONE. This is generally soft and incoherent ; its thickness about 500 feet.
Soils, etc.—It is seldom exposed at the surface, but it is met with at Collyhurst, near Manchester ; at
248 - (Iſiſt £istorg ºf £ancagüirº, . CHAP. XVI.
Sutton, near St. Helens; at Grimshaw Delph, midway between Ormskirk and Wigan; at Roach Bridge, near
Preston; at Cokersand Abbey; at Robshaw Point, at the mouth of the Lune, near Lancaster; and at
Rougham Point, near Flookborough. It is well known from its affording most excellent moulding sand, and its
yielding good springs of water.
5. RED SHALY CLAYS.—These are not seen anywhere in the county. -
6. ASTLEY PEBBLE-BEDS.—These, although containing the common coal-plants, lie quite unconformable
both to the coal-measures and to the Upper Permian series. They are termed the Lower Permian, and are
about 60 feet in thickness.
Soils, etc.—These beds are never exposed at the surface in this county, being only found in sinking,
TV.--THE COAL-MEASURES.
These may be ranged under three subdivisions. r -
1. THE UPPER COAL-MEASURES.—These commence with the red shales and clays, containing beds of
limestone at Ardwick, near Manchester, and terminating with the Bradford four-feet coal. They are about
2000 feet in thickness. * - -
Minerals, etc.—These upper measures afford six beds of coal, which have been wrought at different places
near Manchester, one of which, the lowest, the Pendleton, and Bradford four-feet, is celebrated for its qualities
as an iron-puddling and glass-making coal. The limestones, especially those at Ardwick, are known for their
excellent water-setting properties, and (without entering into speculations as to their use by the Romans here)
have been worked for the last hundred years. 3.
2. MIDDLE COAL-MEASURES.—These commence with the floor of the Pendleton four-feet, and terminate -
with the Riley or Arley Mine, having a thickness of 2910 feet.
Minerals, etc.—These contain about twenty workable beds of coal; in the upper and middle parts
yielding excellent steam-coals, such as those of Denton, Ashton-under-Lyne, Oldham, Middleton, Burnley,
Heywood, Bury, Clifton, Hulton, Worsley, Tildesley, Atherton, Leigh, Hindley, Aspull, Blackrod, Wigan,
Ashton-in-Makerfield, Haydock, Pemberton, St. Helens, Bickerstaff, etc. The lower seams yield good house
and caking coals, such as the Black and the Bent mines of Ashton-under-Lyne and Oldham, and at Burnley,
Cliviger, and Little Hulton ; the King, the Smith, the Yard, and the Arley mines of Wigan, Hindley,
Pemberton, St. Helens, and Bickerstaff. They also yield the cannels of Ashton-under-Lyne, Oldham, Hulton,
Worsley, and Wigan. - . -
3. LOWER COAL-MEASURES.—These commence with the Arley mine, and terminate with the lowest
Millstone Grit, and are 3500 feet in thickness.
Minerals, etc.—These lower measures include seven beds of coal, ranging over the greater part of the
elevated parts of the county, and yield good caking and Smithy coals, as well as coals suitable for household
purposes. They are met with at Stalybridge, Mossley, Oldham, Rochdale, Todmorden, Bacup, Cliviger, Colne,
Padiham, Accrington, Baxenden, Blackburn, Darwen, Turton, Horwich, Chorley, Wrightington, Upholland,
and Newburgh. Some of the coal-floors afford most excellent fire-clays, which are extensively worked; and
some of the most durable building-stones and flag-stones of the county are obtained from this group of the
coal-measures. The beds of shale on the high lands are known from their being covered by thick deposits of
alkaline peat.
W.—LIMESTONE SHALE.
This division consists of various shales and grits, and is 2000 feet in thickness.
Soils, etc.—It results in a surface of cold land, often covered with peat, and seldom containing minerals
suitable for any useful purpose.
WI.-MOUNTAIN LIMESTONE.
This well-known series is also 2000 feet in thickness.
Soils, Minerals, etc.—The mountain limestone forms the highlands in the north-east part of the county,
giving dry pastures. It sometimes affords lead in small quantities, but is chiefly remarkable in the district of
Furness for its containing the valuable deposits of haematite or red iron-ore, which are found in immense
masses, occupying valleys and “swallow-holes” in the limestone. In some districts this limestone is used as
a building-stone, and all over the county is worked for the purpose of being burned into lime, and then used
for building or for agricultural purposes, being well known as the best lime in the county. -
VII.-OLD RED SANDSTONE.
Not seen in the county.
VIII.-UPPER SILURIAN.
This division is about 5000 feet in thickness.
Minerals, etc.—The Upper Silurian is known from its yielding excellent slates and flag-stones, such as those at
Kirkby-Ireleth, and other places, and from its forming the fells of the northern and eastern parts of the county.
*
CHAP, XVI. Qſìje 3%istory of £antašijire. 249
IX.—LOWER SILURIAN.
This geological stratum has a thickness of about 10,000 feet.
Minerals, etc.—The lower does not occupy so great an extent in this county as the Upper Silurian; but
it affords slates, and in the neighbourhood of Coniston mines of copper.
The above summary gives the various soils, as resulting from the strata and deposits which underlie
them. But we may place in juxtaposition with this another summary of the surface lands and soils, which
will afford, with a different classification and arrangement, the means of comparison and contrast, and thus
enable the general reader to form a more comprehensive view of the subject in all its bearings, whether
regarded from a geological or an agricultural point of view. -
Lancashire naturally divides itself into two distinctly-marked tracts of land:—
FIRST-The High Mountainous or Moory Tract ; and
SECOND–The Low Level or Flat Tract.
The former exhibits a sort of crescent boundary to the north, east, and South ; and the latter spreads
out westward to the shores of the Irish Sea.” -
These great divisions may be subdivided, in the view of cultivation, according to their different
qualities, thus:—
I. The Hilly and High Moory or Heathy Division. W. The Mersey or Southern Division.
II. The Steep Fell or High Furness Division. VI. The Ribble and Fylde Division.
III. The elevated Craggy Limestone Division. + VII. The Lime and Flat Limestone Division.
IV. The Valley Land Division. VIII. The Low Furness Division.
IX. The Moss or Peaty Division.
The First of these subdivisions comprehends the mountainous ridges which rise in succession from the S.E. boundary to
Rochdale, and end in the high felly tract above Leck, and the N.E. border to the Yorkshire limits. The Second comprehends the
Furness and Cartmell Fells. The Third extends from Warton and Yealand to Silverdale. The Fourth includes the various valleys
formed by the different ranges of hills in the two first divisions, and the valleys on the Lune, Ribble, Darwen, Wenning, Wyre,
Calder, and Brock; comprehending a great quantity of land of excellent quality. The Fifth, or Mersey subdivision, comprises a
rich and fertile tract of flattish land from the northern bank of the Mersey to the Southern bank of the Ribble in one direction, and
from the sea-coast to considerably above the town of Oldham in the other. The Sixth contains a tract of land less extensive, but
little inferior in quality, stretching from the north bank of the Ribble to the south border of the Lune, in one line; and from
Lytham and Bispham to near Inglewhite, in another. It is of stronger quality than the other, and on the sea-coast of an alluvial
nature. The Seventh commences on the north bank of the Lune, and runs in a narrow tract from Sunderland Point to the northern
extremity of the county, by Warton and Yealand. The Eighth subdivision comprises a Small point of land on the north side of
the Sands, bounded on both sides by the sea-coast, which is usually called Low Furness. The Ninth comprehends the different
peat and boggy tracts called Mosses, which are to be found in each of the two grand divisions of the county, but are by far the
largest and of the greatest depth in the flat land division. Chat Moss, Pilling Moss, Marton Moss, Farington Moss, and Halsall
Moss, are the principal tracts of peat in the county.
The lands that are included under the first four subdivisions are in a great measure employed as pasture; the more high and
mountainous tracts being chiefly occupied by sheep, while the various declivities and valleys in which they terminate form the
grazing and feeding grounds for neat cattle as well as sheep. In the neighbourhoods of Rochdale, Haslingden, Bolton, and Chorley,
the high moory lands afford pasture for cattle and horses as well as for sheep; and in some parts of this extensive range the
common and even the mountain lands have undergone considerable improvements. Trade has made them valuable, and an increasing
population has afforded the means of enriching the soil. The next four subdivisions (Nos. W.-VIII.) are commonly managed under
a sort of mixed cultivation, but grass land is much the most prevalent, especially in the vicinity of towns. Northward, the dairy
is frequently the principal object; but in low situations tillage husbandry prevails to a considerable extent. The Fylde, the Lune,
and the Low Furness districts, form the principal grain-tracts of the county, though in each of these there are large portions of land
under grass, for pasturage and hay. The mossy or peaty tracts form a characteristic of the county of Lancaster.” When properly
drained, this land yields good crops of potatoes, and will produce both grass and grain to remunerate the cultivator, under a proper
system of drainage and improvement. The sandy marsh-land on the borders of the Sea in Lonsdale is capable of being made fine
land by embankment, but ages have passed away without this land having been applied to any valuable purpose of vegetable
production. The soil in the more elevated parts of the hills of Lancashire is in general moory, heathy, and rocky. The lower
portions of the sides of the hills, and the valleys formed by them, are commonly somewhat of the nature of holme. The flat tracts
that spread at a considerable distance below them are chiefly of the loamy, clayey, or alluvial description ; gravelly, and mossy or
peaty portions, being found in all.
The principal Surface distinctions of soil are Heath, Moor, Holme, Loam, Clay, Sand, and Moss or Peat ; and the under strata
or substances on which they are deposited are rock of various kinds, as grit or freestone, bluestone or whinstone, and limestone,
fossil, coal, clay, marl, gravel, and sand. The freestone substrata are of three kinds—yellow, white, and red rock. The blue rocky
stratum prevails in the fell tracts of Furness and Cartmell. The light limestone substratum at Chipping and Longridge Fell, and
the dark-coloured at Duddon, Coniston, and Hawkshead. Clay and marl, both separately and mixed, frequently form the sub-soil
in the flat tracts; and gravel and sand are génerally met with as the sub-soil in low and flat tracts. The whole space between the
Mersey and the Ribble, and between the sea-coast and the first risings of the high hills to the east, is a rich loamy and Sandy soil.
This is the finest district in the county, both for situation and quality of land. The air is mild and warm, and the soil is in general
deep, rich, and productive. In proceeding to the south-east, where the county commences, opposite Stockport by Manchester, then
turning to the left by Pendleton, Worsley, Leigh, Newton, Ashton, Up-Holland, Croston, and Longton, to Penwortham on the
banks of the Ribble to the north-west, and returning thence above Walton-le-dale, by Chorley, Little Bolton, Bury, Rochdale,
Royton, Oldham, and Ashton-under-Lyne ; the land included in this range is in general of the stiffish loamy kind. Below Manches-
1 Dickson. a succession of ages. The grey consist of the same substances, in a
higher state of putrefaction, which in the black is at its height.
* These mosses consist of a kind of moorish boggy earth, and are The grey is harder and more ponderous than the white; the black
distinguished into white, grey, and black, from the colour of the more bituminous than either. Square pieces of these mosses are
turf. The white mosses are compages of the leaves, seeds, flowers, cut out in the shape of bricks, and being laid in the sun to dry, are
stalks, and roots of herbs, plants, and shrubs, accumulated through called turf ſturves], and used for fuel-King's Vale Royal, p. 17.
2 K
250 (Liſt #istorg ºf £ancashire. CHAP, XVI,
ter and at Middleton it is often mixed with sand. Between Manchester and Worsley, in one or two places very strong; it is also
stiff about Hulton, Chowbent, and Leigh, and all the way to near Newton. At Newton it is rendered lighter by the intermixture
of a small portion of Sandy matter of a darkish colour. To the west of Haydock Lodge there is a small tract that has almost the
tenacity of clay. About Ashton, and from thence to Bolton and to Wigan, in the whole breadth to the Ribble, it is commonly a
moderate loam, in some places of a peaty nature, in others much mixed with vegetable matter of a dark appearance. Close round
Croston it is rich alluvial sandy loam ; but approaching Penwortham, it has almost the stiffness of clay, particularly in Hutton.
Above Bolton there is in some places a good strong loam on the red rock bottom. From Bolton to Manchester, in most of the
breadth, it is commonly a good strong loam, in several places deep and rich, especially near the borders of the rivers. It is thinner
about Bury, as it rises to the hills. The tract which extends from the great road by Warrington, Liverpool, and Ormskirk, to the
mouth of the river Douglas at Hesketh Bank, and from the banks of the Mersey and Irish Sea, to the line of division just noticed,
is a range of land that has great fertility, being for the most part a sandy vegetable loam of considerable depth. The little space
that lies between the rivers Irwell and Mersey below Manchester is quite of this quality, rich, and often of a very black colour.
The same soil is particularly conspicuous about Warrington, St. Helens, and all round Ormskirk. Above Winwick it is a stronger
loam, with less vegetable matter, and continues of the same quality in a great measure nearly from Warrington by Prescot and
Knowsley, till within a short distance of Liverpool, where it becomes much intermixed with reddish fine sand, which indeed almost
forms the whole soil in some places; towards the borders of the Mersey it frequently presents the rich black appearance. At
Allerton and Great Woolton it is mixed with sand, and the red rock sometimes appears so near the surface as to be broken by the
plough. In the tract to the north of Liverpool, on both sides the great road, the soil is mostly a still stronger and stiffer loam, but
in many parts much mixed, and of a dark colour. It is nearly the same quality till it approaches Ormskirk. As it advances
towards the coast, it becomes of a much more sandy quality, and there are small spaces almost wholly of this nature. In this
tract, white Sand on clay with marl bottom is the most common substratum ; the rock seldom appears. This fine extensive range
of land, which from the nature of the soil is obviously suited to the production of almost every sort of vegetable, is in general
under a sort of combined system of grass, grain, and horticultural crops. In all the range of land for some distance from the banks
of the river Mersey, extending from the great road near Stockport by Warrington, considerably beyond the town of Liverpool,
potatoes and a few other crops are raised in the horticultural method, along with grain and seed grass. About Stretford, and many
parts of the parish of Flixton, this is the chief management, but the fields of grain are not numerous, and the crops of turnips few.
It prevails still more near Warrington, and at Woolton, Allerton, Garston, and other places in the parish of Childwall. It is met
with in Kirkdale, and other parts of the parish of Walton, but with less grain and fewer green crops. The same system is likewise
noticeable about Ormskirk; to the west of Oldham, and in many parts of the parish of Middleton, particularly towards Manchester
on the east side of the district. The same method prevails in the middle portion of the district, as about Wigan, Prescot, Leigh,
etc.; patches of turnips, or other sorts of green vegetables, are in these places rarely met with. All the sorts of grain are occasionally
grown in these parts, but oats and wheat are the most prevalent. Barley is, however, frequently met with on the coast. The rich
grain-land called the Fylde consists of clayey loam and alluvial soil. It commences on the north bank of the Ribble, and stretches
out to the South bank of the Lune, and from the sea-coast to the foot of the mountainous ridges towards the east. The soil here,
though of a more stiff and adhesive quality, is in general good, and capable of affording abundant crops under suitable drainage and
proper management. The top earthy layer of soil in the whole of this tract may with propriety be denominated a strong loam,
more or less of the clayey kind according to the nature of the situation and other circumstances. Southward from Preston, the
soil is a good moderate clayey loam, readily broken down into a proper state. But northward of Preston, and east of that place,
in the direction of Ribbleton, Goosnargh, above Barton, by Claughton, and by Ashton, Lea, Salwick, Catford above Sowerby, and
Myerscough, it is of a stronger quality. Near Lancaster the surface-layer gets more of a friable nature, and approaches to the state
of a strong pure loam, being much mixed with clay. In a great part of the fine Valley that extends nearly to Glasson Point, the
soil is of a deep, rich, alluvial quality, much mixed with black mould. The land to the west, stretching out to the southern border
of the estuary formed by the Lune, is of the rich loamy clay kind, becoming alluvial as it advances towards the banks of the rivers,
and principally in a state of grass.
In the northern part of the county, the soil is principally of the dry friable and limestone kind, and divided by the sands into
two parts. The first of these tracts begins on the northern border of the Lune, and stretches out from it, and that of the estuary
at its mouth near Sunderland Point, to the extreme boundary at Herring Syke ; the crag at Dalton and Leighton Beck, beyond
Yealand, spreading out from the sea-coast in all the distance to the hilly ranges of moor-land beyond Halton, Kellets, Capern-Wray,
Borwick, and Priest-Hutton. The second tract commences at the point near Rampside on the coast, and extends to above the towns
of Dalton and Ulverstone, rounding out to the sea in both directions. This is the tract of Low Furness, and has the islands of
Walney, Old Barrow, and a few others of very small dimensions, belonging to it. There is a small portion of land of this description
extending from Allithwaite to Flookborough, and bounded by the sea in its whole course. This soil is generally rather thin ; the
best tracts are those just above Lancaster, including the neck of land frequently termed the Little Fylde, and that of Low Furness.
In all these different portions of ground, where the limestone under-stratum lies at no great depth below the surface, there is
Commonly, when in grass, a fine close sward, that shows the limit of the limestone with great exactness.
This general description of the soil of Lancashire, drawn from the surveys of the Agricultural Society, will
naturally be subject to many exceptions; but, as a whole, it may be presumed to be sufficiently accurate to
convey an outline of the face of the county, and to indicate its agricultural capacities. It is a fact in husbandry
worthy of remark, that the first potatoes raised in England were grown in this county, and it is still famous
for producing and cooking that valuable root. The quantity of live stock at present cannot be accurately
ascertained; but when the return was made in 1803, on the alarm of French invasion, there were in Lancashire
648 oxen; 84,527 cows; 54,573 colts and young cattle ; 80,772 sheep and goats; 30,982 pigs; 5474
saddle-horses; 26,660 draught-horses.’ -
This county is rich in minerals, and particularly in that combustible mineral which of all others is the
most important to a manufacturing community. The geology of this portion of the kingdom is also interesting.
The western side of the county of Lancaster, bordering on the Irish Channel, from the mouth of the
river Mersey at Liverpool, to the mouth of the Lune, near Lancaster, is covered, for several miles inland, with
meadows and marshy land, and presents nothing on the surface that is particularly deserving the attention
of the geologist or mineralogist. Between Liverpool and Preston may be seen, on the sands at low-water,
the roots and trunks of trees, the remains of ancient forests; these extend also inland, under the surface
of the country, nearly on a level with the present low-water mark.” Perhaps a probable explanation of
* The cattle-plague of the last three or four years renders it * Speaking of this forest, Mr. Greenough, the president of the
impossible to give a recent reliable return of the number of live Geological Society, in his Geological Map of England, dated
Stock in Lancashire, - - November 1819, says, “There is a subterranean forest extending
CHAP. XVI. Oſije #istorg Of 3|antašijire. 251
the occurrence of subterranean or submarine forests on the coasts of our island, below the level of the sea at
high-water, might be given by admitting the former action of a mighty deluge, sweeping over the surface,
tearing up the trees in its course, and floating them to the coasts, intermixed with sand and mud. Few
counties in England present more decisive proofs of the action of such a deluge than the county of Lancaster.
Masses of stone, some of considerable size, are scattered over many parts of its surface, or buried at a small
depth beneath it, imbedded in clay; and these stones consist of granite, sienite, and other primary rocks,
though no rocks of a similar kind are to be seen in situations nearer than in North Wales, on one side, or
Westmorland or Cumberland on the other, and some of the stones appear to belong to rocks still more remote,
in the mountains of Scotland. These stones are generally more or less rounded by attrition, and have
evidently been transported from a great distance to the places where they are now found.
No county in England is more distinguished than Lancashire for its ancient forests:* exclusive of the
subterranean forest, which probably, before the Roman invasion of Britain, served as the margin for our
principal rivers, and the line of coast on the west side of the county, we have to the north-east the forests of
Wyresdale, Lonsdale, Quernmore, Bleasdale, Lancaster, Bowland, Pendle, Trawden, Accrington, and Rossendale;
in the centre of the county, the forests of Amounderness and Fulwood; and in the south-west, those of Derby-
shire (or Derby Hundred), Symonswood, Croxteth, and Toxteth. The north-eastern forests still retain much of
the character that belonged to them in the time of King John ; but in the centre and south-western part of
the county, civilisation and refinement have taken from the ancient forests not only their primitive wildness,
but have almost deprived them of their name.
It remains only to notice the extent of mineral and other products, as obtained in recent years. And first,
as to coal, one of the main sources of the manufacturing greatness of Lancashire. The rate of increase in the
quantity “got ” is very great, as will be seen, when we state that Mr. Edward Hull, in his “Coal-Fields of Great
Britain’’ estimated the quantity of coals raised in 1857 in Lancashire at 8,565,500 tons;” while Mr. Robert
Hunt, F.R.S. in the “Memoirs of the Geological Survey of Great Britain’’ gives the total produce of coal in
Lancashire in 1865, as 11,962,000 tons. This enormous amount is thus stated in the book named (p. 95.):—
No. of Collieries.
North and East, or Manchester District, Mr. Joseph Dickenson, Inspector ge g- 249
Western District, Mr. Peter Higson, Inspector tº & * e tº & 93
No. of Collieries (including a much larger number of pits) in Lancashire 342
COALS RAISED AND SOLD.
Tons.
North and East District . & 9. g & * & 6,312,000
Western District (including cannel-coal) & * , g 5,650,000
Total coal produce of Lancashire. 11,962,000
In 1865, the production of cannel-coal in Lancashire” was . º 92 650,000
out of a total production in England of 946,175 tons.
In the same year, the total produce of coal in the United Kingdom was . . 98,150,587
so that Lancashire produced considerably more than one-eighth of the whole production of the United Kingdom.
As to the distribution of Lancashire coal by railway, the London and North Western Railway carried in 1865
from the coal-fields of Lancashire 3,440,778 tons; and the Manchester, Sheffield, and Lancashire Railway
received and forwarded 685,789 tons. The shipments of Lancashire coal from the ports of Liverpool, Chester,
Runcorn, Preston, Fleetwood, and Lancaster, in 1865, were—coastwise 462,472 tons, and to foreign countries
650,529 tons. -
In the neighbourhood of Ulverstone, in the district of Furness, were, in the year 1865, no fewer than
20 mines of the red iron ore or haematite, the produce of which in that year is officially stated in the “Memoirs
all the way along the coast, from the Ribble at Penwortham, near * Millions of
Preston, to the Mersey at Liverpool. The inner line of this forest 1. Area of the Main coal-field Sq. * Tººl,
takes in Longton Moss and Much Hoole, crosses the Douglas, con- 2. Area of the Manchester coal-field te 5 - 23
tinues by Rufford, in a directline to Ormskirk, comes near to Melling, 3. Area of the B rnley coal-field sº 20 272
passes to Litherland, and terminates at the Mersey, opposite Everton. gº urnley coal-ne ºf
The parishes of Penwortham, Much Hoole, Rufford, Halsal, Altcar, 217 *-->
and part of Walton, stand upon this forest : taking the line pretty 4,012
nearly of the Lancaster canal to Crowlane, it extends to St. Michael's,
*=-&-º
“The quantity of coal raised in 1857 was 8,565,500 tons. Taking
and from thence keeps the canal line to Lancaster, and, including
the West side of the Lune, continues along the Kendal road to
Warton ; at Cartmel it appears again, and extends into Furness in
that neighbourhood, for a short distance, say three or four miles,
and a little of it is seen between Milnthorpe and the Sands.”
1 See chap. vii.
* “In The Coal-fields of Great Britain,” by Edward Hull, B.A.
(London 1861), the following general summary is given of the extent
of the Lancashire coal-fields and the quantity of available coal:—
the future production at 9,000,000 of tons, there is sufficient coal
to last for 445 years. The above calculation includes the coal
within a vertical depth of 4000 feet. This coal-field contains (1857)
390 collieries, in Lancashire 359; in Cheshire 31, the latter pro-
ducing 550,000 tons.” •
* Eight collieries in the East Lancashire or Manchester district
Produced in 1865 120,000 tons of cannel, and 11 collieries in the
West Lancashire or Wigan district produced in that year 530,000
tons of cannel. - -
252 Oſije #istory of £antašijire. CHAP. XVI.
of the Geological Survey of Great Britain” (p. 65), as amounting in quantity to 607,439 tons, the money
value of which was £303,719. As to the distribution of these ores in 1865, there were shipped at Barrow
(which place, as a consequence of the working of the mines and the traffic in ores, has rapidly grown from a
mere village to a large and flourishing town), 181,767 tons; sent vid Ulverstone, 172,880 tons; to Hindpool
furnaces, 249,344 tons; to Duddon furnaces, 350 tons; shipped at the Ulverstone Canal, 3089 tons: total,
607,439 tons. There were carried in that year, by the North-Eastern Railway, to the Newcastle-on-Tyne
district, 11,370 tons; to the Darlington district, 11,708 tons; to the Stockton-on-Tees district, 9365 tons;
to Hull, 23 tons : total, 32,467 tons. In Lancashire in 1865 there were 6 ironworks, having 24 furnaces
(164 in blast), which produced 204,925 tons of pig-iron. These works are the Barrow Haematite, worked by
a limited company; the Newland and the Backbarrow, worked by Messrs. Harrison, Ainslie, and Company ;
the Kirkless Hall, by the Wigan Coal and Iron Company (limited); the Furness, by the Furness Iron and
Steel Company (limited); and the Carnforth Ironworks. The four furnaces at Newland and Backbarrow, all
using charcoal, were only partially worked. The iron-ore produced in three half-years, 1866 and 1867, in the
Furness district was—
First, Half-Year | Second Half-Year | First Half-Year
1S66. 1866. IS67.
• Tons. TOns. Tons.
Total Furness iron-ore raised . s te * 353,334 330,440 316,400
Say exported—by sea º & te * & 83,651 78,122 57,608
by rail . ſº g * & 113,254 68,572 58,467
Total sent away . . . 196,905 146,694 116,075
Say consumed in district . tº : t e 156,429 183,746 200,325
At Hodbarrow, on the Cumberland side of and under the Duddon, 131,542 tons were produced.
The produce of the one (Coniston) copper-mine in Lancashire in 1865 was 1796 tons of ore, value
£12,175 ; making 161 tons 12 cwt. of fine copper, value £15,226.
The Whitewells mine, near Clitheroe, of Messrs. Colin, Townley, and Company, produces some lead, but
how much does not appear from the return. In 1866, Mr. Hunt states, it produced 250 tons of lead-ore,
containing 750 oz. of silver. Of iron pyrites, or sulphur-ores, the quantity (coal brasses) produced in Lan-
cashire in 1865 is estimated at 2750 tons, value £1100.
Mr. Robert Hunt’s “Mineral Statistics for 1865.” of course contain no return or estimate of the produc-
tion of building and flag stones, or of the ordinary clay. -
In 1859 Mr. E. W. Binney, F.R.S., etc., read before the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society a paper, entitled “A
few Remarks on the Building Stones used in Manchester,” the statements in which are just as true now as when first made. After
pointing out the different duration of building stone in a pure air and dry climate, and in the moist climate of Manchester, in the
atmosphere of which about 40,000 tons of Sulphur are yearly burnt in the coal consumed in the city, to say nothing of the gases
given off by the numerous chemical manufactories, and the exhalations from half-a-million of human beings—Mr. Binney says: “It
may be safely concluded that no quantity of good building stone, suitable for outside building in Manchester, or any like place, can
be procured from the middle coal-field.” He adds that “the lower coal-field and the millstone grit yield the only good building stones
for Manchester. These strata comprise the beds lying under the Arley or Riley seam of coal and the limestone shale, and, from
their being generally found on the high land of the district, are known by the name of ‘High Moor Stone.’” “As a general rule,
the more pure silica the rock is composed of, the better building stone it is. A mixture of mica or clay causes the rock to be more
schistose or flaggy, as well as softer.” In his enumeration of stones and flags, Mr. Binney names the upper flag of Upholland,
Catlow, and Holy Fold (lying between the Arley and Riley coals) and the lower flag of Bradshaw and Shawforth, near Rochdale,
lying under the rough rock and above the upper millstone grit. These flag-beds yield the stone generally used for parpoint work.
A fine sharp-grained silicious grit is found sometimes above the Gannister coal, as at Ending Common, near Rochdale, which makes
a good building stone. A stone much used in building is the Halliwell, Woodhead Hill, or Lomax Wood rock, lying immediately
under the Salts or best coal of New Mills. The rough rock, generally known as Summit and High Moor Stone (the upper millstone
of the Geological Survey), a stone much used in building, is of a coarser grain than the stones previously mentioned. It is composed
of grains and rounded pebbles of translucent quartz, cemented together with partly-decomposed felspar and a little iron and man-
ganese in the state of oxide. It is soft when first quarried, and works pretty freely, hardening when exposed to the air. As a
building stone it is preferred, owing to its working much easier than the two millstones. Parbold, Horwich, Holcombe Hill, Black-
stone Edge, and Werneth Lowe, are good examples of this stone. The upper millstone of Holcombe, Bank Lane, Todmorden, Saddle-
worth, and Tintwisle, is a hard and durable sandstone, composed chiefly of silica. It is much harder to work than the rough rock,
and stands the weather better; but it is not in great use, owing to its being difficult to work. The lower millstone, as seen at
Roecross and Rhodes Wood, Tintwisle, and the lower part of Pendle Hill, contains some excellent building stones; but they are
hard to work, and therefore they have not been much used. It is, no doubt, one of the strongest and most durable stones of the
series. In the lower parts of it are some beds of fine-grained sandstone, freer to work than the upper beds. A most excellent bed
of this description is found at Bailey, near Ribchester.” Finally, Mr. Binney observes that, looking at the facilities afforded by
railways, it might have been expected that some of the beautiful syenite of Shap, containing large crystals of felspar, or the grey
syenite of Bootle and Ravenglass, would have been used for building in Manchester; but he knows of none. The soft freestones of
the coal-measures are in general use, because cheap and easily worked; but durability ought always to be regarded by owners and
architects rather than cheapness. •
The Millstone Grit, or lowest sandstone of the coal-measures, in which workable coal is scarcely ever
found, extends from the northern edge of the southern coal-field between Colne and Blackburn, and stretches
northward towards Hornby, separating the northern from the southern Lancashire coal-fields. This stratum
CEIAP. XVI. Qſìje ??istorm of £antaghire. - 253
forms a tract of mountainous moorland, in which are found Pendle Hill, Padiham Heights, Rivington Pike,
Longridge Fell, Billinge Hill, and several other hills of considerable elevation. A small extent of the mill-
stone grit, as before-mentioned, rises in the midst of the southern coal-field, and a lead-mine was formerly
worked in it at Anlesargh. Here was first discovered a then unknown mineral substance, which was ascer-
tained by Dr. Withering to be the carbonate of barytes. This mineral was for a long time supposed to be
peculiar to Anlesargh, but it has since been found in the Yorkshire and Shropshire lead-mines, associated
with the ores of lead. The millstone grit in this part of Lancashire covers the metalliferous limestone, and
the latter comes to the surface at the bottom of Pendle Hill, and in some other parts of this tract.
The district north of the river Lune, between Lancaster and Kirkby Lonsdale, and from the latter place
along the boundary of the county of Lancaster Sands, has the metalliferous limestone for its immediate
substratum. It is this stratum which, in Yorkshire, Derbyshire, North Wales, and Durham, furnishes a large
quantity of lead-ore, but no veins of this mineral have been discovered, or at least are worked, in the metal-
liferous limestone of Lancashire. In most parts of our island where the limestone abounds, as in Yorkshire
and Derbyshire, it is characterised by the occurrence of large caverns within it, and there is a remarkable
subterranean opening of this kind, called Donald Mill Hole, about seven miles north-east of Lancaster, near
the road to Kirkby Lonsdale.' A small tract of country, South of Dalton in Furness and nearly surrounded
by the sea, has the metalliferous limestone for its immediate substratum.
On the northern side of Morecambe Bay there is a detached portion of the county of Lancaster, called
Furness: this, in a more natural division of the county, would be annexed to Cumberland or Westmorland,
which it adjoins. The mountainous ranges which form the lofty parts of those counties branch into Furness,
and give it an alpine character. The most valuable mineral production of this district is Red Haematite, a
peculiar ore of iron which is obtained near Ulverstone. This is the richest ore in the United Kingdom,
yielding the best and most ductile iron, suited for the purpose of wire-drawers: the ore is also sent to distant
parts of England, to improve the quality of iron, by intermixing it in the furnace with the common ores of
iron, to increase the ductility and tenacity of the metal. This valuable mineral occurs in beds intermixed
with a red unctuous clay, which leaves a bluish metallic stain on the fingers. The ore is frequently found in
large kidney-shaped masses, composed of concentric layers, which have a diverging radiated structure, and are
well known in the cabinets of mineralogists. The mountains on the western side of Winandermere Lake,
and those surrounding the Lake of Coniston, are all situated in this district, and form some of the most
magnificent features in the lake scenery of this part of our island; and they are well known to picturesque
travellers and artists.
The principal mountains in this county are, Coniston Fell, in Furness; the highest part of which, called
Grey Friar, or Old Man,” is, according to the trigonometrical measurement by Colonel Mudge, 2577 feet
above the level of the sea ; and the barometrical admeasurement of Mr. Dalton approaches so near as to come
within six feet of the same elevation. The altitude of Pendle Hill, overlooking Clitheroe, is 1803 feet ;
Bleasdale Forest is 1709 feet, and Rivington Pike 1545 feet, each above the level of the sea, according to the
Ordnance Survey. The other considerable hills and elevated stations in Lancashire are Caton Moor, Woolfell
Crag, Padiham Heights, Longridge Fell, Go Hill, Billinge Hill, Whittle Hills, Cribden Hill, Hambleton Hill,
Cartmell Fells, Wharton Crag, and Graygarth Fell, Bleasdale Forest, Boulsworth Hill, Clougha Pike, Inkling
Green Fell, Lee Pike, Hameldon, Winter Hill, Parlike Hill, Cross of Greet, Grizedale Fells, Uglaw Pike, and
Beacon Fell, with the ridge called Blackstone Edge, which forms the South-east boundary of the county.
Lancashire is a well-watered region, as the ancient name of the inhabitants, the Segantii, or dwellers in
the country of the waters, sufficiently imports. The principal rivers of the county are, the Mersey, the
Ribble, the Lune, the Irwell, the Douglas, the Calder, the Wyre, the Ken, the Leven, and #he Dudden. The
course of these rivers is described by the venerable Harrison, chaplain to Lord Cobham, with great fidelity,
and though this description was written nearly three hundred years ago, it will not on that account be the
less acceptable to many of our antiquarian readers; while others will be impressed with the immutability of
these striking features of nature, and with the slight variation in the names of the places through which the
rivers pass, or that are watered by their fertilising streams.
“The Mersey riseth among the Peke hils, and from thence going downe to the Woodhouse, and taking sundrie rilles withal by the
waye, it becommeth the confines betweene Chester and Darbyshyres. Going also toward Goitehal, it meeteth with a faire brooke
increased by sundrye waters called Goyte. The Goyte riseth not far from the Shire meere hill (wherein the Dove and the Dane haue their
original) that parteth Darbyshire and Chestershyres in sunder, and thence commeth downe to Goyte howses, Ouerton, Taxhall, Shawcrosse,
and at Weybridge taketh in the Frith, and beneath Berdhall the Set that riseth aboue Thersethall and runneth by Ouersette. After this
confluence also the Mersey goeth to Goyte hall, and at Stopford towne meeteth with the Tanne, which diuideth Chestershire and Lancaster-
shyres in sunder, and whose head is the very edge of Yorkeshyre, from whence it goeth Southwarde to Sadleworth Firth, then to Mukel-
hurst, Staly hal, Ashton Underline, Dukenfield, Denton, Reddish, and so at Stockeford or Stopford into the Mersey streame, which passeth
forth in like sort to Diddesbyry, receyuing a brooke by the waye, that commeth from Lime parke, by Bramhall parke and Chedley.
From Diddesbury it proceedeth to Northen, Ashton, Aiston, Flixston, where it receiueth the Irwell, a notable water which riseth aboue
Bacop, and goeth thence to Rosendale, and in the waye to Aytenfielde it taketh in a water from Haselden. After this confluence it goeth
to Newhall, Brandlesham, Bury, and aboue Ratcliffe ioyneth with yº Rache water, a faire streame. Beying therefore past these two, our
1 See West's Guide to the Lakes. - * Old Man is a corruption of Alt Maen—i. e. (Brit.) high rock or stone.
254 Çje #istory of £ancašijire. CHAP, XVI.
Irwel goeth on to Clifton, Hollonde, Edgecroft, Strang wayes, and to Manchester," where it whiteth itselfe with the Yrke, that runneth
thereinto by Royton, Midleton, Heaton hill, and Blackeley. Beneath Manchester also it meeteth with the Medlocke that commeth thyther
from the north-east side of Oldham, and betweene Clayton and Garret Halles, and so betweene two parkes, falling into it about Holme.
Thence our Irwel going forward to Woodsall, Whicleswijc, Ecles, Barton, & Irwelhom, it falleth neere vnto Flixton, into the water of Mersey.
“The Rache consisteth of Sundrye waters, whereof eche one in a maner hath a proper name, but the greatest of all is the Rache it
self, which ryseth among the blacke stony hilles, from whence it goeth to Littlebrough, and beying past Clegge, receyueth the Beyle, that
commeth thither by Mylneraw chappell. After thys confluence also, it meeteth with a rill neere vnto Rachedale, and soone after with the
Sprotton [Spodden] water, and then the Sudley brooke, whereby his chanell is not a litle increased, which goeth from thence to Grisehurst
and so into the Irwell, before it come at Ratcliffe. The second streame is called Bradsha. It ryseth of two heades, aboue Tureton
church, whence it runneth to Bradsha, and ere long taking in the Walmesley becke, they go in one chanell till they come beneath Bolton
in the More. From hence (receyuing a water that commeth from the rootes of Rauenpike hill by the way) it goeth by Deane and Bolton
in the More, and so into Bradsha water, which taketh his way to Leuermore, Farnworth, Leuerlesse, and finally into the Irwell, which I
before described, and whereof I finde these two verses to be added at the last :-
“Yrke, Irwell, Medlocke, and Tame,
When they meete with the Mersey, do lose their name.
“Nowe therefore to resume our Mersey you shall vnderstande that after his confluence with the Irwell he runneth to Partington, and
not farre from thence interteineth ye Gles or Glesbrooke water, increased wyth sundrye arms whereof one commeth from Lodward, an other
from aboue Houghton, the thyrde from Hulton Parcke, and the fourth from Shakerley ; and beying all vinited neere vnto Leighe, the con-
fluence goeth to Holcroft, and aboue Holling greene into yº Swift Mersey. After this increase the saide streame in lyke sort runneth to
Rigston, & there admytteth the Bollein brooke water into his societie, which rising neere ye Chamber in Maxwell Forest goeth to Ridge,
Sutton, Maxfield, Bollington, Prestbyry, and Newton, where it taketh in a water coming from about Pot Chappell, which runneth from
thence by Adlington, Woodforde, Wymsley, Ryngey, and Ashley, there receyuing the Byrkin brooke that commeth from betwene Allerton
and Marchall, by Mawberly, and soone after the Marus or Mar, that cometh thereinto from Mar towne, by Rawstorne, and after these
confluences goeth on to Downham, and Ouer against Rixton beneth Crosforde bridge into the Mersey water, which proceeding on, admit-
teth not another that meeteth with all neere Lym before it go to Thelwall. Thence also it goeth by Bruche and so to Warrington, a little
beneath crossing a brooke that commeth from Par by Browsey, Bradley, and Sankey on the one side, and another on the other that
commeth thither from Gropenhall, and with these it runeth on to nether Walton, Acton Grange, and so to Penkith, where it interteineth
the Bolde, and soone after the Grundiche water on the other side, that passeth by Preston and Daresbyry. Finallye our Mersey goyng
by Moulton, it falleth into Lirepool Hauen, when it is past Rucorne. And thus much of the Mersey, comparable to the Wyuer, and of
no lesse fame then most ryuers of thys Islande.
“Beying past these two we come next of all to the Tarbocke water that falleth into the sea at Harbocke, without finding any motyll
we be past Wyrall, Out of Leirpoole hauen, and from the blacke rockes, that lye vpon the north point of the aforesayd Island. Then come
we to Alt mouth, whose fresh rysing not farre into the lande, commeth to Feston, and soone after receiuing another on the ryght hand,
that passeth into it by Aughton, it is increased no more before it come at the sea. Neyther finde I any other falles till I meete with the
mouth of the Yarrow and Duglasse, which haue their recourse to the sea in one chanell as I take it. .
“The Duglasse commeth from the west of Rauenspike hill, and ere long runneth by Andertonford to Worthington, & so (takyng in
two or three rylles by the waye) to Wigen, where it receyueth two waters in one chanel, of which one commeth in south from Bryn Parke,
the other from the north-east. Being past thys it receyueth one on the north side from Standishe, and another by south from Hollond,
and then goeth on toward Rufford Chappell, taking, the Taud with all, that discendeth from aboue Skelmersdale towne, and goeth thorow
Latham Parke, belonging vnto the Earle of Darby. It meeteth also on the same side with Merton meere water, in which meere is an
islande called Netholme, beside other, and when it is past the hanging bridge, it is not long ere it fall into the Yarrowe.
“The Yarrowe ryseth of two heades, whereof the second is called Bagen brooke, & making a confluence beneath Helbywood, it goeth
on to Burghe, Egleston, Crofton, and then ioyneth next of all with the Dugglasse, after which confluence the maine streame goeth forth to
Banke hall, Charleton, How, Hesket, and so into the sea. Lelande, wryting of ye Yarrow, saith thus: Into the Duglasse also runneth the
Yarrow, which commeth Wythin a myle or thereabout of Chorleton towne, that parteth Leland shire from Darby shire, Vnder the foote of
Chorle also I finde a ryll, named Ceorle, and about a myle and an half from thence a notable quarrey of stones wherof the inhabitants doe
make a great bost and price.
“The Rybell, a riuer verie rich of Salmon and Lampreie, dooth in manner inuiron Preston in Andernesse, and it riseth neere to Ribbes-
dale aboue Gisburne —
“From Penigents proud foot, as from my source I slide
That mountaine my proud syre, in height of all his pride,
Takes pleasure in my course, as in his first-borne Flood ;
And Ingleborow Hill of that Olympian Brood
With Pendle, of the North the highest hills that be,
Doe wistly me behold, and are beheld of me.”
DRAYTON's Polyolbion, 27th Song, p. 131.
“It goeth from thence to Sawley or Salley, Chatburne, Woodington, Clitherow castell, & beneath Mitton meeteth with the Odder,
which ryseth not farre from the cross of Grete in Yorkshire, and going thence to Shilburne, Newton, Radholme parke, and Stony hirst, it
falleth ere long into the Ribble water. From hence the Ribble hath not gone farre, but it meeteth with the Calder. Thys brooke ryseth
aboue Holme Church, goeth by Townley and Burneley (where it receiveth a trifeling rill), thence to Higham, and ere long crossing one
water that commeth from Wicoler, by Colne, and another by and by named Pidle brooke that runneth by Newechurch, in the Pidle : it
meeteth with ye Calder, which passeth forth to Padiam, & thence (receyuing a becke on the other side) it runneth on to Altham, and so
to Martholme, where the Henburne brooke doth ioyne with all, that goeth by Alkington chappell, Dunkinhalghe, Rishton, and so into ye
Calder as I haue sayde before. The Calder therefore being thus inlarged, runneth forth to Reade (where M. Nowell dwelleth), to Whalley,
and soone after into Ribell, that goeth from this confluence to Salisbury hal, Ribchester, Osbaston, Sambury, Keuerden, Law, Ribles
bridge, and then taketh in the Darwent, before it goeth by Pontwarth or Pentworth into the sea. The Darwent deuideth Leland shire
from Andernesse, and it ryseth by east aboue Darwent Chappell, and soone after vniting it selfe with the Blackeburne, & Rodlesworthe
water, it goeth thorowe Howghton Parke, by Howghton towne, to Walton hall, and so into the Ribell. As for the Sannocke brooke, it
ryseth somewhat aboue Longridge chappell, goeth to Broughton towne, Cotham, Lee hall, and so into Ribell.
“The Wire ryseth eight or ten miles from Garstan, out of an hill in Wiresdale, from whence it runneth by Shireshed chappell, and
then going by Wadland, Grenelaw Castle (which belongeth to the Erle of Darbie), Garstan, & Kyrkeland hall, it first receyueth the seconde
Calder, that commeth down by Edmersey chappell, then another chanel increased with sundrie waters, the first water is called Plympton
brooke. It riseth south of Gosner, and commeth by Crawforde hall, and eare long receyuing the Barton becke, it proceedeth forward till
it ioyneth with the Brooke rill that cometh from Bowland Forest by Claughton hall, where M. Brokehales doth lie, and so thorow Mersco
forrest. After this confluence the Plime or Plimton water meeteth with the Calder, and then with the Wire which passeth forth to
Michaell church and the Raw cliffes, and aboue Thorneton crosseth the Skipton, that goeth by Potton, then into the Wire rode, and
finally into the sea, according to his nature.
1 “Lelande speaketh of the Corne water aboute Manchester, but I knowe nothing of his course.” . [The Corn-brook.-H..]
..CHAP. XVI. Qſìje ??istory of £ancašijire, 255
“The Coker from its shortnesse deserueth no description. The next is Cowdar, which comming out of Wire dale (as I take it) is not
increased with any other waters, more then Coker. -
“But beyng past these twoo, I came to a notable ryuer called the Lune, or Loine, or (as the book of Statutes hath) Lonoire (Anno
13 Ric, II, c. cap. 19), and giueth name to Lancaster, Lonecaster, or Lunecaster, where much Romane monie is found and that of diuerse
stamps, whose course doth reast to be described as followeth :—"
“The Lune, saith M. More, of Catherine Hall, in Cambridge, of some commonly called the Loine, riseth at Crossehoe in Dent dale, in
the edge of Richmonde shire, out of three heades. From hence it goeth to Burborne chappell, where it taketh in another rill comming
from by east, then to Kyrby Lansdale, and aboue Whittenton crosseth a brooke comming from the Countie stone, by Burros, and soon
after beneath Tunstal and Gretey, which descending from about Ingelborrow hill passeth by Twyselton, Ingleton, Thorneton, Burton,
Wratton, & neare Thurlande castell toucheth finally with the Lune, which brauncheth and soone after wmiteth it selfe againe. After this
also it goeth on towarde New Parke, & receyueth the Wenny and the Hinburne both in One chanell, of which this riseth north of the
crosse of Grete, and going by Benthams and Robertes hill, aboue Wray taketh in the Rheburne that riseth north of Wulferagge. After
thys confluence also aboue New parke, the Lune maketh his gate by Aughton, Laughton, Skirton, Lancaster, Excliffe, Awcliffe, Stodday,
Orton, and so into the sea.
“The next fall is called the Docker, and peradventure the same that Lelande doth call the Kery [Keer], which is not far from Wharton
where the rich Kitson was born, it ryseth north of Docker towne, and going by Barwye hall, it is not increased before it come at the sea,
where it falleth into the Lune water at Lune Sands. Next of all we come to Bitham beck, which riseth not far from Bitham towne and
parke, in the hilles, where about are great numbers of goates kept and maintained, and by all likelihood resorteth in the end to Linsands.
Being past this we finde a forked arme of the sea called Kensandes : into the first of which diuers waters doe runne in one chanell, as it
were from foure principall heades, one of them comming from Grarrig hall, another from by west of Whinfielde, & ioyning with ye firste
on the east side of Skelmere parke. The third called Sprot or Sprota Tyseth at Sloddale, and coming downe by west of Skelmer parke,
so that these two brookes haue the aforesayde parke betweene them, and fall into the fourth east of Barneside, not very farre in Sunder.
The fourth or last, called Ken [Kent], cometh from Kentmeres side out of Ken moore, in a poole of a mile compasse very well stored with
fish, the head whereof, of all the baronie of Kendall, is in Westmorland, and going to Steuelop, it taketh in a rill from Chappelton Inges.
Then leaving Colnehed parke by east, it passeth by Barneside, to Kendall, Helston, Sigarthe, Siggeswyc, Leuenbridge, Milnethorpe, and so
into the sea. The other péece of ye forked arme, is called Winstar, ye head whereof is aboue Winstar chappell, and going downe almost
by Carpmaunsell, and Netherslake, it is not long eare it fall into the sea or sands; for all this coast, & a gulfe from the Ramside point to
the Mealenasse, is so pestered with sands, that it is almost incredible to see how they increase.
“Halling passed the Leuen, or Conysandes or Winander fall (for all is one), I come to the Lew which riseth at Lewicke chappell, &
falleth into the sea beside Plumpton. The Rawther descending out of lowe Furnesse hath two heades, whereof one cometh from Pennyton
the other by Ulverstone abbay, and ioyning both in one chanell, they hasten into the sea, whither all waters direct theyr voyage. Then
come we to another rill south-west of Aldingham, descending by Glaiston castell, and likewyse the fourth that ryseth neare Lyndell, and
running by Dawlton castell and Furnesse abbay, not farre from the Barow heade, it falleth into the sea ouer against Wauey and Wauey
chappell, except myne aduertisements misleade me.
“The Dodon commeth from the Shire stone hill bottome, & going by Blackhil, Southwake, S. Johns, Uffay parke, and Broughton, it
falleth into the salt water betweene Kyrby and Mallum castell, and thus are we now come vnto the Rauenglasse point,” where our
authority quits the rivers of Lancashire.
The increase of the population of Lancashire during the present century is unequalled by that of any
other county in the kingdom. The West Riding of Yorkshire makes the nearest approximation to it; but
while in that riding the increase in the three decennial periods, from 1801 to 1811, from 1811 to 1821, and
from 1821 to 1831, was 16, 22, and 22 per cent ; in Lancashire the increase in the same periods was 23, 27,
and 27 per cent, thereby swelling the total number of souls in this county from 672,565 in 1801, to
1,335,600 in 1831. While the value of property assessable to the county rate in most of the other counties
of the kingdom has decreased within the last fourteen years, it has increased in Lancashire in the proportion
of 25 per cent—namely, from the sum of £3,166,009, the amount in 1815, to £4,214,634, the amount in 1829.
After an interval of thirty years since 1831, Lancashire still maintains its Supremacy in point of popula-
tion over all the English counties, as the following figures will show, taken from the Official Census for 1861 —
1841. 1851. 1861.
Lancashire . 1,667,054 2,031,236 2,429,440
Middlesex 1,576,636 1,886,576 2,206,485
Yorkshire 1,592,059 1,797,995 2,033,610
The increase in the ten years . . . . 1831 to 1841. 1841 to 1851. 1851 to 1861.
Lancashire . . . . . . . . . 330,200, 364, 182 398,204
Middlesex . . . . . . . . . 218,306 309,940 319,909
Yorkshire . . . . . . . . . 220,093 205,936 235,615
For Bow men neere our best, and euer have been deem'd
So loyall, that the guard of our preceding Kings,
Of them did most consist ; but yet 'mongst all these things
Euen almost euer since the English Crowne was set
Vpon the lawfull head of our Plantagenet,
In honor, next the first, our Dukedome was allow’d,
And alwayes with the greatest reuenues was endow'd :
And after when it hapt, France conquering Edward's blood
Diuided in it selfe, here for the Garland stood ;
The right Lancastrian Line, it from York's Issue bare ;
The red rose, our braue Badge, which in their Helmets Ware
In many a bloody field, at many a doubtfull fight
* In celebrating the fame of the Lune, the Shropshire poet, in his
“Faerie Land,” pronounces a high, though somewhat incongruous,
Poetic eulogium upon the fine cattle, the deep-mouthed hounds, the
gallant bowmen, and the princely duchy of Lancashire:—
“Besides in all this Isle, there no such Cattell be,
For largenesse, Horne, and Haire, as these of Lancashire ;
So that from every part of England farre and neere,
Men haunt her Marts for Store, as from her race to breed.
And for the third, wherein she doth all Shires exceed,
Be those great race of Hounds, the deepest mouth’d of all
The other of this kind which we our hunters call,
Which from their bellowing throats woon a sent so roare g g e * † – 32
That you would surely think e, that * firme earth they tore Againt the House of Yorke, which bare for theirs the White,
With their wide yawning chaps, or rent the Clouds in sunder, * The general average increase in England and Wales in these
As though by their lowd crie they meant to mocke the thunder, three periods is 14%, 17%, and 16 per cent ; and somewhat less in
Besides, her Natiues have been anciently esteem’d, Scotland—namely, 13, 16, and 13 per cent.
256 The history of Lancashire. CHAP. XVI.
The early period of the ecclesiastical history of Lancashire is involved in considerable uncertainty, and
even the diocese to which this county appertained is not well defined, till the time of the Reformation,
when Henry VIII, in the 33d year of his reign (1541), in order to make some restitution for the spoliation he
had committed upon the property of the church, erected Chester into a distinct bishopric. From this time the
whole county of Lancaster was, till 1847, included in the diocese of Chester—the southern part in the
archdeaconry of Chester and the northern part in the archdeaconry of Richmond. These divisions are more
ancient than the Valor of Pope Nicholas TV., for in that important ecclesiastical document we find all the
Lancashire churches which then existed under one or other of these divisions. Before the Reformation,
the diocese of Lichfield, Coventry, and Chester, by each of which names the bishopric was alternately
distinguished, according to the city wherein the bishop dwelt," included Staffordshire, Derbyshire, part of
Shropshire, and that part of Warwickshire which is not subject to the bishopric of Worcester. “Now,” say
the authorities, “the diocese of Chester contains Cheshire, part of Denbighshire, and part of Flintshire, all
Richmondshire, and part of Lancashire to the river Ribble.” This definition, however, is not quite accurate,
the whole of Lancashire being till 1847 in the diocese of Chester, as well the northern part, which is within
Richmondshire, as the southern part, which in the Domesday Survey is called “Inter Ripam et Mersham.”
Parts of the counties of York, Westmorland, and Cumberland, were also included in this diocese.
When in 1847 the diocese of Manchester was carved out of that of Chester, there remained within the
older diocese of Chester, in the county palatine of Lancaster, the whole of the deanery of Warrington except
the parish of Leigh. The diocese of Chester includes the archdeaconries of Chester and Liverpool; and the
latter only includes the Lancashire part of the diocese, which comprises six rural deaneries. The archdeacon of
Liverpool is the Ven. John Jones, M.A., 1855, who is also rural dean of Liverpool (North). The Rev. John
Stewart, M.A., is rural dean of Liverpool (South), 1865. The other rural deans in the diocese of Chester
within the county of Lancaster are:—Prescot, Rev. Ellis Ashton, B.D. (1850); North Meols, the Rev. Charles
Hesketh, M.A. (1850); Winwick, the Rev. Frank G. Hopwood, M.A. (1865); and Wigan, the Hon. and Rev.
G. T. O. Bridgeman, M.A. (1865). In 1847 the bishopric of Manchester was created, which may be roughly
stated as including the whole of Lancashire except the West Derby Hundred, which remains (except the
parish of Leigh) in the diocese of Chester, and the Furness and Cartmel districts, north of the Sands, which
are united to the diocese of Carlisle. -
It was the practice of the popes in the early period of our history to make contributions towards the
expenses of the holy wars, and Pope Nicholas IV., imitating the example of Pope Innocent, granted the
tenths of the ecclesiastical benefices in England to Edward I. for six years, to defray the expenses of his
expedition to the Holy Land. That this revenue might be collected to its full value, a taxation, by the
king's precept, was begun in the year 1288, and finished as to the province of Canterbury in 1291, and as
to that of York in 1292. - -
After the dissolution of the monasteries, Henry VIII., with the consent of his parliament, directed that the lands and manors
of the monasteries and priories in Lancashire should be administered by the chancellor, officers, and ministers of the county pala-
tine and duchy of Lancashire. This enactment, so characteristic of the age, was expressed in the following comprehensive terms —
“Be it enacted, that all and singulier the liberties, fraunchises, privileges, and temporall jurisdiction, whiche the said late owners
of the scites, circuites, precinctes, manors, and other pmisses of the late Monastery of Furnes, of the late Monasteries and Priories
of Cartemele, Conyngshed, Burscough, and Holland, lawfully had, used, and exercised by them selfis or by their officers or ministres,
shalbe by vertue of this acte revived and be really and actually in the Kinges Highnes, his heires, ministres of the said Countie
Palatyne and Duchy of Lancastre; and that the stewards, bailiffes, officers, and Ministres of the County Palatine and Duchy of
Lancast. shalbe compelled to accompt for the same bifore the said chauncelour, officer, and ministres of the said Countie Palantyne
and Duchie of Lancastre, as other officers and accomptauntis in the Court of the said Duchie heretofore have doom or owe to doo.”
In the following year the bishopric of Chester was instituted, and the following is
A CATALOGUE OF THE BISHOPS OF CHESTER
• SINCE 33 HENRY VIII. 1541.
Which Bishopric was erected on the Dissolution of the Monasteries.
1541 John Bird, D.D. 1660 Brian Walton, D.D. 1752 Edmund Keene, D.D.
1554 George Coates, D.D. 1661 Henry Ferne, D.D. 1771 William Markham, LL.D.
1556 Cuthbert Scot, D.D. 1662 George Hall, D.D. 1776 Beilby Porteus, D.D.
1561 William Downeham, D.D. 1668 John Wilkins, D.D. 1787 William Cleaver, D.D.
1579 William Chaderton, D.D. 1672-3 John Pearson, D.D. 1800 Henry William Majendie, D.D.
1595 Hugh Bellot, D.D. 1686 Thomas Cartwright, D.D. 1810 Bowyer Edward Sparke, D.D.
1597 Richard Vaughan, D.D. 1689 Nicholas Stratford, S.T.P. 1812 George Henry Law, D.D.
1604 George Lloyd, D.D. 1707-8 Sir William Dawes, Bart., D.D. 1824 Chas. Jas. Bloomfield, D.D.
1616 Thomas Moreton, D.D. 1714 Francis Gastrell, D.D. 1828 John Bird Summer, D.D.
1619 John Bridgeman, D.D. 1726 Samuel Peploe, S.T.P. 1848 John Graham, D.D.
1865 William Jacobson, D.D.
* The bishopric of Lichfield, to which was added Coventry in his immediate successor, not approving of the change, removed the
the time of Henry I., was erected by Peda, the son of Penda, king chair from Chester to Coventry, and there held his seat while he
of South Mercia. During the reign of William the Conqueror, lived; and thence the diocese of the bishopric of Lichfield came to
Peter, bishop of this see, translated his chair to Chester, the capital be called Lichfield, Coventry, and Chester. In 1542 Lichfield and
of the Mercian kings, and there held it for a season, from which the Coventry became united, and Chester became an independent
See obtained the name of the bishopric of Chester. But Robert, bishopric.
CHAP, XVI. Oſije #istorm ºf Lancašijire. 257
Dr. Bird, the first bishop, anxious, as he alleges, to execute his office and duty in planting virtue and suppressing vicious living
in Manchester and its populous neighbourhood, as well as for the maintenance Of hospitality, petitioned the king, his patron, that
he might be made warden of Manchester, on allowing an annual pension to the incumbent warden." These claims, though not
admitted by Henry VIII., were granted by his daughter Elizabeth to Dr. Chaderton, whe held the wardenship of Manchester in
commendam to his bishopric.” g * e g & g
In the early periods of our history it was more the practice than it has been in modern times to impose exclusive taxes upon
the clergy to alleviate the burdens of their secular fellow-subjects, and hence we find in the year 1608, when insurrections prevailed
amongst the people, to prevent the country from being depopulated by letting land go out of tillage into pasturage, a rate was
imposed by George (Lloyd), bishop of Chester, upon his clergy in the counties of Lancaster and Chester, of which impost the
following is a copy, so far as relates to this county —
“Archid. Decanatus A Rayte imposed by me George Bushoppe of Chest Vpon the Clergie within the Countye of
CESTRIE in Com. LANCASTRIE ! Chesshyre e Lancashyre within the Dyoces of Chestr, By vertue of lres from the lordes grace of
Yorke grounded vpon + from the lordes and otheres of his mates most honorable privye counsell for the fyndinge of horses Armes
e other furniture, the xxviiith of October 1608.
* g Blackburne Decanatus in com. Lancastria.
Warrington Decanatus in Com. Lancastr.
Mr. Massye, pson of Wigan—a light horse furnished. *. . of º: ! a corslett furnished.
* * t —-a li * ished r. Urmerodd, Vicar O alley
Mr. Mollineuxe, pson of Walton—a light horse furnished. g *
Mr. Turner, pson of Sephton—a light horse furnished. Amonderness Decanatus Archid. Richm. &
sº acoustºmimed º.º. ; **
T. 5 g - & &
Mr. Hallsall, pson of Hallsall * & Mr. Norcrosse, vicar of Ribchestr | a musket furnished.
e 2 a petronill furnished. - º,
Mr. Frenche, pson of North Meales Mr. Whyt, vicar of Poulton e a musket furnished
Mr. Ambrose, vicar of Ormskirke a caliver furnished Mr. Greenacres, vicar of Kirkham e
Mr. Hopwood, vicar of Childwall e Mr. Aynsworth, vicar of Garstange a muskett
Mr. Lowe, vicar of Leighe g * ; c. Mr. Woolfenden, vicar of Stt Mychaells vpon Wyer furnished.
2. g sº a caliver furnished. *
Mr. Hankinson, vicar of Hayton Mr. Calvert, vicar of Cockerham a caliver furnished
Mr. Ryder, pson of Winwicke . ... a light horse furnished. Mr. Parker, vicar of Chippin . ſº
Manchester Decanatus in Com. Lancastria. Mr. Fish º º Richm. in Com. º: ished
Mr. Langley, pson of Prestwitche º anni r. FISne, pson of Bentham g a petronel turnished.
i. W. pson of Burye | a light horse furnished. sº i. pson of * iº ... a musket furnished.
Mr. Ashton, pson of Middleton ... a petronill furnished. Nº. i. * Year . . am a caliver furnished.
Mr. Parker, pson of Ashton Vnderlyne ... a petronill furnished. r. Burrowe, vicar of Melunge . .
Mr. Sh 2 f Radclyffe, Č Mr. Waterhouse, vicar of Londisdaile ket furnished
r. Shawe, pson of rºadcylie, a musket furnished. Mr. Hampton, vicar of Sedbrighe 3, IlliSRéti Tūl DiSileſt.
Mr. Whitle, vicar of Hayles - . pUOn, o
Mr. Warden e fellowes of Manchestr College, a petronill furnished. Fournes Decanatus Archid. Richm. in com. pdict.
iº g Mr. Lyndoe, vicar of Vrswicke
tº Leylande Decatus in com pdict. Mr. Hey, vicar of Penington a musket furnished.
Mr. Leighe, pson of Standishe | a petronill furnished. Mr. Gardner, vicar of Dalton tº
Mr. º pSOn * Mr. Gilpin, pson of Aldingham . ... a corselett furnished.
Mr. Benet, pson of Brindle { 7 7
Mr. Comie, vicar of Croston, € a corslett furnished. GEORGE CESTRIENSIS.
Mr. Brere, vicar of Leylonde (Harl. MSS.)
In 1830, returns were made from which it appears that the date of the earliest wills in the Consistory Court of the chancellor
at Chester is 1521; in the rural dean’s court, 1602; and in the commissary's court at Richmond and Lancaster, 1500; and that
they extend to the present time with some chasms, principally previous to the year 1600. In the years 1826, 1827, 1828, the
number of wills proved and letters of administration granted, in the diocese of Chester, amounted–In the Consistory Court at
Chester, in 1826, to 1722; in 1827, to 1689; in 1828, to 1805. In the Rural Dean's Court at Chester, in 1826, to 246 ; in 1827, to
235; in 1828, to 124,-the rural dean's jurisdiction having been inhibited during part of the year 1828. In the Commissary's
Courts at Richmond and Lancaster, in 1826, to 475 ; in 1827, to 472; and in 1828, to 472.
At the end of the year 1819, a sort of demi-official return was published of the “Catholic Chapels, with the number of their
respective congregations in the county of Lancaster,” of which the following is an epitome —
Number of Chapels. Mumber in Congregations.
In the Hundred of West Derby e * § * * 32 º º g 33,200
Hundred of Salford . & e e º e 5 g * * 15,880
Hundred of Blackburn . & * º * * 10 g & e 4,500 °
Hundred of Leyland . sº 4. º gº g 9 g g 6,000
Hundred of Amounderness sº & * º sº 16 e e e 12,650
Hundred of Lonsdale . e & * * * 5 tº e * I,270
Total . tº & & 77 * 73,500
“A List of Dissenting Chapels in Lancashire, with the names of their respective Ministers,” was prepared in the year 1823, by
two of the clergy of the Independent denomination, and the following is a summary of that return —Number of chapels in Lan-
cashire belonging to the Independents, 68; Baptists, 27; Unitarians, 32; Scotch Kirk, 4; Scotch Presbyterians, 3; Calvinistic
Methodists, #5; Welsh do., 2.; Welsh Independents, 1 ; Welsh Baptists, 1 ; Sandemanian Baptists, 1.
The following is a list of the number of members belonging to the society of Wesleyan Methodists in the respective circuits in
the county of Lancaster, derived from the minutes of their conference published in 1832 —In Manchester and Salford, 6476; Liver-
pool, 4065; Warrington, 900; Rochdale, 1547; Bacup, 768; Haslingden, 507; Wigan, 352; Leigh, 280; Ormskirk, etc., 203;
Preston, 873; Garstang, 303; Lancaster, 404; Ashton-under-Lyne, 1103; Oldham, 891; Blackburn, 674; Bury, 700; Bolton,
1549; Burnley, 843; Colne, 868; parts of some circuits the heads of which are in other counties, 700—making an aggregate of
23,306 members in this society, which, taken in the proportion as one is to three of their congregations, will yield a total of 69,918
persons who attend divine service in the Methodist chapels. The number of chapels amounts to about 180 in the county of Lancaster.
Besides these, there is a very considerable number of persons of other religious denominations. The followers of George Fox, who
commenced his public ministry at Manchester, in this county, in the year 1648, are a tolerably numerous and highly respectable
community. -
1 Harl. MSS. cod. 604. * Strype's Annals, vol. i. p. 552. * The great Catholic college of Stonyhurst is in this hundred.
2 L
258 § Qſìje 39tstory of 3Lancashire. CHAP. XVI.
DLACES OF RELIGIOUS WORSHIP IN LAN CASHIRE.
One part of the official census of 1851 was prepared under the direction of the Registrar-General by Mr.
Horace Mann, and printed separately in an octavo form in 1853. It consists of a report and tables, showing
the numbers of places of religious worship of the various denominations, and the numbers of sittings they
contained at the time, with other particulars which we need not specify, as those already named are all that
we propose to notice in this work. In his report Mr. Mann states that there are in England and Wales 35
different religious communities or sects—27 native and indigenous, 9 foreign. Besides these, there are many
isolated congregations of religious worshippers, adopting various appellations; but it does not appear that any
of them is sufficiently numerous and consolidated to be called a “sect.” The following arrangement (which
has been adhered to in the table) shows these communities or sects, under certain obvious considerable and
minor classes, in the order of historical formation :-
PROTESTANT CHURCHES.
BRITISH.
Church of England and Ireland.
Scottish Presbyterians —
Church of Scotland (its Lancashire Presbytery is called that of Liverpool and Manchester); United Presbyterian Synod;
Presbyterian Church in England (exclusive of Unitarians).
Independents or Congregationalists.
Baptists —
General (Unitarian); Particular; Seventh Day; Scotch ; New Connection General (Trinitarian).
Society of Friends (or Quakers).
Unitarians. -
Moravians, or United Brethren.
Wesleyan Methodists (John Wesley):—
Original Connection (Wesleyans); New Connection (Kilhamites); Primitive Methodists; Bible Christians (or Bryanites);
Wesleyan Association ; Independent Methodists; Wesleyan Reformers.
Calvinistic Methodists (George Whitfield):-
Welsh Calvinistic Methodists; Countess of Huntingdon's Connection.
Sandemanians, or Glassites.
New Church (Swedenborgians).
Brethren.
FOREIGN. -
Lutherans. Reformed Church of the Netherlands.
German Protestant Reformers. French Protestants.
- OTHER CHRISTIAN CHURCHES.
Roman Catholics. Italian Reformers.
Greek Church. Catholic and Apostolic Church.
German Catholics, JEW Latter-day Saints, or Mormons.
S.
Mr. Mann classes “Isolated Congregations” (not connected with any particular sect) in five groups—1. Those in which
members of other sects white in worship. 2. Those based on peculiar doctrines (Universalists, Millennarians, Predestinarians, etc.)
3. Unsectarian (Christians, New Christians, Christ's Disciples, Free Gospel Christians, etc.) 4. Where in the returns the
sect is not particularised (as Protestant Dissenters, Dissenters, Protestant Christians, etc.) And 5. Missionary congregations.
Beyond these there still remains a residue of congregations difficult to classify (as Free Church, Inghamites, Christian Israelites,
Southcottians, etc.)
The census of 1861 did not include any summary of the religious denominations. That of 1851 is
therefore the latest official summary of the kind, and the following are its results as to Lancashire —
Denomination. Nº. Of No. of Sittings.
1. Church of England e ſe * & g 529 383,466
2. Church of Scotland * ſº & t & 5 4,510
3. Presbyterian Church in England e * * 12 9,090
4. United Presbyterian Church e * º º 5 3,115
5. Reformed Irish Presbyterians e t * e 1. 120
6. Independents tº * & * tº & 170 80,072
7. Baptists (particular 70, undefined 21) . & te 100 34,068
8. Society of Friends (“Quakers”) . t iº & 27 8,264
9. Unitarians ſº we g * g g 35 12,384
10. Moravians e g º ë * e 2 1,084
11. Wesleyan Methodists e * ſº * tº 300 107,983
12. New Connection do. e * te iº * 27 II,569
, 13. Primitive do. * * © is e 107 25,812
14. Wesleyan Association do. t * * & 81 25,555
15. Independent do. g º e g 1. 30
16. Wesleyan Reformers & e * ë g 4. 900
17. Welsh Calvinistic Methodists e o tº & 8 5,141
18. Lady Huntingdon's Connection . * e * II. 4,998
19. New Church (Swedenborgians) . te * g 21 5,544
20. Brethren . * ſº g º $ g 5 970
21. Isolated Congregations . &_ e * g 36 7,466
22. Roman Catholics g {e g & 114 55,610
23. Latter-day Saints e & § º s 15 1,379
24. Jews & • te º g g º 7 1,138
CHAP, XVIH, Ciſt £igturn ºf £antagjire. 259
CHAPTER XVII.
Lancashire Hundreds: at the time of the Conquest—Mr. Whitaker on the Old Hundreds—Newton and Warrington
Hundreds merged in the West Derby Hundred—Hundreds synonymous with Wapentakes—Institution of
Hundreds: made subservient to the Security of the Persons and Property of the Subject by King Alfred—
System of Government, Ecclesiastical and Civil—Statute of Winton—Enumeration of the Present Hundreds of
Lancashire—Order of their Arrangement in this History—“Representation of the People Act, 1867 °—Area
and Population of County Divisions and Boroughs—The New Lancashire Boroughs—Changes made by the Act
in the Parliamentary Representation of Lancashire—Salford Hundred—Contrast between this Hundred at the
Time of the Domesday Survey and at the Present Time—Situation and Dimensions of this Hundred—Parishes
and Townships of Salford Hundred arranged in Divisions. -
3ANCASHIRE, in its southern part, designated in the Domesday Survey “INTER RIPA &
} MERSHAM,” was divided into six hundreds at the time of the Norman Conquest—namely,
§ Derbei, Neweton, Walintone, Blackebvrn, Salford, and Lailand Hvndrets." To the north of
the Ribble were Agemyndrenesse, Lanesdale, and Hovgwn.
Mr. Whitaker, in his History of Manchester, thus treats of the old hundreds:—
“The hundreds of the Saxons were exactly the same with the cantrefs of the Britons. The latter consisted
of a hundred townships. And the former were composed of ten tythings. These were always considerable districts, and exist to this
day the great divisions of our counties. Each of them contained a hundred free-masters of families, or, in other words, a hundred
superiors of townships. And those of South Lancashire, which were six before the Conquest, were only three at first—Blackburne,
Derby, and Salford. Newton, Warrington, and Layland, which are mentioned equally in the Domesday Survey, appear equally,
from their smallness, especially the two first, to have been merely additions to the original number. And from a comparative view
of the nature and extent of all, it is plain that Layland was taken out of Blackburne hundred, and Warrington and Newton out of
Derby. These were all denominated from the towns or villages which were constituted the heads of their respective centuries. And
those of Salford, Warrington, and Newton, Blackburne, Derby, and Layland were so constituted, because they belonged to the
crown. All of them but Newton continued in its possession as late as the reign of the Confessor. All of them had been retained
by the crown on the general partition of the country, the appointed demesnes of the royalty. And the town of Salford has, for this
reason, been ever independent of the lord of Manchester, and continues to the present time annexed to the regalities of the duchy.
The whole compass of South Lancashire, which, through all the period of the Britons, probably has contained only two cantrefs,
Linuis and another, now enclosed thirty tythings, thirty manours, and three hundred townships. The division of Salford, the only
one of its three hundreds that has not been dismembered, had just ten manors, ten tythings, and a hundred townships within its
present limits. And the custom, which is retained amongst us to this day, of making the hundred responsible for robberies com-
mitted between sun and sun, had its commencement at this period, and was a natural appendage of the Saxon system of tythings.”
There are evidently no sufficient data to determine into how many hundreds South Lancashire was
divided in the Roman period, and still less in the time of the aborigines; but it is perfectly clear that in the
Saxon period it consisted of six hundreds, and that subsequently the hundreds of Newton and Warrington
merged in that of West Derby. Henry, a monk of Malmesbury, speaking of the shires, says Lancashire had
only five small shires—West Derbyshire, Salfordshire, Blackburnshire, Leylandshire, and the territory of
Lancaster, which, by a common word, are called hundreds.” Hundreds, though not always corresponding, as
in Lancashire, with the ancient shires, are synonymous with wapentakes, which, according to Higden, take
the name from the chief officer of a hundred towns resuming the arms of the vassals on the lord’s arrival
amongst them.”
“In some places (and particularly in the northern counties) hundreds are sometimes called Wapentakes, the reason of which
denomination is distinctly mentioned in the laws of Edward the Confessor%—viz, when a person received the government of a
Wapentake at the appointed time and usual place, the elder sort met him, and, when he was got off his horse, rose up to him ; then
he held up his spear and took security of all present according to custom ; whoever came touched his spear with theirs, and by this
touching of armour were confirmed in one common interest ; and thus from waspnu, weapons, and tac, a touch, or taccare, to confirm,
they were called Wapentakes.”
sº
As late as the fourteenth century the hundred of Salford was called a Wapentake : this appears from the
following rent-roll of the earl of Lancaster in Salford town and hundred, 10 Edw. II. (1316-17), extracted
from “A Survey of Lonsdale,” 25 Edw. I. (1296-7), in the Tower of London —" -
1 The term hundreds has been variously derived, either from their * Lel. Coll. tom. ii. p. 397.
containing a hundred vills (portions of ground upon each of which * Ran. Higden, Polychron, lib. i. de Legibus, edit. Gale, p. 202.
a family was located), from their finding a hundred FidejuSSores to * Edit. Wheloc. p. 45.
the king's peace, from their consisting of a hundred hides of land, * Thoresby Ducat. Leodiens. p. 81.
or from their sending a hundred men to the wars. 6 Harl. MSS. cod. 2085, fo. 528 b.

260 (The fligtorg of £antagijire. CHAP. XVII.
ExTENT [i.e. Survey] of the LANDs of the EARL in the WAPENTAKE of LONSDALE, Co. Lanc., 25 Edw. I. (1296-7) on the death
of Edmund, Earl of Lancaster, etc.”—Salford Will in the aforesaid account by the Inquisition of 10 Edw. II. (1816-17).
Rent of assise of the Will of Salford, with the rent of one toft near the bridge . tº tº e #6 14, 9
Farm of the Water-mill there . e e & ſº º * & & ë 3 0 0
Toll, Stallage of the market and fair of the same place g g e g © º 2 6 7%
Small places [or plots] there . e is . g g & & & & g 0 13 1;
Pleas and perquisites of the Courts . e o º * º e & ſº 0 2 ()
SALFORD WAPENTAKE : Total . g 12 16 6+
Rent of assise of Burghton [Broughton] 2 8 ()
Do. of Ordesale & in 1 2 0
Do. of Cadeuelheued [Cadishead] 0 4 0
Do. of Scoresworth [Shoresworth] 0 2 0
Do. of Tonge . g º 0 4 0
Farm of the land of Augustine de Barton I 6 ()
Do. of Wm. de Radcliffe . g te 0 17 8
Do. of Roger de Middleton, in Chetham . † * e * § * 0 13 4.
Do. of Alice de Prestwich, in Prestwich, Holonet, and Sholesworth [?]Hollinheadand Shoresworth] 1 6 8
Do. of Roger Pilkington, in Rovington . * º º § tº º 0 10 0
Do. of Geoffrey de Hulme, in Hulme () 5 0
Do. of Alice Prestwich, in Penulbery g 0 10 0
Do. of Wm. Fitz-Roger, in Radish [Reddish] . 0 6 ()
Do. of Rd. Pilkinton, in Chorleton ſcum-Hardy] 1 0 ()
Do. of Henry de Trafford tº tº g ſº 0 5 0
Do. of Rd. de Byrom & º e e g e º 1 4 0
T}o. of Hugh Meuil [Menil], in Werkslegh [Worsley] and Hulton e | 0 0
Do. of William de Bradshagh, in Blackrod, yearly g * te 1 0 0
Do. of the Will of Clifton º º * * o * 0 8 0
Sak-Fee of the land of Richd. Fitz-Roger & 0 10 0
Do. half the Will of Flixton 0 || 6
Rent of the land of John de la Ware 4 3 6
Do. Jordan de Crompton * g 0 1 1
Farm of the Serjeanty of the Bailiff for Bailiwick] there 16 0 ()
Pleas and perquisites of the Court of the Wapentake there ſº º g 4 7 3
Total , º £40 5 0
In 1 John (1199), the Wapentake of Salford was held by Elias Fitz-Robert, by serjeanty.—(Rot. Chartar, 1 John, m. 5.)
Rich. de Hilton held the Wapentake of Salford in serjeanty, at the will of our lord the king, in the time of Edward III., as
appears from the Testa de Nevill, p. 371; and at a much later date Hollinworth, in his MS., speaks of “the Wapentake of Salford,
where the pole is elevated 53° 24′.”
The origin of the hundred divisions has been usually traced to the time of Alfred ; but probably they
may claim a higher antiquity, and were derived from the Franks or the Germans. They were at least by his
order more accurately defined than in the British and Roman periods, and by him they were made subservient
to the better administration of the laws, and the preservation of the lives and property of the people. The
government, ecclesiastical and civil, now formed itself into a consistent and connected whole, to the perfection
of which these divisions essentially administered.
“The ecclesiastical estate,” says Sir Henry Spelman, “was first divided into provinces, every province into many bishopricks,
every bishoprick into many archdeaconries, every archdeaconry into divers deaneries, and every deanery into many parishes. And
all these committed to their several governors; parsons, deans, archdeacons, bishops, and archbishops; who, as subordinate one to
the other, did not only execute the charge of their several portions, but were accountant also for the same to their superiors. The
temporal government was likewise divided into satrapies or dukedoms, which contained in them divers counties; the county divers
lathes or trithings; every trithing divers hundreds, or wapentakes; every hundred divers towns or lordships, shortly after called
baronies; and the government of all these was committed to their several heads—viz. towns or manors to the lords thereof, whom
the Saxons called theings, after barons; hundreds to the lords of hundreds; trithings or lathes to their trithing-greves ; counties to
their earls or aldermen ; and large satrapies to their dukes, or chief princes, all which had subordinate authority one under the
other, and did within the precinct of their own territories minister justice unto their subjects.”
In this systematic concatenation none contributed more to the well-being of Society than the government
of the hundred; and, as late as the time of Edward I., an act was passed, called the statute of Winton, which,
amongst a number of other excellent provisions of police, enacts that every hundred shall be answerable for
the robberies and other offences committed within its jurisdiction; thus giving to every citizen an interest in
the person and property of his neighbour. In later times the hundred courts, which, in their early institution,
were at once ecclesiastical, civil, and criminal, have sunk into courts of inferior jurisdiction; but they have
still their use, and, under a reformed system of laws, are made highly conducive to the public welfare. The
hundreds of Lancashire now stand thus:–
. SAILFORD HUNDRED
WEST DERBY HIUNDRED
. LEYLAND HUNDRED
. BLACKBURN HUNDRED
AMOUNDERNESS HUNDRED
North of Ribble.
LONSDALE HUNDRED, S. and N. of the Sands }
* As Edmund Crouchback, earl of Lancaster, died abroad at Pentecost (May) 1266, all regnalyears referring to him should be of Edward I.-H.
Between Ribble and Mersey.
i
chap. xvii. Ǻr 3% istory of £antasijire. 26]
REPRESENTATION OF THE PEOPLE ACT, 1867.
Since the general history of the county was closed, the “Act further to amend the Law relating to the
Representation of the People in England and Wales” has been passed [August 15, 1867]; and a brief sum-
mary of such of its provisions as relate to the county of Lancaster, and to the city and boroughs within the
county, is consequently appended. The following are the principal clauses as to the Franchise:-
3. Every man shall, in and after 1868, be entitled to be registered as a voter, and, when registered to vote for a member or
members to serve in Parliament for a borough, who is qualified as follows (that is to say) —1, is of full age, and not subject to any
legal incapacity; and (2) is on the last day of July in any year, and has during the whole of the preceding twelve calendar months,
been, an inhabitant occupier, as owner or tenant, of any dwelling-house within the borough ; and (3) has during the time of such
occupation been rated as an ordinary occupier in respect of the premises so occupied by him within the borough to all rates (if any)
made for the relief of the poor in respect of such premises; and (4) has before the 20th day of July in the same year bona fide paid
an equal amount in the pound to that payable by other ordinary occupiers in respect of all poor-rates that have become payable by
him in respect of the said premises up to the preceding 5th day of January: Provided that no man under this section be entitled to
be registered as a voter by reason of his being a joint occupier of any dwelling-house.
4. Every man shall, in and after 1868, be entitled to be registered as a voter, and, when registered, to vote [etc. as in clause 3];
and (2) as a lodger, has occupied in the same borough, separately and as sole tenant, for the twelve months preceding the last day
of July in any year, the same lodgings, such lodgings being part of one and the same dwelling-house, and of a clear yearly value, if
let unfurnished, often pounds or upwards; and (3) has resided in such lodgings during the twelve months immediately preceding the
last day of July, and has claimed to be registered as a voter at the next ensuing registration of voters.
5. Every man shall, in and after 1868, be entitled to be registered as a voter, and, when registered, to vote for a member or
members to serve in Parliament for a county, who is qualified as follows (that is to say) —l, is of full age, and not subject to any
legal incapacity, and is seised at law or in equity of any lands or tenements of freehold, copyhold, or any other tenure whatever, for
his own life, or for the life of another, or for any lives whatsoever, or for any larger estate of the clear yearly value of not less than
£5 over and above all rents and charges payable out of or in respect of the same, or who is entitled, either as lessee or assignee, to
any lands or tenements of freehold or of any other tenure whatever, for the unexpired residue, whatever it may be, of any term
originally created for a period of not less than 60 years (whether determinable on a life or lives or not), of the clear yearly value of
not less than £5 over and above all rents and charges payable out of, or in respect of, the same : Provided that no person shall be
registered as a voter under this section unless he has complied with the provisions of the 26th section of the Act of the second year
of the reign of his majesty William IV. cap. 45.
6. Every man shall, in and after 1868, be entitled to be registered [etc. as in clause 5]:–1, is of full age, and not subject to
any legal incapacity; and (2) is, on the last day of July in any year, and has during the twelve months immediately preceding, been
the occupier, as owner and tenant, of lands or tenements within the county of the rateable value of £12 or upwards; and (3) has,
during the time of such occupation, been rated in respect to the premises so occupied by him to all rates, if any, made for the relief
of the poor in respect of the said premises; and (4) has, before the 20th day of July in the same year, paid all poor-rates that have
become payable by him in respect of the said premises up to the preceding 5th day of January.
7. Where the owner is rated at the time of the passing of this act to the poor-rate in respect of a dwelling-house or other tene-
ment situate in a parish wholly or partly in a borough, instead of the occupier, his liability to be rated in any future poor-rate shall
cease, and the following enactments shall take effect with respect to rating in all boroughs:–1. After the passing of this act no
owner of any dwelling-house or other tenement situate in a parish either wholly or partly within a borough shall be rated to the
poor-rate instead of the occupier, except as hereinafter mentioned. 2. The full rateable value of every dwelling-house or other
separate tenement, and the full rate in the pound payable by the occupier, and the name of the occupier, shall be entered in the
rate-book. Where the dwelling-house or tenement shall be wholly let out in apartments or lodgings not separately rated, the owner
of such dwelling-house or tenement shall be rated in respect thereof to the poor-rate : Provided as follows:–1. That nothing in
this act contained shall affect any composition existing at the time of the passing of this act, so nevertheless that no such composition
shall remain in force beyond the 29th day of September next. 2. That nothing herein contained shall affect any rate made pre-
viously to the passing of this act, and the powers conferred by any subsisting act for the purpose of collecting and recovering a poor-
rate, shall remain and continue in force for the collection and recovery of any such rate or composition. 3. That where the occupier
under a tenancy subsisting at the time of the passing of this act of any dwelling-house or other tenement which has been let to him
free from rates, is rated and has paid rates in pursuance of this act, he may deduct from any rent due or accruing due from him, in
respect of the said dwelling-house or other tenement, any amount paid by him on account of the rates to which he may be rendered
liable by this act.
8. Where any occupier of a dwelling-house or other tenement (for which the owner, at the time of the passing of this act, is
rated, or is liable to be rated) would be entitled to be registered as an occupier in pursuance of this act, at the first registration of
parliamentary voters to be made after the year 1867, if he had been rated to the poor-rate for the whole of the required period, such
occupier shall, notwithstanding he may not have been rated prior to the 29th day of September 1867, as an ordinary occupier, be
entitled to be registered, subject to the following conditions —1. That he has been duly rated as an ordinary occupier to all poor-
rates in respect of the premises, after the liability of the owner to be rated to the poor-rate has ceased, under the provisions of this
act. 2. That he has, on or before the 20th day of July 1868, paid all poor-rates which have become payable by him as an
ordinary occupier in respect of the premises, up to the preceding 5th day of January.
9. At a contested election for any county or borough represented by three members, no person shall vote for more than two
candidates.
11. No elector who within six months before or during any election for any county or borough shall have been retained, hired,
or employed for all or any of the purposes of the election, for reward by or on behalf of any candidate at such election, as agent,
canvasser, clerk, messenger, or in other like employment, shall be entitled to vote at such election, and if he shall so vote he shall
be guilty of a misdemeanour.
12. The boroughs of Totness, Reigate, Yarmouth, and Lancaster, to cease to return members after the end of the present
arliament.
p 15. Persons reported guilty of bribery or treating in Lancaster to be disqualified as voters for the northern division of the
county of Lancaster, in respect of a qualification arising within the borough of Lancaster.
Part II. of the act relates to “the Distribution of Seats.”
17. Boroughs in schedule A (i.e. of less population than 10,000 in 1861) to return only one member each. [No Lancashire
borough in schedule A.]
18. From and after the end of this present parliament, the city of Manchester, and the boroughs of Liverpool, Birmingham,
and Leeds, shall each respectively return three members to serve in parliament.
19. Among the new boroughs in schedule B, to return one member each, are the following :-Burnley, in Lancashire, including
262 Çiſt ºigtorg of £attragüirº. CHAP. XVII,
(as temporary contents or boundaries) the townships of Burnley and Habergham Eaves. Staleybridge, in Lancashire and Cheshire,
including the municipal borough of Staleybridge ; the remaining portion of the township of Dukinfield; the township of Stayley;
and the district of the local Board of Health of Mossley.
21. From and after the end of the present parliament, the borough of Salford shall return two members instead of one to serve
in future parliaments.
23. From the end of the present parliament, each county named in the first column of schedule D shall be divided into the
divisions named in the second column, and (until otherwise directed by parliament) each of such divisions shall consist of the
hundreds, wapentakes, and places mentioned in the third column of the schedule. Two members to serve for each division in the
Second column, to be chosen as if each such division were a separate county. Schedule D includes among the counties to be divided–
NORTH LANCASHIRE, into two divisions—viz, North Lancashire, including (temporarily) the hundreds of Lonsdale, Amoun-
derness, and Leyland. North-East Lancashire, comprising the hundred of Blackburn. South LANCASHIRE, into two divisions—
viz. South-East Lancashire, comprising the hundred of Salford ; and South-West Lancashire, comprising the hundred of West Derby.
The places of election for these four divisions are to be:—For North Lancashire, Lancaster ; for North-East Lancashire, Blockburn,
for South-East Lancashire, Manchester ; and for South-West Lancashire, Jiverpool.
Part III. of the act contains the following clauses —
26. Different premises occupied in immediate succession by any person as owner or tenant during the twelve calendar months
next previous to the last day of July in any year, shall, unless and except as herein is otherwise provided, have the same effect in
qualifying such person to vote for a county or borough as a continued occupation of the same premises in the manner herein provided.
27. In a county where premises are in the joint occupation of several persons as owners or tenants, and the aggregate rateable
value of Such premises is such as would, if divided amongst the several occupiers, so far as the value is concerned, confer on each of
them a vote, then each of such joint occupiers shall, if otherwise qualified, and subject to the conditions of this act, be entitled to
be registered as a voter, and, when registered, to vote at an election for the county : Provided always that not more than two persons,
being such joint occupiers, shall be entitled to be registered in respect of such premises, unless they shall have derived the same
by descent, succession, marriage, marriage-settlement, or devise, or unless they shall be bomá ſide engaged as partners carrying on
trade or business thereon.
28. Where any poor-rate due on the fifth day of January in any year from an occupier, in respect of premises capable of
conferring the franchise for a borough, remains unpaid on the first day of June following, the overseers, whose duty it may be to
collect such rate shall, on or before the twentieth of the same month of June, unless such rate has previously been paid, or has
been duly demanded by a demand-note, to be served in like manner as the notice in this section referred to, give or cause to be
given a notice in the form set forth in schedule (E) to this act to every such occupier. The notice shall be deemed to be duly given
if delivered to the occupier or left at his last or usual place of abode, or with some person on the premises in respect of which the
rate is payable. Any overseer who shall wilfully withhold such notice, with intent to keep such occupier off the list or register of
voters for the said borough, shall be deemed guilty of a breach of duty in the execution of the registration acts.
30. The following regulations shall, in and after 1868, be observed with respect to the registration of voters:–1. The overseers
of every parish or township shall make out, or cause to be made out, a list of all persons on whom a right to vote for a county, in respect
of the occupation of premises, is conferred by this act, in the same manner, and subject to the same regulations, as nearly as circum-
stances admit, in and subject to which the overseers of parishes or townships in boroughs are required by the registration acts to make
out, or cause to be made out, a list of all persons entitled to vote for a member or members for a borough in respect of the occupation
of premises of a clear yearly value of not less than ten pounds. 2. The claim of every person desirous of being registered as a voter for
a member or members to serve for any borough in respect of the occupation of lodgings shall be in the form numbered 1 in schedule
(G), or to the like effect, and shall have annexed thereto a declaration in the form, and be certified in the manner in the said schedule
mentioned, or as near thereto as circumstances admit ; and every such claim shall, after the last day of July and on or before the
twenty-fifth day of August in any year, be delivered to the overseers of the parish in which such lodgings shall be situate, and the
particulars of such claim shall be duly published by such overseers on or before the first day of September next ensuing in a separate
list, according to the form numbered 2 in the said schedule (G). So much of section 18 of the act of the session of the sixth year of
the reign of Her present Majesty, chapter 18, as relates to the manner of publishing lists of claimants, and to the delivery of copies
thereof to persons requiring the same, shall apply to every such claim and list; and all the provisions of the 38th and 39th sections
of the same act, with respect to the proof of the claims of persons omitted from the lists of voters, and to objections thereto, and to
the hearing thereof, shall, so far as the same are applicable, apply to claims and objections, and to the hearing thereof, under this
Section.
The remaining clauses relate chiefly to election arrangements and the settlement of borough boundaries.
Clause 36 provides that “it shall not be lawful for any candidate, or any one on his behalf, at any election for any borough,
except the several boroughs of East Retford, Shoreham, Cricklade, Much Wenlock, and Aylesbury, to pay any money on account of
the conveyance of any voter to the poll, either to the voter himself or to any other person; and if any such candidate, or any person
on his behalf, shall pay any money on account of the conveyance of any voter to the poll, such payment shall be deemed to be an
illegal payment within the meaning of ‘The Corrupt Practices Prevention Act, 1854.’”
Clause 49 runs as follows:– “Any person, either directly or indirectly, corruptly paying any rate on behalf of any ratepayer
for the purpose of enabling him to be registered as a voter, thereby to influence his vote at any future election, and any candidate or
other person, either directly or indirectly, paying any rate on behalf of any voter for the purpose of inducing him to vote, or refrain
from voting, shall be guilty of bribery, and be punishable accordingly; and any person on whose behalf and with whose privity any
such payment as in this section is mentioned is made shall also be guilty of bribery, and punishable accordingly.”
The duties of the Boundary Commissioners are thus defined by clause 48 —“They shall, immediately after the passing of this
act, proceed, by themselves or by assistant-commissioners appointed by them, to inquire into the temporary boundaries of every
borough constituted by this act, with power to suggest such alterations therein as they may deem expedient; they shall also inquire
into the boundaries of every other borough in England and Wales, except such boroughs as are disfranchised by this act, with a
view to ascertain whether the boundaries should be enlarged, so as to include within the limits of the borough all premises which
ought, due regard being had to situation or other local circumstances, to be included therein for the purpose of conferring upon the
occupiers thereof, the parliamentary franchise for such borough ; they shall also inquire into the divisions of counties as constituted
by this act, and as to the places appointed for holding courts for the election of members for such divisions, with a view to ascertain
whether, having regard to the natural and legal divisions of each county, and the distribution of the population therein, any and
what alterations should be made in such divisions or places; and the said Commissioners shall, with all practicable despatch, report
to one of Her Majesty's principal Secretaries of State upon the Several matters in this section referred to them, and their report shall
Be laid before Parliament.”
The following is the general saving-clause —“56. The franchises conferred by this act shall be in addition to and not in sub-
stitution for any existing franchises; but so that no person shall be entitled to vote for the same place in respect of more than one
qualification; and, subject to the provisions of this act, all laws, customs, and enactments now in force conferring any right to vote,
or otherwise relating to the representation of the people in England and Wales, and the registration of persons entitled to vote,
shall remain in full force, and shall apply, as nearly as circumstances admit, to any person hereby authorised to vote, and shall also
CEIAP, XVII. QThe ºigtorg of Hamrashire. 263
apply to any constituency hereby authorised to return a member or members to Parliament, as if it had heretofore returned such
members to Parliament and to the franchises hereby conferred, and to the registers of voters hereby required to be formed.”
60. In the event of a vacancy in the representation of any constituency, or of a dissolution of Parliament taking place, and a
writ or writs being issued, before the 1st January 1869, for the election of members to serve in the present or any new Parliament,
each election shall take place in the same manner in all respects as if no alteration had been made by this act in the franchises of
electors, or in the places authorised to return a member or members to serve in Parliament: with this exception, that the boroughs
by this act disfranchised shall not be entitled to return members to serve in any such new Parliament. *
In the interpretation-clause it is provided that “‘ dwelling-house’ shall include any part of a house occupied as a separate
dwelling, and separately rated to the relief of the poor.” -
The following are some particulars, derived from parliamentary and population returns, in reference to
the four divisions of the county, and all the boroughs, old and new (the latter in italics), in Lancashire —
NORTH LANCASHIRE.-Area, 836-7 sq. miles; exclusive of boroughs except the borough of Lancaster
(4.7 sq. miles), which is included in the above area.
NORTH-EAST LANCASHIRE.-Area, 247.1 sq. miles. The new borough of Burnley (9-6 sq. miles) is not
included in this area.
SouTH-EAST LANCASHIRE-Area, 314 sq. miles. Part of the new borough of Staleybridge (0.9 sq.
miles) is not included in this area. -
SouTH-WEST LANCASHIRE-Area, 379.8 sq. miles. The new borough of St. Helens (9.2 sq. miles) is
not included in this area. [St. Helens is not made a new borough by the act of 1867.]
Taking the old division of the county into two only, North and South Lancashire, the following shows
the population of each of the old boroughs within such division in 1851 and 1861, and its increase or
decrease; also its gross estimated rental in 1856 and 1865, its increase or decrease, and the number of
members it sends. .
NORTH LANCASHIRE.
BLACKBURN (2 members)—Population in 1851, 46,536; in 1861, 63,126; increase, 16,590. Gross
rental in 1856, £126,373; in 1865, £176,451 ; increase, £50,078.
CLITHEROE (1 member).—Population, 11,480 and 10,864; decrease, 616. Rental, £34,578 and
fº,327 ; increase, £10,749. -
LANCASTER (2 members).-Population, 16,168 and 16,005; decrease, 163. Rental, £50,435 and
£56,285; increase, £5850. [Disfranchised by the act of 1867.]
PRESTON (2 members)—Population, 69,542 and 82,985; increase, 13,443. Rental, £211,600 and
£244,056; increase, £32,456.
SOUTH LANCASHIRE,
ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE (1 member)—Population, 29,791 and 33,917; increase, 4126. Rental, £81,975
and £105,590 ; increase, £23,615.
BOLTON (2 members)—Population, 61,171 and 70,395; increase, 9224. Rental, £178,882 and
#226,476; increase, £47,594.
BURY (1 member). –Population, 31,262 and 37,563; increase, 6301. Rental, £112,884 and
#131,595 ; increase, £18,711.
LIVERPOOL (3 members).-Population, 375,955 and 443,938; increase, 67,983. Rental, £1,680,824
and £2,655,888; increase, £975,064.
MANCHESTER (3 members).—Population, 316,213 and 357,979; increase, 41,706. Rental,
#1,427,600 and £1,676,785 ; increase, £249,185.
OLDHAM (2 members)—Population, 72,357 and 94,344; increase, 21,987. Rental, £192,594 and
#450,407 ; increase, £257,813.
ROCHDALE (1 member).-Population, 29,195 and 38,184; increase, 8989. Rental, £110,096 and
f141,244; increase, £31,148.
SALFORD (2 members)—Population, 85,108 and 102,449; increase, 17,341. Rental, £348,841 and
f401,707 ; increase, £52,866.
WARRINGTON (1 member)—Population, 23,363 and 26,947; increase, 3584. Rental, £77,762 and
f86,741 ; increase, £20,832. -
WIGAN (2 members).-Population, 31,941 and 37,658; increase, 5717. Rental, £77,762 and
#95,555 ; increase, £17,793. .
The total population of North Lancashire (inclusive of four represented boroughs) was 460,530 and
547,469 ; increase, 86,939. Rental, £1,727,977 and £2,287,130 ; increase, £559,153.
The population of South Lancashire (inclusive of ten represented boroughs) was 1,557,067 and
1,871,030 ; increase, 313,963." Rental, £6,471,124 and £9,046,578; increase, £2,575,454.
1 This is exclusive of Heaton Norris (population, 13,838; gross Thelwall (population, 2897; and gross rental, £9885), comprised
rental, É46,953) in the borough of Stockport, North Cheshire, and in the borough of Warrington, and situate in North Cheshire.
situate in this division, and inclusive of parts of Latchford and *
264 Cºt history ºf Lancashire. CHAP, XVII.
THE NEW LANCASHIRE BOROUGHS.
1. BURNLEY includes the township of Burnley, population 19,971 in 3515 inhabited houses; and
the township of Habergham Eaves with a population of 18,013 in 3369 inhabited houses. Total
population of new borough, 37,984 in 6884 inhabited houses.
2. STALYBRIDGE includes the municipal borough of Stalybridge, with a population of 24,921 in 4864
inhabited houses, and the remaining portions of the townships of Dukinfield (15,024 persons in 3086
houses), and of Stayley (2986 in 573 houses), and the district of the Local Board of Health of Mossley,
of which the population (taken from “The Board of Health Officers' Almanack, 1867”), is 14,000, but the
number of inhabited houses is not known. With this modification, the total population of the new
borough is 56,931 in 8523 houses, exclusive of those in Mossley district.
The following will show the changes in the representation of this county and of its boroughs made by
the act of 1867:—
COUNTY MEMBERS.
1866, 1868.
º North Lancashire 2
North Lancashire {} g º e 2 | N.E. Lancashire 2
- :-- S.E. Lancashire 2
South Lancashire 3 | S.W. Lancashire 2
County Members . 5 8
CITY AND BOROUGH MEMBERS.
Ashton-under-Lyne I 1.
Blackburn 2 2
Bolton 2 2
Bury g I I
Clitheroe . I gº & gº I
Lancaster 2 disfranchised 0
Liverpool 2 & 3
Manchester 2 3
Oldham 2 2
Preston 2 2
Rochdale l I
Salford I 2
Warrington I I
Wigan 2 2
NEW BOROUGHS.
Burnley . § sº g ë © 0 sº & g * e I
Stalybridge ſº e et * wº () * 9 º † iº I
Borough Members tº * 22 & gº & & * 25
The total representation of Lancashire in county and borough members was in 1866, 27; in 1867, by the new act, it is increased
to 33. The increase is 3 additional county and 3 additional borough members. It was expected that St. Helens would be one of
the new boroughs, but it is not included in the new act. -
The following are the appointments (Aug. 1867) of the Assistant Boundary Commissioners, and their
districts, so far as they relate to Lancashire —
NoFTH-WESTERN (two sub-districts, 22 inquiries). —Sub-district A, comprising boroughs of Clitheroe, Burnley (new),
Blackburn, Preston, Rochdale, Bury, Bolton, and Wigan. Counties to be divided—North Lancashire and South Lancashire
(10 inquiries).
Lieut. Hozier, 2d Life Guards. | Mr. F. W. Gibbs.
Sub-district B, comprising the boroughs of Liverpool, Manchester, Salford, Ashton-under-Lyne, Oldham, Birkenhead, Chester,
Stockport, Macclesfield, Warrington, and Stalybridge (new). County to be divided, Cheshire (12 inquiries).
Lieutenant-Colonel Gordon, R.E. C. B. | Mr. P. Cumin.
(ſhe #igturn of 3Lancašijire. 265
HUNDRED OF SALFORD.
*AKING these divisions of the county of Lancaster in the order indicated above, (page 260)
tº Salford Hundred will first claim our attention. At the Conquest we find only Salford,
* Manchester, Radcliffe, and Rochdale inserted in the book of judicial remembrance, while now
º, we have the whole region covered with towns and villages; and instead of sending to the
| great council of the nation one baron to watch over the public interest, the hundred of Salford
*Cººl is now privileged to send her ten members to Parliament, exclusive of knights of the
shire. In the time of the Confessor, the hundred of Salford, then held of the king, yielded only £37:4s, to
the royal revenue; while in 1866 its parishes and townships are valued at £4,082,799 per annum, and pay
£8505: 16 : 8 to the county-rate, upon an assessment of one half-penny in the pound.
Salford Hundred is twenty-two miles in length from east to west, and nineteen miles in breadth from
south to north ; it is bounded on the south by the county of Chester, on the east by the West Riding of
Yorkshire, on the north by the hundred of Blackburn, and on the west by the hundred of West Derby.
Manchester, the principal seat of the cotton-manufacture, is its most important town, and this parish will
take the precedency in our topographical history of the Salford Hundred. Originally, parishes, manors, and
tithings, were commensurate throughout the kingdom, and the manor and the advowson passed together;
but we shall find in this and the other hundreds of Lancashire many departures from this rule in modern
times.
The reigning king or queen of England, as duke or duchess of Lancaster, is the lord or lady of the
manor and hundred of Salford; and in that character a court-leet is held for the duke or duchess of Lancaster,
formerly at Easter and Michaelmas, in Salford, before the high-steward or deputy-steward of the hundred
and manor. The earl of Sefton is the hereditary steward for the duke or duchess of Lancaster; and that
the office was an object of lordly ambition from an early age appears by a record, extracted from the book of
John, duke of Newcastle, in the Harleian collection (cod. 4010, fol. 161):—In this plea Hugh de Ferrars
complains that William, earl of Derby, had forcibly seized the manor of Salford with appurtenances, which he,
Hugh, held as bailiff of the king, and that he had been forcibly expelled therefrom at the instance of the
said earl of Derby, etc. The earl, it appears, did not come into court on the day named, and made several
like defaults, so that he was first attached by Henry de Berton and Richard de Fordes; afterwards by
Michael, the reeve of Salford, and Hugh Fitz-Geoffrey de Salford; and distraint was made on the earl's
lands and cattle, and he was required to appear within fifteen days after Easter-day. The result of this plea
does not appear from the record. In practice the court-leet of the manor and hundred is now held before
the deputy-steward of the hundred. The present deputy-steward is J. H. Hulme, Esq. The court is held
only yearly, in October, and at this court the constables of such townships in the hundred as are not within
any manor are appointed in accordance with two decisions of the Court of Queen's Bench. Her majesty's
Court of Record for the hundred of Salford is held at stated periods, before Joseph Kay, Esq., M.A., judge,
and J. H. Hulme, Esq., deputy-steward and registrar.
The hundred of Salford consists of ten entire parishes and parts of two others; comprehending one
hundred and thirteen townships, which are formed, for parochial and police purposes, into three divisions,
arranged in the following order:-
§ 2
I.—BOLTON DIVISION.
Townships, etc.
1. BoITON PARISH.--Anlezargh, Blackrod, Great Bolton, Little Bolton, Bradshaw, Breightmet, Edgeworth, Entwistle,
Harwood, Darcy Lever, Little Lever, Longworth, Lostock, Quarlton, Rivington, Sharples, Tonge with Haulgh, and Turton.--
(18 Townships, etc.) -
2. BURY PARISH.—Bury, Elton, Heap, Tottington Lower End, Tottington Higher End, Walmersley and Shuttleworth. –
(6 Townships, etc.)
3. DEAN PARISH.—Farnworth, Halliwell, Heaton, Horwich, Little Hulton, Middle Hulton, Over Hulton, Kersley,
Rumworth, and Westhoughton.—(10.) *
4. RADCLIFFE PARISH.—Radcliffe.—(1.)
5. WIGAN PARISH.—Abram, Aspull, Billinge Chapel End, Billinge Higher End, Dalton, Haigh, Hindley, Ince, Orrell,
Pemberton, Upholland, Wigan, and Winstanley.—(13.)
1 See p. 264. * Exclusive of Beswick, which is extra-parochial,



2 M -
266 (Iſiſt ºigtúrg of 3Lantagjire.
II,_MANCHESTER DIVISION.
6. ECCLES PARISH.—Barton-upon-Irwell, Clifton, Pendlebury, Pendleton, and Worsley.—(5.)
7. FLIXTON PARISH.—Flixton and Urmston.—(2.
8. MANCHESTER PARISH.—Ardwick, Blackley, Bradford (and Beswick, extra-parochial), Broughton, Burnage, Cheetham,
Chorlton-with-Hardy, Chorlton-upon-Medlock, Crumpsall, Denton, Didsbury, Droylsden, Failsworth, Gorton, Harpurhey, Heaton,
Norris, Haughton, Hulme, Levenshulme, Manchester, Moss-side, Moston, Newton, Openshaw, Reddish, Rusholme, Salford,
Stretford, and Withington.—(29, or 30 including Beswick.)
9. * PARISH (Part of).-Alkrington, Great Heaton, Little Heaton, Pilkington, Prestwich, and
Tonge.—(6.
III.—MIDDLETON DIVISION.
10. ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE PARISH.—Four divisions—viz, Ashton, Audenshaw, Hartshead, and Knott Lanes.—(4.)
11. MIDDLETON PARISH.—Ainsworth, Ashworth, Birtle-with-Bamford, Hopwood, Great Lever, Middleton, Pilsworth, an
Thornham.—(8).
12. PRESTWICH-CUM-OLDHAM PARISH (Part of).-Chadderton, Crompton, Oldham, and Royton.-(4.)
13. ROCHDALE PARISH.—Blatchinworth and Calderbrook, Butterworth, Castleton, Spotland, Todmorden and Walsden,
Wardleworth, and Wuerdle and Wardle.—(7.) -
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arišij. 267
MAN CHIESTER PARISH.
Early History of Manchester—The Name: how derived—Roman Period—Roman Remains: Early Discovery of ;
Late and more Ample Discoveries—Saxon Period—Manchester at the Norman Conquest—Ancient Charter
granted to Salford–Barony and Barons of Manchester—Early Charters and Documents—The Greslets; Man-
chester Charter of 1301—The De la Warres—The Wests—The Mosleys—Armorial Bearings of Manchester, and
of the Successive Lords of the Manor—A.D. 79 to 1846.
§ANCHESTER, before the Roman conquest, affords no authentic history. The ancient history
§ § of the county of Lancaster has been sketched in the introductory chapter of this work. Mr.
Ä É. Whitaker, the historian of Roman and Saxon Manchester, has formed a number of ingenious
Wº%; conjectures as to the state of this place before the descent of the Romans; but it would be a
§§§ º waste of our too circumscribed limits to follow that “ lively and ingenious antiquarian,” as
Ǻ ; Mr. Gibbon has very justly called him, through a hundred pages of aboriginal lore. The
Romans called the place MANCUNIUM, or rather MAMUCIUM, and the Saxons Mame-ceaster. From the
earliest documents after the Norman Conquest we find that its name took the form of MAMECESTRE, which
it retained till the end of the fifteenth century, when it gradually assumed its present form of Manchester.
“The parish of Manchester,” says Mr. Whitaker, “was originally a wild unfrequented tract of woodland, inhabited merely by
the boar, the bull, and the wolf, and traversed only by the hunters of the neighbouring country. In the first visit of the Romans
to Britain, under Julius Cæsar," it does not appear that the invaders penetrated so far north as Lancashire, and it was not till the
time of Agricola (A.D. 79) that Manchester passed under the Roman yoke. At that period the tumults of war were introduced
amongst the peaceable inhabitants, and Manchester was occupied by levies from the banks of the Tiber. A Roman station was
constructed in the Castlefield, near the confluence of the Medlock with the Irwell; and another [and smaller] establishment, about
a mile to the north of it, at the confluence of the Irk with the same river, received a colony of inhabitants, who made it their
summer residence. Four minor fortresses were placed for their protection within, and the woodlands were intersected with Roman
roads, all ranging at right angles through the thickets, and converging to a point in the Castlefield. One thing more completed
the great change in this transformed region ; a regular town was now for the first time laid out in the parish ; and a neighbouring
baron and his clan were settled within it.”
The remains of a British station are few in number, and even those are conjectural. The British
fortresses of Lancashire, such as they were, speedily became Roman camps. The encampments were marked
out under the eye of the conqueror, and he explored for himself the estuaries and the forests.” The castle-
field of Mamucium he chose for the Roman castrum, and occupied with its site nearly one-half the original
fortress, the foundations of which have now almost wholly disappeared. All that now (1832) remains visible
of the ancient castle of Manchester, is the fragment of an inner wall, about 7 yards long, 2 feet wide, and
27 inches above the surface. This ancient relic consists of unhewn stone, grouted with a rough kind of
mortar as hard as the stone itself. The mortar, composed partly, in all probability, of the famous Ardwick
lime, on being submitted to analysis by the scientific president of the Manchester Philosophical Society,” in
1828, was found, on being coarsely pulverised and sifted, to form itself into three parts—first, a fine powder;
second, a coarser powder; and third, round small pieces like shot, of various sizes. The finer powder was
found to contain from 15 to 20 per cent of carbonate of lime, with some clay and iron, and about 80 per
cent of sand. The other two parts contained stony particles and lumps, less soluble in acids, and yielding an
inferior proportion of lime. The wall is in the rear of Bridgewater Street, within a foot of the division-wall
of a pile of cottages, and in the open space used as a timber-yard, adjoining the Bridgewater canal, from
which it is about the same distance as from the old station of the Manchester and Liverpool railway.
Of the Roman castle Dr. Stukeley, who visited Manchester about 1700, says:—
“A Roman castrum was on the west side going for Chester by Stretford, and on the northern bank of the river Medlock. It is a
small piece of level ground, somewhat higher than that around it: it does not cover the whole piece, but is a square, five hundred feet
one way, four hundred the other ; nor can it be said to be ditched about, but the ground beside it, for some distance, is manifestly
removed into the castle, and spread along its verge, not as a regular vallum, but sloping inwards: by this means the area of it is
higher on the sides than in the middle, and the exterior ground is lowered around to the foot of the castle, which is steep, like the
side of the vallum. Upon this edge there has been a wall quite round ; the foundations of it are to be discovered almost every-
where ; in some places large parcels of it are left, but not above ground. Now they call it the Castle Croft. The river Medlock
runs near it, but is no Security to it, it being not close enough ; nor are its banks steep hereabouts, though its channel is rock, as is
º:
1 See p. 2. * Tacitus in Vit. Agr. 119. 3 Dr. Dalton.






268 Ǻr #istory of £ancašijire.
the whole country near. This is a quarter of a mile from the present town of Manchester. The Irwell river coming through the
town, runs on the west side the castle, and there joins to it.” Stukeley, it will be remembered, wrote about the year 1700, and his
description of course relates to that period. At present the Castle Field is not “a quarter of a mile from the town of Manchester,”
but is strictly a part of the town, and forms one of its most populous districts. Mr. Horsley, who wrote upwards of thirty years
after Dr. Stukeley, and who says that he examined with care the Roman station itself, still speaks of it as about a quarter of a mile
out of the town, and says that the station then went by the name of “Giant's Castle, or Tarquin's Castle.” The learned and
venerable Camden, who visited Manchester about a hundred years before this time, and is one of the earliest authorities on the subject
of its history, says, “In a park of the earl of Derby, in this neighbourhood, called Alparke, I saw foundations of an old square
tower, called Mancastle, where the river Medlock falls into the Irwell. I do not affirm this to have been the ancient Mancvnivm, as
it incloses but a small space, but rather some station of the Romans, at which I saw an old stone with this inscription —
O CANDIDI
FIDES XX
IIII 1
“The following,” says Camden, “was copied for me, by that famous mathematician, J. Dee, warden of Manchester College,
who saw it —
- COHO. I. FRISIN
O MASAWONIS
P. XXIII 2
“These seem to have been erected to the memory of those centurions, for their tried fidelity and integrity for so many years.”
Hollinworth, in his M.S. under the title of MANCUNIENSIs,” written during the period of the Commonwealth, makes the addition
to these remains of an altar dedicated to the goddess of Fortune by a centurion of the 6th Legion, Victrix: “In the year 1612,”
says he, “Vnder the roote of an oake in Medlockneere Knot Mill, was found a stone, three-quarters long, 15 inches broad, 11 inches
thicke, wth the lettered syde downward, weh Mr. Cambden saw not, or at least not before the finishing of his Britannia, but is now
to be seene in the garden at Holme, with this inscription —‘Fortvnae Conservatrici. L. Senecian vs Martivs I Leg. WI. Wict.”
The inscription, as given by Hollinworth, is not strictly accurate, at least it does not correspond with the following, drawn by
Horsley, from an inspection of the stone ; and the disappearance of the altar from the gardens at Hulme Hall, now destroyed, has
deprived us of the opportunity of collating the two authorities:–

FORTWAE
CONSERVA
||||TRICI
|LSENECIA
|NIVSMAt
TIVS 3LEG
VI VICT g|
ſ
/
ſ
~~~~
*-*
Which may be read–Fortunae Conservatrici Lucius Senecianius Martius Centurio Legionis Seatae Victricis.4 The sixth legion was
stationed at York during the residence of the Emperor Severus in that city, and the arm of a silver votive statue of Valerius Rufus,
Which had probably been broken off, and lost on the march of the troops between Eboracum and Mamucium, was found near
Littleborough in the year 1793.
Dr. Stukeley mentions a gold coin of Otho, and a large Roman ring of gold, found on Castle Field in Manchester. On the
bank of the Castrum were found, about 1765, a number of Roman urns, wrought earthen vessels, and a fibula, and several coins,
With a Roman lachrymatory of black glass, half-filled with liquid; without the vallum, several urns and vessels, one inscribed
ADvocISI on its outer limb, Were found, and other coins and urns have since been discovered. A celt, found in Manchester, is
shown in the Chetham Library; and a Roman bulla of gold was dug up in deepening the channel for the Bridgewater canal, close
* Mr. Horsley, in his Britannia Romana, reads this inscription * According to Horsley, to be read thus:–
thus:— Cohors prima Frisingensium [Frisianorum.]
•º centurioni Marco Savonio Sti-
pendiorum viginti trium.
* Horsley's Britannia Romana, book ii. plate 61.
Centurionis Candidi
Fidesii annorum Viginti
mensium quatuor. * Page 3.
#umbret of $alfort—ſtanchester 49arisiſ. 269
to the second lock of the Irwell. Mr. Whitaker, who mentions this fine piece of antiquity, says that it was deposited in the
Leverian Museum. The following is its form and exact size:–
Mr. Whitaker also exhibits a sword which he considered Roman, but Mr. Horsley pronounces it English. In 1771 the
basement storey of several inferior buildings, manifestly Roman, with some Roman coins, was discovered on the banks of the
Medlock at the south-eastern and south-western points of the station in Castle Field, where the offices stood; “and a Roman
mound,” says Whitaker, “is still visible at Broughton, in this parish, within sight of the Roman road.” This he considers an
artificial mound, thrown up by the herdsmen for the protection of their castra aestiva; but an inspection of the ground at the time
when the workmen were forming the subterranneous entrance into Hylewood Tower, which is now erected upon this mound, does
not sustain the pastoral theory; for, with the exception of about two feet thick of gravel at the top, it was a solid rock of the red
sandstone, which forms the material of all the rocks in that neighbourhood. Later discoveries of ancient remains have been made
in the neighbourhood of the Castle Field. In the year 1821, while some workmen were sinking a drain in the township of Hulme,
in this parish, on the exact line of the Roman road from Manchester to Chester, and a few hundred yards to the southward of the
Roman station, three large stones were found imbedded in the gravel about six feet below the surface, the first of which was two
feet six inches square, .# a small figure which Mr. Whatton, who inspected these interesting remains, thus describes:– “On the
front is sculptured, in relief, the figure of a man standing upright on his left leg, with the right thrown towards it, and the toe
pointing downwards. His right arm crosses his body, and resting the elbow upon a pillar or staff, supports, on the opposite side,
the elbow of the left arm, the hand of which supports the head. The whole is supported by a raised border or moulding, and is
thus sketched;—
“The second stone exhibits a rudely-carved head of a large size and coarse features, with the hair turned backwards, standing
on a very short pedestal. The third is an image in a flowing dress, about two feet and a half high, with the hands crossed and
locked before the body. The head of this last was broken from the body, but found afterwards lying close to the other part.” The
two last have the appearance of Gothic ornaments of an ancient church, but the first has been conjectured to be of Roman origin.
This we apprehend to be a mistake; it is highly probable that this monument is of the date of the Crusades, and not unlikely
portrays the figure of a knight-templar.
In 1808, a number of Roman dishes were found in the Castle Field, on the site of the Roman station, by the workmen employed
in cutting the tunnel of the Rochdale canal, near its junction with the duke of Bridgewater's canal. These curious remains of
early art were discovered at a distance of about twelve feet from the surface, imbedded in clay and sand, where they had lain dry
and undisturbed for at least fourteen centuries. When found they had much of the appearance of old silver. The workmen, in hopes
that they had found a great treasure of intrinsic value, had them conveyed to the silversmith's for sale; but, to their mortification,
they proved to be pewter. The antiquarian value of these dishes appears never to have occurred to the excavators: they had them
then taken to the brazier's, and sold as old metal; but they were fortunately rescued just in time from the melting-pot by Mr.
William Ford of Manchester, who presented them, through the medium of Samuel Lysons, esq., of the Record Office, to the British
Museum.” Engravings have since been made of them, and we are indebted to Mr. Ford for the following specimens:–8
* See Gent. Mag, 1821, pt. i. p. 257. dishes (17; inches diameter), and observes in a note that a small bit
* Gallery of Antiquities. having been taken from one of them, was analysed by Dr. Wol-
* Mr. Lysons, in his Reliquia Britannico-Romande, vol. i. part laston, and found to consist of nearly three parts of tin to one of
iv. p. 3, plate v. figs. 1 and 2, gives drawings of one of these lead.


270 (The 49tstory of 3Lancashirt.
Roman DISHES FOUND IN CASTLE FIELD, MANCHESTER.
A large accession has been recently made to the Roman antiquities of Lancashire. These interesting
remains have been chiefly dug up in the Castle Field, at Manchester, within the last seven years (prior to
1836), by the workmen in the employ of the devisees of the late duke of Bridgewater, and are now deposited
at Worsley Hall. They consist of a Roman altar, various pieces of pottery, some ornamented and others
plain, a Roman figure of small dimensions, several ornaments and utensils, and a variety of coins, which may
be classed in the following order:-
I. A small leaden bust of a female, probably a household divinity, four inches high : the features are considerably impaired by
the corroding hand of time; the hair remains very distinct, the back of the image is flat. From the right shoulder rises up some-
thing in shape between a sickle and a crook. II. A piece of solid pottery, about five inches long and two thick, with the face of an
animal, probably a lion, at one end, and a mane; the nose and mouth are wanting. III. Fragments of a bowl (patera) of red pottery,
ornamented with a scene representing a deer-chase; the figures of the deer, dogs, and men are very spirited, and tolerably correct.
This bowl has been about seven and a halfinches diameter, and three and a half inches high. Four considerable fragments remain,
which join at the edges. This was found in 1829. IV. Fragments of another bowl, of red pottery, ornamented with figures of
a man standing erect, a man sitting, and a Cupid within a circle, as well other tracery. This bowl has been seven inches in diameter,
and four inches high. Three considerable fragments remain, which join at the edges. It was found the 10th June 1829. W. A
bowl, of a capacity to contain three quarts, of dark-coloured earthenware, perfect, nearly the same size as Nos. 3 and 4, but quite plain,
and with a broad rim; it appears to have been glazed. This was found the 8th July 1828. VI. Another vessel of dark-coloured
pottery, perfect, nine inches and a quarter in diameter in the middle, and six inches high. VII. A small cup of dark-coloured
pottery, and of the shape of an urn, of slight construction; it is two inches high, and two and a half inches in diameter in the
middle. There is also a similar cup of red pottery, three inches high, and two and three-quarters in diameter. VIII. A small
oblong brick or tile, with the inscription FCXXVV, which may be—Fecit Cohors Vicesima Valens Victrix. IX. Two iron heads of
spears or javelins, much corroded. X. The head of an axe, of iron, corroded; it is toothick and heavy for a securis, or sacrificing
axe, and has probably been used for hewing timber. It is ten inches long, and two and a half inches thick at the head. It was
found in March 1829. XI. A stylus or graphium, of iron, seven and a half inches long, with a spiral twist; the top part is formed
like the letter T. This was the instrument with which the Romans wrote on their waxed tables, and occasionally these styles were
used as offensive weapons; when Julius Caesar was attacked by his assassins, he wounded Cassius with his style; and the pupils of
St. Cassian murdered him with their styles: from similarity of shape and size, the stiletto, or small dagger, of the Italians, obviously
derives its name. XII. A copper brooch, without the pin, covered with a smooth coat of erugo, or verdigris. It is upwards
of two inches in length. XIII. A small copper hinge, which has probably belonged to a helmet or a spur, about an inch and
a half long. XIV. A brass pin, remarkably perfect, and free from rust; it has probably been used for a lady's hair-ornament;
the head is square, with indentations for precious stones. XV. A bronze hemisphere, shaped much like a bell, probably a bulla, used
for suspension round the neck, as a preventive of disease, and worn for that purpose by youths and by soldiers. At first they were
made of leather, afterwards of metal. A gold bulla, of a different shape, was found near Manchester, in May 1772, and is mentioned
in Whitaker's Manchester, notes to book i. The present specimen is two inches in diameter, and nearly the same high, including
the circular rim by which it was suspended. XVI. Another copper bulla. XVII. A metallic stand, three or four inches high, with
a circular rim, apparently intended to hold a medal or coin : if it had been made after the invention of watches, it would have been
supposed to be a watch-stand. XVIII. An ornamental copper cross, about an inch each way. XIX. A small copper ladle, of an
inch and a half long, of the shape, but too small to be used for that purpose. XX. A small copper instrument resembling the above,
but, instead of the ladle part, there is only a circular rim of metal, with a groove running round it. , XXI. The head and neck of
an animal shaped like an antelope, but flat on the top and at the sides; it is of copper, and the head is about three-quarters of an

#umbren of Šalforn—ſtanchester parish. 271
inch long. XXII. A small copper stand, which can only be described as resembling a candle in a candlestick; about two inches
high. XXIII. A circular metallic brooch, inlaid with seven stones, as a kind of mosaic work; nearly an inch in diameter. XXIV.
A small copper figure of a horse, quite flat, with a hole by which it has been attached to a flat surface; an inch and a half long.
XXV. Several beads, of different sizes, perforated, and fluted on the exterior surface, coloured blue ; they are made of paste or earth,
and are of British, not Roman origin, similar ornaments having been found in the British barrows,upon Salisbury Plain. XXVI.
A great number of metallic rings, flattened into plates, and exactly of the shape of quoits, used in forming the petticoat-like armour
attached to the back and breast plates and which covered the thighs : the plates overlaid each other like scales. There are also
some broken pieces of metal, which seem to have been parts of buckles, sword-handles, and ornaments; and other fragments of
pottery. XXVII. But the most interesting of all the antiquities discovered in Castle Field is a votive altar, found May 1832, raised
by a standard-bearer of the Praetorian Legion, in fulfilment of a vow which he owed to his emperor, inscribed—NIvs MP. OSL v.EXII,
PRAETOR. ET NORICOR. W. S. L. L. M.
The altar is of the red sandstone which prevails through the South of Lancashire. It measures, from the bottom of the base
to the top of the capital, two feet four inches; the base is one foot eleven inches from side to side, and one foot two inches from front
to back. A portion of this inscription is unfortunately broken off, but the letters which remain are remarkably perfect, and of the
form which prevailed in the age of Hadrian and Antoninus Pius, before the ligatures and complications of letters had come into
use. About a month before the discovery of this altar, a coffin was found on digging on the opposite side of the Medlock to Castle
Field. . The coffin was enclosed within a casing of red earthenware, and appeared to have been made of oak, as the grain of the wood
might be distinctly seen, though it was all reduced to a pulpy mass, which Soon fell to dust. Bones were seen in the coffin when
it was first opened, but they crumbled on exposure to the air. The coffin was about six feet long.
XXVIII. Form of the earthenware plates which enclosed the coffin—twenty inches long, sixteen inches broad, and two and a
half inches thick, including the rim., XXIX. Fragment of a Roman inscription, admirably cut in stone, containing metallic
particles. XXX. Piece of ornamental pottery. XXXI. Fragment of a Roman urn, with the handle detached.—The coins are
chiefly of Vespasian, Antoninus Pius, Trajan, Hadrian, Nerva, Domitian, Vitellius, and Constantius; several of them are in high
preservation, but by far the greater part are rendered illegible by rust. In the Castle Field there have also been found coins of
Joseph of Portugal, Edward VI., Jacobus VI. (James I. of England), Charles I., Anne, etc.
All the trades required for supplying the wants of the inhabitants and of the garrison prevailed in
Mamucium during the occupation of the Romans, and, as a prime requisite, a water-mill was erected upon
the rocky channel of the Medlock, below the station and the town, on a site which has for many ages been
called Knot Mill. A Commune Furnum, or common bakehouse, was early introduced into Mamucium, and
continued for ages to claim the exclusive privilege of baking the bread of the inhabitants. In an early age
the fleece of the sheep was manufactured into drapery, and afforded clothing both for the military classes
and for the cultivators of the soil; but no record is left to show whether Manchester was amongst the
manufacturing towns of the Romans. Money was undoubtedly coined at York in the early period of British
history, and Manchester is also supposed to have had its mint. -
Of Saxon Manchester much has been written, but little is known. The resistance of King Arthur to
the Saxon yoke was distinguished by the most heroic devotion to the cause of his country; and the battles
fought in Lancashire in this patriotic cause have rendered for ever memorable the banks of the Douglas.
After these battles an attempt was made, as we have already seen, by Sir Lancelot of the Lake, one of King
Arthur's knights of the round table, to expel Sir Tarquin, the Saxon giant chief, from the castle of Manchester.
The conflicts of these ancient knights are of such a nature that they may be either said or sung; and there
are several ballads extant, all founded on the story related in the legends of Arthur.
The independence of Northumbria did not long survive the gallant King Arthur, and Manchester was
doomed to swell the Saxon conquests. A mighty pestilence that prevailed at this time in Britain, and no
doubt extended itself to Lancashire, precipitated the country's fall." The followers of Woden, like the Druids,
worshipped in caverns and cliffs of rocks; and a laborious antiquary of Manchester (Mr. Thomas. Barritt) has
preserved in his MSS., now deposited in the Chetham Library, an account of Ordsall Rock.” The figures on
the rock have been purposely obliterated, with more than Gothic insensibility, to prevent the annoyance
occasioned by antiquarian visitors resorting to the place. To the same laborious collector we are indebted for
drawings of two silver coins and one of gold, dug up in Castle Field, at Manchester, in 1775, from which
the following are copies:—
SILVER.
SILVER.
The small gold coin exhibits the legend of Tarquin, and is in this way identified with the place where
it was found ; but the silver coins seem to have no affinity to Manchester, nor to the ancient inhabitants,
and are probably of British origin. -
1 Leland’s “Collections,” tom. i. part ii. p. 37. * See his MS. “Collections,” pp. 98, 99. 8 Barritt's MSS. 4to, fol. 55.



272 (Iſiſt #istory ºf 3Lancašijirº.
Geoffrey Chaucer, in his “Tale of Constancie,” says that in the reign of Atta, king of Northumbria,
which began in 559— .
“In all that lond, dursten non Christen rout,
All Christen folk bin fled from the Country
Through Panym that conquered all about,
The plagues of Northumberland by land and see.”
In 620, Edwin, king of Northumbria, on his expedition against the Sistuntii of the south, subdued the
Brigantes of the West Riding; then, crossing the ridge of mountains which form the boundary of Yorkshire
and Lancashire, he entered the parish of Manchester, and permanently reduced the town under the dominion
of the Saxons. In the reign of Edwin, the missionaries from Rome, encouraged by the court, began to spread
the doctrine of the Cross in this place, as well as in other parts of England, and thousands of people received
the rite of Christian baptism by the hands of Paulinus. The parish was soon after formed, and a parish church,
dedicated to St. Michael," was erected in Aldport. The increase of the town soon rendered another church
necessary, and St. Mary's, which is supposed to have stood at the top of St. Mary's Gate, completed the
Saxon ecclesiastical establishment of Manchester. The deaneries of Manchester and Warrington were
established at the time when the parishes were formed, and the county of Lancaster was assigned to the
diocese [? province] of York. The deanery is said to have given name to Deansgate; much of the property
here was church land, and one portion of it is still called the Parsonage, and another the Church Land.
Manchester had now become a place of some strength and consideration, since we find that it was selected,
about A.D. 689, for the residence of Ethelburga, the consort of Ina, king of Wessex, during his march against
the Welsh under Ivor and Henyr, who had laid waste the province of Chester. Having conquered the invaders
in two sanguinary conflicts, Ina, according to the chronicle quoted by Humphrey Lhuyd, “departed him-
self with Adelard his cousen to Queen Ethelburga, being then at Manchester, and continued there
about three months.” The wars between the Saxons and the Danes raged principally in the north of
England; and Manchester, being exposed to many of the horrors of the contest, became ruined and almost
depopulated. It appears, from the highest antiquarian authority, that a gallant stand was made here against
the invaders. According to the Saxon Chronicle, the town of Manchester was re-edified and garrisoned by
Edward the Elder in the year 923. It is highly probable that at this time the town of Manchester extended
from the confluence of the Medlock with the Irwell to the confluence of the Irk with the same river; in
other terms, from the Castle Field to the college (Chetham's Hospital); and that Deansgate and St. Mary's
Gate formed the principal streets, and Aldpark the vill precinct. In addition to the mill near the Roman
castrum, another was built on the banks of the Irk, where Cateaton Street now stands, and gave the name
to Old Millgate, which is to be classed amongst the ancient parts of the town. The market was held in and
about Smithy Door, and the wakes were celebrated on St. Michael and St. Mary's days, the former of them.
along the course of Aldport Lane, and the latter in the area of Acres Field. The ingenious author of the
History of Manchester has sketched a plan of the town at this period, which may not be far from correct ;
at a much more recent date, Manchester consisted of little more than a market-place, two mills, three or four
streets skirted by some large enclosures, and the adjoining hamlets of Ancoats and Collyhurst ; and even
now, Castle Field, Camp Field, Dole Field, Parsonage Field, and Acres Field, with the sites of three or four
large ancient pools, form the ground-plan of a large portion of modern Manchester. Canute the Dane, in his
march into Cumberland to encounter the Scots, visited Manchester, and is reputed to have conferred his name
on one of its ancient mills, popularly called Knot (or Canute) Mill.
The manor of Manchester, according to Mr. Whitaker, is of a date long antecedent to the Norman
Conquest ; and the baronial residence of the Saxon lord was erected upon the ground where stood the summer
camp of the Romans, hence distinguished in old records as Baron's Yard and Baron's Hall. Salford, with its
dependencies, was a manor and royal possession in Saxon times; and about the year 900 it had risen into
sufficient importance to confer its name upon a district, not remarkable, however, at the period of the
Conquest, for either the number of its towns or the denseness of its population. A reference to the
l Ashton-under-Lyne originally formed part of the parish of
Manchester, but it was separated from the parent stock before the
year 1291, when the Valor Beneficiorum of Pope Nicholas IV. was
taken. *
* On raising the present church in Acres Square [Acres Field, or
St. Ann's Square], vast quantities of bones were dug up, reposited
in their cells, and everywhere, as the foundations were carried along,
about two yards deep in the ground (Whit. Man. ii. 413). As
(likewise) many years afterwards, and about 1742, in digging for
the foundation of a chimney near the eastern termination of St.
Mary's Gate, on the southern side of the street, and immediately
to the west of Byron's Court there, the workmen went through seven
or eight feet of shifted earth, and then came to some evident graves,
the repositories of human bones and numerous coffins. This shows
the plan of the churchyard there to have brought the boundaries
of it on the West traversingly to the east. (Unpublished M.S. addit.
to Whitaker's Manchester, in the author's own hand.)
* Ormerod's Cheshire, vol. i. Introd. xxv. In the Rhyming
Chronicle of Robert Mannyng, alias Robert de Brunne, of about
A.D. 1300 (apparently a paraphrase of Peter Langtoft's French
Chronicle), is the following version (modernised) of the facts cited
by Humphrey Lhuyd –
“The English kings turned : they could do no more
But Sojourned them awhile, in rest, at Bangor ;
So that each king of realm should make him all ready,
At the Easter (after King Ina would tarry),
Homeward to go, to child and to wife, -
To visit their lands and solace their life.
Ina, king of Wessex, for his wife sent
- Unto Mamecestre : the Queen to him went.”
* See chap. ii. p. 15. - -
#umbret of Šalfort—ſtanchester parish. 273
Domesday Survey, taken in 1086, sufficiently proves that Salford was the least important of all the five
hundreds of Lancashire, with the exception of Leyland; and even Blackburn Hundred, consisting at that time
almost entirely of forests, contained more towns than the hundred of Salford. The main population spread
itself along the coast, while the interior of this county had much the appearance of a chase for the beasts of
the forest.
Amongst the most ancient documents connected with the history of the county of Lancaster we find in
the records of the duchy office a charter, hitherto unpublished, granted in the reign of Henry III. by Ranulph
or Randle de Blundeville, earl of Chester, who had confirmation of the lands between the Mersey and the
Ribble, creating Salford a free borough. This charter is substantially the same as the Manchester charter,
granted by Thomas de Greslet nearly a century afterwards, the principal difference consisting in a provision,
“That every burgess shall have one acre attached to his burgage, paying twelve pence for all rent belonging
to that burgage.”
SALFORD CHARTER.2
Randle, earl of Chester and Lincoln, to all, present and to come, who shall see or hear this present charter, greeting. Know ye me to
have given and granted, and by this my present charter to have confirmed, that the town of Salford may be a free borough, and that the
burgesses dwelling therein may have and hold all these liberties underwritten —First, that each burgess may have one acre of land to his
burgage, and he shall pay for such his burgage by the year 12d. for all Services which to the burgage belong. If the reeve of the town
shall challenge any burgess on any plea, and the challenged come not on the day, nor any one for him, within the Lagh-mote, he is in my
forfeiture 12d. If any burgess implead another burgess for any debt, and he shall acknowledge the debt, the reeve may appoint a day for
him—to wit the eighth ; and if he come not on the day, he shall pay to me 12d. as forfeiture of the day, and he shall pay the debt, and
give the reeve 4d. If any burgess within the borough, through anger, shall strike or beat any burgess, without bloodshed, by view of the
burgesses, he shall make peace to him, saving my right—to wit 12d. If any one shall be impleaded of the borough of any plea, he need
not answer neither to burgess or villein, or any other, unless in his Port-mote—to wit, to a plea which pertains to the borough. If any
burgess or other accuse any burgess of theft, the reeve shall attach him to answer, and to abide judgment in the Port-mote, saving my
right. If any one shall be impleaded of his neighbour, or of any other, of anything that belongeth to the borough, and he shall be sued
three days, if he have witnesses of the reeve and of his neighbours that his adversary made default on those three days, he shall after that
give no man answer of the plea, and the other shall fall into mercy. No burgess ought to bake bread to be sold save at my oven, by
reasonable custom. If I shall have a mill there, the burgesses shall grind at my mill to the twentieth vessel [or measure]; and if I shall
not have a mill there, they may grind where they will. The foresaid burgesses may choose a reeve of themselves whom they will, and
remove him at the end of a year. Any of the burgesses may give, pledge |or mortgage], or sell his burgage to whomsoever he will, unless
his heir will buy it; but his heir shall be nearest to buy it, saving my service, but so that it shall not be sold into religion [i.e. mortmain].
The burgesses may arrest their debtors for their debts in the borough, if the debtor acknowledge his debt, unless they be tenants of the
borough. The chattels of burgesses ought not to be seized for the debts of any but themselves. The foresaid burgesses, and all of whom-
soever they may buy or sell, wheresoever it may be within my lordship, whether in fairs or in markets, shall be quit of toll, saving the toll
of salt. Whosoever shall break the assise, whether of bread or of ale, shall remain in forfeiture of 12d. for three times, and the fourth
time he shall do the assise of the town [? suffer the pillory]. The same burgesses shall have common free pasture in wood and in plain, in
all pastures belonging to the town of Salford, and they shall be quit of pannage in the wood of the town of Salford. The foresaid
burgesses may reasonably take from the foresaid wood all that is necessary for building and burning. Any one may be at plea for his
wife and his family, and the wife of any one may pay his farm [rent] to the reeve, doing what he ought to do, and sue the plea for her
husband, if he should perchance be elsewhere. A burgess, if he shall have no heir, may leave his burgage and his chattels when he dies
to whomsoever he pleaseth, Saving, however, my right—to wit, 4d., and saving the Service that to the burgage belongeth, so that the burgage,
however, be not alienated in religion. When a burgess dieth his wife may remain in the house with the heir, and there may have
necessaries, so long as she remain without a husband ; and whenever she will marry she may depart without dower, and the heir as master
shall remain in the house. When a burgess dieth his heir shall give no other relief to me than these arms—to wit, a sword, or a bow, or
a lance [or spear]. No one within the Wapentake of Salford, as a shoemaker, a felt or pelt-monger, a fuller, or any other such, shall use
his office unless it be within the borough, saving the liberties of the barony. The foresaid burgesses shall pay their rent for their burgages
at the four yearly terms—to wit, at the Nativity of the Lord [Christmas], 3d. ; at Mid-Lent, 3d. ; at the Feast of St. John Baptist
[June 24, 3d. ; and at the Feast of St. Michael [Sep. 29], 3d. All the foresaid pleas shall be determined before the bailiffs of the lord
the earl, by view of the burgesses. Whosoever shall desire to sell his burgage, save into religion, shall give me 4d., and shall go freely
whithersoever he will, with all his chattels. I, the same Randle, and my heirs, will warrant all the foresaid liberties and customs to the
foresaid burgesses and their heirs against all people for ever, saving to me and to my heirs reasonable talliage when the lord the king
shall cause to be talliaged his boroughs throughout England. In memory of which matter to this present page I have set my seal. These
being witnesses:–Sir Wm. [de Vernon], Justice of Chester; Simon de Montfort; Paganus [Payne] de Chauresworth ; Fulk Fitz-Warrine ;
Gilbert de Segrave; Walter de Arden; Richard de Berun [Byron]; Roger Gernet ; Roger de Derby; Geoffrey de Bury; Hugh de Bury;
Simon and John, clerks; and many others.”
In tracing the descent of the barony of Manchester, a difficulty occurs in limine, arising from the paucity
of direct evidence as to the precise period at which the lordship or manor was created, and came into the
Greslet family. William the Norman, soon after the Conquest, gave to Roger de Poictou all that land or
province lying between the rivers of Ribble and Mersey. Roger granted to Nigellus, a Norman knight, three
hides and half-a-carucate of land within Salford Hundred. The family of Greslet, as they are styled in the
Domesday Survey, or Greilly, as they are designated in the Battle-Roll Catalogue of Hastings Abbey, came
over with the Conqueror, and held the whole hundred of Blackburn, in connection with Roger de Busli, on
the same tenure as the possessions held by Nigellus in Salford Hundred. Albert Greilly, the favourite of
Roger de Poictou, is supposed to have held a large tract of land in the hundred of Salford, of which Horwich
1 See chap. iii. Salford Corporation. Though this charter is undated, as earl
2 Mr. Baines here prints an inaccurate copy of the original grant ºn tº ºf Lincoln, which he became in 1217, it
in much abbreviated Latin, and nowhere supplies a translation. It is §º.i.sº tº. . 3. º*"...".
g in Engli • --L-Le & 3 JUI e ', - € 8, UOll
thought preferable to give the charter in English only.—H two years, 1230-31, so that, in all probability, the charter was
* Records in the Office of the Duchy of Lancaster, Bundle R, granted in 1230, or early in 1231. In Mr. Baines's copy of it four
No. 13, i. The Original charter is among the archives of the of the witnesses' names are omitted.—H.
2 N
274 Ciſc jºigturn of £ancashire.
Moor was the centre, and which long afterwards constituted the “Upper Bailiwick” of the lordship of Mame-
cestre. As early as the year 1131 we find Robert de Greslei exercising lordship over these possessions, by
bestowing upon the monastery at Swineshead, in Lincolnshire, the Lord's Mill at Manchester, “at which
lordship,” says Dugdale, “he held his principal seat.” This Robert, the son of Albert above mentioned, was
therefore the second baron ; and as the father is mentioned as giving four bovates of land in frank-alms to
the church of Manchester, the probability is that Dr. Kuerden is correct in calling Albert Grelley the first
lord of Manchester. Robert had a son, named Albert, who married Maud, the co-heiress of Fitz-Nigel, the
baron of Halton and Widness; and it has been supposed by some that the barony of Manchester was part of
the lady Maud's dowry, or, at least, that it was by this marriage passed into the family of Grelley. The
marriage, however, took place after the time that we find the lordship in connection with the Grelleys. We
shall now briefly sketch the succession of the lords, and the descent of the manor.”
BARONY OF MANCHESTER.
THE GRESLETS.
So far as is known there were of the house of Greilly, Greslet, or Gresley, in succession, eight barons or lords of Manchester—
viz. I. ALBERT, the favourite of Roger de Poictou, temp. Wm. I. and Wm. II. (A.D. 1086-1100), who probably held lands “in a wide
circle of territory within Salford Hundred, of which Horwich Moor was the centre.” He was succeeded by his son, II. RoPERT, temp.
Wm. II. and Hen. I. (; 1100-1135), who is named with his son (in a charter of 1316) as the joint founder of the Cistercian Abbey
of Swineshead, Co. Lincoln, and who, in 1131, gave to that abbey his mill at Mamecestre. He is supposed to have died about
1135, and was succeeded by his son, III. ALBERT, called “Senex,” or “Old Albert,” to distinguish him from his son. He lived
temp. Stephen and Hen. II. (; 1135-1166), and married Agnes, or Matilda (Maud), daughter of William Fitz-Nigel, baron of
Halton and Widnes and constable of Chester, with whom he acquired lands in the upper bailiwick of the barony of Mamecestre,
including Raynford, Childwall, Cuerdley, and the townships of Allerton, Garston, and Hale, all in the parish of Childwall, near
Liverpool. Amongst his grants of land (according to the Testa de Nevill) were-To Orme Fitz-Ailward or Eward (with his youngest
child, Emma, in marriage), one knight's fee in Dalton, Parbold, and Wrightington; also, for 10s. yearly, one carucate of land in
Eston (i.e. Orme-Eston or Urmston); to Henry Fitz-Seward one carucate in Flixton for 10s, yearly ; to Ulric of Mamecestre four
oxgangs of his lordship in Mamecestre for 5s. yearly ; to Robert Bracebrigge two oxgangs of his lordship in Mamecestre for 4s.
yearly ; to the church of Mamecestre, in alms, four oxgangs of his demesne, supposed to be the site of the old parsonage, Deansgate,
Mamecestre; to the abbey of Swineshead, in alms, one croft named Wythacres or Whitacres. He is supposed to have died in or
before 1166, and was succeeded by his son, IV. ALBERT Juvenis, or “Young Albert,” who lived temp. Hen. II. (: 1166-1182). In
1166 he confirmed the grants of his grandfather and father to Swineshead Abbey. He married Isabel, or Elizabeth, daughter of
Thomas Basset, who survived him and married Guy de Creon for her second husband. According to the Testa de Nevill, this
Albert gave to Thomas de Perponte three carucates of land in Ruhwinton [Rivington] and Lestoc for the third part of one knight's
fee; to William Noreus [Norreys] two carucates in Heton for 10s. [yearly]; to Alexander, son of Umoch, two oxgangs of land in Little
Lofre [Lever] for half-a-mark [6s. 8d.] and 12d. or one eyas-hawk yearly; to Elias de Pennilbury, Slivehall, for 12d, or one eyas-hawk
yearly; to Robert, son of Henry, two oxgangs of land in Milafeshurh [? Mel-shaw Lache, from Mill, Minshull, Mickle, or Mersey] for 3s.
yearly. When he died is unknown ; but he was dead in 1182, and was succeeded by his son, W. ROBERT, temp. Hen. II., Rich. I.,
John, and Hen. III. (; 1182-1230). He was born about 1175, and, being a child at his father's death, was placed during his nonage under
the guardianship of his mother Isabel, and his uncle Gilbert Basset. On coming of age, 6 Rich. I. (1195), he did homage, and was
invested with his lands. He was the first Greslet known to have lived in Mamecestre—viz. at the Baron's Yard or Hull, on the site of
Chetham's hospital, School, and library. He made many grants or sub-infeudations of land to his followers and tenants. In the Testa,
de Nevill he is stated to have held twelve knights’ fees in the county, within and without the line [or boundary]. One of these fees was
held by Matthew [? Haversege], son of William, and Roger, son of William, in Withington, of ancient tenure by the service of finding
a judge [for the Mamecestre Court Baron]. Gilbert de Newton [or Notton], with the Lady [Edith] of Barton [his wife], held one fee
and a half there of this Robert. Thomas de Withington, half-a-fee of ancient tenure. Richard, son of Robert [de Lathom], five
and a half carucates of land (viz. three in Childwall, one in Aspull, one in Turton, and half-a-fee in Brochells, or Brockholes),
“wherefore 6% carucates make one knight's fee.” Roger de Samlesbury and Alexander [de Harewood] held six carucates in Hare-
wood of the said fee ; also an oxgang for 3s. yearly in Chapples [Sharples]. Alexander de Pakinton [Pilkinton] held of this Robert
one-fourth of a fee, and was to find one judge, of ancient tenure. To Robert de Bury the elder this baron gave fourteen oxgangs of
land of his lordship of Mamecestre for half of one knight's service. To Ralph de Emecote [? Ancoats] two oxgangs of his lordship of
Mamecestre, for 6s. 8d. yearly. To Aca, the clerk, one [oxgang of] land of his lordship of Mamecestre, for 3s. [yearly]. This is.
supposed to be the Acres Field, Four Acres, etc., the site of St. Ann's Square and the surrounding streets. Dr. Hibbert-Ware says
that this Robert granted lands to tenants of the old Saxon stocks bearing the names of the places where they settled—viz. Hulme,
Worthington, Prestwich, Withington, Chorlton, Cheetham, Middleton, Hest in Middleton, Hulton, Pendlebury, Clifton, Notton
or Newton, and Failsworth. In 1222, and again in 1227, he obtained a charter for a yearly fair in Mamecestre.* The possessions
of Robert Greslet in that part of Salford Hundred which afterwards formed the upper bailiwick of the barony, comprised a tract of
about ten miles from north to south, varying in breadth from six to eight miles, including Anlezargh, Sharples, Longworth, Rivington,
Turton, Smithells, Halliwell, Harwood, Little Lever, Bradshaw, Horwich, Heton, Lostock, Rumworth, Pilkington, Dean, Aspull,
West Houghton, Hulton, and Farnworth. The lower bailiwick, as possessed by this baron, seems to have been bounded by the
Irwell, Ashton-under-Lyne, the Tame, and the Mersey. Robert is said to have married a daughter of Henry de Longchamp (brother
of William, chancellor to Richard I.), with whom he had the lordship of Werlingham and Weston, Co. Norfolk. Robert died in
1 Monast. i. 773.
* Baron. ii. 608.
8 Mr. Baines derived his sketch from Dr. Kuerden's Fo. MS.,
p. 271, in the Chetham Library; but it is so very inaccurate, so
redundant in places, so defective in others, that we cannot reprint
it, but have substituted a brief sketch, on better authorities, from
Mr. Harland’s Ma'mecestre.—H.
* The first was only a temporary grant, in the minority of Henry
III., made really by the regent, Hubert de Burgh. It is dated
Lewknor, August 11, 1222, and sets forth that Robert Greslet gives
to the king one palfrey to have a fair, until the full age of the king,
every year at his manor of Mamecestre, during two days, the eve
and day of St. Matthew the Apostle [September 20th and 21st).
In 1227 Henry III. came of age, and then Robert Greslet obtained
a grant of a fair for ever during three days, the eve, day, and mor-
row of St. Matthew, so that the said fair be not to the harm of
neighbouring fairs; and to have the said fair well and in peace,
freely, quietly, and honourably, with all liberties and free customs
to this kind of fair belonging. The witnesses to this grant were—
Hubert de Burgh, earl of Kent and judiciary of England; Richard
[Plantagenet], earl of Cornwall, our brother; William, earl of
Albemarle ; Hugh de Mortemar ; Brian de L'Isle; Philip de Al-
bini; Ralph Gernun; Richard de Argentine, and others. Dated
Farringdon, 19th August 1227.-H. - -
#umbren of Šalfort—ſºlamriještet #arish. 275
1231, and was succeeded by his son, WI. THOMAS, then only three years old, who lived temp. Hen. III. (1231-1262), and, in 1249, on
attaining full age, obtained from that king a grant of free warren in all his demesne or lordship lands of Mamecestre and of Willanesham,
Co. Suffolk." In 1259-60 he was appointed justiciar of the king's forests south of the Trent. He held, according to one account,
five and a half knights’ fees in Lancashire, and six and a third knights’ fees in Lindsey (Co. Lincoln) in the honor of Lancaster.
The Testa de Nevill gives the following statement of his fees in Lancashire–Gilbert Barton holds one and a half knight's fee in that
place of the fee of Thomas de Greslet; Matthew de Haversege holds one knight's fee in Withington of the said fee; Robert de Lathom
holds one knight's fee in Childwall, and one-fourth of a knight's fee in Parbold, and three parts of a fee in Wrothinton, of the said fee;
Richard de Perpund holds one-third of a fee in Rumheworth of the said fee; William de Worthenton holds half-a-fee in the same will
of the said fee; Roger de Pilkinton holds one-fourth of a fee in the same will of the said fee. Thomas Greslet died 46 Hen. III. (1261-2),
and, his eldest son and heir Robert having predeceased him, he was succeeded by his grandson, VII. ROBERT, who lived temp. Hem.
III. and Edw. I. (1262–1282). He succeeded his grandfather when about ten years of age, and his guardian during minority was
Edmund Crouchback, first earl of Lancaster. During some years of his life, his uncle Peter Greslet was “custos” or keeper of the
church of Mamecestre, but he never held the barony or manor. Robert married Hawise, a younger daughter and co-heiress of John
de Burgh (she was twenty-four years of age in 1280, and then his wife), who survived him. Amongst his grants are lands at Westwood,
in [Worsley, inj Barton, to the abbey of Stanlaw, Co. Chester; and to Whalley Abbey and the church of Mariden [St. Mary's, Dean]
he confirmed a grant by Thomas de Perpount of the latter's lands near the chapel. He died in his homage 15th February 1282
(in which year three inquisitions were held as to his possessions), being then about thirty years of age, leaving, VIII. THOMAS, his
son and heir, then only about two years old, being recorded as twenty years of age on the 1st February 1299. During his minority
the custody of the barony was granted to Amadeus de Savoy. Thomas Greslet lived temp. Edw. I. and Edw. II. (1282-1313). He
never married. He was only twenty-two when he granted the charter to Mamecestre, under which that town was governed for more
than five centuries, with all the peculiar customs of the old feudal and manorial law. . In March 1309, when only thirty years of age,
he seems to have granted the manor of Mamecestre to John la Warre, baron of Wickwar, county Gloucester, and to his wife Joan
or Joanna, Greslet's sister and sole heir. Thus, after the Greslets had held large possessions in Lancashire for about 220 years, from
the latter part of the eleventh to the beginning of the fourteenth centuries, a great part of those possessions, including the barony
and manor of Mamecestre, passed by distaff to the Iords de la Warre. Before noticing the successive lords of Mamecestre of that
house, it is fitting here to place on record a translation of Thomas Greslet's charter to Mamecestre.
MANCHESTER CHARTER—–1301.2
Know [all] present and to come that I, Thomas Grelle, have given and granted, and by this my present charter have confirmed,
to all my burgesses of Mamecestre, to wit—[1] That all the burgesses shall pay for every one of their burgages twelve pence by the
year for [or in lieu of all service... [2] And if the reeve of the town [prefectus ville] shall challenge [or make claim against] any
burgess of any plea, and the challenged shall not come on the day, nor any one for him, into the Lagh-mote, he is in forfeiture
twelve pence to the said lord. And the said lord shall have his plea [or action] against him in the Porte-man-mote. [3] Also, if
any burgess shall implead any burgess of ſor for] any debt, and he [the debtor] shall acknowledge the debt, the reeve may appoint
him a day—to wit, the eighth ; and if he shall not come at the day, he shall pay twelve pence for forfeiture of the day to the
aforesaid lord; and he shall pay the debt, and to the reeve eight pence. [4] And if any one maketh complaint of anything, and
shall not find surety and bondsmen, and afterwards is willing to withdraw his complaint, he shall be without forfeiture. [5]. Also,
if any burgess in the borough shall wound any burgess on the Lord's Day, or from noon on Saturday until Monday, he shall be in
forfeiture of twenty shillings. And if on Monday, or on the other days of the week, he shall wound any one, he shall fall into [or
incur] the penalty of twelve pence towards the aforesaid lord. [6]. Also, if any burgess shall quarrel [or strive, certaverit] with any
one, and through anger shall strike him, without bloodshed, and shall be able to return to his house without challenge of the reeve,
or his servants, he shall be free from plea from the reeve. And if he shall be able to sustain [or justify] the assault against him on
whom he committed it, he shall do well. But if, nevertheless, by the counsel of his friends, he make peace with him, this also [he
may do] without forfeiture to the reeve. [7] Also, if any one shall be impleaded in the borough of any plea, he need not make
answer either to burgess or villein, save in his Porte-man-mote, nor even to a Vavasour, except to a plea that belongeth to the
king's Crown, and in one for robbery [or theft, latrocínio]. [8] Also, if any one accuse another burgess of theft [latrocinio], the
reeve may attach him [the accused] to make answer in the lord's court, and to abide [its] judgment. [9] Also, if any one shall be
impleaded of his neighbour, or of any one, and shall be in Suit [or in attendance] three days, if he shall have testimony of the reeve
and of his neighbours of the Porte-man-mote that his adversary hath defaulted [been absent] on those three days, after that he
shall give no answer to him upon that plea. [10] Also, the aforesaid burgesses shall follow [do suit at the mill of the aforesaid
lord, and his oven [or bakehouse]; paying to the aforesaid mill and the aforesaid oven the customs as they ought and are wont to
do. [11] Also, the burgesses ought, and have power, to choose the reeve of themselves, whom they will, and to remove the reeve.
[12] Also, no one can put his neighbour to his oath, unless he have suit of some complaint [clamorem.] [against him]. [13] Also,
no one can receive [in purchase] anything within the town, save by the view of the reeve. [14] Also, it shall be lawful for any one
to sell or give his land, which is not of inheritance, if he shall fall into necessity, to whomsoever he will, unless his heir will bu
it. But the heir ought to be the nearest [or first] to have the buying of it of him. [15] Also, every one can sell [land] of his
inheritance, whether more or less, or the whole, by consent of his heir. And if, perchance, the heir be unwilling, nevertheless, if
he [the burgess] shall fall into necessity, it shall be lawful for him to sell what is of his inheritance, whatever age the heir may be.
[16] Also, the reeve ought to deliver [or give possession] to every burgess and to the farmers [or renters] their shops [or sheds] in
the market-place, and the reeve ought therefor to receive one penny, to the use of the aforesaid lord. [17] If a burgess or a farmer
will stand in the shops [or sheds] of the merchants, he ought to agree to pay [or, perhaps, pay beforehand, pacare] to the aforesaid
lord, as much as a stranger. And if he stand in his proper shop [or shed], then he is to give nothing to the aforesaid lord. [18]
Also the burgesses may fatten their swine which are nearly fattened, in the woods of the lord, except in the forests and parks of the
aforesaid lord, until the term [or time] of pannage. And if they will, at the aforesaid term, withdraw, it shall be lawful for them,
without license of the lord. And if they will make stay there for the term of pannage, for the pannage they shall satisfy the afore-
said lord. [19] Also, if any one shall be impleaded before the day of the Lagh-mote, and shall then come, it behoveth him to
answer, and he ought not to essoin [excuse] himself, without forfeiture. And if he shall then [on the Lagh-mote day] be first
impleaded, then he shall have the first day [i.e. in which to answer]. [20]. Also the burgesses may arrest [namare] men, whether
knights, or priests, or clerks, for their debts, if they shall be found in the borough. [21] Also, if necessity fall that any one sell
his burgage, he may receive [or rent] another burgage of his neighbour. And every burgess may deliver [i.e. let, or give possession
of] his burgage to his neighbour, by the view of his co-burgesses. [22] Also, it may be lawful for the aforesaid burgesses to deliver
* A copy of this grant is preserved amongst the records of the ence), the wood of Aldport (a mile in circumference), the park of
Court of Chancery. It is dated Woodstock, 23d July, 33 Hen. III. Blakeley, etc.—H.
(1249), and imposes a penalty of £10 on any one hunting in this * This translation has been carefully made from the original char.
warren without the leave and license of Greslet. Dr. Hibbert-Ware ter, which is still in good preservation, with dark green seal attached,
supposed this warren to extend over the forest of Horwich, then among the archives of the Manchester corporation, and of which a
part of the barony of Manchester (then sixteen miles in circumfer- facsimile photograph is given in Mr. Harland’s Mamecestre.— H.
*
276 Qſìje 3%igtorg of 3Lantagijire.
[convey, or give possession of tradere] their own proper chattels to whomsoever they will, within the fee of the aforesaid lord,
freely, without license from the aforesaid lord. . [23] Also, if a burgess lend [commodaverit—i.e. lend things to be returned in kind]
anything to a man-villein in the borough, and the term [of the loanj thereof shall expire in the borough, he may take a distress
upon [the goods of the villein, and by his distress may certify him. And he may restore the distress [or goods distrained] by ſor on
the security of] bondsmen, even to the end of eight days, and then the bondsmen, may return either the distress or the money.
[24] Also, a burgess, of whomsoever he shall buy or sell within the fee of the aforesaid lord, shall be free from toll. And if any one
of another shire [or town] shall come, who ought to pay customs, and shall depart with the toll, withholding it from the reeve or
from other of his [servants], he shall be in forfeiture twelve pence to the use of the lord. And he shall pay his toll. [25] And if
any one shall lend to another anything, without witness, he [the borrower] need not make any answer, unless he [the lender] shall
have witness [or evidence, testimonium]. And if he [the lender] shall have witness, he [the borrower] may deny it by the oaths of
two men. [26] Also, whoso breaketh the assise, whether of bread or of ale, he shall be in forfeiture of twelve pence to the use of
the lord. [27] Also, if any one shall wound another in the borough, the reeve ought to attach him, if he shall be found outside his
house, by surety and bondsmen. [28] Also, every one ought to be, and may be, at plea [or impleaded] for his wife and for his
family; and the wife of every one may pay his rent to the reeve, and follow a plea [or attend a suit] for her husband, if he shall
perchance be elsewhere. [29] Also, if any villein shall make claim of anything of burgesses, they [the burgesses] ought not to make
answer to him, unless he shall have the suit of [or from] burgesses or other lawful [or law-worthy] men. [30] Also, a burgess, if he
shall have no heir, may bequeath his burgage and his chattels, when he dies, wheresoever he shall please, saving however the lord's
Service. [31] Also, if any burgess die, his wife ought to remain in the house ; and there she may have necessaries, as long as she
wills to be without a husband, and the heir with her. And when she will marry, she shall depart, and the heir shall remain there
as the lord [or master]. [32] Also, if a burgess die, his heir shall give no other relief to the aforesaid lord, save arms of some [or
whatsoever] kind. [33] If a burgess sell his burgage, and willeth to depart from the town, he shall give to the lord four pence,
and he may go freely whithersoever he will. [34] Moreover, all the pleas aforesaid shall be determined before the steward, by the
enrolment of the clerk of the said lord. [35] And all the aforenamed liberties, I, the aforesaid Thomas, and my heirs, will hold to
the aforesaid burgesses and their heirs for ever ; Saving to me and my heirs reasonable talliage when the lord the king shall make
talliage upon his free boroughs throughout England. And that this gift and grant may be ratified and established, I have confirmed
this writing by the affixing [thereto] my seal. These being witnesses: Sirs John Byron, Richard Byron, knights; Henry de
Trafford, Richard de Hulton, Adam de Prestwyche, Roger de Pylkington, Geoffrey de Chaderton, Richard de Moston, John de
Prestwyche, and others. Given at Mamecestre, the 14th day of May in the year of the Lord 1301, and in the year of the reign of
Ring Edward, son of King Henry [Edward I.] the 29th. [On the foot-fold] Let this be exemplified by Vidimus [letters patent so
called] on the 16th day of September 1623, in the 21st James I., etc. (Signed) CHR. BANASTRE.1
THE DE LA WARRES.
A few years after granting the charter to Mamecestre, Thomas Greslet, the last baron of the family, attended by several
Lancashire gentlemen, went to reside with his sister and brother-in-law, Joan and Sir John la Warre, at Wickwar, Co.
Gloucester, where he seems to have spent the remainder of his life. Whilst there, in March 1309, he made a formal grant of his
manor of Mamecestre and the advowson of the churches of Mamecestre and Ashton-under-Lyne, to John la Warre, knight, and
Joan his wife, subject to a yearly payment to himself during his life of 100 marks (£66 : 13:4).” Notwithstanding this grant,
Thomas Greslet was summoned to parliament and to serve in the wars, as baron of Mamecestre, from 1307 to 1313, the year of his
death. The ninth baron of Mamecestre was, IX. JoHN, eldest son of Roger la Warre, by Clarice his wife, eldest daughter and
co-heir of John, Baron Tregoz, of Ewyas Harold, Co. Hereford. John married Joan, sister and heir of Thomas Greslet, eighth
baron of Mamecestre, and thus succeeded to the barony, which he seems to have alienated in the 14th Edw. II. (1310-11), and
consequently in the lifetime of Thomas Greslet, to the abbey of Dore, county Hereford, but it reverted to him, as an escheat
from the abbey, in 19 Edw. II. (1325-6). John la Warre was a warrior from his youth. In 1297 he was in the expedition to
Flanders; in 1298, and during the remainder of the reign of Edward I., he was constantly in the wars with Scotland. In June
1340, he was in the great sea-fight off Sluys, when Edward III. defeated the French fleet of 400 sail, taking 230 ships and sinking
the rest ; and two years afterwards he was at the siege of Nantes. He also distinguished himself at the battle of Cressy, August
25, 1346, where he was in the van with the Black Prince ; and he died at an advanced age in 1347, and was succeeded by his
grandson and heir, X. ROGER LA WARRE, son of John la Warre (who died about 1340, in his father's lifetime), by his wife
Margaret, daughter of Sir Robert de Holand. Roger married Elizabeth, daughter of Adam, third Baron Welles, by whom he had
two sons, John and Thomas; the latter was a priest in holy orders, who late in life founded the collegiate church of Manchester.
Roger's second wife was Elenor or Alianora, daughter of John, Lord Mowbray, by whom he had a daughter, Joan or Joanna,
married to Thomas, third Baron West. Roger distinguished himself as highly at Poictiers as his grandfather had done at Cressy;
and, being one of the knights to whom the French king (John) Surrendered, he was allowed to bear on his coat-of-arms, as an
augmentation of honour, “a crampet or ’’ (i.e. the transverse guard of the French king's Sword). He fought in the French wars for
Some years afterwards; and dying, 44 Edw. III. (1370), he was succeeded by his eldest son and heir, XI. JoHN LA WARRE, then
twenty-six years of age. Both before and after his father's death, Sir John was in the wars of Gascony with Prince Edward. He
died 27th of July, 22 Rich. II. (1398), unmarried. He was consequently succeeded by his brother, XII. THOMAS LA WARRE,
priest, and then rector and lord of Mamecestre. He alienated the barony and estates from his heir-at-law, Sir Nicholas Griffin,
and, by a process of law called “deforcing a levy,” settled them upon his half-sister Joan or Joanna, wife of Thomas Lord West,
and her issue. He collegiated and further endowed the parish church of Mamecestre in 1421; died in 5 Hen. VI. (1426-7), and
* The burgesses of Mamecestre, on 16th September 1623, peti-
tioned for and procured the enrolment of the charter of 1301 in the
records of the chancery of the duchy. On the 18th, an exemplifica-
tion or inspexinus of the charter was granted, setting forth the
charter at length, so that if the original should be lost, its exact
terms could be recovered from the rolls of the chancery of the
duchy, while the exemplification, or official copy of the highest
authority, was safely lodged in the boroughreeve's chest, now the
depository of the corporation archives, Town Hall, for the use and
inspection of the burgesses, to whom it would be more legible,
perhaps, than even the original charter itself. The charter was
translated in 1657 by William Heawood, gentleman, steward of the
lord of the manor ; and again (much more accurately) in 1787 by
the Rev. John Whitaker, the historian of Manchester. The transla-
tion printed in the first edition of this work (vol. ii. p. 175) is that
of Heawood, and is full of inaccuracies.—H.
* In this grant he calls himself “Thomas Grelle, son and heir of
Sir Robert Grelle, knight,” and after giving to Sir John and Joan,
and the heirs of Sir John, for ever, the manor of Mamecestre, with
appurtenances, with the advowsons of the churches of Mamecestre
and Ashton-under-Lyne, he adds, “And whatsoever I had there, or
elsewhere, or may have of right, as in homages, rents, knights'
fees, escheats, villeins and their offspring, goods and chattels,
meadows, pastures, mills, waters, fisheries, woods, chases, moors,
marshes, liberties, free customs, reversions whatsoever, and all other
things to the said manor belonging.” The annuity is to be paid to
himself yearly at Christmas ; to cease at his death. The seal to
this grant is not that of the grantor but of the grantee, bearing both
the arms and legend of “John, Lord la Warre.” Of the nineteen
witnesses, the following are the only known Lancashire names:–
Henry de Trafford, knight; Richard de Hilton [Hulton], Adam de
Rossendale, and Geoffrey de Chaderton. The date of the grant is
March 14, 1309.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arisiſ. 277
was succeeded in his estates and titles by his sister's son, Sir Reginald West, fifth Baron West. Thus the barony and manor of
Mamecestre, after being held by four La Warres, during about 114 years, again passed by distaff to
THE WEST.S.
XIII. Sir REGINALD WEST was the second son of Thomas West, third Baron West, and Joan la Warre ; his elder brother
Thomas, fourth baron, died in 1415, without issue, predeceasing Thomas la Warre. Reginald was summoned to parliament in July
1427, as “Baron de la Warre,” in right of his mother, and the barony of West merged in that of De la Warre (now Delawarr).
Born in 1394, Reginald was about thirty-two when he became the first lord of Mamecestre of his family. He made pilgrimages
to Rome and the Holy Land. Dying on the 27th August, 29 Hen. VI. (1451), aged about fifty-seven, he was succeeded by his son
and heir, XIV. Sir RICHARD WEST, then only nineteen. He was an active partisan of the house of Lancaster in the wars of the
Roses. He was twice married, but left issue only by his first wife, Catherine, daughter of Robert, Lord Hungerford—five sons and
two daughters. He died, probably on 10th March, 16 Edw." IV. (1476), and it was in his lifetime, as well as in that of his son
Thomas, fifteenth baron of Manchester, that a rental was made of his possessions in the manor of Mamecestre, on the 15th May
1473.1 Reginald was succeeded by his son and heir, XV. THOMAS, eighth Baron de la Warre and fifteenth lord of Mamecestre,
who in his eighteenth or nineteenth year was fighting in the wars in France (1474), and while still a minor obtained a special livery
of his lands, 1st September 1475. He was in great favour with Henry VII., whom he aided in obtaining the crown, and who in 1485-6
gave him a large grant of castles, baronies, honours, lordships, boroughs, and towns in Sussex, etc., which had fallen to the Crown
by the attainder of John Howard, duke of Norfolk, slain in the battle of Bosworth. He held several high military commands, was
made K.G. in May 1510, and a knight-banneret at the battle of the Spurs. He was twice married—first to Elizabeth, daughter of
Hugh Mortimer of Mortimer's Hall, county Southampton; and secondly to Eleanor, daughter of Sir Roger Copley of Gatton. By
his will (8th Oct. 1524) he made Eleanor, his wife, sole executrix, and settled most of his estates on his eldest son and heir-apparent,
Sir Thomas West; in default to Owen West his son (by his second wife), with remainders. He died about January 1526, and was
succeeded by his eldest son, XVI. THOMAS, ninth Baron de la Warre, and sixteenth lord of Mamecestre, who died 25th September
1554, leaving no issue; and by an inquisition of June 6, 1555, it was found that he died seised of the manor of Mamecestre and the
advowson of the church. In 1543 he executed a deed of entail of the manor of Manchester to himself for life ; remainder (in default of
issue-male) to his [half] brother Sir Owen West, knight, and his heirs-male ; then to the heirs-male of his brother Sir George, with
further remainders; and this was legalised and authorised by an act of parliament of 4th November 3 Edw. VI. (1552). Under these
circumstances the next baron (not by writ but by patent) was, XVII. WILLIAM WEST, son and heir of Sir George, second son of
Thomas, eighth, and half-brother of Thomas, ninth Baron de la Warre. This William, having attempted to poison his half-uncle
Thomas, was, by an act of 2 Edw. VI. (1548), disabled from succeeding in honours and estate. But he was created Baron de la
Warre by patent of 5th February 1570, and was restored in blood. He died on the 30th December 1595, and was succeeded by his son
and heir, XVIII. Sir THOMAs, knight, then aged forty, who was restored to the precedency of the old barony of La Warre. He was
the last of the Wests connected with Manchester ; for on the 15th May, 21 Eliz. (1579), by indenture, he and his son and heir-
apparent William West, in consideration of £3000, did grant, bargain, and sell to John Lacye, citizen and cloth-worker of London,
and to his heirs and assigns for ever, “all the manor, lordship, and seignory of Manchester, with its appurtenances, with all court-
leets, views of frank-pledge, fairs, markets, tolls, liberties, customs, privileges, free-warren, jurisdiction, etc., to the same manor
belonging.” Owing, however, to some unexplained cause, John Lacye was not recognised as lord of the manor till April 1582. On
the 23d March, 38 Eliz. (1596), John Lacye sold to his friend Nicholas Mosley, esq., citizen and alderman of London, and to
Rowland Mosley, his son and heir-apparent, and their heirs and assigns, all the said manor, lordship, and seignory of Manchester
as aforesaid, for the sum of £3500. For about two hundred and fifty years the manor was held by the Mosleys, and a brief
enumeration of the successive lords of the manor of the family will close this sketch of its lords.
THE MOSLEYS. -
I. Sir NICHOLAs, second son of Edward Mosley of Hough End, Didsbury, gentleman, was elected Lord Mayor of London in 1599
(three years after purchasing the manor), and was knighted by Queen Elizabeth during his mayoralty. He was sheriff of Lancashire
in 1604, and died 12th November 1612, aged 85. He was succeeded by his eldest son and heir, II. RowLAND MOSLEY of Hough End,
esq., who died while high-sheriff of Lancashire in 1616, leaving (by his second wife) his son and heir, III. Sir EDWARD, created a
baronet July 20, 1640, by Charles I., and who suffered heavily as a royalist by the civil war. He died in 1657, in his 42d year,
and was succeeded by his son, then 18 years old, IV. Sir EDWARD, the second baronet of the name. He married Catherine,
daughter of Lord Gray of Wark, and died in the first year of his marriage, aged only 27, without issue, and the title became
extinct. His will was the cause of much litigation ; the manor was for a time in the hands of his executors, and again of his
widow, who had married Sir Charles (afterwards Lord) North ; and though by this will he had bequeathed the manor to his
nephew, who nominally succeeded in 1665, he did not really hold the manor till about 1672. This nephew, W. Sir EDWARD of
Hulme, knight, was the second son of Oswald, the eldest son of Anthony of Ancoats, the younger brother of Sir Nicholas, the
purchaser of the manor. This Sir Edward was a barrister and afterwards an Irish judge. All his sons died; only one daughter
survived, to whom a life-interest in the manor had been secured in remainder by a family compromise. Sir Edward dying in 1693,
in his 77th year, was succeeded by this, his sole daughter and heiress, WI. ANN, who was married to Sir John Bland. After the
death of her parents and husband she resided at Hulme Hall, and in her later years intrusted the chief management of the manor,
etc., to Sir Oswald Mosley, baronet, her second cousin, who, under her father's will and by the family arrangement, succeeded after
her death, in her 70th year, in July 1734. The next lord of the manor was, VII. Sir OswalD MOSLEY (eldest son of Oswald Mosley
of Ancoats, esq.), who was created a baronet by George I. in 1720. On his father's death (aged 87) in 1726, Sir Oswald inherited
both the Ancoats and Rolleston estates, and at the death of Lady Bland in 1734 he succeeded to the manor of Manchester. He died
at Rolleston 10th June 1751, and was succeeded in his title and estates by his eldest son, VIII. Sir OswalD, who chiefly resided at Rolles-
ton, and died there, 26th February 1757, in his 52d year, and unmarried. He was succeeded by his only brother, IX. The Rev. Sir John
Mosſ, EY, Bart., who also died unmarried, in May 1779, in his 77th year, and was succeeded by his second cousin, X. Sir JoHN PARKER
MoSIEY, created a baronet 24th March 1781. He was the fourth and youngest son of Nicholas Mosley of Manchester, woollen draper
and merchant. He died on the 20th September 1798, in his 67th year; and his eldest son, Oswald of Rolleston and Bolesworth Castle
Cheshire, dying before him (27th July 1789), he was succeeded by the eldest son of that son, his grandson, XI. Sir Oswald MosLEy,
Bart., D.C.L., of Rolleston Hall, the present baronet, and the last lord of the manor of Manchester of his family. By an agreement,
dated 24th June 1845, Sir Oswald sold the manor and manorial rights to the mayor and corporation of Manchester for the sum of
£200,000 (the inhabitants of Manchester having refused to give £90,000 in 1815); and they were finally conveyed to that body by deed
of May 5, 1846, just 250 years after their purchase by Sir Nicholas Mosley for £3500. Since their purchase the corporation have
possessed all the rights of “Lords of the Manor.” They have allowed quietly to lapse the half-yearly courts-leet, with the appoint-
ments of the old feudal functionaries, but they exercise the right of taking market-tolls, etc.; while the governing powers formerly
held by the boroughreeve and constables are vested either in the mayor alone, or in the mayor and corporation—i.e. the city council
and its various committees. Several public charities formerly entrusted for distribution to the boroughreeve, or to him and the
1 Of this Rental there is no notice in the first edition of this work. with a translation and notes, will be found in Mr. Harland’s Maine-
It is much too long for insertion here, but a copy of the original, cestre, vol. iii, cap. xviii. pp. 476-518.-H.
278 (ſiſt £istory of £antagijire.
constables jointly, for the time being, and thence called “The Boroughreeve's Charities,” are now administered by the mayor, and
styled “The Mayor's Charities.” Thus this old manor, after seven centuries, and a half, at length cast off the fetters of its
ancient feudality, and is now ruled by the freest constitution ever given to a municipality since liberty dawned in England.*
Probably there are few manors, at least in the north of England, which have so many documentary
details of their state at various early periods as that of Manchester. On the death of Robert Greslet, seventh
baron, leaving a son, an infant of only two or three years, no fewer than three Inquisitions were held at
Manchester within the year 1282, one before the escheator, April 25; an Extent before the sheriff, May 3 ;
and a second Extent before the sheriff, 12th September. There are the various entries relating to the manor
in the Testa de Nevill, and in the Lansdowne and other Feodaries. Then there was an official Survey of the
manor made for its then lord in 1320, followed within two years by the Extent of the manor in 1322.
Omitting all notice of minor documents, the last of these remarkable evidences is the Rental of Thomas
West, Lord la Warre, in May 1473. The great length of these documents (which would alone fill a volume)
necessitates their omission from the present work.” The only one of them given in its edition of 1836 is the
Extent of 1322; but this is so full of inaccuracies, and so imperfect, as to render it practically useless for
information.
The arms of Manchester, or rather those of the Greslets, lords of Manchester, assumed by the town,
were-Gules, three Bendlets enhanced Or, much resembling the arms of the Byrons, lords of the manor of
Rochdale, which are—Argent, three Bendlets enhanced Gules; and the similarity has been ascribed to the
service of the lords of Rochdale to the superior lords of Manchester; this, however, is a mere hypothesis, not
only unsupported by evidence, but opposed to the testimony of the Domesday Survey, from which it appears
that Rochdale was at the time of the Conquest an independent manor in possession of Gamel, a thane or
Saxon lord, who held one of the twenty-one berewicks or manors within the hundred of Salford.
The arms of the city and corporation of Manchester are:—Gules, three Bendlets enhanced Or, a chief
Argent, thereon, on waves of the sea, a ship under sail, proper. Crest—On a wreath of the colours a terrestrial
globe, semée of bees volant, all proper. Supporters—On the dexter side an heraldic antelope, Argent, attired,
collared, and chain reflexed over the back Or; and on the sinister side a lion gardant Or, murally crowned
Gules;–each charged on the shoulder with a rose of the last [i.e. the rose of Lancaster].
GRESLET.
L.A. W.A.R.R.E.
ARMS OF THE GRESLETS AND LA WARREs, EARLY LORDs of MANCHESTER.
1 For a more detailed account of the descent of the manor, and and explanatory notes, in Mr. Harland's Mamécestre (vols. 53, 56,
of its successive lords, the Greslets, La Warres, Wests, and Mosleys, and 58, of the Chetham Society's series), most of them being there
thereader is referred to Mr. Harland's Ma'mecestre, chap. iv. et seq.—H. printed for the first time, and the rest for the first time with any
2 They will all be found given at length, and with translations accuracy.—H.

#umbrel of Šalfort—ſtlantiješter 33arish. 279
Early Ecclesiastical History of Manchester—The Churches of St. Mary and St. Michael—Deanery of Manchester—
Rectory—Collegiate Foundation—Erection of the Collegiate Church—Will of Thomas del Booth—Manchester
constituted a Place of Sanctuary—Privilege of Asylum abolished—Collegiate Foundation dissolved: restored—
Succession of Wardens—The Cathedral : its Restorations—Other Churches—Chapels—Burial-Grounds—Places
of Worship, and Numbers of Sittings—Education of the Poor—Manchester Free Grammar-School: its Founda-
tion : Augmentation : Soke Mills—Revenues and Expenditure of the School—Exhibitions—Hulme's Exhibitions
—The Scheme of 1867–Present Feoffees of the School—High Masters—Chetham's Hospital and Library—
Governors—Boroughreeve's (now the Mayor's) Charities—Other Charities—Salford Charities—Charities of the
Out-townships of the Parish—Modern Charities of Manchester—Modern Societies and Institutions.
OLLEGIATE churches, like monastic institutions, are of considerable antiquity. But, as we
have already seen, the Collegiate Church of Manchester was not founded till the year 1421.
- At the period of the Domesday Survey we find two churches in or of Manchester, St. Mary's
jº) and St. Michael's, which held but one carucate of land in that place. Hollinworth conjectures
ºr that both these edifices stood in one churchyard; but the probability is that the site of St.
tºº §)\º Michael's was in Aldport, and that of St. Mary's in the place called Acres Field, near the top
of the present St. Mary's Gate." It has been stated already that Albert de Grelle gave to the church of
Manchester—it is not said to which of the churches; probably to both, as they appear to have had a com-
munity of interests—four bovates or oxgangs of land in frank-almoigne or free alms, about the time Didsbury
chapel, the first chapel of ease in the parish of Manchester, was erected (1235).
There seems strong ground for believing that there was at an early period a rural deanery of Manchester,
an office which combined ten churches under the jurisdiction of a decanus or dean, whose name implies a connec-
tion with that number. Whitaker, the historian of Manchester, without the least evidence, has placed a
rural dean in Manchester so early as the seventh century; but the office did not exist in England before the
eleventh, as shown by William Dansey, A.M., in his Horſe Decanicæ Rurales. The first evidence of a rural
dean of Manchester is given in a deed of April 1192 (Whalley Abbey Coucher Book, i. 39), which is witnessed,
amongst others, by “J. Decanus de Mamecestre.” One of the same or similar name is noticed in Hollinworth's
Mancuniensis—“In old evidence I find, anno 1235, ‘J. Decan : de Mamcestre.’ A “Jordanus, Decanus de Mame-
cestre, is named as living about 1268 (in Dodsworth's MSS. vol. 13); and ‘Johannes, Decanus de Mamecestre,’
as a witness to a deed temp. Edw. I. (in the same collection, vol. 133). In the same reign was a “Dominus
Galfridus, Decanus de Mamcestre’ (Ibid.), who is probably the same with a ‘Dominus G. Decanus Mamecestre’”
(Whalley Coucher Book, ii. 601). Finally may be named Thomas la Warre, the last sole rector of the parish
church of Manchester, who is also styled in documents of 1421 “Decanus Decanatus de Mamecestre.” Such
are the scanty notices of deans rural of Manchester during more than two centuries. Dr. Hibbert-Ware
seems to intimate the probability of the ten parishes forming this rural deanery being Manchester, Eccles,
Prestwich, Bury, Middleton, Rochdale, Ashton, Flixton, Blackburn, and Whalley. As to early rectors of
Manchester, Dr. Hibbert-Ware has given a list of thirteen, closing with Thomas la Warre, the last rector. In
a deed of 1194-5 the name of one witness is “Ranulphus de Welling, rector de Mamecestre.” An “Albert de
Neville, rector ecclesiae beatae Mariae de Mamecestre,” grants to a John de Byron lands in Newton, and is also
named in the Rot. Cur. Regis (ii. 161), temp. King John. Thomas Greslet, the sixth baron, by deed gave to
his second son Peter his churches of Mamecestre and Childwall, with the chapels of Ashton, Hale, and Garston;
and by an inquisition after the death of Thomas Greslet in 1261, it was found that he had not enfeoffed Peter of
the manor. Being the uncle of the patron, then a minor, Peter was declared “Custos,” keeper or warden, of
the church of Mamecestre ; and in the record of an assize-plea in Winchester he is styled “Petrus de
Greleigh, custos ecclesie de Mamecestre.” He may be regarded as one of the rectors, 1261-1284, being so
styled in two deeds of 9 and 12 Edward I. (1280 and 1284). In 1288, Thomas Greslet, then of full age,
stated, according to an inquisition, “that the church of Ashton was dependent on the church of Manchester ;
that Robert Grelle, his father, was patron of the churches of Manchester and Ashton ; and that he was under
age at the time the said Robert, his father, died ; and that William de Marchia, of his own act and deed,
* It has been suggested that St. Mary’s was not in Manchester Ashton church or chapel being appendant to that of Manchester.
at all, but only under Manchester, and at Ashton-under-Lyne ; both Ashton-under-Lyne was not made a separate parish till the
advowsons being long held by the barons of Mamecestre, and thirteenth century.—H.

280 (Uffe #igtúrg of £antagjire.
had usurped it [the rectory] while he [Thomas] was under age.” In another document of the time it is
stated that William de Marchia was parson of the church of Manchester, to which the chapel of Ashton is
annexed ; the living being then valued at 200 marks (£133: 6:8) yearly. This William de la Marchia was
treasurer of England from 1291 to 1295, in great favour with Edward I., and spending most of his time at
court, while holding the rectory of Manchester. In 1292 he was made bishop of Bath and Wells, and died
June 11, 1302. Walter de Langton succeeded William de Marchia as rector of Manchester. He also was
in favour with Edward I., and in 1292 was keeper of the great seal, lord-treasurer, etc. He did not resign
the rectory of Manchester on being elected bishop of Lichfield and Coventry in 1296, but only resigned it
to Otto de Grandison in 1299. In the 27th Edward I. (1299), Otto de Grandison was presented to the
rectory by John Griffin de Grandison; patron, the king. William de Grandison, “menial servant to
Edmund earl of Lancaster,” had three sons, of whom this Otto was the youngest. John Griffin held
rich prebends, and in 1327 was made bishop of Exeter. The Grandisons were in great favour with
the king, Otto subsequently quitted the church, served in the wars, married, and his son Thomas
succeeded to the barony of Grandison. In 1301 (says Hollinworth), Geoffrey de Stoke succeeded Otto
de Grandison as rector, at the presentation of Thomas Greslet, eighth baron. It would seem, as
already stated, that he was also rural dean. Among the copies of old deeds collected by the late Mr.
Thomas Barritt is a grant by “Galfridus de Mamecestre, capellanus,” of which Dr. Hibbert-Ware engraves the
seal (Foundations, iv. 77), in the belief that it shows him to have been a dean or sub-dean of Manchester; but
neither the deed nor the seal warrants this conclusion; the legend on the latter being, “S. Galfridi de
Mamcestr; capel'us.” (The seal of Geoffrey of Manchester, chaplain.) He may have been a rector, however;
perhaps the same person as Geoffrey de Stoke. From the Lichfield cartulary it would seem that in 6 Edward
II. (1313), February, a “Johannes Dekorden” was presented to the rectory; patron, Sir John la Warre. The
name of this rector has been variously guessed to be De Verdun, De Worden, De Kuerden, etc., and Dr.
Hibbert-Ware gives it as De Worden. In the Extent of 1322, it is stated that “the church of Mamecestre,
worth 200 marks [#133 : 6:8] is at the lord's presentation; to which Sir John de la Warre now last
presented John de Cuerden, who having been instituted in the same, possesses that endowment of eight
burgages in Mamecestre, the villages of Newton and Kirkmanshulme, with meadows, woods, pasture, and other
appurtenances.” A John de Ardena is supposed to have been the next rector, but the only deed (of July
1316) which names him, merely calls him “Sir John, son of Richard de Arden, chaplain.” From the Lichfield
cartulary we learn that in 16 Edward II. (1323) Adam de Southwick, clerk, was presented to the rectory;
patron, Sir John la Warre, knight, ninth baron of Mamecestre. In 1st Edward III. (1327), John de Claydon
priest, was instituted to the rectory after the death of Adam de Southwick, the last rector; patron, Sir John
la Warre. He had also a dispensation to absent himself from his church at the instance of Sir William
Herle, knight. Claydon was inducted by proxy, in the person of Thomas de Wyke. John de Claydon
enfeoffed John la Warre, and Joan his wife, of his manor of Woodhead for life, with remainder to their
descendants. He witnessed a grant of his patron's, on January 16, 1334, in which he is styled “parson of
Mamecestre.”
In 21 Edward III. (September 1351), Thomas de Wyke was presented to the rectory, after the death of
John de Claydon, the last rector; patron, Joan, widow of John la Warre, and surviving sister and heir of
Robert Greslet. In October 1352, this lady procured for “Thomas de Wyke, chaplain, rector of the church
of Mamecestre,” a license for study. Hollinworth states that Thomas la Warre, twelfth lord of Mamecestre,
was admitted rector ( in 1373, when he resigned the living of Ashton), and had a license granted him to be
non-resident, and that he was the last parson of Manchester ;--he means before the collegiation. As already
stated, this Thomas la Warre having become possessed of the barony and manor of Mamecestre, he obtained
a royal license for founding in the parish church of Mamecestre a collegiate church ; which license runs
thus:— -
“THAT as the venerable father in Christ, Thomas, Bishop of Durham ; John Henege; Nicholas Motte, incumbent of the church
of Swinehead ; Richard Lumbard, lately incumbent of the church of Hotham ; and Richard Frithe, hold the manor of Manchester
with its appurtenances, together with the advowson of the church of Manchester, by gift and feoffment of Thomas de la Warre,
clerk, the king, of his special favour, and in consideration of two hundred marks paid to him into the Hanaper Court; has granted
and given permission that they may erect, or cause to be erected by him to whom it belongs, the said church of Manchester into a
collegiate church, and that in and belonging to the said church they may be able to make, found, and establish a certain college,
with one master or warden, and as many fellows and other ministers as shall seem good to the said bishop, John, Nicholas, Richard,
and Richard, and to the said Thomas de la Warre.”
Of this collegiation the late Dr. Hibbert-Ware has given a very full and satisfactory account in his
“Ancient Parish Church of Manchester, and why it was Collegiated.”—(Foundations, etc., vol. iv.) It may
suffice here to state that Thomas la Warre's motives were to obviate the great evils of non-residence of the
rector, and consequent neglect of the cure of souls, by restricting the power of the patron, and placing the
rectory and church of Manchester for ever under the protection and care of a capitular body. In this step he
was greatly aided by Cardinal Langley, bishop of Durham, and by his own diocesan, William Heyworth,
1 Plac, T. Pasche, 32 Edward I. Rot. 71. - * Mamecestre, p. 404.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlanchester 33arígí,. 281
bishop of Lichfield and Coventry. All the powers, ecclesiastical and civil, having formally assented, the
churchwardens and parishioners of Manchester, including “various influential knights, esquires, and gentlemen,” 1
assembled in the parish church, called together by the tolling of the church-bell, and then and there expressed
their full consent, by petition to the bishop of Lichfield, dated 14th June 1421. The charter of foundation
granted by the bishop (reciting the royal license of Henry V. of 22d May preceding) was dated Heywood, 5th
August 1421. It declares the church of Manchester, dedicated to the Virgin Mary and the martyrs SS.
Dionysius and George, to be erected into a collegiate church, governed by one master or warden (a chaplain),
and eight fellows (chaplains) to live together in the college, and to be perpetually supported from its rents,
fruits, produce, and revenues. To the warden and his successors, it was declared, should belong the cure of
Souls and the government of the chaplains and other ministers serving in the collegiated church, and also of the
parishioners of the said church or college of Manchester. Special license was granted by the bishop of
Lichfield to the bishop of Durham and Thomas la Warre to frame and digest reasonable ordinances and
statutes for the government of the college. The episcopal right and jurisdiction of the see of Lichfield and
Coventry was to be continued in force over the church of Manchester; various small pensions were appointed
to be paid; the rights of the archdeaconry of Chester were reserved; and, in case of failure of paying the
pensions, the profits, rents, etc., of the college were to be sequestrated in satisfaction thereof.
The ecclesiastical establishment fixed upon subsequently by the feoffees under this foundation was one
Warden, eight fellows, four clerks, and six choristers; and it was ordained that divine service shall be
celebrated in the said church every day, for the good health of the king, and of the bishop, and of Thomas
de la Warre, and for the souls of their ancestors and the ancestors of the said Thomas de la Warre, as also
for the Souls of all the faithful departed, for ever; that the said master or warden and his successors shall be
called for ever the master or warden of The College of the Blessed Virgin of Manchester; that the said master
or warden and his successors shall be perpetually incumbents, and hold the benefices, lands, tenements, and
other possessions and emoluments; that they shall have a common seal; and that the said warden may
either indict, or be indicted, in the name of the warden of the said college. Permission is also granted to
the aforesaid John, Nicholas, Richard, and Richard, to give and assign five messuages and ten acres of land,
with their appurtenances in Manchester, Gorton, and Heton, which are parcels of the said manor, and the
advowson aforesaid, which are held from the king, as from the county palatine of Lancaster, to the said
master or warden and his fellows of the said college, when it shall have been erected, made, founded, and
established, in aid of their maintenances, and the maintenance of other ministers of the said college for ever.
Dr. Fuller says:–
“The endowment of this collegiate and parochial church was the glebe and tithes of the parsonage, which glebe was esteemed
to be about 800 acres of this county measure (about half as many more as of the statute measure”) besides a considerable part of the
town commonly called Deansgate (a corruption of Dionise-gate, to whom and to the Virgin Mary, and St. George, the church was
dedicated), built upon glebe land belonging to the church. As for the tithes of the parish, they lie in two-and-thirty hamlets, where-
with the collegiates were to be maintained, which were one warden and four fellows and the integrated and incorporate rector, unto
whom the parsonage was appropriated.”
The churches of St. Mary and St. Michael seem to have disappeared at an early period, and the only
edifice used for public worship in Manchester, at the beginning of the 15th century, was a large erection
of wood, which stood on or near the site of the present collegiate church, and which in its construction
resembled the booths wherein the courts-leet and courts-baron of the lord were held in more modern times.
The parishioners of Manchester cheerfully concurred in the munificent design of the great feudal lord to
found the collegiate church ; and the arms of Stanley, Radcliffe, and Byron, emblazoned on the windows of the
choir, prove that those families ranked amongst the pious benefactors. When this church was first built, the
wages of an artisan were 2d. a-day, and the cost of the college building is estimated at £3000, equal in value
to about £50,000 of our money. The form of the original collegiate structure was that of a cross, and the
church consisted of a body and two side-aisles. The choir was built by the first warden, JoHN HUNTINGTON,
bachelor in degrees, and rector of Ashton. This venerable and learned divine continued to occupy his
dignified station for thirty-seven years, and lies buried in the choir, with his effigy in sacerdotal vestments,
and the inscription, “Domine, dilexi decorem domus tuæ,” over his remains. The rebus of this warden is to
be seen on either side of the middle arch, indicated on the left side by hunting, and on the right by a tun,
perch of the statute acre, there are seven yards to the pole in the
Lancashire and eight in the Cheshire acre. The statute acre there-
fore contains 4840 yards; the Lancashire acre 78.40 yards; and the
Cheshire acre 10,240 yards ; thus calculated—
Statute Measure 5% by 5% = 30% by 40=1210 by 4= 4,840 yds.
Lancashire Measure 7 by 7 = 49 by 40=1960 by 4= 7,840 ,
Cheshire Measure 8 by 8 = 64 by 40=2560 by 4=10,240 ,
1 “Lawrence Hulme and Henry Bukleye [? Bulkley], yeomen, or
keepers and wardens of the goods of the parish church of Man-
chester ; John le Byron and John de Radclyffe, knights, Edmund
Trafford, John de Bothe, Ralph Longforde, Thurstan de Holand,
James Strangeweys, Robert de Hyde, Robert de Bothe, Otho de
Redwyche [Reddish], John de Barlow, Ralph de Prestwyche, Peter
de Workeslee, James Hulton and John de Hilton, esquires ; also,
William de Birches, John Bameforde, Lawrence de Barlowe,
Geoffrey de Hilton [Hulton], and William de le Highfeld, gentle-
men, and others, all and singular parishioners,” etc.
* The customary measure of Lancashire and Cheshire is a source
of considerable difficulty to strangers, and it may be proper here to
observe, that, while five yards and a half Square constitute a pole or
The 5th George IV. cap. 74, “for ascertaining and establishing
uniformity of Weights and Measures,” which came into operation
on the 1st of January 1826, enacts that the statute acre shall be
exclusively established, not only in this county, but throughout
the United Kingdom.
2 O
282 Çiſt ºigtúrg of £antagjire.
which makes Hunting-ton. On this subject Hollinworth, quoting from Camden's Remains, says, “This
rebus or name devyse, a custome borrowed of the French, which is to be seene on either side of the middle
arche, as it looketh eastwarde. On the one side is an huntsman, with dogs, whereby he thought to express
the two syllables of his name Hunting; on the other side, a vessel called a Tonne, which, being joined
together, makes Huntington.” On a brass plate, fixed in the gravestone of the first warden, was the
following inscription, of which a considerable portion may still be seen in the vault beneath the choir, to
which it was removed on the formation of the marble pavement —“Hic iacet Johan. Huntingdon Bacc. in
Decr. Prim. Magister sive Custos istius Collegii, qui de novo construxit istam Cancellam, qui obiit XImo. die
IXbris MCCCCLVIII, Cuius animae proprietur ſpropicietur] Devs.” (Here lies John Huntingdon, B.D., Master
or Warden of this College, who anew constructed this Chancel; who died 11th November 1458; on whose
soul God have mercy.)
The windows of the church were filled with painted glass. “The east windowe,” says Hollinworth, “ of
the South Isle had Michael and his angells, the 9 orders of the angells fighting wºº the Dragon and his
angells. The east windowe of the North Isle had St. Austin and St. Ambrose singing Te Deum laudamus, and
the other windowes represented some canonical or Ecclesiastical story. In the middle stanchion of every
windowe, especially in the 24 vppermost windowes, was the pictures of the Virgine Mary. But the Vppermost
end of the outmost North ally, neere to Strangeways chappell, was a very rich windowe, whereby was described
our Saviours arreignment and crucifixion, with some pictures of the Trinity, with these verses:—
“‘God that ys mighty most
Fadur and son and Holy Gost
Gyff grace to them to dwell]
And keepe their Saulis out of Hell
That made thys wydo as ye may se
In worshippe of the Trenite
Thu [by their] gode endinge
[That to] ys wyndo gaff anythinge.'”
Several chapels were added to the church edifice in successive generations, of which five are annexed to
the choir and three to the nave. In the Choir—1. (at the east end) St. Mary's Chantry (sometimes
called the Lady Chapel, as it has the situation so named in various churches), and now called the Chetham
Chapel. 2. (north) St. John the Baptist's Chantry (sometimes of old called the Stanley Chapel), now known
as the Derby Chapel. 3. The Stanley, or as now called, the Ely Chapel—a small square chapel connected
with the Derby Chapel by an open arch, and lying north of the line of the outer north wall of the choir,
4. The Jesus Chantry, afterwards called Beswicke's Chapel, now the Byrom Chapel. 5. The Hulme Chapel,
a small mortuary chapel (which for a time was used as a charnel or bone house), adjoining the Jesus or Byrom
Chapel. In the Nave (north)—6. St. James's Chantry, since successively known as the Strangeways and the
Ducie Chapel. 7. (south) St. Nicholas's Chantry, now known as the Trafford Chapel.” 8. (south) St.
George's Chantry, afterwards named the Radcliffe Chapel, also Galley's Chapel, now known as Browne's
Chapel. The space between the north door of the nave and the Ducie or Strangeways Chapel, is supposed
to have been an ancient chantry, but it has long been incorporated in the body of the church.
“The College,” now occupied by the blue-coat boys, and for the purposes of Chetham's Hospital and
Library, and the Library, formed originally the residence of the ecclesiastics belonging to this religious
establishment, and was erected at the same time with the collegiate church.
At the period of the Reformation this foundation shared the fate of the monastic institutions. In the
first year of the reign of Edward VI. (1547) the college was dissolved, when the lands of the church passed
into the hands of lay impropriators, and the house of Stanley for a time enjoyed both the possessions and
the patronage of the collegiate church of Manchester. The number of wardens, from the time of the first
foundation of the college in 1421 to its dissolution in 1547, was seven—namely, 1. John Huntington, the
first warden; 2. John Booth, a zealous Lancasterian, and an ancestor of the family of the earl of Stamford
and Warrington; 3. Ralph Langley, the founder of Oldham Church ; 4. James Stanley, bishop of Ely
(brother to the earl of Derby), who built the chapel on the north side of the choir in which his remains
repose ; 5. Robert Cliffe, in whom and in his fellows the treasurership of the school was vested; 6. George
West (youngest brother of Lord de la Warre), by whom the chapel at the east end of the church, belonging
first to the Byrons and now to the Chethams, was erected; and 7. George Collier, who was the last of the
wardens on the original foundation;” and in whose wardenship was passed the act for checking the
1 Built in virtue of the will of warden James Stanley, bishop of
Ely, who has here a tomb of grey marble, on the table of which is
inlaid a small brass figure of the bishop in his episcopal vestments,
with the following inscription :-‘‘ Off yur charite pray for the soul
of James Stanley, sütyme bushype of Ely and Warden of this
College of Manchestir, which decessed out of this transitore world
the xxxi [a MS. has xxij] daye of March, the yer of our Lord God
MCCCCC & XV [? 1525], upon whos soul and all Christian souls Jhesu
have mercy,” etc.
* In 39 Henry VI. (1460-61) Thomas Booth, esq., son of Sir
Thomas Booth, by letters of Attornasse to Henry Trafford and Jo.
Foxley, delivered to Hugh del Scoles a parcel of land in Beswyk,
together with the advowson of the chantry of St. Nicholas in St.
Mary's church, Manchester, both of which were afterwards trans-
ferred by Hugh Scoles, chaplain, to Sir John de Trafford, knt., by
deed dated 9 Edw. IV. (1469).-Harl. MSS. codea, 2112.
* There were really nine wardens on the original foundation—
viz, in addition to those enumerated in the text, a second James
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 3 arish.
283
licentiousness of wakes and vigils, which in these carnival seasons converted the Collegiate Church into a
theatre." - -
Anterior to the foundation of the collegiate church, Thomas del Booth, an opulent man resident at
Barton, in the parish of Eccles, built a chapel upon Salford bridge, where prayers were wont to be made, as
usual in those times, for the repose of the soul of the founder. In 1505 this chapel was rebuilt; but falling
afterwards into decay, it was used for upwards of a century as a kind of dungeon for Manchester and Salford;
and was finally taken down in 1776. The original will, deposited in the record office in Lancaster Castle,
was transcribed by Sir Cecill Trafford, and the following is a translation from that copy, in the Harl. MSS.
(cod. 2112, fo. 133). It contains a bequest to Salford bridge, probably for building,
WILL OF THOMAS DEL BOOTH.
In the name of God, Amen. Monday before the feast of St. Michael the Archangel [September 25, 1868. I, Thomas del
Booth, now living in good health, make my testament in this manner. First, I bequeath my soul to God and to the blessed Virgin
Mary and to all his saints, and my body to be buried in the church of Eccles, before the altar of St. Katherine Virgin, and with my
body my best beast in the name of a mortuary. Also, I leave to my [wife and sons William, John, and Henry, all my corn at
Barton and Bradford, and all other my goods within my lordships of Barton and Bradford. Also, I leave to each of them £20 in
money. I leave to my [wife and sons William and John 16 oxen and 16 cows, and 4 of the best young heifers, and all my swine and
all my sheep. I leave to the wife of Gilbert de Culcheſth] £10 and 2 heifers, with 4 [blank]. I leave to the wife of John le
Massy, £10. To Alice, daughter of Thomas, £20. To Margaret, daughter of Thomas, £20 towards marriage. To Agnes, sister of
the said Margaret, É20. To Roger, Son of Thomas del Booth, £20 and 4 oxen, 4 cows, and one horse. To Richard, son of Thomas
del Booth, £10 and 4 cows and 4 [?] bullocks. To Gilbert de Barton and William his son £10 and 4 bullocks [or heifers—bouecotas
* boviculas]. To Thomas son of Gilbert de Barton, £10. To John de Berri, my brother, £10. To the bridge of Salford, £30, to be paid
in the next three years by equal portions. To two chaplains, £66 : 13:4 [i.e. 100 marks], to be paid before the altar of St. Kathe-
rine, in the church of Eccles, for the soul of King Edward III., and for the soul of Roger de Hulton, and of all benefactors of the
said Thomas, to be taken for each chapel yearly 5 marks, for the ten years next following. [This shows there were two chapels.] To
Thomas, son of Thomas del Booth, £30 to maintain him at school. To Roger del Heath, 10s. To the wife of William del Heath
and her children, £10. To my mother, £10 and 9s. To John Ganym and his children, £10. I bequeath 30s, towards making the
causeway near “Le Poll,” and “Urblache,” and “Le Barlache;” 20s, to making the bridge near the mill and the causeway; 20s.
to making “the bark-platt and the Salteam-plat.” To the parson of Mamecestre, “molus siftn’% of silver. To John, son of —
Radcliffe, another “molus syſin.” To “Sed,” 10 marks (£6 : 13; 4). To John Botterley, chaplain, 10 marks. To Roger Flour,
chaplain, 20s. To John Brunbadby, chaplain, half-a-mark (6s. 8d.). To William de Fere, chaplain, 3 cows with [or in] calf. To
John de Fere, one cow. To the son of Robert de Fere, one cow with calf. To John Toulay, one cow with calf. To John de
Wordeley [Wardley] two heifers with calf.
“Inventory of the goods of Thomas del Booth on the day on which he made his will—to wit, 30 oxen, worth £20 ; 30 cows, worth
£20 ; corn at Barton and Bradford, perhaps £50; and other necessaries within my houses, worth £10; for which money : John
Bordeley, in security, by charter of the same Roger, by written statute, John de Bar of Kuerdeley of ingress. The same John de
Bur [? Barton, Byron, or Bury], for the great tithes of the chapel, #47. See the back.” -
Endorsement.—“To be paid at the feasts of St. John Baptist and the Nativity of the Blessed Mary [June 24 and September 8].
The same John de Byr[on] owes Booth for cows [? milk] and other necessaries, 9d. ; and the same John owes Booth of the altarage,
to be paid at Christmas, 20 marks (£13: 6:8). John de Botley, Adam de Tetlow, and John Gowayn, owe Booth £30 for corn sold.
Richard de Hull, Geoffrey de Newham, and Henry del Holt, owe £16:10s., to be paid at Christmas, for 33 “bost.” Richard de Hull
and Geoffrey de Newham owe Booth £7: 6s. for 29 steers. Hugh Atkinson and Adam Atkinson owe 60s. for stirks.
“For the faithful execution of these things I ordain and make my executors—to wit, Sir Thomas de Wyke, rector of the
church of Mamecestre; Richard, son of John de Radcliff; John his brother, and Ellen my wife. In testimony whereof I have set
my seal to this will with my own hands. Given at Barton the year and day abovesaid.” - wº
Sir Cecill Trafford has written—“This is the whole will verbatim. It is indented. There was a seal fixed on the back ; but
it is broke off.”
The collegiate church at Manchester procured for this place the privileges of asylum,” in common with
seven other places—namely, Lancaster, Derby, Northampton, Norwich, Wells, Westchester, and York. This
privilege had existed in Westminster, in the abbey and its precincts, ever since the time of Sibert, king of
the West Saxons, by whom it was ordained that any person, of whatsoever condition, whencesoever he might
come, or for whatever offence, who should resort to this place for sanctuary, should be assured of his life,
liberty, and limbs; and that whosoever should presume to violate this sanctuary, should lose his name,
worship, dignity, and power, and with that great traitor Judas, the betrayer of our Saviour, be consigned to
the everlasting fire of hell. The act granting to Manchester this immunity passed in the 32d Henry VIII.
(1540), and constituted this “a place of privilege and tuicion for term of lyfe to all offender and malefactors,
of whatsoever quality, kind, or nature their offences might be, for the which saide offences and crimes the
peines and punishment of death should ensue by the statute laws and customes of the realme,” other than
murder, rape, burglary, highway robbery, or wilfully burning any house or barn. One year's trial was sufficient
Stanley succeeding the first ; and a Master Allday succeeding War-
den Cliffe.
1 Previous to the Reformation, the pageant of Robin Hood and
his Archers in green, with Maid Marian as queen of the May, was
exhibited within the walls of the collegiate church.
* These places, the pool and two leaches, or miry, boggy places,
were probably in Barton, and a causeway was needed to pass by or
over them.
3. A plat or platting was a small bridge or way over a pit or
streamlet, or even a boggy place. These might be plats over a bark.
or tan pit and a Salt-pit.
4 Dr. Hibbert-Ware thinks this name inaccurately copied, and
suggests that it may have been a “meal ciffine or sieve,” which,
being of silver, might have been used for sifting the meal or flour
from which the consecrated wafers (or “host”) were baked. The
article is bequeathed to a rector of the church of Manchester. The
same writer observes, that as the testator lived five years after
making this will, he probably saw the completion of Salford bridge,
on which he is said to have built the ancient chapel ; and that he
might also live to see the completion of his son's studies. Two of
the testator's descendants attained the dignity of archbishop of
York.
* The sanctuary-men bore a cross in their hand, as a sign that
they were pardoned for the sake of the holy place where they
sought succour. According to tradition, the site of the sanctuary at
Manchester was the vicinity of Hyde's Cross.
284 Oſije #igtúrg of 3Lancashire.
to prove that, instead of a benefit, the privilege of Sanctuary was a grievous nuisance totally unfit for the
meridian of Manchester, and the law of 33 Henry VIII. (1541), entitled “Ann acte touchinge the translation
of sanictuary from Manchester to Westchester” (Chester), is a curious and interesting document, illustrative
not only of the consequences of Sanctuary, but also of the nature of the trade and police of Manchester at
the period of the Reformation. After reciting the leading provisions of the act passed in the former year,
constituting Manchester a place of Sanctuary, the new act proceeds to state —
“Whereas the saide towne of Manchester is and hath of longe tyme been a towne well inhabited, and the kinges subjectes
inhabitauntes of the same towne are well set a worke in makinge of clothes, as well of lynnen as of woollen, whereby the inhabitauntes of
the saide towne haue obteyned gotten and come vnto riches and welthy lyuings, and haue kepte and set manye artificers and poore folkes
to worke within the said towne, and by reason of the great occupienge good order strayte and true dealing of the inhabitantes of the said
towne, many strangers, as wel of Ireland as of other places within this realme, haue resorted to the saide towne with lynnen yarne,
woolles, and other necessary wares for makinge of clothes, to be solde there, and haue vsed to credit & truste the poore inhabitantes of the
same towne, which were not able and had not redy money to paye in hande for the saide yarnes wolles and wares, vnto Suche time the saide
credites with their industry labour and peynes myght make clothes of the saide wolles yarnes and other necessary wares, and solde the
same, to contente and paye their creditours, wherein hath consisted much of the common welth of the said towne, and many poore folkes
had lyuynge, and children and seruants there vertuously brought up in honest and true labour, out of all ydlenes. And for as muche as of
necessitie the said lynnen yarne muste lye without as well in the night as in the day cotinually for the space of one halfe yere to be whited,
before it can be made clothe, and the Wollen clothes there made must hange vppon the taynter, to be dryed before it can be dressed up,
and for the saulfegarde thereof it is and shalbe expediét and necessary, that substanciall honest iuste true and credible persons be and
shuld dwell in the sayd towne, and no maner of lyght persone or persons there to be inhabytauntes. And where[as] also many straungers
inhabytinge in other towneshypes and places, haue vsed customably to resorte to the sayd towne of Manchester with a great number of
cottons, to be vitered & solde to the inhabtantes of the same towne to the great profit of al the inhabitantes of the same and therby many
poore people haue ben wel set a worke, as wel with dressyng & frisyng of the sayd cottons, as with puttyng to sale the same. And
forasmoch as diuers lyght and euyll disposed persons, syns the makinge of the sayd statute, for certayne offences by theym committed and
done, haue now of late resorted and made their abode within the Saide towne of Mâchester, and lyued in ydelnes not alonlie giuinge
euyll occasion to honest and treue labourers and seruaiites within the Saied towne to line in Suche sort of ydelmes, but also haue allured
and entised diuers seruantes and labourers, within the said townes, to practyse & vse winlaufull games, wherby they have consumed and
mispét their maisters goodes being in handes : ouer that, Syms the resort of the saied persons to the sayde towne, there hath been cómitted
and done dyuers theftes and felonyes, as in felonious breakynge of walke milles, and stealynge clothes thyther brought to be fulled, &
also in stealinge of yarm layd out to be whited, and in stealinge and cuttyng downe great peaces of clothes from the teyntours, as well by
nyght as by daye, to the great impouerishment of the owners therof, so that they be not able to kepe theyr credite with theyr said
creditours, by reason wherof they sayd Iryshemé and other, whiche heretofore haue vsed to brynge & sell theyr wolles yarne and other
necessary wares for makyng of clothes, to thinhabytâtes of the sayd towne, and to credite them for the painment therof, as before is
expressed, do nowe withdrawe them selues with theyr said wares, and will not brynge nor selle the same wares in the sayd towne, nor to
the inhabitauntes therof, without redy payment in hande ; and the sayd persones, whiche Vsed to bringe thyther the sayd cottons, do also
withdrawe them selues, whiche shall be to the Viter decay and desolacion of the sayd towne within short tyme, if the sayde offendours and
saynctuarye men and Suche other, shall be suffered to make theyr abode within the sayde towne. And also forasmoche as the sayde towne
of Manchester is not walled, wherby the Saide Saintuary menne may or can saulfely be kepte in the night season, but that they may and
doo continually escape out of the same towne by night, and commit Sundry greate robberies and felonies vpd the kynges louynge and
obedient subjectes, repayrynge to the same towne, and after theyr Sayd felonies and robberies so commytted, may without any let of wall
or fortresse enter into euery part and quarters of the same towne. And also for as moche as there is neyther mayre, shyreffe, baylyffe
nor other heade officer or officers within the same towne, other than a steward beige officer immediatelie vnder the chiefe lorde of the same
towne, by reason whereof or by whome the sayd sayntuary men might be the more in drede or better punyshed, after their saied robberies
or euylle doinges, nor yet any prison howse or iayle Saufely to kepe them in, after their Sayde offences and euyll doinges. Wherfore be it
ordeined and ennacted by the kynge our Soueraygne lorde and the lordes spirituall and temporal, and the commons in this present
parlyament assembled, and by auctoritie of the same, that the Sayde former act of parlyament, concernyinge the priuyledge sainctuary
and tuicion for the saied offendours onely within the sayd towne of Manchester, shall and may be from the feaste of the natiuitie
of saynct John Baptiste now nexte cominge, repelled, adnichilate, and made frustrate. And the sayde town of Manchester from the
sayde feaste of sayncte John Baptiste, shall be of lyke condicion estate and qualitie discharged of the sayd saintuary and priuilege, as the
same towne was before the making of the Saied former acte,”
It was at the same time further enacted that the city of Westchester [Chester], in the county of Chester,
which was well inhabited, having no such trade of merchandise, and having a strong gaol within the said city
for punishing of malefactors, and also within the said city a mayor, bailiffs, and other head officers, amongst
other towns and places, should from henceforth be admitted, allowed, and taken to be sanctuary, and a place
of privilege and tuition. And that the constables of Manchester, taking with them twenty of the inhabitants,
should take and bring from Manchester to Westchester the said sanctuary men, there to be delivered to the
mayor and sheriffs of the said city, and there to remain. These asylums existed in Chester and its neigh-
bourhood long before this time, and hence we find a charter from Ranulph de Blundeville, third earl of Chester,
to his barons, in which he allows strangers to settle on their estates, but reserves to himself the fines payable
by criminals who resorted thither for asylum. The law of sanctuary was found incompatible with the state of
society in England, after the free introduction of trade, manufactures, and commerce, on a large scale, and an
act accordingly passed, in the 1st James I. (1603), by which it was totally abolished in the British dominions.
Though the college of Manchester had survived the shock of the dissolution of the lesser and the larger
monasteries in the time of Henry VIII. the regency of Edward VI. dissolved the collegiate institution, and
the king, having turned the college into a vicarage, and taken the lands into his own hands, demised them to
Edward, earl of Derby, subject to the following pensions in charge to the clergy —
To Geo. Collier, warden, £34: 5s. ; to Laurence Wauss [or Vaux], incumbent, £8:13: 4; to John Cowpage, senior vicar, £6:13:4;
and to Ralph Barne and William Wilsonne, vicars, £6 each ; to John Glover and John Smythe, perpetual clerks, £5 : 6s. each ; to
Thurston Thompsonne, incumbent, £5: 6s. ; to Geo. Nutshawe, incumbent, É5; and to Geo. Okell and Geo. Warrell, £6 each.
Pensions were also allowed to the priests of the dissolved chantries in this college—namely, to Nicholas Woolestencrofte, priest
of St. James chantry, to Wm. Woodalle, priest of the Holy Trinity chantry, and to Will. Ryley, chantry priest of Trafford chapel
§
#umbrel of $alfort—ftlantiješter 33arisſ). 285
£5 each ; to Will. Trafforde, stipendiary in the church, £4:3: 8; to Robert Prestwicke, priest of BySSykes [Beswick's] chantry,
£4:1:9, to John Barlowe, priest of St. George's chantry, £6. ; and to Edward Smyth, priest of the same, £4:12:8.
After the marriage of Queen Mary to Philip of Spain, the college was re-established, the deeds of
alienation abrogated, except as to the collegiate house and some of the lands of Small value still held by the
earl of Derby, and the Rev. George Collier was reinstated in his office of warden. During this reign the
seven chantries in the collegiate church of Manchester, which had been abolished by Edward VI., were
re-established, along with numerous other chantries in the various parish churches of Lancashire. On the
death of the Rev. George Collier, Lawrence Vaux, B.D., was appointed warden. This divine was the only
fellow nominated on the foundation of Philip and Mary ; he was a zealous and learned Catholic, and retired,
or was expelled, in the reign of Elizabeth. William Birch, a younger brother of Birch of Birch Hall, had a
presentation to the wardenship, but it does not appear that this divine was ever installed. He has the
reputation of having shown a reluctance to comply with some measure proposed by the court to the prejudice
of the college (perhaps to grant to the court favourites indulgent leases of the college-lands), a proposal to
which he refused to lend himself, and was for his upright conduct rejected. In the list of the popish recusants,
late dignitaries in the church, preserved by Strype, is the name of Lawrence Vaux, late warden of Manchester,
from which it appears that in 1561 he was confined in the county of Worcester, and doomed to keep within
the limits of that county. Not relishing this restraint, he fled into Ireland, but afterwards returned into his
native country, where he was thrown into prison, and died in the Gatehouse at Westminster in great distress,
destitute of the common necessaries of life." Thomas Herle, one of the chaplains of Queen Elizabeth, was
the next warden; under his wardenship the town was agitated with religious animosities, and the revenues
of the church impaired even to penury. In consequence of a dispute, arising out of some regulation
adopted by the ecclesiastical commissioners, the clergy belonging to the collegiate church were repeatedly
beaten by the populace ; and one of the preachers, a bachelor in divinity, on his way to perform divine
service in mid-lent, 1574, was assailed by one William Smith of Manchester, who drew a dagger and
inflicted upon him no fewer than three separate wounds. Certain lands called obyt lands, belonging to the
church, were also seized by Thomas Stawnton, an attorney of the duchy; and the malcontents took away
the documentary evidence of the church, including the letters-patent. Not content with these depredations,
the same offenders carried off ornaments and plate from the collegiate institution, of the value of 500 marks,
belonging to the queen. Both the clergy and the court, in their turn, became depredators upon the revenues
of the college; and the warden, no doubt for a valuable consideration, granted long leases of the principal
lands and tithes of this foundation to Killegrew, a gentleman of her majesty's privy chamber, and others,
upon such small and inadequate rents as to threaten the entire ruin of the college. In the year 1576, Dean
Nowell, whose solicitude for the interests of the charities of Lancashire was unceasing, made a representation
of this grievance to the lord-treasurer and to the Secretary Walsingham, entreating that a full examination
might take place into the administration of the revenue and property of the college, and that, in the meantime,
Herle, the warden, and the author of the ruin, as he was called, might receive no rents till the report of
persons appointed to conduct the investigation was made. In this way that unworthy warden was suspended
from his office, and the advice given by Secretary Walsingham to Dr. Chaderton concerning him was, that
he should continue to enjoy his pension, because, says the Secretary, “he is utterly unable to instruct either
here or elsewhere.”
In 1578, Queen Elizabeth, on the humble petition of the gentlemen and other inhabitants of Manchester,
granted a renewed charter of foundation, comprehending one warden priest, B.D., four fellows priests, B.A.,
two chaplains or vicars, four laymen, and four children skilled in music. At this period the name of the
collegiate institution was changed from The College of the Blessed Virgin, by which it was originally called, to
Christ's College; it was also ordained that the lands belonging to the foundation should be restored, and the
tithes appertaining to the church in the various townships of the parish, duly paid to the warden and fellows,
who were constituted a corporation.” The new charter named John Wolton, B.D., the first wardén, who,
being two years afterwards elevated to the see of Exeter, was succeeded in 1580 by William Chaderton,
D.D., the fifth bishop of Chester, a native of Nuthurst in the parish of Manchester. Dr. Chaderton held the
wardenship of Manchester College till 1595, when he was succeeded by John Dee, A.M., the friend of
Camden, and a celebrated mathematician. This divine was addicted to the occult sciences. He was
succeeded by Richard Murray, an ostentatious high priest, who claimed his seat in the warden's stall from the
bishop of Chester, in the face of the congregation, and who, having preached a flimsy sermon before the king,
James I. from the words—“I am not ashamed of the gospel,” was told by that monarch that, though he
was not ashamed of the gospel, the gospel had much reason to be ashamed of him.
In 1617, a gallery was for the first time added to the Collegiate Church, principally at the cost of Mr.
1 Dodd's Ch. Hist, vol. ii. p. 111. every fellow, every day that he shall be present, 1s. 4d.—To every
2 In this petition, the number of inhabitants in Manchester is chaplain, sixpence halfpenny farthing.—To every chorister, four-
stated to be 10,000. pence halfpenny ; and to every singing boy, twopence halfpenny
3 “We do limit and appoint,” says the charter, “unto the farthing per day,” subject to an abatement of one-half their stipends
warden, every day that he shall be present and resident, 4S,--TO for those days that they are absent.
286 Çür #igturn ºf £attragùirt.
Humphrey Booth, a prosperous merchant in Salford; and in 1634 Trinity Chapel in Salford was founded
and endowed by the same pious benefactor. This chapel, towards the erection of which the neighbouring
gentry contributed the sum of £200, after standing little more than a century, was taken down and rebuilt
in 1752. The dilapidation of the church, and the malversations in the management of its revenues, during
the period of Warden Murray's usurpation (for, not having taken the initiatory oath, he was not legally
invested with the office), induced the gentry and inhabitants’ “ of Manchester, alias Mancáster,” to repeat
their petition to the throne for a renewed foundation of the college ; and his majesty Charles I., in com-
pliance with the prayer of the petitioners, granted a new charter, drawn by Archbishop Laud:—By this
charter it is ordained, that the officers of the college shall consist of one warden, at least of the rank of
bachelor of divinity, or of canonical or civil laws; and four fellows, at the least masters of arts, or bachelors
of laws, who shall be a body corporate and politic of themselves for ever, by the name of “The Warden and
Fellows of Christ's College in Manchester;” that the appointment of the warden shall be in the crown, by
letters sealed with the great seal of England; and the appointment of the fellows in the warden and fellows,
or the majority of them, by letter sealed with the common seal of the college.” The charter further directs
that there shall be two chaplains, or vicars, continually in the college, at least bachelors of arts; and two
clerks to visit the sick, celebrate the Sacrament, and other necessary and divine services in the said college
and parish of Manchester; one of whom, by a recent regulation, to be in holy orders; and that there shall
be four singing-men, whether clerks or laymen, and four boys skilled in music, who may perform prayers and
other divine services in the said collegiate church, the chaplains and singing-men and boys to be from time
to time elected by the warden and fellows.” It is also ordained that there shall be in the said college con-
tinually a sub-warden, a treasurer, a collector, a registrar, a master of the choristry, an instructor, an organist, and
a bailiff, all to be chosen by the warden and fellows; and that the sub-warden, treasurer, and collector shall be of
the number of the fellows; and the other aforesaid officers to be chosen for ever by the rest of the collegiates.
The first warden on King Charles's foundation was Richard Heyricke, B.D., under whose administration
the dilapidated collegiate church was re-edified. No sooner was this great work effected than the wars
between prerogative and privilege commenced, and the Warden, adhering to the side of the Commonwealth,
was placed at the head of the first presbyterical classes for the province of Lancaster, along with the Rev.
Richard Hollinworth, author of “Mancuniensis.” According to this writer, an excellent authority upon
such a subject, the Independents set up a meeting in the college in 1649, at which time the whole annual
income of the college amounted to £1355; 11s. On the 5th of November, in the same year, the chapter-
house and the college-chest were broken open, when the deeds belonging to the foundation were seized upon
by some of the soldiers, and sent to London, where they were destroyed by the great fire in 1666. From
the same authority we learn that this fanatical soldiery, under the influence of a zeal which was not according
to knowledge, pulled down a newly-painted picture of Bishop Oldham, which stood at the head of his
grammar-school, and consigned it to destruction. The college was again dissolved by the ordinance of
parliament for the sale of dean and chapter lands; and Mr. Heyricke, the late warden, officiated with a salary
of £100 a-year during the interregnum. At this time the third Randle Holme wrote his “Church Notes,”
in which he says:–
“MANCHESTER CHURCH.
“On the north side of the E. of Darbies Chappell formerly dedicated to St Jo. Bapt. in Brasse ouer the entrance is this
inscription:—“Vanitas Vanitatü et oia vanitas, obsecram. Vt, adjuvet nos Jacob Stanley Elyeſi Epil Jö Stanley mir et margº vy, eius
et parentes eorum in orationibus Vestris apud domini Jeesum Xplim, qui hanc capellam in eius noie et in honore Jofiis Baptist.
fabricauerunt anno incarnationis illius MDXIII.' - -
“Within this spatious chapell is another on the north side, where is a tombe with this inscription —‘Of y, charity,’ &c.
[See note 1, p. 282.]
“The Chapell on the south side :-‘This chapell was by Isabell Beck dau. & sole heire of Rich. Bexwike, in her widdowhood
giuen to Francis Pendleton & Cecily his wife, dau. of the Sd. Isabell, whose successors now or latly possessed it. 40 Q. Eliz.4 (1598).
It is now very ruinous (1652). It was granted 1506 from James Stanley warden & ye fellows to Rich. fil. Roger Bexwick to enjoy
its priuiledges.”
p. º la Warre made a deed of Feoffment (to Tho. Bishop of Durham Chancłor of Engi) and founded 2 schooles at plair
greene [?] one of Gramar anothr of Musick, & founded y” colledge church consisting of i keeper or Mr 8 fellowes chaplens, 4 clerks
& 6 choristers in honor of St Mary to whome the pish church was formerly dedicated, & to Sº Dionyse ye patron Sº of France, & St
George the patron Sº of Engi, the said Tho. de la Warre being partly a Frenchman & partly an Englishman. For wºn license from
K. H. 5. Vnder the duchy seale he payed into the Hanaper 200 marcs [#133: 6:8] 22 maij9 H. 5” (1421).”
On the Restoration, in 1660, this institution was revived, subject to the statutes of Charles I, and Mr.
Heyricke reinstated in his office of warden, which he held till his death in 1667. Nicholas Stratford, B.D.,
* In this petition the number of inhabitants in Manchester is Carolo 1635 fundati.” (The seal of the College of Christ in Man-
stated at 20,000 or upwards, from which it appears, if this state-
ment be correct, of which we think there is much reason to doubt,
that the population had doubled itself in 57 years.
* This seal has for its device an open book; over it a lighted
candle in a candlestick. On the leaves of the book are the words:
“Lucerna pedibus meis, verbum tuum, et lumen semitis meis” (Ps.
cxix.) Legend: “Sigillum Collegii Christi in Manchester, a Rege
chester, founded by King Charles in 1635.)
* King Charles's charter directs that “the wages,” as they are
called, of the warden shall be £70 a-year; each fellow £35; each
chaplain £17: 10s., exclusive of the dues; each clerk or layman
#10; and every boy skilled in music #5 yearly, subject to an
increase upon the increased revenues of the college.
4 Hollinworth has it 4° Eliz. -
* Harl. MSS. codex 2129, fo. 66.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arígí, ©
2S7
then became warden, and held the office till the year 1684. Richard Wroe, B.D., an eloquent preacher and
a pious divine, who obtained the name of “The silver-tongued Wroe,” was his successor. On the death of this
warden, 1718, he was succeeded by Samuel Peploe, B.D., vicar of Preston. This appointment, though made
by the crown, Dr. Gastrell, the bishop of Chester, refused to recognise, on the ground that the degree of the
new warden had been obtained at Lambeth from the archbishop, instead of at Oxford from the University.'
The point at issue was brought before the Court of King's Bench, and decided by that tribunal against the
bishop.” . -
On the death of Dr. Gastrell, in 1725, his opponent was preferred to the see of Chester, and resigned
the wardenship of Manchester in 1738 in favour of his son, Samuel Peploe, LL.B., whose successor, in 1781,
was Richard Assheton, D.D., rector of Middleton, of the ancient family of Ashton. This divine, dying in
1798, was succeeded by Thomas Blackburne, D.D., vicar of Waverham, who, having held the wardenship
twenty-four years, was succeeded on his death, in 1823, by Thomas Jackson Calvert, D.D., on whose death,
in 1840, the Hon. and Rev. William Herbert, LL.D., B.D., succeeded to the wardenship.
The following are the names of the wardens of Manchester College, with the year when each of them
was installed, from the erection of the collegiate church to the year 1847 (when the capitular body, from
warden and fellows, became dean and canons), arranged under the respective foundations:—
ON THOMAS DE LA WARRE's FOUNDATION.—1421.
Name. Period of Wardenship. Cause of its Termination.
John Huntingdon. 1422 to 1457. T)ied 11th November 1457.
. John Booth. 1459 to 1465. Deprived by Edw. IV.
Ralph Langley. 1465 to 1481. Resigned July 27, 1481.
1481 to 1485.
1485 to 1509.
Died 1485.
James Stanley (1st). Resigned in 1509.
eSigned. In †
. James Stanley (2d).
Robert Cliff. 1509 to ? 1518. Resigned in 151—.
“Master Alday.” 15— to ? 1518. Nothing known.
. George West. 1518 to 1535. Resigned in 1535.
. George Collyer. 1535 to 1547. Deprived, on dissolution by Edward VI. 8
ON PHILIP AND MARY's FOUNDATION.—? 1554 or 1555.
1553 to 1557.
1557 to 1558.
Restored, after being out six years, and held
the wardenship till 1557.
Resigned on Elizabeth's accession, being a
Roman Catholic.
9. George Collyer.
10. Lawrence Waux, B.D.
ON QUEEN ELIZABETH's FOUNDATION.—1578.
1558 to 1570. Resigned at the request of Queen Elizabeth.
1570 to 1578. Dismissed and deprived.
1578 to 1579. Resigned on elevation to bishopric of Exeter.
1579 to 1595. Held the wardenship with bishopric of Chester,
but resigned on translation to see of Lincoln.
T)ied in 1608.
Deprived on dissolution of college.
11. William Birch, M.A.
12. Thomas Herle.
13. John Wolton, B.D.
14. William Chaderton, D.D.
15. John Dee, A.M.
16. Richard Murray.
1595 to 1608.
1608 to 1635.
ON THE FOUNDATION OF CHARLES I.-1635.
1636 to 1646. Practical dissolution of the college, the Presby-
[Interregnum]. terian classis being substituted. Mr. Heyricke
was thenceforth only one of the ministers, till
the Restoration.
Died 6th August 1667.
Resigned on being appointed preacher at Alder-
manbury, London. He was afterwards bishop
of Chester.
Died 1st January 1718.
(Bishop of Chester from 1706.) Resigned in
favour of his son in 1738.
I)ied 22d October 1781.
T)ied 6th June 1800.
Died 10th January 1823.
17. Richard Heyricke.
17. The same.
18. Nicholas Stratford, B.D.
1660 to 1667.
1667 to 1684.
19. Richard Wroe, B.D., styled )
“The Silver-Tongued.”
20. Samuel Peploe (1st), B.D.
1684 to 1718.
1718 to 1738.
21. Samuel Peploe (2d), LL.D.
22. Richard Assheton, D.D.
23. Thomas Blackburne, LL.D.
24. Thomas Calvert, D.D. 1823 to 1840. T)ied 4th June 1840.
25. Hon. Wm. Herbert, LL.D., B.D. 1840 to 1847. Died 1847.
The Hon. and Very Rev. William Herbert was the last warden and the first dean. He succeeded Dr. Calvert, who died 4th
June 1840; and in the same year was passed the statute for regulating the incomes of deans, canons, and minor canons. By the
statute of 10 and 11 Vict. cap. 108 (passed July 1847), the collegiate church was constituted a cathedral, and the Warden and
1738 to 1781.
1781 to 1800.
1800 to 1823.
1 Harl. MSS. codex 7049, in the Rev. T. Baker's Ecclesiastical
Collections, under the head of “Manchester College—Mr. Peploe's
the Rev. Mr. Whitaker to fill an existing vacancy, while the fellows
chose the Rev. Mr. Ashton; and to secure his object he procured
case,” p. 571.
* At the commencement of the wardenship of Bishop Peploe, a
dispute arose in the chapter, out of a claim set up by the warden
to exercise a veto over the choice of the chaplains of the collegiate
church. In pursuance of this assumed right the bishop nominated
his nominee to be appointed king's preacher.—Harl. MSS. cod.
7189, art. 15. The bishop, however, failed in his object, and Mr.
Ashton's appointment was confirmed. -
3. It is stated that after its dissolution by Edward VI. the college
was made a vicarage under Sir Thomas Penketh.-H.
288 Çür #istorg of £amcagüirº.
fellows consequently had their titular dignities changed into dean and canons. Dean Herbert died in the summer of that year,
and was succeeded by the present dean, the Very Rev. George Hull Bowers, D.D., who read himself in at the cathedral July 18,
1847. By the statute of 13 and 14 Wict. cap. 40 (1850), for dividing the ancient parish of Manchester into districts, each church
and district, on the next vacancy, is to become a distinct parish, the remainder of the parish to be the parish of Manchester, with
the cathedral for its parish church. In the parish thus formed the dean for the time being will, “upon institution and installation
into his deanery, have the cure of souls, and be assisted in such cure by the chaplains or minor canons, whose ecclesiastical status
and privileges are, however, preserved.” Each of the canons residentiary is to hold one of four benefices, formed out of the original
parish—viz, St. Andrew's, Ancoats; St. George's, Hulme; St. Matthew’s, Manchester ; and St. Philip's, Salford. The following
are the present cathedral clergy, 1867, with the dates of appointment —Dean—The Very Rev. G. H. Bowers, D.D. (1847).
Canons—Rev. Chas. Richson, M.A. (1854); Rev. John Howard Marsden, B.D. (1858). Rev. N. W. Gibson (bursar) (1861); and
the Rev. Edward Birch, M.A. (1866). Mr. Richson is rector of St. Andrew’s (1831); the other three benefices have not been vacant
since the appointments of the canons. There are twenty honorary canons, two minor canons, a clerk in orders, and two curates
of the cathedral district.
A brief description of the cathedral edifice, as it stands in 1867, may be given.' The form of the edifice
is an irregular parallelogram, with lateral projecting portions, being side chapels. It consists of a nave and
chancel or choir, without transepts, with a western tower and porch, and an eastern Lady chapel or chantry.
The nave has one chapel on the north side—St. James's chantry, or the Strangeways or Ducie chapel; and
two on the south side, that next the south porch being St. George's Chantry, also called Bibby's, Galley's, or
Browne's chapel; and that next the choir, St. Nicholas's Chantry or the Trafford Chapel. The choir chapels on
the north side are St. John the Baptist's Chantry, better known as the Derby Chapel, and its small addition,
projecting beyond the line of the north wall of the church, called the Ely Chapel; at the east end St. Mary's
chantry [] the Lady Chapel], now called the Chetham Chapel; on the south side of the choir are, near its
east end, the octagonal chapter-house, and next it the Jesus Chantry or Byrom Chapel; its small projecting
mortuary chapel or charnel-house, called Hulme's Chapel, was removed when the Byrom Chapel was restored.
These side chapels have added greatly to the original width of the edifice, making it the widest parish church
in England, except that of Coventry, being across the nave 112 feet in width from the north to the south walls,
and rather more across the choir and the Derby and Byrom Chapels. The length of the church proper is about
175 feet ; but adding 20 feet for the Chetham Chapel at the east end, and 25 feet for the tower-porch at the
west end, the total length is about 220 feet. Standing just within the west or tower door, the visitor has a
fine vista along the centre aisle of the nave, through the open iron screen and the choir, and over the open
stone reredos to the great east window above. In the nave four ranges of seats are separated by a centre and
two side aisles. Besides the usual windows north and south, both the nave and choir are further lighted,
each by six north and six south clerestory windows. Of the principal or lower range of windows, twelve are
of stained glass, chiefly memorial windows, of which five are in the nave and its chapels, and the other seven
in the choir and its chapels. At the west end of the nave are three of these memorial windows, one looking
south, “in memory of the late James Dunn, who died January 31, 1861.” That south of the lower arch is in
memory of the late J. C. Harter, esq.; that to the north of the arch, in memory of the late Samuel Fletcher,
esq. In Browne's Chapel is a window in memory of the late Rev. Thomas Clowes. In the Trafford Chapel
is a small window of stained glass, placed by Sir Thomas Jos. de Trafford in 1847. In the choir, the great
east window of seven lights, and the east windows of the north and south choirs, are of stained glass, and
are memorial windows. The south-east window, “to the honour and glory of God, by a citizen of Manchester,
once a chorister of this church, A.D. 1858.” The north-east window, in memory of Humphrey Chetham, whose
fine marble statue-monument by Theed stands in front of it. In the south-east corner is a marble statue-
monument to the memory of the late Thomas Fleming, esq. The east window of the Derby Chapel is also
a memorial; and two others in the Derby Chapel, looking north, are memorials of Mr. Newall of Limes, Old
Trafford, and Mr. James Chadwick. Of the twelve clerestory windows, only one is of stained glass; but we
believe they are all eventually to be filled with pictorial glass, representing in chronological order a series of
events in Old and New Testament history. The one in the south clerestory already filled with stained glass
(the fourth from the east end), is a memorial of his departed wife, placed by the Rev. Canon Gibson. It
represents Jesus in the temple—Simeon and Anna giving thanks.
The choir is generally regarded as the chief glory of the edifice. It contains, besides the bishop's
throne, thirty stalls—fifteen on the north, and as many on the South side, all enriched by canopies of carved
oak, in the most elaborate tabernacle work; that over the dean's stall is perhaps unrivalled in the kingdom.
The misereres, or fall-seats, have curious and in some instances grotesque carvings on the lower surfaces. The
old wall at the back of the communion-table, covered with a piece of tapestry representing the deaths of
Ananias and Sapphira, has given place to an elegant stone screen or reredos, which is not carried upward so
high as to interfere with the view, from the west end of the nave, of the fine east window.
The daily services of the church take place in the choir, except on certain days when they are celebrated
at the east end of the nave, where are placed the pulpit, reading-desks, eagle for the lessons, seats for the
choristers, etc., for the regular Sunday services. The church has two organs, one for the nave, the other,
* For more ample details than can be given in this work, the reader is referred to “An Architectural Description of the Collegiate
Church and College of Manchester,” by the late Mr. John Palmer, architect, vol. ii. of “The History of the Foundations of
Manchester.”—H.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arigly. 289
formerly placed in a gallery dividing the nave from the choir, was the choir-organ. It is now placed in the
Derby Chapel, wherein service is sometimes performed in the winter, the chapel having been fitted with desk,
seats, etc., for the purpose. The font, originally in the east end of the Derby Chapel, is now placed near
the north-west door of the nave; it is...in memory of Edmund Frere, who died March 14, 1861, and Martha
his wife. The cover, an elaborately-carved canopy of oak in tabernacle work, is a gift in memory of the late
Mr. Thomas Lings, many years comptroller of the parish accounts.
The friable and perishable character of the stone of which the church was originally built, and the
action of the damp atmosphere, impregnated with dense Smoke containing many substances destructive of
masonry, has rendered it necessary to repair the ravages of time in the external and even the internal parts
of the structure. In the present century two extensive reparations have been effected. The first of these
was commenced in the early part of 1814, and may be said to have continued, with some intermission, till
1828. Several portions of these were effected at the cost of the owners of the chapels, as Earl Ducie, the
Earl of Derby, and others; while the main cost, nearly £16,000, was defrayed by church-rates throughout
the parish at large. Into these repairs we need not further enter. . -
The greatest restorations in point of extent, and the best in respect of their architectural truth and
value, which the old parish and Collegiate Church, now the cathedral of Manchester, has undergone, have been
those which commenced in 1845, and are not yet quite completed, though sufficiently. So to present a whole
of great beauty and harmony. These have all been effected under the judicious care and superintendence of
Mr. J. P. Holden, architect, who has throughout adhered with a scrupulous fidelity worthy of all imitation to the
forms and character of the old mouldering stone, so far as these could be clearly ascertained; so that, with such
superiority as a refined taste could infuse, we have in the structure, as thus renewed, the edifice of centuries
ago in its old form, but in new attire, without modern innovation. The dean and chapter have the merit of
initiating these extensive restorations, and at their cost the whole of the choir, with its chapels, being that
part of the edifice constituting the Collegiate Church—has been restored to its ancient beauty. It was in
1845 that Mr. Holden (with his brother) commenced the work by restoring the exterior of the octagonal
chapter-house on the south side of the choir. The interior has not yet been completed, but is expected to
be finished within a short time. The work was then proceeded with in the following order:—The south
outer wall of the choir, the east end of the south aisle of the choir, the south clerestory from the large
buttress at the east end of the choir to the South turret, and then the great east window. This is a new
memorial-window, of stained glass—subject, the Crucifixion—by Mr. Hardman of Birmingham. The work
of restoration in the nave or parish church, at the cost of the parish, or under the direction of the churchwardens
of the parish for the time being, was commenced with the south clerestory, including the turret containing
the winding stair to the roof, between the choir and nave. Subsequently, the north clerestory of the choir,
and in continuation on that side the north clerestory of the nave with the north turret. The Derby Chapel,
on the north side of the choir, having been given up to the parish by the earl of Derby, the next work,
under the direction of the churchwardens, was the restoration of the outer walls of the east end of the Derby
Chapel up to the Ely Chapel, and so round it, and up to the Ducie Chapel, which had undergone some repairs
a few years before. At the same time the large buttresses at the east end of the choir were restored. Next
came the restoration of the tower, at the west end of the church, which we shall notice more fully below.
Lastly, the restoration of the exterior walls of the Jesus or Byrom Chapel was commenced in 1866, and it
was finished externally the same year. The interior is now being restored, and it will be completed in the
course of the year 1867. The restoration of this chapel inside and out has been effected at the sole cost of
its owner, the excellent and venerated Miss Atherton of Kersal Cell.
In the chronological outline given of the restoration of the exterior, nothing has been said of the great
changes effected during the same period in the interior of the edifice. In fact, the whole has been, at various
successive periods, re-arranged in the most durable and permanent manner. In these internal restorations
great care has been taken to improve the ventilation and the heating of the building, which from being, as
lately as twenty years ago, one of the most comfortless church-edifices in England, has now become one of
the most comfortable and suitable in every respect. For the old fittings new ones have been substituted,
much more commodious and appropriate. Pulpits, reading-desks, choristers' seats, and indeed all the seats
throughout the nave, have been renewed, being now open seats, all constructed of the best oak ; any
ornamentation introduced at the ends being in strict accordance with the general architectural character of
the building. One of the last portions improved was the interior of the Trafford Chapel, which has been
1 The small or choir organ in the cathedral was built in 1684 * These were the sandstones of Smedley and Collyhurst, two
by the celebrated Mr. Smith, generally called “Father Smith.” It rocks belonging to the upper part of the middle coal-field. These
formerly stood in a gallery over the entrance to the choir from the stones are both soft and contain a large amount of clay and per-
nave, but a few years ago it was removed to the Derby Chapel. Oxide of iron.-Mr. E. W. Binney, F.R.S., on the Building Stones
Though a very old and small instrument, its tone, especially that of used in Manchester.
the principal stop, is exceedingly fine. The large or parish organ
was built fifty-eight years afterwards.
2 P
290 (The #istory of 3Lancashire.
provided with oak seats, etc., at the cost of the parish, with the consent of the owner, Sir Humphrey de
Trafford, bart. of Trafford Park, who contributed a donation of £200 to this object. The family-vault of
the Traffords, below this chapel, has been closed, we hope for ever. All these alterations, restorations, and
improvements, both without and within the choir and nave, have been executed from the plans, and under
the personal superintendence and supervision of Mr. J. P. Holden, architect. The works in the various
departments have been very satisfactorily carried out. The masonry work for the first year or two was
entrusted to Mr. Redfern, but even then it was under the personal management and care of Mr. Joshua W.
Graham ; and since Mr. Redfern's short engagement, Mr. Graham has had the sole charge of the mason-work,
so that he may be said to have executed the whole since the commencement of the restorations in 1845, and
his fulfilment of his duty has given the fullest satisfaction to all concerned. His work is sound and durable,
and the workmanship good throughout. The woodwork or joinery was entrusted to Messrs. Hulme and
Heron, and subsequently to Mr. Heron, and these two have executed the whole of the woodwork since its
commencement; the wood-carving to Messrs. Banks and Co. of Manchester; and the stone-carving in succes-
sion to Mr. Williams, Mr. Banks, and Mr. Birchenough.
The last restoration about the cathedral has been the tower. The old tower had for many years been in
so dangerous and dilapidated a state that it was forbidden to ring the bells or to hoist a flag on the staff
fixed on the tower-roof. The reports of various architects and surveyors, amongst others of the late Mr. J.
E. Gregan, architect, and the late Mr. David Bellhouse, builder, were all to the effect that the masonry was in
a very insecure state, and that it was necessary to take down the greater part if not the whole of the
tower. This was at length determined upon, and the work of demolition was succeeded by that of
restoration from the plans and under the superintendence of Mr. J. P. Holden, architect, of Manchester. A
brief sketch of the interior of the old tower will show how inevitable had become its removal. Below the level
of the churchyard, and in what may be called the basement of the tower, was a large furnace for supplying the
warming and ventilating apparatus for the nave, where the Sunday and daily services take place. On the ground-
floor was a small platform from which was tolled the morning bell, the passing bell, and the curfew bell; the
bell-ropes being enclosed in wooden spouts passing through the clock-chamber, or first floor of the tower, to the
second floor or ringing-chamber. This chamber-floor was a more recent structure, fixed at about two-thirds
of the height of the great archway between the tower and nave, and received its light only from the upper
part of the west window in the tower. A brick erection, like a large chimney, in the north-west corner of
the tower, was the flue of the furnace, and its iron funnel passed through the roof. The third floor was the
belfry, containing the peal of ten bells. It was covered with a pitched roofing of slates, many of them blown
off or broken, so that rain, hail, and snow fell directly on the bells. An ancient custom existed to ring a
merry peal of rejoicing yearly on the 2d March, to celebrate some long-forgotten anniversary; and two large
flags waved from staves fixed by iron cramps to the pinnacles of the south-east and north-west angles of the
tower. On the 2d March 1792, while the flags were waving and the bells pealing, a tremendous gale of
wind from the south-west suddenly arose, and by the vibration of the tower from the ringing and the
action of the wind on the flags the two pinnacles were overturned. One of them pierced the roof of
the nave, descended through the Chetham gallery, and into the area of the old baptismal font below ; the
other fell in the churchyard on the north side of the tower, and buried itself a considerable depth in
the ground. It cost £133 to repair the mischief. Since this time only one flag has been hoisted on the
tower by a flagstaff rising from the belfry and passing through the centre of the slated roof; but the
timber of this great mast being found much decayed, it was sawn off in lengths and removed piecemeal; and
from that time no convenience existed for displaying a flag from the tower-roof. The bells were so arranged
that eight of them, the largest, were hung in suitable framework on one level, which, with the scaffolding
and supports, pull-wheels, etc., filled the whole floor of the belfry; while the treble and the first bell were
placed on a platform considerably higher than the rest. The tenor bell was secured, mouth downward, by
strong iron rods, so that it could not be inverted, as in ringing; but could only be tolled by a rope attached
to the tongue or clapper. The height of the old tower from ground to roof was 106 feet ; its parapet and
pinnacles, 18 feet; total height to the top of the pinnacles, 124 feet. The work of taking it down was
commenced in 1864, and in May 1867 the new tower, so far as regards its exterior, was raised. Internally
it was completed in the September of that year. With a faithful adherence to the character of architecture
of the old tower, and to that of the cathedral generally, the new tower has been raised to a somewhat greater
height than the old one, by 9 feet in the body of the building, and 6 feet in the parapet and pinnacles; its
height being from the ground to the roof 115 feet, and its parapet and pinnacles 24 feet; in all 139 feet to
the top of the pinnacles, or 15 feet higher than the old tower. The material of which the tower is erected is
of course a much more durable one than the friable and crumbling stone of that which it has replaced. It is
a millstone grit from the Fletcher Bank quarries near Ramsbottom, on the estate of the earl of Derby. The
new tower has absorbed about 70,000 cubic feet of this stone ; which, on a computation of 14 cubic feet of it
* The bishop of Manchester laid the corner-stone of the new tower on the 15th June 1864.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſhamriješter 43arisiſ. 291
weighing a ton, would give the total weight of the stone in the tower as 5000 tons. The erection of this
structure was entrusted to Mr. Joshua W. Graham, who has ably executed his work. The foundations are
most solid, compact, and durable ; their base lying at a depth of nearly 12 feet below the level of the grave-
yard at the west door of the cathedral. The basement-walls are altogether about 7 feet in thickness; they
rest upon two courses of foundation-stones, each about 18 inches in thickness. The floors or chambers in
the new tower, above the ground-floor, are—first, the bell-loft or ringing-chamber; above that the clock-
chamber; over that the belfry, which is covered by the roof. The floors in the tower are supported on
stone corbels, running entirely round the inner walls of the tower; the beams and other woodwork
rest upon these corbels; so that the walls, throughout the entire height of the tower, are unbroken.
The roof is of slate, having an ordinary pitch in the centre, with a level passage or walk about
3 feet wide just within the parapet. The flooring of this walk is of stout flagstone 6 inches thick. The
ten bells of the old peal (which, during the taking down of the old, and the building of the new tower, were
placed in a wooden shed on the north side of the graveyard) were carefully raised to the new belfry by some
ingenious hoisting machinery, the invention of Mr. Graham, which easily lifted from one to ten hundredweight
a height of 110 feet in two minutes. The same machinery was of much use in the raising of the heavy
stones for the walls, parapet, and pinnacles, and indeed greatly facilitated and expedited the whole
work of erection. Internally, in its lower stage, the tower is connected with the nave by a large open
Gothic arch of the same (Perpendicular) style and period as the tower. The west window is of five lights,
and is divided into two stages by a transom, embattled outside and enriched with foliated work inside. The
outer arch of the west or tower doorway is a faithful rendering of the fine mouldings of the old door.
Standing within this door and looking eastward, the spectator has a fine vista before him, stretching over the
nave and choir to the Chetham Chapel and great east window. The total cost of the new tower (estimated
at about £10,000) was, it is understood, defrayed by a public subscription, aided by some very munificent
private donations. The bells are used for all purposes of tolling, chiming, etc., but are not allowed to be
rung, in changes or otherwise, till the masonry of the tower shall have had ample time to set and settle—to
consolidate the cement and to settle down so much as is natural and fitting, having regard to its great weight
of superstructure. The opportunity was taken, while the bells were deposited in a shed in the churchyard,
to take rubbings of the inscriptions which encircle them, and which are as follows:—1st or treble bell .
“I. R. fecit. R. Smith, B. Turner, R. Ormrod, C. Wardens 1825.” 2d bell: “John Rudhall fecit, 1825.”
3d : “A. R.” 4th : “Given by Manchester. R. D.—G. O.-I. R.—1706.” 5th : “Soli Deo Gloria. 1706.”
6th : “Recast by Abel Rudhall, 1749.” 7th : “Abraham Rudhall, Bell Founder. God save the Queen
and the Church. 1706.” 8th : “To all our benefactors [to] this Church, let all say Amen.—Prosper it.
We ware [sic] all cast in Glovcester, 1706.” 9th : “A. R. [a bell] Tho. Garnet, Fran. Beswick, Robert
Clegg, George Richardson, C. W. [churchwardens] 1706. 10th or tenor bell: “I was recast at Glocester,
at the expense of the parish. 1815. Thos. Salter, Josiah Kearsley, Thomas Brierley, churchwardens.” All
the inscriptions are in Roman capitals, except those upon the seventh and ninth bells, which are in black letter.
Six of the present ten bells appear to have been cast in 1706, by Abraham Rudhall, a celebrated bell-founder
at Gloucester; the sixth was recast by an Abel Rudyard, perhaps Abraham's son, in 1749; the tenth was
recast at Gloucester in 1815, and the first and second were cast so lately as 1825, by John Rudhall, a
descendant of Abraham. This family have been hereditary bell-founders for one hundred and fifty years or
more, from 1684; the business passing from Abraham senior to Abraham junior, then Abel, Thomas, and
at last John, down to 1830, when it was fused into the foundry at Whitechapel.”
The total cost of these restorations can only be stated generally, and as an approximation to the
amount. Those of the choir and its chapels, and the chapter-house (not including the reredos or the
painted windows), will approach £7000; those of the nave will be about £18,000; and the new tower will
cost about £10,000; making a total cost, since 1845, of not less than about £35,000.
1 For an account of a parish meeting on the bells and its results, the following epitaph in Gloucester Cathedral:—“Abraham Rud-
see Rev. John Booker's Chapels of Didsbury and Chorlton, vol. hall, bell-founder, famed for his great skill, beloved and esteemed
42 of the Chetham Society's series, pp. 92-94. for his singular good-nature and integrity, died Jan. 25, 1735
2 See Rev. H. T. Ellacombe's Church Bells of Devon, which gives aged 78.”
292 The #istory of 3Lancašijire.
MANCHESTER CATHEDRAL.
The following financial statement for the year 1866 has been published:—
Dean and Chapter of Manchester.—Abstract of General Account, pursuant to the Act 13 and 14 Vict. (1850) cap. 41, sec. 35.
CHARGE. r DISCHARGE.
1866. Christmas. . - 1866. Christmas.
To tithe rent charges, one year's proceeds . £2947 19 2 | By charges of management, rates, taxes, etc. . #921 17 10
To one year's rents g © § g 6127 5 4 || By salaries of singing men and college officers . 701 19 6
To one year's dividend on stocks, and interest on By repairs, insurances, etc. & tº - 46 13 6
other securities . g * g 782 12 3 | By synodals, procurations, and pensions. g 4 2 8
To one year's fees on alienations g g 85 1 0 | By property-tax . º o º wº 156 9 6
To one year's grave-money—St. Mary's § 2 10 0 | By interest re Rigg's estate, one year to the 31st of
December 1866, on £2000, at £3% per cent, less
income-tax . . e & & g 65 11 2
By repair and restoration of choir g g 437 2 0
By miscellaneous payments £, g & 175 14 9
£2509 10 11
By balance £7435:16:10, distributed as under:
Very Rev. the Dean £2000, less income-
tax . ge * . £1966 13 4
Executors of the Rev. Canon Wray 442 3 3
Rev. Canon Richson £600, less income-
tax . e o * 590 0 0
Rev. Canon Marsden £600, less income- -
tax . & . * 590 () ()
Rev. Canon Gibson £600, less income-
tax . e t º 590 0 0
Rev. Canon Birch £397 : 16 : 1, less
income-tax . * , © 391 3 5
Rev. H. H. Westmore, chaplain or
minor Canon, balance of £250, less
income-tax . { } g 228 6 8
Rev. J. Troutbeck, ditto . g 228 6 8
The Ecclesiastical Commissioners for -
England, remainder . g 2409 3 6
- 7435 16 10
#9945 7 9” #9945 7 9
Correct : JoHN BURDER, N.P. Deputy-Registrar.
T)IOCESE OF MANCHESTER.
In their first report, dated March 4, 1836, the Ecclesiastical Commissioners recommended that two new
dioceses should be formed in the province of York—one at Ripon, the other at Manchester. It was not,
however, till the 10th August 1847, that an order in council was made (pursuant to the Act of 10 & 11
Vict, cap. 108, passed 23d July 1847, and entitled “An Act for establishing the Bishopric of Manchester,”
&c.), directing that from and upon September 1, 1847, the Collegiate Church of Manchester is to become a
cathedral church, and the seat of a bishop within the province of York, and the dean and canons are to be
the chapter.
Also that “the deaneries of Amounderness, Blackburn, Manchester, and Leyland, and the whole parish of Leigh, including
the townships of Astley, Atherton, Bedford, Pennington, Tyldesley-with-Shakerley, and Westleigh, otherwise Leigh, in the
Deanery of Warrington, all in the county of Lancaster and diocese of Chester, together with such parts of the respective deaneries
of Kendal and Kirby Lonsdale, in the same diocese, as are in the same county, shall be severed from the diocese of Chester, and
become the DIOCESE OF MANCHESTER.
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF MANCHESTER is to consist of the deaneries of Blackburn, Manchester, and Leyland, and the whole
parish of Leigh, including the aforesaid townships. The parish of Leigh is to be detached from the deanery of Warrington, and
to form part of the deanery of Manchester.
THE ARCHDEACONRY OF LANCASTER is to consist of the deanery of Amounderness, and so much of the deaneries of Kendal
and Kirby Lonsdale as are before proposed to be included in the diocese of Manchester. The aforesaid portions of the deaneries of
Rendal and Kirby Lonsdale to be detached, and to be united and constitute the deanery of Tunstall. The deanery of Furness
and Cartmel, in the county of Lancaster, to be detached from the diocese of Chester and united to the diocese of Carlisle.
These changes having been effected, the ARCHDEACONRY of MANCHESTER consists of the DEANERIES of BLACKBURN, MAN-
CHESTER, and LEYLAND.
The ARCHDEACONRY of LANCASTER consists of the DEANERIES of AMOUNDERNESS and TUNSTALL.
The ARCHDEACONRIES of MANCHESTER and LANCASTER constitute the DIOCESE of MANCHESTER.
According to the corrected census of 1861, the whole diocese contains a population of 1,667,720 souls.
The Right Reverend James Prince Lee, D.D., was nominated to the see 23d October 1847, elected 17th
November, and the royal assent to his election given 13th December. His Lordship was confirmed 11th
January 1848, and consecrated on the 23d of the same month at Whitehall by the archbishop of York, and
the bishops of Chester and Worcester. He was enthroned at the cathedral February 11, 1848. The
archdeacon of Manchester is the Wen. Richard Durnford, rector of Middleton. The archdeaconry of Lancaster
is vacant. The chancellor of the diocese is the Worshipful A. F. Bayford, LL.D., Doctors' Commons, London
39tumbrell of Salton–ſhanthester parish. 293
The city of Manchester, the seat of the see of that name, is ecclesiastically within the archdeaconry, and
also within the rural deanery of Manchester.
In the diocese of Manchester, in the three years ending October 1866, seven consolidated chapelries and
seventeen district chapelries were assigned, seven districts were constituted under the Parish of Manchester
Division Act, and two districts, or new parishes, were constituted under the New Parishes Acts—viz, St.
Mary, Balderstone (Rochdale), and St. Mark, Bolton-le-Moors.
In addition to the Collegiate Church, there are in Manchester and Salford the following edifices
belonging to the national establishment, with the names of the incumbents and the dates of their institution :-
TRINITY CHURCH or CHAPEL, Salford, built and endowed by Humphrey Booth, esq. in the year 1634, and rebuilt in 1752. This
is now a parish ; the present rector is the Rev. G. Allen (1860). ST. ANN's CHURCH, forming the south side of St. Ann's Square,
founded in 1709, under the patronage of Lady Anne Bland and several other benefactors, is a handsome Corinthian edifice, and
was consecrated on the 17th of July 1712. –Present rector, the Rev. J. Bardsley (1857). ST. MARY's CHURCH, situated in the
church lands, Deansgate, a Doric edifice built by the warden and fellows of the Collegiate Church under the authority of an act of
parliament, was opened for public worship on the 29th of September 1756. The act for building this church invested the collegiate
body with a power of selling the pews, and with the privilege of granting leases for ninety-three years of the parsonage-field on
which the church is erected, and the whole of the land was very soon disposed of advantageously for building purposes. I-Present
rector, Rev. E. A. Lang (1857). ST. PAUL's, a brick building at the east end of Turner's Street, succeeded St. Mary's, and was
consecrated on the 28th of July 1765.-Present rector, Rev. R. Lamb (1848). ST. JoHN's CHURCH, in Byrom Street, built by
Edward Byrom, esq., son of the stenographer, under the authority of an act of parliament, was begun on the 28th of April 1768,
and consecrated the 7th of July 1769; this church is deservedly admired for its paintings and for the general neatness and elegance
of its interior.—Rector, Rev. William Huntington (1831). ST. JAMES’s CHURCH, a brick building in Charlotte Street, was erected
by the Rev. Cornelius Bayley, D.D., and consecrated on the 18th of August 1788.-Rector, Rev. J. L. Figgins (1866). ST.
MICHAEL’s CHURCH, a brick building in Angel Street, built by the Rev. Humphrey Owen, was consecrated on the 23d of July 1789.
—Rector, Rev. J. G. Vance (1844). ST, MARK’s CHURCH, Cheetham Hill, was founded by the late Rev. E. Ethelston, and finished
by his son the late Rev. Charles Wickstead Ethelston, A.M., one of the fellows of the Collegiate Church, in the year 1794–The
present rector is the Rev. Hart Ethelston(1830). ST. PETER’s CHURCH, built by Wyatt (Doric), at the foot of Mosley Street, and
top of Peter Street, was founded 11th of December 1788 “by the Rev. Samuel Hall, the intended minister, and a considerable
number of the principal ministers and inhabitants of this town,” and consecrated on the 6th of September 1794. The altar-piece in
this edifice is adorned with “The Descent from the Cross,” from the pencil of Annibal Carracci. The patronage of the living is in
trustees.—Rector, Rev. N. Germon (1825). ST. STEPHEN's CHURCH, a brick and stone building in the street to which it
gives name, in Salford, was built by the Rev. N. M. Cheek, and consecrated 23d of July 1794.—Rev. G. N. Merrefield (1866). ST.
GEORGE's CHURCH, a brick building in St. George's Road, was opened for divine service on the 1st of April 1798, but was not
consecrated till 1818, when it was purchased by subscription, and the patronage vested in the bishop of the diocese.—Rector, Rev.
T. Middleton (1849). After the completion of St. George's Church two and twenty years elapsed without the erection of a single
church in the parish of Manchester, although during that period upwards of 80,000 souls had been added to the numerical aggregate
of the parish population. The next erection was ALL SAINTs’ CHURCH, in the centre of Grosvenor Square, of which the cemetery
forms the area. This is a large and elegant stone structure, in the Grecian style of architecture, founded by the Rev. Charles Burton,
LL.D., and consecrated 12th of April 1820. Dr. Burton died in 1867. ST, MATTHEW's CHURCH, Castle Field, is built in the Gothic
style, by the commissioners for the erection of churches, at a cost of £14,000, and will accommodate a congregation of two thousand
persons. The foundation-stone of this church was laid on St. Matthew's day 1822.-Rector, Rev. T. R. Bently (1840). ST.
PHILIP's CHURCH, Whitecross Bank, Salford, was also built by the commissioners at a cost of £14,000. The first stone of this
Corinthian structure was laid in November, and completed in 1825. In 1828, by authority of the commissioners, it was constituted
a district parish church.-Rector, Rev. P. C. Nicholson, B.D. (1849). The two other churches assigned to Manchester under the
Million Act are—the church of ST. GEORGE, Hulme, a beautiful edifice in a florid style of architecture, the foundation of which was
laid on the 7th of September 1826, on a plot of ground presented for the purpose by Wilbraham Egerton, Esq. of Tatton Park.-
Rector, Rev. William Whitelegge, M.A. (1842). And ST. ANDREW's, in Travis Street, Ancoats, opened on the 6th of October
1831.-Present Rector, Rev. C. Richson, M.A. (1855). The next church built in this parish, like the first, is called CHRIST CHURCH,
in Acton Square, Salford, the first stone of which was laid on the 29th of April 1830. Its first rector was the Rev. Hugh Stowell,
M.A. (1831). On his death in 1865, the trustees appointed his son, the Rev. T. A. Stowell, M.A. (1865), the present rector.
Two Episcopal chapels were erected in the immediate vicinity of Manchester about the middle of the last century: ST.
THOMAS's CHAPEL, at Ardwick, consecrated on the 10th of November 1741, and enlarged in 1777, now a rectory held by the Rev.
N. W. Gibson (1831); and ST. THOMAS's CHAPEI, at Pendleton, built at the cost of Samuel Brierley, esq., and consecrated
the 26th of July 1776; the present incumbent is the Rev. A. Lane (1834). In St. Clement's Church, Lever Street, opened
for public worship on Christmas day 1793, the service according to the liturgy of the Church of England is used. The chapel of.
St. Luke, Bedford Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock, built in 1804, was consecrated in 1858, rebuilt in 1865, and is now a parish and
rectory. — Present rector, Rev. W. A. Darby (1858). To all the principal churches there are burial-grounds attached; but
most of these within the city and populous suburbs are closed under the burial acts. There are, however, several large cemeteries
open—at Ardwick (8 acres), Harpurhey (11 acres), Salford (borough), in Eccles New Road,” Chorlton (Union), [the Rusholme Road
Cemetery has been closed for years, and the Wesleyan Cemetery, Cheetham Hill. The Manchester New Cemetery, near the Philips
Park, has an area of 41 statute acres. The most easterly portion of the ground, that assigned to the Roman Catholics (7% acres), was
consecrated in October 1866; the adjoining portion, for dissenters of various denominations (14 acres), in May 1867; and in August
1867 the bishop of Manchester consecrated the larger division of the cemetery (19% acres), the nearest the city, for interments
according to the rites of the Church of England. In addition to the residence of the registrar and the lodges, there is in each of the
three divisions of the cemetery a neat, substantial, and commodious chapel. The interments in the Church of England portion of
the cemetery commenced on Thursday, the 8th August 1867. The total acreage available for interments (in nine sections, lettered
1 The heavy ball and cross of copper gilt on the summit of the
spire of this church having become dangerously bent by a gale of
wind in December 1822, Mr. Philip Wotton, the “steeple-climber,”
raised himself to the top of the spire on the 10th May 1823, by
means of a chain of ascending ladders, and lowered the ball and
cross safely to the ground.
* The Salford Borough General Cemetery, New Barnes, on the
Eccles New Road, near Weaste, was opened on the 1st September
1857. Its area is about 21 acres, of which the original apportion-
ment was—Church of England portion, 11 acres; Dissenters, 6 a. ;
and Roman Catholics, 4 a. ; but in 1861, it being found that the
interments of Dissenters exceeded those in the Church of England
portion, these two parts were equalised to 8% acres each, the
Roman Catholic portion remaining as before. The total interments
in the first three years respectively were 22.45, 2868, and 2868. In
the period of three years the number of interments in the Church
portion was 2898, in the Dissenters' part 3508, and in the Roman
Catholic ground 1575. Each portion has its own mortuary chapel,
that of the Church of England having a lofty tower with clock ;
the Roman Catholic Chapel is a handsome edifice ; that of the
Dissenters a neat and quiet structure; all of the same style of
architecture. - +.
294 (The #istory of £antaghire.
A to I) contains 7020 spaces for graves, each 8 feet long by 4 feet wide. An order in council was issued in May 1867 requiring
that the entire surface of the Angel Meadow new burial-ground, now disused, adjoining St. Michael's Churchyard, be covered with
stone, asphalte, or other hard material, and be surrounded with sufficient fencing to prevent intruders.
The following were the Established churches in Manchester and neighbourhood in 1865-66:—The Cathedral All Saints' (Grosvenor
Square); All Saints' (Newton Heath); All Souls' (Every Street, Ancoats); Christ Church (Acton Square, Salford); Christ Church
(Ashton New Road); Christ Church (Harpurhey); Christ Church (Moss Side); Holy Trinity (Stretford Road); St. Alban's (Waterloo
Road); St. Andrew's (Travis Street); St. Ann's (St. Ann's Square); St. Ann's (Pendleton); St. Ann’s, Albert Memorial Church,
(Queen's Road, Miles Platting); St. Barnabas's (Rodney Street); St. Barnabas's (Ashton Old Road); St. Bartholomew's (Regent Road,
Salford); St. Catherine's (Collyhurst Road); St. Clement's (Lever Street); St. George's (Rochdale Road); St. George's (Pendleton);
St. George's (Hulme); St. James's (George Street); St. James's (Birch, Rusholme); St. James's (Gorton); St. John's (Byrom
Street); St. John's (Failsworth); St. John's (Miles Platting); St. John Evangelist (Bury New Road); St. John's (Longright); St.
John's (Pendlebury); St. John Baptist (Hulme); St. Jude's (Canal Street, Ancoats); St. Luke's, Bedford Church (Medlock); St.
Luke's (Cheetham Hill Road); St. Luke's (Weaste); St. Margaret's (Whalley Range); St. Mark's (Cheetham Hill); St. Mark's
(City Road, Hulme); St. Mark's (West Gorton); St. Mary's (St. Mary Street); St. Mary's (Upper Moss Lane); St. Mary's (Higher
Crumpsall); St. Matthew's (Liverpool Road); St. Matthias's (Broughton Road, Salford); St. Michael's (Angel Street, Rochdale
Road); St. Michael's (Lower Moss Lane, Hulme); St. Oswald’s (Collyhurst); St. Paul's (Turner Street); St. Paul's (Stretford
Road); St. Paul's (Brunswick Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock); St. Paul's (Kersal Moor); St. Paul's (Pendleton); St. Peter's (St. Peter's
Square, Mosley Street); St. Peter's (Levenshulme); St. Peter's (Blossom Street); St. Peter's (Blackley); St. Philip's (Bank
Parade, Salford); St. Philip's (Ridgway Street, Butler Street); St. Philip's (Chester Street, Hulme); St. Saviour's (Plymouth
Grove); St. Silas's (Ashton Old Road); St. Saviour's (Springfield Lane, Salford); St. Saviour's and St. Jude's (Granby Row); St.
Stephen's (St. Stephen Street, Salford); St. Stephen's (Milton Street, Stockport Road); St. Thomas's (Ardwick Green); St.
Thomas's (Pendleton); St. Thomas's (Derby Street, Red Bank); St. Thomas's (Old Trafford); St. Thomas's (Lower Crumpsall);
Trinity (Sacred), (Chapel Street, Salford); Trinity (Holy), (Stretford Road); Trinity (Holy), (Platt Lane, Rusholme).-75 churches.
From the period of the Reformation, when the Catholics were ejected from the Collegiate Church, we have no authentic
account of any place of worship appropriated to their use in this town earlier than the beginning of the last century, when they
had a chapel in Smithy-door, in a building subsequently used as the Grey Horse public-house, unless indeed a dilapidated building,
described by Mr. Barritt, may have been appropriated to this purpose. “During the alteration of the streets of Manchester (about
1788), and a little before the east-side of Old Millgate was pulled down,” says he, “I went to examine the old wood buildings, and
was shown a stone hollowed within, and carved on the outside with plain escutcheons; the uppermost rim or edge of the stone
was that of an octagon. A person inhabiting the building said twenty or thirty years ago this stone was fixed upon a pedestal or
foot, which stood in the yard to the back of the house, and was always called the font, near which was the remains of an old stone
building, with a flat roof, and a large circular window projecting outward in the form of a bow, and having the appearance of an
old religious house, and had long gone by the name of the chapel; but whether it was the remains of a chapel I cannot say, having
never read or heard of anything of the kind before (in this situation), yet this window fronts the east, and resembles, what they
call it, the chapel. Whether this old font once belonged to it, or was removed from some other church to make way for a more
modern or elegant one, is not now to be determined. * * * * The house I judge to have been built by some one of the Stanley
family, and most likely the Stanleys of Hanford, who bore eagle's claws in their arms.” It was not till 1774, that the Catholic
chapel in Rook Street was erected. Twenty years afterwards Mulberry Street Chapel was built, and on the 27th of September 1820,
St. Augustine's Chapel, in Granby Row, was opened. This spacious and elegant edifice was built at a cost of £10,000, under the
direction of Mr. John Palmer, the architect of Pleasington Priory in this county; and soon after its completion, the remains of
the Rev. Rowland Broomhead, for forty years the revered Catholic priest of Manchester, were consigned to the vaulted cemetery.
The foundation of puritanism was laid in the time of Queen Elizabeth, when, by the advice of her council, an ecclesiastical
commission was sent into Lancashire, to restrain the prevailing vices of the age, and to enforce a more strict observance of the
Sabbath." The principal seat of this commission was Manchester, and Bishop Chaderton, one of the four representatives of the
nonconformists, in the following reign, at the conference held at Hampton Court, was at its head. The next epoch in the history
of Presbyterianism in Lancashire is that when the whole county was divided into Presbyterical classes, from 1646 to 1660.” On
the dissolution of these classes, the Presbyterians were obliged to surrender the Collegiate Church into the hands of the Episcopalians.
The Act of Uniformity, passed in 1662, having prohibited nonconformist ministers from residing in any city or corporate town,
many of the ejected clergy retired to Manchester (then neither), amongst whom we find the names of Goodwin, Tildsley, Finch,
Eaton, Bayes, Bann, Sill, Constantine, and Scoales. Three ministers were ejected and silenced in Manchester—namely, Messrs.
Newcome, Richardson, and Wigan; and Mr. Holbrook of Salford was treated with similar severity. In 1672, when the indulgences,
as they were called, were granted, the Reverend Henry Newcome collected the nonconformists into a congregation, and the chapel
in Cross Street was built in that year. This was the first dissenting chapel in Manchester, and the venerable Oliver Heywood, in
Speaking of it, calls it “a spacious and famous meeting-place.” In 1714, the original chapel was pulled down by a Jacobite mob,
headed by Siddall, the peruke-maker, who afterwards expiated his treasons against the reigning family on the gallows. The sum of
£1500, voted from the public treasury, restored the building, which was enlarged in 1737, and again in 1788. The congregation
worshipping here became Unitarians about the year 1775. Further alterations in the building were made in 1865, and a new organ
presented as a memorial. The Protestant dissenters of this religious persuasion had a chapel in Mosley Street, erected in 1789, and
a third in Dawson's Croft, Gorton Street, Salford, opened on Christmas-day in the year 1824. Both these have disappeared, and
have been replaced by much larger edifices—one, a handsome Gothic edifice, in Upper Brook Street, from a design of the late Sir
Charles Barry, and the other in Bridge Street, Strangeways. Of the former, the Rev. W. H. Herford, and of the latter, the Rev.
Brooke Herford, is minister. In the town and suburbs are five or six other chapels—namely, in Ford Street Salford, Platt
(Rusholme), Rochdale Road, Tomlinson St. Hulme, Miles Platting, Blackley, and Gorton, .
Of various chapels bearing the PRESBYTERIAN name, three bear the name alone, another is also called St. Andrew's, two are Scotch
Presbyterian (one also called Trinity), three are United Presbyterian, one English Presbyterian, and one Reformed Presbyterian.
The oldest congregation, which was in connection with the Secession church of Scotland, had a chapel in Lloyd Street, built in 1799,
but it was taken down some years ago, and the congregation (United Presbyterian) now worship in a handsome church in Brunswick
Oxford Street.—Minister, the Rev. William M*Kerrow, D.D.
The INDEPENDENTS, though existing as a body in this kingdom ever since the time of the Commonwealth, had not any chapel
in Manchester of an earlier date than 1761-2, when Cannon Street chapel was erected. Mosley Street chapel was built in 1788,
and considerably enlarged in 1819 by the addition of a spacious gallery. On the chapel in Cannon Street becoming too small for
the congregation, Grosvenor Street Chapel, Piccadilly, was built for the late Rev. William Roby, with two ample vestries, in which
eight hundred and eighty Sunday School children receive instruction. A large chapel in Chapel Street, Salford, was built in July
1819; and two small chapels, one in Jackson's Lane, Hulme, and the other in George's Street, Windsor, built in 1801, and rebuilt
in 1817. Another large chapel was erected in 1826-7 in Rusholme Road; and the Welsh Independents in 1826 erected a chapel
in Gartside Street, bearing an inscription in Welsh. In all, in the town and suburbs, there are now (1867) thirty-four chapels
connected with this denomination, of which two are Welsh. -
The METHODISTs are a very numerous body in Manchester, and their capacious chapel in Oldham Street, built in 1780, may be

1 See p. 183. * See p. 226.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arish. 295
considered coeval with the establishment of that religious community. When the conference is held in Manchester, it assembles
in this building. The Methodists have also chapels in Gravel Lane, Salford, opened 1790; Great Bridgewater Street, in 1800;
Swan Street, in 1808 (now no longer used); in Chancery Lane, Ardwick, in 1817; Grosvenor Street, Chorlton Row, in 1820;
Brunswick Row, Pendleton, opened 28th of August 1814; in Chancery Lane, Ardwick, opened 1817; in Grosvenor Street,
Chorlton-on-Medlock, opened in 1820; in Oldham Road, opened in 1826; in Oxford Road, opened in the same year; another in
Ancoats Lane; one in Irwell Street, Salford, opened on the 14th of October 1826, etc. The Wesleyan Methodists, under the
government of conference, have classified their chapels in Manchester and its vicinity under circuits, each of which has a superintendent
and other officers. In the first Manchester circuit are six chapels; in the second, five ; third, eight; fourth, four ; fifth, seven ;
sixth, four ; and seventh, four chapels. There is also a Welsh circuit, the chapel in Hardman Street; in all, thirty-nine chapels.
The METHODIST NEW CONNECTION, a body of seceders from the Wesleyan Methodists, divide their chapels into three circuits—
the Manchester South Circuit, including four ; the north, five ; and the Salford Circuit, three chapels.
The METHODIST UNITED CHURCH have ten chapels in their “Lever Street Circuit,” and nine in their “Grosvenor Street
Circuit.” The PRIMITIVE METHODISTs have in their first Manchester circuit five chapels; second, five ; third, three ; fourth, five
chapels. The CONGREGATIONAL, the INDEPENDENT, and the REFORMED METHODISTs have each one chapel.
The BAPTISTs have eleven chapels, the oldest of which is on Thornely Brow, Withy Grove, in the Coldhouse district, and hence
called “Coldhouse Chapel,” built in the middle of last century; the second, built in 1789, is in St. George's Road; and the third,
built in 1807, is in York Street. There are altogether eleven Baptist chapels—“Particular,” “General,” and other—one being
“ Union ” and another “Welsh.”
Though George Fox began his public ministry in Manchester, his followers have never been a very numerous body in this place.
In the early part of the last century, the QUAKERS had a meeting-house in Jackson's Row, Deansgate, which has disappeared ; but
the “graveyard” still remains in that situation, and is used for its original purpose. In 1795, a new meeting-house was built by
this community in Mount Street, with a burial-ground attached to it; but this simple edifice was taken down in the year 1828, and
another and much more elegant, spacious, and commodious building, appropriated to the same purpose, erected on its site.
The Follow ERS OF EMANUEL SWEDENBORG have long been well established in this town. The New Jerusalem Church in
Peter Street, opened for public worship on the 11th of August 1793 by this community, is a spacious and handsome building. The
New Jerusalem Temple, in Bolton Street, Salford, opened on the 19th of September 1813, is also appropriated to public worship,
in conformity to the doctrines of Emanuel Swedenborg. , St. George's Chapel, near St. George's Church, was used by the Sweden-
borgians for some years, but it is now appropriated solely to the reading of the funeral service over those who are interred in the
cemetery. The WELSH CALVINISTIC INDEPENDENTS occupied an old chapel in Jackson's Square, Salford (used by the Unitarians,
till they quitted it for their chapel in Dawson's Croft). They have now three chapels. The BIBLE CHRISTIANs have a meeting-
house, called Christ Church, in King Street, Salford, built in 1800, at the sole expense of the late Rev. William Cowherd, and
vested in trustees for the free use of the congregation; the minister, organist, and singers all serving gratuitously. It is a
peculiarity of this sect that they abstain from animal food and intoxicating liquors, from a persuasion that the practice is conducive
to health, and in accordance with the principles of humanity. After the death of Mr. Cowherd, the late Mr. Jos. Brotherton, M.P.,
occasionally ministered there. Formerly there was a society of NoN-JURORS, who assembled for divine worship in St. Mary's Gate,
under the pastoral care of Dr. Deacon ; but the rebellion of 1745 brought this sect into disrepute, and they gradually dwindled into
a community so small as not to be enabled to support a place of religious worship. The JEWs are much less numerous in Man-
chester than in Liverpool ; they have two synagogues, both in York Street, Cheetham. That of the old congregation is ministered
to by the Rev. Samuel Landeshut ; that of the new congregation by the Rev. Dr. Gottheill. The Jews support day-schools and
infant-schools near the old congregation synagogue ; and in 1867 they formed a board for the relief of all poor Hebrews."
The following is a list (alphabetical as to denomination) of the various dissenting, Roman Catholic, and other places of worship
in Manchester and the neighbourhood in 1866 –Baptist.—1. York Street; 2. Grosvenor Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 3. Higher Temple
Street; 4. Thorniley Brow, Shudehill; 5. Bank Street, Salford; 6. Wilmot Street, Hulme; 7. Gorton; 8. Clowes Street, West Gor-
ton; 9. (Particular) 63 Rochdale Road; 10. (Union) Oxford Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 11. (Welsh) Granby Row. Bible Christians.
—1. Christ Church, King Street, Salford ; 2. Christ Church, Queen Street, Hulme. Roman Catholic.—1. Our Lady's, Blackley ; 2.
St. Alban's, John Street, Ancoats ; 3. St. Aloysius, Ogden Street; 4. St. Ann's, Openshaw ; 5. St. Ann’s, Junction Street,
Every Street; 6. St. Augustine's, Granby Row; 7. St. Chad's, Cheetham Hill Road; 8. St. Edward's, Rusholme; 9. St. Francis's,
Gorton ; 10. St. James's, Church Street, Pendleton; 11. St. John's, Whitecross Bank, Salford; 12. St. Joseph's, Hatter's Lane,
Addington Street; 13. St. Mary's, Mulberry Street, Brasenose Street ; 14. St. Mary's, Failsworth ; 15. St. Mary's, Alma Park,
Levenshulme; 16. St. Michael's, George Leigh Street; 17. St. Patrick's, Livesey Street, Oldham Road; 18. St. Wilfrid's, Bedford Street,
Hulme; 19. St. William's, Angel Street. Christian Brethren.—Grosvenor Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock. Friends' Meeting-House.—
Mount Street, Peter Street. German Evangelical Church.-6 John Dalton Street. Independents.-1. Grosvenor Street, Piccadilly ; 2.
Cavendish Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 3. Liverpool Street, Oldfield Road, Salford; 4. Park Chapel, York Street, Cheetham; 5. Knott
Mill; 6. Rusholme Road; 7. Chapel Street, Salford; 8. Tipping Street, Ardwick; 9. Palmerston Street, Great Ancoats Street; 10.
Stretford Road, Hulme ; 11. Broad Street, Pendleton ; 12. Rusholme ; 13. West George Street, Salford; 14. Bridge Street, Pinmill
Brow ; 15. Hollyhurst Street; 16. Hannah Street, Rochdale Road; 17. Oldham Road; 18. Bury New Road; 19. Chorlton Road;
20. Richmond Hill, Broughton Road ; 21. Longsight ; 22. Levenshulme ; 23. Whit Lane, Pendleton ; 24. Parker Street, Ashley
Lane ; 25. Rochdale Road, Collyhurst ; 26. West George Street, Windsor, Salford ; 27. Charleston, Pendleton ; 28. Cheetham Hill
Road;"29. Gorton Brook; 30. Wood Street, Greenheys; 31. Openshaw ; 32. Union Chapel, Harpurhey ; 33. (Welsh) Gartside Street;
33. (Welsh) Booth Street East, Chorlton-on-Medlock. Methodist, Wesleyan (7 Manchester Circuits). —I. 1. Oldham Street; 2. Iivesey
Street, Oldham Road ; 3. Ebenezer, Red Bank; 4. Hulme Hall Lane and Collyhurst ; 5. Newton Heath ; 6. Harpurhey. II. 1.
63,850) were then :—Church of England, 8, 8776 sittings ; Church
of Scotland, 1, 800 ; Independents, 4, 3776; Particular Baptists,
1, 300 ; General Baptists, new connection, 1, 200; Wesleyan
* The above notices of places of worship do not descend later
than 1835. In the census of 1851 (the only official return of this
kind ever made), Mr. Horace Mann's tables show that there were
then in the municipal borough of
MANCHESTER—(Population, 303,382)—Church of England, 32,
38,120 sittings; Church of Scotland 2, 1060 ; United Presbyterian
Church, 2, 1000 ; Presbyterian Church in England, 4, 3620; Inde-
pendents, 19, 12,698 ; Particular Baptists, 7, 4250 ; Baptists (not
otherwise defined), 1, 240; Society of Friends, 1, 1330; Uni-
tarians, 4, 2700 ; Wesleyan Methodists, 17, 12,973; Methodists,
New Connection, 2, 1150 ; Primitive Methodists, 5, 1856; Bible
Christians, 1, 450 ; Wesleyan Association, 10, 5271 ; Welsh Cal-
vinistic Methodists, 1, 300 ; Lady Huntingdon's Connection, 1,
577; New Church, 1, 750 ; isolated congregations, 2, 220 ; Roman
Catholic, 7, 6850; Greek Church, 1, 86 ; Jews, 2, 428 ; Latter
Day Saints, none returned. Total, 122 places ; 95,929 sittings.
SALFORD.—By the census of 1851, the numbers of places of wor-
ship and sittings in the municipal borough of Salford (population,
Methodists, 4, 4098 ; Primitive Methodists, 1, 800 ; Wesleyan
Association, 2,876; Independent Methodists, 1, 166 ; Welsh Cal-
vinistic Methodists, 1, 500 ; New Church, 1,450 ; Roman Catholics,
1, 1030. Total, 26 places; 21,772 sittings.
CHORLTON.—By the census of 1851, the numbers of places of
worship and sittings in the Chorlton Poor-Law Union (including
the two Chorltons, Ardwick, Hulme, Didsbury, Withington, Gorton,
Heaton Norris, etc., with a population of 123,841) were then —
Church of England, 17, 15,687 sittings; Church of Scotland, 1,60;
Presbyterian Church of England, 2, 2050; Independents, 7, 5964;
Baptists, 4, 2020; Unitarians, 2, 900; Wesleyan Methodists, 16,
7403 ; Methodist New Connection, 1, 240 ; Primitive Methodists,
3, 1303 ; Wesleyan Association, 4, 1588; Calvinistic Methodists.
1, 577; Brethren, 1, 250 ; undefined, 2, 220 ; Roman Catholics, 3,
1200,
296 (Liſt £istorg of £ancashire.
Irwell Street, Salford ; 2. Swinton and Walkden ; 3. Brunswick Chapel, Pendleton; 4. Irlam's-o'-th’-Height ; 5. Regent Road,
Salford. III. 1. Grosvenor Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 2. Great Ancoats Street ; 3. Longsight; 4. Droylsden and Openshaw ; 5. New
Islington; 6. Hyde Road, West Gorton; 7. Bradford; 8. Beswick. IV. 1. Great Bridgewater Street ; 2. City Road; 3. Stretford ;
4. Clarence Street, Hulme. W. 1. Oxford Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 2. George Street, Hulme; 3. Radnor Street, Hulme ; 4.
Rusholme ; 5. Withington ; 6. Chorlton-cum-Hardy; 7. Northen. VI. 1. Gravel Street, Salford ; 2. Higher Broughton; 3. Bradford
Street, Broughton Road; 4. Prestwich. VII. 1. Cheetham Hill; 2. Rydal Mount, Cheetham ; 3. Crumpsall; 4. Blackley.
Welsh Circuit—Hardman Street. Manchester South Circuit—1. Boston Street, Hulme; 2. Percy Street, Ancoats; 3. Broad
Street, Pendleton ; 4. Weaste. Manchester North Circuit—1. Salem Chapel, Bury New Road; 2. Crab Lane, Blackley; 3.
Failsworth ; 4. Culcheth Lane, Newton Heath; 5. Droylsden Road, Newton Heath. Primitive Methodists (four Manchester
Circuits).-I. 1. Cobden Street, Clayton Street ; 2. Collyhurst Street, Rochdale Road; 3. Jersey Street, Ancoats; 4. Harpurhey ; 5.
Bradford Road. II. 1. Rosamond Street, East ; 2. Upper Moss Lane, Hulme ; 3. Rusholme; 4. Longsight; 5. Chapel Field.
III. I. King Street, Salford ; 2. John Street, Pendleton; 3. Pendlebury. IV. 1. Ogden Street, Ardwick; 2. Gorton Brook; 3.
Hyde Road, Ardwick; 4. Bradford; 5. Clayton. Methodist United Free Church (three Circuits).-I. Lever Street Circuit.—1.
Lever Street ; 2. Oldham Road ; 3. York Street, Cheetham ; 3. Blackley; 5. Moston Lane ; 6. Waterloo, Crumpsall; 7. Cheet-
wood; 8. Queen's Road; 9 Chain Bar, Moston ; 10. Manchester Workhouse. II. Grosvenor Street Circuit.—1. Grosvenor Street,
Chorlton-on-Medlock; 2. Great Jackson Street, Hulme; 3. Hyde Road; 4. Bradford; 5. Greenheys; 6. Patrecroft; 7. Beswick Street,
Clayton ; 8. Openshaw ; 9. Levenshulme. III. Salford Circuit.—1. St. Stephen's Street, Salford; 2. Liverpool Street, Oldford
Road, Salford ; 3. Irlam's-o'-th’-Height. Methodist Congregational.—Burnage Lane. Methodist (Independent). —Hanover Street.
Methodist (Reformers).-Chapman Street, Hulme. New Jerusalem (Swedenborgian).--1. Peter Street, Deansgate ; 2. Bolton Street,
Salford. Presbyterian (English). —Upper Medlock Street, Hulme. Presbyteriam (Reformed).-New Bridge Street, Strangeways.
Presbyterian–1. Chapel Street, Salford; 2. Mill Street, Ancoats; 3. Grosvenor Square, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 4. St. Andrew's, Oxford
Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock. Scotch Presbyterian.-1. Trinity, New Bridge Street, Strangeways; 2. Bloomsbury, Rusholme Road.
United Presbyterian.-1. Brunswick Square, Oxford Road; 2. Coupland Street, Greenheys; 3. Gorton. Deutsche Protestantische
Rürche.—Wright Street, Burlington Street. Greek Catholic Church.-Bury New Road. Jews.-1. Synagogue of the old congregation,
York Street, Cheetham ; 2. Synagogue of the new congregation, Park Place, York Street, Cheetham. Tabernacle.—City Road.
Unitarians.—1. Cross Street, King Street; 2. Upper Brook Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 3. New Bridge Street, Strangeways;
4. Platt Chapel, Rusholme ; 5. Dob Lane, Failsworth ; 6. Rochdale Road ; 7. Blackley ; 8. Gorton; 9. Ford Street, Salford.
Welsh Calvinist Methodists.-1. Green Street, Tib Street; 2. Grosvenor Square, Chorlton-on-Medlock; 3. Rigby Street, Salford.
Moravian.--Gorton Lane, Gorton. “Catholic Apostolic Church.”—Stretford Road, Hulme. In this list are enumerated 186 places
of worship.
Much to the honour of Manchester, great attention is paid here to the education of youth, and espe-
cially to the children of the poor. So general indeed and persevering are the endeavours of the benevolent
of all ranks to afford instruction to the rising generation, that no child, however abject may be the poverty
of its parents, needs to be destitute of the advantages of that humble degree of learning which is to be
obtained in a Sunday-school, and in the Lancasterian and National and other day-schools. -
A valuable public institution was added to the charities of Manchester, on the eve of the Reformation,
by a venerable prelate, who had himself braved the thunder of the Vatican. Hugh Oldham, bishop of Exeter,
and a native of the town or its immediate vicinity, whose name he bore (other accounts say of Crumpsall,
near Manchester), “ considering (as the statutes say), the bringing up of children in their adolescence, and to
occupy them in good learning therein, when they may come to age and virility, whereby they may better
know, love, honour, and dread God and his laws; and that the liberal science, or art of grammar, is the
ground and foundation of all other liberal arts and sciences; and for the good mind which he did bear to the
county of Lancaster, where the children have pregnant wits, but have been mostly brought up rudely and
idly, and not in virtue, cunning, education, literature, and in good manners,” determined to establish a free
grammar-school, and built a school-house adjoining westward to the college of Manchester, to which he gave
the name of “MANCHESTER SCHOOL ;” and for the endowment of this foundation he purchased a lease for
sixty years of the corn and fulling mills situated on the river Irk, which mills had 400 years before con-
tributed to endow the now tottering abbey of Swineshead. He also caused other lands in Manchester, in
Ancoats, and a burgage in Millgate, to be disposed of, and converted to the use of this school. The property
thus devised was vested in Hugh Beswick, clerk, and Joan Beswick, widow, who, having established their title
by a suit in the duchy court, gave and granted by deed and charter of April 1, 1524, the mills, lands, and tene-
ments, with other possessions, to the first feoffees—viz. Lewis Pollard, Anthony Fitzherbert, William Courtney,
Thomas Davies, and Alexander Radcliffe, knights; and to John Byron, Edmund Trafford, Richard Ashton, Thur-
stan Tildsley, Robert Langly, Richard Holland, and John Reddish, esquires. When the feoffees were reduced to
four, it was provided by the statutes that they should fill up the original number by electing their successors,
who were to be honest gentlemen of the parish of Manchester, and so on for ever. But this was afterwards
overruled by an ordinance of the parliament under the Commonwealth, which was confirmed at the Restoration
by an order of the privy council. The school so established was directed to be taught after the manner of the
school of Banbury. The master and usher were directed to “teach freely and indifferently every child and
scholar coming to the school, of whatever county or shire, without any money or other rewards taken
therefor, as cock-penny, victor-penny, potation-penny, or any other whatsoever except only his said stipend
and wages.” The salary of the high-master to be £10 a-year, and of the usher £5 a-year, to be paid quarterly.
The surplus fund to be expended in exhibitions at Oxford and Cambridge for boys brought up at this school;
but no scholar to receive more than £1 : 5: 8 yearly.
The warden, two feoffees, and the high master for the time, were appointed by this deed to the auditor-
ship of the accounts; for which service they were allowed “a dinner of 5s, charges amongst them” yearly,
* Ducatus Lancastriae, in Cal. of Pleadings, Part i. p. 185.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſianchester 33arish, 297
and the sum of 3s. 4d. to the master and fellows of the college yearly for their good and safe looking after
the money-chest, in which were also kept the muniments of the school. Such were the principal original
statutes of the grammar-school; but the alteration in the value of property since that time has wrought
strange changes, and, while the neighbouring grammar-schools of Rochdale and Middleton, from their defective
foundations, have sunk into penury, though with funds originally and contemporaneously as ample as those
of Manchester, this institution still flourishes, and enjoys the means of diffusing the most extensive benefits
(1835). The high master and the second master have each a stall in the Collegiate Church, over one of which
is inscribed Archididascalus, and over the other Hypodidascalus. Three assistant masters have been added
successively by the trustees—namely, the master of the lower school, or the petties, the high master's assistant,
and the Second-master's assistant. The mathematical master is without a salary from the school estate.
One principal source of revenue to this school is derived from the mills on the Irk, of which there are
three—two corn-mills, and a mill where woollen cloth was fulled as early as the days of Edward III., and in
which snuff and pins have been more recently manufactured. In the time of the civil wars in the seventeenth
century, Thomas Prestwich, esq., son of Sir Thomas Prestwich, one of the commissioners of array, was the
lessee of the Manchester mills, but in consequence of his active exertions in the siege of Manchester, it was
directed by parliament that his lease should not be renewed; and Mr. Rigby and Mr. White were appointed
by the same authority to prepare an order respecting the sequestration of the rents and revenues of the free
school according to the trust reposed in the feoffees. Till 1758, all the inhabitants of Manchester were
required, by a right of soke existing since the time of Thomas de Grelle (1301), and probably from a much
earlier date, to grind their corn, of whatever nature, at the Irk mills; and almost interminable litigation was
carried on between the feoffees and the inhabitants for the maintenance of this feudal right." At length a
species of compromise was effected under the authority of parliament in 1758, by which it was provided that
the soke privilege of the feoffees should be abolished except as to the grinding of malt, which they should
retain exclusively at the school-mills, receiving a payment in money of one shilling per load of six bushels for
grinding the malt, and for carrying the same to and from the respective dwellings of the inhabitants. Owing
to abuses that had crept into the management of the corn-mill, persons were unwilling to send their malt to
grind at this mill; but through the exertions of Dr. Smith the high master, seconded by Mr. Grime the
steward, and still more by Mr. Josiah Twyford, his successor, this mill, which scarcely before defrayed its own
expenses, now (1836) produces for the charity upwards of £2000 a-year.
In 1825, the commissioners appointed by parliament “to inquire concerning charities in England for the
education of the poor,” in the discharge of their duties investigated the affairs of this institution; and in their
report “on the Free Grammar-School of Manchester,” they say, that “the total income of this trust, for the
year ending 1825, may be stated at £4408, of which £1760 is derived from rents, and £2250 from the
mills.” . . . . -
“The present school was built in 1776, on the site of the old school mentioned in the deed of the 16th Henry VIII. (1524).
It consists of a large room, in which the boys of the upper school are instructed by the head-master and his assistant, and those of the
middle school by the second-master and his assistant, and a room of smaller size, under the former, in which the boys of the lower
school are taught by the master of that school. Boys are received as boarders by the head-master, the second-master, and the
second-master's assistant. The total number of boarders at the time of the commissioners' inquiry was about forty. Both boarders
and day-scholars are taught together, according to their proficiency in the school. All the boys in these schools receive a classical
education free of expense ; a charge is made for those who are instructed in writing, arithmetic, or mathematics. A payment by
the boys of a cock-penny or gratuity, although contrary to the original ordinances, appears to have been customary until the
appointment of the present head-master, the Rev. Dr. Smith, in 1807, when it was abolished by the trustees.” All boys who are
able to read are admitted, on application to the head-master, into the lower school, where they are instructed in English and the
rudiments of Latin, by the master of that school. They are so admitted at the age of six or seven, and are usually, after remaining
there one or two years, removed into the upper school. The number of boys in the lower school at the time of the commissioners’
investigation, was about fifty. The exhibitioners are elected at the annual meeting in October, by the warden of the Collegiate
Church, and the head-master of the school, and are allowed to retain their exhibitions four years, if resident at either of the
universities of Oxford or Cambridge, without restriction as to any particular college. At the annual meeting in October, the accounts
for the year, which are made up to the August preceding, are examined, with the vouchers, by two of the trustees, or by a trustee
and the high-master, assisted by the solicitor and receiver; and upon the result of their examination being Submitted to the rest of
the trustees present, the accounts are signed by them.”
“It will appear from the foregoing statement of the income and expenditure,” say the commissioners, “that the present
receipts of this charity greatly exceed its disbursements. The amount of the sums received for grinding malt and wheat at the
mill must necessarily be subject to fluctuation ; but if an allowance is made for the probability of a reduction in that branch of the
income, there will still be a considerable surplus. And whenever the contemplated expenditure for improving the residences of the
head-master and second-master shall have been carried into effect, we conceive, that, as there does not appear to be any call for
further accumulation, it will be a proper subject for the consideration of the trustees, in what manner the surplus income can be
most beneficially disposed of in furthering the objects of the foundation.” Since the commissioners' report was made, a further
augmentation of salaries has taken place, and they now (1832) stand as follows:–High-master, £500 per annum, with house, etc.;
second-master, É368; high-master's assistant, #170 ; second-master's assistant, #135; master of the lower School, É130.
The exhibitions in October 1830 were augmented to £60 a-year each. The young men who have
been educated here have, in turn, a claim to sixteen scholarships, called the “Somerset Scholarships,” in Brazen-
* The number of suits at law amounted to sixty from the reign in which the bird was inhumed up to the neck, though expressly
of Elizabeth to the 32 Geo. II. cap. 61 (1758-9). forbidden by the statutes, existed here within the memory of per-
* It is remarkable, that the barbarous practice of cock-throwing, sons still living.
2 Q
298 . Çiſe £igturn of 3Lancagüire.
nose College, Oxford, and to the same number in St. John's College, Cambridge, varying in value from £18 to
#26 per annum, in virtue of the will of Sarah, duchess of Somerset, dated 1679, who founded the exhibitions,
and directed that the scholars appointed to enjoy them should be elected by turns, for ever, “out of Manchester
school in the county of Lancaster, and the Free Schools of Hereford and Marlborough in the county of Wilts.”
In addition to the exhibitions already mentioned, there are others of still greater value, not strictly connected
with the free grammar-school of Manchester, but frequently bestowed upon its scholars. William Hulme, esq. of
Kearsley, in the county of Lancaster, by his will (Oct. 14, 1691), bequeathed certain estates in Heaton Norris,
Denton, Ashton-under-Lyne, Reddish, Harwood, and Manchester, all in this county, to maintain as exhibitioners
“four of the poorest sort of bachelors of arts, taking such degree in Brazen-nose College in Oxford, as from
time to time should resolve to continue and reside there by the space of four years next after such degree
taken, to be nominated and approved of by the warden of the Collegiate Church of Manchester, the rectors of
the parish churches of Prestwich and Bury, for the time being, and their successors for ever.” At the time
of the testator's death in 1691, these exhibitions were of the value of £16 a-year; but, in the 10th Geo. III.
(1770), an act was obtained, which enabled the trustees to grant building leases of the estates for ninety-nine
years, and to increase the exhibitioners to ten, whose stipends should never be less than £60, nor more than
#80. In 1795 another act passed, enabling the trustees to convey in fee, or grant leases for lives or years, by
which they were enabled to increase the number of exhibitioners to fifteen, and to augment the maſtimum
stipend to £120 a-year. By reason of the increased value of the property, the annual proceeds in 1814
amounted to the sum of £2355 ; 14: 5 over and above the interest of the sum of £23,700, which the trustees
had saved out of the rents. A third act was obtained in 1814, enabling the trustees to support a lecturer in
divinity in the said college, with an annual salary not exceeding £150—the lecture to be called “Hulme's
Divinity Lecture;” and the trustees were also empowered to provide rooms and lodgings in Oxford for the
exhibitioners, or to purchase or build a convenient house for their accommodation and residence there, the
sum expended not to exceed £5000. Since that time a house has been erected at Oxford for the bachelors
of arts upon this splendid foundation. The remains of Mr. Hulme lie buried in a small chapel on the south
side of the Collegiate Church [taken down in 1866], with an unostentatious inscription appropriate to his
character; and every year a prize, value £10 in books, is given for the best oration delivered at Brazen-nose
College, by one of the exhibitioners, in memory of so munificent a benefactor.
The original scheme of the founder having become inapplicable to the changed circumstances of the
times, it has been twice enlarged, so as to extend the benefits of the school to more than one class of boys.
In 1849 the trustees of the grammar-school resolved to enlarge the system of education till then pursued. It
was their wish to include, together with the old-fashioned branches of a grammar-school course, the study of
modern languages and of science, and they obtained from the Court of Chancery the necessary confirmation of
their powers for that purpose. It was neglected, however, at that time to make provision for the increased
cost entailed by the contemplated extension of the curriculum. The omission was perhaps the more remark-
able from the circumstance that the revenue derived from the endowment of the institution had already fallen
off in 1849, and, arising as it had done in great part from so precarious a source as a monopoly of grinding
malt within a certain district, was not likely to recover. If any hopes were entertained of its revival, they
were disappointed. The continuance of the decline in the income compelled the trustees to go again to
Chancery in 1865 with a project for obtaining the means of carrying out the extension of the school-course
by the creation of a new class of scholars, who should be subject to payment for the advantages which they
received. On the one hand it was pleaded in support of this proposal that, in addition to the greatest number
of pupils that the foundation could accommodate, there were a large number of boys whose guardians were
anxious to place them at the school, even on terms of payment. On the other hand it was added that a
complete course of modern education, as essential for the free boys as for the others, could not be supplied
from the funds of the school without extraneous support. The result was Vice-Chancellor Wood's decree,
which approved of the admission of a hundred paying scholars at a capitation-fee of not more than twelve
guineas per annum, with a proviso to the effect that foundationers should hereafter be admitted by competitive
examination. This scheme was opposed on various grounds, but chiefly because the reception of a class of
scholars paying fees was contrary to the intention of the founder—that the school should be free to all for
ever. The opponents appealed to the Lords-Justices against the decree of Vice-Chancellor Wood, and the
Lords-Justices (Turner and Cairns) gave judgment in this appeal in May 1867. Lord-Justice Turner, in
delivering judgment, said—The principal feature of the new scheme was the admission of Say 100 boys at
fl2: 12s, a-year, which would bring in £1200, and enable the trustees to carry out the scheme of 1849. The
school could be made to accommodate 350 boys, and there were 250 in it. As the scheme of 1849 could not
be carried out for want of funds, it was the bounden duty of the trustees to come to the Court for proper
alterations of the scheme. As all boys whom the income of the charity was sufficient to educate would
continue to be educated gratuitously, there was no alteration in the constitution of the charity; its whole
income, as far as it went, would still be applied in giving a free education. If the income were not increased
the education provided must be reduced; but by this new scheme free scholars would get for nothing a more
#umbrel of $alfort—ſilantiješter 33arisiſ. 299
extended education, as in the German language, chemistry, mathematics, etc. He objected to competitive
examination before admission; the trustees Ought to determine what boys should be admitted, having regard
to the qualifications of the candidates and the nature of the charity. All the boys, paying and non-paying,
ought to be foundation-scholars. There should be a prescribed order for the introduction of the different
improvements, having consideration to the existing funds. The trustees should consider whether there could
not be a master for every 25 boys; there being now 6 masters for 200 boys in the upper school, or 33 boys
to each master. He suggested whether it would not be prudent and wise to raise the proportionate yearly
payments from £12: 12s, to £16: 16s, so as to leave a margin for exhibitioners and prizes. He thought five
years of age too young for admission ; and he thought there should be a larger quorum than three out of twelve
trustees. Let these observations and suggestions be considered, and the scheme as further settled be sent to
him for final decree. Lord-Justice Cairns said he entirely concurred in the conclusions and suggestions of
Lord-Justice Turner. This last amended scheme was confirmed and approved by an order or decree of the
Court of Chancery, which revoked former orders and decrees as to schemes of December 1839, July 1843, and
January 1849. The scheme under which the school is now governed and regulated is substantially that
sanctioned by the Lords-Justices; it is set forth in a schedule to the order of the Court of Chancery, extending
to 53 provisions or articles—at much too great length for insertion here. During the Midsummer vacation of .
1867, the official advertisement of re-opening stated that there would be about 25 vacancies for free scholars.
The following is a list of the feoffees of the grammar-school in 1867 :—Sir Elkanah Armitage, chairman;
Messrs. Oliver Heywood, Robert Needham Philips, M.P., Robert Barbour, E. R. Langworthy, John Peel, M.P.,
Charles Hilditch Rickards, William Romaine Callender, John Morley, James Chadwick, Murray Gladstone,
and Richard Johnson.
NAMES OF THE HIGH-MASTERS FROM THE FOUNDATION IN 1519 TO THE YEAR 1867.
17 Ralph Brideoake, D.D. 25 Chas. Lawson, M.A.
18 Nehemiah Painter 26 Jerh. Smith, D.D.
19 John Wickes, M.A. 27 Robinson Elsdale, M.A., (D.D.)
20 Wm. Barrow, M.A. 28 J. W. Richards, M.A.
21 Thos. Colborn, M.A. 29 Nicholas Germon, M.A.
22 John Richards, M.A. 30 F. W. Walker, M.A. (the pre-
23 Henry Brooke, M.A. sent high-master, September
24 Wm. Purnall, M.A. 1859).
9 James Batison
10 Richd. Raynton
11 Thos. Cogan, M.B.
12 Edw. Chetham, M.A.
13 Edw. Clayton
14 John Rowland, M.A.
15 Thos. Harrison
16 Robt. Simmonds
1 Thos. Pleasington
2 Wm. Hind
3 James Plumtree
4 Richd. Bradshaigh
5 Thos. Wrench
6 Wim. Jackson
7 Edw. Pendleton
8 Wm. Terrill
As the Reformation marked the period of the foundation of the free grammar-school at Manchester, so the
Commonwealth serves to fix the time of the establishment of the blue-coat hospital or school and public free
library in the college of that place; and as the founder of the classical seminary was very appropriately a dignitary
of the church, so the benefactor of the more humble, but scarcely less useful, establishment for the instruction
of artizans and tradesmen, was himself a person engaged in trade. Humphrey Chetham, esq., a merchant
and manufacturer of ancient family, residing at Clayton Hall, near Manchester, and at Turton Tower in the
neighbourhood of Bolton, who had filled the office of high-sheriff of the county palatine of Lancaster in 1635,
by his will, bearing date the 16th of December 1651, bequeathed to his nephews George Chetham and
Edward Chetham, being himself a bachelor, the sum of £7000, to be expended in the purchase of two
estates of the clear yearly value of £420, both of them to be conveyed to four-and-twenty feoffees named, in
trust, to the intent that the whole property and revenues should be employed in founding and endowing an
hospital for maintaining, clothing, educating, bringing up, and apprenticing, or obtaining other preferment,
for forty healthy boys, born in wedlock, the sons of honest and industrious parents. The habits of the
founder's life were, it appears, benevolent, and he had been accustomed to maintain and educate 22 boys, 14
of them of the town of Manchester, 6 of Salford, and 2 of Droylsden, who were to form part of the 40. The
boys were to be chosen in the following proportion :-
14 of Manchester—increased about 1700 to 21; in 1780 to 28; and in October 1843 to 36
6 of Salford . º 9 12 tº 15
3 of Droylsden 4 6 7
2 of Crumpsall 3 4 5
10 of Bolton . 15 20 25
5 of Turton . 8 10 12
*-*.
40 Original number. Increased to 100
The election of the children and officers he wested in the feoffees, and the nomination of the children in
the churchwardens and overseers of the respective townships; the children to be eligible for admission between
the ages of six and ten years, and to remain respectively till they attained the age of fourteen years. On
quitting the school they are bound apprentices, with a fee of £4 each, or otherwise provided for, and, casting
off their antiquated robes, they are furnished with two good suits made after the fashion of our own times."
Increased to 60 Increased to 80
1 Parents or others wishing to obtain admission for a child to
the hospital must procure a form of petition from the governor or
one of the trustees, and, the blanks being filled with the requisite
information, the petition must be delivered to the governor, signed
by the guardians, overseers, or churchwardens of the township, and
accompanied by certificates of the birth and baptism of the candidate,
twenty-eight days at least previous to the meetings of the feoffees
on Easter Monday, and the first Monday after Michaelmas Day.
300 (ſhe ºigturn of £ancashire.
Mr. Chetham by his will also directed that the boys should live together in one house, or two houses, as might
be found most convenient, along with their governor, officers, and servants, and he devised the sum of £500
to purchase such house or houses. At the same time he expressed his wish that the premises called “The
College" might be purchased, if they could be obtained on suitable terms, for the purpose of this institution,
and he was himself in treaty for them soon after the establishment of the Commonwealth ; but the contract
was not made till after the Restoration, when the dowager countess of Derby, Charlotte Tremouille, the
celebrated heroine of Lathom House, conveyed them to the feoffees, and they have ever since been used as
the blue-coat hospital or school and library. The founder by his will further expressed his wish that his
hospital might be incorporated and made a body politic, and King Charles II, accordingly granted a charter
of incorporation, by letters-patent, dated 20th November 1665, in which the founder is styled “our trusty
and well-beloved Humphrey Chetham,” and designated as “a person of eminent loyalty to his sovereign,
and of exemplary piety to God, and charity towards the poor, and of good affection to learning.” The
dress of the boys from the time of Humphrey Chetham, to within a short time ago, resembled that of the
scholars in Christ's Hospital, London. It consisted of an upper long robe or gown of coarse blue cloth,
with a yellow woollen cloth petticoat underneath, and blue worsted stockings; a small blue cap, like a
Highland bonnet, and a pair of linen bands. The robe and petticoat were found to be objectionable on the
score of cleanliness and health; and now the boys wear the ordinary jacket and trowsers; only on Sundays
they wear the external gown and bands. -
Mr. John Robinson is the present governor, and Mr. Alfred Kay is the schoolmaster (1867). The
foundations of the college to the north are washed by the Irk, near its confluence with the Irwell, and the
site is that on which stood the summer camp of the Romans and the baronial mansion of the Gresleys. The
library, which occupies the best room in the building, extends through a long gallery, divided into compart-
ments, and has a commodious and, for the student, delightful reading-room attached, in which there are
original portraits of Humphrey Chetham, the founder; Dean Nowell, one of the first fellows of the college
on Queen Elizabeth's foundation (1575), and himself a Lancashire benefactor; William Whitaker, president
of St. John's College, Cambridge ; Robert Bolton, a native of Lancashire, a learned puritan divine, and an
eminent Greek scholar ; and John Bradford, the Lancashire martyr. The feoffees dine in this room at their
general meetings-at Easter, in July, and in October ; and at the last of these meetings in each year a sermon
is preached in the Collegiate Church, in commemoration of the founder. The present librarian is Mr. Thomas
Jones, B.A., F.S.A., and Mr. Richard Hanby is the sub-librarian. It has been the singular good fortune of
the funds of this charity to be well administered through a period of nearly two centuries; and the present
feoffees rank amongst the leading persons in this county and the neighbouring county of Chester.
GOVERNORS OF CHETHAM HOSPITAL AND LIBRARY_(JUNE 1867).
w Names. Present Residences. When, Elected.
Lord Egerton of Tatton . e & e . Tatton Park, near Knutsford . e . 31st March 1834.
Thomas William Tatton, esq. . º & t Wythenshawe Hall, near Manchester . 2d October 1837.
John S. Entwisle, esq. . & & º . Foxholes, near Rochdale . * ğ & Ditto.
The Earl of Derby g * * * . Knowsley, near Prescot . & e . 30th September 1839.
The Rev. George Heron º gº g . Moore Hall, near Warrington . * . 24th March 1845.
William Ford Hulton, esq. . º ſº g The Cottage, Hulton Park, near Bolton . Ditto.
Samuel William Clowes, esq. . ſº tº . Woodhouse Eaves, Loughborough . . 5th October 1846.
The Very Rev. Dr. Bowers . dº * . The Deanery, Manchester . . g . ist October 1849.
Egerton Leigh jun., esq. e * © . High Legh, Cheshire e • 4 • & Ditto.
Peter Ainsworth, esq. . g & * e Smithells Hall, near Bolton . g . 30th September 1850.
Benjamin D. Naylor, esq. & g * . Manchester . º * e • g Ditto.
Robert Henry Norreys, esq. . º tº . Davyhulme Hall, near Manchester . . 24th March 1856.
James Crossley, esq. © e e e e Manchester & g e * . 6th October 1856.
The Rev. Joseph S. Birley . & iº . Bolton . # © t tº & . 14th October 1857.
The Rev. Henry Mildred Birch e † . Prestwich, near Manchester . tº & Ditto.
Oliver Heywood, esq. . . * tº º . Manchester . & º tº * . 4th October 1858.
John Tomlinson Hibbert, esq., M.P. $ . The Grange, Urmston, near Manchester . Ditto.
The Rev. Edward J. Hornby . e is . Bury, Lancashire . te ge * . 9th April 1860.
Alfred Barton, esq. e * e g . Manchester . te g tº * g Ditto.
The Hon. Algernon Fulke Egerton, M.P. . Worsley . . e © º . . 1st April 1861.
Edward Ovens, esq. & e e & . Manchester . & º g * . 6th October 1862.
Wm. John Leigh, esq. . g & & . Lyme, Cheshire p e ë 49 . 17th April 1865.
The Rev. F. R. Raines . & ſº & . Milnrow, near Rochdale . * * . 2d October 1865.
Hugh Birley, esq. º * & e . Manchester . e e e e . 1st October 1866.
When the number of feoffees is reduced by death or resignation to twelve, the survivors, in virtue of
the provisions of the will, are required to fill up the trust by a new election, but the vacancies are generally
supplied as they occur. - **
To complete the beneficent acts of this ornament to the parish of Manchester and to the county of
Lancaster, Mr. Chetham gave £200, to be laid out in godly English books, “such as Calvin's, Preston's, and
Perkin's works, or other proper for the edification of the common people,” to be fixed in the parish churches
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arish. 301
of Manchester and Bolton, and in the chapels of Turton, Walmsley, and Gorton; and the sum of £1000, to
be expended in books for a public library (there was at that time none in Manchester), to be deposited in
the college, “for the use of scholars, and all others well affected to resort thereto;” and £100 to fit up the
library, with the residue of his personal estate for the yearly augmentation of the said library. The right of
ordering and disposing the books is vested in the feoffees; it is also ordered that none of the books shall be
taken out of the library; and for their better preservation they were ordered to be chained—a precaution
which has been found altogether unnecessary. The sum originally applied to the purchase of books, etc.,
was £116 a-year, but, from the increased value of property, this income has since been increased to about
£700. Such was the germ of the present Chetham Library, now swelled to 30,000 volumes, and forming
a collection worthy of the second city in England.
As Bishop Oldham, by directing the Manchester Free Grammar-School to be open not merely to natives
of Lancashire, but to boys from every county in England, made that a national institution, such seems also to
have been the intention of Humphrey Chetham in founding his Free Library for the resort and use of
scholars of all countries. And it cannot be too strongly stated that this Free Library—not a mere English
library of modern books, but one rich in ancient and scholastic lore—was thrown open to all at a period
more than a century before our great national library, that of the British Museum, came into existence."
The seal of the hospital is of silver, with a hinged midrib behind for a handle. It bears the arms of
Humphrey Chetham, as represented below, with his motto—QUOD TUUM TENE, and the legend—SIGILLUM
HOSPITII HUMFREDICHETHAM ARMIGERI—as expressly directed and sanctioned by the charter granted to it
by Charles II, in November 1665.” -
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In Theology the Chetham Library holds a deservedly high rank, its ample stores comprehending the very rare Antwerp Polyglot
of the Scriptures, the Walton Polyglot, and others; some fine English and other Bibles, of which the most valuable is the Bishops'
Bible (pronounced by the late Mr. Forshall of the British Museum to be the most beautiful and perfect copy he had ever seen), the
Bible once belonging to Bradford, the Lancashire martyr, etc. ; a nearly complete set of the Acta Sanctorum Bollamdi (51 vols.);
numerous collections of the Fathers, commonly called Bibliothecae, etc. Although it possesses but few recent biblical commentaries,
the late Mr. Hartwell Horne recommended students to “consult (for commentaries) the first volume of Mr. Radcliffe's catalogue of
the Chetham Public Library at Manchester.” In History the library has nearly a complete collection of the Byzantine historians,
and a very fine series of the chroniclers and older historians of continental Europe, especially in national collections, as those of
Muratori (Italy), Bouquet and his successors (France), Langebek (Denmark and Iceland), Struve, Freher, Wegelin, Eccard,
Offelius, Schilter, Pez, and others (Germany), etc. It is also rich in English history, including a complete edition of Wellington's
Despatches, (121 vols.) It possesses many illustrated books in various departments:–In the Fine Arts, the Museum Florentinum
(10 vols.), the Galerie Royale de Dresde, the Antichita di Ercolano (9 vols. fol.), the Etruscan Antiquities and the Ancient Wases
of Hamilton (together, 7 vols. fol.), etc. In Natural History, many valuable and costly works in all departments. In British
Archaeology, Gough's Sepulchral Monuments, Stothard’s Monumental Effigies, Blore's Monumental Remains, etc. In Voyages
and Travels, the Voyages Pittoresques (13 vols, fol.), etc. Amongst other works specially noticeable are L’Art de Verifier les Dates
(8 vols.), Aldrovandus (12 vols. fol.), a fine set of Hearne's Works (59 vols.), the works of Tewrdanneths, etc. In Classics, besides a large
number of the Editiones Principes, it includes Valpy's edition of the Delphin Classics, uniting the Bipontine and the Variorum Notes
(194 vols.) The library is now rich in English Poetry, in Bibliography, in Philology, and in Topography, including nearly a
complete collection of De Bry’s Peregrinationes (worth £150), and all the most important county histories, as Nicholl's Leicester-
shire, Surtees' Durham, Baker's Northamptonshire, Ormerod's Cheshire, etc. The collection of MSS. is a very valuable, though little
known, portion of the library. Besides 31 Oriental MSS., it contains more than 150 volumes of European MSS., of which the
greater number are historical, genealogical and topographical, theological and ethical, and Scientific. Amongst the historical MSS.
is a very rare (if not unique) and valuable 14th century copy of the Flores Historiarum (now believed to be the compilation, not of
Matthew of Westminster, but of Matthew of Paris, and perhaps, in part, of John of London), Higden's Polycronicon in English (15th
1 The college building was bought for the Library, and opened * In the edition of 1836 the descriptions of this seal and that
in 1654; Montague House for the British Museum in 1753, and of the collegiate body are confused together, as if both related to
opened in 1755. Sir Hans Sloane died in 1753; Humphrey Chetham Hospital.
Chetham in 1653.












302 (Iſiſe £igturn of 3Lancagijire.
century), Robert Lindsay's Chronycle of Scotland, the Records of Dunkeld, one of the series of “Relations” of the Venetian
ambassadors to England—that of Lando (1620-22), Henry Knyvett's Project for the Defence of England, etc. (1596). The historical
and genealogical MSS. relating to Lancashire and Cheshire are choice and numerous. They include the collections of Dr. Kuerden
(2 vols.), John Palmer (8 vols.), Thomas Barritt (10 vols.), etc., and many contain pedigrees, coats of arms of local and other
families, and several volumes are transcripts from Lancashire documents in the British Museum, Bodleian Library, Oxford, and
the various depositories of public records. The theological MSS. include a New Testament of the later Wycliffe version (about
1430), a Bible of the Latin Vulgate (15th century), a Hebrew Pentateuch on three rolls (leather), a Roman missal, a Roman psalter
from the monastery of Godstow, and various commonplace-books, etc. Among the poetical MSS. are the “Pricke of Conscience,”
by Richard Rolle, the Hermit of Hampole; various “Miscellanies” in verse, including a unique copy of “Torrente of Portyngale;”
“A Boke of Kervyng and Norture,” etc.; the Halliwell Collection of Broadsides (32 vols. folio), including 1309 pieces of poetry
and verse, ballads, etc., and 1791 prose pieces, political, commercial, legal broadsides, proclamations, etc. .
The catalogue of this library, as it now exists, is the successive work of three periods, and of as many gentlemen. In 1791
was printed a catalogue in two volumes 8vo, entitled “Bibliotheca Chethamensis, sive Bibliothecae Publicae Mancuniensis, ab
Humfredo Chetham Armigero fundatae, Catalogus,” compiled by the Rev. John Radcliffe, A.M., librarian. As frontispiece was
prefixed to the first volume an engraved portrait of the founder by Heath, from a drawing by Morland, which is a copy of a fine
portrait in oil in the reading-room. A third volume, printed in 1826, contained a catalogue of the additional books during the
interval of thirty-five years, compiled by the Rev. William Parr Greswell; and appended to these were three alphabetical indices,
one to each volume of the catalogue. In 1862 appeared a fourth volume of the catalogue, compiled and edited by Mr. Thomas
Jones, B.A., F.S.A., the present learned librarian, including all the additional books during a second interval of thirty-six years,
and also an index (alphabetical by authors' names) to all the books in these four volumes of the catalogue. The four volumes
occupy 1301 pages. Of Separate works (not volumes), vol. i. includes books numbered consecutively 1 to 3930; vol. ii. 3931 to
6723; vol. iii. 6724 to 8029; and vol. iv. 8029 to 12,058. In 1791 the library contained, according to the catalogue, 6723 works;
in the next thirty-five years only 1306 works were added; while in the thirty-six years ended 1862 (the present librarian being
appointed in 1845), 4030 works were added. In 1867 a supplementary index was published. -
The library, till a few years ago, contained a number of antiquities and natural curiosities, which were
exhibited, with an Oral description by one of the blue-coat boys; but the contents of this rude museum of an
older time have been removed, and the readers are no longer disturbed by the loud tones of the little showmen
delivering their speech by rote in the rich Doric of the Lancashire folk-speech. Another custom is now “more
honour'd in the breach than the observance:” formerly the library was closed to the student during Whit-
Suntide week, while it was thronged by several thousands of country visitors. Now the gates are closed to
the latter, and the library is open to students only in the festive week.
The estates purchased for the hospital out of the sums bequeathed by the founder are situated at
Sutton-on-the-Hill, in the county of Derby, and at Rochdale, in the county of Lancaster ; while the farms,
forming the investment for the aid of the library are situated in the respective townships of Hammerton,
Essington, and Stevenmore, in the parish of Slaidburn in the county of York.
Manchester and Salford are rich in public charities. In addition to the foundations of Bishop Oldham
and Humphrey Chetham, and the exhibitions of Mr. Hulme, and numerous other charities of more modern
date, there are other funds for the use of the poor to the amount of upwards of £4000 a-year. The
distribution of many of them was formerly confided to the boroughreeve of Manchester, hence called the
Boroughreeve's Charities (now to the Mayor, and called the Mayor's Charities), and in 1792, Thomas Walker,
esq., boroughreeve, at the termination of his year of office, published a list of these charities, which, as he
observes, was accurate as far as it proceeded, but was still deficient in some particulars; these particulars the
commissioners appointed under the Acts of the 58 Geo. III. and the 5 Geo. IV. have supplied ; and the
following will be found a tolerably complete enumeration of this description of charities in Manchester and
the out-townships of this parish :—
THE BOROUGHREEVE'S (now the MAYOR'S) CHARITIES
Are appointed to be distributed to “the poor, aged, needy, and impotent inhabitants of Manchester,” by the
Boroughreeve; they consist of Annual Proceeds.
Marshall’s Charity—£2250, wested in the public funds 3 per cent consols © º 67 [0 0
Clarke's Charity—#3124, stock 3 per cents. e º º º g º #93 14 6
Buildings in Manchester, rental wº g º • † e 150 10 0
Land in Crumpsall ę & tº er * . . 901 17 9
— 1146 2 31
Shuttleworth's Charity—£50, money at interest º 2 10 0
Bent's Charity—£50, interest to poor housekeepers, not paupers 2 10 0
Nugent's Charity—two chief rents, 20s. each . © g 2 0 0
Mosley's Rent-charge, from Collyhurst, to the poor of Manchester 10 0 0
Mayes's Charity—in land, rental to be distributed to the poor . 426 7 9.
Partington's Charity.--land in Little Lever, rental to the poor . 5 0 0
Alms-houses in Miller's Lane, sold on chief rents.
Dickenson's Charity—£100 laid out in chief rents for the poor & g g e e & 5 0 0
Barlow's Charity for apprenticing poor boys—rent-charge from lands at Shrigley, Cheshire sº e e 6 0 0
Sutton's Charity—£400 laid out in chief rents for clothing the poor wº e . . . º 20 0 0
Alexander's Charity—land at Gorton, improved by Brown's £100 tº * > & e † & 40 0 0
Drinkwater's Charity—£100 for the relief of the poor * º * * * e g 5 0 0
Carried forward . #1738 0 0
• * The proceeds of these two charities are distributed yearly to by residents, in printed forms distributed in August) in blankets,
poor persons dwelling in the township of Manchester (recommended counterpanes, and pieces of calico.
#umbret of Šalfort—ſilanchester 43arish. 303
Annual Proceeds.
•. Brought forward . £1738 0 0
Oldfield's Charity—£20 for the relief of the poor * tº e tº * * e g 1 0 ()
Percival’s Charity—lands in Royton, to poor housekeepers tº º g º ſº e & 20 0 0
Mynshull's Apprentice Fund—two messuages in Manchester . g e & * e e 64 2 0
Moss's Charity—£100 to buy blue frize kersey gowns for 5 aged men . & e & e tº 5 5 0
Chorlton's Charity—#50 lent free of interest to young men.
Cartwright's Charity for annual sermon e e 1 0 0
27 ,, to bind apprentices g e ſº 6 0 0
35 ,, 16 bonds at £48—£768, lent interest free.
Richard’s Charity—chief rents for school in Tipping's Court, Cannon Street º † & & 100 0 0
Hind's Charity for clothing and instructing 24 poor children in Manchester, and the same number in Salford—
Lands in Manchester, rental e º * ſº g * , £110 10 0
Purchase-money, site of New Bailey Prison, £1764 º * , g • , º 88 4 0
*-*- 198 14 0
Hartley's Charity—land in Manchester, for poor aged persons . g º © gº & e 14 10 0
Corle's Charity—£55, the interest distributed in bread * e * 2 15 0
Sedgewick's Charity for the poor—chief rents from lands in Manchester 8 3 6
Scholes' Charity—£171 at interest, for 20 decayed housekeepers tº 8 II ()
Butterworth's Apprentice Fund for Dissenters' children—#500 at interest © & e 25 0 ()
Bayley's Apprentice Fund—£100 at interest . tº & * • Y tº. ge ſ 5 0 0
Dame Mosley's Charity—£50 at interest © g * . & © w w g . 2 10 0
Gaskell's Charity—£50 at interest tº * F • * 2 10 0
Various small sums—£100 at interest . e ſº poor 5 0 0
Butterworth's Charity—£100 . º issenters : | 5 () ()
Bailey’s Cross Street Fund—fºo º & * 2 10 0
Birch's Charity—#50 . g • g 4a e & . J * . U 2 10 0
Bent's Charity—chief rents from Manchester and Chorlton-On-Medlock 52 14 0
,, f200 at interest, for Collegiate Church Charity School . 15 0 ()
Nicholson's Charity—£120 at interest for 10 poor inhabitants, not paupers * 6 0 0
Fisher's Charity, to be laid out in bread for the poor (and £60 interest free) . * & 15 11 6
Clayton's Charity—f 30 to be lent in sums of £10 and £15, interest free, to poor homest Churchmen.
Renyon's Charity—£420 at interest for Collegiate Church Charity School * e ſº 21 0 0
St. Paul’s Charity School—£105 stock tº • g tº g 5 5 0
Manchester and Salford Charity School—£2311 stock . 69 6 10
Champion's Charity—£141 : 10s., for bread for the poor ū dº & gº g ge g 7 I 6
Shelmerdine's Charity, distributed to the poor of the Independent Congregation in Cavendish Street, Manchester—
120 guineas e e g * gº s wº º g †: & & 7 0 2
Bearcliffe's Charity—£3000, for the maintenance or relief of 15 poor housekeepers in Manchester and Salford . 112 () ()
Baguley's Charity—£200 towards founding and endowing a Charity School, laid out in chief rents, but not paid! 8 I 4
Whitworth's Charity—£20 for poor housekeepers in Salford and Manchester (lost).
Drinkwater's Charity—#100 for the relief of the poor (lost). -
Chorlton’s Charity—£50 to be lent to young men, free of interest (lost).
Clayton's Charity—£30 to be lent free of interest (lost).
Total Annual Income of Manchester Charities” $ . f2527 11 I
The commissioners in their sixteenth report state, that the sum of £500, bequeathed by Thomas Hudson in 1787 to Charles
Kenyon, then beyond the seas, or to the poor in the event of his not claiming the same, has been very irregularly administered ;
but that Mr. Joseph Tipping, the surviving executor, has proposed to pay the principal and interest, due, on the appointment of
seven trustees, conformable to the provisions of the will. The impropriety of placing trust-money in other than government or
landed security is shown from £400 left by Elizabeth Kirkham in 1762, for the education of poor children in Manchester, having
been lost in the hands of one of the trustees. It has been usual to invest money left for these purposes in chief rents, but on
some occasions land has been purchased with it, and the different effect of the two modes of investment is manifested in the
following example —£120 laid out in land in Manchester by the trustees of Mayes's Charity, 160 years ago, now produces £426,
7s. 9d. per annum ! while £100 laid out by the trustees of Partington's Charity at the same time, in chief rents, produces but £5
er annum ! -
p For Henshaw's munificent charity, see Oldham.
SALFORD CHARITIES. Ann. Proceeds.
Humphrey Booth the elder, founder of Salford Chapel, by deed dated 18th February 1630 left an estate consisting
of 6 acres of land at Shooter's Brook, and 8 acres called Millward Croft, with the buildings thereon, now forming the
upper end of Piccadilly, and extending from thence through Garrett to Oxford Road, called the Standley Barn Charity,
for the better relief, succour, and aid of such poor aged and impotent people, as shall inhabit within the town or borough of
Salford, as the constable and churchwarden shall judge proper. An act of parliament, passed in 1776, gives the trustees
the power to grant building-leases for 99 years,” and although by an exercise of this power the charity sustained a con-
siderable loss for the benefit of one of its former trustees, the present annual produce (1835) is , º * . 3979 4 114
Charles Howarth, in 1636, gave for the use of the poor and the minister e g o & º e 0 10 0
Humphrey Booth of Salford, gentleman, grandson of the above, by his will dated March 3, 1672, devised his “house
and croft in the Gravel Hole, within Salford, and those four closes and barns lying and being near to the Broken Bank,
together with one roode of land which hath a well in it, called Oldfielde Well, for the repair of the chapel of Salford, and,
in case there be any overplus, to be distributed amongst the poor of Salford.” The greater part of the Crescent is erected
upon this land, which yields & º º gº g º º sº & tº º . 530 12 55
Carried forward £1510 7 4
1 Commissioners' 16th Report. * The income in 1867, from chief rents and government stock,
* Some years ago Mr. Alderman Kay presented an able report exceeded £2000 yearly, and was distributed to about 280 recipients
on these charities to the Manchester Corporation, which was printed in sums varying from 2s. to 5s. weekly.
as a pamphlet.—H. - * The yearly income (1867) is about £680, and is devoted to re-
* This act gives the trustees power to extend and direct the pairing Trinity Chapel, Salford, and to the relief of the poor in
distribution. small weekly sums.
304 - (ſiſt £istory of £ancashire.
Carried forward §1510 7 4
Sir Robert Booth’s Charity to the clerk and sexton of Salford Chapel":6100—minus by presentation #20 * 4 0 0
Robert Cuthbertson of Salford, woollen draper, in 1683 left £100 to the poor of Salford & t s g 5 0 0
George Buerdsall of Salford, yeoman, left in 1690 a messuage on the N.W. side of Chapel Street, since rebuilt and
24 0 0
made two messuages * & g © t g g & e * o g *
Humphrey Oldfield, by will dated April 30, 1684, left to the poor of Salford £100, and his divinity books to be
placed in the chancel, with £20 to replenish them, “and £3 for wood-work and chains, that they might not be stolen”! 5 0 0
Charles Broster of Salford, merchant, in 1703 gave for the use of the poor £100, increased to £150, and the interest
of which distributed in clothing for boys and girls * * sº e e * e g • * 7 10 0
Thomas Dickenson of Salford, esq., in 1704 gave for the use of the poor of Salford certain messuages and tenements
near New Bailey Street, the rents of which are applied to providing old men with blue coats” e & * . 42 15 0
Samuel Haward of Salford, chapman, in the same year left property to various charitable purposes, yielding . & 5 0 0
Alexander Davis gave a yearly rent of £2:10s. for lands in Sandywell, and the interest of £50 to the poor . º 5 0 0
John Caldwell, in 1747, gave the interest of £410 in equal moieties to the poor and clerk of Salford Chapel . . 20 10 0
Catherine Fisher, in 1752, gave an annual charge, from houses and land in Salford, to ten poor widows, of . º 2 10 0
Total Annual Income of Salford Charities e ... :#1631 13 4
One of the effects of these charities is to diminish the pressure of the poor-rate upon the inhabitants;
and it is calculated that the contributions of the parishioners in the township of Salford, for the relief of the
poor, do not exceed one-half the amount they would be called upon to pay if these charities did not exist.
The select vestry of Salford, in the laudable discharge of their duty, some years ago procured plans to be taken
of all the charity-lands belonging to the poor of that township ; and they have also possessed themselves of
all deeds and wills relating to the property, for the purpose of guarding against any future misapplication of
the funds. -
CHARITIES IN THE OUTTOWNSHIPS OF THE PARISH OF MANCHESTER. Ann. Produce.
ARDWICK–Birch's Charity, for teaching eighteen children . g te * tº & g º §8 0 0
BLACKLEY-Robert Lichford's Charity, a rent-charge to Support a schoolmaster wº g * t; * 5 0 0
Chetham's Charity, rents of land and buildings, one-third for a preacher at Blackley, and two-thirds for the
relief of the poor e • * e e e e e g º sº * 60 0 0
Charities of Thomas and James Travis, £40 interest, to be paid to the poor of Blackley.
CHETHAM—Bent's Charity (see Manchester). - |
CHORLTON WITH HARDY—Usherwood's Charity, £160, to provide six poor children with clothes and school-wages . 8 () ()
CHARITIES OF SIR. E. MOSLEY AND DAME ANN BLAND.—(See Didsbury.)
CRUMPSALL–School Cottages º * º t * º * * ſº & e 22 0 0
DIDSBURY—Sir Edward Mosley's Charity, £4 yearly for the poor of Withington and Heaton Norris, and £4 for a
schoolmaster at Didsbury ſº * e * * º g * & . & § 8 0 0
Chorlton's Charity, £4 for a distribution of bread every Sunday to the poor, and £1 to the Schoolmaster of
Didsbury * º † re g * & e g & * > e 5 0 0
Boardman’s Charity, £102 : 11:2 in stock, for bread to the poor . g e e tº & 3 I. 6
Bland’s and Linney's Charities—the rent of a close of land purchased with two legacies of £100 each, to poor
housekeepers in Withington, Didsbury, Chorlton, Burnage, and Heaton Norris . & º & H3 0 0
Hampson’s Charity, £100 in trust, #3 given to the minister, schoolmaster, and singers of Didsbury, and £2
in clothing to the poor at Christmas . vº g & * e sº ge g 5 0 ()
Robert Parker, esq. ; a legacy of £200 to a Sunday School, supported by voluntary subscriptions, within the
chapelry.
GORTON.—School: Robert Rider left land in Gorton, to be the site of a Sunday School, dwelling-house, etc. The teacher
of the Sunday School receives the interest of £20, left by the Rev. J. Darby. A sum of money producing £5 per annum
is lost by the trustee's insolvency.
Taylor's Charity, interest of £40, to the poor in bread on Easter Sunday. This payment is voluntary º I 0 0
HEATON NORRIS-Hollingpriest's Charity, £200 in trust, for a Charity School e in & gº 10 0 0
Tithe Barne Charity School is supported by rents from two cottages” & g & º g 11 1 9
LEVENSHULME—The old School having been taken down, and the materials sold for £150, it was resolved to erect
another by subscription, of which the expenses were estimated at £340.
NEWTON.—School, and Purnall's Charity, £200 in trust, at 4% per cent for the instructions of 15 boys and girls of the
9 0 0
township g * * g * * * te g e * * * *
Thomas Todd bequeathed £200 for a Sunday School, to be suspended when fewer than 200 children should
attend, and the income paid to the Manchester Infirmary.
Chetham's Charity, £20, at 5 per cent interest, for the benefit of poor children of Moston and Newton * 1 0 0
Guillam's Charity, £20 to the poor, to be laid out in a rent-charge of £1 : 4s, per annum, of which 12s. Only
appear to be paid on account of the poor of Newton, and improperly carried to the general account of
the overseers . * e † * & & g & & & 0 12 0
Amongst the more modern charities are the MANCHESTER SCHOOL for the education of the DEAF and
DUMB, opened on the 9th of February 1825. In 1836, a public subscription for a new building, with the
proceeds of a bazaar and ball, realised £3848; and a fine edifice was erected at Old Trafford, consisting—One
wing of the Deaf and Dumb School, which (with land) cost about £11,000, and the other of Henshaw's Blind
* In spite of the “wood-work and the chains,” many of these works 8 From 1818 up to 1825, the schoolmaster had occupied one of
have disappeared ; but there still remains a good collection of old the cottages and garden without accounting for any rent ; “and
divinity in the closet of Trinity Chapel, unchained and unstolen. for several years he has not had a single scholar.” The inhabitants
* The income now (1867) amounts to about £75 per annum, and were endeavouring to effect a reform in the management of this
is distributed in coals, shoes, and shirts, to old men, on or about St. property in 1825.-Commissioners' 16th Report.
Thomas's Day, December 21. -
#umbret of Šalfort—ſianchester parish. 305
Asylum, built by subscription at about the same cost ; with a central chapel, available to the inmates of both
institutions. The deaf and dumb pupils are boarded, educated, and provided with every necessary domestic
comfort, some gratuitously, and others by an annual payment. They are taught to speak, read, write, and
cipher, and made acquainted with important truths of revelation, and consequently rescued from a state of
mental and moral darkness. The blind people are taught to read, etc., and those of aptitude learn vocal
music, the organ, etc., while all learn some useful handicraft, as basket-making,
The Societies in Manchester and Salford which have for their object the dissemination of religious knowledge are —The
Auxiliary to the British and Foreign Bible Society, established in 1810; and the Ladies' Branch Bible Society, established in 1817,
is auxiliary to it. The East Lancashire Auxiliary Missionary Society, a branch of the London Missionary Society, was established
here in 1795; the Church Missionary Association, called “the Manchester and East Lancashire Association,” was established in
1815; and the Methodist Auxiliary Missionary Society in 1815. Of more recent establishment is the Society for the propagation of
the gospel in foreign parts. The Auxiliary Society, in aid of the London Society for promoting Christianity among the Jews, was
established in 1812. The Society for promoting Christian Knowledge was instituted in August 1814, and is auxiliary to the
London Society, established in 1699. Religious Tract Societies, auxiliary to the London Religious Tract Society, have existed in
Manchester nearly from the formation of the parent institution ; the Church of England Tract Society was established in 1812,
and the Wesleyan Tract Society was established in September 1822. The objects of these valuable institutions are happily so well
understood as to supersede the necessity of any detailed description. Of other societies more or less connected with the Established
Church may be named, the Church Pastoral Aid Society, the National Association for Freedom of Worship, the Diocesan Church-
building Society, the Manchester Church Defence Association, the Additional Curates Society, etc.
- The Manchester and Salford Provident Society is a modern and most useful institution in relieving the really poor and in
detecting impostors. The other societies, having similar objects, are more numerous than varied ; and the Sick Clubs, which are
the most humble, are amongst the most important in their influence on the community. The Manchester Commercial Clerks’
Society, established in 1802, is a provident institution, consisting principally of persons in trade, and those employed as clerks or
principal servants, who, by the payment of an entrance-sum, varying according to the age of the members, from three to five
guineas, and an annual payment of one guinea, with the aid of the honorary contributions, make a provision for themselves in
sickness and old age, as well as for their widows and children.
The co-operative societies of Manchester were organised in 1859, for the purpose of providing the means of moral and
intellectual growth, as well as social improvement. With a capital of £150 and only 128 members, two small shops were
opened, one in Hulme and one in Ancoats; and the receipts of the first year were £2722. The trade has steadily increased, except
during the two severest years of the cotton famine. In the year ending September 1866 there were 4000 members, a capital of
£26,734, and the sales of the year reached to £86,000. There were open sixteen stores for groceries and provisions, two for drapery,
and three butcher's shops—in all twenty-one. The total sales from the commencement reached £412,625, yielding a profit of
£30,434, of which £3556 was paid for interest on capital, £24,384 on dividends to members and bonuses on purchases to non-
members, £334 for charitable purposes, and £2160 reduction of fixed stock. If the net profits were divided on capital only, they
would be equal to 42 per cent ; but interest is paid on all share or loan capital at the rate of 5 per cent, and the net profits are
divided amongst members according to the proportion of purchases, and to non-members a bonus of 10d. in £1 on purchases.
There are two distributive societies in Manchester, the Manchester and Salford “Equitable” Co-operative Society (Limited), and the
Manchester and Salford “Industrial” Co-operative Society (Limited). The former has its central grocery and provision store in Down-
ing Street, Ardwick, in a handsome building erected for the purpose, in the upper floors of which are the central office and board room,
library and reading-room, and the co-operative hall, where monthly business-meetings, tea-parties, concerts, etc. are given. A bakery
is in the basement. It has ten branch stores for groceries, provisions, etc., in different quarters of the city and suburbs. Drapery,
millinery, boots and shoes, brushes, etc. are kept at the central store. Tailoring work is done and hats sold at the working tailors'
association, 83 Bridge Street. In June 1867 the capital of the society was £20,000, and the shareholders 2940. The dividend to
members on the quarter's purchases was 1s. 6d. in the £1. During the year ended June 1867 the receipts from sales were £63,195, an
increase of £13,492 over the preceding year. This society has established a free library and free reading-rooms, which are well attended.
The “Industrial” Society has its central grocery and provision stores in Upper Medlock Street, Hulme, and there are seven branch
stores, at two of which drapery, and at three butcher's meat can be bought. In addition to the distributive societies of Manchester,
there are societies of industrial tailors and hatters, Bridge Street, Manchester; also a manufacturing company working upwards of
400 power-looms. In each of these societies, after paying interest at 5 per cent on capital, the profits are divided equally between
capital and labour. The North of England Co-operative Wholesale Society has also its head-quarters in Manchester. This society
is organised on the federal principle, and is a Society of societies. Established for the purpose of Saving the profits of the middlemen,
by purchasing the goods required in the first markets, its operations have been eminently successful ; and it is now doing a business
at the rate of £300,000 per annum. Co-operative societies have a fortnightly organ, the Co-operator (16 pages 8vo, one penny);
that of the 15th August 1867 being No. 118. It is edited in Manchester and printed at Dewsbury. *
At the head of the institutions for healing the sick, both in importance and seniority, stands the Manchester General Infirmary.
This establishment was commenced in the year 1752, and has ever since been progressively enlarging its sphere of usefulness. The
infirmary was built in 1755, a house on Shude Hill having been used in the meantime. In ten years afterwards, the buildings
forming the Lunatic Hospital and Asylum, adjoining the infirmary, were erected, but placed upon a separate establishment. In
1781, the medical officers of the infirmary began to visit the patients at their dwellings, and in 1792 the dispensary was added.
Many munificent benefactions have been presented to the General Infirmary, but that which far exceeds any other is the donation
of £10,000 presented by Dauntesey Hulme, esq., in the year 1824 (subject to a life annuity), being the third benefaction from the
same gentleman. The infirmary was greatly enlarged and improved in 1832-3; and the buildings previously appropriated to the
Lunatic Asylum now enlarge the accommodation of the infirmary, and a new site was found for the Royal Lunatic Hospital and
Asylum at Cheadle, four miles from Manchester. Till 1830, the infirmary had the name of the Manchester General Infirmary; but in
that year, Sir Robert Peel, secretary of state for the home department, on the application of the earl of Stamford and Warrington,
procured for this institution the patronage of the king, as a peculiar mark of the royal favour, and since that time it has assumed
the name of the Manchester Royal Infirmary. In 1867, the authorities advertised for a healthy site a few miles from town, on
which to erect a convalescent hospital. -
The Manchester and Salford Lying-in-Hospital was founded by Charles White, F.R.S., his son Dr. White, and Messrs.
Edward and Richard Hull. The first meeting, held 6th May 1790, resolved to institute an hospital, and patients were attended at
their own homes till a house was taken near Salford bridge, and in May 1795 the Bath. Inn, near the New Bailey Prison and on
the bank of the Irwell, was purchased for £1800, and fitted up as the hospital. A Ladies' Society, auxiliary to the institution,
provided bed-linen for the month to those destitute of it, and a suit of linen for the infant. On the erection of the new hospital in
Quay Street in 1856, the name of this institution was changed to St. Mary's Hospital.
The Humane Society for the hundred of Salford, was originally established under the patronage, and principally by the public-
spirited exertions, of the late Thomas Butterworth Bayley, esq., chairman of the Salford quarter-sessions.
An institution for the cure of Diseases of the Eye was established in King Street in 1815, removed to 35 Falkner Street in 1822,
and is now placed in St. John Street. This society, with very slender means, dispenses a large amount of benefit.
2 R
306 (The #istory of 3Lancashire.
The Lock Hospital, Deansgate, Knott Mill, for the relief of the most miserable class of women, whom poverty and
disease have rendered outcasts, was established on the 1st of March 1819. The Female Penitentiary, in Embden Place, Greenheys,
was opened in 1822, as a temporary asylum for such women as, having deviated from the paths of virtue, are desirous to abandon
their vicious courses, and to become qualified, by virtue and industry, for reputable situations.
Amongst other medical institutions having benevolent objects may be named—the Northern Counties Royal Albert Asylum,
at Lancaster, for idiots and imbeciles; the Southport Convalescent Hospital and Sea-bathing Infirmary; the Manchester Institu-
tion for Diseases of the Ear, Oxford Street; the General Hospital and Dispensary for Children, Bridge Street; the Clinical Hospital
and Dispensary for Children, 8 Stevenson Square, and a new one (opened May 1867) in Park Place, York Street, Cheetham ; the
Ardwick and Ancoats Dispensary; the Salford and Pendleton Hospital and Dispensary; and the Chorlton-on-Medlock Dispensary;
the Hospital for Consumption and Skin-diseases; the Homoeopathic Hospital and Dispensary, Bloom Street; etc.
The Strangers' Friend Society is an institution formed in the year 1791, at the instance, and with the assistance, of the late
Rev. Dr. Adam Clarke. Objects are sought out by the committee, and their wants administered to, after due investigation. This
is a sectarian society, in the good sense of the term; its patrons and supporters are chiefly Methodists, but Methodists alone are
excluded from its benefits; and persons of every other denomination, or of no denomination whatever, are relieved, by no other
standard than the measure of their distress, and the capability of the funds. The Samaritan Society, established in 1824, is an
institution of a similar nature, whose meetings are held weekly, on the Friday evening, in the vestry of the Methodist chapel in
Gravel Lane. Among other benevolent societies, of more modern origin, may be named the Discharged Prisoners' Aid Society, the
Distressed Foreigners' Society, the National Society for promoting the Education of the Poor, the Nurse-training Institution, the
Night Asylum, the Manchester Association for the Employment of Women, etc.
There are several societies for supplying poor persons with articles of clothing gratuitously, the most considerable of which are
the Manchester and Salford Church Clothing Society, and the Salford Dorcas Society, instituted in January 1822, by all of which
much good is done.
+. Public Baths and Wash-houses Company, and some public spirited individuals, have erected establishments in various
parts of Manchester and Salford. One in Millers Street, erected in 1856; another in 1850 at Miles Platting; a third in Greengate,
Salford, in 1856; a fourth at Mayfield, London Road; and a fifth in 1860, in the Stretford Road, Hulme. A swimming-school
(with spacious bath) has been established (1867) in Barrack Street, Chester Road, Hulme, as a private speculation.
Among other local institutions, with various objects, may be mentioned the United Kingdom Alliance, 41 John Dalton Street,
for the promotion of total abstinence from intoxicating liquors, having for its organ a weekly newspaper entitled the Alliance News :
the association for the Preservation of Ancient Public Footpaths has its offices in Essex Street, King Street; the Manchester and
Salford Sanitary Association, offices 83 Pall Mall, King Street; the Manchester and Liverpool Agricultural Society; the Licensed
Victuallers' Association, 8 Hanging Ditch; etc.
Of musical and other societies for amusement and recreation, are the Gentlemen's Concerts, Concert Hall, Peter Street; Mr.
Charles Hallé's orchestral and choral concerts, Free Trade Hall; the Gentlemen's Glee Club, Clarence Hotel; the Manchester
Madrigal Society, 6 John Dalton Street; the St. Cecilia Society, Memorial Hall, Albert Square; the Tonic Sol-Fa Association ;
etc. arious entertainments, musical, dramatic, etc., are given in the Free Trade Hall. The Manchester Shaksperean Society
meets monthly at the Union Chambers, Dickinson Street. Amongst the societies for active exercises and recreation, by out-door
games and sports, are the Manchester Athletic or Gymnastic Club, that of the Manchester Athenæum, also various bowling-clubs,
and the Manchester Golf Club. This last was instituted about 1815, by William Mitchell, esq. of Holt Town, its ground, by the
permission of the owners, being Kersal Moor; near which it possesses a golf-house erected for the purpose in 1820, with dining-
room, cellar, lavatories, stores for the golf-implements, etc. The members wear a scarlet coat with uniform button, and play weekly
on Friday. Formerly the ball used for golf was of leather stuffed with feathers, but this club first introduced a ball of gutta-percha,
which proved so superior that it has found general acceptance. The club has records of its members, proceedings, etc., dating back
to an early period after its formation. In and around Manchester are many cricket-clubs, of which the most celebrated are the
Manchester and the Broughton Clubs. Each has its own ground, and during the season matches are played between the different
clubs, and with “the crack elevens” of England.
ORDs ALL Rock, near Manchester, by C. Calvert. From a Pen-drawing made on the spot, Aug. 1780,
by Thomas Barritt, in his Ancient Remains—Chetham's Library.

39tumbrell of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 43arish. 307
Early Inquisition relating to Manchester—Punishments—Origin of Manchester Manufactures—Visit of Henry VII, to
Manchester—Early Waterworks—Leland's Description of Manchester in 1538—Manchester at the Reformation
—Life of John Bradford the Martyr—Ecclesiastical Commission—Dean Nowell—The Bishop of Chester's Resi-
dence fixed in Manchester—Aldport Lodge, etc.—Sufferings of the Catholic Recusants—Relaxations of the Rigours
against them—Treatment of Alehouse-keepers and Bakers—Parks in Salford Hundred—Description of Man-
chester by Camden in Queen Elizabeth's Reign—Privilege of choosing the Boroughreeve—Sale of the Manor of
Manchester—Removal of the Bishop—Population—State of Society—First Printing-press in Manchester—
t Panic—Renewed Ecclesiastical Commission—The Astrologers and Dr. Dee—Eruption of Hough Moss—Inflam-
matory Handbill–Breaking out of the Civil Wars—Siege of Manchester—Summons of the Earl of Newcastle—
Manchester's Answer—League and Covenant—The Plague in Manchester—Presbyterical Classis—Representa-
tion of Manchester during the Commonwealth—Rigorous Treatment of the Presbyterian Ministers—Union
between the Presbyterians and the Independents—Restoration of Charles II. celebrated at Manchester—Special
Assize at Manchester—Treatment of the Nonconformists—Dr. Kuerden's Description of Manchester in the Reign
of Charles II-Manners of the People of Manchester at the end of the Seventeenth Century—Unsuccessful
attempt to impose a Duty on the Sale of Merchandise at Manchester—A.D. 1359–1693.
sºong after the period when the original survey of Manchester was taken, a dispute arose
º º/ H between Henry, the first duke of Lancaster, and Roger de la Warre, in consequence of
% º which the inhabitants of the town and manor of Manchester were amerced by the bailiffs
º * § of the duke in damages, to the prejudice of the lord of Manchester. For the
Š sº, settlement of the matter at issue, the duke caused an inquisition to be taken at Preston,
in 1359,
“Before Thomas de Seton, and others, his justices, by the oaths of John Ratcliffe, Oates Halsall, Roger de Bradshagh, Henry,
son of Simon de Bickerstath, Robert de Trafford, Adam de Hopwood, Roger de Barlow, John del Hoult, Robert de Hulme, John de
Chetham, Thomas de Strangewayes, and John de Scholefield, who brought in Vppon their oathes, that the said Roger and his
ancestors, time out of mind, held the towne of Manchester, not as a borough, but as a market-towne, enjoying some privileges, as
infangtheife, breaches of the peace, assize of bread and beer, waif and stray; punishment of butchers, tanners, and retailers; gallows,
pillory, and tumbrel; a fair, and free warren.” +
Where the gallows stood in Manchester is not known. That for the hundred was fixed at a little
distance from the town of Salford, in a field still called the Gallows Field, on the banks of the Irwell, leading
from Boathouse lane towards the Lock, and opposite to the Great Hulme Meadow. The pillory, or neck-stocks,
stood in the Market-place, in Manchester, till 1812, when it was removed, along with the common stocks,
which stood beneath it. The tumbrel was at once the cart and the cuck-stool, which is described by Our
Saxon ancestors as “a chair in which scolding women were plunged into water.” In Domesday it is called
Cathedra Stercoris (the chair of scolds), and was anciently used for the punishment of brewers and bakers who
transgressed the laws. “Some,” says Blount, “think it is a corruption from ducking-stool, others from choak-
ing-stool, because women plunged in water by this means were commonly Suffocated.” In Saxon times, the
fosse, over which the correctional-stool was suspended, was used for the ordeal of plunging. The Manchester
stool, says Whitaker, “remained within these few years (1775) an open-bottomed chair of wood, placed upon
the end of a long pole (balanced upon a pivot), and suspended over the large collection of water called Pool
House, and Pool Fold;" it was afterwards suspended over the water of Daub Holes (the Infirmary pond), and
was used to punish common scolds and common prostitutes.” It has now disappeared. Many of the baronial
privileges claimed and exercised at this period were of an extraordinary kind. They are briefly summed
up in the ancient collection of laws called the Regia Majestas Scotiarum, wherein it is stated that criminal pleas
belonged to those barons who held their court, with sac and soc, furca et fossa (gallows and pit), toll and
theme, infangthief and outfangthief—(Lib. I. cap. 4 sect. 2.) On the words “furca et fossa,” Sir Henry
Spelman remarks that they express the right of hanging male, and drowning female criminals; and adduces
* “Tho. West, knight, Lord la Warre, claims to have for
himself the will of Mamecestre as a free borough and market-town,
and the amending of the assise of bread and ale, and penalties on
merchandise against the assise, tolls as well on every day of the week
as on the market-day, and to hold in the town and within his manor,
with the members and hamlets of the same manor, to wit in the
vills of Ashton in Salfordshire, Withington, Heton Norreys, Barton
near Eccles, Heton with Hallewell, Pilkington, and in their
hamlets, the liberties of infangetheof, breach of peace, amending
the assise of bread and ale, and waif and stray ; and also the punish-
ing of butchers, tanners, and retailers; gallows, pillory, and tumbrel;
one fair for three days on the eve, day and morrow of St. Matthew,
and free warren.”—Kuerden's 4to MS, fo. 52.
* This pool continued open till about the middle of the 17th
century.










308 - (The #istorm of lancashire.
an instance in which the latter punishment was used in the reign of Richard II. At the time when the
inquisition to determine the rights and privileges of Manchester was held, the whole rental of the lord of the
manor, derived from his possessions within the hundred of Salford, amounted to £137 : 19: 6
Little progress had been made in manufactures and commerce in Lancashire before the reign of Edward
III. ; but under the fostering hand of that monarch and his queen the woollen trade took root in Man-
chester, and spread along the district rising over the Yorkshire hills to the west, and the mountainous region
of Rossendale and Pendle to the north. The increasing opulence of the county, from this cause, soon pointed
it out as a fit scene for religious contributions; and in 1465, James, abbot of Abingdon, the nuncio and
commissary-general of Sextus IV., repaired to Manchester to levy supplies for the maintenance of the
Christian cause against the Turks; in return for which he granted plenary indulgences, as if on a day of
jubilee the benefactors had visited Rome in person.” -
After the battle of Stamford, in 1469, the duke of Clarence and the earl of Warwick “heard that the
king was coming to them-ward: incontinently] they departed and went to Manchester in Lancashire, hoping
to have had help and succour of the Lord Stanley, but in conclusion there they had little favour, as it was
informed the king, and so men say they went westward, and some deem to London.”—(Sir John Fenn's Paston
Letters, vol. ii. p. 38.) A still more distinguished guest honoured Manchester with his presence soon after this
time. In the royal progress made by Henry VII. on his return from Lathom House, after his visit to his
mother, the venerable Countess of Richmond and Derby, the king passed through Manchester, then one of
the most important towns in the northern part of his dominions; but it does not appear that he remained
here more than one day—namely the 5th of August 1495.”
There being a natural spring of water near the top of King Street, and in and near the present Fountain
Street, which thence took its name, which spring was long sufficient to supply wholesome water to all the
town, it was conducted in pipes down Market Stid Lane [Market Street] to the Market Stid [Victoria Street],
where a conduit with taps was erected, apparently by the direction and at the cost of Isabel, daughter and
heiress of Richard, son of Roger Bexwicke, and then widow of [7] Robert Becke. The conduit was probably
erected about 1562, on the site of the premises now No. 4 Victoria Street, on making excavations for which,
some years ago, several of the old pipes were found. Mrs. Isabel Becke also endowed this conduit, leaving
some houses in St. Mary's Gate to trustees, for the perpetual upholding of the conduit. But it would seem
that all rents or profits from this source were lost so early as 1570, at which period and thenceforward the
conduit was maintained and repaired by “public benevolence.” It ceased to supply the town about 1775.
A few years after this time Leland the antiquary visited Manchester (in 1538), on his itinerary tour,
undertaken by a commission from his royal master, Henry VIII., and the following is his description of the
approach from the west, and of the town itself, at that time —
“I rode over Mersey water,” says he, “by a great bridge of Tymbre caullid Crosford Bridge. The water of Mersey to
the veri maine se departith Chestreshire and Lancastreshire. So about a iii miles to Manchestre, in the wich way first I left Syr
Alexandre Radcliffe's Parkehouse, on the right Hond. But er I saw that I passed over Corne Brooke, and after I touchid withyn
a good mile of Manchestre, by Mr. Traftford's park and place. And after, on the left Hond, I saw Mr. Prestwike's Place on the
left Hond over Irwel, whereby the Lord of Darby hath a place, and a parke, caullid Alparte Parke. Here about I passid over
Medlock river, and so within lesse than a mile to Manchestre. MANCHESTRE on the South side of the Irwel river stondith in
Salfordshire, and is the fairest, best builded, quickhest, and most populous tounne of al Lancastreshire, yet is in hit but one
paroch chirch, but is a college and almost thoroughowt doble ilyed ea quadrato lapide durissimo,” whereof a goodly quarre is harde
by the towne. Ther be divers stone bridges in the toune, but the best of III arches is over Irwel. This bridge dividith Manchestre
from Salford, the wich is a large suburb to Manchestre. On this bridg is a praty litle chapel. The next is the bridg that is over
the Hirk river, on the which the fair buildid college standith as in the veri point of the mouth of hit. For hard thereby it rennith
into Wyver [Irwell]. On Hirk river are divers faire milles that serve the toume. In the toume be II fair market placys. And
almost II flyte shottes withowt the toune beneth on the same syde of Irwel yet be seene the dikes and foundations of Old Man
Castelyn a ground now inclosed. The stones of the ruines of this castel wer translated toward making of bridgges for the toune.
It is not long season sins the chirch of Manchestre was collegiated. The toune of Manchestre standith on a hard rokke of stone,
els Irwel, as wel apperith in the West Ripe, had been noiful to the toume. Irwel is not navigable but in some places, for vadys
and rokkes.”
Although great agitation prevailed at the time of the Reformation in Lancashire, one of the seats of the
Lollards, the letters of Henry VIII. to Sir Roger Bradshawe and Sir Thomas Langton, knights, exhibit the
first public indication of the part taken by the gentry in the neighbourhood of Manchester in favour of the
Protestant cause. In the next reign, Manchester College, which had escaped the dissolution of the larger
and the smaller monastic institutions, was dissolved (1547); but it was refounded, as we have seen, in the
first year of Queen Mary (1553-4). In this reign, John Rogers, a Lancashire man, was consigned to the stake
for his adherence to the reformed faith. This venerable and learned divine was followed soon after to
Smithfield by his fellow-martyr, John Bradford, a native of Manchester, whose life and death are strikingly
illustrative of the times in which he lived, and of the state of the public mind in this county, and in other
parts of the kingdom, at that gloomy period of British history. The controversy on the truth of the conflicting
1 Harl. MSS. codex 2112. * Leland appears to have been a better antiquary than a minera-
2 Hollinworth, fol, 11. * See the Royal Progress, p. 146. logist; the church is built of the red sandstone common to this
* See Mr. Harland's Court-Leet Records of Manchester, vols. 63 neighbourhood, which is anything but durissimus.
and 65 of the Chetham Society's series. -
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arigij, 309
faiths was carried on in Manchester with great zeal and talent, between Mr. Bradford and Dr. Pendleton, a
native of this county, and “an anomalist in the practices of religion,” having recanted from the errors of
popery, and then recanted his recantation. Mr. Bradford, in the reign of King Edward VI., came into
Lancashire, and preached with signal success in Manchester, Eccles, Prestwich, Middleton, Radcliffe, Ashton,
Stockport, Bolton, Bury, Wigan, Liverpool, and Chester: while preaching in Manchester, he is reported,
according to Hollinworth, to have told the people that because they did not readily embrace the word of God,
the mass should be said again in the Collegiate Church, and the play of Robin Hood enacted there, which,
adds our authority, “accordingly came to pass in Queen Mary's reign.”
JOHN BRADFORD, M.A. prebendary of St. Paul's and chaplain to King Edward VI., was the son of a clergyman, and
born of a respectable family in Manchester, in the early part of the reign of Henry VIII. He received a liberal education in
the free grammar-school of his native town, founded by Bishop Oldham, and stood in high estimation for his proficiency in the
Latin language, and his extensive knowledge of arithmetic ; and these qualifications recommended him to the patronage of Sir
John Harrington, treasurer and paymaster to the English forces, and superintendent of the military fortifications in France, who
gave him the appointment of secretary, and whose entire confidence for several years Bradford uninterruptedly enjoyed. In 1544,
during King Henry's march against the French, and subsequently at the conquest of Boulogne, he appears to have been a deputy-
treasurer; and it was during this period that a circumstance occurred, which induced him to change his military for a religious
course of life. Overcharging an article in his accounts, by which his majesty was a considerable loser, he became melancholy and
restless; and accidentally hearing a sermon of Bishop Latimer's on Restitution, during one of his low-spirited intervals, he formed
a resolution never to rest satisfied until he had made ample amends; and finally settled himself in a situation out of the reach of
future temptation, and all possible worldly ensnarements. After quitting his employ in the army, he had chambers in the Inner
Temple, and studied the common law; but a deeply-rooted religious feeling having taken entire possession of his mind, he paid
little attention to that profession, but employed himself more immediately in contemplating the humiliation, contrition, and deep
repentance, which possessed his heart for his late misconduct. In one of his letters to his friend, Mr. Travis, minister of Blackley,
near Manchester, he says—
“Since my coming to London I was with Master Latimer, whose counsel is as you shall hear, which I purpose, by God’s grace, to
obey. He willed me, as I have done, to write to my master [Sir John Harrington], who is in the country, and to show him that, if
within a certain time, which I have appointed fourteen days, he do not go about to make restitution, I will submit myself to my lord-
protector and the king's majesty's council, to confess the fault, and ask pardon. This life is uncertain and frail, and when time is, it
must not.be deferred ; and what should it profit me to win the whole world, and lose my own soul ?”
Harrington, however, made many difficulties and excuses, until Bradford threatened a full confession to the lord-protector,
which measure at last compelled Sir John to give such a bill for the repayment of the money under his hand and seal as Latimer
approved of. In August 1548 Bradford removed from London to Cambridge, changed his study and profession, soon took his
degree of Master of Arts, and was invited by Dr. Ridley, bishop of Rochester, and Master of Pembroke Hall, to become Fellow of
that house. In a letter to Travis dated in 1549, he says—
“I am now a Fellow of Pembroke Hall; for the which, neither I nor any other for me, did ever make any suit. Yea, there was a
contention between the master of Catherine Hall” and the bishop of Rochester,” who is master of Pembroke Hall, whether should have
me : Fit hoc tibi dictum. Thus you may see the Lord’s carefulness of me. My Fellowship is worth seven pounds a-year; for, I have
allowed me eighteenpence a-week, and as good as thirty-three shillings and fourpence a-year; besides my chamber, launder, barber, etc.,
and I am bound to nothing, but once or twice a-year to keep a problem.”
Mr. Bradford rapidly advanced in learning and piety; yet his modesty and diffidence were so great, that when Dr. Martin
Bucer earnestly exhorted him to reserve his talents no longer in private, but to become a public minister, he still pleaded his
inability and conscious weakness. Such exhortations, however, at last gave him courage, and had an effect in stimulating him to
proceed in his preparation for what he yet considered himself unworthy to undertake. His conscience having now become clear and
disburdened, he pursued his studies with such vigorous and uninterrupted application, and became so eminent, that Bishop Ridley,
who had been translated to the see of London, sent for him to the metropolis, gave him deacon's orders, and appointed him one of
his chaplains. The bishop, in a letter to Sir John Cheke, one of the privy council, writes—
“I have got the good-will and grant, to be with me, of three preachers, men of good learninge, and, as I am persuaded, of excellent
virtue, which are able, both with life and learning, to set forthe God’s word in London, and in the whole diocese of the same, where is
most neede in all parts of Englande. The men's names be these—Mr. Grindall,” whom you know to be a man of virtue and learning;
Mr. Bradforde, a man by whom, as I am assuredly informed, God hath and doth work wonders, in setting forth his worde,” etc.
He was now made prebendary of St. Paul's Cathedral, and took up his residence with Ridley in London, where he so constantly
laboured to engraft the true principles of religion in the hearts and minds of the people, to reform the vicious, reclaim the perverted,
and fix the wavering, that no preacher of his time was better attended, or more famed for his doctrine or example. He became so
eminent by his sermons in London and Lancashire, that in 1552 he was sworn One of the king's chaplains; yet his duty before the
court was not infringed upon by any change of language, for he kept that frank and familiar address which he had been accustomed
to use elsewhere. On the accession of Mary, the national religion gave way to popery, yet Bradford kept firm, and preached
diligently the reformed doctrine, until he was deprived of his office by the privy council, and principally by the ecclesiastics who
were members of it. On the 16th of August 1553, he was summoned to the Tower by the bishops, then assembled in presence of
the queen, and charged with sedition, in rescuing a popish priest, one Gilbert Bourne, afterwards bishop of Bath, from the fury of
the mob at Paul's Cross, and in preaching heresy. Whatever explanations he could allege in his defence availed him not, and he
was committed a close prisoner, and deprived of society and the means of correspondence. While in the Tower, however, he
contrived, by secret assistance, to write several pious discourses and exhortations, which were suspected to have reclaimed some who
had revolted to popery, and to have confirmed many who were settled in the Protestant faith. But nothing more irritated his
adversaries than the many letters he secretly wrote to his friends and the citizens of London, to the university and town of
Cambridge, the towns of Walden and Manchester, and to many noble and learned persons, as well as to his own relatives. ... Having
been ordered to the king's bench' in Southwark, he was led to his first examination on the 22d of January 1554, before Gardiner,
bishop of Winchester and lord chancellor, Bonner, bishop of London, and several others in the commission named for that purpose.
The chancellor informed him he had been imprisoned justly for his behaviour at Paul's Cross, on the 13th of August last, for his
false preaching, and for his arrogance in taking upon himself to preach without authority. “But now,” said he, “the time of
mercy is come ; therefore the queen, by us, hath sent for you, to give you the same, if you will with us return ; if you will do as
we have done, you shall find as we have found.” To which Bradford obediently answered, “My lords, I confess that I have been
long imprisoned and unjustly, for that I did nothing seditiously, falsely, or arrogantly, in word or fact, by preaching or otherwise,
1 Hollinworth, fol. 18. * Dr. Sandys, afterwards archbishop of York. * Dr. Ridley.
* D.D., and afterwards archbishop of York.
3 || 0 (The #istory of £ancašijire.
but sought peace as an obedient and faithful subject, both in attempting to save the present bishop of Bath, then Master Bourne,
the preacher at the Cross, and in preaching for quietness accordingly.” Here the chancellor cut him short, and told him he spoke
falsely. “The fact was seditious,” said he, “as you, my lord of London, can bear witness.” “You Say true,” answered the
bishop of London; “I saw him with mine own eyes, when he took upon him to rule and lead the people malapertly ; thereby
declaring that he was the author of sedition.” Bradford answered, with wonderful patience, that notwithstanding the bishop's
Seeing and Saying, what he had told was truth, which one day God Almighty would reveal; yet, in the meantime, because he could
not be believed, he was ready to suffer, as now, by what he had said, so whatsoever God should license him to do. “I know,”
said the chancellor, “thou hast a glorious tongue, and godly shows thou makest, but all are lies that thou doest. I have not
forgotten how stubborn thou wert before us in the Tower, to which thou wast committed concerning religion. I have not
forgotten thy behaviour and talk; wherefore worthily thou hast been kept in prison, as one that would have done more hurt than
I will speak of.” “My lord,” said Bradford, “I stand as before you, so before God, as one day we shall all stand before him :
truth will then be truth ; though you will not now so take it; yet I dare say my lord of Bath will witness with me that I sought
his safeguard with the peril of my own life.” “That's not true,” quoth Bonner, “for I saw thee take upon thee too much.”
“No,” said Bradford; “I took nothing upon me undesired, and that of Master Bourne himself, as if he were here, I dare say he
would affirm ; for he desired me both to help him to pacify the people, and not to leave him till he was in safety; and as for my
behaviour in the Tower, if I did or said anything that did not beseem me, and your lordships would inform me, I would
speedily make you answer.” “Well,” said the chancellor, “to leave this matter; how sayest thou now, wilt thou return
again, and do as we have done, and thou shalt receive the queen's mercy and pardon º’ “My lord,” said Bradford,
“I desire mercy with God's mercy, but mercy with God's wrath God keep me from ; though, I thank God, my conscience
does not accuse me of doing or speaking anything here that should need mercy or pardon; for all that I did or spake was
agreeable to God’s laws, and those of the realm at that present ; and did make much quietness.” “Well,” replied the chancellor,
“if thou wilt make this babbling, rolling in thy eloquence, being altogether ignorant and vainglorious, and wilt not receive
mercy offered thee; know, for truth, that the queen is minded to make a purgation of all such as thou art.” “The Lord knows,”
replied Bradford, “before whom I stand, as well as before you, what vainglory I have sought his mercy I desire, and also
would be glad of the queen's favour, to live, as a subject, without clog of conscience; but otherwise the Lord's mercy is to me better
than life. And I know to whom I have committed my life, even to his hands which will keep it, so that no man may take it away
before it be his pleasure. There are twelve hours in the day, and as long as they last, so long shall no man have power thereon :
therefore, his good will be done; life, in his displeasure, is worse than death ; and death, in his favour, is true life.” “I know,”
said the chancellor, “that we should have glorious talk enough from thee; be sure therefore, that as thou hast deceived the people
with false and devilish doctrine, so shalt thou receive.” “I have not deceived the people,” said Bradford, “nor taught any other
doctrine than by God's grace I am ready, and hope shall be ready, to confirm with my life; and as for devilishness and falseness
in the doctrine, I would be sorry you could so prove it.” “Why,” said the bishop of Durham,” “what do you say to the admini-
stration of the communion, as you now know it is ?” Here Bradford replied to them, “I have been six times sworn, in no case to
consent to the practising of any jurisdiction, or any authority on the bishop of Rome's behalf within this realm of England;
therefore I humbly pray your honours to tell me whether you ask me this question by his authority or not ? If you do, I dare not,
may not, answer you anything in his authority you shall demand of me, except I would be forsworn, which God forbid.” “Hast
thou been six times sworn ?” said Secretary Bourne. “What offices hast thou borne?” “I was thrice sworn in Cambridge; when
I was admitted Master of Arts, when I was admitted Fellow in Pembroke Hall, and when I was there the visitors also came thither
and Swore the University ; again, I was sworn when I entered into the ministry, when I had a prebend given me, and when I was
sworn to serve the king, a little before his death.” “Tush,” said the chancellor, “Herod’s oaths, a man should make no con-
science at.” Bradford replied, “My lord, these oaths were no Herod’s oaths, no unlawful oaths, but oaths according to God's
word, as you yourself have well affirmed in your book, De vera obedientić.” Here another of the council, presumed to be the
bishop of Rochester,” said, “I never knew wherefore this man was in prison till now, but I see well it would not have been good
that he had been abroad : whatsoever was the cause he was laid in prison I know not, but I now well see that not without cause
he was, and is, to be kept in prison.” “Yes,” said Secretary Bourne, “it was reported this present parliament time, by the earl
of Derby,” that he has done more hurt by letters, and exhorting those that have come to him, in religion, than ever he did when
he was abroad by preaching. In his letters he curseth all that teach false doctrine, for so he calls that which is not according to
what he taught ; and most earnestly exhorteth them to whom he writes to continue still in that they have received from him, and
such like as he is.” All which words others of the council affirmed ; upon which the secretary added, “How say you, sirrah, have
you not thus seditiously written and exhorted the people º’’ ‘‘I have,” said Bradford, “neither written nor spoken anything
Seditiously; and I thank God I have not admitted any seditious cogitation, nor I trust ever shall.” “Yea, but thou hast written
letters,” quoth Bourne. “Why speakest thou not,” said the chancellor; “hast thou not written as he saith?’” “That,” replied
Bradford, “which I have written I have written.” “Lord God,” quoth Sir Richard Southwell, “what an arrogant and stubborn
fellow is this, that thus stoutly and dallyingly behaves himself before the queen's council 1" “My lords and masters,” said
Bradford, “the Lord God which is, and will judge us all, knoweth that as I am certain Istand now before his Majesty, so with
reverence in his sight I stand before you, unto yours; and accordingly in words and gesture I desire to behave myself. If you
otherwise take it, I doubt not God in his time will reveal it. In the mean season I shall suffer with all due obedience your sayings,
and deeds too, I hope.” “These be gay, glorious words,” quoth the chancellor, “of reverence, reverence—but as in all other
things, so herein thou dost nothing but lie.” “Well,” said Bradford, “I would God, the author of truth and abhorrer of lies,
would pull my tongue out of my head before you all, and show a terrible judgment on me presently, if I have purposed or do
purpose to lie before you, whatsoever you shall ask me.” “Why then,” said the chancellor, “dost thou not answer? Hast thou
written such letters as here is objected against thee!” “As I said, my lord,” quoth Bradford, “that which I have written I have
written. I stand now before you, who either can lay my letters to my charge or not ; if you lay anything to my charge that I have
written, if I deny it then I am a liar.” “We shall never have done with thee, I perceive now,” said the chancellor. “Be short,
be short, wilt thou have mercy?” “I pray God,” said Bradford, “to give me his mercy, and if therewith you will extend yours,
I will not refuse it ; otherwise I will not.” Here was now much disturbance among them, one speaking this, another that, of his
arrogancy in refusing the queen's pardon, which she so lovingly offered him. To this Bradford answered, “My lords, if I may
live as a quiet subject, without clog of conscience, I shall heartily thank you for your pardon ; if otherwise I behave myself, then
I am in danger of the fault. In the mean season, I ask no more than the benefit of a subject, till I be convicted of transgression.
If I cannot have this, as hitherto I have not had, God’s good will be done.” Upon these words, the chancellor began a long pro-
cess of the false doctrine wherewith people were deceived in the days of King Edward ; so asked Bradford what he thought of it;
who answered, he believed the doctrine then taught was God's true religion, which he believed in more now than ever. “And
therein,” said he, “I am more confirmed, and ready to declare it, by God’s grace, even as he will to the world, than I was when I
first came into the prison.” “What religion mean you,” said the bishop of Durham, “in King Edward's days? What year of his
reign º’ “Even that same year of his reign,” replied he, “that the king died, and I was preacher.” After the examination was
finished, he was reconducted to prison, and placed under great restraint; nevertheless his behaviour and general conduct towards
his keepers so won them over, as to deprive them entirely of all inclination to treat him harshly, or to exercise that tyranny which
had been intended. The bishops continued their endeavours to ensnare him by lengthened discussions, during two other examina-
* Dr. Cuthbert Tonstall. * * Dr. Maurice Griffith, - 3 Edward, the third earl.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 43arish. 3.11
tions, on the articles of faith according to the Romish church, and on transubstantiation and the real presence, and Mr. Bradford
perceiving that all he could answer did but the more inflame their rancour against him, desired them to proceed in God's name, as
he looked for that which God suffered them to do. And when the chancellor objected to his holding, in this his resignation,
another heresy of fatal destiny, he replied, that he spake but as the apostles did ; “Lord! see how Herod and Pontius Pilate,
with the prelates, are gathered together against thee, Christ, to do that which thy hand and counsel hath before ordained them to
do.” The bishop of Winchester now read the excommunication and sentence, during which Bradford fell upon his knees, thanking
God that he had counted him worthy to suffer for his sake, and prayed that he would give them repentance.
Sentence of Condemnation.
“In the name of God Amen. We, Stephen, by the permission of God, bishop of Winchester, lawfully and rightfully proceeding
with all godly favour, by authority and virtue of our office, against thee, John Bradford, before us personally here present, being accused
and detected, and notoriously slandered of heresy, having heard, seen, and understood, and with all diligent deliberation weighed, discussed,
and considered the merits of the cause, all things being observed which by us in this behalf in order of law ought to be observed, sitting
in our judgment-seat, the name of Christ being first called upon, and having God only before our eyes; Because, by the acts enacted, pro-
pounded and exhibited in this matter, and by thine own confession judicially made before us, we do find that thou hast taught, holden, and
affirmed, and obstinately defended, divers errors, heresies, and damnable opinions, contrary to the doctrine and determination of the holy
church, as namely these :—That the Catholic church of Rome is the church of antichrist ; and that in the Sacrament of the altar there is
not substantially nor really the natural body and blood of Christ ;-We, therefore, Stephen Winchester, bishop, ordinary, and diocesan,
aforesaid, by the consent and assent as well of our reverend brethren, the lord bishops here present and assistant, as also by the counsel
and judgment of divers worshipful lawyers and professors of divinity, with whom we have communicated in this behalf, do declare and
pronounce thee, the said John Bradford, through thy demerits, transgressions, obstinacies, and wilfulnesses, to have been, and to be, guilty
of the detestable, horrible, and wicked offence of heretical pravity and execrable doctrine, and that thou hast before us Sundry times
spoken, maintained, and wittingly and stubbornly defended, the said cursed and execrable doctrine in thy Sundry confessions, assertions,
and recognitions here judicially before us often times repeated, and yet still dost maintain, affirm, and believe the same ; and that thou hast
been and art lawfully and ordinarily convicted in this behalf :—We, therefore, I say, albeit following the example of Christ, ‘which would
not the death of a sinner, but rather that he should convert and live, not willing that thou, which art wicked, should now become more
wicked, and infect the Lord’s flock with thine heresy (which we are greatly afraid of), with sorrow of mind and bitterness of heart do
judge thee, and definitively condemn thee, the said John Bradford, and do pronounce and declare thee to be an excommunicate person. Also,
we do pronounce and declare thee, being a heretic, to be cast out from the church, and left unto the judgment of the secular power, and
now do presently leave thee to be degraded worthily for thy demerits (requiring them notwithstanding, in the bowels of Our Lord Jesus
Christ, that this execution and punishment worthily to be done upon thee, may be so moderated, that the rigour thereof be not too
extreme, nor yet the gentleness too much mitigated, but that it may be to the salvation of thy soul, to the extirpation, terror, and con-
version of the heretics, to the unity of the Catholic faith), by this our sentence definite, which we here lay open and against thee, and do
with sorrow of heart promulgate in this form aforesaid.”
When the sentence had been read, he was delivered over to the sheriffs of London ; who first conveyed him to the Clink, a
common gaol in the Borough, where he was confined a day or two, and then removed to the Poultry Compter. During his imprison-
ment in the Compter, Bradford was continually troubled with visits from the bishops and their chaplains, in the hope that, under
the mask of friendship and pity, they might seize upon some confession which his distress might force him to let fall, and so con-
vict him of such erroneous tenets as should afford a pretence or an excuse for their barbarity towards him. His sagacity, however,
in discerning their Snares and repelling their arguments upon sound scripture authority, struck his antagonists with silence, and
obliged them to depart with admiration.
After repeated and ineffectual efforts by an archbishop, several bishops, and other dignitaries, Spanish friars, and others, he
was at last suffered to make that preparation for death which the shortness of his remaining life so urgently demanded. He wrote
several letters to his friends and relatives, both in London and in the country, among which is the following affectionate and pathetic
farewell to his mother, at Manchester, dated 24th June 1555 :—
“My most deare Mother, In the bowels of Christ, I heartely pray and beseech you to be thankful for me unto God, which thus now
taketh me unto himself. I die not, my good mother, as a thiefe, a murtherer, or an adulterer; but I die a witness of Christ hys gospel
and veritye ; which hetherto I have confessed, I thanke God, as well by preaching as by prisonment ; and now, even presently, I shall
moste willingly confyrme the same by fyre. I knowledge that God moste justelye myght take me hence, symply for my sinnes, which are
manye, greate, and grevous ; but the Lord, for his mercy in Christe, hath pardoned them all, I hope ;-but now, deare mother, he taketh
me hence, by this deathe, as a confessor and witnesse, that the religion taught by Christe Jesu, the Prophetes, and the Apostles, is God’s
truth. The Prelates doe persecute in me, Christe, whom they hate ; and his truth which they may not abyde, because their workes are
evil, and may not abyde the truth and lyght, lest men should see their darkness. Therefore, my good and most deare mother, geve thankes
for me to God, that hath made the fruit of your wombe to be a witness of hys glory, and attend to the truth, which, I thank God for it,
I have truly taught out of the Pulpit at Manchester: use often and continual prayer to God the Father, through Christe ;-hearken, as
you maye, to the Scriptures;–serve God after hys word, and not after custome ;-Beware of the Romysh Religion in England, defyle not
yourself wyth it ;-carry Christe's cross as he shall lay it upon your backe;—forgeve them that kill me;—pray for them, for they know
not what they do.” So charging her to be mindful of her daughters, and to do as seemed best with the writings he sent her by his brother
Roger, he takes his last farewell in this life—“beseeching the Almighty and Eternal Father to grant they may meet in the life to come,
where they shall give him continual thankes and praise for ever.”
On the 30th June at midnight he was removed under a strong guard to Newgate, attended by a vast concourse of people, who,
expecting the execution would take place at daybreak, had remained in Smithfield all night. He was not conducted thither, how-
ever, till nine o'clock in the morning, and when he reached the place of execution, he marched boldly up to the stake, and addressed
himself for a short time to prayer; but, being disturbed by the sheriff, on account of the increasing press of people, was desired to
conclude, and prepare for death. He took up a faggot and kissed it, and removed his dress, which he delivered to his servant, and
holding up his hands, exclaimed aloud, “Oh England, England, repent thee of thy sins ! Beware of Idolatry, beware of Anti-
christs, lest they deceive thee l’’ The sheriff now ordered his hands to be tied, and one of the fire-rakers desired he would hold his
tongue, which insult Bradford patiently forgave, and turning himself about, and embracing the flaming reeds, was heard, among
his last words, to say, “Strait is the way, and narrow is the gate, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that go in thereat ; ”
thus confirming, by the sufferings of a most painful and protracted death, that doctrine which he had so effectually preached during
his life. Mr. Bradford, in his disposition, behaviour, and conversation, seems to have been a man singularly agreeable and engaging.
In common life, modest, and sometimes even diffident ; of a sweet and amiable temper, forgiving and forgetful of his injuries;–in
his ministerial capacity bold and fearless; learned, yet not overbearing ; jealous of the march of the Catholic doctrines, and inde-
fatigable in the advancement of the Protestant cause. In the quaint but elegant language of Fuller, “he was a most holy and
mortified man, who, Secretly in his closet, would so weep for his sins, one would have thought he would never have Smiled again ;
and then, appearing in public, he would be so harmlessly pleasant, one would think he had never wept before.” His preferment
in the church was rapid, and had King Edward lived, there is no doubt that, instead of sealing his faith by his death at the stake,
he would have risen to the highest honours, and adorned it with a mitre. He was a voluminous author. Besides the ten or twelve
letters addressed to his friend Travis, the minister of Blackley ; and seventy-two others, published in Bishop Coverdale's collection,
312 (ſiſt ºigturn of £antagüirº.
amongst others, “To those in Lancashire and Cheshire;” “To his Mother, Sisters, and other relatives; ”—and many others, he
wrote many Sermons, etc. -
In the spirit of these times, part of the Collegiate Church of Manchester was converted into a prison,
and a number of Protestants, apprehended in the neighbourhood of Manchester, were confined there, on
charges of heresy, till, on the death of Queen Mary and the accession of her royal sister, they were liberated.
In Mary's reign a native of Manchester, of the name of Ellys, calling himself Elias, pretended to the
gift of prophecy, and practised with some success upon the credulity of the people of this town ; but, aspir-
ing to a wider field of action, he repaired to London in 1562, when the authorities of that city, regardless
of his mission, cast him into Bridewell as an impostor, where he died three years afterwards."
The zeal of the ministers of Queen Elizabeth in favour of the reformed religion exhibited itself with
much energy in the county of Lancaster, and in no place so strongly as in the town of Manchester. No
sooner had the queen ascended the throne, than an ecclesiastical court, consisting of forty commissioners, was
established, to make inquisition into the state of the churches in the several dioceses of the kingdom, to
abolish all foreign power, as repugnant to the laws and constitution of the country, and to introduce into the
services of the church, on an appointed day (June 24, 1559), the book of Common Prayer. The commissioners
were empowered to visit and reform all errors, heresies, and schisms, to punish all breaches of uniformity in
the exercises of public worship ; and in conducting their inquiries they were enabled, not only to resort to
the legal method of juries and witnesses but also to any other means; and even the rack, torture, and
imprisonment, were allowed for extracting what was called the truth from the accused party. By the admini-
stration of an oath ea officio, persons falling under the Suspicion of these commissioners were obliged to accuse
themselves; and they had the power to levy fines, even to the total ruin of the offender. The commissioners
for the north were Francis, earl of Shrewsbury, president of the council; Edward, earl of Derby; Thomas,
earl of Northumberland; Edwin Sandys, archbishop of York; Cuthbert Scott,” the third bishop of Chester,
and several others. Owing to the falling away to popery of many gentlemen and others in the county of
Lancaster, her majesty's council appointed a special ecclesiastical commission for the diocese of Chester, con-
sisting of the archbishop of York, the earl of Derby, the bishop of Chester and others, whose sittings were
held in Manchester. As the zeal of the commissioners did not keep pace with the expectations of the court;
and as in Lancashire the Roman Catholic religion, instead of declining, seemed to gain ground, the queen
addressed a letter to the earl of Derby, in which the bishop of Chester was required to make personal visita-
tion to the most remote parts of his diocese, and especially into Lancashire, and to see that the churches were
provided with honest men and learned curates. The bishop hastened to obey the injunction of the queen;
and by Sir Edmund Trafford he was informed that the county was growing ripe for a rebellion. To avert this
catastrophe, the commissioners put in force their extensive powers so “roundly” as to excite terror wherever
they could not produce conviction; and even Sir John Southworth, who is soon afterwards found in the New
Fleet, at Manchester, on the general and vague charge of recusancy, was brought to sign the qualified sub-
mission, whereby he engaged not to receive into his house or company those who spoke against the reformed
religion, or who had misconducted themselves in refusing to repair to their parish church at common
prayer. In the meantime, Dean Nowell, chaplain to the queen, to whom Manchester College was indebted
for the preservation of its revenues,” continued to preach in Manchester and other parts of the county, and
to give a decided preference to the doctrine of the rising sect of Puritans. The ministry of the dean is repre-
sented as extremely powerful; and a “Sore sickness,” which prevailed amongst the inhabitants of Manchester,
in 1565, greatly increased the effect of his preaching."
The contest between the rival houses of Tudor and Stuart, in the persons of Queen Elizabeth and of
Mary Queen of Scots, was now drawing to a crisis. Amongst the supporters of the English queen and the
Protestant religion, we find the names of William West, Lord de la Warre, Robert Worsley, Edmund
Trafford, John Radcliffe, and Robert Barton, all nearly connected with the town of Manchester. The parish
registers of births, deaths, and marriages, at the Collegiate Church were commenced on the 1st of August
1573; and the first entry in the burials is the name of Robert Fisher; but it is evident there was an earlier
registration than this, since, in the extracts from the records in Lancaster Castle, made by Roger Dodsworth, we
find mention of the christening of Richard Holland, extracted apparently from the register in Manchester church,
6 Henry VIII. (1514). At this time Lancashire was represented by Lord Burghley, in a letter to Dr. Chad-
derton, bishop of Chester, as in an ill state ; and the revenues of the Collegiate Church seem to have been
misapplied, owing to the want of proper persons to watch over them. Rigorous proceedings were still
i Strype's Annals, vol. i. p. 506. chester there is a stone, about three feet high, on the top of which
2 Dr. Scott had been imprisoned in the New Fleet, in Man- are cut two small basons. It is called the “plague-stone,” and it
chester, in Queen Mary's reign, for his adherence, to the reformed is said, at the time when this malady raged in Manchester, that
faith. these basons were filled with water. When the country people
* Strype's Annals of the Reformation, vol. ii. p. 454. . brought their provisions the purchasers put their money into one of
4 There is a very prevalent but obscure tradition in this the basons, to purify it from the pestilential touch of the towns-
neighbourhood, that a plague prevailed here; it may have been this people, before it went into the hands of the farmers. There are
“sore sickness,” or it may have been “the plague of 1604,” as no several other stones about the town of a similar appearance, and,
one can assign the date; and on the road from Stretford to Man- no doubt, applied to the same purpose.
#umbrell of $alfort—ſºlamriještet #arisiſ. 313
pressed by the lords of the council against the popish recusants, and in 1580 Sir John Southworth, Lady
Egerton, James Labourne, esq., John Townley, esq., Sir Thomas Hesketh, the lady of Sir Bartholomew
Hesketh, Campion the Jesuit, James Aspåen, John Baxter, William Wickliffe, and Richard Massey, were
shut up in the New Fleet at Manchester, or in the castle at Halton in the county of Chester, being all
rendered liable to the pains and penalties which it was the fashion of those times to impose for the delin-
quency of opposing the state religion. At the period of the removal of the Sanctuary from Manchester to
Chester there was no gaol in Manchester; but the necessity of the times now gave rise to the erection of a
prison, which stood on the banks of the Irk, on the site of the present Palatine Buildings, and was called
the New Fleet. The bishop of Chester now took the resolution to fix his residence at Manchester, that he
might the better Superintend that part of his diocese where his vigilance was the most required. This
resolution called forth the commendation of the lord-president of the council, at whose instance public
lectures in the Collegiate Church were set up daily, at six o'clock in the morning, and at seven o'clock in the
evening. All this care seemed insufficient ; and a further complaint was made to the high-sheriff of the
county of Lancaster, by the lords in council, that the magistrates were not sufficiently energetic in their
proceedings for the suppression of the obnoxious faith, and that the rural deans, ministers, and churchwardens,
failed to make presentments against many of the recusants. The Jesuits Campion and Parsons had, it
appeared, from the confession of the former, been long in close communication with the Catholics of Lanca-
shire; and on Campion's trial before the chief justice in London, these communications were urged in support
of the accusation made against him of a design to subvert the government and to dethrone the queen. His
condemnation, and subsequent execution, arose in some degree out of these facts. In 1582 a parish impost
of eight pence per week throughout the diocese of Chester was laid principally for the support of the poor
recusants in the New Fleet at Manchester, under the wardship of Mr. Robert Worsley of the Booths."
James Labourne, the Catholic gentleman designated by Campion as a noble layman, after undergoing an
examination before the earl of Derby and the bishop of Chester, was committed to Lancaster Castle on a
charge of conspiring, with others, to overturn the queen's government. James Bell, a priest, was also a
prisoner at Manchester, sometimes in “an obscure and horrible lake” (which Hollinworth supposes to have
been “a gentleman's house, in or near the Market-sted Lane, called Mr. Radcliffe's of the Poole”), and sometimes
in the New Fleet ; and Dame Alana, the widow of the brother of Cardinal Allen, who was born in this
county, was much troubled by Sir Edmund Trafford of Trafford, a bitter enemy to the Catholics. Of the
recusants who were confined in Manchester, those sent to Lancaster were conveyed at the town's expense.
There they were brought to trial, and capitally convicted. Their execution followed soon afterwards (1585),
and their heads were brought to Manchester, and placed upon the steeple of the Collegiate Church. Amongst
these ill-fated Catholics was John Finch, a native of Eccleston in this county, who being brought before the
earl of Derby and questioned concerning the queen's Supremacy, fearlessly declared that he acknowledged no
authority of her majesty over him in spiritual matters; which declaration so much roused the ire of the earl,
that he gave him a box with his own hand as a punishment for his temerity.” Some relaxation now took
place in the severity of the proceedings against the recusants; and Sir John Southworth, at the instance of
the lords of the council, was allowed to repair to London from Manchester for medical advice; and the same
indulgence was vouchsafed to Mr. Townley, the brother-in-law of Dean Nowell, on the intercession of the
dean. It will readily be conceived, that the agitation in England on account of religion prevailed at this
time strongly in Ireland; and Sir Edmund Trafford received a commission to place himself at the head of
two hundred soldiers, raised in the county of Lancaster, to aid in an expedition to that country for the
purpose of coercing the refractory inhabitants into subjection. A long list of the names of persons charged
with the crime of receiving priests, seminaries, and other Catholics in the county of Lancaster was, in 1586,
transmitted from hence to London; and amongst others we find William Hulton and his wife, in the deanery
of Manchester, reported obstinate. The English Benedictines beyond the sea being now reduced to a single
individual (Father Sigebert Buckley), preparations were made for a continuance of the order, and nine others
were chosen, five at Walladolid in Spain, and four at Rome, amongst the latter of whom was Father Anselme
of Manchester. -
The documentary history of the proceedings of the ecclesiastical commission in Manchester, and in other
parts of the diocese of Chester, from the year 1583 to 1586, is given at considerable length in the Chaderton
MSS., and presented in abridgment in the earlier part of this work. This commission did not confine its
exertions to the coercion of the Catholics, but extended its services to the regulation of the morals of the people ;
and hence the proclamation issued against the holding of wakes, fairs, ales, and May-games, on the Sabbath,
was disseminated through the town of Manchester, and the other towns and districts of the county palatine.
The number of alehouse-keepers and bakers in Manchester, at this period, was represented by the lords of
1 The lords of the council having given orders that all the inhabitants of Manchester were found to be generally well affected
prisoners that were committed for obstimacy in religion should be to religion; and that Chester Castle stood too near the sea-coast.—
placed in the New Fleet at Manchester, and in that prison only, Strype's Annals of the Reformation, vol. iii. p. 168.
assign as their reason that they consider this place more fit and
convenient for the purpose than the castle of Chester, for that the * Dodd's Church. History, vol. ii. p. 168.
2 S
314 (The #istory of £ancashire.
the council to be excessive, and a letter was addressed to Sir John Byron, knight, Thomas Holcroft, Richard
Asshton, and Richard Brereton, esquires, requiring them to call before them all such persons, and to suppress
as many of their houses as they should think advisable. According to this despatch, the houses of entertain-
ment were the very nurseries of all malefactors, and the harbourers of all lewd and disorderly persons, and,
as such, stood in the way of that reformation of morals which it was the object of the ecclesiastical
commission, and of the government by whom the commissioners were appointed, to effect. Nothing was too
large or too small to escape the vigilance of the ministers of Queen Elizabeth, and hence an act was passed to
keep up the breed of horses, which Lord Burghley, by a letter of instructions addressed to the magistrates of
the hundred of Salford, required them to enforce. At the following quarter-sessions for the hundred, the
subjoined original document on this subject appears among the presentments:—
“HUNDRED DE SALFORD.—The Presentmtes of the Jurates theire whoe Saye that concerninge the Carryinge or conveying of horses and
mares out of this Realme theye fynde nothinge. And as towchinge thincrease & breedinge of horses, geldinges and mares the said
Jurates saye that the Right ho. Edward Therle of Derby hath iſ parkes wººin the said hundreth. The one Contayinge in Quantity 3 myles
Compas, and the other one myle, and hath mares for breede accordinge to the statute. Edmunde Trafford esq. hath iſ parkes wthin the
said hundrethe, eyther of them contayninge in Quantitie twooe myles Compas, and hath mares for breede accordinge to the Statute.
Robert Worsley knight hath one parke in the said hundredth, contayninge in Quantity iſ myles in Compasse, and hath mares for breede
accordinge to the Statute. John Byron Esq. hath one parke in the saidde hundrethe contayninge in Quantitie ij myles in Compas & hath
mares for breede according to the Statute. John Bothe esq. hath one parke in the said hundreth contayninge in Quantity iſ myles Compas
and hath mares for breede accordinge to the statute. Richard Asshton of Middleton esq mowe the Queens Ma” warde, hath one parke
within the said hundrethe Contayninge in Quantity iſ myles compas.” "
About this time Camden, in the pursuit of his topographical inquiries, visited Manchester, of which town
he gives the following short description in his Britannia —
“At the confluence of the Irwell and the Irk,” says he, “on the left bank, which is of reddish stone, scarce three miles from
the Mersey, stands that ancient town called by Antoninus, according to the various readings, Mancunium and Manucium, and by
us at present, with some traces of the old name, Manchester. It surpasses the neighbouring towns in elegance and populousness;
there is a woollen-manufacture, market, church, and college founded by Thomas Lord de la Warre, who took Orders, and was the
last male heir of his family, in the time of Henry V. He was descended from the Gresleys, who are said to have been the ancient
lords of the town. In the last age it was much more famous for its manufacture of stuffs, called Manchester cottons, and the
privilege of Sanctuary, which the parliament, under Henry VIII., transferred to Chester.”
Hitherto the bridge over the Mersey at Crossford, or Crossferry, near to the point where the ancient
Roman road passed that river by Stretford, was of timber, but in 1577 that bridge was taken down and
replaced, by the county, with a stone edifice, at a cost of £240, towards which sum the inhabitants of the
town of Manchester, “ of their benevolence,” says Hollinworth, bestowed £40. On the same authority it
appears that the recently enclosed common-land of Collyhurst was leased by the acre at four shillings a-year,
with a fine of twenty shillings to the lord on the execution of the leases. In 1578 the lord of the manor
assumed the right of choosing the boroughreeve of Manchester. This claim the burgesses resisted, on the
ground that by the terms of the charter granted by Thomas de Gresley, in 1301, they had a right “to
choose or to remove the reeve.” The rival candidates were, John Gee, returned by the lord’s steward, and
Robert Langley, by the town. The animosities engendered by these conflicting claims had probably some
influence in inducing the lord of the manor to alienate his inheritance ; however this may be, the manorial
possessions passed by purchase, in the following year (1579), to John Lacye, esq., a clothmaker of London, for
the sum of £3000. -
The spiritual duties of the bishop of Chester, and his friendship towards the noble inhabitant of Alport
Lodge,” had inclined him to fix his abode in the most populous and important town of his diocese; but the
1 Harl. MSS. cod. 1926, fol. 38 a.
* Alport Lodge, the seat of the earl of Derby, is thus described
by Mr. Palmer in his history of the siege of Manchester —“The
Lodge was situated in Alport Park, which was held soon after the
foundation of the Collegiate Church by the warden thereof, under
a rent of four marks per annum, from Richard West Lord De la
Warre, lord of Manchester, and continued to be enjoyed by his suc-
cassors in office under the same annual rent, till the dissolution of
the college in the reign of Edward VI., when it was granted to the
earl of Derby with the rest of the College land. It appears that
Alport Park and Over Alport contained in the whole ninety-five
acres and upwards, and would cover the whole area between the
rivers Irwell and Tib, and between the river Medlock and the
present Quay Street. The Park was situated upon the right of the
road to Knott Mill, and included the present Castle and Camp Fields;
for Kuerden mentions the foundation of the castle as being visible
in his time within the park of the earl of Derby. The present
situation of the lodge cannot be ascertained with accuracy, but
there is reason to suppose that it stood near the spot, adjoining to
Alport Street, now called Dean's Gate, and almost opposite to the
end of Fleet Street.”
By some deeds and documents, penes Henry Charlesworth, esq.
of Manchester, we learn that on the 8th March 1599 William sixth
earl of Derby demised to Sir Randle Brereton, knight, for a term
of 2000 years, the house called Alport Lodge, in Alport Park, also
the enclosed grounds called Alport Park and Alport Field, and two
other enclosures and all other land of the earl in Alport. Two
days afterwards Sir Randle assigned his estate and interest therein
to John Wakefield of Warrington, gentleman, and Thomas Rowe
of Hartford, Cheshire, yeoman. In the following April and May
Wakefield and Sir Randle assigned over all their respective estates
therein to Rowe, who, on 22d May 1599, by direction of Thomas
Ireland of Gray's Inn, esq., assigned over all his estate and inte-
rest therein to Edward Mosley of Gray's Inn, esq., and Adam
Smyth and Oswald Mosley of Manchester, gentlemen. Then a deed
of settlement, of 31st January 1600, between William earl of Derby
and the three daughters of Ferdinando (fifth earl), styled the Lady
Anne Stanley, Lady Estrange (afterwards, by marriage, Lady Chan-
dos and the Countess of Castlehaven), and the Ladies Frances Stan-
ley (afterwards Countess of Bridgewater) and Elizabeth Stanley
(afterwards Countess of Huntingdon), and Edward Rigby and Tho-
mas Ireland, esq.S., and Michael Doughty, gentlemen—by which
the earl and his three nieces covenanted with the three other parties
to suffer fines and recoveries of many estates, including Alport
Lodge, Park, Field, and lands, to the sole use, etc., of the three
trustees named. Lastly, there is a conveyance, dated 20th June
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arígí, 315
feuds which arose between the attendants of the bishop and the townsmen of Manchester, many of whom
were inclined to the ancient faith, induced him to remove to Chester, and thus to defeat the expectation that
Manchester Would become the permanent seat of an episcopal see. At this time Manchester, though compara-
tively so important, did not contain as many inhabitants as are returned in the census of 1831 for the town
of Lancaster, and, on referring to the bills of mortality for the year 1580, we find that the number of
marriages in the whole year was not equal to those that are now frequently solemnised in the Collegiat
Church of Manchester in one day (Easter Monday). The state of society was now rapidly improving in
Manchester, as well as in the other towns of the kingdom : the capital of the manufacturers had increased
with the improved demand for their drapery; the labourers were profitably employed; domestic comforts
were enlarged; the luxuries of chimneys and glass windows in dwelling-houses began to be generally
introduced ; straw pallets and wooden bolsters, on which the fathers of the present inhabitants had reposed,
were discarded, and beds and pillows were introduced in their stead. At the houses of public accommodation
to which travellers resorted the improvement was equally manifest: clean linen was placed upon their beds,
and a separate room was assigned to each traveller, at a cost of a penny a-night if he came to the inn
unattended by a horse, and without cost if he travelled on horseback. Carriages had not then been
introduced, or at least were unknown amongst persons of inferior station. The streets of the principal towns
in the county were unpaved, and the buildings were chiefly constructed of wood, covered with a kind of mud-
plaster. The streets were so narrow that Market Street Lane in Manchester, before the improvements (1822-34),
exhibited a favourable specimen of the most spacious of the great public thoroughfares. The progress of
improvement suffered a temporary check from a dreadful dearth (1585-6), arising out of a succession of
unfavourable seasons, by which the penny loaf of white bread was reduced to six ounces, of bolted bread to
ten or eleven ounces, and of rye bread to ten ounces. The bishop of Chester, commiserating the condition of
the poor, endeavoured to enlarge the size of the loaf by an order to the bakers to the effect that the inferior
sorts should be nearly one-half heavier than could be afforded at the fair market-price. The effect of this
singular ordinance is not stated, though there is little doubt that it was wholly nugatory, if not extremely
mischievous. -
The first operation of the printing-press that can be traced to Manchester is to be found in the works of
Penry, a puritan from Wales, who, under the assumed name of MARTIN MARPRELATE, issued from a kind of
flying press, Secreted in Newton Lane (now Great Ancoats Street), a number of obnoxious pamphlets printed
by one Hodgkins, to which the lords of the council had, no doubt, reference in their letter to Ferdinando
Stanley and others, when they rebuked the authorities in this place for not suppressing the “infamous libels”
then afloat.' Penry ultimately paid the penalty of his temerity with his life, on which a northern rhymer
produced the following jeu d'esprit —
“The Welchman is hanged
Who at our Kirke flanged,
And at her state banged,
And brened are his bucks.
And tho he be hanged;
Yet he is not wranged,
The de'ul has him fanged
In his kruked kluks.”
The agitation from the threat of Spanish invasion by the “Invincible Armada” manifested itself strongly
in Manchester; and, among other symptoms of alarm, a “panic fear” seized upon the lord bishop, then
warden, and other inhabitants of the town, arising out of a flying report that a strong army was marching
from the north towards Manchester, and had already encamped upon Swinton Moor. In the midst of this
panic the shambles were removed to Salford bridge, and hasty preparations were made for defence; but a
few hours served to dispel the illusion; and as the beacons, which at this time were continually in readiness,
did not blaze forth in the course of the night, the public mind became more composed on the following day,
and the inhabitants returned to their avocations, no doubt venting their sarcasms at the bishop for raising an
alarm that seems to have had no ground except the heated imaginations of the people by whom he was
surrounded.
By the interference of the Rev. Edward Fleetwood, rector of Wigan, which was deemed by the Salford
hundred magistracy officious and obtrusive, a great number of persons in the several hundreds of the county
were proposed as commissioners under a new ecclesiastical commission intended to be issued in 1588. Against
1626, from Samuel Mosley of the Garrett to George Tipping of
Manchester, which recites that the late Oswald Mosley, father of
Samuel, was possessed of certain closes in Alport Park and Field
(26 acres), by demise from William earl of Derby, for 2000 years,
and that by his will (20th December 1621) he demised to his son
Samuel closes in Alport Field (14 acres) for the residue of the
term ; and then Samuel Mosley conveys to George Tipping, in con-
sideration of £260, the same closes (14 acres) for the residue of the
term. A bond from Mosley to Tipping in £50 is to be void if .
Nosley fulfils all his covenants.-H.
1. On this subject, Strype, in his Annals of the Reformation, vol.
iii. p. 263, Appendix, has preserved the following examination of
the printer before the ecclesiastical commission at Lambeth :—
“Hodgkins, and Symms and Tomlyn, Hodgkins' men, confess,
That beginning to print the book called More Work for the Cooper
in Newton Lane, near Manchester, they had printed thereof about
six quires of one side before they were apprehended. They also
deposed, That Hodgkins told them, the next book, or the next but
one which they had to print, should be in Latin [which was, per-
haps, Disciplina Sacra). And that there was another parcel of
“More Work,’ &c. which should serve them to print another time.
For this was but the first part of the said book, and the other part
was almost as big again.”
* Hollinworth's Mancuniensis, fo. 21.
316 (Iiſt £istorm of 3Lancashire.
these appointments a remonstrance was sent on the 22d of May, dated from Alport Park, and signed
“Ferdinando Strange,” the “Bishop of Chester,” “John Strange,” “John Byron,” “E. D. Trafforde,” “Ryc.
Shyrburn,” “John Atherton,” and “Hugh Cholmedly,” assigning reasons why the commissioners should be
select ; the principal of which was, that by the introduction of a number of persons of inferior station, men of
more exalted rank in the county would be prevented from acting, and Schism and discontent would ensue.
It was, however, admitted that a renewed ecclesiastical commission for the diocese of Chester was needful for
the furtherance of religion, and the reformation of all ecclesiastical faults and enormities, which were repre-
sented as great and many, and her majesty was earnestly requested to make the appointments subject to the
wisdom and discretion of her council. The rector's advice was, however, preferred to the wishes of the
aristocratical conclave assembling at Alport Lodge; and the consequence was, as had been foreseen, that the
business soon devolved upon the ordinary magistracy of the county. In 1593 the earl of Derby died, and
two years after that time the bishop of Chester was translated to Lincoln. The magistrates, as had been
anticipated, soon became lax in their duty.
“The county of Lancaster” (says an official memorial addressed by the queen's council to the legislature) “is mightily infested
with popery; the number of justices of the peace within that county being but few that take any care in the repression thereof.
The wives, children, and servants of some justices of the peace of that county being also chief offenders there, are notable recusants,
and many of them stand indicted at Lancaster upon the statute. There are that stand indicted upon the statute of recusants eight
hundred persons at the least within that county, whereof many of them are persons of good livelihood in that county.” The docu-
ment then states that the accused parties are so much identified by family connections and friendly intercourse with those that
ought to bring them to justice “that few of them are brought to trial, the penalties are not enforced, the law is disregarded, and
popery remains unpunished.”
Mr. Hollinworth, in his Annals of Manchester for 1592, says “that William, the son of Simon Maloone,
a young man of pregnant wit, was born here,” and that he afterwards removed to Ireland, where he conducted
a controversy with Archbishop Usher in support of the antiquity of the church of Rome. Dodd, in his
Church. History, asserts that Maloone was born in Ireland, and going abroad became a Jesuit. He was some
time rector of an Irish college at Rome, and afterwards returned to Ireland as a missionary, where he had
frequent conferences with Bishop Usher and other learned Protestants. Having lain in prison a considerable
time, he suffered great hardships, but at length escaped, and went to Spain, where he was rector of the
college of Seville, and died in 1654."
At no period in the history of Manchester was there a greater disposition to believe in witchcraft,
demoniacal possession, and the occult sciences, than at the close of the sixteenth century. The Seer Edward
Kelly was ranging through the county, practising the black art. Dr. Dee, the friend and associate of this
impostor, had recently obtained the appointment of warden of the Collegiate Church of Manchester (1595), by
favour of his royal patroness, Queen Elizabeth, herself a believer in his astrological calculations; and the fame
of the strange doings in the family of Mr. Starkie had spread far and wide. The new warden was really a
learned man, of the most inquisitive mind, addicted to chemical pursuits, not wholly unconnected with those
of alchymy, and not altogether detached from the practice of necromancy and magic, notwithstanding his
positive asseverations to the contrary in his petition to King James. His life was full of vicissitudes.
Though enjoying the patronage of princes, he was always involved in embarrassments, and was at length
obliged to relinquish his church preferment in Manchester in 1604, owing to the differences that existed
between himself and his ecclesiastical brethren. It does not appear that during his residence in Lancashire
he encouraged the deceptions of the exorcists; on the contrary, he refused to become a party in the pretended
attempt to cast out devils at Cleworth, and he strongly rebuked Hartlay the conjuror, who was afterwards
executed at Lancaster for his fraudulent pretensions. After quitting Manchester, the doctor travelled with
seer Kelly in Germany, where they held correspondence with the various spirits of the elements, on the
principles of the Rosicrucian philosophy, and affirmed that they could bind to their service, and imprison in a
ring, a mirror, or a stone, some fairy, sylph, or salamander, from which they could receive answers to such
questions as the spirit-seer should think proper to propose. Dr. Dee had himself a stone or crystal of this
Kind, and was so weak as to believe, or so wicked as to pretend to believe, that the spirits attached to it
appeared to Kelly, who acted as his viewer. This spirit-mirror was at his death, which took place in 1608,
in his 81st year, found in his library, and is now exhibited amongst the curiosities in the British Museum.”
Hollinworth, who lived in the following age, and who must have had good opportunities of making himself
acquainted with the character and demeanour of Dr. Dee during his residence in Manchester, describes him
as a man of “Sober, just, and temperate carriage,” and as a “strict observer of public and private devotions.”
This character is not very conformable to that we are accustomed to attach to the associates of notorious
impostors, in which class Kelly must undoubtedly be ranked.
In 1605 Manchester was again visited with a dreadful epidemic, so fatal in its consequences as to obtain
1 Dodd's Church. Hist, vol. ii. p. 119. Brit. Chem. Annot.—B. See also Autobiographical Tracts of Dr.
* See Dr. Casaubon's book on Dr. Dee's Conversations for many John Dee, edited by James Crossley, esq., F.S.A., vol. 24 of the
Years with Spirits, Weaver's Funeral Monuments, and William Chetham Society's series; and the Private Diary of Dr. John Dee.
Lilly's History of his Life and Times; see also Ashmole's Theat. edited by J. O. Halliwell, esq., Camden Society's series.—H.
#umbret of $alfort-ſtartchester 3}arígú. 317
the name of the plague. In 1604 the number of deaths returned in the bills of mortality for this parish was
188; in 1605, the number was swelled to 1078 ; and the year following reduced to 153. Monuments of
this malady still exist on the way to Stretford, and other places in the neighbourhood of Manchester, in the
“plague-stones;” if indeed these stones do not claim a higher antiquity. Five-and-twenty years afterwards
the alarm of a renewed plague prevailed again in Manchester, from the whole family, in one of the inns,
having died suddenly. Of this mortality Hollinworth says, “Anno 1631, the Lord sent his destroying
angel into an inne house in Manchester, in which died Richard Merriot and his wife (master and dame of the
house) and all that were in it, or went into (it's thought) for certain days together, till at the last they burned
or buried all the goods in the house, and yet God in the midst of judgment did remember mercy, for no
person else was that yeare touched with the infection.” In 1605 Rowland Mosley, esq., the lord of the
manor, appropriated six acres of land in Collyhurst as a burial-place for those who died of the plague, and
for the further purpose of erecting lazar-houses, whenever any infection of the plague might appear in Man-
chester. In 1617 the Irwell was swelled to a height never before known, so that the water actually ran
upon the bridge which connects Manchester and Salford. The charter of Manchester, granted by Thomas
de Gresley, the sixth baron, in the year 1301, was enrolled and exemplified by King James I., on the 16th of
September 1623. In 1625, Sir Henry Montagu, grandson of Sir Edward Montagu, lord chief justice in the
reign of Henry VIII., received from James I. the title of Lord Montagu of Kimbolton, in the county of Hunt-
ingdon, in the year 1620, and from Charles I., in 1625, the dignity of earl of Manchester, in the county
palatine of Lancaster. Edward, the eldest son and successor of the first earl, was the commander-in-chief on
the side of parliament in the early part of the civil wars, and was grandfather of Charles, the fourth earl and
the first duke of Manchester, who was elevated to the latter dignity on the 30th of April 1719, from whom
descended his grace the sixth and present duke, George Montagu, duke and earl of Manchester, Wiscount Man-
deville, Baron Montagu of Kimbolton, etc. . *:
One of those eruptions, formerly not unusual in the county of Lancaster, which is distinguished for its
mosses, spread consternation and alarm in Manchester on the morning of New Year's day, 1633, when Hough
Moss, adjoining to Chorlton-on-Medlock, was seen to rise from its bed, and to float to the neighbouring
brooks and rivers, where it destroyed the fish, blackened the waters, and left behind it, on the land over
which it passed, a wreck so deep and pernicious as to reduce fertile soils to a state of sterility. Happily, only
one house then stood in its course to the waters. An inflammatory placard, strongly indicative of the
austerity of the puritans of this age, in contrast with that licentiousness of manners which had insinuated
itself under the sanction of the “Book of Sports,” was stuck upon the south door of the Collegiate Church in
Manchester in May 1632, and is preserved in the British Museum [Harl. MSS. cod. 2176, fo. 4], verified by
the indorsement of John Ratcliffe, one of the churchwardens. An inference may be raised from a fatal acci-
dent, mentioned by Hollinworth as having occurred in this year (1632), that the habits of the clergy had
degenerated on Dr. Chaderton quitting Manchester; for, according to this authority, the dead body of the
Rev. Daniel Baker, one of the fellows of the College, and rector of Ashton, was found, on the day after Good
Friday, under Salford bridge, having, it is feared, after he had administered the sacrament of the Lord's
Supper, “been somewhat overcharged with drink!” and fallen or been thrown into the river over the battle-
ment, which was then very low.
From the period of the Reformation till the reign of Charles I, the Trafford family, so closely connected
with the town of Manchester, had been staunch supporters of the Protestant religion, and Sir Edmund
Trafford, in particular, is represented “as a most bitter enemy of the Catholics;” but, in 1632, Sir Cecil
Trafford abjured the reformed faith, and became a Catholic. A note in Hollinworth’s MS., written by
another hand, says, that Sir Cecil was converted to the Catholic creed by the arguments he met with while
studying the case, in order to bring Mr. Downes back to the Protestant faith, from which he had revolted.
The political aspect of the times had probably some influence in effecting this change. Sir Cecil was, it
appears, warmly attached to the prerogatives of the crown, and he viewed with apprehension the misunder-
standing which existed between Charles I. and his parliament, arising, as he conceived, out of the puritanical
doctrines now so prevalent, and for which he was himself at one time supposed to have a strong predilection.”
To strengthen the king's cause, Sir Cecil Trafford, Edmund Ashton, esq., and several other zealous royalists,
supplied the inhabitants of Manchester and the neighbouring towns with arms, and his majesty's deputy-
1 “A piece of Paracelsus his Plaster, or a little Melancholike
Treason, extracted from a distracted and simple Soul.-This [is]
a general fast against the general day of Judgment. Close upon the
XIth. of Numbers. The Lord gave the Israelites a certaine rate or
allowance of bread every day, so much as might preserve the body
in humility and Subjection to the soul, whereby they might onely
unite in the lust OT service of Him, rather than any lust or service
of the body whatsoever, yet they lusted for flesh, and dye with it
'between their teeth. Use the 2d of Joel. Why do ye eat, drinke,
and live at ease only to fulfill the desire of the body, to wife, child-
ren, getting of goods, murther, adultery, or any external thing
whatsoever ? I say unto you, mortifie the corrupt nature of the
body by fasting, be content with so much bread and water as may
preserve the life of the body in humility and subjection to the
soule, whereby they may onely unite in the lust and service of God,
which is the life for ever, rather than any lust or service of the
body whatsoever. As Moses, by the will of God, was the mes-
senger to deliver the Israelites from under the bondage of the devill,
and the desire of Pharao, out of the land of Egypt into the land of
Chanaan, so, by this similitude, have you deliverance here from
under the bondage of the devil, and the desire of Charles, out of the
land of England into the land of heaven, all that believe and resist.”
* Hollinworth’s MS, fo. 26.
3.18 (Liſt £ištúrg of 3Lantagjire.
lieutenants trained the people to the use of them. The disposition of the county was, however, in favour of
peace, and, as one step towards the preservation of that blessing, a petition from the freeholders of the county
of Lancaster was sent to Charles I., who had quitted London and repaired to York, intimating to his majesty
the wish entertained by his loyal Subjects to see the dissensions between him and his parliament reconciled.
The presentation of this memorable petition was confided to a deputation, consisting of the warden of
Manchester, and a number of other freeholders, amongst whom we find the name of John Bradshaw of
Bradshaw, which gentleman, at a subsequent period, took the precedency of two others in certain ordinances
of the committee of sequestrators, dated from Manchester, 24th September 1647. The breach was found too
wide to be healed; the sword was ready to start from the scabbard; and Lord Strange soon after came from
York to Manchester, invested with the celebrated commission of array.
The causes of the differences between Charles I. and his parliament having been already stated, it is
unnecessary here to repeat them. Both parties professed a wish to govern according to the laws and
constitution of England; but both the court and the parliament, being more anxious for their own aggrand-
isement than for the public good, fell into errors which could only be atoned by the sufferings and blood of
the people. Manchester, from the skill and industry of its inhabitants, had risen to a state of high prosperity
in trade, manufactures, and commerce. The cotton business, though only in its infancy, had begun to flourish
here; the trade with Ireland in linens was very considerable; and, in the homely language of the day, “the
treasure of traffic was very abundant.” Prosperity and intelligence begat an impatient desire for free
government, both in church and state ; and the spread of puritanical doctrines tended to heighten that
feeling. The principal men in the town and district of Manchester took a deep interest in the contest between
the king and his parliament ; some of them, principally of the higher order, favouring the royal cause; but a
still larger body, both in number and activity, espousing the cause of the parliament. According to one of the
semi-official publications of the day, “the tradesmen in Manchester stood upon their guard, with their shops
shut up, on the approach of Lord Strange, well affected to the king's majesty, and to both houses of parliament,
in opposition to all that should oppose them ; and the country around was very observant of any command,
to be in readiness to attend there, or elsewhere, for the defence of their country, and of their lives, liberties,
and estates, and the defence of the true Protestant religion.” Though the elements of war had long been
accumulating, the disposition of the people was still in favour of peace ; but the king having issued his commission
of array at York to Lord Strange, directing his lordship, with the aid of other commissioners named in that
document, to assemble and array such of his subjects, in the counties of Lancaster and Chester, as were favourable
to the royal cause, war, with all its fatal consequences, seemed inevitable. This memorable commission, so
highly obnoxious to parliament, was issued in June 1642; and about the middle of that month Sir John
Girlington, knt.; high-sheriff of Lancashire, and one of the commissioners of array, took such measures as he
conceived necessary to secure for the use of the royal troops “the powder and match,” which were deposited
in the different towns of the county. Ralph Assheton, esq. of Middleton, one of the county members in the
interest of the parliament, on hearing of these measures from Alexander Rigby, esq., repaired to Manchester,
where he secured ten barrels of powder and a few bundles of match, which were found lodged in the College
buildings, belonging to Lord Strange, and thus anticipated Sir Alexander Radcliffe and Thomas Prestwich,
esq., two of the commissioners of array, and Mr. Nicholas Mosley, who were preparing to obtain this
ammunition for the use of the king. These unequivocal symptoms of approaching war induced the inhabitants
of Manchester to take up arms under Alexander Rigby, Ralph Assheton, and John Moore, and others of the
deputy-lieutenants, by whom they were trained to arms, and many from the adjacent country came voluntarily
to their assistance. Lord Strange had in the meantime assembled a considerable force, and, having marched
into Lancashire from York, where he had been in attendance upon the king, he demanded from the inhabitants
of Manchester that they should surrender to him the magazine, which had recently been collected to defend
them against an apprehended massacre in Lancashire, similar to that which had taken place in Ireland. To
this demand they replied that their arms and ammunition formed their principal Safeguard, and that they
would defend them with their lives.” Irritated by this refusal, his lordship advanced to the town on the
morning of the 4th of July 1642, and attempted to enter at the head of his forces; but the inhabitants, says
the parliamentary record, “with most puissant courage,” Successfully resisted the attempt, and slew two
of his lordship's men. The 15th of the same month, Lord Strange was invited to a public entertainment
by the royalist party of the town; while the company were in the banqueting-room, Captain Holcroft and
Captain Birch, “firm parliamentarians,” suspecting some hostile design, entered the town with their forces,
and beat to arms. His lordship quitted the repast to muster the 400 troops by which he was attended,
and a skirmish ensued, in which Richard Percivall, a linen-weaver, of the neighbouring village of
Kirkmanshulme, was killed by the royalists; and the death of this man formed a prominent feature in the
impeachment against his lordship, voted by parliament, on the 14th of September in the same year. While
the impeachment was pending in parliament, and at the moment when a proclamation was issued, dated
16th September, in the county of Lancaster, commanding all sheriffs and others his majesty's subjects to
1 Commons Journal, vol. 0, fo. 629, 689, 690. * Letter to parliament, signed Ralph Ashton, John Moore, and John Rigby.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 43arish. 319
apprehend the said Lord Strange, and to bring him up to parliament, his lordship was making preparations
for an attack upon Manchester, “the very London,” as Arthur Trevor calls it, “of these parts; the liver
that sends blood into all the country thereabouts.” Up to the period of the civil wars this town was
perfectly open and without defence, but in the summer of the year 1642 a species of fortification was
formed under the direction of Lieutenant-Colonel John Rosworm, a German engineer, consisting of posts and
chains, to which was added a mud-formed barricade at the end of each of the streets. This officer was a
kind of military stipendiary, who on the approach of the troubles in England came over to Manchester, and
tendered his services to the parliamentary party. The value of these services, however boastfully he may
have written upon them in his “Complaint,” he certainly did not overrate in pecuniary value, as it appears
that he entered into an engagement to construct and superintend the fortifications in Manchester for £30, of
which sum the following gentlemen guaranteed the payment:—Richard Heyricke, warden; William Radcliffe,
Bic. Howarth, Rowland Hunt, William Dean, John Hartley, John Gaskell, Edward Holbrook, Roger
Worthington, Richard Meare, Henry Bradshawe, Tho. Lancashire, Richard Lomax, Thomas Minshull, Edward
Johnson, Lawrence Owen, Robert Lever, Nich. Hawet, Thomas Ellinworth, Mich. Buxton, "Raph. Wallin,
Hugh H. Williams. In the parliamentary publications of the day, Manchester is represented as “a zealous
and godly place,” and held out as an example to others. In Lancashire and in Yorkshire, it is said, there
are more papists than in all England besides, and yet God hath most admirably shown his power, by a
handful of men in each of these shires, supporting the gospel, and the growth of the Protestant religion,”
against the commissioners of array, and their forces. In this warfare, the train bands of Manchester were
the most distinguished, and in the lampoons of the day we find Pym inquiring—
- “But whats the business in the house to-day !
How speaks my notes? Coffission of Array.
The monstrous propositions to be scann’d
A second tyme : Manchester's Train Band
I doe conceive it must be our first play,
(Be it right or wrong) by votes to damme th’ array :
If ever that take footing and advance,
|Farewell Militia and our Alliance.””
The king, having raised the royal standard at Nottingham, proceeded through Derby by way of
Shrewsbury to Chester, in which city he arrived on the 23d of September, with an army consisting of 6000
foot, 3000 horse, and 1500 dragoons. Here the attack upon Manchester was finally resolved upon, and
Lord Strange was ordered to proceed to this place, and to carry the town by force, if his entrance was
resisted. This event had been foreseen by the parliamentary party, and the command of the forces in
Manchester was given to the deputy-lieutenants, to Captain Bradshaw and Captain Radcliff, aided by
Lieutenant-Colonel Rosworm the German engineer.
On the night of Saturday the 24th of September 1642, certain intelligence arrived that a large force
was advancing to besiege the town from Warrington, headed by Lord Strange, aided by Lord Molyneux;
and about midday on Sunday the 25th the troops were seen defiling on both banks of the Irwell. The
besieging force consisted of 4000 foot, seven pieces of cannon, 200 dragoons, and 100 light horse ; and the
main body took up a position on the south side of the river in the grounds of Sir Edward Mosley, the lodge
in Aldport Park affording headquarters to Lord Strange. The other division took possession of Salford, the
inhabitants of that place being favourably disposed to the royal party. His lordship lost no time in sum-
moning the town to surrender in the king's name ; but the garrison refused to obey the mandate. On
Monday, September 26th, another summons was sent with no better success; “whereupon,” says the “genuine
narrative” in Fairfax's Memoirs—
“The earl of Derby began to play with his cannon about twelve o'clock upon Deansgate and Salford bridge ; and this afternoon
the battle was hot on both sides ; most of the town's-men constantly charged and discharged most resolutely, to the great admiration
and terror of the enemy. While the battle raged, a number of soldiers were despatched by Lord Strange to set fire to two barns
which stood near the end of Deansgate (then extending only to the end of Back King Street), and the flames burst forth with so
much fury, that, had not the wind changed at that critical moment, it is probable that the town would have been reduced to ashes.
A shout of ‘The town is ours the town is ours l’ was now now set up by the assailants, but, by the valour and energy of Captain
Bradshaw and his band of militia, they were beaten back, and many of them slain in the assault.”
Simultaneously with this operation, the forces that were in Salford endeavoured to carry the bridge, but
they were resisted by Lieutenant-Colonel Rosworm, who maintained his post against repeated attacks made upon
him, though his whole force consisted but of thirty musketeers, and his only breastwork was a chain which
passed across the bridge. On Tuesday, September 27, the attacks upon the town were renewed, and
directed principally against the head of Market Street Lane, then extending only to Spring Gardens; and
against the bridge where so gallant a resistance had already been made with a strength so inconsiderable.
“The enemy plaid upon us,” says Rosworm, “with his great pieces, which making a strange noise, and pro-
* Trevor's letter to the marquis of Ormond, December 1642, in John Moore, esq., members of parliament ; and Mr. Richard
Carte's Collection of Original Letters, etc. i. 15, 16. Holland of Heaton, Mr. Egerton of Shawe, Mr. Hyde of Denton
2 Jehovah, Jireh. 3 Harl. MSS. cod. 393. Mr. Holcroft of Holcroft, and Mr. Booth, son of Sir George Bootl
* Consisting of Sir Thomas Stanley, Ralph Assheton, esq., and of Dunham.
320 Çiſe £istory of 3Lancashire,
ducing a great terror to my raw troops, sixteen of them took to their heels; and the rest, some from fear of
my drawn Sword, and others out of gallantry, resolving rather to die than to forsake me, stood to their posts,
and secured the Safety of the town.” The attack on the head of Market Street Lane was equally unsuccessful;
and the besieged, obtaining confidence from the failure of the enemy's attacks, made a desperate Sally, and
brought in several prisoners. That evening Lord Strange sounded a parley, and a written message was sent
into the town, expressed in the following terms:–
“In obedience to his Majestie's commands I have drawne some forces hither, with no intention of prejudice to your towne, or any
person in it ; but require your ready obedience to his Majestie in yeelding yourselves dutifully and cheerefully to his protection ; which
I Once more (S0 great is the value I set upon the effusion of one drop of my Countrie's blood), summon you too, under this assurance,
that no man's person or goods shall be harmed, so as you give up your arms to be disposed of by me, according to his Majestie's commands.
But, if you shall yet continue obstinate in your disobedience, and resolve to stand it out, I will in that way proceed with all honour, by
offering you a Safe convey of your women and children out of the Towne, so as it may be done immediately.”
On Wednesday, September 28, at ten o'clock, the following answer was returned by the gentlemen of
the town –
“May it please your honour to receive this answer to your Propositions. Wee are not conscious to our selves of any act committed
by us, that you should in the least kinde divest us, his Majestie's Loyall Subjects, of his royall protection, nor of any disobedience of his
Majestie's Lawfull Commands; for we can no way perSwade ourselves that his Majestie, who hath so often and so solemnly declared to
rule his people by his Lawes, and to preserve the propertie of our estates, should now require us to give away our Arms, which are
(under God) One meanes of our lawful defence against malignant enemies, and multitudes of bloody Papists, which do abound in our
County ; and had not God, by his infinite mercie, prevented, had, ere this day, made the like Rebellion in our Countery, and committed
the like barbarous outrages against us and all others of the true Protestant Religion, as their bloody brethren have done in Ireland, seeing
they are actuated by the same hellish Principles as they. And we cannot but much wonder, that your honour should come against us in
Such an open hostile manner to take away our Armes, which is so absolutely against all Law, and the right of the subject, which we are
bound and faithfully resolved to maintain, according to our late solemn Protestation. And we can by no means be assured of the safety
of Our persons and goods if we deliver up our Armes, seeing, since this Treaty, some of our neighbours' houses, being Protestants, have
been plundered, or attempted to be plundered, and some of our friends, coming in a peaceable way to our relief, have been cruelly
murthered and slain by some of your soldiers.”
The intrepidity of this reply lowered the demands of the besiegers, and Sir John Mountain was sent to
say that Lord Strange would be content with a part of their arms. This second offer the gentlemen in the
town referred to the soldiers, who declared—“That they would not surrender even a yard of match, but
would maintain their cause and their arms to the last drop of their blood.” Negotiation having thus failed,
the cannonading was renewed, but with so little effect as to kill only a boy who stood upon a stile gazing
upon the hostile scenes by which he was surrounded. On Thursday, September 29, Captain Standish, one
of the officers under the command of Lord Strange, was killed by a bullet from the town, while he was urging
his reluctant troops to renew the attack upon the bridge. The loss of their captain panic-struck the troops,
and they fled by hundreds from the royal standard. On Friday, September 30, the attack was renewed on
the side of Deansgate and on the bridge, but in a manner too feeble to afford any hopes of success. This
day, as on every other day of the siege, the soldiers of the garrison had prayers and psalm-singing at the ends
of the streets; and their holy zeal seemed so much to inflame their military ardour, that they went as
merrily to meet the enemy in the hottest skirmishes as to a feast. The death of William, earl of Derby, at this
juncture (September 29), and a summons from the king addressed to Lord Strange (now elevated to the earldom)
to join him with all his force at Shrewsbury, determined his lordship to raise the siege of Manchester. The
same night the cannon were removed from before the town; and on the following day (Saturday, October 1),
an exchange of prisoners took place. According to the “Genuine Account,” the garrison of Manchester lost
only four men during the siege ; while the royalists, in addition to the loss of military reputation from the
failure of their enterprise, lost 200 men, amongst whom were several officers, whose remains were interred in
the churchyard at Didsbury." The loss of four of the townsmen, after a seige of a week's continuance, with
1. The following is a species of official despatch, communicated
by Mr. Thomas Hawkins, an eye-witness of the siege of Manchester,
to a member of the House of Commons, (Mr. Erbie), and read in that
assembly on the 4th of October 1642 :—
Sonday the 25 of September [1642].
“This day in the Evening the Lord Strange, Lord Rivers, Sir
Gilbert Gerrat, and about 3000 Souldiers under their command,
came before our town, and placed themselves in battle array against
the same, but that night attempted no assault against the towne,
onely preparing themselves in readinesse, and ordering their army
against the next morning. On MONDAY morning about sixe of the
clocke, they made an assault against the town, and let shot and
bullets fly with great eagernesse, and seeming courage, the L. Strange
animating his Souldiers on with many plausible speeches, and great
shewes of courage in himself, upon which we in the town addressed
ourselves, to defend ourselves and offend our enemies, and sending
out of the towne on that side where none of their Army were, some
of our men to give notice to the Inhabitants of the County, desiring
their speedy aid, who with much cheerfulnesse well provided of armes
came unto us, and by 7 of the clock at night, wee were in number
equall to our Adversaries : in the meantime before they came in we
discharged our parts as well as we were able against the said Lord and
his forces, with Such courage, as they gained not possession of any
part of our Town, nor slew any of our men, neither are we certain
of the slaughter of any of them. Towards Evening the L. Strange
divided his army, but no cessation of shot in the mean time on
either side. Then the Lord Rivers, with about eight hundred men,
assaulted SALFORD on the other side of the water, and before the
morning possessed himself of the village, being accounted the
suburbs of our town, and rifled the houses of all the Inhabitants,
who were forced to fly from their cruelty. Wee had the disadvantage
of other towns, having no vales [walls] nor convenient place to plant
any ordnance if we had any, but wee having none did defend
ourselves only with muskets playing each to other all night without
ceasing, and yet thankes be to God, without any dammage on our
part. On TUESDAY morning the Tord Strange sent a message to the
Towne, desiring a Parley, at which he desired a Cessation of Arms
for 7 hours; which was granted, pretending he would come to
honourable conditions of Peace. But most perfidiously in the time
of Cessation, suffered his Souldiers to plunder and pillage the coun-
tries, and two or three Gentlemen's houses of good worth and credit,
and very godly men, and seized upon a great house near the town,
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamriješter #arisiſ. 321
the aid of cannon, says more for the forbearance than for the military skill of the earl of Derby and his
troops; and the number is so small as scarcely to admit of belief.
To prevent future surprise, it was determined to enlarge and to complete the fortifications of the town,
which were now made to assume a formidable appearance, and parliament directed that the committee for
the defence of the kingdom should expedite the levies of dragoons to serve in Manchester and its neighbourhood.
In order to indemnify the inhabitants of Manchester, and other places in the county of Lancaster, for the
excessive charges to which they had been exposed in resisting the commissioners of array and other
“malignants,” and to supply them with money for future services, it was further ordained by parliament
that a loan should be made in their favour, and that the money and plate advanced for their use should bear
an interest of eight pounds per cent per annum, payable by government ; but, as these arrangements could
not be immediately effected, it was ordained that the engineers and officers of the several companies lying in
garrison at Manchester, should in the meantime have their pay, according to their places of command, paid
them out of the estates of the delinquents." At the same time, a public thanksgiving to God for his gracious
deliverance of Manchester was ordered by the Commons to be observed in all churches and chapels in
Lancashire, and this order was published in all the market-towns of the county-palatine. The head-quarters
of the parliamentary army in Lancashire now became permanently established at Manchester, and on the
12th of January 1643 Sir Thomas Fairfax marched from Yorkshire into this town. From hence he
despatched an expedition under the command of Sir John Seaton, a major-general of the parliamentary
forces, against Preston and Lancaster, both of which places were surrendered into his hands, and Warrington
and Wigan were afterwards added to the number of the conquests of the Manchestrians.
Manchester was now threatened with an army from the east, much more formidable than any by which
it had been hitherto assailed. Bradford having surrendered to the earl of Newcastle, at the head of an army
of 10,000 or 12,000 men, the earl despatched a messenger to Manchester with a summons and declaration
expressed in these terms — -
“SUMMONS OF THE EARL OF NEWCASTLE.
“I presume you are not ignorant of the successe it hath pleased Almighty God to give unto his Majesties Army under my Command,
and the great desire I have to avoyd the effusion of Christian bloud, which moves me before I proceed any further towards you, to make
you an Offer of his Majesties Grace and Mercy, if you will submit yourselves, lay dowme your Armes, so unjustly taken up in contempt of
upon which he caused to be planted two pieces of Ordnance to shoot
to the Towne, and about three of the clock in the afternoon the said
Lord sent his Propositions of Peace to the town, to wit—“I. That
they in the town should be disarmed, and delivered into the custody
of the said Lord Strange. II. That he with his Army might have
free passage through the towne, which if they would grant, no
prejudice or injury by him nor any of his Souldiers should be offered
either to the persons or goods of any of the Townesmen, but wee
refusing the same, he would then continue his siege and dailey
assault with all the force he could.” Upon which answer was re-
turned, Wee would in no wise grant his demands, nor any other
Propositions he should make, for he had violated his promise in the
time of their cessation, contrary to the Law of Arms, upon which he
commanded again to renew the fight, discharging his ordnance as
fast as might be. In this fight were slain Sir Gilbert Gerrat, and
about 100 of his men, and 18 taken prisoners, and brought into our
town ; still the exchange of shot continuing all or most part of the
night, not. One of our souldiers slain, onely one man unarmed. On
WEDNESDAY morning the fight began afresh, and about twelve of
the clock, about fourescore of our men issued out of the town to the
adversary, with whom we had a sharp battell continuing for the
Space of 3 hours, but in the end the enemy gave back, and began
to retreat : in this skirmish we slew of the Malignants 30 persons,
and took 25 prisoners or thereabouts; then both sides in the main
body of the Armyes ceased fighting, most part of the night. Of
them that were slain in the skirmish was one Captain Stowell, but
no other of note. On THURSDAY the fight began again, our men
keeping the town, and shooting from the same, till about ten of
the clock, then we sallyed out about 1500 in compleat order,
and gave the enemy full battaile, which with good courage they
continued about four hours. At length their Souldiers began
to run away, and grow weary of the fight; then they sounded a
retreate for that time; till the next day. This day were slain of
the Malignant Party about 30 persons more and about 15 taken
prisoners. On FRIDAY the fight again began, and then the Lord
Strange commanded their ordnance to be charged with small bullets,
to the end to scatter amongst us, but praised be God none of our
our side, the souldiers of the camp still running away in great
numbers, being almost wearied, we sounded a retreat for that Inight,
which the Lord Strange and his souldiers were right glad of, not
offering the least assault that night. This day were slain of their
side not above ten persons, as we can know for certain, and about
ten more taken prisoners. None yet, through the providence and
great mercy of God, is slain on our part, Omely in Our retreat by
misfortune 3 of our men were slain by our own souldiers shooting
from the towne. On SATTERDAY morning the Lord Strange again
sent a message to the town for a cessation for two dayes, and in the
meane time to have a treaty for peace. But we conceive that this
was but to delay time, thereby thinking to have new Supplyes, and
to effect some stratagem against our town; we refused this request,
and again sallyed out of the town with about 2000 of our men,
which they perceiving began to discharge, still their souldiers de-
clining, but yet their main body standing stoutly to it, and after
being weary, and powder being scarce, a retreat was on both sides
sounded, and a Cessation agreed uppon till Monday morning. This
day were slain of the Malignants about 10 or 12, and 18 taken
prisoners. After we were again in the town we refreshed ourselves
as well as might be, and afterwards fell into examination of the
prisoners we had taken, being in all about 80, and the number that
were slain about 100 ; some report 200, some more ; but I assure
you, Sir, this is the truth as neere as I can learn. Upon examina-
tion of our prisoners, they said they fought against us with Small
courage, and did not well understand the cause for which they
fought. Thus, Sir, you have heard our sure yet troublesome pro-
ceedings of seven nights and sixe dayes with the Malignants. I
would entreat you, when you have read these lines, to present them
to some other Members of the House of Commons, or to the whole
House sitting, that you would understand the cause why our town
and county (as much aymed at by the Malignant Party as any)
more then all other counties of the kingdome, are out of their pro-
tection, but put to defend ourselves the weakest of any.
“Yours ever to be commanded,
“THO. HAWKINS.”
“Manchester, October 2.” [1642.]
[From the King's Collection in the British Museum, No. 77.]
side were yet slain. We issued not out of the town this day till
about 2 of the clock, and then marched out 2000 of us, with good
hopes to have ended the siege, and routed our enemies; but it fell
out contrary: after about 2 or 3 hours fight with much courage on
1 Commons' Journal, 1642.
2 T
322 (ſiſt #istory ºf 3Lancashire,
the lawes of this Kingdome, and immediately returne to your due Allegiance. His Majesty is gratiously pleased to authorize me to receive
you into His Favour and Protection, which I am as willing to do as to inforce your obedience. If you will Refuse, I cannot but wonder,
while you fight against the King and his Authority, you should so boldly offer to Professe your selves for King and Parliament, and most
ignominously scandalize this Army with the title of Papists, when we venture our Lives and Fortunes for the true Protestant Religion
established in this Kingdome : Be no longer deceived, for the bloud that shall be shed in this quarter will assuredly fall on your own
Heads; I have no other ends in this, but to let you see your error, for my condition is such that I need not court you. Let me receive
your answers by this Messenger, and you may expect to find little favour (if you force my nature) but such as is due to so high Contem-
ners of his Majesties Grace and Favour, now offered to you by - W. NEWCASTLE.”
“Bradford, 6th July, 1643.”
To which summons the inhabitants returned the following answer:-
“ MANCHESTER'S ANSWER,
“Right Honourable—It hath been ever since the first fomenting of the unhappy differences in this kingdom, and so shall be our princi-
pall care and endeavour to preserve the true Protestant Religion by Laws established in this Realm, the Honour of the King in all Regall
Rights, and Prerogatives, and Priviledges of Parliament, and the true and Native Liberties and Priviledges of the Subject by Law
established : And then it is not to be wondered at that, having been oppressed by Papists and other Malignants, we have by defensive
Arms laboured to repell such as by Colour of His Majesties Commission, have endeavoured to overthrow Religion, His Majesties Regall
Rights, and Honour, with all the immunities of this Kingdom, in the preservation whereof his Majesties noble Progenitors have so long
and honourably flourished. By which we hope it is apparent to all indifferent, judicious, and religious people that we have not put
ourselves out of His Majesty's protection, nor can it possibly enter into our understanding that the true Protestant Religion can be
intended to be defended by so great a Company of Papists as have been, and now are, in Arms under such protection : Nor the property
of the Subject, by so many Aliens and other Malefactors as daily resort unto them : And we Could wish so honourable a person as
yourself might be separated and freed from protecting such delinquents. Sir, we are nothing dismayed at your force, but hope that God,
who hath been our protector hitherto, will so direct our just Army that we shall be able to return the violence intended into their bosomes
that shall assay the prosecution of it, which shall be the endeavour of His Majesties most humble and Obedient Subjects.
“Dated 7th July 1643.”
This resolute answer indisposed the earl of Newcastle to advance into Lancashire, and, taking the route
to Hull in pursuit of General Sir Thomas Fairfax, his operations were confined during the summer of that
year to the county of York. In the course of 1643 the solemn league and covenant, between Scotland and
England, was submitted to the puritans of Manchester; and warden Richard Heyricke of the Collegiate
Church was amongst the first to subscribe the engagement, which bound its recipients to exert their utmost
efforts to reform the Protestant religion in England, agreeable to the word of God and the example of
the best reformed churches; to extirpate papacy, prelacy, Superstition, heresy, Schism, and profaneness,
and whatever should be found contrary to sound doctrine and the power of godliness. The decided
adherence of the people of Manchester to the cause of the parliament was a theme of general observation
amongst their friends, who did not hesitate to declare, “that had not this town stood very firmly to the
king and parliament, the whole country would, in all probability, have been brought into subjection to the
oppression and violence of the cavaliers; but they standing firm and constant to the cause they had under-
taken, it pleased God to give them many great and marvellous victories over his and their enemies.”
The war was prosecuted with great vigour in Lancashire during 1644, but, although Prince Rupert spent
nearly a month in the siege of Tiverpool, and although that officer was in the vicinity of Manchester, on his
march from Stockport to Bolton, he made no attempt to take this place by force of arms. According to Colonel
Rosworm, overtures were, however, made to him at the instance of the prince, by Lord Byron, to give up the
town by treachery.” After 1643 no military operation of any great consequence occurred in this place and,
though war raged around, the prosperity of the people of Manchester suffered very little further interruption
from this cause. In 1645 the town was again visited with the scourge of pestilence, and the number of
burials in Manchester increased from about two hundred, which was at that time the general average, to
upwards of twelve hundred. This visitation was so ruinous that parliament, on the 9th of July, directed
that £1000 should be appropriated to the relief of Manchester; and on the 9th of December the House of
Commons issued an ordinance, directing a collection to be made in all the churches and chapels of the
metropolis for the town of Manchester, which is described to have been for a long time “so sore visited by
the pestilence that none were for many months permitted either to come in or go out of the said town.”
The Rev. Adam Martindale, in his autobiography, speaking on this subject, says:—“Manchester was sadly
visited by the pestilence in the year 1645. So sore was the visitation that persons sickened and died in one
night ; public fasts were held at Blackley and other places in the neighbourhood, to intercede with God for a
deliverance of the people, and the markets of Manchester were for a time wholly discontinued.” Before the
end of the year the malady was stayed, and in the following year the burials were reduced from twelve
hundred to one hundred and forty-four. The disease was, however, far from being subdued in the country,
for between the 22d of June 1647 and the 14th of October in the same year, the burials in Chester amounted
to the almost incredible number of 1875."
It has already been seen that the form of church government throughout the country was now changed,
* Eastraordinary joyful Wews out of Lancashire. * MS. Life of Adam Martindale in British Museum, since printed
as vol. 4 of the Chetham Society’s series.
* Rosworm’s Complaint. * Harl. MSS. codex 1929, fo. 27.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 43arish. 323
and that Lancashire (in 1646) was divided into nine Presbyterical classes. The warden of Manchester,
Richard Heyricke, A.M., represented this county in the assembly of divines which met in Westminster," and
the same minister stood at the head of the classis which met for the first time at Preston in November 1646.
The sittings were afterwards transferred to Manchester, and were continued periodically during the existence
of the Commonwealth. In 1646 the committee of sequestration for the county of Lancaster assembled in
Manchester, when a number of the gentry of the county, supporters of the royal cause, compounded for their
forfeited estates by the payment of a specific sum into the treasury, amongst whom were the following
Manchester gentlemen —
£ S. d. - £ S. d.
Adkins, Nath., Broughton . e iº * ſº 31 0 0 | Pendleton, Henry, Manchester . g g g 80 0 0
Byrom, John, Salford . e g g º . 201 16 6 | Potter, Alex., Manchester . ſº e e º 4 5 0
Byrom, Edw., Salford tº e * º * 2 6 8 || Stanley, Ferdinando, Broughton . e * . 150 0 0
Bowker, Adam, Ditto g tº & e g 16 13 0 | Prestwich, Sir Thomas, and Thomas his son,
Bowker, Peter, Manchester * g & g I2 0 0 Hulme . g g g * ſº * . 330 0 0
Mosley, Nicholas, of Ancoats . º 9 . 170 0 0 || Rogerton, John, Manchester * g & g 4 18 4
Mosley, Francis, Collyhurst g & & . 200 0 0
The earl of Derby having as little disposition to compound as the sequestrators had to make terms with
his lordship, his estates were seized to supply the exigencies of the state; and Manchester College, which
had been in possession of the Stanley family ever since its dissolution in the first year of the reign of Edward
VI. was seized, and used partly as a magazine for the ammunition of the parliamentary forces, and partly as
a prison for the confinement of “delinquents.” The ancient chapel on Salford Bridge, built by Thomas del
Booth, was now also used as a prison, and continued to be appropriated to that purpose till it was taken
down under the improvement act of 1776, and the gaol on Hunt's Bank built to supply its place. In 1647,
George Fox, the founder of the sect called Quakers, began his public ministry, and the first place in which
he preached was Manchester.
The memorable battle of Preston was fought on the banks of the Ribble on the 16th August 1648.
The victory which ensued was the precursor of the establishment of the Commonwealth ; and an official
despatch, written in haste from the field of battle by Lieutenant-General Cromwell, “to the honourable the
committee of Lancashire, sitting at Manchester,” served to announce that victory. On the 30th January
1649 the unfortunate Charles was brought to the block, and on the 15th October 1651 the earl of Derby,
the most devoted of his subjects, shared the same fate, in the neighbouring town of Bolton. In 1649 it appears,
from the minutes of the Manchester classis, that an order was issued on the 21st of June for a thanksgiving
“for the abundant harvest, for the seasonableness of the weather, the safe and free return of the ministers of
religion; the late seasonable triumph God has given us over the Malignants in Scotland, and for preserving
these parts from infection, and preventing the raging of it in places where it is.” Two months afterwards
the same assembly ordained a public day of fast at Manchester, “in regard that the hand of God has fully
gone out against the inhabitants, in a violent fever and the small-pox.” In these ominous times we find Mr.
Hollinworth recording “ that on the 24th of February, there was observed by hundreds of people in the
Market Place, at Manchester, three parhelions, about ten of the clock before noon, which vanished away one
after another, so that at eleven o'clock none were seen.” Our author adds, “I saw two of them myself.”
Manchester soon began to recover from the effects of the civil wars; in the year 1650 its trade is described
by a contemporary writer, resident in the town, as inferior to few places in the kingdom ; and is said to consist
“chiefly in woollen frizes, fustians, sackcloths, mingled stuffs, caps, inkles, tapes, points, &c., whereby (says
he), not only the better sort of men are employed, but also the very children by their labour can maintain
themselves. There are besides all kinds of foreign merchandise bought and returned by the merchants of the
town, amounting to the sum of many thousand pounds weekly.” The town being now considered free from
danger, the inhabitants, in 1650, Surrendered up their arms by order of parliament to the governor of Liverpool,
and in 1652 the fortifications were dismantled; the walls erected by Rosworm the engineer, and subsequently
strengthened, were thrown down, and the gates sold and carried away.” Charles II., or as he was then
called, the king of the Scots, on his route from, the north, passed through Manchester in 1651, though his
army, under Duke Hamilton, marched by way of Preston to Warrington. The battle of Worcester, which
ensued, proved fatal to his hopes; and the gallantry, skill, and good fortune of Cromwell once more prevailed
in the overthrow of the royal army, and the subsequent capture of the ill-fated earl of Derby.
Although the barons of Manchester held seats by virtue of writs of summons in the upper house of
parliament, from 1 Edward I. (1273) to the reign of Queen Elizabeth, the town was never represented in the
commons house of parliament till the year 1654, when Cromwell, the lord protector, desirous of strengthening
his government, and Willing to stamp a dignity upon a town to which the Commonwealth was so much
indebted, issued a writ to the high sheriff of the county of Lancaster, requiring the burgesses of Manchester
1 The Rev. Charles Herle, rector of Winwick, and brother of * Historical and Descriptive Account of the Collegiate Church of
warden Herle, was also a member of the assembly of divines, and Manchester, 291.
held, by the appointment of parliament, the office of moderator. * Mancuniensis, fo. 29.
324 The history of Lancashire.
to return a member of parliament, without dictating as he had done in the case of the county member for
Lancashire in the preceding year, who that member should be. The right of suffrage was at this time very
restricted ; the elective franchise being confined to persons possessing estates of the value of £200 a year;
those who had borne arms against the parliament, as well as their sons, were prohibited from voting at the
elections. The inhabitants of Manchester duly obeyed the mandate of the protector, and the following
indenture, preserved in the archives of the newly enfranchised borough, serves at once to record the return, and
to show the principal parties by whom it was promoted:— •.
Hintenture.—“This indenture, made the nineteenth day of July in the year of Our Lord one thousand six hundred and fiftie four,
between Peter Boulde, Esquire, High Sheriffe of the countie of Lancaster, of the One parte, and John Hartley, esq., John Hartley, gent.,
John Gilliam, Alexander Greene, Edward Byrom, Henry Dickinson, William Jackson, Thomas Dickinson, Henry Nield, Robert Board-
man, Robert Fleetcroft, Robert Morler, Richard Halliwell, Robert Owen, James Ottiwell, Samuel Harmer, Arthur Buckley, John Broxupp,
Philip Stampe, John Whitworth, and Ralph Briddocke, gent., and Michael Buxton, James Lancashire, George Richardson, John Barlowe,
John Faulkener, John Ridings, Jonathan Gee, and John Ouldham, constables of the town and parish of Manchester, of the other parte,
witnesseth that, by virtue of a warrant unto the constables of the said towne of Manchester, and to the reste of the constables within the
parish of Manchester, aforesaid, and from the said High Sheriffe to them directed for the electing and choosing of one Burgesse of good
understanding, knowledge, and discretion, for causes concerning the publique good of this Commonwealth, to bee at his Highness parlia-
ment to bee houlden at Westminster the third day of September next, wee the said inhabitants there have made choice and election of
CHARLES WORSLEY, of the Platt, within the said parish of Manchester aforesaid, esquire, to bee Burgesse of the said towne and
parish of Manchester to attend the said parliament according to the tenor of the said warrant unto them the constables of the said towne,
and the rest of the constables of the said parish of Manchester directed in such behalfe, whoe for himself, and all the people of said town
and parish of Manchester aforesaid, hath full power to doe, and consent, unto those things which in the aforesaid parliament shall then,
and there, by comon counsell, and consent, happen to be ordayned; provided, and itt is hereby declared, that hee shall not have power to
alter the government, as it is now settled in One single person and a parliament. In witness whereof, wee the parties above named to
these presents interchangeably sett our hands and seals the day and yeare above written.”
(Signed) “PETER BOLD,” &c.
The Charles Worsley, the member for Manchester returned in this indenture, was the celebrated Major-
General Worsley, one of the most distinguished military officers in the service of the Commonwealth, who
held a commission for Lancashire, Cheshire, and Staffordshire, to keep under the cavaliers, to curb their
designs, and empty their purses." In the discharge of this duty he caused all that were either actually of
the king's party, or that were adhering to his cause, to enter into sureties to be peaceable, and not in any
way to attempt any thing contrary to the lord protector or the present government ; and all cavaliers that
had an estate personal of £1500, or a real estate of £100 yearly, to pay each year to the state, out of the
same, £10 for each £100 of annual income.” .
In 1656 another election for the borough of Manchester took place, on which occasion Richard Rad-
cliffe, of Manchester, was returned, as appears from the following indenture:–
intettute, “This Indenture made the twelveth day of August in the year of our Lord one thousand six hundred and fiftie-six,
Betweene John Starkie, esquire, Sheriffe of the County Palatyne of Lancaster, on the one parte, and John Radcliffe, esq., Rich". Holland,
Esq., Thomas Prestwich, Esq., James Lancashire, Henry Cookson, John Holbrook, Robert Owen, William Byrom, Roger Barlow,
Thurstan Digles, Alexander Radcliffe, Sam'. Bowker, Thomas Illingworth, John Moxon, Philip Stampe, John Faulkener, William
Faulkener, Nicholas Hawet, Robert Marler, Francis Jepson, John Salter, Thomas Beck, Thomas Smith, John Mosse, John Ouldfield,
Will”. Darbishire, Jas. Ottiwell, John Knight, Robt. Boardman, Anthy. Cook, John Gee, Robert Haulgh, Roger Gilbody, Rob". Hartley,
Geo. Tipping, Jo. Gee, John Johnson, Geo. Booth, William Rawlinson, Francis Wood, James Knight, Francis Worthington, Thomas
Williamson, John Chorlton, Geo. Hampson, John Mosse, Arthur Burkeley, Willm. Page, and William Heywood, Gentlemen, Burgesses
and Inhabitants of the Town and Parish of Manchester, the other parte, Witnesseth that by virtue of a warrant unto the Constables of
the Towne and Parish of Manchester, from the said High Sheriffe to them directed, for the electinge and choosinge of a Burgesse of good
understandinge, knowledge and discretion, for causes concerning the publique good of this commonwealth, to be at His Highnes
Parliament to be holden at Westminster on the seventeenth day of September next, Wee the said Burgesses and Inhabitants there have
made choice & eleccon of RICHARD RADCLIFFE, of Manchester aforesaid, esquire, to be Burgesse of the sº Towne & Parish of
Manchester, to attend att the said Parliament according to the tenor of the said Warrant unto the said Constables directed in that behalfe.
Who for himselfe, and all the people of the sº Towne & Parish hath full Power to doe & consent unto those things which in the
aforesaid Parliament shall then & there by common counsell & consent happen to be ordayned. Provided & it is hereby declared, that
he shall not have power to alter the Government as it is now settled in one single person, & a parliament. In Witnes, wee the parties
above named to these presents have interchangeably sett our hands, & seales, the day and yeare first aboue written—1656.
(Signed) “JOHN STARKEY,
“Sherife.”
The new member for Manchester was probably of the Radcliffe family, whose mansion was the lodge in
Poolfold (taken down in 1811). Captain Radcliffe, one of the commanders of the parliamentary troops in
the defence of Manchester at the siege, was no doubt of the same family, and possibly the same person. The
Radcliffes of Ordsall were loyalists, and one of them distinguished himself in the defence of Lathom House.
The confiscation of the lands of the Collegiate Church, in 1656, by the parliament of the Commonwealth,
and the preference given by that parliament to the Independents over the Presbyterians, converted Mr.
Heyricke, the warden, and Mr. Hollinworth, one of the fellows of the college, into decided enemies to the
existing government. This hostility was expressed so strongly, that Mr. Heyricke, Mr. Herle, Mr. Johnson,”
* For a memoir, a portrait, and a facsimile of the autograph of was hurried away to Lancaster (or Chester) Jayl, and stoned in the
this officer, see the Rev. John Booker's History of Birch, Chapel, streets of Manchester as he was carried along. The fellows who
vol. 47 of the Chetham Society's series (pp. 39-51).-H. seized him would not permit him to put on his boots ; but he was
2 Harl. MSS. Codex 1929, fo. 15. forced to twist whisps of straw or hay round his legs, to defend him
* “Richard Johnson was a pious, learned, and sober man. He from the dirt, and in this posture they mounted him on a poor,
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamriješter arisiſ. 325
Mr. Angier, Mr. Hollinworth, Mr. Harrison, Mr. Gee, Mr. Latham, Mr. Taylor, and Mr. Meeke, were
imprisoned. Mr. Heyricke, owing to the great interest which was made for him, with difficulty escaped
from a capital sentence, which was passed upon Christopher Love, Gibbons, and other Presbyterians. The
ministers and elders of Lancashire who had been seized, remained many weeks in painful suspense, but were
at length allowed, on paying serious fines, to return to their respective homes. Mr. Hollinworth died on
the 11th of November 1656, but whether his death was in any way occasioned by the rigorous treatment to
which he was exposed, does not appear.'
An important era in the history of religion and politics had now arrived; parties that had hitherto been
arrayed against each other in the bitterest hostility began to unite. The Independents and the Presbyterians
became dissatisfied with the Rump Parliament, collected under Richard Cromwell: they complained, that the
army having become rampant, had put down kingly government, abolished the House of Lords, and excluded
the most worthy members of the House of Commons; that divers of the ministers of the classis were hurried
about, and imprisoned at Liverpool and Ormskirk, not excepting even the peaceable Mr. Angier; that Mr.
Heyricke and Mr. Hollinworth were put upon pensions (if they could obtain them); and that the land, and
even the college itself, were sold to Mr. Wigan, who had become an Anti-paedobaptist, and had made a barn
into a chapel, where he and many of his persuasion preached.” Sir George Booth, one of the most distinguished
amongst the Lancashire and Cheshire Presbyterians, made an unsuccessful attempt to raise the royal standard,
and the Presbyterical classis of Lancashire favoured his design. To strengthen their cause, they made
overtures to the Independents, for the accommodation of their long-existing differences; and these propositions,
which ultimately led to the former community being merged in a considerable degree in the latter, were
discussed and agreed upon at Manchester in July 1659. The Presbyterians and Independents having
made common cause with the royalists, the Commonwealth was subverted, and Charles II, placed on the
throne of his ancestors. The hierarchy being restored, the classical assemblies of Lancashire were dissolved,
and the last of their meetings took place on the 14th of August 1660, after having existed fourteen years.
The day fixed for celebrating the coronation of Charles II. (23d April 1661) was observed in Manchester
with great enthusiasm; a splendid procession was formed of the inhabitants, at the head of whom were
placed Major John Byron, Nicholas Mosley, esq., Sir Ralph Ashton, and the principal authorities of the town.
The Reverend Richard Heyricke, warden of the Collegiate Church, preached; a sermon before such of the
inhabitants as could finid a place in that ample structure, in a strain of high eulogium on the restored
monarch ; largesses were given to the people to animate their loyalty, and claret ran down the conduit in
three separate streams."
ragged, little beast, not worth ten shillings. But their malice stopt
not here ; For they imprisoned his wife, and one Mr. John Charle-
ton, his Brother, in Manchester, because they would not confess
the future time, after like triall there shall be an imposition of
hands upon such as are to take the pastorall charge. V. That none
where Mr. Johnson had convey'd away his books and papers. He
lived to return with the King to his own, and afterwards preached
a most excellent sermon on Psalm czxix. 3, 4.”—Walker's Suf-
ferings of the Clergy, vol. ii. p. 88.
1 Hollinworth’s MS. “Mancuniensis, or an History of the Town
of Manchester” etc., having been frequently quoted and referred to,
it may be stated that the original MS. is in the Chetham Library,
that it was printed (with many errors and imperfections) in 1839;
and that it is one of the works proposed to be printed for the Chet-
ham Society.—H. -
* Martindale’s MS. Autobiog, chap. iv. sect. 13.−See vol. 4
of Chetham Society.
3 “Propositions for accommodation agreed upon by us, whose
names are subscribed, at a meeting in Manchester, July 13th, 1659.
I. We agree, that all persons that are admitted to the Sacrament of
the Lord’s Supper shall have these qualifications: 1. They shall
have a competent knowledge of the principles of religion, and be
sound in the faith. 2. They shall be such as live without Scandal.
3. Such as maintain the exercises of Christianity, viz. prayer in, and
instruction of, their families, reading the word, careful sanctification
of the Lord’s day, and the like knowne duties in Scripture ; according
to which rule (since the Reformation) we conceive we have walked
and (God assisting).do intend to continue so. II. It is further
agreed, that we hold communion in the Sacrament of the Lord's
Supper in each other's congregations, as there may be occasion upon
recommendation, or personal knowledge of such members of Our
congregations as may desire it. III. It is agreed, that if there have
beene any deviating or shall be for the future from the character
above-mentioned, the persons thereat offended having discharged
their owne duties, shall give notice to the churches that there may
be orderly proceeding therein against the parties offending. IV.
It is agreed, that such pastors as are qualified with suitable gifts
and graces for the ministry, and have had due triall and approba-
tion by preaching elders, shall be allowed of among us. And for
shall preach among us but such as are approved by preaching
officers (expectants excepted) and that we shall not disturbe each
others' congregations by imposing upon them preachers unordained,
and that we will use our endeavour that no offence be given by the
preaching of meer gifted brethren. VI. We also agree to preach
in each others' congregations, and to meet together for advice as
occasion may require. VII. And in case of offence, it is also
agreed that such matters be heard and determined by a meeting of
delegates equally chosen on both sides. VIII. We also agree that
we will lay to heart all our unnecessary distances and unbrotherly
carriages one towards another, engage in this accommodation in all
unfeigned love and steadfast resolution, pray one with and for
another, and lay aside to our utmost all words and carriages that
may violate or prejudice our Christian communition. IX. We con-
cur in these things our selves, and promise to cofiunicate the same
to others whom they may concerne, that so after our next meeting,
which is to be the fourth Thursday in September next, there may
be an acting according to this agreement. X. These things we
agree unto, reserving to our selves our owne principles.” Richard
Heyrick, Henry Rooth, Samuel Heaton, John Angier, John Harrison,
John Tildesley, Thomas Smallwood, Henry Newcome, Richard
Eaton, John Jaques, Joshua Stockport, Michael Bristoe, John
Jollie, James Jackson, Jeremy Marsden, William Colburn, Edmund
Richardson, Robert Birch, Robert Hyde, James Johnson, Thomas
Fiammond.”
4 May 7th 1661, “William Heawood, gentleman,” then Steward of
the manor, wrote to a kinsman a long descriptive account of “the
Manner of the Solemnitie of the Coronation of his most gracious
Majestie King Charles the Second, at Manchester” on the 23d
April 1661. This was privately printed at Manchester in 1841,–
4 copies on Vellum, 49 on Small and 23 on large paper. It was
first printed in Aston’s “Manchester Guide,” (1804).-H.
* Martindale’s MS. chap. iv. sect. 2 : see vol. 4 of Chetham Society.
326 ** Çür #istorg of £ancashire.
The Act of Uniformity, the Conventicle Act, and the Five Mile Act, opened the eyes of the non-conformists
of Manchester to the character of the new government under Charles II., and his intolerant chancellor, Lord
Clarendon. The revolution of 1688, which expelled the Stuarts from the throne, was therefore hailed by
this part of the community with less Ostentatious parade, but with much more sincerity than they had bestowed
upon the recent event of the Restoration. A change so considerable as that which was involved in the
elevation of William III. to the throne of England, necessarily gave rise to conspiracies, and the “Lancashire
Plot,” fostered in the heart of this county, called for a special assize, which was held in Manchester in 1694.
The catastrophe of that treason is already known ; the new monarch, founding his claims on the liberty and
affections of his people, remained firmly seated on his throne, while the principal conspirators were consigned
to their fate. -
About this time Dr. Richard Kuerden began to collect materials for his projected History of Lancashire;
in his MS. he describes Manchester as having been an ancient Roman garrison, and since the Norman
conquest a barony of the Gresleys, and afterwards of the De la Warres. *
“Manchester,” he adds, “is a fayre and spacious town, adorned with many streets, and a spacious market-place. It is
wattered and almost surrounded with specious rivers, as with that of the Irk upon the north, and partly on the east with the
Irwell, and upon the west with Medloc, and upon the south, and three miles from it, with the Mersey, the concurs of them all,
the boundary both of the parish of Manchester, and likewise of the county of Lancashire. The town is pleasantly situated, and,
as Mr. Camden Sayth, excelleth all the towns about it, and it is the fayrest and most populous in all the county, hath many streets,
and a spacious market-place; a church collegiate, with a Mr. Warden — and fellows, two chaplains, organ, singing-men and
chorister-boys, a colledgin it, with a sumpts library, and endo(wed) with a 100lb. per ann, for ever by Mr. — to replenish it
with books, in hope a preparative to become in time a future university, a hospital for poore children in blew coats, with a
mr. to instruct them, and other necessarys provided for them, and fitt them better for the service of the nation by mathematical
learning. Manchester is a fayre built towne, more citty like than any other town or borow in the county of Lancaster, being of
great antiquity amongst the Brigantes in the British time, and by them called Caer Manguid, as the learned and famous Archbishop
Usher of Armagh conjectures, and of the most antient coppys of Ninius, his catalogue of cities remaining in Brittaine.”
Some other observations are added in the same style, but those already given will suffice as a specimen
of Dr. Kuerden’s “Lancashire,” and as a description of the town of Manchester one hundred and fifty years
ago." The manners of the people of Manchester, at the end of the seventeenth century, have been graphically
portrayed by Dr. Aikin, in his description of the country round this place.
About the year 1690, the manufacturers and traders having accumulated capital, began to build modern brick houses in place
of those of wood and plaster, which had prevailed so generally since the former era of improvement, in the reign of Elizabeth. The
manufacturers, even those in an extensive line of business, who took apprentices from amongst the sons of the respectable families
in the neighbourhood, used to be in their warehouses before six o'clock in the morning, accompanied by their children of sufficient
age, and by their apprentices. At seven they returned to breakfast, which consisted of one large dish of water-porridge poured
into a bowl, at the side of which stood an equally capacious bason of milk, and the master and apprentices, each with a wooden
spoon in his hand, without loss of time, and without ceremony, dipped into the bowl, and then into the milk-bason ; and as soon
as the mess was finished they all returned to their work. Though our ancestors were watchful over the expenditure of the living,
there was a great deal of cost in the interment of the dead. In warden Wroe's time, these funeral expenses were carried to a great
extent; but the warden, by the exercise of his influence, prevailed upon the inhabitants to apply the money usually spent in this
way for the relief of the poor, and in some years there was a sum accumulated to the amount of nearly £800. Tea and coffee were
then special luxuries rarely introduced at the table ; in the domestic expenditure of a respectable family, where a household book
was regularly kept, there is, for the first time, a charge of ten shillings, in the year 1702, for these luxuries. The hour of dinner
was then twelve o’clock, at two in the afternoon the ladies went to visit, and returned in sufficient time to attend the service in the
Collegiate Church, which commenced at four. Carriages were then in little use ; none but persons of quality kept these vehicles;
and, as late as 1720, not more than four gentlemen's carriages were kept in Manchester and Salford.
In 1693, a prescriptive claim was set up by the lord of the manor, Oswald Mosley, esq. (probably to
reimburse himself for the losses which the fortunes of his family had sustained, by their adherence to the
royal cause during the troubles of the Commonwealth), to impose a duty of twopence per pack on all goods
called Manchester wares, sold within the manor (not saying within the markets) of Manchester; but this
attempt was defeated, on the ground that prescription to charge the subject ought to be founded on a benefit
or recompense to him, which could not be shown.” This was one of the last public events in the history of
Manchester, in the seventeenth century, and we are thus brought to the century of gigantic growth in
Lancashire and in Manchester.
1 Dr. Richard Kuerden's MS. collections for a History of Lanca- greater part of them has been transcribed in a clear handwriting by
shire consist of two vols. in the Chetham Library, Manchester, and the late Mr. John Palmer, whose six MS. vols. are in the same
several others in the Herald's College or College of Arms, London. Library.—H.
The two vols. in the Chetham Library (No. 6702) consist of one
thick folio vol. pp. 535, and One thick quarto vol. pp. 674. They * Warrington v. Mosley, 1 Holt 673, 674; and, from Modern
are written in a Small, Cramped and often illegible hand ; but the Reports, 319. S.
#timbrel of $alfort—ſºlantiješter 33arisiſ. 327
HISTORICAL ANNALS OF MANCHESTER FROM 1700 TO 1867: including the Rebellions of 1715 and 1745—The
Manchester Regiment and Sufferers—Canals–Corn and other Riots—Volunteers of 1808—“Peterloo,” August
1819–Population of Manchester at Various Periods—Bills of Mortality for each year, 1580-1832, and in
decades—Parliamentary Elections, 1832-1865–Anti-Corn Law seven years' Agitation—Art Treasures Ex-
hibition, 1857.
ºğLEVATED as Manchester is by wealth and population to the rank of the second city in
º § England, the subjects of its local history multiply on Our hands with so vast an accu-
tºº. º mulation, as we approach our own times, that it is impossible to treat them in detail,
§ without either passing over many public occurrences which demand attention, or exceeding
º the limits prescribed. We shall, therefore, in the period before us, comprehending the whole
tº:3:#4 of the eighteenth century, and more than half of the nineteenth, resort to the form of
Annals, leaving the history of the trade and manufactures to be treated in a more connected form hereafter.
A.D. 1708. St. Ann's church was built in a corn field, called Acres-field, in front of which the square
of the same name rose up a few years afterwards, along with the lower part of King-street and Ridge-field.
The patroness of this church was lady Ann Bland, sole daughter and heiress of Sir Edward Mosley, bart.,
and wife of Sir John Bland bart., of Kippax Park, in the county of York,' and of Hulme Hall, and Hough
End, Manchester. Lady Ann was at this period a distinguished supporter of all that was elegant in
manners and enterprising in public improvements; and from Sir John's residence at Hulme Hall, fashion
took its tone and liberality its spirit. The whole manor of Hulme was formerly included in the district of
Aldport. Hulme Hall, on the left banks of the Irwell, was at this time amongst the most stately residences
in the parish of Manchester; and here was deposited the Roman altar, dedicated to the goddess of Fortune,
found in the Castlefield.
1715. Great agitation existed in Manchester this year, in consequence of the rebellion which had for
its object to seat the Chevalier de St. George, son of James II., on the throne of England. The clergy of the
Collegiate Church were almost all of the pretender's party. Under the prevailing excitement, a Jacobite
mob, headed by Thomas Syddall, a peruke-maker, with the cry of “Down with the Presbyterians and the
Whigs—Sacheverel for ever !” pulled down the Presbyterian chapel in Acres-field, now Cross Street, then the
only dissenting chapel in Manchester. The firm attachment of the dissenters to the House of Hanover
brought upon them this outrage; but on the suppression of the rebellion the chapel was rebuilt at the cost
of the hundred. Syddall, with a number of his followers, was committed to Lancaster castle for the offence;
but liberated in sufficient time to join the rebels at Preston, where he was made prisoner, and being brought
to Manchester, was executed for high treason in this place on the 11th of February 1716, with William
Harris, Stephen Sagar, Joseph Porter, and John Finch.
1719. This year appeared the first Manchester newspaper, “The Manchester Weekly Journal,” printed and
sold by Roger Adams at the lower end of Smithy Door, price one penny. It existed for several years.
No. 325, dated March 15, 1725, was in the possession of the late Mr. John Yates of Bolton ; and it is believed
that Mr. Adams continued it for several years longer, before he removed to Chester, where he commenced
the Chester Courant. Reckoning backwards from No. 325, it seems probable that the Journal commenced on
the first Saturday in 1719.”
1720. Nothing has contributed more essentially to extend the trade and commerce, and to increase
the manufactures of Manchester, than the inland navigation for which Lancashire is famous, and of which
Manchester is one of the great centres of conflux. In this county, the canal system of modern times
originated with the Sankey Canal. The first expedient for improving and extending the inland navigation
was to deepen the rivers. By the assistance of the tide, which flowed with rapidity up the channel of the
Mersey, vessels were enabled, without any artificial means, to navigate as far as Bank Quay, near Warrington;
and to render the higher part of the river, through its communicating branch, the Irwell, accessible to vessels
as far as Manchester, was an improvement which could not fail to suggest itself to the mercantile and manu-
facturing classes both of Liverpool and Manchester. From the middle to the end of the last century, the
spirit of inland navigation was in a state of unexampled activity in this county, and Dr. Aikin, in his
1 The Bland family is of considerable antiquity, and was originally * For notices of this and other Manchester newspapers in the
seated at Bland Gill, in the county of York, from which Sir Thomas 18th century, see Mr. Harland's Collectanea (vol. ii. pp. 103, 105);
Bland removed, in the reign of Elizabeth, to Kippax Park. vol. 72 of the Chetham Society's Series.—H.




328 (The #istorg of £antagüirº.
“Description of the country from thirty to forty miles round Manchester,” published in 1795, has communicated
a considerable body of information, derived from Philips and others, upon this subject. In 1720, an act of
parliament was obtained, empowering certain persons in each town (but most of them resident in Manchester)
to make navigable the rivers Irwell and Mersey, from Liverpool to Manchester. This was effected by the
usual contrivances of wears, locks, etc.; and the very winding course of the rivers was in several places
corrected by cuts across the necks of the principal bends. This new and cheap communication between the
two towns of Manchester and Liverpool proved highly advantageous to them both. Subsequently, the pro-
prietors, who amounted to 5000 in number, cut a new canal from above Warrington, by which direct
communication vessels sail to Runcorn, and there drop again into the Mersey, thus avoiding the shallows and
banks of the broad part of the river Mersey; and instead of spending eleven days in the navigation, it is
now, when the tide serves, performed in a single day. Packets have also been established on these waters,
which sail daily.
1721. It appears from the post-office regulations, that at this time the posts, both to London and to the
north, departed from Manchester and returned to this place only three times a week. Eight days were then
required to effect the interchange of a post letter from London, which is now completed in twenty-four hours.
1724. Dr. Stukeley, in his “ITINERARIUM CURIOSUM,” published this year, describes Manchester, from
personal observation, as–
“The largest, most rich, populous, and busy village in England”—village in contradistinction to city. “There are,” says he,
“about 2400 families.” “Their trade,” adds Dr. Stukeley, “which is incredibly large, consists much in fustians, girth-webb,
tickings, tapes, etc., which are dispersed all over the kingdom, and to foreign parts. They have looms, which work twenty-four
laces at a time, which were stolen from the Dutch. There is a free school here, maintained by a mill upon the river, which raises
£100 per annum ”—(now the mill raises upwards of £1000 per annum). “On the same river, for the space of three miles upwards,
there are no less than sixty water-mills. The town stands chiefly on a rock, and across the river is another large town, called
Salthorp,” (Salford).
1729. The character of the people, at this time, is described to be “of a good sort, being pretty much of the old English
temper, hearty and sincere in their affections and expressions, given to hospitality; very kind and civil to their friends, but very
stiff and resolute against their enemies; well-disposed to religion, and very zealous in whatsoever they engage.” They were further
described as “strict observers of the Sabbath ; and liberal in their donations for the erection of churches; but, like the Athenians,
much inclined to hear and tell news.” “It is remarkable, that in all this large parish there was not one religious house,
monastery, priory, or nunnery, nor any considerable parcel of land given to such uses, save only the hermitage of Kersal, which
Edward II. gave and granted (or rather confirmed, it having been given or granted by his predecessors), to the monks of Lenton,
in Nottinghamshire, in pure and perpetual alms.”
The Exchange was built in 1729, at the charge of Sir Oswald Mosley, for the accommodation of the
merchants and manufacturers, whose skill, assiduity, and habits of business, combined with the advantageous
situation of the town for the free access of the raw materials, tended much to the general prosperity. As
the trade of the place was considerable, so were its riches.
“The inhabitants,” says our authority, “having been very industrious, and applied themselves closely to their respective
business, always contriving and inventing something new, to improve or set off their goods, and having not much followed the
extravagance that too much prevails in other places, as in dress, servants, equipage, wine, entertainments, etc., by these means
they have acquired very many of them very handsome fortunes, and live thereupon in a plain, useful, and regular manner, after
the custom of their forefathers; though it must be confessed, that of late they have departed rather too much, some of them
of the younger sort, from that simplicity, neatness, and frugality which their ancestors valued themselves for, and with very good
reason.”
1730. The annual races on Kersal Moor were established in this year. A long controversy arose on
the propriety of continuing or discontinuing the races in a large manufacturing town. Ashton Lever and
William Hulton, esqrs, advocated the races, which were opposed by Edmund Chetham, esq., John Byrom,
and Mrs. Ann Chetham, through whose exertions they were discontinued from 1745, the year of the rebellion,
to about 1750, when they were resumed with occasional intermissions, but they were regularly re-established
in 1760. Dr. Peploe, the warden, condemned the dancing assemblies of the town with as much severity as
Byrom censured the races; and his clergy were inhibited from attending the assembly, on the ground that
such levities did not become the clerical character. On the 22d December appeared the first number of
Whitworth's Manchester Gazeffe,
1731. The project of erecting a workhouse in Manchester for employing the poor, so much cherished
by Mr. Worsley in the reign of Elizabeth, was revived in the reign of George T.I., and was at first very
popular, partly from the hope that beneficial labour would be afforded to the unemployed, and partly from
the hope that the “poor-tax,” as it was then called, would be reduced. A number of the principal inhabitants
assembled, with the intention of devising the means of carrying this project into effect. At this meeting it
was resolved that a general subscription should be entered into throughout the town to defray the cost of
the erection and outfit, and that twenty-four guardians should be appointed for managing the house, eight of
them to be named by the Tories, eight by the Whigs, and the remainder by the Presbyterians. The high-
church party soon discovered, that by this management their ascendancy in the offices of the parish would
be lost; and under the influence of this apprehension, they opposed the bill which was brought into parlia-
1 Dr. Smith’s MS.
39 umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter arish. 329
ment for forming the guardians of the poor into a corporation. Dr. Peploe, the warden of Manchester and
the bishop of Chester, favoured the Whigs, and that their object might be effected, he undertook to present
their bill; but, through some oversight, a delay took place in introducing the measure into parliament, owing
to which it was defeated in the first session. The next session the application was resumed; but Sir Oswald
Mosley, of the Ancoats, himself a Whig, apprehending that his interest might be prejudiced as lord of the
manor, became hostile to the measure, and the bill was finally lost. In the meantime, Sir Oswald had caused
a large building to be erected for this purpose, near the Miller's Lane, which resulted in a great deal of litigation,
continued through six years, and in the guardians being called upon to pay their quota of the cost of the
building. In the controversies to which this project gave rise, Byrom took part on the side of the high-church
party ; and the exercise of his talents attracted to the object a more permanent notice than the scheme
itself might have deserved. This was considered a triumph over the bishop and the Whigs; and the Jacobite
party, already very strong, hailed it as the consummation of their victory in a strife originating as early as
the abdication of James II. -
1734. This year died in Manchester Lady Barbara Fitz-Roy, whose memory is preserved by the
following inscription in the choir of the Collegiate Church, on her gravestone, inlaid with brass plates, of which
the uppermost is ornamented with the arms of Charles II. with a baton sinister; the arms on a shield
lozenge. On each side the shield are emblems of mortality; a skull, cross bones, and a candle nearly burnt out :—
“LADY BARBARA. FITZROY, eldest daughter of the Most Noble Charles, Duke of Cleveland and Southampton, died January 4th,
1734.”
The lower plate has the arms of Dawson, and an-inscription as follows:—
“Here are deposited the remains of WILLIAM DAWSON, esq., who died on the 17th of August 1780, and in the 60th year of
his age. He desired to be buried with the above-named lady, not only to testify his gratitude to the memory of a kind benefactress,
altho' he never reaped any of those advantages from her bounty to his family, which she intended ; but because his fate was similar to
hers; for she was disowned by her mother, and he was disinherited by his father.” +
1735. By the collegiate charter, certain fines, or mulcts, were imposed upon the fellows of the college
when absent from duty; and Bishop Peploe, being himself a strict disciplinarian, rigorously enforced these
penalties, under the designation of absence-money, much to the discontent of the fellows. At a subsequent
period, the statutes were relaxed, and the fines ceased to be inflicted.
1737. In this year Mr. Robert Whitworth changed the title of his newspaper from the Manchester
Gazette to the “Manchester Magazine,” which was sold at the moderate price of three-halfpence, including the
stamp. The last number of this paper appeared March 25, 1760.
1738. The Lancashire Journal was published by John Berry at the Dial near the Cross, in Manchester.
Two of its numbers (penes Mr. Thomas Baker of Manchester), are respectively numbered 57 and 61, and
dated Monday July 30, and August 27, 1739. These dates and numbers show that No. 1 of this paper
appeared on Monday July 3, 1738. Nos. 57 and 61 were both four-page papers, but as No. 57 begins with
page 121, it could not have been a four-page paper from its commencement. Its size was a small folio, each
page containing three wide columns. Each number begins with a sort of scientific essay; gives the foreign
news under Monday’s, Friday's, and Sunday's posts; the London and the country news, etc., and each con-
tains only two advertisements. John Berry was a grocer, and kept a new tea-warehouse near the Cross in
the Market Place, in 1751, when he sold a Plan of Manchester of that year, price 6d. and 2d.
1739. The rising prosperity of Manchester became at this period a theme of general observation; and,
in the Daily Gazetteer, published in London, September 5, it is observed that—
“The happy improvements of the linen manufacture in Manchester, and those lately established here of paper, threads, tapes, and
many more minute articles, have lessened our importations from Holland and Germany considerably of late years. The manufac-
ture of cotton, mixed and plain, is arrived at so great perfection within these twenty years, that we not only make enough for our
consumption, but supply our colonies, and many of the nations of Europe. The benefits arising from this branch are such as to
enable the manufacturers of Manchester alone to lay out about £30,000 a year, for many years past, in additional buildings. It is
computed that 2000 new houses have been built in that industrious town within these twenty years.”
This, no doubt, is an exaggerated estimate, but is sufficiently indicative of the growing prosperity of the
place.
1742. The parish organ in the Collegiate Church was built in this year, and the roof of the choir was
decorated.
1745. A second attempt of the house of Stuart to regain the crown of England, made this year with
much more energy and with fairer prospects of success than that by which it was preceded, threw the whole
kingdom into a state of agitation; and in no place was the effect more powerful than in Manchester. The
* This gentleman, who seems to have been a beau of the old regard. They were the sons of a gentleman named Cooper, who
school, agreeably to his own request, was buried in a buffed shirt
and cravat, a night-cap of brown fur, a striped morning-gown (orange
and white), deep crimson-coloured silk waistcoat and breeches, white
silk stockings, and red morocco slippers. In his bosom was placed
a folded piece of white paper, which enclosed two locks of hair cut
from the heads of two boys, for whom Mr. Dawson had a great
was his steward, and with whom Mr. Dawson lived. To this person
he left his estate.
2 The adherents of the Stuarts in Manchester formed a strong
and influential body ; and it was the practice of a select party of
them to meet and dine at a small public-house near the village of
Didsbury : after the cloth was drawn, their custom was to intro-
2 U.
330
Ǻr £istory of £ancashire.
history of this rebellion has already been concisely given. After marching from Scotland, through Cumber-
land and Westmorland, at the head of an army of about six thousand men, prince Charles Edward, the
Pretender's son, and the reputed heir-apparent to the throne of England, entered the county of Lancaster,
on the 24th of November: when, taking the route of Lancaster and Preston, he proceeded by Way of Wigan
to Manchester. The expectation that the inhabitants in every place through which the rebel army passed,
would hail them as deliverers, and flock to their standard, had been deplorably disappointed. Their move-
ments, they began to conceive, had been too rapid for the public disposition in their favour to manifest itself;
here, therefore, they determined to make a halt, and to recruit their numbers by beat of drum. The avant
courier was a sergeant, accompanied by a drummer, with a sprightly girl in their train. This trio entered
Manchester on the 28th of November, and such was the public panic, or the general disaffection, that they
in reality surprised and carried the town. In less than an hour after their arrival, they began to beat up
for volunteers, and in the course of the afternoon of the same day they obtained thirty recruits, principally
non-jurors and Catholics, to each of whom a white cockade was given, and a bounty of five guineas promised.
About nine o'clock at night the vanguard arrived, consisting of about one hundred horsemen, who gave out
that quarters would be wanted for 10,000 troops. On the 29th, the main army reached Manchester, from
Wigan and Leigh, where they had halted for the night. About two o'clock in the afternoon of that day,
Prince Charles Edward" marched into Manchester, in a light plaid, belted with a blue Sash, and a blue
bonnet over a light wig, and a white rose in his cap. He took up his quarters in Market Street Lane, at the
residence of Mr. Dickenson, from that circumstance called “The Palace.” In the course of the day, King
James III. was formally proclaimed; the public crier was then sent round the town, to require that all
persons who had any duties to pay, or any public money in their hands, should pay the amount into the
hands of Secretary (Lord George) Murray, at the Palace, taking the receipt from this officer as their discharge.
As evening approached, the bellman was again despatched, to announce that there would that night be an
illumination, in honour of the arrival of the prince. The illuminations accordingly took place, bonfires were
made, and the bells rung joyfully, but the treasury was not much replenished till a peremptory demand was
made upon the inhabitants. Many of the communications at the head-quarters were made with the inter-
vention of a green silk curtain, which was suspended in the room of audience, and through which, it is said,
even the master of the house, from prudential motives, communicated with his guest without seeing him.
The boroughreeve, Jas. Waller of Ridgefield, esq., was made the reluctant organ for communicating the pro-
clamations of the rebel army to the people; but the Rev. Mr. Clayton celebrated, in strains of eloquence, in
the Collegiate Church, the arrival of the prince. A young clergyman, named Coppock, educated in the
grammar-school of Manchester, lately from the university, received the appointment of chaplain to the prince,
and subsequently aspired to the see of Carlisle. On the 30th November, the whole of the rebel army, with the
artillery and baggage, consisting of sixteen pieces of cannon, a number of covered waggons, and about one
hundred laden horses, were assembled in the town and neighbourhood of Manchester. The recruiting service
went on briskly; and from two to three hundred young men, chiefly of the lower class, were dignified with
the name of the “Manchester Regiment,” of which Francis Townley, esq., was appointed Colonel and com-
mander; the head-quarters being the Bull's-head, in the Market Place. Thomas Theodorus Deacon, Charles
Deacon, and Robert Deacon, sons of Dr. Deacon, a non-juring minister,” catching the contagion of disloyalty,
became officers in this corps; and George Fletcher, a linen-draper in Salford; James Dawson, of St. John's
College, Cambridge, son of Dr. Dawson of Manchester; and John Beswick, a linen-draper in Manchester,
were placed in the rank of captains. Thomas Chadwick, bred a tallow-chandler in Manchester, was ap-
pointed lieutenant ; and Thomas Syddall, the son of the peruke-maker who was executed at Manchester in
1716 for taking part in the rebellion of 1715, was appointed adjutant. Both officers and men wore white
cockades, and the authority of the colonel was indicated by the addition of a plaid sash. The other officers
had each a broadsword by his side and a brace of pistols in his girdle. Before the Manchester
regiment entered upon their campaign they had the honour to be reviewed by their prince, the young
chevalier; and Colonel Townley selected the Collegiate churchyard for the field of review. The contributions
levied upon the town amounted to £3000, and many of the horses within reach were put into requisition,
either to mount the cavalry or to convey the baggage. The conduct of the Highlanders was in some instances
duce a large bowl of water, which was placed in the middle of the
table, when every gentleman rose, and holding his charged glass
over the bowl, drank—“THE KING.” “This is not a toast that I
expected to be drunk here,” remarked a newly-introduced guest.
“Tush,” said his friend, “are we not drinking the king over the
water ?”
* This prince had visited Manchester the year before the rebellion,
and was entertained for several weeks at Ancoats Hall, the hospit-
able mansion of Sir Edward Mosley, bart. -
* The prince's aide-de-camp, says Mr. Ormerod, with a number
of other men, was quartered at Mr. Johnson's, (Mr. O.'s maternal
grandfather,) whose horses had been seized when in the act of being
removed, and with them a letter, describing the approaching party
as rebels, he was, in consequence, made prisoner in his own house,
and severely treated, but admitted to a large party of the officers,
who caroused there. King James was, of course, the first toast ;
and the host being asked next for his, had the temerity to give
“His Majesty, King George.” Some of the officers rose, and
touched their swords; but one of the seniors instantly exclaimed,
“He has drank our prince, why should not we drink his 2 Here's
to the Elector of Hanover.”
* The Doctor was at the head of a sect attached to the doctrine
of the divine right of kings, and presided over a religious body of
non-jurors calling themselves “The True British Catholic Church.”
#umbrel ºf $alfort-ſăantijegter 33arisiſ,
3.31
rapacious, wasteful, and offensive; but in general the troops conducted themselves with moderation, and the
behaviour of their officers was conciliatory, and even courteous. Before the rebel army quitted Manchester
for the south, the prince issued the following proclamation:"
“TO THE INHABITANTS OF MANCHESTER.
“HIs Roy AL HIGHNESs being informed that several bridges have been pulled down in this country, he has given orders to
repair them forthwith, particularly that at CROSSFORD ; which is to be done this night by his own troops, though his Royal
Highness does not propose to make use of it for his own army, but believes it will be of service to the country; and if any of the
forces that are with General Wade be coming this road, they may have the benefit of it.—Manchester, Nov. 30, 1745.”
On the 1st of December, the rebel army quitted Manchester, marching in two columns to the south, with
colours flying, on which were inscribed, “Liberty and Property,” “Church and King.” Several of the bridges
had been broken down by the Liverpool Blues, to impede their progress, as the proclamation indicated, and
they were obliged to construct rafts and temporary bridges, by cutting down trees. The artillery and horses
were taken over the Mersey at Cheadle ; and prince Charles Edward himself waded on foot, at the head of
his regiments, across that river, at Stockport, immersed to the middle in water. The two columns having
united at Macclesfield, the Manchester regiment was drawn up in the churchyard of that town, in order that
arms might be delivered to such as had not been previously provided with them. Some of the men seemed much
dispirited, and meditated desertion, but they were restrained by a sense of shame, and prevailed upon by their
townsmen to remain faithful to their prince.” Having passed through Leek, they reached Derby on the 4th of
December, preceded by an advanced party, with Lieutenant Thomas Theodorus Deacon at their head. The duke
of Cumberland being only a league from Derby, the rebel army was employed on the 5th in preparation for
battle, which was expected to take place on the following morning; and to increase their force, the drums
were Ordered to go round the town to beat up for recruits for the Manchester regiment. In the course of
the night a council of war was held, at which it was determined to retreat to the north, to avail themselves
of reinforcements newly arrived from France, and to avoid the danger with which they were menaced, of
being hemmed in between the armies of Marshal Wade and the duke of Cumberland. The retreat, much
against the inclination of the prince and his more sanguine adherents, commenced on the 6th ; and, taking
the route of Leek and Macclesfield, Colonel Townley's regiment arrived in Manchester, on the 8th. With a
view to impede the progress of the retreating army, the adherents of the house of Hanover sent the bellman
round the town, to Order all persons to provide pickaxes to hack up the roads, and to arm themselves with
weapons to assail the insurgents. At this summons large bodies of men from the country collected; but the
magistrates not wishing the town to become the seat of that sanguinary conflict which seemed to be
approaching, ordered the people to disperse. Pressed in the rear by the approach of the duke's advanced
guard, which was then at Macclesfield, the operations of the rebels admitted of no delay: their stay in
Manchester was therefore only for a single day ; but during that time they imposed a contribution of
#5000 upon the inhabitants, and actually levied one moiety of the sum under a threat of sacking the
town, if the money was not produced by mid-day on the 10th.” On the 10th the prince's forces reached
Wigan, considerably weakened by desertion from the Manchester regiment ; on the 11th they were at
Preston; on the 13th at Lancaster, where Lieutenant Chadwick endeavoured to inspirit his comrades by
ascending the organ gallery, and playing, “The King shall have his own again.” Proceeding from thence by
way of Kendal, they reached Carlisle on the 19th, with the duke of Cumberland's horse pressing upon their
rear. Here the main body of the pretender's army remained only one day, but, on his departure, the prince
left about 400 men in the garrison of Carlisle, consisting principally of Scotch forces and of the Manchester
regiment, assuring them that he would speedily send reinforcements to that city, to relieve the garrison. Two
days afterwards, the duke of Cumberland arrived before Carlisle, and commenced the siege. The garrison,
aware of the fate which awaited them if they were taken prisoners, made a gallant but unavailing defence.
The Liverpool Blues, and other regiments, arrived to swell the number of the besiegers, but the promised
reinforcements from Prince Charles Edward were looked for by the garrison in vain. On the 30th of
December, a white flag, suspended from the citadel by order of the governor John Hamilton, intimated the
wish of the garrison to capitulate on terms. To this intimation his royal highness the duke of Cumberland
replied that the only conditions he could grant to rebels were that they should not be put to the sword,
but reserved for the king's pleasure. Hard as were these conditions, the garrison was obliged to accept them
* This proclamation appears to have issued from the press of that the prisoner had run away in order to escape from the rebel
Robert Whitworth, though the printer's name, for sufficient reasons,
is not attached to it. James Bradbury, a workman in the office of
IMr. Whitworth, in his evidence given on the trial of the rebels, in
Tondon, the year following, deposed, that Captain Deacon, and
others, forced him, in the absence of his master, to print for the
rebels, several treasonable proclamations and other documents, of
which this was doubtless one.
* On the trial of John Hunter, an ensign in the Manchester
regiment, in the July following, Captain Were and others deposed,
army, but that he was overtaken and made to return on pain of
death ; and that the witness and the prisoner were tied together
with a rope to a horse's tail, and obliged to run many miles without
shoes, in great torment. . .
* Mr. James Bayley Sen., a gentleman between seventy and
eighty years of age, was seized as hostage, and only liberated on
condition that the money should be raised, and paid to Secretary
Murray, at the palace, in two hours.
332 (Iſiſt #istorg of £antagijire.
and in the course of the day Carlisle was surrendered to the king's troops. The Rev. Thomas Coppock, the
reputed bishop of Carlisle, was taken prisoner, along with the Manchester regiment, then reduced to one
hundred and fourteen men; and with so little ceremony was this dignitary treated, that he was brought to
trial at Carlisle, robed in his gown and cassock, and, being found guilty of high treason, he was drawn,
hanged, and quartered, in that city, on the 18th of October following. The officers of the Manchester
regiment were sent to London for trial, and their fate has already been recorded. After the execution, the
heads of Captain Thomas Deacon and Adjutant Syddall were brought down to Manchester, and stuck upon
the Exchange in this place, where they remained for about a week—execrated by many as a disgrace to their
town and county, and reverenced by others as martyrs. It is recorded of the father of Captain Deacon, that
he never afterwards passed the Exchange, where his son's head had been exhibited, without making a pro-
found obeisance; and some others of the more ardent of the Pretender's friends imitated his example. In
the whole of this romantic history, no incident is more striking than that commemorated by the pen of
Shenstone the poet ; Captain James Dawson was, it appears, betrothed to a young lady, who, impelled by
frenzy and despair, determined to accompany him to the scaffold. Summoning all her fortitude, she
witnessed his fate with a calm and steady eye, but the effort was more than human nature could sustain—
“The dismal scene was o'er and past,
The lover's mournful hearse retired ;
The maid drew back her languid head,
And, sighing forth his name, expired.”
James Bradshaw, a captain in the Manchester regiment, did not remain at Carlisle, but accompanied the
prince's forces on their retreat into Scotland, and fought in the decisive battle of Culloden ; the same fate,
however, awaited him which befel so many of his brother officers; being taken prisoner by the duke of
Cumberland, he was sent to London, where he was tried for high treason, and, being found guilty, was
executed on Kennington Common, on the 28th of November 1746.” The conservators of the king's peace
in Manchester did not escape censure for their conduct during the rebellion; and in the year 1747 the
constables, Messrs. Fowden and Ogden, were arraigned at Lancaster on a charge of high treason. This
charge, which was feebly supported, they had the good fortune to repel, by showing that any act performed
by them in favour of the Pretender was compulsory; and the jury, without any hesitation, pronounced an
honourable acquittal. The animosities produced by the insurrection of 1745 long outlived the rebellion
itself. The cry of “Down with the Rump”—“Down with the Hanoverians”—“Down with the Presby-
terians”—and then “Down with the King,” was for some time familiar in the streets of Manchester, and
was met with “Down with the Jacobites”—“Down with the Pretender.” But the term Jacobite, applied to
the advocates of the divine right of kings, was Superseded, in the party nomenclature of Manchester, by the
term Jacobin, introduced at the breaking out of the French revolution, and applied to the supporters of the
"majesty of the people. The distinction between the king and the Pretender made by Mr. Byrom in his poetic
equivoque was very prevalent in Manchester some years after the rebellion of 1745, each party choosing to
* The following is a copy of a paper published in Manchester, at
the beginning of the year 1746 —“A List of the English Men, who
Joined with the Scotch Islanders in the young Chevalier's Interest,
and surrendered themselves Prisoners the 30th of December 1745,
Andrew Simpson, Butcher
Mr. Addison Mr. Abernethy: Besides others
Sir John Halliburton to the number of about 450.”
Dr. Henry Salkeld
at Carlisle, to his Highness Prince William Duke of Cumberland,
whom God Preserve.
“Fran-s Townly, of Townly,
Collonel, Governour of the
TOWn
Captains as under, viz.
John Sanderson & Peter Mosse,
Draper
James Dawson, son to the
Apothecary
George Fletcher, Checkman
Andrew Blood & James Gad
Lieutenants as under, viz.
Thomas Theodorus Dekin
Robert Renatus Dekin
Charles Clement Dekin
John Beswick, Smallware Man
Thomas Furnival, Ditto
Thomas Chadwick, a Chandler's
SOIl
Mr. J. Holker, Laevigator
Charles Taylor
John Hunter & John Betts,
Organist
James Son to Mr. Weilding,
Scarlet Dyer
Samuel Maddock, Apothecary
Thomas Sidal, Barber
Volunteers as follows, viz. '
Reverend Mr. Coppock
John Coppock Junior, Taylor
Mr. Podmore
James Bradshaw, Barber
Alexander Low, White Smith
John Rowbotham, Weaver
Thomas Newton, Collier
John Jackson, Pavior
James Colling & Thomas Ogden
Wea, Wer
Roger Fulthorp, Barber
Inhabitants of Carlisle, as follows.
Joseph Bacchus, Mayor
Dr. Douglas
Francis Hewit, Merchant
John Creighton, Smith
Mr. Graham, Apothecary
The following list of Officers in the Manchester Regiment of 1745,
is copied from the Gentleman's Magazine :—
+ Francis Townley, Colonel, a younger brother of Townley.
ºf Thomas Deacon, Lieutenant-Colonel and Captain, son of Dr.
Deacon, Once a non-juring divine in Aldersgate Street, London.
+ John Barwick, Captain, linen-draper.
ºf James Dawson, Captain, a member of St. John's College, Cam-
|bridge.
John Sanderson, Captain.
* James Bradshaw, Captain.
-i. George Fletcher, Captain, linen-draper, Salford—gave £50 for his
Commission.
ºf Thomas Chadwick, Lieutenant, a tallow-chandler.
Thomas Syddal, Adjutant, a popish barber.
Charles Deacon, Ensign, a brother of Thomas Deacon.
John Hunter, Ensign (acquitted).
William Bretale, Ensign.
Thomas Furnival, () of Chester, Manchester warehouseman.
The above were tried July 3, 1746, and those marked ºf were
executed on Kennington Common, July 30. * Bradshaw was
tried September 3, and executed Nov. 28, 1746. -
* For many particulars as to the Lancashire history of this
rebellion see “The Civil War Tracts, 1642-1651,” edited by George
Ormerod, esq. (vol. 2 of the Chetham Society's series). Also the
late T)r. Hibbert-Ware’s “History of the Foundations of Man-
chester,” vol. ii.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlanthester 33arisiſ. 333
apply the term of dignity to the head of the royal house whose cause he espoused, and the term of reproach
to that he opposed:—
“God bless the King ! I mean our Faith's Defender.
God bless—no harm in blessing—the Pretender
But who that Pretender is, or who that King,
God bless us all, is quite another thing !”
1753. On the 22d of June, at midnight, the shock of an earthquake was felt in Manchester; the
tremulous motion of the earth continued for the space of a minute, and was accompanied by a noise
resembling the rushing of air into a vacuum. This earthquake was felt at Radcliffe and Oldham, and
extended both into Yorkshire and Cheshire.—In September an act of enormous atrocity was committed: a
man of the name of Grindret or Grindrod, residing in Salford, a woolcomber by trade, administered poison,
mixed in treacle and brimstone, to his wife and two children, with such fatal success as to occasion the death
of all of them. For this offence he was brought to trial at Lancaster, and being found guilty, he was
executed; after which his body was brought to Manchester and hung in chains on a gibbet at the end of
Cross Lane, near Windsor Bridge, where many persons now living (1835) remember to have seen the revolting
spectacle.—Till 1753 a claim was made by the warden and fellows of Manchester College upon the weavers
of that town, of fourpence per loom at Easter in every year, in lieu of the tithes on the clear yearly gains
and profits arising from their art in weaving. This demand was now resisted, and the court of assize at
Tancaster, before which the cause was tried, decided in favour of the weavers. The origin of this claim is not
well ascertained ; but it is alleged that in early times, when the town was surrounded by forests, the
privilege of cutting wood for fuel, and for the construction and repair of their looms, was granted by the
clergy to the weavers, and that this payment was an annual acknowledgment for that privilege, which had,
however, ceased long before the loom-tithe was abolished.—In this year twelve women of the town were led
through the streets “ tied together with a cord, like colts going to a fair;” and the vicious life of these
unfortunates was thought so great a scandal, that the editor of a public journal announced, that one of the
Women had disclosed the names of several of her visitors, and that he had it in contemplation to publish
them, for the correction of the growing vice.
1757. For four years in succession the price of the necessaries of life had been unusually high, and in
1757 the scarcity of provisions, both before and after the harvest, was so extreme as to produce riots and
insubordination amongst the labouring classes. One of the most serious of these riots took place in Shudehill
Market, on Tuesday the 6th of June, when the provisions brought by the farmers and dealers were seized by
the populace, and a considerable quantity of them destroyed. The near approach of harvest rendered the
people in some degree patient under their privations; but when that anxiously-looked-for period had arrived
and passed, without producing any material reduction in the price of corn, their patience became exhausted ;
and the corn-dealers, the huxters, and the millers were charged (such was the folly of the day) with
occasioning the high price of the necessaries of life. The rich as well as the poor joined in the popular cry
against these traduced classes. Sermons were preached, expatiating upon their cruelty and injustice ; the
periodical press sought favour from its readers by giving into the general delusion ; and the following
epigram, from the pen of Mr. Byrom, first published in 1737, and directed against the trustees or tenants of
“The School Corn-mills,” who, from their spare habits, were nicknamed Skin and Bone, was now
revived :-
“Bone and Skin, two Millers thin,
Would starve the town, or near it ;
But be it known to Skin, and Bone,
That Flesh and Blood can’t bear it.”
The natural effect of all this inflammation and distress was another riot, of a much more serious character
than that by which it was preceded. On Saturday the 15th of November a large body of men from Saddle-
worth, Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne, and other places, armed with implements of husbandry and other rustic
weapons, met on Newton Heath, and having destroyed a corn-mill belonging to Mr. Hawthorn, at Clayton,
about three miles from Manchester, they proceeded to the market-place upon Shude Hill, where they were
met and resisted by the high-sheriff, James Bayley, esq., attended by a number of the principal inhabitants on
horseback, supported by a party of soldiers. Rendered in some degree desperate by their necessities, and
deceived into the belief that the soldiers felt too much for their situation to fire upon them, the rioters
proceeded to acts of outrage; some of them seized the provisions in the market, while others pelted the
soldiers with stones with such violence, that one soldier was killed on the spot and nine others wounded.
Remonstrance and admonition having failed, the soldiers were ordered to fire, and a species of engagement
ensued, popularly called “Shude Hill Fight,” in which four of the rioters were killed (amongst whom was a
boy, who was shot in a tree), and fifteen wounded. This fatal example dispersed the mob, and restored the
public tranquillity, which was afterwards preserved by the firm but conciliatory conduct of the authorities of
the town, and by the charitable contributions of the benevolent for the relief of the distressed inhabitants.
1758. Those magnificent plans which have rendered the name of the duke of Bridgewater so celebrated
334 r (ſiſt #istory of £ancashire.
in the history of canal navigation, commenced in 1758 and 1759, when acts were passed enabling him, first,
to carry a canal from Worsley to Salford, and also to Hollin Ferry on the Irwell; and secondly, to deviate
from that course and carry his canal from Worsley across the river Irwell to Manchester, through the town-
ship of Stretford. This first undertaking was marked with those features of greatness which distinguished
all the works of that wonderful self-taught genius, James Brindley. At its upper extremity in Worsley it
buries itself in a hill, which it enters by an arched passage, partly bricked and partly formed by the solid
rock, wide enough for the admission of long flat-bottomed boats, of about seven or eight tons burden, which
are impelled by means of hand-rails on each side. This passage penetrates nearly three-quarters of a mile
before it reaches the first coal-works. It there divides into two channels, which have been extended in
Various directions to the length of nearly fifty miles. The arch at the entrance is about six feet wide, and
about five feet in height from the surface of the water, and it widens within so that in some places the boats
may pass each other. It was the principle of this, as it has been that of all Mr. Brindley's canals, to keep
on the level as much as possible, whence it has been necessary to carry them over the roads or streams upon
arches after the manner of an aqueduct, and to fill up valleys by artificial mounds for their conveyance, as
Well as to cut down or bore through hills. The most striking of all the aqueduct works is in this first canal,
Where it passes over the navigable river Irwell at Barton Bridge; the aqueduct being upwards of two hundred
yards across the river, which runs in a valley. Over the river itself it is conveyed by a stone bridge of great
strength and thickness, consisting of three arches, the centre one sixty-three feet wide and thirty-eight feet
above the surface of the water, admitting the largest barges navigating the Irwell to go through it with
masts and sails standing. The spectator is, therefore, here gratified with the extraordinary sight, never
before beheld in this country, of one vessel sailing over the top of another. This canal, after passing Barton
Bridge, was conveyed on the level, with great labour and expense, in a circuitous tract of nine miles to Castle
Field, adjacent to Manchester. But before this first design was completed, a much greater and more
important plan had opened itself to the duke, which was an extension of this canal by a branch that, running
through Cheshire parallel to the river Mersey, should at length terminate in that river below the limits of its
artificial navigation, and thus afford a new and rival water carriage from Manchester and its vicinity to
Liverpool. The execution of this bold idea was authorised by an act of parliament obtained in 1761, which
enabled the duke of Bridgewater to make a canal from Longford Bridge, in the township of Stretford, to the
river Mersey, at a place called the Hempstones, in the township of Halton. This canal, which is more than
twenty-nine miles in length to its termination at Runcorn Gap (a place preferred to the Hempstones on
accotint of the superior advantages which it offered in entering the mouth of the canal at neap-tides), was
finished in five years. It is carried across the Mersey by an aqueduct bridge, similar to that over the Irwell
at Barton, but lower, as the Mersey is not navigable in that part. When the duke of Bridgewater undertook
this great design, the price of carriage on the river navigation was twelve shillings the ton from Manchester
to Liverpool, while that of land-carriage was forty shillings the ton. The duke's charge on his canal was
limited to six shillings, and together with this vast superiority in cheapness it had all the speed and regularity
of land-carriage. A branch of useful and profitable carriage by water, hitherto scarcely known in England,
Was also undertaken, which was that of passengers. Boats, on the model of the Dutch treckschuyts, but
more agreeable and capacious, were set up, which, at very reasonable rates and with great convenience,
carried numbers of persons daily between Manchester and the principal places on the canal; and all these
objects of traffic on the new canal became more and more considerable with the increasing trade of Lancashire.
Under the sanction of an act of parliament passed in 1795, a branch was cut from the duke's canal at Worsley
to Leigh.
1759. An act passed by consent of the parties, freeing the inhabitants of Manchester from their obliga-
tion to grind corn at the School Mills, malt only excepted. In the same year the duke of Bridgewater's
Canal was completed.
1761. The coronations of James II., William and Mary, Queen Anne, and the first two sovereigns of
the Brunswick line passed over without any public processions in Manchester; but the coronation of George
III. (September 1761), under whose rule the town was destined to attain to a degree of wealth and prosperity
hitherto unexampled, was celebrated here with as much display of loyal attachment as was exhibited on the
restoration of Charles II. Processions, consisting of merchants, tradesmen, manufacturers, and artizans,
headed by the authorities of the town, paraded the principal streets in the manner of the Preston Guild
celebrations ; at night the town was brilliantly illuminated, and a ball was given at the Exchange Assembly
Rooms to upwards of seven hundred ladies and gentlemen."
1763. Uninstructed by the events of the year 1731, a project was this year formed for erecting Man-
chester into a borough, under the sanction of an act of parliament, or of a royal charter. The government of
the town under the new regime was to be confided to a certain number of the principal inhabitants, consisting
of one-third high churchmen, another third moderates, and the remainder protestant dissenters; and the
management of its parochial concerns was to be placed in the hands of this neutralized triumvirate. These
* * See the “Celebration of the Coronation of King George III. and his Queen at Manchester, Septr. 22, 1761,” privately printed, 1841.
#umbren of $alfort—ſianchester #arisiſ. 335
golden dreams were of short duration—an apprehension that the low party would monopolise all the authority
of the embryo borough dissolved the pleasing illusion; and for a number of years the triumph of that
Sagacity which foresaw and averted the impending danger was celebrated by an annual procession and feast
in the township of Chorlton-on-Medlock, familiarly called “the Chorlton Rant.”
During the reign of his majesty George III, as well as in that of his royal predecessor, the tranquillity
of the town of Manchester was several times disturbed by riotous assemblages of the populace, collected on
account of the high prices of the necessaries of life, under the delusive hope that the vengeance they
denounced against the growers and the dealers in corn would reduce the price of provisions. In July 1762
the colliers of Oldham and Saddleworth repaired to Manchester in great numbers, and, after demolishing the
warehouses of two or three of the corn-dealers, they obliged others to sell their stocks at a price which they
thought reasonable. The return of a season of scarcity collected fresh mobs, July 30, 1795, and the terror
produced by their presence was so great as to deter the farmers from coming to market, and thereby to
threaten the town with an actual famine, till the civil authorities reinspired public confidence by assuring
those who produced, as well as those who dealt in provisions, that they should be protected against violence.
Four years afterwards the dearth again returned, when a proclamation was issued by the police, December
16, 1799, offering premiums to such persons as brought each market-day the largest quantity of wheaten
flour and oatmeal to the Manchester market. In 1812 the town was greatly agitated; the provision riots
were renewed, and a number of the rioters, charged with entering the premises of the dealers and seizing
and conveying away their property, were sent to Lancaster Castle, where four of them, including an aged
woman, were executed for the offence, June 13, 1812.
With the exception of the short visit paid by Henry VII., and that of James I. in 1617, it does not
appear that Manchester, since the Conquest, had had the honour to entertain a British monarch ; but in
September 1768, Christian VII, king of Denmark, in his tour through the northern counties of England,
visited the manufactures of Manchester, and the recently-formed works of the duke of Bridgewater in this
town and neighbourhood. In May 1773 the Russian princess Czartoriski, the duchess of Oldenburgh of her
day, came from Birmingham to inspect the excavations and aqueducts at Worsley; during her stay in
Manchester she was shown through several of the principal works, and expressed much satisfaction with the
various operations of the manufacture, as well as with the fabrics when they were completed. In 1804 the
duke of Gloucester, and his son Prince William, visited Manchester to review the volunteer corps. The
Archdukes John and Lewis of Austria also visited this place, November 14, 1815, on the return of a general
peace, accompanied by a number of scientific men; and it is probable that their tour, extending as it did
over the principal commercial and manufacturing districts of England, enlarged their own minds, but there is
no reason to suppose that what was seen either by the archdukes or their attendants improved in any material
degree the manufactures of their country. The Grand-duke Nicholas, afterwards emperor of Russia, honoured
Manchester with a visit on the 3d of January 1817, and expressed, as he no doubt felt, much surprise at the
extent and perfection of the manufactures.”
1773. Stage-coach travelling was much more deliberate in the middle of the last century than it is at
present (1835); and persons are now living who well remember travelling to Liverpool by the Diligence, which
left Manchester at six o'clock in the morning: its passengers breakfasted at Irlam, dined at Warrington, drank
tea at Prescot, and dropped comfortably into Liverpool at nightfall ! But this was not a luxury to be
enjoyed every day; and hence we find in an advertisement, issued on the 24th of May 1773, “that the
Manchester, Warrington, and Liverpool stage-coach set out from the Spread Eagle, in Salford, on Monday,
Wednesday, and Friday in every week, and returned thither on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday;” and
that “travellers would meet with friendly usage and good accommodation at the inns on the road.” Now
the journey requires only an hour by the railway. Although coaches were introduced into England as early
as the reign of Queen Elizabeth, the number of gentlemen's carriages kept in Manchester when George III.
ascended the throne did not exceed three or four, and those of very recent standing ; but at the end of the
same monarch's reign they had increased to twenty times that number. The luxury and convenience of
hackney-coaches was, at the former of these periods, Scarcely felt : the opposite extremities of the town were
within a few minutes' walk of each other ; and the first attempt to establish these vehicles, made in the year
1750, entirely failed, sedan-chairs being considered preferable.”
In their commercial transactions, this town and county have been laudably jealous of the stability of
their circulating medium ; hence, when the directors of the Bank of England, owing to the number of
forgeries, determined to withdraw their small notes from circulation in 1821; and when one of the expedients
bered 1009, drawn by 1300 horses. 64 omnibuses were drawn by
1 The king, who travelled under title of the Prince of Tra-
387 horses. There were 974 horses for riding, and 2108 draught-
vendahl, took up his residence with his suite at the Bull's Head,
Market Place, then the principal inn in Manchester.
2 For notices of other visitors see “Visits of Remarkable Persons
to Manchester” in Mr. Harland’s “Manchester Collectanea,” vol. i.
p. 166 (vol. 68 of the Chetham Society's series).-H.
* In 1850 the private carriages in Manchester and Salford num-
horses. There were then only 187 hackney-coaches and cabs, drawn
by 408 horses. Including all public and private vehicles, the total
number in the two boroughs in 1850 was 1260, drawn by 3877
horses. These paid duty; there must have been many others
paying none,—H. -
336 (ſiſt #istºry ºf 3Lancashirt.
recommended to supply their place was the issue of provincial bank-notes, of a small denomination, the
inhabitants of Manchester declared it to be their intention “not to receive any local notes in payment,
except in cases of extreme necessity.” The consequence of which decision has been, that a currency is
maintained corresponding in character with that of the metropolis. When the trade of Manchester was much
more circumscribed than at present, these scruples were not felt ; guinea-notes were issued by the only bank
in the town in 1773, and they were then received with avidity.
1774. This year, the duke of Bridgewater built two packet-boats, which were towed daily from
Manchester to Warrington, and back again; the larger containing one hundred and twenty, and the smaller
eighty passengers, at the easy rate of one shilling, one-and-sixpence, or two-and-sixpence each for the passage,
according to the cabin they might think proper to occupy. These packet-boats were, in their day, considered
a public accommodation, little inferior to that which, in our time, railway travelling has introduced.—This
year the philanthropic Howard visited Manchester, where he found twenty-one prisoners confined in the new
Manchester house of correction, at Hunt's Bank (now the Palatine Buildings), which had been erected on the
site of the old gaol, and was in its turn superseded by the New Bailey prison.
1775. The inhabitants became animated by a spirit of public improvement, which has had its alternate
Seasons of activity and torpor, but which has of late attained an energy unexampled in the annals of
Manchester. Under the influence of this disposition, St. Mary's Gate, Cateaton Street, Old Mill Gate, and
Exchange Street, were all widened and improved in 1766-7. A native of Manchester, who wrote in 1783,
and who was himself of course perfectly familiar with the town before the alteration, gives the following
description:-
“Before the present avenue was opened between St. Anne's Square and the Exchange,” says he, “the communication went
under the old coffee-house fronting the Exchange, in a line with the corner-shop, towards Market Street Lane—that for carriages
through a narrow gateway, which was further disgraced by a cobbler's stall; and over this, by narrow stairs, in the true garret-
style, there was one way to the old coffee-house rooms above, those below being let for shops. There was just room for foot-
passengers to avoid carriages on that side where the stairs stood, by keeping in a line with them, and bolting through the gateway
when there was an opportunity. The other communication from the Market Place (to the Square) for the people on foot, was
through an entry which led to the great stairs of the old coffee-house, and across a small court where a pump stood, at the head of
the only passage this way; which was so gloomy and dismal, even at noon-day, that it deservedly acquired the name of ‘The
Dark Entry.’” - - t
Before these improvements were made, Old Millgate, Cateaton Street, and St. Mary's Gate were so
narrow, that they would scarcely admit the passage of a modern-sized carriage, without endangering the
Safety of the people on the footpath; compared with them, Market Street Lane was thought a spacious
street, and it was at that time pronounced to be much too commodious to stand in need of alteration.
Several meetings of the inhabitants were held, before the project for widening the streets communicating with
the Market Place was finally resolved upon. The improvement, it was agreed on all hands, was absolutely
necessary, but a difference of opinion arose as to the mode of defraying the expense: on the one hand, it
was held that toll-gates should be placed at all the principal entrances of the town, to raise the requisite
funds; but it was ultimately much more wisely determined, that the money should be raised by subscription,
and the sum of £10,771 : 3: 6 was subscribed by public-spirited individuals for the purpose.
1777. In the dispute between the government of Great Britain and her North American colonies, the
cause of the mother-country was taken up very warmly in Manchester. A loyal address to the king was
passed by the principal inhabitants, on the breaking out of the American war, in which his majesty was
assured, that his people were ready to support him with “their lives and fortunes, in the prosecution of this
just and necessary contest, for the punishment of rebels, instigated by the artful designs of a discontented
faction.” A subscription was, at the same time, entered into, to raise a regiment of volunteers, to be
employed against the Americans. This fine body of men was called the 72d, or Manchester regiment; but,
instead of being sent to America, they were employed in Gibraltar, under General Elliott, where they
obtained lasting renown. On their return to England, they were received in Manchester with enthusiasm,
and their colours were deposited with much ceremony in the Collegiate Church, from whence they were
removed to the College, where they still remain as trophies of the gallantry of the regiment and the
patriotic fervour of the town.”—On Sunday the 14th of September, this town and all the surrounding
country to an extent of thirty miles were visited by an earthquake, during the time of divine service. The
shocks succeeded each other with so much rapidity and violence, that the congregations in the churches were
thrown into a state of extreme alarm ; and a loud report, which accompanied the last convulsive throe,
Wrought so powerfully upon the fears of some of the congregations, that they rushed to the church-doors,
apprehensive that the buildings in which they were enclosed, would fall and bury them in the ruins; “nor
is it to be wondered at that they were so terrified, as the pillars and walls evidently tottered, and the motion
was so great as to toll the bells in the Collegiate and St. Mary's churches.” Providentially very little
damage was done by this awful concussion. -
* “A Description of Manchester by a Native of the Town,” * See Captain J. Drinkwater’s [Bethune] “Siege of Gibraltar,”
(supposed to be a Mr. Lowe). Printed 1783, and recently re- (1785, quarto).
printed.—H.
humºrº of Salfort—ſhanthester parish. 337
1778. The old chapel, built on Salford Bridge by Thomas del Booth, and afterwards converted into a
dungeon, was taken down for the purpose of widening the bridge.
1779. The town of Manchester and all the other parts of Lancashire, where machinery had been
established for the spinning of cotton, was much agitated by riotous mobs, who visited Altringham, Ardwick,
Stockport, Bolton, Bury, Blackburn, Chorley, and Preston, at each of which places they fell upon the mills of
the manufacturers, and broke the machinery, from an apprehension that it would deprive the poor hand-
spinners of labour. By the exertions of the militia, under Sir George Saville, these misguided people were
subdued, and tranquillity restored, but not till several lives had been sacrificed to the popular delusion.
1780. Riots of a less extensive but of a serious nature took place in Manchester, in consequence of the
indignation felt by the populace, particularly by the women, from the frequency and severity of military
punishments by flogging the soldiers; and it was not till five of the rioters had been apprehended and
committed to Lancaster Castle, that the public peace was restored.
1781. Pool-fold and Hyde Park, near the Exchange, having been purchased by Messrs. Chadwick and
Ackers, they erected commodious shambles and a market, called the New Market, on the site, for the public
convenience. The lord of the manor, Sir John Parker Mosley, bart., considering this an infringement on his
manorial rights, instituted a suit against the proprietors of the market, and succeeded in establishing his
claim of exclusive privilege. The matter was, however, ultimately compromised, and the market was con-
tinued for the public convenience till 1803, when the stalls were removed to the site purchased by the
trustees of the New Bailey Bridge, to widen the top of Bridge Street. This latter meat-market a few years
ago gave way to a handsome pile of buildings, shops, etc. The Manchester LITERARY and PHILOSOPHICAL
SOCIETY, established in 1781, in every stage of its existence has shed a lustre upon the town. In this society
the establishment of Mechanics' Institutes, now become so general, was first suggested by the late Rev. Dr.
Barnes, in 1785, by whom it was recommended “to provide a public repository for chemical and mechanical
knowledge, as a mechanics' school, for the education of young tradesmen and manufacturers.” By the same
enlightened mind, and in the same society, the establishment of the Royal Institution of Manchester was
suggested, forty years before the design was executed. The “Memoirs” of this society, in three series, in-
cluding many volumes, extend from 1799 to the present time (1867). The society has also published several
volumes of “Proceedings,” commencing in October 1857 ; these first appearing in fortnightly numbers.
1782. A curious and antique vial was this year dug up in Castle Field, which was ascertained to be a
lachrymatory, filled with a transparent liquid. The date of this ancient vessel is probably as high as the
Roman conquest of Britain.
1784. In this year an act was passed by parliament, on the suggestion of Mr. Pitt, the recently-appointed
chancellor of the exchequer, imposing a duty, usually called the Fustian Tax, of one penny per yard “upon
all bleached cotton manufactures.” By the operation of this act, the excise laws were introduced into the
cotton trade ; and the immediate consequence, as felt in Manchester and throughout the whole of the manu-
facturing districts of Lancashire, was injurious in the extreme. To obtain the removal of this fatal impedi-
ment to trade, two of the principal merchants of Manchester, Mr. Thomas Walker and Mr. Thomas Richardson,
were deputed, at the opening of the next parliament, to wait upon the minister; and their representations,
backed as they were by petitions from all the manufacturing towns, and supported by the powerful interest of
the duke of Bridgewater, proved so effectual, that the obnoxious tax was repealed on the motion of Mr. Pitt
himself, seconded by Mr. Fox. The joy excited by this triumph of sound policy was manifested in a splendid
public procession in honour of the delegates, on their return to Manchester May 17, 1785, to each of whom
was presented a superb cup and stand, bearing an inscription expressive of the feelings of gratitude enter-
tained towards them by their fellow-citizens. -
1785. Though Gloucester had the honour to originate, Manchester was among the first places in the
kingdom to adopt, the Sunday-school system, which was certainly established prior to 1784, when twenty-six
Sunday-schools existed in Manchester; and as early as 1786 the number of children attached to the thirty-
four schools in Manchester amounted to 2836. At first they were supported by voluntary contributions, and
were schools of different denominations; but in 1800 the church schools were separated and placed under the
authority of the clergy, and the other Schools under the general committee, or of the ministers of the various
denominations.
1787. For many years the house of correction at Hunt's Bank, now part of the site of the Palatine
Buildings, had served for a common gaol, as well for the town of Manchester as for the hundred of Salford;
but in 1782 an act of parliament was obtained for the erection of the New Bailey prison, on the right bank
of the Irwell; and on the 22d of May, 1787, the foundations of this gaol were laid by Thomas Butterworth
Bayley, esq., the chairman of the quarter sessions, the foundation-stone bearing this inscription—
“On the 22d May 1787, and in the 27th year of George III., King of Great Britain, France, and Ireland, this Gaol and Penitentiary
House (at the expense of the hundred of Salford, in the County Palatine of Lancaster) was begun to be erected, and the first stone laid
by Thomas Butterworth Bayley; and that there may remain to posterity a Monument of the affection and gratitude of this County to
that most excellent person, who hath so fully proved the wisdom and humanity of separate and solitary confinement of Offenders, this
prison is inscribed with the name of JOHN HOWARD.”
2 X
338 Čije Đătoru of £antagüirº.
In three years the building was completed; and in April 1790 it was opened for the reception of
prisoners. The New Bailey prison is conducted on the penitentiary system ; the prisoners are classed
according to their sex, age, and delinquencies; and instead of being allowed to congregate in idle groups
during the day, recounting their criminal exploits and hardening each other in vice, they are employed under
task-masters, according to their several abilities, in the mechanical arts, as shoemakers, tailors, etc., or in the
different branches of the cotton business." -
1788. The centenary of the revolution of 1688 was celebrated in Manchester with great pomp. In the
evening of the fourth of November a ball and supper were given at the assembly-rooms, on which occasion
the ladies displayed orange-coloured ribands; and on the following day the landing of King William, “of
glorious and immortal memory,” was commemorated by the ringing of bells, the firing of the military in St.
Ann's Square, and a sumptuous public entertainment, at which one hundred and thirty of the principal
gentlemen of the town sat down to dinner, under the presidency of Thomas Walker, esq., the boroughreeve.
In the following year, the recovery of his majesty from a state of mental alienation produced general rejoicings
throughout the country, and Manchester was splendidly illuminated on that occasion.
1790. The winter of 1789–90 was marked with robberies and other outrages, resembling in point of
atrocity, and the mode of their execution, those which so frequently occur in Ireland. Gangs of armed
ruffians nightly attacked the houses in the neighbourhood of Manchester and Salford; and the inhabitants
were at length obliged to have recourse to armed patrols in different parts of the town and neighbourhood.
This security was not found sufficient for the public Safety; and it was not until an example was made of
one of the perpetrators of the crimes that the suburbs of the town could be considered secure. A person,
named James M'Namara, one of these desperadoes, was brought to trial at Lancaster, and convicted of a
burglary committed by himself and four other men, in the house of Mr. Chetham, the sign of the Dog and
Partridge, on the Stretford Road, in the night of the 17th January 1790. This robbery was not distinguished
by any extraordinary personal violence offered to the family; but the public mind was in a state of alarm,
and it was thought that the example of an execution in the neighbourhood of the town might strike terror
into the minds of the midnight marauders, and afford security to the persons and property of the inhabitants.
Having been conveyed from Lancaster Castle to the New Bailey prison, he was taken from thence on Saturday,
the 11th of September, attended by the chaplain and a large posse of peace officers, to Kersal Moor, where a
gallows had been erected upon one of the eminences. The number of spectators attracted by the novel but
awful scene was immense; and, from the situation of the gallows, the inhabitants of all the surrounding
country had an opportunity of seeing the apparatus of death, and the victim Swinging from the beam. Eight
years afterwards (September 15, 1796), another malefactor, named George Russel, was executed on Newton
Heath, near Manchester, for robbing the bleaching croft of Mr. Shorrocks, near Scotland Bridge. The next
execution was on the 20th August 1866, on a scaffold erected in front of the prison wall, in New Bailey
Street, Salford, when James Burrows was executed for the murder of his father's servant.
1791. The necessity for an improved and more vigorous system of police became so obvious, that an act
of parliament was obtained for regulating the police of the town, which, with a few modifications, remained
in force till the year 1824, when it was superseded by another police act.—The Manchester Humane Society,
for the recovery of persons apparently dead by drowning, or from other accidental causes, was established this
year. The first meeting was held on the 25th of August, 1791, of which Lord Grey de Wilton was the
chairman,—The vast extension of the Manchester manufactures after the peace of 1783, gave rise to various
new schemes of water communication between the centre of that traffic and its principal stations in the
surrounding country. The first of these was a canal to Bolton with a branch to Bury, for which an act was
obtained in 1791. This canal commences on the western side of Manchester from the river Irwell, to which it
runs nearly parallel in a northerly course, crossing it at Clifton, and again at Little Lever, where its two
branches, to Bolton and to Bury, separate. Its total length is fifteen miles one furlong, with a rise of one
hundred and eighty-seven feet. The country with which this canal opens a communication abounds in coals,
together with other mineral products, which by its means obtain a cheap and easy conveyance to the town
and neighbourhood of Manchester. Mercantile goods, raw and manufactured, also afford much carriage in
this populous tract of country.
1792. This year an act was granted for making a canal from Manchester to Ashton-under-Lyne, and to
the neighbourhood of Oldham. This canal branches from the Ashton-under-Lyne canal at Fairfield, and
passes Waterhouses to its termination at Hollinwood. Opposite to Waterhouses a branch opens to Fairbottom
Collieries. The whole length of the canal is eleven miles, and its rise is one hundred and fifty-two feet.
1 In turn the New Bailey is to be superseded. In 1866 it was
determined to erect a new gaol for the hundred of Salford, behind
the splendid pile of the Assize Courts for the hundred in Strange-
ways. The gaol buildings, erected in 1866-7, which are on the
radiating plan, cover nearly ten acres, on what was once Strange-
ways Park ; they are of brick, with stone dressings, forming an
irregular parallelogram, and including governor's house, chief-
warder's house, etc., a prison for males of six radiating wings,
including 912 cells, a chapel, etc.; and a prison for females of four
wings (380 cells). A huge ventilating shaft rises to a height of 200
feet.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arígí, 339
Coal, lime, limestone, and other materials, with manure, are its principal freights. There is a branch from it
to Stockport. - -
1794. The act for cutting the Huddersfield canal passed in April this year. Its two extremities are the
Ashton-under-Lyne canal on the western side (where it communicates with the Manchester and Ashton-under-
Lyne canal), and Sir John Ramsden's canal to the Calder on the eastern. Its general direction is north-east.
From Ashton it takes its course parallel to the Tame, often crossing its windings by Stayley-bridge, and enters
Yorkshire in the manufacturing district of Saddleworth. Arriving at its head level, it penetrates the high
grounds by a tunnel of three miles in length, passing beneath Pule-moss, and coming out near Marsden;
thence it proceeds by Slaigthwaite to Huddersfield, closely accompanying, and often crossing, the Coln. Its
extreme length is nineteen miles and near three-quarters; its fall from the head-level is four hundred and
thirty-six feet on the Huddersfield side, and three hundred and thirty-four feet eight inches on the Ashton
side. Several of the little brooks in the hills are widened into reservoirs for its supply of water. Contem-
poraneously with the passing of the Huddersfield Canal Act (1794), an act passed authorising the opening of
a canal from the Duke of Bridgewater's navigation at Manchester to the Calder navigation at Sowerby-bridge,
near Halifax. Beginning from the south-west side of Manchester, this canal leaves that town at the north-
east corner, and takes its course nearly parallel to the Oldham road as far as Failsworth. Here it turns
directly north, and proceeds through the tract of coal country about Fox Denton, Chadderton, Middleton,
and Hopwood, at a small distance to the east of Rochdale, whence it sends off a short branch to that town.
Having passed Littleborough, it gains its head-level about Deanhead. It was originally intended to enter a
hill at this place by a tunnel, but this is now avoided. Hence it proceeds to Todmorden, where it turns
north-east to Hebden-bridge, and then bends somewhat to the south-east, till it reaches the Calder navigation
at Sowerby-bridge, having during the latter part of its course closely accompanied the river Calder. Its
whole length, from one extremity to the other, is thirty-one miles and a half; exclusive of two short collateral
branches of about a mile and a quarter. From its head-level it falls two hundred and seventy-five feet on
the Halifax side, and four hundred and thirty-eight feet seven inches on the Manchester side. Great reservoirs
have been made in the hill country near different parts of the course of this canal, abundantly sufficient to
supply all the waste of locks or leakage, without borrowing from any of the streams.
1792-1794. During the period between the breaking out of the French revolution and the commence-
ment of the war with France, and for many years afterwards, Manchester was much agitated by political
animosities. The populace, then strongly attached to the policy of the government party, entered into these
unhappy feuds with great violence; and in the evening of the 15th December 1792 the house of Mr. Thomas
Walker (late one of the delegates for obtaining the removal of the fustian tax, and subsequently boroughreeve
of Manchester) was assailed by a riotous mob, and his premises were preserved from destruction only by the
resolute conduct which Mr. Walker and his friends displayed in their defence. A political society, of which
Mr. Walker was a prominent member, called the “Manchester Constitutional Society,” had been established
in this town in October 1790, professedly “to effect a reform in the representation of the people in parlia-
ment ;” but it was imputed to the members of this institution that they sought the overthrow of the English
government in church and state, and to substitute in its stead the French system of democracy. This opinion,
erroneous as it unquestionably was, led also to an attack by the mob on the premises of Messrs. Faulkner and
Birch, the printers of the Manchester Herald, which paper advocated, with a warmth that belonged to those
times, a reform in parliament, and deprecated a war with France. For some time the rioters contented
themselves with collecting in a menacing manner in front of the printing-office, exclaiming, “God save the
King!” “Church and King,” etc.; but at length they proceeded to acts of outrage; the property of the
unfortunate printers was destroyed, and they were obliged to seek refuge in a foreign country. Mr. Walker,
whose ardour in favour of his principles had induced him to assemble the political Societies in his warehouse
at nightly meetings, was suspected of designs against the government ; and at the spring assizes in 1794, this
gentleman was indicted and tried at Lancaster on a charge of having conspired, with Mr. Joseph Collier and
others, “to overturn the constitution and government of this country by force of arms, and to aid and assist
the French, in case they should invade this kingdom ;” but the evidence called in support of this charge failed
so entirely that the leading counsel for the crown, the late Lord Ellenborough (then Mr. Law), declared that
it was improper that he should proceed in the trial; and the principal witness, Thomas Dunn, was committed
to the castle, at the instance of Mr. Erskine and Mr. Vaughan, counsel for Mr. Walker, for perjury. At
the next assizes Dunn was brought to trial; and having been found guilty, he was sentenced to stand once in
the pillory, and to be imprisoned two years in Lancaster castle.
1793. This year proved one of the most trying periods for trade and commerce ever experienced in
this country. The number of bankruptcies in England was increased from an average of 816, for the three
* Party spirit already ran very high in this place. The claims parliament by petitions praying for a repeal of the test and corpora-
of the dissenters to an equality of civil rights with their fellow- tion acts. These petitions gave rise to a long and angry paper war,
subjects had been urged with great force in the House of Commons which terminated only with the final rejection of the motion on that
by Mr. Beaufoy in 1787, and again in 1788, and the Protestant subject, made by Mr. Fox in 1790.
Dissenters of Manchester seconded the efforts of their friends in
340 (Iſiſt £istory of £ancashire.
preceding years, to 1956, and Manchester felt its full share of the public distress. The recruiting service, as
was natural, flourished in proportion to the depression of trade; and the annals of this town do not furnish
another year wherein so many persons changed the shuttle for the firelock.
1799-1800. Manchester is not remarkable for drought ; for the thirteen years preceding the summer
of 1800 the average quantity of rain that fell here in the months of June, July, and August, was twelve
inches and a quarter; but in the year 1800 the phenomenon occurred of only one inch and a quarter of rain
in this town during the whole of those three months. This dry summer was, however, by no means propitious;
and the fact will serve to reconcile the inhabitants to what they may sometimes be inclined to consider a little
more than their equitable proportion of rain. The corn crops of 1799 had failed to an alarming extent, and
the crops of 1800 were equally deficient : wheat, which in July 1790 sold for 64s. per quarter, had advanced
in the July following to 134s, ; and in the July of 1801 it still sold at 129.s. per quarter. 1802 was a year
of peace and plenty. The treaty of Amiens (October 14, 1801), which was celebrated in Manchester by
illuminations and other demonstrations of joy, gave Europe time to breathe; and the average price of wheat
in July of that year had fallen to 67s. per quarter. On the subject of the seasons and their influence upon
the public health, Dr. Percival says, that the Bills of Mortality at Manchester seem to confirm the observation
that wet seasons are generally more free from epidemic diseases than dry ones; and the doctor institutes a
comparison of the six years preceding that in which he wrote ; from this comparison it appears that the year
1766, which had the least rain, had the largest number of deaths, in the proportion, on an average, as three
is to two.
1800-1801. This town, which is at all times very liable to accidental conflagrations from the inflammable
nature of its manufactures, was peculiarly unfortunate in the winter of 1800-1. On the 10th of December,
about midnight, an alarm was spread that the lofty warehouses in Hodson's Square were on fire. The ten
warehouses, of which that square consisted, were all destroyed; and; although property of the value of
#100,000 was Snatched from the flames, the actual loss sustained amounted to £50,000, exclusive of the
buildings. About six weeks afterwards, early in the evening of January 27, 1801, while all the workpeople
were busily employed in their respective departments, the spinning-factory of Messrs. Littlewood and Kirby,
on the banks of the Medlock, took fire in one of the lower rooms, and burnt with such fatal rapidity as to
cut off the communication between the main staircase and the fourth and fifth storeys, before the people
employed in them were aware of their danger. A scene of the most heart-rending kind now took place;
men, Women, and children were seen traversing the rooms without any hope of escape, expecting every moment
to sink into the fiery gulf that raged beneath them, till thirteen of them, impelled by despair, precipitated
themselves out of the windows, to the depth of 30 or 40 feet. Of this number, only one survived the fall;
and twenty-eight other persons, who had remained in the factory till it was consumed, were found buried in
the ruins, but so scorched and mutilated as not to be identified.
1803-4. The short-lived peace of Amiens terminated in a renewal of the war in May 1803, and in a
threat of invasion on the part of the government of France. The natural effect of this arrogant menace was
to unite and to arm the people of England. The volunteer system, which was partially resorted to in other
stages of the war, now became general throughout the country, and in no part of the kingdom did the
patriotic flame glow with more ardour than in Lancashire. On Thursday the 12th of April 1804, a grand
military spectacle was displayed on Sale Moor. On this occasion all the volunteer corps in Manchester,
Salford, and their vicinity, were reviewed by his royal highness prince William of Gloucester, the commander
of the north-western district, who, on his arrival on the ground, was received with a salute of twenty-one
guns from the earl of Wilton's corps of artillery. The military details do not belong to this work, but the
names of the corps constituting this gallant band claim a more permanent record than the fleeting chronicles
of the day. They amounted to an aggregate force of 5816 men, and consisted of—
Men.
Volunteer Cavalry, Major Shakespeare Phillips e & e º & * tº I38
Artillery, Colonel the Earl of Wilton e * *. * º ſº e IL3
Royal Manchester and Salford Volunteers, Colonel Ackers . tº * • £e 1017
Second Battalion Royal M. & S., Lieutenant-Colonel Sylvester º * º g * I057
St. George's Volunteers, Colonel Cross we e & º $ º ſº & 300
Hulme Volunteers, Major Pooley . g * ſº g & º g tº 190
Swinton, Captain Bullock a e & g g © * g * g 83
Pendleton, Captain Ablett . g º * º e º * gº; g 110
Fourth Class, Manchester and Salford Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel G. Philips , t fº 386
Trafford Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Cooke e & g g g tº 845
First Regiment of Manchester and Salford Volunteers, Lieutenant-Colonel Philips 1119
Heaton Norris Volunteers, Captain Dale g g • a
Failsworth Pikemen, Captain Birch & g e ſº & & º g 192
Manchester, Salford, Bury, and Stockport Rifle and Pikemen, Lieutenant-Colonel Hanson . g 676
On Saturday the 24th of March 1804, the hay-market was removed, by the authority of the lord of the
manor, from Market Street Lane to Bridgewater Street, Deansgate ; and the potato-market was, on the same
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamriještet #arisiſ. 341
day, removed from Shude Hill to St. John's market, but it has since been established in Smithfield market
near Shude Hill and Swan Street.
1806. The first stone of the Manchester Exchange was laid by George Philips, esq.; the old Exchange
stood in the Market-place, having been taken down in 1792.
1808. This year a negotiation was set on foot between the inhabitants of Manchester and Sir Oswald
Mosley, the lord of the manor, for the purchase of the manor of Manchester, and the rights and privileges
thereunto appendant. At a public meeting, held on the 22d of June, a select committee was appointed for
the purpose of corresponding and conferring with Sir Oswald on the subject. The second report of the
committee, which describes the nature and value of the property at that time, is in these terms:—
“In considering the negociation with Sir Oswald Mosley, for the purchase of the manor, in a pecuniary view only, it appears
that the sum of £90,000 is asked for the sale of the present gross income of £2800, being at the rate of something more than thirty-
two years' purchase; but it is estimated, that this income will very soon be so increased, that it may not improperly be now
considered as a clear income of £2800.” The following are the particulars of the manor —“The manor, comprising the markets,
right of holding markets, fairs, tolls, and wastes, and every privilege and incident belonging thereto, and including the market site
of the old shambles, the sites of St. John's and the haymarket, in Camp-field and at New Cross—ancient rents appendant to the
manor, issuing from lands in Manchester, Gorton, and Blakeley. For this, Sir Oswald Mosley requires £63,000. The site of the
butchers' market in Deansgate, for which Sir Oswald requires no more than the sum it cost him, namely £7500. The premises
adjoining this market, now under lease to Mr. Ainsworth, which were purchased for the purpose of extending the market, and cost
Sir Oswald Mosley £4000. The capital-house or building in Hanging-ditch, built for, and used as the cheese-market, and conver-
tible to any purpose on a removal of that market, Sir Oswald estimates at £2800. The butchers' stalls, in the different markets, to
be paid for at prices which Sir Oswald will propose; but as he cannot, with accuracy, state the number of stalls, he reserves this
estimate until he meets the committee, £2500. All the above sums are included in the £90,000.” Among a few exceptions in this
enumeration, there is the following:—“All the privileges Sir Oswald has of supplying the town of Manchester with water (since
sold to the water-works company), and also the sites of the ancient reservoirs for water at Shude-hill, and the Infirmary.”
The means of purchasing these manorial rights and possessions, proposed by the special committee, were
easy; but when everything was arranged, to the satisfaction of the committee and the lord of the manor, a
public meeting of the inhabitants was held, at which this most beneficial arrangement was violently opposed.
The motion for carrying it into effect was, very fortunately for Sir Oswald Mosley, but most unfortunately
for the town, negatived; and in June 1845 Sir Oswald Mosley sold the manor and its rights to the Manchester
Corporation for £200,000-A petition was sent from Manchester to parliament, signed by fifty thousand
persons, against the orders in council passed by the English government, in retaliation of the Berlin and Milan
decrees of the Emperor Napoleon, and the effect of which was greatly to restrict the commercial operations,
and to embarrass the manufacturing industry of the country. The same year Manchester was much agitated
by a contest between the weavers and their employers regarding the rate of wages, and the interference of
parliament was sought by the former, by fixing a maximum of six shillings and eightpence in the pound above
the prices then paid. In the meantime the weavers assembled on Tuesday the 24th of May, and again on
the day following, in St. George's Fields, in large bodies, and in a manner which awakened the apprehensions
of the authorities of the town. At the latter of these meetings the Riot Act was read, and the military were
afterwards called out by the magistrates to disperse the assembly; in the discharge of which service one of
the weavers was killed, and several of them wounded. But the circumstance which peculiarly distinguished the
events of this day was the appearance upon the field of Lieutenant-Colonel Joseph Hanson, of Strangeways Hall,
of the volunteer rifle corps, mounted upon his charger. On his arrival, the colonel addressed the meeting in
a speech which afterwards became the subject of judicial inquiry at the assizes at Lancaster. The result of
the trial was a verdict against the colonel of “aiding and abetting the rioters,” and he was sentenced by the
court of king's bench to pay a fine of £100, and to be imprisoned six months in the custody of the marshal
of the marshalsea court.” These riotous proceedings were the more formidable, from having extended to
almost all the manufacturing districts of Lancashire.
1809-1812. From this time till the conclusion of a general peace, party spirit in Manchester ran very
high. In 1812 a very extraordinary ebullition of this feeling was elicited. The boroughreeve and constables,
on the requisition of about one hundred and fifty gentlemen, having convened a meeting of the inhabitants of
the towns of Manchester and Salford and the neighbourhood, to be held in the Exchange buildings on
Wednesday the 8th of April, to prepare a loyal address to the prince regent, considerable difference of opinion
displayed itself in the town as to the nature of the address that it might be advisable to adopt. Both parties
were diligent in mustering their strength, and the number of persons collected was so large, that danger was
alleged to be apprehended for the Safety of the building in which they were to assemble ; on this ground, a
notice appeared, on the morning of the day appointed, from the boroughreeve and constables, postponing the
meeting sine die. Before the hour of meeting arrived, the populace rushed into the Exchange news-room in
* Of this sum of £63,000, the tolls and market profits are taken to your cause, and you will certainly gain your ends. Neither
at an average of twenty years' purchase. Nadin (the deputy-constable), nor any of his faction shall put you
off the field this day : stick together, gentlemen, you cannot live by
* It was imputed to Lieutenant-Colonel Hanson, and sworn to by your labour; there is room for six shillings in the cut ; and if you
the witnesses on the trial, that, in his address to the weavers, he cannot obtain that, I will advance you six shillings in the pound.”
said—“Your cause is good; stick to your cause and I will support From the proceeds of a subscription of 39,600 pennies (£160), a
you as far as £3000; and if that will not do I will go further; stick memorial or tribute was presented to Lieutenant-Colonel Hanson.
342 Qſìje 3%istory of £ancashire.
torrents, and one party of them took and kept possession of the room, while another division repaired to
St. Ann's Square, in the area of which they held a meeting, and voted an address to the prince-regent,
censuring the measures of government, and praying for a reform in the representation of the people. After
the meeting was over, the mob, with a licentiousness wholly unpardonable, broke to pieces all the furniture
in the exchange, shivered the windows and chandeliers all to atoms, and wantonly injured a fine full-length
picture of Colonel Stanley, one of the county members, which hung against the wall. The arrival of the
military at this critical moment put an end to these excesses, and dispersed the rioters. One of the conse-
quences of this outrage, and of the perturbed state of the neighbourhood, was to fill the town with soldiers.
The Scots Greys, the flying artillery corps, and several militia regiments, were all drawn to this point ; and
the recently passed act for strengthening the hands of the civil power, was also brought into operation by the
establishment of the watch and ward. For the accommodation of the military, a camp was established on
Rersal-moor: and the display of martial strength exhibited in a grand review which took place here on the
12th of August, was supposed to have had a very tranquillising influence. -
1814. The return of peace happily united all parties, and a spirit of urbanity and good neighbourhood
began once more to display itself. The rejoicings on this occasion were universal. A splendid and numerous
procession of the authorities and inhabitants of both Manchester and Salford passed through the public
streets amidst the acclamations of the populace ; and the three days of rejoicing were respectively closed by
illuminations, a public dinner, and a general assembly.—The waters of the Irwell, acting through a succession
of ages upon the sandstone rock at Hunt's Bank, had so much undermined the foundations of some of the
buildings that, early in the morning of the 29th of July 1814, the houses inhabited by Thomas Robinson and
William Hill, and part of the soapery of Messrs. Fogg and Company, slid from their foundations and fell into
the river. The consequences were fatal: Robinson and his eldest daughter both perished, and Mr. Hall,
the foreman in the soapery, shared the same fate. Three others of Robinson's children were precipitated
into the river, but were taken out alive, though much bruised.—The winter of 1813-14 is remarkable for
one of the most severe and long-continued frosts ever experienced in Lancashire. All the canals and rivers
were frozen up, and many branches of trade were at a stand owing to the interruption of the inland
navigation. During this period a circumstance occurred which exeited very deep interest in the town and
neighbourhood of Manchester, and in other parts of the kingdom. A young lady named Lavinia Robinson,
on the eve of marriage with Mr. Holroyd, a surgeon, disappeared in the night of the 16th of December, after
receiving a visit from her lover ; and was sought for in vain in this and the neighbouring counties, till the
breaking up of the ice on the 7th of February following, when her body was found in the Irwell, near Mode
Wheel, about three miles below Manchester. The events of the fatal night of her disappearance are involved
in mystery; but it is conjectured that some suspicion of her chastity, expressed by her lover, had driven her
to desperation, and that from the agony of her feelings she sought refuge in the grave."—A fatal accident
occurred here on Sunday the 19th of December 1814, attended with circumstances of a very alarming
nature. An immense congregation had assembled in the Methodist chapel in Oldham Street, to hear a
funeral sermon preached on the recent death of the Rev. Dr. Cooke. The intense heat, occasioned by the
pressure in the choked-up avenues, induced some person in the crowd to break a square of glass in the
window for the admission of air. The breaking of the glass, acting upon the susceptible feelings of a
congregation ready to take alarm from the extreme pressure suggesting the idea of danger, spread a panic
through the chapel, on which a tremendous rush was made towards the door. In a few seconds a number of
persons were thrown down, and a pile of bodies presented an impassable barrier against all egress from the
chapel. Tranquillity having been in some degree restored, several persons made their way into the street,
and others were dragged out in a state of insensibility, one woman quite dead, and another expired on
reaching the infirmary. A number of others were seriously bruised, but the extent of the mischief was less
fatal than might have been anticipated.
1815. An incident which happened at the Whit-Monday anniversary of the Sunday schools this year
spread a general panic throughout the town, which happily far exceeded the magnitude of the cause by which
it was excited. The Trafford vault happened to be at that time constructing, and the galleries of the
Collegiate Church were undergoing some alterations, owing to which a temporary platform had been erected
for the reception of a portion of the children, 7976 in number, during the time of divine service. The
tilting of one of the forms at the commencement of the singing spread an alarm that the floor was giving
way, and that the juvenile part of the congregation were sinking prematurely into the mansions of the dead.
A mighty rush in consequence took place, by which seven of the children were much bruised, and one was
unfortunately killed. All the efforts made to compose the congregation were in vain ; the terrors of the
children within, and the apprehensions of their parents without, could not be overcome, and the Warden was
obliged to conclude the service abruptly. Since that time only a certain number of the older children have
been taken to church at this annual festival, but they all still assemble in St. Ann's Square, and make a
1 The morning after Miss Robinson quitted her home, a note, dying breath I attest my innocence of the crime laid to my charge.
expressed in these terms, was found upon her table:–“With my Adieu ! God bless you all ! I cannot outlive his suspicion.”
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arisiſ. * - 343
highly interesting display. On Whit-Monday 1866 the procession of Church of England Sunday scholars
numbered 12,342.
1817. The inhabitants of Manchester and Salford were greatly alarmed this year by the murder of
Margaret Marsden, aged seventy-five years, and Hannah Partington, a young woman, the servants of Mr.
Thomas Littlewood, in his dwelling-house at Pendleton. After the murders, which took place about mid-
day, in the absence of Mr. Littlewood's family, the house was robbed of cash, plate, and wearing-apparel to
a considerable amount. The persons implicated in this atrocity, besides an unknown accomplice, hitherto
undiscovered, were James Ashcroft the elder, James Ashcroft his son, David Ashcroft his brother, and
William Holden, son-in-law of the elder Ashcroft. For the perpetration of this crime the family of guilty
confederates were brought to trial on Friday the 5th of April 1817, and being all convicted, on clear though
circumstantial evidence, they were executed at Lancaster on the Monday following, persisting to the last in
their declarations of innocence.
We have arrived at a very stormy period in the history of Manchester. Peace, for a time at least,
diminished instead of increasing the national prosperity; all Europe being left, by the vast efforts of a few
of the last years of the war, in a state of exhaustion, both the foreign and the home markets became languid;
trade was at a low ebb ; prices and wages were reduced, and “the manufacturing classes in this extensive
population were involved in deep distress.” These evils were imputed, by a numerous body of politicians, to
a defective state of the national representation, and a radical reform in the constitution of the commons house
of parliament was demanded by the labouring classes in all the principal manufacturing districts of the
kingdom. Political associations, called Union Societies, were very generally formed in furtherance of this
object ; and in Lancashire the call for annual parliaments and universal Suffrage was extremely loud and
importunate. The first meeting assembled in Manchester under the influence of these doctrines was held on
St. Peter's Field in October 1816, at which, after voting resolutions favourable to a radical reform, the
multitudes separated in good order. On the 10th of March 1817, another very numerous meeting was held in
the same area, at which about one thousand persons appeared, furnished with blankets slung round their
shoulders, with the intention of marching to London to lay their grievances before the Prince Regent. This
meeting was dispersed by the military, and a number of the leaders were conveyed to the New Bailey prison,
but some hundreds of the Blanketeers, as they were called, marched off the field, taking the direction of
Tondon. Several of these misguided people reached Macclesfield, but none of them advanced as far as Prince
Charles and his followers had penetrated in the year 1745. *
1818. The political fermentation was increased by a turn-out of the spinners, the colliers, and the
weavers for an advance of wages, and by almost daily processions of the workmen, who refused to continue
their labour at the prevailing rate of wages. With the hope of amending their condition, a resolution was
taken by the labouring classes to hold a large public meeting to petition the House of Commons “for the
immediate repeal of the Corn Bill,” and Mr. Henry Hunt of London was invited to preside on this exciting
occasion.
1819. This meeting was accordingly held on the 18th of January, and the resolutions passed
unanimously. In the summer of the same year, Mr. Hunt was invited to attend another meeting in
Manchester, at which it was proposed, in imitation of a recent example set at Birmingham, to elect a
“legislatorial attorney and representative” for the town of Manchester. The day fixed for this meeting was
Monday the 9th of August, but in the meantime the magistrates issued a notice declaring the object of the
meeting to be illegal, and requiring the people to abstain from attending, at their peril. The radical reformers,
after some hesitation, withdrew their notice, and obtained a requisition, signed by 700 householders, to the
boroughreeve and constables of Manchester, “requesting them to call a public meeting to consider the
propriety of adopting the most legal and effectual means of obtaining a reform in the commons house of
parliament.” With this requisition the boroughreeve and constables having declined to comply, the requisitors
themselves called a meeting “for the above purpose, to be held in the area near to St. Peter's Church, on the
16th of August ; Henry Hunt, esq., in the chair.” The magistrates of Lancashire and Cheshire had now
become seriously alarmed for the public tranquillity. Some time before the meeting, several bodies of men
in the neighbourhood assembled in groups, late at night and early in the morning, to practise so much of
the military exercise as consists in marching. This was by many considered as a preparation for open
rebellion; but those who took part in the drilling declared that their sole object was to accustom themselves
to march in order, as they wished to go in procession to the Manchester meeting. On the morning of the
16th of August, the societies of radical reformers in Rochdale, Middleton, Royton, Oldham, Ashton, Stockport,
and Saddleworth, were in motion, and contributed to swell the numerical strength of the Manchester meeting,
as well as to add to its gaiety and effect. About eleven o'clock in the forenoon, the parties began to arrive
in Manchester, and after marching through the streets, preceded by their banners and music, each took up a
station upon the field as near to the hustings as could be approached. At the same hour the magistrates,
ten in number, repaired to the house of Mr. Buxton, in Mount Street, in view of the field, that they might
1 The wages of spinners were 32s. per week, while weavers could not earn on an average more than 8s, or 10s. weekly.
344 (The #istory of £antagüíre.
witness the proceedings of the day, and be prepared to act as circumstances might require. Under their
direction, a body of about 200 special constables took their stand, extending in a line from the house where
the magistrates were assembled to the hustings. The military, consisting of the Manchester and Cheshire
Yeomanry Cavalry, the 15th Hussars, a detachment of the 88th regiment of foot, and some pieces of royal
artillery, were all in readiness, but they were not then seen by the persons forming the meeting. From
eleven to one o'clock the various divisions continued to arrive. On reaching the ground, each company was
greeted with acclamations; and all the flags and caps of liberty were ranged round the hustings, which
consisted of two carts, covered over with planks. The inscriptions on the flags were such as generally
prevailed at the radical meetings, except that one, painted on a black ground, had inscribed upon it. “Equal
Representation, or Death.” This was the standard of the Saddleworth, Lees, and Mossley Union; on the
Middleton flag was written, “Let us die like men, and not be sold like slaves.” There was no appearance
of arms or pikes, but a number of the men had sticks, such as are generally seen in the hands of countrymen
at fairs and races. About one o'clock Mr. Hunt arrived in a barouche, accompanied by Messrs. Johnson,
Knight, and Moorhouse, zealous reformers, and on the box was a woman dressed in white, with an emblem,
which the magistrates supposed to be a cap of liberty.' The measure of the meeting was now full, and the
number assembled amounted to from sixty to eighty thousand. “Long before this,” says Mr. Hay in his
letter to the secretary of state for the home department, “the magistrates had felt a decided conviction that
the whole bore the appearance of insurrection; that the array was such as to terrify all the king's subjects,
and was such as no legitimate purpose could justify. In addition to their own sense of the meeting, they
had very numerous depositions from the inhabitants as to their fears for the public Safety; and at length a
man deposed as to the parties who were approaching attended by the heaviest column,” and a warrant was
issued to apprehend the leaders. On Mr. Hunt's arrival, he was called to the chair by the assembled
thousands, and began to speak to an audience all attention to catch the sound of his voice. At this moment
the Manchester Yeomanry Cavalry were seen advancing at a rapid pace on to the field from Pickford's Yard,
to assist Nadin, the deputy-constable, in executing the warrant, and they drew up in front of the house where
the magistrates were assembled. The chairman of the meeting, observing the approach of the military,
advised his auditory to receive them with three cheers, but to stand firm. The cavalry, after halting for a
minute or two, drew their swords, and forming in sixes, they dashed into the midst of the crowd in the
direction of the hustings. The affrighted multitude, unconscious till that moment of their danger, gave way
on all sides with as much rapidity as their condensed situation would allow, but numbers of them were thrown
down and trampled upon by the hoofs of the horses, and others were wounded by the sabres of the
yeomanry. In the space of a minute, a passage was cleared round the hustings, and Messrs. Hunt, Johnson,
and others, with all the banners and emblems, were captured. The panic-struck reformers fled in all
directions, while some of those at a distance threw stones and brick-bats at the Yeomanry, who galloped over
the field in triumph, chasing the fugitives. The Cheshire Yeomanry and the 15th Hussars, who had now
reached the ground, followed by two pieces of flying artillery, assisted to clear the field; and in four or five
minutes from the first attack the whole multitude was dispersed. The cavalry next scoured the neighbouring
streets; and the thousands so lately congregated in One dense mass were soon spread over the whole town of
Manchester. “The parties apprehended were brought to the house where the magistrates were. In the
meantime the Riot Act was read, and the mob was completely dispersed.” It now became the duty of the
peace officers to remove the killed and wounded. Three or four persons were found dead upon the field, one
of whom was a special constable, named Ashworth. Twenty-two men and eight women were conveyed to
the infirmary, of whom five were slightly wounded, eight had fractures, principally of the ribs, nine bruises
or contusions, two were wounded with Sabres, and five were shot, one of whom died, and another was
returned as dead, without the nature of his wound being specified. Numbers who were wounded, but not
disabled, made the best of their way home; and it appeared from an investigation subsequently made, that
in the whole eight persons lost their lives, and from four to five hundred were bruised or wounded.” One of
the yeomanry, named Hulme, was knocked from his horse by a missile, and dangerously hurt by the fall, but
he afterwards recovered. The chairman of the meeting, who had received a slight wound on the head, and
several blows from the truncheons of the constables, was conveyed to the New Bailey under the protection of
the magistrates, and in the course of the day ninety other persons were apprehended and placed in confinement.
|Mr. Hunt and several of his friends were detained in prison for upwards of a week, on a charge of high
treason; but this charge was afterwards abandoned, and ten of them were indicted for a misdemeanour, in
convening and attending an illegal and seditious meeting. Five bills of indictment were preferred at Lan-
caster by Mr. Hunt, against the members of the yeomanry, for malicious cutting, but they were all thrown
out by the grand jury. Attempts were also made to prosecute the magistrates, but no justice of the peace
could be found in the county who would receive an information against them. Hopes were, however, still
1 The Rev. W. R. Hay's letter to Lord Sidmouth, dated August obtain redress for the sufferers,” states that the aggregate number
16, 1819. of persons injured on the 16th of August was upwards of 600
* Manchester petition to the House of Commons, Nov. 29, 1819. (including 113 females), and that of this number 420 received
The report of “The committee appointed to afford relief, and material bodily injury, of whom 130 had sabre wounds.
#umbrell ºf Salfort—ſhanthester #arišij. 345
entertained by those who condemned the conduct of the magistrates and the yeomanry, that means would be
presented, by the verdicts of the coroner's inquest on the bodies of the persons killed on Peter's Field, for
bringing them before a court of justice; but these hopes were disappointed, from verdicts of “accidental
death "having been returned; and an inquest at Oldham, which sat by adjournments for several weeks in
the case of John Lees, a cotton-spinner, was terminated without any decision, owing to the coroner not having
taken a view of the body, along with the jury, before they were sworn. Mr. Hunt, and nine of the leaders
at the meeting of the 16th of August, were indicted at Lancaster for sedition, as already stated; but the trial
was removed to York, on the ground of the strong feeling against them in the county of Lancaster. After a
trial of ten days, in which Mr. Hunt conducted his own defence with considerable ability and temper, he was
found guilty, and sentenced to be imprisoned two years and a half in Ilchester gaol. Messrs. Joseph Johnson,
Joseph Healey, Samuel Bamford, and John Knight, were also found guilty; and the three former were
sentenced to one year's imprisonment each in Lincoln gaol, but Mr. Knight was not brought up for judgment.
The other defendants, Messrs. James Moorhouse, John Thacker Saxton, Robert Jones, George Swift, and
Robert Wilde, were all acquitted. The legal proceedings arising out of the melancholy transactions of the 16th
of August were terminated by an action for an assault and wounding, brought by Thomas Redford, a
journeyman hatter, at Audenshaw, near Ashton-under-Lyne, against Hugh Hornby Birley, major in the
Manchester yeomanry cavalry ; Richard Withington, a captain in the same corps; Alexander Oliver, one of
the yeomanry ; and Edward Meagher, the trumpeter. The trial took place before a special jury, at the
Lancaster spring assizes in 1822, which continued for five days, and excited considerable interest—when the
jury, after a short consultation, returned a verdict for the defendants. Such is a brief history of the prominent
events of the memorable 16th of August, divested of all party-colouring, and in the fidelity of which, it is
presumed, all parties will concur. The most profound sensation was produced by these events both in
parliament and in the country. For a time a portentous gloom took possession of the public mind, and the
spirit of party animosity reigned triumphant ; but the revival of trade, and the consequent improvement in
the condition of the manufacturing population, abated the ardour of political feeling, which, in the course of
the ensuing year, was moderated down to the usual standard.
1820. The Manchester Chamber of Commerce was established this year. The object of this institution
is the promotion of measures calculated to benefit and protect the trading interests of all its members, and the
general trade of the town and neighbourhood of Manchester.
1821. All the symptoms of returning prosperity now began to display themselves : the great body of
the people became contented with their condition ; plans for improving the town were formed ; the
foundations of new edifices, secular and religious, were laid; and institutions for the cultivation of the public
taste amongst the upper, and for the extension of useful knowledge amongst the lower classes, were established."
Market Street, the principal thoroughfare of the town, had long been inadequate to the convenient carrying
on of the vast traffic by which it was continually crowded. To remedy this increasing evil, an act was
obtained this year (1st and 2d Geo. IV. cap. 126), with the general concurrence of the town, to improve and
widen Market Street to the extent of twenty-one yards; and certain avenues—namely the bottom of King
Street, Hunter's Lane, Nicholas Croft, Toad Lane, and Toll Lane—to the width of sixteen yards. The
commissioners lost no time in commencing their operations; a fine spacious street, with handsome shops and
dwellings on each side, descending by a regularly-inclined plane from Piccadilly to the Exchange, was
completed in 1836. The avenues from King Street to Deansgate, and from Cannon Street to Hanging Ditch
by Hunter's Lane, also received the requisite expansion, and Nicholas Croft, Toad Lane (Todd Street), and
Toll Lane, were all widened in compliance with the provisions of the act of parliament. The coronation of
his majesty George IV., celebrated in Manchester on Thursday the 19th of July 1821, was one of the most
splendid and imposing ceremonies ever witnessed out of the metropolis. A similar celebration, on the
coronation of his royal father, just sixty years before, was remembered by aged people with feelings of admiration,
but, compared with the display and magnitude of the present ceremonial, it was as Manchester of 1761 to
Manchester of 1821. All party feelings seemed this day to have merged in united loyalty ; and a stranger
who had visited Manchester in August 1819, and in July 1821, would have found it difficult to persuade
himself that he was in the same place. At half-past seven o’clock the children of all the principal schools in
the town, to the number of 25,697, with their teachers at their head, were assembled in St. Ann's Square,
and, attended by the authorities of Manchester and Salford, the clergy, military, music, and flags, marched in
procession through the principal streets of the town to Ardwick Green, whence they returned into Piccadilly,
where they sang the national anthem in full chorus, and, having given nine hearty cheers, they separated to
their respective schools, to partake of the refreshments which had been prepared for them, each of them
having been previously presented with a large coronation medal. The grand procession succeeded, and consisted
* Mr. Humphreys (of America) says, in one of his letters from (about sixty millions) per annum. As the town is continually in-
England :—“ Manchester is, next to Tondon, the largest town in creasing, it bids fair in a few years to swallow up all the manufac-
England, and is rapidly increasing both in wealth and population. turing villages in the vicinity. Great fortunes have been made and
A distinguished banker in Liverpool assured me that the clear profits are making there ; and nowhere out of the metropolis is solid
of business in Manchester could not be less than twelve millions capital supposed to be so large as it is in Manchester.”
2 Y
346 Oſije #istory of £ancashire.
of the lord of the manor, the magistrates and public officers, the deputy-lieutenants, clergy, and gentry, with
all the principal trades of the town, consisting of the workmen in each, headed by their employers, all dressed
in their best attire, and each of them wearing a rosette of mazarine, crimson and white, provided for the
occasion. At half-past ten o'clock the procession began to move from St. Ann's Square, preceded by a guard
of Lancers, a full military band of music, a brigade of the royal artillery, with two pieces of cannon, a
detachment of infantry, and the Manchester and Salford Yeomanry Cavalry. Taking the route down Bridge
Street, they proceeded to Pendleton, and returned over Blackfriars Bridge through the principal streets of the
town, to Ardwick Green ; here the military fired a feu-de-joie, which was repeated during the march, in
returning to St. Ann's Square, where the procession was dissolved about four o'clock in the afternoon. The
magnitude of this cavalcade may be inferred from the procession extending five miles, including the streets
to the right and left. At five o'clock in the afternoon, a discharge of artillery announced the commencement
of the distribution of refreshment in different parts of the town; and in the course of the evening, twenty-
seven Oxen, sixty sheep, and four hundred barrels of strong beer, were distributed to the populace.
1824. The Manchester Fire and Life Assurance Company ranks amongst the commercial establishments
of this town. This institution was formed on the 24th of March 1824, with a capital of £2,000,000, arising
out of 20,000 shares of £100 each. On the 14th of February 1825, the fire office had granted 3500 policies,
embracing property to the amount of about six millions and a half sterling; and the business, not only in
IManchester, but in other places to which it extends, is progressively increasing. The life department is
likewise flourishing to a considerable extent.—A terrible accident occurred here on Wednesday the 16th of
October, in the spinning-manufactory of Mr. Nathan Gough, called Islington Mill, in Salford. About nine
o'clock in the morning, while the people were all at work, the iron beam, on which one compartment of the
fire-proof floor of the top storey rested, broke suddenly, and the ponderous materials, in their descent, burst
through the corresponding compartment in each floor from the top to the bottom of the mill, which was six
storeys high, by which fatal disaster nineteen persons were killed and about the same number wounded.
1825. An application was made this year to parliament for an act to construct a railway from
|Manchester to Liverpool, by way of Eccles, Chat Moss, Newton, Rainhill, Huyton, and West Derby, being a
distance of thirty-one miles. Owing to the formidable resistance made by some of the great landed
proprietors, and the navigation companies, this application failed ; but it was resumed the following year,
and an act obtained, though not without considerable difficulty and at an enormous expense. After the
necessary surveys and other preliminary arrangements, the work was begun under the direction of George
and James Stephenson, the civil engineers; and though the difficulties in the way of the execution of this
great public undertaking were very formidable, they were all ultimately overcome by the spirit and enterprise
of the company, and the skill and perseverance of the engineers. On the 15th September 1830, the railway
was opened under circumstances that will be more particularly dwelt upon in the history of Liverpool; and
from that time to the present, the traffic on this road has been every year increasing, both in the conveyance
of passengers and merchandise, till it has at length obtained an unparalleled magnitude.
1828. Miss Frances Hall of Manchester died 4th June 1828, aged 84, having devised a moiety of
upwards of £40,000, to the Royal Infirmary, House of Recovery, Lying-in Hospital, Ladies' Jubilee School,
&c., Manchester.—She is commemorated by an elegant monument in Byrom's Chapel, in the cathedral,
erected 1834. -
1831. The official census this year of the population of the townships of Manchester and Salford (which
may be considered as one town), made by the authority of parliament, shows that the number of inhabitants
amounted to 182,812, exceeding that of any other town in the kingdom, London alone excepted. In the
15th and 16th centuries, and till the middle of the 18th, the increase in the number of inhabitants had been
small, but steadily progressive. The improvement in manufactures, and the consequent increase of employ-
ment, appear to have given an amazing stimulus to population. Before the period when government insti-
tuted regular decennial inquiries into the number of the people in each parish and township in the kingdom,
the returns were subject to much irregularity and uncertainty; but from the best information that can be
collected, it appears that while from the middle of the 16th to the middle of the 17th century the population
of Manchester had not more than doubled itself, the number of inhabitants in the reign of William IV
amounted to nearly twenty times the number of those in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, though Manchester
was even at that time described as “surpassing the neighbouring towns in elegance and populousness.”
According to the best authorities extant, the following has been the scale of progressive improvements:—
THE NUMBER OF INHABITANTS IN MANCHESTER.
Inhabitants.
Dr. Bird’s petition, temp. Hen. VIII. or Edw. VI., states the number to be about . * & & & e 8,000
According to the charter granted by Queen Elizabeth to the College in 1588 e * * g e tº . 10,000
According to the charter of Charles I. in 1635 º g . . . 20,000
[These estimates probably comprehended the whole parish.j
* Camden, vol. iii. p. 375.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arisiſ. 347
Inhabitants.
In 1717, according to the account quoted by Dr. Perceval, in his Essay on Population, the number of inhabitants *
in Manchester, was . © e © e º º º G. • * º & tº & 8,000
In 1757, the doctor says, the numbers in Manchester and Salford were 19,839
In 1774, the whole parish contained - tº º º e 41,0321
In 1788, according to Dr. Aikin, Manchester and Salford contained 50,000
In 1801, ) ſ 84,020
In 1811, 98,573
In 1821, - 133,788
In 1831, according to the parliamentary census, the townships of Manchester and Salford only contained 182,812
In 1841, 217,056
In 1851, 250,409
2 In 1861, J U256,412
This increase of numbers in the population is borne out by the following returns of the Bills of
Mortality:-
EILLS of MORTALITY for the Town of MANCHESTER from 1580 to 1832.
à td §, # º É, # aſ: ë, É td §
C/2 *—w cº :/2 F-3 cº tº !-- cº ..? r-4 cº,
Years. #. # # ||Years #. # # ||Years. #. # # ||Years. #. # '#:
cº E cº cº E cº cº E; cº cº ;: cº
ſº ſº : ſº ſº Ž ſº ſº : ſº ſº E
1580 206 158 50 1625 260 232 122 1670 188 149 76 1715 282 315 135
1. 198 I62 39 6 273 193 64 I I65 179 71 6 342 405 180
2 226 154 41 7 256 171 95 2 190 304 70 7 348 341 155
3 206 106 18 8 292 221 106 3 | 192 215 54 8 330 339 154
4 200 146 22 9 || 273 307 80 4 167 288 54 9 339 309 151
5 207 250 35 5 168 231 55
6 234 227 29 1630 310 195 71 6 I80 241 67 1720 285 273 148
7 153 277 23 1. 263 211 72 7 204 224 93 1 337 441 164
8 167 449 34 2 300 281 82 8 221 211 82 2 325 385 149
9 || 251 182 39 3 || 301 357 84 9 199 236 65 3 361 315 I93
- I 4 314 250 91 4 373 343 I68
1590 201 264 25 5 282 354 94 1680 185 264 66 5 379 294 175
1. 175 318 . 19 6 334 289 100 1 214 360 74 6 || 377 492 198
2 185 285 48 7 288 303 72 2 I96 220 80 7 378 380 167
3 || 262 230 77 8 || 297 266 80 3 214 274 63 8 338 447 158
4 246 163 69 9 || 285 275 55 | 4 || 199 347 46 9 284 742 147
5 | 268 248 68 5 228 237 72
6 242 192 46 1640 303 297 86 6 || 235 296 60 1730 305 548 210
7 | 157 255 24 | || 255 227 95 7 211 294 52 1 393 382 253
8 154 432 41 2 262 359 70 8 I98 255 86 2 387 274 217
9 206 180 37 3 || 265 225 24 9 208 272 80 3 || 434 327 226
4 289 359 19 4 || 454 348 221
1600 210 141 72 5 143 31212 67 || 1690 173 183 64 5 || 487 547 184
1 179 145 46 6 196 144 99 1 203 222 88 6 504 405 197
2 215 198 50 7 | 243 252 58 2 206 244 60 7 528 360 217
3 260 235 60 8 229 197 40 3 || 48 302 77 8 573 356 256
4 272 188 83 9 I60 255 23 4 86 I92 57 9 629 418 266
5 175 31078 61 5 254 273 85
6 229 153 134 1650 144 182 35 6 216 246 83 1740 552 700 I94
7 289. 222 92 1 152 197 40 7 221 285 94 1. 531 590 201
8 272 207 73 2 161 210 32 8 229 220 114 2 554 502 287
9 241 165 79 3 | 155 210 30 9 208 240 Ill 3 602 562 285
4 178 201 I 09 - 4 684 536 307
1610 275 172 63 5 155 230 102 1700 231 229 133 5 653 471 227
1. 287 176 85 6 154 166 131 1 234 259 135 6 632 619 252
2 254 201 75 7 168 I99 95 2 252 256 131 7 | 734 590 324
3 234 287 70 8 141 183 36 3 || 245 215 126 8 752 470 278
4 283 203 86 9 157 I80 29 4 284 269 105 9 || 738 507 287
5 246 211 85 5 235 224 132
6 287 I75 70 1660 162 135 37 6 224 255 118 1750 740 902 279
7 292 244 77 I 191 135 79 7 216 252 I07 1 751 650 267
8 290 229 102 2 177 164 58 8 I 89 265 113 2 740 590 255
9 || 265 256 105 3 | 158 213 76 9 || 210 284 127 3 753 793 312
4 || 259 I73 75 4 816 624 236
1620 297 284 96 5 174 279 59 1710 || 211 235 128 5 744 706 287
1 306 302 88 6 210 175 88 l 213 330 I26 6 774 812 246
2 285 290 57 7 | 164 212 80 2 || 2:28 325 125 7 | 671 778 284
3 222 594 46 8 195 242 88 3 246 246 154 8 || 775 706 319
4 184 248 90 9 186 2.11 72 4 292 240 164 9 | 815 712 330



1 Dr. Percival’s returns in 1774:—Town of Manchester—males,
10,548 ; females, 11,933=22,481. Town of Salford—males, 2248;
females, 2517 = 4765. Out Townships—males, 6942; females,
6844=13,786. Population of the whole parish—41,032 souls,
* By the census of 1861, it appears that Manchester, the muni-
cipal borough or city, then contained 338,722 inhabitants; the
parliamentary borough or city, 357,979. Salford, the 7municipal
and parliamentary, borough (their limits being conterminous),
102,449 persons. Total of the two municipal boroughs, 441,171 ;
of the two parliamentary boroughs, 460,428.
* Years of the plague.
348 Qſìjt #istory of 3Lancašíſirr.
BILLS OF MORTALITY-(Continued).
à ta ë, # {p} % É w; § à tr; É.
Ú). r- cº Tſ) r–4 cº U2 F- cº U2 r-h cº
Years #. ă '# ||Years. #. ă E ||Years. E. # #: Years. #. # #:
ă ă : à à = ă ă # ă ă #
I760 793 818 380 || 1780 1566 993 456 || 1800 2463 1639 - 1099 || 1820 3405 1615 2043
| | 874 613 340 1 1591 1370 495 | | 2655 2528 1242 1 3522 1697 2495
2 788 659 351 2 | 1678 984 567 2 3484 2146 2121 2 || 3517 1585 2.514
3 780 909 363 3 | 1615 1496 682 3 || 4210 1914, 2336 3 || 3767 2448 2479
4 || 889 754 447 4 1958 1175 848 4 2996 1451 1763 4 || 3896 2432 2865
5 886 723 388 5 1942 1734, 893 5 3763 1697 1611 5 4461. 2090 2481
6 887 1019 368 6 2319 1282 872 6 || 3605 1591. 1409 6 || 4553 2414 2.245
7 929 692 346 7 2256 1761 903 7 3566 1503 1547 7 || 4684 2285 23:38
8 || 959 867 399 8 || 2391. 1637 968 8 3376 1245 1317 8 || 4852 2696 2592
9 1027 788 423 9 || 2487 1788 920 9 || 3096 1473 1309 9 || 4748 2531 2208
1770 || 1050 988 429 || 1790 2756 1940 1120 || 1810 || 3015, 1320 1408 || 1830 5007 2711 2528
| | 1169 993 423 I 2300 1332 1312 1 3238 1183 1503 I 5318 3216 2564
2 | 1308 954 427 | 2 | 2665 1354 1654 2 2925 1493 1329 2 5374 39421 24962
3 1168 923 383 3 2507 1461 1230 3 2901 1569 1358
. 4 || 1245 958 422 4 2231. 1262 1064 4 2887. 1539 1954
5 1359 835 473 5 2166 1771 1099 5 3442 1431. 2164
6 1241 1220 494 6 2421 1392 1349 6 3020 1690 1972
7 || 1513 864 577 7 || 2647 1344. 1385 7 || 3155 1815 1691
8 || 1449 975 484 8 2664. 1464 1564 8 || 3181 2450 2022
9 || 1464. 1288 448 9 2705 1610 1717 9 || 3376 1878 2222
1832. By the act “for amending the representation of the people of England and Wales,” Manchester
and Salford were constituted parliamentary boroughs, the former with the privilege of sending two representa-
tives to parliament, and the latter with the privilege of sending one. By the act for “settling and
describing the divisions of counties and the limits of boroughs, so far as respects the election of members to
serve in parliament,” the borough of Manchester was made to comprehend “the several townships of
Manchester, Chorlton-row, otherwise called Chorlton-upon-Medlock, Ardwick, Beswick, Hulme, Cheetham,
Bradford, Newton, and Harpurhey.” The borough of Salford was comprehended within the following bound-
aries, “from the northernmost point at which the boundary of the township of Salford meets the boundary
of the township of Broughton northward, along the boundary of the township of Broughton to the point at
which the same meets the boundary of the township of Pendleton ; thence westward along the boundary of
the township of Pendleton to the point at which the same meets the boundary of the detached portion of
the township of Pendlebury; thence southward along the boundary of the detached portion of the township
1 Cholera year. We have constructed from these tables the following, showing the
[* The above returns are extracted from the registers of the
Collegiate Church to the year 1821; and subsequent to that time
from those registers and the register of the Rusholme Road
Cemetery combined. There are also funerals at other churches
and chapels in the town, fluctuating from 500 to 1000 a-year.]
numbers in every decennial period or decade of 10 years, and also
the totals of the 29 years in the 16th century, the whole of the
17th, the whole of the 18th century, and the 40 years of the 19th
century. In six instances an asterisk* is prefixed to denote imperfect
returns within the period :—
Decade ending with JBap. Maſr. JBºſſr. Decade ending with Bap. Mar. JBºſſr.
9 years ending with - 1711 . 2,238 1,203 2,586
1581 . . . e - © *1637 *406 *1278 || 1721 . 3,044 1,529 3,172
Decade ending.with 173] . 3,600 1,823 4,315
1591 . 1891 267 2377 || 1741 . 4,682 2,140 3,992
1601 . 2078 528 2278 || 1751 . 6,069 2,742 5,236
*-* e- — || 1761 . 7,107 2,988 6,406
29 years 5606 1201. 5933 || 1771 . 8,285 3,933 6,835
*-*. *-** — || 1781 . 12,051 4,657 7,444
1611 . 2529 774 2744 || 1791 . 19,079 9,077 10,841
I621 . 2752 855 2406 || 1801 . 24,515 12,562 14,779
I631 . 2635 808 2711
1641 . 3174 823 2911 Century . . 90,670 42,654 65,606
1651 . 2089 475 3384 -*-*w-
I661 . *1506 *631 1837 || 1811 . 31,456 15,424. 8,795
1671 . 1830 *734 I968 || 1821 . 29,316 15,768 11,197
1681 . 1919 690 2687 || 1831 . 44,592 23,251 10,496
1691 . 2060 698 2590 || 1841 . 56,770 28,030 14,815
1701 . 2091 948 2581 -
, - - 40 years . 162,134 82,473 45,303
Century . 22,585 7436 25,819 em----
Totals of the entire period of 269 years . 281,109 133,806 142,280
The yearly mean for so long a period, and during so vast an increase
of population, would be of no value. It is more interesting to mark,
in so great a number of persons, and during so long a period, the
proportion which baptisms bear to marriages and burials.—H.
39ttmlyrtly of Salfort—ſhanthester #ariši). 349
of Pendlebury to the point at which the same meets the boundary of the township of Salford; thence west-
ward along the boundary of the township of Salford to the point first described.”—On the 9th August a
magnificent procession was made in Manchester to celebrate the passing of the Reform Bill, which enfranchised
the borough.
The following are the returns of the various contested and other elections, from the passing of the
Reform Act to the general election of July 1865 inclusive —
MANCHESTER [CITY]—(Two MEMBERs).
ELECTORS IN 1832, 6726. IN 1865, 22,792.
Election of Election of
1832. Dec. Mark Philips e * * (L.) 1.2923 1841. July. Mark Philips $ & * * (L.) 3695
Bight Hon. C. P. Thomson . (L.) 2068 Tho. Milner Gibson g º º (L.) 3575
Samuel Jones Loyd & gº g (L.) 1832 Sir Geo. Murray . e & g (C.) 3115
John Thomas Hope (c.) 1560 Wm. Entwisle . fº tº * (c.) 2692
Wm. Cobbett (L.) 1305 - *m-mºsºme
1847. Aug. Right Hon. T. M. Gibson . . (L.)
1835. Jan. Right Hon. C. P. Thomson . e (L.) 3355 John Bright. g & º & (L.)
Mark Philips & º g § (L.) 3163
Benj. Braidley (c.) 2535 | 1852, July. Right Hon. T. M. Gibso g g (L.) 5762
Sir Chas. Wolseley te e . (L.) 583 John Bright . tº e e w (L.) 5475
On Mr. Thomson becoming President tºmºmºsº. * Geo. Loch . * g g ſº (c.) 4363
of the Board of Trade : Hon. Jos. Denman à & * (c.) 3955
1835. April. Right Hon. C. P. Thomson . e (L.) 3205 smºs-s-s-s-s-s-s
Benj. Braidley * g (c.) 1839 1857. March. Sir John Potter . g * e (L.) 8368
tº-º-º-º: Jas. Aspinall Turner . * & (L.) 7854
1837. July. Right Hon. C. P. Thomson . (L.) 4.158 Right Hon. T. M. Gibson . e (L.) 5588
Mark Philips * ge & g (L.) 37.59 John Bright . e g g & (L.) 5458
Wm. Ewart Gladstone . * (c.) 2224 On the decease of Sir J. Potter : ---
On Mr. Thomson becoming Governor- — 1858. Nov. Tho. Bazley . tº ſº * * (L.)
General of Canada : (A double Poll 1859. April. Tho. Bazley . * gº & * (L.) 7545
taken, there being a question as to Jas. Aspinall Turner . * g (L.) 7300
the returning officer.) Abel Heywood . * º ge (L.) 5448
1839. Sept. Before the Borough reeve— Hon. Capt. Denman . e g (c.) 5201
Rob. Hyde Greg . te g * (L.) 3096 *
Sir Geo. Murray . ge º e (c.) 2969 | 1865. July. Tho. Bazley . & e * e (L.) 7909
Col. T. P. Thompson . & º (L.) 93 Edw. James, Q.C. . g º . (L. C.) 6698
JBefore the Mayor— Jacob Bright sº † g e (L.) 5562
Rob. Hyde Greg . g g e (L.) 3421 Abel Heywood . * & g (L.) 4242
Sir Geo. Murray . & e g (c.) 3156 —
SALFORD–(ONE MEMBER).
ELECTORS IN 1832, 1497. IN 1865, 5458.
Election of Election of
1832. Dec. Jos. Brotherton . ſº ge º (L.) 712 1847. Aug. Jos. Brotherton . e s º (L.)
Wm. Garnett e º º tº (c.) 518 1852. July. Jos. Brotherton . º e * (L.)
— 1857. March. Wm. N. Massey . * º * (L.) 1880
1835. Jan. Jos. Brotherton . * * * (L.) 795 Sir E. Armitage . & g e (L.) 1264
John Dugdale g g e e (C.) 572 *s-smº.
-— 1859. April. Wm. N. Massey . & * s (L.) 1919
1837. Aug. Jos. Brotherton . * * e (L.) 890 Hen. Ashworth . & * te (L.) 1787
Wm. Garnett & wº º tº (c.) 888 *
— 1865. July. John Cheetham . 4. gº g (L.)
1841. July. Jos. Brotherton . e & & (L.) 991
Wrm. Garnett ſe tº g tº (c.) 873
1834. A convent of nuns of the Order of Presentation was founded on the 22d May, adjacent to St.
Patrick's Roman Catholic Chapel.
1835. The erection of St. Saviour's, Plymouth Street and Upper Booth Street, Chorlton-upon-Medlock,
was commenced in July; estimated cost £6000, raised by subscription. Consecrated November 11. The
building of the museum of the Natural History Society was commenced in St. Peter's Field, November 1833,
and opened May 1835; the front is in the Ionic style. It has since been enlarged by the addition of a new
wing 92 by 29 feet. The Tent Methodists discontinued their chapel in Canal Street, Ancoats, Manchester, in
1835; and in October, same year, it was sold to Robert Gardner, esq., for £3200, and the purchaser converted
it into an episcopal chapel (St. Jude's), opened as a church April 1837. The Associated Wesleyan Methodists'
Chapel, Oldham Road, was opened November 22, 1835; the Independent Chapel, Oxford Road, was com-
menced in 1835–6.
1836. The first stone of St. Luke's Church, Smedley Lane, Cheetham, laid 29th June ; the site presented
by the Right Hon. the earl of Derby, and Edward Loyd, esq.; consecrated October 6, 1839. The first stone
* Of the letters in parentheses, L. denotes Liberal, C. Conservative.
350 (The #igtúrg of £amtašljict.
of St. John's (the Evangelist) Church, Higher Broughton, laid 6th July; site presented by the Rev. John
Clowes, of Broughton Hall, A.M., who also gave the endowment ; consecrated October 5, 1839. The act
for power to make the Manchester and Leeds (now the main line of the Lancashire and Yorkshire) Railway,
received the royal assent 4th July 1836. The Manchester Musical Festival, concluding with a fancy dress
ball, held in September. It was while singing at the Theatre Royal at this festival that Madame Malibran
de Beriot fainted on the stage, and her illness terminated fatally September 23, in her 29th year. She was
buried in the south choir aisle of the Collegiate Church, October 1 ; under a faculty obtained from the bishop
of Chester by her relatives, the body was exhumed December 20, and re-interred at Laeken, near Brussels,
January 4, 1837.-As a consequence of the reduction to 1d. of the stamp-duty on newspapers, the price of
the Manchester newspapers was reduced from 7d. to 4d. The Imperial Bank of England, King Street, was
established in December. (It suspended payment April 30, 1839.) The new Union Club House, Mosley
Street, was opened March 11.
1837. The Corn Exchange, Hanging Ditch, opened January 7. Its erection (1835-7) cost £4000;
area, nearly 600 square yards. Victoria Park (140 acres), in the townships of Rusholme, Moss Side, and
Chorlton-on-Medlock, opened July 31. The Deaf and Dumb School, and Henshaw's Blind Asylum, Old
Trafford, opened with a procession, June 21. The Cattle Market, Cross Lane, Salford, opened July 12. The
Grand Junction Railway, connecting Manchester (and Liverpool) with Birmingham and London, opened
July 4. The Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Cheetham Hill, opened September 15. The Scotch Church, Mill
Street, Ancoats, opened September 24. The Manchester Architectural Society was founded this year. The
New School and the high-master's house of the Free Grammar School were opened January 30, costing
f7500. [The house was subsequently converted into the Cathedral Hotel.] A very high flood in the
Irwell, December 20. The Manchester Society for promoting National Education was established in
November. The Female Penitentiary, Embden Place, Greenheys, opened September 7.
1838. The Night Asylum, Smithfield, for destitute and houseless poor, opened February 5. Manchester
School of Design formed in February. Manchester and Bolton Railway opened May 24; 10 miles, cost
£650,000. Zoological Gardens, Higher Broughton, opened May 31. Unitarian Chapel (now the Free Church),
Strangeways, opened June 17. Salford Mechanics' Institution opened June 23. Marshal Soult fêted at the
Union Club House, July 20. The junction of the Bridgewater Canal and the Medlock opened September
20. A radical demonstration and meeting on Kersal Moor, September 20. At a Wesley centenary meeting
in Oldham Street Chapel, November 7, £20,000 subscribed. Carpenters' Hall, Brook Street, opened
November 12; cost £4500. The Mersey and Irwell Navigation Company started the river steamer Jack
Sharp, June 4; 12 horses'-power, 66 feet long, carrying 150 passengers.
1839. Victoria Bridge opened with a procession, June 20; cost £20,800. First quarter-sessions for
the borough, before R. B. Armstrong, esq., recorder, June 26. Hope Street Schools, Oldfield Road, opened
April. “Cabs” introduced into Manchester August 5. The Chartists’ “Month's Holiday” and riots in the
town and neighbourhood, August. Heaton Park Races discontinued. Manchester and Salford Junction
Canal (the river Irwell with the Rochdale Canal), opened October 28. Prince Louis Napoleon (Emperor
Napoleon III) visited Manchester, January 29. The Athenæum, Bond Street (designed by Sir Charles
Barry), opened October 28. The Unitarian Chapel, Upper Brook Street (designed by Sir Charles Barry),
opened September, cost nearly £9000. Great anti-corn-law banquet held in the Free Trade Hall, Peter
Street, January 13; 4000 present. Great flood in the Irwell and much damage, January 24.
1840. Victoria Gallery of Science opened, March 2, in Exchange Dining-rooms. Manchester and
Bolton Railway opened from Manchester to Stockport, June 4. The Post Office, Brown Street, opened
September 7. All Souls' Church, Ancoats, consecrated ; cost £4400. New poor-law introduced here,
December 15. Manchester and Leeds Railway (now main line of Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway), opened
throughout, March 1. Commodore Sir Charles Napier fêted at the Town Hall, April 21. Anti-corn-law
Meeting in Stevenson Square disturbed by the chartists, June 2. Union Carrying Company's warehouses,
Piccadilly, destroyed by fire, December 20 ; damage £30,000.
1841. Hargreaves Society's first concert, Wellington Rooms, Peter Street, November 25.
1842. Soup-kitchens for the poor opened, January. Anti-Corn-Law Bazaar, Theatre Royal, January
31, produced £9000. Honourable Edward Everett, the American ambassador, visited Manchester in June.
St. Silas's Church, Pinmill Brow, consecrated October 10. The Bank of Manchester stopped payment ;
losses £800,000, liabilities £713,082 ; Burdekin, the manager, absconded. St. John's Church, Pendleton,
consecrated October 11. In June the British Association held its twelfth annual meeting in Manchester.
In June, St. Matthias's Church, Broughton Road; St. Bartholomew's, Regent Road; Sts. Simon and Jude's,
Granby Row; and St. Jude's, Canal Street, Ancoats, were consecrated. Riots in Manchester in August from
want of employment and dear food. Manchester and Birmingham Railway opened throughout, August 10 ;
cost £1,890,000. First Manchester and Salford Regatta on the Irwell, September. Zoological Gardens closed
and animals sold, November 23. -
1843. The new Free Trade Hall opened with an anti-corn-law banquet; erected 1840-43; length,
#umbren of $alforn—ſºlamriješter 33arisiſ. 351
135 feet 8 inches, breadth 102 feet 6 inches; area, 14,000 square feet, with gallery: capable of holding
several thousands. James Emerson Tennent, esq., M.P., presented with a service of silver plate (106 pieces,
3000 oz.), at a dinner at the Albion Hotel, subscribed for (£1850) by the calico-printers of Great Britain, for
his services in procuring the act for the copyright of designs. Messrs. Clayton and Gladstone's warehouse,
Norfolk Street, destroyed by fire, January 28; damage £20,000. An earthquake, March 17. Lancashire
Independent College, Withington, opened by Dr. Raffles, April 26. The Chetham Society formed in
IMarch. Trinity Church, Stretford New Road (to which Miss Atherton gave £10,000), consecrated June 28.
Father Mathew administered the pledge in Manchester to many thousand persons in July. The coal-pits of
Mr. Fitzgerald and Mr. John Knowles, Pendleton, destroyed by water; the former's loss said to be £50,000.
Manchester Athenæum bazaar and soirée, in October (attended by Charles Dickens and others), produced
f1820. High floods in the Irwell, October 28. Half-holiday soirée, Town Hall, November 27. The Old
Quay Carrying Company's concern purchased by Lord Francis Egerton (earl of Ellesmere) for £400,000
(£800 per share), December 21.
1844. Manchester and Leeds Extension to Hunt's Bank and Victoria Station opened, January 1. Ten
warehouses in George Street and York Street burned down ; damage £140,000. The Manchester Bonding
Warehouses Bill passed July 4, and the first cargo of goods for bonding in Manchester (wines and spirits for
Mr. William Gibb) arrived October 19. Mr. Gibb was the originator and promoter of the measure. The
king of Saxony visited Manchester, July 16. John Dalton, D.C.L., F.R.S., etc., the discoverer of the
Atomic Theory, etc., died in his 78th year, July 7, and after the body lay in state at the Town Hall,
August 10, being visited by nearly 40,000 persons, there was a very large public funeral, August 12, and the
remains were laid in a vault in the Ardwick Cemetery, and a stone monument placed over them. A great public
meeting held in the Town Hall, August 8, to promote the formation of public parks for Manchester. The
Liverpool and Manchester Railway Extension to the Victoria Station, Hunt's Bank, opened May 4. Theatre
Royal, Fountain Street, destroyed by fire, May 7. St. Thomas' Church, Red Bank, consecrated, May 13.
Irwell Buildings, Blackfriars Street, partly destroyed by fire ; damage, £20,000, and two men killed. Albert
Bridge, near the New Bailey, opened September 26 with a procession ; cost £8874: 15 : 5. Professor
Liebig visited Manchester in September. Athenæum soirée, Free Trade Hall, October 3, attended by B.
T)israeli, esq., M.P., Lord John Manners, and others. The Manchester Custom House opened October 11. St.
Barnabas's Church consecrated ; cost £5000. Sir Henry Pottinger fêted at the Town Hall, December 20.
1845. A dinner and service of plate (£500) given to Mr. William Gibb, January 24, for his services in
obtaining bonding privileges for Manchester. An explosion of a locomotive boiler at Miles Platting, January
28, which killed three men; at the inquest a deodand of £500 was imposed on the engine. The manorial
rights purchased by the corporation from Sir Oswald Mosley for £200,000, March 24. The yearly income
from tolls, etc., stated to be £9000. A fancy dress ball in aid of the funds for public baths and wash-houses
held in the Free Trade Hall, April 29. The Manchester subscription in July for the relief of sufferers by the fire
at Quebec reached £6000. A dinner and service of plate (117 pieces, 2620 ounces, cost 1800 guineas) were
given to Edward Tootal, esq., September 20, for his services in procuring the act for the formation of the
Trent Valley Railway. Athenæum soirée at the Free Trade Hall, October 23, attended by Serjeant Talfourd,
Douglas Jerrold, Mr. Lover, and others. Anti-corn-law bazaar, Free Trade Hall, October 15. New Theatre
Royal, Peter Street, opened September 29, with Douglas Jerrold’s “Time works Wonders,” and “The
Buckingham Palace Bal Costumé;” 2468 persons present. The building is 67 yards by 23 (10 yards longer
and 20 inches narrower than that burned down in Fountain Street); area 1900 square yards. The façade of
stone is in the modern Italian style, a loggia portico with wings; with three entrances, the centre arched, 52
feet from the ground, over which a pediment rises to a height of 70 feet. The architect, Mr. Chester,
designed not only the edifice, but its interior decorations; the erection and furnishing costing the proprietor
and lessee, Mr. John Knowles, £23,000. At the usual prices the house will hold about £250. The Public
Parks Committee purchased Lark Hill, Salford (now Peel Park), for £5000; in May, Hendham Hall Estate,
Harpurhey (30 acres), now Queen's Park, for £7250; and the Bradford estate (31 acres), now Philips Park,
in May for £6200. The Manchester Commercial Association formed this year.
1846. The Manchester Court of Record for the recovery of debts up to £50 opened before R. B.
Armstrong (recorder), judge, March 30. Richmond Independent Chapel, Broughton Street, Salford, opened
April 22. Ibrahim Pacha, Viceroy of Egypt, visited Manchester, June 17 and 18. Presentation at the Free
Trade Hall, to the Rev. Daniel Hearne, of a purse (£270), gold crucifix and chain (£40), gold watch, chain,
etc., £40, and a silver breakfast service, June 7. Dissolution of the Anti-Corn-Law League in consequence of the
act passing for the abolition of the corn-laws, July 2. The rejoicings in celebration of the repeal of the corn-
laws, holiday, procession, dinners, and illumination, August 3. The new public parks—Peel, Queen's, and
Philips parks—opened with a great procession and festivities, August 22.
1847. Some restrictions removed on bonding in the port of Manchester, June 23. The Grand-Duke
Constantine of Russia and suite visited Manchester, July 6. Foundation-stone of the south wing of the Royal
Infirmary laid by Thomas Markland, esq., followed by a dinner to that gentleman, 30 years its treasurer, July 8.
352 Çffe #istory ºf £antagüirº.
Independent Chapel, Pendleton, opened July 14. St. Chad's Roman Catholic Chapel, Cheetham, consecrated
August 3, opened August 4. The edifice is of pointed Gothic of the fourteenth century style. Great fire in
Market Street at Cunliffes, Brooks, and Co.'s bank and other premises, August 11 ; damage £30,000. Jenny
Lind's first appearance in Manchester at the Theatre Royal, August 28. The Lancashire Public School Associa-
tion commenced operations, September 14. The Rev. James Prince Lee, M.A., head-master of King Edward's
Free Grammar School, Birmingham appointed (first) bishop of the newly-created see of Manchester, October.
Ralph Waldo Emerson, the American philosopher and essayist, lectures in Manchester, October. The
Branch Bank of England, corner of Pall Mall, in King Street, erected after a Doric design by Mr. Cockerill.
1848. Great banquet at the Free Trade Hall, to celebrate the repeal of the corn-laws, January 27. The
bishop of Manchester enthroned at the cathedral, February 14. Blackfriars Bridge thrown open free of toll,
|March 10. Serious riots, and the mills in the neighbourhood of New Cross attacked, March 9 and 10. Seven
rioters committed to the assizes for an attack on Messrs. Kennedy's mill, Ancoats. Chartist demonstration, front
of Salford Town Hall, March 13. Fraternisation-meeting in the Free Trade Hall between Chartists and Irish
repealers, March 17; and demonstration in the Manchester Town Hall in favour of repeal of the Union with
Ireland, March 18. Chartist meeting in Stevenson Square to petition parliament for the liberation of Frost,
Williams, and Jones, April 4. In April 12,000 special constables sworn in to assist in keeping the peace of
the town. Irish repeal meeting in Stevenson Square, May 18. New Roman Catholic cathedral church of
St. John the Evangelist, Chapel Street, Salford, opened August 9. Eight bishops and 130 priests took part
in the ceremonial; and Cardinal Archbishop Wiseman preached. Three hundred ladies and gentlemen after-
wards partook of a collation in the Salford Town Hall. Fifteen Chartist leaders apprehended at the club-rooms,
about Ancoats and Oldham Road, August 3. Forty-six Chartist leaders and orators were indicted for
conspiracy, and bench warrants issued for their apprehension, August 22. The duchess of Cambridge visited
Heaton Park, September 22, and witnessed there a review of all the troops in Manchester, Mr. James Fernley's
Gaythorn Cotton-mills destroyed by fire, November 15; damages £21,000.
1849. Crowded meeting in favour of finanical reform and retrenchment in the Free Trade Hall, addressed
by Messrs Cobden, Bright, and Gibson, January 10. Great banquet at the Free Trade Hall in celebration of
the final repeal of the corn-laws, 3000 present, January 31. St. Simon's Church, Springfield Lane, Salford,
consecrated, February 26. Great meeting at the Town Hall in favour of a secular system of education, to be
supported by local rates and managed by local authorities elected by the ratepayers, March 29. The
Manchester New Exchange opened by a full-dress ball in aid of the public baths and wash-houses, March 18.
The silk-mills of Messrs. Williams and Gardom, Salford, destroyed by fire, June 19; damages £40,000. Dreadful
thunderstorm, September 1. New scheme for regulation of the Manchester Free Grammar School, by decree
of the Vice-Chancellor, January 10. New trustees elected in accordance therewith from residents, and not
from wealthy country gentlemen, in September. A visitation of Asiatic cholera in September. The duchess
of Cambridge laid the foundation-stone of St. Margaret's Church, Prestwich, October 3.
1850. Wednesday, January 9. The Salford Royal Museum and Library were publicly opened by a meeting
in the building, Peel Park—Joseph Brotherton, esq., M.P., chairman of the library and museum committee,
presiding. The report of the committee stated that six months only had elapsed since the Town Council of
Salford resolved to establish a free public library and museum, and the library opened with more than 5000
volumes (given and bought). For the museum, a nucleus of several thousand specimens had been collected.
The library, and a spacious reading-room, occupied all the rooms on the principal floor of the building, the whole
of the first floor being devoted to specimens in natural history, geology, antiquities, coins, and curiosities. The
event was also celebrated by a tea-party in the Salford Town Hall on the evening of the same day—E. R.
Langworthy, esq., the mayor of Salford (supported by Mr. Brotherton, M.P., and Mr. John Potter, mayor of
Manchester) presiding; 350 present. Thursday, January 10. A meeting of churchwardens and sidesmen of
the district churches, and of other members of the Established Church in the parish, was held in the Town Hall,
to consider the outline of a bill for effecting a subdivision of the parish and other church reforms. Mr. Richard
Birley, senior churchwarden, presided, and resolutions were passed, approving of the proposed measure ; that a
voluntary rate of twopence in the pound be made to raise the necessary funds for obtaining the proposed act; and
a numerous and influential committee was appointed to assist the churchwardens in carrying the bill through
parliament. January 20. A lady named Novelli, residing in Higher Broughton, was killed by her brother-in-law,
|Mr. A. Novelli, who was insane, and afterwards hung himself. February 5. A very destructive hurricane
passed over the town and neighbourhood. A ball in January, in aid of the Salford and Pendleton Dispensary,
realised £764 for the funds of that institution. A great fire at All Saints' Church, February 6; estimated
damage nearly £4000. A meeting at the Town Hall, February 11, to originate a subscription for its
restoration, at an estimated cost (including an organ) of £2500. At this meeting it was stated by the Rev.
C. H. Burton, that All Saints' Church was built by his father at a cost of £16,000, and that it had never
paid him 5 per cent. The church was re-opened for divine service September 26. March 11. The new
Manchester Borough Gaol opened to receive prisoners. This building is in the township of Gorton, about three
miles from Manchester, on a site of eight acres near the London and North-Western Railway, from which it
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arisiſ, - 353
has a single line of rails. It is a parallelogram in an Italian style, within a stone boundary-wall 20 feet
high, with angle towers. The north front has the principal entrance, with the houses of the governor and
chaplain flanking the gateway, which is secured by a portcullis. The gaol building is of brick, with stone
facings, and has four corridors, each 203 feet long and 15 feet wide, radiating from a central inspection-hall,
pentagonal and 120 feet in circumference, which is surmounted by a tower or ventilating-shaft 120 feet
high. The central building has a chapel, infirmary, magistrates' and other offices, baths, etc. In the
basement of each corridor are punishment-cells, baths, and store-rooms. Above the basement are three tiers
of cells, one over another, thirty-six in each storey, and consequently 108 in each corridor. Only one corridor
being appropriated for females, there are only 108 cells for them. The area of each cell is 13 by 7 feet,
and 10 feet high, well lighted, warmed, and ventilated. There are four exercising grounds or yards. The
prison is fireproof, supplied with water from cisterns on the roof, and with gas from the Corporation Gas-
works. The silent system is adopted, and the punishment is by work on the cranks; labour is permitted
at trades and handicrafts. The gaol is managed by a governor and about thirty officers, Superior and
subordinate. March 9. A fire in Bateman's Buildings, Deansgate, destroyed old property to the extent of
nearly £2000. The old “Manchester Poor-law Union” was dissolved on the 25th March ; and “the Township
of Manchester” has since stood in its place, a board of guardians being elected annually. An extensive fire,
March 21, at the warehouses of Messrs. J. P. and E. Westhead and Co., Piccadilly, opposite the Royal
Infirmary ; the damage amounting to £90,000; but the property was insured to the extent of £85,000, so
that the loss was about £5000. A falling wall killed one fireman, and another died from injuries received.
April 1. A public meeting was held in the Town Hall, convened by the mayor on requisition of 900 signatures,
to consider the propriety of petitioning parliament for a general system of secular education in Lancashire, to
be supported by local rates, and managed by local authorities specially elected by the ratepayers. The Rev.
Hugh Stowell moved, as an amendment on a resolution to that effect, that any general education in this country
must be Christian in character, and praying parliament to reject the bill. The original motion was carried by
a large majority. Subsequently several meetings were held in the Free Trade Hall, the open air, etc., in
which the decision was the other way. April 2. Lord John Russell, then premier, visited Manchester, and
was the guest of Sir Benjamin Heywood, bart., Claremont, and visited various manufactories and other works in
the town and neighbourhood, the Peel Park, etc., receiving addresses from the magistrates and corporation
of Manchester and Salford, the Chamber of Commerce, the Commercial Association, etc. Lord John and his
lady left Manchester on the 5th April. April 5. St. Philip's Church, Bradford Road, was consecrated by the
bishop of Manchester. It has 1060 sittings, of which 560 are free. In April the Hall of Science, Camp Field,
was purchased by Mr. John Potter, mayor of Manchester, for £1200, for conversion into the Manchester Free
Library. The first election of fifteen guardians for the township (late the union) of Manchester took place in
|May ; twelve of the fifteen being ex-guardians of the Manchester Union. An election of churchwardens for the
parish of Manchester in vestry on Easter Tuesday having been declared illegal by the Court of Queen's
Bench, another election was made on May 30. In July public meetings were held in Manchester and Salford,
and in many other Lancashire towns, at which subscriptions were commenced for the erection of statues to
the memory of Sir Robert Peel, who died July 2. The results of these subscriptions were the bronze statue
of Sir Robert on the Royal Infirmary Esplanade, Manchester, and the bronze statue of the statesman in Peel
Park, Salford. The seventh yearly congress of the British Archæological Association was held in Manchester
on Monday August 19, and five following days, in the Town Hall, in connection with which a temporary
museum of antiquities was opened in the Manchester Mechanics' Institute; James Heywood, esq., M.P.,
F.R.S. and F.S.A., presided. On Tuesday parties of the association visited Whalley, Ribchester, and Preston;
on Wednesday, Furmess Abbey and Lancaster; on Thursday, a public breakfast at Lancaster, Hornby Castle,
and in the evening papers at Manchester; on Friday papers, and in the evening dinner at the Albion Hotel. On
Saturday Chetham's Hospital was visited, and various papers read at the Town Hall. Various votes of thanks
closed the congress. October 22. The trustees under Mr. Owens's will appointed Mr. A. J. Scott, M.A., professor
of the English language and literature in University College, London, to the principalship of Owens College, Man-
chester. The Manchester Exchange Extension, completed in November 1850, at a cost of £86,000. On
Wednesday, October 30, a secular education conference of delegates from various parts of England was held in
the lecture theatre of the Mechanics' Institution, Cooper Street, and a public meeting in connection with it
in the Corn Exchange, Hanging Ditch, on the evening of Thursday, October 31, at which resolutions were
passed declaring the existing educational provision in this country very defective in amount and quality; that
it was desirable to establish schools on the secular plan ; that such schools ought to be supported by local
rates and managed by local authorities specially elected by the ratepayers, and that the system would
be eminently practicable, easy of adoption, and beneficial in results. At the conference “The Lancashire
Public School Association ” was converted into the “National Public School Association.” November 1.
“The National Public School Association” held its first meeting. November 4. The Salford Royal
Museum and additional rooms were formally opened by the mayor of Salford, in the presence of Joseph
Brotherton, esq., M.P., and many other gentlemen. November 7. A special general meeting of the
2 Z
354 (Tije Đătoru of £antagijire.
Chamber of Commerce was held, at which it was resolved to send out a mission to India to ascertain the
real obstacles preventing an ample supply of good cotton from that country. It was resolved to send
out Mr. Alexander Mackay, with letters of introduction to the Bombay Chamber of Commerce,
etc. In November, meetings of the clergy of the town and parish and of the inhabitants were held to
protest against the “papal aggression,” the result of the pope's bull of September 24, establishing a Roman
Catholic hierarchy in England, in which the archbishop and bishops had territorial titles given to them.
On the 24th November the Church Reform Association, formed on the 12th March 1847 for the reform
of the ecclesiastical arrangements of the parish—the Parish of Manchester Division Act having passed—
met and dissolved the association. In December Archibald Sandeman, esq., M.A., Fellow and Tutor of
Queen's College, Cambridge, was appointed professor of mathematics and natural philosophy in Owens
College, and Joseph G. Greenwood, esq., B.A., Fellow of University College, London, professor in Owens College
of the languages and literature of Greece and Rome, and of ancient and modern history. December 16.
The Hon. Abbott Lawrence, United States minister plenipotentiary to the court of St. James's, visited
Manchester, December 16th and three following days, being the guest of Alexander Henry, esq., M.P., at
the Woodlands, and received a cordial welcome from the representatives of the principal municipal and com-
mercial bodies at the Town Hall, the Exchange, etc. .
1851. January 10. The mill of Messrs. Wallace, Watchurst, and Thompson, Chepstow Street, destroyed by
fire; damage about £30,000. February 10. Public meeting in the Corn Exchange, in support of the National
Public School Association. March 12. Opening of Owens College, founded under the will of John Owens,
esq. (dated 31st May 1845), who died 29th July 1846, bequeathing £100,000 for its foundation. Students
to be admitted without any religious test whatever. The trustees under the will—Messrs. George
Faulkner, Alderman Watkins, Samuel Alcock, Alderman Neild, James Heywood, M.P., Alexander Kay,
Samuel Fletcher, John Frederick Foster, and Mark Philips—appointed a sub-committee of their number to
draw up and report on a plan, which they adopted ; they leased the house till then occupied by Mr. Richard
Cobden, at the lower end of Quay Street, and having engaged competent professors and teachers, opened the
college formally, under the principalship of Professor A. J. Scott, M.A., on Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday,
March 12, 13, and 14. On Wednesday the professor examined and admitted students; and on Thursday a
crowded meeting was held in the lecture-room, at which Professor Greenwood read an introductory lecture to
his course on the languages of Greece and Rome. Other introductory addresses on that and the following days
Suitably opened this collegiate institution. March 25. Nine persons were killed by a boiler-explosion at the
steam saw-mills of Mr. Thomas Williamson, Riga Street. At the inquest (April 10) a verdict of manslaughter
was found as against Mr. Williamson and Thomas Egerton, his engineer. April 26. Opening of the Methodist
New Connection Chapel, Strangeways. April 28. Colonel Clowes laid the foundation-stone of St. Paul's
Church, Kersal Moor. The Diocesan Church Building Society instituted May 1. The Jews' school, Cheetham
Hill Road, inaugurated May 22. June 16. The foundation-stone laid of St. Mark's Church, Hulme. June
22. Great storm of thunder and lightning. June 30. By the death of his father Edward, 13th earl, Lord
Stanley (afterwards premier) succeeded as 14th earl of Derby. August 6. Heavy storms of thunder, lightning,
and rain. August 28. Soirée at the Town Hall to the promoters of the “Manchester and Salford Boroughs
Education Bill,” the bishop of Manchester presiding, and resolutions were adopted approving the bill. Sep-
tember 17. Meeting of the friends of voluntary education, and Mr. E. Baines read a paper—“Remarks on the
two Manchester Plans of Education,” which opposed both, and urged the adoption of the voluntary system.
September 14 and two following days, fifty-two Sardinian workmen visited Manchester, inspected various
cotton-mills and other manufacturing establishments, returning to London September 17. September 22. A
dinner was given to John Potter, esq., mayor of Manchester, at which he was presented with a testimonial
service of plate, valued at a thousand guineas. October 3. Principal Scott of Owens College delivered his
inaugural address in the Town Hall. October 9. Her Majesty Queen Victoria, His Royal Highness Prince
Albert, the Prince of Wales, and Princess Alice, arrived on a short visit at Worsley Hall, the seat of the earl
of Ellesmere. On the 10th the Queen and royal party visited Manchester and Salford, when the corporations
presented loyal addresses. Her Majesty entered Salford first, and in the Peel Park 70,000 Sunday scholars
sang the national anthem. The royal cortège passed through the chief streets of Manchester to the Royal
Exchange, which had been fitted up and decorated for the occasion, a throne being placed at the upper end,
next St. Ann's Square. After receiving the address, the Queen knighted Sir John Potter. During the day,
displays of triumphal arches, banners, flags, etc., were numerous; in the evening the illuminations were almost
universal, with devices and mottoes in gas, transparencies, etc. In the evening a distinguished party was
invited at Worsley Hall. On Saturday, October 11, in the morning, Prince Albert visited the cotton-mills of
Messrs. Gardner and Bazley, Halliwell, near Bolton; while her Majesty received addresses from the teachers
and scholars of the Sunday schools in and near Worsley. The royal party afterwards left Worsley Hall by
the earl of Ellesmere's barge to Patricroft, and thence by special train to London, reaching Windsor Castle
that evening. In attendance on her Majesty during this visit were the dukes of Wellington and Norfolk, the
earls of Derby, Wilton, etc. On the evening of Monday the 13th, a grand ball in honour of the Queen's visit was
#umbren of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arisiſ. 355
given in the Manchester Royal Exchange. November 11. M. Louis Kossuth visited Manchester, and was
received with great enthusiasm, especially by the working classes, and at a large meeting in the Free Trade
Hall. December 1. A meeting was held of the general council of the National Public School Association,
followed by a public meeting in the Corn Exchange, when resolutions passed in favour of secular education.
December 2. A meeting was held of the promoters of the Manchester and Salford Education Bill in the Free
Trade Hall, at which it was stated that the signatures of nearly half the male ratepayers had been obtained
in its favour. December 4. A deputation from the committee promoting the bill had an interview with Lord
John Russell on the subject. His lordship expressed himself greatly in favour of the principles of the bill.
December 3. A conference of delegates was held at the Spread Eagle on the proposed reform-bill of Lord
John Russell, and a public meeting was held in the evening at the Free Trade Hall, at which resolutions were
passed in favour of household suffrage, triennial parliaments, re-distribution of seats, and the ballot.
1852. In January Father Gavazzi delivered several orations at the Free Trade Hall. Meetings were
held in January, on the 19th, of unemployed machine-men and labourers, in the People's Institute, Heywood
Street ; on the 20th, in Newall's Buildings, on reform ; and in the Free Trade Hall, to petition against the
government grant to the Roman Catholic College of Maynooth. On the 4th and 5th February great floods
occurred, owing to several days' fall of heavy rains causing the rivers to overflow, and the waters to spread
over the adjacent lands. The village of Holmfirth near Huddersfield was wrecked by the floods caused by
the bursting of the Bilberry Dam reservoir; many lives were lost, and an immense amount of mill and other
property destroyed. February 26. A public meeting was held in the Town Hall, and a subscription
originated for the relief of the sufferers by the Holmfirth catastrophe. February 23 commenced a musical
festival of five days in the old and temporary Free Trade Hall; after which the building was taken down
for the erection on its site of the new Free Trade Hall. In March the hackney-coach fares were reduced.
In April new city omnibuses were introduced, larger and more commodious than the old ones, without doors,
drawn by three horses abreast very lightly harnessed, and having conductor, bell, etc.; usual fares to the
suburbs, two to three miles, 3d. inside, 2d, outside. Two classes were built, the Smaller holding seventeen,
the larger nineteen inside passengers. April 13. A great fire at Messrs. Cooper and Brother's, patent candle
manufacturers, Hatton's Court, Chapel Street, Salford. May 8. The Peel statue in the Peel Parkinaugurated.
June 7. A dramatic festival in aid of the local charities. June 21. A great storm of thunder and lightning.
July 8. Another severe thunderstorm ; four men killed by the lightning in Ridgway Street. August 14. A
poll, under the act, successful for a Free Library. August 31. Grand banquet of the Guild of literature and
art. September 2. Opening of the Manchester Public Free Library, Camp Field; this library was established
by public subscription in 1851, during the mayoralty of Sir John Potter, who was the most active promoter,
if not the originator of the institution. The building called the Hall of Science, built by the Socialists, etc.,
at a cost of more than £5000, was purchased in freehold for £2147 ; and its alteration, repair, and fitting-up
for a library, cost £4816, making the total expenditure for the building and its furniture £6963. It has two
departments—a lending library in a large room on the principal floor, where is also a news-room and reading-
room ; and a library for reference (the books in which are not allowed to circulate) on the first floor, in a
large room, which is also a reading-room for reference-books. At the opening the reference department
contained 16,013 volumes, the lending library 5300, or in all 21,300 volumes in the library. Mr. Edward
Edwards, formerly of the British Museum, was the first librarian; he was succeeded in 1858 by Mr. Samuel
Smiles; and he, in 1862, by Mr. A. Crestadoro. September 14. A marble statue of the late Mr. Thomas
Fleming, placed at the east end of the south aisle of the choir of Manchester Cathedral. September 28. At
a public meeting in the Town Hall, a subscription was originated for a statue in Manchester to the duke of
Wellington. In September the distribution was made of the medals of the Great Exhibition of 1851 to the
Manchester exhibitors. November 9. A severe shock of earthquake was felt in Manchester and the
neighbourhood, about 4h. 30m, A.M.; it was also felt at Liverpool, Holyhead, etc.
1853. January 4. The Manchester and Salford Waterworks Company was dissolved. January 7. Public
dinner in the Town Hall to Hon. Mr. Buchanan and Hon. J. R. Ingersoll, American plenipotentiaries to the
Court of St. James's, February 14. Foundation-stone laid on the west side of Rochdale Road of a new chapel
connected with the Manchester Domestic Mission. March 7. The shop of Mr. Howard, jeweller, corner of
Market Place and Corporation Street, robbed of nearly all its valuable stock at mid-day. March 9. Another
extensive robbery at the shop of Mr. Ollivant, jeweller, corner of Exchange Street and St. Mary's Gate.
March 29. Manchester was created a city by royal charter. April 14. A boiler-explosion at the Regent Road
Mill, Salford, by which one man was killed. April 26. A bazaar was opened in the Exchange Rooms, in aid
of the fund for promoting the ocean penny-postage. July 22. A public meeting in the Town Hall to promote
the establishment of an asylum for idiots in the northern counties. September 25. Severe gales, by which
much damage was done to the fruit and other trees, and to buildings, chimneys, etc. October 1. The new
building (in connection with the former residence of Lark Hill) for the Salford Royal Borough Library and
Museum, Peel Park, was opened. October. A marble statue of Humphrey Chetham, by Theed, was placed
at the east end of the north choir aisle of the Manchester Cathedral,—a memorial presented by Mr. George
356 Çür #istorm of 3Lancashire.
Pilkington (formerly a bluecoat-school boy, educated on Chetham's foundation), at a cost of £1000 : Mr.
Bilkington afterwards contributed a handsome stained-glass memorial window, behind the statue. October
10. The Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone, chancellor of the exchequer, and Mrs. Gladstone, visited Manchester;
the chancellor received addresses from the Corporation, the Chamber of Commerce, and the Commercial
Association. October 12. The Peel statue (bronze) on the Infirmary Esplanade, was publicly inaugurated;
Mr. Gladstone took part in the proceedings, November 14. Opening soirée of the Salford Mechanics' Insti-
tution. November 16. Public meeting in the Corn Exchange, to express sympathy with Turkey against Russia.
1854. January 6 and following days, heavy snow-storms, by which railway and other traffic was
much impeded. January 18. Public meeting in the Mechanics' Institution, Cooper Street, of the National
Public School Association. March 1. The large warehouse of Messrs. Rylands and Sons, New High Street,
destroyed by fire. April 26 was observed as a day of humiliation and prayer. April 28. The old factory—
one of, if not the oldest in the town—in Miller's Lane, destroyed by fire. July 24. Meeting of the
Manchester and Salford Temperance Society at the Friends' Meeting-House, Mount Street, to promote the
closing of public-houses on Sundays. August 1. Anti-slavery meeting in the Athenæum Library Hall.
September 2. The bishop of Manchester laid the foundation-stone of St. Paul's Church, Hulme. October 17
and 18. Very heavy wind-storms, doing great damage. October 25. Extensive fire in the warehouse of
Messrs. Thodé and Co., Smithy Lane, Lower King Street. On the same day a great meeting of the council
of the United Kingdom Alliance was held in the Athenæum. December 13. A public meeting was held
at the Town Hall, at which was originated the Manchester and Salford Baths and Laundries Company.
December 18. A public meeting in the Town Hall on the war in the Crimea.
1855. January 13. Seven men were convicted at the Sessions of keeping a money-club lottery.
January 25. The new Cheetham Town Hall, on the Cheetham Hill Road, was inaugurated. It contains a
large room on the first floor, suitable for meetings, lectures, concerts, etc., and public offices for the township
on the ground-floor. February 27. A peace meeting was held in Newall's Buildings, and others were held
at intervals for several weeks. June 4. General Sir Harry Smith, at the Regent Road Barracks, presented
medals to those officers and men of the 51st Regiment who fought in the Burmese war. Two days
afterwards Lady Willshire presented a new pair of colours to the same regiment. June 8. By a boiler-
explosion on the premises of Mr. Wood, wood-turner, Crown Court, Blackfriars Street, Salford, a boy was
killed. July 15. A great open-air meeting was held in Stevenson's Square, with a view to re-organise the
Chartist movement. July 26. The bronze statue of Dr. Dalton was inaugurated on the Infirmary Esplanade.
August 8. An extensive robbery from the Stamp Office, Cross Street, of stamps to the amount of £1700, was
discovered this morning; the thieves escaped detection. The commissioners required the distributor of stamps
to make good the loss. September 3. The bishop of Manchester laid the foundation-stone of the new St.
Mary's Hospital, Quay Street. September 5. The foundation-stone of the new workhouse for the township
of Manchester, at Crumpsall, was laid by Mr. C. H. Rickards, the chairman of the board of guardians.
November 2. Inaugural dinner of the Railway Club, at the Clarence Hotel, Spring Gardens. December 11.
Meeting at the Town Hall, at which a subscription was originated for a statue to James Watt on the
Infirmary Esplanade. December 28. A destructive fire amongst the warehouses in High Street and Marsden
Square.
1856. January 17. A public meeting in the Town Hall to promote the “Nightingale Fund.” January
19. Soirée at the Gorton Locomotive Works to celebrate the opening of its educational institution. February
27. A public meeting was held in the Salford Town Hall, Mr. S. Heelis, mayor, in the chair, to oppose the
police bill. March 28. The first game of chess ever played by telegraph in England came off this evening
between the Chess Clubs of Manchester and Liverpool. May 29. Great rejoicings and demonstrations on the
proclamation of peace between England and Russia. June 27. A meeting at the Town Hall to commence
subscriptions in Manchester for the relief of the sufferers by the inundations in France. August 30. The
duke of Wellington memorial on the Infirmary Esplanade was inaugurated. August. The foundation-
stone of the new Mechanics' Institution, Pendleton, was laid by Mr. J. Ashworth. September 9. At the
handsome new building of the Manchester Mechanics' Institution, David Street, a fine and extensive
exhibition of art-manufactures, etc., was opened. September 24. The spire of an Independent chapel in
Broughton fell and did damage to the extent of £1000. October 8. The new Free Trade Hall was
inaugurated by a soirée, Mr. George Wilson presiding. October 31. At the building for the Art Treasures
Exhibition, Old Trafford, an accident led to the loss of one life, six or eight other workmen being injured.
October 10. The opening of the new St. Mary's Hospital, Quay Street ; the countess of Wilton presided.
November 20. A meeting at the Free Trade Hall to promote the abolition of capital punishment. December 2.
The first meeting in Manchester on the Maine Liquor Law was held in the Free Trade Hall.
1857. January 16. The funeral of Joseph Brotherton, esq., M.P. (who died suddenly, January 7), took
place at the Salford New Borough Cemetery, New Barns, Weaste, Eccles New Road. February 25. Meeting
at the Free Trade Hall in favour of the ballot. [The great local event of this year, the Exhibition of Art
Treasures in the Crystal Palace, Old Trafford, is noticed separately. July 1. Prince Napoleon and suite
#umbret of Šalfort—ſºlanchester parish. 357
arrived in Manchester, and visited the Exhibition. August 6. The Manchester and Salford Reformatory in
Blackley opened. August 13 and 14. Considerable damage sustained from floods, the consequence of very
heavy rains on these days. September 1. Rev. Dr. Livingstone, the African traveller, visited Manchester ;
he was received by the Chamber of Commerce, etc., at the Town Hall in the morning, and a welcome was
given him in Grosvenor Street Chapel in the evening. October 7. Observed as a day of fasting and
humiliation, in reference to the Indian mutiny and massacres; collections were made at the various churches
and chapels in aid of the Indian Relief Fund. Tecember 10. A gentleman on the Exchange had his pocket
picked of bank-notes to the amount of £3160. A foreigner was apprehended the same day, and all the
stolen notes were found on his person. December 13. The Siamese Ambassadors visited Manchester.
ART TREASURES EXELIBITION.
The great local event of this year—which was also national in character—was the Exhibition of the Art Treasures of the
United Kingdom, in a Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, Manchester. The conception of this exhibition is due to Mr. J. C. Deane,
in a letter to Mr. Thomas Fairbairn, of February 10, 1856. A preliminary meeting was held in the mayor's parlour on the 28th
March, at which suggestions of Mr. Deane and Mr. P. Cunningham, F.S.A., were read, and it was resolved that it was desirable
to hold such exhibition in 1857; that a guarantee-fund be formed (which in a month exceeded £60,000, thirty-two gentlemen
putting their names down for £1000 each, and sixty for £500 each), and this was soon increased to £74,000. At a meeting of
subscribers to this fund on the 20th May, it was announced that the Queen was graciously pleased to grant her patronage to the
undertaking, and H.R.H. the Prince Consort also expressed his desire to do all in his power to promote the success of the under-
taking. It was then determined to hold the exhibition in 1857. The guarantee-fund subscribers constituted the general committee
of the exhibition, with the earl of Ellesmere, then lord-lieutenant of the county, for president, and Mr. James Watts, then mayor,
for chairman of the council. It was also resolved that the following seven gentlemen should be the executive committee, with
large powers of action —The chairman of the general council (ex: officio); Messrs. Thomas Ashton, William Entwisle, Thomas
Fairbairn (who was appointed chairman), Joseph Heron, Edward Potter, and Sigismund J. Stern. May 24. Mr. J. C. Deane was
appointed general commissioner, at a salary at the rate of £1000 per annum ; Mr. C. H. Minchin (and afterwards Colonel Hamilton),
general Secretary, at a salary of £300 per annum; and a banking-account was opened with the Branch Bank of England in
Manchester, on the security of the guarantee-fund. Numerous plans for the building were sent in, and that of Messrs. C. D. Young
and Co., of Edinburgh, was adopted, and a provisional contract was made with them for its completion by the 1st January 1857,
with penalties if not completed by the 15th of the month. The site at Old Trafford was secured by arrangements for a rental for
two years with Sir Thomas Joseph de Trafford, and the payment of £1300 to the Manchester Cricket Club for the surrender of
the lease and immediate possession of the ground. The contractors took possession of the ground on 3d July 1856. In the
construction of the buildings there were used 650 tons of cast and 600 of wrought iron, 1000 loads of timber, 65,000 square
feet of glass in skylights and transept windows, 1,500,000 bricks, and 20,000 square yards of calico in lining the walls and roofs.
An excellent letter from the Prince Consort to the earl of Ellesmere, strongly urging owners of fine works of art to lend them to
this exhibition, led to very numerous contributions from public galleries and private collections of the finest works of art and articles
of virtu in the three kingdoms. Mr. George Scharf, F.S.A., was appointed art-secretary, and to his care were entrusted the selection,
classification, and arrangement of the contributions to the galleries of ancient masters. In October Mr. J. B. Waring was appointed
to direct the department of the general museum of art. The exhibition was classed and arranged in ten departments:—1. Pictures
by ancient masters; 2. Pictures by modern masters; 3. British portraits and miniatures; 4. Water-colour drawings; 5. Sketches
and original drawings (ancient); 6. Engravings; 7. Illustrations of photography; 8. Works of Oriental art; 9. Varied objects of
Oriental art; and 10. Sculpture. Mr. E. Holmes, M.A., was engaged to collect and arrange the best examples of water-colour
drawings, etc. He died, unfortunately, shortly after the opening of the exhibition, Mr. J. M. Kemble, F.S.A., was appointed to
collect and arrange a museum of Celtic and Anglo-Saxon antiquities, and he died at Dublin while in the discharge of this duty.
Mr. P. H. Delamotte, F.S.A., undertook the arrangement, etc., of No. 7 ; and Dr. Royle, F.R.S., of Nos. 8 and 9. The hanging
of the modern pictures was entrusted to Mr. A. Egg, A.R.A., who had valuable aid from Mr. Creswick, R.A. Mr. Peter Cunningham
had the direction of the British portrait-gallery. The arrangement of the sculpture was specially confided to Mr. Robert
Dudley. Mr. J. R. Planché arranged the armour, etc. Mr. Dominic Colnaghi greatly aided Mr. Holmes, especially in
the department of engravings. The Soulages collection was purchased for £13,500, and formed part of the collection. Mr.
Charles Hallé's offer to form a permanent daily orchestra, with choral performances at the inauguration, etc., was accepted.
In addition to the original plan, a gallery 200 feet long at the west end of the building for water-colour drawings was erected.
The General Museum of Art was disposed chiefly in cases on the sides of the central hall. From the entrance up to the large group
of sculpture in front of the orchestra, a clear central avenue was left of 24 feet, flanked by two ranges of statues and sculpture, and
towards the upper end by figures in armour, on horseback and on foot. The General Museum was separated into two main
divisions; the cases on the south side the hall containing the contributions from individuals, those on the north side the contributions
of the Department of Science and Art, and the Soulages Collection ; the cases on the South side were—A, glass; B, enamels; C,
porcelain, Sévres, Dresden, and old English ; D, Oriental china; E, Majolica ware, etc. : F, metal work ; G, goldsmiths' work ;
H, Sculpture in bronze, terra cotta, etc. ; I, carvings in ivory; J, armour and arms; K, specimens of bookbinding ; L and M,
contributions of Mr. Joseph Mayer of Liverpool. In seven wall-cases were exhibited various curiosities, personal ornaments, enamels,
medallions, glyptics, arms, etc. The cases on the north side were N and O, works of art in gold and silver; P, miniatures of the
Buonaparte family; R and R, armour and arms; Q, the Douce ivories; S, S, S, parts of the Soulages collection; T, majolica, etc.
from Lord Hastings; V to Y, the contributions of the Department of Science and Art. Four wall-cases contained specimens of
Wedgewood, majolica, jewelled wares, locks and keys, etc.; and two others a collection of Celtic ornaments and objects for domestic
use. Fine examples of tapestry, chiefly from the Royal Collections, were hung round the transepts. Mr. Donald contracted to
Supply refreshments, and 1st and 2d class rooms were built outside the Exhibition palace, that for the 1st class adjoining the open
court leading to the Botanical Gardens, and the 2d class adjoining the railway corridor leading to the palace, and to the latter a large
tent was subsequently added. The directors of the Manchester South Junction and Altringham Railway built a commodious
station connecting the building with the railway by a corridor, at the end of which was a covered platform 800 feet Jong. The
Exhibition building (the basement plate of the first pillar having been laid on the 13th August) was duly completed, and the first
packing-case was received within it on the 3d March 1857. On the 4th May every contribution was within its walls, so that within
ten months from breaking ground the palace itself, and all its surrounding buildings, covering more than 18,000 Square yards, had
been erected and decorated, and 16,000 objects of art collected, packed, conveyed from all parts of the kingdom, and classified and
arranged ready for exhibition. The original contract for the building proper was £24,500. Its general plan was in the form of a
parallelogram, 700 by 200 feet; its length being from east to west, and the southern side being about 250 feet from the adjacent
railway. This vast space was covered by five roofs, the centre one semicircular and 56 feet span; the two Outer Ones also semicircular
and 45 feet span ; the intermediate ones of the ordinary hip construction and each 24 feet span. At a distance of 460 feet from the
main or east entrance was a transept 104 feet in width ; the centre arch, forming the roof of the great central hall, had a height of 65
358 . (Iije Đistory of £antagijire.
feet; the avenues of 48 feet and those of 24 feet width had a centre height equal to the respective widths. The outer side walls of
the building were of corrugated iron ; the inner walls and both picture-galleries were of wood. Along the centre of each roof was a
skylight its entire length, and equal in width to one-third of the span of the roof, or of the floor-space below. During the summer
months all the skylights of the picture-galleries were covered externally with calico to protect the paintings from the effects of the
Sun's rays. The building was lined throughout internally, both walls and roofs, with boarding ; on the walls this was covered with
calico, and on this were placed the paper-hangings. There was a gallery at the E. end of the building called the clock-gallery, and
the transept was also surrounded by galleries 24 feet wide. The total floor-space finally obtained was 19,000 square yards. The east
façade up to the springing of the arches was in red and white bricks, and was designed by Mr. Edward Salomons, architect to the
Executive Committee. The ends of the three semicircular roofs were filled in with oval designs in wood, iron, and glass. Various
additional works were executed by Messrs. Young, raising their payment to £39,001. Mr. J. C. Crace of London executed the
internal decorations, except the rooms for the reception of the Queen and other royal visitors, which were decorated and furnished
by Messrs. Jackson and Graham of London. At the end of the great hall was an orchestral gallery or platform, above which rose an
organ of great size and power, since placed in the Free Trade Hall. In the arch over the entrance was the line from Keats—“A
thing of beauty is a joy for ever ;” and at the opposite end that of Pope—“To wake the soul by tender strokes of art.” The walls
of the central hall were of maroon red; those of the picture-galleries were a paper of simple pattern of dull sage green, the dado
below being maroon. On the side of the gallery of ancient pictures, beyond the transept, was a court 72 by 48 feet, in which were
arranged the Hertford collection of pictures, and on the other side the hall the Oriental court of like size. The walls of the long
west [floor] gallery and two smaller courts adjoining, which contained the collection of water-colour drawings, had walls of a neutral
gray with ceiling of light cream-colour. Such was the casket for the Art Treasures, and within it were collected, before its opening-
day (May 5, 1857)—
1,173 Ancient Pictures.
689 Modern Pictures.
386 Portraits.
969 Water-colour Drawings.
260 Sketches and Original Drawings.
1,475 Engravings.
500 Miniatures. .
597 Photographs, and
63 Architectural Drawings.
5,812 Pictorial Works of Art, and
10,000 Objects of Art in the General Museum, besides
160 Pieces of Sculpture; making a total of
15,972
Afterwards increased to more than sixteen thousand objects of art. Of these it would be vain to attempt any description. Volumes
have been written specially on the subject, and to these we must refer the reader who desires to have a clear idea of the extent and
the quality of this vast collection of priceless treasures. -
The exhibition was formally inaugurated by His Royal Highness the Prince Consort (notwithstanding the death of the duchess of
Gloucester on the 30th April) on Tuesday the 5th May 1857. The Prince was the guest of James Watts, esq., at Abney Hall, and
accompanied by his suite, and escorted by a squadron of dragoons, he left there at 1 P.M., and was met on the road by the Right Hon.
the earl of Burlington, lord-lieutenant (the earſ of Ellesmere having died, and his post as president of the exhibition council being filled
by Lord Overstone); William Atkinson and Charles Towneley, esq.S., the Sheriffs of Cheshire and Lancashire. At the boundary of
the borough of Manchester the Right Rev. the Lord Bishop, Lieutenant-General Sir Harry Smith, G.C.B., commanding the northern
and midland districts, his staff, and the municipal authorities, joined the procession, which passed along the Oxford Road and the
Stretford Road to the exhibition building, where His Royal Highness arrived about 2 o'clock, and was received by Lord Overstone,
president of the council, and the chairman and members of the executive committee, Mr. J. C. Deane, Colonel Hamilton, etc., and
conducted to the royal reception-room. At a dais near the entrance the mayor of Manchester and various members of the corporation
presented an address to the Prince, to which His Royal Highness made a suitable reply. The Prince then passed up the central hall
to the dais in the transept prepared for his reception; the large and fine orchestra, directed by Mr. Charles Hallé, playing the
national anthem. His Royal Highness having taken his place on the dais, the same anthem was sung. . Then the address from
the executive committee was presented, and His Royal Highness replied. The orchestra performed Haydn's chorus, “The Heavens
are telling.” The bishop of Manchester offered prayer, invoking a blessing on the undertaking, and the Orchestra then performed
the hundredth psalm. A procession was then marshalled, led by Captain Palin, chief-constable of Manchester ; the contractors,
engineers, architects, decorators, the general commissioners and the secretary; the heads of departments, the members of the Man-
chester corporation, the mayor of Salford, the subscribers to the guarantee-fund, the representatives in parliament of the city of
Manchester, the borough of Salford, and the county of Lancaster; the High-sheriff of Cheshire; the general commanding the district,
and his staff, the bishop of Manchester, the Lord-Lieutenant and the High-sheriff of Lancashire, the chairman and members of the
executive committee, the president of the council, His Royal Highness Prince Albert and suite, followed by members of the ministry,
foreign ambassadors and ministers, the heads of learned societies, etc. During the moving of this procession through the building
the orchestra played the grand march from Athalie and a selection from Handel’s ode to St. Cecilia (Madame Clara Novello taking
the solo); His Royal Highness having returned to the dais, declared the exhibition open ; and the ceremonial concluded with
the orchestra's performance of the Hallelujah Chorus. The prince afterwards visited such parts of the exhibition as could not well
be entered by the procession, and left much gratified with all he saw and with his enthusiastic reception by the vast crowds
assembled both within and without the building.
On Tuesday the 30th June 1857, her Majesty the Queen visited the exhibition, being, during her stay in this neighbourhood,
the guest of the earl and countess of Ellesmere at Worsley Hall. The Queen, with their Royal Highnesses the Prince Consort, the
Prince of Wales, the Princess Royal, Prince Alfred, Princess Alice, and Prince Frederick-William of Prussia, left Worsley Hall
about nine o'clock, with the royal suite, etc., in six carriages, escorted by the Lancashire Yeomanry, and preceded by the private
carriages of the earl of Ellesmere, the earl of Burlington, Charles Towneley, esq., etc. The route was through Worsley, Swinton,
Irlam's-o'-th’-Height, Pendleton, and Salford. At Cross Lane the royal cortège was met by Lord Overstone, Lieutenant-General
Sir Harry Smith, etc.; the escort was changed for a squadron of the 4th Dragoon Guards, commanded by Colonel Hodge, C.B., and
entered the city of Manchester by Albert Bridge, where the mayor of Manchester and the town-clerk met the royal party. ...The
procession passed through the city by the following routes:–Bridge Street, John Dalton Street, Cross Street, St., Ann's Street
and Square, Market Street, Piccadilly, Portland Street, Oxford Street, Cavendish Street, and Stretford Road, to the Exhibition
building. Her Majesty reached the entrance at 11 o'clock, and was received by a guard of honour and a royal Salute. Her
Majesty and the royal party entered the reception-room, and were thence conducted by the president, the chairman, and members
of the executive committee along the central hall to the dais in the transept; and after the orchestra had performed the national
anthem, an address was presented to her Majesty by the chairman on behalf of the executive committee, to which her Majesty
#umbrell of Šalfort—ſºlanthester parish. 359
graciously replied. An address from the mayor and corporation of Manchester was next read by the Recorder and presented, and
the Queen made a gracious reply. Her Majesty and the royal party then visited the picture-galleries (which were exclusively
reserved for them), the orchestra playing Handel's Coronation Anthem. The royal visitors then returned to the transept, and were
thence conducted down the central hall to the reception-room, and, on leaving the exhibition, returned to Worsley by the same route.
The Queen and the other members of the royal family paid a lengthened private visit to the exhibition on Wednesday 1st
July, during which the public was rigidly excluded. At later periods the exhibition was visited by the king of the Belgians, with
the Princess Marie Charlotte (afterwards the consort of the ill-fated Emperor Maximilian of Mexico), and the Comte de Flandres
(now king of the Belgians); the queen of the Netherlands, their Royal Highnesses the duchess of Cambridge, the Princess Mary,
and the duke of Cambridge ; the Comte de Paris, the Duc de Nemours, and many other members of the Orleans family. The
number of visitors of various classes during the exhibition must be briefly stated. There were season-tickets of two classes (two
guineas and one guinea). The usual daily admission was 1s., but one day in the week it was 2s. 6d.; on six Saturdays, admission,
after two P.M., was 6d. ; on the day of the Queen's visit the doors were not opened for cash admission till four P. M. ; on Wednes-
day 7th October the exhibition was closed, being the day of humiliation on account of the Indian mutinies. With these limita-
tions the exhibition was open about 24 weeks or 142 days. The days on which there were more than 20,000 visitors present were
Saturday, August 22, 20,610 ; Saturday, September 12, 21,790 ; Friday, October 2, 26,701 ; Saturday, October 10, 28,535 ;
Monday, October 12, 27,721 ; and Tuesday, October 13, 29,160,—the greatest number on any one day. The highest temperatures
inside the building were 84°, 90°, 87°, 81°, and 89° Fahrenheit, on the 23d, 24th, 25th, 26th, and 27th June. The total number
of visitors registered at the turnstiles was 1,336,715; of which 1,053,538 paid at the doors, and the remainder, 283,177, were
admitted by season-tickets. Not so many visited it from a distance by (349) excursion trains as was anticipated, only 16 of these 349
trains bringing more than 1000 persons. 1,239,820 persons were conveyed to the exhibition by “Greenwood's Exhibition Omni-
buses”—a distance of three miles from Market Street—fare 3d. Nearly 400 horses and 150 men were required to work these
omnibuses. Not more than 37 schools seem to have visited it collectively. 157,250 copies of the General Catalogue were printed,
and 13,250 of the Supplemental Catalogue, besides many varieties of cheap guides, handbooks, etc., to particular departments. In
all 9562 two-guinea and 2795 one-guinea season-tickets were sold for £23,015. Mr. Charles Hallé, for £4518, formed an excellent
orchestra of 52 instrumental musicians, increased on the opening day and that of the Queen's visit to 82. For the opening a chorus of
560 voices was provided, with Clara Novello, Sims Reeves, and Weiss for solo artistes; and on the Queen's visit the two former
vocalists. The large organ was built and supplied gratuitously to the exhibition by Messrs. Kirtland and Jardine of Manchester.
Mr. Henry Walker was the organist.
The financial results of the exhibition may be thus stated —Total amount received at the doors, £60,905; general catalogues
sold, £6888 (besides £7733 for catalogues sold elsewhere); supplemental do., £337; Soulages do., £41 ; musical programmes, £239;
“Routes through Building,” £8; received for taking charge of umbrellas, parasols, sticks, etc., £1488. The receipts, then, for
season-tickets were £23,014; admission at the doors, £60,905; Catalogues, £8111; other publications, £265; refreshment contract,
g3346; umbrellas, etc., f:1488, and various smaller items; proceeds of Sale of internal fittings, December 1857, £1824; d.o. of the
building, May 1858, £6486; d.o. of timber and materials, September 1858, £623; private sales of fittings, stores, and large glass cases,
#2836; excess of cash over numbers indicated, etc., £319; total receipts, £110,588. The expenditure for land and roads was £5247;
the building, etc., £37,933; internal fittings, decorations, etc., £18,581; salaries, wages, etc., £12,467; police, £3644; packing and
conveyance of contributions to and from the building, £11,531 ; travelling expenses, £1198; advertising, placarding, etc., £2684; .
printing catalogues, £4801; general printing and stationery, £1938; office expenses, furniture, etc., £1042; rents of offices, rates
and taxes, £454; postages, telegrams, etc., £253; insurances, £1958; music, the erection of the organ, organ performances, etc.,
£5032; legal expenses, £97; interest paid to the Bank of England, £1413 ; leaving a balance of £304 in hand. There were 64
policemen on duty in the building; 42 while it was open, 11 from closing-time to 1 A.M., and 11 from 1 A.M. to 9. There were
also three detectives constantly on duty, one of whom was from Liverpool; and for the first fortnight two metropolitan detectives,
one of the City of London, one from Sheffield, and one from Birmingham. Every precaution was taken against fire, two large
mains being connected at the junction of the Chester and Stretford roads; 20 hydrants on this main, and 24 firecocks, were fixed
in and about the building, and the water was constantly at high pressure day and night. Six firemen, with engines, hose, etc.,
were employed—three by night and three by day. Hose were laid along the floor every evening. A fire-engine of the Manchester
Fire Brigade was stationed in the yard within the main building, water for which was supplied from the lake in the Botanic Gardens.
The building and its precious contents were insured against fire to a large extent ; and owing to the numerous precautions taken no
serious loss was sustained. The number of contributors of works of art, etc., to this exhibition, including Her Majesty the Queen,
H.R.H. the Prince Consort, and the king of the Belgians, was 984; in which number many large bodies, as corporations, city
companies, universities and colleges, societies, etc., are included, and only regarded respectively as one contributor. In 1858 there
was a distribution to all the contributors of a bronze medal of beautiful design and execution, in commemoration of the Exhibition
of Art Treasures in Manchester in 1857, and in recognition of the public spirit and liberality of the contributors in placing valuable
works of art, etc., at the disposal of the exhibition committee during more than five months. -
1858. January 14. A testimonial, consisting of a timepiece and box containing 300 sovereigns, was
presented to Captain Willis on his retiring from the chief constableship of Manchester. March 16. The
new warehouse of Messrs. S. & J. Watts, in Portland Street (said to have cost, with the land, £80,000),
was opened for business. March 25. The Synagogue of British Jews, at the corner of Park Place, York
Street, Cheetham Hill Road, was consecrated. April 21. A public dinner was given to Sir James Brooke,
K.C.B. (Rajah of Sarawak) at the Queen's Hotel, Piccadilly; Ivie Mackie, esq., mayor, presiding. July 2.
Tremendous boiler-explosion at the Atlas Works of Messrs. Sharp, Stewart, and Co., Great Bridgewater
Street, by which seven persons were killed, and five others seriously injured. August 5. The bronze
statue of the late Joseph Brotherton esq., M.P., in Peel Park, Salford, was publicly inaugurated. October 9.
Visit of the duke of Cambridge to Manchester. October 21. Lord John Russell delivered an address at
the soirée of the Manchester Athenaeum in the Free Trade Hall. October 30. Public funeral of the late
Sir John Potter, M.P., at the Ardwick Cemetery. November 13. The bishop of Manchester consecrated
St. Mary's Church, Hulme. November 17. The foundation-stone of the Ellesmere Memorial Column at
Worsley was laid by Mr. Fereday Smith.
1859. January 7. The cotton-waste warehouse of Mr. Perry in Blossom Street, Great Ancoats Street,
was destroyed by fire. January 11. A fire in the shop of Mr. Owen, toy-dealer, Oldham Street, damaging
goods and property to the amount of from £3000 to £4000. January 12. A testimonial (an elegant
silver centre-piece) was presented to Thomas Bazley, M.P., esq., by the members of the Chamber of Commerce.
February 1. A beer-house keeper in Albert Street, named Robinson, murdered his wife, attempted to burn
360 Ǻr 3%istory of £antagüirº.
the house, and hung himself. March 4. A public dinner in the Free Trade Hall to James A. Turner, esq.,
M.P. June 8. Inauguration of the Exhibition of lent Paintings and Works of Art in the Peel Park Museum.
June 25. The foundation-stone of St. Peter's Church, Oldham Road, laid by John Keymer, esq. July
26. Two boys, bathing in a deep pit at Moss Side, were sinking, when a man jumped in to rescue them ;
but all three were drowned. August 6. The factory-operatives of Manchester presented to the countess of
Shaftesbury a marble bust of her husband, best known in connection with the ten hours' bill as Lord Ashley.
October 4. The Cotton Supply Association and others received the Right Honourable James Wilson, previous
to his departure for India, to discuss questions connected with our Indian trade. November 1. The Right
Honourable B. Disraeli, M.P., distributed the prizes to the successful competitors at the evening class
examinations of the Mechanics' Institution in the Free Trade Hall. November 5. The bishop of Manchester
consecrated St. Catherine's Church, Collyhurst. November. Great meeting in the Free Trade Hall to
promote the volunteer movement, and to raise funds for equipping and arming the volunteer riflemen. The
subscriptions amounted to £3190 on November 21. The enrolment of volunteers continued actively throughout
December.
1860. February 2. The Hanover Mills, Buxton Street, London Road, were destroyed by fire, the damage
being estimated at £30,000. February 24. The prince of Orange visited Manchester. April 3. A portion
of the iron roofing of the Victoria Railway Station fell in, but no one was injured. April 23. Six keepers
of betting-list houses in Thomas's Street and its neighbourhood were apprehended, and the magistrates
imposed a fine of £100. May 8. The foundation-stone of a new Greek church, near Kersal, on the New
Bury Road, was laid by the Rev. B. Moro. June. Formation of a Field Naturalists' Society. July 5.
Presentation of a testimonial (a silver service, value 400 guineas) to Daniel Maude, esq., stipendiary magistrate,
on his leaving Manchester to fill one of the similar offices in London. September 15. Presentation to the
four companies of Salford volunteers, by the ladies of Salford, of silver bugles. September 17. Railway
collision at Ordsal Lane Station, by which six persons were injured. September 26. Inauguration of the
Deaf and Dumb School for Infants at the Institution for the Deaf and Dumb, Old Trafford. October 26.
Locomotive-boiler explosion at the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company's waggon-shops, Miles Platting,
from which three persons died. November 6. The duke of Argyll visited Manchester, and was present at the
meeting of the Lancashire and Cheshire Institutional Association. November 13. A meeting of the friends
of voluntary education in the Free Trade Hall. November 26. The keeper of a betting-list house in Thomas's
Street was fined £100. November 30. The empress of the French visited Manchester, saw some of the
principal warehouses and factories, and received an address from the corporation. December 6. Heavy rains
flooded the Medlock, which overflowed, doing great damage to property.
1861. January 10. A fire in the waste warehouse in Greengate Cotton-waste Mill of Mr. Peter
Andrew ; damage estimated at £7000. January 11. The Beehive Cotton-Mills, Jersey Street and Bengal
Street, were destroyed by fire ; the damage estimated at £25,000. January 31. A conference on Indian
affairs in the Board Room of the Chamber of Commerce, York Chambers, King Street. February 4. A boiler-
explosion at the paper-works of Messrs. Dickinson in Elm Street, Water Street, near the Regent Road, which
resulted in three deaths. February 8. A fire amongst a block of warehouses in a narrow street off High Street;
damage estimated at £10,000. March 9. The foundation-stone of St. Paul's Church, Chorlton-on-Medlock, was
laid by the Rev. Edward Birch. March 28. A meeting held in the Town Hall to consider parliamentary reform.
June 1. The colours formerly belonging to the first battalion of the Independent Manchester and Salford
Volunteers of 1803 (long deposited in St. John's Church) were presented to the 5th or Press Company of the
3d Manchester Rifle Volunteers. June 15. A very extensive fire at the works of Messrs. Parr, Curtis, and
Madeley, Chapel Street, Ancoats; the damage estimated at about £80,000. August 17. A destructive fire
in the Old Park Cotton-Mills; the damage stated to be several thousand pounds. August 20. A dramatic
license granted for the Free Trade Hall. August 20. A strike of about 300 carters of the carriers to obtain
shorter hours of labour. September 4 and following days, the British Association held its 31st yearly
congress or meeting in Manchester, after an interval of nineteen years; its 12th meeting being held here
in June 1842. September 19. A meeting of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce, the Cotton Supply
Association, and the Manchester Cotton Company (Limited), was held in the Town Hall, to receive and
confer with the Hon. S. Laing, previous to his return to India as finance minister. October 3. A great fire
in the waste-warehouse in the Old Factory Yard, Miller Street, Shudehill; the damage estimated at from
f10,000 to £12,000. December 23. This being the day of the funeral of H.R.H. the late Prince Consort,
there was a general cessation of business in Manchester.
1862. January 2. Extensive fire in the buildings fronting Market Street and High Street, and great damage
sustained. January 6. A meeting in the Town Hall and a subscription commenced for a monument to the
memory of the late Prince Consort. February 14. A fire in the tanyard of Mr. Nelson, Red Bank;
damage estimated at £6000 or £7000. February 19. A fire at the premises of Messrs. Nicholls, Morris,
and Co.; damage stated to be several thousand pounds. April 23. The Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone,
Chancellor of the Exchequer, visited Manchester, and was present at the distribution of prizes to the members
#umbrell of Salfort—ſhanthester Harish. 361
of the Manchester Mechanics' Institution. The next day, in the Town Hall, Mr. Gladstone addressed a large
assembly of manufacturers and commercial men upon the national finances, the American civil war, and the
French commercial treaty. April 29. Meeting of unemployed operatives in Stevenson Square; from 2000
to 3000 present. May 16. Mr. Evan Mellor, rent-collector, was murdered by a man named Taylor, whose
three children were found dead in a house in Strangeways. July 8. Mahommed Said Pacha, Viceroy of
Egypt, visited Manchester. October 24. Mr. Cobden addressed the Chamber of Commerce on international
law. November 24. The Working-Men's Dining and Cooking Depôt at Gaythorn was opened.
1863. February 14. The Bank of Manchester (Limited) was broken open, and about £1000 in notes, etc.,
stolen. July 26. The foundation-stone of the new Masonic Hall, Cooper Street, was laid. October 6. Shock
of an earthquake felt in and near Manchester. October 9. Public meeting in the Free Trade Hall to welcome
the Rev. Henry Ward Beecher, independent minister, from the United States.
1864. March 4. Fire at Messrs. Roby and Harwood's premises; damage estimated at £8000. April
19. A parliamentary reform conference opened under the presidency of Mr. George Wilson. June 15. The
foundation-stone of the Memorial Hall in Albert Square laid by Mr. Alderman Ivie Mackie, August 4. The
corner-stone of the new tower of the cathedral was laid by the bishop of Manchester. October. The
Right Hon. W. E. Gladstone, Chancellor of the Exchequer, visited Manchester. November 7. The marble
statue of H.R.H. the late Prince Consort, by Noble, placed in Peel Park, Salford.
1865. February 4. A robbery from the shop of Mr. John Howard, jeweller, Market Street, corner
of Corporation, of jewellery, etc., to the estimated value of £3000. This was the second extensive robbery
at this shop ; the former being committed in March 1853. April 4. The Princess Imperial of Brazil and the
Prince, her consort, visited Manchester. May 1. The cathedral was broken into, and the silver mace and
the contents of three poor-boxes were stolen. July 18. The shop of Mr. William M'Ferran, watchmaker and
jeweller, Victoria Street, was broken into, and watches and jewellery stolen to the estimated value of £13,000.
October 8. The Rev. Canon Stowell, M.A., rector of Christ Church, Salford, died. October 27. The queen
of the Sandwich Islands visited Manchester.
1866. January 22. A part of the iron and glass roofing of the London Road Railway Station fell,
killing two men, and severely injuring several others. March 5. Meeting of the committee of the Cobden
Memorial Fund, at which it was determined to erect a statue to his memory. A bronze statue was afterwards
placed in the centre of St. Ann's Square. May 1. Mr. John Bright, M.P., addressed a meeting of the
National Reform Union in the Free Trade Hall. May 23. An extensive fire at the warehouses of the
London and North-Western Railway Company, near Ordsall Lane; the damage was roughly estimated at
from £200,000 to £300,000. May 28. The Manchester Stamp Office was a second time broken into, and
stamps were stolen to the amount of £10,000 or £11,000. July 2. A large and commodious swimming-
bath was opened at Mayfield, 75 by 37 feet ; varying in depth from 4 to 6 feet. July 5. Mr. Rawlinson,
C.E., advised the Board of Guardians in respect to the arrangements for a new fever hospital and the pre-
parations to meet a possible visitation of cholera. July 5. The National Reform Union held a meeting in
Stevenson Square; about 2500 persons present, July 10. The 32d annual conference in connection with
the British Temperance League opened in the Friends' Meeting House, Mount Street. July 11. Annual
Meeting of the Humane Society for the Salford Hundred—R. N. Philips, esq., M.P., in the chair. July 16.
The directors of the Alexandra Hall Company were prosecuted for issuing false statements to induce the
public to take shares in that undertaking. July 18. A Reform Meeting convened by the mayor of Salford
(Wright Turner, esq.), in compliance with a requisition signed by upwards of 650 ratepayers and others, was
held in the Salford Town Hall. July 28. The foundation-stone of the Egerton Schools, Regent Road, was
laid by the Hon. Wilbraham Egerton, M.P. August 1. Meeting of the members of the Institution of
Mechanical Engineers in the Mechanics' Institution, David Street—Mr. Joseph Whitworth, president, in the
chair. August 3. Presentation of the Working Men's Testimonial to Mr. James Smith, the agent of the
Manchester and Salford District Provident Society, for his exertions during the cotton famine. August 11.
The foundation-stone of St. Gabriel's Church, Erskine Street, Hulme, was laid by the Hon. Wilbraham Egerton,
M.P. August 20. James Burrows was executed at the New Bailey Prison for the murder of John Brennan,
a servant of his father's, because he refused to lend him 10s., which he (Burrows) wanted to spend in drink.
The last execution in or near Manchester occurred in September 1798, when George Russell was hanged at
Newton Heath for robbing a bleach-croft at Scotland Bridge, Long Millgate. September 5. At a meeting of
the City Council it was decided to invite Her Majesty to visit Manchester on her way from Scotland for the
purpose of inaugurating the memorial of the late Prince Consort in Albert Square. Her Majesty declined both
this invitation and one to Liverpool. September 24. Great open-air demonstration of the northern branch of
the Reform League ; about 15,000 persons present. Mr. Bright addressed a meeting in the Free Trade Hall in
the evening. September 26. A man named Lee was kicked so severely by some “roughs” in Jersey Street,
Ancoats, that he died in a few minutes. September 29. Review of the Manchester and Salford Volunteers
at Harpurhey by Colonel Erskine. October 2. The magistrates of Manchester repealed the rule made twenty-
three years ago requiring the closing of the local theatres during Passion Week. October 3. The 10th
3 A
362 . Çiſt ºigturn of £antagüirº.
annual meeting of the Social Science Association commenced at the Assize Courts—Lord Shaftesbury
president. Its proceedings occupied a week. October 6. Opening of the Branch Free Library in Rusholme
Road. October 18. The festival of the cathedral choirs in the Manchester Cathedral. November 9. Mr.
Alderman Neill was elected mayor of Manchester, and Mr. Alderman Pochin mayor of Salford. November 16
and 17. Manchester and Salford suffered much by the floods caused by the unprecedented rising of the rivers
Irwell and Medlock, in consequence of the heavy rains of several days. November 19. A conference of the
National Reform Union was held in the Town Hall. November 20. The Great Reform Banquet was held
in the Free Trade Hall; about 1000 gentlemen dined. Mr. George Wilson presided. December 5. A
memorial to the mayor and corporation was presented to the council, signed by 365 persons and firms, urging
the necessity of preventing a recurrence of floods in the Irwell, such as the disastrous one on the 17th
November, and submitting that a careful survey of the river's course through Manchester and Salford be
made, to see what encroachments had been made on its banks or bed ; that in such survey its bridges be
included, especially the new bridge at Hunt's Bank, the Sherborne Street bridge, the old Broughton bridge,
and the bridge building in New Bridge Street, Strangeways, to ascertain as to what extent the water was
impeded by any or all of them, and what was the consequent damage to property. Also to ascertain whether
any improvement could be made in the bends of the river so as to facilitate the more rapid flow of the water,
and to provide for the diversion of any extraordinary flood before its passage through the city, by means of a
culvert or other watercourse. December 6. A testimonial, consisting of a silver centre-piece and a sum of
£800, was presented to Mr. J. W. Maclure by the members of the Central Executive Relief Committee, for
his able services gratuitously rendered during the cotton-famine of 1862-5. December 10. A compulsory
education meeting was held in the Town Hall. December 11. At a meeting held in the Town Hall £6000
was promised towards a sum of £10,000 which it had been agreed to raise for the endowment of a chair of
engineering at Owens College. December 16. Leeson and the two brothers Douglas, who were sentenced to
fifteen years' penal servitude for the Manchester Stamp Office robbery, made a disclosure which led to the
recovery of £8000 worth of the stolen property. December 18. Mr. J. W. Maclure was presented with a silver
salver and a sum of £5000, the proceeds of a general subscription in Lancashire and Cheshire, in consideration
of his services gratuitously rendered during the cotton-famine.
1867. January 7. A labourer named Parker, living in Salford, murdered one of his children, a boy
seven years of age. January 21. A meeting was held in the Free Trade Hall, in connection with a movement
for stopping the sale of intoxicating drinks on a Sunday. January 23. Inauguration of the memorial to the
late Prince Consort in Albert Square. Mrs. Goadsby presented the statue to the citizens. The mayor
accepted the memorial on behalf of the corporation, and offered the thanks of the council to Mrs. Goadsby,
and also to the memorial committee for the canopied shrine. January 28. An accident occurred at the
works of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway at Miles Platting, by which four men lost their lives.
February 1. A meeting was held to promote a movement for the extension of Owens College. It was
proposed to raise from £100,000 to £150,000, and subscriptions amounting to £25,000 were announced.
March 10. An explosion occurred at the gas-works in Rochdale Road, by which seven men were severely
injured. March 15. A man named Wheatley was stabbed by an Irishman in Levenshulme, and died two days
afterwards. April 3. A man named Wood, living in Ancoats, murdered his wife by cutting her severely with
a razor. April 18. A meeting was held in the Town Hall, condemning the interference of a committee of
the town-council in reference to the omnibus traffic in Market Street. April 22. The bronze statue of
Richard Cobden in St. Ann's Square inaugurated, and presented by Mr. George Wilson, in the name of the
subscribers, to the mayor, who accepted it on behalf of the corporation ; and the council resolved that the
mayor take the requisite steps for its preservation and protection. April 30. A volunteer bazaar opened in
the Free Trade Hall, its object being to obtain funds for building armouries, drill-sheds, etc. May 2. Mr.
Stephen Blair, provincial grand-master for East Lancashire, held a provincial grand lodge of freemasons in the
Salford Town Hall. May 8. A testimonial was presented to Dr. John Watts, in recognition of his many public
services. June 1. A combined reform demonstration, consisting of a procession of trades, etc., and an open-
air meeting, was held in Manchester. June 27. A conference of the Lancashire Conservative Association
was held in the Town Hall; among the speakers were Mr. Ferrand and Mr. Pope Hennessy. August. Mr.
Pickering, Q.C., and Messrs. Barstow and Chance, were appointed examiners, to inquire into any acts of
intimidation, outrage, or wrong, alleged to have been promoted, encouraged, or connived at by the trades-
unions or associations, whether of workmen or employers, in Manchester and the neighbourhood; and as to
the causes of such acts, and the complicity of such trades-unions or associations. The examiners held a public
inquiry at the Assize Courts, commencing on the 4th of September. September 11. At 3.20 A.M. two men, who
had been at that early hour loitering about near Smithfield Market, were apprehended by a police constable,
who had been watching them, aided by Sergeant Brears. One of them, calling himself John White, drew a
revolver loaded with bullets and capped, which was wrested from him ; and from the other, who called
himself Martin Williams, another revolver in the same condition was taken. White called himself a hatter,
and Williams a bookbinder. They were taken before the city magistrates the same day, and remanded for
#timbrely of salton–ſhangester #arisiſ, 363
a week. They were brought up again on Wednesday, September 18, and identified, Williams as Colonel Kelly,
and White as Captain Deasey, two notorious Fenian “head centres.”—Kelly being the lieutenant of Stephens,
and the man who planned and effected his escape, and Deasey well known in connection with the Fenians.
They were remanded for another week, and were sent in the prison-van, with 37 other prisoners, to the City
Gaol, about 2% miles from the court-house. Six policemen and the driver were in front outside the van,
Sergeant Brett was locked inside with the prisoners, and a cab containing four police-officers closely followed
the van. On passing under the arch of the railway across Hyde Road an attack was made on the van by a
body of 50 or 60 men, many armed with revolvers, and the others with bricks and stones. The horses were
shot, the policemen were shot at, and none of them having any weapon save their Ordinary truncheons,
they were driven back. The door of the police-van was forced open by the assailants; and then one of
the rioters demanded of Sergeant Brett the keys of the compartments of the van in which the two Fenians
were separately locked up and handcuffed. Brett refused to give up the keys; the man immediately shot
him through the head, and he died in a few hours. Three other men were wounded by shots. The
assailants then released Kelly and Deasey; four female prisoners also escaped. The alarm being given, and
reinforcements of police obtained, the fugitives were pursued, but escaped, after getting rid of their handcuffs
at Bradford, near Manchester. The police apprehended 32 prisoners during the afternoon and night, some
of respectable appearance calling themselves clerks, but the majority Irish working-men. Two men—William
O'Meara Allen, aged 20, a joiner out of work, and Michael Larkin (32) a tailor—were charged with the murder
of Brett. Government offered a reward of £300 for the apprehension of Kelly and Deasey, and the Corpora-
tion of Manchester offered £200 for the apprehension and conviction of the murderers of Brett. Another
man named John Francis M*Auliffe (26), a lecturer, when apprehended, on Wednesday, September 18, while
lounging about the court, drew a large dagger-knife and stabbed a policeman.
THE CORN.LAWS. AGITATION FOR REPEAL.
THE LEAGUE.
The agitation for the total repeal of the corn-laws, which continued for seven years, and became national
in its extent no less than its object, took its rise in Manchester; and throughout its agitation Manchester
continued to be its centre—the place where all its organisations were formed, where its funds by public
subscription were initiated, where its first local association was formed, where the league was originated,
where its council sat almost daily for years, and where the great bulk of its tons of publications were printed,
and whence they were disseminated. The repeal of the corn-laws, the greatest step towards a policy of free
trade, is consequently for ever indissolubly associated with Manchester; and it would be a strange omission
in any history of the place, if the great struggle to obtain free trade in corn were to be passed over in silence.
Our limits, however, must confine us to a brief sketch of the history of those seven years 1838–1846—a
history which the late Mr. Archibald Prentice wrote in considerable detail, in his “History of the Anti-
Corn-Law League” (2 vols. 8vo, London, 1853), to which we refer the reader who would seek more full
information on the subject than can be fittingly afforded in a county history.
It was not till the 24th November 1770 that abstracts of the weekly returns of the prices of corn sold
in various counties were published in the London Gazette. In 1772 an act repealed various restraints imposed
by old statutes on dealing in corn, etc., which restraints (says the act itself) prevented “a free trade in the
said commodities.” In 1773 the wheat grown in Great Britain (estimated at four million quarters) was not
adequate to the increased consumption consequent on a rapidly-growing population. The bounties then paid
on corn eaſyOrted were consequently suspended, and considerable quantities of foreign wheat were imported.
In 1773 a new law was passed for the regulation of the trade, which was a sliding-scale as to importation.
This act was modified by subsequent statutes. The agriculturists being dissatisfied with the act of 1773,
which admitted foreign wheat at a duty of 6d. per quarter when prices were at 48s. per quarter, asked for
more adequate “protection ;” and an act was passed in 1791, another sliding-scale, which raised the protecting
price from 48s, to 54s. But this was even less successful in keeping the ports closed than the lower sum
had been. From 1790 to 1791 the average price was 55s. 11d., being only 1s. 11d. higher than the point
at which foreign wheat was admissible. The excess of imports during these two years was 3,216,096 qrs.
From 1792 to 1803 12% million quarters of foreign grain were imported, and 2,693,461 cwts, of flour.
In 1804, a committee to inquire into the principle and operation of the Corn-Law Act of 1791, reported that
casual high prices and two productive seasons had “occasioned such a depression in the value of grain, as it
is feared will greatly tend to the discouragement of agriculture, unless maintained by the support of
parliament.” This means, by more protection. Another sliding-scale act was accordingly passed in 1804,
raising the protecting price from 54S. to 66s–an increase of 12s. It also altered the system of taking the
averages. In 1806 an act was passed “to permit the free interchange of every species of grain between
364 Çiſt ºisturg of 3Lancashire.
Great Britain and Ireland.” From 1804 to 1814 the average price of wheat was nearly 90s. per quarter.
The act of 1804 admitted wheat free when the price reached 66s. ; but deficient crops in three years,
war, and the state of the currency, rendered 66s, no protection to the growers; and in 1810 the imports of
wheat reached 1,491,341 quarters, and were large in every year of the period except 1808. In 1814 the
continental war ended, and a committee of the House of Lords recommended that the ports should be closed
against foreign wheat, till the average price of home-grown wheat was 80s. In 1815 an act accordingly
fixed 80s, as the lowest price at which importation could take place, admitting colonial wheat however when
the price reached 67s. The bill caused the greatest excitement in the country, and mobs about the House of
Commons became riotous and were dispersed by the military. Three deficient harvests (1816-17-18) led to
prices rising above the protective amount, and in two of those years more than two and a half million quarters
of wheat were imported. But in 1820, 1821, and 1822, prices fell enormously, the highest price of wheat for
any week in 1822 being 50s. 7d. ; and the cry of distress arose from the agriculturists in every part of the
country. Committees of the House of Commons were appointed to inquire into the condition of agriculture.
The act of 1815 having utterly failed to secure its objects, a new act passed, in July 1822, another sliding-scale,
which would admit foreign corn at 1s. duty when prices exceeded 80s. But the act never came into
operation; prices never reached 80s, and the ports were closed for several years. Passing over some minor
enactments by statute, for regulating the taking of corn-averages and Warehousing grain, we come to the act
of July 1828 “to amend the laws relating to the importation of corn”—which regulated the duty on
importation according to a scale of prices taken on the average of the previous six weeks; the duty being 1s.
when the price was 73s, or above, and the duty 36s. 8d. when the average price was 50s. and under 51s.
This is the statute against which the seven years' agitation was directed, under the name of the Corn-Laws.
In 1828, a year of scarcity, 842,000 quarters of wheat were admitted for home consumption; in 1829, with
an average crop, 1,364,000 quarters were imported; in 1830, with a full average crop, 1,701,800 quarters;
in 1831, nearly an average, 1,491,600 quarters; in the next three years, the crops being above an average,
325,400 quarters, 82,300 quarters, and 64,600 quarters respectively; in 1835, the crop being considerably
above an average, 28,483 quarters; in 1836, none; in 1837, the crop being under an average, 200,000
quarters; and in 1838 the import of foreign wheat reached one and a half million quarters.
The agitation for the repeal of the corn-laws of 1828 may be said to have commenced in 1838; the
first petition to the legislature for its repeal being that of 220,000 handloom-weavers in that year. In
September 1838, at a dinner to Dr. Bowring in Manchester, it was suggested that an Anti-Corn-Law
Association be formed in Manchester; and it was formed at a meeting of these seven gentlemen at the York
Hotel on Monday the 24th of that month—Messrs. Edward Baxter, W. A. Cunningham, Andrew Dalziel,
James Howie (the suggester), Archibald Prentice, and Philip Thomson. The yearly subscription was fixed at
5s. : a provisional committee of twenty-eight was formed, of which the late Mr. J. B. Smith was the first
chairman ; and the first anti-corn-law lecture under the auspices of the association was delivered in the
Corn Exchange, Manchester, by Mr. Abraham Paulton, then a surgeon at Bolton. The Manchester Chamber
of Commerce not having petitioned against the corn-law for ten years, a special general meeting was called
to consider it, when a moderate and vague petition, brought forward by some of the directors, was rejected,
and one by Mr. Cobden, praying for the total repeal of all protective duties, was adopted by a large majority.
Such was the inception of the great movement, of the progress of which we add a brief sketch under the
form of the annals of each year:-
1839. On the 10th of January, at a meeting at the York Hotel, Manchester, to raise funds, £1800 subscriptions were put down
in the room, which a few weeks increased to £6136. A dinner at the Corn Exchange on the 22d of January, 800 present,
raised £600. The first meeting of delegates from various places was held on the 23d, at the York Hotel, when it was stated
that Mr. Paulton had lectured in seven counties, and addressed 80,000 persons. The Manchester Association met in Newall’s
Buildings (long their head-quarters and those of the League) on 28th January, when a president (Mr. J. B. Smith), a vice-
president (Mr. C. J. S. Walker), a treasurer (Mr. Alderman James Kershaw), and a secretary (Mr. John Ballantyne), were
appointed ; and these, with more than one hundred others, constituted the council of the association. A finance committee of
nine members, an executive committee of twelve, and a petition committee of twenty-six, were also appointed. The executive
committee consisted of Messrs. Cobden, Prentice, William Rawson, Edward Hall, W. R. Callender, James Chapman, William
Evans, James Howie, Walter Clark, George Wilson, George Dixon, and Peter Eckersley. This committee was afterwards elected
to be the executive committee of the League, and at the close of its seven years' labours, its only new members were Messrs.
William Bickham, Samuel Lees, Henry Rawson, and Thomas Woolley. February 4. A great meeting of delegates was held in
London, and met daily for a time. At the next yearly meeting of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce all the directors not in
favour of total repeal were set aside, and a new board elected, who were all repealers. In the House of Commons, the Right Hon.
C. P. Williers (who throughout the struggle took charge of the cause in the House), moved that the petitions presented to the
House against the corn-laws be referred to a committee of the whole House, and that evidence be heard at the bar of the House.
This was negatived by 361 to 172; and the delegates then quitted London. They assembled (March 7) in the Manchester Corn
Exchange, passed resolutions against the vote of the House, and resolved to meet again in London. March 12. Mr. Williers moved
that the House of Commons should resolve itself into a committee of the whole house to take into consideration the act regulating
the importation of foreign corn. After five mights’ debate, his motion found 195 supporters, 342 opponents, and so was lost.
March 20. The delegates met in London and agreed upon an address, recommending the formation of a permanent union, to be
called “The Anti-Corn-Law League,” to be composed of all the towns and districts represented in the delegation, and as many
others as might be induced to form associations and to join the League. The central office of the League to be in Manchester;
that body to be entrusted with the duties of engaging and recommending competent lecturers, obtaining the co-operation of the
public press, and establishing and conducting a stamped circular, to keep up a constant correspondence with local associations, etc.
#umbren of salton–ſhangester #arish. 365
£5000 to be raised to defray the expenses of the League for one year. The delegates adjourned, subject to the call of the
Manchester Anti-Corn-Law Association. Meetings were held in many large towns; 50,000 hand-bills, placards, etc., were
distributed; the Anti-Corn-Law Circular was established in April, and soon its circulation was 15,000 weekly; by June lectures
had been delivered in a hundred large towns; a Working Men's Association was formed in Manchester, and the introduction of
the penny-postage facilitated the already great correspondence of the League, and increased it nearly a hundred-fold.
1840. Mr. Cobden having offered the site of “Peterloo" in Manchester for the erection of a great FreeTrade Hall, a temporary
pavilion was erected (by one hundred men in eleven days), having an area of 15,750 Square feet, in which (January 13) a great
banquet was held, at which twenty-seven members of parliament were present, and a working-men's banquet was also held therein
the following Tuesday evening—5000 present, the proceedings lasting till nearly 2 o'clock in the morning. The delegates re-
assembled in London on Tuesday, March 24, and a deputation of more than 200 had an interview with Lord Melbourne, and also
with Mr. Baring and Mr. Labouchere, (Lord John Russell being ill). On Wednesday, 26th March, Mr. Williers moved the same
resolution as to the consideration of the corn-laws ; but it was got rid of as a dropped Order. The delegates met ; asked him to
bring it before the House again after the Easter recess, and resolved to use every exertion to return members pledged to support a
repeal of the corn-laws. To one and a quarter million of signatures for repeal, were added another quarter of a million ; and thus
fortified, Mr. Williers renewed his motion on the 26th of May, but was defeated by 300 to 177. On 5th May, Mr. Hume obtained
a committee to inquire into the duties on imports, whether for protection or for revenue. October 29. A tea-party was held in the
Manchester Corn Exchange—850 present, chiefly ladies. During 1840, the executive council of the League sent up to the House
of Commons 763 petitions, with 175,840 signatures, and 22 petitions (18,003) to the Lords; they had distributed 14 million of
hand-bills, tracts, etc.; circulated 330,000 copies of the Anti-Corn-Law Circular ; over 800 lectures were delivered in the chief
towns of 32 English counties, besides 49 places in Scotland, 24 in Ireland, and 32 in Wales.
1841. The Whig administration having declared itself in favour of a moderate fixed duty on corn, and there being a vacant seat
at Walsall, the Tories there invited Mr. William Ewart Gladstone as a protectionist; the Whigs, Mr. Lyttelton, as a supporter of
a fixed duty; and the Liberals sent a deputation thither to question the candidates. The result was that Mr. Lyttelton retired ;
and ultimately the free-traders of Walsall nominated Mr. J. B. Smith as their candidate. The poll (January 30) closed with 363
votes for Mr. Gladstone, 336 for Mr. Smith—a majority of 27 only, notwithstanding adverse circumstances. On 18th February a
League council was elected, a large staff of lecturers, clerks, etc., appointed, and an executive committee commenced daily sittings
in Newall's Buildings. The yearly report of the directors of the Manchester Chamber of Commerce dwelt on the injurious effects
of restrictions on trade, and the necessity of an immediate change in our commercial policy, and especially as to the import-duties.
This report, in a pamphlet form, was widely circulated. Besides various town and other large meetings in Manchester and elsewhere,
at which resolutions were passed for total and immediate repeal, a meeting of delegates in Manchester (April 15) resolved to nominate
deputies from all the local associations in the kingdom to attend in London when Mr. Williers should make his annual motion.
Lord John Russell (then premier) gave notice, April 3, that on May 30 he should move for a committee of the whole House, to
consider the acts relating to the trade in corn ; and on the 7th May he declared his intention of proposing a fixed duty of eight
shillings per quarter on wheat. May 1. The League council in Manchester addressed all the associations in the kingdom, urging
redoubled efforts for repeal. Ministers were defeated on the budget by Lord Sandon's motion on the sugar-duties. Open-air meetings
were held in Manchester of the working classes. From one a petition in three days received 5390 signatures. An attempt was
made to defeat another (June 2) by Dr. Sleigh, Mr. Charles Wilkins, and the help of the Chartists and others; and it was here that
a cheque of the duke of Buckingham on a Manchester bank for £150 acquired its significance. Dr. Sleigh was heard; Mr. Wilkins
could not get a hearing ; and a petition for total and immediate repeal was carried by a vast majority. Dr. Sleigh gave a lecture
at the Corn Exchange, June 9, and challenged any individual to discuss the corn-laws with him. Mr. Finnigan, a handloom-
weaver, accepted the challenge. On the 14th they met. Dr. Sleigh was deemed by the meeting to have the worst of the argument.
He withdrew, and a resolution was passed, declaring that the discussion had convinced those present of the injustice of the corn-
laws. May 27. Sir Robert Peel moved a vote of want of confidence in the ministry, and carried it by 312 to 311. Ministers
resigned ; and parliament was dissolved June 23. Some distinguished free-traders were returned at the general election, as Messrs.
Mark Philips and Milner Gibson for Manchester, Mr. Cobden for Stockport, Dr. Bowring for Bolton ; but there was on the whole
a Tory or Conservative majority of 104 in England and Wales; and the Whig members were finally left in a minority of 76. A
conference of ministers of religion was held at the Manchester Town Hall, August 17 to 22–nearly 700 present—at which
resolutions and an address were passed condemnatory of the corn-laws. Parliament met August 19 ; on the 24th the Queen's speech
recommended the consideration of the corn-laws ; the debate on the address in the House of Lords ended in an amendment of Lord
Ripon's, declaring that government did not possess the confidence of the House or of the country, being carried by 168 against 96.
In the House of Commons a like amendment was moved by Mr. Stuart Wortley, and after four nights’ debate, it was carried by 360 to
269. Ministers resigned ; Sir Robert Peel accepted office ; and parliament was prorogued to October 7. Meanwhile, great distress
overspread the country. On the retirement of the ministers of religion from the Manchester conference, meetings were held in
many towns and districts to hear their accounts, and free-trade principles spread rapidly. A conference of forty Welsh ministers
was held at Caernarvon, and public meetings all over the kingdom, and the agitation kept pace with the urgency of the crisis.
November 17. One hundred and twenty delegates at Manchester resolved on petitioning the House of Commons for total and
immediate repeal; and the Manchester executive continued to meet daily.
1842. January 1. A meeting of working men, deputies from nearly thirty places, was held at Manchester, at which reports
were made of the education of the working classes in various parts of the kingdom. In Scotland large meetings were held in
Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, etc., at which resolutions and petitions for repeal were passed almost unanimously. An Anti-Corn-
Law Bazaar was opened in the Theatre Royal, Manchester, January 31, under the care of a committee of 360 ladies. It was
open ten days, and realised upwards of £10,000. February 3. The Queen opened parliament, and recommended to the consideration
of both Houses “the laws which affect the importation of corn and other articles.” Nearly 600 deputies met in London, instructed
and resolved to accept nothing short of repeal. On Sir Robert Peel announcing a sliding-scale of duties, 700 deputies passed a
resolution condemning the measure, and adopted a memorial to the Queen, expressing utter want of confidence in her then ministers,
or in any ministers who would not propose the total repeal of the corn-laws. Great meetings of the Manchester Association declared
the new scale of duties an insult to the country. One meeting, beginning in the Town Hall, adjourned to Stevenson Square, and
reached 7000 in number. Large meetings were held in other Lancashire and Cheshire towns, all taking a like course. After three
nights’ debate in the House of Commons, the motion was carried by 349 to 226. Mr. Williers's yearly motion for total repeal
followed a few days after, and was defeated, after four nights’ debate, by 393 to 90. 2881 petitions for repeal, etc., were presented
before March, numbering one and a half million signatures. On March 9, the second reading of Sir Robert Peel's bill was carried
by 284 to 176; and on April 7 its third reading by 229 to 90. April 20. Its second reading passed the Lords by 119 to 17. Lord
Melbourne's motion for a fixed duty was negatived by 207 to 71; and on April 29 Sir Robert Peel's new bill became law. In the
House of Commons a motion of Mr. Bannerman, to invest ministers with powers to permit, during the recess of parliament, the
free admission of foreign corn, was negatived by 176 to 113. July 4. The conference of delegates was held in London, and received
harrowing details of the general distress. They met during a fortnight, and sent a deputation of 150 to Sir Robert Peel, and to
various other ministers, without success. July 21. Mr. Duncombe moved an address to the Queen, praying that parliament should
be re-assembled with the view of an alteration of the commerce in corn, if no improvement should take place after the prorogation;
but this was defeated by 147 to 91 votes. On the following day a motion of Mr. Milner Gibson that the House resolve itself into a
committee to take the distress of the country into consideration, was rejected by 156 to 64. The conference closed its sittings
366 Ǻr 3%istory of lantasite.
August 1, and parliament was prorogued August 12. The turn-out and riotous proceedings of the mill-workers, called the “national
holiday,” occupied a fortnight during this August—those of the Ashton, Dukinfield, Stalybridge, and Hyde districts going to
Manchester and enforcing the mill-hands there to turn out. One open-air meeting in Granby Row Fields, Manchester, was dispersed
by dragoons, etc. For several days bread was stolen from bakers' shops, mill-windows were Smashed, and 3000 special constables
were enrolled in Manchester. At a great meeting of the Manchester Association, August 25, Mr. Cobden recommended meetings in
the agricultural districts as soon as the harvest should be over. The Association and the League met fortnightly during the next
three months, and resolved to raise a fund of £50,000. Thirty-six gentlemen were appointed to canvas for subscriptions; eleven
lecturers were constantly busy in the agricultural and other districts; 23,000 tracts were stitched up in the magazines for September,
October, and November ; and meetings, tea-parties, etc., were held all over the kingdom, at which liberal Subscriptions were made
to the £50,000 fund.
1843. January opened with weekly meetings in Manchester, in the Corn Exchange, at One of which it was stated that the
tracts, etc., issued during 1842 weighed between six and seven tons. In three days three-quarters of a million of tracts were issued ;
seventy bales of tracts were sent out in one week (weighing about four tons), and fifty more bales immediately followed. At a
great banquet at Glasgow 2000 persons were present. The FreeTrade Hall was finished in January, a brick erection, 135 by
102 feet, with walls 27 feet high. Inside, its area was 14,175 square feet. It had three galleries, both sides and one end; the lower
end having a vast platform of three flats, or dais, the front one 2 feet above the floor, and the others having a rise of 2 feet 6 inches.
This vast hall was opened with a banquet on the evening of January 30. A preliminary meeting was held, and appointed
three committees to consider the effect of the corn-laws respectively on agriculture, on commerce and manufactures, and on the
physical, moral, and political condition of the people. In the evening the Free Trade Hall (the largest room in the kingdom, save
Westminster Hall) was crammed. Mr. Mark Philips, M.P., presided, and before the meeting closed it was announced that towards
the £50,000 fund subscriptions had been received amounting to £42,000. On the evening of Tuesday, February 1, a meeting was
held at the Town Hall, to consider the effect of the corn-laws on the agricultural classes; on Wednesday as to manufactures and
commerce; and on that evening, at a dinner in the Free Trade Hall, 3800 were present. On Thursday a meeting of ministers of
religion was held in the Town Hall, 300 present; and that evening there was a second great banquet in the Free Trade Hall. On
Friday morning another meeting of deputies; in the evening another banquet in the Free Trade Hall, between 7000 and 8000
present. After the opening of parliament, the League transferred its weekly meetings to the Crown and Anchor, London. In
January, Sir Robert Peel's private secretary, Mr. Edward Drummond, was shot in the street, and died of the wound. It was at
first supposed that it was intended to assassinate the premier himself; but the murderer proved to be a lunatic, and was confined
for life. Notwithstanding this, in some quarters it was asserted that the League was patronising assassinations. February 13. Lord
Howick's motion for a committee to inquire into the distress of the country gave rise to a debate extending over five mights. In
the fifth night's debate, Sir Robert Peel, with considerable excitement, asserted that Mr. Cobden had charged him with being
individually and personally responsible for the distress and suffering of the country. Be the consequences of those insinuations
what they might, he would never be influenced by menaces. Mr. Cobden declared that he had not said personally responsible,
but responsible by virtue of his office. Sir Robert, after twice saying “You did,” declared he would not say he was certain
that Mr. Cobden had used the word “personally.” A disgraceful uproar ensued in the House, the protectionists seeking to
fasten the imputation on Mr. Cobden. On the division the numbers were—For Lord Howick's motion, 191; against it, 306.
The delegates in London, and a large meeting in the Free Trade Hall, expressed the general indignation of the free-traders
at the unfounded imputation on Mr. Cobden, and voted him worthy an address of sympathy and admiration. Numerous
other “indignation’ meetings were held in various parts of the country. A remarkable passage in Mr. Thomas Carlyle’s “Past
and Present’ attracted much attention about this time —“If I were the Conservative party of England, I would not for
£100,000 an hour allow those corn-laws to continue. All Potosi and Golconda put together would not purchase my assent to
them.” At a meeting of delegates in London (March 1) it was stated that since the preceding December 136 meetings had
been held in the metropolis, and its subscriptions to the fund reached £22,000. As the Crown and Anchor was too small, and
the use of Exeter Hall was refused, Drury Lane Theatre was engaged for one evening in Lent (March 15), when it was crowded in
every part. Mr. George Wilson presided ; Mr. Cobden and Mr. Bright were the chief speakers, and the latter said the League had
asked for £50,000 and had got it. Other meetings were held in the same theatre, and a smaller one in the Sadler's Wells Theatre.
At a meeting at Stroud, Earl Ducie avowed himself a supporter of the League ; and even the farmers in Buckinghamshire passed a
resolution condemnatory of the corn-laws. Farmers’ meetings were to be held in every city in England on the Saturday, and Mr.
Cobden pledged himself to attend one every week. Great meetings were held in the agricultural counties, and with the greatest
success, beginning with Norwich, Taunton, etc. A working-men's tea-party in Easter week, at which more than 3000 were present,
adopted an address to Mr. Cobden, signed by 11,372 working men. After seven great weekly meetings in Drury Lane Theatre, its
use was prohibited for “political purposes.” In the House of Commons, April 25, Mr. Ricardo moved that England ought not to
postpone the remission of import-duties with a view to negotiations for reciprocity; and in the debate Sir Robert Peel admitted that
it was for our interest to buy cheap, whether other countries would or no. The motion was negatived, however, by nearly two to
one. May 9. Mr. Williers brought forward his yearly motion. Mr. Gladstone spoke against it. On the fifth night of the debate
Mr. Cobden said the real question was whether you had a right to keep up a law having for its object to inflict scarcity on the
people. And for whose interest ? Not that of the farmer, or of the agricultural labourer, but that of the landlord. From 1815
to 1841 a series of corn-laws could not shut out agricultural distress. Mr. Williers's motion was defeated by 381 to 125; the minority
having increased from 90 to 125. Mr. Gladstone's appointment to the Board of Trade was regarded as a sign of leaning towards
free trade. The deputies from the country assembled in London, and great meetings were held at the Opera House (May 13), and
at the Hall of Commerce (May 22 and 29). June 12. Lord John Russell moved simply for inquiry into the operations of the corn-
laws; but was defeated by 244 to 145. It was neatly said that the shibboleth of the Tories was the two words “sliding-scale,” that
of the Whigs, the two words “fixed duty.” It might have been added that of the free-traders was also in two words, “total repeal.”
Great open-air and other meetings were held in April, May, and June, at Hertford, Cambridge, Aylesbury, Uxbridge, Lincoln,
Bedford, Colchester, etc., all resulting in favour of repeal. July 25. Mr. Bright was elected member for Durham by 488 to 410
votes. August 7. Mr. Ewart's amendment against monopoly and protection was supported by Mr. Bright in his maiden speech ;
but lost by 52 to 25 votes, and parliament was prorogued. August 24. During five years' existence of the Manchester Anti-Corn-
Law Association, and three of the League, 35 members had been added to the free-trade party in parliament, and £50,000 had been
given to the League for one year. The League now resolved on more extensive operations,—to raise a fund of £100,000; to engage
Covent Garden Theatre for 50 nights (rent £3000), to expend £10,000 a-year in distributing amongst 10,000 subscribers to the fund
of £1 and upwards, a full-sized weekly newspaper ; and the first number of The League, edited by Mr. Paulton, appeared on
Saturday, September 30, and soon had a large circulation.
During great part of the year 300 persons were employed in making up electoral packets of tracts, and 500 more in distributing
them. In this way had been distributed to the parliamentary electors of England and Scotland five millions of tracts; among non-
electors 3,600,000; and 426,000 stitched up in magazines. Total number of tracts issued during the year 9,026,000, weighing
upwards of 100 tons. The distribution had been made in 24 counties (237,000 electors) and 187 boroughs (259,226 electors), supplying
496,226 electors. Fourteen lecturers had been employed during the year in 59 counties of England and Scotland, delivering about 650
lectures; and thus 140 towns had been visited, many of them twice or thrice. The total expenditure of the year had been £47,814,
leaving a balance on hand of £2476. The London agitation recommenced in Covent Garden Theatre, September 28; in Liverpool
the local association mustered between 5000 and 6000 in the Amphitheatre (October 4). A great meeting was held in Covent Garden
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arisiſ, 367
Theatre, October 12, and at a great meeting in Manchester Mr. Samuel Jones Loyd sent a subscription to the fund of £50.
Earl Fitzwilliam took part in an open-air meeting at Doncaster, and spoke in favour of total repeal. In London a vacancy in the
representation led to a contest between Mr. Pattison, a free-trader, and Mr. Baring ; when Mr. Pattison was elected by 6535 to
6334 votes. The subscription to the £100,000 fund was originated in different places at public meetings. At Manchester (November
14) in the Town Hall £12,000 was subscribed in an hour and a half; Liverpool £4600; Glasgow £2531; Leeds £2110. At a
second meeting at Manchester the local subscriptions had reached £20,280; and after the first meeting at Manchester to originate
this fund the Times declared that the League was “a great fact.”
1844. On the 1st January the marquis of Westminster, the wealthiest member of the nobility, and a very large landowner, gave
in his adhesion to the League, with a contribution of £500 to the fund. At a West Riding demonstration at Wakefield, a report was
read of the amounts collected in eleven districts of the Riding in 1843 and 1844, the totals being, in 1843, £6196; in 1844, £13,143. It
was resolved to hold weekly meetings in Covent Garden Theatre. Parliament met February 1, and Sir Robert Peel said the govern-
ment never had contemplated, and did not then contemplate, any alteration in the existing corn-laws. March 12. Mr. Cobden moved
for a committee to inquire into the effects of protective duties on the interests of tenant-farmers and labourers; but the motion was
defeated by 241 to 153. The meetings in Covent Garden Theatre were held weekly from March 20 to June 19. At the general
election following the death of William IV., Mr. William Entwistle was elected a member for South Lancashire by 7571 votes,
against Mr. (afterwards Sir William) Brown, 6963 votes. On 25th June Mr. Williers moved that it is expedient that the corn-
laws be repealed forthwith, Sir Robert Peel said he was not prepared to alter the corn-laws of 1842, and did not contemplate it.
The motion was lost by 330 to 124 votes, the majorities against his motions having decreased from 303 in 1842 to 206 in 1844. In
July agricultural distress—labourers working for 5s, 6s., or 7s. a-week—was fearfully illustrated by rick-burnings in Suffolk and
other counties. The League now turned its attention to the registration of city and borough voters, selecting 140 boroughs for its
chief operations. A vacant seat at Dudley was, however, carried by Mr. Benbow, a protectionist, against Mr. William Rawson, treasurer
to the League, by 388 to 175 votes. . From February to October the League worked diligently at the registration, with great gain to the
freeholders in all the Lancashire boroughs, and some gain in sixty-eight other boroughs in other parts of the kingdom. At one
meeting Mr. Cobden pointed out how a great many other freeholders might be added by purchase to the county constituencies, and
styled the celebrated Chandos clause “a re' in pickle for landlords.” Every county having a large town population might be won
if people would thus qualify themselves for county votes. It was only necessary to be in possession of a freehold of that value before
the 31st January. At a meeting in Covent Garden (December 12), it was said that the declaration of Sir Robert Peel that the battle
must be fought in the registration courts was being turned by the free-traders against himself. Various meetings were held, especially
in Lancashire and Yorkshire, at which the purchase of 40s, freeholds was strongly recommended; and Mr. Cobden's advice every-
where was “Qualify, qualify 1"
1845. The League began the campaign on January 8th in the Free Trade Hall, and on the 15th in Covent Garden. Theatre, when
the chairman stated that forty meetings had been held in Lancashire and Yorkshire to promote registration and the purchase of
freeholds, and Mr. Cobden pronounced South Lancashire and the West Riding of Yorkshire to be secured. . The yearly meeting of
the League was held January 22, in the Free Trade Hall, when the report of the council stated that 160 boroughs in England and
Wales had been visited during the past year, and an undoubted gain secured in 112 of those boroughs. A sufficient number of
persons had purchased freehold qualifications in North Cheshire, South Lancashire, and the West Riding, to secure a free-trade
majority in those constituencies. More than 200 meetings had been attended by a deputation from the League since October 1843,
150 of them in parliamentary boroughs. Lectures had been delivered in thirty-six out of forty English counties, and in nearly all
the Welsh counties. More than two millions of stamped and other publications had been distributed; in all (with 1,340,000 copies
of the League), nearly three and a half millions. Since the last report, the League had received in London and Manchester 25,600
letters, and despatched about 300,000. The council had entered upon the seventh year of their labours. Of the £100,000 fund,
£82,735 had been received, and the rest, it was expected, would be raised by a large bazaar to be held in Covent Garden
Theatre. There was a balance in hand of £26,657. The parliamentary session of 1845 was opened by the Queen, February
4; and on the 13th Sir Robert Peel's budget proposed the reduction or repeal of duties on sugar, cotton, timber, and 430
other articles. . At the League meeting in Covent Garden Theatre (February 19), Mr. Bright enumerated the yearly
Subscriptions from 1839,-fö000, between £7000 and £8000, £10,000, £50,000, and £80,000 ; and stated that more
than £250,000 had been invested in county qualifications. In the House of Commons, March 7, Mr. Cobden moved for a select
committee to inquire into the cause and extent of the alleged agricultural distress ; and said that, at least in the manu-
facturing districts, whenever provisions were dear, wages were low ; and whenever food was cheap, wages were high. The motion
was defeated by 213 to 121 votes; majority, 92. Mr. Miles's motion (March 17) for affording relief to the agricultural interest was
also negatived by 213 to 78. The great bazaar in Covent Garden Theatre was open nearly three weeks (May 8 to 27), and was an
attractive spectacle, with its 900 feet of counter, its numerous town-stalls, refreshment-stalls, etc. More than £20,000 was received
for admissions and sales, and £5000 in money in aid from various places. The unsold goods were reserved for sale in the Free
Trade Hall. May 26. Lord John Russell moved nine resolutions, of which three were as to considering the corn-laws. Mr.
Sharman Crawford, as an amendment, moved an extension of the parliamentary Suffrage, which was negatived by 253 to 33, and
the previous question was carried by 182 to 104 votes. June 10. Mr. Williers moved his resolution for the abolition of all restric-
tions on the importation of foreign corn, but was defeated by 254 to 122 votes, majority 132. An analysis of the votes on this
motion during four years shows that in 1842 there were in the division 17 monopolists to 4 free-traders; in 1842, 12 to 4; in 1843,
11 to 4; and in 1845, only 8 to 4, or 2 to 1. June 18. At a League meeting in Covent Garden Theatre, it was stated that £25,046
had been realised by the bazaar, and that the contributions to the £100,000 fund had exceeded that sum by nearly £17,000. By
the middle of October the potato-rot became certain, and a temporary opening of the ports to foreign corn was spoken of. In the
beginning of November several cabinet-councils were held ; petitions and memorials from municipal bodies, corporations, etc., flowed
in, praying government instantly to open the ports. Lord John Russell, in a letter from Edinburgh (November 22), wrote, “It is
no longer worth while to contend for a fixed duty;” and Lord Morpeth penned the expression of his conviction that the time was
coming for the final repeal of the corn-laws. On December 4 all England was startled by an announcement in the Times that it was
the intention of the government to repeal the corn-laws, and to call parliament together in January for that purpose ; and two days
afterwards it repeated the statement (the truth of which had been vehemently denied), adding that repeal would be proposed by Sir
Robert Peel in the Commons and by the duke of Wellington in the Lords. On Thursday, December 11, it was announced that
ministers had resigned, and that Lord John Russell had been sent for. On Saturday, December 13, seventy of the principal sub-
scribers to the League in Manchester met, and resolved that an appeal should be made to raise a fund of £250,000; but before a
meeting at the Manchester Town Hall could be held, Lord John Russell had relinquished the attempt to form a ministry (Lord
Grey declining to enter the cabinet), and Sir Robert Peel was again in office. Lord Wharncliffe's death elevating Mr. Stuart Wort-
ley to the peerage, Lord Morpeth was elected without opposition for the West Riding. At a meeting at the Manchester Town Hall,
December 23, it was stated that the amount last subscribed was £123,508, of which £59,333 was spent in 1844, and £51,141 in
1845, leaving a balance in hand of £12,033. The subscription to the quarter of a million fund commenced, and 23 persons or firms
subscribed £1000 each, 25 £500, 51 £200 to £400, 61 #100 to £150, and 50 £50 each. At the close of the meeting the chairman
announced the amount then subscribed to be £59,165, and before the day closed it reached £60,000. This prompt subscription
made many converts. At this meeting Mr. Cobden said that if Sir Robert Peel took a straightforward honest course, he should
have the support of the League and of the whole country as fully and cordially as any other prime minister.
1845. January 15. A large meeting at the Free Trade Hall, the seats being removed, and it is said that 9000 were present.
368 (Iſiſt £istory of 3Lancashire.
#75,600 had been added to the subscription, which now amounted to £128,300; and a 20 per cent instalment was fixed to be
paid. Within a month £150,000 had been subscribed, and a considerable proportion of the 20 per cent instalment paid. Parlia-
ment opened January 19, and the Queen's speech referred to the failure of the potato-crop, and recommended parliament to consider
whether there might not still be a remission of “the existing duties upon many articles, the produce or the manufacture of foreign
countries.” In moving the address in the House of Commons, Lord Francis Egerton declared that his opinion on the corn-laws
had undergone an entire alteration, and he implored the House to bring about a full, Satisfactory, and final settlement of the ques-
tion. Mr. Beckett Denison, in seconding the address, Said that experience had driven him to the same conclusion. Sir Robert
Peel said that the Irish famine had not been the most prominent subject of the recent cabinet consultations. The regulation of the
importation of food was the primary grand subject of the deliberations of the cabinet, and on the question of the corn-laws his
opinions had undergone a complete change. January 27. Sir Robert announced what measures he would propose; amongst which
were the admission of Indian corn and buckwheat free ; and as to corn, when the average price of wheat was 48s, the duty should
be 10s., falling by 1s. with every shilling of rise in price, till on reaching 53s, the duty should be a fixed one of Is. ; that this
mitigated scale should last for three years, and finally disappear February 1, 1849, leaving for the future only a nominal rate of
duty; and that all British colonial wheat and flour should be forthwith admitted at a nominal rate of duty. The debate on this
measure was postponed to Monday, February 9. On that day Mr. Miles moved as an amendment that the House go into committee
that day six months. The fifth night's debate was closed by an able speech of three hours by Sir Robert Peel; and after three
more nights the house divided, when the numbers were—for the motion 337, against it 240; majority in its favour, 97. March 1.
When the House went into committee, Mr. Williers moved as an amendment, “That all duties on imported corn do now cease and
determine.” After two nights’ debate this amendment was defeated by 267 to 78. After this decision the free-traders in the House
supported Sir Robert Peel in his struggle against the protectionists; and after much opposition and long debates, it was not till
March 27 that the second reading of the bill was carried by 302 against 214. The bill passed its third reading in the Commons on
May 16, by 327 to 229. In the House of Lords for the second reading there was a majority of 47, and on the 22d the bill passed
and became law. On the 26th May 1846, after the country had suffered just thirty-one years from the operation of the corn-laws,
in his last speech before quitting office, Sir Robert Peel said:—
“I shall leave a name execrated by every monopolist who clamours for protection because it conduces to his own individual benefit ;
but it may be that I shall leave a name sometimes remembered with ea pressions of goodwill in the abodes of those whose lot it is to labour,
and to earn their daily bread by the Sweat of their brow, when they shall recruit their 60hausted Strength with abundant and untaaced
food, the sweeter because it is no longer leavened by the Sense of injustice.”
The words in italics are engraved on the pedestal of one of the many statues erected to the memory of the statesman—that in
Peel Park, Salford. On the 2d July a meeting was held of the council of the League in the Manchester Town Hall, at which Mr.
Cobden moved that it is expedient to suspend the operations of the Anti-Corn-Law League. Mr. Bright seconded the resolution,
which passed unanimously. It was also resolved that after the payment of the first instalment (20 per cent) the subscribers to the
$250,000 fund should be relieved from all further liabilities. It was also agreed that if any attempt were made by the protec-
tionists to retrace the legislation on this question, or to prevent the final extinction of the corn-laws in February 1849, the members
of the then executive council should be authoriscd to call the League into renewed existence. Mr. Cobden having stated that Mr.
George Wilson had attended meetings of the executive council at which resolutions had been passed 1361 times; Mr. Prentice 1117
times; Mr. S. Lees 863 times; Mr. W. Rawson 601 times; Mr. Thomas Woolley 485 times; Mr. William Bickham 474 times;
Mr. William Evans 444 times; and Mr. Henry Rawson 258 times, moved that Mr. Wilson be requested to accept a sum of not less
than £10,000 for his invaluable services. This motion passed by acclamation. It was next resolved to appoint a committee to
determine on some suitable testimonial to each member of the executive council out of the funds of the League. [This testimonial
ultimately took the shape of a silver tea and coffee service (of 240 oz.) to each of the gentlemen named by Mr. Cobden after Mr.
Wilson.] The chairman then declared “that the Anti-Corn-Law League stands conditionally dissolved.” So ended this great struggle
for free trade in corn. Shortly afterwards, Mr. Cobden was presented with £75,000 as a gift from the free-traders of the kingdom,
raised by voluntary subscription. To Mr. Bright was presented a splendid library. Six years after the conditional dissolution of
the League, on the coming into office of the Derby-Disraeli ministry, it was revived, a £50,000 fund asked for, and active operations
were continued until the danger was over. In February 1849 the last remnant of the corn-laws was abolished, only a nominal duty
being taken, in order to secure accounts of the quantity yearly imported."
* Most of the above facts have been gleaned from Mr. Prentice's History of the Anti-Corn-Law League.—H.
#umbren of Šalfort—ſºlanchester #arish. 369
MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT AND INSTITUTIONS OF MANCHESTER.
The Old Feudal Government of Manchester—Charter of Incorporation, 1838—The Wards, the Council and its Com-
mittees—Local Acts—Royal Charters and Grants—Boroughreeves and Mayors of Manchester and Salford—Salford
Charter of Incorporation and Boundaries of the Borough—The Wards, the Council, and its Committees—Salford
Local Acts—Manchester Assize Courts—Courts of Record and other Courts in Manchester and Salford—Man-
chester City Police Force—New Police Courts—City Gaol—New Bailey Prison and the New Salford Hundred
Gaol—Municipal Receipts and Expenditure—Accounts of Manchester Corporation, its Waterworks and Gasworks
—Accounts of Townships in the City—Estimated Annual Value of Property in Manchester—Salford Borough
Expenditure—Manchester Guardians—Workhouses and Swinton Schools–Churchwardens and Sidesmen for
Manchester and Salford—Manchester Town Hall and New Town Hall—Chorlton-on-Medlock and Hulme Town
Halls—Salford, Pendleton, and Broughton Town Halls—Manchester Post Office—Rainfall for Eighteen Years
—Dr. Dalton's Meteorological Observations—Soils of Manchester and Neighbourhood—Sanitary Condition of
Manchester—Health Officer—Water Supply and Corporation Waterworks—Gasworks—Markets and Fairs—
Street and other Improvements—Sewers—Hackney Coaches—Bridges—Railway Stations—Statues—Royal
Exchange–Banks—Free-Trade Hall–Literary and Philosophical Society—Other Scientific and Literary Insti-
tutions—Athenaeum—Manchester and other Mechanics' Institutions—Manchester Royal Institution—Natural
History Society—Newspapers and Periodicals—Libraries: the Royal Exchange, Foreign, Law, etc.—Manchester
Free Libraries—Salford Royal Borough Free Library—Military and Barracks—Volunteers—Races—Theatres—
Assembly Rooms—Various Manufactures and Trades—Chamber of Commerce—Inland Bonding and Customs—
Public Parks: Peel, Queen's, and Philips Parks—Old Halls and Mansions—Chapelries of Newton, Blackley, Dids-
bury, Chorlton, Stretford, Denton, Gorton, and Birch—Ardwick—Heaton Norris—Cheetham Hill—Biographies
—Manchester Necrology in the Nineteenth Century.
sº S has been shown in the history of the barons or lords of Manchester from the times of the
Šºš Greslets to the year 1846, when Sir Oswald Mosley sold the manorial rights to the corpora-
§ tion, this great and rapidly-growing city was governed under its ancient feudal institutions
ºğ for seven centuries and a half. Manchester (like its neighbour Salford) was nominally
§§§ governed all this time by officers named “the boroughreeve and (two) constables.” The office
§ of reeve was anciently that of the lord's bailiff in his manor; and his chief duties were to collect
the rents and tolls of the land for the lord as such bailiff, and to be the chief pledge for the preservation
of the peace and the security of the property within his jurisdiction. At a later period his duties were to
call and preside at public meetings, to correspond with public bodies, and to distribute certain charitable
bequests to the necessitous. He was also, after the creation of a body of police commissioners, ea officio
treasurer of the police-fund, and this office was yearly resigned by the Outgoing and transferred to the incoming
boroughreeve. The two constables were, however, the real governors and principal officers for the preservation of
the peace both in Manchester and Salford—as anciently, from Saxon times, in every other township throughout
the realm. Under their direction in these two boroughs was a stipendiary officer called a deputy-constable,
who was in fact the chief police-officer; having under him two or more “beadles,” assisted by as many
special constables as were deemed necessary, to be increased to an unlimited extent upon any urgent occasion.
There was also in each town a number of officers appointed yearly at the courts-leet, under the designations
of “market-lookers for corn, fish, and flesh, and for white meats; inspectors of weights and measures; officers
for preventing regrating, ingrossing, and forestalling; searchers and sealers of leather, dog-muzzlers, ale-founders,
conners, tryers or tasters, scavengers,” etc., all of whom were sworn to act as constables or peace-officers.
A rule such as this, with all its old and clumsy machinery, adequate, perhaps, for the management of a small
market-town in Saxon or Norman times, was long felt in later periods to be wholly unsuitable to the require-
ments of a vast population engaged in manufacturing industry, growing rapidly in importance and wealth,
and having all the larger needs of an improved civilisation. The Municipal Corporations Act of 1835 pro-
vided the means of release from this antiquated system.
In March 1838 a petition for a charter of municipal incorporation was presented to the Privy Council,
containing 15,831 signatures; and the charter prayed for was granted, reaching Manchester November 1,
It divided Manchester into fifteen wards (that of New Cross returning double the number of councillors and
aldermen of any other ward), so that the corporation or council consists of a mayor (who is also an alderman),
sixteen aldermen, and forty-eight councillors, in all sixty-four members of the council. The wards are named
1 On Manchester and Salford respectively becoming corporate municipalities all these feudal offices were abolished.
* 2: Y →3
* *f
> * * * / sº
>



3 D
370 (ſhe #istorm of £ancashire.
New Cross, St. Michael's, Collegiate Church, St. Clement's, Exchange, Oxford, St. James's, St. John’s, St.
Ann's, All Saints', St. Luke's, St. George's, Medlock Street, Ardwick, and Cheetham. For the more
convenient transaction of business the members of the council are divided into twenty-one permanent
committees:—
1. Watch, with sub-committees for audit, clothing, weights and measures, lock-ups, expenses at fires and fire-brigade, petroleum,
and bake-houses. 2. Building and Sanitary Regulations, with four sub-committees for as many districts of the city. 3. Hackney
Coach, with sub-committees for audit-office and clothing, and for two districts. 4. Nuisance, with sub-committees for audit-office
and clothing, Smoke-nuisance, and four districts. 5. Markets, with sub-committees for audit, Smithfield market, central markets,
bye-laws, and slaughter-houses. 6. Public Parks, with sub-committees for audit, Queen's Park, and Philips Park. 7. Public
Free Libraries, with sub-committees for audit, Campfield Library, and for four branch libraries. 8. Waterworks, with sub-
committees for works, sale, supply, and appeals, audit, and arrangements. 9. City Gaol. 10. Charitable Trusts. 11. Finance,
with sub-committees for audit, coroner's audit, and township and highway rates arrears. 12. Gas, with sub-committees for gas-rent
appeal, audit, clothing, and meters, street-mains, Gaythorn Station and Rochdale Road Station. 13. Improvement, with sub-
committees for audit and vacant land, Albert Square and Deansgate, Corporation Street and Oldham Road districts, London Road
and Oxford Road districts. 14. Paving, Sewering, and Highways, with sub-committees for audit and arrears, stables and yards,
and three divisions or districts. 15. Lamp and Scavenging, with sub-committees for audit, lamp, etc., scavenging, and yards
and street names. 15. Chorlton-on-Medlock, with sub-committees for audit, rates, All Saints' Church clock, and three districts.
16. Hulme, with sub-committees for audit, rates, and town hall, lamps and streets, and labour and works. 17. Ardwick, with
sub-committee for audit and paving accounts. 18. Cheetham, with sub-committees for audit-office and yards, and three districts.
19. General Purposes Committee (including every member of the council), with sub-committees for audit, city-surveyor's office and
court-house, parliamentary, new town hall, coroner's inquests, bye-laws, photographic museum, new park (for Hulme and
Chorlton), and sanitary arrangements. 20. Cemetery, with sub-committees for audit and for works. 21. River Medlock. These
committees and sub-committees meet—some weekly, others fortnightly, others monthly, and some at the call of the chairman.
Amongst the local acts for Manchester, are eleven passed in the years 1844-1866, for the improvement
and regulation of the city; one (1854) for the city Court of Record. Nine (1847-1867) for the Corporation
Waterworks. One (1846) for markets and fairs; one (1857) for burials and burial-board; two (1844
and 1850) for bonding warehouses and customs; one (1858) for providing assize-courts in or near Manchester
for the hundred of Salford; and one (1858) for providing for the separate incorporation of the overseers of
the townships of Manchester, Ardwick, Chorlton-on-Medlock, and Hulme, for specific purposes.
The royal charters and grants to Manchester in the nineteenth century have been—the Charter of
Incorporation, granted October 23, 1838; the first commission of the peace (for the borough), February 27,
1839; separate quarter-sessions, April 1, 1839; the title of “City.” March 29, 1853; and the new
commission of the peace (for the city) August 25, 1853. The General Municipal Corporation Act, which
egulates the election of councillors, etc., passed in 1859.
The following are lists of the boroughreeves and constables of Manchester, and of the boroughreeves of
Salford, during the present century:-
y
BOROUGHREEVES AND CONSTABLES OF MANCHESTER,
From 1800 to 1846, inclusive."
4 Date of Borough reeve. Constables. w
Appointment.
1800 John Tetlow Thomas Atkinson. William Jones
1801 Joseph Thackeray Richard Wilson John Mather
I 802 Samuel Smith James Hibbert Richard Rushforth
1803 Edward Hobson William Fox
1804 James Hibbert Richard Entwisle John Ratcliffe
1805 William Fox William Starkie Richard Wood
I806 Joseph Seddon Samuel Philips Thomas Belcher
1807 William Starkie Thomas Fosbrooke Jeremiah Fielding
1808 Richard Rushforth John Drinkwater Peter Ewart
1809 John Ratcliffe Thomas Hardman William Garnett
1810 Thomas Fosbrooke Hugh Hornby Birley Joseph Winter
1811 Richard Wood Edward Loyd James Kearsley
1812 Jeremiah Fielding W. Johnson Edensor Gilbert Winter
1813 Thomas Hardman Thomas Smalley Potter James Touchet jun.
1814 Hugh Hornby Birley Thomas Williams Joseph Green
1815 William Johnson Edensor Benjamin Heywood Bright William Mitchell
1816 Joseph Green Nathaniel Wainhouse Thomas Scholes Withington
1817 Thomas Scholes Withington Thomas Salter William Sandford
1818 Edward Clayton John Moore jun. Jonathan Andrew
1819 Thomas Sharp John Orford Richard Smith
1820 James Brierley Richard Warren George Hole
1821 James Brierley Richard Warren George Stopford
1822 Thomas Worthington Samuel Grimshaw Thomas Heywood
1823 Gilbert Winter John Kirkman Charles Greenway
1824 Samuel Grimshaw George Neden James Burt
e
* A list of boroughreeves and constables, commencing temp.
Edward VI. (1553) and carried down to 1846, will be found in Mr.
Harland's Manchester Court-Leet Records of 16th century, vol. i.
p. 170 (vol. 63 of the Chetham Society's series). The election or
appointment was always made at the Michaelmas Court-Leet in
October, and the years above are those of the October; but ten-twelfths
of the term of office fell within the following year.—H.
#umurth of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arigij. 371
Date of .
Appointment. Borough reeve.
1825 William Lomas Charles Cross
1826 George Neden Michael Harbottle
1827 Charles Cross Bulkeley Price
I828 David Bannerman Robert Ogden
I829 Bulkeley Price Edmund Buckley
1830 James Burt Thomas Birtles
1831 Benjamin Braidley William Haynes
1832 Benjamin Braidley William Haynes
1833 Robert Chapman Sharp Francis Hodgson
1834 Edmund Buckley John Allen
1835 John Macvicar William Neild
I836 John Hyde George Hall
1837 John Brown David Price
1838 Thomas Evans George Wood
I839 John Brooks David Price
1840 David. Ainsworth Adam Roxburgh
1841 Richard Birley James Gibb
1842 John Woollam Francis Parker
1843 John Woollam Francis Parker
1844 John Burgess Francis Parker
1845 Alexander Kay John Potter
(Last Boroughreeve and also Mayor).
MAYORS OF MANCHESTER.
1. Sir Thomas Potter, knight (died March 20, 1845), twice
2. William Nield (died 4th April 1864), twice . g e
3. James Kershaw, M.P. (died 1864) ſº ſº &
4. Alexander Kay (died 16th May 1863), twice
5. William Benjamin Watkins (died 1864)
6. Sir Elkanah Armitage, knight, twice . e & 4.
7. Sir John Potter, knight, (died 25th October 1858), thrice
8. Robert Barnes, twice . º {& * > * º
9. Benjamin Nicholls, twice
10. Sir James Watts, knight, twic
:
I
7
1800 John Atkinson
1801 William Beck
I802
1803 Nat. Shelmerdine
1804
I805
I806 William Norris
1807
1808
1809
I810
1811
I812
1813
I814
1815
j.
0
i
. Ivie Mackie, thrice * g
. Matthew Curtis . * e * g º
. Thomas Goadsby (died 16th February 1866) .
. Abel Heywood . tº * e * e
. John Marsland Bennett, twice
. William Bowker
. Robert Neill
BOROUGHREEVIES OF SALFORD.
1816 Richard Bindloss
1817 Joseph Buckley
1818 John Greenwood
1819 John E. Scholes
1820 Jerry Lees
1821 Nat. Shelmardine
1822 James Leech
Nat. Kirkman
David Locke
Thomas Holland
James Hall 1823 Thomas Marriott
B. H. Green 1824 Benjamin Booth
George Gould 1825 George Jones
1826 Thomas Heywood
1827 William Hatton
1828 Josiah Collier
1829 John Bradshaw Wanklyn
1830 James Kerr
1831 William Hill
William Tate
William Hutchinson
Henry Burgess
Thomas O. Gill
Robert Hindley
John Heygate
MAYORS OF SALFORD.
. William Lockett (died 7th July 1856)
John Kay . tº gº e g tº e º
Robert Parren Livingstone (died 11th September 1853)
William Jenkinson (died 28th February 1862) g
Edward Ryley Langworthy, twice ſº
Thomas Agnew . † º §
. Frank Ashton, twice
. William Ross, twice
. Stephen Heelis, twice
. William Harvey, twice .
. James Woods Weston, twice
. James Worrall
. William Pearson, twice
. Wright Turner, twice
. Henry Davis Pochin
Constables.
John Bradshaw Wanklyn
David Bannerman
Samuel Brooks
John Bentley
Robert Sharp
Benjamin Braidley
Henry Forth
Henry Forth
Edward Brooke
Ralph Turner
Jonathan Brown
J. M. Lees
John Ferguson
John Woollam
David Ainsworth
John M'Clure jun.
John Kenworthy jun
Philip Houghton
William James Tate
William James Tate
Paul Ferdinand Wellert
(Aldermen of Manchester).
1838-9, 1839-40.
1840-1, 1841-2.
1842-3.
1843-4, 1844-5.
1845-6.
1846-7, 1847-8.
1848-9, 1849-50, 1850-1.
1851-2, 1852-3.
1853-4, 1854-5.
1855-6, 1856-7.
1857-8, 1858-9, 1859-60.
1860-1.
1861-2.
I862-3.
1863-4, 1864-5.
1865-6.
1866-7.
1832 John Dugdale
1833 Lot Gardiner
1834 William Jenkinson
1835 James Hall jun.
1836 James Garrett Frost
1837 Elkanah Armitage
1838 John Leeming
1839 Thomas Bazley
1840 George H. Hall
1841 Holland Hoole
1842 William Lockett
1843 Robert Chadwick
1844 William Lockett, the last
boroughrevee and first mayor.
1844-5.
1845-6.
1846-7.
1847-8.
1848-9, 1849-50.
1850-1.
1851-2, 1852-3.
1853-4, 1854-5.
1855-6, 1856-7.
1857-8, 1858-9.
1859-60, 1860-1.
1861-2.
1862-3, 1863-4.
1864-5, 1865-6.
1866-7.
372 (The #istory of 3Lancagüirº.
The municipal borough of Salford was created by the charter of incorporation granted on the 16th April
1844, the grant of corporate arms and supporters being dated November 5 and 6, 1844. Its area and
boundaries were the same as those of the parliamentary borough, defined by the Act of 2 and 3 William
TV. (1832) cap. 64, and are still the same."
The borough is divided for municipal purposes into three districts—Salford, Broughton, and Pendleton;
the township of Broughton being the north-east portion of the borough, and east of the river Irwell, which
divides it from Pendleton, the north-west portion of the borough, and from Salford, the most southerly
district of the borough. The municipal borough is divided into eight wards, four in the township of Salford,
two in Broughton, and two in Pendleton—viz. Salford: Blackfriars, Crescent, St. Stephens, and Trinity
wards; Broughton : St. John's and Kersal wards; Pendleton: St. Thomas's and Seedley wards. Each ward
is represented by two aldermen and six councillors, so that the council consists of sixty-four members,
including the mayor, who is always an alderman. The council is divided into the following committees,
most of them having sub-committees for the three townships of the municipal boroughs, and sitting, most of
them fortnightly, others weekly, and others only at the call of the chairman :-
1. General Watch Committee, with a sub-committee for police. 2. Museum, Library, and Park, with sub-committees for
park (including some honorary members not of the council) and for general arrangements. 3. General Gas, with sub-committees
for works, accounts, and arrears. 4. Burial Boards, with sub-committee for works. 5. General Finance, with sub-committees for
the treasurer's department and for weights and measures. 6. River Irwell Conservancy. 7. General Purposes, with parliamentary
sub-committee. 7. Salford District Highway and Paving, with sub-committees for works, provender, and accounts. 8. Ditto
Improvement, with sub-committees for property and works, Waterloo Bridge, and for Cross Lane, etc., extension. 9. Ditto, Town
Hall and Markets, with sub-committees for buildings and repairs, and for markets. 10. Ditto Sanitary, with two sub-committees.
11. Ditto, Lamp and Scavenging, with sub-committees for lamp, manure-depôt, fire-brigade, and provender. 12. Ditto, Water,
with sub-committees for works, accounts, and arrears. 13. Ditto, Finance, with sub-committee for rate arrears. 14. Ditto,
General Purposes, with parliamentary and surveyor's department sub-committees. 15, Broughton District Sanitary. 16. Ditto,
Highway, Paving, Improvement, Lamp, and Scavenging, with sub-committees for works and buildings. 17. Ditto, Finance, Town-
Hall, and General Purposes, with parliamentary sub-committee. 18. Pendleton District, Sanitary and Scavenging, with sanitary
and provender sub-committees. 19. Ditto, Highway, Paving, Improvement, and Turnpike, with sub-committees for works and
buildings. 20. Ditto, Finance, Water, Town Hall, and General Purposes, with sub-committees for Town Hall and fire-brigade.
The most recent local Salford Acts were that of 25 and 26 Vict. cap. 205 (passed 7th August 1862), “for consolidating and
amending the acts relating to the Corporation of Salford, for extending their powers,” etc., which repealed former acts of 1830, 1844,
1850, 1853, and 1859; and that of 30 Vict. cap. 58 (passed 31st May 1867), which, amongst other things, by its 24th section
transfers from the Salford to the Manchester corporation the powers to supply water to the Pendleton district. For water supply,
that portion of the township of Salford north of the Irwell is held to be in Broughton, and the Salford corporation only supply
water to the township of Salford.
We have elsewhere noticed the necessity for holding assizes within the hundred of Salford. The
“Manchester Assize-Courts Act” (21 Vict, cap. 24, passed 14th June 1858) was passed for providing, in or
near Manchester, “ lodgings for the judges, offices, lock-ups, and all other necessary accommodation for
holding criminal and civil assizes for the hundred of Salford,” etc. As soon as the act passed, the magis-
trates of the Salford Hundred, at the sessions in July 1858, appointed a committee of eleven justices to consider
and report on the most eligible mode of providing courts; and this committee ultimately recommended the
purchase of the site of Strangeways Hall and adjacent land, 14,376 square yards, in three plots, subject to
three rents amounting to £599 per annum. The court adopted the report, and re-appointed the committee, with
power to purchase the land, to advertise for plans, etc., to spend £500 in premiums for plans, and to carry out
the works generally. One hundred and seven competitors sent in designs, which were publicly exhibited, and
the committee, with the aid of Mr. D. Bellhouse, selected three for the premiums offered. No. 1 (£250), Mr.
Alfred Waterhouse of Manchester; No. 2 (£150), Mr. Thomas Allom of London; and No. 3 (£100), Mr.
John Robinson of London. It was decided to adopt the design of Mr. Waterhouse, and he was appointed
the architect to carry out the work. The contracts for the work were approved in July 1859, amounting,
without extras, to £75,581. The total cost, with internal fittings, ultimately reached £100,000. Ultimately
the works were completed in July 1864, and the first assizes were held in the new courts on the 26th of that
month. The architectural character of the structure combines the Early English (in the upper storey) and the
Decorated Gothic of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries, which prevails in the grand façade and principal
storey. The courts proper (exclusive of judges' lodgings, and of the main entrance and the South Hall Street
entrance-porches) occupy an area 256 feet in length in Great Ducie Street, and 166 feet in depth in South Hall
Street. In arrangement, the two assize-courts, the great entrance-hall, and the sheriff's court, form the centre
of a range of buildings of three storeys, of which the basement is altogether above ground. The principal storey
contains the great hall and the courts, and the upper storey is surmounted by cornice and parapet, and high-
pitched roof. The principal front of the edifice stands about 100 feet from Great Ducie Street, and consists
of a noble central and projecting entrance or portico, 46 by 14 feet, with flanks, each 75 feet long, and
extensions at either end in the form of pavilions. The principal storey is lighted by a range of three-light
windows of the Decorated period, with richly-traceried heads; the upper storey has windows of the Early
English or lancet period. In the portico the windows are more ornate, and are flanked by canopied niches
* The boundaries are described p. 348 supra. The rateable value of the property in the Salford Poor-Law Union in 1867 was £390,103.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamriješter £arish. 373
for statues.' The portico is surmounted with a handsome crocketed gable, in which is a fine rose-window,
deeply recessed and rich in tracery. On the apex of the gable a statue is to be placed ; and at the foot of
the gable are two canopied turrets, each supported by eight pillars. The whole of the roofs are high-pitched,
with ridges of ornamental iron-work. In South Hall Street the façade is plainer, but of similar character: and
there is an entrance from this street through a handsome porch reached by thirteen steps. In this front is
also an octagonal tower, of very ornamental character, rising from the ground, and having deeply-recessed
lancet windows, with traceried heads, between massive buttresses at each. The height of the building
from the ground to the handsome open-work parapet (in quatrefoils) is 58 feet ; to the ridge of the roof
78 feet.
The interior arrangements commence with the basement-floor, which, with the tower, is used for the
purposes of ventilation and heating, as well as for public refreshment-rooms, prisoners' cells, turnkeys' apart-
ments, kitchens, etc. There are twenty-two cells, two of them under the Crown Court, for the custody of
prisoners néxt for trial; and rooms for witnesses about to be called in criminal cases are also under the
Crown Court. The principal floor comprises, in its centre, next the principal entrance, the great hall, the two
assize-courts (one on each side of the tower), the sheriff's court, and spacious and well-lighted corridors, leading
to subordinate apartments. Thus the west corridor (south side of entrance-porch, Great Ducie Street) leads
to lavatories, etc., rooms for witnesses, etc.; and (north side) ladies' cloak-room, waiting-room for women,
and witnesses' rooms. All these rooms and offices front and are lighted by windows looking into Great
Ducie Street. The south corridor (South Hall Street side) leads to rooms for the sheriff, for the governor
of the prison, chief-constable's office, others for attorneys’ clerks and consultation-rooms. Entering from
South Hall Street is a vestibule, with stairs leading to the upper floor. The east corridor is called the
Barristers', is 184 feet long and 10 feet wide, with a roof of moulded timber ; it is in the rear of the courts,
and contains or opens into rooms for attorneys, the indictment-office, room for the clerk of the crown,
barristers' robing-room, barristers' library, barristers' consultation-room, room for barristers' clerks, and a room
for the prothonotary. The north corridor (on the Cotham Street side) leads to consultation-rooms—the stairs
leading to the upper storey, rooms for attorneys, etc. From the South Hall Street vestibule a vista of corridors
is presented, 300 feet in length. In the upper storey there are only three corridors, as the rear of the Courts,
or east side of the building, has no upper storey. The principal rooms on this storey are the grand-jury room
and the Chancery Court for Lancashire. The west corridor (next Great Ducie Street, beginning at the north
end) leads to the Chancery Court, witnesses' rooms, grand jury room, ante-room, retiring-room for grand-jury,
and a large and commodious dining-room for barristers. The south corridor (next South Hall Street) leads
to a refreshment-room, other rooms for various purposes, retiring-rooms for members of the press, board-room
for county magistrates, etc. The north corridor (next Cotham Street) leads to retiring-rooms for the judge of
the Chancery Court, and other rooms for officers of the court, barristers, witnesses, etc. Four stone
staircases lead to this upper storey—two from the western side of the central hall, a third through the
octagon tower, South Hall Street, and the fourth from the north corridor of the principal floor. The great
central hall, one of the finest modern Gothic apartments in Europe, is said to resemble Westminster Hall;
it is smaller, but more rich in decoration. Westminster Hall is 228 feet by 66 feet, and 92 feet high ; the
central hall of the assize-courts is 100 by 48% feet, and 75 feet high. It is entered on the west side from
the Great Ducie Street portico, by three richly-moulded doorways, which are flanked by others giving access
to the staircases leading to the grand jury room and upper floor. In the eastern wall of the hall, facing the
entrance-doors, are three other doorways of similar design, leading to the tower, the civil court, and the
criminal court. At each end of the same wall are doorways of like character, through which the public gain
admission to the two courts. The hall is lighted at each end (north and south) by a large window, whose
head reaches to the apex of the roof. The north window is 32 feet high and 18 wide, of seven lights, the
head filled in with rich tracery. The south window, 30 feet high and 16 wide, and of six lights, with rich
tracery in the head. Both the windows are filled with stained glass—the north illustrative of the signing of
Magna Charta, the south containing the arms of England, Ireland, and Scotland, the duchy of Lancaster,
and several towns in the Salford Hundred. Below the north window is a spacious recess, devoted to a
telegraph and inquiry office, temporary post-office, book-stall, and station for messengers. The floor of the
hall is of vitrified and encaustic and other tiles, combined with slate, in very handsome designs by the
architect. The walls are wholly of stone. The roof of this hall is of open timber-work, of massive and
elaborate construction, and high-pitched. It rises from wooden wall-brackets, the feet of which rest on stone
corbels, springing from the wall in bold relief of carved foliage. From the projecting ends of these brackets
hang chandeliers, or corona lights, of rich design. The roof-timbers are decorated in appropriate colours. The
massive brackets support lattice timber trusses, 16% feet in depth, running the whole length of the hall on
each side, these trusses again carrying principals of the Ordinary king-post truss kind, which support the
upper part of the roof.
The Criminal or Crown Court (the nearest of the two to South Hall Street) has an area of 59 by 45 feet,
1 The statues are to be of Alfred the Great, Glanville, Henry II., Edward I., Gascoyne, Sir Thomas More, Coke, and Sir Matthew Hale.
374 - (Iije Đígtorg of £ancashire.
and is very lofty, spacious, and convenient. Each of its four walls has an arcade in the upper part ; two of
these arcades give light to the court, the third is an open one with a recessed gallery, and the fourth is
blank, and prepared for frescoes or other paintings. These lancet-formed arcades give quite a character to
the court. The walls are, to a certain height, panelled with oak ; and the ceilings are panelled by moulded
timber beams, and supported on moulded and carved stone corbels. The bench, or seat for the judge, is
under a richly-carved canopy, having subordinate seats on either side. The arrangement of seats, tables,
galleries, etc., is excellent ; and in fact, the wants of the public, the barristers, juries, etc., are amply provided
for in both courts. In a discussion on the construction and arrangement of these courts during the meeting
of the Social Science Association there, in which the Hon. D. Dudley Field of New York, and other eminent
lawyers, took part, the principal suggestions for improvement were, that more space should be given to the
business portion of the court, and less to the public, and that there should be a jury-box and a witness-box
on both sides the court. Both courts were eulogised for their very convenient arrangements, and as well
adapted for hearing. The Civil or Nisi Prius Court is of the same dimensions as the Crown Court, 59 by 45
feet, and resembles it in general character and adornment. The arcade of this court differs, however, from
the other, in being embellished with triple windows, with tracery in the heads. A temporary dock is
arranged in this court for the trial of prisoners, either at the assizes or sessions, when the court is not needed
for civil business. The Sheriff’s Court, on the south side of the Great Hall, is 40 by 26 feet, with open timber
roof and lantern light. The Chancery Court is 41 by 23 feet, and has an ornamental ceiling. Its windows are
coupled lancets, 16 feet high, with mullions of gray granite. This court is in the north-west pavilion, and is
lighted on the west or Ducie Street side. The Grand-Jury Room is an elegant apartment, 40 by 25 feet,
well lighted by three coupled lancet windows of 16 feet in height in front, and two others in the projection
formed by the central portico. The Barristers' Library, in the east corridor, on the principal floor, is a convenient
and commodious room, lighted by vertical lights in the room, and fitted up with book-cases, seats, and tables,
warmed by an open fireplace at each end, and having quiet recesses for study. The Barristers’ Dining-Room, in
the West corridor of the upper storey, is a spacious apartment, 55 by 21 feet, handsomely furnished with long and
cross tables of Oak, capable of dining about seventy. The appliances for the mess are excellent, and in an
anteroom are hoists for the dishes from the kitchens below. The Tower is 210 feet high to the apex of the
roof, with a square of 20 feet. It consists of a panelled shaft to the height of 120 feet, surmounted with
gablets, flanked by turrets, and finished with pyramidal roof. In this shaft are four large and deeply-
recessed windows. At the top of the tower is a prospect-gallery, reached by about 230 steps in the interior.
The ventilation and heating are affected by a combination of warm water and warm air; the apparatus being
placed in the basement. Fresh air is brought into the building beneath the Ducie Street porch, cleansed
and taken into a large vaulted space beneath the central hall floor, and thence into secondary chambers,
where fan-blowers (driven by an engine of eight horses' power) accelerate and regulate its passage into the
Various rooms and courts through the fittings, and it can be made warm or cold at pleasure. Each court
has a separate heating apparatus. The vitiated air is carried off by extraction-flues in the floors and walls,
passing into the extraction-shaft of the tower. The corridors and great hall are warmed with hot-water
pipes running beneath the floors, or collected in coils in recesses. Two large boilers in the basement supply
hot water for the pipes, and a third drives the engine.
The Judges' Lodgings form a handsome and separate structure, north of the assize courts, and in the
same style of Gothic. Its area is 92 by 98 feet, separated from the front of the courts by a courtyard, enclosed
by a screen-wall. It has, towards Great Ducie Street, a massive entrance-gateway. It has three storeys in
front and four in the rear, and communicates with the courts by a very handsome corridor on the first floor,
10 feet wide, and lighted by an elegant arcade of eight lancet, cusped windows. The kitchens and offices
are in the basement. On the ground-floor is a fine entrance-hall, in which, at the foot of the main staircase,
is a beautiful stone screen in four bays, the shafts of serpentine marble, the capitals and spandrels exquisitely
carved with foliage and flowers, angels, birds, and reptiles. The staircase is wide and spacious, constructed
of pitch-pine, with moulded timbers and a balustrade of geometric pierced work, the newels carved and
surmounted by statuettes. The first floor contains dining, drawing, and ante rooms, butler's offices, house-
keepers' rooms, and judge's clerk's room. The drawing-room is an elegant apartment 40 by 20 feet, with an
oriel and a three-light window, both facing Great Ducie Street. The dining-room fronts Cotham Street, is
35 by 20 feet, and has a fine ceiling of timber beams resting on stone corbels. The bed-rooms, bath-rooms,
and lavatories, are in the upper storey. In the rear are attics for servants. All the rooms are well lighted
and ventilated.
The materials used in the building are—for exterior, Darley Dale stone and gray Dalbeattie granite.
For the interior—Yorkshire stone, magnesian limestone, Steetley stone, gray freestone from the Forest of
Dean ; and (for the columns) red granite from Peterhead.'
* The various persons engaged in the design, construction, and Robert Neill, for the superstructure, Mr. Bramall. Statuary, Mr.
ornamentation of this edifice were:—Architect, Alfred Waterhouse, Woolner. Decorative iron-work, S. Redmore and Co., Coventry.
Manchester and London. Contractors—for the foundations, Mr. Stained glass, Edmundson and Son, Manchester; Heaton, Butler
#umbrel of $alfort—#antijºster 33arisiſ. 375
The “Court of Record for the trial of civil actions within the city of Manchester,” was established
by the Act of 8 and 9 Vict, cap. 145 (1845) and was re-constituted and regulated by the Manchester Court
of Record Procedure Act (1854). This court holds six sittings in the year (one every alternate month) at
the Assize Courts, Strangeways, besides a weekly court before the Registrar, every Thursday, for all
purposes within the competency of the court, at the Town Hall, King Street. The local jurisdiction of the
court is co-extensive with the municipal boundaries of the city.
This court has authority to commence and try all personal actions of every kind arising within the jurisdiction, except cases in
which the debt or damages exceed £50, or in which title to hereditaments, toll, fair, market, or franchise, shall be in question, or
in which the validity of any devise, bequest, or limitation under any will or settlement may be disputed, or for any malicious
prosecution, or for any libel or slander, or for criminal conversation. By the written consent of the parties, however, the court
may have also complete jurisdiction over, and power to try, any of the above excepted cases. The court has also authority to try
all actions of ejectment between landlord and tenant, wherein the annual rent of the premises of which possession is sought to be
recovered shall not exceed £50, and upon which no fine shall have been reserved or made payable, and which premises shall be
situate within the jurisdiction. The court has also power to issue processes against defendants residing out of its jurisdiction.
The Court of Record office is in Cross Street, where all processes are issued and proceedings filed.
Judge—H. Wyndham West, esq., Recorder of Manchester, Registrar—Jos. Heron, esq., Town-Clerk.
“The Court of Record for the Hundred of Salford” is held at the Court House, Town Hall, Salford, for
the trial of issues of law or in fact, and for hearing special cases, six times in the year (January, March, May,
July, October, and December). A weekly court is held before the Assistant-Registrar for all other purposes
within the competency of the court every Friday. Intermediate courts are also held before the Assistant-
Registrar every day between Friday and Friday (holidays excepted), for all such purposes within the
competency of the court (except the trial of issues of law or in fact, and the hearing of special cases), as the
court may think proper, on account of urgency, to take at any intermediate court. The High Steward of
this court is the Earl of Sefton. Judge—Joseph Kay, esq., M.A. Deputy-Steward and Registrar—James
Hilton Hulme, esq. Assistant-Registrar—J. T. Edwards, esq.
“The Court-Leet for the Hundred of Salford” is usually held once a-year in October, at the Town Hall,
Salford, before the Deputy-Steward, J. H. Hulme, esq.
“The County Court, Manchester District,” is held monthly in the Court House, Nicholas Croft, High
Street, where are the offices. Judge—Edward Ovens, esq.; Registrar—Samuel Kay, esq. In 1866 13 causes
were determined with, and 10,985 without, a jury; in judgments obtained by plaintiffs the aggregate amount
of debts was £22,774; and there were 97 adjudications in bankruptcy.
“The County Court, Salford District,” is held monthly in the Court House, Encombe Place, near St.
Philips, Salford, where are the offices. Judge—C. Temple, esq., Q.C.; Registrar—Frederick Copley Hulton, esq.
In 1866 two causes were determined with, and 8286 without, a jury; in judgments obtained by plaintiffs
the amount of debts was £12,308; and there were 49 adjudications in bankruptcy.
“The District Courts of Bankruptcy” are held in the Athenæum, George Street. Commissioner—W. T.
Jemmett, esq.; Registrars—George Harris and D. C. Macrae, esqrs; Official Assignee—George Morgan, esq.
“The Manchester Court of Petty Sessions,” or City Police Court, is held daily at the City Court House,
Bridge Street, before one or more city magistrates. Clerk to the Justices—Thomas Higson, esq. City special
sessions are held at stated periods for highway business, the transfer of ale-house licenses, and for poor-rate
appeals. The Stipendiary Magistrate is Robinson Fowler, esq.
“The City Quarter and Intermediate Sessions” are held at the Assize Courts, Strangeways, before Henry
Wyndham West, esq., Recorder, and a bench of city magistrates; Clerk of the Peace—F. S. Austin, esq.
“The Court of Petty Sessions for the Hundred of Salford” is held daily in the New Bailey Court House,
Salford, before Henry Leigh Trafford, esq., Stipendiary Magistrate, and other justices. Clerk to the Magistrates—
William Foyster, esq.-The Quarter and Intermediate Sessions for the hundred are also held in the New
Bailey Court House, where two courts can be held on emergencies.
“The Salford Borough Petty Sessions” are held daily in the Town Hall. The borough has no grant
of quarter-sessions; all such cases as would be tried there being sent to the hundred sessions.
THE MANCHESTER CITY POLICE FORCE.-From the beginning of the present century, when the whole
of the day police force of Manchester consisted of a deputy-constable, two beadles, and a few assistant-
constables (the city being guarded in the night by the watchmen), all appointed at the Manor Court-Leet,
the police force has grown rapidly, yet not more than required by the increase of population and property in
the city, till the following is the present strength of this force, which it was determined by the city council
in February 1867 should be augmented by eighty men, a considerable portion of which number is included in
the following return of 4th September 1867 —The whole force is under the command and direction of the
chief-constable, Captain Palin, and its estimated strength is: Preventive—4 Superintendents, 24 inspectors,
43 sergeants, and 631 constables; total preventives, 702. Detective—1 Superintendent, 10 inspectors, 17
sergeants, 12 constables, 8 clerks, and 1 messenger ; total detective, 49. Total of the whole force, 752. The
and Byne, and Lavers and Barrand. Tiles, T. Oakden, Manchester. Trowbridge. Asphalting, E. Walters, Manchester. Clerk of the
Wood-carving, Banks, Manchester. Stone-carving, Imhoff, O'Shea, Works, Mr. Littler.
Whelan, and Green. Ventilating and heating, Haden and Son,
376 Çür #istory of 3|ancagüirº.
preventive force is classed in four divisions for portions of the city, viz. –A, with central offices, cells, etc., in
Albert Street; B, do. in Livesey Street; C in Fairfield Street; and D in Cavendish Street, Chorlton-on-
Medlock. There are four other police stations, also with cells and offices, at Knott Mill, Swan Street, Kirby
Street, and Great Jackson Street. The detective department has central offices at the Cheapside end of the
Town Hall; but the cells formerly used there as lock-ups are closed. When the increase determined upon
is completed, the additions to the force will consist of 64 men in the four divisions of preventive police,
5 for relays and for rest, 11 sergeants and traffic constables; total 80, at an estimated yearly cost of £5322,
of which government allows one-fourth, or £1332, leaving the nett additional expense chargeable on the
city-rate £3991. Colonel Woodford made his annual inspection of the force in August 1867, and expressed
great Satisfaction with its efficiency. Only one man was absent with, and one without, leave.
NEW POLICE-COURTS.—The police-court in Bridge Street having been found inadequate, the council
resolved to provide better accommodation. Having first decided that it would be inexpedient, in fact a
nuisance, to have a police-court either within the new Town Hall or adjoining it in Albert Square, they next
resolved to erect a new building for the purpose in Minshull Street, in which accommodation might be made
for holding the city quarter-sessions (for holding which at the assize-courts the council pay a rent to the
county of £900 a-year), as well as for all the other departments of legal and criminal business. Plans having
been prepared, six firms of architects were requested to prepare plans in competition, and four of them
intimated their intention to do so, the other two declining from pressing engagements. It was suggested by
the sub-committee that the amount to be expended on the erection of the new police-courts should not exceed
fºã,000. The front entrance to the court-house is to be from Minshull Street, and the building is to
comprise a basement or cellar; a ground-floor of rooms and offices for magistrates and others; a first floor,
on which there shall be four suitable and well-ventilated courts, each having an area of 250 square yards,
for the transaction of the magistrates' daily business, of the business of the quarter-sessions, and of the court
of record, and so arranged that the whole may be used at the same time, and also the necessary accommodation
for the judges, magistrates, barristers, and public ; cells in the basement for prisoners, and rooms on the other
floor for the resident head-porter. The building may be of stone, or brick with stone-dressings, etc. The
entrance of the public to the respective courts to be by two staircases leading direct from Minshull Street,
each staircase to communicate with two courts only.
The City Gaol is in Hyde Road, a little nearer the city than the Bellevue Gardens. It was erected in
the three years ending 1850, and covers a considerable area within a boundary-wall 20 feet high. It consists
of a centre building and five radiating wings, three of which contain cells for males, a fourth for females, and
the fifth includes the chapel, the hospital, etc. Next the entrance-gateway are placed the porters' lodge and
the houses of the governor, the chaplain, and other superior officers. The gaol can hold 550 male and 289
female prisoners; and is under the control of a committee of visiting justices, and of the justices in gaol
SéSSIOILS.
The New Bailey Prison and House of Correction for the hundred of Salford in New Bailey Street, Salford,
with its court-house containing two courts, has been already noticed (p. 337). It was opened for the
reception of prisoners in 1790, and large additions were made to it in 1816. The prison is capable of
containing 583 male and 214 female prisoners; total 797. The average number of prisoners is about 700
The prison has the character of being one of the best conducted, cleanest, and healthiest gaols in England.
It is, however, too small for the greatly increased population of the hundred, and (as noticed p. 338).
a new gaol for the hundred of Salford is now (September 1867) nearly finished behind the Assize Courts in
Strangeways.
MUNICIPAL RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURE.
The last published account of these appears in the printed “Proceedings of the Manchester Council for
the year 1865-6.” They consist of the treasurer's statements on the city fund account, and the various
township and other accounts under the control of the council for the year. All fractions of pounds are omitted.
CITY FUND ACCOUNT. Receipts.-The balances in hand on September 1, 1865, were £1483; the city rates (£67,660 for 1865-6,
and £21,820 for 1866-7), £89,480; contributions to salaries of officers from Improvement Committee and gas-fund, £1231 ; govern-
ment grants (criminal prosecutions and maintenance of prisoners), £5913; fees refunded, £1954; in constabulary department
(government grant of the fourth expense of police pay and clothing £9163), £11,213; City Court of Record fees, paid over, É2328;
from overseers for parliamentary voters’ lists, £153; hackney-coach department, licenses, fines, etc., £271 ; building and Sanitary
expenses as to dangerous buildings, refunded, £118; night-soil sold, etc., £8465; fees in weights and measures department, É566 ;
City Court House fines and penalties, £2079; nuisance fines, penalties, etc., £421; received from markets' department for manorial
rights, etc., #4000; fire engine (contributions from assurance offices É2135), £2062, and loans for new fire stations, £7470; City Gaol
(prisoners' earnings, £6085; maintenance of Salford prisoners £915, advance to visiting justices refunded, £1085) #8183; gas-meter
fees, £223; miscellaneous receipts, £1981; total receipts, £150,341. Eacpenditure.—Salaries, etc. to corporation officers (recorder,
£800; stipendiary magistrate, £1000; town-clerk, £2000), £9736; corporation election expenses, £377; quarter-Sessions and assizes
expenses (sessions prosecutions, £1801; assizes ditto, £802; maintenance of juveniles in reformatories, £584; county and hundred
rates, £9377; for accommodation at assize courts, £1350), £14,207; constabulary force expenses (salaries, £1743; wages of officers
* See a notice of this gaol, p. 352 Supra.
#umbren of Šalfort—ſianchester arish. 377
and constables, £35,212; clothing, £4523), £44,039; new police stations, £303; City Court of Record, £189; coroner's inquisitions
(his fees, £252; ditto on orders of recorder, £757; medical witnesses, £234; other witnesses, £136) £1445; printing list of parlia-
mentary voters, £153; hackney-coach department, É336; building and sanitary, £419 ; inspection and cleansing of lodging-houses,
£244; night-soil department (wages, etc., of inspectors and night-men, £7268; hire of horses and drivers, £4945; freight and canal
dues, £2787), £17,044; weights and measures department (salaries and wages, £837; miscellaneous, £215), £1053; city-court
expenses (rent £860), £1192; nuisance department, É915; manorial rights and properties [yearly] instalment of purchase-money,
£4000; compensation annuity to Mr. Rutter, county coroner, £277; public parks (wages, 2 parks, £879, repairs and alterations,
£305; museum, £565), £2495; fire-engine department (firemen's wages, £1903; horse-hire, etc. £308), £3757; new fire-stations
(at central station, masonry, £733; joiner's work, £1842; iron work, £200 ; plumbers, £557; brick-work, £530; plastering, £457;
paving and sewering, £223), £5833; city gaol maintenance (salaries and wages, £5172; food, £3860; coals, gas, and water, É1018;
manufacturing materials, £3389), £15,833; city-gaol construction (instalments to public works loan commissioners), £8367; public
free library, Campfield (Salaries and wages, £855; books, £469), £2325; three branch free libraries (Hulme, Ancoats, and Rochdale
Road, salaries, etc., £411; books, £821), £2557; gas-meter testing, £485; river Medlock improvement. £316; miscellaneous
expenses (printing, stationery, and advertising, £747; furniture, repairs, and cleaning town-hall, £660; deputation expenses, £821;
parliamentary expenses, £1239; improvement of streets near London Road Railway Station, £939; donation to Albert Memorial
Fund, £500), £7059; balances in hand, £5295, by which amount the expenditure is less than the receipts.
MANCHESTER BURIAL BOARD.—The Receipts (including balances and loans), £25,179 ; the Eapenditure (payments to contractor
for laying out grounds, £76.70; do. for the buildings, £8400; wages of gardeners, £1533), £25,049. The liabilities are £42,406;
the assets (£3117 invested and £39,157 estimated value of the cemetery) exceed the liabilities by the balance in hand of £130.
CITY GAOL CONSTRUCTION.—Liabilities, £31,969; balance (by excess of assets, by estimated value of gaol, etc.), £80,254.
FREE LIBRARIES EXTENSION.—Receipts, £12,271 ; expenditure, £13,133 ; balance of £842 owing to the Consolidated Bank.
MANORIAL RIGHTS.—Receipts (balance in bank, September 1865, £6982; tolls, stalls, etc., £21, 194; licenses, £1341; rents,
£4453), £34,239. Ea'penditure, purchase-money and interest on loans, £4875; Salaries, etc., #2871; permanent investments,
#7787; loans repaid, £1900; rates and taxes, £1121 ; rents, £1254; repairs, alterations, etc., #2059), £23, 199; with a balance
in the bank, August 1866, of £11,039. Liabilities (balance of purchase-money due to Sir O. Mosley, £115,000), £132,230. Assets
(full amount of purchase-money, £200,000; properties purchased for the enlargement and improvement of Smithfield Market,
#26,770; for its extension, £4026; roofing it and other improvements, £32,117 ; Victoria fruit and vegetable market, É1690;
new fish-market, É9605), £295,548, with a balance in the bank, August 1866, of £11,150.
Townshi P OF MANCHESTER GENERAL ACCOUNT.-Receipts (balance, June 1865, £12,374; township rates, £19,853; scavenging,
£1579; miscellaneous, £1225; loans refunded, £19,574), total, £54,687. Ea'penditure (expenses of collecting the township rates, etc.,
£996; lamp-lighting, gas, wages, etc., #7462; scavenging, £11,223; public sewers, £986; finance department and Sundries, £1151;
temporary loans to burial board, libraries extension, and waterworks accounts, £14,574), total, £36,407, with balances in hand.
CORPORATION WATERWORKS.—Receipts and expenditure for the year ended December 31, 1866. Receipts.-Balance in hand,
December 1865, £4210; receipts of 1865 (rates and rentals) £6118; public rate, 1866, £16,442; domestic rate, 1866, £21,527;
water sold for all trading purposes, including domestic rentals beyond the city, £52,884; annual payment from Salford, £6550.
Total receipts, £112,110. Balance owing to bankers, December 31, 1866, £2155. Payments.-Interest, life-annuities, etc., £64,834;
rates, taxes, and tithes, £2680; sinking-fund account for 1866, £14,644; net expenses of working and management, #18,118;
wages, £5150 ; Salaries, £2726; collection of rates and rentals, £3052. Total payments, £124,265. The chief payments on
construction-account, in 1866 were-for extension of works and piping, £19,285 ; new line of pipes from Godley to Prestwich,
£42,846; purchase of land, £17,048. Amount of stock on hand, December 31, 1866, £19,165.
CORPORATION GASWORKS.–Profit and loss account. Dr. (to cannel, #79,021 ; retort-men's wages, £15,862; retorts, etc.,
£7109; labourers' wages and repairs, Gaythorn station, £3691; Rochdale Road station, £2809; street main, £4331), £10,832;
salaries, £6155 ; eollector's poundage. £2487; chief and other rents and taxes, £3845; income tax, £970; amount transferred to
capital for depreciation of works, £13,817. Total, £146,367. Cr. Gas-rental (within the city, £139,683; beyond the city,
£29,106), £168,790; [Sale of] coke, tar, and ammonia water, £30,130. Total, £198,920; showing a balance, being the gross profit
on the year's working, of £52,553.
At the council meeting on September 4, 1867, the gas committee reported that “the rental for the past year, including meter
rents, amounts to the sum of £178,297, being an increase of £9507 upon that of the previous year. The gross profit amounts to
£47,323, as against £52,553 in the previous year, and is appropriated as follows:—Payment of interest, #14,167; transferred to
capital account towards liquidation of mortgage debt, #19,898; and the surplus, to be paid over for improvement purposes, £13,257,
as against £19,516 the previous year. The number of consumers has increased 485 per cent, amounting now to 49,184, as against
46,907 the previous year ; and the quantity of gas consumed has exceeded that of the previous year by 58,041,000 cubic fect, or
5:04 per cent, as against 89,628,000 cubic feet, or 8.37 per cent.” The average illuminating power of the Manchester gas during
the past year had been equal to 20-58 sperm candles, consuming at the rate of 120 grains per hour, the consumption of the gas
having been reduced to a constant standard of five cubic feet per hour. The illuminating power had been a little lower—in fact,
about one candle lower—than in the preceding year, when it averaged 21-6 candles. The expenditure on capital account during the
past year had amounted to £29,324. At both stations new erections and works were progressing ; at the Rochdale Road station,
without purchasing any additional property for the enlargement of the station, but in order to enable them to provide hereafter the
requisite additional gasholder accommodation in connection with these works, and in as convenient a situation as possible, the
committee had secured, upon satisfactory terms, a plot of land situate in Portland Street, Newtown. Having purchased this plot of
land, the committee had sold to the trustees of the Ancoats Independent Chapel, for the sum of £3000, the plot of land in Every
Street formerly occupied as a gasholder station. The extensions in the street-mains department during the year had again been
necessarily considerable.
General accounts for the out-townships show —Chorlton-on-Medlock, a total of £15,956, with balances on hand at the close of
the year of £5315; Hulme, £13,701, with a balance of £451; Ardwick, £4415, with a balance owing of £880; Beswick, £358,
with a balance owing of £116; Cheetham, #6151, with a balance owing of £2221.
ESTIMATE FOR 1867-8.
The following is the estimate submitted to the council of the amount which would be required for the year preceding 1st May
1868, for payment of the expenses to be incurred in carrying into effect the provisions of the municipal and other acts in force in
the city. The totals of the various departments are given, omitting shillings and pence, with a comparison with last year's
estimate —Salaries and allowances, £11,144, increase, £635; municipal elections, etc., #420, decrease, £50; expenses connected
with quarter-Sessions, £12,000, decrease, £25; court-house expenses, £1350, decrease, £150 ; miscellaneous expenses, £5175,
increase, £600; compensation, £277; city gaol, £21,208, increase, £1770; public parks, £3230, increase, £1255; constabulary
force, £41,841, increase, £9180; weights and measures, £505, decrease, £19; fire-engine department, É2932, increase, £549;
emptying of ashpits, £10,584, increase, £1220; building and sanitary department, É435, increase, £95; nuisance department, É756,
increase, £225; hackney-coach department, É214, decrease, £199 ; Campfield Library, £1718, decrease, £233; branch libraries,
£2962, increase, £755; gas-meter testing department, É309, increase, £45; new town-hall, £10,000, increase, £10,000. Gross
estimates, £127,064; increase, £26,232, decrease, fºſ'7; net increase, #25, 554. Reduced by following credits, viz. –Fees
returnable, £3100 ; Treasury, for maintenance of prisoners, £4500 ; Court of Record fees, £2000; City Court fees and fines, £3500;
3 C
378 (Iije Đistory of 3Lancagüirº.
portions of salaries, etc., from other departments, £1383; intended payment by the markets department to the city fund, £10,000;
total, £24,483. Net estimate, 1867-8, £102,581; ditto, 1866-7, £83,433; addition to city rate, £19,147. “From the estimates
prepared by the several committees of the council, the committee find that the sum of £127,064:15: 10 will be required for
carrying into effect the provisions of the municipal and other acts within the city until the 1st day of May 1868. The committee
also find that towards the said sum of £127,064; 15:10, credit may be taken for £24,483 : 10s., as shown in the Summary of
estimates. The committee therefore recommend the council to order a city rate to be made and levied within the city sufficient to
raise the sum of £102,580.”
ESTIMATED ANNUAL VALUE OF PROPERTY IN THE CITY OF MANCHESTER.—From the returns of the respective overseers of
the several townships within the city, it appears that in July 1866 and 1867 the following were the amounts estimated in these town-
ships —Manchester, 1866, £1,103,300; 1867, £1,171,857; Chorlton-on-Medlock, £199,047, and £204,842; Hulme, £199,563, and
fº)5,366 ; Ardwick, £79,716, and £84,006; Cheetham, £90,254, and £92,772; and Beswick, £3508, and £4.178. Total of city,
£1,675,388 in July 1866, and £1,763,022 in July 1867. -
- SALFORD BOROUGH EXPENDITURE.
The overseers of the various townships, in September 1867, presented their returns of the gross annual value of the rateable
property therein. The sum to be raised by a borough rate is £15,042, and it was apportioned as follows:–Salford, £8009; Broughton,
£3264; Pendleton, £3654; and the municipal portion of Pendlebury, £113. The total amount is equal to 8:38d. in the pound on
the gross annual value (£430,648) of the property of the borough. The number of assessments in the Salford district was 16,689,
an increase of 369 on the return for 1866; and the 369 assessments represented an increase of £6008 in the gross annual value.
In Pendleton and the municipal portion of Pendlebury the number of assessments had increased more than in Salford, the increase
being 409, and the consequent augmentation of the gross annual value was £2748. The increase in that district was chiefly in Small
tenements. In Broughton the increase of assessments was 194, and the increase of the gross annual value £7373, so that the
annual value of the township had increased even more than that of Salford, upon a much smaller number of tenements. The total
increase in the gross annual value, as compared with 1866, was £16,190. -
The administration of the new poor-law by the Manchester Board of Guardians has been so often
commended by the Poor-Law Board and other high authorities, and it is regarded in so many poor-law unions
as exhibiting a high standard of excellence, that a brief notice of its operations becomes indispensable here.
The administration of relief on the old system ceased in Manchester in January 1841, when “the Manchester
Union’ (of several townships) was constituted, and the first board of guardians elected. This “Union" was
dissolved in March 1850, and since that date the township of Manchester has remained a single parish for
the purposes of relief to the poor. The township has an area of 1577 acres, at present (1867) divided into
six relief districts:—No. 1, St. Peter's, population in 1861, 40,656; No. 2, St. Andrew's, 35,587; No. 3,
St. George's, 43,775; No. 4, the Cathedral, 21,523; No. 5, St. Jude's, 19,612; and No. 6, St. Michael's,
23,897. To each district there is a relief committee, a relieving officer, and a medical officer. The funds
disbursed by the guardians are obtained from the overseers of the poor, by calls made as money is needed
for relief purposes. After the close of the parochial year (March 25) the clerk of the guardians prepares a
statement showing what has been expended during the past year, and an estimate of what he calculates will be
required for the current year. That estimate, when adopted by the guardians, is forwarded to the overseers,
who frame their rate accordingly, so as to provide for meeting the demands of the guardians.
The sum given as out-door relief is dispensed amongst the recipients weekly in money, in money and
food, or in food alone, by a pay-clerk and the master of the “Relief-in-Kind Store,” at the House of Industry ;
both acting under the directions of the relieving officers, who are responsible for carrying out the Orders of
the guardians with respect to out-door relief. When out-door relief is ordered, the applicant is supplied with
a card, upon which the officer enters the amount ordered to be given, and the recipient takes it to the pay-
office and there exchanges it for the money ordered, and for tickets representing the food. These tickets he
takes to the “Relief-in-Kind Store,” where he can obtain for them bread, oatmeal, tea, coffee, Sugar, Soap, and
candles. When the account between the relieving officer and the pay-clerk has been balanced at the close of the
week, or early in the next, the relieving officer takes the relief cards, puts an order upon them, assembles
the paupers, gives them the cards again, and they proceed as before to get relief. This process is continued
Week by week until the time for which relief is ordered in any case is expired, when, if further assistance is
needed, the relieving officer reports to the relief committee, the applicant being present, and receives further
instructions. The removal of paupers is conducted by an assistant-overseer, acting under the direction
of the overseers. Formerly applicants who were born in Ireland, Scotland, or the Channel Islands, were
removed by an officer, paid by the guardians, styled the “Pass Officer.” The guardians have the power
of removing such cases, but in consequence of an alteration of the law which largely increased the cost, no
removals of the kind have taken place since August 1862. The removals of English poor do not average
two cases per week. The burial of paupers is dealt with as a matter of relief. The guardians have a
joiner's shop at the House of Industry, where coffins are made for the interment of paupers, whether dying
in the workhouse or at their own dwellings. These coffins are supplied, after investigation by the relieving
officers, who also issue orders for interment, at such graveyard or cemetery as may be named by the applicant.
The guardians are not bound to bury any corpse not within a workhouse, except that of a wayfarer, foundling, or
One found drowned ; but if they agree to bury, they must do so where the friends of the deceased wish it within
the township or parish. At present (1867), the Roman Catholics are all buried at the New Manchester
Cemetery, near the Philips Park; other bodies are interred at the cemetery in connection with All Saints,
Newton Heath, at the Harpurhey Cemetery, and at such of the graveyards in Manchester as are still open.
In connection with the relief of the poor of Manchester, the following premises are used –1. The
Workhouse Hospital (till 1858 the old and only workhouse), New Bridge Street, with the general offices,
#umbren of Šalfort—ſtanchester Barish. 379
board-room, and relief offices adjoining. 2. The New Workhouse at Crumpsall, with land attached, for the
employment of the out-door poor, as on a farm, and a stone-yard for the same purpose. 3. The Industrial
Schools at Swinton. 4. The House of Industry, Ducie Bridge, containing vagrant-wards, rooms for the
employment of the out-door poor, relief-in-kind stores, and School for the children of persons in receipt of
out-door relief. 5. The out-door school in Fleet Street. 6. The premises in Canal Street, Ancoats,
lately fitted up in readiness for a cholera-hospital, but not at present in use. The old workhouse in New
Bridge Street has, since the opening of the new workhouse at Crumpsall, been used principally for the recep-
tion of sick and old and infirm inmates. The new workhouse at Crumpsall was opened in August 1858, the
land surrounding it having an area of about 55 acres. The Workhouse is approached by a carriage-road
leading from Crescent Road, Crumpsall. It is a brick building, consisting of three parallel blocks. The first
is occupied by the able-bodied inmates, and contains also the committee-room, the master's office, and the
private apartments of the principal officers. The second block is appropriated to the use of the children and
women with infants; the third is occupied by the sick, the epileptic, and imbecile inmates. The chapel is
situated between the first and second blocks, and the places and arrangements for cooking, washing, etc.,
between the second and third. The workhouse is from plans prepared by Messrs. Mills and Murgatroyd,
architects, Manchester, and was constructed to accommodate 1894 inmates, in the following classes:–Able-
bodied men, 414; able-bodied women, 465; boys, 148; girls, 148; women and infants, 140 ; male
infirmary, 111 ; female ditto, 126; epileptic and imbecile wards, 280 ; receiving wards, 62: total 1894
inmates. There is accommodation in the two workhouse establishments for about 900 sick inmates. This
accommodation is often, however, found to be insufficient, especially in winter; and it is therefore in con-
templation (September 1867) to extend the hospital arrangements at the new workhouse.
The Swinton Schools, in the hamlet of Swinton, about five miles from Manchester, were opened in
February 1846. They constitute a large range of buildings, with two domical towers, and front towards the
highroad from Pendleton to Worsley. The buildings are of brick with stone-facings, and consist of two parallel
blocks; the first containing on either side the dayrooms, dormitories, Schoolrooms, workshops, etc., for the
boys and girls respectively; whilst the central portion contains the bedroom and the private apartments of
the master and matron, the teachers, and other officers and servants. The second block contains the
infirmary, and between the two blocks are situated the dining-hall, infants' dormitories, school and play
rooms, and the kitchens. The schools are surrounded by about 20 acres of land, upon which the boys are
set to work under proper superintendence. There is accommodation in the schools for between 800 and 900
children, exclusive of the infirmary, which will accommodate about 200. The number of children in the
Swinton Schools on the 31st August 1867 was 486, of whom 66 belonged to other townships. Casual
or vagrant wards were established by the guardians in 1848. In addition to the two workhouses, the
guardians have a building called “The House of Industry,” erected in 1851, in which arrangements are
provided for setting the out-door poor to work at Oakum-picking, corn-grinding, etc.; the able-bodied men
who are deemed suitable for out-door employment being set to work on the farm attached to the new work-
house, or employed in breaking stones in a yard also connected with the establishment. A portion of the
House of Industry is appropriated as stores for the administration of relief-in-kind to the out-door poor ; and
a room there is also set apart as a school for children of persons in receipt of out-door relief, in which the
children receive some elementary instruction from a schoolmistress engaged for the purpose. The children
are also provided with three meals daily, the cost of which (averaging about 1s. 3d. a-head per week) is
charged as relief to the parents. A second school, upon the same principle, is held in rooms hired by the
guardians in Fleet Street, and when the number of recipients of relief is very large, the guardians have the
means of opening a third school in Canal Street, which they have rented at intervals for many years for
temporary purposes connected with the relief of the poor. The schools in Manchester for the out-door
pauper children were established about the time when the House of Industry was erected."
The other poor-law unions within the old parish of Manchester are:—Salford, including the townships of
Salford, Broughton, Pendleton, and Pendlebury; represented at the board by twenty guardians, meeting every
Friday at the Union Workhouse, a spacious building in Eccles New Road. Chorlton, including the townships
of Ardwick, Burnage, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Chorlton-upon-Medlock, Didsbury, Gorton, Hulme, Levenshulme,
Moss Side, Openshaw, Rusholme, and Withington; twenty-one guardians. The board meets every Friday at
the offices in Grosvenor Square, Chorlton-on-Medlock. The Union Workhouse is a very extensive range of
building at Withington. Prestwich—Most of the townships in this union are all within the old parish of
Manchester. A notice of the union will be found in the local history of the parish of Prestwich.
The churchwardens and sidesmen of the old parish of Manchester were chosen yearly on Easter Tuesday,
at the parish table in the cathedral.” For the township of Manchester there are now elected three church-
wardens, four sidesmen, seven overseers, three assistant-overseers, and a comptroller. For Salford there are
* The Jewish Board of Guardians meet monthly at their offices, 1663 to 1863 inclusive, will be found in Mr. Harland’s Manchester
34 York Street, Cheetham. Court-Leet Records, Vol. i. Appendix iv. (vol. 63 of the Chetham
* A list of the churchwardens of the parish of Manchester, from Society's series).-H. § -
380 (ſiſt £istory of 3Lancashire.
three overseers and one assistant-overseer. The highways in the parish and those in the city of Manchester
and its suburbs are regulated by acts of parliament, and repaired, etc., under the various highway surveyors,
the different townships paying their respective quotas of the cost. &
In 1825 the present Manchester town-hall was erected in King Street, at a cost of £38,000, for the
transaction of the municipal and police business of Manchester. The style of architecture is derived from the
Temple of Erectheus at Athens, and the central dome is taken from the model of the octagonal tower of
Andronicus, generally called the Tower of the Winds. The building measures 134 feet in front, and is 76
feet deep. The offices of the city treasurer and a staff of clerks, two committee-rooms, the hackney-coach
superintendent's office, the office of the chief-constable, and the detective office, occupy the floor next the
ground; the chief floor contains a public hall, not large enough for Manchester; at the Cross Street end
is the council-chamber, and at the Cheapside end are the mayor's parlour and corporation library, retiring-
rooms, etc. In the rear of the building, towards Cross Street, various rooms have been annexed from
adjacent buildings for the deputy town-clerk's office, the waterworks offices, etc.; but the gas offices and
other departments, from want of space in the building, are established in the neighbourhood. Formerly the
walls of the large room were covered with fresco paintings. These proved perishable, and most of them have
been removed. The large public room, which was 131 by 38 feet, has been divided into three rooms, by
separating the two ends at the colonnade from the centre, which is still used for meetings, concerts, etc. On
the principal staircase are placed marble busts of the queen and the late prince-consort ; at the top a marble
bust of the late Joseph Brotherton, M.P. ; and in the vestibule and within the large room are full-length
portraits of various mayors of Manchester and others, presented to the corporation, amongst which are Mark
Philips, esq., M.P. ; Joseph Brotherton, esq., M.P. ; George Wilson, esq., chairman of the Anti-Corn-Law League ;
and the following mayors:—Sir Thomas Potter, William Neild, James Kershaw, Alexander Kay, William
Benjamin Watkins, Sir Elkanah Armitage, Sir John Potter, etc. The building having been placed in a
crowded and ineligible site, and having become quite inadequate to meet the ever-increasing demands for
accommodation for municipal purposes, it was determined, in 1866, to erect a larger edifice on the eastern
side of Albert Square, on the site of the police-yard, where the fire-engines were formerly stationed. This
building will be commenced as soon as all the requisite land is purchased and cleared of buildings.
As to the extent of the site for the new Town Hall, there were conflicting opinions. Many objected that it was inconvenient
in form, which resembled that of a flat iron, and inadequate to the prospective wants of the municipality; and a meeting was held
at the Town Hall on the 24th January, at which it was resolved that the ground-plan was most objectionable in shape, and
inadequate to the prospective requirements of the city, and the town-council were requested to revise it, so as to obtain a much
larger square block for the building, with easy access from the adjacent streets. A memorial, signed by more than 400 citizens,
to the like effect, was presented. A motion in the council to add to the site by extending the Cooper Street front to the corner of
Dickenson Street, was, however, negatived by thirty-seven to eighteen. A report from the new Town Hall sub-committee states
that in their opinion there is upon the site adopted for the new Town Hall ample space to provide not only for the present
business of the various committees of the corporation, but also for any extension of departments that can be reasonably anticipated.
From information through the city surveyor, it appeared that the space now occupied for corporation business in the Town Hall
(exclusive of the mayor's parlour, the large room, the two committee-rooms, and the council chamber), is 1756 square yards; and
the space occupied out of the Town Hall is 1334 Square yards, making a total of 3090 square yards now occupied by the various
departments of the corporation; whilst the space in the plan of the city surveyor which may be appropriated and used for the same
purposes in the new Town Hall is 6254 square yards. Then the space in the present building of the two committee-rooms is 105
square yards; the mayor's parlour, 210; the council-chamber, 143; the large room 264; total, 722 square yards. The space
appropriated in the new hall for six committee-rooms is 575 Square yards; mayor's rooms (not including kitchen and bed-
rooms), 631 ; council-chamber, 200 ; large room, 702; total, 2108 square yards. In addition to the space thus provisionally
appropriated, there would be under the new building 705 Square yards of good cellars, 874 square yards on the second floor, and
2195 square yards on the third floor, or in all 3774 square yards available at any time, as required, for the purposes of the
corporation. Eight of the committees were also requested to report whether the space allotted to various departments was
respectively sufficient or not ; and, generally, the answers were in the affirmative. Consideration of an application to include the
Central Reference Free Library in the new Town Hall, was postponed until the final selection of designs should show to what extent
unappropriated space for any purpose would be available. At the city council of September 4, 1867, it was stated that the new
Town Hall sub-committee had induced Mr. Godwin, editor of The Builder, to come and inspect the designs; and he had selected
eight for competition, seven of which had the preference of the sub-committee. Ten designs were by the following eight
architects —Speakman and Charlesworth, Manchester (two designs); Edward Salomons, Manchester (two designs); J. O. Scott,
Spring Gardens, Charing Cross, London [who was said to be a son of Mr. Gilbert Scott]; Thomas Worthington, Manchester ;
Thomas Henry Wyatt, Great Russell Street, London ; William Lee, St. Michael's House, Cornhill, London; Alfred Waterhouse,
Manchester and London; Cuthbert Broderick, late of Leeds, and now of Buckingham Street, Strand, London. The following are
such particulars as have been furnished of the selected designs:– *-
No. - Motto. • Style. Estimate. No. Motto. Style. Estimate.
46. St, Michael e & Gothic #170,000 98. TMunicipal Gothic f246,850
55. Ring out the old, ring in the new g Gothic 275,000 99. ! unlclpa Italian 259,444
67. A black ball within a white and a black ring Gothic 198,935 | 119. Three Heb L tter Gothic 207,106
74. Time trieth Truth. . ge Gothic 206.175 120. three Hebrew Letters Italian 236,403
89. Polyanthus . e tº g Gothic 229,310 || 134. Aubon droit 6 w º Italian 199,888
The unsuccessful competitors in the second competition are to have £300 divided amongst them. “As an indication of the
views of the corporation, it is suggested that the total cost should not exceed £250,000, a sum considered to be ample for a building
of the first class ; and in case the plans selected cannot be satisfactorily carried out for that amount, or for the sum named in the
estimate of the architect accompanying the competition drawings, the right of rejecting such plans, and selecting those of another
competitor (paying for the first selected plans #300 and no more) is reserved by the corporation. The plans of the unsuccessful
competitors are to remain their own property, but the corporation claim the right of adopting any feature or suggestion contained
#umbren of Šalfort--ſºamchester parish. 381
therein, if they see fit.” Small portions of the external areas at the east and west corners of the Albert Square front may be
absorbed for towers, or other architectural features. “Provision must be made for a public clock in the central tower next Albert
Square, with four dials prepared for illumination.” The council-chamber is to be on the main floor in the front of the building.
For the mayor an official residence is to be provided in the building ; and a dining-room, with an area of 120 square yards, is to be
connected with the head-porter's department. The building is to average four storeys above ground.
The increase of population in several townships within the city, and the necessity for the local committees
of the council to transact business in their respective townships, led to the erection of town halls in Chorlton-
on-Medlock, Hulme, and Cheetham. That of Chorlton-on-Medlock, built in 1830-31, consists externally of
a central projecting portico, four fluted columns supporting an entablature surmounted by a pediment. It is
a neat building, but every way too small for the growing wants of the township. In the first floor is a room
used for public meetings, concerts, etc.—The Hulme Town Hall, in the Stretford Road, consists of a centre
and two wings. It is an edifice in the Italian style, the principal façade, in Stretford Road, being 184 feet
in length ; the central portion, 94 feet long and 66 feet high, being appropriated for the town hall and the
township offices. This portion, the first finished, was opened with a public dinner on the 10th January 1865.
The west wing, 45 feet long and 50 feet high, is wholly appropriated as the Hulme Branch Lending Library,
in connection with the Manchester Free Library. The east wing, of the same proportions, is used as overseers'
offices. The central building comprises, on the ground-floor, the township offices, a committee-room and
surveyor's department, and at the back, in Wall Street, a public weighing-machine and office. In the base-
ment are a spacious kitchen and offices, with serving-room and hoist to the upper floors, as well as workshops
and other conveniences connected with the township business. The principal floor is approached from the
central front entrance by a vestibule and grand staircase lighted by a stained-glass window blazoning the royal
arms, those of the duchy, the hundred, the city, and the township ; with emblematical figures of Industry,
Commerce, Peace, and Plenty. The hall is paved with encaustic tiles. On the principal or first floor is the
public room, 90 by 45 feet, and 38 feet high. It is lighted by day by seven windows in front ; at night by
three gas sunlights suspended from the ceiling. In connection with this room is a refreshment or supper
room, 35 by 22 feet, and 18 feet high, with dressing and retiring rooms. On the upper floor is another
supper or tea-room of the same dimensions, and, connected with it, dressing and retiring rooms. This hand-
some edifice was built from a design and under the superintendence of Mr. Lynde, the city surveyor ; and
the cost of the centre alone was about £12,000.-The Cheetham Town Hall, opened 5th January 1855, is an
elegant edifice on the Cheetham Hill Road, enclosed within palisades and gates. The ground-floor contains
various offices and committee-rooms, and the first, or principal floor, a public room for meetings, etc., with
which are connected ante-rooms and retiring-rooms.
The Salford Town Hall was originally built in the years 1825-6, and the Meat Market behind it was
opened in May 1827, consisting of two rows of stalls, with centre passage and cellars or meat-safes under
the stalls. The hall is Grecian-Doric, with stone front and brick sides; it has a façade towards Chapel
Street, much resembling in character that of the Chorlton-on-Medlock Town Hall—a pedimented portico;
but it is almost all centre, with mere rudimentary wings in front. Its accommodation then consisted of a
public hall, occupying the whole of the first or principal floor, 73 by 30 feet; on the left side a magistrates'
room or small court 30 by 16 feet 6 inches; and on the right side the treasurers' and collectors' offices, the
treasurer's office being also used as a committee-room ; and the police-cells occupying the basement of that
side of the building. The grant of incorporation in November 1844 created a necessity for further
accommodation; and additions were completed in 1847, including police courts and offices; additional rooms
to the treasurer's office for clerks to magistrates and Court of Record; a court for the petty sessions 58 feet
6 inches by 28 feet 6 inches; and separate entrances for the magistrates and the public, ante-rooms, police-
cells, etc. In 1848 a left wing was erected temporarily to provide a council chamber and ante-rooms.
In 1853 the hall was again extended over vacant land at the back, in order to provide offices for the water
department and the fire-brigades. This addition is of Roman-Doric, and but one storey high, of brick with
stone-dressings. In April 1860 the council determined to have a new westerly wing, after a plan by Mr.
J. Evans, district surveyor, and this was built in the years 1860-62, the temporary wing of 1849 being
taken down. Its length is 204 feet 4 inches by 33 feet, and it is in two storeys. The ground-floor
contains offices for the town-clerk, the district Surveyor, two committee-rooms, the sanitary inspectors'
office, etc. On the first floor are the Council-Chamber and the Court of Record for the Hundred
of Salford, which has a public entrance at the north end from West Market Street, and another from
the central corridor which separates the two wings. The court is approached by a flight of stone
steps. Its internal dimensions are 52 feet 8 inches by 28 feet 7 inches. The bench for the judge
is at the north end, and below is that for the registrar and his clerks. The usual provision is made
for the bar, jury, attorneys, and witnesses, reporters, etc. The seats for the public are at the south
end; and at this end the court is separated from the Council Chambers by a suite of rooms for the judge
and counsel, including consulting, luncheon, robing, and other rooms, lavatories, etc. The dimensions
of the Council Chamber are the same as those of the Court of Record ; but it is much more profusely
decorated. At the south end over the mantel-piece is a full-length portrait of Joseph Brotherton, esq., M.P.
382 (Iſiſt ºffigturg ºf £attrašijire.
The new wing is separated from the old (east) wing, by a corridor, covered with a glazed roof, and having
open iron trellis-work galleries running its whole length on each side; access to which is obtained by two
staircases at the main entrance of the building. These galleries give access to the various rooms and offices
on the second floor, and serve instead of lobbies. The entrance-hall and the corridor are paved with
encaustic and other tiles, some representing the royal arms and others those of the duchy and the borough.
The new west wing is in character Roman-Doric. On the 23d October 1862, the new Court of Record was
opened by its judge, Joseph Kay, esq., and there were present his predecessor, Mr. Sergeant. Wheeler, LL.D.;
Mr. J. Worrall, mayor; Mr. W. N. Massey, M.P. for the borough ; Sir James P. Kay-Shuttleworth, bart, and
a large number of members of the corporation and of the bar. Afterwards there was a luncheon in the new
Council Chamber, and in the evening a conversazione was given by the mayor, when the whole suite of rooms
in the new wing was thrown open; the corridor was fitted up as a saloon for refreshments, and at one end
of its gallery the band of the 49th Regiment performed operatic pieces, while a party of vocalists sang
in the Council Chamber, and the large meeting-hall (the area of which is 242 Square yards) was filled
with choice botanical specimens, philosophical instruments, models, etc. Upwards of 300 guests were
present in the old or west wing (which is of the same dimensions as the east wing). On the first floor
are the Borough Police Court, the stipendiary magistrates' room, and various offices; while on the ground
floor the police-force in the hall have their quarters. The old centre of the edifice in front contains the
mayor's parlour, a handsome and convenient apartment, and various offices, etc. The Town Hall, as extended
and enlarged in 1860-2, rendered it necessary to remove the market, the space of which is now covered by
the corridor and wings.
The Pendleton Town Hall, facing St. Thomas's Church, is a very handsome building in the Italian style,
from a design of Mr. Alfred Darbyshire, architect. The two principal fronts are faced with stone from the
Halifax quarries. The details are freely treated, and somewhat French in character, a freshness and spirit
being thereby produced, unattainable in the pure classic architecture of Italy. The building contains various
offices and rooms suitable for the transaction of the municipal business of the district, including the police
department. There is also on the first floor a large assembly-room, 85 feet 4 inches by 39 feet 5 inches,
approached by a grand staircase, lighted by a large window of painted glass, representing the heraldic bearings
of the county palatine of Lancaster ; the principal figure being the Queen, as “lady of the manor of Salford”
and “duchess of Lancaster.” The accommodation is more than requisite for the present wants of the district ;
but the rapid increase of its population and its growing importance have led to a wise provision for its future
wants. The building will shortly be completed (September 1867), and will probably be opened before the close
of the year. Its cost, exclusive of some of the furniture and fittings, will be about £12,000.-In Duke
Street, Broughton Lane, the township of Broughton has its town hall, a small building, with a room for
meetings, and offices for the overseers and other officers of the township.
The Manchester General Post Office has for many years been in Brown Street, within a few yards of
Market Street, in a very central situation. The postmaster is Mr. John St. Lawrence Beaufort. In connection
with this general office are numerous district receiving or branch post offices, money-order offices, and post-
office savings'-banks; and there are about sixty box or pillar posts in the different quarters of the city, of
Salford, and their outskirts.
Manchester is frequently represented as under the visitation of perpetual rain, but in reality the air and
climate in this place do not, in any material degree, differ from many other parts of the country in the same
degree of latitude, either in humidity, or in the range of the thermometer. It appears from the following
table, the result of fourteen years' observation, that there are here three wet days, and four days of fine
weather, in the week.
1 On the opening of the new court-house in October 1862, Mr.
Kay, its judge, said it was one of the most ancient institutions of
the kind in the country, having been founded in Anglo-Saxon times,
probably before King Alfred's time, and more than a thousand years
ago. The Saxons introduced from Germany, more than 1200 years
ago, the division of the country into hundreds, of which that of
Salford is one of the most ancient in the kingdom, and the only
one of South Lancashire which has never been dismembered. In
each of these hundreds the Saxons founded a court, called the
TWapentac, or court to which weapons were taken and allegiance
sworn. From early times down to the reign of Henry VI. the
hundred of Salford was called, after this court, “the Wapentake of
Salfordshire.” In the reign of Alfred, A.D. 871, these courts were
remodelled, their modes of procedure improved, and trial by jury
was introduced into them. In the reign of Ethelred, A.D. 978, it was
decreed that these courts should be held regularly in every wapen-
take, and that at their holding the sheriff and twelve principal
thanes should swear that they would not acquit any criminal, nor
convict any innocent person. In the reign of Edward the Confessor,
A.D. 1041, the “wapentake of Salfordshire” was held of the king.
In 1st John, 1199, it was held by Elias Fitz-Robert. In the reign
of Henry III., 1241, it was granted by the king to Earl Ferrers;
and temp. Edward III., 1330, it was held by Richard de Hilton,
at the will of the king. About 1436, Henry VI. by letters-patent
appointed Sir Richard Molyneux, and Richard his eldest son,
“steward of the Wapentake of Salfordshire,” to hold to Sir
Richard and his heirs-male. This grant was confirmed in several
Subsequent reigns, and since the days of Henry VI., for more than
400 years, the Molyneuxes, Earls of Sefton, have continued high-
stewards of this most ancient court. In early times this court had
ecclesiastical, civil, and criminal jurisdiction ; wills were promul-
gated and slaves manumitted in open court, bargains of sale
concluded, and deeds executed and witnessed. Before the Conquest
these courts were held twelve times a-year ; in the reign of Henry I.
once a-fortnight ; and Henry III. ordered, in 1234, that they should
be held every three weeks. And the court had been so held down
to the reign of Victoria, when the act was passed regulating and
enlarging its jurisdiction. That jurisdiction extended over all the
hundred of Salford except the city of Manchester; and the court
could try all causes of action involving claims not exceeding £50,
with certain exceptions. In 1856 its procedure was assimilated to
that of the Superior courts at Westminster and the Courts of Assize.
#umbrel of $alfort-ſºlamriješter 33arisiſ. 383
Table showing the mean quantity of Rain, and number of Wet Days, in Manchester, from 1807 to 1824, both inclusive.
January. February. March. April. Ma. June.
Inches of Wet Inches of Wet Inches of Wet Inches of Wet Inches . Wet, Inches of Wet
Rain. Days. Rain. Days. Rain. Days. Rain. Days. Rain. T)ays. Rain. Days.
2°234 12 2'454 13 2'456 13 I '713 13 2 '824 14 2'433 12
July. August. September. October. November. December.
Inches of Wet Inches of Wet Inches of Wet Inches of Wet Inches of Wet Inches of Wet
Rain. Days. Rain. Days. Rain. Days. Rain. Days. Rain. Days, Rain. Tays.
3'427 15 3'163 16 3'002 , 14 3.789 I6 3'493 16 3'559 14
Dr. Dalton, in the “Memoirs of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society,” has given, at two
periods, long series of recorded observations of the monthly and annual mean heights of the barometer (for 25
and for 22 years); and the following exhibits the monthly mean height of the barometer in Manchester (one
which stood nearly 1-10th of an inch higher than other good barometers do in the same situation) for the 47
years from 1794 to 1840 inclusive —
Inches. Inches. Inches. Inches.
łº, ; * This was below the * ; 129958. Above the general
March . tº e 29'89 general mean. September . * 29 '93 | Iłł.68. Il.
* ; * Above the general º ; º; | 29.806. Below the general
Jume . & s 29 '99 Illeå,1], December . º 29 °81 | Iºl Cail.
* mean for º ! 29'88
The same philosopher has recorded the monthly mean height of the thermometer, and also the annual mean, for the same 47
years, from 1794 to 1840 inclusive. Dr. Dalton says he used a thermometer of the common construction, placed outside a window,
the daily observations being made, like those of the barometer, at 8 A.M. and at 1 and 11 P.M. –January, 36°7; February, 39°3;
March, 4198; April, 4791; May, 5392; June, 5892; July, 6098; August, 60°4; September, 56°3; October, 5090; November 4299;
and December, 3990. The annual mean temperature for the 47 years was 48°8. Dr. Dalton states that the average temperature of
the year depends much on that of the winter months, which are so various in our climate. January (as might be expected) is the
coldest month of the year, and the temperature gradually increases with the approach of the Sun till July, which is the warmest
month of the year, but August is little inferior to it. April and October are the months which approach nearest to the mean
temperature of the year; but the former is colder, and the latter warmer than the mean.
Dr. Dalton also gives a table of the rain-fall at Manchester in each month for the same 47 years (1794-1840 inclusive), the total
quantity in each year, and the monthly and annual mean in the period, which shows a still Smaller mean rain-fall than that given in
the table, page 382. The monthly means are —January, 2257 inches; February, 2:444; March, 2:304; April, 2-109; May, 2:460 ;
June, 2-691; July, 3706; August, 3:478; September, 3.195 ; October, 3.733; November, 3710; and December, 3,43i inches.
The yearly mean of the period was 35-518 inches, being 0-622 inches less than the annual mean of the 33 years elsewhere recorded.
We append a summary of the uppermost deposits or soils of Manchester and its neighbouring townships,
from a “Sketch of the Drift Deposits of Manchester and its Neighbourhood,” by E. W. Binney, esq., F.R.S.,
F.G.S., etc., read by him in January 1847 before the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, and
printed in its Memoirs (vol. viii. of 2d series, p. 195). The chief part of the district around Manchester, before
it was covered with drift, consisted of upper new red sandstone rock, with slight portions of lower new red
sandstone and magnesian marls, and the hard sandstone and limestone rocks, and cold clays and shales, of the
coal-fields of Manchester and Pendleton—all deposits, in the primeval state, capable of supplying little
nourishment to vegetation. It is to the period when the drift was formed that the greatest part of the soils
of this country owe their formation, admixture, and arrangement. The following remarks relate to foreign, and
not to local drift. The drift, in and about Manchester, may be conveniently divided into the following
deposits, in the descending order:- -
No. 1. A bed of coarse gravel, composed of various sized rocks (as described in the general sketch of the geology of the county,
under the head Valley Gravel). On the top of this are generally found about 3 or 4 feet of silty loam. Its thickness varies from
an inch or two to 12 yards. It is found in the valley of the Irwell, Lower Broughton, and generally, more or less, in the beds and on
the sides of the three great valleys near Manchester (those of the Irwell, the Irk, and the Medlock).
No. 2. A deposit of sharp forest-sand and gravel (as described in the county geology). It sometimes contains thin beds of
till lying in it, ranges up to 25 yards in thickness, and is found at Irlam's-o'-th’-Height, Pendleton, Kersal Moor, Higher Broughton,
Cheetham Hill, Harpurhey, and Crumpsall.
No. 3. “Till,” a mass of strong brown clay (described as above), being valuable brick-clay. Several beds of fine laminated
silt and patches of sand are found on it. Thickness variable up to 30 yards. It is the brick-clay of Manchester, Salford, Strange-
ways, Cheetham, Beswick, Bradford, Ardwick, Openshaw, and Longsight.
No. 4. A bed of Sand or coarse gravel (described above as the lower gravel), affording good springs of bright water. It varies
in thickness up to 11 yards, but is seldom above 2 or 3 yards thick. It is found in the valley of the Irwell at Pendleton Colliery,
in Cheetham Street, Rochdale Road, Beswick, Victoria Park, and under the till in the higher part of King Street and Spring
Gardens, Manchester.
Generally speaking, the older strata in the vicinity of Manchester, both carboniferous and new red sandstone, are so thickly
covered with drift, as to affect only in a small degree the hydrometrical state of the subsoils on which the town and its suburbs are
erected. The carboniferous deposit has scarcely any houses erected immediately upon it ; and although the new red sandstone, in
the lower parts of the city of Manchester and borough of Salford, has a considerable number resting upon it, they are very few in
comparison with those situated on the drift.
MANCHESTER.—The site on which this township stands is nearly all strong brick-clay (No. 3.) quite impervious to water.
* The writer now possesses this instrument.—H.
384 (The ºigturn of £attrašijire.
With two or three exceptions (along the valley of the Irk, and through Cross Street, King Street, Brazennose Street, down
Deansgate to the Medlock, of upper red sandstone on the river-banks, and gravel No. 1 in the higher portion—both forming
good dry subsoils), the surface of this township consists of till ; in other words, is of strong brick-clay, and its drainage must be
effected entirely from the undulatory character of the ground, and not from the porous nature of the soil. -
ARDWICK.—The surface of the south-east portion of this township mostly consists of gravel (No. 1). The tract bounded by the
river Medlock on the north, Chorlton-on-Medlock on the west, and a line from near the bridge in Fairfield Street, round past the
Cemetery to the Polygon, on the south—comprising the most populous part of the township—is dry gravel, often resting on upper
new red sandstones, having 2 or 3 feet of silty loam at the top. The south-east part of the township, towards Openshaw, Long-
sight, and Victoria Park, consists of strong brick-clay (No. 3) of variable thickness. The greater part of the houses built on this
suburb of Manchester, being built on No. 1, are on a dry soil, which will much assist in the drainage of the water.
BRADFORD.—This township is upon No. 3, with the exception of a little strip of land in the valley of the Medlock, below the
Philips Park, which consists of No. 1.
BESWICK.—The whole of this township is upon No. 3. -
CHORITON-UPON-MEDLOCK.—The area, bounded by the river Medlock and Hulme on the south-west, Ardwick on the north-
east, and a line drawn from the Polygon to the south-west corner of Greenheys Field (nearly the course of the Cornbrook), is all
. gravel (No. 1); but the ground to the south-east of the line, including the upper portion of Brook Street and Greenheys, is
rick-clay (No. 3).
HULME.—The whole of this township may be regarded as upon gravel (No. 1), resting in some places on till, at others on
upper new red sandstone, affording fine dry land for building purposes. Near the Trinity Church, Stretford New Road, the gravel
and till are 16 yards thick. In the valley of the Medlock is a deposit of later origin than any other alluded to here, and evidently
formed by the present river—a bed of blue silty clay, in which, 12 feet below the surface, was found an oak-tree, 11 yards long and
2 feet 7 inches in diameter at its middle, apparently in what had once been the bed of the Medlock.
SALFORD.—The lower portions of this township, skirting the banks of the Irwell from Broughton Bridge to Albert Bridge (New
Bailey), are either on the upper new red sandstone, or on gravel (No. 1); but the higher parts of the town, about King Street,
St. Stephen's Street, Shaw's Brow, Adelphi, the Crescent, Oldfield Lane, and the greater part of Regent Road and Cross Lane, are
on the brick-clay (No. 3). The whole of the flat tract of land in the valley of the Irwell, from below Ordsall Hall to Mode
Wheel, is on No. 1. The till above Cross Lane, according to the opinions of the well-sinkers employed in the neighbourhood,
varies from 25 to 30 yards in thickness.
PENDLETON.—The land near Windsor Bridge, as well as that adjoining Cross Lane, is brick-clay (No. 3); but all the higher
parts of the township are of light dry sand and fine gravel (No 2); both admirably adapted for drainage; whilst the lower part
in the valley of the Irwell is of gravel (No. 1), permeable by water.
CHEETHAM.—The houses in Strangeways, on the flat part of the land adjoining the Irwell, built on No. 1, form the only exception
in the southern and midland portions of this township—comprehending Strangeways, Red Bank, Stocks, and Cheetwood—to the
thick deposit of brick-clay (No. 3) on which the greater number of the houses of this township are erected. All the district north
of a line running a little south of Northumberland Street, through Temple toll-bar to Smedley Vale, is upon fine Sand (No. 2).
The general character of the subsoil of the thickly-built portion of the township, with the exception of the low part of Strangeways
in the valley of the Irwell, which is chiefly on gravel (No. 1), is decidedly unfavourable to matural drainage. In the highest parts
of the township, in Cheetwood and Mount Pleasant, the till is supposed to reach full 25 yards in thickness.
CRUMPSALL.-The whole of the higher part of this township may be considered as being upon a very dry bed of sand (No. 2),
most admirably adapted for drainage. Descending to Lower Crumpsall, the till is met with on the hill-sides, coming out from
under the sand; and in the valley of the Irk is gravel (No. 1). The sand (No. 2) has been penetrated, near the Staff of Life public-
house, Cheetham Hill, for 15 yards, in searching for water, without its entire thickness being proved.
BROUGHTON.—The lower part of this township, in the valley of the Irwell, is situate on sand and gravel (No. 1), and the
higher and more northerly portion on fine sand (No. 2). The only place where the brick-clay (No. 3) occurs is a strip of land
running by the westerly side of the Bury New Road, from the end of Broughton Lane to Mount Broughton, and extending over
the rising ground above Stony Knolls. With this exception, the district is on a dry bottom, and well drained by the nature of its
subsoils. l The entire thickness of fine sand (No. 2) on the highest parts of Kersal Moor must be fully 20 yards before the till
is reached. -
The WALLEYs and BROOK-COURSES.—The valley of the Irwell (much the most extensive) has been cut through the elevated
lands of Kersal and Broughton on the one side, and those of Pendleton on the other (composed of Nos. 2 and 3), and through the
rising grounds of Manchester and Salford (composed of Nos. 3 and 4), into the upper new red sandstone rock; and the latter has
afterwards been more or less covered by No. 1, which extends over nearly the whole of Hulme and the lower south-west portion of
Salford.
The valley of the Irk, between Crumpsall and Harpurhey, is cut through Nos. 2 and 3 into red sandstone; between Collyhurst
and Smedley into the coal-measures; and in Newtown and Cheetham through No. 3 into the new red sandstone. As it enters
Manchester by Long Millgate, to its junction with the valley of the Irwell, its sides towards the south and south-east are composed
of No. 1. Portions of this deposit are also met with in Small patches in its northern part, below Crumpsall; but the main portion
of the valley, as it approaches Manchester, is almost without it.
The valley of the Medlock, in Bradford and Beswick, is through Nos. 3 and "4, into the coal-measures; and in Ardwick,
Chorlton, and Manchester, through the same deposits into the upper new red sandstone. The beds of gravel and sand found in
Ardwick, Chorlton-on-Medlock, and Hulme, like those of the Irk, appear to have been swept out of the upper part of the valley of
the Medlock ; but some of them may have been derived from the Irwell. The deposit No. 1 extends much further on the eastern
than on the western side of the present river-courses. All these three valleys bear evidence of having been formed under the sea.
The Small valleys in which the Cheetham brooks, Shooter's Brook, and Cornbrook flow, are all cut through No. 3, and contain
little if any of deposit No. 1 until they reach the larger valleys.
On every side of Manchester and Salford we find “the Till,” which can be pretty well traced by the numerous brick-yards
upon it, on the gently-rising grounds adjoining the valleys ; and in most parts where the ground rises to a considerable elevation,
this deposit is capped by beds of sand and gravel. Thus the brick-clay of Windsor Bridge is capped by the sands of Pendleton ;
those of Stony Knolls, Cheetham, and Collyhurst, by the sands of Higher Broughton, Cheetham Hill, and Harpurhey. A portion
of till is frequently found in the valleys, lying under the sand and gravel (No. 1), as proved by a section of Mr. Fitzgerald's pit at
Pendleton, which shows that portions of it have been removed by currents of water during the formation of the valleys.
Of the sanitary condition of Manchester a brief notice must suffice. At the tenth annual congress of
the National Association for the Promotion of Social Science, held in Manchester in October 1866, Messrs.
Arthur Ransome and William Royston presented a report, which they had been requested by the council of
the association to prepare, “upon the health of Manchester and Salford during the last fifteen years” (1851-
1865). They found that the annual mortality, or deaths in 1000 living persons of the population, in the
Manchester registration district, were an average of 33 in the ten years 1841-51, and 31 in the ten years
ºumbren of Šalford–ſtlanthester parish. 385
1851–61. In the Salford registration district the deaths in 1000 in these two periods were 28 and 26. In
the five years 1861-5, the yearly death-rate in Manchester was 33, in Salford 27. On the average, in
the fifteen years the death-rate in every 1000 living persons in Manchester was 32; in the township of
Manchester 34; and in Liverpool 34. Of children under fifteen years, the mortality in 1861 for every 1000
of the population under that age was in Manchester 47-5, the deaths being 3946 in a population of 88,038
under fifteen years of age. In Liverpool in 1861 the death-rate under that age was 53.4. The reporters
say that there is nothing in the geographical situation of Manchester and Salford, or in the geological
formation of their sites, to account for their high rates of mortality. They add—
“Our attention is at once arrested by the catalogue of Sanitary sins, with their inseparable evils, which are furnished in the
earlier records of the Sanitary Association—the narrow courts, the back-to-back houses, all overcrowded with immates, the faulty
drainage, the open and foetid cesspools teeming with filth, the atmosphere charged with impurities and noxious gases, the neglect
of all precautions against infectious disease. . . . . . But since 1851 much has been done to improve the physical condition of
the city. Some of the worst parts of the town have been demolished to make room for broad streets and stately warehouses.
From returns by officers of the city-council we learn that the number of inhabited cellar-dwellings has diminished nearly one-half—
viz. from 4849 in the year 1852, to 2762 in 1865; and their inhabitants by 8348—viz, from 19,396 to 11,048 persons. Within
the same period a large amount of drainage has been effected. Between 1850, and 1859 an area of more than 200,000 square yards
of streets, courts, etc., was paved and drained, at a cost of about £60,000. Since 1851 also, by the energy of the corporation and
the engineering skill of Mr. Bateman, Manchester has been supplied with plenty of almost perfectly pure and soft water from the
Derbyshire and Yorkshire hills, from reservoirs capable of supplying about thirty-nine million gallons daily.” To this supply the
reporters attribute the remarkable freedom of Manchester from diarrhoea and other kindred disorders. “In 1854, when cholera
attacked with severity many other parts of England, Manchester entirely escaped. In Salford similar improvements have been
carried out, and in addition to ordinary municipal and Sanitary work, a most excellent system of Sanitary inspection has been in
practice for several years.”
The Sanitary Association was founded in 1852, having for its great objects to promote temperance,
personal and domestic cleanliness, and due regard to the laws of health. By many publications and lectures,
and class-instruction, this Association endeavoured to spread useful information amongst the working-classes.
“Since 1854 they have done their best to guard the inhabitants of the town from the attacks of epidemic diseases by urging
from time to time the removal of nuisances and the adoption of improved methods of dealing with sewage, as well as by pointing
out the necessity of vaccination for the prevention of Small-pox, the use of disinfecting agents, and the advantages of the removal
of the sick poor from the neighbourhood of the healthy to special wards or hospitals; and, as occasion arose, they have published
and circulated recommendations respecting the Various epidemics of typhus, Small-pox, Scarlet-fever, measles, and hooping-cough.
e They have petitioned that more power of dealing with unhealthy conditions of rivers, houses, and districts, should be granted
to the corporation ; and have promoted the formation of a nurses’ home and training school, with a view to the employment of
district nurses as sanitary missionaries throughout the town. The committee began in 1854 to make returns of the mortality from
epidemic disease in the several districts of Manchester, and they now also publish weekly returns of disease and death. º ºg
Strenuous exertions have been made both to make Manchester a more healthy place to dwell in and to improve the condition of
the inhabitants. What, then, has been the result In the first few years of the association the death-rate varied slightly from
37-2 to 35.7 per 1000; then from 1856 to 1860 the mortality seemed to diminish (the average being only 31-6 deaths per 1000),
but the five following years (1861-1865) disappointed these anticipations. In 1861 the death-rate was 33 per 1000; in 1863, 357
per 1000; and in 1865, 39.0 per 1000—higher than ever since the registration of deaths.”
This is shown to have been in no degree due to the cotton-famine; but rather to typhus fever being
very rare in the earlier part of the fifteen years, and very frequent and extensive in the later years. In 1865,
about 2000 cases of typhus were under treatment in public practice alone, and 911 deaths from this cause
were registered in the eleven districts which make returns to the association. In the last ten years, 1851–61,
the average annual death-rates for Manchester and Salford were 33 and 26 in the 1000—almost exactly the
same as in the ten years 1841-51. Immigration of working people from the country, and emigration of the
upper classes from the town, have increased the population of some districts in Manchester, while all have
been entirely drained of their wealthiest and healthiest inhabitants. The reporters attribute the heavy death-
rate to—(1) Physical causes, including bad buildings, filthy and ill-ventilated dwellings, dark and noisome
cellars, want of better drainage, neglected and filthy privies, cesspools, etc.; and (2) to the vitiated atmo-
sphere of Manchester, not only from Smoke but various other impurities, solid, vaporous, and gaseous ;
especially as the air is found to contain an inordinate amount of carbonic acid, with a diminished proportion
of oxygen, besides sulphuric acid and other irritating vapours, and probably also various organic compounds.
This state of the atmosphere causes prevalence of affections of the lungs. Not only phthisis, but bronchitis,
influenza, and catarrh, occur much more frequently in proportion to other diseases in Manchester than in
London. Sixty per cent of the adult population of Manchester (between 20 and 60) die of lung-disease, the
average duration of life being only 42 years. Amongst the moral and social causes of disease are classed
intemperance, hereditary disease, ignorance, and want of care in the nurture and rearing of children, etc.
The reporters suggest as means for the improvement of the health of Manchester and Salford—
1. Better and healthier homes for the working-classes. 2. All back-to-back houses to be done away with by breaking
through the partition-walls, and no permanent division allowed between the back and front portions of dwellings. 3. Cellar-
dwellings should be entirely abolished. 4. Over-crowding should be prevented, not only in lodging-houses, but in all other
dwellings. 5. Complete reformation of “the present detestable system of privies and ashpits,” either by the substitution of a
well-arranged and well-ventilated water-system, or by some other means of completely preventing the accumulation of filth and
the formation of noisome exhalations. 6. All streets or alleys closed at One end should be made thoroughfares, and all courts,
etc., should be opened out at both ends by streets, not by covered passages. 7. Wide open spaces should be left in different parts
of the town. 8. Any fouling of the atmosphere by Smoke, or by any injurious gases from manufactories, should be prevented as
386 (Iije Đígtorg of £antaghire.
much as possible. 9. Reception-houses for infectious complaints should be established in different parts of the town, and, upon
the occurrence of any epidemic, these should be increased in number as the need may be felt. 10. Some more efficient control
should be exerted over the sale of intoxicating liquors. 11. District-nurses should be appointed in every part of Manchester, not
only to tend the sick poor, but to act as missionaries of sanitary truths, to teach the value of the laws of health, and especially to
guide mothers in the nurture and management of their children. 12. A medical officer should be appointed to Superintend all
Sanitary improvements, and to be responsible for the proper carrying out of the necessary regulations.
With reference to the suggestion No. 5, there is great difference of opinion, both as to the kind of
house or office, and as to the means of removal of its contents. Mr. Heron (town-clerk of Manchester) states
that about 100,000 tons are removed yearly from the cesspools and ashpits, at a cost of about £20,000,
about half of which amount is obtained by the sale of the manure. The sewage question finds many able
advocates, respectively for the dry and the water removal, for ordinary water-closets and sewers, for boxes of
earth, etc. Some authorities contend that, whatever system be adopted, it should be one and uniform through-
out a large town or city; others that it is necessary to have more than one system in the same town. As to
the pollution of rivers by manufacturing produce and residue, or by city-sewage, Dr. Southwood Smith and
Mr. P. H. Holland, after careful examination, came to the conclusion that though the rivers flowing through
Manchester are very foul, they had not to a great degree caused the evil effects laid to their charge, of
engendering severe types of epidemic and other disease. It has been satisfactorily shown that much of the
dense Smoke that fouls the atmosphere of Manchester is easily preventible by mechanical means, and
especially by careful firing or stoking. On the 4th September 1867, the council resolved “That it is
expedient that an officer of health for this city be forthwith appointed.” The duties of the proposed officer
of health were stated as follow :-
“The first and most important duty of the officer of health would doubtless be to ascertain the rate of mortality in the
various districts or wards into which the city might be divided ; and further, to find out in what special districts, or part of
such districts, the highest mortality prevailed, and by careful inquiry and personal examination to discover in any such districts
the physical condition and the particular circumstances environing the population. It would be the duty of the officer of health
to carry out to such an extent as may be deemed to be desirable the act for preventing the adulteration of articles of food or drink;
and also from time to time to examine the condition of the waters flowing through the city in uncovered rivers, brooks, and
Smaller watercourses; and to ascertain with what matters such waters were polluted, how far they give rise to gaseous or
vaporous emanations of an injurious character, and to what extent their passage into the streams might be avoided. He would
place himself in communication with the owners of manufactories from which anything offensive was evolved, and endeavour by
friendly advice and assistance to get the evils complained of mitigated ; and there is every reason to believe, that except in
special and rare instances, the lessening of such nuisances would be more effectually accomplished in the way suggested than
by Offensive pressure or legal prosecution. The condition of the sewers, and the emanations from them, would necessarily occupy
a portion of the attention of such officer, and the best mode of getting rid of, or neutralising and rendering inoperative, the noxious
gases therein. Graveyards within the boundaries of the city would also claim his notice. On the invasion of any epidemic he
would investigate the circumstances which had produced or fostered the outbreak, and would endeavour to devise means to
mitigate its severity, and to lead to its removal. The question how best to deal with ashpits or cesspools so as to render them
innocuous, and whether some general plan could not be devised by which the solid and liquid matters could be kept distinct, so
as to lessen the tendency to putrescent fermentation, would deserve careful consideration. He would place himself in constant
communication with the Sanitary and other committees of the corporation, and would from time to time lay before the members
his investigations and the results of his inquiries, and with them would consider the best means to be adopted to meet the evils
which his researches might prove to exist.”
The water-supply to a great town is always a subject of vital importance. In its older days, Manchester
was supplied from a fountain or spring, in or near Fountain Street, the water from which was conducted
through pipes down Market Street to the Conduit in the Market-place, whence it was drawn by the inhabit-
ants in turn. The supply from this source ceased about 1775. Water was next taken from the Medlock,
the Infirmary Pond, and the Shudehill pits, and from various private wells and pumps; the water being hard
and of bad quality. About 1809 an incorporated company bought the water from the lord of the manor,
and supplied the town ultimately from four reservoirs at Bradford, Beswick, Gorton, and Audenshaw, through
stone pipes, for which it was found necessary to substitute others of iron. Under various acts of parliament,
the Manchester and Salford Waterworks Company continued inadequately to supply the inhabitants with a
Water of by no means good quality, till, on seeking parliamentary powers to divert some brooks, the mill-
owners on the streams defeated their object ; and in 1845 and following years various schemes were pro-
pounded by different companies. The corporation of Manchester, deeming it a subject of such importance
as to render it desirable, if not necessary, for them to have complete control over the supply, also proposed to
supply the town. After an inquiry by commissioners in the Manchester Town-Hall in January and February
1847, a bill passed through Parliament, by which the Manchester, Sheffield, and Lancashire Railway Com-
pany obtained some privileges, but only to sell water to Manchester, if Manchester would buy. In fact,
their act gave little power beyond that of selling water from the canals to whomsoever would buy. The
Corporation Waterworks' bill proposed to construct large reservoirs in the valley of Longdendale, and to
obtain powers over a gathering-ground, sufficient, after compensating the mill-owners, to secure for Manchester
a constant supply of from fifteen to twenty million gallons per day. After the case for this bill had been
completed before the parliamentary committee, the promoters of the Etherow Reservoirs bill proposed terms
which were agreed to by the corporation, and by which an extension of the original scheme was obtained of
Several thousand acres of gathering-ground, increasing the water-supply to Manchester to twenty-five instead
of fifteen to twenty million gallons daily. Under these two acts, the present Corporation Waterworks were
#umbret of Šalfort—ſianchester 33arish. 387
constructed. A dispute, arising between the corporations of Manchester and Salford, as to the terms on
which the former was to supply the latter with water, was ultimately settled by an agreement, of which the
following is a copy:-
“Town Hall, Manchester, 11th March 1850.-The corporation of Salford to purchase the estate and interest of Manchester in Salford,
and One million gallons of water daily, for a perpetual annual rent of £5562 : 10s, payable quarterly, from and after the 1st day of
January 1851. That from and after the 1st day of January 1856, the rental to be increased to £6000, and the supply of water to
Salford to one million two hundred and fifty thousand gallons of water daily. That from and after the 1st day of January 1858, the
perpetual annual rental to be increased to £6500, and the Supply of water to one million five hundred thousand gallons of water daily.”
The corporation next bought the works, right, and interest of the Manchester and Salford Waterworks
Company, from 1st January 1851, for £533,760, or a yearly payment of £26,650, with power to buy off
the annual payments at twenty years' purchase. At that time the quantity of water supplied to Manchester
was not three million gallons daily. They had three reservoirs at Beswick, and two at Gorton, capable of
containing altogether about forty-one million cubic feet of water; and the total length of their mains in
November 1850 was about 120 miles. The corporation constructed six new reservoirs at Woodhead, Torside,
Rhodes Wood, Armfield, Hollinworth, and Godley, which (with the Denton and Gorton reservoirs), possess a
total capacity of 611,872,600 cubic feet, or 3,828,000,000 gallons; and these received the water from various
brooks and from a gathering-ground of 18,900 statute acres' area, or 29% square miles, at a considerable
elevation above the sea-level. The tract of country, including the gathering-ground, reservoirs, and other
works, measures about 10% miles from east to west, and about 6 miles from north to south.
The quantity of pure water which can be collected is estimated to afford an average daily supply of about
twenty-five million gallons. The Water is brought from its sources of supply, about twenty miles from
|Manchester, through pipes of large bore, and also through the Mottram tunnel (2770 yards) to Manchester
and the neighbouring storage-reservoirs, whence it is now distributed throughout Manchester and Salford,
and many adjacent suburban districts—in all to twenty-nine townships, having a population of about 650,000.
The water is exceedingly pure and soft, being of only one degree of hardness, according to the test of that
high authority, Dr. Clarke of Aberdeen. The storage in the various reservoirs was estimated to exceed 600
million cubic feet. The mains, etc., throughout Manchester and Salford, were coated inside and out by a sort
of asphalte, a patent process of Dr. Robert Angus Smith of Manchester, which preserves them from corrosion,
from damp, etc. Connected with the mains is a series of hydrants, throwing up streams of water to a
considerable height, and thus proving invaluable, with or without hose and branch-pipes, in cases of fire. In
the city of Manchester alone the street water-mains (varying in bore from 2 to 28 inches) are about 80
miles in length. In short, the water-supply of Manchester is perhaps the best in the kingdom, the most
complete in its arrangements, the fullest in quantity, and the purest in quality, enjoyed by any great town
in England. These vast works were executed on the plans and under the direction of Mr. J. F. Bateman, C.E."
In 1867 another large storage-reservoir on the Prestwich hills was completed, so as more abundantly to
supply the higher parts of the town and district north of the town. The 30-inch main from Godley to
Prestwich was completed in November 1866. By this means water was supplied to Denton and Droylsden
in January 1867, in which month water reached the Prestwich hills reservoir. There are two rates of
payment for water: the domestic rate in 1867 was 9d. in the pound on the net annual value, and the private
(or trade) rate, of 3d. in the pound on one-fourth of the net annual value, for all water used for trade or
business purposes.
In laying the mains throughout the city, special regard was had for the extinction of fires. Twenty
fire-cocks within 100 yards can be brought into play within a few minutes, the pressure in the mains being
sufficient to throw the water over the loftiest building. In this way the use of fire-engines has been rendered
unnecessary. The daily quantity of water used (1866) is about twelve or thirteen million gallons, or about
twenty gallons per head per day, of which about one-third is used for trading purposes, leaving about thirteen
gallons per head per day as the average consumption for domestic use. The outlay, including the cost of
purchasing the old company's works, amounted in 1866 to about a million and a half sterling, of which
£960,000 have been expended in making new works, and providing for the distribution within the district,
and £540,000 paid in the purchase of the old water company's works and rights. Within Manchester the
domestic rate of 9d. in the pound and the public rate of 3d. are equal to about 7d. and 2}d. respectively in
the pound on the actual rent. Beyond the city 5 per cent on the rack-rent is charged. The revenue from
the sale of water for trading purposes is about £58,000 yearly, being more than half the total amount from
all sources. When the full supply of twenty-five million gallons daily is given, the total cost of the water
will be nearly 26, per thousand gallons, or for the new works about a penny per thousand gallons,——the
cheapest supply on a large scale ever afforded (the city of Glasgow alone excepted), while in quality and
efficiency it is exceeded in no city in the world.”
1. An interesting account of the heavy floods in the streams and storage-reservoirs of the waterworks, by Mr. Bateman, will be
found in the “Memoirs of the Literary and Philosophical Society of Manchester” (2d series, vol. x. 1852, p. 137).
2 See a statement by Mr. J. F. Bateman, F.R.S., C.E., in the “Transactions of the Social Science Association,” 1866, page 601.
3S8 The #istory of Lancashire.
By an act (30 Vict, cap. 36, passed 31st May 1867) for the extension of the Corporation Waterworks, and of the limits of their
supply, etc., a number of works are specified which the corporation has power given to execute, including main and other conduits,
aqueducts, or watercourses, in the townships of Gorton, Denton, township and parish of Ashton-under-Lyme, parish of Prestwich-
cum-Oldham, and the township of Pendlebury. By clause 17, the limits of water-supply are extended, so as to comprise “the
Pendleton district ;” the corporation not to levy any water-rates or to charge more for water to the Pendleton than they do or may
do to the Broughton district. The Manchester corporation is not to sell or distribute water within the limits of the Ashton-under-
Lyne acts without the consent in writing of the corporation of that borough. The Manchester corporation has power under this
act to borrow for their water-works any additional sums not exceeding £160,000. A schedule annexed to the act contains articles
of agreement, of 31st October 1866, between the corporations of Manchester and Salford, amongst other things, removing the
Pendleton district from the Salford to the Manchester limits of water-supply—to be supplied from the new reservoir of the
Manchester corporation on Prestwich hills, or their other works from Godley to Prestwich ; a main pipe to be laid from that
reservoir, so as to make a junction with the existing water-mains in the Pendleton district near Irlam's-o'-th’-Height. The Salford
Waterworks staff in the Pendleton district to manage the waterworks in that district, under the direction of the Manchester
corporation; to collect and receive all rates, rents, etc. due for water supplied thereto, and pay over the same to the Manchester
corporation ; the latter to purchase of the Salford corporation all their mains and fixed plant in the Pendleton district, in use on
30th June 1866, for £11,308, and whatever had been put down after that date at the cost invoice-price.
In all large towns and cities the danger and loss of life and property by fire is a subject demanding the
greatest attention from the municipal authorities. When it is stated that in the fifteen years 1847-1861 inclusive,
the extent of the damage to property in the city of Manchester and its suburbs exceeded a million sterling,
being a yearly average of about £71,000, some account of the means taken to extinguish fire will be naturally
expected. For some years a gradual change of system has been organised and perfected, both as to the
rapidity of transmitting information of fires to the proper quarters, and as to the prompt and plentiful supply
of water, and the mode of using it in the extinction of fire, both of which require some notice.
Formerly, and for many years, the chief fire-station was in the police-yard, Clarence Street, and the firemen lived in cottages
in the neighbourhood. In January 1865 the chief fire-station was removed thence to extensive and well-arranged premises in Jack-
son's Row, Albert Square, erected for the purpose, consisting of a spacious court-yard (for drilling the firemen, etc.), surrounded by the
dwellings of the officers and men, offices, workshops, sheds for the engines, etc., and stables for the horses required. Next the street
are the outer gates of the yard and the office of the chief superintendent, Mr. Alfred Tozer, with his residence adjoining. Behind
is the inquiry-office, which is also the telegraph-station and the waiting-room for the firemen, whose uniforms and helmets hang
around. From this office a door opens into the engine-house, where are four 9-inch cylinder engines of 8-inch stroke, two horse and
one hand hose-cart, and a fire-escape, with the requisite hose, etc. . Adjoining the engine-house is a drying-room capable of being
heated to 150°Fahrenheit, and maintaining an equal temperature, for drying wet hose-pipes in a few hours. An open shed receives
the police vans, which are horsed by the same animals used for the fire-engines. The stables have accommodation for eight horses;
six are usually kept. Next are the workshops, where all kinds of ordinary repairs are made on the engines and apparatus. Surrounding
the court-yard are buildings of three storeys for the residences of the firemen, capable of accommodating sixteen married men; those
with small families being allowed to take as lodgers one or more single firemen. At this station there are always 16 men by night,
20 by day; all being permanently employed there at regular wages. The next fire-station in importance is in Boond Street, Pollard
Street, which is on the cottage plan, the 18 night and 9 day firemen being placed in 8 cottages, adjoining which is a yard, with
engine-house, stables, etc. . One 9-inch cylinder engine is kept there, a horse and a hand-hose cart, a fire-escape, five hand-pumps,
etc. A third in Great Jackson Street, City Road, is a police and fire station combined, with a yard, 2 cottages, 3 men, an engine,
a fire-escape, etc. There are in all 11 stations in various parts of the city, which are both fire and police stations, besides others at
the Royal Infirmary ; the Assize Courts, Strangeways; and the Hulme Town Hall, Stretford Road, in all 16 stations, to which are
distributed 6 fire-engines, 9 hand and 3 horse hose-carts, 32 hand-pumps, 7 fire-escapes, and 6812 yards of canvas hose. The cost
of the whole apparatus is about £3324. The brigade consists of the Superintendent, a chief and a second engineer, 2 assistant-
engineers, 13 branchmen, 11 permanently employed firemen, and 8 probationary firemen—in all 37—at a yearly cost for pay of £2229.
From the chief station and that of Pollard Street all the other stations are supplied with relays of firemen every twelve hours.
Communication between all the stations and the chief office and station is by means of telegraphs on Wheatstone's system—an
alphabet worked by keys like a piano—there being always two men in attendance at the chief station able to read and work the
instrument. Close to the telegraph is a speaking-pipe communicating with the Superintendent's bedroom, so that he can be in
instant communication with the men, both day and night. Bells indicate the various out-stations, and a telegraph indicates the
station and the precise spot where the fire is, and whether it is serious or slight, whether in mill or warehouse property, or in a
dwelling or other smaller building. If “serious” the whole force at the various stations is telegraphed for, and proceed to the fire;
if only slight, 'only a detachment goes. On the Superintendent deciding what force should be despatched, bells are rung to the
quarters of the firemen, who immediately turn out, and leave the yard on an average between two and three minutes after receiving
notice. The men out on duty attend a fire with the nearest engine, etc. On the men arriving at a fire, in consequence of the
plentiful supply of water under high pressure all over the city, all that is needed is to attach the proper hose to the hydrants or stand-
pipes in the streets, which are found so effective that engines are now very seldom used,—probably not oftener than twice or thrice
a-year—the stand-pipes throwing a stream of water of 2% inches diameter over the loftiest building. Mr. Tozer was appointed
superintendent in January 1862, and from his tables we learn that in the eight years, 1859-1866 inclusive, the average yearly
number of fires was about 238. In 1866 the number was unusually large (293), and one fire at a carrier's warehouse destroyed
property to the amount of £120,000. Taking the hours of 6 A.M. and P.M., the number of fires in the day in 1866 was 107, of
fires in the night 186.
Besides the Manchester Fire-Brigade, there is another in Salford, and a third in Pendleton. There is
also in Broughton a volunteer fire-brigade of twelve men, formed in 1862, under the command of Captain
Drew, which has an engine, hose-cart, and all necessary apparatus in a shed adjoining the Broughton Town
Hall, at the cost of the township, and under the management of the Town Hall Committee. As all these
three townships are within the borough of Salford, it is desirable that the three brigades should be amalgam-
ated, under one head, as a portion of the police force of the borough, and steps are in progress for this
purpose (1867).
Gas was introduced into this locality by Messrs. Philips and Lee, who applied it to the lighting of their
factory in Chapel Street, Salford (now the Manchester Bonding Warehouses) in 1805. A private company
was originated some years afterwards, which disposed of its property and interest to the Manchester Police
Commissioners in 1824, and they passed to the city-council in 1843. The original gasworks were erected
#umbrel ºf $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arish. 389
in Water Street (and fronting Lower King Street) in 1817; afterwards works were erected in other parts of the
town; but now the works are concentrated in two stations, covering large areas, in Rochdale Road and at Gay-
thorn. Each has a storage in gas-holders for about 2,250,000 cubic feet of gas. By a consumption of 3000 tons of
coal weekly, these works produce 4,200,000 cubic feet of gas daily. The consumption of gas increases steadily.
From about 240 million cubic feet in 1844-5, it reached 1,159,868,000 cubic feet in 1865-6, being an
increase of 8:37 per cent over the year 1864-5. The average illuminating power of the gas during the year
was equal to 21-6 sperm candles, consuming at the rate of 120 grains per hour; the consumption of the gas
having been reduced to a constant standard of five cubic feet per hour. This, as compared with other large
towns, is a very high degree of illuminating power; in other words, the gas of Manchester is brighter than
that of most large towns. The gross profit on the year's working was £52,553, of which were paid as interest
on loans, etc., £13,252, transferred to capital account towards liquidation of the mortgage debt, $19,784;
having a surplus of £19,516 payable to the improvement department for street and other public improvements.
The Salford Gasworks in Clowes Street, were erected by Messrs. Appleby, Clay, and Fisher; and from these
works Salford was supplied until December 1831, when the works were purchased for £6000 by the Police
Commissioners, and they have since been worked by the corporation for public benefit. There are now two
large gasworks or stations for Salford—one in Lamb Lane, Chapel Street, erected in 1835, and the other on
the Regent Road. The profits are appropriated to the improvement of the town, the extension of the works,
and the liquidation of the debt.
MARKETS. —The manufacturing and commercial market of Manchester is held in the Exchange on
Tuesday and Thursday; the former being the principal day for the country manufacturers attending the
market. There were formerly various small provision-markets in different parts of Manchester, which have
now disappeared. During the sway of a lord of the manor, these markets (which were principally for the sale
of fish and flesh) were necessary, as it was only within markets that such things could then be legally sold.
They were situated in Pollard Street, Butler Street, and Bradford Street, Ancoats; and in Miller Street,
Brown Street, Bridge Street, and Alport. Soon after the purchase of the manorial rights in 1846 by the
corporation, these markets became untenanted and useless, in consequence of the Markets Act, then obtained,
empowering the authorities to grant licenses to butchers and fishmongers to sell these commodities in shops
anywhere, within the borough ; and so extensively are such licenses in demand, that nearly £1500 a-year
accrues to the market revenues from this source alone. One of the most ancient markets in Manchester is
that which was called “The Old Apple Market,” and afterwards the Corn Market, in and near Fennel Street.
Nothing is now sold there, however, except a little seed-corn in spring, and this trade on that spot is dwindling
yearly. Ere long nothing will be left to show that it was once a market except the old bell which used to
proclaim its hours of opening and closing, which now swings by way of sign on the front of the Dog and
Partridge tavern, Fennel Street, as it did on the old hostelry that once held that site. The Corn Market is
now held in a spacious hall, named “the Corn Exchange” in Hanging Ditch,--a handsome Doric edifice of
stone, which cost £3250, and was opened in January 1837. Its area is nearly 600 square yards, and it is
fitted up with locked desks or stands for samples of grain, etc. The market is held on Tuesday. There is
another very old market-place, about half-way up Shudehill in front of the old Mosley Arms; it bore the
name of “Shudehill Market,” and properly so; for the name is usually but erroneously applied to the great
Smithfield Market, which is not in Shudehill, but between that street and Swan Street. This old market in
Shudehill was formerly used for the sale of fruit, and had thence the name of “the Orange Market.” It is
now used on Tuesday and Saturday for the sale of live poultry, of which on Saturday there is always a large
and good show ; and on the other days of the week for toys, trinkets, and miscellaneous articles.
The “Central Markets” in Smithy Door and Victoria Street, include a fruit and vegetable market of
roofed stalls, in Smithy Door; and the new and handsome stone edifice, extending from the Market-place to
Victoria Street, with entrances from both streets, used as the retail fish-market. The wholesale fish-market
occupies a large enclosure, with sheds, offices, etc., in Great Ducie Street, Strangeways, adjoining the Victoria
Railway Station, where most of the supplies of fish for the Manchester market are delivered. The offices
and sheds, erected in 1867 at a cost of £689, are let at remunerating rentals. But the great market of
Manchester, both wholesale and retail, which is open daily, and which, besides fruit and vegetables, includes
all sorts of fresh and cured flesh and fish, poultry, all kinds of clothing and general wares, is the Smithfield
Market, near the junction of Shudehill and Swan Street. It has an immense area, entirely covered by an
elegant roof of iron and glass, in four bays, in all 422 by 244 feet, making the total covered space 11,441
square yards; and it is believed to be the largest roofed space in England. A new approach to this market
is (1867) in progress of formation; a new street, commencing at the corner of High Street and Turner
Street, and obliquely crossing Back Turner Street, Back Thomas's Street, and Thomas's Street, to James
Street, adjoining the market. There is a covered market for butchers' meat, etc., in London Road. The
cattle-market for Manchester and Salford is held on Tuesdays in a spacious area in Cross Lane, Salford, with
convenient access to the adjacent railway, for landing and despatching cattle, sheep, etc. The pork and
carcase market behind the late shambles and butchers' market, at the corner of Bridge Street, Deansgate,
390 (ſiſt #igtúrg of £antaghirt.
has also, since the “cattle-plague,” become a market for the sale of “dead meat.” The hay and straw
market is held in Liverpºol Road, Deansgate, on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The hide and skin
market is held in Charles Street, Lower Byrom Street, on Thursday and Friday. The pig-market is also
held on the same site.
FAIRS.—The ancient fairs in Manchester have been already noticed. The Easter fair (called “Knott
Mill” fair, from being held in that place) is still held in Camp Field, and the southerly end of Deansgate, in
Easter week; but it is now a mere assemblage of itinerant shows, booths, and stalls for fruit and cakes.
The “Acres Fair” is held in the same locality on the 1st of October. The sale of horned cattle at this fair,
which was suspended during the cattle-plague, for three years, was resumed in 1867, under the licence of the
privy council. The market for the sale of milch-cows, near Oak Street, which had been suspended for that
period for the same cause, was also resumed on the first Saturday in October 1867, by permission of the
cattle-plague commissioners. There were till very lately two ancient fairs held in Salford, at the end of
Chapel Street, near Greengate; one, the “Whitsuntide Fair,” during the whole week of the movable feast;
the other, on the 17th November, was usually called “Dirt Fair,” from the filthy state of the streets, owing
to Wet Weather and a great assemblage of cattle, pigs, etc. But the shopkeepers of the neighbourhood
complained of the nuisance in these fairs being held in the principal business thoroughfare of the borough,
and these fairs are now entirely abolished as regards Salford. Fairs are now held in their stead, on the
same dates, in Camp Field, Manchester, and their old names of “Whitsuntide Fair” and “Dirt Fair” are
still applied to them. -
IMPROVEMENTS.—For many years past the improvements in the streets of the city have been mainly
made out of the gas profits. By their last improvement act (30 Vic, cap. 36, passed 31st May 1867) the
Manchester corporation take powers to make a new street in Ardwick, to acquire additional lands (as on
plans and books of reference) for general improvement purposes, within three years; all ground laid into
new streets to be public highways. Eight weeks' notice to be given before the corporation take, in any
parish, fifteen or more dwellings of the labouring classes, and then only under the certificate of a justice. If
the city-surveyor, or other duly-qualified surveyor, certify in writing that there is imminent danger from any
building, the corporation shall and may, without any presentment or notice, cause the same to be taken down
'Wholly or in part, or to be repaired or secured. As to whitewashing, cleansing, and purifying houses, the
term “occupier” in the Police Act of 1844 is to be held in certain specified cases to include the owner; and
“house or dwelling” to include any privies, outbuildings, etc. Clause 41 gives power to the corporation, on
a certificate by an inspector of nuisances, or two medical practitioners, that any building, or part of one, is
unfit for human habitation, by an order affixed on such building, to declare it unfit for human habitation,
and that it shall not, after a specified date, be inhabited, under a penalty not exceeding £5, or for a continu-
ing offence not more than 40s, for every day. If the corporation shall be satisfied that such house has been
rendered fit for human habitation, they may revoke their order. Clause 42 gives power to order the making
of ashpits where houses are without, and of enlarging them where they are not of a construction and size
approved by the corporation. Penalty for default not exceeding £5, and not exceeding 40s, for every week
of such default continuing. After notice the corporation have power to make or alter in the terms of the
order, the costs thereof to be recoverable of the owner by warrant of distress or action. 43 vests the
parochial cemetery on the north side of the Apple-market (between the Cathedral Hotel and the yard of
Chetham's Hospital) in the corporation as the burial-board of the city. 44 gives the corporation power to
make bye-laws for regulating cemeteries, public parks, or places of recreation under their control within or
beyond the city. There are various minor enactments regulating and modifying those named, for which the
reader is referred to the act, which numbers 52 clauses.
The river Medlock improvement affects the river from the Pinmill weir at Ardwick, to Birley's weir in
Chorlton-on-Medlock, thoughout which limits the width of the river will be equalised to 30 feet or thereabouts,
and the inclination of the bed will be a uniform fall of 84 feet in a mile from Pinmill weir down to West-
head's Weir, and of 3 feet in a mile thence to Birley's weir. The cost of this improvement is estimated at a
maximum of £30,000, two-thirds to be paid by owners of property, and one-third out of the borough-
fund. It is expected that this improvement, when completed, will prevent the recurrence of disastrous floods
in the Medlock. Amongst the new bye-laws adopted by the council on 6th March 1867 were the following
as to the level, width, and construction of new streets:–Every new street to be at least 30 feet wide; if the
buildings to be erected therein exceed two storeys, exclusive of basement, the street to be at least 36 feet
Wide ; if the buildings exceed three storeys, the street to be at least 48 feet wide. Where the backs of houses
in two parallel streets approach, there shall be a passage of 5 feet at least between the yards of such houses,
open and uncovered, and communicating at each end with a street; and the space between backs and backs of the
houses in parallel streets shall be at least 8 yards in width, and no building exceeding 10 feet 6 inches in
height shall be erected on any part of such space. Every new dwelling-house to have at the back for its
sole use an open yard, with clear area of at least 70 square feet. The level of the ground-floor of every
dwelling-house (not a shop or place of business) to be at least 6 inches above the level of the edgeway of the
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlatriješter 33arigly, 391
footway, street, or court next it. Every dwelling or sleeping room (not in the attic or roof) to be in every
part at least 9 feet high from floor to ceiling; in the attic or roof 73 feet in height for one-third of its
superficial area. In the former class of rooms the aggregate window-area to be not less than 10 square feet,
the upper half of window to open full width ; in the latter area not less than 6 Square feet, upper half to
open full width, or a skylight of at least 6 feet area, one-third to open.
SEWERS.—The extent of sewerage constructed in the city from 1830 to June 24, 1866, was:—Main
sewers, 95 miles 476 yards; cross sewers and eyes, 147 miles 1018 yards. Total area of streets paved and
sewered from 1830 to 1866, 1,009,673 yards, at a cost of £326,397. In the new bye-laws of 1867 there are
various regulations as to the drainage of buildings by gutters, pipes, and drains, connected with the nearest
SéWéI’. -
HACKNEY COACHES, ETC.—In the year ended June 1866, the total number of carriages plying for hire
from the several stands within the city (44) was 337—viz, 241 coaches, one brougham cab, and 95 hansom
cabs. In 1851-2 the total number was 178. Five hundred and eighteen drivers were licensed. Seven
hundred and fifty-eight articles found by the drivers in their cabs were taken by them to the town-hall, and
of these 397 were restored to their owners, and £24 were advanced to the drivers for delivering up the
articles. There were in the township of Manchester 22 stands, in Chorlton-on-Medlock 6, Ardwick 3,
Cheetham 6, and Hulme 7. There were 74 licensed proprietors, two only having as many as 18 carriages
each. Omnibuses of the new construction, holding 17 to 21 inside, and a still larger number on the roofs,
and drawn by three or four horses, run frequently (on some lines of road every ten minutes), to about forty
places in the suburbs, within two or three miles of Market Street, or to country villages within a radius of
five to eight miles of the centre of Manchester."
The principal bridges in Manchester have all been built within the nineteenth century. The old Salford
bridge over the Irwell was erected in 1365; it was of three Gothic arches, and had a chapel upon it, after-
wards converted into a dungeon. Till 1760 it was the only bridge connecting the township of Manchester
with that of Salford. In its place was erected, in 1839, the Victoria Bridge, of one elliptical arch, having
100 feet span, with a rise of .22 feet, the roadway being 40 feet in width. It cost £20,800. To facilitate
access to their theatre in Salford, a company of London actors threw a wooden bridge over the Irwell at
Blackfriars Street, between St. Mary's Gate, Manchester, and Blackfriars Street, Salford. In its place was
erected a proprietary toll-bridge in 1820, costing £9000. A few years ago the toll was abolished, and the
bridge made free. The old bridge over the Irwell, near the New Bailey Prison, erected in 1785, and once a
toll-bridge, gave way in 1864 to the present Albert Bridge, a spacious roadway of one arch, but scarcely
adequate to the heavy omnibus and coal-cart traffic passing over it. The Regent Road Bridge over the
Irwell, from Hulme to Salford, was a private proprietary and toll-bridge, built in 1808, but made free in
1848. Broughton Bridge, connecting Broughton Road, Salford, with the lower part of Broughton, was built
by a private proprietor in 1806, and all but his tenants still pay toll. The Wellington Bridge, connecting
Strangeways with Greengate, Salford, was an iron structure, built in 1817 by private subscription, and also
taking toll from all but the tenants of Lord Ducie. Being found unsafe, it was taken down in 1866, and a
new one erected in its place is expected to be finished in 1867. The Springfield Lane Bridge, connecting
Strangeways, etc., with Springfield Lane, Salford, is a plain structure, erected in 1850, and free. The
Broughton Chain or Suspension Bridge, connecting Lower Broughton with Pendleton and Salford, is a light
and neat structure, built by the proprietor of the adjacent land in 1826, and a toll is levied on all passengers.
In 1831, while a body of soldiers was passing over it, with measured march, it fell with a crash, and is still
considered scarcely safe for large bodies of persons crowding over it to the adjacent race-course, unless it is
on such occasions temporarily strengthened by props or pillars. The Hunt's Bank Bridge over the Irk was
built in 1826, and connects Strangeways and the New Bury Road with Hunt's Bank, near the cathedral.
Still nearer to that edifice stands the latest-finished bridge in Manchester over the Irwell—the Hunt's Bank
Bridge, from the road to the junction of Chapel Street and Greengate, Salford. It was built in 1864, of
one skew iron arch, which is said to be too low to give free vent to the great body of water that comes down
the river in heavy floods. There are many minor bridges over the Irwell, Irk, and Medlock, and viaducts
over small valleys and hollow places.
There are four principal railway stations in Manchester:—The Victoria Station, Hunt's Bank, for the
western and northern lines of the London and North-Western Company, and (now, at a separate part of the
station) the lines of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Company. The London Road Station, beyond Piccadilly,
for the southern lines of the London and North-Western Company, and for the Manchester, Sheffield, and
Lincolnshire lines. The Oaford Road Station, for the Manchester South Junction and Altringham Railway, and
for the lines joining it, to Birkenhead and Chester. The New Bailey Street or Salford Station, for the East
Lancashire Railway.
The Telegraph companies and stations in Manchester are:—Bonelli's Electric Telegraph Company
(Limited), Wellington Chambers, 2A Victoria Street, and 22 St. Ann's Square; the British and Irish
* For a notice of the omnibuses, see p. 355, Supra.
392 (The ºigturn of £antagijire.
Magnetic, 19 Bond Street, etc.; the Economic Telegraph Company, Ford's Chambers, Queen Street; the
Electric and International, central office, 4 York Street; the Globe Company, 2 St. Ann's Churchyard; the
United Kingdom Electric, Hartford Chambers, 5 St. Ann's Square, etc.; and the Universal Private, 52 Brown
Street.
The statue-monuments erected in open places in Manchester and Salford include five, all of bronze, on
the esplanade in front of the Manchester Royal Infirmary; at the ends, the Wellington monument and the
Peel statue ; in the centre, Queen Victoria; and smaller ones are placed on pedestals in the parapet-wall of
the Infirmary to Dr. Dalton and James Watt. The Albert Memorial in Albert Square consists of a marble
statue of the late Prince-Consort by Noble, within an ornate Gothic shrine by Mr. Thomas Worthington,
architect of Manchester, which cost £6250, without the statue ; that being a gift to the town by the late Mr.
Thomas Goadsby in his mayoralty. A bronze statue of Cobden, by Marshall Wood, the result of a public
subscription, is placed in the centre of St. Ann's Square. In Peel Park, Salford, are marble statues of the
Queen and her consort Prince Albert, and of Cobden ; and bronze statues of Sir Robert Peel and Joseph
Brotherton, M.P. All five are works of Matthew Noble, the sculptor. Within buildings may be named the
marble monument-statue to Humphrey Chetham, by Theed; and the marble statue of the late Mr. Thomas
Fleming, both at the east end of the cathedral choir; the fine marble statue of Dalton (seated) by Chantrey,
in the vestibule of the Manchester Royal Institution, Mosley Street; and the marble statue of the late Mr. John
Frederick Foster, chairman of the quarter-Sessions for the Salford Hundred, in the great central hall of
the Assize Courts. *
The first Manchester Exchange on the present site, Market Street and Exchange Street, was built in
1806; it was repeatedly enlarged, and especially in 1856; it has or had two fronts, that to Manchester
semicircular; its entrance-door was closed in 1856, when a new Doric portico was erected at the other end
of the building next St. Ann's Square and Bank Street. It is octostyle, with fluted columns 28 feet high
and 4 feet diameter; this façade being 72 feet long. Its exchange-room, 185 feet by 82, is divided into a
centre and two side aisles by two ranges of Ionic columns; and these columns being numbered enables those
regularly attending 'Change readily to find other frequenters near their habitual place. The newsroom is in
a gallery at the Market Street end of the exchange-room. Even this large space has proved inadequate to
the rapidly-growing numbers and requirements of the merchants and manufacturers of Manchester and the
surrounding district ; and in 1866 an act of parliament was obtained to enable the company of proprietors to
erect a new exchange, partly on the site of the present one, but taking the present length for the width of
the future building. The act provides for the closing of Ducie Street and Crow Alley; and under it all the
property not already belonging to the Exchange proprietors was secured, from Market Street to Bank Street,
and from Exchange Street to Cross Street. Of many competing designs for the new edifice, the highest prize
was given to that of Messrs. Mills and Murgatroyd of Manchester, the architects of the Exchange enlarge-
ment in 1856. The design is Italian, the principal entrance being by a flight of steps and portico fronting
Cross Street, having two towers at the angles—the one to have a clock, the other a wind-dial. The other
fronts will be to Market Street and Bank Street. The great exchange-hall will be of vast size, lighted on
all sides with windows to the four surrounding streets; and this room is to be covered by a ceiling having a
clear area (without supports) of 120 feet in width. The demolitions of buildings on the site were nearly
completed in September 1867; the St. Ann's Square portico of the present building has been removed, and
the whole of the lofty pile called Newall's Buildings, with the Exchange Arcade, and all the buildings
between Ducie Street and Brown Street, so that the new erection may be commenced early in the spring of
1868. The institution received some years ago, from her Majesty the Queen, the title of “The Manchester
Royal Exchange.”
The Banks in Manchester are the Branch Bank of England, King Street (corner of Pall Mall, No. 58),
a Doric edifice erected in 1847; the Adelphi Bank (limited), 30 Brown Street; Alliance Bank (limited), 73
and 75 King Street; Consolidated Bank (limited), 46 Pall Mall; Cunliffes, Brooks, and Co., 92 King Street;
Heywood Brothers and Co., St. Ann Street ; Lomas and Co., 10 Market Street; Manchester and County
Bank (limited), 2 York Street; Manchester and Liverpool District Banking Co., 29 Spring Gardens, and its
branch 37 King Street; Manchester and Salford Bank, Mosley Street, corner of York Street, one of the
finest buildings in Manchester, in the Italian style—Salford Branch, corner of Chapel Street and Bolton
Street—Hulme Branch, Stretford Road; National Provincial Bank of England, 94 Mosley Street; Robert-
son, Fraser, and Co., 2 and 4 High Street; Robinson, Coryton, and Co., 31 Smithy Door; Sewell and
Nephew, 12 Norfolk Street; John Stuart and Co. (American), Corporation Street; Union Bank of Man-
chester, 9 York Street; and Manchester and Salford Savings' Bank (and Government Annuity Society), 84
King Street and 25 Pall Mall. - - - -
The new Free Trade Hall, Peter Street, on the site of the temporary pavilion and of the second hall,
was built in 1856, costing £40,000. It is Lombardo-Venetian in architecture, from a design of Mr. E.
Walters of Manchester; its stone façade is 159 feet in length and 75 feet in height. The great hall, used for
meetings, Mr. Hallé's concerts, etc., is 134 feet long by 78 wide, and 52 feet high, with a light and elegant
#umbrell of Šalforn—ſtantjester parish. 393
gallery, Orchestra, platform, organ, etc., and it is said to be capable of accommodating about 5000 persons.
There is also an assembly-room, and over it a Supper-room, each capable of holding about 650 persons;
with other rooms suitable for ante-rooms, exhibitions, etc.
Earliest among the institutions in Manchester for the promotion of literature, Science, and the fine arts,
is the LITERARY AND PHILOSOPHICAL SOCIETY of Manchester, whose house (including a chemical laboratory, a
good library, and a meeting-room for the members) is in George Street. No provincial society of the same
nature has acquired a fame so extensive, solid, and well-deserved, as this Society. The Memoirs of its Transac-
tions are published in 21 volumes, and have been translated into French and German; and amongst the
contributors to these treasures of knowledge, are the names of Richard Watson, D.D., bishop of Llandaff;
Thomas Percival, M.D., F.L.S.; Charles White, F.R.S.; Thomas Barnes, D.D.; Thomas Henry, F.R.S.; John
Ferrier, M.D.; Rev. George Walker, F.R.S.; Rev. Gilbert Wakefield, B.A.; James Currie, M.D.; John Gough;
John Dalton, D.C.L., LL.D., F.R.S., etc., long its president; Eaton Hodgkinson, F.R.S.; and many more recent
names distinguished in Science.
Amongst other scientific and art societies and institutions, may be named—The Manchester School of
Art, and the Academy of Fine Arts, both in the Royal Institution; the Statistical Society; the Scientific
Students' Association; the Literary Society, Cross Street Chapel Room ; the Botanical and Horticultural
Society, whose fine gardens are at Old Trafford; the Natural History Society, and the Geological Society,
both whose museums are in the same building in Peter Street ; the Field Naturalists' Society; the Architec-
tural Society; and the Manchester Institution of Engineers.
The ATHENAEUM, in Bond Street and George Street, near the Royal Institution, was established for
affording middle-class young men a resort for reading the newspapers, with the advantages of a library,
classes, and occasional lectures. The building was erected from a design of the late Sir Charles Barry, in
the Italian style. It contains a reading and news room, a library of 14,000 to 15,000 volumes, and a lecture-
hall on the uppermost floor. Two rooms on the first floor are (temporarily) the Manchester Courts of Bankruptcy.
In its class-rooms are studied various modern languages; and more or less closely connected with the
institution are—a gymnastic club, a chess-club, a dramatic reading Society, an essay and discussion society,
etc. In the basement is also a restaurant.
The MANCHESTER MECHANICS' INSTITUTION was established in 1825; in 1827 its new building in
Cooper Street was opened; but this, though regarded at the time as sufficiently spacious, was outgrown by
the demands of the members; and in 1857 the present home of the institution, a large building in David
Street, Portland Street, was opened with an exhibition of paintings, etc. (which resulted in a profit to the
institution of more than £4000). It has a spacious lecture-hall, with gallery, a library of 17,000 volumes,
and in various departments of education has day and evening classes for both sexes.—There are other
mechanics' institutions and kindred establishments in Salford (Working Men's College and St. Matthias'
Working Men's Club), Cheetham Hill, Crumpsall, Chorlton-on-Medlock, Droylsden, Failsworth, Gorton Brook,
Hightown, Hulme (two working-men's institutes), Levenshulme, Miles Platting, Pendleton, Rusholme, etc.
The MANCHESTER ROYAL INSTITUTION originated in a meeting in October 1823, its objects being to
diffuse a taste for the fine arts, by establishing a collection of the best models that can be obtained in
painting and sculpture, by exhibiting the works of meritorious artists, and to encourage literary and scientific
pursuits, by facilitating the delivery of popular courses of lectures. A considerable sum was subscribed, and
the present building of the institution was erected in Mosley Street in the years 1825-30, having cost
considerably more than had been anticipated. This noble stone edifice, of the Doric order, was erected from
designs of the late Sir Charles Barry, at a cost, including land, of more than £30,000. Its façade in Mosley
Street is 170 feet in length, its depth 83% feet. It contains a handsome entrance-hall, lecture-theatre (holding
about 800 persons), various rooms on the lower floor, some occupied by the Manchester School of Art, and
on the upper floor suites of corridors and rooms for the reception of pictures, drawings, statuary, sculpture,
and other works of art for exhibition, called the North and South Galleries. The walls of the entrance-hall
are decorated with a set of casts from the Elgin Marbles, presented by George TV. On a pedestal in this
hall is placed the fine marble full-length (seated) statue of the late Dr. Dalton, by Chantrey. Connected
with this institution is a yearly exhibition of pictures and other works of art. The late Benjamin Arthur
Heywood, esq., gave the handsome donation of £500, the interest on which is annually distributed to the
successful competitor in painting, etc., for “The Heywood Prize.” The institution possesses a few pictures,
statues, etc., as the nucleus of a permanent gallery.
The Manchester Society for the promotion of NATURAL HISTORY was established in June 1821 in King
Street, but the premises being too small, its new Museum in Peter Street was erected in 1835. It consists of
a centre and wings—the central hall having stairs and corridors leading to the two upper floors. Each of the
three rooms in the east wing is 92 by 21 feet ; those in the west wing, 29 by 21 feet ; and on the first floor
of this wing is the council and curator's room. Besides its large collections of animals, birds, fishes, reptiles,
etc., it is rich in shells, corallines, etc., and in minerals and fossils. The Manchester Geological Society has
1 First Series, 5 vols., Second Series, 15 vols., and Third Series, 1 vol. (1859-1861). The Society has also published five volumes of
its Proceedings (1857-1860).
3 E
394 Øſte §istorg of 3Lancashire,
also deposited in this museum its extensive and valuable collections, on the condition that they shall always
be open to the public free of charge. There is in the museum a small but interesting collection of antiques—
Roman inscribed stones, lamps, and other pottery, the Runic cross found at Lancaster, an Egyptian mummy
in its coffin-like cases, etc. The Society has presented the whole of its collections to Owens College,
when it shall have space to receive them (1867). -
The MEMORIAL HALL, Albert Square, originated at a meeting held in Cross Street Chapel Room in March
1862, at which it was agreed that, to perpetuate the memory of the 2000 ejected ministers of 1662, a hall
should be erected in Manchester, settled upon perfectly open trusts, for religious, philanthropic, and educational
purposes. A subscription was commenced by Mr. Alderman Mackie giving £1000. Mr. James M'Connel would
give £500 on condition that three others did the same ; four gentlemen gave £200 each, eighteen £100 each,
seven £50 each ; and many gave smaller sums. It was ultimately agreed to erect the hall at the South-west
corner of Albert Square, adjoining South Street, on a site secured, and the plans of Mr. Thomas Worthington,
architect, Manchester, were adopted. The building was formally opened on the 18th January 1866, by an
assemblage of 750 ladies and gentlemen, under the presidency of the Rev. William Gaskell, M.A., senior
minister of Cross Street Chapel, and chairman of the Memorial Hall Committee. The architectural character
of the edifice is in the mediaeval pointed style prevailing in the cities of Northern Italy; and the building is
of ornamental bricks and tiles, with stone dressings. The frontage to Albert Square is 29 feet, to South Street
83 feet. The building is 60 feet in height, and includes basement, ground-floor, first and second storeys.
The upper storeys are entered by a large central arched and deeply-recessed doorway, above which is the
inscription “Memorial Hall, erected in Commemoration of the year 1662.” The most striking feature of the
façade in the square is the upper windows, which are filled with Venetian tracery, in style resembling those
of the ducal palace at Venice. A richly carved and moulded cornice surmounts the edifice. From the main
entrance a spacious staircase gives access to the two principal floors of the building. On the first are the
apartments for the Unitarian Home Missionary Board, including a lecture-hall 26 feet square, a professor's
room 16 by 14 feet, a library 31 by 20 feet, rooms for the keeper, and several minor and ante-rooms. On
the upper floor is a large public hall 64 by 34 feet, with large galleries in its angular portions. The total
cost of the land and building is stated to be about £10,000. At the formal opening, after tea, the Rev.
Wm. Gaskell presided and delivered an address, stating the objects for which the hall had been erected.
Later in the evening a meeting of the Unitarian Home Missionary Board was held—Wm. Rathbone jun., esq.,
of Liverpool, its president, in the chair. -
In connection with literature and science, the PUBLIC PRESS of Manchester claims a place in its history.
We have already seen that some of the pamphlets of the “Martin Marprelate” series were printed in Newton
Lane, Manchester, as early as 1580. For a century and a half afterwards the history of the public press of
Manchester is a blank. In the first week of 1719 a newspaper entitled the Manchester Weekly Journal was
begun by Roger Adams, at the lower end of Smithy Door, printed without a stamp and sold for one penny."
This paper was continued for some years, certainly later than 1725, sometime after which it was discontinued
on Mr. Adams removing to Chester. On the 22d December 1730, Mr. H. Whitworth commenced a
newspaper called Whitworth's Manchester Gazette, the name of which was changed in 1737 to the Manchester
Magazine, price three-halfpence. [Its number of Tuesday, December 24, 1745, gives a circumstantial account
of the movements of the rebel army under the young Chevalier Prince Charles.] His son, Mr. Robert
Whitworth, continued the paper till March 25, 1760, which shows a further change of title to Whitworth's
Manchester Advertiser and Weekly Magazine. This was its last number, and Mr. Whitworth died October 27,
1772. r
In 1736 a paper entitled the Manchester Journal was printed by A. S. [] Schofield or Stuart], but no
particulars are known respecting it. In July 1738 the first number appeared of the Lancashire Journal, a
weekly Monday’s paper, published by Mr. John Berry “at the Dial, near the Cross.” No. 61 of it is extant,
but when it became extinct is not known. In January 1752 appeared the first number of Orion Adams's
Weekly Journal, which had only a short existence. Orion was the son of the Roger Adams above named.
On Tuesday March 3, 1752, appeared the first number of Harrop's Manchester Mercury, a weekly Tuesday's
paper, published by Joseph Harrop. The title was shortly afterwards altered to Harrop's Manchester Mercury
and General Advertiser. After his death, in January 1804, the paper was continued by his son, who, on
Saturday, June 30, 1804, commenced the British Volunteer, price 6d. The Mercury, after existing 79 years,
expired December 28, 1830. The Volunteer contained a series of wood engravings of “ancient edifices in
Manchester,” which were also published separately.” On Saturday, March 2, 1754, Messrs. Schofield and
Turnbull established the Manchester Journal, which was discontinued in 1756. The first number of the
Manchester Chronicle, a Tuesday's paper, price 2d., was published by Mr. Thomas Anderton in June 1762, but
afterwards discontinued. Prescott's Manchester Journal was commenced Saturday, March 23, 1771, but did
not continue long; and for a time Harrop's Mercury was the sole Manchester newspaper, till Mr. Charles
Wheeler commenced Wheeler's Manchester Chronicle on Saturday, June 23, 1781. It was continued by his
* The London papers began to be stamped in 1713, the price of the stamp being a halfpenny.
* Mr. Thomas Baker, solicitor, Manchester, has eleven of these prints.
#umbren of $alfort—ſºlamriješter 33arigi). 395
son, Mr. John Wheeler, who survived the paper, which ceased with the year 1838. The Manchester Herald
was commenced on Saturday, March 21, 1792, by Mr. M. Faulkner, afterwards Faulkner and Birch, and was
discontinued on the 23d March 1793, in consequence of the printing-office and its contents being destroyed
by a riotous mob. The Manchester Gazette was first published by Messrs. Thomas Bowden and William
Cowdroy in March 1795; it was afterwards published by Mr. Cowdroy alone, and subsequently by Mr.
Archibald Prentice. Since the commencement of the 19th century the newspaper speculations in Manchester
have been very numerous ; but it would occupy too much space even to name all that had birth and death
within the last sixty years. The repeal in succession of the duties on advertisements, on newspaper-stamps,
and on paper, has effected great changes in the newspaper press all over the kingdom. The newspapers
published in Manchester in 1867 are the Guardian, daily; the Examiner and Times, daily; the Courier, daily,–
all price Id. ; the Weekly Times, the City Weekly News, the Salford News, weekly; and the Alliance (total
abstinence organ), weekly. Several minor periodicals have been published here, and many valuable works
have been issued from the Manchester press.' -
Among the principal old LIBRARIES of Manchester are Chetham's Library (already noticed); the Royal
Eachange Library, established by subscription in August 1792, having nearly 20,000 volumes; and the
Portico Library, established January 1806, having about 20,000 volumes. This last is in an Ionic edifice, from
a design by Mr. Harrison of Chester, on the east side of Mosley Street, to which it presents a bold portico
façade of 49 feet and 45 feet high, its depth being 206 feet. It consists of a reading-room on the ground-
floor 66 by 42 feet, with a gallery around containing the books, an upper room, etc. It cost £7000. The
oldest subscription-library, established in 1765, ceased to exist in 1867, all its books being sold by auction.
The Law Library, in Norfolk Street, consists entirely of professional books (about 4000 volumes), and is
Supported by professional gentlemen. The Foreign Library, St. Ann Street, originated in 1830, has about
8000 volumes in various languages. Of the more modern libraries the chief is the Manchester Free Library,
which owes its existence to the late Sir John Potter's personal efforts in obtaining large and liberal private
subscriptions, and to the valuable aid of Dr. John Watts, by whose medium the “Hall of Science” in Camp
Field (built in 1839) was purchased for the Free Library—opened with a public meeting, etc., on the 9th
June 1852. It consists chiefly of two large rooms, the lower one being the Lending library, and the news and
general reading-room ; the upper room containing the Reference library (the books of which are not allowed
to circulate), with tables for the readers of books in this class. A large attic-room holds a vast number of
volumes of newspapers, the blue-books of parliament, etc.” Branch lending libraries, in connection with the
Central Free Library, have been established in Rochdale Road, Ancoats, Hulme, and Rusholme Road. In
1864 a catalogue of the books in the Central Library, in the reference department only, compiled by Mr. A.
Crestadoro, Ph.D., principal librarian, was published in a thick octavo volume (pp. 975), which shows that
at that time the separate works (not volumes), in that department alone, numbered 26,534. According to the
last yearly report of the Library Committee to the Manchester City Council, in October 1866, there were
38,426 volumes in the reference library, and 39,318 in the several lending libraries. Aggregate number of
volumes in the Free Libraries of Manchester 77,744. In the Central Library, Camp Field, and in the four
Branch Libraries, the numbers of books for lending were thus distributed—Camp Field, 13,205; Hulme,
8456; Ancoats, 5214; Rochdale Road, 7595; Chorlton and Ardwick (opened 8th October 1866), 4868.
The 77,744 volumes are thus classed—I. II. Theology, philosophy, 3496 volumes; III. History, biography,
etc., 23,431; IV. Politics and commerce, 7637; W. Sciences and arts, 6853; VI. Literature and polygraphy,
29,648; patent specifications, 3664; books not then classed, 2920 ; and books for the blind, 115. In the
year ended 5th September 1866 the total issues of volumes in the Reference Library were 80,852, or 285
daily average; of patent specifications, 52,214, or 180 daily. In the Lending Libraries the issues of volumes
in Camp Field were 80,209, or 277 daily; at the Hulme Branch, 91,075, or 320 daily; Ancoats, 45,508, or
151 daily; Rochdale Road, 69,324, or 230 daily. The annual issues in the Reference Library had increased
from 61,080 in 1852-3 to 80-852 in 1865-6; the total aggregate of these issues in fourteen years being
1,185,842; and the number of references to specifications of patents in the ten years 1856-7—1865-6 was
318,223. The Salford Royal Borough Free Library (with the Museum), was opened in the enlarged building
in Peel Park, Salford, on the 9th January 1850. Since then it has been further enlarged by the addition of
a long and spacious reading and news room, overlooking the Park. Like the Manchester Free Library, it is
divided into two departments—the Reference Library and the Lending Library. In November 1866 the
number of volumes in the Reference department was 20,205, and in the Lending Library, 9676. Total
number of volumes in the library, 29,881.” There are also libraries attached to the various Mechanics' Institu-
tions, the Young Men's Christian Institute, the Friends' Institute, the Infirmary, and other public and
denominational institutions.
* Amongst other periodicals may be named the Townsman the Anti-Corn-Law Circular (1839); Bradshaw's Manchester Jour-
(1803-5); Manchester Magazine (1817); the Catholic (1822); the nal (1841); Country Words (1866); and a weekly periodical of
Phoenix (1822); the Scrap-Book (1822); the Dramatic Censor satire and fun--the Free Lance, No. 1, December 22, 1866.
(1822); the Iris (February 1822 to December 1823); the Reper- * See p. 355 Supra. -
tory of Literature (1826); the Odd Fellows' Magazine ; the Sport- * See notice of the opening of this Library and Museum, p. 352
Žng Chronicle (1828); the United Trades' Co-operative Journal ; Supra.
396 (The #istory of £antagjire.
Manchester, as a great and populous city, the centre of a teeming population, and the head-quarters of
the northern military district of the kingdom, has usually a military force barracked within it, including
troops of three arms of the service. The Infantry Barracks are in Regent Road, Salford, and possess, besides
a large exercising-yard, barrack accommodation for more than 700 rank and file, besides the officers' quarters.
The Cavalry Barracks, Chester Road, Hulme, can receive a body of 300 men and their horses, besides all
grades of officers. These barracks have also a large area for cavalry evolutions. There is also a company of
the Royal Artillery, with several field-guns, ammunition-carts, etc."
The VoIUNTEER movement originated in Manchester in June 1859, the first corps formed being the 1st
Company of the 1st Regiment of Manchester Rifle Volunteers. This company was accepted by government
on the 12th August 1859, and numbered as the 6th Lancashire Regiment. Local subscriptions were commenced
in aid of the expenses of equipping and arming the volunteers, and at a meeting in November 1859 it was stated
that the subscriptions amounted to £3190. This amount has been augmented from time to time by further
subscriptions and donations. Government grants £1 yearly to every volunteer who goes through six parades
and three drills in the year. (New members have to perform thirty parades and drills.) Also 10s, extra
for each man that shoots sixty times with ball in the year, and ranks as second-class shot. The practice is
to have sixteen or seventeen general parades in uniform in the year; and from six to twenty drills not in
uniform. Target-practice is required to be had three times a-year, twenty rounds each ; but volunteers
generally attend very frequently for private practice, and also at meetings where prizes are given for the best
scores, etc. The strength of the regiments is on the average about 800; and the following are the names of
the several regiments raised in Manchester and Salford and their suburbs, with their officers and numerical
strength —
1st Lancashire Light Horse.—A captain, a lieutenant, a cornet, and about 50 rank and file.
19th Lancashire Artillery.—A lieutenant-colonel, 2 majors, 9 captains, 9 first-lieutenants, 9 second-lieutenants, an adjutant,
and 4 staff-officers, about 500.
1st Manchester (6th Lancashire) Rifles.—A colonel, 2 lieutenant-colonels, 2 majors, 12 captains, 12 lieutenants, 12 ensigns, and
an adjutant, 5 staff, and about 800 rank and file.
2d Manchester (33d Lancashire) Rifles.—A colonel, 2 lieutenant-colonels, 2 majors, 13 captains, 12 lieutenants, 12 ensigns, an
adjutant, 5 staff, and about 900 rank and file. [Three other corps have been amalgamated with this regiment—viz. the old 2d and
4th Manchester, and the Droylsden Volunteers.]
3d Manchester (40th Lancashire) Rifles.—A lieutenant-colonel, 2 majors, 10 captains, 10 lieutenants, 10 ensigns, an adjutant,
3 staff, and about 700 rank and file. *
Salford Regiment (or 56th Lancashire).--A lieutenant-colonel, a major, an adjutant, 6 captains, 7 lieutenants, and 6 ensigns.
In all, 16 officers, 33 sergeants, 53 band and buglers, and 429 rank and file—total 531. ... At the last yearly inspection by Colonel
Bruce, July 27, 1867, he commended the appearance, the drill, the firing, and the battalion movements of the regiment, which he
said had increased the government capitation grant by £25 Over that of the preceding year.
In all the Manchester Volunteer Force may be taken as numbering 3000; but this number does not
include various suburban corps, nor those of the many villages round Manchester. There are also in and near
Manchester several rifle-clubs and associations not connected with the volunteer force.
RACES were first established in Manchester, on the course at Kersal Moor, in 1730; they were discon-
tinued from 1745 till 1750, when they were renewed at intervals, notwithstanding much opposition, till
1760, when they became firmly established and continued on the same site till 1846; and they have since
“come off” on the low flat land, nearly surrounded by the river Irwell, belonging to Mr. Fitzgerald, and near
his residence of Castle Irwell. Of late years, besides the usual Whitsuntide races, there has been a smaller
meeting in autumn. Some years ago the Whitsuntide races drew together from 100,000 to 200,000 people;
but now railway and other excursions in the holiday week have a large share of popular favour.
There are three THEATRES in Manchester. The Theatre Royal, in Peter Street, was built in 1845 from
a design by Mr. Chester, and is in the Italian style, costing about £29,000. It is 120 feet long, 55 wide,
and 70 feet high. It is one of the largest theatres in the provinces, and has the most capacious stage of any
out of London. The audience part of the theatre is chastely elegant in decoration, and will hold about 2200
persons.” The Queen's Theatre, at the corner of York Street, in Spring Gardens, is the oldest in Manchester,
having undergone alterations and enlargement at various times, especially in 1815, 1839, and 1854. It is a
plain brick building, and very much smaller than the Theatre Royal. The newest theatre in Manchester is
the Prince's Theatre, in Oxford Street, near St. Peter's Square. It was erected by a joint-stock company in
1864, from a design of Mr. Edward Salomons, architect. It is much smaller than the Theatre Royal.
The MANCHESTER ASSEMBLY-ROOMS were formerly in Mosley Street, but land there becoming very
valuable, the building and site were sold for warehouses, and new, elegant, and commodious assembly-rooms
were built in 1860 in York Street, Cheetham, from a design of Messrs. Mills and Murgatroyd. Of ornamental
1 The head-quarters of the general in command of the Northern
District are at Manchester, and Major-General Sir John Garvock,
K.C.B., is the general in command of the district. The military
staff includes an aide-de-camp, an assistant adjutant-general, a com-
mandant of royal artillery, and One of royal engineers, the barrack-
master of Manchester and the Northern District, who is also super-
intendent of stores. There are two staff-officers of pensioners, an
assistant-Commissary, a deputy inspector-general of hospitals, and a
garrison chaplain.—The 6th Royal Lancashire Militia have a large
building like a fort, and enclosure, for their permanent stores, nearly
opposite the Workhouse, on the Eccles New Road, Salford. They
are under Lieut.-Colonel Commandant T. E. Wilbraham, with adju-
tant, quarter-master, etc.
* See a notice of the opening of this theatre, p. 351 Supra.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlanchester 33arisiſ. 397
brick exterior, the building contains a principal room, 80 feet by 40 feet, and 40 feet high, with a richly-
ornamented ceiling, and other rooms for various purposes—the cost of the whole exceeding £14,000.
There are several club-houses in Manchester, the principal being the Union Club, which has a large and
commodious house in Mosley Street, near the Royal Institution; the Prince's Club, in Cheapside; the
Freemasons' Club, in Cooper Street; the Bridgewater Club, in King Street; and the Albert Club, in Nelson
Street, Chorlton-on-Medlock. There is also the Manchester Chess Club, 11 St. Mary's Gate. The working-
men have several clubs in different parts of Manchester and Salford.
Of the staple manufacturing industry of Manchester and a large surrounding district—the spinning,
weaving, and manufacturing of cotton, as well as its bleaching, dyeing, and printing, and other subordinate
manufactures—an account will be given in an appendix at the end of this work. But there are various other
manufactures, old and new, which must be regarded as amongst the permanent industries of Manchester.
Amongst the textile fabrics are those, single and mixed, of woollen, worsted, stuff, flannel, etc., including
blankets; of linen, alone or mixed with cotton, wool, or silk; of silk, including ribbons, dresses,
embroidered articles, etc.; velvets, table-cloths and damasks, counterpanes and quilts, nankeens, jeans, etc.;
crapes and bombazines, muslins and mousselines-de-laines, shawls, and mantles—in short, every kind and
variety of textile fabric is manufactured in Manchester. Amongst more miscellaneous manufactures are those
of hats and caps, umbrellas and parasols, India-rubber, gutta-percha, and other water and air-proof fabrics;
girth and webbing, etc., and all kinds of Small wares; house, coach, and other upholstery, etc. In iron and
steel the works and manufactures are numerous and varied, including steam-engines (locomotive and
stationary) and boilers; machinery and machines for planing, cutting, drilling and riveting metal plates;
tool-making machinery; railway carriages, Waggons, rails, and plant ; stoves and grates; screws, bolts, rivets,
wire, boiler-plates, etc. In copper and brass are various manufactures, especially of rollers for calico-printers,
boilers, steps, etc. In tin, all kinds of wares, including boxes and cases for inclosing goods for hot climates;
paper for writing, printing, packing, etc., of all kinds. In short, including the trades and handicrafts whose
produce or productions are in demand everywhere, and those which may be termed the agencies between
producer and consumer, with the professions, etc., there are from 600 to 700 varieties of occupation in
Manchester, supplying all the numerous wants of a high material civilisation.
The MANCHESTER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE has its offices in York Chambers, King Street. This
commercial association was originated in 1820. For a few years, during the anti-corn-law agitation, a second
“ commercial association” was formed ; but the two associations subsequently amalgamated, retaining the old
name, in the offices of the younger body. In all questions of home trade and foreign commerce the
Manchester Chamber possesses a high and well-deserved influence, both with the commercial departments of
the government and with the mercantile and manufacturing community throughout the kingdom, and indeed
throughout the civilised world.
INLAND BONDING AND CUSTOMS.–Great efforts were made in 1843-4, to obtain for Manchester the privilege
of inland bonding; and these resulted in the passing of the Manchester Bonding Warehouses Bill, on the 4th
July 1844. The large premises, formerly the cotton-mill of Messrs. Philips and Lee, Chapel Street, Salford,
were taken and fitted up as bonding warehouses, a company being formed to carry on the business. On the
19th October 1844, the first cargo of goods for bonding in Manchester arrived in the flat Eagress. The
cargo consisted of wines and spirits, the property of Mr. William Gibb, the principal promoter of the bonding
bill, and the managing director of the company. On the 11th of the same month, the house No. 73 Mosley
Street was opened for business as the Custom House, Mr. Powell of Newcastle being appointed collector, and
Mr. Shelley of Liverpool comptroller. The custom-house has since been removed to the bonding warehouses,
Chapel Street, Salford. Some changes afterwards took place, but the customs and the bonding have worked
satisfactorily. The following is a statement showing the amount of goods received for the year ending
December 31, 1866; distinguishing goods directly imported under the new system from those forwarded
under bond:—
Number of packages received into the warehouses, 37,156, consisting of-Under bond, wine, 82,756 gallons; directly imported,
51,844 gallons; total, 134,600 gallons. Under bond, brandy, 13,621 gallons; directly imported, 56,304 gallons; total, 69,925
gallons. Under bond, 25,739 gallons rum ; whisky, 37,025; Geneva, 638; cordials, 40; unenumerated spirits, 5177 ; gin, 3343;
2
vinegar, 164; perfumery, 20 ; olive oil, 12 ; tea, 722,742 pounds; coffee, 644,556; cocoa, 10,105 ; pepper, 7415; succades, 25;
tobacco, 242,171 ; cigars, 37,071 ; cigarettes, 123; sugar, 431 cwt. ; chicory, 448; sugar-candy, 218; raisins, 126; figs, 115;
plums, 7 ; currants, 75 ; almonds, 8. The amount of customs duties received in Manchester during 1866 was £139,099, as against
£128,458 in 1865—being an increase of £10,641. In this amount £17,800 more was received for duties on wines and spirits in
1866 than in 1865. -
The MANCHESTER EXCHANGE, the first institution of the name, was built in 1729 by Sir Oswald Mosley,
the lord of the manor, on a site nearly in the centre of the foot of Market Street, Little is known of this
building, but it must have had a large room, for in September 1761 a ball was given therein to celebrtae the
coronation of George III., which was attended by about 700 persons. Gradually it became deserted, a
harbour for thieves and vagrants, and a nest of disease, so that some local writer of the time terms it a filthy
lazaretto. Exchange Street was formed in 1777, but it was not till 1792 that the old building called, but
not then used as, the Exchange, was taken down, and its site was marked by the erection of a sort of pedestal
398 Çiſt ºigturn of £antagjire.
supporting a sun-dial, a clock, and an obelisk, the apex of which was surmounted by a crown. At the foot
of the pedestal were placed the stocks, and the pillory was near. This pedestal was long the centre, every
Tuesday, of a crowd of merchants and manufacturers, especially of country manufacturers, who attended the
market for the sale of their goods, and hired Small apartments near the Market-place at high rents. These,
the sellers and buyers of the day, held exchange in the street around the obelisk, whatever the weather.
'Change then commenced at noon, and ceased, as if by magic, at one o'clock, when all its frequenters disap-
peared to seek their dinners. This inconvenient manner of doing business was felt severely as trade and
population increased, and in 1804, the leases of a number of old buildings near the market-place having fallen
in, the site was secured, and the first stone of a building, on the site of the present Exchange, was laid by
George Philips, esq., on the 21st July 1806. Its news and exchange room was opened the 2d June
1809, having an area of 4060 square feet; and its dining-room, on the first floor, on the 4th June following.
The block of building then comprised, at the back or Bank Street end, the Manchester Post-Office and some
offices; but in October 1839 these were all added to the news-room, making its total area 5506 square feet,
or, according to another account, 812 Square yards, and it was then stated to be “the largest exchange-room
in Europe.” A few years sufficed to render even this space inadequate to the demands of the numerous
subscribers, and it was determined, while preserving the semicircular end of the room, to lengthen it at the
other end, next St. Ann's Square and Bank Street. This was accomplished from a design by Mr. Alexander
Mills, architect, of Manchester, and the new building was opened by a dress ball in aid of the funds of the
Public Baths and Wash-houses, on the 18th March 1849, and it was thrown open to subscribers on the 19th
May. This is the present Exchange; its total external length, from Market Street to Bank Street, being 212
feet, and its width, from Exchange Street to Ducie Street, 100 feet. Its south or principal front, facing St.
Ann's Square, consisted of a Grecian Doric octostyle portico, surmounted by a noble pediment. This façade
was 72 feet in frontage, and 13 feet in advance of the main portion of the building. The stone was chiefly
from Yorkshire, that for the columns of the portico (each 28 feet from base to capital, and 4 feet 4 inches in
diameter) from Darley Dale, Derbyshire. The area of the Exchange-room is 1737 square yards—the largest
covered space for Exchange purposes in the world. This noble room (which is 187 feet in length) is divided
into four sections,—the semicircular part next Market Street called the Rotunda, and the rest divided by
ranges of columns into a centre and side aisles. Besides the windows in the side walls, the room is lighted
by a central dome 33 feet in diameter, its apex 66 feet 6 inches from the floor, and two octagonal lanterns
in the roof. An iron gallery round the Semicircular end was subsequently erected for the news-room, so as
leave all the floor-space for the Exchange-room proper, and the total cost of the whole extension was £86,000.
Sixteen years, however, since this extension, have only served again to demonstrate the rapid growth of the
commercial community, and the necessity of providing increased Exchange accommodation for Manchester.
After some opposition from a body of gentlemen, who wished the Exchange to be taken nearer to Mosley
Street and Portland Street, the committee of the Exchange—which the Queen, after her visit to it, had
authorised to be entitled “The Manchester Royal Exchange”—resolved, and obtained parliamentary and
other powers to carry out their resolution, to extend the Royal Exchange in length from Exchange Street to
Cross Street, and in width from Market Street to Bank Street. This represents an external area of 6600
square yards. After a great number of competing plans had been exhibited, the choice fell upon those of
Messrs. Mills and Murgatroyd, architects, Manchester; and the demolitions necessary are now (September
1867) nearly finished, leaving a clear open space from the present Exchange building in Ducie Street to the
further side of Cross Street, the Guardian newspaper office, etc. In 1868, it may be expected the new erec-
tions will be commenced. We have elsewhere briefly noticed the proposed character of the new edifice.
PUBLIC PARKS.—Manchester possesses two public parks; a third is in process of formation in Hulme,
and a fourth is in Salford. These parks originated in a public meeting in August 1844, at which a subscrip-
tion was commenced which eventually reached the sum of £36,540. In April 1845 a deputation waited on Sir
Robert Peel, then premier, to apply for a grant of money in aid of the subscription ; but as Sir Robert only
offered £3000, and that on condition that a government Surveyor should inspect its disposal, and that
£30,000 of the public subscription be paid up, the mayor of Manchester declined to accept so small a sum,
and the whole amount was raised by public subscription only. The provisional committee appointed by the
subscribers purchased three estates, which were converted into parks for public recreation. The first purchase,
in March 1845, was the Lark Hill house and grounds, opposite the Crescent, Salford, on the bank of the
river Irwell, built about 1790, and formerly the residence of James Ackers, esq., but then the mansion of
William Garnett, esq., for £5000, from which Mr. Garnett returned £500, as his donation to the parks
subscription. This purchase included the house, containing more than forty rooms, and the sloping grounds,
in all 11 acres, 4 roods, 5 perches. To this was added, by purchase, of John Fitzgerald, esq., a portion of
the Walness Meadows (23 acres, 1 rood, 15% poles); and in 1851 and 1861, portions of the Lark Hill and
IMarlborough Square estates were taken of the earl of Derby (2 acres, 2 roods, 21; poles), making the total
present area of the park a little over 38 statute acres. Including the purchase-money of the plots specified,
its conversion into a public park cost about £14,000. The park consists partly of a high natural terrace,
next the Crescent, and the greater part of flat meadow land, bounded on the east by the river Irwell. The
#umbrel of $alford—ſtantiješter 33arisiſ, 399
level land is grassed, and bordered with shrubberies and walks; about three-fourths of it being given up to
athletic sports and games. About five acres are appropriated to cricket ; and besides, a large space of grassy
ground for recreation, in two playgrounds. There are three gymnasia—for men, for little boys, and for
women and girls; a quoiting-ground, a skittle-alley, etc. No place has yet been provided for croquet. The
upper part of the terrace is laid out as garden, lawn, and shrubbery. At the foot of the slope are flower
parterres, an oval pond with drinking-fountain, rockeries, green and forcing houses, etc. The walks in this
park exceed a mile in length. About the centre of the lower part of the grounds an obelisk registers the
height of the great flood of 16th November 1866—viz., 8 feet 6 inches; and another, on the hill-side, marks
the flood-height at the level. The park is well wooded and planted; continual additions are made to this
department, but such is the injurious influence of the Smoke of Manchester and Salford, that the leaves fall,
autumnally, by the end of July. The Crescent front of the park is enclosed by a low rusticated wall and
handsome gilt iron pallisade, 350 yards in length. The east entrance to the park, that nearest to Manchester, is
through the architectural memorial, the “Victoria Arch,” erected in 1860, by subscription, to commemorate the
second visit of the Queen to the park, in June 1857. This is a lofty Byzantine structure, with a frontage of
59 feet and a height of 53; including a central and two side gates of elegantly wrought iron between
octagonal turrets. The western entrance, nearest Pendleton, is through handsome Italian wrought-iron
gates, made in Rome, and formerly the gates of Strangeways Hall—a gift from Earl Ducie. There are five
principal statues in the park—one of marble of Queen Victoria, commemorating Her Majesty's visit to the
park, October 10, 1851, when above 80,000 Sunday scholars assembled on the level part of the park, to
welcome the Queen by singing the national anthem. This statue and that of the late Prince Consort, also of
marble, and erected in 1864, are between the south side of the building and the Crescent. Entering the
park by the east gate, three statues are seen in succession, to the visitor's right. A bronze statue of Joseph
Brotherton, one of the founders of the park, museum, and library, and twenty-four years the parliamentary
representative of Salford, is the first ; then a marble statue of Richard Cobden (placed in 1867); and, nearly
opposite the museum entrance, a bronze statue of Sir Robert Peel. All these five statues were the result of
public subscriptions, and all are the work of one sculptor, Matthew Noble. The mansion of Lark Hill has
been converted into the Royal Borough Museum and Library—an institution originated in May 1849 by E.
R. Langworthy, esq., then mayor, and Joseph Brotherton, esq., M.P. Two extensive wings have been added
and in 1864 a handsome portico was erected at the eastern entrance to the building. The north wing, built
(as well as the grand staircase) in 1852, contains, on the principal floor, a reading and news room, 80 by 30
feet; and over it a picture-gallery of the same size, which also contains a museum of industrial products.
The south wing, added in 1857, has on the chief floor a gallery of engravings, chromo-lithographs, etc., and
over it a picture-gallery, used for the yearly exhibitions of modern and other paintings.
The museum building now (1866) consists of six library-rooms, 20 feet square ; each reading-room 80 by 30 feet, one side and
the ends lined with parliamentary blue books; three rooms 60 by 20 feet; three corridors about the same length; and two galleries
80 by 30 feet, occupied with the museum collections. These include large slabs of Assyrian sculpture, a cast of the Rosetta
Stone, casts of eight Grecian metopes from the Parthenon at Athens, and various Egyptian, Mexican, Chinese, and other Oriental,
Greek, Roman, Celtic, and other antiques ; armour, China and porcelain, carvings, models of costumes, buildings, etc.; and nume-
rous specimens of foreign and English natural history, geology, mineralogy, etc. The basement of the building is let for a refresh-
ment-house. The total amount of subscriptions realised has been £7523, which, with grants from the town-council for buildings,
of £6900, make a total of £14,423 spent in buildings, books, and specimens ; to which must be added many valuable donations
of paintings, engravings, books, and collections in the museum. The present value of the property in the museum and library,
taken from the official inventory, is as follows:—Buildings, £6900; furniture, £2723; works of fine art, #6380; antiquities and
general curiosities, £1351; manufactures and products, £635 ; natural history and geology, £1992; books in reference library, £5954;
lending library, £733; total value, £26,668. Of this sum Mr. Langworthy contributed £5300. The yearly average of visitors to
the museum, etc., is 600,000, and the aggregate number of visitors from the opening to 1866 was nearly eight millions.
The second purchase, in May 1845, was of the Hendham Hall estate, then the residence of Mr. Jonathan
Andrew, containing a large house and about thirty acres of land, already park-like, for £7280. It is about
two miles from Manchester on the Rochdale Road, near the Harpurhey Cemetery, and is named Queen's Park.
It is undulating, well bordered with trees, has two miniature lakes, some fountains; one, a fine stone basin,
was a gift to the park by Malcolm Ross, esq., president of the Chamber of Commerce (1867), and in 1844-5
one of the honorary secretaries to the committee for procuring public parks; his exertions, and those of his
colleague Mr. E. W. Walkin (now M.P. for Stockport), having greatly contributed to the success of this ex-
cellent project. There are three gates to this park in Rochdale Road—a new one being erected in 1867—and
another from a lane leading to Smedley. The old refreshment-house (Hendham Hall) has been converted into
a free museum of natural history, antiquities, etc., a part of it consisting of the large and singular collection
of plaster casts and masks of individuals of all ages, ranks, and classes, made to illustrate phrenology by the
late Mr. William Bally. This park has grounds set apart for open-air games, including cricket, croquet, etc.,
and refreshments are supplied in the basement storey of the museum.
The third purchase was also made in May 1845, of an estate of Lady Houghton in the township of
Bradford, with old Bradford Hall and other buildings upon it, and thirty-one acres of land, for £6200. It
is about a mile and a half distant, as the crow flies, from Queen's Park, and nearly two miles from the Man-
* The principal or entrance corridor has arranged, next its walls, groups of sculpture, single statues, and other casts from the antique,
presented by the Board of Trade.
400 (The ºigtorg of £antagijire.
chester Exchange. It is named Philips Park, after Mark Philips, esq., M.P., one of the most liberal contri-
butors to the subscription and most energetic promoters of the scheme. This park, from a want of good
approaches, is perhaps the least resorted to of the three. It is in many respects the most picturesque, having
finely undulating grounds bounded by the river Medlock on One side, and is tastefully laid out with trees,
shrubberies, parterres of flowers, etc. - - -
All the three existing parks have fountains, separate gymnasia for boys and girls, refreshment-rooms,
and spacious grass-plots reserved for out-door recreation, as cricket, croquet, etc. They were all opened with
a great procession and festivities on the 22d August 1846; and from that time to the present, a period of
twenty-one years, they have proved most agreeable places of recreation and innocent enjoyment to many
hundred thousands of the people of all classes and ages. Very few instances of wanton injury to trees or
flowers have occurred in that time. The corporations of Manchester and Salford are continually improving
the parks under their control, and every succeeding year sees them rendered more and more attractive to
their endless succession of visitors. From the extent to which they are used and enjoyed, they are among
the most admirable sanitary institutions of a great city. * *
The Belle Vue Gardens, Hyde Road Park and Longsight, have an area of nearly 50 acres, and are well
laid out in walks, grass-plots, shrubberies, conservatories, labyrinth, etc. They have an extensive menagerie
and aviaries, with large paddocks for the tamer animals; natural history museum ; two lakes ; large ball-
room, capable of holding 14,000; a platform in the open air for dancing, nearly half-an-acre in area; various
dining and refreshment rooms, arbours, etc. In the Summer season a large pictorial scene is represented on
the border of the annular lake, ending with fireworks. Similar places of popular resort, on a smaller scale, are
the Pomona Gardens, Cornbrook, Hulme; and the Moorfield Gardens at Sale.
There are several ancient mansions in the parish of Manchester, among which may be enumerated Hulme
Hall, the ancient manor-house, occupied in the reign of Henry II. by John de Hulme. It appears from
ancient deeds in the possession of the Lloyds of Welcombe, that Adam, the son of Adam de Rossendale, held
the “man’re de Mamecestr',” meaning the manor-house, in 31 Edw. I. (1303). In 12 Hen. VI. (1434) Ralph
de Prestwych granted the manor-house to Henry de Byrom, in whose possession it remained only five years;
for in 17 Hen. VI. (1439) the same Henry reconveyed it to Ralph de Prestwyche. In the reign of Elizabeth
the queen wrote a letter to Edmund Prestwych, esq., calling upon him to contribute £50 by voluntary con-
tribution to the necessities of the state. In this family the mansion and 'manor continued till 1660, when,
by lease and release, dated 17th and 18th December, Hulme Hall was conveyed to Sir Edward Mosley of
Rolleston by Sir Thomas Prestwich, bart, whose estates were sequestrated in the civil wars." Sir Edward
Mosley died in 1695, leaving an only daughter, Ann, his heiress, married to Sir John Bland of Kippax Park,
in the county of York, bart. In the Bland family Hulme continued till the year 1751, when it was sold, by
the last baronet of this family, to George Lloyd of Manchester, esq., F.R.S. In 1764 the manor and mansion
were purchased by the duke of Bridgewater, and the old hall was demolished to give place to buildings in
connection with the Bridgewater Canal. .
Ancoats Hall, Collyhurst Hall, and Hough Hall, in this parish, have all been occupied as the seats of
the Mosleys. In addition to these mansions, there are in this parish Smedley Hall, a seat of the Chethams,
and Broughton Old Hall, a seat of the Stanleys. Thomas Stanley, the natural son of Henry, fourth earl of
Derby, by Jane Halsall, left a son, Ferdinando Stanley, who died in 1664, without male issue; in 1699 the
estate and manor of Broughton were purchased by George Chetham, who built the old hall in 1706; his son
James succeeded to the property; but dying without issue, it passed, after the death of his sister Anne
Chetham, spinster, to his cousin Edward Chetham, of Smedley and Castleton, the last male descendant of
this ancient family, who died a bachelor intestate in 1763, leaving two sisters; the younger, Mary, married
Samuel Clowes, esq. of Chadwick, to whom, as co-heiress of her brother, the manor was allotted with other
property in 1769, and thus passed into the family of Clowes. The old hall is now (1867) occupied by
H. D. Pochin, esq., mayor of Salford. Broughton Park is being sold in plots for villas.
There were formerly in this parish Strangeways Hall, a seat of the Hartleys, the site of the Manchester
Assize Courts; and Garratt Hall, a seat of the Traffords,” which has disappeared; Ordsall Hall, a seat of the
Radcliffes,” still occupied as a private residence ; Clayton Hall, a seat of the Byrons and Chethams, still
tenanted; Kersal Cell, a seat of the Byroms, now the residence of their descendant Miss Atherton; Denton
Hall, a seat of the Hollands; Birch Hall, a seat of the Haverseges, granted by Matthew de Haversege to
|Matthew de Birch"; Chorlton Hall, a seat of the Mynshulls, converted into a boys' school. In 1590, Chorlton
1 The dowager lady Prestwich encouraged her son to continue
faithful to the royal cause, under an assurance that she had hidden
treasure with which to supply his wants. The depository of this
wealth was supposed to be about Hulme Hall; but the old lady
being taken speechless before her death, which happened suddenly,
the secret was never discovered.
* In the reign of Henry VII. the boys of the Free Grammar-School
in Manchester were required to pray daily for George Trafford and
Margaret his wife, of Garratt Hall, by name, along with other pub-
lic benefactors.
* This family spread into many flourishing branches, as the Rad-
cliffes of Foxdenton, Smithells, Winmarley, Chadderton, Manches-
ter, Todmorden, and Mellor; but suffered a fatal eclipse in the
person of the earl of Derwentwater, and his son Charles Radcliffe,
the titular earl.
* It is conjectured that the plans laid by James, earl of Derby,
for seizing upon Manchester in favour of Charles I. were discon-
certed by the councils of Colonel Birch and his compeers, held at
Birch Hall.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlanchester 33arigly. 401
&
Hall, with the estate attached to it, was sold by Edmund Trafford, esq., to Ralph Sorocold for £320 ; and
in 1644, by Ellis Hey of Monk's Hall, in Eccles, to Thomas Minshull, apothecary in Manchester, for £300;
but, according to Dr Aikin, the same property was sold, towards the close of the last century, for from sixty
to seventy thousand pounds ! There were also Reddish Hall, taken down about 1780; Hulme Hall, in
Reddish ; Barton Hall, in Chorlton-cum-Hardy; Culcheth Hall, in Newton ; and Slade Hall, still existing,
in Rusholme. Many of these mansions are fallen into decay, and are giving place to more stately edifices,
with which the environs of Manchester abound; but they are too numerous and too modern to form the
subject of history." -
The ancient chapelries in Manchester, for the use and convenience of those who live remote from the
mother church, are Salford, already mentioned, Newton, Blakeley or Blackley, Didsbury, Chorlton (Hardy),
Stretford, Denton, Gorton, and Birch.
NEWTON [Heath], two miles from Manchester, is a spacious chapel, dedicated to All Saints. There is no account when or by
whom this chapel was built, but it existed in 1573; and temp. James I. and of Bishop Bridgeman, the chapel was well fitted up
and uniformly seated, and a book of rates made and agreed upon for pew-rents and the maintenance of the curate. In 1650, Mr.
John Walker, “preacher of the gospel,” supplied the cure, and received £34:2:3 from lands and tenements in Newton, formerly
paid to Manchester, “till by order restrayned.” £40 per annum was paid to Mr. Walker by his hearers, being inhabitants, by
voluntary contributions; their tithes (£8 yearly), formerly payable to the Warden and Fellows of Manchester, being kept in their
own hands towards paying the £40. A dwelling-house of two bays, and a stable of one bay, were built by the inhabitants for their
minister.” In Bishop Gastrell's Notitia Cestriensis (1714-1725)” it is certified that nothing belongs to this chapel but a house for
the minister, a small barn with shippon, and about the eighth part of an acre for a garden. Surplice-fees about 35s. yearly, and
voluntary contributions about £22. In 1717, John Greaves, gentleman, gave £300 towards the augmentation of the living. The
registers begin in 1723. The townships of Newton and Failsworth, and parts of Moston, Droylsden, and Bradford, belonged to
this chapelry. Bishop Gastrell names two schools here, but they have ceased to exist. In 1738, the chapel was enlarged, the
Warden and Fellows of Manchester giving the timber, Edward Chetham of Smedley, esq. (the lessee of the tithes), contributing
£50, and the rest of the expense being defrayed by voluntary offerings. It was rebuilt under an act of parliament, 1814. The
patronage of Newton chapel is vested in the Warden and Fellows, now the Dean and Chapter of Manchester. Value of the bene-
fice, 1867, £300. Incumbent, Rev. W. Hutchinson, B.D. (1834).
BLAKELEY or BLACKLEY, about three miles from Manchester, is an old chapel dedicated to St. Peter. The chapel existed in
and before 1548.4. In May 1611, Sir John Byron of Newstead (probably a descendant of the founders) sold the chapel, chapel-
yard, and chamber adjoining the chapel to the inhabitants; they do not appear to have exercised the right of patronage, which
has been long annexed to the collegiate body of Manchester. In 1631 the new seats and benches were allotted and distributed, their
holders contributing four times a-year to the Salary of the officiating minister. In 1649, the parliamentary commissioners returned
Blakeley as one of the seven chapels of ease in Manchester parish that have no allowance to the ministers, and the tithes as worth
£26 per annum. In 1650 they again reported that there was no ecclesiastical benefice in Blakeley, except one dwelling-house built
by the inhabitants for their minister, and a gift of 17s. 8d., per annum for the use of the preacher. Tithes worth £15 per annum.
The registers begin in 1655. In 1736, the chapel was entirely rebuilt, at a cost of £245, defrayed by voluntary subscriptions; it
was afterwards enlarged by the addition of aisles, and galleries were added in 1741. The chapel again became too small for the
population, and was taken down in 1844, and a third, a large and handsome stone structure, was erected on a site considerably to
the north of the former chapel. It is in the Early English style, having nave and side aisles, chancel, and west tower. It cost
£3300, and has 865 sittings, of which 450 are free.* Blackley is now a parish, of which the Rev. W. R. Keeling (1838) is rector.
Another church, St. Andrews, was built in 1865, of which the Rev. E. Parke (1866) is incumbent. The values of the benefices of
St. Peter and St. Andrew are respectively (1867) #182 and £164. St Peter's has 860 sittings, of which 400 are free ; St. Andrew's
299, of which 193 are free. A presbyterian chapel was erected here in 1697, and still exists.
DIDSBURY, four miles from Manchester, is the most ancient chapel in the parish, having been built about 1235. It is dedicated
to St. James. At first it was probably little more than a chantry, and became parochial in 1352, when a commission was granted
by the then bishop of Lichfield and Coventry for the consecration of the chapel-yard of Didsbury, for the burial of such as died of
pestilence in that and the neighbouring hamlets. In 1620 the chapel was entirely rebuilt of stone, a plain edifice, comprising nave,
chancel, and west tower. In 1650 the chapel had a house and tenement, for six years unexpired, worth £10 per annum, and £48 in stock.
Mr. Thomas Clayton was the minister, “an awakening and godly preacher,” who derived his income from the contributions of the
people." The registers begin in 1651. In 1770 the chancel was rebuilt; in 1791 side galleries were erected. In 1850 the chapel
contained 500 sittings, of which 120 were free. In 1855 the church was thoroughly restored, with extensive alterations. It con-
tains various monuments of the Mosleys, whose residence of Hough End was in the chapelry.” Didsbury is now a parish, of which
the Rev. W. J. Kidd (1841) is rector. Patrons—the executors of J. Darwell. Value, £231. Sittings, 541, of which 245 are free.
CHORITON, a township and ancient chapelry, four miles south-west of Manchester, bounded by the river Mersey and the townships
* “There are in this parish some familys of great antiquity, as
well as considerable for Estate and Interest. Of antient family's
we may generally reckon such whose names are the same with the
manor, place, or township they live in, as Trafford of Trafford or
Traiford, a family that has been seated there ever since the Con-
quest, from which 'tis said they can derive in a lineal succession,
and have been often honoured with much usefulness to their country,
in which they are of high esteem and reputation; Barlow of Barlow,
Birch of Birch, Strangeways of Strangeways. This is a very antient
family, especially if what the last of that name, Thomas Strange-
ways, writes of it, Dec. 16, 1648, be true. “My father,’ says he,
‘ as I have heard, did sell some land, and together with it many
antient Evidences. I have seen an antient deed, dated in Edward
I. time, who began to reign 1274, whereby my ancestors did hold
some land in the Deansgate by paying 12d. per ann. rent to the
rector of the parish church of Manchester. I have heard likewise
that one of my ancestors killed a man at the High Altar in the
pärish church of Manchester, but when I know not.” With these
we may join Radcliffe of Oardsall, who was also Radcliffe of Rad-
cliffe, a family of great figure in these parts for some generations,
and not behind any in interest, estate, and reputation. Byron of
Clayton, now a baron's family: They had once a considerable estate
in this county at Clayton, Royton, and about Rochdale, which was
very much impaired in the late great Rebellion, in which so many
worthy men Suffered in their estates.”—MS. in the possession of the
late Dr. Smith. - *
* Lambeth MSS. vol. ii.
* This valuable work has been edited by the Rev. Canon Raines,
in 4 vols. (8, 19, 21, and 22 of the Chetham Society's series), from
which much of the information in the text is derived.—H.
* Probably as a private oratory of the Byrons, under a license
granted in 1411.
* See the Wotitia Cestriensis ; also Rev. J. Booker's History of
the Ancient Chapel of Blackley (1854).-H.
6 Lambeth, MSS. vol. ii.
* Rev. J. Booker's History of the Ancient Chapels of Didsbury
and Chorlton (1857), vol. 42 of the Chetham Society's series.
3 Q
F
402 (ſhe #istory of £antagüirº.
of Stretford, Withington, and Didsbury, is distinguished from Chorlton-upon-Medlock, which adjoins the township of Manchester,
by being coupled in name with the adjacent small hamlet of Hardy, and is described as Chorlton-cum-Hardy. This Chorlton was
anciently included in the lower bailiwick of the barony of Manchester, and it is named in the boundaries of the manor. In 1341, its
taxation for the ninths of corn, wool, and lambs, was 10s. In 1148, Gospatric de Chorlton granted lands there and in Beswick to the
abbey of Cockersand; and the abbot, a century later, claimed rights of waifs, infangthief, and assize of bread and ale, but failed in his
claim. From the similarity of name, and ancient deeds naming “Chorleton” only, it is not easy to distinguish between this township
and the other. Besides the family De Chorlton, the De Traffords were ancient owners of land in both Chorltons. While Chorlton-
on-Medlock owed suit to the Lord's mill at Manchester, Chorlton-cum-Hardy paid multure, etc., to Didsbury mill. Other owners were
the Entwisells, the Tyldesleys, Lovells, Barlows, etc.; and in the reign of Elizabeth the manorial rights of Withington (including
Chorlton) seemed to have passed to the Mosleys. In 1714 the township contained 75 families (about 325 individuals), of which 14
were dissenters. In 1854, 139 rate-payers paid £303 poor-rate; it had then 27 county voters, 3 public-houses and 3 beer-houses ; but
no colliery, railway, canal, or mill, or manufactory of any kind. The original chapel, a half-timbered edifice, was erected about
1512; it was taken down in 1779, and in 1780 a plain brick chapel was erected, which had north and south aisles added in 1837,
thus gaining 200 additional sittings. No records relating to the chapel exist there prior to 1737; but it was probably founded
originally by the local family of Barlow. The endowment, or “church-stock,” was small; in 1650 only £69, and this belonged
jointly to the chapel and a schoolmaster. In 1723, the chapel-living was augmented by the sum of £200 ; in 1835 its annual value
was returned at £103 (£400 private benefactions, and £600 Queen Anne's bounty). The chapel is dedicated to St. Clement, and is
in the gift of the dean and chapter of Manchester. The registers begin in 1737. In 1850 it was returned as a district-chapelry;
the chapel containing 521 sittings, of which 200 were free. It is now a parish, and the Rev. J. E. Booth (1859) is rector. Its
value is stated at £275. Its present number of sittings is 350, of which 75 are free. Schools in connection with the chapel were
originally erected in 1817 by voluntary contributions; and replaced by larger buildings in 1845. A Wesleyan chapel, rebuilt in
1826, contains 274 sittings, 100 of which are free. Margaret Usherwood, by will of August 1732, left the residue of her estate
to clothe and educate six poor children. The interest of £160 (£8) is applied to the schooling and clothing of six poor children.”
STRETFORD, four miles from Manchester, is another ancient chapel, dedicated to St. Matthew. A chapel existed here at a very
early period, supposed to have been founded by the Trafford family, the registers beginning in 1590. In 1650 Mr. John Odcroft
was “preacher of God’s word” here; his salary being paid by the inhabitants, without any allowance from the rectory of Manchester
or otherwise, “to the insupportable burden and charge of the inhabitants.” Its only provision for a minister being 11s. 2d.
yearly, divine service was only occasionally performed here by the warden and fellows, at their leisure. In 1717 the living was
augmented by a gift from John Harrison, gentleman, of £230; and in 1718 a meeting of the inhabitants resolved that the old chapel
should be taken down and a new one built in its place, which was done by voluntary contributions—Mrs. Anne Hinde (who died
in 1724 aged 70), relict of the Rev. John Hinde, Fellow of the Collegiate Church, being a principal benefactor. . She also endowed
a school here, by her will (11th February 1723), settling on trustees a close in Salford and messuages in Fennel Street, Manchester,
to dispose of the rents in instructing ten poor children of the town of Manchester, and ten of Stretford, half girls and half boys.
From this fund, owing to the increased value of property, a much larger number of children are now clothed and educated. Stretford
Church was again enlarged in 1861. The chapelry has become a parish ; the Rev. T. D. C. Morce (1864) is the rector; the dean
and canons of Manchester are the patrons. Value £405. The church contains 1162 sittings, of which 459 are free.
DENTON is the most remote chapel in the parish of Manchester, being five miles distant. The chapel, originally dedicated to
St. James, was built about 1532 by the Hollands of Denton, with the aid of the Hydes of Denton and Hyde. About 1580,
Campion, the Jesuit, complained of Holland of Denton as “a rigid Puritan.” Colonel Richard Holland, M.P., a descendant of
one of the founders, endowed the chapel, about 1650, with a house and garden (worth 16s. a-year) and £100. Mr. John Angier,
a moderate and pious Presbyterian, was the minister of this chapel 46 years (1631-1677). In 1650 he received £5: 16s, clear,
besides voluntary contributions. The late Rev. W. P. Gresswell was incumbent for 58 years. By marriage of the heiress of the
Dentons with Sir John Egerton, the estates and patronage of this chapel passed to the Egerton family, and the present patron is the
earl of Wilton. This chapel is still the same as when first built three centuries ago, being the only one of the more ancient chapels
in the parish still retaining those original architectural features which probably all once had in common. It consists of a nave and
of a small chancel, added about 1800 by the Rev. W. P. Gresswell. The vestry is on the north side, and a bell-turret surmounts
the western gable. The chapel has a low basement of stone, supporting a strong frame of timber (said in an old document to have
been framed in Hibbert wood), with upright posts, divided by horizontal beams into squares, filled with “ruddle and daub,” and
plastered externally. Internally the chapel is divided into two equal parts by an aisle running east and west, the north side being
originally appropriated to Denton, the south to Haughton and Hyde. In 1728 a gallery was erected at the west end. In 1768 the
pewing was renewed. The chapel was originally dedicated to St. James; but the late Mr. Greswell changed the name of its patron
saint to St. Lawrence. That incumbent made various judicious repairs and restorations in 1791, to which the preservation of the
old edifice is mainly due. Denton” is now a parish, of which the Rev. W. Nicol (1853) is rector. The chapel contains 290 sittings,
of which 50 are free. Value £197. There is another church here, named Christ Church, built in 1853, of which new parish the
Rev. T. N. Farthing (1846) is rector. The patronage is vested in the crown and the bishop of Manchester alternately.
GoRTON, about three miles from Manchester, is one of the more modern chapels; it existed shortly after the Reformation, and
occurs in Saxton's map of 1577. It is dedicated to St. James, and its registers begin in 1570. In 1650 Mr. David Davy was “the
godly teacher” there, paid by the voluntary contributions of the inhabitants, saving 26s. 8d. issuing out of a close in Gorton
formerly given by the inhabitants. The tithes were valued at £6 : 13:4 a-year. In 1706 the certified value was £8: 15s.-viz.
a house, garden, and little meadow, £2 : 15s. ; the interest of £80 (£20 of which was given by Sarah Taylor in 1680), £4; rent for
a gallery in the chapel, £2; contributions about £18 per annum, and £2 from Clayton.” In 1847, three stained-glass windows,
representing the Crucifixion and various Christian emblems, were presented to the chapel by the late Rev. Richard Basnett, the
then incumbent. Gorton is now a parish, the Rev. G. Philpot (1864) being the rector. Value £300. Patrons, the dean and chapter
of Manchester. The church contains 410 sittings, of which 83 are free. Gorton has now another church, St. Mark’s, built in
1865, of which the Rev. A. Connell (1865) is incumbent. The present patron is the rector of St. James's, and afterwards the bishop
of Manchester. Value £150. It has 600 sittings, of which 302 are free. St. John's Church, Longsight (though locally in Rusholme),
falls properly within the chapelry of Gorton ; was erected by subscription, Miss Marshall of Ardwick House subscribing £1000 to
the endowment, and £300 to the structure. Mrs. Marshall, her mother, gave £700 to the tower and spire; the site was given by
J. W. H. Anson, esq.; and the church was consecrated in June 1846. It contains 1100 sittings, of which 400 are free. It is now
a parish, of which the Rev. J. A. Atkinson (1861) is rector. Patrons, five trustees. Value £509. -
BIRCH Chapel, two miles from Manchester, is dedicated to St. James. The chapel was built by the Birch family shortly after
the Reformation, though it does not seem to have been consecrated till the reign of Elizabeth. In 1650 Birch Chapel had a house
and a little land belonging to it, then recently purchased by the inhabitants, and worth £3:10s. per annum. Mr. John Wiggan,
the minister, was “painful as a preacher.” He had received some maintenance out of the sequestrations, but all orders expiring
* For many interesting particulars relating to this township and 2 See the Wotitia Cestriensis, and the Rev. J. Booker's History of
ancient chapelry, see the Rev. J. Booker's History of the Ancient the Ancient Chapel of Denton (1855), vol. 37 of the Chetham
Chapels of Didsbury &nd Chorlton (vol. 42 of the Chetham Society’s Society's series. ".
series). 3 Warden Wroe's Account, 1706.
#umurth of $alfort—ſºlamrijegter 33arigi). . 403
about 1650, he then depended on the contributions of the people.” In the valuation return to Bishop Gastrell, £3:10s. was still
the value of the estate, and the voluntary contributions of the inhabitants about £9. In 1720 the contribution of the Birch
congregation was £16. In 1747 John Dickenson, esq., having by his purchase of the Birch estate become patron of the chapel,
contributed £200 towards its endowment. This was met by a grant from Queen Anne's bounty, and an estate was purchased,
which was exchanged for another in 1798, producing in 1849 an annual rent of £65. The London and North-Western Railway
intersects this estate, and paid £600 for the land required, which sum is invested in the funds. In 1780 Miss Mary Dickenson
gave £200 to the endowment, which was met by a grant from Queen Anne's bounty of like amount ; and this £400 was invested in
an estate near Rochdale, which produced in 1849 a yearly rent of £35. In 1850 the annual value of the benefice was estimated at
£180. The registers only commence in 1752, the earlier volumes having been lost. The old chapel was of brick, covered with
gray slates, and consisted of a nave, without chancel, and a small octagonal west turret or bell-cot. A small cottage-like erection,
with a separate south entrance, was called the Dickenson Chapel. The entrance to the main structure was in the west gable.
Its Oaken pews seated about 350 persons, none of the sittings being free. In 1753 Mr. John Dickenson of Manchester, merchant,
obtained a faculty, under which he raised the roof, and lengthened the edifice 12 feet. In 1803 it received substantial repairs and
alterations, at a cost of about £200, and in 1811 it was further improved and supplied with an organ. But the rapid increase of
population demanding greater church accommodation, a handsome new church was erected in 1845-6, from a design of Mr. J. M.
Derick of Oxford, in the Lancet or Early English style of the 13th century. It has a nave, chancel, and side aisles, with a square
tower surmounted by an octagonal spire, 128 feet high, flanking the west end of the south aisle. The lancet windows are of two
lights; the clerestory windows of three lights. The chancel and the west end of the nave have stained-glass windows. There are
no galleries; the pulpit is of Caen stone, and the font is octagonal. The floor of the nave and chancel is paved with encaustic tiles.
The church will seat 750 persons, 400 of the sittings being free. Its erection cost about £4300, the principal contributors being
J. W. H. Anson, esq., the patron, and his brother, the Rev. G. H. G. Anson, the incumbent. The Manchester and Eccles Church-
Building Society subscribed £500, and a liberal subscription was added by the inhabitants. The church was consecrated in July
1846. In March 1850 Birch was returned as a district chapelry, and it was constituted a rectory under the Manchester Rectory
Division Act, by an Order in Council of June 1854. The patron is now Sir J. Anson, bart. ; the value £573.
Birch is locally within the township of Rusholme ; and in 1846 Trinity Church was erected on the Platt estate, in the town-
ship, at the sole expense of the late Thomas Carill Worsley, of Platt Hall, esq., at a cost of about £3600. It is wholly built of
terra cotta, and consists of a nave 75 by 20 feet, a chancel 24 by 20 feet, and two side aisles, each 15 feet in width. There is no
gallery; the seats are all open, and will accommodate 700 persons (another account says 630, of which 130 are free). The tower
is placed at the south-west angle, and is thrown open to the church. The spire is octagonal; the total height 150 feet. The
church was consecrated in June 1846, and is now a parish church, of which the Rev. H. T. Weness (1860) is the rector. Patrons—
the executors of the late Mr. C. C. Worsley.
Several churches, not ancient chapels, remain to be noticed—those of Ardwick, Heaton Norris, and Cheetham Hill.
ARDWICK.—St. Thomas's was founded in 1741; it is now a parish, of which the Rev. J. Nunn is the rector (1867). Patrons,
the dean and canons; value, £300. It is a plain brick structure near Ardwick Green ; has 1500 sittings, of which 600 are free.
St. Silas's, on the Ashton Old Road, was erected in 1842, and is a parish, of which the Rev. R. Butler (1842) is rector. Patrons,
five trustees; value, £300. It has 1115 sittings, of which 500 are free.
HEATON NoFRIS.–St. Thomas's Church was erected in 1765, and enlarged in 1847. It is a parish, of which the Rev. E. D.
Jackson, B.C.L. (1843), is rector ; is in the patronage of the dean and canons of Manchester, and its value is £314. It has 706
sittings, of which 250 are free.—Christ Church, built in 1846, is a parish, of which the Rev. C. B. Jeaffreson (1846) is rector;
patron, the bishop of Manchester; value, £300. It has 1230 sittings, of which 700 are free.
CHEETHAM HILL.—St. Mark's Church (St. Mark's Lane and Chapel Lane) is a plain brick structure, erected in 1794 by the
Rev. C. W. Ethelston. It is now a parish, of which the Rev. Hart Ethelston is rector. Patrons, the dean and canons; value,
#351. It has 850 sittings, of which 100 are free.—St. Luke's, at the corner of Smedley Lane, Cheetham Hill Road, is a handsome
Gothic edifice, erected in 1839 by subscriptions, and is now a parish-church, of which the Rev. J. Chippendall (1863) is rector.
Patrons, five trustees; value, £790. It has 1272 sittings, of which 374 are free.
The charities in the several out-townships in the parish of Manchester have already been enumerated.
No parish in the county of Lancaster can boast so rich a list of worthies as the parish of Manchester;
and in addition to the venerated name of Bradford, whose life has already been inserted, the following bio-
graphical list, chronologically arranged, is presented:—
WILLIAM CHADERTON, D.D., bishop of Lincoln, was the son of Mr. Edmund Chaderton, of Nuthurst, near Manchester,
and born about the year 1540. He was educated, very probably, at the Grammar School at Manchester, and entered a student of
Queen's College, Cambridge, where he took his degrees in Arts. He afterwards became Fellow of Queen's, took his degree of
Bachelor in Divinity, and was elected Margaret Professor early in the year 1567. He was next made prebendary of Westminster,
took his degree of Doctor in Divinity, and, on the 21st of May 1568, was elected Master of Queen's College, and made archdeacon
of York. In the same year he was made chaplain to Robert Dudley, earl of Leicester. In November 1569 Dr. Chaderton was
elected Regius Professor of Divinity in the room of Dr. Whitgift, the Vice-Chancellor and Heads of Colleges applying to the
Chancellor of the University in his favour. In 1570 he addressed a letter to the chancellor, pressing the reformation of certain
libels and seditions, and rebellious quarrels, and strifes in the university, either by his own authority as chancellor, or from
the queen's most honourable counsel, as occasion should require. He represented to his lordship that such were the contentions
and disquietnesses, such the errors and Schisms lately grown up amongst them, that the good state and government of the
university, and, in fine, of the whole realm, were in great hazard unless severely by authority they were suppressed. He
prayed the chancellor, for God’s sake and the care he bore the university, to take some Order for the reform of these disorders,
otherwise Satan would have the upper hand, and they of the university would be all in disorder. He concludes with the
prayer that “Jesus Christ, for his infinite mercy's sake, deliver us in these dangerous times, and grant you long life and
power to be a patron of his glory. Writ from Queen's College, the 11th June 1570.” On the 16th of February 1573 he was
installed prebendary of the church of York, and soon after to stalls in the churches of Southwell and Westminster. In 1574
Dr. Chaderton preached a sermon at Paul's Cross against “the family of Love,” lately sprung up in the neighbourhood of the
university and different parts of the county of Cambridge, and took occasion to declare openly “that a mighty deformity had there
manifested itself;” pretending to show his zeal to conformity, but in reality to expose the bishop of Ely, who now lay under a
cloud at court in consequence of his steady refusal to give up part of his revenues to certain favourites of the queen. Chaderton,
indeed, had flattered himself with the expectation that the bishop for his firm denial would be deprived, and that he himself would
succeed him. But in this he was deceived, and his imprudent conduct in this disgraceful transaction will always remain a blot
upon his memory. The archbishop of Canterbury, in his account of the business to the archbishop of York, said, “that he had
searched out this report so confidently told in the pulpit concerning the sectaries in that diocese, and had found the news enviously
uttered, and that Chaderton talked his pleasure of the bishopric of Ely, which he looked to enjoy, and had laid wagers of the present
* Lambeth MSS., vol. ii.-See Rev. J. Booker's Birch Chapel, and the Township of Rusholme (vol. 47 of the Chetham Society's series).
404 The history of Lancashire.
bishop's deprivation, as he was informed ; and that he would give Somersham House (a seat of that bishop’s) to him who sued for
it (i.e. the Lord North, if I mistake not), which this man, the present bishop, would not do. And, therefore, had brought him
such displeasant report.” On the 7th of November 1578, by the interest of the earl of Leicester, notwithstanding these reports, he
was elected bishop of Chester, and was consecrated on the 9th in St. Gregorie's church, near St. Paul's; and next year was nominated
a member of the Ecclesiastical Commission for the counties of Lancaster and Chester, and elected warden of Manchester College, his
dispensation to hold in commendam bearing date the 5th of June 1579.
In 1581, Dr. Chaderton resided in Manchester, with the view of executing the business of his commission with more effect;
and to his superintendence, while in this important office, were committed the children of numerous families of Manchester and the
neighbourhood, and of others even from distant parts of the county, for the more effectually stemming the progress of popery,
consonant with the orders of Elizabeth and her council. While bishop of Chester, Chaderton was on terms of the strictest intimacy
with the house of Stanley, and preached a funeral sermon at Ormskirk, on the death of the earl of Derby. On the 5th of April 1595,
having resigned his wardenship, he was translated to the bishopric of Lincoln, in which see he was confirmed on the 25th of May,
and enthroned on the 23d of July, 1596. He held this bishopric thirteen years, and died on the 11th of April 1608, and was
interred at Southol, within a mile of his palace of Buckden. There is no memorial of him erected.
Bishop Chaderton, while at Cambridge, was considered a learned and grave scholar; “though, for his gravity,” says Sir John
Harrington, “he could lay it aside when he pleased, even in the pulpit.”
“It will not be forgotten in Cambridge, while he is remembered, how, preaching one day, in his younger years, a wedding sermon,
he is reported to have made this pretty comparison, and to have given this friendly caveat:-that the choice of a wife is full of hazard,
not unlike as if one in a barrel full of Serpents should grope for one fish. If he 'scape harm of the Snakes, and light. On a fish, he may be
thought fortunate. Yet let him not boast, for perhaps it may prove but an eel.” .
This observation, nevertheless, was Chaderton's only at second-hand, for the comparison was first made by Sir Thomas More,
father of the chancellor.
He was beloved by the students in the university for his conciliating disposition, and the rather, “for that he did not affect
any sour and austere fashion either in teaching or government, as some use to do, but was well-tempered, both with courage and
courtesy.” During his episcopacy he was much engaged in transacting matters relative to the ecclesiastical affairs of both counties
of Lancaster and Chester, as well as other business of state, and was in consequence, in 1584, made deputy of the Court of
Exchequer in Lancashire. He was a great favourite with the earl of Leicester and Henry Stanley, the second earl of Derby, from
both which noblemen there are several letters, among more than a hundred others, in the preface to Peck's Desiderata, Curiosa ;
he was also in high estimation with Archbishop Sandys. He married Catherine, daughter of John Revell, esq., of London, by
whom he had an only child, Jane, the first wife of Sir Richard Brooke of Norton, in Cheshire. -
WILLIAM BARLOW, D.D., Bishop of Lincoln, descended of the ancient and respectable family of the Barlows, of Barlow
Hall, near Manchester, was born about the middle of the sixteenth century." He was adopted in very early life by that celebrated
and eminent canonist, Dr. Cosin, dean of the Arches, and the avowed champion of episcopacy, and was brought up at his entire
charge in his own family. In 1580, by the doctor's care, he was entered a student of Trinity Hall, in the university of Cambridge,
of which house Doctor Cosin himself was formerly fellow ; in 1584 he took his degree of bachelor of arts, by which time he had
removed to St. John's College; and in 1587 was admitted master of arts; and on the 16th of October following, elected fellow of
Trinity Hall. In 1597 he was created Doctor of Divinity, and on the 4th of April in that year appointed chaplain to Archbishop
Whitgift, who collated him to the rectory of Orpington, a sinecure, in the county of Kent. He was afterwards made chaplain to
Queen Elizabeth ; presented by the archbishop to the rectory of St. Dunstan’s-in-the-East, and made prebendary of St. Paul's
cathedral. In 1601 he preached the Concio at the convocation at Cambridge, became prebendary of Westminster and Chichester,
and was incorporated in the degree of D.D. in the university of Oxford. In 1603 Dr. Barlow was nominated by James I. one of
the divines on the part of episcopacy, at the conference at Hampton Court, the substance of which controversy he afterwards
published. On the 13th of December 1604, he was installed dean of Chester, in the following year prebendary of Canterbury.
On the 23d of May 1605, he was elected bishop of Rochester, was confirmed on the 27th of June, and consecrated at Lambeth
on the 30th. Having held that see nearly three years, during which time he had given ample proof of his abilities as one of the
translators of the Bible, he was removed to Lincoln on the 21st of May 1608, confirmed on the 27th June, enthroned by proxy on
the 2d July, and afterwards in person on the 1st of September 1609. He died suddenly, at his palace at Buckden, on the 7th of
September 1613, having continued in the see of Lincoln about five years, and was privately interred in the chancel of that church.
It seems, from a letter of Sir Thomas Bodley's in Hearne's Reliquide, that he had hopes of getting the bishopric of London. Bishop
Barlow had the character of a learned and excellent preacher, and was in high esteem with King James, and those in power about
the court. In his addresses in the pulpit he evinced much earnestness and firmness of purpose, and his language was replete with
beautiful imagery and many eloquent passages. There may also be observed in his writings a spice of the quaintness of the age in
which he lived ; and in his private correspondence, and familiar conversation, may be found many proofs of ready wit and happy
conceit. When bishop of Rochester, at that time the poorest diocese in the kingdom, he chose for the motto of his episcopal seal
“Discumbe in imo” (I lie down in the lowest place); but when he was translated to Lincoln, a much richer see, he changed the
verse, and wrote, “Amice ascende superius” (Welcome ascend thou higher). While bishop of Lincoln he occasionally indulged
in the furtherance of literature and the patronage of literary men. -
Sir John Harrington, after speaking of Dr. Young, the late bishop of Rochester, says, “His successor, Doctor Barlow, is one
of the youngest in age, but one of the ripest in learning, of all his predecessors, since Bishop Fisher, that had ill-luck with his
learning to die upon Tower Hill. There are so many printed testimonies of his sufficiency, as I need say the lesse of it, but it is
like he shall not abide there long. Of all his sermons he preached before Queen Elizabeth, which were many and very good, one
that she liked exceedingly, was of the Plough, of which she said, ‘Barlow's text might seem taken from the cart, but his talk may
teach you all in the court.” He made a sermon not long after that at Paul's, which men, especially Puritans, did much mislike, and
for that cause call it (alledging his name) ‘the Barley-loaf,’—not marking how much honour they give it in their scorn, by example,
both of the Old Testament, where the Barley Loaf signified Gideon's sword, ordained to destroy the wicked ;-and in the new, by
the blessing of our Saviour, that fed more thousands of honest men than this offended.” Dr. Barlow wrote—
“A Translation of three Sermons by Ludovic Lawater of Zurich, by order of the Archbishop of Canterbury,” 8vo, 1596; “Vita et
Obitus Richardi Cosin, Legum Doctris, Decani Curiae de Arcubus,” 4to, Lond. 1598; “Carmina funebria in ejusdem Venerandi Doctoris
triste fatum, &c.” Lond. 1598, 4to ; “A Sermon preached at Paul’s Cross, with a short discourse of the late Earl of Essex's confession
and penitence at the time of his death,” Lond. 1601, 12mo ; “A Defence of the Articles of the Protestant Religion, in answer to a libel
lately cast abroad,” Lond. 4to, 1601 : “The Sum and Substance of the Conference which it pleased His Majesty to have with the Lords
Bishops and others of his Clergy, in his Majesty's Privy Chamber at Hampton Court, Jan. 14, 1603,” Lond, 4to, 1603, 1638; “A Sermon
preached before His Majesty on the Antiquity and Superiority of Bishops,” Lond, 4to, 1606; “A Sermon preached at Paul's Cross, after
1. It appears from deeds in the Harleian Collection, codex 2112, that the Barlows were seated at Barlow Hall as early as the 20th
Rich. II. (1396-97).
§
§§
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlatch ster parish. 405
the discovery of the late horrible Treason,” Lond, 4to, 1606; “Titio erepta, a Brand Snatched from the fire, being a Sermon preached
before the Privy Council,” Lond, 4to, 1607; “An Answer to a Catholick Englishman, on the Apology of James 1st, for the Oath of
Allegiance,” 4to, Lond. 1609. -
HUMPHREY CHETHAM, esq., founder of the Blue Coat Hospital and Public Library in Manchester, was the fourth son
of Henry Chetham of Crumpsall, gentleman, and baptized at the Collegiate Church of Manchester on the 10th of July 1580. The
family is of great antiquity, and received its surname from the little village of Chetham, two miles to the north of Manchester, and
was represented, in the reign of Edward I. by Sir Geoffrey Chetham, of Chetham, knight, a man of considerable character and
renown, from whom the subject of this memoir is thought, with great apparent probability, to have been descended. Some of his
posterity having favoured the cause of Richard III. against the earl of Richmond, their future sovereign, the fortunes of the family
were materially injured ; they still continued, however, to reside near the place where they had been so long settled, and, upon
the death of Henry Chetham, above named, James, his eldest son, succeeded to the Crumpsall estate, while George, Humphrey,
and Ralph, embarked in the trade for which Manchester had for some time been distinguished. From the evident taste for literary
acquirement displayed by Humphrey in after life, there is good reason for supposing that he received his education at Manchester
school, founded by Bishop Oldham ; and it seems probable also that, with his two brothers, he was apprenticed in that town, and
brought up to the trade of the district. At this period Manchester and Bolton were the chief markets for fustians, which were
brought thither from all parts of the surrounding country. The Chethams were the principal buyers, and the London dealers were
supplied by them with these materials of apparel, then in almost general use throughout the nation. By this commerce, which
was probably conducted on an extensive scale, Mr. Chetham acquired opulence, while his strict integrity, his piety, his works of
charity and benevolence, secured him the respect and esteem of those around him. He purchased considerable estates in the
county, and resided chiefly at Clayton Hall, near Manchester, at that time surrounded by a moat, the traces of which are still
visible. Fuller briefly mentions him among his Worthies of England ; and from his authority we are told that he was “a diligent
reader of the Scriptures, and of the works of sound divines; a respecter of such ministers as he accounted truly godly, uprighte,
sober, discreet, and sincere.”
In 1635 he was nominated to serve the office of sheriff of the county, and discharged the duties thereof with great honour,
several gentlemen of birth and estate attending, and wearing his livery at the assizes, to testify their respect and affection for him.
In 1647 he presented a petition to the House of Commons, praying to be excused from serving as “treasurer for receipt of several
sums of money assigned for the use of the county of Lancaster,” on account of his many infirmities; the appointment, nevertheless,
was held good. Having reached the seventy-third year of his age, he died on the 12th of October 1653, and was interred in a small
chapel, at the east end of the Collegiate Church of Manchester. A monumental statue has been erected to his memory. The charity
of Mr. Chetham was not to appear only after his death; the chief institution provided for in his will was but a completion of one
which he had formed long before. The unassuming manner in which this is alluded to shows him to have been free from all pride
and ostentation. During his life he had “taken up and maintained fourteen poor boys of the town of Manchester, six of the town
of Salford, and two of the town of Droylsden; in all twenty-two.” Having never married, he thus became a father to the fatherless
and destitute; and doubtless many were the children of adversity, that, during the lifetime of this good man, successively found
protection in his fostering and paternal benevolence. By his will, dated the 16th of December 1651, he directs that the before-
mentioned number of boys be increased to forty, by the election of another boy from the township of Droylsden, ten from Bolton,
and five from Turton : bequeathing the sum of £7000 for the purchase of a fee-simple estate, the profits of which are to be applied
to the support of this institution. The boys are to be elected, in the proportion specified, from the six townships mentioned in the
will, and to be the children of poor but honest parents, not illegitimate, nor diseased, lame, or blind, when chosen. They are to
be clothed, fed, and instructed, from the age of about six to fourteen, when they are to be bound out, at the expense of the
institution, to some honest and useful trade. Nearly one-fourth of the boys are discharged at Easter, and others elected in their
stead, by the feoffees, twenty-four in number, who have invariably been gentlemen of the first respectability in the neighbourhood,
and are a corporate body by charter, dated the 20th of November, 17 Charles II., 1665. By judicious management the feoffees
have been enabled to augment the number of boys upon the foundation to one hundred. Mr. Chetham bequeathed also the sum of
#1000 for the purchase of books; and £100 for a building, as the foundation of a public library, for the augmentation of which he
devises the residue of his personal estates, after the payment of certain legacies; and this is said to have amounted to more than
#2000. He farther bequeathed the sum of £200 to purchase godly English books, to be chained upon desks in the churches of
Manchester and Bolton, and the chapels of Turton, Walmesley, and Gorton." The Chetham library, by repeated additions, is
become one of the most extensive in the north of England, and it is the oldest free library in the kingdom. It consists of
about 30,000 volumes, and is peculiarly rich in the departments of theology, history, and the Greek and Roman classics.
It possesses also some valuable works on natural history, several fine collections of engravings, and a few choice manu-
scripts. It is indeed much to be wished that it were more abundantly furnished with articles of this latter description ; and
that gentlemen resident in the county, and especially in the neighbourhood, who are possessed of manuscripts of general interest,
would consider this library a suitable depository for them ; for, if the records and papers, which now lie dispersed in different
hands, subject to the chances of being lost, obliterated, or destroyed, were thus brought together, they might form a valuable
storehouse of information, and offer some encouragement to those who engage in elucidating the history and antiquities of the
county. For a much more extended account of this humane and charitable individual, see the History of the Grammar School, and
Chetham Hospital and Library, forming the second and third parts of the History of the Collegiate Church, etc., in the History of
the Foundations of Manchester (1833-34).
JOHN BOOKER, a noted astrologer of the seventeenth century, was the son of John Bowker (commonly pronounced Booker)
of Manchester, and born on the 23d of March 1601. He received his early education in his native town, where he acquired some
acquaintance with the Latin language. From his infancy he showed an inclination for astrology, and generally amused himself,
during his early years, with poring over and studying almanacks and other books of his favourite science. At an early age he was
sent by his parents to London, and bred a haberdasher in Lawrence Lane; but quitted that employment, and followed the profession
of a writing-master at Hadley, in Middlesex. He was afterwards for some time clerk to the aldermen at Guildhall. In a few
years he became so well known that he was appointed licenser of mathematical publications, in which class were then included all
those which related to the celestial sciences. Lilly tells us that he once thought him the greatest astrologer in the world; but it
appears that he afterwards sunk in his estimation, and that he thought himself a much greater man. George Wharton, who had
been formerly one of his astrological acquaintances, had a great quarrel with him, and in consequence published at Oxford, in
1644, in answer to one of Booker's pamphlets, what he called “Mercurio-Coelico-Mastix ; or an Anti-caveat to all such as have
heretofore had the misfortune to be cheated and deluded by that great and treacherous impostor, John Booker, in an answer to his
frivolous pamphlet, entitled ‘Mercurius Coelicus, or a Caveat to all the people of England.’” The only work of Booker's now
worth noticing is the “Bloody Irish Almanac,” which contains some memorable particulars relative to the war in Ireland. He died
of dysentery in April 1667, and was buried in St. James's church, Duke's Place, in the city of London. A memorial was erected
1 See “Bibliographical Notices of the Church Libraries at Turton and Gorton, of Humphrey Chetham, 1655,” edited by the late Mr.
Gilbert J. French (vol. 38 of the Chetham Society's series).-H.
406 Qſìje 3%istory of £amcashire.
to him by Ashmole, who was one of his greatest admirers." The following character of Booker is from “Lilly's Life and Times,”
and affords a good example of the credulity of their age and profession. -
“He was a great proficient in astrology, whose excellent verses upon the twelve months, framed according to the configurations of
each month, being blest with success according to his predictions, procured him much reputation all over England: he was a very honest
man; abhorred any deceit in the art he studied; had a curious fancy in judging of thefts ; and was successful in resolving love questions.
He was no mean proficient in astronomy; understood much of physick; was a great admirer of the antimonial cup ; not unlearned in
chymistry, which he loved, but did not practise; and since his decease I have seen a nativity of his performance exactly directed, and
judged with as much learning as from astrology can be expected. His library of books came short of the world’s approbation, and were
by his widow sold to Elias Ashmole, esq., who most generously gave far more than they were worth.”
Lilly and he were frequently consulted during the differences between the king and the parliamentary army ; and were once
invited by General Fairfax, and sent in a coach-and-four to head-quarters at Windsor, to give their opinions on the prosecution of
the war. He became famous for a prediction on the solar eclipse of 1663, in which year both the king of Bohemia, and Gustavus,
king of Sweden, died. Booker has given to the world the following works —
“The Bloody Almanack; to which England is directed to foreknow what shall come to pass: ” Lond, 4to, 1643. “Almanack et
Prognosticon, sive Speculum Anni à Nat. I. C.:” Lond, 12mo, 1643. “Mercurius Coelicus, or a Caveat to all the People of the King-
dome, that now have, or shall hereafter happen to read the counterfeit and most pernicious pamphlet, written under the name of
Naworth :” Lond. 4to, 1644, ed. alt. 1644. Naworth was George Wharton's Anagram. “ Mercurius Wapulans, or Naworth stripped
and whipped; in answer to a pamphlet called ‘Mercurio-Coelico-Mastix:’” Lond. 4to, 1644. “No Mercurius Aquaticus, but a cable-
rope double twisted for John Taylor, the Water-Poet, who escaping drowning in a paper-wherry-voyage, is reserved for another day, as
followeth : Lond, 4to, 1644. “A Rope Treble Twisted for John Taylor, the Water-Poet :” Lond. 1644, 4to. “A Bloody Irish
Almanack: or Rebellious and Bloody Ireland discovered in some Notes extracted out of an Almanack printed at Waterford, in Ireland,
for this yeare 1646 :” Lond. 1646, 4to. “A Brief Judgment Astrologicall, concerning the present designe of the L. Governor (Lt.-Gen.
Cromwell) against the Rebels of Ireland :” Lond. 4to. 1649. “Coelestial Observations: or an Ephemeris for 1652:” Lond. 12mo,
1652, “OTPANO0EQPIA; or an Ephemeris for 1656:” Lond. 12mo, 1656. “Tractatus Paschalis : or a Discourse concerning the
Holy Feast of Easter, &c :” Lond, 8vo, 1664. “Almanack for the year 1664:” Lond, 12mo, 1664. “An Ephemeris for 1666:”
Lond. 1666, 12mo. “The Dutch Fortune Teller brought into England, with Cuts:” Lond, folio, 1667. “Telescopium Uranicum
repurgatum et limatum ; an Almanack for 1667:” Lond, 12mo, 1667.
RALPH BRIDEOAKE, D.D., bishop of Chichester, was the son of Richard Brideoake of Chetham Hill, near Manchester,
and born in the year 1614. He was educated at Manchester school, and admitted a student of Brazennose College, Oxford, on the
15th of July 1630, at the age of sixteen, and in 1634 took his degree of bachelor of arts. Having gone through his various
exercises with credit to himself, and to the satisfaction of the vice-chancellor, he was, in consideration of the narrowness of his
circumstances, elected pro-chaplain of New College; and, on the 13th of August 1636, on the king's visit to the university, created,
by royal letters, master of arts. He contributed, in common with some others, a copy of Latin verses, and another in English, to
the “Musarum Oxoniensium Charisteria pro Serenissima Regina Maria, recense mixus laboriosi discrimine recepta,” which were
printed by the university in 1638. Shortly afterwards he was made curate of Wytham, near Oxford, by Dr. Brinkemden of Magdalen
College, and appointed corrector of the university press. In the course of this employment, a work composed and published by Dr.
Thomas Jackson, president of Corpus Christi College, was submitted to his care, and the execution of this duty so highly satisfied the
doctor that, as a reward for his services, he presented him to the high-mastership of Manchester school, where he had received his edu-
cation. Brideoake had not long resided in the north before his friends procured sufficient interest to obtain his appointment as one of
the chaplains to James, earl of Derby, with whom, by his obsequiousness and ready attentions to the family, he contrived deeply to
ingratiate himself. During the period of the siege of Lathom House by the Parliamentary forces, he appears to have acted the part
of Secretary to the earl, in conjunction with Baggerley and Rutter, his fellow-chaplains, and, according to Wood, “to have done
good service.” It may not, therefore, be altogether impossible that we are in part indebted for the journal of that celebrated siege
to BrideOake's pen. On the decline of the king's cause, and the subsequent advancement of the Parliamentary power in Lancashire,
the earl of Derby was obliged to move southwards to the assistance of his majesty, and Mr. Brideoake was left to take the manage-
ment of his estates. He discharged his duty to his noble patron faithfully, and supported his broken fortunes to the utmost of his
abilities; and in 1651, when the earl had fallen into the hands of Major Edge, on his retreat after the disastrous battle of Wor-
Cester, and was condemned to the scaffold, he accompanied Lord Strange to London, and got his petition for his father's pardon
presented to the speaker of the House of Commons. He solicited Lenthall's intercession to save his master from an ignominious
death with extraordinary and unwearied application ; and did not desist from his importunity until he found his expectations
utterly hopeless. Although the speaker saw it was impossible to accede to his wishes, and felt himself compelled to reject his suit,
he could not but be forcibly struck by the uncommon interest Brideoake's conduct manifested in the fate of the unfortunate earl;
and finding him a man of parts and business, nominated him his own chaplain, and gave him the appointment of preacher of the
Rolls chapel. By his new master's interest he was also made vicar of Whitney, and soon procured the rectory of of the same place,
which had been leased out, to be annexed to the vicarage, and thus enjoyed one of the richest pieces of preferment in the diocese of
Oxford. On the 14th of March 1659 he was appointed one of the commissioners, by act of parliament, for the approbation and
admission of ministers of the gospel after the presbyterian mode; but that act being soon after set aside, on the king's restoration,
“having a good way of thrusting and squeezing, and elbowing himself into patronage,” he became chaplain to his majesty, was installed
canon of Windsor, and created Doctor of Divinity. On the 8th of September he was made rector of Bartholomew, near the Royal
Exchange, in the city of London, “where, in holding forth, preaching, and laying about him in the pulpit, he equalled any of the
holy brethren in the city.” He next became rector of the rich church of Standish, in Lancashire, to which, indeed, he had been
previously presented by Lord Derby, but had never enjoyed it, owing to some dispute with the Triers in Cromwell's time. In
September 1667 he was made dean of Salisbury, in the room of Dr. Richard Bayley; and in February 1674, by the intrigues of
Louisa Querouille, duchess of Portsmouth, the favourite mistress of Charles II., “whose hands were always ready to take bribes,”
was nominated by the king to the bishopric of Chichester. He was elected on the 9th of March, confirmed on the 15th, and con-
Secrated on the 18th of April 1675, and was permitted at the same time to hold in commendam with that see his canonry of Windsor
and the rectory of Standish. He lived little more than three years after his elevation to the mitre, and died, during a visitation of
his diocese, on the 5th of October 1678, in the sixty-fourth year of his age, and was interred in St. George's chapel.
A sumptuous monument was erected over his remains by his widow, adorned with a handsome statue in marble, in episcopal
robes, and a laudatory Latin inscription. Bishop Brideoake was a trimmer, and spent the greater part of his busy life in the
acquisition of wealth and power. Pliant to his superiors as occasions might serve, he seems to have been a thorough master of the
art of conciliation, and of converting a favourable opportunity to his own advantage. Fashioning his conduct as a preacher to the
Various times in which he lived, he had little difficulty in satisfying his audience, and suiting their expectations. His constancy to
the earl of Derby, an indulgent and generous patron, and a high-minded gentleman, forms the best part of his character ; and the
ready adaptation of his opinions to meet the views of Lenthall speaks equally well of his ability as a courtier and a man of the world.
He was accounted a good Grecian, and possessed some taste in poetry,
#umbren of $alfort—ſhamriješter #arisiſ. 407
JOHN WORTHINGTON, D.D., Master of Jesus College, and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Cambridge, an excellent
divine of the Church of England, was the son of Roger Worthington, gentleman, “a person of chief note and esteem,” and born at
Manchester on the 8th of February 1617. He was educated at the Free Grammar School at Manchester, and entered of Emanuel
College, Cambridge, of which house he became Fellow on the 5th of July 1632; was created Bachelor of Divinity in 1646; was
incorporated, in 1649, in the same degree in the University of Oxford, and received the Doctorate in that faculty in 1655. In 1657
he was chosen Master of Jesus College, vacant by the ejectment of Dr. Richard Sterne, afterwards archbishop of York, but resigned
the appointment, and was elected Vice-Chancellor of the University, which office he held till 1660. He became successively Rector of
Horton in Buckinghamshire, Gravely and Fen Ditton in the county of Cambridge, and Barkham with Needham in Suffolk. During
the years 1660 and 1661 he cultivated a frequent correspondence with that eminent promoter of learning Mr. Samuel Hartlib, four-and-
twenty of Dr. Worthington's letters being published at the end of his Miscellanies, and several others by Bishop Kennet in his Register
and Chronicle. In 1663 he was collated to the sinecure rectory of Moulton All Saints in Norfolk. In 1664 he was curate of St.
Benet Fink, under Doctor Evans, canon of Windsor, and continued to preach there during the plague year, 1665, coming weekly
from Hackney, where his family resided. He was afterwards presented by Dr. Henry More, of Christ College, Cambridge, to the
living of Ingoldsby, in Lincolnshire, and, by the interest of Archbishop Sheldon, was made prebendary of Lincoln Cathedral. He
enjoyed also the benefice of Holmes Chapel in the county of Chester. From Ingoldsby he removed to Hackney, as lecturer of that
church, with a subscription from Lady-day 1670; and was reappointed to the cure of St. Benet Fink, rebuilt after the fire of London,
but died on the 27th of November 1671, and was buried in the chancel of Hackney church, where the following inscription was
erected to his memory —
“To the memory of John Worthington, D.D., sometime master of Jesus College, in Cambridge, and minister of this parish, who was
as remarkable for his piety and learning as any the last age has produced; and by his own pious and excellent works, as well as by pub-
lishing those of the most learned men of his time, has rendered his memory precious to all succeeding generations. He was born at
Manchester in February 1617, and through the whole course of his life showed an uncommon zeal for the glory of God, in promoting piety
and virtue; and by a strict attendance on the duties of his sacred functions was highly acceptable in every place he had a relation to.
He died November the 26th 1671. The famous Dr. Tillotson, in the character he gave him at his interment, will supply the defects of
this table. This monument was erected pursuant to the will of John Worthington, his son, born at Fen Ditton, in Cambridgeshire, when
his father was rector there ; was Fellow of St. Peter's College, Cambridge ; and by his piety, humility, and learning, showed himself not
unworthy so great and good a progenitor. He died the 19th of January 1737, aged 75, and, by his own appointment, lies buried in the
adjoining churchyard.”
Dr. Worthington has written “Form of Sound Words, or a Scripture Catechism, showing what a Christian is to believe and practise
in order to salvation:” Lond, 8vo, 1673, 1674. “The Great Duty of Self-Resignation to the Divine Will,” published by Edward Fowler,
Bishop of Gloucester: Lond, 8vo, 1675. “Charitas Evangelica, or a Discourse of Christian Love,” published by his Son: Lond, 8vo,
1591. “Forms of Prayer for a Family,” published by Bishop Fowler: Lond. 8vo, 1693. “Select Discourses, treating of Self-Resignation
to the Divine Will, of Christian Love, and of the Resurrection, and a Reward to Come,” published by his Son: Lond. 8vo, 1725.
“Funeral of B. Bennet, on Matt. xxiv. 36:” Lond. 8vo, 1725. “Three Discourses:” 8vo, 1725. He also revised and republished the
works of Joseph Mede, of Christ's College, a very eminent divine of the Seventeenth century, and prefixed an elaborate preface ; also those
of John Smith, Tutor of Queen's."
The following character of Dr. Worthington is extracted from his funeral sermon by Archbishop Tillotson —
“I do not intend to give you the history of his life, and therefore shall not trouble you with the circumstances of his birth and
education, and such like considerations, which are too remote from what I design, in short, to say of him. I shall chiefly consider him in
his profession, in his accomplishments for it, and his public usefulness in it. He had, by the great industry and pains of his whole life,
and God’s blessing upon them, furnished himself with a great stock of all excellent learning proper to his profession; especially with that
which did more immediately conduce to the knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, the best and most proper skill of a divine. Thus he was
peculiarly fitted to teach and instruct others; and that his doctrine might be the more effectual, he showed himself in all things a pattern
of good works, and taught others nothing but what he had first learned himself. His whole demeanour was pious and grave, and yet not
lolemished with any moroseness or fond affectation. And as his knowledge was great, so was his humility. He was a zealous and sincere
friend where he professed kindness; and charitable to the poor even beyond the proportion of his estate. He was universally inoffensive,
kind, and obliging, even to those that differed from him. And to set off all these virtues, there was added to them, in a very eminent
degree, the ornament of a meek and quiet Spirit, which, in the sight of God, is of great price. Especially in debates and controversies of
religion he was not apt to be passionate and contentious, remembering that the wrath of man worketh not the righteousness of God; and
that the servant of the Lord must not strive, but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose
themselves, if peradventure God will give them repentance to the acknowledgement of the truth. But that which was most singularly
eminent in him was the publickness of his spirit, and his great zeal and industry to be profitable and useful to the world, especially in
those things which tended to the promoting of learning and piety. And to that end he was very inquisitive after the labours of pious and
learned men, and was very ready to take any pains and give any assistance to the furthering the publishing of them for the benefit of the
world. Of this I could give you many instances, but I cannot omit one great one : the infinite pains he took for several years together in
collecting and reviewing and publishing the works of that learned and excellent person Mr. Mede ; which he did with so much care that it
would be hard to instance, either in Our Own nation, or perhaps anywhere else, so vast a work that was ever published with more exactness,
by which he hath raised up to himself a monument likely to last as long as learning and religion shall continue in the world. This was
the temper of that good man, who is now at rest from his labours, and gone to enjoy the reward of them ; who, as he delighted to inculcate
the example of our blessed Saviour, and to stir up Christians to the imitation of it, so he made it his own pattern, and, like him, went
about doing good, and working the work of Him that sent him while it was day, considering that there was a night coming wherein no
man can work.”
JOHN BYROM, A.M., F.R.S., a poetical writer, and inventor of a system of stenography, youngest son of Mr. Edward
Byrom, a linen-draper of Manchester, descended from the ancient and respectable family of the Byroms of Kersall, was born in the
year 1691. He received his early education at home, and was removed to Merchant Taylors' school in London, where he made
great progress in the classics, and was speedily fitted for the university. . At the age of sixteen he went to Cambridge, and was
admitted a pensioner of Trinity College on the 6th of July 1708, under the tuition of Mr. (afterwards Dr.) Baker. At college,
however, he paid no more attention to study than was necessary to qualify him for undergoing the requisite examinations with
credit, and to enable him to take his degree of bachelor of arts, which he received in 1711. Mr. Byrom's passion for poetry showed
itself at a very early age ; and the first proof of his talent, which brought him into general notice, was the “Pastoral of Colin and
Phoebe,” printed in the eighth volume of the Spectator, and composed probably in his twenty-third year. This has been universally
admired, and is, indeed, the best of his poems, and the chief ground of his reputation. The Phoebe of this piece was Joanna,
daughter of Dr. Bentley, master of Trinity College, afterwards married to Dr. Dennison Cumberland, bishop of Clonfert and
1. Of the “Diary and Correspondence of Dr. John Worthington” two volumes have been printed by the Chetham Society (vols. 13
and 40), under the able editorship of its president, James Crossley, esq., F.S.A., and the third and concluding volume is shortly to
follow (1867). g
408 Qſìje #igtúrg of £ancagüire,
Killaloe, and mother of Richard Cumberland, esq., the well-known dramatic writer. It has been said, but without any truth, that
Byrom paid his addresses to Miss Bentley. His object was rather to recommend himself to the attention of her father, who was an
admirer of the Spectator, and likely to notice a poem of so much merit, coming, as he would soon be told, from one of his college.
Mr. Byrom had before this sent two ingenious papers on the subject of dreaming to the Spectator, which had introduced him to the
particular notice of Dr. Bentley, by whose interest, in 1714, he had been chosen fellow of his college, about the time he was
admitted master of arts. Being undecided in his choice of a profession, and having declined entering into holy orders, he was
obliged by the statutes of the college to vacate his fellowship in 1716; and this circumstance, joined to a delicate state of health,
induced him to visit Montpelier, where he resided some time. During his stay in France he met with Malebranche’s “Search
after Truth,” and some pieces of Mademoiselle Bourignon; the consequence of which was that hereturned home strongly impressed
with the visionary philosophy of the former, and the enthusiastic extravagance of the latter. He was particularly fond of
Malebranche's notion of seeing all things in God; and it was evident, moreover, from his poems, that in the latter part of his life
he was attached to Jacob Behmen. Upon his return to London he applied himself to the study of medicine, but did not proceed
So far as to take any degree, though, from that time, he acquired among his acquaintance the familiar title of Dr. Byrom. This
pursuit was interrupted, and his mind rendered still more unsettled, by a love affair with Elizabeth, the youngest daughter of his
uncle, Mr. Joseph Byrom of Manchester, then on a visit with her sister in London. After a time he followed her to Manchester,
where he prosecuted his addresses with so much ardour as to gain the lady's favour and consent, and afterwards, notwithstanding
the opposition of her parents to the match, to marry her. . Receiving no addition to his fortune, his means were quickly exhausted,
and in this exigency he had recourse to his new method of teaching short-hand, which he had invented at Cambridge, for subsist-
ence. The first occasion of turning his attention that way arose from his acquaintance with Mr. Sharp of Trinity College. This
gentleman's father, at that time archbishop of York, had recommended to his son to make himself master of shorthand, as a very
useful method of taking notes. Incited by an authority so respectable, the two friends applied themselves to the study of the art
then in vogue; but Mr. Byrom was so disgusted with the absurdity and awkwardness of its contrivance, that he soon threw it
aside. Smitten, however, with the idea of an art so useful in life, and so capable of being brought to much greater perfection, he
consulted everything that could be procured, either in print or manuscript, which had been written on the subject; but finding
them all, however differing in trifling circumstances, equally arbitrary, inartificial, and defective in their first principles, he resolved
to attempt a system of his own, upon a more natural, rational, and philosophical plan. The rules he prescribed to himself in the
execution of it were—1st. That all the simple sounds of the language should be denoted by the shortest and simplest strokes or
marks in nature. 2dly. That those marks, which were the shortest and easiest to be formed, should be assigned to the commonest
letters. 3dly. That those letters which most frequently occurred together should be denoted by those marks which were most
easily joined. 4thly. That all the marks, of which any word was composed, should be written without taking off the pen, or
permitting any of them to rise above, or sink below, two parallel lines, within which the writing should be always regularly and
beautifully confined. And, lastly, that all the rules of abbreviation should be founded upon the properties of the language, and
expressed by the letters of the alphabet only, without admitting of any arbitrary marks for that or any other purpose. To unite so
many different perfections in one scheme, and make a consistent system of the whole, was an undertaking of such difficulty and
labour, that Mr. Byrom himself, though excellently well qualified for it by a very extensive knowledge of the nature of
language in general, and a thorough acquaintance with the idiom and properties of his own in particular, for a long time despaired
of being able to accomplish it ; and it was by an indefatigable and obstinate perseverance in making, through the course of many
years, continual trials, alterations, and amendments, that he at last succeeded, to the satisfaction of himself and a few learned and
judicious friends, to whom he communicated his invention. Mr. Byrom first taught shorthand at Manchester, but afterwards
removed to London during the winter months; and not only had great success as a teacher, but became distinguished as a man of
general learning. In 1723 he was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society, and communicated to that learned body two letters; one
containing some remarks on the elements of shorthand by Samuel Jeake, esq., which was printed in the Philosophical Transactions,
No. 488; and another, in the same volume, with remarks on Mr. Lodwick's alphabet. At length the family estate at Kersall
devolved to him by the death of his elder brother, Mr. Edward Byrom, without issue; after which accession of fortune he began
to relax from teaching, and passed the remainder of his days in the enjoyment of the quiet comforts of domestic life in the country.
He died at Manchester on the 28th of September 1763, in the seventy-second year of his age. As the general tenor of his life was
innocent and innoffensive, so he bore his last illness with resignation and cheerfulness. The great truths of Christianity had made,
from his earliest years, a deep impression on his mind, and hence it was that he had a peculiar pleasure in employing his pen upon
serious subjects.
Besides the pastoral before mentioned, and the two letters in the Philosophical Transactions, he wrote—“An Epistle to a Gentleman
of the Temple,” 1749; “Enthusiasm,” a poem, 1751; “The Contest, in which is exhibited a preface in favour of blank verse, with an
experiment of it in an Ode on the British Country Life, by Roger Comberbach, esq.; an Epistle from Mr. Byrom to Mr. Comber, in
defence of rhyme ; and an Eclogue, by Mr. C., in reply to Mr. Byrom : ” Chester, 1755, 8vo. “Universal Short-hand ; or the way of
writing English in the most easy, concise, regular, and beautiful manner : ” Manchester, 1767, 8vo. “Miscellaneous Poems” (containing
the verses spoken extempore at the meeting of a Club ; the Astrologer ; the Pond ; Contentment, or the Happy Workman ; most of his
Tales and Fables, and the paraphrase on the 23d Psalm, entitled a Divine Pastoral), Manchester, 1773, 2 vols. 8vo; 1814, 2 vols. 12mo.
In his lines “On the Patron of England,” in a letter to Lord Willoughby, president of the Society of Antiquaries, he contends for the
non-existence of St. George of Cappadocia, or any other George, as patron Saint of England, by the argument that the English were con-
verted by Pope Gregory I. who sent over St. Augustine for that purpose ; and he conceives that, in the ancient Fasti, Georgius was
erroneously set down for Gregorius, and that George nowhere occurs, as patron, until the reign of Edward III. He calls upon Willis,
Stukely, Ames, and Pegge, and also on the Society of Antiquaries at large, for a consideration of the question, Whether England’s patron
was a knight or a pope.” This challenge was answered by Mr. Pegge, in his “Observations on the History of St. George,” in the 5th vol.
of the Archologia, and Byrom [or rather his jeu d'esprit was confuted. The “Three Black Crows" forms a happy specimen of the playful-
ness of Mr. Byrom's muse, and his facility of versification.*
SAMUEL OCDEN, D.D., Woodwardian Professor of Geology in the University of Cambridge, was the son of Mr. Thomas
Ogden, a dyer of Manchester, and born on the 28th of July 1716. He was educated at the Free Grammar School of Manchester,
where he laid the foundation of that extreme grammatical accuracy for which he was so much distinguished. In 1733 he proceeded
to the University of Cambridge, and was admitted a poor scholar of King's College, whence he removed for a Manchester exhibition
to St. John's, in August 1736. In the following year he took his degree of bachelor of arts; and, on the 24th of March 1739,
was elected fellow of St. John’s College. He was ordained deacon at Chester in June, 1740; and in November 1741 was admitted
master of arts, and received priest's orders at Buckden Palace, in November the same year, from the bishop of Lincoln. In 1744
he was elected master of the Free Grammar School of Halifax, in Yorkshire, and was appointed by Dr. Legh, the vicar of that church,
to the perpetual curacies first of Coley, and afterwards of Elland, which last he held to the year 1762. In 1748 he became
1. Of the “Private Journal and Literary Remains of John Byrom,” year he died. It is hoped that a fourth vol. will ere long complete
three vols. have been printed for the Chetham Society, under the his remains, by reprinting many of his poetical productions, with
editorship (chiefly) of the late Dr. Parkinson. The third vol. brings the addition of some which remain concealed in his short-hand
Byrom's diary down to the year 1763, in the September of which MSS.—H.
pumrºn ºf Salton–glandster paris). A 409
bachelor of divinity; in 1753 he resigned the mastership of the grammar school, and went to reside at Cambridge, where he
accepted the sequestration of St. Sepulchre's Church, as a convenient situation for the exercise of his ministry; and, at the ensuing
commencement, in July, was created doctor of divinity. The duke of Newcastle, who was chancellor of the University, having
been present at the exercise he performed for the degree, was so much satisfied with it, that he soon after presented him with the
vicarage of Damerham, in Wiltshire, which was tenable with his fellowship. The doctor took an early occasion for expressing his
gratitude for so honourable a mark of the duke's favour, by the dedication of two sermons preached before the University on the
29th of May and the 22d of June 1758. On the death of Dr. Chapman, master of St. John's College, in 1763, he, with others,
offered himself as a candidate, but did not succeed. In 1764, he was appointed Woodwardian professor, an office which he had no
other reason for accepting than to keep up his connection with the university, having never studied the science. In 1766, he
obtained the consent of the duke of Newcastle to exchange the living of Damerham for the rectory of Stansfield, in Suffolk, on the
presentation of the Lord Chancellor; and in the month of June, the same year, was presented to the rectory of Lawford, in Essex,
by the master and fellows of his college, which two livings he held till his death. In the year 1771 the regius professorship of
divinity, a situation for which, of all the members of the university, his learning, accuracy, and powers of latinity best qualified
him, became vacant by the death of Dr. Rutherforth. On this occasion he was universally looked up to ; and the successful
candidate, Dr. Watson, with his accustomed liberality, offered to waive his pretensions in Dr. Ogden's favour, but the age of
exertion and activity was past —he was become plethoric, and a complication of disorders was gradually sinking him to the grave,
though he continued occasionally to preach, with great energy and effect, to the last year but one of his life. Having been seized,
as he was stepping into his carriage, with a paralytic fit, he waited in daily, but calm expectation, of a second, the accession of
which proved fatal. He died, March 22, 1778, in the sixty-second year of his age, and was buried on the south side of the
communion table, in St. Sepulchre's church, of which he had the cure, and where he preached most of his published sermons. The
following inscription was erected to his memory —“SAMUEL OGDEN, S.T.P., Natus July 28° 1716, Obiit Martii 22° 1778.” In
common life there was a real or apparent rusticity attending Dr. Ogden's address, which disgusted those who were strangers to his
character, but this prejudice soon wore off, as their intimacy with him increased ; and, notwithstanding the sternness, and even
ferocity, he would occasionally throw into his countenance, he was in truth one of the most tender-hearted and humane men ever
known. To those of his relatives who required his assistance, he was remarkably kind in his life, and in the legacies he left them at
his death. His father and mother, who both lived to an extreme old age, owed almost their whole support to his piety. Soon after
the death of his father, in 1766, he wrote a Latin epitaph to his memory, and caused it to be fixed on a marble tablet in the Collegiate
Church of Manchester. Gilbert Wakefield says, “I heard Dr. Ogden preach most of those discourses which were afterwards made public.
His person, manner, and character of composition, were exactly suited to each other. He exhibited a large black scowling grisly figure,
a ponderous body, with a lowering visage, embrowned by the horrors of a sable periwig. His voice was growling and morose; and
his sentences desultory, tart, and Snappish ; and his uncivilised appearance and bluntness of manner were the grand obstacles to his
rise in the church. The duke of Newcastle would have brought him to court to prefer him, but found, as he expressed it, that the
doctor was not a producible man.” “His sermons are interspersed with remarks eminently brilliant and acute, but too epigrammatic
in their close. They display that perfect propriety and purity of English diction, that chastised terseness of composition, which
have scarcely been equalled by any writer. Like Cicero, he wants nothing to complete his meaning; like Demosthenes, he can
suffer no deduction without essential injury to the sentence. He was a good Scholar, a liberal-minded Christian, and an honest
man.” His method of preaching, exactly adapted to his concise and pointed sentences, was strikingly impressive. It was his con-
stant practice, in the opening of his discourses, and occasionally afterwards, to sink into something like negligence in his mode of
delivery ; by which artifice he gave an effect and energy to the sublime and more pathetic parts, not to be fully described by those who
have heard him, and not to be conceived by those who have not. In short, as a preacher, he was an original never yet
safely imitated, and never safe to be imitated. As a writer he is above all praise. Having formed his style with
the purest taste, and on the best models, just before that tide of affectation and pedantry broke in, which has
already half-barbarised our language, the construction of his sentences is simple and perspicuous; his choice of words
curious and happy, yet often wrought up to the highest pitch of Sublimity. He was one of those gifted orators who equally
attract the learned and the illiterate, who are heard with the same admiration and delight in the pulpit of a university, or by a
congregation of peasants. Though an excellent classical Scholar, a scientific divine, and a proficient in the Oriental languages,
he was said, by those who best knew him, to have read much, rather than many authors. His severe devotion to accuracy never
permitted him to wander far over the fields of general literature. What he attempted, he mastered; what he understood at all, he
understood perfectly. His Arabic books he left to Mr. Craven of St. John's, the Arabic professor, who very disinterestedly refused
the residuary legateeship which Dr. Ogden had long designed for him. Dr. Halifax, bishop of St. Asaph, was a passionate admirer
and close imitator of the doctor. They were in company during the French war of 1756, and the conversation turning on the
politics of the day, mention was made of the recent capture of some town ; Halifax inquired “who had taken it 7” As this question
implied the utmost ignorance of the state of the war, and all its circumstances, Ogden, shocked at such inattention to public trans-
actions, lifted up his eyes, turned away his face with disdain, and growled, “What an idiot ” This furnishes no bad specimen of
the doctor's plainness of rebuke. One of his singularities was a fondness for good cheer, with an excessive appetite; and his failing,
an immoderate indulgence of it. The following anecdote of his epicurism is related by a gentleman who was with him at St.
John's :—The cook having spoiled a dish, the doctor was appointed to fine him ; and he imposed three cucumbers at their first
appearance, which were paid, and all devoured by Ogden himself. On the death of George II. and the accession of George III., the
doctor furnished three copies of verses—the first in Latin, the second in English, and the last in Arabic. Of these the Latin copy
only appears to have been preserved and published. These three versions provoked the following, from an unknown writer —
“When Ogden, his prosaic verse
In Latin numbers drest,
The Roman language prov'd too weak
To stand the critic's test.
“In English rhyme he next essayed
To show he’d some pretence,
But, ah rhyme only would not do,
They still expected sense.
“Enraged, the Doctor swore he'd place
On critics no reliance ;
So wrapt his thoughts in Arabic,
And bade them all defiance.”
T}r. Ogden wrote “A Sermon on 1 Thess. v. 13.” 1758, 4to ; “Accession Sermon on Deut. iv. 6 ° 1758, 4to ; “Ten Sermons on the
Efficacy of Prayer and Intercession,” Camb. 1770, 8vo; “Twenty-three Sermons on the Ten Commandments,” Camb. 1777, 8vo;
“Fourteen Sermons on the Articles of the Christian Faith,” 1777, 8vo. -
CHARLES WHITE, F.R.S., etc., an eminent surgeon and author, was the son of Dr. Thomas White of Manchester, and born
on the 4th of October 1728. After having received an excellent classical education under the tuition of the Rev. Mr. Russell of Man-
3 G
410 QThe #istory of Lancashire.
chester, he was placed with his father, at an early age, and devoted to the profession of surgery. In this situation he evinced great
activity and talent ; and in due time was sent to attend the lectures and hospital practice of the London professors. While in the
metropolis, he had the good fortune to become acquainted with John Hunter, then engaged in similar pursuits; and afterwards con-
tracted a friendship with that celebrated man, which ended only with his life. Mr. White devoted his time most diligently
to the acquirement of professional knowledge, scarcely allowing himself to partake of those amusements, so alluring to a young
mind, with which London abounds. He afterwards passed a winter in Edinburgh ; and having availed himself to the utmost
extent of these opportunities of professional improvement, joined his father at Manchester, and bid fair to become an eminent prac-
titioner. On the erection of the Manchester Infirmary, in 1752, Mr. White was elected one of its first surgeons; and continued for many
years a zealous and attached servant of that noble institution. In 1761 he was elected a fellow of the Royal Society, and afterwards
became a member of the American Philosophical Society of Philadelphia, and of several other learned societies, founded for the
promotion of science. In 1770 he presented to the Royal Society an “Account of the Topical Application of Sponge in the
Stoppage of Haemorrhage.” The difficulty of tying vessels when they were numerous, the want of permanency in the ligature which
occasionally occurred, especially when the parts were soft and tender, and the pain during and subsequent to the operation, induced
him to try the sponge in the greater operations, where the arteries were large and numerous; and the experiment succeeded beyond
his expectation. This method is now generally superseded by the use of the tenaculum, a little instrument by which the arteries
are drawn out, and exposed for the application of the ligature, which is effected without pain or difficulty. Still, however, cases
do now and then occur, where the use of the sponge, on Mr. White's principle, is had recourse to with much advantage. In 1771,
he published a volume containing cases in surgery, by which his reputation was widely extended, and he was deservedly considered
at the head of his profession in the north of England. Some of these cases having occurred so early as 1748, show the judgment
with which he decided, and the skill with which he operated, when a very young practitioner. Early in 1773 he wrote a treatise
on the management of pregnant women both before and after confinement. This was dedicated to Dr. Hunter, and perhaps few
medical books have been productive of more important reform in practice, or of more safety and comfort to the subjects for whose
'benefit it was composed. Nature was restored to the free exercise of her operations, and officious ignorance was prevented from
converting into fatal disease what was benevolently and wisely designed to be a process scarcely ever attended with danger. In
1781 he was nominated one of the first vice-presidents of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, after its regular
organisation in the winter of that year; and the active part he took in promoting the views of that institution is best evinced by
the papers supplied by him to the printed Memoirs. They are “On the Regeneration of Animal Substances; ” “On the Natural
History of the Cow, as far as is relative to her giving milk, particularly for the use of man; ” “Observations on a Thigh-bone
of uncommon length ; ” “An account of three different kinds of Trees, which are likely to prove a great acquisition to this
kingdom, both in point of profit, and as trees for Ornament and shade.” Besides these, he also presented to the Society “An Essay
On the Gradation in Man and different Animals,” but this, on account of its length, he withdrew, and printed separately in a
quarto volume. Mr. White's professional engagements afforded him little leisure for the pursuit of general science or literature;
nevertheless, he was much attached to botany, and indulged his taste by forming a collection of forest-trees at his country villa, at
Sale, in Cheshire, which were regularly and beautifully arranged, and highly merit the attention of every lover of that science.
In 1783 an institution was formed in Manchester for the purpose of giving lectures on several branches of literature and the arts,
and for improving the education of young persons intended for mercantile engagements; in which Mr. White, aided by his son,
undertook the anatomical department, and filled the situation in a highly creditable manner. For many years he continued
engaged in a very respectable and extensive practice, and attended to the discharge of his duties as surgeon of the infirmary with
the greatest assiduity and practical success; but the advances of old age made an evident impression on his constitution. In 1803
he was attacked with epidemic ophthalmia, and suffered extreme and long-continued pain in the left eye, the sight of which was
left permanently injured. . He still, however, continued to practise, and even to perform operations; but in 1812 the right eye
also became diseased, total loss of vision ensued, and his general health rapidly declined. From the month of October to the day
of his death he was wholly confined to his bed, and his mental faculties were considerably impaired, though, at times, he enjoyed
intervals of unclouded and even vigorous judgment. At length, on the 20th of February, 1813, in the 85th year of his age, he
finished a long life of unremitting exertion and public usefulness, and was interred at Ashton-upon-Mersey, where the following
tablet to his memory was erected in the church —
“Near this place lieth the body of CHARLES WHITE, Esq., Member of the Corporation of Surgeons and Fellow of the Royal Society,
who, after rendering himself eminent in his profession for the space of sixty years, by a dexterity and extent of knowledge scarcely
exceeded by any of his contemporaries, retired to the enjoyment of rural and domestic felicity in the society of his family and friends,
at Sale, within this parish ; he died on the 20th of February 1813, Aged 84.” " .
Mr. White was admirably fitted, both by his bodily constitution and by the qualities of his mind, for the successful exercise
of the profession in which he was engaged. Even in advanced age he was capable of performing, without fatigue, very long journeys
on horseback, and of bearing, without injury to his health, exposure to the most inclement weather. He required little sleep, and
was, during the greater part of his life, an early riser. His mind was never unemployed; and when not actually engaged in
attendance on his patients, he was generally occupied in Some professional research, He had a complete disdain for everything
like empyrical concealment; and, when he had any capital operation to perform at the Infirmary, he invited most of the respectable
surgeons of this and the neighbouring towns to be the spectators of his practice. As an operator he was steady and collected, and
prepared, both by the natural firmness of his mind and the accuracy of his anatomical knowledge, to encounter, without dismay,
those unforeseen difficulties which sometimes occur to the most sagacious surgeons. Of his manner in the apartments of the sick,
it would not be easy to speak too favourably; it was singularly calculated to inspire confidence; for he evinced, by the attention
he gave to the case, and by the promptitude and firmness with which he decided, that he was intent on employing all the resources
of his skill and knowledge. In the common intercourse of life, he was an agreeable and instructive companion, abounding with
anecdote ; and, having mixed with the higher circles of Society, his manners and feelings were those of a well-bred gentleman.
Even for those branches of knowledge which he had not cultivated, he entertained a proper respect; and his mind was awake to
all those sources of casual information, which, to one extensively engaged in medical or surgical practice, must often supply the
want of opportunities of retired and undisturbed study."
JOHN WHITAKER, B.D., F.A.S., a very respectable author and antiquary, was the son of Mr. James Whitaker of
Manchester, and born on the 27th of April 1735. At the age of ten he was placed at the Free Grammar School of Manchester,
from whence, in 1752, he went exhibitioner to Oxford at ten pounds per annum, and was entered of Brazennose College. On the
2d March 1753 he was elected scholar of Corpus Christi College, and took his degree of bachelor of arts in 1756. It appears that
Mr. Whitaker was a young man of a very singular disposition. His associates were few, as it was supposed from the narrowness
of his circumstances. He regularly kept the fast of Lent, and that of every Friday throughout the year, till supper-time, when he
usually drew the attention of all who were at the table with him, by eating double or treble commons. He was, from the
beginning to the end of his time at college, a very hard student, and the character of his mind very soon decided itself in literary
composition. He proceeded master of arts on the 27th of February 1759, received deacon's orders from Dr. John Hume, bishop of
* A “Memoir of Charles White, with reference to his pro- printed in the Memoirs of the Manchester Literary and Philo-
fessional life and writings,” by Thomas Henry, F.R.S. etc., is sophical Society, 2d Series, Vol. iii. pp. 33-51. –H.
#umurth ºf $alfort—ſºlatrijegter 33arígſ. 411
Oxford, in the cathedral church of that city, on Sunday, March 2, 1760; and was ordained priest on the 12th of October, in the
same year, by Dr. Edmund Keene, bishop of Chester. On the 21st of January 1763 he was elected fellow of his college, and on
the 1st of July 1767 became bachelor of divinity. . He afterwards served during many years the curacy of Bray, in Berkshire, for
a son of Bishop Berkeley, of tar-water memory, with not a little of which nauseous fluid he was dosed, upon slight ailments by
the bishop's widow. He was also subsequently curate of Newton, in Lancashire; and from this period, until his induction to
Ruan Lanyhorne, with the exception of his nomination to Berkeley chapel, nothing further is known of his church preferments.
In 1771 he published his “History of Manchester,”—a dissertation rather on British and Roman antiquities than a local history;
full of bold imagination and independent sentiment, but in which, perhaps, there is to be perceived as much of fancy, conj ecture.
and hypothesis, as of deliberate investigation, or just and correct opinion. It is, however, replete with fine passages, and exhibits
a force of expression rather uncommon in works of that order. The second volume followed in 1775, but, although four books
were originally promised, only two are completed, embracing the British, Roman, and Saxon periods. In 1772 he wrote his
“Genuine history of the Britons asserted,” containing a refutation of Macpherson’s “Introduction to the History of Great Britain
and Ireland.” In November 1773 he was appointed morning preacher of Berkeley Chapel, London, but was removed from the
situation in less than two months, upon which he published, his “State of the Case between Mr. Whitaker and Mr. Hughes
relative to the Preachership of Berkeley Chapel,” wherein he relates Some remarkable particulars, and declares himself unaiterably
determined to carry the matter into Westminster Hall. It has been generally represented, that the fervour of his resentment in
this matter threw him off his guard, and induced him to use expressions so indiscreet, that “The Case” was, by the Court of
King's Bench, considered a libel; but this is not strictly correct, for whatever might have been the nature of the grievance towards
Mr. Whitaker, I am assured the suit was never carried into court.
During his residence in London he had an opportunity of conversing with several of our most celebrated writers, among whom
were Johnson and Gibbon; Johnson and Whitaker were not much attached ; both strong in understanding, equally tenacious of
opinion, and impassioned in conversation, it was not probable they would amicably coalesce on all occasions, and on the Ossianic
controversy they were decidedly hostile. The intimacy, between Gibbon and Whitaker was closer; as a proof of which, the
manuscript of the first volume of the “Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire” was submitted to the latter for his inspection. On
this occasion, it is necessary to record a piece of meanness on the part of the Roman historian, which does not impress us with a
high idea of his literary honesty. Afraid of Mr. Whitaker's censure, Gibbon, whose tenets were deistical, had, on Submitting the
manuscript to his friend, suppressed a chapter likely to give umbrage to public opinion, and, on the return of the papers, replaced it
before going to press; and Mr. Whitaker, with great astonishment and indignation, first read the offensive passage when the work
appeared sometime after in print, and every opportunity of preventing its consequences had gone by. That Gibbon should have shrunk
from his indignant eye may well be imagined, when it is related that Mr. Whitaker's independent principles were, near that time,
marked by his refusal of a living of considerable value, because it was offered by an Unitarian patron. Of his integrity, however,
some recompense was now at hand; and on the 23d of August 1777 he succeeded, as fellow of Corpus, on the presentation of the
president and scholars, to the rectory of Ruan Lanyhorne, in Cornwall, one of the most valuable livings in the gift of the college.
Here it might have been expected that retirement and leisure would have greatly favoured the pursuits of literature; but the
rectory was for several years no tranquil seat of the muses. That pleasant seclusion became a scene of strife and contest, arising
out of a tithe cause in which Mr. Whitaker was ultimately successful. That his literary pursuits had been so early interrupted was
the subject of general regret. But the conscientious minister looked with a deeper concern to the Spiritual welfare of his flock.
He saw, with sorrow, their aversion from his preaching, their indifference to his instruction, their repugnance to his authority;
and he laboured more abundantly, till, after a few years, he had the Satisfaction of perceiving a visible alteration in the behaviour
of the principal parishioners, and the re-establishment of a mutual good understanding. His cordial and familiar manner, indeed,
was always pleasing to those whom prejudice, had not armed against him ; and in proportion as they became acquainted with his
kind disposition and the transitoriness of his resentments, and, after injuries, his promptness to forgive and anxious wish to be
forgiven, they endeavoured more and more to cultivate his friendship, and at length loved and revered him as a father. Harmony
eventually took up her abode in Ruan, and for twenty-two years Mr. Whitaker was universally beloved by his whole parish ; and so
much did the inhabitants of the district rely upon him, that they never took any momentous step without asking his advice and
concurrence, which, if he approved of their plans, he always cheerfully gave. In a contest, in 1787, between the lord of the manor
of Manchester and the inhabitants, Mr. Whitaker was singularly instrumental in the assertion of the rights of the town against
the assumed powers of the lord, and exerted himself very effectually in elucidating the various charters granted by the royal
authority and the different lords of the manor, in a series of correspondence between himself and a committee' appointed to
conduct the inquiry. For his attention in this particular he received the thanks of the town, and was presented with a handsome
silver cup, on which was engraved the following inscription —
“Presented, A.D. 1793, by the Committee appointed A.D. 1787, at a Meeting of the Inhabitants of Manchester publicly assembled,
to defend the legal rights of the town against the encroachments of the Lord of the Manor, to the Reverend John Whitaker, B.D., Rector
of Ruan Lanyhorne, in Cornwall, as a Testimony of their Respect for his memorable services rendered to them and the Town, whilst
discharging the duties of their Institution.”
He lived to enjoy his rectory more than thirty years, and died on Sunday, the 30th of October 1808, in the 74th year of his
age, and was buried within the communion rails of his own church." His memory is preserved by the following inscription —
“Here lieth the body of the Rev. John Whitaker, B.D., who was upwards of thirty years Rector of this Parish.”
Mr. Whitaker's talents as an author were very versatile, though his chief excellence will be recognised in antiquarian research.
He was, in many respects, a fanciful writer ; and the extraordinary flights he occasionally takes into the regions of imagination have
seldom been paralleled, never, I believe, exceeded. The opinions of the different literary gossips of his day on the two volumes of the
History of Manchester are very curious and amusing. In 1771, the year in which the work appeared, Cole says, when speaking
of Stukeley—“I must truly own, that, notwithstanding the doctor's real and standard merit, his fanciful, ideal, and dogmatical
positions are so destructive of truth and exact history, that he is very blamable as an antiquary. Such another kind of genius is
arising in the Manchester historian, who, I think, where he is making an apology for Doctor Stukeley's aérial way of writing, had
an eye to his own at the same time.” Again, in 1775, in a letter to Horace Walpole—“Have you looked into the History of
Manchester It is lively, and wrote with great spirit. The author is a Drawcamsir : Mr. Carte, Mr. Hume, and many other
respectable names, meet with no quarter from him.” To which Walpole replies—“I bought the first volume of Manchester, but
could not read it : it was much too learned for me, and seemed rather an account of Babel than Manchester; I mean in point of
* During his convalescence from an illness, which had, for a “Sir, The occurrence of poor Mr. Whitaker's death on Sunday
time, deprived him of the use of his pen, Mr. Whitaker adopted last, 30th of October, occasions the return of the proof-sheet of his
the resolution of giving to the public his life of St. Neot. He St. Neot uncorrected, which you will therefore have the goodness
wrote to Mr. Stockdale, of Pall Mall, on the 13th of August 1808, to get done.—I am, sir, etc. THOMAS J. HAMLEY.”
on the subject, who recommended a cheap edition in 8vo. Mr. 4 & * , () 35
Whitaker very regularly returned the proofs, corrected by himself, Ruan Lanyhome, Nov. 1, 1808.
as far as page 209, which sheet was sent back by his nephew-in-law, The remaining sheets were corrected by Mr. Stockdale, who
with the following note :— added the index, and the work appeared in the following year.
412 Ǻr £igturn ºf 3Lancashire.
antiquity. To be sure it is very kind in an author to promise one the history of a country town, and give one a circumstantial
account of the antediluvian world into the bargain. But I am simple and ignorant, and desire no more than I pay for. And then
for my progenitors, Noah and the Saxons, I haye no curiosity about them.” There are also some caustic remarks, perhaps rather
too severe, in the volume of Collier's Works (Tim Bobbin), under the signature of “Muscipula Senior.” That he should have
published so little in the proper line of his profession is, perhaps, to be regretted ; what he has written in divinity being so
deservedly esteemed. In criticism (where, writing anonymously, he would probably have written with less restraint), he appears
for the most part candid and good-natured; not sparing of censure, nor yet lavish of applause ; and affording, in numerous instances,
the most agreeable proofs of genuine benevolence. Even in the instance of Gibbon, where he has been thought severe beyond
example, we have a large mixture of sweet with the bitter. He was a contributor to the periodical works of his day, and gave
many valuable articles to the English Review, the British Critic, and the Antijacobin. His private character was that of an amiable
man ; whether among his parishioners we remember his unaffected earnestness of preaching, his humility in conversing with the
poorest cottagers, his sincerity in assisting them with his advice, his tenderness in offering them consolation, and his charity in
relieving their distresses; or, in the privacy of his domestic circle, we examine his excellence as a husband, a father, and a friend,
he has the strongest claim to the high distinction of an exemplary Christian and a good man. It is true, that to the same warmth
of temper is to be attributed, at times, an irritability destructive of social comfort, and an impetuosity that brooked no opposition ;
these were in part also to be traced to his ignorance of the world, and to his simplicity in believing others like himself—precisely
what they seemed to be ;-but his general good-humour, his hospitality, and his convivial pleasantry, were Surely enough to atone
for those sudden bursts of passion which betrayed his human frailty, and to make amends for an uneveness of temper which was
purely constitutional. Mr. Whitaker married Miss Jane Tregenan, a young lady of an ancient Cornish family, by whom he had
three daughters: Jane, who died unmarried; Sarah ; and Anne, married, 27th September 1821, to Dr. Richard Taunton, a very
respectable and scientific physician of Truro.
He wrote and published the first two volumes of the “History of Manchester, in four books.” Vol. i. London, 1771, 4to ; 2d
edition, with additions and corrections, London, 1773, 2 vols. 8vo; vol. ii. London, 1775, 4to. “The Genuine History of the Britons
asserted, in a full and candid Refutation of Mr. Macpherson's Introduction to the History of Great Britain and Ireland,” London, 1772,
8vo; “Case between Mr. Whitaker and Mr. Hughes,” etc., London, 1773; “A Course of Sermons upon Death, Judgment, Heaven, and
Hell,” London, 1783, 8vo; “Mary Queen of Scots vindicated,” London, 1787, 3 vols. 8vo; 2d edition, 1790, 3 vols. 8vo; “Gibbon's
History of the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire, in vols. 4, 5, and 6, 4to, reviewed,” London, 1791, 8vo; “Course of Hannibal
over the Alps ascertained,” London, 1794, 2 vols. 8vo; “The real Origin of Government,” London, 1795, 8vo; “Life of St. Neot, the
oldest of all the Brothers of King Alfred,” London, 1809, 8vo. Besides these, we have the “History of the Ancient Cathedral of
Cornwall; “Supplement to Polwhele's Antiquities of Cornwall; ” “Origin of Arianism ;” and “The Introduction to Flindell’s Bible.”
He also projected and entered upon “The Military History of the Romans in Britain ;” “Notes on Shakspeare;” “Illustrations of the
Bible ;” “The general and genuine History of Oxford ;” and “The real Origin of London critically examined;” all yet unpublished; in
prosecution of the last two of which, his visit to the metropolis, and great exertions in procuring information, brought on the debility
which ended in paralysis, and eventually caused his death.
HENRY CLARKE, LL.D., professor of history, geography, and experimental philosophy, at the Royal Military College,
Sandhurst, was the son of Mr. Thomas Clarke of Salford, near Manchester, and born in the year 1743. At the age of thirteen he
evinced an extraordinary talent and propensity for mathematical and Scientific knowledge; and towards his future support in life
commenced his station in the world as an assistant at the academy of Mr. Grimshaw, at Leeds, in Yorkshire, where he cultivated
and extended most favourably his scientific and literary acquirements, and obtained the acquaintance and friendship of several
eminent characters, among whom was the late Dr. Priestley. He shortly after entered into partnership, in the establishment of a
seminary, with Mr. Robert Pulman of Sedbergh, who united the mathematician with the elegant penman, and also with Mr.
Frederick Williams of Berlin, a celebrated classical scholar; and, during the connection, commenced his Tabulae Linguarum, the
Rationale of Circulating Numbers, and the Practical Perspective, which, a few years afterwards, he published : a short period,
however, elapsed before he separated from this partnership, for the advantage of travelling about in his own country and on the
continent. Mr. Clarke next practised land-surveying; but from the personal labour of the employment, returned to what was
more congenial to his mind, an academical establishment, and was appointed prelector in mathematics and experimental philosophy,
at the New College of Arts and Sciences, at Manchester—in which institution Dr. Barnes, in biblical and Oriental literature; Dr.
Thomas Bew, on the belles lettres; and Mr. Thomas Henry, on chemistry, were his colleagues—the earl of Derby being president,
and Dr. Percival Vice-president; but these combined duties proving too much for his constitution, he resigned his appointment.
At this time he was extending his purchases towards a complete collection of philosophical instruments, and afterwards changed the
station of his academical establishment in philosophical lecturing from Manchester to Bristol, where he met with the greatest
success, by uniting the arrangement of a museum and lectures with that of public and private tuition. He continued at Bristol till
the year 1802, when a proposal from government was made to him of the appointment of professor and lecturer of history, geography,
and experimental philosophy, at the Royal Military College, first instituted at Marlow, in Buckinghamshire, and afterwards removed
to Sandhurst, near Bagshot. He was now complimented, by the university of Edinburgh, with the degree of doctor of laws; and
having honourably completed his engagement of fifteen years with the Military College, was therefrom inadequately provided for by
a small annuity, on the 5th of July 1817. He was seized with apoplexy on the 29th of April 1818, and, continuing in a speechless
state, died the next day at his house, at Islington, in the 76th year of his age. Dr. Clarke was a man of uncommon exertion and
unremitting assiduity, with the quickest perceptive faculties. He was well acquainted with the Hebrew, Greek, Latin, Spanish,
Portuguese, Italian, and French languages; he completely understood the mathematics in their highest branches ; was both an
excellent penman and draughtsman, with an extraordinary knowledge of perspective ; an expert mechanic ; an author; and a
compiler of, and contributor to, various respectable scientific and literary works, both standard and periodical. As a father, he
was kind, intuitive, and indulgent; as a friend, sociable, faithful, and affectionate; and as a Christian, sincere, uniform, and
unassuming. He left a widow, to whom he was united fifty-two years, and a family of two sons and four daughters. His elegant
and very choice collection of philosophical instruments, which he used in his lectures, and his select library of Scientific books,
were sold by public auction.
Dr. Clarke wrote “A Treatise on Perspective,” 8vo; “The Rationale of Circulating Numbers, with the investigation of all the Rules
and peculiar processes used in that part of Decimal Arithmetic, etc. etc.” London, 8vo, 1777; “Tabulae Linguarum, or concise Grammars
of the Latin, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, French, and Norman Languages, Part I., 12mo, being the first part of a set of Tables exhibiting
at sight the Declensions of Nouns and Conjugations of Verbs ; with other Grammatical requisites essential to the reading and speaking of
the following Languages—viz. Latin, Celtic or Erse, Sclavonic, Hebrew, Ethiopic, Tartarian, and Chinese, with an Explanation of the
Lingua Franca, and the pretended modern Egyptian or Cant Language. The work to be complete in eight numbers.” “A Dissertation
on the Summation of infinite converging Series with Algebraic Divisions ; translated from the Latin of A. M. Lorgna, Professor of Mathe-
matics in the Military College of Verona, with an Appendix containing a Reply and Remarks to Mr. Lembden, on the same subject,”
London, 4to, 1779; dedicated to Charles Hutton, esq., F.R.S., Professor of Mathematics to the Royal Military College of Woolwich. “An
* It is understood that for this criticism a learned antiquary of the neighbourhood furnished the material to Collier, who only
supplied the abuse and humour. -
#umbrell of Salfort—fianchester parish. 413
Essay on Usefulness of Mathematical Learning,” 8vo; “An Introduction to Geography,” 12mo; “The Seaman's Desiderata, or Concise
Practical Rules for computing the apparent time at Sea, the latitude from double Solar Altitudes, and the longitude from Lunar Observa-
tions, with a simple and expeditious method of clearing the Lunar distances from the effects of parallax and refraction,” Lond, 1800,
4to ; “A new, concise, and correct Operation for clearing the apparent Distances of the Moon from a Star or the Sun, of the effects of
refraction or parallax, fully exemplified,” Lond, 4to, 1800; “Animadversions on Dr. Dickson's Translation of Carnot's Theory of Infini-
tesimal Calculus,” Lond, 1801, 8vo; “Virgil re-vindicated, being an Exposition of Bishop Horsley's Tract on the two Seasons of Honey,”
Lond. 1809, 4to ; “An English Translation from the original Greek, of the genuine Works of Aratus the Cilician—viz, the Phoenomena,
the Diosemea, and the Prognostica; and also of the Notes of Germanicus, Avienus, and others; accompanied with two Stereographic
Celestial Planispheres, carefully adapted to the subjects of those poems, and accurately projected to the positions of the Colures, the
Equatorial Poles, Stellar R.A. and Des, &c., for the age in which the author lived,” Lond. 4to.
JOHN DALTON 4 was born at Eaglesfield, in Cumberland, 23 miles south-west of Cockermouth, on the 5th September 1766,
in a small cottage on the estate of the family, which had come into their possession through his maternal grandmother. His
father, Joseph Dalton, was very poor, earning a scanty subsistence by weaving common country goods (his wife selling paper,
ink, and quills), but he seems to have been a man of some vigour of mind, as he taught his sons mathematics, giving them such an
education at least as is included in mensuration and navigation. His elder brother dying childless, he then succeeded to the
estate and gave up weaving. . By a similar event the property (about 60 acres), long afterwards came into the possession of Dr.
Dalton. His mother, Deborah Greenup, was the third daughter of a family of one son, and seven daughters, living at Greenrigg,
Caldbeck. The son, a barrister, practised in London till he inherited Greenrigg, to which he retired, living there to an advanced
age, and leaving the property to his unmarried sister Ruth, aunt of Dr. Dalton, who left the estate of Greenrigg equally between
Jonathan and John Dalton and their cousin George Bewley. The estate was small, and sold in 1817-18 for only £750. Jonathan
Dalton, the grandfather, joined the Society of Friends, and the family remaining in the society doubtless greatly influenced the
habits and character of Dr. Dalton, who continued a member of the society all his life. Joseph Dalton and Deborah Greenup had
three children—Jonathan, John, and Mary. The two sons, partly taught by their father, were also sent to Mr. Fletcher, the teacher
of the school belonging to the Society of Friends, held in the meeting-house in Eaglesfield. In this school John remained until
twelve years of age, during which time he must have made great progress, as on leaving school he began immediately to teach.
He always spoke with great admiration of Mr. Fletcher, who lived until Dalton was himself advanced in life. As schoolmaster,
not yet in his teens, Dalton had sometimes difficulty in maintaining order amongst rude lads, many of them older than himself,
who would challenge to fight, and when locked up to learn their tasks broke the windows in revenge. In his active physical work
on the farm, and his more sedentary labour of teaching, he laid the foundations of an active mind and a vigorous well-knit frame,
and thus enjoyed good health to an advanced age. One remarkable characteristic of Dalton, from his earliest years, was great and
unrelaxing diligence, which continued to distinguish him through life; and he held that diligence or the want of it constituted the
main difference as to success amongst men engaged in intellectual pursuits. About the age of ten years, Dalton was fortunate in
meeting with a gentleman of education and property named Robinson, who, with his accomplished wife, greatly aided the mathe-
matical and other studies of Dalton and of another boy in their service. After teaching in the school for about three years, he left
Eaglesfield, and in 1781 became assistant to his cousin George Bewley, who kept a school in Kendal. Here he spent twelve years,
and here his true education began. In Kendal he became acquainted with Mr. Gough, who, though blind from infancy, was pos-
sessed of high Scientific attainments, and is said to have prepared Dr. Whewell and other distinguished wranglers. Dalton spoke
of his intimate acquaintance with Mr. Gough for eight years with grateful acknowledgments; and, besides his instruction and
advice, he had the advantage of the use of his library and Scientific apparatus. From March 1785, his elder brother Jonathan and
he succeeded to their cousin in continuing the school, their sister Mary keeping their house. At first they had to borrow money,
the school producing only about £70 a-year. In 1787, when only twenty-one, Dalton delivered at the school a course of twelvé
lectures on natural philosophy, which included mechanics, optics, pneumatics, astronomy, and the use of the globes. Long before
this he had contributed to the Lady's Diary, and gained several prizes for Solving mathematical problems, etc. He made his own
barometers, thermometers, and other instruments, collected butterflies, and made dried Specimens of plants. His Hortus Sºccus
numbered eleven volumes or more, the first volume being dated 1790. He also made medical experiments on perspiration, etc.
He was still at Kendal in 1793, when Dr. Barnes consulted Mr. Gough as to a suitable teacher of mathematics for the * Manchester
New College,” and on Mr. Gough's recommendation, Dalton was appointed. He lived in the establishment, College Buildings,
Mosley Street, being tutor of mathematics and natural philosophy for six years. In 1794 he had twenty-four, and in 1799 twenty.
two pupils. For some years previous to 1793, he had compiled various “Meteorological Observations and Essays,” which he pub-
lished—his first work—after his coming to Manchester in September 1793. In these Essays, as everywhere in his writings, there
is great rapidity of reasoning, a direct passage from premisses to conclusion. To this work on Meteorology he added little, although
he published a new edition forty years later (in 1834), in which he says it is printed verbatim (adding only a small appendix), “as
I apprehend it contains the germ of most of the ideas which I have since expanded more at large in different eSSays, and which
have been considered as discoveries of some importance.” In October 1794, at the age of twenty-eight, he was elected a member
of the Literary and Philosophical Society of Manchester, having been proposed by Thomas Henry, Dr. Percival, and the celebrated
Robert Owen; and the same month Dalton read his first paper to the Society, of which he was destined to become the honoured head.
The subject of his paper was on his own peculiarity of vision, afterwards called “colour-blindness” and “Daltonism,” though these
are not sufficiently descriptive, Though we cannot suppose that Dalton was not always studious, he gave no results to the public
till March 1799, when he read to the Literary and Philosophical Society, “Experiments and Observations on Rain and Dew,” etc.,
and in April 1799, “Experiments and Observations on the Power of Fluids to conduct Heat.” In May 1800 Dalton was elected
Secretary of the Society, in the place of Dr. William Henry, his co-secretary being the late Dr. Hull. This office Dalton held till
1808, when he became vice-president in place of Dr. Roger. In June that year he read to the society “ Experiments and
Observations on the Heat and Cold produced by the Mechanical Condensation, Saturation, and Rarefaction of Air ;” one important
result stated being that the temperature of air, mechanically compressed to half its volume, was raised 50°. He had ascertained that
gases expand nearly 1-10th of their volume for 50° of heat, or nearly 1-500th of their bulk. He published an English Grammar, the
preface to which is dated in March 1801. In the following October he read a paper to the society, which occupied three days, being
four “Experimental Essays on the Constitution of Mixed Gases; on the Force of Steam or Vapour from Water or other Liquids in
different Temperatures, both in a Torricellian Vacuum and in Air; on Evaporation ; and on the Expansion of Gases by Heat.” His
law of equal expansion of gases was published six months earlier than the similar one of Gay-Lussac. In this paper he showed, in a
plate, that he was accustomed to view gases as composed of definite particles, having drawn each in a different form. In November
1802, he read to the Society an “Experimental Inquiry into the Proportion of the Several Gases or Elastic Fluids constituting the
Atmosphere.” In January 1803 he read an inquiry “On the Tendency of Elastic Fluids to Diffusion through each other.” Dalton
* As a rule, no biographies have been added to those of the late pounder of the atomic theory, and Eaton Hodgkinson, the mathe-
Mr. W. R. Whatton, F.S.A., in this work, and they have been mafician, the great authority all over the world as to the strength
much abridged. But it was felt that any history of Lancashire, or and best form of beams, pillars, etc., of iron and other materials.
of the parish of Manchester, would be very defective, which should Accordingly, by permission of the authors of memoirs of these
omit to notice such men as Dr. Dalton, the discoverer and pro- distinguished men, abridgments of their biographies are given.—H.
414 (Iſiſt #istory of £antagüirº.
considered the result as establishing “this remarkable fact, that a lighter elastic fluid cannot rest upon a heavier, as is the case with
liquids; but they are constantly active in diffusing themselves through each other until an equal equilibrium is effected ; and that
without any regard to their specific gravity, except so far as it accelerates or retards the effect according to circumstances.” In October
1803 he read to the society another investigation “On the Absorption of Gases by Water and other Liquids.” . In this essay he gave a
list of relative weights of twenty-one substances, constituting the first attempt to form a table of atomic weights. In the autumn of
1804 he became an inmate of the family of the Rev. Wm. Johns, a former colleague at the Academy; and in this family he lived
twenty-six years, until Mr. Johns removed to Higher Broughton. In December 1803 he delivered a course of lectures at the Royal
Institution, London; and in April 1807 a similar course in Edinburgh. He lectured again in London in 1809 and 1810, and in
subsequent years. During many years of his residence in Manchester he gave private lessons for very small fees—from 1s. 6d. to
2s. 6d. a lessOn. He made analyses and was consulted by manufacturers, being probably the earliest in the district of the class of
Scientific men called “professional chemists,” who have risen as a necessity of the time, and have chiefly in their hands the connection
of the chemical arts with the science as it progresses. The great discovery of Dalton was what has been termed the “Atomic
Theory,” or the “Law of Definite Proportions.” In Dr. Angus Smith’s “Memoir of Dalton, and History of the Atomic Theory,
up to his time.”—an able and exhaustive work, to which we acknowledge large obligations for the materials of this sketch of the
great philosopher—the state of chemical knowledge on the subject is traced from period to period, and the claims made on
behalf of Dr. Cullen, Bergman, Dr. Bryan Higgins, and William Higgins, in this country, and Richter in Germany, to have
discovered the atomic theory before Dalton, are shown to be unfounded in fact. The constitution of the atmosphere was a favourite
subject with Dalton from 1793; it led him to investigate the gases generally, and his experiments on nitrous gas and oxygen (in
1802) show the method by which he came to believe, and to prove experimentally, the existence of definite and constant proportion.
This seems to have been his first direct entrance into the region of the atomic theory. The idea that all matter is made up of
separate ultimate particles, divisible or indivisible, which was to others a theory, was to Dalton a fact, which he could not conceive
otherwise. Even the air is represented by him as an agglomeration of bodies heaped up like piles of shot. In 1803 he was plainly
verging towards his theory, by inquiring into the relative weights of the ultimate particles of bodies. Having made some advance
in this inquiry, he made it the starting-point of all he advanced on atomic chemistry, and the theory of proportion. He was not
in haste to publish his theory, but told it openly to Dr. Thomson in 1804. This, then, is the date of the complete discovery, as
Dr. Thomson published an abstract of it at once. In his history Dr. Thomson says:–
“Mr. Dalton informed me that the atomic theory first occurred to him during his investigations of olefiant gas and carburetted
hydrogen gas, at that time imperfectly understood, and the constitution of which was first fully developed by Mr. Dalton himself.
It was obvious, from the experiments which he made upon them, that the constituents of both were carbon and hydrogen, and
nothing else. He found further, that if we reckon the carbon in each the same, then carburetted hydrogen contains twice as much
hydrogen as olefiant gas does. This determined him to state the ratios of these constituents in numbers, and to consider the olefiant
gas a compound of one atom of Carbon and One atom of hydrogen, and carburetted hydrogen of one atom of carbon and two atoms
of hydrogen. The idea thus conceived was applied to carbonic oxide, water, ammonia, etc., and numbers were given, representing
the atomic weights of oxygen, azote, etc., deduced from the best analytical experiments which chemistry then possessed.”
His first atomic weights were published in 1803, but he did not publish his “New System of Chemical Philosophy” till 1808.
In this work, after stating various facts as to the particles or atoms of elastic fluids, Dalton adds:–
“In all chemical investigations it has justly been considered an important object to ascertain the relative weights of the simples
which constitute a compound. But unfortunately the inquiry has terminated here; whereas, from the relative weights in the
mass, the relative weights of the ultimate particles or atoms of the bodies might have been inferred, from which their number and
weight in various other compounds would appear, in order to assist and to guide future investigation, and to correct their results.
Now, it is one great object of this work to show the importance and advantage of ascertaining the relative weights of the ultimate
particles, both of Simple and compound bodies, the number of Simple elementary particles which constitute one compound particle, and
the number of less compound particles which enter into the formation of one more compound particle.” - -
Then he gives general rules and formulas, with instances of combination, and adds to his explanation a plate of the “arbitrary
marks or signs chosen to represent the several chemical elements or ultimate particles.” He gives 20 atomic weights and 17
analyses of gases and acids—the result of enormous labour, added to that of the many gaseous analyses. What new ideas did he
produce He found the general chemical opinion of the time as to combination in a state of great uncertainty and confusion. We
have seen the results at which he arrived, and the process :-
1st. By long reflection on the constitution of bodies, especially of gases, he became convinced of the necessity for ultimate
particles, divisible or not so. These particles unite together, and form of course a definite compound. If the smallest part is
definite so is the largest. This is the fundamental law of definite compounds. . 2d. Various numbers of atoms may unite—there
may be one, two, three, or more—there can be no division of atoms. As large bulks are constituted just as small are, so multiple
proportion becomes a law by which bodies are constituted. 3d. Compound bodies constituted as the above unite particle to
particle in a manner exactly similar to simple bodies; and so we have compound proportion, and are led to a mode of inquiry into,
and a method of expressing, the most complicated bodies., 4th. If we obtain the relative weights of the constituents of bodies, we
obtain the relative weights of the atoms, because the Smallest parts must be constituted as the largest. 5th. The relative weights
of the atoms become constant expressions for the proportions of combinations. These are the fundamental principles which made
chemistry a science, and which hold it together." The consequences of Dalton's laws gradually showed themselves to be, that there
was now one great law or theory in chemistry, so that it was for the first time fit to be called a science. Previously it was no more
than a series of separate facts; now, as a science, it is preserved by this fundamental law and its branches, and by this only. It
is remarkable that in 1808, and indeed for years afterwards, the theory remained to most chemists a mere speculation, as shown by
he writings of Wollaston, Sir Humphrey Davy, and others. . But it gradually made its way to universal recognition, these
philosophers plodding after Dalton with numberless proofs of its truth—Berzelius surpassing all others in accumulating and
arranging scientific wealth. The history of the atomic theory since Dalton's time has been ably written by Dr. Daubeny. In
1830 the Academy of Sciences at Paris elected Dalton foreign associate in the place of Davy. In 1832 Oxford elected him doctor of
civil laws Being now advanced in life, his friends were anxious to secure for him more rest in his declining years. The application
was successful; and at the meeting of the British Association at Cambridge it was announced by Professor Sedgwick that the king
had granted a pension of £150 to Dalton, which was increased in 1836 to £300. Two years previously his brother Jonathan died,
leaving for him, as heir, the paternal estate, which now made him, for one of his simple habits and moderate wants, comparatively
wealthy. Still he sought'not rest in a cessation of occupation ; according to his strength he continued working, and as late as 1840
he published four chemical essays.
Dalton's published essays or “Memoirs,” after the period of his greatest discovery, were generally on less important subjects.
He was the originator of the analysis by volume, which has long been practised to a great extent in the manufactories of Lancashire.
In one of his later memoirs “On the Analysis of Spring and Mineral Waters,” he gives directions for the centigrade method of testing,
and he constantly used it himself. A mere list of his essays or memoirs would fill many pages. Thus, from October 1794 to April
1844, he read before the members of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society no fewer than 116 papers, some of which
were also embodied in other works or printed elsewhere ; but all are to be found in the volumes of the Society’s “Memoirs.” To
* Dr. R. Angus Smith's Memoir of Dalton, etc., p. 238.
#umbrell of $alfort—ſhamrijegter 33arígſ. 415
Nicholson's Journal he contributed twelve memoirs; to Thomson's Annals of Philosophy, seven ; one to Phillips's Annals; three
to the Philosophical Transactions ; one to the Annales de Chimie ; and, in a separate form, eight or ten pamphlets and four or five
volumes. During the greater part of his long and useful life he gained his living as professional chemist, lecturer, and teacher of
chemistry and mathematics. In 1818 he had offered to him the scientific department of an expedition fitted out by the Admiralty
for investigation in the Polar Regions, under Sir John Ross. This he declined, as unfitted for the hardships of such an expedition
by his sedentary life, and also because he did not wish to suspend or interrupt his chemical inquiries. About the same time, Mr.
Strutt of Derby offered him a laboratory and a home at his house, with a salary of £400 a-year, and perfect freedom to spend his
time in any manner he might consider agreeable. This he also declined, considering it would necessarily involve a loss of inde-
pendence. But no rich professorships were offered to him ; and though Davy proposed in 1810 to nominate him as a Fellow of the
Royal Society, Dalton declined, probably because of the expense. In 1822 he was proposed and elected without his consent or
knowledge. In the summer of that year he visited Paris, where he was received with great respect; and it should be stated that
as early as 1816 the French Academy elected him a corresponding member, though not a member of the Royal Society of his own
country. In 1834 his friends decided on having a marble portrait-statue of Dalton (Seated), which was ably executed by Chantrey,
and it now stands in the entrance-hall of the Manchester Royal Institution, the trustees having charge of it on condition that no
one should be refused permission to look at it. In that year he was presented at Court. Honours of various kinds were presented
to him, as fellowships of societies, degrees from universities, including one of D.C.L. from Oxford, and another of LL.D. from
Edinburgh. On the 18th of April 1837, he was prostrated for a time by paralysis; and although he wrote some memoirs after this
period, he never entirely recovered. On the 16th February 1838 he had another attack, which much enfeebled him, and his speech
became feeble and almost inarticulate. Still he continued at intervals to attend the meetings of the Literary and Philosophical
Society, of which he had been president from 1817; but he could not walk the short distance thither without the aid of a friend's
arm, and he did not attempt to address the Society. He had another slight fit on the 20th May 1844; on the 26th July his servant
observed that his head was unusually tremulous; on the morning of the 27th, about six o'clock, his attendant left him for a short
time, urging him not to move till his return. However he seems to have made an attempt to rise; but fell from the bed, and was
found with his head on the floor quite lifeless. The three last lines he ever wrote recorded, in tabular form, his observations at
three different hours of the day before his death, of the thermometer, barometer, wind, rain, etc.; and it has been calculated that
in this way Dalton noted no fewer than 200,000 observations.
His fellow-townsmen, at length desirous to do his memory honour, gave him a public funeral. The remains, in a lead coffin,
inclosed in one of oak, were placed in the town-hall, and for some days were visited by a constant flow of silent spectators, who
gazed with deep interest on his placid and attenuated features. In this way 40,000 saw the remains of one whom most of them had
never seen while living. The funeral train, on the 12th August, was nearly a mile in length, including most of the public bodies
of the town, numerous private friends, and a very large cortège of carriages, followed by thousands on foot. All business ceased
for a time, during the procession and burial, which took place in the Ardwick cemetery. Around the grave is a strong railing;
enclosing a space about twenty feet square, and containing a very plain and simple, but massive covering, of polished red granite,
with the inscription, “John Dalton,” and, in Smaller letters, the dates of his birth and death. This monument was placed some
years after his death, when a subscription was raised (£5312) for a fitting memorial in connection with some public institution.
In Owens College, two Dalton chemical scholarships of £50 each, tenable for two years; two Dalton mathematical scholarships,
also of £50, and tenable for two years, were founded. Dalton prizes were also given of from £10 to £25; and a Dalton natural
history prize of £15. Of the subscription #1000 were reserved for a bronze statue, copied and enlarged from the marble one by
Chantrey; and it has been placed near the centre of the Royal Infirmary Esplanade, the widest public space in Manchester, and
amidst the statues of Watt, and Peel, and Wellington, conquerors in Science, in statesmanship, and in War.
In person Dalton was rather above the middle size, his height being 5 feet 7 inches. In middle age he was robust, athletic,
muscular, and he stooped slightly, as if hasting forward, for he was a rapid walker. His voice was deep and gruff; his lectures
were not interesting in style, for he spoke carelessly and in a mumbling manner. He was a Quaker, wore their dress, and used
their mode of address; but avoided the extremes of formality. On religious subjects he was exceedingly reserved. His habits
were marked by great simplicity and regularity. In large companies he was rather silent, but an attentive listener. With a few
intimates he much enjoyed a lively conversation ; but generally he was taciturn, and as a teacher was by no means communicative.
His habits were careful and economical; yet he gave £50 to the building of the new Friends' meeting-house in Manchester, at a
time when he certainly could have had but little. His only regular recreation was a game at bowls every Thursday afternoon.
His great delight was in his yearly excursion to the hills of Cumberland and the Lake District, in company with some members of
the family to whom he was now as a relative. He enjoyed an after-supper pipe. He was, by his constant devotion to scientific
pursuits and labours, much separated, if not isolated, from Society; and, when once asked why he had not married, he answered
that he had not time. Abstracted from the world in its social relations, he was a simple inquirer into Nature ; his enthusiasm
rose only in her presence ; his life was devoted to her study. His very solitary life, and abstract mode of thinking, prevented his
modulating his voice to the tones of society; and a certain rigidity of body, as well as of mind, caused the movements of both to
appear more rugged and uncouth than graceful. He was simple, temperate, and regular in all his habits, shunning every kind of
excess, and yielding homage to order and regularity all his life. As to his intellectual character, Sir Humphrey Davy said “he
was one of the most original philosophers of his time, and one of the most ingenious.” Still, Davy did not fully appreciate the
greatness of Dalton's character. Amongst his peculiar attributes of mind, were clearness of conception, directness of aim and
pursuit, tenacity of opinion once deliberately formed, and rapidity of conclusion. His mind was one that especially sought laws,
desiring to form the link between the mental and the material. He seldom observed without reasoning, or reasoned without
observing. One quality was Dalton's to a degree almost unparalleled—the constancy with which he clung to his occupation of
observing and generalising. His mind was as an intellectual tool, constantly planning, drilling, and boring, with never-ceasing
activity, without any violent fits of haste, and without any seasons of absolute rest; in short, a mind which has shown itself
(whatever it may have lacked in the region of the imagination and the affections), as well in its operations as in its results, to be of
the very highest scientific class.”
EATON HODGKINSON was born of respectable parents at the small village of Anderton, in the parish of Great Budworth,
Cheshire, on the 26th February 1789. His father, a farmer, died of fever when he was about six years of age, leaving his widow
with three children, whose education and maintenance depended upon her exertions and prudence. She continued the farm, and by
industry, thrift, and business-like habits, she was enabled to educate her children respectably, and to send her son to the Grammar
School of Northwich, where he received the rudiments of a classical education, studying Latin, Greek, and Hebrew, under the
immediate supervision of the head-master, Mr. Littler. This was at the desire of his uncle the Rev. Henry Hodgkinson, rector of
Aberfield, Berks, who was very anxious that his nephew should be educated with a view of going to Oxford or Cambridge to
prepare for the church. Hence the study of classics was deemed indispensable, though not in conformity with his own tastes and
habits of thought, for even at an early age, he was naturally more inclined to the study of mathematics than of languages. To the
severe treatment which he suffered at this school is attributed the nervous tremor of his hands and speech, which continued with
1 In repeating the acknowledgments due to the admirable Memoir may be permitted to suggest the perusal of this interesting biography
of Dalton and the Atomic Theory, by Dr. Robert Angus Smith, it to all who take an interest in science and scientific men.—H.
416 (The #istory of £amcagüirº,
him through life, and proved a serious impediment to his success. The Rev. Mr. Littler was a severe disciplinarian ; if a boy could
not learn he tried to flog it into him, and young Hodgkinson, owing to his inaptitude for languages, having received a severe thrashing
for not having learned his lesson perfectly, suffered so much that he was removed from the grammar School and placed in a private
school in Northwich, of far less pretension but more in unison with hist aspirations. This school was conducted by Mr. Shaw, a
gentleman of superior mathematical attainments, and possessing great tact in teaching and in the general management of boys.
Here Eaton Hodgkinson finished his youthful education. He ranked well amongst his schoolfellows, and held a high position in
the affections of his master. Mr. Shaw's instructions in mathematics were fully appreciated by his pupil, who made rapid advances
in this class of studies, and laid the foundation of the mathematical knowledge which he afterwards applied with singular success
to the extension and development of the theory and practice of the strength of materials. The bias of his mind, and his mother's
position, caused the abandonment of the intention to educate him for the church, and he was allowed to devote his attention and
energies to the management of farming. Accordingly he commenced by actively aiding his mother in the farm ; but he made little
progress in his new vocation. Farming, thrust upon him by necessity, was not suited to his genius; however, he pursued it as a
duty to his mother and sisters. His mind meanwhile developed, and he could not long be satisfied with the narrow sphere of a
Cheshire village. At length he persuaded his mother to give up the farm and embark her small capital in a pawnbroking business
in Salford, Manchester; and thither the family removed from Great Budworth in 1811, when Mr. Hodgkinson was twenty-two
years of age. This was the turning-point in his career. His residence in Manchester was soon productive of important consequences;
and the line of scientific inquiry in which he was to advance was not long left indeterminate. His spare moments from the
business, in which he assisted his mother and sister, were entirely devoted to reading standard works on science ; those of Simpson,
Emerson, and Dealtry, adding greatly to his knowledge of the higher departments of mathemetical research. In consequence of his
ardent love for scientific pursuits, Mr. Hodgkinson became acquainted with the most gifted men then living in Manchester—Drs.
Dalton, Holme, and Henry ; Ewart, Sibson, Johns, and Fairbairn, were amongst his scientific friends. In his mathematical reading
he obtained the help of Dalton, then a private teacher of mathematics in Manchester. Becoming one of his pupils, he read with
him the works of Tagrange, Laplace, Euler, and Bernouilli, whose writings were then engaging the attention of the best
mathematicians of England. The friendship of Dalton and Hodgkinson, cemented by genial minds and kindred pursuits,
continued uninterrupted till the death of Dalton. The extent of Mr. Hodgkinson's mathematical reading at this period
may be estimated by his paper “On the Transverse Strain and Strength of Materials,” read before the Manchester Literary and
Philosophical Society, March 22, 1822, and published in the fourth volume (second series) of their “Memoirs.” Mr. Hodgkinson was
twice married, but without issue. His first wife was Miss Catherine Johns, daughter of the Rev. William Johns of Manchester;
his second, Miss Holditch, daughter of Captain Henry Holditch of the Cheshire Militia, who survived him. In his later years his
great mental powers became prostrated, and his memory failed so much that his faculties required absolute repose. In this
state of mental lassitude Mrs. Hodgkinson devoted her powers to comfort and Sustain her husband, and her affectionate services
were of great value to him. Though enfeebled both physically and mentally, his desire for mental activity continued unabated to
the last; and only a few months before his decease he was engaged in arranging his papers with a view to publication in a form
more accessible to engineers than they now are, scattered throligh the volumes of learned societies. This work he was not permitted
to complete ; sinking gradually under the decay of his faculties, he expired tranquilly at his residence, Eaglesfield House, Higher
Broughton, Manchester, on the 18th of June 1861, in the seventy-second year of his age : his remains were interred in his native
village. Such are the brief annals of an amiable, modest, unobtrusive man of science; one of profound rather than brilliant intellect,
of cultivated intelligence, unwearied perseverance, and a kind and affectionate heart, Though not precocious in youth, he even
then possessed a quick perception of the relation of abstract magnitudes, and manifested, like Newton and Stephenson, a strong
propensity for making sun-dials. His character was marked by the highest integrity, and was unsullied by any act of meanness.
Jealous of the products of his own mental labours, he was scrupulously just in the use of the mental property of other cultivators of
science, and would never appropriate the conclusions of any man without due acknowledgment. If he did entertain any hostile
feeling, it was against those who, as he conceived, were unscrupulous in their appropriation of the fruit of other men's brains. His
sense of justice forbade him to show the slightest sympathy with this class of offenders. At an advanced period of his life he was
appointed Professor of the Mechanical Principles of Engineering at University College, London ; where his lectures and oral
instruction were unfortunately deprived of a large share of efficiency by his nervous hesitancy of speech. In his late years he
travelled both at home and abroad, especially examining the stupendous Cathedrals and other public buildings of Western Europe; and
he was also fond of investigating the remains of antiquity. He enjoyed the friendship and esteem of his contemporaries in science ;
the most eminent engineers of the day placed unbounded confidence in the results of his experiments, believing them to be faithfully
recorded, and accurately reduced to meet the requirements of mathematical formulae. In fact the engineers' pocket-books and
text-books of the present time are full of Hodgkinson's formulæ for calculating the strength and deflection of pillars and beams.
Like a true philosopher, Professor Hodgkinson was satisfied with a small but adequate competency, and, retiring from business at
an early period, he devoted a long life and rare mental gifts to the development of Science. He had the great and unusual pleasure,
for a scientific man, of living to see the fruits of his labour fully appreciated and extensively applied to the construction of great
practical engineering works. He was not without the recognition of his great merits implied in Scientific honours and distinctions.
He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society and of the Geological Society, and was also M.R.I.A., Honorary Member R.I.B.A.,
Institute of Civil Engineers, Royal Scot. Society of Arts, and Society of Civil Engineers, Paris, as well as Professor of the Mechanical
Principles of Engineering in University College, London.
Little has been said, and that only incidentally, of those important services which he rendered to physical and mechanical
science; nor is it easy to describe without diagrams or algebraic notation his mathematical formulae, the results of a vast number
of experiments, extending over many years, in such a way as to be either clear or interesting to the general reader. . His first essay
(in 1822), “On the Transverse Strain and Strength of Metals,” is described as “a model of clear, sound, geometrical reasoning and
refined artifice.” Its data were obtained from experiments of great fidelity, care, and accuracy. No pains or expense" were
deemed too great to make the results of the experiments successful and trustworthy, so that the philosopher and the engineer alike
could place implicit reliance upon them. In these experiments, as set forth in the essay, is recorded, for the first time, an element
which became an important object of research in all Mr. Hodgkinson's subsequent experiments—viz, Set, or the difference between
the original position of a strained body and the position which it assumes when the strain is removed. In this paper Mr.
Hodgkinson fixed, for the first time, the exact position of the neutral line in the section of rupture or fracture, and made it sub-
servient to the computation of the strength of a beam of given dimensions. He first accurately conceived the true mechanical
principle by which the position of the line could be determined—viz. by equating the forces of extension with the force of com-
pression—a method which is now universally adopted in computing the strength of beams. This method attained general accept-
ance, against the dicta of acknowledged authorities, only by slow degrees; but Professor Barlow, at the British Association meeting
of 1833, declared that it was a true principle, and that its discovery was due to Mr. Hodgkinson. The experiments recorded in
this same essay established the laws—“that the extension of the fibres of a bent beam were proportional to the forces during
the early stages of flexure; but as the extensions arrived nearer to fracture, they increased faster than the forces;” and “that so
long as the forces are moderate, and are applied in the direction of the fibres, the compressions will be as the forces; but when the
beam becomes bent, the fibres being then crushed, offer a feeble resistance to the force.” The chain-bridge at Broughton, Man-
1. During his life several thousand pounds of his private fortune were expended on experiments.—H.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlamriještet #arigij. 4.17
&
chester, which broke down by a troop of soldiers marching over it, and the celebrated Menai Suspension Bridge, built by Telford, had
stimulated inquiries respecting the best form of such structures, which naturally led to a reconsideration of the catenary, a curve the
properties of which under given conditions, were first discovered by James Bernouilli. Mr. Hodgkinson read an essay before the
Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society in February 1828, “On the Forms of the Catenary in Suspension Bridges;” in which,
after a clear investigation of the known properties of the common catenary, the formulae are applied with great ability to determine
the form of suspension bridges, when the weight of catenarian chain, the weight of the roadway, and the weight of the suspension-rods,
are taken into account. The introduction of these complex though necessary elements into the question, led to the formation of a
very difficult but comprehensive differential equation, which has received the commendation of Dr. Whewell, the Rev. Canon
Mosely, and other eminent physicists. Mr. Hodgkinson's next paper (read April 2, 1830) was “Theoretical and Experimental
Researches to ascertain the Strength and Best Forms of Iron Beams,” probably the most valuable and original contribution to the
history of the strength of materials which this century can boast. From the theoretical expositions therein given of the neutral
line, the experiments to determine the strongest beam were devised and successfully carried out. The result was the discovery of
the celebrated “Hodgkinson's Beam”—that is, the strongest beam that can be made from a given weight of material and a given
length and depth of beam. George Stephenson, who was at this time chief engineer to the Liverpool and Manchester Railway
Company, took great interest in these experiments, and was frequently present when they were made. The Rev. Canon Mosely,
after having described certain necessary conditions, says—“It follows, that the strongest form of Section in a cast-iron beam is
that by which the material is collected into two unequal flanges joined by a rib, the greater flange being on the extended side, and
the proportion of this inequality of the flanges being just such as to make up for the inequality of the resistance of the material to
rupture by extension and compression respectively. Mr. Hodgkinson, to whom this suggestion is due, has directed a series of
experiments to the determination of the proportion of the flanges by which the strongest form of section is obtained. . . . In
the best form of cast-iron beam or girder used before these experiments there was never attained a strength of more than
2885 lbs. There was therefore, by this form, a gain of 1190 lbs. per square inch of the section, or of two-fifths of the
strength of the beam.” In the last of six experiments by Mr. Hodgkinson, the flanges being of equal strength to resist
extension and compression respectively, the lower flange had six times the material of the upper, and the strength per square
inch of section was shown to be 4075 lbs. This victory over material is entirely Mr. Hodgkinson's own, and, as the President
of the British Association observed at Manchester in 1861, there is no one to divide the honour of this useful achievement
with him. He originated the conception, and pursued it with judgment and industry, until the best form of beam was
fully determined; and the “Hodgkinson beam” has been described as “the pole-star for engineers and builders during the
last twenty years.” In this paper Mr. Hodgkinson acknowledges his deep obligations to his friend Mr. Fairbairn, in procuring
for him the beams on which to experiment. The contributions of Professor Hodgkinson to the “Reports” and “Sections”
of the British Association were numerous and important, all setting forth various experiments, and thence deducing new and
valuable laws. In the “Philosophical Transactions” for 1840, is an extensive inquiry by Mr. Hodgkinson “On the Strength
of Pillars of Cast-iron and other Materials.” Mr. Fairbairn, in this as in other cases, supplied him with ample means for investi-
gating experimentally the strength of cast-iron pillars. For this paper the council of the Royal Society awarded Mr. Hodgkinson
the royal medal, as a mark of their appreciation of his labours, the value and importance of which are confirmed by every engineer's
pocket-book in Europe during a period of twenty years. The inquiry is naturally divided into two parts—long pillars and short
pillars. ... The experiments resulted in formulae which cannot be given here ; but a few of the laws or rules may be stated. As to
long solid pillars—“With pillars of cast-iron, wrought-iron, steel, and timber, whose length is upwards of thirty times their
diameter, the strength of those with flat ends is three times as great as those with rounded ends.” Again—“With pillars of the
same diameter and length, both ends rounded, one end rounded and the other flat, and both ends flat, their strengths are as 1, 2, 3,
respectively.” Mr. Hodgkinson showed that solid pillars with rounded ends and enlarged in the middle are stronger than uniform
pillars of the same length and weight; and this he proved to be the case also in hollow pillars. In a paper on “The Power of
Cast-iron Pillars to resist long-continued Pressure,” Mr. Hodgkinson recorded several very interesting experiments, from which he
inferred that time has but little if any influence on the strength of cast-iron. -*
In order to facilitate the calculation of the strength of short pillars, Mr. Hodgkinson has given the crushing-strength of a great
variety of timbers used in constructions. In the “Philosophical Transactions” for 1857, Mr. Hodgkinson's paper on the strength of
pillars, gives experiments with an apparatus three times as large as that of a former occasion, and is thus enabled slightly to correct
the formulae of his former paper. He found that the pillars with both ends rounded broke in one place, in the middle ; but the
pillars with both ends flat broke in three places, the middle and at each end. When one end was flat and the other rounded, the
pillars broke at one-third the distance from the rounded end. The metal in large castings varies in density; the density diminishing
from the outside of the casting to the centre. In cast-iron pillars of 2% inches diameter, the crushing force varied from 39 tons per
Square inch outside, to 33% tons per square inch centre. Mr. Hodgkinson discovered that the difference in the strength between the
outside and centre of large castings was much less than in small ones. The fall of the railway bridge over the river Dee at Chester,
when several lives were lost, led Mr. Hodgkinson to investigate the position of the tension-rods, which were intended as auxiliary
Supports to the structure ; and he showed, on the clearest geometrical evidence, that the position of the tension-rods was not only
no additional support to the stability of the bridge, but positively aided its downfall. In consequence of this accident Mr.
Robert Stephenson made the personal acquaintance of Mr. Hodgkinson, to whom his father had steadily looked as his authority
and guide in the application of iron to railway purposes. When, therefore, Mr. Robert Stephenson was engaged in the novel
construction of the Conway and Britannia tubular bridges, he requested the assistance of his friend Mr. Hodgkinson in fixing the
best form and dimensions of tubes. The experiments devised and carried out by Mr. Hodgkinson on this subject, are recorded in
the report of the royal commissioners appointed to inquire into the application of iron to railway structures. The results obtained
by Mr. Hodgkinson were so satisfactory to Mr. Stephenson as to enable him with confidence to build the tubular bridges. Mr.
Stephenson, in the history of these bridges, thus frankly acknowledges his deep obligations to the mathematical philosopher, “for
devising and carrying out a series of experiments, which terminated in establishing the laws that regulate the strength of tubular
structures, in a manner so satisfactory that I was enabled to proceed with more confidence than I otherwise should have done.”
This declaration places Mr. Hodgkinson before the public in his right position, as a most important contributor to the success of
an enterprise which will represent the engineering skill of the present time, and will be the admiration of future ages. Mr. E.
Clark, who superintended the building of the tubular bridges, speaks in the highest terms of the importance of Mr. Hodgkinson's
labours in fixing the proper dimensions of the bridges, for a great portion of the practical construction of which we are indebted to
Mr. Fairbairn. In 1847 Mr. Hodgkinson was appointed one of the commissioners to inquire into the application of iron to railway
structures; and during two years the whole of his time and abilities was devoted to the objects of this inquiry. The exertions,
both physical and mental, which he made during this period for the advancement of engineering science, were so great as materially
to affect his health and to prostrate his powers. Immediately after the publication of the commissioners' report in 1849, he found
it necessary to recruit his exhausted energies by a continental tour. His labours for this commission are published in the report, and
comprise 114 closely-printed pages. The mean tensile strength of four different kinds of cast-iron was found to be 15,711 lbs. per
Square inch, and the ultimate extension was 1-600th of the length of the bar. As to wrought-iron, the extensions and compressions
were found to be nearly proportional to the pressures producing them. The extension is proportional to the pressure up to about
12 tons per square inch ; after this, the pressure is not proportional to the extension. One important fact was elicited by these
researches—that cast-iron bars are decreased in length twice as much as wrought-iron bars by the same pressure ; but wrought-iron
bars sink to any degree with little more than 12 tons' pressure per square inch of section, while cast-iron bars require three times
3 H
4.18 ." (Iſte §tgtorg ºf £antaglitz.
ty
the pressure to produce the same effect. His fellow-commissioners—Lord Wrottesley, Professor Willis, Colonel James, Mr. Rennie,
and Mr. Cubitti-express in the report their special thanks to Mr. Hodgkinson for the zeal and intelligence with which he carried out
the remarkable series of experiments detailed ; and this just estimate of his labours has been amply confirmed by the engineering
experience of the last thirteen years. Such are some of the labours and discoveries of a great and good man, who spent his life and
his great powers for the advancement of science and the good of mankind, with a single aim to discover the truth, without desiring
or gaining pecuniary reward.”
MANCHESTER NECROLOGY IN THE NINETEENTH CENTURY.
ACKERs, Holland, esq. of Lark Hill, Salford, died April 17, 1801, aged 56.
Aytoun, Major-General (“Spanking Roger”), of Chorlton Hall, October 23, 1810.
Atherton, Henry, esq., barrister-at-law, Lincoln's Inn, August 17, 1816, aged 76.
Atherton, Ann, widow of Henry Atherton, barrister, and daughter of Edward Byrom, esq., January 9, 1826, aged 75.
Ackers, James, esq. of Lark Hill, Salford, May 26, 1827, aged 71.
Ashworth, Richard J. D., Esq., barrister, at Strawberry Hill, August 5, 1828.
Ashton, Thomas, esq. of Pole Bank, Werneth, shot by turn-outs, January 3, 1831. - -
Ainsworth, Mrs. Ann, widow of Thomas, and mother of William Harrison Ainsworth the novelist, March 15, 1842. r
Arkwright, Richard, esq., only son of Sir Richard, said to have property worth eleven millions sterling, April 23, 1843.
Aston, Joseph, of Manchester Eachange Herald, author of “Picture of Manchester,” etc., October 19, 1844, aged 83.
Allen, Dr., bishop of Ely, to which he was translated from the see of Bristol; March 20, 1845, aged 75.
Ambery, Charles Clayton, bookseller, January 4, 1848.
Arbuthnot, Lieutenant-General Sir Thomas, general commanding Northern and Midland districts, January 26, 1849, aged 72.
ByROM, Elizabeth, of Kersall Cell, daughter of John Byrom, F.R.S., December 2, 1801.
Bayley, Thomas Butterworth, esq., of Hope House, Pendleton, a magistrate thirty-five years, June 24, 1802.
Briddock, Ralph, poetical writer, July 17, 1803.
Bridgewater (Francis Egerton), third duke of, the great promoter of canal navigation, March 8, 1803.
Bancks, Gerard, printer and bookseller, an officer in the volunteers, November 1804.
Barlow Joseph, governor of Chetham's Hospital, April 9, 1806, aged 72.
Bailey, Rev. James, senior fellow of the Collegiate Church, November 13, 1808.
Barnes, Thomas, LL.D., divine and philosopher, thirty years minister of Cross Street Chapel, July 3, 1810.
Bayley, Rev. Cornelius, D.D., founder and minister of St. James's Church, April 2, 1812. tº -
Bradshaw, John, F.A.S., of Darcy Lever, a magistrate and lieutenant-colonel of militia, killed by overturning of a coach, 1816.
Battye, Thomas, author of the “Red Basil Book,” etc., April 16, 1816.
Barritt, Thomas, saddler and antiquary, Withy Grove, October 29, 1820, aged 77.
‘Broomhead, Rev. Rowland, forty years Roman Catholic priest, October 12, 1820, aged 69.
Brookes, Rev. Joshua, chaplain of the Collegiate Church, November 11, 1821, aged 67.
Blackburne, Thomas, LL.D., warden of the Collegiate Church, and rector of Thelwall, January 10, 1823, aged 67.
Bradbury, John Leigh, calico-printer and inventor, January 4, 1829. -
Bannerman, David, esq., Mosley Street, December 1, 1829. g .
Blackburne, Isaac, esq., distributor of stamps, and brother to John Blackburne, esq. of Hale, December 17, 1830, aged 72.
Bayley, Sir Daniel (eldest son of T. B. Bayley of Hope), Consul-general in Russia, etc., twenty years, June 21, 1834, aged 68.
Bruce, James, master of the Exchange twenty-four years, November 19, 1834, aged 79.
Bailey, Henry, deputy-constable of Chetham, drowned in the river Irwell in trying to rescue a boy, March 11, 1835.
Bury, Thomas, fustian-shearer and woollen-cord finisher; founder and first finisher of moleskins, October 31, 1836, aged 78.
Butterworth, James, author of “History of Manchester,” some poems, etc., November 23, 1837, aged 66.
Byrom, Eleanor, daughter of Edward Byrom, esq., founder of St. John's Church, benefactress of poor, October 8, 1838, aged 82.
Bateman, William, founder of the Deaf and Dumb Institution, January 25, 1839, aged 73. -
Bottomley, Lieutenant James, of 15th Regiment, amateur engraver of many local views, March 15, 1840, aged 78.
Bellhouse, David, builder, October 12, 1840, aged 77.
Bayley, Edward Clive, esq., son of T. B. Bayley, esq. of Hope, at St. Petersburg, February 22, 1841.
Brierley, James, esq., of Árdwick, boroughréeve in 1820 and 1821, and many years a magistrate, January 18, 1842.
Burn John, originator of “Burn’s Glance" of the cotton-trade, March 27, 1844, aged 68. *
Bethune-Drinkwater, Col. John, captain 72d Royal Manchester Volunteers, author of “Siege of Gibraltar,” Jan. 16, 1844, aged 81.
Braidley, Benjamin, twice boroughreeve of Manchester, and a promoter of Sunday schools, etc., April 3, 1845.
Butler, Samuel, tragedian, of the York circuit, and of the Theatre Royal, Manchester, July 17, 1845, aged 46.
Birley, Hugh Hornby, esq. of Broom House, magistrate and deputy-lieutenant, July 31, 1845, aged 68.
Butterworth, Edwin, author of various local histories, April 19, 1848, aged 36.
Burd, William, alderman, August 18, 1848, aged 59. -
Brooks, John, esq., calico-printer, etc. (son of William and brother of Samuel Brooks, bankers), October 27, 1849.
Bradshaw, George, originator of railway guides, in Sweden, September 6, 1853, aged 53.
Brotherton, Joseph, esq. (M.P., Salford), suddenly in an omnibus, January 7, 1857.
Brandt, Robert, esq., Judge of the Manchester County Court, April 15, 1862, aged 66.
Beardoe, James, Ardwick Green, a collector of pictures and antiques, February 13, 1867.
Bradbury, Charles, a collector of antiques, articles of virtu, coins, pictures, July 7, 1867.
CLOWEs, Samuel, esq., Broughton Old Hall, June 17, 1801, aged 34.
Cheese, Griffith, organist of Collegiate Church, and a musical composer, November 10, 1804.
Cheek, Rev. Mosley, founder of St. Stephen's Church, and chaplain of the New Bailey, July 18, 1805.
Cooke, James, solicitor, Salford (captain and colonel in the Volunteer corps), August 7, 1812.
Cowdroy, William, proprietor and editor of Manchester Gazette, and poetical writer, August 10, 1814, aged 62.
Cowherd, Rev. William, founder of “Bible Christians” (in tenets Swedenborgian), March 24, 1816, aged 53.
Clarke, Isaac, bookseller, June 18, 1816, aged 73.
Clarke, Henry, LL.D., Professor of History and Experimental Philosophy, April 30, 1818, aged 75.
1 This brief memoir is abridged from one by Mr. Robert Rawson, Rawson is himself a mathematician of high merit and attainments,
an honorary member of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical and competent to weigh the value of Mr. Hodgkinson's experi-
Society, read to the society in March and October 1862, and published ments, and the formulae deduced from them. He has kindly per-
in the third series of its Transactions (vol. ii. pp. 145-204). Mr. mitted the use of his memoir.—H.
#umbren of Šalfort—ſhanthester parish. - 419
Clarke, Joseph, bookseller, March 22, 1820, aged 81.
Crompton, Captain Richard, second son of the late Nathaniel Crompton, esq., served in the Peninsula, December 1, 1821.
Cowdroy, William, jun., proprietor and printer of the Manchester Gazette, March 10, 1822, aged 47.
Cowdroy, A., a proprietor of a former Manchester Courier, December 28, 1828.
Clowes, Rev. John, sixty-two years rector of St. John's Church, May 28, 1831, aged 87.
Carbutt, Edward, M.D., author of “Clinical Lectures,” etc., February 25, 1836.
Cooper, Thomas, barrister, author, and editor of Manchester Herald, retired to America, May 11, 1837, aged 79.
Calvert, Thomas, D.D., warden of the Collegiate Church, Manchester, June 4, 1840, aged 65.
Clarke, William, bookseller, Market Place, June 15, 1840. -
Cudmore, Charles, professor of music (composer of the “Martyr of Antioch” oratorio), December 29, 1840, aged 53.
Condy, George, esq., barrister, editor Manchester and Salford Advertiser, a bankruptcy commissioner, dramatist, etc., Nov. 4, 1841.
Chesshyre, John, esq., Vice-Admiral of the White, brother of Edward Chesshyre, solicitor, March 27, 1843, aged 85.
Crewdson, Isaac, author of “A Beacon to the Society of Friends,” etc., May 8, 1844, aged 64.
DRINKWATER, PETER, esq., of Irwell House, Agecroft, on his journey to London, December 2, 1801.
Darwell, Thomas, of Ridgefield, June 13, 1807, aged 67.
Darby, Rev. John, more than forty years second master of the Grammar School, August 31, 1808, aged 71.
T]eacon, Edward Erastus, M.D., March 14, 1813. -
Dauntesey, Rev. John, of Agecroft Hall, April 24, 1813, aged 78.
Dunstan, William, governor of New Bailey Prison, February 20, 1817.
Dunstan, Thomas, do. do. July 7, 1826, aged 32.
Dean, Dr. John, Principal of St. Mary's Hall, Oxford, April 1833. -
Derby, Edward, fifteenth earl of Lord-Lieutenant of Lancashire nearly fifty-nine years, October 21, 1834, aged 82.
Ducie, first earl (Thomas Reynolds Moreton), June 22, 1840.
Dillon, Lin, esq., August 21, 1841, aged 80.
Dickenson, John, esq., of Birch Hall, last direct descendant of the Manchester Dickensons of 1745, January 11, 1842.
T)yer, John, editor of Manchester Chronicle, August 4, 1843. -
Dalton, John, D.C.L. Oxon, F.R.S. etc., philosopher, and discoverer of the Atomic Theory, July 27, 1844, aged 77.
Darbishire, Samuel, barrister, burst a blood-vessel, May 25, 1846, aged 29.
Dyson, Paul, well known in sporting circles, found drowned February 1, 1848. -
Day, Henry, Surgeon, and Honorary Secretary to the Manchester Mechanics' Institute, May 1, 1851.
Ev ANs, Sir WILLIAM DAVID, Chief Magistrate of Manchester, author, and judge in India, December 4, 1821.
Ethelston, Rev. C. W., Fellow of Collegiate Church, and incumbent of St. Mark's, Cheetham Hill, September 15, 1830.
Ellis, Foster, of Hulme, forty years in the army, and Orderly to General Elliot at Gibraltar, June 5, 1830, aged 85.
Entwisle, Richard, of Rusholme, May 30, 1836.
Ellesmere, first earl of (Francis Egerton), at Bridgewater House, London, February 18, 1857.
FERRIER, John, M.D., senior physician to Manchester Infirmary, etc., medical author, etc., February 4, 1815, aged 51.
Foxley, Robinson, M.D., King Street, November 8, 1815.
Farrington, Joseph, R.A., landscape-painter, 1820.
Terrier, Thomas Ilderton, esq., eldest son of Dr. Ferrier, colonel in Columbian service, July 17, 1821.
Paulkner, Matthew, proprietor of the Manchester Herald, March 8, 1824, aged 86.
Ford, William, bookseller and bibliographer, October 3, 1832, aged 61.
Fletcher, Mrs. (Maria Jane Jewsbury), poet and prose writer, October 3, 1833.
Ford, Colonel, of Claremont, colonel of Manchester Volunteers, and a feoffee of Chetham's Hospital, April 15, 1839.
Fletcher, John, esq., a director of the Gentlemen's Concerts twenty-five years, January 16, 1842.
GRESWELL, Rev. JoHN, schoolmaster at Chetham's Hospital, and brother of the Rev. W. P. Greswell, July 14, 1810.
Grant, William, esq., father of William, Daniel, and John Grant, June 29, 1817, aged 84.
Greswell, Thomas, schoolmaster, Chetham's Hospital, March 8, 1819.
Gould, Nathaniel, esq., benefactor to various charities, March 10, 1820.
Gleave, Joseph, printer, bookseller, etc., February 16, 1828, aged 55.
Grimshaw, Captain, May 31, 1836.
Grundy, Thomas Leeming, line-engraver, March 10, 1841, aged 33.
Grant, William, esq., a magistrate and deputy-lieutenant, one of “Cheeryble Brothers” of Dickens, February 28, 1842, aged 72.
Grundy, Rev. John, minister of Cross Street Chapel, and author of “Lectures, etc.,” 2 vols., May 9, 1843.
Gatliffe, Rev. John, Senior Fellow of Collegiate Church, and rector of St. Mary's Church, November 22, 1843, aged 80.
Gadsby, Rey. William, minister of the Baptist Chapel, St. George's Road (now Rochdale Road), January 27, 1844, aged 71.
Greaves, John, esq. of Irlam Hall, magistrate and deputy-lieutenant, July 8, 1849. -
Goadsby, Thomas, mayor of Manchester, 16th February 1866.
Grundy, John Clowes, picture and print dealer, Exchange Street, May 19, 1867, aged 60.
HIGHS, or HAIGHS, or HAGUE, THOMAS, of Leigh, inventor of the spinning-jenny, December 10, 1803, aged 84.
Harrop, Joseph, printer and bookseller (Manchester Mercury), January 20, 1804, aged 67.
Henshaw, Thomas, esq. of Oldham, benefactor to Manchester charities, March 4, 1810. -
Hanson, Joseph, esq. of Strangeways Hall (Lieutenant-Colonel of Manchester Volunteer Rifle Corps), September 7, 1811, aged 37.
Henry, Thomas, F.R.S., chemist and philosopher, June 18, 1816, aged 82.
Hawkes, Rev. William, thirty-one years minister of Unitarian Chapel, Mosley Street, August 1, 1820.
Hulme, Otho, esq., of the firm of Otho Hulme and Sons, October 8, 1820.
Hoyle, Thomas, senior, calico-printer, Mayfield, April 9, 1821, aged 82.
Hall, Elizabeth, King Street, August 9, 1826, aged 86.
Howe, William, auctioneer (“Lord Howe”), June 16, 1826.
Hardie, Henry, esq., M.D., October 6, 1826.
Hindley, Rev. J., senior chaplain Collegiate Church, June 17, 1827.
Hamilton, Gavin, surgeon, August 25, 1829, aged 74. -
Hall, Mrs. Frances, King Street, great benefactress to charities, January 4, 1829, aged 83.
Hobson, Edward, botanist, mineralogist, geologist, and entomologist, September 7, 1830.
Harrop, James, eldest son of late Joseph Harrop of the Manchester Mercury, October 27, 1834.
Hindmarsh, Rev. Robert, minister of New Jerusalem Chapel, Salford, January 2, 1835, aged 75.
420 Qſìje ??igturn of £antagjire.
Hordern, Rev. Peter, Librarian of Chetham's Library, and afterwards incumbent of Chorlton-cum-Hardy, March 28, 1836.
Henry, William, M.D., philosopher, chemist, author, September 2, 1836, aged 61.
Hughes, Moses, oboeist, resident fifty years, November 26, 1836.
Hardman, Thomas, esq., August 16, 1838, aged 60.
Hatfield, John, esq., lover of fine arts and donor of casts from Canova to Royal Institution, February 25, 1840.
Hargreaves, Hamer, left £1000, and music, etc., to form Hargreaves Choral Society, March 5, 1841.
Hall, John, M.D., F.L.S., author of a work on botany, etc., March 17, 1843.
Hall, James, of Sunnyside, Ordsal, dyer, built at his own cost Regent Bridge, Salford, November 1, 1843, aged 95.
Holt, David, sewing-cotton manufacturer, May 30, 1846, aged 82.
Herbert, Hon. and Rev. William, last warden and first dean of Manchester, 1847.
Heron, James Holt, father of Mr. Joseph Heron, town-clerk of Manchester, August 16, 1847, aged 70.
|Hewitt, Richard Porter, cabinet-maker and author of odes, etc., September 1, 1847. -
Hibbert, Lieut.-Col. 40th Regiment (brother of Dr. Hibbert-Ware), served in Peninsula, India, etc., November 12, 1847.
Holme, Edward, M.D., President of the Lit. and Phil., the Nat. Hist., and the Chetham Societies, Nov. 28, 1847, aged 79.
Holt, David, of Butler Street, founder of St. Paul's Sunday School, Bennett Street, February 26, 1848, aged 60.
Hibbert-Ware, Samuel, M.D., antiquary, historical and geological writer, 1848, aged 66.
Heron, John Spear, secretary of Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Company, January 25, 1851.
Hodgkinson, Eaton, F.R.S., F.G.S., etc., mathematician, and inventor of “Hodgkinson's Beam,” June 18, 1861, aged 71.
Harter, John Collier, esq., fourteen years treasurer of the Manchester Infirmary, at Broughton New Hall, March 9, 1862, aged 73.
ISHERWOOD, JOHN, musical amateur, having pure bass voice of rare compass, October 29, 1849.
Jon ES, HENRY, gunner in Manchester 72d Regiment, at Gibraltar (“Harry the Devil”), September 19, 1818.
Jones, William (of Jones, Loyd, and Co., bankers), at Broughton Hall, December 24, 1821.
Jackson, Nathan, esq., commissary in Spain and France, December 17, 1827.
Jacquard, inventor of the Jacquard loom, May 22, 1828, of a fall from a coach.
Jones, Rev. Richard, thirty years minister of New Jerusalem Church, Peter Street, November 22, 1832.
Johnson, Mary, youngest and last surviving daughter of Thomas Johnson, esq. of Tyldesley, June 21, 1839, aged 82.
Jackson, Roger Royden, solicitor, a lineal descendant of Dr. Cartwright, bishop of Chester, January 28, 1842.
KNIGHT, THOMAS, one of the managers of the Manchester and Liverpool. Theatres Royal, February 4, 1820.
Kay, Alexander, solicitor, twice mayor of Manchester, May 16, 1863.
Rershaw, James, M.P. (Stockport), mayor of Manchester, 1864.
LEVER, DAME FRANCEs, relict of Sir Ashton Lever, at Alkrington, July 21, 1802.
Lloyd, George, esq., barrister-at-law, October 12, 1804. -
Lawson, Charles, A.M., fifty-eight years master of the Free Grammar School, April 19, 1806, aged 78.
Lever, Rev. John, brother of Sir Ashton Lever, February 1807, aged 75.
Lewis, -—joint-manager with Mr. Ward of the Manchester and Liverpool. Theatres, January 1811.
Leigh, Cornelius, of Harrop's Manchester Mercury and British Volunteer, August 5, 1814, aged 56.
Liverseege, Henry, artist (“Recruit,” “Falstaff and Bardolph,” etc.), January 13, 1832, aged 29.
Lavender, Stephen, deputy-constable of Manchester twelve years, 1821-1833, June 12, 1833.
Lever, John, esq. of Alkrington Hall, August 21, 1834, aged 66. -
Lyon, Rev. James, rector of Prestwich fifty-three years, August 13, 1836, aged 78.
Lever, Darcy, esq., grandson of Sir Darcy, and last male of the Levers of Great, Darcy, and Little Lever, January 22, 1839.
Lingard, Rev. Joshua, first incumbent of St. George's Church, Hulme, fifteen years, November 29, 1842, aged 44.
Lingard, Thomas, esq., agent to the Old Quay Co. many years, October 4, 1843, aged 70.
Tee, Jesse, of Hulme, herald, genealogist, and glossarist, February 17, 1844.
Lockett, William, first Mayor of Salford, July 7, 1856, aged 78.
MILNE, NATHANIEL, esq., twenty-nine years coroner for the division and clerk to magistrates, May 10, 1818.
Murray, Adam, of Rose Hill, June 26, 1818, aged 52.
Markland, Rev. John, M.A., December 15, 1819.
Murray, James, M.D., of Medlock Bank, July 29, 1821.
Mallory, Rev. J. H., fellow of the Collegiate Church and rector of Mobberley, May 25, 1832.
Milne, John, esq., coroner for the division, June 28, 1832. -
M“All, Rev. Robert Stevens, LL.D., minister of the Independent Chapel, Mosley Street, July 27, 1838, aged 45.
NoRREYs, HENRY, esq., of Davy Hulme Hall, March 17, 1819.
Norris, James, esq., chairman of Salford Hundred Quarter-Sessions, January 19, 1838, aged 63.
Nunn, Rev. William, twenty-two years minister of St. Clement's Church, March 9, 1840.
Norreys, Robert J. J., magistrate and deputy-lieutenant, Davy Hulme Hall, December 13, 1844, aged 60.
Neild, William, Mayfield Print-works, second mayor of Manchester, April 4, 1864.
OGDEN, JAMES, poetical writer (“British Lion roused,” etc.), August 13, 1802.
Okey, John, adjutant of volunteers and militia, May 10, 1820. - -
Ogden, William, printer, last surviving son of “Poet Ogden” (Canning’s “revered and ruptured Ogden") February 3, 1822.
Ormerod, Elizabeth, relict of George Ormerod, Esq. of Bury, and mother of the historian, May 13, 1822, aged 69.
Oldfield, Benjamin, of the “White Bear,” Piccadilly (the “Peter Pindar” of Lancashire), April 26, 1841.
Owens, John, by will left a large sum to found Owens College, July 29, 1846. -
POPE, Rev. JoHN, minister of a dissenting congregation at Blackley, and author, October 28, 1802.
Percival, Thomas, M.D., president of Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, August 30, 1804.
Philips, Nathaniel, esq. of Stand in Pilkington, September 29, 1808, aged 82.
Philips, Thomas, esq., father of Sir George Philips, 1811, aged 83.
Prescott, John, printer of the Manchester Journal, April 13, 1811, aged 79.
Phillips, John Leigh, esq. of Mayfield, naturalist, bibliographer, etc., June 23, 1814, aged 53.
Paynter, David William, poet, author of a novel and three tragedies, March 15, 1823. -
Pedley, Rev. James, forty years of St. Thomas's, Pendleton, and a master in Free Grammar School, June 28, 1825, aged 78.
Parry, Joseph, marine painter, etc., May 11, 1826.
#umbrel of $alfort—ftſamtſcătºr #arisiſ. 421
Parry, D. H., artist of great local celebrity, September 15, 1826.
Price, Thomas, fustian-manufacturer, Marsden Square, murdered at mid-day and warehouse burned, February 10, 1826.
Peel, Sir Robert (the first baronet), many years a merchant and manufacturer in Manchester, May 3, 1830.
Phillips, Nathaniel George, esq., eldest son of J. L. Phillips of Mayfield, amateur artist, etc., August 1, 1831.
Phillips, John, lieutenant R.N., last Surviving Son of J. L. Phillips, June 2, 1835.
Patrick, James, printer of race-lists and cards, etc., December 11, 1837.
Phillips, Charles, M.D., physician to the Infirmary, December 24, 1837.
|Perkins, John Henry, first superintendent of the Lancasterian School, January 21, 1837, aged 63.
Potter, Richard, esq., M.P. for Wigan, and brother of Sir Thomas Potter, July 13, 1842.
Pigot, James (of Pigot and Slater), compiler of the “National Directory,” February 15, 1843, aged 74.
Philips, Robert, esq. of the Park, son of Nathaniel, and father of Mark and R. N. Philips, March 14, 1844, aged 84.
Potter, Sir Thomas, of Buile Hill, knight, first (and twice) mayor of Manchester, March 20, 1845, aged 70.
Palmer, John, architect, author of “The Siege of Manchester” and “Description of Collegiate Church,” Aug. 23, 1846, aged 64.
Peel, Sir Robert (the statesman and premier), July 2, 1850.
Prentice, Archibald, proprietor and editor of the Manchester Times, and on the council of the League, December 24, 1857, aged 64.
Potter, Sir John (M.P. Manchester), thrice mayor of Manchester, at Beech House, Pendleton, October 25, 1858, aged 43.
Parkinson, Rev. Richard, D.D., Canon of Manchester and Principal of St. Bees College, January 28, 1858.
RASBOTHAM, Rev. DoRNING, Fellow of the Collegiate Church, July 18, 1804.
Robinson, Lavinia, of Bridge Street, drowned December 16, 1813; body found February 8, 1814.
Roby, Nehemiah, father of Rev. William Roby, December 1815, aged 79.
Robinson, James Banks, R.N., pilot of the fleet at battles of Nile and Trafalgar, 1819, aged 70.
Bushforth, Richard, esq. of Hunt's Bank, a collector in fine arts, May 24, 1821.
Richardson, Mrs. Sarah, widow, of the Mount, Dickenson Street, 1826, aged 101.
Rowlinson, Thomas, poetical writer, drowned while bathing in the Thames, June 22, 1829.
Roby, Rev. William, minister of Grosvenor Street Independent Chapel, January 11, 1830, aged 63.
Robinson, Charles, shot in Oxford Road on his way home, May 20, 1830. -
Ralston, James, Brazennose Street, artist, November 1833. -
Randall, Rev. Moses, chaplain of Collegiate Church, March 5, 1834, aged 65.
Radcliffe, John (boroughreeve in 1809-10), December 2, 1836.
Ransome, John Atkinson, senior surgeon to Manchester Infirmary, February 10, 1837, aged 57.
Rose, Robert (the “Bard of Colour”), June 19, 1849.
Ridgway, J. W., solicitor, January 25, 1851. s'
Robberds, Rev. John Gooch, minister of Cross Street Chapel forty years, April 21, 1854.
Radford, Joshua (of Radfords and Waddington) secretary to the Infirmary, collector of engravings, autographs, etc., Sept. 5, 1857.
SOWLER, THOMAS, printer and bookseller, grandfather of Messrs. R. S., Thomas, and John Sowler, of the Courier, June 5, 1802.
Sudlow, William, music-dealer, Hanging Ditch, father of William Sudlow, organist, October 1802.
Shore, John, esq. of Ardwick, a benefactor to various charities, March 16, 1826, aged 84.
Sharpe, John, esq., F.R.S., F.S.A. (of Sharpe, Eccles, & Cririe, solicitors), May 28, 1834.
Sergeant, William, esq. (of Sergeant & Milne, solicitors), October 27, 1834. -
Seddon, Lieutenant-General, served in East Indies, Russia, Egypt, and the Peninsula, May 18, 1839, aged 78.
Sharp, William, esq., George Street, February 23, 1841, aged 87. - -
Sharp, Thomas, senior member of Sharp, Roberts, & Co., engineers, May 20, 1841.
Schwabe, Louis, silk-manufacturer and embroiderer, Suicide, January 11, 1845.
Smith, Joseph, esq. of Strangeways Hall, April 3, 1845. -
Smith, James, bookseller and publisher of Manchester Almanack, St. Ann's Place and Square, suicide, July 1, 1847.
Sturgeon, William, electrician, author of “Scientific Researches,” etc., December 8, 1850, aged 67.
Schwabe, Salis, of Crumpsall House and Glyn Garth, Menai, and Rhodes Print-works, July 23, 1853, aged 53.
Stowell, Rev. Hugh, rector of Christ Church, Salford, and honorary canon of Manchester, October 8, 1865.
TATE —, portrait and landscape painter, a favourite pupil of Wright of Derby, July 1806.
Trafford, Edmund, lieutenant 1st Dragoons, December 18, 1813, at Trafford Park.
Trafford, John, esq. of Trafford Park, October 29, 1815.
Taylor, Charles, M.D., secretary to Society of Arts, August 24, 1816.
Taylor, John, schoolmaster of Friends' School, father of Mr. J. E. Taylor, first proprietor of Manchester Guardian, June 3, 1817.
Thorpe, John, forty-five years a preacher in the Society of Friends, September 30, 1817, aged 75.
Terry, Charles, governor of Chetham's Hospital, June 1818.
Taylor, Samuel, esq. of Moston, magistrate, and lieut.-col. Manchester and Salford Rifle Volunteers, Oct. 29, 1820, aged 48.
Thorpe, Edward Hall, lieutenant R.N. (son of Robert Thorpe, surgeon), May 26, 1821.
Touchett, James, esq., January 1, 1827, aged 84.
Thompson, Richard, esq., magistrate and deputy-lieutenant, November 29, 1827.
Thorpe, John, King Street, surgeon to Manchester Infirmary twenty-eight years, July 2, 1833, aged 69.
Trafford, Miss Clementina (sister to Sir Thomas), March 30, 1834, aged 51.
Tavaré, Charles, knew nine languages, and deeply read in European literature, May 28, 1835, aged 63.
Thomas, Joseph Sadler, deputy-constable of Manchester eight years, October 11, 1841. -
Taylor, John Edward, first proprietor and principal editor of Manchester Guardian, January 6, 1844, aged 52.
Trafford, de, Thomas William, second son of Sir T. J. Trafford, Bart., May 7, 1844.
Taylor, Russell Scott, esq., B.A. (eldest Son of Mr. J. E. Taylor), of the Manchester Guardian, September 16, 1848, aged 25.
Thorpe, Robert, Surgeon to the Manchester Infirmary, January 1851.
Trafford, Sir Thomas Joseph de, November 10, 1852.
Turner, James Aspinall, M.P. for Manchester, 1859-1865–September 28, 1867, aged 70.
WALKER, ROBERT, “Tim Bobbin the Second,” May 8, 1803, aged 75. *
Wood, Nathaniel, “Patten Nat” of Hanging Bridge, patten-maker, June 1, 1804, aged 60.
Walker, Rev. George, President of Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, April 11, 1807, aged 71.
Whitaker, Rey. John, B.D., historian of Manchester, and thirty years rector of Ruan Lanyhorne, October 30, 1808, aged 73.
Worrall, Philip, peruke-maker, of Ardwick, April 1811.
White, Charles, M.D., F.R.S., etc., eminent surgeon, King Street, February 20, 1813, aged 84.
Wilton, first earl of (Thomas Egerton), a liberal benefactor to local charities, September 23, 1814, aged 65.
422 (Iije #igtorg of £ancašijire.
Wilton, Eleanor, countess of, at Heaton House, February 3, 1816, aged 67.
Walker, Thomas, esq., father of C. J. S. Walker, esq., February 2, 1817. 4
Watson, James (“The Doctor”), writer, drowned in the Mersey near Didsbury, June 24, 1820.
Wrigley, Rev. Miles, twenty-eight years curate of St. Michael's, May 12, 1821, aged 75.
Wheeler, Charles, proprietor of Manchester Chronicle, September 26, 1827, aged 76.
Walker, John, esq. (“Old Strike-a-light”), cotton-merchant, December 26, 1827.
Wright, Martha, widow of Thomas Wright, esq. of Broughton, benefactress to charities, February 26, 1829, aged 82.
Woodywis, Francis, currier, a miser, amassed nearly £100,000, May 1, 1830, aged 72.
Wright, Ralph, esq. of Flixton, magistrate, November 16, 1831, aged 80.
Wheeler, Charles Henry, eldest son of Mr. John Wheeler of Manchester Chronicle, May 4, 1833.
Whitelocke, Rev. Richard Hutchins, many years postmaster of Manchester, August 14, 1833.
Ward, Michael, M.D., surgeon to Manchester Infirmary, February 21, 1833.
Walker, Rev. Manning, minister and registrar of Manchester General Burial-ground, December 23, 1833, aged 49.
Whatton, William Robert, F.R.S., F.A.S., surgeon, antiquarian, topographical and biographical writer, December 5, 1835.
Ward, Thomas A., joint-manager (with Mr. Lewis) of the Manchester and Liverpool theatres, December 1, 1835, aged 86.
Walker, Thomas, M.A., London police magistrate, author of “The Original,” January 20, 1836, aged 52.
Weld, Captain Benjamin, paymaster of 29th Regiment, served twenty-four years, November 9, 1836, aged 54.
Ward, Andrew, professor of music, and leader of Theatre Royal Orchestra, October 6, 1838, aged 49. J
Wyatt, Henry, artist and portrait-painter, pupil of Sir Thomas Lawrence, February 27, 1840, aged 45.
Wroe, James, bookseller, Ancoats, and many years a commissioner of police, August 1844.
Wood, George William (M.P., Kendal), F.F.S., L.G.S., and V.P. of Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society, October 3, 1843.
Wroe, Thomas, comptroller under Manchester police commissioners, and afterwards manager of the gas-works, April 23 1845.
Wilton, countess of (Margaret), December 1858. 2
Warren, Rev. Dr., rector of All Souls, Ancoats, May 23, 1862.

YATES, William, a partner of the first Sir Robert Peel, died July 10, 1813, aged 73.
Young, Mrs., wife of Charles M. Young, tragedian, and then manager of the Theatre Royal, Manchester, July 11, 1856.
Among Educational Institutions are the Lancashire Independent College, Whalley Range; the Wesleyan
College, Didsbury; the Roman Catholic Collegiate Institute, Grosvenor Square; the Church of England
Educational Society, Royal Insurance Buildings, King Street; the Manchester District Warehousemen and
Clerks' Orphan Schools, Essex Chambers, Essex Street; the Manchester Adult Deaf and Dumb Society (in
connection with the Deaf and Dumb School, Old Trafford), 6 John Dalton Street; the Manchester and
Salford Deaf and Dumb Association, 54 Dale Street, Oldham Street; the Manchester and Salford Ragged
School Union, 104 Market Street ; the Ragged, and Certified Industrial Schools, 24 Ardwick Green ; the
Ragged School, 13 Broughton Road, Salford, etc.'
* The above paragraph was accidentally omitted page 393.
#umbrel ºf Šalfort—33 ſtom-umber-3 gnt #aris), 423
ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE PARISH.
~ºr; A N
f gº OR many ages the pursuits of the inhabitants of the parish of Ashton were almost exclusively
º % agricultural. The feudal system prevailed in all its degrading servility. The iron sway of
ºlºgº the lord suffered no relaxation, but from the mildness of the disposition by which it was
§§§ % º occasionally exercised; and the villani socagii, or the tenants-at-will, were little better than
º
+
*.
§
2.<ſº
-
&
tº serfs of the soil. The progress of civilisation served to introduce a new and improved state
Yºj of things; and manufactures and commerce, while they have rendered the labours of the
husbandman no longer primary in this district, have conferred a freedom of action and a freedom of sentiment
on the lowest classes of society that would not, when Sir John of Assheton first settled at the manor-house,
have been endured in any description of men inferior in station to the family of the feudatory head. If the
work of the labourer in the fields was then less protracted than is now the labour in the castle-like edifices
erected upon their sites, his food was at the same time inferior, his clothing more scanty, his dwelling
meaner, and his furniture more humble. That most important part of society, the middle class, if it had
then fewer cares had undoubtedly fewer comforts, and the house without a chimney, the straw bed with a
wooden pillow, and the windows without glass, must have subjected the family of even the Lancashire free-
holder to privations known only to the most destitute of his countrymen in modern times.
The name of Ashton is evidently of Saxon origin, being a compound of ſesc, an ash, and tun, an enclosed
place or town, which accounts for its earliest recorded orthography of Estun, in the Testa de Nevill. The
terminative addition Subius lineam, is found in the ancient deeds of the lord of the manor, and hence it is
called Ashton-under-Lyne, from being below the line or boundary of Cheshire. The appellation is adopted
to distinguish this place from Ashton-upon-Mersey, Ashton-in-Makerfeld, and other Ashtons, as Newcastle-
under-Lyne is so called to distinguish it from Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Like all the other manors of Lancashire
between the Ribble and the Mersey, this demesne was granted by William the Conqueror to Roger de
Poictou, by whom it was forfeited to the crown; from which this manor was granted to Robert de Greslet,
lord of Mamecestre; and subsequently it passed into the hands of Thomas de la Warre, lord of Manchester.
From a very careful and critical examination of original evidences, Dr. Ormerod, the historian of Cheshire,
has shown that the manor of Ashton was not really held by an Assheton by any known authentic deed
before a charter of free-warren of 9 Edward III. (1335). An indenture, dated February 1413, states that
the manor then held by Sir John Assheton was held, 12 Edward I. (1283-4), immediately from the lords of
Mamecestre, not by the Asshetons but by the ancestors of Sir Richard de Kirkby; and in 5 Henry VI. (1427)
the Asshetons held, as a Sub-infeudation under Kirkby, “by fealty and one penny rent.” This manor
continued in the Assheton family from 1335 until the death of Sir Thomas Assheton, 7 Henry VIII. (1515),
when it passed in marriage with Margaret, his eldest daughter and co-heiress, to Sir William Booth, of
Dunham Massey, the ancestor of George Harry, earl of Stamford and Warren, the present lord of the
manor.” Some fines of a very early date are preserved in the Chapter-House Record Office, relating to lands
and messuages in this manor.”
In the first year of the duchy of Lancaster (25 Edward III., 1351, for so the instrument is dated), John
de Radcliffe senior appears as plaintiff against Hugh de Toft and Alicia his wife, deforceants of the messuages
and lands in Ashton which William de Moston held. In 4 An. Duc. 1354 (29 Edward III.), John de Radclif,
parson of the church of Bury, is plaintiff against John Asshelegh and Ellen his wife, deforceants of messuages
and lands in Ashton; and from the rolls of Pedes Finium, from the 1st to 11th Henry, duke of Lancaster
(1351 to 1361), it will be seen that a final agreement was made in the duke's court at Preston between Roger
la Warre, knight, and Alianora his wife, plaintiffs, and John la Warre, knight, and John Wyke, deforceants of
the manor of Manchester, and the advowsons of the churches of Manchester and Ashton. The conditions of
the tenure of Ashton seem to have been frequently altered by the barons of Manchester: in the first instance
the lands were held by the annual payment of a rent of ten shillings; in 13 Henry IV. (1412), Thomas de
la Warre having conveyed an interest in the manor of Manchester to Thomas Longley, bishop of Durham,
Sir William Thyrning and others, Sir John de Ashton has a grant (by indenture of the bishop, and the rest
1. It appears from the rent-roll of the lord of the manor, in 1422, * Notitia Cestriensis, note by Rev. Canon Raines, vi. 3.
that the rent of a labourer's cottage did not then exceed one shil- - -
ling a-year. 8 Bundel. Rot. Ped. Finium de Com. Lanc. temp. Edward III,







424 (Iije Đígtorg of £antaghirt.
holding the manor of Ashton, with its appurtenances, in the county of Lancaster, of Thomas lord la Warre,
lord of Manchester, by fealty, and the service of rendering annually twenty-two shillings and one hawk, or
forty shillings and a contribution called putura, to the maintenance of the foresters of Horwich and Blakeley,
as part of the manor of Manchester) of View of Frankpledge, tolls, etc., and of a remission, after the death
of Thomas la Warre, of all the rent and render save one penny yearly, as appears more at large from a
document in the Harleian Collection, codex 4900, fo. C, of which the following is an abstract —
To all, etc., Thomas Longley, bishop of Durham, William Thyryning, knight, John Heneage, Nicholas Mott, parson of the church of
Swineshead, Richard Lumbard, parson of the church of Holthyn, William Auncell, John Overton, and Richard Fryth, greeting : Whereas
John de Assheton, knight, hath held the manor of Ashton, with appurtenances, in Co. Lancaster, of Thomas, Lord la Warre, lord of
Mamecestre, by fealty and the service of rendering yearly 22s, one hawk, or 40s. for the puture of the foresters of Horwich and Blackley,
as of the manor of Mamecestre, which manor the said Thomas la Warre holds for his life, of our grant, the reversion whereof at his death
belonging to us and our heirs. Within which manor of Mamecestre and Ashton, as well the same Thomas la Warre and his ancestors, as
we and those we have put in our places in the said manor, have, and have had for time beyond memory, View of Frankpledge and whatever
to it belongs, toll, picage and stallage, as much as belongs to the said manor. Know ye that we have granted to the said John de Assheton,
his heirs and assigns, all our estate in View of Frankpledge, and in all things appertaining, of all the tenants and residents within the
manor of Ashton and the will of Ashton, together with picage and stallage within the said manor and will. And further, We will and
grant, as much as in us is, that the said John de Assheton and heirs, after the death of the said Thomas la Warre, may have for ever, within
the said manor and will of Ashton, of all the tenants and inhabitants, View of Frankpledge, toll, etc., as freely and entirely as the said
Thomas, Lord la Warre, and his ancestors, had, or as we now have, in the manor of Mamecestre, to our exclusion, etc. And further, we
grant that, after the death of the said Thomas la Warre, the said John de Assheton and heirs may be quit and exonerated from 21s. 11d. Of
the said rent of 22s., and of the render of the aforesaid hawk. So that the said John de Assheton, etc., may hold the said manor of Ashton,
with appurtenances, of us, etc. after the death of the said Thomas, Lord la Warre, by fealty and a rent of one penny, to be paid yearly at
the Nativity of St. John Baptist (June 24), and by the service of giving puture to the said foresters, for [or instead of] all other services;
which said rent of 21s, 11d, and the said hawk we now remit and release, [To One counterpart the granters set their seals, to the other
John de Assheton sets his...] Witnesses Ralph de Stanley, knight, John de Pilkyngton, knight, John de Hilton, Richard de Radclyff,
Adam de Lever, and others. Given at Swineshead, on St. Matthew the Apostle's day (September 21), in the 13th year of the reign of
Henry IV. (1412). -
In 1st Henry W. (1413), an indenture of confirmation was made and executed by the same bishop, John
Heneage, and others.
As the manor of Ashton was held of the chief lord, the baron of Manchester, so the church of Ashton
was appendant to that of Manchester anterior to 1304. “Thomas Grelle gave to Peter de Grelle, his son,
his churches of Manchester and Childwall, with the chapels of Ashton, Hale, and Garston, to the said churches
appertaining.” It had obtained the rank of a parish church, however, before 1291, when “the church of
Ashton” was valued at £10 per annum. In a roll of pleadings of 32 Edward I. (1304), it is stated that
William de Marchia, parson of the church of Manchester, to which the chapel of Ashton is annexed, is bishop
of Bath and Wells; Thomas Grelle being at that time under age; and William de Langton, parson of Man-
chester, afterwards in like manner held the chapel of Ashton, and was made bishop of Coventry and Lichfield.
“Thomas Grelle says that the chapel of Ashton is dependent upon the church of Manchester, and that his
father Robert Grelle was patron of the churches of Manchester and Ashton, and that he was under age at
the time of the death of the said Robert his father, and that William de Marchia, of his own act and deed,
usurped it, while he (Thomas) was under age.”
We find, from an original charter in the possession of Sir Oswald Mosley, bart, that in 2 Edward II.
(1309), Thomas Grelle gave and granted to Sir John le Warre, knight, and to Joan his wife, sister of the said
Thomas, and to their heirs, the manor of Mamecestre with appurtenances, with the advowson of the churches
of Asschtone and Mamcestre, and all the “villeins and their families,” lands, etc., subject to an annual pay-
ment during his life of one hundred marks (£66 : 13:4). -
In the extent of the barony of Manchester in 15 Edward II. (1322), the church of Ashton is valued at
forty marks (£26 : 13:4), (in Pope Nicholas's Valor Beneficiorum, of 1292, before which time it was separated
from the parent stock, it is valued at fifteen marks or £10), and was in the presentation of the lord (of
|Manchester), who last presented Simon de Craneslegh, who being instituted possessed that endowment.” In
5 Henry VI. (1427), Thomas de la Warre gave to Sir John de Ashton, K.B., and his heirs for ever, one rod
of land, parcel of the manor of Ashton, in a certain field called Smithfield, together with the church of
Assheton, the said John de Ashton holding the manor of Asheton-under-Lyne of Richard de Kirkby, knight,
by the payment of one penny, and that Richard holding it of Thomas de la Warre.” In 7 Henry VIII.
(1515), Thomas Ashton died seised of the manor of Ashton and the advowson of the church."
RECTORY OF ASHTON.—Estimated value in Tax. Eccl. Pope Nicholas, £10; estimated value in the Liber
Regis, £26 : 13:4. -
The Ashton family were distinguished by the favour of their sovereigns at an early period of British
history. Sir Robert de Assheton, the son of John de Assheton, who was returned to serve in the great
council at Westminster, in 1324, held several high appointments under the crown. In 1359, on the invasion
of France by Edward III., he was appointed captain or governor of Guynes near Calais; four years afterwards
he was witness to a charter to Edmund de Langele, as lord-treasurer of England, and in 1368 he was
1 Kuerden's MS. ii. 282. * Harl. MSS. cod. 2085, fo. 416. 3 Harl. MSS. cod. 2085, fo. 410.
* Duchy Records, vol. iv. Inquis, post Mortem, 7 Henry VIII, num, 80.
3#umbren of $alfort—33 ſtom-umber-3 gme #arish. 425
governor of Sandgate in the neighbourhood of Calais; in 1369 he was appointed admiral of the narrow seas,
and three years afterwards he received the highly responsible station of justiciary of Ireland; in 1373 he
was treasurer of England, and in the two following years he was successively the king's chamberlain and
chancellor of the exchequer. Such was the confidence of his sovereign Edward III. in this statesman, that
in his will he appointed Sir Robert one of his executors; and in the fourth year of the reign of his successor
(1380-1), Sir Robert was appointed governor of Dover Castle and Warden of the Cinque Ports. While in
this situation he was overtaken by death (January 9, 1384), and buried in the church within the castle,
with his portraiture as a knight inlaid with brass on a marble slab. Thomas de Asheton his son fought
under Queen Philippa in the battle of Neville's Cross, 1346, when he captured the royal standard of Scotland;
but though it was usual to reward extraordinary feats of bravery with the honour of knighthood, this honour
does not appear to have been conferred upon him, since we find him styled esquire in the royal letters of
protection granted to him in 1385, as one of the retinue of John of Gaunt, in his expedition into Spain."
Sir John de Assheton seems to have displayed knightly qualities worthy of his progenitors. Froissart, the
historian of chivalry, relates one of his adventures, which partook strongly of the spirit of the age in which
he lived.” Sir John was one of the forty-six esquires who were summoned by Henry, duke of Lancaster, to
receive knighthood by the bath, on the eve of his coronation. In 1417 the gallant knight was appointed
seneschal of Bayeux, and in 1419 he was governor of Hadupais and bailiff of Constance.
In the wars between the houses of York and Lancaster, the Asshetons espoused the Lancastrian cause ;
it was not, however, in the field, but in the laboratory, that Sir Thomas Assheton, the head of the family,
wished to serve his sovereign. Having associated himself with Sir Edmund Trafford of Trafford, these sage
alchymists laboured incessantly to relieve the king from the pressure of his financial difficulties by the
discovery of the philosopher's Stone. But before the principle of transmutation could be ascertained, the
unfortunate monarch was relieved from all his temporal cares, and the knights themselves slept the sleep of
death in the midst of their golden dreams.” Sir John, the son of Sir Thomas Assheton, fought by the side
of his sovereign in the battle of Northampton in 1460, and, in the next generation, the issue of the house of
Assheton failing in the male line, the manor and estates of Ashton-under-Lyne passed by marriage of Margaret
Assheton, about 1516, to Sir William Booth of Dunham Massey, the ancestor of the earl of Stamford and War-
rington, and are now possessed by the present (the seventh) earl. Sir George Booth, one of his descendants,
was created a baronet by James I. on the 22d of May 1611, being the tenth person who received that
honour. His second son, George, succeeded to the baronetage in 1622, and was a warm supporter of the
interest of parliament in the civil wars. His grandson, Sir George, who was more attached to the royal
than the republican cause, embodied an army in Cheshire, in the year 1659, ostensibly for the purpose of
obtaining “a free parliament,” but in reality, for the purpose of restoring the Stuarts. This insurrection
having failed, the attempt to restore monarchy was not resumed till the death of Oliver Cromwell, when Sir
George Booth formed one of a deputation for inviting Charles II. to assume the throne of England; and after
the Restoration he was elevated to the peerage, under the title of Baron Delamere of Dunham Massey. The
first Lord Delamere died on the 8th of August 1684, and was succeeded in his title and estates by his son
Henry, the second lord. This young nobleman had scarcely taken his seat in the House of Peers before he
was committed to the Tower, and arraigned at the bar of the Lords on a charge of high treason." The
impeachment charged his lordship with conspiring with “Charles Gerrard, esq., and other false traitors, to
dethrone his majesty James II., with assembling to make war in the county of Chester, and with a design to
seize the city of Chester, and the castle of the said city.” In support of this charge, a wretch named Saxon
was called, who had evidently been suborned to give false evidence; and who deposed that Lord Delamere
had sent for him to his lordship's house at Mere, and had despatched him with a message to the duke of
|Monmouth, to inform his grace that 10,000 men would be raised in Cheshire, but that the rising must be
delayed from the 1st of June till midsummer. Though the lord-chancellor, Jefferies, presided as lord high.
steward, and though the trial took place before a select number of the peers, amounting to twenty-seven, and
not before the whole house, the noble baron, by the unanimous decision of his judges, was pronounced not
guilty. Four years afterwards, on the arrival of the Prince of Orange in England, Lord Delamere raised a
considerable force in Cheshire and Lancashire, in support of the Revolution, and his lordship, accompanied
by the marquis of Halifax and the earl of Shrewsbury, was the bearer of a message to James II.' requiring
him to quit his palace and abdicate his throne. Two years afterwards his lordship was created earl of
1 Rymer's Foedera, tom. ix. p. 425.
* Tom. i. p. 363.
* Sir Thomas Ashton preferred a claim to picage (a consideration
payable to the lord, for breaking ground, for setting up stalls, etc.,
in fairs) in this reign. “Ashton-under-Lyne. —Tho. Ashton,
knight, hath view of Frankpledge, twice a-year, of all his tenants
resiant within his manor of Ashton-under-Lyne, and hath one weekly
fair on Monday, at the said manor, waif, Stray, toll, picage and
stallage, two fairs or markets at the said manor, to be held one on
the 1st and 2d July, the other on the Eve and Feast of St. Martin in
winter (November 10 and 11).”—Kuerden, 4to MS., fo. 54.
* It appears from the Inquisition post mortem, 22 Eliz. (1580),
num. 26, Duchy Records, vol. xiv., 32 Eliz. (1590), num. 39, Ibid.
vol. XV., that the manor of Ashton, and the advowson of its church,
were temporarily possessed by Thomas Hoghton.—(See also Ducat.
Lanc. vol. i. pp. 52, 58.) .
5 April 20, 1661.
7 December 17, 1688.
* January 14, 1685.
3 I
426 (The ºigturn of £antašijire.
Warrington, in the county palatine of Lancaster; but in the next generation the earldom became extinct
from failure of male issue. Mary, the daughter and sole heir of George Booth, the last earl of Warrington,
married" Harry Grey, the fourth earl of Stamford, who was succeeded by his son George Harry, in 1768,
created baron Delamere and earl of Warrington, April 22, 1796, and who was, on the 23d of May 1819,
succeeded by his son George Harry Grey, earl of Stamford and Warrington, etc., who was succeeded in 1845
by his grandson (son of Lord Grey of Groby who died in 1855) George Harry Grey, seventh and present
earl of Stamford and Warrington, Baron Grey of Groby, Baron Bouville and Harrington, Baron Delamere of
Dunham Massey in the county of Chester, and the present lord of the manor of Ashton-under-Lyne. His
lordship holds a court-leet and court-baron half-yearly in May and November, in the ancient manor court-
house, near the old market-cross, in which his agent presides as judge, and takes strict cognisance of all
breaches of agreement amongst the tenants of the manor, more especially amongst those residing outside the
boundaries of the municipal boroughs of Ashton-under-Lyne and Stalybridge, in regard to the repair of roads,
fences, and tenements, and the proper drainage and cultivation of the land. At the court held in November,
a mayor, 3 constables, 4 assistant-constables, 24 jurymen, 12 bye-law-men, 2 bailiffs, 2 pounders, 3 affeerors, one
inspector of weights and measures, 2 market-lookers, 3 ale-tasters, and 2 bellmen, are still annually appointed,
who are found in this manor to be very useful in the correction of grievances to the extent of forty shil-
lings, though courts of the kind have generally fallen into desuetude in other parts of the county.
A singular custom prevails here, of so much antiquity that its origin is not known with any degree of
certainty. The ceremony takes place on Easter Monday in every year, and it is popularly called Riding the
Black Lad. So conflicting are the traditions as to the cause of this exhibition, that one version attaches to it
infamy, and another represents it as honourable to the ancient dominant family. According to the former it
is meant as a perpetual expression of popular abhorrence towards the memory of Sir Ralph Assheton; but the
latter supposition is that, in some way not very easy to be conceived, this ceremony is intended as a mark of
honour towards the hero of Neville's Cross. The late Dr. Hibbert-Ware, who wrote an able Dissertation
relating to the Manor and Usages of Ashton-under-Lyne, conjectures that the origin of this ceremony is to
be found in a species of ancient manorial perambulation which formerly took place in the northern parts of
England, and is still kept up in some of the parishes of Scotland, called guld-riding, the object of which is to
extirpate a kind of pernicious weed with a yellow flower, and on this inspection every farmer was liable to
forfeit a wether sheep for each stock of guld that was found growing in his corn. In the days of John de
Assheton a large portion of the low land in the vicinity of Ashton, named Sour Carr, was overrun with these
corn-marigolds, and it was determined to enforce the old law.
“It appears,” says Dr. Hibbert-Ware, “that Ralph of Assheton, the son of Sir John, became, by his alliance with a rich heiress,
the lord of the neighbouring manor of Middleton, and soon afterwards received the honour of knighthood, being at the same time
entrusted with the office of vice-chancellor to Henry VI.” and, it is added, of lieutenant of the Tower. Invested with such authority
he committed violent excesses in this part of the kingdom. In retaining also for life the privilege granted of guld-riding, he, on a
certain day in the spring, made his appearance in this manor, clad in black armour (whence his name of the Black Lad), mounted
on a charger, and attended by a numerous train of his followers, in order to levy the penalty arising from the neglect of clearing
the land from carr gulds. The interference of so powerful a knight could not but be regarded by the tenants of Assheton as
tyrannical, and the name of the Black Lad is at present regarded with no other sentiment than that of horror.4 Tradition has,
indeed, still perpetuated the prayer that was fervently ejaculated for a deliverance from his tyranny—
“Sweet Jesu, for thy mercy's sake,
And for thy bitter passion,
Save us from the axe of the Tower,
And from Sir Ralph of Assheton.”
Locally the two last lines are frequently recited thus—
“Oh save me from a burning stake,
And from Sir Raphe de Assheton.”
“Upon the death of the guld-rider of Assheton, Sir John's heir and successor abolished the usage for ever; and reserved from
the estate a small sum of money (formerly 10s, now 5s.) for the purpose of perpetuating, in an annual ceremony, the dreaded annual
visits of the black knight. This is kept up at the present day. An effigy is made of a man in armour, and the image is deridingly
emblazoned with some emblem of the occupation of the first couple that are linked together in the course of the year. The black
boy is then fixed on horseback ; and, after being led in procession through the town, is dismounted, made to supply the place of a
shooting-butt ; and, all firearms being in requisition for the occasion, he is put to an ignominious death.”
An ancient document has been preserved, under the designation of a “Custom Roll and Rental of the
Manor of Assheton-under-Lyne,” which casts much light on the early customs and manners of this parish.
1 May 1736.
* Printed in the Archæologica Scotica, vol. ii. p. 407, and a few
copies struck off from its type, of which one is in Chetham's Lib-
rary.—H.
3 The form of this commission is preserved in Rymer's Foedera.
* Douce, in his M.S. notes, says, “They have a custom at Ashton-
under-Lyne, on the 16th of April, of shooting the Black Lad on
horseback. It is said to have arisen from there having been for-
merly a black knight, who resided in these parts, holding the people
in vassalage, and using them with great severity.”
5 The practice of shooting the effigy of the Black Lad (or Lord)
has been discontinued for at least a century, and the habiliments of
black velvet and steel armour are carefully preserved from year to
year for exhibition by the promoters of the cavalcade, who usually
reap a rich harvest by the Easter Monday procession, from gifts by
the innkeepers and others. Easter Monday has from time immemorial
been held as a general holiday in Ashton; the factories and workshops
being all closed, while special railway trains from a large district in
Lancashire and Yorkshire swell the Ordinary population to more
than double its number.—H.
#umbrel of $alfort—33 ſtom-umber-£gme #arisiſ. 427
Though not differing materially from the customs of other manors in Lancashire, there is here a minuteness
of detail which interests while it informs, and exhibits at once a state of society before “service ’’ was com-
muted into money, and when local authority preceded national law. It bears date on the Feast of St. Martin,
1 Henry VI. (November 11, 1422).
According to this authority, all the socage tenants, or tenants at will of the lordship of Ashton, took their
tenements for twenty years, subject to conditions; as, 1st, to render certain services to the lord; 2d, to con-
tribute a prescribed sum towards a Yule * (or Christmas-day) feast, to be held in the lord's mansion, and at
which they and their wives were guests; 3d, to plough and harrow in the lord's land a certain number of days
in the year; 4th, to lead a fixed quantity of turf from the moss to the baronial residence ; 5th, to shear four
days in harvest, and cart corn one day, and to grind their corn at the lord's soke-mill, subject to a grist or
multure of 1-16th part of the grain so ground; 6th, to pay their rents half-yearly (June 24 and November 11);
and, 7th, to pay a principal, or heriot, of the best beast (next after the mortuary beast to Holy Kirk) at the death
of the head of the family. The free-tenants, or freeholders, of the manor, without rendering any servile service,
were required to pay an annual acknowledgment for their lands and tenements to the lord, varying in amount
from 7s. 1d., the sum paid by John of the Heghrode for his tenements, to “a rose,” the acknowledgment made
by Richard of Bardesley for Bardesley. Amongst the tenants at will are found rustic names, or appellations,
showing the origin of many of the surnames of the parish: these names are—“William the Walker” (i.e. Fuller),
“Roger the Smith,” “Nanne of the Windebanke,” “John Ffulstaffe,” “Syssot, that was the wife of Thomas the
Cook,”:Roger the Baxter” (or Baker), “William the Arrowsmith,” “Jack the Spencer,” “Elyn the Rose,” “Jenkyn
of the Wood,” “William the Cocker,” “Jack the Mercer,” “Jack the Hind,” “John the Slater,” “Roger the
Cropper,” “Robert the Wright,” and “John the Byron, Knight.” The Christmas hospitality of the lord of
the soil, where the tenants were required to pay for their own dinners, resembled the hospitality of the inn-
keepers of the present day; though, no doubt, the former presided at the elevated dais in the baronial hall
with much more dignity and authority than the latter now preside at their own tables.” As to the other
services, they are sufficiently intelligible, and call for no observation, except that the farmers of the present
day would often feel inclined to discharge the steward's claim by the plough and the harrow, when a less
attainable currency is not forthcoming. The obnoxious feudal heriot, consisting of the best beast on the
farm, required to be given to the lord on the death of the farmer, was a cruel and untimely exaction, in
illustration of which there are many traditionary stories in the manor of Ashton, and, no doubt, in other
manors.” The priest, as well as the lord of the manor, claimed his heriot, called a mortuary in these early
times, on the death of his parishioners, as a kind of expiation for the personal tithes which the deceased in
his lifetime had neglected to pay, and, for this purpose, after the lord's heriot, or best beast, was taken, the
Second best was to be given to the church. But, by the custom of the manor of Ashton, this order was
reversed, and the parishioner's family was to pay at his death the best beast he had to his lord “meat after
the holy kirk.” This was originally a voluntary gift, and hence called a “corse-present ;” but it afterwards
grew into a claim, and was insisted upon by the clergy till the time of the Reformation, when it was enacted
that no mortuaries, or corse-presents, to the parsons of any parish should exceed ten shillings; that persons
not leaving goods to the value of ten marks (£6 : 13:4) should not be liable to any mortuary ; that those
leaving goods of the value of from ten marks to £30 should pay 3s. 4d.; if above £30, and under £40, the
payment to be 6s. 8d.; and for any higher value, 10s. In the archdeaconry of Chester, in that diocese,
a custom prevailed that the bishop of Chester, who is also archdeacon, should have, at the death of every
clergyman dying within his archdeaconry, his best horse or mare, bridle, Saddle, and spurs; his best gown or
cloak, hat, upper garment under his gown, and tippet, and also his best signet or ring; but by 48 Geo. III.
(1808) this ecclesiastical mortuary was directed to cease, and the act settled upon the bishop a somewhat inade-
quate equivalent in its stead.
The obligation imposed upon tenants to grind corn at the lord's soke-mill is of high antiquity, and
continues to exist in many manors till the present day;' but in some manufacturing districts (Manchester
* Dr. Hibbert-Ware relates the following:—“A tenant's boy, on
1 The YULE FEAST was a kind of Saturnalia, where all were con-
the death of his father, driving an only cow to the manor-house of
sidered on a level, landlord and tenant, as ancient, Mr. Bryant con-
ceives, as the time of Noah, and meant to indicate the social manner
in which that patriarch lived with his family, when he was instruct-
ing them in the art of husbandry. It is synonymous with the word
Ale, which is always used in festive sense, as Bride-Ale, Church-Ale,
etc. In Yorkshire, and some parts of Lancashire, it is the custom
to place a large log of wood On the fire, on the night of Christmas-
eve, which is called the Yule-clog, or log, and for all the members
of the family on that night to partake of a mess made of “creed-
wheat,” boiled in milk, and seasoned with spices, called Furmety.
* In some manor-houses in Lancashire, dedicated to these annual
scenes of festivity, may be observed an elevation of the floor at the
extremity of the great hall, or in the place of it a gallery, for the
accommodation of the lord and his family, that they might not be
annoyed with coarse rustic freedom at the Yule feast, when the ale
began to level distinctions.
Dukinfield, being met by the lord (Sir Robert Dukinfield), with
whose person and rank the boy was unacquainted, was questioned
whither he was taking his beast. “I am driving it to Dukinfield
for the heriot,” said the boy ; ‘my father is dead, we are many
children, and have no cow but this. Don’t you think the devil
will take Sir Robert for a heriot when he dies º' The lad was for-
tunately addressing a humane landlord :—‘Return home,” said the
knight ; ‘take the cow back to thy mother. I know Sir Robert, I am
going to T).ukinfield myself, and I will make the matter up with
him.’”
* Anciently it was the custom to lead or drive the horse or cow
before the corpse of the deceased at his funeral.
* Where a mill is recorded in the Domesday Survey, we generally
428 (The ºigtorg of £antagüirº.
for instance) the population has outgrown this feudal exaction, which may properly be made the subject of
compromise between the resident inhabitants and the claimant of the prescriptive right. Nothing indicates
more strongly the almost immeasurable distance between the lord and his vassals than these soke privileges;
not only were the tenants required to grind their grain at the lord’s mill on terms of his own prescribing,
but when the lord's corn “came to the mill,” the miller was to “put all men out of their grist, and take
their corn out of the hopper, that his corn might be ground next before all men, for which he was required
to make no payment or mulcture to the miller, but such as he list.”
The ancient festival of guising [disguising], which took place in the spring, and which was therefore
called marling (in allusion to that operation in husbandry being completed), has long ceased in this parish, to
the regret of the holiday-keepers, but by no means to the detriment of the public peace, or to the sobriety
and good order of the inhabitants. -
The parish of Ashton-under-Lyne, containing 9501 statute acres, is situated at the south-easterly part of the
shire in the hundred of Salford, province of York, diocese, rural deanery, and archdeaconry of Manchester,
and Southern division of the county. It is bounded on the north by the parishes of Prestwich-cum-Oldham
and Saddleworth ; on the east and south by the river Tame, which divides it from the parishes of Mottram-in-
Longdendale, and Stockport ; and on the west by the parish of Manchester. The lowest elevation of its surface
is at its western extremity near the Medlock Vale Printworks, where it is 215 feet above the datum-line of the
Ordnance Survey, and the highest is on the summit of Brown Edge Hill, which is elevated 1008 feet. The
entire surface is beautifully undulated ; the valleys of the Medlock, Rocher, and Stayley, finely wooded and
watered, whilst the higher elevations of Hartshead, Boardman's Edge, Stanrick Hill, and Luzley command pic-
turesque views of the wild mountainous scenery which grimly rises in Yorkshire near its north-eastern boundary.
The alluvial covering is for the most part clay, the subsoil clay and gravel, the sub-strata schistus, sandstone,
and coal, the seams of coal being the chief cause of the rapid increase of the parish in riches and population.
The cultivation of the land is generally much neglected, and agriculture in its advanced scientific condition is
wholly unknown. T)airy-farming is the only agricultural occupation carried on with success and enterprise,
the excellent demand for milk and butter by the town population rendering that employment peculiarly
remunerating. Ashton Moss, comprising 265 statute acres, situated near the Western extremity of the town
and parish, was, in the ten years ending 1844, thoroughly drained and intersected by roads, and now bears
excellent crops of every description.
The boundaries of this parish, after a perambulation in 1643, are thus described —
“Whereas the boundary of the Sayde parish of Ashton under lyne begins at the boundary mark at Cross Bank, above Hey, near
Austerlands, at the north extremity of the said parish ; and so descending to the west by Mylne Bottom, where it meets the little Medlock;
and so following that little water down to Leese, dividing it from Ouldham, and turning south-westerly to Holt's, where it leaves the brook,
goes west by Turfpits down another rill to Cherry valley, where it ascends north-west to near a place called Glodwick Clough, where it
turns west by Fitton Hill to Copster Hill by Oak, Lyme, and down by another rill called Medlock to a place by Cutler Hill called Cat
Alley, where it meets the main Medlock, and so ascending the main brook Medlock in the hamlet of Woodhouses it goes south by Buckley
Hill to the edge of the Moss, and so on by or betwixt Ashton Moss and Droylsden Moss side to below Audenshaw near Corn Hill, abutting
On Openshagh, Goreton, Denton, and Houghton, and so on below Hooley Hill to the river of Tame, and so ascending the river of Tame by
Shepley Demesne to Willows, Knotts at Brook, and so betweene Ashton Town to Dukinfield all the way to Mab Holes, and following the
divers windings of the said Tame to the bridge of Stayley dividing Lancashire and Cheshire, and ascending from the sayde bridge of Stayley
by Stayley in Cheshire on the one hand, and Glet, Herrod, Sour Acre, Scout Mill, and to Bottoms on the Ashton hand, where the devycons
of Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cheshire meete, in Mossley Hamlett, in Ashton, in Mickelhurst under Tyntwisel, in Cheshire, and in Quick
Mere in the lordship of Saddelword ; and so ascending a brook of the said Tame to the north-west betweene Mossley and Quick Hamletts
below Lyght Birches, and so on to Thornleigh and to Highe Knowls, where it meetes again with;the little Medlock, and crossing it by
Ashes, by Lees, to the abutment on Hey Chapel," and so ascending the hill to the boundary stone of Cross Bank, the first boundary or
meare.”?
find it still subsisting. All mills appear anciently to have belonged stantially correct. From 1643 to 1857 it does not appear by the
to lords of manors, and the tenants were permitted to grind only at
the lord’s mill; nor could any of them in early history erect a mill
without his special indulgence and permission.—B. The manorial
COrn-mills of Ashton still stand on the north bank of the Tame about
400 yards to the south-west of the Manor Hall, and are in full
operation as SOke-mills, the tenants being still obliged to grind their
Corn there. The ancient custom of taking the 16th measure as toll,
has, however, been commuted for a money charge. From the antique
appearance of the mills it is supposed they have never been rebuilt
since 1422, when “John of the Edge” was miller at a yearly rent
of 16s. 4d., the mills being kept in repair by the lord.—(See the
Custom Roll and Rental.)—H.
* As Hey Chapel was not erected till a century after 1643 (the
date of this perambulation), either the document is spurious or the
date erroneous. The boundaries are, however, correctly de-
Scribed.—B. It is highly probable that there was a Hey Chapel
in 1643, and that it was intended to be used as the church of the
proposed new parish of Alt Edge, as recommended by the church
commission of 1650. The present building was erected in 1742.—H.
* The above is the earliest description known to exist of the
boundaries of the parish of Ashton-under-Lyne, and it is still sub-
parish records that any effective boundary-walking had been accom-
plished by the parochial officers, though many disputes had arisen
in the interval between Ashton-under-Lyne and the adjoining town-
ships, more especially with Oldham and Dukinfield, as to the ex-
clusive or proportionate right of assessing property built across the
boundary-line. In the course of the two centuries the mere-stones
between Ashton-under-Lyne and Dukinfield had certainly been
several times renewed, as the overflowing of the Tame Sweeps many
of them away in a few years ; but no systematic perambulation of
the whole boundary seems to have been accomplished till 1857,
though the 7 and 8 Vic., c. 101 (1844), enacts that all costs and
charges incident to the walking of the boundaries of parishes, “shall
be paid and allowed to them out of the poor-rates of the parish, to-
gether with all expenses properly incurred by the same officers in
the perambulation of the parish, and in setting up and keeping in
proper repair the boundary-stones of the parish, provided that such
perambulations do not arise more than once in every three years.”
If a parish boundary be properly perambulated, there is not much
probability of its being repeated in less than three years, as the last
perambulation of Ashton-under-Lyne in 1857, though only a com-
paratively small parish, occupied eleven days, much time and labour
#umbret of $alfort—33 ſtom-umber-£gme #arisiſ,
429
The parish consists of four divisions—viz. Ashton Town, Audenshaw, Knott Lanes, and Hartshead.
Each district has its distinct boundaries, but the whole parish is governed as one township, under the direction
having been expended by the officers on both sides in finding old
mere-stones, and in examining the title-deeds, ancient inhabitants,
and trustworthy old plans, which frequently proved that the Ord-
nance Survey was seriously in error as to the boundary. The most
difficult part of the perambulation of 1857 to settle was that be-
tween Ashton-under-Lyne and Dukinfield, which had not had a
mere-stone set up for forty years, and in that time nearly all the
ancient landmarks had been removed, most of the brook and river
courses had been changed, and several cotton-factories, with hundreds
of dwelling-houses, had been erected on the parish and county divi-
Sional line, in total ignorance of its existence. These buildings were
all jointly surveyed and laid down on plans by the land-surveyors
on both sides, after a careful examination, with the aid of the parish
officers, of all the evidence which had been collected for their
guidance. Then, again, several hundreds of large boundary-stones
were prepared and fixed into the ground at very inaccessible places
where the boundary-walkers had previously driven in stakes; so that
although eleven days comprehended the whole time actually occupied
by the perambulators in walking the bounds of the parish, yet the
further time Occupied by land-surveyors, stone-masons, carters, and
labourers, must be counted by months. Difficulties of the same mag-
nitude, however, are not likely to occur again to the parish officers
of Ashton-under-Lyne, as a carefully-drawn boundary atlas, on a scale
of sixty inches to the mile, accompanied by a minute topographical
description of the line from every boundary-mark to the next, has
been completed and bound together in a large folio volume, which
will be an authoritative guide in the assessment of boundary-pro-
perty for many generations. The following is an epitomised de-
scription of the perambulation of 1857 —Commencing near Cross
Bank, above Hey, where that of 1643 commenced, at a bench-mark
on three large stones on the north side of the turnpike road leading
from Oldham to Huddersfield, opposite Austerlands cotton-mill,
it proceeds up the hill in a northerly direction along a stone wall,
which separates the parish of Ashton-under-Lyne in the county of
Lancaster, from the parish of Saddleworth in the county of York,
to boundary-stone No. 197, on the top of Smith Hill, which is
elevated 993 feet above the datum-line of the Ordnance Survey, and
forms the northern extremity of the parish. The boundary then
turns in a north-westerly direction along a stone wall which passes
“Dixon's Corner” to boundary-stone No. 169, when it turns to the
South-west, passes along the bowling-green fence of the Temple Inn
to the Austerlands turnpike road, which it crosses at Mally Greave's
House, and thence past the south-east corner of John Mayall's cot-
tages to Waterhead mill-bridge, where it meets with the Medlock
Brook and the parish of Prestwich-cum-Oldham. It then follows
that stream pretty closely in a south and south-westerly direction
past Dowry, Calico, Railway Bridge, to the Lees and Oldham turn-
pike road, which it crosses at the bridge, following the stream past
Springside cotton-mill and the gasworks to boundary-stone No. 184,
where it leaves the Medlock and proceeds in a south-westerly direc-
tion past Holt's buildings, and turf-pits along a streamlet to Glodwick
Brook, in Cherry Valley, which brook it follows through Snipe
Clough to where the fence turns in a south-westerly direction past
Fitton Hill to a small streamlet near Mr. Samuel Taylor's house at
Wild Brook, which it follows to boundary-stone No. 194, on the
turnpike-road between Oldham and Ashton-under-Lyne. The
boundary then follows this streamlet in a southerly direction till it is
joined by another of the same size flowing in a south-easterly direction,
up which it ascends to a three-cornered boundary-stone, No. 196,
which is at the junction of the parishes of Oldham and Ashton-under-
Lyne with the township of Chadderton (detached). The boundary
proceeds from thence, between the parish of Ashton-under-Lyne and
the township of Chadderton (detached), along the northerly side of
a fence which runs generally in a westerly direction to a three-
cornered boundary-stone numbered 199, at Oakfield Brook, which
forms the point of junction where the parishes of Oldham and
Ashton-under-Lyne again touch. The boundary then proceeds be-
tween these two parishes in a south-westerly direction along a stream
and fence which pass Higher Lime, Lower Lime, and Lord's Well,
to a three-cornered stone, No. 216, on the south side of the Man-
chester and Ashton-under-Lyne canal, where the parishes of Prest-
wich-cum-Oldham and Ashton-under-Lyne form a junction with the
township of Failsworth. The boundary then proceeds between
Failsworth and Ashton-under-Lyne, from this point along Lord’s
Brook in a Southerly and South-westerly direction, past Under Lane,
Cutler Hill, Bowk House, Jericho Wood, Bunker’s Hill, and Molotee
cottages, to a three-cornered stone, No. 227, near the old unoccupied
printworks at Medlock Vale, where is the point of contact of the
parish of Ashton-under-Lyne with the townships of Failsworth and
Droylsden. From this point the boundary takes an easterly direc-
tion across the Medlock Vale reservoirs, the Medlock river, and
the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway, to Lumn Brook at the
bottom of Bowbank Clough, which it ascends in a southerly and
easterly direction, in a wavy zig-zag line past the Droylsden railway
station, and along a streamlet and fence to boundary-stone No. 238,
on the border of Ashton Moss, where it takes a southerly and south-
westerly direction, crossing the Droylsden and Ashton-under-Lyne
turnpike road at Williamson Lane, along which it passes into
Ashton Hill lane, leaving this last lane at boundary-stone No. 248,
and proceeding along the fence to a large Square stone let into the
centre of the Manchester and Ashton-under-Lyne turnpike road near
St. Ann's Wells, which forms the junction of the parish of Ashton-
under-Lyne with the townships of Droylsden and Openshaw. From
this point the boundary between Openshaw and Ashton-under-Lyne
goes southerly along a Small stream which passes under the Fairfield
station of the Manchester, Sheffield, and Lincolnshire Railway Com-
pany, to a three-cornered stone in a fence forty yards south of the
Company's waiting shed which is the junction of the parish of
Ashton-under-Lyne with the townships of Openshaw and Gorton.
This last-mentioned township is almost wholly separated from
Ashton-under-Lyne by the large eastern reservoirs of the Manchester
Corporation, and so also is the township of Denton as far as Dodge-
leach Brook, which takes a north-easterly course across Cornhill till
it reaches Taylor Lane, when it leaves the brook and takes a south-
easterly direction across the Stockport and Stalybridge branch of
the London and North-Western Railway ; thence in an easterly
direction along a fence to a three-cornered boundary-stone numbered
264, near the county constabulary station, on the turnpike road
between Stockport and Ashton-under-Lyne, which forms the point
of junction of the townships of Denton and Haughton and the parish
of Ashton-under-Lyne. The boundary then passes down Shaw
Brook to the river Tame, which, generally speaking, is said to sepa-
rate the parish of Ashton-under-Lyne in the county of Lancaster,
from the township of Dukinfield in the county of Chester, but the
boundary-line, as settled by unquestionable documentary evidence,
scarcely ever coincides with the bed of the present river, so extremely
changeable has been its course during the last two hundred years. In
all cases, however, it lies within the valley of the Tamé, passing to the
east of Shepley Hall works and bridge, to a bench-mark on the goit
culverts near the fence which separates the Ashton Town and Auden-
Shaw divisions; thence crossing and re-crossing the river twenty-one
times On its way to Stalybridge, passing in its course the Manchester,
Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway, Jeremy Brook, Walk Mill, canal
aqueduct, Waterside ironworks, Mulcture Mill, Alma Bridge, Lees’
Cottages, Dukinfield Bridge, Mellor's Mill, Nield's factory (both in
Dukinfield), Lees' and Shaw's spindle-mills (both in Ashton), Chad-
wick’s and Wainwright's factories (both in Dukinfield), and others
in an exceedingly zig-zag and circuitous direction, through cotton-
factories, large blocks of cottages, and other buildings, to the iron bar
in the centre of Hobson’s Weir, in the middle of the river a little to
the south of the old bridge that gives the borough of Stalybridge its
designation, which iron bar is the junction of Ashton-under-Lyne
parish with the Dukinfield and Stayley townships. The boundary
then ascends the river above the bridge of Stayley to Higher Mill,
passing Meadow Mills, Souracre, Heyrod, Stayley Hall, Spring Grove,
Blackrock, Scout, and Mossley Bottom, at which place it leaves the
river and passes through (at bench-marks) the mills of Messrs. John
and George Mayall, thence crossing and re-crossing the Tame several
times on its way to the junction of Ashton-under-Lyne, Stayley, and
Saddleworth, and of the counties of Lancaster, Chester, and York,
which occurs at a bench-mark on a large stone in a tail goit near
Cresswell mill. The boundary at this point branches off in a
westerly direction up a brook, through the northerly part of Moss-
ley to Brookbottom mills, which it crosses at bench-marks placed on
the north and South walls; thence it takes a northerly course along
a fence and streamlet at the bottom of Light Birches Hollow to
Bank Mills, where it runs in a westerly direction past Clough Mills
to Lees village, from whence it proceeds northerly through a part of
County-End cotton-mill to Hey village and chapel, where, after
diverging to the north-east round Nicholson's meadow, it ascends
the hill along part of Thorpe Lane, passing Cross Bank on the east
to the bench-marks on the three large stones on the north side of
the Oldham and Huddersfield turnpike road, opposite Austerlands
mill, where the perambulation commenced.
430 Qſìje #igturn of £antagjire. |
of four churchwardens and four overseers, who are annually elected in vestry, and together form the Parish
Board, acting alike for all the divisions. The parish of Ashton-under-Lyne has an area of 9501 acres; its
population in 1861 was 66,801. The parliamentary borough of Ashton had a population in 1861 of 33,925,
and the municipal borough of 34,894. 4.
The Ashton Town division comprises the whole of the parliamentary, and nearly all the municipal borough
of Ashton-under-Lyne, with a small portion of the municipal borough of Stalybridge. It is much smaller
in area than any of the three other divisions, and contains only about 1374 statute acres, but the
number of its inhabitants in 1861 was 34,894, being more than one moiety of the entire parochial
population. The town itself is pleasantly situated near the south-western boundary of this division, and
upon the northern bank of the river Tame, which here rises rather abruptly from 50 to 60 feet above the
river, canal, and the plain below. All the new streets and Squares are wide and Salubrious, and were
laid out by Lord Stamford's surveyors with strict regard to regularity and to their sanitary condition. Nearly
all the old streets are narrow, crooked, and inconvenient ; but as they form a very small portion of the whole,
they do not affect materially the general statement of the town being remarkably well and uniformly built.
Down to 1827 the affairs of the town were managed by the agents and officers of Lord Stamford's court-leet
in conjunction with the parish churchwardens and overseers. In May 1825, a company was incorporated by
act of parliament for lighting the town with gas; and their large works in Oldham Road have been greatly
extended of late years. The shareholders are limited by their act to a dividend of 10 per cent on their
paid-up capital, which they have long enjoyed, the shares being worth more (in 1867) than double their
original cost. The duty of lighting, cleansing, watching, and improving the town, devolved upon a body of
police-commissioners from June 14, 1827 to November 29, 1847, when a charter of incorporation was granted
to the inhabitants, by which the town was divided into four wards, each ward being represented at the council
board by two aldermen and six councillors, who, with the mayor, constitute (1867) the municipal government
of the town. The county magistrates for the division of Ashton-under-Lyne hold petty sessions in the town-
hall every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday ; and the justices for the borough sit in the same hall every
Monday, Thursday, and Saturday. Special sessions under the highway acts, and for transferring alehouse
licenses, granting game certificates, etc., are also from time to time held by both benches.
- A copy is preserved of an early assessment laid and appointed in the 15th year of the reign of James I.
(1617), called the Fifteenth book for the parish of Ashton-under-Lyne, showing the number of acres in every
inhabitant's holding, which exhibits the following results:—
Lancashire - Lancashire
àCrêS, S. d. à.CI'êS. S. d.
Ashton Town . & e - º º 528 – 6 6 Cross Bank .* e © ſº g 30 — 0 5}
Audenshaw ...& & & º ** 436% — 5 3} | Thornelee and High Knolles * g 67% – 0 8;
Shepley & & g e $º & 105 — 1 4 Hartshead . , ºr gº * g g 2883 – 3 3
Little Moss * , º º - .g. 240; – 2 10 Small Shaw * g * e º 1934 – 2 1+
Waterhouses * ...tº & * * 70} – 0 9 Hurste or Hirst . & & * º 288 – 3 3;
Woodhouses g * g e e 214 – 2 8} | Hazlehurst . & e * e * 1924 – 2 2
Nott Lanes with Park ſº * sº 4043 – 4 7% | Mossley g • • g * º 129 — 1 5%
Alt Hill . tº * & º & 195 — 2 0% Lusley with Lanes e & ge ſº 42.1% — 4 6
Alt and Alt Edge g e g & 268; – 3 0 Lyme e e g o gº g 40 – 0 6
Leese or Lees . º .* g g 94% – 1 2% More in New Ground . c g gº ... — 0 4%
From which it appears that the whole assessment for the county rate on upwards of 4,000 acres of land did
not then exceed £2 : 9: 2. Now the assessment on which the county rate is made is £206,027.
The ancient baronial residence called the Old Hall, standing on the confines of the Saxon kingdoms of
Northumbria and Mercia, still retains much of its primitive dignity. It is impossible to fix with any precision
the date of this edifice, which probably stands itself on the site of a still more ancient castle; but it is
evidently anterior to the time mentioned by Dr. Aikin, as in a deed of the date of 1380, the “Little Park.”
extending westward towards the Soke Mill, and the “Hall Yard,” are both mentioned. From the time that
the family residence was transferred to Dunham Massey, in the reign of Henry VIII., the old hall had been
suffered for many years to fall into comparative dilapidation ; but in 1838 it underwent a thorough repair,
and for the last twenty years has been made the temporary residence of the earl and countess of Stamford
and Warrington, when visiting the manor or shooting on the Micklehurst moors. Adjoining to this edifice
stands the dungeon, a strong, compact building, flanked by two round towers, and now covered with ivy. At
a short distance from the front of the hall was the field called the “Gallows Meadow,” where in ancient times
the feudal lords executed summarily their evil-disposed or rebellious vassals. This meadow has been taken
possession of by the Manchester, Sheffield, and Lincolnshire Railway Company for their permanent way and for
their extensive warehousing, so that no part of it is now covered with herbage. Of the body of the prison
little now remains, and the moats, courtyards, and drawbridges have all disappeared; so that there is now
scarcely anything left to attest that it was at one time the fortified baronial residence of the Asshetons.
The parish church of Ashton is a large ancient structure, of the age of Henry W. (about 1413), dedicated
#umbrel of Šalfort—33 ſtom-umber-ºptic arish, 431
to St. Michael, and which superseded an earlier fabric. Many of the Assheton family lie interred here,
having become the patrons in 1427. In 1469 the church, then called the chapel of Assheton, was repaired,
and the cemetery inclosed, at the cost of Sir Thomas Assheton." In 1516 the church was enlarged, and a
new tower erected. In 1792 this church underwent another repair. In 1818-21 the north-side of the church
and the tower were rebuilt. While these improvements were advancing, an alarming fire broke out in the
interior of the church, on the evening of Sunday the 31st of March 1821, owing to one of the flues under
the western gallery being overheated. The flames spread their destructive ravages to all the timber in the
vicinity of the place where they originated; and before they could be subdued, the valuable fine-toned organ
was completely destroyed, and considerable damage was done to the nave. The south side of the edifice was
completely restored in 1840-4, so that the chancel is now the only part of the church that has not been
rebuilt within the last fifty years. In 1845 an organ was presented to the church by Edward Brown of the
Firs, esq., which cost 1000 guineas. Ashton is famous for steeple-music ; and an excellent peal of ten bells,
placed in the lofty tower of the parish church, affords to the ringers a favourable opportunity for qualifying
themselves for those harmonious contests of skill in which they are so frequently engaged both at home and
abroad. It may be mentioned, on the authority of the parish register, that during the period of the Common-
wealth, the marriage ceremony was performed here, by the magistrates of the district, John Guillam, esq. of
Newton, in the parish of Manchester, and Edmund Hopwood, esq. of Oldham. The registers begin in 1594.
The first rector of Ashton in the parish records is the Rev. Robert Parker, M.A., who died in February
1618. He was succeeded by Henry Fairfax, D.D., son of old Lord Cameron, and younger brother of Ferdinand,
Lord Fairfax; he is described by Herbert in the “Country Parson,” as a regular, sober, religious, and loyal
man; he was also the minister of Bolton Percy, in Yorkshire, to which place he fled during the civil wars,
His successor was Mr. John Harrison, inducted to the rectory by a party of soldiers, who rifled and destroyed
Mr. Fairfax's papers. Mr. Harrison is described by the parliamentary commissioners as “an orthodox,
painful, able minister;” and during his incumbency Alt Edge in this parish was deemed worthy of being
made a parish, by a commission bearing date June 18, 1650. From the report of the commissioners it
appears that the value of the living of Ashton was at that time £113 : 6 : 8 per annum. After Mr.
Harrison's ministry, Thomas Ellison was rector from 1683 to 1699, when John Simon Delaheuze became rector.
At his death, in 1726, he was succeeded by the Rev. John Penny, M.A., who died July 9, 1758, and was
succeeded by the Rev. George Booth in 1758, cousin of Lord Delamere, who was created a baronet June 9,
1790. The successor of Sir George was the Rev. Oswald Leicester, who remained incumbent till the 2d of
August 1801, when the Rev. Anchitel Grey was preferred to the living. His successor was the Rev. John
Hutchinson, M.A. on the 27th of March 1810, who resigned the rectory January 24, 1816, and was suc-
ceeded by the Rev. George Chetwode, M.A. (nephew of the sixth earl of Stamford and Warrington), the
present incumbent. In 1854 the value of the living was £1434, but as the churchyard has since that time
been closed, it is not now estimated to be worth more than £1000.
For many ages St. Michael's was the only church in Ashton; but on the 24th October 1821 the
foundation of St. Peter's Church was laid by the Right Rev. George Henry Law, D.D., bishop of Chester;
and this stately Gothic edifice was erected under the direction of commissioners appointed by parliament.
It cost £14,000, of which sum the commissioners advanced £12,688, and local private subscriptions the
remainder. It contains 1821 sittings, and the galleries, which are wholly free, are capable of seating 800
persons. Two churches have since been added—Christ Church in 1848 (683 sittings, of which only 100 are
reserved), the Rev. J. D. Kelly, M.A., incumbent; and St. James's, erected in 1865, at the sole cost of
Oldham Whittaker, esq. of Hurst, which cost (including the four stained-glass windows in the chancel),
upwards of £3500. He also endowed it with a sum of £1000. Lord Stamford contributed 6920 square
yards of land for its site, and also sites for schools and a parsonage in connection with it, which gift was
estimated to be worth £2000. The Rev. T. B. Dixon is the incumbent.
By the census of 1851 the numbers of places of worship and sittings in the municipal borough of
Ashton-under-Lyne (population 30,676) were then—Church of England, 3, 4021 sittings; Independents,
3, 24.50; Particular Baptists, 1, 550; Wesleyan Methodists, 1,400; Methodists, New Connection, 2, 1402;
Primitive Methodists, 1, 630; New Church, 1, 250 ; isolated congregations, 2, 1000 ; Roman Catholics, 1,
500; Latter Day Saints, 1, 270. Total, 16 places, 10,573 sittings. These returns are, however, in some
instances inaccurate.
The Independents have two large chapels here—one in Albion Street at the east, and the other in
Ryecroft at the west end of the town, both having schools that rival in magnitude and architecture the
chapels themselves. The Roman Catholics have also two large chapels—one in Burlington Street and the
other in Wellington Road. The Methodist New Connection body have also two large places of worship—one
in Stamford Street and the other in Trafalgar Square. There is also a beautiful chapel belonging to the
Wesleyan Methodists in Stamford Street, erected in 1851 in the decorated style of English architecture,
* The arms of Ashton, impaling Staveleigh, were formerly on the tower. The marriage took place in 1469, and the repairs were
probably made shortly afterwards.-B.
432 Qſìje 39tgtorg of 3|antagijire.
which is capable of seating 1150 persons. There are also places of worship belonging to the Baptists,
Primitive Methodists, Swedenborgians, Mormons, and Latter Day Saints. For the public worship of the
disciples of Johanna Southcott, the “Brethren” in Ashton had four Israelitish temples. They once were
very numerous here; and at each of the four cardinal points of the parish they had a species of temple, called
in the Shibboleth of the sect, the Northern, Southern, Eastern, and Western “gates of the temple of the
children of Israel.” But these have been applied to secular uses, and the long-bearded brethren are rapidly
disappearing. Nearly all the above churches and chapels have large Sunday and week-day Schools, some on
the National plan, as the excellent new schools belonging to the parish church at the bottom of Mossley
Road, and some on the British, as the large schools belonging to the Independents; but there is no apathy
manifested by any denomination as to the great importance of both secular and religious knowledge. There
are also several well-conducted boarding-schools and academies for the education of the children of the upper
and middle classes. s: -
The literary institutions comprise a mechanics' institute, founded in 1825, and reorganised in 1836,
which occupies a spacious and dignified structure of its own in Warrington and Church Streets. It was
erected by private subscriptions in 1861, at a cost of £4000, and contains finely-proportioned reading, lecture,
telegraph, library, class, and committee rooms, which are all well attended, and promote in an important
degree the mental improvement of its subscribers, nine of whom obtained certificates of proficiency at the
examinations of the Union of Lancashire and Cheshire Institutes in 1866. It has 552 subscribers, and 3749
volumes of books in the library. There is also a Church of England Institute, established in 1856, for the
purpose of extending religious and secular knowledge according to the principles of the Church of England,
and for affording a better education to its members than can be obtained in Sunday schools and mutual
improvement societies. It occupies commodious premises in Stamford Street ; has well-attended classes in
writing, arithmetic, grammar, geography, and mathematics; and has its library and reading rooms amply
supplied with books, magazines, and newspapers. It has 155 subscribers, and 1042 volumes of books in its
library. There is one newspaper published here weekly, entitled the Ashton Reporter, and two magazines,
namely, the Illustrated and the Ancient Shepherds, which appear at uncertain intervals.
From the sixteenth report of the commissioners for inquiring concerning charities, it appears that Dame Elizabeth Booth left
in 1619 to the overseers of the poor of Ashton-under-Lyne the sum of £2 : 10s. a-year, to be laid out in the purchase of bread, to
be distributed weekly to the poor attending morning service. Amongst other bequests of this pious lady, 10 shillings a year are
appointed to be paid to a preacher in the parish church of St. John, Chester, for delivering a sermon on such day as the mayor
may appoint ; and the sum of £2 is left to the mayor, aldermen, and common council for a “good drinking” immediately after
the sermon. The sum of 20 shillings a-year was bequeathed by Priscilla Pickford in 1740 to the poor of Ashton, which is
distributed to poor persons in the church, on Christmas-day. Miles Hilton also left in 1741 a sum of £130, and Mrs. Heywood
the sum of £15, the interest of which is expended in clothing for the poor; as is also the interest of £250, left by Mr. James
Walker in 1769. The sum of £3, bequeathed by John Newton as a rent-charge upon an estate at Crime, is paid to the schoolmaster
of a school-house, originally built in 1721, and rebuilt in 1827, by the parishioners near the parish church, called the Church
School, which still exists; but the money is now paid to the schoolmaster of the new parish schools erected in 1863 at the bottom
of Mossley Road, in respect whereof six boys are taught to read and write. By will, bearing date the 7th July 1755, John
Walker left £600; the interest thereof to belaid out yearly for the benefit of poor children residing in Ashton-under-Lyne, Oldham,
and Saddleworth, for the purchase of books for poor children; £5: 10:9 of which sum is expended in giving education to twelve
poor children at Ashton. “In 1857, Edward Brown, of the Firs, left £1000 to trustees, the interest of which to be distributed for
ever in bread to the poor of the parish church every Sunday morning. But the noblest bequest of all was left by will, dated 11th
March 1858, by Samuel Oldham, of Oak View, Audenshaw, who left—1st, the sum of £100, to be expended in the purchase of
books for the Ashton Mechanics' Institution ; 2d, f10,000, for the endowment of an Infirmary, for the relief of indigent persons
residing within three and a half miles of the new town-hall of Ashton-under-Lyne; and 3d, £7000, for the maintenance of a public
park, for the recreation of the inhabitants of Ashton-under-Lyne, whenever a park of the kind should be purchased, laid out, and
fully established. In 1861, the interest of the £10,000 was secured by the erection of a suitable hospital at Chamber Hills, which
cost £9500, and this District Infirmary, now in full efficiency, has since that time been still further endowed by the following sums—
viz. from Henry Lees, £500; John Whittaker, É500; Oldham Whittaker, £500; Henry Gartside, £52:10s. ; Thomas Nield, £50;
Robert Evans, £10; John Leech, £250; James Howard, £1000; James Kershaw, £1000; George Cheetham, £100; Esther Berry, £500,
and Jonathan Andrew, £500. The interest of the £7000 for a park has not yet (1867) been secured, and therefore the proceeds go
to the Manchester and Stockport Infirmaries.” In addition to these charities, Edward Hobson, by indenture bearing date the 17th
of March 1764, conveyed certain lands and premises, in trust, for the purpose of affording gratuitous instruction to poor children
in Audenshaw ; out of these funds a school-house was erected in 1823, at an expense disproportioned to the means of the charity;
but the establishment has now (1867) been put upon a footing of permanency, and it is hoped of extended benefit, the charitable
income being £124:10:9, and the children taught 163. The commissioners, in the conclusion of their report of the charities of
the parish of Ashton, mention the sum of £100, bequeathed by the Reverend John Cape Atty; the interest thereof to be applied,
by the minister and churchwardens of Cockerhill chapel, to giving clothing every Christmas day to poor persons most deserving,
within Stalybridge. In the first edition of this work the Sunday scholars within the parish in 1831 were stated to be 10,500;
and a Subsequent account in print makes the number in 1851 to be no less than 24,600. Both these accounts seem to be greatly
exaggerated; the first being no less than 312, and the later 43.2 per cent of the entire population of the whole parish. From a
very careful estimate, for there are no exact returns of the whole, the number of Sunday scholars within the parish in 1867 is believed
to be 18,448 ; which is about 27.6 per cent of the total population, a much more probable ratio than those stated for 1831 and 1851.
Ashton is admirably situated, both for the purposes of trade and manufacture. By the mountain-stream
called the Tame, water in abundance is supplied; cotton-mills abound on the banks of this river, and the
bleachers and dyers find in its waters a source of continual purification. Three of the canals of Yorkshire,
Derbyshire, and Lancashire, centre here. By the Ashton Canal merchandise is conveyed to Manchester, and
from thence by water to Liverpool; by the Huddersfield Canal, a water conveyance is opened to the German
#umbren of Šalford–3shton-underºgme #arish. 433
Ocean; and by the Peak Forest Canal, a communication is made into the heart of Derbyshire, for the con-
veyance of fuel and the reception of lime. There are also four railway companies competing for its traffic—
viz. the Manchester, Sheffield, and Lincolnshire; the Lancashire and Yorkshire; the London and North-Western;
and the Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne, and Guide Bridge Railway—all made within the last thirty years. Coals
here are abundant, and the convenience of transit opens for them a never-failing market. The privilege of
turbary on the Moss, once so valuable, is now extinguished for ever; the land, as elsewhere mentioned,
having been thoroughly drained and brought into cultivation.
The cotton manufacture has taken deep root here. Anciently the woollen trade was the prevalent
manufacture of this place, but soon after the invention of the spinning-frames the cotton trade was introduced;
and as early as 1769 the weaving of the light fabrics of ginghams, nankeens, and calicoes, spread through the
parish. There is one silk-mill, but the process of weaving cotton-yarn by machinery is now carried on here
to a very large extent. The number of steam-engines in the parish in 1831, was no fewer than 81, with an
aggregate amount of 1474 horse-power, exclusive of water-mills; and the number of power-looms in 1833, in
Ashton, Stalybridge, Hyde, and Dukinfield, amounted to 14,000, of which it is estimated 3000 were made
in consequence of the repeal of the duty on printed calicoes. In 1867, there were in the parish of Ashton-
under-Lyne alone, exclusive of the Cheshire side of Stalybridge, and of Hyde and Dukinfield, 122 separate
cotton-spinning and manufacturing concerns, whose owners, in the aggregate, usually employed 6833 horses'
power, 16,770 power-looms, and 2,278,000 spindles.
The population of Ashton parish at the census of 1801 was 15,632; by that of 1851 it was 56,959,
and by the last census in 1861 it had increased 10,000 in the ten years—being 66,801, of whom 31,479
were males and 35,322 females. The Ashton-under-Lyne Poor-Law Union includes the boroughs of Ashton
and Stalybridge, the whole of the parish of Ashton, and three other townships in Lancashire and nine in
Cheshire. The following are the items of population by the census of 1861 —Ashton Town, eastward,
17,193 persons; westward, 16,732; Knott Lanes, 7310; Audenshaw, 6327; Hartshead, 19,244: total of
parish, 66,806. Borough of Ashton, 34,894; borough of Stalybridge, 24,806. Lancashire townships in the
union—Denton, 3335 ; Droylsden, 8801; Haughton, 3371. Cheshire townships—Dukinfield, 29,949;
Godley, 1185 ; Hattersley, 400; Hollingworth, 2157; Matley, 231 ; Mottram, 3406; Newton, 6442;
Stayley, 6186; Tintwistle, 2492. Total population of the Ashton-under-Lyne Union, 134,761. The district
included in the union has an area of 38,657 acres ; rateable value in 1867, £392,127 ; and in 1851 had
within it 25 places of worship belonging to the Church of England, with an aggregate of 20,844 sittings; 11
Independent, 3 Baptist, 8 Wesleyan, 13 New Connection Methodist, 10 Primitive and 3 Wesleyan Association
chapels, 2 Roman Catholic, and various others of different denominations. It then possessed 38 public day-
schools (5536 scholars), 108 private day-schools (5233), 93 Sunday-schools (24,636), and 28 evening-schools
for adults, etc. (858).
There are here two annual fairs for horses, cattle, and general wares:–These fairs are held by patent,
under the duchy seal, granted by Henry VI. in the 14th year of his reign (1436), to Sir John de Assheton—
one on the eve, the feast, and morrow of St. Swithin (14th, 15th, and 16th of July), and the other on the
eve, the feast, and morrow of St. Martin (10th, 11th, and 12th of November). In addition to the above fairs,
there are now four others—namely, on the 23d of March, the 29th of April, the 25th of July, and the 21st
of November. Cattle-markets are also held on the second Thursday of every month.
Ashton Moss, which is a short distance from the town, on the Manchester road, furnished at one time a
source of fuel; and as the peat was cut away, the diggers at about the depth of ten feet found a tolerable
soil of loam, which was easily converted into arable land. The moss was what was called a shaking bog, but,
like all the other mosses of Lancashire, in the vicinity of manufacturing towns, it was with proper drainage
and manure easily cultivated to advantage, as the experiment made upon it between 1834 and 1844 by
gentlemen of skill and science clearly demonstrated. Red fir-trees were frequently found buried there, which
had been for ages preserved in their peaty beds, and made when split excellent firewood. There were also
large oaks dug up perfectly sound, and as black and firm as ebony. Drosera longifolia, or long-leaved
Sundew; and Osmunda regalis, or Flowering Fern, two rare plants, were found here in perfection in the
months of July and August.
A memorable phenomenon, at once terrific and sublime, occurred in the district between the Medlock
and the Tame on Thursday the 19th of June 1817. At four o'clock in the afternoon of that day an unusual
darkness came on, and prevailed for about twenty minutes, during which period successive flashes of lightning
served to render the “darkness visible ;” and hailstones fell, or rather irregular prisms of ice, of from four to
six inches in diameter. The storm swept along the plain from Hartshead to the east of Stalybridge. The
wind was from the N.W.; and the glass in every window bearing that aspect, in the whole range of the
parish was demolished, though no other very material mischief was done. Twenty-six years before this time
Ashton was also visited by a thunderstorm. In the course of the afternoon of a dismal day in January
1791, a vast accumulation of electric matter seemed to collect over the town, and between five and six o'clock
- 3 K
434 (Iſiſt £igturn of £ancashire.
in the evening the clouds burst with a tremendous explosion, which occasioned an involuntary exclamation of
horror throughout the whole place. The lightning struck the steeple of the parish church, and melted part
of the vane; a number of stones were thrown from the belfry, where an iron rod was fused by the fluid ; and
many of the pews at the west end of the church, and also in the earl of Stamford's chapel at the east end,
were shivered to atoms.
Ashton can boast of few public buildings, except those used for the purpose of religious worship, or for
the education of the poor. But the most important of secular structures is the Town Hall, which was
erected of stone in 1840 after designs by Young, on the north side of the large Market Square, at a cost of
nearly £10,000. It is of the Corinthian order and Roman style of architecture, the main entrance being
decorated with four engaged columns in antis, surmounted by a finely-proportioned attic, in the central
compartment of which (designed as a pedestal for a sculptured figure of Justice) is an inscription recording
the date of the building, 1840. The front façade is flanked by wings in strict harmony with the central
pavilion, which serve to connect the enriched front of the edifice with the subdued architecture of the sides.
The building consists of a basement and two storeys, the principal entrance to the interior being approached
in front by a fine flight of steps, flanked by an unperforated portion of the pedestal. This stately hall, which
is Worthy of the borough, contains court-rooms, prison, police-offices, Sundry committee-rooms, and a hall 83 feet
by 40, where balls, concerts, lectures, and public meetings are held; within the Town Hall is also transacted
most of the public business connected with the borough and neighbourhood: here the county magistrates sit
every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday; the town-council monthly and quarterly ; the borough justices every
Monday, Thursday, and Saturday; and the judge of the county court every Thursday. The Odd Fellows'
Hall in Stamford Street is a handsome building, erected in 1855 at a cost of nearly £5000. It is in the
Roman style, built with patent bricks and stone dressings, the enriched cornice and perforated parapet being
much admired. Part of the basement contains shops and a hotel, and in the upper storeys are committee-
rooms and a large hall extending over the whole building, where balls, concerts, and public meetings are held.
The banks of Ashton have in some degree kept pace with the wealth and importance of the borough. In
1784 Mr. Bentley Brooke opened a bank here on the site of the present rectory, but losses from injudicious
accommodation forced him into the Gazette, 5th August 1788. The next banking firm was that of Messrs. Sikes
and Hyde, who opened a bank in Crickett's Lane in 1796, which was then the principal street of the town.
They had another bank at Huddersfield, and promissory-notes of £1 and upwards were drawn at each place
respectively, but payable only at the other; hence their notes were denominated “fly-shuttles.” During the
few years of the existence of this firm, it circulated on an average about £40,000 of its own notes, and
acquired deposits to the extent of £20,000, making a total liability to the public of £60,000. The stoppage,
which took place 9th August 1800, created quite a panic in the district, and for nearly twenty years
afterwards all country bank paper was either unhesitatingly rejected or taken with great reluctance.
For Some years prior to 1800 the circulating medium here consisted almost entirely of notes issued by local
country bankers, which passed for the low denominations of ten shillings, five shillings, and even half-a-crown.
In 1820 Messrs. Harrop, Lees, and Brown opened a bank in this town in the house now possessed by Mr.
Henry Hall, solicitor, Stamford Street, where they discounted bills to a large extent, but their principal
profit arose from the issue of their £1 notes, of which they obtained as extensive a circulation as possible.
The failure of one or two banks in Huddersfield caused great distrust in the public mind as to the stability of
the one-pound-note banks, and hence the note-circulation of Messrs. Harrop, Lees, and Brown decreased so
rapidly that in January 1836 the firm stopped payment, though the partners, with the assistance of their
friends, afterwards discharged all their liabilities. Immediately after this failure, Messrs. Buckley, Shaw,
and Co., of Saddleworth, opened a bank in the premises now occupied by the Ashton branch of the
Manchester and County Bank, where they discounted bills and issued their promissory-notes in a cautious
and limited manner. The numerous failures amongst private bankers in 1832 created powerful feelings
against them, and induced favourable opinions of joint-stock banks; hence on 1st March 1833, the bank
of Messrs. Buckley, Shaw, and Co., was, by the admission of one hundred and twenty-four new partners,
transferred into a joint-stock bank, designated the “Saddleworth Banking Company.” In 1865 this company
ceased to exist, the business thereof having been transferred to the Manchester and County Bank, and it is
now carried on as the Ashton branch of that establishment. In 1831 a branch of the Manchester and
Liverpool District Banking Company was opened in Ashton, and at first issued notes payable on demand like
the Saddleworth Bank, but in November 1834 it ceased to be a bank of issue, and substituted the notes of
the Bank of England. In 1834 the business of this branch was removed from Old Square to the present
handsome premises in Stamford Street. The last bank established here is designated the “Ashton,
Stalybridge, Hyde, and Glossop Bank,” which is essentially different from the other banks, inasmuch as it
emanated from the inhabitants of Ashton, and depended entirely upon the support of its local resident
proprietary. It was instituted at a public meeting of the inhabitants of Ashton, held in the Court-House in
March 1836, Thomas Smith, esq., the mayor, in the chair, when it was resolved that the capital should be
#umbret of $alfort—33 ſtom-umber-3 gne |\arigl). 435
£500,000, divided into 50,000 shares of £10 each, and that the management should be vested in a board of
directors elected annually by the shareholders. The undertaking became rapidly popular, and by the 18th
of June the company had been established, the first instalment received, premises obtained at 84 Stamford
Street, a board of directors elected, a manager appointed, and a list of the proprietors filed at the Stamp
Office. On the 1st July 1836 the bank commenced business at Ashton-under-Lyne with the intention of
opening branches at Stalybridge, Hyde, and Glossop, in conformity with the title of the company, but the
severe monetary pressure that occurred at the end of 1836 and beginning of 1837 caused the directors to
depart from the original design of opening banks at these places, and to limit the operations of the company
to Ashton-under-Lyne. On the 10th May 1847 this bank removed from No. 84 Stamford Street to the
present handsome, convenient, and central premises in the same street. There is also a Savings' Bank,
established in 1829, which had deposits on the 20th May 1867 amounting to £79,040, being a less sum by
nearly £50,000 than they were at the commencement of the cotton famine in 1861. On the 2d April 1859
a Penny Bank was opened at the Town Hall, which had, on the 29th June 1867, 849 depositors and £244 of
deposits, the deposits having been reduced about 60 per cent during the cotton panic.
In 1829 the old market cross was taken down, after having stood for ages. In the fifteenth century a
market was held here on the Monday, and continued till 1665. For upwards of a century and a half the
market was discontinued or held at irregular intervals, but the rising consequence of the place occasioned the
renewal of the market, which is now held on Monday and Saturday in each week. For the better
accommodation of the public, a market, consisting of a squaré of nearly 14,000 yards, was formed in 1828;
the earl of Stamford and Warrington granted the site without cost, reserving to himself only, as an
acknowledgment as lord of the manor, £20 annually. For the better access to the market, the old street
called Dungeon was taken down, and the whole area thrown open. A plain but commodious market-house
of brick was also erected, and the market-committee were enabled to open this edifice for the use of the town
on the 5th of July 1829. Since that time there have been several enlargements, costing in the whole
upwards of £10,000, and there is at present (1867) an important extension in progress, which will cost the
corporation about £3500. The design adopted is of the Roman style of architecture, and comprises an
enlargement on the north side of 1073 superficial square yards, the rebuilding of the whole of the west front,
and the erection of a central tower 62 feet high.
On elevated ground, in the north-eastern suburb of the town, surrounded by lawns and shrubberies,
stands the District Infirmary, for the care and relief of sick and indigent persons, which was erected by
private subscription in 1860, at a cost of £9500, the earl of Stamford and Warrington having given five
statute acres of valuable land for a site. It is in the Elizabethan style, constructed of patent bricks and
stone dressings, is 280 feet by 30 feet, two storeys in height, and contains four elevated wards 62 feet by
26% feet each, the whole being amply supplied with spacious and convenient consulting, surgery, accident,
waiting, operating, bathing, lavatory, etc., rooms, together with every other appliance that experience has
shown to be useful. At Chamber Hills, in the same suburb, is the Union Workhouse, erected in 1850 at an
original cost of £12,000, which has since been increased to about £15,000, and the erection of an hospital
for 150 imbeciles is now in progress, estimated to cost £4300 more, so that the entire expenditure will be
nearly £20,000. It covers nearly four statute acres of land, is constructed of stone, two storeys high, and
adapted for the accommodation of 500 paupers, one end being for males and the other for females, with
ample sitting-rooms, workshops, dining-rooms, and dormitories at each end for both classes. On account of
the distance from the town, the guardians generally transact the business of the Union at the old workhouse
in Market Street, Ashton, where they meet every Thursday, the workhouse committee usually going to
Chamber Hills immediately after the general business has terminated in Market Street. In the old work-
house premises also, the churchwardens and overseers of the parish transact all their business, the vicinity
having in late years been greatly improved by the removal of old property and the formation of new streets,
the paving, flagging, and sewering of which have lately cost the corporation and property-owners large sums
of money, besides £50,538 that has been received and expended in that way under the Public Works Loan
Act of 1862-3. Whilst these improvements have been going on internally, many handsome new villa resi-
dences have been erected in the suburbs, in addition to the mansion-houses that previously existed. Amongst
the most important of both classes may be mentioned—The Old Hall, earl of Stamford; Sunnyside, Alfred
Reyner, esq.; Brookfield, Mrs. Mellor; Hollybank, George Mellor, esq.; Springfield, Joseph Fletcher, esq.;
Thornfield Hall, Frederick Reyner, esq.; The Rectory, Rev. Thomas Tickell; Croft House, John Ross Coulthart,
esq.; Portland Place, Samuel Lees, esq.; Delamere Place, Benjamin M. Kenworthy, esq.; Delamere House,
James Kershaw, esq.; Apsley Place, John Nield, esq.; Albert Terrace, Mrs. Heginbottom ; Stamford House,
Mrs. Jowett ; Groby Lodge, Hugh Mason, esq.; Ryecroft, Nathaniel Buckley, esq.; Moss Lodge, Abel Buckley,
esq.; and Welbeck House, James Knott, esq.
Amongst the new boroughs enfranchised by the act of 2 William TW. cap. 45, usually called the
Reform Act, Ashton-under-Lyne was enrolled, and the privilege of returning one member to parliament was
436 - Qſìje ??istory of £antagijire.
conferred upon this borough. By the act for “settling and describing the divisions of counties, and the
limits of cities and boroughs, so far as concerns the election of members to serve in parliament,” the new
borough of Ashton was made to comprehend the whole space over which the provisions of the police act, passed
in the 7 and 8 George IV. (1827), extend. The following are all the elections since the Reform Act of
1832 :—
ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE –ONE MEMBER.
ELECTORS IN 1832, 433.--IN 1865, 1144.
JElections. Elections.
1832. Dec. Lieut.-Colonel G. Williams . (L.) 176 1841. July Charles Hindley . . . . (L.) 303
Charles Hindley . g & (L.) 163 Jonah Harrop º * g (c.) 254
T. Williams Helps . . . (C.) 33 *me
*-*. 1847. Aug. Charles Hindley . g & (L.)
1835. Jan. Charles Hindley . & g (L.) 212 1852. July Charles Hindley . º g (L.)
T. Williams Helps . & g (c.) 105 1857. March Charles Hindley . & (L.)
Lieut.-Colonel G. Williams . (L.) 63 On Mr. Hindley's death :
**-sº 1857. Dec. Right Hon. T. M. Gibson * (L.) 522
1837. Aug. Charles Hindley . & º (L.) 237 Booth Mason . . * ; 390
James Wood . g * gº (c.) 201 - *ms.
J. R. Stephens * sº (CHARTIST) 19 1859. April Right Hon. T. M. Gibson º (L.)
**-* 1865. July Right Hon. T. M. Gibson * (L.)
Ashton has long enjoyed the name of a borough, but without the possession of any chartered rights.
In 1831, the inhabitants, anticipating their approaching honour, revived the office of mayor, which had lain
dormant for six-and-twenty years; and John Wood, esq. of the Old Hall, was appointed to the office by the
court-leet of the manor. In the Ashton County Court, in 1866, 2089 cases were determined, all without a
jury; in judgments for plaintiffs, the aggregate amount of debts was £4615; and there were ten
adjudications in bankruptcy.
The division of HARTSHEAD, containing 3116 statute acres, is supposed to take its name from a wood-
land district which anciently served as a covert for deer. The principal place in this portion of the parish
of Ashton is Stalybridge, the early possession of Ralph Staveleigh, whose daughter and heiress was married
to Sir Thomas Assheton, in the reign of Henry VII., and by her possessions augmented the family inheritance.
STALYBRIDGE is one of the great manufacturing stations on the confines of Lancashire and Cheshire. In
1857 it was incorporated by act of parliament, and is now governed by a mayor, six aldermen, and eighteen
town-councillors. This place is situated on both sides of the Tame, partly in the hundred of Macclesfield
in the county of Chester, and partly in the hundred of Salford in the county of Lancaster; 3200 of the
inhabitants residing in Staley ward, in the new parish of Staley; 6790 in the parish of Ashton, or
Lancashire ward; and 14,816 in the township and ward of Dukinfield, in the parish of Stockport, the
entire population of the borough in 1861 being 24,806. Excluding Staley ward, its number is 21,606.
The scenery here is bold and impressive, but those enemies to the picturesque, pit-coal and steam-
engines, have diminished its natural beauties, and substituted in their place beneficial employment for the
poor, and increased opulence for the wealthy. The views from the summit of “The Wild Bank,” in Cheshire,
elevated as it is 1300 feet above the level of the sea, are very extensive, and though the axe of
the woodman has prostrated the stately oaks which, in the time of the Staveleighs and for several ages
afterwards, clothed the neighbouring hills, yet there still remains much of grandeur and beauty. The ancient
mansion of the Staveleighs, with its cinq-gabled front, still exists as a farm-house near the line of the Roman
road. The growth of Stalybridge, both in population and trade, has been extremely rapid. In the
year 1748, the number of houses it contained amounted only to 34, and the number of inhabitants to 140.
Spinning of worsted yarn for the Nottinghamshire hosiers was then their principal employment, but the cotton
trade existed also to a small extent.” The first cotton-mill was erected by a person named Hall, in 1776,
in which carding was performed by water-power and spinning by hand, and about twenty years afterwards
the first steam-engine (of six horses'-power) was introduced into the same mill. The introduction of the
improved machinery into the manufacture of cotton encountered here a violent opposition ; and to such a
pitch were the threats of the populace and the apprehensions of the mill-owner carried, that the doors were locked
by day as well as by night, and the mill resembled a garrison. Time served to dissipate these alarms, and
to reconcile the people to the progress of mechanical improvements, and in 1801 Messrs. Lees, Cheetham,
and Co., erected an engine of forty horses'-power. No branch of the cotton trade has, perhaps, been so
* By the Reform Act, the manorial mayor of Ashton was consti- 3 At this time one dyer performed all the business of the place
tuted the returning officer of the borough. in his line, with the assistance of two mastiff dogs, which were
* The old bridge was some years ago superseded by a substantial made to grind the wares by turning a sort of canine treadmill,
new structure, built at a cost of £4000, and approached on the similar in construction to those in which squirrels are sometimes
Lancashire side by an excellent line of road, which greatly improved placed, and to which a piece of grinding machinery was attached.
the appearance of the place. —B.
#umbrel of $alfort—335ton-timber-3 gme #arish. 437
uniformly successful as the spinning, and it is to this circumstance principally that Stalybridge owes its
wealth and numbers, since it is a principle in political economy, almost as unerring as the descent of water in
physics, that population follows prosperous trade, and hence the inhabitants of this place have, within 113
years, increased from 140 to 21,606 souls within the borough.
The places of public worship have also increased rapidly within the present century. One of the most
handsome and striking public buildings in the place is the octagonal chapel on Cocker Hill, dedicated to St.
George, under the rector of Ashton, and in the patronage of the earl of Stamford and Warrington. The
living is at present (October 1867) vacant. The church was erected in 1776 by subscription, and was
taken down and rebuilt between 1778 and 1780 in consequence of its faulty construction. It possesses a
net income of £130 per annum, with an excellent parsonage-house situated at Thompson's Cross. New St.
George's Church, which stands about 300 yards to the north-west of the old chapel, was consecrated 24th
June 1840, and is capable of seating 1200 persons, of which seats 500 are entirely free. It is in the
Early English style of architecture, and cost in the erection fA500, which was raised by public grants and
private subscriptions. The living is a perpetual curacy in the gift of the earl of Stamford and Warrington,
the net income being £140 per annum, and the present incumbent the Rev. Frederick Charles Leeson.
Besides these two churches, the General Baptists have a handsome chapel, commodious schools, and a taste-
fully laid-out cemetery, in Wakefield Road, Stalybridge. The Wesleyans and Primitive Methodists have each
also neat places of worship and schools on the Ashton side of the river. In addition to the above, there are
three other churches belonging to the establishment in Stalybridge—namely, St. Paul's, St. John's, and
Holy Trinity; but as they, as well as several important dissenting chapels, are on the Cheshire side of the
Tame, they do not come under notice in a history of Lancashire. -
Till the year 1828 the government of Stalybridge was confided solely to the old constitutional
authority of the constable ; but in that year an act was obtained, vesting the government of “the town of
Stalybridge,” on both sides of the river, in twenty-one commissioners of police, to be chosen annually by
the ratepayers holding or possessing houses, lands, or rents of the yearly value of £50. In the following
year public gasworks were erected, and a new town-hall was built, with a capacious market-house, under
the management of the commissioners of police. This handsome public edifice was opened with much
state and splendour on the first day of the year 1832, and it has since that time been considerably enlarged
and improved. The principal entrance in Stamford Street is decorated with finely-proportioned columns, and
the general effect of the front façade is good and very imposing. This useful public building was erected at
the expense of the ratepayers. It contains, with its appurtenances, a prison, police-offices, court-rooms, and
collectors', surveyors', weights and measures, etc., offices, with a large hall where balls, concerts, and public
meetings are held. Here the county and borough justices hold petty sessions, and here the town-council
hold their quarterly and monthly meetings, besides the committee-meetings which occur two or three times
every week. Underneath the town-hall, with an entrance from Rasbottom Street, is the Stalybridge Market-
house, in which butcher's meat, green-groceries, fish, fruit, and other commodities, are bought and sold. In an
upper gallery are neatly-arranged stalls for the sale of haberdashery, hosiery, and other articles of wearing-
apparel, which meet with a ready sale on market and fair days, which are every Saturday, and on Easter
Monday and November 5th. Stalybridge has great facilities of carriage, one canal and three railway
companies eagerly striving for its traffic—namely, the Manchester and Huddersfield Canal; the London and
North-Western, the Lancashire and Yorkshire, and the Manchester, Sheffield, and Lincolnshire Railway
Companies. In this division is the united railway-station of these companies, from whence travelling and
traffic communication may be had to all parts of Great Britain and Ireland with the utmost celerity and
economy. Stalybridge also possesses two banks—viz, a branch of the Manchester and Liverpool District
Bank, which is on the Cheshire side of the Tame, and a branch of the Manchester and County Bank, which
was opened here on the Lancashire side in 1866, of which the manager is Mr. W. S. Burton. There is also
a bank for savings founded in 1828; offices, 39 Market Street, Stalybridge (Mr. Thomas Taylor, actuary), which
had deposits on the 20th November 1866 amounting to £67,854. The population of Stalybridge is almost
wholly engaged in cotton-spinning and manufacturing, and the many large factories, handsome villa residences,
and comfortable streets of cottage-houses, afford pleasing evidence of the general success which has accompanied
the trade; though, since the commencement of the American war in 1861, several of its wealthiest millowners
have been obliged to part with their factories, and all have suffered severely from the losses which resulted
from the five years' cotton-famine. Trade has certainly improved during the last twelve months, but the
price of raw cotton is 25 per cent higher than it was in 1860, which still keeps effectually closed some of
the largest mills in the borough. Amongst the many mansion-houses on the Lancashire side of Stalybridge
the following may be mentioned—viz. Thompson's Cross, David Harrison, esq.; West Hill, Thomas Harrison,
esq.; Highfield, W. H. Harrison, esq.; Stamford Lodge, William Bayley, esq.; Kelsall House, Henry Bayley,
esq.; and Woodfield, John Knott, esq. -
At a distance of about two miles from Stalybridge in a northerly direction, on a steep declivity trending
4.38 Qſìje 39tstory of 3Lancashire.
to the east, within the Hartshead division of Ashton-under-Lyne, is that populous manufacturing place called
MOSSLEY and MOSSLEY BOTTOM, where are numerous cotton and woollen establishments, and a population
rapidly increasing, though the exact number cannot be given, as the return is made with the parish in which
it is situated. In 1834 it was literally a village, and deemed unworthy of even a couple of lines in the first
edition of this work. In 1864 Mossley was placed under the provisions of the local government act, and its
affairs are now managed by a board of eighteen commissioners, who have made great improvements in the
paving, flagging, and draining of the place, during the few years that they have been invested with power.
It is well lighted with gas from the Stalybridge Gasworks, and plentifully supplied with water from the
Ashton and Stalybridge Waterworks. Its means of conveyance are also good, having the use of the Man-
chester and Huddersfield Canal, which passes along its lowest elevation, and the London and North-Western
Railway Company’s line of rails, stations, and warehousing, which are all placed midway on Mossley Brow
for the convenience of the passenger and goods traffic of the district. The turnpike road between Manchester
and Huddersfield also passes through this place, but it is very little used except by the farmers of the neigh-
bourhood. There is a chapel of ease at Upper Mossley, or Mossley Proper, which was erected and dedicated
to St. George in 1775, of which the rector of Ashton-under-Lyne is the patron, and the Rev. G. A. Jones the
present perpetual curate. The net income is valued at £180 per annum, with a very good parsonage-house
situated at a short distance to the north-west of the chapel. In connection with this chapel are excellent
schools and a master's house, which were erected in 1847 after designs by Mr. John Eaton, architect, at a
cost of £1100, and which are capable of accommodating 600 children. The Methodist New Connection
Chapel was erected in 1834 at a cost of £3000, and in connection with it schools which cost £800. The
Independents have a handsome chapel, with schools and minister's house attached, at Mossley Brow. There
are also places of worship and schools at Mossley belonging to the Roman Catholics (St. Joseph's), the Wes-
leyans, and Christian Church. The only secular building of a public nature at present existing in Mossley is
a Mechanics' Institute, which was erected in 1858, and which has proved of great value to the young men
of the place during the nine years that it has been open. There are two post-offices——one at Mossley and the
other at Mossley Bottom; and one bank—namely, a sub-branch of the Manchester and Liverpool District Bank.
Fairs are held on the last Friday in February, the 21st of June, and the last Monday in October ; and the wakes
are held on the last Saturday in July. The principal residences are Whitehall, the seat of George Mayall, esq.;
Highfield House, John Mayall, esq., J.P.; Apsley House, George Andrew, esq., J.P.; and Albert House, Robert
Buckley, esq. -
Close to Mossley, in a westerly direction, is Brown Edge Hill, on the top of which the Ordnance officers
had their station when engaged in the trigonometrical survey of this part of England, and from whence delightful
views are obtained of the numerous factories and dwelling-houses on the declivities of the valley below, as
well as of the heath-covered hills of Yorkshire, which rise to elevations exceeding 2000 feet. At a short
distance, still more westerly, is Hartshead Hill, 64 feet lower than Brown Edge, upon the crown of which a
conical-shaped tower of stone was erected in 1758, having a vane at its apex cut in the form of a hart's head.
On the western side of this tower the following lines were inscribed :-
“Look well at me before you go,
And see you nothing at me throw.”
“This Pike was erected by public subscription, 1758.”
In 1794 this tower or beacon became rent from top to bottom, and in a few years afterwards it fell into
ruins, nothing remaining except the large foundation-stones, which show that the tower was circular and 16
feet in diameter. As the view from this spot was extensive and beautifully diversified, a desire was felt by
many parishioners to have the Pike rebuilt, but nothing was done till 1863, when the foundation of one
intended to be 85 feet high was laid with much ceremony in the autumn of that year. As the contributions
towards the erection, however, came in much slower and smaller than had been anticipated, it never rose
higher than 40 feet above the ground, and it is now (1867) in an unfinished state, causing beholders to say
derisively of the promoters, “These men began, but were not able to finish" their undertaking.
At the Southern base of Hartshead, is the Knott Hill Reservoir, which at present supplies the borough of
of Ashton-under-Lyne and other places with water. These works belong to the Ashton corporation, who
purchased them in 1856 for £33,000 from a company incorporated by act of parliament in 1835. This
reservoir, which is capable of storing two hundred million gallons of water, covers fifteen statute acres of
land; and the tastefully laid-out walks, shrubberies, and plantations by which it is nearly surrounded render
Knott Hill one of the pleasantest retreats in the district. Here is carefully kept in an open space, on a level
With the surrounding grass, the only rain-gauge of the parish, and as the fall of rain at this place may be
useful for comparison with other places, the following table has been compiled from the official register:—
#umbret of $alfort—33 ſtom-umber23.png |}arisiſ. 439
TABLE SHOWING THE MONTHLY FALL OF RAIN AT KNOTT HILL, IN THE PARISH OF ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE AND COUNTY OF
LANCASTER, IN THE 12 YEARS ENDING DECEMBER. 31, 1867, WITH THE MONTHLY AND ANNUAL AVERAGE THEREOF.

1856. 1857. 1858. 1859. 1860. 1861. 1862. 1863. 1864. | 1865. 1866. 1867. Avenge of
MONTHS. 12 Years.
Inches. |Inches. |Inches. |Inches. |Inches. |Inches. |Inches. Inches. |Inches. Inches. |Inches. |Inches.
January 2.3 2.9 1.5 | 1.5 2.8 0.2 1.8 5.0 1.4 2.6 3.9 3.9 2.5
February 3.0 | 1.4 0.0 | 1.9 0.8 2.3 0.9 0.7 2.9 2.0 | 3.0 3.1 1.8
March . 0.1 1.6 2.3 3.7 3.5 4.1 3.3 0.6 2.7 1.0 1.1 1.7 2.1
April . 2.3 2.2 2.3 2.3 1.0 1.3 2.6 1.4 2.9 1.7 0.9 3.9 2.1
May 2.4 1.7 1.9 0.2 2.6 0.4 4.7 1.5 3.0 1.9 1.5 2.7 2.0
June 2.1 1.9 2.5 1.4 - || 6.2 4.4 2.8 4.0 2.4 0.8 4.5 2.9 3.0
July 3.3 4.5 2.4 2.3 2.4 3.6 3.2 1.2 1.7 1.6 3.1
August 6.4 6.1 1.9 5.9 4.5 1.9 3.3 3.5 2.2 3.9 4.0
September 3.7 2.3 || 3.9 || 4.0 2.2 4.0 4.4 5.7 3.2 0.7 | 6.0
October 2.0 1.2 3.8 3.3 3.8 0.9 4.3 4.9 2.1 4.4 2.3
November 3.1 1.2 0.7 2.6 2.6 4.3 1.0 3.1 2.9 2.6 5.8
December 3.2 1.4 3.5 2.6 1.9 1.8 2.5 3.1 1.8 0.5 3.6
Total Fall . 33.9 || 28.4 26.7 || 31.7 | 34.3 29.2 34.8 34.7 29.2 23.7 || 39.7
Besides the Knot Hill reservoir, there is another at Greenhurst, and a third near Hurst Brook; but in 1864
an act was obtained by the united corporations of Ashton-under-Lyne and Stalybridge to form vast reservoirs
at Swineshaw near Stayley for the more abundant supply of pure water to these boroughs, and to Dukinfield,
Mossley, Lees, and other populous places in the neighbourhood. Large numbers of the unemployed cotton-
operatives were engaged in the construction of these new waterworks when the cotton-famine distress prevailed
in Lancashire and Cheshire, and the funds required for the object were borrowed from the Commissioners of
Public Works at 3% per cent, as well as for other important local undertakings of public utility. There are
still many hundreds of men constantly employed on these works, and several years must elapse before they
are fully completed; but most of the able-bodied cotton-operatives have returned to the workshops and factories,
for which they were best fitted.
At a short distance to the west of Hartshead is the Twarl Hill Tithe-Stone, around which for centuries,
until tithe was commuted in the parish in 1831, the farmers of this district paid their tithe in kind or money
to the agent of the lord of the manor. It is situated by the side of the road which skirts the farm of Twarl
Hill, and is in substance a thick flagstone three feet Square, fixed upon strong Oaken supports at an elevation
of two feet from the ground, and firmly secured to the central support by a strong iron bolt. To preserve
the identity of this stone, and to save it from being ignorantly removed or destroyed, Mr. John Ross
Coulthart, of Ashton-under-Lyne, caused it in 1845 to be inscribed “Tythe Stone.”
At little more than half-a-mile to the south-west of the Knott Hill Reservoir, and within a mile and a
half of the town of Ashton-under-Lyne, is the important village or place called HIGHER HURST, which contains
a population of about 4500 persons, and is now governed by commissioners under the provisions of the Local
Government Act. Here are the extensive cotton-mills of Oldham Whittaker, esq., and of the representatives
of his deceased brother John, who directly and indirectly give employment to the whole community, and
whose unostentatious exertions for the mental, moral, and physical welfare of their workpeople, entitle them
to the gratitude, and commend them to the imitation, of the neighbourhood in which they reside. Forty
years ago this place was scarcely known, but from the time that the father of the present owner commenced
cotton-spinning and manufacturing it progressed surprisingly in Wealth and population, and never received any
serious check to its prosperity until overtaken by the cotton-famine in 1862, when it suffered for three or
four years with an intensity equal to that of any other place in Lancashire. Happily for Higher Hurst, the
Messrs. Whittaker provided liberally from the first for both religious and secular instruction in the village,
and as the two brothers differed in their religious opinions—Oldham being a churchman and John a dissenter
ample provision was made at Hurst for the dissemination of both opinions. In 1846 Hurst was formed into
an ecclesiastical district under the provisions of the 6th and 7th Vict. cap. 37, and in 1847 a church, dedicated
to St. John the Evangelist, was erected at an expense of £2500, capable of accommodating 600 persons. In
1858 a spire and two transepts were added to this church, at the sole expense of Mr. Oldham Whittaker,
which greatly enlarged the accommodation. The living is a perpetual curacy in the gift of the crown and
the bishop of Manchester alternately, the net income being £200 per annum, and the present incumbent the
Rev. John Henry Greenwood. Connected with this church are excellent Schools, erected in 1848 at a cost of
£1500, and also a parsonage-house built in 1855 at an expenditure of £1000. In King Street, on the south
side of the village, is a large handsome cruciform chapel, with a spire at the Southern angle of the intersection,
belonging to the Methodist New Connection, which was erected chiefly at the expense of the late John
Whittaker, esq., whose remains lie interred in its cemetery. It is capable of Seating 500 persons, and its
present minister is the Rev. Samuel Smith. On the opposite side of King Street to the chapel are unusually
440 Čije Đigturn of £amcagüirº.
large and tastefully-designed schools, capable of accommodating 1500 children, which were erected in 1860,
at a cost of upwards of £3000, chiefly by Mr. John Whittaker, for the use of the religious denomination to
which he belonged. Near Higher Hurst, in this division, are the large infantry and cavalry barracks erected
in 1843, at a cost of £42,500, as a check against breaches of the peace during “strikes” for higher wages by
the cotton-operatives. Since the erection of these barracks, which are very centrally situated for Ashton-
under-Lyne, Stalybridge, Dukinfield, and Mossley, no “strikes” of any importance have occurred, though
previous to that date they were frequent, one of the most widely-ramified having commenced on the 8th
August 1842, and lasted about two months. Besides the above places in this division of the parish, there are
also the following villages, hamlets, or small clusters of houses—namely, Stanrick Hill and Luzley; Heyrod,
Ridgehill, and Lanes; Hazlehurst, Hartshead, Broadcarr, Scout, Luzley, Blackrock, Hurst Nook, and Hurst
Brook, the last of which contains about 100 houses that have almost become incorporated with the borough
of Ashton-under-Lyne. The mansion-houses of Higher Hurst that may be named are—Hurst Hall,
Oldham Whittaker, esq., D.L.; Hurst House, Reginald Whittaker, esq.; Hurst Grange, A. B. Rowley, esq., J.P.;
and Prospect House, Edwin Whittaker, esq. -
AUDENSHAW, anciently called Aldwinshaigh, the western division of Ashton, is said to have been the
possession of a Saxon thane of the name of Aldwin. In 1422, William de Aldwinshaw had 100 acres of land
in this division of the parish, subject to an annual payment of 10s. 9d, as an acknowledgment to the lord of
Ashton. In the inquisitio post mortem of Otho Redishe, who possessed lands here in the reign of Henry VIII.,
this place is denominated Aldewynshaw in Ashton. It comprises an area of 2591 statute acres, with a
population of 6327, and is divided into the three hamlets” of Audenshaw, Little Moss-and-Waterhouses, and
Woodhouses, which contain the populous villages of Hooley Hill, North Street, Audenshaw, Little Moss,
Waterhouses, and Woodhouses. The most important and best known part of Audenshaw is Guide Bridge,
which is situated at its eastern extremity, where pass and repass with great frequency the trains of the London
and North-Western ; the Manchester, Sheffield, and Lincolnshire ; and the Oldham, Ashton-under-Lyne, and
Guide Bridge Junction Railway Companies. At Guide Bridge there are several large cotton-factories and
engineering ironworks, which are causing numerous dwelling-houses and shops to be erected in their vicinity,
so that there is every prospect of this being a very populous place within a few years. In 1844 the eastern
part of Audenshaw adjoining Guide Bridge was formed into an ecclesiastical district under the 6th and 7th
Victoria, cap. 37, and in 1846 a handsome new parish church with a fine spire was erected, at a cost of £3500,
by means of public grants and private subscriptions. The church, which is dedicated to St. Stephen, is in
the Early English style, and contains seats for 740 persons, of which 500 are free. The living is a perpetual
curacy, the net income is £200 per annum, the patronage is vested in the crown and the bishop of Manchester,
and the present incumbent is the Rev. T. T. Eagar, M.A. In 1847 spacious schools were also erected at
Guide Bridge, in connection with this church, at a cost of £1500, which are capable of accommodating 400
week-day scholars, and about 700 Sunday-school children. There was also a parsonage-house erected in 1858
to this church, half-a-mile to the west, which cost £800, to all of which the earl of Stamford granted sites
gratuitously. Near this part of Audenshaw there are also places of worship and schools belonging to the
Wesleyans and the New Connection Methodists, which have either been rebuilt or greatly enlarged within
the last few years.
Contiguous to Guide Bridge is the Shepley Hall estate, which has undergone much change within the
last thirty years, owing to the great number of dwelling-houses, workshops, and hat-manufactories that have
been erected upon it at the populous village of Hooley Hill, which wholly belongs to the Shepley estate, and
comprises of itself a population of 2500 inhabitants. Whilst these changes have been going on internally,
the present proprietor has been adding greatly to the size of the estate by the purchase of land adjoining to
it, so that Shepley is about double the area of what it was twenty years ago. The works employing the
largest number of work-people at Hooley Hill are the engineering works of Messrs. Martin & Smethurst,
the hat-manufacturing works of Messrs. Arrundale & Co. and Messrs Poole & Stopford, the Sewing-
machine works of Messrs. W. Jones & Co., and the cotton-manufactories of Messrs. J. H. Browson &
Co. “The Woodlands,” belonging to Mr. G. H. Bancroft, and “Hermon Hall,” the seat of Mr. J. Arrundale,
are both handsome villa residences near Hooley Hill, which have been erected recently on land belonging to
the Shepley estate. Shepley was the residence of Christopher de Vernon in 1422, and it was afterwards
occupied successively by the family of Manners de Shepley, whose heiress (Jane) conveyed it by marriage, in
the reign of Henry VI., to Geoffrey de Ashton, third son of Sir Thomas Assheton of Ashton-under-Lyne, by
Elizabeth Byron ; and thus a branch of the Ashtons became seated at Shepley, which they retained till 1713,
when Samuel Ashton, esq. sold the estates to John Shepley of Stockport, merchant ; and by that ascendency
which manufacturing opulence had in this part of the county gained over all other interests, it became vested
by purchase in the late John Lowe, esq., a successful calico-printer, who bequeathed it at his death to his
* Duchy Records, vol. v. Inquis, post mortem, 14 Henry VIII. * Hamlet, in the parish of Ashton-under-Lyne, has come to mean
(1522) num. 48. a district or place which maintains separately its own highways.
#umbrel of Salfort—ashton-umler-ignt parish. 441
nephew, the present proprietor, Edward Lowe Sidebotham, esq., J.P. and D.L., of Lansdowne Place,
Cheltenham. The calico print-works at Shepley, the source at one time of large profits, have been sold with
eleven acres of land to Messrs. Crawford, Rogerson, & Co., and turned into a linen-manufactory, Mr. Thomas
Rogerson, one of the partners, occupying the mansion-house as tenant. The present Shepley Hall has no
pretensions to antiquity, and must have been erected within the last 150 years. It is a roomy brick structure
three storeys high, standing on a promontory overlooking the windings of the river Tame, which here flows
slowly and sullenly in its course to the Mersey. On the site of the present residence called High Ash, which
is situated on the north side of the old turnpike road between Guide Bridge and Audenshaw village, formerly
stood a fine old building, said to have been erected in 1444, consisting of large and spacious rooms wainscoted
and panelled, unquestionably the residence of some family of distinction, for, on removing several coats of
plaster from the walls in 1814, when the house was taken down, a number of paintings of life-size figures
were found in excellent preservation, and at the head of the apartments were the arms of Henry VI, richly
emblazoned. High Ash was formerly the seat of Robert Sandford, a descendant of the Sandfords of Thorpe
Salvini, and ancestor of the Sandfords of Nuthurst. John Sanderson or Sandiford held a great part of
Audenshaw in 1422, and from him the hall descended in twelve generations to John Sandford, who, with his
two brothers, lost a large part of their estates by their adherence to the royal cause in the civil wars of the
fifteenth century. The estate now belongs to the earl of Stamford and Warrington, who has lately sold
considerable portions of it for building purposes, the last sale being four statute acres to James Buckley, esq.
to preclude persons from building too closely to his mansion-house of Ryecroft. The farm-house and offices
are situated on a plateau of land slightly elevated above the level of the adjoining turnpike road, and several
tall ash-trees at the east end of the barn convey the idea that the estate might have derived its distinctive
appellation originally from the number and luxuriance of the high ashes that grew upon it. On the south
side of the turnpike road, between Guide Bridge and Audenshaw village, is North Street, a long range of about
sixty houses, chiefly occupied by persons employed in the hat-shops and cotton-factories of the neighbourhood.
At Low Ash, which is situated about 200 yards to the west of High Ash, stood for many centuries the Tithe-
Barn of the Audenshaw division, where tithe in kind was delivered to the rector of the parish prior to the
practice of money being paid instead, or to tithe being legally commuted. About seventy years ago the barn
was taken down and its site turned into a small garden, which is at present in the possession of Mr. James
Newton, hatter, who still pays the rector 10s. per annum for the garden formed out of the site of the tithe-
barn. Close to Low Ash is Audenshaw village, containing about sixty houses, the number having been nearly
doubled within the last ten years. The inhabitants are chiefly employed in farming and hat-manufacturing,
and the most important places connected with it are Hobson's Free School, mentioned with the Ashton
charities, and Red Hall, whose present proprietor is Mr. James Taylor of Newton Heath, who lets it to Mr.
Isaac Shimwell of Manchester. This is a large three-storey brick edifice, suggestive of its name, erected in
1672 by Captain Stopford, and subsequently possessed by Mr. Edward Hobson, the founder of the adjoining
school, who died there in 1764, leaving to trustees certain property for the instruction of the poor children
of the neighbourhood, which yielded in 1867 the following sums, viz. –
From the Railway Hotel at Fairfield and land adjoining g g ſº & * £83 6 ()
From the Manchester, Sheffield, & Lincolnshire Railway Company for an occupation road 7 4 5
From a rent-charge on land at Didsbury from the executors of Mrs. Andrew g T.2 0 0
From £733; 17:10, 3 per cent bank annuities g º g i.e. e g 22 0 4
#124 10
For many years the most rancorous disputes prevailed amongst the trustees of this charity, the majority
insisting upon its benefits being limited to children of dissenters, but within the last four or five years trus-
tees have been appointed who now admit poor children of all denominations, though most of them pay
something toward their instruction. The trustees comprised in the new trust-deed are Edward Lowe Side-
botham, Joshua Wood, Joseph Stanfield Grimshaw, John Ingham, William Hadwin, Ely Andrew, Percy
Orrell, George Henry Grimshaw, James Kershaw, and John Ingham junior. Audenshaw Lodge, for many
generations the residence of the Stanfields, was conveyed to James Grimshaw, esq. of Droylsden, on 1st
February 1722, by the marriage of Jane, daughter and heiress of Robert Stanfield of Audenshaw Lodge,
the last heir-male survivor of the Stanfields. The estate afterwards descended from father to son for three
generations, and now vests in Mr. John Grimshaw, solicitor, High Bank, Gorton, who lets the property to
Mr. George Timms. On the north side of Ashton Moss is Buckley Hill, an estate of about 120 statute acres,
with a fine old house upon it, now belonging to the earl of Stamford, and tenanted by Mr. James Greenwood,
but which was possessed in 1618 by Mrs. Elizabeth Buckley, whose name it still bears. Its quaintly-formed
doors and windows, and the ornamental brick-work on its chief façade, though partly altered to suit modern
notions of comfort, indicate distinctly that at the time of its erection it must have been a stately mansion.
Cinderland Hall, one of the oldest houses in the parish, was the residence of the Cinderlands in the twelfth
century, and in 1422 belonged to the heir of Sir Thomas Hatfield. The estate comprised originally upwards
3 L
442 - Çiſe £istory of 3Lancashire.
of 100 statute acres, lying beautifully on the southern side of the river Medlock, which at that part has
always been finely wooded, though the Smoky atmosphere of the district is now telling perceptibly upon the
foliage. The hall, which is on elevated ground, is of very plain exterior, but it must always have exhibited
in its front entrance a remarkably good example of an old English door-porch. The interior, which has been
altered and re-altered in numerous ways, is very strongly timbered with oak, and contains some interesting wood-
carvings. The estate now belongs to the earl of Stamford and Warrington, and is tenanted by Mr. John
Hyde. Medlock Vale, a beautiful rural residence on the north bank of the Medlock, was erected in 1765 by
Otho Hulme, esq., an extensive calico-printer, who had his works a little lower down the stream. At his
death the estate was divided between his two sons, one of them taking the calico printing works and the
other the landed property, which at that time were both valuable. Subsequently the calico-printing business
became unprofitable, when the extensive gardens, conservatories, pineries, and pleasure-grounds, were allowed
to go to decay; and at the death of Mrs. J. W. Hulme, a few years ago, the whole estate was sold to the late
John Wood, esq. of Clayton Bridge, whose trustees still retain it, and let the mansion-house to Mr. William
Shaw, and the farming-land to Mr. Edward Broomhead. In the hamlet of Woodhouses, which comprises
nearly 200 separate dwellings, many of them being occupied by handloom weavers, there are three old edifices,
at no great distance from each other, called Diamond Hall, Within Hall, and Brick Hall, which merit the
attention of the curious in the domestic architecture of two centuries ago. Also at Waterhouses, where there are
about twenty rusticated cottages, strangely grouped together on both sides of the Medlock in a deep hollow,
there is a fine old-fashioned half-timbered residence, called Woodhouse, which was the habitation of Gregory
de Bardsley in 1422, but in 1602 it had become the property, with the estate belonging to it, of Sir Richard
Hoghton of Hoghton, who sold it in that year to Robert Bardsley, a lineal descendant of Gregory de Bards-
ley. The Bardsleys must have again alienated it, for Joseph Bennison was the owner in 1717, and subse-
quently the Knights became the proprietors, who retained it for about 100 years, and then sold it to the
present owner Mr. Wright Chadderton. The estate is now divided into two farms, Mr. Richard Chadderton
Occupying one and Mr. Samuel Holker the other. Amongst the modern mansion-houses of the Audenshaw
division are Ryecroft Hall, Mrs. Buckley; Audenshaw Hall, Thomas Mason, esq.; Mere Bank, Ely Andrew, esq.
KNOTT (or NUT) LANES, the north-western division of Ashton, claims an antiquity for its name as high
as the time of Canute the Dane, who is said to have halted here on his march from the western to the
eastern coast. It comprises an area of 2418 statute acres, the four hamlets of Woodpark-and-Knott-Lanes,
Lees, Crossbank, and Alt Edge, with the villages of Taunton, Waterloo, Bardsley, Lees, Hey, parts of
Millbottom and Birks, Rhodes Hill, Lanehead, High-Knolls, Alt, and Alt Hill, including altogether a
population of 7310. Lees, the most populous and important of the places mentioned, was the residence of
the Mayall family in 1422, and in 1744 it had only four separate dwelling-houses. It has now more than
500, is well lighted with gas, amply supplied with water from reservoirs in the vicinity, and within the last
few years it has adopted the Local Government Act, by which valuable improvements have been effected. It
is situated upwards of four miles to the north-east of the borough of Ashton-under-Lyne, and contains many
large cotton-factories and other works, which usually afford ample employment to the inhabitants; but
the stoppage of the mills during the American war brought severe distress upon Lees, as upon other
places in Lancashire. Within the last twelve months trade has improved, but the utter ruin of one or two
of its principal manufacturers has checked its prosperity and thrown many of its workpeople out of
employment. In 1846 a new parish was formed at this place under the 6th and 7th Vict, cap. 37, entitled St.
Thomas's parish, Lees-field, and in the year following a church was erected in the Early English style of
architecture, which cost £5550, obtained from grants and private subscriptions. It contains sittings for 1400
persons, of which 500 are free. The living is a perpetual curacy of the annual value of £200, in the gift of the
crown and the bishop of Manchester, the first and present incumbent being the Rev. Robert Whittaker, M.A.
of St. John's College, Cambridge. The New Connection Methodists, Christian Brethren or Barkerites, and
Primitive Methodists, have chapels at Lees, and all the places of worship have week-day and Sunday schools
in connection with them. In 1850 a handsome building, called the “People's Hall,” was erected for the
accommodation of the literary associations of the place, in which also lectures and public meetings are held.
Near Lees is a strong chalybeate spring, analysed by Dr. Walker of Huddersfield in 1828, which was much
resorted to about that time for scorbutic affections, but for the last thirty-five years the public have had no
faith in its curative virtues. Close to Lees on the north is the ancient village of Hey, containing about eighty
dwelling-houses, where was erected in 1742 the present chapel-of-ease to the mother-church of Ashton-under-
Lyne, and where it is not improbable a still earlier fabric of the same kind existed. The living is a perpetual
curacy of the annual value of £150, in the gift of the rector of Ashton-under-Lyne. From 1764 to 1810 the
Rev. John Beckett was minister of this chapel, and the present incumbent is the Rev. G. D. Grundy, M.A.
of Brazenose College, Oxford. In 1839 a large school was erected in connection with this chapel, which cost
upwards of £1000, and which is capable of accommodating 500 scholars. To the south of Lees and Hey,
near the romantic valley of the Rocher, where are druidical remains hollowed out of the solid rock in the bed
#umbret of Šalforn—33 ſtom-umber-ſume 3 arish. 443
of the river, is the ancient mansion called Deanshut, which in 1611 belonged to John Sandiford, gent, and
at that time contained some fine specimens of oak-carving. About 100 years ago it was in the possession of
Samuel Swire, gent, but it now belongs to Lord Stamford, with the land adjoining, and is tenanted by
Messrs. Lees and Booth, who have divided the hall into seven separate dwellings. The modern mansion and
grounds of Park Bridge, where the Leeses have resided for at least 100 years, and where a hand-millstone or
quern was found at the bottom of a draw-well in 1845, dated 1496, have been greatly enlarged lately. They
occupy an elevated site near Deanshut, and belong to Samuel Lees, esq. of Hoghton Street, Southport; but
are at present occupied by his son Samuel Lees jun., esq., who has the chief management of the large
ironworks in the valley below, where is iron-ore in abundance, but the low price of pig-iron keeps the blast-
furnaces for smelting it out of employment. These ironworks cover many acres of land, and have been
greatly extended within the last ten years, particularly in the puddling and forging departments, affording
altogether employment to a very large number of the workpeople in the neighbourhood. The fine new mill
of five storeys for the making of rollers, is from a design by John Eaton, esq., architect ; and when that is
taken in connection with the other buildings, the surrounding woods and precipices, and the magnificent
railway viaduct which here spans the valley, the Medlock, and a portion of the works, it is seldom that a scene
can be witnessed more strikingly picturesque. Alt Hill, which is situated a little to the south of Park Bridge,
was the residence of the Lees family in the seventeenth century, whose heiress, Alice, conveyed the estate by
marriage to Jonathan Pickford of Macclesfield, whose grandson, Joseph Pickford, took the name of Radcliffe,
in pursuance of the will of his maternal uncle, William Radcliffe, esq. Mr. Joseph Pickford-Radcliffe was
born at Alt Hill, 8th May 1744, and after marrying Catherine, daughter and heiress of Thomas Percival, esq.
of Royton, he was created a baronet, 2d November 1813, for his firm and intrepid conduct as a magistrate
for the West Riding of Yorkshire at Milnes Bridge, near Huddersfield, in a period of great public commotion.
Lord Stamford is the present owner of the estate, and lets it to Messrs. Lees and Booth, the colliery
proprietors, who have divided the mansion into six cottages for their workpeople. Higher Alt Hill was
formerly occupied by the ancestors of the Heginbottoms of Ashton-under-Lyne, who held one of the six farms
there by a life-lease from Lord Stamford; and as the old building designated “the Factory” was at the
time also in their possession, it is highly probable that it was in that structure they commenced their career
as cotton-spinners. The late Samuel Heginbottom, esq., of Henry Square, and also the Samuel Heginbottom,
esq., who built and died at Croft House, Ashton-under-Lyne, were both born at Mr. John Howard's farm at
Higher Alt Hill, but no descendants of the Heginbottoms now reside there, the present tenant's name being
Nicholas Saxon. Bardsley, which is situated half-way between Ashton and Oldham, is supposed to have
been a druidical retreat, and was unquestionably the seat of a local family of the name, who held it under
the lord of Ashton by the feudal payment of a rose and a penny annually." This family possessed the estate
in 15 Henry VIII. (1522), and it afterwards passed by marriage to the Tetlows, by whom it was sold in
1617 for £220 to Adam Holland of Newton, who resold it to Isaac de Howe of Hoghton, whose descendant
disposed of it to David Harrop of Micklehurst in 1681, whose great-grandson, Jonah Harrop, esq. of Bardsley,
died 9th September 1866, bequeathing the estate to his grandson, W. E. M. Hulton, esq. of Droylsden, on
condition that he should take the name and assume the arms of Harrop. In compliance with that
testamentary injunction, Mr. Hulton took the name and arms of Harrop by royal license, dated 8th December
1866, so that Bardsley house and estate now vest in William Edward Montagu Hulton-Harrop, esq. Bardsley
is a populous and progressing place, containing upwards of 150 dwelling-houses, 3 cotton-factories, 3 machine-
shops, and several coal-pits that are worked by Messrs. Samuel Wild and Co. In 1844 a church, dedicated
to the Holy Trinity, was erected at Bardsley in the Norman style, with a square tower at its south end; it
cost nearly £3000, and contains seats for 600 persons. The living is a perpetual curacy in the gift of Hulme's
trustees, the net income being £200 per annum, and the present incumbent the Rev. H. S. Byrth, M.A. of
Brazenose College, Oxford. There are also excellent schools belonging to this church, which cost upwards of
fºo()0, and a good parsonage-house, which cost £1000. Adjacent to Bardsley House, which commands a
fine view of the Medlock and its wooded valley, stands the largest oak of the parish, which measures 16 feet
4 inches in circumference at the height of 2 feet from the ground, whilst the branches extend over an area
of 1360 square yards. A large quantity of gold coins of the reigns of James I. and Charles I. were discovered
in an old stable at Bardsley about 50 years ago. Two farms, bequeathed to Brazenose College, Oxford, by
William Hulme, esq., one of the benefactors of Lancashire, are in this vicinity. Taunton Hall, one of the
oldest houses in the parish, is also in this division, but there is now very little remaining to attest its high
antiquity, though it is established beyond all doubt that it was the residence of Thomas Claydon in the reign
of Henry VI. (1422-1461), and of Richard Claydon in the reign of Henry VIII. (1509–1547).” The estate
was subsequently the property of William Walker, and his heiress Bridget, who conveyed it by marriage to
John Chadwick, who was living, and also his son John, in 1664.” The estate afterwards became the property
of the Mashiter family, who sold it in 1846 to the Sidebottoms of Mottram and Etherow, the present owners.
1 The Ashton Rent-Roll, 1422. * Calendar of Pleadings. * Dugdale's Visitation. Barritt's MSS. Corry's Lancashire.
444 Ǻr 3%istorg of £ancashire.
It is said that a number of deeds relating to the Barbour family, and several seals of the reign of Henry
VIII., were found in the hall in 1836. Near Taunton is a chalybeate spring; at Limehurst, several lime-
springs; and at Riversvale was found in 1844 a strong sulphur spring, which was wholly unfit for Ordinary
purposes, and therefore it was drained into the Medlock. Amongst the mansion-houses of this division are
Bardsley House, W. E. M. Hulton-Harrop, esq.; Riversvale, Charles Suthers, esq.; LimeSpring House, William
Shaw, esq.; Park Bridge, Samuel Lees jun., esq.; Birch House, Gaylard Hadwen, esq.; Rhodes Hill, Thomas
Taylor, esq.; Hey Lane, Samuel Taylor, esq.; and Springside, Samuel Mayall, esq.
Amongst the early establishments of the Moravians in England was one adjoining to this parish. Here
they had erected houses for their minister, and for the single brothers and sisters, along with a commodious
chapel for conducting public worship, but the tenure of the property not proving satisfactory, they migrated
from Dukinfield to the township of Droylsden, at nearly an equal distance between Manchester and Ashton.
Having contracted in 1783 for a small estate, consisting of sixty acres of land, for a term of 999 years, they
erected a regular settlement upon it, to which they gave the name of FAIRFIELD. The streets of the village,
which are broad and spacious, are laid out parallel to each other. The principal buildings, facing the South,
are in a line, and the east and west are built on a uniform plan, with a terrace in front. The chapel, occupying
the centre, has two wings; one being the minister's house, and the other a boarding-school for girls. At the
extremity of the terrace are two large houses—one occupied by single men, and the other by single women;
below which are well-arranged gardens, with gravel walks in the centre, leading from the chapel to the
burial-ground, where the separation of the mortal remains of the sexes is preserved after death. The principal
street lies north of the terrace, and is parallel to it, being connected with it by two short streets at right
angles. In this street, besides private houses, are a boarding-school for boys, a good shop, and a commodious
inn. The Settlement is Ornamented with plantations; and the chapel, which is spacious, has an excellent
organ, which, adding its melodious tones to the vocal choir, imparts a high degree of Solemnity to the reli-
gious services. Though there is something of the monastic character about the Moravian settlements, the
vow of celibacy is never taken ; and though the unmarried inmates live in communities, each person enjoys
his property, or the fruits of his industry, without any community of goods. Originally descended from the
Sclavonian branch of the Greek Church, the Moravians never implicitly submitted to the authority of the
papal See ; for though their princes, from the year 967, adhered to the Roman communion, the people
resolutely retained the Bible in their hands, and performed the church service, according to the ritual of their
fathers, in the vulgar tongue. No sect has endured with greater constancy the fiery ordeal of persecution ;
and amongst the confessors and martyrs in the 14th century was John Huss, the Moravian divine and
reformer, who sealed his adherence to his faith with his blood at the stake. Without any formal creed of
their own, except the standard of Holy Writ, these simple-minded people acknowledge and adopt the twenty-
one doctrinal articles of the unaltered confession of Augsburg, as presented to the emperor Charles W., in the
German language, in 1530; which articles agree substantially and essentially with the thirty-nine articles of
the established Church of England. In addition to the establishment at Fairfield, the Moravians have
settlements at Fulneck, near Leeds; at Ockbrook, near Derby; and at Gracehill, near Ballymena, in the
county of Antrim, in Ireland. There are also congregations of the “United Brethren,” which is another
name for the . Moravians, in London, Bristol, and Bath, and several other parts of the kingdom ; but as
proselytism from other Christian communities forms no part of their system, they are only a small body.
Indifferent as they are to making converts to their own sect, it is to their imperishable honour that no body
of Christians, with means so slender, has made efforts so great, or so successful, for the conversion of the
heathen ; and the Hottentots, the Greenlanders, the Esquimaux, the Negroes, and the North American
Indians, have erected for their missionaries monuments in their native wilds, more durable than brass and
more precious than gold.
|RECTOR'S OF ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE.
(From Vernon's Ea tracts from the Episcopal Register of Lichfield.—Harl. MSS. 2075.)
Date of Institution, Rectors. On whose Presentation. Vacancy.
1305. 15 Cal. Apl. Nicholas Arderna, Cler. . . | Tho. de Grelle.
Adamus de Arderna
1324. g ſº Simon Barnesley, Acolyte . Dns. Jo. le Ware, miles.
1353. & tº Tho. Rodeford, Capell. . . Johanna q. fuit ux. Dni. Jo. le | Disp. in Obseq. Tho. Holland, mil.
Ware, mil. prebiennium.
1362. 4 Id. Maij | Tho. fil. Tho. del Wyke . . Reg. la Ware.
1371. g º Tho. de la Ware e ſº . Dns. Ludovicus Clifford, miles . . p. m. Tho. del Wyke.
1373. † & Jo. de Marchford . g . Dns. Jo. la Ware, miles . . . p. res. Mºi Jo. de la Ware.
1374. g † Henricus Nettleworth, Rector | Dns. Jo, la Ware & º . . p. mut. Cum Jo. de Marchford
Ecctic de Wakerley º
1458. 16 Nov. Laurentius Ashton, Capeth. . | Tho. Ashton, miles
#umbret of Šalfort—335ton-unner-3 gnc 33arisiſ. 445
(From the Erection of the Bishopric of Chester, 33 Henry VIII. 1541, to 1867.)1
Date of Institution, Rectors. On whose Presentation. Vacancy.
1554, 20 August Wiffs Rogerson tº g . . | Tho. Stanley, Knt., Son of Edward, Death of last incumbent.
Earl of Derby -
1557. 12 June Hugo Griff, in Decretis Doctor King Philip and Queen Mary . Do. do.
1639. . e Henry Fairfax, D.D.
1645. . * John Harrison,
1683, . g Thos. Ellison. -
1700. 3 May John Simon Delaheuze . . . Geo., Earl of Warrington . . Death of Tho. Ellison, the last in-
- cumbent.
1727. . * John Penny, clerk, A.M. * - DO. & ſº . . Death of J. S. Delaheuze.
1758. 9 September George Booth . e tº Tho. Hunt (devisee under will of Death of John Penny.
- George, Earl of Warrington)
1797. 1 December | Oswald Leycester, A.M. . . George Henry, Earl of Stamford | Death of Sir George Booth, Bart.
à and Warrington
1799, 5 April Hon. Anchitel Grey, A.M. e Do. do. Resignation of Oswald Leycester.
1810. 7 May John Hutchinson, A.M. . º Do. do. Do. of Hon. Anchitel Grey.
1816. 16 May Geo. Chetwode, A.M. e º Do. do. Do. of John Hutchinson.
On Saturday, May 11, 1867, the foundation-stone of a building for Free Baths, etc., in connection with
the Oxford Mills, was laid by Mrs. Hugh Mason, the building being erected at the sole cost of Mr. Hugh
Mason, in place of a building with like purposes erected by him in 1860. The new building will include
reading, lecture, and smoking rooms, library and dining-rooms, warm and cold baths. It will cover an area
of 76 by 72 feet ; the reading-room, 30 by 34 feet; smoking-room, 24 by 18 feet; lecture-room, 50 by 30
feet, accommodating 400 persons. There will be six baths for men, three for women ; a plunge-bath with a
water area of 26 by 15 feet, 6 feet deep at one end, and 3 feet six inches at the other. Externally the
building will be of stock-bricks, with facings of stone and blue bricks; the style Italian. Estimated cost
about £3000. The whole institution is for the free use of Mr. Mason's tenants and workpeople connected
with the Oxford Mills.
As the charter of incorporation granted to Ashton-under-Lyne, dated 29th September, 11 Vict. (1847), has never been printed,
a few of its principal features are recorded —After reciting the Municipal Corporations Act of 1835, the Amendment Act of 1837,
and the petition of the inhabitants, with its consideration in the privy council (31st May 1847), and the advice of the council to grant
a charter of incorporation for the district comprised within the boundary of the parliamentary borough of Ashton-under-Lyne,
including also that portion of the Audenshaw division within Co. Lancaster which lies between the parliamentary borough of Ashton
and Co. Chester, and is now comprised within the Ashton-under-Lyne police boundary or district, it grants to the inhabitants of
the town or borough, within the district described, to be for ever one body politic and corporate, to be styled, “The Mayor,
Aldermen, and Burgesses, of the Borough of Ashton-under-Lyne ;” with perpetual succession, and all powers, authorities, immunities,
and privileges given by the Municipal Corporations Act, and its amending acts, and with a common seal. The council to consist of a
mayor, eight aldermen, and twenty-four councillors ; the borough to be divided into four wards—Market, St. Michael's, St. Peter's,
and Portland Place, within boundaries described. Henry Gartside, esq., by 1st October 1847, to make out an alphabetical burgess-
list, a copy of which to be affixed on door of sessions-house eight days before 12th October. Lists of claims and objections to be
affixed before 28th October, and to be revised by two barristers on 6th November. First election of councillors on 22d November,
and of aldermen and mayor (“who is to be elected out of the said aldermen or councillors”), on 30th November 1847. Abel
Buckley, esq., to act as returning officer at this first election, and at any on account of vacancies before 1st March 1848. All
subsequent elections, and those of auditors and assessors for the borough, to be held in the manner, form, and time, specified in the
Municipal Corporations Act.
1 With the exception of the three rectors in the 17th century, from which neglect, between 1660 and 1668, very few institutions
this second list is from the Register Book in the Bishop's Court at were entered in the books. The names of the three rectors in the
Chester, in which there is a blank from 1557 to 1700, which appears 17th century have been obtained from the churchwardens' accounts
from a memorandum in the book to have been the result of the re- of the parish, where the rector's signature appears from time to
missness of Mr. John Dwight, the registrar during the times of Drs. time.—H.
Bryan Walton, Henry Fern, and George Hall, bishops of Chester—
446 Qſìje #istory of 3Lancašijire.
PRESTWICH-CUM-OLDHAM PARISH.
£º the Domesday Survey no mention is made of any church existing in this place at that
tº 6% period, though it is one of the most extensive parishes in Lancashire. The origin of the
º, knightly family of Prestwich is lost in remote antiquity, their ancient tenure justifying the
º ) opinion that they were seated at Prestwich before the Norman Conquest. A Robert de
- gº **ś, Prestwich died in or before the 7th John (1206). He was succeeded by his son Adam de
*** **-ī-06 Prestwich, who was probably father to a second and grandfather to a third Adam, whose
widow, Alicia, was living in 1325. The second Adam de Prestwich probably married an heiress of the family
of Pendlebury, and thus the manor of Wickleswick, in the parish of Eccles, came to the Prestwich family.
From old deeds (19 to 27 Edward I. 1291-99) it appears that Adam, Lord of Prestwich, was infeoffed of the
manor of Quickelswyk ; and in 29 Edward I. (1301) this Adam gave the manor to his son Henry, with
remainder to four daughters. Henry de Prestwich, or de Quickelswyk, had a charter from Beatrix, daughter
of Elias de Penulbury, in 1331. He had an only daughter, Katharine de Prestwyche, lady of Quickelswyk,
who married John, son of Robert de Boulde. About 1320, by default of male issue, the Prestwich estates
passed in the female line, in marriage, to a branch of the Langleys of Langley, now first settled at Agecroft."
In the reign of Henry III, one Adam de Prestwych held four bovates of land in Alkrington for four shillings,
by a tenure which was even then denominated ancient; in Prestwich itself and in Failsworth, he was tenant
in chief of the king for ten bovates of land, in thanage, for twenty-four shillings.” To Adam de Heton he let
four bovates of land for ten shillings; this land was probably in Heaton, whence the tenant derived his
surname." In Failsworth he let two bovates of land to Gilbert de Notton for four shillings.” This Adam de
Prestwych, with John de Prestwych, Sir John Byron, and others, were witnesses to the charter granted by
Thomas de Grelley, in 1301, to the burgesses of Manchester.
In Birch's MS. Feodarium of the Duchy of Lancaster, of the era of Henry the first duke, who died 35
Edward III. (1361), Alicia de Prestwich is stated to hold a bovate of land in Penulbery by service of 4s. per
annum for all services," a carucate of land in Alkrington for 10d. per annum, and a carucate of land in Prest-
wich and Heton by a service of 20s.' Eleven years after this period we find this lady presenting a petition
to the king in council, complaining that, while under the protection of the law at Chester, there came Richard
Starky, Henry Starky, William de Leye, Robert de Wynynton, William Biran of Makerfield, John de Brade-
ford, Henry de Newham, and several other ill-doers from Chestershire, who took, drove, and carried away
her goods and chattels at Prestwiche and Alkeryngton to the value of £200 ; but such was the impotency of
the local tribunals at that period that she could obtain no remedy: she therefore prays redress, saying that
she has nothing to maintain her estate ; and the king directs that a writ should be issued against the
trespassers.” From the rent-roll of the earl of Lancaster, it appears that in 25 Edward II. (1297) Alicia de
Prestwich paid £1: 6:8 for lands in Prestwich, Holonet, and Sholesworth ; (Holonet being probably Heaton,
and Sholesworth Shoresworth), and also 10s. for Penulbury.
By an inquisition post mortem of Roger de Longley, taken at Lancaster, March 14, 1394, it appears
that he was seised of Agecroft mansion and land, with land in Penulbury, and a tenement called Tettelawe
Tetlow], in Burghton, as well as a parcel of land called Birchehawe in Oldham. The jurors also found that
a fine was levied in 7 Edward II. (1313-14) between Adam de Prestwiche, querent, and Thomas de Wolveley,
deforcient, of the manors of Prestwiche and Alcrington, and of the advowson of the church of Prestwich, by
which the right to these manors, etc., was vested in Adam for life; after his decease in Alice de Wolveley
for her life, with remainders to her sons Thomas and his heirs, Robert, her daughter Alice, and heirs, etc.
Thomas, her eldest son, had two daughters, Margaret and Agnes, and died ; Margaret took the veil in
November 1360, and Agnes died seised of the whole of the manors, advowson, etc., without direct heir.
Robert, brother of Thomas, also died without issue ; and after the death of Agnes, Richard de Longley, and
Joan his wife (daughter and heir of Alicia, sister of Robert), entered into these manors and the advowson, in
1 A collateral branch of the Prestwich family held the manor of * Testa de Wevill, folio 405.
Hulme, certainly from 1434 to 1660, when the estate there (mortgaged 8 Ibid. Harl. MSS. cod. 5172, fo. 17.
in 1654) was transferred by act of parliament to the Mosleys of Ancoats. 4 Ibid, * Ibºd;
In April 1664 the last male representative of this branch, Thomas 6 nº s 7 Thº º
Prestwich, esq., was created a baronet, which title expired with him ; Tiff. Salforthshire. Ibid. &
at least the baronetcy was declared to be extinct in 1689. The last Soi- 8 Petitions in Parliament. 15 and 16 Edw. II. n. 118. Orig.
disant baronet, Sir John Prestwich, died in Dublin, August 15, 1795, in Turre Lond.




#umbrel of $alfort—lºrestinicºrum-9ſuffam. 33arišij, 447
right of Joan. After Joan's death, her son and heir entered, being aged fourteen. These manors and the
advowson were seized into the hands of the Duke of Lancaster (1374-5) by reason of the nonage of this
Roger, being held by knight-service of the duke. Roger died in October 1393, and Robert, his son and heir
(say the jurors), is fifteen years of age, and was married to Katherine, daughter of William de Atherton,
knight, in the lifetime of his father. By an inquisition in the Duchy Office, without date, but which appears
to have been taken in the reign of Henry VIII., Robert Langley is found possessed of the advowson of the
church of Prestwich, and messuages, lands, woods, mills, and other property in Alerynton, Crompton, and
Oldham, in this parish, and in Pennilbury, Tetlowe, Broghton, Mydilton, and Salford." Among the inqui-
sitions in the early part of the reign of Elizabeth, there is an imperfect document without date, taken on the
death of Sir Robert Langley, which occurred on the 3d of September 1561, and in which Sir Robert is found
to have died seised of the manor of Prestwich, the manor of Pendlebury, and the manor of Aggecroft,
together with lands and messuages, and other property in Alterington, Tetlowe, Oldeham, Crompton, and
Manchester.” This family continued to reside at Agecroft till the death of this Sir Robert Langley, without
issue, when his extensive estates underwent partition amongst his four daughters, one of whom, Anne, marrying
William Dauntesey, esq. of West Lavington, Wilts, conveyed Agecroft into the family. Sir Robert, by will
(19th September 1561), after gifts to his servants of sheep, etc., bequeaths all the residue of his goods and
chattels to Dame Cecily, his wife, whom he names with Edmund Trafford of Trafford, esq., executors. The
inventory shows that the effects were valued at £307: 7 : 8, in silver-plate £13: 6:8. The account of his
funeral expenses includes these items :-Black cloth, £40 : 3: 8 ; three Salt oxen and one cow, £10 ;
twelve fat sheep, £10: 8s. ; six calves, 30s. ; 15 pigs, 20s. ; pulleyn [poultry], 26s. ; twelve bushels of
malt, É8; 4% bushels of wheat, É3: 12s. ; 2 bushels of rye and barley, 26s. 8d. ; and 10 bushels of
oat malt, É6. Amongst the MSS. of Holland Watson, esq., is found a valuation of manors, lands, and
tenements, of Sir Robert Langley, from which it appears that he held of the queen, as duchess of Lancaster,
by knight-service and a rent of 13s. 4d., messuages, lands, and tenements, in the parishes of Manchester,
Prestwich, and Pendlebury, estimated at the annual value of £74: 4:2.”
The division of Sir Robert's estates amongst his co-heiresses appears from the following document, copied
by Holland Watson, esq., from a parchment roll at Chadderton —
CHIEF RENTS PAID TO QUEEN ELIZABETH.
“Hen. Earl of Darby £4 : 3 ; 8. James Holme 12d.—Tho. Valentine for 2 parts of Gawine Lands £1 : 8 : 3.—Adam Hill and
Edmond Goodin for a 3d part of Gawine Lands 14s. 2d. Tho. Dantsey for Windle Hay £1 : 6:0. The said Tho. Dantsey, Esq. for a
4th part of the lands late Sir Robt. Langley's, deceased, in Prestwich, Pendlebury & Tetlow 9s. 4d.—James Ashton, Esq. for another 4th
part 9s. 4d. The s”. James for the farm at Birtehawe 11d. Parson of Prestwich for another 4th part 9s. 4d. Rich". Holland for another
4th part 9s. 4d. The sd, Heaton 4 Heaton 6s. 8d. Thos. Leigh for Algherington 12d.—Robt. Worsley, Esq. for Bothes 2S,-Woodward
and Baron for Will. Bradshaw of Pendleton 2s. 6d.—Richd. Brereton for Worsley 11s. 4d. The said Rich". for Middle Hulton 6s. 8d.
Rich. Assheton of Middleton, Esq. ft 1: 3: 4. The sº. Richd. for Rädcliffe 8s. 6d.--Alexander Reddiche for Reddiche and Heaton 12s. 8d.
—Whitfyld farm in Oldham Parish 3s. 4d.—Edmund Trafford for Stretford 5s.-Richard Barton, Esq. for half of Flixton 10s.-Ed.
Prestwiche, Esq. for Holme near Manchester 5s. The sº. Ed. for Sholer 3s. 2d.—Farm of Urmston pro Hyde 8s.--—Rich. Radcliffe for New-
croft 12d. The sd, Richd. for the farm of Glodicth 3s. 2d.—William Gregory's heirs 12d.—Hugh Newton's 4d.—Robt. Johnson 8d.—
Lowe Crompton Farm 2s. 1d.—Clifton Farm 8d.—Ashton Farm 10d.—Edmund Chadderton for High Crompton 3s. 4d.—The Will of
Chaderton, 6s.--John Cumworthe for Oldham 6s.-James Holland one penny.”
From inquisitions post mortem, it appears that in 36 Eliz. (1594), Dorathea, who had married James
Assheton, had estates in Oldham, Crompton, and Prestwich." In 10 Jac. I. (1612), James Ashton possessed
the manor of Chadderton, Shuttleworth, Hopton, Huncote, Ouldham, Glodith, alias Glodick, the advowson
* Duchy Records, vol. vi. Inquis. post mortem, temp. Hen.
VIII. n. 7.
* Duchy Records, vol. ix. num. 16.
* Valuation of manors, tenements, lands, etc., of Robert Langley
(9th September, 3 Elizabeth, 1561).-Messuages, lands, and tene-
ments, with appurtenances, in Tetlowe, within the parishes of
Manchester, Prestwich, and Pendlebury, held of the queen as of
her Duchy of Lancaster, by knight-service and a rent of 13s. 4d.,
worth by the year £20. The capital messuage, called Agecroft,
with appurtenances, and lands and tenements in Pendlebury, called
Pendlebury DemeSnes, and known by the several names of Old
Agecroft, the Lower Coppice, the Otter Coppice, the Partelle, the
Great and Little Myefield, the Lower Butts, the Warthe, the
Crimbles, Aynsley, the Oxeye, the Little Oxeye, and all the water-
mill in Prestwich, and all those closes, lands, meadows, and pas-
tures, with appurtenances in Prestwich, called the Spring, and the
lands and tenements in Prestwich called the Springs, and lands
and tenements, with appurtenances, in Prestwich, and the pasture
or turbary in the parish of Eccles, called Swinton Moor, held of the
queen as of her Duchy of Lancaster, in socage, by a rent of 16s.
yearly, and worth £16. Messuages, lands, and tenements, etc., in
Alcrington and Prestwich, by the name of all that messuage in
Alcrington, in the parish of Prestwich, as well as all and singular
lands and tenements, etc., in Prestwich, in the place called Tonge
Moor, held of the queen as of her Duchy of Lancaster, by knight-
service and a rent of 206., and worth £16:13 : 6. Messuages,
lands, and tenements, etc., in Pendleton, and the manor and lands
and tenements, etc., in the will of Pendleton, commonly called
Windlehey and Prendlache, and also a messuage or burgage,
etc., in the manor worth yearly 65s. 4d. Messuages, lands, and
tenements, etc., in Oldham, Crompton, and Prestwich, parcel of the
demesne land by the several names of Over-Steanes, Lower-Steanes,
Shoe-brod, Le Rhodes, and a moiety of the lands and tenements
late in the tenure of William Langley, clerk, rector of the church
of Prestwich, as well as the moiety of the lands and tenements in
Prestwich aforesaid, and upon a certain place called Tonge Moor,
held of the queen as of her Duchy of Lancaster, by knight-service and
arent of Ild. yearly, worth . . . A certain parcel of land near the
capital messuage of Agecroft, in Pendlebury, worth yearly 4s. 8d.
Two closes of land in Prestwich, and demesne lands in Agecroft,
worth 36s. 8d. Lands and tenements, etc., in Prestwich, in the
tenure of Ekersall, worth yearly 13s. 10d. Two messuages, 20
acres of land, 6 acres of meadow, and 20 acres of pasture, etc., in
Prestwich, worth 5s. 10d. Total, É74 : 4:2.
* There appears to be an omission.
* Duchy Records, vol. xvi. n. 22.
448 (The ſºigturn of £ancašijire.
of the church of Prestwich, Tonge, Alkrington, and Crompton, including messuages, mills, lands, woods, and
other estates in Newton and Godley, in Cheshire."
The eldest daughter of Sir Robert Langley married to her second husband Alexander Reddish of Red.
dish, esq. The issue of this marriage consisted wholly of daughters; one of whom, Sarah, married Clement,
the fifth son of Sir Edward Coke, knight, the celebrated lawyer, and the manor continued in possession of the
Cokes of Norfolk till the time of the late Mr. Coke, who, wishing to increase his landed property in Norfolk,
sold his possessions in Lancashire, and, amongst his other estates, the manors of Prestwich and Pendlebury,
to Peter Drinkwater, esq., the father of Thomas Drinkwater, esq., of Irwell House.
The Heaton estates, acquired by the marriage with Margaret, daughter and co-heiress of Sir Robert
Langley, passed into the Egerton family, as by a subsequent match did part of those of the Ashtons of
|Middleton. Heaton House, a seat of the earl of Wilton, is a handsome modern structure of stone, erected by
Wyatt, with columns of the Ionic order, and a circular projection in the centre, surmounted by a spacious
dome. This handsome mansion is situated in a verdant and well-wooded park, five miles in circumference,
and having an area of 700 statute acres, at the entrance to which is an elegant Doric lodge. At some
distance from the house, on a bold eminence, stands a circular temple, commanding extensive views in the
four adjoining counties of Cheshire, Derbyshire, Staffordshire, and Yorkshire. -
The knightly family of Pilkington were seated at Pilkington Tower or Stand, in this parish, soon after
the Conquest.” In the Familia, Lancastriensis MS. Leonard Pilkington is stated to have been lord of Pil-
kington in 10 Henry I. (1110). The Pilkingtons were not, however, the chief lords of this manor; for it
appears that Roger de Pilkington, in the reign of John or Henry III., was found by the “Inquisitors of the
Wapentake of Salefordesir',” to hold the fourth part of a knight's fee of the fee of Thomas de Gretley, who
then held it under the earl Ferrers, the king's tenant in chief; and in 10 Edward I. (1282), Robert Grelle,
grandson of the above Thomas Gretley, baron of Manchester, seems to have been the superior lord, and
Roger de Pilkinton, in 19 Edward I. (1291) had a royal grant of free warren in Pilkington, Whitefield,
Hundesworth (Unsworth), Cheetham, Crompton, Sholgher (now Sholver), and Wolfstoneholme (in Spotland).”
In the following year, being summoned upon a writ of Quo Warranto before the king's justices at Lancaster,
to show his right to exercise this privilege in these townships, he appeared and produced the charter, dated
on the 10th of June 1291, granting to the said Roger and his heirs for ever free warren in all his demesne
lands in the said townships, so far, however, as these lands are not within the king's forest. On the exhibi-
tion of this document his right was allowed." In 1322 he held the fourth part of a knight's fee of the baron
of Manchester. By inquisitions post mortem, we find that in the reign of Edward III., Henry de Lacy, earl of
Lincoln, and Margaret de Longespee, his late countess, had a bovate of land in Pilkington, and the manor of
Chaderton, with 12 acres of land in fee (1329). In 35 Edward III. (1361) Pilkington is mentioned in the
inquisition taken on the death of Henry, duke of Lancaster, as a fee of the honor of Tutbury.” Sir Roger
Pilkington was knight of the shire, along with Sir Adam Houghton, in 39 Edward III. (1365). Of this
family was John Pilkington, esquire of the body to Edward IV., and by that monarch appointed chief forester
of Sowerby Chase, and keeper of Errington Park, for term of life. By the adherence of Sir Thomas Pil-
kington to Richard III., his estates were forfeited to the crown, and were conferred by Henry VII. upon
Lord Stanley, first earl of Derby. Dying without issue, his relative, Arthur Pilkington, settled at Bradley,
in Yorkshire. His first son, John, died without male issue, but Thomas, grandson of Robert, the second son
of Arthur, purchased Stanley, and was progenitor of the Pilkingtons, baronets of Chevet, in the county of
York.”
The Levers of Alkrington have been seated here since the middle of the seventeenth century, and in
this parish, and within Alkrington Hall, was collected by Sir Ashton Lever the celebrated museum. The
i Duchy Records, vol. XX. n. 10. - - Tunwilling to part with it, refused to sell. The estate is of consi-
* There is a tradition in the family—distinctly traceable, however, derable length, and is bounded by the river Irwell for more than a
no further back than to Fuller's Worthies of England, 1660—that
one of this family fought under Harold, at the battle of Hastings,
and that, being pursued, he put on the dress of a mower, and so
escaped; whence the family crest and allusive motto—“Now thus,
now thus.”—H.
3 Testa de Nevill, fo. 396.
4 Escaet. 10 Edward I. num. 20.
5 Rot. Chart. 19 Edward I. Pars Unic. mem. 41—Confirm. 1
Hen. W. (1413), p. 4, pat. m. 35.
6 Placit. de Quo Warr. apud Lanc. 20 Edward I. (1292) Rot. 1.
7 Escaet. 3 Edward III. (1329), num. 51.
8 Escaet. 35 Edward III. (1361), Pars Unic. num. 122.
9. In Watson’s MSS. the following traditionary story relating to
the estate called Rhodes (not the Rhodes near Middleton, but that
|between Prestwich and Ringley Outwood), in the manor of Pilking-
ton, is preserved —“Rhodes of Rhodes, having his estate, and it
being land of inheritance, and lying within the manor of Pilkington,
then belonging to Sir John (Sir Thomas) Pilkington, the knight, de-
sirous of purchasing the estate, applied to Rhodes; but he, being
mile, and at the extremity of the land stood a cowhouse, of which
Rhodes made use as a shelter for young cattle during winter, but at
other times it was disused. Into this building, it is said, Sir John
ordered some of his own cattle to be put, and locked them up there,
giving out that they were stolen, and a reward was offered accord-
ingly. Some time passed before the cattle were found ; at length,
as had been concerted, some of Sir John's people found them in the
above cowhouse, and proceedings in law were immediately com-
menced against Rhodes for this pretended robbery, against which
Rhodes defended himself; but the fact of the cattle being locked up
in his building being notorious, and the presumption of his being
privy, if not a principal in the concealment, was evidence so strong
against Rhodes, that he was obliged to come upon terms with Sir
John, which caused the loss of his inheritance. Sir John (Sir
Thomas) afterwards forfeited the manor of Pilkington ; this, in
those days, was called a just judgment, and believed to be inflicted
upon him for the above treachery. The manor was given to the
Derby family by the crown. The mansion-house was formerly
encompassed by a moat, part of which still remains.”
#umbret of Šalforn—ºrestinich-cum-Olhãam aparish. 449
Leverian Museum was contemporary with the Townley Museum; and while they existed entire in the places
where they had been collected, they gave to the county of Lancaster a superiority over every other county in
England, Middlesex alone excepted, in the rare productions of nature and art. Sir Ashton obtained an act
of parliament for disposing of this rare accumulation by lottery, which was drawn in 1785. Mr. Parkinson,
the holder of the successful ticket, made considerable additions to the collection, which he for some time
exhibited for public inspection in London, but it was afterwards sold by auction in the year 1806, and thus
dispersed." -
The parish of Prestwich is about fifteen miles in length, and about four miles in breadth, area 21,625
statute acres, and having a population in 1861 of 117,961. It is in the hundred of Salford, and in the
archdeaconry and rural deanery of Manchester. In this, as in Eccles parish, much of the land is in pasture.
The parish includes the townships of Prestwich (area, 1906 statute acres; population in 1861, 5288), Great
Heaton (866 acres; population, 159), Little Heaton (509 acres; population, 838), Tonge-with-Alkrington
(1155 acres; population, 5029), Oldham Chapelry, including four townships, (see page 455), and Pilkington
(5378 acres; population, 12,303), which includes the hamlets of Whitefield, Outwood, and Unsworth—the
hamlet of Whitefield being identical with the new parish of Stand. Manufactures, spreading from Manchester,
have made considerable progress here, though less than in that part of the parish which comes within the
division of Oldham ; a large proportion of the people are employed in the staple trade of the county, chiefly
in the weaving of cotton and till lately of silk.
Though, as we have said, it does not appear from the Domesday Survey that any church existed in this
place at the time of the Conquest, yet within two centuries of that period Prestwyke had a parish church, the
living of which was valued by the ecclesiastical commissioners of Pope Nicholas in 1288 at £18: 13:4. In
the papal return made at that time Oldham is not mentioned, and this circumstance seems decisive of the
proper designation of the parish, awarding the precedency to Prestwich, and showing that when in connection
the name should be written Prestwich-cum-Oldham. The rector of Prestwich exercises ecclesiastical juris-
diction in that chapelry. The historian of Manchester speaks of a church at Prestwich in Saxon times, but
it is difficult to discover upon what authority that assertion is grounded ; for, certainly, the fact of Prestwich
being traversed by a Roman road is very inconclusive evidence of the existence of a Saxon church. It must
be admitted, however, that the name Preost-wic, the priest's village or retreat, gives some countenance to this
conjecture. The present church of Prestwich is a venerable Gothic structure, built of the friable new red
sandstone, and of course in places much decayed. It stands on an eminence overlooking the well-wooded
valley of the Irwell, and is surrounded by fine old beech-trees. It consists of a nave, chancel, two side-aisles
terminating in chapels (the Wilton and the Lever chapels), a tower (with a peal of six bells), and south porch.
It is dedicated to St. Mary, and is in the patronage of the earl of Wilton. The registers begin in 1603. The
edifice was restored in 1860. ^.
The living, which is a rectory, valued in the Liber Regis at £46 : 4: 9%, cannot be of less value than
f1000 a-year, derived principally from a moderate composition of the tithes.
|RECTORY OF PRESTWICH.
Estimated value in Tax. Eccl. Pope Nicholas, £18 : 13:4; estimated value in the Liber Regis, £46 : 4: 9%. In 1650 it was
declared to be £120; in 1712 it was returned at £400 per annum. In 1792 it was estimated at £700, when the rector added greatly
to its value by obtaining an act of parliament enabling the rectors to lease glebe-lands for building purposes on 99 years' leases. In
1834 it was returned at £1230 per annum. The endowment of the rectory consists of 116 acres of glebe and a moderate composition
in lieu of tithes, and a moiety (with the rectory of Bury) of the tithe commissioners' rent-charge of the townships of Tottington
Higher and Lower End, Musbury, Coupe, Lenches, Newhall Hey, and Hall Carr, in the parish of Bury. The tithes of these town-
ships were conferred on the rectory of Prestwich by John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster, who died in 1399.
RALPH LANGLEY is the first rector of whom anything is known. He was one of the family of that name residing at Edgecroft
or Agecroft, in the parish of Eccles, who were patrons of this living for many years, and are said to have erected the present church.
He was the second son of Sir Robert de Langley of Agecroft, and in the 5th year of Edward IV. 1465, in the time of Richard West,
Lord de la Warre, was admitted warden of the college of Manchester, then lately established. He was rector of Prestwich-cum-
Oldham by the patronage of his father as early as 1428. He died after the 6th Henry VII. (1490). THOMAS LANGLEY was the
next rector, holding the benefice in the years 1507-1515, in which latter year he took part in providing a master for the Manchester
Grammar School. Sir WILLIAM LANGLEY was rector in the years 1535-1561. The “Sir” was the usual term of courtesy formerly
applied to priests. Sir William died probably in 1569. Sir WILLIAM LANGLEY was nominated rector on the 8th July 1569, on the
presentation of James Assheton of Chaderton, the heir of Sir Robert Langley. He resigned in 1611, and was buried at Prestwich.
JOHN LANGLEY, M.A., was nominated May 10, 1611. During an insurrection in 1608 he was required by the bishop of Chester to
provide “a light horse furnished” for the force then collected. He was still rector when he died in 1632, and was buried at
Prestwich. ISAAG ALLEN was the immediate successor to the rectory in 1632, his wife being a relative of Edmund Assheton, esq. of
Chaderton, the then patron. For some time he held his church, with the concurrence of a large majority of his parishioners, against
the attempts of the “Presbyterical Classis of Manchester” to oust him ; but at length, in 1644, he was forcibly ejected, seized,
and removed to Manchester, where he was for some time imprisoned. The vacated living was filled by several incumbents in
rapid succession ; amongst them are named Mr. Langley, Mr. Porter, and Mr. Brierly. At length, TOBY FURNESS was
appointed rector in 1646. In February 1648 some charges against his practices as to baptism and the Lord's Supper, and as to
intoxication, were investigated before the Manchester Classis during four days, and he was fully acquitted. However, his
situation as to a number of his congregation becoming irksome, and having a “call” to Bury, he was allowed “dismission
1. Such was the variety and extent of this celebrated collection, curiosities were divided into 7879 lots, and the sale occupied sixty-
that the catalogue filled an octavo volume of 400 pages; the five days.
- 3 M
450 Ciſc fligforu of 3Lancashire.
from Prestwich’’ in the following September. A strenuous effort on the part of the majority of the parishioners to obtain the
recall of Mr. Allen was defeated by the Classical Assembly. JoHN LAKE, D.D., was appointed rector in 1650, but he became
incumbent of the parochial chapel at Oldham in 1651, and removed thither whenever another period of vacancy occurred in the
rectory. After various negotiations between the Presbyterian Assembly and the parishioners, NATHANIEL RATHBAND was nominated
in 1652, and appears to have resigned the church about 1656 or 1657. ISAAG ALLEN was recalled from his banishment about 1658,
and reinstated in the living, which he held till his death in February 1659. EDWARD KENYON, B.D., seems to have been instituted
to the rectory by Edward Assheton, esq., in 1659. His mother was a daughter of Richard Assheton of Chadderton, the patron.
He died July 15, 1668, and was buried in Prestwich church. JoHN LAKE, D.D., was instituted to the rectory in 1668 by Edmund
Assheton, esq., patron. In 1682 he was consecrated bishop of Man, and in August 1684 was translated to the see of Bristol, and
then resigned the rectory of Prestwich. WILLIAM ASSHETON, B.D., was presented to the rectory by his father James Assheton,
esq. of Chadderton, and held it till his death in February 1731, aged 82. RICHARD GooDWIN, D.D., was presented to the living
on Mr. Assheton's death by the Hon. Thomas Wentworth. He died in 1752. JoHN GRIFFITH, D.D., purchased the advowson of
Prestwich in 1744, and was inducted in November 1752, and held the rectory till his death in 1763. LEVETT HARRIs, M.A.
(having been curate of Prestwich 1756-58), purchased the advowson in 1758, and was instituted in December 1763. He died in
December 1782. JAMES LYON, M.A., the late venerable and respected rector, was the son of Matthew Lyon, esq. of Warrington,
and was born there October 26, 1757; was educated at the free-school in that town, and afterwards at Brazennose College, Oxford.
On taking orders in 1781, Mr. Lyon came to Prestwich as curate, and was instituted to the rectory by his father on the 22d March
1783. Having completed the fiftieth year of his incumbency on the 22d March 1833, his parishioners, to mark their grateful sense
of his long and faithful services as rector of this extensive and populous parish, celebrated the event by a series of festivities, and
also presented him with two elegant pieces of plate. A number of his former and present curates also presented him with a massive
embossed silver inkstand; and a subscription, amounting to near £250, was opened to commemorate the same event by a marble
tablet, which was placed in the church in 1835. It is surmounted by a bust of the deceased, a most excellent likeness; underneath
the worthy pastor is represented administering the Sacrament to a number of communicants. The inscription is in these terms —
“On the 22d day of March 1833, the Rev. James Lyon, M.A., of Brazennose College, Oxford, completed the 50th year of his resident
incumbency as rector of this parish. In commemoration of which event, and in testimony of the affectionate regard and attachment of
his parishioners, this tablet, erected by public subscription, is placed here to record their estimation of a character distinguished alike for
simplicity of manners and integrity of principle, by the peaceable and conscientious discharge of his duties as a Christian pastor.”
The sculpture is of able delineation. The artist was Lievier. Mr. Lyon died August 13, 1836, aged 79, and was buried in the chancel.
THOMAS BLACKBURNE, M.A. (many years vicar of Eccles), was, in September 1836, presented to the rectory of Prestwich by the
earl of Wilton. He died August 5, 1847. JoHN RUSHTON, D.D., succeeded to the rectory in 1847. He was made archdeacon of
Manchester in 1843, and in 1849 was created honorary canon of Manchester. H. M. BIRCH, B.D., the present rector, was instituted
in 1852 on the presentation of the earl of Wilton. Mr. Birch was for some years tutor to H.R.H. the Prince of Wales.
The advowson of the rectory of Prestwich-cum-Oldham belonged, no doubt, originally to the family of
the Prestwiches, who took their name from this place. It continued in their possession till the time of the
father of Ralph Langley, rector of Prestwich, who, marrying the heiress of that family, became possessed of
this patronage, and presented it to his son about 5 Edward IV. It remained in the family of the Langleys
of Agecroft till the time of Queen Elizabeth, when Sir Robert Langley, the last of his name, dying without
male issue, his property was divided among his four daughters, the third of whom, marrying one of the family
of the Ashtons of Chadderton in this parish, had for her share, among other property, the advowson of
Prestwich. From this time it continued in the possession of the Ashtons of Chadderton till the year 1710,
when the Rev. William Ashton, rector of Prestwich, sold it to the Hon. Thomas Wentworth, of Wentworth
Woodhouse, in the county of York. On the 24th May 1744, Thomas, earl of Malton, the only son and heir
of the above Hon. Thomas Wentworth, sold the advowson to the Rev. Dr. John Griffith, rector of Eckington,
in the county of Derby, who became rector here in 1752. In September 1755 it again changed hands, and
was sold by Dr. Griffith to James Collins, of Knaresborough, in the county of York, gentleman, who again
in 1758 transferred it by sale to the Rev. Levett Harris, of Barwick-in-Elmett, in the same county, clerk,
who became rector here in 1763. Mr. Harris being in difficulties, and the living deeply mortgaged, the
advowson was again sold by him, in June 1781, to Matthew Lyon, esq., of Warrington, who left it by will
to his son, the late rector. In the 32d George III. 1792, an act of parliament was obtained to enable the
rector of Prestwich for the time being to grant leases of the glebe-land belonging to the rectory. Finally, in
March 1815, the advowson of Prestwich was again sold by the Rev. James Lyon to the Right Hon. Robert
Earl Grosvenor (now marquis of Westminster), for his son, the earl of Wilton, in whom this patronage is now
vested."
The Order in which the various churches and episcopal chapels in this extensive parish have been erected
may be thus stated. The names of the present incumbents are added, with the dates of their institution or
appointment:-0ldham, parochial chapelry of St. Mary, existing in 1448, rebuilt 1830; incumbent, Rev. W.
Walters (1864). Shaw (in Crompton), Holy Trinity, existing 1515, rebuilt 1739; Rev. S. Bartleet (1866).
Ringley, St. Saviour, built 1626; Rev. J. R. Lyon (1817). Unsworth, St. George, erected 1730, rebuilt 1843;
Rev. B. Crompton (1844). Royton, St. Paul's, built 1754, restored 1856; Rev. R. Hill (1845). Oldham,
St. Peter's, built 1768; Rev. E. Owen (1861). Hollinwood (St. Margaret's), built 1769; Rev. J. Robertson,
(1861). Stand, All Saints, built 1826, made a parish and rectory in 1847; Rev. T. Corser (1826). Oldham,
St. James's, built 1829; Rev. R. S. Gooday (1864). Tonge, St. Michael's, built 1839; Rev. W. S. Davis
(1860). Glodwick, Christ Church, built 1844; Rev. J. Bumpstead (1851). Chadderton, St. John's, 1845;
Rev. J. Gornall (1864). Waterhead, Holy Trinity, 1847; Rev. F. B. Broadbent (1854). East Crompton,
St. James's 1847; Rev. J. Littler (1845). Coldhurst, Holy Trinity, 1848; Rev. J. Godson (1845). Chadderton
* See Rev. John Broker's Memorials of the Church in Prestwich (4to, 1852), to which we are indebted for various particulars relating
to the Church and Parish.-H.
39ttmüren of salton–prestinić tumoniam #arisiſ. 45]
(a wooden licensed building), 1848. Prestwich, St. Margaret's (opened by license) 1851. Chadderton, St.
Matthew, 1857; Rev. J. R. Dunne (1844). The patronage of eight or nine of these is vested in the rector
of Prestwich—viz, the parochial chapel of Oldham, the perpetual curacies of Shaw, Unsworth, Royton, St.
Peter's Oldham, Hollinwood, St. James's Oldham, and Tonge ; he presents also, conjointly with the rectors
of Bury and Middleton, to the perpetual curacy of Ringley. The earl of Wilton is the patron of Prestwich
and Stand; the crown and the bishop alternately are patrons of Chadderton, Glodwick, Waterhead, East
Crompton, and Coldhurst. In 1719 the population of the parish was 6630, for whom there were four
churches (with five clergymen), capable of containing 1622 persons, or about one in every four of the popula-
tion. In 1789 the population was 23,965, eight churches (ten clergymen), holding 3949 persons, or about
one in every six. In 1792, population 27,125, eight churches, holding 4018, or about one in every seven.
In 1801, population 31,065, eight churches, for about one in every eight. In 1811, population 41,342, eight
churches, accommodating 4243 persons, or about one in every ten. In 1821, population 52,510, eight
churches (with eleven clergy), only accommodating about one in every twelve. In 1831, population 67,579,
ten churches (fourteen clergy), seating 9031 persons, or about one in every seven or eight. In 1841, popula-
tion 78,545, eleven churches (seventeen clergy), 9537 persons, or about one in every eight. In 1857, popula-
tion 94,466, eighteen churches (thirty clergy), 14,967 persons (6609 free seats), or about one in every six.
The rectory-house at Prestwich, called “The Deyne,” from the Saxon den, was situated on the edge of
a deep woody dell or valley, from whence it derives its name, about a quarter of a mile from the church; and
that this spot has been the seat of the rectory for about four hundred years, is proved
by an ancient deed of the time of Ralph Langley, rector, in 1485, dated “from the
Dene,” and now in possession of the present rector. It was a large ancient half-timbered
house, with a spacious entrance-hall. On a beam in the upper room were the arms of
Edward Kenyon, rector here in 1659—(Sable, a chevron engrailed, Or, between three
crosses flory, Argent)—who may probably have made some repairs at that time; but
the building itself was evidently of much earlier date. The house was well sheltered by
a number of fine beech-trees, and near it is a large sheet of water, which greatly
ornaments the place. The old house was taken down in 1840 by the Rev. Thomas Blackburne, and a large
and commodious house, in the Tudor style, built nearly upon its site. - -
At Unsworth, in the same parish, there is a small chapel dedicated to St. George, erected on land given
by the earl of Derby, and consecrated by Dr. Peploe, bishop of Chester, November 9, 1730. -
The Old Hall of the Pilkingtons, at Stand, forming the Stand in the park, from whence the place
derives its name, and which, according to tradition, was originally a storey higher than at present, with a flat
roof, for the purpose of viewing the hunting below, is still standing; and near it is a large ancient barn,
erected from the remains of a neighbouring chapel, which contains some curiously-carved oak principals, still
in good preservation. The roof of the barn, which is also of ancient carved oak, exactly resembles the roof
of the south aisle of Prestwich church.
In the chapel of Ringley, in the parish of Prestwich, which was rebuilt in 1827, in the east window are
several large coats of arms in painted glass, preserved from the old chapel, one of them of the Stanleys, earls
of Derby ; and in a window on the south side is another piece of ancient stained glass, with a part of the
inscription round it ; also a portrait of the founder of the chapel over the arch of the altar-recess.
In consequence of the great increase of population in the township of Pilkington, a grant was made,
under the direction of the commissioners appointed by parliament, for a new church, the site for which was
fixed at Stand, on land given by the earl of Derby. The first stone of the erection was laid by the earl of
Wilton on the 3d of August 1822, and the building was consecrated and dedicated to All Saints by Dr.
Blomfield, then bishop of Chester, September 8, 1826. The style of architecture is Gothic of the fourteenth
century. The church contains a nave and side aisles, with spacious galleries round three of its sides; and at
the west end of the nave is an open arcade, with noble arched entrances, from which a lofty tower, enriched
with turrets and pinnacles, rises to the height of 186 feet from the ground, forming a beautiful and
conspicuous feature in the views of the surrounding country for many miles distant. The entire accommo-
dation of the interior consists of 1836 sittings, 978 of which are free or open seats for the use of the poor.
The entire cost of the building amounted to £14,987 : 4s. The present incumbent is the Rev. Thomas
Corser (1826), vicar of Norton in Northamptonshire. There is a meat parsonage-house near to the church,
erected on land given by the earl of Derby, at the sole expense of James Ramsbotham, esq. of Stand, who
has liberally annexed it to the church for ever. The present value of the living is £300 a-year.
The charities in this parish, as exhibited in the sixteenth report of the commissioners appointed by parliament for inquiring
concerning the charities, are—Sir Thomas Grey Egerton's charity of £10 a-year to the poor of the parish ; Elizabeth Bent's charity,
lost from neglect ; Sir Holland Egerton's charity, the interest of £20 expended annually in bread to the poor; the earl of Wilton's
charity,"the interest of £1000, distributed in clothing to the poor; Bagguley's charity, of the amount of seven guineas per annum,
distributed to the poor, principally in clothing; Stand School charity, being a bequest of Henry Siddal, of Whitefield, tailor, of a
messuage, with four acres and a half of land, in Whitefield, in the township of Pilkington, towards the endowment of a grammar-
school; Ringley School, endowed by Nathan Walworth, with a messuage and 120 acres of land; James Lancashire's bequest of the

452 Gje #istory of 3Lantaghire.
sum of £50 to Unsworth School; with a few other minor charities. The earliest school in Prestwich was one in Rooden Lane,
existing more than eighty years ago. In one room children of both sexes and all ages received instruction, while in an upper room
girls were taught needlework; the master lived on the premises, and there was an enclosed playground. ... To this school Sir Thomas
Egerton gave £5 yearly, on condition that eight poor children were taught gratis. About 1811 this building was pulled down, and
the school removed to the site now known as Lady Wilton's School, on which was then erected the present building for the village
school and its teacher. In 1816 a meeting of the inhabitants led to a subscription, which, aided by a grant of £100 from the
National Society, amounted to nearly £1000, and the present School premises were erected that year on a portion of the glebe,
chargeable with £5 yearly rent to the rector. The scholars were transferred thither in May 1817. It had but one room, capable
of containing 250 children, under a master; a mistress teaching the girls Sewing on Saturdays. In 1817 a partition-wall separated
boys from girls, the latter having then a regular mistress. The countess of Wilton's school for girls was maintained, and the girls
clothed, at her ladyship's sole expense. Since her death, memorial schools have been built by subscription bearing her name. In
1840 an infants' school was established by public subscription, but has since been maintained by the earl. It is in a substantially
built room, capable of holding 200 children. At a school established on Kersal Moor by the late Colonel Clowes, 50 children of
Raineshow (not in Prestwich parish) are admitted with others to daily instruction. In 1851 there were in the township of Prest-
wich twelve schools, five large and public and seven private and in cottages. In that year there were 616 children and adults at
day and evening schools, 281 of whom received gratuitous instruction. A Sunday school existed in Prestwich towards the close of
the last century, which, after several removals, was finally settled in its present locality in 1822. It was supported by voluntary
subscription, with paid teachers, and in 1851 upwards of 500 children were instructed therein.
The earliest provision for the aged poor in Prestwich was by paying out of the poor-rates for their board and lodging in the
houses of cottagers. In 1716 a plot of land and some cottages at Raineshow were bought for a poor-house; and these cottages were
thus used till 1819, when a new workhouse to accommodate 120 persons was built on this site. The Prestwich Poor-Law Union
includes twelve townships—viz. Blackley, Bradford, Beswick, Cheetham, Crumpsall, Failsworth, Harpurhey, Great and Little
Heaton, Moston, Newton, and Prestwich ; twenty guardians. The Board meets at the Union Offices, York Street, Cheetham,
about a mile from Manchester—a commodious detached building—every other Thursday. The workhouse is at Rainscough,
Prestwich. The Union has an area of 11,148 statute acres, and a population in 1861 of 58,578. In 1773 Elizabeth Bent left the
interest of £50 to the poor of the townships of Manchester, Cheetham, and Prestwich ; but the charity has been lost through
neglect. In 1847 a sum of £212 (the residue of benefactions and donations) was invested in North-Western Railway consolidation
stock, bearing interest at 10 per cent per annum ; the interest to be applied for the use of the poor of the parish of Prestwich for
ever. In 1848 Mr. Lewis Novelli, a resident, left by will to trustees £1000 to be invested, and the interest to be distributed twice
a-year by the rector and churchwardens in money, food, or clothing amongst poor, aged, or sickly inhabitants, attendants of some
Protestant church, and not in receipt of parochial relief. In 1851 the gross annual value of the real property in Prestwich was
£15,129 ; in 1866, £22,557. In 1851 there were in the township 6 public-houses and 13 beer-houses.
GREAT HEATON.—This township (formerly called Heaton Reddich) has an area of 866 statute acres; the whole of the land in
the township, with the exception of one cottage and its small garden-plot, belongs to the earl of Wilton. In this township is
Heaton House (already noticed); the house and gardens occupy an area of more than 90 acres. About half the land of the township
is enclosed within the park wall. In 1851 the township had in it neither church, chapel, School, public-house, beer-house, nor
provision-shop. In this township there has been a gradual decrease of the population, Owing to the throwing of Small farms into one,
and to the declension of handloom-weaving. A legacy was left by John Wolstenholme to the poor of this township of £10, the
interest of which is yearly given in linen cloth to poor persons not receiving weekly or constant parish relief. The “Heaton
Charity” consists of the interest of £20, to be expended in bread, left by Sir Holland Egerton in 1730; the interest of £200 left by
Sir Thomas Grey Egerton in 1756; and the interest of £1000 left by the late earl of Wilton in 1814. This charity is yearly
dispensed at Heaton House at Christmas time.
LITTLE HEATON.—This township, formerly known as Heaton Fallowfield (pronounced Fawfield), has an area of about 509
statute acres. In this township stood the Old Hall of the Heaton branch of the Hollands, a half-timbered house long since
removed. About half the land in this township belongs to the earl of Wilton, whose maternal grandfather, the first earl,
increased the original estate by about 100 acres. The remaining land is held amongst eleven proprietors. In 1848 and for twelve
years previously, there was no school in Great or Little Heaton, though the population was in that year nearly 1000. In May 1848
a school was begun in a cottage-room ; and in 1850 a commodious school-house, capable of containing 130 children, was erected at
the sole cost of the late countess of Wilton, and the school transferred thither in the June of that year. An evening-school for
adults was also opened, and a Sunday-school in connection with St. Margaret's Church is well attended. At Bow-Lee, on the
borders of the parishes of Prestwich and Middleton, are several groups of cottages, erected in the early part of the present century,
which stand on neutral ground, no decision having been come to as to the parish or township to which they belong. The tenants
are free, on the one hand, from all liability to contribute to local rates, but, on the other, they cannot claim relief from either parish.
. From an account of the state of the parish delivered by the rector to the bishop of Chester at his visitation in 1778, we learn
that the parish then contained 13 hamlets, about 3500 houses, and that its chief resident families were those of James Starky, esq.
of Polefield; Sir Thomas Egerton, bart. of Heaton ; Sir Watts Horton, bart. of Chadderton ; Ashton Lever, esq. of Alkrington ;
Robert Radcliffe, esq. of Foxdenton; and Joseph Pickford, esq. of Royton. There were then about 200 families of Presbyterians
in the parish, 150 Methodists, 3 or 4 of quakers, a dissenting meeting-house at Stand (now Unitarian), and a Methodist chapel in
Oldham. There were then 7 Episcopal chapels in the parish. The parsonage-house, “The Deyne,” was then in good repair. There
was a grammar-school at Oldham endowed by James Assheton of Chadderton, and a benefaction by Samuel Scholes of Lower House
Edge, Oldham, of £16 a-year, to teach the poor of Oldham the English language. There was a dissenting grammar-school at Stand
endowed by Mr. Siddall of Whitefield, with two old cottages and about two acres of land, worth then about £7 yearly. This charity
was left only to encourage a grammar-schoolmaster to reside, consequently no scholars were taught free. In 1778 Mr. John Pope,
minister of the gospel, was the master. Mr. James Lancashire of Langley, about 1740, left £50, on condition the inhabitants of
Unsworth would subscribe at least £50 to it, which they did ; and the interest of these sums amounts yearly to about £5 : 5s., for
which sum ten poor children of Unsworth were instructed in the English language. There was also a free school at Ringley,
endowed by Nathan Walworth, gentleman, with £400, laid out in lands let in 1778 at the clear yearly rent of £20, for which sum
Mr. Webster, the then master, taught 60 poor boys and girls gratis.
The parish registers of Prestwich commence with the year 1603, and are complete to the present time, with the exception of
the registers of marriage, in which there is a gap from October 1658 to January 1661 (during the Commonwealth). They extend
over about fifty volumes, and the number of names of persons christened, married, and buried, is probably little short of 120,000.
An index, in six volumes, alphabetically and chronologically arranged, was compiled about 1850, to afford greater facilities for
consulting the registers. In this index the marriages are arranged in double entry, for easier reference. The names in this index
number more than 160,000. - -
Amongst the most important local families must be first named the Hollands of Heaton, ancestors of the earl of Wilton, a
family which long occupied the old hall in Little Heaton ; another branch residing at Rhodes, and a third at Clifton. The family
claim descent from Sir Stephen, son of Sir Stephen, son of Sir Otho Holland, lord of Skevington, Co. Lincoln, temp. Edward the
Confessor; the places called Holland, both in Lincolnshire and Lancashire, being ancient possessions of this family. In the reign
of John the line divided, and in the elder branch a succession of knights continued till the reign of Henry VII. The Sir Robert
Holland who was secretary to the earl of Lancaster, for his treachery to whom the people slew him in October 1328, was of the
#umbret of $alfort—43rºtºtrº-tum-9ſuffam. 33arisiſ. 453
second line, and his fifth son, Sir William Holland, was the progenitor of the Hollands of Denton, from whom branched the
Hollands of Clifton, and those of Sutton near Prescot, and those of Rhodes. The Hollands of Heaton are supposed to derive descent
from Alan, a sixth son of the above Sir Robert, but it is probable that they are of the Denton branch. The most distinguished
member of this branch of the family was Colonel Richard Holland, the Parliamentary governor of Manchester in the civil war, in
which, in the siege of Manchester, the storm of Preston, and the siege of Latham House, he took a prominent part. The Heaton
estates remained in the family of Holland till 1684, when by failure of male issue the property passed to the Egertons, on the
marriage of Sir John Egerton (third baronet) with Elizabeth, sister and sole heiress of Edward Holland, esq. of Heaton and Denton.
We have already noticed the Prestwiches of Prestwich, and the Langleys of Agecroft. The Levers of Alkrington claim descent
from Levingus de Leaver (near Bolton), living about the time of the Norman Conquest. In 1673 there were three branches, located
respectively at Great Lever, Alkrington, and Kersal. The Alkrington estates, in the parish of Prestwich, came into the possession
of the Lever family about 1630, by purchase from the Legh family, and from that time Alkrington formed their residence till the
extinction of the Lever family about 1840. The Tonges of Tonge, in this parish, derive their descent from Thomas de Tonge,
son of Alice de Wolveley, herself the heiress of the family of Prestwich. Their residence was Tonge Hall, a very perfect specimen of
the post and petrel style of building, apparently of the time of Henry VIII. Here they resided till 1726, when the estate was sold,
pursuant to the will of Jonathan Tonge, gentleman, dated September 7, 1725, to Mr. John Starky of Heywood, for £4350, and was
devised by the will of his grandson, James Starky, esq. (who died in 1846), with other estates, to his relatives Mrs. Hornby of St.
Michael's, and Joseph Layton, esq., of Liverpool. The family of Fox of Rhodes resided there, and doubtless possessed the estate,
as early as the reign of Edward I. A descendant, John Fox, was comptroller of the household and one of the council of Henry earl
of Derby in the reign of Elizabeth. Another, Captain Richard Fox, aided in the gallant defence of Lathom House. The family seems
to have become extinct about 1746. The Wilsons of Poppythorn appear to have held the estate (a portion of the glebe-lands of Prest-
wich), temp. Jac. I. The house still exists, but with modern additions and restorations; an old beam in it gives the date 1553. It
has been converted into a farm-house and three cottages. The family became extinct about 1765. Amongst other families long
resident in the parish may be mentioned the Serjeants of Stand ; the Kenyons of Kersal, who possessed the estate subsequently the
property of the Byroms, and now the residence and property of Miss Atherton; the Gaskells of Clifton Hall; the Daunteseys of
Agecroft; the Hopwoods of Rhodes Green, extinct about the beginning of the present century; the Hulmes of Hulme Hall, in
Reddish and Kersley; the Cromptons of Old Hall in Pilkington ; the Mullineux family, of Mullineux, in Pilkington Park; the
Stanleys of Broughton; the Reddishes, etc.
BOROUGH AND CHAPELRY OF OLDHAM.
Oldham is a municipal and parliamentary borough, and ecclesiastically, a parochial chapelry, in the
Middleton division of the hundred of Salford, and in the parish of Prestwich, comprising the townships of
Chadderton, Crompton, Oldham, and Royton ; though a part of the parish of Prestwich is separated by parts
of the parishes of Manchester and Middleton.

Townships. Area in Acres. | Population in 1861. Townships. Area in Acres. | Population in 1861.
Chadderton . g 2978 7486 Oldham . tº § 46.17 72,333
Crompton . g 2864 7032 Royton . & • 1352 7,493
The entire chapelry has an area of 11,811 statute acres, and, in 1861, had a population of 94,344.
With some degree of subordination, there is much of independence in this chapelry. The townships of
Oldham, Chadderton, Crompton, and Royton, support Oldham church by a rate, of which Oldham pays half
and the other three townships the remainder, without now contributing in any way towards the church of
Prestwich ; and the inhabitants of these townships have the right of sepulture and baptism at Oldham church
only. The register books of Oldham and Prestwich are quite distinct and unconnected, and each place has
its separate churchwardens. Anciently they were more dependent, for it appears by a decree of the date of
1406, in the possession of the late Rev. James Lyon, rector of the parish of Prestwich, issued by William de
Nieuhagh, archdeacon of Chester, that the inhabitants of “Oldom,” dependent on the parish church of Prestwich,
were required to contribute towards the sacramental bread and wine consumed by the communicants in the
mother church; and by another decree from the archdeacon of Chester to the chaplain of the parish church
of Prestwich, and the chaplain celebrating divine service in the chapel of Oldom, “notoriously” dependent on
the same church, it further appears that disputes had arisen, at this early period, between the parishioners of
Prestwich and the inhabitants of Oldom, Chadderton, Ryton, and Crompton, on the question whether the
latter should contribute to the bread and wine, decorations, and necessaries of Prestwich church, and that
these contributions were ordered to be made.
Six years after this time, Sir Rauf Longley, parson of the kyrke of Prestwich, lets by indenture" the
tithes of Oldham to Sir Henry Penfiulbury, prieste of Middelton, for four score and nine marks (£59: 6:8),
for the term of three years. The ancient church or chapel of Oldham having probably become dilapidated,
the rector of Prestwich, who was also the third warden of the Collegiate Church of Manchester, determined
upon rebuilding the same ; and by an indenture of the date of the 4th November 1476, he entered into
contracts with the masons to build a new church at Oldham, of simple construction, paying them for the same
the sum of £28 : 6:8, the materials to be supplied by the rector.” The erection of the new church does not
1 Lodged in the parish church of Prestwich. - cross-arch at each end, the one for the pillars and the other for a
* The indenture of the rector with three master-masons requires steeple, with two buttresses at the west end. An aisle on each
them to make the body of the church of hewn stone, four arches side, 10 feet wide, for the pillars; the outer wall 12 feet high. In
on each side, every arch 12 feet between the pillars and 18 feet the south side three side and two end windows, with three but-
high, the width between the north and south pillars 20 feet, and a tresses, a door, and a porch; in the north aisle two side and two
#
454 (The #istory of 3Lancagüirº.
appear to have adjusted the disputes between the rector and the parishioners of Prestwich and the inhabit-
ants within the precinct or circuit of the church or chapel of Oldham ; for in 1558 we find a decree issued by
Cuthbert, bishop of Chester, wherein, after reciting that he has examined the decrees and muniments that
William, formerly bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, and other officials of the archdeaconry of Chester in times
past, sealed with their seals and confirmed by their authority, he commands, under pain of interdiction and
suppression, both the parishioners of Prestwich and the inhabitants of the chapelry of Oldham, to furnish
bread on holidays to be distributed to divers parishioners, and bread, wine, and lights about the altar of the
parochial church of Prestwich, and other necessaries to the said parochial church appertaining to the church
and the chapel. In 1558 the parish registers of Oldham commence, and record that in that year there were
in this chapelry 21 baptisms and 14 burials. -
The church at Oldham, dedicated to St. Mary, is placed on an eminence near the centre of the town,
overlooking the surrounding country. Its early history is involved in obscurity. An antiquity as high as
Saxon times is claimed for the first erection, but it is difficult to say on what authority this claim is grounded,
nor is it quite clear that this church was re-edified with stone in the time of King Stephen, though the old
font appears to have been of that age. That a church or chapel did exist here previous to 1476 is shown
by the decree from the archdeaconry of Chester, then in the diocese of Coventry and Lichfield, of the date
of 1448, addressed to “the chaplain celebrating divine service in the chapel of Oldom ;” and by a contem-
porary indenture made between Rauf Longley, parson of the church of Prestwich, on the one part, and Sir
Henry Penulbury, priest of the Chantry of Middleton, of the other part, by which the former let all the
tithes, oblations, and emoluments (except the glebe-land and the free-rents) belonging to the chapel of Old-
ham, to the latter, for the term of three years, for the annual rent of forty-three marks” (£28: 13:4).
In this and the neighbouring counties, marriages were proclaimed by a magistrate in the market-place,
during the time of the Commonwealth ; and J. Hopwood, esq., performed the ceremony at Oldham, as
appears from the parish registers. The gallery of the old church was erected in 1703 by Mr. Brierley, and
the eastern window bore a blazon of the arms of Radcliffe of Fox-Denton. The so-called “Cudworth chapel.”
occupied the north of the interior, and contained a monument adorned with the arms of that family impaling
Mosley, and bearing a Latin inscription complimentary to the memory of John Cudworth of Wernith Hall,
esq., who died in 1652. This monument was defaced in 1827. On the south side of the church was
another chapel belonging to Chadderton Hall, and formerly the burial-place of the Asshetons, but latterly
called the “Horton chapel.” It contained marble tablets to the memory of Joshua Horton and his family,
but these were removed when the old church was taken down, and have not been replaced.” The great
increase of population and wealth in the chapelry of Oldham demanded for the people a new church, which
was erected upon the site of the ancient edifice; and the parishioners in vestry assembled resolved, in the
year 1824, to apply to parliament for powers to take down and rebuild the church, under the direction of
twenty-four trustees, six being nominated by each township of the parish, out of a rate to be levied upon the
parishioners, to which fund the owners of property were required to pay two-thirds and the tenants one-
third. In 1827 the foundation-stone was laid by the then earl of Wilton. The first act of parliament
extended only to the re-erection of the body of the church; but that the edifice might be rendered complete,
another act was obtained by the parishioners, in 1828, to rebuild also the chancel and the vestry. In
removing the materials of the old church a stone coffin was found, which contained the body of a Radcliffe,
one of the early possessors of Fox-Denton. In October 1830 the work was completed, and the stately new
fabric was opened on Sunday the 12th of December 1830. The tower was now furnished with twelve bells,
and with an illuminated clock. A beautiful painted window, representing the assembly of the apostles,
surmounted with the arms of Oldham cut in stone, adorns the great eastern or chancel window, and gives to
that part of the interior a rich and solemn effect. Various other “memorial windows” of stained glass have
since enriched the edifice.
INCUMBENTS OF OLDHAM CHURCH.
The first mentioned in the registers is the Rev. Robert Constantine, in 1640; and the following is the order of Succession —
The Rev. W. Worthington, ordained April 15, 1647.
The Rev. John Lake, D.D., afterwards rector of Prestwich and bishop of Chichester. -
Mr. Constantine, who had quitted Oldham in 1646, and returned on the resignation of Dr. Lake ; but was ejected on the
memorable Bartholomew's day, August 24, 1662.4 --
The Rev. Mr. Walwork Succeeded in 1664.
end Windows, with buttresses and a door. Four of the windows
ground at his own cost.
to be of three lights each, the rest of two lights. Doors, windows,
Iſla,SOInS.
All other things to be furnished by the
buttresses, pillars, and gable and ground tables, and the arch in
the porch, to be of hewn stone ; all the rest of walling stone. The
:É28 : 6 : 8 for all this work to be paid in amounts of £5 each, at
the feasts of St. Nicholas and the Nativity of St. John the Baptist
(December 6 and June 24), except the remaining £3 : 6:8, which
was to be paid when the work should be finished, which was
stipulated to be by Easter-Day 1479. The rector to find stone,
lime, sand, Water, Scaffolds, etc., and to bring them to the
1 Documents in the chest of the parish church of Prestwich.
* Ibid. -
8 Wotitia Cestriensis, note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 113.
* In an inquisition, made by order of parliament on the 4th of
June 1650, Oldham is called a parish, and the church “Oldham
Parish Church,” of which the Rev. Robert Constantine was minister,
with a stipend of £100 per annum, paid out of the tithes, amount-
ing to near £140.
Žumbrel of $alfort—3}regimitſ, tum–09ſuffam. 33arish, 455
The Rev. Isaac Harper in 1667.
Rev. J. Sugden in 1695.
Rev. John Halliwell in 1712.
Rev. J. Sugden jun, in 1712.
Rev. Samuel Townson in 1732.
Rev. Thomas Fawcet in 1770.
Rev. J. Fallowfield in 1818. .
Rev. W. Walters in 1864, the present incumbent.
The living of Oldham does not occur in the survey, made 26 Henry VIII. (1534), from which the Liber
Regis is compiled. In 1650 its value was estimated at £100 a-year, but at present it exceeds £300.
On the 4th March 1835, the king in council, by the recommendation of the church commissioners, and consent of the bishop
of Chester, directed that on the next vacancy of the rectory of Prestwich-cum-Oldham, the chapels of St. Peter, Oldham ; St.
James, Greenacres Moor; St. Margaret, Hollinwood; St. Paul, Royton; and the Holy Trinity, Shaw, shall become parochial, and
receive the privilege of celebrating marriage, independent of the present parochial chapel, Oldham. On the lamented death of the
Rev. James Lyon, which took place on the 13th August 1836, in the 54th year of his incumbency, these chapels became entitled to
have marriages solemnised. St. Peter's chapel, in Chapel Street, High Street, was built in 1765, by a voluntary subscription
raised by the inhabitants ; and in 1804 this structure was enlarged and provided with a fine-toned organ. In 1827, the foun-
dation of a new church, dedicated to St. James, was laid at Greenacres Moor, in this chapelry. On the 29th September 1829 this
handsome Gothic edifice was consecrated by Dr. Sumner, lord bishop of Chester, and opened on that day by a public confirmation.
There are in Oldham several chapels belonging to the Protestant dissenters of various denominations;
the earliest of which is a Methodist chapel in Manchester Street, built in 1789, and opened by the Rev.
John Wesley, on Good Friday, in 1790, which superseded a small chapel built for the same religious body in
1775.1 - -
Amongst others are, the Independent Chapel, Greenacres, erected shortly after 1662; Moravian, Salem, built 1822; Inde-
pendent or Hope Chapel, Greenacres Moor, erected 1824; Independent or Providence Chapel, Regent Street, built 1830;
Independent or Calvinist, Queen Street, erected 1822; and New Connection Methodist, Union Street, built 1835; Wesleyan
Methodist Association, Lord Street, opened 1835.
In 1866 the following were the places of worship within the borough —
Church of England—St. Mary's (called the parish church), Church Street, existing in 1448, and rebuilt 1830; parochial
chapelry, Rev. W. Walters, incumbent (admitted 1864), 1700 sittings, 350 free ; value, £300. St. Peters, Chapel Street, 1768; a
perpetual curacy and chapelry district, Rev. E. Owen (1861), 753 sittings; value, £300. St. James's, Greenacres Moor (as St.
Peter's), Rev. R. S. Gooday (1864), 1800 sittings, of which 900 are free ; value, £300 —of all these the rector of Prestwich is
patron. Moorside, St. James's, Rev. Alfred Starkey, curate. St. John's, Cowhill, Chadderton, 1845 (as St. Peter's); Rev. J.
Gornall (1864), 906 sittings, 450 free ; value £300; patron, the crown and the bishop of Manchester alternately. St. Matthew's
Chadderton, 1857 (as St. Peter's), Rev. J. R. Dunne (1844), 400 sittings, 200 free ; value, £150 ; patron, crown and bishop alter-
nately. St. Thomas's, Werneth, 1855, new parish, Rev. T. Ireland (1847), 578 sittings, 348 free ; value, £300; patron, crown and
bishop alternately. St. Margaret's, Hollinwood, 1769 (as St. Peter's), Rev. J. Robinson (1861), 600 sittings, 120 free ; value, £300;
patron, rector of Prestwich. Christ Church, Glodwick, 1844, new parish, Rev. J. Bumpstead (1857), 800 sittings, 419 free ; value,
£300; patron, crown and bishop alternately. Holy Trinity, Waterhead, 1847, new parish, Rev. F. B. Broadbent (1854), 790
sittings, 500 free ; value, £180 ; patron, crown and bishop alternately. Holy Trinity, Shaw, existing in 1515, rebuilt 1739,
chapelry district ; Rev. E. S. Bartleet (1866), 1000 sittings, 200 free; value, £170; patron, the rector of Prestwich. St. James's,
East Crompton, 1847, new parish, Rev. J. Littler (1845), 586 sittings, 340 free ; value, £150; patron, crown and bishop alter-
nately. High Crompton ; Rev. J. Littler officiates here also, in the afternoon only. Holy Trinity Church, Coldhurst, 1848, new
parish, Rev. J. Godson (1845), 501 sittings, 300 free ; value, £150 ; patron, crown and bishop alternately. St. Paul's, Royton,
built 1754, restored 1854, chapelry district, Rev. R. Hill (1845), 772 sittings, 82 free ; value, £300; patron, the rector of Prest-
wich. St. Mark’s, Heyside, Royton, Rev. J. B. Henderson. To these may be added St. John's, Hey, or Lees, built 1744;
consolidated chapel, Rev. C. D. Grundy (1838), 1065 sittings, 333 free ; value, £164; patron, the rector of Ashton-under-Lyne.
The dissenting and other places of worship in 1866 were :—Wesleyan Methodists, 14 chapels, including those at Middleton,
Rhodes, Shaw, Failsworth, Royton, Hollins, Luzley Brook, Lane End, Busk, Glodwick, and Watersheddings. Methodist New
Connection, 5, at Oldham, Copster Hill, Werneth, Townfield, and Hollinwood. Independent Methodists, 4 ; Primitive Methodists,
20 chapels in two circuits; Congregationalists, 6 ; United Methodists, Free, 3 ; Independents, 1 ; Baptists, 4; Particular Baptists,
3 ; Moravians, 2 ; Christian Brethren, 1 ; Unitarians, 1 ; Friends' Meeting House, 1 ; Roman Catholics, 2.
The Free Grammar-School of Oldham, situate in Schoolcroft, was founded by James Assheton, esq. of
Chadderton Hall, in 1611, and endowed with about a statute acre of land in the centre of the town. This
land is now built upon, and the rents of the premises yield a salary both to the head-master and to his
usher. The trust-deed bears date the 15th of May 1606, and the original trustees were the principal
inhabitants of the chapelry, with Laurence Chadderton, master of Emanuel College, Cambridge, a native of
this place, at their head. According to the provisions of this deed, the children were “to be freely instructed
in the English, Greek, and Latin tongues, and withal in good manners.” In addition to these branches of
learning, the education is partly commercial, and writing and arithmetic are taught, for which the usual
quarterage is paid. An inquisition (sans date), quoted in the Kuerden MS. (fol. 619), orders, “that the
feoffees being dead, a new deed shall be executed.” The commissioners report that “James Ashton, of
Chadderton, dec; did, by deed made to Law: Chaderton and other feoffees, grant a real charge of 40s. for
ever to the schoole of Oldham out of a messuage in Oldham then in occupancy of Rog. Taylor and of James
Rodes and not payd for 52 years.]”
* By the census of 1851, the numbers of places of worship, and Connection, 1,442; Primitive Methodists, 2, 782 ; Wesleyan Asso-
sittings, in the municipal borough of Oldham (population, 52,820), ciation, 2, 388; Independent Methodists, 2, 790; isolated congre-
were then :—Church of England, 9, 7870 sittings; Independents, gations, 2, 600; Roman Catholics, 1,490; Total, 29 places, 16,784
4, 2390 ; Particular Baptists, 2, 770; Unitarians, 1, 188; Mora- sittings.
vians, 1, 484; Wesleyan Methodists, 2, 1590; Methodist New
456 Gje #igtorg of 3Lantagjire.
The other public charities, as shown in the Sixteenth Report of the Commissioners appointed by
Parliament for inquiring concerning Charities, are— -
John Walker's Charity in 1755, of the interest of £600 for teaching poor children of Oldham and other places to read : Poor's
Field Charity; the rents and profits of a close, containing two acres, called the Great Meadow, given in 1640 by Edm. Tetlow the
elder and Edm. Tetlow the younger to the poor of Oldham, 28s. 8d. per annum, and to the poor of Royton 3s. 4d. per annum :
John Tetlow's charity in 1704; the profits of a farm in Honeywell Lane, with out-buildings, cottage, and three closes, producing a
rent of £30 per annum, and land on North Moor producing £3, to bind yearly the child of some poor parents apprentice to a trade,
and the overplus to be given to the poor : Samuel Haward's Charity, of the date of 1704, comprising a yearly rent-charge of £15
out of lands in Salford, Thorpe, and Royton, £5 yearly out of a messuage near Hollinwood, and £5 out of Wilding's tenement in
Gorton, of which sums £5 is appointed to be given to the poor of Salford, and the remaining £20 to be distributed in bibles and
catechisms among poor children, and in woollen cloth among poor men and women of Oldham : Eyre's Charity; the interest of
£100 to such poor persons of Oldham as receive no relief from the town : Scholes's Charity, in 1747, a yearly rent of £12 for a
messuage in Glodwick, with 15 acres of land, and a yearly rent of £4 from several messuages in Oldham, towards the salary of a
schoolmaster, to teach such a number of boys and girls as the trustees shall nominate : Wyld's Charity, in 1672; a yearly rent of
£5 to the poor of Crompton : Hollinwood School and a dwelling-house, built by subscription in 1786; to this school the Rev. John
Darbey, in 1808, left £100, and his sister, Miss Darbey, left £30 additional, which were laid out in a house and shop, for which
the schoolmaster receives a yearly rent of £8. But the crowning charity of Oldham, and indeed one of the most important charities
in the county, arises out of the bequests of the late Mr. Thomas Henshaw, an opulent hat-manufacturer of this place, who, by will
of the date of the 14th of November 1807, bequeathed £20,000 for the endowment of a Blue-Coat School at Oldham, and the same
amount for the endowment of a Blind Asylum at Manchester. By a codicil to this will, dated the 9th of January in the following
year, he bequeathed £20,000 more to the Blue-Coat School, leaving it to the option of his trustees to establish the Blue-Coat
School either at Oldham or Manchester. By a provision of the will, it was directed “that the said money should not be applied
in the purchase of lands, or in the erection of buildings,” it being his “expectation that other persons would at their expense
purchase lands and buildings for these purposes;” and all the rest and residue of his personal estate he bequeathed in trust to the
trustees of these charities, to be equally divided between the said charities. By another codicil, bearing date the 14th of January
1808, the testator gave to the trustees of the Manchester Infirmary £1000; to the Lunatic Asylum there, £1000; to the Manchester
Lying-in-Hospital, £500; and to the Ladies' Charity there, £500.” Contrary to his expectations, persons were not easily found
who would, at their own expense, purchase lands and buildings for the Blue-Coat School and the Blind Asylum establishments;
but in the year 1828, when the £60,000 left to these charities had accumulated at interest to £100,000, offers were made by three
public-spirited gentlemen of Oldham,_Mr. Wrigley, Mr. Robert Radcliffe of Foxdenton, and Mr. Joseph Jones jun-of portions of
land whereon to erect the Blue-Coat School. After an inspection of the premises by a deputation of the trustees under Mr.
Henshaw's will, the land offered by Mr. Radcliffe and Mr. Jones, situated on the lower part of Oldham Edge, was accepted as the
site of the buildings, and subscriptions were entered into by the inhabitants to discharge the cost of the requisite erections.
Though the subscriptions, amounting to between £5000 and £6000, were insufficient for the completion of the buildings, the
foundation-stone was laid on Easter Monday, April 20, 1829, by Thomas Barker, esq., one of the most liberal of the benefactors.
The works proceeded at the cost of general subscriptions till July 1830, when the progress of the building was suspended till
August 1832; at this period the builders recommenced their labours. The three gables or wings in front contain Gothic windows,
and are surmounted by spiral pinnacles and Small circular turrets. The school-room, dining-apartment, and hall for meetings of
the trustees, are the principal rooms. The architect was Mr. Richard Lane. The total cost of erection was about £7900. On the
25th June 1834, 48 poor boys were elected for admission—35 from Oldham township, the remainder from Prestwich, Middleton,
Manchester, Ashton-under-Lyne, and Saddleworth ; and on the 25th March 1835 an additional number of 52 boys was chosen—24
of Oldham township, and the remaining proportions of Prestwich, Middleton, Eccles, Manchester, Ashton-under-Lyne, Saddleworth,
and Rochdale. The boys first elected were admitted into the school 15th December 1834. Candidates for admission present to
general meetings of the trustees the requisite testimonials, signed by the churchwarden, overseers, and other inhabitants of the
parishes they are from. The noble endowment devised to this foundation by Thomas Henshaw, esq., together with the interest, is
wested in the three per cent consols, and altogether amounts to about £100,000. The Blue-Coat School was opened in June 1834.
In it about 120 boys, belonging chiefly to the borough of Oldham and the parish of Manchester, are clothed, lodged, educated,
and trained. It is under the control of twelve trustees, and has a governor who is also head-master, a chaplain, surgeon, and
ImatrOn.
On the 28th June 1834 fourteen lives were lost in the accidental destruction by fire of the Union Mill,
a cotton-factory at Oldham. The Terrace Market, a spacious covered market-house, was erected in the years
1835 and 1836, and was opened on the 21st May 1836.
Oldham, like many of the border towns in Lancashire, where a species of racy Saxon is still spoken,
appears to have derived its name from eald, Eld, Ald, or Old, and ham, habitation, a cluster of houses.
It appears from the Testa de Nevill, fol. 372, that in the reign of Henry III. Alwardus de Aldholme held
two bovates of land in Vernet (now Werneth) for 19d. and the moiety of one farthing. This Alward was the
founder of the family of Oldham, whose daughter and co-heiress conveyed Wernith Hall and its manor to the
Cudworths, a branch of the Yorkshire family. The manor of Oldham or Aldholme was held in the 18th
Edward II. (1324-5), by Richard, son of William, son of Adam de Oldham ; and in 26 Henry IV. (1400), it
was found that John, son of Margery Cudworth, daughter of Richard de Oldham, held the manor of Oldham
of the king, as parcel of the duchy of Lancaster, by knight's service, and a rent of 6s. 8d. Chamber Hall
was held by Richard Tetlow in the reign of Edward II.—Robert, son of Adam de Oldham, having granted to
Richard, son of Adam de Tetlow, lands in Wernith-juxta-Oldham, by deed dated 14 Edward II. (1320-21).
His grandfather, Adam de Tetlow (according to a deed quoted in 1639, in a dispute respecting the commons
of Oldham with Sir John Byron), having married Eva, daughter of William, son of Adam de Oldham, obtained
her lands in Wernith and Oldham. The family remained in good repute and lineal descent until Jane, sole
heiress of Robert Tetlow, esq., conveyed the estate in marriage to George Wood, gentleman, who sold it in
1646 to Mr. Henry Wrigley, a linen-draper in Salford, whose granddaughter Martha, daughter and heiress of
* In 1810 Mr. Henshaw died, and an attempt was made by his after a suit, first in the Consistory Court of the Bishop of Chester,
widow and executrix, Sarah Henshaw, and Ann Hadfield, who and afterwards in the High Court of Chancery, the will was estab-
claimed to be his niece and next of kin, to set aside the will ; but, lished.
#umbren of $alfort—ºrestinitiatum-9ſbijam 33arígí, 457
Henry Wrigley, esq., having, about 1680, married Joseph Gregge, esq., the estate was devised to him. His
grandson, Edward Gregge Hopwood of Hopwood, esq., settled it upon his younger children in 1786." From
Birche’s MS. Feodarium of the Duchy (title, Salforthshire), it seems that Richard, son of Richard de Oldham,
held by service of 7s. 8d. a carucate of land in Wernith and Oldham, which had formerly belonged to Adam
de Eccles; and in the Cudworth papers there is the following passage relating to these two families:–“I
find by another antient Deed made by Adam de Eccles, Lord of Oldhā & Wirneth that hee granted the 4th
parte of the towne of Wirneth to his sonne Wm. and with Homage and service 7d from the lands of Richd
de Morton & 22d from William the sonne of Simon of Wirneth &c.” In the 34th of Henry VI. (1455-6)
the manor-house took fire, and was destroyed, and the family records shared the fate of the mansion. In
due time the house was rebuilt, and the manor and estate remained in the family till the early part of the
last century. Dr. Ralph Cudworth, son of Ralph Cudworth, “chief lord of Oldham,” as Fuller calls him, was
born here. About the latter part of the eighteenth century Joshua Cudworth, esq., the representative of the
family, sold Wernith Hall, and the estate, to Sir Raphe Assheton of Middleton, who presented it as a portion
to his third daughter Catherine, on her marriage with Thomas Lister of Arnoldsbiggin, esq. This manor and
estate, which consists of about 100 acres of land, with valuable minerals, chiefly of coal, and extensive common
rights, was sold to Messrs. Parker and Tidebottom of London, for £25,000, and resold by them, in 1794, for
#30,000, to John Lees of Wernith, esq., grandfather of the present owner.
HUGH OLDHAM, LL.B., bishop of Exeter, descended of an ancient family of that name, was born, according to Wood and
Godwin, at or near Manchester, but according to Dodsworth, at Oldham, “in a house still standing in Goulburn Street,” soon
after the middle of the fifteenth century. He was in all probability brought up in the household of Thomas, first Earl of Derby,
and placed under the tuition of “one Westbury, an Oxford man,” retained by the Countess Margaret for the express purpose of
instructing “certayne yonge gentilmen at her findinge,” together with her stepson James Stanley, afterwards bishop of Ely, and
William Smyth, afterwards bishop of Lincoln ; with the latter of which prelates he enjoyed during his life an uninterrupted
friendship, founded on habits of intimacy and great mutual respect. At the proper period he was sent to Exeter College, Oxford,
where he received part of his education, and afterwards removed thence to Queen's College, Cambridge, where he completed his
studies and took his degrees. His first preferment appears to have been the church of St. Mildred, Bread Street, in the city of
London, to which he was admitted on the 19th of September 1485. In 1493 he was made canon of the royal chapel of St. Stephen,
Westminster, afterwards the House of Commons, and presented by his patroness, the countess of Derby, through the interest of his
friend Smyth, who stood high in her confidence, to the rectory of Swineshead, in the county of Lincoln ; and, on the 4th of July
next year, to the valuable living of Cheshunt, in the county of Hertford, on Smyth's resignation, who had previously enjoyed it,
and was admitted prebendary of Lichfield cathedral. In 1495 he was elected master of St. John's Hospital in Lichfield, presented
to a stall in Salisbury cathedral, and nominated one of the countess's chaplains. On the 11th of March 1496 he was collated to
the prebend of Stoke Newington, in Middlesex; in 1497 to a stall in Lincoln cathedral; to the church of Wareboys, by the abbot
and convent of Romsey; and to the hospital of St. Leonard, in Bedford; in 1499 he was made prebendary of South Cave, in the
cathedral of York ; and on the 17th of August was nominated to the church of Shyttlington, being at that time bachelor of laws.
On the 2d of April 1501 he became rector of Overton, in the diocese of Winchester; in 1504, archdeacon of Exeter; and by a
continuation of the same interest, on the death of Arundel, the late bishop, was elected to the see of Exeter by bull of Pope Julian,
dated the 5 calends of December (November 27.) He received license of consecration on the 29th of December, and was restored to
the temporalities on the 6th of January next year. The following character of Bishop Oldham is extracted from Hooker's
manuscripts in the Rawlinson collection, in the Bodleian Library, Oxford, and seems to have afforded the basis of all that has been
written respecting him —
“He was a man having more zeale then knowledge, and more devotion then learninge, somewhat rough in speeche, but friendley in
doings ; he was careful in the saveing and defending of his liberties, for which continuall suites was between him and the Abbott of
Tavestock ; he was liberal to the Vicars chorall of his church, and reduced them to the keepinge of comons, and towards the maintaining
he gave them certaine revenews and impropriated unto them the Rectorie of Cornwood :—he, albeit (of himself) he were not learned, yet
a greate favorer and furtherer of learninge and of learned men, notwithstanding he was sometimes crossed in his honest attempt therein.
He was first minded to have enlarged Exeter Colledge in Oxford, as well in buildings as in fellowships: But, after being a requester to
the fellows for one Atkins to be a fellow, in whose favour he had written his letters and was denied, he changed his mind, and his good
will was alienated. About this time Dr. Smyth, bishop of Lincoln, was building of the Colledge, named Brazen Nose, and he was very
willing and desirous to joyne with him, but being denied to have the nomination of a founder, his mind was changed. Not long after
being advertized that Bishop Fox of Winchester was minded to erect and found a new colledge, joyned with him and contributed unto
him a greate masse of money, and soe a colledge was builded, and then the house was named Corpus X*. College. Whereof the one of
them bore the name of a founder, and the other Primarius Benefactor ; howbeit some diversitie was between these two bishops at the first
to what use this colledge should be employed ; for the founder was of the mind that he would have made it for a house of monks, but the
|benefactor was of the contrary mind, and would have it for scholars, alledging that monks were but a sort of bussing bees, and whose
state would not long endure ; whereas scholars brought up in learning would be profitable members of the commonwealth, and good
ornaments to the church of God, and continue for ever.”
The bishop seems to have been of a pious and munificent disposition —living in the closest friendship with William Smyth,
the good bishop of Lincoln, to whom he was indebted for his early advancement, and, perhaps, for his future success in life ; the
executor of that unblemished courtier Sir Reginald Bray, Knight of the Garter, “a man of exalted wisdom and resplendent piety;”
and the supervisor of the will of Thomas, second early of Derby :-he could not but imbibe the charitable and liberal feelings which
had pervaded their great minds, and had in so eminent a degree proved beneficial to succeeding generations. Yet although by
habits of amity and a gentle disposition he was much inclined to peace and quietness, Oldham possessed sufficient courage and
determination to assert and defend his rights; and his quarrel with the abbot of Tavistock, and his junction in the common cause
with Fox, bishop of Winchester, against the prerogative of Warham, archbishop of Canterbury, amply attest this fact. He
contributed the sum of 600 marks (£400), besides land, to the building of Corpus Christi College, and made a handsome donation to
Brazen Nose, by furnishing the original library; and to the church of Exeter in lands in Totness, in Devonshire. He also founded
and endowed the free grammar-school of Manchester. Having held the see of Exeter rather more than fifteen years, he died on the
25th of June 1519, and was buried in the chapel he had erected in Exeter cathedral. His will, dated the 16th December 1518, and
proved the 16th July 1519, is deposited in the Prerogative Court of Canterbury—Richard, bishop of Winchester, and Thomas,
bishop of Salisbury, his suffragan, being executors.
*sº
* Notes by Rev. Canon Raines, in Notitia, Cestričnsis, ii. 112, 115.
3 N
458 Ǻr £istory of £antagüirº.
The following gentlemen in this chapelry furnished the undermentioned quotas of men for the public
defence, in the time of Queen Elizabeth, when the country was threatened by a Spanish invader:-John
Radcliffe, esq., 25 men; Edmund Assheton, esq., 3 men; Thos. de Crompton, 5 ; Lawrence Tetlow, 6 men ;
Ralphe Cudworth, 4 men; and the Lady Byron for Royton, 16 men.
Lees Hall was granted by John Cudworth, esq., its early lord, to Sir Thomas Ashton, knight, of
Ashton-under-Lyne, in 7 Henry VIII. (1515), who, after holding the lands and building in socage, purchased
and conveyed them to 'his son-in-law, Perkin Lee or Leigh, esq. of Lyme, in Cheshire, whose descendants
enjoyed them for centuries, but the Lingards became the possessors about the year 1700; from them the
estate passed by sale to the Cleggs of Bent, the present owners, the hall descending to J. Lyon, esq., barrister-
at-law, who occupied and adorned it. In 1761 his executors sold the premises to the late John Lees, whose
grandson is the present possessor. This ancient fabric, once an elegant mansion, is now divided into mean
Cottages.
From a survey made in 1640 at the cost of the parish by Robert Lytham and Thomas Mellor, it
appears that there was then little cultivated land, the following being mentioned as moors and wastes:—In
Shaw, four heaths, comprising 16% acres: Beile Moor, 43% acres and 18 perches; Hathershaw Moor, 104;
acres and 1 perch; North Moor, joining on the north of Royton, and on the west of Chadderton, 67 acres;
Hollingword, 66% acres; Prust Hill Moor, 6% acres; Oldham Edge, 24% acres and 11 perches; Sholver
Moor, Little Moor, and Hopkin Moor, bordering on Yorkshire, 178 acres; Greenacres Moor, 49 acres; and
High Moor, those in Oldham, Crompton, and Saddleworth, 300 acres—Total, 857 acres. In 1795, says
Aikin, the district contained 500 acres of waste land, but this has been greatly reduced, the only unreclaimed
land being parts of White Moss in Chadderton, and Crompton Moor in Crompton. So late as 1761, though
the era of the cotton-trade was then opening, Oldham consisted of little more than a hundred cottages,
mostly thatched. In 1861 it contained in 13,810 houses a population of 72,333; such has been its advance
towards that prosperity which trade and commerce have diffused so widely over the face of this country.
The vicinity of Oldham to Manchester, the great mart for cotton goods, the advantages of railway and
water carriage, but, above all, the abundant supply of coal from the mines in the surrounding townships,
have constituted this one of the most extensive and improving seats of the staple manufacture in the county.
The goods chiefly made here are fustians, velveteens, calicoes, and cotton and woollen cords. The original
staple trade of Oldham, and that for which this place has been for many ages pre-eminently distinguished, is
the manufacture of hats. As early as the year 1482 a great alarm existed, on account of the introduction of
machinery for the abridgment of manual labour, as applied to the fulling of hats, which operation had
theretofore been performed by the action of the hands and feet; and it is probable, though there is no
positive evidence of the fact, that the journeymen hatters of this district were amongst the number of those
who petitioned parliament, with some success, to forbid the use of the new machines; however that may be,
the hat-manufacture has continued to prevail in this county ever since, and it is now carried on to as great an
extent in Oldham, in proportion to the number of inhabitants, as perhaps in any place in England. From
the early part of the last century, the Cleggs of Bent Hall have been eminent in this line, and it was not
till 1795 that they found formidable rivals in the then new manufacturing firm of “Henshaw and Co.,” at the
head of which stood Mr. Thomas Henshaw, the public benefactor, whose fortune was realised in this business.
The first steam-engine made use of for a cotton-mill in Oldham was in 1794. There were then 12
mills and about 10,000 inhabitants. In 1831, 62 cotton-mills and 32,381 inhabitants. In 1866 the
population of the borough was upwards of 80,000. There were 120 mills and manufactories, containing
nearly three million spindles (the largest number in any town in the world), with about 9000 looms, worked
by 42,000 indicated horses'-power; employing upwards of 28,000 hands, and producing 2,780,000 lbs. weight
of yarn per week, which is equal to a consumption of one-ninth part of the entire consumption of cotton in
Great Britain. There are also 77 machine-works and foundries, extensive coal-works and hat-manufactories,
which together are worked by 10,000 indicated horses'-power, and give employment to 10,000 of the male
population.
The coal-mines in this neighbourhood open an important branch of trade, and give employment to a
large number of persons. Every township in the parish has its collieries, and the quality of the coal obtains for
it a preference in the Manchester market. The quantity of fuel dug up yearly from the numerous beds is
immense, and the supply seems inexhaustible. The coal strata, as well as all the other minerals, dip here to
the S.S.W., or, as it is technically called, to the two-o'clock sun ; and coal is found at all the distances, from
the surface to a depth of one hundred and fifty yards. The beds vary in thickness from half-a-yard to five
feet. The trade and traffic of the neighbourhood, both in coal and in the various branches of the
manufacture, are essentially promoted by the inland navigation ; and the Oldham Canal, which commences at
Hollinwood, on the west side of the town, and communicates with Manchester, Ashton-under-Lyne, and
Stockport, as well as the Rochdale Canal, which passes through the heart of the township of Chadderton,
contribute to enrich and improve this district.
In 1826 an act of parliament was obtained by the inhabitants of Oldham, by which they were
#umbret of $alfort—33rtgttgtc.jerum-9|bijam 33arišij. 459
empowered to establish a local police for the purpose of lighting, cleansing, and watching the town.
The town was governed by a body of police commissioners for executing this act of 7 Geo. IV, cap. 117
(local), known as “The Oldham Police Act,” till Oldham became a municipal borough by a royal charter,
dated June 13, 1849; the limits of the municipal borough being made conterminous with the township of
Oldham, which includes Oldham-below-Town and Oldham-above-Town. The powers of the police commis-
sioners for executing the police act were transferred to the corporation, by an indenture dated February 6,
1850, executed according to the provisions of the act of 5 and 6 Will. IV. (1835), cap. 76, sec. 75. The
municipal borough or township of Oldham has an area of 4617 statute acres. Number of burgesses on the
list in 1867, 6853. In 1861 its population was 72,333; in 1865 its estimated population was 76,780; and
its gross rateable property, £256,136. In 1865 it had 17,628 occupied, and 791 unoccupied dwelling-
houses, 1200 dwelling-shops, 483 cellar-dwellings, 80 shops not dwellings, 180 factories and sheds, 8 hat-
manufactories, 99 other workshops, 99 Smithies and bolt-shops, and 1297 buildings not described; 48 churches
and chapels, 84 schools, 162 public-houses, 227 beer-houses, 89 saw-mills and joiners' shops, 15 plumbers'
and glaziers' shops, 64 lodging-houses, and 15,770 dwellings. .*
The municipal borough is divided into eight wards—St. Mary's, St. Peter's, Werneth, Westwood,
Clarksfield, Mumps, St. James's, and Waterhead; each being represented in the council by one alderman and
3 councillors, making the council to consist of 8 aldermen (one of whom is the mayor), and 24 councillors—
in all 32 members. Besides the quarterly meetings (February, May, August, and November), the council
meets on the first Wednesday evening in every month. There are six permanent committees—1. Park and
Cemeteries; 2. Gas and Waterworks; 3. General Purposes; 4. Surveyors'; 5. Watch ; and 6. Finance. The
following is a list of the mayors since the borough was incorporated:—
William Jones, Esq. sº - 1849-50 Abraham Leach, Esq. - - 1859-60-61
James Collinge, Esq. - - 1851-52 John Platt, Esq. - - 1861-62
James Lees, Esq. - * -- 1853–54 John Riley, Esq. - -- 1862-3-4
John Platt, Esq. - * -- 1854-5-6 Josiah Radcliffe, Esq. - - I864-65
Josiah Radcliffe, Esq. - - 1856–7-8 William Knott, Esq. - - 1865-66
George Barlow, Esq. sº * 1858-59 John Taylor, Esq. * - 1866-67
The Town-Hall, erected in 1840-41, is a substantial brick-building, with stone façade to Yorkshire
Street, Ionic in style, consisting of a central entrance by steps, between columns supporting a pediment. It
contains in the basement four cells for prisoners, on the ground-floor a large room for the County Court
and Petty Sessions, which are held four days weekly—Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday—
before two magistrates, there being fifteen magistrates of the borough. On this floor are also offices for the
nuisance-inspectors, inspector of hackney-carriages, and collectors of rates. On the principal floor is the
Council Chamber, 66 by 33 feet, and offices for the borough-surveyor, the borough-auditors, and others
connected with the municipal business of the borough.
The police-force consists of one chief-constable (Mr. Charles Hodgkinson), 5 inspectors, 8 Sergeants, and
41 constables—total 55. The office of the chief-constable, and the head-quarters station of the police, are in
the Town-Hall; two other police-stations are at Townfield and Werneth, which are also fire-engine stations.
At each station are cells for prisoners. Each police-station is in charge of a police-inspector, and at each
station is also a conductor of the fire-brigade. The central fire-engine station is in Clegg Street, and the fire-
brigade consists of 40 men, who are also police-officers or lamplighters, and their whole time is at the service
of the corporation. There are six fire-engines, two at each station ; also a fire-escape and a hose-reel at each
of the three stations. The chief-constable is also superintendent of the public lamps, and 16 lamplighters,
under him, are also firemen and assistant-constables.
There are 22 county magistrates usually acting for and in the Oldham division of the county, and petty
sessions for the division are held at the Sessions-Room, Royton, every Wednesday.
“The Oldham County Court” sits once a-month on Friday at the Town-Hall, Charles Temple, esq., Q.C.,
judge ; John Summerscales, esq., registrar.'
The gas and water works were first constructed by the “Oldham Gaslight and Waterworks Company,”
incorporated by 6 Geo. IV. cap. 171. The works were extended under the 1 and 2 Vict. cap. 96 (1838),
and in 1853 the whole property was purchased by the corporation. The waterworks have been considerably
extended under the powers of an act obtained in 1855. The old works are situated at Strinesdale, on the
border of the borough, and the new works, which are of an extensive character, are in the township of
Butterworth. The works have three drainage areas—at Strinesdale (660 acres); at Brushes Clough and
Beesom Hill (700); and at Piethorn (1340), making a total drainage area of 2700 acres. The two highest
reservoirs (Piethorn and the Strinesdale Upper) have a level above the Ordnance datum of about 815 feet.
In all there are eight reservoirs, their depths varying from 27 to 58 feet, their areas from 24 to 40 statute acres,
1 In 1866 the Oldham County Court determined 4 cases with and the amount (debts) of £3954; and 17 adjudications in bankruptcy
1788 without a jury ; judgments were obtained by plaintiffs to were made.
460 (Iſiſt ºigturn of £antašijire.
and their capacity from 11 million to 344 million gallons—the aggregate capacity of the eight reservoirs being
742 million gallons. The interest on the cost of the extension of the waterworks, with the annual redemption
of the original purchase, has for the present absorbed all the profits on the gas; the gas and the Water having
always been treated as one concern, the two having been purchased together. The profits, however, from
the gasworks alone would be a considerable sum ; and there is the prospect, as the water-revenue is now yearly
increasing by a large sum, that the works will yield a handsome surplus in aid of the local rates. The limits
of the gas and water supply include, in addition to Oldham, the townships of Chadderton, Crompton, Fails-
worth, Royton, Lees, Alt Edge, and part of Saddleworth.
The present borough-rate, which covers all expenses paid out of the local taxation, is 2s. 6d. in the
pound. Out of this rate all the expenses of the park, the cemeteries, highways, lighting, watching, baths
and washhouses, fire-brigade, town-hall, market, and all the general expenses of the municipal borough, are
paid. The assessment is on the rental for the borough-rate. The annual value of the property in the
borough is £270,026. The rateable value for the poor-rate is £190,029.
Of the working of the corporation, probably the best idea will be formed by a brief abstract of the
accounts of the borough-treasurer in the several departments for the year ended August 31, 1866—the last
printed:— *
BOROUGH FUND ACCOUNT.-Receipts (including borough-rate, £1200), £1214. [Shillings and pence omitted.] Payments.-
Balance due to treasurer, August 1865, £353; town-clerk's salary, £400. Total, £1174; leaving a balance in hand of £40.
WATCH-RATE.—Receipts.-Balance in hand, August 1865, £741; watch-rate, £3656; magistrates' clerk's fees, £590; penalties,
etc., £370. Total, £5374. Payments.-Chief constable's salary, £250; policemen's wages, £3155; their clothing and accoutrements,
£318; expenses of borough justices, £352. Total, £4336; leaving a balance in hand of £1037. BATHS AND WASHHOUSES.–
Receipts.-Rate, £612; baths and bathing, £355. Total, £1016. Payments.-Balance due to treasurer, August 1865, £195;
Superintendent's salary, £103; coal and coke, £98; repairs and alterations, £101. Total, £749; leaving a balance in hand of
£266. GAS AND WATER.—Receipts.-Mortgages, £44,955; gas-rent from private consumers, £35,082; from public lamps, £2957;
gas-fittings, £5063; coke, £1656; tar, £1207; water-rent, ÉT1,416 ; water-fittings, £1612; old materials, £580. Total, £105,648.
Payments.-Balance due to the treasurer, August 1865, £37,557; Piethorn reservoirs, £5888; conduit and reservoirs, £258;
extension of water-mains, £3530; extension of gasworks (mains, £1932, new gasholder, É1177), £5684; ditto at Higginshaw,
£654; labourers' wages and repairs (including sewering, paving, etc.), £5479; watermen's wages and repairs, £1982; Borough
Improvement Act, #1882; gas-fittings and fitting-up, £4338; water ditto, ditto, £776; cannel and coal, £17,762; retort-men's wages,
£3274; agency, book-keeping, and collecting—for gas, £1093; for water, £640; rents and rates on gasworks, £820; on Water-
works, £448; annuitants, £8524; interest and compensation, £2625; interest on mortgages, £6073; annuity-redemption fund,
£2000; mortgage-redemption fund, £4840; redeemed mortgages, £21,460. Total, £138,478 ; leaving a balance in hand of
£32,829. The stock-account, Liabilities, shows annuities of £8788 per annum, £219,700; amount borrowed on mortgage, £160,766;
balance due to the treasurer, £32,829. Permanent Assets.--Gas and water works to August 1865, £449,085; expended since,
£15,436 ; together, £464,521. Floating Assets.-Balance from redemption-fund, £41,682; materials on hand, £5349; accounts
outstanding, £2066; together, É48,898. Total assets, £513,419 ; excess of assets over liabilities, £94,851. GENERAL PURPOSES
RATE.—Receipts.-Rate, £15,426 ; work and material, £1860; loan from Public Works Commissioners (for park), £2200 ; ditto
for private streets and sewers, £26,280; received on account of private streets, £8933. Total, £56,405. Payments.-Balance due
to treasurer, August 1865, £8641; manual labour, £5.178; scavenging, £1151; team labour, É2182 ; materials for private streets,
and repairs of highways, £1733; surveyor's and clerks’ salaries, £930; principal and interest on loans for private streets and
Sewerages, £3235; removing night-soil and ashes (including railway waggons), £2827; Sundry expenses (parliamentary, £1756;
labour and material for siding in Mumps Yard, £571), £2716; town-hall expenses, £406; fire-engine expenses, £797; public park
expenses (manual and team labour, f1768 ; buildings, £2593), £7782; private street expenses (41 streets), £13,678; street lighting
expenses (gas for street lamps, £2524; lamplighters' wages, £636), £3831. Total, £56,358; leaving a balance in hand of £47.
PARLIAMENTARY ACCOUNT.-Receipts.--From gas and water works account, É1882; general purposes rate account, Él 756. Total,
£3638. Payments.-Balance due the treasurer, August 1865, £849; parliamentary agents' charges, £990; counsel's fees, £531;
J. Ponsonby, parliamentary charges, £1109. Total, #3638. MARKET.-Receipts.--Mortgages, £8000; rents of stalls and market-
tolls, £1036. Total, £9046. Payments.-Market purchase, £10,762; chief rents, £150. Total, £11,608; balance due to the
treasurer, É2562. CEMETERIES REVENUE.—Dr.—Balance in treasurer's hands, July 1865, £544; Chadderton burial-ground
receipts (64. 1st, 144 2d, and 108 3d class grave-spaces, £495; board-fees, £439; incumbent's and clerk's fees, £128), £1251 ;
Greenacres burial-ground receipts (22 1st, 70 2d, 180 3d class grave-spaces, £308; board-fees, #340; incumbent's and clerk's fees,
#89), £869. Total, #2705. Cr.—Chadderton burial-ground disbursements (sexton, £149; wages of gardeners and grave-diggers,
£151), £690; Greenacres burial-ground disbursements (sexton, £138; wages of gardeners and grave-diggers, £119), £632. Total,
fºlò22; leaving a balance in the treasurer's hands of £1383. REDEMPTION-FUND.—Dr.—Amount borrowed on mortgage, £24,000.
Cr.—Amount paid on account of money borrowed on mortgage, £11,050; balance owing on mortgage, £12,950. GENERAL CASH.—
Dr.—£45,451. Cr-£41,003; leaving a general balance in the treasurer's hands of £4448. LIABILITIES AND ASSETS OF THE
CORPORATION.—Liabilities.—To Public Works Commissioners (park), £29,210 ; ditto (private streets and sewers), £72,180 ; amount
borrowed on mortgage (cemeteries), £12,950; ditto, ditto (market), £8000. Total, £122,340. Assets.-Value of town-hall, £8723;
of engine-houses and stables, £2640; of fire-engine apparatus, £1352; of lamps, posts, and fittings, £3554; of Surveyors' tools,
water and scavenging carts, etc., #1665; of night-soil waggons, £1785 ; of horses and harness, £824; of materials on hand, £962;
of materials and labour in private streets, £5268; of public park, £31,800; of Victoria Market, É10,783; of cemeteries, £19,239;
of outstanding accounts, £33,665. Excess of assets, £4611; balance in treasurer's hands, £4448.
Since the passing of the Public Works Acts (manufacturing districts) 1863, the corporation have spent in
the paving, flagging, and sewering of private streets nearly £56,000, and on public sewers about £17,500. In
1865 the corporation obtained an improvement act, under which the town is now governed. This act also
empowers the corporation to make several new streets, and to widen and improve existing streets.
The two borough cemeteries are the property of the borough. They were made with £12,950 borrowed
on mortgage, on which interest is paid, and are valued at £19,239. One is called the Greenacres Cemetery,
and has an area of about twenty-four acres, with mortuary chapels; and the other, Chadderton Cemetery, has
an area of about twenty-one acres. They were both opened in August 1857, and are tastefully laid out and
planted with trees, shrubs, and flowering plants,
#umbrel of $alfort-3}regimiriſ-cum-9ſuffam. 33arisiſ. 461
THE ALEXANDRA PARK,
This park was opened on Oldham Wakes Monday, August 28, 1865, by the mayor, Josiah Radcliffe, esq., with a procession,
attended by the leading men of the town ; but the weather was very unfavourable. At the entrance-lodge of the park the ceremonial
of presenting the key to the mayor took place. The key is a very handsome one of steel, and gilt. Around the rim that usually
forms the ring of keys, and in the centre, are suitable inscriptions. The mayor, in receiving the key from Mr. Bamford, the
chairman of the Park Committee, said he had much pleasure in unlocking the gate, and declaring the Alexandra Park open to the
use of the inhabitants of Oldham for ever. The gate was then thrown fully open, and the procession took its way to the pavilion.
The volunteers fired a few de joie. The hundredth psalm was sung, after which the mayor said this was one of those places where
all could meet, both high and low, rich and poor, on what they might call common ground—where a man could go without let or
hindrance from any person, so long as he conducted himself in a proper manner. He declared the park duly opened. Three cheers
were then given to the Park Committee, after which the mayor added that at the entrance to the park there was a stone prepared
for the reception of the usual articles commonly deposited on the occasion of the foundation-stone laying. In a bottle to be enclosed
in the receptacle there had been a full description of the park, the current coins of the realm, and copies of Oldham, Manchester,
and Liverpool papers. The town-clerk read a copy of the paper deposited in the bottle, as follows:–
“The Alexandra Park, this day opened, was suggested by a special committee appointed by the council for considering the means to
be taken for the purpose of employing the distressed operatives of the borough, thrown out of employment by reason of the cotton-famine
occasioned by the war in America, now happily terminated. On the 3d June 1863, this special committee, impressed with the importance
of providing in large manufacturing towns places of recreation, presented a report to the council recommending the purchase and laying-
out of the Swine Clough estate, the property of the Rev. John Cocker, B.D., of New Bank in Crompton, which this gentleman had consented
to sell for the purpose, for the sum of £10,750, and the employment of the operatives in carrying out the necessary works. This recom-
mendation met with the hearty approval of the council, and it is believed of the general public. The Swine Clough estate was purchased ;
and to render the park, with the approaches, complete, the council purchased about fifteen acres of adjoining land from Joseph Jones, esq.
of Severn Stoke, near Worcester, and about five acres from Joseph Lees, esq. of Clarksfield, Oldham, and others—making a total of seventy-
two acres, which has been obtained at a cost of £18,000. Of this land nearly sixty acres has been laid out as the park: the aggregate
cost of the site, buildings, road, and laying out, and of making the main road bounding the easterly side of the park leading to Glodwick,
and culverting over 200 yards of Sheepwashes brook to receive a large embankment forming the before-mentioned road, being about
£31,000, of which sum £30,900 has been lent by the Public Works (manufacturing districts) Act, 1863, repayable, with interest at £3:10s.
per cent per annum, by annual instalments extending over a period of thirty years. On the acquisition of the land the committee offered
premiums for the two best designs for laying out the park; and of those submitted, the designs and plans of Mr. Henderson of Birkenhead,
and Messrs. Woodhouse and Potts of Oldham, were adopted. The first sod was turned on the 2d day of December 1863 by John Riley,
esq., then mayor, at a point near the South-easterly end of the terrace. Since then the works have proceeded in a satisfactory manner,
and have now been brought nearly to a state of completion. During the execution of the works a considerable number of the cotton
operatives have been employed, and it is only due to them to record the patience with which they have borne their trials, and the perse-
verance with which they have applied themselves to the duty of earning their bread, instead of depending for it upon charity. There are
two principal entrances to the park—one on the westerly or Sheepwashes side, and the other at the easterly or Glodwick side. At the
former there are two gates, one leading to the land intended to be appropriated for building purposes, and the other leading to the park.
The building is of Yorkshire stone, in Italian style, with a small tower. The gates are of ornamental cast iron, hung to bold stone piers.
The terrace-walk commences about seventy yards from the entrance-gates, and is approached by a bold flight of steps. The terrace is
18 yards wide, and about 400 yards long, and is considered one of the finest in the country. In the centre is erected a band-pavilion,
having an ornamental cast-iron front, commanding a view of the opposite walk which commects the terrace with the roads on the lower
side of the park. In the centre of this walk a fountain has been erected, built of stone, having two basins, each supported by five granite
columns, with carved stone capitals. The jet issues from the mouth of a dolphin held in the arms of a boy, carved in stone. This fountain
is the gift of Josiah Radcliffe, esq., the present mayor. The terrace terminates with a stone balustrade and a flight of steps leading to the
higher ground, whereon is erected a building intended for a refreshment-room and a place of shelter, with an upper storey, which will afford
the opportunity of establishing hereafter a museum in connection with the park. The windows of this room are of stained glass, repre-
senting “Peace and Plenty,” and “Industry and Commerce,” and are the gift of Mr. Councillor Bamford, the chairman of the park
committee, and Mr. Alderman Riley, the ex-mayor. The building and gates at the Glodwick entrance are similar in design to those at
Sheepwashes. From this entrance a walk is formed leading behind the refreshment-room, thence to the gardener's cottage, which stands
on the site of Swine Clough. The building is in the Gothic style, built of brick. In connection with this house are the propagating house
and other necessary buildings. From this point the road takes a curve to a rustic bridge near the walk leading from the terrace to the
fountain. This point is marked by a statue erected by Mr. Alderman Taylor. The road then skirts the end of the lake, which is a place
of considerable interest in the park, the overflow forming a waterfall, the lake also supplying a second fountain at the foot of the waterfall.
The road thence leads to near the foot of the terrace-steps. The park on the south-west is for a considerable distance bounded by the
Sheepwashes brook, running along the valley, through which there is a winding walk leading to the extreme end of the valley, and ascending
by a number of steps to the boys' and girls' playgrounds, north-east of the gardener's cottage. The park affords ample space for the
recreation and enjoyment of the people, and the appreciation of the working classes especially has already been testified by the immense
numbers which have visited it during the past Summer ; and the committee have endeavoured to render the place as attractive to all classes,
as they have no doubt it will prove beneficial to the health, and the promotion of the enjoyment and wellbeing of the people.—Town
Hall, Oldham, August 28th, 1865.”
After addresses the National Anthem was sung, and the crowd gradually dispersed. The mayor and members of the corporation
next proceeded to the corner-stone at the entrance gate, where the concluding ceremony of the day was appointed to take place.
The bottle having been handed to the mayor and deposited, his Worship stated that it contained copies of the Oldham Chronicle,
the Oldham Standard, the Manchester newspapers, and two London papers, various coins of the realm, amounting to £1 : 19 : 11%,
and the original copy of the document previously read by the town-clerk. The party then left the park in order of procession,
headed by a body of constables, and returned to the Town-Hall about two o'clock. A cold collation was served at the Town-Hall
at half-past three, about 100 gentlemen being present. The mayor presided. The usual toasts and sentiments were gone through.
About eight acres of the park-land is being let (1867) for the erection of villa residences only.
The Post Office is in Greaves Street, and connected with it are a Money-Order Office, Savings' Bank,
and 20 receiving and sub-offices, wall and pillar boxes. The Manchester and Liverpool District Banking
Company has a branch bank in Yorkshire Street; the Manchester and County Bank (limited) at Walshaw,
Mumps; the bank for savings is in Clegg Street; the Stamp-Office in Lord Street ; the Excise Office at the
Spread Eagle Inn, Manchester Street.
Oldham is well provided with railway stations, the Lancashire and Yorkshire Company having three—
the central station in Clegg Street, one at Werneth, and one at Mumps; and the London and North-Western
Company (for Saddleworth, etc.) one in Glodwick Road, and another in Clegg Street.
462 Çür #igturn of £antagjirt.
The fairs are on the Thursday after February 14, May 2, July 8, the Wednesday after October 11, and
the second Monday in every month. “Oldham Wakes” are held on the last Saturday in August ; the
“Wakes” at Royton, first Saturday in August ; Shaw, the first Saturday after Old Lammas day (August 13);
and Glodwick, the first Saturday in October. -
The Victoria Market, built in 1854, was purchased by the corporation in 1865 for £10,762, exclusive
of land—it being leasehold. It has an area of 3320 square yards. It is a covered hall with iron and glass
roof, and has stalls for butchers, and shops; and amongst the wares sold in this market are fruit and
vegetables, drapery and smallwares, earthenware, etc. The principal market-day is Saturday.
LYCEUM.—The chief literary institution of the town is the Oldham Lyceum. It was originated in a very humble way by a few
young men, chiefly of the working classes, early in 1839; at first they met in a room in Henshaw Street; but the late Mr. Horatio
Nelson of Waterloo having succeeded in calling a public meeting and interesting the principal residents in the object, a subscription
was made and the Lyceum opened in a house in Queen Street in April 1839; then including a library, news and reading rooms, and
evening-classes for both sexes. During its first year its members averaged 444, mostly working people. The first exhibition under
its auspices was held in the National School, Union Street, at Christmas 1839-40. During 57 days upwards of 23,000 visitors
inspected the large collection, and it resulted in an addition to the funds of £55. At the close of its first year the library contained
714 volumes, about 200 of which had been presented by ladies and gentlemen of the town, the remainder being purchased by the
institution. In the following year female classes were established under the charge of a committee of ladies. The ladies attended
the classes in turns. A second exhibition at Christmas 1844-5 was not so successful; and the state of trade, with the long illness
and death of its excellent president Mr. Nelson, left the institution in a very unsatisfactory position, from which it was rescued by
vigorous efforts of friends. New and more central premises were obtained, and in 1845 the Lyceum was removed to Clegg Street,
near the Town-Hall, where it remained until its final removal to the present fine building. After the death of Mr. Nelson in 1846
the presidency of the Lyceum was accepted by Nathan Worthington, esq., whose energy and public spirit contributed materially
to raise the institution from its depressed condition. At the annual meeting in February 1848, Mr. Worthington retired from the
presidency, and was succeeded by the late James Platt, esq., who continued to preside over the institution until his unfortunate death
in August 1857, at which period he was also member of parliament for the borough. He conceived the idea of erecting a new
Lyceum ; and, to obtain the nucleus of a building-fund, a third exhibition on a much more extensive scale was projected, and held
in the Working Man's Hall. On the 17th July 1854 the opening ceremony was performed by the earl of Wilton. A grand
banquet was given at the Town-Hall, at which the earl of Wilton, the bishop of Manchester, and other distinguished individuals,
were present. In collecting contributions and arranging the exhibition upwards of £1000 was expended. The working expenses
averaged nearly £30 per week. The contents were insured for £25,000. As many as 9571 persons were admitted, and as much as
£300 taken at the doors in a single week, exclusive of 1250 season-ticket holders, many of whom visited the exhibition nearly every
day. During the entire season 14,700 cheap-trip visitors passed through the rooms. The single admissions, exclusive of those by
season-tickets, amounted altogether to about 100,000. The exhibition was open 18 weeks, closing on Saturday 18th November.
The net profits of the undertaking were £2155, of which £624 was realised by a bazaar got up by the ladies of Oldham, and held
in the exhibition during the first three days of the season. With the funds thus obtained the directors immediately set about the
new building, from the plans gratuitously supplied by N. G. Pennington, esq., of Manchester. The foundation-stone was laid on the
25th of June 1855, by the president, James Platt, esq., assisted by the Oldham brethren of the Ancient Order of Freemasons;
Lord Stanley, Dr. Waughan, and other eminent friends of education, were present, and quite a demonstration of public sympathy
was made on the occasion. After the stone was laid a banquet was held in the Town-Hall, at which subscriptions to the building-
fund, amounting to £1500, were announced. These were afterwards augmented to £1920. The building, furniture, additions to
the library, etc., cost about £6500. It was opened with another demonstration on Monday, September 22, 1856, the ceremony
being performed by the president, who was again supported by Lord Stanley and others of note. On removing to the new building,
the directors arranged with the proprietors of the Queen Street Subscription Library for the transfer to the Lyceum of the whole of
their books, etc. The president also, with his usual generosity, presented the institution with the Butterworth Library. Mr.
Platt was succeeded in the office of the President of the Lyceum by J. G. Blackburne, esq., F. G. S. During 1858 an unsuccessful
attempt was made to set afoot a subscription for the liquidation of the debt upon the building. At the annual meeting on January
27, 1859, John Platt, esq., M.P., offered to give £500 toward the projected liquidation-fund, on condition that £2000 more
could be obtained in the course of the year. The amount was raised, and before the annual meeting in January 1860, the mortgage
and interest were paid off, and the institution set once more free from all its liabilities. The amount of the donation obtained by
this last effort was £2537, which, with the £1920 subscribed to the original building-fund, made the generous offerings of the
public towards this noble institution into a grand total of £4458. The present handsome building is one of the chief architectural
ornaments of the town. It is well situated in Union Street, and contains in the basement two large rooms for evening-classes; on
the principal floor in front, a good room for the library, which numbers about 7300 volumes; and a spacious news-room ; and
behind the library a reading-room, with magazines and periodicals. On the first floor are the lecture-room, which is already found
to be too small for the wants of the subscribers, a club-room, the directors' room, and two private class-rooms; on the second floor
a billiard-room and a large class-room ; on the third floor, a chemical laboratory with ante-room ; and in the cupola which crowns
the building is placed a fine telescope.
SoHoo L OF SCIENCE AND ART.-In 1863 John Platt, esq., offered to present to the Lyceum an adequate stock of models,
objects, and apparatus for a school of science and art, such stock to be the permanent property of the Lyceum, on condition that
the directors undertook to afford all the facilities they could to persons in the district, whether members of the Lyceum or not, who
might wish to avail themselves of the advantages of the school. He further promised to engage a first-class master, and to pay
whatever was required, in excess of the fees, to the master. In consequence of this munificent offer, a School of Science and Art, in
connection with the Lyceum, was erected. Classes in mechanical and machine drawing, freehand drawing, chemistry, etc., have
been established under efficient teachers, and the results, as shown by the government science examination, have exceeded the
expectations of the committee. In 1866 one gold and two silver medals were awarded to students in this school, and in 1867 three
bronze medals have been awarded. The building, a handsome one of Ornamental brick with stone dressings, in one storey, adjoins
the Lyceum, with which it has internal communication through a spacious room, common to both, which is at present occupied as a
branch library, wherein are deposited the extensive series of patent specifications. The School of Science and Art occupies two spacious
rooms, one of which, for students in geometrical and mechanical drawing, is well attended by working men, every student having
a flexible gas-jet with shade, and every convenience ; and it is in this part of the school that the prizes have been won. The other,
for the higher departments of art, freehand drawing from the flat and the figure, landscape, perspective, etc., is not so flourishing,
and does not seem to attract so many pupils. Instruction is given, both in science and art, by lectures and by day and evening
classes. The accounts of the Lyceum for the year ended December 31, 1866, show receipts £734; the expenditure leaving a balance
in the treasurer's hands of £18. The School of Science and Art for the same year expended £94 (including £30 paid to the Lyceum)
leaving a balance due to the treasurer of £28.
The Werneth Mechanics' Institution, established April 1861, has a library of more than 500 volumes, news and reading room,
club and Smoke room, with chess and draughts ; and instruction is given in classes to both sexes. The “Glodwick Mutual
5
39 umbren of $alfort—3}restintch-cum-Gluijam #arisiſ. 463
Improvement Society's Institution,” erected in 1857, has a large lecture-room 33 by 27 feet, which is let for tea-parties, etc. The
institution is for giving a good sound education to young people, and has a news-room and library with more than 400 volumes.
The Working Man's Hall, Horsedge Street, was erected in 1844 by the shareholders, chiefly working men. Its hall (which may be
hired for meetings, lectures, concerts, tea-parties, etc.) is 30 by 20 yards, and has a platform with spacious gallery, holding altogether
more than 2000 persons. The Temperance Hall, also in Horsedge Street, is 54 by 39 feet, and may be hired for similar purposes.
The Cooperative Hall, King Street, is 75 by 55 feet, and can accommodate upwards of .1600 persons. It is provided with boilers
and other special accommodations for tea-parties. The Oldham Analytic Literary Institution, Back Church Street, Greenacres
Moor, is for the education of the working-people of both sexes in evening classes. It has also a library, news, reading, and draughts
I’OOIOS.
Amongst various institutions in Oldham are the following:—Religious, Benevolent, and Educational : Auxiliary Bible and
Tract Societies, Evangelical Organisation, Town Mission, Wesleyan Clothing Society, two Ragged Schools, Catholic Young Men's
Society, Baptist Educational Institute, Young Men's Christian Union, four or five Mutual Improvement Societies, a Youths' Seminary,
a Young Men's Institution, etc. Temperance Society: a Band of Hope, two Seminaries, etc. Science: a Geological Society, and a
Botanical Society and Library.
The Oldham Regiment of Rifle Volunteers is classed as the 31st Lancashire Regiment. It has four companies, each with a
captain, lieutenant, and ensign. It is commanded by a major, has its head-quarters at Intake, and its shooting-range at Chadderton.
This corps and the 23d Lancashire Rifle Volunteers (Ashton-under-Lyne) are consolidated into and form the 7th Administrative
Battalion, which has an adjutant.
LOCAL EVENTS AND OCCURRENCES.
In the Seventeenth Century.—Trust-deed of the Grammar-School, dated 15th May 1606. Rev.R.Constantineejected from the curacy
24th August 1662. William Ashton (aged 21), of Chadderton Hall, killed in a duel, March 17, 1664. Friends' Meeting-House,
Heyside, opened, 20th January 1680. Working coal-mines in Oldham commenced in December 1695. The old chapel at Greenacres
opened, 13th May 1699. Jane Houghton, aged 41, mother of twenty-one children, buried 30th September 1700. In the Eighteenth
Century. —Six new bells in the old church first rung, 4th March 1722. Hailstones 2% inches in circumference fell at Fowleach, 23d.
June 1726. Only forty houses in Oldham, 1730. Riots from dearness of bread, 28th July 1749. Shock of an earthquake felt,
April 2, 1750. A riotous mob go from Oldham to Manchester and fight there, November 15, 1757; and on the 20th John Newton
of Failsworth was shot in a tree at Manchester by the mob. The Oldham Musical Society established, 18th January 1764. Sir
Ralph Assheton, bart., the last of his race, died, 1766. Only a population of 400 in Oldham in 1766. Thomas Dendy murdered at
Hollinwood, 27th October 1768. First Sunday school opened, 27th November 1783. Mr. Worthington of Werneth murdered at
Miles Platting, 29th March 1788. Earthquake felt in Oldham, March 6, 1790. Bull-bait in Maygate Lane, 1791. Riots at Royton,
1794. Mobs attack bakers' shops, 30th July 1795. The Crime Valley inundated; the water 18 yards deep, two houses immersed,
31st August 1796. 177 persons from Hollinwood confirmed at Manchester, 17th August 1799.
In the Nineteenth Century.—1801. Hollinwood reservoir commenced, and finished in 1802, 1801, February 7. James Platt
robbed and murdered at Dolstile. September 1. Rushcart riots, six imprisoned. 1803, April 25. Hesketh and Olivia Ogden and
child found murdered at Lime House, Hollinwood. May 6. Robert Walker (“Tim Bobbin the Second”) died, aged 75. Septem-
ber 19. The volunteers first assemble. Hollinwood Common taken in. 1804, May 6. The first Oldham volunteers receive their
colours. 1807, April 16. Mount Pleasant Mill burned down. , 1809, April 22. Two persons of Crompton hung at Lancaster for
forgery. , 1810, January 1. The Theatre, Eagle Street, opened. 1812, April 20. Serious riots at Middleton; one killed, many
wounded. In May, at Oldham, flour was 6s, the dozen lbs., oatmeal 5s., and bread 4}d. a lb. April 24, Wroe and Duncuff’s (of
Hollinwood) mill, at Westhoughton, burnt down by a riotous mob. Three men and a boy executed for this, June 11. 1813, July
26. A dreadful storm. 1815, April 22. John Wood, of Compster Hill, hung (at Chester) for housebreaking. 1816, September 6.
Fourteen persons baptized in Hollinwood reservoir. 13. Reform meeting at Bent Grange. 1817, March 28. Some persons charged
with treason seized at Oldham. June 4. Only one printer at Oldham (J. Clarke). 1819, September 7. John Lees died of wounds
received at Peterloo. 1820, April 24, Riots between the military and the people, 1822, October 30. Rejoicing at Henry Hunt's
liberation ; an ox roasted. 1826, May 1. A mob collected at Greenacres Moor to destroy power-looms. November 21. The
Privey mill burned. , 1827, March 3. Oldham shops first lighted with gas. 25. Gas first supplied by a company. May 22.
Twenty-six turn-outs imprisoned. 1828. June 25. Water supplied by a company. August 31. The streets first lighted with gas.
1830, June 28. Arrival of the new peal of twelve bells. July 25. They were formally opened. The first peal of eight was rung
August 27, and the first full peal of twelve, September 2. December 23. Sarah M'Climnon found murdered on Roman Road, Hollin.
wood. 1831, March 14. The Worralls executed for the murder at Failsworth. 1832, June 7. Oldham created a parliamentary
borough. 1833, November 10. The New Town mill burned down. 1834, April 15. The Bankside riots; John Bentley shot. His
funeral, on the 20th, was attended by 2000 people. June 28. The Union mill burned down ; fifteen lives lost and seven hurt.
1835, June 18. William Cobbett, M.P. for Oldham, died. 1836, February 1. Robert Tinker, forty years proprietor of “Tinker's
Gardens,” Manchester, died. November 28. Five thousand one hundred factory hands locked out. 1837, April 3. The cotton-
spinners' turn-out ended ; 3800 persons unemployed. 1838, September 5. Old John Knight, the radical, died ; at his funeral, on
the 9th, 2000 people were present. November 8. Political meeting by torch-light. 1840, March 25. Eight hundred and forty chil-
dren baptized at St. Peter's chapel, and all registered gratuitously, April 16. The corner-stone of the Town-Hall laid. 184i, July
2. Explosion at Rhodes Bank ; three Garforths killed. July 6. Oldham became a post-town. 1842, August 24, Riots at Albion
and Greenbank mills. 1843. February 17. Barracks established in Lord Street. ... March 13. “Billy Barnes,” violinist, died; 250
violinists attended his funeral. 1844. October 31. Fall of Radcliffe and Sons' mill; twenty persons killed. 1845, August 25: A
rushcart at Failsworth drawn by twelve horses. 1846, November 14. Rhodes mill burnt down. 1848, March 20. Great Chartist
meeting on Oldham Edge. April 19. Edwin Butterworth, local historian, died, aged 36. 1849, May 29. John Fielden, esq., M.P.,
Oldham, died. 1850, October 9. Explosion at Bent Grange coal-pit ; sixteen lives lost. 1852, February 23. Boiler explosion at
Diamond mill, Whitehead Lane. 1853, May 9. Severe snow-storm for twelve hours. July 1. Explosion at Bent Grange coal-pits;
twenty lives lost. 1854, September 25. Public baths opened. 1855, January 25. Wallshaw mills burnt down. September 22.
Fall of a cotton-mill at Shaw. October 8. First stone laid of the Victoria Market. October 30. Diabolical attempt on the life of
Isaiah Graves with a hand-grenade. 1856, January 17. Victoria Market rearing-dinner. June 28. Opening of the reservoir at
Beesom Clough. October 5. Waterspout and storm at Shaw. 1857, August 1. Chadderton and Greenacres cemeteries opened ;
consecrated the 20th. August 27. James Platt, esq., M.P., Oldham, accidentally shot at Greenfield. At his funeral, September
2, all the shops were closed. 1858, February 2. Rev. J. Holme, incumbent of Hollinwood forty-nine years, died, aged 80. February
2. Colliery explosion at the Diamond pit, Bardsley ; fifty-four lives lost. November 22. Dinner given to turn-out colliers; an ox
roasted on Curzon ground, and £52 : 6:9 collected for them in pennies. 1859, November 5. Fire at Milne and Dawson's mill.
November 23. A ragged school opened. November 29. First public meeting to establish a rifle corps. December 6. A steam
traction-engine passed through the town. 1863, December. Discovery of more than sixty pit-shafts at Werneth; supposed to be
an ancient pottery, 1864, October 1. Rev. Thomas Sturges Mills, a county magistrate, died. 1865, August 28. Opening of the
Alexandra Park, Oldham. 1867, August. The large cottom-mill of Mr. Robert Fitton, Turf Lane, near Oldham, was destroyed by
fire, with the machinery, consisting of 56 carding-engines and preparations and 50,000 spindles. A quantity of yarn in an adjoin-
ing warehouse, value £50,000, was saved. Damage estimated at £40,000, partly covered by insurances. -
464 (The 39tgtorg of £antagüirº.
The Oldham Poor-Law Union includes eight townships—Alkrington, Chadderton, Crompton, Middleton,
Oldham, Royton, Thornham, and Tonge. The Union Workhouse is in Royton Road. The board of guardians
(twenty ea officio and nineteen elected for the several townships) meet at the Union Workhouse every Wed-
nesday. There are three committees—house, finance, and assessments. The Union is divided into four
districts for out-door relief. Each township has its overseers and assistant-overseer, and there are nine collectors
of poor-rates, a Superintendent, a deputy, and six other registrars of births and deaths.
There were in this chapelry (in 1832) not fewer than thirty-eight Sunday schools, giving instruction to
8417 children of both sexes.
There is no regular market-day here, but Saturday is observed as a kind of vegetable and flesh market.
There are three annual fairs for cattle, horses, sheep, and peddlery, two of them stationary, and the third
movable ; the fixed fairs are on the 2d of May and the 8th of July, and the movable fair is on the first
Wednesday after the 12th of October. The wakes, instituted by the Druids, are still held in the following
villages, in the chapelry of Oldham, not as religious festivals, but as modern feasts:–Oldham, Grains,
Hollinwood, Royton, and Shaw.
By the Reform Act of 1832 Oldham was erected into a borough, and invested with the privilege of
returning two members to parliament ; and by the act 2 and 3 Will. IV. cap. 64, “the several townships of
Oldham, Chadderton, Crompton, and Royton,” are comprehended in this borough. The parliamentary
borough of Oldham is one of the largest in the county, second only to Clitheroe. The areas of its townships
are—Oldham, 4617; Chadderton, 2978 ; Crompton, 2864; and Royton, 1352 statute acres. Total area of
the parliamentary borough, 11,811 statute acres, or upwards of 18 square miles. In 1861 the population of
the parliamentary borough was 94,337, and in 1867 it was probably upwards of 100,000. The rateable
value of its property was £200,973. The following are the elections since the Reform Act of 1832 —
OLDHAM.—TWO MEMBERS.
ELECTORS IN 1832, 1131.-IN 1865, 2365.
Elections. JElections.
1832. Dec. William Cobbett . $ * (L.) 677 1852. July J. M. Cobbett. * g * (L.) 957
John Fielden . g & o (L.) 645 John Duncuft * £ . (L. C.) 868
B. Heywood Bright. ag g (L.) 150 W. Johnson Fox . * q (L.) 777
William Burge wº g * (c.) 101 - -
George Stephen g tº g (L.) 3 On decease of Mr. Duncuft:
tº-º-º-º-º-º-º-º-º- 1852. Dec. W. Johnson Fox . º * (L.) 895
1835. Jan. John Fielden . . ſº º (L.) James Heald . . . . (L. C.) 783
William Cobbett . g º (L.) º-º-º-º:
On decease of Mr. Cobbett: 1857. March. J. M. Cobbett. g 3. * (L.) 949
1835. July J. Frederick Lees . e * (c.) 394 James Platt . * * . (L. C.) 934
J. M. Cobbett . * * e (L.) 381 W. Johnson Fox . o tº (L.) 898
Feargus O’Connor . . (CHARTIST) 32 ---
--- On decease of Mr. Platt :
1837. Jan. General W. A. Johnson . e (L.) 545 1857. Oct. W. Johnson Fox . 9 tº (L.) 1039
John Fielden . g tº g (L.) 541 J. M. Cobbett . g e & (L.) 966
Joseph Jones . * * º (C.) 315 John T. Hibbert . • & (L.) 955
J. Frederick Lees . g g (C.) 279 * -
*...*-º-º-º-º- On Mr. Fox's acceptance of Chiltern
1841. June General W. A. Johnson . g (L.) Hundreds:
John Fielden . te g º (L.) John T. Hibbert . g & (L.)
1847. Aug. W. Johnson Fox . º * (L.) 725 1865. July John T. Hibbert . & e (L.) 1105
John Duncuft . & e . (L. C.) 694 John Platt . * & . (L. C.) 1076
J. M. Cobbett . sº º º (L.) 624 John Morgan Cobbett . * (L.) 898
John Fielden . g ſº ſº (L.) 612 F. L. Spinks . º gº º (c.) 845
Originally it was intended to limit the borough of Oldham to the township of that name, and to confine
the elective franchise to the return of one member ; but in consequence of a strong representation made to
his majesty's ministers by a memorial from the churchwardens, overseers, and constables of the townships of
Royton, Chadderton, and Crompton, in the progress of the Reform Bill, it was determined to include these
three townships, and to give to the borough so enlarged two members instead of one. The memorial
represented that the population of Royton, Chadderton, and Crompton amounted to 18,132 persons; that there
were 30 large cotton-manufactories and 17 collieries, together giving employment to 3919 persons, besides
many employed in hat-making establishments and other public works; that the poor-rates for the last year
amounted to £31.52: 12: 6, exclusive of church and highway rates, and the county rate amounted to
f685 : 10s. for the same period; that there were 3250 houses, and that of these there were 551 houses worth
#10 per annum and upwards.
The town of OLDHAM is situated on an eminence near the source of the Irk, and is washed on the east
by a branch of the Medlock. These streams formerly contributed in a material degree to the manufacturing
prosperity of the place, and they are still of considerable utility; but the general introduction of steam-
#umbren of $alfort—#restinity-cum-9ſuffam. 33arígí, 465
engines has diminished the necessity for water-power, and supplied its place by a more potent and unfailing
agency.’ - -
§ RoyTON.—This township extends to the north of Oldham, and, though the least of the dependent town.
ships, comprising 1352 acres, it contains a population of 7493 inhabitants. The village is situated in a deep
valley, and is rapidly assuming the form of a regular town. There is here a small Episcopal chapel, dedicated
to St. Paul, erected in the year 1754, on land presented by Thomas Percival, esq. of Royton Hall, for that
purpose. There is also a Methodist chapel, built in 1806. The ancient family of the Radcliffes, descended
from Nicholas Fitz-Gilbert de Radcliffe, youngest brother of Fitz-Gilbert, the 4th baron of Kendal (which
Nicholas held possessions in Oldham of his nephew William, the first lord of Lancaster), was seated at Royton
Hall. This family became connected by intermarriages through successive ages with many of the principal
families in the county of Lancaster. The Byron family, ancestors of the poet, obtained possession of the
Royton estate by grant from Edward II, in 1301, which they retained till 1662, when Richard, the 2d Lord
Byron, sold Royton to Thomas Percival of Manchester, merchant, and of Gorton. He died in 1693, leaving
his estate to his son Richard, whose granddaughter, Catherine Percival, the heiress of the estate, became in
1763 the first wife of Joseph Pickford, esq. of Alt Hill, in the parish of Ashton-under-Lyne (afterwards Sir
Joseph Radcliffe, bart.) The estate descended to her only son, William Percival Pickford, esq., who, dying
without issue in 1815, devised it to his father Sir Joseph, who thus became possessed of Royton, and whose
grandson, Sir Joseph Radcliffe, bart. of Milnes Bridge House, Yorkshire, succeeded his grandfather in 1819,
and now possesses the property. The ancient mansion is now falling into decay. In Plumpton and
Plumpton Clough, a woody glen, one of the endless forests of remote times, we find the remains of an iron
forge, supposed to be the work of the Saxons, encircled by heaps of scoria. At Turf Lane-End, in this
township, stands a Friends' meeting-house, which, being erected in the year 1665, soon after the opening of
the mission of the venerable George Fox, in Manchester, may be ranked amongst the first places of public
worship dedicated to the use of that religious community in Lancashire.
CHADDERTON is situated to the west of Oldham, and forms a right angle with the township of Royton.
Elias de Penilbury held in thanage for 12s. of King John or Henry III. nine bovates of land in Chadeswrth',
as it is called in the Testa de Nevill, and in the township bearing his own name.” The early history of the
township of Chaderton is chiefly distinguished for its two ancient mansions, Fox Denton Hall and Chadderton
Hall, and for the families by whom they were occupied and possessed. At the period when the liberties of
England began to assume a settled character both these mansions were enjoyed by the Traffords; but soon
after Magna Charta was granted by King John to the demands of his barons, Richard de Trafford conferred
the lordship and Inanor of Chadderton upon his second son Geoffrey, who assumed the name of Chadderton,
and whose son Henry, it appears from a roll of pleas in the Record Office at the Chapter House, Westminster,
of the date of 20 Edward I. (1292), had to encounter a claim set up by his kinsman, Henry de Trafford, to
recover the manor of Chadderton, on the plea that their common grandfather Richard de Trafford was “non
compos mentissue” when he devised this possession to his second son. This plea was overruled and the
possession confirmed in accordance with the will of the testator." Geoffrey's great-granddaughter Margaret
having married John de Radcliffe, rector of Bury and grandson of William Radcliffe of Smithells, he became
seised of the manors jure uſcoris, and was living there 25th June, 22 Richard II. (1308-9). On the death of
his descendant, Richard Radcliffe, esq., in 1436, the estates were divided among his three co-heiresses, the
second of whom, Johanna, married in 32 Henry VI. (1453-4), Edmund, second son of Sir Thomas Ashton of
Ashton, who thus became possessed of the Hall and a third part of the manor. These were sold by his
descendant, the Rev. William Ashton, B.D., about 1690, to Joshua Horton of Sowerby, Co. York, esq.,
and passed in marriage with his representative Henrietta Susanna Anne (who died 29th December 1827),
only child of Sir Watts Horton, bart., to Charles Rhys of Kilmaenllwyd, Co. Caermarthen, esq., the present
owner. The south front of the house was added about the middle of the eighteenth century by Sir William
Horton. The oak staircase of the time of Charles II., with double-twisted rails, is very handsome. The
hall contains many neglected portraits of the Horton family." In the reign of Henry VIII. a court was held
at Chadderton before Ralph Standisshe, Edmund Ashton, and Thomas Radcliffe, esq.S., in the rolls of which
are lists of all the free-tenants of each of the lords in Glodyght. Chadderton Hall is now sharing the fate of
Royton Hall. This mansion had the honour to be the birthplace of Dr. Laurence Chaderton, who lived at
the period of the Reformation, and was amongst the number of the principal reformers.
LAURENCE CHADERTON, D.D., the first master of Emmanuel College, Cambridge, was the second son of Mr. Thomas
Chaderton, gentleman, of Lees Hall, and born on the 14th of September 1536. His father and mother being strict Catholics, he
1 The following are the census returns in 1851 as to the places of Huntingdon's Connection 1, 438; New Church 2, 234 ; undefined
worship and sittings in Oldham in that year :—Church of England 3, 600; Roman Catholics 1,490 ; Latter-Day Saints 2, 150.
17, 12,689 sittings ; Independents 9, 3580; Baptists 4, 1170; * Testa de Wevill, fol. 405. -
Society of Friends 1, 155 ; Unitarians 1, 188; Moravians 1,484; * Rot. Placit. apud Lanc. An. 20 Edward I.
Wesleyan Methodists 10, 3968; Methodist New Connection 1,442; * Note by the Rev. Canon Raines in the Wotitia Cestriensis, ii.
Primitive Methodists 8, 2301; Wesleyan Association 5, 638; Lady 113.
3 O
466 Qſìjt #istory ºf 3Lancagüirº,
was brought up in that religion, and received his early education at home; but, making a very indifferent progress, it was
determined to place him under the Superintendence of a more experienced instructor; and this was no other than Laurence Waux,
a rigid papist, Bachelor of Divinity of Oxford, and Warden of Manchester College. Under this man's tuition he quickly redeemed
his lost years, made a rapid advancement, and was speedily fitted for the University. In 1562 he went to Cambridge, where,
having made some acquaintance in Christ's College, he was admitted a student, and, after having prosecuted his studies for some
time with unwearied diligence, was first led to doubt the infallibility of the doctrines of the Church of Rome. Possessed of very
strong mental powers, he examined carefully the arguments on both sides, soon came to a decision, and embraced the Protestant
faith. As soon as his father heard of his apostasy he counselled him to quit the University, and to give up his study of divinity;
urging him to remove to one of the Inns of Court, where a handsome annual stipend should await his acceptance. This tempting
offer he steadfastly declined; and his father, enraged at his obstinacy, now sent him a purse with a groat in it, and recommended
him to beg for his livelihood, for that he should disinherit him, a threat which he afterwards actually carried into execution, by
devising his estates to the Radcliffe family. Young Chaderton, however, was not to be thus dissuaded from the course he had
chosen, but applied himself with greater ardour and perseverance, and, on the 23d of January 1567 took his degree of Bachelor of
Arts. He was soon after elected a Fellow of his College, in preference to other candidates, who were his seniors in the University;
and, on the 8th of August 1568, was ordained Deacon by Dr. Nicholas Bullingham, bishop of Lincoln, made minister of St.
Clement's Church, in Cambridge, and appointed public Lecturer of the University. On the 30th of March 1571, he was admitted
to the degree of Master of Arts, and made Tutor of Christ's College. His fame as a critic in the Greek and Hebrew tongues was
now at its height, and his intimate acquaintance with the writings of the fathers was universally known and acknowledged. To
these accomplishments, moreover, was added a familiar knowledge of the French, Spanish, and Italian languages; and as such
qualification could not fail of being duly estimated by the University, his lectures and logic attracted a great concourse of hearers.
In 1578 he received the degree of Bachelor of Divinity; and on the 26th of October in that year preached a sermon at Paul's Cross
which was afterwards printed. In 1581 he sustained a long and sharp controversy with Dr. Peter Baro, the Margaret Professor of
Divinity, on the subject of justification. He opposed the professor's doctrines of universal redemption, and preached publicly
against his tenets. Baro cited him before the vice-chancellor and heads of houses by arguments written in his defence, which
Chaderton learnedly and acutely answered. He had now for some time enjoyed a close intimacy with Sir Walter Mildmay,
formerly his pupil, and afterwards chancellor of the exchequer, who consulted him on his projected foundation of a new college,
and proposed to him the acceptance of the first mastership. In the meantime Chaderton had received some very considerable offers
of preferment which the importunity of his friends had nearly persuaded him to accept ; he, however, first communicated the
circumstance to Sir Walter, who, perceiving he should thereby lose the benefit of his co-operation and assistance in the new
foundation, plainly declared that “unless he consented to take upon himself the mastership, the college should not proceed.” He
was accordingly nominated first master of Emmanuel College in 1584. He soon after married, and during the building of the
college lived, with his family and servants, in the house of his intimate friend and neighbour, Whitaker, then Regius Professor of
Divinity, and shortly afterwards master of St. John's. In the third year of the reign of James I. he was chosen one of the five
divines for managing the cause of the Puritans at the conference at Hampton Court; and was afterwards named by that sovereign a
commissioner for translating the Bible. In 1612, on the visit to the University of his highness Frederick, prince palatine, who
married the lady Elizabeth, daughter of James I., at the king's express command, and at the earnest entreaty of the prince, he
received the degree of Doctor of Divinity, an honour he had hitherto studiously declined ; and, regretting that the founder of
Emmanuel had provided for only three fellows, made such application among his friends and acquaintance as very soon enabled him
to endow twelve fellowships and more than forty scholarships ; and also to procure some rich church livings to be attached to the
college, among which were the perpetual advowsons of the rectories of Auler and North Cadberry, and the vicarages of Dulverton in
Somersetshire, Piddle Hilton in Dorsetshire, and Loughborough in Leicestershire, which last was presented by Henry Hastings,
earl of Huntingdon, an intimate friend of Chaderton's. In 1618 he resigned the office of lecturer, and soon after his ministry at
St. Clement's, which last he had held for upwards of fifty years, being all that time a constant and regular preacher. On the 26th
of October 1622, when Arminian doctrines were prevalent, dreading the chance of having for his successor a man imbued with
those principles, after a government of thirty-eight years he resigned his mastership of Emmanuel in favour of Dr. Preston, but
survived him, and lived to see Drs. Sancroft and Holdsworth hold the same office. In his retirement he rose early to study, and
read largely such authors as were adapted to that preparation which almost entirely engrossed his thoughts; and, having in his
younger days imbibed a passion for botany, relaxed occasionally from severer studies by amusing himself with the pursuit of that
favourite employment: it is even said, indeed, on good authority, that the gardens of Emmanuel and Christ's Colleges were planted
and adorned by his hand. Of a robust and vigorous constitution, he always possessed a large share of health ; and preserving his
memory and senses perfect to his last days, could readily distinguish the smallest points of the Hebrew Bible. He lived to the
extreme age of a hundred and three, and dying at Cambridge on the 16th of November 1640 was buried in St. Andrew's church.
His remains were afterwards removed to the chapel of his own college, where, in the cloisters, is an inscription placed to his
memory. In his opinions Dr. Chaderton favoured the tenets of Calvin ; and at the conference at Hampton Court even pressed
for an indulgence. He was a man of acknowledged piety, benevolence, and learning; and was held in great reverence, not only at
Cambridge, but in Lancashire also, where he occasionally visited and preached. He had a plain but effectual address, and generally
carried conviction into the hearts of those whom he undertook to teach. He was married fifty-three years, and left one daughter,
the wife of Archdeacon Johnson. .
He wrote “De Justificatione coram Deo, et Fidei Justificantis Perseverantiã non intercisã,” printed at Leyden, 8vo.—“Annotationes
ad Biblia Bombergi,” in Emmanuel Coll. Library, in MS.—“A Volume of Sermons.”—“Praelectiones Logicae.”—“De Coená Domini.”—
“De Oratione Dominica.”—“The Controversy with Baro:”—and “A Sermon on Matt. vii. 22, 23.” Lond. 1580, 8vo. There is a Latin
Life of Chaderton, written by Dr. Dillingham, and printed at Cambridge in 1700, 12mo, with the life of Archbishop Usher. The original
MS. is in the Harleian Miscel. No. 7352. -
The estate of Lees continued in the family of Chadderton until the death of Mr. George Chadderton in
1675, when it passed by devise to Henry Lyon, gentleman, Peter Plumpton, gentleman, and Denton,
gentleman, as heirs-at-law. Lees Hall was the residence of the Lyons from this time until the death of
Nicholas John Lyon, esq., in 1771, when it was sold to John Lees, esq., whose grandson is the present owner.
The Hall is now divided into cottages. Bent Hall, now used as a hat-warehouse, is the property of Mr. Clegg."
There is no existing record, written or traditional, of any great battle fought in Chadderton, but one of
those tumuli, raised on the remains of departed warriors, rears its head in the lawn, near the front door of the
Hall, and seems to indicate that this has been a scene of some considerable military operation. This tumulus
has been materially reduced, and a number of ancient relics have been found here. -
CROMPTON, the most northern part of the chapelry, has the largest population of any of the townships
* Notitia Cestriensis, note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 116.
Bumrºn of Salford—prºstinity-cum-Olhãam parish. 467
associated with Oldham; and its growth in numbers and in trade has fully kept pace with the other parts of
this flourishing district. A bleak situation and somewhat sterile soil have produced a race of hardy and
laborious men, and the close connection with Saddleworth has given to the people much of the manners and
character which prevail in these hilly regions. An ancient free chapel, belonging to the Establishment, stands
at Shaw, in this township, which was twice enlarged and re-edified during the last century. Crompton Hall, in
East Crompton, was the residence of Hugh de Crompton, son of Simon de la Legh, in 30 Henry I. (1129-30),
and of his descendants until 1666, when it was sold in consequence of the losses of the family in the civil
wars. It has been re-purchased by a collateral descendant of the family, and a new house built.”
The principal part of the land in the chapelry is now (1832) enclosed. The soil is extremely variable,
and by no means capable of raising a sufficiency of food to supply the wants of the inhabitants. The land is
principally in grass, but there is a considerable quantity of potatoes grown, and some corn-crops. The district
is bare of wood, though timber might be planted in many situations, particularly on the sides of the hills, that
would yield both profit, shelter, and ornament.
1. Notitia, Cestriensis, note by the Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 114,
468 Qſìje ??igturn ºf £ancashire.
f MIDDLETON PARISH.
6) is stated to contain 11,903 statute acres of land, within which the following eight townships
㺠are comprised:—
Area in Acres. | Population in 1861. Area in Acres. | Population in 1861.
Ainsworth [Chapelry] 1296 1803 ! Great Lever . & 770 722
Ashworth [Chapelry] I022 233 | Middleton . * 1908 9876
Birtle-cum-Bamford I388 2350 Pilsworth º * 1478 343
Hopwood * * 2043 2281 Thornham . g 1998 2027
Of these Middleton and Thornham are townships in the Oldham Poor-Law Union; Ashworth, Ainsworth, Birtle-cum-Bamford,
Hopwood, and Pilsworth in the Bury Union ; and Great Lever in Bolton Union. The population of the old parish of Middleton
in 1861 was 19,635. The town of Middleton comprises the township of that name and the adjacent township of Tonge (in the
parish of Prestwich), which has an area of 367 statute acres ; the population of Tonge in 1861 was 4606, making the population of
the town of Middleton 14,482.
The manor of Middleton was, in very remote times, annexed to the Honor of Clithero, and held by the
powerful family of De Lacy, earls of Lincoln. In the reign of Henry III. it was held by the family “de
Midelton,” under the earls of Lincoln, as parcel of the Honor of Tottington. In 3 Edward II. (1309-10), the
manor of Middleton is found in the inquisition post mortem of Henry de Lacy, amongst the fees belong-
ing to the manor of Totingtone, held, by service, of Thomas, earl of Lancaster." With Henry, earl of
Lincoln, this branch of the Lacies passed away, and their possessions in this county, by marriage with his
daughter and heiress, devolved upon Thomas Plantagenet, earl of Lancaster.” In Birche's MS. Feodarium it is
said that the earl, in right of his wife Alicia, held the manors of Bury, Middleton, and Chadderton,
and which Alicia and her ancestors, earls of Lincoln, held manors in West Derby, and so of the Honor
of Lancaster, by the homage and service of 20s. for ward of Lancaster Castle, and 20s. 8d. for sak fee at the
four terms, for Bury, 8d. ; Middleton, 13s. 4d. ; and for Chadderton, 3s. On the accession of the dukes of
Tancaster to the throne, the manor of Tottington became a royal fee, whence its name, “The Royal Manor
of Tottington,” to which the manor of Middleton, among many others, was an appurtenance.
To these great barons, the earls of Lincoln and the dukes of Lancaster, the family of Middleton were subfeodary for the manor
of that name ; “Roger of Middleton,” say the jurors of an inquest at Tottington, in 3 Edward II. (1309-10) “holdeth of the
same Earle the mannor of Middleton by the service of one halfe of k” fee, & maketh suite to the Cort' of Tottington.” The same
Roger also held the hamlet of Bolton, by homage and service, and 2s. 6d. for ward of Lancaster Castle, and the service of one-half
and the tenth part of a knight's fee at the four terms;* and he also held a carucate of land in Cheetham in chief of the king, in
thanage, for the service of 13s. 4d.” In 16 Edward II. (1322-23) Roger de Middleton and Agnes his wife possessed the manor of
Middleton and common of pasture in Bury, or, as it is termed in the inquisition, of Bura." Agnes survived, and conveyed the
manor in her widowhood to John de Barton and his wife Matilda, who seems to have been a daughter of Roger de Middleton ; in
whose family it continued till the year 1438, when it was conveyed by Margery, daughter of John Barton and heiress of her uncle
Richard Barton, esq., in marriage to Sir Raphe Assheton, knt., only son of Sir John Assheton of Assheton, by his second wife
Margaret, daughter of Sir John Byron of Clayton. In this family it continued in the male line until the death of Sir Raphe
Assheton, bart., in 1765, when it passed by marriage, with Mary his daughter and co-heiress, to Harbord Harbord, esq., created
Baron Suffield of Suffield, Co. Norfolk, in 1786; in whose representative the manor, advowson, and township are now vested." '
The Sir Rafe Assheton who married Margaret Barton was knight-marshal of England in the reign of King Edward IV., and
was the Black Knight of Assheton-under-Lyne, when the ancient annual ceremony, still celebrated in that place, was instituted.
In the last year of Edward IV. (1482-83), Sir Rafe fought under the command of Richard duke of Gloucester, the king's brother,
at Huldonfield, in Scotland, and was made banneret on the field for his gallant services. When Richard III. ascended the
1 Harl. MSS. cod. 2085, fo. 443. If this "be the great De Lacy 4 Birche’s MSS.
Inquisition, its true date is 16th February, 4 Edw. II. (1311).-H. 5 Ibid.
2 Rot. Chart. 22 Edw. I. num. 51. * Escaet. de Anno 16 Edw. II. num. 49. The Middleton arms
3 Ex Cartis R. Rowsthorne de Atherton ar. 1660, in Harl, MSS. were, quarterly, Gu. and Or, a cross flory on the dexter quarter, Ar.
cod. 2085, fo. 443. 7 Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by Canon Raines, ii. 96.




#umbret of $alfort--ſitbuleton 43arisiſ, 469
throne, he created Sir Rafe Assheton vice-constable of England, by his letters-patent, in 1483; and it is probable that it was while
in the exercise of the odious and unconstitutional functions awarded to him by the tyrant Richard, and not in the time of Henry
WI., that he became obnoxious. Sir Rafe's devoted attachment to the cause of the house of York was rewarded by Richard III.
with the grant of “divers manors, and other possessions, belonging to the kinge's rebells and traitors, Sir John Fogge, knt.,
Geo. Browne, knt.; and John Gulforde, knt.,” on the 12th of December 1483.4 Sir Richard Assheton, the grandson of Sir Rafe,
was one of the distinguished heroes of Flodden Field (1513), and took prisoner, on that memorable day, Sir John Forman, knight,
serjeant-porter to King James IV. of Scotland, and Alexander Barrett, high-sheriff of Aberdeen, whom he delivered to Thomas
Lord Howard, earl of Surrey, the general of the English army, and for his valorous service received the honour of knighthood from
the king, with divers privileges for his manor of Middleton. On his return, he dedicated his standard and armour to St. Leonard
of Middleton. In the early part of the seventeenth century, Ralph Assheton, esq., lord of Middleton, had a son Richard who died
young, in 1630, being supposed to be bewitched to death by one Utley, “who, for this crime was tried at the assizes at Lancaster,
and executed there.” Ralph Assheton, the father of this ill-fated youth, represented the county of Lancaster in the long parlia-
ment, and was commander-in-chief of the Lancashire forces under the Commonwealth. The Middleton club-men fought under
Colonel Ashton, at Bolton-le-Moors, in 1643, and resisted the assault of the Royalist army. After the defeat of Charles II. and the
earl of Derby, in the battle of Worcester, in 1651, the king's troops, under Lesley and Middleton, retreated into Lancashire, and
were defeated by Harrison and Lilburne at Middleton, where the Royalist generals were taken prisoners. Colonel (now become
general) Ashton, who died in 1650, was succeeded by his son, Ralph Ashton, esq., who, pursuing the same course as his relative,
Sir George Booth, bart., the representative of the Ashton-under-Lyne family, espoused the cause of Charles II., and was, after the
Restoration, created a baronet in 1660 by that monarch. This baronet was succeeded in his title and estates by his son Ralph,
whose nephew, Ralph, succeeded him in 1716, and was the last of the male line of the ancient house of Middleton; he had issue
one son, who died in his minority, and two daughters, Mary and Eleanor, the former of whom married Harbord Harbord, esq.,
afterwards Lord Suffield, son and heir of Sir William Morden Harbord, K.B., and baronet of Gunton in the county of Norfolk;
and the latter married Sir Thomas Egerton, bart., afterwards Lord Grey de Wilton, of Heaton, in this county. On the death of
Sir Ralph Assheton, on the 31st of December 1765,” the ancient seat of the manor of Middleton and the advowsons of the rectory,
together with the township and other adjoining property, came into the possession of Lord Suffield, who died in 1810, and was
succeeded in his title and possessions by his eldest son, William Asheton Harbord, who, dying without issue in 1821, was
succeeded by his only brother, Edward Baron Suffield, whose eldest son, Edward Vernon Harbord, 4th Baron Suffield, was the last
lord of his family, having sold the manor and estates of Middleton, about the year 1848, to Messrs. Peto (Sir Morton Peto) and
Betts, the great railway contractors, who are said to have been joint purchasers. The failure of this firm excited a great sensa-
tion at the time in the railway and commercial community. In July 1861 the Middleton and Thornham estates were offered for
sale. The transfer of the manor from Messrs. Peto and Betts to William Wagstaff, esq. of London, took place in the spring of
1862, and Mr. Wagstaff is the present lord of the manor of Middleton. The estates and township of Thornham were sold to the
trustees of Mr. Joseph Milne of Burnedge House, near Rochdale, by Messrs. Peto and Betts.
The parish church of Middleton, dedicated to St. Leonard, is of great antiquity, but there are no records
to fix the date of its original foundation. A church existed here in the early part of the reign of Henry
III., as “Peter, parson of Middleton,” and “Thomas, clerk of Middleton,” are attesting witnesses to the
grants of lands to Stanlaw Abbey, by Roger de Middleton, and Alan his son. In 1291 the living was
valued at £13 : 6 : 8 per annum. The arch remaining between the nave and tower of the church is con-
sidered to be a remnant of Norman architecture.” On the south side of the church is the following
inscription, which indicates both the re-builders and the date of the present fabric:-“Ricardus Assheton et
Anna uxor ejus, Anno D'ni M.D.XXIIII.” This was the grandson of Margery Barton; he died in 1545.-
Within the church are three chapels of uncertain foundation. In the south-east corner of the church is the
“Assheton Chantry,” so called in 1522, though probably founded by the Bartons. It is not enclosed, and
contains numerous monuments of the Assheton family. Part of the armour of Sir Richard Assheton, dedi-
cated by him on his return from Flodden, to “St. Leonard of Middleton,” still remains here ; also the stone
altar, with its five incised crosses.—In the north-east corner of the church is “The Rector's Chapel,” in which
the remains of many of the former incumbents are buried. In one of the windows is a fine artistic head of
an ecclesiastic ; probably a portrait of Thomas de Langley, afterwards bishop of Durham, cardinal and
chancellor of England, who founded a chantry in this church." On the south side of the church, enclosed
with rails of the period of the Restoration, is the “Hopwood Chapel,” containing a piscina, with some modern
stained glass in the windows. On the exterior wall is the letter H, which may indicate that this portion of
the fabric was built by John Hopwood, esq., about 1524. It was the burial-place of the family in the
sixteenth century. There is within this chapel or pew a marble mural monument to the memory of “Robert
Gregge Hopwood, esq. of Hopwood Hall, who died July 19, 1854, in the 81st year of his age, universally
respected and regretted.” The will of this gentleman led to litigation, and the “Hopwood Will” was one of
the Lancashire causes célèbres of modern times. The family monument and tomb is in the churchyard, on the
north side. The oak screen is of the time of Henry VIII., and contains some bold and luxuriant carving,
interspersed with the arms of alliance of the Asshetons, without much regard to heraldic propriety.” A number
of sepulchral brasses are now laid in slabs on the floor of the chancel, within the communion-rails. That next
the north represents a male and a female figure, with their coats of arms over, and beneath a Latin inscription
1 Harl. MSS. cod. 433, fo. 132.
* This Sir Raphe very materially relieved the necessities of
nearly all the old and infirm people of the township. They were
supplied with meal, broth, and broken meat, on certain days of the
week. A large ark of meal, with a wooden piggin for measure,
always stood ready to supply the accustomed dole to the appli-
cants. Some were allowed to help themselves both to meal and
broth ; but once an old woman named Dane did not notice a leg
of mutton, which slipped into her can of broth ; and she was walk-
ing off with it, when, the mutton being missed, she was followed
and the joint recovered. Notwithstanding this astounding act of
“imattention,” as she called it, the family continued to receive their
usual allowance, only they were not permitted to ladle broth for
themselves.—Notes by Samuel Bamford.
* Dr. Hibbert-Ware's History of the Collegiate Church of Man-
chester, ii. 193.
* Dr. Whitaker's History of Richmondshire, i. 46.
* Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by Canon Raines, ii. 97.
470 Qſìje Đistory of £ancashire.
to the memory of Richard Assheton, esq., lord of Middleton, and Mary, his wife, daughter of Thomas
Venables, baron of Kinderton, and their six sons, Richard, Rodolph, John, James, William, and Thomas, and
two daughters, Dorothy and Mary. The date of death is 7th November 1618, and in the 41st year of age.
The six sons are represented in one small brass, all kneeling except one, an infant in swaddling-clothes; and
the two daughters on another small brass, all on the same slab. The next slab contains brasses representing four
figures—the first of a yeoman, the second and fourth men in armour, and the third a lady. A Latin inscrip-
tion below names Alice, widow of John Lawrence, Richard Radcliffe de Tower, and Thomas Bothe de
Hackensall; so that the figures probably represent the lady and her three husbands. She died 27th March
1531. On the next slab, in the centre of the chancel, is a brass, representing an ecclesiastic in his vestments,
and holding a chalice with the sacred monogram. Beneath, another brass gives a Latin inscription to “Master
Edmund Assheton, rector of this church, who died 20th August 1522.” This is said to be the first rector
known ; but there is evidence of a Robert de Hopwood being rector, 1421-1457, a century earlier." The
slab next the south contains five small brasses. The two uppermost represent a gentleman and a lady, full
length ; the centre a coat of arms, party per pale; and two lower brasses depict the children in the usual
mode—one, seven boys; and the other, six girls. In a small arched niche in the south wall of the chancel, is
a brass to the memory of the Rev. R. C. W. Wilkinson, M.A., who died July 30, 1851, aged 52. He was
curate here. A stone slab on the floor has sculptured on it a shield, bearing the arms of the Tetlows, and
the initials I. T. Near the choir, on the south wall of the church, are three mural monuments to
members of this family. Seven or eight stone steps descend from the choir to the vestry on the south side.
Within the communion-rails is a carved-oak lectern, “in memory of Theophilus Smith, and Agnes, his
daughter,” the date of death 1843, Mr. Smith was steward to Lord Suffield, The old octagonal stone font,
which formerly stood under the west or organ gallery, has been removed to the cross aisle ; its surface has
been re-chiselled, and a carved-oak cover has an inscription, “In pious memory of Elizabeth, wife of James
Horrox, of Little Green, who deceased 11th March 1808, aged 46; this font cover is humbly offered to God
the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, in whose faith she lived and died.” The chancel has eight stalls,
four on each side, and as many seats for the choir, The organ, now in the west gallery, is to be removed to
the rector's chapel on the north side of the choir, and placed on the floor, The windows have been richly
adorned with painted glass, and there still remains, in the north windows, a group of figures representing
persons of note in the neighbourhood, to whom tradition has assigned the honour of having led the Middleton
bowmen in the battle of Flodden Field; though a discrepancy in the date, which is eight years antecedent to
the time of that battle, seems to negative the supposition. In this antique group we have the chaplain,
Henry Taylor, and the seventeen warriors, all in a kneeling posture, and each bearing on his left shoulder
his bow, with relaxed string, while his quiver, charged with arrows, is slung on his back. A mutilated
inscription, strangely transposed in repairing the window, invites the parishioners to pray “for the good
estate of Sir Richard Assheton, and those who glazed this window, and whose arms and pictures are shown
above (1505)” In the chancel-window the following arms serve to show some of the principal families,
with whom the Ashtons have intermarried, and whose dust rests with that of the lords of Middleton :-
The first of these arms is, quarterly, first and fourth grand quarters quartered ; 1st and 4th, in the first quarter, gules, a lion
passant argent; 2d and 3d, argent, plain ; second and third grand quarters, plain or, anciently borne by Massey of Dunham
Massey, which, by marriage, became the possession of Booth, earl of Warrington, and is now the seat of Grey, earl of Stamford and
Warrington. Second, argent, a cockatrice, tail nowed, sable, borne by Langley.” Third, quarterly, 1st and 4th, argent, two
bends engrailed sable, in chief, a label of three points or, for Radcliffe ; 2d and 3d, azure, a bend, gules, between three garbs or.
Fourth, quarterly, 1st and 4th, argent, a mullet sable ; 2d and 3d, ermine, on a fesse gules, three annulets or, borne by Ashton
of Middleton, brought in by Barton, whose heiress they married. Fifth, quarterly, 1st, argent, a griffin rampant, gules, for
Trafford of Trafford ; 2d, argent, on a bend azure, three garbs or, for Fitton ; 3d, argent, on a bend gules, three carbuncles or,
for Thornton (of Cheshire); 4th, or, a saltire, sable, for Helesby (of Cheshire). Sixth, argent, three bendlets gules. Evidently
intended for Byron, who now bear the bendlets enhanced. Seventh, argent, three mole-hills vert, for Tyldesley (of Holcroft).
On the floor of a niche in the north wall of this church, now covered, may be traced the outlines of an
ancient cross, said to indicate the sepulchre of a family of the name of Maud. The tower of Middleton
church is low, and surmounted by a structure of wood. There is in the Assheton chapel a remarkable monu-
ment and inscription over the commander of the Lancashire forces, Sir Ralph Assheton, and his lady, with
their effigies, dated 1650.
In the same chapel is the monument to the memory of Sir Ralph Assheton, the last of the male line of
the Middleton family, thus inscribed:—
“Near this place lie the remains of Sir Raphe Assheton, Bart., the last of the male line of the ancient house of Middleton. In the
year 1716 he succeeded his uncle, Sir Raphe Assheton, Bart, in title and estate. In 1734 he married Mary, eldest daughter of Sir
Holland Egerton, Bart. of Heaton, in this county. She died in the year 1735, having no issue. In 1739 he married Eleanor, daughter
1 See a note under the notice of the township of Hopwood, in- 14] the enrolment of a charter by Ralph Langley and Lawrence
jºra.-H. Smith to Rowland Radcliffe, of the manor of Langley, with his
- lands, tenements, rents, and appurtenances, in Middleton and Man-
2 In 11 Henry VII. we find in the Duchy Records [Bag. I. No. chester, with a confirmation of the same.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſºlittleton 43arisiſ. 471
of the Rev. John Copley of Batley, in the county of York, and rector of Thornhill in the same county, and relict of Henry Hulton, esq.
of Hulton, in the county of Lancaster; by whom he had issue one son, who died in the year 1756, in the twelfth year of his age, and two
daughters, Mary and Eleanor; the former married Harbord Harbord, esq., afterwards Lord Suffield, son and heir of Sir William Morden
Harbord, Knight of the Bath, and Baronet of Gunton in the county of Norfolk. The latter married Sir Thomas Egerton, Bart.
(afterwards Lord Grey de Wilton) of Heaton in this county. He departed this life on the 31st of December 1765, in the seventy-third
year of his age. Here are also interred the remains of the said Dame Eleanor Assheton, who closed a most exemplary life of piety and
charity on the 25th day of March 1793, aged 76 ; in pious memory of whom this monument was erected by their daughters Mary and
Eleanor.”
The stained glass which forms the ornament of the chancel-window was removed hither from an ancient
room in the rectory-house, called “The Hall.” The rectory-house is an antique structure, supported in part
by buttresses; some of the old inhabitants of the last generation remembered when it was surrounded by a
moat with a drawbridge, and a wooden bridge-house ; part of the moat remains, and in the walls of the
house loopholes for the discharge of arrows are still visible. A screen of nine compartments (including the
entrance), in bold relief, divides the nave from the chancel, on which are shields with the armorial bearings of
the Bartons, the Ashtons, the Radcliffes, the Byrons, and the Stanleys." About the middle of the eighteenth
century the body of this church was neatly pewed, and two new galleries, one to the north and the other to
the south, erected at the expense of the parishioners; and a handsome organ was added. In 1846-7
considerable improvements were judiciously made in the church by the present learned and active rector.
The chancel end was rebuilt, a new east window of five lights of richly-stained glass was presented, the floor
paved with encaustic tiles, and some finely-carved church furniture added.”
BECTORY OF MIDDLETON.—The living of Middleton is a rectory regardant of the manor, and in the
patronage of the lord of the manor, William Wagstaff, esq. Estimated value in Tax. Eccl. Pope Nicholas
#13 : 6:8; in the Liber Regis, £36; 3:11; ; in 1867, £950.
RECTORS of MIDDLETON, from the early part of the seventeenth century to the year 1867, with the dates
of the Presentations.
The earliest rector known is shown by the Hopwood evidences to have been Robert, son of Geoffrey de
Hopwood. Hè is called clerk, parson, and rector of the church of Middleton in deeds dating from 1421 to
1457. On the authority of the inscription on a brass in the chancel, we may give the name of Edmund
Assheton, as an early rector; he died in 1522. Though the Middleton registers begin in 1541, there is no
record of any rector in them till 1618, when Edward Assheton became incumbent. The following are his
SUICCéSSOTS :—
Robertus Walkeden, date of his induction . * g 1624 Richard Assheton . o º * August 5 . 1757
Abdie Assheton . & & * * . about 1629 Robert Walker . g tº * º Feb. 19 . I 801
William Assheton . tº w & g ſº tº 1644 John Haughton . tº e e e March 21 . I818
Robert Simmonds? . g & & e * © 1663 | James Archer, who had been curate 55 years, Jan. 30. I829
Samuel Sidebottom . -- ſº g April 2 . 1714 | Charles John Way e g July 21 . j.832
Francis Pigott . & ſº & tº July 24 . 1752 | Richard Durnford, present rector* º & g 1835
The registers state that Edmund Hopwood, magistrate, celebrated the marriages in 1653.
“On a plain stone in the Quire of Middleton church,” says Vernon, “I find these words:–Hic jacet Richardus Barton.........
Alicia uxoris ejus qui quidem Richardus obijt X” die mensis Augusti Anno Dñi Millesimo CCC*W*.” (Here lies Richard Barton
& g º º is e is s & Alice his wife, which same Richard died 10th August 1305.) “I guesse this Richard was uncle to Margret who marryed Sr
Ralph Ashton.”
There are two churchwardens for Middleton, one appointed by the rector, the other by the ratepayers;
and two for Tonge, elected in the same way. The Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Rhodes, Middleton, was
opened in October 1833. The Independent Chapel, Barrowfields, was opened May 11, 1834. The Primitive
Methodist Chapel, Barrowfields, was founded August 1835.
The most early and the most important amongst the charitable institutions of Middleton is “Queen Elizabeth's Free School,”
founded and endowed “with a competent salary both to the master and under-master,” by Alexander Nowell, D.D., dean of St.
Paul’s, by charter, dated August 11, 1572;% who at the same time founded thirteen scholarships in Brazenose College, Oxford, and
provided for the maintenance of such scholars as had been sent from the school to that college." To augment the endowment the
queen presented the school with £20 a-year for ever ; and Dean Nowell, in a letter to the lord-treasurer Burghley, dated the 24th
1. By an inquisition taken in 13 Henry VIII. it appears that the glebe-lands let to various tenants, the whole having an area of 133
Stanley family held lands in this parish. —Duchy Records, vol. v. acres and one rood land, Old Lancashire measure. The boom-labours
Inq. post mortem, num. 68. and gifts of the glebe-tenants were leading turves, shearing in
* Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by Canon Raines, ii. 99. harvest, a hen, and a heriot at the death of every tenant or tenant's
* A terrier of the glebe-lands and other possessions of the rectory widow.
of Middleton, dated 16th September 1663, the Rev. Robert Symonds * Archdeacon of Manchester, 1867.
being then rector, still exists, by which it appears that the rector * There had been a school of some celebrity at Middleton before
had in his occupation a dwelling-house of 10 little bays, 2 barns of this foundation, as Dean Nowell and his brother Robert were there
5 bays, one stable and one shippon of 2 bays, one swinehouse of “brought up in their youth ;” and the latter, about six hours
2 bays, one workhouse of one bay, one kiln of 3 bays, with 20 before he died, said to the Dean, “Forget not Middleton School,
closes (all named) containing 60 acres of land; and in the where we and other of our brethren were taught in our childhood.”
hall of the parsonage-house, as heirlooms, 2 tables, a livery cup- –Notitia Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 101.
board, 2 forms and one ceiled bench. There were 15 lots of ° Strype's Annals, vol. ii. p. 239.
472 (Iſiſt #istorg of 3 attrašijire.
June 1572, while the patent of foundation lay in his lordship's hands, prayed him “to finish the good work which he had begun,
by moving her majesty to license the sum of £100, or so many marks at the least, by him and others, to be purchased in mortmain
for the increase of the stipends of the schoolmaster and usher, and of the number and exhibition of the said Scholars, and the better
relief of the great company of that poor college.” This suit, it appears, did not succeed, though it was urged by the consideration
that it would bind not only the dean but all the inhabitants of the rude county of Lancaster and the scholars of the college, to
pray for her majesty and for her treasurer. Subsequently Dean Nowell purchased, as a portion for the endowment of this school,
the manor of Upberry and the rectory of Gillham in Kent, with the advowson of the vicarage; but Sir Edward Hobie, the lessee,
an avaricious courtier, peculated the revenues of the school by withholding the rents for several years, owing to which malversation
the venerable founder was reduced to great distress from his endeavours to uphold the institution thus wrongfully deprived of its
revenues, as appears from the following, of which the spelling is modernised —
ORIGINAL PETITION.
(Harl. MSS. Cod. 6853, fo. 161.)
“To the right honourable Sir John Pickering, knight, lord-keeper of the great seal of England. Humbly complain unto your
honourable lordship your daily suppliants, Alexander Nowell, dean of Paul’s, Richard Harries, principal, and the fellows of Brazenose
College, Oxford, and thirteen of her majesty's poor scholars there of her highnesses late foundation, and the Schoolmaster and usher of
Middleton school in Lancashire, lately also by her majesty founded ; that where[as] in the sixteenth year of her majesty's reign (1575)
the said dean purchased the reversion of the manor of Upberry and rectory of Gillingham in Kent, and gave the same to her majesty,
which was by her highness assured to the said college, for the maintenance of the said scholars, Schoolmaster, and usher, and to the
amendment of the fellows’ commons (being before but 14d. weekly), to take place on the decease of the Lord Cheynie ; for which manor and
parsonage, upon a lease made by the said Lord Cheynie, there was five marks (£3: 6:8) rent in money, and 8 score 8 quarters of malt
reserved. So it is that Sir Edward Hobie, knight, having the interest of the said lease, hath since the Lord Cheynie's death answered in
money part at his own pleasure, sometimes more, sometimes less, for the same, and is at this present three whole years behind, and will
not pay the malt-rent, as he ought to do, nor in money but so much or little as pleaseth him, and when it pleaseth him, neither will observe
any covenant of his said lease. The said rent in malt the college in good conscience hath allowed the said dean to receive towards his
housekeeping, in respect that in Lord Cheynie's lifetime, for the space of fifteen years, he (Nowell) did bear the whole charges of the exhibition
of six of her majesty's said scholars, increased the stipends of the said scholars and usher, and built a fair schoolhouse of stone in her
majesty's name, with lodging for the scholars and usher, to the value of the whole above noted of 2000 marks (£1333: 6:8) and above, and is
still charged with his brother's fatherless children at the Universities. Upon the late humble suit made to the lords of her majesty's most
honourable privy council about the beginning of May last, the hearing of the cause was by them committed to my lord the chief justice,
and to Mr. Attorney-General, who have the 17th of this February returned their opinion, that the said 8 score and 8 quarters of malt,
with the arrearages, are by law to be paid upon the land holden by the said lease. But for that [a] suit in law for the same will be long,
troublesome, and chargeable to the principal and fellows of the said poor college, being deeply indebted to the said dean, who, that her
majesty's school, so lately by her graciously founded, wherein near two hundred scholars are taught, should not be broken up, and her
13 poor scholars, for lack of their exhibition, be enforced to forsake the Universities; the said dean hath by the space of these three years
lent unto them wherewith to discharge all the premises, and is himself thereby so impoverished that he can help them no longer. And
for that if they should by law have judgment against Sir Edward Hobie, it will be hard to get that which is due to him, being of her
majesty's household, and for other causes, your said suppliants humbly beseech your honourable lordship, whom it hath pleased God to
appoint the chief judge under her majesty in matters of law and conscience in this realm of England, to help that order may be taken by
the most honourable council, that Sir Edward Hobie may pay the rents due by his lease, and keep other covenants of the same, and yield
right unto your said suppliants, whereby they all shall be bound to pray for your honourable lordship unto almighty God, who has the
same, and all yours always in his most blessed keeping.—Your honourable lordship's humble suppliants (signed) ALEXANDER NOWELL ;
RICHARD HARRIS, Principal ; THOMAS SINGLETON, Vice-Principal, in the names of all the rest.”
This endowment, supposed to be sufficient for the free instruction of 200 scholars in Middleton school, and for the maintenance
of the thirteen exhibitions from that school" to Brazenose College, either from some defect in the foundation of the school, or in
the administration of its property, has sunk to so low an ebb, that in the claims for exemptions made under the property-tax act in
1815, the income of Middleton school is returned at the very diminutive amount of £24:13:4 a-year, exclusive probably of the
schoolhouse and the field, comprising one acre of customary measure, in which it stands. To supply the deficiency in the stipend,
the office of head-master of this school is usually conferred by the principal and fellows of Brazenose College, who are incorporated
governors of the school, upon the curate of the parish church, and the usher's salary is augmented by receiving into the school the
boys and girls of the parish, who pay for their education twopence per week. There were in 1866-7 an average of forty boys and
girls in the school, all on the foundation, and all paying a capitation-fee of £2 : 2S. yearly. The master, since 1852, is Mr. James
Jelly of Trinity College, Cambridge; and the education comprises the usual grammar-school curriculum, Latin, Greek, etc., taught
free of charge ; to which are added the requisites for a fair English and commercial education. The master's stipend is small,
considering that he is required to be a member of a university. The commissioners for charities, in their 19th report, represent that
the principal and fellows of Brazenose College, Oxford, being the trustees of Middleton school, that institution does not fall within
the scope of their inquiries. This is much to be regretted, as it has long been surmised that an equitable portion of the funds due
to this school is not apportioned to its use. The scrutinising investigation of the commissioners, and the publication of the result
of the inquiries, would doubtless have set these conjectures at rest, either by showing that they are ill grounded, or by procuring
for the institution that income which is justly its due.”
The other charities of Middleton are—A bequest made in the year 1653 by John Guest, William Downall, and Robert Parr, of
certain lands and tenements in Abram, to purchase 112 yards of linen cloth for forty-five poor people in Winwick, Leigh, Wigan,
Dean, Radcliffe, Bolton, Bury, and Middleton respectively. This charity not being found sufficiently productive, a special act of
parliament appointed £500 to be laid out in land, to which the sum of £140 was added. The Middleton portion arising annually
out of this property is £9 a-year, which is divided amongst the different townships in the same proportion that each of them
contributes to the church-rate, and which is expended in linen cloth for the use of their respective poor. Stock's charity, to the
amount of £15:12s. per annum, is expended in the purchase of bread, distributed weekly amongst twelve poor persons of sober
life, and constant in their attendance at prayers in Middleton church. Catherine Hopwood’s charity, of the date of 1758, amounting
to £400, to which are added the separate bequests to the poor of nine persons between the years 1633 and 1726, amounting to £100,
one moiety of the interest of which is paid to the churchwarden of Hopwood, and the other to the churchwarden of Middleton,
being £10 each, which is laid out in linen cloth, and distributed to the poor on New Year's Day. The same benefactress also left
£100, the interest of which is paid to the schoolmaster of Hopwood school for teaching children sent to that school. Moss's charity,
being the interest on a bequest of £50 left in the year 1772, is distributed in linen cloth to the poor of Middleton; as is also
1 Or from the school of Whalley or Burnley, or in defect from number, a movement among the inhabitants commenced, in Novem-
any other school in the county palatine of Lancaster. ber 1867, to effect an improvement in the regulation of the school.
2 The scholars in this school having diminished greatly in —H.
#umbrel of $alfort—ſittitleton #arigº. 473
Buckley's charity to the same amount. In Ainsworth's school the schoolmaster is appointed by the earl of Wilton; the deeds are
lost, but the master occupies a cottage and two acres of land worth £12 or £13 a-year, on condition of teaching six or eight poor
children of Ainsworth gratis. There are also Lancashire's charity, of the date of 1735, amounting to £20; Cook's charity to the
same sum ; and Richardson's charity of £10, the interest of which is expended in linen cloth for the poor of Hopwood. Dr. Robert
Hopwood, by a codicil to his will, dated 14th March 1762, devised the sum of £21 as a yearly rent-charge from two messuages and
tenements called Hanging Chadder, in this parish, which is distributed in clothing to seven poor men and seven poor women in
Hopwood who have not received parish relief for the twelve months preceding.
Middleton Hall, the ancient mansion or manor-house of the Ashtons, having fallen into decay, was taken
down and partly rebuilt about the latter part of the last century. It was finally forsaken by its owners, and
entirely demolished in 1845. The park is no longer a pasture for deer, but has been converted into farms.
Since the establishment of manufactures here the town has increased greatly; and the five hundred inhabitants
contained in the parish in the time of the Commonwealth are now (1861) swelled to upwards of 19,600. To
promote the accommodation of this continually-augmenting population, a grant for holding a weekly market
and three annual fairs was obtained from the crown in 1791; and Lord Suffield, at a very considerable
expense, built commodious shambles and a market-house, with a range of warehouses for general merchandise.
In February 1851 the shambles and market-house, which had never been much used, were taken down. The
day fixed for holding the market is Friday; and for the fairs, the first Tuesday after the 11th of March, the
first Tuesday after the 15th of April, and the second Thursday after the 29th of September; but both the
markets and fairs are nominal, there being no business done at any of them. There has recently been
established a monthly fair, held on the last Friday in every month.
The town of MIDDLETON includes portions of two contiguous townships—Middleton and Tonge. The
government of the town and parish was formerly in two constables, chosen yearly at the court-leet baron of
the lord of the manor in October. As the town grew in extent, importance, and population, it became
necessary to have more modern machinery for its government and regulation, and for a time it was under
the control of a body named “The Nuisance-removal Board,” elected by the ratepayers. In 1861, however,
a special local act was obtained, which places its government under a body of Improvement Commissioners.
This “Middleton and Tonge Improvement Act 1861” (24 and 25 Vict, passed 28th June 1861) is an act “for paving, draining,
lighting, cleansing, and otherwise improving,” the district comprised within the boundaries of the township of Middleton in the
parish of Middleton, and the township of Tonge in the parish of Prestwich. The first commissioners under this act were elected
in November 1862, and are to be elected by the ratepayers annually in that month. They are nineteen in number—viz, nine each
for the townships of Middleton and Tonge, and one nominated by the lord of the manor. They have three committees—1. Gas;
2. Paving, lighting, and cleansing; and 3. Finance and general purposes. The commissioners and the committees 1 and 2 meet
monthly, number 3 weekly. Their meetings are held at “The Commissioners' Rooms,” a plain brick edifice, erected in the summer
of 1865, which contains offices for the clerk to the commissioners, the surveyor, the collectors, etc., the general board-room and
ante-room, committee-room, etc. On the premises are also the fire-engine house and tool-house." Middleton was formerly supplied
with gas by a joint-stock company, under an act of 1847, but by the “Middleton Gas Act 1851,” the former act was repealed, and
a new company incorporated, with a certain amount of capital. The Improvement Commissioners, under their act, purchased the
rights and powers of this company, and the works were transferred to the commissioners on the 1st October 1861. The payment
to be by perpetual annuities to the shareholders of the company, £2600 yearly, payable half-yearly, the gas to be consumed by
meter, at a maximum price of 5s. per thousand cubic feet; which is the present price (October 1867), with a discount of 5d. in the
pound, if paid within a month, and a greater discount to large consumers. The streets are also lighted with gas, paid for by a
lighting-rate of not more than 6d. in the pound on the full net annual value of the property. The limits of gas-supply include
the townships of Middleton and Tonge, and those also of Alkrington, Great and Little Heaton, in the parish of Prestwich, and the
township of Thornton in the parish of Middleton. The gas is required by the act to be equal in intensity to the light produced by
eighteen sperm candles of six in the pound, burning 120 grains per hour. The town is supplied with water from the Heywood Water-
works by a joint-stock company, the consumers paying according to the rateable value of their premises, rate collected quarterly and
in advance. The commissioners may compel every occupier to take water, at not more than 3d. weekly rate. The commissioners have
power to levy separate rates for sewers, for improvements, and for highways. Land is rated at one-fourth of the net annual value.
The improvement-rate is not to exceed Is, in the pound, except with the consent of two-thirds of the ratepayers at a special meeting,
and with that consent not to exceed 2S. altogether. The improvement rate is to be applied,—1st, In paying the charges of obtaining
the act; 2d, Interest on moneys borrowed or owing on the credit of the improvement rates; 3d, In setting apart a sinking-fund for
paying off the principal money borrowed by and secured on the improvement rates; and, 4th, To carry out the purposes of the act
(excepting the making and supplying gas, building and repairing Sewers, and making and repairing highways). The highway rates
are to be applied—1st, In paying interest ; 2d, For a sinking-fund ; and, 3d, In altering, improving, repairing, and maintaining the
present and future streets and public footpaths within the two townships, and executing any works authorised by the act to be paid for
out of the highway-rate, and other powers and duties of Surveyors of highways. The gas-rents are, in like manner, made liable to
certain charges. All penalties under the act, and all moneys for the sale of superfluous land, etc., to be carried to the credit of the
commissioners, and applied in paying off principal moneys owing and in carrying out the purposes of the act. All rights of the
lord of the manor are reserved. The financial year of the commissioners ends on 31st March ; and from their accounts for the year
ended that day 1867, the following items are selected, omitting shillings and pence —MIDDLETON.—Highway.—Receipts show a
balance due to the bank of £284; expenditure £1096. The liabilities (including the balance and outlay account, É334) are £619;
the assets the same amount. Lighting.—Receipts, £7; expenditure (including a balance due to the bank in March 1866 of £397),
£520; leaving a balance due to the bank of £513. Improvement.—Receipts (including balance of cash in hand in March 1866 of
£551, and balance from Rhodes district account of £525), £1484 ; expenditure, an amount less than that by the balance in hand,
£384. The assets are valued at £3187; the chief liability is £3066 in loans. Sewerage.—Expenditure, £891; leaving a balance
due to the bank of £847. Fire-engine. —Expenditure (including balance due to bank, March 1866) £264; leaving a balance due to
the bank of £222. Public Works Loan.-The receipts include a balance in hand, March 1866, of £546; loan, £1000; repayments
for paving, flagging, etc., £1074; outlet sewers, £681; private work and materials sold, £365; total, £3718. The expenditure in
various parts of the town is less than the receipts by £1266, the balance in the bank. The liabilities show a debt to the Government
1 This fire-engine was bought and kept in order by public sub- F.R.C.S. The subscribers agreed to present it to the town, and it
scription, mainly through the exertions of the late O. Dickin, Esq., was accepted accordingly.
3 P
474 (Iſiſt ºigtorg of £antagijire.
Loan Board of £5666. The TONGE accounts show : Highway.—Expenditure, £1000; balance due to the bank, £526. Improve-
ment.—Receipts (including rate collected £410, and loan £1000), £1454; expenditure shows a balance in hand of £149. Lighting.
—Expenditure (including balance due to the bank, March 1866, £146), £227, all due to the bank. Gas Cash-account.—Receipts,
balance in bank, March 1866, £3479; gas-rents (Middleton, £3930; Tonge, £1638), £5568; coke, £400; tar, £234; total, £10,190,
Expenditure, annuitants, £2556; cannel, coal, and lime, £3474; total, less than receipts by £749, the balance in the bank. Gas
Manufacture.—Dr.—Coal, £807; cannel, £1649; wages, etc., £636; repairs, £444; total, £4803. Cr. —By gas charged to con-
sumers, £5899; tar, £231; coke, £398; total, £6687—showing the year's profits, £1883. The Gasworks Balance-sheet.—Lia-
bilities to shareholders, £25,700; sundry creditors, £674; profit, É1480; total, £28,021. Assets (including building and works,
£3977; gas-holders, £4537; mains and services, £7457; and meters, £2381; gas-rents, etc. É3424; stocks on hand, £1154) show
a total, £28,021, including £749 cash in hand.
There is a station of the county constabulary at Middleton, where are placed six officers under an
inspector, all being under the direction of Superintendent Pickering at Rochdale. The district (about two
miles square) under the charge of the Middleton police comprises the townships of Middleton and Tonge, Alk-
rington and Rhodes. Petty sessions are held at the Boar's Head, Middleton, every other Wednesday, before
county magistrates; and in any case of emergency a magistrate attends at the constabulary station and
disposes of the case there. One fire-engine and a brigade of firemen are stationed at the Commissioners'
Rooms.
The Post-office has one general arrival, and a second from Manchester, daily, and two deliveries. Con-
nected with the general office are two pillar-boxes, in Long Street and Lark Hill. There is also a Money-
order Office and a Post-office Savings' Bank. Middleton is placed in railway communication with Manchester
and all the surrounding towns by means of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway, having a station at
Middleton, and by the Middleton and Oldham Junction Station. There is a branch of the Manchester and
Salford Savings' Bank in the National School, Long Street.
Besides the parish church of St. Leonard, there are in the parish the Holy Trinity Church (Parkfield),
All Saints (Heaton), St. Mary's Birch (Hopwood), and St. Michael's (Tonge). Amongst the other places of
worship are—one large Wesleyan Chapel, Wood Street ; a new Independent Chapel (Lodge Street), adjoining
the old Providence Chapel, which is now a school in connection with the chapel; and another, the Salem Chapel,
Gas Street, near the Commissioners' Rooms, occupied till recently by a branch of Lady Huntingdon's Connection,
a branch of which has a chapel in High Street. The Primitive Methodist Chapel is in Irk Street, and
another at Bow Lee ; the Wesleyan Association or “Free Church,” in Saddler Street, and another at Hebers,
|Middleton; the Baptists have a meeting-room at Lark Hill, Tonge; and a chapel at Mills Hill, Chadderton;
the Unitarians worship in the Temperance Hall, Manchester Old Road. The “New Church” (Swedenborgian)
is in Wood Street, and there is another at Rhodes; and the “Lord's Church,” in Manchester Old Road. The
Roman Catholics have not hitherto had a chapel, but are building one near St. Michael's Church, Tonge."
Besides the grammar-school, there is a large national School here, in connection with the parish church,
in a substantial Tudor edifice of stone. It is also opened as a Sunday School, which is attended by about 900
scholars. Sunday schools are connected with all the churches and chapels of the different denominations.
There are various kinds of orders, clubs, and benefit-Societies, including the Freemasons, the United Order
of Odd-Fellows, Druids, Gardeners, etc. Middleton has one newspaper, published every Saturday, the
Middleton Albion, established in 1857 by Mr. Thomas Mills, its present proprietor and editor. Some gentle-
men having thought it desirable, both as regards cleanliness and health, to establish public baths, a building
was erected in the Manchester Old Road, in which there are the usual arrangements, one day a-week being
set apart for women's baths, and there being a large swimming-bath, one of the best in the district. The
“Middleton, Tonge, and Alkrington Free Library,” has also been established in one of the rooms of the Baths
building. It is supported by voluntary subscriptions, and books are lent out to any person who conforms to
the simple rule of obtaining a guarantee from two ratepayers. It contains about 2000 volumes, including a
large collection of standard works. There is also a Church Reading-room and Library.
Co-operation is fairly represented in Middleton. The “Middleton and Tonge Industrial Society
(Limited),” was established in 1850, for the sale of groceries, provisions, butchery, drapery, tailoring, and
clogging. It has three grocery shops, in Long Street, Wood Street, and Jumbo, and others for the busi-
nesses named. The number of members on the 24th November 1866, the end of its financial year, was 581 ;
119 having been admitted and 56 withdrawn during the year. The shares are £1 each ; and during the
year there had been received on shares £2265, and the total amount for 1850 was £16,067. The amount
of share-capital in November 1866 was £4782; of loan capital, including interests, £569. Goods bought
during the year, £13,464; cash received for goods sold during the year, £15,859; profit from all sources in
the year, £1552; of which £1147 was distributed as dividend among members; interest on shares, £262 ;
bonus to non-members, £37; depreciation of fixed stock, £76; balance in hand, £28. The expenses during
the year included—wages, £654; rents, taxes, and rates, £57; repairs, etc., £52 ; carriage, £55; horse-keep,
toll-bars, etc., £70; printing, stationery, and newspapers, £21 ; incidental expenses, £28; total, £940. The
accounts are audited weekly by members; reports made and printed quarterly. The cash in hand, in the bank
and the hands of the treasurer and officers, in November 1866, was £456. Total value of the assets (after
* The opening services take place December 8, 1867.
#umbret of $alfort—ſºlittleton 33arigi). 475
deducting for depreciation of building and fixtures), £6399; total amount of trade liabilities, £691. All
goods are paid for on delivery. The members can be supplied with coal at the pit prices. The gross profits
of the quarter ended 24th August 1867 were £418, and the committee declared a dividend thereon of 1s. 9d.
on each £1 cheque brought in. The Society subscribe to the Manchester Royal Infirmary, so as to be able
to give (through the board of directors) recommendations to the institution for sick members or their
children.
The cotton-trade is carried on in this township and parish to a considerable extent, in the various
processes of spinning, weaving, bleaching, and printing. The manufactures consist of calicoes, nankeens,
ginghams, checked handkerchiefs, etc. The silk-trade, which prevailed to a considerable extent in this district
at the close of the last century, and afterwards declined, again revived for some years, and a great number of
the Middleton weavers were employed in that branch of manufacture. But the trade again declined, and
the weavers suffered great distress in 1861 and 1862. Coals are very abundant, and though they are not
obtained in Middleton, an ample supply is afforded at a cheap rate from the townships of Thornham and
Hopwood in this parish.
In 1812, when the spirit of Luddism’ spread from the county of Nottingham into Yorkshire, and pre-
vailed in some degree in Lancashire, a riotous assembly, consisting of several thousand persons, rose on the
20th of April in this parish, and gathered with menacing array round the power-loom weaving manufactory
of Messrs. Daniel Burton and Sons, in the centre of the town of Middleton. This event was foreseen, and
arms had been provided for the protection of the property. The mob, unintimidated by the knowledge of
this circumstance, commenced an attack upon the mill, from which they were fired upon and four of their
number killed. This terrible example saved the premises from destruction, but the following day an attack
was made upon the house of Mr. Emanuel Burton, half-a-mile from the mill, which was set on fire and
destroyed. Here the mischief ended, and the arrival of a large body of cavalry from Manchester, having
struck terror into the incendiaries, restored tranquillity.
“The Middleton Agricultural Society,” established July 1859, is a successful institution. It held its ninth
annual show on Thursday, September 19th, 1867, in a spacious field behind the rectory. The day was quite
a holiday in Middleton. The live stock included horses, sheep, and pigs; poultry, pigeons, rabbits, dogs, and
bees. There were also agricultural implements, agricultural and horticultural produce, butter, eggs, and
cheese. Altogether there were nearly 2250 entries, and more than £750 was given in prizes. Though the
exhibition was limited to one day, it is supposed that nearly 30,000 persons visited it, and the receipts at the
gates, grand-stand, and paddock, and for the sale of catalogues, were £822. There was a dinner in the
National School Room, at which Thomas Bazley, esq., M.P., the president of the society, presided ; and in
the course of his address he stated that -
Last year, according to the Board of Trade statistics, there were imported into this country more than 4 millions of cattle and
sheep, which represented a value of 5% millions sterling. The quantity of beef, pork, and other animal food amounted to 5000 tons
weight, and represented £3,000,000 in value. The butter and cheese received in this country amounted to 10,000 tons in weight, and
were of the value of £9,000,000 sterling. The imports of wheat, oats, barley, maize, and flour, amounted to 12 millions of quarters, and
were worth 30% millions. These articles amounted to a total of £48,000,000 sterling in value. The tea and sugar imported was of the
value of 20 millions sterling ; spirits, such as brandy, rum, etc., 2% millions; tobacco, 2% millions ; eggs and fruit, one million. The
value of these luxuries, which many people regarded as necessaries, amounted to 31 millions. This country, therefore, receives annually
necessaries and luxuries of the kind to which he had referred, amounting to 79 millions sterling. The value of the cotton and sheep's
wool received from abroad amounted in value to 87; millions, and the timber used for building purposes to 10 millions, so that we receive
from various foreign countries a total, during the year, of 97% millions worth of produce, and the entire quantity imported was 170
millions, or perhaps 180 millions.
There is also a Floral and Horticultural Society here.
The old churchyard and burial-ground of Middleton must have been coeval with the church itself. But
when this became filled with graves, it became necessary to add to it a portion of the adjacent land; and this
was done sixty or seventy years ago. Again it became too small; and about 1826 the crest of a large adjoining
mound, known as “The Warren,” was appropriated. This ground was formerly—forty or fifty years ago—
a bowling-green attached to the Suffield Arms Inn. At that time there were two or three other bowling-
greens in Middleton; in 1867 there is not one in the township. Again it became necessary to enlarge the
cemetery; and in July 1860 a purchase was made, by resolution of the parishioners in vestry assembled, of
rather more than five acres of land adjacent, which cost, for land alone, £821; and, including its retaining-
wall and various expenses, it has cost altogether £3652. The upper part of the mound, nearest to the church-
yard, has been consecrated and appropriated for the burials of members of the Church of England; and it is
a matter of some regret and disappointment, that the lower and unconsecrated part of the cemetery, assigned
to the use of dissenters, should slope so rapidly as to cause considerable inconvenience to the mourners, and
especially to the bier-bearers, at funerals. Certainly it should have been laid out in terraces, and not left a
shelving piece of ground, very objectionable from its want of level surface.
* Luddism had for its object the destruction of manufacturing applied ; hence the broad stocking-frames of Nottingham, the cloth-
machinery recently introduced, which superseded or diminished dressing machinery of Yorkshire, and the power-looms of Lancashire
manual labour in the manufacture of the articles to which it was were peculiarly obnoxious to the Luddites.
476 (ſhe #t3torg of £antagüirº.
LOCAL ANNALS.
Before the Nineteenth Century.—At the battle of Flodden Field, 9th September 1513, the Middleton archers distinguished
themselves. 1640, November 16. Dr. Chaderton of Chadderton Hall died, aged 103. 1643. The Middleton clubmen fought bravely
or the Parliament at Bolton-le-Moors. 1664, March 17. William Ashton, esq. of Chadderton Hall, was killed in a duel. 1757,
August 5. Rev. Richard Assheton, D.D., inducted rector of Middleton. In 1770 Middleton contained only twenty-three habitations.
In 1780 the population of Tonge numbered only seventy-four persons. Samuel Bamford, the veteran radical reformer, prose-
writer, and poet, was born here on the 28th February 1788. He is still living (October 1867), in his 80th year, nearly blind, but
in fair general health ; and he attended a reform demonstration in Manchester in 1867. 1798, August 31. Edmund George Hopwood,
esq. of Hopwood Hall, died, aged 77.
1800, February 20. Salis Schwabe, esq. of the Rhodes Printworks, born.
1801, February 19. The Rev. Robert Walker inducted rector of Middleton.
1804, December 21. The Rochdale Canal opened, having cost in construction, etc., £290,000. -
1810, February 4. Harbord Harbord, first Baron Suffield, died. Created a peer, 8th August 1786. Married, in 1760, Mary,
daughter and co-heiress of Sir Ralph Assheton, bart., with whom he took the Middleton and Thornham manor and estates.
1812, April 20. Rioting at Messrs. Burton's mill, and four men killed. On the 21st Mr. E. Burton's house was burned down,
and one man was killed by the Scots Greys. August 28. Flour 6s., and meal 5s. per doz. lbs. ; bread 4d. the lb.
1816. This year flour was very unsound and of bad quality.
1818, March 21. Rev. J. Haughton inducted rector of Middleton.
1820, April 24. Rioting between the inhabitants and the military. t
1821, January 27. R. Alsop, esq. of Litchford Hall, died, aged 50. August 21. William Assheton Harbord, Second Baron
Suffield, died without issue.
1824, December 31. John Kay, mathematician, Royton, died. *
1825, July 10. The new organ opened at St. Leonard's parish church. November 1. Burton's print-shop burned down.
b 1826. The hottest summer known for sixty years; the herbage in the fields, in the neighbourhood of Middleton, being quite
urnt up.
1828, July 14. Great flood, by which a large quantity of hay and grass was destroyed.
1829, January 30. The Rev. J. Archer, who had been curate for fifty years, was inducted rector.
1830. June 30. Severe thunderstorm ; the hailstones measured five inches in circumference.
1831, March 14. The Worralls executed for the murder at Failsworth.
1832, May 11. Rev. James Archer died, aged 66. July 21. The Rev. Charles Wray presented to the rectory of Middleton.
1833, January 1. Salis Schwabe, esq., commenced calico-printing at the Rhodes works.
1835, July 1. The Rev. Richard Durnford inducted rector of Middleton. July 6. The foundation-stone of Rhodes Primitive
Methodist School laid by E. S. Schwabe, esq. Edward Harbord, third Baron Suffield (who succeeded his brother the second baron),
was accidentally killed by a fall from his horse.
1836, September 17. John Tetlow, esq. of Alkrington Hall, died.
J hº º une 11. A slight shock of earthquake at Middleton. October 26. Celebration in Middleton of the centenary of
O esley.
1840, January 7. The Middleton Botanical Society was established. October 5. John Mellor, botanist, died.
1842, March 31. The Oldham Branch Railway opened.
1843, March 16. Shock of an earthquake at Middleton. August 19. Riotous proceedings of factory-hands and “plug-
drawing.” September 19. T. Smith, esq., steward of the Middleton and Thornham estates, died. -
1845, November 17. Meeting of ratepayers to oppose the introduction of gas and water.
1846, November 6. The Middleton Gasworks commenced.
1847, April 26. Potatoes sold at 2s. 4d. per score lbs. September 2. The next presentation to the rectory of Middleton
advertised for sale. November 23. Meeting to establish a mechanics’ institute.
1848, February 1. The first festival of the Middleton Mechanics’ Institute. April 4. Thomas Slater, esq.. Nut Bank, died,
aged 86.
5 1849, January 26. Second festival of the Mechanics’ Institute. g
1850, February 26. Third soirée of the Mechanics' Institute, November 10. Amos Ogden, “the radical,” died, aged 86.
November 11. William Worsley, president of the Middleton Botanical Society, died.
1851, February 10. The butchers' shambles or market taken down. - *
1 1853, March 23. Alexander Taylor of Mumps died. July 23. Salis Schwabe, esq. of Rhodes, died. His funeral took place
July 30.
1854, July 19, Robert Gregge Hopwood, esq. of Hopwood Hall, died, aged 83. August 3. D. Siltzer, esq. of Rhodes, died,
aged 45. -
85 1855, May 10. A fall of snow at Middleton. December 23. Opening of the Salem Chapel, Lady Huntingdon's Connection.
1857, May 1. Opening of the Middleton branch line of railway. May 26. £70 granted in Tonge towards a bridge. May 30.
No. 1 of Middleton Albion weekly newspaper published by Thomas Mills. August 1. The Chadderton Cemetery was opened.
August 17. Meeting in the Temple Hall to form a free library. August 18. The first marriage in Providence Chapel. August 20.
Consecration of the Chadderton Cemetery. August 27. James Platt, esq. of Oldham, accidentally shot. August 30. A living locust
caught at Middleton. October 10. Poll in Tonge on the question of lighting the streets with gas. November 15. St Matthew's
Church, Chadderton, opened. September 13. Re-opening of the Wesleyan chapel, Middleton.
1858, April 15. Mr. Timothy Harrop, organist of St. Leonard's (parish) church, Middleton, died. April 16. Middleton
original fair-day. May 20. Rev. Mr. Skidmore, Wesleyan minister, died. May 27. Laying two corner-stones of the New
Jerusalem Temple, Middleton. November 30. Sunday School Union tea-meeting at Middleton. December 29. Meetings of silk-
weavers to obtain an advance of wages. The working-people in great distress.
1859, January 10. Parliamentary Reform dinner at the Hare and Hounds. January 3. Dinner to Samuel Bamford at the
Assheton Arms. January 4. First soirée of the Middleton Literary Institute, John Cheetham, esq., presiding. February 7.
Meeting in the Temperance Hall to petition parliament to make Middleton and Tonge a parliamentary borough. April 22. Foun-
dation-stone laid of the new Independent chapel. July 18. Great storm of rain and hail. July 30. Fire at the Lodge Old Mill.
October 30. First show of the Middleton Agricultural Society. October 20. Meeting to establish a Church Institute at Thornham.
1860, January 21. Soirée of the Middleton Literary Institute. March 17. First meeting of the ratepayers of Middleton and
Tonge to consider the purchase of the gasworks for the town. March 28. A new cemetery proposed for Middleton and Thornham.
April 25. The Rev. Matthew Lawler, J.P., died, aged 50. May 6. The first Unitarian service in the Temperance Hall. June 13.
Opening of the new Independent chapel, which cost £2150. July 31. The first stone laid of the Public Baths. August 25. Cele-
bration in Middleton of the fiftieth anniversary or jubilee of the Primitive Methodists. September 12. Work commenced in the
new weaving-shed of Messrs. Schofield Brothers. September 19. Sale of the Litchford Hall estate. October 3. Second exhibition
of the Middleton Agricultural Society. November 14. The ratepayers of Tonge adopt the improvement bill.
\
#umbret of Šalforn—ſhibbleton #arish. 477
1861, January 9. At a public meeting of ratepayers, the Middleton Improvement Bill was adopted. January 13. The reduc-
tion made on silk-weavers' wages was withdrawn. March 11. Meeting of shareholders in the Middleton Gas Company; resolved,
by 591 to 153, to transfer the works to the town. March 12. Original fair-day at Middleton. The Middleton and Tonge Improve-
ment Bill passed the House of Commons. April 22. The first stone of the Dane Mills laid by Thomas Dickins, esq. May 1. Mr.
John Rushton died, aged 80. May 15. The Temperance Hall sold by public auction for £214. May 18. Opening of the Middleton
Public Baths. June 13. The Middleton and Tonge Improvement Bill passed the House of Lords; June 28. It received the royal
assent. June 15. First stone laid of the New Jerusalem Church School at Rhodes. June 22. James Fielding died, aged 87. June
28. A meeting of ratepayers authorised the burial board to purchase the Warren for a cemetery. July 10. First meeting of the
Improvement Commissioners. July 24. The Middleton and Thornham estates offered for sale. August 26. The first stone laid of
the Holy Trinity Church, Parkfield, by Thomas Ashton, esq. September 8. Terrible storm of thunder and lightning, the hail-
stones three inches in circumference. September 26. Third yearly exhibition of the Middleton Agricultural Society. October 1.
The Improvement Commissioners take possession of the gasworks. November 18, Banquet at the Rhodes Printworks to 1800
workmen, wives, etc. November 20. Meeting in Middleton to promote a relief fund for the distressed operatives during the cotton-
famine. December 3. First annual soirée of the Middleton Church Institute. December 16. Joseph Fielding, reporter, died.
1862, January 1. The New Jerusalem Chapel, Rhodes, opened. January 31. The Middleton monthly fair established, to be
held on the last Friday in every month. July 22. One hundred and fifty emigrants left Middleton and the neighbourhood for
Queensland. September 25. Fourth yearly exhibition of the Middleton Agricultural Society. October 11. Consecration of Holy
Trinity Church, Parkfield, by the bishop of Manchester. November 3. First election of Improvement Commissioners. November
21. Messrs. S. Schwabe and Company of Rhodes distributed 700 gallons of Soup to the distressed silk-weavers. December 9.
Completion of the bridge over the Irk at Middleton. December 16. A concert at the National School in aid of the distressed poor.
December 27. Dinner to aged people at Rhodes."
[The annals for 1863-67 have not been recorded.]
The soil of this parish is very variable, Some parts being strong clay and others light Sandy loam ; of
the 11,900 acres comprised in the area of the parish, the township of Middleton contains 1908 acres. The
largest township in the parish is Thornham, containing 1998 statute acres.
RHODES, a place so small and little known as not even to be named in Clarke's New Lancashire Gazetteer
of 1830, scarcely recognised as even a hamlet in the parish of Middleton, is now a flourishing manufacturing
village, with a population of more than 1000, having a church and three other places of worship, a library
and reading-room, and various other institutions. Rhodes and Rhodes Green, as formerly named, is a village
about a mile and a quarter S.S.W. of Middleton, on the road to Cheetham Hill and Manchester, which owes
its rise to the establishment there of the extensive printworks of Messrs. Salis Schwabe and Company,
near the bank of the river Irk. Originally the works, then on a small scale, were those of Messrs. Daniel
Burton and Sons, and when the late Mr. Salis Schwabe and his partner took them in 1832, there were but
four printing-machines on the premises. Now there are twenty-eight machines, preparations are making for
five more, and the works are the largest and most important in Lancashire. They include bleach and print
works, covering altogether about eight statute acres, and (except the bleachworks, a store-house, and the
offices of the firm) they form a compact group of buildings, all adjoining and on the south side of the high-
road from Manchester and Cheetham Hill to Middleton, between the road and the river Irk. The bleach-
works are at the Middleton end of Rhodes, on the north side of the highroad, and consist of one large build-
ing and several out-buildings. The groups of buildings forming the printworks include a colour-shop, four
hanging-rooms, one engraving-shop, two print-shops for machines (the larger containing eighteen, the other
ten printing-machines, from one to eight colours), and one for block-printing, a large dyehouse, and various
smaller buildings. The largest building is the warehouse, which consists, on the principal floor, of a noble
room 169 feet in length, a mean width of 64 feet, and 54 feet in height, having an area or floor of 10,816
square feet. It is well lighted by seventeen windows on each side, nine at the upper end, and three or four
at the lower. The roof is supported by a range of iron columns down the centre. To this room are brought
all the finished goods, and here they are folded by machine, packed, and sent off to the Manchester ware-
house, or to the different markets. In this room is a private telegraph connected with the warehouse of the firm,
41 George Street, Manchester, by which instantaneous communication can be made. It is H. Wylde's patent,
and is either alphabetical for words, or by figures, at will. Water for the purposes of the works is derived
from the streams above, and stored in a range of thirteen reservoirs—the surplus or waste water being taken
away by the Irk, which receives no refuse from the works. The fine octagonal brick chimney, on the north.
side of the road opposite the works, and visible as a landmark for miles round, was erected in 1846; it is
321 feet in height. In various parts of the buildings enlargements and extensions are now in progress;
amongst others an additional printing-shop, capable of containing ten additional printing-machines. The
bleach-works are capable of bleaching 20,000 pieces of ordinary lengths per week; and the printworks, with
the twenty-eight machines now working, can produce about 20,000 pieces weekly. The number of hands
employed in the works is about 900, chiefly men and boys, and including mechanics, joiners, wheelwrights,
etc. For the conveyance of coal and cloth to the works, and of finished goods from the works, twenty-five
horses are constantly employed. There are fifteen large and Small steam-engines in the works, and twenty-
one boilers, having an aggregate, the engines of 220, and the boilers of 920 horses' power. In connection
with the works is a handsome and commodious brick building, fronting the highroad, bearing its title on its
front, “Rhodes Works Library and Reading Room, 1864.” It was opened on the 1st May in that year, and
contains on the principal or ground floor a spacious and well-lighted hall which is used as a library (containing
* Compiled from “the Middleton Almanack” of Mr. Thomas Mills.
478 (Iije Đistory of £antagijire.
about 800 works on divinity, ethics, history, biography, science, voyages and travels, poetry, fiction, and
general literature); as a reading and news room, the tables being supplied with magazines and periodicals, and
with five daily and three weekly papers; and as a concert and lecture-room—the directors providing a series
of concerts and lectures in the winter, to which the public are admitted at a low charge. In October 1867
there were 150 members, paying only one halfpenny weekly. Non-members (not workmen) pay a penny
weekly to the news-room. In the basement of the building are class, draught, chess, and Smoking rooms;
and there is a lavatory adjoining the reading-room. The only other manufacturing establishment in Rhodes
is the small rolling and doubling (cotton) mill of Messrs. Smith and Collinge. The village has an Odd-
Fellows' Lodge, two of Foresters, and two children's benefit-clubs. In 1832 the only place of worship in
Bhodes was a room in connection with the works, supplied by Wesleyan Methodist ministers. Now there is
near the works, but locally in Heaton, All Saints Church, and a chapel, each connected with the Wesleyan
Methodists, Primitive Methodists, and the New Church (Swedenborgians), in all four places of worship.
In this, as in many of the other parishes of Lancashire, the establishment of manufactures has been the
signal for the gentry withdrawing themselves from the place and taking up their residence at a distance.
The reason is obvious; trade gives an increased value to landed property, and the proprietor, influenced
partly by the consideration of an improved rent-roll, quits a station which has diminished charms as a country
residence, and takes up his abode where he can enjoy more comfort at a less cost. The failure of the male
line in the Ashton family contributed to produce this effect at Middleton ; and that land is not likely ever
again to be occupied for parks and pleasure-grounds, each acre of which now yields to the proprietor from
five to ten pounds a-year.
Among the worthies of Middleton may be mentioned—
WILLIAM ASSHETON, D.D., prebendary of York cathedral, and rector of Beckenham in Kent, the son of the Rev. William
Assheton, rector of Middleton, born in the year 1641. He was educated at a private country school, and sent, on the 3d of July
1658, to Brazen-nose College, Oxford. He made a rapid progress in every branch of learning, took his degree of Bachelor of Arts,
and was elected to a fellowship of his college in 1663 ; and having become Master of Arts on the 18th of January 1664, was
ordained, and appointed chaplaim to the duke of Ormond, chancellor of the university, whom he attended in that capacity both in
England and Ireland. He was admitted to the degree of Bachelor of Divinity on the 10th of July 1672, and to that of Doctor on
the 23d of January following. In February 1673 he was nominated to the prebendal stall of Knaresborough, in the church of
York, and shortly after obtained the living of St. Antholin ; and in 1676, by the duke's interest with the St. John family, was
presented to the rectory of Beckenham, in Kent. He was also frequently chosen proctor for Rochester in convocation.
Dr. Assheton was the first projector of the scheme for providing a maintenance for clergymen's widows and others, by a jointure
payable by the Mercers' Company; and in this plan may be observed the origin of many of the systems of assurance which have
so generally obtained throughout England. The bringing of this scheme to perfection engaged his close attention many years; for
though he was encouraged by several judicious advisers in the prosecution of the design, yet how to provide such a fund as might
secure the subscribers, was a matter of considerable difficulty. He resolved, however, to proceed, and, if possible, to finish what he
had so long projected. His first address was to the corporation of the clergy, who declared they were not in a capacity to accept the
proposal. His next application was to the Bank of England, where he met with no better success; upon which he went to the
Mercers' Company, who, after full debates in their general courts and committees, agreed with him upon certain rules aud orders,
of which the following particulars compose the chief:-
“Ist, That the company will take in subscriptions at any time till the sum of £100,000 be subscribed, but will never exceed that
sum. 2dly, That all married men, not exceeding the age of forty years, may subscribe any sum not exceeding £500. And that all
married men, not exceeding the age of sixty years, may subscribe any sum not exceeding £300. And that the widows of all persons
subscribing according to these limitations, shall receive the benefit of 30 per cent per annum, free of all taxes and charges, at the two
usual feasts of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary and St. Michael the Archangel ; and that the first of these payments shall be made
at the first of these feast-days which shall happen four months or more after the decease of the person or persons so subscribing ;
excepting such as shall voluntarily make away with themselves, or by any acts of theirs occasion their own death, either by duelling, or
committing any crime whereby they shall be sentenced and put to death by justice. In any or either of these cases, the widows to
receive no annuity; but, upon delivering up the company’s bond, to have the subscription-money repaid them. 3d, That no seafaring
men may subscribe, who follow navigation as their business or vocation ; nor others who go farther than Holland, Ireland, or the coasts
of England; and that any person may subscribe for another, whom he shall nominate in his last will, during the natural life of his wife,
if she survive, and his intention be declared in his subscription.”
The company had several conferences with the doctor on the subject of settling a sufficient security, in which they satisfied
him that their estates, being clear rents, amounted to £2888 : 8 : 10 (independent of the payments of the benefactors to be deducted
from the same), which, by a moderate computation would yield, when the leases came out, above £13,500 per annum. All things
being agreed upon, the deed of settlement was drawn up under the auspices of Sir Nathan Wright, lord-keeper, and Sir Edward
Northy, attorney-general, and executed by the company and trustees, at a general court held on Wednesday the 4th October 1699,
and enrolled in chancery ; but owing to some miscalculations the scheme did not eventually succeed.
The following character of Dr. Assheton is extracted from his Life, by the Rev. T. Watts, page 156:—
“He was very regular and assiduous in private devotion, meditation, and reading ; history and philosophy he justly used as the
proper handmaids to divinity, which was his business and delight. He readily subscribed to the publishing all critical, learned, and
laborious works. Thus he completed one of the best libraries a clergyman can desire, having the blessing of a sufficient revenue, out of
which he appropriated a certain sum per annum to improve and increase his first stock of books, whereof he sent many duplicates into
Wales and the Highlands of Scotland. His zeal in and for the church was ever conspicuous; he preached twice every Sunday, to keep
the people from straggling and engage them to frequent the church. He watched diligently over his flock, and never neglected to pray
for them ; neither would he suffer any to perish for want of admonition and reproof, as well in the spirit of meekness as with all authority;
though he never sued, cited or prosecuted the most injurious and obstinate offenders, yet he rebuked and avoided the unruly, and kept
the impertinently censorious and perverse at a due distance. He knew and did his own duty well, and would have all his people mind
theirs, however offended at his just reproofs and warnings. He was so much the more deserving of his parish, that he was more generous
and charitable among them than just to himself, in disregarding often his small tithes and perquisites, taking quietly what was left him
by some and helping all. He kept a constant and good table, and seemed glad of daily guests, excepting on fast-days, etc. ; otherwise,
39 umbret of $alfort—ſitböſztom 33arígí). 479
the more frequent visits were to him the more welcome ; he kept up the true modern English hospitality, genteelly managed by an excel-
lent sister, who lived with him while he continued single, and some few years by a truly virtuous wife. As he was a most affectionate
tender husband and brother, so he was a just indulgent master, and had generally careful and honest servants, whom he took pains to
make religious, peaceable, and sober. He daily observed the good old religious way of family devotions, and Sunday repetitions in the
evening, for heavenly knowledge, grace, and protection. He sometimes used extempore sermons, until he was disturbed and put into a
consternation with his congregation, by a woman swooning away in the church ; although she was soon carried out and the people became
silent, yet he could not recover his subject nor recollect anything he had said before, which obliged him to make an apology and come down.
This he took as a warning never to presume on the strength of his parts or memory any more, neither would he ever after venture into
any pulpit without notes. He was easy of access, and most courteous and affable, meek as a lamb, harmless as a dove ; but withal, wise
to distinguish persons, times, and places. He never looked so frowning as when a certain gentleman was backbiting another, and telling
him a scandalous story. He started up, and, with emotion asked him, If he could face the absent which soon confounded the whisperer.
“The doctor, though low of stature and mean in aspect, was truly reverend; his countenance was full of mildness and courtesy, his
eyes more smiling than his mouth, his discourse grave and proper, his words Smooth and distinctly uttered, with due respect to time,
place, and person. His religion was legible in the innocency of his life, exactness of his morals, integrity and truth of his words, and the
justness and honesty of his conversation. Such was his prudence, and so exact his judgment, as to discern between pride and greatness,
religion and superstition, quickness and rashness, government and tyranny, liberty and licentiousness, subjection and servitude, frugality
and covetousness; and to give to every cause its proper actions and effects. He drank wine as sick men take physic, merely for health.
Reason was his rule, conscience his councillor; and his actions were ever contrary to those he found fault with. Age rendered him
neither morose nor imperious ; his conversation was so affable, pleasant, and instructive, that the young and old both delighted and
profited in his company.”
A few years before his death he was invited to accept the appointment of master of Brazenose College, then vacant, and also
an Irish bishoprick; but modestly declined both. He died at Beckenham in September 1711, in the seventieth year of his age,
and was buried in the chancel of that church. Dr. Assheton's Writings are very numerous.
BIRTLE-CUM-BAMFORD.—In this township a new church, dedicated to St. John the Baptist, was conse-
crated July 1, 1846, by the bishop of Chester (Dr. Sumner). It is a perpetual curacy and consolidated
chapelry, of which the Rev. T. Wilson (1850) is incumbent. It has 450 sittings, 270 free; value, £140 ;
patron, the rector of Middleton.
HoPWOOD.—This township adjoins to Middleton on the north. A family of this name has been seated
here for many centuries; in 1359 Adam de Hopwood was one of the inquisition at Preston, before Thomas
de Seton and others, justices of Henry, the first duke of Lancaster, in the dispute between him and Roger de
la Warre ; and in 1441 Galfridus Hopwood was styled gentleman among the witnesses to the license for the
foundation of the church of Manchester." The name of Hopwood does not appear in the more ancient
records of the county, being for the first time mentioned and called a manor in the inquisition on the death
of Edmund Hopwood (probably father of Edmund, the sheriff of Lancashire), in 10 Jac. I. (1612), who,
besides that manor, had messuages, lands, woods, and other property, in Middleton, Stanycliffe, Thorneham,
and Manchester.” An indenture, dated 12 Henry VI. (1434), is preserved with the papers belonging to the
churches of Prestwich and Oldham, from which it appears that Dame Margaret, widow of Thomas Hopwode,
exchanged with John, his son and heir, lands and tenements, being part of her dower in the “demesnes” of
Hopwood, for other property in the same township. On the death of Dr. Hopwood, in the early part of the
eighteenth century, by which event the original local family became extinct, the Hopwood estates passed by
will to Joseph Gregge, esq., the second son of Robert Gregge, esq., barrister-at-law, the progenitor of Captain
Edward John Hopwood, the present proprietor.” Hopwood, a quadrangular house of the time of Henry VIII.,
was held by a William de Hopwood at an early period, and was devised by the will (dated 1762) of his
descendant, Robert Hopwood, M.D., to his friend Edward Gregge of Chamber Hall, esq., grandfather of the
present owner. Considerable additions have been made to the house in recent years, and the effect produced
is picturesque and agreeable."
AINSWORTH, situated to the west of Hopwood, gave name to a local family of considerable antiquity.
In 20 Edward I. (1293), the abbot of Cockersaund was summoned to show his authority for a claim to
* A collection of 38 family charters, deeds, and evidences, penes the
late Robert Gregge Hopwood, esq. of Hopwood Hall, examined by
the writer in 1852, bear abundant proof of the existence of Robert
de Hopwood, rector of Middleton, son and heir of the Geoffrey who
was a parishioner of Manchester in 1421. Robert is styled “clerk”
from 1421; and “parson of the church of Middleton,” and “rector
of the church of Middleton,” from 1434 to 1457; so that he was
living, and probably rector of Middleton, thirty-six years—viz.
1421- 57. He appears to have had four brothers, James, Law-
rence, Alexander, and John ; and the last had a son, Charles. Other
relatives of the rector were, Robert Hopwood of Collingwood, York-
shire, Thomas of Cheshire, Lewis or Francis, and William. A later
scion of this family was Edmund Hopwood, born in 1599. He
married Dorothy, daughter of the Rev. Edward Assheton, rector
of Middleton, was sheriff of Lancashire in 1650, and died in
1664. —H.
* Duchy Records, vol. xx. Inquis. post mortem, 10 Jac. I.
num. 27.
3 The last possessor of the Hopwood estates (producing an income
of £7000 a-year), the late Robert Gregge Hopwood, esq., who was
an aged man, and had suffered from several attacks of paralysis,
died July 19, 1854, leaving a will (dated May 14, 1853), which,
with a codicil (of April 12, 1853) to a previous will, became the
Subject of much litigation among his children. The will enlarged
the legacies of two younger sons, alienated the estate from the
eldest son, Captain Edward Gregge Hopwood, leaving it to Captain
Hopwood’s only son (then a boy of seven years) on reaching the age
of twenty-one. If he died before that age, then to the Rev. Frank
Hopwood, the testator's second son, and to his sons after him, to
the exclusion of the captain's wife and daughters, and even of any
son born to him after the date of the will. By direction of the Court
of Chancery, the “great Hopwood will cause,” as it was called, The
Earl of Sefton v. [Captain] Hopwood, was tried at the assizes at
Liverpool, in April 1855, before Mr. Justice Cresswell and a special
jury. It occupied six days, and the jury gave as their verdict that
the alleged codicil and will were not made by the so-called testator
—which was a decisive verdict in favour of the defendant, Captain
Hopwood, the eldest son. He took possession of the estates and
colliery on the 24th May, and on the 26th, by a decree of Vice-
chancellor Wood, the old will of 1829 and its three codicils were
established, and the pretended codicil of April, and will of May
1853, were cancelled. Captain Hopwood has ever since remained
in the undisturbed possession of the estates.—H. -
* Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 100.
480 - (The #istory of £antagijire.
exemption from county fines and amerciaments in his lands in Aynesworth and Thorp, when he produced a
charter of King John, dated the 17th year of his reign (1215), granting to the abbot of Cockersaund and his
successors for ever, two carucates of land of his lordship of Neubigging juxta Singleton, to be held by the
service of 20s. per annum, and exemption for himself and his vassals. The abbot also produced a confirma-
tion of these liberties, dated 40 Henry III. (1256); but on examination it was found that the exemption
extended to these two carucates only, and that all the other lands of the abbot were geldable. The judgment
of the court was, “That the abbot be in mercy for claiming the exemption.” In an inquisition post mortem,
made in the 43d Edward III. (1369), we find that John, son of John de Aynesworth, had estates in
Middleton, Medcroft, Assheworth, Berkhull, and Lynales, as well as in this township. In Ainsworth, or
Cockey Moor, as it was formerly called, there existed an ancient Episcopal chapel so far back as 1580. It
was rebuilt in 1835. The registers of baptisms and burials begin in 1727, of marriages in 1766. It is a
parochial chapelry, of which the Rev. R. M. Evanson (1857) is the incumbent. It has 580 sittings, 262 free;
its value £167; patron, the rector of Middleton. There is a school attached. An old meeting-house, near
the church, erected for the ejected ministers of 1662, was built about 1712, and has been held ever since by
the Presbyterians, now Unitarians. Amongst its ministers have been the Rev. Thomas Barnes, D.D., the
Rev. Joseph Bealey, the Rev. James Whitehead, and the Rev. James T. Whitehead, the present minister.
GREAT LEVER, at the western extremity of the parish of Middleton, was long held by the ancient
family of that name, but in the sixth year of Edward TV. (1466), we find Sir Rauff Assheton, knight, suing
out a “writ of right of warde” against Roger Lever of Bolton, gentleman, for the recovery of the manor
of Great Lever, in the parish of Middleton, and obtaining judgment at the assizes at Lancaster, by which the
manor was awarded to Sir Rauff.” .
The award given by the court was, it appears, resisted by the defendant Roger Lever, who, in these lawless times, took with
him “John Lever, late of Bolton afforsaid, yoman ; Adame Lever, late of the same Townne, yoman ; James Lever, late of the same
Towne, yoman; John Lever, the sonne of James Lever, late of the same Toune, yoman ; John Randalfe, late of the same Townne,
yoman; Robert Ratclyff, late of Ratclyff, in the Seid countie, yoman ; Gilberd Lever, late of Heton, in the said countie, yoman ;
Rauff Mader, late of Mydelton, in the seid countie, yoman ; Laurance Coventre, late of Wynwyk, in the Seid countie, yoman ; with
many and divers other evell desposed personnes to a gret nowmber;” many of whom had been outlawed, probably in the contests
between the houses of York and Lancaster, and proceeded from Bolton to the town of Lancaster, where they riotously broke into
the castle, and carried off the record of the recovery. Of this outrage Sir Rauff Assheton complained to the king and to the two
houses of parliament, on which they ordained that the copy of the record which was annexed to his petition should be of the
same force and efficacy as the original, and the justices thereupon awarded execution according to the said recovery. Notwith-
standing which, the same Roger Lever, with his aiders and abettors, “ryotously, with force of armes, defensably in the forme of
warre arrayed, that is to saie, with Bowes, Arowes, Swerdes and Bylles, and other defensable wapenes, contynuelly duryng the
space of v yere and more, contrarie to the Lawes and peas of Oure Seid Lege Lord, that is to say, sith the Vjº daie of Octobre, the
seid xijºn yere, not havyng eny consideration or regarde to the Seid Recovere, Enbeselment or Acte, ocupied the said Manere,
contrarye to the seid Lawes, and to the evelle example off the Kynge oure Soveraigne Lorde Leiges in thos parties; and also daily
and myghtly robbed the seid Sir Rauff, his Tenaunts, and many other the Kynges Leiges, kynne and frendes to the said Sir Rauff.
of theire owne propre Goodes & Catalles, and with force entered in their lyvelott, and the same despoled.” For redress whereof
Sir Rauff in a petition to parliament in 19 [? 17] Edward IV. (1477) prays that he may have “als many Writte and Writtes of
Proclamation, as shal be to hym necessarie for the punition of the offenders, contrarie to the said Acte made the said xij" yere,
to be directe to the Shirreff of the Shire of Lancastre for the tym beynge, commaundynge hym by the same to make open, due,
and severalle Proclamation, in severalle Merkette Townes within the Seid Shire of Lancastre, that is to Saye, in Lancastre,
Manchestre, Weryngton, and Wegan, at severalle Merkette dayes, within the space of a Moneth next after the delivere of eny
such Writte or Writtes of Proclamation to hym so delivered, concerning the premisses or eny of theym, upon peyn of C fi, ; wherof
the one half be forfetted to the Kynges Hyghnesse, and the other halfe to the said Sir Rauf, comaundynge the said Roger Lever,
and every of the seid Riotours and Mysdoers afforewritten, by the same Writte and Writtes to appere in their propre personnes,
affor the Kynge in his Bench at Westm', at suche day or dayes as shal be conteyned in the said Writte or Writtes, theire to awnne-
swere and awnneswere in their propre personnes to the said Sir Rauf, to every Bille or Billes, Writte or Writtes, as shall be putte
thenne and their agenst theim or any of theym concernyge the premisses.” To this petitian the following answer was returned —
“Be it as desired, with the two exceptions here following.”*
This official exhibition of the early manners of some of the higher classes, continued for a period of five
years, serves to justify the epithet of “rude inhabitants of the County of Lancaster,” applied to them a cen-
tury afterwards by Dean Nowell.
In 19 James I. (1621) Sir Ralph Assheton stood possessed of the manor and estate of Great Lever,” which he sold about the
year 1629 to Dr. Bridgeman, bishop of Chester, whose eldest son, Sir Orlando Bridgeman, chief baron of the exchequer, and after-
wards lord keeper of the great seal, was the first Englishman advanced to the dignity of baronet by Charles II. after the Restoration,
by the name of Sir Orlando Bridgeman, of Great Lever, in the County of Lancaster. Sir Orlando Bridgeman, bart., the great-
grandson of the lord keeper, died in 1764, having married in 1719 Lady Anne Newport, the third daughter of Richard, earl of
Bradford, and eventually sole heir of her brother Thomas, on whose death, in 1762, his honours became extinct. Their son, Sir
|Henry, was created in 1794 Baron Bradford, of Bradford, in the county of Salop, and died in 1800, having married Elizabeth,
daughter and heir of John Simpson, esq., Orlando, their eldest surviving son, succeeded his father, and was created in 1815 Wiscount
Newport and Earl of Bradford, and on his death in 1825 was succeeded by his eldest son George Augustus-Frederick-Henry, the
present earl. In the short-hand M.S. notes of Dorning Rasbotham, esq., written 1788, we have the following account of the demo-
lition of Great Lever Hall, and of the condition at that time of the domestic chapel —
1 Placit. de Quo Warr. apud Lane. 20 Edw. I. Rot. 7. In the 3 See Rot. Parl. vol. vi. 12 and 13 Edw. IV. n. 37.
Chapter House, Westminster. 4 Ibid. p. 181.
2 Esc. 43 Edw. III. n. 2. * Duchy Records, vol. xxiii. Inquis. post mortem, 19 Jac. T. n. 63.
#umbrel of Šalfort—ſºlittleton arish, 481
“The whole property of the township is at present vested in Sir Henry Bridgeman. Great Lever Hall was, during the time of the
sequestration, if I have not been misinformed, the seat of Bishop Bridgeman. A great part of the house was, betwixt twenty and thirty
years ago, to prevent the expense of repairs, demolished; but the sloped walks of the garden are yet apparent, and there is yet a decent
domestic chapel, of which no use is now made, but in which, before the twentieth of his late majesty, marriages were solemnised. At the
end opposite to the altar, to which there is an ascent of two steps, is a gallery formerly for the use of the family; and a bench runs
round the chapel below, as I imagine, for that of the tenants and servants. It has a small, neat, carved pulpit, and upon the windows
are various inscriptions. The length of the chapel is about nine, and its breadth about six yards.”
In the township of Great Lever, a new church was built in 1851, dedicated to St. Michael. It is a
parliamentary district and perpetual curacy, the Rev. T. Loxham (1851) incumbent. It has 370 sittings, 134
free ; its value, £160 ; patron, the earl of Bradford. Schools for boys and girls are connected with the
church.
The THoRNHAM ESTATE was transferred to Mr. Milne on the 31st day of December 1862. The area is
1794 acres 2 roods and 31 perches.
The following particulars appeared in an advertisement for the sale of the advowson, in July 1861 —
“The tithe rent-charge has been commuted at e tº . £4.42 19 6
Deduct tithe rent-charge relinquished by Lord Suffield to the Ecclesias- } 33 5 6
tical commissioners & & g e * t º §
• #409 14 0
Farm Tenants * e º g g ſº & & * & 653 () ()
The Rector's share of revenue from coal and minerals . * & & 42 10 0
An accumulated sum held in trust . § § * te & º 15 0 0
#1120 4 0
Being £170 more than the amount stated page 471 Supra. The rectory includes the house, out-buildings,
pleasure-grounds, orchards, and land, containing (including the sites of the church, new burial-ground, etc.)
17 acres 0 roods 16 poles, of the estimated annual value of £100.
3 Q
482 Qſìje #t3turn of £antagjire.
RO CHIDALE PARISH.
ºHIS is one of the most extensive parishes in the hundred of Salford, and is situated at the
º º eastern extremity of that hundred, as well as of the county of Lancaster. Its ecclesiastical
**** arrangement places it in the archdeaconry and deanery of Manchester. The parish of
'A Rochdale was anciently divided into four sections: Honorsfeild, or Hundersfield, to the east ;
Spotland, to the west; Castleton, to the south-west ; and Butterworth to the south-east.
Rº Butterworth and Castleton still constitute distinct townships of the parish ; Spotland forms
two divisions, called Spotland Further-side and Spotland Nearer-side, including Whitworth and Brandwood;
and Hundersfield forms four divisions—namely, Blatchinworth and Calderbrook, Todmorden and Walsden,
Wardleworth, and Wuerdale and Wardle. Rochdale has no township bearing its own name ; the town is
composed of a part of three townships—namely, Castleton or Old Town, Spotland, and Hundersfield. The
parish of Rochdale is partly in the West Riding of Yorkshire, has an area of 58,620 statute acres, and
the entire parish contains 119,531 persons.
The population in 1861 of these townships was:–Butterworth, 6704; Castleton, 23,771; Spotland,
30,378; Wardleworth, 17,840; Wuerdle and Wardle, 8201 ; and Blatchinworth with Calderbrook, 4860.
The population of the municipal borough of Rochdale was 38,114; of the parliamentary borough, 38,184.
Several learned conjectures have been formed as to the etymology of Rochdale, all equally inconclusive
and unsatisfactory. It is not improbable that the town derives its name from the river Roch, on which it
stands, and that the river takes its appellation from a fresh-water fish, found perhaps in its streams, when
they were less contaminated than at present by the refuse of manufactories, or from Roche (French) the
rocky river. It is evident, from the Domesday Survey, that Rochdale may claim an antiquity as high at
least as Saxon times, and it is probable that Castleton, one of its component parts, was the site of a Saxon
castle.
In the “Status de Blagborneshire,” written in the fourteenth century, it is represented that before the
Conquest the common opinion held and asserted that as many towns, manses, or manors, as there were, so
many lords were there, not only in Blackburnshire, but also in Rochdale, Tottington, and Boland, and the
adjacent district, of whom none held of another, but all in chief of the king. From the Domesday Survey it
appears that one of these lords was Gamel, the thane who held, under Edward the Confessor, two hides in
Recedham (Rochdale), free from all duties but the following:—theft, inveigling of servants, obstructing the
king's road, breach of peace, not keeping the term set him by the reeve, and continuing a fight after oath
given to the contrary; the fines for these offences were forty shillings. The rest of these lands were free from
all customs except danegeld, and they were partly free from that impost.” By gift of Roger de Poictou,
according to the same record, Gamel had two carucates of land here ; and his son, or descendant, took the
name of Rachdale. Gamel is believed to have been the progenitor of Agnes, the daughter and co-heiress of
de Rachdale, who married Sir John Savile, according to the manuscript and printed pedigrees of the
latter family. In the monkish “Historia Laceiorum,” we find that William the Conqueror gave (probably
on the forfeiture of Roger de Poictou) to Sir Ilbert de Lacye, who had accompanied him from Normandy, the
lordship of Blackburnshire, together with the lordship and Honor of Pontefract, and many other possessions.
That some of the lands lay in the district of Rochdale is to be inferred, but no existing record actually proves
the fact. In 1178 John de Lacye, constable of Chester, founded the abbey of Stanlaw; and his son Roger,
in 1194, conferred upon that house the advowson of the church of Rochdale. In 7 Henry III. (1223), John de
Elland and John de Lacy were the joint lords of the manor, and the share of the former was afterwards vested
by marriage in the Saviles of Elland, in the adjoining parish of Halifax. In 1250 Edmund de Lacy, the king's
page (Valletus Regis), obtained a charter for a market and fair in his manor of Rachdall.” By an inquisition
taken in 3 Edward II. (1309-10), Henry de Lacye is found to possess the manor of Castleton, in Rochdale.” On
1 A portion of the valley below Castle-hill is called Kill-Dames,
from a vast number of the Danish invaders having, according to
tradition, fallen a sacrifice to their temerity in this valley. About
sixty years ago, when some labourers were at work near this place,
they discovered a curiously-wrought sword, and several pieces of
ancient armour, which, from their appearance, had lain many cen-
turies beneath the surface.—Nuttall's MS. Mr. Dearden thought
they were not older than the seventeenth century, H.
* These privileges were probably conferred by the castle.
8 Rot. Chart. 35 Hen. III. pars Unica, mem. 15.
4 The great De Lacy inquisition of 4 Edward II. (1311) has the
following in reference to the several townships in the parish of
Rochdale —“In Castleton there are six messuages lying Waste,
each worth yearly 1s. 3d. ; sum, 6s. 6d. The said [Henry de Lacy]
earl of Lincoln held there the fourth part of a water-mill, Worth
yearly, payable at the feast of St. Martin [? Nov. 11], 4s. A weekly




#umbrel of $alfort—13.ncjbaſe #arisiſ. 483
the death of his daughter and heiress, Alice, relict of Thomas, earl of Lancaster (who had been divorced from
her lord on account of her alleged familiarity with Ebulo le Strange, son of Lord Strange, of Knocking),
Henry, earl of Lancaster, came into possession of the family inheritance in Rochdale, Tottington, and other
parts of this county; and so this moiety of the manor became merged in the crown. The other moiety
continued in the Savile family, and was given by Sir Henry Savile to his base son, Sir Robert Savile of
Howley, who dying intestate in 1538, this share of the manor fell to the crown for want of an heir, and thus
the two moieties became again united."
In the haughty spirit of the ancient barons, Henry de Lacy, earl of Lincoln, by his bailiff of the manor of
Rochdale, resisted the authority of the sheriff of Lancashire; and declared that if the king's officers presumed
to make distresses for debt in this manor, he would resist their authority by force, “placing posse against
posse.” For the investigation of these proceedings, an inquisition was instituted and made in full County,
before the sheriff and the keeper of the crown-pleas, in the 4th of Edward I. (1276), by Benedict Gernet
and others, who reported that the authority of the king had been resisted, and that the sheriff's officers,
though duly appointed, had not been permitted to make their distress. Eight years afterwards similar
impediments were interposed by Gilbert de Clifton, the earl of Lincoln's bailiff for the manor of Rochdale,
when a fresh inquiry was instituted, and the jury pronounced in favour of the king.” A Latin MS. in Dods-
worth's Collection (Oxford Bib. Bod. v. clzi), Sans date, but written after the death of Edmund Crouchback,
the youngest Son of Henry III., describes the old town as the site of a castle ; and in another ancient MS. y
written in the reign of Edward III., the district is thus described :—
“Rachedale, of old called Racheham, is a certain district, more than xii. miles long, and more than x. miles broad ; it
comprehends four rich villages, and many hamlets, with many great wastes in the Said villages and hamlets, which are Honorisfield
(now called Hundersfield), Spoddenland (now called Spotland), Buckworth (now called Butterworth), and Castleton.” The MS.
already quoted from Dodsworth's Collection is more comprehensive in its details, and, beginning at the north-eastern extremity of
the present parish, says —“Todmorden, with a great waste, is held of William de Haworth ; William holds it of Thomas de
Sayvile, and Thomas of our lord the king ; and the feoffees are as of the demesne of Lincoln, which indeed held this place in the
time of Edmund, earl of Lancaster, who held of the king. ... Walsden, with a great waste, is held of Robert Holt, and by him of
Thomas Sayvile. Honorisfield, Wardhull, Wardleworth, Spotland, Whyteworth, Healy, Chadwycke, Holynworke, Butterworth,
Clegg, Newbolde, and Burdshill (now called Bwersal). Castleton hamlet is the place called Castle-hill, and was formerly, as is
believed, the site of a castle, and had twelve burgesses, but is now in decay.” In the tenth year of the duchy of Lancaster (1361),
we find in the Duchy Records an appointment of justices (judges) to try malefactors for trespasses, in the cases of Bowland, Penhull,
Trawden, Rossendale, Romesgreve, and Rochdale.
At a period to which no precise date can be assigned, but probably about the date of the establishment
of surnames,” in the fourteenth century, the Ellands of Elland appear to have had possessions in Rochdale.
An Elland married the co-heiress of Whitworth of Whitworth, who bore the arms of Rachdale, and had
with her a moiety of the manor, which afterwards was vested by marriage in the Saviles of Elland, and “Rex
rents,” and “Savile rents,” occur in the earliest records of the manor, and at the same time." Grants of
freeholds there are none. They were copyholds, with chief rents and fines on deaths and succession, and
were enfranchised from time to time. -
In the Testa de Nevill (fol. 403), Roger de Laci is said to hold 5 knights' fees of the fee of Cliderhow,
which were in the king's hands, and Hugh de Eland to hold 3 carucates and 2 bovates of the tenement by
the payment of 48s, annually to the same Roger de Laci. These lands of the Elands might be partly in
Rochdale, but of that there is no positive evidence.
On the death of Sir Robert Savile, his moiety of the manor of Rochdale fell to the crown, as stated
above ; and Queen Elizabeth, in right of her duchy possessions and of the crown, continued or renewed the
demise to Sir John Byron, as appears from the following document:-
“Termino Hill. Ann. Regina Eliz. 30 (1585), &c. Whereas the Queen's Majesty, and her noble progenitors, have been and are
Seised in her highnesses demesne, as of fee, as in right of the Duchy of Lancaster, of and in the manor of Rochdale, with the appurten-
ances, in the county of Lancaster, and her Highness so being thereof seised, by her Grace's Letters Patent, under the Duchy Seal, bearing
date at Westminster, the 17th day of May (1585), in the 27th yeare of her Highnesses reign ; demised the said manor with appurtenances
to Sir John Byron and his assigns, from the feast of the annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, then last past, before the date of the
said Letters Patent, unto the end of 31 years.”
From the folio MS. of Dr. Kuerden it appears that in 20 Henry VII. (1505) the king, in consideration
of the services of Sir Peter Legh, knt.; conferred on him the office of steward of Blackburnshire, Tottington,
market on Wednesday, which, together with the stallage and toll, for an oxgang of land in Wolfstancestheton, homage and service of
is worth yearly 20s. A fair on the feast of Sts. Simon and Jude
[Oct. 28], worth, yearly, 10s. There is a three-weeks' court, worth
yearly, by estimation, 26s. 8d. There are certain free tenants, who
hold of the said earl divers tenements by certain yearly rents payable
at the feast of St. Martin in winter [Nov. 11]:—John de Balschagh,
for the service of Rochdale fee, yearly, 26s. 8d. John de Eland,
for one carucate in Hundresfeld, by homage and service of 60s.
Henry de Lagy of Cromely welbotham, for half-a-carucate in Spot-
land, the homage of 20s. The abbot of Whalley, for one oxgang
of land in Castleton, 6s. John de Byrom, for six acres of land in
Butterworth, by homage and service of 2s. Geffrey de Chadreton,
12d. Roger de Pilkington, for an oxgang of land in Pilkington,
homage and service of 12d. Certain oxgangs of land called Berkot-
hill, demised at will for 20s. Sum £9 : 5 : 6.”
* See Notitia, Cestriensis, ii. 121. From 1538 to 1625 the
Byrons were lessees of the manor.
* Both these records relate to the same offence and time, March
18, 1276.—H.
* According to Camden, local surnames were first used in Eng-
land under King Edward the Confessor, but they were not fully
established till the time of Edward II.
* See Coucher-Book of Whalley, vol. i. p. 157, note.
484 (Iije Đígtorg ºf £attrašijire.
Tochdale, and Clithero, within his county palatine of Lancaster, with all the rents and appurtenances, together
with the conduct and government of all his vassals, tenants, and servants, within those towns, and within the
members of the same, to have, exercise, or occupy the said office, by himself or deputy, from the feast of St.
Michael the Archangel during pleasure. This patent is dated at Lancaster, the 3d of March, in the 20th
year of the king's reign (1505). The doctor also preserves a claim of Nicholas Byron, without date, to the
serjeanty of the king's free court of Rochdale, and to have the execution of all attachments and distresses,
and all other things which belong to the king's bailiff there." This Nicholas appears to have been the grand-
father of Sir John Byron who had the grant of Newstead, temp. Henry VIII. .
In the 39 Elizabeth (1597), Sir John Byron styles himself “Farmer of the manor of Rochdale,” and is found
to make an annual payment to the crown as an acknowledgment for this grant, being a fee-farm rent to the
Honor of Clithero. In the 1st Charles I. (1625) a second lease from the crown having expired at the death
of Sir John Byron, in 1622, the manor of Rochdale passed from the crown to Edward and Robert Ramsay in
trust for the earl of Holderness, by whose authority it was conveyed by sale to Sir Robert Heath, the king's
attorney-general. In 9 Charles I. (1634) Sir Robert Heath mortgaged the manor to Sir John Byron ; and in
1638, by indenture, bearing date the 28th of June, in consideration of the sum of £2500 he conveyed it in
fee to Sir John and his heirs. During the Commonwealth these possessions were confiscated, but on the
Restoration they were restored, and the manor is found in 1660 in Richard Lord Byron.
The Byron family was established in England at the Conquest. Gospatrick held lands of Erneis de
Buron, in the county of York, as appears from the Domesday Survey. The Burons held also possessions at
that time in the counties of Nottingham, Derby, and Leicester. But it was not till towards the end of the
twelfth century that they became connected with the county of Lancaster, when Robert de Byron having
married Cecilia Clayton, the daughter and heiress of the lord of Clayton, in the hundred of Salford, became
possessed of the manor, and seated at the Hall. Failsworth, and the whole township of Droylesden, were
soon after added to their Lancashire estates. Sir John de Byron, in the reign of Edward I., on his marriage
with the lady Joan, daughter of Sir Baldwin Teutonicus or Tyas, relict of Sir Robert Holland, knt., became
possessed of lands in Butterworth ; and by a charter from Edward II., dated at York, in the first year of his
reign (1307-8), Sir Richard de Byron had grants to him and his heirs of free warren over all their demesne
lands in Clayton, Butterworth, and Royton, in the county of Lancaster. On the 1st June 1400, John, bishop
of Lichfield, granted a license to Sir John Byron, knt.; and dame Margaret, his wife, to have divine service
performed by fit chaplains within his oratories of Clayton and Butterworth, for three years.” Sir John Byron
fought in the battle of Bosworth Field, on the side of Henry VII., and was knighted on the field. In
the , reign of Henry VIII., on the dissolution of the monasteries, Newstead Abbey was granted to Sir
John Byron ; and this ancient religious house continued the principal seat of the Byrons till it was sold in
the year 1823, by George Gordon, Lord Byron, to Colonel Wildman. In the spirit-stirring times of Queen
Elizabeth, much of the waste land in the neighbourhood of Rochdale was reclaimed, and leased out at 4d. per
acre ; and it is recorded that in 1560 Sir John Byron enclosed two hundred and sixty acres of land on
Beurdsell Moor, and that Charles Holt, esq., enclosed two-thirds of the waste of Castleton Common.” In 1606
, the Byrons sold to their tenants nearly the whole of Beurdsell Moor."
In 1642, Sir John Byron was appointed by Charles I. lieutenant of the Tower, in opposition to the wish
of his parliament; and on 24th October in the following year he was created a peer of the realm, by the
title of Baron Byron of Rochdale. Lord Byron distinguished himself in the civil wars between Charles I.
and his parliament ; and, in consequence of his devotion to the royal cause, his manor of Rochdale was
sequestrated, and held for several years by Sir Thomas Alcock, who held courts here in 1654. The zeal of
Lord Byron in favour of the Stuarts was so conspicuous, that himself and the earl of Derby were two of the
Seven personages excepted from the clemency of the government in the “Act of Oblivion,” passed by parlia-
ment on the execution of the king. This nobleman fought with the Duke of Hamilton against Oliver Cromwell
on the 16th August 1648, in the disastrous battle of Preston. His lordship had not the consolation to live to
See the restoration of the Stuarts; but, dying without issue in 1652, was succeeded, according to the patent
of peerage, by his brother Richard, the second lord. On the death of the second Lord Byron, in 1679, he
was succeeded by his eldest son William, whose successor, in 1695, was his son William, who was succeeded
in 1736 by his son William, the fifth Lord Byron. This nobleman had the misfortune to kill William
Chaworth, esq., in a duel, on the 28th of January 1765, under circumstances which led to his impeachment
on a charge of murder, before the House of Peers, in Westminster Hall, on the 16th of April following; the
result of the trial was that he was found guilty of manslaughter, upon which he claimed the benefit of the
statute of Edward VI., and was discharged.” His lordship survived his impeachment thirty-three years, and
died, on the 19th of May 1798, without issue. Admiral John Byron, the brother of this baron, sailed in
his youth with Commodore Anson, the circumnavigator, and was cast away on an uninhabited island in the
1 4to MS. fol. 56. * See Lanc. MSS. vol. vi. where abstracts of all the sales are
* Reg. Bourghill Lich. Hist, Lanc. Chantr. p. 269. recorded.
3. Nuttall’s MSS. * A dispute had arisen at a tavern dinner between Lord Byron
#umbrely of $alfort—330rijbaſe #arisiſ. 485
Pacific Ocean, where, for five years, he endured hardships almost unheard of, except in the pages of romance.
On his return to England he distinguished himself in his profession, and attained the rank of vice-admiral,
leaving, at his death, which took place in 1786, two sons, John and George Anson. John married for
his second wife Catherine Gordon, lineally descended from the earl of Huntly and the princess Jane Stuart ;
the issue of this marriage was George Gordon, Lord Byron, the illustrious poet, who died of a fever at
Missolonghi, on the 19th of April 1824, lamented by the whole Greek nation, to whose glorious cause he
had devoted his fortune, his talents, and his life. His lordship having left an only child, Augusta Ada, by
his lady, Anne Isabella, daughter of Sir Ralph Noel (late Milbanke), bart., was succeeded in his title by his
cousin, George Anson, Baron Byron of Rochdale. [The Honourable Augusta Ada, only daughter of the late
Lord Byron, was married, by special licence, 8th July 1835, at Fordhook, to the Right Hon. Lord King,
afterwards Earl Lovelace of Rochdale. She died in 1852, leaving a son, Ralph Gordon Noel Milbanke, heir
to the earldom.] In the year 1823, Lord Byron sold the manor of Rochdale, being the last remnant of his
Lancashire property, to James Dearden, esq., by whose grandson and heir, James Griffith Dearden, esq., it is
now possessed. The manorial rights of Rochdale are reputed to extend over 33,734 statute acres of land,
with the privileges of court-baron and court-leet in all the townships of the parish, but excepting such
districts [] Brandwood] as Robert de Lacy gave to the abbots of Whalley.
Though Rochdale is mentioned in the Domesday Survey as the seat of a thane in the time of Edward
the Confessor, and though the town in that part now denominated Castleton was probably the site of a
Saxon fortress, no church is named in that survey. About 1170 Adam de Spotland gives and grants, in
the usual terms of ancient charters, “for the fear of God and the salvation of my soul, and the souls of my
wife and ancestors, to God, St. Mary, and all saints, and to St. Cedde and the church of Rachdale, three
acres of land in Watlond Wood, together with the houses there seated, two acres at Donyngbothe
(Dunnishbooth), and one at Chadwicke, with common of pasture and the liberties and easements belonging
to the town [vill] of Spotland.”" Thus showing that a church had risen at Rochdale. By a
second deed, the same benefactor, feeling probably that he had made a parsimonious gift for so much
present and future blessedness, further granted six acres of land in Spotland “to God, and St. Chad of
Rachetham.” At this period, Robert de Whalley, who died before 1193, was rector of Rochdale—probably
the first rector—and in that character executed a deed, by which the same lands were re-conveyed to Alex-
ander de Spotland, the heir of the original grantor, and his heirs, to be held of St. Cedda, the church of
Rachetham, and of him (Robert de Whalley) and of his successors in fee.' The Status de Blagborneshire
records that the rectors of Whalley of old were married, and were called deans, and not rectors or parsons,
and that they held the said church, together with the church of Rachdale, by hereditary right, so that the
son always succeeded his father, or the brother the brother, or the next of kin succeeded. Between the
years 1214 and 1223 Roger de Lacy gave his share of the advowson of the church of Rochdale to the abbey
of Stanlaw, which, previously to that period, was held in high estimation by the principal families in Rochdale ;
and Andrew, son of Alan de Merland, bequeathed all his lands in the village of Spotland “to God, the
blessed Mary, and the monks of Stanlaw, for ever to hold the said lands on a safe tenure.” When the
monastery of Stanlaw, which had nearly absorbed all the cultivated or enclosed land of this township, was
transferred to Whalley, in 1296, the possessions of the monks in the parish of Rochdale were also transferred
to the latter house ; and, from that time to the Reformation, they remained, with their subsequent accretions,
dependent upon Whalley. A vicarage was ordained at Rochdale by Roger de Meuland, bishop of Lichfield
and Coventry, 14 Kal. May 1277. In the Valor of Pope Nicholas TV., made in 1291, the living of Rochdale
is returned as of the annual value of £23: 6:8; though, upwards of two centuries afterwards, when the
valuation by order of Henry VIII. was made, it was then only returned at £11 : 4:9. In 1866 it was
stated to be of the value of £5000 and upwards.
After the dissolution of the monasteries, the church-lands of Spotland were granted by the crown to
Thomas Holt of Gristlehurst, esq., in the parish of Middleton, and were eventually sold in the next century
by Thomas Posthumus Holt to various purchasers. Henry VIII., in poor exchange for the manor and park
of Mayfield, and as a matter of royal extortion, gave the advowsons and also the rectorial tithes of Rochdale,
Whalley, and Blackburn, to Cranmer, archbishop of Canterbury, and his successors in the see. From the
Beformation to the early part of the present century, with the exception of the period of the Commonwealth,
the rectorial and vicarial tithes of Rochdale have been vested in the primate for the time being; but in 1813
the greater part of them were sold by Archbishop Manners-Sutton, under the authority of an act of parlia-
and Mr. Chaworth, upon that fruitful subject of quarrel and
litigation—the preservation of game. There were no witnesses of
the duel; but the account given of it by the dying man was this :
The altercation in the club-room had subsided, and seemed Scarcely
to be remembered by either party, but when Mr. Chaworth was
going down stairs, about an hour afterwards, Lord Byron called him
aside, and said he wished to speak to him, upon which they went
into an unoccupied room together, and, while Mr. Chaworth stepped
towards the door to shut it, Lord Byron bid him draw. On turning
round to obey this command, he saw his lordship's sword half out
of the scabbard, upon which he whipped out his own sword as
quick as possible, to give his lordship the point; and having made
a lunge at him, he asked how Lord Byron was, whether he was
mortally wounded, as he thought he was about the breast. His
lordship, without making any reply, shortened his sword, and ran
his antagonist through the body, thereby inflicting a mortal wound,
of which he died the next morning.—State Trials. -
1 Whitaker's Whalley, p. 438.
486 (ſiſt #igturn ºf £aittagüirº.
ment, and were principally purchased by the owners of the titheable estates for the sum of £63,426. The
glebe-land extends more than a mile along the left bank of the Roch; it consists of upwards of 167 acres, on
which have been erected a great number of houses and other buildings, under the authority of an act of
parliament obtained in 1763, authorising the vicar of Rochdale, for the time being, to grant leases for 99
years. In 1866 the glebe-lands and other property of the vicarage were vested by 29 and 30 of Vict. c. 86,
in the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for England, for making provision for the endowment of the said vicarage
in lieu thereof, and for the promotion of other ecclesiastical purposes connected therewith. By this measure,
after the next avoidance of the benefice, the endowment of the living is limited to £1500 per annum, and the
patronage of five benefices. The bishop of Manchester is patron of the vicarage of Rochdale in right of his
see, and also of twelve other parish churches formerly annexed to the mother church of Rochdale.
From the parliamentary inquisition, made in 1650, it appears that the value of the glebe-land, etc., in
Rochdale, was then but £160 per annum, and the tithes of Castleton worth £50; and that Hundersfield had
at that time two chapels—namely, Littleborough and Todmorden—both of which the commissioners recom-
mended should be made parish churches. The tithes of Hundersfield were then worth £100 a-year, out of
which Mr. Thomas Bradshaw, the minister of Littleborough, had his maintenance, and Mr. Francis Core, the
minister of Todmorden, “a well-qualified minister, but of scandalous life and conversation,” had £20 a-year,
and a house worth 6s. 8d. per annum. In Spotland there was one chapel called Whitworth, the great tithes
attached to which were worth about £26 per annum, independent of the sequestrated tithes, which were worth
about £65 per annum. In Butterworth, there was one chapel called Milnrow ; the minister, Mr. John
Pollett, received £50 out of the sequestrated tithes, together with £4: 10s. (£3 : 6:8 was a charge on the
rectory, and paid by Byron as the lessee), paid out of the same by the late Sir John Byron ; and Butterworth
was fit to be made a parish, the value of the tithes being £66 : 13: 4. [Archbishop Parker, in renewing a
lease, increased the original endowment withheld by Byron (1530), and made it a charge upon the rectory,
held by Sir John.] ...”
The filial dependencies of the mother church of Rochdale were numerous, comprehending the churches of
St. Mary' and St. James, in Rochdale; the churches of Saddleworth,” Friarmere, Dobcross, and Lidgate," in
Saddleworth ; [Christ Church, Friezland, consecrated 1850, in the patronage of R. R. Whitehead, esq., and
Christ Church, Denshaw, consecrated 1863, in the patronage of Henry Gartside, esq., are also in Saddleworth,
in the West Riding of Co. York]; and Littleborough (Holy Trinity), Milnrow (St. James), and Todmorden
(St. Mary), in the Lancashire part of the parish ; Christ Church, Todmorden, consecrated 1832; St. John's,
Smallbridge, consecrated 1834; St. Clement's, Spotland, consecrated 1835; St. Peter's, Walsden, consecrated
1848; Christ Church, Healey, consecrated 1850; St. Alban's, consecrated 1856; St. James', Wardle, conse-
crated 1858; St. Paul's, Norden, consecrated 1861 ; St. Martin's, Castleton Moor, consecrated 1862.
The parish church, which is in a late debased style of architecture, with a low square tower, exhibits
a few indications of considerable antiquity. The columns and arches resemble those in the choir of
the cathedral of Canterbury, and are as ancient as the original structure. The nave and south aisle are
comparatively modern, having been rebuilt about the reign of Henry VIII., but the north aisle, lately
rebuilt, had the appearance of a much earlier date. The choir, with its richly-ramified window, recently filled
with stained glass, is of the age of Edward III., perhaps a little earlier, and the architecture of the steeple
is about the period of the Reformation. This edifice, approached on the north by a large flight of stone steps,
is dedicated to St. Chad, and commands, from its elevated situation, a fine view, stretching beyond its own
ample possessions, along the densely-inhabited district of the vale of Roch. An additional cemetery, near
the church, planted round with elms, and intersected with gravel walks, was consecrated in 1813, during the
incumbency of the Rev. Thomas Drake, D.D., in which his parishioners erected an elegant monument, as a
tribute of veneration and regard to the memory of a beloved pastor, who, after having for nine-and-twenty
years faithfully discharged the duties of his ministerial office as vicar of this parish, died on the 19th of
September 1819. This burial-ground was closed by an order of council in 1855. t
In the interior of the church, at the east end of the south aisle, is the chantry of the Holy Trinity,
founded by indenture, dated 24th September 1487, by Dr. Adam Marland of Marland, Sir Randal Butter-
worth of Belfield, and Sir James Middleton." A moiety of this chapel was purchased of James Marland of
Marland, gent., by Alexander Butterworth of Belfield, esq., in 1665 (the owner of the other moiety), along
with a seat within it belonging to the Buckleys of Buckley, and was the place of their interment. In 1728
the chapel passed by devise to Richard Townley, gent., by whose descendant, R. G. Townley of Belfield, esq.,
it was sold in 1823 to James Dearden, esq.” At the east end of the north aisle was St. Katherine's chantry,
founded before 1516 apparently by the Chadwick family of Healey Hall.” Several ancient gravestones of the
1 Consecrated in 1744. ? In 1821. exercised the right of nominating the incumbents, but he had no
claims upon the parishioners.
3 About the year 1200, the chapel of Saddleworth, dedicated to 4 Consecrated in 1768. * In 1787. 6 In 1788.
St. Chad, was built for the use of his tenants, by William de 7 Gastrell’s Notitia Cestriensis, vol. ii. p. 123.
Stapleton, lord of the soil, subject to “St. Chedde of Rachedam.” 8 Lanc. MSS. vol. xiii. p. 438.
Since the dissolution of Whalley Abbey, the vicar of Rochdale has 9 Hist. Lanc, Chantries, vol. ii. p. 270.
#umbrel of $alfort—330rſ/balt 33arigly. 487
Halliwells of Pyke House in the middle aisle, and of the vicars within the communion-rails, and some mural
tablets of the more distinguished of the parishioners—amongst others, the Holts, the Chadwicks, the Walmsleys,
the Entwisles, and the Smiths—are placed in the church ; and on the south side of the chancel is a marble
tablet, erected by John Entwisle, esq., in 1807, to the memory of Sir Bertine Entwisle, thus inscribed—
“To perpetuate a memorial, erected in the church of St. Peter, at St. Albans (perished by time), this marble is here placed to the memory
of a gallant and loyal man, Sir Bertine Entwisle, Knight, Wiscount, & Baron of Brybeke, in Normandy, and some time
Bailiff of Constantine, in which office he succeeded his father-in-law Sir John Ashton, whose daughter first married Sir Richard
le Byron, an ancestor of the Lords Byron, Barons of Rochdale ; and secondly Sir Bertine Entwisel, who, after repeated acts of
valour in the service of his sovereigns, Henry the 5th & 6*, more particularly at Agincourt, was killed in the first battle at St.
Alban’s, & on his tomb stone was recorded, in brass, the following inscription : ‘Here lyeth Sir Bertin Entwisel, Knighte, who
was born in Lancastershyre, & was Wiscount & Baron of Brybeke, in Normandy ; and Bailiff of Constantine, who died fighting
on King Henry the Sixth party, the 28* May 1455, on whose soul Jesu have mercy.
5 : 5
RECTORS AND WICARS OF ROCHDALE.
(From Dr. Whitaker's History of Whalley, with additions and corrections from the Rev. Canon Raines's Lancashire MSS.)
- RECTORS.
Robert, son of Geoffry, dean of Whalley.
Geoffry, the elder, dean of Whalley, after the death of Robert
his son, and before the year 1193. f
WICARS.
Geoffry, the younger, dean of Whalley, resigned about 1230.
William de Dumplinton, died 1238.
Sir John de Blackburn.
Robert, Vicar of Rochdale, in the reign of Henry III.
Roger, Vicar of Rachdale, 1307.
Richard de Parbold, instituted 1312, ob. 1317.
Thomas de Boulton, instituted 1317.
Simon de Chester, inducted 1319.
Sir Thomas de Dalton, 1331, ob. 1350.
Raphe de Dewsbury, presented 1350.
Ralph de Trumpington, 1361.
Roger, son of William le Manchester, instituted 1369, resigned.
John Fithler, 1388, died in 1401.
John de Salley, monk of Whalley, 1402.
Bic. de Twysfeld, 1403, resigned 1426.
Henry de Marland, 1426, died 1455-6.
Richard Salley, 1456, died 1470.
Thomas Brotherton, 1471, resigned 1473.
John Walton, instituted 1473, died 1483.
William Asheton, 1483.
Nicholas Townley, 1510.
Sir Gilbert Haydock, occurs 1530–1547.
Stephen Smith, 1552, died 1554.
John Hampson, occurs 1558, ejected 3 Elizabeth, 1561.
Richard Gorstelow, presented 1554.
Richard Midgley, M.A., inducted 3 Eliz., resigned 1595, died
1609. -
Joseph Midgley, M.A., collated 1595, deprived 1606, died 1637.
Richard Kenyon, M.A., collated 1606-7, died 1615.
Henry Tilson, D.D., collated 1615 to 1635 ; afterwards bishop
of Elphin, died 1655.
Robert Bath, A.M., collated 1635, deprived 1662.
Henry Pigot, B.D., collated 1662, died 1722.
Samuel Dunster, D.D., collated 1722, died 1754.
Nathaniel Forster, 1 D.D., collated 1754, died 1757.
James Tunstall, D.D., collated 1757, died 1762.
Thomas Wray, D.D., collated 1762, died 1778.
Richard Hind, D.D., collated 1778, died 1790.
Thomas Drake, D.D., collated 1790, died 1819.
William Robert Hay, M.A., collated 1819, died 1839.
John Edward Nassau Molesworth, D.D., collated 1839.
In addition to the notices of the parish church and its affiliated dependencies, already given, a list is
subjoined of the existing churches in the parish in November 1867, with the date of their erection or conse-
cration; their incumbents, with the year of their admission ; the value and patron of the living ; the number
of sittings in the churches, and how many are free –St. Chad, parish church, existing in 1170, restored in
1857; Rev. J. E. N. Molesworth, D.D., vicar (1839), value £4000; patron, the bishop of Manchester; 786
sittings, of which 750 are free. Connected with it, besides Sunday schools, are one boys' and one infants'
day-school. St. Bartholomew, Whitworth, erected 1653, rebuilt 1850; Rev. J. Gaitskell (1842); a parish and
vicarage, value £307; patrons, three trustees; 1146 sittings, of which 600 are free. One day-school for girls
and boys. St. James, Milnrow, existing in 1400, rebuilt 1798, and enlarged in 1814, a parish ; Rev. F. R.
Raines (hon, canon), vicar (1832), value £500; patron, the vicar of Rochdale; 1000 sittings, 500 free. One
boys' and one girls' day-school. St. Mary, Wardleworth, built 1744, a parish ; Rev. R. N. Sharpe, vicar
(1857), value £300 ; patron, the vicar of Rochdale ; 890 sittings, of which 445 are free. One boys' and
one girls' day-school. Holy Trinity, Littleborough, erected 1471, rebuilt 1820, a parish ; Rev. T. Carter, vicar
(1864), value £300 ; patron, the vicar of Rochdale; 1000 sittings, of which 500 are free. One day-school
for girls and boys. St. James, Wardleworth, built 1821, a parish ; the Rev. R. S. Rowan (1863), vicar,
value £300 ; patron, the vicar of Rochdale ; 1000 sittings, of which 500 are free. St. John, Smallbridge,
1834, a parish ; the Rev. R. K. Cook, vicar (1839), value £300; patron, the present vicar of Rochdale,
afterwards the bishop of Manchester; 1010 sittings, of which 610 are free. Three day-schools for girls and
boys, and one for infants. St. Clement, Spotland, 1835, a parish ; Rev. W. N. Molesworth, vicar (1844), value
£500 ; patron, the present vicar of Rochdale, afterwards the bishop. Christ Church, Healey, 1850, a new
parish ; Rev. R. Minnitt, vicar (1850), value £200 ; patron, the crown and the bishop alternately ; 1250
1 His epitaph, in Bristol Cathedral, of which he was a prebendary, and where he was interred, represents Dr. Forster as “a very worthy
man, who deserved to be proposed as an example of multifarious praise ;” but a Rochdale wit, less indulgent to his pastor's memory,
penned for his epitaph the following inscription —
“Full three feet deep, beneath this stone,
Lies our late vicar, Forster, - f
Who clipt his sheep to th’ very bone,
But Said no paternoster.”
488 Qſìjr 3%istorm ºf 3Lancashire.
sittings, of which 500 are free. One day-school for girls and boys. St. James the Apostle, Wardle, 1858, a
parish ; Rev. J. Ducker, vicar (1858), value £200 ; patron, the vicar of Smallbridge ; 535 sittings, of which
385 are free. One day-school for girls and boys. St. Alban, Castleton, 1856, a parish ; Rev. J. W. Parker,
vicar (1856), value £300; patron, the vicar of Rochdale. St. Paul, Norden, 1861, a parish ; Rev. E. H.
Cooke, vicar (1868), value £200 ; patron, the present vicar of Spotland, afterwards the bishop ; 524
sittings, of which 290 are free. One day-school for girls and boys. St. Mary, Balderstone, 1865, a Peel
district and perpetual curacy; Rev. J. R. Parr, incumbent (1865), value £150 ; patrons, four trustees. St.
Martin, Blue Pits, 1862; Rev. J. C. Bates. All Saints, Hamer, 1866, perpetual curacy; Rev. J. A. Lobley,
curate, value £200 ; patron, the bishop ; 651 sittings, of which 354 are free. One day-school for girls and
boys. Besides the above, there are three buildings used as schools, at Town Mill Brow, Rochdale ; at Newhey,
near Milnrow ; and at Facit, near Whitworth ; in all of which divine service is conducted by curates. At
Calderbrook a small church has been erected, but is not yet (November 1867) consecrated.
The chapels and other places of worship in the town and the Poor-law Union of Rochdale, and the Sunday-schools connected
therewith, are as follows, taking them, each denomination, in the Order of foundation —Unitarians.—Founded about 1700 (two
chapels). Blackwater Street; the first meeting-house used by the nonconformists was on this site; the second building was erected
in 1717. The present edifice was built in 1856, and has 200 sittings; Rev. T. Carter, minister, 1867. Clover Street or Spotland
Road, built 1818, 320 sittings, 133 members, 275 Sunday-scholars; Rev. J. Freeston (1867). Wesleyan Methodists.--This body
was first established in Rochdale about 1750. Their first meeting-room was at Waterside, about twenty yards east of the tower of
the new town-hall; the next was in Temple Street. The first chapel (afterwards a theatre) was on the site of the co-operative
store in Toad Lane. The second chapel, in Union Street, was erected in 1772 on the present site. Chapels were erected, one at
Littleborough in 1806, one at Lower Place in 1814, and one at Castleton Moor in 1816. There are (1867) 2 chapels in the town, and
13 others within the Union district, viz. –Union Street (built 1825), 1320 sittings, and Castlemere (1865), 1050 sittings; the
former 737, and the latter 314 Sunday-scholars. Littleborough (1866), 600 sittings, 269 scholars. Wardle (1808), 350 sittings,
151 scholars. Bagslate (1810), 450 sittings, 380 scholars. Lower Place (1856), 550 sittings, 320 scholars. Castleton Moor or
Blue Pits (1862), 1320 sittings, 140 scholars. Milnrow (1817), 200 sittings, 139 scholars. Rakewood (1820), 100 sittings, 95
scholars. Healey Stones (1822), 100 sittings, 114 scholars. Broad Lane (1824), 200 sittings, 98 scholars. Temple (1839), 150
sittings, 128 scholars. Lanehead (1857), 200 sittings, 145 Scholars. Smallbridge, 120 sittings. Dearnley, a preaching-room, 130
sittings, 84 scholars. Shawforth (1818, and undergoing enlargement 1867), 450 sittings, 254 scholars. Facit (1863 and 1867), 540
sittings, 296 scholars. In all, this body numbers 657 town and 1788 country members. New Conneacion Methodists.-Originated
1819, 3 chapels. Water Street (1834), 364 sittings, 127 members, 333 scholars. Mount Gilead, 200 sittings. Shawclough, 180
sittings. Together, 71 members and 258 scholars. A chapel was erected in College Street in 1822, and they are building one (1867)
in Molesworth Street, to have 600 sittings. Primitive Methodists.--This body assembled originally in King Street, then called
Packer Meadow, and in 1829 they built a chapel in Drake Street, now used as a music-hall. They have (1867) 8 chapels, viz. –
Smith Street (1864), 800 sittings, 183 members, 400 Sunday-scholars. Bamford (1835); Bridge Mill (1857), 300 sittings;
Crawford Street (1854), 350 ; Stubley (1856), 438; Haugh (1862), 256; and Smallbridge (1866), 400. These seven last named
have an aggregate of 331 members and 999 scholars. United Methodist Free Church.-This body, as formed in 1835, bore the name
of the Wesleyan Methodist Association, but afterwards took their present name on uniting with the Wesleyan Reformers a few years
ago. They have chapels in Baillie Street (1837), 1600 sittings, 1240 Sunday-scholars; and Castlemere (1865), 1250 sittings, 525
scholars, 926 members. Bagslate, built 1837, enlarged 1864; 300 sittings, 290 scholars. Littleborough, first chapel in 1837, the
present one built 1866; 650 sittings, 358 scholars. Lower Place (1837), 450 sittings, 480 scholars. Smallbridge (1836), 300 sittings,
188 scholars. Whitworth (1837), 300 sittings, 274 scholars. Pottery (1817, but purchased in 1866 by the United Methodist
Free Church), 200 sittings, 74 scholars. Spotland (1841, and enlarged 1862), 300 sittings, 314 scholars. Red Lumb (1848), 926
sittings, 170 scholars. Milnrow (1851, and enlarged 1864), 400 sittings, 304 scholars. Lowerfold (1852), 300 sittings, 301 scholars.
Watergrove (1853), 250 sittings, 170 scholars. Greenhill (1853), 200 sittings, 139 scholars. Brimrod (1854, and enlarged 1866),
300 sittings, 242 scholars. Belfield (1857, and the school added in 1866), 200 sittings, 187 scholars. Hamer (1862), 400 sittings,
306 scholars. Smithy Lane (1863), 250 sittings, 156 scholars. There are also rooms hired for religious worship at Whitworth
Road, 600 sittings, 297 scholars; Polly Green, 100 sittings; Blue Pits, 100 sittings; and there is also service in the Spotland and
Wardleworth Workhouse. Totals—members 926 town, 1122 country; Sunday-scholars, 1765 town, 4150 Union. Methodists (?)—Two
distinct bodies with no distinctive name, but Methodists in usage, have two chapels, one in Holland Street (1854), originating in
1852, 500 sittings, 85 members; and the other in Elliott Street (1859), 200 sittings. Baptists.-The first Baptists in Rochdale
originated about 1775, meeting in a room near the westerly end of what is now Baillie Street. Next they erected a chapel in
Town Meadows about 1780, the graveyard of which still exists. In 1783 they erected a chapel at Ogden, which was succeeded
in 1862 by the present structure. They have (1867) six chapels, viz. –West Street (1832), 750 sittings, 166 members, 420
scholars; Rev. S. Chapman (1867), minister. Hope Street (1810, rebuilt 1848), 730 sittings, 160 members, 274 scholars; Rev.
J. Kershaw (1817), minister. Drake Street (1854), 600 sittings, 126 members, 320 scholars; Rev. A. Pitt, minister. Lyceum
Preaching-room, 70 members and 100 scholars. Ogden (1862), 600 sittings, 171 members, 380 scholars; Rev. L. Nuttall (1859),
minister. Cutgate (1845), 200 sittings, 150 scholars. Independents.-This body has (1867) six chapels —Providence, High
Street (1806), 750 sittings, 115 members, 443 scholars; Rev. J. M. Cappin (1867), minister. Milton Church, Smith Street (1854),
1000 sittings, 189 members, 406 scholars; Rev. H. Parkinson (1852), minister. Smallbridge (1865), 750 sittings, 150 members,
330 scholars; Rev. R. Hall (1867), minister. Calderbrook (1834, 380 sittings, 44 members, 100 scholars; Rev. S. Sugden,
minister. Hall Fold (1849), 800 sittings, 115 members, 425 scholars; Rev. J. Oddy (1867), minister. The old chapel, which is
still remaining, was built in 1718, according to some as a Presbyterian chapel, but it has been occupied by the Independents for
many years. Milnrow, built 1862, 400 sittings, 30 members, 200 scholars; Rev. J. Douglas (1866), minister. Countess of
Huntingdon's Connexion.—Originated in 1810. Their chief chapel is St. Stephen's, Ball Street (1812), 960 sittings, 126 members
and several communicants, 420 scholars; Rev. E. C. Lewis (1838), minister. Shawclough (1824) is now occupied by the New
Connexion Methodists, and Milnrow Chapel (1863). United Presbyterian Church (1866).-Building a chapel in the Manchester
Road (1867-8), to have 850 sittings; 315 scholars; Rev. A. H. Drysdale (1867), minister. They assemble temporarily in the
British Schools, Baillie Street. Friends’ Society in Rochdale, formed in 1808.-Meeting-house, George Street (1807), 300 sittings,
73 members. Roman Catholics.-Established in 1815. Two chapels in Rochdale. St. John's, Belle Street (1829), 700 sittings,
250 scholars; Rev. J. Dowling, priest. St. Patrick's, Watts Street (1867), 800 sittings, 350 scholars; Rev. J. Dowling (1839),
Rev. M. Moriarty (1861), priests. In Facit the church of the Immaculate Conception, founded 1860, with a temporary erection,
the chapel now building (November 1867), 200 sittings, 80 scholars; Rev. John Milward (1860), priest. A place of worship of no
distinctive name was erected in Nuttall Street in 1859. It has 200 sittings and about 100 scholars.
In the parish of Rochdale, as in almost all the other parishes of Lancashire, the rise of dissenters is to be dated from the
passing of the Act of Uniformity in the reign of Charles II. On this occasion the Rev. Robert Bath, vicar of Rochdale, a nephew

#umbret of Šalfort—330th baſe arish. 489
by marriage of Archbishop Laud, was ejected from the church, when, after holding his living twenty-seven years, he retired from
the humble vicarage to the still humbler cottage, at Deepleech Hill in Castleton, and frequently preached to crowded congregations
up to the period of his death, which took place eleven years after his assignation of the living. This divine, who had been educated
and ordained a member of the Church of England, renounced his early principles and became a member of the second presbyterical
classis in the time of the commonwealth, and represented the parish of Rochdale, along with Edward Butterworth, esq. of Belfield,
and several other laymen of the parish. The Rev. Zechariah Taylor was the grammar-schoolmaster and curate of Mr. Bath, and
was ejected in 1662, at the same time as his vicar. He afterwards taught a school at Bolton, being the first master of the School
erected there by Mr. Robert Lever, citizen and clothier of London ; from thence he removed to the free grammar-school at Kirkham
in the Fylde, where he died in 1692. This learned divine was father of Mr. Zechariah Taylor, M.A., rector of Croston, who wrote
the Lancashire Levite, and was the opponent of all his father's nonconformist views and opinions. In connection with the rise of
dissent in Rochdale, it may be stated that a Presbyterian chapel existed in the town previous to the erection of the chapel in
Blackwater Street, but its situation is not known. The Rev. Oliver Heywood and Henry Pendlebury preached in Rochdale
occasionally, soon after the Restoration in 1660; and Mr. Joseph Dawson, who died in 1739, was minister there in 1706. Black-
water Street Chapel was built during his ministry. Mr. Richard Scholfield, who died in 1740, was minister there a short time.
Mr. Owens was his successor. Dr. Hopkins, who died in 1754, was probably his successor. Mr. Hassall was minister for a few
years, and was followed in 1779 by Mr. Thomas Threlkeld; he died in 1806. Mr. Marshall, the successor of Mr. Threlkeld, was
succeeded by Mr. Richard Astley. His successor in 1815 was Mr. G. W. Elliot. There were several ministers after Mr. Elliot,
and in 1862-3 the charge was vacant. In 1863 the Rev. James Pillars became the minister; in 1865 the Rev. T. H. Smith ; and
in 1867 the Rev. T. Carter, the present minister. Another Unitarian chapel in Clover Street had for its minister in 1862 Rev. J.
Briggs, and in 1867 the Rev. J. Freeston, the present minister.
The parish registers of Rochdale, which date from 1582, while they afford original entries of civil or
magisterial marriages during the English Commonwealth, show also that the ceremony of publishing the
banns on three successive Sundays was observed, both “at the market-cross,” and also in the same way as
when the ordinance was purely ecclesiastical. .
An inquisition taken in the year 1610, and preserved in the MS. of Mr. Collier (Tim Bobbin), discloses
the boundaries of the parish of Rochdale, as they stood at that time, and is expressed in the following
terms :-
“Boun DARY OF THE PARISH.—From an Inquisition taken at Rochdale, in the year of the reign of our Sovereign Lord James, by
the Grace of God, King of England, France, and Ireland, Defender of the Faith, &c., of England the 7th, and of Scotland the 43d, 13th
of November 1610, before William Curzell, Esq., the King's Majesty's attorney, by us: Robert Heywood, Abm. Belfield, Francis Wolsten-
holme, Charles Holte, William Bamford, Thomas Redferne, Richard Chadwick, Richard Milne, Robert Walkden, Edmund Whitehead,
John Halliwell, Jonſathan] Chadwick de Ellen[rod], Oliver Chadwick, Charles Holt, Edm. Kershaw, Wm. Butterworth, Jas. Marland,
Jas. Fielden, Jon. Healey, John Chadwick, and Jas. Scholfield, jurors, it appears that the boundary of the parish of Rochdale begins at
the Cold Greave in the township of Butterworth ; and from thence eastward to a hill called Dobbin, and from Dobbin eastward to Little
Clough, called Little Mere Clough Head; and thence to the Redmires; and from thence northward to the Middle Greave in Linygreave,
and from thence to Black Gate Foot, northward unto Bow, or Rowkin Stone, and from thence to the Slacks on the Moss, standing upon
Walsden Edge ; and from thence northward to Cowlaghton; from Cowlaghton, northward to Dovelaw; from Dovelaw to Stoney Edge ;
and from Stoney Edge northward to Salter Rake ; and from thence following between Greater and Lesser Swineshead, to a brook called
Todmorden water, and so descending the said water, to a close called Steaners, and so following the south-east part of the Steaners to a
close called Mythony in Todmorden; and from thence to a river called Calder ; and so descending the river Calder to a place called
Roodilee, to Hollingrake Holme, and following the south part of Hollingrakeholme, to Calder aforesaid ; and ascending the river Calder to
Beaten Clough Foot; and from thence to Beaten Clough Head ; and from thence to Sherneyford; and from thence to a Hedge or Fence,
sometimes on one side of the water, sometimes on the other, to Greave Clough ; and from thence to Baycop ; and from Baycop to Rock-
cliffe Lumme; and from thence following the river to Brandwood; from thence to Carrgate ; and from Carrgate to Cowap [Cowpel
Brook, ascending the same brook to its head; and from thence to the height of the Moss; from thence to Archinbutt, from Archinbutt
to Jump Holes; from thence to the west grain of Cheesden ; and from thence, following Cheesden Brook, to Cheesden Lumn; from thence
to White Ditch in Coldshaw, and so following the water of Naden to the Wolf Stone, in Naden Water ; from the Wolf Stone following
Naden Water to a ditch in Bagslate shore; from thence to Jowkin Well; from thence following the old ditch to Calf Hey, in Bagslate ;
from thence descending the parish to the east side of Naigh Maigh ; from thence to the Pinfold in Bagslate aforesaid; and thence
following Dowlass Brook to the river Roch; and so descending the river Roch to Heywood, and so ascending Heywood to Heeden Brook;
and from Heeden Brook to the Hamlet of Hopwood ; thence following the Irke brooke, to the Hamlet of Thornham, to Heathershaw
Deane ; and from thence following the top of Brunedge, to Knot Booth Yate ; and from thence following the township of Crompton,
crossing the water of Beyle, to Helpet Edge ; and from Helpet Edge, following Ogden Edge, to the Cold Greave, being the first boundary
or meare.”
An extension of a mile and a half in breadth and three miles in length has been made to the parish of
Rochdale since this early survey was made ; and instead of the water of the Naden serving as the western
limit, the boundary of Spotland Farther Side now extends over the summit of Cheesden, and abuts upon the
township of Walmersley in the parish of Bury.
The Rochdale Poor-law Union includes 6 townships, represented by 23 elected guardians, and 32 ca,
officio guardians. The board meets every other Friday at the Board-room, Wardleworth Workhouse. Its
committees are:–
1. Workhouse, 2. Finance, 3. Union Assessment, 4. Castleton Relief, 5. Spotland Relief, and 6. Wardleworth Relief. The
receipts of the guardians for the half-year ended March 1867 (including £13,818, the contributions of the several townships) were
£15,277. The expenditure in relief (poor in workhouses, £1873; out-relief and non-resident poor, É3413 ; lunatics, £1011),'
£6433; county rates, £4050; officers' salaries and, rations, £921 ; net rents, repairs, taxes, £1889; workhouse loan and interest
repaid, £650; total, £13,236—leaving a balance in favour of the township of £1041. In every twenty shillings expended by the
guardians on account of the several townships, the proportions are:–Relief of all kinds, management of lunatic paupers, medical
fees, etc., 9s. 0}d. ; registration-fees, 2%d. ; vaccination do., 1}d. ; county rates, 5s. 8%d. ; salaries of officers, 1s. 3%d. ; common
charges, 2s. 7#d. ; workhouse loan and interest, 11d. ; and apprehension-fees, #d. The following figures show the numbers of poor
relieved, and the relief expenditure, every half-year from 1860 inclusive ; thus showing the operation of the cotton famine in the
Rochdale union —
' The union maintains 45 male and 40 female lunatics in the Prestwich county asylum, and 6 males and 9 females in that at Lancaster.
3 R. -
490 Qſìje ??igturn of £ancašijire.

Year March. September. Total. March. September. Total.
º Half-Year. Half-Year. Year. Half-Year. Half-Year. Year.
1860 4,123 4,004 8,127 £4,157 £4,076 £8,233
1861 4,677 5,391 10,068 4,115 3,977 8,092
1862 9,252. 14,826 24,078 5,665 10,438 16,103
1863 21,788 18,532 40,320 23,874 15,472 39,346
1864 13,528 10,643 24,171 14,067 8,226 22,293
1865 11,034 9,511 20,545 9,341 6,379 15,720
1866 5,087 6,357 11,444 4,968 4,955 9,923
1867 8,046 tº gº & ſº tº g 5,286 tº tº tº tº º gº
Connected with the Wardleworth Workhouse is a night asylum ; and an official return shows that during the year ended Sep-
tember 1866 no fewer than 5674 tramps were lodged in the asylum.
The county-rate valuation, on which union charges were formerly reckoned, was, for the aggregate of the
six townships in the union, £226,540. The assessment-committee's valuations, on which the union charges are
now reckoned, have an aggregate of £314,632—an increase of £88,092. The present rateable value of
property is:–In Blatchinworth and Calderbrook, £18,258; Butterworth, £29,845; Castleton, £88,220 ;
Spotland, £102,530; Wardleworth, £51,827; and Wuerdale and Wardle, £23,952.
Within the limits of the Rochdale Union there are twenty collieries, in which the coal known as the
Gannister or Mountain Mine (about two feet thick), the Sand Rock Mine, and the “Forty-yards Mine,”
respectively about fifteen inches thick, are worked; and one in which the coal is known as the Arley or
Royley Mine, and it is about four feet thick.
THE PARLIAMENTARY AND MUNICIPAL BOROUGH OF ROCHDALE.
The town, the parliamentary and the municipal borough of Rochdale are almost, though not exactly,
conterminous. The town boundaries are defined by the Police Act ; those of the parliamentary borough by the
Borough Boundaries Act, and being limited to a radius of three-quarters of a mile from the old market-place,
it has necessarily a circular boundary line, enclosing an area of a mile and a half diameter. The only differ-
ence is, that while the parliamentary borough is measured from the outer edge of the market-place to the
boundary of the borough in that direction, the municipal borough is measured from a point in the centre of
the market-place, so that the circumscribing line of the parliamentary includes a somewhat larger area than
that of the municipal borough, and consequently a slightly larger population—that of the municipal borough
being, in 1861, 38,114; and that of the parliamentary borough, 38,184—adding merely 6 houses containing
30 persons in the township of Spotland, and 8 houses containing 40 persons in the township of Wuerdale and
Wardle to the municipal, in order to form the parliamentary borough.
By the Reform Act of 1832 this town was erected into a borough, and invested with the privilege of
returning one member to the Commons' House of Parliament ; and by the act for settling and describing the
division of counties, and the limits of cities and boroughs, this borough is made to extend to the whole space
within three-quarters of a mile, computed in a straight line, in every direction from the old market-place in
Rochdale, as defined in the 101st section of the Police Act “for lighting, cleansing, watching, and regulating
the town of Rochdale.” A very small part of Wuerdale and Wardle is within the line of the present
boundary of the town. The remaining three townships, which make up the complement, afford the following
proportions to the circle –Castleton, three-ninths; Wardleworth, four-ninths; Spotland, two-ninths. The
township of Castleton extends three miles beyond the limits of the Police Act ; the township or hamlet of
Wardleworth is, with a slight exception, altogether within the limits of the Police Act; and Spotland extends nine
miles beyond the boundary of the Police Act. The following are the elections since the Reform Act of 1832 —
ROCHDALE–(ONE MEMBER).
ELECTORs IN 1832, 687—IN 1865, 1411.
Elections. JElectors.
1832. T)ec. John Fenton º & tº (L.) 277 1841. July. W. S. Crawford (L.) 399
John Entwisle tº g * (c.) 246 James Fenton (L.) 338
James Taylor . g & (L.) 109 1847. Aug. W. S. Crawford (L.)
1835. Jan. John Entwisle (c.) 369 1852. July. Edward Miall . tº º & (L.) 529
John Fenton (L.) 326 Captain Alexander Ramsay . (c.) 375
On death of Mr. Entwisle : 1857. March. iºi Ramsay, Bart. § ; -
1837. April. John Fenton . tº º (L.) 383 ſº tº tº gº * —
Clement Royds (c.) 339 1859. April. Richard Cobden . ſº g (L.)
1837. Aug. John Fenton . tº tº * (L.) 374 1865. April. T. B. Potter º 646
Captain Alexander Ramsay (c.) 349 W. B. Brett (C.) 496
— 1865. July. Thomas Bayley Potter (L.)
#umbrel ºf $alfort–Häntiſtair 33arisiſ. 491
The bill introduced into parliament in 1833 by Lord-Chancellor Brougham, for the municipal incorpora-
tion of English boroughs, comprehends the borough of Rochdale, and enacts that the limits of the chartered
jurisdiction shall be the same as those described in the act of 2 and 3 William TV. cap. 64, mentioned above.
The following particulars as to the parliamentary borough of Rochdale are taken from the Summary of
Parliamentary Electoral Returns, 1865-66:—Population of the borough in 1831, 19,041; in 1861, 38,184 ;
(computed) in 1866, 43,688. Increase in 1861, 19,143; in 1866, 24,627. Inhabited houses in 1861,
77.05. The number of electors on the parliamentary register, É10 Occupiers, were—in 1832-33, 687 ; in
1865-66, 1442; but deducting double entries on the register (84), the actual number of electors was 1358.
The number of working-men on the present parliamentary register is 68; with reference to which number
it is stated that the borough is so circumscribed, that many of the better class of artisans reside outside the
boundary. Many of the houses in the borough are built with small rooms, and can be let at low rentals,
affording separate apartments for the occupiers, whilst a similar house with larger rooms would command
such a rental as would confer the franchise. Of 5356 burgesses, none compounded for their rates, and there are
1345 burgesses on the parliamentary register. The districts comprising the parliamentary and municipal
limits are circles, having the same diameter (1 mile), but the centres of such circles are about 15 yards
from each other. For all parochial purposes the boundaries are conterminous. The gross estimated rental
of property in the borough in 1856 was £110,096 ; in 1865-66, £141,244; increase, £31,148. The rateable
value in 1856 was £97,747; in 1862 (before the Union Assessment Committee Act), £99,139; in 1865-66,
f114,490. The gross annual value of all messuages, or tenements and lands, including tithe rent-charge,
according to the income-tax assessment, schedule A, is £132,328; the gross estimated rental of such
property, according to the valuation-list, is £133,230. The number of male occupiers, at gross estimated
rentals under £10, is 5542; at and over £10, 1858; at rateable value of £4 and under £10, 3919; £10
and over, £1438. The gross estimated rental on all rateable property above £10 a-year is stated to repre-
sent the full rack-rent ; but in the case of property under £10 per annum, for which the landlord pays the
rates, 20 per cent is allowed. A deduction of 20 per cent is made from the gross estimated rental, in
estimating the rateable value of houses at and under £10.
By the chief constable's general return on all buildings in the borough on 29th September 1866, there
would appear to have been at the time 47 cotton-mills and manufactories, 19 woollen-mills and manufactories,
9 dye-works, 2 hat-manufactories, 26 machine-manufactories, 21 foundries, 4 saw-mills, 3 corn-mills, 146 mis-
cellaneous workshops; 186 warehouses, 4 churches, 20 chapels, 55 schools, 3 banks, 1 market, 1 theatre (wood),
1 music-hall, 1 railway-station, 1 gas-station, 2 workhouses, 1 dispensary, 1 night asylum, 5 public institutions, 4
public buildings, 4 breweries, 35 slaughter-houses, 68 buildings used as offices; 318 miscellaneous buildings, such
as sheds, stables, etc., not workshops; 8082 inhabited dwelling-houses, 274 inhabited shops used as dwellings,
13 ditto uninhabited, 134 shops not used as dwelling-houses, 455 inhabited and 24 uninhabited cellars.
Taking the total number of dwelling-houses and shop-dwellings as 8356, and multiplying it by 5 as the
average number of a family, the estimated population in these would be 41,780. Multiplying the 455 in-
habited cellars by 3 for the number of inmates, gives 1365 as the cellar population, and adding 120 inmates
of the Spotland Workhouse, and 20 in that of Wardleworth, the result is a total estimated population in the
municipal borough of Rochdale in September 1866 of 43,285. These returns indicate a steady increase of
buildings and population.
The following figures exhibit the increase of the town as shown by the number of assessments and the
valuation of the property by the town-valuer in the three wards at three periods twenty years apart —
Gross Annual Rent or Value.
Year. Ward. Number of Number in
AssessmentS. TOWn. - War dS. TOWn.
1827 | Wardleworth º º of º 1687 or e ºf £28,420
Castleton . - - - - 1262 | - - - 16,513 |
Spotland . * - - - 736 3685 10,849 £55,782
1847 | Wardleworth - - - o 2950 • * * £34,863
Castleton . * 4. - . 2467 | - - - 26,747
Spotland . . . . . 1460 6877 15,338 #76,948
1867 Wardleworth e - - ar 4247 - - - £58,985
Castleton . - - - - 3810 - - - 58, 186
Spotland . - - - º 2086 10,143 30,992 £148,057
Previously to 1825 the only local authority in Rochdale was vested in the justices of the peace and the
parish constables, both of which powers are still recognised in the borough and in the union—there being an
annual appointment of parish constables. In 1825 a local act of parliament was obtained, creating police
492 The history of Lancashire.
commissioners, with a qualification of £35 yearly value as owners or occupiers, with powers to light, watch,
and cleanse the town, within a radius of three-quarters of a mile from the old market-place. The president
or chairman of the commissioners was named in the act the “Chief Constable.” Under this act the com-
missioners appointed three day-constables, a staff of night-watchmen, lamplighters, and Scavengers, and they
contracted with the gas company to light a considerable portion of the town. On the adoption of the County
Constabulary Act, in 1841 or 1842, by the Lancashire justices of the peace, the commissioners ceased to
appoint constables and watchmen, the introduction of the county constabulary force rendering it unnecessary.
In 1841 a serious difference arose between the commissioners and the gas company as to the price charged
for gas for the public lamps, the quality of gas supplied, and the refusal of the gas company to light the
public lamps in the outskirts of the town except at a greatly increased charge. The dispute ran high ; the
commissioners refused to pay the price charged—viz. at the rate of £2: 2s. per lamp for 1512 hours' consump-
tion, and some minor charges—and they lighted the lamps with oil instead of gas in the winter of 1842-3, to
the great discomfort of the inhabitants. This dispute led the commissioners to apply to parliament in 1844
for an act to enable them to manufacture gas for lighting the public lamps, and also for supplying private con-
sumers. At the same time the gas company applied for an act to enlarge their works. These steps resulted
in the purchase of the gas-works by the commissioners. The act received the royal assent on the 14th August
1844. By this act the power of self-qualification of the commissioners was taken away, and the power of
electing commissioners was vested in the parliamentary electors or £10 householders. The “Improvement
Commissioners,” as this act styled them, must be owners or occupiers of tenements of a £20 rental, and the
number of commissioners not to exceed 60—viz. 27 to represent Wardleworth, 21 Castleton, and 12 Spotland.
This act, besides vesting in the commissioners the power to make and sell gas, gave them a limited power to
pave and sewer. The toll-gates within the three-quarter mile radius were to be removed by the trustees
of highways, several streets were to be widened; and to accomplish these objects the commissioners were
authorised to borrow £40,000 on security of the rates. In 1853 another act was procured, entitled the
“Rochdale Improvement Act,” which, besides enlarging and perfecting the paving and sewering clauses, provided
for the formation of a public cemetery, the erection of public baths, the purchase of lands for recreation-
grounds, and for a public library and museum. The number of commissioners was reduced to 42 (viz.
Wardleworth ward 18, Castleton ward 15, and Spotland ward 9). The municipal franchise was extended to
all ratepayers who had resided in the borough for twelve months; each having one vote for every £50 of
rateable value, up to sia, votes. At length the town had granted to it a charter of incorporation on the 9th
September 1856. The town-council, under this charter, to consist of 40 burgesses, who were to elect a
mayor, 10 aldermen (4 each for Wardleworth and Castleton wards, and 2 for Spotland ward); the propor-
tions of councillors being 12 each for Wardleworth and Castleton, and 6 for Spotland. The powers of the
Improvement Act, and the property of the commissioners, were transferred to the corporation on the 13th
January 1858, from which date the town-council is the only local authority exercising jurisdiction in relation
to municipal matters. Rochdale has not yet had a grant of borough-sessions, though it appoints its own police
force, and the mayor takes precedence as a magistrate in all borough business brought before the petit
sessions. The following gentlemen have filled the office of mayor since the incorporation of the borough:*-
Jacob Bright º e & º 1856-7 George Leach Ashworth & g 1862-3
Robert Taylor Heape . * * I857-8 Samuel Stott e tº & e 1863-4
Andrew Stewart . & •; -e 1858-9 John Tatham e - * g 1864-5
Thomas Ashworth & * * 1859-60 Samuel Stott & † g gº 1865-6
Joseph Hamilton Moore & & 1860–1 - John Robinson . tº g e 1866-7
John Thompson Pagan g g 1861-2 Charles Whitaker . * & e 1867-8
The following are the permanent committees of the council, meeting weekly, fortnightly, or monthly, ac-
cording to the pressure of their duties:—Watch ; paving and sewering ; scavenging, hackney-coach, fire-
engine, and lighting ; general purposes; cemetery; gas; finance ; and waterworks.
The following are some of the chief items in the receipts and expenditure of the Rochdale corporation,
acting in execution of the Rochdale Improvement Act of 1853, in the year ended 31st March 1867 —
Paving and Sewering.—Receipts: Rate made June 1866, £4072; private improvement rates, £2994; total, £7851. Expenditure
(including balance owing to the bank March 1866, £2082). Wages, £2082; paving streets, flags, stones, and bricks, £1927; total,
£8995; balance owing to the bank March 1867, £1144. General Purposes.—Receipts: Rate made June 1866, £3977; total, #4541.
Expenditure : Lamplighters' wages, £327; scavengers' do., £560; removing night-soil, £800; gas for street-lamps, £1201; expenses
of fire-engine department, £166; salaries, £259; leaving a balance in the bank in March 1867 of £415. Improvement.—Receipts
(including balance in bank March 1866, £2750): Profits on gas for year ending March 1866, £3069; transfer from town-hall account,
paid from this account, and now repaid, £10,903; transfer from public works account, #1622; total, £18,427. Expenditure :
Interest on loans paid to the Public Works’ Commissioners, £543; payment of one-thirtieth part of loans to these commissioners,
£520; expenses of widening Rochdale bridge, £1409; town-hall, basement, É180, superstructure, £4434; total, £8640; leaving a
balance in the bank of £9787. Town-Hall.—This account is from the commencement to March 1867, when the balance due to the
bank was £10,803. The expenditure includes, for basement, É5280; for superstructure, £4434; architect's compensation, £650; clerk
of works, £348; prizes for designs, £200. There was also expended on the purchase of the site, excavations, river-wall, compensations,
* The corporation arms are:—Argent, a woolpack, encircled by two branches of the cotton tree, flowered and conjoined proper; a bordure
Sable, charged with eight martlets of the field. Crest—on a wreath of the colours, a millrind sable, and above a fleece argent, banded or.
#umbren of Šalford—ºutfitale parisiſ. 493
etc., £8270, money borrowed from the Public Works Loan Commissioners. Loan and Interest.—Receipts include new loans, £15,400;
cemetery, £387; gas, £2358; total, £18,385. Expenditure (including balance owing to bank March 1866, £2288): Interest on loans,
£2762; payment of loans to be re-borrowed, £1490; leaving a balance in the bank March 1867 of £11,793. The expenditure on
Public Baffs account was £211. Sinking Fund.—Receipts (including balance in bank March 1866, £1672): Transfer from gas account
one-fortieth part of money borrowed, £1708; total, £3835. Expenditure: Part payment of loan, Hand-in-Hand Society, £1000;
leaving a balance in the bank in March 1867 of £2834. Cemetery.—Receipts: Purchase of graves, £509; burial-fees, £396 ; total,
£1071. Expenses (including balance owing to bank March 1866, £702): Sextons' and gravediggers' wages, £231; registrar's Salary,
£100 ; interest on loans, £387; one-fortieth part of money borrowed, £295; total, £2000. Tublic Works.-Receipts (including
balance in bank March 1866, £8888), £9200. Expenditure: Sewerage, £1157; John Street and Molesworth Street, £647; town-
hall, £1622; leaving a balance in bank of £5770. The amount of money borrowed under the Improvement Act of 1853 was
#100,606, of which there has been paid off, to be re-borrowed, £4840, and paid off in fortieth parts, to reduce the debt, £19,846,
leaving now owing £75,950. The amount borrowed from the Public Works Loan Commissioners was £20,600, of which has been paid
off, in yearly instalments (spread over thirty years), £936, leaving still owing, £19,663. Gas.”—Receipts: For gas, £20,231 ;
public lamps, £1201; coke, £1182; tar and ammonia water, £753; meters, £644; total, £24,402. Expenditure: For cannel,
£9399; coal, £1079; iron pipes, etc., £2730; wages, £3553; interest, #2358; finance committee, one-fortieth part of debt, £1708;
ditto profits to March 1866, £3069; total, £27,264; balance due to bank, £2752. The total amount of money borrowed is £77,413,
from which is to be deducted the amount of depreciation fund, £9063, and the amount of mortgage debt paid off since March 1853,
£18,077, leaving the amount of mortgage debt owing March 1867, £50,272. The gas capital account gives the amount borrowed as
#77,413, the cost of purchase of gas-works, £27,700, and the cost of extensions, 1845 to 1867, £48,495 (a yearly average for twenty-
three years of £2.108); total, £76, 196; leaving a balance in hand of £1217. The general summary of Liabilities and Assets gives
the liabilities of paving and sewering department, #2243; general purposes, £2532; loan and interest, #15,400; cemetery, £9325;
public baths, £211; town-hall, £10,803; gas, £55,418 ; sinking-fund, £2966; balance, £8776; total, £187,676. Assets : Paving
and sewering, £4373; general purposes, £2804; improvement, #9787; loan and interest, #15,572; cemetery, £12,945; gas,
#59,358 ; and sinking-fund, É2834; total, #107,676.
CORPORATION FINANCES.—The corporation, under the powers of the Improvement Act of 1853, may
borrow £120,000, which must be repaid at the rate of 1-40th part yearly. On the 31st March 1867
£95,766 had been borrowed and appropriated as capital—viz, $68,350 to the gas-works, £11,819 to the
cemetery, and £4300 to the general purposes and paving departments; leaving £14,296 in hand, with
power to borrow £24,234 within the limits of the Act. The present debt on this account is £75,920 ;
showing that £19,846 has been repaid. Besides the above loans, the corporation (under the powers of the
“Public Works Loan Companies' Act 1862,” for the relief of the cotton districts), have borrowed for public
works £20,600, of which £936 has been repaid. This loan was expended in constructing a new road to the
cemetery, in preparing the site for the town-hall, the improvement of John Street, and the purchase of
Sparrow Hill for recreation-grounds. There is still a sum of £5770 in hand. The value of the property,
and the cash held by the corporation, as against the total debt of £95,583, is £97,475 ; but in this amount
no value is estimated for the property in the town-hall, or at Sparrow Hill; though upwards of £15,000
has been, to October 1867, expended thereon. ..ºf
The magistrates sit in petit sessions on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, in the council-room, Smith
Street. In the town-hall, now building, there will be a court-room specially provided. There are thirty-one
county magistrates residing within the Rochdale union, of whom twenty attend in rotation or occasionally at
the Rochdale bench. The mayor takes part in all business relating to the borough ; but there is no separate
borough bench. The total number of cases brought before the Rochdale bench for adjudication in 1867 was
about 2550, including the business of overseers, surveyors, etc. Of these cases, 2326 were brought by the
borough and county police ; in which 64 prisoners were committed for trial, 1601 were summarily fined or
sent to imprisonment, and 661 cases were dismissed. - -
The police force of the municipal borough of Rochdale numbers altogether 38—viz, one chief constable
(Captain Davies), 2 inspectors, 5 sergeants, 11 first, 3 second, 12 third, and 4 fourth class constables. In the
year ended September 1866, the cost of their salaries and pay was £2115; of their clothing and accoutrements
#277 ; the station-house charges, printing, etc., £377; total, £2809. Of this the Treasury pays £702,
leaving a balance of £2106 chargeable to the rates of the borough. In the fire-engine establishment there
are 3 fire-engines, 4 reels, and 103 hydrants in the streets. The fire-brigade consists of 14 men. Water
can be thrown from the mains 60 feet high, through a 3-inch nozzle, in the lowest part of the town, this
supply and pressure being from the reservoir at Buckley Wood. It can be thrown the same height at One
Ash, the highest part of the town ; the supply and pressure being from Hamer Pasture. During the year
ending September 1866, 8 fires in the borough destroyed property to the value of £1875, of which £1570
was covered by insurance. Three of these fires were extinguished by fire-engines, and five by police and others.
There are 19 scavengers and carters employed in cleansing the town ; and 7 lamplighters are employed.
The Rochdale County Court, which has its office in South Parade, has the same jurisdiction as all
other county courts. The Court is held monthly, generally on the second Wednesday in the month, at the
public hall, Baillie Street, before C. Temple, esq., Q.C., Judge. The Registrar is R. Jackson, esq. In the
year 1866, in this court, 2026 causes were determined without a jury; and in judgments obtained by
plaintiffs, the aggregate amount of debts was £4164. There were during that year 4 adjudications in
bankruptcy. -
WATER SUPPLY.—The first reservoir for the supply of water to the inhabitants of Rochdale was
* Rochdale was first lighted with gas (amidst great rejoicings, including a balloon-ascent) on the 24th May 1824.
494 (ºr £igturn ºf £antagjirt,
constructed about 1760, by Mr. John Clegg, and enlarged by Mr. Ralph Taylor. It was placed at the foot
of the hill near the church-steps, being only 25 feet above the centre of the town. From its limited capacity
and low level, it could supply but a very small portion of the town ; but its success led to the establishment
of the Rochdale Waterworks Company, who purchased it, and in 1809 obtained an act to supply the town
with water; and subsequent acts in 1816, 1839, and 1847, by which their capital and their powers were
enlarged. Under these acts the company constructed the reservoirs named the Jep Heys, Buckley Wood,
Hamer Pasture, and Brown House Wham reservoirs, and much extended their mains. In 1866, they applied
for another act to give them power to make two more large reservoirs. The town-council, however,
seeing the importance of having the water-supply under its own control, negotiated with the company, and
agreed to purchase the works, giving to the shareholders an annuity of £5 : 12s. On £56 paid stock; there
being in all 1332 shares. Parliament assented; and the act empowered the corporation to borrow
f200,000 for the purposes of the act, with the proviso that after ten years, any debt thus incurred should
be reduced at the rate of one per cent per annum.
This act gives power for the compulsory purchase of land (within three years from 28th June 1866), for the making of three
new reservoirs—one at Spring Mill, another at Cowm, and another small service reservoir at Knot Hill, Shawforth, all in the
township of Spotland. By Section 29, the waterworks authorised by this act are to be completed within ten years from 28th
June 1866, otherwise, “On the expiration of that period the powers of the company [now the corporation of Rochdale], under this
act for making the waterworks, should cease to be exercised, except as to so much as is then completed. Section 34 provides for
the making of the Knot Hill reservoir within five years from the passing of the act. By section 46, the works, etc., of the
company became vested in the corporation of Rochdale on and from 1st October 1866. Section 52 provides for the payment of
perpetual annuities to the company's shareholders, and makes such annuities a charge upon the property transferred to the
corporation, as the primary fund, and on the borough fund and borough rates as a collateral security,+to be the first charge on the
borough fund and rates, after the preferential moneys and interest subsisting as charges thereon, at the time of transfer. By
section 53, each shareholder of £42 per share shall be entitled to an annuity of £4:4s. upon every share ; and each shareholder
of £14, to an annuity of £1:8s, upon every share. Section 59 gives power to the corporation to borrow money, not exceeding in the
whole £200,000, upon the security of the property of the corporation. Section 61 provides a sinking-fund for redeeming annuities
and paying off mortgages; and Section 63 provides for any deficiency on waterworks account to be made good by borough rates.
The gathering-ground, under this new arrangement, will be increased from 700 to 2200 acres; the
capacity of the reservoirs from 25 million cubic feet or 150 million gallons, to 120 million cubic feet or 737
million gallons. The daily supply in 1867 is about 800,000 gallons, and the corporation is providing for an
increase to 1,500,000 gallons, or 20 gallons per head daily. The capital of the works is (1867) #74,600,
and the corporation have decided to make one of the reservoirs at Cowm, and have taken land for the
other at Spring Mill. The number of customers on the books in 1866 was 12,468; and of this number
11,969 were private dwelling-houses and shops, 270 public-houses, 130 stables, 85 workshops and warehouses,
6 dyers and Scourers, and 8 steam-engines. The charge for water for domestic purposes is according to a
published scale, being at the rate of about 6 per cent on the rent of houses under £20 rental, 54 on houses
between £20 and £40, and 4% on houses between £40 and £100 rent. For manufacturing purposes, the
charge is Is. per 1000 cubic feet. The height of the Buckley Wood reservoir is 600 feet above the Ordnance
datum-line, being 200 feet higher than the centre of the town ; and water can be thrown from a hydrant
with a 3-inch nozzle to a height of 60 feet. Hamer Pasture reservoir is 200 feet above One Ash (Mr.
Bright's residence, and the highest part of the town), so that the water is available, in case of fire, in every
part of the town. The district which can be supplied with water from the corporation waterworks includes
Shawforth, Littleborough, Milnrow, Buersill, Blue Pits, Marland, Broadhalgh, Cutgate, and Spotland Fold.
The gas-works at Rochdale were formed by a company in 1823, the share capital being £12,000. In
1844, the works, etc., were purchased by the Rochdale Improvement Commissioners for £24,000, to which
£3700 was added for expenses, making the total capital £27,700, which was also the amount of the mortgage-
debt. In 1856 the works were transferred by the commissioners to the corporation. In 1866, the capital
had increased to £74,000, expended in extension of the works, the mortgage-debt being then £51,981. In
1845 the quantity of gas manufactured and sold was 21,176,000 cubic feet ; in 1866, 95,153,000 feet. In
1845 the average selling-price was 5s. 4d. ; in 1866 it was 3s. 9d. per 1000 cubic feet. In 1845 the
number of public lamps was 364, consuming 2,452,000 feet of gas; in 1866 there were 721 lamps, consuming
6,587,000 cubic feet of gas. In 1845 the price for coal was 9s. 4d., and for cannel 17s, per ton; in 1866
the prices were respectively 7s. 6d. and 15s. 10d. The lowest price paid for coal was 6s. 10d. in 1862 and
1863; the highest 9s. 8d. in 1861-62. The lowest price for cannel was 10s. 10d. in 1849-50, and the
highest, 17s. 4d. in 1861-62. The profits of the works in 1845 were £477; in 1866, £3049; and from
1844 to 1866 inclusive, £39,730; the amount being carried to the general-purposes account of the corporation,
to be expended in improvements in the town. In 1844 the gas-works had 36 retorts; in 1867 there are
210 retorts. In 1844 the storage was 80,000 feet; in 1867, 600,000 feet. The number of consumers in
1844 was 904; in 1867 it is 11,800.
In 1866 an act was passed (29th and 30th Vict, cap. 86), entitled, “The Rochdale Vicarage Act,
1866,” which gave power to vest the glebe-lands of the vicarage of Rochdale in the Ecclesiastical Commis-
sioners for England, and contained certain provisions of much importance to the parish and to the borough of
#umbret ºf $alfort—330th bale 43arisiſ. 495
Rochdale. After the death of the present vicar, who is to receive £4000 per annum for life, future vicars are to
receive £1500 per annum. The Ecclesiastical Commissioners, on the glebe becoming vested in them, are
also to pay to the incumbent of St. Clement's, Spotland, £500 per annum; and, as the funds arising from
the glebe-lands shall afford, are to pay £400 per annum to other two incumbents in the parish—one to be
selected by the vicar and the Ecclesiastical Commissioners jointly, and the other by the bishop of Man-
chester, and to be the incumbents of St. James's, Wardleworth ; St. Mary's, Rochdale ; the Holy Trinity,
Littleborough ; St. Alban's, Rochdale ; or St. James's, Milnrow. The incumbents of St. Chad, Saddleworth ;
Christ Church, Todmorden; the Holy Trinity, Littleborough ; St. James, Milnrow ; Christ Church, Healey;
St. Peter, Walsden; St. James, Wardleworth ; St. John, Smallbridge ; St. Thomas, Friarmere ; the Holy
Trinity, Dobcross; St. Anne, Lydgate; St. Alban, Rochdale ; St. James, Wardle ; St. Paul, Warden; St.
Martin, Castleton Moor ; and St. Mary, Rochdale ; and of five new districts or parishes to be constituted
out of the parish of Rochdale—are all to receive not less than £300 per annum eventually. The above
payments are to be by way of augmentation of the present endowments of the incumbents, exclusive of
surplus fees and pew-rents. Half the pews in the churches are to be free. There is also to be an allowance
of £100 per annum to the incumbent of St. Clement's, Spotland, that he may provide a curate to perform
service in the consecrated part of the Rochdale Cemetery; £100 to the incumbent of Holy Trinity, Little-
borough, to provide a curate to perform service at Calderbrook; and £150 to the incumbent of Christ
Church, Todmorden, to provide a curate to perform service in St. Mary's, Todmorden. The act also enables
(and provides for) the corporation of Rochdale to take certain of the glebe-lands, known as Broadfield, Cant
Hill, and part of Kill Danes, for recreation-grounds, on the payment of £380 per annum.
The vesting of the vicarage estate in the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for England, under the Vicarage
Act, was completed by the publication in the London Gazette of 2d November 1866 of an agreement to the
following effect:—
Agreement made 9th August 1866, between the Ecclesiastical Commissioners for England, of the one part, and the Reverend
John Edward Nassau Molesworth of Rochdale, Co. Lancaster, clerk, D.D., vicar of the vicarage of Rochdale, of the other part.
The vicar having signified to the commissioners his willingness to accept a fixed annual sum of £4000, in lieu of his income from
the glebe lands and premises specified or referred to in the 1st section of the Rochdale Vicarage Act, 1866 (except as therein men-
tioned), these presents witness, that, in pursuance of the power conferred on them by the act, the commissioners agree to pay to
the said vicar during his incumbency such fixed annual sum of £4000, by equal half-yearly payments on 1st May and Ist November
in each year, with a proportionable part of a half-yearly payment up to the day of the avoidance of the vicarage by the death or
resignation of the said vicar, etc. And the said vicar agrees to accept the same, payable as aforesaid, to the intent that the said
glebe lands and premises (except as aforesaid) may, from 1st November next, or so soon thereafter as this agreement can be pub-
lished in the London Gazette, be absolutely vested in the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, etc.
Under this agreement the estate is now vested in the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, in the same manner
and with all the powers which a private owner can exercise over property. There is no restriction on their
dealing with the vicarial estate in any manner they may be advised. They can and (it is said) are willing
to treat with any lessee on the estate for converting his leasehold interest in the property into an absolute
freehold on fair and reasonable terms. Mr. John Molesworth of Rochdale has been appointed solicitor for
the commissioners, and is authorised to act for them independently. The commissioners have ample funds
at their disposal for making streets and sewers, and otherwise improving the property.
Though the town or municipal borough of Rochdale had a royal grant of a charter of incorporation so long
ago as September 1856, it remained for seven years without any effective effort to provide itself with a town-
hall adequate to the growing population, extent, and importance of the place. At length, on the 5th March
1863, the council resolved that a part of the glebe-lands of the vicarage of Rochdale, near the bank of the
river Roch, should be purchased as a site for a town-hall, with suitable approaches. By a deed of 14th
November 1863, Dr. Molesworth, the vicar, in consideration of £4370, conveyed the plot of land, containing
16,051 Square yards, to the mayor, aldermen, and burgesses, for this purpose. On the 7th January 1864, the
council resolved and Ordained that a town-hall should be erected on this land, wherein should be provided fit
and convenient public offices, for holding the meetings and transacting the business of the council, and for the
use of their officers, and for holding such public meetings and transacting such public business relating to the
town or borough, as the council should from time to time direct or allow to be held or transacted therein.
Amongst various plans of competing architects, those of Mr. William Henry Crossland of Leeds were chosen ;
and Messrs. Henry and Samuel, Warburton, of Harpurhey, Manchester, were appointed contractors for the
building. Its estimated cost, exclusive of furniture, is £40,000. The ceremony of laying the corner-stone
took place on Saturday, March 31, 1866, the stone being laid by John Bright, esq., M.P. (Birmingham), of
One Ash, Rochdale, a native of the town and borough ; Mr. T. B. Potter, M.P. (Rochdale), being present, and
many thousand inhabitants. The building is now (October 1867) about half completed ; and it is expected
to be finished externally about July 1868, to be ready by May 1868 for some municipal departments,
and to be quite completed by June 1869. The length of its north façade will be 220 feet, of its west
front, 110 feet, and of its east front, 90 feet. The tower at the east end will have six stages; from the
turreted and embattled Summit of which will spring a small octagonal open turret, terminating in a low
496 . (The #istory of £antagjirz.
spire; the total height being 150 feet. A small ventilating shaft, springing from the centre of the high-
pitched roof, will also terminate in a short spire. The edifice is of a rich domestic Gothic character, resembling
an ecclesiastical pile, or still more closely one of the mediaeval town-halls of the continent. The main building
is divided by buttresses into seven bays, each filled by a Gothic arched window of three lights, divided into
two stages by a transom. There is one main entrance in the tower, and another in the centre of the north side,
by a projecting arcaded porch. Judging from the architectural elevation, this fine edifice will be one of the
greatest architectural ornaments of the town. Internally, the building will comprise a council-chamber, a
mayor's reception-room, a town-clerk's and all other offices required for municipal purposes, at the easterly
end ; a court-room, a residence for the chief constable, rooms for the constabulary, prisoners' cells, at the
west end; and a very fine hall for an Exchange in the centre. It is so arranged that the corporation, the
magistrates, and the merchants, may respectively carry on their several avocations without interruption or
disturbance from the others. The building will also contain a fine hall, 90 by 56 feet, for public meetings,
lectures, etc., a library and a news-room. The town-hall is built of a fine millstone-grit, from a quarry near
Todmorden. t -
The CEMETERY.—Previously to 1855, all the burial-grounds of Rochdale—thirteen in number—
surrounded the various places of worship in the town, the chief of them being “the new burial-ground,” near
the parish church. In that year, however, all these places, except that belonging to the Society of Friends,
were closed by order of the Privy Council, on the representation of the Local Board of Health that they were
injurious to the health of the inhabitants. The present cemetery was then in course of construction by the
Rochdale Improvement Commissioners, under the powers of the “Rochdale Improvement Act, 1853.” It is
situated about a mile from the centre of the town, on the north-easterly side, and has an area of nearly
thirteen statute acres (61,617 square yards), containing 17,678 available graves—single graves being 7 by 3
feet, and double graves 8 by 4 feet each. The number of graves sold, and public graves opened, from April
1855 to March 1865 (ten years), was 2779; leaving 14,899 graves unsold in March 1865. The total value
of the graves, sold and unsold, is £44,647 ; and the receipts from sale of graves, and parts of graves, in the ten
years, was £6068 ; from burial-fees, £4865. The prices of graves vary from one to seven guineas. The
expenditure in the ten years was—for purchase and construction, £12,833; working, £5010; interest on loans,
£4328; and repayment of loans, £2971. The mortgage-debt in 1865 was £9133. In their second quin-
quennial report (April 1860 to March 1865), the committee state that the annual working charge of the
cemetery is nearly met by the burial and other fees; and that the present annual average loss by the cemetery
is £119. The stock account showed a balance in favour of the cemetery in 1865 of £28,101 ; the debits
against stock being—loans, £9133; rates, £1495; bank, £710; and the credits—buildings, £600; imple-
ments, £194; and graves, £38,580. The total interments in the ten years have been 8465, a yearly average
of 846. At the usual per-centage of deaths (23 in every 1000) a population of 39,000 uses the Rochdale
Cemetery as its place of sepulture. “The obligation imposed by the act of 1853, to reduce the debt yearly
by one-fortieth part, and the income arising from the cemetery being insufficient for that purpose, render it
necessary to meet the deficiency by a rate from time to time ; and however unsatisfactory this may be, there
is a compensation in the fact, that when the forty years have expired, and the debt is extinguished, a valu-
able property will be in possession of the town.” The committee state that the cemetery is in a satisfactory
state, financially and otherwise, and think it probable that not more than one rate of a penny will be required
at a future time to meet the temporary deficiency. The general good condition and appearance of the
cemetery is evident to all, and increasingly appreciated by the public. There are in the cemetery a residence
for the registrar and the Sexton, and three mortuary chapels, for Episcopalians, Nonconformists, and Roman
Catholics. The Episcopal chapel is in the Norman style, from a design by Mr. Moffatt Smith, approved by
the bishop of the diocese. The Nonconformists' chapel is, externally, a model from the Erectheum at Athens;
and the Roman Catholic chapel is from a design by Mr. M'Dougall, a local architect. The cost of purchase,
formation, and construction, was £13,700. The consecrated is divided from the unconsecrated portion by
twenty-seven stone pillars, each from a different stratum, and placed in their geological positions in the
descending Order, commencing with chalk and ending with basalt. The Series is not complete, but it is in
contemplation to perfect it, and to add fossiliferous remains, which will add greatly to the interest of the
collection.
The POST-OFFICE is at present a rented office in South Parade, but Government has made a grant of
£2000 for the erection of a building, on the condition that the corporation shall give the site, which will be
near the present office, and negotiations for which are now in progress (Nov. 1867). The number of letters and
newspapers received for delivery in the town and neighbourhood was, for one week in January 1841, 6655;
same in January 1851, 8783; a week in January 1861, 21,277; in 1866, 32,613; in a week of January
1867, 35,500 ; and in a week in November 1867, 40,884. It is assumed that there were as many despatched
as delivered. No return or account was kept before the introduction of the penny postage in 1840; but
it is estimated that the number did not previously exceed 3000 weekly. There are three deliveries of letters
every week-day, and One on Sunday. In the town and immediate neighbourhood there are 11 sub-offices—
#umbrely of $alfort—3&Grijtaſz Łarisiſ. 497
at Bamford, Blackpits, Healey, Shawforth, Spotland Bridge, Townhead, Wardle, Milnrow, Oldham Road,
Smallbridge, and Whitworth—the last four being also money-order offices. There are also 18 pillar and wall
boxes. Thirty-nine mails are despatched daily. In the money-order office, the weekly average receipts for six
months ending November 1867 were £730, the payments £455—the increase having been at the rate of
about 8 per cent per annum. The deposits in the post-office Savings bank, for the six months ending November
7, 1867, averaged £82 weekly.
BANKS,-Messrs. Clement Royds and Co., The Butts.-London Agents: London and Westminster
Bank. Messrs. J. and J. Fenton and Sons, Old Market Place.—London Agents: Barclay, Bevan, Tritton,
and Co. Branch of the Manchester and Liverpool District Banking Co., Baillie Street, D. Coventry, esq.,
manager.—London Agents: Messrs. Smyth, Payne, and Smyths. For this bank a new building will be
erected in Packer Street, opposite the town-hall. All the above banks are open from 10 to 4 on Mondays,
from 10 to 1 on Saturdays, and from 10 to 3 upon other week-days. ROCHDALE PENNY BANK is open
every Saturday afternoon, at the Council Rooms, from half-past 5 to half-past 7.
The Rochdale Savings Bank was established in 1818, and appeared to prosper until 1848, when, at
the death of the actuary, it was found that there was a deficiency of £71,715. The deposits in the bank
were £100,403; and the funds in the hands of the National Debt Commissioners and the local treasurer
were only £28,688. Investigation showed that the fraud had commenced about 1836-37, and had become
so completely systematised, that for eleven or twelve years it had not been detected. The property of the
actuary produced £16,000; the trustees, managers, and the public subscribed £17,430; leaving a loss to the
depositors of £38,287; or, in other words, the depositors received 12s. 6d. in the pound, and lost 7s. 6d.
Considerable efforts were made, till 1864, to induce government to make good the amount lost by defal-
cation; but these efforts were of no avail. Since 1848 there has been no savings bank other than that of
the Post Office, and the Penny Banks, in Rochdale.
The Rochdale Chamber of Commerce was established in 1866. Its affairs are managed by a president,
two vice-presidents, and a council, which meets monthly at the Lyceum, Baillie Street, on the last Thursday
of every month. The chamber has a newsroom for the members, managed by a committee.
The Grocers' and Provision Dealers' Association was established on the 5th May 1863, and became the
Rochdale Merchants' and Tradesmen's Association on the 9th February 1864. Its objects are to promote
measures calculated to benefit and protect the mercantile and trading interests of its members, and of the
town and neighbourhood of Rochdale generally ; to represent and express their sentiments on commercial
affairs; to collect statistics bearing upon the staple and general trade of the district; to undertake the
settlement of questions and disputes arising out of trade, by arbitration or otherwise, when submitted to it
for decision ; and, generally, the attainment of such commercial advantages as the exertions of individuals
may be less adequate to accomplish. The business of the association is conducted by a committee (elected at
the annual meeting of the association) which meets on the first Thursday in each month, at the hour of eight
in the evening. It has a president, vice-president, treasurer, and secretary. Amongst other things, it
collects debts for a compensation of 10 per cent on the amount recovered, and is in connection with more than
800 towns and places in the United Kingdom, to which its inquiries as to parties desirous of obtaining credit
can be extended.
PUBLIC BATHS.—This institution, which owes its existence to the praiseworthy efforts of Mr.
Alderman Moore and others, is in course of erection on the north side of Smith Street, near the corner of
John Street, from the designs and plans of Mr. E. N. Macdougall, architect, of Rochdale. The building is
in the Italian style of architecture, of brick with stone dressings, having a façade 113 feet long, of two
storeys, the principal entrances being of stone, with plain moulded heads. The department for the ladies,
being on the left of their entrance, and quite distinct from the remainder of the building, is entered from
Smith Street. They pay at the office-window, and then enter a waiting-room with necessary conveniences
attached, and pass either into the room for the warm slipper-baths, or into a large airy swimming-bath, 34
feet by 23 feet, with dressing-boxes along one side. The gentlemen enter on the right, and, after paying at
the office-window, turn to the left for the first-class swimming-bath, and enter a light and airy apartment,
with gallery along two sides, 65 feet 6 inches by 39 feet, and 38 feet high to the top of the skylights from
the surface of the water. The second-class bath will be of precisely the same size and character, but with
more dressing-boxes; and each bath will be fitted up with dressing-boxes on the sides of the basins, the
water in which will be kept tepid by means of steam. In the galleries will be fitted up the warm or slipper-
baths, which will have waiting and spare rooms attached. On the whole, for size, light, and airiness, these
baths will be of a very superior character. There will be a superintendent's house attached, conveniently for
the general inspection of the whole establishment, and at the back will be the necessary offices and conve-
niences of such an establishment.
Co-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES AND STORES.—Rochdale has the merit of being the birthplace and metropolis
of co-operative effort in England ; and the following are brief notices of its establishments:—
3 S
498 (The #istory of £antagüirº.
THE ROCHDALE EQUITABLE PIONEERS’ SOCIETY.—This society was established in 1844, and commenced
business in December of the same year at No. 31 Toad Lane, Rochdale, with about 28 members holding
shares of £1 each, and a capital of £28. At the close of the year 1850 the members numbered 600, and
the funds had amounted to £2299. In December 1866 the society had 6246 members on its books, and
assets or capital, £103,000. During the year (1866) 1675 new members joined, and 753 old ones withdrew,
hence the clear accessions over withdrawals amounted to 920 members. The shares are £1 each. The
total received from that source during the society's existence was £51,986. The withdrawing members in
1866 took out for their share the large sum of £30,729. The share capital amounted to £97,489; the loan
capital was small, £418, but the interest received on loans was £76. The amount paid by the society for
interest during this year was £3823. The rate of interest is not stated, but at 5 per cent this sum would
pay for a loan of £76,000 for twelve months. Cash paid for goods purchased was £220,238; goods sold,
£249,122; profit realised, £31,931. The profit was thus applied:—
Interest g e * e g ſº & e £3,823
Dividend on purchases . . . g & e & 25,829
Education , • e e tº e 4. º 681
Reserve fund * g q * ... • g * 252
Depreciation of fixed stock . • º g e * 1, 197
Charities * g º g g • º º 165
The whole of the working expenses for the year—that is to say, wages, rent, rates, and taxes, and all incidental
repairs, etc.—was £7795, which, upon the value of the goods sold, is equivalent to £3: 2: 6 per cent. The
cash in hand—that is, at the banker's, treasurer's, or with other officer—figured at the respectable amount of
#25,034. The assets of the society were valued at £99,989, and the total liabilities at £81. Credit is neither
given nor taken, and the society's accounts are subjected to a quarterly scrutiny by auditors chosen from
among the members. In addition to the central store in Toad Lane, the society carries on business in the
following branch establishments —Oldham Road, School Lane, Whitworth Road, Pinfold, Spotland Bridge,
Bamford, Wardleworth Brow, Bluepits, Buersill, and Shawclough. It provides its members and the public
With general groceries, butchers' meat, drapery, tailoring, boots, shoes, clogs, etc. The society applies 24 per
cent of its net profits to educational purposes, which places a fund of nearly £660 per annum at the disposal
of the Educational Committee, by which the library (containing at present upwards of 8000 volumes of
carefully-selected works) is replenished; and eleven newsrooms, at the central and branch stores, are supplied
With daily, semi-weekly, and weekly newspapers, as well as periodicals, magazines, reviews, etc., all of which
are free to the use of members and their families. The society is managed by a committee of eleven persons,
six of whom are elected at the January quarterly meeting and five at the July meeting. Every member has a
Vote in the election of officers; and retiring officers are eligible for re-election. Candidates for membership are
admitted at each monthly meeting of the society. After admission a member is required to pay Is. deposit,
and not less than threepence per week, until his subscription and the dividend on his purchases of goods
amount to five £1 shares.
The ninety-first quarterly report of the committee of management for the year ending September 17,
1867, states the number of members at 6532, and the assets £119,766. The cash received for goods sold
that quarter was £69,663, being an increase of about £7000 on the corresponding quarter of 1866 : this
increase being chiefly in sales of grocery. The profit to divide for the quarter was £99.90 ; and, after
allowing £1231 for interest, É437 for depreciation of fixed stock, and £207 for the educational fund, it
allowed a dividend of 2s. 6d. in the pound. The committee have contracted for the erection of a number of
dwelling-houses on the society's spare land adjoining the Pinfold, Spotland Bridge, and Shawclough branches;
and have also leased other land on which to build cottages, and hope shortly to have applied the whole of the
£10,000 voted by the quarterly meeting of July 1867 for the erection of suitable dwellings for the members
and others. The library contains 8000 volumes. The cash-account shows the receipts for sales at twelve
grocery stores, one drapery, one tailoring-shop, eleven butchers' shops, and one for the sale of hides, fat, etc.;
three shoemaking, three clogging-shops, and a place for pork-butchery wholesale. The capital account in
liabilities includes amount of members' claims £107,463, reserve fund £1082, and educational fund £475.
The assets show investments in the Rochdale District Co-operative Corn-Mill Society (limited), shares
£20,667, and loans £3708; in the Rochdale Co-operative Manufacturing Society (limited), loans £6887, and
shares £6696; in the Rochdale Co-operative Land and Building Company (limited), £2000; in the North
of England Wholesale Industrial and Provident Society (limited), £1335; amount in the Rochdale Branch
of the Manchester and Liverpool District Bank, £41,292; investments in the Rochdale Pioneers' coal
department, tº22; fixed stock account, £16,460; trade accounts owing to the society, £322; stock-in-trade,
£17,700; cash in hand, £2340; total assets £119,766; balance by profit £9990. On the coal department,
the fourth quarterly report (ending August 31, 1867), shows the purchases of coal £1146, the sales £1440,
and º gain on the quarter £112. The dividends were-on house-coal 2s. 7d., and on steam-coal 7d. in the
pound.
#umbrel of Šalfort--330th baſe Harish. 499
The North of England Co-operative Society counts far more members than the Pioneers—viz. 31,030 ;
but their transactions, though very considerable, are less than the Rochdale society by £70,000 or more in
the year.
The Rochdale Co-operative Corn-Mill Society shows, upon a sale of £202,000 worth of goods, £18,000
profit. The Co-operative Cotton Factory in the same town made sales to the extent of £108,000; the
realised profits were £4620. This concern appears to be confined to spinning and manufacturing cotton.
THE NEW CENTRAL STORE.-The New Central Store now in course of erection in Toad Lane and St.
Mary's Gate, at a cost of upwards of £10,000, will be a strong building with stone frontage, somewhat orna-
mental and angular, from end of St. Mary's Gate into Toad Lane. In the centre of the building in Toad Lane
will be the grocery-store, with 200 superficial square yards inside ; also a cellar below and a chamber above
the shop of equal size for the storage of goods. The drapery establishment also contains 200 yards on
the ground-floor, cellared for warehousing of stocks of goods, and an upstairs room of equal measurement
for show-room. The shoe-shop will be in Toad Lane, and contain 85 Superficial square yards, and a
cellar under of the same size for working purposes belonging to this department. Over the shoe-shop will
be the offices of the society. On the third storey will be two committee-rooms and one waiting-room; also
the library-room of 200 superficial square yards; and the news-room occupying another 200 yards. The
fourth storey will be in one room 77 feet by 52 feet, and will hold for meeting purposes 1650 persons sitting,
or about 4000 standing. The building from the ground-level will be 66 feet high. The warming apparatus
will be under the staircase, and hot water for tea-parties, etc., at the top landing of the stairs. Lavatory
and water-closet on each landing. Mr. James Cheetham, of Spotland Road, Rochdale, is the architect, and
the premises are expected to be completed and ready for opening and sale of goods in 1868.
CLIMATE AND SANITARY CONDITION OF THE TOWN.—The natural position of Rochdale is as favourable
as could be desired for health, being chiefly placed on two hills sloping to the river Roch, which, running
through the centre of the town at a rapid rate, sweeps away the refuse brought down by the sewers or by rain.
As bearing on climate, the variation of temperature is important, and the annual mean of the year 1846–7
of the monthly temperature was, maximum 62°Fahrenheit, minimum 27°, range or difference 35 degrees.
In 1847–8, the figures were 65°, 30°, 35°, so that the average or mean range was the same. In London, the
range for both years was 37°; in Durham, 33° and 36°. In these years, the average of the mean or difference
at Derby was 30° and 37°; at Torquay, 28° and 25°; and at Liverpool (the least variation), 26° and 25°.
The following shows the direction and duration of winds in Rochdale in the three years named :—
1846. 1847. 1848. 1846. 1847. 1848.
Days. Days. Days. Days. Days. Days.
South g & & 36 37 25 North § & & 7 22 7
South-west g e 67 54 59 North-east º e 27 30 30
West, sº & . I 03 97 135 East & * ſº 67 58 59
North-west g * 21 39 23 South-east & e 37 28 28
The rainfall in Rochdale in the year ending June 1847 was 44 inches (136 days); in the following year,
1848, 58.4 inches (159 days); or an average of the two years, 51.2 inches (147; days). The return for
Liverpool in the same years was 27-5 and 34.9 inches (178 and 189 days), average 31-2 (1834 days). The
rainfall in 1865 was but 31 inches. In fact, the rainfall of Rochdale is large, approaching the nearest of any
town to that of Kendal, which in the same years was 467 and 59.2 inches (172 and 190 days); average, 52.9
inches (181 days); which quantity Rochdale approached within 1:7 inch ; and yet Rochdale had 20 fewer
days on which rain fell than the average of all England. But this excess of rain is not regarded as injurious
to health or longevity. Kendal, with the heaviest rainfall, has a very small or low rate of mortality. It is
concluded that its climate and position are not answerable for the excess of mortality in Rochdale, but that
this mortality is rather attributable to certain removable causes of disease, described generally by the Health of
Towns Commission as “want of drainage, paving, and cleansing; ill-conditioned dwellings, density of popula-
tion, and scanty supplies of water.” In 1848, two-thirds of the houses in Rochdale were on lines of undrained
streets, exposed to the pestilential effluvia of accumulated stagnant waters. Of 18 miles of streets, 10 were paved
and 8 unpaved (in 1848), the latter not cleansed by the scavengers, and only 62 streets out of 193 were swept
weekly. In a full and cheap supply of water Rochdale has greatly improved, as a consequence of the exten-
sions of the waterworks. Burial of the dead in localities surrounded by the dwellings of the living is another
cause of disease and death. In 1848 there were twelve burial-grounds in the town, some unfit from the
nature of the ground, and all from contiguity to dwellings. The principal grave-yard was then full, and taking
the mortality of the town (exclusive of the parish) at 800 yearly, 700 bodies were yearly deposited therein.
However, this state of things has been greatly changed for the better by the closing of most of the town
burial-grounds and the opening of the cemetery. Great want of ventilation in workshops and dwellings was
another great cause of disease and death. It is only due to the local authorities to state that they have done
much, year after year, to improve the unsatisfactory sanitary state of the town. In 1841 the deaths in the
parish of Rochdale were 23-6 in 1000 or 2:36 per cent. In the borough, in 1848, the deaths were 1 in 312,
500 QThe #istory of 3Lancashire.
or about 3.2 per cent of the population. The average annual deaths in the borough for eight years were
1641, and the average age at death was, in Spotland 20 years 7 months; Castleton, 21 years; Wardleworth,
22 years 4 months; average in the borough, 21 years 4 months; the average age at death in the whole of
Lancashire being 22 years 10 months, and in the whole of England 26 to 28 years." The mortality in Roch-
dale Union, for the average of the five years ending 1866 was 2284, or 1 in 415 of the population; and in
the borough the deaths were 880, or 1 in 44'4, and the average age of all who were interred in the Rochdale
Cemetery for the last ten years was 27. These figures show a remarkable improvement in the sanitary
condition of the town since 1848, which may in some degree be attributed to the greater attention to surface
cleansing, paving, and sewering, and to the removal of nuisances since the Improvement Act of 1853 came into
force; also to the closing of the intramural burial-grounds, to which reference has been made. Most of the
streets left unpaved in 1848 are now paved, and the numbers of streets regularly swept are 12 twice a-week,
121 once a-week, and 40 once a fortnight. The unpaved and unsewered streets now existing are in the new
portions of the town.
Rochdale is more distinguished for the number of its charities, than for the magnitude of the donations and bequests by which
they are supported. In the enumeration of the charitable institutions, the Free Grammar-School, from its antiquity and importance,
claims the precedency. This school was built by the parishioners and endowed by Dr. Matthew Parker, the second Protestant
archbishop of Canterbury, in the year 1562, on a site near the parish church ; “from his good will towards the inhabitants of the
said parish, that their youth might be brought up in the learning of true piety, and the Latin tongue.” The endowment assigned
to the school amounted to £17 a-year, that is £15 a-year for the head-master, and £2 a-year for the under-master, and the stipends
were made payable out of the archbishop's rectorial tithes, of which Sir John Byron was the lessee.” The endowment of Rochdale
grammar-school, like that of many other schools in Lancashire, instead of being contingent upon the value of corn or of land, did not
adapt itself to the altered value of money, and in that way failed to produce to the rising generation, in each successive age, the
benefits which it was the intention of the founder to confer. When the rectory was sold in 1814, the sum of £1300 three per cent
consols was purchased in the name of the accountant-general “to the credit of the cause Lord Eldon v. the Archbishop of Canter-
bury, exparte lot 27 of Rochdale tithes,” for the benefit of the vicar of Rochdale and the schoolmaster, and for the repairs of the
chancel, and in lieu of other charges upon the rectory; but it does not appear that the school was benefited by this financial opera-
tion—£17 being still the sum paid yearly to the masters of the grammar-school. The endowment of the school has been augmented
by several benefactions subsequent to its foundation, amongst which is a legacy of £20, bequeathed by Jeremy Hargraves in 1696;
a legacy of £100, left by James Holt, of Castleton Hall, esq., in 1712; and £120, bequeathed by Mrs. Mary Shepherd, only part
of which last-mentioned sum devolves upon the grammar-school. “The master of the school considers himself bound to teach
such boys of the parish of Rochdale,” say the commissioners for inquiring concerning charities, in their nineteenth report, “as
apply for such instruction as is mentioned in the foundation-deed—viz, ‘in true piety and the Latin tongue;' but no boys having
applied for admission without requiring to be taught in other branches of literature, he considers himself authorised, and does in
fact, make his own charges. The same system appears to have prevailed previously to the present master's appointment.” The
commissioners conceive that a number of children ought to be instructed in this school free of expense, and they express that
opinion very intelligibly in their report, which has produced the desired effect. Rochdale school has no direct presentations to the
universities, but Dr. Samuel Radcliffe, Principal of Brazenose, a native of the town (as he records in his will), in the year 1648
bequeathed £40 a-year in land, in Harrowden, Bedfordshire, to two scholars from the schools of Steeple Aston, in the county of
Oxford ; of Rochdale or Middleton, in the county palatine of Lancaster ; or any of the under-graduates of Brazenose College, who
are unpreferred.”
“The Rochdale Free English School,” or as it is commonly called “Mrs. Hardman's School,” on the Vicar's Moss, has a revenue
of £109, 16s, a-year, derived from a bequest of £500, left by the will of John Hardman, esq., for that purpose, in the year 1759,
improved by his mother, Mrs. Jane Hardman, in the purchase of land, the proceeds to be applied towards the teaching, to read
English, write, and cast accounts, of so many children of Rochdale as the trustees shall appoint. Mrs. Hardman built the school-
house in 1769. Whitworth's charity of £3:4: 10 a-year is applied in aid of the funds of the school on Dr. Bell's system.
The charity of Mrs. Dorothy Holt of Castleton Hall, widow, affords instruction to six poor girls of Castleton or Rochdale. There
is also a school at Milnrow, in the township of Butterworth, endowed in 1726 by Alexander Butterworth of Bellfield Hall, with an
income of £20 a-year, for which sum the master gives instruction to twenty children. There are also schools in Ogden and Holling-
worth, near Milnrow, endowed by John Hill, gentleman, in 1728, the masters' Salaries being payable out of two estates of the value of
£80: 12s. a-year; and the school at Littleborough, founded in 1688, by Theophilus Hallewell of Pyke House, esq., councillor at law, and
endowed with a rent-charge of £6 a-year. The school was further endowed by his brother Captain Richard Halliwell, esq., by will
in 1699.4 Toad Lane School at Spotland affords instruction to twenty girls; and twelve children, boys and girls, are instructed at
Whitworth School, founded by Mr. James Starkie in 1724, out of a revenue of £13: 18s. per annum, in which Guest's charity has
merged. Todmorden and Walsden School, founded by Rev. Richard Clegg, vicar of Kirkham, in 1713, affords instruction to four
children. Wharpton School in Saddleworth, endowed in 1729 by Ralph Hawkyard with the sum of £280, had, from that time to the
year 1827, afforded instruction in the English, Latin, and Greek; but owing to the bankruptcy of the principal trustee, in whose hands
the funds were deposited, it was then shut up, and the benefits ceased. Lydgate School affords gratuitous instruction to four poor
children. The National and British Schools of Rochdale educate girls and boys; and the Sunday schools attached to all the places of
public worship, belonging to the various religious denominations in the town, impart instruction to several thousands of children.
1 The above facts are derived from a lecture on the Sanitary
the ministers to great distress, the archbishop brought “the farmer,”
Condition of Rochdale, delivered at the People's Institute, in
Sir John Byron, into court in 1561, who, after a protracted and
November 1848, by Mr. Edward Taylor, chemist, of Rochdale.
* The origin of this foundation is curious and little known ; the
rectories of “Blachorne, Rachedale, and Whalley,” formerly appro-
priated to the abbey of Whalley, together with the chapels (sacellis)
annexed to them, having devolved upon Matthew [Parker] arch-
bishop of Canterbury, by exchange with Henry VIII. and his son
Edward VI. ; on the dissolution of the monasteries the rectorial
tithes were leased to Sir John Byron, who amongst other conditions
was engaged to pay the old annual stipend charged on the rectory
by the abbey of Whalley, to each of the ministers performing
divine service in the chapels attached to the churches of Blackburn,
Whalley, and Rochdale. Being a zealous Roman Catholic, and hav-
ing failed to fulfil this part of the agreement, and thereby reduced
costly litigation, under the fear of losing the tithes, cast himself
upon the clemency of the archbishop, who adjudged that he should,
over and above the rent agreed for in his lease, and in addition to
the stipends to be paid to the ministers, pay £17 a-year for the
maintenance of Schoolmasters of a free grammar-school, to be
founded in Rochdale, in the archbishop's name. These conditions
Sir John accepted with avidity, and hence the origin of the Roch-
dale grammar-school, which was rendered permanent by the sum of
£1.7 per annum being charged upon the tithes of the parish in per-
petuity.—Harl. MSS. cod. 7049, p. 271. See also a History of
Rochdale Grammar-School, by Rev. Canon Raines, M.A., 8vo, 1845.
* Carlisle On Endowed Schools, i. 179.
* Gastrell's Wotitia Cestriensis, vol. ii. pp. 138-9.
#umbrel of $alfort—3&Grijbaſe 33arisiſ. 50 L
In addition to the foundations for affording instruction to the children of the poor, there are a number of other charities
mentioned in the commissioners' report, the most important of which is the charity of John Kenyon, gentleman, of York, who
bequeathed by will of the date of the 26th of January 1789, for placing out as many poor children, as well boys as girls, being
children of settled inhabitants of the township of Rochdale (which the Court of Chancery has construed of the parish of Rochdale),
apprentices to any trade or profession as the trustees may think fit. Much difficulty has arisen in the administration of this charity.
fund, and an accumulation had taken place, till in the year 1826, the sum of £6365: 17:8 was invested in the 3 per cent consols,
yielding annual dividends to the amount of £190:19: 6, and considerably augmented since. This charity is governed by five
trustees, who hold meetings for apprenticing and for transacting the general business of the charity on the second Thursday in
January, May, July, and September. The general annual meeting is held on the second Thursday in January, when the masters
and apprentices are expected to appear before the trustees. To these are to be added Wolfenden's charity, being the interest of
£100 to the poor of Huddersfield; Mr. Josiah Gartside's charity (1712), the rents of two houses amounting to about £120 per
annum; and Mrs. Grantham's charity, the interest of £80: 6:8, to the poor of Castleton; Alexander Butterworth's charity, being
a rent-charge of £5 a-year, to the poor of Butterworth ; and John Brearley's charity, being the profits of £50 to the poor of
Spotland; and Mrs. Shepherd's charity, being the profits of £120, invested in land, divided amongst six poor women of Whitworth
and the master of Rochdale Grammar-School; with some minor charities.
Amongst the modern charitable institutions of Rochdale may be enumerated the Ladies' Charity, estab-
lished more than fifty years, which has afforded relief to upwards of 9000 poor women since its commence-
ment. It is managed by a committee of ladies, a treasurer and secretary (ladies), and matron. The Rochdale
Good Samaritan Society, was established in 1832, since which date its visitors have made more than 66,000
visits to sick persons, and given to them in relief about £3500. The income of the society for 1865–6, from
subscriptions and other sources, was only £134, and the Sum expended in relief £115. The Rochdale Benevo-
lent Society, established in 1807, has only a yearly income from subscriptions of about £50, and its visitors
distribute the greatest part of this amount to afflicted persons. The Dispensary, No. 30 Lord Street, is
managed by a president, vice-president, treasurer, committee, and honorary secretary, and by a staff of medical
gentlemen and a resident medical officer. Attendance is given at the Dispensary daily, at noon and at
6 P.M. In 1866, 2106 patients were admitted. The Temperance Society meets weekly in the Temperance
Hall, Smith Street. -
Amongst literary institutions are the Lyceum, Baillie Street ; the Church Institution, in the Walk; and others.
The Rochdale Circulating Library in the Stationers' Entry was established in 1770. There are 120
proprietors and a few subscribers. The number of works is about 2500, which are constantly replenished.
It is open every day except Saturday from 2 to 5.
The newspapers published in Rochdale (January 1868) are the Observer (liberal), proprietor Mr. W. A.
Scott; the Spectator (liberal), proprietor Mr. David Thomas; and the Pilot (tory), proprietor Mr. Malcolm
Douglas. All are published on Saturday, price one penny.
Amongst the associations for recreation and the places of amusement are the Rifle and Athletic Club,
which has its rifle-range at the Roche Mills, and its reading-room and gymnasium in Butts Entry. The Prince
of Wales's Theatre was opened in 1860, being a joint-stock or share undertaking. It was erected at a cost
of £8000, and the building will accommodate 2000 persons.
The mercantile class, and the manufacturers of Rochdale, have attained to a considerable degree of
opulence." The manufactures of this place consist principally of flannels, coatings, and friezes,” in woollens; and
of calicoes and strong goods, in cottons; but the flannel and Woollen fabrics, the staple trade of this frontier
parish, are manufactured not only in the town but also at Milnrow and other neighbouring villages. There are
also large manufactories of cotton, woollen, and silk machinery, of wood-cutting machinery, and of steam-engines.
Many of the Flemish emigrants in the reign of Edward III. took up their abode in the western part of
this parish, where they introduced their craft as clothiers. Two centuries afterwards, Rochdale still continued
famous for its woollen manufacture, and the aulneger of Queen Elizabeth found it necessary to employ a
deputy here for the stamping of woollen cloth, under the authority of the act passed in her 8th regnal year
(1566). The minerals of the parish, consisting of coal, stone, and, flags—long used as slate—contribute
essentially to the prosperity of the place; and the Rochdale Canal,” which, passing from the duke of Bridge-
water's canal at Manchester to the Calder and Ribble navigation at Sowerby Bridge, near Halifax, opens a
water communication between the eastern and the western Seas, as well as with the principal seats of trade
in the counties of York and Lancaster, serves to place the trade of Rochdale on a footing of equality with the
most favoured towns of these great commercial counties. The Lancashire, and Yorkshire railway, with its
branches, has also vastly promoted communication with all parts of the kingdom.
One of the great staple manufactures is that of flannel, of which the production is stated to be not less
* The observation, so often repeated, “that strangers prosper manufacturing prosperity for which the town and parish have so
here, while the natives are unfortunate in their undertakings,” is
just as applicable to Rochdale as to other places, and not more so,
except so far as the absurd proposition may effect its own accom-
plishment, by stimulating and giving confidence to the exertions of
the one, and by paralysing and depressing those of the other.
Strangers and natives are alike prosperous when they apply the
same means; and enterprise, industry, sobriety, and integrity,
have conducted many a native family to that trading and
long been distinguished.
* A coarse warm cloth, made first in Friesland, and usually worn
by persons of low condition, hence—
“Cloth of Gold, do not despise
To match thyself with Cloth of Frieze.”
“Cloth of Frieze, be not too bold,
Though thou art matched to Cloth of Gold.”
* Made under the authority of an act passed in April 1794.
502 (ſhe #igtorg of £attragijire.
than 16,000 pieces weekly. There are within the borough of Rochdale 1421 power-looms, and in the
adjacent district, chiefly on One side of the borough, 4095 looms; making a total of 5514 power-looms within
the flannel-manufacturing district of Rochdale. In 1832, the steam-engines within the parish were of the
aggregate horse-power—in the Butterworth division, of 104; Spotland, 461 ; Castleton, 689; and Hun-
dersfield, 929 horses'-power. Total 2186 aggregate horse-power in the parish. In November 1867, the
following return exhibits the amount of horse-power (steam and water) in the various classes of factories and
works within the Rochdale Union :-

TOWNSHIP Cotton Woollen pºin Mººne Total
N & * & T Ił O g
and Fulling. part Cotton. other Works.
Blatchinworth and Calderbrook 429 229 13] 97 886
Butterworth . º º 321 299 212 342 1174
Castleton *> º & 2328 214 50 932 3524
Spotland * tº * 4307 672 565 540 6084
Wardleworth . º e 776 337 30 284 1427
Wuerdle and Wardle . e 635 321 180 30 1166
Total Union tº 8796 2072 1168 2225 14,261
The register of the parish church exhibits strong evidence that the population of Rochdale was quad-
rupled during the last century," and, at the present rate of increase, the probability is, that at the end of the
present century the numbers will be four times as many as they were at the beginning of it. Mr. John
Hampson, “clerk, vicar of the parish of Rochdale,” in an issue between Archbishop Parker and Sir John
Byron, knight, 3d Elizabeth (1561), deponed that there were then “5000 houseling people” [i.e. communicants]
in this parish ; but the probability is, that the population did not at that time exceed 8000(). According to
the census of 1861 they may be estimated at 112,000, making an increase, during three centuries, of
fourteenfold.
Formerly the bread chiefly eaten by the labouring classes in this parish was oat cake, and the same kind
of food was in pretty general use in the manufacturing parts of the West Riding of Yorkshire. In the
districts where this peculiarity prevailed the people were proud of the distinction; and a regiment of soldiers,
raised in the east of Lancashire and the west of Yorkshire at the beginning of the last war, took the name
of the “Haver Cake Lads,” assuming as their badge an Oat Cake, which was placed for the purpose of
attraction on the point of the recruiting-sergeant's sword. Oat bread is still eaten here and in other parts
of Lancashire, chiefly in the mountainous regions, but its use is by no means so general as it was half-a-
century age. Wooden shoes, since called clogs, once so general in this neighbourhood, are now also gradually
falling into disuse; though great numbers, both male and female, still adhere to this primitive article of
rustic attire.
The disastrous years of 1825-6 checked the progress of improvement in Rochdale, as well as in all the
other manufacturing towns of Lancashire. Great improvements have, however, been made during the last few
years: a new bridge built over the Roch in John Street ; several of the narrow streets, of which, for many ages,
there was reason to complain, have been made wide and handsome, and the Vicar's Moss covered with new and
commodious streets; a new market-place and public hall have been erected, suitable to the rising consequence of
the town ; a town-hall and public baths are now in the course of erection ; a large public cemetery on the Bury
road has been opened; and other improvements are in progress. Four ample reservoirs, situated in the town-
ships of Spotland and Wardle, afford to the town excellent water through the medium of public works,
established by act of parliament in the 49th of George III., and now belonging to the corporation ; and a com-
pany of proprietors, who dispensed from their works, below Castle Hill (opened May 1824), a never-failing supply
of coal-gas, which is made applicable to lighting the public streets, disposed of the same to the corporation
of Rochdale in 1844 for the sum of £24,000. Within the last forty years the bridge over the Roch had been
widened, and its area was again considerably extended in 1866 by the corporation, by which the
communication between the opposite parts of the town has been facilitated, and the entrance from the west
considerably improved.”
Anciently the market of Rochdale was held on the Wednesday, under a charter granted by Henry III.
to Edmund de Lacy, in the 25th year of the king's reign ;” but in the early part of the reign of George III.
the market-day was changed to Monday, and it is now held on that day for the manufactures of the town
and district, and for the sale of wool, oil, dye-wares, and grain; and on Saturday for provisions. The fairs,
of which there are three annually, are held on the 14th of May, on Whit-Tuesday, and on the 7th of
November—all of them for cattle, horses, and pedlery.
* Extract from the parish register (St. Chads):—In 1700, 268 the old bridge was partially thrown down by a great concourse of
christenings, 177 burials, 91 marriages; in 1800, 873 christenings, people, who pressed to witness a bull-bait in the bed of the river ;
630 burials, 516 marriages. by which fatal accident seven persons lost their lives.
* On the 8th of November, in the year 1820, the battlement of * Placita de Quo Warranto apud Lanc. 20 Edward I. Rot. 9.
#umbren of Šalfort—130thnale parish. 503
The annual festival of the RUSH-BEARING is celebrated here and in most of the adjacent villages, as
well as in some of the other parishes of Lancashire. This custom, partaking of the nature of a village-wake,
is of high antiquity, probably as remote as the age of Pope Gregory IV., who, on the introduction of
Christianity into this country, recommended to Mellitus, the coadjutor of St. Augustine, that on the
anniversary of the dedication of the Christian churches wrested from the pagans, the converts to Christianity
should “build themselves huts of the boughs of trees about their churches, and celebrate the solemnities
with religious feastings.”
On a fixed day in every year (in the town of Rochdale, the festival is held on the 19th of August) a
kind of obtuse pyramid of rushes, erected on a cart, is highly ornamented in front, and surmounted by a
splendid garland. To the vehicle so laden a number of young men, from thirty to forty, wearing white
jackets and ornamented with silver articles, ribands, and flowers, are harnessed in pairs. A band of
music is always in attendance, which strikes up on the cart moving on, and thousands of spectators, attracted
from a distance of several miles around, hail with repeated cheers the showy pageant. The procession then
advances to the town, and, on arriving in front of each of the inns, a kind of morris-dance is performed by
the men in harness, who jingle copper bells, and beat, or rather stamp, time with their wooden shoes—the
clown, who is dressed in fancy attire, all the while collecting money to refresh the actors in the grotesque
exhibition. From the town the procession passes to the neighbouring mansions, where the dance is again
repeated, and where the performers are presented by the ladies with garlands and money. Till about the
early part of the present century, the Rush-Bearing usually terminated at the church, and the rushes were
spread on the clay-floor under the benches used as seats by the congregation to serve as a winter carpet;
while the garlands were hung up in the chancel and over the pews of the families by whom they had been
presented: here they remained till their beauty had faded; but now the church is generally the last place
thought of in this festival, which has degenerated into mere rustic Saturnalia. Formerly not fewer than
six or eight of these processions from different parts of the parish entered Rochdale on the annual celebration,
but they have now dwindled down to one or two, and, like the other pastimes of the county, they are gradually
dying away.
LOCAL EVENTS AND OCCURRENCES,
1788. The [Rochdale] Canal, from Rochdale to Sowerby Bridge, opened.
1790. The first stage-coach plied between Rochdale and Manchester, by Robin Grey.
1799. The flood known as the Rush-bearing flood. The River Roch rose 11 feet at Rochdale Bridge.
1800. Meal and flour riots; two old men shot by the Rochdale Volunteers.
1802. The canal opened from Rochdale to Laneside.
1804. The Rochdale Canal opened throughout from Sowerby Bridge to Manchester.
1808. Riots by turn-out woollen-weavers, who engaged in “shuttle-gathering.” Many shuttles having been placed in the
prison for safety, the rioters set fire to the prison, which was burnt down. The authorities obtained the aid of cavalry from
Manchester and volunteer infantry from Halifax.
1809. Six men committed from Rochdale for trial at the Lancaster Assizes for coining, and also for forgery of £1 notes. They
were all convicted and hung.
1815. The National Schools opened.
1819. The last bull-baiting in Rochdale, in the riverstead, near the southerly end of the bridge. The river-wall fell, and
seven persons were killed. -
1820. John Walmsley, esq. of Castlemere, being appointed high-sheriff of the county, his departure for Lancaster was marked
by a public procession and dinner ; and a pannier of copper coin was thrown amongst the crowd as largesse.
1820. The foundation-stone laid of St. James's Church, with a procession and ceremonial.
1824. John Entwisle, esq. of Foxholes, being appointed high-sheriff of Lancashire, his departure for Lancaster was celebrated
by a public procession and breakfast. Rochdale was first lighted with gas this year. Mr. Sadler made a balloon-ascent.
1825. The first Rochdale Police Act passed. It gave power to commissioners to light, cleanse, and watch the town, within a
radial distance of three-quarters of a mile from the centre of the Old Market-Place.
1826. Great distress in Rochdale owing to the depressed state of the woollen-trade, caused by extensive bank-failures and by
the high duties on woollen goods imposed by the American tariff. £500 was sent by government in aid of the fund for the relief
of the poor. à
i; The Rochdale Recorder, the first weekly newspaper published in the town, price 7d. It existed only a few months. In
this year power-looms were first used for weaving flannels by Mr. George Ashworth, at Sunny Bank Mill.
1829. Machinery riots, specially directed against the use of power-looms. The factory of Messrs. Chadwick in Water
Street was attacked, but was defended, and several arrests were made. An attempt to rescue the prisoners at the New Bailey;
the guard fired on the rioters and ten persons were killed.
1834. The British Schools, Baillie Street, opened.
1837. The first election and meeting of the Board of Guardians of the Poor, under the new poor-law.
1838. The Manchester and Leeds Railway, now the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway, was opened as far as Littleborough in
one direction and to Manchester in the other. A great flood in the Spodden and Norden Valleys. The water rose 15 feet at
Spotland Bridge, which was washed down, as well as Shepherd Mill Bridge and several fulling-mills.
1840. Two great church-rate contests in this year : one in July, when 8036 votes were given, resulting in a majority of 84
against a rate; and the other in August, when the returns varied. The pro-rate party stated that 13,025 votes were given, with a
majority of 113 for a rate ; the anti-rate party gave 12,887 as the number of votes, and claimed a majority of 15 against a rate.
The rate was never collected.
1852. The riots known as the “Plug-drawing,” from the rioters pulling out the plugs of steam-boilers, and thus effectually
stopping the motive power of the steam-engines. All the factories in Rochdale and the neighbourhood were thus stopped working
for 10 days.
1844. The Rochdale Police Improvement Act obtained, and the gas-works purchased by the Rochdale Improvement Commis-
504 (The #istorm of 3Lancašijire.
sioners. The Equitable Pioneers' Society (the first body of co-operatives in England) started with a capital of £28 and 28
members. -
1849. The great defalcation at the Rochdale Savings Bank, resulting in its being finally closed. The ultimate deficiency,
deducting the public subscription, was £36,000.
1850. Clement Royds, esq. of Mount Falinge, appointed high-sheriff; a public procession and holiday; an ox roasted, and a
small air-balloon ascended, which alighted at Prees, in Shropshire.
1853. The Rochdale Improvement Act passed; it gave power to Sewer the town, and to purchase lands for recreation-grounds;
to erect public baths, and to form public libraries. The Rochdale Sentinel, established by Mr. Edward Taylor, the second weekly
newspaper, published, price 4d. It may be regarded as the pioneer of the local press. It existed nearly two years.
1854. A great fire at the woollen mill in Duncan Street. Three persons were killed and twenty were seriously injured. A
great snow-storm, which stopped all the railway communication with the town for twenty-four hours. A boiler-explosion at Bridge
Field ; six persons killed.
1855. The Rochdale Cemetery opened. One-third of its area, set apart for burials with the rites of the Church of England,
was consecrated by the bishop of Manchester. -
1856. First election of councillors, aldermen, and mayor, under the Municipal Charter of Incorporation. Mr Jacob Bright was
elected first mayor.
1859. Public funeral of Mr. W. W. Burton, town-surveyor of Rochdale from 1818 to 1858. He was a well-known public
benefactor, and a strenuous protestor against church-rates, and against various public abuses.
1864. Public funeral of Mr. Alderman Livesey, a well-known reformer and chartist, and a strenuous opponent of the new
oor-law.
p 1866. The foundation of the town-hall laid by John Bright, esq., M.P., with much ceremonial, a public procession, a dinner
given by the corporation, etc.
GREAT FLOOD OF NovEMBER 16, 1866.-The greatest flood known in Rochdale since 1799 occurred on this date (Friday).
Early in the morning the river Roch was flooded, and by 9 A.M. it was washing over the Wellington Bridge, and that leading
to the Walk, both of which had been barricaded to prevent traffic. For half-a-mile above and below the centre of the town, every
open piece of ground on both sides the river was covered with water, and nearly all the manufactories close upon its banks were
compelled to closé at breakfast-time. The Burnley carriers to Rochdale had to return before getting far from Burnley. The railway
traffic was seriously interrupted during the day. The 6.30 A.M. Yorkshire train was stopped at Littleborough ; and arrangements
were made by telegraph to despatch the Yorkshire trains through Bury, and along the East Lancashire section vić Burnley, as the
Summit tunnel and all the low levels near Rochdale were impassable. It is believed that a greater quantity of water passed down
the Roch between early morning and evening than had previously occurred during forty years. At noon, however, the water had
fallen several inches, and from that time it gradually, but very slowly, subsided. At Rochdale Bridge the water rose 8; feet.
On Friday, November 16, 1866 (the day of the great flood), a destructive fire broke out in the large woollen mill of Messrs.
John Kershaw and Son, King Street, Mount Pleasant. It was discovered about 3 o'clock in the morning, and in little more
than two hours the whole pile was destroyed, and much damage done by the falling walls, etc., to the surrounding cottages. The
body of John Bamford, a pensioner, aged seventy-five years, was found among the burning materials in one of the cottages. The
total damage is stated to have exceeded £15,000. t
On Saturday, November 10, 1866, a lifeboat, built from funds liberally contributed by inhabitants of Rochdale and the neigh-
bourhood, was formally presented to the National Lifeboat Institution, and launched on the Hollingworth Lake with much ceremony
and festivity, there being 10,000 or 12,000 persons present. The contributions were raised by the untiring exertions of Mr. Robert
Taylor Heape, an alderman of Rochdale; the subscriptions amounted altogether to £510, including £50 from the Equitable Pioneers'
Society, and £20 from the Corn-Mill Society. £40 received for admissions to the grounds was handed over to the funds by the
Hollingworth Lake Company, making a total of £550. The boat, which is built of Honduras mahogany, including transport-
carriage, life-belts for the crew, etc., cost £420, and the balance, £130, has been applied to the funds of the National Lifeboat
Institution. The lifeboat was named, with the usual ceremonial, “The Rochdale and Catherine Rashleigh,”—the name of the Hon.
Mrs. Rashleigh, the wife of William Rashleigh, esq. of Polkerries, near Fowey, on the Cornish coast; Mr. Rashleigh having long
ago contributed £100 towards the cost, on condition that the boat should bear that name. The boat's station is at Pol-
kerries, and the railway companies gave it free conveyance to Fowey. The lifeboat is 32 feet long, 7 feet 4 inches wide, and rows
ten oars double-banked. Its construction combined the latest improvements, including a carriage from which it is launched and
hauled up. In 1867 a Mr. Robert Shepherd died at Rochdale, leaving £1000 in reversion for the benefit of this lifeboat.
1867. The central stores of the Equitable Pioneers' Society, in St. Mary's Gate and Toad Lane, opened. The number of
members, 6532 ; and the capital or assets, £119,766.
CASTLETON, the most ancient of the divisions of the parish of Rochdale, claims the first attention in the
history of the separate portions of the parish. In Saxon times, a castle arose here, from which the name is
derived; and it is highly probable that this castle was one of the numerous sacrifices in the conflicts between
the Saxons and the Danes. The site of the castle is still to be traced by a lofty mound, called the Castle
Hill, around which the fosse appears in distinct lines. It has been conjectured that this castle formed the
baronial mansion of Gamel the thane, but of this there is no evidence ; and the probabilities are against the
supposition, for, though certain privileges were conceded to this favourite of the Conqueror, and, though even
the foundations of dilapidated castles were viewed with respect in the Domesday Survey, the mention of a
castle on the banks of the Roch does not occur in that ancient document. In 3 Edward II. (1309-10) Henry
de Lacy, earl of Lincoln, and Margaret de Longespee, his late countess, are found possessed of the manor of
Castleton in Rochdale, with the fees belonging to it—namely “one carucate of land in Hundesfeld, one caru-
cate of land in Spotland, one bovate of land in Castleton, six acres of land in Butterworthe, and one bovate
of land in Wolfenstanesclive.”" The abbots of Stanlaw also held possessions here ; and in 1340 Richard de
Radclif and others were trustees of land in Castleton, for the abbot and convent of Whalley.”
On the dissolution of the monasteries, the abbey lands at Marland in Castleton were granted to the Radcliffes of Langley, near
Middleton, and subsequently passed, by purchase, to the Holts of Stubley, afterwards of Castleton. In 1557, Robert Holte of
Stubley, esq., is found seised of the [reputed] manors of Hundersfield, Spotland, and Castleton, with lands in Butterworth.” On
quitting Stubley, about the year 1640, Robert Holt, esq., took up his residence at Castleton Hall, on the death of his brother, and
added considerably to the estate, by purchase from William Grose and Henry Newcome, grantees from Queen Elizabeth of this part
* Duchy Records, vol. x. Inq. post Mortem, 3 and 4 Phil, et Mar. num, 7. * Escalet. de Anno 13 Edward III. num. 31.
* Duchy Records, vol. x. Inq. post Mortem, 3 and 4 Phil. et Mar. num, 7.
39tumbrell ºf Salfort–Rothbalt #arígíſ. 505
of the monastic possessions. The corroding hand of time having dilapidated the ancient hall, Robert Holt, esq., built much of the
present edifice. As a mansion, this hall is picturesque and irregular in the exterior, but commodious within ; and, in addition to
some interesting pieces of early tapestry which ornament the walls, the windows are adorned with the arms and quarterings of the
Holts, and their alliances the Chethams and the Winstanleys. On the death of James Holt, esq., in 1713, Samuel Chetham, of
Turton, esq., who had married Mary, daughter and co-heiress of the last owner, succeeded by purchase to the other co-heiresses'
shares of the Castleton estate, which was held by his family till the death of Edward Chetham, esq., in 1769, when it passed by
devise to the Winstanleys of Braunstone House, Co. Leicester, descended from another of the co-heiresses of James Holt, esq.
Mr. Winstanley sold Castleton hall to Messrs. Sedgwick and Allen of Manchester, who shortly afterwards sold it to Thomas Smith,
an opulent Rochdale merchant, in 1778, who dying in the year 1806, his eldest daughter and co-heiress, Ellen Smith, conveyed
it by marriage to John Entwisle of Foxholes, esq., M.P., whose son is the present owner. James Winstanley, esq., married one of
the co-heiresses of the Holts of Castleton, and was the father of Clement, who was the father of C. Winstanley, of Braunston House,
near Leicester, esq. Elizabeth, the other co-heiress of the Holts of Castleton, married William Cavendish, ancestor of Lord
Waterpark. The following passage, from the Testa de Nevill, refers to an ancestor of the Winstanleys: Simon holds one bovate
and the third part of a bovate [of land] of the said Adam, of ancient tenure ; and Roger de Winstanley holds of the said Adam one
and one-third bovate of ancient tenure. Sir Thomas Winstanley appears from Froissart to have been one of the knights who
accompanied the Black Prince into Spain, in the expedition to place Don Pedro on the throne. Marland, or Mereland (from its
water), in this township, is of high antiquity. Alan de Merland, Adam de Merland, and Andrew de Merland, were living in
the thirteenth century; and Roger, the sole heir, about 1279, granted his property in Castleton to the monastery of Stanlaw, then
translated to Whalley; which monastic property became successively the Radcliffes’, the Holts', and the Walmsleys', and was
retained by George Walmsley, esq., till 1829. A branch of the family of Marland continued to reside and hold lands at Marland
from the earliest period until the latter part of the seventeenth century—James Marland, of Marland, gentleman, being buried
within Trinity Chapel, in Rochdale church, in 1675.
In a bend of the Roch, to the north of Marland, is Tyrone's Bed, a woody glen, admired for its picturesque
scenery, which is said to have been the retreat of one of the earls of Tyrone in the reign of Elizabeth. A
Roman road appears to have traversed Castleton from the south-west to the north-east, in forming the com-
munication between Manchester and Ilkley.
BUTTERWORTH.-Passing from the south-west to the south-east of the parish and town of Rochdale, we
arrive at the ancient division of Butterworth. The first lord of Butterworth upon record is Reginald de
Boterworth, who built the original mansion called Butterworth Hall in the reign of Stephen or of Henry II.
In the reign of Edward I lived Sir Baldwin Teutonicus, or de Tyas, lord of the manor of Lede (Leeds), one
of the knights of St. John of Jerusalem, and private secretary to the illustrious John of Gaunt, who granted
to Sir Robert de Holland, in free marriage with Joan his daughter, all his lands in Butterworth, the Cleggs,
Garthside, Akeden, Holynworth, and Halght, in Rochdale. Surviving her husband, she married, secondly,
Sir John de Byron, to whom, conjointly by the title of “our lord and lady,” occur several grants of land in
Butterworth at this period.' The Ellands, however, as lords of Rochdale, claimed a superiority in this manor,
for “I find,” says Dr. Whitaker, from whom we quote this descent, “that Hugh de Elland granted lands here
to the same Sir John Biron, 20 Edward I. Yet in the first of that reign he had a charter of free warren in
Butterworth. By inquisition, however, taken temp. Charles II., it was found that here was no manor at all.”
Butterworth Hall was occupied by the family of that name from the reign of Stephen to 2 Edward I. (1274), when Geoffrey de
Butterworth, having sold the old hall to the Byrons, removed to Belfield Hall on the banks of the Beile, which was previously to
that time the seat of the local family, who removed to Cleggs Wood, where they remained till the middle of the 17th century.
Geoffrey de Butterworth was followed by four successive Geoffreys, when Richard de Butterworth married Allison, daughter of
Adam de Buckley. In the 37 Henry VI. (1458) “Alex. Butterworth of Belfeld,” awards in Butterworth, and his descendant,
Alexander, married, at Rochdale, 19th November 1593, Grace, daughter of William Asheton, of Clegg Hall, esq.; his son and
successor, Edward, being member of the second Presbyterial classis for Lancashire in the time of the Commonwealth, and died at
Belfield in 1653. Alexander Butterworth of Belfield, his nephew, was the last of this ancient family seated here. He married
Sarah, daughter of William Horton of Barkisland, in the county of York, esq., by whom he had several children, who died in his
lifetime. He died, in 1728, at the advanced age of eighty-eight years, having served the office of high-sheriff in 1675-6. Richard
Townley of Rochdale, mercer, the son of Mr. Townley of Dutton, near Ribchester, became possessed of Belfield, by devise of the
last owner, with the numerous estates attached to it; and in 1752 his son, Colonel Richard Townley, re-edified and new-fronted
the hall. Richard Greaves Townley, esq. of Fulburne, M.P. for Cambridgeshire, grandson of Colonel Townley, sold his Belfield
estate in 1851 to Robert Nuttall of Kempsay House, Co. Worcester, esq., and it is now vested in his sole daughter and heiress, Mrs.
Royds of Mount Falinge, Rochdale. Dr. Kuerden preserves a claim, without date, whereby the men of Butterworth, etc., claim
exemption from fines and amerciaments, and from suit of the Wapentake court, and from all tolls in markets, fairs, and all passage
of bridges and seas within England, Wales, and Ireland.”
MILNROW, in this township, has attained a local celebrity as the residence of John Collier, a man of
original genius, and the deservedly popular author of a rustic dialogue in the “Lancashire Dialect.” Tim
Bobbin, which name he assumed, was a poet, a musician, and a painter, but it was chiefly as a prose-writer
and a caricaturist that he excelled. His pictures procured him both fame and profit, chiefly for their broad
humour and the striking delineation of the passions; but his “Dialogue between Tummus o'William's
o'Margit's o'Roaph's, and Meary o'Dick's o'Tummy's o'Peggy's,” was his chef d'ouvre. This production exhibits,
with inimitable drollery, the style and manners of a native swain in the parish of the author's adoption, and
serves, unwittingly, to show that the best existing specimen of the language of our Saxon ancestors is to be
found in the vulgar tongue of South Lancashire. The church at Milnrow was originally an oratory situate at
Butterworth Hall, and, in 1400, was licensed for mass by the Bishop of Lichfield on the petition of Sir John
Byron. In 1496 the site was removed, and another chapel built on the bank of the Beil in Milnrow, which
was sold to the principal inhabitants of the township, by Richard Bold and other commissioners, for divine
service, in the reign of Edward VI. This chapel was abandoned, and another and larger edifice built in
* Black Book of Clayton in the Towneley Collection. * 4to MS, fo. 56.
3 T
506 (Iſiſt #istorg of £ancašijire.
the year 1798 on another site, and part of the expense was defrayed by a brief, amounting to £1253 : 3s.
At the present time a large and handsome parish church is about to be erected on or near the present site,
at the sole expense of the family of James Schofield, esq., an opulent flannel-manufacturer of Milnrow. By
the “Rochdale Vicarage Act, 1866,” this old parochial chapelry has been constituted a separate parish, and
the church endowed as a vicarage out of the revenues of the mother church of Rochdale.
On a bleak hill to the north of Milnrow, in this township, is the scattered hamlet of Gallows, formerly the site of the ancient
baronial executions. To the east is Wildhouse, the early habitation of the Wilds, who were seated here as early as 1284, when
Henry le Wyld and Thomas le Wyld were its occupants ; and to the west is Gartside, the seat of the family of that name in the
reigns of Henry II. and Richard I., but who removed to Oakenrod in Spotland in the reign of Henry VIII., and continued there
until the beginning of the last century. Ogden Edge, a dreary moor, rising from the banks of the rivulet, gives name to a local
family which flourished here as early as the reign of Henry II. Schofield Hall was the residence of the family of that name until
alienated by Captain James Schofield and Radcliffe Schofield, esq., his son, to Seth Clayton, esq., in 1673. The first of this family
on record was John, son of John del Scolfeld, 15 Edward II. (1321), and his descendant, James Schofield, married a daughter
of Leigh, of High Leigh, in the county of Chester, in 1560. Clegg Hall, about two miles and a half east of Rochdale, was at an
early period occupied by the Cleggs, of whom was Barnulf de Clegg, whose daughter, Quenilda, by deed without date, grants to
Michael Hunrisfield, for his homage and service, and two marks of silver paid to her in advance, “all the land that she held from
Adam her husband, before marriage, and which he held of Suard de Hunrisfield, rendering thence per annum 64 and one pair of
white gloves at the feast of St Oswald.” In 1200 Michael Clericus de Clegg occurs; in 1260 we find Nicholas and Matthew de
Clegg, Andrew de Clegg held the estate of the Saviles in the time of Henry VI. In the reign of Edward VI. Clegg Hall was held
by Ralph Belfeld, gentleman, whose daughter and co-heiress conveyed it in marriage to William Asheton, esq., son of Arthur
Asheton, esq., son of Arthur Asheton, an attorney in Rochdale, of the Bamfurlong Ashetons. The son of William Asheton dying
unmarried in 1622, the estate passed to Edmund Haworth, of Haworth, esq. From this family it went by marriage to the Hultons
of Hulton, and was sold in the last century to the Entwisles of Foxholes, who, in their turn, sold it to Mr. Fenton of Bamford Hall,
whose grandson, James Fenton, esq., M.A., F.S.A., is the present owner." The township of Butterworth contains three ancient
hamlets—viz. Hollingworth, Clegg, and Butterworth—and two superior divisions, the lordship side and the freehold side, from
which two constables and two overseers are returned, with two churchwardens. -
Iron mines have been wrought in this township since the year 1744, at a place called Tunshill or
Tunchill; but, though the Ore is of excellent quality and not deficient in quantity, these works have never
been carried on extensively, and for several years they have been wholly discontinued.
HUNDERSFIELD, or Honorsfield, the eastern portion of the parish of Rochdale, is skirted on the Yorkshire
side by the lofty ridges of Blackstone Edge, Walsden Edge, and Stony Edge. This division of the parish is
seven miles and three-quarters in length, and five miles in breadth. While the ancient part of the town of
Rochdale is comprehended within the divisions of Castleton; and Spotland, the more modern and hand-
some part of the town extended itself forty years ago to Hundersfield, of which it forms the south-west boundary;
but during the last twenty years Castleton has again become the favourite locality, and the Manchester road
is studded with handsome mansions and fashionable villas. The original name, according to Dr. Whitaker,
was Honorsfield, from Honorius, a Saxon chief, but it is equally probable, from many of the belligerent ap-
pellations in this part of the parish, such as War-dell, War-land, Red-ditch, etc., that in early times it was the
scene of some memorable victory achieved for the country's safety, and hence called the Field of Honour, or
Honorsfield. In the reign of Stephen the name of Michael de Hunrisfield, son of Suard, lord of Hunrisfield,
occurs in a deed without date, but fixed by collateral circumstances in that age. This extensive lordship is
afterwards found in the possession of an ancient family named Stubley, who occupied the hall of that name.
Foxholes, in the hamlet of Wardleworth,” in the division of Hundersfield, is the seat of the Entwisles, a
distinguished Lancashire family. The monument in the parish church, already quoted, records the achieve-
ments in arms of Sir Bertyn Entwissel, baron of Brybeke, one of the heroes of Agincourt. Subsequently we
find the Entwisles seated at Entwisle Hall, in the parish of Bolton, described by Camden as “a neat and
elegant mansion.” Foxholes was originally built by Edmund Entwisle, esq., soon after the Reformation, and
for upwards of two centuries afforded an interesting specimen of the Elizabethan style of architecture; but,
in the year 1793, it was displaced by the present house, erected by John Entwisle, esq., who served the office
of high-sheriff of the county palatine of Lancaster in 1798. His son, John Entwisle, esq., M.A., High-Sheriff,
1824, and M.P. for the borough of Rochdale, dying in 1837, was succeeded by his only son, John Smith
Entwisle, esq., late High-Sheriff of the county. He is the present proprietor of Foxholes, Castleton Hall,
Schofield Hall, Buckley Hall, Hamer Hall, and Haworth Hall.
Buckley Hall was a venerable stone building with gables, and claimed an affinity with a very numerous progeny in this parish.
Geoffrey de Buckley, who fell in the battle of Evesham, 49 Henry III, gave lands in Newbold to Adam de Holden, his nephew, by
deed without date. This Geoffrey was grandson of John de Buckley, of Buckley, in the parish of Rochdale. Rafe, the sixth from
Geoffrey, lived in the reign of Henry V., and glazed the great east window in the cathedral church of Worcester, and another
window in Lichfield church, where were to be read Latin inscriptions: “Pray for the souls of Ralph de Buckley, esq., and Katherine
his wife, who caused this window to be made, and for the souls of Geoffrey de Buckley and Alice his wife.” Robert Buckley had this
reputed manor with lands in Hundersfield and Spotland in 41 Elizabeth (1599).4 Edward Buckley, esq., buried in Trinity Chapel
within the church of Rochdale in 1687, was the last heir-male in lineal descent of this family. William Buckley, of Buckley and
+ Gastrell's Notitia Cestriensis, vol. ii. p. 143. killed a stag in Rochedale, without the forest. This charge appears
* The local name of Wardhyl was known in this parish at an to have been unfounded, and the foresters were indicted for false
early period. In 20 Edward 1. (1292) the foresters of Henry de imprisonment, but they evaded punishment by the plea that the
Lacy repaired to the house of Nicholas de Werdhyl by night, and injury was committed before the passing of the statute of West-
conveyed him to the court of Clyderhaw, where they imprisoned minster against such offences.—Placita de Quo Warranto, Rot. 13 d.
him till he paid a fine of two marks for having, as they alleged, * Duchy Records, vol. xvii. n. 58. 4 Ibid.
#umbrel of $alfort –$grijbalº. 33arisiſ. 507
Little Haworth Hall in Rochdale, esq., succeeded his brother, Dr. Thomas Buckley, in the male representation of the family in 1702,
and having had some dispute about the right of way in a narrow lane near Preston, on the 9th August 1722, with Major Crooke,
late High-Sheriff of the county, a duel immediately ensued, in which the major was killed, and Captain Buckley was tried, and
found guilty of manslaughter. Thomas Buckley, M.D., who died in Rochdale in 1697, left a daughter, Ann, who married Thomas
Foster, prothonotary of Preston, the issue of which marriage was Thomas Foster Buckley, esq., of Preston, father of Edward
Buckley, who sold the estate of Buckley to Robert Entwisle, esq., of Foxholes, and died in 1816. Some parts of the old Hall still
remain, but a large modern mansion has been erected near it by William Whitworth Schofield, esq., J.P., and is called by the
Original name.
Hamer Hall, the ancient seat of one of the local families in Hundersfield, is situated a little to the
south-east of Foxholes. In the reign of Edward IV, this hall, since modernised, was occupied by John de
Heymer; from him it descended, through several generations, to Thurston de Heymer, living in 1574; and
the last resident here of the local name was George Hamer, esq., by whom the estate was sold, in 1809, to
Mr. Entwisle. One of the largest villages in the parish of Rochdale is Smallbridge; here the commissioners
for erecting new churches have raised one of their ecclesiastical edifices for the religious instruction of the
3000 inhabitants of this densely-peopled hamlet ; and Howard Hall, in Hundersfield, anciently a stately
mansion, but now a plain substantial stone-building, has the reputation, and that on no mean authority, of
being the noble spring from whence arose “All the blood of all the HOWARDS.” Sir William Dugdale, in
an original MS. formerly in the possession of John Elliott, esq. of Rochdale, after stating that —
“I have seene and read a M.S. entituled ‘ Iter Lancastriense,” or the Lancashire Itinerary, written by Richard James, born in the
Isle of Wight, Bachelor of Divinity, and one of the senior Fellows of Corpus Christi College, in Oxford,” etc., adds—“I doe Ereby make
known to all the Nobility and Gentry of England that the Iter Lancastriense doth attest and beare record that the Illustrious Dukes, the
Honourable Earls, the Noble Barons and Knights of the renowned family of the Howards, did derive their originall from the ancient
progeny of the Howords of Howord Hall, in the vill or territorie of Howord, in Honorsfeld, in the parish of Ratchdale, and county of
Lancaster.”—“I, for record and testimony of these things above specified, sett to my hand and seale of my office, the 8th of April, 1665,
17th of Chas. II.”—WILLM. DUGDALE, Norroy King of Armes.
Dr. Whitaker combats the hypothesis raised by what he sarcastically calls the “capacious faith of Dugdale,” contending
strongly that there is not an iota of proof which connects the Hawards of Great Haworth, in Rochdale parish, with the Howards
of Wiggenhall, in Norfolk; and this is unquestionably true. It is, however, true also, that Sir William Dugdale does not profess to
give the evidence, but merely to state the result of the examination of that evidence upon his own mind, in confirmation of which
he adds another testimonial, dated in 1644, in which he says, “that it is clear, from above seventy deeds without date, that the
Howards, dukes of Norfolk, do derive their descent from the Howords of Great Howarth, and that William Howard of Wigenhall,
in Norfolk, a person skilful in the law (was preferred by King Edward I. to be a judge in the court of common pleas); and that
this said William was a direct descendant from Osbert de Howard, who was, as before mentioned, the first on record in the family.”
Upon Osbert Howord de Howord Henry I, bestowed certain lands in Howord, in the territory of Honorsfeld, for his good and
faithful services, and made him master of the buck-hounds. After him followed (according to an elaborately deduced pedigree by
Theophilus Howarth, M.D., in the 17th century) a second Osbert, whose son Orme was succeeded by Peter Howard, in the reign of
Henry IV. Michael Howard, cousin and heir, followed, and had William, whose son Henry had William, who had Henry, whose
son and heir William de Howard had Henry, who was followed by William ; and then Henry, who had William, who had Thomas
Howorth, esq., father of Edmund, who had Henry, whose son Edmund had Robert, whose cousin and next heir was Robert
Howarth of Howarth, esq., whose successor was Edmund, father to Theophilus Howarth, M.D., a staunch loyalist in the civil
wars, spoken of by Dugdale as a real gentleman of good birth and family. Captain Henry Howarth, son and heir of Theophilus,
had issue two sons: 1. Henry Howarth, M.A., vicar of Burbage, Co. Wilts; 2. Radcliffe Howarth, D.C.L., Fellow of All Souls'
College, Oxon. (Founder's Kin), who died unmarried in December 1768;” whose executors sold his estate in Hundersfield to John
Entwisle, esq. of Foxholes.
Stubley, an early residence of the Holts, at a short distance from Littleborough, was originally built by
Nicholas de Stubley. Up to the period of the Reformation, the houses of the gentry of Lancashire were
principally constructed of timber, on foundations of stone; but the decrease of wood occasioned an alteration
in the materials used for building, and Stubley Hall was one of the first specimens of an entire structure of
stone or of brick in this part of the country.
The name of Holt has for centuries been associated with dignity and opulence in this parish ; and we find, in the Inquisitiones
post mortem taken in 3 Edward III. (1329), John de Holt returned as holding possessions of the castle and Honor of Clitheroe.
Stubley was sold by the Winstanleys, about 1778, to the Sedgwicks of Manchester, and the ancient hall and estate were sold, a few
years ago, to Mr. James Schofield of Heybrook, whose son, Joseph Schofield, esq., built a large mansion near the old hall. The fine
oak carving, exhibited in the rich and beautiful screen, has disappeared ; and some of the old painted glass has been placed in the
east window of Littleborough church. The Holts were strongly attached to the cause of the Stuarts; and in the list of knights in
the projected order of the “Royal Oak,” on the restoration of Charles II., the names of Thomas Holt, esq., and of Robert Holte,
both occur. The Holts of Castleton terminated, on the death of James Holt, esq., in 1713, in his four surviving daughters and
co-heiresses—viz. Frances, who married James Winstanley, esq., M.P., of Branstone, in the county of Leicester; Elizabeth, William
Cavendish, esq., of Doveridge, in the county of Derby; Mary, Samuel Chetham of Turton Tower, esq. ; and Isabella, Sir Gervase
Clifton of Clifton, bart.
LITTLEBOROUGH is celebrated as a Roman station in the iter from Mancunium to Olicana. The remains
of the Roman camp have, at the end of fifteen centuries, nearly disappeared; but the site of the works rears
its lofty front a little to the east of the village, and bears on its summit the ancient mansion of Windybank,
overlooking the numerous picturesque objects which present themselves in the valley near the junction of the
roads at the foot of Blackstone Edge. Towards the close of the last century a number of Roman coins, some
of them as early as Claudius, were dug up at Castle, on the line of this iter. At Tunshill in Butterworth,
on a farm belonging to Robert Beswicke of Pike House, esq., at least three miles to the north-east, on the
same line, which is pretty nearly that taken by the Rochdale Canal, the right arm of a silver statue of Victory
* History of Whalley, pp. 554-55. ,
* From Haworth documents lately in the possession of Mr. Elliott of Rochdale, all of which are abstracted in Canon Raines's Lanc. MSS
508 Qſìjº #igturn of £ancašijire.
was discovered in the year 1793, ten inches in length, and weighing nearly six ounces: the hand is a cast
and solid, but the arm is hollow. About the wrist there is a loose armilla, and another united to the arm
above the elbow, to the former of which is appended a plate of silver, with this inscription, formed by the
pointed stroke of a drill:—VICTORIAE LEG VI VIC VAL RVFUS VSLM. Dr. Whitaker, to whom Mr. Beswicke
presented the relic, conjectures, with much probability, that this has been the arm of a votive statue of
Valerius Rufus, broken off and lost by the Roman army in one of their marches from York to Manchester,
where the altar of Fortune proves them to have been stationed."
One of the first chapels in the parish was that of the Holy Trinity built at Littleborough. This chapel
was licensed for mass, by the abbey and convent of Whalley, on the Feast of St. Chad, the bishop, in 1471.”
In the year 1815 this venerable edifice was taken down ; and it is now replaced by a neat erection, of
debased architecture, with a small spire-steeple; the cost having been defrayed by a liberal subscription and
by successive briefs. Amongst the subscribers were Robert Beswicke, esq., Pyke House, £500; John
Beswicke, esq., Frankfort Cottage, £250; Laurence Newall, esq., Townhouse, £100. The spire was built at the
cost of Laurence Newall junior, esq. The parliamentary commissioners appointed under the act of 1650 report
that Littleborough chapel is three miles and a half from Rochdale, and “that they think it fit that the said
chapel should be made a parish church.” By the “Rochdale Vicarage Act, 1866,” this ancient parochial
chapelry has been constituted a separate parish and vicarage, and endowed out of the revenues of the mother
church. -
A church, dedicated to St. James, was built by James Dearden, esq., F.S.A., the late lord of the manor,
at Calderbrook, near Littleborough, and licensed for divine service in 1865; and not yet consecrated, but
intended to be consecrated ; and provision is made for its partial endowment by the “Rochdale Vicarage Act.”
Rising the lofty ridge of Blackstone Edge, which forms part of a continuous chain of mountains running
nearly through the centre of the island, from Inverness, in the Highlands of Scotland, to the Bay of Cardigan
in South Wales, and hence called the backbone of England, we come to Pike House, the seat of the Halli-
wells from the 4th Elizabeth (1561), having been acquired by John Halliwell of Ealees, near Littleborough,
whose ancestors were seated there in the fifteenth century, and were descended from John, son of Nicholas
del Helwal, to whom William, son of John de Stainland, gave lands in Middle Thornlee, in Stainland, in the
parish of Halifax, on the Sabbath next after the Feast of St. Barnabas the apostle, 17 Edward III. (1343),
and whose son, Richard del Helliwell senior, and Matilda his wife, had other lands from William de Presteley
and Annabella his wife, by deed dated Sunday next after the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, 5
Ric. II. (1387). Pike House was rebuilt in 1609, and modernised in 1703. On the death of John Halliwell,
esq. in 1771, the estate became vested in Robert Beswicke, esq., in right of his grandmother, Mary Halliwell
(sister of the last owner), who had married, 6th July 1720, Robert Beswicke of Manchester, esq., grandson
and heir of the Rev. Charles Beswicke, M.A., rector of Radcliffe. The direct male line failed in 1842 on the
death of John Halliwell Beswicke, esq., only son of Major John Beswicke, a deputy-lieutenant and justice of the
peace for the county of Lancaster and West Riding of York, who died 28th November 1831. The estate is
now in the possession of the daughter and heiress of J. H. Beswicke, esq., who married, on the 9th May 1867,
Clement Robert Nuttall, eldest son of Albert Hudson Royds, esq. of Mount Falinge, Rochdale, and of Crown
East Court, Co. Worcester (High-Sheriff of the last-named county), who, by sign-manual, dated Whitehall,
July 19, 1867, assumed for himself and his issue the surname (and arms) of Beswicke, to be used before that
of Royds.
On the Summit of Blackstone Edge is a reservoir of great capacity, which serves as one of the numerous
feeders of the Rochdale Canal, and near to its eastern extremity runs the division-line of the counties of
York and Lancaster. Quitting Blackstone Edge for the low road, we have a foretaste of the bold and
majestic scenery of the vale of Todmorden, which, for picturesque variety and beauty, is scarcely excelled by
any scenery in the kingdom. -
Near the summit of the Rochdale Canal, on the new line of road from Rochdale to Todmorden, at a
place called Steaner (or Stoney) Bottom, stands an old house, now in decay, of some antiquity, but which
attracts notice from its florid carved inscription in relief, running the whole length of the building, and
expressed in these terms:—
Sººººººººººººººººº.
geºgº|| ||No Mix N on | ||ºsi TEY MANNY; TTºgº
ExFTHCANTE_1(\º) |º
|L|Li'HETORMENT (º/T TY |V/ORKSDONE T
THATS IN EL& H| . ..]|Q) º --|--|-||
Ży's E_|7OO) #º ºvoi.
- |
* Clearly a votive statue, for a victory of the 6th Legion, the Victorious, by Valerius Rufus.-W. S.L.M. meaning in fulfilment of a vow.—H.
* Gastrell's Wotitia Cestriensis, vol. ii. p. 132. Many more facts there recorded.









§ º
3}umbrely of Salford—Rothbale Batis). 509
This house formerly belonged to the Eastwood family, and was probably built by them, as the initials
indicate, in 1700. It afterwards became the property of the late William Holland, esq., and is now possessed
by the Fieldens of Todmorden.
TODMORDEN and WALSDEN, the most extensive and northerly district of the division of Hundersfield, is
bounded by Cliviger on the north, the parish of Halifax on the east, and Spotland on the west. This
township is divided into three valleys, rich in wood, water, and fuel. Todmorden, anciently Todmaredene, the
valley of Fox mere or lake, stands upon the western and eastern banks of the Calder, and is partly in Lanca-
shire and partly in Yorkshire. This river, which takes its rise on the margin of the forest of Rossendale, at
the north-west extremity of the township, serves to divide the two counties. The hamlet of Todmorden
and Walsden, in the township of Hundersfield, constituted the parochial chapelry of Todmorden, within
the parish of Rochdale. The cotton power-loom manufactory of the late John Fielden, esq., M.P. for the
borough of Oldham, and his brothers, is situated in this place, and ranks amongst the largest establishments
of the kind in the kingdom.
Todmorden was claimed as a manor by the Radcliffes before 3 Henry VII. (1487), when Richard Radcliffe, esq., was said to
have received his manor of Todmorden of the king, as of his royal manor of Rochdale (Inquisitio post mortem). In 29 Henry VIII.
(1537), Edward Radcliffe, esq., conveyed his manor of Todmorden to his son and heir-apparent, Charles Radcliffe, and Margaret
his wife, to be held of the chief lord of the fee by service and a Savile rent of 8d. per annum. An examination of the ancient
evidences of this family shows that no manor was ever granted out ; but that John, son of William de la Dene, by deed, dated 27
Edward I. (1293), granted to Alice, daughter of William de Radcliffe, “in pura virginitate,” all his lands and services in Todmor-
den. These lands had been conveyed, by a dateless deed, by Thomas de la Dene to William, his son and heir, and his issue, paying
10s, annually for all services and demands. By another deed, dated 27 Edward I. (1298), Henry, son of Richard de Hipperholme,
granted to John de Lascy and Margaret his wife, and their issue, the fourth part of the vill of Todmorden, with the whole of the
annual rent, together with the moors, homages, reliefs, and escheats to the same belonging, to be held of the chief lord by the accus-
tomed services. In 1302, Henry son of Richard de Hipperholme released to John de Lascy all the claim which he ever had in a rent
from the son of Andrew de Wardhull for homage, service, wardship, etc. In 16 Edward II. (1822-3), these lands had been conveyed
by the De la Denes to the Wardhulls, and in 38 Edward III, (1364) Henry de Stones conveyed them by sale to William de Radcliffe
of Langfield, grandson of Richard de Radcliffe of Radcliffe Tower, living in 1275, to be held of the chief lord of the fee.—Radcliffe
Evidences. The Radcliffes continued to reside at Todmorden and Merley alternately for nearly four centuries, till Elizabeth, the
only child of Joshua Radcliffe, of Todmorden Hall, esq., married Roger Mainwaring, esq. of Kerringham, in the county of Chester,
who dissipated the possessions, and about the year 1700 sold the Todmorden estates. Todmorden Hall, which was much enlarged
in the beginning of the seventeenth century by Saville Radcliffe, esq., stands on the north-western bank of the Calder, and is a
fine old edifice, adorned with gables and painted glass. In one of the rooms there still remains a finely-carved oak mantelpiece, on
which are emblazoned the arms of Radcliffe, quartering Greenacres and impaling Hyde of Norbury, with crests, mottoes, and
devices, the letters S. R., K. R., and the date 1603. The hall is the property of James Taylor, esq., who resides at Calverlands,
Burghfield, Co. Berks, and it is now occupied by a respectable family, who, with laudable pride, keep in repair and maintain
the ancient character of this gem of the Vale.
The old church, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, is pleasantly situated on an eminence about the centre of
the town. The exact date of the erection is not ascertained, but it was in existence in the year 1476. The
land for the erection of the church, as well as for the cemetery and old parsonage-house, is supposed to have
been given by the Radcliffes of Todmorden Hall, being adjacent to their mansion; at the end of three
centuries the ancient edifice had fallen into decay, and was rebuilt by a brief and a subscription, chiefly
under the superintendence of Anthony Crossley of Scaitcliffe, gentleman, in 1770. A new parsonage-house
and sacristy were erected about 1825, and an additional cemetery was obtained by the parishioners, aided by
a handsome grant from the commissioners for building churches. The chancel contains a few monumental
slabs of the Crossleys.” The registers commence in 1662. In the reign of Henry VIII. the living of this
chapel, which was then in the patronage of the vicar of Rochdale, was valued at two pounds per annum. An
inquisition, taken in the time of the Commonwealth, returns the tithes collected within the chapelry of
Todmorden (although not annexed to the living) as of the yearly value of twenty pounds, and the parsonage-
house as of the annual value of six shillings and eight-pence. The commissioners recommended that the
chapel should be made a parish church, with such boundaries as are suggested in this inquisition. Its
value in 1834 was £134 ; in 1866, £150 ; the old church was until recently used for baptisms and burials,
and a Wednesday evening service. In 1828, under the Church Building Acts, the inhabitants erected an
additional church in Todmorden, and the first stone of the new edifice, called Christ Church, was laid by
the vicar of Rochdale in 1830, and consecrated by the bishop of the diocese in July 1832. By the
“Rochdale Vicarage Act 1866,” this old parochial chapelry was constituted a distinct parish and vicarage,
and the church of St. Mary (being the ancient chapel of Todmorden) was annexed to Christ Church as a
chapel of ease, with a settled stipend for the officiating minister. Christ Church has been also further
endowed out of the revenues of the mother church of Rochdale. Value in 1867, £300. The church has
1230 sittings, of which 615 are free.
In 1848 a large and commodious church, dedicated to St. Peter, was consecrated in Walsden, which is
now a parish and vicarage under the Rochdale Vicarage Act 1866. The principal benefactor to the church,
schools, and vicarage-house, was John Crossley, esq. of Scaitcliffe, M.A., barrister-at-law,
The Free School, which adjoins the churchyard, was endowed by the Rev. Richard Clegg, B.D., vicar of
* Notitia Cestriensis, note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 147. none such to be found in the church, and the inscriptions on their
* Dr. Whitaker says, and also of the Radcliffes; but there are gravestones in the churchyard are now illegible.
510 (The #t3tory of £ancašijire.
Kirkham, a native of this township, in 1713, at a cost of £100 contributed by himself, and £50 which
he collected from others; the interest to repair the school, and the remainder to the master, who has the
gratuitous use of the schoolhouse. The appointment of the schoolmaster is with the majority of the freeholders
of the township, with a power to make the trust perpetual by the existing trustees appointing others.
There are many places of worship in this town and its immediate neighbourhood, amongst others the
Friends' Meeting-house, built originally in the year 1750, in Langfield, and rebuilt in 1807 at Shrewbroad
Bank; the Methodist chapel at Zion Hill; Rehoboth Baptist chapel, at Millwood, in Stansfield; Bethel
Baptist chapel, at Lincholme, in Stansfield; the Independent Inghamite chapel, at New Chapel, in Stansfield;
the chapel of the Methodist New Connection, on the Burnley Road; two Unitarian Meeting-houses in
Langfield; a Unitarian Chapel on the scale and in the style of a fine parish church, is now being built by
the Messrs. Fielden (1867); and a Primitive Methodist Chapel, built in 1826. To each of these places of
worship Sunday-schools are attached, except to the Quakers; and it is to the honour of that community, that
all their children, however humble may be the circumstances of their parents, receive such a degree of
instruction in day-schools as to render Sunday-school instruction to them unnecessary. A free School for one
hundred poor children, belonging to the parents of all religious denominations, from four years of age till
the time they are sent to work in the manufactories, was opened here in the school-room of the Unitarian
chapel in 1825. Very large national day and Sunday Schools, with residences for the teachers, were built
adjoining Christ Church in 1839. The local newspaper is the Todmorden Advertiser.
The Crossleys, who reside at Scaitcliffe, profess to trace their origin to Saxon times. The first member of this family mentioned
in their records is “Adam del Croslegh de Todmordene in Will de Honeresfeld in the county palatine of Lancaster, and Matilda
his wife;” but this deed is without date, and cannot be earlier than the reign of Edward III., when the county was first made
palatine. The next is John del Croslegh, of Todmordene, 30 Edward III. A.D. 1365; and the family have continued ever since to
hold Scaitcliffe, without rising above the rank of lesser gentry. On the death of John Crossley, esq., an active and useful magis-
trate and barrister-at-law, on the 4th June 1864, without issue, the representation of the family devolved on his nephew, Croslegh
Dampier, esq. (eldest son of Christopher Dampier, esq., and of his wife Matilda, daughter of John Crossley, esq., F.S.A.), who
thereupon assumed, under his uncle's will by sign manual, the surname and arms of Crossley.
The three great requisites for manufacturing prosperity are found in the vale of Todmorden in perfection
—building materials, coal, and water-communication. The Calder winds it way through the valley, and the
Rochdale Canal, on the line to Sowerby Bridge, skirts the south side of the town, bringing the raw materials
to the door of the inhabitants, and conveying the manufactured fabrics, which are principally cotton, to the
markets; opening out also, by the aid of other navigations, an uninterrupted water-communication between
the eastern and western seas. It will not be thought extraordinary, under circumstances so favourable, that
Todmorden has become a place of considerable importance as a manufacturing station. By the Lancashire
and Yorkshire Railway, which runs through the valley of Todmorden, this township is now connected with
Manchester, Liverpool, and Hull. The market-day at Todmorden is on Thursday; there is also a fair for
cattle, held on the first Thursday in every month ; and two annual fairs for cattle and general traffic, the first
held on the Thursday before Easter, and the other on Michaelmas-day, the 27th of September, where more
business is transacted than at the fairs of most of the towns of the kingdom. Eagle's Crag and the other
massive rocks, at the northern extremity of the division of Hundersfield, exhibit in a striking manner the
stupendous works of nature, and Bemshaw or Beaconshaw Tower, on the Cliviger border, is in perfect keeping
with this rugged scenery.
SPOTLAND, the only remaining division of the parish of Rochdale, stretches from the Roch, on the south-
western division of the parish, to the Irwell, on its north-eastern extremity, and consists of four valleys, or
glens, watered by the Spodden—from which it derives its name—the Irwell, the Roch, and Nadin water.
From these valleys rise bold and wide-spreading hills of considerable elevation. The Roman road from
Ribchester to Manchester skirts the sides of these hills on the western border. The reputed manor of
Spotland, part of the possession of Gamel the thane, immediately after the Conquest, descended subsequently
to the Lacys, by whom the pasture of Brandwood was granted to the abbey of Stanlaw, about the year 1200,
to pasture their cattle ; and this grant was confirmed by Henry, duke of Lancaster, to whose family the
inheritance descended by marriage with the heiress of the Lacy's. When the grant was made to the monastery.
of Stanlaw, the common of Brandwood was of no great value; for it appears, by an inquisition taken
18 Edward III. (1344), that the jury found, that in the reign of King John there was not in Brandwood any
manor, or any mansion ; that the waste was not built upon nor cultivated; and that it was parcel of the
forest of Penhul. In the following reign, however, the abbot built houses on the waste, and caused a great
part of it to be enclosed; from this time it was called the Manor of Brandwood. Prior, as well as subsequent,
to these improvements, the landed possessions in Spotland were much divided amongst the Spotlands, the
Whitworths, the Ellands, the Wolstenholmes, the Heleys, the Falenges, the Chadwicks, the Bamfords, and
the Gartsides; but the pious descendants of these families, emulating each other in their charitable dona-
tions, transferred a great part of their possessions in Spotland to the abbey of Stanlaw, which was after-
wards superseded by the abbey of Whalley.
The Spotlands were situated at Spotland Fold as early as the year 1201, and probably at an antecedent period. In 19 Edward
#timbrell of salton–asthal: 33arišj. 511
II. (1325-6), Adam de Bury, by his charter to Thomas de Strangewas, and Agnes his wife, conveyed to his heirs all his lands in
Spotland (including Wolstenholme and a messuage at Preston), and, in default of their issue, to his own heirs.” It was generally
supposed that the modern division of Whitworth and Brandwood was included within the forest of Rossendale; and the numerous
vestiges of Saxon names, and of forest scenery, strongly favour this opinion. On the dissolution of the abbey of Whalley, Henry
VIII. having consigned the abbot Paslew to the hands of the executioner, on a charge of high treason, for the part he had taken in
the “Pilgrimage of Grace,” seized the forfeited possessions of that house, and made a grant of the reputed manor of Spotland, and
various messuages and lands appurtenant, to Sir Thomas Holt of Grislehurst, in the neighbouring parish of Middleton, to be
held in capite of the crown, by knight's service, and payment of the fourth part of a knight's fee. It was afterwards found that
no manor of Spotland existed, and the possessions of the Holts of Grislehurst were gradually alienated, and the whole finally
squandered, by Thomas Posthumus Holt, esq., who died in 1679.”
At the Lent Assizes, held in Lancaster in March 1833, a Suit was tried involving important interests in this parish, and illustrative
of its manorial and common rights. The process was an action of ejectment brought by James Dearden, esq., the lord of the manor of
Rochdale, to recover certain lands in the district of Brandwood, which lands had been inclosed and appropriated by Mr. Maden and other
freeholders, in contravention of his alleged rights. The question at issue was, whether Brandwood, which confessedly lies within the
ambit of the manor of Rochdale, formed part of that manor, or whether it had not by ancient acts of ownership been separated from it.
On the part of the plaintiff, the descent of the manor of Rochdale was distinctly shown by the manor-rolls to rest in him ; and it was
proved in evidence that the occupiers of lands in Brandwood, and even the defendant himself, had paid certain customary rents for the
waste of Brandwood; and that the lord of the manor of Rochdale had exercised certain acts of ownership over this district, by letting
coal-mines under the waste, and by impounding through his pinder cattle belonging to strangers and copyholders, and even to freeholders,
when a larger stock was put upon the common than it could support. For the defendant, it was contended that Brandwood formed part
of the manor of Spotland, and that it descended from the monastery of Stanlaw to the monks of Whalley, according to the monastic
chartulary in the possession of Earl Howe, exhibited in court.” From this deed it appeared that Roger de Lacy, chief constable of
Chester, about the year 1200, granted to the monastery of Stanlaw four oxgangs of land in Rochdale, together with his forests in Pendle
and Rossendale, and his pasture called Brandwood, describing it by metes and bounds which still existed, and most of which are still
known by their ancient names ; also with liberty for the monks to have 100 cows with their offspring of two years old ; and that if he
should have cattle there also, then their cattle should go far and wide, without stint and without molestation by his herdmen. Much
documentary evidence was given, and acts of ownership were proved by living witnesses. It was shown by Maden and the freeholders
that the abbey had sold the waste of Brandwood to the freeholders before the dissolution ; and therefore that the crown, never having pos-
session, never had the right of conveyance; consequently, the lord of the manor had no locus Standi. After a trial of three days’ con-
tinuance, the jury returned a verdict for the defendant. -
Anciently Spotland had no other division than its hamlets of Falinge, Heley, Whitworth, Wolstenholme,
Chadwick, and Spotland proper; but within the last century it has been found necessary to constitute this
large tract of country into three separate divisions, each governed by its own overseers and constables—namely,
Whitworth and Brandwood, comprising all the northern parts of the district ; Spotland Further-side, containing
all the hamlets on the west bank of the Spodden, from Hall Fold to Oakenrod ; and Spotland Nearer-side,
comprehending all that portion of the district between Whitworth and Rochdale, and from the east bank of
the Spodden to the boundary of Wardleworth with Wuerdle and Wardle. -
The increase of population has been very rapid in this part of the parish within the present century, as
will be seen from the census; but as early as the year 1610 the woollen manufacture had established itself
firmly in these valleys, and not fewer than five fulling-mills were turned by the “Spotton brook water, and
divers men were in trade.” Modern enclosures have divested Brandwood Common of much of its forest
character. The inexhaustible quarries of flags, stone, and slate, worked in this part of the parish, afford
abundant materials to the neighbourhood, and these materials are frequently conveyed by inland navigation
to distant parts of the country. Shortly after the Conquest, Whitworth was held by Robert de Whitworth,
and continued in the local family name until it was conveyed by two daughters and co-heiresses to Hugh de
Elland and to de Liversege. A moiety of the vill of Whitworth was given by John de Elland to the
abbey of Whalley in the 13th century, and the other moiety was given by Robert de Liversege to the abbey
of Salley in Yorkshire, which afterwards granted it to the prioress of Hampole, who, after having held it forty
years, conveyed it to Robert, son of Ralph de Whitworth, at a rent of 16s. a-year ; and he afterwards
having ceded his right, this moiety passed also, in the reign of Edward II., to the abbey of Whalley, where
it remained until the dissolution, when it was sold to Sir Thomas Holte of Grislehurst, who conveyed the
abbey lands to various purchasers.” For three generations the practitioners known as “the Whitworth
doctors” have exercised their skill in their native village, and right reverend prelates have been found in the
crowds which have pressed to this modern Bethesda. The practice of the Whitworth doctors has been compre-
hensive enough to embrace dogs, horses, and men; the setting of fractured limbs is now their forte, but
they are also famed for the cure of cancerous complaints, scrofula, and tumours of the joints, popularly
called white-swellings, which is principally effected by the agency of a powerful caustic application, bearing
the appropriate name of “keen.”
The chapel of Whitworth was originally founded in 1532” by the principal inhabitants of Spotland,
including the names of Edward Leech, Randal Howarth, Laurence Smith, John Whyteworth, Adam Holt,
Barton Hollows, James Scofield, Thomas Clegg, Elis Walsden, Thomas Fletcher, Nicholas Smith, James Hill,
Richard Chadwick, Richard Hill, and James Butterworth, who were greatly encouraged and assisted by
* Pfita cor’ Rege apud temp. Westm. Pasche, 19 Edw. II. Society in 4 vols. 4to. Vols. 10, 11, 16, and 20, of Society's
Pot. 27. - series.
* Gastrell's Wotitia, Cestriensis, vol. ii. part iii. pp. 477-8, * Gastrell's Notitia Cestriensis, note by the Rev. Canon Raines,
note. w ii. 154.
* This valuable chartulary, known as the Coucher Book of * For an account of the foundation see Gastrell's Wotitia Cestri-
Whalley Abbey, has, since this trial, been printed by the Chetham ensis, ii. 155.
512 . Çür #istory of 3Lancashire.
Robert Holt of Stubley, esq., who obtained for them fifty fall of land to build their chapel upon, and to form
a chapel-yard.' Dr. Whitaker observes that this was an era of chapel-building, and quotes, in proof of his
remark, the chapels of Todmorden, Whitworth, and Milnrow ; the first and the last had, however, been
ancient foundations. In the reign of William and Mary this chapel was rebuilt, as appeared from the arms of
that monarch, curiously sculptured on a part of the edifice; and in 1775 it was again rebuilt, but the burial-
ground was not consecrated till twenty years afterwards, by Bishop Cleaver. Owing to the increase of
population, and the inadequacy of church-accommodation, a large and handsome church was built in 1847-8,
and the old chapel taken down. By the “Rochdale Vicarage Act 1866" this chapelry, which was never
parochial, has been constituted a parish and the church a vicarage, although, being in private patronage,
it receives no additional endowment from the ample revenues of the mother church. A new parish is
formed under the same Act, and endowed with £200 per annum, at Facit, near Whitworth, where a large
population has recently sprung up. -
According to the Coucher Book of the abbey of Stanlaw, the manor or reputed manor of Whitworth was
granted by divers donors to that convent in the time of King John, and among the names of these donors is
found that of Sir John de Elland, co-parcener of the lordship of Rochdale, who gave one moiety of the manor
of Whitworth to that house.
In Spotland Nearer-side is Healey Hall, from the time of Henry VI, a seat of the Chadwicks, descendants
of Jordan, second son of John Chadwick of Chadwick, living in 1444–5, and whose descendant John de
Heley Chadwick, esquire, is the present owner of Healey, New Hall, Malvesyn Ridware, and Callow. In
1835 a church, dedicated to St. Clement, was erected at Spotland Bridge by the church commissioners, and
the endowment was increased to £500 per annum under the Rochdale Vicarage Act 1866, the district being
constituted a parish and vicarage by the same act. Here a parsonage-house and large national day and
Sunday schools have been built. -
In Spotland Farther-side is Greave, the ancient property of the Holts, and conveyed by marriage, in
1812, to Mr. Robert Leech, whose son now lives at Greave House. A custom of high antiquity, and of
primitive simplicity, prevails in this district. On the first Sunday in May the young people of the surrounding
country assemble at Knoll Hill annually for the purpose of presenting to each other their mutual greetings
and congratulations on the arrival of this cheering season, and of pledging each other in the pure beverage
which flows from the mountain-springs. Wolstenholme Hall, a demi-gabled stone-mansion, stands near
Meadow Head. The ancient family claimed to be of Saxon origin, and Andrew de Wolstenholme was living
here in 1180. The name is now extinct in this place, and the estates are divided. On Bagslate moor or
heath, the Rochdale races, established in 1826, were held yearly in June ; but they have long ceased.
In completing the perambulation of this extensive parish, we arrive at Chadwick Hall, the ancient
residence of that family. Nicholas de Chadwyke was residing here in the time of Edward III., and is the
first upon record of the family. He had John, who had Henry and Jordan, the latter of whom settled at
Healey Hall. Henry died in 1501, leaving Oliver, who was succeeded by Roger, followed by Robert, who
was succeeded by his cousin and next heir, John, in 1631. He had Jonathan Chadwick, who died in
1674, leaving his son John, whose sister and heiress, Sarah, died the 21st of August 1722, leaving the
estate by will to the descendants of her aunt Katherine, wife of Joseph Dearden, gent., by whom it was sold
to the Rev. Roger Kay, M.A., rector of Fittleton, and by him conveyed to trustees for the use of the grammar-
school of Bury, to which it is now attached. Still nearer to Rochdale, on the margin of the town, is the in-
teresting pile of Oakenrod Hall, long the residence of the Gartsides after abandoning Gartside Hall, and
now the property of Albert Hudson Royds, esq. of Mount Falinge, by whose grandfather it was purchased,
on the death of two ladies (Mrs. Carr and Miss Butterworth) of the ancient family formerly of Windybank
near Littleborough, from their kinsman, Edmund Lodge of Leeds, esq., in 1787. The neighbouring mansions,
cottages, and mills on the Roch, bear the name of Oakenrod.
SADDLEWORTH, though not a part of the county of Lancaster, has always been regarded, and is described
in the population-returns, published by order of parliament, as part of the parish of Rochdale. This fine
bold tract of country lies on the south-east border of the county of Lancaster, stretching into the West Riding
of Yorkshire, and is pierced by the tip of the great horn of Cheshire. It is seven miles in length, and five
miles in width at its broadest part. Several Druidical remains on the hills and in the groves of Saddleworth,
near to Greenfield, indicate that the Druids once worshipped here, with the firmament for the roof of their
temple, huge blocks of stone for their altars, and human victims for their sacrifices. The principal altars have
been lately broken down and used for mending the roads . The Romans next traversed this alpine tract, in
their line of communication from Mamucium to Cambodunum (Slack). Castleshaw, near Delph, is conjectured
by Whitaker, the historian of Manchester, to have been a Roman fortress or camp. The neighbouring ground
is called Castle Hills. There are also the remains of a Roman road, although the traces are less perceptible
than they were either in the time of Agricola or Whitaker. The Saxons followed, and gave name to
the Tame, the Diggle, and the Chew; and, according to tradition, Canute, the Danish monarch, on his
* Indenture, 24 Henry VIII. (1532) for the erection of Whitworth chapel.
#umbrel of Šalford—Rothbalt parish. 513
desolating career, harangued his invading army, on their march over these mountains, from the summit of
“Knot Hill.” At this time, and for many centuries afterwards, Saddleworth was forestland; and the
places which now form the busy haunts of men were then the abodes of the wolf and the wild boar. At the
period of the Conquest, the district was constituted a manorial possession, independent of Rochdale and was
never an integral part of that manor. - -
In the year 1200 William de Stapleton, of the family of Thorpe Stapleton, near Leeds, was lord of Saddleworth, and obtained
license to have divine offices celebrated by a chaplain in his chapel of St. Chad in Saddleworth, by consent of Geoffrey, the elder
dean of Whalley, and the vicar of St. Cedde in Racedham, with the permission of Roger de Lacy. By another charter the same
William swears upon the holy relics of the church of St. Chad of Rachdale to pay the tithes of the forest of Sadelword to the mother
church of St. Chad, and to compel his vassals to do the same. His son Robert grants to Sadleword Chapel 13 acres, with toft,
pasture for 10 cows, 8 oxen, and 60 sheep, saying his venison and his birds. By another charter he grants to God, the Virgin,
and St. James of Kirkleys, 8 acres in Sadelworthe with housbote and haybote, with the same reserve, which 21 acres is the present
glebe of the church. This deed is without date, but as Adam de Stafford, archdeacon of Chester, is an attesting witness, and held
his office between 1271 and 1279, its date is brought within a narrow compass." By the Rochdale Vicarage Act 1866 the ancient
parochial chapelry is made a distinct parish, and the benefice constituted a vicarage, with an increased endowment, the patronage to
be vested in the bishop of Manchester for the time being. In 1314 Waren de Scargill confirms a grant of land in Sãdelworth to
the abbot and convent of Rupe [Roch Abbey], as appears from the following early translation of his charter —
“To all, etc., Warinus de Scargill greetinge, know you me for the Salvation of my Soule, and of all my Ancestors and heires to have
granted and confirmed to God and the blessed Virgin Mary, and the Abbot and Convent of Rupe and their successors All the gifts and
grants wºn Sir Robert Sonn of Willá de Stapleton, my Great Grandfather whose heire I am, made to them (to witt) all that land and
tenement which are called Hyldebryechop [Hilde Bridge Hope or Hildebright Hope] by these divisions (to witt) by the way weh leadeth
from Stanheyes to Cnothill and passeth the water of Thame, and soe Vpward to the other Cnothill, and all that Cnothill even vnto
Wodwardhill (to witt) to East, West, and North soe far as my land reacheth wº all buildings woodes meadows feedings waters pastures
and all appºtenfices and other thinges under the earth and above the earth with the whole forest and all other libties to the said Forest
belonginge. I have also granted to the said Abbot and convent and their successOurs for me and my heires full power to inclose all the said
tenement and by the division aforesaid altogether as ditched and the ditches thereon downe to make vpp and renewe as often when and
as often as they please and to keepe the same inclosed w”out hinderance or reproach (challenge) of me or my heires or assignes. And
alsoe Cofiñon of Pasture from the greate way wº" leadeth from Stanheges [Stanedge] unto the Bridg ſover the] water of Tame towards the
North vnto the divisions aforesaid and from Cnothill vnto Woodwardhill as the water departs towards the Wood at Tame. To have and
to hold all the said tenements and pastures in free pure and ppetual Elemosinee Safe and quiet from all secular service claim and demaund
for ever, etc. Witnesses—Sir Edmund de Wastenayes Sir Thomas de Schefeld Sir John de Dancastre, Knts. John of the Chamber of
Staynton, William my Sonne and others. Dated at the Rupe on Sunday in the feast of the convercon of St. Paul (Jan. 25) in the yeare
of his grace one thousand three hundred and fourteen.”
In the preceding reign [20 Edward I. 1292] the abbot of Rupe, or Roch, had been summoned to answer to the king, on a
plea, by what authority he claimed to have free warren in all his demesne lands of Rupe, Arnesthorpe, and Hildebrighthope, without
license of the king and his progenitors; and the abbot came and said, that he claimed free warren in Roch, Arnethorp, and
Brenteclive, by royal charter, 35 Henry III. (1251), which he produced, and which testified that the king granted free warren for
ever to the abbot and convent, in all their demesne lands of la Roche, Arnethorp, and Brenteclive, in the county of York.”
On the dissolution of the larger religious houses, about 1542, the site of Roche Abbey was granted to
William Ramsden and Thomas Vavasor, but the Saddleworth possession was granted by deed, dated 5th
June, 35 Henry VIII. (1543) to Arthur Asheton of Rochdale, gentleman, for the sum of £361 : 7 : 4, paid to
the treasurer of his majesty's court of augmentation, to be held in the same full and ample manner and form
as it was held by the respective abbots. In the 7th Edward VI. (1553), this property was granted by Arthur
Asheton to Roger Gartside of Rochdale. The manor of Saddleworth-cum-Quick was at a subsequent period
sold by the Stapletons to the Ramsdens of Langley Hall, near Huddersfield, by whom it was resold to the
Farrers; and the trustees of James Farrer, esq. of Barmboro' Grange, conveyed the manor, in 1792, to thirty-
one lords, freeholders in the parish, for the sum of £6297 : 15s. in which purchase were included two small
estates, divided into 828 shares, which have been resold to the freeholders at large (amounting to from five to
six hundred) some of whom hold only one, and others as many as fifty shares. As early as the time of Queen
Elizabeth, Saddleworth was loosely described as a parish, and in several local acts it was designated by the
name of “the parish of Saddleworth-cum-Quick; ” but in the population-returns made to parliament, it is
included in the wapentake of Agbrigg, in the West Riding of the County of York, and is still popularly
described as part of Rochdale parish. This recently-constituted parish is divided into four parts, called
Meres—namely, Friar Mere, to the north-east ; Quick Mere, to the West ; Shaw Mere, to the south-west ; and
Lord's Mere to the south-east. The tithes of Saddleworth, like those of the parent parish, were enjoyed by
the see of Canterbury from the time of Archbishop Cranmer till the year 1814, when they were sold, under
the authority of an act of parliament, by the primate, the Right Rev. Charles Manners Sutton, D.D., to the free-
holders. The proprietors of the lands of Friar Mere, presuming upon the privilege of the Cistercians of Roch
Abbey to exonerate them from tithes of lands formerly in the holding of the abbey, did not purchase, nor do
they pay, though the claim of the archbishop, or the ecclesiastical commissioners in right of that prelate, upon
their estates is not abandoned. The old chapelry contains about 18,280 statute acres of land, of which,
probably, 12,500 acres are enclosed. Though a very mountainous district, there is a great deal of fine grazing
land in the valleys and on the declivities of the hills. To this land, trade has imparted a considerable value;
and it has been no uncommon thing for the proprietors of the soil, in favourable localities, to obtain a rent
of £6 per acre annually, though the average is not so much as one-third at the present time.
1 Gastrell's Notitia Cestriensis, vol. ii. 144, note. * Placit. de Quo Warranto apud Ebor. 21 Edw. I. Rot. 5 d.
3 U
514 [i]t #igtorg of 3Lancašijire.
BURY PARISH.
AºA }: Manchester. This parish consists of five townships—namely, Coupe and Lench, with Newhall
M/\º Hey and Hall Carr; Bury; Elton; Musbury; and Walmersley-cum-Shuttleworth; and the
º/\{ſº ſº three chapelries of Heap, Tottington Higher, and Tottington Lower.
| #}, s|
Area in Population in
* Statute Acres. jl.
Coupe and Lench, with Newhall Hey and Hall Carr. º g 1545 2,851
Bury e e tº & & & & & g “$ g 2370 30,397
Elton . . . . . . . . . . . 2521 8,172
Musbury g © * e * º e ‘tº g g II 70 997
Walmersley-cum-Shuttleworth . g & º º g $ 5056 5,037
Heap (Chapelry) . tº * , tº r^ º * & e 2934 17, 167
Tottington Higher (Chapelry) . g * } & * tº * 3686 3,726
Tottington Lower (Chapelry) . © & # 5038 11,764
The population of the parliamentary borough of Bury in 1861 was 37,563.
The river Irwell passes through the centre of the parish from north to south ; and the Roch, after
watering the valley of Heap, forms its confluence with the Irwell at the southern extremity of the parishes
of Bury and Radcliffe. The town stands on the left bank of the river Irwell, about two miles from the
confluence of the Roch with that river. The name is Saxon, signifying either a castle or a market-town, and
probably both were applicable to Bury at a very early period of English history. This was not the site of a
Roman station, but of a Saxon; and one of the twelve ancient baronial castles of Lancashire stood in Castle
Croft, close to the town, on the banks of the old course of the Irwell. The ancient structure, like the castle
of Rochdale, has now totally disappeared; but remains of the foundations are often dug up in the gardens,
and coins have been found on the site from the mints of the Edwards, Henry VIII., Elizabeth, and the
Stuarts. On the 25th August 1865, the workmen of the Improvement Commissioners of Bury, in the
construction of the sewer from the open space opposite the parish church, crossed a piece of waste ground
which shortly before had been cleared of buildings, named Castle Croft. In the course of their labours, the
workmen came upon the foundation-wall of the ancient castle of Bury, the sewer crossing the west wall
at what appeared to have been the keep. The interest excited by the discovery of these remains induced
the commissioners to extend the excavations in a line with the wall southward. The main foundation-wall
was not two feet thick, and was buttressed every few feet. Some of the stones bore the masons' marks,
chiefly a X. The masonry appeared to be not more ancient than early English. The outer foundation-walls
would, if entire, represent a quadrangle of about 110 by 113 feet. The inner walls were more than six feet
thick; in form a parallelogram, measuring externally about 82 by 76 feet, and internally 69 by 63 feet. Of
course, only parts of both the outer and the inner walls were found ; but the dimensions as given would be
those if the walls of both quadrangles were perfect. The building appears to have been a sort of peel or
keep, with a space of about 20 feet between its outer face and the inside of the outer boundary-wall." These
remains must not be confounded with Castle Steads, in the township of Walmersley, distant a mile and a
quarter from Bury parish church, from which these remains are distant not more than 70 or 80 yards. Not
far hence, at a place called Castle Hill, the court of the royal manor of Tottington was held, where the
power of imprisonment and the execution of criminals existed; and a neighbouring eminence is still called
Gallows' Hill. On the heath, near this place, Lord Strange is said to have mustered 20,000 men in favour
of the royal cause, in 1642.
Bury, at an early date, was one of the fees belonging to the royal manor of Tottington, which was held
by the Lacies, who enjoyed this possession soon after the Conquest, along with the lordship of Blackburnshire.
In 22 Henry II. (1176) Robert de Lacy made a grant of certain lands in this parish, to which Geoffrey, dean
of Whalley, is witness.”
+ On the site of the ancient castle a structure is rising (November 1867), to be called the Castle Barracks, for the use of the 8th
Lancashire Rifle Volunteers. It will include a castle or barrack, armoury, and drill-shed, and will cost about £3000. Parts of the
ancient foundations have been used in its erection.—H. -
* Townley MSS., in which the name of John is erroneously substituted for Robert de Lacy.




#umbren of Šalfort—13ttru parish. 515
In the reign of Henry III., according to the Testa de Nevill, Adam de Bury held a knight's fee in Bury of the fee of the earl
of Lincoln, who held it of the king's tenant-in-chief, Earl Ferrers, and Bury at that time was part of the countess of Lincoln's
dowry. This Adam was witness, with Robert de Latham, sheriff of Lancaster, and others, to the charter by which William Ferrers
earl of Derby, granted, in 35 Henry III. (1251), the manor of Hordeshall (Ordsal) to David de Hultone. From the same record it
appears that Adam de Montebegon, mesne lord of Tottington, under the Lacies, and lord of Hornby, gave four bovates of land in
Totington to Eward de Buri, as the marriage portion of his daughter Aliz, or Alicia, and that William de Penieston then held that
land with Cecilia, the daughter of Alicia.” In enumerating the fees of Roger de Montebegon, who died in the 9th John (1207-8)
it is said that Adam de Buri holds one knight's fee by ancient tenure. This was one of the eight fees which Roger held within the
same jurisdiction. Robert Gredle, baron of Manchester, gave to another of this family, Robert de Buri the elder, fourteen bovates
of land of his demesne of Mamecestre, to be held by the service of half-a-knight, and, says the Testa de Nevill, his heirs held that
land.” But the Bury family were not the Sole proprietors at this period ; for Henry de Emeleden was also found to hold two fees
in Totinton and in Bury of ancient tenure.” In 35 Henry III. (1251), Edmund de Lacy obtained a charter for free warren in his
manor of Tottington, and also in other manors;* and in 22 Edward I. (1294) Henry de Lacy had a similar grant.8
In 3 Edward II. (1309-10) an extent was taken of the manor of Tottington, in Salfordshire, with the
fees belonging to it, of which Henry de Lacy, earl of Lincoln, and his late countess, Margaret de Longespée,
were found seised. The fees belonging to the manor of Tottington were the manors of Bury, Midleton,
Chadreden, Alcrington, Schotelworth, Tottington, and Bradeshagh." The other fees in Lancashire were
appurtenant to the Castleton manor, as already shown in the history of Rochdale.
By the following ancient translation of the inquisition post mortem of Henry de Lacy, taken in 1311, it appears that Henery
de Bury held half of the manor of Bury by knight's service, owing suit to the court of Tottington —
(“Ex. cart. R. Rowsthorne de Atherton ar. 1660, a” 3 E. 2. 1311.)—7* SALFORDSHIRE, Tottington.—The Jurers there say that
Henry Lacy Erle of Lincolne holdeth all his landes and tenements in the County of Lancaster of Tho. Erle of Lane". the halfe by seruice
&c., there be there a certaine capitall messuge wºº is worth by yeare vi". there be there 160 acre of Land in demise of Diuerse tennts weh
pay att their will for the same by yº year 33s. 4d. the feast of St. Gyles (September 1) for euery acre 4d. And there be there 8 OXgangs
of Land of demise to diuers tenents wº pay at their will by the yeare for the same att the same terme 24s. (to witt) for euery OXgang 3.
And there be there a certaine Parke called Musberry whose herbage and Estronage [? Agistments] is worth by the year 13s. 4d. And
there is a certaine pasture wº" is worth by the yeare 10s. And there is a certaine water Corne Mill wºn is worth by ye yeare, and all
reprises sett a part 20s. And there be there a certaine Court wº" is worth by the yeare 20s. The house of Henery Bury holden of the
Erle of Lincolne, the one of , of the Manno" of Bury wº" part by K* service the one halfe of a Kº fee, and maketh suite to the Cort of
Tottington. Roger of Middleton holdeth of the same Earle the manno" of Middleton by service the one halfe of a kº fee, and maketh suite
to the Cort aforesaid. Henery of Trafford holdeth of the same Erle the manno" of Alkrington by service the 4th part of a kts fee, and
makes suite to the Coº aforesaid, Henery of Bury holdeth the One halfe of the mannot of Shuttleworth part by service 12d. per ann. at
the feasts of Easter and Michaell. Richard Radcliffe holdeth one and twenty acres of land in Tottington by service att the same termes.
Rott of Bradshaw houldeth of the same Earle free pasture in the same vill. by homage and service 12d. per ann. att the same termes.
Roger of Chaderton holdeth 12 acres of Land in the same vill. by Service, and one pound of Sinamond 1d. off. at the feast of St. Michael].
Sume is 6. 03: 03 : ob.”—Harl. MSS. cod. 2085. fol. 443.
In 16 Edward II. (1822-3) Roger de Middleton and Agnes his wife were found to possess common of pasture in Bury and
Middleton.” In 18 Edward II. (1324-5) an inquisition ad quod damnum was taken of land held by Roger Chadreton in Tottington.9
In the following year Adam de Bury gave lands in Spotland and Wolstonholm, in the parish of Rochdale, to Thomas de Strangwas,
with remainder to himself in default of issue. On the death of Henry de Lacy, the manor of Bury passed to Thomas, earl of
Lancaster, in right of his wife Alicia, the heiress of the earl of Lincoln. At what period it passed from the local family is not
clearly ascertained; but after the death of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, and on the erection of the duchy of Lancaster in 1351, Roger
Pilkington is enumerated among the duchy tenants, as holding one knight's fee in Bury, which Adam de Bury formerly held of the
Honor of Lancaster." In an inquisition post mortem, taken 36 Edward III. (1362), Bure, in Salfordshire, is found along with
Totinton amongst the vast possessions of Henry, the first duke of Lancaster. A few years before the probable date of the MS.
Feodarium, the abbot of Lettele gave to Roger de Petresfield thirty acres and other lands in Terstewode and Totynton, together
with the fisheries in the waters of these townships. The Bury family do not seem to have entirely ceased their connection with the
parish for many reigns afterwards; for by an inquisition post mortem in the Duchy Records (vol. viii. num. 24, in 31 Henry VIII.
yearly 10s. A water-mill, worth yearly, beyond reprises, 20s.
1 Testa de Wevill, fol. 405.
There is a free court, worth yearly by estimation 20s. Under the
head, “Manor of Bury,” it states that Sir Henry de Bury held of
* Ibid. fol. 404, 408.
3 Ibid. fol. 411.
4 Rot. Chart. 35 Hen. III. Pars Unic. mem. 8.
6 Rot. Chart. 22 Edw. I. Pars Unic. Imem. 23.
6 Escaet de anno 3 Edw. II. num. 51.
7 From an official translation of what is called “The Great Lacy
Inquisition of 1311” (penes Dixon Robinson, esq. of Clitheroe
Castle), it appears that the inquisition was taken, not in the 3d but
the 4th Edward II., on the 16th February 1311. After stating
that “Henry de Lacy, earl of Lincoln, held all his lands and tene-
ments in Lancashire immediately of the king, by the Service of 14%
knights’ fees, and by the rent of 105s. 8d., payable yearly, as castle-
ward of Lancaster, and sac-fee and suit to the sheriff's court of
Tourn every six weeks,” it adds, that Edward I. had granted all
the lands and tenements named in this inquisition, to the said Henry
earl of Lincoln, and heirs; with remainder to Thomas, Son of
Edmund [Crouchback], the king's brother, and to Alice his wife,
and their heirs, and to the right heirs of Thomas. In reference to
the earlier parts of the document, given in the text, it has —“100
acres of land demised to divers tenants-at-will, who pay yearly, at
the feast of St. Giles (September 1), 33s. 4d. There are eight OX-
gangs of land demised to divers tenants-at-will, who pay yearly
24s. There is a park called Musbirry, the herbage and agistments
thereof are worth yearly 13s. 4d. There is a several pasture, Worth
the earl of Lancaster the manor of Bury, by the service of one
Knight's fee and suit to the three weeks' court at Tottington. He
is also stated to have held half the manor of Shotlesworth [Shuttle-
worth] by the service of 12d. per annum. Roger de Midleton
held of the said earl the manor of Midleton, by the service of one
knight's fee, and suit to the three weeks' court at Tottington.
Henry de Strafford held of the said earl the manor of Chadreden,
by the service of one knight's fee and suit to the said court.
Adam de Prestwich held of the earl the manor of Alkrington, by
the Service of one-fourth of a knight's fee, and suit to the said
court.” Under “Tottington” this inquisition has the following:—
“ Richard de Radcliffe held of the earl 20 acres of land in Tot-
tington, by the service of 3s., payable at the terms of Easter and
Michaelmas. Robert de Bradeschagh held of the said earl, freely,
a pasture in the said vill, by homage and the service of 12d. a-
year. Roger de Chadreton held 12 acres in the said will by
homage and a pound of Cummin-seed yearly, of the value of three
halfpence.” In this translation the sum is £6 : 6 : 3 ; and several
minor variations from the document in the text will be observed.—H.
* Escaet de anno 16 Edw. II. num. 49.
° Inq. ad quod damn. 18 Edw. II. num. 41.
19 Birch’s MS. Tement. Duci Lancastr'.
516
Çije Đigturn of £amcagüirº.
1539) Ralph Bury was found possessed of lands in Bury, Myddleton, and Totyngton ; and in the Harleian MSS. (cod. 4204, fo. 102 b.)
is preserved a monumental inscription on Thomas, son of John Bury, of Bury Hall, Co. Lanc. and Eliz. his wife, daughter of
Thomas Stafford, of Bradfield, in Berks, esq., dated 1613. The last mention in the Duchy Records (vol. xxiv. num. 67) of this
family is Richard Bury, a proprietor of lands in Middleton in 19 James I. (1621). The arms of Bury were –Sa. a cheveron between
three plates, each charged with a cross-patteå Gu. In 24 Edward III. (1351) Roger de Pilkington held one knight's fee in Bury,
formerly held by Sir Adam de Bury, and which appears to have passed in marriage from the Burys to the Pilkingtons. In the
reign of Edward IV. a licence was granted by that monarch to Sir Thomas Pilkington, a devoted adherent to the house of York, to
kernel and embattle his manor-house at Stand in Pilkington; and this continued the family residence till, on the attainder of Sir
Thomas Pilkington, in 1 Henry VII. (1485), the manor of Bury and the other estates of the Pilkington family being forfeited, were
granted by the crown, under the great seal, to Thomas, first earl of Derby;" and in the 13 Henry VIII. (1521) this manor is found
among the possessions of the Stanleys, earls of Derby, in which family it still remains.” In the same reign Leland, the itinerant,
thus speaks of this place —“Byri on Irwell, 4, or v. miles from Manchestre, but a poore market. There is a Ruine of a Castel by
the paroch chirch yn the Towne.” It longgid with the Towne sumtime to the Pilkentons, now to the Erles of Darby. Pilkenton
had a place hard by Pilkenton parke, 3. mile from Manchestre.” Camden, in the reign of Elizabeth, describes it as a market-town
not less considerable than Rochdale ; but Blome, who wrote in the time of Charles II., says, “Bury is a market-town of no great
account on the Thursdays.”
Till the middle of the following century it does not appear that any material change took place, though
the Woollen business had been carried on for ages, and the cotton trade had begun to afford employment to
a number of the inhabitants. The south part of the township is called Redvales, from the colour of the soil;
here is an ancient mansion of the family of the Starkies, of whom was Joseph Starkie, esq., high sheriff of the
county palatine of Lancaster in 1799. The neighbouring hall, at Lower Redvales, is a gabled mansion of the
date of 1628, with the arms of Allen in the window.
There was a church in Bury at the Domesday Survey, and Roger de Poictou for a short time was the
patron ; but the patronage was afterwards wested in the Lacies. In the Valor of Pope Nicholas, in 1291, the
church was estimated at £13: 6:8, in the Liber Regis £29 : 11 : 5%. In 1386 John de Pylkington was
rector of Bury, and before that time his family had obtained the advowson from the Lacies. From the
Pilkingtons it passed with the manor to the Derby family, the present patrons. The church is dedicated to
St. Mary. The registers begin in 1590. Value in 1834, £1937. The living was improved and the town
benefited by an act of parliament obtained by the Hon. and Rev. John Stanley in 1864, empowering the
rector for the time being to grant building leases of the glebe for ninety-nine years. In 1775 the nave of
the church was rebuilt in a debased style, and in 1843 the fine old tower and spire were razed and rebuilt."
The new building is spacious and handsome. The interior of the church is well finished, and free from gloom ;
and the nave is divided from the side aisles by plain columns. Though the churchyard is literally paved with
gravestones, there are only two monuments of any peculiar interest : the one, in memory of a member of the
family of the Bamfords of Bamford Hall; and the other in memory of Lieutenants George and Robert Hood,
Sons of one of the officiating ministers in this church. One-half the town is glebe belonging to the rectory,
and the other half is leasehold under the earl of Derby. In 1591 the number of baptisms was 60, marriages
20, burials 59 ; while in 1832 the number of baptisms was 575, marriages 300, burials 338. In the time of
the Commonwealth (1655), it appears from these registers that the banns of marriage were published at the
market-cross by Edmund Hopwood and Lawrence Rostron, and others, magistrates of the district ; and that
the marriages were solemnised under magisterial authority.
* Act of conviction and attainder, 1 Henry VII. An inquisition
ton, Holmes, Hamelton, Little Hull, Dilworth, Plumpton, Brough-
post mortem on Ferdinando, earl of Derby, held at Preston, 22d
April, 37 Elizabeth (1595), recites that Henry VII., by letters
patent, dated 27th October, first of his reign (1485), created his
beloved kinsman, Thomas Lord Stanley, spouse to his [the king's]
most beloved mother, earl of Derby, in tail-male, with a fee of £20
per annum, which the earl afterwards surrendered on condition of
£40 per annum granted to him in tail-male out of the manor of
[West] Derby, on 25th February, 4 Henry VII. (1489). Amongst
the premises which came to the crown by the attainder of Francis
Viscount Lovell, Sir Thomas Pilkington, knight, and Robert Hilton,
were the manor of Derby, as of the Duchy of Lancaster ; and the
following, held in right of the crown –The manors of Holland,
Nether Kellet, Hallywood, Sumlesbury, Pilkington, Bury, Cheetham,
Cheetwood, Hally wall, Broughton-in-Furness, Bolton-in-Furness;
and a moiety of the manors of Balderstone, Little Singleton, Bro-
therton, and Thornton ; also many messuages, lands, and rents, in
Holland, Orrell, Dalton, Nether Kellet, Hallywood, Samlesbury,
Cuerdley, Walton, Lancaster, Wigan, Haughton, Skelmersdale,
Sutton, Pilkington, Bury, Cheetham, Cheetwood, Tottington,
Undesworth, Salford, Shuttleworth, Shippalbothan, Middleton,
Oversfield, Hally well, Smithells, Broughton-in-Furness, Bolton-in-
Furness, Selbythwaite, Elleslate, Urswick, Ulverston, Merton,
Britly, Cartmell, Balderston, Little Singleton, Brotherton, Thorn-
ton [? in Amounderness], Elleswick, Sowerby, GOOSnargh, Claughton,
Much Singleton, Preston, Ribbleton, Stalmine, Lancaster, Mearley,
Freckleton, Croston, shoughton, Whittingham, Billesborough, and
Farington. [Of these, exclusive of the manors and the premises
therein, all the premises in the nine townships in italics are ex-
pressly declared to have been forfeited by the attainder of Sir Thomas
Pilkington, knight ; and the twenty-five or twenty-six places follow-
ing these, to have been forfeited by the attainder of [Sir] James
Harrington. The manors granted to the earl of Derby, and for-
merly belonging to Sir Thomas Pilkington, seem to have been those
of Pilkington, Bury, Cheetham, Cheetwood, Halliwell, Broughton-
in-Furness, and Bolton-in-Furness ; so that seven manors, and
thousands of acres of land, in fourteen townships, came to the
Stanleys from the Pilkingtons.]—H.
* Duchy Records, vol. v. inq. post mortem, 13 Hen. VIII. n. 68.
* The brow at the back of the church is nearly perpendicular,
and the river Irwell, before its course was diverted, flowed at its
foot. The castle-ditch is no longer to be traced ; but, according to
tradition, this fosse extended to the morass at the south side of the
town. Remains of the castle-wall are to be seen in the tank of the
gasometer near the church ; and many years ago a fragment of this
wall, about six feet thick, was found in excavating.—B.
* Notitia Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 27.
#umbret of Šalford–Burg parish.
517
RECTORs of BURy from A.D. 1507 to 1867, with the dates of presentation and the names of patrons—extracted
RECTORY OF BURY.
Ecclesiastical Registers in the Bishop's Court, Chester.
principally from the
Date of Institution, Rectors. On whose Presentation. Cause of Vacancy.
- | John Nabbes.
Oct. 21, 1507. Richard Smyth Heº. iºn and John Yreland, Death of John Nabbes.
nights -
Feb. 4, 1557. Richard Johnes Hugh Jones, for this turn only, by per- || Death of the last incumbent.
- mission of the Earl of Derby
Aug. 18, 1568. Walter Keny Earl of Derby . º g e Death of Richard Johnes.
1599. | Thomas Dearden Earl of Derby.
Peter Shawe s Earl of Derby.
July 6, 1608. Hugh Wattmoughel John º Vicar of Halifax, for this Death of Peter Shawe.
turn only
Aug. 23, 1623. George Murray Earl of Derby Death of Hugh Wattmoughe.
March 16, 1633. Peter Travis e wº e Earl of Derby Death of George Murray.
April 24, 1645. William Alt and Andrew Latham | Parliament : * e e & Sequestration of Peter Travis.
Aug. 28, 1648. Tobias Furness e Committee of Plundered Ministers Death of Andrew Latham.
1660. John Lightfoote . Earl of Derby.
Feb. 26, 1660. John Greenhalgh Countess of Derby Resignation of John Lightfoote.
Feb. 26, 1674. | Thomas Gipps Earl of Derby g º g Death of John Greenhalgh.
March 5, 1712. James Bancks Thomas Bancks, by virtue of a dona- Death of Thomas Gipps.
tion from William, Earl of Derby,
dated June 12, 1676 º
July 19, 1743. John Stanley º de e Earl of Derby . sº Death of James Bancks.
Feb. 6, 1778. Sir William Henry Clarke, Bart. Edward, Earl of Derby Resignation of John Stanley.
Sept. 23, 1818. Geoffrey Hornby . e g Earl of Derby Death of Sir William Henry Clarke.
1850. E. J. G. Hornby . Earl of Derby Death of Geoffrey Hornby.
There are thirteen Episcopal chapels in this parish, many of them filial dependencies, and others vested
in trustees:—St. John's, at Bury, opened in 1770, which is adorned by a beautiful screen representing the
Ascension, painted by Murray, a native artist—present incumbent, Rev. E. J. Smith (1858); St. Luke's, at
Heywood, erected in 1611, and twice enlarged, the last time in 1805–Rev. T. Ramsbotham (1865), present
incumbent ; Edenfield Chapel, the date on the tower L H (1614), rebuilt 1778–present incumbent, Rev. M.
Wilson (1842); St. Paul's, consecrated 1842, now a parliamentary district and perpetual curacy, of which
Rev. J. Chell (1862) is the present incumbent; the chapel of Holcombe, bearing the dates of 1714 and
1774, rebuilt 1853—present incumbent, Rev. G. Nightingale (1849); and St. Ann's, at Tottington built by
subscription in the year 1799–present incumbent, Rev. S. G. F. Perry (1849).
This parish also contains many Dissenting chapels, fourteen of which are in Bury, nine in Heywood,”
and eight in the other out-townships. Those of the earliest date are the Presbyterian Chapel in Bass Lane,
Walmersley, built in 1664, and rebuilt in 1797, now a farm-house; and Dundee Chapel, built about 1690, at
present occupied as a Sunday school by the Scotch Presbyterian church. Silver Street Chapel, erected in 1719,
for the use of the Presbyterians, had, during a period of 105 years, only three ministers. In Bury, as in a
considerable number of the other towns of Lancashire, the rise of the Dissenting interest is to be traced to the
ejection of the nonconformist ministers from the church in the time of Charles II. The Rev. Henry Pendle-
bury, M.A., being ejected from Holcombe Chapel in this parish in 1662, the Meeting-house was afterwards built
for him in Bass Lane, Bury. After his death, in 1695, the Presbyterian place of worship, called Dundee Chapel,
on the opposite side of the brook to the Episcopal chapel whence Mr. Pendlebury was ejected, was built for
his successor, Mr. E. Rothwell, and in 1719 that part of the congregation who resided in Bury erected the
chapel in Silver Street or Bank Street. Mr. Braddock was the first minister of this chapel; on his death, in
1764, he was succeeded by Mr. John Hughes, who, after occupying the pulpit about thirty-five years, was
succeeded by Mr. Allard at the beginning of the present century. The old chapel of 1719 was replaced
by a more modern building in 1837. The present chapel, a handsome edifice in Bank Street, near the
railway station, was opened in 1852. The exterior is very beautiful, having the advantage of not being
hemmed in by buildings on any side. It is in the late Pointed or Perpendicular style, and consists of a nave,
chancel, and two transepts. Extreme length 81 feet, width 68 feet. In the front are turrets and bell-tower.
(Baptist), Knowsley Street; Swedenborgian, Walmersley Road;
Christian Church (Rev. Franklin Howorth), Rochdale Road ; St.
Marie's (Roman Catholic), Manchester Road; St. Joseph’s (Roman
Catholic), Moorside. The Latter-Day Saints and the Christian
Brethren have also meeting-rooms for worship.
1 In the Parish Register, under the year 1609, the name of
James Blackbourne occurs ; but this entry appears inconsistent
with the succession, as shown by the instruments of institution.
2 The Presbyterian or Unitarian Chapel, Bank Street ; Wesleyan
Chapel, Union Street; Methodist New Connection, Bolton Street;
United Methodist Free Church (Brunswick Chapel), North Street;
Primitive Methodist, Walmersley Road; Independent Chapel, New
Road; Congregational Chapel, Castlecroft ; Bethel Chapel, Henry
Street; Providence Chapel (Baptist), Kay Street; Ebenezer Chapel
8 Wesleyan Methodist, Methodist New Connection, Primitive
Methodist, United Methodist Free Church, Independent, Baptist,
Particular Baptist, Swedenborgian, and Roman Catholic.
518 (The #istorm of 3Lancagüirº.
There is a handsome painted window at the South end. Architects, Messrs. Bowman and Crowther of
Manchester. The chapel seats above 700 persons, and cost £6000. The schools at the back of the chapel
were built in 1866, and are of two storeys, the extreme length being 84 feet, and the width 60 feet. They
include two large School-rooms, four class-rooms, library, etc. There is a very ornamental tower over the
entrance, and the exterior is in excellent keeping with that of the chapel. Architects, Messrs. Blackwell,
Son, and Booth ; cost £3800. Both chapel and schools were paid for by the voluntary contributions of the
members of the congregation. Connected with the chapel is a small cemetery, with neat little mortuary
chapel, outside the town.
The public charities in the parish of Bury are neither so numerous nor so important as in many of the other parishes of
Lancashire. Amongst these parochial charities the Free School stands pre-eminent. It was established in May 1726, when the
Rev. Roger Kay, rector of Tittleton, Co. Wilts, gave towards it about 95 acres of land, with houses, and a rent-charge of £25
per annum upon the estate of Ewood Hall, in the township of Haslingden and parish of Whalley. He also left the residue of his
real estate for the endowment, consisting of the freeholdestate of Chadwick or Chadwick Hall, in the parish of Rochdale. By the
original statutes of the School it is directed that the sum of £50 shall be paid annually to the head-master for his services, and £20
annually to the usher; but in consequence of the increased value of the property, the head-master now receives £200 a-year, with
an excellent house rent-free, and the usher £100. It is further directed that the sum of £20 shall be paid yearly out of the rents
of the school-lands, for two exhibitions, towards the maintenance of two scholars in either St. John's College, Cambridge, or Braze-
nose College, Oxford; the scholars to be such as are born within the parish of Bury, or the founder's own relations, born out of the
parish, but educated or brought up at the school at Bury. These exhibitions are now advanced to £25 each, but they are seldom
both claimed. The whole income of the foundation, at the time when the parliamentary commissioners made their report in 1824,
was £442," and the disbursements amounted to £383. A portion of the land is let on building leases. Dr. James Wood, a former
exhibitioner, left by will #500 for augmenting the exhibitions. The present annual value of the school-property is £840 gross,
£698 net. The objects of the trust are—For a free grammar-school for the town and parish of Bury for ever; for providing
two exhibitions of £20 per annum each, tenable for seven years, at St. John's College, Cambridge, or Brazenose College, Oxford,
open to the founder's relations, and to boys living in the parish, with preference to poor boys; for teaching ten poor girls; and
for apprenticing poor boys and girls. The subjects of instruction prescribed are—the Latin, Greek, and Hebrew tongues, writing
and arithmetic, and all such good authors as are usually taught in schools for the better education of youth. The trustees (1867)
are the dean of Manchester, the rectors of Bury and Prestwich, and four other clergymen and six laymen, residing within ten miles,
having estates of £50 a-year, being members of the Church of England. They have to make rules from time to time, to audit the
accounts annually, to appoint and dismiss masters and boys, appoint examiners, and hold annual visitations. If the trustees
neglect to appoint a master, then the bishop of Manchester to appoint. The head-master must be a graduate of Oxford or Cam-
bridge, an Orthodox member of the Church of England, and well skilled in the Latin, Greek, and Hebrew tongues. There are
(October 1867) 115 day-scholars, chiefly under fourteen years of age, and within a radius of four miles. In the upper school the
annual payment for instruction is eight guineas, in the lower school four. The present head-master is the Rev. C. F. Hildyard,
B.A. Oxford. In 1748 the Hon. and Rev. John Stanley, rector of this parish, and other inhabitants, founded a school here for
the education of eighty boys and thirty girls, which has since been converted into a national school, and a spacious building, erected
by subscription, as a school-house, at a cost of £1000, the land on which if stands being given by the earl of Derby. This building
is also used as a church Sunday school. The other charities in this parish are Tottington School, built in 1715, and endowed with
£12 per annum, together with the interest of £200. In 1737 James. Lancashire bequeathed £50 to each of the schools of Unsworth
Chapel, Heywood Chapel, and Walmersley. In 1749 James Starkey bequeathed £30 for the use of Heywood School. Edenfield
School is entitled to an annual income of from £3 to £4. Baldingstone School, in Walmersley, is supported by the rent of a tene-
ment called Bentley, augmented by the sum of £50. In 1778 Ann Bamford bequeathed £30 a-year, with certain premises, for a
free-school in Heywood, and also £1000 for the use of such school, to be laid out in land ; but, dying within twelve months from
the date of her will, the statute of mortmain took effect, and the bequest became void. According to a verdict returned 16th July
1529, Ann Kay of Bury made a bequest to the poor of that parish, but no mention of it appears in the commissioners' report. In
1666 Robert Shepherd granted a rent-charge of £9, subject to a deduction of £1 : 10s. to poor housekeepers of the township of Bury,
and towards the expense of apprenticing their children; and in 1810 William Yates bequeathed the interest of £400 to deserving
persons of the same township. The parish tablets record several other bequests of Small amount.
The land in this parish is generally a stiff loam, varying in fertility, but a very small portion of it is
under the plough. Notwithstanding the depreciation in the value of landed property within the last twenty
years in districts purely agricultural, the land here has maintained its value, and lets freely at a rental of
from £2 to £7 per acre, depending more upon its locality than upon its fertility. In the manor of Tottington,
and the township of Walmersley, in the centre of this parish, there were, a few years ago, upwards of 1000
acres of unreclaimed bog, varying from two to four yards in thickness, which served as turbary for the
surrounding inhabitants. Now much of this bog has been reclaimed, and converted into fair arable and other
lands. Trees, as black as ebony, were frequently found embedded in the moss soil; and about forty years
ago, an oak of extraordinary size was dug up at Redvales, where it had doubtless lain for hundreds, probably
for thousands of years, accumulating firmness of texture, and without exhibiting any symptoms of decay.
This district abounds with stone of excellent quality, and the flags and slate of Horncliffe are in much repute.
Some of the best building-stone in the north of England, a millstone-grit, is quarried at Fletcher Bank in
this parish. The manufacturers, as well as the inhabitants generally, are supplied abundantly with fuel from
nine coal-mines (some of the lowest coal-measures are got in the north of the parish) within the limits of
their own parish.
Although no doubt can exist that a number of the emigrant Flemings established themselves in the
parish of Bury, and fabricated their webs from the fleeces grown in the Forest of Tottington, yet the first
distinct notice we have of the manufacture of Bury is in the reign of Henry VIII., when Leland says, in his
abrupt way, “yerne Sumtime made abowte Beri, a Market Towne on Irwel.” The woollen manufacture is
* See Report XIX. of Commissioners for Inquiry respecting Charities, pp. 216-226.
Bumrºn of Šalfort—35urg #arish.
519
still carried on here to a certain extent, though cotton has decidedly the preponderance. In the reign of
Queen Elizabeth, an aulneger was appointed at Bury by act of parliament, to stamp woollen-cloth, for the
purpose of preventing it from being unduly stretched on the tenters. Situated as this place is, upon the
banks of one river, the Irwell, and skirted as it is by another, the Roch, and supplied moreover abundantly
with coal, its advantages as a manufacturing station can scarcely be excelled. Some very important improve-
ments for facilitating the different branches of the trade, and abridging the labour of the operatives, have
been made. As early as 1738 John Kay, a native of Bury, but at that time residing at Colchester, invented
a new mode of throwing the shuttle, by means of the picking-peg, instead of the hand, hence called the fly-
shuttle ; and in 1760 Robert Kay of Bury, a son of John's, invented the drop-box, by which the weaver can
at pleasure use any one of three shuttles, and thereby produce a fabric of various colours with almost the
same facility as he can weave a common calico. The invention of setting cards by machinery also belongs
to this place, and to the ingenious family of the Kays. In the process of spinning it was formerly the
practice to stop the machine while the broken threads were united ; but in the year 1791 Mr. Henry White-
head, the postmaster of Bury, obviated the necessity for this perpetually-recurring interruption, by suggesting
the method, which from that time was adopted, of piecing the end while the machine continued in motion.
A circumstance which, above all others, contributed to bring Bury into note as the seat of any particular
branch of the cotton manufacture, was the establishment of the printworks by an opulent and enterprising
firm, at the head of which stood Mr. Robert Peel." The perfection to which this company brought the art
of calico-printing enriched themselves, and extended the wealth and importance of the town of Bury; and
this establishment, on the banks of the Irwell, with its workshops, warehouses, and dwellings, forms a good-
sized colony. At a little distance from the printworks, on the banks of the neighbouring river, the same
company had large manufacturing concerns; and though several changes have been made from time to time
in the proprietorship of these establishments, the inhabitants of Bury and its surrounding villages have
continued to derive from them employment and profit to the present hour. The inland navigation of Lanca-
shire, one great source of its manufacturing and commercial prosperity, has had its due influence here ; and
the canal which connects Bury with Manchester and Bolton has long served to swell the tide of prosperity
which had before set in strongly in this direction. The manufactures of Bury, which consist of cotton and
woollen spinning, and weaving by hand and by power, with calico-printing, bleaching, machine-making, etc.,
are every year increasing in magnitude. Besides the cotton-mills in which steam is the motive power, there
are many mills moved by water-power in the parish of Bury at the present time, and when the additional
reservoirs on the banks of the Irwell, for the more equal and constant supply of water, are completed, the
benefits derived from its numerous mountain streams will be still more widely extended.
The natural consequence of the increase of trade is the increase of men; hence Bury, which in the year
1793 contained only 2900 inhabitants, in 1831 numbered a population of 15,086 souls; and this augmenta-
tion is regularly progressive, not merely in the town, but throughout the whole parish, as will be seen from
the parliamentary returns for seven decennial periods.” This parish is healthy, though its climate is humid.
In common with all the places in the neighbourhood of those lofty mountains which separate Yorkshire from
Lancashire, more rain falls here than the average quantity of the kingdom ; and taken for a number of years,
the depth is found to be at least 40 inches in the year. In the hilly regions of Tottington, the inhabitants
frequently attain the age of eighty or ninety, and sometimes arrive at the patriarchal age of one hundred
years. Within the last few years, the spirit of improvement in this place has been strongly displayed; old
dilapidated buildings have given way to handsome new erections; the streets have become spacious; and on
every hand indications of growing prosperity, public spirit, and private enterprise, are seen ; but there is
still much room for improvement, particularly in the surrounding public roads, and the pavement and drainage
of the town.
The Bury Poor-law Union includes twelve townships—viz. Ainsworth, Ashworth, Birtle-cum-Bamford,
Bury, Elton, Heap, Hopwood, Pilkington, Pilsworth, Radcliffe, Tottington-Lower-End, and Walmersly-cum-
Shuttleworth. Total area, 32,990 statute acres; population in 1861, 101,135.
1 Mr. Peel, who was created a baronet Nov. 20, 1800, resided
other. The cotton trade was preferred, as best calculated to secure
for many years at Chamber Hall, in the immediate neighbourhood
of the town of Bury, and here his eldest son, the second Sir Robert
Peel, was born. Of Sir Robert Peel the father, his son, the states-
man, has given the following short but comprehensive and charac-
teristic biography, in reply to inquiries proposed to him by Mr.
Corry:—“It is not in my power to furnish you with any particu-
lars of much interest. He moved in a confined sphere, and em-
ployed his talents in improving the cotton trade. He had neither
wish nor opportunity of making himself acquainted with his native
country, or society far removed from his native county of Lancaster.
I lived under his roof till I attained the age of manhood, and had
many opportunities of discovering that he possessed, in an eminent
degree, a mechanical genius and a good heart. He had many Sons,
and placed them all in situations, that they might be useful to each
this object; and by habits of industry, and imparting to his offspring
an intimate knowledge of the various branches of the cotton manufac-
ture, he lived to see his children connected together in business, and,
by their successful exertions to become, without one exception, opulent
and happy. My father may be truly said to have been the founder
of Our family ; and he so accurately appreciated the importance of
commercial wealth in a national point of view, that he was often
heard to say, that the gains to the individual were small compared
with the national gains arising from trade. The only record of my
father is to be found in the memory of his surviving friends. He
was born at the family estate called Peel-Cross, near Blackburn,
Lancashire ; and died at Drayton Park, Staffordshire, on the 3d
May 1830, in the 74th year of his age.”
* See Appendix I. -
520 Qſìje 3%istorg of 3Lancagüirº.
The earl of Derby is lord of the manor of Bury, and owner of nearly all the freehold land in the borough,
with the exception of the glebe and a little freehold land held by different owners. The court-leet and view
of frank-pledge for the manor of Bury, with the court-baron of the earl of Derby, is held twice a-year, at
Easter and at Michaelmas, at such place as the steward of the manor may from time to time appoint.
Before the year 1846 Bury may be said to have been almost wholly without local government, save that
shadow of it which was derived from the court-leet of the lord of the manor. Three constables were chosen
annually at the court-leet, under whose authority a deputy-constable was the head of the police. But in that
year the inhabitants obtained a local act of parliament, entitled “The Bury Improvement Act 1846,” which
created a body of twenty-seven commissioners, elected by the ratepayers, one-third of their number retiring and
nine being elected every year—with ample powers for all the purposes of local government.
In 1857 the commissioners, on behalf of the town, purchased the gasworks from a private company, for
the sum of £52,249, and they have since very considerably extended the works, at a cost of about £15,000
more. In the year ending June 1866, the quantity of gas manufactured and sold was 85,000,000 cubic feet.
There were in use, in October 1867, 135 gas-retorts; and the gas-holders are of sufficient capacity to hold
700,000 cubic feet of gas. The number of private consumers and customers is 7000, and the annual con-
sumption exceeds 100,000,000 cubic feet. The price to consumers is 4s. 2d. per 1000 cubic feet, subject to
a discount, under the act, of 74 per cent (being the share of profits returned to the consumers), and to a
further discount on prompt or speedy payment. The price charged for gas, previous to the works becoming
the property of the town, ranged from 3s. 10d. to 4s. 6d. per 1000 cubic feet; now (1867), the net price
ranges from 2s. 11d. to 3s. 5d. The net profits since 1857 have been about £20,000; and in accordance
with the act these profits are applicable to public improvements and in diminution of the rates.
The commissioners have power to levy a general rate and a sewer rate, the amount of both being limited
by the act, unless with the consent of the parishioners. In practice the commissioners levy two ninepenny
general rates in the year, and two sixpenny sewer rates, or, in all, 2s. 6d. yearly. Since 1864, the com-
missioners have also been constituted the Burial-board for the district, under the burial Acts, and have power
to levy burial-rates. Up to October 1867, they had only levied one burial-rate of twopence. Under the provi-
sions of the Public Works Loan Act, the commissioners have borrowed altogether, for paving purposes,
f23,000; for sewering, £10,000; and for the purposes of the burial-board, £15,000. As the burial-board,
they purchased of the earl of Derby a piece of land, on the Manchester road, having an area of thirty-three
acres, at a cost, for land alone, of £8500. They have expended altogether the £15,000 borrowed upon the
cemetery, which was commenced in 1866, and is surrounded by a low wall topped with railings, and is being
laid out so as to have a public walk round it, separate from the burial-ground itself. Within the cemetery
are three mortuary chapels, all of Gothic architecture, for the Church of England, the Dissenters, and the
Roman Catholics. There are also the registrar's house, gardener's dwelling, lodge, entrance-gates, etc. The
commissioners have expended a great portion of the money borrowed for paving and sewering purposes, on
sewers, the construction of which was commenced during the cotton-famine, and in paving streets. The
following are the chief items of receipts and expenditure of the Improvement Commissioners for the year
ended March 25, 1867 :—
General Rate.—Dr. Receipts from improvement rates, £5144; for paving and flagging, £935; from public baths, £284; to
redemption-fund, £610; total, £7041. Cr. Paving department—(wages for paving and flagging, £704; scavenging and watering
streets, £604), £1958; lighting (gas in public lamps, £569), £890; fire brigade, £196 ; salaries, £495; baths, £384; and repairs,
£337; sundry accounts (removing nightsoil, £477; interest on mortgage, less tax, £319), £1126 : burial board, proportion of first
rate 1866, £884; mortgage repaid, £600; total, £7127; balance owing to the Bury Banking Company, £86. Sewer Rate. —Dr.
Received from rates, £1548 ; for sewering, £265; borrowed on mortgage, £300; total, £2115. Cr. By balance, Bury Banking
Company, £550; wages and materials for new sewers, £1863; for reconstructing, repairing, and cleansing sewers, £309; salaries,
£133; interest on mortgages (less tax), £635; mortgages repaid, £533; total, £4422; balance owing to the Bury Banking Company,
#2307. Public Works Loan Account—Paving—Dr. (Including a second advance from Public Works Commissioners of £5000),
£6955. Cr. (Including paving, flagging, etc., £1043; set stones, flags, etc., £3662), £6955; showing a balance with the Bury
Bank of £1737. Sewering—Total, £302. General Rate Stock Account. —Dr. Amount owing for materials, £750. Net amount
owing on mortgage, £6885; owing Public Works Loan Commissioners, £9833; total, £20,413. Cr. Materials, £7267; Premises in
Stanley Street, £1196 ; owing for paving materials, £1506; premises, furniture, etc., for public baths, £3621; uncollected rates,
£5048; balance with Bury Bank, £1734. Sewer Rate Stock. —Dr. Net amount owing on mortgage, £5463; owing Public Works
Commissioners on mortgage, £9666 ; owing Bury Bank, £2307; total, £17,622. Cr. Balance, £14,435. Public Works Loan
Account—Cemetery—Paid to the Public Works Loan Commissioners, interest, £520; and principal, £500; on building account, £500;
total, £3994; balance with Bury Bank, £2356. The stock account shows the amount borrowed on mortgage to be £14,500, and
the cost of land for the site of the cemetery, £8578. Capital Account.—Dr. Cost of works, land, building, and plant, as transferred
to the Bury Commissioners, £52,249 ; parliamentary expenses in obtaining acts of 1857 and 1866, £996. Expended for new works,
new mains, and wages to March 1866, £13,046; ditto, new works, year ending March 1867, £1556; new mains, ditto., £1072;
total, £69,407. Cr. By 925 annuities, at £50 each, £46,250, less annuities redeemed, £19,850; net £26,400; loans on mortgage,
#37,200; balance, £5807. Revenue Account.—Dr. Rents of gas, private consumption, £13,279 ; public lights, £587; moiety of
profits allowed to consumers, £2167; coke, etc., £1279; tar, £273; meters, £608; total, £18,751. Cr. Cost of manufacturing gas
(cannel and coal, £6861), £9221; cost of distributing it, #1458; general charges (rates and taxes, £800; salaries, £625; interest on
loans, £1404; annuities, £1080), £4246; two per cent, or £37,200, Carried to sinking-fund account, #744; balance, being profit
for the year, and carried to account of realised profits, £3034.
The commissioners under the local act have power to buy compulsorily houses and other property for
#umbren of $alfort—35urg 33arigly. 521
street improvements, and they have been for some time carrying out some improvements and commencing
others, as opening out new streets and widening others.
Petty sessions are held at Bury for the Bury division of the county, every Monday and Thursday, at
the Court-house, in the town-hall, Market Street, before magistrates of the county, acting in and for the
division, which includes the townships of Bury, Elton, Ainsworth, Ashworth, Birtle-cum-Bamford, Walmersley-
cum-Shuttleworth, Tottington-Lower-End, Tottington-Higher-End, Heap, Radcliffe, Pilkington, Pilsworth, and
Hopwood.
An estimate as to the population in 1867, prepared for the Boundary Commissioners, gives the
following:—The present parliamentary borough of Bury, 40,000; the township of Bury, 32,000; Elton, 9000;
Walmersley, 5500; Birtle-cum-Bamford, 2500; Heap, 20,000; Hopwood, 3000; Radcliffe, 9500; Pilkington,
12,500 ; Ainsworth, 1900; Tottington-Lower-Eend, 13,000; Pilsworth, 343; and Ashworth, 233. The
present municipal borough includes the whole of the township of Bury and part of the township of Elton;
the parliamentary borough of Bury includes the whole of the township of Bury and part of that of Elton, but
takes in rather more of the latter township ; so that it has a larger area and a slightly greater population
than the municipal borough.
The county-court is held in the sessions room, town-hall; the sittings are weekly, before W. S. T.
Greene, esq., barrister-at-law, the judge. In this court, during 1866, 2070 causes were determined, all without
a jury, and the aggregate amount of debts on judgments obtained by the plaintiffs was £4526. There were in
the year eighteen adjudications in bankruptcy. A court-baron is also held every three weeks for the recovery
of debts under 40s. ; but practically it is superseded by the County Courts.
Bury is guarded by a small body of the county constabulary, whose station is in the market-place.
The force consists of one superintendent, one inspector, two sergeants, and eighteen constables. In the Bury
division, the force consists of thirty-five men, in addition to the town force just enumerated.
The Improvement Commissioners have established a fire-brigade, provided with all the necessary appa-
ratus for the speedy extinction of fires, including about 150 hydrants. In addition to this fire department
of the commissioners, five manufacturing firms in the town have each provided for their respective establish-
ments a private fire-engine. Formerly the West of England Fire Insurance Company had an engine at
Bury; but it was removed some years ago.
Bury and the neighbourhood are supplied with water by the Bury and Radcliffe Water-works Company,
which have a gathering-ground, having an area of many square miles, with storage and other reservoirs ex-
tending over an area of 25 acres. The daily supply of water to Bury is about 1,500,000 gallons. The price
charged for water used for domestic purposes, if the rental be under £4 per annum, is 6s. 6d. a-year; if the
rental be £50 per annum, it is £1 : 16s. yearly, and so on in proportion to the rent. An extra charge is made
for water used for trade purposes, at the rent of tempence per 1000 gallons.
There are three banks in Bury—the Savings' Bank, in Bank Street; a branch of the Manchester and
Liverpool District Bank, in Market Street ; and the Bury Banking Company, in Silver Street. This
company was established in June 1836, and at present includes 122 partners. Its capital is £89,900, and
the reserve fund £120,000. The last dividend was one of 20 per cent. New premises for the bank are now
(November 1867) in progress of erection, which, when completed, will form the most handsome and orna-
mental structure in the town. The estimated cost is £10,000.
The Bury Dispensary was founded in 1829, and is under the present patronage of the earl of Derby,
R. N. Philips, esq., M.P., and other gentlemen. The Rev. Canon Hornby, the rector, is its president. The
subscriptions amount to about £150 per annum, and the number of patients averages about 500 a-year.
The Dispensary premises are in Knowsley Street. t -
There are three newspapers in Bury, all weekly; the Bury Times, published by J. Heap ; the Bury
Guardian, by T. Crompton; and the Bury Broadsheet, by D. Thomas.
About 1851, a statue monument of the late Sir Robert Peel, the statesman, was erected in the old
market-place. A public subscription amounted to about £3000, and the models of various competing
sculptors were exhibited in the Bury Athenæum. The one selected was from a design of Mr. E. H. Baily,
R.A., and it was successfully carried out. It consists of a bronze statue of the statesman, standing in a
commanding position upon a granite pedestal. Its inauguration was marked by a public demonstration,
many thousand persons having assembled, and the statue on being uncovered was greeted with loud expressions
of applause. The pecuniary liabilities and other obligations of the monument-committee were transferred to
the Bury Improvement Commissioners, who received the monument in charge and trust for the people of
Bury, and in whose keeping it still remains. About the same time another monument to the memory of Sir
Robert Peel was erected on Holcombe Hill. It is a stone tower, with an internal spiral staircase; and from
the top of this tower, in consequence of its elevated position, the sea can be distinctly seen. This monument
was also erected by Subscription.
The Bury Co-operative Society was established in 1856, and in November 1867 numbered 5000
members. It possesses seventeen clothing-shops and provision-stores, and the amount annually received
3 X. -
522 (The ºigturn of 3Lancagüirº,
from the sale of goods is £160,000, from the net profits on which there is yearly divided amongst the
members the sum of £16,000 as dividend. It has a library containing 3400 volumes, and the society
devotes no less than £500 a-year to educational purposes, with reference to the members and their children.
A mechanics' institution was commenced in Bury in 1836, and at first held its meetings in small school-
rooms in Silver Street. In 1844 it removed to a woollen warehouse in the Wyld, the use of which was
granted gratuitously by Mr. Edmund Grundy; but their numbers increasing, it was resolved to canvass for
subscriptions to erect a new building. The earl of Derby, lord of the manor, gave a piece of land for a site
and 100 guineas, and a subscription amounting to about £3000 led to the erection of a new building in
Market Street, adjoining the Derby Hotel, called the Bury Athenæum, of which the corner-stone was laid by
Lord Stanley on 3d October 1850. The building is Italian in character, 122 feet long, 44 feet high, and 43
feet deep, consisting of a basement and two storeys; the basement containing spacious class-rooms, baths, etc.
On the first floor a room, 43 by 30 feet (intended for a museum), the news-room, committee-room, reading-
room, etc. On the second floor, an ante-room, opening into a fine hall for meetings, lectures, etc, 68% by 43
feet, having a gallery, an Orchestra, lecturer's-room, etc. Its cost was about £4000, and to it 250 members
of the old institute brought 1000 volumes of books. In November 1867 it numbered about 500 members,
the subscription being 2s. 6d. per quarter. It has various classes for elementary instruction, a news-room,
and a library containing about 4000 volumes.
One distinguishing feature in this, as in almost every other parish of Lancashire, is the improvement and
shortening of public roads; and by one of these public-spirited efforts, Bury, which used to be nine miles from
Manchester is now brought within seven miles and a half of that great market for its manufacturing pro-
ductions. -
A melancholy event, which will long be remembered in this town, and which ought to serve as a per-
petual caution against large bodies of people pressing into slenderly-constructed buildings, occurred in the night
of the 4th July 1787, when the theatre fell, and buried 300 persons in the ruins. The consternation in every
part of the town was indescribable ; and though a considerable part of the audience were speedily extricated
from their perilous situation, sixteen persons were killed, and upwards of fifty had broken limbs and other
Serious injuries. A more recent and still more fatal occurrence produced one of those awful sensations in this
parish, that will be felt during a whole generation.
On the 17th of August 1831, the Rothsay Castle steam-packet, from Liverpool for Beaumaris on an excursion of pleasure,
having encountered a violent storm on her passage, struck on Dutchman Bank, at the entrance of Beaumaris Bay, about
midnight; and the vessel being old, and of frail construction, became a complete wreck before ten o'clock in the morning.
The horrors of the scene no pen can adequately describe ; with extreme difficulty and hazard about twenty passengers made
their escape on fragments of the vessel, but, of the 150 persons on board, 128 perished of which number, no fewer than twenty-
one of the sufferers were from the parish of Bury | Amongst the victims of this fatal night were Mr. William Tarrey of Bury,
land-agent to the earl of Derby, and his whole family, consisting of his wife, with five of their children, and a servant maid.
This melancholy catastrophe was principally to be ascribed to the intoxication of the captain. The number of persons from
Bury on board the vessel when she became a wreck are thus classified:—1. Mr. Wm. Tarrey; Mrs. Tarrey, his wife; Betsey and
Thomas Tarrey, his children by a former marriage ; John Tarrey, his only son by his wife who suffered with him ; Thomas
and Mary Appleton, her son and daughter by a former marriage; and Rachel Howarth, their servant maid. 2. Mr. W. Walmesley
and Mrs. Walmesley of Sudfield, with their son Henry; Miss Margaret Walmesley of Boor Edge; Mr. James Fitton of Sudfield,
and Miss Selina Lant of Bury. 3. “Mr. Robert Whittaker of Bury, and James his only child, and * Mary Whittaker
his sister, and Thomas her son ; and Mr. John Wilkinson of Bury. 4. *Mr. John Nuttal of Bury. 5. Mr. Thomas Charles
of Bury. 6. *Mr. John Duckworth of Shuttleworth, and Mrs. Duckworth his wife ; *Mr. Lawrence Duckworth of Edenfield,
and Mrs. Duckworth his wife ; and Mr. Thomas Entwistle of Edenfield."
The market at Bury, which was formerly held on the Thursday, according to the charter, has long been
discontinued; but custom has established a market on the Saturday, which is well supplied with provisions,
and numerously attended. There are three annual fairs, namely—on the 5th of March, the 3d of May, and
the 18th of September. The ancient Market Cross, a stone column, bearing the date of 1659, having fallen
into decay, was taken down in 1818. Marriages were proclaimed at this cross in the time of the Common-
wealth. A large open market, enclosed within walls, was erected in the centre of the town in 1841, on the
land and at the cost of the earl of Derby. Though very convenient in many respects, its exposure to the
weather during the inclemency of winter and in the rainy season was much complained of by those who
occupied stalls within it. This defect is now (November 1867) being remedied by a glass and iron roof,
which is constructed and placed at the cost of the noble earl; who derives a considerable income from the
letting of the shops and stalls in this market.
The Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, Bamford, was opened February 28, 1836. The first stone of the new
church at Heywood, St. James's, was laid July 2, 1836. Two chapels, one Independent, and the other Pri-
mitive Methodist, were founded at Heywood on Good Friday 1835. Two new churches were projected in
June 1836, to which the earl of Derby contributed £1000. St. Paul's was consecrated in 1842, and Holy
Trinity in 1865. A Scotch church at Ramsbottom was erected at the sole cost of William Grant, esq., and
opened June 15, 1834.”
* Those marked with an asterisk were saved; the rest all The last survivor of the passengers, Mr. Lawrence Duckworth, is
perished. still (1867) living at Edenfield.—H.
* Rev. Thos. Selkirk's Record of the Loss of the Rothsay Castle. * By the census of 1851, the numbers of places of worship and
#umbrell of Šalfort—13ttru 33arigſ). 523
Bury is amongst the boroughs enfranchised by the Reform Act, and returns one member to parliament.
By the statute “for settling and describing the divisions of counties, and the limits of cities and boroughs,”
it is enacted that this borough shall be comprehended within the following boundaries:–
“From the point in the hamlet of Starling, at which a boundary-stone marks the boundary of the respective townships of Elton and
Ainsworth, along the lane from Starling to Walshaw Lane, to the point in the hamlet of Walshaw Lane at which a boundary-stone marks
the boundary of the respective townships of Elton and Tottington-Lower-End; thence eastward, along the boundary of the township of
Elton, to the point at which the same meets the Woodhill Brook, thence in a straight line to the point at which the Pigs Lea Brook falls
into the river Irwell; thence, eastward, along the boundary of the township of Bury, to the point at which the same meets the boundary
of the township of Elton ; thence, westward, along the boundary of the township of Elton to the point first described.”
The following are the elections since the Reform Act of 1832 —
BURY.—(ONE MEMBER.)
ELECTORS IN 1832, 539.—1865, 1307.
Flections, Elections. -
1832. Dec. Richard Walker & g e (L.) 306 1847. Aug. Richard Walker * g e (L.)
E. Grundy . o ſº * (L.) 153 1852. July Frederick Peel . g º (L.) 472
*== , Wiscount Duncan . º º (L.) 410
1835. Jan. Richard Walker t e (L.) sºm-º-º-º-º:
1837. Aug. Richard Walker . g g (L.) 251 1857. Mar. Robert Needham Philips. & (L.) 565
James P. Cobbett . e º (L.) 96 Frederick Peel g * e (L.) 530
Robert Spankie ę & g (C.) 86 *-ºs º-mº
- *º-º-º-º-º: 1859. April Right Hon. Frederick Pee te (L.) 633
1841. July Richard Walker & tº * (L.) 325 Thomas Barnes g gº © (L.) 477
H. Hardman . tº * º (c.) 288 ---
- *-m-m-mº 1865. July Robert Needham Philips . * (L.) 595
Right Hon. Frederick Peel . (L.) 573
The parliamentary electoral returns for 1865-6 show the following facts as to the parliamentary borough
of Bury :—Population in 1831, 19,140 ; in 1861, 37,563—increase 18,423 ; (computed) in 1866, 41,175—
increase 22,035. Inhabited houses in 1861, 7257. Number of electors on the parliamentary register, É10
occupiers, in 1832-3, 535 ; in 1865-6, 1366 ; but deducting double entries on the register (14), the actual
number of electors is 1352, of whom 1167 voted at the last general election. The number of working men
on the present parliamentary register is 218. The gross estimated rental in 1856 was, £112,884; in 1865-6,
£131,595. The rateable value in 1856 was £86,014 ; in 1862, £110,752; and in 1865-6, £124,772. The
gross annual value of all the messuages or tenements, and lands, including rent tithe-charge, according to the
income-tax assessment schedule A, is £127,163. The gross estimated rental of such property, according to
the valuation-list, is £116,537. The number of male occupiers under £10 is 4916; at £10 and over, 1591;
total 6507 ; male occupiers at a rateable value of £4 and under £10,4127; £10 and over, 1228. The gross
estimated rental is considered to represent the full rack-rent. A deduction of 15 per cent is made from the
gross estimated rental in estimating the rateable value of houses at and under £10.
MUSBURY.-Of the townships in the parish of Bury, Musbury, at its north-western extremity, is in the
hundred of Blackburn, and two miles south-west from Haslingden. The hill of Tor, in this township, is
remarkable for its oval form and extensive views over the neighbouring wild and romantic region. It is a
barren conical hill, sometimes called Musbury Hill. Musbury Park, meaning (says Dr. Whitaker), the hill
of moss, is on the confines of Rossendale Forest, and was anciently enclosed as a laund for the lord’s deer.
From the act of resumption of the crown possessions, passed 1 Henry VII. (1485-6), it appears that the
patent office, then existing, of park-keeper of Musbury, was held by Laurens Maderer, and that his rights and
privileges were secured by that act, as were also those of “John Hawardyn, Attourney at Lawe, within the
Countie Palatyne of Lancastre, and Baron of the Eschekker there ; of Rauf Hilton, Bailliff of Salford ; of
Lawrence Leyner, Porter of Clidrowe Castell; of Richard Orell, Constable of the Castell of Clidrowe ; and of
Adam Birkenhed, Clerke of the Crowne within the Countie of Lancastre.”
COWPE, LENCH, NEWHALL HEY, and HALL CARR, are four smallvillages on the banks of the Irwell, and
the township formed by them is on the confines of the two hundreds of Salford and Blackburn. The inhabit-
ants of these villages, like those in the other townships of the parish, are actively engaged in both the cotton
and woollen branches. At Cowpe Law there is a bold eminence, commanding an extensive view of the
county, where horse-races were formerly run. Cowpe Moss, 1550 feet in height, is said to be the highest hill
in south Lancashire. Descending to the south, we approach to the centre of the royal manor of Tottington,
the successive possession of the houses of Lincoln and Lancaster, and the seat of the superior court to which
the manors of Bury, Middleton, Chadderton, and Alkrington, owe suit and service. This manor, after having
sittings in the parliamentary borough of Bury (population, 31,262) Methodists, 1, 300; Wesleyan Association, 1, 794; New Church, 1,
were these :—Church of England, 4, 5578; Independents, 4, 1850; 120 ; Roman Catholics, 1, 550 ; Latter-Day Saints, 1, 250; Jews,
Particular Baptists, 2, 750; Unitarians, 1, 702; Wesleyan Metho- 1, 14. Total, 21 places, 12,920 sittings.
dists, 3, 1480; Methodist New Connection, 1, 796 ; Primitive 1 Rot. Parl, vol. vi. p. 364.
524 Çüt #igturn of £ancašijire.
served as a portion of the reward given to General Monk, duke of Albemarle, for the services rendered in restoring
the house of Stuart to the throne of England, is now enjoyed by the duke of Buccleuch, in whom the Albe-
marle possessions vest. The manor, honor, or forest, of Tottington, by each of which names it is designated,
stretches five miles on both banks of the Irwell, from the township of Elton, in the parish of Bury, to the
opening into the parish of Whalley, in the forest of Rossendale, and is three miles in breadth, from Shuttle-
worth in the township of Walmersley, to Edgeworth in the parish of Bolton. Roger de Montbegon, who
held as mesne lord under the Lacies, gave and confirmed to God and St. Mary Magdalen of Bretton [Monk
Bretton, in Yorkshire], and to the monks serving God there—
The whole forest of Holecombe, and the pasture within the bounds underwritten, namely—as far as the forest extends in length
and breadth towards Querendon, and ascending by the bounds of the forest up to Langschahehevet (Long-shaw-head), and thence
across as the path divides, into Holcumbehevet (Holcombe-head), across to Arkilleshow (Arkills-howe), and thence through the
middle of Arkilleshow up to Pilegrimescrosschahe (Pilgrim's-cross-shaw), and thence descending to the road which leads through
the middle of Titleshow, following the said road up to Caldwell, following Caldewelle Sike to the water of Yrewell, and thence
descending to Titleshoubroc (Titles-howe-brook), and ascending by Titleshoubroc to the way which leads through the middle of
Titleshow, and thence towards the west, following the lane called “The Lane of Robbers” as far as Salterbrigge, and from Salter-
brigge to the road of Oskellie. “The said monks may have of the wood between Holcumbe and Titleshougate sufficient for their
building, and burning for their shepherds, and reasonable fodder for their cattle in winter. Further, I give them three acres of
meadow under Arkilles-how, near Pilgrim's-cross-shaw, and they may make a fence every year round the meadow, and round his
meadow at Haderleies, as they will. They may build their house where Henry Lunggeiambe dwelt, or elsewhere toward Querendon,
where they will.”l
This charter is of a period anterior to the use of dates; but as Roger de Montebegon died 10 Henry
III. (1225) it was probably granted about the commencement of that monarch's reign. Several of the places
mentioned retain their ancient names, and in Querendon and Langschahehevet we recognise the modern
names of Quarlton and Upper Lenshaw. Pilgrimescrosschahe was probably the site of an ancient cross
where the pilgrims reposed themselves and offered up their religious services on their progress through the
forest to the parent church at Whalley. The names of Adam de Biri, Roger de Midelton, Robert de Hep,
and John Delamar, amongst the witnesses, fix the locality with sufficient precision.
Before the dissolution of the monasteries, Sir Thomas Pilkington had possessions in Tottington and
Shuttleworth, which passed with his other forfeited estates to the Stanleys.” In awarding the property of
the priory of Monk Bretton, Holcombe was granted, by letters patent under the seal of Henry VIII., to John
Braddyll of Whalley, gentleman, by the description of “all those lands, etc., lying in Holcame, otherwise
called Holcome and Tottington, Co. Lancaster, to the late priory of Monk Bretton, Co. York, recently
belonging.”" The manorial court of Tottington is still held annually, on the 24th day of April, in the court-
house, which stands near Holcombe chapel, and bears the date of 1664; the manorial tenants pay a chief
rent to their lord of from fourpence to sixpence per acre for their land. In the 17th century, this manor
was divided for parochial and police purposes into two townships, called Tottington-Higher-End and Totting-
ton-Lower-End. Tottington Hall was the seat of a collateral branch of the family of Notogh of Notogh,
settled here certainly early in the reign of Queen Elizabeth, according to Dugdale's pedigree of the house,
which failed in an heiress in the 18th century. Thomas Nuttall of Tottington Hall, gentleman, by will, dated
14th May 1726, devised his estates in Tottington and elsewhere to trustees, for the use of his sole child
Margaret, wife of Adam Bagshawe of Wormhill, Co. Derby, esq., for her life, with remainder to her sons
in tail-male. In failure of issue, the estates were devised to the testator's kinsman, Thomas, son of William
Langley of Thornscow, Co. York, gentleman, charged with legacies to the testator's godson Thomas, son
of Nathan Nuttall of Elton, and to testator's sister Crompton's children. The line is presumed to be repre-
sented (through Bagshawe) by Robert Radcliffe of Foxdenton, esq."
ELTON.—This township extends on the south-eastern side into the town of Bury, and the most populous
part of that township, in common parlance, constitutes part of the town of Bury. Manufactures prevail here
to a great extent. Brandlesholme Hall, the ancient seat of the Greenhalghes, with its gabled front, the older
portions of the time of Henry VIII., was built in the usual ornamental style of wood, stone, and brick. It was
partially taken down in 1852, and rebuilt by R. S. Kay, esq. The Brandlesome estate passed by marriage with
Alice, daughter and heiress of Henry de Brandlesome, to Henry, son and heir of John Grenehalghe of Grene-
halgh, temp. Richard II. The last heir-male of the family was Henry Greenhalgh, esq., who died about the
middle of the last century. The estate now belongs by purchase to Henry Folliott Powell, esq., a captain in
the Ceylon Rifle Regiment.”
HEAP.-In this township is Heywood, known as the birthplace and the country residence of that zealous
Lancashire magistrate, Peter Heywood, mentioned by Lord Clarendon, in his history of the Great Rebellion,
whose fortune it was to contribute to the discovery of the conspirators implicated in the gunpowder treason,
and who narrowly escaped assassination, at a subsequent period, by the hand of a frantic Dominican friar, for
urging “poor Catholics” to take the oath of allegiance and supremacy. Stowe, in his Survey of London, says
of Mr. Heywood, that “in the late built church [St. Ann’s, Aldersgate, London] is one flat stone in the
* From the Register of the Priory of Munkbreton, penes Sir 8 Braddyll MSS. No. 57.
Francis Wortley, knight and baronet. * Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 30.
* Records of the Duchy of Lancaster, Bundle H, No. 13. * Ibid. ii. 28.
:*
pumrºn of $alford-35urg 33arigº. 525
chancel, laid over Peter Heiwood, that deceased Nov. 2, 1701, youngest son of Peter Heiwood, one of the
councellours of Jamaica, by Grace, daughter of Sir John Muddeford, knt. and bart., great-grandson to Peter
Heiwood, of Heiwood, in the county palatine of Lancaster, who apprehended Guy Faux with his dark lanthorn;
and for his zealous prosecution of Papists, as Justice of Peace, was stabbed in Westminster Hall, by John
James, Dominican Friar, Ann. Dom. 1640.” Heywood Hall, with its coat of ivy, was the residence of the
Heywoods, from the latter part of the thirteenth century till it was sold by the Rev. Robert Heywood, in 1717,
to Mr. John Starky, Rochdale, grandfather of James Starky, esq., sheriff of Lancashire in 1791, who died in
1846, leaving no issue." The village of Heywood, though consisting in the middle of the last century of only
a few straggling houses, is now a mile and a half in length, and has become of so much manufacturing import-
ance, as to justify the cutting of a canal from this place to the Rochdale Canal.
Heywood Chapel, dedicated to St. Luke, was built prior to 1577, in which year it is represented in
Saxton's Map of Lancashire. In 1717 the advowson of the chapel was conveyed by the Rev. Robert Hey-
wood to Mr. Starky, along with the soil and site upon which the chapel was built ; but the patronage has long
been exercised by the rector of Bury. A bay of building and a chamber over it had been erected on the
north side of the chapel by John Starky senior, esq., before 1737, and used as a school, to which James
Lancashire left by will fä0, and Mr. Starky gave £50, which money, at the request of the Rev. Nathan
Stock, M.A., minister of Heywood, was invested in a rent-charge of £5 per annum on some houses in Hey-
wood, payable to a master nominated by the owner of Heywood Hall, to teach children in the principles of
the Church of England. The estate of Heywood was granted by Sir Adam de Bury to Peter de Heywood,
who was living in 4 Edward I. (1275), and was then seised of the vill of Heywood, which continued in
the uninterrupted possession of his descendants until 1717, when the Hall and a good estate were conveyed
by sale to John Starky of Rochdale, gentleman.” -
WALMERSLEY. —This township on the east bank of the Irwell exhibits the remains of a beacon probably
erected in the time of Queen Elizabeth, under the influence of the threatened invasion from the Spanish
Armada, when a rate was imposed on Lancashire for keeping these watch-towers and flaming messengers of
danger in proper order. Happily for the peaceful inhabitants, these times have long since passed; and the
preparations at Boulogne, under the Emperor Napoleon, in the early part of the present century, were not
sufficiently formidable to rescue the rude structure on Whittle Pike from the ruin to which it is fast hastening.
In a clear atmosphere, the estuary of the Mersey, near Runcorn, is seen from this elevated station; and
thirty or forty years ago, it was customary for parties of pleasure, at periodical seasons, to resort to the
summit of this eminence to inhale the pure air, and to regale themselves with the extensive and diversified
prospects which it commands. A prospect tower was erected on a neighbouring hill (Top o' the Hoof) by
the Messrs. Grant, the great manufacturers of the district, and a better-selected situation could scarcely have
been found for the purpose. Cob House, the residence of the brave and loyal Captain Kay in 1644, stands
at the south-eastern extremity of the township of Walmersley.
The parish of Bury is ten miles in length from north to south, and five miles in breadth from east to
west, and comprehends about 24,320 statute acres. Its early edifices are Heywood Hall (1611), Bamford Hall,
Bridge Hall, Lower Chesham, Redvales (Starkies), Lower Redvales (1628), Cob House, Lumm Hall, New Hall,
Ashen Bottom (1650),” Walsham Hall, New-hall Hey, Nuttall Hall, and Brandlesholme Hall.
The estate of Bamford was granted to Thomas de Bamford by Sir Adam de Bury, temp. Henry III., for his homage and service,
and two marks (26s. 8d.) and a yearly rent of 18d. at the feast of St. Oswald the king (August 5); and the same Sir Adam after-
wards granted all his lands in Bamford to Alexander de Bamford for a pecuniary consideration and a yearly rent of 40d. payable
at St. Oswald's day. The estate descended lineally to William Bamford, esq., who died in 1757, leaving by his wife Margaret
(daughter of Edward Davenport of Stockport, esq.) three daughters and co-heiresses; and all of them dying without issue, it was
devised by Ann, the eldest, in 1779, to William Bamford of Tarlton Bridge, a remote kinsman, afterwards sheriff of Lancashire,
who married, in 1786, Anna, daughter of Thomas Blackburne of Hale, esq. ; but dying in 1806 without male issue it passed, with
a distant female relative, in marriage to Robert Hesketh of Upton, Co. Chester, esq., who assumed the surname of Bamford in
1806, and was grandfather of Lloyd Hesketh Bamford-Hesketh, of Gwyrch Castle, Co. Denbigh, esq. Bamford was purchased
by Mr. Joseph Fenton, whose son, James Fenton, esq., in 1841, took down the hall, which had been rebuilt in the time of Queen
Anne, and erected near the former site a large and handsome modern house.—New Hall was purchased in 1538 by Lawrence
Rawsthorne of Windsor, Co. Berks, gent., son and heir of William Rawsthorne and his wife Margaret (daughter of Emor
Halliwell of Rochdale), second son of Adam Rawsthorne of Lumm, gent. It continued to be the residence of this family until the
latter part of the seventeenth century. The family is now represented, and this estate held, by Lawrence Rawstorne of Penwortham,
esq., Lieutenant-colonel of the 1st Royal Lancashire Militia, and sheriff of the county in 1814.—Lumm Hall, in Edenfield, became the
seat of Adam Rawsthorne, gent., before 22 Edward IV. (1482), and was conveyed in marriage by Elizabeth, daughter and heiress
of Edward Rawsthorne, esq., about 1660, to Thomas Bradshaw, esq., seventh son of John Bradshaw of Bradshaw, esq., and his
wife Alice, daughter of Sir George Leicester of Toft, bart.—Nuthall Hall, in the hamlet of Holcombe and township of Tottington,
was the seat of Richard de Notogh, born before 41 Edward III. (1368), and living 20 Richard II. (1397) and 10 Henry IV. (1408);
it descended to Richard de Notogh, living 9 Henry VII. (1493-4). After many intermediate descents, the estate passed from this
family, probably by marriage, to Miles Lonsdale of Field House, esq., about 1698, and was conveyed, by his descendant and repre-
1 For some interesting particulars of the Heywoods, see Rev. * Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 33.
T. Corser's James's Iter Lancastrense, vol. 7 of the Chetham 8 Tradition represents Ashen as a perversion of “Slashing,” and
Society's series; Wotitia, Cestriensis, note by Rev. Canon Raines, Edenfield as the scene of a Sanguinary battle ; but when fought,
ii. 29. - and by whom, does not appear.
526 (The #istory of £ancashire.
sentative Ann, only child of Henry Lonsdale, esq., about 1790, in marriage, to the Rev. Richard Formby of Formby, LL.B., by
whom it was sold to Mr. Grant.—John, son of Nicholas Golyn of Golynrode, in Walmersley, in the parish of Bury, conveyed
Golynrode by deed, dated 7th September 1491, to Henry Notogh of Notogh ; and the arms and Crest allowed in 1664 to Thomas
Nuttall of Tottington, claiming to represent a collateral line, were allowed by order of Chapter, in 1841, to George Ormerod of
Tyldesley and Sedbury, esq., as heir-general of Nuttall of Golynrode, connected with the parent line by registered descent
(Worfolk, viii. 64, 68, Coll. Arm.)—Booth Hall, a fine wood and plaster building of the time of Henry VII., was at that period the
property and residence of a family of that name, which continued here till shortly after 1664, at which time George Booth, gent.,
son of Richard Booth and his wife Dorothy (daughter of Andrew Holden of Todd Hall, gent.), and grandson of John Booth of
Booth (who married Alice, daughter of Edward Rawsthorne of Newhall, esq.), recorded a short pedigree. The estate passed,
probably by purchase, to James Lomax of Unsworth, gent, and was conveyed in marriage by Elizabeth, one of his daughters and
co-heiresses, in 1693, to John Halliwell of Pike House, esq., whose descendant John Beswicke, gent., B.A., a Scholar of St. John's
College, Cambridge, devised it in 1772 to the uses of his will, and being sold, it was purchased in 1796 for £3.195 by Robert
Nuttall of Bury, esq. It is now the property of his grandson, Robert Nuttall of Kempsay House, Co. Worcester, esq.-Bridge
Hall was, in 22 Edward IV. (1482), the residence of Roger Holt, gent., a younger son of — Holt of Grislehurst, and continued in
the same family in 1664, when Roger Holt, gent, who married Jane, daughter of Thomas Greenhalgh of Brandlesome, recorded a
short pedigree. His son Richard Holt married Sarah, daughter of the Rev. Robert Bellis, M.A., incumbent of Ince, Co. Chester,
and was living in 1706, having one daughter and heiress, who married Nathaniel Gaskell of Manchester, gent, by whom she had
two daughters and co-heiresses—Rebecca, who married Richard Clive of Styche, Co. Salop, esq., father of Robert, first Lord Clive;
and Sarah, who married Hugh, eleventh Lord Sempill. The estate was purchased of Lord Sempill and the Clives in 1736 by
Robert Nuttall of Bury, merchant, and sold by his descendant Robert Nuttall, esq., to Edmund Grundy, esq., the present owner.
The house has been modernised, but some of the earlier Elizabethan parts remain.”
The manners of the people are less primitive than they were before the extensive introduction of the
manufacturing system, and the general prevalence of Sunday schools; the pure Lancashire dialect is
gradually withdrawing itself, and the words “chus” (choose) for as, and “graidly” for proper, are now more
seldom heard than formerly. They are, however, by no means discarded. There is an ancient celebration
here on Mid-Lent, or, as it is called, “Simbling Sunday,” when large cakes, with the name of “Simblings”
(Simnels), are sold generally in the town of Bury, and the shops are kept open the whole day, except during
divine service, for the purpose of vending this mysterious aliment, which is usually taken with large draughts
of “mulled ale.”
The worthies of the parish of Bury have been sufficiently numerous, but their biographers have been
very few. The talented but eccentric Warburton, Somerset Herald, has, however, escaped the common
oblivion. -
JOHN WARBURTON, esq., F.R.S. and F.A.S., Somerset Herald, a persevering and indefatigable antiquary, was the son of
Mr. Benjamin Warburton of Bury in this county, by Mary, eldest daughter, and at length heiress, of Michael Buxton, of
Buxton, in the county of Derby, gentleman, and born on the 28th of February 1681. He was a man of inferior education, but
possessed of great natural abilities, and made his first appearance before the public in 1716, by compiling, from actual survey, a
map of the county of Northumberland, followed soon after by others of Middlesex, Essex, Hertfordshire, and Yorkshire. In 1719
he was elected Fellow of the Royal and Antiquarian Societies, and continued of the latter body till his death, but was ejected from
the former in June 1757, in consequence of having neglected, for a great number of years, the completion of his annual payments.
On the 24th of June 1720 he was created Somerset Herald, by Benjamin Bowes-Howard, earl of Berkshire, Deputy Earl Marshal,
having previously received his patent, dated on the 18th. In 1722 he published, in four closely-printed quarto pages, “A List of
the Nobility and Gentry of the Counties of Middlesex, Essex, and Hertford, who have subscribed for, or ordered their coats of arms
to be inscribed on, a new map of those counties, which is now making by John Warburton, esq., F.R.S. and Somerset Herald.”
In August 1728 he gave notice that “he keeps a register of lands, houses, etc., which are to be bought, sold, or mortgaged in
England, Scotland, or Wales; and, if required, directs surveys thereof to be made ; also solicits grants of arms, and performs all
other matters relating to the office of a herald. For which purpose daily attendance is given at his chambers in the Herald Office,
near Doctors Commons, London. He answers letters, post-paid, and advertises, if required ;’ which quackery did not raise him
very high in the opinion of his brethren. In 1749 he published a map of Middlesex, on two sheets of imperial atlas, with the arms
of the nobility and gentry on the borders. But the Earl Marshal, supposing them to be fictitious, by his warrant commanded him
not to take in any subscriptions for arms, nor advertise or dispose of any maps, till the right of such persons respectively was first
proved to the satisfaction of one of the kings-of-arms. In his book of “London and Middlesex Illustrated,” after observing on the
Earl Marshal's injunction respecting the submission of his maps to the judgment of One of the kings-of-arms, he subjoins, “which
person's (Anstis) partiality being well known to the author, he thought it best to have another arbitrator joined with him, and
therefore made choice of an impartial public, rather than submit his performance wholly to the determination of a person so
notoriously remarkable for knowing nothing at all of the matter.” After censuring the notion that trade and gentility are
incompatible, as a doctrine fitted only for a despotic government, and judiciously remarking upon the moral impossibility there
would soon be of proving descents and arms, from the want of visitations, he returns to attack the heads of the college by saying
that such proofs are obstructed by the exorbitant and unjustifiable fees of three heralds, called kings-of-arms, who receive each
£30 for every new grant. In this book he gives the names, residences, genealogies, and coat-armour of the nobility, principal
merchants, and other eminent families, emblazoned in their proper colours, with references to authorities. That Warburton was
often in distress for money, and at such times had very little delicacy in relieving himself from his embarrassments, appears but too
true. Mr. Grose, the Richmond Herald, and his contemporary, gives the following circumstance, as proof of his readiness to catch
at any time an opportunity of imposing on the unwary :—“Walking one day through the streets of London, he passed by the
house of Mr. Stainbank, a rich merchant, over whose door he saw an achievement or hatchment, on which were painted three
castles, somewhat like those borne in the arms of Portugal. He went immediately home and wrote a short note, begging to see Mr.
Stainbank on very particular business. The gentleman came, when Warburton, with a great deal of Seeming concern, told him
that the Portuguese ambassador had been with him, and directed him to commence a prosecution against him for assuming the
royal arms of Portugal, and, besides, meant to exhibit a complaint against him in the House of Lords for a breach of privilege.
Mr. Stainbank, terrified at the impending danger, begged his advice and assistance, for which he promised to reward him
handsomely. Warburton, after some consideration, said he had hit on a method of bringing him out of a very ugly scrape, which
was that he should purchase a coat of arms, which he would devise for him as like as possible to the achievement, and that he
would show it to the ambassador, and confirm its being the legal coat of arms, and say that the similitude complained of was owing
* These notices of the old halls are derived from Notitia Cestriensis, notes by the Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 29-31.
- #umbret of Šalforn—33ttru parish. 527
to the blunder of the painter. The arms were granted in due form, and paid for, when Warburton, over and above his share of the
#40, asked and obtained a particular reward for appeasing the representative of his Portuguese majesty.” Mr. Grose adds to this
scandalous and laughable story, that “notwithstanding this and many like dirty tricks, he clearly proved the truth of that proverb
which says that ‘honesty is the best policy,” by dying a beggar.” He expired at his apartments in the College of Arms on the
11th of May 1759, aged seventy-eight, and was buried on the 17th, in the south aisle of St. Bennet's Church, Paul's Wharf. A
remarkable circumstance occurred at his funeral. Having a great abhorrence of the idea of worms crawling upon him when dead,
he ordered that his body should be enclosed in two coffins, one of lead, the other of oak ; the first he directed should be filled with
green broom, heather, or ling; and, in compliance with his desire, a quantity was brought from Epping Forrest, and stuffed
extremely close round his body. This fermenting, burst the coffin, and retarded the funeral until part of it was taken out. Mr.
Warburton was a diligent antiquary, and his manuscript collections were very great. In the “Sketch of the Materials for the
County of Chester by an F.A.S., in a letter to Thomas Falconer, esq. of Chester,” it is noticed that “his indefatigable labours have
greatly contributed to the ornament and illustration of almost every county in the kingdom. His method was, perhaps, singularly
sensible—to glean up everything, either in print or manuscript, which had the most distant relation to that particular county he
had intended to elucidate. The scattered fragments, like the Sibyl's leaves, he bound up into volumes, suitable to the size of the
papers he had collected, either folio, quarto, or octavo.” For Cheshire, alone he had five volumes. The manuscripts are parti-
cularised as comprising “A Calendar of the Manors of Cheshire, with the several fees the Lords of the said Manors paid to the Earl
of Chester, and the names and proprietors, to the year 1710, 4to.—An account of the principal Families in Cheshire, with the lands
they held in the said County, from 33 Edw. III. to 24 Henry VII., folio.—A Register of the Black Prince and Homage due to the
learl of Chester, with the names of the principal Families, Lords of Manors, Lordships, etc., from 3 Edw. III. to 29 Eliz., folio.—
A variety of Maps, Plans, and Prospects, with MS. notes, by Plot, Warburton, and others, and whatsoever is curious in the reposi-
tories of the Herald's Office, the Harleian Library, and the Office of Records, relative to the County Palatine of Chester.” He was
remarkably unfortunate in his disputes and squabbles with his brethren, by whom he was despised and detested; yet Mr. Toms,
Rouge Dragon, says, that “though his conduct was faulty, yet he was extremely ill used, especially by the younger Anstis, who
was of a violent tyrannical disposition.” That Warburton was vindictive and scurrilous, however, is undoubted.
Mr. Warburton was the author of “Vallum Romanum, or the History and Antiquities of the Roman Wall, commonly called the
Picts’ Wall, in Cumberland and Northumberland, built by Hadrian and Severus, the Roman Emperors, seventy miles in length, to keep
out the Picts and Scots, in three books, with a letter from Roger Gale on the Roman Antiquities in the North of England, the whole
illustrated with a Map and other Plates:” London, 1753, 1754, 4to.—“Roman History continued from the Second Century of the Christian
AEra to the Destruction of the Greek Empire by the Turks:” London, 1794, 12mo. These, with some prints, are the whole of his
publications; but he had also a valuable collection of old dramas, a catalogue of which, with some remarks, appear in the Gentleman’s
Magazine for September 1815. A Plan of Helston's Loch in Cornwall was engraved by Mr. Warburton, and two instruments for drawing
up tin out of the lake, invented by him, but never published. “Proposals relative to his Mines, called the Silver Mines of Penrose,” were
also among his papers. He had likewise “Notes relating to several Monasteries in Devonshire, in the handwriting of Lord William
Howard of Naworth, temp, Eliz.” His “Essex Collections” fell into the hands of Dr. Gower of Chelmsford ; and his other MSS. were
used in “Hasted’s History of Kent.” -
5
2
8
Çiſt ºffigturn of £antagüirº.
RADCLIFFE PARISH. f
&^%; one belonging to Salford.' It was the only immediate property of that king in the hundred;
*/º over the rest of the hundred of Salford he was only lord-paramount. With the neighbouring
§ º * possessions, Radcliffe was conferred on the restless and ambitious Roger de Poictou, but
yº, $º forfeited by him soon after the Domesday Survey. With the other lands between the Mersey
and the Ribble, this place remained in the crown till it was granted, in the reign of Stephen, to Ranulph de
Gernons, earl of Chester, subject to the 'feudatory claim of Roger de Mareshey, which he relinquished in
favour of Ranulph de Blundeville. The contract between De Blundeville and De Mareshey is of the date 15
Henry III. (1231), but the pedigree of the family assumes a de Radeclive anterior to the reign of Henry II,
and the name of Henry de Radeclive appears among the witnesses to the charter of Robert de Lathom, on
the foundation of Burscough priory, in the reign of Richard I.” \
In 6 Edward I. (1278), William de Radeclive was deputy to Theobald Walter, high-sheriff of the county of Lancaster; but it
appears that before this time Simon Radeclive, supposed to be the uncle of William, demised lands in this place for a term of
years to Henry de Oswaldtwissel. The connection of William de Radeclive with Theobald Walter, who as lord of Amounderness
possessed Routheclive, now Rawcliffe, has led to the supposition that the manor of Radcliffe was formerly a portion of the barony
of Kendal,” but this, on investigation, is found to be erroneous. The parish of Radcliffe, in Salford hundred, doubtless gave name
to the family of Radcliffe before that place was in the possession of the earls of Chester. In the record of fees held in the reigns of
John and Henry III., as exhibited in the Testa de Nevill, William de Radeclive occurs in the Inquisicio Comitatus Lancastr", fol.
401-405, where he is said to hold by 6s. a carucate of land of the fee of Ranulf Fitz-Roger's heir, a ward in the custody of Eustace
Fitz-Moreton, for the king, besides twelve bovates of land in Edgworth. In 30 Henry III. (1246) Adam de Radeclive petitioned
against Roger de Oswaldtwisel for the lands demised in Radclive, for a term of years, by his grandfather, of whom he was the heir.
In 4 Edward I. (1276), Richard de Radclyve had a writ of novel disseisin, and held lands, etc., in Tottington, of the fee of Roger de
Montebegon; this Richard accompanied the king in his wars in Scotland, and obtained from him a charter for free warren in his
manors of Radcliffe and Querndone, dated from Strevelin, 32 Edward I.4 (1304). Sir John Radclyve of Ordsal, a younger son of this
Sir Richard, accompanied Edward III. in his wars in France, and introduced the honour of knighthood into the family in 1347. The
Radcliffes enjoyed the privilege of free warren and free chase in the territories of the duchy, and held at various times the offices
of seneschal and minister of the forests of Bowland and Blackburnshire; and the stewardship of Rossendale also devolved upon
them. The chiefs of the family, as well as several collateral branches, filled the station of high-sheriff in the county in successive
reigns; a rank which, in the early period of our history, was equal to that of lord-lieutenant. Ralph de Radclyffe, the son of Richard,
dying without issue before 5 Edward III. (1331), bequeathed his manors of Radcliffe, etc., to his uncle, William de Radclyffe, of
Radcliffe tower, called the Great William, lord of Edgeworth and Oswaldtwisel, who became Seised of Culcheth in 20 Edward I.
(1292), in right of his wife Margaret, one of the two daughters and co-heiresses of Gilbert de Culcheth.”
James Radclyffe of Radclif Tower had letters patent, dated at Pontefract Castle, 15th August, 4 Henry IV. (1403), conveying
a licence to enclose his manor-house of Radclif, held in chief of the king as of the duchy of Lancaster, with walls of stone and
mortar, and likewise to rebuild within the same walls a certain hall with two towers, and to kernel and embattle the walls, hall,
and towers, and to hold the same as a fortalice to himself and his heirs for ever." Richard Radclyffe, in the fourth descent from
this James, in 15 Henry VII. (1499-1500), settled his estates upon his brothers John and Roger, and their male issue, with
remainder over to Robert, son of John Baron Fitzwalter, and his heirs; with remainder to Thomas Radcliffe, lord of the manor of
Framesden, in the county of Suffolk. The Radcliffes, Barons Fitzwalter, descended from Sir John, the second son of James above-
mentioned ; and the Framesden branch from Henry Radcliffe, the eighth son ; John Radcliffe died without legitimate male issue ;
his brother, Roger Radcliffe, left another John, who died a minor in 1518; and Robert, son of John, Baron Fitzwalter, his cousin
and next heir, succeeded to the manor of Radcliffe at the age of thirty. In 1529 Robert was created earl of Sussex, and in 1538 he
presented Robert Assheton, acolyte, to the church of Radcliffe. The grandson of Robert, Thomas the third earl of Sussex, lord
president of the north, sold Radcliffe to Andrew Barton of Smithells Hall, and died in 1583. This earl was succeeded by his
brother Henry, whose son Robert, the fifth earl, survived all his legitimate issue, and conferred the manors of Attleborough,
Henham, and Debden upon his natural daughter Jane, then married to Sir Alexander Radcliffe of Ordsal, son of Sir Alexander,
who was one of the knights created by Queen Elizabeth on the destruction of the Spanish Armada. The manor of Radcliffe
remained in the family of Barton till it was conveyed in marriage by Grace, daughter and heiress of Sir Thomas Barton, about 1632,
to Henry Bellasye, M.P., eldest son of Thomas, Wiscount Fauconberg, and was sold by the first earl, about 1722, to James Whalley
* Domesday Book, Salford Hundred.—RADCLIFFE is one of the few
places in Salford Hundred, only four in number, mentioned in
Domesday Book.
* Cartular. de Burscough, fo. 56 a, in the Duchy Office.
3 Rawcliffe was called Routheclive and Roucheclive in the Testa,
de Nevill, fo. 398, 401, 403 b, and 411; and Roucelive in 20
Edward I., Placita de Quo Warranto, Rot. 4, d. Lanc. ; and Raude-
clif by Leland, in the reign of Henry VII. Itin. vol. v. fo. 84, p.
92. He also speaks of the Raudeclifs of Wimmerlow ; but the
Orthography of ancient names is no guide to the situation of places.
4 Rot. Chart. 32 Edward I. mem. 17.
* This William is mentioned in Birch's MS. Feodarium [? 1351-
1361] as holding the manor of Radclif by annual homage and ser-
vice for ward of Lancaster Castle, at the term of St. Martin, 2s. 6d. ;
for [sac-fee] at the four terms, by the service of half-a-fee, and the
tenth part of one knight's fee.
* “The king, &c., greeting, Know ye, that of our special grace we
have granted and licensed, for us and our heirs, as much as in us
is, to our beloved esquire, James de Radcliffe, that he his manor-
house of Radcliffe (which is held of us as of the Honor of Lan-
caster, in capite, as it is said) with walls of stone and lime [i.e.
mortar] to enclose anew, and within these walls a certain hall, with
two towers, of stone and lime in like manner to make anew ; and
those walls, hall, and towers, so made, to kernel and embattle
[“ kernellare et battelare”]. And the manor-house so enclosed, with
the hall and towers aforesaid so kernelled and embattled, for a cer-
tain fortalice he may hold to him and his heirs for ever, without
any accusation or impediment of us or our heirs, or our officers, or
those of our said heirs whatsoever. In testimony whereof, we have
caused these our letters to be made patent. Witness the king at
the Castle of Pontefract, on the 15th day of August [1403], by the
king himself.”—Patents of 4 Hen. IV. (1403) p. 2. m. 11.



#umbren of Šalforn—33atcliffe parish. .529
of Sparth, esq., and Christopher Baron of Oswaldtwisle, gentleman, in equal moieties. Both moieties seem to have been purchased
by Thomas, earl of Wilton, for in 1809 the whole belonged to the earl, the manor being then described as co-extensive with the
parish, and the earl entitled to all the soil and royalties in the commons of the manor. The manor is now in possession of his
lordship's descendant, Thomas Egerton, second earl of Wilton, second son of the first marquis of Westminster;" who holds a yearly
court-baron here on the first Friday in April. -
• Sir Thomas Barton, knight, held the manor of Radcliffe 12 Charles I. (1636). Thomas Barton of Smithells, esq., had an only
daughter and heiress, Grace, married to Henry Bellasye, Son and heir of Thomas, Wiscount Fauconberg, whose son, Thomas, the
second Wiscount, married Mary, the daughter of Oliver Cromwell, lord protector, in 1657. About the year 1722, Thomas, first Earl
Fauconberg of the new creation, sold the manor of Radcliffe, in two equal moieties, to James Whalley of Sparthe, and Christopher
Baron of Oswaldtwisle, for £3700. In the early part of the present century one moiety (or probably the whole manor) was sold
by Sir James Whalley Smythe Gardiner to Lord Grey de Wilton for upwards of £16,000.
The manor of Radcliffe consists of 2666 statute acres, and the remainder of the land in the parish (which
has a total area of 2466 statute acres, and a population in 1861 of 8838), is possessed by the widow of the
late Radcliffe, esq. of Crosby, in the parish of Sefton, a descendant of that branch of the ancient
family which was residing at the “Bridge, near Radcliffe, in 1664.” The parish is ecclesiastically in the
archdeaconry and deanery of Manchester. -
The name of Radcliffe is Saxon, derived from a cliff of red rock on the south side of the Irwell, below
the confluence of the Roch, and opposite to the village of Red, or Radcliffe. The oldest form of the name
was Rade-clive. The Norman Conquest introduced much of the French language ; hence the appellation
de Rugemont was often given to this village, and used also as the surname of several members of the Radcliffe
family in the early periods of English history. This cliff still exists; and, after having a thousand years ago
given name to the parish, and subsequently to one of the most ancient and noble families of Lancashire, is
now (1833) worked as a stone-quarry. The Roman vicinal road from Manchester to Ribchester passes through
this parish, a portion of which yet retains the name of “Blackburn Street.”
Radcliffe church is a low pile of considerable antiquity, about the age, as Dr. Whitaker conjectures, of
Henry IV., and coeval with the rebuilding of Radcliffe Tower. The architecture of the most ancient part is
Norman ; and an ancient manuscript, preserved at Radcliffe, carries its age to the year 1282, but the omis-
sion of the name in Pope Nicholas's ecclesiastical valuation in 1291 renders this antiquity more than doubtful.
The nave is divided from the side aisles by two arches on each side, Supported by massive plain columns,
bound by a simple fillet. The roof is sustained by carved squares of Oak, with tracery at the intersections.
The tower was rebuilt in 1665, as appears from an incised date ; with the arms of Beswicke of Manchester,
afterwards and now of Pike House, and the words “Carolus Beswicke, rector,” still remaining upon it. The
tower is disproportionately large, to accommodate the six bells with which it is furnished.” The south tran-
sept, or, as it is commonly called, the “Sun Chapel,” is a chantry chapel, which, from its style of architecture,
appears to have been founded about the middle of the fifteenth century, at which time it was not unusual to
throw out chantries in the form of transepts. A north transept was added in 1846, the south porch removed,
and a west doorway opened through the tower. All the seats in the nave and transepts were renewed
of substantial old oak, and are now free to the parishioners. The east, South, and north windows of the
chancel were filled with richly-stained glass; the first being an obituary window in memory of Thomas
Hutchinson, esq., and the others being presented by a lady. The chancel-walls have been faced with terra-
cotta disposed in figured quarries, and a reredos of good design has been added. These judicious improve-
ments were effected under the superintendence of the Rev. Nathaniel Milne, the rector, at a cost of nearly
£1000, towards which sum he was a liberal contributor. In removing Sundry layers of paint from the pulpit
and desk, the following dates and initials were revealed, beautifully inlaid in coloured wood:—On the first
panel of the pulpit, “1606,” with a mullet beneath, the armorial cognisance of the Asshetons; on the second
panel, a boar's head erased, their crest, with the initials S. R. A. (Sir Richard Assheton); on the third is
the Assheton mullet, and the letters L. S., P., R. W., probably denoting Leonard Shaw and Rob. Walkden,
who were rectors during the alterations made early in the seventeenth century; on the fourth panel, the
initials I. I. with a mullet between them ; and on the fifth the letters T. H., I. M., probably the initials of
the churchwardens. The reading-desk appears to have been the gift of Charles Beswicke, M.A., the rector,
from the initials R., C. B., and the date 1665, still remaining. As a border round the upper part of the desk,
is the following text, in old English letters —“All my words that I shall speak unto thee, receive into thine
heart, and hear with thine ears.-Ezekiel iii. chap. 10 verse.” The chancel and the vestry were rebuilt in
1817, the former at the cost of the patron of the advowson, the earl of Wilton, and the latter out of the
parochial rates; the east side of the church, which is also modern, was probably built at the cost of the
parish. In one window to the north are the arms of Radcliffe, and, in the same window the head of a queen
crowned with an ancient coronet; another window, with the same aspect, is enriched with oak-leaves and
acorns, surmounted with the head of a king wearing his diadem, the portrait of which resembles that of
Edward III., but not in the slightest degree that of Henry VI., though it is true that the Radcliffes were zealous
* Notitia Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 158. the requisite additional sum having been supplied by subscription,
2 Barritt’s MSS. this useful index of the progress of time was supplied.—Rasbotham's
3 Till 1785 there was no clock in the steeple of Radcliffe church, MSS. vol. i. p. 241.
but the late Sir Ralph Assheton having bequeathed forty guineas * Notitia Cestriensis. Note by the Rev. Canon Raines, ii.
towards the expense of furnishing the town with a public clock, and 159. * * - - -
‘.. - 3 Y
530 Qſìje #igforg of 3Lancagüire. ,
Lancastrians. In a window to the east is a boar's head in a shield, placed there, no doubt, since the connection
of the Asshetons with the manor and church of Radcliffe ; and in a window to the west is a painting of St.
John the Evangelist, in a white vest and a blue robe, his cap, palm, hair, and glory all a bright yellow, with
an almost obliterated background, wherein is seen a tower.
s
ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST.
Time is rapidly effacing these works of early art ; and the monument of James de Radcliffe, the founder
of this tower, and his lady, formerly the attraction of the chancel," has now disappeared. The late venerable
self-taught antiquary Barritt, of Manchester, in his unpublished MSS., has described and sketched this monu-
ment, on which he remarks: “In the chancel of Radcliffe church is an alabaster stone greatly decayed; on
it are the traces of a knight in armour and his lady. At the upper part of the stone are two escutcheons—on
one the arms of Radcliffe, the other defaced. The Latin legend is in old black character, but almost mouldered
away, not a word to be made out, except the remains of “Jacobi Radcliff.” (the supposed owner of Radcliffe),
which words, to all appearance, must shortly perish. No date was to be found. The subjoined sketch will
convey a tolerably correct idea of this ancient monumental tablet:”—
:-
E-Sºº.
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* Before the monument disappeared, the country people, from fragments, which they kept in their houses, or wore about their
a superstitious veneration, were accustomed to break from it. Small persons as amulets.







































#umbret of Šalford—Ratcliffe parish. 531
The living of Radcliffe church is a rectory, valued in the Liber Regis at £21 : 0 : 5. The patronage of
the advowson does not appear, at any time since the Reformation, to have been in any of the Radcliffe
family. It passed from the Bartons to the Asshetons of Middleton by purchase; and the latter family presented
to the living, from the time of Queen Elizabeth, until it was conveyed in marriage, in 1769, by Eleanor,
younger daughter and co-heiress of Sir Ralph Assheton, Bart., to Sir Thomas Egerton, Bart, created Baron
Grey de Wilton, Wiscount Grey and Wilton, and earl of Wilton, in 1801, in whose grandson, the present
earl of Wilton, it is now vested.
LIST of the RECTORs of RADCLIFFE, from the year 1583 to the present time, principally from the Register of the Ecclesiastical Court.
Date of Institution. RectorS. Patrons. Cause of Vacancy.
Feb. 4, 1583, Leonard Shawe. -
May 24, 1624. Robert Walkeden Robert Holt, John Greenacres, and Robert | Death of Leonard Shawe.
Wood, for this turn, patrons
Robert Osbaldeston
Feb. 3, 1637.
Peter Shawe
Thomas Pyke
Charles Beswick .
Sir Ralph Ashton
Death of Robert Osbaldeston.
Ejected 1662.
Died 1697.
June 8, 1698. Charles Pinckney # * DO. . . Death of Charles Beswick.
Jan. 23, 1699. Roger Dale º º * ge DO. Deposition of Charles Pinckney.
Oct. 5, 1716. Edward King . g e º Do. Death of Roger Dale.
March 18, 1719. | Henry Lester . e & e IDO. Death of Edward King.
July 14, 1724. | William Lowston * & § Do. Death of Henry Lester.
April 6, 1757. Richard Asshton . e sº * DO. Death of William Lowston.
Resignation of Richard Assheton.
Oct. 15, 1757. Richard Wroe 1 . & g g Do
Oct. 1, 1784. | Thomas Foxley º
1838. N. Milne, M.A. .
Thos. Lord Grey de Wilton
Earl of Wilton.
Resignation of R. Wroe Walton.
The parish registers commence in 1559, in which year there were 10 baptisms, 9 marriages, and 27
burials; in 1560, 17 baptisms, 8 marriages, and 4 burials; while in 1831 there were 144 baptisms, 29
marriages, and 91 burials; and, in 1832, 161 baptisms, 32 marriages, and 93 burials. We find here, as in
others of the parishes of Salford hundred, Edward Hopwood, esq., the magistrate, publishing the banns of
marriage in the year 1655. The rectory house is an unoccupied and dilapidated building, situated in the
midst of trees, which gave to it all the gloom, without any of the picturesque variety, of judiciously-formed
plantations. In 1819, an episcopal chapel, on the model of an eastern pagoda, dedicated to St. Thomas, was
erected near Radcliffe Bridge, by the Countess Grosvenor, now marchioness of Westminster, at a cost of £5000.
This chapel, which reflects honour upon the architect, Mr. James Wyatt of London, was consecrated on the
18th of November 1819, and opened on the 11th of June 1820.
º, There are no dissenting chapels in this parish, but the Methodists have a room at Radcliffe Close, opened
about the year 1800, and appropriated to the purpose of preaching. In Pilkington, in the parish of Prestwich,
on the opposite bank of the Irwell, there are Methodist, Independent, Unitarian, and Swedenborgian places
of public worship. The founders of the Presbyterian, now Unitarian chapel, in Pilkington Stand, were prin-
cipally the followers of Mr. Pyke, the rector of Radcliffe, ejected in 1662. Many of the Nonconformist
ministers who resorted to Manchester as a place of refuge, that not being a corporation town, supplied the
neighbouring villages, and Stand was amongst the number. The chapel was not built till 1695, a barn in
Higher Lane being in the meantime used as a preaching-house. The first minister was Mr. Robert Eaton,
who died in Manchester in 1701, and was succeeded by Mr. Samuel Eason, who died in 1710. Mr. Joshua
Heywood followed him, and was at Stand in 1715; Mr. William Harrison was his successor in 1730, who,
on removing to Burton in 1637, was succeeded by Mr. William Bond, who, after preaching here upwards of
forty years, was succeeded by Mr. W. D. Cooper, on whose removal to Gorton in 1788, Mr. Awbrey became
the minister. He was succeeded by Mr. Thomas Smith in 1795, who removed to Park Lane in 1811, and
was succeeded by Mr. Arthur Dean.
The charities of Radcliffe are few, and to a small amount. The particulars of Guest's charity have already been stated. The
tenant of the estate in Buerdsill and Castleton pays yearly £9, being a moiety of his rent, to the rector of Radcliffe, who, after
setting apart £1, disposes of the residue in the purchase of linen, which is distributed by him amongst poor persons of the parish
at Christmas. The Rev. Dr. Wroe bequeathed, in 1718, £10 to the poor of Radcliffe ; and the Rev. William Lawson, in 1757,
bequeathed the same amount; these two sums were laid out, it is presumed, towards the improvement of the estate purchased with
Guest's charity, as the sum of 20s, part of the rent set apart, as above stated, is annually given in money to poor persons attending
divine service on Christmas Day, as the produce of Dr. Wroe's and Mr. Lawson's gifts.” There is also a bequest of £5 by William
Yates.
Radcliffe Tower, now in ruins, was anciently one of the most considerable manorial residences in the
county of Lancaster. Of the antiquity of this tower we have no precise information, but it appears that
Richard Radcliffe, high-sheriff of the county in 32 Edward III. (1358), was of “Radcliffe Tower,” as was also
1 T)r. Wroe afterwards took the name of Walton. * XIX. Report of Commissioners of Charities, p. 266.
532. (Liſt #igtorg of £antagijire.
his predecessor William de Radecliue, one of the knights of the Grand Inquest, 13 John (1211-12). In 4
Henry IV. (1403), the king's license, already noticed, shows that this mansion was rebuilt and embattled.
The tower was built with stone strongly grouted, with a door communicating with the house. On the top
tower, beneath the castellated rampart, at a depth of about four feet, was a covering of lead, which has long
since disappeared, and its place is now occupied by a Sycamore-tree, growing out of the ruins. Over the
great entrance-door of the tower, from each of the three storeys, is a funnel, resembling an ancient chimney,
with which these manorial fortresses were furnished, in order that the domestic garrison might resist the
entrance of an enemy by pouring upon him boiling pitch, or casting down offensive missiles. Generally these
strongholds of the border counties were enclosed by a moat, but there are no remaining traces of such
external protection at Radcliffe Tower, and it is probable that none existed. So late as 1818, Dr. Whitaker
says of this place—
“The old hall (adjoining the tower) is 42 feet 2 inches in length, and in one part 26 feet and in another 28 feet in width.
The two massive principals, which support the roof, are the most curious specimens of carved wood-work I have ever seen. The
broadest piece of timber is 2 feet 7 inches by 10 inches. A wall-plate on the outside of One beam, from end to end, measures
2 feet by 10 inches. The walls are finished at the Squares with a moulded cornice of oak. The pillar at the right has neither
capital nor moulding, and appears to have been inserted at a later period, when the hall underwent a repair. On the left side of the
hall are the remains of a very curious window-frame of Oak, wrought in Gothic tracery, but square at the top. Near the top of the
hall, on the right, are the remains of a doorway, opening into what was once a staircase, and leading to a large chamber above the
kitchen, the approach to which was by a door of massy oak, pointed at the top.”
In one of his manuscript memorandum-books, the late Mr. Thomas Barritt (who died in 1820) sketched
the remains of the tower and hall as they stood in his time. The hall buildings seem to have then formed
two sides of a quadrangle, the tower standing at the corner or commencement of a third side. Its ruins
were then as high as the roof of the hall; and both show dilapidation and modern repairs.
This “hall” in 1833 was used as a hay-loft and cow-shed. Nothing visible remains of the moulded
cornice of oak, the massy principals, ornamented pillars, the pointed doorway, or the curious oak window-
frame mentioned by the learned doctor. The principal part of the edifice, which stands within a few yards
of the church, near a cluster of cottages, is a neglected ruin, and the remains of what may be properly called
the tower partake of the general dilapidation. All the fabric except the tower is of brick, enclosed in
squares of wood; and the large chamber above the kitchen, originally 18 feet by 18 feet 2 inches, has been
converted into two rooms, to render it more suitable to the accommodation of its present inmates. The west
and south sides of the quadrangle still remaining are supported by substantial buttresses; but where these
supports were wanting, the walls have fallen; and part of the materials, from the east and the north sides of
the building, as well as of the tower, have been used in the erection of a neighbouring corn-mill. Since
1835 the tower has been almost entirely demolished. Mr. Samuel Bamford thus treats of the old hall and
tower, in 1844:— -
“This interesting relic of old English domestic architecture was taken down many years ago, to make room for a row of
cottages for the work-people of Messrs. Bealey and Sons, bleachers. It is understood that the earl of Wilton, to whom the place
belonged, sold the materials to the firm, and let the land to them. . . . . This venerable pile was highly interesting to all who
loved to gaze on the relics of other days; and it was probably calculated to convey a more correct idea of the rude but strongly-
built habitations of our forefathers, than any other object to which the curious in this neighbourhood had access. . . . The
materials were chiefly beams and planks of solid black oak, which, together with the simplicity of the construction, and the
rudeness of the workmanship, testified to the great age of the edifice. . . . . The square tower, or fortified part of the ancient
residence, still remains, but tottering with decay. The vaulted roof of the lower room almost hangs by a single stone, and unless
it be protected from further wanton outrage, it must soon share the fate of the hall, and leave only its name in the remembrance of
things that have been.” i
The ground to the south is called “The Park,” which extended, in the pristine glory of Radcliffe
Tower, far along the majestic vale of the Irwell, which forms the south-eastern boundary of the parish,
separating it from the parishes of Prestwich and Bury. - . -
Radcliffe was somewhat defective and antiquated in its local government till May 1866, when a local
board of health was established by order, gazetted that month, which has jurisdiction throughout the entire
parish. The river Irwell divides this parish from the hamlet of Whitefield, in the parish of Prestwich,
which hamlet has a local board of health, limited in jurisdiction to the hamlet. As to the staple industries
of Radcliffe, they include cotton-spinning and manufacturing, Small-ware manufactures, and ironworks. It is
estimated that the population of Radcliffe in 1867 was about 10,000. -
Tradition has constituted the neighbouring hamlet of Whitefield the scene of a sanguinary battle ; and
in a field called “Poor Monks' Bank,” hollows or trenches are visible, where the armies are said to have
engaged. Amongst the common people, a story is currently believed, too, that the kitchen of Radcliffe Tower
was the scene of a cruel tragedy, perpetrated by a menial on the daughter of the lord, to gratify the malice
and cupidity of a stepmother; and a red stain on the floor marks, as it is said, the place where the victim
fixed her bloody hand while her murderer perpetrated the atrocity. Although there is nothing in the
family history to support this counterpart to the footmark of the martyr George Marsh at Smithells Hall,
* Walks in South Lancashire, p. 172.
#umbret of Šalfort—itancliffe parish. 533
and although, for sixty years back at least, there has been no such relic to be found in Radcliffe Tower" as
the blood-stained flag, the tradition is not on that account the less firmly believed; and the story of “Fair
Ellen of Radcliffe” (in the Pepys black-letter collection, under the title of “Lady Isabella's Tragedy, or the
Stepmother's Cruelty”), inserted in Dr. Percy's Reliqués of Ancient English Poetry, has embodied and
perpetuated this local romance.” \
Radcliffe is one of the most diminutive parishes in the county of Lancaster; its length from east to west
is only two miles and a half, and its breadth from South to north two miles; the area of the parish being
2466 statute acres. This parish has no dependent townships. It is ecclesiastically in the archdeaconry and
deanery of Manchester. The village consists of two collections of houses, called Radcliffe and Radcliffe
Bridge, the latter of which stands on both sides the river, united by a bridge of three arches, and is about
half-a-mile from the former. The population of the parish has increased from 2497 in 1801 to 8838 in
1861, partly from the fine Salubrious air, but principally from the increase of manufactures, which necessarily
attract settlers. -
The various branches of manufactures here comprehend bleaching, spinning, and calico-printing; with
nankeen, fustian, and check weaving. There is here the advantage of canal-navigation to the two important
towns of Manchester and Bolton; the Bury branch passing through Radcliffe to Bolton and Manchester; and
the East Lancashire Railway has a station at Radcliffe Bridge. -
Aspiring very laudably to the privilege of the elective franchise under the Reform Act, an unsuccessful
attempt was made in 1831, by the inhabitants of Radcliffe and Pilkington, to become attached for that pur.
pose to the borough of Bury; but though Radcliffe appears geographically in more immediate connection
with Bury than some other parts of that borough, it was judged advisable by the commissioners to adhere to
the boundary formed by the Irwell on the south, though the same rule was not observed to the west.
There is no weekly market held in this parish, but there are two unchartered fairs for wool, woollen
cloth, and pedlary; the first on the 28th and 29th of April, and the second on the 27th, 28th, and 29th of
September.
Fuel is here, as in many of the neighbouring places, abundant and cheap, and the parishioners even of
the humblest class frequently keep large fires in the winter season, as well by night as by day.
A capacious reservoir is excavated at the junction of the parishes of Radcliffe and Bury, which serves to
replenish the Bolton and Bury Canal in dry seasons, through the medium of a feeder nearly two miles in
length. These deposits for water are very common on the eminences which overlook the Irwell, and they
serve greatly to increase the utility of one of the largest manufacturing streams in the world.
RICHARD WROE, D.D., warden of the Collegiate Church of Christ in Manchester, and prebendary of Chester, was the son
of Mr. Richard Wroe, a yeoman, of the Hams, in this parish, and born there on the 21st of August 1641. He received his educa-
tion in the free grammar-school of Manchester, and was entered a student of Jesus College, Cambridge, in June 1658, where, in
1661, he took his degree of Bachelor of Arts. On the 21st July 1662 he was admitted Fellow of his college, and, in 1665, proceeded
to the degree of Master of Arts. On the 6th of May 1669 he was incorporated in the same degree in the University of Oxford, and
shortly after appointed chaplain to Dr. Pearson, bishop of Chester. In that year, on a visit of the Grand-duke of Tuscany to the
University of Oxford, he was appointed to keep a public philosophy act for his Highness's entertainment, and acquitted himself with
much applause. On the 11th of June 1672 he received his degree of Bachelor of Divinity, and was made a Fellow of the Collegiate
Church of Manchester, on petition, on the 9th of March 1675. On the 15th of March 1678 he was collated prebendary of the 5th stall
of Chester Cathedral, and was inducted to the vicarage of Bowdon, in the county of Chester. In the year 1683, on the resignation
of Dr. Stratford, he petitioned the king for the wardenship of the college of Manchester, and, having been formerly made pre-
bendary of Chester, and chaplain to the bishop, who by the statutes of the college is appointed visitor, received a Strong recom-
mendation in two letters from that prelate to Dr. Pearson, the archbishop of Canterbury. -
Notwithstanding these high testimonies to the worth and fitness of Mr. Wroe for the situation of warden, considerable delay
intervened between the time of forwarding his petition and his final appointment; the cause of which appears to have been a doubt
whether he could legally hold the wardenship with other church preferment. These doubts, however, seem to have been finally
disposed of; and the question that the wardenship of Manchester is not a cure of souls, but a dignity, was thus argued:—
“1st. He is called in the Charter and the Statutes, Guardianºs, and Praepositus Collegii, but never Rector or Vicariºs Ecclesiæ.
2d. He is onely instituted by y” Bishop of Chester, and then installed in Manchester Church without any induction; nay, there is a particular
proviso in the Statutes (that he shall not be inducted, but onely instituted, and installed), to prevent, as 'tis conceiued, all pretence of making
it a Cure. 3d. The late Warden, Mr. Heyrick, had y” Rectory of Thorneton, in Cheshire, together with his Wardenship, and never had any
dispensation as for two cures. 4th. The last Warden, Dr. Stratford, hath held it the best part of a year without any dispensation, whereas
he had left his living here in London yº next moment after his induction, had a dispensation been requisite as for two cures, 5th. Add to
this, in behalf of Mr. Wroe, yº present Petitioner, that his Vicarage of Bowdon is contiguous to Manchester; ye boundaries of ye parish
join ; and that ye Wardenship alone will scarce maintain itself in house and hospitality without some additional preferment.” -
On the settlement of this point he was inducted to the wardenship on the 1st of May 1684, and created Doctor of Divinity in
1686. On the 9th of March 1696 he was presented to the rectory of West Kirkby, in the county of Chester. Dr. Wroe died at
Manchester on the 1st of January 1717-18, and was buried in the vault below the choir in the Collegiate Church there. Dr. Wroe
was an admirable scholar, a sound divine, and a most elegant preacher. He was styled by the clergy the Chrysostom of Lancashire,
and among the common people usually had the appellation of Silver-tongued Wroe. .
He wrote “The Beauty of Unity, a Sermon on Psalm cyxxii. 1;” 1682, 4to, “Funeral Sermon of Sir Roger Bradshaigh, on Psalm
cxii. 6;” 1684, 4to. “Funeral Sermon of Mary, Countess of Warrington, on Hebrews vii. 25 ;” Lond. 1691, 4to, “Funeral Sermon
of Henry, Earl of Warrington, on Eccles. xi. 3;” 1696, 4to. “Accession Sermon on Prov. xxiv. 2;” 1704, 4to. “Sermon on Thess. iii. 10 ;”
1722, 8vo.
1 Rasbotham's MS. Collections, vol. i. p. 245. * It has been reprinted in Mr. Harland's earlier “Lancashire Ballads” (1865).
534 The history of Lancashire.
DEAN PARISH.
EAN Parish, at a very early period, was divided into manors, each of which had its distinct
lord, but he was probably sub-feudatory to the two great feudal proprietors of this part of
Lancashire—the Lacies, earls of Lincoln, and the Ferrers, earls of Derby. Middle Hulton,
where courts are held, is the chief manor, the other manors being apparently only sub-
sº infeudations, exercising no manorial rights. In 1311, Geoffrey de Worsley obtained the
lººkºº manor of Middle Hulton in exchange with Richard de Hulton; and from the Worsleys it
passed, after several intermediate descents, to Lord Chancellor Ellesmere, whose descendant, Francis, the last
duke of Bridgewater, dying without issue in 1803, devised it to his nephew, the Right Honourable Francis
Leveson Gower, afterwards Lord Francis Egerton, created Earl of Ellesmere and Wiscount Brackley in 1846.
His grandson, the third earl, still in his minority (1867), is the present lord of the manor and owner. In
20 Edward I. (1292), Henry de Lacy, being summoned on a quo warranto to inquire on what ground he
claimed free-warren in Dene, produced a charter, dated 25 Henry III. (1241), which was granted by that
monarch to Edmund de Lacy." The lords of Manchester also had possessions here, and Hollinworth has a
passage from an ancient rent-roll of the barony, which recites that “Robert de Gredley, lord of Manchester,
gave to God and the Bd. Virgin, to the abbot of Whalley and to their chappell of St. Maryden (now called Dean
Church) all that land lying neere to the sayd chappell.” “This land (says our author) is now in the tenure
of Mr. John Tilsley, minister there.” The abbots of the monastery of Cockersand, besides holding the
fortieth part of a knight's fee in West Halghton of the barony of Manchester, were themselves lords of the
manor of West Halghton, before the reign of Richard II. The demesne of the whole township of West
Halton was granted by Henry de Seston, clerk, to the abbey of Cockersand, by a charter without date, but
which is cited in the confirmation made by Richard in the seventh and eighth year of his reign (1384); *
and in case of quo warranto, the abbot produced a charter, by which he claimed exemption from certain fines
and amerciaments in his abbey-lands of Halghton, Asphull, Bolton, Haliwall, Longeworth, Ferneworth, and
other places within the county, but the jury returned a verdict that those lands were “geldable,” and not
exempted by the charter." The manor of West Halghton belonged to the abbey of Cockersand until the
dissolution of monasteries, when it passed into the hands of James Browne by purchase, as appears from
several actions in the duchy court, in which he is plaintiff, both as lord of the manor and as claiming by
purchase from Henry VIII." Another religious house, the hospital of St. John of Jerusalem in England,
laid claim in 20 Edward I. (1292) to the exercises of feudal principles in Farmeworth." The manor of
West Halghton was held by the same family in 11 Charles I. (1635).’
Hulton, now divided into three townships, gave name to a family of whom mention frequently occurs in the reign of King
John ; but their principal possessions at this period do not seem to have lain in this parish. Jarnord or Jarnochio de Hulton, and
Richard de Hulton, held of the king the sixth part of a knight's fee in Penyelton,” and the former in the first year of that reign (1199-
1200) had a charter of license for an exchange of lands in the town of Penelton, Barton, and the wood of Kereshall,” Marferth de
Hulton held four bovates of land in chief of the king in Pennelton, by service of the sixth part of a knight's fee, and Elyas
Pennilbury held a bovate of this Marferth for four shillings.10 The degree of affinity in which the Hultons, sometimes called
Hilton, stood is perplexed, but, still speaking of the same land, the heir of Richard de Hilton held the sixth part of a knight's
fee in Penilton of the fee of the earl of Ferrers, who held it in chief of the king.” In 15 Edward II. (1321-22) we find Richard
de Hulton holding of the baron of Manchester one-third of a knight's fee in Rumworth and Lostoc, and one-twentieth in Midle-
wood in Hulton. In the reign of Elizabeth, the three Hultons seem to have been held in close connection, for in the Harleian
MSS, there is a letter from the justices of peace to the constables of the three Hultons, dated 30 April 1588, commanding them
“with all speede to collect the somme of iv. xiijº. x4. latelie imposed upon the said towne for the furnishinge of certen Souldiers
for her Ma”. Seruice into Scotlande. And to geve the proper Warninge to have their Souldiers mustered at Wygan, before
Sir Edward Stanley.” *.
Farneworth, Heton under the Forest, Westhalchton, Rumworth, Lostock, Asphull, Midlewood-in-Hulton, and Longworth,
were anciently classed in the Upper Bailiwick of Manchester. The forest of Horewich was guarded by three foresters, who,
according to the Extent of the barony of Manchester (1322), were to be supported from land in Lostock, Rumworth, Heton-under-
the-forest, Longworth, Anderton, etc. This forest belonged to the Gresleys, perhaps from their first becoming lords of Manchester,”
* Placit de Quo Warr. apud Lanc. 20 Edw. I. Rot. 9. In the 6 See the case in the history of Bolton Parish.
Chapter-House, Westminster. * Duchy Records, vol. xxvii. Inq. post. Mort. 11 Car. II. In, 2.
* Mancuniens. MS., fol. 6. See also Whalley Abbey Coucher 8 Testa de Wevill, fol. 408.
Book, i. 61. 9 Rot. Chari, 1 Joh. mem. 3.
* Cart. de An. 7 and 8 Ric, II, n. 1. Dugd. Monast, tom. vi. 10 Testa de Wevill, fol. 405.
par. ii. num. 2, Ellis's Edit. 11 Ibid, fol. 397.
4 Placii. 20 Edw. I. Rot, 7. 12 Harl. MSS. cod. 1926, fo. 83 b.
* Duchy Pleas, 1 Eliz. vol. i. B. n. 8–3 Eliz. vol. ii. B. n. 3. 18 Robt. de Grelley Esc. de 38 Hen. III. n. 10.


#umbret of $alfort—Peart 33arisiſ, 535
but Heton subtus Herewiche was one of the fees held of the Honor of Tuttebury, and is enumerated in the inquisition held on the
death of Henry duke of Lancaster, in 35 Edward III. (1361).” According to Leland,” wild boars, bulls, and falcons, for the
chase, the ring, and the falconry, were bred in times past in the park of Blakele, and no doubt in the woods of Horwich, which
were sixteen miles in circumference, and had their ačries of eagles, herons, and hawks. From lack of wood the “blow-shoppes”
decayed at Blakely, but at Horwich, where wood was abundant, they must have been in full vigour. In 24 Henry VII. (1508) an
inquisition on Richard Hulton, an idiot, showed that he had the manor of Farneworth.3 In 3 Henry VIII. (1511) Sir Thomas
West, knight, lord de la Warre, claimed his right, as lord of the manor of Manchester, to have the wardship and custody of the
lands, tenements, and appurtenances of William Hulton, in Ferneworth, Denton, Bolton, and Harpurhey, 4 In a case of pleadings,
12 Elizabeth (1570), — Hulton is stated to be seised in fee of the manors of Farnworth and Rumworth, and of lands in Lostocke,
Kersley, Dean, Lower Hulton, Myddle Hulton, etc.” An inquisition of 15 Elizabeth (1573), states Adam Hulton to hold the
manor of Overhulton, Haughton, etc.," and in 15 James I. (1617), James Anderton held Lostock, Horwich, the rectory of Eccles,
the chapel of Dean, Romworth, etc.7
The parish of Dean, as it now exists, is embosomed in the parish of Bolton. Dean parish, which is ten
miles and a half in length from S.E. to W.N.W., and eight miles in breadth from N. to S., comprising 19,340
statute acres (with a population in 1861 of 35,746), consists of seven townships and three chapelries—
namely:

Area in Acres. | Population in 1861. Area in Acres. | Population in 1861.
Farnworth . e 1450 8720 Horwich, C. . ſe 3230 34.71
Heaton . e e 1630 955 Halliwell * * 2320 5953
Hulton, Little, C. . 1470 3390 Kersley . g & 900 5003
Hulton, Middle . 1280 790 Rumworth . º 1300 1861
Hulton, Over . e 1300 447 Westhoughton, C. . 4460 5156
The Croal flows from the centre of this parish to Bolton, and the Irwell waters its south-eastern boundary.
The name den, a valley, is obviously Saxon, and expresses not inaptly the situation of the township of
Rumworth, in which stands the church of Dean. The Testa de Nevill, accounting Rumworth as one of
Thomas de Gresley's fees, says that Richard le Perpund holds the third part of a knight's fee in Rumheworth.
A record preserved by Dr. Kuerden states that Albert Gredley, the younger, gave to Thomas de Perpoint
three carucates of land in Reuington and Lostoc for the third part of a knight's fee, and his heirs now
hold them. In 22 James I. (1624), an inquisition was taken at Wigan by the “commissioners ad pios usos”
before Dr. John Bridgman, bishop of Chester, respecting a legacy bequeathed to the poore of Rumworth,” and
on the 4th of November, the same year, another inquisition was taken by the same parties concerning
misemployed moneys given towards a schoole at Dean Church." William Ford Hulton, esq. of Hulton Park,
is now lord of Rumworth, and Sir Charles Henry Tempest, bart., is the chief owner of the soil in this
township. -
Though there are seven townships in this parish, Middle Hulton is the only manor in which courts are
held. The present lord is the earl of Ellesmere, who holds a court-baron twice a-year, but not at fixed
pèriods. The following is a list of lordships in this parish, and the owners, without holding courts, possess
in some cases the entire property, and in others claim chief rents and waste :—KERSLEY, Hon. Rob. W.
Stapleton-Cotton, in right of his wife, Charlotte Anne, only daughter of the late John Fletcher, esq. of Peel
Hall; RUMWORTH, Sir Charles Henry Tempest, bart. ; OVER HULTON, William Ford Hulton, esq. of Hulton
Park; WESTHOUGHTON, Lord Skelmersdale and others; HORWICH, Chas. Joseph Stonor, esq. of Anderton;
HEATON, Sir Chas. H. Tempest ; SMITHELLs, in Halliwell, Peter Ainsworth, esq.; LITTLE HULTON or HULTON,
the earl of Ellesmere. Middle Hulton has been attached to the Worsley estates since 1311, when Geoffrey of
Worsley received it in exchange for other lands from Richard of Hulton, from whom it passed successively,
through the Worsleys, Masseys, Stanleys of Holt, Breretons of Malpas, and Egertons of Ridley, to Lord
Wiscount Chancellor Brackley, who was succeeded by John Egerton, created earl of Bridgewater May 27,
1617, and whose descendant, Scroope, became duke of Bridgewater June 18, 1720, which title descended
to Francis, the last duke, with whom it expired the 3d of March 1803. Dying without issue, he devised it
to his nephew, Lord Francis Egerton, created earl of Ellesmere and Viscount Brackley in 1846. The present
owner is his grandson, the third earl. -
The Roman road from Blackrod to Manchester passes by “Street-Yate,” in Little Hulton. A great
number of places here bear Saxon names, and in Westhoughton there is a small elevation called Gallows Hill,
where, no doubt, in early times, the privilege of gallows was exercised.
The church of Dean, dedicated to St. Mary, stands on a gentle declivity, commanding a valley watered
1 Esc. 35 Edw. III. Par. 1. num. 122. - * Duchy Records, vol. xiii. Inq. post Mort. 15 Eliz. n. 4.
2 Itin. vol. vii. fo. 57, p. 47. 7 77.2 g
3 Duchy Records, vol. iá, Inq. post. Mort. 24 Henry VII. n. 26. 8 Ibid. Vol. xxi. Inq. post * 15 Jac. T. n. 63.
4 Duchy Pleas, vol. iv. W. n. 1. Harl, MSS. cod. 2176, fo. 30 b.
3 Ibid. vol. xiii. 12 Eliz. H. n. 2. 9 Ibid. fo. 41.
536 (ſiſt #istorm of £ancašijire.
by a rivulet, which runs not far below it to the south. It is a venerable rusticated edifice, consisting of an
embattled body with a low projecting wing in front, extending beneath the north windows of the orchestra,
and terminating in the porch. The small antique tower is surmounted by a pointed roof and vane. The
interior is light and simple, and the congregation are chiefly seated on Oaken benches. Plain columns, bearing
pointed arches, and lightly fluted, separate the nave from the side aisles. The roof is ornamented by square
wood-work, clustered at the angles. This is supposed to be the original church, and the date of A.D. 1510 is
inscribed on one of its principal timbers. Two new galleries, on the north and south sides of the church,
were erected by subscription in 1833. As early as the beginning of the thirteenth century, Robert de Grelle
having died in 12 Edward I. (1284), there was a burial-ground and chapel here called St. Maryden (St. Mary's
Dean), and it appears from a deed of gift, without date, made by Thomas de Perpoint to the abbey of Stan-
law, that he gave all his lands adjoining the chapel and its cemetery to that monastery; and that Robert de
Grelle, lord of Manchester in 4 Edward I. (1275), confirmed the same. The boundaries were—“From the
cemetery of the chapel direct to the Kirkbroc, then following the Sellbroc to the Mabelbroc, following the
fosse to the hedge from the cemetery of the chapel on the east to my cemetery.”
In the Valor of Pope Nicholas IV. in 1288, no mention is made of Dean church. Its value in 1834
was £213; in 1867, £250. Its registers begin in 1637. As late as the reign of Edward TV. this place
was a chapelry of Eccles, as appears from the compotus of the treasurer of Whalley Abbey, to which they
were both subject ; but in 1538 Dean had obtained the rank of an independent parish, and in the Liber Regis
of that date it is returned as a discharged vicarage valued at £4. On the dissolution of Whalley Abbey, the
advowson of the church and vicarage of Dean became vested in the crown. It is ecclesiastically in the arch-
deaconry and deanery of Manchester. By the aid of the episcopal registers at Chester, we are enabled to
carry up its incumbents, under royal patronage, to the period of the Reformation. 't -
WICARs of DEAN, with the dates of their Institution and the cause of each successive Wacancy.
Date of Institution. WiCars. On whose Presentation. Cause of Vacancy.
Feb. 20, 1542. William Rothwell? . gº Henry VIII. . * * ºf Death of last incumbent.
Oct. 12, 1575. David Dee . e º & The Queen . º º wº Death of last incumbent.
May 31, 35 Eliz. Lancelot Clegge.
[1593.]
March, 1636. Richard Hardy . º e The King.
1644. || Alexander Norris. -
John Tildesley & e º • . Ejected 1662.
1663. John Angier e g * The King.
Nov. 22, 1673. Richard Hatton3 . g ſº The King.
Jan. 13, 1712. James Rothwell . º g Queen Anne . º g * Death of Richard Hatton.
June 2, 1767. | Thomas Withnell & e The King . g º * Death of James Rothwell.
Jan. 30, 1776. Robert Lathom g e Do. * & & tº Death of last incumbent.
April 6, 1818. Thomas Brocklebank . & Do. * g sº & Death of Robert Lathom.
Jan. 16, 1830. Edward Girdlestone . * Do. e & & & Resignation of Thomas Brocklebank.
1855. | F. H. Thicknesse g e The Lord Chancellor. Resignation of Edward Girdlestone.
Several heraldic emblems of the Hultons and the Yateses appear upon banners and glass in this church.
A venerable yew-tree in the churchyard is much admired. The parish registers, which commence in 1637,
present the following returns indicative of the progress of population here for two centuries:—
A. D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials. A. D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials.
1637 g º & 27 I5 3I. 1701 g e tº 74 16 63
1638 e g e I0 17 89 1831 g * g 164 192 252
1700 w º it. 90 27 77 1832 g º & I75 215 . . 240
Exclusive of the church, which was enlarged in 1831, there are in this parish five episcopal places of
worship and thirteen dissenting chapels. The preaching of John Bradford and George Marsh in the parish
of Dean seems to have imbued the minds of the people with a strong feeling in favour of the Puritans, and
hence we find, during the period of the Commonwealth, Mr. Horrocks of Dean delegated to the Westminster
Assembly of Divines, and James Walker of Dean in the second Presbyterical Classis for Lancashire; while,
at the Restoration, the Rev. John Tyldesley, vicar of Dean, was ejected from his living.
From the proceedings on the inquisition of Pious Uses before Dr. Bridgeman, bishop of Chester, 20, 21,
and 22. Jac. I. (1622–25), preserved in the British Museum, it appears that Ralph Barton, of Gray's Inn,
esq., Ralph Heaton, of Heaton, gent, and others, gave all those messuages, lands, tenements, etc., in Windle,
+ Kuerden’s MS. fol. p. 499. but that the bishop, on the presentation of the king, instituted him
* Mr. Rothwell had for his curate George Marsh, the martyr. to the vicarage aforesaid.
* There is a memorandum on this induction, stating that the
living was void by Richard Hatton's not renouncing the covenant; 4 Harl. Coll, cod, 2176, fo. 47.
Bumrºn of $alfort—Peart 43arisiſ. 537
yielding the annual rent of 4s. at Mich'as, and Lady Day, which rent of 4s. had ever since bene employed for
the benefit of the schoole kept at Dean church.
The charities of this parish, as enumerated by the Parliamentary Commissioners in their 19th Report,
p. 238, may be arranged as follows:— -
DEAN.
1653. Guest's Charity, to be distributed annually to the poor of Dean, the sum of . *
Unknown. According to the Parliamentary Returns in 1786, a sum producing yearly £4 was placed in trust ; how
much is unknown . & • g e g & * & & sº g 4 0 0
1655. Seddon's Charity, three parts of the interest of £100 to be distributed to the poor of Farnworth, and two parts to
the poor of Kearsley. -
1671. Mort's Charity; £250 in trust, of which the yearly produce of one #50 is for the minister of Dean, and the produce
of three other sums of £50 each is for the maintenance of ministers at Ellenbrook Chapel in Worsley, the chapel
in Astley, and the chapel in Atherton called Chowbent ; the remaining £50 for the maintenance of a school-
master in Little Hulton.
#3 15 0
23
These two charities are united, and produce & * ë * . . gº 19 5 0
TARNWORTH CHARITIES.
1700. Rishton's Charity ; the interest of £40 to the poor of Farnworth and Kearsley e 0 9 ()
1715. Dixon Green School, founded by James and John Roscoe with land, and endowed by Nathan Doming with £300 to
be laid out at interest. The school property produces annually in chief rents £9; 12:4%, and a rent of £5: 16s.
on a lease * § & . 15 8 4%
|HORWICH CHARITIES.
1786. Pilkington and Morris's Charities; £65 to the poor of Horwich º g e g * & 5 10 0
1807. Greenhalgh's Charity ; yearly rents to the Presbyterian Chapel and to the poor & e & º 7 17 6
LITTLE HULTON CHARITIES.
1630. Mort's Charity (Adam and Thomas). Tithe-rents to the poor of various townships, among them to Little Hulton 0 11
º
22 Donor unknown ; a rent-charge to the poor * g I 0
MIDDLE HULTON.
1657. Dame Dorothy Leghe's Charity; one-fourth of the interest of £500 to the poor of Middle Hulton and Worsley. In
1826 the Overseers of the former received ſº gº * e g gº & e 5 11 8
IKEARSLEY CHARITIES.
1728. Baguley's Charity, chief rents in Manchester . iº & º g gº & g 2 0 10
1752. High Style School, founded by Henry Mather, for children of Kearsley, Bolton-le-Moors, and Tonge-with-Haulgh.
Income of the school from various sources wº 249 15 11
35 Greenhalgh's Charity; in linen cloth to the poor yearly e g * e & g & I () ()
1814. Cross's Charity; the interest of £200 to the poor, of which £20 were deducted for legacy-duty g * * 5 8 0
Ringley School, founded by Nathan Walworth in the hamlet of Outwood, parish of Prestwich.
Seddon and Rishton’s Charities before mentioned.
RUMWORTH CHARITIES.
1623. Dean Church School” and Crompton's charities. The sum of £462 : 0:2 was left by these testators for the purchase
of lands, etc., with intent that the yearly profits should be disposed to the use of the poor of Rumworth, and
for the maintenance of Dean School. The annual issues are—
For the poor of the parish * * e º #38
,, Dean School e e s e * 32
70 () 5
1728. Lathwaite's Dole. Proceeds of £10 to the poor of Rumworth in bread. For some time 10s., and afterwards 20s.
were distributed, but discontinued since 1824. -
WESTHOUGHTON CHARITIES.
1742. School, endowed by Richard Garnett and others with sums amounting to £275 : 5s. of which £30 have been lost by
insolvency.
Wingate's School, built by subscription 40 or 50 years ago; the interest of £50, left by Peter Silcock, to a master
for teaching five children.
Ryecroft and France's Charities; a sum of £75 : 15s. for cloth to the poor • e g e e 3 () ()
Considerable attention is given in this parish to the education of the poor in Sunday schools; and those
excellent prudential Societies, called sick clubs, prevail to a great extent, both for the benefit of men and
WOIOleIl.
LOCAL EVENTS AND OCCURRENCES.
1450.-Dean Church believed to have been erected, though some years ago, during alterations, an iron hinge was found on a
door with the date 1412 upon it.
ºw. George Marsh, curate of Dean, burned at the stake at Spittal-Boughton, near Chester, for his preaching Protestant-
ism, April 24. -
1609, July 14.—Death of Martin Heton, D.D., bishop of Ely, son of George Heton, esq. of Heton Hall, in this parish, aged 57.
1644.—Alexander Horrocks, a Puritan minister of considerable celebrity, was vicar of Dean at this time, and one of the
Lancashire Committee of Presbyterian Ordination; and was most probably the person referred to by Prince Rupert's troopers,
when, after “Bolton Massacre,” they exclaimed—“O that we had that old rogue Horrocks, that preaches in his grey cloake tº
1684.—John Tildesley, M.A., vicar of Dean, a native of Lancashire, and one of the Presbyterian Committee of Ordination; a
celebrated preacher and Nonconformist, thrice ejected, once imprisoned by Cromwell in the Tower, afterwards residing at Manchester
1 The school-house here was rebuilt in 1820 by Mr. Heaton of Bolton, at a cost of £800.
3 Z
538 - (The #istory of Lancashire.
as a private individual, and dying there December 16, 1684, aged 60. Vicar Tildesley married a near relative of Humphrey Chetham,
and both he and his wife were buried beneath the venerable yew-tree in Dean Churchyard. Over their graves, placed side by side,
still remain two small flat stones, the one over his “deare and precious wife” Margaret, who was buried April 29, 1663, recording
that she was “a most vertuous woman, in price far above rubies.”
1796.-Samuel Longworth, convicted of murdering a young man named Horrock at Dean, was hung at Lancaster, and his
body placed for two months on a gibbet on Dean Moor.
1812-A, mob of Luddites attacked the power-loom manufactory of Messrs. Wroe and Duncuft, at Westhoughton, and de-
stroyed it by fire. Many of the rioters were tried by a special commission at Lancaster on 27th May, and four were executed.
1864, August 31.-First show of the Dean Agricultural Society. - -
The population is progressive, having increased from 29,819 in 1851 to 35,746 in 1861. The manu-
factures which principally prevail are cotton-bleaching, spinning, hand-weaving of fustians, quiltings, etc.,
power-loom weaving of calicoes and sheeting, silk-weaving, paper-making, and vitriol-distilling. The Bolton
Canal, in its line to Manchester, skirts the parish of Dean, but the great source of improvement in the transit
of merchandise, minerals, and passengers, is in the London and North-Western, and Lancashire and Yorkshire
Railways, which connect this parish with the surrounding districts, and with Manchester, Liverpool, and London.
The parish of Dean, though by no means a district of high pretensions amongst the parishes of Lanca-
shire, has the honour to have made large contributions to the worthies of the county. Within its somewhat
circumscribed limits we find the birthplace of an archbishop, a bishop, and a Protestant martyr, all of them
born and flourishing in the sixteenth century.
RICHARD BANCROFT, D.D., Archbishop of Canterbury, and one of the Lords of the Privy Council to James I., was the
second son of John Bancroft, gentleman, of Farnworth, in the parish of Dean, by Mary, daughter of Mr. John Curwyn, brother
of Dr. Hugh Curwyn, archbishop of Dublin, and born in September 1544. Bred in humble life, he received the early part of his
education at an inferior free school in his native village, but was afterwards entered a student of Christ's College, Cambridge,
Where he took his bachelor's degree in arts in 1567, and removing thence to Jesus College, proceeded Master in it;70. He was
shortly after made chaplain to Dr. Cox, bishop of Ely, and in 1575 received from that prelate the rectory of Feversham, in the
County of Cambridge. In the course of the next year he was licensed one of the preachers of the university, and in 1580 was
admitted bachelor of divinity. On the 14th of September 1584 he was instituted to the rectory of St. Andrew's, Holborn, on the
presentation of the executors of Henry, earl of Southampton; and in 1585 was created doctor of divinity, and made treasurer of
St. Paul's Cathedral. In the course of the following year he was appointed one of the chaplains to Sir Christopher Hatton, lord
changellor, and presented to the rectory of Cottingham, in Northamptonshire. In February 1589 he was made a prebendary of
St. Paul's ; in 1592 advanced to the same dignity in the collegiate church of Westminster; and, on the 4th of January 1594,
promoted to a stall in Canterbury Cathedral, having greatly distinguished himself by his zeal for the church of England, in a
learned sermon against the Puritans, at St. Paul's Cross. On the 21st of April 1597, being chaplain to Dr. Whitgift, archbishop
of Canterbury, he was elected to the bishopric of London, had the royal assent on the 30th, was confirmed on the 6th of May,
Q9nsecrated at Lambeth by the archbishop, and the bishops of Rochester, St. David's, Bangor, and Chichester, had the temporali-
ties restored on the 30th, and was enthroned on the 6th of June.
“The bringing of Dr. Bancroft into this see,” says Strype, “which met with considerable opposition, was owing, in a great measure
to the activity and exertions of the archbishop and the lord treasurer. Some, indeed, had represented him as inclined to popery, but his
high character and deserts were properly set forth by his Grace's orders, and sent to court.” It was stated, “That his conversation had
been without blame in the world, having never been complained of, detected, or, for aught he knew, suspected of any extraordinary
enormity. That he had taken all the degrees in school, as other men had done, and with equal credit. He had been a preacher against
popery above twenty-four years, and was certainly no Papist. Indeed, he was not of the Presbyterial faction.”
Dr. Bancroft, finding the cathedral church and the episcopal residence fallen into decay, and having already been at heavy
charges on his entrance into the see, made application to the lord treasurer for restitution of the temporalities from Michaelmas
last, in order to reimburse himself in some measure for the expenses he had been obliged to incur. The archbishop of Canterbury,
from his advanced age and infirmities, committed the entire management of ecclesiastical affairs to Dr. Bancroft, who, from that
time, had in effect the entire archiepiscopal power. In 1600 he was sent ambassador to Emden by Queen Elizabeth, to reconcile
some differences between the English and the Danes. The bishop of London interposed in the disputes between the secular priests
and the Jesuits, and furnished some of the former with materials for writing against their adversaries. In the reign of James I.
he was present at the conference held at Hampton Court between the bishops and the Presbyterian ministers, and was appointed a
commissioner for regulating ecclesiastical affairs, and for perusing and suppressing books printed in England, or brought into the
realm without public authority.
A convocation being summoned for the 20th of March 1604, and Archbishop Whitgift dying in the meantime, Dr. Bancroft
was, by the king's writ, appointed president of that assembly; and, on the 9th of October, nominated to succeed to the archi-
episcopal dignity, to which he was elected by the dean and chapter on the 17th of November, and confirmed in Lambeth chapel on
the 10th of December following. On the 5th of September 1605 he was sworn of his Majesty's most honourable Privy Council;
and in the same year exhibited before that board a series of articles, complaining of encroachment in the ecclesiastical courts in
granting prohibitions. On the 22d of April 1608 he was declared chancellor of the University of Oxford, vacant by the death of
the earl of Dorset ; and, in 1610, offered to the parliament a project for the better maintenance of the clergy, which, however, did
not succeed. This great prelate was a martyr to the stone, and died at his palace at Lambeth on the 2d of November 1610, in
the 67th year of his age. -
By his will he left his extensive library to his successors in the archiepiscopal see, and several legacies to charitable uses, and
ordered his body to be buried in the chancel of Lambeth church, where there is an inscription to his memory. The character of
Archbishop Bancroft varies exceedingly, as it has been given by authors of different persuasions. His most prominent feature,
according to the Nonconformist writers, was his zeal for the Church of England displayed against the Puritans. He accused them,
in his sermon at St. Paul's Cross, of ambition and covetousness, and asserted that the principal cause of nonconformity and schism
was the prospect of plundering bishopries, seizing the endowments of cathedrals, and scrambling for the church revenues. The
laity among the Nonconformists he charged, as he says on clear evidence, with dissolving the bonds of property, and introducing the
community of goods. He strongly represented the danger of permitting private men to contest the authority and violate the
constitutions of the church ; he insisted upon the excellency of the service-book, and dwelt on the absurdity of extempore prayer;
he maintained the superiority and right of bishops; argued for the civil Supremacy, and pointed out in glowing colours the dangers
to be apprehended from the practice and principles of the Disciplinarians. He uniformly opposed, sects and innovations of every
kind ; and, as one of the ecclesiastical commissioners, pursued rigorous measures for the suppression of heresy. Writings which
pumbren of Šalford–Dean parish. 539
were levelled against episcopacy, or intended to recommend any other mode of church discipline, he treated as seditious, and
deemed their authors enemies to the State. In short, he was one of the most zealous agents in wielding the weapons of authority
against troublesome, and, as they were called, factious sectaries. We cannot, therefore, wonder that so zealous a defender of the
Church of England as Bancroft should be rewarded for his services with high ecclesiastical preferment.
In the interior discipline of the church, Archbishop Bancroft was exact, and pressed a strict conformity to the Rubric and
Canons. Those who had formerly subscribed the articles in a loose reserved sense were, under his jurisdiction, required to signify
their conformity in close and unevasive terms. For refusing submission to these requisitions, according to the rolls delivered in
not long before his death, forty-nine clergymen were deprived of their benefices, and other accounts report even a larger number.
His scheme for the better maintenance of the clergy had for its leading objects to modify the tithes, to redeem lay impropriations,
and to restore the practice of mortuaries by repealing the statute of Mortmain. By this plan, although the attempt failed of
success, his care for the interests of the clergy, and his capacity in suggesting measures, are sufficiently discovered and proved.
Whatever may be thought of the archbishop's general temper and character, his abilities appear to have been very great. He
possessed a strong understanding and an active spirit, which fitted him for business, and enabled him to occupy stations of high
importance with a considerable degree of reputation. (>
He wrote a “Discoverye of the Untruthes and Slanders against Reformation, in a sermon preached at Paul’s Cross on the 9th of
February 1588, being the first Sunday in the Parliament;” Lond, 12mo, “Sermon on 1 John iv. 1;” Lond. 1588, 1709, 8vo. “Survey
of the pretended Holy Discipline, containing the beginning, success, parts, proceedings, authority, and doctrine of it ; with some of the
material and manifest repugnancies, varieties, and uncertainties in that behalf ; faithfully gathered, by way of historical narration, out of
the books and writings of the principal favourers of that platform ;” Lond. 1593, 8vo, 1663, 4to, “Dangerous Positions and Proceed-
ings, published under the pretence of Reformation, for the Presbyterial Discipline ;” Lond, 1595, 1640, 4to.
MARTIN HETON, D.D., Lord Bishop of Ely, was the son of George Heton, of Heton Hall, in the parish of Dean, the
ancient seat of the family during several centuries, by Johanna, daughter of Sir Martin Bowes, Knt., Lord Mayor of London, and
was born in the year 1552. His father was for some time master of the house belonging to the English merchants at Antwerp, and
showed great kindness and hospitality to such of his countrymen as had fled to the Continent for the sake of their religion, during
the popish persecutions in the reign of Queen Mary. On his return home he was elected chamberlain of the city of London, and
sent his son to Westminster school, where, he received the rudiments and earlier part of his education, and from whence he
proceeded to Oxford in 1571. He was entered a student of Christ Church, and in a short time greatly distinguished himself by the
acuteness of his disputations and the excellence of his logic. He took his degree of Bachelor of Arts on the 17th of December ifi'74,
and on the 2d of May 1578 proceeded Master. On the 2d of December he became Canon of Christ Church ; on the 3d of June
1583 was admitted Bachelor of Divinity; and on the 21st of June 1585 completed his degree of Doctor in that faculty. On the
19th of July 1588 he was installed Vice-Chancellor of the University of Oxford, and on the 20th of March next year was preferred
to the deanery of Winchester. In 1599 he was nominated by Queen Elizabeth to the see of Ely, was elected on the 25th of
December that year, confirmed by the archbishop of Canterbury on the 1st, and consecrated on the 3d of February following, after
a vacancy of nearly twenty years from the death of Bishop Cox, the last prelate of this see. The character of this reverend prelate
has been impeached, and his memory severely treated by most historians, for greatly impoverishing the see of Ely, and suffering
many alienations. Willis, in his Survey of the Cathedrals, calls them sacrilegious, and says he was a greater alienator than his
predecessor. Had these alienations been voluntary acts on the part of those prelates, the censure, it must be owned, would have
been justly laid; but, as the law then stood, the Queen had it wholly in her power to make those exchanges, and might have taken
to herself, had she so pleased, all the estates of all the bishoprics in England without asking the consent of the bishops. The
following short note from Elizabeth to Dr. Heton, on his hesitating to comply with her demands, will fully exemplify her Majesty's
summary way with the bishops —
“Proud Prelate,_I understand you are backward in complying with your agreement, but I would have you to know that I, who
made you what you are, can unmake you ; and if you do not forthwith fulfil your agreement, by God I will immediately unfrock you.--
Yours, as you demean yourself, - ELIZABETH.”
These exchanges, it is confessed, were generally made to the disadvantage of the bishoprics, but the parliamenthad given the Queen,
in the first year of her reign, an unprecedented and enormous power over them, and, in the exercise of that power, she acted throughout
her long reign with the utmost impartiality ; for there was not a bishopric in the kingdom, except, perhaps, Bristol, Gloucester,
Oxford, and Peterborough, which had nothing to spare, from which her Majesty did not, at one time or other, when they happened
to be vacant, take to herself a considerable part, and, generally speaking, the best and most valuable of their possessions, giving
them in exchange, as she might legally do, either the tenths of the clergy or rectories impropriate. Well was it for the succeeding
bishops that this extraordinary power in the crown was restrained by an act passed shortly after ; but it is hard that all the bishops
of that reign should be blamed for suffering those exchanges to be made, when it was entirely out of their power to prevent them.
It does not appear that Bishop Heton was in any way blameable in this respect, but was a very worthy and deserving man. He
had the character of being an excellent preacher, and stood very high as a logician and philosopher, and was considered by all a
learned, pious, and charitable prelate. He died at Milden Hall, in Suffolk, on the 14th of July 1609, after having sat bishop of
Ely nine years and six months, and was buried in the south aisle of his cathedral church, where his two daughters—Anna, married
to Sir Robert Filmer, of Sutton, in Kent, baronet, and the other to Sir Edward Fishe, of Bedfordshire, baronet—erected a very
elegant monument to his memory.
GEORGE MARSH, Curate of Allhallows, Bread Street, in the city of London, and a Protestant martyr in the reign of Queen
Mary, descended of poor but respectable parents, was the son of Mr. George Marsh of Dean, and born about the year 1515. He
was educated at the free grammar School of Bolton, and brought up to follow his father's occupation in agricultural pursuits; and
having, at the age of twenty-five, married the daughter of a respectable person in his neighbourhood, settled himself there, and had
several children. After the death of his wife, he, placing his children with his father, left Lancashire, removed to Cambridge, and
entered himself a student of the university, where, after having gone through the requisite preparation, he was ordained, and
appointed Curate of Allhallows, Bread Street, in London, by the Rev. Mr. Saunders (the martyr), then rector of that church.
Mr. Marsh continued for some time preaching the reformed doctrines, and zealously supporting the cause of the Protestant faith,
both in London and in Lancashire ; but was at length apprehended by Edward earl of Derby, on Wednesday, the 14th of March
1555, and brought before him for examination. The following account is extracted chiefly from Fox –
“Then was I called, says he, to my Lord and his Council, and was brought into the chamber of presence, where were Sir William
Norris, Sir Piers a Lee, Mr. Sherburne, the parson of Grapnal, Mr. Moore, and others. My Lord asked whether I was one of those that
sowed evil seed and dissension amongst the people; which thing I denied, desiring to know my accusers, and what could be laid against
me ; but that I could not know. Then he and his council would examine me themselves, and asked me whether I was a priest ; I said,
No. He asked me what had been my living ; I answered, I was a minister, served a cure, and kept a school. Then said my Lord to the
council, This is a wonderful thing; before he said he was no priest, and now he confesseth himself to be one. I answered, By the laws
now used in this realm (as far as I know) I am none. They asked me who gave me orders, or whether I had taken any. I said I
received orders of the Bishops of London and Lincoln. Then said they, those are of these new heretics; and they asked me what
540 (Iſiſe £istorg of 3Lancašijire.
acquaintance I had with them ; I answered, I never saw them but at the time I received orders. They then asked me how long I had
been a curate, and whether I had ministered with a good conscience. I answered, I had been a curate but one year, and had ministered
with a good conscience, I thanked God; and if the laws of the realm would have suffered me, I would have ministered still ; and if they
at any time hereafter would suffer me to minister after that sort, I would minister again. At which they murmured, and the parson of
Grapnal said, This last communion was the most devilish thing that ever was devised. Then they asked me what my belief was. I said,
I believed in God the Father, the Son, and Holy Ghost, according as the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament do teach, and
according as the four symbols or creeds—that is to wit, the creed commonly called the Apostles', the creed of the Council of Nice, of
Athanasius, and of Austin and Ambrose, do teach. After a few words, the parson of Grapnal said, But what is thy belief in the
Sacrament of the altar –I answered, I believe that whoever, according to Christ's institution, did receive the holy Sacrament of Christ's
body and blood, did eat and drink Christ's body, and with all the benefits of his death and resurrection, to their eternal salvation; for
Christ, said I, is ever present with his sacrament. They asked me, whether the bread and wine, by virtue of the words pronounced by
the priest, were changed into the flesh and blood of Christ Whereunto I made answer, I knew no farther than I had showed already.
“After many other questions, which I avoided as well as I could, remembering the saying of St. Paul, ‘Foolish and unlearned
questions avoid, knowing that they do but engender strife;’ my Lord commanded me to come to the board, and gave me pen and ink in
my hand, and commanded me to write my answers to the questions of the sacrament above-named ; and I wrote as I had answered before.
Whereat he being much offended, commanded me to write a more direct answer, saying, I should not chuse but do it. Then I took the
pen and Wrote, that further I know not. Whereat he being sore grieved, after many threatenings, said I should be put to a shameful
death like a traitor, with other like words; yet sometimes giving me fair words, protesting, if I would turn and be conformable as others
Were, how glad he should be. In conclusion, after much ado, he commanded me to ward, in a cold, windy, stone house, where was little
room ; where I lay two nights without any bed, saving a few great canvas tent cloths, and so continued till Palm Sunday, occupying
myself as well as I could in meditation, prayer, and study; for no man could be suffered to come to me but my keeper, twice a-day, when
he brought me meat and drink. On Palm Sunday, after dinner, I was sent for again to my Lord and his council, amongst whom were
Sir John Byron and the Vicar of Prescot. So they examined me once again of the Sacrament. And after I had communed apart with
the Vicar a good while concerning that matter, he returned with me to my Lord and the council, saying, That answer which I had made
before, and did then make, was sufficient for a beginner, and for one who did not profess a perfect knowledge of the matter, until such
times as I had learned farther. Wherewith the Earl was very well pleased, saying, he doubted not but by the means and help of the
Vicar of Prescot, I would be conformable in all things; and, after many fair words, he commanded that I should have a bed, with fire,
and liberty to go among his servants, on condition that I would do no harm among them. And so after much other communication I
departed, more troubled in my mind than before, because I had not with greater boldness confessed Christ, but in such sort as mine
adversaries thereby thought they should prevail against me; whereat I was much grieved. A day or two after I was sent for to the
Vicar of Prescot and the Parson of Grapnal, when our communication was concerning the mass. I answered, the whole mass did offend
me, first, because it was in a strange language, whereby the people were not edified, contrary to St. Paul's doctrine, and because of the
manifold and intolerable abuses and errors contained therein, contrary to Christ's priesthood and sacrifice. They then asked me in what
place thereof; and I named several; which places they went about with gentle and far-sought interpretations to mitigate, saying, those
places were understood far otherwise than the words did purport, or than I did take them. So they caused a mass-book to be sent for,
and showed me where in Some places of the mass was written, “A Sacrifice of Praise.” Whereto I answered, that it followed not, there-
fore, that in all places it signified a sacrifice or oblation of praise or thanksgiving; and although it did, yet was not a sacrifice of praise or
thanksgiving to be offered to the people.”
After this Mr. Marsh was sent to Lancaster Castle, and being brought with other prisoners unto the sessions, was made to
hold up his hand with the malefactors; at which time the Earl of Derby had this conversation with him —
“I said unto his Lordship, I had not dwelled in the country these three or four years past, and came home but lately to visit my
mother, children, and others of my friends, and meant to have departed out of the country before Easter then next, and to have gone out
of the realm. Wherefore I trusted, seeing nothing could be laid against me, wherein I had offended against the laws of this realm, his
Lordship would not with captious questions examine me, to bring my body into danger of death, to the great discomfort of my mother;
but suffer me to avoid peaceably, seeing I might have fled out of the country, and yet of my own will came to his Lordship. He said to
the council, he heard tell of me before at London; and intended to make search for me either in Lancashire or at London; and asked me
into What land I would have gone. I answered, I would have gone either into Germany, or else into Denmark. He said, in Denmark
they used such heresy as they have done in England; but as for Germany, he said, the emperor had destroyed them. So, after such like
Words, I said unto him, my trust was, that his Lordship being of the honourable council of the late King Edward, consenting and agreeing
to acts concerning faith towards God and religion, under great pain, would not so soon after consent to put poor men to shameful deaths,
as he had threatened me, for embracing the same with so good a conscience. He answered, that he, with the Lord Windsor and Lord
Dacre, with one more whose name I have forgot, did not consent to those acts, and that the names of them four would be seen as long as
the Parliament House stood. Then my Lord did rehearse the misfortunes of the Dukes of Northumberland and Suffolk, with others,
because they favoured not the true religion ; and again the prosperity of the Queen's Highness, because she favoured the true religion,
thereby gathering the one to be good, and of God; and the other to be wicked, and of the Devil; and said, that the Duke of Northum-
berland confessed so plainly.”
After remaining some weeks in confinement at Lancaster, he was removed to Chester, and placed in the bishop's liberty,
Where his lordship frequently conferred with him, and used his utmost endeavours to bring him to an acknowledgment of the
Corporeal presence in the Sacrament of the altar, the mass, confession, and in short, of all the tenets and practices of the Church Of
Rome. When he saw that he could not prevail, he sent him to prison again. There he was visited by Henshaw, the bishop's
º the archdeacon, and others, who endeavoured to persuade him to acknowledge the Church of Rome, and the Pope to be
the head thereof.
“After Dr. Cotes, the bishop, had several times closely examined him, he caused him, at two o'clock in the afternoon, a few days
after, to be brought before him in the chapel of the Cathedral of Chester, assisted by Fulk Dutton, the mayor of the city, Wensloe the
Chancellor, Getham the Registrar, and Dr. Wall and other priests of the Catholic persuasion. They caused him to be sworn, that he
Would answer truly to such articles as should be objected against him ; and upon the oath being administered, the Chancellor laid to his
charge, that he had preached and openly published most heretical and blasphemous doctrines, within the parishes of Dean, Eccles, Bolton,
Bury, and many other towns and places within the bishop's diocese, in the months of January, February, or some other time of the year
last, proceeding directly against the Pope's authority, the Catholic Church of Rome, the blessed mass, the sacrament of the altar, and
many other articles. Unto all which he answered, that he neither heretically nor blasphemously preached or spoke against any of the
said articles; but simply and truly, as occasion served, maintained the truth touching the same articles, as he said all those then present
did acknowledge the same in the time of the late King Edward the Sixth. Then they examined him severally of every article, and bade
him answer Yes, or No, without equivocation, for they were come to examine, and not to dispute. Then he answered to every article
Very modestly, according to the doctrine by public authority received and taught in this realm at the death of King Edward; which
answers Were every one written by the Registrar, to the utmost that could make against him. After which the company for that time
broke up, and he was returned again to prison.”
#ttmbrel of $alfort--Beam Harish. 541
At the last examination, which took place soon after, the bishop was determined, if Mr. Marsh would not relent and abjure,
to pronounce sentence against him. Wherefore he bade him to be well advised what he should do, for he stood upon his life; and
if he would not, at that present, forsake his heretical opinions, it would (after the sentence given) be too late, though he should
ever so gladly desire it.
“Said the Chancellor, In your last examination, among many other damnable and Schismatical heresies, you said, That the church
and doctrine, taught and set forth in King Edward’s time, was the true church, and that the Church of Rome was not the true and Catholic
church I said so, replied Mr. Marsh, and I believe it to be true.”
[Twice the Bishop commenced reading the sentence, and was stayed by the Chancellor, in the hope that Marsh would at the last
recant..] “How sayest thou, said the Bishop, wilt thou recant } Many of the priests and ignorant people bade him do so, and call to
God for grace; and, pulling him by the sleeve, bade him recant and save his life. To whom he answered, I would as fain live as you, if
in so doing I should not deny my master Christ, and then he would deny me before his Father in heaven. Then the Bishop read out his
sentence unto the end, and afterwards said unto him, Now I will no more pray for thee, than I will for a dog. Mr. Marsh answered, that,
notwithstanding, he would pray for his Lordship. After this the Bishop delivered him to the Sheriffs of the city, and they carried him
to a dungeon at the north gate, where he was strictly kept until his execution.”
When the day and hour came on which it was appointed he should suffer, the sheriffs of the city, with their officers, armed
with bills and poll axes, went to the north gate, and there took him out, and put a lock upon his feet. And as he came on the way
towards Boughton, the place of execution, about a mile from Chester, some folks proffered him money, and looked that he should
have gone with a purse in his hand, to the end that he should give unto the priest to say masses for him after his death ; but this
he refused, and bade them give it to the poor. When he had arrived at the stake, one Cawdry, being the deputy-chamberlain of
the city, showed him a writing under a great seal, saying that it was a pardon for him if he would recant. He answered, for as
much as it tended to pluck him from God, he would not receive it upon that condition. He made a short address to the people,
and exhorted them to stick unto Christ ; whereupon one of the sheriffs said, “We must have no sermonising now ;” to which
Marsh answered, “Master, I cry you mercy,” and so, kneeling down, Said his prayers, put off his clothes to his shirt, and was
then chained to the stake ; having a number of faggots under him, and a thing like a barrel, with pitch and tar in it, over his
head. The fire being unskilfully made, and the wind driving the flames to and fro, he suffered great extremity of pain at his
death, which notwithstanding he bore very patiently. When he had been a long time tormented in the fire without moving,
having his flesh much broiled and puffed up, he suddenly spread abroad his arms, saying, “Father of heaven, have mercy upon
me !” and so yielded up his spirit into the hands of the Lord.
“There is little charity,” saith Fuller, “in condemning Marsh, as the Jesuits do, for answering in the earlier part of his examination,
but dubiously and fearfully, as therein too much consulting carnal respects in Saving his life; seeing that he hath made amends for all
these failings with his final constancy, being both burnt and scalded to death (having a barrel of pitch placed over his head, an accent of
cruelty peculiar to him alone), when he was martyred at Chester, April 24th, 1555.”
OVER HULTON.—Over Hulton, Middle Hulton, and Little Hulton, separate townships, adjoin each other,
and are situated on the south-east part of the parish. Over Hulton is the sole property of William Ford Hulton
of Hulton Park, esq., the twenty-fifth in descent from Blethyn de Hulton, living in the reign of Henry II.
The park is laid out in plantations and pleasure-grounds upon an extensive scale. The ancient hall, the
residence of this distinguished Lancashire family through so many generations, stood upon the site of the
present building, which is of modern construction, with a semicircular wing and portico. The ancient chapel
attached to the hall no longer exists.
MIDDLE HULTON is rich in wood and coal mines. The manor, as we have seen, is vested in the earl of
Ellesmere, and the court baron is held in this township. William Bagot, esq., is the principal landed pro-
prietor.
LITTLE HULTON, or Hilton, though having the diminutive epithet, is amongst the most important and
interesting of the tº in the parish of Dean. The Hultons were the early lords of this division of the
parish ; but the last duke of Bridgewater, from the high, and, as the event has proved, the just estimate he
formed of the value of the minerals, purchased the manor, which is now vested in his heirs (the earls of
Ellesmere). There are in this township two ancient mansions called Peel Hall, which, for distinction's sake,
may be designated Yates Peel Hall and Kenyon Peel Hall; there is also Warton Hall, a simple but venerable
building, the property of the Gwillams and Lords Kenyon. Peel Hall is of wood and plaster, with a gate-
way of stone. It was the residence of Miss Alice Kenyon, aunt of Lord Kenyon, whose great-grandfather,
Thomas Kenyon, esq., was son of Roger Kenyon of Peel, and married Catherine Lloyd, heiress of Luke
Lloyd of Bryn, in Flintshire, where he settled, and where his grandson, the late Lloyd Kenyon, chief justice
of the Court of King's Bench, created Baron Kenyon in 1788, died on the 5th of April 1802, whose
son, Lloyd Kenyon, third baron, is the owner. The Rigbyes, a branch of the De Rigbes, inherited this
place for a short period. George Rigby, esq., fourth son of Alexander Rigby of Middleton, esq., clerk
of the peace for the county of Lancaster, married Beatrix, eldest daughter of William Hulton of Hulton
Park, esq., and rebuilt his hall of Peel in 1634. Roger Kenyon obtained the estate by marriage, 17th
June 1657, with Alice, sole daughter of George Rigby. This Roger was member of parliament for the
borough of Clitheroe in 1690, and was succeeded by several George Kenyons of Peel. There is here
a variety of Lancashire armorial bearings in stone and on stained glass, and over the gateway is the
inscription, inculcating a temper so essential to domestic comfort, “Peace within these walls, Geo. Rigby,
1637.” “From the leaden top of the summer-house,” says Mr. Barritt, “is a delightful landscape variegated
with endless beauties; from hence you behold the trackless bog of Chat Moss,” (now no longer trackless)
“rich corn-fields, fine meadows, brown woods, Atherton Park, the town of Leigh and neighbouring villages,
and the distant hills of Cheshire.”—Yates Peel Hall, formerly the residence of the Rev. William Allen," is
1 The Rev. William Allen, of Peel Hall, Little Hulton, author of Collectanea Latina, died on the 8th March 1834, aged 47.
542 - Qſìje 3%istorg of £ancagüirº.
a stone fabric, consisting of a centre and two wings, presenting three gables in its front view. The north
side of the hall is castellated. On the cornice of the entrance-hall are the arms of Yates; crest, a stag's
head. Here are also vestiges of a moat, and a mulberry-tree in decay. Sir Joseph Yates, knt., justice of the
Court of Common Pleas, occupied and possessed this hall about 1774. The last of this ancient family
resident here was Joseph Yates, esq., who died about 1817, having sold the estate to the late Ellis Fletcher
of Clifton, esq. Charlotte Ann, only daughter of the late Jno. Fletcher, esq., took the estate in marriage to
the Hon. R. W. Stapleton-Cotton, eldest son and heir of Lord Combermere. Peel chapel in this township,
dedicated to St. Paul, in the patronage of Lord Kenyon, is a neat brick fabric with a cupola, erected in 1760
by the Yates family, and rebuilt in 1828, has 600 sittings, 150 free. There are here also two chapels used
by the Congregational or Independent Dissenters, the first called Warton Chapel, built in 1730, and the
more modern edifice built in 1823; with a Wesleyan Methodist chapel, built in 1817, and a Primitive
Methodist Chapel, built in 1823. -
KERSLEY-The smallest township in this parish is the chapelry of Kersley at the south-eastern boundary
in the Vale of the Irwell, on the Bolton and Manchester road. John Radford was lord of Kersley temp.
Richard II. His descendants parcelled out the estate to the various families of the Prestons, Lees, Ashetons,
Bridgmans, Standishes, Seddons, Traffords, Mosleys, and Marcrofts; and lastly, to the Starkies of Huntroyd,
who now possess Kersley Hall, a plain gabled stone mansion. The late Ellis Fletcher of Clifton, esq., was lord of
the waste, which it is said was anciently attached to Barton-on-Irwell. Kersley Moss is much resorted to for
turbary ; oak and alder trees are found deeply imbedded in the peat; the timber is as black as ebony, but in
a less perfect state of preservation than that which is usually found in these enormous beds of decayed
vegetation. Through the rage for inclosure, which so generally prevailed towards the end of the last and
the beginning of the present century, much of the waste land in Dean parish was inclosed.
FARNWORTH.-Adjoining to Kersley is the township of Farnworth, which name it derives probably from
the Anglo-Saxon Fearn, on account of the quantity of that plant which formerly overran the land, and still
grows abundantly in the neighbourhood. Farnworth church, on Halshaw Moor, in this township,
dedicated to St. John, in the patronage of Hulme's trustees, is a handsome stone structure with a tower and
Crocketed pinnacles; it was built in 1825 by the parliamentary commissioners, and opened in 1827. It is
now a district parish, of which the Rev. W. H. Taylor (1866) is incumbent. Value, £300. It has 1000
sittings, of which 400 are free. The old hall of Farnworth (the property of the earl of Bradford) has sunk
into decay, and is now occupied as cottages. The Hultons of Farnworth Hall, a branch from the parent
stock of Hulton, were settled here in 4 Edward II. (1310-11); and the last of the family at Farnworth died
after the 35th of Elizabeth (1593), and before 1613. -
Birch House, in the parish of Dean, built in the reign of Charles I. on the eve of the English Commonwealth, was originally
the seat of the Rishtons, by whom the estate was purchased from Robert Worsley of the Boothes; subsequently it came into the
possession of the Dornings, and became the residenee of Dorning Rasbotham, esq., high-sheriff of the county palatine of Lancaster
in 1769, who, had he lived to execute his intentions, would have supplied the county with a history worthy of its ancient families
and of its modern rank amongst the counties of England. To this labour he had been invited by his brother magistrates and other
competent judges, but his health failed him before his Herculean task was accomplished. Mr. Rasbotham’s collections, which were
obligingly confided by his family to the author of these pages, are contained in four partially-filled volumes of MS. notes, chiefly
Written in Byrom's original short-hand character. The materials are selected from various authors, and are enriched with a num-
ber of original observations, illustrated by plans, drawings, and armorial bearings, the production of his own pencil. The family
of Rasbotham, or, as the name was originally written, Rosbotham, are of Scottish extraction, and came into Lancashire after the
battle of Flodden Field. From that period they were seated on a small estate called the Low-Brookes, near Ashton-in-Makerfield.
Early in the eighteenth century the family removed to Warrington, and subsequently to Manchester. About the year 1725 Peter
Rasbotham married Hannah, one of the daughters and co-heiresses of John Dorning, of Birch House, esq., in the parish of Dean,
by which event that house and some other estates came into the hands of the Rasbothams. Dorning Rasbotham, the issue of this
marriage, was born in 1730; and in the year 1754 he married Sarah, the eldest daughter of James Bayley, of Manchester and
Withington, esq., and grand-daughter to Samuel Peploe, bishop of Chester. By her he had five children—Anne, who died
unmarried ; Dorothy, who died an infant; Peter, married to Dorothy, eldest daughter of the Rev. John Lever, and niece of Sir
Ashton Lever of Alkrington Hall; Dorning, married to Sarah, third daughter of George Barton of Manchester, esq.; and Frances,
married to William, third son of John Gray of Finedon, in Northumberland, esq. The works written by Mr. Rasbotham, in
addition to his collections for the History of the County of Lancaster, were Codrus, a tragedy performed twice at the Manchester
theatre, and printed for private circulation ; Verses intended to have been spoken at the breaking-up of the grammar School in
Manchester for the Christmas holidays in 1782; a Dissuasive from Popular Rioting directed against mechanical manufacturing
improvements; and a variety of other miscellaneous compositions both in prose and verse. In addition to his literary attainments,
he was very partial to the pencil, and he both painted, etched, and engraved very successfully. Rasbotham bore argent, a chevron
between three antelopes springing, proper ; impaling, for Bayley, argent, on a fess gules, three plates between three martlets of the
second. Crest, an antelope couchant, proper. After a life of activity and usefulness, he died on the 7th of November 1791,
and his character, as drawn by his friend the Rev. Thomas Barnes, D.D., is inscribed on a mural tablet in the parish church of
Dean.
Subsequently to the death of Mr. Rasbotham, this estate passed into the hands of John Bentley, esq., by
whom Birch House was partially re-edified, and it is now the residence of Mr. Troutbeck. Darley Hall in
this township, a modern edifice, seated amongst extensive pleasure-grounds, overlooks the confluence of the
Croal, the Tonge, and the Bradshaw with the Irwell, and is one of the seats of Benjamin Rawson, esq. In
the reign of Queen Mary, the township of Farnworth, now part of the parish of Dean, was part of the town-
ship of Barton-upon-Irwell (though distant about five miles from it). In 1663, the present township of
#umbret of $alfort–HBeam 33arisiſ. 543
Farnworth was only called the hamlet of Farnworth, within the township of Barton ; and so late as 1725 a
determination was made, that the inhabitants of the township of Barton should convey their own felons to
the gaol at Lancaster, without the assistance of the townships of Farnworth and Kersley, which before had
contributed to that cost.*
HALLIWELL-The first mention we find of the township of Halliwell occurs in the seventeenth year of
the reign of King John (1215-16), when the abbot of Cockersand claims an exemption from fines and amer-
ciaments, by a charter of that date from the king. In 16 Edward T. (1288) a desperate rencontre, issuing
in homicide, appears to have taken place in Halliwell, wherein Roger Fitz-John of Halliwell slew Richard
Smaltrot, and was committed to prison for the offence. In this case, an inquisition was held in the castle of
Tancaster, when the jurors returned—
“That on Sunday next after the Feast of St. John the Baptist, in the sixteenth year of the reign of our lord the king (Edward I.,
1288) the said Richard Smaltrot came to the house of Elyas de Leuere, and found there the said Roger, and began to quarrel with him.
And there the said Richard struck the said Roger with a certain stick. John of Halewelle, the father of the said Roger, saw this, and
wished to make peace between them ; but could not, on account of the said Richard, who was continually endeavouring to strike the said
Roger further, and in consequence the said Roger fled within doors, and John, the father, closed the doors. The said Richard, seeing this,
broke open a Small door and entered the house, and followed the said Roger to slay him even to the wall of the house, so that the said
Roger could not further escape, and he there turned round and struck the said Richard, whereof he had his death. And this he did in
self-defence, being unable to escape further. And therefore the said Roger, who is poor and has nothing in goods, prays that our lord the
king will pardon his suit, so that he may stand justified against him who would speak thereof.”
Richard de Hulton of Hulton Park, living 1325-26, about that time gave lands in Halliwell to his brother
John, styled “ of Halliwell.” About 1320, Richard de Hilton held the tenth of a knight's fee in Halliwell.
Robert Hilton held it in 1473. In the first year of Henry VII. (1485), Sir Thomas Pilkington had possessions
in Halliwell, and in the list of estates forfeited to the crown by Sir Thomas, and granted by the king to the
earl of Derby, both Halliwell and Smithells are enumerated.” Long antecedent to this period the Radcliffes
were lords of Smithells, and a branch of the family was seated at Smithells Hall. William Radcliffe of
Smithells had issue William, to whom succeeded three Sir Ralph Radcliffes, the last of whom had a daughter
Joan, his heiress, who, by marriage with Ralph Barton of Holme, esq., after 29 Henry VI. (1450–51),
conveyed the possession to that family. In the persecuting days of Mary, George Marsh, the martyr, under-
went his first examination before Mr. Barton, in Smithells Hall, and from hence he was transferred to Latham, .
previously to his final committal to Lancaster Castle. The vicar of Dean, the Rev. David Dee, with a zeal
equal to that of his lay-parishioner Mr. Barton, is found at the same time making presentments against
“Ralphe Holme of Checkerbente for harbouring in his howse dyverse priests.” “ The date of the erection
of Smithells Hall cannot be accurately fixed, but the figures 1360 formerly existed on the gateway. The hall
is placed in a sheltered situation, at the head of a fine lawn, bursting agreeably upon the view, with a court-
yard in the centre, and two wings, one to the west and the other to the east, which latter forms a domestic
chapel. The walls of the courtyard are painted in white and black trefoils, and at the western extremity of
the building is a shaded walk enveloped in ivy. The entrance-hall is appropriately furnished with antique
sofas, tables, and chairs; and the library, through which the gateway formerly passed, is glazed with stained
glass, representing coats of arms, warriors armed cap-a-pie, trophies, etc. The large parlour, or hall, is richly
wainscoted with highly polished oak, cut into mouldings, flowers, carved heads in profile, and innumerable
figures, the whole surmounted with a rich Gothic cornice. The rebus of a tun crossed by a bar, and inscribed
A. B., indicating Andrew Bar-ton,” serves to fix the date when the mansion was rebuilt—probably in the
reign of Henry VII. Several paintings on glass, by foreign masters, have been recently introduced into the
south Window, which, though admirable as works of art, detract from the unity of the decorations. In a
passage near the door of the dining-room is a natural cavity in a flag, somewhat resembling the print of a
man’s foot; and this appearance has occasioned a tradition, that the martyr George Marsh (whose family still
reside in Rumworth), when brought before Mr. Barton for examination, in 1555, stamped upon the place
where he stood, in confirmation of the truth of his opinions, and that a miraculous impression was made upon
the stone with his peaked shoe, as a perpetual memorial of the injustice of his enemies.” Smithells is dependent
upon the superior manor of Sharples, the lord of which claims from the owner of this place a pair of gilt spurs
annually ; and, by a very singular and inconvenient custom, the unlimited use of the cellars at Smithells for
a week in every year." It does not appear, however, that the lord of Smithells was bound to the quantity or
to the quality of the liquors with which his cellars were at that time to be stored. This feudal claim seems
now nearly abandoned, as it has not been enforced within the last thirty years. Grace, sole daughter and
heir of Sir Thomas Barton, the last male heir (who died in 1659), was married to Henry Belasyse, M.P.,
1 Rasbotham’s Collections, vol. ii. p. 749. The Bartons are an ancient Lancashire family.
* Duchy Records, bundle H, No. 13. 3 Harl. Coll. codex 360. * A cavity in the wall, several feet above the floor under the carved
* Certainly not, as has been imagined, Sir Andrew Barton, the wainscot of the green room, is shown, in which the martyr is said to
Paul Jones of Henry VIII.'s reign, whose fame is celebrated in have concealed himself, when taken before Mr. Barton ; but the
Reliques of Amcient English Poetry, and of whom it is said— notion is as absurd as the impression of the footmark here, and at
“Hee is a proud Scott, that robbs on the seas, Marsh Fold in Halliwell, is improbable.
And Sir Andrew Barton is his name.” - ° History of Whalley, p. 424.
544 The history of Lancashire.
eldest son of Thomas, first Lord Wiscount Fauconberg, whose descendant, Thomas, the third earl, in 1721 sold
the manor of Smithells, which afterwards passed into the hands of the Byroms of Manchester, by whom it
was sold for £21,000 to the late Richard Ainsworth of Halliwell, esq., an opulent bleacher, and a descendant
of the Ainsworths of Pleasington, who died in 1833, and whose son, Peter Ainsworth, esq., now possesses and
occupies the hall. A small bronze spear-head, and British stone celts, one of the latter in the form of a battle-
axe, have been found here within the present century, as old probably as the first Roman conquest of Britain.
Adjoining to the hall is an ancient chapel, clad in ivy, used by the family and domestics at the hall, and the
inhabitants of the vicinity, in the eastern window of which are emblazoned arms in eleven compartments.
HEATON.—In 3 Edward III. (1329), Ralphe Heaton was lord of this township. Heton (old) Hall was
for several centuries the residence of a family of the same name, of which was Martin Heton, D.D., bishop
of Ely, son of George Heton, esq., and his wife Johanna, daughter of Sir Martin Bowes, knight, lord mayor of
London. The bishop was born in 1552, and died in 1609. Both the old and the new halls are plain stone
edifices, calling for no particular observation. In 32 Edward I. (1304) Richard de Hulton of Hulton Park
had a charter of free warren in all his demesne lands of Hulton, Ordshall, Flixton, and Heton.
HoRWICH. The ancient forest of Horwich, sloping down the sides of Rivington Pike—which from an
early period belonged to the Gresleys, lords of Manchester, and was sixteen miles in circumference, with its
wild boars, falcons, and ačries of eagles—has long since disappeared, and their places are supplied by bleach-
works, cotton-factories, and all the modern indications of manufacturing industry; but the woody dingles
which abound in this extensive tract seem to recall the memory of those times, when the Lacies and the
Ferrers, followed by their vassals, plunged into the thickets in the ardour of the chase, and emerged only at
a distance of several miles to witness the dying struggles of the weeping deer. This ancient forest, from its
capacious dimensions, and the abundant supply of timber for buildings and for fuel, became a manufacturing
station at an early period; and as remote as the reign of Henry VIII. We read of yarn spun in Horwich.
The manor is in the possession of Lord Camoys' family, by the will of Henry Blundell of Ince Blundell, esq.,
dated 24th July 1809, whereby he devised the manors of Lostock, Anderton, Heaton, Horwich, Rumworth, and
Adlington, Co. Lancaster, and about 6000 acres of land, mines, etc., to his daughters, Catherine, wife of Thomas
Stonor of Stonor, esq. (father of Thomas, lord Camoys), and Elizabeth, wife of Stephen Tempest, of Broughton
esq., and their heirs, in tail male, in fee. This will led to a trial at law at the assizes at Lancaster in
1812, the plaintiff being Charles Robert Blundell, esq., son of the testator, against whom a verdict was given
establishing the validity of the will, which was again confirmed by a decree of the Court of Chancery, on the
18th April 1815. The principal proprietor of the soil in this lordship is Joseph Ridgway, esq. of Ridgemont,
the residence of A. R. Pilkington, esq., towards the end of the last century. The house called Horwich Hall
is a modern erection upon an ancient site. The episcopal chapel of Horwich existed 1565-1662, when James
Walton, the minister, was ejected. The old chapel, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, which had sunk into
decay, was taken down in 1831, and superseded by the present new church, built partly by parliamentary
grant and partly by subscription, the first stone of which was laid May 21, 1830, on a new site, by Joseph
Ridgway, esq., one of the principal benefactors. This is now a district chapelry, of which the Rev. H. S. Pigot
(1853) is incumbent. The church has 1700 sittings, 500 of them free. Value £334. The patronage is in
the vicar of Dean. The last Lord Willoughby de Parham was interred here in 1779, when a monument was
erected to his memory. There are here also a chapel belonging to the Congregational Dissenters, built in
1805, and a Wesleyan Methodist Chapel, built in 1808.
Two objects upon the egg-formed eminences of this parish have long excited the attention of the
curious; and the graphic description of their appearance eighty years ago, drawn by Mr. Rasbotham, from
personal inspection, and preserved in his unpublished collections, will be read with interest:—
“September 12, 1787–I went this day to visit a remarkable stone, and took with me the landlord of the alehouse at Horwich Moor .
Gate, as my guide. In this excursion, after having had the Wilder Lads some time upon our left, we proceeded over Winter Hill, in
which situation their bearing was about south-south-west, or nearly South. The stone lies upon the declivity of a hill in the township of
Turton, but upon the edge of that of Longworth. It goes by the name of the Hanging or Giant's Stone. The tradition of the common
people is, that it was thrown by a certain giant upon a certain occasion (the nature of which, however, they do not specify) from Winter
Hill on the opposite range to this place, and they whimsically fancy that certain little hollows in the stone are the impression made by
the giant's hand at the time he threw it; but I own I could not find out the resemblance which was noticed to me. It appears, however,
to have long excited attention; for though it is a hard gray moor-stone, a rude mark of a cross + of about 7 inches by 6 hath apparently
at a very distant period of time been cut upon the top of it. It is elevated upon another piece of rock, and its greatest length is 14 feet,
its depth in the thickest part 5 feet 8 inches, and its greatest breadth upon the top, which is nearly flat, about 9 feet. The height of
the highest part of it from the ground is about 5 feet 8 inches. A thorough-going antiquary would call this a Druidical remain. This
stone lies about three miles and a quarter north-east by north from Rivington Pike, and something more than three miles north-west of
the Wilder Lads. This range of hills is in the several townships of Horwich, Halliwell, Sharples, Longworth, Rivington, and Turton, and
they are of different altitudes. At the Wilder Lads the horizon meets your eye above the summit of the building upon Rivington Pike,
and upon Winter Hill considerably above the top of the Wilder Lads. In our ancient maps one part of this range is distinguished by
the name of Egbert Den, and in my walk I crossed the remains of a very remarkable trench, to this day known by the name of the Dane's
Dike. It extends for the length of something more than three measured miles in a straight line, running from the north-west to the
south-east. It commences at or about Lomax Wife's in Halliwell, and is for Some space the boundary between the Smithells estate in
1 Note by Rev. Canon Raines, in Notitia Cestriensis, ii. 41.
#umbrel of $alfort—Pratt #aris), 545
that township and Sharples, and from hence it reaches to the point of Winter Hill. Near the centre of this trench is an eminence which
commands the view of its whole extent, and which is called by the people of the neighbourhood the Counting Hill. In these hills are
mines of coal, particularly at the edge of Hordern in the township of Sharples, and upon that part of them which belongs to the Smithells
estate, in the township of Halliwell, and in the latter township some inconsiderable slate-delphs have been opened, but neither the slate
nor the coal appears as yet to have been worked to any considerable advantage. Under the peat in the township of Halliwell was found
a few years ago marle (yellowish and bluish), which is cut out with the spade as easily as tempered clay need be, and which hath
produced good crops where it hath been used as manure. As I passed over the brook in the valley it gave imperfect demonstration of the
violence with which the floods, after heavy rains, come down ; the channel was filled with rude fragments of rock which had been
tumbled over each other upon such occasions. My guide told me the water sometimes comes down these from the eminence above with
so much violence as to form a cascade, the noise of which resembles thunder, and under which a person on horseback may ride without
receiving any damage.” Mr. Rasbotham continues –“To the right of the road from Bolton to Chorley upon the summit of Horwich
Moor, lie the Wilder Lads, two rude piles of stone, so called from the tradition of the country that they were erected in memory of two
boys, who were wildered (that is, bewildered) and lost in the Snow at this place." They lie about three-quarters of a mile south-east by
east from Rivington Pike, and may be distinctly seen for a considerable distance as you pass along the road, from which, at Horwich chapel,
they are something more than a mile distant. They are undoubtedly of very high antiquity, and were originally united by a circular
mound, above three-quarters of which as yet remains visible. Their circumference is about 26% feet, and the passage betwixt them 6;
feet. The remains of the mound is about 4 feet wide, but on the east side for the space of 17 feet is entirely levelled. The opening from
the inclosure is exactly to the south. This account and the drawing were taken in the year 1776, but they have been lately raised, I
imagine, by the proprietor of the common, with a view to their being more distinctly seen, perhaps, at the place of his residence.
September 14, 1787.”
WESTHOUGHTON.—A step over the township of Lostock in the parish of Bolton, which pierces the
parish of Dean and divides Horwich from Westhoughton or West Halghton, brings us into the latter
township or perpetual chapelry, and completes our perambulation. The scene is now totally changed from
the wild and sterile mountainous regions of the moors; we come into a flat and fertile plain well stored with
a manufacturing and agricultural population. There is here an Episcopal chapel dedicated to St. Bartholomew,
existing in 1577, and in 1662 it was covered with thatch and in the midst of moors; this humble edifice was
rebuilt in 1731 through the exertions of the Rev. James Rothwell, fifty-five years the useful vicar of Dean.
Registers begin in 1732. It is now a district chapelry, of which the Rev. J. R. Alsop (1842) is incumbent.
It has 520 sittings, 20 free. Value, £149. Patron, the vicar of Dean.” There are also a Wesleyan
Methodist chapel, built in 1785 ; a Quakers' meeting-house, built in 1820; and an Independent chapel, built
in 1827. West Halghton was a manor belonging to the abbey of Cockersand before the time of Richard II.
From the period of the Reformation, when the possessions of the abbey of Cockersand were confiscated, the
manor of Westhoughton has been vested in the crown, and Lord Skelmersdale now holds this manor in fee
from the crown, receiving the small chief rents. The earl of Ellesmere, Le Gendre N. Starkie, esq., and
William Hulton, esq., are the chief owners of property here. In this township, at a place called Drake Lane
Brook, there is a strong sulphurous spring, which, on the application of a lighted candle, bursts into a flame
and burns with sufficient power to raise water held over it in a vessel to the boiling temperature. The
properties of this spring are precisely the same as those of the Burning Well at Hindley, in the parish of
Wigan. Brinsop Hall and Daisey Hall, or Westhoughton Hall, are the most ancient houses in the township,
but they are not connected with any local history. In the year 1727 or 1728 a fatal and malignant epidemic
prevailed in Westhoughton and some of the townships in the parish of Leigh, which carried off one-third of
the inhabitants, but such was its peculiarity and locality that it did not spread to several of the adjoining
townships. Two events connected with the criminal history of the county, both within living memory, are
referred to by the inhabitants with awe and horror. In the year 1796 Samuel Longworth, convicted of
robbing and murdering a young man of the name of Horrock at Dean, was, after his execution at Lancaster,
hung upon a gibbet on Dean Moor, where the body remained for two months, when it was removed and
buried. A century and a half before this time the army of Prince Rupert had assembled upon this moor
previous to the fatal attack upon Bolton, which issued in the storm and Surrender of that place. In the year
1812 the parish of Dean, like the neighbouring parish of Middleton, was a scene of popular riot and outrage.
A great body of labouring people, calling themselves the followers of “Ned Ludd,” fell upon the power-loom
manufactory of Messrs. Wroe and Duncuft, at Westhoughton, near the Bolton and Wigan road, and burnt it
to the ground. For this outrage a number of the offenders were brought to trial under a special commission
at Lancaster, on the 27th of May 1812, and four of them were executed for the offence.
No market is held in the parish of Dean, but there are two fairs, established in 1832, at Westhoughton,
for cattle and pedlery. There is an annual rush-bearing held on the first Sunday in September.
To the honour of the inhabitants, considerable attention is paid in the parish of Dean to the education
of youth. In addition to the numerous Sunday-schools, and to the charity-schools of more early date already
enumerated, there is at Horwich a school-house, erected in 1793, and now appropriated to education upon the
national and infant School system, capable of accommodating 800 children, who are taught during the week
* A tradition prevails in the neighbourhood that the two unfor- * Rasbotham’s MS. Collections, vol. i. pp. 19 and 25.
tunate youths lost in the storm, to whose memory these twin piles * In the time of Mr. Orme, who died about 1730, the income
are supposed to have been erected, were the sons of Bishop Pilking- of this living did not amount to more than £6 a-year; but, by a
ton, but there is no evidence to support this supposition except the division of the commons, certain lands were allotted to it, and it was
coincidence that the bishop had two sons, and that they both died further augmented by the queen's bounty, so that its revenue in
young. 1787 amounted to £60 a-year.—Rasbotham's MSS.
4 A
546 (Iſiſt #istory of £antagjire.
for a small payment, within the reach of persons in low circumstances. There is also a school at Halliwell,
founded in 1809, in honour of George III. on his having entered the 50th year of his reign, called the
Jubilee School, in which 150 boys and girls are educated for a small payment; and another at Peel or Street
Yate, founded in 1701 by George Kenyon, esq., and rebuilt in 1819 by Lord Kenyon, capable of
accommodating 160 children, and conducted on the same plan as the schools at Horwich and Halliwell.
The parish of Dean to the south presents a flat country, varied by fertile and interesting valleys. In
the north, Smithells, Dean, and Horwich moors give it a more bold but a less fertile appearance. The soil
generally is a stiff loam, about one-fourth part of which is arable, and the other part pasture, meadow, and
common. The rent of land varies, according to its localities and fertility, from 25s, to 55s, per statute acre,
with a tendency upward, and an improved system of tillage and drainage. Most of the farms in this parish
are dairy-farms, supplying their produce to Bolton, and they are chiefly let by the Cheshire or large acre.
In Heaton there are quarries of slate and flags, and in Middle and Little Hulton excellent stone; but the
principal mineral productions are found in the rich and valuable coal-mines in the southern townships,
rendered still more valuable by the railways, which open out for them an improved conveyance to extensive
and unfailing markets,
#umbret of $alfort—33dſton #arígí). 547
BOLTON PARISH.
<---e.
*.
fºg. the Conqueror. Bolton, therefore, is an ancient manor, but a modern parish, no church
. º; having existed here in the year 1291. This parish is situated in the northern part of the
jº,09ER DE POITOU, among his other possessions, received the manor of Bolton from William
W
ºft)\º hundred of Salford, in the archdeaconry and deanery of Manchester, and comprehends the
• *:W\. Sº following townships and chapelries:—
Township. Area in Acres. | Population in 1861. Township. Area in Acres. | Population in 1861.
Anlezargh g * 1279 134 Harwood tº e 1100 2055
Blackrod, C. . g 2367 2,911 Little Lever, C. & 1020 3890
Great Bolton . g 820 43,435 Longworth . sº 1590 154
Little Bolton, C. . . 1450 25,891 Lostock . g g 1426 580
Bradshaw, C. . g 1380 792 Quarlton & g 500 253
Breightmet . & 970 1,562 Rivington, C. . & 2630 369
Edgeworth . sº 2480 273 Sharples te g 3920 3294.
Entwisle. * > & 1450 422 Tong-with-Haulgh . 1030 3539
Darcy Lever . & 540 2,071 Turton, C. . * 4110 4513
Population of the Parliamentary and Municipal Borough in 1861, 70,395.
The length of the old parish from S.S.E. to N.N.W. is eleven miles, and its breadth from W. to E. nine
miles, exclusive of Blackrod and Lostock, which are separated from the main body of the parish by the
intervention of the western townships of Dean. The number of acres in the parish, Cheshire measure, which
obtains in the out-township surveys, is 12,938, including 518 statute acres for Great Bolton and 674 statute
acres for Little Bolton. The area of the entire parish, according to the census of 1861, is 30,062 statute
acres. Population, 97,215. Another measurement gives the area of the old parish as 33,405 acres 3 roods
15 poles. The celebrated Douglas Water rises on the west side of the parish of Bolton; and the three
rivulets called Tonge, Croal, and Bradshaw, have their source in the hills by which this town is overlooked, and
flow either directly through the town or within a short distance from it, making their confluence with the Irwell
at Prestolee, near Little Lever. The ancient Saxon orthography of this place is Boltune or Bothel-tun, a town
adjoining to a principal mansion or manor-house, and the affix or distinctive name of “le Moors,” is derived
from its ancient situation in the moors, as distinguished from Bolton-le-Sands, in this county, and the several
Boltons of Yorkshire. The ancient manor and town of Bolton descended with that great mass of property
granted to Roger de Poitou at the time of the Conquest, and subsequently transferred to Roger de Meresheia
or Meresheya, from whom it passed by purchase, in the reign of King Stephen, to Randle de Blundeville, earl
of Chester. In the preliminary chirograph or charter, Roger conveyed all the lands which he had between
the Ribble and the Mersey to the earl, including Boulton, with all its appurtenances, subject to a praefine of
forty marks (£26 : 13:4).
By a charter of ratification, deposited in the custody of Sir Ranulf de Bray, the earl agrees to make a payment of two hundred
marks (£133 : 6:8), and to render annually at Easter a pair of white gloves, or one penny, for these possessions, which are
particularised and described to consist of the manor of Boulton, with all its appurtenances—that is to say, whatever was possessed
by Roger de Maresheya, in the manor of Bolton, in Little Bolton, in Tonge, in Halghe, in Brethmete, in Ratecliffe, in Ormeston,
in Weffeleg, in Sharplis, in Haghe, in Fanedisch, in Longeree, in Sevington, in Chernoc, in Hedchernoc, in Dokesbury, in .
Adelvinton, in Whitall, in Hirelton, in Skaresbreck, in Heton near Lancaster, in Melner, in Derwente, and in Eccleshill, and in
all other places belonging to the said lands.” Roger de Mareshey, after the sale of his possessions between Ribbel and Mersey, held
in chief of the king three knights’ fees in Mereshey (Marshaw), Hotton (Priest Hutton), and Barneby (Barnacre).” In 16 Henry
III. (1231-32) Ranulph de Blundeville, earl of Chester, soon after the completion of his purchase, having granted a charter to his
town of Salford, making it a free borough, died, and his estates, as we haye seen, devolved upon his four co-heiresses, the third of
whom, Agnes, having married William de Ferrers, sixth earl of Derby, had the lands between the Ribble and the Mersey; William,
their eldest son, in 36 Henry III. (1251-2), obtained a charter for free-warren in the manors of Salford, Bowelton, Penelton,
Swinehurst, Burtonewood, and Cherlasch [? Chorley]; as also in Liverpool, West Derby, Evertone, Crosseby, and Wavertre; and
* Coucher Book Com. Lanc. vol. i. fo. 77. Some of these names and the others Longworth, Skevington, Adlington, Whittle, Mellor,
cannot now be identified. Probably Fanedisch should be Standish, Darwen, etc. * Testa de Wevill, fol. 398.



548 (Liſt ºffigturg of £ancashire.
for a market and fair in the manor of Bolton." In 50 Henry III. (1266) Robert de Ferrers, eighth earl of Derby, forfeited his estates,
which were granted, on the 28th June in the same year, to Edmund Crouchback, earl of Lancaster,” but by an inquis, post
mortem, 25 Edward I. num. 51 (1297), the earl does not appear to have had any possessions in the hundred of Salford, though
other lands formerly belonging to the Ferrers are enumerated, in West Derby, Leyland, and Amounderness, in that document.
By another inquisition of 16 Edward I. (1288), twenty-three years after the grant to Edmund, earl of Lancaster, and nine years
before his death, William de Ferrers, earl of Derby, died possessed of the manor of Bolton in the wapentake of Salford, and of the
wapentake and bailiwick of Leyland.” In 20 Edward I. (1292) Christiana, wife of Thomas, son of Matilda de Bolton, brought her
writ of dower at Lancaster on the octaves of the Holy Trinity, against John, archbishop of York, and Edmund, the king's brother,
for a tenement in Bolton, and recovered her right.” In 1 Edward III. (1327) Thomas, earl of Lancaster, died seised of the manor
of Salford, the manor of Bolton, and of a place called Hyde Park;” and in 35 Edward III., (1361), the inquisition on the death of
Henry, duke of Lancaster, enumerates among the fees held of the Honor of Tuttebury—Bolton, Brightmet, Asphull, and Lostock.
In 45 Edward III. (1371) the manor of Bolton-super-Moram, and the wapentake of Salford, the manors of West Derby, Chorley,
and Croston, the suit and service of the court of Penwortham, and estates in other counties, are found in the possession of William
de Ferrers of Groby, and Margaret his wife, daughter of Henry de Percy, and relict of Robert the son of Gilbert de Umfraville, earl
of Angus." This lady had Chorley assigned to her as part of her dower." From the Ferrers the manor of Bolton appears to have
passed into the family of the Harringtons, for on the attainder and conviction of Sir James Harrington, in the reign of Henry VII.,8
for his adherence to the cause of Richard III., his manors and lands, amongst which is enumerated Bolton-Super-Moras, became the
property of Sir Henry [Edmund] Stanley, knight, Lord Monteagle,” which manor is found in the possession of the Stanleys in 13
Henry VIII. (1521), on the death of Thomas, earl of Derby, by whom it was held of the king, with the manors of Chetham and
Chetewoode.” The manor of Great Bolton is now held by separate lords in the proportions following —The earl of Derby, the earl
of Bradford, and the Rev. Mr. Freeman, each one-fourth ; the remaining fourth is held by Mr. Claughton and the representatives
of the Levers, two-thirds by the former and one-third by the latter. Notwithstanding the loss of property sustained by James, earl
of Derby, from his unshaken adherence to the ungrateful family of the Stuarts, the present earl of Derby still inherits larger
possessions in the Bolton division of the hundred of Salford than any other landed proprietor.
The manor of Little Bolton, mentioned in the charter of Roger de Mareshey, was held by the family of Bolton, soon after the
death of Ranulph de Blundeville. William de Bothelton, says the Testa de Nevill, held a bovate of land in chief of our lord the
king in fee-farm ; his heir is in wardship of our lord the king. Roger de Bothelton holds one carucate of the heir of Ranulph
Fitz-Roger, by the service of the twelfth part of one knight's fee. This Ranulph held four carucates in chief of the king by ten
shillings, and finding a judger for the court; his heir was in wardship of Eustace de Moreton for the king.”
In Birch's MS. (a Feodarium drawn up in the time of Henry, duke of Lancaster), Roger de Myddleton is said to hold a
hamlet, which is called Bolton, by homage and service of eleven pence for ward of Lancaster Castle, to be rendered yearly at the
feast of St. John the Baptist, and 2s. 6d. per annum for sake-fee at the four terms of the year by the service of the twelfth part of
one knight's fee ; and in the same record Richard de Bolton is said to hold Little Bolton in thanage by the service of sixteen
shillings per annum. Roger de Bolton is said to hold of our lord the duke of Lancaster the sixteenth part of one knight's fee in
Little Bolton in Salford, which his ancestors formerly held of the earl of Ferrers as of the king. In 20 Henry VII. (1504-5) Roger
de Bolton was seised of this manor,” and in 2 James I. (1604) Robert de Bolton had messuages and lands in Little Bolton.” It was
settled by Thomas Marsden of Bolton, gentleman, on his wife Sarah, daughter of William Croxton, esq., in 1700; and was sold,
as directed by his will, to John Moss of Manchester, woollen-draper, in 1716. This John Moss, by his will (14th April 1729) de-
vised the manor to his eldest son John (except the tithes of corn in Little Bolton and Tonge, which he thereby gave in trust for the
minister of the chapel (of All Saints) in Little Bolton for the time being for ever, who settled the same in 1733 on his wife Mary
Bower. Their issue was one son, James Moss, who, in 1764, settled the manor on his wife Appylina, daughter of James Bayley of
Manchester, esq. Dying intestate and without issue, Mr. Moss's estates descended to his cousin-german and heir-at-law John
Gartside of Manchester, esq., who by will (7th July 1817) devised this manor and other estates to his nephew Thomas Tipping,
esq., who by his will (2d October 1844) settled the same on trustees for the use of his son, Edmund Joseph Tipping of Davenport
Hall, Cheshire, the present manorial owner.”
In the reign of Henry VIII. Leland gives the following description of Bolton —
“Bolton upon Moore Market,” says he, “stondith most by cottons and cowrse yarne. Divers villages in the Mores about
Bolton do make cottons. Nother the site nor the ground aboute Bolton is so good as it is aboute Byri. They burne at Bolton sum
canale, but more se Cole, of the wich the pittes be not far of They burne Turfe also.” The “cottons” here spoken of by Leland
were in reality woollens, the cotton manufacture not having been introduced into England till at least half-a-century after the life
of the learned itinerant had terminated in a state of mental alienation. As early as the year 1337 a number of Flemish clothiers
settled in this place, and brought over their craft with the laudable ambition of making their fortunes, or, as those who brought
them quaintly expressed it, with the expectation “that their beds would be good, and their bedfellows better, seeing that the
richest yeomen in England would not disdain to marry their daughters to them.” -
After the revocation of the Edict of Nantes, in 1685, a number of French refugee manufacturers, attracted
by the trade of the place, took up their settlement here; and in the reign of Queen Anne, in the early part
of the eighteenth century, an accession was made to the number of the emigrants by the arrival of weavers in
the county palatine of Lancaster from the palatinate of the Rhine. Camden does not mention the town of
Bolton, though he speaks of Cockley, Turton Tower, and Entwissell:—
“As I was seeking eagerly,” says he, “near the Irwell for CocCIUM mentioned by Antoninus, I saw Cockley [Cockey], a
wooden chapel among trees, Turton chapel among precipices and wastes, Turton Tower and Entwissel, two houses whereof the
latter had noble proprietors of its own name, and the former is now the residence of the illustrious family of Orell.”
In the battle of Flodden Field, so memorable in our county history, the fame of the Bolton men, who
1 Rot. Chart. 36 Hen. mem. 24, in Turr. Londin. ; and Duchy * Duchy Records, vol. v. inquis. post mortem, 15 Hen. VII.
Records, Repert. Bag A, p. 18, num. 28. num. 64.
* Pat. 5 Hen. III. mem. 12. 10 Ibid. inquis. 13 Hen. VIII. num. 68.
3 Escoef. 16 Edw. I. num. 27. 11 Testa de Wevill, fol. 405.
* Placita de Juratis et Assisis coram Hugone de Cressingham, fo. * Duchy Records, vol. i. num. 14. 13 Ibid. Vol. xix. n. 16.
20. MS. in the Chapter-House, Westminster. * Note by Rev. Canon Raines, in Notitia Cestriensis, ii. 6.
5 Escaei, 1 Edw. III. num. 88. - * Itinerary VII. p. 56.
6 Escaei. 45 Edw. III. num. 22. 7 Ibid. * Fuller's Church. History, p. 110.
8 Rot. Parl, vol. vi. p. 275. * Britannia, Gough's 2d edit. vol. iii. p. [375].
Bumrºn of $alfort—33dſton tarish. 549
fought under Sir Edward Stanley, is celebrated in language which conveys a strong impression of their
courage and prowess:—
“Wºº fellowes fearce and freshe for feight,
Wº Halton feilds did turne in foores,
W* lustie ladds liuer and light
From Blackborne and Bolton in ye Moores.”
The alarm of the Spanish invasion, in 1588, called forth the most striking demonstrations of patriotism in
this town and neighbourhood; the beacon on Rivington Pike was for months ready to blaze forth on the
appearance of the invaders, and to call into active operation the great body of the male population, led on
by the gentry of the district. About this time flourished Richard Rothwell, the exorcist, a nonconformist
divine, and a native of Bolton, whose life and marvellous contests with, and triumph over, the devil, stand
recorded in the works of the Rev. Stanley Gower of Dorchester, in a strain well suited to the age of witch-
craft and demoniacal possession. During the civil wars of Charles I, this town, “the Geneva of Lancashire,”
as it was called, was the first place in the kingdom to raise a militia force under the authority of Parliament,
and witnessed more of the horrors of war than any other town in the county of Lancaster. The main body
of the inhabitants, like those of Manchester, embraced the cause of the Parliament, and a garrison in that
interest was maintained in Bolton. A connected history of the civil wars of the Commonwealth in the county
of Lancaster having already been given in this work, it will be merely necessary, in the parish histories, to
notice those historical transactions within this period which possess a local interest.
The first operation of the garrison at Bolton was undertaken by Captain Bradshaw and Captain Venables, who marched against
Wigan with their two companies, but when within a short distance of the town, they were met by a large body of the cavaliers, and
captured, after a desperate struggle” (Dec. 17, 1642). In February 1643,” while part of the garrison was employed in the attack upon
Hoghton Tower, the earl of Derby despatched a strong force from Wigan under Captain Anderton of Lostock, Captain Anderton of
Burchley, and Sir Gilbert Garrard, to carry the town of Bolton by assault. The first attack was made upon the Works at the entrance
to Bradshaw Gate, and though the garrison had “three sconces” established at this point, such was the fury of the onset, that they
were beaten from the works, and obliged to retire towards a mud wall and chain within the town, the wall being two yards thick.
Having carried the outworks, the assailants came furiously upon the mud wall, which they attempted to force with their ordnance,
with balls of five or six pounds' weight ; but such was the gallantry of the resistance made by the Parliamentary forces under Colonel
Ashton, that they were repulsed. Undismayed by their repulse, they again advanced up to the mouths of the muskets of the
garrison, and attempted to seize them with their hands. , All this carnage proved unavailing, and they were finally beaten off, taking
with them two or three cart-loads of dead bodies, and leaving behind them twelve dead, and numbers mortally wounded. Soon
after the retreat of the earl of Derby's forces, Captain Radcliffe arrived with reinforcements for the town from Manchester, and about
the same time two hundred clubmen arrived from Middleton, Ouldham, and Rochdale.* . On their retreat from Bolton, the enemy
set fire to two or three houses, which the inhabitants pulled down to prevent the spread of the conflagration. The attack upon
Bolton was resumed by the earl of Derby's forces on the 28th of March. At three o'clock in the afternoon of that day, the town
was summoned to surrender, but they resolved to adhere to “the king and parliament.” At the close of the day, while the soldiers
were at prayers, a furious assault was made, and some of the cavaliers leaped upon the walls, where they were assailed by clubs from
within. During the night they made another attack upon the south end of the town, to which they attempted to set fire; but they
were again repulsed with the loss of three-and-twenty men. Inspired with confidence by these repeated successes, the garrison
marched against Wigan, which they captured with little difficulty; but, on the approach of a formidable force under the earl of
Derby, they abandoned the town, and marched back to Bolton.” These operations were the forerunners of a terrible and Sanguinary
conflict, now approaching; and the fatal character of which the repeated defeats and disappointments of the earl of Derby served
only to aggrayate. On the appearance of Prince. Rupert in the north, the works at Bolton, which consisted principally of a thick
mud wall, defended by cannon and surrounded with a wide and deep fosse, were materially strengthened, and Colonel Rigby, who
had been for three months engaged in the siege of Latham House, retreated with his army of two thousand men to this place. The
prince, whose first object was to raise the siege of Latham, haying effected that purpose by his approach at the head of 10,000 men,6
marched to Bolton, where he arrived on the 28th of May 1644, and was joined by the earl of Derby from the Isle of Man. By two
o'clock in the afternoon of that day, the whole force was assembled on the moor at the south-west of the town. Here a council of
war was called, and it was resolved to carry the place by storm. The assault was made with great gallantry and resolution, but
being met with equal firmness on the part of the garrison, consisting now of 3000 troops under the command of Colonel Rigby, the
assailants were obliged to retreat, under a galling fire of cannon and musketry, and with the loss of two hundred men. A second
council of war was now called, and a second onset resolved upon. . The earl of Derby, feeling how much the future safety of his own
family and the interests of the royal cause were concerned in the issue, requested the prince to allow him two companies of his old
soldiers, under the command of Colonel Tyldesley, and to confide to his lordship the post of honour, which was to command the
yan, declaring that he would either carry the town or leave his body in the ditch. With this request the prince complied reluctantly,
from a disinclination to hazard a person of so much consequence in so dangerous a service. After due preparation the prince gave
orders for the second assault, and the earl of Derby, at the head of his two hundred Lancashire men, principally his tenants and
their sons, marched directly to the walls. Here the conflict was again renewed with desperate resolution on both sides. While the
battle was raging in this quarter, the prince's cavalry, treacherously conducted, as it is said, by a townsman, entered the streets at
the Private Acres, and spread a general panic." . The people flew in all directions before the enemy's horse, to which it was in vain
to offer further resistance, and all that remained for the garrison was to save themselves by flight. The royal forces rushed into
every quarter of the town, and put great numbers to the sword, pursuing their victory not only in the town, but some miles round,
in outhouses, fields, highways, and woods, killing, destroying, and spoiling almost all they met, and, as the inhabitants allege,
1 Mercurius Belgicus, May 28, 1644. they had shott greate cannons against bolton 14 tymes, yett
* Rare Tracts in the King's Lib. No. lxxxviii. repulsed. Killed 16th, buried 17th.”
* The parish register has the following entry —“Ffebuary * Rare Tracts, No. xcvi.
1642" [1643]—“The burials of four soldiers, three inhabitants, * Valley of Achor.
and six rebels. All these were slayne in a verrey hott skirmish att * Rushworth's Historical Coll., vol. v. p. 623.
Bolton, lasting 4 hours. It was Thursday feb. 16, and the rebells * About twenty years ago, a cannon-ball, 2% inches in diameter,
of Wiggan were beaten back abowte 4 of clock in the afternoone, and weighing over 3 lbs., now in the possession of the Corporation,
550 Čije #igtúrg of £antagüíre.
denying quarter and using other violences, besides totally plundering the town. Amongst the slain, it was said, were four ministers
of religion-Heyricke, Tilsbury, Harpur, and Fogg—and it afterwards became a matter of serious and frequent declamation in
parliament, that a foreign prince should be allowed to exercise so much severity upon the lives of the English in their own country.”
It was alleged, in extenuation of this severity, that Colonel Rigby had caused an officer, sent by the prince with a summons, to be
put to death in his sight; but the name of the officer is not mentioned, and the fact is denied by the Parliamentary party. Against
the earl of Derby it is alleged that he caused Captain Bootle to be put to death, after quarter had been given,” and that the cruelties
practised after Bolton was in the hands of the assailants were contrived by his lordship. Colonel Rigby, the commander of the
Parliamentary forces, retreated out of the town and took the route to Yorkshire, by which many of his men escaped from the
general carnage. As a just tribute to the gallant and intrepid countess of Derby, Charlotte de la Tremouille, the colours taken at
Bolton were sent to that lady by her illustrious relative, Prince Rupert, under charge of Sir Richard Lane, and received by her as
a mark of peculiar honour. Such were the sufferings produced by the civil wars in Lancashire, that an ordinance was passed by
parliament, that the officers and Soldiers who had, under Colonel Rigby and Colonel Richard Shuttleworth, at Bolton, lost limbs,
or been otherwise maimed, and the women and children whose husbands or fathers had been slain, should be pensioned out of the
Sequestrated estates of the papists and delinquents. Without impugning the general accuracy of the representations made by
Whitelock and Rushworth, an examination into the facts of the storm and “massacre” of Bolton leads to the conclusion that not
one of the ministers, said to have been slain on that occasion, actually lost his life. A narrative of the transactions of the day,
written by an eye-witness, and published by authority of parliament,” makes no mention of the name of any minister amongst the
slain, though several other names are stated; and one of the main objects of the writer seems to have been to portray, in the most
vivid colours, the excesses committed by Prince Rupert and the earl of Derby. It further appears, that in the Lancashire Presby.
terical Classis, instituted by authority of parliament in 1646—that is, two years after the fall of Bolton—Mr. Richard Heyricke
stands at the head of the ministers in the first classis; John Harper at the head of the second ; John Tilsley in the same classis; and
John Fogg in the fifth classis. On the 9th of May 1648, a declaration, issued from Bolton by Nicholas Shuttleworth, Hugh
Bradshaw, Ughtred Shuttleworth, James Chantrell, Richard Radcliffe, and John Ashurst, declared, on behalf of the officers and
Soldiers of the county palatine of Lancaster, that they owned the solemn league and covenant, and that they would stand for the
fundamental government of King, Lords, and Commons; but the execution of the king in the early part of the following year, and
the virtual abolition of the upper house of parliament, do not appear to have called forth any strong demonstration from this quarter.
The fate of the monarchy was now sealed; and the overthrow of the army of Charles II. by the forces under Oliver Cromwell,
in the disastrous battle of Worcester, led, as has been seen, to the capture of James, earl of Derby, in Cheshire, where, being brought
to trial before a military tribunal, he was sentenced to die at Bolton. This place seems to have been selected as the scene of his
suffering, on account of the part which his lordship had taken in the excesses that followed the surrender of the town of Bolton to
Prince Rupert, seven years before. The trial took place on Saturday, the 11th of October 1651, and on the Wednesday following,
being the day appointed for his execution, his lordship arrived in Bolton about mid-day, under a military escort of two troops of
horse and a company of foot-soldiers. The public sympathy was strongly excited in his favour. His lordship alighted near the
Cross; and going into a room with some of his friends and servants, had time allowed him till three o’clock in the afternoon. This
interval he spent principally in prayer, and in relating how he had lived, and how he had prepared to die. The fear of death, he
said, was no trouble to him ; and his only care was for his wife and children; but he was satisfied to commit them to God. On the
Scaffold, which was built at the Market Cross,” he preserved the equanimity of his deportment, and, having placed himself at the
east end of the scaffold, he made the following address to the people —% -
“I come, and am content to die in this town, where I endeavoured to come the last time when I was in Lancashire, as to a place
where I persuaded myself to be welcome, in regard the people thereof have reason to be satisfied in my love and affection to them ; and
that now they understand sufficiently. I am no man of blood, as some have falsely slandered me, especially in the killing of a captain in
this town ; whose death is declared on Oath, so as the time and place now appears under the hand of a master in Chancery, besides the
several attestations of a gentleman of honour in the kingdom, who was in the fight in this town, and of others of good report, both in the
town and country; and I am confident there are some in this place who can witness my mercy and care for sparing many men's lives that
day. As for my crime (as some are pleased to call it), to come into this country with the King, I hope it deserves a better name ; for I .
did it in obedience to his call whom I hold myself obliged to obey, according to the protestation I took in Parliament in his father's
time. I confess I love monarchy, and I love my master Charles, the second of that name, whom I myself proclaimed in this country to
be king. The Lord bless him and preserve him. I assure you he is the most goodly, virtuous, valiant, and most discreet King that I
know lives this day; and I wish so much happiness to this people after my death, that he may enjoy his right, and then they cannot
want their rights. I profess here, in the presence of God, I always sought for peace, and I had no other reason; for I wanted neither
means nor honours, nor did I seek to enlarge either. By my king's predecessors mine were raised to an high condition, it is well known
to the country ; and it is as well known, that by his enemies I am condemned to suffer by new and unknown laws. The Lord send us our
King again, and Our old laws again, and the Lord send us our religion again. As for that which is practised now, it has no name, and
methinks there is more talk of religion than any good effects of it. Truly to me it seems I die for God, the king, and the laws, and this
makes me not to be ashamed of my life, nor afraid of my death.” At which words, “ The King and Laws,” a trooper cried, “We have
no King, and we will have no Lords.” Then some sudden fear of mutiny fell among the soldiers, and his lordship was interrupted ;
which some of the officers were troubled at, and his friends much grieved, his lordship having freedom of speech promised him. His
lordship seeing the troopers scattered in the streets, cutting and slashing the people with their swords, said, “What's the matter,
gentlemen ; where's the guilt 7 I fly not, and here is none to pursue you?” Then his lordship, perceiving he might not speak freely,
turned himself to his servant, and gave him his paper, and commanded him to let the world know what he had to say had he not been
disturbed ; which is as follows, as it was in my lord’s paper under his own hand —“My sentence (upon which I am brought hither)
was by a council of war, nothing in the captain's case alleged against me; which council I had reason to expect would have justified my
plea for quarter, that being an ancient and honourable plea amongst soldiers, and not violated (that I know of) till this time, that I am
made the first suffering precedent in this case. I wish no other suffer in the like case. Now I must die, and am ready to die, I thank
my God, with a good conscience, without any malice, or any ground whatever ; though others would not find mercy upon me, upon
just and fair grounds; SO my Saviour prayed for his enemies, and so do I for mine. As for my faith and my religion, thus much
I have at this time to Say: I profess my faith to be in Jesus Christ, who died for me, , from whom I look for my salvation, that
is, through his only merit and sufferings. And I die a dutiful son of the church of England, as it was established in my late master's
time and reign, and is yet professed in the Isle of Man, which is no little comfort to me. I thank my God for the quiet of my
conscience at this time, and the assurance of those joys that are prepared for those that fear him. Good people, pray for me; I do for
you. The God of heaven bless you all, and send you peace. That God that is truth itself, give you grace, peace, and truth. Amen.”
and deposited in the Museum, was found under the pavement of before his execution ; and it has been satisfactorily refuted in the
Old or Private Acres, that had, no doubt, been shot on this occasion. Stanley Papers, part iii.-H. * Rare Tracts, No. cv.
1 Rushworth’s Historical Collections, vol. ii. part iii. p. 623. * This ancient Market Cross was removed in the year 1776.
* Whitelock's Mem. p. 85. ° Ea, M.S. penes James, late earl of Derby. (From Mr. Baguley's
3 This allegation the earl denied on the scaffold, a few moments account.)
#umbrel of $alfort—33dlton 33arisiſ. 551
The tumult having subsided, his lordship took the axe in his hand and kissed it ; and afterwards
laying his head upon the block, with his face to the church, and committing his wife and children to God, he
twice exclaimed—
“Blessed be God's gracious name for ever and ever. Amen.
“Let the whole earth be filled with his glory. Amen.”
He then gave the signal by lifting up his hand, and the executioner struck off his head at one blow. On
the following day the remains of the noble victim were conveyed from Bolton to Ormskirk, and interred in
the family vault of the Stanleys.” -
It is principally to these agitated times that the following singular inscription on a tombstone in Bolton
churchyard refers:–
“JOHN OKEY, the servant of God, was borne in London 1608 Came into this towne in 1629 Maried Mary, the daughter of james
Crompton of Breightmet 1635 with whom he lived comfortably 20 yeares, & begot 4 Sonns and 6 daughters since then he lived sole till
the day of his death. In his time were many Great Changes & terrible alterations—18 yeares Civill Wars in England besides many dreadfull
sea-fights the Crown or Command of England changed 8 times episcopacy laid aside 14 yeares—London burnt by Papists & more stately
built againe—Germany Wasted 300 miles 200000 protestants murdered in Ireland by the Papists this towne thrice stormed once taken
& plundered. He went thorow many troubles & divers Conditions found rest joy & happines only in holines the faith feare and loue of God
in Jesus Christ He dyed the 29 of Ap & lieth here buried 1684. Come Lord Iesus o come quickly. Holines is mans happines. DOMINE
NOS DIRIGE. OMNIA SAL SAVIT.”
The inscription is still legible, and has at the foot the arms of Okey. It appears from the MS. of
T}orning Rasbotham, esq., that a tradition, which was generally believed, prevailed in Bolton that this John
Okey was one of the judges of King Charles I., but the arms upon the stone do not correspond with the
regicide's seal; and there is still stronger evidence to disprove the identity, for, according to the State Trials,
Colonel John Okey, after being executed on the 19th of April 1662, was quartered, and his mangled remains
interred in the Tower of London.
Bolton is not named in the Valor of Pope Nicholas, probably because it was annexed to the archdeaconry
of Chester. Before the Reformation, however, a church existed here, as is proved by the preaching of some of
the martyrs; and on the institution of the bishopric of Chester, 33 Henry VIII. (1541), the king annexed to
that see the prebend of Bolton-le-Moors, in Lichfield cathedral. In 1534 it is described as a curacy and a pre-
bend of Lichfield, and is said to be valued, along with the archdeaconry of Chester, at £65: 10s. In the Liber
Regis, Bolton church, dedicated to St. Peter, is styled a vicarage, and valued at £10:3s., in the patronage of the
bishop of Chester. Since the erection of the see of Manchester, the patronage vests in the bishop of the new
See ; the registers begin in 1587. The church stood on an eminence at the eastern extremity of the town.
It was a plain ancient pile, constructed of the dark red stone of the district, in two divisions, with a porch
bearing the initials of William Lightburne, gent. (with the date 1694), by whom this portion of the edifice
was built. The tower was capacious, but low. The interior of the church consisted of a nave and two side-
aisles, divided by massive pillars plainly fluted, forming ten large arches, which supported the three spacious
galleries. There were stalls in the church; the eagle and child, the crest of the Stanleys, was carved under-
neath a movable seat. Several members of the family of the Bartons of Smithells Hall were interred here.
Sir Thomas Barton, knight, was buried in the choir in 1659; and under an adjoining stone the remains of
Sir Rowland Bellasis, K.B., and Lady Anne, his wife, repose. Sir Rowland was buried from Smithells Hall,
in 1699, by torch-light ; the ceremony made a durable impression in the neighbourhood, and the aged people
more than half-a-century afterwards were accustomed to speak of it as extremely imposing. The following
epitaphs record their interment – -
“Here resteth the body of the Honorble Sir Thos Barton, of Smethells, Knt., departed the 17th of July, and was buried the 17th of
August 1659.-Lady Ann Bellasys, Wife of ye Honor” Sir Rowland Bellasys, of Smethells, Knt. of the Bath, was interred the 13th of
Novº 1677.” On an adjoining stone—“Here resteth the body of the Honorble Sir Rowland Bellasys, of Smethells, Knt. of the Bath, who
was here inferred the 16” of August 1699.” Upon a tablet in the wall of a chapel to the north of the altar:—“To the memory of
Humphrey Chetham, Esq., Founder of the Hospital and Library at Manchester, A.D. 1651, under the direction of 24 Governors, for
the maintenance and education of 60 Boys, the number in this present year, 1730, of which 15 are chosen out of Bolton and 8 out of
Turton.”
Upon a large bookcase in the same chapel (now in the reading-room of Chetham's Library, Manchester),
which contains some books, purchased out of the bequest of this benefactor, is inscribed—“The gift of
Humphrey Chetham, Esq., 1655.” -
A handsome mural tablet, of white marble, was placed in 1833, by public subscription, in the south
wall of this church to the memory of Lieutenant-colonel Fletcher, an active magistrate of the county palatine
of Lancaster acting for this district, who died on the 22d of February 1832, at the age of 74 years.
We have seen that Bolton was not amongst the original parishes of Lancashire; the church, however,
was of late Tudor architecture, but there is no record to show by whom it was built, nor any inscription
* For the best account of the last days and moments of the by the Rev. Canon Raines, vols. 66, 67, and 70 of the Chetham
unfortunate earl of Derby, see the Stanley Papers, part iii., edited Society's series.—H. * See p. 300.
552 Qſìje #igtorg of 3Lantagiſtrt.
coeval with the date of the structure. Towards the latter part of the last century the north and south sides
were repaired. The east window and wall of the chancel were repaired by the Lostock estate, formerly in
the possession of Sir Francis Anderton, but now the property of the Blundells of Ince; the north wall and
window by the Bradshaw estate, formerly the property of the Bradshaws; the south wall and window by
an estate in Little Bolton, once possessed by the Manders, afterwards by John and James Moss, and subse-
quently by John Garside, esq. In the chancel was a beautiful stained-glass window, presented by the late
vicar, the Rev. James Slade ; on its south side was another to the memory of the late William Bolling, esq.,
M.P. ; and a third on the north side, erected by public subscription as a testimonial to the late vicar on
resigning the vicarage in 1856, after nearly forty years' ministration. The stained-glass windows will be
placed in the new church. The beautiful font of Caen stone was presented by the late Matthew Dawes, esq.,
F.G.S., F.S.A. The organ is the largest and most powerful in the neighbourhood. The earliest entry in the
church-register bears the date January 21st 1587. This register was found several years ago under a slab,
beneath one of the stalls, near the pulpit. In the grave-yard is a plain but appropriate monument, recently
erected over the grave of Samuel Crompton, inventor of the “Mule.” To the north of the chancel was a
chapel, once belonging to the Chethams of Turton, whose arms were upon the window, and subsequently to
the Greenes. To the south of the chancel was another chapel, the property of Sir Henry Bridgman. The
arms of the Bridgman family were upon a window, and upon the south window those of Bridgman, bishop
of Chester, as bishop of this diocese." In 1587 the baptisms are obliterated, but the number of marriages
is 36, and burials 46. The following year the baptisms amount to 28, marriages to 25, and of burials to 77.
In 1623, when the plague raged in Lancashire, the number of burials at the parish church of Bolton amounted
to nearly 500. In the beginning of the two following centuries the numbers stood thus:— -
A. D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials. A.D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials.
1600 º & 140 31 120 1700 e g 150 50 190
1601 $ & 200 30 80 1701 t & I52 55 200
According to the register, Edmund Hopwood, esq., magistrate, the general parliamentary high-priest
of these parts, published the banns of marriage in 1659 at the Market Cross. In 1642-3, several soldiers,
who, no doubt, fell in the first attack made upon the town by the earl of Derby, were buried here; and
in May 1644, when the town was carried by storm by Prince Rupert, the names of 78 soldiers appear in
the parish register, and doubtless many others, whose names were unknown, were interred in common
graves. In the year of the earl of Derby's execution (1651) no register was kept, or at least none has been
preserved.
The parish church, being built of perishable stone, exhibited so many symptoms of decay that, in
January 1864, a meeting of the parishioners was held to consider its condition. It was pronounced to be
too far decayed to admit of repair, and it was determined to build a new church on the site. In November
1865 Mr. P. Ormrod of Halliwell Hall, banker and cotton-spinner, munificently engaged to pay the entire
cost of rebuilding the church, which it was estimated would amount to £30,000. Early in 1866 the last
service was held in the old edifice, which had stood for about four centuries. The rest of the year was em-
ployed in removing that structure and preparing the foundations for a new one. On Saturday, April 27,
1867, the foundation-stone of the new parish church was laid by Mr. P. Ormrod, in the presence of the
bishop of Manchester, the Rev. H. Powell, vicar of Bolton, Mr. William Gray, M.P. (one of the borough
members), and a numerous assemblage of the inhabitants of the borough. The design for the new church is
by Mr. E. G. Paley of Lancaster. It is in the Decorated style, and embraces a nave with north and south
aisles, north and south transepts, a chancel with an aisle on the south, and Organ-chapel on the north, and a
tower and porch. The dimensions of the nave are 114 feet in length, 33 feet 3 inches in breadth, and 73
feet 9 inches from the floor-line to the apex of the roof. The aisles are to be 89 feet long by 17 feet wide.
The chancel will measure 41 feet by 31 feet. The transepts are to be 25 feet long by 22 feet wide. The
principal entrance to the church will be through the tower, which is to be at the western end of the church,
and more than 150 feet high. The porch will form the southern entrance to the church. The entire area of
the new building will be 10,819 square feet, or nearly twice the area of the old one. There will be no
galleries, but the ground-floor will afford sittings for 1300 persons. The stone used from the ground to the
top of the base-course, and also for the plain work of the tower, is from the Bradshaw Quarry; and for the
body of the edifice above the base-course, and also for the ornamental work, Longridge stone will be used.
Messrs. Cooper and Tullis of Preston are the contractors, and it is expected that the work will occupy
about two years. . *.
The following is a list of the vicars of Bolton from the end of the fifteenth century to the present time,
with the date of their respective institutions, the patrons of the advowson, and the cause of the vacancies,
extracted principally from documents in the episcopal registry office at Chester —
* MS. notes of the late Dorning Rasbotham, esq. There is now no north window.—B.
Bumrºn of Salton–Bolton Barish. 553
WICARS OF BOLTON.
Date of Institution. Vicars. On whose Presentation. Cause of Wacancy.
Rich. Leyvor . © o . | Prior and Convent of Marrossey, dio-
cese of York. - -
Jan. 27, 1503. James Smithley e g O. º º Rich. Leyvor's death.
James Bolton * º . . The Bishop of Chester.
Oct. 20, 1556. | Thos. Pendleburie . e Do. º • James Bolton's death.
Edw. Cockrell - ſº c T}o.
Aug. 7, 1582. Alex. Smythe • . . . Barnard Anderton . e & . | Edw. Cockrell's death.
April 7, 1594. Geo. Chrychley . e . | The Bishop of Chester . º . Alex. Smythe's death.
Jaspur Saundres o ſº Do. -
Sept. 29, 1597. Ellis Saunderson . e e Do. & • º g . . Jaspur Saundres' resignation.
Dec. 16, 1625. Robert Parke - º º Do.
1630. William Gregg" . g p Do. º º ſº g . . Ellis Saunderson's death.
Aug. 12, 1644. | Michael Stanford : º e Do.
John Harper and Richard
Goodwin - e gº Do. e e & o . Ejected 1662.
1663. Robt. Harper - o g Do.
1673. John Lever . - º e Do.
Dec. 1, 1691. Peter Haddon . e g Do. -
Sept. 14, 1721. | Thos. Morrell - º º Do. & º º g . | Peter Haddon's death.
Nov. 23, 1737. Edw. Whitehead . - e Do. - - º º . | Thos. Morrell’s death.
1789. Jeremiah Gilpin . º e Do.
Nov. 27, 1793. | Thos. Bancroft º º t Do. -
March 9, 1811. John Brocklebank . º o Do. - e e º . | Thos. Bancroft's death.
Sept. 23, 1817. James Slade . . . . . . Do. . . . . . . John Brocklebank's resignation.
1857. H. Powell, present vicar e Do. e º & g . . James Slade's resignation.
The vicarage near the church is an ancient and interesting edifice.
Under the “New Parishes Act,” Christ Church; St. John's ; St. Paul's, Sharples; St. Stephen's, Lever-
bridge; St. James's, Breightmet; Belmont, and Blackrod, were constituted independent parishes for ecclesiastical
purposes; and Holy Trinity Church was so constituted under the “Million Act.” On the voidance of the
vicarage by the resignation of the late Canon Slade, in 1856, the other districts within the old parish also
claimed the right to become separate parishes; but their claim was disputed by the present vicar, the Rev.
H. Powell, and has not been decided. He claims the right to marry persons living in the disputing districts,
but does not claim the fees of marriages, baptisms, etc., celebrated at other chapels, as former vicars did.
In 1622 the Rev. James Gosnell founded a lectureship in connection with this parish, by bequeathing
four-sixths of the rent of a farm of £80 per annum at Balderstone. Till the passing of the Act of Uniformity
in 1662, the lecturer preached at the Old Market Cross in Church Gate, and since that time in the old
parish church on Sunday afternoons. In 1691 the living of the lecturer was augmented by Hulme's charity,
consisting of 19 acres 1 rood 23 poles of land in Bolton Moor, which at the present time produces an annual
rental of £535; 1:8; though there still remain 24,384 square yards unbuilt upon, which will probably realise
from £400 to £500 per annum more. In 1858 a scheme for the redistribution of this estate was sanctioned
by the Vice-Chancellor. The funds are now disposed of as follows:–To the vicar (to increase his stipend to
£350), £100 per annum; to the lecturer (the vicar's curate), £150 ; to the incumbent of St. Paul's, £100;
to the incumbent of St. Mark's, £120. The remainder is to be devoted to the endowment of new churches.
CHURCHES IN THE OLD PARISH.
Name of Church. Date of Consecration. No. of Sittings. Free.
3. º 1424 : * - - -
BoITON.—St. Peter's (old parish church) | rebuilt 1700 | Rebuilding.
22 All Saints . º - º º º 1752 400 100
2 3 St. George's . - - e º e 1796 I800 400
,, . Holy Trinity tº º e g º I826 I904 I000
2 3 Emmanuel . º • º & º 1837 753 362
2 3 Christ Church (formerly Ebenezer chapel) 1844 600 400
2 3 St. John's . & -> º g -> 1849 I000 All.
2 2 St. Paul’s . º - e * º I865 1172
2 3 St. James' . e - - g . In course of erection.
2 - | To be commenced
22 St. Mark’s . & o * § in 1858.
BLACKROD–St. Catherine's . - - e - I574 706 203
* When the old parish church was taken down, a gravestone was * This cross had for its base a flight of five circular steps, Sur-
found within the building, near the vestry-door, about a foot below mounted by the shaft bearing date MCCCCLXXXVI. In 1651 a gilt
the surface, to the memory of “William Gregg, died 1644, Vicar iron cross was set upon its summit. It was removed in 1776 for the
for 14 years.” Tradition says that this vicar of Bolton was killed greater convenience of the market, which was held there till 1826.
in the attack on Bolton in 1644. Upon this authority, the name, The fish-market remained there till the market-hall was opened in
which has nowhere else appeared, is inserted in the list of vicars.-H. 1855.-H.
4 B
554 (ſiſt ºigturn of 3Lancašijire.
Nalme of Church. Date of Consecration. No. of Sittings. Free.
• 3 1560
BRADSHAW-St. Maxentius º º g º | rebuilt 1662 200
HARWOOD-Christ Church . º e p e 1840 464 150
LITTLE LEVER—St. Matthew’s, rebuilt 1865 º 1790 818 542
1654
TURTON.—St. Ann's . p - º * e \ rebuilt 1779 1200 350
| remiſſisſi
WALMSLEY-Christ Church . º º . . 1839 660 230
BREIGHTMET-St. James' . * º g º 1855
RIVINGTON.—St. George's . º . . . • 1566 300 250
LEVER BRIDGE—St. Stephen's and All Martyrs . 1844 410 410
SHARPLES-St. Paul's . e - - º - 1836
HALLIWELL–St. Peter's . º - s - 1840 600 150
2 2 St. Paul’s dº - º º e 1848 500 200
BELMONT—St. Peter’s . & º • . ſº 1750 600 200
All Saints' Church, in All Saints' Street, formerly known as “The Chapel in the Fields,” a very plain building, was
consecrated in 1752. It is now in a dilapidated condition, and a considerable sum of money has been raised to rebuild it. St.
George's Church, in St. George's Road, is a plain brick edifice with a lofty square tower, containing eight bells and clock with four
dials. It was built by subscription, and consecrated in 1796. In the chancel is a beautiful stained-glass window in three
compartments, presented by A. R. Varley, esq., in 1855. The centre subject is “Christ blessing little children,” with a figure of
St. John on one side and St. George on the other. A very superior window was erected in 1866 as a memorial to the late James
Scowcroft. The subject is “The Good Samaritan,” and the figures life-size. The walls contain marble monuments to the memory
of Alice, the wife of Peter Ainsworth of Halliwell; Richard Ainsworth ; William Wright, captain of the Bolton Light Horse
Volunteers; Rev. W. Thistlethwaite, incumbent of the church for twenty-nine years; Jonathan Hitchen, warden for forty years;
and James Cross, esq. of Mortfield. In the yard is a neat stone monument, surmounted by a marble urn, over the family-vault of
the Crosses, formerly of Mortfield. Holy Trinity Church, near the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway Station, is the finest
ecclesiastical structure in the town. It is in the early English style of architecture, and cost £13,500. It was opened on the 11th
September 1826. The lofty embattled tower contains a peal of six steel bells, presented by Dr. Chadwick, and a clock with four
illuminated dials. The beautiful chancel window of stained glass represents the “Last Supper.” A beautiful window was erected
by subscription in 1865 to the memory of the late Roger Hampson. Emmanuel Church, in Cannon Street, was built in 1838. It
is in the perpendicular Gothic style, and cost £2200. Its origin is explained in the following inscription under the corner-stone —
“The corner-stone of the church of Emmanuel, in the parish of Bolton, was laid by the Rev. James Slade, A.M., the Vicar, in the
first year of the reign of our Sovereign Lady Queen Victoria, being Wednesday the 22d November 1837. The sum of £500,
originally subscribed for the purchase of plate as a testimonial of respect to the vicar, was, at his request, appropriated towards
the erection and endowment of the church, and the additional sum requisite for the completion of the work was raised by a
general subscription. The church was greatly improved by the addition of a chancel in 1867, at a cost of £500. It con-
tains a neat window in stained glass in three compartments. There is a good parsonage-house adjacent to the church.
St. Paul's Church occupies a commanding position at the west end of Deansgate. It was licensed for divine service November 1863,
and consecrated December 16, 1865. The style is that of the end of the thirteenth century—geometric. It cost £6000, and will
accommodate 1400 persons. St. James's Church is in course of erection. It is situated in Waterloo Street. It will seat 800 persons.
The style is early decorated Gothic, with a tower over the western side of the chancel. It will cost about £6000. St. Mark's,
Lever Street.—The plans of this church are prepared, and it will probably be built in 1868. St. Stephen and All Martyrs' Church,
the district church for Tong-with-Haulgh and Darcy Lever, is the most elegant and ornamental building in this neighbourhood.
It is almost wholly, both internally and externally, constructed of terra cotta. The spire has a most light and graceful appearance,
‘being of open Gothic work in the purest style, designed from the spire of the cathedral at Fribourg, in Switzerland. A model of
the entire church, one-sixth the actual size, was exhibited in the main avenue of the Crystal Palace at the Great Exhibition of 1851.
It was designed by E. Sharpe, esq., architect, of Lancaster. The manufactured material was given John Fletcher, esq., but upwards
of £3000 was expended upon its construction. It stands on an eminence at one end of Bradford Park. The parsonage house and
schools are also of terra cotta. These are all the churches in the Borough.
CHAPELS.
WESLEYAN.—Bridge Street Chapel occupies a commanding position at the corner of Higher Bridge Street and St. George's
Street. It is a large brick edifice built in 1803, and is conveniently arranged internally. Its organ is one of the largest in the
town. The old chapel in Ridgway Gates, built in 1776, is now used as a Sunday school. On its site stood a smaller chapel in
which the celebrated John Wesley frequently preached during the years 1749, 1751, and 1752. Wesley Chapel, in Bradshawgate,
is a very handsome stone building in the perpendicular Gothic style, from designs by Mr. James Simpson of Leeds. It is most
conveniently fitted up to accommodate 1400 persons; nearly 500 seats are free. The excellent organ was built by Mr. Holt of
Leeds, and is blown by his patent hydraulic engine. The school-room underneath will accommodate 700 children. It was opened
July 11, 1851. Cost, £8000. Fletcher Street Chapel was opened in 1861. It has 1150 sittings. Cost, É3500. The building is
of brick with stone dressings, in the Italian style. The old chapel near to it is converted into Sunday and day Schools. Park
Street Chapel is the most elegant chapel in the town. It is in the decorated Gothic style of the thirteenth and fourteenth centuries.
It cost £9500 besides the land. It affords accommodation for 950. It was opened in 1863.
ROMAN CATHOLICS.–SS. Peter and Paul, in Pilkington Street, is an unpretending brick building, erected in 1800. The
Catholics previously had a small chapel in Old Acres. Excellent school-rooms have been erected in connection with this chapel.
St. Marie's, in Palace Street near the Temperance Hall, is of stone, void of ornament. It was completed in 1847. St. Patrick's,
at the head of Mawdsley Street, is the most imposing of the Catholic edifices in the town. It is a meat Gothic building, with a
graceful though not lofty spire. It was opened on St. Patrick's Day 1861. St. Edmund's, in Grime Street, is another unpretending
stone building, completed in 1862. A school-room occupies the basement storey.
INDEPENDENTS.—Duke's Alley Chapel is a meat brick building, the entrance ornamented with fluted stone pilasters. The
original chapel was erected in 1754; the present one in 1853. It stands on the spot where the celebrated Whitfield preached in the
open air. Mawdsley Street Chapel is another plain brick building, with two entrances from Mawdsley Street. It is galleried all
round. It was erected in 1808 at a cost of £2000. It is commonly known as “Jones's Chapel,” from a former minister, the Rev.
William Jones, who laboured there thirty-four years, and gathered a large and zealous congregation. A larger and more imposing
building is intended to be erected on the site of the present chapel and graveyard. The Congregational Chapel, St. George's Road,
was opened in 1863. It is a Gothic building, with a meat tower and lofty spire. The basement is used as a school, etc. Cost,
£6000. It has 1200 sittings. - -
The Unitarian Chapel, in Bank Street, is one of the best religious edifices in the town, but is seen to great disadvantage from
#umbrel of $alfort—360lton 33arígíj. 555
It is in the Gothic style, and was erected in 1856 on the site of one built in 1689. The Presbyterian
Church (St. Andrew's) is a good stone building in the perpendicular Gothic style, erected in 1846. It is opposite the police-office,
near Nelson Square. It has a rather curious, pyramidal lantern-tower in its front elevation. It was erected in 1846. The
Methodist New Connection Chapel, in St. George's Road, was erected in 1852. The front elevation is of exceedingly neat design, in
the Grecian style, and executed in polished stone. The interior is well arranged and elegantly decorated. The other places of
worship in the town are principally of brick, without architectural pretensions. They are—the Independent Methodist Chapel,
Folds Road, built in 1823; the Methodist Free Church, in Albert Place, built 1847; Wesleyan Association Chapel in Bowker's
Row, built 1846; Wew Jerusalem Chapel, Higher Bridge Street, built 1844; Primitive Methodist Chapel, Moor Lane, built 1822;
Primitive Methodist, Higher Bridge Street, erected 1836; Particular Baptist, King Street, built 1824; Wesleyan Refugee Chapel,
Hanover Street, built 1834; and the Friends' Meeting House, Tipping Street, built 1820. Within the borough there are forty-seven
rooms in which religious services are held, many of them occupied by sects of small numerical importance. -
the buildings crowded about it.
The Unitarians have a chapel in Bank Street, Great Bolton, originally Presbyterian, founded in 1696.
The first minister of this chapel was Mr. Robert Seddon, a native of Prestolee, who was ejected from the
rectory of Langley in Derbyshire, and who presented the congregation with the house and land on which
this chapel stands." Oliver Heywood preached here occasionally. On the death of Mr. Seddon, in 1695, he
was succeeded by his nephew, Mr. Samuel Bourn, on whose death, on the 4th of March 1719, he was
succeeded by Mr. Withington. In 1729 Thomas Dixon, M.D., was minister at this place. He was followed
by Mr. Buck, and he by Mr. Philip Holland, who came to Bolton in 1754. Mr. John Holland succeeded his
uncle, and was ordained on the 13th of May 1789. On resigning his charge, on account of ill health, he was
succeeded by Mr. Jones, and he by Mr. Franklin Baker, who was ordained the 23d of September 1824. He
resigned and was succeeded in 1866 by the Rev. Jeffrey Worthington, the present minister.”
The charities of the parish of Bolton are both numerous and important, as the following epitome of
their nature and revenues, derived principally from the nineteenth report of the Parliamentary Commissioners,
published in 1827, will sufficiently prove —
TONGE WITH HAULGH.
School allotment, 4 acres of land, Tonge, Moorgate.
1630. Brownlow's Charity—£40 to maintain a Granary for the Poor, laid out in premises, which produce (distributed in
labour to the poor) . e * #32 () ()
TURTON.
Turton School. This ancient school has a dwelling for the Master. Humphrey Chetham, in 1746, left £1000, of which
two-thirds were to augment the salary of the curate of Turton, and one-third to the Schoolmaster of Turton School.
About 40 Boys and Girls receive instruction.
1748. Humphrey Chetham’s Charity, for Clothing to the Poor 39 10 0
1786. Abigail Chetham’s Charity, for clothing 6 poor Boys 28 0 ()
1794. Eagley Bridge School—no free scholars & sº & g g ë. 4 0 0
Smalley's Charity, divided between the Masters of Eagley Bridge and Walmesley Schools 4 14 0
1795. Walmesley School, supported by subscription.
The family of Popplewell, natives of Bolton, stand distinguished as eminent benefactors of this parish. By will, dated March 3, 1820,
John Popplewell, esq., a gentleman of the medical profession, who died at Woodford, in Essex, in 1829, at the age of 73 years, bequeathed
at his death to the vicar of Bolton and three others, as trustees, the interest of £6900 in the funds, for the following purposes —4:4500
in the 3 per cents to buy clothing and bread for the poor in Great and Little Bolton and in the township of Turton; £2000 in the 3 per
cents to provide scholarships for the Free Grammar School; and £400 in the 3 per cents to repair All Saints' Chapel, Little Bolton. He
also left the following bequests to the township of Blackrod —The interest of £1600 in the 3 per cents to keep in repair the tomb of his
uncle, Thomas Aynscough, and to the minister 40s., and to the parish clerk, singers, and ringers, 20s. each, to be paid yearly on the 10th
of December ; the residue of the sum to be given in linen, flannel, stockings, and bread, to such poor as attend the chapel, and do not
receive parochial aid; the interest of £400 for clothing six boys or girls of the Grammar-School; of £300 in loaves to the poor at fixed
periods; and of £200 for twelve pairs of blankets to those old women in the township who attend the church most frequently; and the
interest of £1000 to augment the curate's salary. Altogether, Mr. Popplewell left to these and other places the interest of £15,099: 15: 3
in the 3 per cent consols, to which his sisters have since added in all the interest of £12,600 in the same stock. A marble monument has
been erected to the memory of Mr. Popplewell in Bolton Church. Anne and Rebecca Popplewell, his sisters, left, in 1831, the interest of
if 2000 in the 3 per cents to the poor of Great and Little Bolton ; of £1500 to the Grammar-School; and of £2150 in trust to the
minister and clerk of Blackrod, and the usher of the school there, to be distributed to the poor in bread and blankets on the 10th of
December annually.
BOLTON CHARITIES.
Ann. Proceeds.
1622. Gosnell's Charity, the rent of a farm . e £80 0 0
Four-sixths to the Lecturer at the parish church.
One-sixth to the Grammar-School.
One-sixth to the poor of Bolton.
1641. Bolton Free Grammar-School (about)3 .
485 0 0
* The first place appropriated to preaching by the Nonconformists New Church, 1, 370; Brethren, 1, 70; isolated Congregations, 2,
in Bolton stood on the South side of Deansgate, at the back of the
public-house formerly called the Woolpack, in the house occupied
by Mr. Yates, the bookseller.
* By the census of 1851, the number of places of worship and
sittings in the municipal borough of Bolton (population, 61,171)
were then —Church of England, 9, 96.16 sittings; Presbyterian
Church in England, 1, 500; Independents, 5, 2410 ; Particular
Baptists, 2, 540; Society of Friends, 1, 300; Unitarians, 1,614;
Wesleyan Methodists, 5, 3400 ; Methodist New Connection, 2,
600; Primitive Methodists, 3, 756; Wesleyan Association, 1, 500 ;
700; Roman Catholics, 2, 600. Total, 36 places; 20,976 sittings.
* By an act of parliament, 28 Geo. III. cap. 18, entitled, “An
Act for incorporating the governors of the Free Grammar School of
the town and parish of Bolton in the Moors, in the county palatine
of Lancaster, of the foundation of Robert Lever, late, of London,
gentleman, deceased, and for enlarging the trusts and powers of the
said governors for the benefit of the said school,” it appears that
there was previously an old School in this township ; and that the
testator bequeathed lands in Harwood, to be sold to the amount of
£380, to be applied to pious uses. He died without making any
556 Qſìje #istory of 3Lancašijire.
Ann. Proceeds.
date. Lomax's Charity—
To 40 poor persons of Breightmet and Harwood ſº º & * e 4. . £
To the Vicar g º e º e tº & e º *
And for poor Scholars at the University from the Bolton Grammar-School (annually)
i
1653. Guest's Charity, amounting to £500, to be divided amongst several parishes, for the purchase of land for the poor.
1691. Hulton's Charity—an estate consisting of houses, land, etc. . e & * g e º 277 0 0
For a Lecturer in the Church. &
Apprenticing Boys born in Bolton and Breightmet, and a Master to teach English, Latin, and Greek at Breightmet.
1714. Marsden's Charity School g e tº & & tº & e & e
1734. Astley's Charity—the interest of £180, to be laid out—
One-third for the use of the Poor.
One-third for a Sermon to awaken Sinners, in the Presbyterian Meeting.
One-third for Seats in the Presbyterian Chapel.
1744. Brook's Charity—7 Pews in the south Gallery of the Church ; for teaching orphan Children to read in Great Bolton
14 15 0
and Little Bolton, and in Tonge, Haulgh, and Breightmet . g 15 16 0
1774. Cocker's Charity, for Linen for the Poor of Bolton * & g * g tº G. 5 9 0
1784. Crompton's Charity, to be expended in Linen for the Poor º e e * & gº * 7 10 ()
1800. Aspinall's Charity, distributed to the Poor of Ridgway Methodist Chape e * g & 5 15 2
Mort's Tithe Rents—(See Astley, in parish of Leigh).
High Style School—(See parish of Dean).
Unknown Donor, given in Linen by the Boroughreeve . * º g e e g & 2 0 0
Parker's Charity, distributed in Linen by the Boroughreeve - 5 0 0
LITTLE BOLTON.
1764. Stone's Charity, to poor Widows and Orphans . g g tº e e º g 3 0 0
1780. Greenhalgh's Charity, the interest of £100, of which £2:2s, is paid to Manchester Infirmary, the rest to the Poor.
Wright's Charities, of various dates, for teaching Children º & g e * * e
ANLEZARGH.
Shaw's Charities—(See Standish).
BLACKROD.
1627. Grammar-School, founded by Elizabeth Tyldesley, widow, in 1627, rents and interest . º & g 140 4 0
A yearly sum of £5, left by John Holmes, for an exhibition at Pembroke Hall, Cambridge, had accumulated in 1827
to £2574 : 6: 6 in the 3 per cent consols. Since 1800 three exhibitioners have been appointed, and received £60,
£70, and £80 per annum.
Turner's and other Charities, on the tablets in the church, amounting to £325. There are also lost Charities to
the amount of £125.
BREIGHTMET.
1725. Roscow Fold School, founded by William Baguley with £200, for this township.
Parker's Charity, discontinued about 1808 ſº g sº &
: EDGEWORTH.
1804. Edgeworth School, where instruction is given to 26 Children . * * g e & g 22 12 ()
ENT WISLE.
The interest of £9 from an unknown donor, distributed to the poor in linen.
1800. Brandwood's Charity—laid out in linen e g e e * * ſº g tº 4 10 0
HARWOOD.
Goodwen and Brooke's Charity of £150, lost.
IDARCY IEVER.
Brownlow's Charity—(See Tonge).
LITTLE LEVER,
School, founded in 1736 by the Rev. Eleazer Heywood, land and building engaged by the Master.
LOSTOCK.
No free scholars.
Rivington School—
Free Grammar School, founded 18 Elizabeth (1576) by James Pilkington, bishop of Durham. 150 Children, boys
and girls, receive instruction . & gº * sº * & s sº ge
Several small charities in this township.
308 9 8
From the restoration of the Stuarts to the present time, the tranquillity of Bolton has suffered no inter-
ruption from civil War, though when the young Chevalier, Prince Charles Edward, penetrated into the heart
of the kingdom, taking the route of Preston and Manchester, his army skirted this place, and alarmed its
peaceful inhabitants. Soon after the expulsion of the royal adventurer, though wholly unconnected with that
event, a new era opened upon the manufactures of Lancashire. The age of invention commenced ; and the
town of Bolton took its full share in the race of enterprise and improvement.
As early as the reign of Richard I. an aulneger, or measurer by the ell, was appointed in this place, and
Specific appointment as to the application, and the surviving execu- and writing master. The residue appears to be applied to defraying
tors determined on its appropriation to the building and endowment incidental expenses. Robert Ainsworth, the author of the Thesaurus
of a new free grammar-school. The present income is about £485 Lingwoº Latinae was educated in this town, and was for some time
per annum, out of which is paid £335 in salaries to a head, second, at the Grammar-School. *
#timbrely of Salton-Bolton #arišij, - 557
as his office was to measure all cloths made for sale, and to mark them with the king's seal, bearing the
maker's name and the length of the pieces, it is probable that the woollen-cloth trade existed here as early as
the twelfth century. We have the authority of Leland, the itinerant, for saying that the manufactures, which
at that time bore the name of cottons, but which in reality were woollen fabrics, as well as the spinning of
yarn, prevailed in Bolton in the reign of Henry VIII., and it appears, from an act passed in the 8 Elizabeth
(1566), that it was found necessary to appoint deputies to assist the aulneger, in the places where he had
heretofore exercised his office, and Bolton is mentioned as one of the places where those deputies were to be
employed. This district of country became successively the resort of the Flemish clothiers, the French refugees,
and the Rhenish weavers, all workers in woollens. The first mention of the manufacture of real cotton goods
—mixtures of woollen and cotton—made in Lancashire is in 1641, on the eve of the civil wars, and Bolton
is named as a principal seat of the manufacture of fustians, vermillions, and dimities. Dr. Fuller, in his
Worthies of England, published in 1662, says that Bolton is the staple place for the making of fustians, which
were brought there from all parts of the country; and Humphrey Chetham, the public benefactor, who lived
at Turton, in this parish, was amongst the wholesale dealers in these articles, Bolton being the principal mart
for the unfinished, and Manchester for the finished goods. Tinen yarn was then used as the warp in the
making of fustians, and nearly all the other cottons of this country, till 1773. In 1673, Mr. Blome, in his
Britannia, says—“Boulton, seated on the river Irwell, a fair and well-built town with broad streets, hath a
market on Mondays, which is very good for cloth and provisions; and is a place of great trade in fustians.”
Velvets, composed entirely of cotton, were first made by Mr. Jeremiah Clarke of Bolton about 1756; and
muslins and cotton quiltings were made by Mr. Joseph Shaw in 1763. Originally fustians, India jeans, ribs,
and thicksets, were the principal articles woven in this town and neighbourhood; but they have been super-
seded by muslins, counterpanes, dimities, Satteens, toilet-covers, shirtings, quiltings, and mulls, which are now
the prevailing manufactures.
Mr. Rasbotham, an inhabitant of the adjoining parish, in his notes written a century after Blome's
Britannia, has this passage:—“There is a staple here for fustians of divers sorts, especially those called
Augsburgh and Milan fustians, which are brought into its markets and fairs from all parts of the country, and
sold to the countrymen for clothes, and to the gentry for linings and other uses.” The age of mechanical
improvement had now opened, and the most distinguished of all the early manufacturers by the aid of
machinery was a former resident here, Richard Arkwright, a barber in Churchgate and Deansgate. Having
brought his machinery into operation between the years 1768-9, he left his native county in the latter year,
and with the aid of a moneyed partner, established himself in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire, where he carried
on his works without being subject to the popular rage directed against improvements which poor Hargraves,
the inventor of the spinning jenny in 1767, had had to encounter two years before. The disposition to put
down machinery for the abridgment of manual labour by violence, continued strongly to prevail in this parish
till 1779, when it again broke out in open outrage ; on which occasion Dorning Rasbotham, esq., a resident
magistrate, wrote and disseminated widely a dissuasive from such lawless proceedings, in which the danger
and the folly of the rioters' conduct were strongly exhibited. Ten years after the spinning jenny and the
water-frame had found their way into general use, Samuel Crompton, an inhabitant of the parish of Bolton,
residing in part of an old mansion called “Hall-iſ-th'-Wood,”’ produced a machine which combined the
principles of the two other inventions, and was called from that circumstance the Mule. This valuable machine
was completed in 1779, and given to the public in 1780, and the inventor was acknowledged rather than
compensated, first by two private subscriptions to a small amount, and afterwards by a grant from parliament
in 1812 of £5000. In 1842 his children received £200 from the Royal Bounty Fund. Previous to Mr.
Crompton's invention of the mule, the muslin-manufacture, which has since formed so important a branch of
trade in Bolton, had been attempted, but without much success; but in 1812 it was ascertained that 70,000
persons were employed in spinning by Mr. Crompton's machine, that 150,000 weavers were employed in
weaving the yarn produced by that machine, and that four-fifths of the cloth bleached in the neighbourhood
of Bolton was spun by the mule. Spinning-factories, principally on a small scale, were erected in the neigh-
bourhood soon after the introduction of machinery into the manufacture of cotton, and worked by water, of
which there was then but a scanty Supply. The use of the steam-engine, and its application to the purposes
of manufacture, overcame this difficulty; and there are now in the parish of Bolton a great number of steam-
engines employed in the cotton-mills, in addition to others employed in bleaching and in the foundry business,
in the making of paper, in coal-mining, and in Saw-mills and chemical works, as well as numerous water-wheels.
Still further to extend the manufacturing operations on the Irwell, a plan has been formed for equalising the
power of the stream in the river by the accumulation of water on the adjoining eminences, and reservoirs have
1 Hall-i’-th’-Wood is a large and interesting wood and plaster in the 17th century, and is now possessed by his descendant. The
structure, partly modernised. The porch was added in 1648, by situation of the house is extremely picturesque, and the prospect
Alex. Norris, gent., whose ancestors resided here in 1550. The bold and pleasing. There is a view of it in Roby's Traditions of
estate, upwards of 1761 acres, passed in marriage with Margaret, Lancashire.—Note by Rev. Canon Raines in Wotitia Cestriensis,
daughter of Alex. Norris, gent, to John Starkie of Huntroyd, esq., ii. 12. -
558 (Liſt ºigturn of £ancašijire.
been formed in the townships of Turton and Entwistle, covering an area of 136 acres, to feed the stream in
seasons of drought. Thousands of spindles, each of them yielding more yarn than an individual spinner could
have produced a century ago, are in motion in the factories, and two of the principal spinners in Bolton have
100,000 spindles each employed. Bleaching is carried on in the neighbourhood to a great extent, and the
average quantity of cloth bleached in this parish annually is estimated at six millions of pieces. Since the
introduction of the new system, the bleaching operation has attained a degree of rapidity that would have
startled our ancestors, and might, two centuries ago, have added another page to the history of witchcraft.
At present (1833) there are no fewer than twenty-two bleach-grounds within five miles of the town of Bolton.
A large proportion of the cotton fabrics manufactured here are sold to the Manchester merchants. In the
infancy of the manufactories, this was not the case; the inhabitants, aware of the advantages that accrued
from selling their goods in their own markets, erected extensive warehouses and sale-rooms in the principal
streets, and customers came from the metropolis and other parts of the country to replenish their stocks of
drapery. At length the spirit of competition induced some of the manufacturers to meet their London friends
at Manchester; and this practice continued to increase till the market was finally transferred to that place,
and the ancient warehouses of Bolton were deserted. Several of these buildings were in existence fifty or
sixty years ago, and their construction was both singular and ornamental. They generally consisted of three
storeys—a warehouse or sale-room occupied the first floor; on the second there was a gallery in front, with
shops and sale-rooms behind; and the third storey consisted of rooms supported by wooden pillars that projected
over the galleries, and formed a sort of piazza for passengers. Time has swept them all away, and not a
vestige remains to proclaim a fact, which is nevertheless well authenticated, that Bolton was at one time a
principal market for the sale, as it is still a principal seat, of the manufactures of the county of Lancaster.
Flax-spinning has been introduced into this place.
The staple trade of the town is cotton spinning and weaving. The factories or spinning-mills contain
from thirty thousand to sixty thousand spindles each, and those of recent erection are really handsome
buildings. The cost of a mill is about 18s, per spindle. There are about three million spindles in the mills in
the borough. A mule—the machine upon which the cotton is spun, invented by Samuel Crompton, a native
of Bolton—contains from five hundred to a thousand spindles, and a pair of these are managed by a
spinner and three piecers. The tall chimneys belonging to the factories give the town a very peculiar
appearance to a stranger. The bye-laws of the borough require them to be at least 40 yards high. Some
are more than double that height. The yarns spun in Bolton are generally very fine. As low as 10's are
spun, but the “Bolton Courts” are 50's and upwards. As high as 240's is commonly spun, and even so fine
as 700's; that is, 700 hanks of 840 yards each, making a thread 334 miles long, weigh only one pound.
The fabrics woven in Bolton are shirtings; plain and coloured quiltings; cambrics; plain and figured
muslins; toilets, including the beautiful Marseilles quilts peculiar to Bolton; mulls; Satteens; counterpanes;
and cotton blankets.
The ironworks are numerous, and some of them very extensive. They are employed in the construction
of locomotive, stationary, and marine engines, steam-boilers, mill-gearing, and cotton spinning and weaving
machinery, iron bridges, etc. There is also a very large forge, and manufactory of Bessemer steel. Flax-
spinning is carried on to a limited extent. In Bolton and the neighbourhood the bleaching and finishing of
cloth is carried on upon a large scale.
The following table shows the magnitude of the works in the borough in September 1867 –
Number of Hands employed.
Class of Works. Number of Amount of
Works. *P9W*| Males. | Females. | Totals.
Factories 3. nº ſº 71 4745 5,405 8565 | 13,970
Foundries tº s e 28 - 1322 5,631 2 5,633
Bleachworks . * g 6 691 525 || 269 794
Miscellaneous . g & 36 460 1,469 161 1,630
Hand-loom weavers . tº () 0 0 O 2,040
Totals . . 141 7218 || 13,030 | 8997 || 24,067
Bolton, like other parts of Lancashire, has derived considerable advantage from inland navigation. The
Bolton Canal, already described, runs from this place to Manchester, and forms an excellent water communi-
cation both for the conveyance of merchandise and passengers. A branch of this canal passes to Bury, and
these important manufacturing stations are thus connected, to their mutual advantage. But canals, the great
improvement in the conveyance of merchandise and passengers in the last age, have been to a certain extent
superseded by the still more important improvement of the present age. Stimulated by the success, even in
anticipation, of the Manchester and Liverpool Railway, a company was formed for constructing a railroad from .
#timbrell of salton–Bolton #arišij. 559
Bolton to Leigh, incorporated March 31, 1825, and another from Leigh to Kenyon, incorporated May 14,
1829, at which a junction is formed with the Manchester and Liverpool Railway. The construction of the
roads, including the land, cost about £10,000 per mile. On the 13th of June 1831 the road was opened
along the whole line, and by this means Bolton and Liverpool, though at a distance of 33 miles, were brought
as near for the purpose of public conveyance as Bolton and Manchester, though less than 12 miles asunder.
Still further to increase these facilities, the Manchester and Bolton Railway was constructed from Bolton to
Manchester, 10 miles in length, at a cost of £650,000. It was opened May 24, 1838.
Mr. Rasbotham, in his M.S. notes, has preserved a list of the prices of provisions in Bolton, in the
year 1745, and forty-two years afterwards, which may be considered applicable to the other manufacturing
towns of the county at those periods; the prices in the agricultural districts being somewhat lower. From
this return it appears that in 1745, between August and Christmas, the average price of beef, veal, and
mutton, was from 2d. to 24d. per lb., that of pork 3d., and that a good stubble-goose might then be had for
18d. In 1787, when these notes were made, the average price of beef, veal, and mutton, in Bolton market,
was 4d., of pork 4d. to 5d., and a good stubble-goose sold for 3s., and butter sold at from 9d, to 11d. per
lb. Wheat had in the meantime advanced from 28s, to 49S. per quarter, according to the returns in the
Eton books; and manufacturing wages had probably doubled, in 1787, the amount in 1745.
The population of the “town” of Bolton (including the townships of Great and Little Bolton) is stated
to have been, in 1773, only 5339; in 1789 it was 11,740. By the official census taken every ten years, the
population was ascertained to be, in 1801, 17,416 ; in 1811, 24,149 ; in 1821, 31,295; in 1831, 41,195 ;
in 1841, 49,754; in 1851, 61,172; in 1861, 70,797; and in 1867 it was estimated or computed to be
about 76,000.
On the 11th October 1867, a destructive fire occurred, in the dinner-hour, at the mill of Messrs. John
Haslam and Co., Bolton. A number of the work-people, within the mill, jumped from the windows and
were more or less hurt, but none fatally. The mill was erected in 1860, and contained about 30,000 spindles;
the value of the property destroyed was estimated at about £30,000, but this loss was fully covered by
II].SUII’3,1] Cé.
GREAT AND LITTLE BOLTON.—The townships of Great and Little Bolton had each a separate police,
consisting of a boroughreeve, two constables, a deputy-constable, and inferior officers, who were elected
annually, at the courts-leet, in the month of October. The two towns are now one municipality, governed
by a mayor and corporation (1867). Petty sessions are held in Bolton, on the Monday and Thursday and
Saturday in every week, at which the magistrates in the Bolton division of Salford hundred attend in
rotation. The privilege of holding a court-baron for the recovery of small debts under 40s., is vested in the
lords of the manor of Great Bolton ; and sixty-two years ago, a court of this kind was held here, but in the
6th George III. (1765-6) it was discontinued, owing to the clerk having absconded, and conveyed away part of
the records. Great Bolton was governed, cleansed, and lighted by a body of forty commissioners, or trustees,
incorporated by police acts, passed in 1792 and 1817; and Little Bolton was governed by thirty trustees,
under the authority of a police act passed in 1830, till 1838, when the charter of municipal incorporation
was granted. Previous to the 22d Edward IV. (1422), Sir George Stanley claimed a market every week at
Bolton on the Friday, and one fair there every year on the eve of St. Margaret, of two days duration (July
19 and 20). Ł
- #. is a kind of bread used here, and in some of the other manufacturing parts of Lancashire, called
Jamnock, made of oatmeal, in the form of a loaf ; but modern refinement has almost banished this food,
introduced by the refugee Flemings, and wheaten bread and oat-cakes have taken its place.
SCHOOLs.-The Sunday Schools in Bolton are an important feature, and are conducted with as much zeal, probably, as in any
part of the kingdom. Distinct rooms for male and female scholars are attached to all the larger, and many of the smaller, places
of worship. Many attend them from childhood to twenty or thirty years of age, and it is not at all uncommon to find a husband
attending one department as a scholar, and the wife the other. The number of Sunday scholars in the borough is about 18,000.
A characteristic feature in connection with these schools is the very numerously attended tea-parties on New Year's Day, when
the rooms are most elaborately and effectively decorated. A sick society is usually attached to each school. Day-Schools are
connected with each church—besides two Wesleyan, one British, and one Roman Catholic—generally in three departments—boys, girls,
and infants—each conducted by a certificated teacher, aided by pupil-teachers. The School-rooms are large and convenient, many
of them having considerable architectural pretensions. They are subject to government inspection, and receive aid from the
parliamentary grant for education. The number of children attending them, including the half-timers under the Factories Act,
is about 6000. The fees range from 2d. to 6d. per week. Most of the day-schools have night-schools, both for males and females,
connected with them, and under government inspection. There are also several respectably conducted private schools for the
children of the middle classes, besides the Grammar School, and one held in the Church Institution, under the management of the
trustees. The Certified Industrial School, Commission Street, was opened as a Ragged Industrial School in 1854, and certified
under the Industrial Schools Act of 1861 in 1863. Its object is the education and industrial training of destitute children of both
sexes, and of those convicted by the magistrates for begging or pilfering. These latter are sent for periods of from two to five
years. All the children are boarded and lodged on the premises. There are at present (November 1867), 32 boys and 13 girls in
the institution, 36 of whom have been committed by the magistrates. The accommodation is limited at present, but in the spring
of 1868 the premises will be enlarged and remodelled at a cost of £2000, towards which the Justices of the Hundred of Salford
have granted £700, and the Corporation of Bolton £350. There will then be convenience for nearly 100 inmates. The governor
is Mr. J. T. Rathbone. Upwards of 400 children have passed through the school since its establishment.
560 Qſìje 3%igturn of 3 antagjire.
Poor-LAw UNION.—The Poor-Law Union consists of the following six relief districts, and twenty-six townships —
Area in Acres. Pop. in 1861.
1. EASTERN BOLTON . e e ſº * † º g 825 24,996
2. WESTERN BOLTON . e * tº tº e g º 18,439
3. LITTLE BOLTON, including Little Bolton, Halliwell, and
Sharples . * e tº t * & & * 8,257 35,138
4. FARNWORTH and HULTON, including Farnworth, Little
Hulton, Middle Hulton, Over Hulton, Kersley, Darcy
Lever, Great Lever, Little Lever, and Rumworth gº 10,452 26,895
5. TURTON, including Bradshaw, Breightmet, Entwisle, Har-
wood, Longwood, Quarlton, Tong-with-Haulgh, Turton,
and Edgworth . º g t † te e e 16,022 14,640
6. WESTHOUGHTON, including Heaton, Horwich, Westhough-
ton, and Lostock . & gº º * e gº 10,857 10,162
Total extent of the Union g * 46,413 130,270
The new Union Workhouse, at Fishpool, about two miles from the centre of the town, was opened 26th September 1861. It
was erected at a cost of £37,200, including the purchase of 24 acres of land at £120 per acre. It affords accommodation for 1000
inmates, and is fitted with every modern improvement. The Board of Guardians consists of thirty-eight members, besides the
County magistrates residing in the Union, who are members ea officio. An excellent and commodious board-room was erected in
Mawdsley Street in 1865, at a cost of £3500. t
MUNICIPAL BOROUGH.—On the 11th October 1838 the charter of incorporation was granted. The municipal government is
now Wested in thirty-six councillors and twelve aldermen, out of whom the mayor is elected. For municipal purposes the borough
is divided into six wards—viz. Exchange, containing in, 1867, 755 burgesses; Bradford, 1518; Derby, 1236; Church, 969; East,
1237; West, 2592. –Total, 8307.

Townships. Gross Value. Rateable Value.
Area of the Great Bolton . † g g £143,505 £120,512
Borough Little Bolton . g g g 94,524 79,037
in acres. Haulgh . e º s * 8,396 7,154
1840 Total . . . #246,425 £206,703
From the printed abstracts of the accounts of the corporation of Bolton for the year ended 31st August 1867, we take the follow-
ing principal items of receipts and expenditure —General Statement.—Receipts: Borough-rates of 1866-7, £11,808; Sessions, etc.,
£1419 ; borough court, £739; town-hall, £290; markets, £600; waterworks, £3282; loans, £21,432; total, £40,505. Expendi-
ture : Salaries, £1614; county charges, £1008; sessions, etc., #2301; borough court, #462; sanitary, £355; fire-brigade, É774;
police, £3342; town-hall, £1396 ; park, £1566; recreation-ground, £290; markets, £750; cemetery, £100 ; waterworks, £750;
extensions of town-hall, park, etc., £15,504; balance 31st August 1866, £992; do. August 1867, £9345. Markets.-Receipts:
Income, £6161 ; loans, £7297; balance, 1867, £11,934; total, É23,591. Expenditure : Outgo, £5561 ; balance to borough fund,
£600; capital account, É8086; balance, 1866, £3078. Waterworks. –Receipts: Income, £15,534; loans, £74,616; balance, 1867,
£38,703; total, £128,854. Library.—Receipts: Income, £48; balance, 1866, £872; total, £920. Expenditure : Outgo, £556;
balance, 1867, £364. Lighting, etc., Rate.—Receipts: District rate, £11,873; chief rents, £2938; scavenging, £859; repairing
streets, £2831 ; balance, 1867, £1835. Expenditure : Salaries, interest, and sundries, £962; scavenging and investments, £5863;
repairing streets, and investments, £10,920; balance, 1866, £521. Public Streets (under Public Works’ Loan).-Net amount owing
to Government, É38,933; income, £1048; total, £80,982. Expenditure : Outgo, £1048; balance, 1867, £30,982. Private Streets
(under Public Works’ Loan).-Receipts: Net amount owing to Government, É17,600. Expenditure : Balance, £17,600. Stock
Accounts.-Debts: Borough fund, £68,703; markets, £84,690; cemetery, £13,627; waterworks, £297,401; lighting, etc., de-
partment, É34,924. Assets: Borough fund, É74,009; markets, £96,610; cemetery, £17,085; waterworks, £316,403; lighting,
etc., department, É66,894.
Ex-MAYORs.-The civic chair has been occupied since the act of incorporation in 1838 by the following gentlemen —
C. J. Darbishire e * e 1838-9 P. R. Arrowsmith . e e 1853-4
Robert Heywood . † º 1839-40 Do. te * e 1854-5
James Arrowsmith . es tº 1840-1 James Knowles g & & 1855-6
Thomas Cullen g & . . 1841-2 Do. 9 º e I856-7
Robert Walsh . e ſº * 1842-3 William Makant ge g & 1857-8
Thomas Gregson . e & 1843-4 - Do. gº g g 1858-9
John Slater . a s tº 1844-5 John Orton . e g º 1859-60
Stephen Blair . g e * 1845-6 John Harwood . * & g 1860-1
James Scowcroft e g & 1846-7 J. R. Wolfenden e & & I861-2
T. R. Bridson . g w se 1847-8 Do. * & & 1862-3
Thomas L. Rushton . g * 1848-9 Richard Harwood . s g 1863-4
Do. * tº g 1849-50 Richard Stockdale . {º} * 1864-5
William Gray . & g # 1850-1 Do. * & º 1865-6
Do. e * . 1851-2 Fergus Ferguson . . . 1866-7
John Stones . e º g 1852–3 James Barlow . & & & 1867-8
There are twenty-four borough magistrates, besides the mayor and ex-mayor, who occupy their seats 62 officio.
- Town-HALL.-With the large increase in the population of the town, and consequent extension of public business, it has
become absolutely necessary to provide larger and more commodious premises than those now used by the corporation; consequently the
council has determined to erect a splendid town-hall. The site purchased is from the west side of the Market Square to Howell Croft,
which cost £32,708. It is now partly built. It is in the Grecian style of architecture, with a noble portico surmounted by a tower
220 feet from the base to the summit of the vane. The Market Square elevation is 206 feet, and its width 160 feet, besides the portico
58 feet 8 inches by 19 feet 3 inches. It will include police-offices and cells, court-rooms, offices for the several officers of the corporation,
#umbren of $alfort—lºoſtom 33arish. 561
a large assembly-room, 105 feet by 56 feet, etc. ... The cost, including site and fixtures, will be nearly £100,000. The architect is
Mr. William Hill of Leeds. The town-hall in St. George's Street is used as the county constabulary station, lockup, and court.
The County Court is at present held here, and the Philharmonic Society occupies the large room for its rehearsals.
PolicE. –The police-office and court-house are in Bowker's Row. They are most insignificant and inconvenient premises, but
when the new town-hall is completed ample accommodation and convenience will be provided. The police force consisted of one
chief-constable, 2 inspectors, 3 sergeants, and 34 constables; total, 40, till February 1868, when the number was increased to 70.
The cost of the maintenance of the police for the year ending September 29, 1867, was £3050 : 11 : 11.
ENGINES, ETC., IN THE FIRE STATION, NEWPORT STREET.-Engines, 3 ; reel and hose carriage, 1; fire-escape, 1 ; length of
hose in yards, 840; stand-pipes for hydrants, 3 ; suction-pipes, 15 ; delivery-pipes, 10; plug pipes, 1 ; elbow-pipes, 4 : hydrants,
158. The fire brigade consists of 1 superintendent, I principal branchman, 1 engineer, 2 captains, 9 firemen, and 6 fire police—1
superintendent and 19 men. The superintendent's salary is £60 per annum ; principal branchman's, £17: 18s. ; engineer's,
£62 : 8: 2; 2 captains, at £5 : 18s. each ; 9 firemen, at £4: 18s, each ; 2 police-captains, at £5 : 18s. each ; and 4 fire police, at
£5:4s. each.--Total per annum, £228 : 16s.
County CourT.—The county court at Bolton is held in the Little Bolton town-hall every Friday, except during the month of
September. The judge is John Stock Turner Greene, esq., of Adlington Hall, near Chorley. The recorder at the Quarter Sessions
is John Archibald Russell, esq. The jurisdiction of the court extends over the townships of Bradshaw, Breightmet, Darcy Lever,
Edgeworth, Entwisle, Farnworth, Great Bolton, Great Lever, Halliwell, Harwood, Heaton, Horwich, Kersley, Little Bolton,
Little Hulton, Little Lever, Longworth, Lostock, Middle Hulton, Over Hulton, Quarlton, Rumworth, Sharples, Tonge-with-
Haulgh, Turton, and Westhoughton. . A very superior building for the business of the court is in course of erection in Acres Field,
on the site of the concert-hall, formerly the theatre. It will be built by the government from the designs of Mr. Thomas Charles
Sorby, the county-court surveyor, at a cost, including furniture, of £6000. The general character of the front elevation is Italian;
its material Huddersfield stone. The doorways of the lower storey are Doric; the second storey windows have party fluted pilasters
upon a balustrade, surmounted by Corinthian capitals. The accommodation consists of six offices and two fire-proof rooms;
court-room, 54 feet by 40 feet, and 24 feet high ; judges' retiring-room, counsel's room, jury-room, female and public waiting-
rooms, and porters' apartments. The edifice will be warmed by hot air.
WATER.—The water is of excellent quality, collected from the moors at Belmont, about four miles distant, and from the
township of Heaton. Besides the borough, the townships of Farnworth, Kearsley, and Darcy Lever are supplied. It is stored in
four reservoirs —
Area of
Capacity in Gallons. Gathering-Ground.
Spring Reservoir, Belmont * º & © º 130,000,000
Dingle . ſº tº gº wº g & e 70,000,000 525 Acres.
Sweetloves, Sharples (service reservoir) ſº g e 90,000,000
Heaton e º º sº e & * 92,000,000 523 , ,
Total Storage © tº g . . 382,000,000 1048 Acres. }
FALL OF RAIN IN BOLTON AND NEIGHBOURHOOD.
BOLTON. BELMONT. EIEATON.
Fall. Evaporation.
1866 g e g wº º * g & º 59.2 in. 19:03 in. 68°1 in. 55-3 in.
Average for seven years, 1860-6 inclusive tº º 49 '9 19.7 56.6 44°1
In 1866 rain fell on 195 days, and in 1865 on 138 days. The daily consumption for domestic purposes is 2,000,000 gallons, and
for manufacturing purposes about 400,000 gallons. The number of tenants, is 21,000, and the gross revenue £17,000,
leaving a net profit in 1867 of £3282 to the borough funds. From the elevation of the service reservoirs at Sweetloves and Heaton
—210 feet above Deansgate—(they are on the same level), the pressure is sufficiently great to throw a jet of water over the highest
building without any mechanical aid, and this is of the greatest service in case of fire. For this purpose there are 158 hydrants
attached to the mains, in various parts of the town. The pressure in Deansgate is 80 lbs. to the square inch, and in Kearsley Vale,
the lowest district supplied, it is 130 lbs. The water is conveyed to the town by two mains, 18 inches and 14 inches in diameter
respectively. In connection with the waterworks there is at Belmont a reservoir as compensation for the springs and Dingle water,
with a gathering-ground of 1823 acres ; and another at Rumworth to compensate for the Heaton water, with a gathering-ground
of 736 acres. The waterworks were established in 1818, and a company incorporated 17th June 1824. By the Bolton Improve-
ment Bill, 1847, the municipal authorities obtained power to purchase not less than one-fifth at a time at twenty-five years'
purchase, or to lease them from the company. They are now held on payment of a quit-rent of £4500 per annum. This does not
include the Heaton works, which have been formed by the corporation. The total cost of the waterworks has been £228,000.
The increase of the town has necessitated an extension of the works. For this purpose the corporation has purchased the Entwisle
reservoir, which was constructed for the supply of millowners on the Bradshaw stream. The corporation take the liabilities
of the commissioners, amounting to £34,550; release the occupiers on the stream of the annual rent-charge of £4 per foot of fall,
which realised about £1100 per annum ; and form a compensation reservoir, and adopt means of supplying pure water to the various
works. The Entwisle reservoir has a capacity of 555,000,000 gallons, collected from an area of 2300 acres. The greatest depth
is 120 feet, and it will afford a supply of 4,000,000 gallons daily. It will be conveyed from the reservoir under the hill—500
feet high—to Egerton, a distance of a mile and three-quarters, through a tunnel 5 feet 6 inches high and 4 feet 6 inches wide, and
thence to the Sweetloves reservoir in pipes along the turnpike road. The compensation-reservoir will be formed by impounding the
waters of the Wayoh, by an embankment at Turton Bottoms 300 yards in length. It will be nearly one mile in length ; will cover
90 acres; its greatest depth 60 feet ; its capacity about the same as the Entwisle reservoir; the gathering-ground 3400 acres.
The total cost, including the liability of the commissioners, will probably exceed £150,000. It will take four years to complete it.
GAS.–The Bolton Gas Company was formed in 1818, and incorporated in 1820. The company now works under the acts of
1854 and 1864. The authorised capital of the company is 11,375 shares, at £16 : 10s. = £187,687 : 10s. The paid-up capital is
3909 old shares (paid up), £64,498:10s. ; 7466 new shares (£12 paid), £89,592; total, £154,090 : 10s. ; leaving unpaid 7466, at
£4:10s. =#33,597. The borrowing powers are £41,000. The maximum reserved fund £18,768: 15s. The dividend on the old
shares is 10 per cent ; on the new, 6% per cent. The manufacturing works are in Gas Street and Lum Street. The storage
accommodation is: Spa Fields telescope holder, 140 feet diameter, 880,000 cubic feet; Lum Street, 15.1% feet diameter, 31 feet
deep, 560,000; Haulgh, 101 feet diameter and 30 feet deep, 240,000; four smaller holders, 109,000; total, 1,789,000 cubic feet.
340 retorts, each 9 feet long, are used, and the gas made entirely from the best cannel. The rapid increase in the demand for gas
is shown in the following table —
- Cubic feet made.
Year ending 30th June 1847 g * • e 39,057,000
2 2 2 3 1857 e º - & 120,718,000
2 3 2 3 1867 sº & ge ſº 204,454,000
4 C
562 (The #istory of 3Lancashire,
To make the last-named quantify, 19,400 tons of cannel were used. The highest daily consumption last twelve months, 1,100,000
cubic feet; lowest, 200,000; average for 1867, 560,000. The illuminating power is 19% to 20 candles; and the net price charged
in the borough is 3s. 4d. per thousand feet. The number of street-lamps supplied is as follows: In the borough, 1679; Astley
Bridge, 66; Halliwell, 75; Great Lever, 72; Darcy Lever, 13; total, 1905. The amount consumed is ascertained by a meter to
every twelve lamps. The consumption is 24 feet per hour ; a few in the centre of the town consume 3% feet. In some towns as
much as 5 feet is consumed. The amount paid by the corporation for lamps in the Borough, for the year ending 30th September
1867, was £1346. The company are erecting new offices and workshops in Hotel Street. The building, in design, is one of the
most chaste and imposing in the town. It is surmounted by a tower 120 feet high. The cost of the building and fittings will be
about £7000.
STREET IMPROVEMENTS.—During the last few years the town has been thoroughly drained, the streets paved with stone sets
instead of the boulder stones formerly in general use, and the footpaths laid with flags. Attention is now paid to preserve a greater
uniformity in the arrangement of buildings, and already great improvements have been effected. The street-architecture has
greatly improved, especially in Knowsley Street and the neighbourhood. The following public buildings, all of good design, have
been built during the last few years, or are in course of erection —Bank of Bolton, Hardcastle's Bank, Gas Offices, Poor-law Offices,
Mechanics' Institution, Church Institution, Post and Inland Revenue Offices, County Court, Market Hall, Fish Market, Town
Hall, Savings Bank; several churches, chapels, and Schools, besides some excellent warehouses, all greatly improving the
appearance of the streets. The bed of the river Croal, in the borough, has been paved, and the fall graduated, and it is now entirely
free from the offensive deposits of mud that previously existed.
Post OFFICE.-The Post Office is at present at the south-west corner of the Market Square, but a new building for the
business of the Post Office and Inland Revenue is nearly completed (February 1868). It is situated at the corner of Bradshawgate
and Silverwell Street. It is of brick, with stone dressings: the general character is Doric. The ground-floor will be devoted to
the Post Office, and the two upper storeys are arranged as offices for the Inland Revenue. It will cost about £4000. There are
three deliveries of letters daily (on Sunday only one). The number of letters passing through the principal offices is upwards of
90,000 per week. Besides the general office, there are fifteen receiving-boxes in the borough, and thirty in the suburban district.
BANKS.—There are three banks in the town : that of Messrs Hardcastle, Cross, and Co., in Corporation Street; the Bank of
iº, Deansgate; and the Manchester and County Bank, Hotel Street. The Savings Bank is in Wood Street. It was opened
in 1817.
The MARKET HALL, in Knowsley Street, is one of the largest and most elegant structures of the kind in the kingdom. It
was erected from designs by Mr. T. G. Robinson, and opened with much ceremony on the 19th December 1855. It is 294 feet in
length, and 215 in breadth, and covers an area of upwards of 7000 square yards, or nearly one acre and a half. Its erection, with
the land and property necessary to be purchased, cost £80,000. The building alone cost £50,000. It is of brick and stone. The
façade of the principal entrance, in Knowsley Street, is composed of six Corinthian columns of large dimensions, supporting a noble
entablature, all of polished stone. The roof is of iron and glass, and has an unusually light and graceful appearance. Round the
whole of the interior is a gallery 13 feet wide, used for the sale of drapery and other light goods, toys, etc.; the space underneath
is divided into very convenient shops, occupied by butchers and other tradesmen. The remainder of the space is well fitted up
with stalls for green-grocers, etc. The basement is a series of arched vaults, used as stores, etc. The accommodation includes 65
shops, 72 green-grocers' stalls, 58 butchers’ stalls, 10 earthenware stalls, 62 miscellaneous stalls in the gallery; 265 yards of tables.
Besides the Knowsley Street entrance, there are three others in Corporation Street, and one in Rushton Street. The rents realised
£4482 in 1866; the Market Square tolls, £446. The Fish and Poultry Market, contiguous to the Market Hall, was opened
December 22, 1865. It is similar in style to the Market Hall, with a like roof. Suitable stores for fish are provided in the vaults
underneath. The cost was upwards of £5000. The rents in 1866 amounted to £414. The market-days are Tuesday, Thursday,
and Saturday, for farmers' produce ; but every day of the week is, by the council, declared to be a market-day. The corporation
has recently purchased the old Coronation Mill and adjacent property, near the present Market Square, for £8000, with a view
of forming a wholesale market there, instead of the Market Square. The cost of the “Markets Scheme" to this time is £95,650.
The CATTLE-MARKET, in Orlando Street, is the property of the earl of Bradford, who pays a nominal sum to the corporation
for the right to collect the tolls. The pig-market is held every Monday; that for cows, etc., every second Monday. Very little
business is done. ! -
The MARKET SQUARE is one of the finest in the kingdom. It is 125 yards long and 56 yards broad. Before the erection of
the Market Hall, it was crowded with the stalls of butchers, green-grocers, and others : it is only used now as the wholesale
market for farmers' produce. It was opened in 1826. The fish-market continued to be held at the old Market Cross, in
Churchgate, till 1855.
NELSON SQUARE is between the Dispensary and Bradshawgate. At the east end a bronze statue of Samuel Crompton, the
inventor of the “Mule,” was erected in 1862. The square is asphalted, and surrounded by elegant lamps on massive stone
pedestals. It was formerly used as a pig-market.
PUBLIC LIBRARY AND MUSEUM.—This valuable and well-conducted institution was opened October 12, 1853, under the
provisions of the Act 13 and 14 Vict. c. 65. It then contained 12,239 volumes, 1450 of which were presented, and the remainder
purchased by subscriptions amounting to £3195. There are two departments, the lending and reference. The number of volumes
at this time (1867) is : Free Lending Library, 7593; Reference, 14,923; total, 22,516. In connection with the Public Library is
a “Subscription Library,” which has 198 subscribers of one guinea each. The funds so raised are expended in the purchase of new
publications, which are lent exclusively to the subscribers for twelve months, and are then transferred to the “Public Library.”
In return for the books so transferred, the subscribers are allowed, under certain regulations, to take out books from the Reference
department. The library is kept in the upper rooms of the Exchange; but from the regular addition of new works, it has already
become inconveniently crowded, and the absolute necessity of larger and more convenient premises must force itself very soon
upon the committee, or else the difficulty must be met by branch libraries being established. Some interesting objects have been
contributed as the nucleus of a museum, including very complete collections of shells, seals, etc., but for want of space these
collections cannot be exposed to view. With suitable accommodation and a little effort, no doubt a very useful and interesting
museum could be formed. The only other library in the town of any importance is the excellent one connected with the
Mechanics' Institution, which numbers 5099 volumes.
The School of Art, which was held at the Church Institute, was closed in consequence of the great reduction in the grants of
the Art Department of the Commission of Council on Education. It was one of the most successful in the kingdom.
Three local papers are published : The Chronicle, price 2d., established in 1824 (liberal conservative); the Guardian, price 1d.,
established in 1859 (liberal); and the Evening News, a daily half-penny paper, established 1867.
The Church Institute, adjoining the parish churchyard, was erected in 1855, at a cost of £5000. It is a large and elegant
structure, of mediaeval character, with spire, belfry, etc. A good middle-class school is held here, and evening-classes have been
opened for the study of Science, languages, and mathematics, as well as elementary knowledge. There is a very comfortable
reading-room, much frequented. There is also a small but interesting museum. It contains a beautiful stained-glass window,
erected by John Hick, esq., C.E., at a cost of £500. w
The Mechanics' Institution is held in rooms in Oxford Street. It was established in 1825. It has evening classes for the study
of the usual elementary subjects and mathematics, as well as for mechanical and ornamental drawing. There is also a valuable and
well-selected library of 5099 volumes. The reading and news room is much used. The premises are far too small, as well as most
#umbrel of $alfort—33dſtom 33arish. 563
unsuitable, for the requirements of the members. Subscriptions have been raised for new premises, now in course of erection in
Mawdsley Street. The new building will be a large and elegant structure of three storeys and basement, in the Romanesque style
of architecture, designed by Messrs. Cunliffe and Freeman of Bolton. It will cost about £6300. Its arrangements are very com-
plete and convenient.
The Infirmary and Dispensary was founded in 1814. The building now occupied is at the west end of Nelson Square. It is
Grecian in style—substantial without much ornamentation. It was erected in 1825, and has subsequently been enlarged by the
addition of two wings and an additional storey. Number of patients admitted during the year ending March 7, 1867 –Ordinary
patients, 1428; home, 1061; in, 129—total, 2618. The cost of maintenance is £1250 per annum.
The Baths and Assembly-Room, in Lower Bridgman Street, were built by a company of shareholders in 1846, at a cost of
£5593. Like several of the other public buildings, it is in the Grecian style; the second storey being used as an assembly-room
for balls, lectures, concerts, etc. It is 90 feet by 30 feet, and supported by five stone columns. The baths comprise two swimming-
baths for males, 58 feet by 19 feet and 48 feet by 18 feet; and two for females, 21 feet by 18 feet, and 17 feet by 12 feet; and a number
of public and private tepid and shower baths of two classes.
The Temperance Hall, in St. George's Road, Little Bolton, was erected by subscription in 1838, for the meetings of the
Temperance Society, and as a Public Assembly and Concert Room. It is 26 yards long and 21 broad, and has a gallery round
three sides of the room. It will accommodate 1500 persons sitting. Its original cost was £2200.
The Concert Hall has been taken down for the new County Court offices.
The Theatre, in Churchgate, is a plain building, affording accommodation for about 1800 persons. It cost about £2000. The
stage with its machinery is considered very good. It is open about nine months in the year. Connected with it, and forming part of
it, is a museum.
PARKS.—The Public Park was opened 24th May 1866. It is situated between Chorley Road and Spa Lane. The principal
entrance is from Chorley Road. It has an area of about 48 acres of land, purchased from the Ecclesiastical Commissioners, the earl
of Bradford, and Miss Pilkington. It was laid out with great taste and judgment under the direction of Mr. Henderson of Birken-
head. The series of lakes in what was Sampson's Clough is very picturesque. The total cost to this time (Nov. 1867) is about
£30,000, besides a chief rent not yet redeemed. The Heywood Recreation Ground is between Lever Street, High Street, and
Bridgman Street. It is about 9 acres in extent, 3% acres of which were given by Mr. Alderman Heywood. The remainder is
purchased subject to a chief rent of £142 per annum. A part of it is tastefully laid out in parterres, flower-borders, etc. A good
bowling-green has been formed, and the remainder laid out as playgrounds. It was opened at the same time as the Public Park
(1866). Bradford Park, at the east side of the borough, is about 20 acres in extent. The earl of Bradford reserves the legal
right to the land; he however defrayed the cost of formation, and keeps the grounds in condition. It is used principally as a play-
ground, and was opened in 1854.
The CEMETERY is near Tong Fold, on the Bury Road, just outside of the borough. It covers 29 acres of land, which is
enclosed by a stone boundary-wall, about a mile in length. It contains three chapels: one for the Church of England in the Early
English style of architecture, 50 feet by 13 feet; one for the Dissenters in the same style, which will seat 230 persons; and one for
the Roman Catholics, of mediaeval character, 50 feet by 13 feet. There are two meat entrance-lodges. Its total cost was £17,044.
It was opened 28th December 1856.
The ExCHANGE is a substantial building of polished stone, in the Grecian style, with appropriate enrichments. It was opened
in 1828. The lower room is used as a news-room, and the upper rooms are occupied by the public library.
VoIUNTEERS.–In the unsettled state of society consequent upon the breaking out of the French Revolution at the end of the
last century, the king, George III., accepted the offer of its inhabitants to form a volunteer regiment, which was raised in 1794,
under the command of Captain Hindle. It consisted of two companies, which in 1798 were augmented to four companies, num-
bering 250 men, when the captain was promoted to the rank of lieutenant-colonel. It was disbanded after the peace of Amiens, in
1802. In 1803, a regiment called the “Bolton Volunteers,” consisting of 10 companies and 1019 men, was formed under the
command of Colonel Fletcher, who was second in command in the former regiment. In 1808 it volunteered into the local militia
for the division of Bolton, consisting of 12 companies and 1423 men. It was disbanded in 1815. In 1803, a corps of cavalry
was formed. It was named the “Bolton Light Horse Volunteers,” and consisted of two troops under Major Pilkington, and existed
till 1816. In 1819 the present “Yeomanry Cavalry” was formed. In 1859 a regiment of Rifle Volunteers (the 27th Lancashire
Rifle Volunteers) was formed in Bolton. For some time it laboured under the disadvantage of a want of suitable quarters, but this
was removed by the purchase of the old workhouse in 1863 at a cost of £2000. About £1000 was spent in adapting it to the
requirements of the corps. It is now one of the best volunteer barracks in the kingdom. There are two armouries, clothing-store,
Orderly-room, quarters for the adjutant and three staff-sergeants, band-room, large mess-room, stables, magazine, and other conveniences,
'besides a drill-ground of nearly an acre. The stores of the Yeomanry Cavalry are kept here. The rifle-range is on Kearsley Moss,
about 4 miles from the town. It extends to 600 yards, and cost £500 in formation. Under the management of the present adjutant,
Edward Lyttelton Francis, esq., the regiment has rapidly increased in number and efficiency. Its strength, December 1, 1867 (the
date of the last return), was —Commissioned officers, 26; Sergeants, 45; corporals, privates, and brass and fife bands, 649; total
strength, 720, of whom 98 per cent were returned as effective, and 45 per cent earned the extra government grant of 10s, each
for successful target-practice. The cost of maintenance of the regiment is about £1000 per annum, which is made up of the
government grant, annual subscriptions of officers and honorary members, and the subscriptions of non-effective members. The
regiment is under the command of Lieutenant-Colonel Gray, M.P. ; T. R. Bridson and Arthur Bayley, esq.S. are the majors.
During 1867 subscriptions amounting to £2300 were made to pay off the mortgage on the barracks and to provide new uniforms for
the men. In 1860 a battery of artillery was formed in Bolton in connection with the 18th L.A.W. A second battery has since been
formed. The present strength is —Commissioned officers, 6 ; Sergeants, privates, and band, 199; total strength, 205. An excel-
lent shed for gun-drill has recently been built. . The captain commandant is Charles F. Ainsworth, esq., major of the 3d brigade
L.A.W. A third battery is in course of formation.
There are in Bolton the usual varieties of Friendly Societies, Sick and Burial Societies, Freemasons, Oddfellows, Druids,
Foresters, Shepherds, etc.; and also various forms of Temperance Societies, as Total Abstinence or Teetotallers, Rechabites, Bands
of Hope, etc. **,
&ºnve SOCIETIES.—Several Societies on the limited liability principle have been established in Bolton. The most
prominent among these are a cotton-spinning company, a finance and building society, merchant tailors' company, carriage
company, etc., but the most extensive in its operations is “The Great and Little Bolton Equitable Industrial Society,” established
in 1859. It carries on the business of provision-dealers, drapers, tailors, shoemakers, and milliners. The central stores are in
Bridge Street, in a large and handsome building in the Romanesque style, from designs by Mr. Cunliffe of Bolton. The several
departments are conducted in separate shops on the ground-floor. It contains suitable work-rooms, offices, reading-room, and an
elegant assembly-room capable of seating 500 people. The cost of the building was £5795, and a further sum of £982 has been
spent upon fixtures. The paid-up capital of the society is £17,737. There are branches in Newport Street, Derby Street, and at
Daubhill. The net profits are about £4000 per annum, 2% per cent of which is appropriated as an “educational fund” for the
maintenance of a reading-room and library for the use of the members. No member is allowed fewer than five £1 shares, nor
more than 100, which may be paid up at the rate of threepence and upwards weekly.
WORKING-MEN'S MODEL DWELLINGS.–Dr. Chadwick of Southport, formerly a surgeon in Bolton, gave to the latter town
(January 1868) about £17,000 for the erection of working-men's model dwellings in different parts of the borough, and an
564 QThe #istory of 3Lancagüirº.
orphanage. He proposes that the dwellings thus erected shall be rented at five per cent of their cost, the proceeds to be appro-
priated to the maintenance of the orphanage. The charity will be for girls in the first instance, but, if the funds are found to be
sufficient, boys will also be admitted. A meeting of gentlemen of the town was held in January 1868, under the presidency of
the Mayor (Alderman Barlow), and a resolution was passed accepting the doctor's noble gift. Messrs. Harrison Blair, P. Martin,
R. Heywood, and J. Hick accepted the office of property trustees; and the Mayor, the members for the borough (Colonel Gray and
Mr. Barnes), and several other gentlemen, were appointed to carry out the donor's charitable intentions.
OLD HALLS.–Though there are various old halls and mansions within a few miles of Bolton, there are but few in this parish.
Thus, Smithells Hall, about two miles from Bolton, is in the parish of Dean ; Great Lever Hall, though only two miles from
Bolton, is in the parish of Middleton ; and these halls are noticed in their respective parishes. Of the old halls in the parish of
Bolton may be named Turton Tower in Turton township, Hall-i'-th’-Wood in Tonge township, Longworth Hall in that town-
ship, and Lostock Hall in the township of Lostock. These are all noticed in their respective townships.
In 1792, at the dawn of what may be called the age of improvement in Bolton, an act was obtained for
inclosing Bolton Moor and improving the town. This waste consisted of two hundred and fifty acres; and
after the claims of the five manorial lords had been satisfied, the remainder of the land was sold off in lots,
and the proceeds appropriated to the purpose of public improvements.
The Parliamentary Reform Act, as finally passed by the legislature, conferred upon this town the privilege
of returning two members to parliament. The reform bill, as originally introduced to the House of Commons by
Tord John Russell, in March 1831, only provided for the return of one member, but that number was increased
on the petition of the clergy, magistrates, and inhabitants of the towns of Great and Little Bolton, representing
“that the population of those towns is about 43,686, and the number of houses 7791; but both towns have
of late greatly increased, and are still rapidly increasing, both in population and wealth, being the centre of
the cotton trade, and possessing practical facilities for the promotion and extension of that manufacture, and
praying that the two towns may return two members.” From the summary of the information collected by
the commissioners, it appears that, in 1831, the number of houses assessed to the poor's-rate in Great
Bolton was 5002, and in Little Bolton 2418 ; and that in the former there were 1234 houses, worth £10
a-year and upwards, and 338 in Little Bolton of similar value. From these returns it was enacted that this
borough should be invested with the franchise of returning two members, and that the boroughreeves of
Great and Little Bolton should be the returning officers. And by the act for settling and describing the
divisions of counties and the limits of cities and boroughs, it was enacted, “that the several townships of
Great Bolton, Little Bolton, and the adjoining township of Haulgh, except that detached part of the township
of Little Bolton which is situated to the north of the town of Bolton, should form the boundaries of the
borough.” The following are the elections since the Reform Act of 1832:—
BOLTON.—(Two MEMBERs.)
ELECTORS IN 1832, 1040. IN 1865, 2181.
JElections. JElections.
1832. Dec. Colonel Robert Torrens . s (L.) 627 f On Dr. Bowring being appointed Consul
William Bolling . •e * (c.) 492 ‘. at Canton :
J. Ashton Yates . s -: (L.) 482 1849. Jan. Sir Joseph Walmsley, Knt. . (L.) 621
William Eagle * & º (L.) 107 T. R. Bridson & & (C.) 568
1835. Jan. William Bolling . e * (C.) 633 1852. July. Thomas Barnes . g * (L.) 745
Peter Ainsworth , º * (L.) 590 Joseph Crook º * e (L.) 727
Andrew Knowles . . . e (L.) 343, Stephen Blair º & g (c.) 717
&=º Peter Ainsworth . ſº g (L.) 346
1837. Aug. Peter Ainsworth . us * (L.) 615 *-ºm-º.
William Bolling . & * (c.) 607 1857. March. William Gray g g . (L. C.) 94.1
Andrew Knowles . g g (L.) 538 Joseph Crook ſº g * (L.) 904
ºmsºmºsººg Thomas Barnes * * e (L.) 841
1841. June. Peter Ainsworth . e & (L.) 669 wº-º-º-º-º-º-º-º:
John Bowring, LL.D. . * (L.) 614 1859. April. William Gray t g . (L. C.)
Peter Rothwell g * g (c.) 536 Joseph Crook & tº g (L.)
William Bolling . & g (c.) 441
— On Mr. Crook accepting the Chiltern Hundreds:
1847. Aug. William Bolling . & . (L. C.) 714 1861. Feb. Thomas Barnes * * (L.) 1
- John Bowring, LL.D. . * (L.) 652 *-*-es-,
John Brooks . g * * (L.) 645 1865. July. Lieutenant-Colonel William Gray (c.) 1022
*—ss-ses Thomas Barnes & & e (L.) 979
On the death of Mr Bolling : Samuel Pope . 6. e g (L.) 866
1848. Sept. Stephen Blair * & (C.) William Gibb & * & (c.) 727
- The (parliamentary) electoral returns for 1865-6 give the following particulars as to the parliamentary
borough of Bolton —Population in 1831, 42,245 ; in 1861, 70,395 ; in 1866 (computed), 75,516. In-
habited houses in 1861, 13,129. Number of electors on the parliamentary register (£10 occupiers) in 1832-3,
1040; in 1865-6, 2293; but, deduct the double entries (107), the actual number of electors was 2186, of
whom 1887 voted at the last general election. The number of working-men on the present parliamentary
register is 467. Number of burgesses, 8092; burgesses whose rates are assessed on or compounded for by the
owner, 4769; number of burgesses on the parliamentary register, 1924. The Small Tenements Act is in force
ºumbrel of $alfort—33dſtom 33arigly. - 565
in two of the three parishes. The number of burgesses prior to its adoption was 2539. The gross estimated
rental in 1856 was £178,882; in 1865-6, £226,476; increase £47,594. The rateable value in 1856 was
£149,078, in 1862, £172,822; and in 1865-6, £184,488. The gross annual value of all messuages or tenements
and lands, including tithe rent-charge according to the income-tax assesment, schedule A, is £240,314.
The gross estimated rental of such property, according to the valuation-list or poor-rate, is £213,713." The
number of male occupiers, at a gross estimated rental of under £10, is 94.67 ; £10 and over, 2737; total,
12,213. Male occupiers at a rateable value of £4 and under £10, 7268; £10 and over, 1941; total 9209.
The gross estimated rental, it is stated, represents the full rack-rent in two of the townships, and in the
third, Little Bolton, it is about five per cent below. A deduction of fifteen per cent in Tong-with-Haulgh,
and of twenty per cent in the other two townships, is made from the gross estimated rental in estimating
the rateable value of houses at and under £10.
The armorial bearings (which are arms of assumption) of Bolton are—gules, two bends or : crest, on
a wreath, an elephant and castle.
LOCAL EVENTS AND OCCURRENCES.”
696. Great famine in Lancashire, -
1067. Roger de Poictou, first lord of the manor of Bolton.
1074. Bradshaw Hall erected.
1100. Manor of Bolton passes into the hands of Roger de Mersheya.
1101. Turton Tower erected ; tournament held there in 1301.
1154. The De Lacys, lords of the manors of Bolton, Breightmet, and Bury.
1160. Woollen cloth trade exists in Bolton.
1232. Earl of Derby became lord of the manor.
1256. Bolton raised to a market-town by charter of Henry III.
1337. Flemish clothiers settle in Bolton. Wooden shoes (clogs) and jannock introduced by emigrant Flemish weavers.
1412. Bolton Parish Church supposed to have been erected, though on the demolition of the Old Church in 1866, evidences
were discovered that a church of the Norman period, some 300 years earlier, must have existed on the same site. The Old Church
was re-edified 1527, and about 1533 appears to have been in its greatest perfection.
1486. Market Cross erected of stone in Churchgate. Little Bolton Manor-house built.
1510. Cotton-yarns spun at Horwich. - - -
1513. Sir E. Stanley raises bowmen at Bolton to fight at Flodden Field; and it was to the “Bolton lads” who thus dis-
tinguished themselves that the following inscription on the walls of the parish church in 1701 had reference —
The bolt shot well, I ween,
From arablast of yew-tree green,
(Many nobles prostrate lay)
At glorious Flodden Field.
1540. Leland visits Bolton. Blome, writing about a century later, describes Bolton as a “fair well-built town, with broad
streets ; hath a market on Mondays, which is very good for clothing and provisions, and is a place of great trade for fustians.”
1555, July 1. John Bradford, a well-known preacher in this neighbourhood, was burnt at Smithfield for advocating the
reformed doctrines.
1563. Death of Richard Rothwell of Bolton, famed as an exorcist, who professed to have wonderful contests with demons. It
was the boast of one of his descendants, a celebrated peruke-maker in Bolton in the latter part of the 18th century, “I am a real
Rothwell; none of your Leeredge Rothwells, but a descendant of him that beat the devil.” -
1565. Horwich Chapel existed, the commissioners for removing superstitious ornaments informing the bishop of Chester that
they had “taken away from Horwych Chappel, vestment, albe, altar-cloth, corporasse, and other idolatrous gear.” The old chapel
was taken down in 1831 and the present church built.
1575. Death of James Pilkington, D.D., bishop of Durham ; born at Rivington 1520; founded and endowed the Rivington
Free Grammar-School.
1577. Death of Rev. Thomas Lever of Little Lever, chaplain to Edward VI.
1587. Registers at parish church kept. j
1588. Preparations against the threatened Spanish invasion ; erection of watch-towers and fire-signals on Rivington Pike and
other hills. -- -
1590. Lostock Hall built by Christopher Anderton, esq.
1597. First marriage in the register of the parish church, 5th February: James Crompton of Bolton and Dorothi Dudson of ideane.
1602. Haulgh Hall built.
1603. Witchcraft prevalent ; several persons executed. Farnworth Hall built.
1610. Death of Bancroft, archbishop of Canterbury, a native of Farnworth.
1619. In the parish church register are these entries: “Andrew Barton, of Smithells, on the 14th of March was buried under
the great chancel.” “Christopher Anderton, of Lostock, gent., buried below the church, 12th November.” According to tradi-
tion, these burials, as of other old families, were performed after dark by torchlight, attended with great pomp and an immense
number of followers. It is also said that the interior of the church was illuminated.
1620. Ralph Assheton of Great Lever created a baronet; his son Ralph, also of Great Lever, elected M.P. for Clitheroe, 1640,
and succeeded his father as a baronet ; died 1680.
1623. Plague in Bolton ; one-third of the inhabitants destroyed. Bolton parish contained only 2500 inhabitants, and Great
and Little Bolton 500. The number of burials this year in the parish churchyard was nearly 500; in 1593 the number was only 45.
* It is stated that a great many cellar dwellings have been the correct amount after allowance for rates, etc.), appear in the
recently closed by the borough authorities, and are therefore not income-tax assessment at £6 and £7, and it is the same with regard
in the rate-book. In schedule A the mills and works are returned at to other property.
considerably more than their gross annual value, as ascertained by * Extracted by permission from a “Chronological History of
a recent special valuation. Cottages, the rentals of which are 2s. Bolton,” compiled by James Clegg, specially for the Bolton
per week, and which are assessed to the poor-rate at £4 (which is Chronicle.
566 Ǻr #istorm of £amcagüirº.
Parish Church Lectureship founded by Rev. James Gosnell (said to have been ejected from the vicarage for nonconformity), who
bequeathed for that purpose certain lands at Balderstone; in 1691 it was further endowed by the lords of the manor by the gift of
eight acres of land on Bolton Moor. * -
- 1628. Turton Tower and Manor sold to Humphrey Chetham of Clayton, gentleman, and having continued in various branches
of his family for more than two centuries, were sold some years ago to James Kay, esq., in whose possession they still remain.
1629. Dr. John Bridgman, bishop of Chester, purchased the manor of Great Lever from the Assheton family, rebuilt the hall,
and resided here during some part of the rebellion. &
1633. Sixteen persons excommunicated by Dr. Syddall in the metropolitan visitation held at Bolton this year; they were de-
nounced in the parish church on December 7, 1634. Many of these were proceeded against in the ecclesiastical courts. These
excommunications commenced 1632, and the catalogue ends 1737-8.
1641. Bolton Free Grammar-School founded by Robert Lever, citizen of London. Amongst other celebrated masters at this
school have been Robert Ainsworth and Dr. Lempriere, authors of standard classical dictionaries, and the former of whom was
moreover educated here. Fustians and dimities first manufactured in Bolton.
1642. Civil war ; Bolton, which was termed the “Geneva of Lancashire,” and long considered the very school and centre of
Puritanism, takes up the cause of Parliament, is fortified and garrisoned by the Parliamentary forces. Parish church desecrated,
and for two years used as a storehouse for military accoutrements.
1643. Unsuccessful attack on Bolton by the forces of Charles I., February 25. Second unsuccessful attack on Bolton ; the
King's troops completely routed and many of them slain, March 28. -
1644. Prince Rupert's army of 10,000 horse and foot assembled on Dean Moor, previous to the storming and disastrous attack
on Bolton, May 27. Siege of Bolton by Prince Rupert and Earl Derby; defeat of the Parliamentary troops, and awful carnage
among the populace; 800 or 1000 Parliamentarians and 400 Royalists slain, and the banks of the Croal strewn with their bodies, May 28.
1651. James, seventh earl of Derby, beheaded at the Market Cross in Churchgate for supporting the cause of Charles I.,
Wednesday, October 15.
1653. The “toule of Bolton market is used to bee let for the yeare at 10s.” Humphrey Chetham, “a person of eminent
loyalty to his sovereign, exemplary piety to God, charity towards the poor, and good affection to learning,” died September 20,
aged 73, and was buried at the Manchester Collegiate Church, October 12. For the benefit of the poor of Turton he bequeathed
the farm at “Goose Cote Hill,” occupied for many years in later times as the Turton Workhouse.
1657. Banns of marriage published at Bolton Market Cross by the magistrates, who also during this period of the Common-
wealth solemnised marriages in the parish church. The practice seems to have been to publish the banns “on three market-days
in three several weeks betweene the hours of eleven and two.”
1662. Ejection of the Rev. Richard Goodwin, M.A., from the vicarage of Bolton and the service of the church for noncon-
formity, St. Bartholomew's Day, August 24. Mr. Goodwin, who was ordained by Bishop Bridgman at Great Lever and preached
some time at Cockey Chapel, died in 1685, aged 72, and was interred at the parish church of Bolton. He became vicar of Bolton
in 1644, the exact date being uncertain.
1663. The lecturer (then appointed by the ratepayers) preached at the Market Cross.
1665. Death of John Bradshaw, esq., of Bradshaw Hall, near Bolton ; high-sheriff of Lancashire, 1645.
1673. Rev. John Lever, vicar of Bolton to 1691.
1684. John Okey, the celebrated Puritan, died.
1685. Death of the Rev. Richard Goodwin, aged 72. After his ejection from the vicarage, he took out a license in 1672 and
preached twice every Lord's day at a private house in Bolton, where he died; he was succeeded in his meeting-place by the Rev.
John Leaver. Mr. Goodwin was buried on December 25 in the parish church. French refugee manufacturers from the Rhine
settle in Bolton. .
1690. Sir Charles Anderton, lay rector of Bolton, buried under the communion table in the chancel of the parish church. The
Andertons had a right of burial there, and a marble stone was to have been laid over the tomb, but the then vicar and church-
wardens refused to allow it, doubtless afraid that it would contain some Roman Catholic inscription.
1693. Hulton Charity School founded and endowed by Nathaniel Hulton.
1696. Bank Street Nonconformist (now Unitarian) Chapel erected.
1700. Death of James Cockerill, aged 106, occupier of the “Man and Scythe.” when the earl of Derby was executed. He was
buried in the parish churchyard on the 7th March. It is said that Cockerill suffered excessively in his family and fortune at the
capture of Bolton by the Royalists in 1644.
1702, May 4. Death of the Rev. Oliver Heywood, a celebrated Nonconformist divine, who was born March 1629, in Little
Lever. Though ministering elsewhere, Mr. Heywood frequently conducted the services at the original Nonconformists' Chapel at
the corner of Mealhouse Lane, Bolton (now occupied as a public house, the “Old Woolpack.”) He preached there on September
18, 1672, soon after it was opened ; and finally, in June 1696, when the congregation were about to remove to their new chapel in
Bank Street, he administered the Lord's Supper to about 500 communicants.
1703. Death of the Rev. John Crompton, minister of “Cockey Chapel,” Ainsworth, “a man of great worth and great
humility.”
#. Marsden Charity School in Churchgate founded by Thomas Marsden.
1727. Epidemic in Westhoughton; one-third of the inhabitants swept off.
1750. Erection of All Saints' Church, popularly known as the “Chapel in the Fields.” Richard, afterwards Sir Richard
Arkwright, carried on the business of a barber and peruke-maker in Churchgate.
1753. Samuel Crompton born at Firwood, 3d December.
1754. Duke's Alley Independent Chapel erected.
1755. Richard Arkwright, peruke-maker (afterwards Sir Richard), and Patience Holt, married at Bolton Parish Church,
31st March.
1756. Discovery of Roman urns at Crompton Fold. Cotton-Velvets first made by Jeremiah Clarke of Bolton.
1763. Muslin and cotton quiltings first made by Joseph Shaw of Bolton.
1766. Ridgway Gates Chapel built ; John Wesley afterwards preached therein.
1767. James Hargreaves, a Blackburn weaver, invented the spinning-jenny, by which he could spin from 16 to 30 threads at
once, and without the use of rollers.
1769. Richard Arkwright of Bolton patented a spinning-machine, which he called the “water-frame;” this machine carried a
great many spindles, and formed the thread by rollers.
1773. Population 5604—Great Bolton, 4568 ; Little Bolton, 1036. Houses, 1178.
1774. From a prize “merit” or ticket, in the possession of the present vicar of Bolton, the Rev. Canon Powell, it is evident
that there was a Sunday-school in existence, in connection with the parish church, so early as this time, though the date assigned
to the foundation of Sunday-schools by Raikes is some nine years later, or 1783.
1775. Invention of mule spinning-frame by Samuel Crompton of Hall-i’-th’-Wood, being a combination of the two discoveries
by Hargreaves and Arkwright—its hybrid character, combining the jenny and the water-frame, causing it to be designated the
“Mule.” Henry Ashworth, esq., mentions that the “mule” is capable of spinning a pound of cotton to the length of 950 miles,
or 2000 hanks, the “water-frame” being capable of spinning a pound of cotton to the length of 19 miles, or 40 banks.
#umbrel of $alfort—33dſtom 33arisiſ. 567
1779. Machine-breaking riots, Samuel Crompton concealing his first mule in the attic of the Hall-i'-th'-Wood.
1780. Crompton generously gave his invention to the public. First spinning-mill in Bolton erected in King Street by James
Tweats or Thwaites. -
1782. Samuel Oldknow commenced the manufacture of British muslims at Anderton.
1783. The bishop of Chester confirmed, at the parish church of Bolton, 1995 young persons, August 22. -
1786. James Holland executed on Bolton Moor for croft-breaking, September 18. Removal of the market-cross at which Earl
Derby suffered.
iž87. Thirty-three woollen manufacturers in Bolton, the woollen manufacture being the staple trade of the town.
1791. Formation of Bolton and Manchester Canal. Population : Great Bolton, 9000; Little Bolton, 2000.
1792. Act to enclose Bolton Moor and improve the town.
1793. Unexampled prosperity of Bolton muslin-weavers, who brought home their work in top-boots and ruffle-shirts.
1794. Bolton Volunteers raised ; disbanded at the peace of Amiens in 1802. In 1803 a new regiment of 1020 volunteers was
raised under the command of Ralph Fletcher, esq.; and in 1808 these transferred their services with their colonel to the local
militia, and served the country till 1815.
1796. Samuel Longworth gibbeted on Dean Moor for murdering a youth named Horrocks, a native of Westhoughton, to
possess his watch.
1798. Hulton Charity School endowed. The “Three Arrows” public-house occupied as a workhouse from about this time to 1811.
1801. William Callant of Bolton executed at Lancaster on the charge of having seduced a soldier from his allegiance.
Population, 17,416—Great Bolton, 12,549; Little Bolton, 4867.
1803. Pilkington Street Roman Catholic Chapel erected. Bridge Street Wesleyan Chapel erected. Bolton Light Horse
Volunteers raised wholly from the gentry; disbanded in 1818. About this time Robert Tannahill, whom Mr. French describes as
“one of Scotland's sweetest song-writers” (author of “Jessie, the Flower of Dunblane,” etc.), was a weaver of Cambric muslins
in Bolton.
1807. Mawdsley Street Independent Chapel erected.
1808. Disturbances in manufacturing districts; weavers' turn-out in Bolton—flash fight.
1811. Erection of Fletcher Street Workhouse. Population, 24, 149—Great Bolton, 17,070 ; Little Bolton, 7079.
1812. Burning of Westhoughton Factory by the Luddites, April 24. Execution of three men and a boy for the offence. . They
were tried at a special assize at Lancaster, and hung there June 13th. . A cart was sent from Westhoughton for their remains, in
order that they might have “Christian burial” amongst their own kindred; but it had to return without them. June 24, Parlia-
ment voted Samuel Crompton £5000 for his invention of the mule.
1814. Bolton Dispensary opened, June 7.
1815. Rejoicings in commemoration of Waterloo. Napoleon shot and burnt in effigy.
1817. Second Improvement Act obtained for Great Bolton.
1818. The pillory continued in use till about this time. This ancient instrument of punishment was erected at the parish
pump, on the site of the old market-cross in Churchgate. Offenders thus exposed were frequently pelted with rotten eggs.
“Rogues and Vagabonds” were tied to cart-tails and whipped out of the town by the bellman. In 1817 a man was pilloried here
and flogged by the bellman, and in 1818 a woman was exposed in the pillory. It was not till 1837 that the pillory was legally
abolished. Bolton Gas Company established, March 4. Bolton Savings Bank established, March 7. Ormrod's first cotton-mill
destroyed by fire.
1819. Duke of Lancaster's Own Yeomanry Cavalry raised. Fletcher Street Methodist Chapel built. Streets of Bolton first
lighted with gas, May 1. Parish Church School opened, November 19.
1821. Discovery of ancient armour in Haulgh, Population of Great and Little Bolton, 31,295.
1822. Baptist Chapel (Moore Lane) built. Newport Street Primitive Methodist Chapel erected.
1823. Independent Methodist Chapel opened. General turn-out of factory operatives—turn-outs billeted at other people's
houses. Bolton Express established July 5.
1824. According to Brown, who about this time published an incomplete history of Bolton, “The accession of new inhabitants
and new dwelling-houses in 1824 was greater than during the long interval between 1587 and 1710.” . First local Waterworks Bill
obtained royal assent June 17. Mr. Sadler ascended in a balloon from the Bolton Gasworks, and was killed in his descent at Church
Bank, Whalley, September 29. Bolton Chronicle established October II. -
1826. Opening of the New Market Square. Trinity Church opened September II. Mr. Green ascended in a balloon from
Bolton August 30, and again September 11.
1827. Samuel Crompton, inventor of the mule, died in his house in King Street, Great Bolton, June 26, aged 74 years, “ of
no particular complaint,” but, in the language of his biographer Mr. French, “by the gradual decay of nature, increased if not
hastened by a life brimful of corrosive cares and mental sorrows.” The Bolton Express ceased.
1829. Bequests of large sums of money to various charitable institutions in the town by Mr. John Popplewell, a gentleman of
the medical profession and a native of the parish, who died the same year. The bequests of this benefactor amounted to £15,099.
His sisters Ann and Rebecca, who died in 1831, left £12,600 for similar benevolent purposes. Exchange opened. Old Mill Hill
factory burnt down ; one of the military killed while guarding the ruins.
1830. Trustees’ Improvement Act obtained for Little Bolton.
1831. Opening of the Bolton and Kenyon Railway for goods January 1, for passengers June 13. Population of Great and
Little Bolton, 41,195.
1832. Ralph Fletcher, esq. of The Hollins, for many years one of the most active magistrates of the Bolton bench, and
lieutenant-colonel of the Bolton local militia, died February 22, aged 74. Enfranchisement of Bolton under the Reform Bill.
1833. Death of Isaac Dobson, esq., aged 66 years, founder of the eminent machine-making establishment of Messrs. Dobson
and Barlow, one of the oldest of the kind in Europe.
1835. Bolton Free Press established November 19. Formation of Bolton British School, Edmund Ashworth, esq., presiding
over preliminary meeting held in February in the town-hall.
I836. Higher Bridge Street Primitive Methodist Chapel opened.
1838. Bolton and Manchester Railway opened May 29. Destruction of Royal George cotton-mill by fire, 25th June ; Seven
lives lost. Emmanuel Church erected. Charter of incorporation granted October 11. November 9. George Henderson, a young
Scotchman, shot on Horwich Moor, on his way to Belmont ; murderer never discovered. First election of town-councillors, November
30. First mayor (C. J. Darbyshire, esq.) and aldermen, December 1. Formation of Bolton Poor-law Union, comprising 26 townships.
1839. Terrific hurricane in Bolton, great destruction of property, January 7. First bench of borough magistrates created,
February 18. Court of Quarter Sessions granted. Chartist riot ; Chartists went in procession to parish church, and committed
great excesses, Sunday, August 16. Government police (about forty in number) supersede those of the corporation and borough-
reeves, November 5.
1840. Elizabeth Lum built six almshouses at the Folds, in Little Bolton, for twelve widows or spinsters above 60 years of age,
each of whom to receive a weekly allowance. Temperance Hall opened, January 1.
1841. Population of Great Bolton, 33,603; Little Bolton, 16,144; Bolton Union, 97,519. Great depression of trade in Bolton.
According to a pamphlet published by Mr. H. Ashworth, out of fifty mills in Bolton, usually employing 8124 work-people, thirty
568 - The History of Lancashire.
mills and 5061 work-people were either standing idle or working only four days per week; the loss in wages being at the rate of
over £200,000 per annum. -
1842. Charter of incorporation confirmed, August 12. Great depression of trade; dearness of provisions; fearful increase of
pauperism. Plug-drawing riots, August 12; 1300 unoccupied houses in Bolton ; 10,000 persons receiving parochial relief. Death
of Benjamin Hick, esq., the well-known ironfounder, September 9, aged 52. First contested municipal election.
1843. Betty Eccles, the poisoner of her step-children at The Folds, executed at Kirkdale, 6th May. Bolton and Preston
Railway opened, June 22. -
1844. Explosion at Brooks's Mill, three persons killed, July 2. Christ Church consecrated. New Jerusalem Church, Bridge
Street, opened, October 29. John Slater, esq., elected mayor (November 9) by the casting vote of the retiring mayor, Mr. Gregson,
the numbers being 24 for Mr. Slater and 24 for Mr. Stephen Blair. At the same meeting, immediately after the election of six
conservative aldermen, the council, by 22 votes against 19, dismissed the town-clerk, Mr. James Winder ; and, by 22 votes against
10, elected as his successor Mr. James Kyrke Watkins.
1845. First conservative mayor, Stephen Blair, esq., November. Explosion at Rothwell and Kitt's Mill, 14 lives lost,
Monday, December 15. Lever Bridge terra cotta Church consecrated, June ; parsonage of terra cotta finished and opened,
July 1852.
1846. Panic in the iron-trade. St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church erected.
1847. Bolton Free Press ceased, January 16. Bolton District County Court opened, April 16. Improvement Act empowering
corporation to purchase waterworks, etc. Depression in the cotton-trade ; reduction of 10 per cent wages.
1848. Bolton and Blackburn Railway opened, June 13. William Bolling, esq., M.P., of Darcy Lever Hall, died, August 30,
aged 63. Liverpool and Bury Railway opened, November 30.
1849. St. John's Church consecrated, December 18.
1850. Bolton Improvement Act received royal assent, July 15.
1851. Population of the borough, 61,172—Great Bolton, 39,923; Little Bolton, 19,989; Haulgh, 1362; Bolton Union, 114,168.
Wesley Chapel, Bradshawgate, opened, July 11. Explosion at Great Lever Colliery, three lives lost, November 8; two bodies not
recovered till December 31. The Queen visits Worsley, October 9, 10, 11. Prince Albert visits Bolton and Dean Mills, Halliwell,
October 11. First-ordination in the Bolton parish church by bishop of Manchester, December 21.
1852. Disputes in the iron trades; 10,353 hands on strike in Bolton and Manchester district, January 10. Public Free Library
and Museum Act adopted by the burgesses, March 26; 662 voted for and 55 against it. Destruction of Star Inn concert-room by
fire, July 13. Three persons killed by the falling of the Star Inn wall, July 19. Railway accident at Bullfield, suicide of the
pointsman, August 23. Opening of factory operatives' exhibition and bazaar in commemoration of Ten Hours' Bill, September 24.
Methodist New Connection Chapel, St. George's Road, opened, November 14. Rain fell in Bolton seventy-seven days con-
secutively (including twelve Sundays), terminating December 25. Hurricane on Christmas morning. Season of unexampled
prosperity ; erection of mills; general improvement of the town.
1853. Railway accident at Clifton Junction, six persons killed and upwards of fourteen injured, March 4. Bolton Free Library
opened, October 12. Strikes among the factory operatives for an advance of 10 per cent.
1854. Great Snow-storm ; railways and highways blocked up by Snowdrifts, traffic impeded, works stopped, in some instances
the snow reaching to the bedroom windows of dwellings, January 1 to 5; on the 2d, at 8.30 P.M., the thermometer stood at 26
degrees below the freezing-point. Lord Bradford set apart twenty acres of ground between Tonge bridge and Lever bridge as public
park, January 20. Opening of the Industrial Ragged Schools, Commission Street, June 19, Improvement Act received royal
assent, July 10. John Albinson of Chapel Alley, the well-known antiquary, died August 24, aged 79 years : his library consisted
of 20,000 volumes, including the celebrated Bowyer Bible (45 volumes), purchased for £600 by Alderman Robert Heywood of The
Pike, in whose possession it now remains. -
1855. Severe frost from middle of January to beginning of March ; great distress in iron and cotton trades; soup kitchens
established ; 7000 hands unemployed. Opening of the Church Institute, July 30. Consecration of St. James' Church, Breightmet,
November 1. Market Hall opened, December 19.
1856. Wellington Mills, Little Bolton, destroyed by fire, July 9. Bank Street Unitarian Chapel reopened (after being rebuilt),
August 21. The cemetery in Tonge opened, December 28. Rev. Canon Slade resigned the vicarage of Bolton after nearly forty
years' ministration, December 29, retiring to his rectory at West Kirby. ;
1857. Rey. Henry Powell inducted to the vicarage of Bolton, February 7. Post Office removed from Bradshawgate to Market
Square, 12th May. Heaton Waterworks completed and water first turned on, July 15. Commercial crisis; depression in the
cotton and iron trades, November and December.
1858. Destruction of Great Moor Street Railway Station by a luggage-train, one man killed, January 28. Corner-stone of new
workhouse at Fishpool laid, September 8. Captain E. S. Kearsley of Bolton, when out hunting, had his horse killed by falling
down a coal-pit ; he most miraculously escaped, October 23. Redistribution of Bolton Lectureship Charity sanctioned, December 10 :
lecturer to have £150 per annum, and vicar not exceeding £100 in augmentation of his vicarage income to £350; surplus funds
towards the creation of new ecclesiastical districts in the ancient parish. Thomas Bonsor Crompton, esq., the eminent paper-manu-
facturer, and the last male representative of the Farnworth branch of the Cromptons, died September 8.
1859. Theatre in Mawdsley Street converted into a concert-hall, opened February 16. Died at the Bolton Workhouse, March
22, Esther Holden, a native of Edgworth, aged 105 years. First drinking-fountain in Bolton erected near Swan Hotel, June 10.
Visit of Historic Society of Lancashire and Cheshire to Bolton and Rivington, July 2. Life and Times of Samuel Crompton,
inventor of the spinning-mule, published by G. J. French, esq., August 27. Bolton Volunteer Rifle Corps established, November 15.
1860. January. Great Wesleyan chapel-building movement in the Bolton circuits.-May. Volunteer Artillery Company for
Bolton and Great Lever organised. 15. Death of Rev. Canon Slade at Crompton Fold, in the 78th year of his age.—June. R. R.
Rothwell, esq., of Sharples Hall, created a Count of the Sardinian Kingdom, by the title of Count (afterwards Marquess) de Rothwell.
—July 27. Mr. Crook's Bleachers' Short Time Bill read third time and passed in the House of Lords.-September 12 and 13. Great
Show in Bolton of the Manchester and Liverpool Agricultural Society. 29. Eugenie, Empress of the French, passed through
Bolton.—December 6. Heaviest rainfall of any day in this excessively wet year. Trade generally good throughout the year.
1861. January 24. Monument over Crompton's grave in parish churchyard.-February 9. Presentation to Mr. G. J. French of
a writing-desk made out of one of Crompton's mules.—March 14. 12,000 factory operatives on strike until 20th April against a
reduction of five per cent.—April 3. General turn-out of power-loom weavers of South Lancashire. 8. Population of Great Bolton,
43,435; Little Bolton, 25,892 ; Haulgh, 1069–total borough, 70,396; Bolton Union, 130,270.-May 20. Independent Oddfellows’
A.M.C. in Bolton. 31. Fletcher Street new Wesleyan Chapel opened.—August 1. Bleachers' Short Time Act came into operation.
3. Presentation of timepiece to Joseph Crook, esq., by the operative bleachers. 8. Opening of Holy Trinity Lever Street Schools.--
September 26. Opening new workhouse at Fishpool.—November 23. Peal of bells at Holy Trinity, presented by Dr. Chadwick.
—December. Great depression in cotton trade owing to civil war in United States. Trade generally dull.
1862. February. Spread of the Co-operative movement.—March 15. Corner-stone of new church of St. Paul, Deansgate, laid.
—April 6. Opening of new organ presented by Dr. Chadwick to the workhouse. 18. Corner-stone of Congregational Church, St.
George's Road, laid. 23-26. Volunteer Bazaar in Temperance Hall; proceeds £2640. Distress in Lancashire increasing rapidly;
first meeting at Mansion House, London (25th), to adopt means for its alleviation.—July. Rapid spread of distress, and formation
of relief committees throughout the manufacturing districts.-August. Stoppage of many mills in Bolton from the scarcity of cotton.
#umbrel of $alfort—160 ſton 43arish. 569
—September 24. Inauguration of Crompton statue ; balloon-ascent by Mr. Coxwell.—October 5. Opening of St. James's School
Church, Waterloo. 6. Lord Palmerston directed a gratuity of £50 to John, only surviving son of Samuel Crompton. 22. Public
meeting on the distress in the borough ; £4000 subscribed. 23. Gift of a free recreation-ground, Lever Street, Bolton Moor, by
Alderman Heywood. 10. Opening of Sewing-schools for unemployed mill-operatives. 6. Bolton special relief fundraised to £10,000.
16,647 persons relieved in the week by relief committee and board of guardians jointly. - -
1863, January. Operatives out of employment in the borough, 6405–March 4. Opening of Park Street Wesleyan Chapel.—
April 3. Opening of Congregational New Church, St. George's Road.—May. Retirement of Dr. Chadwick from Bolton; public
testimonials to himself and Mrs. Chadwick, including silver plate from the gentry. Commencement of corporation new reservoir at
Sweetloves.—July 11. Presentation at Southport to Dr. Chadwick of his full-length portrait, subscribed for by upwards of 7000
working men and women in Bolton; writing-desk from the same to Mrs. Chadwick—August 25. Adoption of Local Government
Act at Farnworth.-September. Extensive improvements projected in the borough under the Public Works Act.—October 6. Earth-
quake in Bolton. Formation of Working Men's Club in Bolton.—November 5. Adoption of Local Government Act at Halliwell.
26. Opening of St. Paul's Church,-December 3. Violent storm and destruction of property. , 5. Numbers in receipt of relief by
guardians, 4835; by relief committee, 2360. Continuance of cotton famine, though distress decreasing.
1864, January 13. Opening of St. James's Church, New Bury. February 17. Election of first Local Government Board,
Astley Bridge. , 27. Working Men's Club opened, Bank House. March 26. Operatives out of employment in the borough, 4730,
including 1524 handloom weavers. 30. Death of William Hulton of Hulton, esq., at Leamington, in the 77th year of his age ; he
was high-sheriff of the county in 1810; interred at the family vault, Dean Church. April 9. Presentation to the Rev. F. Baker,
M.A., and Mrs. Baker, on his retirement from the pastorate of Banks Street Chapel. June 3. Moses Holden, the celebrated
astronomer, a native of Bolton, died at Preston, aged 87 years. 28. Operatives out of employment, 2969; of these 1253 were hand-
loom weavers. July 4. Acceptance by the Farnworth Local Government Board of the Park on the Birch Hall estate, presented by
Thomas Barnes, esq., M.P., “for the free use of the inhabitants of Farnworth for ever.” 23. Corner-stone of Independent Sunday
School, Rose Hill, laid by Councillor Wilkinson. August 3. Explosion of naphtha-still at the gas-works, Moor Lane ; four men
killed and several injured. 9. Corner-stone of new fish-market laid by the mayor (Alderman Richard Harwood). 24. Opening of the
Tyldesley, Eccles, and Wigan railway. September 30. Operatives out of work, 3643; proportion of handloom weavers, 1108.
October 5. Ordination of the Rev. Jeffery Worthington to the ministry of Bank Street congregation. 11. The Right Hon. W. E.
Gladstone, M.P., Chancellor of the Exchequer, visited Bolton. 12. Inauguration of the People's Park at Farnworth by the Chancellor
of the Exchequer. 24. Meeting of working men on Market Square; resolution carried in favour of erection of a town-hall. December.
Employment in cotton-mills again increasing. 19. John Musgrave, esq., the venerable head of the firm of Messrs. Musgrave & Sons,
Globe Ironworks, died at the age of 80 years.
1865, January 21. Railway collision near Daubhill; three persons killed and eleven injured. February 2. Fire at the Higher
Mill of T. Barnes, esq., M.P., Dixon Green ; damage, £5000. 7. Death of Thomas Gregson, esq., at Southport, aged 70 years, one
of the first aldermen of this borough, and mayor in 1843-4. 15. Award of premiums by town-council for designs of town-hall–
1st prize, £120, Mr. William Hill of Leeds; 2d, £80, Mr. Thomas Turner of Glasgow and Manchester; and 3d, 4:40, to Mr. Cuthbert
Brodrick of London and Leeds. March 22. Death of the right hon. the earl of Bradford, at Weston Park, Salop, aged 75. 23.
Presentation of portrait to Alderman Richard Harwood, ex-mayor, by upwards of 5000 of the working classes of Bolton. , 30. Resigna-
tion of R. B. Armstrong, esq., Q.C., the recorder of Bolton from the time of its incorporation, , April 1. J. H. Ainsworth, esq. of Moss
Bank, Halliwell, died, aged 64 years. The church of St. Peter's, Halliwell, was rebuilt by him at a cost of several thousand pounds;
he also built and endowed St. Paul's Church, Halliwell, and erected three large and handsome schools in that parish. His charities
for the erection of church schools and similar objects in England and throughout the world amounted to upwards of £70,000, in
addition to his annual subscriptions to the various societies and his alms to the poor. 14. Eighteenth annual Sunday-school
conference for Lancashire, Cheshire, and Derbyshire, held in Bolton under the presidency of Thomas Barnes, esq., M.P. May 4.
Conference of South Lancashire Union of Baptist Churches, in Moor Lane Chapel. 9. Bolton Improvement Bill received royal assent.
17. Laying of the corner-stone of the new poor-law offices, Mawdsley Street, by Mr. Charles Hopwood of Harwood, chairman of the
Board of Guardians. 20. Improvement of trade in Bolton; discontinuance of the operations of the special relief committee; during
the existence of the committee, from August 1862, 41,160 reports of cases were heard, and 134,291 grants of food made; the committee
also heard 12,000 applications for clothing and bedding, and made grants to between 5000 and 6000 people ; the sums received for
distribution were—from local sources, £10,451 ; Manchester central executive committee, £14,526 ; and from the Mansion House
committee, £7964—total, £32,942, equal to a rate of 4s. 2d. in the pound ; in addition to this the committee received grants of
food equal in value to £612, and the profits at the relief stores amounted to £1184, which, with grants of clothing, made a total of
£34,107. 27. First festival of the Bolton Choral Union, in Holy Trinity Church. June 3. J. A. Russell, esq., solicitor-general of
the county palatine of Durham, appointed recorder of Bolton. 9. Adam Hampson, esq., surgeon, killed, and several other residents
of this town injured, in a railway accident at Staplehurst, Kent. 22. Opening of the new Independent Sunday-school, Rose-
hill. 29. Great scarcity of water. 31. Adoption of the Local Government Act at Kersley. October 9. Closing of the Farnworth
and Kersley relief committee ; total expenditure of the committee, £3221 : 1 : 10. 12. Banquet by the mayor (Alderman
Stockdale), at the Baths Assembly Room, to Sir James P. Kay-Shuttleworth, bart., vice-president of the late central executive
relief committee, Manchester. 18. Consecration of St. Matthew's Church, Little Lever. 30. Completion of the purchase of
the town-hall site; gross cost £32,343, net cost £31,000. November 11. Removal of Moor Lane Baptist congregation to the
Temperance Hall. 25. Death of James Scowcroft, esq., at his residence in Silverwell Street, aged 77. Previous to the
incorporation of the borough, deceased was one of the trustees of Bolton, the high-constable, and also the boroughreeve
during the year that the late Sir Robert Peel visited Bolton ; after the incorporation he was, in 1846, the second Conservative
mayor ; he was also for 52 years treasurer of the Bolton Prosecution Club ; for many years one of the property and income tax
commissioners of this town ; Some time sub-treasurer to the Bolton Dispensary and Infirmary ; an active trustee of Marsden's,
Mather's, or “Highstile School,” Hannah Low's, Brownlow's, and other charities; treasurer of the savings bank; and president of
the chemists' and druggists' association. 27. Cattle-plague in the Bolton division. December 7. Opening of new Wesleyan chapel
at Ringley. 9. The cotton-mill of Mr. J. Norbury, Chowbent, destroyed by fire; damage from £5000 to £10,000. 16. Consecration
of St. Paul's Church, Deansgate, by the bishop of Manchester. 22. Opening of the new fish-market.
1866, January 6 and 7. Great storm; doubling-mill blown down at Daubhill. , 11. Ordination of the Rev. Robert Mitchell,
M.A., as minister of St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, Bowker’s Row. Spread of the cattle-plague in the Bolton division. 23.
Death of Rev. James Spencer, aged 92, for nearly 50 years incumbent, and prior to that four years curate, at St. Ann's Church,
Turton, in the incumbency of which only one change took place during upwards of a hundred years—namely, when the Rev. J.
Spencer succeeded the Rev. Amos Ogden, who died in 1815, after nearly 55 years' ministerial duty. , 23. Death of Robert Knowles,
esq., in his 77th year, at his residence, West Bank: he was one of the old Bolton worthies; a self-made man; an active and consistent
member of the Wesleyan Society ; a zealous supporter of the temperance society, of which he was president ; and an advocate of the
short-time movement. February 13. Presentation of portrait to Mr. Charles Hopwood, chairman of the Board of Guardians, as a
mark of their esteem. March 23. Day of humiliation on account of the prevalence of the cattle-plague. April 4 and 5. Sale of the
Eskrick estates at Brownlow Fold; purchase of the old family mansion by Mr. Edward Eskrick; total proceeds of sale, nearly £20,000.
8. Closing services at the Old Parish Church. The churchyard and the approaches were crowded by five in the afternoon for the
evening service, and hundreds were unable to gain admission to the venerable edifice. The collections amounted to £216:10s. As
the vast congregation assembled within the church were singing the Old 100th Psalm, the solemn strains were taken up by the people
4 D
570 (The #igtorg of 3Lancashire.
in the churchyard and in the adjacent streets, the effect being sublime and impressive. Preparations for the demolition of the
building were commenced on the following day. 29. Death of John Brown Holden, esq., at his residence, Chorley New Road, aged
69 years; he was some years ago an active member of the town-council, and, as chairman of the markets committee, devoted great
attention to the erection of the market-hall. May 4. Death of Gilbert James French, esq., F.S.A., at his residence, Newport Square,
Manchester Road, aged 62. Mr. French took great interest in the Free Library and all local institutions; and it was during his
presidency of the Mechanics' Institution that he delivered those lectures on the “Life and Times of Samuel Crompton,” which rescued
the great inventor's name from comparative obscurity, and eventually led to the noble monument of Crompton which adorns Nelson
Square. Mr. French long held a conspicuous place amongst contemporary antiquaries, and was some years before his death elected
a fellow of the society of that learned body in Scotland; he was interred on the 9th in the family grave at Walmsley Church. 24.
Opening of the Bolton Park, and “Heywood” Recreation Ground, by the earl of Bradford. The park is situated in Spafields, and
is about 48 acres in extent, of which 33 are glebe-land. The “Heywood” recreation ground is on Bolton Moor : 3a. 2r. 36p. of it
is the present to the town of Mr. Alderman Heywood; the remainder, 27,587 square yards, being purchased by the town-council. June
24. Death of Mr. Robert Gardner, formerly of the firm of Gardner & Bazley of Dean Mills, Halliwell, in the 86th year of his age.
July 16. Turning of the first sod of the Wayoh reservoir by the mayor (Alderman Stockdale). 25. Explosion of naphtha at the premises
of Mr. Alfred Langshaw, chemist and druggist, Deansgate; Mr. Langshaw and four other persons killed. August 6 to 11. High
court meeting of the ancient order of Foresters held in Bolton. 8. Destructive whirlwind in Bolton: damage to houses, plantations,
and bleachworks; persons lifted off their feet by the violence of the wind, and several more or less injured. 23 to 25. Cricket-match
between the eleven of all England and twenty-two of Bolton and district, which resulted in the victory of the all-England by 140
runs. September 1. Execution of Thomas Grime of Chorley, aged 30, at Kirkdale, for the murder of James Barton, engineer at the
Balkhouse Colliery, Haigh, whose body was found burnt to ashes in the furnace of one of the boilers, on the morning of the 3d
January 1863. 8. Laying of the corner-stone of a new Wesleyan chapel at Astley Bridge, by Mrs. Thomas W. Heaton. 21. First
flow of water from the Dingle Lodge, at Belmont, into the reservoir at Sweetloves. 27. Opening of Holy Trinity new Sunday-schools;
total cost of buildings, including fittings, about £3200. 28. Cholera in Bolton. October 3. Henry Grimshaw, the celebrated jockey,
a native of Bolton, killed by being thrown out of his trap, near Cambridge. 6. The Rev. W. H. Taylor, B.A., one of the masters
of Rossall School, Fleetwood, appointed vicar of the parish of Farnworth-with-Kersley, vacant by the resignation of the Rev. Wm.
Burns, M.A. 28. The Rev. W. Westall ordained minister of the new Jerusalem church, Higher Bridge Street. November 3.
Disastrous fire on the farm of Mr. James Gillibrand, at Tong-with-Haulgh : eight cows burned to death. 7. Inauguration of the
new stores of the Bolton Co-operative Society (Limited), Bridge Street : cost of buildings and fittings, £4414, 16. Heavy storm and
disastrous floods and loss of life in Lancashire and Yorkshire. 19. Decline of cholera. Extraordinary rainfall this month : 6'53
inches during the first 18 days. December 7. Visit of Colonel Yolland, Government inspector to the Board of Trade, for the purpose
of examining into complaints made by the corporation as to the want of accommodation at the Bolton railway stations. 10. Explo-
sion at Messrs. Thomas Wright & Son's collieries, Hangingbank, Little Hulton : seven lives lost, and 18 persons seriously injured.
Dearness of provisions this year. Advance of wages of working classes generally.
The mean annual rainfall in Bolton during the 36 years ending December 31, 1866, was 47.25 inches.
1867, January 1. Art Exhibition inaugurated at Fletcher Street Wesleyan Sunday-school by his worship the Mayor (Fergus
Ferguson, esq.) 5. A beautiful two-light stained window, representing the Good Shepherd and the charge to St. Peter, erected
in the upper room of the Parish Church Sunday-schools, “in affectionate remembrance of Canon Slade, by the teachers who were
privileged to labour with him in these schools.” 9. William Plant, aged 24, a constable in the Warrington police force, found
decapitated upon the bridge on Manchester Road, on the Bolton and Bury Railway ; open verdict returned. 12. Fire at Messrs.
Blair and Summer's bleachworks, at Mill Hill; damage, £1000. 15. Great town's meeting in the Temperance Hall, in favour of
closing public houses on the Sunday. 17. The benefice of St. Michael, Great Lever, declared a rectory, under the 28th Vict.,
c. 42. 19. Richard Rainshaw Rothwell, esq. (Marquess de Rothwell), of Sharples Hall, placed upon the commission of the peace
for the county. , 22. Fire at the linen-mill of Mr. John Sharples, in Prospect Street ; damage, £1000. 24. Meeting at the
Coroner's Court, for the reclamation of “unfortunate” women. 27. Meeting of delegates of factory workers in Co-operative Hall;
resolutions passed in favour of a uniform Eight Hours' Bill, and the formation of boards of arbitration between employers and
employed. February 2. Window of stained glass erected by subscription in St. George's Church, to the memory of the late
James Scowcroft, esq. 8. Three boys drowned at the Trencherbone Colliery, Kersley, belonging to Messrs. Evans and Pilkington.
15. Death of Mr. Henry Bradbury, the well-known printer and stationer, Deansgate, in the 51st year of his age ; Mr. Bradbury
was the proprietor of one of the oldest stationery establishments in Lancashire. 19. William Cannon, esq., died at his residence,
Park Hill, in his 86th year. In 1805 he entered into an engagement with the late George Barnes, esq., of Bolton, at whose death,
in 1853, Mr. Cannon was appointed one of his executors. He was the oldest trustee of Bridge Street Methodist Chapel, where
his remains were interred by the permission of the Home Secretary, February 23d. 21. Opening of the new school connected
with St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church, in Bowker’s Row. March 7. Munificent offer of Dr. Chadwick of Southport, to give
£1000 towards the erection of a new infirmary in the suburbs of the town, and another £1000 towards the purchase of the present
infirmary and buildings, and their conversion to the purposes of a public museum and library. 9. Fire at the lock-up shop of
Mr. Thomas Crompton, pawnbroker, Moor Lane; damage, £3000. 27. Tender of Mr. John Thompson, builder, of Manchester,
for the erection of the superstructure of the Mechanics' Institution, for £4540, accepted. 30. Erection of a monumental tablet
in St. Peter's Church, Halliwell, to the memory of the late John Horrocks Ainsworth, esq., of Moss Bank, by the workpeople
employed by him. April 1. Boundary line between Farnworth and Kersley altered by the Farnworth Local Board. 5. Meeting
at the Temperance Hall in furtherance of an eight hours' bill for factories, and the establishment of boards of arbitration and
conciliation for the adjustment of disputes between masters and men. 17. Establishment of schools and workshops for the
blind in Bolton. 27. Corner-stone of the new parish church laid by Peter Ormrod, esq. of Halliwell Hall (by whom the church
is being rebuilt at an expense of £30,000), in the presence of the lord bishop of Manchester, the mayor and corporation, borough
and county magistrates, and a large number of the clergy and gentry of the town and neighbourhood. 28. Disastrous fire at
Sunnyside Mill, Daubhill, belonging to Messrs. Tootal, Broadhurst, Lee, and Co.; damage, £10,000. On the 4th June, an old
man named John Cain, of Kirk Street, was killed while assisting in pulling down the ruins. May 2 to 7. Meetings of the
Manchester district of the Primitive Methodist Connection held in Bolton. 8. Three men killed by an explosion at the Outwood
Colliery, Ringley Road, belonging to Messrs. Fletcher and Son. 13 to 17. The Manchester and Bolton Wesleyan Methodist
district meetings held at Park Street Chapel : presentation of an address to the Rev. John Hannah, D.D., on his retirement from
the full work of the ministry. 16. Great temperance meeting in Bolton, in connection with the services of the Wesleyan district
meeting, the mayor in the chair. 25. Foundation-stone of St. James's Church, Waterloo Street, laid by the Rev. H. Powell,
vicar of Bolton : estimated cost of the building, from £5500 to £6000. The Rev. Franklin Baker, M.A., formerly minister of
Bank Street Unitarian Chapel, died at Birmingham, in the 67th year of his age. Mr. Baker was born in that town in the year
1800. He graduated at the University of Glasgow in 1823. Soon afterwards, he became minister of Bank Street Chapel, where
he laboured most indefatigably for a period of forty years. In May 1864, Mr. Baker retired from the ministry. His remains
were interred at Birmingham. June 1. Third annual festival of the Bolton Choral Union in Holy Trinity Church. Increase of
passenger railway fares. 3, Establishment of a fire-brigade by the Farnworth Local Board. Fever at Fishpool Workhouse: death
of one of the nurses, making six within twelve months. 5. Meeting at Park Street Wesleyan Sunday-school: £8288 promised
towards a sum of £9000 for the erection of a new chapel and school on Halliwell New Road, to extinguish the debt on Park Street
Chapel, etc. 8. All the cotton-mills in the borough running full time; in the suburbs, mules standing for want of hands. 17.
39tumbret of $alfort—33dſtom 33arigly. 57.1
Royal assent given to the Farnworth Park and Improvement Bill; the cost of obtaining the bill was £1850. 19. The Board of
Guardians resolved to meet every alternate Wednesday, instead of every Wednesday. 25 to 28. Half-yearly conference of the
Miners' National Association held at the Co-operative Hall. 29. Meeting in Wesley Chapel School-room, Bradshawgate: £6929
promised towards a sum of £8500 for the erection of a new Wesleyan Chapel in Lever Street, the erection of a new school in
connection with the Wesley Chapel, etc. July 2. Meeting of Trades Unionists in the Temperance Hall: pledge of assistance to
the London operative tailors, and expression of regret at the escape of Broadhead from “the punishment he so amply deserves for
his manifold crimes.” 10. The town-council resolved, by thirty against seven, “that Bolton Park and the Heywood Recreation
Ground be open to the public on Sundays for the same time as on other days of the week.” 13. Fearful thunderstorm in Bolton
and the neighbourhood : the Alexandra Hotel beerhouse, in Mount Street, struck by the electric fluid ; extraordinarily rapid rise
of the river Croal, many cellars flooded, and other damage done. Memorial window erected in Christ Church; by her pupils and
friends, in memory of the late Miss M. A. Robinson, of Wentworth Place. Stained-glass window placed in Bank Street Unitarian
Chapel, by Mr. Alderman Richard Harwood, in memory of his daughter, Miss Margaret Harwood. 15. Rejoicings at Hulton Park
on the return from their bridal tour of Mr. W. W. B. Hulton with his newly-married wife, the only daughter of Ralph Rothwell,
esq., of Preston. Heavy rains in Bolton : bursting of a sewer in Bath Street, and several cellars flooded. , 16. Rev. Henry Powell,
vicar of Bolton, appointed an honorary canon of Manchester, in place of the late Archdeacon Master. 18 to 20. Grand match
between the All-England Eleven and Twenty-two of Bolton, at Back-o'-th’-Bank, which resulted in favour of the Bolton as follows:
total All-England 163, Bolton 259. 23. Severe thunderstorm at Little Lever : the house of Mr. John Greenhalgh, in Hall Lane,
struck by electric fluid. Incumbency of the ancient parochial chapelry of Westhoughton, vacant by the resignation of the Rev.
J. R. Alsop, B.A., who had held it for twenty-five years, conferred upon the Rev. William Henry Ranken, M.A., vicar of Radley,
Berks. 24. Explosion at the Anderton Hall Colliery, Blackrod, belonging to Messrs. Dewhurst, Hoyle, and Smethurst: Paul
Higson, aged 38, killed, and two others seriously injured. August 10. Cotton trade in rather a stagnant state, but numerous
mills being erected and filled with machinery in Bolton and the neighbourhood. 28. Borough Brewster Sessions: twelve
applications for new spirit licences refused. Adoption of a petition by the magistrates that beerhouses might be placed under
the more immediate control of the justices. 29. County Brewster Sessions : nine new spirit licences granted. 31. The Rev.
Robert Gray Mason, a pioneer of the temperance movement, died, in his 70th year. Mr. Mason resided at Bolton with the Rev.
E. F. Quant, secretary to the League. He was the author of numerous works, principally on temperance, and poems. He was
interred at the Bolton Cemetery, September 4. September 4. Accident at the new mill of Mr. A. L. Briggs, in Parrot Street: three
men injured, one dying on the following day. 14. Henry Farrington, aged 25, a collier, executed at Kirkdale Gaol for the murder
of his wife, Mary Farrington, at Bedford Leigh, on the 1st June, 15. Fire at the steam saw-mills of Mr. Robert Sharrocks, in
Hulton Street; damage, from £200 to £300. 20. Mr. John Rigby, biscuit-manufacturer and confectioner, Bolton, killed by a
falling tree whilst on a pleasure tour near Killarney; verdict of “manslaughter” returned against John Callaghan, the man who
cut down the tree. Inquiry by F. W. Gibbs, esq., C.B., and H. M. Hozier, esq., into the boundaries of the borough of Bolton.
The out-townships strongly opposed any extension. The corporation did not recommend any particular Scheme, though (said the
town-clerk) they were agreed that an extension of the boundaries was desirable. 22. Opening of the new Independent Methodist
Chapel at Lee Lane, Horwich. 26. Boiler-explosion at the Anderton Hall Colliery, Blackrod, belonging to Messrs. Dewhurst,
Hoyle, and Smethurst; damage estimated at £1000. Address by Thomas Hughes, esq., M.P., in the Co-operative Hall, on
“Co-operation.” 28. Mr. J. A. Turner, of Pendlebury House, and late M.P. for Manchester, died in London, in the 71st year of
his age. Deceased was the son of Mr. John Turner of Mayfield ; he was born in Bolton, and was educated at its Grammar-
School. October 5. Inauguration of Sunnyside Institute, Daubhill, erected by Messrs. Tootal, Broadhurst, Lee, and Co., for the
benefit of their workpeople, at a cost of £3000; presentation of an address to Mr. Lee. Explosion at Horrocks Fold stone delph,
belonging to Mr. William Charnley : Thomas Isherwood, aged 30, killed, and two others injured. 9. The police of the borough
supplied by Government with Colt's revolvers, consequent upon the Fenian movement. , 11. Cotton-mill of Messrs. John Haslam
and Co., Chorley Old Road, burnt down: several persons injured, and damage done to the amount of £30,000. 12. Corner-stone
of a new Wesleyan School at Daubhill laid by T. W. Heaton, esq. 15. Operative cotton-spinners agreed to accept reduction of
five per cent in their wages. Lecture in the Co-operative Hall by Thomas Thomasson, esq., on “Our National Armaments, their
cost and consequences.” 16. Cost of the Sweetloves Reservoir up to this date, £20,035:17: 7. Resignation of Mr. James Harris,
superintendent of police. Mr. Thomas Beech appointed chief constable of the borough, at a salary of £180 per annum. , 16 to 21.
Grand bazaar at the Congregational Schoolroom, Church Street, Farnworth, to liquidate a debt of £700 upon the school-hall :
total receipts, £1080. 20. Sermons in aid of the Infirmary and Dispensary preached in most of the churches and chapels in the
town, upwards of £200 being collected ; afterwards sermons for a like object were preached in other places of worship, when
collections were made which augmented the sum to £385 : 12s. 23. Lock-out in the cotton trade averted by the self-acter minders
submitting to a reduction of five per cent. 24. Gas-house adjoining the Victoria Cotton Mills, Chapel Town, owned by Mr. Thomas
Howarth, destroyed by fire : damage about £300. 26. General reduction of the wages of the moulders, mechanics, millwrights,
etc., in the borough. Adoption of half-holiday movement by the boot and shoe makers of the town. Mr. John Fawcett, professor
of music, Haworth Street, died, aged 77 years. He published two books of anthems, composed several popular anniversary pieces,
and was for many years leader of choirs at several chapels. Mr. Fawcett wrote upwards of 2000 pieces of music, some of which are
of high merit. His remains were interred at the Bolton Cemetery, October 31. 28. Visit of William Murphy and James Houston,
of the Protestant Evangelical Mission and Electoral Union, to Bolton : an attempt to obtain possession of the Baths Assembly
Room, for the delivery of lectures, was resisted, and there was considerable excitement in the town. 29. Death of William
Saunders, esq., of Manchester, deputy judge of the Bolton County Court. 30. Ordination of the Rev. Edward Walker at the
Congregational Church, Albert Road, Farnworth. Grant by the town-council of £350 towards the alteration and enlargement of
the Bolton Certified Industrial School. November 4, Mr. Edward Pilkington Bolden, of the Springfield Paper-works, and councillor
of East Ward, killed whilst superintending some of his machinery; deceased was only twenty-nine years of age. 14. The Pollution
of Rivers Commissioners, Robert Rawlinson, esq., C.B., J. T. Harrison, esq., C.E., and Professor J. T. Way, visited Bolton for
the purpose of inspecting the Croal and its tributaries. Accident at the stone delph of Mr. Charles Hopwood, at Harwood : the
foreman killed, and two others injured. Resolution passed by the Reform Registration Association to organise ward associations
for parliamentary and municipal purposes. 22. Munificent donation of £500 by Thomas Thomasson, esq. (in addition to a previous
donation of £100), towards the new Mechanics' Institution. 23. Fenian excitement; 1022 special constables sworn in at Bolton ;
the mills of the borough watched day and night, and the barracks in Fletcher Street guarded by 100 armed members of the 27th
Lancashire Rifle Volunteers. 27. Half-day Holiday Association formed by the tradesmen of Bolton. 28. Fire at the mill of
Messrs. Topp and Hindley, Farnworth ; two men injured, and damage done amounting to £5000. 29. The Rev. David Hewitt,
M.A., of Lytham, and for twenty-six years incumbent of Horwich, died at Wrexham. 30. The Rev. Joseph Dyson, pastor of the
Congregational Church, Market Street, Farnworth, from 1813 to 1855, expired at his residence, Chapel House, Farnworth, in the
87th year of his age. December 1. Severe frost; an old man frozen to death at Westhoughton. 7. Fire at the cotton-mill of Mr.
Henry Richardson, in Spa Lane : damage about £800. Fall of earth on the new branch line of railway at Horwich : several men
buried, one being so severely injured that death resulted a few hours afterwards; another dying on the 24th December.
Catherine Dootson, aged 69, of Norfolk Street, died from exposure to cold on Blackburn Road. 12. An anti-tobacco society formed
in Bolton. 14. Early-closing movement amongst the drapers of the borough. Cotton trade rather stagnant. 17. Presentation to
Mr. James Harris, by the Bolton police force, “as a token of respect on his retirement from the office of chief constable, after a
period of twenty-eight years' service.” Fall of St. Paul's Church, Astley Bridge, whilst undergoing enlargement: William
572 (Iſiſe £istory of £ancashire.
\
Carruthers, aged 57, foreman joiner, killed, and two other men seriously injured. 21. Opening of a new Wesleyan School, Slater
Field. Trade generally dull.
LITTLE BOLTON.—The history of this township is interwoven in the general history of Bolton. It
stands immediately to the north of Great Bolton, on the opposite bank of the small river Croal, which, to a
common observer, Scarcely forms a line of separation, so nearly are the two towns connected. A portion of
the township is separated from the rest by the intervention of the township of Sharples, and in an isolated
part, on a Woody bank above the Tonge, stands the old brick-and-plaster mansion called Little Bolton Hall,
which is supposed to occupy the site of the ancient manor house. In 1600 it was the seat of Richard Bolton,
esq., and now belongs to Stephen Blair, esq., who has restored it. -
LITTLE LEVER.—The extensive barony of Manchester comprehended Little Lever, and probably Darcy
Lever, the adjoining township, from two to three miles south-east of Bolton. Albert Gredle, styled Juvenis,
gave to Alexander Fitz Umoch two bovates of land in Parva Lofre for half-a-mark and twelve-pence, or one of
the smaller breed of hawks called a misus (eyas); and in the reign of King John his heirs held that land."
The township of Little Lever has contributed largely to the worthies of Lancashire.
THOMAS LEVER, B.D., Master of St. John's College, Cambridge, and chaplain to king Edward VI., was the second son of
John Lever, of Little Lever, near Bolton, esq., and born about the year 1520. After having received the early part of his education
at home, he was entered a student of St. John's College, where he took his degrees in Arts, was admitted Bachelor of Divinity,
and chosen Fellow of his college. He was ordained both deacon and priest by Ridley, bishop of London, in 1550, and became
a most eloquent and popular preacher, and was elected master of St. John's College on the 10th of December 1551. On the
accession of Queen Mary in 1553 he resigned his preferment, left England, and fled to Frankfort, where he resided with the other
exiles for religion until he was appointed chief pastor of the Protestant congregations at Aron and Zurich, in Switzerland. After
the queen's death he returned home, and was collated by Dr. Pilkington, bishop of Durham, to a prebend in Durham Cathedral,
and afterwards, on the 28th of January 1562, to the mastership of Sherburne Hospital, a piece of preferment of both honour and
profit, founded by Hugh Percy, “the joly Busshoppe of Duresme” and earl of Northumberland, in 1180. He fell sick on his
journey northwards from London, and dying at Ware, in July 1577, his body was brought to Sherburne and interred within the
altar rails in the chapel there. Over his remains is this inscription—“Thomas Lever, Preacher to King Edward the Sixte. He
died in July 1577.” Under the mastership of Mr. Lever, St. John's College flourished greatly, and in it the Reformation advanced
So rapidly that on the re-establishment of the popish religion, after the death of Edward VI., he and twenty-four of the fellows
resigned their preferments. During his residence in Germany and Switzerland he had deeply imbibed the opinions of Calvin, and
Was So great a favourer of those tenets as to be considered one of the chiefs of the party opposed to the English Church establish-
ment. . The indiscreet conduct of several of them soon made the whole obnoxious to government, and uniformity being strictly
pressed, Lever, among others, was convened before the archbishop of York, and deprived of his ecclesiastical preferments. Many
of the cooler churchmen, however, thought him hardly dealt with, as he was a moderate man, and not forward in opposition to the
received opinions. - +.
On his collation to Sherburne he found there “great disorders and little obedience, its members favourers of the old superstition
and too negligent of the worship of God according to the prescription of the reformed religion; and that the former masters of the
Hospital had made unreasonable leases and grants, by reason whereof the House was like to go utterly to decay.” Not being
armed with powers to amend the existing evils, he applied for redress to the bishop of Durham, who, either from fear that the
party attached to the ancient religion was too strong in the northern parts, or from some dislike to Lever himself, “did but coldly
proceed in the correcting or bettering of these things.” He next addressed his complaint to Grindall, archbishop of York, who
regommended the matter to the notice of the lord-treasurer. Nothing effectual being done, Mr. Lever, whose active and indefatigable
Spirit does not seem to have been easily daunted or repressed, now memorialised the president and council of the north, and got
the archbishop again earnestly to write to the treasurer, telling him that a restraining statute was the only means of saving the
Hospital from ruin. The successive exertions of Lever, added to the glaring necessity of the case, probably produced the “Act for
the Incorporation of the Hospital of Christ in the town of Sherburne, in the Bishopric of Durham,” of the 27th of Elizabeth, to
the regulations of which the house is still subject, and by which it is governed at this day.
Mr. Baker, in his M.S. Collections, gives him a very high character. “In the days of Elizabeth,” says he, “when others
Were striving for preferment, no man was more vehement or more galling in his sermons against the waste of church revenues and
other prevailing corruptions of the Court; and his conduct on these occasions induced Bishop Ridley to rank him even with
Latimer and Knox.” He was a man of much natural probity, and blunt native honesty, without guile and artifice; who never
made suit to any patron, or for any preferment. No one can read his sermons without imagining he has something before him of
Latimer or Luther; and though they are bold and daring and full of rebuke, yet it was his preaching that got him his advance-
ment. His rebuking of the courtiers made them afraid of him, and procured him reverence from the king. He was one of the
best masters of his college, as well as one of the best men the college ever bred. He wrote the following works —
Three sermons printed in the year 1573 —The first preached in the Shrowds, upon Rom. xiii, verses 1 to 7 ; the second before King
Edward, upon John vi. verses 5 to 14; the third at Paul's Cross, upon I Cor. iv. verse 1 ; and in 1575 he composed and published
a book entitled, “The right way from Danger of Sin and Vengeance in this wicked World unto Godly Wealth and Salvation in Christ.”
Little Lever Hall, a wood-and-plaster building, destroyed about a century ago, was the seat of the
Levers in 1567; and the late John Andrews, of Rivington, esq., possessed by marriage the estate of the
local family in this township. Lever House, or Lomax Fold, is the seat of Peter Lomax, esq. The family
of Heywood was long resident in this township; and Oliver Heywood, the celebrated Nonconformist divine,
born here in March 1629, was of that family.
OLIVER HEYWOOD, B.A., curate of Coley Chapel, in the parish of Halifax, a Nonconformist divine, and author, was
the second son of Mr. Richard Heywood of Little Lever. He was by his parents designed for the ministry from his birth, and was
also himself inclined that way; and having been well educated under the best teachers, was admitted in 1647 a pensioner of
Trinity College, Cambridge, and placed, by the advice of Dr. Hill, the master, under the tuition of Mr. Akhurst, then reckoned
ºminent for his learning and piety. He pursued his studies industriously, and took his degree of Bachelor of Arts; but, his
father not being in circumstances to support the charges of his residence at the university any longer, he was called home. He
* Testa de Nevill, fol. 404,
#umbret of Šalforn—33dſtom parish. 573
lived in retirement a short time, but, at length, by the solicitation and advice of the neighbouring ministers, became a preacher;
and having done duty occasionally about the country, was invited to Coley Chapel, in the parish of Halifax, soon after which he
passed the usual examinations in divinity and other exercises, and was ordained at Bury church by the second classis of Lanca-
shire, on the 4th of August 1652. Mr. Oliver Heywood was not without his difficulties. He had several disputes with his congre-
gation : some were displeased with him because he would not admit all comers promiscuously to the Sacrament; others because he
would not thank God for certain advantages over the Scots. Once he was carried by some of Colonel Lilburne's soldiers before
Cornet Denham, who told him he was one of the Cheshire rebels; but on the mediation of some of his friends he was dismissed.
In 1659, he was in various ways molested, but kept his station, though often urged to remove. His annual income from Coley
did not exceed £36; but he held a lecture every Thursday, for several years, at the house of one Hopkins, at the Stubbing, in
Sowerby, for which he received a consideration. He had also a small paternal estate in Lancashire, exclusive of what he might
get from Mr. Angier, whose daughter he married in 1655. He had a presentation to the vicarage of Preston, in Lancashire, from
Sir Richard Houghton, worth at that time a hundred pounds per annum, but, on some account, declined the acceptance. After
the restoration of Charles II. he was prosecuted in the Consistory Court at York, for not reading the Common Prayer, a whole year
before the Act of Uniformity was published at Halifax, on the 29th June 1662. On this he forebore to preach at Coley, but took
no steps towards getting rid of his suspension, because he well knew that the Act of Uniformity would silence him in August
following, and to which he did not choose to conform. Before it took place, however, he ventured to take leave of his flock by two
or three days’ preaching. On the 2d of November an excommunication was published against him ; on which he went to York ;
but found, from the Chancellor, that nothing could be done for him, unless he would take the oath “de parendo juri, et stando
mandatis, Ecclesiae,” which his conscience would not permit him to do. In 1664, came out the writ “de excommunicato capiendo,”
but he was not taken, though he preached in his own house, and even officiated in public churches, where there was a vacancy,
with the leave of the churchwardens. On the passing of the Five Mile Act, on the 31st of October 1665, he left his family, and
went into Lancashire and Cheshire, returning home but seldom. After the edge of that act was a little worn off, he took more
liberty, and preached often publicly in the chapels of Idle, Bramhope, Morely, Pudsey, Bramley, Farnley, and Hunslet, all in the
West Riding of Yorkshire, and the three last-mentioned places in the borough of Leeds. In 1669, preaching occasionally in a private
house in Leeds, he was carried before the mayor, who sent him to prison, but released him next day, at the intercession of some
friends. In July the same year he preached at Coley chapel, in the absence of Mr. Hoole, the minister, at the desire of several of
the people, for which a warrant was issued to distrain on ten pounds worth of his goods; but, Dr. Calamy says, nobody would buy
them. In 1672, Charles, who secretly favoured popery, granted indulgences to the Nonconformists; and at last he was restored,
by the king's declaration, on the 15th of March, to ministerial employment in his own house, by licence, as appears from a private
register kept by himself. After this, he preached at Alverthrope, Lassel Hall, Sowerby, Warley, and other places, on the week
days. On the calling in of these licences, in March 1675, he met with fresh troubles; for, on 15th of August 1680, he was again
cited before the Consistory Court at York, with his wife and others, for not attending the sacrament at the parish church of
Halifax; and for contempt in not appearing, they were all excommunicated, the sentences being read on the 24th of October ; but
keeping private, the storm blew over. After this he was indicted at the Wakefield sessions, for a riotous assembly in his own
house, and fined fifty pounds; for non-payment of which, and for not finding sureties for his good behaviour in forbearing to
preach, he was committed to York Castle, where he had both an expensive and troublesome confinement, and from which he was
not freed without great difficulty. During this confinement, Charles II. died, and was succeeded by his brother James, an acknow-
ledged Catholic, who at first pursued the measures Charles had adopted against the Nonconformists, but afterwards changed his
plans, and very unexpectedly issued a declaration for liberty of conscience, on the 4th of April 1687. In 1688, Mr. Heywood built
a chapel at Northowram, in the parish of Halifax, and preached his first sermon on Sunday, July 8th, that year. On the accession
of William III. the religious rights of the dissenters were confirmed by law ; and Mr. Heywood, though now nearly sixty years of
age, having a more favourable opportunity for public service than in any period of his life, laboured incessantly, until prevented
by indisposition from continuing his duties. In 1691 he was confined to his house by sickness eight weeks, and it was generally
thought that he would not recover. After the death of Mr. Newcome of Manchester, he was invited to accept the charge of his
congregation, but declined changing his residence. Soon after this, he became, so infirm that he travelled abroad but seldom,
preached only in his own chapel, and spent much time in his study. He continued his duties till the Sunday but one before he
died, and expired on the 4th day of May 1702, in the 73d year of his age. -
Mr. Heywood appears to have been a very determined and laborious minister; not easily prevented from following the bent of
his inclination ; not intimidated from doing his duty by the numerous Acts passed to restrain the Nonconformists within what
were thought the necessary prescribed bounds. In a journal in the possession of Mrs. Stansfield of Sowerby, he says, “I have now
been above fifty years labouring in the Lord's vineyard ; studying, praying, and preaching, at home and abroad; travelling where
Providence hath called, and have arrived well towards two years beyond the age of man; now, at last, I am incapacitated for
travel, not only with age, but a very sore shortness of breathing called the asthma, so that I am confined much to mine own house ;
only I can study, preach in my chapel, and exercise myself in writing books and sermons for those that desire them.” His diary
fell into the hands of Thoresby, the historian of Leeds, whereby it appears that in one year “ he preached one hundred and five
times, besides Sundays; kept fifty days of fasting and prayer, nine of thanksgiving, and travelled fourteen hundred miles in his
Master's service.” In other parts are the following entries:—“This year, 1677, I preached, besides Lord's days, sixty times, kept
forty fasts, eight days of thanksgiving, and travelled eleven hundred and ninety-eight miles. This year, 1678, I preached sixty-
four times on week-days, have kept fifty fast-days, four days of thanksgiving, and travelled one thousand and thirty-four miles.
This year, 1679, I preached seventy-seven times on week-days, kept fifty-two fast-days, seven days of thanksgiving, and travelled
thirteen hundred and eighty-six miles.” Under June 2d, 1678, is this remarkable passage, “Lord's day, preached too long, being
under a mistake a whole hour ; I was employed six hours ; not weary.” In the same diary are also these entries:– “Jan. 18, 1677.
Began to write my Brother's life.—Jan. 22. Writ my Father Angier's life,” etc. etc. Of this life of Mr. Angier there was a copy
in Thoresby's possession, with notes by Mr. Newcome of Manchester. His labours were not confined to the pulpit ; he was very
diligent in visiting the sick, conversing with persons in trouble of mind, and catechising children. He wrote a considerable number
of Small treatises which were never printed, and published the following works —
“Heart Treasure,” 1667. “Closet Prayer,” 1671. “The sure Mercies of David, a Sermon on Isaiah ly, 3,” Lond. 1672, 8vo.
“Life in God's Favour;” the substance of sundry sermons on Psalm xxx. 5, Lond. 1679, 8vo. “Israel’s Lamentation,” 1681. “Mr.
Angier's Life,” 1685. “Baptismal Bonds,” 1687. “Meetness for Heaven,” 1690. “The Family. Altar erected to the honour of the
Eternal God, or an Essay to promote the Worship of God in private houses,” Lond. 1693, 8vo. “Best Entail,” 1693. “A New
Creature,” 1693. “Job's Appeal; a Funeral Sermon on the Death of Mr. John Denton,” 1695. “Heavenly Converse,” 1697. “The
Genuine Assembly,” 1699. “The Two Worlds, the Present and Future ; a Funeral Sermon on Cor. i. 15, 19,” 1701, 8vo. “A Treatise
on Christ's Intercession,” 1701. He also printed and prefaced several other works, and communicated to Dr. Calamy Memoirs of those
who suffered for Nonconformity in the counties of Lancaster and York.
The populous chapelry and village of Little Lever, situated at the confluence of the Croal with the
Irwell, produces coal in abundance, and the Bolton Canal, branching off to Manchester in one direction and
to Bury in another, affords unusual facilities to manufacturing and mining enterprise. The episcopal
574 (Iſiſt #istory of £ancashirt.
chapel of St. Matthew's, a brick edifice, was built in 1790, and the Wesleyan Methodist chapel in 1820. On
the 10th July 1835, 17 coal-miners (7 men and 10 boys) were drowned in a coal-pit in Little Lever, by an
accidental bursting of the river Irwell into the mine.
DARCY LEVER possesses similar local advantages, and is hence a thriving district. The ancient hall
bearing the name of the township, and having four wood and plaster gables inscribed * the initials of the
l
names of Robert and Elizabeth Lever, is one of the original seats of this widely extended family, of whom
was Robert Lever, the founder of the Grammar-School of Bolton. The estate passed from the local family
to the Rev. M. Williams. The hall is the property of James Edward Bradshaw of Marnhall, Co. Dorset, esq.
Darcy Lever New Hall, built by the Bradshaws in the last century, is a handsome brick mansion, encircled
by extensive pleasure-grounds, and was occupied by the late William Bolling, esq., one of the members for
the borough of Bolton till his death in 1848. The aqueduct over the Tonge, conveying the Bolton Canal
to Manchester, is in this township. :
TONGE-WITH-HAULGH.—In the reign of King John, Gilbert de Tonge held one bovate of land of the
king, in Tonge, for four shillings;" and that this place was in the parish of Bolton seems to be proved by a
record in Birch's MS. Feodarium, in which, after mentioning Blackrode, it is said that John, Son of Elias
Tonge, holds one bovate of land there by the service of four shillings per annum for sake-fee. The family of
Tonge probably gave name to the hamlet of Tong in Prestwich, which, in 43 Elizabeth (1601), was possessed
by Christopher Tonge.” This township is united with Haulgh under the designation of Tonge-with-Haulgh ;
these places extend in two angles between the rivers Croal, Tonge, and Bradshaw, and come to the confines
of Great and Little Bolton, the latter being now incorporated with the borough. The principal landed
proprietor here is the earl of Bradford. Haulgh Hall is a plain erection, the property of the earl, inherited
from his ancestors the Bridgemans, who obtained it by purchase temp. James I. In 1821 a barrow was
opened here within a hundred yards of the canal, and was found to contain two kist-vaens,” in which were an
urn of red earth, a number of mouldered and mouldering bones, with a bronze spear-head and armour, which
were very appropriately presented to Lady Bradford. Westiges of a barrow also exist in Breightmet, and a
mass of human bones was dug up in Tonge in 1750, probably relics of the civil wars when Prince Rupert
and the earl of Derby carried Bolton by storm. At the northern extremity of Tonge, and in the township,
stands “Hall-i’-th’-Wood,” once the seat of the Norrises, but now the property of Le Gendre Starkie, esq., a
principal proprietor in this township. This house, even in its decay, has been rendered somewhat famous in
modern times as the residence of Samuel Crompton, the inventor of that potent cotton-spinning machine called
the MULE. The house is of stone, with mullion windows, and a stately porch inscribed ſº, and the interior
is adorned with finely polished and carved oak stairs. An inscription over the mantelpiece is dated 1591.
In a window of the farm-house or grange, at Lower Wood in this township, the arms of Norris are
emblazoned. Tonge Fold wake, a rustic festival of some note, commencing on the 29th of May and continuing
two or three days, is held here. There are in Tonge-with-Haulgh various bleachworks, collieries, and a large
paper-making establishment.
BREIGHTMET-The manor of Breightmet (Bright Meadow), part of the ample possessions of Henry,
duke of Lancaster, in 35 Edward III. (1361), seems to have been comprehended within the manor of
Manchester; for by an inquisition taken in 47 Edward III. (1373), Sir Robert Holland, knight, was found
seized of the moiety of the manor of Brightmede, the sixth part of the manor of Harwode, and the whole
manor of Dalton, all of the barony of Manchester." In 1 Richard III. (1483) this manor was one of the
forfeited estates of “our Rebell,” Sir Thomas St. Leger,” and by that monarch conferred upon Tord Stanley,
whose good fortune it was to augment the family inheritance by forfeited estates both in the northern and in
the southern parts of the county of Lancaster, and from the unfortunate adherents of both the houses of
Lancaster and York. The ill-fated Sir Thomas St. Leger, though he had married the duchess of Exeter, sister
of King Richard, not only lost his estates by attainder but his life by the hand of the public executioner.
In Birch's MS. Feodarium, under the head Salforth-shire, Nicholas Devias (more correctly written D'Ewyas)
is said to hold the moiety of the hamlet of Brightmede, which is a moiety of the town of Bolton, by his
homage and the service of four shillings per annum for ward of Lancaster Castle, at the term of St. Martin in
winter (November 11), and fifteen pence for sake-fee at the four terms, and for the sixteenth part of one
knight's fee ; and Robert de Holland part of the moiety of the same hamlet, by his homage and service of
four shillings per annum for ward of Lancaster Castle at the term of St. Martin (November 11), and twenty
pence for sake-fee at the four terms. In a subsequent entry the heirs of Sir Robert de Holland and Nicholas
Devias are said to hold of the duke of Lancaster the eighth part of a knight's fee in Brightmede, a hamlet in
the township of Bolton, which their ancestors held of the earl Ferrers and the king. In the Rolls of
1 Testa de Nevill, fol. 405. the monument the appearance of a chest ; in pure Lancashire, Kist,
* Duchy Records, vol. xviii. num. 14. from the Anglo-Saxon. .
* The Cromlech is formed by large stones set on end upon other * Escaet. de an. 47 Edw. III. num. 19.
stones, while the Kist-vaen is closed at the top and sides, giving to * Actus Convictioniset Attinctionis. Rot. Parl, vol. vi. p. 244, et seq.
#umbrel of $alfort—33dſtºm 33arisiſ. 575
Parliament of 2 Edward III. (1328) is a petition from Sir Robert de Holland for a certification from the
exchequer that his lands and tenements were, by default of the sheriff, still in the king's hands, into which
they had been seized in the preceding reign among the estates of the adherents of Thomas, earl of Lancaster,
but ordered to be restored by act of parliament. In answer to this petition, a schedule was ordered to be
prepared, in which were enumerated many estates in Lancashire and other counties, and “a certain tenement
in Broughtmete.” So that, though his other manors had been seized, that of Breightmet appears to have
escaped the general wreck.' Sir Gilbert Southworth, who was living in 37 Edward III. (1363) married the
daughter and heiress of Nicholas D'Ewyas, and thus became possessed of the manor of Samlesbury and this
portion of Breightmet, which was found to be the property of his descendant, Sir Christopher Sotheworth, in
18 Henry VII. (1502-3).” The earl of Derby and Thomas Parker, esq. of Astle, are the chief proprietors here;
the ancestors of the latter long possessed Breightmet Hall, a substantial stone building. Oaken Bottom, in this
township was formerly the residence of the Cromptons, a family of substantial yeomen. Crompton Ford, an
elegant mansion, is now one of the seats of J. Bolling, esq. About eighty years ago twelve Roman urns of
earthenware were found in this township a little below the surface, containing the ashes of the dead, but on
being exposed to the air they mouldered into dust.” These vessels were of cylindrical form, and within the
top of each was a small bone, and one bone only about two inches in length. The Roman road appears at
this day near the eastern boundary of Breightmet, as a broad paved way of irregular surface.
HARWOOD.—The township of Harwood, or Hare-wood, to the north of Breightmet, formed the subject
of an ancient suit at law, wherein Thurstan de Holland, knt., was plaintiff, and Roger le Broune of Ines,
and Margaret his wife, William Hert of Orell, and John del Heth of Kenyan, were deforceors, and the pro-
perty in question was a messuage and lands in “Harewode juxta Bolton o’ the Mores.” Sir Edmund
Trafford, knt., was a proprietor here in 2 Edward VI. (1548), and John Bradshaw held one acre and a half
of land in this place of Sir Edward in socage, by rendering one iron arrow, of the value of three shillings and
fourpence, to be paid yearly.” During the civil wars this is said to have been a military station, and coins of
Elizabeth have been dug up in the township. Lomax Fold has long been the inheritance of the Lomax
family, and is now the seat of R. Lomax, esq., but the principal part of the farms in the township belongs to
Brazenose College, Oxford, being part of the bequest of William Hulme, esq., for exhibitions to certain
public schools in Lancashire. The affix of Fold or Gate to the names of the principal houses, meaning
the enclosure of the homestead, prevails much in this district.
SHARPLES, another member of the ancient barony of Manchester, was possessed by Roger de Mareshey
or Maresay, who conveyed it to Randulph de Blundeville, earl of Chester. Robert (Roger in the pedigrees)
de Samelisbury, and Alexander de Harewode, held a bovate of land in “Chapplis” for three shillings, of
Robert Gredle." The same persons also held the sixth part of a carucate in Harewode, which belonged to
Robert de Holland's knight's fee of Aspul, Turton, and Brockholes, held by him of Robert de Grelley, and
consequently also a part of the barony of Manchester." Sharples does not occur as a manor in the Duchy
Records; but the lord of Sharples, by an ancient tenure, can claim from Smithells a pair of gilt spurs
annually. Subsequently this place gave name to a local family, who occupied the hall, now a plain edifice, with
a centre and two gables. The chief landed proprietors now in this lordship, are the earl of Wilton and L.
Wright, esq., whose relative, Thomas Wright, esq., occupied the mansion called Hill Top. Belmont reservoir,
from whence the town of Bolton is partly supplied with water, is in this township, and, in excavating through
the peat earth, fossil ferns were found, and oak-trees were dug up, at the depth of fifteen feet, perfectly
sound and as black as ebony. There are here two chapels, one of them belonging to the Independents, and
the other to the Wesleyan Methodists; both built in 1821.
BRADSHAW.—This chapelry, on the east bank of the Bradshaw Brook, is admired for its bold and
interesting scenery, in that part of the valley called the “Jumbles.” The family of Bradshaw were seated
here in the sixteenth century. In 1606, Henry Bradshaw became owner of Marple, in Cheshire. His son
Henry, by Dorothy, daughter and coheiress of George Bagshaw of Ridge, married Catherine, daughter and
coheiress of Ralph Winnington of Offerton, by whom he had three sons—William, Henry, and John—the
latter of whom being brought up to the bar, became president of the high court of justice on the trial and
condemnation of King Charles I., and subsequently chancellor of the duchy of Lancashire (not sheriff of
Lancaster, as erroneously stated).” Henry Bradshaw, son of Henry, purchased Bradshaw Hall in 1693, and
proved the will of the president, his uncle, of whom Clarendon says that he was a gentleman of ancient
family in Cheshire and Lancashire, but of a fortune of his own making. Bradshaw Hall, in this township,
* Ros. Parl, vol. ii. n. 56, p. 29. * President Bradshaw was baptized at Stockport, December 10,
* Duchy Records, vol. iii. num. 100. 1602, married Mary, daughter of Thomas Marbury of Marbury,
* Gen. Mag. vol. lxxvii. p. 1097. county of Chester, and died issueless December 16, 1659, thus escap-
* Rot. Ped. Fin. 42 Edw. III. de Com. Lanc. in the Chapter- ing the fate of other members of the High Court of Justice. Presi-
House, Westminster. dent Bradshaw was brother of Henry Bradshaw of Bradshaw, grandson
* Harl. MSS. cod. 2085, p. 486. of Henry Bradshaw, in Derbyshire; not of Bradshaw in the parish
° Testa de Wevill, fol. 404. of Bolton. The President's nephew, Henry Bradshaw, was the first
7 Ibid. of the Derbyshire family who possessed Bradshaw, near Bolton.
576 Çür #igturn of £antasijire.
affords a beautiful specimen of the style of architecture which prevailed in the early part of the seventeenth
century, and the arms of the Bradshaws are still to be seen both in the stained glass of the window, and cut
on stone over the hall-door. By the marriage of Mary, the sole heiress of Henry Bradshaw, esq., with
Nathaniel Isherwood of Bolton, the estates have descended to John Isherwood, esq., of Marple Hall.
Bradshaw Hall is an irregular building, embosomed in trees, and Thomas Hardcastle, esq., is the present
occupier. -
The date of the episcopal chapel here is not ascertained, but it was rebuilt of brick and stone by public
subscription in the way of brief, amounting to £1107: 3s., in 1775. In 1843 it had become “a mean and
dilapidated structure.” It is a district chapelry and perpetual curacy ; patron, the vicar of Bolton ; value
#184 ; 200 sittings. In the chapel-yard are the remains of a rude octagonal font, which had anciently a
crown, and is now bound with a simple fillet. **
TURTON.—This township is situated between the Tonge and the Bradshaw, four miles north of Bolton.
Aspul and Turton, in the time of King John, were held by Roger Fitz-Robert (de Holland), and the former
was a member of the fee of the Honor of Tuttebury in the time of Henry, “the good duke of Lancaster.”
The Roman road passes through this township, and presents the appearance already described in the township
of Breightmet. From the illustrious house of Lancaster, the manor of Turton passed into the knightly family
of the Orrells, by whom it was held till purchased by Humphrey Chetham, esq., for £3000, from whom it
passed successively to Humphrey, Samuel, and Edward Chetham, and by Anne, one of the coheiresses of
Edward Chetham, it was conveyed by marriage to — Bland, esq., whose sole heiress married Mordecai
Greene, esq., whose grand-daughters, the issue of his son, James Greene, esq., now inherit it. The demesne
land of Turton Tower consists of 365 acres. Turton Tower is a square building of stone, originally constructed
for defence, with two wood-and-plaster gables in front. It was almost entirely rebuilt of stone, by William,
son and heir of John Orrell, esq., in 1596, some of the older parts retaining the half-timbered and plaster
construction. The edifice has long been rendered irregular by additional buildings; but the tower, properly
so called, consists of four storeys, with an embattled parapet, in which there is some ancient armour. The
drawing-room is panelled in oak, and has a richly-ornamented ceiling. In Camden’s time it was the resi-
dence of the Orrells, whom he dignifies as “illustrious.” . Its present owner is James Kay, esq.
The episcopal chapel of Turton, existing in 1654, was rebuilt in 1779. This chapel contains part of a
library, left by Humphrey Chetham, esq., in 1655. Turton, Entwistle, Edgeworth, Quarlton, and part of
Bradshaw, are in this chapelry, and marriages were formerly celebrated here. There is also an episcopal
chapel at Walmesley in this township, rebuilt in 1771; in Turton there is an Independent chapel, built in
1812, and at Walmesley a Unitarian chapel, formerly Presbyterian, built about 1671. The summit of
Turton Heights, in a field called Chetham's Close, commands one of the most varied and extensive prospects
in the district. An annual fair of considerable antiquity, for horses and cattle, is held in this township on
the 4th and 5th of September. -
QUARLTON is a small township at the foot of the hills, five miles and a half N.N.E. of Bolton. In 20
Edward I. (1292) William de Lee was summoned to show by what authority he claimed to have free warren
at Ravensmales and Lee, Quelton, and Charnock, on which he produced his charter, granted to his father,
Henry de Lee, by the king, on the 10th of September, in the 12th year of Edward's reign (1284); and thus
established his claim.” At present, Lawrence Wright of Mottram St. Andrew is the chief landowner here.
EDGEWORTH and ENTWISLE, on the north-eastern extremity of the hundred of Salford, near the junction
of the mountainous region of the Forest of Rossendale and the manor of Tottington, were anciently common
land belonging to the Blackburns and the Entwisles. As early as the reign of King John, the father of
William de Radclive held twelve bovates of land in Edgeworth and Heton, two of which he gave in marriage
with his daughter to Robert de Hennetwisel. The family of Entwisle was long settled here in the township
of this name, and Camden, as we have seen, speaks of Entwisle Hall, in his time, as a “neat and elegant
mansion,” the residence of “noble proprietors of its own name.” . -
Sir BERTINE ENT WISELL, knight, viscount, and baron of Bricqbec, a distinguished warrior in the reigns of Henry V.
and Henry VI, born at Entwisle Hall in this hamlet at the beginning of the fifteenth century, was of this family. Sir Bertine
was amongst the heroes of Agincourt, and contributed by his skill and valour to the conquest of France, led on by that royal and
accomplished general Henry V. From that king also he received, as a reward for his services, extensive estates in Normandy, and
was created viscount and baron of Bricqbec, the chief town of a canton in the district of Walognes, near Cherbourg, in the
department of the Channel. On his return to England, on the loss of Normandy by the duke of Somerset, he became, after the
death of Henry V., a faithful follower of the fortunes of his son Henry VI. ; and was engaged in his side in the battle of St.
Albans, the first blow struck in the fatal quarrel between the houses of York and Lancaster in 1455, and there unfortunately
perished, the king's army being overthrown. In this battle eight hundred men are reported to have fallen on the side of the
Lancastrians; among whom, besides the duke of Somerset, were the earls of Stafford and Northumberland, John Lord Clifford,
Sir Robert Vere, Sir William Chamberlaine, Sir Richard Fortescue, Sir Ralph Ferrers, Sir Bertine Entwisell, and many esquires
and gentlemen. On the side of the Yorkists about six hundred were supposed to have been killed, but among them no persons of
distinction. The bodies of the nobles were consigned to honourable interment in the Abbey Church, in the chapel of the Virgin ;
* A good view of Turton Tower is given in Hall's Baronial Halls of England, 1844.
* Placita de Quo Warranto apud Lanc. 20 Edw. I. Rot, 1.
%
#umbrel of $alfort—33dſtºm 33arigij, 577
and some other persons of rank were buried in St. Peter's Church, among whom was the body of Sir Bertine. Over his remains
was placed his effigy in brass, with the following inscription —“Here lyeth Sir Bertin Entwysell, knight, who was borne in
Lancashire, and was Wiscount and Baron of Brickbecke, in Normandy, A baylife of Constantine ; who died the xxviii May in the
year of our Lord God MCCCCLV, on whose soule God have mercy. Amen.” This brass remained entire till the last repairs of
the church, when the stone on which it was laid was broken to pieces by the workmen, and the upper part lost. The remaining
half, after much inquiry, was discovered by Mr. Carter in October 1797. There is a drawing of the monument in the British
Museum, done in colours, with the shields, labels, ornaments, etc., so far back as 1611, when the whole was in a perfect state.
Sir Bertine Entwisell married Lucy, fifth daughter of Sir John Ashton of Ashton, knight, relict of Sir Richard Byron, knt.,
by whom he left a daughter, Lucy, from whom the family of Braden, of the county of Northampton, are descended. He occurs
as an attesting witness to a charter relating to Church, near Accrington, Vetus, in the time of Henry VI. ; and Dame Lucy
Entwisell was living, as his widow, in 1467, as appears by an inquisition taken at Derby in the 7th of Edward IV. (1467), when she
was found to possess the dowry settled upon her by her second husband.
Though the chief branch of this family ended in Sir Bertine, yet the male line continued another generation, for in 14 Edward
IV. (1474), when two lords, nine knights, fifty-eight esquires, and twenty, gentlemen, bound themselves by indenture to serve
William, Lord Hastings, against all men whatever, their allegiance to the king and his successor excepted, Thomas Entwisell,
esq., was one; who presented to the church of Braybroke, in the county of Northampton, on the 21st September 1482, and was
high-sheriff of the counties of Leicester and Warwick, Richard III. 1483. And although Weever, in his Funeral Monuments,
says he found in the collections of Lawrence Dalton, Norroy, a Wilfred Entwisell, “who solde the lande that was left him, and
served as a launce at Musselborrow field in the second year of the reigne of King Edwarde the 6th (1548)—and after that he served
the Guyes in defence of Meth ; after that he was one of the four captains of the Fort of Newhaven, where being infected with the
plague and shipped for England, was landed at Portsmouth, and being uncertaine of any house, died under a hedge in September
1549;” there was, besides him, a George Entwisel of Entwisle Hall, who died S.p. and was succeeded in his estate by his brother
and heir, William Entwisel, who married Alice, daughter and heir of Mr. Bradshaw of Bradshaw, and had Edmund Entwisle of
|Foxholes, esq., from whom was descended, in the female line, John Entwisle, esq., high-Sheriff of the county of Lancaster in 1824,
the father of the first John Entwisle of Foxholes, esq.
LONGWORTH, as its name imports, is an extended narrow tract of land between the prongs of two
branches of the Tonge, on the edge of dreary moors. The phenomenon, as it may almost be called, in the
manufacturing parishes of Lancashire, of a considerable decrease of population, occurs in Longworth, the
numbers having been reduced from 238, the amount in 1821, to 179, the number in 1831. In 1851, the
population was only 152; in 1861, 154. William Ford Hulton, esq., is the sole proprietor of the soil in this
township. Tongworth Hall was in 1600 the residence of George Longworth, gentleman. It is now a farm-
house, without any remarkable features, and has long been the property of Mr. Hulton.
ANLEZARGH, anciently a member of the barony of Manchester, was transferred by Roger de Poictou to
Albert de Gresley, whose grandson gave to Robert, son of Henry de Latham, two bovates of land in Anle-
Zargh for three shillings. Sir Robert Fitz-Henry, lord of Latham, by a deed without date, gave to the priory
of Burscough, in free, pure, and perpetual alms, a part of his lands in Anleshargh, called Swynleyhurst, with
the liberties and easements of the vill of Anleshargh, and also a place of pasture in Anleshargh, for the
support of themselves and their cattle ; and wood to build houses. This grant was confirmed by charter of
Edward II., in the seventeenth year of his reign (1373-4). By the grant of successive sovereigns, and by
the donations of the pious, the Knights Hospitallers of St. John of Jerusalem exercised a jurisdiction and
claimed exclusive privileges in Analeshargh, Hasphull, Edgewich [Edgeworth], and Blakerode, in the parish
of Bolton ; in Chaderton, in the parish of Prestwich ; in the parish of Middleton; and in Botterwrth and
Wordehull, in the parish of Rochdale, and in other parts of the county. These privileges were exercised in
a way that appears to have infringed the king's prerogative and the liberties of the subject, and in 20 Edward
I. (1292) the prior of that hospital was summoned to answer to the king, by what authority he claimed, as
the head of his order, to have weyf, infangenethef and gallows, correction of broken assize of bread and ale,
the forfeited chattels of fugitives and felons; and for the Hospitallers and their vassals exemption from amer-
ciaments, from all mercies and scutage, from geld and other aids to the king, from hidage, carucage,
Danegeldage, and Scutages; from suits of county and wapentakes, and from wardpenny and hundred-penny.
To this summons he appeared, and answered that he claimed them by charter from Henry III., granted in
the thirty-seventh year of his reign (1252–3), which he produced, and which witnessed that the same king
granted, and by his charter confirmed, to God and St. Mary, and to St. John the Baptist, and to the brethren
of St. John of Jerusalem, all the reasonable donations of lands, men, and alms, in the said places, conferred
upon them either by the king's predecessors or others in past times, or by the king himself; and the king
also commands that the said brethren and their vassals may have and hold all their possessions and alms,
with all liberties and free customs and acquittances in wood and plain, in meadows and pastures, in waters,
in mills, in ways, in footpaths, and in lakes, in all places within their borough and without ; with sok and
sak, thol and theam, infangethef and outfangenethef, and hamsok and grithbrech, and blodwite and flethwit,
and ferdwyt, and hengwyt and leyrwyt, “et flemmenesfrith et murdro et latrocinio et forestale et ordel et
oreste,” etc. To a certain degree the claims of the military monks were admitted by the inquest held to
determine the matter in dispute, but they abridged their number and limited their extent.” At present the
soil and minerals of this township are in the Standish family of Duxbury Hall. The lead-mines found here
are partially worked, but with no great success. The carbonate of barytes, a mineral substance supposed to
be peculiar to this township, but since found in the lead-mines of Yorkshire and Shropshire, was first
* Cartular. de Burscogh, fo. 56 a. In the Duchy Office. * Placłia de Quo Warranto, apud. Lanc. 20 Edw. T. Rot. 4 d.
4 E
578 * , (Iſiſe #istorm of 3Lancašijire.
discovered in the mines of Anlezargh. Large quantities of stone are dug from the quarries, and used with
advantage both for building and for repairing the public roads. The rigours of the climate in these inhos-
pitable regions, combined with the inducements of higher wages for labour, and fuller employment for
children, obtained in the neighbouring towns, gradually draw away the population, and here again the
number of the people diminished in the decennial period between the years 1821 and 1831, from 215 to
168 souls. - -
RIVINGTON was doubtless a member of the barony of Manchester, though in the ancient survey of this
barony the name of the lord of Rivington and Lostock does not occur. According to Dr. Kuerden, confirmed
by the Testa de Nevill, Albert Gredley Juvenis gave to Thomas de Perpoint three carucates of land in
Revinton and Lostock for the third part of the fee of one knight, and “his heirs,” says that document, “now
hold that land.” The Testa de Nevill, in enumerating the fees of Robert Gredle, changes the name of Pier-
point to Peton. Among the tenants of this barony, enumerated in Birch's MS. Feodarium, are the heirs of
John, son of Henry de Halton [Hulton], who held of the barony of Manchester the third part of one knight's
fee in Romworth with Lostock, which Robert Parpoynte formerly held of the fee ; thus showing that the
Pierpoints held the three adjoining townships of Rumworth, Lostock, and Rivington, the two former of
which passed to the Hultons, and Rivington was enumerated, in the reign of Edward III., among the fees of
Roger de Montebegon, baron of Hornby, and then held of him by the Pilkingtons in thanage. In the Testa
de Nevill William Fitz William is mentioned as holding twelve bovates of land in thanage for twenty-four
shillings, in Ruhwinton." -
A branch of the Pilkingtons afterwards became principal proprietors in Rivington, and few families in
the county of Lancaster are more closely interwoven in its history than the members of this knightly house.
The battle of Bosworth Field proved almost as fatal to the fortunes of the parent stock of the Pilkington
family as to the power of the royal tyrant their master. The property in Rivington, not belonging to Sir
Thomas Pilkington, but to the younger branch of the family, escaped the general wreck. Fuller, speaking
of this family, says:–
“The Pilkingtons were gentlemen of repute in this shire before the Conquest ; and the chief of them, then sought for, after
espousing the cause of Harold, was fain to disguise himself as a mower; in allusion to which circumstance, the man with a scythe
was adopted as their crest. From Richard, second son of Sir Roger Pilkington, lord of Pilkington, descended Richard Pilkington,
lord of the manor of Rivington. He married Alice, daughter of Lawrence Ashawe, of the Hall on the Hill, in Heath Charnock,
by whom he had issue seven sons and five daughters. The said Richard Pilkington built Rivington church, and James, his
third son, was master of St. John's College, Cambridge, and one of the six divines for correcting the Book of Common Prayer, for
which, and other services, he was in 1560 created bishop of Durham.” - -
Bishop JAMES PILKINGTON, B.D., the first Protestant prelate of the see of Durham, was the third son of Richard Pilkington,
of Rivington Hall, and was born in the year 1518. He was educated at St. John's College, Cambridge, where he is said to have
taken his degree of doctor of divinity, and was one of the revivers of Greek literature in the University. He was presented by
Edward VI., in December 1550, to the vicarage of Kendal, in Westmorland; but, during the persecutions in the reign of Queen
Mary, was a Voluntary exile at Geneva, Basel, and Zurich, where he read lectures, and associated with and imbibed the Calvinistical
opinions of the Reformers respecting the Church of England. On the accession of Elizabeth he returned home, and on the 20th of
July 1559, was elected master of St. John's College, and soon after nominated to the see of Durham. He had the royal assent on
the 20th of February 1560, was consecrated on the 2d of March, received part of the temporalities on the 25th, and was enthroned
in the cathedral on the 10th of April. Elizabeth, on his nomination, following the example of her father, excepted out of the
restitution several very valuable manors and estates, which the bishop had the courage to contest, and after long and repeated
Solicitations the good fortune to recover, charged, however, with an annuity to the crown of £1020. Dr. Pilkington visited his
cathedral in 1564, and complained heavily to the archbishop of Canterbury of the state of matters generally in the north ; he
censured the negligence of the bishop of Chester in not visiting his diocese, and in having compounded with the archbishop of York
for the Omission ; and points out the absence of the Bishop of Man, and the gross indifference of the inferior clergy.
“It is to be lamented,” says he, “to see and hear how negligently they say any service, and how seldom. I have heard of a commis-
sion for ecclesiastical matters, directed to my lord of York; but because I knew not the truth of it I meddled not. Your cures, all,
except Rochdale, be as far out of order as the worst in all the country. The old vicar of Blackburn resigned for a pension, and now liveth
With Sir John Biron. Whalley hath as ill a vicar as the worst. And there is one come hither that hath been deprived or changed his
name, and now teacheth School; of evil to make them worse. If your grace's officers lust, they might amend many things. I speak this
for the amendment of the country, and that your grace's parishes might be better spoken of and ordered. If your grace would, either by
yourself or by my lord of York, amend these things, it were very easy. One little examination or commandment to the contrary would take
away all these and more. The bishop of Man liveth here at ease, and as merry as Pope Joan. The bishop of Chester hath compounded
with my lord of York for his visitation, and gathereth up the money by his servants, but never a word spoken of any visitation or refor-
mation. And that, he saith, he doth of friendship, because he will not trouble the country, nor put them to charge in calling them
together. I beseech you, be not weary of well-doing, but with authority and counsel help to amend that is amiss. Thus, after commen-
dations, I am bold boldly to write, wishing good to my country, and furtherance to God’s glory.”
On the 8th of June 1565 he preached a memorable sermon, at St. Paul's Cross, on the burning of St. Paul’s Cathedral,
exhorting the people “to take the dreadful devastation of the church to be a warning of a greater plague to follow, if amendment
of life were not had in all estates.” In this sermon he touched upon certain abuses of the church, and the conversion of the
building to purposes inconsistent with a place set apart for the worship of the Deity. These observations were reflected upon by
the Papists, in a paper handed about the city, making the chief causes of the destruction to be, “that the old fathers and the old
ways were left, together with blaspheming God in lying sermons preached there, polluting the temple with schismatical service,
and destroying and pulling down altars set up by blessed men, and where the sacrifice of the mass was ministered.” In answer to
this paper the bishop published a tract in vindication of his sermon, in which occurs the following curious remark on the abuses
of St. Paul’s :—
1 Fol. 405.
#umbren of Šalford–Bolton parish. 579
“That no place had been more abused than Paul's had been, nor more against the receiving of Christ's Gospel; wherefore it was
more marvel, that God spared it so long, than that he overthrew it now. That from the top of the steeple down within the ground, no
place had been free. From the top of the spire, at coronations or other solemn triumphs, some for vain-glory had used to throw them-
selves down by a rope, and so killed themselves, vainly to please other men's eyes. At the battlements of the steeple, sundry times were
used their popish anthems, to call upon their gods with torch and taper in the evenings. In the top of One of the pinnacles was Lollard's
tower, where many an innocent soul had been by them cruelly tormented and murdered. In the middest alley was their long censer,
reaching from the roof to the ground; as though the Holy Ghost came down in their censing, in likeness of a dove. In the Arches, men
commonly complained of wrong and delayed judgment in ecclesiastical causes ; and divers have been condemned there by Annas and
Caiaphas for Christ's cause. Their images being on every wall, pillar, and door, with their pilgrimages and worshipping of them ; passing
over their massings and many altars, and the rest of their popish service. The South alley was for usury and popery ; the north for
serving; and the horse fair in the midst for all kinds of bargains, meetings, brawlings, murders, and conspiracies. The front for ordinary
payments of money, as well known to all men as the beggar knows his dish.”
He visited his cathedral again in 1567, and assisted in the removal of the popish ornaments and figures, according to the
instructions of the queen's commissioners. During the occupation of the see of Durham by Bishop Pilkington, the northern
provinces of England were shaken by several religious storms, which threatened the subversion of the Reformation, and the complete
annihilation of the civil government. The ancient faith, “which lay like lees at the bottom of men's hearts, and, if the vessel
were ever so little stirred, soon came to the top,” was at this crisis particularly acted upon by the interest inspired by the
misfortunes of the Queen of Scots, and the fears for the safety of the duke of Norfolk, who had been sent to the Tower for aspiring
to a marriage with that unfortunate lady. Among the Roman Catholic peers who favoured the duke's pretensions, the earls of
Northumberland and Westmorland were summoned to court; but instead of obeying the royal mandate, they raised the standard
of rebellion in the north, but afterwards dispersed their army without striking a blow. The vast confiscations which followed
produced a greater change in the landed property within the bishopric than had ever happened since the Conquest. The princely
house of Neville, with all its adherents, was entirely ruined, and the immense estates of the castles of Raby and Brancepeth, with
the dependent manors, ought to have vested in the bishopric, according to the full right to forfeitures for treason and felony within
the palatinate. The queen, however, seized all, and obtained, on pretence of covering the expenses incurred in the suppression of
the rebellion, an act of parliament, that “the convictions, outlawries, and attainders of Charles earl of Westmorland, and fifty-
seven others, attainted of high-treason, for open rebellion in the north parts,” should be confirmed, and “that her majesty, her
heirs and successors, should have, for that time, all the lands and goods, which any of the said persons, attainted within the
'bishopric of Durham, had, against the bishop and his successors, though he claimeth jura regalia, and challengeth all the said
forfeitures in right of his church.”
The bishop during these disturbances, being a Protestant and married prelate, and therefore obnoxious to the insurgents, had
fled with all his family into the south, and, after an unsuccessful suit to the crown for the forfeitures of war, petitioned to retire
for the winter, with the hope, perhaps, and the desire, of being removed to some other diocese. In the next and last year of his
life, he required permission to pay over his tenths to the treasurer of Berwick, from fear of robbery; and at the same time refused
to surrender the fishery of Norham to the crown. He died at Auckland on the 23d of January 1575, in the fifty-fifth of his age,
and was buried there, but afterwards removed to Durham cathedral, and interred in the choir.”
Bishop Pilkington founded and endowed the free school of Queen Elizabeth in Rovington, alias at “Rivington,” with lands
and rents situated in the county of Durham ; and the trustees have lately obtained an act to exchange them for other property in
the more immediate neighbourhood of the school. From the troublesome state of the times, we cannot wonder that no public
works in this province are attributed to Bishop Pilkington. The hands of the ecclesiastics were busied in defacing the ornaments
of the churches, and, under colour of removing objects of Superstition, spoiling and pillaging many decorations, which contributed
to the solemnity and dignity of the holy places. He was, however, far from indolent in his ecclesiastical duties, and, allowing for
some tincture of puritanical severity, seems to have merited the character which Strype and other contemporaries have given of
the “good old bishop of Durham, a grave and truly reverend man, of great learning and piety, and Such frugality of life as well
became a modest Christian prelate.” ~
He wrote “Commentaries on Ecclesiastes, the Epistle of St. Peter, and of St. Paul to the Galatians;” “A Defence of the English
Service;” “Commentaries upon Haggeus (Haggai),” London, 1560, 8vo; “The Burning of St. Paul's Church in London, in the year
of our Lord 1561, and the 4th day of June, by lightning, at three of the clock at afternoon, which continued terrible and helpless unto
night,” London, 1563, 12mo ; “Commentary upon Haggeus and Abdias,” London, 1562, 8vo; “Certain Godly Exercises, Meditations,
and Prayers, &c.,” London, 8vo; “An Exposition of Nehemiah,” published by Fox, the martyrologist.
The early part of the pedigrees of the Pilkingtons is involved in obscurity, and irreconcilable with documents of which the
dates are known or ascertainable. Leonard Pilkington, lord of Pilkington, lived in 10 Henry I. (1109-10). From Leonard
descended Alexander, mentioned in the Testa de Nevill about 15 John (1213-14). Another Alexander was living about 46 Henry
III. (1262) and 7 Edward I. (1279), and had issue Sir Roger, who was living in 24 Edward I. (1296), and had issue Sir Roger, lord
of Pylkyngton, and a second son Richard, to whom he gave Rivington. The last named Sir Roger and Sir Adam de Hoghton were
knights of the shire in 39 Edward III. (1365).8 J -
By a deed without date, Cecilia, daughter of William de Roynton [? Rovynton], granted lands in Roynton. In 10 Edward
III. (1336) Alexander, son of Cecilia, granted the manor of Revyngton to Robert de Pilkyngton. Birch's MS. Feodarium of the
duchy has Roger de Pilkington holding six parts of the township of Rovington by the service of 8s. 10d. at the four terms. This
Roger was probably of the younger house. Again, Roger de Pilkington holds three parts of a knight's fee in Pilkington of the
barony of Manchester, which Roger de Pilkington formerly held. This Roger, then, is the knight of the shire in 39 Edward III.
(1365), and may be the son of Roger who “formerly held” this land. -
So far these extracts and the pedigree in the Harleian collection coincide. In the Lancashire and Yorkshire pedigrees there is
no mention of Alexander, the son of Cecilia, or of any of these Rogers, one of whom is thus shown to have belonged to the
Rivington, and another to the Pilkington, or elder branch. What degree of affinity these persons bore to each other is uncertain,
and the pedigree cannot be satisfactorily taken up before Sir Thomas Pilkington, descended from Leonard Pilkington, and brother
of Sir Edmund, who died without issue.
On the death of Richard Pilkington, the father of the bishop, in 1551, the manor of Rivington descended to George Pilkington,
his son, whose eldest son, Robert, left his estates in trust, by will dated 16th November 1605, to Mr. Serjeant Hutton, Thomas
Tildesley, esq., and Mrs. Catherine Pilkington, by whom Rivington was sold to Robert Lever of Darcy Lever, esq., whose only
daughter, Jane, married John Andrews, esq., whose descendant, John Andrews, esq., is now lord of Rivington (1866).
Leland, in his ſtinerary, thus describes Rivington in the reign of Henry VIII.-
1 Surtee's History of Durham, lxxviii. for ever.” And, by the terms of the letters patent, the school is
* This school is for the “bringing up, teaching, and instructing open to “all our faithful and liege people, whosoever they be.”
children and youth in grammar and other good learning, to continue 3 Harl, MSS. cod. 4630, fo. 449. 4 Vol. v. p. 83.
580 QThe ºigturn of £ancašijire.
“Riding a Mile and more beyond Morle I saw on the right hond a Place nere by of Mr. Aderton, and so a ii. Miles off to
Lidiate Mosse, in the right side whereof my Gide said that ther were Rootes of
* “Stonding on a Water caullid Anderton- Fyrre wood. Abowt this Mosse I began to sei a Hill or Hilles on the right Hond
ford, and Anderton, a Gentilman having a that stil continuid on the same hand as a mighty long bank Ontil I came to Lan-
Place caullid Andreton, dwellithe thereby, castre. One part of this Hille wher I saw it first is caullid Faierlokke. But com-
and Mr. Rivinions Howse by Riventon. munely the People thereabout caullith hit Rivenpike. One told me that aboute
Anderton Water cummith into Duggles.” Lidiate Mosse under the Hille is a village caullid Riven or * Riventon, and there-
about I markid my self that there was a Coppe in the Hille as a Bakke stond-
ding up above the Residue of the Hille. -
In the reign of Queen Elizabeth, when England was threatened by invasion from the Spanish Armada,
the beacon upon Rivington Pike, standing at an elevation of 1545 feet from the level of the sea, was kept
for several months in continual readiness, to apprise the inhabitants of the approach of the invaders, and to
rouse into action their most vigorous efforts. A note of taxation, issued by her majesty's privy council, for
watching “Ryven Pike and carrying Armour,” is preserved in the Harleian Collection in the British Museum,
and by a precept from Ferdinando Lord Strange, the divisions of Manchester, Bolton, and Middleton were
required to contribute their respective quotas towards the cost. On the alarm of the French invasion during
the Napoleon dynasty, the beacon upon Rivington Pike was replaced ; but happily, in the nineteenth as in the
sixteenth century, it was never required to spread the light of its ominous illumination.
In the last century, Shaw Place, an ancient mansion in Heath Charnock, in the parish of Standish, was
occupied by the Willoughbys, of whom was Henry Willoughby, who succeeded to the title of Lord Willoughby
de Parham. In 1765, Lord Hugh Willoughby resided here. In 1779, George, the last lord, a descendant of
the Willoughby's de Eresby, died, on which the title became extinct.
In Rivington (which has an area of 2630 statute acres), as in the other moorish lordships to the north-
west of Bolton, the tide of population is subsiding, having dwindled from 412 in 1851 to 369 in 1861, while
in the parent township it is swelling with more than corresponding rapidity. The emigrant Flemings, undis-
mayed by the severity of the climate and the sterility of the soil, took up their residence on the south-eastern
side of the county of Lancaster; and there is still preserved in this place a pair of the wooden shoes of a
Flemish weaver, on the model of which the modern clogs of the district extending from the Roch to the Ribble
seem to have been constructed.
The episcopal chapel here was, according to Dr. Fuller, built by Richard Pilkington, the father of the
bishop ; and having fallen into decay, it was rebuilt in 1666: formerly the privilege of performing the mar-
riage ceremony was enjoyed in this chapelry, as well by the inhabitants of Anlezargh and Sharples as by
those of Rivington, but now the parties in this part of the parish are required to travel a distance of eight
miles to their parish church, in order to contract the solemn obligation ; a journey that may not be without
its use, if it tends to promote due deliberation. The dissenters here date their origin from the passing of one
of the acts which identifies the name of Lord Clarendon with St. Bartholomew ; and when another of his
lordship's favourite legislative measures, called the Conventicle Act, was in force, the people assembled in
Rivington to celebrate public worship in the open air at a place called Winter Hill, which, from its amphi-
theatrical form, exalted the congregation to hear the solemn truths thundered from the stone pulpit, which
stood in its centre. About forty years after the passing of those memorable acts, the Presbyterian chapel at
Rivington was built in 1703, when toleration began to extend itself to all churches, not excepting even the
Church of Rome. By damming up the valleys in this township a series of large reservoirs has been formed,
which constitute the chief source of the supply of water to Liverpool and its environs.
BLACKROD.—In the first year of the reign of King John, Hugh le Norris obtained a charter for a carucate
of land in Blackroade," and at a somewhat later period Hugh de Blakerode held one carucate of land in this
place of the fee of William Peverel, whose daughter and heiress, Margaret, had contracted marriage with
William Ferrers, earl of Derby, in 12 Henry II. (1166). Sir William Bradshaw having married Mabel, the
daughter and heiress of Sir Hugh Norres, lord of Staunton, Rainhill, and Blackrod, entered into these pos-
sessions about 8 Edward II. (1314-15). Three years after this, in an inquisition ad quod damnum, taken of
his manor of Blakerode, we find Sir William styled a felon;' and in 11 Edward III. (1337), after his death,
|Mabel and William, the son of John de Bradshaw, became parties in a final agreement for the manor of
Blakerod, with John, the son of William de Bradeshagh." In the reign of Edward III. Roger de Bradshaw
is said to hold Blackrode of the Earl Ferrers by service of a carucate of land of 20s, per annum,’ which is
precisely the same tenure as that by which Hugh le Norreis held the manor. In 14 Henry VII. (1498-9)
this manor is enumerated amongst the possessions of Sir James Harrington, and it passed on his attainder
into the hands of the Stanleys." In 10 Elizabeth (1568) it is again found in possession of Sir William Norreys's
family on his death.” Subsequently to this time, the manor passed into the possession of the Lindsays, and
Lord Balcarres is the present lord of Blackrod, though Sir Robert Holt Leigh, bart., is the principal landowner
in the township.
* Rot. Chart. 1 John, Par. 1, mem. 5. 4 Rot. Ped, Fin. temp. Edw. III. 8 Birch’s MS.
2 Testa de Wevill, fol. 405. 9 Duchy Records, vol. iii. n. 40.
* Withus de Bradshag, Felo. Num, 4. 7 Ibid. 10 Eliz., n. 22.
alumiº of Salton–Bolton parish. 581
* The episcopal chapel, dedicated to St. Catherine, was erected in the fifteenth century by Thomas
Houghton and Edward Norris, esquires, joint lords of the manor, and rebuilt in 1766, at a cost of £1025,
raised by a brief granted for that purpose in the second year of the reign of George III. (1762). The spirit
of improvement, so general throughout this populous township, has reclaimed and enclosed the extensive
common called Red Moss, notwithstanding its peaty soil; and so nearly is the rivulet which takes its course
through this land balanced, that a very slight pressure upon the enclosure will divert its course either to the
east or to the west, to Bolton or to Wigan. The coal-mines within the township afford to the inhabitants a
cheap and unfailing supply of fuel, both for the manufactures and for domestic purposes.
As the township of Little Lever forms the South-eastern boundary of the parish of Bolton, so the town-
ship of LOSTOCK extends to its south-western limit. This small township, as we have seen, formed part of
the barony of Manchester, and was held by Richard de Hulton. Subsequently it passed into the family of
Anderton, the head of which family, Sir Francis, having been involved in the rebellion of 1745, his estates
went to the Blundells of Ince. Charles Blundell, of Ince Blundell, esq., is at present the principal landed
proprietor. Lostock Hall, a venerable half-timbered edifice of the age of Queen Elizabeth (the date 1563
was over the door), at once the pride and the Ornament of the township, was, the greater part of it, taken
down between 1816 and 1824. The royal arms, over the highest long window of the house, are dated 1590.
It is the property of Mr. Blundell.
Bolton is a parish full of interest, ancient and modern. The compass of a volume would scarcely suffice
to do justice to the history of this populous and flourishing manufacturing town. The soil of the parish
is generally moory, and requires generous tillage ; in the north it is loam on a red rocky subsoil; in
the south it is a stiff loam. In the more populous districts land lets as high as £5 or £6 the statute acre,
and even higher in some favoured situations, while in Longworth and Edgeworth, and some of the more remote
districts, the average rent does not exceed from 30s, to £2. Near the town the land is increasing in value,
but in the northern townships it is, like the population, stationary in some places, and in others declining.
About one-fourth of the land of the whole parish is arable, and three-fourths in pasture. In the northern
parts the plough is seldom seen, except to prepare for rather slender crops of oats. Like most mining districts,
there is a deplorable want of timber trees in this parish, though some of the valleys are well wooded and
romantic. The “mosses,” in the popular nomenclature, are of considerable extent in the townships of Anle-
Zargh, Rivington, Blackrod, Sharples, and Entwisle ; many of them are partially cultivated, but in the whole
parish there are still nearly 2000 acres of waste land. There are about thirty coal-mines in the parish, chiefly
in Blackrod, Little Lever, and Darcy Lever, and numerous stone-quarries producing excellent flags, and, in some
places, slates. The lead-mines of Anlezargh and Rivington have already been mentioned, as well as the car-
bonate of barytes found in Anlezargh. Mineral-springs of a cold chalybeate kind formerly existed in “Spaw
Lane,” Bolton, and at Rivington; but they have either disappeared, or have lost their reputation ; and the
only spaw water in the parish that now attracts public notice is a vaporous Sulphur-spring at Arley Hall, in the
township of Blackrod, near the convergence of the three hundreds of Salford, West Derby, and Leyland,
resembling the burning spring of Wigan, and supposed to issue from cavities in the coal-mines. The climate
of this parish is found to be favourable to health ; and even on the borders of the high moors, where the
rigour of winter is felt by strangers with great severity, striking cases of longevity are by no means unusual.
582 The pistory of Lancashire.
ECCLES PARISH.
CCLES gives name to no township, but the village forms the eastern centre of the five
townships of
Area in Acres. Popººn IIl
Barton 10,530 14,216
Pendleton 1,720 20,900
Pendlebury 930 3,548
Clifton ſº e 820 2,140
Worsley . . . . 6,240 11,875
The length of the parish, from Pendlebury, at its eastern extremity, to Glazebrook, the south-west boundary,
is ten miles; and its breadth, from Ellenbrook, at the north-west, to the confluence of the Mersey and Irwell,
at the south-west boundary, is five miles, comprising in the whole parish 20,240 statute acres, with a popula-
tion in 1861 of 52,679.
Although a parish of no high pretensions, this is amongst the most interesting divisions of the county of
Lancaster, whether considered as to its surface or its minerals, its improvements in inland navigation or in agri-
culture. The parish of Eccles is traversed by two Roman roads—the one passing from the station of Blackrod
to Manchester, and the other from the Manchester to the Warrington Roman station, through Barton."
Adam de Eccles de Oldham occurs temp. William II., but the Traffords were settled here at a period anterior to the Norman
Conquest ; and ancient documents, in possession of the family, show that their property has descended to the present representative,
not only by an uninterrupted line of male heirs, but without alienation, during the mutations in national faith and the violence of
civil commotions. Henry, the great-grandson of Ranulphus de Trafford, who resided at Trafford in the reigns of Canute and Edward
the Confessor, received lands in Guildested from Helias de Pendlebury; in Chorlton, from Gospatricke de Chorlton ; and in Stretford
from Hamo, the third baron of that name, of Dunham Massie ; and from his daughter Margery, then widow of Roger Pain of Ecborn
[Ashbourn], he had the whole lordship of Stretford.” Haman [Hamo held one carucate of land by the service of one judge or justicier.”
A Hugh de Stretford, whose name does not appear in the pedigrees, held of Hamo four bovates, and Henry de Stretforde held half
that quantity by the service of four shillings.” The same Henry is also said to hold two carucates by the render of five shillings for
all services. Richard, the son of Henry, is styled in the pedigree the first lord of Stretford; and Henry, his eldest son, to whom,
on the division of his estates, he had given Trafford and Stretford, obtained in 12 Edward I. (1284) a charter of free warren in those
manors, as appears from a record contained in a MS. collection of claims and pleas tried before Hugh Cressingham and others on
the octaves of the Holy Trinity, 20 Edward I. (June 24, 1291), in the Chapter-House, Westminster, in which Henry de Trafford
claims to have free warren in his territory of Trafford and Stretford, by charter of Henry, then king;" and among the rolls of pleas
of Quo Warranto & Rageman," of the same place and date, is a record of the pleadings had upon this claim. The name of the parish
of Eccles is evidently contracted from the Latin ecclesia, a church, and among the Inquisitores Wapnº de Salford, in the Grand
Inquisition taken 13 John, is Withus de Ecclesijs."
BARTON-UPON-TRWELL-Barton was a member of the barony of Manchester, as were also Monton,
Irwelham, and probably the greater part of the parish, held by peculiar services, which are described in the
survey or extent of that great lordship in 15 Edward II. (1322).” The subinfeudation is thus detailed in the
Testa de Nevill (fol. 397):-" Gilbert de Barton holds a knight's fee and a half in Barton, of the fee of Thomas
Gretley, and he of the earl of Ferrers, and the latter in the chief of the king.” In the same ancient
record this land is described as held in drengage by Gilbert de Newton, together with the lady of Barton.”
The pedigree of the Hulton family states that Richard, son of Jorverth de Hulton, who lived in the reigns of
Richard I. and John, “had a grant of lands in Barton of Edith de Barton, by the consent of Gilbert de Notton
* “This road gave the appellation of Street, or Street-field, to
four meadows that lie in succession along the northern margin of
the road of the Irwell.”—Whitaker's Manchester.
* Ormerod's Cheshire, vol. i. p. 399. The Trafford “Old Vellum
Pedigree,” in a note upon Richard, the first lord of Stretford, says,
“By this stile he received much lands from Haimo Massy and
Margery his daughter, the widow of N. Payne of Eckborne—viz.
the whole lordshipp of Stretforde to be houlden of William de
Ferrers, earle of Darby, about the year 1200; from Richard Fitz
Adam de Vrmston also. And from divers others by many several
deeds appeareth.” The difference in these two accounts cannot now
be reconciled. The fate of Roger de Poictou’s possessions has been
generally described ; it may be here added, that Ranulph de Ger-
nouns, earl of Chester, granted Stretford in fee to Hamo, the first
baron of Dunham, and Hamo the third granted it to his daughter.
William de Ferrers, marrying a coheiress of Ranulph de Blundeville,
earl of Chester, became lord paramount.
by Birch, this and other passages relating to the same property and
persons are inserted, with the change of Stretford into Tratforde,
under the title of Fees of Roger de Montebegon, who died 10 Henry
III. (1226.) By this tenure Hamo was to find a person to serve in
his lord’s courts, according to the explanation given by Sir Peter
Leicester, of the judger of a town in Cheshire; but this passage
proves that the service was not peculiar to that county, as Blount
seems to imagine.
* Testa de Wevill, fol. 405.
& Clam. de Quo Warr. etc., fol. 180.
8 Testa de Wevill, fol. 405. In the ancient Feodarium transcribed
9 RAGEMAN.—A statute of justices, assigned by Edward I. and
his council, to hear and determine all complaints of injuries done
throughout the realm, within the five years next before Michaelmas,
in the fourth year of his reign.-Jacob.
7 One hundred and forty years after the foundation of Whalley,
John Eccles, who died 21 Henry VI., was abbot of that monastery.
—Whitaker's Whalley, p. 85.
8 Kuerden's Fol. MS. p. 217. 9 Fol. 404.

Bumrºn of Salforn—Grcles parish. 583
(Co. York), her husband, which Jorverth, father of this Richard, had some time held of her.” A family named
Hulin held half the manor of Barton-juxta-Flixton in 13 Edward III. (1339.) It is probable that the Hulins
were merely tenants under the mesne lord. The Bartons of Holme, and subsequently of Smithells, seem to
have been a branch of Barton, whose male line failed as early as 20 Edward I. (1292.)
John de Booth, in the beginning of Edward II., married Loretta, daughter and heiress of Anne
or Agnes, the daughter and heiress of Sir Gilbert de Barton. The issue of Booth, after producing
two archbishops, failed in the early part of the fifteenth century, soon after the coronation of Henry
VII., and Barton passed from Robert to his brother Sir John Bothe, who fell in the battle of Flodden
Field. The male line of the Bothes of Barton expiring with John Bothe, 9th May, 8 Elizabeth
(1566; another account gives the year 1570), the line of Robert Bothe, second son of John Bothe of
Barton, became the chief branch, from whom was descended George Booth, the second and last earl
of Warrington, who died in 1758, leaving an only daughter, Mary, married to Harry Grey, the fourth
earl of Stamford, and thus Ashton, Dunham, and many other estates, were conveyed to this noble
family. John Booth, of the elder branch, left four daughters his coheiresses, among whom the estates
were divided; Margaret married Sir Edmund Trafford, whose representative is the present lord of the
manor of Barton ; Anne married, about 1578, George Leigh of High Leigh, esq., whose descendant
now possesses Barton Hall; Dorothy married John Molyneux of Sefton ; and Katherine, the fourth
daughter, died unmarried about 25 Elizabeth (1583). The original arms of the Booths were--a
chevron, engrailed, in a canton, a mullet: the crests, a Catherine's wheel, and an Agnus Dei, as
appears from the seal of Thomas del Bothe, the public benefactor, which is affixed to the deed wherein
he gave to Henry, his son, all his lands in Irwell: given at Barton on Saturday before St. George's
day, 43 Edward III. (i.e. April 21, 1369), which deed was in possession of George Booth of Dunham
Massey, Lord Delamer, in 1666.1 Thomas de Barton, on Sunday, September 28, 1404, made a grant of the
Barton arms—ar. 3 boars’ heads, erased and erect, sa,—to John, son of Thomas del Both of Barton.”
In the codex numbered 2063 of the Harleian M.S., is a copy of an old book
of Mr. Roger Dodsworth's, a manuscript of the date of 5 Henry IV. (1403-4),
consisting of deeds and other papers of families in Salford, Irwelham, Barton, and
other places in the parish of Eccles; and those relating to Barton being the most
numerous, it is sometimes called “The Book of Barton.” The manor of WHICKLESWICKE, within Barton-
upon-Irwell, was held by Thomas Massy, father and son, in the reign of Elizabeth.” “Whyceleswyck Hall,”
which existed previous to 1595, has now disappeared, and the exact site of this mansion is not correctly
ascertained. CADISHEAD, or, as it was anciently called, Cadewalesate, and subsequently Cadewalshed, a village
in this township, was anciently held by the service of carpentery, and the name of the tenure, not that of the
estate, designated the local family.” -
The parish church of Eccles, in the archdeaconry and deanery of Manchester, seated on a slight elevation
in the township of Barton, at the entrance to the village of Eccles from the Manchester road, is dedicated to
St. Mary de Eccles. The building is a venerable Gothic structure, forming a favourable specimen of rude
architecture, with a massive tower, gray with age, and consists of a nave, chancel, and side-aisles, the latter
of which were in early times chapels attached to the old families of the parish. The structure is of an
irregular shape, supported by buttresses, and adorned by arched windows. The roof is partially embattled,
and on the north and south sides rise two small circular columns terminating in crocketed ornaments. The
old church-porch, belonging to the Traffords, though re-edified in 1790, was in unison with the antique
character of the other parts of the building. The interior is spacious, light, and lofty. The columns dividing
the nave from the side-aisles are octagonal, and bear escutcheons at their capitals. As the population in-
creased galleries were erected; the west gallery was built in 1717, the north and south galleries in 1770," and
the east gallery, opening to a chamber over the chancel-door, in 1805. The roof is supported by carved
squares of timber, having clusters of flowers at the interstices of the beams. So late as 1805, there were
ancient gates leading into the chancel, but they were then removed. The original church was probably of a
date as early as the Conquest, and the curfew-bell, a relic of that age, continues to be rung nightly. Tradi-
tion, probably from this circumstance, fixes the date of the church in the year 1111. The church underwent
a thorough repair in 1713, when an excellent painting of the royal arms, it may be to mark the loyalty of
the parish in those seditious times, was placed over the entrance to the choir. The registers begin in 1563.
Randle Holme, who visited this church about 1652, in his M.S. Church. Notes, has tricked fotur escutcheons
from the western window, of which the first is Radcliffe of Ordsall, with an inscription to the memory of
“John Ratclyffe of Ordesalle, esq., owner of this chapel, who gave this window in 1574.” In the chancel, on
the south side of the altar, inclosed within rails, is an ancient tomb with whole-length figures, recumbent, of
Richard Brereton of Worsley and his lady (with their infant son in Swaddling-clothes), their heads resting on two
couches, bearing a covered helmet and two cushions; he fully armed, and attired in the costume of his age, and
she dressed in the habit of her time, with large ruffs round her neck and ankles, and an enormous head-dress,
their feet resting on two animals couchant. The figure of the infant is placed upon an ornamented bracket at-
* Ormerod's Cheshire, vol. i. p. 401. 4 Birch’s MS. Feodarium, Tit. Feoda Rogeri de Monte Bogonis.
* Transcript of Roger Dodsworth’s MS. in Harl. Coll. cod. 2063, * Testa de Nevill, fol. 405. See also Birch’s Feodarium.
fol. 174. * The north gallery contained 13 pews, contributing £119 to its
3 Duchy Records, vol. xv. 33 Eliz. n. 31 ; vol. xvii. 40 Eliz. erection ; the south gallery 26 pews, contributing £174.
n. 85. 7 Harl. Coll. cod, 2129, fol. 78.

584 (Iſiſe £istory of 3Lancašijire.
tached to the tomb, on which are engraved nine coats of arms, quartering various families: the coat to the
west side is surmounted with two crests, both upon helmets; the one a dexter arm holding a sword, and the
other a cock; round the border of the tomb is a Latin inscription, of which the following is a translation :-
“Here lie the bodies of Richard Brearton de Tatton and Worksley, esq., and of Dorothy, his wife, daughter of Richard Eggerton de
|Ridley, knight, and Richard, their son, which Richard died 17th December 1598, and the said Dorothy died 4th April 1639. And the
said Richard, their son, who was an infant, died in 1575. And the said Dorothy caused this Monument to be made in 1600.” .
In that part of the church belonging to Barton Hall was an old painting in a plain frame, representing
the arms of the Leighs with thirty-seven quarterings; crest, on a helmet, a lion rampant. Underneath all
this emblazoning was the following inscription —
“Here lyeth ye body of Geo. Legh of Barton, in ye county palatine of Lancaster, esq., son & heire of George Legh Barton, esq., by
Frances his wife, daughter to Tho". Brooke of Horton, esq., younger son of George Leigh of High Leigh, in y” countie palatine of Chester,
esq., & son & heire to his mother Anne, daughter & coheire to John Booth of Barton, esq. The Sayde George married Hannah, a
daughter and coheire to Thos. Whitby, of y" citty of Chester, esq., & relict of Edw. Morquill of Moston, gent., but died without issue y”
21 day of Decembr. A9 1674.” -
In addition to these more ancient memorials, there are several modern monuments, brass plates, and
sculptured stones. In the nave of the church is a brass plate, recording the death of William Dauntesey,
esq., of Agecroft, 1642; in the new western porch a mural tablet records the death of Thomas Butterworth
Bayley of Hope Hall, esq., and Mary Bayley, his widow, in 1818; another the death of John Greaves of
Highfield and Irlam, esq., in 1815; a fourth in memory of James Bradshaw of Crofts Bank, gent, who
bequeathed, July 26, 1803, seven acres one rood and fifteen perches of land, at Holt in Davyhulme, to the
parish fund for educating poor children, and for drink and dinners to the curate and trustees, which bequest
produces £40 per annum. -
Others in the new west porch are to the memory of Christopher Dauntesey, esq., of Agecroft, who died
in 1748, and of Elizabeth his wife (1791); of John Simpson, esq., of Harthill (1802), and Elizabeth his
wife (1812). In the nave are tablets to William Whitaker, esq., of Higher Benteliffe (1843), and John
Gibson Whitaker, esq. (1859); to William Sergeant of Cornbrock Bank, and Elizabeth his wife (both in
1834), and of several children and a grandchild; to Joseph Goodier of Mode Wheel, Pendleton (1854); to
Sarah, wife of George L. Ridehalgh, esq., of Polefield House, Prestwich (1844); to William Lancaster, esq.,
of Pendleton (1843), and Elizabeth his wife (1852); and a marble monument, erected by the teachers and
scholars of the Church Sunday-school, to the memory of the Rev. William Marsden, B.D., of Brazenose
College, Oxford, vicar of Eccles for twenty-four years, who died 15th February 1861, in his 91st year.
By a sort of vestry order of August 27, 1595, the churchwardens were empowered to appoint places in the church for the gentlemen
of the parish and for the vicar, and to place the rest of the parishioners, as well husbandmen and cottagers as others of mean estate
and calling, having reference to their charges and payments to the church. Servants, boys, young women or children, not to
presume into the upper places or pews; if they do, the churchwardens to remove to seats or standing-room in the inferior places of
the church. By an order of 11th December 1595, the higher settles or pews in the church, nearest the choir and the pulpit, were
assigned to the family halls or mansions in the parish, viz. –two pews to Worsley Old Hall (then occupied by Richard Brereton,
esq.); two to the house and manor of Barton ; one to the house of Agecroft ; one to the house of Wardley ; one to that of
Boothes in Worsley ; and one each to the halls or houses of Woolden, Hope, Whittleswick; to George Latham of Irlam ; to the
halls of Kempnall, Clifton, Beaucliffe ; to Otho Holland of Pendleton ; to Monks Hall; to John Barlow's house in Lostock ; and
to the Rev. Thomas Williamson, then vicar of Eccles. A further series of vestry orders is dated 6th July 1598, which assigned to
the wives of Eccles seats high in the church in proportion to the sums paid by their husbands as church-ley, beginning with 11d. or
above ; next 9d. to 11d., 7d. to 9d., 5d. to 7d., 3d. to 5d., 2d. to 3d., and 1d. to 2d. To all householding men paying 1d. to 12d.
church-ley, seats on certain settles below those who pay 12d. apiece. Still lower to those paying a penny ; and lowest seats of
all to old people living upon the benevolence of the parish. Two seats near the pulpit are reserved for strangers, and for aged and
deaf persons. These orders were ratified by the then bishop of Chester. The writer remembers a plan, hung up in the vestry (but
which has long disappeared), which gave a list of 42 pews or seats numbered, and their owners. Of these one seems to have been
assigned to the vicarage, 7 to the vicar and churchwardens, 2 to the churchwardens, 8 to old halls in the parish, 12 to other
residences and gentry, one to the parish, and one to strangers. A few years ago the churchwardens covered both the north and
south galleries with new roofs, and replaced the old cracked flagstones of the floor with new flags, laid upon concrete, and throughout
that portion of the church occupied by pews laid an upper floor of wood. In excavating for the new flooring the workmen discovered
two slabs, one bearing on its upper surface a raised cross, the other an incised cross but no inscription ; these sepulchral slabs were
under the pews long assigned to Lostock Hall and Monks Hall. A third slab, quite plain, was found near ; and a fourth, forming
the lintel of the north-eastern postern-door, when the whitewash was removed, showed another incised cross, and on its left side a
long straight sword. In the years 1862-3 a complete restoration of the interior of the old church was effected, at a cost (including
£800 for stained-glass windows) of more than £6000, the whole of which was defrayed by voluntary contributions within the parish.
What was the vestry at the west end of the church was removed, and a spacious porch substituted, on the walls of which are
placed the mural tablets formerly at the east end of the church, so that this is now one of the principal entrances. A new vestry
was erected on the north side the church, near the chancel. On the south side of the church a new square chapel projects
beyond the line of the church wall. This is the site of the “ancient chapel of St. Catherine,” which, having been wholly
“destroyed by age and neglect,” was restored and rebuilt in 1862. The old east gallery was wholly removed, so as to leave an
open vista from one end of the church to the other; the old organ was removed from the west gallery (and is now in Walkden
Moor church), and a new and much larger one, by Hill and Son, of London, placed on the floor of the nave, on the south, near
St. Catherine's Chapel. The ancestral monument of the Breretons, which stood in the Bridgewater Chapel, where the new organ
now stands, was removed to the east end, and its high palisading replaced by a low rail and standards. The improvements include
in the chancel a handsome screen or reredos, eight low seats of elaborately-carved oak for the choristers, etc., all the pews throughout
being renovated ; a new and large west window now lights the gallery at the end, which is appropriated to Sunday-scholars; and
there are no fewer than seven memorial and other windows in the church of richly-stained glass—commemorating Mrs. Charles Smith
(died 1851), Mr. Armitage (1854), Messrs. H. A. and W. Bennett (1854 and 1861), Thomas Cooke, esq. (1852); and others, presented by
Robert Chadwick, esq. of Prestwich, the Heywood family, and the present vicar, the Rev. J. P. Pitcairn. Encaustic tiles, decorative
#umurth of $alfort—(£ccles 33arish. 585
carving, gilding, and painting, add to the completeness of this restoration; and the old parish church of Eccles is now one of the
best rural churches in the country.
The advowson of the church of Eccles was originally in the gift of the ancient family of Barton, lords of
the manor of Barton-upon-Irwell, which was a manor under the barony of Manchester. It was purchased of
Gilbert de Barton in 1235 by John de Lascy, earl of Lincoln, who in the same year gave it, with its chapels,
to the abbey of Stanlaw in Cheshire. But as early as 1192, Geoffrey de Byron, clerk, had a grant from
Edith de Barton, lady of the manor of Barton, and Robert de Greslet, lord of the manor of Manchester, of a
“mediety,” or half of the church of Eccles, with two closes and two pastures; and these also passed to the
abbey of Stanlaw. The appropriation of the church of Eccles to the abbey by Alexander, bishop of Coventry
and Lichfield, is dated 29th December 1235. The ordination of the vicarage of Eccles is dated 18th April
1277. The monks of Stanlaw removed to Whalley in April 1296, and for nearly two centuries and a half
the abbot and convent of Whalley were the owners of the church of Eccles, till the abbey was dissolved in
1539. After the dissolution the advowson vested in the crown, and is now exercised by the Lord Chancellor
for the time being. In 1291 the church of Eccles was valued (under the Valor of Pope Nicholas IV.) at £20
per annum, in 1706 at nearly £80 per annum, in 1834 at £500 per annum, and in 1867 at £900 per
annum. In the Whalley Coucher-Book the “second title” includes 41 charters, grants, and confirmations of
the church of Eccles, its advowson, lands, etc., all ending in the property being vested in the abbey of
Whalley, and many other titles relate to lands in the parish given to the abbey. Thus, in March 1328,
Edward III. granted a long deed of confirmation to the abbot and convent of Whalley of various grants of
lands, etc., to the house, amongst others of those of Thomas de Greslet of all his land of Monithornes; of the
rent and quit-claim of William, son of William de Eccles, of eight acres of land in Eccles; of John de Lascy's
(earl of Lincoln) grant of the advowson of the church, with its chapels; of John, son of Geoffrey de Barton,
of half the vill or township of Halghton (Little Houghton); of Gilbert de Barton of all the land of
Monithornes, and of half the wood of Westwood; of Richard, son of Geoffrey de Workedlegh (Worsley) of
land in an assart called Grene-ruyding; of Geoffrey de Barton of all his land of Maunton and Swynton, with
two mills and all the wood of Westwood ; and of the grant of Earl Edmund, son of King Henry, of the earl's
fee of Maunton and Swynton, etc. It must suffice to add that the abbey of Whalley had most extensive
possessions in Eccles and the neighbourhood, mostly granted to their predecessors of Stanlaw; and that they
had a grange at Monton, tithe-barns, etc.; Monks Hall, Eccles, being probably erected on the site of another
of their granges."
There were four chantries founded in Eccles Church, three of them by the Booths of Barton, and the
fourth of them by Sir Geoffrey Massey of Worsley, and of Tatton, Co. Chester.
1. The oldest chantry in the church was that of St. Katharine, founded by Thomas del Bothe of Barton, before the year 1368.
It was dedicated by him to “St. Katharine the Virgin and Martyr,” and in his will (dated 1368) he says, “First, I give and
bequeathe my soul to God and the blessed Virgin Mary, and my body to be buried in the Church of Eccles, before the altar of St.
Katharine, Virgin.” He also bequeathed to the two chaplains £6 : 13:4, to be paid upon the altar of St. Katharine, to pray for
the souls of King Edward III., Roger la Warre (baron of Mamecestre), and Thomas de Wyche, parson of Mamecestre, and for the
souls of his father, of Roger de Hulton, and all other benefactors. This is the chapel rebuilt in 1862-3, on the south side of the
church. 2. The second chantry was founded in 1450 by Lawrence Bothe, D.D., youngest child of John Bothe of Barton and
grandson of Thomas del Bothe, the founder of No. 1. In 1457 he was consecrated bishop of Durham, and in 1476 archbishop of
York. [We have followed the authorities in calling Archbishop Lawrence Booth the founder ; but think that the royal license
clearly shows the true founder to have been his half-brother William Bothe, bishop of Lichfield and Coventry.] Henry VI. granted
a license (dated 22d January 1450) to William Bothe [Lawrence's half-brother], bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, Lawrence Bothe,
clerk, John Byron, knt., Richard Bothe, clerk, and Seth Worsley, to found a perpetual chantry of two chaplains in the parish
church of Eccles, for the welfare of the said bishop, of Lawrence Bothe, and of others named while living, and for their souls after
death. And that the chaplains of the chantry of St. Katharine the Virgin in the said church, and their successors, should have
lands, rents, and tenements, of the yearly value of 24 marks [É16] for their support for ever. William Bothe, bishop of Coventry
and Lichfield, vested the lands for this chantry in Sir John Byron, Richard Bothe, and Seth Worsley, and provided that the
bishops of Lichfield should appoint chaplains to the said chantry. These chaplains were not to be absent more than thirty days
a-year, nor to hold any ecclesiastical office out of the parish of Eccles, and that they should daily observe all the hours, according to
the use of Salisbury, and say mass for the dead—viz. Placebo and Dirige, with the Lessons and Commendacionem for the souls of
Ring Henry VI. and Queen Margaret, William the bishop, and for all persons to whom God had made him a debtor, and also to
celebrate the mass De hora on festivals. Westments, books, chalices, and other ornaments were to be kept in the vicarage-house,
and not to be removed, but to be carefully preserved, and to be supplied from time to time at the costs of the chaplains, who were
forbidden to celebrate mass anywhere except in Eccles church. On double festivals the chaplains were always to walk in procession
in the parish of Eccles with other priests, and in canonical hours—viz, matins, mass, and vespers—they shall celebrate in their
surplices, with [musical] note, devoutly and with skill, within the choir of the church. On Thursday in every week, whilst the
founder lives, one of the chaplains shall say Mass of Requiem, with note if he can do it conveniently (otherwise without note), for
the souls of those hereafter named, and for all the faithful departed, viz. –on Sunday after the feast of the Nativity of the Virgin,
for the souls of John and Joanna, my father and mother ; and on the first June, the day of the death of Margery my sister, late
wife of Sir John Byron, knt.; and on the day of the death of Sir Robert Bothe, knt.; on the day of the death of my brother, Roger
Bothe ; on the day of the death of Nicholas, son of Sir John Byron ; and of William, son of Sir Robert Bothe, knt.; and on the
days of the death of the said John Byron, knt.; Richard and Lawrence Bothe, clerks; and Seth Worsley ; and on these days to
say Placebo and Dirige, with Lessons and Commendation and Mass of Requiem, in the chapel of St. Katharine aforesaid. And on
the founder's anniversary day, which is to be solemnly observed in the said chapel, 30s. shall be annually distributed, viz. –to the
1 For much information as to the old grants relating to the Abbey Coucher-Book, and Mr. Harland's Eccles Church Motes, 1864.
church, the advowson, and the lands of Eccles, see the Whalley —H.
4 F
586 t (Iſiſt #igtorg ºf £antagjirt.
vicar of Eccles sixpence, and to each chaplain and to each conduct [hired conductor] present 6d., and to other chaplains
present in honour of the anniversary 4d., and to the four clerks, singing 8d.—viz, to each 2d.-for oblations at the mass,
206., to be distributed generally in Eccles; the residues of the said 30s., together with 20s, more, to be given to the poor of
Eccles—viz. to every poor person a penny ; and on the anniversary of the said John and Joanna Bothe, 10s, to be distributed.
The chaplains to receive equal portions of the endowment, and to conduct themselves religiously, honestly, and peaceably, and
never to use vexatious or opprobrious words, nor to act contumaciously towards each other, otherwise the vicar of Eccles shall fine
the offender 12d. for each offence, which sum shall be disposed of by the vicar and the other chaplain as they may think proper.
A decent board or table shall be provided, to contain the names of the Said William the bishop, and the names and surnames of
John and Joanna his parents; Sir John Byron, Richard del Bothe, Lawrence Bothe, Seth Worsley; Sir Thomas Bothe, knt.; Sir
Robert Bothe, knt.; John and Roger, sons of the Said John Bothe ; Margaret, late wife of the Said Sir John Byron ; Elizabeth, late
wife of Sir Edward Wever, knt.; Katherine, late wife of Sir Thomas Radclyff, knt.; Joan, late wife of Thomas Southworth, esq.; and
Alice, late wife of Robert Clyfton, esq., daughter of the said John Bothe ; also the names of Dulce, wife of Robert Bothe, knt.;
Richard and Nicholas Byron, sons of Sir John Byron ; William, son of Robert Bothe, knt.; Thomas, son of Thomas Bothe, knt.;
Robert Bothe, son of the said Thomas and Robert Langley, esq., and Thomas his son. And the said board shall be placed above
the altar, in the said chapel of St. Katharine, that the chaplains may see it, and may daily pray for those whose names are thereon
inscribed. Many minute rules are added respecting rents, goods, disbursements, and yearly accounts, and provision is made that
£40 more if necessary shall be expended on the chantry, and a general power is vested in the trustees named for executing the
plans and intentions of the founder. This foundation-deed is dated at Clayton, near Manchester, 20th July 1450–(Bothe's Regist.
Lichfield, p. 89, printed in Rev. Canon Raines's Lancashire Chantries, p. 132.)—3. The third Chantry or College, styled “The
College of Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary,” in the church of Eccles, was founded in 1460 by the same William Bothe, D.D.,
when archbishop of York (a fellow of Manchester College in 1425 and 1430), who resigned Lichfield in 1452 on being translated to
York, and died in 1464. King Henry VI., on the 1st December 1460, granted a licence to William Bothe, archbishop of York,
Nicholas Byron, Robert Clayton, Richard Bothe, and Seth Worsley, esq.S., to enable them to found a chantry in the Church of the
Blessed Mary of Eccles, for two chaplains there to celebrate for the good estate of the said founders whilst living, and also for their
souls after death, and to allow them and their successors to take lands, tenements, rents, services, and other possessions, from any
one, by the name of “The Chaplains of the Chantry of Jesus and Blessed Mary the Virgin,” in the parish church of Eccles. The
founders (so they are described) give to three or more of their body the rectory of Bethom and its advowson, in Westmorland, to
hold to the said chaplains and their successors for ever ; to celebrate daily in the said chapel in Eccles, and to say mass before the
arrival of the parishioners; to pray for King Henry VI. and the said archbishop and his co-founders, and for all the faithful; the
chaplains to receive each seven marks yearly [#4 : 13:4]. The patronage is vested in the archbishop during his life, and after his
death in the said Nicholas Byron and other feoffees during their joint lives; and afterwards in Sir Robert Bothe, knt.; and Nicholas,
son of Sir John Byron, knt., and their heirs-male. The Ordinances, services, and statutes of the college are minutely described, and
are nearly similar to those already abstracted from the foundation-deed of the chantry of St. Katharine (No. 2). The archbishop's
anniversary is to be observed with due solemnity for ever, and he gives 30s. annually to be distributed in alms. He also provides
that a house and certain chambers shall be built on a vacant plot near the churchyard of Eccles with his money, and that this
manse shall serve for the residence of the chaplains of St. Katharine and the chaplains of Jesus and the Blessed Virgin Mary, who
shall have a common hall, and shall table [or have their meals] together. Special care is to be taken in selecting chaplains, so that
good men may be appointed ; and if at any time any chaplain be impeached, and convicted by law, of felony or of [any kind of
incontinence] to be proved before the church, his place shall be declared vacant, and another chaplain be appointed. A roll is to be
provided, inscribed with the names of the individuals whose obits are to be kept, and to be suspended above the altar. The obits
are nearly similar to those recorded in No. 2. This foundation-deed is dated at the manor of Scroby, 6th May 1460. –(Reg. Bothe,
Jichfield, pp. 95-104, collated with Reg. Bothe, York, p. 245, and printed in Rev. Canon Raines's Lancashire Chantries, p. 134.)
The archbishop wrote several “special prayers” (Latin) to be used in these services. In his will (Latin) dated 26th August 1664,
is this clause —“I will that my executors erect a house for the chaplains by me ordained in the parish church of Eccles, with
ornaments for the aforesaid chaplains for the celebrating divine Service in the parish church of Eccles. Also I give and bequeath
to the chaplains of the chantry of Jesus in the said, parish church of Eccles, £40.” This chantry, on the north side of the chancel
of the church, has long borne the name of the Trafford Chapel, and is said to belong (as well as the old porch of the church) to the
family of Trafford of Trafford Park in this parish. . 4. This chantry, dedicated to the Holy Trinity, was founded by Sir Geoffrey
Massey, knt.; lord of the manor of Worsley in the parish of Eccles, and of Tatton, Cheshire. He was living in 1475, but
died before August 1498. His granddaughter and heiress married Sir Richard Brereton, and her grandson, Richard Brereton of
Worsley, esq., dying on the 18th of December 1598, settled all his estates upon his wife's kinsman Sir Thomas Egerton, lord
chancellor, from whom they descended to the earls and dukes of Bridgewater—the Worsley estate being now held by their kinsman
the earl of Ellesmere. Thus it will be seen how the chantry of the Holy Trinity came to be called the Bridgewater Chapel, and
how it should receive the monument of Sir Richard Brereton, esq., and his wife and child. By arrangement between the late earl
of Ellesmere and the vicar of Eccles, the earl Surrendered this chapel to the vicar for the church, and the vicar consented to the
new parish of Worsley being carved out of that part of the ancient parish of Eccles. A small aisle on the north side of the chancel
has been called “The Clowes Chantry,” and was claimed by the late Colonel Clowes of Broughton Hall, in right of the messuage called
New Barns Hall; but it seems probable that it is the same as “Mr. Worsley's chapel-place” of Booths, mentioned in some orders
as to the pews in 1695, and ought to be claimed as in right of Booths, or Booths Hall. Only two chantries in Eccles Church (Holy
Trinity and Jesus College, or in modern names, the Bridgewater and the Trafford Chapels) were suppressed in 1548, restored in
1553, and finally extinguished in 1558. The last positive naming of the chantry of St. Katharine was in 1428, and it may have
fallen into decay or ruin before 1548.
In the Lancashire Chantries of the Rev. Canon Raines (vol. 59 of Chetham Society, 1863) are the reports of the Commissioners
of Henry VIII. on two chantries in Eccles Church —TRINITY COLLEGE.-In that of the Holy Trinity they state that Ralph
Artrobus, priest, is incumbent, and celebrates mass and obsequies, etc. ... The plate and vestments then belonging to the chantry
were a chalice of silver, parcel gilt, of 100Z., two vestments, etc., two silk curtains for the altar ends, a mass-book, a cruet, and
one corporas [the cloth placed between the consecrated elements] with the case. As to the lands and rents forming the endowment
of the chantry, they say that Ralph Garret holds a tenement in Wigan, paying yearly 27s. ; James Chernock one, 13s. ; Lawrence
Charnock, a cottage, 2s. 6d. ; T. Page, a cottage, 3s. ; William Mason, a cottage, 3s. ; William Langshaw, a parcel of ground, a
rod, 12d.; Nicholas Standish's wife, a dove-house yard, half-a-rod, 6d. ; altogether in Wigan 51s. yearly. Hugh Cryer's wife, a
tenement in Tatton, 10s. ; Thomas Mitchell, another 5s. ; together 15s. Jenkin Millington, a tenement in Knottesforth [Knuts-
ford] Cheshire, 10s. John Muttresheide [Mottershead], another 10s., and Richard Swynton, certain parcels of ground in the field
there, an acre, 2s. ; together 22s. Sum total of the rental £4 : 8s. No reprises or repayments. JESUS COLLEGE.—The commis-
sioners report that Roger Okill, George Worrall, and Richard Hide, priests, were incumbents, who by the foundation were bound
to celebrate mass daily in that chapel, and to distribute yearly in alms to poor people, 20s, and to keep and maintain the choir at
divine service. To this college is appropriated a mansion with a garden, an orchard, and a croft, and also the patronage of Bethom
[Westmorland] to the maintenance and Supplying of the said incumbents' livings. All these priests are resident, and celebrate,
keep and maintain, and distribute to poor people thereof; which priests, two being fellows [of the College] either receives yearly
for salary £6 : 13:4, and the third, being called the conduct [conductor], hath for his salary £4: 13:4, all which, by the occa-
sion of the large circuit of the said parish, and the vicar thereof not able to minister to all the same, be enforced often and many
#umbret of Šalforn—Grcles 3}arisiſ, 587
times to administer Sacraments to the parishioners of the same parish. As to plate and vestments, the commissioners found one
silver chalice, weighing 12 oz., eight vestments, three copes, and two tunicles. Of “household stuff” three brass pots, three old brass
pans, 13 [lb. weight in pieces of pewter vessels, a brandreth [for placing over the fire] of iron, two broaches [spits] of iron, one
chasen [chased] dish of latten [or brass], one skimmer of latten, one bassen with one ewer masslye [a mixed metal], two keirs [a sort
of washing tub] of wood and three stands of wood. The mansion-house [is] situate in the town of Eccles, with one garden, one
orchard, and one croft adjoining, containing an acre, worth yearly to let, 5s. William Lancaster holds the parsonage of Bethom,
Westmorland, by indenture, for 21 years, from 1st October 25 Henry VIII. (1553) now paying yearly £38. Total of the rental,
£38: 5s. Whereof [reprises] paid to the vicar of Bethom, by composition for a pension going forth of the parsonage there, yearly
£13: 6: 8. Paid to the king, to the hands of the receiver of the lands of the late monastery of St. Mary without the city of York,
for a pension going forth of the said college by year, 40s. Paid to the Archdeacon of York for a pension, etc., 13s. 4d. Paid to
the Vicar of Eccles, for a rent going forth of the mansion-house yearly, 3s. 4d. Total yearly reprises, £16 : 13: 4. And so
remaineth £22 : 1 : 8. -
In the Compotus of brothers John Kyppas and Christopher Thornberg, bursars, or treasurers, of Whalley
Abbey in 1478, the annual receipts for the church of Eccles and the chapel of Deyn are stated at £63: 17:44;
and in a similar document for the year 1521, in the 15th year of John Paslewe, the abbot, the receipts of
Eccles and Deyne are £119 : 10:44.'
“Upon the dissolution of the monastery of Whalley,” says Mr. Rasbotham, “King Henry VIII. became possessed of the
rectories of Eccles and Dean, with the chapels to them belonging, then appropriated, united, and incorporated, together with
tithes, emoluments, and rates. . After having sometime possessed them, he demised them by letters patent to the worshipful John
Penn, by whom, for the remainder of the grant, they were let to Sir Richard Brereton. King Henry afterwards granted this rectory
[of Eccles] with the tithes for twenty-one years to Sir Thomas Holcroft ; and in the reign of Queen Elizabeth they were demised
for thirty-one years to Sir Gilbert Gerrard, both the king and queen making a reservation of the advowson. It appears that the
rectory tithes, etc. (the advowson being reserved as before), were afterwards (7 Jac. 1610) conveyed by the crown to Morris and
Philips, by them to Downes and Moseley, and by them to James Anderton of Lostock, esq., and his heirs for ever.”
y
The Rev. Canon Raines, in a note in the Notitia Cestriensis, states that on the 8th May 1723, Sir Law-
rence Anderton of Lostock, Bart., and his mortgagee, conveyed the rectory to Sir Francis Colstone of St.
Andrew's, Holborn, Middlesex, in fee ; and on the 26th April 1765, Mary Conyn, widow (sole devisee of the
said Francis Colstone), conveyed the same, consisting of all the great and small, predial, personal, mixed, and
all other tithes, to Richard Edensor of Congleton, Cheshire, gentleman, and John Cooke of Salford, gentleman,
for the sum of £5000, subject to an annual sum of £16 : 13:4 to the vicar of Eccles, and to a very ancient
payment for the finding and providing of wine for the holy Sacrament at the parish church of Eccles at
Easter. The share of Mr. Edensor passed by his will (dated 3d October 1767) to his son, and was held in 1813
by his representative Sir John Edensor Heathcote, Bart., and is now the property of R. E. Heathcote, esq. of
Longton Hall, Staffordshire. Mr. Cooke dying intestate, his portion of the rectory devolved to his son,
James Cooke, esq., who by will (dated the 14th May 1810), devised it to his children, and it was vested in
his daughter, Miss Susannah Dorothea Cooke, at her death in 1848. To the above account it may be added
that R. E. Heathcote, esq., is since dead, and his share has descended to his son J. E. Heathcote, esq. The
Miss Susanna Dorothea Cooke of Pendleton, therein mentioned, who died in 1848, devised her share of the
rectory to her cousin Susanna, wife of Frederick Philips, esq. of Manchester. The yearly stipend of £16: 13:4,
payable by the impropriate rectors to the vicar of Eccles for the time being, was formerly paid out of the
tithes; but at present, the dividends arising from a sum invested in consols, in the names of the present
impropriate rectors, and a small tithe rent-charge, constitute the annual income out of which the stipend is
paid. The deeds and writings relating to the rectory are in the custody of Messrs. Beever and Darwell,
solicitors, Manchester, the solicitors to the rectors impropriate. The surplus beyond the yearly £16: 13: 4
accumulates for the repairs of the chancel, which was put into good repair a few years ago.
Connected with the tithes of Eccles there is a singular tradition to the effect that in the reign of Henry
VIII, or in that of his successor (Edward VI.), these tithes became the subject of a bet on a cock-fight, and
were won from Brandon, duke of Suffolk, by Sir Anderton of Ince (more properly of Lydiate) in this
county. According to this tradition the tithes were granted to the duke by his royal master, Henry VIII.
Sometime subsequently a cock-fight took place in Westminster, when Sir — Anderton is said to have
produced the first duck-wing cock that was ever fought at a main, with the vaunting challenge—
“There is a jewel of England
For a hundred in hand,
And a hundred in land,
I’ll fight him against any cock in England l’
The duke of Suffolk, on finding that Anderton was able to make good his bet, produced another cock,
and bet the tithes of Eccles parish as his share of the wager ; Anderton won the battle, and became pos-
sessed of the tithes, by whom, continues the story, they were afterwards sold to Sir John Heathcote of
Longton, in Co. Stafford. So much currency has this story obtained, that duck-winged cocks are called
1 Whitaker's Whalley, p. 88, Edit. 1800. In little more than forty 1478. 1521.
years, a considerable increase took place in the tithes of Maunton T)e Mawnton #11 13 8 P. Maunton . £16 18 0
and Swinton – De Swynton. 0 4 7 P. Swynton . 4 7 0
2 Rasbotham's MS. Collect. vol. i. p. 269. Confirmed by the Inquis, post mortem, Ja. Anderton, 15 Jac. I. Duchy Records, vol.
XX. num. 3. -
588 (Iſiſt £istorm of £antagüirº.
“Anderton jewels” in Lancashire to this day. Local traditions are generally founded in truth, though
erroneous in detail; but in the present case the whole story appears to be a fabrication.
LIST OF WICARS OF ECCLES, extracted principally from the Episcopal Registers in the Bishop's Court at Chester, from 1504 to the
present time, with the Patrons and the successive causes of Wacancy.
Date of Institution. Vicars. Patrons. Cause of Wacancy.
1284, John º
Thomas Wright . g * Abbot and Convent of Whalley.
Dec. 31, 1504. | Thomas Holgate . . § The same & † & Death of Thomas Wright.
Thomas Bowker.
Dec. 29, 1542. George Wereall . te º Sir John Byron . ſº * Death of Thomas Bowker.
June 20, 1559. Edward Pendleton . g Philip and Mary . e * Death of last incumbent.
Dec. 7, 1576. | Thomas Williamson . g Queen Elizabeth . & gº Death of last incumbent.
May 20, 1606. John White º * e Ring James . tº gº † Death of last incumbent.
Jan. 9, 1610. John Jones Us tº º Do. e & t te Death of last incumbent.
Dec. 1659. Edmund Jones' . . . is tº ſº tº g ſº Ejected 1662, died 1674.
1663. Robert Hartley. - .
July 27, 1671. | Thomas Isherwood . * Charles II.
Aug. 24, 1678. Thomas Hall, * g The King . * § tº Death of last incumbent.
Jan. 10, 1721. | Thomas Chaddock . * Do. º © º tº Death of Thomas Hall.
Jan. 8, 1724. | Thomas Bell sº ſº g T)0. & gº º e Death of Thomas Chaddock.
July 22, 1726. Thomas Waughan tº * Do. & * * & Death of Thomas Bell.
March 9, 1747. Benjamin Nicholls . * Do. tº e e e Death of Thomas Waughan.
June 3, 1765. Cudworth Poole . º ſº Do. * e tº * Death of Benjamin Nicholls.
Dec. 27, 1768. John Crookhall . e g Do. g º g º Death of Cudworth Poole.
Oct. 31, 1792. John Clowes e º tº Do. g & ſº * Death of John Crookhall.
April 9, 1818. | Thomas Blackburne . * Do. & * º e Death of John Clowes.
April 8, 1837. William Marsden e g Do. g g † & Resignation of Thomas Blackburne.
Feb. 1861. James P. Pitcairn gº * The Lord Chancellor . tº Death of William Marsden.
The parish registers of Eccles commence in the year 1563, and furnish the following returns of baptisms,
marriages, and burials, at three different periods, something more than a century apart from each other:—
A.D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials. A. D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials.
1563 . e º 80 15 38 . 1701 . ſº & 128 28 84
1564 . º & 67 I6 54 1831 . g e 548 373 500
1700 * © 43 109 25 85 1832 . * e 487 408 543
Edward Holbrooke, Richard Haworth, Thomas Birche, and Lawrence Rawstorne, magistrates, published
the banns of marriage in 1654, in the time of the Commonwealth, during which period the Rev. Edmund Jones,
the vicar of Eccles, acted as the representative of the parish, in the first Presbyterial classis, for the county
of Lancaster. In the somewhat earlier times of fervid persecution, John Bradford, the martyr, preached in
the parishes of Eccles, Dean, and Bury, and the doctrines promulgated here constituted one of the offences
for which he was condemned to the stake.
A terrier of the glebe-lands, houses, etc., belonging to the vicarage of Eccles, dated 16th September 1663, includes the Vicar's
Acre (1 acre 2 roods 20 poles); two fields on the south side of Eccles (2 a. 3 r.); the Barn Field, the Kiln Croft, the Hemp Croft
(3 a.); the Jackson Croft (3 r.); the Christ Croft and Marled Earths (5 a. 2 r.); one orchard, two gardens and folds lying about
the vicarage house (13 a. 3 r. 20 p.) . The Vicarage House, containing divers cross buildings joined together in which are fifteen
rooms—viz. the kitchen, kitchen-parlour, two little chambers over them ; the body of the house, great parlour, buttery, and milk-
house, with two chambers over them ; parlour in the side of the passage leading to the great parlour, little parlour, larder,
and two chambers over them ; the vicarage-barn of four bays; cow-house, stable, and hay-house, three bays; one little hen-house and
swine-stye, one little bay. (14) Rents belonging to the vicarage, which stand all or part of the vicarage-land; some have small
back-sides, some have none—total of rents, £1 : 18:4. The stipend allowed yearly out of the king's rents to the vicarage, to be
paid by Francis Anderton of Lostock, esq., half-yearly (March 25 and September 29), by even portions, £16:13:4 per annum.
(Signed) ROBERT HARTLEy, Vicar de Eccles.
The rental of the glebe lands and buildings belonging to the parish church of Eccles, in 1818, is stated at £254, augmented by
“burials, christenings, and funerals,” on an average at 30s. a-week, £78; burial-ground, at £4 a-year, £16; morning funerals, at a
guinea each, £30; hat-bands and gloves, say £20–in all, £531. In 1819 the estimate was £498; and in 1861 the glebe-rents
were £700 ; dues, £100 ; vicarage, £100 ; consols, £60; and pew-rents, £24—total, #1000.
This parish contained nine Episcopal chapels, one Catholic, and various Dissenting chapels, all the latter
of modern date. The episcopal chapels are Ellenbrook, in Worsley, in the patronage of the trustees of the
late duke of Bridgewater, a domestic chapel attached to Worsley Hall, where the rite of baptism is enjoyed;
St. Peter's, Swinton, in Worsley, erected in 1791 by subscription, of which the vicar of Eccles is patron (now
a separate parish); St. Thomas's, at Pendleton, originally a small brick building erected by Samuel Brierley,
esq., and consecrated July 26, 1776. This chapel has since been superseded by a conspicuous and ornamental
Gothic edifice, founded by the vicar of Eccles, the patron of the living, September 23, 1830, and consecrated
October 7, 1831. The church, erected at the joint cost of the inhabitants and the parliamentary commission,
contains 1520 pew-sittings, of which 700 are free, exclusive of several hundred free seats on forms. In
front of the altar is a splendid picture by Paul Veronese, representing the taking of Christ from the cross,
#umbren of Šalfort—Gºttles arish. 589.
liberally presented to the church by John Greaves of Pendleton, esq. The more recent chapels are one at
Worsley, one at Walkden Moor, one at Irlam's-o'-th’-Height, one in Pendlebury, and one in Patricroft.*
The Catholic chapel at Barton was a brick edifice, with stone pillars, erected at the sole cost of Thomas
Joseph Trafford of Trafford Park, esq., in 1829–30, as a substitute for the chapel till that time existing at
Trafford House. A new stone edifice has recently replaced the brick building (1867).
The following is a list of the Dissenting chapels in this parish, with the dates of their respective
erections:—
WESLEYAN METHODIST CHAPELS-At Davy Hulme, 1779; at Irlam, 1795; at Barton, 1796; at
Eccles, 1798, and another, 1824, enlarged and rebuilt 1845; at Cadishead, 1801; at Worsley,
1802; at Swinton, 1800, rebuilt 1849; at Pendleton, 1814; at Roe Green, 1855.
METHODIST NEW CONNECTION.—At Pendleton, 1806; at Eccles, 1832.
INDEPENDENTS-At Patricroft, 1800; at New Town, 1820; Pendlebury, 1825; Eccles (Congregational),
1759.
INDEPENDENT METHODISTs—At Winton, 1832; Sindsley, 1849.
PRIMITIVE METHODISTs—Barton, 1834; Davy Hulme, 1853; Pendlebury, 1853; Wardley Lane, 1859.
METHODIST FREE CHURCH-Patricroft, 1838; Pendlebury, 1854; Winton, 1862.
NEW CHURCH (Swedenborgian)—Worsley, 1849; “Happy Land”—Pendlebury, 1852.
UNITARIANS-At Monton, 1697, rebuilt 1801-3; at Swinton, 1829, rebuilt 1857.
The Unitarians have a private chapel at Irlam's-o'-th’-Height, opened March 6, 1825, and the Primitive
Methodists and the Swedenborgians have chapels in Worsley. On the ejection of the Rev. Edmund Jones
from the parish church, most of his people remained under his ministry (service being held in the open air
in summer and in barns in winter), till his death, May 2, 1674, aged forty-eight years. His successor, the Rev.
Roger Baldwin, ejected from Rainford, in the parish of Prescot, preached in Monks Hall barn for many years.
He died in June 1695, before the erection of the chapel on Monton Green. At his death he was succeeded
by the Rev. Thomas Crompton, ejected from Toxteth Park, near Liverpool, who died September 2, 1699 ;
during whose ministry, the old Monton chapel was built, under the greater freedom afforded for worship by
the Act of Toleration (1 William and Mary, 1689). The conveyance of its freehold site from Mr. Peter
Ormrod was executed in February 1697, so the chapel was probably opened in that or the following year.
Mr. Crompton's successor was the Rev. Jeremiah Aldred, who died 26th August 1729, and was succeeded by
the Rev. John Chorley, previously chaplain to Sir Robert Dukinfield, the first baronet of Dukinfield, whose
daughter Jane he married. He was the minister at Monton about thirty-five years, dying in 1764. The
subsequent ministers were Rev. Richard Hodgson, till June 1771, when he was succeeded by the Rev. Richard
Bolton, who died in 1773. His successor was the Rev. John Ludd Fenner, who left for Nantwich in 1779.
The Rev. George Smith was the next minister till 1786, when he went to North Shields. His successor was the
Rev. Henry Toulmin, till 1787: he became a judge in the United States. The Rev. George Wyche was minister
from 1788 to 1795, when he resigned and was succeeded by the Rev. Thomas Knowles, who died in 1797. In
February 1798 the Rev. Robert Smethurst became the minister, till his death, October 15, 1846, a pastorate
of more than forty-eight years. He was succeeded by the Rev. Thomas Elford Poynting, the present minister.
A spacious building near the chapel, erected in 1861 by the liberality of a resident family, is used as Sunday
and Infant day-schools. Each place of worship in this parish has a Sunday-school attached to it, and there
are day-schools at Irlam, Eccles, Roe Green, Clifton, Pendleton, and Pendlebury, in which a few children are
educated gratuitously. At Swinton a commodious Sabbath day-school, supported by subscription, was opened
in 1833, and a large building erected in 1864; and there are national schools at Pendleton and Eccles.
The parliamentary commissioners, in their 16th report [March 1826], enumerate the following as the
charities in the parish of Eccles:— -
1689 to 1711. Various benefactions of small sums, amounting to £62, laid out in the erection of a gallery in the parish
church, the pew-rents of which, being reserved for the poor, produce annually º - g £15 2 6
1800. Bradshaw's Charity; rent-charge for the purchase of books and instruction of children at Davy Hulme
school; and bread to the poor of Barton and Eccles ; annual disbursement . ſº w f29 5 0
In annual sums and donations of linen cloth to the poor, sick, and lying-in women of Crofts Bank,
Barton, and Eccles . º - º º º º e e 1.1 2 4.
Sundry disbursements on account of the charity . - s 4. - º e 3 16 24
- 43 3 61.
WORSLEY. –1657. Dame Dorothy Leigh's Charity; one-fourth of the interest of £500 to Middle Hulton and Worsley; in 6%
1826 the overseers of the latter received & - © s -> tº º 11 3 4
PENDLETON.”—1727. Openshaw's Charity; £105 stock, of which the annual dividends are given in equal portions to two
schools in Pendleton, where poor children are taught to read the bible e g º * - 4 4 0
Although Eccles was almost the centre of the civil wars of the Commonwealth, and though Sir Cecil
Trafford and Sir Thomas Tyldesley, at the two opposite sides of the parish, were both deeply engaged in the
eventful transactions of those times, both civil and military, only one military operation of any great
* Several new parishes have been carved out of the old parish of Eccles—viz. Worsley, Swinton, and Walkden Moor, 1867. H.
. * 21st Parl. Report, p. 321.
590 (ſiſt #igtúrg of 3|antagijire.
importance took place in this parish. The pass of the Gless having become a point of contention after the
siege of Manchester, the earl of Derby placed a battery of cannon in Holcroft Wood, commanding the passage
of Little Woolden, but his forces were driven from their station and defeated at Woolden, not far from the
residence of the brave Sir Thomas Tyldesley. The name of “Bury Lane” serves to indicate the place of
interment of the slain. Here many broken Swords, armour, spears, etc., have been dug up, and when the
bridge of Little Woolden was repaired some years ago, a cannon-ball, now in the possession of J. A. Borron,
esq., was found imbedded in the structure, which may be regarded as a remnant of the contest between the
“Cavaliers and the Roundheads.” In 1745, the duke of Cumberland, in his pursuit of Prince Edward's army,
after spending the previous night at Dunham Massey, having crossed the Mersey at Hollins Green, passed the
valley of the Gless on his way to Wigan by Leigh; and James Clayton, the person who served as his guide,
and who died some years ago at an advanced age, described the country through which they marched as little
better than an uncultivated wild.
The population returns of the parish of Eccles were made with considerable precision before the
parliamentary census began to be regularly taken. From these returns we find that within little more than
half-a-century the number of inhabitants has increased upwards of threefold. In 1776 they amounted to
8729; in 1780, to 9148; in 1790, to 12,430; in 1801, to 16,119 ; in 1811, to 19,502; in 1821, to 23,331 ;
in 1831, to 28,083; in 1851, to 41,497; and in 1861, to 52,679.
An annual festival is held at Eccles, of great rustic celebrity, and of high antiquity, as old probably as
the first erection of the church, called Eccles Wakes, celebrated on the first Sunday in September ; and there
is a wake at Swinton on the first Sunday after the 23d of July, and another at Wood Gate, in Clifton, on
Saturday in Whitsun week, by way of concluding the festivities of that carnival period. Though Eccles
wakes commence on the Sunday, the fair is continued during the three succeeding days, and consists of feasting
upon a kind of local confectionery called “Eccles cakes,” and ale, with various ancient and modern sports:—
“Tarts and custards, creams and cakes,
Are the junkets still at wakes,
Unto which the tribe resort
Where the business is the sport.”
All the authorities agree in assigning the first institution of wakes to the annual assembling of the
people to watch and pray on the festival of the Saint to whom their church was dedicated (or on the anniver-
sary of the dedication itself), and this was doubtless the case originally in Eccles; and the festival of St.
Mary the Virgin being on the 22d of August, and the wakes on the first Sunday after the 25th of August,
the correspondence is tolerably well preserved. The wakes or dedication of churches are coeval with
Christianity, and were annually kept upon saint days; but it often happened that those days fell in the time
of harvest, which proving inconvenient, the wakes were ordered to be kept on the following Sunday. The
day was not of sufficient length for these services, and hence the devout people provided themselves with
candles, over which they kept their vigils or wakes; but the wolves seem to have crept in amongst the flock,
in these nightly scenes, and, says the Legend of St. John the Baptist, “they then fell to lecherie and songs,
dances, harping, piping, and also to glotony and sinne, and so turned holinesse to cursydness.” In the reign
of Queen Elizabeth the wakes having this licentious character were put down or greatly reformed in Lanca-
shire, by a commission appointed by the queen, of which the earl of Derby and the bishop of Chester were
members. The people, however, became impatient under these restraints, and, to gratify their wishes, the
wakes were revived in this county by the proclamation of James I., issued from Hoghton Tower on the 24th
May 1618, on which his unfortunate successor's memorable Book of Sunday Sports, published in 1633, was
founded. Since that time the wakes at Eccles have had their ancient license, though of late years the sports
have been divested of their more vulgar and brutal features. Another annual festival, called the Gyst-ale or
Guising, which has now fallen into disuse, prevailed in this parish for several centuries, and excited an
inordinate degree of village emulation. In the month when the marling season terminated, rural processions,
with their “king” at their head, were formed in each township or village, consisting, amongst others, of
those persons who had been engaged in marling and manuring the land, all gaily decked out, like the
principal performers at Rush-Bearings, and each of them furnished with garlands, the principal garland being
of large size, with vessels of silver-plate hung to it, often of great value, and contributed by the gentry for
the occasion. The object of ambition was to excel in the splendour of their procession; and in the year
1777, it is said by the author of an obscurely written book, under the title of The History of Eccles and
* Bill of fare served upon these occasions:—“ECCLES WAKE..—
On Monday morning at eleven o’clock the sports will commence [the
sports of Sunday being passed over in silence], with that most
ancient, loyal, rational, constitutional, and lawful diversion, BULL-
BAITING in all its primitive excellence, for which this place has long
been noted. At one o'clock there will be a foot-race ; at two o'clock
a bull-baiting, for a horse-collar; at four, donkey-races for a pair
of panniers; at five, a race for a stuff hat ; the day's sports to
conclude with baiting the bull Fury, for a superior dog-chain. On
TUESDAY the sports will be repeated ; also on WEDNESDAY, with
the additional attraction of a smock-race by ladies. A main of
cocks to be fought on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, for twenty
guineas, and five guineas the byes, between the gentlemen of
Manchester and Eccles; the wake to conclude with a fiddling-
match by all the fiddlers that attend, for a piece of silver.”
* Dugdale's Monasticon, fo, 514.
#umbret ºf $alfort—(£ccles 3}arigly, 59]
Barton's Contentious Guising War," that the Guisers in the latter township collected and expended, from June
to September £687 : 1s. in this idle parade, while the Eccles Guisers expended no less a sum in those months
than £2242 : 1: 6 in the same contest, raised by collections from the gentry and the neighbouring farmers.
To stimulate liberality, the sum given by each individual was publicly announced, and the treasurer of the
feast, on hearing it, exclaimed—“A largessel” on which the populace demanded from whom 7 when the
name of the donor was proclaimed, with the affix of “My Lord” attached to it. The loss of time, and the
expense of preparation and dissipation, were not the only evils of the guising ; the rival parties frequently
came to blows, and a kind of servile war was kept up in that year between the villages of Eccles and Barton of
three months' duration. Anciently the lord of the manor received a contribution out of the collections, and
the conductors of the procession at Ashton-under-Lyne paid Sir John de Assheton, lord of the manor of
Ashton, 20s. a-year as a fee of office.” While the people of Eccles and of Barton had their wake and their
guising, their neighbours at Pendleton and Pendlebury celebrated the ancient festival of the goddess Flora by
the Maypole, to which the watchful care of King Charles and his royal progenitor extended, when they printed,
in their proclamation and Book of Sports, that after the end of divine service on Sundays, their “good people
be not disturbed, letted, or discharged, from the having of May games, and the setting up of the Maypoles,”
etc. The ancient practice was to erect the pole on May-day, and to surround it with a species of verdant
booths, brought from “Blakeley Forest,” which were decked annually with garlands and flowers, and
around which the people assembled to dance and celebrate their May games. Pendleton pole is of much
higher antiquity than the Reformation; for in the will of Thomas del Bothe, who died in 47 Edward III.
(1373), the sum of 30s, is bequeathed towards making the causeway at Pendleton near “ le Poll.” In the
time of the Commonwealth the Pendleton pole was taken down, in virtue of an ordinance of Parliament
against Maypoles, and such other “heathenish vanities,” but it was re-erected at the Restoration, and existed
till a few years ago.
LOCAL ANNALS.
1111. To this year tradition assigns the erection of Eccles Church.
1192. Edith de Barton, lady of the manor, granted to Geoffrey de Byron, clerk, and Robert de Greslet, lord of the manor of
Mamecestre, one half of the church of Eccles, with Some lands.
1235. John de Lacy, earl of Lincoln, bought the advowson of Gilbert de Barton, and gave it, with its chapels, to the abbey of
Stanlaw. The church was formally appropriated to that abbey by Alexander, bishop of Coventry and Lichfield, 29th December
1235.
1277. Ordination of the vicarage of Eccles, by Roger Meuland, bishop of Lichfield and Coventry, 18th April 1277. -
1284. By deed of 1st May, Richard, son of Richard the Rymer, Surrenders to Stanlaw Abbey 10 acres of the glebe of Eccles.
1291. Under the valuation of Pope Nicholas IV., in this year, the church of Eccles was valued at £20 per annum.
1293. By deed of 18th November Henry de Workedlegh, or Worsley, grants to the high altar of Eccles church one pound of
wax yearly on St. Martin's day, November 11th. *
i868, The chapel or chantry of St. Katharine, on the south side of the church, previously founded by Thomas del Bothe of
Barton, who left by will in this year a bequest of £6 : 13:4 yearly to its two chaplains.
1450. A second chantry in the chapel of St. Katharine founded by William Bothe, bishop of Lichfield and Coventry, with two
chaplains, endowed with £16 yearly.
1460. A third chantry, styled “The College of Jesus and the blessed Virgin Mary,” founded by the same William Bothe, D.D.,
then archbishop of York, with two chaplains, endowed with £9 : 6 : 8 yearly.
1475-1498. Within these years a fourth chantry, of “The Holy Trinity,” was founded by Sir Geoffrey Massey, knight, then
lord of the manors of Worsley in Eccles and of Tatton, Cheshire. [This is now the Brereton or Bridgewater Chapel.]
1478. The yearly receipts for the church of Eccles and the parish of Dean are stated by the treasurers of Whalley Abbey at
4263; 17:4. The tithes of Mawnton (Monton) in that year were £11 : 13:8; those of Swinton, £4: 7s.
1521. Annual receipts of Whalley Abbey for the church of Eccles and the chapel of Dean, £119 : 10:4}.
Mawnton, £16 : 18s. ; those of Swinton, £4 : 7s.
1539. At the dissolution of the monasteries the Advowson of Eccles became vested in the crown, where it still remains.
1548. Two chantries in Eccles church were suppressed—the Holy Trinity and Jesus College ; now known as the Bridgewater
and Trafford chapels. -
1553. The two chantries restored under Queen Mary. -
1558. The chantries finally suppressed under Edward VI. and Queen Elizabeth.
1563. Eccles parish registers commence.
1574. John Radcliffe of Ordsall, esq., gave the western window.
1595. August 27. Avestry ordered three church-leys throughout the parish for repairing the church, and for making new pews
and forms. They also assigned the seats to the principal parishioners, etc. December 11. Further orders as to the seats.
The tithes of
£1881 were the aggregate sums raised in the two townships in this
1 This rare tract was printed in 1778, pp. 19, price 3d. The
author's name is thus printed in the title page: “By F. HºR"G”N.”
(, Harrington). The author states that this “Guising” originated
in Mr. Chorlton of Monks Hall, Eccles, giving money to labourers
for a “marling” feast, and some neighbours of Barton township
carrying a garland, and 3s. 6d. in money, to the marl-pit. This
provoked the emulation of the people of Eccles, and they in turn
made a garland, had a procession, and gave 4s. 6d, Barton re-
joined with a £5 subscription ; Eccles then raised #13 ; Barton, in
reply, collected £37; Eccles, £347; Barton finally raised £644,
to be utterly eclipsed by Eccles with £1881. If these were sepa-
rate amounts, and not the same Subscription increased from time to
time, the total amount raised would seem to have been £2929. But
this seems incredible. It is more probable that the £644 and
foolish affair.—H.
* “Ilargesse l’” The cry of the heralds on receiving donations
from knights on entering the lists at ancient tournaments, prevailing
as early as the twelfth century.
* In the Rent-Roll of the Manor of Assheton-under-Lyme of 1422,
the following entries occur as sums received by the lord of the
manor, Sir John de Assheton, knight :—“ The GySt Ale of the
Town of Assheton.—Margaret, that was the wife of Hobbe the
Kynge, for hyr fine, 3s. and 4d. Hobbe Adamson, for his fine, 3s.
and 4d. Roger the Baxter, for his fine, 3s. and 4d. Robert
Somayster, for his fine, 3s. and 4d. Jenkyn of the Wode, for his
fine, 3s. and 4d. Thomas of Curtnall, for his fine, 3s. and 4d.”
* Leland's Itinerary.
592 The #istorm of £ancashire.
1598. July 6. Orders as to the seats for the parishioners generally. July 10. These were confirmed and ratified by an order of
the bishop of Chester (Dr. Richard Vaughan).
1598. December 17. Richard Brereton, esq., of Worsley died; his tomb is in the Bridgewater chapel.
1600. The tomb was erected by Dorothy, widow of Richard Brereton, esq. of Worsley.
1610. The rectory and tithes conveyed by the Crown to Morris and Phillips.
1639, April 4. Dorothy, the widow of Richard Brereton, esq., died. *
1654. During the Commonwealth four magistrates published the banns of marriage, and the marriages were made before one
or more of these justices instead of a clergyman.
1657. Dame Dorothy Leigh left one-fourth of the interest of £500 to the poor of Middle Hulton and Worsley. [In 1826 the
Worsley overseers received from this source £11:3s : 4.]
1662, August. The Rev. Edmund Jones, then vicar, declining to make the declaration required by the Act of Uniformity,
was ejected.
1674, December 31. George Legh, esq. of Barton, died
[The following are chiefly from the Churchwardens' Accounts.]
1693, November 20. The great bell ordered to be rung at 8 p.m., from September 29th to March 25th.
1694, April 7. To the clerk, for ringing the curfew on the fourth bell, 20s.
1697, April 5. The vestry in the chapel belonging to the duke of Bridgewater's family, Worsley, said to be only On Sufferance,
and to be removed at pleasure.
1706. The church of Eccles valued at nearly £80 per annum.
1709, November 21. Six bells ordered for the steeple, instead of the old peal of four only. Peter Aldred of Monton left £3
yearly to the poor.
1710, December 25. Thomas Collier, by will, left a yearly rent-charge of £5 to teach twenty poor children of Worsley.
1711. Samuel Charlton of Monton left £3 yearly to the poor.
1713. The church beautified, and the Royal Arms [of Queen Anne] painted for the niche set behind the porch-door. [Another
account says the arms were placed at the choir entrance.]
1715, April 8. The vestry removed [from the Bridgewater chapel to the west end of the church].
1716. Trust-deed for Collier's Charity, at Roe Green School.
1717, August 12. The west gallery ordered to be erected. The church was thoroughly repaired this year. , Various Small
benefactions from the year 1689 to 1711, amounting in all to £62, were expended in the erection of this gallery; the pew-rents of
which being received and applied in relief of the poor, produced yearly £15:2:6.
1720. Sir Lawrence Anderton, bart. of Lostock, sold his tithes in Eccles, Dean, etc. -
1723. Sale to Francis Colston, esq. of London, of all the rectories impropriate of Eccles and Dean, with their rights, etc., and
all manner of tithes, etc., thereto belonging.
1726. The christening-pew ordered to be erected.
1727. Openshaw's Charity to Pendleton of £105 stock. It is equally divided, £4:4s. yearly, between two schools;in Pendleton
where poor children are taught to read the Bible. Scroope, duke of Bridgewater, granted land at Roe Green for a school.
1732. The bishop of Chester held a confirmation at Eccles Church, whereby theringers had all of them 8s. by the churchwardens.
Richard Crompton, warden for Pendlebury and Clifton, paid 3s. for three fox-heads.
1737. A new bell bought, which cost the parish £24. N.B.-Eight leys that year.
1742, April 19. Paid for the heythorn tree [hawthorn] and setting [in the churchyard] 1s. 5d.
1748, April 11. Resolved by a parish meeting, that when the hearse is employed out of the parish in carrying a corpse, there
shall be paid to the sexton Is. a mile for every mile it shall go from the parish church ; the money to be paid on the receipt of the
hearse. This order is signed by Benjamin Nicholls, vicar, and by ten churchwardens and parishioners.
1761. The Rev. Benjamin Nicholls, vicar, cut down the trees in the churchyard, and a case for counsel was sent to George
Kenyon, esq., barrister, whose opinion was given 27th July.
1764, September 8. The burial-order of Dr. Keene, bishop of Chester. Expenses attending the getting of this order, £1 : 13: 2.
1769, May 31. Avestry authorised an application to the Consistory Court of Chester for a faculty for the erection of two galleries
in the parish church.
1770. The faculty obtained for the north and south galleries; the expenses of getting which were £6 : 16s. The north and
south galleries ordered to be erected.
1771. A vestry to be made where the hearse-house was.
1776. The dues of the church settled.
1777. Eccles and Barton's Guisings published. *
1787. Paid the sexton fourpence for warning people against “Lifting” at Easter. James Barlow made a large cover [a sort of
hood or canopy] for the clergyman when he attends the funerals.
1789. Paid for 45 lbs. candles, at 7d. per lb., to illuminate the church on the happy recovery of King George III. [from his
mental disorder].
1790. The church-porch rebuilt.
1791. In this year St. Peter's Episcopal chapel, Swinton, was erected. Minister's, clerk's, and Sexton's dues fixed.
1794. The vestry under the steeple ordered to be made.
1800. Bradshaw's Charity—a rent-charge for books and teaching of "children at Davy Hulme School, and bread to the poor of
Barton and Eccles, yearly £24 : 5s. In money and linen to poor, sick, and lying-in-women of Crofts Bank, Barton, and Eccles,
#11 : 2: 4. Expenses, £3 : 16 : 24. Total yearly, £43 : 3 : 6%.
1802, April 19. The schoolmaster at the parish school shall charge the following sums per quarter for teaching—viz. reading, 3s. ;
reading and writing, 6s. ; reading, Writing, and accounts, 7s. 6d.
1803. The new east gallery ordered to be erected. -
1804. The fee for the hearse going out of the parish was fixed at 7s., to be paid to the churchwardens.
1806. The churchyard levelled and the headstones laid flat down. Number of flags, 496; of headstones, 820.
1809. Iron gates were ordered (and made) for the church-porch. *
1812. By vote the parish gave the surplus money that had arisen from time to time, from the west, the south, and the north
galleries (amounting to £89: 4; 2%) towards building the new organ in Eccles church. The surplus from the west gallery was
£47 : 15: 10%, and from the north and south galleries, £4.1 : 8:4}. In this year the new parish school was built at a cost of £148.
1812. The Infants' School built in the churchyard. A new organ was ordered for the church.
1813, April 21. (Wednesday). The new organ, built by Davis of London (contract price £500), was opened with a performance
of sacred music in the church ; nine instrumental and eighteen vocal performers. Best seats, 5s. ; north and south galleries, 4s. ;
body of the church, 2s. ; books of the words, 6d. each. A grand assembly was held the same evening at Mr. Wm. Phillips's, the
Grapes Inn. Gentlemen's tickets, 7s. ; ladies', 5s. ; the proceeds to go to an organ fund. Mr. Wilkinson appointed organist.
1813. A hearse-house ordered to be built [in the churchyard]. +
1816. The new church-gates placed. They cost £49.
1817, December. Mr. Wilkinson, organist, resigned.
#umbret of $alfort—(£ccles 3}arisiſ. 593
1818, 4.1% yards of black cloth, at 7s., bought for the pulpit, etc., when Princess Charlotte died. Paid three men two days
for covering, £1 : 4s. Fringe and trimming, 18s. 1d. .
1819. Paid for mourning [cloth, etc..] for Princess Charlotte, £30:14:2. This year was erected the new entrance-gate on the
north side of the church. -
1825. It was ordered that eight bells be placed in the steeple [in the place of the peal of six, hung in 1709, before which year
there were only four bells].
1827. The black cloth for hanging the pulpit, etc., in mourning for the duke of York, cost £11 : 7 : 3.
[Here the Extracts from the Churchwardens' Accounts are discontinued.]
FROM THE CHURCHWARDENs' ORDER-BOOK.
1832, August 13. Ordered that two gates of wrought iron be immediately erected at the entrance of the churchyard, south side.
September 3. Mr. William Whittaker offered 1372 square yards of land, from the field adjoining the churchyard, at 3d. per square
yard and twenty years' purchase—for the purpose of enlarging the burial-ground. Mr. Bradburn offered a plot of the glebe-land,
called Vicarage Meadow, on behalf of the Rev. Thomas Blackburne, vicar, containing 2100 square yards, at 2d. per square yard and
twenty years' purchase. The churchwardens recommended the parishioners to purchase the glebe-land, and the bishop approved
such purchase. The fee for interment of any out-parishioner was increased to 7s.6d. from 6th September 1832.
1833. At a meeting of churchwardens on the 14th March, it was resolved that the estimate of Mr. Bradburn for the new burial-
ground wall be accepted, as follows:–282 Square yards, 7 feet, 6 inches of brick walling, 5 feet high, at 4s. 6d. per yard, £63 : 12s.
176 yards of coping stone at 3s. 1d. per yard, £25 : 14:1. 13 yards rough flag, for the foundation of the end wall, at 2s., £1 : 6s.
A gate for the new burial-ground was also Ordered to be provided immediately. A committee was appointed to regulate the parish
church school, and to report to the parishioners on its present state at Easter. At a vestry on 8th April, this committee was
re-appointed. At a meeting of the 17th May, it was ordered that Mr. Bradburn do partition the benches off in the middle of the
church. On the 9th September a rate of three-farthings in the pound was laid for the churchwardens to defray the necessary
expenses about the church and School.
1834, January 4. At a meeting held this day it was agreed that a new hearse be ordered, with an oak chest, nine plumes,
three springs, patent axle, duly painted and varnished, and altogether of the best quality; and a new set of harness was also
ordered. Mr. John Richardson contracted to supply the hearse, etc. (harness excepted) for £42.
1854. The galleries were new roofed, and other repairs of the church done.
1856. The old flagged flooring of the church taken up, renewed and relaid. A wooden floor laid for the seats. The old oak
pulpit taken out of its deal case and set nearer to the chancel by the span of an arch. Several old stone coffin-lids found beneath
the floor. They are now in the vicarage-garden.
1862. The east gallery removed, and other repairs effected.
1863. The great renovation and restoration of the church completed. The edifice was roofed, floored, lighted, and ventilated
anew. The old vestry was converted into the west porch, and filled with mural monuments; a new vestry was built out on the north
side of the chancel. The new chapel of St. Katharine built out, on the old site, on the south side. Several memorial windows of
stained glass placed. The open seats re-arranged, and new seats erected in St. Katharine's Chapel, etc. A new font erected at the
west end of the chancel. The old organ removed from the west gallery and sold to the church at Walkden Moor. A new large and
fine organ, built by Hill and Son, London, placed on the floor of the church, on the south side, between the Bridgewater Chapel
and St. Katharine's Chantry. The whole interior cleaned, painted, and refurnished. Receipts and Expenditure for this great
renovation —Subscriptions (93), £4050 : 2s. ; sale of old organ (£100), materials, collections at opening, etc., #455 : 1 : 4–Total
receipts, £4505 : 3:4. . [In addition, the Seven stained-glass windows, presented by various donors, are valued at £841 : 5s. ; and
gifts of different articles of church furniture, fitting, and use, £170; together in gifts, £1011 : 13s.-making the total value of
offerings in money and materials, £5516 : 16:4.] The expenditure was necessarily very large ; the chief amounts being to the
masons, £2439 ; joiner, É1426 ; Organ-builder, £700; plasterer, É436; architect, #347; carvers, £315; plumber, É164; clerk of
the works, £160; total expenditure, £6682:11: 2. The balance owing was afterwards made up by further subscriptions.
Saturday, March 14th. The church was reopened after its restoration. The Rev. James Pelham Pitcairn, M.A., vicar, and the
Rev. R. L. Connell, curate, took part in the services of the church ; and the sermon was preached by the Right Rev. James Prince
Lee, D.D., bishop of Manchester, from 1 Thess. chap. v. 8, 9, 10. On Sunday, March 15, other opening sermons were preached
by the Very Rev. Dr. Bowers, dean of Manchester, and the Rev. James Bardsley, M.A. The collections at the three services on
Saturday and Sunday amounted to £162. -
1864, August 11. More than 6000 silver pennies of Kings Henry, John, and William I. of Scotland, found by James Britch, a
mill-hand, in an earthenware pot, just below the surface, near Monk's Hall, Eccles. The coins were sent as “treasure-trove” to
the duchy of Lancaster office, and Britch received their bullion value, £73 : 2: 6. Small collections of these coins were presented
to various local museums in Lancashire.—Railway opened from Eccles to Wigan.
1866. Harriet Catherine, dowager-countess of the first earl of Ellesmere, died on the 17th, and was interred on the 24th April,
in the family vault in St. Mark's Church, Worsley. -
1867, May 30. Seven men killed by an explosion in the Mesne Lea coal-pit, Worsley, belonging to Messrs. Peter Nightingale
and Company.
Although this parish contains a population of thirty thousand Souls, there is neither weekly market nor
annual fair in any of its five townships.
The cotton-manufacture prevails here to a considerable extent. The articles manufactured are chiefly
nankeen, calico, fustians, drills, and dimity; there are also calico print-works, and silk throwing and weaving,
with power-loom establishments. All the facilities afforded by the Mersey and Irwell navigation, the duke
of Bridgewater's Canal, the Manchester, Bolton, and Bury Canal, and the Manchester and Liverpool Railway,
are engaged in the flourishing business of the parish. Up to the period of the opening of the railroad,
twenty coaches travelled daily each way through Eccles; now (1868) not one is left, and instead of a
fatiguing coach journey of two days from Manchester to Liverpool, the distance is now traversed by railway
trains regularly in little more than an hour. The new branch line from the Liverpool line in Eccles to Wigan,
opened in 1864, passes through Worsley and Ellenbrook, and through Tyldesley, Chowbent, and Hindley.
PATRICROFT-This place, which a few years ago was but a row or two of houses, is now a considerable
manufacturing village, with a population of 5000. It contains the Bridgewater Foundry, a silk-mill, and
several cotton-mills. On Saturday, January 11, 1868, Mr. Oliver Heywood laid the corner-stone of Christ
Church, Patricroft. The site of the building has been occupied during the past five or six years by an iron
church, in place of which the present structure is being erected. About £1000 of the necessary funds have been
4 G
594 Qſìje #istorg ºf £antagjire.
provided by the Messrs. Heywood; other local subscribers have also contributed liberally, the Diocesan Church-
Building Society has assisted to the extent of £300, and of the £4000 estimated cost, all has been raised but £600.
The plan comprises nave with side-aisles, and is arranged so that if additional accommodation be required, tran-
septs may be added at a future period; also chancel, with organ-chamber and vestry adjoining. The internal
length of nave and chancel is 105 feet, the width of nave and aisles 51 feet 4 inches, and the height to ridge of
roof 47 feet. The style of architecture is Early English, firmly treated. The nave has on each side an arcade
of six arches, formed of moulded bricks of various colours, supported by circular pillars of red Mansfield stone,
with carved and moulded caps of Bath stone. The chancel-arch has additional enrichments. The principal
entrances are in the west elevation, fronting the turnpike road, connected with vestibules, and are arranged so
as to avoid the possibility of draughts in any part of the church. The font is in the nave, adjoining the
entrances. The west gable is pierced with large circular windows, and from this gable springs a lofty en-
riched belfry, terminating with gilt vane. The windows of the aisles are coupled lancets, and the east end
has a five-light window with elaborate tracery. The windows of the clerestory are of varied designs. All
the roofs are framed of red deal. The church will be faced externally with Pierrepoint masonry, with dressings
of Hallington stone, and the interior will be finished with brickwork of various colours, and the remainder
plastered. The slating will be in bands of alternate colours. The stalls for the choir will be in the chancel,
which will be paved with encaustic tiles. The communion-table will be raised five steps above the nave.
The reading-desk will be of oak, and the pulpit of stone. The church will be heated and ventilated by
Messrs. Haden's apparatus. A gallery will be erected at the west end, with seats for 68 persons; and there
will be accommodation on the ground-floor for 532 persons. One half of the seats will be free and unappro-
priated. It is anticipated that the church will be consecrated in the latter part of the year, as the works are
now being rapidly carried out by the builder, Mr. H. Southam of Salford, who undertakes them at the cost
of £3800, under the direction of Mr. J. Lowe, architect, Manchester. Of this new church the Rev. S. Dale is
the incumbent.
Barton, as we have seen, and as the name imports, is a manor as well as a township. The river Irwell
has the township of Barton on both its banks from Trafford Park to Davy Hulme, where that river becomes
the boundary-line till it falls into the Mersey. The Mersey and the Glazebrook also form boundaries to this
township. The village of Barton is five miles from Manchester; at this place a noble aqueduct conveys the
Bridgewater Canal from Worsley to Manchester across the river Irwell. Barton Old Hall, a brick edifice, with
two gables in front, a projecting wing, and mullion windows, now used as a farm-house, was successively the
seat of the Bartons, the Booths, and the Leighs, and is now the property of G. C. Leigh of High Leigh, esq.
Trafford Hall, or House, in Trafford Park, the residence of Sir Humphrey de Trafford, descended from
Randle de Trafford, temp. Edward the Confessor, of the ancient family, lords of Barton and Stretford, is a
modern structure of freestone, with a semicircular front, divided by columns. Attached to it are the remains
of the old fabric, composed of brick gables. The grounds are watered by the Irwell, and by the Bridgewater
Canal. The Trafford estates (said to have passed uninterruptedly in the male line for eight centuries) were
devised by the will of Humphrey Trafford of Trafford, esq., dated 5th June 1779, to his collateral kinsman,
John Trafford of Croston, esq., who largely increased their value by obtaining an act of parliament in 1793
to authorise him to let lands on building-leases, and to lease the Waste (or Weaste) mosslands in the parishes
of Manchester and Eccles for ninety-nine years."
Beaucliffe Hall, in this township, on the east side of the village of Eccles, was taken down many years
ago, and has been replaced by two modern mansions, called Higher and Lower Benteliffe. Beaucliffe was once
the seat of Thomas Holt, esq.; it was afterwards the estate of Richard Valentine, who married Anne Hopwood
in the reign of Henry VII., from whom it passed to Thomas Valentine in 1595, and to Richard Valentine
of Preston and Benteliffe, high-sheriff of the county palatine of Lancaster, in 1713, by whose descendants
it was sold in the last century to Mr. Partington, from whom it passed to Mr. Bentley, the late owner.
Monks Hall, a venerable wood-and-plaster fabric, now the residence of Mr. Drinkwater, near Eccles church,
was in 1596 the seat of Ellis Hey, gent. Ellis Hey, esq., compounded for his estate in 1646, paying to parlia-
ment £309, as did John Valentine of Beaucliffe, gent, paying £255 : 4:9. “Monke Hall” is supposed to have
been once a cell, or perhaps a grange, of Whalley Abbey. Before 1681 the estate had passed to Mr. Willis,
and is now the property of his descendant, Richard Willis of Halsnead, near Prescot, esq. On a stone inside the
barn is the following inscription :-‘Mrs. Hellen Willis, relict of Martin Willis, gent, deceased, Me AEdificavit
1692.” Close to the outer wall of Monks Hall, on ground known to have been an ancient orchard, which in
August 1864 was being laid out for a new street, a mill-operative, named James Britch, found some silver
coins, which the removal of the surface greensward for a footpath had laid bare. Two days afterwards,
on the 11th August, he made a further search, and discovered in the whole more than 6000 silver pennies of
Henry [I. II. and III.'ſ], a few Irish pennies of King John, and a still smaller number of silver pennies of
William I. (“the Lion”) of Scotland. These were all contained in a coarse earthenware pot, much resembling
a modern flower-pot. These coins, after some question between the Treasury and the Duchy of Lancaster,
1. Notitia Cestriensis. Note by the Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 50.
#umbret of Šalforn—Grcles #arish. 595
were ultimately handed over to the Duchy Office as “treasure-trove "belonging to the Queen in her right as
T)uchess of Lancaster. A selection was made from them for the British Museum, and smaller assortments
were presented by the Chancellor of the Duchy to Lancashire museums. Ultimately the finder received
from the Duchy the sum of £73: 2: 6, being the full value of the silver by weight. The Chancellor of the
Duchy also presented to the writer (who had prevented the dispersion of the coins, and had caused them to
be sent to the authorities) a selection of the coins. He also possesses the flower-pot in which they were
found, which was dug up in his presence. - w
Lostock Hall, one mile from the village of Barton, now a plain brick building, was occupied and pos-
sessed by the Barlows, and Humphrey Barlow occurs in 1595. .
Davy Hulme Hall was the seat of John de Hulme in the reign of Henry II. The family continued here for
many generations, and the estate was purchased by John Allen of Mayfield, Co. Derby, esq., in the eighteenth
century, whose daughter and heiress conveyed it by marriage to Henry Norreys, esq., said to be descended
from Nicholas Norreys of Tarleton, younger brother of Sir William Norris of Speke, living in the reign of
Henry VI. Mary, sole daughter and heiress of Henry Norreys, esq., having married, in 1809, Robert Josias
Jackson Harris of Uley, Co. Gloucester, esq., the gentleman assumed, by sign-manual, the name and arms
of Norreys, and his son, Robert Henry Norreys, esq., is the present owner of Davy Hulme. The house is a
handsome modern mansion.' -
Irlam Hall, a mansion of the Elizabethan age, the property of the late John Greaves of Salford, esq.,
is now used as a farm-house. This edifice contains a principal beam of massive size, the largest, probably, in
the county. In the 17th year of the reign of King John (1215), the abbot
of Cokersand claimed exemptions by royal charter from certain fines and
amerciaments in his abbey lands of Irwelham, Barton, Workedeley, Clifton,
and Mawyngton, in this parish, but his claim was disallowed.” It was the
property of the Irlams in the fifteenth century, and had passed to Sir
George Lathom, knight, in the time of Edward VI. His descendant,
Thomas Lathom, lived here in 1681, and his estate was alienated at the
Revolution. Jane, his daughter, and sole heiress by survivorship, married,
about 1693, John Finney of Fulshaw Hall, Co. Chester, gentleman, and
had a son, Captain Samuel Finney, living in 1741. The estate, after some
intermediate alienations, was purchased by John Greaves of Highfield, esq.,’
who died 10th December 1815, and was succeeded by his son, John Greaves,
esq., who died July 8, 1849, unmarried; and his sister resided at the hall
till her death in 1866. In 1595, Irlam was possessed by George Lathome;
subsequently it passed to the Stanleys, and was afterwards the property of
the Pages, until purchased from them by the late John Greaves of
Highfield, esq., father of the late possessor.
Great Woolden, or Wolden Hall, at the western extremity of the
parish of Eccles and the township of Barton, is a large brick pile, with two
gables and tall chimneys, now occupied as a farm-house. In 1595, this
hall was the “worshipful seat of Thomas Holcroft, esq.,” one of a family who shared largely in the church
property at the Reformation, but not the notorious Sir Thomas Holcroft of Vale Royal. Of this family
Camden says:—
“After Chatmosse appears Holcroft, which gave both name and residence to the illustrious family of the Holcrofts, which
was anciently enlarged by the heirs of Culchit. This last place is in its neighbourhood, and was held by Gilbert de Culchit, in
fee of Almeric the Cup-bearer, who held it in fee of the earls de Ferrars, in Henry III. His eldest daughter and heir being
married to Richard Fitz-Hugh, he took the name of Culchit, as did Thomas his brother, who married the Second daughter,
that of Holcroft from the estate ; another, for the like reason, that of Peasfalong, and a fourth of Riseley. I mention this that
the reader may understand the variable disposition of our ancestors, so steady in other matters, in quitting or assuming names
from their estates. And this was practised formerly in other parts of England likewise. All round hereabouts are little towns
(as also all over this county, Cheshire, and other parts of the north), which give name to considerable families, and are to this
day possessed by persons of their own name. As Ashton of Ashton, Atherton of Atherton, Tildesley of Tildesley, Standish of
Standish, Bold of Bold, Hesket of Hesket, Worthington of Worthington, Torbec of Torbee,” etc.
In 1700 Great Woolden was in possession of Richard Calveley, esq., who sold it to Mr. Poole of
Warrington, by whose heirs it was transferred by sale to the duke of Bridgewater, whose trustees are the
present owners. To this estate are attached 800 acres of land on Chat Moss. On an outhouse near the
hall are the initials “R. C. 1698,” and the arms of Calveley once existed in stained glass in the hall; but
they were, about sixty years ago, transferred to Worsley.
Little Woolden, or Woolden House, is a modern brick mansion, ornamented by a stone castellated
portico, situated at the head of a lawn rising from the river Gless. This estate was also possessed by Richard
Calveley, esq., and sold by him early in the eighteenth century to Mr. Leach of Warrington, by whom it was
1 Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by the Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 49. 8 Wotitia Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 50.
* Placit. de Quo Warranto apud Lanc. 20 Edw. I. Rot. 7 (1292). * Vol. iii. p. 376. Gough's Folio Edition.

596 (Iije Đigturn ºf 3Lantagüirº.
sold to Mr. Kerfoot of the same place, from whose trustees it was purchased by John Arthur Borron, esq.,
one of the magistrates of the county palatine of Lancaster. The ancestors of Mr. Borron were originally of
Rolleston in Staffordshire, but they became settled in Warrington as early as 1632; and the father of Mr.
Borron was the first merchant who ever exported cotton goods from Manchester to Germany, or Russia, upon
his own account. These mercantile adventures took place from 1756 to 1760. Four hundred acres of Chat
Moss are attached to the Little Woolden estate, about one-half of which has been cultivated and planted by
Mr. Borron.
The most striking feature in the parish of Eccles and the township of Barton is Chat Moss, probably a
possession of St. Chad, or Ceadda, bishop of Mercia, seated at Chester, A.D. 669. It was originally an
immense forest, but became reduced to an extensive bog at a remote period. This morass is five miles long
from east to west, and three miles broad from north to south, and contains 6000 acres of land, which is equal
to nearly one-third of the peat soil in the county of Lancaster, the whole extent, including Chat Moss, being
estimated at 20,000 acres. Trees are continually found imbedded in the peat soil, principally birch, Oak, and
fir, as black as jet and as hard as ebony. Most of the trees are charred on the exterior, indicating that they
have fallen under the operation of fire rather than by the stroke of the Woodman : they generally lie in the
direction from W. to E. Amongst other relics of ancient times found in the peat soil is a cow's horn
belonging to a breed of cattle now extinct ; and a leather shoe, nearly perfect, of a singular shape, being five
inches broad at the toe, and not more than one inch and a quarter at the heel; both of which are at Little
Woolden House. In Michael Drayton’s “Faerie Land,” the Irwell, in her contest with the Ribble, is made
to Say—
“Great Chatmosse at my fall,
Lyes full of Turfe and Marle, her Vnctuous Minerall,
And Blocks as blacke as Pitch (with boring Augars found)
There at the generall Flood supposed to be drown'd.”
But the more probable conjecture is, that these mosses have been originally swampy forests. Much variety
of opinion prevails as to the nature and origin of these vast masses of decayed vegetables, and some of the
theories carry their formation as high as the general deluge.” The mosses of Lancashire may be probably
ranked amongst the other vestiges of Roman antiquity. According to Caesar, the ancient Britons, on the
invasion of the Romans, took shelter in the Swamps of the forests; and it is recorded that Agricola, in order
to free himself from the hostile incursions of the native Brigantes, ordered their woods to be burnt down, or
felled by the Roman soldiers. It is clear that the forest of Chateley had disappeared before the Norman
Conquest, since we find from the Domesday Survey, that in the hundred of Salford the woods were only nine
miles and a half in length, and five miles and a quarter in breadth, including the forests of Horwich and
Blackley, which of themselves must have been of that extent. The indigenous plants are the different kinds
of heath, intermixed in the summer with cotton-grass, the bilberry, crowberry, cranberry, Lancashire asphodel,
bog-myrtle, sun-dew, andromeda, or marsh cistus, and the grey-bog moss, Sphagnum palustré. In the Extent
of the manor of Manchester, taken in 15 Edward II. (1322), Chatmoss is described as the soil of the lords
of Barton, Worselegh, Astley, and Bedford. It was then held to possess little goodness in so vast an extent;
all the tenants of the lords had common of turbary there. Describing this extensive bog in the reign of
Henry VIII. Leland says— -
“Chatelay More, in Darbyshire, is a iii or iiii Miles in Bredthe.— Chateley More a vi Miles yn lenght sum ſway] brast up within a
Mile of Morley Haul, and destroied much Grounde with Mosse thereabout, and destroid much fresch Water Fische therabowt, first
corrupting with stinking Water Glasebrooke, and so Glasebrook carried stinking Water and Mosse into Mersey Water, and Marsey
corruptid carried the roulling Mosse part to the shores of Wales, part to the Isle of Man, and sum into Ireland. In the very Toppe of
Chateley More where the Mosse was hyest and brake, is now a fair plaine Valley, as was in tymes paste, and a Rille runnith in hit, and
Peaces of smaul Trees be found in the Botom. Syr John Holcrofte's House within a Mile or more of Morle stoode in jeopardi with
fleting of the Mosse.””
Camden, little less particular, describes the moss in the reign of Elizabeth :—
“Chatmosse, a swampy tract of great extent, a considerable part of which was carried off in the last age by Swoln rivers, with great
danger, whereby the rivers were infected, and great quantities of their fish died. Instead thereof is now a valley watered by a small
stream, and many trees were discovered thrown down and lying flat, so that one may suppose when the ground lay neglected, and the
waste water of brooks was not drained off into the open vallies, or their courses stopt by neglect or desolation, all the lower grounds were
turned into such swamps (which we call Mosses) or into pools.”8
Both these antiquaries speak of the very top of the moss having been reduced by the disruption to a
valley with a rivulet running through its centre, but no man living has any recollection of such an appearance,
and the centre of the moss, when the cultivation was undertaken by Mr. Roscoe about the beginning of the
nineteenth century, under the authority of a grant from Humphrey Trafford, esq., the lord of the soil,
sanctioned by act of parliament, had risen to its former elevation. The drainage for the purposes of
cultivation, and for the passage of the Manchester and Liverpool Railway, has for ever done away with the
danger of a second bursting of the bog, and cattle are now seen daily grazing upon the cultivated part of the
* Leigh's Natural Hist, of Lanc. etc. B. i. p. 59. 2 Itin. vol. vii, fo. 56, p. 46 ; and vol. v. fo. 89, p. 90.
* Brit, vol. iii. p. 376, Gough's Fol. Edit.
#umbret of $alforty--(ſºccles 43arigly, 597
land, while horses, wearing a species of pattens, which in nowise impair their activity when they have become
familiar to them, are engaged in all the usual operations of husbandry. Neither of the venerable antiquaries
just quoted seems ever to have dreamed of moss-cultivation. The first mention we have on this subject is
found in Dr. Leigh's Natural History of Lancashire and Cheshire, published in 1700, in which the doctor says—
“The mosses, which are white, grey, and black, are made arable by draining and marling them, and bring then very good
corn.” As to the mode of cultivation he adds —“They frequently pare off the tops of these mosses with push-ploughs, which
they amass together in small heaps; when they are dry set them on fire, and by the alcalious ashes the ground is made very
fertile, but will not continue so above three years; after that it is very barren. Sometimes in mosses are found human bodies
entire and uncorrupted, as in a moss near the Meols; and in Eller Moss was found the skeleton of a stag standing upon its feet.”
The mode of cultivation suggested by the doctor continues to produce the effect he mentions; by its stimulating influence crops
are obtained for two or three years, after which the land becomes a kind of caput mortuum, but that system is now very generally
discarded upon Chat Moss. The late duke of Bridgewater appears to have been amongst the earliest moss-cultivators in this parish,
but the agricultural improvements of his grace in this direction were not prosecuted with the same vigour as his mining operations;
and the first great effort for the cultivation of Chat Moss was made by William Roscoe, esq., commencing about 1805. Mr. Roscoe,
well aware, from the experience he had had while associated with Mr. Wakefield in reclaiming Trafford Moss, that nothing was to
be done with effect till the land was laid dry, intersected about two thousand acres of Chat Moss with open drains, and under-
drained that part of it which was to be immediately improved. A series of laborious and costly experiments followed, but, from a
variety of adverse circumstances, the success of the undertaking did not realise the expectations of Mr. Roscoe or of the public.
Neither the failure of these operations, nor the extreme depression of agriculture in 1821, discouraged Mr. Edward Baines (the
author of this work) from contracting at that period for about eleven hundred acres of the moss-land then in Mr. James Roscoe's
possession. With strong confidence in the capabilities of the soil under a proper system of husbandry, with the advantages
presented by inland navigation, and, above all, with the town of Manchester—that ample depository of tillage, and that never-
failing market for agricultural produce—within eight miles of the estate, he entered upon the speculation with what he conceived
a well-grounded hope of ultimate success. The management of the estate he confided to Mr. Joseph Nelson, a person of considerable
skill as a planter and practical agriculturist, uniting to the experience of age all the ardour and much of the energy of youth.
Under his superintendence, and that of his successor, about two hundred acres of land, the principal part of which had been in a state of
stagnant sterility for sixteen centuries, were brought into cultivation, and now (1836) yield crops of clover, oats, potatoes, and even
wheat, excellent in quality and not deficient in quantity. The process of cultivation adopted upon this estate consists in sod-
draining the land with close drains, at a distance of six or seven yards from each other, the water from which discharges itself into
open drains made round the fields, and is by that means conveyed into the Irwell. The land thus freed from water is ploughed,
and then covered with a layer of clay dignified with the name of marl, which is found in abundance upon the margin of the estate,
and about eighty tons of this “unctuous mineral” are applied to each statute acre of land. The marl being pulverised by the
weather and spread over the fields, is then again ploughed and harrowed, and after receiving from forty to fifty tons of ashes, etc.,
from the middens of Manchester, the seed is sown at the proper season. This manuring serves for a course of crops, consisting of
potatoes, wheat, clover, and oats, and is not renewed till the second course, while the marl is found almost inexhaustible, though a
thin layer of from forty to fifty tons per acre, by way of renewal, may be advantageously applied at the end of ten or twelve
years. This is the most durable of tillage ; and the observation made by Pliny, that “the effects of marl used as a manure are
found to continue eighty years, and that no man was ever known to have manured the same field with this marl twice in his
lifetime,” though a little exaggerated, approaches pretty nearly to the truth. About 200,000 forest-trees, principally the black
Italian poplar, Scotch firs, and larches, have been planted upon the estate with a fair prospect of success, and it has been ascertained
that fruit-trees, if judiciously treated, become productive in peat soils. The passage of the Liverpool and Manchester Railway
over Chat Moss, as might have been anticipated, had the effect of greatly enhancing the value of the land, and a number of enter-
prising yeomen and others, with Mr. Edward Evans at their head, undertook the reclaiming of many hundred acres of the land
which Mr. Baines had obtained from Mr. Roscoe. These operations, which commenced in 1828, have been upon a large scale, and
about three hundred acres of their portion of the moss have been already (1835) brought into cultivation. A railway, laid in 1833 at
the joint expense of Mr. Baines and Messrs. Evans and Co., intersecting the estate, and passing from the Manchester and Liverpool
Railway, with which it is connected on the north, to the Mersey and Irwell navigation on the south, has given extraordinary
facilities to all the farm operations. Combined with the road is a movable railway, by which manure and marl are conveyed either
from the river-side or from the public railroad to every part of the farm, and the produce brought to the stackyard, or sent to the
market. While these processes have been conducted near the centre of the vast tract of Chat Moss, John Arthur Borron, esq.,
has been carrying on his improvements upon the Woolden allotment, and upon the land which Mr. James Roscoe had partially
cultivated on the eastern side of Chat Moss ; and a number of small moss-farms, recently taken both from Mr. Borron and Mr.
Baines, are now in a course of improvement. The mosses, so long the distinguishing characteristic of the county of Lancaster,
are thus rapidly assuming the air of cultivation ; and with the aid of the Manchester and Liverpool Railway, no doubt can exist,
but that within the short period of one or two generations, Chat Moss will become a cultivated plain, distinguished only by its
vibration under the step, the blackness of its soil, and the heathy margin on its sides. The ancient right of turbary enjoyed by
all the tenants of the lords of the manor is now only partially exercised, and the abundance of pit-coal, with the facilities for its
conveyance, has rendered more substantial fuel so cheap that the privilege has become almost valueless.
The hamlets and villages in the township of Barton consist of Barton, 5 miles W. of Manchester;
Cadishead, 10 miles W.S.S.; Croft's Bank, 6 miles W.S.S.; Davyhulme, 7 miles W.S.W.; Dumplington, 5
miles W.S.W. ; Irlam and Irlam Green, 8 miles W.S.W. ; Monton, 5 miles W. ; Patricroft, 5 miles W. ;
Winton, 5% miles W. ; Eccles, 4 miles W.; Peel Green, 5% miles W.; Lostock and Wilderspool, each 5 miles
W. of Manchester. -
The Barton-upon-Irwell Poor-Law Union comprises six townships—viz. Barton-upon-Irwell, Clifton,
Flixton, Stretford, Urmston, and Worsley. Total area, 23,279 statute acres. Population in 1861, 39,038.
The Board (of 13 guardians) meets every other Monday at the offices in the Union Workhouse, Patricroft,
near Eccles.
THE WORKHOUSE OF THE BARTON UNION.—-Dr. Edward Smith reports as follows to the Poor-Law Board on the arrangements
for the cure and treatment of the sick in this workhouse —Mr. Cane and I inspected this workhouse on 4th October 1866. It is
situate in one of the suburbs of Manchester. The body of the workhouse is comparatively new, and the old workhouse is now used
as the infirmary. The infirmary is old, and the rooms are very low, but with the great cleanliness which is maintained, and the
* Probably an abridgment, of Withington, the dwelling by the and two brothers, Alexander and Michael M*Keand, linen and tea
withies or willows. In this village, at a public-house, “The Jolly hawkers, were convicted of the murder and hanged at Lancaster on
Carters,” Elizabeth Bates, aged 28, was murdered May 22, 1826, the 8th August in that year. -
598 The #istory of Lancashire.
intelligence of the managers, there is an air of comfort in them. In some parts there are external windows on the opposite sides of
the ward ; whilst in the greater part there is a side corridor, and the wards which lead therefrom have external windows on one side
only. There is also a projecting suite of one-storeyed rooms, which have windows on one side only. The general sick are not divided
into medical and Surgical cases. Cases of fever are placed in one of the rooms in the infirmary, or in the low and unsuitable rooms
just referred to. Itch cases are also placed in one of the latter series of rooms. The floors of the rooms on the ground-floor are of
stone. There is a day-room. The bedsteads are of iron, with iron laths, and some have racks at the head, whilst others are proper
fracture-beds. The beds are of straw, well filled, or of flock laid upon a straw bed or mattress. There are chairs with or without
cushions, benches, tables, night-stools, prints, a looking-glass, a few books, metal wash-hand basins, combs, screen, cocoa matting,
and flowers in the wards; and each sick inmate lying in bed has a separate towel. There are pottery plates, and pottery as well as
tin mugs. The food is at present carried in uncovered trays; but a new system is about to be adopted. In some wards there is a
stove, whilst in others there is an open fireplace. The ventilation is mainly dependent upon the windows; and, as the building is
old, the doors and windows do not fit very closely. Some of the windows have a small part which opens, whilst in others the lead
lights open in a large piece to the bottom vertically. There are also tubes leading into the ceiling or roof, and Sir John Walsham's
tubes, besides openings over some of the doors, and protected air-bricks in the walls. Some of the rooms, and particularly the unfit
fever wards, are ill ventilated. There was a foul drain smell in the wash-house. There is one paid nurse for all the sick, and she
administers all medicines and stimulants. She finds many of the pauper nurses very reliable and valuable. There are usually,
perhaps, three cases which require attention at night, and the pauper attendants, who sleep in the rooms with them, call her when
necessary. She receives £18 per year. I had not the advantage of conferring with the medical officer.
PENDLETON.—This township, anciently called Pen-hulton [i.e., the head hilltown], in the parish of Eccles,
was held by the Hultons of Hulton, by the service of one-sixth part of a knight's fee, at first under the Earls
Ferrers, but afterwards in chief of the king, as appears from several records in the Testa de Nevill." Jornechio de
Hulton, in 1 John, exchanged the wood of Barton and the wood of Kereshall for the village of Penelton. From
a suit instituted at Lancaster, 12 Edward I. (1284), before Hugh Cressingham and other justices itinerant,
wherein the jury of Rageman made a presentment, it appears that Robert de Ferrariis gave to the prior of St.
Thomas, near Stafford, in pure and perpetual alms, 18 messuages, 12 bovates, six times twenty acres of land,
one toft and one mill in Penilton, which used to be held of the king in chief, by the service of the sixth part
of one knight's fee.” And by the Act of Resumption, in 4 Edward IV. (1464), an annuity of ten pounds was
secured to Thomas Longley, granted by letters patent on farms in Pennylton, and pastures called Bryndlach
and Wyndelhey, and the sum of 100s, granted to Thomas Leygh of the Bothes, by letters patent." In the
Bag of Lancashire Fines in the Chapter-House at Westminster, we find, in 7 Edward III. (1333), that Henry
de Mounton and Alicia his wife, of Mounton, in this parish, fined to Henry, the son of John Gonyn, for
messuages, lands, and tenements, in the vill of Penhulton, in Salfordshire. In 1595, Othes or Otho Holland,
gent., occupied a house, probably the Old Hall in Pendleton. In the next reign it was the residence of Thomas
Holland, his son, who married at Eccles, 7th February 1622, Mrs. Joan Irlam. Thomas, earl of Lancaster, in
13 Edward II. (1319-20), granted lands and tenements in “le Hope,” juxta Manchester, together with the
bailiwick of Salfordshire, to Sir Robert de Holland and Matilda his wife.” In 1595, Hope Hall is mentioned
as an ancient house. This mansion was rebuilt in the eighteenth century, and has been occupied successively
by Thomas Butterworth Bayley, esq., Edward Hobson, esq., and Sir Elkanah Armitage, knight. The township,
which is situated at the junction of the Liverpool and Bolton road to Manchester, and which was little more
than a fold of cottages, with its Maypole and its green, in 1780, is now an opulent and extensive suburb of
Salford, abounding in mansions, and containing large calico-printing, dyeing, cotton-spinning, and coal works.
Mr. Whitaker contends that Hylewood, an oblong hillock in this township, exhibits marks of a Roman camp;
but subsequent examination in digging the foundation of Hylewood Tower has shown that this eminence
consists merely of the red rocky sandstone of the district. Pendleton is now a district chapelry, and a perpetual
curacy. The chapel or church of St. Thomas was built in 1776, and rebuilt in 1831; the Rev. Ambrose Lane
(1834) is the incumbent. The living is valued at £427. Patron, the vicar of Eccles. The church has 1220
sittings, of which 407 are free. Connected with it are two boys', one girls', and two infant schools. Pendleton
forms a district of the municipal and parliamentary borough of Salford, and a description of its town-hall
will be found page 382, Supra. -
PENDLEBURY.—In the reign of Edward I. the possessions of the Hultons extended to Pendlebury as well
as to Pendleton. Of Marferth de Hulton, mentioned as holding four bovates of land in Pennelton, Elyas de
Pennilbury held one bovate for four shillings." The same proprietor also held in chief nine bovates of land
in Pennilbury and in Chadeswrthe in thanage for twelve shillings; and Richard, Adam, Henry, and Robert,
grandsons of Elyas, held one bovate of him for two shillings." Adam de Pendulbury, a proprietor of the local
family, occurs as early as Henry I., when Richard de Workedley, the son of Elias Gigas, gave him lands in
Penulbury. In 10 Edward II. (1316–17), we find Alicia de Prestwich held one bovate in Penulbury by the
payment of ten shillings per annum for all services. This property came by marriage to the Langleys of
Prestwich, and afterwards to the Daunteseys of Agecroft, as stated in the history of Prestwich parish. In
1 Edward III. (1327), Richard de Longley, and Johanna, Joan, or Jane,” his wife, paid a fine to William de
Longley, parson of the church of Myddilton, for the manor of Pennylbury, and messuages and lands in Burghton,
1 Folio 397, 405, 408. 6 Testa de Wevill, fol. 405. In Birch’s MS. Feodarium he is said
* Rot. Chart. 1 Johan. p. 1, mem. 3. to hold of Yarferth de Hilton two bovates for 3s. 7 Ibid.
* Placit. de Quo Warr. apud Lanc. 20 Edw. I. Rot. 12 d. 8 The Court of King's Bench decided, in 32 Elizabeth (1590),
4 Rot. Parl, vol. v. p. 547. that Johanna, Latin, Joan and Jane, were one name.—Camden's
* Cart, in Turre Londin. - Remains, p. 98.
#umbret of Šalfort—(£ccles arisiſ. - 599
Chetham, Crompton, Oldham, and Berwych." When Leland made his tour in the reign of Henry VIII.,
Agecroft Hall was the residence of Mr. Langford; “and there,” says the itinerant, “is a Bridge veri hy and
great of Tymbre on Irwel, and thereby is Pilketon Park, and thereon is a stone house of the Pylketons, attaynted
by King Henry the VII. and given to the Lorde of Darby. And within a ii Miles of Morle on the left Hond,
not far of a Place of Master Worseley of the Bouthe.” The manor of Pendlebury passed by marriage into
the hands of Sir Edward Coke's fifth son, and was sold by the present Mr. Coke of Norfolk, along with the
manor of Prestwich, to Peter Drinkwater, esq., father of the present possessor, Thomas Drinkwater of Irwell
House, esq. -
Rºn Hall is a large wood-and-plaster erection, of the age of Elizabeth, on an eminence overlooking
the course of the Irwell. It is quadrangular in form, and originally had a moat. In the centre of the edifice
is a courtyard, entered from the front by a covered archway. This hall was successively the residence of the
knightly family of Langley, from whom it passed to the Daunteseys by the marriage of William to Anne, the
eldest daughter of Sir Robert Langley, in 1561 (the year after her father's death); and on the failure of that
family, at the end of the last century, came into the possession of the late Rev. Richard Buck, whose brother
John, the present occupier of Agecroft Hall, and the owner of the estate, recently took the name of Dauntesey
(1867). The windows are ornamented with stained glass, exhibiting the arms and crests of the Langleys;
the armorial bearings of John of Gaunt, and emblems of Henry II. The hall is liberally adorned by carved
work, and rendered increasingly interesting by its antique furniture. The room now used as a library was a
domestic chapel in the reign of Elizabeth. In 1867 the hall underwent considerable repairs and alterations.
Adjoining to the township of Pendlebury, but within the limits of Worsley, is a place called “Pendlebury
Chapel,” without any chapel, or even the remains of any such edifice. Irlam's-o'-th'-Height is in this township.
The limits of Pendlebury do not appear to have been very accurately defined, for while “Pendlebury Chapel.”
is in the township of Worsley, a portion of the township of Pendlebury lies insulated on the banks of the
Irwell, and locally within the township of Pendleton. There are now two episcopal chapels, or churches, in
Pendlebury—St. John's, Irlam's-o'-th'-Height, erected in 1842, forming a parliamentary district and a perpetual
curacy; the living, value £240, vested in five patrons; incumbent, Rev. E. H. Robson (1856); the church has
602 sittings, of which 234 are free, and connected with it are a boys' school and an infants’ school; and
Christ Church, Pendlebury, a consolidated chapelry and perpetual curacy, value £219; patron, the bishop;
the Rev. A. Dewes (1859), incumbent ; the church has 560 sittings, of which 180 are free, and connected with
it are a girls' school and an infants' school.
CLIFTON.—In the reign of Henry VII, the Hollands (the Denton and Clifton branches having descended
from those of Up-Holland) were seised of the manor of Clyfton, in Salfordshire, with messuages, lands, mills,
and Woods, in Manchester and Swynton, as appears by inquisitions, on the deaths of William Holland the
father, and William Holland the son.” It also appears that this family had property in the parish as early
as the 19 Edward II. (1325-6), from an inquisition on the death of Joan, wife of William Multon, late wife
of William Holland, which enumerates “Barton juxta Manchester and Swynton juxta le Hope.” In 11
James I. (1613), Ellinor Slade is found as lady of the manor of Clifton, with messuages, lands, and other
property, in Swinton, Manchester, Leyland, and Farrington.” This lady was the daughter of Thomas Holland
of Clifton, and Hellen, the daughter of Thomas Langley of Agecroft. By her he had one daughter, Ellinor,
and three sons. The elder son died without issue, as probably did the other two. Ellinor Holland married
Ralph Slade, esq., who also died without issue. On failure of issue in this branch, the estate was sold to the
Gaskells, and Benjamin Gaskell of Thornes House, esq., in the county of York, is the present proprietor.
Clifton Hall is a plain but handsome edifice. The manor did not pass with the mansion, but became the
property of the Heathcotes, and Sir Henry H. Heathcote, bart., is now lord of Clifton. Formerly a court-
leet was held here by the Hollands, but it is now discontinued. Wood Yate in this township had the honour
to give birth to Robert Ainsworth, the Latin lexicographer. The Manchester, Bolton, and Bury Canal passes
over the Irwell by a lofty brick aqueduct, in this township, which abounds with coal. Owing to the
mountain streams and the crook of the Irwell, in Pendleton, this river is very subject to overflow its banks
in the lordship of Clifton; and Mr. Rasbotham, in his M.S. notes, made about 1786, says—
“The floods frequently rise to the height of sixteen feet above the surface of the common water. In 1744, the Irwell
Overflowed to within a few inches of twenty-four feet; and, about twenty years ago, there were three floods in two years, which rose
a few inches more than twenty-four feet above the common level. The river hath trout, shoulders, chubs, dace, gudgeons, and eels.
Salmon came up it before the establishment of the fishery at Warrington (till within the last twenty years) higher than this
township ; but there is no such thing experienced at present.”"
WORSLEY.—One of our earliest crusaders, Elias, or Elizeus, the founder of the family of Worsley, is said
to have held the manor of Workeslegh, or Workedlegh, as early as the Conquest. Of this person we have
the following account in Hopkinson's MS. Pedigrees of the North Riding of Yorkshire:–
* Bag of Lanc. Ped. Finium, in the Chapter-House, Westminster. * Escaet. 19 Edw. II. num. 96.
* Duchy Records, vol. i. 21 Hen. VII. n. 14 and 16. * Duchy Records, vol. xxiii. n. 75.
* Ibid. Vol. iv. 14 Hen. VII. n. 49. - - - - - * Collections, vol. i. p. 40.
600 (The #igturn of 3Lantagjire.
“This Elias was seised of the manor of Workesley, now Worsley, about the Norman Conquest, A*. 1066. He was of such
strength and valour that he was reputed a Giant, and in old Scripts is often called Elias Gigas. He fought many duells, combats,
etc., for the love of our Saviour Jesus Christ, and obtained many victories.” Another account adds, that he died at Rhodes, and
lies there buried.” His son and heir, Richard Workedeley, or Workerdeley, gave to Adam de Penulbury lands in Penulbury
and North Deyne, with the pasture of Swinton, by deeds Sans date.” From him descended Richard, son of Geoffrey de Workedley,
in 5 Richard I. (1194), one of the feodaries under Gilbert de Notton. The avaricious grasp of the priests had deprived Oliua de
Boulton, daughter of Geoffrey de Byron, of her privilege of pasture on Swinton Common, in the township of Worsley. The claim
of this lady was too clear to be surrendered without a struggle; and in 20 Edward I. (1292) she sued the abbot of Stanlawe at
Lancaster, for the recovery of her common of pasture in Swynton, which was appurtenant to her free tenements of Workesley, and
of which the abbot had unjustly dispossessed her. The jurors found that John de Workesley, who had enfeoffed Oliua with the
tenements and their appurtenances in Workesley, was accustomed to pasture his cattle on the common, at the same time that her
father, Geoffrey de Byron, formerly lord of Swynton, exercised the same right; that the same Geoffrey had afterwards given his
tenement at Swynton to the abbey of Stanlawe in perpetual alms, and that the abbot and his people had then obstructed John de
Workesley in his common of pasture, but had subsequently granted him permission to enjoy that common ; and that Oliua de
Boulton was in seisin of the common of pasture, John de Workesley having conveyed to her his tenements in Workesley, with
their appurtenances, of which the abbot and the other defendants had unjustly disseised her. The verdict was, that the aforesaid
Oliua should recover her seisin, and the defendants were cast in damages of 600 marks (£400).4 From the time of Elias de
Workesley the crusader, the manor of that name remained in the family until about the 46 Edward III. (1372), when Alice, the
sister and sole heiress of Sir Geoffrey Worsley, of the eleventh generation from the grantor, conveyed it by marriage to Sir John
Massey of Tatton, who, with Thomas, his eldest son by this marriage, was attainted in 1 Henry IV. (1400). In the same year Robert
de Workysley, half-brother of Sir Geoffrey Massey, presented a petition to the king and council, preferring claims to the estate and
manor of Worsley." . Sir Geoffrey Massey, knight, however, seems to have succeeded in right of his mother. He married Margaret,
daughter of John Hulton of Farnworth; but dying withoutissue at the age of seventy, in October 1457, he was succeeded by his nephew
William Massey, son of Richard, a younger brother of Sir Geoffrey. This William, by his wife, a daughter of Sir Geoffrey Warburton,
left three sons; the eldest, Sir Geoffrey," succeeded, having married in 1453 Isabel, daughter of Sir John Butler of Bewsey; their
only child and heiress, Joan or Jane, married William, Son and heir of Sir William Stanley, knight, of Holt Castle, Derbyshire, and
took the manor and estates to him. William Stanley died about the 14th Henry VII. (1499), leaving a daughter, Joan, who married,
first, Thomas Ashton of Ashton-upon-Mersey, and secondly, Sir Richard Brereton, a younger son of Sir Randle Brereton of Malpas.
Sir Richard's eldest son dying without issue, about 4 Edward VI. (1550), Worsley and the other estates became the property of
Geoffrey, his second son, who had an only son, Richard Brereton. This last married, in 1572, Dorothy, the daughter of Sir Richard
Egerton of Tatton, who had also a natural son, the celebrated Sir Thomas Egerton, lord high chancellor, and Wiscount Brackley;
Richard Brereton died without surviving issue, 17th December 1598, settling all his estates upon his wife's half-brother Sir Thomas
Egerton. His eldest surviving son, John, was created in May 1617 (six months after his father's death) earl of Bridgewater. He married
Frances, second daughter and co-heiress of Ferdinand Stanley, fifth earl of Derby, by whom he had four sons and ten daughters.
The two eldest sons died young; the third, John, succeeded his father as second earl of Bridgewater; his eldest son John, was also
succeeded by his third son, Scroope Egerton, fourth earl, who married, first, Elizabeth, daughter of the duke of Marlborough, and
secondly, Rachel, daughter of the duke of Bedford. This earl, who is said to have entertained some intention of originating inland
navigation on his Lancashire estates—which, however, he did not bring to any practical result—was created marquis of Brackley
and duke of Bridgewater in 1720, and died in 1744. His eldest son John, the second duke, having died unmarried, was succeeded
by his brother Francis, the third duke of Bridgewater, so famous in the history of the inland navigation of this county, who dying
unmarried on the 9th of March 1803, the title became extinct. The earldom of Bridgewater descended to General John William
Egerton, the seventh earl, grandson of Dr. Henry Egerton, bishop of Hereford, to whom the duke bequeathed Ashbridge, in Hert-
fordshire, with the rest of the family estates in Bucks, Salop, and Yorkshire, of the value of about £30,000 a-year. The houses,
plate, and pictures, valued at £150,000, he bequeathed to his nephew, Earl Gower (subsequently marquis of Stafford, and afterwards
duke of Sutherland), together with his canal property in Lancashire, with remainder to his second son, Lord Francis Leveson
Gower. The duke of Sutherland and marquis of Stafford, the principal proprietor of the manor, coal-mines, and canals of Worsley,
died on the 19th July 1833, and was succeeded in the manor and the estates by Lord Francis Egerton, created earl of Ellesmere in
1846. He died February 18, 1857, and was succeeded by his eldest son, George Granville Francis, Wiscount Brackley, the second
earl. He died in 1862, and his eldest son, Francis Charles Granville Egerton, the present and third earl, born in 1847, is a minor
(1867). On the death of the seventh earl of Bridgewater, he was succeeded by his brother, the Honourable and Reverend Francis
Henry Egerton, the eighth earl, since deceased. In the reign of Elizabeth, Sir Robert Worsley was deputy-lieutenant for the county
of Lancaster, as appears from an original roll, or “Sertifeceit of Sir Robert Worsely, knt. &c., within the Hundredthe of Salford,
to their verey good Lordes of the Queenes Majesties Privey Councell,” preserved in the British Museum." Another branch of this
family settled at Worsley Meyne, near Wigan, of whom, according to an epitaph of St. Mary's, Chester, was Ralph Worsley, esq.,
yeoman of the wardrobe to Henry VIII.,8 who appointed him, towards the latter end of his life, to the wardenship of the Tower.
The Worsleys of Manchester formed a third branch, from whom descended Ralph Worsley of Platt in Withington, esq. By his
“l Fol. 483.
* Kimber's Baron, vol. i. p. 84. Lanc. Famil. MS.
* North R. Pedig. fol. 483.
* Placita de Assis, et Jurai. MS. fol. 13.
* Roſſ. Parl, vol. iii. p. 445, no. 158. The following is an ancient
description of the boundaries of the manor of Worsley —“Beginning
at the Byrchynshawghe [the little birch-wood], following thence to
the poles [.. pales] of Barton ; and from the poles of Barton following
up the brook into Maunton Mill-dam ; and from the mill-dam into
the Hope-hey ; and from thence following up Hen-dene (the hanging
hollow or dell) to Nor-dene brook (the north dell brook); and from
thence to the Fermer-Stoke [? the slender stake], to the Tynden-oke
[? the enclosure or hedge oak] of Norden; and from thence following
up into the White Moss, to Rodenhurst (the cleared grove, or the
grove of the rood or cross); and from thence to the hills of Kersley;
and from thence into the ground (bed or bank) of the Irwell; and
so following up Walk-den brook to the Oller, and so up into the
Reed Mysies [? reedy mosses]; and so following up between the
High Field and Hulton, into Cokeridlache (the clayey mire or
swampy bottom), the meyre [bound] between Hulton, and so
straight even to the Bastard Stone ; and from thence following up
the Eves (borders) of Hulton, into Ilyngbrook (Ellenbrook) into the
Black Brook (now the Stirrup Brook) of Mokens (Malkins: there is
still a Malkin's Wood farm), between the parishes of Eccles and
Leigh ; and so following up the meyres (bounds) of Woldene
(Woolden, the wolf’s dell) and Cadewalshede (Cadwall’s head, now
Cadishead), and Irwilham (Irlam), and Barton; and so again into
Byrchynshawghe.” These boundaries seem to be in many respects”
conterminous with those of the old parish of Eccles. The Ellen (or
elder-tree) brook, near the little chapel, forms a natural boundary
or division between three townships (Hulton, Tildesley, and Worsley),
between three parishes (Leigh, Dean, and Eccles), and between the
two hundreds of Salford and West Derby.—H.
* By an inquisition of 14 Hen. VII. (1498-99), preserved in the
Duchy Office, this Sir Geoffrey Massey is found to have died about
this time, seised of the manor of Workeslegh by knight's service and
an annual render of 10s.-(Duchy Records, vol. iii. n. 68.) By
another inquisition in 15 Hen. VII. (1499-1500), Robert Workesley,
a descendant of the younger branch, was found to hold the mesne
manor of Boothes, the manor of Workesley. —(Ibid, n. 50.)
7 Harl. MSS. codex 309, fo. 143.
8 “Pagettus garderobae robarum.”
#umbren of $alford—(£ccles. 33arigly. 601
first wife, Isabel, daughter of Edward Massy of Manchester, esq., he had Charles Worsley, who was so active a partizan in the
civil wars, that Oliver Cromwell appointed him major-general for the county of Lancaster."
There have been three edifices bearing the name of Worsley Hall. That Worsley Hall which was the
seat of the late Robert Haldane Bradshaw, esq., was a mansion of brick, erected on an elevated situation,
which not only overlooked the extensive park-like grounds of Worsley, but commanded a view of seven
counties. This house was built by Francis, duke of Bridgewater, about the middle of the last century, when
the old hall and ancient manor-house was abandoned. Lord Francis Egerton, on succeeding to the estates,
replaced it with a noble mansion of stone in the late Tudor style of architecture, to which additions have
been made since his death, and it is now the residence of the earl and his family; the Hon. Algernon Egerton,
a brother of the first earl, and the principal trustee of the Bridgewater trust, residing at the old hall. The
old hall, seated at the northern extremities of the gardens of the modern mansion, is constructed partly of
wood and plaster, with pointed gables, and partly of brick. This house, the successive residence of the
Worsleys, the Masseys, the Stanleys, the Breretons, and the Egertons, is now remarkable as the depository
of a series of spirited, grotesque, and allegorical heads, with an intermixture of ornamental devices, engraved
in oaken panels, and brought, within the present century, from one of the state-rooms of Hulme Hall,
Manchester, one of the manorial mansions of the Prestwiches. Many of the sculptured heads represent the
domestic buffoons of the sixteenth century, to which period this sculpture is to be referred. Others are sug-
gested by the religious mysteries which formed in early times such inexhaustible subjects for the painter
and the sculptor. These heads much resemble those carved images seen so frequently in the choirs of eccle-
siastical buildings, which, from their satirical caricatures of the monastic orders, or regular clergy, seem to have
been executed under the direction of their rivals, the secular clergy. The costumes appear to be mostly of
the fashion of the reigns of Henry VII. and Henry VIII. : as one of the panels represents the eagle and
child, the Stanley crest, it is not improbable that they were executed under the Order of one of the James
Stanleys, wardens of Manchester College from 1506 to 1515; and they may have been intended for that
church, but placed in Hulme Hall for security, in the agitated times of the Reformation. There are preserved
at Worsley new Hall Roman antiquities discovered from time to time in Castle Field, including a small stone
altar. Courts-baron for the manor of Worsley are held at Easter and Michaelmas in every year. In virtue
of the manorial rights, and free-holders' claims, one thousand acres of Chatmoss belong to Worsley.
Another of the ancient mansions of Worsley is a brick, wood, and plaster building, called Kempnall,
Kempnough, or Kempenhalgh Hall, adorned by two gates, now in decay, and the house, etc., occupied as a
farm, the property of L. G. N. Starkie of Huntroyd, esq., and said to have been the residence of Nicholas
Starkie, esq., in 1594, when his family was under the supposed visitation of demoniacal possession. Helen,
daughter and heiress of Richard Worsley, esq. of Kempnall, conveyed the estate in marriage to Richard
Parr, gentleman, in the early part of the fifteenth century; and it again passed in marriage in 1578 with Anne,
daughter and heiress of Mr. John Parr of Kempnough (also of Cleworth Hall in Tildesley, and Snidale Hall
in Westhoughton, and widow of Thurstan, son of Andrew Barton of Smithells, esq.), to Nicholas Starkie of
Huntroyd, esq., who lived here in 1594. It was also the seat of his eldest son in the next generation,
whose children were baptized at the parish church of Eccles.” To the east of Kempnall is the ancient pile
of Wardley Hall, apparently of the age of Edward VI., situated in the midst of a small woody glade, and
probably built on the site of an older house, which was originally surrounded by a moat, except on the
eastern side. This edifice is of a quadrangular form, consisting of ornamented wood and plaster frames, inter-
lined with bricks, and entered by a gate-house opening into a courtyard in the centre. Like so many of
the manor-houses of the same age in Lancashire, one part is occupied as a farm-house. In the room called
the hall is the coat of arms (in a frame) of the Downes family: a stag couchant, within the shield; crest,
a stag's head. The room has an ornamented wainscot, and fluted roof of oak. The stairs and hall are fine
and capacious. The chimneys are clustered. This place became the property and residence of Thurstan
Tildesley, by marriage with Margaret, daughter and heiress of Jordan Worsley, in the reign of Henry IV.,
and the Tildesleys settled here before they occupied Morley. On the eve of the civil wars Wardley was
quitted by the Tildesleys, and became the residence of Roger Downes, esq., whose son John married
Penelope, daughter of Sir Cecil Trafford, knt., who, endeavouring to convert Mr. Downes to Protestantism,
became himself a Catholic. The issue of that marriage was Roger Downes, son and heir, and an only daughter,
named Penelope after her mother, which lady married Richard, fourth Earl Rivers, a rake, a warrior, and a
statesman. Roger Downes, in the licentious spirit of the age, having abandoned himself to vicious courses,
was killed by a watchman in a fray at Epsom Wells, June 1676, and dying without issue the estate was con-
veyed by his sister to Earl Rivers, who died without male issue in 1712, and the family quitted Wardley.”
1 Harl. Coll. codex 2100, fo. 32. Familiae Lancastr. MSS. when, sallying forth, he ran his sword through a poor tailor. Soon
“Worsley of Manchester.” after this, being in a riot, a watchman made a stroke at him with
2 Woffitia, Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 53. his bill, which severed his head from his body, and the skull was
* This is the Roger Downes of whom Lucas speaks, when he says, inclosed in a box, and sent to his sister, who lived at Wardley Hall.
that, according to tradition, while in London, in a drunken frolic he “The skull,” adds the narrator, “ has been kept at Wardley ever
vowed to his companions that he would kill the first man he met ; since, and many superstitious notions are entertained concerning it,
4 H
602 (ſiſt #istorg of 3Lancashire,
which is now the property of the earl of Ellesmere. Booths Hall, in Worsley, was formerly a seat of a branch
of the Worsleys, of which family was Robert de Worsley, Lord of Boothes about 1292, and Robert Worsley, who
held the manor of Boothes of the manor of Worsley, 15 Henry VII. (1499-1500). Leland, in 1549, speaks
of “a place of Master Worseley of the Bouthe.” The Worsleys resided here in the early part of the
seventeenth century, and were afterwards of Hovingham, Co. York. The manor and hall of Booths were
settled by act of parliament about 1789, in exchange for other lands, upon the younger children of Samuel
Clowes of Manchester, esq., and his wife Martha, daughter of John Tipping of Manchester, merchant. The
estate is now vested in the Egerton family. The house is of plain stone and devoid of inhabitant." The
township of Worsley is little inferior in extent, and not at all inferior in interest, to the township of Barton.
The public spirit, skill, and perseverance exerted by the great duke of Bridgewater, have elevated this place
to a distinguished eminence amongst the townships of Lancashire. If Manchester be the centre of the inland
navigation of the north of England, it is indebted more to the duke of Bridgewater than to any other person
for that distinction, and Worsley is the place from which the first lines were drawn to form that centre. The
stupendous works in this township, visible and invisible, exhibit a degree of mechanical skill and of indi-
vidual capital and enterprise, unparalleled perhaps in the history of this country. Of the duke's canal
navigation we have already spoken, but it may be proper to observe, that his father, Scroope Egerton, the
first duke of Bridgewater, was the original projector of the canal from Worsley to Manchester, and not, as is
generally supposed, Francis, the last duke. In furtherance of this object, the latter procured an act of
parliament, passed 10 George II. (1737), entitled “An Act for making navigable the river or brook called
Worsley Brook from Worsley Mills, in the township of Worsley, in the county palatine of Lancaster, to the
river Irwell in the said county.” It was not, however, till the time of the last duke that any effectual steps
were taken towards the execution of this long-projected work, when an act was obtained in 1758 with more
full powers, to enable the Most Noble Francis, duke of Bridgewater, to make a navigable cut or canal from a
cut or place in the township of Salford to or near Worsley Mills and Middlewood, and to and near a place
called Hollins Ferry, in the county palatine of Lancaster. This was followed by another act, passed in the
same year, to enable the duke to carry his canal over the Irwell. A third act, passed in 1761, enabled him
to cut his canal from Manchester to Runcorn ; and a fourth, in 1795, to extend his navigation from Worsley
to Leigh. Some account of these immense works has already been given, and it may be sufficient in this
place to add, that the aqueduct at Barton over the valley of the Irwell, constructed under the direction of
Messrs. Brindley and Gilbert, is 200 yards in length and 12 yards in width, sustained by a bridge of three
arches, the centre being a span of 63 feet. At the time when the duke began his works, he possessed only
such coal-mines as belonged to the entailed estate round Worsley Hall, but subsequently he purchased the
additional coal-mines which run under the high ground between Worsley, Bolton, and Bury.” Both the
hereditary and the purchased mines are worked upon two levels, a higher and a lower level, as they proceed
in various directions, and they complete 33% miles of subterraneous navigable canal, measuring from the
mouth of the tunnel, locally called “The Levels,” at Worsley. The upper line is 35% yards of perpendicular
height above the level, and from 38 to 61 yards below the surface of the extreme ground, while the lower is
upon a level with the canal in the open air. The two levels were subsequently united by an inclined plane,
which was commenced in September 1795, under the direction of Mr. Gilbert, long after the death of Mr.
Brindley. It is remarkable that the two persons principally employed in conducting the works of the duke
of Bridgewater were self-taught geniuses. Brindley was brought up as a wheelwright, and had shown his
skill in improving the silk-mill at Congleton. When he first entered the duke's service, he required only
half-a-crown a day for his skill and labour; and contracted, or rather offered to contract, to serve for three
years at the rate of one guinea per week. When any difficulty occurred, which he could not easily overcome,
he was accustomcd to take to his bed, and to remain without interruption till he had devised means for
accomplishing his object. He was so extremely illiterate, that he could neither write nor read, so that his
plans were generally sketched with chalk upon the floor.” Mr. John Gilbert was originally in the employ-
ment, and domesticated with, the duke of Bridgewater. He lived in his house at Worsley, was always with
his grace in the country, and was privy to all his plans and projects. To his skill and judgment the duke
was principally indebted for the construction of Barton aqueduct; commenced in September 1760, and com-
pleted in July 17, 1761, from which Mr. Brindley had fled in despair.” Justice requires that these facts
not worth repeating.”—Lucas M.S. fol. 101. Mr. Roby, in his * The Hon. and Rev. Francis Henry Egerton on Canal Navigation,
very ingenious and entertaining “Traditions of Lancashire,” has
wrought these incidents into a pathetic story, under the title of the
“Skull House.”
* Notitia, Cestriensis. Note by Rev. Canon Raines, ii. 51.
* In a singular and rare publication, issued at Paris by the Hon.
and Rev. Francis Henry Egerton in 1820, it is said that “the pro-
ject of a canal from Worsley to Manchester had always been in idea
from the time of William of Worsley” (Sir William Egerton).
8 Several new pits are now being sunk, and others carried to a
lower level and a richer seam of coal (Feb. 1868). Tramways are
also being laid from various pits to the canal at Worsley.—H.
p. 94. This observation applies probably to the time when he first en-
tered into the service of the duke. According to the same authority,
Mr. Brindley was at first of sober and temperate habits, but he de-
generated into luxurious living, and did not cease from eating at
meals till a certain button on his waistcoat began to pinch his
stomach. He died September 27, 1772. For interesting particulars
of Brindley see the life of this engineer by Samuel Smiles.
* In the Hon. and Rev. Francis Egerton's Letter to the Parisians,
speaking of his own knowledge, he says:–“ Of Barton bridge
[aqueduct] over the Irwell, when it was erecting, Mr. Brindley.
thought it would fail, and ran away from it to Stretford, whence he
#umbret of Šalforn—(£ccles parish. 603
should be represented, not to detract unduly from the reputation of Mr. Brindley, but to raise that of Mr.
Gilbert to the proper elevation. -
In 1863 the new parish of WORSLEY was carved out of the old parish of Eccles. It is not so large as
the township of Worsley, as part of that township is included in the new parish of Walkden Moor. The new
(Blandford) parish of Worsley has an area of about four square miles, and had a population (in 1861) of
about 3600. It includes Worsley village, church, the old and new halls and grounds, Ellenbrook and chapel,
Booths Hall and Booths Town, Roe Green and Wardley Hall, and, in short, a great tract of the Worsley
estates, of which a large northerly portion also goes to form the parish of Walkden Moor. St. Mark's
Church, Worsley, built at the cost of Lord and Lady Ellesmere, in 1846, became the parish church of the
new parish; and the Rev. St. Vincent Beechey (1850) the vicar. This living is valued at £200, and is in the
patronage of the earl of Ellesmere. The church has 800 sittings, of which 200 are free. There are a day-
school for boys, another for girls, and five for infants, in the new parish.
ELLENBROOK CHAPEL, in the parish of Worsley, was originally founded, it is supposed, by the monks of
Whalley, for their tenantry in Worsley and the neighbourhood, distant from their parish church of Eccles.
After the Reformation it was purchased by the Breretons, then lords of Worsley, and was endowed, in 1581,
by Dorothy, wife of Sir Richard Brereton of Worsley. In 1655 the chapel was regarded as a domestic
chapel of Worsley Hall. The oldest building on the site was very small. It has been repeatedly rebuilt
and enlarged; the last time by the second earl of Ellesmere, 1862-3; who (dying September 19, 1862) did
not live to see its completion. These restorations include a chancel-recess, with three memorial windows of
stained glass, a new vestry, new open timbered roof, open seats, new entrance, etc. A new organ was also
presented to the chapel by a number of the earl's tenants and other residents in the neighbourhood; and the
chapel was reopened for service in August 1863. The living is styled a “Donative,” and is a conventional
district, the Rev. St. Vincent Beechey, vicar of Worsley, being the incumbent ; and there is a curate here.
The population of the hamlet is about 1400, the value of the living £175, in the patronage and presentation
of the earl of Ellesmere. The chapel has 500 sittings, of which 175 are free.
Of the new parish of WALKDEN MOOR, of which St. Paul's Church, erected by the first earl of Elles-
mere in 1838, is the parish church, the population (in 1861) was about 6000. The vicar is the Rev. J.
Herbert (1861); the value of the living £160, and it is in the patronage of the earl of Ellesmere. The
church has 700 sittings, all free. It possesses the old organ from Eccles' church, that which cost £500 in
1813. There are also day-schools for boys, girls, and infants.
It remains only to enumerate the villages and hamlets in the township of Worsley, and shortly to
describe the agriculture and geology of the parish. The villages and hamlets are Booths Town, 8 miles
W.N.W. of Manchester; Ellenbrook Chapel, the same ; New Town, near Clifton, 5 N.W.; Swinton, the .
same ; Worsley, 6 miles W.S.W.; Drywood, 5% W.N.W.; Little Houghton (anciently Halghton), 6 N.W.;
Shaving Lane, Stirrup Brook, 7, W.N.W.; Alder Forest (a corruption of Alder Ford Hurst), 7 W.N.W.; and
Roe Green, 6% W.N.W. of that town. Not more than one-fourth part of the land in this parish is arable, a
large portion of it being uncultivated peat soil, and a still larger part pasture. Land lets from £1 to £3,
10s, the statute acre; in the S.W. part of the parish land has depreciated in value abóut 12 per cent.
within the last dozen years; to Worsley this reduction does not apply, and in Clifton it has risen materially.
There are many singular and curious geological strata and vegetable fossils to be seen in the line of the great
tunnel at Worsley. There is also in this parish Trafford Moss, in addition to Chat Moss, already described.
Worsley, Clifton, Pendlebury, and Pendleton, all abound in coal; and in Worsley alone more than 2000
persons are employed in mining by the Bridgewater trust. A large portion of the coal got from the mines at
Worsley is shipped by the canal to Runcorn, and from thence to Liverpool, Ireland, and other places. There
is a weak salt-spring on the Woolden estate, supposed to be a continuation of the Cheshire spring of the
Wiches. The stone-quarries in this parish are few, but the stone is excellent. On Chat Moss a mineral
spring, exhibiting in its course sulphate of iron, is found; and this is the only spring found in that vast tract.
A mineral spring existed at Worsley some years ago, and was resorted to for its medicinal qualities; but it is
now neglected. Another spring, in no great estimation, exists on the Barton New Hall estate, belonging to
Mr. Trafford. - -
The extensive and populous hamlet of Swinton," in the parish of Eccles, has no separate notice in the
population census of 1861, or in the 1836 edition of this work. In 1864 it was made a separate parish,
and its homely brick chapel, built in 1791, and dedicated to St. Peter, became the parish church,
having 880 sittings, of which 250 are free. Value of the living, £240; patron, the vicar of Eccles. The
Rev. H. R. Heywood (1864) is the vicar. He has two curates; and through his efforts and the contributions
of the neighbourhood a small chapel (which is also a day-school during the week), called Holyrood, was
never returned to it. He had weighted the sides. Mr. John further particulars relating to Gilbert in Smiles's Lives of the
Gilbert saved it ; he took just the contrary method ; he weighted Engineers.
the arch in danger, and lightened the sides. He put a layer of clay, * Probably a corruption of Swithin-tun—St. Swithin's possession.
which he covered with straw, on the arch ; he then clayed it again, Great part of Swinton was formerly held by the Knights Hospital-
and let the whole remain till late in the following Spring.” See lers of St. John of Jerusalem.—H.
604 Qſìt #igtúrg of 3Lancašijire.
erected in 1864-5, in Old Lane, near Moorside, an outlying part of the new parish. It has been determined
to rebuild the parish church on an enlarged scale, and nearly £11,000 have been subscribed for this object,
the vicar and his family giving largely. The present living is valued at £300, and is in the patronage of
the vicar of Eccles. The church has 880 sittings, of which 250 are free. The hamlet of Swinton has a
population of about 6500, including the inmates of the Swinton Industrial Schools." Besides the church
and Episcopal chapel named, there are in Swinton a Wesleyan chapel, in Burying Lane, built in 1800 and
rebuilt in 1849; another (Primitive) Methodist ; and a Unitarian chapel, rebuilt in 1857, to which a
spacious schoolroom is attached. A new building for day-schools for boys and girls, in connection with the
parish church, was also built in 1863. •
This parish is rich in worthies, amongst whom may be enumerated William Booth and Lawrence Booth,
archbishops of York; Robert Ainsworth, the lexicographer; and Barton Booth, the tragedian —
WILLIAM BOOTH, archbishop of York and lord-chancellor of England, was the fourth son of John Booth of Barton,
esquire, by Joane, his first wife, daughter of Sir Henry Trafford of Trafford, knight, and born in the early part of the reign of
Henry IV. He was, first, a student of Gray's Inn, but, disliking the study of the law, removed to Cambridge, took orders, and,
n a short time, became prebendary, and afterwards chancellor of St. Paul's Cathedral, and rector of Prescot in Lancashire. His
next preferment was a prebend in the cathedral of Lincoln, which, on the 2d of May 1429, was followed by the archdeaconry
of Middlesex. In 1447, by favour of Pope Nicholas, his patron and friend, he was nominated to the bishopric of Lichfield and
Coventry by bull, dated the 26th of April; made his profession of obedience on the 2d of May, had the temporalities restored on
the 3d of June, and was consecrated on the 9th of July. Having held this see five years, he was, by bull from the same pope,
translated to the archbishopric of York on the 21st of July, and received the pall on the 14th of September from Thomas, bishop
of London, at Fulham ; was enthroned on the 4th September 1453, and had the temporalities restored on the 26th of October
following. This prelate was a liberal and munificent benefactor to the see, and expended large sums of money on the archiepiscopal
palaces of Southwell and York. He died on the 12th of September 1464, after presiding about twelve years, and was buried in the
chapel, built by himself and dedicated to St. John Baptist, in the Collegiate Church of Southwell, in the county of Nottingham.
By his will, dated the 6th of August 1464 and proved in November following, he ordered his body to be interred at Southwell,
or in York Cathedral, at whichever place he might reside at the time of his death ; and among several rich legacies to his relations
he bequeathed to his Spouse the Cathedral Church of York, a mitre and pastoral staff.” He also directed his executors to erect a
mansion for the residence of the officiating chaplain of Eccles, in the county of Lancaster, where he had founded a charity, and
bestowed much money on the poor, both by way of alms and yearly gifts. His tomb yet remains in Southwell Church, though
without any remaining inscription.
LAWRENCE BOOTH, archbishop of York and lord-chancellor of England, half-brother of Archbishop William, was the
youngest son of John Booth of Barton, esq., by his second wife, Maude, daughter of Sir John Savage, and born in the latter part
of the reign of Henry IV. He was educated in the university of Cambridge, ordained deacon, made provost of Beverley in 1437,
and instituted by Bourchier, bishop of Ely, to the rich rectory of Cottenham near Cambridge, on the 6th of March 1444, from the
proceeds of which living he was ordered by the bishop, on his presentation, to pay to the late rector, who had resigned in his
favour, the sum of twenty marks, by four quarterly divisions, for the performance of which engagement he was sworn on the
gospels. On the 21st of September 1446 letters dimissory were granted him from the same prelate, for priest's orders from any
bishop, and he was subsequently put in commission for making inquiry into the validity of a presentment to the church of
Papworth Anneys in Cambridgeshire, then vacant. He was next collated by his brother William, at that time bishop of Lichfield,
to the prebend of Offley, in his cathedral, which he exchanged for that of Oxgate in the church of St. Paul's on the 12th of
November following. He, however, reassumed Offley on the 21st of June 1452, which he again quitted for Tervin, and, on the
resignation of Dr. Damlet, was chosen master of Pembroke Hall, which office he held till his death. In 1450 he was appointed
Keeper of the Privy Seal ; and on the 20th of April 1452 was presented to the archdeaconry of Stow, in the church of Lincoln, by
Bishop Chedworth, but resigned it the same year for the prebend of Wistow, by the collation of his brother, now archbishop of
York, which he quitted for Westwang in the same cathedral, on the 15th of March 1456, having been admitted to the archdeaconry
of Richmond on the 21st of August 1454. On the 22d of November 1453 he was collated to the prebends of Willand and Mapesburg
in the church of St. Paul, was licensed to proceed in law, and made chancellor to Queen Margaret, consort of Henry VI., elected
dean of St. Paul’s, on the 22d of November 1456, collated to the prebend of Rotenhall, appointed one of the commissioners for
renewing the treaties with Scotland, and made chancellor of the university of Cambridge. On the 15th of September 1457, he was
elevated to the bishopric of Durham by bull from Pope Calistus, consecrated on the 25th at Shireburn, and put into possession of
the temporalities on the 18th of October. It is not known by what cause he became promoted to this mitre ; for on the death of
Neville the last bishop, Henry VI. had recommended his chaplain and chief physician by letter to the pope, dated the 12th July
1457. Attached by gratitude and affection to the reigning sovereign, Bishop Booth warmly espoused the interests of the house of
Lancaster. The first events of the war were favourable to the queen ; and on the proscription of the earl of Warwick, his large
possessions in the palatinate fell by right of forfeiture to the bishop, who appointed John, Lord Neville, of Raby, constable of
Barnard Castle and forester of Teesdale, and gave the keepership of Barnard Castle Park to the high-sheriff, Galfrid Middleton.
He was also at this time reappointed commissioner on the Borders. The successes of the royal party, however, were of short
duration ; and the decisive battle of Towton Field, fought on Palm Sunday 1461, broke the forces of the Lancastrians, and fixed
the crown on the head of Edward, earl of March. The vanquished army having been chiefly raised in the northern provinces, the
earl of Northumberland, the lords Clifford, Grey, and Dacre, Sir John Neville, and a long list of the northern gentry, perished in
the immense slaughter of the day, and the proscription and attainder which followed completed the ruin and dispersion of Henry's
adherents. The bishop had been deeply engaged in the interests of the suffering party, and had lately strengthened that connection
by the intermarriage of his niece with the heir of Westmorland, yet he escaped the immediate resentment of the conqueror, and an
express exception was made in the act of attainder against the Lancastrians in Edward's first parliament, in favour of his right of
forfeiture within the palatinate. On the 28th of December 1462 (2 Edward IV.), the temporalities of this see were seized and
committed to the custody of Sir John Fogg, knt., probably on the suspicion of the bishop's attachment to his old patron, Henry
VI. He remained under the royal displeasure for nearly three years, but having made his peace with Edward and seeing the case
of Henry desperate, the temporal revenues were finally restored to him on the 17th of April 1464. The king also dispensed with
his attendance on parliament for three years. From this time his conduct was marked by submission to the ruling powers. In
1470 he obtained the forfeitures of the earl of Warwick, and had his right recognised by parliament, in conformity with the ancient
* See a notice of this institution, p. 379, supra. the relics of this archbishop's legacy to York Cathedral, and, among
others, his archiepiscopal ring and crosier, which I found, by the
* I had an opportunity, in October 1831, of examining some of care of the verger, in very good order and preservation.—B.
#umbren of Šalforn–Gºttleg 33arish. 605
privileges of the see. On the 5th of June 1473, having thoroughly won the confidence of Edward, he was made lord-chancellor of
England, but held that office only about two years. On the 21st of July 1473, the bishop obtained a charter to himself and his
successors for the coinage of pennies and halfpennies in his mint at Durham, and also to make trussels and standards (upper and
lower dies) for the same, during the king's pleasure. In the same year he granted license for stamping and graving. After having
held the see of Durham just twenty years, he was, on the 1st of September 1476, translated to the archbishopric of York, enthroned
on the 8th of the same month, and had the temporalities restored on the 8th of October. This spirited prelate very much
augmented the college and improved the buildings of Pembroke Hall, by giving all that parcel of houses which are situated
between it and the church, called Botolph's Hostel. He redeemed a pension of £5 going yearly out of the rent of Tilney; built
the library and furnished the public School, now appointed for the lectures of the regius professor; endowed the hall of Pembroke
with the manor and patronage of Overton Waterville, Co. Hants, and persuaded King Edward IV. to be a benefactor to it. While
he was at Durham he erected the gate adjoining the college of Auckland, and the buildings on either side of it; and during the
short time he was primate at York, purchased the manor of Battersea, near London, built a palace upon it, and settled it upon his
Successors for ever ; appointing thereout a stipend for the maintenance of two chantry priests for the celebration of mass for the
souls of his brother William and himself in Southwell chapel. After having sat Archbishop of York and Legate of the Apostolic
See three years and nine months, he died on the 19th of May 1480. In his will, dated the 28th of April 1479 and proved the 11th
of July 1480, he commended his soul to God Almighty, St. Mary, St. Peter, St. Paul, St. William, St. John, St. Wilfred, and all
other Saints; and Ordained his body to be buried in the chapel of St. John Baptist, built by his brother in the Collegiate Church of
Southwell.1
THOMAS LANGLEY, cardinal of the Church of Rome, lord-chancellor of England, and bishop of Durham, descended of a
very ancient and honourable Lancashire family, though not of that branch seated at Agecroft, near Manchester, was born, by
computation, about 1370. In his younger years he was a retainer of the house of Lancaster, and to this connection it is evident he
owed his future fortunes. Brought up in a monastery in the county of Norfolk, and having completed his education in the
university of Cambridge, he was ordained priest, and, soon after the accession of Henry the Fourth, was installed prebendary of
York Cathedral, and on the 29th of October 1399, made archdeacon of Norfolk. In the next year he was elected dean of York,
and being admitted by proxy on the 25th of January, was invested in his own person on the 8th of August 1403. In 1405, by a
rapid series of promotions, he was appointed to the high and responsible office of chancellor of England, and in the following year,
after a vacancy in the see of two years and a half, by the deprivation of Archbishop Scrope, who was executed for his share in the
rebellion of the Percies, was nominated by the chapter to the primacy of York; received the royal assent, but, for some reason which
it is not now easy to conjecture, was never installed, but removed by papal provision to Durham. He was finally elected by the
dean and chapter of that see on the 17th of May'; consecrated by Thomas Arundel, archbishop of Canterbury, on the 8th ; and
received restitution of the temporalities on the 9th of August. Bishop Langley resigned the great seal on his consecration, and,
notwithstanding the restlessness of the Scots, who continually harassed the northern parts of the kingdom with their plundering
parties, did not appear in any public capacity until 1411, in which year he acted as a commissioner on the borders, and was created
a cardinal by bull from Pope John the 22d (usually styled the 23d), dated the 6th of June, but without a title from any church,
having never visited Rome. In 1414, 2d of Henry the Fifth, he was sent ambassador to France, in conjunction with the earl of
Dorset and the bishop of Norwich, to propose a treaty of peace on a new basis, and to adjust the dowry of the Princess Catherine,
as well as to enforce the demand of certain territories. The embassy entered Paris on the 24th of January, with a retinue of six
hundred horse, and completed a truce for a year. On the 28th of July 1417, Cardinal Langley again accepted the office of chancellor,
but resigned the seals a second time on the death of Henry, on the 31st of August 1422; he however resumed them, at the request
of both houses of parliament, on the 16th of November 1423. In 1424, on the marriage of James, king of Scotland, after a long
imprisonment in England, with Jane Beaufort of the blood royal of Lancaster, the city of Durham was the place appointed for the
exchange of hostages and the meeting of the English and Scottish commissioners. Cardinal Langley, the bishop of London, the
earls of Northumberland and Westmorland, the Lords Dacre and Greystock, Richard Neville, warden of the West Marches, and
Sir Robert Umfraville, appeared on the part of England, and were met by a numerous train of the most illustrious personages of
Scotland; the hostages for the performance of the contract were received, and the necessary securities being mutually exchanged, a
truce was concluded for Seven years, and James and his queen, after experiencing for a month the cardinal's hospitality, were
honourably escorted by the gentry of Northumberland and the bishopric to Melrose Abbey, where his majesty confirmed the treaty
of Durham, and took possession of his crown. Langley was again in commission on the borders in the course of the next year, in
consequence of some violations of the treaty; and, in 1430 (8th of Henry Sixth), was at York, where, in his capacity of lord chancellor,
with Humphrey, duke of Gloucester, lord-protector, he heard a complaint respecting the Water of Foss. This was the cardinal's
last public act, and the remainder of his life was spent in honourable retirement within his diocese. After presiding over the see
thirty-one years, he died on the 20th of November 1437, and was buried, according to the tenor of his will, in Durham Cathedral,
within his own chantry in St. Mary's chapel, called the Galilee. An altar-tomb of plain marble, with the armorial bearing assumed
on his elevation to the bishopric sculptured on the stone, still marks the place of his interment.
Cardinal Langley's public works were munificent and numerous. He repaired the beautiful western chapel of the Galilee,
Durham Cathedral, and joined with the prior and convent in completing the cathedral cloisters. He built the whole of the old
gaol, with its massy gateway, and founded two schools on the Palace Green, one for grammar and the other for plain-song. At
Howden he constructed the western gateway leading to the orchard, and erected a fair lodge adjoining. He left legacies of books
to the public libraries of Oxford and Cambridge, and to those at Durham House in Oxford, St. Mary's Leicester, the college of
Manchester, then lately founded, and York Cathedral, in the library windows of which last are his arms. His will is dated the 21st
of December 1436, and was proved on the 17th of December 1437. -
Several important acts relative to the episcopal jurisdiction of Durham and the palatine franchise occur in the time of Langley.
Cardinal Langley was a man of a refined and cultivated understanding, and possessed great merit as a writer. According to
the testimony of Pits, he ranked with the first poets of his time ; and his epigrams inscribed to the bishop of Norwich have been
republished in two books, with commentaries by Blake. He also wrote a volume De variis Carminibus, and several works on
pontifical law and jurisprudence. From his high rank in the church, which he never abused, and the extent of confidence reposed
in him by the Sovereign and government of the kingdom, he undoubtedly deserves the character of a munificent prelate and an
able and attentive guardian of the public rights ; and we may feel little hesitation in according an amiable character to the man
who was appointed a feoffee of the will of Henry V., supervisor of that of Edward duke of York, and executor of those of John
duke of Lancaster, and the good and generous Walter Skirlaw, his predecessor in the episcopacy during a period of twenty years.
ROBERT AINSWORTH, F.A.S., a celebrated grammarian and lexicographer of the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries,
descended from the respectable family of that name long resident in the neighbourhood of Bolton, was born at Woodgate, near Clifton,
in the parish of Eccles, in September 1660. Having received a classical education at the Free Grammar-School of Bolton, founded by
Robert Lever, he became master of a seminary there; but in a few years removed to London, and conducted a highly-respectable academy
at Bethnal Green, where he wrote and published in 4to, in 1698, his first work, entitled “The most natural and easie way of Institution;
containing proposals for making a domestic education less chargeable to Parents, and more easie and beneficial to Children.” From
* According to Wood, in University College, Oxford.
606 (Iſiſe £istory of 3Lancashire.
hence he carried his school to Hackney, and afterwards to several other villages in the neighbourhood of the metropolis; when,
having finally acquired a respectable competency, he withdrew entirely from the duties of scholastic instruction, and lived privately.
In 1714 he received proposals from Some eminent booksellers in London to undertake the compilation of a Latin dictionary, on the
principles of Faber's Thesaurus, for the use of Schools; and in 1736, after great application and several suspensions, during a series of
twenty-two years, the first edition made its appearance, dedicated to Dr. Mead, under the title of “Thesaurus Linguæ Latinæ Compen-
diarius, or a Compendious Dictionary of the Latin Tongue, designed for the use of the British Nations.” A second edition, with considerable
improvements, was given to the world ten years afterwards by Mr. Patrick, a third in 1750, and a fourth in 1752, in two volumes folio,
by the Rev. William Young, which was republished in 1761, with the assistance of Dr. John Ward of Gresham College. In 1773 a sixth
edition, with still further emendations, was compiled by Dr. Morell; and in 1779 a useful abridgment by Mr. Thomas in two volumes
8vo. Dr. Morell’s edition was republished in 1823, in 4to and 8vo, by Dr. John Carey, which, I believe, constitutes its last form. In
1720 Ainsworth drew up his “Monumenta Vetustatis Kempiana,” Lond. 1720, 8vo. To the second part, which contains the medals,
and was first published separately in 1719, is prefixed “De asse et partibus ejus commentarius,” by Professor Ward, which had also been
printed separately in 1719. The greatest part of this collection was made by Mr. Gailhard, governor to Lord Cartaret, to whom he sold
them for an annuity of £200. After his lordship's death Kemp bought many of them. Henry, earl of Winchelsea, saw them in Gailhard's
hands at Angiers in 1676, and afterwards, improved, at Paris in 1682. The whole sold for £1090. Six ancient inscriptions, bought by
Dr. Rawlinson, are at Oxford, and were published among the Marmora Oxoniensia. Some others were purchased by Ebenezer Mussell,
esq., and resold at the auction of his curiosities in 1765. Professor Ward also had “Imagines selectae ex monumentis Kempianis,” folio.
In 1729 Ainsworth wrote “Igetov, sive ex veteris monumenti Isiaci descriptione, Isidis Delubrum reseratum,” in 4to. In 1734 he enlarged
Dodwell's dissertation on the famous iron shield, and reprinted it under this title, “De clypeo Camilli antiquo operis elegantissimi, et cum
per tot secula duraverat, integritatis planè mirandae, e reliquiis Musaei Woodwardiani, apud cl. W. Ric. King, trib. mil. adservato, Disser-
tatio. Promittitur ejusdem monumenti argumentique limbo insculpti Descriptio ;” Lond, 4to. This shield was the source of a long-
continued contest among the antiquaries of that day respecting its age and origin. It was sold at Dr. Woodward's sale to Colonel King
for £100, and afterwards purchased at the colonel's decease, in March 1768, for forty guineas by Dr. Wilkinson. Mr. Ainsworth, in the
latter years of his life, was in the habit of amusing himself by visiting the more obscure shops of London, and purchasing coins and other
rarities, which he did with great success, and at a small expense.
He died in London on the 4th of April 1743, in the eighty-third year of his age, and was buried at Poplar, where a monumental
tablet (with an inscription composed by himself) is erected. Mr. Ainsworth enjoyed a considerable talent for English and Latin
poetry, and some specimens of his composition have been printed, as is mentioned in Mr. Peacock's preface to the second edition of
the Thesaurus ; none of these, however, have survived him, and on this account it is that his rank among the poets has never
'been settled. .
BARTON BOOTH, a celebrated tragedian, descended of an ancient and honourable family, long resident in the counties of
Lancaster and Chester, was the third son of John Booth, esq., of Barton, in the parish of Eccles, and born in the year 1681. His
father removed from Lancashire to Westminster in 1684, and at the age of nine years he was put under the care of Dr. Busby, the
head-master of Westminster school, where he distinguished himself particularly by a strong inclination for Latin poetry, and the
extreme tenacity of his memory. His aptness at recitation, a graceful action, and fine musical voice, made a great impression upon
his hearers, and induced Busby to give him a part in one of the Latin plays performed by the scholars of the upper forms before
the vacation. From this circumstance arose his first fondness for the stage, to the great regret of his family, who had intended
him for the church, and had paid the requisite attention to his education ; but young Booth had made up his mind, and, as the
time drew near for his removal to the university, he determined to incur any risk rather than embrace a course of life so utterly
inconsistent with the natural bent of his inclination. Becoming accidentally acquainted with Mr. Ashbury, manager of the Dublin
company, and finding that all argument against his entry into the clerical profession was useless, he left School privately, and
accompanied that gentleman to Ireland. Having distinguished himself greatly in the performance of some of the most important
characters in tragedy, during three seasons, on the Irish stage, he was advised to return home and try his fortune in London.
With this view he came back in 1701, and was recommended to Betterton by Lord Fitzharding, one of the Lords of the Bedchamber
to Prince George, with whom he soon concluded an engagement. His first attempt before an English audience was in the character
of “Maximus,” in the tragedy of Valentiniam, and it was scarcely possible for any actor to hope for a better or more kind reception
than he met with ; his next part was “Artaban,” in the Ambitious Stepmother, which he played with equal effect. From this
time he appeared to possess the necessary degree of confidence which enables an actor to estimate the effect of his author without
vanity, and to maintain his own reputation without fear, and Mr. Booth stood justly in the rank of one of the most considerable
performers of his day. In 1705 he married Frances, second daughter of Sir William Barkham, baronet, of the county of Norfolk,
who survived the union but six years, and died without issue. In 1712 Addison's tragedy of Cato was first brought forward, and
the principal character allotted to Mr. Booth, who entered fully into the spirit of his part, and came up to all that either the
audience or the author could expect. After the run in London was over, the company removed to Oxford, where the play met
with so extraordinary a reception that the doors were thrown open at noon, and the house was full at one o'clock; and the applause
it received from the university was, if possible, superior to that in town. In 1713 he procured a new licence for the management
in London, by the especial favour of Lord Bolingbroke, in whose opinion he stood high, for the express purpose of inserting his own
name ; and his diligence and abilities in the profession, joined to his integrity and the respect paid him as a gentleman of family,
elevated him to as high a point of esteem and honour as had ever been attained by any on the stage before. In 1719 he married
Mrs. Saintlowe, an actress of much merit, and a favourite with the public, with whom he lived on terms of the greatest harmony and
affection. By degrees the health of Mr. Booth began to decline, and he withdrew gradually from the more active duties of the
profession ; yet the crowded audiences his occasional appearances drew together, whenever the state of his strength permitted a
return to the stage, bore ample testimony of their approbation, and confirmed to him, on his retreat, that meed of praise and
esteem which he had won at his commencement, and secured during the continuance of his professional career. His constitution
now began rapidly to decline, and being attacked by a complication of diseases, he died on the 8th May 1733, in the fifty-second year
of his age, and was privately buried at Cowley, near Uxbridge, in Middlesex, the constant place of his retirement, and favoured
residence during the Summer months.
Mr. Booth’s character as an actor has been celebrated by some of the best critics, and among the rest by Aaron Hill, esq.
Cibber also had a very high opinion of Booth’s qualifications, and has accorded to him, in his theatrical capacity, a very high
character. Mr. Booth made translations from several of the Odes of Horace, and has written many songs. . He was, moreover, the
author of a mask or dramatic entertainment called “Dido and Eneas,” which was tolerably well received on the stage.
#umbrel of $alfort—jlixton 43arígí, 607
#.
FLIXTON PARISH.
- ºN the borders of the neighbouring palatinate, Flixton, from its situation, partakes much of the
ººk character of a Cheshire parish. Adjoining to the parish, and at a distance of not more than
{{{...}} º seven miles from the town, of Manchester, this small portion of the hundred of Salford is of
%: ºº necessity partly manufacturing, but it is principally agricultural. The length of the parish,
zºº including its two townships of Flixton and Urmston, is four miles from S.W. to N.E., and
Sº, its breadth two miles from N.N.W. to S.S.E., comprehending an area of 2549 statute acres.
The township of Flixton has an area of 1575 statute acres; population in 1861, 1302. Urmston has an
area of 974 acres, and a population of 748. Population of the parish, 2050. The whole of the southern
boundary of Flixton is washed by the Mersey, as is the northern boundary by the Irwell, and the angle of
confluence formed by these rivers is at a distance of little more than a quarter of a mile below Irlam Ferry.
At that point the Irwell, having in its course received the Roch (which absorbs the Spodden), the Irk, and
the Medlock, Surrenders up its own powerful stream, and loses its name in the Mersey. The origin of the
name of Flixton is involved in obscurity. In the time of our early Henrys it was spelt “Flyxton,” also
Fluxton ; at a subsequent period we have “Fleece Town,” but for some years the original Orthography has
been restored.
Flixton was part of those lands which Roger de Poictou gave to the Greslets, barons of Manchester,
shortly after the Conquest, and one carucate in this township was given by Albert de Grelley for 10s. to Henry
Fitz Siward (probably father of Henry Fitz Latham), by whose heirs it was held in the reign of John."
These heirs were certainly the Lathoms of Lathom. Though the tenants of Flixton owed suit and service
to the court of Manchester, the Grelleys do not appear to have been the sole lords; for in 35 Henry III.
(1250-51) William de Ferrars, earl of Derby, gave to David de Hultone his land in Flixton, together with
the manor of Ordeshall, for his homage and the service of two marks (£1: 6:8) at the four yearly terms
for the sixth part of a knight's fee.” In 27-28 Edward III. (1354-5) Robert de Legh, of the Booths in Eccles,
and Matilda his wife, paid 13s. 4d. for their moiety of the manor of Flixton (probably from the Lathoms),
which appears to have passed in marriage with Matilda, sole daughter of John Legh of Booths, to Richard
de Radcliffe of Ordeshall, steward of Blackburnshire, who was drowned in Rossendale Water in 1380 ; and
his descendant, Sir John Radcliffe, died seised of the manors of Flixton and Ordeshall, on 8th February
1589, aged 53. His widow Anne, daughter and heiress of Thomas Asshawe of Hall-on-the-Hill, died there 10th
January 1627, aged 82. In 9 Charles I. (1633) Leonard Asshawe of Shaw Hall, esq., was seised of the
manors of Shaghe and Flixton, with a fishery in the Irwell.” His daughter and co-heiress Elizabeth con-
veyed the estate in marriage to Peter Egerton, esq., second son of Sir Ralph Egerton of Ridley, Co.
Chester; Peter Egerton was succeeded by Leonard Egerton, esq., who was followed by Peter of Shaw Hall,
high-sheriff in 1641, and deputy-lieutenant in 1642. Embarking with great zeal in the cause of the Parliament,
this magistrate became colonel under General Fairfax, and afterwards general in the Parliamentary army,
and at the same time filled the office of member of the committee of sequestration. In his military capacity
he was present at the sieges of Manchester and Bolton. He married, first, Mary Cooke of Manchester, and
secondly, Mary Lever of Kersall, and had issue Peter Egerton, high-sheriff of the county of Lancaster in
1703, who married Mary Aldersey of Chester, and had Mary Egerton, sole heiress. His father had also four
other children—Leonard, Ruth, Esther, and Richard, the last-mentioned of whom was born September 9,
1663. He was succeeded by John Egerton, esq., who was the last heir-male of the family, and died in the
beginning of the eighteenth century. The Flixton estates were sold to various purchasers during the last
century, and much of the land of the parish is now freehold inheritance. In 1757 Humphrey Owen,
minister of Flixton, married “Widow Egerton,” of Shaw Hall; but Miss Warburton of Flixton is the
present owner of that somewhat celebrated mansion.
There was a church here in the twelfth century. It was given about 1190 by Robert de Lathom to his
monastery of Burscough. The value in Bishop Gastrell's time was certified at £34; in 1834 it was £103 ;
in 1867, £340. t
The parish church of Flixton, in the archdeaconry and deanery of Manchester, dedicated to St. Michael,
is a small plain edifice of modern date, placed at the eastern extremity of the village, pleasantly situated
1 Testa de Wevill, fol. 404. - 2 Birch’s MSS. 3 Duchy Records, vol. xxviii. m. 39.

608 Ǻr £istory of 3Lancashire.
upon an elevated site. The body of the church is low, and the east end exhibits a remnant of a more
ancient building. The windows are semicircular at the top, and the tower of the church, though not lofty,
is handsome, having an embattled parapet surmounted by small pinnacles. The interior is, if possible, more
plain than the exterior. The nave is divided from the side-aisles by three columns on each side, having
pointed arches with a corniced rim round the capital. The eastmost window on the south side is upheld by
a small bracket column, and the east window is of the Gothic form, shedding its light on a neat chancel.
The church and steeple, with the exception of the chancel, were entirely rebuilt in 1732 at the cost of the
parish. In the year 1815 a portion of the chancel fell in accidentally, in consequence of one of the pillars
having been undermined, but without inflicting any material injury. Flixton Church ranks amongst the
ancient churches of the county; and as early as the year 1291 we have this entry in the ecclesiastical
valuation—“Church of Flixton, £4: 13: 4.” Again, in the Liber Regis of the date of 26 Henry VIII.
(1534)—“Flixton curacy to an impropriation (and therefore left blank).” The living is a perpetual curacy
appended to the prebend of Flixton, in Lichfield Cathedral. Formerly it was in the gift of the Egertons of
Shaw Hall, but only during their lease of the tithes of the prebend; and in the ecclesiastical register, in the
bishop's court at Chester, the following is affixed to the name of the incumbent in 1756 :—
“ Humphrey Owen, instituted July 20, 1756–licensed by the chancellor to the appropriate curacy of Flixton, vacant by the
death of Samuel Bardsley, at the nomination of Harry Mander, prebendary of the prebend of Flixton, founded in the cathedral
church at Lichfield.”
In the same year, and upon the same occasion, the nomination of the incumbent was claimed by the warden
and fellows of Manchester, but without sufficient title; and the prebendary of the prebend of Flixton presented,
as his successors have ever since done, till the recent endowment of the tithe-charge, and making the living a
rectory, under the patronage of the bishop of Manchester. The church has 430 sittings, of which 30 are free.
LIST of the INCUMBENTs of FLIXTON, in the seventeenth, eighteenth, and nineteenth centuries, from the Parish Registers, and from
the Register in the Ecclesiastical Court at Chester, with the time of their institution.
Instituted . . . 1629 Edward Wolmer. Instituted . . . 1769 Thomas Bealey.
1653 Alexander Barlow. Mar. 7, 1807 Samuel Stephenson. -
1663 John Isherwood. July 12, 1816 Henry Burdett Worthington.
1708 John Jones. - Dec. 23, 1823 William Astley Cave Brown
1715 Samuel Bradsley. Cave.
July 20, 1756 Humphrey Owen. 1863 C. Barton, the present rector.
Dec. 10, 1764 Timothy Y. Lowton.
The registers of the parish commence in 1570, and exhibit the following contrast –
A.D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials. A. D. Baptisms. Marriages. Burials.
I570 e -> º 11 2 7 1831 º e * 81 3 103
I571 º & & 8 3 3. I832 º e º 62 8 88
A species of mausoleum is erected in the church-yard at Flixton, in memory of the late Ralph Wright of Flixton House, esq.,
an active magistrate of the counties palatine of Lancaster and Chester, who died November 16, 1831, aged seventy-one years; and
a neat mural tablet is placed in the church to the memory of Henry, son of Robert J. J. Norreys of Davyhulme Hall, esq., who
died May 9, 1832, aged twenty-two. In January 1868 additional burial-ground, attached to the church, was consecrated.
There are only two Dissenting meeting-houses in the parish –The old Methodist chapel, erected about 1790; and the Primi-
tive Methodist chapel, in 1824-5.
The charities of Flixton, as exhibited in the sixteenth report of the commissioners appointed by parliament, are the following:—
FLIXTON TOWNSHIP.
Warburton's and other Charities.—Peter Warburton de Brook, according to a memorandum, and a tablet dated 1768, left £60, one
half the interest of which was to be given to the poor, and the other applied to the support of Shawtown School, within Flixton.
#3 appear to be distributed on account of this charity. £1 : 10s., the annual produce of three other charities of £10 each, was
formerly distributed between the school and the poor in 1807. – Wood's Charity, 1779; £30 for the education of poor children.
By litigation in the Exchequer, this charity has been totally annihilated.
TJRMSTON TOWNSHIP.
Gregory's Charity.—No date ; £10 in bread to the poor of Urmston.—Heywood's Charity, 1681 : £10, producing annually 10s. to
the school in Urmston. Coupe and Sherlock's Charities, 1705 : £30, producing annually 30s., of which 5s, appear to be lost ;
25s. are given to the school in Urmston; 5s. to the minister and ringers of Flixton, by Mr. Samuel Taylor, proprietor of Newcroft,
and successor of William Allen, by whose insolvency Sherlock's charity of £20 for bread to the poor has been lost.—Newton's
Charity, 1800 : £100, producing annually £5 to Shawtown school, for the instruction of ten poor children of Urmston.
During the incumbency of the late Rev. A. T. Gregory, two excellent schools, one in Flixton and the other in Urmston, were erected
and established.
The population of the parish of Flixton, though it had increased in the proportion of three to two
during the first twenty years of the present century, retrograded during the succeeding ten years, and
decreased from 2064 in 1851, to 2050 in 1861, a circumstance easily accounted for from the total
absence of manufacturing establishments in the parish, and the strong attraction presented by the abundant
supply of labour and liberal wages of Manchester. There are here no factories, no steam-engines, no
markets, no fairs, but a rural and peaceful population. The decrease in the inhabitants does not arise
from any want of Salubrity in the air, or from any severity in the climate ; on the contrary, the people are
long-lived, and as many persons, in proportion to their numbers, attain the age of three score years and ten
* Flixton has its annual wake on the first Sunday after St. Michael's day, and the festival is noted for eel-pies.
#umbrel of Šalforn—jlixton parish. 609
in Flixton as in any parish of Lancashire. These facts combined serve to show that present enjoyment is
more sought after than length of days. In 1861 the population of the parish was 2050. .
FLIXTON.—This village is delightfully situated upon a verdant eminence. Flixton House, the residence
of the late Ralph Wright, esq., is a plain family mansion, with extensive gardens and pleasure-grounds.
Shaw Hall, near the small village of Shawtown, is a venerable mansion of the age of James I., with gables
and wooden parapets on the S.W. and N. sides. The roof has a profusion of chimneys, and a cupola in the
centre. In one of the apartments is a painting, covering the principal part of the ceiling, which represents
the family of Darius kneeling in supplication before Alexander the Great. This picture, though two hundred
years old, is in fine preservation, and the faces and figures indicate the hand of a master. There are some
smaller paintings and tapestry in other rooms, on one of which is represented a Persian chief at parley with
Alexander, and afterwards submitting to the conqueror. Stained glass in the windows exhibits the arms of
Asshawe and Egerton, successive lords of Flixton. The hall and 149 statute acres of land in a ring-fence
were advertised for sale in January 1774. The house is now the property of Miss Warburton. Adjoining
to the ample gardens and filbert-grove was once a moat, which has partly disappeared. Shaw Hall is now
used as a ladies' boarding-school, a purpose to which, by its situation, it seems well adapted.
URMSTON.—In its oldest form this small manor was named Ormeston, that is Orme's tun or dwelling.
In the Testa de Nevill we find that Albert Greslet the elder gave to Orme Fitz-Seward, with his daughter
Emma in marriage, one carucate of land in Eston, by 10s. yearly, and that the heirs of this Orme still held
the land. To distinguish it from other places named Eston or East-ton, it was called Orme's Eston, or
Ormeston, whence its present name. The Testa de Nevill (fol. 827) states that in the time of King John
Adam de Urmeston then held one carucate of land of the heir of Randle Fitz-Roger. In the Trafford
family-pedigree, Richard, son of Adam de Urmeston, is said to have granted lands to Richard de Trafford 4
Henry III. (1219–20). Amongst the monuments of the Hydes of Denton is the following, copied by Roger
Dodsworth (Harl. MSS. 2112, fo. 123):—
Ormeston | Adam of Ormeston giveth unto Gilbert of Ashton all his lands of Ormeston, with the Lordship of the whole town,
A.D. 1305 with wards, reliefs, etc. Witnesses: Roger of Pilkington; Richard of Moston; Adam of Hudlegh; Roger of Barlow ;
Adam of Holme ; Richard Valentyne, clerk, anno d’ni 1305. [Sealed.]
Subsequently these possessions appear to have reverted to the Ormestons or Urmstons, and about the reign of Henry IV.
Ralph Hyde, second son of Thomas Hyde of Norbury, married the daughter and heiress of Adam de Urmston, lord of Urmston,
and thus took the manor and estates of Urmston into the Hyde family, who held them until the eighteenth century, when John
Allen of Davyhulme Hall, esq., became the lord of Urmston, from whom Mr. Marsden bought the manor, and from him it was
purchased by the uncle of G. L. Ridehalgh, esq., the present lord of the manor. A court-baron for the manor of Urmston is held
here twice a-year—namely, at Christmas and Midsummer—but no court is now held for the manor of Flixton.
The new church of St. Clement, at Urmston, the foundation-stone of which was laid in March 1867,
was consecrated on Saturday, January 4, 1868, by the bishop of Manchester. It is built from a design of
Mr. J. Medland Taylor, architect, of Manchester, in the geometrical decorated style, the external walls being
faced with stone, and three colours employed for variety and relief. The roof is covered with slates in two
colours. Accommodation is provided for 360 persons, with an arrangement for a future north aisle to hold
200 more. The plan, as now carried out, consists of a chancel, with the usual provision for seating a choir;
a south chancel-aisle devoted to the use of the school children; and a north chancel-aisle to serve as organ-
chamber and vestry. The body of the church comprises a nave and south aisle, divided from each other by
an arcade of four arches, resting on pillars with moulded and floriated capitals. The main entrance is
through the north porch. This is of timber framing, on a stone base, with little cusped windows in its sides,
and a high overhanging tripped roof, surmounted by a metal cross. The font (which is the gift of a son and
a daughter of Mr. J. T. Hibbert, M.P.) stands in a central position at the western end of the nave. It is a
circular bowl, extensively carved, and enriched in the upper part with a traceried band, the panels of which
contain various symbols. The pulpit is of Caen stone, circular in form, with open tracery all round, and
marble shafts. A larger circular carved shaft bears an eagle, which supports the book-rest. The pulpit is
entered from the vestry, through an arched opening at the north-east angle of the nave. It is the gift of Mr.
Hibbert, M.P. The reredos is also of Caen stone, relieved with marble. The reredos occupies the whole
space between the Lord's table and the east window ; the rest of the eastern wall of the chancel, and some
other parts of the church, are decorated, in colour, with various devices and symbols. This work, as well as
the reredos, is given by Mr. Joseph Deakin. The brass lectern, from which the lessons will be read, is the
gift of Mrs. Ashcroft, Croft's Bank. On the north side are three large windows, one of three, and two each
of two lights; one gabled clerestory window on the south side, and three tall windows in the western gable,
the centre one being of two lights, flanked by a single light on each side. The windows are all traceried,
and of different designs; repetition, either in the general elevations or in the details of the different parts,
having been carefully avoided. The lead-work in the tracery of the windows has all been drawn out to suit
the various forms of the stone-work. By this means the appearance of the windows is greatly but inexpen-
sively improved. The chancel-fittings were originally intended to be in red deal, but Mr. J. E. Cockrell (a
4 I
610 (Iije Đígtorg of 3Lancašijire.
non-parishioner) offered to defray the extra cost of oak, and also of additional ornamentation. The church is
lighted by four gas standards in the nave, and by two other handsome ones in the chancel. There are also
wall-brackets in the south-aisle, children's vestry, and organ-chamber. The heating-apparatus is contained in
the basement, the warm air passing into the chancel by gratings in the floor. The bell-turret is situated at
the junction of the nave and chancel, is capped by a six-sided slender slated spirelet, terminating with a
movable gilt vane. The general contract was taken by Mr. M. Foggett of Manchester, for £2125; but
there have also been other persons employed for the font, reredos, and pulpit ; for the gas-fittings and lectern ;
for the carving of the pillars, etc., and for the coloured decoration—all working from the designs and under
the direction of the architect.
The Ecclesiastical Commissioners have expressed themselves prepared, upon its consecration, to assign
to the church a separate district—to consist of the township of Urmston, in the parish of Flixton—and to
endow it with £130 per annum. This sum will be increased by means of pew-rents. The right of patronage
or nomination will be vested in the bishop of Manchester and his successors in perpetuity. [The bishop has
since collated the Rev. Elijah Harwood Clarke to the incumbency.] Of the 360 sittings which have been
provided, 160 are intended to be appropriated, the remainder to be free. Mr. Ridehalgh, a large owner of
property in the neighbourhood, contributed the site of the church and burial-ground. For purposes of burial,
one thousand yards only, on the South side of and contiguous to the church, were consecrated along with
the sacred edifice. The amount required for the erection and completion of the church—£2135 or there-
abouts—has been raised by subscription; Mr. Hibbert, M.P., who resides in the neighbourhood, being one
of the chief contributors.
Urmston Hall, now a farm-house, is a wood-and-plaster fabric of the age of Elizabeth, adorned by a
gable painted in lozenges and trefoils. The Urmstons resided here before they removed to Westleigh, and
were succeeded by the Hydes. The hall is surrounded by lofty trees; and in a small house opposite to it,
bearing the name of “Richard o' Jones's,” was born John Collier, the renowned “Tim Bobbin,” the
provincial satirist of Lancashire, as appears from the following document :-
“Baptisms in the parish church of Flixton in the year 1709. John, son of Mr. John Collier of Urmston, baptized January the 8th.”
I hereby certify this to be a true extract of the parish register book at Flixton, as witness my hand this 30th November 1824. (Signed)
THOMAS HARPER, parish-clerk. -
Mr. Collier's father was a village schoolmaster," a pursuit which our author took up when he established himself at Milnrow, in
the parish of Rochdale, where he spent fifty-seven years of his life, laughing himself and the cause of laughter in others. His
original destination was the church, to which by his disposition he was so little fitted; he was afterwards apprenticed to a weaver,
but the confinement of the loom did not at all accord with the vivacity of his mind and his impatience under restraint; he therefore
sought a pursuit more congenial to his inclinations, and this he found in his own little seminary at Milnrow. Had the eccentricity
of his disposition and his love of mirth allowed him to bend his mind to poetical compositions of the loftier kind, there is little
doubt that he would have been a successful candidate for poetic fame. The following unpublished lines, written by Mr. Collier,
show that he was well acquainted with the style of our ancient English poets, and had the power to imitate them with success.
A gentleman named Kershaw, of Manchester, having lent him an old edition of Chaucer, of the date of 1561, he was so
delighted with it that he penned, in a beautiful old black-letter character like that of the volume, the following verses, in imitation
of those of the father of English poetry, and addressed them to Mr. Kershaw, attached to the blank leaf of the work. This volume
was given by Mr. Kershaw's family to the late Mr. Titus Hibbert of Manchester, and is at present (1836) in the possession of Dr.
Hibbert [Ware], to whom we are indebted for the transcript –
“Hende [gentle] Maister Kirshaw yeh desiren
Moe thanks perchaunce than yo requiren
For sending me youre old frynde Chaucer ;
And as I weene thee myckell fawser
Than Countrie Hynde, soe gif ge wanten
A Boke of myne it sal be senten;
For marveyle tis that yeh ne soone
Yerne for a Boke, eftsoones its doome.
How can ich thanken trulyck soche
Goode fryndes as favouren me o'er moche ;
Who reckless of theyr Bokes & peyns
Proove trulyck frynds for lytel geynes.”
Much of the land in the parish of Flixton is arable, probably to the amount of nine-tenths of the whole.
The farms are comparatively large, and the soil is in general a rich, black, sandy, vegetable loam, producing
corn, fruit, and potatoes, in abundance. The rent of land, which has depreciated in so many other places,
had advanced here, and a farm of the usual quality will now let for about £3: 10s. the statute acre yearly.
Separated by the Irwell from the great coal-fields of Mid-Lancashire, fuel is comparatively scarce and dear in
the parish of Flixton ; and to this cause, amongst others, may be attributed the absence of manufacturing
establishments and the decrease of population. .
* The senior Mr. Collier has been represented as a clergyman filling the office of curate of Urmston; but the inhabitants say that
this is a mistake, that he did not at any time officiate as a clergyman; and it is certain that there is not now, nor was there during his
lifetime, any curate or curacy of Urmston.
#umbret of $alfort—jlixton arish. 611
We here terminate the parish histories of Salford Hundred, the summary retrospect of which may be
thus briefly sketched.—Taking the great and almost metropolitan city of Manchester as our centre, the
first line of radiation was drawn to Ashton-under-Lyne, the south-east boundary of the county of Lancaster;
then northward along the eastern border, the history of Prestwich-with-Oldham came next under review ; the
adjoining parish of Middleton followed; and the eastern frontier was completed, on the Yorkshire border,
by the parish of Rochdale. After climbing the heights of the royal manor of Tottington, in the parish of
Bury, we descended into the vale of the Irwell, taking, in Succession, the parishes of Radcliffe, Bolton, Dean,
Eccles, and Flixton, where a junction is formed with the neighbouring county palatine of Chester, and where
the circuit of the hundred of Salford is completed. -
(The #istorg of 3Lancashire–ſtºrmta,
ADDENDA TO VOLUME I.
#2:º §§HE following Statistical Tables, relating to the whole of Lancashire, and some other articles,
º, which, from various causes, could not be inserted in their proper places, are here printed, in
**): i preference to leaving them for the Appendix at the end of the second volume of this
º
3%
** A. A. work ...—
§4)
~2-, -
A
º:
§
º:
tº
POPULATION OF LANCASHIRE, ITS PARISHES, TOWNSHIPS, ETC.,
IN 1801, 1811, 1821, 1831, 1841, 1851, AND 1861.
The seven official censuses of the population of the United Kingdom in the above years furnish the
data for ascertaining the increase or otherwise in the numbers of the people in six decennial periods, the
first five of which compose the first half of the nineteenth century. In this place our attention must be
chiefly confined within the limits of the county palatine of Lancaster. Perhaps one of the most remarkable
features in the official returns for the half-century is the great increase in the population of Lancashire, both
absolutely per se, and comparatively as regards the other most populous counties of England. The population
of the entire county in 1801 was 673,486 persons (322,722 males and 350,764 females). The population in
1851 had risen to 2,026,462 persons (986,633 males and 1,039,829 females), being an increase in the fifty
years of 1,352,976 persons (663,911 males and 689,065 females). In other words, the population of Lanca-
shire increased in the first fifty years of the present century no less than two hundred and one per cent, or an
average of 2:23 per cent yearly. In half-a-century it more than trebled its numbers. Compare this vast
increase with the two next populous counties, Middlesex (small in area, but including so large a portion of
the metropolis) and Yorkshire, the largest and one of the most thickly-peopled counties, and what are the
results? In 1801, Middlesex had a population of 818,129 ; Yorkshire of 859,133; Lancashire had then a
smaller population than either by 150,000 to 180,000. In 1851 the population of Middlesex was 1,003,519;
and that of Yorkshire 904,664; so that in actual numbers, within its borders, Lancashire exceeded Middlesex
in 1851 by 1,022,943 persons, or contained a population more than twice as large as that of the metropolitan
county. Lancashire had a larger, population than Yorkshire in 1851, by 1,121,798, though Yorkshire has
more than thrice the area of Lancashire (Yorkshire, 3,829,286 ; Lancashire, 1,219,221 statute acres). In
other words, while the population of Middlesex increased in the half-century 130 per cent, or 1.68 per cent
yearly, and that of Yorkshire 95 per cent (the West Riding 132 per cent), or 1:30 per cent yearly, that of
Lancashire increased 201 per cent or 2.23 per cent yearly. The statistics of the cotton trade and manu-
facture show that this vast increase is mainly, if not wholly, due to the rapid growth and progress of this
great staple industry.
The population of the county of Lancaster in the seven periods named is returned as follows in the
official censuses:–
1801. 1811. 1821. 1831. 1841. 1851. 1861.
Persons..... 673,486 828,499 1,052,948 1,336,854 1,667,054 2,031,236 2,429,440
Males....| 322,722 394,194 512,524 650,389 814,847 991,090; 1,173,424
Females. 350,764 434,305 540,424 686,465 852,207 1,040,146 1,256,016
Increase in the intervals of Census.
1801 to 1811 to 1821 to 1831 to 1841 to 1851 to
1811. I821. 1831. 1841. 1851. I861.
Persons..... 155,013 224,449 283,906 330,200 364, 182 398,204
Males..... 71,472 118,330 137,865 164,458 176,243 182,334
Females.. 83,541 106,119 146,041 165,742 187,939 215,870
Rates of Increase (per cent) Decennial Periods 1801-1861.
22 27 27 24 | 22 | 20
The Diocese of Manchester is not conterminous with the county; but consists of the deaneries of
Amounderness, Blackburn, Leyland, and Manchester, the whole parish of Leigh, and such parts of the


(The #istorg of lancashire—ºnema.
6.13
former deaneries of Kendal and Kirkby Lonsdale as are in Lancashire, which now constitute the deanery of
Tunstal. The archdeaconry of Lancaster consists of the deaneries of Amounderness and Tunstal. The arch-
deaconry of Manchester consists of the deaneries of Blackburn, Manchester, and Leyland. These two arch-
deaconries constitute the diocese of Manchester, created in 1847. According to the census of 1861, it has an
area of 845,904 statute acres, 317,586 inhabited houses, and the population of the diocese, as corrected,
numbers 1,667,720. It then contained 358 churches with 277,055 sittings, of which 118,207 were free.
The following table exhibits the area, houses, and numbers of persons of each sex, in the county, in each
of its six hundreds, and in its parliamentary and municpal boroughs, on the night of the 8th April 1861 —
COUNTY OF LANCASTER, APRIL 8, 1861.
AREA. HOUSES. POPULATION.
Statute Acres. Inhabited. mºn Building. Persons. Males. |Females.
1,219,221 438,503 19,601 3592 2,429,440 1,173,424 1,256,016
HUNDREDS.
Amounderness . 8,581 356 71 :47,716 24,003 23,713
Blackburn 36,208 1,891 523 188,129 92,344 95,785
Leyland g 10,909 382 90 58,622 29,213 29,409
Lonsdale . . 10,870 786 117 56,704 28,907 27,797
Salford 85,368 || 3,330 600 435,423 210,843 224,580
West Derby 47,884 2,110 628 263,716 128,873 134,843
BOROUGHS.”
Ashton, borough 6,647 I60 II. 34,886 16,285 18,601
Blackburn , , 11,306 223 155 63,126 30,140 32,986
Bolton 3 2 13,129 251 29 70,395 33,759 36,636
Burnley , , 5,085 25 36 28,700 13,748 14,952
Clitheroe , , 1,433 II () 14 7,000 3,337 3,663
Lancaster , , 2,681 264 § 32 14,487 6,861 7,626
Liverpool , , 65,781 5, 197 600 443,938 215,716 228,222
Manchester, city 61,487 2,760 256 338,722 160,083 178,639
Oldham, borough 13,810 157 116 72,333 35,561 36,772
Preston 3 2 15,050 274 I 30 82,985 38,068 44,917
Rochdale , , 7,691 9]. 54 38,114 18,216 19,898
Salford , , & 19,128 744 64 102,449 48,117 54,332
*Stalybridge, part of . 1,334 40 4 6,791 3, 112 3,679
*Stockport, part of . 2,922 135 4 13,838 6,325 7,513
*Warrington, part of . 4,503 200 35 23,708 11,450 12,258
Wigan e º 6,696 115 23 37,658 18,463 19,195
Total (county) 438,503 || 19,601 || 3592 2,429,440 | 1,173,424 1,256,016


1. POPULATIONS OF LARGE TOWNS.—According to the Census of
1861 there were 2,803,989 persons living in London. The
metropolis, however, of the Registrar-General is a much more
extensive place than is generally supposed. For instance, it starts
from Hampstead in the north and extends to Sydenham in the
south.
as Hammersmith in the west. It is estimated by the Registrar-
General that the population of this vast area will reach 3,126,635
in the middle of the year 1868. The actual area is equal to
77,997 acres; and as so many suburban places are included, it is
not surprising to find that the density of London is not nearly so
great as that of some of the other towns enumerated in the weekly
mortality returns. For instance, in Liverpool there are actually 98
persons living on every acre ; in Manchester there are 81-8; in
Birmingham there are 45; but in London there are only 40 l. In
Bristol the density of population is lower still—namely, 35.7 per
acre; in Hull it is 30-4; in Newcastle, 239; in Salford, 22:7; in
Bradford, 16-4 ; in Leeds, 11 ; and in Sheffield, 10-2. The popu-
lation of Liverpool in 1861 was 443,938; the Registrar-General's
computation for the year 1868 is 500,676. In like manner,
Manchester has increased from 357,979 to 366,835, and Birmingham
from 296,076 to 352,296. Bristol in 1861 numbered 154,093 Souls,
It reaches from Woolwich in the east and stretches as far
but the population is now stated to be 167,487. Hull has increased
from 97,661 to 108,269, and Newcastle from 109,108 to 127,701.
Salford has risen in seven years from 102,449 to 117,162 ; Bradford
from 106,218 to 108,119 ; Leeds from 207,165 to 236,746 ; and
Sheffield from 185,172 to 232,362. The population of London is
thus greater by 809,082 than all these towns put together. It is
more than six times as large as Liverpool, and considerably larger
than four such towns as Liverpool and Leeds taken together. It is
to be expected, therefore, that the births and deaths in London will
be very numerous. Accordingly, it is stated that in the 52 weekly
reports published for 1867 the births reached 112,264, and the
deaths numbered 70,588; that is to say, 308’4 children were born
in London daily, or nearly 13 in every hour that passed. Similarly
1939 persons died in London daily, or 8 in every hour.
* The borough of Stalybridge is mostly in Cheshire; the entire
borough contains 4864 inhabited houses, and 24,921 persons.
* Stockport borough is mostly in Cheshire; the entire borough
contains 11,255 inhabited houses, and 54,681 persons.
* The municipal limits of Warrington borough extend into
Cheshire ; the entire borough has 5044 inhabited houses, and
26,431 persons.
614
Çür #istory of £ancashire—ºntenna.
Under the Poor-Law Registration Acts, the county has been formed into a number of clusters, or groups
of adjacent parishes and townships, called Poor-Law Unions, numbered consecutively 461–486.
unions the following table exhibits the area in statute acres (the letter w in this column indicating that it
consists in part of water and sea-coast), and the population (males and females) in the years 1851 and 1861.
—[To this table we have added columns 4, showing the number of parishes in each union, and 11,
giving the latest rateable value of property in the union.]
Of these
34. LANCASHIRE (Registration or Union County).
Area in No. Of Persons. Males. Females. Rateable
Statute Parishes, Value,
Acres. etc. 1851. 1861. 1851. 1861. 1851. | 1861. 1867.
461 | Liverpool" 2,220w 1 || 258,236 269,742 | 127,112 || 132,842 | 131,124 || 136,900 £
462 | West Derby 50,567W 22 153,279 |225,845 71,337 106,131 || 81,942 119,714 | 945,890
463 | Prescot 56,859W 20 56,074 || 73,127 | 28,493 || 36,951 || 27,581 || 36,176 || 313,374
464 | Ormskirk 111,968w 21 38,307 || 46,252 | 19,223 22,279 | 19,084 || 23,973 || 290,061
465 Wigan 47,018 20 77,539 94,561 39,008 || 47,705 || 38,531 || 46,856 320,350
466 Warrington 29,984w 16 36,164 43,875 18,090 22,035 | 18,074 21,840 174,091
467 | Leigh 23,610 10 32,734 37,700 | 16,020 | 18,060 | 16,714 | 19,640 || 130,464
468 || Bolton 43,896 26 || 114,712 | 130,269 || 56,268 62,805 || 58,444 67,464 || 448,577
469 | Bury © º - 32,990 12 88,815 || 101,135 | 43,439 || 48,979 || 45,376 52,156 362,300
470 | Barton-upon-Irwell. 23,279 6 31,585 39,038 15,365 | 18,431 | 16,220 20,607 || 173,972
471 | Chorlton. 11,549 12 123,841 | 169,579 58,553 80,320 65,288 | 89,259 585,844
472 | Salford . . 4,830 4 87,523 105,335 || 41,816 || 49,587 45,707 || 55,748 || 390,103
473 || Manchester? e 12,628 I 228,433 243,988 || 109,722 || 115,658 || 118,711 || 128,330
474 | Ashton-under-Lyne . 38,657 13 119,199 || 134,753 || 57,390 63,289 || 61,809 || 71,464 || 392,127
475 | Oldham . º 16,872 8 86,788 111,276 42,596 || 54,623 44,192 || 56,653 289,812
476 || Rochdale. 40,340 6 72,515 91,754 || 35,814 || 44,484 || 36,701 || 47,270 314,632
477 | Haslingden 26,681 I0 50,424 69,781 || 24,866 || 33,941 || 25,558 || 35,840 | 207,603
478 Burnley . º - 54,126 26 63,868 || 75,595 || 31,680 || 37,005 || 32,188 || 38,590
479 | Clitheroe. * 114,697 35 22,368 20,476 | 11,466 || 10,393 || 10,902 || 10,083 || 112,889
480 | Blackburn 43,569 24 90,738 119,942 44,553 57,945 46,185 61,997 || 309,666
481 | Chorley . 52,213 26 37,701 || 41,678 18,992 | 20,504 || 18,709 || 21, 174 | 167,741
482 | Preston . 68,035W 28 96,545 110,523 46,802 || 52,068 || 49,743 58,455 352,414
483 | Fylde 76,397w 23 22,002 || 25,682 10,845 | 12,342 11,157 | 13,340 | 161,572
484 || Garstang. 62,617w 23 12,695 | 12,425 6,598 6,421 6,097 6,004 85,888
485 | Lancaster 138,746 46 34,660 | 35,297 17,154 17,401 || 17,506 || 17,896 || 124,342
486 | Ulverston 135,043 28 30,556 || 35,738 15,622 | 18,281 || 14,934 17,457 224,542

The aggregate rateable value of the property in the above unions was (at Lady-Day) 1866, £6,892,125 ;
in 1867, £7,194,780.
Increase, £302,655.
What may be called the vital statistics of the county in its various poor-law unions, are furnished by the
following official return of the aggregate number of marriages, births, and deaths, registered in each of the
superintendent registrars' districts in Lancashire” in the ten years 1851-60, the excess of registered births over
deaths, and the increase or decrease of population in the interval of the censuses of 1851 and 1861 —

* A single parish under a local act.
* A single parish under the Poor-Law Amendment Act.
* By a parliamentary return issued in 1867, it appears that in
Lancashire the average annual rate of mortality per 1000 living
was:–In 1841, 50°28; in 1851, 60.26;
It further appears that, in this
28 °3.
Registered in Ten Years, 1851-60. Excess of Births º .."
Parish or Union. over Deaths, 5 e
Marriages. Births, Deaths. 1851-60. Increase. Decrease.
34 Lancashire . 221,212 845,962 591,784 254,178 398,065 -
461 Liverpool 40,259 90,131 87,898 2,233 11,506 -
462 West Derby 12, 179 67,675 43,083 24,592 72,566 -
463 Prescot 4,879 26,568 15,256 11,312 17,053 --
464 Ormskirk 2,735 14,349 8, 141 6,208 7,945 - .
465 Wigan 7,695 36,296 23,067 13,229 17,022 -
466 Warrington 3,948 16,384 9,581 6,803 7,711 -
467 Leigh . © 3,047 13,433 8,853 4,580 4,966 -
468 Bolton 11,232 50,712 32,924 17,788 15,557 -
469 Bury . • º 7,817 34,325 21,986 12,339 12,320 -
470 | Barton-on-Irwell 3,546 11,780 7,728 4,052 7,453 -
471 | Chorlton 4,163 56,724 35,123 21,601 45,738 -
in 1855, 26-8; in 1865,
county, the proportional
numbers of men and women to 100 marriages that signed the mar-
riage-register with marks were as follow —In 1855—-men, 33-2,
women, 59.2 ; in 1865—men, 24'4, women, 46:1.
(ſiſt ºigturn of £antagùirt—ºbbemba. 615
- - Increase or Decrease of Popu-
Registered in Ten Years, 1851-60. ++,+k, c. 4-3 ~~~ 3 -> * }.
Parish or Union. º sº lation in interval, 1851-61.
Marriages. Births. Deaths. 1851-60. Increase. Decrease.
472 | Salford 3,982 36,974 25,076 11,898 17,812 -
473 || Manchester 45,369 91,203 74,359 16,934 15,555 ---
474 | Ashton 11,114 46,646 33,852 12,794 15,554 *-
475 | Oldham 6,528 38,174 25,130 13,044 24,488 *-
476 Rochdale 8,261 29,229 19,466 9,763 19,239 -
477 Haslingden 5,541 22, 101 13,486 8,615 19,357 *º-sºº.
478 Burnley 6,073 25,629 16,484 9,145 11,727 *-
479 | Clitheroe 1,596 6,502 4,474 2,028 - 1892
480 | Blackburn . 10, 180 42,610 27,750 14,860 29,204 -**
481 Chorley 2,879 14,342 8,575 5,767 3,977 s-
482 | Preston 10,669 39, 176 28,130 11,046 13,978 *-*.
483 || Fylde . 1,574 7,475 4,499 2,976 3,680 **
484 || Garstang 788 3,984 2,243 1,741 - 270
485 | Lancaster 2,814. 11,638 7,976 3,662 637 -
486 | Ulverston 2,344 11,812 6,644 5,768 5,782 *-

The above tables represent the aggregate population of certain populous areas and places; but it is
thought desirable to exhibit as fully as practicable, within the limits of this work, the population of every
parish, and indeed of every township, in Lancashire; and this not only according to the last census in 1861
(which specifies also the numbers of each sex), but also at every preceding census, commencing with that of
1801. The following table, compiled with some care and labour, exhibits for the first time the population of
every parish, township, hamlet, and chapelry in Lancashire, enumerated in the official census at the seven
periods specified. The first column gives the name of the place or group of places—p. denoting parish, t.
township, d, division, ex. extra-parochial, h. hamlet, and c. chapelry. The second column gives the area of
the place or places in statute acres, the Small W denoting the presence of water within such area. The next
Seven columns show the total population in the years named, that of 1861 being printed in bolder figures to
distinguish it as the last enumeration of the people; and the two last columns show the numbers of males
and females in each place in 1861:—



º e Area 1861. 1861. 1861.
Parish, Township, or Place infº| 1801. 1811. 1821. 1881. 1841. 1851. p.s. ..., |r.
Liverpool, p. . . 2,220w 77,653 94,376 |118,972 |165,175 |223,003 |258,236 269,742 |132,842 |136,900
Toxteth Park, p. e 3,768w 2,069 5,864 | 12,829 24,067 41,295 || 61,334 69,284 || 32,870 || 36,414
Walton-on-the-Hill, p. 29,233W 4,534 5,688 || 8,461 | 12,962 21,053 || 46,302 | 85,058 40,713 44,345
Everton, t. º 700 || 499 913 2,109 || 4,518 9,221 25,883 54,848 26,078 28,770
Rirkdale, t. e 1,132w| 393 665 1,273 2,591 || 4,268 9,893 16,135 | 7,898 || 8,237 |
Walton-on-the-Hill, t. 1,886 | 681 794 | 1,171 1,400 1,759 2,469 3,598 || 1,612 1,986
Booth-cum-Linacre, t. 1,781 w 537 610 808 1,133 1,962 4,106 6,414 || 3,017 3,397
Fazakerley, t. . 1,688 272 329 4.18 407 428 427 407 200 207
Rirkby, t. 3,920 | 833 912 | 1,035 | 1,190 | 1,476 | 1,460 | 1,415 745 670 |
Sefton, p. . . 21,168w 2,412 2,852 | 3,433 || 4,485 6,164 || 7,278 || 10,159 || 4,449 || 5,710
Great Crosby, c. 5,627W 425 499 674 1,201 | 1,946 2,403 || 3,794 | 1,545 2,249
Little Crosby, t. 6,241W 317 353 359 414 394 407 418 214 204
Ince Blundell, t. 2,258 || 419 413 472 505 528 561 572 282 290
Thornton, t. 773 230 239 300 342 326 298 291 I36 155
Illnt, t. 476 65 75 67 59 75 78 37 41
Sefton, t. 1,233 483 357 389 403 430 433 430 229 201
Netherton, t. 1,093 I80 186 273 289 258 286 157 I 29
Aintree, t. e 825 238 260 247 311 312 300 158 142
Orrell and Ford, t. 728 538 146 217 244 295 279 358 157 201
Litherland, t. . 1,914 w 362 501 789 1,586 2,252 3,632 | 1,534 2,098
West Derby, p. . 6,123 2,636 || 3,698 || 6,304 || 9,663 | 16,864 32,973 || 52,694 | 24,369 || 28,325
Croxteth Park, ex. 935 14 20 30 42 57 41 46 25 21
Childwall, p. . 19,327W 4,194 || 5,383 || 6,618 7,706 || 10,714 || 14,409 || 17,917 | 8,255 9,662
Childwall, t. 828 I52 I62 127 1.59 186 I66 174 78 96
Wavertree, t. 1,796 860 1,390 1,620 1,932 2,669 4,011 5,392 2,312 3,080
Allerton, t. 1,531 178 258 328 374 443 482 559 260 299
Garston, t. 3,293W 458 597 874 | 1,147 | 1,888 2,756 || 4,720 2,218 2,502
Speke, t. . 5,492w 374 409 462 514 548 534 571 307 264
Hale, t. 3,791 537 527 630 572 645 629 648 307 341
Halewood, t. 3,759 777 903 934 930 1,101 1,146 1,205 582 623
Little Woolton, t. 1,200 || 419 528 673 734 969 | 1,016 | 1,062 471 591
Much Woolton, t. 930 439 601 970 1,344 2,216 || 3,616 || 3,546 | 1,704 || 1,842
Thingwall, h. . e e ∈ • * * • * * - - - • * * 49 53 40 I6 24
Huyton, p. 9,087 2,013 || 2,402 || 3,046 || 3,412 || 3,749 3,952 4,054 | 1,888 2,166
Tarbock, t. 2,447 412 534 699 755 740 681 626 312 314
616 (The #istorm of £ancashire—ºnnemba.
1 Three parishes carved out of Winwick.
Parish, Township, or Place insºt, 1861. 1861. 1861.
arish, Township, or Place |º 1801. 1811. 1821. 1831. 1841. 1851. p. | M. F.,
Roby, t. . 980 862 955 310 401 444 490 467 208 259
Huyton, t. 1,630 863 | 1,094 | 1,263 | 1,295 | 1,612 694 918
Knowsley, t. 4,750 739 913 | 1,174 1,162 | 1,302 | 1,486 1,349 674 675
Prescot, p. . 36,554"|17,152 | 19,738 22,811 28,084 35,902 || 46,527 | 63,540 32,442 || 31,098
Cronton, t. 1,121 311 334 358 293 402 439 412 198 214
Ditton, t. 2,072W 401 422 455 466 513 584 764 389 375
Widnes, t. 3,330"| 1,063 | 1,204 || 1,439 1,986 2,209 || 3,217 | 6,905 || 3,585 3,320
Bold, t. 4,338 713 773 818 866 712 773 798 423 375
Rainhill, t. 1,642 402 545 640 679 1,164 | 1,522 2,130 | 1,025 1,105
Whiston, t. 1,793 | 1,031 1,015 1,306 I,468 1,586 1,825 1,727 | 852 875
Prescot, t. 270 || 3,465 3,678 4,468 5,505 || 5,451 6,393 || 5,136 2,503 || 2,633
Eccleston, t. 3,387 1,362 | 1,584 1,931 3,259 6,247 | 8,509 || 11,640 6,018 5,622
Sutton, t. 3,616 | 1,776 2,114 || 2,329 || 3,173 || 4,095 || 5,288 || 9,223 || 4,677 || 4,546
Parr, t. . 1,601 | 1,183 | 1,405 | 1,523 1,942 3,310 || 4,875 8,253 || 4,341 || 3,912
Windle, t. 2,907 || 3,252 4,294 4,820 5,825 6,918 9,370 12,229 6,153 6,076
Rainford, t. 5,803 || 1,185 | 1,315 1,375 1,642 | 1,855 2,333 2,784 1,512 | 1,272
Simonswood, t. 2,862 274 364 390 411 493 470 461 267 194
Ormskirk, p. • 30,832 || 8,251 9,908 || 12,008 || 13,535 | 14,608 | 16,490 17,049 8,574 8,475
Bickerstaffe, t. 6,353 | 811 911 | 1,212 1,309 | 1,579 | 1,667 1,637 885 752
Melling, t. 2,120 | 402 471 528 559 607 662 728 375 353
Halsall, p. 16,658 2,701 3,017 | 3,538 4,159 || 4,445 4,510 || 4,672 2,399 || 2,273
Maghull, c. 2,073 534 599 720 957 | 1,032 | 1,056 | 1,144 571 573
Lydiate, c. 1,995 || 532 614 691 770 848 842 848 404 444
Aughton, p. 4,462 | 987 | 1,032 1,279 | 1,462 | 1,560 | 1,655 | 1,870 909 961
Halsall, t. . 6,996 || 751 781 970 | 1,169 1,218 1,194 | 1,204 647 557
Down Holland, t. 3,474 482 552 629 704 740 756 748 402 346
Altcar, p. º 4,284W 271 408 499 505 490 501 540 291 249
Formby, t. - 15,264"| 1,045 1,101 1,257 1,312 1,446 1,594 1,780 896 884
North Meols, p. . 24,54Iw| 2,456 2,887 3,177 5,650 8,331 9,319 15,947 6,855 9,092
Birkdale, t. . º - 5,670w 360 39|| 414 518 577 625 1,286 53I. 755
North Meols, t. . . . 18,871w 2,096 || 2,496 || 2,763 5,132 7,774 8,694 || 14,661 | 6,324 || 8,337
Hesketh with Becconsall, p. 3,632w 353 347 476 523 553 692 804. 435 369
Tarleton, p. . . . 5,405 | 1,116 | 1,281 | 1,616 1,886 1,877 1,945 1,987 | 1,041 946
Rufford, p. 3,102 853 998 1,073 869 866 86] 865 462 403
Ormskirk, t. 572 2,554 3,064 3,838 4,251 4,891 6, 183 6,426 3,092 3,334
Burscough, t. . 4,959 1,139 1,492 | 1,755 2,244 2,228 2,480 2,461 | 1,234 1,227
Scarisbrick, t. . 8,377 | 1,154 | 1,386 1,584 1,783 | 1,957 2,109 || 2,112 | 1,089 | 1,023
Skelmersdale, t. 1,920 414 541 622 676 691 760 1,028 546 482
Lathom, t. 8,651 2,179 2,514 2,997 || 3,272 3,262 3,291 3,385 | 1,728 1,657
Bispham, t. 926 172 242 254 256 306 270 277 150 127
Eccleston, p. . 8,361 2,133 2,491 || 2,801 3,068 3,319 3,115 || 3,496 || 1,792 | 1,704
Wrightington, t. 3,876 1,140 1,268 1,461 1,601 | 1,771 1,613 1,615 828 790
Parbold, t. - º 1,165 255 348 339 382 418 473 474 238 236
Shevington, t. º - 1,706 646 726 836 899 1,122 1,147 1,615 865 750
Standish with Langtree, t. 3,257 | 1,542 1,770 2,065 2,407 || 2,565 2,655 3,054 | 1,593 1,461
Worthington, t. o 657 III 114 143 124 I 33 176 133 76 57
Blackrod, t. 2,367 | 1,623 2,111 || 2,436 2,591 2,615 2,509 || 2,911 | 1,546 | 1,365
Wigan, p. 28,433 |25,552 || 31,481 || 38,318 44,486 || 51,998 || 63,287 78,190 39,135 | 39,055
Haigh, t. 2,109 || 798 || 1,118 1,300 | 1,271 | 1,363 | 1,220 | 1,171 594 577
Aspull, t. . 1,879 1,253 | 1,650 | 1,894 || 2,464 2,772 3,278 || 4,290 2,228 2,062
Wigan, t. e º 2,161 10,989 14,060 17,716 20,774 || 25,382 31,941 37,658 18,463 | 19,195
Ince in Makerfield, t. 2,314 962 | 1,065 1,362 | 1,903 2,565 3,670 8,266 || 4,261 4,005
Hindley, t. 2,522 2,332 2,962 3,757 || 4,575 5,459 || 7,023 8,477 || 4,295 || 4,182
Abram, t. e 1,965 475 502 504 511 901 968 911 476 435
Winstanley, t. . 1,853 631 74.1 800 731 681 675 633 312 321
Pemberton, t. . 2,868 2,309 || 2,934 3,679 || 4,276 || 4,394 5,252 6,870 3,390 || 3,480
Orrell, t. . 1,542 | 1,883 2,002 || 2,106 || 2,518 2,478 2,762 2,932 1,479 1,453
Dalton, t. - g 2,090 352 464 482 468 483 462 453 234 219
Upholland, t. . . . 4,452 2,427 2,663 3,042 3,040 3,113 3,359 || 3,463 | 1,787 | 1,676
Billinge, Higher End, t. },549 || 1,141 555 670 676 712 900 1,051 557 494
Billinge, Lower End, t. 1,129 |ſ * 765 | 1,002 | 1,279 | 1,550 | 1,777 2,015 | 1,059 956
Ashton-in-Makerfield, t, 5,557 3,696 || 4,747 | 5,674 5,912 || 5,410 || 5,679 6,566 || 3,424 3,142
Winwick, p. . . 25,148 12,290 14,290 | 16,229 17,961. 18, 148 || 19,934 7041, 373 331
Haydock, t. . e 2,362 734 805 916 934 1,296 1,994 3,615 1,980 1,635
Newton-in-Makerfield t. . . 2,692 | 1,455 | 1,589 | 1,643 || 2,139 || 3,126 3,719 5,909 || 3,154 2,755
Southworth with Croft, t. 1,851 956 1,016 1,257 1,329 1,155 | 1,097 1,094 559 535
Houghton, Middleton, and -
Arbury, t. . º o 839 295 273 280 286 293 238 253 I 32 I2]
Winwick with Hulme, t. 1,431 573 570 602 603 549 469 451 241 210
Warrington, p . e 12,168 |13, 180 14,614 | 16,698 || 19,155 21,901 || 23,651 26,960 | 13,164 13,796
Burton Wood, t. 4,144 773 868 9II 944 836 831 990 546 444
Great Sankey, t. 1,909 431 466 551 563 567 527 563 267 296
Cuerdley, t. 1,717 w 251 248 321 319 22I 193 192 101 91
Penketh, t. 1,048 326 341 477 548 652 6.79 784 398 386
(Tije Đigturn of 3Lancašijire—3 unemba. 617


pain. Twº or Pºe lºwl isol. isn. isol. isºl. is. isºl. " | * *
arism, 'LOWnship, Or Place. Acres. * g te -- * - & 851. Persons. | Males. | Females.
Warrington, t. 2,507 || 10,567 11,738 || 13,570 16,018 18,981 | 20,800 24,050 | 11,622 | 12,428
Grappenhall, p. 2,550 | 1,092 | 1,305 | 1,652 2,607 || 2,948 || 3,250 3,586 1,774 1,812
Latchford, t. 1,910 754 944 1,252 2,166 2,361 2,542 2,885 1,421 | 1,464
Grappenhall, t. 1,540 338 36] 400 441 587 708 701 353 348
Thelwall, t. . . . 1,417 309 326 327 332 334 347 468 265 203
Poulton with Fearnhead, t. 1,233 417 560 631 709 693 708 672 334 338
Woolston with Martinscroft, t. 1,444 542 562 596 578 548 516 496 259 237
Rixton with Glazebrook, t. 2,840 88.1 886 990 906 843 796 752 403 349
Kenyon, t. . . . 1,597 384 415 396 349 323 293 274 144 130
Golborne, ecc. p. 1,634 962 1,111 | 1,310 | 1,532 1,657 | 1,910 2,776 1,292 | 1,484
Lowton, ecc. p. 1,824 | 1,402 | 1,647 1,988 || 2,374 2,150 2,140 2,384 1,174 1,210
Culcheth, t. 5,361 | 1,833 2,117 | 2,163 2,503 || 2, 193 2,395 2,214 | 1,096 | 1,118
Leigh, p. . 13,194 | 12,976 15,565 | 18,372 | 20,083 22,229 || 25,996 || 30,052 14,354 || 15,698
Astley, t. 2,628 1,545 1,723 1,882 | 1,832 2,011 || 2,237 2,109 | 1,048 || 1,061
Bedford, t. 2,438 1,985 2,372 2,830 3,087 || 4,187 5,384 6,558 || 3,130 || 3,428
Pennington, t. 1,437 | 1,759 || 2,124 2,782 3,165 3,833 || 4,573 5,015 2,377 2,638
West Leigh, t. 1,894 | 1,429 | 1,960 2,408 || 2,780 3,005 || 3,750 4,434 2,138 2,296
Atherton, t. . . . 2,323 3,249 3,894 || 4,145 || 4,181 || 4,475 4,655 5,907 2,819 3,088
Tyldesley-cum-Shakerley, t. 2,474 3,009 || 3,492 || 4,325 5,038 4,718 5,397 6,029 2,842 3,187
Dean, p. . . . . 19,340 | 12,843 | 16,129 18,916 22,994 || 26,217 | 29,819 || 35,746 || 17,307 | 18,439
Kersley, t. tº 900 | 1,082 1,388 1,833 2,705 || 3,436 4,236 5,003 2,424 2,579
Farnworth, t. . 1,450 1,439 1,798 2,044 2,928 4,829 6,389 8,720 || 4,113 4,607
Little-Hulton, t. 1,470 | 1,498 || 1,886 2,465 2,981 3,058 3, 184 3,390 | 1,725 | 1,665
Middle-Hulton, t. 1,280 819 900 938 934 902 888 790 408 382
Over-Hulton, t. 1,300 619 612 591 538 445 452 447 235 212
Rumworth, t. . 1,300 700 768 847 | 1,164 1,298 || 1,386 1,861 914 947
Westhoughton, t. 4,460 || 3,059 || 3,810 || 4,211 || 4,500 || 4,527 | 4,547 5,156 2,531 || 2,625
Heaton, t. © 1,630 677 765 826 719 713 826 955 446 509
Halliwell, t. 2,320 | 1,385 | 1,828 2,288 2,963 || 3,242 || 3,959 5,953 || 2,825 3,128
Horwich, t. . 3,230 | 1,565 2,374 2,873 || 3,562 3,773 || 3,952 3,471 | 1,686 1,785
Bolton-le-Moors, p. 30,062 29,826 || 39,701 || 60,197 || 63,034 | 73,905 | 87,280 | 97,215 46,961 50,254
#: t. . 1,426 509 540 576 606 625 620 580 ; ;
aulgh, t. 1,266 1,360 2,018 978 1,040
Tonge, t. . . 1,080 | 1,158 1,402 | 1,678 2,201 |} i.; £º ºf #3 | "#3;
Breightmet, t. . 970 734 852 963 | 1,026 1,309 1,540 1,562 750 812
Barwood, t. 1,100 | 1,281 | 1,430 | 1,809 || 2,011 | 1,996 || 2,057 2,055 | 1,048 || 1,007
Bradshaw, t. 1,380 380 582 713 773 827 853 792 408 384
Turton, t. 4,110 | 1,369 1,782 2,090 2,563 3,577 || 4,158 4,513 2,110 || 2,403
Longworth, t. . 1,590 249 226 238 179 149 152 154 80 74
Entwisle, t. . 1,450 447 57.1 677 701 555 486 422 218 204
Edgeworth, t. . 2,480 | 1,003 | 1,302 1,729 2,168 1,697 | 1,230 1,350 677 673
Quarlton, t. 500 238 295 320 376 370 361 253 124 I 29
Sharples, t. 3,920 873 1,374 2,065 2,589 2,880 3,904 3,294 | 1,585 | 1,709
Little Bolton, t. 1,450 4,867 || 7,079 || 9,258 12,896 || 15,707 || 19,888 24,942 | 11,921 || 13,021
Great Bolton, t. 820 | 12,549 || 17,070 22,037 || 28,299 || 33,610 39,923 || 43,435 | 20,860 22,575
Great Lever, t. 770 398 613 63] 637 657 713 722 337 385
Little Lever, c. 1,020 | 1,276 | 1,586 | 1,854 2,231 2,580 || 3,511 3,890 | 1,916 | 1,974
Darcy Lever, t. 540 589 792 956 1,119 1,700 2,091 2,071 1,021 | 1,050
Bury, p. . . . . . 24,320 22,300 27,917 | 34,335 | 47,627 | 62,125 || 70,143 80,558 || 38,911 || 41,647
Walmersley-cum-Shuttle- •
worth, t. . . . 5,056 2,166 2,619 || 3,290 || 3,456 4,533 4,562 5,037 2,442 2,595
Tottington-Lower-End, t. 5,038 4,314 || 5,917 7,333 9,280 9,929 || 10,691 11,764 5,792 5,972
Birtle-cum-Bamford, t. 1,388 753 | 1,055 | 1,207 | 1,650 | 1,722 | 1,840 2,350 | 1,162 | 1,188
Ashworth, t. c 1,022 295 261 280 294 325 277 233 124 109
Heap, t. 2,934 || 4,283 || 5,148 6,552 | 10,429 14,857 | 16,048 || 17,353 | 8,179 || 9,174
Hopwood, t. 2,043 948 || 1,083 1,384 1,413 | 1,545 | 1,575 2,281 | 1,147 | 1,134
Pilsworth, t. 1,478 418 454 499 443 414 373 343 184 159
Radcliffe, p. 2,466 2,497 2,792 || 3,089 3,904 || 5,099 6,293 8,838 4,299 || 4,539
Elton, t. 2,521 2,080 2,540 2,897 || 4,054 || 4,811 6,066 8,172 3,949 || 4,223
Bury, t. . 2,370 | 7,072 8,762 | 10,583 | 15,086 20,710 25,484 || 30,397 || 14,727 | 15,670
Ainsworth, t. 1,296 | 1,240 | 1,422 | 1,609 | 1,584 | 1,598 || 1,781 1,803 887 916
Pilkington, t. . 5,378 5,786 7,353 || 8,976 11,006 || 11,186 | 12,863 | 12,303 || 5,960 6,343
Eccles, p. . . 20,240 | 16,119 || 19,502 || 23,331 28,083 || 33,792 || 41,497 52,679 24,749 27,930
Clifton, t. 820 812 904 || 1,168 1,277 | 1,360 | 1,647 2,140 | 1,084 || 1,056
Worsley, t. * 6,240 || 5,062 6,151 || 7,191 || 7,839 || 8,337 || 10,189 11,875 5,766 6,109
Barton-upon-Irwell, t. 10,530 6,197 6,948 || 7,977 | 8,976 | 10,865 | 12,687 || 14,216 || 6,695 || 7,521
Flixton, p. . g 2,549 | 1,625 | 1,982 2,249 2,099 || 2,230 2,064 2,050 999 || 1,051
Flixton, t. 1,575 | 1,093 | 1,387 | 1,604 || 1,393 || 1,459 | 1,334 1,302 635 667
Urmston, t. 974 532 595 645 706 771 730 748 364 384
Stretford, t. 3, 140 | 1,477 | 1,720 | 2,173 || 2,463 || 3,524 || 4,998 8,757 3,887 || 4,870
Manchester, p. * 33,553 |112,300 |136,370 187,031 |270,963 |353,390 |451,754 529,245 |250,516 |278,729
Manchester, t. e 1,480 || 70,409 || 79,459 |108,016 ||142,026 163,856 | 186,986 185,410 | 87,962 | 97,448
Chorlton-cum-Hardy, t. 1,265 513 619 624 668 632 761 739 360 379
Withington, t. * 2,498 743 91] 892 | 1,048 1,277 | 1,492 2,712 | 1,230 | 1,482
Didsbury, t. 1,527 619 738. 933 | 1,067 | 1,248 1,449 1,829 824 | 1,005
4 K
618 QThe #istory of £antagüirt–ºblemba.
pain. Twº or Pº lºw 1811. | 1 1831. 1841 1. 1861. 1861. , 1861.
arish, 'LOWnship, or Place. ACreS. 801. 811. 821. º * 1851. Persons. | Males. | Females.
Burnage t. 658 383 454 513 507 489 563 624 285 339
Levenshulme, t. 605 628 674 768 1,086 1,231 1,902 2,095 981 1,114
Rusholme, t. 956 726 796 913 | 1,078 1,868 || 3,679 5,380 2,426 2,954
Gorton, t. 1,429 1,127 1, 183 1,604 2,623 2,422 4,476 9,897 4,946 4,951
Openshaw, t. 571 339 459 497 838 2,280 || 3,759 8,623 4,462 || 4,161
Ardwick, t. º e º 470 1,762 2,763 3,545 5,524 9,906 || 15,777 21,757 | 10,486 || 11,271
Chorlton-upon-Medlock, t. 700 675 2,581 8,209 | 20,569 28,336 || 35,588 44,795 20,423 24,372
Moss Side, t. . e - 430 150 156 I72 208 436 943 2,695 | 1,072 | 1,623
Hulme, t. 440 | 1,677 || 3,081 || 4,234 || 9,624 26,645 53,482 | 68,433 || 32,825 | 35,608
Broughton, t. 960 866 825 880 | 1,589 || 3,794 || 7,126 9,885 4,063 5,822
Salford, t, 1,220 | 13,611 | 19,114 25,772 | 40,786 53,200 | 63,423 71,002 || 34,820 36,682
Pendleton, t. 1,720 3,611 || 4,805 || 5,948 8,435 | II,032 || 14,224 20,900 9,438 || 11,462
Pendlebury t. . 930 437 694 | 1,047 | 1,556 2,198 || 2,750 3,548 1,766 1,782
Bradford, t. 279 94 | 106 95 166 911 1,572 3,523 1,780 1,743
Newton, t. 1,585 | 1,295 | 1,784 2,577 || 4,377 6,127 | 10,801 || 14,907 || 7,255 7,652
Beswick, t. 60 6 14 35 248 345 404 881 420 46]
Cheetham, t. 919 752 | 1,170 2,027 | 4,025 6,082 | 11,175 17,446 7,967 || 9,479
Crumpsall, t. 733 452 628 910 1,878 2,745 3, 151 4,285 1,886 2,399
Failsworth, t. . 1,064 2,622 || 2,875 3,358 || 3,667 || 3,879 4,433 5,113 || 2,515 2,598
Moston, t. 1,271 618 614 593 645 472 904 1,199 568 631
Harpurhey, t. . 192 II.8 172 297 463 438 458 827 361 466
Blackley, t. . . - 1,764 2,361 2,389 2,911 || 3,020 3,202 || 3,503 4,112 | 1,980 2,132
Prestwich-cum-Oldham, p. . 21,625 || 31,065 || 41,342 52,510 || 67,579 || 78,545 94,470 117,961 57,637 60,324
Prestwich, t. º 1,906 | 1,811 || 2,175 2,724 2,941 || 3,180 || 4,096 || 5,288 2,458 || 2,830
Great Heaton, t. 866 267 234 224 181 I59 150 159 83 76
Little Heaton, t. 509 494 626 630 771 808 800 838 423 415
Ashton-under-Lyne, p. 9,300 15,632 | 19,052 25,967 || 33,597 || 46,304 || 56,959 | 66,801 || 31,479 || 35,322
Knott Lanes, d. e - - - 7,855 9,574 3,827 }16 883 { 5,521 6,044 7,312 3,613 3,699
Ashton Town, d. - - - , Ö09 , Of 9,222 || “” 22,678 29,791 || 33,917 | 15,856 | 18,061
Droylsden, t. 1,611 | 1,552 2,201 || 2,855 2,996 || 4,933 || 6,280 | 8,798 || 4,211 || 4,587
Audenshaw, d. * - - 2,275 2,772 3,781 4,891 || 5,374 || 5,427 6,327 3,030 3,297
Denton, t. 1,647 | 1,362 1,594 | 2,012 || 2,792 || 3,440 3,146 3,335 | 1,640 | 1,695
Haughton, t. 1,130 | 1,139 1,526 2,084 2,914 3,319 || 3,042 3,371 1,633 | 1,738
Godley, t. 639 270 451 514 636 | 1,399 || 1,353 1,185 548 637
sº * 868 || 1,005 | 1,445 2,159 || 5,997 || 7,501 ſº 6,440 || 2,916 3,524
ukinfield, t. . e - Fºr 2,132 15,024 || 7, 101 7,923
nºse | 1,000 | 1,787 3,058 5,096 14,681 22,894 {##| Hº 6,736 || $193
artshead, d. . & * }-y #-y 19,223 12,454 5,868 6,586
with Stalybridge . . ! e - e. 5,502 6,706 || 9,187 | 11,828 12,781 |{* | *; ; ;
Mottram, p. º - 23,279 5,949 7,665 10,086 15,536 21,215 23,354 22,495 || 10,489 | 12,006
Hattersley, t. 1,072 455 473 563 477 610 497 | 400 210 I90
Mottram, t. 1,079 948 1,446 | 1,944 2,144 3,247 3,199 || 3,406 | 1,582 1,824
Hollinworth, t. 2,041 910 | 1,089 | 1,393 | 1,760 2,012 2,347 || 2,155 | 1,003 || 1,152
Tintwisle, t. 14, 120 1,021 1,346 1,580 1,820 1,744 3,027 1,691 813 878
Micklehurst, h. * - - * - - - - - • * * - - - 546 619 800 398 402
Stayley, t. 2,760 | 1,055 | 1,104 | 1,609 || 2,440 || 3,905 || 4,579 || 4,187 2,899 || 3,288
§. t. | - 700 285 3.11 324 262 251 252 1. º 120 III
ldham, below town - 21,986 28,732 41,770 20,685 21,085
Oldham, above town 4,617 | 12,024 | 16,690 21,662 || 32,381 { 20,609 || 24,088 30,563 || 14,876 15,687
Chadderton, t. 2,978 || 3,452 4,133 5,124 5,476 5,397 6,188 7,486 || 3,711 3,775
Tonge, t. 367 7II 1,126 1,390 1,800 2,423 3,831 || 4,606 || 2,292 || 2,314
Middleton, t. 1,908 || 3,265 4,422 || 5,809 || 6,903 || 7,740 | 8,717 | 9,876 || 4,866 || 5,010
Alkrington, t. . 788 319 349 365 367 338 373 423 202 221
Thornham, t. 1,998 674 | 1,098 || 1,374 1,455 1,456 1,510 2,027 | 1,044 983
Royton, t. 1,352 2,719 3,910 || 4,933 || 5,652 5,730 6,974 7,493 || 3,565 3,928
Crompton, t. 2,864 || 3,482 || 4,746 6,482 7,004 || 6,729 || 6,375 || 7,032 || 3,382 3,650
Rochdale, p. º - - 58,620 | 39,757 || 49,808 || 61,011 || 74,427 | 84,718 98,013 | 119,531 || 58,083 61,448
Butterworth, Freehold side -
and Lordship side, and t. 3,930 4,872 5,554 5,648 5,088 5,786 6,704 || 3,413 3,291
Castleton without and with- - - - -
in, t. . • • - 5,460 6,723 7,894 | 11,079 || 14,279 || 17,400 || 23,771 11,369 | 12,402
Spotland, nearer and fur-
ther side, t. 9,031 10,968 13,453 15,325 | 18,480 23,476 || 30,378 14,833 || 15,545
Wardleworth, t. . 3,289 || 4,345 6,451 || 9,360 | 11,400 || 14,103 || 17,840 | 8,521 || 9,319
Wuerdle and Wardle, t. 3,220 4,189 || 5,629 || 6,754 6,875 || 7,855 8,201 || 3,929 || 4,272
Blatchinworth with Calder-
brook, t. -> º - a s e 1,647 || 2,480 3,143 4,221 4,456 3,895 4,860 |. 2,419 2,441
Whalley, p. . . . 104,689 49,685 63,377 | 85,194 | 98,777 || 112,741 134,196 | 167,456 81,774 85,682
Newchurch-in-Rossendale, t. 9,650 5,046 6,930 | 8,557 || 9,196 || 11,668 16,915 24,413 11,886 12,527
Higher Booths, t. . . 2,000 | 1,661 2,568 3,172 4,347 3,652 3,827 5,131 || 2,587 2,544
Lower Booths, t. - 630 934 1,178 1,513 2,178 2,464 3,778 4,655 2,178 2,477
Cowpe, Lenches, etc., t. . 1,545 676 786 1,224 1,519 1,716 2,154 2,851 1,412 1,439
Tottington-Higher-End, t. 3,686 1,246 1,556 1,728 2,572 | 3,446 2,958 3,726 1,800 | 1,926
Musbury, t. . . . 1,170 463 589 728 1,231 | 1,386 1,228 997 483 514
Haslingden, t. e 4,420 4,040 5,127 | 6,595 | 7,776 8,063 9,030 | 10,109 || 4,922 || 5,187 |
(The #istorm of 3Lancašijirt——ºbbemba. 619

Parish. Township. OT Pl in sºul isol. isn. isol. isºl. Isa. isºl. 1861. ºl. .”
arish, 'LOWnship, OT Place. ACreS. e * t - o tº Persons. | Males. | Females.
Henheads, t. . 360 |22 I95 246 202 176 160 211 106 105
Old Accrington, t. 740 831 885 | 1,261 | 1,323 1,811 || 2,266 || 5,835 | 2,812 3,023
New Accrington, t. . 2,480 2,246 2,381 || 4,109 || 4,960 | 6,908 || 8,108 || 11,853 || 5,755 6,098
Dunnockshaw, t. 350 60 63 76 46 41 86 167 89 78
Cliviger, t. g º e 6,160 | 1,058 1,193 1,314 | 1,598 || 1,395 | 1,441 1,770 945 825
. Worsthorne with Hurst- -
wood, t. . . . . 2,800 443 309 631 798 817 909 865 461 404
Briercliffe with Entwisle, t. 4,180 956 1,220 1,407 | 1,755 1,498 1,612 1,332 680 652
Reedley Hallows, etc., t. . 1,360 408 415 422 468 412 374 423 216 207
Burnley, t. . . . 1,839 3,305 || 4,368 6,378 7,551 10,699 || 14,706 || 19,971 || 9,639 || 10,332
Habergham Eaves, t. 4,007 | 1,919 2,839 || 4,612 || 5,817 | 8,526 12,549 | 18,013 || 8,740 9,273
Ightonhill Park, t. 752 126 107 208 164 I58 176 161 81 80
Huncoat, t. 960 450 514 629 502 467 598 839 419 420
Hapton, t. 3,570 395 533 568 583 541 550 1,003 509 494
Altham, t. 1,406 328 383 439 413 349 426 410 216 194
Read, t. º 1,490 311 419 510 510 467 449 531 263 268
Simonstone, t. . 900 298 336 396 440 416 365 325 I56 169
Padiham, t. . 1,917 | 2,118 2,556 || 3,060 3,529 3,789 || 4,509 || 5,911 || 2,861 3,050
Higham, etc., t. 1,400 583 742 891 | 1,038 960 839 7.59 384 375
Heyhouses, t. . 320 156 145 187 155 156 147 128 72 56
Little Marsden, t. 1,470 ! 2,322 2,876 2,052 2,742 3,171 3,997 5,162 2,563 2,599
Great Marsden, t. 2,890 5 2 1,893 1,971 1,987 2,071 2,180 1,090 1,090
Trawden, t. 2,510 1,443 1,941 2,507 2,853 2,900 2,601 2,087 1,050 1,037
Foulridge, t. 2,450 833 || 1,032 | 1,307 | 1,418 1,458 || 1,233 988 504 484
Colne, t. . 4,575 3,626 5,336 || 7,274 8,080 | 8,615 8,987 || 7,906 || 3,796 || 4,110
Barrowford, t. . 1,540 1,224 1,721 2,168 2,633 2,630 2,875 2,880 1,393 1,487
Wheatley Carr, t. . 200 42 65 69 58 53 40 46 29 17
Old Laund Booth, t. 410 287 316 390 476 481 447 423 204 219
Roughlie Booth, t. 1,320 684 795 958 949 782 719 424 215 209
Goldshaw Booth, t. . 980 516 626 819 763 748 620 406 194 212
Barley, etc., Booth, t. 2,370 528 566 765 || 707 686 542 485 236 249
Gisburn, p. . . . 17,953 1,959 || 2,209 2,530 || 2,306 || 2,191 1,976 | 1,756 948 808
Middop, t. 1,090 87 95 100 62 8]. 55 57 35 22
Rimmington, t. 3,082 487 596 698 701 722 607 501 250 251
Gisburn, t. 2,028 485 509 690 607 543 518 534 308 226
Horton, t. º 2,018 144 181 187 200 I56 152 129 71 58
Newsholme, t. . 74.1 78 70 75 70 55 53 52 27 25
Paythorne, t. 2,627 198 240 242 187 201 206 126 69 57
Gisburn. Forest, t. 4,756 396 439 457 400. 372 336 301 160 141
Bolton by Bowland, p. 5,792 996 1,072 1,205 1,174 933 962 739 372 367
Salley, ex. . . 2,240 552 564 56] 588 359 301 254 || 144 II.0
Slaidburn, p. 40,321 | 1,908 || 2,175 2,223 2,065 | 1,792 | 1,682 | 1,480 788 692
Easington, t. 9,090 376 451 50] 424 409 352 338 184 154
Slaidburn, t. e 5,617 631 758 904 920 74.1 708 579 289 290
Newton, t. e - e 6,556 378 498 58]. 544 461 449 394 223 171.
Bowland, higher d.;forest,t. I9,058 523 468 237 177 181 173 169 92 77
Do. forest, lower d. t. 2 - 360 344 330 335 319 179 140
Little Bowland, t. . e - 133 117 123 62 61
Leagram, t. - e | 7,690 318 328 370 288 |} iſ i. 111 64 47
Chipping, p. 8,756 1,214 | 1,440 | 1,735 | 1,850 | 1,675 1,625 1,483 752 731
Chipping, t. . . . 5,577 827 | 1,007 | 1,229 | 1,334 1,168 1,134 || 1,074 539 535
Thornley, with Wheatley, t. 3,179 387 433 506 516 507 491 409 213 I96
Mitton, p. . . . 18,103 || 3,420 || 4,018 || 4,535 | 4,801 || 4,201 || 3,816 || 3,403 || 1,883 | 1,520
Chaighley, h. . . . 899 266 197 191 || 102 89
Aighton, h. . . ; 5,780 810 |} 1,296 || 1,487 | 1,980 |{ 1,234 1,166 1,109 699 410
Barley, h. g 251 298 250 200 I02 98
Bashall Eaves, t. 3,640 552 358 348 310 279 259 251 132 II9
Waddington, t. 1,800 481 ! 1,088 } 687 624 644 580 513 248 265
West Bradford, t. 1,700 e - - 5 564 522 366 355 289 149 140
Grindleton, t. . 3,733 927 1,022 1,125 1,103 902 826 666 350 316
Twiston, t. 849 189 215 236 222 199 161 141 77 64
Downham, t. 1,870 470 537 620 522 368 362 292 139 153
Chatburn, t. 720 415 481 552 591 500 503 521 261 260
Worston, t. 860 I28 157 I78 129 III 89 84 43 41
Mearley, t. 1,280 75 75 89 63 53 47 47 26 21
Clitheroe, t. 2,324 1,368 1,767 3,213 5,213 6,765 7,244 7,000 || 3,337 3,663
Pendleton, t. 2,800 914 930 | 1,319 | 1,205 | 1,469 | 1,308 1,446 672 774
Wiswall, t. 1,410 349 488 683 724 775 747 465 232 233
Whalley, t. . 1,890 876 | 1,004 || 1,058 1,151 | 1,010 945 806 407 399
Little Mitton, t. 1,450 | 76 76 99 70 74 74 62 35 27
Great Mitton, t. 1,450 200 254 324 262 212 183 184 101 83
Blackburn, p. - 45,269 || 33,631 || 39,899 || 53,350 | 59,791 || 71,711 | 84,919 || 110,349 || 53,032 || 57,317
Dinckley, t. . - 500 197 250 238 223 183 I5] 120 62 58
Billington Langho, t. 2,960 844 893 922 | 1,089 988 882 1,038 511 527
Salesbury, t. . . 1,150 236 295 427 433 399 388 331 I68 163
620 (The #istorg of £ancashire—ºbbemba.


& º Area 1861. 1861. 1861
Parish, Township, or Place, in Statute | 1801. 1811. 1821. 1831. 1841. 1851. $ g e
Acres. Persons. | Males. | Females.
Wilpshire, t. . & 940 275 29] 287 337 281 237 228 II.3 II5
Clayton-le-Moors, c. 950 1,130 | 1,423 1,963 2,171 2,602 || 3,292 || 4,682 2,247 2,435
Great Harwood, c. 2,510 | 1,659 | 1,676 || 2,104 || 2,436 2,273 2,548 || 4,070 2,000 || 2,070
Little Harwood, t, 730 104 I26 210 341 322 316 270 143 127
Rishton, t. 2,760 | 1,051 | 1,084 1,170 919 917 800 | 1,198 629 569
Ramsgrave, t. . 757 298 484 || 534 515 453 4.38 320 167 153
Clayton-le-Dale, t. 950 419 520 598 551 511 471 375 187 188
Osbaldeston, t. 980 252 278 319 349 | . 289 250 238 123 115
Balderston, t. . 1,710 615 636 705 658 585 660 532 250 282
Mellor, t. 1,830 | 1,439 1,548 1,981 2,071 1,844 1,668 1,398 678 720
Blackburn, t. 3,610 | 11,980 | 15,083 21,940 || 27,091 || 36,629 46,536 || 63,126 30,140 || 32,986
Church Kirk, t. 620 323 474 752 979 | 1,545 2,035 4,753 || 2,385 2,368
Oswaldtwisle, t. . . 4,770 2,710 || 3,512 || 4,960 5,897 || 6,655 7,654 || 7,701 || 3,813 3,888
Yate and Pickup Bank, t. 1,360 | 1,045 | 1,230 1,359 | 1,209 | 1,068 1,208 1,111 546 565
Over Darwen, t. g g 5,010 || 3,587 4,411 | 6,711 6,972 || 9,348 11,702 | 16,492 || 7,905 || 8,587
Eccleshill, t. 792 346 374 456 715 510 598 543 283 260
Lower Darwen, t. 2,490 | 1,646 | 1,805 || 2,238 || 2,667 3,077 3,521 3,301 | 1,618 1,683
Witton, t, 650 461 819 | 1,067 | 1,047 | 1,073 1,367 3,292 | 1,576 1,716
Pleasington, t. 1,600 614 599 625 633 517 428 422 218 204
Livesey, t. 1,890 1, 184 1,126 1,664 1,787 1,996 2,649 3,581 1,774 1,807
Tockholes, t. 2,050 758 | 1,077 1,269 1,124 | 1,023 939 820 409 411
Leyland, p. . 19,091 || 8,459 || 10,900 | 12,959 || 13,951 14,032 13,710 || 13,684 || 6,667 || 7,017
Hoghton, t. 2,227 | 1,301 | 1,698 || 2,111 || 2,198 || 1,706 | 1,373 1,201 616 585
Withnell, t. 3,557 765 | 1,049 1,146 1,251 | 1,705 | 1,975 2,059 958 1,101
Wheelton, t. 1,669 583 884 1, 186 1,519 1,331 1,041 1,260 . 628 632
Brindle, p. . . . 2,935 | 1,271 | 1,425 | 1,574 | 1,558 | 1,401 | 1,310 | 1,501 745 756
Whittle-le-Woods, t. 1,357 | 1,325 | 1,699 || 2,083 2,015 2,295 || 2,310 || 2,151 | 1,071 | 1,080
Clayton-le-Woods, t. 1,450 706 730 80]. 926 795 747 705 338 367
Cuerden, t. g -> 800 519 573 569 592 573 521 666 3.18 348
Leyland, t. 3,651 2,088 || 2,646 3,173 || 3,404 || 3,569 || 3,617 | 3,755 | 1,803 || 1,952
Euxton, t. 2,924 831 | 1,193 | 1,360 | 1,581 | 1,562 | 1,631 | 1,491 745 746
Anlezargh, t. 1,279 162 181 215 168 164 179 134 61 73
Rivington, t. 2,630 519 526 583 537 471 412 369 j93 176
Standish, p. 15,285 5,489 6,258 7,616 || 7,719 || 8,686 || 8,594 || 10,410 || 5,400 || 5,010
Anderton, t. 1,175 354 | 408 432 343 339 284 243 119 124
Adlington, t. º 1,062 470 640 | 1,043 | 1,082 | 1,130 | 1,090 | 1,975 990 985
Heath-Charnock, t. . 1,596 565 556 823 841 1,062 799 772 396 376
Chorley, p. . . . 3,571 || 4,516 || 5,182 || 7,315 9,282 | 13,139 12,684 || 15,013 || 7,247 || 7,766
Heapey, t. 1,456 341 428 530 465 496 495 396 190 206
Duxbury, t. 1,011 255 305 312 213 371 324 341 190 I5I
Coppull, t. . 2,279 832 927 | 1,017 908 || 1,031 1,107 | 1,230 639 591
Welsh Whittle, t. . 594 127 144 151 147 149 140 148 72 76
Charnock Richard, t. 1,498 587 668 794 755 784 872 899 460 439
Heskin, t. & & 1,235 249 309 274 324. 359 358 439 214 225
Eccleston, t. 2,085 489 566 727 761 771 671 965 512 453
Croston, p. t. 10,648 || 2,766 3,379 3,739 3,869 3,939 4,031 4,242 2,149 || 2,093
Mawdsley, t. 2,887 659 744 833 886 867 887 912 463 449
Croston, t. . 2,343 915 1,211 | 1,367 1,398 || 1,456 1,500 | 1,790 879 9]. I
Bretherton, t. . 2,405 567 653 748 828 833 818 775 411 364
Ulnes-Walton, t. 2,087 453 529 537 50i 477 556 488 246 242
Hoole, p. . g 2,923W 596 744 860 934 989 977 1,132 566 566
Much Hoole, t. 1,701 4.17 519 644 745 785 775 708 368 340
Little Hoole, t. I,222w 179 225 216 I89 204 202 424 I98 226
Penwortham, p. . 11,317 w 2,909 || 3,710 || 4,554 || 4,679 || 5,498 || 5,722 5,488 2,709 2,779
Longton, t. 3,692w 904 1,340 1,791 1,744 1,719 1,687 1,637 822 815
|Hutton, t. 2,683 w 462 507 613 715 563 500 461 243 218
Howick, t. 879 w II 2 123 136 132 125 II 6 93 52 41
Penwortham, t. 2,277 | 1,049 | 1,243 | 1,501 | 1,416 1,372 | 1,487 | 1,506 715 791
Farington, t. 1,786 389 497 513 672 1,719 1,932 1,791 877 914
Preston, p. . 15,659 || 14,300 | 19,528 27,300 36,336 || 53,482 | 72,136 | 85,699 || 39,375 || 46,324
Fishwick, t. 672 | 287 295 284 789 756 | 1,005 | 1,884 864 | 1,020
Preston, t. . 2,081 | 11,887 || 17,065 24,575 || 33,112 || 50,131 | 68,537 || 81,101 || 37,204 || 43,897
Walton-le-Dale, t. 4,630 || 3,832 || 4,776 || 5,740 || 5,767 || 6,659 6,855 || 7,383 || 3,458 3,925
Cuerdale, t. © 500 170 159 I66 II 8 I06 80 56 3]. 25
Samlesbury, t. . . 4,270 | 1,664 1,589 | 1,979 | 1,948 || 1,728 1,435 | 1,215 589 626
Grimsargh and Brockholes, t. 1,945 262 279 | 848 || 310 |} * | *. * || || 1:
Ribbleton, t. 744 152 155 151 170 178 189 175 81 94
Elston, t. 934 58 59 76 64 56 54 53 28 25
Ribchester, p. 8, 150 | 2,748 || 3,544 || 4,198 || 4,283 || 4,111 || 3,888 || 3,885 2,009 | 1,876
Hothersall, t. 1,033 e e ſº e tº º * * * 186 169 152 159 75 84
Ribchester, t. . 2,093 | 1,172 | 1,461 | 1,760 | 1,889 | 1,727 | 1,650 1,357 || 759 598
Dutton, t. 1,809 388 440 521 490 563 446 312 I64 148
Aiston, t. 1,989 664 782 948 844 807 807 1,098 544 554
Dilworth, t. 1,226 524 861 969 874 845 833 959 467 492
(ſhe #i8tory of £ancashire—%ubemba. 62]



Area 1861. | 1861
Parish, Township, or Place. in Sºute 1801. 1811. 1821. 1831. 1841. 1851. sº . 1861.
ACreS. Persons. | Males. | Females.
Kirkham, p. gº wº e 48,530"| 8,849 10,321 11,925 | 11,630 | 11,604 || 10,926 11,445 5,503 || 5,942
Goosnargh, with Newsam, t. 9,290 1,558 | 1,562 | 1,852 | 1,844 1,621 | 1,453 1,307 667 640
Whittingham, t. II3 529 587 661 710 691 677 583 286 297
Haighton, t. 1,054 167 193 184 I92 212 193 222 97 125
Barton, t. g º 2,536 348 344 414 422 413 370 343 171 172
Broughton, t. . * 2,346 545 548 615 620 695 685 709 346 363
Lea, Ashton, etc., t. 3,522w 594 590 658 687 710 743 911 432 479
Fulwood, t. . . 2,077 396 401 430 500 628 1,748 2,313 | 1,610 703
Wood Plumpton, t. . 4,722 | 1,197 | 1,397 | 1,635 | 1,719 | 1,688 1,574 1,462 768 694
Clifton with Salwick, t. 3,776w 552 575 608 508 538 471 447 231 216
Newton with Scales, t. 1,525W 269 336 380 38] 324 299 286 148 138
Kirkham, t. g 840 | 1,561 2,214 2,735 | 2,469 2,903 || 2,799 3,380 | 1,453 | 1,927
Freckleton, t. tº 2,659 w 561 701 875 909 995 968 879 410 469
Warton, t. ge & g 3,939W 376 445 468 53]. 522 473 446 213 233
Bryning with Kellamergh, t. 1,043 105 131 145 164 152 126 116 67 49
Ribby with Wray, t. tº 1,366 307 398 500 482 442 406 444 212 232
Westby with Plumptons, t. 3,426 623 692 771 686 643 707 601 310 291
Weeton with Prees, t. . 2,876 384 508 473 477 545 465 465 240 225
Greenhalgh w. Thistleton, t. 1,821 378 403 419 408 371 362 383 195 188
Medlar with Wesham, t. . 1,971 216 230 215 242 209 170 563 284 279
Treales Roseacre & Wharles,t.| 4,015 675 671 760 756 709 696 632 328 304
Little Eccleston w. Larbreck, t. 1,198." I78 I99 224 230 199 215 209 I.02 I 07
Elswick, t. e e e 1,009 232 256 290 327 303 307 290 154 I36
Lytham, p. . g 15,542" 920 1,150 1,292 1,523 2,082 2,698 3,194 1,382 1,812
Little Marton, h. * * * * * * gº ºn e E. s. sº tº º tº 465 425 433 240 193
Bispham, p. . . . 5,865"| 727 827 | 1,072 | 1,256 2,339 || 2,857 || 4,344 | 1,896 || 2,448
Bispham with Norbreck, t. 2,624w 254 297 323 313 371 293 || 437 220 217
Layton with Warbreck, t. 3,241 w 473 580 749 943 1,968 2,564 3,907 | 1,676 2,231
Poulton-le-Fylde, p. g 20,666w 2,938 3,390 4,031 4,082 7,273 7,690 8,665 4,544 4,121
Great Marton, h. . g 5,452W 972 1,093 1,397 1,487 1,097 1,225 1,258 621 637
Hardhorn with Newton, t. 2,605 311 324 392 409 358 386 386 205 I8]
Great and Little Carleton, t. 1,979 269 308 356 319 378 400 363 I92 171
Poulton-le-Fylde, t. 900 769 926 | 1,011 | 1,025 º 1,120 | 1,141 528 6.13
Thornton, t. . tº o 1,014 1,013
Fleetwood on Wyre, t. . | 9,780" 617 | 739 875 | 842 || 3: ; || 5,084 2,758 2,826
Great and Little Singleton, t. 2,860 W 325 396 501 499 391 293 338 173 165
Preesall with Hackensall, t. 3,860 w 530 589 700 745 947 823 || 812 407 405
Stalmine with Staynall, t. 2,138 418 438 507 504 504 508 471 253 218
Pilling, t. . . . 8,017 718 840 | 1,043 | 1,127 | 1,232 1,281 | 1,388 768 620
Hambleton, c. . e 1,603 252 273 338 334 349 346 366 184 182
St. Michael-on-Wyre, p. . 18,184 || 3,426 3,941 4,553 || 4,708 || 4,786 || 4,680 4,509 || 2,390 || 2,119
Out Rawcliffe, t. g iº 4,340 413 484 598 575 728 791 771 424 347
Upper Rawcliffe with Tarn-
acre, t. e tº © 3,743 494 617 643 665 671 697 682 369 313
Great Eccleston, t. 1,412 455 540 648 624 661 631 641 336 305
Inskip with Sowerby, t. 2,888 635 647 739 798 735 680 663 339 324
Myerscough, t. tº 2,740 464 459 557 510 504 459 426 229 197
Bilsborrow, t. . 842 163 178 209 I99 157 I52 176 9I 85
Garstang, p. 31,403 || 5,766 6,196 || 7,403 || 6,927 | 7,659 || 7,465 7,221 3,671 3,550
Claughton, t. 3,700 784 735 948 742 772 641 608 308 300
Catteral, t. 1,733 560 546 704 487 | 1,102 | 1,036 867 412 455
Kirkland, t. 894 426 451 511 458 408 429 388 176 212
Nateby, t. § 2,030 272 296 406 232 341 325 385 212 173
Winmarleigh, t. 2,282 243 264 248 275 257 262 246 135 111
Cabus, t. & 1,220 246 253 277 267 253 238 209 115 94
Garstang, t. . e 500 731 790 936 929 909 .839 714. 354 360
Barnacre with Bonds, t. 4,316 474 497 548 519 628 875 907 437 470
Nether Wyresdale, t. 3,640 57.1 713 800 770 762 704 667 312 355
Forton, t. e tº 1,278 402 482 587 662 679 582 574 295 279
|Holleth, t. 354 31 38 43 50 35 28 30 22 8
Cleveley, t. 597 145 II 3 148 140 124 73 62 34 28
Bleasdale, c. 8,490 220 225 212 236 249 295 372 209 I63
Lancaster, p. e 73,732w 17,218 17,528 || 19,372 22,294 || 24,707 || 26,232 27,430 || 13,849 || 13,581
Over-Wyresdale, t. 16,938 661 802 || 774 872 6.79 680 524. 274 250
Thurnham, t. . 1,470 363 403 448 526 723 748 || 717 378 339
Cockerham, p. 10,480 | 1,881 2,194 | 2,624 2,794 3,230 2,478 2,922 | 1,516 1,406
Cockerham, t. 4,860 714 738 773 577 847 774 778 429 349
Bllel, t. 5,620 | 1,116 | 1,456 1,851 2,217 | 2,223 1,484 | 1,968 985 983
Heysham, p. 1,704 365 464 540 582 698 593 567 273 294
Middleton, t. tº ; : 1,229 16] I6] 185 177 200 185 182 101 81
Overton and Sunderland, t. 6,314 322 305 344 336 390 334 305 155 150
Heaton with Oxcliffe, t. 1,977 206 I75 176 170 149 174 165 I02 63
Torrisholme, h. ‘e 643 140 16] 188 217 192
Poulton-le-Sands, h. 771 483 277 363 540 700 995 2,236 | 1,131 | 1,105
Bare, h. . sº g 227 7I 91 II.0 120 114
Slyne with Hest, t. 1,114 259 286 317 286 316 309 312 146 166
622 Ǻr #istory of £ancashire—globemba.



Area,
s - º º 1861. e
Parish, Township, or Place infº| 1801. 1811. 1821. 1881. 1841. 1851. tº. º rº.
Halton, p. . - 3,738 823 776 || 1,027 834 694 718 670 325 345
with Aughton, c. * - - - ºr & • * * 199 | tº º º 134 132 - - -
Bulk, t. . 1,147 190 113 III 102 113 124 109 65 44
Skerton, t. . 1,186 || 1,278 | 1,254 | 1,283 | 1,351 | 1,665 1,586 1,556 744 812
Lancaster, t. . . . )| 1,240 || 9,030 9,247 | 10,144 12,613 || 13,531 14,378 14,324 || 6,783 || 7,541
Lancaster Castle 5 4 º' s tº e 9 * * * tº e = 558 226 163 78 85
Aldcliffe, t. . e º 652 - - - 73 85 96 1I] 85 74 35 39
Ashton with Stodday, t. . 1,439 176 206 242 213 185 173 184 93 91
Scotforth, t. . # 2,764 462 466 579 557 643 693 955 441 514
Quernmoor, t. . * º 6,593 490 471 672 605 556 579 553 292 271
Caton with Littledale, t. . 8,373 1,190 | 1,061 | 1,107 | 1,166 1,310 1,434 1,160 570 590
Claughton, p. . *. 1,550 71 92 123 116 118 106 94. 47 47
Melling, p. . 23,474 | 1,669 2,001 || 2,340 | 1,962 2,039 || 2,204 2,013 | 1,031 982
Farleton, t. 1,036 84 93 91 90 62 75 75 40 35
Hornby, t. - 2,115 414 420 477 383 318 374 317 151 166
Roeburndale, t. e 8,845 229 228 237 I99 191 206 144 83 6]
Wray with Botton, t. 6,506 483 623 808 586 718 833 797 413 384
Wennington, t. g - 830 * - e. 125 160 155 148 189 180 88 92
|Melling and Wrayton, t. . 1,120 156 188 210 200 195 197 169 79 90
Tatham, p. . . . . . 8,501 739 576 765 744 677 654 588 322 266
Ireby, t. . 1,810 e - e. 100 115 109 145 111 113 61 52
Tunstal, p. . 9,224 637 665 757 862 721 814 803 403 400
Cantsfield, t. 1,221 138 123 120 88 114 155 116 53 63
Tunstal, t. 1,077 124 111 155 142 142 146 138 70 68
Leck, t. . & s 4,636 219 268 284 326 288 285 324. 163 161
Burrow with Burrow, t. 2,290 156 163 198 306 177 228 225 117 108
Whittington, p. . . . . 4,322 384 || 411 461 542 425 414 421 209 212
Arkholme with Cawood, t, 3,022 303 324 357 349 407 || 330 331 177 154
Gressingham, t. - 1,934 178 191 20I. 177 185 187 158 79 79
Bolton-le-Sands, p. 7,905 1,609 | 1,601 | 1,821 1,781 1,774 1,802 1,713 871 842
Over Kellet, t. . 3,202 411 464 531 446 508 488 425 210 215
Nether Kellet, t. 2,018 300 263 358 354 279 3.19 284 158. | 26
Bolton-le-Sands, t. 1,571 639 591 615 695 671 686 692 357 335
Warton, p. . . . . 11,141 1,574 1,667 2,050 2,159 2,209 || 2,099 2,161 | 1,103 | 1,058
Warton with Lindeth, t. . 2,924 464 443 558 558 633 600 581 29] 290
Carnforth, t. e - 1,492 219 215 294 | 299 306 294 393 200 I93
Silverdale, t. e 1,145 171 I96 243 240 252 240 294 154 140
Yealand-Redmaynes, t. 2,099 148 I81 227 227 228 226 209 119 90
Yealand-Conyers, t. . 1,577 196 230 264 294 322 306 | 272 132 I40
Borwick, t. • e 836 208 212 251 278 214 199 194 104 90.
Priest-Hutton, t. 1,068 168 I90 213 263 254 234. 218 103 115
Cartmel, p. © tº 22,960 || 4,007 || 3,939 || 4,923 || 4,802 || 4,927 5,213 || 5,108 || 2,543 2,565
Upper Allithwaite, t. 3,710 541 567 771 759 740 746 729 388 341
Cartmel Fell, t. c 2,900 322 280 371 347 356 351 308 I66 142
Staveley, t. - 2,480 315 287 350 326 382 399 409 205 204
East Broughton, t. . 2,830 319 353 381 416 458 470 534 237 297
Lower Allithwaite, t. 2,360 589 686 839 838 807 888 933 434 499
Tower Holker, t. 2,130 1,039 931 | 1,091 1,021 1,070 1,225 1,160 575 585
Upper Holker, t. 6,550 882 835 1,120 1,095 1,114 | 1,134 1,035 538 497
Colton, p. º 13,330 | 1,516 1,524 | 1,627 | 1,786 1,983 || 2,008 || 1,794 897 897
Ulverston, p. 24,586 4,942 5,867 7,102 || 7,741 || 8,778 || 10,623 11,464 5,654 5,810
Blawith, t. s 2,620 I 60 170 190 171 173 229 193 85 I08
Subberthwaite, t. 1,246 90 112 154 163 147 150 152 77 75
Lowick, t. 1,900 278 373 378 371 374 4.1.1 468 237 231
jºr 495 470 496 547 -
Egton-cum-Newland, t. 3,390 675 374 440 491 477 1,222 1,231 600 631
ManSriggs, t. 510 64 64 62 69 63 64 69 44 25
Osmotherley, t. 1,140 218 237 264 293 298 325 419 231 I88
Ulverston, t. 2,900 2,937 3,378 4,315 4,876 5,352 6,742 || 7,414 3,566 3,848
Pennington, p. 2,767 273 271 284 355 388 489 879 462 417
Urswick, p. 4,100 633 590 787 752 761 89]. 1,080 552 528
Aldingham, p. º 4,694 633 696 760 884. 907 968 1,011 527 484
Dalton-in-Furness, p. . 16,364 1,954 2,074 || 2,446 2,697 3,231 4,683 9,152 4,958 4,194
Kirkby-Ireleth, p. 26,990 || 2,344 2,399 || 2,947 3,234 || 3,409 || 3,366 3,138 1,621 1,517
Kirkby-Ireleth, t...... . . 9,010 | 1,041 | 1,079 1,343 | 1,521 | 1,809 | 1,748 || 1,666 882 784
** wº 1,250 now Angertonparish. 36 32 31 I8 13
West Broughton, t. 5,790 1,005 966 1,253 1,375 1,250 1,297 1,183 585 598
e 143 148 152 155 118 58 60
T]unnerdale w. Seathwaite, t. 7,000 298 349 | 208 I90 202 166 171 96 75
Torver, t. - e 3,670 182 204 263 224 199 193 194 106 88
Church Coniston, t. . 7,210 338 460 566 587 1,148 1,287 1,324 708 616
Hawkshead, p. . . . . . . 19,252 | . 1,585 1,710 | 2,014 || 2,060 2,323 2,283 2,081 | 1,049 | 1,032
Hawkshead with Monk 3,732 |
Coniston, etc. t. ... 634 676 829 797 892 | 1,271 1,144 57.1 573
Skelwith 5,420 |
Claife, t. e 5,310 391 350 452 463 541 540 540 264 276
Satterthwaite, t. 4,790 274 298 307 403 420 472 397 214 I83
Ǻr £igturn of 3Lancašijire—ºbbemba.
623
The following Table exhibits the number of inhabited houses, and the population (of each sex) in the one
city, and the various parliamentary and municipal boroughs of Lancashire, distinguishing the municipal
from the parliamentary limits where they differ:—



City and Boroughs. º Persons. | Males. | Females. City and Boroughs. º Persons. | Males. | Females.
Ashton-UNDER-LYNE : MANCHESTER :
Parliamentary limits 6,040 || 33,917 | 15,856 18,061 Ardwick, t. 4,414 || 21,757 | 10,486 || 11,271
Audenshaw, part of 187 969 429 540 Beswick, p. g & 171 88.1 420 461
g 9 it is Cheetham, t. . e 3,168 17,446 7,967 9,479
Municipal limits 6,647 34,886 | 16,285 | 18,601 Chorlton-Medlock, t. 8,584 || 44,795 20,423 24,372
BLACKBURN Township : •’s Bulme, t. |}}}}|...}}}| 32,825 || 35,608
immo, and Pºri, limits 11,306 | 68,126 || 30,140 || 32,986 || Manchester, tº 31,663 185,410 | 87,962 | 97,448
Municipal limits 61,487 || 338,722 | 160,083 || 178,639
BoLTON, Great: Township || 7,767 43,435 | 20,860 22,575 || Bradford, t. 707 3,523 1,780 1,743
Haulgh . . . . . 409 || 2,018 978 || 1,040 || Harpurhey, t. 152 827 361 466 |
Little Bolton, part of 4,953 24,942 | 11,921 | 13,021 || Newton, t. 3,029 14,907 || 7,255 7,652
Munic, and Parl, limits 13,129 || 70,395 || 33,759 || 36,636 || Parliamentary limits 65,375 || 357,979 | 169,479 | 188,500
OLDHAM, Township :
BURNLEy: Town., part of 2,991 || 17,231 8,275 | 8,956 || ||{ººl ºmits 13,810 | 72,333 || 35,561 || 36,772
O’ ... pt.of 2,094 | 11,469 5,474 || 5,996 || Chadderton, 1,503 || 7,486 || 3,7II | 3,775
Habergham Eaves, pt.of L - Crompton, t. 1,460 || 7,032 || 3,382 3,650
Municipal limits 5,085 28,700 || 13,748 || 14,952 Royton, t. 1,562 7,493 3,565 3,928
Parliamentary limits 18,335 | 94,344 46,219 || 48,125
BURY: Township ; %; 14,727 | 15,670
- º 2 ,166 || 3,474 3,692 &
Elton, part of 7 PRESTON, Township 14,732 81,103 || 37,204 || 43,897
Parliamentary limits 7,257 || 37,563 | 18,201 || 19,362 Fishwick, t. 3|8 1,884 864. 1,020
Munic, and Parl, limits 15,050 | 82,985 38,068 44,917
CLITHEROE, Township . 1.4% 6,990 || 3,325 | 3,655 ROCHDALE
g *] I0 3 : -
Clitheroe Castle, parish 2 8 Castleton, part of t. 2,892 || 13,971 6,724 7,247
Municipal limits 1,433 7, 000 3,337 3,663 Spotland, part of t. 1,527 7,612 3,613 3,999
Chatburn 111 521 261 260 Wardleworth, part of t. 3,272 | 16,531 7,879 8,652
Downham 70 292 139 153 gº tº tº gº
Little Mitton 10 62 35 27 Municipal limits 7,691 || 38,114 | 18,216 || 19,898
Mearley 7 | 47 26 21 Spotland, part of t. . 6 30 15 15
Pendleton 298 1,446 672 774 Wuerdle & Wardle, pt. of 8 40 12 28
Twiston 34 || 141 77 #| Parliamentary limits 7,705 | 88,184 18,243 || 1994.
Whalley 163 806 407 399 5 2 ’’ ‘’’ +?? &#4
Wiswall 100 465 232 233 || SALFORD :
Worston 21 84 43 41 || Broughton, t. . . . . 1,789 || 9,885 || 4,063 || 5,822
Pendlebury, part of t. I 30 662 296 366
Parliamentary limits 2,247 10,864 5,229 5,635 Pendleton, t. ſº 3,906 20,900 9,438 11,462
. Salford, t. 13,303 || 71,002 || 34,320 36,682
LANCASTER, Township . 2,680 || 14,324 6,783 || 7,541 "a ran ..º e ©
Lancaster Castle 1 I63 78 85 Munic, and Parſ. Jimits | 19,128 || 102,449 || 48,117 | 54,332
WARRINGTON : -
Municipal limits 2,681 14,487 6,861 7,626 Warrington, part of t. 4,503 || 23,708 || 11,450 | 12,258
Bulk, part of t. 8 51 31 20 Latchford, part of t. 539 2,711 1,337 1,374
Skerton, part of t. 303 | 1,467 697 770 Thelwall, part of t. 2 I 3 r
; :) 2 9
Parliamentary limits 2,992 | 16,005 7,589 || 8,416 #. º ft 5,044 26,431 12,790 13,641
LIVERPOOL : atonLord, part of t. 34 174 84 90
Everton, t. 9,288 54,848 26,078 28,770 || Warrington, part oft. 68 || 342 172 170
Rirkdale, t. 2,542 16, 135 7, 898 8,237 Parliamentary Żmits
Liverpool, p. . . . 37,041 269,742 | 132,842 | 136,900 $/ 5,146|| 26,947 || 13,046 || 13,901
Toxteth Park, part of p. 10,532 | 66,686 || 31,818 || 34,868 || WIGAN : , . e
West Derby, part of p. 6,378 || 36,527 | 17,080 | 19,447 Tº º Fº
& * * CIpal an 8.TL18,- 6,696 || 37,658 18,463 19,195
Munic, and Parl, limits 65,781 || 443,938 || 215,716 228,222 mentary limits - 2
624
Qſìje 39tstory of £amcagüirt—ºbbemba.
AGES, CONDITION, AND OCCUPATIONS OF THE PEOPLE.
(Census of 1861)
Lancashire contained, on April 8, 1861, a population of 2,429,440 persons; of whom 1,173,424 were
males, 1,256,016 were females, of all ages, in the following proportions:—

Males. Females. Males. Females.
Under twenty years 547,635 555,419 Thirty-five years and upwards. 74,289 80,535
Twenty years and upwards 625,789 700,597 Forty 32 2 3 & 68,166 73,320
Under one year 38,651 38,192 Forty-five ,, 2 3 53,089 56,092
One year and upwards 34,043 33,809 Fifty 9 3. 3 2 45,707 48,797
Two ,, 2 3 33,113 33,113 Fifty-five 35 2 2 31,570 33,808
Three ,, • 31,565 31,111 Sixty 35 2 3 25,958 29,194
Four , , 2 3 31,024 30,994 Sixty-five ,, 92 14,747 17,390
Under five years * 168,396 167,219 Seventy 3 * 2 3 9,905 12,274
Five years and upwards . 139,288 139,728 Seventy-five ,, 5 5 5,133 6,517
Ten , , 5 5 124,147 124,679 | Eighty 3 5 5 5. 2,334 3,116
Fifteen 55 115,804 123,793 || Eighty-five ,, 2 3 562 842
Twenty 5 5 113,185 130,923 Ninety 5 3 2 5 108 206
Twenty-five ,, 95,511 112,191 Ninety-five ,, 5 * I8 47
Thirty 3.2 85,491 95,327 || One hundred , , 3 5 6 18
CIVIL or CoNJUGAL CONDITION OF THE PEOPLE.
Under 15 100
15 and up. 20- 25- || 30- || 35- | 40- || 45- 50- || 55- || 60- || 65- || 70- || 75- |80- || 85- 90- |95- º
# 5 |438,100116,629|84,231|35,708|17,524|10,691 8,483 5,432, 4,607 2,845. 2,500||1323|839| 444, 189| 38 || 11 || 2
§ sms *-*
É E 437,837|121,57085,782|40,93321,950|13,724, 9,848, 6,439 5,221| 3,410, 3,067|1756|1276 709. 291 81 || 17 || 7 || 3
re; i 88230,154,59,79867,359|62,11157,29044,70537,03421,72918,359,9230|51732148, 699||135 22 || 1 || 1
§ º 4,082,46,25170,26569,930|61,910|55,354|40,977|32,50720,77413,919,6957,3538||1285| 361 57 || 6 I
º ; 18| 381| 1,263. 1,852 2,543 3,377 3,734 4,718, 4,473 5,558|43934.100.26451494. 407 || 79 || 15 5
§:
o |— . *-i-º-º-º: I -
re; d .
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OCCUPATIONS OF THE PEOPLE.
In the census of 1861 these have been taken in divisions, comprising several counties, and in separate
registration counties. Thus, Division VIII., termed the North-western Counties, comprises the two counties
of Lancaster and Chester. The occupations are arranged in six great Classes—I. Professional; II. Domestic ;
III. Commercial; IV. Agricultural ; V. Industrial; and VI. Indefinite and non-productive. These
classes have their subdivision into Orders —Thus Class I, includes Order 1. Persons engaged in the
general or local government of the country; 2. Those in the defence of the country; 3. Those in the learned
professions, or in literature, art, or science. II, includes Order 4. Those engaged in the domestic Offices, or duties
of wives, mothers, children, etc.; and 5. Those engaged in entertaining or performing personal offices for man.
III, includes 6. Those who buy, sell, keep, or lend money, houses, or goods of various kinds; 7. Those engaged
in the conveyance of men, animals, goods, and messages. TV. includes 8. Those possessing or Working the
land, and growing grain, fruits, grasses, annuals, and other products; and 9. Those engaged about animals.
W. includes 10, 11. Those working and dealing in textile fabrics and dress; 12. Those working and dealing in
food and drinks ; 13. ditto in animal substances; 14. ditto in vegetable substances; 15. ditto in minerals.
VI, includes 16. Labourers and others, where the branch of labour is undefined ; 17. Persons of rank and
property; and 18. Persons supported by the community, and of no specified occupation. These various Orders
are again subdivided into sub-orders, which need not be specified here, as they are the same with the various
Occupations given in the following enumeration. -
The following shows the numbers of males and females in the various occupations specified, within the
registration county of Lancaster in April 1861 —
Civil service (not in revenue department), 129 males. Post-office, 856 males; 66 females. Inland revenue, 285 m. , Customs
1031 ; government workmen, 6; government officers, 10 ; magistrates, 165; police, 2639; prison officers, 178 m., 57 f, Union
(ſije #igtúrg of 3-ancashire—ºthenba. 625
£e
and parish officers, 629 m., 74 f. ; officers of local board, 51 m. ; other local officers, 344 m., 3 f. East India and Colonial
service, 45. Army officers, 188; do. half-pay, 60; soldiers, 2823; Chelsea pensioners, 1216; militia, 252; others, 33. Navy
officers, 28; do. half-pay, 10; seamen, royal navy, 89; royal marine, 89; Greenwich pensioners, 88; others 44. Clergymen,
833; Protestant ministers, 683 ; Roman Catholic priests, 290; other religious teachers, 293 m., 232 f.; parish-clerks, 79; pew-
openers, 23 f.; other church officers, 329 m., 20 f. Barristers, 147; solicitors, 805; law students, 29; other lawyers, 3 ; officers
of law courts, 196; law clerks, 1368; law stationers, 69 m. 1 f. Physicians, 174; surgeons and apothecaries, 963; medical
students and assistants, 279 ; dentists, 179; druggists, 2049 m., 72 f. ; midwives, 260 f ; others, 46 m., 39 f. Authors, editors,
and writers, 126; others engaged in literature, 103 m., 5 f. Artists and painters, 414 m., 76 f. ; sculptors, 41 m. ; engravers,
1083 m. ; photographic artists, 283 m. ; others, 23 f. Musicians, 1087 m., 165 f.; music-masters, 268; mistresses, 320 ; others,
6 m., 2 f. Actors, 197; actresses, 143; in theatres and exhibitions, 197 m., 33 f. Schoolmasters, 1656 ; schoolmistresses, 2514;
teachers of languages, 162 m., 77 f.; professors of mathematics, 46 m. ; general teachers, 1280 m, 2188 f.; teachers of dancing,
50 m. ; governesses, 1332; other teachers, 59 m., 19 f. Civil engineers, 310; other scientific persons, 79 m., 5 f. Sons,
grandsons, brothers, nephews (not otherwise described), 193,891. Wives, 307, 184; widows, 36,505; children and relatives,
242,525 f. Scholars (so described), 188,021 m., 188,872 f. Inn and hotel keepers, 1682 m., 560 f.; innkeepers' wives, 1190 ;
publicans, 3095 m., 753 f; beersellers, 2960 m., 1076 f.; lodging and boarding house keepers, 499 m., 2733 f.; d.o. wives, 280;
coffeehouse keepers, 188 m., 158 f ; officers of institutions, 96; cooks (not domestic servants), 71 m. ; others (boarding, etc.), 150
m., 58 f. General domestic servants, 2522 m., 64,005 f.; coachmen, 881; grooms, 520; gardeners, 1038 ; housekeepers, 65.17 f.;
cooks, 4979 f.; housemaids, 5685 f ; nurses, 6085 f. ; laundrymaids, 239 f ; inn servants, 2062 m., 1885 f ; hospital nurses,
134 m., 172 f.; nurses (not domestic servants), 1662 f ; charwomen, 8343; others, 91 m., 137 f. Merchants, 2572; bankers, 77 ;
insurance and benefit society officers, 500; stockbrokers, etc., 149; ship brokers and agents, 361; brokers, 930; agents and factors,
1960; coal and colliery agents, 405 m. ; iron merchants and agents, 93 m. ; salesmen, 595 m. ; auctioneers, appraisers, and valuers,
300 m. ; accountants, 684; commercial clerks, 12,328; commercial travellers, 1673; other mercantile men, 129; in mercantile
pursuits, 468 f. Pawnbrokers, 1240 m., 214 f. ; marine-store dealers, 335 m. ; general dealers and costermongers, 381 m. 324 f.;
shopkeepers, 690 m., 1460 f.; hawkers and pedlars, 1973 m., 2461 f.; other general dealers, 11 m., 219 f. Railway engine drivers, 1264;
railway officials, 2114; railway servants, 4401 m. ; railway attendants, 17 f.; railway police, 59 ; others engaged in railways, 31 m.
Toll collectors, 223 m., 56 f ; coach, Omnibus, and cab owners, 311 m., 26 f. ; livery stable keepers, 41 m. ; coachmen (not domes-
tic), 1897; cabmen, flymen, 851; carmen, carriers, carters, draymen, 13,183 m., 57 f.; others, 30 m., 14 f. ; Canal and river
service, 804 m. ; bargemen and watermen, 3012; boat and barge women, 42 f ; others, 7 m., 4 f. Shipowners, 156 m., 8 f. ;
seamen in merchant service, 12,914; pilots, 280; boatmen on the seas, 10; dock servants and labourers, 12,100; wharfingers, 44;
others, 1795 m. ; 67 f. Warehousemen (not Manchester), 6365; warehousewomen, 409 f.; others, in storage, 306 m., 4 f. Mes-
sengers, porters, errand boys and girls, 13,312 m., 101 f ; telegraph service, 353 m. ; others, in messages, 10 m., 33 f. Land
proprietors, 927 m., 1181 f. Farmers and graziers, 16,089 m., 2081 f.; farmers' sons, brothers, grandsons, 7551; farmers' wives,
11,709; do., daughters, granddaughters, sisters, nieces, 5922; farm bailiffs, 245 m. ; agricultural labourers, 31,002 m., 1332 f.;
shepherds (outdoor), 142 m. ; farm-servants (indoor), 8762 m., 1990 f.; land-surveyors and estate agents, 669; others in agricul-
ture, 79 m., 3 f. Woodmen, 202; gardeners, 4442 m., 40 f.; nurserymen, 105 m. ; others in horticulture, 2 m., 2 f. Horse-
dealers, 63 m. ; horse-breakers, 63 m. ; horse-keepers, grooms, jockeys, 2.192 m. ; farriers, veterinary surgeons, 470 m. Cattle and
sheep dealers, 464 m. ; drovers, 159 ; pig merchants and dealers, 83 m. Gamekeepers, 480 ; vermin-destroyers, 38 m. Fisher-
men, 908 ; fisherwomen, 86. Others about animals, 93 m., 24 f. Booksellers and publishers, 595 m. 90 f. ; bookbinders, 646 m.,
488 f. ; printers, 3269 m., 51 f ; newspaper agents, 306 m. ; others in publications, 102 m., 80 f. Musical instrument makers
and dealers, 227 m.; others, 101 m., 18 f. Lithographers and lithographic printers, 574 m.; others, 243 m. In maps, pictures,
46 f.; artificial flower makers, 261 f.; wood-carvers, 274 m. ; others, 110 m., 9 f. Toy makers and dealers, 110 m., 121 f.; bow, bat,
and tackle makers, 49 m., 5 f.; pattern-designers, 403 m. ; others, 156 m. Engaged about medals, 3 f.; watch and clock makers,
3708 m., 60 f.; opticians, 154 m.; weight or measure makers, 104 m. ; others, 44 m., 1 f. Surgical instrument makers, 23 m.,
5f.; others, 5 m. Gunsmiths and manufacturers, 157 m.; others, 57 m., 3 f. Engine and machine makers, 12,627 m.; spindle-
makers, 1998 m. ; needle manufacturers, 5 f.; Scissors makers, 9 m., 2 f.; toolmakers and dealers, 425 m. ; filemakers, 1062
m., 16 f ; saw Smiths and makers, 84 m.; cutlers, 178 m. 8 f.; blade makers and forgers, 4 m.; knife makers, 10 m.; razor
makers, 7 m.; others in tools and machines, 3996 m., 1218 f. Coach makers, 1811 m., 9 f.; others, 93 m. Saddlers, harness makers,
1098 m. 15 f.; whip makers, 83 m. 6 f.; shipbuilders and wrights, 3800 m.; block, oar, and mast makers, 410 m. ; boat and barge
builders, 343 m. 8 f.; Sailmakers, 857 m.; others, 956 m. House proprietors, 1088 m., 2364 f.; house agents, 373 m.; architects,
426 m.; surveyors, 144 m.; builders, 1036 m.; carpenters, joiners, 19,081 m.; marble masons, 380 m. ; masons, paviors, 11,025 m. ;
slaters and tilers, 1333 m.; plasterers, 2896 m.; paperhangers, 370 m. ; plumbers, painters, glaziers, 10,822 m., 45 f.; others, 156 m.
46 f. Cabinet-makers and upholsterers, 4102 m., 875 f.; undertakers, 72 m. ; chairmakers, 693 m., 37 f.; picture-frame makers, 175
m.; carvers, gilders, 585 m. ; bedstead and mattress makers, 79 m.; furniture brokers, 618 m., 214 f.; others, 58 m. 67 f. Wheel-
wrights, 3094 m. ; millwrights, 2124 m.; other implement makers, 23 m. 5 f. Manufacturing chemists and labourers, 2361 m.; dye
and colour manufacturers, 243 m. ; dyers, calenderers, 1969 m., 80 f.; others, 590 m., 174 f. WColstaplers, 135 m. ; felt manufacturers,
9 m.; knitters, 185 f.; woollen cloth manufacturers, 7031 m., 5043 f.; clothiers, 78 m., 14 f.; fullers, 561 m.; wool and woollen dyers,
121 m.; Berlin wool dealers and workers, 38 f.; worsted manufacture, 774 m., 976 f.; stuff manufacture, 9 m., 10 f.; flannel manu-
facture, 126 m. 29 f.; blanket manufacture, 9 m.; carpet, rug manufacture, 185 m., 82 f.; others, 368 m., 47 f. Silk manufacture,
8827 m., 16,594 f.; silk dyers, printers, 486 m. ; silk mercers, 115 m.; ribbon manufacture, 46 m., 29 f.; fancy goods (silk), 29 f.;
others, 449 m., 40 f. Flax, linen manufacture, 854 m., 2147 f.; thread manufacture, 39 m., 106 f.; tape manufacturers and dealers,
91 f.; lace manufacture, 56 m., 319 f.; cotton manufacture, 153,490 m., 202,701 f.; fustian manufacture, 2182 m., 2607 f.; muslin
manufacture, 124 m., 30 f.; calico and cotton printers, 80.19 m., 982 f.; calico and cotton dyers, 3869 m., 14 f.; others, 4375 m., 235 f.
Packers and pressers, 1568 m.; weavers (undefined), 290 m., 1432 f. Manchester warehousemen, 2126 m.; drapers and mercers,
4916 m., 1224 f.; trimming makers, 29 f.; embroiderers, 235 f.; others, 1200 m., 4063 f. Hairdressers and wigmakers, 1345 m.;
hatters and hat-manufacturers, 3029 m., 928 f.; straw-plait manufacturers, 2 m., 20 f.; straw hat and bonnet makers, 29 m., 293 f.;
bonnet-makers, 747 f.; cap-makers, 1180 f.; shawl manufacture, 15 m., 1 f.; furriers, 94 m., 46 f.; tailors, 13,024 m., 1433 f.; clothes
dealers and outfitters, 429 m., 262 f.; button-makers, 51 m., 46 f.; milliners and dressmakers, 30,258 f.; shirtmakers and seamstresses,
6736 f.; staymakers, 1163 f.; fancy workers, 159 f.; hose manufacture, 31 m., 61 f.; hosiers and haberdashers, 357 m., 246 f.; gloves,
leather, etc., 12 m., 17 f.; shoe and boot makers, 17,391 m., 2265 f.; shoemakers' wives, 6476 f.; patten and clog makers, 2678 m.;
umbrella and stick makers, 396 m., 446 f.; laundresses, 15,635 f.; others providing dress, 644 m., 746 f. Mat makers and sellers, 98 m.,
59 f.; rope and cord makers, 2614 m., 148 f.; canvas makers and dealers, 79 m., 48 f.; Sail-cloth manufacture, 15 m., 9 f.; others, 356
m., 241 f. Cowkeepers and milksellers, 1017 m., 383 f.; cheesemongers, 203 m., 8 f.; butchers and meat salesmen, 6072 m., 361 f.;
butchers' wives, 2397 ; provision curers and dealers, 2728 m., 1420 f.; poulterers and game-dealers, 207 m., 98 f.; fishmongers, 882m,
630 f.; others, 110 m., 26 f. Corn merchants and dealers, 1586 m.; millers, 1507 m., 17 f.; flour dealers and agents, 426 m., 17 f.;
bakers, 3949 m., 725 f.; confectioners and pastry cooks, 825 m., 1500 f.; green-grocers and fruiterers, 1469 m., 717 f.; fruit and flower
vendors, 96 m., 410 f.; potato merchants, 200 m.; seed-merchants and seedsmen, 130 m.; others, 50 m., 56 f. Maltsters, 187 m.;
brewers, etc., 2132 m., 23 f.; wine merchants, 717 m., 32 f.; distillers and rectifiers, 53 m.; cellarmen, 202 m.; gingerbeer and soda-
water manufacturers, 208 m.; Sugar refiners, 636 m. ; grocers and tea-dealers, 8878 m., 2242 f.; tobacco, cigar, and Snuff manufacturers,
387 m., 349 f.; tobacconists, 56.1 m., 199 f.; others, 375 m., 103 f. Soap-boilers, 340 m.; tallow-chandlers, 419 m., 16 f.; comb-makers,
71 m., 7 f.; others, 235 m., 22 f. Fellmongers, 71 m.; Skinners, 185 m.; tanners, 773 m.; curriers, 903 m., 21 f.; others, 230 m., 82 f.
4 L
626 (Iſiſt ºigturn of £antagjirt—ºblemba.
Hair-bristle manufacturers, 34 m., 43 f.; brush and broom makers, 1106 m., 143 f.; others, 6 m., 4 f. Oil millers and refiners, 187 m.;
oil and colour manufacturers, 66 m.; French polishers, 562 m., 129 f.; japanners, 61 m., 19 f.; others in gums and resins, 400 m., 114 f.
Timber merchants and dealers, 929 m.; wood dealers, 88 m., 20 f.; Sawyers, 2593 m.; lath-makers, 230 m.; turners, 938 m. ; box-
makers, 82 m., 172 f.; coopers, 2440 m.; hoop-makers and benchers, 182 m.; others, 789 m., 197f, Cork-cutters and manufacturers,
316 m.; other workers in bark, 2 m., 7 f. Basket-makers, 1129 m., 105 f.; hay and straw dealers, 137 m.; thatchers, 12 m. ; others,
42 m., 43 f. Rag gatherers and dealers, 293 m., 217 f.; paper manufacture, 1114 m., 450 f.; stationers (not law), 569 m., 194 f.;
envelope makers, 37 f.; paper box makers, 86 f.; paper stainers, 290 m., 57 f.; other workers in paper, 605 m., 89 f. Coal miners,
41,764 m. ; copper miners, 284 m.; tin miners, 5 m.; lead miners, 16 m. ; iron miners, 1271 m.; others in minerals, 487 m., 6 f. Coal
merchants and dealers, 1449 m., 113 f.; coal heavers and labourers, 1982 m. ; coke burners and dealers, 159 m.; chimney Sweepers,
406 m.; gasworks service, 1392 m.; other workers in coal, 31 m. Stone quarriers, 3256 m.; stone cutters and polishers, 274 m. ; slate
quarriers, 326 m.; limestone quarriers and burners, 170 m.; clay labourers, 43 m.; brickmakers and dealers, 4380 m., 37 f.; railway
labourers, 1850 m. ; platelayers, 773 m.; excavators and navvies, 1269 m.; road contractors, etc., 78 m. ; road labourers, 700 m. ;
Scavengers, 424 m.; dust collectors, 4 m.; others, 496 m. Earthenware manufacturers, 501 m., 96 f.; tobacco-pipe makers, 367 m., 67 f.;
earthenware and glass dealers, 545 m., 197 f.; others, 22 m, 1 f. Glass manufacture, 2823 m., 583 f.; other workers in glass, 41 m.
7 f. Salt manufacture, 82 m., 7 f.; others, 135 m. Waterworks service, 255 m.; others, 50 m. Goldsmiths and jewellers, 403 m., 44
f.; others, 44 f. Platers and plated-ware manufacture, 12 m.; others, 80 m. Copper manufacture, 349 m., 14 f.; copperSmiths, 355
m.; others, 3 m. Tin manufacture, 51 m., 12 f.; tinmen and tinkers, 619 m.; tin-plate workers, 1823 m.; zinc manufacture, 20 m.;
lead manufacture, 57 m., 2 f.; typefounders, 20 m. ; others, 22 m. Brassfounders and manufacturers, 1569 m.; braziers, 106 m. ; lock-
Smiths and bellhangers, 186 m.; pin manufacture, 95 f.; in brass, 60 f.; gasfitters, 682 m.; wire-makers and drawers, 634 m. ; wire-
workers and weavers, 426 m.; others, 178 m. Iron manufacture, 23,479 m., 32f.; whitesmiths, 1210 m.; blackSmiths, 11,909 m., 9 f.;
nail manufacture, 1414 m., 160 f.; anchor and chain Smiths, 148 m., 1 f.; boiler-makers, 2953 m.; ironmongers, 807 m., 49 f.; hard-
ware men and dealers, 146 m.; Screw-cutter makers, 5 f.; steel manufacture, 111 m., 55 f.; grinders (branch undefined), 249 m.; others,
1718 m.; labourers, 35,536 m., 211 f.; mechanics, 5421 m.; shopmen, 881; shopwomen and assistants, 693 f.; apprentices, 436 m.;
others of indefinable occupation, 2558 m., 100 f. Gentlemen, 952; gentlewomen, 1702; annuitants, 364 m., 3233 f.; dependent on
relatives, 181 m., 74 f.; alms-persons, no stated occupation, 23 m., 174 f.; paupers, no stated occupation, 504 m., 1161 f.; lunatics, no
stated occupation, 139 m., 461 f.; others, 580 m, 53f. Prisoners, no stated occupation, 110 m., 96 f.; vagrants and beggars, 32 m.
48 f.; visitors, no stated occupation, 273 m., 2848 f.; others of no stated occupation or condition, 5492 m., 7809 f.
In Liverpool borough —1075 publicans; 5139 commercial clerks; 3955 carmen, carriers, carters, and draymen ; 11,606 seamen
in the merchant service ; 11,511 dock servants and labourers ; 1340 warehousemen (not Manchester); 5585 messengers, porters,
and errand-boys; 1566 watch and clock makers; 1558 engine and machine makers; 34.13 shipbuilders and shipwrights; 45.95
carpenters and joiners ; 1276 bricklayers; 1459 masons and paviors; 1184 cabinetmakers and upholsterers; 3018 plumbers,
painters, and glaziers; 2090 cotton warehousemen and porters; 1411 Manchester warehousemen; 3030 tailors; 4377 shoe and
boot makers ; 1387 butchers and meat salesmen ; 1007 corn merchants and dealers; 1447 bakers; 1443 grocers and tea-dealers ;
1507 coopers ; 2114 iron manufacturers ; 1837 blacksmiths; 1036 boiler makers; 9978 labourers; and 1330 males of no stated
occupation or condition. Of females, 68,704 wives; 7616 widows; 52,124 children and relatives, and 36,125 scholars; 1104
lodging-house keeper's wives; 17,700 general domestic servants; 1206 cooks; 1083 nurses; 2765 charwomen; 1095 female hawkers
and pedlars ; 8589 milliners and dressmakers; 2749 shirtmakers and seamstresses; 1705 shoemakers' wives; 3008 laundresses; and
2349 females of no stated occupation or condition.
In Manchester (city) and Salford (borough) –1274 soldiers; 37,419 sons, grandsons, brothers, nephews ; 32,537 scholars;
3610 commercial clerks; 1430 railway servants; 3030 carmen, carriers, carters, and draymen; 3454 warehousemen (not Manchester);
5271 messengers, porters, and errand-boys; 1238 agricultural labourers; 1133 printers; 4232 engine and machine makers; 4043
carpenters and joiners; 1623 bricklayers; 1337 masons and paviors; 2992 plumbers, painters, and glaziers; 1475 cabinetmakers
and upholsterers; 1273 dyers and calenderers; 2011 silk manufacture ; 14,782 cotton manufacture; 1100 fustian manufacture ;
1760 calico printers ; 1706 cotton and calico dyers ; 1414 packers and pressers; 1741 Manchester warehousemen ; 1158 drapers
and mercers; 3335 tailors; 4244 shoe and bootmakers ; 1314 butchers and meat Salesmen ; 1313 bakers; 1453 grocers and tea-
dealers; 6316 iron manufacture ; 2255 blacksmiths; 64.40 labourers ; 1886 mechanics; 1118 males of no stated occupation or
condition. Of females, 60,260 wives; 7.168 widows; 46,254 children and relatives; and 32,790 scholars; 17,700 general domestic
servants; 1611 housekeepers; 1219 nurses; 2144 charwomen ; 5170 in silk manufacture ; 28,044 cotton manufacture; 2168
factory and braid workers; 7774 milliners and dressmakers; 2402 shirtmakers and seamstresses; 1821 shoemakers' wives ; 3844
laundresses; and 1286 females of no stated occupation or condition.
The (parliamentary) electoral returns for 1865-6 give the following particulars as to the parliamentary
divisions of the county of Lancaster:-
Northern Division :-Population in 1831, 259,444; in 1861, 374,489. Number of occupiers at £10
and under £12, 1779, of whom 314 were both owners and occupiers, and the other 1465 occupiers only.
Number of occupiers at £12 and under £15, 2007, of whom 364 were both owners and occupiers. At £15
and under £20, 2197, including 381 both owners and occupiers. At £20 and under £50, 5611, of whom .
842 were both owners and occupiers. At £50 and upwards, 5320, of whom 924 were both owners and
occupiers. Electors on the register of 1864-5, as occupying tenants, at £50 and upwards, 3961; gross
estimated rental of all the property in the division, as shown by the parliamentary return, No. 131 of 1860,
£1,304,991; as shown by the valuation-lists or poor-rate in 1865, £1,765,011; difference, £460,020.
Rateable value of all the property in the division, as shown by the parliamentary return of 1860, £1,149,945;
as shown by the valuation-lists or poor-rate in 1865, £1,535,527; difference, £385,582. Number of electors
on the register in 1832-3, 6593; in 1864-5, 13,006 ; difference, 6413. Number of male occupiers at a
rateable value of £10 and under £12, 1465; £12 and under £15, 1643; £15 and under £20, 1816; £20
and under £50, 4769; total at £10 and under £50, 9693 ; at £12 and under £50, 8228 ; at £15 and
under £50, 6585. Number of electors on the register of 1864-5 as £50 occupying tenants, 3961; male
occupiers at a gross estimated rental of £50 and upwards, 4396. Total number of electors on the register
of 1864-5, 13,006.
Southern Division —Population in 1831, 363,405; in 1861, 627,656. Number of occupiers at £10
and under £12, 3367; of whom 381 were both owners and occupiers. At £12 and under £15, 4005, of
whom 427 were both owners and occupiers. At £15 and under £20, 4620, of whom 565 were both owners
and occupiers. At £20 and under £50, 8196, of whom 1078 were both owners and occupiers. At a gross
Qſìe #istorg of 3|ancashire—%Intenna. 627
estimated rental of £50 and upwards, 8728, of whom 2329 were both owners and occupiers. Number of
electors on the register of 1865-6, as occupying tenants, at a gross estimated rental of £50 and upwards,
4076. The amount of the gross estimated rental of all the property in the division, as shown by the parlia-
mentary return of 1860, was £2,193,757; as shown by the valuation-lists or poor-rate in 1865, £3,074,590;
difference, £880,833. The amount of the rateable value of all the property in the division, as shown by the
parliamentary return of 1860, was £1,902,485; as shown by the valuation-list or poor-rate in 1865,
£2,643,411 ; difference, £740,926. Number of electors on the register in 1832-3, 10,039 ; in 1864-5,
21,555; difference, 11,516. Number of male occupiers at a rateable value of £10 and under £12, 2986;
#12 and under £15, 3578; £15 and under £20, 4055 ; £20 and under £50, 7118; total at £10 and under
#50, 17,737; at £12 and under £50, 14,751; at £15 and under £50, 11,173. Number of electors on the
register of 1864-5, as £50 occupying tenants, 4076; male occupiers at a gross estimated rental of £50 and
upwards, 6399. Total number of electors on the register of 1864-5, 21,555.
THE COUNTY REGISTRATION.—On the 1st of January 1868 the register of county electors for the
county of Lancaster was issued from the Clerk of the Peace's office. The register will remain in force for the
whole of 1868, and not end with November, as did the register before the passing of the Representation of
the People Act. The totals, compared with the register for 1866-7, are as follow :-
I868. 1866-7.
Northern Division - 13,587 13,258 ... 329 increase.
Southern Division - 23,479 23,685 ... 216 decrease.
Both Divisions - 37,066 36,943 113 increase.
WALUATION OF PROPERTY FOR ASSESSING THE COUNTY RATE.
In order to form a basis or standard on which to assess the county rate, it has been the practice to make
a valuation of the yearly value of the property in every parish, township, and place, throughout the county,
at irregular periods. One such valuation was made in the year 1829, and its results are given in the first
edition of this work (1836), in tables preceding the history of each of the six hundreds. Of course that
valuation is now useless, both because of the great increase in the extent and the value of property, and
because also of the different principle now applied to obtain the basis or standard required. Another
valuation was made in 1854, and a still more recent one in 1866, and we propose to place these two latest
valuations, twelve years apart, in juxtaposition, for convenience of comparison, and also to annex to these the
population according to the censuses of 1851 and 1861, and the area or acreage of each township or place,
according to the Ordnance Survey, in statute acres. Before giving the tables, however, for the several
hundreds, it is necessary briefly to explain the principle on which the valuation in each case been arrived at.
An act, entitled “An Act to consolidate and amend the Statutes relating to the Assessment and
Collection of County Rates in England and Wales,” was passed in 15 and 16 Vict. (1852), under the powers
and authority of which the justices of the county of Lancaster, at their annual General Session of the Peace
at Preston, on the 10th September 1863, appointed a committee of twenty-two magistrates, to be—
“A Committee for the purpose of preparing a Basis or Standard for fair and equal County Rates, such Basis or Standard to be
founded and prepared rateably and equally, according to the full and fair Annual Value of the Property, Messuages, Lands,
Tenements, and Hereditaments, rateable to the relief of the Poor in every Parish, Township, Borough, or Place, whether Parochial
or Extra-Parochial—that is to say, according to the net Annual Value of any Property, as the same is or may be required by Law
to be estimated for the purpose of assessing the Rates for the relief of the Poor.”
The committee accordingly prepared a basis or standard, which was laid before the Court of Annual
Session at Preston on the 28th December 1865; and the usual notices being given in the newspapers that
such basis or standard would be taken into consideration at the following Court of Annual Session, it was
then (February 1, 1866) considered, allowed, and confirmed.
The principle of rating adopted by the committee was the following:—
“For the purpose of estimating the net annual value of the property in each parish, township, or place, the committee first
ascertained the gross estimated value thereof, and from such gross value made the following deductions —
“1. From the value of all lands, tithes, canals, navigations, docks, watercourses, reservoirs, quarries, delphs, and brickyards,
one-twelfth part. And,
“2. From the value of all buildings (except farm buildings), mines, railways, and gasworks, one-sixth part.
In the following tables, the full heading of column 2 is, “Last preceding Basis or Standard for County
Rates, being the Value as allowed in the year 1854, after making Deductions;” and the full heading of
column 3 is, “New Basis or Standard for County Rates, being the Value as allowed in 1866, after making
Deductions.” It will be seen that we have abbreviated these headings.
628 QThe #istory
of £antaghirt–ºbbemba.

LONSDALE HUNDRED.
NORTH OF THE SANDS.
Basi asi : ..., s_s | Area i
Township. º 5 Bºº, Population in; sº
1854. 1866. 1851. 1861. ACréS.
# £ Persons. | Persons. Acres.
Aldingham. 7,695 || 8,640 | 968| 1,011 || 4,674
Allithwaite Lower 4,641 6,366 888 933 3,211
Allithwaite Upper 2,640 2,829 746 729 2,675
Angerton 455 551 32 31|| 1,200
Blawith 1,011 | 1,069| 229| 193| 2,995
Broughton East . 3,572 6,408 470 534 || 3,425
Broughton West. 5,389 || 7,098 || 1,297 | 1, 183| 7,298
Cartmell Fell . 2,734 3,072 351 308|| 4,959
Claife . 3,021 || 3,859 540|| 540 || 4,579
Church Coniston 1,938 3,427 | 1,287| 1,324 7,423
Colton . 8,471 10,560 | 2,008 || 1,794 || 14,322
Dalton . 19,447 | 68,128 || 4,683| 9,152 17,962
Dunnerdale and
Seathwaite 1,804 || 2,158 321 289 || 10,258
Egton with Newland 4,681 || 5,696 | 1,222, 1,231 3,661
Hawkshead, Monk
Coniston, and
Skelwith 5,686 7,063| 1,271 1,144|| 10,429
Holker Lower 4,096 || 5,444 1,225 | 1,160 2,387
Holker Upper 5,360 6,816 1,134|| 1,035 | 7,140
Kirkby Ireleth 8,287| 9,058| 1,728 1,666 8,502
Lowick 1,934 2,261 411 468 2,262
Mansriggs . 646 764 64 69 569
Osmotherley 1,867 2,806 325 419 | 1,929
Pennington 2,739 6,188 489 879 || 2,846
Satterthwaite 2,497 || 2,785 472 397 || 7,322
Staveley 2,919 3,365 399 409 || 4,199
Subberthwaite 682 856 I50 I52 | 1,567
Torver 998 || 1,384 I93 194| 3,816
Ulverston . 16,845 || 23,770| 6,742| 7,414|| 3,120
Urswick 5,486 || 6,797 | 891 | 1,080 3,905
Total of North Sands 127,996 |209,218 30,557 | 35,738|148,633
SOUTH OF THE SANDS.
Aldcliffe . 1,141 | 1,325 85 74 | 681
Arkholme With
Cawood g 2,997 || 3,643 330 331|| 3,016
Ashton with Stod-
day e e 2,120 2,519 173 184 1,459
Bolton-le-Sands . 4,543 6,471 686 692 | 1,570
Borwick ſº 1,487 | 1,638 I99 194 846
Bulk . º 2,423 2,661 124 109 | 1,138
Burrow with Burrow 2,578 2,882 228 225 2,426
Cantsfield . 1,626 1,763 155 116 1,222
Carnforth . 2,484 || 4,824 294 393 || 1,459
Caton e 5,735 | 7,036|| 1,434 1,160 | 8,395
Claughton . 1,339 1,851 I06 94 | 1,581
Cockerham. e 6,348 || 7,264 774 778 5,562
Cockersand Abbey 400 482 42 33 251
Dalton . . 1,664| 1,981| 100 | 129| 2,167
Ellel . 8,327 | 12,620 | 1,484 || 1,968 5,813
Farleton 1,223 1,359 75 75|| 1,051
Gressingham 2,026| 2, 182 I87 158| 2,015
Halton s & 4,831 5,287 718 670, 3,914
Heaton with Ox-
Cliffe 2,328 2,668 174 165 | 1,833
Heysham 3,112 || 3,862 593 567 | 1,744
Hornby 2,331 || 3,229 || 374|| 317 | 1,961
Ireby & 923 || 1,070 III 113 | 1,142
Nether Kellet 2,493 2,621 319 284 2,082
Over Kellet 3,410 || 4,047 488 425 || 3,210
Lancaster . 35,988|40,698 || 14,604 || 14,487 | 1,345
Leck . e e 2,203 || 2,550 285 324 || 4,637
Melling with Wrea- -
ton e 6. 1,358 | 1,809 197 169| 1,062
Middleton . 1,501 | 1,799 I85 182| 1,200
Overton 1,784| 2,081 334 305 | 1,125
Basis, Basis, a & Area in
Township. etc. etc. Population II]. Statute
1854. I866. I851. 1861. Acres.
SOUTH OF THE #3 # Persons. | Persons. | Acres.
SANDS—continued.
Poulton, Bare, and
Torrisholme . 5,422| 10,370 | 1,301 || 2,236 | 1,725
Priest Hutton 1,432 | 1,780 234 218 | 1,085
Quernmore. 4,862| 6,226 579 563 | 6,789
Roeburndale 1,948 2,483 206 144|| 8,840
Scotforth 5,860 | 8,106 693 955 2,880
Silverdale . 1,076 | 1,657 240 294 | 1,168
Skerton . º 5,393 || 7, 199| 1,586 1,556 | 1,275
Slyne with Hest. 2,937 4,218 309 312| 1,143
Tatham o 5,074 || 5,978 654 588 8,493
Thurnham . 2,197 || 2,944 706 717 | 1,252
Tunstall e 1,419 | 1,714 146 138|| 1,077
Warton with Lin-
deth 3,583| 5,732 600 581 | 2,824
Wennington 1,183 | 1,263 I89 180 || 4,980
Whittington 4,784 5,341 414 421 416
Wray with Botton | 3,557 || 4,491 833 797 || 6,525
Over Wyresdale . 4,094 || 4,822 680 524 || 17,318
Yealand Conyers 2,478 2,917 306 272| 2,136
Yealand Redmayne | 2,258| 2,984 226 209 | 1,582
Total of South Sands 170,280 |214,447 34,760 35,426 |137,445
Total of North Sands 127,996 |209,218 30,557 || 35,738|148,633
Total of Lonsdale
Hundred 298,276 |423,665 || 65,317| 71,164|286,078
AMOUNDERNESS HUNDRED.
Alston o 3,351 4,746 807 | 1,098 || 2,040
Barnacre with Bonds 5,692 8, 120 875 907 || 4,479
Barton 3,336|| 5, 191 370 343| 2,708
Bilsborrow . g 1,770 2,031 152 I76 581
Bispham with Nor-
breck & 2,665 3,840 293 437 | 1,624
Bleasdale 1,905 || 2,744| 295 || 372| 7,298
Broughton . * 6, 196|| 7,407 685 709 2,367
Bryning with Kella-
mergh . e 1,617 | 1,665 126 116 | 1,061
Cabus 1,863 | 2,493 238 209 | 1,388
Carleton 3,789 || 4,022 400 363 2,032
Catterall 3,065 3,718 | 1,036 867 | 1,742
Claughton , 4,575 6,077 64] 608 || 3,786
Cleveley . tº I,286 2,170 73 62 620
Clifton with Salwick 5,487 || 5,914 471 447 || 3,044
Eccleston Great . 2,589 3,220 631 641 | 1,458
Eccleston Little
with Larbrecl 1,625 | 1,862 215 209 | 1,132
Elston º t 1,005 941 54 53 962
Elswick 1,555 1,841 307 290 | 1,037
Fishwick 5,028 7,103 || 1,005 | 1,884 693
FortOn 2,271| 2,541 582 574 1,279
Freckleton . 3,792| 4,294 968 879 | 1,802
Fulwood 5,971 7,970 1,748| 2,313| 2,117
Garstang e 2,439| 2,450 839 71.4 503
Goosmargh with
Newsham 8,865| 10,535 | 1,453 1,307| 16,726
Greenhalgh with
Thistleton 2,880, 3,279 362 383 | 1,897
Grimsargh with
Brockholes . 3,108| 3,638 360 301 | 1,937
Haighton 1,388| 1,600 | 193| 222 | 1,078
Hambleton e 1,982| 2,590 346 366 1,553
Hardhorn with
Newton 4,385| 5, 197 386 386 2,651
Holleth 362 454 28 30 358
Hothersall. e 886| 1,383 I52 159 | 1,038
Inskipwith Sowerby|| 3,422| 3,888 | 680 | 663| 2,979
Kirkham d 5,737| 6,879| 2,799 || 3,380 857
Kirkland 1,905 | 1,996 429 388 974
Layton with
Warbreck 13,095 || 31,776 2,564 || 3,907 || 2,359

(The #istory of £ancashire—flutenna. 629


Basis, Basis, e g Area in Basis, Basis, - - 4.
Township. etc. etc. Population in Statute Township. etc. etc. Population in sº
1854. IS66. 1851. ..] 1861. ACreS. 1854. I866. 1851. 1861. ACreS.
AMOUNDERNESS £ £ | Persons. | Persons. Acres. BLACKBURN HUN- #9. £ |Persons. |Persons. | Acres.
HUND.—Contd. DRED–Contd.
Lea, Ashton, Ingol, Dilworth 2,664| 4,325 833 959| 1,248
and Cottam . 8,361 | 10,240 7.43 911| 3,487 | | Dinckley 606 605 151 I 20 608
Lytham 13,359 18,504| 2,698 || 3,194 5,310|| | Downham . 2,079| 2,066 362 292 2,300
Marton . 6,339| 8,526 1,650 | 1,691 4,707 || | Dunnockshaw 361 | 680 86 167 || 389
Medlar with Dutton . 1,597 | 1,760 446 312|| 1,899
Wesham 3,245 5,230 170 563| 1,966 | | Eccleshill . 1,634| 2,463| 598 543 797
Myerscough 4,181 5,322 459 426 2,707 || || Foulridge . . 4,172| 5,438|| 1,233 988 2,455
Nateby . º 2,327 | 2,742 325 385 2,087 | | Goldshaw Booth 1,720 2,606 620 406 || 2,034
Newton with Scales 2,332| 2,794 299 286 1,244|| Habergham Eaves || 33,840|| 64,000 | 12,549| 18,013| 4,217
Pilling 6,033| 7,441 1,281 | 1,388 6,058 || Hapton . e 4,186|| 9,108 550 | 1,003 || 4,008
Poulton . 4,011 || 4,221 | 1,120 | 1,141 914 || Harwood Great . B,374 11,008 || 2,548, 4,070 2,863
Preesall with Harwood Little . 1,930| 2,316 316 270 895
Hackinsall 4,510 || 5,335 823 812| 2,962 || Haslingden 18,102| 31,203 || 9,030| 10,109| 4,342
Preston 168,770 |201,637 | 68,537 81,101| 2,127 | | Henheads . 721 826 160 2II 317
Rawcliffe Out 4,605 || 5,789 791 771 || 4,432 || | Heyhouses . & 384 430 147 128 322
Rawcliffe Upper Higham with West-
with Tarnicar 4,128 4,873 697 682 3,816 Close-Booth . 2,029| 2,752| 839| 759| 1,584
Ribbleton . . 1,675 2,105 | 189| 175 649 || || Higher Booths 10,439| 17,497 3,827| 5,131 || 4,412
Ribby with Wrea 2,549 2,878 406 444 | 1,387 || || Huncoat . e 1,975 3,354 598 839 990
Singleton Great Ightenhill Park . 1,678| 2,205 176 I61 760
and Little 3,302 || 4,402| 293| 338|| 2,700 | | Livesay 6,903|| 15,344| 2,649 3,581 2,036
Stalmine with Lower Booths 8,408 || 14,500 3,778| 4,655 1,600
Stainall 2,884 || 3,548 508 471 2,583 || || Marsden 13,466| 24,907| 6,068| 7,342| 4,689
Thornton . 13,762| 21,144|| 4,134 5,084| 6,387 || Mearley 860 | 1,030 47 47 1,509
Treales, Roseacre, Mellor º 3,454|| 3,734|| 1,668. 1,398 || 1,744
and Wharles 5,285 6,076 696 632| 4,100 | | Mitton, Henthorn,
Warton º 2,638| 2,897 473 446 | 1,584 and Colcoats 839 982 74 62 873
Weeton with Preese 3,803 || 4,598 465 465| 2,973 || || Musbury . . 2,552| 3,567 1,228 997 | 1,714
Westby with Newchurch, Dead-
Plumpton 5,866 || 6,604 707 601 || 3,598 wenClough, Bacup,
Whittingham 4,028 4,722 677 583| 3,191 and Wolfenden . 35,891. 67,560 | 16,915| 24,413| 5,857
Winmarleigh 2,216 2,541 262 246 2,342 | | Old-Laund-Booth 751 901 447 423 431
Woodplumpton . 8,905 || 10,266 | 1,574 1,462 4,957 || || Osbaldeston 1,126|| 1, 197 250 238|| 1,084
Wyresdale Nether 4,271 5,229 704 667 || 4,215 | | Oswaldtwisle 17.138|| 29,234 || 7,654| 7,701 || 4,883
Total of Amounder- É. 1% *:::: #; ; #;
ness Hundred 14,272.525,299||13,248.180,728|162648 |pi. .#6 º 'º "42% iºdi
Ramsgreave 1,233 1,347 4.38 320 776
Read . . e 2,547| 3,687 449 531 | 1,548
Reedley-Hallows
T}LACKBURN HUNDRED. j."And
New-Laund-Booth 2,939 8,329 374 423| 1,446
Accrington New. 21,218 42,192 8,108 || 11,853 2,633 | | Ribchester . 3,087| 3,435 | 1,650 | 1,357| 2,212
Accrington Old . 7,677 | 19,581 2,266 5,835 792 | | Rishton . . 4,893 8,217 800 1, 198| 2,982
Aighton, Bailey, Roughlee Booth . 1,678 1,825 719 424| 1,141
and Chaigeley 5,978 || 6,590 | 1,613| 1,500| 6,300|| | Salesbury - 1,217 | 1,338 388 331 1,215
Altham . . . 2,123 2,785 426 410 | 1,440 || | Samlesbury 5,822| 6,260| 1,435 | 1,215| 4,379
Balderston . . 2,301 || 2,582 | 660 532| 1,808 || Simonstone 1,128 1,532| 365| 325| 1,026
Barley with Wheat- Thornley with
ley Booth . 1,816 || 2,316 542 485 2,625 Wheatley 2,441 3,039 491 409| 3,221
Barrowford Booth 5,556 | 8,673| 2,875 2,880 2,365 | | Tockholes . 2,299| 2,938 939 820 | 1,988
Billington . 4,047 5,225 882 | 1,038 3,139| | Trawden 5,181| 7,762| 2,601| 2,087| 6,808
Blackburn . . . . [101,470 180,641 46,536|| 63,126 3,681| | Twiston º 798 || 837| 161 141 || 865
Bowland with Walton-in-le-Dale | 18,024| 26,506| 6,855| 7,383| 4,664
Leagrim . 2,912| 3,213| 240|| 234|| 4,464| | Whalley . . . 3,334|| 4, 193| 945 806| 1,603
Briercliffe with WheatleyCarrBooth 278 340 40 46 254
Extwisle 3,856 5,240 | 1,612| 1,332| 4,227| | Wilpshire . 878 1,288 237 228| 1,002
Burnley 40,621 57,841 || 14,706 | 19,971 | 1,996 || | Wiswall 2,461| 2,675|| 747| 465 1,693
Chatburn 1,812| 2,340 503 521 894 | | Witton e 2,503 || 7,034| 1,367| 3,292 700
Chipping 4,907 || 5,377 | 1,134|| 1,074 5,634|| || Worsthorne with
Church º tº 7,165 15,350 2,035 | 4,753 528 Hurstwood 2,129 || 3,696 909 865 3,511
Clayton-in-le-Dale | 1,797 1,928 471 375 | 1,715| | Worston . . 1,013 | 1,113| 89 84| 1,088
Clayton-in-le-Moors ; ; 14,568 3,392 || 4,682| 1,059| || Yate & Pickup Bank | 1,664 1,776|| 1,208 || 1,111 850
Clitheroe . e 17,107 21,326 6,990 Total of Blackbur
Clitheroe Castle . 46 71 | 7,244 ’10 2,375 otºlº 8,0. n 9 -
Cliviger 7,752 12,780 1,441 1,770 6,818 Hundred 574,608|950,663|228,329 1286,955|182,524
º L h Né 17,156 | 19,814|| 8,987| 7,906 || 4,637
oupe, Lench, New-
i. and Hall IEYLAND HUNDRED.
Carr . . 5,083| 10,867 2,154| 2,851 | 1,499 || || Adlington . 3,890) 5,797 | 1,090. 1,975|| 1,064
Cuerdale 985| 1,077 80 56 684| | Anderton . 1,830| 2,448 284 243 1,229
Darwen Lower 8,203|| 11,126|| 3,521 3,301 || 2,667| | Bispham 1,643 1,682 270 277 926
Darwen Over 20,143| 44,215 11,702 | 16,492 || 5,135 | | Bretherton. 3,871 || 4,539 818 775|| 2,429
630 (ſiſt £igforg of 3Lancashire—ºbbemba.



Basis, Basis, • * & Basis, Basis, e - Area in
Township. etc. etc. Population in sº Township. etc. º Population in Statute
1854. 1866. 1851. 1861. ACres. 1854. 1866. 1851. 1861. ACrèS.
LEYLAND HUNDRED £ #3 Persons. Persons. Acres. SALFORD HUN- #3 #} Persons. | Persons. | ACreS.
—Continued. DRED–00mtd.
Brindle º o 5,503| 6,298 1,310 | 1,501 || 3,104
Charnock Richard 4,743| 4,784 872 899 || 1,946 || |Bradford 5,094 | 10,320 | 1,572 3,523 288
Chorley . . 31,171 || 43,004|12,684 15,013 || 3,614 || |Bradshaw 3,749 4,407 853 792 | 1,156
Clayton-in-le-Woods 2,910| 3,159 747 705 | 1,431 || |Breightmet 4,302 5,850 | 1,540 | 1,562 873
Coppull º 5,677| 5,407 | 1,107 | 1,230 2,280 || |Broughton 52,202 || 70,551 || 7,126 9,885 | 1,426
Croston 5,087| 6,823| 1,500 | 1,790 2,361 || |Burnage 2,984 3,791 563 624 666
Cuerden 2,778] 3,130 521 666 808 || |Bury . º 73,099 || 92,446 25,484 || 30,397 2,330
Duxbury 2,509| 2,476 || 324 341 | 1,012 || |Butterworth . 20,281 32,006 || 5,786 6,704 || 7,671
Eccleston 4,142|| 4,795 671 965 2,089 || |Castleton 57,201
Euxton . 7,826, 8,446 1,631 | 1,491 2,934 Municipal tº a tº 48,244
Farington 7,923| 8,611 1,932 | 1,791 | 1,860 Rural 41,839
Heapey . ſº 1,895| 1,888 495 396 || 1,464 •-
Heath Charnock . 3,622| 4,830 799 772 1,598 90,083 |17,400 || 23,771 3,812
Hesketh with Chadderton 18,739 || 33,463 6,188 || 7,486 || 3,138
Becconsall 2,307| 4,439 692 804 || 1,974 || |Cheetham 58,981 || 75,470 11,175 17,446 919
Heskin 1,882| 2,046 358 439 1,243 || |Chorlton-on-
Hoghton . 4,750| 4,549 | 1,373 1,201 || 2,232 Medlock 143,151 | 162,952 |35,558 44,795 647
Hoole Little 1,553| 2,531 202 424 1,201 || |Chorlton-cum-
Hoole Much 2,661| 2,970 775 708 || 1,746 Hardy 4,241 6, 193 761 739 1,280
Howick 1,034|| 1,163 || 116 93 574 || || Clifton . 10,170 || 14,982 1,647 2,140 | 1,194
Hutton 3,473| 3,777 500 461 | 2,125 Crompton 16,063 22,985 6,375|| 7,032 2,865
Leyland 11,797 || 14,446 3,617 | 3,755 3,726 || |Crumpsall 13,848 || 19,895 || 3,151 4,285 733
Longton . 5,418| 6,623| 1,687 | 1,637 3,154 | | Denton . 7,568 || 11,351 3,146 || 3,335 | 1,706
Mawdesley . 5,068| 5,263| 887 912 2,934 | | Didsbury 9,780 | 13,552 1,449 | 1,829 | 1,553
Parbold 2,383| 3,093 473 || 474 | 1,159 Droylsden 16,902 || 24,903 || 6,280 8,798 || 1,621
Penwortham 7,528| 8,028 1,487 | 1,506 || 2,231 || |Edgeworth 3,513 4,189 1,230 1,350 2,925
Rufford 4,734 6,455 | 861 | 865 3,120 | | Elton 22,360 || 32,056 6,778 8,172 2,553
Shevington . e 4,690| 7,694 | 1,147 1,615 1,728 || |Entwisle 1,921 2,715 486 422 | 1,668
Standish with Failsworth 10,527 | 16,967 4,433| 5,113 | 1,073
Langtree 10, 178] 17,348 2,655 3,054 3,264 || ||Farnworth 17,403 29,965 6,389 || 8,720 | 1,502
Tarleton 6,844 8,838|| 1,945 1,987 5,535 | | Flixton. 5,797 6,476 | 1,334|| 1,302 | 1,565
Ulmes Walton 3,602 || 4,151 556 || 488 2,105 Gorton . 17, 132 || 41,485 4,476 9,897 | 1,484
Welsh Whittle 892|| 1,822 140 148 597 || || Halliwell 14,924 24,406 || 3,959 5,953 2,479
Wheelton . º 3,012| 4,384| 1,041 | 1,260 | 1,696 || |Harpurhey 2,274 3,452 458 827 193
Whittle-in-le-Woods 4,894 5,492 2,310 2,151 1,355 | | Harwood 3,410 4,788 2,057 2,055 | 1,240
Withnell . 5,010| 6,227 1,975 2,059 3,620 || |Haughton 5,636 || 10,830 3,042 3,371 887
Worthington 1,877| 2,390 176 I33 659 Heap 42,808 || 53,646 | 16,048 || 17,353 2,938
Wrightington 6,431 6,949 1,613 | 1,618 3,916 Heaton . t 4,912 8,909 826 955 1,744
Total of Leyland #º #| ##| || || ||
- €8,üOIl LI101,162 2 5
Hundred 199,038'248,795 53,641 58,622 | 84,043 Heaton Norris 47,202 f
Municipal - - - 40,337
Rural 13,050
SALFORD HUNDRED. - 53,387 | 15,697 | 16,333 2,115
Hopwood 8,326 16,342 | 1,575 2,281 || 2,126
Ainsworth 5,419 5,691 | 1,781 | 1,803 1,309 | | Horwich 11,799 || 14,027 | 3,952 || 3,471 3,255
Alkrington 1,569 | 1,904 || 373 423 798 || || Hulme . . 145,023 180,073 53,482 | 68,433 477
AnleZargh 997 1,665 I79 134 2,793 || || Hulton Little 8,110 || 13,862 3,184 3,390 | 1,707
Ardwick 49,898 || 69,171 15,777 21,757 509 || || Hulton Middle 4,420 4,594 888 790 | 1,517
Ashton-under- Hulton Over . 3,899 5,205 452 447 | 1,316
Lyne . 150,370 Kearsley 13,732 20,031 || 4,236 5,003 || 997
Municipal us e e 127,400 Levenshulme. 7,342 9,364 | 1,902 || 2,095 606
Rural 78,627 Lever, Darcy. 5,654 6,018 2,091 2,071 499
- * Lever, Great . 6,373 || 10,958 713 722 867
206,027 56,959 66,801 || 9,494 | | Lever, Little. 10,553 15,690 3,511 3,890 807
Ashworth 1,230 1,605 277 233 | 1,021 || ||Longworth. 962 1,722 I52 154 | 1,654
Aspull . 10,265 14,556 3,278 4,290 1,905 || ||Lostock 3,688 || 4,718 620 580 | 1,520
Barton-upon- Manchester 730,346 |882,998 |186,986] 185,410 | 1,646
Irwell 42,319 55,310 | 12,687 14,216 10,622 || || Middleton 18,434 21,814 | 8,717 | 9,876 | 1,930
Beswick 1,928 3,000 404 88.1 96 Moss Side 12,396 || 21,691 943 2,695 421
Birtle-cum-Bam- Moston 6,446 7,975 904 | 1,199 || 1,297
ford . 6,287 6,888 1,850 2,350 | 1,429 || ||Newton 36,518 43,259 || 10,801 || 14,907 | 1,585
Blackrod. 8,442 | 13,812 2,509 || 2,911 2,388 || |Oldham 119,669 214,242 |52,820 | 72,333 4,665
Blakeley º 8,231 || 10,685 3,503 4,112 | 1,840 | | Openshaw 14,011 || 28,532 || 3,759 8,623 579
Blatchinworth & - Pendlebury 13,252
Calderbrook 12,245 18,416 3,895 || 4,860 || 4,788 Municipal • * * 3,090
Bolton Great 93,352 118,356 39,923 || 43,435 826 Rural 19,482
Bolton Little 49,688 sº-
Municipal is * * 79,014 22,572 2,750 3,548 | 1,031
Rural . 5,704 Pendleton 58,334 | 84,497 || 14,224| 20,900 2,254
-º-º-º: Pilkington 34,070 44,255 | 12,863 | 12,303 || 5,469
84,718 20,468 25,891 1,779 || ||Pilsworth 4,150 4,650 373 343 | 1,482

(The #istory of £ancashire—globemba. 631

Basis, Basis, Population in Area in - Basis, Basis, Population in Area in
Township. etc. etc. Statute Township. etc. etc. Statute
1854. 1866. 1851. I861. A CreS. 1854. 1866. I851. I861. Acres.
SALFORD Hus: #3 #3 Persons. Persons. | Acres. WEST DERBY # #3 Persons.|Persons. Acres.
DRED–Comid. |HUND.—Contal.
Prestwich 13,833 22,557 || 4,096 || 5,288 | 1,917 | | Bold 7,636 9,647 || 773 || 798 || 4,483
Quarlton 1,131 1,390 36] 253 798 || Bootle cum
Radcliffe 24,508 || 36,158 || 6,293 || 8,838 2,533 Linacre 18,538 || 45,254 || 4,106 || 6,414 1,207
Reddish 8,354.1 .304 || 1,218 1,363 | 1,541 || Burscough II,032 || 13,219 2,480 2,461 || 4,960
Rivington 2,106 || 3,451 || 412 369 2,768 || || Burtonwood 8,499 || 10,507 || 831 || 990 || 4,192
Royton 17,632 | 19,263 6,974 7,493 | 1,372 Childwall 2,899 3,800 166 174 831
Rumworth 4,883 || 7,511 | 1,386 1,861 | 1,244 | | Cronton . º 2,305 2,393 439 412 | 1,154
Rusholme 25,817 | 33,906 || 3,679 5,380 | 974 || || Crosby Great . 12,700 28,832 || 2,403 || 3,794 | 2,168
Salford 159,328 189,587 |63,423| 71,002 | 1,329 || | Crosby Little . 3,489 4,500 | 407 || 418 1,815
Sharples 11,076 || 13,236 || 3,904 3,294 || 4,000 Croxteth Park 1,698 1,614 41 46 959
Spotland 75,645 Cuerdley 2,426 3,329 193 192 | 1,574
Municipal - - - 22,917 Culcheth 9,430 | 12,254 2,395 2,214 5,369
Rural 79,867 Dalton 3,203 3,329 462 453 2,104
− Ditton t 3,787 5,082 584 || 764 1,898
102,784 || 23,476 30,378 || 14,174 Downholland . 4,867 5,470 756 748 || 3,473
Stretford 28,669 || 49,960 4,998 || 8,757 3,255 Eccleston 21,356 28,627 | 8,509 11,640 3,569
Thornham 5,346 6,950 | 1,510 2,027 | 1,936 Everton . 81,000 |208,047 |25,883 |54,848 693
Todmorden and Fazackerley 5,052 5,852 427 407 | 1,709
Walsden 25,719 || 34,067 || 7,699 || 9,146 7,007 || || Formby . 6,489 || 9,037 1,594 | 1,780 | 6,624
Tonge - 6,529 || 11,760 || 3,831 4,606 || 392 || || Garston . 21,537 || 36,300 2,756 4,720 | 1,625
Tonge with Golborne 5,397 || 11,403 | 1,910 2,776 1,679
Haulgh 8,721 Haigh 7,094 | 8,102 | 1,220 | 1,171 2,135
Municipal - - - 6,962 Hale e 3,453 3,714 629 648 1,651
Rural 6.250 |Halewood 6,617 | 9,748 1,146 | 1,205 || 3,824
— Halsall 8,599 || 10,504 || 1,194 | 1,204 || 6,995
13,242 2,826 3,539 | 1,099 || || Haydock 8,804 || 11,983 | 1,994 || 3,615 2,409
Tottington Hindley . ... 16,000 || 25,271 || 7,023 8,477 2,611
Higher End 12,466 15,785 2,958 3,726 3,545 || Houghton, Mid- *
Tottington dleton,& Arbury 1,614 2,019 238 253 853
Lower End 26,894 || 33,277 | 10,691 | 11,764 5,271 Huyton with Roby 14,968 || 23,179 || 1,785 2,079 2,879
Turton . 11,209 | 15,012 || 4,158 || 4,513 || 4,614 | | Ince Blundell . 4,771 5,660 561 572 2,316
Urmston 3,871 4,172 730 748 993 Ince in Makerfield| 20,701 || 48,070 3,670 | 8,266 2,320
Walmersley-cum Kenyon . 4,587 5,779 293 274 1,685
Shuttleworth 16,856 20,684 || 4,802 || 5,298 || 5,065 || || Kirkby . 7,114 || 9,502 1,460 | 1,415 || 4, 175
Wardleworth. 41,399 Kirkdale 31,505 || 155,648 || 9,893 |16,135 | 841
Municipal • * tº 46,348 Knowsley 9,364 9,826 1,486 | 1,349 5,058
Rural 5,989 Lathom . 18,406 21,821 3,291 3,385 8,694
--- Litherland 12,491 23,661 2,252 3,632 | 1,205
52,337 14,103 || 17,840 || 766 || || Liverpool 1,040,400||1,520,391]258,236|269,742 1,858
Westhoughton | 12,026 18,811 4,547 5,156 || 4,341|| || Lowton . 5,611 || 7,165 2,140 2,384 1,830
Withington . 12,027 23,404 || 1,492 2,712 2,501 || || Lunt 1,126 1,153 75 78 || 477
Worsley . 31,684 || 37,239 10,189 || 11,875 6,928 || || Lydiate . 5,171 6,133 | 842 | 848 || 1,995
Wuerdale and Maghull . 7,430 8,555 | 1,056 | 1,144 2,098
Wardle 19,769 Melling . 5,160 5,809 662 728 2,137
Municipal * * * 515 Nº. 2,632 3,400 258 286 1,126
* 3.369 ewton in
Rural 28.809 Makerfield | 14,848 || 28,424 3,719 5,909 || 3,103
23,884 || 7,855 8,201 3,523 North Meols . 27,605 || 81,302 || 8,694 14,661 8,467
Ormskirk 10,308 || 12,338 6,183 6,426 573
Total of Salford Orrell . . 4,793 5,486 || 2,762 2,932 1,618
Hundred. 3,049,2634,082,799.937,5891,112,951|224,843| | Orrell and Ford 2,344 2,800 279 || 358 | 727
' | Parr . 10,628 19,342 4,875 | 8,253 | 1,633
Pemberton 13,339 22,557 5,252 6,870 2,894
Penketh . 2,789 4,054 #. 784 | 1,003
Pennington 9,676 13,666 4,573 || 5,015 1,483
WEST DERBY HUNDRED. #."ºth
Fearnhead 3,732 4,234 708 672 | 1,320
Abram 4,990 6,624 968 911 1,982 Prescot 9,092 9,050 6,393 || 5,136 270
Aintree . 3,212 3,829 || 312 || 300 850 | | Rainford . 8,622 | 12,123 2,333 2,784 || 5,873
Allerton . 6,267 9,539 482 559 586 Rainhill . 7,682 10,826 1,522 || 2,130 | 1,640
Altcar 5,600 5,868 501 540 || 4,079 Rixton with
Ashton in Glazebrook 3,471 4,402 || 796 752 2,988
Makerfield 16,822 || 32,393 || 5,679 6,566 6,250 Sankey Great . 3,655 5,658 527 563 | 1,923
Astley 7,325 8,594 2,237 2,109 || 2,685 Scarisbrick 12,128 15,367 2,109 || 2,112 || 8,397
Atherton 13,070 22,490 4,655 5,907 2,426 Sefton 2,763 3,209 433 430 1,233
Aughton 11,854 15,271 1,655 | 1,870 4,610 || || Simonswood 2,976 3,537 || 470 461 2,626
Bedford . 12,008 || 15,929 5,384 || 6,558 2,826 Skelmersdale . 3,366 7,477 760 | 1,028 1,941
Bickerstaffe 9,785 11,725 | 1,667 1,637 6,445 Southworth with -
Billinge Chapel Croft, 3,743 4,715 | 1,097 | 1,094 | 1,883
End . e 3,445 5,091 1,777 2,015 1,161 Speke 4,837 5,750 534 571 2,505
Billinge Higher Sutton 26,667 49,213 || 5,288 || 9,223 3,726
End . . 3,438 3,903 900 | 1,051 1,571 | | Thornton 2,041 2,264 298 || 291 || 774
Birkdale 2,678 || 11,909 625 | 1,286 2,215 Torbock. 3,799 4, 142 681 626 2,447
632 Qſìje #igturn of 3Lancashire—ºnenta.


Basis, Basis, . ... ... Area i º g e e •r, o +
Township. º * Population in sº Township, Bºº, º, Population in sº
1854. I866. 1851. 1861. Acres. 1854, 1866.3 1851. 1861. | ACres.
WEST DERBy #9 #3 Persons. |Persons. | Acres. WEST DERBY 3. #3 Persons | Persons. Acres.
HUND.—Comtd. HUND.—Contd.
Toxteth Park. 185,92 Westleigh 8,728 17,191 || 3,750 || 4,434 | 1,883
Municipal. tº gº tº 266,800 Whiston. 8,658 9,547 | 1,825 | 1,727 | 1,783
Rural 30,650 Widnes . II,195 || 30,564 3,217 | 6,905 || 3,040
*mº-º-º-º: Wigan 63,894 | 84,847 (31,941 [37,658 2,188
- g 297,450 |61,334 69,284 2,352 Windle . * 24,042 43,324 9,370 12,229 3,150
Tyldesley with Winstanley . 4,592 6,206 675 633 1,859
Shackerley 14,152 17,875 5,397 6,029 2,490 | | Winwick with
Upholland 12,147 || 14,423 3,359 || 3,463 4,685 Hulme . 5,337 7,241 469 451 1,440
Walton-on-the- Woolston with
Hill tº . . 18,487 22,881 2,469 3,598 || 1,944 Martinscroft 2,774 2,936 516 496 | 1,566
Warrington 52,390 - Woolton Little 6,333 8,715 | 1,016 | 1,062 | 1,388
Mºiral e g is tº º Woolton Much 11,222 15,802 || 3,669 3,586 970
Ullºa, ,847 Total of West
Wavertree 27,782 45,798 || 4,011 5,392 | 1,838 -
West Derby 144, 190
Municipal. * & ºr 136,179
Rural 109,476
245,655 (32,973 |52,694 | 6,203
SUMMARY.
Basis, etc. Basis, etc. Population in Area in
E[undred. 5 g *
I854. 1866. 1851. 1861. Statute Acres.
#3 & Persons. JPersons. Acres.
Lonsdale 298,276 423,665 65,317 71,164 286,078
Amounderness 414,272 525,239 113,243 130,728 162,643
Blackburn . 574,608 950,663 228,329 286,955 182,524
Leyland 199,038 248,795 53,641 58,622 84,043
Salford 3,049,263 4,082,799 937,589 1,112,951 224,843
West Derby 2,374,199 3,798,806 633,117 769,020 253,587
Grand Total of County . 6,909,656 10,029,967 2,031,236 2,429,440 1,193,718

Signed, by order of the Committee,
J. SHEPHERD BIRLEY, Chairman.
Two or three Tables present useful summaries —
No. 1.-TABLE SHOWING THE WALUATION OF THE WARIOUS PooB-LAW UNIONS IN THE COUNTY (1866).
|Union. Total. Union. Total.
Ashton-under-Lyne £253,111 Oldham £332,381
Barton-upon-Irwell 168,139 Ormskirk 266,792
Blackburn . 369,162 Prescot 310,614
Bolton 454,330 Preston 356,550
Burnley 270,961 Prestwich 218,284
Bury 347,698 Rochdale 319,510
Caton 72,129 Salford 367,207
Chorley 161,320 Stockport 61,691
Chorlton 594,114 Todmorden 34,067
Clitheroe 59,384 Toxteth Park 30,650
Fylde, The 158,443 TJlverston 209,218
Garstang 87,312 Warrington 157,128
Haslingden 223,578 West Derby 369,323
Lancaster 117,082 Wigan 332,144
Leigh 132,346 Not in Union 25,236
Liverpool 2,287,065 - -----------------
Manchester 882,998 Total £10,029,967
(The #istorm of 3Lancashire—ºnnenba. 633
No. 2.—VALUATION OF BOROUGHS HAVING GRANTS OF QUARTER-SESSIONS.

. . . Valuation | Waluation * , 4 Valuation | Valuation
Borough. Comprising the Of the Of the Borough. Comprising the Of the Of the
Townships of Township. | Borough. Townships of Township. Borough.
f £ - £ £
Great Bolton . º #: ſ| Manchester º º sº Y
Little Bolton (part of 79,014 Ardwick . e w 69,1
Bolton . Tonge with º 204,332 Manchester | Beswick . . º 3,000 h 373,664
(part of) e 6,962 (City) º Chorlton-on-Medlock 162,952 | f ****
ſ| Liverpool . 0. . 1,520,391 - | Cheetham & e 75,470 |
Everton . º e 208,047 Hulme . º . 180,073 |J
Liverpool | Kirkdale . - o 155,648|} 2,287,065 Wigan . Wigan º tº - - 84,847
Toxteth Park (part of) 266,800 - *-
U| West Derby (part of) 136,179 Total || 3,949,908
No. 3. — VALUATION OF BOROUGHS NOT HAVING No. 4.—THE FOLLOWING TOWNSHIPS ARE NOT LIABLE
GRANTS OF QUARTER-SESSIONS, HAVING THEIR TO CONTRIBUTE TowARDS THE REPAIRS OF ANY
OWN POLICE, AND NOT LIABLE TO BE RATED BRIDGES.
FOR COUNTY CONSTABULARY PURPOSES.

Valuation |Total exempt
- Hundred. Township. Of . Hº º
* * Valuation | Valuation Township. ll Il CLI'êCl.
Comprising the
Borough. º f th f th
OTOll Townships of Tºp Bºi.
Lonsdale . . Lancaster . e £40,698 £40,698
Ashton and || Ashton-under-Lyne, #127,400 Amounderness §. º g *::: 201,637
Stalybridge (part of) e e e 2 Blackburn e - e. 2 21,397
ypridg J. Clitheroe Castle . 71
Blackburn . Blackburn . - e * * * 180,641 West Derb Altcar 5,868 || 13, 109
Lancaster | Lancaster . º e * @ & 40,698 'est Derby *-*. . . ; º 2 3
Oldham . Oldham . . . & ºr - 214,242 Winwick with Hulme 7,241 || “.
Preston . | Preston & º º # 6 º' 201,637 -
Castleton (part of) . |{48,244 2 £276,841
Spotland (part of) g 22,917 :-row, -
Rochdale Wardleworth (part of) e 46,348 | 118, 024 West Derby º º g l, * ; º ;
Wuerdle&Wardle (part of) 515 o o e 5 2
Broughton . º . 70,551
º Pendlebury (part of) . 3,090 #1,605,238
| Salford Pendlet 84,497 347,725
sº i OIl . - 189.58% Valuation of County ea. Boroughs having separate
* N... ... * ,58 Quarter Sessions . º g . £6,080,059
Stockport. Heaton Norris (part of) * * 9 40,337 Deduct Townships exempt from contri-
Warrington Warrington (part of) . tº & tº 60,779 buting as above º º - 276,841
Total . £1,331,483 Valuation upon which Rates are levied for
- - - * * * County and Hundred Bridges - . £5,803,218
Valuation of Boroughs as above, maintaining Valuation of Boroughs having separate Quarter-
their own Police «» º º . £1,331,483 Sessions º & . £3,949,908
Valuation of Boroughs having separate Courts Deduct—Liverpool and Wigan
of Quarter-Sessions . - - • º 3,949,908 Townships exempt º 1,605,238
gº.281.89281.391 Valuation for Orders upon Boroughs
3 * * +3 having separate ter-Sessi -
Valuation of part of County rateable for County g Sep Quarter-Sessions 2,344,670
Constabulary e & º 4,748,576 Total Valuation of the County contributing
e --—- towards the repair of C d H
Total Valuation of the County . £10,029,967 Bridges p - º an undred £8,147,888
The following Table shows the amounts of various rates laid for different purposes, as County and Hundred
Bridges, Houses of Correction, salary of Chairman of Quarter-Sessions, and payments for the County Consta-
º In each column we have omitted the shillings and pence, as immaterial to the substantial
result :—
4 M
634 (Iije Đigturn of £antagiſtre @bbemba.
NO. 5.—VALUATION OF THE WHOLE OF THE COUNTY IN HUNDREDS, INCLUDING BOROUGHS HAVING GRANTS
OF QUARTER-SESSIONS. THE AMOUNTS STATED IN THE HEADS OF THE COLUMNS INDICATE THE AMOUNT
OF A RATE AT SO MUCH IN THE POUND ON THE BASIS OR STANDARD,

7-8ths | Thre 5–8ths 3-8ths 3-16ths | 1-8th 1-12t - * -
HUNDREDS. Aº Rate of ". * Of a Half- º º: of a of a Of º lºh lºh º º
ALUE. a penny, penny. things. |apenny. penny. penny. ling. penny. penny. penny. penny. penny. penny.
f :6 :É £ f £ f £ f £ f £ :6 £
Lonsdale . 423,665 | 1,765 | 1,544 1,323| 1,103 || 882 | 661 441 || 330 220 | 1.47 | IIO 73 55
Amounderness 525,239| 2,188 1,914 | 1,641 | 1,367 | 1,094 820 547 || 410 273 182 136 9] 68
Blackburn . 950,663 || 3,961 || 3,465 2,970 2,475|| 1,980 | 1,485| 990 || 742 495 || 330 247 | 165 | 123
Leyland g 248,795 | 1,036 907 777 647 518 388 259 | 194 129 86 64 43 32
Salford . 4,082,799||17,011|14,885|12,758|10,632| 8,505 || 6,379| 4,252, 3,189 2,126 1,417 | 1,063 || 708 || 531
West Derby 3,798,806 || 15,828||13,849 |II,871 || 9,892|| 7,914|| 5,935, 3,957| 2,967 1,978 1,319 989 659 494
Total . |f|10,029,967|41,791|36,567 31,343|26,119 |20,895 15,671|10,447| 7,835 | 5,223 || 3,482 2,611 | 1,741 | 1,305
PROPERTY AND INCOME TAX RETURNS FOR LANCASHIRE,
FOR THE YEAR ENDED 5TH APRIL 1860.
The parliamentary return, No. 546 of Session 1860—the latest issued containing these details—gives
many valuable and interesting statistical facts and figures as to the gross annual value of property assessed
under schedules A and B of the Property and Income Tax Act, and the net amount of profits charged under
schedule D, in every parish of Lancashire. An abstract of these returns for the entire county presents the fol-
lowing:—The gross value of the property assessed under schedule A is classed under thirteen heads, viz.—
lands, £1,604,276; messuages, £7,019,978; tithes, £1514; manors, £44,344; fines, £106; quarries, £34,667;
mines, £633,420; ironworks, £5068; fisheries, £426; canals, £197,499; railways, £1,564,366; gasworks,
£191,460; other property and profits, £156,727. The total gross annual value of property in Lancashire
assessed under schedule A in that year was £11,453,851. The gross annual value of property assessed
under schedule B was £1,604,586. The net amount of profits charged under schedule D was £14,410,307.
So that the annual value of property assessed under schedules A and B was £13,058,437; yet this large
amount was exceeded by the net amount of profits during the same year, which is a larger sum by £1,351,870
than the gross annual value of all the descriptions of property specified. These proportions become very
different if the whole of England is included; which in the same year showed a total gross annual value of
property under schedules A and B of £147,623,629; while the net amount of profits under schedule D was
£75,763,808, or little more than half the amount of the former."
In the following return we have omitted the columns giving the amounts of annual value for tithes,
manors, fines, quarries, ironworks, and fisheries; of some of which the amounts are very small, none of them
reaching £50,000. The totals under these heads within the county are stated above. The words in capitals
in the first column denote the hundreds or divisions, within which the parishes or places are locally situated.
* The income charged under schedule D for the United Kingdom in the year ended April 5, 1866, was thus made up —
Class Amount of Bersons Class Amount of Persons
* Income. Charged. e Income. Charged
Under £100 a-year g . £2,844,396 65,103 #2,000 and under £3,000 . . . £5,514,648 2,406
£100 and under £200 . tº 14,738,413 168,683 3,000 2 5 4,000 . . 4,097,118 1,248
200 2 3 300 . e 10,660,408 48,183 4,000 2 3 5,000 . . 2,806,722 654
300 2 3 400 . º 6,530,115 20,528 5,000 5 § 10,000 . . 8,984,267 1,361
400 5 5 500 . º 4,460,778 10,683 10,000 2 2 50,000 . . 18,573,473 959
500 2 2 600 . e 4,189,889 8,145 50,000 and upwards . tº . 13,380,791 133
600 3 3 700 . g 2,856,789 4,641 •- ~-º-º-º-sº
700 2 3 800 . º 2,141,144 2,954 #114,851,159 347,110
800 22 900 . g 2,006,284 2,457
900 5 5. 1000 . g 1,023,682 1,110 Showing an increase in the amount of income of £9,415,372
1000 ,, . 2000 V. * 10,042,132 7,862 over the previous year.
Çije Đígtorg of £ancašijire—ºblemba. 635
Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of . | Total Gross Gross
the following heads:— Annual Annual Net
M. º: A.# #;
I'Opér r
PARISHES OR PLACES. Other Å; Å; º
Lands. | Messuages. | Mines. Canals. Railways. * P* S : 6 S : € sº€
ProfitS. (A). (B). (D).
AMOUNDERNESS. :6 . f 26 #3 f 26 £ £ £ f
Alston . - ſº 3,852 1,377 tº e Q is s a • * e tº e º 4 5,268 3,852 656
Ashton, Lea, and Ingo 7,365 2,103 203 9,883 7,365 2,797
| Barnacre . - e 5,178 63]. “s e º 5,809 5,178 1,435
| Barton 3,466 296 º 3,782 3,466 835
Bilsborough 1,272 183 e e 1,455 1,272 250
Bispham . 2,843 464 e - 3,307 2,843 66
| Bleasdale . 2,028 390 & e - 2,418 2,028 555
Broughton 5,064 1,789 9 6,862 5,064 970
Bryning 1,715 tº º º a & e 1,715 1,715
Cabus 2,037 229 2,266 2,037
Carleton 3,864 41 3,905 3,864
Catterall . 2,487 1,364 3,851 2,487 1,159
Claughton 4,088 602 4,690 4,088 197
Cleveley 766 I3 779 766
Clifton º 5,396 262 5,658 5,396
Eccleston, Great 2,713 924 3,637 2,713 475
Eccleston, Little 1,851 I08 1,959 1,851 20
Elston e º 998 tº e º 998 998
Elswick 1,730 II5 1,845 1,730
Fishwick . 1,681 5,700 7,431 1,681 7,834
Forton 2,177 431 2,663 2,177 I
Freckleton 3,434 779 & s & 4,213 3,434 349
Fulwood 4,156 1,995 67 6,218 4,156 900
Garstang . 1,547 1,127 I0 2,684 1,547 2,530
Goosnargh 9,676 599 tº $ tº 10,275 9,676 446
Greenhalgh 2,987 820 275 4,082 2,987
Grimsargh 2,581 677 & © ºt 3,258 2,581 500
Haighton . 1,497 53 4 1,554 1,497
Hambleton 2,429 64 tº a 2,493 2,429 300
Hardhorn . 4,455 91 & & e 4,546 4,455
Holleth 413 41 5 459 413
Inskip 3,679 69 * * * e e e 3,748 3,679 200
Kirkham . 1,972 5,281 I62 35 7,450 1,972 8,987
Kirkland . I,847 262 & s tº * * * 2,109 1,847 25
Layton 4,005 | 12,881 150 210 || 17,246 4,005 || 11,762
Lytham . - 6,032 9,258 135 e ‘e e 15,425 6,032 6,320
Marton, Great . 3,996 404 tº e º 4,400 3,996 194
Marton, Little , 3,529 83 tº s e 3,612 3,529 20
Medlar . 2,703 718 20 3,441 2,703 4,200
Myerscough 4,220 403 e tº e 4,623 4,220 25
Nateby 2,539 8 e 2,547 2,539
Newton . 2,495 152 • * 2,647 2,495 I
Out Rawcliffe 5,428 163 tº º 5,591 5,428 435
Pilling . º 6,600 250 tº e 6,850 6,600 6]
Poulton-le-Fylde 2,339 1,459 * * 3,798 2,339 1,671
Preesall º 5,059 292 a tº e 5,351 5,059 175
Rawcliffe, Upper 4,296 932 5 5,233 4,296 50
Ribbleton . 1,391 302 211 1,904 1,391 300
Ribby 2,569 263 & sº e 2,832 2,569 S0
Singleton . 4,042 88 62 4,192 4,042 S0
Stalmine 3,339 67 * * * I5 3,421 3,339 250
Thornton . 8,364 || 7,889 200 6 | 16,459 8,364 || 9,437
Treales 5,295 26 tº 4 tº tº 9 e 5,321 5,295 I00
Warton 2,782 28 I50 2,960 2,782
Weeton 3,841 I33 4 3,978 3,841 25
Westby 5,601 I85 14 5,800 5,601 I80
Whittingham 4,480 153 108 4,741 4,480 203
Winmarleigh 2,449 34 tº s e 2,483 2,449
Woodplumpton 9,038 478 40 tº º 9,516 9,038 458
Wyersdale 3,160 732 3,892 3,160 1,789
212,836 66,261 647 1,417 281,533 212,836 69,243
BLACKBURN.
Accrington, New 4,325 | 24,655 8,409 e & ºl 207 37,596 4,325 52,010
Accrington, Old e 1,348 11,641 e - - 1,900 149 15,038 1,348 11, 175
Aighton, Bailey, and
Chaigeley . e 5,344 1,328 6,726 5,344 1,790
Altham . . . 2,200 360 tº a º * e ºa tº s 2 2,580 2,200 1,350
Bacup with Wolfenden 5,506 || 25,603 2,000 1,400 1,468 36,067 5,506 31,777
Balderstone - 2,254 339 9.6 tº e tº t & tº 2,593 2,254 198

636
(Iije Đigturn ºf £antagijire—3 UNEmba.


Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of | Total Gross Gross
the following heads:— Annual Annual Net,
A.; ..., | #.
I’Ober r *
PARISHES OR PLACES. - - Other Å; Å; êº
Lands. | Messuages. | Mines. | Canals. Railways. * Pºw sº sº sº
ProfitS. (A). (B). (D).
BLACKBURN–Comtd. :6 £ £ £ £ £ £ ":6 £ f
Barley-cum-Wheatley 1,818 415 © g tº tº e e 2,233 1,818 400
Barrowford Booth 3,643 4,066 # * @ 45 7,754 3,643 5,980
Billington 3,496 1,213 * @ tº 10 4,719 3,496 1,885
Blackburn & g 6,446 143,757 6,000 || 13,299 || 170,703 6,446 220,806
Bowland with Leagram | 3,242 34 * * *. 20 3,296 3,242
Briercliffewith Extwisle 3,319 1,381 § tº ſº * * * * 5,222 3,319 1,505
Burnley 3,329 52,698 || 10,136 5,560 | 71,779 3,329 || 76,709
Chatburn . 1,523 565 tº dº tº sº e º 2,234 1,523 620
Chipping . 4,789 764 ſº tº gº gº tº º 14 5,567 4,789 610
Church . † 1,029 9,709 2,000 50 5 13,452 1,029 20,060
Clayton-le-Dale. 1,959 59 tº a tº . . . gº tº 2,018 1,959 377
Clayton-le-Moors 2, 193 9,621 * * g. 20 | 12,184 2,193 || 13,997
Cliviger & 4,708 2,046 7,870 sº s 5 140 14,950 4,708 3,660
Colne 5,843 || 13,350 * : * * 800 704 || 20,817 5,843 || 13,671
Cuerdale 1,075 8 * 15 1,098 1,075
Darwen, Lower . 4,074 6,102 sº e g & tº gº 66 10,322 4,074 6,745
Darwen, Over . 5,891 26,010 6,082 353 712 || 39,356 5,891 || 44,134
Deadwin Clough 5,510 || 27,916 tº a º 1,000 94 | 35,575 5,510 || 37,447
Dilworth . g 1,875 1,094 ë e & 7. 3,586 1,875 860
Dinkley 612 40 * 652 612 I 30
Downham . 1,913 298 2,211 1,913 160
Dutton 1,580 136 tº e e * g e 1,749 1,580 170
Eccleshill . . 1,081 322 2.13 30 1,667 1,081 500
Foulridge . * 3,367 1,056 & e º 5 4,498 3,367 1,483
Goldshaw Boot 1,648 825 tº & © tº e tº 2,473 1,648 950
Habergham Eaves 6,267 || 41,318 7,668 214 || 55,673 6,267 61,535
Hapton 2,542 1,272 4,520 e g tº § º e 8,634 2,542 1,750
Harwood, Great 3,364 5,982 & g e 75 15 9,521 3,364 8,940
Harwood, Little 1,694 300 & e g : s tº gº 1,994 1,694 200
Haslingden 7,033 | 16,776 575 88 || 25,479 7,033 27,064
Heyhouses 333 127 tº gº º tº ſº tº 460 333
Higham Booth . 1,870 714 * - º 20 2,604 1,870 1,000
Higher Booths . 5,056 9,529 6,189 101 21,097 5,056 21,096
Huncoat . t 1,265 934 tº º ſº 87 2,336 1,265 1,355
Ightenhill Park 1,111 50 1,957 * * * 3,188 1,111
Livesey e 3,281 8,833 I6 15 12,145 3,281 || 14,749
Lower Booths 3,331 8,671 $ g tº a tº e 12,102 3,331 12,936
Marsden 6,808 8,550 | 11,068 9]. 27,821 6,808 || 14,637
Mearley 930 6 s tº º tº tº 936 930
Mellor . ge e 2,914 1,166 4,080 . 2,914 1,377
Mitton, Henthorne, and
Coldcoates 865 64 41 970 865
Musbury . . 1,759 | 1,284 * a º 3,090 1,759 | 1,440
Old Laund Booth 615 254 869 615 220
Osbaldeston 1,130 118 * * * $ 8 º' 1,248 1,130 I50
Oswaldtwisle 7,020 | 15,333 4,237 120 27,027 7,020 22,202
Padiham 2,610 | 12,590 3,914 tº $ tº 19,472 2,610 | 12,733
|Pendleton . . 2,503 1,997 * * * 4,585 2,503 || 3,604
| Pleasington 2,667 592 3,414 2,667 130
Ramsgreave 1,220 133 * g ∈ 1,353 1,220
Read tº tº 1,674 1,030 * * * 278 2,982 1,674 1,480.
Reedley Hallows 1,828 480 3,023 & tº e is 5,331 1,828 800
Ribchester 2,394 949 & M tº * II 3,459 2,394 300
Rishton e 3,594 948 1,128 e 143 6,044 3,594 1,230
Rough Lee Booth 1,874 413 * * * $ e gº tº 2,287 1,874
Salesbury . 1,227 147 tº * c = 1,374 1,227 240
Samlesbury 5,263 | 1,595 e 13 6,951 5,263 | 1,520
Simonstone sº ſº 1,207 57 e * * 1,264 1,207
Thornley-cum-Wheatley | 2,414 160 e 2,650 2,414 60
Tockholes g tº 2,152 394 .. 2,546 2, 152 270
Trawden g 4,316 || 2,366 5 6,687 4,316 | 1,230
Twiston . e 769 93 & * & ſº 872 769
Walton-le-Dale . 8,709 || 13,451 125 22,357 8,709 17,888
Whalley 2,727 1,090 tº gº º 4,107 2,727 2,170
Wilpshire . 842 204 1,046 842
Wiswell 1,883 714 ſº a ſº 2,597 1,883 1,062
Witton 1,150 5,560 194 6,904 1,150 4,762
Worsthorne 1,547 260 12 2,054 || 1,547 160
Worston . e e 1,070 64 e 1,134 1,070 25
Yate and Pickup Bank 1,198 658 1,856 1,198 I80
212,966 534,637 80,430 12,158 24,138 875,315 212,966 791,654
|
Qſìje #istorg of 3Lancašijire—flutenba. 637

Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of Total Gross Gross
the following heads:— Annual Annual Net
Value of Walue of Amount
Property Property of Profits
PARISHES OR PLACES. Other Assessed Assessed | Charged
Lands. | Messuages. | Mines. Canals. Railways. * Prº sº S #. s: €
ProfitS. (A). (B). (D).
BOLTON. £ £ £ :6 :6 f 36 f :6 £
Anlezargh. 746 44 • * * * * * * e e := tº $ as tº sº º 946 746 220
Aspull . . 3,510 | 3,580 19,863 tº º 27,184 . 3,510 2,288
Blackrod . 3,557 2,996 7,711 * g tº tº º º 14,264 3,557 2, 184
Bolton, Great 1,394 | 124,162 200 7,178 4,136 | 137,070 1,394 264,060
Bolton, Tittle 2,284 || 73,313 600 ſº a º 2,538 78,877 2,284 || 102,152
Bradshaw . 1,320 2,262 150 * & 12 3,754 1,320 4,005
Breightmet 1,941 3,132 1,504 tº gº tº º e & e e Q 6,627 1,941 5,741
Bury *º 6,571 77,228 1,040 171,785 543 5,990 263,333 6,571 148,594
Edgeworth 2,754 1,148 e is E. e ºf & & º e II. 4,378 2,754 460
Elton 5,753 26,695 1,680 1,702 142 36,105 5,753 36,508
Entwisle 1,287 593 349 & © 2 & gº º 2,429 | 1,287 3,480
Farnworth 2,364 20,162 3,249 839 20 26,684 2,364 24,085
Halliwell . 3,925 | 19,610 320 e e ſº s 23,939 3,925 31,466
Harwood . 2,521 1,835 800 e & e e ‘g ſº 5,556 2,521 960
Heap 5,726 || 48,351 200 1,200 830 56,545 5,726 71,068
| Heaton 2,455 1,646 109 f & se 82 4,542 2,455 300
Horwich tº 4,282 | 11,306 170 s & & 40 | 15,880 4,282 | 20,325
Hulton, Little . 3,347 3,468 11,084 20 18,005 3,347 1,755
Hulton, Middle. 2,334 356 3,591 25 6,446 2,334
Hulton, Over 2,120 250 6,775 tº º 9,145 2,120 19]
Kersley 1,595 9,553 17,655 tº w g 28,809 1,595 16,691
Lever, Darcy 934 3,636 4,400 ū5 9,025 934 6,678
Lever, Little 1,424 8, 152 12,500 229 22,305 1,424 11,366
Longworth 1,005 I2 tº e Q 128 1,145 1,005 100
| Lostock 1,639 507 tº º ſº * e # 2,146 1,639 250
Quarlton . 823 781 472 tº ſº e & ºr e 2,076 823 1,140
Radcliffe . 3,915 21,202 8,940 1,439 184 35,800 3,915 28,467
Rivington 1,882 251 tº gº tº tº e tº * g & 2,153 1,882 442
Rumford . 2,472 3,772 1,000 260 7,504 2,472 3,510
Sharples . g º 2,701 || 11,684 302 s g & 10 14,697 2,701 17,701
Tonge-with-Haulgh . 2,357 7,885 800 375 tº c <! 11,421 2,357 11,243
Tottington, Higher End 4,170 8,644 24 * * * 53 13,330 4,170 14,411
Tottington, Lower En 6,829 27,235 200 64 || 34,454 6,829 || 41,177
Turton . g § 3,936 9,132 40 * * * 20 13,678 3,936 20,969
Walmersley 8,048 || 11,383 400 163 129 20,417 8,048 15,931
Westhoughton . 6,959 6,661 2,790 tº º e 159 16,679 6,959 9,277
110,880 552,627 | 108,918 172,160 | 13,064 15,137 || 977,348 || 110,880 919, 195
CLITHEROE BOROUGH.
Clitheroe . gº 4,846 14,229 200 353 20,462 4,846 19,730
LANCASTER BOROUGH.
Lancaster . w 3,258 38,044 20,072 232,691 1,376 1,310 || 296,803 3,258 80,665
LEYLAND.
Adlington 1,953 2,326 30 4,324 1,953 4,761
Alıderton . 1,500 614 107 2,241 1,500 25
Bispham 1,691 49 tº gº tº 1,740 1,691 180
Bretherton 4,148 337 tº g ſº 4,485 4,148 234
Brindle . e 4,986 1,285 * @ & II.0 6,401 4,986 1,850
Charnock-Richard 3,297 256 2,700 * * * & tº 6,253 3,297 1,150
Chorley * } 6,054 || 35,805 w sº ºn 1,220 43,100 6,054 44,868
Clayton-le-Woods 2,708 836 tº g g & a tº 3,544 2,708 1,880
Coppull 3,498 704 1,950 6, 152 3,498 592
Croston 4,512 1,712 e ºf e 6,224 4,512 1,174
Cuerden 1,515 1,807 tº tº º 3,322 1,515 2,645
Duxbury . 1,654 876 1,064 3,594 1,654 600
Eccleston . 3,733 1,158 * * > 4,891 3,733 1,906
Euxton 4,521 1,970 tº e ge 6,491 4,521 1,672
Farrington 3, 198 3,921 55 7,174 3,198 || 11,005
Heapey . & 1,584 683 & s ºf tº gº tº 2,267 1,584 2,322
Heath-Charnock 2,126 1,142 450 206 4,204 2,126 400
Hesketh with Becconsa 2,386 541 & g º 4 s is " 2,927 2,386 356
Heskin . * º 1,786 127 830 tº e E 2,753 1,786 50
Hoghton . * 3,440 1,276 is a gº I2 4,928 3,440 1,705
Howick 1,053 157 & 1,210 1,053
Hutton 3,508 269 3 3,780 3,508 364
Leyland 8,324 5,320 14 13,658 8,324 5,055
Little Hoole 1,853 595 85 2,533 1,853 1,003



638
Qſìje 3%istorg of £ancašijire—ºttentia.


Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of Total Gross Gross
the following heads:— Annual Annual Net,
}..., | }..., | #.
- POT)8]
PARISHES OR PLACES. Other Aj j Charged
Lands. MeSSuages. | Mines. Canals. Railways. #. Fººty sº siń. sºi,
- ProfitS. (A). (B). (D).
LEYLAND–Comtd. f f f :6 f £ £ f f :6
Longton 5,716 | 1,053 • * * & g º • e * 15 6,784 5,716 1,788
Mawdsley . 4,749 615 * - e. 5,364 4,749 105
Much Hoole 2,603 908 3,511 2,603 333
Parbold 1,814 797 * - © 3,031 1,814 1,190
Penwortham 4,841 2,268 82 7,221 4,841 870
Rufford 5,379 806 & © tº * * * • * * 6,185 5,379 598
Shevington . . 2,819 ' 971 3,500 330 122 7,742 2,819 930
Standish with Langtree 5,917 3,116 || 6,700 - - - 55 15,778 5,917 5,468
Tarleton e º 7,359 692 gº tº e 30 8,081 7,359 692
|Ulmes Walton . 3,622 152 e - © - * 3,774 3,622
Welsh Whittle . 984 31 900 - e. g. 1,915 984
Wheelton Q 2,349 1,769 - 15 4,309 2,349 2,005
Whittle-le-Woods 2,894 3,566 36 6,576 2,894 1,516
Withnell . 3,514 3,205 - - 6,819 3,514 5,230
Worthington 1,200 396 1,606 1,200 118
Wrightington 6,380 1,002. 7,423 6,380 980
137,168 85,113 | 18,094 330 | 1,220 977 || 244,325 | 137,168 107,620
LIVERPOOL. •. -
Liverpool 1,299,438 74,215 52,312 1,425,965 5,149,490
LONSDALE, NORTH. -
Above-town º e 4,503 768 28,260 208 10 47,427 4,503 394
Aldingham, Lower 3,393 © tº e - - - * - e. $ 3,393 3,393 240
Aldingham, Upper 2,335 1,007 3,427 2,335 285
| Allithwaite, Lower 4,174 968 5,142 4,174 485
Allithwaite, Upper 2,591 532 3,123 2,591 I80
Bardsea . º 1,258 588 1,846 1,258 305
Blawith . e 950 132 1,082 950 5
Broughton, East 2,960 1,372 4,332 2,960 303
Broughton, West 5,613 1,064 6,677 5,613 1,776
Cartmell Fell . 3,048 66 3,114 3,048 I90
Claife g 2,992 696 3,688 2,992 923
Colton, East 2,033 397 - - - 2,439 2,033 410
Colton, West 1,176 342 • * * 23 1,541 1,176 1,570
Coniston, Church 1,564 334 4,875 * - 4 8,631 1,564 1,270
Coniston, Monk 2,291 888 & © tº 30 3,267 2,291 850
Dalton 1,955 2,760 2,025 I0 10,662 1,955 5,785
Dunnerdale 2,132 35 * - - - e. 2,208 2,132
Egton . 1,735 710 2,445 1,735 1,220
Haverthwaite 4,250 484 ... - - - 4,834 4,250 1,461
Hawcoat . 4,230 3,187 33,627 95 41,174 4,230 5,021
Hawkshead 2,423 1,025 - - - --- e. 3,453 2,423 1,035
Holker, Lower . 3,021 1,509 70 4,600 3,021 1,186
Holker, Upper . 3,832 1,279 550 5,726 3,832 15,428
| Kirkby Ireleth . 4,620 398 30 11,844 4,620 630
Leece e 1,677 tº g s - © 1,677 1,677
Lowick 1,952 415 2,382 1,952 340
Mansriggs 709 º e - - - a 709 709
Newland . 2,421 500 70 3,057 2,421 1,758
Nibthwaite I,257 72 - - - 1,329 1,257 138
Osmotherley 2,013 305 tº e - 2,318 2,013 160
Pennington 3,334 452 7,500 . 18,436 3,334 238
Satterthwaite 2,536 275 tº - - 2,811 2,536 230
Staveley º 3,329 292 3,621 3,329 440
Subberthwaite . 6.79 75 764 679
TOrver 1,100 80 tº e = • * a • * * - - - 1,180 1,100 7
Ulverston . e 5,496 20,716 • * * 536 35 327 395 27,611 5,496 26,733
Urswick, Little 2,460 510 400 - a - e a º - - - 22 4,797 2,460 19
Urswick, Much 1,768 239 tº - tº ... 2,007 | 1,768 215
Walney 2,647 I27 • * * 11 2,785 2,647
Yarlside 5,727 744 2,000 * - º 9,871 5,727 570
108,184 4,343 45,060 536 || 33,870 327 | 1,316 271,430 108,184 71,800

(The #istorg of £antasiſire—3bbenna.
639

Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of Total Gross Gross
the following heads:— Annual Annual Net
Value of Value of Amount
- Property | Property of Profits
PARISHES OR PLACES. Other | Assessed | Assessed Charged
Lands | Messuages. | Mines. canals. Railways. º |*| sºi, sº, sº,
Profits. (A). (B). (D).
LONSDALE, SOUTH OF f £ £ £ f 36 f £ f :6
THE SANDS.
Aldcliffe . . . 1,348 77 1,425 | 1,348
Arkholme with Cawood 2,977 447 3,424 2,977 11
Ashton with Stodday 2,171 200 e e & 2,387 2,171 100
Bolton-le-Sands 3,102 1,105 13 4,220 3,102 340
Borwick tº 1,564 51 e tº 1,765 1,564 70
Bulk & ë tº 1,802 738 gº tº º 2,590 1,802 4,628
Burrow with Burrow 2,585 146 6 2,737 2,585
| Cantsfield. 1,610 176 * 1,786 1,610
Carnforth . 2,037 232 & e # 2,269 2,037 200
,Caton - 4,925 1,724 34 6,683 4,925 1,041
Claughton 1,452 41 tº a º 1,493 1,452
Cockerham 7,923 |46 9 8,078 7,923 200
Dalton . 1,762 169 e tº º 1,931 1,762
Ellel, North 3,305 1,938 a º is 5,243 3,305 512
Ellel, South 3,341 544 tº º º 3,895 3,341 212
Farleton 1,212 44 s & sº 1,256 1,212
Gressingham 2,083 141 & is ſº 2,224 2,083 30
Halton . & ſº 4,410 1,106 4 5,520 4,410 | 494
Heaton with Oxcliffe 2,571 38 * * * 2,609 2,571
Heysham . e 3,125 675 3 3,803 3,125 100
Hornby 3,767 299 • * 4,066 3,767 1,120
Ireby e e 1,036 6 * - 1,042 1,036
Kellet, Nether . 2,523 136 e e 2,659 || 2,523 50
Kellet, Over 3,470 395 tº e tº 3,886 3,470 49
Leck . . . . . 2,251 231 tº e º 2,482 2,251 13]
Melling with Wreaton 1,337 276 5 1,618 1,337
Middleton g e 1,715 86 tº gº 1,801 | 1,715
Overton . * tº 1,682 360 2,042 1,682
Poulton, Bare, and Tor-
risholme 3,972 3,979 7,951 3,972 2,525
Priest Hutton 1,457 171 1,628 1,457 215
Quernmoor 5,144 467 • . . . 5,611 5,144 203
Roeburndale 2,134 71 45 2,310 2,134
Scotforth . 4,581 1,506 tº gº tº 6,117 4,581 1,022
Silverdale . 1,003 259 * * 1,262 1,003
Skerton . . 3,226 2,863 tº º º 6,179 || 3,226 830
Slyne with Hest 2,201 534 2 2,737 2,201 78
Tatham e 5,328 I88 3 5,519 5,328 245
Thurnham 2,851 494 * * * 3,345 2,851 | 1,660
Tunstall § º 1,466 84 & g 1,550 1,466 150
Warton with Lindeth 2,948 806 3,754 2,948 303
Wennington tº 1,081 219 1,300 1,081
Whittington 5,104 285 & s tº 5,389 5,104
Wray with Botton 3,369 663 40 4,072 3,369 b68
Wyresdale, Higher 2,274 165 s tº 2,439 2,274
Wyresdale, Lower 2,250 39 tº a tº 2,289 2,250
Yealand Conyers 1,847 765 43 2,655 1,847 439
Yealand Redmayne 1,972 278 . . . 2,250 1,972
127,294 25,363 40 167 || 153,291 | 127,294 | 17,526
MANCEESTER. .
Ardwick 23 57,847 25 57,895 23 || 33,417
Beswick e is ſº 2,280 gº & º * * * 2,280 * † tº 900
Bradford . 178 8,558 800 9,536 178 || 10,347
Burnage . gº tº 1,372 2,369 a sº e 3,741 1,372
Chorlton-cum-Hardy. 3,261 1,667 4,928 3,261 302
Chorlton-on-Medlock 126 || 178,624 s & º 178,750 126 194,445
Denton . . . 2,514 4,483 2,000 8,997 2,514 6,603
Didsbury . 4,564 8,520 * = & 13,116 4,564 1,344
Droylsden 2,959 21,142 1,020 g gº tº 25,121 2,959 21,587
Failsworth 2,358 13,244 e a e 450 • * º 16,052 2,358 13,511
Flixton 5,123 1,743 * & & tº 100 6,966 5,123 1,050
Gorton 2,557 | 20,141 332 * e tº 23,030 2,557 24,845
Harpurhey 424 3,052 3- tº g e g $. 3,476 424 . 3,078
Haughton 1,670 6,669 2,489 10,848 1,670 10,086
Heaton Norris . 4,130 || 48,620 * e. g. & e sº 52,750 4,130 42,279
Hulme . 3,125 | 159,872 77,916 tº º & 240,913 3,125 96,555
Levenshulme 1,574 5,793 tº ſº tº 900 8,267 1,574 1,760


640
(Iſiſt fligforg of 3|ancašljirº–ºbbemba.


PARISHES OR PLACES.
MANCHESTER—Contó.
Manchester -
MOSS Side .
Newton
Openshaw.
Reddish
Rusholme .
Stretford .
Urmston
Withington
MIDDLETON.
Ashton Town
Audenshaw
Ainsworth
Ashworth . -
Birtle-cum-Bamford .
Blatchinworth and
Calderbrook e
Butterworth, Freehold
side . e º
Butterworth, Lordship
side . - -
Chadderton
Crompton • º
Castleton, further side
Castleton, nearer side
Hartshead
Hopwood .
Knott Lanes
Great Lever
Middleton -
Oldham, above Town
Oldham, below Town
Pilsworth . .
Royton . tº e
Spotland, nearer side
Spotland, further side
Thornham & º
Todmorden and Wals-
den . º º
Wardleworth º
Wuerdle and Wardle
Whitworth and Brand-
wood . e
ORMSKIRK.
Aintree
Altcar
Aughton .
Bickerstaffe
Birkdale
Burscough
Downholland
Formby
Great Crosby
Halsall .
Ince Blundell
Lathom Side
Lathom, West .
Litherland
Little Crosby
Lunt
Lydiate
|Maghull
Melling
Netherton
Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of Total GroSS | Gross
the following heads:– Annual Annual Net,
Value of Walue of Amount
Property Property of Profits
o, rº, A." | * | *
Lands. | Messuages. | Mines. Canals. Railways. wº ; y Schedule Schedule | Schedule
ProfitS. (A). (B). (D).
£ £ f # £ f £ f £ f
939,696 989,768 60,000 55,917 | 2,060,181 ... 3,715,272
882 19,157 | * * * e s - - - - 20,039 882 3,260
2,991 32,764 s 35,755 2,991 27,924
633 20,226 7 20,866 633 11,330
3,029 5,415 - 8,444 3,029 5,244
2,260 30,235 * * * 32,495 2,260 5,056
9, 186 33,252 500 42,938 9, 186 7,568
3,329 1,182 e is º 4,511 3,329 380
5,728 11,019 16,747 5,728 1,273
63,996 | 1,637,570 6,309 || 77,916 |989,768 || 61,289 56,942 2,908,642 63,996 || 4,239,416
2,267 105,354 2,879 2,500 | 703 113,703 2,267 100,665
5,042 15,695 • * * 57 20 20,814 5,042 7,761
2,297 3,098 1,652 tº º tº 7,047 2,297 2,813
1,093 50 1,000 2,143 1,093 16
2,731 4,878 300 7,909 2,731 4,644
3,599 9,515 1,020 45 14,551 3,599 8,375
4,741 5,365 6,155 16,261 4,741 11,843
3,760 6,685 200 * * * 10,645 3,760 10,546
6,319 16,111 6,967 360 • * s 29,757 6,319 12,480
5,063 13,650 | 2,779 | ... 350 70 22,972 5,063 16,401
3,858 53,469 ... 24,424 is a tº tº º tº 81,751 3,858 65,824
3,746 14,005 75 c. * * • . . . 2,500 20,326 3,746 9,743
6,058 48,345 5,450 76 - - - 60,022 6,058 55,065
3,949 4,673 2,200 tº e º 10,822 3,949 3,871
4,038 I5,540 | 19,000 38,578 4,038 12,767
2,511 3,913 3,750 * * * 10,174 2,511, 3,880
3,536 18,667 1,800 * @ 4 80 24,083 3,536 31,776
4,472 81,611 8,960 840 113 95,996 4,472 68,624
2,764 100,011 | 16,715 13,487 842 134,054 2,764 127,549
2,220 1,630 400 e s e 100 4,350 2,220 1,359
2,460 17,208 628 220 50 20,566 2,460 10,854
1,891 27,534 3,050 * * * 2,524 34,999 1,891 32,936
7,224 18,116 5,584 - - - - - - 31,380 7,224 23,829
3,084 3,600 1,253 15 66 8,018 3,084 2,626
2,719 25,603 || 2,252 30,677 2,719 27,879
1,250 55,251 1,060 559 3,804 61,924 1,250 115,969
4,767 18,355 3,036 * * * • * * 26,308 4,767 24,713
6,817 33,082 9,465 93 I93 51,695 6,817 23,234
104,276 721,014 || 107,630 || 24,424 18,557 | 11,110 991,525 | 104,276 818,042
2,249 1,366 3,615 2,249 930
5,214 774 5,988 5,214 295
11,187 2,617 6 * g. - - - 13,804 || 11,187 1,865
8,772 586 1,320 55 10,733 8,772 580
1,436 3,516 * - * - © 4,952 1,436 550
10,363 1,752 12,115 10,363 1,623
5,337 383 5,720 5,337 225
6,174 1,357 7,531 6,174 1,391
4,441 18,054 22,495 4,441 4,899
10,046 615 10,661 10,046 . 360
4,624 398 5,022 4,624 535
7,865 1,325 * * * - - - 9, 190 7,865 2,290
9,764 1,247 274 50 11,355 9,764 769
2,452 17,309 - - - 200 19,961 2,452 6,081
4,042 148 - - e. 4,190 4,042 120
1,059 141 1,200 1,059
5,341 677 6,018 5,341 137
6,169 2,270 8,439 6,169 1,231
5,063 267 5,430 5,063 310
2,536 I25 2,661 2,536 350

Qſìje ??igturn of 3 antaghire—ºbbemba, 641

Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of Total Gross Gross
the following heads:— Annual Annual Net,
A. # }. º: #.
TOTO6
PARISHES OR PLACES. - Other Å; Å; %;
Lands. Messuages. | Mines. Canals. Railways. wº. Pºw sº sºi, sº
ProfitS. (A.) (B.) (D.)
ORMSKIRK–Continued. £ f f £ £ £ f #3 £ f
North Meols g 12,138 36,028 * * * • * e g º s sº º 60 48,226 12,138 20,851
Ormskirk . tº 1,583 11,661 4 & 8 323 30 13,597 I, 583 18,006
Orrell and Ford 2,178 575 * g e 2,753 2,178 110
Scarisbrick 12,725 1,004 g a sº 13,752 | 12,725 835
Sefton 2,989 362 140 3,491 2,989 550
Simonswood 2,690 I02 * , , * * * 2,792 2,690
Skelmersdale 3,303 901 1,000 30 5,253 3,303 733
Thornton . 2,213 188 & & B • * 2,401 2,213
153,953 105,748 2,594 323 565 263,345 | 153,953 65,626
PRESCOT, FIRST. * .
Everton 450 | 161,388 178 162,758 450 81,154
Kirkdale . e 325 61,309 2,040 63,674 325 56,423
Toxteth Park, D. 1 4,324 | 129,999 1,427 | 135,750 4,324 94,701
Toxteth Park, D. 2 . 217 | 101,265 1,300 102,782 217 98,943
West Derby, Municipal 833 113,541 217 | 114,591 833 64,276
6,149 567,502 5,162 579,555 6, 149 395,497
PRESCOT, SECOND.
Allerton . • *. 4,459 3,902 8,361 4,459
|Bold • . • 7,822 329 . . . 8,151 7,822 350
Bootle-cum-Linacre . 2,542 21,744 542 25,158 2,542 12,124
Childwall . 3,040 158 § º º 3, 198 || 3,040 330
Cronton * 2,132 432 2,599 2,132 635
Croxteth Park . 1,781 121 1,902 1,781 I00
Ditton º 3,978 841 4 * * tº gº tº * * * * 4,819 3,978 352
Eccleston . 7,341 23,663 4,206 466 528. 36,478 7,341 19,880
Fazackerley 4,781 698 * * * ſº º º º, º º 5,479 4,781
Garston 3,590 27,753 300 31,643 3,590 11, 112
Hale & 2,624 1,213 10 3,847 2,624 1,128
Halewood . 5,490 1,760 © & º 7,250 5,490 1,486
Huyton 3,846 6,378 tº e : « 10,593 3,846 4,520
Rirkby 5,717 1,413 # tº º 291 7,421 5,717 1,171
Knowsley . g 8,527 2,325 | 1,367 # * º 12,549 8,527 3,813
Little Woolton . 3,985 4,733 tº º º ſº tº o 8,718 3,985 945
Much Woolton . 2,654 11,547 * * * tº e tº & s 9 35 14,636 2,654 8,869
Parr tº 2,384 11,585 20,292 29 68 850 35,208 2,384 14,842
Prescot 576 13,088 1,500 * = & 60 tº gº º 15,224 576 22,615
Rainhill 3,573 5,251 - - - • * > & © tº 8,959 3,573 4,274
Rainford 6,521 2,742 3,280 80 12,623 6,521 4,760
Roby 2,390 2,787 tº e = * * * tº º º & e º tº e tº 5,177 2,390 375
Sutton 6, 186 23,964 || 9,147 170 2,640 1,601 438 44,146 6, 186 62,043
Speke 4,694 471 tº º º & E tº tº tº wº ſº tº me e tº º 5,165 4,694 560
Tarbock . & 3,764 859 tº º is 4,623 3,764 1,000
Walton-on-the-Hill 6,140 14,295 e & 35 20,570 6,140 5,214
Whiston 4,359 1,992 4,381 tº º ſº 10,867 4,359 1,481
Wavertree tº 4,833 31,144 & E & 700 36,743 4,833 24,761
West Derby, Rural 15,073 67,908 gº e $ 806 83,899 || 15,383 47,315
Widmes . & 6,388 13,545 & & & e º º 40 2,168 22,158 6,388 22,944
Windle 4,988 29,845 2,950 45,449 400 2,578 87,101 4,988 93,792
146,178 || 328,486 |47,123 199 |48,089 2,635 9,361 585,265 146,488 372,791
PRESTON.
Preston 2,652 202,950 87,294 || 9,500 | 11,737 || 314,390 2,652 || 317,525
SALFORD.
Alkrington 1,671 286 & ſº tº 1,957 1,671
Barton, Eccles . 6,617 24,101 53 30,771 6,617 29,885
Barton, Irlam 4,419 1,785 © tº tº 6,204 4,419 952
Barton, South . 6,172 4,113 4 10,289 6,172 3,498
Blackley 4,186 || 6,769 4. tº º 10,955 4, 186 3,903
Broughton 2,911 62,660 859 66,430 2,911 31,922
Cheetham . 1,015 76,651 * * * 251 77,917 1,015 59,149
Clifton . 1,889 1,994 || 6,623 10 10,516 1,889 3,116
Crumpsall. 1,398 18,931 tº e ſº e & g 20,329 1,398 9,575
Heaton, Great . 1,503 1,005 2,508 1,503 745
Heaton, Little . 1,048 867 1,915 1,048 170

4 N
642 QThe #istorg of £ancashire—fluttmba.
Gross Annual Value of Property Assessed under Schedule (A), under each of Total Gross Gross
the following heads:— Annual Annual Net,
A. º: *. º º .
TODel’ * * *** ****
PARISHES OR PLACES. ', Other j Å; º
. Lands. | Messuages. | Mines. Canals. Railways. * Pºw sº sº sº
ProfitS. (A). (B). (D.)
SALFORD–Continued. :6 f f £ £ f £ f £ f
Moston . • s 2,636 1,899 700 tº º żº ... * * * tº gº & as a tº 5,235 2,636 410
Pendlebury s tº 2,219 11,425 3,795 … * * g. & © tº e = s. 17,439 2,219 18,327
Pendleton . g & 5,365 72, 193 2, 186 & & 8 * = & s & gº 2,352 85,080 5,365 78,196
Pilkington e e 9,349 28,971 2,837 * * = * * * & º º 580 41,765 9,349 28,695
Prestwich . & * 4,545 I7,050 * * * º I 30 21,725 4,545 9,495
Salford, No. 1 . & 1,229 87,838 * is ſº * c 3 • * > . tº e e 2,962 92,029 1,229 95,840
Salford, No. 2 . e I2 92,124 tº gº º * * * * - e. 13,096 2,146 107,378 12 81,200
Tonge . te tº 642 8,677 300 tº º is & # e. 1,116 * * g. 10,774 642 6,653
Worsley . * tº 11,639 19,405 5,200 tº º tº * * * 48 & © tº: 36,315 I1,639 16,363
70,465 538,744 21,641 g a e * * s 14,260 9,347 || 657,531 || 70,465 478,094
WARRINGTON. -
Abram . gº º 3,068 1,622 4,125 | . ... * * * * * * 110 8,925 3,068 1,446
Ashton . e $ 9,311 5,821 || 13,065 * * * # * g. 100 67 28,364 9,311 6,735
Astley * * , 3,654 3,036 5,000 tº e º tº e & & a tº 277 11,967 3,654 2,860
Atherton . º ſº 4,364 10,011 8,920 * * : * e s tº 136 I 81 23,638 4,364 12,269
Bedford . g tº 3,970 10,131 3,542 e e s tº e vº tº a tº 329 18,201 3,970 39,331
Billinge, Chapel End. 2,107 1,536 || 7,580 tº e º tº e & * * * I0 11,309 2,107 1,750
Billinge, Higher End. 2,165 810 2,000 tº e º ' tº º º * * * * * * 5,616 2,165 150
Burtonwood . sº 5,864 681 tº gº º e a º e = * e e ge tº e is 6,545 5,864 200
Cuerdley . e º 2,358 54 * * * s e 9 g tº 6 * * * * * * 2,412 2,358 350
Culcheth . º º 7,402 2,615 tº º & 8 * s ... e g e 282 10,339 7,402 6,195
Dalton . & & 3,286 151 100 & e & tº s e # - 3 50 3,747 3,286 150
Golborne . g e 2,803 2,842 1,038 tº a e * g e tº gº º & a tº 6,683 2,803 6,438
Great Sankey . g 3,309 533 tº º ſº s is º s sº º tº º º tº s & 3,842 3,309 735
Haigh * & g 2,772 836 8,687 50 * + & tº e e 30 13,086 2,772 7,144
Haydock . g & 3,639 2,799 || 7,828 & e tº tº ºr e * * * e & tº 14,266 3,639 2,761
Hindley . g º 4,808 13,288 14,130 e e tº tº 4 - * G - 324 32,550 4,808. 15,242
Houghton. .e. g 1,480 265 * - tº tº e & * , e. * g º * g & 1,745 1,480 106
Ince . e * * 3,158 8,973 || 56,920 30 * e a * @ tº 748 69,829 3,158 12,241
Kenyon . ſº tº 2,130 289 tº º ºr • * > . * * * * < a. tº g º . 2,419 2,130 70
Lowton . * & 3,946 2,180 * : * e & e * * * tº e g 22 6,148 3,946 1,050
Newton , & e 4,948 10,917 | . ... is a s tº º tº tº e g 70 17,061 4,948 16,795
Orrell e .* & 2,995 2,664 260 tº gº gº & a tº & 6 º' 97 6,016 2,995 1,927
Pemberton g g 4,725 7,074 | 19,370 * * * & © e * - tº I50 31,319 4,725 3,790
Penketh . e º 2,135 982 - tº º . . . . 3 + tº & © tº sº tº º 3,117 2,135 2,878
Pennington g * 3,002 10,579 º tº º tº º & * * * tº 3 tº 78 13,659 3,002 15,151
Poulton . † & 3,498 57.1 tº tº & is e g ... . . . 18 4,087 3,498 1,287
Rixton . º & 3,904 394 & © sy * e & & © a * * * e v e 4,298 3,904 470
Southworth e e 3,475 780 tº $ tº & e & # tº º tº a tº * * * 4,255 3,475 II.0
Tyldesley . * * 4,575 11,642 5,358 • * * * * * 45 $º gº º 21,620 4,575 23,712
Upholland e & 8,345 2,646 5,500 * * * tº a wº 15 406 16,912 8,345 2,653
Westleigh . g g 3,242 6,863 5,020 ... I . . tº a tº 262 15,387 3,242. 7,655
Winstanley e g 2,688 605 || 3,600 e s º & e ºa * - tº 20 6,913 2,688 950
WinWick . sº e 3,003 576 4 tº & e ‘º e & e º & & 8 * & & 3,579 3,003 1,123
Woolston . º & 2,704 246 * * tº * * * * & & * * * tº g tº 2,950 2,704 280
Warrington & & 6,318 55,485 * * * 57 164 2,096 2,317 67,188 6,318 144,985
135,151 180,497 172,043 137 164 2,392 5,848 499,992 || 135,151 340,989
WIGAN. -
Wigan Borough. * 4,024 76,412 23,538 # * * * * * 1,200 1,840 107,134 4,024 155,404
ToTAL OF LANGASHIRE 1,604,276 7,019,978 || 633,420 | 197,499 |1,564,366 191,460 | 156,727 | 11,453,851 | 1,604,586 14,410,307
COUNTY MAGISTRATES.
The following List of Magistrates on the Commission of the Peace for the County Palatine of Lancaster
is compiled from the Official List issued by Messrs. Birchall, Wilson, and Hulton, Deputy Clerks of the Peace.
It has been corrected so as to represent the state of the Commission in March 1868; and, for more
convenient reference, the names—which are given in the Official List in the Order of seniority, according to
the date of the original qualification—are here arranged in alphabetical Order under each Hundred —
(ſiſt £ištúrg of 3Lancašijire——ºbbemba.
643
LONSDALE HUNDRED.
Ainslie, Montague, esq., Grizedale, Hawkshead. July 2, 1838. .
Ainslie, Montague Mordaunt, esq., 59A Davies Street, Berkeley
Square, London, W. January 4, 1847.
Ainsworth, Thomas, esq., Newton-in-Cartmel. February 26, 1847.
Archibald, Charles Dickson, esq., Rusland Hall, Milnthorp, June
29, 1836.
Askew, Henry William, esq., Conishead Priory, Ulverston.
Ber 31, 1855.
Baldwin, William John Atkinson, esq., Dalton-in-Furness. February
19, 1868.
Barker, john, esq., Broughton Lodge, Newton-in-Cartmel. May 22,
1862
Decem-
Beck, william Alcock, esq., Esthwaite Lodge, Hawkshead. April
4, 1859.
Bent, 'Baldwin Harry, esq., Stockton House, Tenbury, Worcester-
shire. January 5, 1857.
Bolden, William Bolden, esq., Hyning, Lancaster.
Bolden, Samuel Edward, esq., Springfield Hall, Lancaster.
I855.
Bowman, Thomas, esq., Roger-Ground, Hawkshead. Dec. 31, 1849.
Bradley, Robert Greene, esq., Slyne House, Lancaster. October
19, 1835.
Brogden, Alexander, esq., Ulverston. June 27, 1864.
Bryans, James, esq., Bellfield, Bowness, near Windermere. January
5, 1846.
Burrell, John Stamp, esq., Park Field, Lancaster. Oct. 18, 1858.
Cavendish, Frederick Charles, esq., M.P. (styled Lord Frederick
Cavendish), Holker Hall, Newton-in-Cartmel. Feb. 19, 1868.
Chippendall, John, esq., Lancaster. October 18, 1851.
Clarke, James, esq., Summerhill, Penny Bridge, Ulverston.
8, 1844.
Dawson, Edward, esq., Aldcliffe Hall, Lancaster. Jan. 14, 1836.
Dawson, James, esq., Wray Castle, Ambleside. July 1, 1839.
Devonshire, Most Noble the Duke of, K.G., Holker Hall, Newton-
in-Cartmel. January 4, 1836.
Edmondson, John, esq., Grassyard Hall, Caton, Lancaster.
17, 1836.
Edmondson, Thomas Grassyard, esq., Grassyard Hall, Caton, Lan-
caster. February 7, 1867.
Fell, John, esq., Flan How, Ulverston.
Fell, Samuel Gregson, esq., 5 Castle St., Liverpool.
Fleming, William, esq., M.D., Rowton Grange, Chester.
I859.
Ford, William, esq., Ellel Hall, Lancaster. June 30, 1851.
Foster, John, esq., Hornby Castle, Lancaster. April 6, 1863.
Gale, Henry Richmond Hoghton, esq., Bardsey Hall, Ulverston.
January 5, 1857.
Garnett, Henry, esq., Wyreside, Lancaster. April 3, 1854.
Garnett, William James, esq., Quernmore Park, Lancaster. January
5, 1846.
Gibson, Joseph, esq., Whelprigg, Kirkby Lonsdale.
April 4, 1836.
July 2,
April
October
July 16, 1861.
April 5, 1857.
April 11,
May 20, 1863.
Gillow, Richard Thomas, esq., Leighton Hall, Lancaster. April 4,
1853.
Graham, Charles Robert, Clerk, Kirkby Ireleth, Ulverston. April
7, 1834.
Greene, Dawson Cornelius, esq., Whittington Hall, Burton, West-
morland. July 1, 1867.
Greene, Thomas, esq., Whittington Hall, Burton, Westmorland.
October 16, 1821. -
Greg, John, esq., Caton, Lancaster. December 30, 1839.
Gregson, Bryan Paget, esq., Caton, Lancaster. June 27, 1853.
Gregson, Henry, esq. (Captain), Moorlands, Lancaster. February
5
Hannay, Robert, esq., Springfield, Ulverston. April 3, 1865.
Hargreaves, William, esq., 66 Cambridge Terrace, Hyde Park,
London. October 19, 1842.
Harrison, James Stockdale, esq., Dallas Place, Lancaster. April 23
1861. -
Harrison, Matthew Benson, esq., Belgrave Lodge, Margate, Kent.
June 28, 1851.
Hartington, the Marquis of, M.P., Holker Hall, Newton-in-Cartmel.
December 30, 1860.
Hornby, Edmund Geoffrey Stanley, esq., Dalton Hall, Burton
Westmorland. June 29, 1863.
Howitt, * esq., M.D., Queen Square, Lancaster.
1867.
Huddleston, George, esq., Ulverston. April 3, 1847.
Jackson, William, esq., Lancaster. October 15, 1855.
Kennedy, Miles, esq., Burton Cottage, Ulverston. April 8, 1867.
Lodge, º esq., Hernground, Hawkshead, Windermere. April
10, 1867.
Macaulay, John, Clerk, Aldingham, Ulverston.
May 22
April 7, 1851.
Machell, John Penny, esq., The Hall, Penny Bridge, Newton-in-
Cartmel. April 27, 1829.
Mackreth, Thomas, Clerk, D.D., Halton, Lancaster, Oct. 16, 1826.
Marshall, James Garth, esq., Coniston Water Head, Ambleside.
October 16, 1846.
Marshall, John Rowlandson, esq., Hollington Villa, Saint Leonard's
Sussex. November 28, 1850. -
Marton, George Blucher Heneage, esq., Capernwray Hall, Lancaster.
June 29, 1863.
Murray, John, esq., Hornby Hall, Lancaster. June 30, 1845.
North, North, esq., Thurland Castle, Kirkby Lonsdale. August
18, 1865.
Ogden, Jonathan Robert, esq., Lakefield, Sawrey, Windermere.
April 5, 1851. -
Pedder, Thomas, esq., Finsthwaite House, Newton-in-Cartmel.
April 8, 1867.
Postlethwaite, Richard Blomeley, esq., The Grange, Milnthorp.
February 18, 1854. -
Ramsden, James, esq., Furness Abbey, Lancashire. Aug. 24, 1864.
Salisbury, Edward Dodson, esq., Middleton Tower, near Lancaster.
June 29, 1846. •
Sandys, John Dalrymple, esq., Graythwaite Hall, Newton-in-Cartmel.
April 3, 1854. .
Satterthwaite, Edward Hughes, esq., Lancaster. April 4, 1864.
Saunders, William Allen Francis, esq., Wennington Hall, near
Lancaster. December 30, 1844.
Sawrey, John, esq., Broughton Tower, Ulverston. June 26, 1837.
Sharpe, Edmund, esq., The Greaves, Lancaster. April 4, 1859.
Starkie, John Piers Chamberlain, esq., Ashton Hall, Lancaster.
February 22, 1865.
Thomson, James, esq., Wray, Lancaster. December 14, 1846.
Vitre, Edward Denis de, esq., M.D., Lancaster. January 4, 1858.
Waithman, Joseph, esq., Wray House, near Lancaster. January
17, 1865.
Waithman, Robert William, esq., Bentham House, Lancaster. April
5, 1851. t
Welch, Henry Thomas, esq., Leck Hall, Kirkby Lonsdale, January
2, 1860.
Wilson, George Edward, esq., Dallam Tower, Milnthorp. April 3
1842.
AMOUNDERNESS HUNDRED.
Addison, Thomas Batty, esq., Preston. October 11, 1820.
Ashton, Thomas, esq., Temple Langhorne, near Worcester. Feb-
ruary 25, 1848.
Atkinson, Richard, Clerk, Cockerham Vicarage, Garstang. Feb-
ruary 14, 1859.
Bairstow, John, esq., Preston.
Bickerstaff, John, esq., Preston.
Bird, Charles Henry, esq., Crookey, Garstang. January 15, 1867.
Birley, Edmund, esq., Clifton Hall, Preston. July 3, 1850.
Birley, Thomas Langton, esq., Carr Hill, Kirkham. June 28, 1854.
Birley, William, esq., The Larches, Preston. January 5, 1859.
Catterall, Peter, esq., Preston. November 28, 1853.
January 5, 1842.
November 26, 1858.
Chadwick, Francis, esq., The Hermitage, near Preston. Jan. 15, 1867
Clifton, John Talbot, esq. (Colonel), Lytham Hall, Preston. Janu
ary 1, 1845. +
Cocker, John, esq., M.D., Bank Hey, Blackpool. Sept. 15, 1866.
Cross, William Assheton, esq. (Lieut.-Colonel), Red Scar, Preston.
January 4, 1843.
Cunliffe, Ellis, esq. (Major), Lytham. January 4, 1860.
Cunliffe, John, esq., Myerscough House, Garstang. April 16, 1828.
Eden, James, esq., Fair Lawn, Lytham. October 16, 1850.
Elletson, Daniel Hope, esq., Parrox Hall, Fleetwood. January
15, 1867.
Fair, James, esq., Lytham. November 29, 1865.
644
The #istory of Lancashire—antenna.
Fazakerley-Westby, Jocelyn Tate, esq., Mowbreck Hall, Kirkham.
December 1, 1863.
Gardner, John, Clerk, Skelton Parsonage, Redcar, Yorkshire. June
27, 1853.
German, James, esq., Wine Court, Sevenoaks, Kent. June 27, 1853.
Goodair, John, esq., Moor Park, Preston. August 7, 1862.
Hawkins, John, esq., Preston. December 1, 1863.
Hoghton, Sir Henry de, baronet, 10 Winckley Street, Preston.
October 18, 1852. -
Humber, William, esq., Preston. January 2, 1856.
Jacson, Charles Roger, esq., Barton Hall, Preston.
Remp, Frederic, esq., Fleetwood. July 17, 1855.
Lowndes, Edward Chaddock, esq., 84 Eaton Place, Belgrave Square,
London, and Preston. July 3, 1867.
Moore, Richard, Clerk, Lund Vicarage, Preston. Aug. 17, 1823.
Newsham, Richard, esq., Preston. February 24, 1842.
Oct. 17, 1849.
Oliverson, Richard, esq., Goosnargh Lodge, Preston.
Park, Philip, esq., Preston. April 10, 1867.
Parr, John Owen, Clerk, Preston. January 3, 1844. -
Pedder, Henry Newsham, esq., 9 Queen's Gate, Prince Albert Road,
South Kensington, London. May 22, 1856.
Pedder, Richard, esq., Preston. October 13, 1866.
Pilkington, William Ormerod, esq., The Willows, Preston.
ary 1, 1851.
Richards, Roger Charnock, esq., Clifton, Preston.
Shawe, William, esq., Preston. July 1, 1846.
Spencer, Lawrence, esq., M.D., Preston. September 8, 1866.
Walker, Robert Seddon, esq., Catterall, Garstang. February 19,
1868.
Walmsley, Thomas, esq., Preston. August 7, 1858.
Williams, Robert Hankinson, esq., M.D., Great Eccleston, Garstang.
January 15, 1867. -
Jan. 2, 1861.
Janu-
May 22, 1862.
BLACKBURN HUNDRED.
Aitken, John, esq. (Captain), Lane End, Bacup. May 22, 1862.
Ashton, Ralph Shorrock, esq., Radfield House, Over Darwen. July
4, 1855.
Assheton, Ralph, esq., Downham, Clitheroe. May 18, 1854.
Bashall, John, esq., Lostock Hall, Preston. July 16, 1861.
Baynes, John, esq., Blackburn. July 4, 1860.
Birkbeck, John, esq., Giggleswick, Settle. October 20, 1847.
Bowden, John Butler, esq. (Lieut.-Col.), Pleasington Hall, Black-
burn. November 28, 1850.
Brooks, Thomas, esq., Sunnyside, Rawtenstall. July 4, 1855.
Calrow, William, esq., Walton Lodge, Preston. July 4, 1832.
Clayton, Edward Every, esq. (Lieut.-Col.), Rowley, near Burnley.
April 5, 1837.
Calvert, Edmund, esq., Walton-le-Dale. January 1, 1868.
Coddington, William, esq., Spring Mount, Blackburn.
25, 1867.
Cunningham, James, esq., Springburn House, Blackburn.
24, 1864.
Dewhurst, Robert, esq., Shaw Cottage, Clitheroe.
February
August
April 6, 1859.
Dickinson, William, esq., Ouzehead House, Blackburn. February
19, 1868.
Dodgson, Richard Barton, esq., Beardwood, Blackburn. May 27,
1858.
Dugdale, James, esq., Burnley. February 21, 1850.
Dugdale, James, jun., esq., Ivy Bank, Burnley. July 3, 1867.
Dugdale, Thomas, esq., Griffin Lodge, near Blackburn. Aug. 24, 1848.
Dutton, Thomas, esq., Blackburn. August 5, 1852.
Eccles, Richard, esq., Lower Darwen, Blackburn. Jan. 7, 1852.
Eccles, Thomas, esq., Lower Darwen, Blackburn. January 3, 1849.
Ecroyd, William Farrer, esq., Spring House, near Burnley. Octo-
ber 17, 1866.
England, Thomas Thornber, esq., Heirs House, Colne.
15, 1862. +
Feilden, Joseph, esq., M.P., Witton Park, Blackburn. Oct. 21, 1819.
Feilden, Henry Master, esq., Witton Park, Blackburn. April 7,
1847.
Feilden, Montague Joseph, esq. (Major), The Chain, near Preston.
January 5, 1842. -
Feilden, Sir William Henry, Baronet, Feniscowles, near Blackburn.
October 16, 1850.
Feilden, William Leyland, esq., Feniscowles, Blackburn. January
5, 1859.
Folds, James, jun., esq., Brunshaw, Burnley. July 3, 1867.
Fort, Richard, esq., M.P., Read Hall, Whalley. October 21, 1846.
Foster, George, esq., Whins House, Whalley. August 21, 1856.
Garstang, James, esq., Clitheroe. October 19, 1859.
Graham, Philip, Clerk, Turncroft, Over Darwen. April 7, 1858.
Greenway, Rev. Charles, M.A., Clerk, Earnsdale House, Over Dar-
wen. February 19, 1868.
Grimshaw, James, esq., Owl Hall, Accrington. Jan. 6, 1858.
Hardman, George Edward, esq., Springfield, Haslingden. August
3, 1863.
Hardman, Henry Hoyle, esq., Horncliffe House, Rawtenstall. July
October
2
Hargreaves, George, esq., Newchurch, Rossendale.
Hargreaves, John, esq., Broad Oak, Accrington. Feb. 26, 1847.
Harrison, Joseph, esq., Galligreaves, Blackburn. May 27, 1858.
Harrison, William, esq., Samlesbury Hall, near Blackburn. Feb-
ruary 25, 1867.
Nov. 3, 1847.
Heelis, John, esq., Burnley. October 17, 1849.
Hodges, John Fowden, esq., Balney Court, Henley-on-Thames,
April 5, 1838.
Holden, Henry, esq., Reedley House, Burnley. Nov. 30, 1848.
Hoole, William, esq., Blackburn. August 7, 1850.
Hopwood, John Turner, esq., Blackburn. October 20, 1858.
Hornby, William Henry, esq., M.P., Blackburn. Jan. 5, 1842.
Howarth, John, esq., Higher Hampsteads, Bacup. July 5, 1852.
Hoyle, Edward, esq., Spring Mount, Bacup. April 8, 1867.
Hutchinson, Robert Hopwood, esq., Highfield, near Blackburn.
February 25, 1867.
Ingham, Theophilus Hastings, esq., Marton House, Skipton.
bruary 26, 1847.
Ingram, Joseph, esq., Pleck House, Accrington. April 5, 1865.
Jackson, Robert Raynsford, esq. (Lieut.-Col.), 53 Stanley Road,
Upper Holloway, London, N. April 9, 1850.
Kay-Shuttleworth, Sir James Philips, Baronet, Gawthorpe, Burnley.
February 21, 1850.
Lace, Francis John, esq., Stone Gappe, Cross Hill, Leeds. April 4,
1855.
Montriou, Edwin Carvick, Clerk, Parsonage, Over Darwen, Black-
burn. July 5, 1858.
Moore, John, esq., Palace House, Burnley. April 6, 1859.
Mordacque, Louis Henry, Clerk, Haslingden. June 28, 1852.
Munn, James, esq., Fern Hill, Stacksteads, Manchester. April 8,
1867.
Munn, Robert, esq., Heath Hill, Stacksteads, near Manchester.
October 20, 1847.
Munn, Robert, jun., esq. (Lieut.-Col.), Thistlemount, Newchurch,
Rossendale, May 27, 1858.
Ormerod, George Henry, esq., Edgeside, Newchurch, Rossendale.
June 30, 1852.
Ormerod, John, esq., Hep Hill, Lugwardine, Hereford. July 4,
1838.
Parker, Thomas Goulbourne, esq., Browsholme, Clitheroe. January
1, 1845.
Parkinson, Christopher, esq., 19 Richmond Terrace, Blackburn.
April 10, 1867.
Peel, Jonathan, esq., Knowlmere Manor, Clitheroe. Jan. 1, 1845.
Petre, Henry, esq., Dunkenhalgh, Accrington. October 19, 1859.
Pilkington, James, esq., Blackburn. February 26, 1847.
Pilkington, William, esq., Audley House, Blackburn. July 2, 1856.
Potter, John Gerald, esq., Earnsdale, Over Darwen. April 7, 1852.
Ranken, William Bayne, esq., Hoddlesden, Over Darwen. October
13, 1866.
Rawstron, Thomas, esq., Bank House, Haslingden. April 10, 1867.
Roberts, James, esq., Tarlton House, Burnley. Nov. 28, 1850.
Robinson, William, esq., Settle. July 4, 1855.
Robinson, William, jun., esq., Ashfield, Burnley. April 6, 1859.
Rodgett, Edward, esq., Higher Walton, Preston. October 15, 1856.
Scarlett, The Honourable Sir James Yorke, K.C.B. (Lieut.-Gen.)
Bank Hall, Burnley. August 26, 1839.
Shorrock, Eccles, esq., Low Hill House, Lower Darwen. July 4, 1855.
Shorrock, James, esq., Over Darwen, Blackburn. October 17, 1855.
Slater, Henry, esq., Sparrow's Nest, Ipswich, Suffolk. August 5,
1853.
Fe-
Stansfeld, George, esq., Settle. August 11, 1842.
Starkie, Le Gendre Nicholas, esq. (Captain), Huntroyd, Padiham.
October 18, 1865.
Qſìje #istory of £antagiſtre—ºbbemba.
645
Steiner, Frederick, esq., Hyndburn, Accrington. Dec. 17, 1849.
Swale, Hogarth John, Clerk, Ingfield Hall, Settle, Yorkshire.
July 4, 1855.
Taylor, William Edward, esq., Enfield, near Accrington. April 10,
1867. -
Thursby, John Hardy, esq.
October 19, 1853.
Thursby, William, Clerk, Ormerod House, Burnley. April 13, 1835.
Thwaites, Daniel, esq., Blackburn. May 20, 1852.
Thwaites, John, esq., Troy, Blackburn. May 27, 1858.
Tipping, William, esq., Bank Hall, Clitheroe. Nov. 28, 1850.
Towneley, Charles, esq. (Colonel), Towneley, Burnley. Oct. 21, 1829.
Trappes, Charles James Byrnand, esq., Theydon House, Clitheroe.
January 15, 1867.
Trappes, Thomas Byrnand, esq., Stanley House, Clitheroe, Decem-
ber 1, 1863.
(Major), Snydale Hall, Pontefract.
LEYLAND
Anderton, William Michael Ince, esq., Euxton Hall, Chorley. Jan.
15, 1850.
Baldwin, Thomas Rigbye, Clerk, Leyland. July 4, 1855.
Blundell, John, esq., Crook Hall, Chorley. January 17, 1860.
Bretherton, William, esq., Runshaw Hall, Leyland. September 29,
I866.
Browne-Clayton, Richard Clayton, esq. January 25, 1836.
Cardwell, Right Hon. Edward, M.P., 74 Eaton Square, London.
October 15, 1856.
Cooper, John, esq., The Oaks, Preston. October 20, 1852.
Crosse, Thomas Bright, esq., Shaw Hill, Chorley. Jan. 4, 1832.
Eccles, John, esq., Wellfield, Leyland. August 24, 1848.
Eckersley, Nathaniel, esq., M.P., Standish Hall, Wigan.
2, 1850.
Fermor-Hesketh, Sir Thomas George, bart., M.P. (Lieut.-Col.),
Rufford Hall, Ormskirk. April 4, 1849.
Greene, John Stock Turner, esq., Adlington Hall, Chorley. Decem-
ber 14, 1846.
Hollins, Edward, esq., Preston. November 29, 1865.
Hulton, William Adam, esq., Hurst Grange, Preston. May 27, 1850.
January
Walmsly, George, esq., Paddock House, Church, Accrington.
October 18, 1854. -
Walsh, Nathaniel, esq., Orchard Bank, Over Darwen. September
15, 1866. ,
Weld, John, esq., Leagrim Hall, Preston. July 4, 1860.
Whitehead, Joseph Wood, esq., Alder Grange, Rawtenstall, Man-
chester. May 22, 1862.
Whitaker, John, esq., Broadclough, Bacup. July 4, 1855.
Whitaker, Thomas Hordern, esq., The Holme, Burnley. January
10, 1842.
while, Robert, esq. (Major), Whalley Abbey, Whalley. January
, 1864.
Winstanley, William, esq., Chaigeley Manor, Clitheroe, and Pres-
ton. October 21, 1841.
Wood, William Hewson, esq., Cragg, near Colne. Oct. 15, 1834.
Worsley, James, esq., The Laund, Accrington. January 3, 1849.
HUNDRED.
Lightoller, George Henry, esq., Yarrow House, Chorley. Jan. 19,
1867.
Marshall, Frederick Earnshaw, esq., Penwortham Hall, Preston.
May 27, 1858.
Park, John, esq., Ollerton Hall, Chorley. January 5, 1859.
Parker, Robert Townley, esq., Cuerden Hall, Preston. Jan. 14, 1819.
Parker, Thomas Townley, esq., Charnock Hall, Chorley. Nov. 3,
1847
Rawstorne, Lawrence, esq., Hutton Hall, Preston.
Rigby, John, esq., Chorley. February 15, 1860.
Silvester, Edward Edge, esq., North Hall, Chorley. Jan. 5, 1842.
Smethurst, Augustus William, esq., Rookwood, Chorley. July 1,
1857.
Nov. 28, 1866.
Smethurst, Richard, esq., Ellerbeck, Chorley. July 3, 1850.
Sparling, John, Clerk, Eccleston, Chorley. October 17, 1855.
Stonor, Charles Joseph, esq., Anderton Hall, Chorley. Oct. 6, 1866.
Talbot, William Hawkshead, esq., Wrightington, Wigan. May 18,
1848.
Trafford, John Randolphus de, esq., Croston Hall, Chorley. Nov.
28, 1850.
WEST DERBy HUNDRED.
Alison, Richard, jun., esq., Woolton Heys, Liverpool. April 27,
1836.
Anderson, Thomas Darnley, esq., West Dingle, Toxteth Park,
Liverpool. November 2, 1858. -
Ashton, Thomas Mather, esq., M.D., Ormskirk. Oct. 28, 1856.
Aspinall, Robert Augustus, esq.; 27 Lowndes Street, Belgrave
Square, London, S.W. October 15, 1855.
Artingstall, George, esq., Warrington. January 18, 1859.
Atkinson, William, esq., Claremont, Southport. Nov. 3, 1863.
Bankes, Meyrick, esq., Winstanley Hall, Wigan. April 18, 1849.
Bates, Edward, esq., Bellefield, West Derby, Liverpool; and Gyrn
Castle, Flintshire. October 30, 1866.
Bevan, Reece, esq., Freckleton, Wigan. November 1, 1838.
Bibby, John, esq., Hart Hill, Allerton, Liverpool. Nov. 2, 1858.
Birch, Sir Thomas Bernard, bart., Hazles, Prescot. Feb. 1, 1830.
Blackburne, John Ireland, esq., Hale, Warrington. July 22, 1816.
Blackburne, John Ireland, junior, esq. (Lieut.-Col.), Hale, Warring-
ton. April 17, 1860.
Bleckley, Henry, esq., Latchford Grange, Warrington. April 10,
1867.
Blair, James Kennedy, esq., Liverpool. April 21, 1862.
Blundell, Nicholas, esq. (Major), Crosby Hall, Liverpool.
17, 1855.
Boulton, William Henry, Clerk, Aughton, Ormskirk. April 21, 1842.
Bourne, James, esq., M.P. (Lieut.-Col.), Heathfield House, Liver-
pool. January 17, 1844.
Bourne, James Thomas, esq. (Captain), Liverpool. Oct. 18, 1848.
Bourne, Thomas, esq. (Lieut.-Col.), 39 Rodney Street, Liverpool.
July 4, 1855.
Bourne, Thomas Rymer, esq., Prince's Park, Liverpool. April 4, 1864.
Bramley-Moore, John, esq., Liverpool. January 15, 1850.
Brancker, William Hill, esq., Greenfield, Billinge, Wigan.
ber 3, 1849.
Bright, Samuel, esq., Liverpool. November 1, 1838.
Bromilow, David, esq., Haresfinch House, St. Helens. April 23, 1850.
Bromilow, Henry George, esq., Osborn Promenade, Southport.
April 10, 1867.
April
Decem-
Brocklebank, Ralph, esq., Childwall Hall, Liverpool. Nov. 2, 1858.
Brocklebank, Thomas, esq., Springwood, Allerton, Liverpool. July
15, 1856.
Burton, Edward, esq., Tyldesley, Manchester. April 15, 1867.
Burton, Oliver, esq., Tyldesley, Manchester. April 19, 1859.
Campbell, John, esq., Liverpool. April 20, 1852.
Castellain, Alfred, esq., Aigburth, Liverpool. April 23, 1867.
Catterall, John, esq., New Brighton, Birkenhead. July 4, 1855.
Chambers, John Hickinbotham (Lieut.-Col.), Everton, Liverpool.
May 27, 1858.
Chaloner, Charles, esq., Aigburth Hall, Garston, Liverpool.
13, 1853.
Cropper, Edward, esq., Dingle Bank, Liverpool. January 17, 1849.
Cross, John, esq., Gidlow House, Wigan. March 2, 1862.
Cross, Richard Assheton, esq., Hill Cliff, Warrington. April 17,
1860.
Daglish, George, esq., Wigan. May 27, 1858.
Daglish, Robert, junior, esq., St. Helen's. July 14, 1857.
July
Deacon, Henry, esq., Appleton House, near Warrington. October
31, 1865.
Dixon, John Jones, Clerk, Ivy Cottage, Hindley, Wigan. May 27,
1858. -
Earle, Frederic William, esq., Edenhurst, Huyton, Liverpool. July
14, 1858. -
Earle, Hardman, esq., Allerton, Liverpool. October 30, 1855.
Evans, Joseph, esq., Haydock Grange, St. Helens. Jan. 14, 1868.
Evans, Josiah, esq., Hayes Green, near Warrington. October 22, 1849.
Evans, William Lees, esq., Fazakerley House, Prescot. January
15, 1867.
Ewart, Joseph Christopher, esq., New Brighton, Birkenhead. April
25, 1836.
Fenton, James, esq., Norton Hall, Mickleton, Broadway, Gloucester-
shire. April 5, 1858.
Fernie, William James, esq., Seafield, Seaforth, near Liverpool.
July 14, 1863.
Fernley, John, esq., Clareville, Southport.
Fletcher, Ralph, esq., Atherton, Manchester.
December 19, 1864.
April 19, 1859.
646
(The #t3tory of £ancashire—ºbbemba.
Gamble, David, esq. (Lieut.-Col.), St. Helens. October 31, 1865.
Gardner, Richard Cardwell, esq., Beechfield, Prince's Park, Liver-
pool. April 4, 1866. -
Gaskell, Henry Lomax, esq., Wigan. October 30, 1849.
Gaskell, Holbrook, esq., Birkdale Park, Southport. Jan. 6, 1851.
Gerard, Frederick Sewallis, esq., Aspul House, Wigan. April 23,
1845.
Gerard, Sir Robert Tolver, baronet, New Hall, Ashton, Newton-le-
Willows. October 29, 1845.
Gibbon, Edward, esq., Rosehill, Gateacre, Liverpool. Oct. 28, 1856.
Gidlow, James, esq., Arley Hall, Wigan. May 27, 1858.
Gilmour, Hamilton Boswell, esq., Fulwood Park, Liverpool.
11, 1865.
Gladstone, Robertson, esq., Court Hey, Liverpool. April 23, 1850.
Glover, James, esq., Southport. April 7, 1852.
Gossage, William, esq., Cressington Park, Aigburth, Liverpool.
February 19, 1868.
Greenall, Edward, esq., Grappenhall, Warrington. Aug. 25, 1858.
Greenall, Gilbert, esq., M.P., Walton Hall, Warrington. July 12,
1843.
Greenall, James Fenton, esq., Grappenhall Lodge, Warrington.
April 23, 1867.
Gregson, Matthew, esq., Toxteth Park, Liverpool. Oct. 30, 1866.
Guest, Richard, esq., Etherstone Hall, Leigh, Manchester. April
6, 1859. *
Gunning, George William, esq., The Hall, Wigan. April 8, 1856.
Haigh, Thomas, esq., Elm Hall, Wavertree, Liverpool. July 13,
1858. .
Haliburton, Alexander Fowden, esq., Torquay. January 5, 1842.
Hall, William, esq., Seaforth, Liverpool. November 2, 1837.
Halliwell, William, esq., Southport. October 31, 1865. -
Harden, John William, esq., Rock Ferry, Cheshire. January 19,
1848.
Heald, William Norris, esq., Brook House, Halewood, Liverpool.
September 15, 1866.
Heyworth, Lawrence, esq., Yew Tree, near Liverpool.
2, 1837.
Heywood, John Pemberton, esq., Liverpool. November 9, 1835.
Hodgson, David, esq., Liverpool. January 20, 1847.
Holme, Samuel, esq., Birklands, Southport. November 2, 1858.
Holt, William Durning, esq., 23 Edge Lane, Liverpool. May 20,
1863.
Hornby, Hugh, esq., Wavertree, Liverpool. November 9, 1835.
Hornby, Thomas Dyson, esq., Druids' Cross, Liverpool. April 18,
1865.
Hornby, William Windham, esq. (Rear Admiral), Knowsley, Pres-
cot. November 2, 1858.
Horsfall, George Henry, esq., Liverpool. July 13, 1858.
Horsfall, Robert, esq., Royal Bank Buildings, Liverpool.
30, 1866.
Horsfall, Thomas Berry, esq., M.P., Millbank House, Liverpool.
January 17, 1849.
Hosken-Harper, William, esq., Statham, Warrington.
25, 1850.
Houghton, Richard, junior, esq., Sandheys, Waterloo, Liverpool.
April 18, 1865.
Hughes, Michael, esq., Sherdley Hall, St. Helens.
Hutchison, Robert, esq., Liverpool. July 15, 1862.
Jacson, John, esq., Hindley, near Wigan. July 3, 1848.
Jackson, Jonathan, Clerk, Southport. July 13, 1852.
Jary, Robert Herbert Heath, esq. (Major), Haresfinch House, St.
Helens. September 15, 1866.
Jeffery, James Reddecliff, esq., Woolton Hall, Liverpool.
1865.
Jones, Benjamin Heywood, esq., Lark Hill, Liverpool.
28, 1851.
Johnson, Richard, esq., Warrenside, Blundell Sands, Liverpool.
April 19, 1865.
Johnson, Jabez, esq., Pennington Hall, Leigh, near Manchester.
August 28, 1862.
Johnson, John, esq., Bank House, Runcorn.
Rendrick, James, esq., M.D., Warrington. January 18, 1859.
Kershaw, John Atherton, Clerk, Ormskirk. May 18, 1848.
Rirkpatrick, Thomas, esq., The Walmsleys, Leigh, Manchester.
August 28, 1865.
Rnowles, Thomas, esq., The Platt, Ince, Wigan.
July
November
October
February
Jan. 20, 1834.
June 26,
October
October 31, 1854.
April 8, 1867.
Lacy, Henry Charles, esq., Withdeane Hall, near Brighton. March
31, 1841.
Laird, William, esq., 23 Castle Street, Liverpool. Nov. 2, 1858.
Lamb, Jonathan, esq., Wigan. December 19, 1864.
Taylor, Samuel, esq., Ibbotsholme, Windermere.
Lamb, William, esq., Wigan. July 4, 1855.
Lancaster, John, esq., Ashfield, Standish, Wigan. Oct. 31, 1865.
Langton, William, esq., Abercromby Square, Liverpool. April 18,
1865.
Lawrence, George Hall, esq., Liverpool. October 29, 1850.
Lees, Samuel, esq., Southport. October 24, 1836.
Lindsay, Honourable Colin, Haigh Hall, Wigan. January 3, 1844.
MacCorquodale, George, esq. (Lieut.-Col.), Newton-le-Willows.
February 29, 1859. -
Macrae, James Hardy, esq., Uplands, West Derby, near Liverpool.
May 20, 1863.
Marsh, Thomas Coxhead Chisenhale, esq., Gayner Park, Epping,
Essex. June 28, 1848.
Milner, Nathaniel Denis, esq., Moore, Warrington. April 20, 1852.
Moon, William, esq., Woolton Hill House, Little Woolton, Liver-
pool. April 18, 1865.
Morris, John Grant, esq., Allerton Priory, Liverpool. July 12, 1859.
Moss, Gilbert Winter, esq., The Beach, Aigburth, Liverpool.
April 19, 1859.
Moss, Thomas Edwards, esq., Roby Hall, Prescot.
1852.
Mould, Richard Andrews, esq., 23 Northumberland Terrace, Everton,
Liverpool. July 16, 1867.
Musgrove, Edgar, esq., West Tower, Aughton, Ormskirk. January
19, 1864.
Neilson, Robert, esq., Halewood, Liverpool. January 21, 1846.
Norbury, John, esq., Atherton, Manchester. April 23, 1867.
Parr, Thomas, esq., Grappenhall Heys, Warrington. July 14, 1836.
Pennington, Richard, esq., Hindley Lodge, Wigan. May 24, 1853.
Pennington, Richard, jun., esq., Muncaster Hall, Rainford, St.
Helens. July 1, 1867.
Pierpoint, Benjamin, esq., St. Austin's, Warrington. Oct. 28, 1856.
Pilkington, Richard, esq., Windle Hall, St. Helens. Jan. 18, 1853.
Pilkington, William, esq., Eccleston Hall, St. Helens. January 21,
1846.
Pilkington, William, junior, esq., Sutton Grange, St. Helens.
April 19, 1859.
Pole, Charles Chandos, esq., 1 Falkner Street, Liverpool.
10, 1867.
Prescott, John, esq., Dalton, near Ormskirk. October 31, 1860.
Preston, William, esq., Rock House, West Derby, Liverpool.
January 4, 1854.
Raffles, Thomas Stamford, esq., Liverpool. July 17, 1860.
Roberts, William, esq., Fir Grove, Lydiate, Ormskirk. May 18,
1864.
Royds, Henry, esq., Elm House, Wavertree, Liverpool. January 18,
1859.
Rylands, John, esq., Warrington. August 5, 1861.
Rylands, Peter, esq., Bewsey House, Warrington. October 31, 1854.
Sandbach, William Robertson, esq., 10 Prince's Gate, Hyde Park,
London, S.W. July 17, 1855.
Seel, Thomas Molyneux, esq., Huyton Hey, Prescot. Aug. 3, 1829.
May 24, 1827.
January 20,
April
Sillar, Zachariah, esq., M.D., Rainforth Hall, St. Helens. April
23, 1850.
Shand, Francis, esq., Woolton Wood, Liverpool. Nov. 2, 1858.
Sherlock, Harold Hopley, Clerk, Ashton Rectory, near Wigan.
April 18, 1849.
Skelmersdale, Right Hon. Lord, Lathom House, Ormskirk.
ber 29, 1861.
Smith, Richard Bryan, esq., Villa Nova, near Shrewsbury. April
9, 1851.
St. George, Howard, Clerk, Billinge Parsonage, Wigan.
1858.
Stanley, Hon. Charles James Fox, Loxley Hall, Uttoxeter, Stafford-
shire. October 29, 1850.
Stanley, Hon. Frederick Arthur, M.P., Knowsley, Prescot.
20, 1866.
Octo-
May 27,
January
Stanley, Right Hon. Lord, M.P., Knowsley, Prescot. November 1,
1854.
Stanton, Henry, esq., Warrington. July 12, 1843.
Steers, Spencer James, esq., Halewood, Liverpool. October 30,
Stewart, John, esq., Mount Pleasant, Liverpool. July 14, 1858.
1858.
Stubs, Peter, esq., Statham Lodge, Warrington. April 23, 1867.
Sullivan, Sir Edward, baronet, Ravenhead, St. Helens. November
1, 1864.
Swainson, John, esq., Elms Wood, Liverpool. April 18, 1865.
Symonds, Charles Price, esq., Ormskirk. October 30, 1866.
Qſìje #istorm of £ancashire—ºbbemba.
647
Taylor, Samuel, junior, esq., Eccleston Lodge, Prescot. February
19, 1855.
Taylor, James, esq., Whitley, Wigan.
Taylor, Thomas, esq., The Limes, near Wigan. January 10, 1848.
Theakstone, Robert, esq., Seaforth, Liverpool. April 5, 1848.
Thewlis, Shaw, esq., Warrington. August 6, 1858. *
Thompson, Henry Yates, esq., Thingwall, Liverpool. Oct. 30, 1866.
December 19, 1864.
Thompson, Samuel Henry, esq., Thingwall Hall, Liverpool. June
13, 1848.
Tinne, John Abraham, esq., Brierley, Aigburth, Liverpool. July
15, 1846.
Tobin, James Aspinall, esq., Liverpool. July 13, 1858.
Turner, Charles, esq., M.P., Dingle Head, Liverpool. July 16,
1850.
Walmsley, Sir Joshua, knight, Meadfoot House, Hesketh Crescent,
Torquay. January 1, 1841.
Walmesley, William Gerard, esq., Westwood House, Wigan. April
25, 1836.
Wannop, William, Clerk, Burscough, Ormskirk. April 5, 1858.
Webb, Charles John, esq., Brooklands, near Ormskirk. Jan. 5, 1859.
Weld-Blundell, Thomas, esq., Ince Blundell Hall, Great Crosby,
Liverpool. July 17, 1855.
SALFORD
Ainsworth, Peter, esq., Smithells Hall, Bolton. January 6, 1836.
Ainsworth, Richard Henry, esq., Moss Bank, Bolton. April 10,
1867. -
Andrew, Ely, esq., Merebank, Audenshaw, Ashton-under-Lyne.
September 25, 1866.
Andrew, George, esq., Apsley House, Mossley, near Manchester.
February 27, 1865.
Armitage, Sir Elkanah, Knight, Pendleton, Manchester.
11, 1841.
Armstrong, Robert Baynes, esq., Temple, London. Feb. 22, 1849.
Arrowsmith, Peter Rothwell, esq., The Ferns, Bolton. December
10, 1855.
Ashton, Frank, esq. (Major), Polefield, Prestwich, Manchester.
August 28, 1854.
Ashton, John Howarth, esq., Polefield Hall, Prestwich, Manchester.
July 8, 1867.
Ashton, Thomas, esq., Ford Bank, Didsbury, Manchester.
24, 1852.
Ashton, Thomas, esq., Middleton, Manchester.
Ashworth, Edmund, esq., Egerton Hall, Bolton.
January
May
January 6, 1845.
April 20, 1847.
Ashworth, George Leach, esq., Roach House, Rochdale. July 8,
1861.
Ashworth, Henry, esq., The Oaks, Turton, Bolton. February
26, 1838.
Ashworth, Richard, esq., Lea Bank, Rawtenstall, Manchester.
May 19, 1859.
Ashworth, Thomas, esq., Belle Green, Rochdale.
Aspland, Alfred, esq., Dukinfield, Ashton-under Lyne.
1861.
Astley, Francis Dukinfield Palmer, esq., Dukinfield Lodge, Cheshire.
April 8, 1850.
Baker, Charles, esq., Springfield, Edgeley, Stockport. July 8, 1867.
Bardsley, Sir James Lomax, knight, M.D., 8 Chatham Street, Man-
chester. July 5, 1858.
Barnes, Alfred, esq., Farnworth, Manchester. Dec. 30, 1861.
Barnes, Robert, esq., Harefield Grove, near Uxbridge, Middlesex.
February 28, 1859.
Barnes, Thomas, esq., M.P., Farnworth, Bolton. August 27, 1849.
Barton, Samuel, esq., Beachfield, Whalley Range, Manchester.
April 11, 1859.
Barton, William, esq., Bent House, Aspull, Wigan. Oct. 21, 1867.
Bates, Ralph, esq., Cockerill, Stalybridge. April 15, 1867.
Bayley, Charles Cheetham, esq., The Poplars, 159 Plymouth Grove,
Chorlton-upon-Medlock, Manchester. January 10, 1853.
Bayley, William, esq., Stamford Lodge, Stalybridge. January
10, 1859.
Bazley, Thomas, esq., M.P., Tolmers, Hertford. July 4, 1853.
Bealey, Richard, esq., The Close, Radcliffe, near Manchester.
Feb. 25, 1856.
Becker, John Leigh, esq., Foxdenton Hall, Chadderton, Manchester.
May 22, 1867.
Bentley, John, esq., 9 Portland Place, London. October 26, 1828.
Birley, Hugh, esq., Didsbury, Manchester. October 22, 1866.
July 8, 1861.
May 27,
Whaley, Thomas, esq., Orrell Mount, Wigan. March 2, 1862.
Wheeler, Thomas, esq., LL.D., Serjeant-at-Law, 44 St. George's
Square, South Belgravia, London, S.W. July 15, 1862.
White, Henry, esq., Warrington. April 23, 1867.
Whitley, William, esq., St. Helens. September 15, 1866.
Whitlow, Richard Meadowcroft, esq., Southport. June 29, 1859.
Wilbraham, Hon. Edward Bootle, Lathom House, Ormskirk.
June 28, 1854. - -
Wild, Richard, esq., Eldon Lodge, Birkdale Park, Southport.
August 28, 1854.
Withers, Richard, esq., The Uplands, West Derby, Liverpool.
January 14, 1868.
Withington, Thomas Ellames, esq. (Captain), Culcheth Hall,
Warrington. July 30, 1857.
Wood, Peter, esq., M.D., Southport. April 5, 1858.
Woodcock, Henry, esq., Bank House, Wigan. April 5, 1865.
Woods, Henry, esq., M.P., Wigan. January 19, 1848.
Wright, William, esq., The Oaklands, Preston Brook, Cheshire.
July 14, 1857.
Wrigley, James Hardy, esq., Southport. April 22, 1851.
Yoº º esq., Birchfield, Farnworth, Warrington. February
5 &
HUNDRED.
bº, :ohn Shepherd, Clerk, Moss Lee, Bolton-le-Moors. July 1,
9.
Birley, Richard, esq., Manchester. January 1, 1844.
Birley, Thomas Hornby, esq., Highfield, Heaton Mersey, Man-
chester. January 7, 1861.
Blackburne, John George, esq. (Major), Dryclough, Oldham. Oc-
tober 22, 1866.
Blacklock, William Thomas, esq., Pendleton, Manchester.
13, 1863.
Blair, Harrison, esq., Peel Hall, Bolton. January 7, 1850.
Blair, Stephen, esq., Bolton. July 5, 1852.
Bradbury, John, esq., Broomstair House, Haughton, Manchester.
February 25, 1867.
Bradshaw, John, esq., Knowle, Guildford, Surrey. Jan. 10, 1842.
Briggs, William, esq., Halifax. January 11, 1841.
Brierley, James, esq., Westhill, Rochdale. October 22, 1866.
Brierley, Joseph, esq., Castleton, Rochdale. November 23, 1866.
Biº º Ridgway, esq., Bridge House, Bolton. January
, 1867.
Biº J . esq., M.P., Alderley Edge, near Manchester. February
, 1858. -
Bright, Thomas, esq., Greenbank, Rochdale. Oct. 23, 1865.
Bºº, º esq., MOSS Lodge, Ashton-under-Lyne. October
, 1865. -
Buckley, James, esq., Westbank House, Heaton Mersey, near
Manchester. July 4, 1864.
Buckley, James Frederick, esq., The Nook, Greenfield, Saddleworth.
April 15, 1867.
Buckley, Nathaniel, esq., Ryecroft, Ashton-under-Lyne.
26, 1861.
Bury, Henry, esq., Wykeham Abbey, Sherburne, York. Oct. 24, 1859.
Butterworth, James, esq., Rake Bank, Rochdale. Feb. 28, 1859.
cºlº William Romaine, junior, esq., Manchester. October
25, 1858. -
Cannon, John, esq., Spring Bank, Turton, Bolton. April 23, 1867.
Chadwick, Elias, esq., Puddlestone Court, Leominster. January
10, 1842. -
Chadwick, James, esq., Drake House, Rochdale. Aug. 28, 1854.
chº John, esq., Lark Hill, Ashton-under-Lyne. January
0, 1853. z
Chadwick, Robert, esq., High Bank, Prestwich, Manchester.
uary 8, 1855.
Chapman, John, esq., Hill End, Mottram, Cheshire. April 20, 1847.
Cheetham, Charles, esq., Rycroft House, Heywood. May 23, 1864.
Cheetham, John, esq., M.P., Stalybridge. January 11, 1836.
º Richard, esq., Poynton Towers, near Stockport. July 4,
864.
Collinge, James, esq., Kinnerton Lodge, Broughton, near Chester.
July 5, 1852.
April
August
Jan-
Cooke, Thomas, esq., Rusholme Hall, Manchester. October 22, 1855.
November 4, 1858.
Ashton-under-Lyne.
Cooper, Henry, esq., Downey House, Royton.
Coulthart, John ROSS, esq., Croft House,
|May 31, 1858.
648
Qſìje #istory of 3Lancagiſtre—flutenba.
Crewdson, Thomas Dilworth, esq., 8 Cecil Street, Greenheys,
Manchester. October 22, 1866.
Crook, Joseph, esq., Oakfield, Heaton, near Bolton. April 14, 1856.
Cross, Thomas, esq., Mortfield, Bolton. June 30, 1858.
Darbishire, Charles James, esq., Rivington, near Chorley. October
26, 1840.
I)awson, John, esq., Mount Pleasant, Bacup. April 5, 1857.
Dearden, James Griffith, esq., Rochdale Manor, Rochdale.
ber 22, 1866. -
Dickins, Thomas, esq., Middleton, near Manchester. July 5, 1858.
Dobson, Benjamin, esq., Mere Hill, Bolton. February 19, 1868.
Egerton, Honourable Algernon Fulke, M.P., Worsley Old Hall,
Manchester. July 1, 1861.
Ellison, Cuthbert Edward, esq., 10 Prince of Wales Terrace, Ken-
sington, London. May 26, 1862.
Entwisle, John Smith, esq., Foxholes, Rochdale. Jan. 10, 1842.
Fairbairn, Thomas, esq., Brambridge House, Winchester. May
23, 1853.
Fenton, James, esq., Gale House, Littleborough, Manchester.
April 15, 1867.
Fenton, John, esq., Plumpton Hall, Heywood. Feb. 27, 1865.
Fenton, Joseph, esq., Langley Lodge, Maidencombes, Torquay.
August 3, 1863.
Fenton, Joseph, esq., Bamford Hall, Rochdale.
Fenton, William, esq., Meadowcroft, Rochdale. Feb. 28, 1848.
Fielden, John, esq., Dobroyd, Todmorden. February 27, 1865.
Fielden, Joshua, esq., Stansfield Hall, Todmorden. February 27,
1865.
Fletcher, John, esq., Waterhead, Windermere. April 9, 1832.
Fowler, Robinson, esq., City Police Court, Manchester. August
28, 1865.
Garforth, William, esq., Highfield House, Dukinfield, Cheshire.
October 22, 1866.
Gibb, William, esq., Swinton Park, near Manchester.
1851.
Gladstone, Murray, esq., Broughton House, Manchester, July 8, 1867.
Gladstone, Robert, esq., Manchester. January 1, 1844.
Grey, William, esq., M.P. (Lieut.-Col.), Darcy Lever Hall, Bolton.
December 10, 1855.
Grundy, John, esq., Wolstenholme Hall, Rochdale.
Hall, Albert, esq., Stalybridge. January 10, 1859.
Hardcastle, James, esq., Firwood, Bolton. April 9, 1845.
Hargreaves, William, esq., Denley Hall, Farnworth, Bolton,
April 10, 1867.
Hardman, Henry, esq., Chamber Hall, Bury. February 28, 1842.
Hargreaves, John, esq., Silwood Park, Sunninghill, Berkshire.
April 9, 1845.
Harrison, David, esq., Stalybridge. January 12, 1835.
Harrison, Thomas, esq., West Hill, Stalybridge. Jam. 10, 1853.
Harrison, William Henry, esq., Highfield, Stalybridge. August
29, 1864.
Harter, James Collier, esq., Manchester. May 23, 1859.
Harvey, William, esq., Acton Square, Salford, Manchester.
21, 1860.
Heald, James, esq., Didsbury, near Manchester. Oct. 22, 1838.
Healey, Robert, esq., Hurstead, Rochdale. January 10, 1859.
Heape, Robert Taylor, esq., Highfield, Rochdale. Aug. 7, 1858.
Heginbottom, George, esq., Birkdale Park, Southport. August
26, 1861.
Heywood, Arthur Henry, esq., The How, Prestwich, Manchester.
December 3, 1860.
Heywood, James, esq., 26, Kensington Palace Gardens, London, W.
October 22, 1838.
Heywood, Oliver, esq., Acresfield, Manchester. July 7, 1851.
Heywood, Robert, esq., Bolton. August 31, 1835.
Hibbert, John Tomlinson, esq., M.P., The Grange, Urmston, Man-
chester. July 9, 1855.
Hick, John, esq., Bolton-le-Moors. June 30, 1858.
Hinchliffe, George, esq., Stoodley Lodge, near Todmorden.
29, 1864.
Hinmers, William, esq., Cleveland House, Birkdale, Southport.
January 9, 1865.
Holt, James, esq., Yorkshire Street, Rochdale. January 10, 1859.
Holt, James Maden, esq., Stubby Lee, Bacup, Manchester. April
5, 1858.
Hoyle, James, esq., Larkfield, Rochdale. November 28, 1864.
Hulton, William Ford, esq., Hulton Park, Bolton. April 13, 1835.
Hurst, Richard, esq., Springhill, Rochdale. November 28, 1864.
|Butchinson, James, esq., Broomhill, Pendlebury, Manchester.
October 25, 1858.
Octo-
Jan. 3, 1853.
April 14,
Jan. 11, 1841.
May
August
Hutchinson, John (Lieut.-Col.), Bury. August 25, 1858.
Hutchinson, William, esq., Bury. July 6, 1845.
Jackson, Theophilus, esq., Parkfield, Middleton, Manchester. July
16, 1867.
Jones, Joseph, esq., Abberley Hall, Stourport. Jan. 6, 1845.
Joule, Benjamin St. John Baptist, esq., Thorncliffe, Old Trafford,
Manchester. October 22, 1866.
Ray, Edward Greenwood, esq., Mill House, Whitworth, Rochdale.
October 23, 1865.
Kay, John, esq., Salford, Manchester. February 22, 1849.
Kay, John Robinson, esq., Bass Lane House, Bury. Feb. 22, 1849.
Kay, Richard, esq., Chamber House, Heywood. Feb. 27, 1865.
Kearsley, Edward Sanderson, esq., The Height, Bolton. Feb. 19, 1868.
Relsall, Henry, esq., Rochdale, August 27, 1838.
Kelsall, Robert, esq., Deeplish Hall, Rochdale. Nov. 28, 1864.
Kemp, George Tawke, esq., Beechwood, Rochdale. July 8, 1861.
Rennedy, John Lawson, esq., Ardwick House, Manchester. July
3, 1854. §
Kenworthy, Benjamin Mellor, esq., Ashton-under-Lyne. July 4,
1864.
Rershaw, James, esq., Delamere Place, Ashton-under-Lyne.
ruary 25, 1867.
Kershaw, John Mellor, esq., Dunham Terrace, Ashton-under-Lyne.
October 22, 1866.
Langworthy, Edward Ryley, esq., Victoria Park, Manchester.
December 2, 1850.
Leach, Edmund, esq., Summer Castle, Rochdale. July 8, 1867.
Lees, Edward Brown, esq., Clarksfield, Oldham. April 15, 1867.
Lees, George, esq., Werneth, Oldham. January 1, 1844.
Lees, James, esq., Alkrington Hall, Manchester. July 5, 1858.
Lees, James, esq., Delph Lodge, Saddleworth. August 25, 1851.
Lees, Samuel Duncuft, esq., M.D., Grey House, Ashton-under-
Lyne. September 25, 1866.
Lees, Thomas Evans, esq., Hathershaw, Oldham. Sept. 22, 1866.
Leppoc, Henry Julius, esq., Kersal Crag, Manchester. October
22, 1866.
Loch, George, esq., Q.C., 2 Westminster Chambers, Victoria Street,
London, S.W. January 11, 1847.
Lomax, John, esq., Springfield, Bury. February 27, 1854.
Loyd, Edward, esq. (Lieutenant-Colonel), Lillesden, near Hawk-
hurst, Kent. April 20, 1847. -
Maclure, John William, esq., Sheen Bank, Fallowfield, Manchester.
January 11, 1864.
Maclure, Robert, esq., Heaton Norris, Stockport. July 9, 1861.
Marsland, Edward, esq., Henbury Hall, Macclesfield. May 24, 1852.
Marsland, Peter Edward, esq., Stockport. April 10, 1837.
Mart, J. Forveaux, esq., 29 Crescent, Salford. October 29, 1867.
Martin, Peter, esq., The Street, near Chorley. October 22, 1849.
Mason, Hugh, esq., Groby Hall, Ashton-under-Lyne. August 25,
1858.
Maude, Daniel, esq., Blackheath Park, Kent. April 19, 1838.
Mayson, John Schofield, esq., Manchester. August 29, 1864.
Mellor, George, esq., Hollybank, Ashton-under-Lyne. May 31, 1858.
Feb-
Mellor, John James, esq., The Ferns, Bury, Lancashire. April
10, 1867.
Mellor, Jonathan, esq., Polefield, Prestwich, Manchester. July 4,
1859,
Mellor, Thomas Walton, esq., Ashton-under-Lyne. March 2, 1863.
Mendel, Sam, esq., Manley Hall, Manchester. October 22, 1866.
Milne, Alfred, esq., Manchester. July 15, 1862.
Milne, Henry Travis, esq., Crompton Hall, Oldham. November
29, 1858. k
Molesworth, George Mill Frederick, esq., Town House, Rochdale.
October 24, 1853.
Moss, Elkanah, esq., Ravenscroft Hall, Middlewich. July 5, 1852.
Mayall, John, esq., Mossley, Ashton-under-Lyne. Aug. 28, 1862.
Neild, Jonathan, esq., Dunster House, Rochdale. Jan. 10, 1859.
Nelson, Joseph Robson, esq., Waterloo, Oldham. Aug. 28, 1862.
Norreys, Robert Henry, esq., Davyhulme Hall, Manchester. Janu-
ary 11, 1847.
Openshaw, Thomas Lomax, esq., Heaton Grove, near Bury. Oc-
tober 23, 1865.
Openshaw, William, esq., Redvales, Bury. January 4, 1854.
Ormerod, Abraham, esq., Ridgefoot House, Todmorden. July 7,
I856.
Ormerod, Peter, esq., Chamber Hall, Bolton. April 9, 1845.
Ovens, Edward, esq., Manchester. May 31, 1858.
Pagan, John Thomson, esq., Oak Lodge, Guildford. Aug. 3, 1863.
Peacock, Richard, esq., Gorton Hall, Manchester. October 22,
1866.
Çffe historg of £ancašijire—ºntenna.
649
Pearson, William, esq., The Yews, Lower Broughton, Manchester.
April 15, 1867.
Pender, John, esq., Crumpsall House, near Manchester.
1863.
Philips, Robert Needham, esq., M.P., The Park, Manchester.
April 20, 1847.
Platt, John, esq., M.P., Werneth Park, Oldham. Aug. 25, 1851.
Platt, Robert, esq., Stalybridge. December 14, 1846.
Potter, Charles, esq., Whalley Range, Manchester. Feb. 28, 1848.
Potter, Thomas Bayley, esq., M.P., Buile Hill, Pendleton, Man-
chester. July 7, 1851.
Prescot, Charles Kenrick, Clerk, Stockport. January 1, 1844.
Radcliffe, John, esq., Moorfield, Withington, Manchester. October
23, 1865.
Radcliffe, Joshua, esq., Balderstone, Rochdale. October 17, 1866.
Radcliffe, Josiah, esq., Werneth Park, Oldham. Aug. 28, 1854.
Radcliffe, Samuel, esq., Werneth Park, Oldham. July 7, 1851.
Raines, Francis Robert, Clerk, Milnrow, Rochdale. July 15, 1845.
Rawson, Henry, esq., Prestwich Lodge, Manchester. May 28,
1865.
Redhead, Richard Milne, esq., Springfield, Seedley, Manchester.
September 15, 1866.
Rickards, Charles Hilditch, esq., Seymour Grove, Old Trafford,
Manchester. Jan. 11, 1858.
Ridgway, Joseph, esq., Wallsuches, Bolton. January 10, 1842.
Riley, John, esq., Oldham. November 26, 1863.
Ross, Malcolm, esq., Old Hall, Smedley, Manchester. Feb. 24, 1868.
April 13,
Ross, William, esq., Leaf Square, Pendleton, Manchester. April
14, 1856.
Rothwell, Richard Rainshaw, esq., Sharples Hall, Bolton. Feb-
ruary 2, 1867.
Royds, Albert Hudson, esq., Browne Hill, Rochdale. Jan. 3, 1853.
Royds, Clement Molyneux, esq., Greenhill, Rochdale. September
29, 1866. -
Rowland, John, esq., Thorncliffe, Royton, near Oldham. April 15,
I867.
Rowley, Alexander Butler, esq., Hurst, Ashton-under-Lyne. May
28, 1865.
Royle, Peter, esq., M.D., 27 Lever Street, Manchester, and Vernon
Lodge, Sale. August 29, 1864.
Schofield, Andrew, esq., Woodfield, Oldham. February 24, 1845.
Schofield, William Whitworth, esq., Buckley, Rochdale. January
18, 1859.
Shaw, Samuel, esq., Breeze Hill, Micklehurst, Mossley, Manches-
ter, February 7, 1867.
Sidebotham, Edward Lowe, esq., 19, Lansdowne Place, Cheltenham.
January 1, 1844.
Sidebotham, John, esq., Kingston, Hyde. October 26, 1846.
Sidebottom, Thomas Hadfield, esq. Stalybridge. Jan. 10, 1859.
Sidebottom, Alfred Kershaw, esq., Whitegates, Mottram, Cheshire.
October 22, 1866.
Sidebottom, James, esq., Heyrod House, Stalybridge.
I867.
Sidebottom, James, esq., Mersey Bank, Heaton Norris, Manchester.
February 25, 1867.
Sidebottom, William, esq., Etherow House, Mottram, Cheshire.
April 11, 1842.
Slack, John, esq., Bowden Hall, Chapel-en-le-Frith. May 29, 1838.
Smith, Fereday, esq., Parkfield, Swinton, Manchester. July 5, 1858.
Smith, John Benjamin, esq., M.P., Manchester. Feb. 29, 1836.
Stern, Sigismond James, esq., Rusholme House, Manchester. May
28, 1865.
Stewart, Charles Augustus, esq., Whalley House, Whalley Range,
Manchester. April 15, 1867.
Stott, Samuel, esq., Quarry Hill, Rochdale.
April 15,
October 23, 1865.
Wilson, Matthew, esq., Eshton Hall, Skipton.
Sutcliffe, John Crossley, esq., Lee, Hebden Bridge. May 27, 1850.
Sutcliffe, Thomas, Clerk, Royds House, Heptonstall, Yorkshire, vić
Manchester. August 29, 1864.
Sykes, Edmund Howard, esq., Edgeley, Stockport. April 15, 1867.
Tatton, Thomas William, esq., Wythenshawe, Northenden, Man-
chester. January 1, 1862.
Taylor, James, esq., Todmorden Hall, Todmorden.
Taylor, John, esq., Brookdale, Newton Heath, Manchester.
tober 22, 1866.
Thomson, Edmund, esq., 85 Mosley Street, Manchester. April
15, 1861. g
Tootal, Edward, esq., The Weaste, Eccles, Manchester.
1845.
Trafford, Henry Leigh, esq., Manchester. July 7, 1845.
Trafford, Sir Humphrey de, Baronet, Trafford Park, Manchester.
January 6, 1845.
Tweedale, John, esq., Beightous, Rochdale.
Tweedale, Robert Leach, esq., Healey Hill, Rochdale.
23, 1865. -
Walker, Charles James Stanley, esq., City Police Court, Bridge
Street, Manchester. October 22, 1838.
Walker, Joseph, esq., Broadlands, Torquay. July 4, 1828.
Walker, John Scholes, esq., Lunefold House, Bury. May 28, 1865.
Walker, Oliver Ormerod, esq., Chesham, Bury. October 24, 1853.
Walker, Oliver Ormerod, junior, esq., Gorsey Brow, near Bury,
Lancashire. April 8, 1863.
Walmsley, Edward, esq., Heaton Norris, Stockport. July 9, 1861.
Wanklyn, James Hibbert, esq., Manchester. January 10, 1842.
Watkins, Edward William, esq., M.P., Rosehill, Northender, near
Manchester. October 24, 1864.
Whitaker, Robert, esq., Lower House, Royton, Oldham. July
10, 1861.
Whitehead, Francis Frederick, esq., Beech Hill, Saddleworth.
April 15, 1867.
Whitehead, James Heywood, esq., Southside, Manchester. August
29, 1853.
Whitehead, John Blakey, esq., Rawtenstall, near Manchester.
April 8, 1863.
Whitelock, Richard, Clerk, Saddleworth. January 9, 1843.
Whittam, yuan Barton, esq., Birch House, Farnworth. April
15, 1867.
Whittaker, John, esq., Hurst, Ashton-under-Lyne.
1846.
Whitworth, Benjamin, esq., M.P., Manchester.
April 9, 1838.
Oc-
July 7,
October 23, 1865.
October
December 14,
May 22, 1862.
July 16, 1827.
Wimpenny, Abel Buckley, esq., Fairfield, Manchester, May 26,
1851.
Withington, George Richard, esq. (Captain), Torquay, Devon.
August 25, 1858.
Wood, John, esq., Arden, Stockport. September 15, 1866.
Wood, William Rayner, esq., Singleton Lodge, Manchester.
uary 6, 1845.
Woods, Thomas, esq., Kersal Lodge,
February 27, 1860.
Worrall, James, esq., Whalley Range, Manchester. April 11, 1864.
Worthington, George Henry, esq., Hollinwood, Manchester. Oc-
tober 25, 1858.
Worthington, Nathan, esq., Hollinwood, near Manchester. October
26, 1846.
Wright, Edward Abbott, esq., Castle Park, Frodsham, Cheshire.
July 5, 1852.
Wrigley, Thomas, esq., Timberhurst, Bury. January 9, 1854.
Wright, William Wright Worthington, esq., Flixton House, Man-
chester. November 27, 1854.
Yates, Joseph St. John, esq., Wellbank, Sandbach. July 8, 1850.
Jan-
Broughton, Manchester.
PUBLIC OFFICERS FOR THE COUNTY PALATINE.
High Sheriff–Le Gendre Nicholas Starkie, esq., Huntroyd Hall, Padiham.
Lord Lieutenant—Earl of Sefton, Croxteth, Liverpool.
Constable of Lancaster Castle—Thomas Greene, esq., Whittington Hall, Burton, Westmorland.
Chancellor of the Duchy–Right Hon. Col. John Wilson Patten, M.P., Waterloo Bridge, London, W.C.
Clerk of the Council and Registrar of the Duchy—Joseph Henry Gooch, esq., Waterloo Bridge, London.
Under Sheriff.
Arthur Ingram Robinson, gentleman, Blackburn.
Deputy Under Sheriffs and Clerks to the Lieutenancy—Messrs. Wilson and Deacon, Preston.
Registrar of the Chancery—Peter Catterall, esq., Preston.
Seal Keeper and Clerk of the Crown—T. Starkie Shuttleworth, gentleman, Preston.
JDeputy Prothomotary—Edmund Robert Harris, gentleman, Preston.
Deputy Clerks of the Peace—Messrs. Birchall, Wilson, and Hulton, Preston.
4 O
650 - The pistory of Lancashire—autºma.
County Treasurer—Henry Alison, esq., Preston.
Chief Constable—Lieut.-Colonel Bruce, Preston.
Assistant Chief Constable—Captain Palmes, R.N., Old Trafford, Manchester.
County Auditor—Mr. H. W. Johnston, Preston.
County Lunatic Asylum (Lancaster)—Mr. John Broadhurst, Superintendent.
Law Clerk to Visitors—John Sharp, gentleman, Lancaster.
Treasurer to Visitors—Mr. John Walker, Lancaster.
County Lumatic Asylum (Prestwich)—Mr. Joseph Holland, Superintendent.
Law Clerk to Visitors—Frederick C. Hulton, gentleman, Salford.
Treasurer and Clerk to Visitors—Mr. S. Ridley Smith, Prestwich.
County Lumatic Asylum (Rainhill)—T. L. Rogers, esq., M.D., Liverpool, Superintendent.
Law Clerk to Visitors—Timpron Martin, gentleman, Liverpool.
Clerk and Steward—Mr. R. C. Lewis, Rainhill.
Feeper of Her Majesty's Castle, Lancaster—Mr. Harrington Wellford Parr, Lancaster. 's
Reepers of Houses of Correction—Preston, Mr. J. C. King. Salford, Captain Mitchell. Kirkdale, Captain E. G. H. H. Gibbs.
County Coroners—Blackburn, Mr. H. U. Hargreaves. Manchester, Mr. W. S. Rutter. Rochdale, Mr. T. F. Dearden. Southport,
Mr. C. E. Driffield. Preston, Mr. M. Myres. Lancaster, Mr. L. Holden.
Coroner for City of Manchester—Mr. Edward Herford.
Mr. W. Butler, Coroner for the Liberty and Manor of Furness, Dalton-in-Furness. Mr. J. Walker, Coroner for the Manor of
Walton-le-Dale, Mr. J. Galloway, Coroner for the Manor of Prescot. Mr. J. F. Marsh Coroner for the Manor of Hale.
|BRIDGEMASTERS AND SURVEYORS.
Lonsdale Hundred—Mr. Philip Hartley, Ulverston. Leyland Hundred—Mr. William Radford, Manchester.
Ditto Mr. Edward Graham Paley, Lancaster. Salford ditto Mr. William Radford, Manchester.
Amounderness Hundred—Mr. William Radford, Manchester. West Derby ditto Mr. George Holme, 34 Moorfields, Liverpool.
Blackburn ditto Mr, Thomas Chaffer, Burnley. Ditto County Bridges—Mr. William Radford, Manchester.
THE COUNTY COURTS.
On the 1st January 1868, the statute passed on the 20th of August 1867 to amend the acts relating to
the jurisdiction of the County Courts came into force, materially diminishing the business in the Common
Law Courts. A plaint may now be entered in the County Court within the district of which the defendant
or one of the defendants shall dwell or carry on his business at the time of bringing the action or suit, or it
may be entered by leave of the Judge or Registrar in the County Court within the district in which the
defendant or one of the defendants dwelt or carried on business at any time within six months next before
the time of action or suit brought, or with the like leave in the County Court in the district of which the
cause of action or suit wholly or in part arose. In actions for goods, etc., the plaintiff may issue a summons,
and if the defendant shall not file notice of his intention to defend, judgment may be entered up. Proceed-
ings commenced in a metropolitan County Court, the same are to be continued therein if the defendant
resides in the district of one of such Courts. No action is to be maintainable in any court for beer, etc.,
consumed on the premises. Costs are not to be recoverable in the Superior Courts where less than £20 in
contract or £10 in tort is recovered, and the act authorising the trial of issues before the Sheriff, where the
sum sought to be recovered does not exceed £20, is repealed. In actions commenced in the Superior
Courts, where the sum does not exceed £50, the Judge may remit the same to a County Court, and pro-
ceedings in equity in the Court of Chancery, which might have been commenced in the County Courts, may
be remitted to them, and matters to £500 for specific performance, etc., to be dealt with in a similar manner.
Actions for malicious prosecution, assault, false imprisonment, seduction, etc., in the Superior Courts, to be
remitted to the County Courts; and in ejectments, or where the property does not exceed £20 a-year, are to
be heard in the County Courts. There are provisions as to costs, etc., and Registrars may act as high bailiffs.
In equity proceedings, where the trust money or stock does not exceed £500, to be transferred to the County
Courts, and invested in Post-Office Savings' Banks. No action or suit is to be commenced in any hundred
or inferior Court, and persons holding office affected to be entitled to compensation. A high bailiff may now
interplead. **
POOR-RATES AND POOR RELIEF IN 1865–6.
The yearly parliamentary return, as to the rates for the relief of the poor, showing the moneys raised and
expended for the parochial year ending March 25, 1866, formed the subject of an elaborate article in the
Manchester Guardian, from which we take the following extracts:–In the year ending Lady Day, 1866, of
£2,997,642 expended out of the poor-rates in the United Kingdom, £2,209,184 was for county rates, borough-
rates, or police-rates, matters wholly unconnected with the relief of the poor, but all collected under the name
Qſìje #istorm of £antagiſtre—3bbemba. 651
of poor-rates. For the purposes of poor-law administration and relief, England and Wales are parcelled into
eleven great divisions, Cheshire and Lancashire together forming “the north-western division.” In this
division in the year named, the total amount expended in poor relief was £748,062, of which amount
#156,547 was for in-maintenance, and £309,010 for out-door relief. In other words, taking the population
of the division in 1861 as 2,935,540, the rate per head expended in poor relief was 5s. 1.2d., being 21
per cent for in-maintenance, and 41.3 per cent for out-door relief, or a ratio of only 2 to 1. The amount is
considerably higher per head than in Yorkshire, where it is only 4s. 7d. per head.
SUMS LEVIED AS POOR-RATES, THE TOTAL SUMS EXPENDED, AND THE AMOUNT THEREOF APPLIED TO THE
RELIEF OF THE POOR IN EACH OF THE CHESHIRE AND LANCASHIRE UNIONS, YEAR ENDED
TAT)Y-DAY. 1866 :—
CHESHIRE.
S levied Wºº S levied Wºº
Ul]]}S 16V16 Total Sums expen € UIſlS 16V16 Total Sums expenſ €C
aS Relief
Poor rates. expended. tºº Poºrates. expended. * *
Only. Only.
f f #3 f f £
Stockport 24,806 28,017 15,859 Nantwich & 15,070 17,374 9,628
Macclesfield 21,169 23,764 14,964 Great Boughton . 13,875 11,791 5,510
Altrincham . 15,917 20,851 10,309 Chester 13,447 13,748 8,712
Runcorn 16,086 16,019 8,524 Hawarden 4,478 4,846 2,638
Northwich . 15,960 || 17,153 9,070 Wirrall 8,927 9,770 3,985
Congleton 12,862 14,462 7,470 Birkenhead . 20,736 24,554 19,196
LANCASHIRE.
S levied - Wºº, * S levied W. *
Ull]].S LeV16 Total Sums expen € ums, €Vle Total Sums º €
Poorates. expended. ſº O Poorates. expended. tºº
Only. Only.
:6 #3 :É :6 :6 f
Liverpool 170,796 156,576. 137,766 Prestwich . - 12,955 16,830 6,091
West Derby 42,678 53,268 35,406 Ashton-under-Lyne 30,767 28,332 19,555
Toxteth Park 26,059 25,850 23,285 Oldham . º 29,560 30,675 20,805
Prescot 26,002 26,537 12,412 Rochdale 32,129 27,916 20,284
Ormskirk 20, 193 20,287 7,042 Haslingden . 16,080 15,731 10,288
Wigan 29,824 32,595 || 21,616 Burnley 22,655 | 18,899 || 13,284
:Warrington. 18,359 20,570 11,727 Clitheroe 6,769 8,062 5,115
Leigh . 10,347 || 10,891 6,819 Blackburn 39,711 || 39,943 28,833
& Bolton 39,825 42,749 25,405 Chorley 16,046 15,882 7,834
#Bury . º 4- 34,113 34,656 22,801 Preston 56,468 48,937 25,505
Barton-upon-Irwell 11,144 12,788 7,244 Fylde . 8,534 9,404 5,400
Chorlton e 70,977 | 81,446 || 43,286 Garstang 8,678 7,516 3,279
Salford 37,478 44,445 22,801 Lancaster 7,806 7,851 4,840
Manchester . 116,989 || 138,463 72,607 Ulverston 12,067 13,596 7,812



The first column contains the sums actually raised during the year, from the ratepayers; it is short of
the total sum available for the guardians and overseers, to the extent of outstanding balances in their favour,
and of certain receipts, like the Treasury repayments on account of salaries in aid of rates. This is the
reason why, in several unions, the total expenditure is much larger than the sum levied. The annual return
is a statistical account which does not recognise balances; but the sum received in aid of poor-rates for the
whole division was £48,283.
Upwards of 65 per cent of the levy in Cheshire and Lancashire was spent on relief to the poor, that is
to say, £748,062, leaving the disbursements for every other purpose to which the rate is applicable at
£450,364. The parochial year 1860-1 was the last of light poor-rates in the cotton-manufacturing districts.
The American civil War had neither affected operatives nor ratepayers. Let us see what approach the last
account has made to the prosperous figures of that year, by a direct comparison of fifteen of the largest and
most distressed unions.
652 (ſiſt #igturn of 3Lancashire—%ibbemba.
RELIEF TO THE POOR IN THE UNDER-MENTIONED UNIONS IN 1861 AND 1866 COMPARED :—



• Relief to the Poor #. º: Relief to the Poor fl. º:
in 1861. in 1866. 1866. in 1861. in 1866. 1866.
£ £ £ f :6 f
Stockport 10,737 15,859 5,122 Ashton-under-Lyne 10,876 19,551 8,675
Wigan 16,044 21,616 5,572 Oldham - 11,141 20,805 9,664
Bolton 18,605 25,405 6,800 Rochdale 11,801 20,275 8,484
Bury . 14,369 22,801 8,432 Haslingden . 6,059 || 10,288 4,229
Chorlton 20,651 43,287 22,636 Burnley 9,240 13,284 4,044
Salford 14,536 22,802 8,266 Blackburn 13,176 28,833 15,657
Manchester. 60,738 72,608 11,870 Preston 16,755 25,505 8,750
Prestwich 4,099 6,092 1,993
Total fifteen unions 238,827 | 369,021 | 130,194
These unions, though much less burdened than they have been for the last two or three years, surpass
the expense of relief as it stood in 1860-1, by £130,194, or 55 per cent. Manchester appears to be getting
back rapidly to its former state. The relief in 1865-6 was barely 20 per cent beyond the amount of 1861;
while the unions of Chorlton, Ashton-under-Lyne, Oldham, and Blackburn show, upon the average, 100
per cent increase. We cannot take the figures of 1866 as the exact measure of the contemporaneous
pauperism, for we presume those amounts, in some, if not in all cases, include the repayments for loans
borrowed during the famine, and expended in the immediate relief of the poor at that time.
THE CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES OF TANCASHIRE,
The first co-operative society in England, well named “The Equitable Pioneer Co-operative Society of
Rochdale,” was established about twenty years ago, and has been, indeed, the precursor and parent of nearly a
thousand of these useful societies. At the close of 1865, according to the statement of Mr. Tidd Pratt, the
registrar of friendly societies, 752 co-operative societies were in existence in England and Wales. In 1866
76 of these were dissolved, but 264 new societies had their rules certified, making a total of 940. A parlia-
mentary return of 1867 gives particulars as to 436 of these societies, a large number having neglected to
send to the registrar their annual accounts. This return shows, that on 31st December 1866 there were, in
these 436 societies, 173,432 members, and that the money “turned over” in the course of the year was
between four and five million pounds sterling. Lancashire, “the birth-place and genial home of co-operation,”
is shown by this return to have 144 of these societies, more or less flourishing in condition. The following
table includes 40 of the Lancashire Societies, which have each 300 or more members:—
THE PRINCIPAL CO-OPERATIVE SOCIETIES OF LANCASHIRE, AS THEY STOOD ON THE 31ST DECEMBER 1866.


º * | Goods | Goods | Profits
Registered Office of Of bough Sold realised
Society. Mº, i. # hºs. ; ;
f £ £ £
Accrington . 1,510 || 35,138 || 38,297 || 3,544
Ashton-under-Lyne 416 7,387 7,763 703
Bacup . . . . 2,239 || 72,684 85,002 || 10,722
Blackburn, York Street 338 9,705 || 10,338 497
Blakeymoor º 445 | 12,406 || 12,987 835
Blackley & • 330 8,309 || 9,133 693
Bolton, Bridge Street 1,718 29,399 || 31,530 2,816
Brickfield, near Rochdale 411 || 11,683 13,476 1,632
Bury, Market Street . 4,100 | 117,395 || 135,175 16, 191
Chorley, Market Place 969 20,050 24, 153 1,425
Dalton-in-Furness 428 8,373 || 9,253 799
Over Darwen 1,089 || 34,667 || 37,586 2,678
Eccles 762 17,044 18,688 1,970
Healey 30| 8,259 9,003 1,124
Failsworth 686 15,536 | 16,615 1,208
Great Harwood . 318 5,576 6,387 783
Haslingden 452 9,586 11,211 1,931
Heywood . 858 28,240 || 31,607 3,725
Hindley . 473 || 12,578 || 13,547 | 1,195
Whitworth º e 520 | 15,310 17,231 2,200
Hulme, Medlock Street | 1,710 || 32,642 38,505 3,576
Lancaster, New Street 919 17,263 | 19,504 1,995
* Number | Goods Goods ProfitS
Registered Office of of Cy reali
Society. Mº, º # ñº | *;
£ £ £ f
Littleborough º 548 || 19,044 21,032 2,353
Manchester, Dantzic St.
(North of England
Society) . . 31,030 174,800 175,044 2,806
Manchester, Downing St. 2,585 || 48,182 55,197 || 3,844
Middleton & 581 | 13,464 15,859 1,552
Milnrow º 757 2,305 || 26,042 3,430
Mossley . º - 1,097 || 33,910 || 37,151 3,541
Oldham, Greenacres Hill 1,406 | 68,904 || 78,671 9,272
Oldham, King Street 2,260 || 78,665 | 87,614 | 11,376
Prestwich . - 502 8,419 9,368 1,273
Radcliffe 605 || 11,775 | 12,896 1,389
Ramsbottom . - 979 21,169 || 23,885 3,477
Rawtenstall, Lord Street 739 18,110 || 21,579 3,051
Rawtenstall, Cawl Ter. 524 || 13,924 15,514 2,054
Rochdale (Equitable
Pioneers) . - 6,246 |220,238 |249,122 || 31,931
Shaw - º - 450 | 16,995 | 18,380 1,994
Steeps, near Rochdale 312 9,141 10,188 1,074
Todmorden 485 | 16,407 | 18,551 2,052
Tunsted 350 11,977 14,290 2,205
Waterfoot 537 12,449 || 14,468
1,770
Qſìje #igforg of 3Lancashire—flutenba. 653
The selected societies mustered 73,000 members, and they sold goods in the course of the year
amounting to £1,500,000, and a fraction over ; hence, under the last-named phase, they equalled one-third of
the aggregate co-operative sales of the kingdom. The accounts are usually audited once a quarter by members,
and occasionally by non-members. In the matter of realised profits, the last column of the statement is probably
an unreliable exponent for comparing one society with another, and for this reason, that the price fixed on
articles over prime cost, we believe, varies. The stores may be distributed at a small advance to cover
working expenses and depreciation; or they may be sold at the market-price of the place, and the members
receive their advantage periodically in the shape of the dividends.
The profits are usually applied to interest on shares, dividends to members, occasionally to non-
members, depreciation of stock, reserve fund, and not unfrequently to the payment of an item termed
“educational,” which, we believe, is not meant for Schooling in the ordinary sense, but for the maintenance
and supply of a reading-room—a very pleasing adjunct to some of these undertakings. The sums applied to
the purpose are generally moderate, varying between £20 and £50. But in one or two instances they are
much larger. The Oldham Society (King Street) devoted, in 1866, £217 to the “educational fund,” and the
Rochdale Equitable Pioneers no less than £681 to “education.” The Rawtenstall Society gave out of their
profits £53 for “library and newsroom.”
LOCAL COURTS.—A parliamentary return gives an account of thirty English local courts of civil jurisdic-
tion, and shows that their salaries and expenses amounted to £13,508 in the financial year 1865-6. In the
Liverpool Court of Passage the court fees are paid to the borough fund, and the expense of maintaining
the court is paid out of that fund ; the expenses amounted to £1200 in the year, including the assessor's
salary of £500. The expenses of the Manchester Court of Record for the trial of civil actions was £1706
in the year, which was paid out of fees; the salary of the recorder and judge is £300. The fees received at
the Salford (hundred) Court of Record in the year amounted to £1130; the expenses, £476, were first
paid, and the balance of £654 was divided into three parts—one for the steward of the hundred, one for the
judge, and one for the registrar and deputy steward.
COUNTY OF LANCASTER RIFLE ASSOCIATION.—The eighth annual meeting of the Association was held
January 13, 1868, at the Town Hall, Liverpool; Mr. Charles Turner, M.P., presiding.—Captain Lake
(honorary secretary) read the report, which stated that the affairs of the year had been very satsifactory. In
addition to the reserve of £1500 invested in India Stock, there was a balance in the bank in favour of the
Association of £641 : 13s. The annual prize-meeting held at Altcar in Whit-Week 1867 was very successful.
The sum offered to competition amounted to £1024.
MAYORS FOR 1867–68.-On the 9th November 1867, the following gentlemen were elected to the
Mayoralty of the city of Manchester and the boroughs named within the hundred of Salford:—
Manchester—Robert Neill, 2d year.
Salford—Henry Davis Pochin, 2d year.
Ashton-under-Lyme—Henry Thomas Darnton.
Bolton–James Barlow.
Oldham—John Robinson.
Rochdale—Charles Whitaker.
Stalybridge—James Kirk.
THE OLD DEANERY OF MANCHESTER.—In the 12th century, the Rural Deanery of Manchester com-
prehended the parishes of Manchester, Bolton-le-Moors, Bury, Eccles, Middleton, Radcliffe, Rochdale, and
Prestwich ; and at a later period were added Ashton-under-Lyne, Flixton, and Dean, which had obtained
the rank of parishes. This ancient ecclesiastical district is now divided into the modern rural deaneries of
Manchester, Ashton-under-Lyne, Bolton, and Rochdale ; and though, as Fuller quaintly says, “sufficiently
thick of people, is exceedingly thin of parishes,”—there being only (till very recently) eleven parishes in the
whole hundred of Salford."
RURAL DEANERIES IN THE DIOCESE OF MANCHESTER,
The Rural Deaneries in this diocese having been re-arranged in accordance with a plan settled by the
Bishop and Rural Deans, at a meeting held in November 1867, we give a corrected list of the Rural
Deaneries, with the number of churches within each —”
1 Note of Rev. Canon Raines in Wotitia, Cestriensis. compiled annual, the Manchester Diocesan and Church, Calendar
* We derive this information from that very useful and well- and Almanac for 1868.
654
Çür #istory of 3Lancaäijirº–3bbemba.
15. Amounderness (The Fylde District) 18 churches.
(Preston, etc.) 20 churches.
(Lancaster, etc.) 20 churches.
(Garstang, etc.) 11 churches.
16.
17.
18.
ARCHDEACONRY OF MANCHESTER.
Archdeacon—Venerable Richard Durnford (1867).
Do.
Do.
Do.
DO.
T)0.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
Do.
DEANERY OF
Blackburn (Blackburn, etc.) 25 churches.
(Accrington, etc.) 17 churches.
(Whalley, etc.) 25 churches.
. Leyland, 28 churches.
. Manchester (Bolton, Dean, etc.)
ARCHDEACONRY OF LANCASTER.
Archdeacon—Office Wacant.
Do.
Do.
Do.
19. Tunstal, 18 churches.
DEANERY OF
31 churches and one Peel district.
(Ashton and Oldham) 25 churches.
(Rochdale and Saddleworth) 24 churches, 4 districts.
(Middleton, etc.) 11 churches.
(Bury, Prestwich, etc.) 21 churches.
(Eccles and Leigh) 21 churches.
(City and North-East) 21 churches.
(Chorlton, Hulme, etc.) 26 churches.
(Manchester South) 20 churches.
(Central Manchester, Salford, etc.) 13 churches.
The jurisdiction of the bishop extends over the two archdeaconries of Manchester and Lancaster, and
over the five deaneries of Amounderness, Blackburn, Leyland, Manchester, and Tunstal.
the diocese is 1,667,720 ; its area 845,904 statute acres.
curates, and 301,536 church-sittings.
The population of
There are 19 rural deaneries, 393 benefices, 207
CONSOLIDATED CHAPELRIES IN THE DIOCESE OF MANCHESTER,
Assigned under the Acts 8 and 9 Vict, cap. 70, and 14 and 15 Wict. cap. 97, from 31st October 1863
to 31st October 1866 :—
From a Parliamentary Return, Wo. 529, Session 1867.

Parish Or District, from
Accommodation in
Church.
Date of Order in
e Popula-
Consolidated Chapelry. Whence taken. Patron. #. P Free Council.
°WS. Seats. Total.
Ashton-under-Lyne, St. Ashton, St. Michael, and Trustees 4573 || 339 || 105 || 444 June 11, 1866.
James Christ Church, and
Hurst
Bacup, St. Saviour Bacup, St. John and James Maden Holt 2350 656 || 340 996 | Feb. 3, 1866.
Christ Church
Bolton-le-Moors, St. Bolton, Christ Church Trustees 6000 || 758 || 414 || 1172 | April 9, 1866.
Paul and St. Peter
Calder Vale, St. John Garstang, St. Helen and Vicar of Garstang and W. J. 1000 320 | 320 | March 1, 1864.
the Evangelist Bleasdale Garnett alternately, first
to Vicar
Preston, St. Mark Preston, Christ Church Vicar of Preston and Patrons 5730 || 510 || 482 992 || Dec. 28, 1865.
- and St. Peter of Christ Church alter-
nately, first to Vicar
Rhodes . g . | Middleton and Prestwich] Rector of Middleton 1600 ... 430 || 430 July 28, 1864.
Waterfoot, St. James Bury, Rochdale, and | Three Trustees, and in de- || 3500 279 || 324 603 || March 12, 1866.
Newchurch fault of appointment of t
new ones, the Rector of
Bury
Qſìſe ºffigtorg of £ancashire—ºbbemba. - 655
DISTRICT CHAPELRIES,
Assigned under various Acts of Parliament, from 31st October 1863 to 31st October 1866.
Accommodation in
e g º º Church
# tº e Parish or District from * |Popula- & Date of Order in
District Chapelry. whence taken. Patron. º F Council.
PeWS. sº Total.
Blackburn, St. Thomas Blackburn, St. Mary . Present Vicar of Blackburn, 11,000 || 300 || 754 || 1054 || March 12, 1866.
and, after his avoidance,
the Bishop of Manchester
Bury, the Most Holy Bury . . . . . Rector of Bury . . . 7,000 | ... 627 | 627 | Feb. 3, 1866.
Trinity
Bury, new, St. James . Farnworth with Kearsley Earl of Bradford & º 4,000 | 193 371 564 May 9, 1866.
Edenfield . . . Bury . & ge . | Rector of Bury . tº o 3,726 493 246 | 739 || Aug. 7, 1865.
Fulwood, Christ Church Lancaster . e . | Present Vicar of Lancaster | 2,325 | 290 141 || 431 || Dec. 11, 1865.
and his successor, with
reversion to present Patron
of Lancaster and his heirs
Heywood, St. Luke . Bury . § º . . Rector of Bury . g e 9,227 | 548 530 1178 || Jan. 7, 1864.
Holcombe . tº . Bury . g { } g Do. tº gº . 2,500 ... 560 560 | Nov. 17, 1863.
Hope, St. James . . Eccles g * . | Trustees . e e s 1,000 || 395 209 || 604 || May 19, 1866.
Lever Little, St. Matthew Bolton-le-Moors . . | Vicar of Bolton-le-Moors . 3,890 276 542 | 818 May 9, 1866.
Mossley, St. George . . Ashton-under-Lyne . . Rector of Ashton-under-Lyne || 9,000 || 714 83 797 May 18, 1865.
Pendleton, St. Thomas Eccles . Vicar of Eccles . 9,051 | 813 | 407 || 1220 || Aug. 7, 1865.
Staleybridge, Old St. Ashton-under-Lyne . . Rector of Ashton-under-Lyne | 6,000 | 400 || 300 || 700 | April 7, 1864.
George
sº St. Peter . Eccles 9 . . | Vicar of Eccles . & * 6,000 | 600 | 400 | 1000 || Jan. 7, 1865.
Turnercroft, St. John | Darwen Over, Holy Mrs Jane Graham . . 4,800 500 250 || 750 | Feb. 4, 1865.
the Evangelist Trinity - -
Walton Higher, All Walton-le-Dale . . | Present Vicar of Blackburn, 2,000 || 292 || 312 604 | Feb. 4, 1865.
Saints and, on his avoidance, -
Bishop of Manchester and
- Vicar alternately
Weaste, St. Luke . Eccles * s . | Trustees . º e * 2,000 || 292 | 208 || 500 | Feb. 3, 1866.
DISTRICTs,
Constituted under the Parish of Manchester Division Act, 1850 (13 and 14 Vict. cap. 41), from 31st October
1863 to 31st October 1866.
Accºon in
& rºl- a-- Th; c.4-way l]I'Cl. • {
District. Farºon Patron. Fº Free Datºn
PeWS. Seats. Total.
Albert Memorial Church Manchester, St. George; Trustees . g g iº 9600 || 432 || 233 | 665 Jan. 7, 1865.
and Harpurhey, Christ gº
Church
Blackley, St. Andrew . Blackley, St. Peter . . . Bishop of Manchester tº 1000 | 106 | 193 || 299 || June 27, 1866.
Crumpsall Lower, St. Cheethan Hill, St. Luke; Bishop of Manchester º 1500 200 230 || 430 June 10, 1864.
Thomas and Crumpsall, St.
Mary
Gorton, St. Mark. . Gorton,St.James; Open- Rev. James Philpot during 4305 || 298 || 302 || 600 || July 26, 1866.
shaw, St. Barnabas ; his incumbency of St.
Ardwick, St. Thomas; James, Gorton, and then
and Longsight, St. the Bishop of Manchester
John -
Heaton Reddish, St. Heaton Norris, St. Trustees . g e . 6000 | 154 246 | 400 June 29, 1865.
ary Thomas
Hulme, St. Michael . Hulme, St. George . Trustees . {º e º 8964 || 300 500 | 800 Aug. 27, 1864.
Openshaw, St. Barnabas Manchester e . | Trustees . º tº º 8000 || 510 || 340 850 March 1, 1864.
DISTRICTS AND NEW PARISHES;
Constituted under the New Parishes Acts, from 31st October 1860 to 31st October 1866.
1. Balderstone, St. Mary; taken from Rochdale. Population, 5461. Endowment, É150. Patronage vested in Joshua,
Josiah, James, and John Radcliffe, esqrs. Consideration, £3500 cash towards endowment, paid to Commissioners. Order in
Council dated 7th January 1865.
2. Bolton-le-Moors, St. Mark; taken from Bolton-le-Moors, Holy Trinity. Population, 5500. Endowment, É150. Patronage
vested in the earl of Bradford, Rev. Joseph Lowe, George Piggott, and John Hick, esqrs., alternately, with the trustees of the
“Bolton Lectureship Estate.” Consideration, £1000 cash paid to commissioners, and £116 : 13:4 per annum provided out of
the revenues of the “Bolton Lectureship Estate.” Order in Council dated 27th June 1866.
656 (Tijt #istory of £antagjirt—flutenba.
SUMMARY--In the diocese of Manchester (within the period specified) there were formed seven consolidated chapelries, seventeen
district chapelries, seven districts under “the Parish of Manchester Division Act, 1850, and two districts and new parishes.
Total, thirty-three chapelries, districts, and new parishes. From the commencement of the Church-Building Commission, July 1818,
to its termination, 31st December 1856, thirty-nine districts were formed under “the Parish of Manchester Division Act, 1850, ?? and
twenty-nine districts from 1st January 1857 to 31st October 1866, under the Ecclesiastical Commission. Total, sixty-eight districts.
STATISTICAL NOTES
From the Manchester Diocesan Church Calendar for 1868.
Population of the Diocese of Manchester at the Censuses of 1851 and 1861, ascertained from the
Population Tables of 1861, and approved by the Registrar-General, December 7, 1865.
851. 1861.
Deanery of Manchester º - 981,556 1,161,260
do. Blackburn: º - 219,115 277,815
do. Leyland. e - 53,641 58,622
do. Amounderness . - 142,943 160,993
do. Tunstal . - - 9,404 9,030
Diocese of Manchester - 1,406,659 1,667,720
e §§ |* =
Consecrated and Licensed Churches and Chapels and Peel 'E § § #3 ‘s s É rº; #
Districts in the Diocese, December 21, 1867. # 3 § ## # ă ă É
3 || 3 | F | #9 |5. |3:
No. 1. Rural Deanery (Blackburn, etc.) 1 24 ... 25
2. 2 3 (Accrington, etc.) . g ... I • * * 2 || 2 || 13 ... 17
3. 2 3 (Whalley, etc.) p * . . . . 2 * | *l ... 1 || 20
DEANERY OF BLACKBURN º e 4 || 5 || 58 1 | 68
4. Rural Deanery (Chorley and Leyland) DEANERY OF II 1 | 16 28
LEYLAND . g tº - ' ' –
5 2 3 (Bolton) e g e e g g g l 2 27 I | 1 || 32
6 5 3 (Ashton and Oldham) º e s e ºr 1 ... 24 ... . ... 25
7. 2 3 (Rochdale and Saddleworth) . ... . . . . . 22 | ... | 5 || 1 || 28
8. 3 5 (Middleton, etc.) g º e s ºr a 4 ... 7 | ... . . . 1].
9 3 5 (Bury, Prestwich, etc.) i- e i s = * 5 | ... 15 1 | ... 21
10 5 3 (Eccles and Leigh) . & . . . . . . ... || 3 || 16 || 1 || 2 | 22
11. 5 3 (Manchester (city) and N. E.) . . ... 18 ... 3 | . ... 21
12. 3 2 (Chorlton and Hulme) e - * - tº 25 | ... ... ... || 2 | 27
13. 5 5 (Manchester, South) . e º * - e. l8 ... 1 ... I 20
14. 2 3 (Central Manchester and Salford) 1. I0 | ... I ... 2 | 1.4
DEANERY OF MANCHESTER te l 82 27 | 94 || 8 || 9 || 221
ARCHDEACONRY OF MANCHESTER 1 || 97 || 33 | 168 8 _10_ 317
15. Rural Deanery (The Fylde) s e º i tº s ºr 3 || 14 || 1 || 1 | 19
I6. 2 3 (Preston, etc.) I 3 16 1 | . . . . 21
I7. 5 5 (Lancaster, etc.) 2 3 | 15 | . . . . . . . . 20
18. 3 3 (Garstang, etc.) * - - * * * 2 9 ... . ... 11
DEANERY OF AMOUNDERNESS s º * - - 3 | 11 54 2 || 1 || 71
19. Rural Deanery (Tunstal, etc.) DEANERY OF TUNSTAL tº tº * 5 5 8 ... 18
ARCHDEACONRY OF LAN CASTER . TTS TTG-TE 2 || 1 | 89
TOTAL IN THE DIOCESE TTIO5TT49 || 2:30 TOTTTTT406


There are also in the diocese 110 schools and other buildings licensed for divine service.
The above tabular statement contains the following —
CHAPELS OF EASE-St. Mary, Todmorden, in Rural Deanery No. 7: St. Margaret, Prestwich, 9; St. Paul, West Leigh, 10;
Freckleton, 15; Stidd, ió.
PEEL DISTRICTS.—St. Mark, Bolton-le-Moors, in Rural Deanery, No. 5; St. Mary, Balderstone, 7; Facit, Rochdale, 7;
Falinge, 7; Newbold, 7. -
LICENSED CHURCHES.–Low Moor, in Rural Deanery No. 3; Clayton Church, 13; Calderbrook, 7 ; Brindle Heath, 10;
Chorlton-cum-Hardy New Church, 12; Urmston, 12; St. Alban, Cheetwood, 14; St. Clement, Manchester, 14; Christ
Church, Blackpool, 15.
DONATIVES.–Smithells, Rural Deanery No. 5; Ellenbrook, 10.
From the formation of the diocese in 1848 to December 30, 1867, 101 new churches have been
consecrated by Bishop Lee, providing 68,555 sittings, 36,056 of which are free. The cost of erection,
exclusive of cost of endowments and sites, has been £405,219. During the same period of time 17 new
churches have been built and consecrated in lieu of former churches, at a cost of £57 ,815, exclusive of the
Qſìje #igturn of 3Lancagüire—ºbbemba.
657
value of sites.
152 new district parishes and ecclesiastical districts have been formed.
were building in December 1867.
CHURCHES AND SITTINGS.
11 new churches

Churches. Sittings. º
Dec. 31, 1866. The Diocese contained g 393 301,536 135,207
Dec. 19, 1867. Burnley, St. Andrew, consecrated 1 558 558
Additional Sittings by alterations in Emmanuel 327 327
Church, Oswaldtwisle & * e
TOTAL, December 31, 1867 . 394 302,421 136,092
CLERGY IN THE DIOCESE, DECEMBER 16, 1866.
The Bishop * & g & I
Cathedral Clergy * g g 9
Incumbents 9 389
Licensed Curates & 214
Masters of Public Schools . 22
Chaplains of Hospitals, Asylums, etc. . 12
Her Majesty's Inspectors of Schools . 3
Secretaries of Church Societies . & 5
Unattached 15
Total . 670
NUMBER OF ORDINATIONS, AND OF PRIESTS AND DEACONS ORDAINED BY BISHOP LEE.
1848 to 1850—Ordinations . 10 Priests . I04 Deacons . 116
1851 to 1860 2 3 , 29 2 3 . 211 2 3 . 216
I861 to 1867 2 3 . 21 2 3 . 133 2 3 . I 67
Total 5 * 60 2 3 448 2 3 499
PARISH AND CITY OF MANCHESTER,
The following relate to the Parish of Manchester and its townships, to the Parliamentary and Municipal
City of Manchester, and to the Parliamentary and Municipal Borough of Salford:—

e Tea, 1 g * ll.18, UlOI).
Township. Aºn Fºllºn * Township. * Fº lº
Ardwick . 470 21,757 Harpurhey I92 827
Blackley 1,764 4,112 Heaton Norris 2,108 16,333
Eradford 279 3,523 *Haughton - 1,130 3,371
Broughton 960 9,885 Hulme 440 68,433
Burnage 658 624 Levenshulme . 605 2,095
Cheetham & sº 919 17,446 Manchester 1,480 185,410
Chorlton-cum Hardy | 1,265 739 Moss-Side 430 2,695
Chorlton-upon- ) Moston . 1,271 1,199
.* | 700 44,795 Newton . 1,585 14,907
Crumpsall 733 4,285 Openshaw 57.1 8,623
Denton . 1,647 3,335 Reddish . 1,543 1,363
Didsbury 1,527 1,829 Rusholme 956 5,380
Droylsden 1, 61 1 8,798 Salford . 1,220 37,534
Failsworth 1,064 5,713 Stretford. 3,140 8,757
Gorton 1,429 9,897 Withington 2,498 2,712
The entire (old) parish of Manchester, including the above twenty-nine townships, is stated in the
census of 1861 to have an area of 34,193 statute acres, and a population of 529,245. The municipal city of
Manchester had then a population of 338,722 ; the parliamentary city of 357,979.
The electoral returns (parliamentary) 1865-6 give the following particulars as to the parliamentary city
of Manchester –Population in 1831, 187,022 ; in 1861, 357,979; in 1866 (computed), 380,887; inha-
bited houses in 1861, 65,375 ; number of electors on the parliamentary register, £10 occupiers: in 1832-3,
6726 ; in 1865-6, 22,792; but double entries on the register (1250) make the actual number of electors
21,542, of which number, 14,916 voted at the general election in 1865. Number of working-men on the
present parliamentary register, as £10 occupiers, 5822. The parliamentary and municipal boroughs are not
4 P
658 Oſije #istorg of £ancashire—flutenba.
conterminous. A local act, entitled the Manchester Overseers Act (21 and 22 Vict, cap. 62), is in force in
the parishes [townships] of Manchester, Ardwick, Chorlton-on-Medlock, and Hulme. . Under it, owners are to
be rated for houses not exceeding £10 annual rateable value, and for houses, etc., let or sub-let in separate
apartments as store-houses. By section 13, occupiers are authorised to claim to be rated, and upon payment
of the rate due, if any, they are to be deemed as rated from the time of making the claim. The Small Tene-
ments Act appears to have been adopted in two of the nine parishes within the borough. The gross esti-
mated rental in 1856 was £1,427,600; in 1865-6, £1,676,785; increase, £249,185. The rateable value in
1856 was £1,189,086; in 1865-6, £1,398,607; increase since 1856, £209,521. The gross annual value of
all messuages, or tenements and lands, including tithe rent-charge, according to the income-tax assessment,
schedule A, is £1,589,726. The gross estimated rental of such property, accCording to the last poor-rate or
valuation-lists, is £1,578,643. The number of male occupiers
At a gross estimated rental of At a rateable value of
Under £6. i e 4. £4 and under £5, is 7,792
* †. #7 . *:::: f5 and under £6 9,737
£7 and under £8 6,599 if6 . . . . 1,252
#8 and under £9 5,875 Above £6 and under £7 5,318
£9 and under £10 36 56 £7 and under £8 3,743
5 #8 and under £9 . 5,175
Under £10, . 35,875 £9 and under £10 3,682
l ----- *
#10 and over 27,9061 |Under £10 36,699
63,781 £10 and over 20,047
56,746
In the township of Manchester, there are 211 houses let out in distinct tenements, and these are
included in the returns according to the value of the respective occupations, so far as they could be ascertained.
There are no houses of this character in the other townships in the city. The gross estimated rental is
stated to represent the full rack-rent. With the exception of the townships of Ardwick, Chorlton-on-Med-
lock, and Hulme, in which 20 per cent is deducted, a deduction of one-sixth is made from the gross estimated
rental in estimating the rateable value of houses at and under £10.
In consequence of the death of Edward James, esq., Q.C., one of the members for Manchester, the elec-
tion of one member in his place took place in November 1867. The nomination was on Monday, Nov. 25,
and the polling on Tuesday, Nov. 26 ; and the following is the official declaration of the poll:—
Jacob Bright e º - e - (L) 81 60
Alderman John Marsland Bennett . g º (C) 6420
Mitchell Henry º º - • - (L) 643
Total votes polled
15,223
There was one singular occurrence at this election. A woman tendered her vote for Mr. Bright, and
as her name was found on the register, her vote was received and recorded.
The (parliamentary) electoral returns for 1865-6 give the following particulars as to the parliamentary
borough of Salford –Population in 1831, 50,810; in 1861, 102,449 ; increase, 51,639; in 1866 (com-
puted), 112,403; increase, 61,593; inhabited houses in 1861, 19,128 ; number of electors on the parlia-
mentary register, É10 occupiers, in 1832-3, 1497; in 1865-6, 5458; but deducting the double entries on
the register (61), the actual number of electors was 5397, of whom 3706 voted at the last general election.
The number of working-men on the parliamentary register is 1806; the number of burgesses, 8751; bur-
gesses whose rates are assessed on, or compounded for, by the owner, 6028; number of burgesses on the
parliamentary register, 3477. The Small Tenements Act has been adopted in 2014 parishes. The 59
George III. cap. 12, is in force throughout the borough ; in one, the limit for rating the owners is £20, in
two £18 each, and in one É13. The gross estimated rental in 1856 was £348,841; in 1865-6, £401,707;
increase, £52,866. The rateable value in 1856 was £309,276 ; in 1862, £321,987; in 1865-6, £351,353.
The gross annual value of all messuages, or tenements and lands, including tithe rent-charge, according to the
income-tax assessment, schedule A, is £377,391. The gross estimated rental of such property, according to
* The difference between the number of male occupiers at £10
gross estimated rental, and electors on the register as £10 occupiers,
is attributable to the number of persons who have not resided, or
have not been rated, for a sufficient period.
* With reference to this large number, it is stated that in Salford
the rents are much higher than in the other towns in the manufac-
turing districts, as most of the operatives employed in the manu-
factories and warehouses reside in the Suburbs of the city, there not
being sufficient house-accommodation for them in Manchester.
Many of the better-paid class of mechanics, porters in warehouses,
and other operatives employed in Manchester, reside in Salford,
and occupy houses at rents of from 4s. 6d. a-week, which enables
them to be placed on the register. The clerk states that, in order
to make the return as accurate as possible, he employed persons to
make a house-to-house visitation of the voters on the register.
(The #istory of 3Lancashire—ºbbemba.
659
the valuation-list, is £351,460. The number of male occupiers, at a gross estimated rental of under £10, is
13,215; £10 and over, 5061 ;1 total, 18,276. At a rateable value of £4 and under £10, 9861; £10 and
over, 4270 ; total, 14,131. The gross estimated rental is stated to represent the full rack-rent. A deduc-
tion of 10 per cent is made from the gross estimated rental in estimating the rateable value of houses at £10,
and 15 per cent in the case of houses under £10.
OWENS COLLEGE, MANCHESTER,”
The late Mr. John Owens of Manchester, merchant, by his will, dated 31st May 1845, after making
various dispositions of parts of his property, directed that the residue of the moneys and trust-funds arising
from such parts of his personal estate as might be capable of being bequeathed for charitable purposes,
should be paid to the trustees for educational purposes thereinafter appointed, upon trust, to apply the
same and the annual income thereof, to carry into effect, so far as the amount of such fund would reasonably
admit, his earnest desire and general object to found within the parliamentary borough of Manchester, or
within two miles from any part of the limits thereof, an institution for providing or aiding the means of
instructing and improving young persons of the male sex (and being of an age not less than fourteen years)
in such branches of learning and science as were then, and must be thereafter, usually taught in the English
Universities, but subject to the two following fundamental and immutable rules and conditions, viz. –
First.—That the students, professors, teachers, and other officers and persons connected with the institution, should not be required
to make any declaration as to, or submit to any test whatsoever of, their religious opinions ; and that nothing should be mentioned in the
matter or mode of education or instruction in reference to any religious or theological subject which should be reasonably offensive to the
conscience of any student, or of his relations, guardians, or friends, under whose immediate care he should be.
Secondly.—That if, and as often as, the number of applicants for admission to such institution as students should be more than ade-
quate to the means of the institution, a preference should in all cases be given to the children of parents residing, or who, if dead, or the
Survivor of whom, resided when living within the limits now comprised in the parliamentary borough of Manchester, or within two miles
from any part of such limits ; and secondly, to the children of parents residing, or who, or the survivor of whom, when living, resided
within the limits comprised in the parliamentary district or division of South Lancashire ; but, subject as aforesaid, the institution shall
be open to all applicants for admission without respect to place of birth, and without distinction of rank or condition in society.
The testator appointed as his first trustees for educational purposes the several persons thereinafter designated or named, or
Such of them as should be living at his death, and should then usually reside in, or within fifty miles from, any part of the parlia-
mentary borough of Manchester, and should accept such office—viz. the persons who'should, at or next after his death, be respect-
ively the mayor of Manchester, the dean of Manchester, the representatives in Parliament of Manchester, and George Faulkner,
Samuel Alcock, William Neild, James Heywood, Alexander Kay, Samuel Fletcher, Richard Cobden, John Benjamin Smith, John
Frederic Foster, and Mark Philips, all of Manchester, esquires. • ‘
The testator died on the 29th July 1846, and the college was opened on the 12th March 1851, in the present buildings in Quay
Street and Byrom Street, Manchester, formerly a residence of the Hardmans, and last of Richard Cobden, esq., before his marriage.
At the time of the testator's death the trustees officially designated by the will were the following gentlemen—viz, the mayor
of Manchester, William Benjamin Watkins, esq.; the dean of Manchester, the Honourable and Reverend William Herbert; the
parliamentary representatives of Manchester, Mark Philips, esq., and the Right Honourable Thomas Milner Gibson, Dr. Herbert
died in May 1847; Mr. Gibson was disqualified by residence beyond the prescribed limits; Mr. Cobden and Mr. Smith accepted
the office of trustees, but afterwards, and before having acted, became disqualified by ceasing to reside within the limits. The first
trustees, therefore, who acted in the trusts were—
George Faulkner, esq., Chairman.
W. B. Watkins, esq.
Mark Philips, esq.
Samuel Alcock, esq.
William Weild, esq.
Those whose names are in italics, died before 1867, and the following are the trustees of October 1867 —
Alfred Neild, esq., chairman.
John Marsland Bennett, esq.
Robert Dukinfield Darbishire, B.A.
Rev. Nicholas William Gibson, M.A., canon of Manchester.
Murray Gladstone, esq. John Edward Taylor, esq.
Edward Hardcastle, esq., M.A. Matthew Alexander Eason Wilkinson, esq., M.D.
Mr. John P. Aston is honorary secretary to the trustees, and his firm (Messrs. J. P. Aston, Son, & Roberts) are solicitors to the
trustees. [Mr. Aston has since resigned the secretaryship, and Mr. J. Holme Nicholson has been appointed sole secretary and registrar.]
Her Majesty having, by her warrant under her sign-manual, dated 29th May 1851, authorised the principal and professors of
Owens College to issue to candidates for degrees in arts and laws, to be conferred by the University of London, certification that
such candidates have completed the required course of instruction, students of Owens College are entitled, under certain pre-
scribed conditions, to receive such certificates, admitting them, as members of an affiliated college, to the examination for the degrees
of bachelor of arts, master of arts, doctor of literature, bachelor of laws, doctor of laws, bachelor of science, and doctor of science;
and for honours, exhibitions, and scholarships conferred by the University of London.
BENFACTIONS.—During 1852 various donations, amounting to £10,000 : 10s. were contributed in various sums (from £500 to
James Heywood, esq.
Alexander Kay, esq.
Samuel Fletcher, esq.; and
John Frederic Foster, esq.
James Heald, esq.
William Henry Houldsworth, esq.,
Edward Ovens, esq. -
John Robinson, esq. £
* The explanation of the large excess of electors over the male revising barrister, however, to arrive at the amount of annual ren-
occupiers at a gross estimated rental of £10, is that under the 59
Geo. III. the rates made upon houses up to £20 are paid by the
owners, and they are rated at 3-4ths the sum which would have
been payable by the occupiers. The owners, in arriving at the gross
estimated rental, deduct the whole of the rates which would be pay-
able by the occupier were he rated ; and where the rent is paid
weekly, a further sum of 5 per cent for cost of collection. The
tal, deducts the amount of rates actually paid, and nothing more.
* This extended notice of the great Collegiate Institution of Man-
chester could not be completed in time to take its place in the local
history of the city. It is thought better to insert it in the same
volume, rather than to place it in the appendix at the end of the
work. —H.
... ººl,
*......' '
§ººl,
a V.
660 Ciſc 3:?igturg of £ancashire—ºbbemba.
£5) from 118 merchants and others, mostly connected with the city of Manchester, for the erection and fitting up of a chemical
laboratory, the formation of a library, and generally in aid of Mr. Owens's bequest. Included in this, fund was the sum of £500,
contributed by Samuel Fletcher, esq., for the foundation of the “Victoria Scholarship.” In addition was the sum of £500, given
by George Faulkner, esq., for the foundation of the “Wellington Scholarship.” In 1853 James Heywood, esq., M.P., gave £150
for the erection of a gymnasium, and to found a class in drawing. In 1854 George Faulkner, esq., gave the land and buildings
(except the chemical laboratory) now occupied for the purposes of the college. In consequence of this liberal gift, the trustees
were enabled to found the “Faulkner Professorship of Political Economy and Commercial Science.” In 1854 Mr. J. C. Harter
presented a marble bust, by Cardwell, of the late John Dalton, D.C.L., etc. In 1857 the Dalton Memorial Committee presented
£4125 for the foundation of two “Dalton Chemical Scholarships,” and one “Dalton Natural History Prize.” In 1858, Messrs.
Edward Lyon and Brothers gave a contribution of £50 to the Auxiliary Fund. In 1860 several past and present students of the
college presented (through E. C. Van Cutsem, esq.) a marble bust, by Lichfield, of the late Professor A. J. Scott, the first
principal of the college. In 1864 Mr. Richard Johnson presented a portrait, in oil, by Bradley, of the late John Dalton, D.C.L.
In 1865 Mrs. Elizabeth Shuttleworth presented £1250 for the foundation of the “ Shuttleworth Scholarship” in political economy,
in memory of her late husband, John Shuttleworth, esq. In 1865, also, the Shakespere Memorial Committee presented £1071 for
the foundation of the “Shakespere Scholarship,” in the English language and literature, in celebration of the 300th anniversary
of Shakespere's birth, in the spring of 1864. In 1866 the Cobden Memorial Committee presented £1500 in aid of the endowment
of the chair of political economy in the college, and a further sum of about £400 for the endowment of money prizes to be offered
for competition to teachers or assistant-teachers in Schools deriving support from public contributions, being students in the
evening class of political economy, if any ; or, failing such, then to other students in political economy. In 1866, also, Mrs. Dyce
presented (through Mr. William Agnew) three cartoons by her late husband, William Dyce, esq., R.A., and frescoes executed by
him in the House of Lords—subjects, Generosity, Courtesy, and Hospitality.
The following were the Officers of the College in October 1867 —
Principal—J. GOUGE GREENWOOD, B.A.
Founded. Professorships. Professors. Elected.
1851 Languages and Literature of Greece and Rome J. G. Greenwood, B.A. (Fellow of University
College, London) e - e º 1851
1851 | English Language and Literature © . Adolphus William Ward, M.A. (Fellow of St. 1866
1851 | Ancient and Modern Histor s e Peter's College, Cambridge) e -> | Ú
1851 | Mathematics . º º - • . | Thomas Barker, M.A. (Fellow of Trinity
College, Cambridge) . - e - 1865
1851 | Natural Philosophy . & º e . | William Jack, M.A. (Fellow of St. Peter's
College, Cambridge) e & - 1866
1851 | Logic, and Mental and Moral Philosophy . * * * *
I855 Poiº Economy (Faulkner Professor and | Wºº | 1866
obden Lecturer) e - º - | w
1855 Jurisprudence . - o • e . Richard Copley Christie, M.A., F.S.S. - 1855
1851 | Chemistry • e º - * . | Henry E. Roscoe, B.A., Ph.D., F.R.S. - 1857
1851 | Natural History º * - º | William Crawford Williamson, F.R.S. º 1851
1860 | Oriental Languages and Literature . º 1860
1866 || Modern Languages and Literature ! T. Theodores . g º o º & 1866
- Teacherships.
1857 | Drawing . - e e - º . | Mr. William Walker - - e - 1863
Assistant-Lecturer on Classics and Mathematics | Mr. Alfred T. Bentley, B. A. . g - 1866
Laboratory-Assistant e - e . . Mr. C. Schorlemmer, F.C.S.
Registrar, Secretary, and Libraria s . . Mr. J. Holme Nicholson.
A description of the mode of admission, of the courses of study, and the fees, etc., would involve more space than can be allowed
here." There are three terms—the Michaelmas, from October to December ; the Christmas, from January to April; and the Easter,
from April to June. The grade of “Associate of Owens College,” may be conferred on students who, after three years' study
in the college, shall have taken any degree in any university in the United Kingdom, or gained an Owens Prize, or by examination
satisfied the principal and professors of the college of their fitness for the Associateship. Associates are entitled to perpetual free
admission to all the lecture classes of the college, and to the use of the library and students’ room, on the same conditions as the
students of the college. Associates, whilst holding Owens College Scholarships, are not entitled to exemption from the payment
of class-fees. In October 1867 there were forty-six associates of Owens College.
SoHo,ARSHIPS AND PRIZEs.—I. Victoria Scholarship. Annual value £20, tenable for two years. Five Victoria scholars to
October 1867.2 II. Wellington Scholarship. Annual value £20, tenable for one year. Eight Wellington scholars to October 1867.
III. Shuttleworth Scholarship. Annual value £50, tenable for two years. One Shuttleworth scholar. IV. Shakespere Scholarship.
Annual value £40, tenable for two years. One Shakespere Scholar. W. Two Dalton Chemical Scholarships, each of the annual
value of £50, offered in alternate years, and tenable for two years. Six Dalton Chemical scholars. VI. Dalton, Mathematical
Scholarships, one senior and one junior scholar, of the annual value of £25 each, tenable for one year. Two senior and five junior
Dalton mathematical scholars. VII. Dalton Natural History Prize. Value £15. Thirteen prizemen. VIII. Cobden Prizes
(Political Economy). Two prizes of £10 and £5 offered to be competed for at the examinations in May 1868. In 1867 there were
one first and one second prizeman. The following, having no special endowment, are discretionary prizes — Victoria, Prizes, one of
#7, and a second of £3; prizemen (before division), three first and three second prizemen. Wellington Prizes of £7 and £3; four
first and two second prizemen ; the further offer of these prizes is for the present withheld. Dalton Chemical Prizes. These are
no longer offered for competition —I. A first prize of £10, and a second of £5, to students of the senior laboratory class, third
year course; eight first and four second prizemen. II. A first prize of £10, and a second of £5, to members of the junior laboratory
wr
1 The Calendar of Owens College, published yearly for the * In each case the whole number of recipients is stated from
coming session, contains ample information for all intending students, the foundation to October 1867.
(The History of 3Lancašijire—%ibbenba. 661
class, second year course; ten first and eight second prizemen. III. A first prize of £7, and a second of £3, to members of the
junior laboratory class, first year course; two prizes of £10 each in 1863, and one of £5 in 1864 were awarded in this class in
consequence of their not having been competed for in the senior class; in all, two prizemen, three first and two second prizemen.
IV. A first prize of £7, and a second of £3, for the best and second best essays, by members of the chemistry laboratory class;
eleven first and ten second prizemen.
In lieu of the Dalton chemical prizes offered yearly from 1857 to 1866, the trustees in 1866-7 substituted the Dalton Chemical
Exhibitions. I. Value £13: 13s. for third year students in the laboratory class; not competed for in 1867. II. Value £21 for
second year students in the laboratory class; one exhibitioner in 1867. III. Value £9:9s., for first year students in the laboratory
class; one exhibitioner in 1867. IV. Value £5 : 5s., for an essay on a given subject, by students in the chemistry lecture classes; not
awarded in 1867. An English Essay Prize of books, value £5, for the best essay on a given subject ; one prizeman, and one
“proxime accessit” in 1867. Early English Text Society's Prize.—This society offers yearly two sets of their publications as a prize for
the best student in the classes of the professor of English, in an examination in English before (or including) Chaucer; two prizemen.
ENTRANCE EXHIBITIONS.–I. Dalton Mathematical Exhibitions. Two of the value of £15 each, tenable for one year; to be
competed for by persons not previously students of the college, and not more than eighteen years of age ; three exhibitioners. II.
Grammar School Scholarships, three each, tenable for three years; annual amount about £13 each ; four scholars. III. Eachibitions,
Oxford Local Examinations. Two exhibitions, entitling the holder of each to enter one of the regular courses at the college,
without payment of the lecture fees, are offered to the best qualified candidates among those who win a place in the first class
at the Oxford middle-class examinations held in Manchester. The offer to be continued from session to session at the discretion of
the trustees.
The college session is from October to the following June. In the session of 1866-7, as in that of 1865-6, the number of
students was II.3. They include 29 regular and 84 occasional students. To these must be added 280 students attending the
evening classes only ; making with these an aggregate of 393 students attending the college.
The “Owens College Union ” is a society instituted in 1861, for the purpose of affording opportunities of social and intellectual
intercourse amongst former and present day and evening scholars. The ordinary meetings are held fortnightly, on Friday evenings;
coffee at six, and at seven an essay is read, or a discussion takes place on a previously adopted subject. Subscription 5s. yearly.
It has long been desired to add an engineering department to the professorships of the college. For the endowment of the
chair, and the providing of apparatus and library, not less than £10,000 was considered necessary. By the liberality and energy
of some of the leading engineers of Manchester, almost all this sum has been subscribed, and it is expected that a professorship of
engineering will be established in the college in the year 1868.
It being deemed desirable to remove the college to larger and more convenient buildings, in a better situation, an influential
meeting was held in the hall on the 1st February 1867, the mayor presiding, at which a committee was appointed to organise a
general canvass for subscriptions; and (including the contributions to the engineering fund) nearly £40,000 had been promised up
to June 1867, and it is anticipated that at no distant date the committee will be enabled to begin the execution of their task, in the
selection of a site, and of plans for the new college buildings.
MANCHESTER POLICE STATISTICS.—Since the printing of the part of this volume relating to the history of
the City of Manchester, Captain Palin, the chief constable, has issued his annual book of criminal and statistical
returns for the year ended 29th September 1867. From this we extract a few facts and figures:—The
numerical strength of the police force is now 752 men ; an addition of 78 having been granted by the
council during the year. The expenditure of the establishment amounted to £45,629 : 19 : 10, of which the
Government will disburse £10,473; 17: 9. The police force numbered at the date of the return 711 men,
there being 41 vacancies. During the year 153 members of the force resigned. The subscription to the
superannuation fund amounted to £2619, and the expenditure was £2097. Compared with the preceding
year, there is a decrease of nine in the number of fires, of £714,367 in the amount at risk, and of £147,038
in the value destroyed. The amount of property at risk not destroyed is £1,019,779. The percentage of the
damage is only 2-4 on the amount at risk, which is less by 7.4 per cent than in 1866. During the year, 1484
apprehensions were made in 7159 cases of indictable offences. The apprehensions for drunkenness were 36
per cent in 1865, 43 per cent in 1866, and 53 per cent (97.42 persons) in 1867. The police had apprehended
and released 7228 persons during the year, without taking them before the magistrates. In all 30,065 persons
passed through the hands of the police during the year. 8446 robberies had been reported to the police, in
which the estimated value of property stolen was £27,670. In 1796 cases the property stolen was either partially
or wholly recovered by the police, amounting to £4694. Of 21,353 persons proceeded against Summarily before
the magistrates, 15,840 were convicted, of whom 13,422 were fined, 346 required to find sureties, and 408
were otherwise disposed of Fifty-seven persons were convicted of aggravated assaults on women and child-
ren. The common assaults numbered 1782; the large number of 9742 persons were charged with drunken-
ness; 768 persons were convicted of offences against the licensed victuallers and beer acts; 12 cases of exposing
unsound food were dealt with, and the offenders fined ; 132 juvenile offenders were convicted ; 732 for
petty felonies; 43 for attempts to steal from the person; and no fewer than 1600 women of a certain class
were brought before the justices. The return showing the class of persons who were proceeded against,
either by indictment or summarily, shows that 563 were known thieves, 2216 unfortunate women, 81 vag-
rants, 841 suspicious characters, 2426 were habitual drunkards, 2115 were of previous good character, and
the characters of 14,586 were previously unknown. Another table gives a census of the “dangerous classes”
who were at large within the city on the 29th September, and the houses they frequent. There were 665
known thieves—who were not at that time “wanted" for any particular offence; 229 receivers of stolen
goods; 791 women of ill fame ; 268 suspected persons, and 290 vagrants and tramps. The return alleges
that there are 77 public houses, 131 beershops, and 22 coffee-shops known to be the resort of thieves
and women of bad character. The “houses of ill fame” number 338; and there are 280 tramps' lodging-
houses. Out of 19,118 persons who fell into the hands of the police, 10,672 were in work, and 8446 were
662 (ſiſt #istorm of £amcagüire—flutenba.
out of work; 13,200 were English ; 5336 were Irish ; 344 were Scotch ; whilst Wales contributed only
158. The return of the state of education states that 6696 could neither read nor write ; 11,434 could
read only ; and 938 were well educated, a description which extends over a wide range. The miscellaneous
statistics give the following facts:—The city justices issued 1014 warrants and 5985 summonses. The
amount of property stolen from premises in 8446 robberies, was £27,670, and the amount recovered was
£4858, the thieves thus having netted nearly £23,000 as their year's income. There were 127 robberies in
public-houses and 91 in beerhouses. There were 2.192 cases of robbery from the person, in 908 of which
the person robbed was drunk ; in 201 cases violence was used ; the amount stolen was £9522, and the
amount recovered £1128. The public-houses within the city number 486, of which 108 were reported for
offences; and there are 2046 beershops, of which 968 were reported ; 24 public-houses have musical enter-
tainments on Sundays, and 28 beershops offer the same sort of attraction. The value of property found in
the possession of drunken persons, and taken care of by the police until the owners were sober, was £2246.
The police force were also temporarily burdened with the care of 5580 lost children ; and they took
cognisance of 5467 offences under various local acts. Their labours include the supervision of 424 lodging-
houses, in which an average number of 2092 persons are nightly entertained. The city coroner held
inquests in 694 cases of death, of which 289 were accidental, and 325 arose from natural causes, 22 were
caused by intoxication, 18 were suicides, 9 murders, and 12 manslaughters. The returns include a statement
of the value of property in the city. The annual value is £1,763,021, and the rateable value £1,469,185;
the increase in the latter item on the year being £73,028.
BIRTHS AND DEATHS IN MANCHESTER AND SALFORD DURING 1867.
The following Table, extracted from the returns of the Registrar-General, shows the number of Births
and Deaths recorded, from December 29, 1866, to December 28, 1867, in Manchester and Salford, and the
Rate of Mortality to 1000 Persons Living:—
Rate of Mortality Rate of Mortality
Week ending Births. | Deaths. to 1000 Week ending Births. Deaths. to 1000
Persons Living. Persons Living.
January 5. . - 283 283 30 '9 July 6. . º 308 242 26'4
12. º - 323 450 38.2 13. º e 354 267 29-2
19. e • 328 326 35 °6 20. - º 290 255 27-8
26. - 308 421 46'0 27. - g 364 296 32°3
February 2, . e 365 291 31.8 August 3. . - 376 259 28-3
9. e - 343 268 29.3 I0. * º 303 251 27.4
16. º - 418 273 29 '8 I7. e º 342 239 26-1
23. - º 345 262 28'6 24. - o 348 258 28-2
March 2. e - 381 252 27.4 31. • e 385 286 3] 2
9. . & 366 282 30 '8 September 7. . g 349 328 35 '8
16. º e 322 332 36-3 14. - º 4.18 348 38'0
23. º 4. 333 316 34'5 21. s o 347 314 34'3
30. e º 442 299 32°6 28. º e 350 326 35 °6
April 6. . © 378 252 27.6 October 5. . * 278 266 29:0
13. - 380 268 29 °3 I2. º e 307 301 32 '9
20. e 264 206 22.5 19. t- o 307 280 30 '6
27, º 395 265 28'9 26. º º 363 249 27.2
May 4. . - 396 246 26.9 November 2. . . º 343 325 35' 5
- 11. º & 362 270 29'5 9. º g 313 243 26'5
18. e º 340 260 28°4 16. - e 339 278 30 °4.
25. e º 356 231 25°2 23. 4 e 336 320 34-9
June 1. º • 330 264 28:8 30. - e 307 308 33.6
8. º * 342 230 25-1 December 7. & e 311 313 34-2
15. º • 277 239 26-1 14. - e 357 3.18 34-7
22. e - 432 243 26'5 21. - º 3.19 312 34°1
29. - º 392 235 25-7 28. º º 267 274 - 29.9
MARRIAGES AT THE MANCHESTER CATHEDRAL.—During the year just closed (1867), there has been,
with a flat trade, a marked reduction in the marriages celebrated at the cathedral, the number in 1867 being
4690 against 4996 in 1866, and 4930 in 1865. There are two weeks in the year when the marriages
always exceed the average number. These are the two great holiday weeks of Whitsuntide and Christmas;
or rather, from the Saturday before Whit-Sunday to Whit-Thursday, and from three days before Christmas-
day to three days after that festival. During the Whitsun holidays the numbers are always largest on
Whit-Sunday and Whit-Thursday ; but at Christmas-tide they vary according to the day of the week on
which Christmas-day falls. The following Table shows the number of persons married in Manchester
cathedral in each month of the years 1865, 1866, and 1867:—
Qſìje 39tstory of £ancashire—ºbbemba. 663
I865. 1866. 1867. 1865. 1866. 1867.
January . 328 288 266 August . 414 412 410
February . 384 344 398 September 462 506 444
March . 292 350 364 October . 4.38 396 434
April e 386 412 352 November 418, 410 338
May * 316 572 314 December 580 556 516
June & 466 316 5] ()
July iº 446 434 344 4,930 4,996 4,690
The large number in May 1866, compared with the number in the same month in the years 1865 and
1867, is accounted for by the circumstance that the Whitsuntide holidays were in May in the year 1866,
and in June in 1865 and in 1867. The statement below shows the popular choice in the matter of a
wedding-day. It records the number of persons married in Manchester Cathedral on each day of the week
throughout the year 1867:— •
Sundays § e . 1480 Thursdays . g & 442
Mondays e º ... 1002 Fridays . w º e 102
Tuesdays * tº º 458 Saturdays & g e 672
Wednesdays . tº ſº 534
4690
Of the 102 married on the Fridays of the year, 32 were married on Good Friday, and 16 on Friday in
Whit-week, leaving only 54 persons for the other, or 50 Fridays of the year. Of course there are ecclesias-
tical reasons to account for the comparatively small number of marriages on Fridays.
THE MANCHESTER NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY'S MUSEUM.—So long ago as 1865 the trustees of
Owens College made some propositions to the Manchester Natural History Society, as to the museum of the
society being, under certain conditions, included in the college establishment. These propositions remained
for some time in abeyance: but the Natural History Society's expenses in keeping up their museum having
exceeded the income, negotiations between the two bodies resulted in the following propositions, as agreed to
by the deputation from the Natural History Society and the Owens College Extension Committee, June
3, 1867:—
“1. The Society to agree to transfer its property and collections to the trustees of the enlarged college, less the sum of £1500,
to be paid to trustees to be appointed by the council of the Literary and Philosophical Society, on conditions agreed upon. Such
payment not to be made till the final transfer is effected.
“2. The society's property to be charged with £5000, as a contribution to the new building fund.
“3. Subject to this deduction, the society's property to be invested, and the income to be applied in providing (a) efficient curator-
ships; (b) the maintenance of library, and of the collections, including the purchase of specimens. Nothing in this stipulation is
to preclude the union of the office of a curator with that of a professor or lecturer in the College, an arrangement which the Society
strongly recommend upon a proportionate contribution from college resources. -
“4. The collections, subject, to reasonable exclusion of duplicate or otherwise undesirable specimens, to be maintained in an
appropriate museum, to which shall be appended proper curators' rooms and library, workshop, and store-rooms, and a convenient
lecture-room, and room for the meeting of a natural history Society.
“5. The collections to be closed one day a-week, for cleaning, etc.; to be open, with access to the library, two days a-week,
for the purposes of study, to all persons, under proper regulations; and to be open without charge to the public for three days
a-week, with occasional evening access; the trustees having the power to close the museum for any time not exceeding six weeks in
the year.
- “6. The college to provide full courses of natural history lectures, and at least one course a-year of popular lectures open to
the public on a small payment. The natural history professors to have free use, in the college, of the museum specimens for them-
selves and friends for life, as they now enjoy.
“ 7. That the present members of the Natural History Society have free access to the museum and library for life.
“8. That the transfer be made to a commission composed of four members nominated by the council of the Natural History
Society, of two trustees of Owens College, and two members of the extension committee, with power to them to re-organise the
collections, and to make use of them and the premises for college purposes, with power also to deal with the property for the
purpose of defraying existing liabilities and current charges of maintenance by loan or mortgage ; and that, if at the expiration of
five years it shall appear that the objects of the Extension Committee cannot be attained, the property shall be disposed of by the
commissioners, as the then survivors of the present governors of the Society may direct for the promotion of natural history in
Manchester.”
In a report of the Council of the Natural History Society the council say —
“The propositions in general terms explain themselves; but the council would call especial attention to the intended endow-
ment of the Literary and Philosophical Society with a sum of £1500, which is to be dedicated to natural history purposes. The
intended museum buildings of the new college will, if so arranged as to accommodate the society's collections, cost the Extension
Committee more than £5000. As the council have learned that to rebuild and furnish new premises for themselves would in fact
cost them (should the Society undertake that charge), a much larger sum, and this without taking the cost of site into account,
they have considered it quite fair to charge the society's property with the sum named, as a contribution to the college building
fund. Even then, as will be seen, it will continue to be strictly appropriated to natural history purposes. The whole of the rest
of the society's property, after payment of its liabilities, will be expressly settled upon trusts as an endowment for the promotion
664 Oſije #istorg of £antagüire—ºbbemba.
of natural history, in the maintenance of the museum under skilled curatorship, and with an annual allowance for preservation and
augmentation. Under the circumstances above mentioned, and the impossibility of continuing the maintenance of the collections,
even on the present most inadequate scale, without a considerable monthly increase of the Society's debt to its bankers, the council
have felt it essential, both to the interests of the museum and as a part of their duty to the governors, to stipulate that the Society
shall be relieved of the charge with as little delay as possible.” i
At a special meeting of the members or governors of the Natural History Society, held at the Museum,
Peter Street, on the 13th November 1867, the following resolutions were submitted by the council, and,
after a protest from one governor, were unanimously passed :— }
“1. This meeting approves of the scheme for the disposal of the property of the society set forth in the propositions now
read, and hereby determines to adopt the same.
“2. That this meeting determines that the Manchester Natural History Society shall be dissolved ; such dissolution to take
effect immediately after the annual meeting of the society to be held in January next.
“3. That the council be instructed to confer and arrange with the Geological Society as to the disposal of the joint museum
of geology, on the dissolution of this society, and with power to cede the Society's share in the collection, if necessary. -
“4. That the council be directed and authorised to arrange and approve of the necessary deeds for completing the said disposal
of the Society's property, and the settlement of all claims and liabilities affecting the same, and the selection of the first
commissioners, and be charged with the custody of the society's property and collections until the commissioners actually take
possession ; and that the trustees of the Society be requested and directed to execute such deeds as the council may so approve.”
MANCHESTER NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY.—On Wednesday, January 29, 1868, after an existênce of
over fifty years, this society held its last annual meeting, and dissolved itself. Its last act was to hand over
its fine museum and valuable site and building to an interim commission, with a view to the ultimate
re-organisation of the museum, with a handsome endowment, as a free museum, with especial privileges for
students. The new establishment is intended to be under the charge of the trustees of the contemplated
enlargement of Owens College. The donation is a magnificent one, and a new proof of the interest with
which Manchester men are rallying round the Manchester College. The collections of fifty years will form
an admirable basis for a Manchester museum, for which the college guardianship will secure genuine
scientific development and utilisation. The mere money value of the gift is said to exceed £20,000.
THE MANCHESTER PUBLIC FREE LIBRARIES.—The report of the committee for the year ended 6th
September 1867 notices the opening in the year of a new branch lending library in Rusholme Road for the
districts of Chorlton-on-Medlock and Ardwick, and the removal of the Ancoats Branch Library and News-
room to a new and capacious building in Every Street. Only one guarantee and voucher is now required
for borrowers. Since the last report, the aggregate annual issue had advanced from 432,498 to 673,432,
being an increase of 240,934, or nearly 56 per cent. Of this total number, 193,349 volumes were given out
to readers and students in the reference department, 59,563 volumes were issued in the reading-rooms
attached to the branch libraries, and the remaining 420,520 volumes were borrowed in 388,755 times.
Numerically, this amounts to the whole of the shelves of five lending libraries being emptied, and their contents
taken home, read, and returned more than nine times in the course of one year. The borrowers, as repre-
sented by their cards, had during the year numbered 21,899. 1274 cards had either expired or were
annulled, and 20,625 remained in operation. This number, compared with 10,788, the total number of
borrowers' cards in operation at the date of the last report, showed a ratio of increase of nearly cent per cent.
The issues in the lending department had averaged one volume per week per borrower, and 1451 volumes in
1332 loans per day. From a return of the number of persons who had used the libraries and newsrooms, as
ascertained during two weeks at two different seasons of the year, when the attendance was usually greatest
and smallest respectively, it is computed that about 1,882,000 visitors, inclusive of borrowers, have availed
themselves of the institution, as compared with 1,387,530 during the preceding year ; being an increase of
494,702, or more than 35 per cent. The number of volumes and pamphlets added to the libraries during
the year was 6225, of which 2213 volumes and 60 pamphlets were acquired by purchase, and 3200 volumes
and 752 pamphlets by donation. The number of volumes bound and repaired has been 5650 ; of which 248
were for the reference, and 5402 for the lending department. There were also 2300 volumes lettered for the
Chorlton and Ardwick Branch. The number of volumes withdrawn, as worn out, has been 910, of which
543 volumes have been replaced. There is now in all the libraries a total of 83,969 volumes, of which
39,264 are in the reference library. During 9 months, from 1000 to 1500 volumes of scientific works in the
reference library have been issued monthly. Nearly one-half of the applications made at the reference library
were to read specifications of patents.
PORTICO LIBRARY AND NEWSROOM.–At the annual meeting of the proprietors of this institution, Jan.
13, 1868, the report showed the following number of books purchased, bound, and circulated during the
years 1866 and 1867, together with an abstract of the comparative circulation in those years in the
different departments of literature :—
(The #istorg of £ancashire—flutenbā. 665
1866. 1867. 1866. 1867.
5. Science and art e tº & * 548 562
Number of volumes i.º * e #. ; 6. Jurisprudence and politics tº & 100 176
3 3 2 3 . t d . . 14,497 15,530 7. Theology g & g & g 84 91
5 5 ?? . . § & i. à 5 2 8. Transactions, journals, and pamphlets 17 13
1. Hist Classifie stract of Circu "686 747 9. Periodicals . g g & , 1183 1167
2. º * and Travels . . . 849 664 10. From Mudie's and Smith's . . 1420 1646
3. Biography . e e g e 825 862
4. É.i. iºni, including fiction . 8785 9302 14,497 15,530
The treasurer's account showed an income of £1192, and an expenditure of £1158; and that the deficit
of 1866 of about £30 had been converted into a balance in favour of the institution of about £96.
SALFORD MUSEUM, LIBRARY, AND PARK.—By the committee's annual report to December 1867, it
appears there is a growing public attraction to these three sources of information, interest, and enjoyment.
During the year, there were 566,520 visitors to the museum, and 112,578 volumes have been in use in the
reference and lending libraries. An exhibition of the works of local artists was opened by the mayor on 20th
May, and continued open, free, till 7th Seeptember, during which it was visited by 289,070 persons. The
number of volumes in the reference library, 17,973; in the library of patents, 2055 ; in the lending library,
10,062 ; blue books, magazines, and newspapers (duplicates), 780. The issues of books from the reference
department have extended over 310 days, in which time 62,555 volumes have been delivered to readers, an
average of 202 volumes per day. The lending department has been open on 297 days, and 60,023 volumes
have been given out, being an average of 202 per day. The rooms specially devoted to the valuable set of
specifications of patents, indexes, and other works relating to patents and to patent law, now contain nearly
60,000 separate specifications bound in 2055 volumes. This collection of patents has been of very great
service to persons residing in the neighbourhood and surrounding districts, who are interested in the recent
inventions and improvements in machinery and new processes of manufacture necessary to the progress of
industrial science at the present day. In seven years past, there have been 47,130 volumes of patents con-
sulted in the room, and since the opening of the patent library rooms in 1854, the total number of references
(not including the references to the current MS. index kept by the librarian) have been 80,492. The total
issue of books from the lending department during the year is in excess of the issue of the two years imme-
diately preceding. Four-fifths of the works issued in the lending library were novels and works of fiction.
535 borrowers had been added during the year. In the park, the damage done by the flood of November 1866
had been repaired at a cost of about £150, and an obelisk had been placed in the centre of the lower grounds
to indicate the maximum height of the flood. In June, the marble statue, by Noble, of the late Richard
Cobden, had been inaugurated in the park. The estimated expenditure for the year was £1215, the actual
expenditure £1008. The cost of maintaining the service of the park for the year was under four-eighths of a
penny in the pound on the gross assessment of the borough.
WORKING PEOPLE's ASSOCIATION, PENDLETON.—The annual meeting of the members of the Pendleton
Working People's Association was held on Saturday evening, January 18, 1868, in the New Hall—Mr. Thomas
Briggs in the chair. Mr. W. T. Blacklock, president of the association, said the average yearly number of
members during the five years that the association had been in existence was 745. Turing the five years,
and up to August last, nearly forty thousand copies of the British Workman had been distributed amongst the
members. During the same period, £246 : 4: 10 had been paid into the penny bank, and the deposits were
increasing with such rapidity that during the past four months more than £40 had been deposited. The
temperance meetings had been attended during the last three months by an average of 180 persons, and 41
had taken the pledge ; and the Band of Hope meetings during the last two months had been attended by a
nightly average of 255. The average attendance at the Saturday evening entertainments had been 350 dur-
ing the last four months. The average attendance at the ragged school had been 410 per night for the last
three months. Other agencies were, a mothers' meeting, and a working men's Bible conversation class, held
on Sunday afternoons. The advantage of all these agencies was secured by the monthly payment of 2d.; and
from this source £237 : 13 : 8 had been derived during the five years, the total cost of carrying on the opera-
tions of the Association having been £863 : 7 : 9. Each year's deficiency had been defrayed by friends, no
balance of debt being carried over to the succeeding year. The reading and recreation rooms had been
attended by an average of 118 persons during the past four months, the subscription being ºd. On every day
but Saturday, when the charge is 1d. including the use of the gymnasium. -
MANCHESTER FREE GRAMMAR SCHOOL-At a meeting of the trustees, November 22, 1867, Mr. E. R.
Langworthy presented, as a free gift to the trust, the three houses, Nos. 15, 17, and 19, Long Millgate, adjoining
the Grammar School property, for the purpose of allowing space to be given for a chemical laboratory, and
generally to enlarge the accommodation of the school. The value of this gift is stated to be £1000. Dr.
4 Q
666 - The history of Lancashire—andemna.
W. Marshall Watts, D.S.C. in chemistry, associate of Owens College, and assistant-professor of the Glasgow
University, has been appointed master of physical science, and will commence his duties after Christmas 1867.
MANCHESTER BOTANICAL AND HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY.—The 40th annual meeting was held in the Man-
chester Town-Hall, January 30, 1868—Dr. J. Watts in the chair. The report of the council stated that the great
event of the year had been the National Horticultural Exhibition. In consequence of the unpropitious state of the
weather on the first and last two days of the exhibition, coupled with the extensive preparations necessary
for its success, the financial result was not equal to what it would have been ; but the Society had gained a
large number of annual subscribers. In consequence of the national exhibition, there was only one other
show held in the gardens within the year—namely, in autumn—which was in every respect a success. The
musical promenades were held more frequently during the last than in any previous season, owing to the fine
and genial weather during the greater part of the Summer months, and proved a great source of attraction
both to the subscribers and the public. Notwithstanding the expenditure during the year upon general and
permanent improvements—such as the laying out of the exhibition ground, the building of a refreshment-house,
the painting of the entrance and glass-houses, and other matters, which had absorbed nearly £500—there was
still a surplus of £98 on the net balance. The council had determined to hold another national exhibition
in 1868, to be opened on Friday the 29th May, and to continue open during the whole of Whit-week. The
guarantee fund had been re-established; guarantees to the amount of £2000 had already been received; and,
promises of support having already been received from some of the largest exhibitors in the kingdom, the
council anticipated that the coming show would surpass, both in quantity and quality, the one held last year.
The collections of plants had been considerably increased ; the collections of ferns and orchids were of great
rarity and value, and were in excellent condition. Votes of thanks were passed to the retiring council for
their services, and to Mr. J. Duffield, honorary auditor, who was requested to continue in office. Sir J. Watts
was elected to the office of president, in the place of the late Mr. J. A. Turner. The Rev. Canon Gibson, Mr.
J. T. Hibbert, M.P., Mr. S. J. Stern, and Mr. T. W. Tatton were elected vice-presidents; and Dr. J. Watts,
Dr. R. F. Ainsworth, Rev. W. Whitelegge, Mr. J. Manchester, Mr. E. Nicholson, Mr. Alderman Willert, Mr.
J. Broome, Mr. F. Turner, Mr. W. C. Bird, Mr. T. Baker, and Mr. Alderman Rumney, were elected the council
for the year 1868.
HULME PARK.—For the proposed public park in Hulme, 60 acres of land are to be purchased for
f24,000 from Lord Egerton, who has further agreed to give the street lands. The corporation are to contri-
bute £5200 for the making of roads and sewers, and the fencing of streets on both sides.
CHORLTON UNION STATISTICS.
In February 1868, the Chorlton Board of Guardians issued a number of printed tables of statistics
relating to the collection of rates and the expenditure of the public money in the union. From these tables
we take the main results, omitting all shillings and pence:—
1.—Poor-rates levied in the Union in the years 1861 and 1867.
Township. I861. I867. Township. 1861. 1867.
Ardwick º • . £7,318 £14,268 Levenshulme - • . 3357 £1,304
Burnage . - - . 287 505 Moss Side . - & . 633 2,810
Chorlton-cum-Hardy . ſº 323 883 Openshaw . • º . 891 2,929
Chorlton-upon-Medlock. . 18,608 28,566 Rusholme . . º e . 1,401 -
Didsbury e * . 842 1,995 Withington º •º . 778 4,011
Gorton . - • . 1,487 4,848
Hulme . - e . 22,427 21,700 £55,356 £83,825
Increase in the six years e . £28,468
2.—Amounts of Rate levied, and amount stated to be irrecoverable, in Ardwick, Chorlton-on-Medlock, and
Hulme, 1859-1867.
ARDWICK. CHORLTON-UPON-MEDLOCK. - HULME.
flºº. Irrecoverable. Fº Irrecoverable. fº. Irrecoverable.
1859 e . £8,235 :6516 £21,942 £25,200 £2,683
1860 e . 6,666 2,087 19,128 £5,909 22,041 7,646
1861 w . 7,318 1,598 18,608 592 22,427 - 3,977
1862 s . 8,903 1,586 17,653 1,961 22,930 3,847
1863 - , 16,495 2,014 38,690 1,716 36,382 3,963
1864 e . 15,730 3,987 38,074 6,559 44,476 8,926
1865 º . 12,820 4,019 27,026 2,914 30,366 6,043
1866 e . 13,233 3,216 22,243 2,288 25,272 5,226
1867 iº . 14,268 2,448 28,566 2,752 21,700 4,276
£103,671 £21,474 £231,935 £23,694 £250,798 £46,571
(The pistory of Lancashire—andemna.
667
3.—Amounts actually collected during 1861 and 1867.
1861.
Ardwick . . . £5,092
Burnage . º & 334
Chorlton-cum-Hardy . 436
Chorlton-upon-Medlock . 18,403
Didsbury . ſº 931
Gorton g . 1,205
Hulme . 18,210
Increase
1867.
£15,065
351
810
26,916
2,011
3,870
28,304
1861. 1867.
Levenshulme. . 6503 £1,320
Moss Side 542 1,793
Openshaw . 559 2,239
Rusholme . 1,701 4, 183
Withington . 825 2,188
£48,748 £89,054
£40,306 -
It appears that while the annual rateable value of the property in the union increased by 26 per cent,
the rates raised in the union increased by nearly 80 per cent.
4.—Amounts paid to the Treasurer of the Union in 1861 and 1867.
1861. 1867.
Ardwick . £2,483 £5,000
Burnage . g . 294 397
Chorlton.cum-Hardy 340 659
Chorlton-upon-Medlock 9,261 12,457
Didsbury & 748 2,178
Gorton 1, 193 3,996
Hulme 9,590 12,679
Increase
1861. I867.
Levenshulme £568 #1,209
Moss Side 425 1,803
Openshaw . 724 2,652
Rusholme . 1,354 3,501
Withington . 751 2,382
£27,736 &A8,918
£21,182
The expenditure of the guardians having been nearly doubled in the six years 1861-67, they alleged,
as a reason, that the Manchester corporation received a large share of the proceeds; and it appears from
these tables that the city treasurer received from Ardwick, in 1861, £2375 ; in 1867, £4069 : from
Chorlton-upon-Medlock, in 1861, £8542; in 1867, £8778; from Hulme, in 1861, £7633; in 1867,
#11,688: and from Openshaw, in 1861, £10; in 1867, £118: together, in 1861, £18,562; in 1867,
£24,655; or an increase in the six years of £6092. .
From receipts we come to expenditure, and especially to the administration of the rates in the relief
of the poor.
5.—Numbers relieved, Total Cost, and Average Cost per head in the years specified of the Unions of Chorlton,
Manchester, and Salford, both indoor Maintenance and outdoor Relief:-
INDOOR. OUTDOOR.
AvºNºte: Total Cost. Avengºst per Ave.Nºte: ... Total Cost. Averºst per
1859-60. | 1865-6. 1860. I866. 1859-60, 1865-6. 4.1859-60. 1865-6. 1860. 1866. 1859-60. 1865-6.
tº #9 3. :9. S. d. S. d. #9. #9. #9 £ S d. S. d.
Chorlton 581 | 1,007 || 4,601 || 9,598 || 3 0}| 3 8 Chorlton 2,399 || 4,385 5,961 15,865 | 0 111; 1 4%
Manchester | 2,395 || 2,911 || 14,011 | 20, 155 2 3 2 8 Manchester | 3,756 5,578 || 13,471 20,210 || 1 4} | 1 4%;
Salford 571 673 || 3,372 4,270 || 2 3 || 2 5} Salford. 2,107 || 2,597 5,937 || 9,763 || 1 1 || 1 5,3,


It would seem that every pauper in the Chorlton workhouses costs 1s. per head more than he would if
in one of those of Manchester, and 1s. 3d. more than in that of Salford. On an average, there were more
than 1000 indoor paupers in the Chorlton Union, so that this difference would amount to a considerable
yearly sum. While the scale of outdoor relief has been brought up to the same amount in Manchester and
Chorlton, the increase in Manchester is merely a fraction of a penny, while in Chorlton, the average cost
per head has been increased by nearly 50 per cent.
6.—Eagenditure of the Chorlton Guardians on every item in 1858 and 1867 —
Maintenance of indoor poor
Relief to outdoor poor
Salaries to union officers .
Salaries to district medical officers
Salaries to workhouse officer
Maintenance of workhouse officers
Assistant overseers and collectors
All other charges, including
printing, furniture, repair
I858.
. £5,381
8,628
1,239
635
S . t 974
351
1,268
rents, taxes,
S, etc. 2,278
1867.
£12,573
16, 164
1,688
690
2,533
1,414
906
5,405
1858. 1867.
Cost of lunatics in asylums :E768 £2,971
Extra fees to medical officers 165 122
Vaccination-fees 226 256
Registration-fees 540 670
Paid to county treasurer 2,248 6,486
Loans and interest repaid 4,263 5,967
£28,969 $57,850
MANCHESTER AND SALFORD NURSE-TRAINING INSTITUTION.—At the second annual meeting of the
supporters of this institution, in January 1868, the report for the year ended 30th September 1867, was
received. It stated that about £40 must be expended on each nurse before any return was received for her
668 The #istºrm ºf 3Lancashire—ºburmba.
services. The nurses were specially educated for three distinct departments of nursing—1. Visiting the sick
poor at their own homes; 2. Nursing hospital patients; and 3. Attending cases of sickness in private families
at a stated charge of one guinea per week. The district nurses were stationed in certain populous quarters
of the town, and worked under the supervision of ladies who had generously undertaken to defray the
expense of the nurse's lodging, and likewise supply to her, for distribution among the sick poor, such an
amount of nourishing food and such medical comforts as the necessities of the sufferers might seem to demand.
The wages of these nurses, and a fixed weekly allowance for board, had been defrayed by the institution. In
the early part of last year there were six districts—at present there were five—two in Ancoats, two in
Salford, and one in Chorlton. During the second year of operations the number of poor patients attended
by the nurses in the several districts amounted to 1549. Each of those persons was on an average visited
17 times, no fewer than 27,017 visits having been paid in the course of the year. The total amount
expended on the districts was £860, of which sum £596 devolved on the ladies, while the remaining £266
were defrayed by the institution. In the department of private nursing the continued progress of the
institution had been very marked during the past twelve months. The increasing demand for the services
of the private nurses was a sufficient guarantee that they were valued by the public. The money which
they had earned for the institution had increased from £200—the sum taken in 1866—to £400 received
during the past year. As regarded hospital nursing, much useful work had been carried out. The two nurses
who were trained for the authorities of the Royal Infirmary were still retained at that institution. The
statement of income and expenditure from the 19th of November 1864, to September 30, 1867, showed that
the subscriptions had amounted to £982, and the donations to £1215 ; other receipts made the total income
of the institution f2238. The expenses had been £2007, leaving a balance of income over expenditure of
£231, but the balance at the bankers' had been overdrawn; the assets consisting almost altogether of furniture,
linen, etc., at the home and districts, which were valued at £364. -
CoNVALESCENT HOSPITAL AT CHEADLE HALL.—This institution, established in connection with the
Manchester Royal Infirmary, was opened in the autumn of 1867, and is capable of accommodating 30
patients, who are removed thither when convalescent, or in such a condition that the purer and fresher air of
Cheshire will promote their speedy recovery. It is supported mainly by voluntary individual subscriptions.
CLINICAL HoSPITAL, PARK PLACE, YoFK STREET, CHEETHAM.—This hospital is now open. It combines
accommodation (on the ground-floor) for the large number of out-patients whose cases receive attention
in the dispensary part of the practice, with an hospital (in the upper part) in which there will be 26 beds.
All the rooms are of a light and cheerful appearance, and particular attention has been paid to the ventilation,
about 1200 cubic feet of space having been allowed for each in-patient. Adjoining the building is a vacant
piece of land, which will be used as a playground for convalescent children until the committee of management
shall be provided with sufficient funds to enable them to add a wing to the building, and thus still further to
extend the benefits of the institution. For fourteen years, for want of bed-accommodation, children could
only be dealt with in a dispensary; but now this hospital receives children suffering from severe disease as
in-patients.
THE FENIAN OUTRAGE IN THE HYDE ROAD.’—A special commission of assize was appointed to try the
prisoners, the judges being Mr. Justice Blackburn and Mr. Justice Mellor. The commission was opened on
the 26th October 1867, and the judges sat fourteen days. Five of the prisoners were put on their trial for the
murder of Sergeant Brett—viz., William O'Meara Allen (aged 20), Michael Larkin (32), William Gould alias
Michael O'Brien, Thomas Maguire, and Edward Shore. On the 1st November all these five prisoners were
found guilty, were sentenced to death, and left for execution ; but Maguire's case awakened general sympathy
in the universal belief that it was one of mistaken identity, and he received Her Majesty's pardon, and was
reinstated in the position he had previously held in the Royal Marines. Shore was reprieved a few days
before the date of execution ; the other three–Allen, Gould alias O'Brien, and Larkin—were executed
together on the morning of Saturday, November 23, on a gallows erected in New Bailey Street, Salford, just
outside the wall of the prison, and their bodies were afterwards buried within the prison precincts. Twenty-
six other prisoners were arraigned at the same special commission for participation in the riot during which
the murder occurred ; the case for the crown broke down against nineteen, and seven were found guilty and
sentenced to various terms of penal servitude. Shore's sentence was subsequently commuted to penal
servitude for life.
MANCHESTER RAINFALL IN 1867.-The following is from a paper on the rainfall at Old Trafford,
Manchester, during the year 1867, by Mr. G. V. Vernon —The rainfall for 1867 was 0.858 inches below
* For a notice of this outrage, see page 362 Supra.
(The #t3turn of £antagiſtre—ºbbemba, 669
the average of the last 74 years, and 8:590 below the fall for 1866. The fall occurred on 188 days in 1867,
as against 214 days in 1866. During the first three months of the year the fall somewhat exceeded the
average. In the second three months the fall was above the average; but this was caused by a very wet
April, the fall in this month being more than double the average, whilst in the other two months the fall
was below the average, especially in June. In the hree months ending September the fall was considerably
below the average. July was wet, but August and September were below the average, August not having
one-half the usual fall. In the last three months of the year the fall was slightly below the average.
October exceeded the average slightly, November was considerably below the average, and not half the
amount that fell in November 1866, whilst December exceeded the average. The daily falls exceeding half
an inch were:— -
1867. Inches. 1867. Inches.
January 7 e e º 0 °500 October 27 . * * 0-750
April 20 * g tº 0-630 November 14 e * 0 °510
July 15 g ſe ſº 0.770 November 30 & e j ‘500
July 16 º * ſº 1 110 December 1 . e * 0 °500
September 1 . & e 0 °620 December 15 & º O'800
October 7 ſº e º ()' 520 December 20 & * 0 °540
In 1867 we had only two days upon which the daily amount exceeded an inch, whilst in 1866 the daily
fall exceeded an inch upon five days, and upon one day—viz, 28th July 1866, it was 1985 inch. It would
seem that in our district we can safely reckon upon having rain on an average of about 180 days in the
year, or that rain falls on about half the days of the year. Of course this includes every day upon which a
measurable amount of rain falls; and it is only right that every day on which rain falls, and can be
measured, ought to be included, notwithstanding Mr. Symons's limiting the amount to days only on which
the fall reaches 0:010 inch. In 1867 there were no fewer than 16 days on which rain fell less than 0-010
inch in amount, and to leave these out must vitiate the result. Moreover, in places where the rainfall is
much less than here, there will probably be a much greater number of days upon which a daily amount of
0-010 inch falls. Every day upon which a measurable amount of rain falls ought to be given ; and if for
any other purpose a limit in amount is wanted, it ought to be tabulated separately.
STRETFORD.—This township, in January 1868, adopted the Local Government Act, by 975 to 618 votes,
OLDHAM.—The (Parliamentary) Electoral Returns (1865-66) give the following particulars as to the
parliamentary borough of Oldham :—Population in 1831, 50,513; in 1861, 94,344; in 1866 (computed),
107,729. Inhabited houses in 1861, 18,335. Number of electors on the parliamentary register, É10
occupiers, in 1832-3, 1131; in 1865-6, 2316 ; but deducting double entries (31) the actual number of
electors is 2285; of whom 1993 voted at the last general election. Number of working men on the present
parliamentary register, 315. The parliamentary and municipal boroughs are not conterminous. The Small
Tenements Act has not been adopted. The gross estimated rental in 1856 was £192,594; in 1865-6,
f450,407; increase £257,813. The rateable value in 1856 was £179,818; in 1862, £220,308; in 1865-6,
£245,868. The gross annual value of all messuages or tenements and lands, including tithe rent-charge,
according to the income-tax assessment, schedule A, is £307,250; the gross estimated rental of such
property, according to the valuation-list, is £325,369. The number of male occupiers at a gross estimated
rental of under £10, is 11,844; £10 and over, 31,342;" total, 43,186. At a rateable value of £4 and
under £10, 9387; £10 and over, 2278; total, 11,665. The gross estimated rental is stated to represent
the full rack-rent. A deduction of 33% per cent is made from the gross estimated rental in estimating the
rateable value of houses at and under £10. This deduction, it is stated, the assessment committee
consider is not too much to cover the repairs and depreciation.
1. It is stated that many persons become disqualified by non- interested in different concerns, and included in two or three
payment of rates, and that it is possible that there may have been different assessments. It is also stated that a great number of
a few cases in which occupiers have been entered more than once, persons (such as Small shopkeepers) disqualify themselves purposely
when the assistant-overseers have not been aware that they are by not paying their rates in due time.
GENERAL INDEX TO VOLU M E I.]
—6–
A
ABBEYs, see Monasteries
Abbots summoned to parliament (temp. Edward III.), 97
Abduction, 144; atrocious case of, 187 -
Aborigines, 1
Act for Uniformity (1662), 235
Ad Alaunam (Overborough, not Lancaster), 3, 5
ADDENDA to volume i. pp. 612-669
Agecroft Hall (Pendlebury), 599
Ages, condition, and occupations of the people of Lanca-
shire (1861), 624
Agricola, his conquest and rule of the Brigantes, 2, 3
Agriculture and soil of Lancashire, 249
Aikin, Dr., his description of Manchester and its people
(1690-1720), 326
Ainsworth, chapelry of, 468, 479
Ainsworth, Robert, F.A.S., life of, 605
Alchemists, Lancashire, 133
Alfred, King, 14
Alport or Aldport Lodge (Manchester), 314 ; Park and
Eield, 75.
AMOUNDERNESS, Hundred of, Domesday Survey of,
26 ; bequeathed by Henry, first duke of Lancaster, 38
Ancoats Hall, 400
Anlezargh, township of, 577; a possession of the Knights
of St. John of Jerusalem, ió. ; minerals in, b. ; popula-
tion, 578
Anne, Queen, 60, 101, 239
Archery, Lancashire, 190, 549
Ardwick, township of, 403, 566 ; chapelry, 403
Armada, Spanish, preparations against, 184 ; the queen's
proclamation in Lancashire, 185; charges of the Lanca-
shire fire-beacons, ib.; number of men raised in Lanca-
shire and Cheshire, ib.; information of the Spanish fleet
conveyed to government by Homfray Brooke of Liver-
pool, 186, note ; the English fire-ships (July 29, 1598),
70. ; Spanish loss, '6, ; general thanksgiving and earl of
Derby's letter, ib. -
Array, commissions and commissioners of, 78, 81, 84, 85
Arthur, King, his twelve battles, 9, 10 -
Ashton Manor, devolution of, 423 ; customs and rent-roll
of (1422), 426,427; Old Hall, 430
Ashton Moss, 433
Ashton or Assheton family, of Ashton, 424
Ashton, Sir Thomas, the alchemist, 133
ASHTON-UNDER-LYNE, Parish, its name and ancient history,
423 ; grant of the Bishop of Durham (1412), 424;
parish church, rectory, and advowson, 424 ; rectory,
431, 444; church structure, 430 ; boundaries (1643),
428, (1857), ib. note ; four divisions of the parish, 429;
book of fifteenth (1617), 430 ; population (1801-1861),
433; Hartshead division and Stalybridge, 436; Moss-
ley, 438 ; the hills, ib. ; Hurst, 439 ; Audenshaw divi-
sion, 440 ; Buckley Hall and Cinderland Hall, 441 ;
Medlock Wale, Woodhouses, mansions in Audenshaw
division, 442; Knott Lanes division, Lees, manufac-
tures, places of worship, and institutions, İb.; Hey, man-
Sions, Alt Hill, Bardsley, and Taunton, 443; mansions
in this division, 444; Fairfield and Moravian settle-
ment, 76.
Ashton-under-Lyne, Town and Borough, riding the Black
Lad, 426 ; government, 430 ; churches and chapels
(1851), 431 ; literary institutions, newspapers, charities,
manufactures, and trade, 432 ; cotton-manufacture,
mills, engines, and looms, 433; fairs, āb. ; storms (1719
and 1817), ib. ; Town Hall, banks, 434; Market Hall,
District Infirmary, old halls, etc., 435; Parliamentary
borough, b. ; elections (1832-1865), 436 ; water, Knott
Hill Reservoir, 438 ; rainfall for twelve years, 439 ;
waterworks, ib.; baths, 445; charter of incorporation, ib.
Ashton-under-Lyne, Poor Law Union, area and population
(1861) and places of worship in, 433 ; Union Work-
house, 435
Ashworth, chapelry (Middleton), area and population, 468
Aspull and Turton, 576
Assheton chapel, in Middleton church, 470
Asshetons of Middleton, 468
Assheton, William, D.D., life of, 478
Assizes, places and times of holding, 65
Association, Lancashire loyal, for defence of Queen Eliza-
beth, 183; names of its members, ib.
Audenshaw (Ashton-under-Lyme) parochial division of,
440; area and population of, ºb.; Guide Bridge, ºb.; places
of worship and schools, ib. ; Shepley Hall estate, ºb. ;
manufactures, 441 ; High and Low Ash, ºff. ; Audenshaw
Village and Lodge, b. ; Hobson's charity, Ö.
F}
BADGES of the House of Lancaster, 134
Baldingstone School, Walmersley (Bury), 518
Bamfords of Bamford, 525 ; Bamford Hall, Ö. -
Bancroft, Richard, D.D., archbishop of Canterbury, life of,
538
Banistre, Adam de, his treachery to Thomas earl of Lan-
caster, 83
Banditti, Lancashire, 105
Bank-notes and gold in Manchester, 335
Baptists, number in Lancashire (1851), 258; places of
worship in Manchester and Salford (1835), 259 ; (1851),
Žb. -
Bardsley (Ashton-under-Lyne) a supposed Druidical seat,
443; family of, ib. ; church, ib. ; Bardsley House, ºb.
* The local names within parentheses, are those of the parishes, within which the places first-named are situate.
672
£ntity.
Barlow, William, D.D., Bishop of Lincoln, life of, 404
Baronets, order of, created by James I., 198; Lancashire,
Żó.
Barons of the Honor of Lancaster, 29 ; their succession
and stations, ib. ; wars of the, 75 ; of Manchester, 274
Barony of Manchester, 273
Barton, Book of 583; Whickleswick and Cadishead, b.
Barton Guising, 590 ; village and old hall, 594; hamlets
in, 597; poor-law union and workhouse, ib.
Barton, Sir Andrew, the Scottish pirate, 543, note
Barton-upon-Irwell (Eccles), township of, 582 ; devolution
of the manor, İb.
Bartons of Barton, 582; of Holme and Smithells, 583
Barytes, carbonate of, 577
Battles of King Arthur, 9; of King Alfred, 14; of Stam-
ford Bridge (October 5, 1066), 18; of Hastings (Octo-
ber 14, 1066, 19; of Dunbar (1296), 81 ; of Stirling,
76. ; of Methven, 82; of Bannockburn (1314), 83 ; of
Boroughbridge (1322), 84; of Berwick (1378), 105; of
Neville's Cross (1346), 107. Wars of the Roses: St.
Alban's, first (1465), 134; Blore Heath (1496), ib. ;
Northampton (1460), 136 ; Wakefield (1460), Ö, ; Morti-
mer's Cross (1461), ib. ; St. Albans, second (1461), ib, ;
Towton (1461), ib.: Hexham (1464), 137; Barnet
(1471), b. ; Tewkesbury (1471), ib. ; Stoke (1487),
144; Flodden (1513), 149. Civil War : Edge Hill
(1642), 219 ; Marston Moor (1644), 223; Naseby
(June 1645) and Rowton Heath, Cheshire, 224; Pres-
ton (August 1648), 229 ; Worcester (September 1651),
232
Bay of Morecambe, 3
Beacons, ancient, 185
Beaucliffe and Bentcliffe Halls (Eccles), 594
Beer, of old, 192
Belisama (the Mersey), 3 ; (the Ribble) ib. note
Benshaw or Beaconshaw Tower (Todmorden), 510
Bent Hall (Oldham), 466 .
“Bible Christians” (Cowherdites) in Manchester and Sal-
ford (1835 and 1851), 295
Birch, Captain, takes Lancaster (February 1642), 219
Birch, chapelry of, 402; new church, 403; new parish, ib.
Birch Hall, 400 ; Birch House, 542 -
Births, marriages, and deaths, Lancashire, in ten years
(1851-60), 614
Birtle-cum-Bamford, township of (Middleton), 468, 479
BLACKBURN, Hundred of, institution of, 15 ; in Domes-
day survey, 25
Black Knight, or “Black Lad,” Ashton-under-Lyne tradition
of, 426 and note
Blackley or Blakeley, chapelry of (Manchester), 401;
area and population, 6
Blackrod, chapelry of, 547, 580; devolution of the manor,
580; episcopal chapel, 581 ; Red Moss and coal-mines,
Žb.
Blind Asylum, Henshaw's (Manchester), 304
Bolton, Great, township of, 547, 559
Bolton, Little, township of, 547, 559, 572
BOLTON Parish, history of, 547; population and area of
parish and townships, devolution of the manor, b. ;
Leland's and Camden's visits, 548 ; living and vicarage,
parish church, monuments, 552; registers, taking down
of old church (1866), and new church in progress (1867),
vicars, ºb. ; new parishes, lectureship, churches in the
old parish, 553; churches and chapels, 554 ; charities,
555 ; manufactures and trade, 556; Rasbotham's notes
on Bolton—Samuel Crompton's invention of the mule,
557; statistics of manufacturing, 558 ; Great and Little
Bolton, 559; poor-law union, 560; Little Bolton,
Little Lever, and Hall, 572; lives of Thomas Lever,
B.D., and Oliver Heywood, B.A., b. ; Darcy Lever,
Tonge-with-Haulgh, Breightmet, 574; Harwood, Shar-
ples, Bradshaw, 575 ; Turton, Quarlton, Edgeworth,
Entwisle, 576; Entwisle family, 577; Longworth,
Anlezargh, Rivington, the Pilkington family, 579 ; life
of James Pilkington, D.D., bishop of Durham, 580;
Blackrod, ib. ; soil of the parish, land-rents, mosses,
coal and lead mines, mineral springs, climate, township
of Lostock, 581
Bolton, Town and Borough, its manufactures and trade, 558;
repulses the royalists (1642), 219; described by Leland,
548 ; the town during the civil war, 549; works in the
town, canals and railways, 558 ; prices of provisions
(1745 and 1787), population of town, Great and Little
Bolton, Jannock and oat-bread, Schools, 659; charter of
incorporation (1838), accounts, ex-mayors, town-hall,
560; police, fire establishment, county court, water Sup-
ply, rain-fall, gas, 561; Street improvements, post-Office,
banks, market-hall, Squares, public library and museum,
and other institutions, 562; infirmary, baths, concert-
hall, theatre, parks, cemetery, exchange, volunteers,
co-operative Societies, working-men's dwellings, 563;
parliamentary borough and elections since 1832, 564;
parliamentary, electoral, and municipal returns (1865-6)
Ö. ; local events and occurrences, 565
Booker, John, astrologer, life of, 405
Booth, Barton, tragedian, life of, 606
Booth family of Dunham Massey and Ashton-under-Lyne,
425
Booth, Humphrey, the elder, benefactor to Manchester
Collegiate Church, 285 ; founds and endows Trinity
Chapel, Salford (1634), 286
Booth, Lawrence, D.D., archbishop of York and lord
chancellor, life of, 604
Booth, Mary, married Henry Grey, fourth earl of Stamford,
426
Booths of Barton, family, 583
Booth, Sir George, defeated near Northwich (August 1659)
and taken prisoner, 234 ; Sir George (1611) and his
grandson Sir George, first lord Delamere, 425 ; Henry,
Second lord, ib.
Booth, William, D.D., archbishop of York and lord chan-
cellor, life of, 604
Booths, manor and hall (Worsley), 602
Boroughs, parliamentary, of Lancashire, first return mem-
bers, 91 ; cease to return members, ib. ; members
returned for some boroughs in reign of Edward II.,
93 ; resumption; by four boroughs of the elective
franchise (1547), 100 ; boroughs of Newton and
Clitheroe created by Queen Elizabeth (1559), 100 ;
Lancashire borough members during the Commonwealth,
101 ; boroughs and members under the Reform Act of
1832, 103 ; population of all Lancashire boroughs in
1851 and 1861, 263 ; new Lancashire boroughs under
Representation of People Act (1867), 264; number of
boroughs and members under that Act, b. ; population
of parliamentary and municipal boroughs (1861), 623
Bothe, Thomas del, his will (1368), 283
Brackley, Wiscount, 600
Bradford, John, a Lancashire martyr, 308 ; life of, 309
588
{mtſº,
673
Bradshaw, chapelry of, 547, 575 ; chapel, 576.
Bradshaw, family of, 575, and note
Bradshaw, John, president, high-Sheriff of Lancashire
(1644–50), 62, 575 ; his death, b.
Brandlesome Hall (Bury), 524
Brandwood Waste (Rochdale), 511
Breightmet, warrant to seize the manor of (1483), 140 ;
township of, 547, 574; devolution of the manor, 574;
the hall, 575 ; Roman road and remains found in, ºb.
Brematonacae or Bremetonacis, Roman station of (at Over-
borough), 3 ; (at Lancaster), 3 note, 4
Brereton family of Malpas and Worsley, 600
BrideOake, Ralph, D.D. bishop of Chichester, life of, 406
Bridge Hall (Bury), 525
Bridgewater, Francis, third duke of, 333
canal, 333, 336, 602
dukes of, 600 ; Scroope, first duke, ºb.
earls of, 600 ; Scroope, fourth earl, ib.
Brigantes, the, 1, 2, 3
Brinsop Hall (Dean), 545
Britain, before the Norman Conquest, 1-20 ; under the
Romans, 1-7 ; Saxons, 8 ; Danes, 16 ; Normans, 18
Britons, manners, customs, and language, 1, 2
Broughton, Sir Thomas, 143, 144 ; his estates granted to
Lord Stanley, 144
Bruce, Robert, 82
Buckley Hall (Rochdale), 506
Buckley of Buckley (Rochdale), family of, 506
Buildings in Lancashire, temp. Elizabeth, 192
BURY Parish, history of, 514; its townships and chapel-
ries, their area and population, ib. ; old castle and new
barracks, royal manor of Tottington, and manor of
Bury, Ö, ; devolution of the manor, 515 ; old halls,
516 ; parish church edifice, value of the living, monu-
ments and glebe, parish register, ib. ; rectory and rectors,
517; churches and chapels, and rise of dissent, b. ;
charities, manufactures, 518; John, and Robert Kay,
519 ; the Peel family, increase of population, the poor-
law union, ºb. ; Manor of Bury and court-leet, ºb.
Bury, Town and Parliamentary Borough, 514; Improvement
Commissioners, gas and rates, burial board and cemetery,
commissioners' accounts (1867), 519 ; petty sessions,
estimated population of the borough and its townships
(1867), county court, police, fire-brigade, water-works,
521 ; banks, dispensary, newspapers, public monuments,
co-operative stores, Mechanics' Institution and Athenaeum,
522; fall of the theatre (1787), loss of the Rothsay
Castle steamer (1831), ib.; market and hall, chapels, b,;
boundaries and parliamentary elections since 1832, 523 ;
parliamentary and electoral statistics of the borough,
places of worship (1851) ib. ; Musbury, Cowpe, Lench,
Newhall Hey, and Hall Carr, b. ; manor of Tottington,
524; Holcombe, Elton, Heap, ib. ; Heywood estate, hall,
and chapel, Walmersley, old halls in parish, 525; dialect,
526 ; life of John Warburton, Somerset Herald, b.
Butler or Boteler, Lady Isabel, of Bewsey, abduction of, 187
Butterworth (Rochdale), parochial division of, 405 ; ham-
lets and old halls in, 506
Byrom, John, M.A., F.R.S., life of, 407
C
CADE, JACK, his insurrection, 133
Cadishead village (Eccles) 583
Caesar, Julius, his description of the Britons, 2 ; his two
expeditions into Britain, Ö.
Camden at Manchester, 314
Canal, the Bridgewater, 333, 350
Canal navigation, 327; Sankey canal, b. ; Ashton, 338;
Bolton, Ö. ; Huddersfield, 339; Halifax, ºb. ; Rochdale,
Žb. ; Junction (1839), 350
Canute, king of England, 16 ; his forest-laws, 73
Carr, Sour (Ashton-under-Lyne), 426
Carta de Foresta, 72, 73, 74
Cartmel given by Egfrid, king of Northumberland, to St.
Cuthbert, 41.
Castle (Rochdale), Roman coins found at, 507
Castles, Saxon, in Lancashire, 12 ; Norman, of Lancaster
and Liverpool, 21, 30
Castleton (Rochdale), or Old Town, parochial division of,
482, 504; devolution of estates, ºb. ; old halls in, b.
Catholics (Roman), recusants, 176; Seminary priests and
Jesuits, 187; their fidelity in 1588, b. ; persecution of,
Žb. ; acts against Catholics and non-jurors, 240 ; number
of Catholics and chapels in Lancashire (1819), 257;
number of places of worship and sittings (1851), 258
Cavaliers and Roundheads, term first used (1642), 214
Chadderton family, 466
Chadderton, Lawrence, D.D., life of, 465
Chadderton, township of (Oldham), 465 ; Chadderton and
Fox Denton Halls, ºb. ; devolution of the manor, ºb.
Chadderton, William, D.D., bishop of Chester, life of, 403
Chadwick family and Hall, 512
Chadwick hamlet (Rochdale), 511
Chamber Hall (Bury), seat of the first and birthplace of
the second Sir Robert Peel, 519 note.
Chancellor of the Duchy, appointment (1377), 121 note ;
degradation of a, 161 ; list of chancellors (1351-1831),
50 ; chancellor (1867), 54
Chancery Court of the Duchy, 63 ; of the County Palatine,
Žb. -
Chantries, Lancashire, at the Reformation, 159 ; visitation
and suppression of, 161; restoration of, 162; required
to conform to the practice of the chapel-royal, 166
Charities, see under every parish history
Charles I., accession of (1625), 211 ; raises his standard at
Nottingham (1642), 215 ; surrender of (1646), 224 ;
execution (1649), 231
Charles II. marches from Scotland to Lancashire (1650),
231 ; defeated by Cromwell at the battle of Worcester
(1651), 232; conceals himself in an oak at Boscobel, ºb.;
his restoration to the throne (1660), 234, 325; cele-
bration in Manchester of his coronation (1661), 325
Charms in witchcraft, 202
Charters of the Duchy (1362), chancery (1377), and
treasury (1390), 39, 40, and notes
Chat Moss, 596 ; described by Leland and Camden, b. ;
drainage, reclaiming, and cultivation of parts, 597
Cheetham, Humphrey, his hospital and school at Manchester,
299; School for 40 boys increased to 100, ºb. ; incor-
porated by charter (1665), 300 ; dress of the boys, the
governor and the schoolmaster, ib. ; his free library in
Manchester, 300; its rooms, feoffees (1867), and librarian,
b. ; books given by him to churches and chapels, 301 ;
his seal and arms, ib. ; books in the Chetham Library,
Manchester, 301 ; life of Humphrey Chetham, 405
Cheetham, township of, 381; town-hall, ib. ; manor, 468;
Cheetham Hill, 403; area and population, 66
Chesham, Lower, Hall (Bury), 525
Chester city held by Lord Byron for the king, 224 ;
surrendered to Sir William Brereton (1646), Ö.
4 R
674
#nbcy,
Chester, diocese of, 256 ; bishops of (1541-1868), 256 ;
Dr. Bird, first bishop, 257; rate on the clergy imposed
by Dr. Lloyd, seventh bishop, ib.
Cholera, Asiatic (1832), 348; (1849), 352
Chorlton-cum-Hardy, chapelry of (Manchester), 401
Chorlton-on-Medlock or Chorlton Row, township of, 66;
town-hall, 381 ; Chorlton Hall, 400
“Chorlton Rant,” 335
Chorlton Union, 379 ; statistics of, 666
Christianity, introduction of, Il
“Christ's Croft,” 28, note
Chronicle, Savon, Lancashire not named in, 16
Churches and Episcopal chapels in Lancashire (1851), 251.
For those in the various parishes, see the separate parish
histories
Churches, British, restored in seventh century, 12
in Salford Hundred in Domesday Survey, 25
in the gift of the king (Testa de Nevill), 87
Civil War in Lancashire (1641-2), 215, 318
Clarke, Henry, LL.D., life of, 413
Clayton Hall (Droylsden), 400
Clegg family and hall (Rochdale), 405, 506
Clergy, military rates on the, 257
Cliderhow, Robert de, preaches against Edward II. in
Wigan church, 84; Adam de Cliderhow, his son, a man-
at-arms, ib.
Clifton, township of (Eccles), 599; devolution of the
manor, b.
Climate of Lancashire, 245
Clitheroe Castle ordered by parliament to be demolished,
23].
Clitheroe, Honor of, conferred on General Monk, 234
Coal, first used as fuel (A.D. 1260), 78 ; Lancashire coal-
measures, 248 ; coals raised and sold (1857 and 1865),
251 ; number of collieries, ib. ; production of cannel
coal in Lancashire, ºb. ; total produce of coal in United
Kingdom (1865), b. ; distribution of Lancashire coal
by railways and shipment, ib.; area of the Lancashire
coal-fields, 76. note ; production of coal and cannel
(1865), ib. note
Coast, depredations on the (1410), 128
Cob House (Bury), 525
Coccium, a Roman station (Blackrod), 3 ; (Walton-le-Dale),
ib. note
Coinage, table of the value of the pound of silver (1300-
1816), 78
Collier, John (“Tim Bobbin”), 505, 610
Collyhurst Hall (Manchester), 400
Commissions from Richard III. to Lord Stanley, 140 ;
ecclesiastical (1580-86), 176; remodelled, 184, 313,
315 ; renewed, 316 ; the duties devolved on the magis-
tracy, ió.
Commonwealth, 101
Composition of estates of lords, knights, and gentlemen of
Lancashire (1646), 225
Condition, civil (or conjugal), of the people of Lancashire
(1861), 624
Conventicle Act (1664), 236
Co-Operative societies in Lancashire, 652
Corn Laws, seven years' agitation for repeal of, 363
Coronation of Richard II, Lancashire men present at, 117;
of Charles II. (1661), celebration in Manchester, 325
Corporation and Test Act (1661), 235
Council of the North, 161
Counting Hill, Mr. D. Rasbotham's account of, 545
County Palatine, creation of, 56; reasons for granting, b. ;
form of writs and process, ib.; high sheriffs (1087-1867),
57-61 ; privileges of the county palatine, 61 ; outlaws
and their punishment, 61,62; records of, 68; see Courts
County, public officers of the, 649 ; bridgemasters and
Surveyors, 650 ; courts, ib.
Courts, county, 650 ; local, ib. $
Courts, Star Chamber, 45; abolished, 212; ecclesiastical,
62 ; records of, 69 ; law, 63; chancery and exchequer,
ºb. ; chancery of duchy and county palatine, ib. ;
Queen's Bench and Common Pleas, 64; common pleas
for the county palatine, ib. ; inferior jurisdiction, 65 ;
general quarter-Sessions, ib. ; courts of record, 67 ;
hundred, b. ; honor of Clitheroe, 68 ; county palatine
records, 68
Cowpe, Lench, Newhall Hey, and Hall Carr (Bury),
township of, area and population, 514; four villages
forming the township, 523 ; Cowpe Law and Moss, ib.
Crompton, Samuel, invents the spinning-mule, 557
Crompton, township of, and hall, 466, 467
Cromwell, Oliver, defeats the royalists at Preston (August
1648) and at Winwick, 229; his letter to the Speaker
(August 1648); 230; as lord-protector summons a new
parliament, 233; dies (September 1658) ib.
Cromwell, Richard, his feeble rule, 233
Crosby (Sefton), feudal exemptions named in Domesday
Survey, 25
Culcheth family, 535
Curtana, or Lancaster sword, the right to carry at the
coronation claimed by John of Gaunt, 40; the Isle of
Man granted to be held by that service, 120
Cuthbert, St., has a grant of Cartmel, 41
T)
DAISEY HALL, or Westhoughton Hall (Dean), 545
Danes' Dyke (Horwich), 444
Danish invasion, 13 ; their excesses, 14 ; Tancashire al-
most a Danish colony, 15 ; Danegeld imposed (A.D.
991), 16 ; Canute becomes sole monarch, ió. ; Hardi-
canute succeeded by Edward the Confessor, 17
Dalton, John, D.C.L., etc., his meteorological observations
at Manchester, 383; life of, 413
Darcy Lever, chapelry of (Bolton), area and population,
547 ; the old hall a seat of the Levers, 574 ; the new
hall, ºb.
Darrell’s “Marrative” of demoniacal possession, 200
Davyhulme Hall (Eccles), 595 ; the hamlet, 597
DEAN Parish, history of, and early division, 534; devolu-
tion of the manor, the townships and family of Hulton,
forest of Horwich, b. ; area and population of the parish
and its townships, Rumworth, Middle Hulton, Kersley,
Westhoughton, Horwich, Smithells, Little Hulton, 535;
Roman road, parish church, b. ; living, advowson,
vicars, parish registers, episcopal and other chapels,
charities, 536 ; local events and occurrences, 537;
population and manufactures, life of Richard Bancroft,
D.D., archbishop of Canterbury, 538 ; life of Martin
Heton, D.D., bishop of Ely, life of George Marsh the
Protestant martyr, 539 ; the three townships of Hulton,
the families of Rigby, Kenyon, Yates, 541 ; Kersley
and Farnworth, Dorning Rasbotham, 542 ; Halliwell,
Smithells Hall and its possessors, 543; Heaton town-
ship and forest of Horwich, Wilder Lads, Giant's Stone,
T)anes' Dyke, 544; schools, 545; soil, farms, land-rents,
quarries, and mines, 546
Innex.
675
Deaf and Dumb School, Manchester, 304
Deaths, births, and marriages, in ten years (1851-60),
614
Declaration of forests, chases, and parks, 48 ; against
Thomas first Lord Stanley (1459), 135 ; of the Earls at
the rising in the North (1569), 169
Dee, Dr. John, and Queen Elizabeth, 175 ; his petition to
be freed from the charge of witchcraft (1604), 198; his
dealings with Edward Kelly, 199; his reproof of
Hartley as to the Cleworth demoniacs, 200 ; his life,
316
De La Warres, barons of Manchester, 276
Demoniacal possession, in Chester (1564), 199; at Cle-
worth (1594), b. ; at Surey, in Whalley (1689), 206
“Daemonologie” of King James I., 201
Denton, chapelry of (Manchester), 402; now a parish, b. ;
area and population (1861), 657
Denton Hall, a seat of the Hollands, 400
DERBY, WEST, Hundred of, in Domesday Survey, 24 ;
feudal tenure at the Conquest, 28; see also West Derby
Derby, Margaret, countess of (1570), her imprisonment
and sufferings, 170
Derby, Charlotte Tremouille, countess of, her defence of
Lathom, 222 ; surrenders the Isle of Man, 232
Derby, earls of, Thomas Stanley, 1st earl (1485), 143 ;
Edward 3d earl, his letter to the privy council, 170 ;
a letter of the earl of Huntingdon against him (1573),
Zb.; his death, 171; Henry, 4th earl, thanked by Queen
Elizabeth for his zeal in Lancashire, 176 ; signs the
declaration of the loyal Lancaster association, 183; his
letter to the deputy-lieutenants and justices, directing
thanksgivings throughout the county (1588), 166 : Fer-
dinando, 5th earl, his death attributed to witchcraft,
I88 ; William, 6th earl, entertains James I. (1617),
209; death, 216 ; James, 7th earl, while Lord Strange
(1642), 215; becomes earl of Derby, 216 ; unsuccessful
at Birmingham, takes up his quarters at Warrington, 76.5
styled “Lord-General of the County of Lancaster,” 217;
Lord Clarendon's estimate of him, 218 ; the earl takes
Lancaster, Preston, and Blackburn, but is repulsed at
Bolton (1642), 219; defeated by Sir John Seaton at
Wigan, and by Colonel Shuttleworth at Salisbury, ib. ;
proceeds to the Isle of Man, 220 ; returns, and, with
Prince Rupert, takes Bolton, 222 ; fails to relieve
Liverpool, 223; his estates sequestrated, 286 ; captured
in Cheshire by Major Edge, tried by a court-martial at
Chester for high treason, and condemned to death, 232;
executed at Bolton (October 15, 1651), ºb. ; his speech
at his execution, 550
Didsbury, chapelry of (Manchester), 401
Dignities, seven princely and five noble, 198
Dissent, rise of, in Rochdale and other places, 488; in
Eccles and Monton, 589
Divines, assembly of, at Westminster (1643), 226
Dom-Boo, King Alfred's, a code of laws, 15
T}omesday Survey, account of its origin in the Savon
Chronicle, 23 ; “Lancashire” not named in, b. ; trans-
lation of all relating to Lancashire, 24-27; to West
Derby hundred, 24; Newton hundred, Warrington
hundred, b. ; Blackburn hundred, b. ; Salford hundred,
7b, ; Leyland hundred, 26; Amounderness hundred, ib. ;
Craven (Yorkshire), 27; the land of Roger de Poitou,
Žb. ; ranks of men named in the Survey, ib.
Douglas river, battles of King Arthur on the banks of, 10
Dress, in Lancashire, temp. Elizabeth, 190; of the ladies,
'b.; of priests, 191 ; of a fine lady, b. ; temp. James I.,
ºb. ; of a gentleman, 192
Drought and scarcity (1799-1800), 340
Droylsden, township of (Manchester), area and population
(1861), 657
Druidism, 1, 2
Ducatus Lancastrice, compilation of, 46; a calendar of
inquisitions post-mortem and pleadings, ib. ; Fleet-
wood’s MS. so-called, 55
Duchy and County Palatine of Lancashire, charter of crea-
tion (1362), 39 note; fees of officers (1482), 37;
grant of court of chancery to, 39 note ; grant of col-
lectors of subsidy, justices-itinerant, and for pleas of
the forest, and court of exchequer, 40 note ; grant of
forfeitures and fines, assize of bread, wine, ale, etc., the
chattels of felons and fugitives, return of writs, sum-
monses and precepts, waif and stray, deodands, trea-
Sure-trove 42 note ; act vesting the presentation to
ecclesiastical benefices in the duchy, 44; Duchy Court
and Star-Chamber of duchy established, 45; seal of the
duchy to be used, b. ; act (1461) for confiscating the
duchy to the crown, 46 note ; duchy post-mortem in-
quisitions and pleadings in the Ducatus Lancastrice, ib. ;
act of Philip and Mary for restoring and enlarging the
possessions of the duchy, 47 ; book of fees and privileges,
revenues, forests and parks, benefices, etc., of the duchy,
48; chancellors (1351–1831), 50 ; records, 52 ; deposi-
tories of, 52 ; duchy seal described, ib. ; officers of, 54 ;
Sir William Fleetwood’s MS. “Ducatus Lancastriae,” 55;
chancery court, 63 ; duchy rolls (1351–1361), 110 ;
duchy records (1377-1389), 121 ; rights and possessions
of Co. Hereford added to the duchy, 130 ; expenses
of duchy officers, 189 ; proposal to abolish the courts
of the duchy and county palatine, 233; their jurisdic-
tion revived (1660), ib.
Dukes of Lancaster : Henry Ist and “good duke,” his
creation and investiture, 37; his grant to Whalley
Abbey (1361), 38 ; his will and death (1361), b. and
108 ; inquisition post-mortem and possessions, 109 ; his
ducal and the regnal years, 110. John of Gaunt, 2d
duke, 39 ; assumes the title of King of Castile and Leon,
39 ; favours Wickcliffe, 40; goes to Scottish war and
to Spain, 41; returns with much treasure, ºb. ; his wives,
*b.; his death, epitaph, and bequests, 42 ; his son Henry
of Bolingbroke, duke of Hereford, and 3d duke of Lan-
caster, banished, 43 ; returns and makes Richard II. his
prisoner, 44; ascends the throne as Henry IV., b. ; the
duchy is vested by act of parliament in his eldest son
Henry, Prince of Wales, and his heirs for ever, 4th duke,
45 ; the duchy vests in Henry W. as duke of Lancaster,
Žb. ; John of Gaunt's power, 117; his wife Catherine
Swynford, 120 ; his children by three wives, 128
Dumplington, hamlet of (Eccles), 597
E
EARLs of LANCASTER, 32; Edmund Crouchback, ió.;
Thomas, his son, 33 ; joins the barons against the king,
Žb.; defeated at Boroughbridge, and beheaded at Ponte-
fract, 34 ; venerated as a Saint, and alleged miracles at
his tomb, b. ; his household book (1313), 35 ; Henry,
his brother, succeeds to the earldom and its restored
possessions, ib. ; his son and heir, Henry, succeeds to the
earldom, 36 ; and is created first duke of Lancaster, 37
Earl Tosti expelled from his government of Northumber-
land, 17
676
Hintºx,
Earthquakes (1753), 333; (1843), 351 ; (1863), 361
ECCLES Parish, history of, 582 ; its townships, area, and
population, Roman roads, name, Eccles family, b. ;
Barton-upon-Irwell, devolution of the manor, ib. ; the
Bartons and Booths, Whickleswick, Cadishead, Eccles
parish church, its structure and restorations, 583; monu-
ments, the old pews and their assignment, 584 ; advow-
son, deeds in Whalley Coucher-Book, chantries, 585;
Whalley Abbey receipts from Eccles church, the rectory
and its devolution, tithes, tradition, 587; vicars,
registers, marriages, Bradford the martyr, terrier of the
glebe, episcopal chapels, 588 ; Pendleton church, dis-
Senting chapels in the parish, b. ; Monton chapel and
ministers, charities, 589; Bury Lane fight in the civil
war, population of the parish (1776-1861), 590 ; Eccles
Wakes, Eccles and Barton's Contentious Guising War, ib.;
Maypole and sports at Pendleton aud. Pendlebury, local
annals, 591 ; manufactures, Canals, and railways, Patri-
croft, Bridgewater foundry, and Christ Church, 593 ;
Barton village and old hall, Trafford, Beaucliffe, Monks,
and other halls, 594 ; Lostock, Davy Hulme, Irlam,
Great and Little Woolden Halls, Greaves family, 595 ;
Chat Moss described by Leland and Camden, 596; recla-
mation and cultivation of parts of, hamlets in Barton,
Barton poor-law union and workhouse, 597; Pendleton
township and devolution of the manor, Pendlebury,
598 ; Agecroft Hall, Irlam's-o'-the-Height and church,
Clifton and devolution of the manor, Worsley township,
599; Elias Gigas and the Worsley family, devolution
of the manor, 600 ; the three halls of Worsley ; Kemp-
mall and Wardley Halls, and the story of a skull, 601 ;
Booths manor and hall, Bridgewater canal, 602; New
parish of Worsley, Ellenbrook chapel, Walkden Moor a
new parish, villages and hamlets in Worsley, 603 ;
Swinton a new parish and proposed new church,
chapels, 604; life of William Booth, archbishop of
York and lord chancellor, and of Lawrence Booth,
archbishop of York and lord chancellor, 604 ; of
Thomas Langley, Cardinal, lord chancellor, and bishop
of Durham, life of Robert Ainsworth, F.A.S., lexico-
grapher, 605 ; life of Barton Booth, tragedian, 606.
Ecclesiastical courts, 62; archives of, 69 ; commission for
Lancashire, 313
Edmund Crouchback, earl of Lancaster, titular king of
Sicily, 32; created earl of Leicester and of Lancaster,
with the gift of the honor, b. ; various grants to, by
Henry III. and Edward I., b. notes ; his wife and child-
ren, chief builder of the Gray Friars, Preston, his death
(1296), 33
Bdward the elder repairs and garrisons Manchester, 15.
Edward the Confessor succeeds to the throne (1041), 17 ;
his code of laws, his touch to cure the king's evil, his
death (1066), ib.
Edward I., 32 and note, 33 ; various writs and commis-
sions of, in duchy of Lancaster, 78-81 ; his death, 82
Edward II. and his favourites, 33, 84; dethroned, im-
prisoned, and murdered, 85
Edward III., 36 ; his grants to Henry, last earl and
first duke of Lancaster, 36, 37; his grants and gifts
to his son, John of Gaunt, whom he girt and coroneted
as duke of Lancaster, 39 and notes; reverses the
attainder of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, 85, 104 ; his
warrant to the sheriff against illegal assemblages and
banditti, 105
Edward IV. confirms all the charters and liberties of the
duchy, 46 and note ; takes the throne (1461), 136 ;
his victory at Towton, ib.; his marriage, 137; his flight
to Holland, 138 ; re-ascends the throne and defeats the
Lancastrians at Barnet, 138; his will (1475), and
death (1482), ib.
Edward VI, the acts passed in his reign, 160, 161 ; coun-
cil of the north, ºb. ; his death, ºb.
Egbertden (Horwich Moor), 544
Egerton family of Heaton (Prestwich), 448
Elections, parliamentary, county, since 1832—North Lan-
cashire, 102 ; South Lancashire, ºb.
Elections, parliamentary, borough ; see under each parlia-
mentary borough. -
Electoral returns (1865-6); see under each parliamentary
borough
Electors, county, on register (January 1, 1861), North and
South Lancashire, 627
Elizabeth, Queen, ascends the throne (1558), 165 ; the
northern visitation, ib. ; military muster (1559), 166 ;
her proceedings as to Lancashire, 176; expenses of her
table, 181 ; ecclesiastical commission, 183; the Lan-
cashire association for her defence, 183; her death, 189
Ellands of Elland, 483
Ellen-brook, the, 603
Ellenbrook chapel (Worsley), 603
Elton, township of (Bury), area and population, 514;
Brandlesome Hall and the Greenhalgh family, 524
Entwisle, township of (Bolton), area and population, 547 ;
anciently common land, 576
Entwisle family and hall, 576; Sir Bertine, b.
Entwisle family of Foxholes, 57.7
Estates, Lancashire, confiscated by Henry VII. (1485),
148 ; sequestrated (1642), 220 ; of lords, knights, and
gentlemen, compounded for (1646), 225
Exigent, royal proclamation upon (1552), 62
F
FAILINGE hamlet (Rochdale), 511
|Failsworth, township of (Manchester), area and population,
657 #
Fairfax, Sir Thomas, defeats royalists at Nantwich, 222 ;
begins the siege of Lathom House, ºb.
Fairfield, a Moravian settlement (near Manchester), 444
Familiae Lancastrienses, alphabetical list of (Henry VII. to
William III.), 243-245
Farnworth, township of (Dean), area and population, 535 ;
its name, now a distinct parish, church, old hall, and
Birch House, 542
Fees, in Lancashire, held in chief of the king (Testa de
Nevill), 86
Ferrars or Ferrers, earls of Derby, lords of the Honor of
Lancaster, 31
Feudal system, introduction of, 20 ; abolition of (1660),
237
Feud between the baron of Newton and Mr. Hoghton of Lea,
I87
Fisheries, ancient and salmon in Lancashire rivers, 119
Fifteenths, assessment and collection of (1301-2), 81
Five-mile Act, against nonconformist ministers (1665),
236 -
ELIXTON parish, history of, area and population, devolution
of the manor, parish church, 607; a prebend of Lich-
field cathedral, rectory and incumbents, registers, monu-
ments, chapels, charities, decrease of population, 608 ;
Flixton and Urmston, Flixton village, house, Shaw
Hintjºy,
677
Hall, Urmston and devolution of the manor, new church
(1868), 609; to be a new parish, Urmston Hall, John
Collier (“Tim Bobbin’), notice of him, Soil and land-
rent in the parish, 610
Flodden Field, battle of (1513), 149
Food, temp. Elizabeth, 193
Forests, laws of Canute and King John, 73 ; Lancashire
forests granted to Edmund Crouchback, 32 note ; parks,
forests, and chases of Lancashire, 73 ; assize of the forest
at Lancaster (1286), 74; forest-warrant of William III.
(1697), ib.; subterranean and ancient forests, 250
and note, 251
Forestry and other peculiar tenures, 87
Foxholes, a seat of the Entwisles (Rochdale), 506
Fulling mills, ancient, in Lancashire, petition against
them (1482), 138
Furness Abbey, surrender of (1546), 156
Fustian-Tax (1784), 337; repeal of (1785), ºb. ; rejoicings
in Manchester, b.
s G
GAMES, ancient, 195
Gaol for the Salford Hundred, “New Bailey,” 337; new
hundred gaol, near Assize Courts, Manchester (1867)
338 note
Gaunt, John of, duke of Lancaster ; see Dukes of Lan-
Caster
Geography of the county, 245
Geology of the county, 246
George, the Chevalier de St., son of James II. (“The Pre-
tender”) 239
George I., rebellion of 1715, and execution of rebels, 239
George II., rebellion of 1745, 240
George III, celebration in Manchester of his coronation
(1761), 345 ---
George IV., celebration in Manchester of his coronation
(1821), 345
Gloucester, Eleanor, duchess of, banished for witchcraft to
the Isle of Man,
Gloucester, Richard, duke of, his intrigues and coronation,
139 ; See also Richard III.
Gorton, chapelry of (Manchester), area and population, 657;
now a parish, and its churches, 402
Great Lever ; see Lever, Great
Greaves family and Irlam Hall (Eccles), 595
Greenacres Moor (Oldham), 458
Grelle or Greslet ; see Barons of Manchester
Grismond, Henry ; see Earls of Lancaster
“Guising” at Ashton-under-Lyne, 428 ; Eccles and Bar-
ton, 590
Gunpowder Plot, 196
|H
HACKING HALL (Langho), tumulus at, 13, note
Hall Carr (Bury), 514, 523
Hall-i'-th’-Wood (Bolton), 574 .
Halliwell, township of (Dean), area and population, 535,543
Halsall, feudal exemptions in Domesday, 25, 28
Hamer Hall (Rochdale), 507
Hanson, Lieut.-Colonel, 341 and note
Harold, the last Saxon king, 17 ; defeats Tosti and the
Norwegians at Stamford Bridge, 18; defeated and slain
by the Normans at the battle of Hastings, 19
Harrington family, their forfeited estates, 516, note
Hartshead, parochial division of (Ashton-under-Lyne), 433,
436
Harwood, township of (Bolton), area and population, 547;
Lomax Fold and the farms, 57.1
Hathershaw Moor (Oldham), 458
Hats, manufacture of (1482), 138
Haulgh, township of (Bolton), area and population, 547 ;
Tonge Hall, Barrow, Hall-i'-th'-Wood, Lower Wood, 574
Heap, chapelry of (Bury), area and population, 514; the
family, village, and hall of Heywood, 524
Heaton, Great and Little, townships of (Prestwich), area
and population, 449; Heaton House and Park, the
Hollands, 452
Heaton Norris, township of (Manchester), area and popula-
tion, 657; now a parish, its churches, 403
Heaton, Reddich, and Fallowfield ; see Heaton, Great and
Little
Heaton, township of (Dean), area and population, 535 ;
the old and new halls, the Heatons and Hultons, 544
Healey, hamlet of (Rochdale), 511; the hall, 512 ; the
Chadwicks, ib.
Henry, duke of Lancaster ; see Dukes of Lancaster
Henry, earl of Lancaster, brother of Thomas ; see earls of
Lancaster
Henry III. grants the earldom and Honor of Lancaster to
his son Edward Crouchback, 32 and notes; his letter to
judges-itinerant, 75; his wars with the barons, 75, 76 :
wars in Wales, Scotland, and France, 79 ; convening of
the parliament at Oxford (1258), 89 ; Montfort's parlia-
ment (1265), 90, 91.
Henry IV. (“of Bolingbroke”), his short and troubled
reign, insurrections, and wars, 128, 129 ; Ordinance
that his eldest son Henry and heirs should inherit the
duchy of Lancaster, 44, 45; grants the Isle of Man
to the earl of Northumberland, 120
Henry V. became duke of Lancaster while Prince of Wales,
44; ascends the throne, 45; his reign and victories in
France, 129 ; his ordinance annexing the rights and
possessions of the county of Hereford to the duchy (1414),
130 ; his death, b. ; his will, 131 g
Henry VI, his nonage and marriage, 132; mortgages the
revenues of the duchies of Cornwall and Lancaster, 46 ;
encourages alchemy, 46, 133 ; Wars of the Roses, 134;
his concealment in Lancashire, betrayal by Sir John Tal-
bot, and capture, 137; release from the Tower, 138;
death in the Tower, b. ; alleged miracles at his tomb,
147; unsuccessful attempt to procure his canonisation
as a Saint, ºb.
Henry, duke of Richmond (afterwards Henry VII) defeats
Richard III. at Bosworth, 142 ; his first acts as king,
143 ; marriage with Elizabeth of York, ºb. ; visits the
earl and countess of Derby (his mother) at Knowsley
and Lathom (1495), 145 ; at Manchester (1495), 308 ;
his death, 148
Henry VIII. ascends the throne and invades France, 149 :
writes against Luther, and receives from Leo X. the
title of “Defender of the Faith,” 151; his dissolution
of the monasteries, 152; his will and death, 159
Henshaw's Blind Asylum, Manchester, 304
Heptarchy or Octarchy, Saxon, 10
Hereford county united to the duchy of Lancaster (1414),
130 -
Heriot, 427
Heton, Martin, D.D., bishop of Ely, life of, 539
Heywood family, 525
Heywood, hamlet of (Bury), 524; hall 525
Heywood, Oliver, B.A., life of, 572
678
Hintjøy.
Heywood, Peter, arrests Guy Faux, 198, 524; is stabbed
by a friar, 198, 524
High Moor (Oldham), 458
Hoarstones (or Malkin Tower, in Pendle), a rendezvous of
witches, 205
Hodgkinson, Eaton, F.R.S., life of, 415
Hoghton, Mr., of Lea, killed in an affray with the baron
of Newton, 187
Hoghton Tower, entertainment of James I. at (1617), 208
Holcombe forest, 524; chapel, ib.; hill and monument,
52I
Holcroft, family of, 595
Hollingwood, hamlet of (Oldham), 458
Holt family, of Castleton, 504
Holt family of Stubley, 597
Honor of Lancaster ; see Lancaster, Honor of
Honors heritable before the Norman Conquest, 28
Hopkin Moor (Oldham), 458
Hopwood family of Hopwood, 479 ; family charters and
evidences, ib. note ; the great will cause (1855), ºb. note
Hopwood, township of (Middleton), area and population,
468; devolution of the manor, 479 ; the hall, ºb.
Hornby, a possession of Roger de Montbegon, 29
Hornby Castle, visit of James I. (1617), 208; demolition |
of (1643), 221
Horses, breed of, 314
Horwich, chapelry of (Dean), area and population, 535 ;
devolution of the manor, 544
Horwich, forest of, 534, 544; Horwich Moor, ºb.
Hospitality temp. Elizabeth, 193
Hough Hall or Hough's End (Manchester), 400
Hough Moss, irruption of (1633), 317
Household furniture temp. Elizabeth, 194
House of Lancaster, elevation to royal dignity in Henry |
IV., 144
Houses, Lancashire, temp. Elizabeth, 192; accommodation,
194
Houses of York and Lancaster, rival claims of, 134 ; first
battle between, St. Alban's (1454), ºb. ; Bloreheath
(1459), b. ; badges of both houses, b. ; those of Lan-
caster, 135 ; various battles in the war of the Roses (see
Battles), the battle of Bosworth terminates the war of
the Roses or rival houses, 142 ; their union by the mar-
riage of Henry VII. and Elizabeth of York, 143
Howard Hall (Rochdale), 507
Howard family, 507
Hulme, township of (Manchester), area and population, 657;
town-hall, 381; proposed public park for, 666
Hulton family, 534
Hulton, Little, township of (Dean), 534; area and popu-
lation, 535; devolution of the manor, the two Peel
Halls, ib., 541
Hulton, Middle, township of (Dean), 534; area and popula-
tion, 535, 541
Hulton, Over, township of (Dean), 534; area and popula-
tion, 535, 541
Hundersfield, parochial division of (Rochdale), 506; old
halls in, 506, 507
Hundreds, institution of, 15 ; in Domesday Survey, 24-27;
the six ancient hundreds in South Lancashire, ib., 259 ;
those north of the Ribble, 259 ; called wapentakes, ºb.;
the hundreds of Newton and Warrington merged in that
of West Derby, ib. ; the modern six hundreds of Lanca-
shire, 260 ; Lonsdale, extent of the lands of (1296–
1317), 260 ; history and extent of Salford hundred,
265; its parishes, townships, and divisions, b. ; popu-
lation of each hundred (1861), 613. •
Hurst and Higher Hurst, hamlets (Ashton-under-Lyne),
population, manufactures, places of worship, Schools,
439; barracks and mansions, 440
I
IDOLS, Saxon, ll
Income and property tax; see Property and income tax
Independents and Presbyterians, 325
Independents, number in Lancashire (1851), 258
Inns temp. Elizabeth, 194
Inquisitions, post mortem, in Ducatus Lancastriae, 46; at
Wigan (1323), 84; at Manchester (1359), 307
Invasion, alarm of (1369), 114
Irlam, or Irwellham (Eccles), hamlet and hall, 595 ; the
Greaves family and arms, ib. -
Irlam's-o'-the-Height, Pendlebury, 599 ; Episcopal chapel,
'b.
Isle of Man, granted to the earl of Northumberland, 120 ;
granted to Sir John Stanley, ºb. ; banishment of the
duchess of Gloucester to, 133 ; James, seventh earl of
Derby, retires to, 220 ; held and surrendered by Char-
lotte de Tremouille, his countess, 232
Itineraries, Roman, 3 ; of Antoninus, 4 ; of Richard of
Cirencester, ºb.
J
JAMES I. of England ascends the throne, 189 ; the Lan-
cashire gentry's address to him, ib. ; his progress from
Scotland to London, 195; his Daemonologie, 201 ; his
Lancashire progress (1617), 208; his knighting Lan-
cashire gentlemen (1617), 209; his Declaration and
Book of Sports, ib. ; he knights more Lancashire
gentlemen, 210 ; makes Lancashire baronets, ib. ; visits
Manchester (1617), 335
James Stanley, 7th earl of Derby ; see Derby, earls of
John, earl of Moreton or Mortaigne (afterwards King John),
his charter to the freeholders of Lancashire, 73 ; Magna
Carta and Carta de Foresta, 72, 73
K
RELLY, JoHN, alias Talbot, alchemist and necromancer,
199
Rempmall, or Kempenhalgh Hall (Worsley), 601
Kenyon family, 541, 542
Kersal Cell (Manchester), 400
Rersley, township of (Dean), area and population (1861),
535 ; manor, estates, waste, and moss, 542
Kill Danes (Rochdale), 482
Kist-vaens found in Tonge-with-Haulgh, 574
Knight, the Black (Ashton-under-Lyne), 426
Knights Banneret (1611), 198
knights, Lancashire, 209, 210
Knights of “The Royal Oak” in Lancashire, 237
Knights of the shire in the reign of Edward I, 90 ; of
Edward II, 92; of Edward III. 93 ; Richard II., 97 ;
Henry IV., 98; Henry W. and Henry VI., 99 ; from 7
Edward IV. to 16 Charles I. (1467-i640), 100 ; during
the Commonwealth, 101 ; II Charles II. to 30 Victoria
(1660-1865), 101 -
Knott Lanes, parochial division of (Ashton-under-Lyme),
429
Kuerden, Dr., his MS. History of Lancashire, and descrip-
tion of Manchester, 326 ; his M.S. collections, ib. note
£ntity.
6.79
L
LABOURNE, JAMES, a recusant in the New Fleet, Man-
chester, 178; convicted and executed, ºb.
Lacy, Alice de, widow of Thomas, earl of Lancaster, her
dowry forfeited, 34
LANCASHIRE, ancient names, 1 ; Roman invasion, b. ; its
people, 1-3 ; conquered by Agricola, 2 ; Roman stations
in, 3 ; Roman roads and estuaries, ib. ; the iters
and stations of Antoninus and Richard of Cirencester,
4; name temp. Alfred, 15 ; held by the Danes, ib. ;
not named in Saxon Chronicle or Domesday Survey, 16;
temp. Edward the Confessor and William the Conqueror
in Domesday Survey, 24-27; privileges to, in Magna
Carta, 72 ; forest-laws of Canute (1016), 73 ; those of
William I., b. ; charter of King John, b. ; parks, forest,
and chases of, ib. ; forest-assize at Lancaster (1286), 74;
royal warrant of William III. (1697), ib. ; judges-
itinerant in, 75; trial by ordeal abolished, ib. ; writs of
military summons, 76 ; manners and customs of its
people, 190 ; dress of nobles and ladies, ib.; of priests
and gentlemen, 191; dress of a lady temp. Elizabeth,
Žb. ; houses, gardens, orchards, herbs, fruit, 192 ; food
and meals, 193; old games in, 195; James I. in, b. ;
the plague in (1605), 196 ; witches and witchcraft in,
198; demoniacal possession in (1689), 206 ; Super-
stitious fears in sixteenth century, 207 ; baronets, 198,
210 ; in the civil war (1641 et seq.), 212 ; in 1745,
240 ; heralds, visitations of, 242 ; families of, alpha-
betical list, 243 ; geographical position of, 245 ;
climate, b. ; rainfall, 246 ; geology of, 246 ; Surface
lands and soils, 249 ; ancient forests, 251 ; mineral
products, ib. ; produce of coal, ib, ; red iron-ore, ºb. ;
building stones, ib. ; mountains, 253 ; rivers, b. ;
population, 255; ecclesiastical history of, 256 ; dioceses,
Žb. ; dissenting chapels in (1823), 257; places of
worship (1851), 258; hundreds of, 259; new boroughs
in (1867), 264; changes in parliamentary representation
of (1867), ib. ; population of, at seven censuses (1801-
1861), 612 ; area, houses, and population (1861), 613 ;
marriages, births, and deaths in (1851-1861), 614;
population of every parish and township (1801-1861),
615; ages, civil or conjugal condition and occupations of
the people of (1861), 624; valuations of property of,
for county rate (1854-1866), 627; property and
income tax returns for (1860), 634 ; magistrates of
(March 1868), 642; public officers of (1868), 649;
poor-rates and poor-relief in 1865-66, 651 ; co-operative
societies of, 652; rifle association, 653
Lancashire, South (lands between Ribble and Mersey), 15 ;
survey of, in Domesday, 24-26 ; early Norman posses-
sors, 31 ; conveyance to Randle, earl of Chester, 75 ;
the parliamentary division of the county, 102 ; elections
for, since 1832, ib. ; the division subdivided by act of
1867 into South-east and South-west Lancashire, 264;
electoral returns of South Lancashire (1865-6), 626 ;
registration of (January 1868), 627
Lancaster, barony of, 29 ; barons of, b. ; barony held by
the crown, 30 ; granted to the earl of Chester, ºb.
Lancaster, borough and town of, taken by Captain Birch
(February 1642), 219; retaken by the earl of Derby
(March 1642), ºb.
Lancaster, county palatine of (1265), 39 ; chancellors of
(1359–1831), 50 ; seal of, 54; different periods assigned
to its creation, 56; sheriffs, 57; palatinate privileges,
61 ; ecclesiastical courts, 62 ; chancery, court of, 63 ;
court of common pleas, 64; courts of inferior jurisdiction,
65; courts of general quarter-Sessions, ib. ; inferior
courts of record, of civil judicature, 67 ; hundred
courts, ib. ; records of the county, 68 ; places of their
deposit, 69 ; ecclesiastical records, 70; Lancashire a
county in 1165, 71; King John had the earldom while
earl of Mortaigne, 72 ; early parliamentary representa-
tion of, 88 ; knights of the shire (from 1295), 91 ;
boroughs of, too poor to return members, 96 ; county
members (from 1832), 102 ; number of members for
county and boroughs (since 1832), 103 ; by Representa-
tion of the People Act (1867), 264; history of Lancashire,
temp. Edward III, 104; expenses of officers of (1598),
189 ; See also LANCASHIRE
Lancaster, duchy of, 37, 108 ; grant of court of chancery,
39; treasury of, 40; court of, and Star Chamber
established, 45; revenues revert to the crown, 46;
Ducatus Lancastrice, an index to Inquisitiones post mortem
and pleadings in duchy, 46; act incorporating in and
confiscating duchy to the crown (1461), 46; act
enlarging the duchy (Philip and Mary), 47 ; book of
fees, revenues, forests and parks, benefices, etc., 48 ;
chancellors (1351-1831), 50 ; records, 52 ; depositories
of, 53 ; seal, ib. ; officers of, 54 ; Ducatus Lancastriae,
55 ; chancery court, 63 ; rolls of the duchy (1351-2-
1360-1), 110 ; records (1377-1389), 121 ; rights and
possessions of Co. Hereford added to the duchy,
130 ; proposal to abolish duchy and county palatine
courts, 233; their jurisdiction revived (1660) ib. ;
expenses of the officers (1598), 189
Lancaster, dukes of, 37; Henry first and “good duke,” ib. ;
his creation, 108 ; his grant to Whalley Abbey, and his
will, 38, 108 ; Inquisitio post mortem, and possessions,
109 ; his ducal and the regnal years, 110 ; John of
Gaunt, second duke, 39 ; styled “King of Castile and
Leon,” ib. ; favours Wickliffe, 40 ; in wars in Scotland,
41 ; his visit to Spain, b. ; his wives, ºb. ; death,
epitaph, and bequest, 42 ; Henry of Bolingbroke, third
duke, banished, 43; ascends the throne as Henry IV.
(1399), 44; by act of parliament vests the duchy in
his son Henry, prince of Wales, 44; it is vested in
Henry W. and his successors as dukes of Lancaster, 45
Lancaster, earls of, 32; Edmund Crouchback, ºb. ; Thomas,
his son,"33; his household-book (1313), 34; Henry,
brother of Thomas, 35 ; Henry, Son of Henry, last earl
and first duke, 36
Lancaster, Honor of, 28, 29 ; twice forfeited by Roger de
Poitou, 30 ; granted to the earl of Chester, ºb. ; to
the Ferrers, earls of Derby, 31 ; to Edmund Crouchback,
first earl of Lancaster, ºb.
Lancaster, house of, 133; badges of, b.
Lancaster King-of-arms, a herald's title, substituted for that
of Anjou King-of-arms, 132
Lancaster, Roger de, guarantee to, 32 and note
Lancaster, William de, baron of Kendal, 29
Lancelot du Lake and Sir Tarquin, tradition of, 10 ;
ballads of, 271 ; coin Supposed to refer to, ºb.
Land-tax (1692), 237; (1792), ib.
Langdale, General Sir Marmaduke, raises an army for the
king (1648), 228
Langley, Thomas, cardinal, lord chancellor, and bishop of
Durham, life of, 605
Lathom House, first siege of, 222 ; raised, ib. ; renewed
(July 1645), 224; surrendered (December 1645), b. ;
dismantled, b. -
680
{nNº.
Laws in old times, 195
League and covenant, 228 ; petition for, and Lancashire
gentlemen take it, ib.
League, Anti-corn-law ; see Corn-laws
Learning in the ninth century, 14
Lees and Lees Hall (Oldham), 458, 466
Leger, Sir Thomas St., commission for seizing his lands for
rebellion, 140
Lench (Bury), 514, 523
Lench, etc., township of (Bury), area and population (1861),
514
Lever, Darcy, chapelry of (Bolton), area and population,
547 ; old and new halls, 574
Lever family of Alkrington, 448
Lever, Great, township and manor of (Middleton), area and
population, 468; hall and devolution of the manor, 480
Lever, Little, township of (Bolton), area and population,
547 ; hall and house, 572 -
Lever, Sir Ashton, 448; his museum and its sale, 449
and note -
Lever, Thomas, B.D., life of, 572
Levies, military, in Lancashire, 75, 76, 79 ; of 3000 men
in Lancashire, 80 ; of 2000 men (1289), 81 ; 3000
men (1300), b. ; 700 men (1303), ib. ; 1000 men
(1307), 82; (1308-9), 83 ; 500 men (1314), ib. ; all
the able-bodied men of Lancashire between 16 and 60
(1316), b. ; 1000 men, 84; all men between 16 and
60 (1327), 104; 400 archers and 100 hobelers, 105 ;
50 men-at-arms, 300 men, and 300 archers (1339), 106 ;
all men between 16 and 60, including robbers and
other criminals (1345), 107
LEYLAND Hundred instituted, 15 ; in Domesday Survey,
26; Earl Ferrers had livery of it (1241), 31; bequeathed
to John of Gaunt, 38
Liber Regis of Henry VII, 152
Liberty, early assertion of (1066), 17
Lieutenancy, meeting of the (1570), 169 ; a MS. book of
correspondence (1582–1605) described, 182
Lieutenant, lords, first appointed (1513-14), 150 ; no-
minated by parliament (1641), 212
Linuis, the region of, the locale of Arthur's battles, 9, 10
Littleborough, hamlet of (Rochdale), a Roman station—
Roman coins, and the arm of a silver statue to victory
found there, 507; a new parish, 508; church, Pike
House, and a house inscription at Steaner Bottom, ºb. ;
the Halliwells and Beswickes, ºb.
Little Lever; see Lever, Little
Little Moor (Oldham), 458
Liveries and badges, prohibition of, 62
Liverpool, a ship taken at (1642), 220 ; earl of Derby's
unsuccessful attempt to regain the magazines, ºb. ; taken
by Prince Rupert, after three weeks' siege, 223; Surrenders
to the Parliamentary forces under Sir John Meldrum
(November 1644), ºb. ; first record of members of parlia-
ment for the borough (1295), 91 ; members elected in
reigns of Edward I. and Edward II., 96; the long-
abandoned franchise resumed (1547), 100 ; the only old
borough in Lancashire of modern importance, 102 ;
taillage of the town (1226-7), 105; chantries of, 159; the
town falling into decay (1544), ib. ; archdeaconry and
rural deanery of, 256 ; population and rental of the
parliamentary borough in 1851 and 1861, 263 ; Re-
presentation of the People Act (1867) gives the borough
a third member, 261 ; area, houses, and population of
the borough (1861), 613; number of persons to the acre
in the borough, ib. note ; area, population (1851 and
1861, and rateable value of the parish (1867), 614;
registered marriages, births, and deaths in the parish in
ten years (1851-1860), b. ; area and population of the
parish at Seven censuses (1801-1861), 615 ; houses and
population of each township in the parliamentary and
municipal borough (1861), 623 ; occupations of the
people in the borough, 626 ; valuations of parish
(1854 and 1866) for county rate, 631 ; valuation of
poor-law parish (1866), 632; valuation of the townships
composing the borough (1866), 633; gross annual value
of property in parish assessed under schedules A and B
of Income Tax Act, and net profits under schedule D
(1860), 638; sums levied as poor-rate, total expended,
and amount expended in poor-relief only, in the parish
(1866), 651
Liverpool Castle, erection of, 21, 29
Lollards, the, and Wickcliffe patronised by John of Gaunt,
40 ; the first English Lollard martyr (1401), 129; Lord
Cobham and others executed, ib.
Lomax Fold, or Lever House (Bolton), 572
Longovicus of the Wotitia, 3
Longworth, township of (Bolton), area and population
(1861), 547 ; description of, 577; the hall and the
manorial owners, ºb. - -
LONSDALE Hundred, Domesday Survey of, 26 ; vaccaries
and forests of, granted to Edmund Crouchback, 32, and
notes; military operations in (1643), 220 ; area, houses,
and population of (1861), 613; valuations for county
rate (1854 and 1866) of all townships in Lonsdale North
of the Sands, and Lonsdale South of the Sands, 628 ;
property and income-tax returns (1860) for all townships
in Lonsdale North, 638; and Lonsdale South, 639 ;
magistrates acting in and for, and resident in the hundred
(March 1868), 643
Lostock, hamlet of (Eccles), and hall, 595
Lostock, township of (Bolton), area and population (1861),
547 ; description of, and its devolution, 581 ; Lostock
Hall, ºb.
Lovel, Lord, rebellion of, 143
Loyalty loan, early, by clergy and merchants (1282), 78
M
MACHINERY, petition against (1482), 138
Malkin Tower (or Hoarstones), in Pendle, the rendezvous
of the Lancashire witches, 201, 202, 204, 207
Manchester, ancient deanery and rectory, 279 ; rural
deanery of, in the 12th century, and its modern division,
653
Manchester barony and manor, 272 ; its barons and lords ;
the Greslets, 274 ; charter (1301), 275 ; the De la
Warres, 276 ; the Wests, 277 ; the Mosleys, ib. ;
armorial bearings of Greslet and La Warre, 278 ; attempt
to purchase the manor (1808), 341 ; its sale to the cor-
poration (1845), b.
Manchester, diocese of (1847), 292 ; its archdeaconries
and deaneries, ib. ; its first bishop (1847), b. ; chapelries
and districts in 3 years (October 1866), 293, 654 ; area,
houses, and population, churches, sittings, and free sit-
tings in the diocese (1861), 613 ; rural deaneries in
(November (1867), 653; statistical notes of, 656 ; popu-
lation of (1851 and 1861), b. ; consecrated and licensed
churches and chapels, and Peel districts (1848-1867),
Žb. ; new churches and sittings, cost, etc. (1848-1867),
(b., 657 ; clergy in (December 16, 1866), 657; number
Hºmiſex. - 681
of ordinations of priests and of deacons (1848-1867),
&b.
Manchester parish and collegiate church and Cathedral,
280 ; its collegiation (1421), ib. ; the college foundation,
281 ; the church and its chapels, 282 ; early wardens,
Žb. ; a sanctuary, 283 ; dissolution of the college by
Bdward VI. (1547), 284 ; its re-establishment by
Philip and Mary (1553-4), 285 ; wardens, ib. ; Queen
|Elizabeth's foundation charter (1578), ib. ; charter of
Charles I. (1635), 286 ; wardens on this foundation, ib.;
the 3d Randle Holmes' notes, ib. ; wardens after the Re-
storation (1660), b. ; list of wardens (1421-1847), 287 ;
deans, İb.; parish division act (1850), 288 ; cathedral
clergy (1867), ib. ; cathedral edifice (1867), 288 ; its
restorations (1814–1828), 289 ; later restorations
(1845-67), ib.; rebuilding the tower, 290 ; peal of 10
bells, 291 ; cost of last restorations, ib.; yearly financial
statement (1866), 299 ; panic in the church (1815),
342; marriages at (1867), 662 : monthly returns of
marriages (1865, 1866, 1867), 663 ; marriages on each
day of the week (1867), ºb.
MANCHESTER PARISH, history of, 267; in Roman times, ib.;
Roman remains and inscriptions, 268; Saxon remains,
271 ; Saxon Castle and legend of Sir Tarquin and
Lancelot du Lake, ºb. ; Manchester in Saxon times, 272 ;
ancient churches and deanery, ib. ; the baronial residence,
Žb.; early ecclesiastical history, 279 ; churches of St.
Michael and St. Mary, ib. ; parish churchwardens and
sidesmen, 347; ancient mansions and halls, 400 ; an-
cient chapelries, 401 ; worthies, 403 ; area and popu-
lation of the parish (1861), and rateable value of pro-
perty in (1867), 614; the townships in the (old) parish,
their area and population (1861), 617, 618 ; registered
marriages, births, and deaths in the parish, or union, in
10 years (1851-60), 615 ; property and income tax re-
turns for every township in the parish and division
(1860), 639, 640 ; poor-rates levied and expended, and
poor-relief (1866), 651 ; amount of poor-relief (1861
and 1866) 652; area and population of every township
in the (old) parish (1861), 657
Manchester town, borough, and city ; a market-town, not
a borough (1359), 307; gallows, pillory, tumbrel, and
cuckstool, ib. ; woollen trade, 308 ; the duke of Clarence
and the earl of Warwick visit it (1469), ib.; Henry VII.
visits it (1495), b. ; its fountain and conduit, ºb.; Le-
land's visit (1538), b. ; Camden’s (; 1582), 314 ; the
town (1580), 315 ; dearth (1585-6), ib.; printing Mar-
prelate tracts, ib. ; new ecclesiastical commission, İb. ;
siege of (1642), 215, 320 ; Dr. Kuerden's description
of, 326 ; Dr. Aikin's (1690-1720), ib. ; Dr. Stukeley's
(1724), 328; in the rebellion of 1715, 242, 329; of
1745, 241 ; rebel regiment, b.; Sought to be made a
borough (1731), 328, and (1763), 334 ; Mr. Humphrey's
description of, 345 ; number of inhabitants at various
periods(1588–1861),346; bills of mortality (1580–1832),
347; population of parliamentary and municipal bo-
roughs of Manchester and Salford (1861), ib. note ; par-
liamentary representation of, 323 ; during Common-
wealth, 324; under Reform Act (1832), 348; electors
in 1832 and 1865, 349 ; elections (1832-1865), b. ;
Bepresentation of People Act (1867), 261, 263 ; news-
papers (1719), 327 ; (1730), 328; (1737–9), 329;
(1719-1861), 394 ; (1867), 395 ; rainfall (14 years),
382 ; (in 1867), 668 ; meteorological observations of
Dr. Dalton (47 years), 383 ; soils, 384; Sanitary condi-
tion (1851-61), ib.; races (1730-60), 328; (1867), 396 ;
street improvements (1766), 336 ; Market Street
(1821-1836), 345; (1866-67), 390 ; volunteers (1777),
336 ; 72d Manchester Regiment at Gibraltar, 336 ;
volunteers (1804), 340 ; (1859), 360 ; (1867), 396 ;
police (1791), 338; (1824), ib.; (1867), 375; old
feudal government, 369 ; charter of incorporation
(1838), ib.; Corporation arms, 278 ; borough wards, council,
and committees, 370 ; local acts, royal charters, and
grants, 370; borough-reeves and constables (1800-1846),
370 ; mayors (1838-1867), 371 ; county court, 375;
court of bankruptcy, ºb.; petty sessions, or police court,
7b.; Court of quarter and intermediate Sessions, ºb.; new
police courts, 376 ; city gaol, (1850), 376 ; execu-
tions : George Russell (1798), 361 ; James Burrows
(1866), b.; of three Fenians (1867), 668; municipal
receipts and expenditure (1865-6), 376 ; estimate
(1867-8), 377 ; board of guardians, 378 ; out-door re-
relief, ºb.; pauper interments, ºb.; old workhouse (1731)
and workhouse hospital, ib.; Workhouse at Crumpsall,
379 ; house of industry, ib.; out-door school, ib.; epide-
mic hospital, b. ; industrial Schools at Swinton, ib. ;
township churchwardens and sidesmen, overseers, etc.,
'b. ; charities, 202 ; town-hall, King Street, 380 ; new
town-hall, Albert Square, b. ; town-halls in Chorlton-on-
Medlock, Hulme, and Cheetham, 381 ; water-supply
and works, 386 ; fires and fire-brigade, 388 ; gas and
works, ib. ; markets, 389 ; fairs, 390 ; Sewers, 391 ;
hackney-coaches, ib. ; bridges, ib. ; railway and telegraph
Companies and stations, ºb. ; statue-monuments, 392 ;
banks, 392 ; bank of Manchester (1842), 350 ; churches
and Episcopal chapels in Manchester and Salford (1867),
293 ; churches (1865-66), 294; other places of worship,
Žb. ; Sunday-schools (1784), 337 ; Sunday and other
Schools, 296 ; military and barracks, militia and stores,
396 ; Volunteers, ºb. ; races, theatres, assembly-rooms,
and clubs, ib. ; manufactures, chamber of commerce, in-
land bonding and customs, exchange, 397 ; public parks,
Peel park, 398 ; Queen's park and Philip's park, 399 ;
Bellevue, Pomona, and Moorfield public gardens, 400 ;
old mansions and halls, ib. ; old families, 401 note ;
necrology or table of deaths in 19th century, 418 ;
houses and population in each township in the municipal
and the parliamentary city (1861), 623 ; occupations of
the people in the city (1861), 626 ; valuation for county
rate of the township (1854 and 1866), 630 ; valuation
of the poor-law parish (1866), 632; of the townships
in and the city (1866), 633 ; co-operative societies,
members, amount of goods bought and sold, and profits
realised (1866), 652; court of record expenses (1865-6),
653; mayor (1867-8), b,; electoral returns as to par-
liamentary and municipal city (1865-6), 657; parlia-
mentary election of one member (November 1867),
658 ; Owens College, will of John Owens, trustees,
benefactions, 659 ; officers of the college, scholarships,
and prizes, 660 ; entrance, exhibitions, ‘ college union,
proposed chair of engineering, and proposed new build-
ing for the college, 661 ; police statistics (1867), 661 ;
registered births and deaths in Manchester and Salford
(1867), 662 ; Natural History Society and its museum,
663; dissolution of the Society, and proposed transfer
of the museum to Owens College, 664; public free
libraries, report of (1867), 664; Portico Library and
newsroom report (1867), 664, 665 ; free grammar
School, gift of three houses to, 665; botanical and horti-
4 S
682
#nbcy.
cultural society (January 1868), 666; public park for
Hulme, b. ; Chorlton union statistics (1861-1867), ib.;
numbers of poor relieved, total cost and average cost per
head in Chorlton, Manchester, and Salford unions, out and
in door (1860 and 1866), 667 ; Manchester and Salford
nurse-training institutions (1868), b. ; convalescent hos-
pital, Cheadle Hall, 668; clinical hospital, Park Place,
Cheetham, b. ; the Fenian outrage on the Hyde Road;
Special commission of assize, trials, conviction, and exe-
cution of three of the prisoners, ib ; rainfall (1867),
668 ()
MANCHESTER : ITS PUBLIC INSTITUTIONs, BUILDINGS, AND
SOCIETIES.–Religious: Parish and collegiate church, now
the cathedral; other churches, chapels, and places of
Worship, 293, 294; Sunday schools (1785), 337; vari-
Ous Societies, 305. Benevolent and Charitable: Mayor's
Charities, 302; others, 304; commercial clerks (1802),
provident, 305; sick and benevolent and friendly
Societies, 305; humane society (1791), 338; Jewish
board of guardians of the poor, 379 note; nurse-train-
ing institution, 667. Medical: Royal Infirmary, dis-
pensary, lunatic hospital, etc., 305; St. Mary's Hospital,
ºb. ; eye institution, ib.; lock hospital, 306 ; various
others, 306 ; Sanitary association, 384; convalescent
hospital, 668; clinical hospital, ib. Literary, Scientific,
and Art : Chetham Library, 299, 301; Chetham Society
(1843), 341 ; libraries, 395 ; royal exchange library,
395 ; Portico library and news-room, 395, 664; law
library, 395 ; free libraries, 395, 664; literary and
philosophical society (1781), 337 (1867), 393; Athe-
naeum, 393 ; Manchester Mechanics' Institution (1825),
'b.; Cooper Street (1827), ºb.; David Street (1857), ib. ;
other mechanics' institutions, ib. ; natural history society
and its museum, 393 ; (1867-8), 663, 664; geological
society, 393; royal institution (1830), ib. ; art treasures
exhibition (1857), 357; the public press (1719), 327 ;
(1730), 328; (1737–39), 329; (1719-1795), 394; (1867),
395 ; periodicals, 395; botanical and horticultural society,
393, 666. Educational : Free grammar school founded
(1524), 296 ; its feoffees, funds, rules, and revenues, 297;
exhibitions, ºb. ; scholarships, 298; new scheme for
(1849), b. ; (1865-67) ib., feoffees (1867), 299 ; high-
masters (1529-1867), ib. ; gift to, 665; Chetham's
Hospital school, 299 ; purchase of building and list of
governors, 300 ; seal and arms, 301 ; deaf and dumb
institution, ib. ; Henshaw's blind asylum, ºb. ; home
missionary board, memorial hall (1864), 361 ; (1866),
394 ; other educational institutions, 422 ; Owen's Col-
lege, 659; will of John Owens, trustees and benefactions,
ib. ; officers, scholarships, and prizes, 660 ; exhibitions,
661. Commercial : Exchange (1729), 328; later and
present royal exchange (1867), 392, 397 ; intended ex-
change, 292, 398 ; corn exchange (1837), 350 ; chamber
of commerce (1820), 397; inland bonding warehouses
and custom-house (1844), 397. Social and Recreative :
Co-operative societies and stores, 305; baths and wash-
houses, 306; United Kingdom Alliance, ib.; ancient foot-
paths association, ib.; musical Societies and associations,
ib., 350; Shaksperean Society, ºb. ; athletic, gymnastic,
cricket, and golf clubs, theatres, 351, 396 ; assembly-
rooms, ib. ; club-houses, ºb. ; public parks, 351, 398,
666 ; baths and wash-houses (1854), 356 ; public gar-
dens, 400 ; Free Trade Hall, “Pavilion’ (1840), 367;
(1843), 350, 366; (1856), 350, 392; memorial hall
(1864), 361; (1866), 394; races and race-courses (1730-
1760), 328; (1867), 396. Law and Justice : Assize
courts, Strangeways (1864), 372; daily police court,
Bridge Street, 375 ; new police courts, 376 ; borough
gaol (1850), 352 ; new city gaol, 376. Municipal, etc.:
Post office, Brown Street, 382 ; town-hall, King Street,
380; new one, Albert Square, ib. ; chief fire station, 388;
gasworks, ib. ; Smithfield and other markets, 389 ;
bridges, 350 ; infantry and cavalry barracks, 396 ; old
workhouse, Strangeways (1731), now workhouse hospital,
378 ; new workhouse, Crumpsall (1858), 379 ; house
of industry, ib.; industrial Schools, Swinton, ib.; town-
halls of Chorlton-On-Medlock, Hulme, and Cheetham,
381 ; gasworks, 388 ; waterworks, 386; fire-brigade,
388 ; Smithfield, central, and other markets, 389 ;
bridges, 350-52, 391 ; sewers, 390 ; hackney coaches,
391 ; railway and telegraph companies and stations, ºb.;
banks, 392
Manchester, annals of (1547-1600), 308; (1605-1693),
316 ; (1700-1800), 327 ; (1801–1867), 340-363;
celebration in Manchester of coronation of George III.
(1761), 334; of George IV. (1821), 345; musical festi-
val (1836), 350
Malone, William (1592), 316
Manners and customs of the people of Lancashire, 190
Maresey, Roger de, his conveyance of the lands between
Ribble and Mersey, temp. Henry III., 75
Marriages, births, and deaths, in superintendent registrars'
districts, in ten years (1851-60), 614 ; ditto in Man-
chester and Salford (1867), 662 ; marriages at Manches-
ter Cathedral (1867), ºb.
Marsh, George, the Lancashire martyr, 163; life of, 539
Martyrs, Lancashire, 161, 162, 163, 308, 309
Mary, Queen, her acts, 161 ; Lancashire martyrs in her
reign, 161, 308, 309 ; her marriage with Philip II. of
Spain, 162; persecution of Protestants, ºb.; her death,
163, 312
Mary Queen of Scots, 168; her imprisonment at Tutbury,
&b.; conspiracy in her favour, and “Rising in the North,”
169; its dispersion and executions, ºb.; her trial, sen-
tence, and execution (1587), 184
Mayors of boroughs in Salford Hundred (1867-8), 653
Meals and their hours, 193
Members of parliament for the county (1295 to 1867),
91-102
Meteorological observations of Dalton, 383 ; rainfall at
various places in Lancashire, 246 ; at Manchester, 383 ;
barometer and thermometer, 47 years (1794-1840),
383
Methodists, their places of worship and number of sittings,
in Lancashire (1851), 258
Middleton, de, family of, 468
MIDDLETON PARISH, history and population of, 468 ;
manor and its devolution, ºb. ; parish church, 469 ;
brasses in church and arms in chancel window, 470 ;
Assheton chapel in, b. ; rectory and rectors, 471 ;
charities and grammar School, ib. ; other charities, 472 ;
Middleton Hall, 473; Rhodes, 477; memoir of William
Assheton, D.D., 478 ; Birtle-cum-Bamford, 479 ; Hop-
wood township and family, ib.; Ainsworth township,
'b.; Great Lever township and manor, 480 ; notes on,
by D. Rasbotham, 481 ; Great Lever Hall, ib.; Thorn-
ham estate, ºb. ; advowson of Middleton, b. ; Middleton
town, 473; local government and accounts of Com-
mittees, ib. ; police, post-Office, churches, chapels, and
schools, ib, ; co-operative society, ib. ; trade and manu-
#nbcy,
683
factures, agricultural, floral, and horticultural Societies,
burial-ground, 475 ; local annals, 476
Military musters (1553), 164; (1559), 166; (1574),
I 71-175
Military summons directed to the sheriff of Lancashire
(1276), 76; (1282), 79 ; (1297), 80 ; (1298-9), 81;
(1306–7-8), 82; (1310), 83
Militia, quota for the (1637), 237; (1761), ib.; (1802), ib.
Mill, soke, and customs, 427
Ministers ejected and silenced (1662), list of, 236
Milnrow, township of (Rochdale), description of, 505 ; its
church, ib. ; residence of John Collier (‘Tim Bobbin’),
Žb.
Monasteries, visitation of (1536), 152 ; report of the
royal commissioners, ºb. note ; dissolution of the smaller
houses, ºb. ; annual value, etc., of Lancashire religious
houses, 153 ; progress of the suffragans in visitation in
Tancashire (c. 1538), ºb. ; insurrections in Lincolnshire
and the north of England, caused by the suppression
of, ºb. ; the Pilgrimage of Grace, ºb.; royal warrants for
the suppression of the rebellion (1536), 154 ; dispersion
of the rebel army, 155 ; a second insurrection, b. ;
executions of the rebel leaders, ib. ; executions of abbots
and monks at Lancaster and Whalley, 156 ; dissolution
of the larger monasteries, ib. ; Surrender of Furness
Abbey (1546), ºb. ; original foundation, orders and
estimated income of the Lancashire, 157 ; annual
revenue and value of the dissolved houses in England,
158 ; annual revenue of all the monastic houses, classed
in Orders, ib. note
Monastic institutions, introduction of, 12
Monk, General (George), restores Charles II. and is created
duke of Albemarle, with the gift of the Honor of
Clitheroe, 234
Monks Hall (Eccles), 594 ; find of six thousand silver
pennies (1864), ib.
Monteagle, Lord, anonymous letter to, on the gunpowder
plot, 196 ; has a grant of crown lands and a pension,
197; his epitaph by Ben Jonson, ºb.
Moravian settlement at Fairfield, 444
More, Sir Thomas, sends a Lutheran to the stake, 151 ; is
convicted of high treason and beheaded, b.
Mosley family, lords of the manor of Manchester, 277
Moss, Hough (Manchester), eruption of (1633), 317
Mossley and Mossley Bottom (Ashton-under-Lyne), 438
Moston, township of (Manchester), area and population
(1861), 657
Mountains and hills of Lancashire, 253
usbury, township of (Bury), area and population (1861),
514, 523 ; Musbury Tor, b.
Mule, spinning, the invention of, 574
Museum, Sir Ashton Lever's, 449 and note
Muster, military (1553), 164; (1559), 166 ; (1574), 171
N
NAVIGATION, inland, 327.
Nevill, Testa de, analysis of 86
New Bailey Prison (Salford) founded (1787), 337; opened
(1790), 338; extended (1816), 376
Newcastle, earl of, summons Manchester (1643), 321
Newhall Hey, village, part of a township (Bury), 514, 523
New gaol for the Salford Hundred (Manchester, 1867), 338,
376 - -
Newton (Heath) chapelry of (Manchester), 301 ; area and
population (1861), 657
Newton, hundred of, in Domesday Survey, 25; merged in
the hundred of West Derby, 259
Newton, the baron of, and the death of Mr. Hoghton at
Lea, 187
Norfolk, duke of, his conspiracy (1571), 170 ; execution
(1572), ib.
North Meols, right of fishing there, III
Northumbria–Lancashire a part of the Saxon kingdom of,
10 ; kings of, ib.
Nowell, dean, favours puritanical doctrines, 168; preaches
at Manchester, 312
O
OCCUPATIONS of the people of Lancashire (1861), 624 ;
occupations in the borough of Liverpool, 626 ; occu-
pations in the city of Manchester and borough of Sal-
ford, ºb.
Officers, public, of the county palatine of Lancashire
(1868), 649
Ogden, Samuel, D.D., life of, 408
Okey, John, monumental inscription, 551
Oldham, borough and chapelry, 453 ; its townships, area,
and population (1861), b. ; St. Mary's Church and its
chapels, 454 ; the new church and incumbents, ib.;
places of worship in 1851 (note) and 1866, 455; gram-
mar School, ib.; charities, 456; fire at Union Mill (1834)
—fourteen lives lost, b. ; market, b. ; name and early
possessors, 456; the Oldham and Tetlow families, ib.;
devolution of the manor, 457; memoir of Hugh Oldham,
bishop of Exeter, b. ; quota of men temp. Elizabeth,
458 ; Lees Hall, b. ; survey (1640), ºb. ; manufactures
and coal-mines, b. ; local government, 459 ; incorpora-
tion of the municipal borough (1849), its population,
Wards, buildings, etc., b. ; corporation committees, ex-
mayors, town-hall, police, magistrates, and courts, gas
and water works, b, ; borough rate and borough trea-
Surer's accounts, 460 ; improvement act and cemeteries,
ºb. ; Alexandra Park, 461 ; post-office, banks, and rail-
Ways, ºb. ; fairs, Victoria Market, Lyceum, school of art,
Mechanics' Institution, 462 ; institutions, volunteers,
and local events and occurrences, 463 ; poor-law union,
markets, parliamentary borough and elections since 1832,
464 ; townships of Royton and Chadderton, 465 ; me-
moir of Lawrence Chadderton, D.D., b.; Lees, Lees Hall,
and Bent Hall, 466; Crompton, İb.; Crompton Hall,
467
Orchards and gardens, 192
Originalia Memoranda, duchy of Lancashire (1325-1419),
127
Ordeal, abolition of the trial by (1219), 75
Ordsall Hall (Salford), 400
Ordsall Rock, 271
Orrel, feudal exemptions, in Domesday Survey, 25, 28
P
‘PAPISTS' in Lancashire, 316
Parks in Lancashire (temp. Elizabeth), 314
Parishes (58) in Lancashire taxed (1730), 115; in Salford
hundred, 265
Parliamentary representation of the county, history of the,
88, 103 ; ancient parliaments, 88, 90 ; reform parlia-
ment of Oxford (1258), 89 ; its acts, 89, 90 ; first writ
for payment of expenses of members, 90 ; opposition by
Henry IV. and Prince Henry to reform of parliament,
'b.; the four oldest Lancashire boroughs, ºb.; elections of
684
£ntity,
knights of the shire temp. Edward I., 91 ; first Lanca-
shire parliamentary writ (1297), b.; returns under Ed-
ward II, 92; a high sheriff alone electing county mem-
bers, ib.; returns under Edward III., ib. ; annual and
shorter parliaments, 94; writs directed to the duke of
Lancaster, 95 ; a false return made by the sheriff, and
the election declared void, ib.; number of temporal and
spiritual peers in parliament (1346), 96; Lancashire
boroughs cease to return members on the ground of de-
bility and poverty, ºb. ; wages of 2s. daily to members,
b. ; wages withheld, 97; Lancashire members under
Richard II., b. ; writs addressed not to the sheriff, but
to John of Gaunt, ºb. ; county members under Henry
IV., and writs again addressed to the sheriff, 98 ; the
‘lack-learning parliament, 99 ; members under Henry
W., b. ; under Henry VI., b.; qualification of county
electors fixed, b. ; members from 7 Edward IV. to 16
Charles I. (1467–1640), 100 ; four Lancashire boroughs
resume their franchise, and Queen Elizabeth creates two
new ones (Newton and Clitheroe), ºb. ; nomination-bo-
roughs, ib.; members during the Commonwealth, 101;
members from 11 Charles II. to 2 William IV.
(1660-1831); members returned since Reform Act
(1832-1865), 102 ; changes in the county and borough
representation of Lancashire by the act, 103 ; by the
Representation of the People Act (1867), 264; summary
of that act and its principal clauses, 261 ; register of
county electors for North and South Lancashire (January
1, 1868), 627; parliamentary electoral statistics of
Lancashire, and of north and south divisions (1865-6),
626
Parliament during the civil war; ‘the Long Parliament,’
211 ; Lancashire members in it, b. ; its contest with
Charles I., 212 ; thanks sent to Lancashire, 221 ;
‘Pride's Purge, 231 ; the ‘Rump' parliament, ib.
Pastimes and festivals, guising, 428 ; rushbearing, 503
Patricroft (Eccles), 593 ; Bridgewater foundry, Christ
Church, b.
Peace rejoicings in Manchester (1814), 342
Peel, Sir Robert, the 1st baronet, 519 and note
Peel, Sir Robert, the statesman, 519 note
Peel, two halls so named, Peel-Yates and Peel-Kenyon
(dean), 541 *
Pendlebury, township of (Eccles), area and population
(1861), 582 ; Maypole and games, 591 ; description of
township, 598 ; Agecroft Hall, 599 ; Irlams-o'-th'-
Height and church, b.
Pendleton, township of (Eccles), area and population (1861),
582 ; town-hall, 382 ; church, 588; Maypole, 591 ;
township and devolution of the manor, 598 ; working-
people's association, 665
Pendle, witches of, 201-205
Penwortham, Domesday Survey of, 26
Periods in Lancashire history ; British, 1 ; Roman, 2-7 ;
Saxon and Danish, 8-20 ; Norman, 21
Pestilence ; see Plague
‘Peterloo’ (Manchester), radical meetings in (1816, 1817),
343; (16th August 1819), ib.
Philip and Mary, 45, 100
‘Pilgrimage of Grace’ (1536), 153 ; its dissolution, 155 ;
executions of rebels, ib.
Pilkington, family of, the tower or Stand in Pilkington,
448; their forfeited estates (1485), 516 note
Pilkington, family of Rivington, 579
Pilkington, James, D.D., bishop of Durham, life of, 579
*
Pilkington, tradition of the mower, 448 note ; story of
Pilkington of Rhodes, ib. note
Pilsworth, township of (Middleton), area and population
(1861), 468
Plague in Lancashire : pestilence (1349), 107; “sweating
sickness’ (1485 and 1500), 143 ; ‘sore sickness’ (1565),
312 and note ; plague (1605), 196; plague-stones at
Stretford (Manchester), 312 note .
Plantagenet (Edward, earl of Warwick), the last male, his
execution (temp. Henry VII), 147 and note
Plantagenet, Henry ; see Henry IV.
Plot, gunpowder, 196; Robert Cecil’s letter, 197; error
that the king discovered, ib. ; letter to Lord Monteagle,
196 ; his reward, and epitaph by Ben Jonson, 197
Plot, the Lancashire (1694), 237 ; trials at Manchester,
2.38 --
Plumpton Clough (Oldham), ancient iron forge in, 465
Poictou, Roger de, his land in the Domesday Survey, 27;
his manors and their value, 28 ; built the castle of
Lancaster, 30 ; forfeits his possessions, ib. ; the Honor of
Lancaster restored to him, temp. William II., again
alienated and he banished (1102), ib.
Poor-law, the earliest (1550), 160
Poor-law unions ; Manchester (union and township), 378 ;
Salford, Chorlton, and Prestwich, 379 ; Chorlton, sta-
tistics of (various years), 666 ; twenty-six Lancashire
unions, population of (1851 and 1861), and rateable value
(1867), 614; marriages, births, and deaths in same in
ten years (1851-1860), and increase or decrease of popu-
lation in each in the interval, ib.
Poor-rates and relief (1865-66) in United Kingdom, 650 ;
sums levied and expended, and amount of relief in Che-
shire and Lancashire unions (1865-66), 651 ; per cent-
age of rates expended in relief in Cheshire and Lanca-
shire, b. ; relief expenditure in fifteen of the largest and
most distressed Lancashire unions (1861 and 1866), 652
Population of the four new parliamentary divisions of Lanca-
shire (1867), 263 ; of the new and old boroughs (1867),
Žb. ; of the new boroughs of Burnley and Staleybridge,
264; of Manchester and Salford at various periods from
temp. Edward VI, to 1861, 346 ; Manchester bills of
mortality (births, marriages, and burials), (1850-1832),
347 ; the same in decades, 348; population of Lanca-
shire compared with Middlesex and Yorkshire, 612 ;
Lancashireat the seven censuses (1801-1861),and increase
in the intervals, ºb.; area, houses, and population of the
diocese of Manchester (1861), 613 ; area, houses, and
population of the county—its hundreds, city, and bo-
roughs (1861), ºb.; population of large towns compared,
and numbers in each to the acre, ib. note; area, number of
parishes in and population of twenty-six poor-law unions
in Lancashire (1851 and 1861) and rateable value (1867),
614 ; registered marriages, births, and deaths in Same
unions in ten years (1851-1860), and increase or decrease
of population in each in the interval, ºb.; area and popu-
lation of every parish, township, and place in Lancashire
at seven censuses (1801-1861), 615-622 ; houses and po-
pulation of each sex in city, parliamentary and municipal
boroughs of Lancashire (1861), 623 ; numbers of the
people of Lancashire at different ages (1861), 624;
numbers of each sex unmarried, married, and widowed,
Žb.; numbers of people in Lancashire in various occupa-
tions (1861), ib.; in borough of Liverpool, 626 ; in city
of Manchester and borough of Salford, b,; population of
northern and Southern parliamentary divisions of Lan-
łmbex.
685
cashire (1831 and 1861), area and population (1851
and 1861) of townships classed under the several hun-
dreds, 628 ; same for hundred of Lonsdale, ºb.; Amoun-
derness, ib. ; Blackburn, 629 ; Leyland, b. ; Salford,
630; West Derby, 631 ; summary of the hundreds and
total of county (1851 and 1861), 632 ; population of
the diocese of Manchester (1861) and of consolidated
chapelries, 654; of district chapelries and districts,
655; of the deaneries and the diocese (1851 and 1861),
656 ; area and population of each township in the (old)
parish of Manchester (1861), 657; population (1866)
computed of parliamentary city of Manchester, b. ; of
parliamentary borough of Salford, 658 ; of parliamentary
borough of Oldham, 659 ; Same as to other boroughs
(see the boroughs respectively)
Presbyterian certifying ministers, 221 ; persecution of,
236-7, 325; places of worship in Lancashire (1851), 258
Presbyteries, classical, or presbyterical classes in Lancashire
(1646), 226
Preston, county meeting, Royalist, on Preston Moor (June
1642), 214; muster of Royalists at Preston Moor (July
1642), 215; Royalist meeting at, to raise men and money
(December 1642), 217 ; taken by Parliamentary force
under Sir John Seaton (February 1643), 218 ; retaken
by the earl of Derby by assault (March 1643), 219 ;
battle of (August 1648), Cromwell defeating General
Langdale and the duke of Hamilton, 229, 323
PRESTWICH-CUM-OLDHAM PARISH, history of, 446 ; the
Langleys, ºb. ; valuation of Robert Langley's manors, etc.
(1561), ib. note ; transfers of the manor, 447-8 ; Heaton
estates, ib.; Pilkingtons of Stand, 448 ; Pilkington tra-
ditions, ib. notes; Levers of Alkrington, ib, ; area and
population of the parish (1861), 449; parish church,
449 ; churches and chapels, 450 ; advowson, ib. ; old
hall at Stand, 451 ; rectory and rectors, ib.; Stand
church, b.; Unsworth, ib.; charities in the parish, b.;
chapelry of Oldham, 453—(see also Oldham, Borough,
and Chapelry)
Prestwich poor-law union, 379
Prices, chronologieal table of (1202-1670), 76; average of
wheat, etc. (1611-1830), 77
Proclamation of William III. for the preservation of vert
and Venison in Lancashire forests (1697), 74 ; of Henry
VIII. on threatened Scotch invasion, 151; of Queen
Elizabeth against the Spanish invasion (1588), 185
Protestant dissenters: chapels in Lancashire (1851), 258
Property and income tax returns for Lancashire in schedules
A, B, and D (1860), 634; for places in hundred of
Amounderness, 635 ; in Blackburn hundred, ºb.; in
Bolton division, 637; in Clitheroe borough, b. ; in
Lancaster borough, b.; in Leyland hundred, b, ; in
Liverpool borough, 638; in Lonsdale hundred, North of
the Sands, ib. ; South of the Sands, 639 ; in Manchester
division, ib.; in Middleton division, 640 ; in Ormskirk
division, ib.
Pulle, William del, of Liverpool, his rape of Lady Boteler
(1436), 187
Puritans and Brownists, persecution of (1593), 188 ; Puri-
tans favoured by Dean Nowell, 312
Q
QUAKERS' or Friends' meeting-houses in Lancashire (1851),
258
Quarlton, township of (Bolton), area and population (1851),
547 ; manor and township, 576
R
RADCLIFFE PARISH, history of, 528 ; named in Domesday,
the Radcliffes of the Tower, license to embattle it (1403),
Žb.; devolution of the manor, the name, parish church
edifice, monuments, 529; window and tablet, 530;
living, advowson, rectory and rectors, 531 ; episcopal
and other chapels, charities, ib.; Radcliffe Tower and its
remains, local government, Whitefield, tradition of the
Radcliffe tragedy, 532 ; area and population of the
parish, manufactures, fairs, reservoir, life of Warden
Wroe, 533
Railways: Manchester and Liverpool (1825-30), 346 ;
Manchester and Bolton (1838), 350; Manchester and
Leeds (1840), 350 ; its extension to Victoria station,
Manchester (1843), 351 ; Liverpool and Manchester
Railway extension to Victoria station (1844), 251
Rasbotham, Dorning, esq., notice of him, his writings and
residence, arms and family, 542; his description of
Horwich Moors, Winter Hill, the Hanging or Giant's
Stone, Egbert Den, and Dane's Dike, 544; of Counting
Hill and Wilder Lads, 545
Rebellions: temp. Henry VIII., “Pilgrimage of Grace, (1536),
153 ; temp. Elizabeth, “Rising in the North, 169;
of the dukes of Norfolk and Northumberland (1571),
170 ; temp. George I. in favour of the Pretender (1715),
239, 327 ; temp. George II. (1745), 240 ; trials and
executions of rebels, 241 ; the rebels in Manchester,
329, 332, and notes; English officers and volunteers,
332 note ; officers of the Manchester regiment, b.
note -
Records of the duchy, returns as to (1800 and 1810), 52,
53 ; depositories of, 53
Records of the county palatine, 68 ; depositories, 69
Records, ecclesiastical, Lancashire, 69 ; depositories, 70
Recusants, Roman Catholic (1580), 176-179; papers re-
lating to, 179-181
Redvales (Bury) and the Starkies, 516
Redvales, Lower (Bury), a mansion of the Allens (1628),
5 16
Reform, parliamentary, first dawn of, 89 ; parliament of
Oxford, b.; the act of 1832, 103; act of 1867, 261
Representation of the People Act (1867), Summary of, and
principal clauses, 261-263
Repeal of the Corn-laws; see Corn-laws
Representation, parliamentary, origin of, 88 ; history of,
88-103 ; see Parliamentary representation
Rerigonium or Rigodunum, a Roman station (Ribchester), 3
and note
Rhodes, hamlet of (Middleton), its print-works, population,
library, and reading-room, 477; church and chapels,
478
Rhodes of Rhodes, tradition of, 448 note
Ribble and Mersey, the lands between given to and for-
feited by Roger de Poictou, 30 ; conveyed by Roger de
Maresey to Randle Blundeville, earl of Chester, 75
Richard I., Coeur de Lion, 57, 73
Richard II. banishes Henry Plantagenet (of Bolingbroke),
duke of Hereford, 43 ; on his return the king is im-
prisoned by him and deposed, 44; the king's death in
Pontefract Castle, ib.
Richard III., his intrigues and coronation, 139 ; letters
patent, ib. ; his acts, 141 ; his bed at Leicester, b. ;
defeat and death at the battle of Bosworth, 142
Richmond, Henry, earl of, 141 ; lands at Milford Haven,
686
innex.
ib.; defeats Richard III, at Bosworth, and is crowned on
the field as Henry VII, 142. See also Henry VII.
Richmond, Margaret, countess of, mother of Henry VII.,
her attainder, 140 ; confinement to her apartments, 141 ;
reversal of her attainder, 140 ; augmentation of her pos-
sessions, 143; visited by Henry VII. at Knowsley and
Lathom (1495), 145 ; her letter to Thomas Boteler,
earl of Ormond, 146
Tiding the Black Lad (Ashton-under-Lyne), 426
Rifle association, Lancashire, 653
Rigby, Colonel, defeats the Royalists in Furness, and takes
Thurland Castle (1643), 221
Rigby family, 541
Rivers of Lancashire, Harrison's description of, 253
Rivington, township of (Bolton), area and population
(1851), 547 ; description, 578; devolution of, ib. ; the
Pilkingtons of, b. ; Bishop Pilkington, ib. ; Leland's
description of the township, 579 ; Rivington Pike and
its beacon, 549, 580; the Flemings, ib. ; Episcopal and
Unitarian chapels, ib.
ROCHDALE PARISH, its divisions and townships, area and
population, 482 ; name and early history, de Lacy
inquisition of, 1311, b. ; parish described in an ancient
MS., 483; devolution of the manor, b. ; the lords of
the manor, Lacy, Byron, 483-4; parish church, 485 ;
vicarage and value of the living, ib. ; church lands after
the dissolution of the monasteries, ºb. ; tithes and glebe
lands, 485 ; dependent churches, 486 ; parish church
edifice and burial-ground, chantries and monuments,
ib.: rectors and vicars, 487; churches in the parish
(1867), ºb.; chapels and rise of dissent, 488; boundaries
of the parish, 489 ; poor-law union, ib.; numbers
relieved and amount of relief (1860-1867), 490; valua-
tions, collieries, ib. ; Castleton, 504; devolution of
estates, ib.; Butterworth, Milnrow, 505 ; Hundersfield,
506 ; Littleborough, 507; Todmorden and Walsden,
509 ; Spotland, 510 ; Whitworth, 511; old halls, 512;
Saddleworth, b. ; devolution of the manor, 513
Rochdale, town, parliamentary and municipal borough,
482 ; boundaries, 490 ; parliamentary elections since
1832, b. ; statistics in electoral returns, 491; buildings
in the borough (1866), ib. ; assessments and annual
value (1827–47-67), b. ; local government, b. ; commis-
Sioners and gas company, 492 ; charter of incorporation
(1856), b. ; mayors, committees, and accounts of
Corporation, ºb. ; corporation finances, 493; petty Ses-
Sions, police and fire establishment, county court, water
Supply, ºb. ; waterworks act, area of gathering ground,
capacity of reservoirs and extent of supply, 495 ; gas,
ºb. ; Rochdale Vicarage Act, b. ; vicarage estate, 495 ;
town-hall, b. ; cemetery, 496 ; post-office banks, Sav-
ings bank, 497; chamber of commerce and merchants'
association, public baths, co-operative society and stores,
70. ; Equitable Pioneers, 498; other societies, new
ºf central store, 499 ; climate and sanitary condition of
the town, b. ; free grammar school, 500 ; modern
charitable and literary institutions, libraries, newspapers,
theatre, manufactures, 501 ; statistics of local manu-
factures, population at different periods, modern im-
provements, markets and fairs, 502 ; rush-bearing, local
events and occurrences, 503
Roger of Poitou ; see Poictou, Roger de -
Rogers, John, one of the translators of the Bible (‘Thomas
Mathew'), the first martyr in the reign of Mary (1555),
162
§
º
Roman institutions, roads, and stations, antiquities and
remains, 3-7 ; at Manchester, 267-271 ; at Little-
borough, 507; Saddleworth, 512
Rosworm, Lieut.-Col. John, strengthens Manchester and
commands its defence, 319, 320, 322
Roses, wars of the, Origin of, 133 ; course of, 133-142 ;
termination and results of, 142
Rothsay Castle steamer, wreck of (1831), and names of
sufferers, 522 -
Rothwell, Richard, the exorcist, 549
Royton, township of (Oldham), area and population (1861),
465 ; devolution of estates, local families, ancient iron-
forge, ºb. -
Rumworth, township of (Dean), area and population (1861),
535 ; owner of the lordship, ºb.
Rupert, Prince, raises the siege of Lathom House, 222 ;
takes Stockport (May 1642), ib. ; and Bolton and Liver-
pool, 223; at Marston Moor, b. ; in fights at Ormskirk,
Upholland, and Preston, ºb.
Rushbearing at Rochdale, 503
S
SABBATH, profanation of, in Lancashire temp. Elizabeth,
183; orders respecting, by ecclesiastical commission
(1579), ib. ; petition to James I. to remove restrictions,
209 ; the king's declaration as to lawful sports on
Sundays and festivals, or Book of Sports (1618), 209,
210 ; republication by Charles I. of this Book of Sports,
210 ; condemned by parliament and burnt by the
hangman (1643), 221
Saddleworth, township of (Rochdale), in Yorkshire, 512 ;
Druidical and Roman remains, ib.; devolution of the
manor, 513 ; Roche Abbey, b. ; old chapelry and new
parish, b. ; divisions and tithes, ºb.
SALFORD Hundred instituted, 15 ; Domesday Survey
of, 25 ; William Earl Ferrer has livery of the hundred
(1241), 31 ; banditti in (1328), 105 ; history of, 265;
its divisions, parishes, and townships, ºb. ; parks in,
their area and brood mares, 314 ; its courts leet, of
record, county, etc., 382 and note ; houses and popula-
tion of (1861), 613 ; valuation of property in, to
county rate in each township, and total of hundred
(1854 and 1866), 630 ; property and income tax returns
under schedules A, B, D, of townships and hundred
(1860), 641 ; county magistrates in (March 1868), 647
Salford poor-law union, 379 ; indoor and outdoor relief,
various years, 667
Salford town and parliamentary and municipal borough,
charter of Randle de Blundeville, earl of Chester
(1230–31), 273 ; charities, 303 ; boroughreeves of
(1800-44), 371 ; mayors (1844-67), ib.; charter of
incorporation (1844), 372; districts, wards, the council
and its committees, ºb. ; court of petty sessions, 375 ;
borough expenditure (1866-7), 378 ; town-hall, 381;
royal borough library and museum (1853), 352, 355,
395, 665 ; fire brigades, 388 ; Peel Park, 398, 665 ;
parliamentary borough, 348 ; elections (1832-65),
349 ; area, houses, and population of parliamentary
borough (1861), 651, 658; of township, 657 ; par-
liamentary electoral returns (1865-6), 658
Salmon-fisheries, early enactments as to, 119
Salisbury's (Cecil), earl of, letter on the gunpowder plot, 197
Samlesbury, the witches of, 201 - -
Sanctuary, privilege of, 159 ; Manchester and Lancaster
places of, ºb.; act creating Manchester a place of (1540),
#nbcy.
687
283 ; another act (1541) translating it to Chester, and
setting forth the reasons, 284
Savilles and Ellands of Elland (Rochdale), 483
Savoy, the, John of Gaunt's palace, destroyed (1378), 40,
II 7
Saxons, the, invited to Britain, 8 ; they included Angles,
Saxons, and Jutes, ib. ; arrival in Britain, 9; they attack
the Britons, ºb. ; Sir Tarquin, a Saxon knight at Man-
chester, 10 ; the Heptarchy or Octarchy, ºb.; mythology,
II ; conversion to Christianity, ib.; their castles South
of the Ribble, 12 ; ecclesiastical affairs, ib.; defeated
by the Danes, their dynasty ends, 19 ; coins, etc., 20 ;
classes of people and feudal system, 21
Scaitcliffe and the Crossleys, 509
Seaton, Sir John, takes Preston (February 1642), 218 ;
defeats earl of Derby and takes Wigan (April 1642), 219
Segantii or Setantii, 1 ; Setantian port, 3
Seal of the duchy, 53, 54 ; of the county palatine, 54 ;
duchy seal taken from the vice-chancellor by Royalists,
parliament orders a new seal to be made (1644), 224;
new seal attached to the patent of John Bradshaw, as
high sheriff, ib.
Selden's error corrected as to Lancashire, 72
Sequestration, ordinance of (1643), 220 ; parliamentary
sequestrators for Lancashire, b. 225 ; the king's com-
missioners of sequestration, ib. note ; parliamentary com-
mittee of sequestration (1646) allow Lancashire gentle-
men to compound for their estates, 225, 323 ; list of
gentlemen compounding, ib. ; they sequestrate the estates
of the earl of Derby, including Manchester College, which
is converted into a magazine and a prison, 226, 323
Serjeanties held of the king in Lancashire, 86
Severus the Emperor at York, 5 ; his wall, coinage, death, ib.
Sharples, township of (Bolton), area and population (1861),
547 ; lordship; or manor, 575 ; Belmont reservoir and
two chapels, ºb.
Shaw, hamlet of (Oldham), four heaths in,
464; ancient episcopal chapel, 467
Shaw Place, a house of the Willoughbys (in Heath Char-
nock, parish of Standish), 580 -
Sheriff of Lancashire, ordinance (1644) appointing John Brad-
shaw of Bradshaw, 62 ; presentments against (1323–4),
85; first parliamentary writ to the (1297), 91 ; first
parliamentary return by (1295), ib.
Sheriffs of Lancashire, list of, William II. to Victoria
(1087-1867), 57-61 ; republican ordinance for the con-
stitution of, 62 ; misconduct of, 85 ; pipe-rolls of II
Henry II. (1165) and two following years, ib. ; entries
of the sheriffs, 172 -
Ship-money, collection of (1340), 107; levy of, without au-
thority of parliament (1636), 211 ; first writ for (1636)
Žb. note ; contributions of Lancashire in money and ships,
ºb. note
Ships in Lancashire, subsidy for, (1340) 107; impress-
ment of, 108
Sholver Moor (Oldham), 464
Sickness, the sweating (1485, 1500), 143
Simnel, Lambert, a pretender to the throne, 143 ; lands at
the Pile of Fouldrey, 444; taken prisoner at the battle
of Stoke (1487), b. ; made an assistant cook, and after-
wards a falconer to Henry VII., b.
Sluys, naval victory at, over French fleet (1340), 106
Smallbridge, village of (Rochdale), 507
Smedley Hall (Manchester), 400
Smithells, hamlet of (Dean), 535, 543; devolution of the
; wakes,
manor, the Radcliffes and Bartons, 543; Smithells Hall
(1360), ib. ; the footmark of George Marsh (1555), ib.
Sour Carr (Ashton-under-Lyne), 426
Southworth, Sir John, a Roman Catholic recusant, im-
prisoned in the New Fleet, Manchester, 177, 178, 181,
312 (1580), 313
Sports and pastimes of various periods, 194; games named
- in verse, 195; the Book of Sports (1618), 209, 210;
condemned by parliament, and burnt by the common
hangman (1643), 221
Spotland, population (1862), 482; rateable value to county
rate,490; numbers, assessments in the township, and gross
annual value of (1827, 1847, 1867), 491 ; parochial
division of (Rochdale), 510; devolution of the estate, ºb. ;
Brandwood Waste, 511 ; hamlets in, b. ; woollen manu-
facture, ib. ; Whitworth, ib.; Spotland Nearer and Farther
Side, 512; Healey Hall, Greave, Wolstenholme Hall,
Chadwick Hall, Oakenrod Hall, ib.
Stalybridge, borough and chapelry of (Ashton-under-Lyne),
population of borough, 433 ; charter of incorporation
(1857), partly in Cheshire, Scenery, growth of manufac-
tures, ºb. ; churches and chapels, gas-works, town-hall,
market-house, banks, railways, 437
Stand, hamlet of (Bury), manor-house of the Pilkingtons
at, 516 ; license to kernel and embattle it, ºb.
Stanley family (earls of Derby), 586 ; its waning influence
in Lancashire (1642), 218. See Derby, earls of
Stanley, Ferdinando. See Derby, earls of
Stanley, James, bishop of Ely, his (Ely) chapel, tomb, and
inscription in Manchester Collegiate Church (1525), 282
Stanley, Sir Edward, a leader at Flodden (1513), 149; turns
the fortunes of the fight, 150 ; receives a letter of thanks
from Henry VIII., and is created Lord Monteagle, ib.
Stanley, Sir William, suspected by Richard III., 141 ;
changes sides, and crowns Henry VII. on Bosworth
Field, 142 ; grant of estates to, 143, 144 ; convicted of
high treason and beheaded (1495), 145 ; act of attainder
(1495), b. ; probable causes of his treatment, ºb.
Stanley, Sir William, a recusant, arrested at Brussels, 198
Stanley, Thomas, first Lord Stanley, declaration accusing
him of treachery (1459), 135 ; refusal to join the earl
of Warwick, 137 ; escape from death in the council
chamber, 139; commissioned to seize the lands of rebels
against Richard III, 140 ; made steward of the house-
hold and constable of England for life; ib.; suspected
by Richard III., 141 ; his conduct at Bosworth, 142 ;
created earl of Derby, 143. See also Earls of Derby
Star Chamber, duchy, 45; abolished (1641) by the Long
Parliament, 45, 212
Starkie, Mr. Nicholas, case of demoniacal possession at his
house (1594), 199
Starling, hamlet (Bury), boundary stone at, 523
Stations, Roman, 3 and note -
Steaner Bottom (Rochdale), old house of the Eastwoods
with inscription, 508
Stoke, near Newark, battle of (June 1487), the earl of Lin-
coln and other rebel leaders killed, and Lambert Simnel
taken, 144
Strange, George, Lord, a commander at the battle of Stoke
against Lambert Simnel, 144
Strange, James, Lord, seizes the magazines in Lancashire
(June 1642); 214 ; summons Manchester to surrender
(July, 1642) 215 ; skirmishin the streets, b. ; deprived
by the king of the lieutenancy of Cheshire and North
Wales, ib, ; impeached by parliament, 216 ; besieges
688
{mtſº,
Manchester (September 1642), b. ; but called away
to Shrewsbury, ib. ; becomes earl of Derby, b. See also
Derby, earls of: James, seventh earl
Strangeways Hall (Manchester), the site of the assize
courts, 400 -
Stretford, chapelry of (Manchester), area and population
(1861), 657; church and endowment, 402 ; a new
parish and rectory, ib.: Local Government Act, 669
Stubley House (Rochdale), a seat of the Holts, 507
Stukeley's, Dr., description of Manchester (1724), 328
Summons, military, writ of (1276), 76 ; others (1282), 79;
eight writs of (1278-9), 81; (1300), ib. ; (1306), 82;
(1307-8), ib. , , ,
Swinton, hamlet of (Eccles), 603; made a new parish
(1864), brick church built 1761, ib. ; Holyrood chapel
(1865), b. ; £11,000 subscribed to build a new church
(1868), 604; population of parish, industrial pauper
Schools, chapels, and day Schools, ºb.
T ‘.
TAILLAGE or Tallage, 105 -
Talbot, Sir John, betrays Henry VI, 137 ; royal grant in
reward (1484), b.
Talbot, Sir Thomas, accused of conspiring with others the
deaths of the dukes of Lancaster and Gloucester (1393-4),
I 19
Tenants ºn capite, widows and heiresses, 86
Tenth and fifteenth for Lancashire (1574), 175
Testa de Nevill, 85 ; summary of it as to tenures in Lanca-
shire, 86
Thanes, Saxon, 27; in West Derby hundred, 28
Thanage, and other peculiar services and tenures, 87
Thomas Plantagenet, earl of Lancaster, son of Edmund
Crouchback, 33 ; heads the barons against the king, ib.;
his defeat and execution, 34; different estimates of his
character, b.; reputed miracles at his tomb ; the king's
mandate against them (1323), 'b.; marriage of his widow,
ºb. ; his Household Book (1313), 34, 35
Thornham, township of (Middleton), area and population
(1861), 468 ; transfer of the estate, 481
Thurland Castle, siege and surrender of (October 1643),
221 ; its demolition, İb.
* Tim Bobbin, the non de plume of John Collier, writer in
the South Lancashire dialect, notice of, 505 ; his birth
at Urmston and baptism at Flixton (1709), 610 ; lines
by him, ºb.
Todmorden and Walsden, parochial division and township
of (Rochdale), 509; Todmorden manor and the Rad-
cliffes, ib.; churches and chapels, 510 ; the Crossleys of
Scaitcliffe, ib. -
Tonge-with-Haulgh, township of (Bolton), area and popula-
tion (1861), 547; description of Haulgh Hall, Hall-i-
th’-Wood, the wakes, ib.
Torquin and Sir Lancelot du Lake, tradition of, 10
Tottington, Higher, chapelry or township of (Bury), area
and population (1861), 514
Tottingham, Lower, chapelry or township of (Bury), area
and population (1861), 514
Tottington, royal manor of (Bury), 515 note, 523 ; court,
524; hall, ib.
Towns, decayed, in Lancashire (1544): Lancaster, Preston,
Liverpool, and Wigan, 159 .
Towton, battle of (1461), 136 ; names of nobles and
knights there slain, 137 -
Trafford family (Eccles), 317; the hall and park, 594
Trafford, Sir Cecil, his conversion to Roman Catholicism
(1632), 317 ; as a zealous royalist, he supplies arms to
Manchester and other towns, ib.
Trafford, Sir Edmund, the alchemist, 425
Trailbaston, commission of, temp. Edward I, 82; names of
the judges, ib.
Travelling (1773), 335
Treasury, duchy, grant of a (1390), 40 and note
Tunshill Ironworks (Milnrow, Rochdale, 1744), 506 ; now
discontinued, ºb. -
Turf Lane-end in Royton (Oldham), Friends' meeting-house
(1665), 465 -
Turton, chapelry of (Bolton), area and population (1861),
547; devolution of the manor, Humphrey Chetham at
Turton Tower, Turton Heights, chapels, fair, 576
Tyler, Wat, his insurrection (1381), 187; court of King's
Bench closed in consequence, b.
Tyrone's bed (Rochdale), a retreat of the earl of Tyrone,
temp. Elizabeth, 505 -
TJ .
UNIFORMITY, Act of (1662), 235 ; requiring conformity by
St. Bartholomew's Day (August 24), b.; notice of eject-
ment, ºb.; list of ejected and silenced ministers in Lan-
cashire, 236
Unsworth Chapel (Prestwich), 451 ; School, 518
Urmston, township of (Flixton), area and population (1861),
607; devolution of the manor and court baron, 609 ;
new church (1868), ib. ; a new district parish, 610 ;
Urmston Hall, b. ; John Collier (“Tim Bobbin') born
here (1709), and notice of him, ºb. +
W
WAGRANTs, seizure of 13,000 (1570), 169
Valor Beneficiorum of Pope Nicholas IV. (1288-1292), 79,
256
Valuations of property for county-rate (1854 and 1866),
627 ; Lonsdale hundred, North and South of the Sands,
628; Amounderness hundred, ib.; Blackburn hundred,
629 ; Leyland hundred, ib. ; Salford hundred, 630 ;
West Derby hundred, 631 ; summary of the hundreds,
632 ; valuation of various Lancashire poor-law unions,
Žb.; of boroughs having quarter-sessions, 633; of bo-
roughs without quarter-sessions, but with their own
police, ib.; townships not liable to contribute to county
and hundred bridges, ºb. ; amount of rate in each hun-
dred, from I penny to the 32d part of a penny in the
pound, 634 -
Vegetables and fruit temp. Henry VIII., 192
Weratinum, a Roman station (Warrington), 3 and note
Willeins under the feudal system, 20
Victoria, Queen, high-sheriffs in her reign, 61 ; visits
Worsley Hall (October 9), Manchester and Salford (Oc-
tober 10, 1851), 354; second visit, and to the art
treasures exhibition (June 30 and July 1857), staying
at Worsley Hall, 358 -
Victoria Bridge, Manchester (1839), 350
Victoria Gallery of Science, Manchester (1840), 350
Visitation of Lancashire by the bishop of Chester (1548),
I67 - : +
Visitations, heralds' (various years), 242, 243, and notes
W
WAGEs of husbandry labour at various periods, 76, 77
Wakes; see Ashton, Prestwich, Eccles, and the parish
histories respectively *
Hºntº,
689
Walintune (Warrington), a Saxon hundred, 15 ; early
merged in the hundred of West Derby, 259
Walkden Moor, Worsley (Eccles), a new parish and its
church, 603 -
Walker, Thomas, of Manchester, his trial and acquittal of
sedition (1794), 339
Walmersley, township of (Bury), area and population (1861),
514; description of, 525; beacon on Whittle Pike,
Žb.; prospect tower of the Messrs. Grant, on Top-o'-th'-
Hoof, 525 ; Cob House, the residence of Captain Kay
(in 1644), b.
Walsden, a township with Todmorden (Rochdale), 509 ;
new parish and vicarage, ºb. ; church and free School,
&b.
Wapentake, synonymous with hundred, 259
Warbeck, Perkin, a pretender, as the duke of York, 144;
goes to Flanders and is aided by the duchess of Bur-
gundy, who names him the ‘White Rose of England,
145; lands in Kent, next in Scotland, where he marries
Lady Katherine Gordon, 146; invades Northumberland,
but retreats to Scotland, ºb.; lands in Cornwall, but flies,
Surrenders himself, and is executed at Tyburn, 146,
147
Warburton, John, F.R.S., F.A.S., Somerset Herald, life of,
526
Wardleworth, township of (Rochdale), population of (1861),
482; rateable value of, 490 ; number of assessments in,
and gross annual value (1827, 1847, 1867), 491 ;
average age at death (in 8 years), 500 ; horse-power in
mills and factories (1867), 502 ; Foxholes, a seat of the
Entwisles, 506
Wardle ; see Wuerdle and Wardle
Wardley Hall (Worsley, Eccles), and the story of a skull,
526
Warrington (Walintune) hundred, in Domesday Survey,
25
Warrington, town, in the civil war, Sir John Seaton's
Parliamentary forces repulsed at (April 1643), 219 ;
siege of, by Colonel Ashton and the Parliamentary forces
(May 1643), and in five days the garrison capitulated,
220 ; capitulation at (August 1648), of a division of the
Scotch army under General Bayley, 229
War, the great civil, between Charles I. and the Parliament
(1641), 212; (1649) execution of the king, 231 ; be-
tween Charles II. and the Commonwealth (1651), 231 ;
the Royalists defeated at Wigan Lane (August 1651), and
at Worcester (September 1651), 232; Charles II. hides
in the Oak at Boscobel, and escapes to the continent,
Žb.
Wars of the Roses (1454–1485), 134-142 ; the numbers
of nobles, gentry, and commonalty slain therein, 142
and note ; the general results of, b. and note, and 143
Webster, Dr. John, author of Display of Witchcraft, and
detector of soi-disant witch-finders, 205
Weights and measures, larger in Lancashire than the rest
of England, and Lancashire therefore exempted by an
ordinance of Richard II. (1389), from the uniform
standard for the kingdom, 119
Welsh army, auxiliary to Edward I, march through Lanca-
shire ‘against the Scottish rebels’ (1297), 80
Werneth manor (Oldham), 456, 457; the hall burned down
and rebuilt, the Cudworths and Asshetons, sale and
resale of the estates (1794), 457
Wests, the, lords of the barony and manor of Manchester,
277 -
West, Sir Thomas and William his son, sell the manor of
Manchester to John Lacye (1579) for £3000, 277
WEST DERBY Hundred, instituted 15; then called
Derby, ib.; so described in Domesday Survey, 24; number
of carucates to a hide of land in, ib. note ; William
Earl Ferrers has livery of the hundred (1241), 31 ;
banditti in (1328–29), 105
West Derby Manor passes to William Earl Ferrers (1241),
24
Westhoughton, chapelry of (Dean), area and population of
(1861), 535 ; charities in, 537; description of, and
devolution of the manor, 545 ; sulphurous spring,
Brinsop, Daisey, or Westhoughton halls, ib.; malignant
epidemic (1727-8), ib. ; Luddites destroy a power-loom
factory, and four are executed at Lancaster (1812), ib.
West Leigh and Westley. See Leigh
Westminster Assembly of Divines (1643), 226
Whalley, a battle fought at (A.D. 738), parish first named
in history, 13; John Paslew, abbot of Whalley, executed
there for taking part in the ‘Pilgrimage of Grace’
(1537), 156 - -
Whalley Coucher-Book, for possessions in Eccles, 585
Whitaker, John, B.D., historian of early Manchester, life
of, 410
White, Charles, F.R.S., Manchester, life of, 409
Whitefield, hamlet of (Prestwich), 533
Whittle Pike, in Walmersley (Bury), the site of a beacon,
525
Whitworth, chapelry of (Rochdale), chapel founded
(1532), 511 ; twice rebuilt and a new church built
(1848), 512; a new parish and vicarage, manor of, 511,
512 ; Facit also a new parish, b. ; the ‘Whitworth
doctors, 511 -
Wickcliffe, John, and the Lollards, protected by John of
Gaunt, 40
Widows and heiresses of tenants ºn capite, marriages in
the gift of the king, 86
Wigan, derivation of name, 10 ; battles there between
Britons and Saxons, ib. ; many human bones, and horse
bones and shoes, and other remains found there (1735
and 1741), b. ; inquisition at (1323) as to persons im-
plicated in the rebellion of Thomas, earl of Lancaster,
84 ; taken by Parliamentary force under Sir John
Seaton (1642), 219; battle of Wigan Lane (1651), 232
Wilder Lads, a pile of stones on Horwich Moor, 544, 545
William I., ‘the Conqueror, and duke of Normandy,
lands at Pevensey, and defeats Harold at the battle of
Hastings (October 1066), 18, 19 ; puts down insurrec-
tions and lays waste a great part of North Lancashire,
22 ; seizes the possessions of the clergy, and directs the
T}omesday Survey, 23 ; endows. Roger de Poitou with
398 manors, of which 188 were in South Lancashire, 28;
the castles of Lancaster and Liverpool built early in
this reign, by Roger, 21 ; the forest laws of this king,
73
William III. passes through South Lancashire, and em-
barks at Liverpool (June 1690), before the battle of the
Boyne, 237 ; plots and conspiracies against, b. 238; the
Lancashire plot and trials at Manchester (1694), ib.; his
warrant as to deer in the Lancashire forests (1697), 74
Wills, Lancashire, in various depositories, 257
Winwick, defeat there of the Royalists by Cromwell (1648),
229
Witchcraft in Lancashire, 198; Eleanor, duchess of Glou-
cester, 199; the earl and countess of Derby, ib.; Fer-
4. T
690
{mtſºy.
nando, earl of Derby, b. ; superstitious fear of, 207 ;
general belief in, 208, 316
Witches of Pendle and Samlesbury (1612), 201; trials of,
202; sentences and execution of, 203 ; trial of witches
at York (1612), 204; trials of Lancashire witches (1633),
Žb.; Dr. John Webster's account of a suborned and per-
jured witness, 205; in Worcestershire, 206
Withington, township of (Manchester), area and population
(1861), 657
Woden's Ford and Den, Ordsall Rock (Salford), 271 ; en-
graving of, 306
Wolstenholme Hall (Rochdale) and the Wolstenholmes
(1180), 512
Woodcutters, Lancashire, for pioneers (1282), 76 ; their
wages threepence per day, ºb.
Woolden, Great (Eccles), Hall, 595
Woolden, Little, hamlet of (Eccles), and hall, 595
Worsley, township of (Eccles), area and population (1861),
582 ; the manor and the Worsleys, 599 ; devolution of
the manor, 600 ; Masseys, Breretons, and Egertons, ºb. ;
boundaries of the manor, ib. note ; the three Worsley
Halls, 601 ; carved oak panels from Hulme Hall, ib. ;
Rempmall and Wardley Halls, and the story of a skull,
Žb.; Booths Manor and Hall, 602; Bridgewater Canal
works, Brindley and Gilbert, b. ; the new parish and
vicarage of Worsley (1863), 603; St. Mark's church
(1846), value of the living, ºb. ; schools, ºb. ; Ellenbrook
chapel, its restoration, ib.; Walkden Moor church (1838),
now a new parish, b. ; value of the living, day Schools,
(b. ; villages and hamlets in Worsley, b. ; Swinton, St.
Peter's church (1791), now a new parish (1864), b. ;
proposed new church, and large subscription for it, 604;
chapels and Schools, ib.
Worthington, John, D.D., life of, 407
Writ, parliamentary, to the sheriff, the first extant (1297), 91
Wroe, Richard, D.D. (“Silver-tongued’), warden of Man-
chester, life of, 533
Wuerdale and Wardle, parochial division of (Rochdale),
population of (1861), 482; horse-power in the cotton
and other factories (1867), 502; only forty persons
more in this township in the parliamentary than in the
municipal borough, 490 ; rateable value of property
in, b.
Y
YATES family, 541, 542
Yates Peel Hall, 541
York, Richard, duke of, claims the throne, levies an army,
and defeats the Lancastrians at the first battle of St.
Albans (1454), 134; defeated and slain at Wakefield,
and his head set on the gates of York, 136
York, house of, 133 ; its badge the white rose, 134; con-
test with the house of Lancaster. See houses of York
and Lancaster ; and Roses, wars of the
Yule feast at Ashton-under-Lyne (1422), 427
END OF WOLUME I.
Printed by R. CLARK, AEdinburgh.
*.
Zancashire & Yorkshire A māyuities & Zoffograff/y.
THE Works of the late Rev. THOMAS DUNHAM WHITAKER, LL.D., Vicar of Whalley—the most elegant, learned, and profound
antiquary that Lancashire has possessed—have advanced in public estimation and in pecuniary value with every succeeding year.
They are now becoming very scarce, and when any of them occurs in the sale of a gentleman's library, there is great competition
for it, and it is sure to fetch a high price. Under these circumstances, Messrs. GEORGE ROUTLEDGE & SONS of London, and
Mr. L. C. GENT of Manchester, the joint-publishers of “Roby's Traditions of Lancashire,” of “Baines's History of Lancashire,”
and of “Gregson's Portfolio of Fragments of Lancashire History and Antiquities,” are desirous to issue reprints of Dr. Whit-
aker's more celebrated and standard County Works. They propose to commence with his
HISTORY OF THE ORIGINAL PARISH OF
WHALLEY
AND HONOR OF CIITHEROE,
IN THE COUNTIES OF LAN CASTER AND YORK.
This highly-esteemed Work has already passed through three editions, and is now scarce and more than ever in demand. It was
first published in 1801 in a thick 4to volume, with plates and maps. The second Edition, royal 4to, with eight new Engravings,
was published in 1806. The third and best Edition (from which it is proposed to print the forthcoming fourth Edition), was
published in 1818, 4to, with additions, including a very brief index and some more plates—price Six Guineas ; with a limited
number on large paper at 7 we've Guineas. Mr. Botfield’s large-paper copy of this Work, and of Craven (2 vols. 4to), so lately as
January 1864, fetched the extraordinary price of £77. The present publishers propose to reprint this work, without any omis-
sions, the same size as the original, and with all the original plates, but with the great desideratum of a new and comprehensive
Index, the want of which has hitherto been the only drawback to the value of this admirable Work. To be edited by JOHN
HARLAND, Esq., F.S.A., Editor of the new Edition of “Baines's History of Lancashire,” of “Gregson's Fortfolio of Fragments,”
and of many other Works of Lancashire History and Antiquities.
It is also proposed to issue a limited Edition on large paper. Should this Work receive the encouragement which they
confidently expect from a Public growingly appreciative of this class of books, the Publishers propose (next in order) to issue a
Reprint of the most splendid of all Dr. Whitaker's Works—the
HISTORY OF RICHMONDSHIRE,
IN THE NORTH RIDING OF THE COUNTY OF YORK;
ToGETHER WITH THOSE PARTS OF THE EVERWICSHIRE OF DOMESDAY which FoRM THE WAPENTAKES OF
LONSDALE, EWECROSS, AND AMOUNDERNESS
IN THE COUNTIES OF YORK, LANCASTER, AND WESTMORLAND.
This beautiful Work was originally published in folio in 12 parts; or bound in two vols., price £25: 4s. ; large paper, ſ 50 :8s.
It is peculiarly rich in pictorial Illustration, containing about 45 plates, 20 of which, views of the beautiful and romantic scenery
of the most picturesque country in Yorkshire and Lancashire, are engraved from original drawings made expressly for this Work
by the magic pencil of that greatest of modern masters, J. M. W. Turner, R.A. So highly were these plates estimated, that the
set from Turner’s drawings was reprinted by J. B. Nichols and Son, and sold separately at Three Guineas the set; India Proofs
at Five Guineas the set. The Work also contains 27 sheet pedigrees of the great families having their seats within the district,
besides a considerable number of other pedigrees of Smaller extent. It comprises altogether nearly Iooo folio pages of inter-
esting historical, biographical, and antiquarian matter, from exclusive and peculiar sources of information, now no longer acces-
sible; and thus constitutes a work of the highest value and interest, not only to the residents of the ancient Richmondshire, but
also to all students and lovers of the history and antiquities of the North of England. This Work the publishers propose to reprint,
under the editorship of Mr. Harland, F.S.A., with a copious Index, and without any omissions. Of the large paper the impression
is meant to be very limited.
Lastly in the order of succession, they propose to offer to the public, if the former Works are sufficiently encouraged to induce
them to embark in a third, Dr. Whitaker's
HISTORY AND ANTIQUITIES OF THE DEANERY OF
CRAVEN,
IN THE COUNTY OF YORK.
This Work originally appeared in one vol. royal 4to, in the year 1805. A second and enlarged Edition, also royal 4to, was
published in 1812, price £2 : I.2 : 6; and a large paper issue in folio, at double the price. This Work has also become scarce,
and has realised at sales during the last few years very large prices. The publishers propose to reprint the Second Edition, with
all its additions and plates (about 30 in number), and I 9 sheet pedigrees, in one volume royal 4to, and with the addition of a
copious and comprehensive Index, under the same editorship. A large paper impression will also be issued, of which the number
will be strictly limited.
Further details as to prices, etc. etc., will be duly announced ; in the meantime application for information can be made to all
respectable Booksellers.
LONDON : G. ROUTLEDGE & SONS. MAN CHESTER L. C. GENT.
In the Press. Small paper Copies, 4.3 : 13 : 6; large paper, 265 : 5s.
Gregson's Porffo/io of Fragments
HISTORY & ANTIQUITIES, TOPOGRAPHY & GENEALOGIES
COUNTY PALATINE & DUCHY OF LANCASHIRE,
Embellished with numerous Engravings of Views, Seats, Arms, Seals, and Antiquities.
THIRD EDITION, WITH ADDITIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS,
EDITED BY JOHN HARLAND, F.S.A.
EDITOR OF THE FORTHCOMING NEW EDITION OF “BAINES’s HISTORY OF LANCASHIRE,”
AND OF MANY WORKS OF LAN CASHIRE ANTIQUITIES.
THIS EDITION will be printed on the finest paper by CLARK, Edinburgh, and will address itself, by the great local interest it
possesses, to Lancashire people in all parts of the world. The Work is replete with family pedigrees, portraits, arms, &c. Not-
withstanding the great cost which, as a matter of course, must be incurred in the production of so elaborate a volume, the price will
be as moderate as possible, so as to bring it within the means of a very large number of the inhabitants of the county palatine.
Lowndes, in his Bibliographer's Manual, says, “This book was originally published in 1817, in three parts, at 44 : 4s.,
and so far is complete. But in 1824 it was re-issued as a second Edition, with a new title, a supplementary portion of plates, and
starred pages, forming a fourth part, which was also published separately at £2 : 2s. An Index was announced, but never published.”
Thus it would appear that the original published price of the entire Work was six guineas, advanced after March 1825 to
ten guineas and a half, and this the present publishers propose to offer in a vastly superior form to the former Editions at 4.3 : 13 : 6.
The great deficiency of the former Editions is, as alluded to by Lowndes, the want of an Index. The new Edition will
contain not only a copious general Index, but also a special Index to the coats of arms. -
One of the chief characteristic features of this Work is that it contains the largest collection in print of engraved coats of
arms of Lancashire families, as well as many of Cheshire, Yorkshire, and other counties. For the want of a special Index to the
coats of arms, these have hitherto remained almost a sealed book, unless by means of a long and fatiguing search through about 580
pages. This defect will be supplied in the present Edition by a full Index to the coats of arms. Omitting the very ancient coats,
and those of English sovereigns and foreign potentates and nobles, the volume contains the armorial bearings of various branches of
the following families:–
Abraham Bexley Burscough Coupland Essex Haberjam Hutt Lostock Normanton Redmayne Starkie Venables
Ackers Bickersteth Bussel radock Ethelston Hainault Huxley Lucy Renwick Statham Verdun
Aigburth Billinge Burgh Croft Etherington Halsall Hyde Lydiate Offley Ricamer Stayley Vernon
Albemarle Billingham Bury Cross Evans Halstead Hyton Malb Ogle Richard Steward Vescy
Ambrose Bindloss Butler Crosse Evereux Hamer Ince i. d Oker Richmond Strange Villars
Anderton Bindshaw Byrom Crossley Ewode Hammond ijethor i. flººr Okeover Ridgway Straunge Williers
Andrews IrC Byron rook Eyre Handford §aii pe i. Ormerod Rigby Stretch -
Argal Birkenhead Crouchback Hardman irºnd i. h W Ormond IRimmington Strickland Waleis
Arundel Bispham Capleyn Cuerden Falkner Harrington i. i. cne Qrmston Rishton Strong Walmesley
Ashton Blackledge Canning Culcheth Farington Harrison i. Qsbaldeston Riston Stuch Walsall
Assheton #. II gºld Cunliffe Fazakerley #. Jeffreys i. Owen #. sº Wºl.
Ashawe UIII Cie are W. Curzon Fairclough argreaves Jones &lsº ixton 11tton Walton
Ashfield Blundeville Carnaby Dacr errarS arwood º endal Mº I Parker JRobinson Swetenham Warburton
Ashurst Bohun Carmynow fºil Ferrers Haughton ; j 3. Wii. º Parkinson Rodbird Swinford Warre
Aspinwall # brok 3. Hºnam Fenton Havering- R. jº Fºr #; ll Sºmerton W.
Aston ollingbroke Case . Fitton 3 III. * - othwell . Sykes atSOn
Atherton Bonage Catherton Dauntesey Fleetwood Haydock Kenrick Middletºn Peake Royle Watt
* Dannett - Kerfoot Minshull Peel Talbot
Atkinson Booth Catterall Delefeld Fleming Hayes Kinderton Mitton Fudd Weld
Aughton #. gº. i. Folliott Hººd *:::::::: Mºux #ºn #. º: W:
Aynesworth Bootle a Wth Orne Ford ea to Il * 3. ysely .O. estby
Bostock Chadderton Fº Forster Heton #. §: Penny Tatton Westmor-
Backhouse Brackenbury Chadwick #. % t Fowler Hesketh i. t all i. Cry" (; Petre Sale Taylor land
Baines Braddyll Chandler ewnurs France Heyhurst irstowe ontague Philips Salesbury Tempest Westingcraft
Ditchfield * Kitchen Montalt Phillips Thomond
Balcarres Bradley Qharnock #5. Frognal Heysham, º.p.s Nº. p Samlesbury & Weston
Balderston #º, Chaworth #. Furness Hºod i. M.ºry £ºn sº #: Wi.
Baldwin radshaigh Chester incrſels iber *y rºckering andys nitaker
Bamford Bradshaw Chetham Bºnges Gargrave Hippell Lacy Mºme Pilkington Sankey Torbock whittaker
Banastre Bragerac Chisenhall #. flet Garnett Hindle Lancaster #.” Pilleford Savage Totty Whitley
Banister Brettargh Chisnell #. & Garstang Hindley Langford Mij. Pillford Scarisbrick Towneley Wilbraham
Banks Brewer Cholmon- #ºn gºyne Holcroft Langley †. ys Fºrd gººd º Wºº."
Bankes Briers deley T}utt allnt Holden Langton Morti crope illiamson
Bardsey Bridge Chorley #5. OIl Gee Holt Langtree sºme Poole Segar Travers Willis
Barlow Bridgman Clarence ysart Gerard Hodson . Latham OSS Pontefract Shakerley Tudor Wilson
Barnes Bridleshaw Clayton Dyneley Gerrard Hodgson Law . Mowbray Powell Sharples Tunstall Winckley
Barton Brooke Cliderhou Eccleston Gildart Holland Lawrence Nelson Prescot Shaw Ullſner Winstanley
Bawdwin Brookes Clifton JEdmanston Gillibrand Holme Leicester ", Neville Preston Shawe Turton Wood
Barneston Brockholes Clive Edwards Goldburne Hopwood Leigh Newport Pudsey Sherborne Twenge Woodville
Bathurst Brotherton Clowes Egerton Green Horwode Legh Newsham Pulton Shipbroke Twyford woolfall
ayne Broughton Cockshott Egleston Greene Horrocks Lever Newton Quincey, De Shuttleworth TWyston worsley
Beaufort Brown Cokerham Elmesale Greenhalgh Hornby Ley Norreys '**'Singleton Tyldesley worthington
Beconsall Bryn Columbus Eltonhead Grelley Howard Leyland Norris Radcliffe Skillicorn Ulster Wrotesley
Bedford Briche Coney Elston Greenacre Howarth Lindsay Norfolk Tainford Smith Unsworth Wroughton
Bebbington Bruche Corbeil Emden Griffin Huddleston Livesley Normandy Ravenscroft Spenser TJrswick Wych
Belmont Buccleuch Corbet England Grimshaw Hulme Livesey Northum- Ravens- Stanley Wydnes
Benson Buckley Cornwall English Grosvenor Hutton Longford berland holme Standish Valens -
Bentley Bulkeley Cottam Entwisle Guies Hurlock Longworth Noel Rawsthorne Stapleton Valonis Yates
Betham' Bullock Coucy Erneux Gynes Hurst Lomax Nowell Redish Starkey Vavasor Yeland
The size of the book will be similar to the former Editions—viz. foolscap folio; but a small impression will be printed on
Large Paper at A.5 : 5s. ; in this latter it is intended to print the names of subscribers to it.
As in the case of “Baines's Lanca-
hire,” and “Roby's Traditions of Lancashire,” a limited number only will be printed; and those who wish to secure copies should
make early application to the booksellers.
April 1868.
LONDON : G. ROUTLEDGE & SONS.
The publishers propose to advance the announced prices before publication.
MANCHESTER : L. C. GENT.

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