University College Reading Studies in Local History r: ^^ The Town of Reading ring the Early Part of the Nineteenth Century By W. M. Childs, M.A. Principal of University College, Reading Reading Published by University College 1910 Price Two Shillings and Sixpence net UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT LOS ANGELES ,V' William 3tanfbrd& Compaq/, Ltd., VERSHAM READING IN 1813. 5 6 Furlongs University College Reading Studies in Local History The Town of Beading during the Early Part of the Nineteenth Century By W. M. Childs, M.A. Principal of University College, Reading Reading Published by University College 1910 OXFORD : HORACE HART PRINTER TO THE UNIVERSITY GENERAL NOTE IT is proposed to issue from time to time studies dealing with particular aspects of local history. Such studies will relate primarily to the ample field for historical inquiry presented by Reading and the neighbouring counties. In order to make such a scheme feasible, a fund sufficient to defray the chief part of the cost of publication is indispensable. Such a fund has been initiated with the approval of the Council of University College. The Council have also agreed that the responsibilities of editorial supervision shall be entrusted to the Principal. The Principal will be glad to receive suggestions with regard to the scheme, and will gratefully acknowledge donations in aid of the Local History Publications Fund. The object of the enterprise is to stimulate public interest in the history of the locality, and to afford a means by which the general historical teaching at University College may gradually become connected with, and be illustrated by, the detailed evidence which is furnished by local history. The Faculty of Letters have recognized the educational value of this idea, and have cordially approved of the undertaking. UNIVERSITY COLLEGE, READING, May I, 1910. PREFACE THE present essay deals with the history of the town of Reading in the early part of the nineteenth century. It has not proved convenient to limit its scope by exact dates, but the period under review may be said to extend from 1801 to 1832, the date of the Reform Act, and 1835, the date of the Municipal Corporations Act; and the aim has been to dissect and examine the organization and life of a typical country town when approaching and undergoing the great transformation, of which these measures were only the more obvious symptoms. In pursuit of this aim little attention has been paid to matters of purely personal interest; while, on the other hand, details suggestive of social change and development have been given with fullness, and in several sections of the work have been carried down to a date approaching the middle of the century. I desire to state that a donation by Jamieson B. Hurry, Esq., M.A., M.D., whose interest in, and contributions to, the study of local history are well known, has made it possible to incur the costs of the present publication. All receipts from sales will be placed to the credit of the Local History Publications Fund, which Dr. Hurry's generous gift has initiated. I desire to acknowledge with thanks the courtesy of the proprietors of the Reading Mercury, who permitted me some years ago to consult files of their newspaper which were not possessed by the Reading Free Library. My thanks are also due to the authorities of the Free Library for facilities given to me at different times ; and to certain members of the Gild of the Red Rose, the Literary Society of University College, for their help when I first began the laborious task of annotating the newspapers of the period. 6 PREFACE Lastly., my thanks are due to my colleagues, Mr. J. H. Sacret, M.A., Lecturer in Modern History, and Mr. F. M. Stenton, M.A., Research Fellow in Local History, at University College, Reading, for their ready assistance in correcting proofs, and for numerous valuable suggestions. In the work of final revision I have been greatly helped by my wife^s counsel and encouragement. W. M. CHILDS. PRINCIPAL'S LODGE, READING, May 1, 1910. LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS Allon. ' Memoirs of the Rev. James Sherman.' Henry Allon, 1864. Berks. Chron. ' Berkshire Chronicle.' (Weekly newspaper, issued 1770- 1815 at Wokingham. Suspended till 1825, when issue was resumed, at Reading.) Bruce. ' Original Letters, &c., relating to the Benefactions of William Laud, Archbishop of Canterbury, to the County of Berks.' Edited by John Bruce, F.S.A. 1841. C. ' The History and Antiquities of Reading.' The Rev. Charles Coates, LL.B. 1802. Cecil. 'Discourses of the Hon. and Rev. W. B. Cadogan, M.A.,' with Memoir. Richard Cecil, M.A. 1798. Colborne. ' Memoirs of the Rev. W. Legg, B.A.' George Colborne, M.A. 1871. Davis. ' History of the Baptist Church in Reading.' C. A. Davis. 1891. Doran. ' The History and Antiquities of the Town and Borough of Reading.' 1835. Education of Poor (1818). ' First Report of Commissioners on the Educa- tion of the Poor.' 1818. Berks, (published 1839). Field. ' The Advantages of the Separate System of Imprisonment, as established in the new County Gaol at Reading.' The Rev. J. Field, M.A., Chaplain to the Gaol. 1846. Guide. ' Rusher's Reading Guide.' 1801-17. Hist. MSS. Comm. ' Historical Manuscripts Commission.' Eleventh Report, Appendix, Part VII, 1888. (Reading Corporation, &c.) Hurry. ' A History of the Reading Pathological Society.' Jamieson B. Hurry, M.A., M.D. 1909. Jones. ' Sketches of Reading,' &c. J.B.Jones. 1870. Kerry. ' A History of the Municipal Church of St. Lawrence, Reading.' The Rev. Charles Kerry. 1883. Lee. ' Report to the General Board of Health,' &c. Reading. W. Lee, C.E. 1850. Legg. 'Memorials of Broad Street Chapel, Reading.' W. Legg, B.A. 1851. ^Estrange. ' Life of Mary Russell Mitford.' Edited by the Rev. A. G. L'Estrange. 3 Vols. 1870. Lyon. ' Chronicles of Finchampstead.' William Lyon. 1895. Man. 'The History and Antiquities of Reading. 1 John Man. 1815. Marsh. ' Life of the Rev. W. Marsh, D.D.' By his Daughter. 1867. 8 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS Mavor. ' General View of the Agriculture of Berkshire, drawn up for the consideration of the Board of Agriculture and Internal Im- provement.' William Mavor, LL.D. 1809. Money. ' The History of the Town and Borough of Newbury.' Walter Money, F.S.A. 1887. Municip. Comm. Report. ' Report of the Municipal Commissioners appointed to inquire into the state of Corporations in England and Wales.' October 24, 1833. Commissioners : Peregrine Bingham, David Jardine, Esquires. Corporation of Reading. Notable Events. ' Notable Events in the Municipal History of Reading.' Compiled by the Rev. J. M. Guilding, F.S.A. 1895. Octog. ' Reminiscences of Reading.' Octogenarian (the late W. S. Darter, Esq., J.P.). 1888. Patterson. ' Paterson's Roads,' &c. 16th edit. 1822. Poor Law Report. ' Report of Poor Law Commission,' 1834 (Reprint). R. M. ' Reading Mercury ' (founded at Reading in 1723, and issued weekly since that date). R. 0. 'Reading Observer' (founded at Reading in 1873, and issued weekly since that date). R. S. A. ' Reading Seventy Years Ago ; a record of Events from 1813 to 1819.' (An anonymous contemporary diary.) 1887. Recollections. 'Recollections of the Last Half Century.' Rev. J. Richardson, LL.B. 2 Vols. 1855. Report of Commissioners (Charities), 1818. ' Report of Commissioners for inquiring concerning Charities.' 1818. Berks. Stranger. ' The Stranger in Reading, in a series of Letters from a Traveller to his friend in London.' 1810. V. C. H. ' Victoria County History of Berkshire.' Vols. I and II. 1906, 1907. The Map in this volume is taken from John Man's History of Reading. THE TOWN OF READING DURING THE EARLY PART OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY IN examining the history of Reading during the period to be considered, it will be convenient to begin with an account of the number of its inhabitants and of its physical characteristics. In 1801, the date of the first decennial census, the number of inhabitants in Reading was returned as 9,421. In 1901 the population of the enlarged borough was 72,217. The more rapid growth has taken place since 1851, when the population numbered 21,456. In 1811 the number of inhabitants was 10,827 ; in 1821 a moderate increase was again visible, the total being 12,867. In 1831 the population had increased to 15,950, and in 1841 to 19,074. At the beginning of the century Reading was considered to be ( in every respect the first town in Berkshire ' ; yet it still c divided the honours of the county with Abingdon V Assizes and sessions for the county were held in both towns. Wards of the Borough. The ancient division of the Borough of Reading into Wards still continued. ( High Ward includes Duke Street, Sun Lane, and Back Lane, now King Street ; the Market Place, the Butter Market, Friar Street, Vastern Lane, Hog Lane, and Gutter Lane, now Cross Street. New Ward contains Butcher Row, Fisher Row, Broad Street, Chain Lane, the Forbury, and the wharfs on the north side of the Rennet. In Minster Ward are Minster Street, Gun Street, Castle Street, Pigney Lane, and St. Mary's Churchyard. Old Ward extends from the King's Head down Southampton Street, including Crown Lane, Horn Street, the Seven Bridges, the Butts, Rotten Row, now West Street; Hosier's Lane and Pangbourne Lane. In 1 Mavor, 464. 10 READING DURING THE EARLY PART London Ward is London Street, Mill Lane, Church Lane, St. Giles's Churchyard, Syvier or Silver Street, Ort Lane, and the wharf on the south of the Kennet.' * Area of Occupation. Since 1610, when Speed drew his map of Reading, the inhabited area had grown slowly. In 1801 most of it still lay within the triangle whose base is Friar Street, and whose apex lies on Whitley Hill. The neighbourhood of the Friary was still known as Town^s End. 2 The wide expanse of the Hog Moors, Brigham's Mead, and the Vasterns parted Reading from the Thames and e the neat little village of Caver- sham 3 . Farm lands bordered both sides of Pangbourne Road, now Oxford Road. On Castle Hill, the King's Arms Inn and the turnpike marked the limit of the town : opposite the inn were nursery gardens, and grassy mounds representing the forti- fications of 1643. 3 The valley between Castle Hill and Bob's Mount appeared as meadows and bleaching grounds. Whitley was a detached hamlet. From the heights of Christ Church to the London Road, and from the London Road to the neigh- bourhood of the Abbey, extended the tract of fields known as the Crown Lands and the Orts. Near Red Lane, now Redlands Road, ploughing matches were held * ; from Sidmouth Street eastward New Street (now London Road) ran by fields and hedges 5 ; tradesmen would walk out in summer time to spend the evening at the ( Marquis of Granby ' 6 , ' returning home through the fields 3 7 ; Sidmouth Street itself was known as Wharf Lane ; Queen's Road and King's Road were not made till 1832 ; cattle grazed on the sites of the Biscuit Factory and the Gas Works 8 ; Victoria Square, situated at the distance of a f healthful walk % was not begun till 1845. 9 Most of the site of Abbot's Walk was a garden strewn with Abbey ruins 10 ; and the Forbury then occupied nearly the whole of the original outer court of the Abbey, reaching nearly to the line of Blagrave Street, then Vastern Lane. The north side of Friar Street 1 C. 461-2. Wokingham Road and London 2 C. map. Road. 3 C. map. 7 R. S. A. 79. 4 R. M. Sept. 17, 1804. 8 Octog. 6. 5 Octog. 6. 9 Cp. R. M. Feb. 14, 1846. 6 Situated at the junction of 10 Octog. 19. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 11 represented the northern limit of the town. Business centred in the Market Place and adjacent streets ; while the great road running east and west through the southern outskirts of the town was the route of a continuous traffic. Character of Streets. Streets of leisurely width and dignity, such as London Street, contrasted with ' rows ' and f lanes ', of which some were so narrow that carriages could not pass abreast. 1 In 1760 the removal of a block of houses had con- verted Sun Lane and Back Lane into the modern King Street 2 ; but similar obstructions still bifurcated part of Broad Street, and St. Mary's Butts. The heart of the town was crowded ; dark passages pierced the frontages of the streets to unwhole- some courts and alleys in rear. St. Mary's Churchyard was confined by John a Larder's almshouses on the west, and on the south, until 1816, by a row of dwellings, forming the north side of Gun Street. The network of narrow and winding ways, the result of a haphazard development, was unfavourable to traffic. Notwithstanding the opening of the New Market House in 1800, 3 the streets continued to be encumbered with stalls, barrows, and merchandise ; in Butcher Row carcases overhung the way and the gutters ran with blood ; ill-kept pavements added to the annoyances of the passenger. 4 Such inconveniences, inherited and established, occasionally evoked a protest 5 ; but remedial action was dilatory and partial. Not until 101 children had within memory been drowned in the Holy Brook was the dan- gerous brink protected. 6 Not until the Abbey ruins were in immediate risk of vanishing altogether under the provisions of a building scheme was public action taken to preserve them. 7 As late as 1847 the ruins were f still resorted to when rough stonework is wanted'. 8 The public were content for genera- tions that the only access to the delightful prospects of Forbury Hill should lie through a waste disfigured by heaps of refuse and foul ditches. 9 1 Cp. R. M. June 30, 1823. 7 R. M.July 4 and 11, 1831; Sept. 2 Man, 68. 30, 1833. 5 R. M. Nov. 17, 1800. 8 J. Thorne, Rambles by Rivers, 4 Stranger, 26, 44, 46, 52-3, 57-8. i. 151. 5 Cp. R. M. Sept. 8, 1834. 9 Cp. Stranger, 37 ; R. M. Jan. 6 R. M. May 19, 1817. 14, 1843 ; Apr. 12, 1845. 12 READING DURING THE EARLY PART Buildings. The only buildings of height and mass were the Abbey ruins, then more conspicuous than to-day ; the Water Tower (demolished in 1901) by St. Giles's Mills in Mill Lane ; the County Gaol, east of Forbury Hill ; the Oracle J in Minster Street, with its quadrangular court of greensward 2 and pillared gateway ; and the three parish churches. A few other buildings may be noted. The Town Hall, now known as the small Town Hall, was f a neat unornamented building in the shape of a parallelogram '. 3 It was erected in 1785-6, 4 and in it were held the Lent Assizes. Adjoining it, on the north, stood the buildings of Reading School. The green before them, part of the Forbury, was a territory disputed between the boys of the school and the boys of the town. 5 The piazza, built in 1619 on the south side of St. Lawrence's Church in accordance with the terms of a bequest by John Blagrave, still afforded shelter to market- women. 6 The Blue Coat School, founded in accordance with the will, dated 1646, of Richard Aid worth, was situated at the corner of Silver Street and New Street, now London Road 7 ; the Green Girls' School, founded in 1782, was in Broad Street, removed from St. Mary's Butts in 1790. 8 Mrs. Cadogan's School of Industry for poor girls was established at the west end of Friar Street in 1802 9 ; the great hall of the Abbey was in 1813 adapted for the purposes of an elementary school 10 ; and in 1810 the Lancastrian, or British, School was established in Southampton Street. 11 The poor-house of St. Mary's parish was in Pinckney's Lane, now Coley Street ; that of St. Giles's in Horn Street; and that of St. Lawrence's at the west end of Friar Street. 12 On the site of the old gaol at the foot of Castle Street was erected in 1798 the chapel known later as the Episcopal Chapel of St. Mary. The Baptist Chapel stood in Hosier Street; the Independent Chapel in Broad Street; the Friends' Meeting House in Church Lane ; and the Catholic Chapel in Vastern Lane. The remnants of the Friary were 1 See p. 21. by, was destroyed in 1868 (Notable 2 Octog. 89. Events, 29). 3 Stranger, 31. 7 C. 391. * C. 312, 451. 8 C. 138. 9 Doran, 208. 5 Man, 136-8 ; Octog. 19; R.S. A. 10 R. M. Aug. 9, 1813; R. S. A. 81 ; R. M. Sept. 6, 1851. 23-4 ; Man, 216. 6 This interesting Memorial, to- u Man, 213. gether with the Knollys aisle close 12 C. map. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 13 utilized as a borough bridewell. In Friar Street stood ( a neat little theatre 5 . 1 'Cold, warm, vapour, and shower baths' were opened in Bath Court, near Mill Lane, in 1819. 2 A silk factory occupied the site of the existing parochial schools of St. Law- rence. 3 The King's Arms Inn on Castle Hill derived interest from the fact that about 230 French priests, fleeing from the intolerant legislation of the Revolution, found a temporary refuge beneath its roof at the end of the eighteenth century. 4 Aspect of the Town. Beheld afar, ' delightfully situated on a gradual ascent from the Thames, and washed by the Kennet, which flows through it in several streams/ 5 the town seemed to repose beneath its sentinel churches. Encompassing meadows lapped it in peace. Unmarred by smoke-stacks and railway banks, neither a haunt of fashion nor a seat of manufacture, without straggling suburbs, masking its squalid courts behind the staid demeanour of streets in which the gabled fronts and overhung storeys of an earlier style 6 were intermixed with houses of Georgian dignity, Reading presented the character- istics of an English country town of those days. Permanent usefulness as market-town and distributive centre for a wide area afforded basis for a social life robust, and in some respects coarse ; but although a young lady of literary tastes might complain that in Reading there was ' neither the society of London, nor the freedom of the country', 7 the town was not deficient in amenities, nor even in culture. e An air of gentility is thrown over the place ; and there is an elegant sociability in the manners of the inhabitants, which is irresistibly attractive to strangers.' 8 The highway from London to the West of England passed through it a vitalizing current of national energy, and prevented the routine of its life from lapsing into stagnation. It was thought that the restoration of peace in 1814 would cause many who had in recent years settled in Reading to return ' to the seaboard ' ; but the town continued to grow. 9 Houses began 1 Stranger, 75. 5 Mavor, 463. 2 R. S. A. 81 ; R. M. July 12, 6 Man, 122. 1819. 7 L'Estrange, ii. 72. 3 Octog. 19. 8 Mavor, 463. 4 R. M. Oct. 28, 1843 ; Notable 9 R. S. A. 34. Events, 22. 14 READING DURING THE EARLY PART to arise in the outskirts, chiefly along Oxford Road, where no turnpike checked expansion. The selling of the Crown Lands in 1832, 1 and the opening in the same year of King's Road and Queen's Road, quickened activity in building. 2 In the older streets many houses were rebuilt 3 ; and gradually the town began to lose its old-fashioned demeanour. Communications. Reading communicated with the outer world, prior to 1840, by four principal routes, two by water and two by land. Improvements during the eighteenth century had made the town much more accessible than formerly. I. The Thames. Seated upon its tributary, the Kennet, Reading has always gained from proximity to the Thames. Before the advent of railways, the waterway offered the best and cheapest means for the transport of goods in bulk. Great improvements, initiated in 1772, 4 had been effected in the navi- gation of the Thames, and new canals had made it the trunk- way of an extended system. In 1802 the channel of the Kennet between High Bridge, Reading, and the Thames was canalized. 5 By the construction of the Oxfordshire Canal in 1790 Reading was connected with Birmingham and the Midlands, while the Thames and Severn Canal connected it with Shropshire and Wales. 6 II. The Kennet and the Kennet and Avon Canal. About 1723 the Kennet channel between Reading and Newbury was converted by means of a number of cuts or canals into an effective waterway eighteen and a half miles long, controlled by twenty locks. An important extension was completed in 1810, when the Kennet and Avon Canal, constructed under the direc- tion of John Rennie at a cost of a million sterling, united Newbury and Bristol. 7 The water-borne trade of Reading was further encouraged by the building in 1828 of a new wharf and dock. 8 1 E. M. Nov. 19 and 26, 1832. 5 R. M. Apr. 5, 1802 ; Mavor, 429, 8 E. M. Nov. 19 and 26, 1832 ; 438. Sept. 22, 1834. 6 Mavor, 454. 3 It is recorded that in 1818 the 7 E. M. Jan. 28, 1811 ; Money, first ' viranda ' was erected in Eead- 367-70. ing (E. S. A. 81). 8 Doran, 236. 4 Mavor, 429. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 15 The effect of these improvements in the waterways was greatly to stimulate the trading activity which had suggested them, and to promote the, prosperity of Reading. Previously to 1790, the only coals obtainable in Reading were the sea-borne coals of London l ; but the new waterways enabled cheaper and larger supplies to be drawn from Staffordshire, Shropshire, Wales, and Somerset. 2 Iron and hardware came from Birming- ham, stone from Bath, pottery from Staffordshire, and groceries from London ; while the barges carried from the Reading wharfs great quantities of timber, flour, malt, cheese, and wool. 3 In 1809 it was observed that goods of every description could be bought in Reading as cheaply as in London.* In respect of certain commodities, it was alleged that Reading, since the making of the Kennet and Avon Canal, had an advantage over the Metropolis itself. A shrewd observer comments in 1814 on c the incalculable advantages which we derive from the navigable canal to Bristol, by which the produce of Ireland and our West India settlements, instead of coming round a dangerous coast to London, and from thence to this town, is now brought directly here through the country, and by our grocers distributed among the neighbouring towns and villages at a lower price than by the London merchants, thus causing an influx of wealth to our traders, which is felt through all the town J . 5 Lysons, writing a few years earlier, alludes to f the great influx of trade, occasioned by the improved communica- tions by water both with the Metropolis and the great towns of the west J . 6 No less than 20,000 sacks of flour were sent to London every year 7 ; and in 1835 it was estimated that of the annual import and export trade of Reading, 50,000 tons was water-borne and 100 tons road-borne. 8 The barge traffic, under these circumstances, grew in import- ance. Its stoppage for many weeks was a distressing feature in the great winter of 1813-14. 9 The ( Newbury-sized s barges, which were those mostly used, were 109 feet long, 17 feet in beam, and of 128 tons burden. Each barge was worked by 1 V. C. H. i. 377. 6 Magna Britannia, Berks. 339. 2 Mavor, 454. 7 C. 458 ; Mavor, 465. 3 Cp. Man, 161-2. 8 Doran, 239 ; cp. Guide, 40, 67, 4 Stranger, 40. 95, &c. 6 US. A. 34. 9 R.S. A. 9-13. 16 READING DURING THE EARLY PART six men and a boy. The men, with the aid of a steersman, kept the barge in her course f with incredible dexterity ' by means of ashen poles from 14 to 19 feet in length. They were well paid. Down-stream, one horse sufficed to tow a laden barge; but up-stream, from eight to fourteen might be required. 1 A single barge would sometimes carry 1,200 quarters of malt, 2 or merchandise worth 2,000. 3 In 1814 the cost of carriage from London to Reading was, by road, 2s. 6d. per cwt. ; by river, lie?. 4 Two illustrations, not of intrinsic importance, convey a vivid idea of the utilization of the waterways prior to the introduction of railways. In 1816 a French packet ( laden with linen drapery came up the river from London and cast anchor off High Bridge % leaving again a few weeks later e to go through the country to Bristol'. 5 In 1832 forty-three emigrants, bound for America, began in a barge at Caversham Bridge their long journey by river and canal to Liverpool. 6 Yet just as the inland waterways of England attained their highest perfection, their future was suddenly and disastrously overcast by the introduction of railways. The building of the Great Western Railway, for example, resulted in a few years in a great decrease in the traffic on the Kennet and Avon Canal. 7 III. The London and Bristol Road. As the Thames passed the town upon the north, so the great western road, 8 passing by London Road, Crown Street, Horn Street, Bridge Street, and Castle Street, skirted it upon the south. Traffic along this route was incessant ; f carriages were every minute passing ' 9 ; and the sharp turnings, particularly at the bottom of Castle Street, led to many accidents. 10 Two great inns, the Crown at 1 Mavor, 431-2. roads connected Reading with Lon- 2 Doran, 239. don (1) the road w'aBinfield,Wink- 8 R. S.A. 41. field, and Windsor Great Park; 4 R. S. A. 32. (2) the road via Clewer and Wind- 5 R. S. A. 57. sor ; (3) the road via Loddon Bridge, 6 R. M. March 26, 1832. Wokingham, Bracknell, and Sun- 7 Cp. R. M. Feb. 19, 1848. ninghill. (Cp. Mavor, 425-6.) These 8 This, the London, Bath, and three routes, and the London and Bristol road, was the chief road in Bath route, make a single entry the county. In its course through into Reading. Cp. Paterson, 66, 67, Berkshire it passed through Hun- 97. gerford, Newbury, Reading, Twy- 9 Stranger, 20. ford, and Maidenhead. Three other 10 Ibid. 21 ; R. S. A. 28. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 17 the corner of London Street and Crown Street, and the Bear in Bridge Street, served the needs of those who travelled post or by coach. A third, the King's Arms, stood at the western limit of the town. Many humbler hostelries accommodated wagoners, horsemen, packhorse drivers, carriers, drovers, and other way- farers. Coaches ran every week-day from Reading to London. 1 There are now (1815) four coaches going from here to London every day except Sunday/ l Coaches also ran between Reading and Oxford, and along the western road to Cheltenham, Bath, and Bristol. The journey to one of the great London inns, such as the Black Bear, Piccadilly, or the Old Bell, Holborn, occupied five or six hours : fares for a single journey were, inside 12*. to 16s., outside 6s. to 10s. 2 Cheaper but slower passages could be secured by the stage wagons. Coach fares from Reading to Bristol were in 1831, inside 1, outside 10s. 3 It was observed, at the beginning of the last century, that by reason of the advantages of its position f many respectable private families ' were induced to build villas in or near Reading.* The daily service of fast coaches was also of material value to men of business, for it enabled a Reading tradesman to travel to London in the morning, transact business, and return to Reading in the evening. 5 Fish, fresh from the morning's market at Billingsgate, was daily cried in Reading at 2 o'clock. 6 The highway was, of course, the fastest route of communication, and along it, therefore, sped the news. At moments of national crisis men turned to the elm-shadowed vista of London Road to await tidings borne by an express rider, or by *a post-chaise drawn by four horses at full speed 5 . 7 IV. The Southampton Road. The fourth principal channel of communication, but of inferior importance to the preceding, was the road which, passing through Basingstoke and Win- chester, joined Reading to Portsmouth and Southampton. The Post. There was no official day post between Reading and London until December, 1839. 8 The London mail left 1 R. S. A. 40 ; Guide, 30-9, 63-6, 4 Stranger, 78. 92-5, etc. E Ibid. 2 Cp. R. M. Jan. 27, 1806 ; R.S. A. 6 Ibid. 79. 40, 45, 48 ; R. M. Nov. 20, 1826. 7 Cp. R. M. March 28, 1831. 3 R. M. Jan. 10, 1831. 8 R. M. Dec. 21, 1839. 18 READING DURING THE EARLY PART Reading after 9 p.m., and reached London about 7 a.m. Reading letters addressed to provincial destinations would be delayed in many cases in London till the dispatch of the night mail. Thus a letter posted in Reading at 9 p.m. on Monday would not reach Birmingham till 9 a.m. on Wednesday. 1 The district postal system was even more defective : until 1825, for example, there was no daily post between Henley and Reading, and the regulations for the delivery of cross-post letters were inconvenient and expensive. 2 Gradually, however, the local posts were improved, and in 1838 the letter-rate between Reading and Henley was reduced to 2d. 3 In the same year the town for- warded a petition ' with 61 feet of signatures ' to the House of Commons craving for a uniform penny post. 4 After May 1, 1840, the mails to and from London were dispatched by rail- way. 5 The introduction of the penny post in January, 1841, caused the monthly average of letters delivered in Reading to leap from about 3,800 to 10,000. 6 A larger post office was established in Broad Street, and branch offices soon became necessary in the eastern and southern districts. 7 In 1844 the Reading postmen, then fewer than six in number, were presented with official uniforms by public subscription. 8 In the autumn of 1839 telegraphic communication was in process of installation on the Great Western Railway. 9 Steam Locomotion. The value, for every kind of social pur- pose, of swift and sure means of communication, had led during the eighteenth century to energetic and successful efforts to improve the roads, and the vehicles and horses that used them. The development of the canal had seemed to solve the problem of transporting weight and bulk. But a revolution in locomotion was to distinguish the early years of the nineteenth century. The ingenious vehicle drawn at a rapid speed by a kite twenty feet long which passed through Reading in 1826 stirred only idle curiosity ; 10 but a deeper interest attached to the arrival 1 R. M. May 12, 1838. 6 R. M. Feb. 6, 1841. 2 Berks. Chron. March 12, 1825 ; Mbid. R. M. March 3, 1834. 8 R. M. May 25, 1844. 3 R. M. May 12, 1838. R. M. Sept. 7, 1839. 4 Ibid. 10 R. M. Aug. 21, 1826. 6 R.M.April25, 1840. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 19 in August, 1829, of the first steam car seen in Reading. This machine was affirmed to move at the rate of sixteen miles an hour, and resembled e a gentleman's market waggon -*. 1 As early as 1813 a steam barge on its way from Bath to London had passed through Reading ; 2 and in July, 1835, a steam- boat, propelled by a stern paddle, and said to be bound ( for Holland', carried passengers from Reading down the Thames to London. 3 In 1835 a steam carriage was received with cheers in Reading after traversing the forty miles between London and Reading in 3 hrs. 4 min. 4 Legislation, however, drove mechanical carriages off the road, and for a long period after 1835 steam- boats were rarely seen upon the river. Yet the year 1835 does not lack distinction in the history of Reading, since it witnessed the passing of an Act of Parliament authorizing a Great Western Railway. The Great Western Railway. The prospectus of the Great Western Railway appeared in the Reading Mercury on Sept. 30, 1833. It stated that the new railway would connect London and Bristol ; that its construction would take four or five years ; that the cost would amount to nearly 3,000,000 ; and that a dividend of 12 per cent, on the capital might be expected. The Mercury supported the scheme ; but a correspondent de- clared that f London and Bristol, as two places of import, could have neither community of trade nor reciprocity of interest', and that the railway would merely fill the pockets of e solicitors, surveyors, and contractors '. In December a meeting of land- owners in opposition to the scheme was held at the Bear Inn, Reading; 5 but opinion in the town was generally favourable. In March, 1834, a Town's Meeting resolved in favour of the railway; 6 a petition from the Mayor and Burgesses of Reading in favour of the Great Western Railway Bill then before Par- liament was presented by Mr. Charles Russell, one of the Borough Members. 7 A petition from the opposition at Reading was presented by Mr. Charles F. Palmer, the colleague of 1 R. M. Aug. 3, 1829. 6 Berks. Chron. Dec. 14, 1833 ; 2 R. S. A. 5, 6. R. M. Dec. 16, 1833. 8 R. M. July 27, 1835. 6 R. M. March 3, 1834. 4 R. M. July 20, 1835. 7 R. M. March 17, 1834. B2 20 READING DURING THE EARLY PART Mr. Russell. 1 In August, 1835, the Bill passed the House of Lords, notwithstanding the Duke of Cumberland's protest that the measure would be ruinous to the discipline of Eton College. 2 ' After an opposition unexampled for its bitter contumacious- ness, this great measure passed last night without a division. The glad tidings was received in this town with much rejoicing, and the bells of the three parishes rang right merrily.' 3 The construction of the railway was begun with energy in February, 1836. Progress was less rapid than in other similar under- takings owing to the adoption by Brunei of the broad gauge and longitudinal sleepers. 4 In the spring of 1837 gangs of men, at night working by the light of coach lamps, were digging the cutting through the high ground near Sonning. 5 In June, 1838, the railway was opened from London to Maidenhead ; 6 the f immense moving houses', travelling at the rate of 28 miles an hour, stirred lively interest. 7 In June, 1839, the line was opened as far as Twyford. 8 In July the contract for a station at Reading was taken up at a sum exceeding 12,000. 9 In August a ' guide 3 was issued describing the line as far as Reading. 10 The line was opened to Reading on March 30, 1840. On that day the town was thronged by a vast influx of visitors. Seats for spectators were ranged on the platform of the station, and the arrival of the first train was cheered by multitudes on Forbury Hill. The fastest trip from London to Reading on that day occupied 1 hr. 5 min. 11 The trains were met by omnibuses from the Crown and the Bear Inns; 12 but in 1844 the opening of the Great Western Hotel 13 in close vicinity to the station showed clearly enough what the effect of the new locomotion must be upon the remoter hostelries which depended on the traffic of the roads. In 1844 the railway fares, which were regarded as excessive, between Reading and London, were first class 8s., second class 5s. 6d. third class 3s. u The coaches soon abandoned the unequal competition. It was stated in 1 R. M.March 17, 1834. 8 R.M. Jane 22, 1839. 2 R. M. Aug. 31, 1835. 9 R. MJuly 20, 1839. 3 Ibid. 10 R. M. Sept. 7, 1839. R. M. Sept. 7, 1839. u R. M. April 4, 1840. 5 R. M. March 4 ; Nov. 4, 1837 12 Ibid. 8 R. M. May 26, 1838. 1S R. M. March 9, 1844. 7 R. M. June 2, 1838. " R. M. Sept. 21, 1844. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 21 1844 that the only mode of passenger conveyance now left between Reading and London was the railway train. 1 Con- servatism and innovation were curiously blended in the practice of the Duke of Wellington, who used to drive in his travelling carriage from Strathfieldsaye to Reading railway station, and then, instead of entering the ' saloon 3 , would order his carriage to be put on the train, and thus proceed to London. 2 In 1841 the Great Western Railway was completed as far as Bristol. 3 The connexion between the Great Western Railway at Reading and the London and South Western Railway (opened from London to Southampton in 1840) at Basingstoke was effected in 1848. 4 The line between Reading and Newbury was opened in 1847. 5 In 1849 Reading was connected with the South Western system at Farnborough. 6 Trade and Industry. It has already been observed that the prosperity of Reading depended chiefly upon its central and accessible situation in a region of great agricultural activity, and upon the resulting business of exchange, transport, and distribution. At the beginning of the century no single in- dustry held predominance. Industrial activity was for the most part absorbed in the ordinary crafts and pursuits indispensable to the existence and comfort of the community. The age of cloth was over; the age of the seed and the biscuit was yet to come. (i) The Oracle and its Industries. A few relics yet lingered of the great staple industry of cloth, which, from the thirteenth to the seventeenth century, had been the mainstay of the town. Some of these relics were to be found in the extensive building situated at the angle of Minster Street and Gun Street, and known as the Oracle. 7 By will, dated 1624, John Kendrick, a clothier of London but a native of Reading, left to the Corpora- tion of Reading 7,500, nearly the whole of which was to be devoted to the purchase of ' a fair plot of ground within the town of Reading ', the erection upon it of ' a strong house of 1 R. M. Sept. 21, 1844. 6 R. M. Jan. 1, 1848. 2 R. M. Jan. 25, 1845. 6 R. M. July 7, 1849. 3 R. M. July 17, 1841. 7 For explanations of this term 4 R.M. Nov. 11, 1848. see Man, 151-2, and Coates, 149. 22 READING DURING THE EARLY PART brick, fit for setting the poor to work therein, with a garden adjoining ' ; and the maintenance of f a common stock, to be employed and bestowed in trades of clothing, and also in work- ing of stuffs for dyeing, or otherwise } . In the event of the trust being administered contrary to the testator's intention, the property would pass to the Mayor, Commonalty, and Citizens of London for the benefit of Christ's Hospital. Agreeably to the terms of the will, premises in Minster Street were bought in 1625, and a house of industry erected. 1 The history of this foundation accorded ill with the generosity of its scale and purpose. The cloth trade in Reading had already passed the zenith of its prosperity, and the civil wars of the seven- teenth century reduced it to ruin. Disputes soon arose about the administration of the trust, 2 and early in the reign of William and Mary the City of London tried to secure the reversion. 3 The attempt failed, but throughout the eighteenth century the languishing and unsatisfactory state of the business carried on at the Oracle continued to be a satire upon the aspirations of the founder. 4 In 1812 ' the whole mass of building was going to ruin 3 . 5 The industries, for which parts of the premises were rented or used at that time, included the weaving of ' galoons, satin, ribands, and other light fabrics '. 6 There was also a small f floor-cloth manufactory 3 ; and l some sail-making, twine, and rope-making *. 7 Women earned from 6*. to 10*. weekly at these occupations, and men from 15s. to 25s. 8 In 1825 silk-looms in the Oracle are mentioned. 9 f Mr. Miles, sail-cloth manufac- turer, 5 carried on business there in 1832. 10 There was also a pin manufactory which in 1815 ( furnished employment for many of the industrious poor'. 11 Pin-making, a branch of industry introduced to Reading as early as the reign of Elizabeth, 12 was carried on at the Oracle as late as 1842. 13 In 1836 the Charity Commissioners reported that the funds of Kendrick's bequest had been misapplied. In 1848 Christ's 1 Report ef Commissioners (Char- 6 Mavor, 465. ities) 1818, pp. 30-1. 7 Ibid. 8 Ibid. * Man, 153. 9 Berks. Chron. Oct. 13. 1827. 3 Ibid. 159-60. 10 R. M. Feb. 27, 1832. 4 Cp. e.g. V. C. H. i. 391 ; Man, u Man, 160. 143-5. 12 V. C. H. i. 378. 6 Octog. 89. 13 R. M. July 30, 1842. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 23 Hospital instituted a suit in the Vice-Chancellor's Court, in which they claimed all that arose from the original bequest of 7,500. Their claim was upheld by the Court. 1 The decision caused f consternation ' in Reading, and it was resolved to appeal. The appeal was fruitless. The Lord Chancellor stated that there had been neglect in carrying out the trusts for more than one year, and that forfeiture to Christ's Hospital had resulted. 2 In 1850 the Oracle and its effects were sold. The building was described as quadrangular, with a square court of 150 feet by 100. Facing Gun Street was a gateway flanked by two Ionic columns, and above it a niche intended for the founder's statue. The carved oak gates bore his monogram. 3 South of the building was a large plot of ground, formerly used as a ' tenter-ground 3 , and recently as a rope-walk. Parts of the building were in good preservation. An oak staircase, some old chimney-pieces, and oak panelling were admired features. 4 (ii) Other Industries. In 1816 Musgrave Lamb owned an old-established sail-cloth manufactory in Katesgrove Lane, in which there were 140 looms. The sail-cloth produced here was of excellent quality, and was bought for the Royal Navy, and for the East India Company's service. 5 Early in the century there were small silk-manufactories in Minster Street, East Street, and London Street. 6 A larger silk manufactory occupied part of the Abbey buildings ; 7 and in 1841 Messrs. Baylis were erecting f an extensive silk manufactory in King's Road '. 8 In 1809 it was computed that about 500 persons found employment in Reading in the making of ( gauze, silk handkerchiefs, and galoon'. 9 In 1789 James Cocks began the Reading sauce industry, and in 1814 he vindicated his proprietary rights in the law courts. 10 There were five breweries in Reading. The brewery of Messrs. Stephens was the chief, and was said to produce 25,000 barrels of beer and porter annually. 11 In 1785 William Blackall Simonds established a brewery in Broad 1 R. M. Jan. 15, 1848. 6 Cp. V. C. H. i. 396 ; R. M. Oct. 1 R. M. Nov. 17, 1849. 15, 1842 ; Octog. 107. 8 They were sold for .1 (R. M. 7 Octog. 19. Nov. 30, 1850), and are now to be 8 R.M. Sept. 25, 1841. seen in Tilehurst Road. 9 Mavor, 466 ; C. 232. 4 R. M. Nov. 30, 1850. 10 R. M. July 4, 1814 ; R. S. A. 20. 5 Man, 161 ; Mavor, 466. u Mavor, 465. 24 READING DURING THE EARLY PART Street, which in 1790 was moved to Bridge Street. 1 Tanning and brickmaking had long been established as Reading indus- tries. There were several iron- foundries ; 2 in the middle of the century the Katesgrove iron-works of Messrs. Barrett, Exall, and Andrews were extensive. 3 Barge-building 4 and coach-building were also represented. 5 Gun-making was a very minor industry, 6 and during this period, as well as both earlier and later, the Reading printers were busy. 7 The large business of Messrs. Huntley, Boorne, and Stevens, makers of tin boxes for biscuits and for other commodities and purposes, dates from 1840. 8 (iii) Seeds. Interest attaches to the origin of the firms con- nected with seeds and biscuits which have given Reading so wide a reputation in recent times. A very early advertisement, in 1833, announces that ' John Sutton, corn and seed warehouse, 13, King Street, Reading, takes this opportunity of returning his sincere thanks to his numerous friends for the very liberal sup- port he has received at this establishment for upwards of twenty- five years \ 9 In 1835 John Sutton's exhibition of tulips excited much admiration. 10 The initiative and expert knowledge, how- ever, which made the firm famous, were due to John Sutton's son, Martin Hope Sutton (1815-1901), who in 1837 began business as a seed merchant, and was joined by his father. The firm was known as John Sutton and Son. 11 (iv) Biscuits. In 1841 George Palmer came to Reading and joined Thomas Huntley as partner. An early, if not the earliest, advertisement of a firm which was to make a world-wide business and reputation, appeared in 1845. ' Huntley and Palmer, 72, London Street, Reading, manufacturers of the superior Reading biscuits, respectfully solicit attention to the patent unfermented bread made solely by them.' 12 In 1850 the ' Reading Biscuit Factory 3 is mentioned. 13 In the following year the firm were 1 Notable Events, 21. 8 V. C. H. i. 381. 2 V. C. H. i. 384. 9 R. M. Nov. 4, 1833. 3 R. M. June 2, 1849. 10 R. M. May 25, 1835. 4 V. C. H. i. 386. " Cp. R. M. July 13, 1839. 5 Octog. 16, 109. R. M. Jan. 11, 1845. 6 V. C. H. i. 379. 1S R. M. Feb. 9, 1850. 7 Cp. V.C.H. i. 400-2. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 25 employing 200 persons, and from that date the progress of the business proceeded by leaps and bounds. Local Tokens. In 1812, Mr. J. B. Monck, of Coley Park, in consequence of the scarcity of coin, began to issue local tokens in silver and gold, the circulation of which should be lawful until March 25, 1813. 1 Mr. Monck undertook to attend at the Bear Inn at stated times in order to exchange his tokens for bank- notes ; and he expressed the hope that before his tokens were withdrawn the Government would provide the country with a coinage of standard money, and not leave it longer * a prey to a compulsory paper currency '. 2 Mr. Monck's spirited action seems to have been heartily welcomed, for i previous to the issue of your tokens^, says a correspondent of the Reading Mercury, 'almost every individual, but in particular the retail tradesmen, had cause to complain of the most distressing scarcity of small silver money for the purposes of change. So great was the deficiency, that many tradesmen were compelled for want of it either to turn away their customers or give credit for very small sums, a circumstance attended with very great additional trouble, and frequently terminating in the loss both of their customers and of their debt. The copper that was in- troduced as a substitute for silver became from its accumulation oppressive, and was rather an introduction of a fresh evil than a relief. But the large and liberal coinage of your tokens has made silver this year abundant, compared with the year pre- ceding, and has given a proportional facility to trade/ 3 On December 20, 1814, it is recorded : t The time allowed by Act of Parliament for the circulation of local tokens expiring to-day, those issued by J. B. Monck, Esqr. were paid in current coin at the bank of Marsh, Deane & Co/ 4 Coinage troubles continued to embarrass Reading tradesmen for several years. 5 Banks. There were several banks in Reading. In 1790 a bank was opened by Messrs. Stephens, Simonds, and Harris. 6 1 Man, 113-4. 8 Cp. R. S. A. 56, 62, 64, 66 ; cp. 2 R. M. Sept. 7, 1812. Spencer Walpole, History of Eng- 3 R. M. Sept. 21, 1812 ; see illus- land, i. 396-406. tration in Man at p. 113. 6 Notable Events, 22. 4 R. S. A. 33. 26 In July, 1814, this partnership was dissolved ' by mutual con- sent 5 , and ( W. B. Simonds, Esq., established another banking house in King Street, the firm consisting of himself, one of his sons, two cousins, and a Mr. Nicholson'. 1 A Savings Bank was established in London Street in 1817, 2 and a branch of the London and County Bank in 1851. 3 On January 6, 1816, the bank of Marsh, Deane & Co. in Reading stopped payment. This disaster spread panic through the town, for the bank had been largely trusted ; ( so substantial was their credit considered, that almost every individual is an actor in this mournful scene/ 4 On January 25 bankruptcy commissioners sat at the Bear Inn to receive notes from holders. So great was the crush, that those who succeeded in getting into the room could only get out by the window. 5 In July, 1816, the assignees began paying a dividend of 3*. 4 2 R.M. Aug. 31, 1839. 6 Cp. Octog. 19 ; Sketch of 13 Cp. Man, 189 ; R. M. July 13 school and playground by Havell, and Aug. 31, 1839 ; June 15, 1844 ; c. 1816. Doran, 197-8. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 71 attracted to Reading by the reputation of the school. 1 Men of social and public standing were proud to have been his pupils. For many years the ' noblemen and gentlemen educated at Reading School 3 were wont to dine together annually in London. 2 By a provision in a deed of gift dated 1640, Archbishop Laud, who was himself educated at the school, arranged that a visitation of the school should be held triennially by the Vice-Chancellor of Oxford, the President of St. John's College, and the Warden of All Souls College. The Visitors were to inspect the administration of Laud's charities, and to deter- mine whether the schoolmaster was f able and diligent'. 3 Valpy was quick to appreciate the value of this distinguished link with the University of Oxford. The programme on visita- tion days consisted in an examination of the boys, partly oral, conducted by the Visitors or in their presence; a collation, served sometimes in the f red hall, one of the most capacious, lofty, and noble apartments within the borough ' ; 4 and the recitations or dramatic performances by the boys. Valpy devoted great attention to these performances. ( He edited for them acting and Bowdlerized editions of four of Shakespeare's plays and four of those of Plautus. Imitating Winchester under Queen Elizabeth, and anticipating Bradfield under Queen Victoria, Valpy also produced Greek plays of Sophocles and Euripides in Greek costume '. 5 On these occasions ' many distinguished and literary characters from the town and neighbourhood' attended. 6 The performances took place 'on the lower floor of the old Town Hall'. 7 Leading musicians of the town assisted in the orchestra, 8 and Miss Mitford frequently wrote f the official puff account ' for the press. 9 Richard Valpy, D.D., was a native of Jersey, and was educated at Pembroke College, Oxford. After holding a mastership at Bury, 10 he became Head Master of Reading School in 1781, and from 1787 he held also the rectory of Stradishall, Suffolk. 11 His 1 R.M. July 13, 1839. 6 Cp. e.g. R. M. Oct. 22, 1792; 2 Cp. e. g. R. M. Jan. 10, 1814 ; Oct. 20, 1806. Hist. MSS. Comm. 226. 7 Octog. 113. 3 Bruce, 21-8, 47, 48. 8 Ibid. 4 R. M. Aug. 2, 1851. L'Estrange, ii. 140 ; cp. C. 6 V. C. H. ii. 258 ; L'Estrange, ii. 320-1. 189-191. 10 C. 346. " Ibid. 72 READING DURING THE EARLY PART Greek Delectus and Latin Delectus were long familiar to public school boys. f He is said to have been a mighty flogger, and to have refused two bishoprics/ 1 In 1800 he was requested by his old pupils to sit for a full-length portrait ; 2 and thirty years later, on the occasion of his jubilee, he was presented with a service of plate. 3 He died in London in 1836. 4 A statue was erected in St. Lawrence's Church to commemorate him. 5 Dr. Valpy was a leading figure in local life, and his countenance and aid were generally sought in enterprises of a public character. He was keenly interested in the work of the Humane Society, 6 and he was chaplain to the Reading Volunteers. 7 In politics he was a Reformer, and he often spoke at public meetings. One who knew him, possibly Talfourd, described him as f at once the polished gentleman and scholar, 5 who f by con- summate tact, prepossessing manners, and affectionate treat- ment, drew around him a class of disciples gathered from every part of the empire, numerous and various in rank and profession, many destined to fill, and now filling, some of the highest stations in the walks of life 5 . 8 Miss Mitford has spoke of him as ( vainer than a peacock J , but she differed from him on points of literary taste, and some latitude of expression is sanctioned by usage, even between good friends, upon such occasions. 9 Another writer has described the doctor's love of hospitality, his apprecia- tion of tokay, his interest in dramatic literature, and his open- mindedness. f He was not merely a man of learning, but also a man of the world/ 10 The school was declining before Valpy^s long reign closed. His successor was his son, Francis Valpy, appointed in 1830. The number of scholars fell rapidly, and in 1839 Valpy resigned. 11 Robert Appleton, who had been chaplain at the County Gaol, succeeded. 12 In 1842 it was stated that since the new head master's appointment the number of boys in the school had doubled. 13 Two years later, however, there were only forty-four boys in attendance. 14 Simultaneously, difficulties arose about the 1 V. C. H. ii. 258. 8 Quoted in Octog. 216. 2 R. M. Oct. 27, 1800. 9 Cp. L'Estrange, ii. 36, 140-1. 3 R. M. Oct. 23, 1830. 10 Recollections, ii. 60, 76. 4 R. M. June 17, 1905. J1 R. M. July 13, 1839. 5 R.M. Dec. 15, 1838. 12 R. M. Sept. 7, 1839. 6 Cp. Octog. 57 ; R. S. A. 69. JS R. M. Oct. 15, 1842. 7 R. M. Jan. 2, 1804. " R. M. April 6, 1844. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 73 tenure of the land upon which the school buildings stood. The land was leasehold for three lives, and the lease was allowed to expire. 1 The school failed to make headway, and in 1866 it came under the condemnation of the Endowed Schools Commission. There were then only three boys in the school. Appleton resigned, and the school was closed for four years, pending its revival under entirely new conditions. 2 (ii) Intellectual Activities of Adults. c The book most read here is the Bible/ wrote a local critic in 1810; *next to that is Moore's Almanac/ 3 The time was one of mental stir ; but the local tradesman and his family had few chances of mental cultivation. During the early years of the century, public lectures and public reading rooms and libraries were practically unknown. Those who wished to learn the news would gather occasionally in a large room to hear the Times read aloud. 4 A small sheet of news cost f ourpence or sixpence ; books were few and not cheap. If the local isolation of a past age had ceased, yet experience was still narrowly limited. But neither these conditions nor the quietude of a country town were inconsistent with the presence of a cultured minority and a general eagerness for enlightenment. (a) Book Club. One of the earliest literary associations, if not the first, to be formed in Reading was a small Book Club which arose about 1802. It seems to have quickly become con- vivial rather than intellectual, and its career was short. 5 (b) Permanent Library and Literary Institution. More pre- tentious organizations arose in 1807-8 : the Permanent Library, and the Literary Institution. 6 The latter rested on a basis of subscribers and shareholders, was suitably housed, and employed a librarian. (e) Philosophical Institution. In 1831 the founding of a Philosophical Institution showed that science was beginning to 1 V. C. H. ii. 258 ; R. M. June 15, 4 Octog. 21. 1844. 6 Cp. E. M. March 5, 1842. 2 V. C. H. ii. 258. e R. M. June 29, 1807. 8 Stranger, 117. 74 READING DURING THE EARLY PART touch the public imagination. 1 Its quarters c at the offices of Messrs. Compigne and Darvall', its library and museum, its lectures, and its sixty shareholders, made it a rival of the Literary Institution, which in 1839 was said to consist of a news room and f a somewhat antique library 5 . 2 In 1841 both institutions were languishing ; 3 and it was agreed to close them, and to form a new literary and scientific organization under the title of the Athenaeum. (d) Athenaeum. The decision to form an Athenaeum, open to all classes, creeds, and parties, was taken at a public meet- ing in December, 1841. 4 The house in Friar Street, previously occupied by the Literary Institution, was bought; and to it were transferred the properties of the Philosophical Institution. 5 The Athenaeum succeeded in establishing itself as one of the permanent institutions of the town. (e) Mechanics' Institution. This reorganization had been prompted by the founding of a new institution. In 1826 a Mechanics' Institution had been established 'near the Bear Inn V During its first year of life, it spent 230 on ' books, models, and lectures } ; 7 but its life appears to have been brief. In November, 1840, the prevailing enthusiasm for the spread of knowledge, wedded to the energy and eloquence of Dr. Cowan, resulted in the formation of a new Mechanics' Institution. 8 Three years later it was declared that only fifteen mechanics had joined it ; 9 and the members, chiefly respectable tradesmen, renamed it the Literary, Scientific, and Mechanics' Institution. 10 The Prince Consort headed the list of its patrons ; u Cowan was its first, 12 and Talfourd its second president ; 13 in 1843 Mr. G. Grossmith was its honorary secretary. 14 This institution deserves honour for having been the pioneer of popular educa- tion in Reading. Every winter the directors, who in 1843 established their institution at the new public rooms, London 1 R.M. Jan. 31, Feb. 21, 1831. 8 R. M. Nov. 14, 1840. 2 R. M. Sept. 28, 1839. 9 R. M. March 18, 1843. 3 Cp. R. M. April 9, 1842. 10 R. M. March 11, 1843. * R. M. Jan. 1, 1842. " R. M. Nov. 14, 1840. s R. M. April 23, Oct. 15, 1842. 12 R. M. March 5, 1842. 6 R. M. Jan. 15, 1827. 1S R.M. March 30, 1844. 7 Ibid. " R. M. March 11, 1843. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 75 Street, 1 provided weekly lectures which often drew large audiences. These lectures made no attempt at sequence; literary, scientific, and miscellaneous subjects were included in the courses. It became evident that while the Athenaeum leant more towards the character of a club, the Mechanics' Institution with its lectures, elementary classes, essay and discussion meet- ings, social evenings, manuscript magazine, library, museum, and reading room was intent on discharging to the full, not- withstanding many discouragements, its original missionary purpose. 2 (f) Medical Societies. The Reading Pathological Society, one of the oldest medical societies in the country, was founded in 1841 'for the discussion of medical and surgical subjects, of cases, and of other matters connected with the profession '. Its head-quarters were at the Hospital. A Medico-Chirurgical Society had been established as early as 1824 to maintain a medical library, and diffuse medical literature. 3 (g] Theatre. It was remarked in 1810 that partly f owing to the bigotry of the Methodists ' and partly to ' the immoderate thirst for gain that pervades every class of shopkeepers', dramatic performances l in this enlightened town, are not only received with disgust, and treated with neglect, but the people are instructed from the pulpit to consider them as dangerous to religion '. 4 A generation later, observations similar in tenor were repeated. 6 Under these circumstances, the fortunes of the e neat little theatre, where a very respectable company per- form for a few weeks in autumn ', 6 were not conspicuous. In 1815 a comedy by Talfourd was performed, but 4 no one ex- pressed a wish to have it repeated ' ; T in 1827, a tragedy by Miss Mitford, 8 and in 1840 Talfourd's Glencoe? In 1826, and for some years subsequently, much interest was taken in the performances of Masters B. and W. H. Grossmith, natives of the town, who at the early ages of eight and six showed 1 E.M. Oct. 28, 1843. 5 R. M. Jan. 9, 1841 ; Jan. 21, 9 Cp. R. M. Dec. 12, 1840 ; May 1843. 1, 1841 ; March 19, 1842 ; Feb. 11 6 Stranger, 75. and March 18, 1843 ; May 8, 1847. 7 R. S. A. 44. 8 Hurry, 1, 2, 5. 8 R. M. June 11, 1827. 4 Stranger, 75-6. 9 R. M. Nov. 21, 1840. 76 READING DURING THE EARLY PART versatility and cleverness in dramatic assumption. 1 It was affirmed in 1843, when the brothers retired from the stage, that they 'had visited every city and town in Great Britain and Ireland '. 2 (h) Music. The standard in music was much higher, and the appreciation much more general. The record of the town during this period is indeed in some respects distinguished. The local professional leaders were Mr. Binfield and Mr. Venua. Mr. Binfield was organist of St. Lawrence's Church for thirty- five years, and his daughter held the same post for more than forty years after his death in 1839. 3 Mr. Binfield's chief title to fame is in connexion with triennial musical festivals. In 1806 a Reading festival, f the first which has taken place for twenty years, 5 4 was held, when the Messiah was performed in the Town Hall under his conductorship. 6 These festivals, which took the name of the ' Berkshire Musical Festivals', came to be held triennially, and were musical occasions of the first importance. In 1819 the festival lasted three days; the conductor was Sir G. Stnart ; the morning performances took place in St. Lawrence's Church, where there was a fine organ, 6 and the evening performances in the To"wn Hall; the pro- gramme included Haydn's Creation and Handel's Messiah ; and the leading performers were of national reputation. 7 In 1831 works of Handel and Spohr were rendered, and singers came from Westminster, Windsor, Oxford, and Lancashire. 8 These festivals were eagerly patronized by music lovers from near and far. In 1842 Mr. Bilson Binfield, son of 'the founder' of the triennial festivals in Reading, arranged a festival which caused ' every house in town and country to be filled with visitors '. 9 Mr. Binfield, senior, also organized during many years amateur concerts of merit, which were very popular. 10 Mr. Venua, who 1 Cp. R. M. July 31, 1826 ; Jan. works by Bach and Handel were per- 23, 1832; Dec. 23, 1837; May 2, formed in Reading (R. M. ; C. 161). 1840. 6 R. M. July 28, 1806. * R. M. Jan. 28, 1843. 6 R.M. May 26, 1834; C. 161. 3 R. M. Jan. 4 and 25, 1840; 7 Octog. Ill; R. M. Sept. 20, R. 0. Aug. 7, 1880 ; Kerry, 166. 1819. 4 The history of good musical 8 R. M. Oct. 24, 1831. performance in Reading could 9 R. M. Sept. 17, Oct. 8, 1842. doubtless be traced to a much 10 Cp. e. g. R. M. Nov. 19, 1804 ; earlier date. In 1774, for example, Feb. 2, 1818. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 77 came from Twyford to live at Reading about the year 1820, was a teacher of dancing and also an able musician. 1 He founded an amateur musical society which gave excellent concerts before and after the year 1830. 2 The fortunes of this society seem to have declined subsequently. 3 There can be no question, however, that during the period under consideration music held a very high place in local regard. e The patronage Mr. Binfield received exceeded anything of the kind known to us. 5 4 (iii) Literary Culture and Associations. The standards of taste and thought then in fashion would seldom be accepted to-day. The art teacher was applauded who equipped his studio with ' models of rustic buildings and trees cut into picturesque shapes ' in order to save his pupils from the hazards of consulting nature in an uncertain climate. 5 Literary criticism gushed forth in utterances f replete with beautiful sentiment'. 6 The boldest local advocate of the claims of natural science declared in 1845 that ' the Holy Scriptures ought to be taken as a rule for science as well as for general conduct \ 7 But these bygone attitudes and modes must not blind us to the reality of the intellectual awakening. The zeal for popular education, the development of the Reading Mercury between 1820 and 1830 from a lifeless catalogue of news into a spirited organ of political opinion, the restless curiosity aroused by the new scientific achievements and inventions, the prolonged and passionate advocacy of political reforms, are all indicative, as well as many similar signs, of intellectual life and the movement of ideas. Cultivated society in Reading early in the nineteenth cen- tury was to be found only within narrow limits, but it was genuine. Between 1788 and 1830 four notable books were produced by men resident or well known in Reading: the Classical Dictionary of John Lempriere, head of Reading School in 1783, and assistant master there before becoming head master of Abingdon School from 1792 to 1810 ; 8 the Delectus of Valpy ; the History of the Jews, by Henry Hart Milman, 1 Octog. 110-11. 6 R.M. March 24, 1834. 2 Cp. e. g. R. M. Feb. 21, Dec. 17, 6 Cp. R. M. May 27, 1848. 1831. 7 R. M. June 7, 1845. 3 Cp. R. M. Sept. 9, 1843. 8 V. C. H. ii. 258, 271. 4 Octog. Ill, written in 1888. 78 READING DURING THE EARLY PART Vicar of St. Mary's (1817-35) ; and the History of Reading, by Charles Coates. Inferior to these, but yet of merit, were the local histories by John Man (1815), and Doran (1835). Archdeacon Nares, Vicar of St. Mary's (1805-17), was a scholar and author of some distinction. Associated with this literary group were Thomas Noon Talfourd, the friend of Hazlitt, Coleridge, and Lamb, born in Reading, and educated at Reading School, three times Member of Parliament for Reading before he was made a Judge in 1849, who as the author of Ion and Glencoe won for himself a niche among English writers ; and Mary Russell Mitford, who in Our Village and Belford Regis sketched with charm and talent the familiar characteristics of Three Mile Cross and of Reading. Among the literary associa- tions of the period it may perhaps be mentioned that Jane Austen is said to have received in Reading a part of her education ; that Samuel Taylor Coleridge was once stationed in Reading as a soldier ; a that Frederic Bulley, President of Mag- dalen College, Oxford (1855-85), was the son of a well-known Reading doctor; and that Professor Goldwin Smith, whose winning of the Ireland Scholarship at Oxford is recorded in the Reading Mercury of 1845, is the son of i an eminent Reading physician '. z In Miss Mitford^s correspondence will be found numerous references to her literary and social inter- course with the Valpys, the Moncks of Coley Park, the Milmans of St. Mary's, Reading ( Mr. Milman reads and preaches en- chantingly 3 3 Lady Madelina Palmer, Lady Sidmouth, Talfourd, and others whose names were once of note in Reading circles. 4 Condition of the Poor. The social optimism of the middle period of the nineteenth century was in part due to the recol- lection of the harder conditions when the century was young. In March, 1801, wheat sold in Reading market at 190*. per quarter; 5 in February, 1804, at 40s. ; in July, 1812, at 162*. ; and in January, 1815, at 39*. During these years the prices of corn ranged over almost every figure between these extremes. 6 Importation of foreign corn was checked by law ; the Corn Act 1 Diet, of Nat. Biog., vol. xi. 4 L'Estrange, passim. 2 R. M. March 15, 1845. Cp. Man, 96. 3 L'Estrange, ii. 29. 6 R. M. weekly reports. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 79 of 1815, which excited fierce opposition in Reading and else- where, 1 forbade it altogether when the price of English wheat was below 80*. per quarter. 2 The price of bread did not vary directly with the price of corn, but its fluctuations were dis- tressing, and the lowest price was high in relation to wages. During the years 1809-15 the price of the gallon loaf in Reading ranged from 3*. 2d. to 1*. 7d. ; during 1812 the price never fell below 2s. 6d. ; and from October, 1812, to July, 1813, it stood at 3*. Meat was relatively cheaper. Beef, mutton, and bacon cost from 6d. to 1*. per pound, though bacon occasionally rose to 1*. 6d. 3 Butter cost from Is. 3d. to 1*. 9d. per pound. 4 Potatoes in July, 1816, were 4d. per gallon. 5 Herrings when plentiful cost 3d. per dozen. 6 Tea, ( which a modern Englishman (1815) cannot do without/ 7 was sold in Reading in 1814 at rates varying from 7*. to 14s. per pound; 8 and in 1826 at 5*. 6d. or 6*. per pound. 9 It was frequently remarked that provisions were dearer in Reading than at New- bury. 10 Beer, ( as much a necessary as bread/ n cost 5d. or 6d. per quart in 1816, 12 but became much cheaper after the Beer Act of 1831. 13 In 1813 candles cost 15s. 6d. per dozen ; 14 and a long spell of frost, by closing the waterways, would send the price of coal up to 52*. or 68*. per chaldron. 15 House rent for a wage-earner was estimated in 1815 at about 2*. 6d. weekly ; 16 and in 1833 at 3*. or 3*. 6tf. 17 A bad season, a hard winter, or a depression in trade resulted in sharp distress. 18 In 1800-1, when corn sold at famine prices, 1 Cp. R. S. A. 19, 20, 39. 7 R. S. A. 46. 2 'March 2, 1815. A meeting was 8 R.M. Jan. 5, 1814. held at the Town Hall to consider 9 R.M. advts. 1826. of a petition against the Corn Bill ; 10 R. M. March 26, 1821. not one dissentient. The petition u R. M. April 14, 1823. was opened for signatures at two 12 R. S. A. 51, 57. o'clock; at nine o'clock it was ls R. M. Aug. 1, 1831. signed by nearly 3,000.' Riots 14 R. S. A. 8. 15 Ibid, were feared. ' March 15. An order 16 Ibid. 46. was received from the Secretary of 17 R. S. A. contains much useful State to take the locks and bayonets information with regard to the off the local militia guns, and to price of provisions from 1813 to lodge them in the County Gaol.' 1819. (R. S. A. 39, 40.) 18 In 1813 labourers in Reading 8 Cp. R. S.A. 45. earned about 2s. a day (Man, 142). 4 Cp. R. S. A. 8, 54. Skilled artisans might earn 30s. to 5 R. S. A. 54. 40s. a week ' (R. S. A. 46), but such 6 R. S. A. 11. high wages were exceptional. 80 READING DURING THE EARLY PART even the well-to-do ate barley bread or bread made of mixed corn. Rice and coal were sold under cost price to the poor, and soup shops were opened. 1 Terrible suffering was caused by the winter of 1813-14, when the visitation of frost and snow lasted with little intermission for twelve weeks. Between Dec. 25, 1813, and March 9, 1814, no coals reached Reading. 2 e Almost every article in life ' commanded an excessive price. Door-to-door collections were made for the relief of the famishing. For six weeks f bricklayers, shoemakers, weavers, and almost all trades stopt '. 3 The great winter having passed, and Europe being at length at peace, it was hoped that better times would ens vie. Yet in December, 1815, e never yet did we see the suffering of the poor so great as it is now ... we see now a great number of the labouring class of people rambling about our streets without employment and without food'. 4 Many employers discharged their workmen, for whom there remained no resource but ill-organized charity or the ( parish '. l The overseers allow a man and his wife Is. per day, and employ some of the most hearty among them in cleaning the streets, &c. Some are now cleaning our street who used to earn from 30*. to 40s. per week/ 5 At Midsummer, 1816, the situation was little better, though food had become cheaper. 'The labouring class of people are in a most deplorable state; our poor-houses are filled; the overseer's door is surrounded from morning till night by miserable objects soliciting relief.' 6 In the winter of 1816-17, 645 was subscribed and spent in charity. 7 About seventy men were paid 9*. a week for road mending in the Forbury ; 8 and since three gallon loaves then cost Ss. 3d., 'the pawnshop was the one most frequented by those who have any property remaining beside the clothes upon them : those who have not are in a most wretched state ; bread and vegetables constitute the chief of their food, and of this they are obliged to eat sparingly ; sometimes some of them buy a pennyworth of bullock's liver/ In December, 1817, 'the 1 Man, 96 ; R. M. April 27, 1801. 6 R. S. A. 54. 2 R. S. A. 13 ; Octog. 35. 7 R. S. A. 59, 66. 3 R.S.A. 15. 8 R.S.A. 60. 4 R.S.A. 45. 9 R.S.A. 61. 5 R. S. A. 46. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 81 general prosperity of the town has felt no increase. The poor's rates are higher than they were ever known before.' l The years to which these extracts refer belong to a period of exceptional distress. But much poverty in Reading was chronic. ( Poor of all descriptions abound in this town' ; f no town in England is so much infested by common beggars'. 2 The operation of the Poor Laws intensified and complicated the evil they were meant to assuage. For three centuries the problem of pauperism, in some form the complement of industrial liberty, had baffled the wisdom of Parliament. The great Act of 1601, crowning nearly a century of experiment, seemed to promise a system of relief at once remedial and corrective. But overseers and Justices of the Peace, with whom administration rested, proved unequal to their task ; and the subsequent interventions of Parliament were almost uniformly disastrous. Towards the end of the eighteenth centuiy the problem grew rapidly gigantic. Eco- nomic change, making for a greater sum of national prosperity, dealt ruin to classes. The cottager was stinted by the great enclosures ; the small farmer was ousted by intelligence and capital ; the workman, using a traditional skill in his own home, was displaced by mechanical inventions and the factory system. Simultaneously with economic revolution came the long strain of great wars. The situation may have been beyond remedy : but the remedy sought through the abolition of the workhouse test, the wholesale adoption of outdoor relief, and the system of supplementing wages out of the rates, hurried the English people towards an abyss of financial and social ruin. Between 1750 and 1817 the amount expended in the relief of the poor in England and Wales increased more than twelvefold, 3 while the population only doubled. The paupers of 1817 repre- sented one-fourth of the nation. The Poor Law Report of 1834 proved that a large proportion of pauperism was the direct outcome of vicious methods of relief. The case of Reading is typical. Between 1804 and 1830 the cost of poor relief in the parish of St. Lawrence doubled ; 4 1 R. S. A. 71. (Fowle, The Poor Law, 61, 72). 2 Cp. R. M. March 2, 1835. 4 R. M. April 15, 1833. 3 Prom 619,000 to 7,870,801 F 82 READING DURING THE EARLY PART between 1823 and 1833 the cost in the parish of St. Mary rose from 2,540 to 4,505.* In 1812 the poor relief expenditure of the three parishes was 8,985, and it was then observed that the industrious were forced to support the idle and profligate. 2 In 1817 the expenditure amounted to nearly 12,000, or to about 1 per head of the total number of inhabitants. 3 In 1833 the Municipal Commissioners pointed out that the poor rate was excessive in regard to the population. 4 The expenditure was the more striking because of the wealth of Reading in charitable endowments. Each parish had its own poor-house, its own rate, and its own officers and methods under control of its vestry. The report of Mr. Edwin Chadwick, one of the Poor Law Commis- sioners of 1834, on the Reading poor-houses, attracted public attention. ( When Mr. Chadwick's account of Reading was published, 5 observe the Commissioners in their first report on general pauperism, 'many readers thought that the manage- ment of the workhouses described by him must be an exception to the general rule. . . . But in the absence of classification, dis- cipline, and employment, and the extravagance of allowances, the Reading workhouses seem to be merely fair specimens of the ordinary workhouses in thriving towns/ 6 In answer to Mr. Chadwick's inquiries about dietary, the governor of the poor- house in St. Lawrence's parish exclaimed : f Quantity ! why, a bellyful. We never stint them/ 6 Beer was allowed daily; meat thrice weekly; nothing was weighed. 7 Provisions were sold to the overseers by parochial tradesmen ' at a fair advan- tage 5 . 8 A ' potent beverage, two years old 5 , was reserved expressly for the overseers ' after a dry day's work 5 . 9 These gentlemen in 1814 were indicted for spending 19 on a dinner at the George Inn out of a fund collected for the poor. 10 The inmates might receive gifts of tobacco and food c so long as they do not make beasts of themselves J . 11 The poor-house was f cleanly and in good order 5 ; its fifty inmates were f strong and 1 Berks. Chron. Sept. 7, 1833. 7 R. M. April 15, 1833. 2 Cp. also R. M. April 15, 1833. 8 Ibid. 'R.S.A. 71. 9 Ibid. 4 Municip. Comm. Report, 28. 10 R. S. A. 25. 5 Poor Law Report, 43. u R. M. April 15, 1833. 6 R. M. April 15, 1833. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 83 healthy } . As they did no work it was necessary to lock up the bedrooms by day lest f they should come up and lollop about, and roll about in their beds after dinner, or when they are tired of doing nothing '.* By day men, women, and children associated indiscriminately. The paupers found their lot con- genial ; s in general they never leave us/ 2 The overseer's books showed that ( outdoor paupers had nearly the same amount of wages allowed them without work' as independent labourers. One family, of three generations, received from the parish more than 100 a year. 3 At the poor-house in St. Giles's parish a similar tale was unfolded. There were sixty-two inmates ; they did no work ; their diet was ' without stint '. 4 Each man was allowed twenty-one pints of beer a week ; each child or woman, ten pints. ' When people were once on the parish or in the workhouse, it was remarked that they never got them off except by death.' 5 The Vicar of St. Mary's (Milman) declared that the houses in receipt of most relief were the worst in his parish. 6 The reckless charity in fashion was grossly abused : ' the pawnshops are full of clothes given away by benevolent people.' 7 William Winkworth, the public-spirited overseer of the parish of St. Mary, pressed for a union of the parishes as a condition of grappling effectively with the whole problem of pauperism and pauper labour. 8 Yet both the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1834 and the proposal to incorporate the parishes were sharply opposed in Reading. The Reading Mercury denounced the Act, which sheared away the gross abuses of outdoor relief and remodelled the Poor Law administration, as ( a most exe- crable measure ' ; and demanded its repeal within six months. 9 The rate-payers of St. Mary's parish sought exclusion from the local union. 10 But though separate poor-houses were not at once abolished, the three parishes were incorporated, and the first Board of Guardians was elected in 1835. u At the cost of much immediate suffering the system of relief whereby the idle and vicious were able to live in more comfort than the industrious and virtuous was abruptly cut short. 1 R. M. April 15, 1833. 8 Poor Law Report, 268. 2 Ibid. 5 Ibid. 9 R. M. June 30, 1834. 4 Ibid. 6 Ibid. I0 R. M. July 27, 1835. 8 Ibid. 7 Ibid. u R. M. Aug. 17, 1835. F2 84 READING DURING THE EARLY PART Recreations. The recreations of the period were neither so various nor so organized as those of the present day. Cycling, tennis, croquet, golf, boating, cricket, football, hockey, and ex- cursions either did not exist at all, or existed in rudimentary forms. Many old-fashioned kinds of sport were losing popu- larity, as public opinion grew more sensitive and scrupulous. (i) Bull-baiting. Bull -baiting and prize-fighting are in- stances. In 1815 a bull-baiting at Wokingham, a traditional stronghold of this sport, drew spectators from Reading. Two bulls were worried by dogs, and when darkness fell the crowd fought among themselves. 1 (ii) Prize-fights. About 18.23 a prize-fight took place at Rus- combe. The carriages of gentry lined the ring ; the fight lasted an hour and a half. The beaten man was carried off the ground ( with every feature literally knocked out of him '. A clergyman was among the spectators. 2 Public opinion, aided by the law, gradually made such spectacles impossible. Prize-fights were stopped in 1842 at Twyford, and in 1847 at Whitley Wood Common. 3 Nevertheless, in 1846 a prize-fight took place be- tween two women at Emmer Green, Caversham. 4 (iii) Revels and Mayings. The frequent advertisements of Revels and Mayings in the local newspapers suggest that Reading people attended them. At Revels the chief attractions were backsword and wrestling. ' A gold laced hat to be played for (at Bulmershe Revel in 1827) at cudgels by old gamesters, and a good hat for young gamesters, . . . also a hat to be wrestled for, and a cheese to be bowled for.' 5 A Maying took place in 1827 in Whitley Wood, when a f Maying-house ' was erected, and a f game of cricket played for ribbons '. 6 In 1832 ' the first Maying of this year will be held at Spencer's Wood, near this town, where a comfortable bower is to be erected and a band of music to be in attendance'. 7 In 1833 a maypole sixty-three feet high was erected at Nettlebed. 8 It was com- 1 Octog. 36-7. 5 R. M. May 28, 1827 ; cp. Octog. 2 Ibid. 43-6, 49. 47-8. 3 R.M. Dec. 3, 1842 ; Dec. 24, 6 R. M. June 11, 1827. 1847. 7 R. M. May 14, 1832. 4 R. M. Sept. 5, 1846 ; cp. also 8 R. M. Feb. 4, 1833. R. M. Feb. 15, 1851. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 85 puted that 30,000 persons were present at the Revels on White Horse Hill in 1780, and 15,000 at those of 1838. 1 Mayings and Revels gradually fell into disuse, not a little owing to the misbehaviour of those who frequented them. 2 (iv) Reading Races. Reading Races date, it would appear, from about the middle of the eighteenth century. 3 Until 1814 they were held yearly in August on Bulmershe Heath. They were then discontinued, either ' from a want of money to run for V or more probably because of the enclosure of the Heath by a neighbouring landowner. 5 Like many similar meetings in former times, the Reading Races were of local importance only. The sport concluded with a ball in the Town Hall. < The balls were honoured with a most brilliant display of all the fashion and beauty of the neighbourhood/ G Between 1814 and 1843 no races were held ; but in 1843, notwithstanding the protests of local opinion, the meeting was revived, and it was arranged that it should be held on the King's Mead. 7 The races were finally discontinued in 1875. 8 (v) Boating and Rowing. At the beginning of the nineteenth century, the Thames was almost wholly given over to barge traffic, and had not yet become a river of pleasure. An early instance of a river excursion occurs in 1806, when the Reading Book Club 9 invited c a select party ' of seventy-four to ac- company them c in a capacious barge, covered by an awning decorated with festoons', to Lord Malmesbury's seat at Park Place, Henley. The cheerfulness of the party and the beauties of nature beguiled the voyage. At Park Place the party enjoyed f a sumptuous cold dinner ', followed by e a rich dessert and the best wines '. Toasts in keeping with these circumstances were cordially received. The party danced home on the barge. * It was universally agreed that twelve hours were never spent in more rational amusement or more engaging society.' 10 In 1814 1 R. M. May 22, 1780 ; Oct. 6, 1844. It is incorrectly stated in 1838. V. C. H. ii (p. 308) that the races 2 Cp. Octog. 85. were transferred to the King's 3 Cp. V. C. H. ii. 307. Mead in 1813. 4 R. S. A. 41. 8 R. 0. Sept. 11, 1875. 5 Octog. 6. 9 See p. 73. 6 R. M. Aug. 25, 1801. 10 R. M. Aug. 18, 1806. 7 R. M. Aug. 12, 1843 ; Aug. 24, 86 READING DURING THE EARLY PART a party of young men made an excursion to Sonning f in a large boat towed by a horse'. 1 There is nothing to suggest that such use of the river during this period was other than exceptional. In 1841, however, ' Baker's annual water-excursion to Pang- bourne ' is mentioned ; 2 and in 1843 ( Mr. F. Williams ' fitted up f a, commodious boat for water-parties' in order to meet a need not hitherto supplied. 3 By this date, rowing had been popularized at Reading as a sport. In 1831 aquatic sports, including racing, were organized. 4 In 1835 there was a rowing match between two four-oared cutters manned by Reading gentlemen. The course was from Sonning to Rennet's mouth. 5 Similar races were held at Caversham in 1838. 6 In 1842 Reading held its first annual regatta. The course was above Caversham Bridge; the Berkshire shore was lined with tents for sightseers, and the Warren opposite became the f grand promenade'. It was estimated that about 7,000 persons were present. The races included sculling matches, and a four-oared cutter match between crews from Reading and Henley. The occasion was so successful that it was decided to form a Reading rowing club. 7 Regattas were held in 1843 and 1844 ; and new boat clubs arose. 8 But the early enthusiasm suffered a check ; and in 1848 an effort had to be made to revive interest in the regatta and in rowing. 9 (vi) Bathing. There was no lack of natural bathing facilities in a town overlooking the Thames and threaded by the Kennet streams. 10 The death by drowning in 1817 of Alderman William Blandy suggests that at that early period there were those who found pleasure in open-air bathing all the year round : for it was on December 18 that he ( went to the bathing house at Katesgrove to bathe, according to his usual custom, and was drowned'. 11 In 1834 swimming baths, 'immediately connected with the river' (Thames), were opened. 12 In 1843 the growing popularity of the exercise resulted in the building 1 B. S. A. 27. 8 Cp. R. M. April 8, 1843 : May 1 R. M. Sept. 4, 1841. 11, 1844. 3 R. M. March 25, 1843. 9 R. M. Aug. 5, 1848. 4 R. M. Aug., 1831. 10 Octog. 54. 5 R. M. July 20, 1835. J1 R. S. A. 71. 6 R. M. July 21, 1838. ia R. M. June 16. 1834. 7 R. M. Aug. 20, 1842. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 87 of f a new bathing-house, near the pound-keeper's lodge in King's meadow 5 . 1 (vii) Bowls, Archery, Cricket, Angling, and Gardening. Bowls were played on the well-known green at the Crown Inn. About 1831, archery became fashionable among people of posi- tion. 2 Cricket, already more than a century old, was played commonly, but without much science or organization. 3 It does not appear to have had a great vogue in Reading during this period, although in 1832 it is recorded that the Reading Cricket Club took a new ground c near the new road on the Crown land '.* An Anglers' Association was formed in 1822. 5 An 'annual melon and carnation feast ' is mentioned in 1826 ; 6 and the first show of the Reading Horticultural Society was held in 1834. 7 (viii) Assemblies, $c. In the winter season there were balls, assemblies, and coteries at the Town Hall, ( numerously attended as well by the higher classes resident in the town as by the nobility and gentry of the environs.' 8 Having regard to the darkness of the streets and roads, it was important to choose a night as near the full moon as possible. 9 Social lines were sharply drawn, and tradesmen did not attend these gatherings. 10 Humbler people met elsewhere, f in a workshop in Mill Lane ' for example, and danced till daybreak. 11 (ix) Curious Sights, tyc. The marvellous, in its many forms, provided entertainment from time to time. The credulous were attracted in 1814 by the ( Dioastrodoxon, or grand transparent orrery ' which had the merit ( of embracing every modern dis- covery ', in such a way as f to awaken devotional feelings ', when accompanied by ( a few notes on the celestina ', 12 The exhibi- tion of Napoleon's travelling carriage taken at Waterloo, 13 the young arithmetical prodigy from Devonshire, 14 the ( panorama of 1 R. M. June 24, 1843. 7 E. M. May 26, 1834. 2 Cp. V.C.H. ii. 311-12 ; R.M. 8 Stranger, 32. June 17, 1837. 9 Cp. R. M. Nov. 12, 1804. 3 Cp. Octog. 109 ; L'Estrange, i. 10 Cp. R. S. A. 58. 318-19. "R.S.A. 28. 4 R. M. May 7, 1832. 12 R. M. Jan. 31, 1814. 5 Cp. R. M. March 3, 1823. R. S. A. 55. 6 R. M. July 24, 1826. " R. S. A. 38-9. 88 READING DURING THE EARLY PART London exhibited in a marquee V the ( panorama (with motion) of the battle of the Nile V the ascent in the Forbury of e Madame de Irvine on the rope ', and the appearance of this lady l at an altitude of forty feet amongst foliage illuminated by Bengal lights V the skeleton of a whale e with nothing in the slightest degree offensive about it Y and the ' ninth ascent of Mr. Green in a balloon % 5 are examples of a kind of entertainment which seldom fails of popularity. (x) Public Rejoicings. The recreations of a community in- clude its public rejoicings, and in the early years of the nine- teenth century there was no lack of these in Reading. During the great war, victories of the British arms by sea and land were celebrated by the ringing of bells, hoisting of flags, feux dejoie by militia and volunteers in the Forbury, illuminations, fire- works, bonfires, cannon salutes, and processions. More elabo- rate ceremonies marked the Jubilee of George III in 1809, 6 the conclusion of peace in 1814, 7 the coronation of William IV in 183 1, 8 the passing of the Reform Act in 1832, 9 and the coronation of Queen Victoria in 1838. 10 The celebration of 1832 has already been described. In 1814 about 6,000 persons dined in the streets, and the sports in the Forbury included f donkey races, sack races, a pig hunt, gingling, grinning and smoking matches \ n In 1838 the chief feature of a varied programme was a feast given in the Market Place to 2,200 Sunday and Charity School children. 12 (xi) Walks and Prospects. Such occasions, however, were infrequent. Both the business and pleasure of the ordinary day proceeded quietly. It is probable that a source of enjoyment in- ferior to none that have been mentioned arose from the ease with which the inhabitants of a small and compact town could take their walks through fields and riverside meadows, and amid 1 Berks. Chron. April 14, 1827. 10 R. M. June 30, 1838. 2 R. M. April 13, 1801. R. M. July 18 and 25, Aug. 1, 8 R. M.June 10, 1833. 1814. 4 R. M.Dec. 22, 1834. I2 Many persons will be interested 5 R. M. July 28, 1823. to know that the tables on this 6 Octog. 18. occasion were decorated with 7 Octog. 67-8 ; R. S. A. 23-5. flowers by the firm of Button (R. M. 8 R. M. Sept. 12, 1831. June 30, 1838). 9 See pp. 66-7. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 89 pleasant rural scenes. Thegrounds of Whiteknights, for example, summer after summer for a long period, were eagerly visited by Reading people. Whiteknights was a seat of the Marquis of Blandford, afterwards Duke of Marlborough, and was ' a favour- ite resort of the Queen of George III V Here there were luxu- riant botanical gardens, containing many rare specimens of trees and shrubs, as well as vineyards and hot-houses. 2 Miss Mitford, who paid, her first visit to Whiteknights in 1807, was disappointed with it ; but she praised the azaleas, the American honeysuckles, and the f superb rhododendrons J . 3 About 1840, however, the estate changed hands, the mansion was pulled down, and the old privileges ceased. 4 Nearer at hand was the Forbury ; and from the rising ground there it was possible to enjoy a prospect endeared by its natural charm and long familiarity, and as yet unspoilt by the intrusion of railway em- bankments. ' The neat little village of Caversham ' to quote a description of 1831 ' is seen with its white-steepled church shaded by verdant woods ; and its mansion encircled and backed by timber of superior size. And there also the Thames is seen, from whose banks the ground naturally rises, clothed in all the luxuriance of nature. Westward are clumps of firs, whose sombre tints are relieved by the rich greens of the pasture lands beneath, which, joining the wide open valley called the King's Mead, spread eastward until checked by the junction of the Thames and Kennet. Beyond, Sonning and Shiplake hills terminate the scene/ 5 Social Characteristics. Details already given will have thrown some light upon the social characteristics of the period. A few notes may be added. Change was at work, but much that was traditional held its ground. Reading people still used the plural suffix -en, and spoke of housen. 6 The restoration of the mon- archy was still honoured by the hanging forth of oak branches upon May 29 ; 7 and peals were still rung to commemorate the Reading Skirmish of 1688, and the deliverance from Gunpowder Plot in 1605. The bell in St. Lawrence's tower tolled, according 1 R. M. Sept. 25, 1841. 3, 1844 ; I/Estrange, ii. 74-5. 2 Cp. R. M. May 28, 1827. 6 R.M. May 9, 1831. 3 I/Estrange, i. 66. 6 Stranger, 84. 4 Cp. R. M. Sept. 25, 1841 ; Aug. 7 R. S. A. 20. 90 READING DURING THE EARLY PART to ancient custom, at five in the morning, 1 and at nine in the evening it tolled the curfew. 2 We see notes of a vanished order in the garb of the street criers, 3 and in the powdered hair and queue, Hessian boots, and precise manners of a burgess of position, 4 just as in the sedan-chair and the coach and horn. Of the inner life and intimate customs of the greater part of any community in any age little is ever really known ; but as regards the ruling class in the Reading of the early nineteenth century two general indications may be given. Decorum was their favourite ideal, and respectable was their most valued epithet. Respectable is perhaps the most hardly worked word in their vocabulary. It is a word whose meaning shifts from age to age ; of the things which it meant then, perhaps, burly sense, solid integrity, and dislike of newfangledness counted for most. The energy with which the respectable expressed their opinions and alarms may provoke a smile sometimes, as, for example, their condemnation of Tom Paine as l infamous 3 and his works as ' diabolical ' ; 5 their description of Napoleon as ' the most blasphemous beast that ever cursed the earth ' ; 6 their violent hostility to trade unions ; 7 their view of socialism as c a revolt- ing and insane theory ', ( a disgusting tissue of absurdity ' ; 8 their startled suspicion when a lady for the first time in Read- ing presumed to address a public audience, and their avowed relief when it appeared that her style of speaking was innocent f of the slightest approach to masculine assumption '. 9 Never- theless, those who have come most closely into contact with the social history of the time will be slow to depreciate the capacity or the merit of this sturdy class. The f respectable ' were of that minority who could make their words good, who stood firmly by the settled order, who scrutinized innovation before they accepted it, whose public spirit could be trusted. These men were the backbone of England in her greatest war, and it was their final adherence to reform that made reform at once irresistible and moderate. The age was not squeamish, as the record of its brutal 1 Cp. R.M. Dec. 24, 1841. 6 R. M. April 11, 1814. 2 Cp. R.M. June 8, 1850 ; C. 80. 7 R.M. April 7, 1834. 8 See illustrations in Stranger. 8 R. M. April 11, 1840. 4 Cp. Allon, 166 ; Octog. 54. 9 R. M. Feb. 25, 1843 ; Nov. 30, 6 R. M. March 5, 1821. 1844. OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 91 punishments and sports shows. But public opinion was gradually becoming sensitive not only to miseries which had long gone unredressed, but also to shortcomings in social habits. No public event was allowed to pass without its dinner ' numerously and respectably attended ' at an inn. The hard drinking which marked the age found here one of its many opportunities. Yet not only does the temperance movement date from this period, but by degrees men began to put them- selves on their guard against excess. 1 Brutal standards were still common, but people began to flinch from the cruelty of using dogs as beasts of burden, 2 and little boys as climbers and cleaners of chimneys. 3 The founding of the Dispensary and the Hospital, of the Philanthropic Institution in 1822, 4 and of a branch of the Animals' Friend Society in 1844 6 are merely instances, among many which might be quoted, of the growth of humanitarian and kindly sentiment. In this respect, indeed, as in almost every other, whether social or intellectual, an essential change had effected itself before the century had run half its course. It is about the years 1843 and 1844 that the records of local life impress the student with the sense of an old order of ideas and practice being submerged by the rising tide of innovation. Concluding Remarks. f History, while it should be scientific in its method, should pursue a practical object. . . . Some large conclusion ought to arise out of it 5 . 6 Does the analytical study of the town of Reading during the early part of the nine- teenth century suggest, or warrant, any ' large conclusion ' ? Comparing the community of that date with the same com- munity a century later, it is of course impossible not to be impressed by the contrast in material circumstances. The growth of population eightfold, the corresponding expansion of the area of occupation, the striking change in economic conditions expressed in the transformation of a small country town into a large industrial centre, the revolution in means 1 Cp. e.g. Octog. 199-201; 4, 1840 ; Feb. 3, 1844. L'Estrange, i. 335-6 ; R. S. A. 11. 4 Cp. R. M. June 30, 1823. a Cp. R. M. Sept. 1, 1838 ; May 6 R. M. June 15, 1844. 2, 1840 ; Dec. 8, 1849. 6 Seeley, Expansion of Eng- 3 Cp. R. M. March 3, 1838 ; Jan. land, 1. 92 READING DURING THE EARLY PART of locomotion and communication, the vastly wider range of organized public action in the interests of the community are chief among the points of contrast which naturally occur to the mind with fresh force and illustration after reviewing the conditions of a century ago. The causes and processes which have thus transformed the life of Reading in common with the life of the rest of the country cannot be comprehended, or explained, by any formula. The belief that a scrutiny of their operation would be in- structive, when traced within narrow and familiar limits, was the motive for writing this essay. The period under review is the period in which signs of change, proceeding from profound movements of thought in politics, in religion, in science, and indeed in every department of ideas, can no longer be con- cealed ; and yet it is also the period in which English life as a whole still keeps its traditional character. Perhaps the best index to the changes which then began and have since travelled so far is the word complexity. Upon reflection it will appear that we have been tracing the development of a community which, while clinging tenaciously to custom, year by year is becoming conscious of new needs, new obligations, new opportunities. New organs are continually being evolved to perform functions which have become necessary or desirable. The simple organization which with little change had for ages sufficed for the government of Reading and for the needs of her inhabitants is slowly and painfully remodelled, and is extended and developed on almost every side. And this greater com- plexity of corporate organization, this unresting effort of the community to devise powers adequate to new tasks, is merely the reflection and the outcome of a more complex individual consciousness, and a more energetic and informed individual aspiration. The preceding narrative may enable us, in some measure, to form an idea of the extent of the change which has taken place in social organization and standards. There may perhaps be a disposition to look back across the interval of time with a certain sense of present superiority. It is, indeed, undeniable that the general outcome of social development has been to promote the common good. Life is cleaner, healthier, and happier than it OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY 93 was a century ago. Nevertheless, the study of the early part of the nineteenth century should surely heighten our respect for it. Our respect is due not simply because those who lived then lived through experiences in war and in peace more stirring and arduous than any which we ourselves have known, but rather because in fecundity of ideas and constructive power that age has been equalled by none that have succeeded it. The case of Reading may be quoted in illustration. It may fairly be said that the foundations of the Reading of to-day were then laid. It was then that municipal government was reformed. Then arose the Hospital, the Dispensary, and the Savings Bank. To those years we trace the origins of the great industries in seeds and biscuits. Then occurred the great revival in religion, and the first public efforts to promote temperance. The early closing movement, which is so closely connected with the interests of the business community, dates from 1835. 1 The first elementary schools were then established, and the first public libraries formed. It would not be difficult to show that the University College, founded in 1892, traces one line of ancestry, in ideas at least, through the science and art classes instituted in 1860, to the Mechanics' Institution dating from 1827 and 1840. To the same early period belong the intro- duction of effective police, and the first attempts to deal with lighting, water supply, and sanitation upon scientific principles. The poor laws were reformed in 1834, and though pauperism in Reading has long been relieved of its grosser evils, yet it cannot be said that later generations with their greater knowledge and experience have disposed of the problem. We shall be justified in concluding that during the early part of the nineteenth century ideas and forces were generated which not only gave a memorable impetus to social development, but determined the lines upon which that development still proceeds. 1 R. M. Nov. 2, 1835. INDEX Administration of . Justice, see Justice. Area of Occupation, 10-11. Aspect of the Town, 13-14. Banks, 25-6. Buildings, 12-13. Character of Streets, 11-12. Communications, 14-17. Barge traffic, 15-16. Coaches, 16-17. Kennet and Avon Canal, 14-16. London and Bristol Road, 16-17. Southampton Road, 17. Thames, 14. Concluding Remarks, 91-3. Condition of Poor, see Poor. Fairs, 27-8. Fire Engines, 35. Government, Local, see Local. Great Western Railway, 19-21. Industry and Trade, see Trade. Intellectual Life, 67-78. Athenaeum, 74. Blue Coat School, 68. Book Club, 73. Elementary Schools, 67-8. Green Girls' School, 69. Literary Culture, 77-8. Mechanics' Institution, 74-5. Medical Societies, 75. Music, 76-7. Permanent Library and Lit- erary Institution, 73. Philosophical Institution, 73-4. Private Schools, 69. Reading School, 69-73. School of Industry, 69. Theatre, 75-6. Valpy, Dr., 70-2. Justice, Administration of, 41-8 Courts, 41-2. Crime, 45-8. Police, 45. Prisons, 42-5. Punishments, 46-7. Riots (agricultural), 47-8. Local Government, 28-33. Corporation, 28-31. Paving Commissioners, 31-3. Paving, 31. Lighting, 32-3. Locomotion, Steam, 18-19. London and South Western Rail- way, 21. Markets, 26-7. Occupation, Area of, 10-11. Politics of the Period, 59-67. Elections, 59-62. Franchise, 59. Processions, 61-2. Reform of Parliament, 62-7. Reform Act, 65-6. ,, Celebration, 66-7. Taxation, 64. Poor, Condition of, 78-83. Distress, 79-80. Pauperism, 81-3. Poor-houses, 82-3. Poor Law reform, 83. Poor relief, cost of, 81-3. Prices, 78-9. Population, Statistics of, 9. Post, 17-18. Railway, Great Western, 19-21. London and South Western, 21. Reading and the Great War, see War. 96 INDEX Recreations, 84-9. Angling, 87. Archery, 87. Assemblies, &c., 87. Bathing, 86-7. Boating, 85-6. Bowls, 87. Bull-baiting, 84. Cricket, 87. Curious sights, 87-8. Gardening, 87. Mayings, 84-5. Prize-fights, 84. Races, 85. Rejoicings, 88. Revels, 84-5. Rowing, 85-6. Walks, 88-9. Religious Characteristics, 48-56. Cadogan, W. B., 49-50. Characteristics of period, 51-2, 55-6. Church ascendency, 52-3. extension, 50-1. Nonconformity, 53-4. Propagandist institutions,54-5. Sanitation, 35-9. Churchyards and Cemetery, 35-6. Drainage, &c., 36-7. Fevers, 37. Inquiries, 38. Mortality, 38. Public Health Act, 39. Sick and Injured, Care of the, 39-41. Dispensary, 39. Eye Infirmary, 39-40. Hospital, 40-1. Social Characteristics, 89-91. Steam Locomotion, 18-19. Streets, Character of, 11-12. Tokens, 25. Town, Aspect of, 13-14. Trade and Industry, 21-5. Barge-building, 24. Biscuits, 24. Coach-building, 24. Breweries, 23. Bricks, 24. Guns, 24. Iron-works, 24. Oracle, 21-3. Pins, 22. Printing, 24. Sailcloth, 22, 23. Sauce, 23. Seeds, 24. Silk, 22, 23. Tanning, 24. Weaving, &c., 22, 23. War, Reading and the, 56-9. Wards of the Borough, 9-10. Water Supply, 33-4. This book is DUE on the last date stamped below MAY 4 .J961 Form L-9-15i-7,'32 DA 690 R28C4 town of Reading b part of the nine- teenth century. e~ early A r\ <\ ''' ' I' !! UNIVERSITY of CALIFORNIA