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[January] 9th Attended the funeral of B Sandford, about 70 persons present.
[January] 9th At Preston - Dowager Lady Feilden Died in her 90th Year - And Sam Hibbert aged 64 years.
[January] 13th Died after a severe and painful Illness Joseph Feilding, White Bull Hotel aged 48 years, His end was peace. - [January] 14th Awfully sudden Mr Critchley Bacon Factor -
[January] 17th We buried at Immanuel Ch: Oswaldtwistle Mr Joseph Feilding, a Worthy Man - In the Evening I went to the St John's of Clayton-le-Dale with a large Compy of Brethren - The Evening was spent in a rational Manner and we arrived home at 11 pm. The excitement of the day had the effect of making me very sick in the night-time & kept in from work -
Continued hard frost up to the 21st [January] A Dreadful accident at London on the Ice more than 40 persons drowned at Regents Park (15th Jan.) A thaw set in on the 23rd [January] and in a few days all signs of the severe frost had disappeared -
Feb 2 Law. Charnley Died aged 58. - 6th [February] at Manchester - nasty day - The Houses of Parliament, met and the Queen's Speech delivered to the great satisfaction of all reasonable people. - 17th [February] Richard 24th Birthday - all well thank God. - Night fall of snow.
J B. S Sturdy Died at a private Asylum aged 58 Years. Sturdy was a J.P. and an Ex Mayor of the Town. He was supposed to be the natural Son of the late James Barlow, Esq. Surgeon &c There was a public funeral on the 15th [February] About 100 Gent & fifteen Carriages. He was buried at the Parish Church.
[February] 15th Died Mr Thos Brennand - a worthy Townsman aged 69. He was actuary at the Savings Bank -
Mr W Wood late Bookseller succeeded him.
March 1 Clear, bright and frosty - with East Winds. A Continuance of the same up to the 12th [March] excessively cold - Fells covered with Snow but not a heavy downfall.
March 11th Died The Rev Canon Irving Rom Cath Priest of St Alban's Died - Interred at Cemetery.
[March] 14th Annual Meeting of the Over Darwen Gas Company 7/- per Cent declared - a satisfactory Meeting.
[March] 18th The Wind still Easterly and extremely cold. Large Falls of Snow in many places. - Towards Evening there was a heavy Snow Storm -
Mem. We have now at the Parish Church Rev J Taylor and the Rev R Mayall - both excellent Men and good preachers.
[March] 21st Died early this Morning James Forrest the Father in law of my Son Thomas - after a very short time. He has left Seven children all Orphans. There can be little doubt but heavy losses The death of his Wife weighed heavily upon him - I hope some providential arrangement will be made for his children.
[March] 22nd Heavy fall of Snow exceedingly Wintry Weather ending in a complete Thaw.
[March] 19th Attended the Quarterly Meeting of the Burial Society and carried a Resolution for a Donation of £50 and an Annual Subscription of £10.0.0 towards the support of the Bn Infirmary -
[March] 24th Sunday At the Parish Church - the Revd J Taylor improved the death of James Forrest in an eloquent from Lamentations c. 1 - v. 12th.
April 1. The end of March tho' not very dry was more favourable to vegetation and the last day was very fine & genial.
[April] 2nd Died James Callis, aged 49 at Ashton under Lyne leaving a Widow and five children, I attended the funeral on the sixth and was deeply affected by the sorrow & bereavement of his poor Widow & fatherless children.
What I can do among others, will be cheerfully rendered to help them.
On the 4th [April] Died, after a very long and painful disease, Mr William Eaves, the Secretary of the Blackburn Philanthropic Burial Society & the Assurance Society -
April 14th Sunday The Third Anniversary since the operation for the Stone - for which deliverance I thank Almighty God. -
Within the last Week my shop has been like a livery being visited by the Vicar, Mayor, Clergymen, Aldermen, Councillors & others to consult on private & public business. –
[April] 19th Good Friday. Attended with family the Parish Church at Communion Morning, a good sermon from Dr Rushton. Afternoon went to Mytham but it came on rain in the Evening - This Day died at Blackpool my much respected Medical Man, Thos Pickop, Esq Aged 32. - His loss will be seriously felt both by his family & the public to whom he was a devoted & skilful servant.
David Kearton, Manfer Livesey died.
Easter Day ([April] 21) At Parish Morning the Rev R Mayall - He is not here - he is risen - A good practical Sermon.
([April] 20) Day before the Bishop held a Confirmation, there were nearly 1100 candidates
[April] 23. Jacob Duckworth foreman of the Lamp Lighters Died aged 62. - Anniversary of Female Friendly Society - Attended the Funeral of Mr Thos Pickop Surgeon - to whom, under Gods Providence, I owe my life.
May 12. Died Thos Livesey Junr Son of Mr Livesey Sexton (aged 43 Years) - A bad undutiful Son - Poor Tom Jackson, Barber who died about the same date - an old & early School Mate. -
The business fair - but money scarce. The weather of June genial spring - alternated with cold East Winds - with rain, hail or snow - The night of the 20th [May] dreadful storm destroying much bloom & new Potatoes.
[May] 23rd Prov Grand Conclave of Knight Templars held in this Town. -
[May] 16th Presentation of Purse - 100 Guineas - and Silk Gown to the Rev James Taylor, Curate of P. Church I acted as Chairman of the Committee
After a variable May - wherein were some fierce cold Days - the Weather became more genial and though much rain fell - it settled about the 7th of June and we had one of the most magnificent Whitsuntides that I ever remember - The Railway did an enormous traffic on the 8th, 9th, 10th & 11th and also throughout the Week. It was computed there were not fewer than 40,000 Tickets used on Whitmonday the 10th of June.
[June] 6th Broadbent & Tiplady Dissolved partnership
[June] 15th Died John Taylor, Esq Morton Hall, aged 64
Also W. D. Coddington, Esq, aged 68 formerly an Alderman of this Borough - Buried St John's We acted per Auditors together - 1st Year of the Corporation
Work slack Money scarce, spirits depressed, wealth Moderate.
£15 from John Baynes Esq - F. F [Female Friendly] Society.
[June] 23rd to 26th Magnificent Summer Weather - passed my 59th Year on Sunday when all children at Home Dined with me; - Thos at Liverpool has now six children -
July 4th Letter from Richard, going to stop 3 years longer, and to be married - £500 per year
[July] 15th The Reform Bill read a third time - in the H of Commons. -
[July] 22nd Burial Board Meeting - stormy - Gregson very insulting - Lost all his Motions - My Son appointed Auditor -
Aug 6. My Eldest Daughter this day attained her majority, on occasion of which happy Event her Brothers Sister and friends enjoyed a Picnic at Whittle Springs. The day was delightfully fine, and all spent a very pleasant day.
[August] 8th Thursday, The Mayor Annual Fishing Excursion took place this Day when upwards of seventy of his Friends accompanied him Fleetwood, and embarked on the fine Steamer the Wyre, a very pleasant day was spent but there was too heavy a swell for fishing
Aug 15 Reform Bill passed.
Aug 15th My 28th Wedding Day - Left home with Mrs Tiplady to Lancaster and thence to Hest Bank, where lodged for 2 nights - a nice quite [sic] place within 3 Minutes walk of the Railway. - 16th [August] To Morecambe and selected Lodgings with Mrs Heathcote 17th [August] Saty to Lancaster Market very wet day all through - 18th [August] to Poulton Church, - Friday visited Carnforth Afternoon to Heysham (18) 19th [August] to Windermere Morning very wet - sailed up the Lake to Ambleside and back to Morecambe - Eveng very fine 20th [August] At Morecambe - 21st [August] Wedy sailed to Grange - a most beautiful place on the opposite side of the Bay. 22nd [August] To Caton & Hornby by Rails very fine day - Walked by Halton to Lancaster - Friday rested all day - walked in the Eveng to Hest Bank - 24th [August] Sailed to Blackpool & spent the Afternoon there from there to Lytham, where we slept at Mrs Harwood - Sunday (25) [August] Lytham old Church, - Monday Home again, all well.
Sep 3rd - Heavy and unusual Thunder Storm for Sep - Fine up till now
[September] 2nd Telegram Boy, maimed at Daisy Field Station. Leg amputated. -
Weather changeable nevertheless Harvest well secured in the South and Midland. -
[September] 12th Thursday, the Brethren of Lodge 345 presented me with a most beautiful & costly PMs Jewell for my humble Services on the Charity Committee & as Treasurer of the Lodge, a Gift certainly magnificent & I think far beyond my deserts. P.M. Hutchinson presented it on behalf of the Lodge in a very elaborate and eloquent address
[September] 18th paid Sister Margaret £22:0: towards my Debt
Sep 23rd To Day a special Meeting of the Subscribers to the District Committee SPCK was held to receive resignation of the President & Treasurer and to wind up the affairs of the District Committee
1st The resignation accepted.
2nd The Dissolution resolved upon
3rd Mr Tiplady to pay £25:0:0 for the Bibles Testament & Prayer Books.
4th The remainder of the Books to be distributed among the Churches in the Town, also the surplus Cash
5th The following Gents to form Committee for the Division of the Cash & Books
| Attg | Rev C. W. Woodhouse |
| " J. Barker | |
| " R. Mayall | |
| " H. Wescoe | |
| " D. Robinson. |
6th £10 to be given to the Parent Society -
7th Thanks were voted to the Archdeacon
8th Thanks were also voted to the Agent.
Thus ended my 35th Year of Agency with the Society
Tuesday Afn at Worsthon - No Nuts
Thursday at Preston Mr Beard.
Friday at Over Darwen Board Meeting - Evg Mutual Assurance
Sunday Morn at St Paul's eloquent Sermon from Mr Marychurch Lam. III 41. Eveng Trinity Rev E Eager Sermon on the false Repentance of Esau - read a portion of Lord Clive Life by Macauley.
[September] 30th Councillor Robt Porter Died, a very worthy and respectable Burgess.
Oct 19. Died suddenly, Mrs Glazebrook, wife of the Rev I. K Glazebrook, Lower Darwen -
[October] 21. Richard Crankshaw, esq J.P. aged 46, a very worthy & respectable Man -
John Balshaw, formerly Bell Man, aged 55
James Riding, formerly Innkeeper, and Driver of the Coach to Manchester - aged 55. He also kept the Bay Horse and Castle Inn. -
Died also about the 23rd [October] Mr Thomas Bentley formerly Schoolmaster of the National School, and also for several years Churchwarden of the Parish Church, a venerable and worthy old Townsman & highly respected aged 81 years.
[October] 27th Died John Aspden, Plasterer, I suppose one of the "oldest Inhabitants" aged 88.
Novr 1. Municipal Election - Nine Liberals and Three Conservatives returned to the Town Council
A very severe contest in St Mary's Ward - polling as under.
| Constantine | Liberal | 216 |
| Ellston, | Con | 210 |
| Hartley | Con | 207 |
| Henry | Lib | 201 |
It is to be noted that both parties polled an equal number of votes 217 - Total 434 - on the List - 461. unpolled and dead 27 persons only.
[November] 7th To Manchester, Prov Grand Meeting at Hulme - not much business - A Motion of condolence moved to the Widow of the late Law. Newell DPGM who died on the 1st deeply lamented - Bro. Radcliffe, Robinson & Redmanye also present. Also Dr Stocks who died shortly afterwards - aged 75 years. – 9 [November]/ Smith, Mayor.
[November] 17th At St John's - Mr Hield, Bay Horse, to Mrs Lydia Houlker, Widow of James Houlker, - Married
[November] 23rd Allen, Larkin & Gould, the three Fenians concerned in the Murder of Sergeant Brett were this Day hung at the Old Bailey prison, Salford, Manchester, - All passed off peaceably - M'Guire had been pardoned & Shore respited during the Queen's pleasure. The day was very foggy - a row was expected.
Nov 28th Died, aged 75 years Dr Stock Surgeon a most respectable & valuable Member of Society - He was a Br of the Craft.
[November] 29th Over Darwen Gas Meeting -
The Town was much scandalised by the delinquencies of Mr David Nicol of the District Bank who was arrested for Forgery on Tuesday Evening - He was the Manager of the Bank, had a handsome salary of £600 per annum, but by dabbling in Cotton lost all his Money, and in order to redeem his losses - made bad worse by resorting to fraud. -
The Month of Decr was rough and winterly yet not much Frost. There was no particular occurrence transpired in the Town, except that a large number of Special Constables were sworn in to put down any attempt at Riot by the Fenians.
On the 31st [December] Died Henry Haworth Esq. Solicitor aged 75 Years - One thing remarkable about him was that he possessed a very large amount of poor Cottage Property. The year ended peacefully. Blessed be the Almighty for all his Mercies. –
27th [December] St John's Held very throng 82 sat down -
1867.pdf
1867 pdf includes the text above and footnotes by David Hughes
1868
The Year commenced calm, and rather cold. An immense quantity of Game & Meat were exhibited for sale, and upon the whole I think a very fair average happy New Year's Day was enjoyed.
[January] 4th Died very suddenly Mr Robt Riley, partner of W. H Hornby, Esq, Brookouse Mills, a very worthy and upright young Man and one in whom Mr Hornby placed great confidence.
About the same time Chrisr Tattersall Councillor & James Bell, solicitor
[January] 9th The remains of Robt Riley were conveyed to the Cemetery on which occasion the Workpeople of Blackburn formed a funeral procession, about 800 Male & Female being present - He was very highly respected.
[January] 10th Attended the funeral of C. Tattersall, about 22 Masons present.
[January] 16th Wednesday Letter from Richard - 15 Days late by reason of an accident to the Mail Steamer - Richard married Nov 7th 1867 to Miss Annie Clement of Bahia - She died in 2 or 3 years afterwards –
[January] 17 Thursday Friday - The Melancholy intelligence of Dr Robinson's death of Holy Trinity was communicated to us. - In him the Ch of England has lost one of its most staunch supporters. He was a rigid opponent to Popery. A very sincere Friend to me - I hope the Doctor is taken to his reward.
The above was contraindicated, The Doctor was better.
About this time also died in the prime of Manhood Roger Forrest - after I fear a dissolute Life - Robert Pemberton, Angel Inn, - Peter R Parkinson, Pawnbroker
Monday, Jan 20. Died at the residence of Wm. Pilkington Esq., The Grange, John Sparrow Esq. JP. a Gentleman long connected with the Town's affairs - a Roman Catholic and extreme liberal in Politics, but a high minded and Gentlemanly Man.
[January] 24 John Bank's, aged 65, 26 Robt Hubbestey Innkeeper, 28. William Newsham, of cancer in the face, painful illness & death. -
Mrs Bailey aged 77 years Widow of Dr Bailey.
Weather very dismal - Our Trade brisk especially work of all kinds -
Feb. was ushered in with a strong storm of Wind & Rain which did much damage to House Property - On this day died Mrs James Hilton, a very worthy Lady and one of my earliest acquaintances -
On the 5th [February] we had Letter from Son Richard informing us of his Marriage &c, he is well -
[February] 9th Sunday, My dear Wife had a paralytic stroke affecting the whole of the left side - but not so violent as to deprive her of speech. She had some time ago a very severe attack of Bronchitis. Of course we are all deeply affected under this Disperation [sic] - but our Faith in God who ordereth all things aright
[February] 13th My Wife is no worse, but is quite powerless on her left side - Her spirits are much depressed.
It is singular but true, the 9th of Feby has been a very ominous day in my life - or say from 8 to 10.
Lance[?] Day. Intelligence of the death of the Rev G Preston B.D. formerly Minister of Whalley Free Grammar Schools, week since. He was indeed a good Man, and useful in his day & generation - His age about 68 or 69 years. A most excellent and upright free mason.
[February] 15th Died the Rev D DeBoudrey Incumbent at Salesbury - The Rev D Rushton is also very ill indeed (Aged 82)
[February] 18th Attended the funeral at Whalley of my great and true friend the Rev G Preston, The number present was small and the funeral strictly private. The Vicar of Whalley performed the Service.
[February] 21st Friday 3 p.m. Death has added one more victim to the long list inserted in this Book. The Rev Dr Wm Rushton, vicar, expired this day after a brief illness of 14 days - On the 8th he paid me a visit with his oldest Daughter, was taken poorly very shortly after and lingered on until this Afternoon - He was in his 70th year of his Age. Though Dr Rushton did not at first take to me, our acquaintance improved with time, and he was a sincere friend and often called at the shop, and in fact was very intimate & cordial.
[February] 27th Funeral of the Vicar. The Clergy, principal Inhabitants & Boys of the Grammar School assembled at the parish Church and formed a Procession headed by the Police to accompany the corpse of the late Revd Dr Rushton, who was buried at Walton-le-Dale. I attended and went forward to Walton-le-Dale. Funeral Service by Revd the [sic] J C Kershaw, vicar
March 7th Went down to Lytham to see my Wife whom I found better, and able to walk - The Weather at times very boisterous and Tides high - Left Lytham on the 11th and to Over Darwen Gas Meeting on the following day. A very quiet and comfortable Annual Meeting Dividend 7/- per cent.
March 21. Again at Lytham - Mrs Tiplady better thank God. - Weather wild & rough high Tide - home on Tuesday - William laid up by the Quincy -
March 27. Mr John Johnston, a Scotch Draper well to do and highly respected hung himself in his own office -
[March] 28th Third time to Lytham to fetch home my Wife who is much better - John Brierley formerly of this Town was found drowned at Lytham on the Morning of Sunday March 29th. I saw him the evening before - He was under the influence of Liquor and am afraid had led a disorderly Life -
Mr John Heptonstall an old Neighbour died aged 67.
April 8 Died John Salisbury Auctioneer, aged a man of more than average ability, but I fear injured himself by intemperate habits - He had a brilliant opportunity to have distinguished himself as his connection was good & extensive
The Revd Edward Birch, Canon of Manchester succeeded the Rev John Rushton as vicar of this parish He read himself in on the 5th Day of April - 1868; - and preached the same night
May 1st. A great domestic scandal was this day exposed in the Town hall, in a case of affiliation between Councillor Beaty & Elizabeth SharplesThe case was proved - 5/- a week & 2/6 for 13 years She was a Teacher in the Schools - She died shortly after - and his Character was blasted for ever. -
[May] 5th At Manchester; Charity Committee obtained for Widow Pearson the sum of Ten Pounds in Instalments.
[May] 14th Very fine - down to Sawley - had Tea there with Mrs Tiplady, and Daughters, also Miss Briggs of Spalding - Ths Baldwin was there, and very graciously gave us a Ride from & to Chadburn [Chatburn].
[May] 15th Br J Pilkington PM was this Day interred with Masonic Honours at Great Harwood Church, aged 72.
[May] 16th To Accrington - Grand Procession, laying of Corner Stone Market House.
May 27th Died John Witherington, Esq, Surgeon - a young Man of great promise & abilities, - very learned in chemical Sciences, horticultural pursuits - A famous Lecturer on Microscopic subjects - He was a man greatly esteemed by all Classes - For several years he held the appointment of Medical Officer to the Volunteer Corps of this Town
Note - respecting the Weather of this Month - it must noted that it was exceedingly fine & the spring forward Oaks were nearly in full Leaf on the 29 - There was a very large show of May Bloom, Longer than was known for many years -
Whit Saturday - Down at Mr Duckworth's Farm which was very nice. We had a fishing Job and did very well May 30th 1868
On Whit Monday which was the first Day of June. - myself, Wife, Essie, Fanny, Harry & Miss Briggs went on a Cheap Trip to Windermere - The weather was delightfully fine and hot We sailed up the Lake to Ambleside, and had a ride all round Grass Mere Lake - Saw the Grave of Wm Wordsworth. - The Scenery was exceedingly grand & sublime - We arrived home at 9-30 all weak except Polly who was very sick -
June 14. Sunday Mr Birch the vicar preached a very excellent Sermon in the Morning "If our Gospel be hid, it is hid to those who are lost". In the Afternoon, to Bamber Bridge - Mr Lee of Preston preached an elegant discourse, "Add to your faith & virtue, and to your Virtue, knowledge" Took Tea with my Daughter Fanny and a large Company at the parsonage House, and heard Mr Taylor in the Evening "Inasmuch as ye did it to one of the least of these my Brethren, ye did it unto me" The Congregations were large and a Liberal collection of £90-2-6 was obtained. Mr Ellis Nuttall drove me home in in his Phaeton. -
Grand Masonic Festival, Lancaster
`Wednesday June 17 1868
Visited Lancaster and attended the special Grand Lodge under the Earl of Zetland on laying the foundation Stone of the Royal Albert Asylum for Idiots & Imbeciles There was a large assembly of the Brethren - some say nearly 1500 in Procession, including the GM Marquis of Hartington, Lord de Tabley, Lord Kenlis, The High Sherriff - L G Starkie & many others. - The day was very fine and a great concourse of people attended. - In the Evening I visited Hest Bank & stayed all Night there - A very pleasant journey - From our Lodge these attended E. Eastwood, W M, John Rigby J. W. - D Turner S. D. Wm Hurst J. W. R. Duckworth J. G. - Rd Radcliffe I M Thos Bertwistle P. M. Charles Tiplady, P. M. Geo Duerden, - John Procter, - Henry Duckworth, W Ainsworth, Denis Baron, John Forrest.
Lodge 345 Sourbutts PM Carr, - Smalley PM Sharples PM Armistead, Jno Thompson, 269 John Clough, Clarkson, Townley, Gillibrand, Spurr.
In all about 26 from the 3 Lodges.
Weather Magnificent all thro' June
[June] 20th Sudden Thunder Storm at Blackburn also on the following Day.
[June] 15 or 16 Died Alexr Pateson, Cotton Manufacturer.
June 23. (Tuesday) My Sixtieth Birthday Truly the shadows of Evening are falling fast around me. -
Time like an ever rolling stream
Bears all its sons away
They fly forgotten as a Dream
Dies at the opening Day.
So teach us to number our days that we may apply our hearts unto Wisdom. - Thanks be to God for all his sparing Mercies. Amen.
A Toothpick from my Daughters & Polly Briggs, our Guest, a pocket handkerchief from Lissie - my Daughter in Law, a most excellent Woman.
Died John Priestley of Accrington, a F Mason with whom I was well acquainted, aged 57. He was in my Shop a few days prior to his Death.
[June] 25th This day died Seth Harwood aged 84 years. He was for many years the Overseer of Over Darwen, and very highly respected.
[June] 26 Darwen Gas Meeting 40 present.
I learned from Mr Cartwright that Mrs Forshaw died about the 11 or 12 of June, she was formerly Mrs Kenworthy and after his death married a Schoolmaster. I understand she had taken sadly to drinking. She left two daughters - by Mr K and 1 by Forshaw - the former well, and the latter badly provided for
[June] 25th Died Mr Alfred Brooks son of Mr Brooks Draper, very young - He had been to Madeira for his health, Mr B. has suffered severe domestic losses these several years - This is the 3rd son.
Sunday 28 [June]. Attended the parish Ch: Morning Sermon by the Vicar "For even Christ pleased not himself" - The discourse was an Homily against Self in every form and degree "The Christian Disciple must imitate his Divine Master by a perfect abnegation of Self, - evidenced by a life of usefulness to his fellow man. The vicar has not a pleasant voice, especially in the higher notes - but this defect is fully compensated by an earnest & emphatic delivery and a strict adherence to sound gospel doctrines.
Evening Trinity Rev W Webb on "Christ has abolished Death" Ye Ephesians - An eloquent discourse showing death to be unnatural & the Wages of Sin. Mr W. quoted Longfellow's Poem & also Dr Watts. His manner reminds one of listening to a person of disappointed expectations, somewhat hard but very faithful - The singing beautiful.
The Weather throughout the Entire of June has been magnificent & glorious - but the Farmers complain of Drought.
July 7th Tuesday Went on the Chorley Line with a number of Gentleman; very fine Day.
[July] 10th To Padiham on business with Mrs T and Polly Briggs, very fine, Wind E very dry.
[July] 8th Died Mr Hy Molyneux aged 48 years - He formerly lived in Blackburn.
[July] 27 Excessively hot. The 21st was considered to be the hottest day ever known in England. Therr [Thermometer] 101 in the Shade, 128 in the Sun - No rain all dried up & parched - Cholera cases prevalent.
My family have been afflicted with sickness particularly Fanny who had a narrow escape from death.
Augt 2nd The hottest day that I ever remember - Fanny better.
Aug 6 & 7 The Drought ended - with fine showers and in some places heavy thunder. Immense tracts of Ground & Timber burnt by the extreme heat.
Great preparations for the Coming elections Mr Maden Holt & Mr Starkie for North East Lancashire.
Aug 10th Died James Brooks, President of the Widow & Orphan's Society after a very short illness and on the 12th J Moses Pemberton of Brookhouse Mills, a very old Servant of Mr Hornby. - Truly we do fade away like the Grass, our each succeeding paragraph adds only to the long long list of of [sic] those departed from this scene of care and great troubles here on earth.
My family improved in health, Thank God.
[August] 16th Attended Great Harwood Sermons - Very throng and very hot. - Essie with me
[August] 18th Mother, Essie & Fanny to Southport.
[August] 20. There occurred on of the most dreadful accident by Railway and Fire that has ever happened in this Country - It was on the Rails from Chester to Holyhead. Some luggage Truck containing petroleum got detached and were run into by the Mail Train and a Dreadful collision transpired by which 26 persons were killed or burnt. Among these were Mr W B Parkinson & his Brother & Sons of C Parkinson Esq. and also their Brother-in-Law Mr W T Lund the mournful Event has been most painfully felt by all Classes in this Town.
The above occurrence is fully confirmed and all the Newspapers are filled with horrible details - It is by far the most appaling [sic] catastrophe ever known in Railway Accident - The bodies were all burnt to a cinder & worse.
Sep 10 My Son William Callis married at Holy Trinity Church, by the Rev Mr Bannister. After the ceremony we had Breakfast and then a Drive around Stonyhurst. It was very fine - to Miss Isabella Towers -
[September] 19th Died Mrs Geo. Ainsworth, late Miss Cort aged 45 years also Saml Wardle, Royal Oak Inn, - aged 48
Oct 10th Great Liberal Demonstration & Procession for Gerald Potter, M J Feilden, K Shuttleworth & Mr Fenton, about 4000 in the ranks -
[October] 24th Great Tory Demonstration & Procession large numbers of Horsemen, Carriages & Banners between 5 & 6000 in ranks for W. H Hornby, Jos Feilden, - Messrs Starkie & Holt.
I was present at the inauguration of the Widow & Orphan's Fund at Over Darwen this Night (24)
Nov 2nd Monday, Great Municipal Election, all the Wards contested - Con won in four Wards and lost in 2.
The following is the Poll for St Mary's –
| H. Duckworth (C) | 253 |
| G. P Hartley (C) | 250 |
| Henry (L) | 223 |
| Beads (L) | 219 |
One Man, Patrick Gallaher died from the effects of a wound received at this Election, a second died on the 5th and many were very severely wounded. -
The Irishman was buried (Nov 8) about 700 walked on the procession with Green favors
The above Election was followed by the Parliamentary one
| W. H Hornby | 4980 |
| Jos Feilden | 4890 |
| J. G Potter | 4407 |
| M J Feilden | 4183 |
The Election was orderly except by the Irish
[November] 19th Died William Durham, a particularly original character - and as changeable in his opinions as a chemelion [chameleon] in colour. In his Youth he was a teacher in Grimshaw Park and one of the very few left who were my colleague. -
Had no good reputation, T. Tiplady
{Proved to be in his later years a vile traducer of character & virtue I nearly thrashed him
in Public for a gross insult to my Mother's memory}
T. Tiplady
[November] 20th Died John Rayner, Keeper of the Con News Room.
[November] 21st The first great County Election for the North Eastern Division of Lancashire took place this Day - The polling was very animated and the contest close. The following were the candidates,
| Votes | |
| J Maden Holt | 3619 |
| L. Chamberlain Starkie | 3611 |
| J Fenton, | 3441 |
| U S Shuttleworth | 3465 |
The two former were returned by a majority ranging from 150 to 180 Votes.
There was a great excitement, and I understand a vast amount of money changed hands.
[November] 23rd Obtained a Grant of £15.0.0 for Widow Pilkington the relict of Br James Pilkington, 345.
[November] 25th published Bn Year Book 3rd Issue
The Radicals presented a petition against the Return of Mr Hornby & Mr Feilden for Bribery, Corruption and undue Influence.
Dec all through very wet without frost.
Christmas Day (Friday) Wet following on the Sunday by a tremendous storm of Wind & Rain, and also in the evening Thunder & Lightning - My daughter Fanny very poorly at Liverpool, had to send Essie to her
[December] 28th St Johns Festival of the Lodge - very comfortable and pleasant Meeting -
[December] 30th To the Lodge at Clitheroe, St John's Festival very good meeting. Had much Liberty in speaking. D Baron sang most admirably. Br Cal [page torn] also went from Bn J D. Thornber.
1868.pdf
1868 pdf includes the text above and footnotes by David Hughes
1869
These Mems follow the last page in this Book 60
I have removed the Diary unto this Leaf in consequence of the Book being filled to the end.
The Year began with moderate Weather, but Storm of Wind & Rain followed on the 2nd & 3rd -
Jan 7th Died Robt Cooper Bookbinder aged 72 years. He was an apprentice at the same office with myself, and Mr Hy Hargreaves & & self are the only surviving persons from Mr Rogerson's Office
[January] 9th Died very suddenly at Longton the Rev Lawrence Preston aged 53 years, a very old and valued Friend and on the
[January] 13th Mrs Stephenson relict of the late John Stevenson of the White Bull - aged 60 years. - from home in a fit of apoplexy.
[January] 17th Rev. A Fraser aged 61 Years died greatly respected formerly pastor of Chapel Street Chapel.
Rev J B. Lister resigned James Street Church pastorate =
[January] 20th Died after a severe illness - Mrs Evans Old Bull Hotel. - much respected.
[January] 22nd Rev A Frazer Interred with much solemnity a procession of about 100 of his old congregation attended, with nearly all the Dissenting Ministers of every persuasion - His death improved in the Chapel on the following Sunday.
[January] 24th At St Paul's Rev H. W. Marychurch preached an excellent Sermon for Psalm 49 "The Redemption of the soul is a precious and it ceaseth for ever"
Died William Peel Draper aged 55 Years. He was interred on the 29 at St Peters, the Members of the Lodge attending in a private capacity
[January] 29th Went to Slaidburn and stayed all night at my Brother in law the Rev W. Callis, Curate of Slaidburn
[January] 28th New Church Consecrated at Brookhouse St Michael's by the Bishop.
Jan 20. at Bahia, born a Son to my Son Richard
March 11th up to 16th Memorable in the annals of Blackburn for the Trial of the Petition of John Gerald Potter & M J Feilden against W. H Hornby and Jos Feilden. The Judge Sir James Shaw Willes came in state from London and sat from day to day in the Town Hall. A great number of witnesses were examined on both sides, and his Lordship delivered judgement on Tuesday the 16th inst when the Sitting Members were unseated - It would seem the disturbances at the Municipal Election had caused this Catastrophe - but many persons attribute it to the revengeful spirit of Mr Potter and Mr Gladstone
[March] 15th 5-15 pm A Shock of an earthquake was distinctly felt in this Town by great number of persons.
March 24 The Writ received. Election ordered for Easter Monday & Tuesday next -
| Candidates | Result | 4 o'clock |
| Mr E. K. Hornby (C) | 4738 | |
| " H. M Feilden (C) | 4697 | |
| " J G. Potter (L) | 3964 | |
| " John Morley (L) | 3804 | |
March 28. Easter Day, a very cold & Winterly Day with Snow & Sleet & high Wind. At Parish Morning - Canon Birch on the General Resurrection very solemn & impressive Sermon. Trinity in the Eveng - Mr Webb on the Resurrection of Xt [Christ], the fundamental Doctrine of the Trinity
Good Friday at the Parish - an admirable Sermon by Mr Read on the Sacrifice of Abraham's Son Isaac Showing the strict analogy between it & the one Great Sacrifice of Jesus Christ.
[March] 29. - The Nomination Day - Show of hands &c in favor of Hornby & Feilden
[March] 30th The Election passed off very peaceably and the majorities for the Con Candidates were largely increased - A foolish Man of the name of Bradshaw fired a pistol from his House in Penny Street amongst the Crowd - which caused them to break his Windows - He was apprehended and heavily fined.
[April] 10th The Weather Milder, - went to Dinckley with Mr Hy Duckworth
[April] 11th To the Parish Church - Philip & the Eunuch the ordination & intention or design of a preached Gospel - Jesus The theme of the Ministers discourse (by the Vicar) a very impressive Sermon.
Eveng Trinity - Mr Stones - Consider this all ye that forget God &c, a very awaking discourse perhaps the Clergyman took too gloomy a view of human nature - He seems a very affectionate and earnest preacher, and calculated to do good - The Curate is but a prentice Lad at his Works - and does certainly appear to me to be very careless.
This Day the 11th [April] was eventful inasmuch as Two very old and dear friends departed this life namely James Shorrock Esq. the excellent Chairman of the Over Darwen Gas Company - He attended divine service with his Wife at Belgrave Chapel Over Darwen in the Morning and was seized with a fit of Apoplexy about dinner time - He was 63 years of Age - Darwen has lost one of her brighter ornaments, for independent of his public Services as a Member of the Board of Health, a Magistrate & a large Capitalist - he was greatly beloved for his charity & urbanity of manners. - for many years I sat next to him at the Board Meetings of the Gas Company, writing out the resolutions of the Board, and I can repeat with truth, he was a Gentleman of superior worth and won the esteem of all ranks & denominations of the community.
The other Gentleman was the Revd Dr Robinson of Holy Trinity - aged only 51 Years - For a long period prior to his Death, his health & faculties had given way - in fine; he was but a skeleton or wreck of his former self - It is supposed that intense stress acting on a rather feeble constitution, overthrew the balance of mind & body - He was much beloved by the Congregation of Holy Trinity Church a powerful writer - and an energetic opponent of the Errors of the papacy.
April 11 to 14th Heat Oppressive - Thunder Storm on Wednesday the 14th, Afterwards very good Growing Weather 14th Let me not forget & thank Almighty God that 5 years since this day I was delivered from great peril - Lord help me to show my gratitude for this mercy.
[April] 15th The Mortal remains of James Shorrock Esq of Over Darwen were this Morning committed to the Grave amid the lamentations of thousands - There was a public procession, composed of Men of all ranks, persuasions, politics & religion, including the Clergy, Ministers, Priests, Magistrates, Board of Health, Board of Directors of the Gas Company & about 500 Tradesmen & Gentlemen of the Town. - All business was suspended. The Bells of the Church rang a muffled peal and every demonstration of affection and respect was shown to the Memory of the deceased. The Burial Service was conducted in a very impressive manner by the Rev Mr McDonall, Minister of Belgrave Chapel. Requiescat in pace.
[April] 16th Died Mrs Houlker, late of the Bay Horse Hotel, a Lady highly respected by all who knew her aged 77 years - Interred at Harwood.
The death of Dr Robinson was improved in two Sermons at Holy Trinity Church, on the 18th Inst. Morning by the Rev D F Chapman, Evening by the Rev G H Ashe of Witton - the latter discourse I heard - Text "For we have this treasure in earthen Vessels, that the Glory may be of God & not of us" - The attendance was numerous and with few exception all the Congregation wore deep Mourning. - Rev Ashe made some feeling allusions to the high character of Dr R as a fearless Champion of Protestantism and also of his very benevolent and affectionate disposition. - One of the Sermons (D. F Chapman) was printed.
May 4th Attended the Charity Committee at Manchester - Got a further Grant of Five Pounds for Widow Pearson, - A very fair Attendance.
[May] 8th Saturday - 11-30 am Died my Sister Margaret after a short but painful illness aged 57 Years. She died in peace trusting in the Merits of our Redeemer - Lord help us, we beseech thee to follow her in faith and love until our end also come, And I say unto you all Watch -
May 13th Sister Margaret was interred this day at the Cemetery - in the same grave with sister Jane who Died May 7 1859. - On the same day there was a Masonic Funeral at Over Darwen, in the Interment of old Ralph Ellison who died on Sunday the 9th - I was prevented attending by the funeral of my Sister.
[May] 20th A Meeting in Clitheroe to form a Mining Company (Limited) I attended and was appointed the Chairman. There was a full Meeting but I fear the majority were entirely ignorant of all legal forms and requisites
[May] 24th Died Mr Henry Leigh aged 75 Years, an old and highly respected Inhabitant of this Town.
The prevalence of East Wind has made it very uncomfortable this Whitsuntide, and though a considerable number of Scholars and others left the Town on the 17th for various places on the sea coast and to Preston - yet there was a great falling off in comparison with other Seasons. - I had a ride to Preston with Mr P Hartley.
Memr May 31st Sold to Mr John Marsden Ten Shares in the Victoria Mining Company Limited @ 12/6 per share paid which he will be entitled.
June 1st A Glorious growing day. Wind W.
[June] 2nd Journey to Clitheroe to meet the Directors of the Victoria Mining Company. - To look over and settle the Articles of Association - Mr Eastham Sol. read the rules - There were present Messrs Dr Jackson - J Blezard, John Marsden, John Southworth and Rich Constantine. The business was finished at 1-30.
Same day bought Ten Shares in the Company at 5/- per share from Hy Procter -
[June] 4th Journey in the Afternoon to Preston to obtain some Leads for the office - very fine day - had a view of the Park - in capital order -
My brother, John, of Bury visited on Sunday - and intimated his intention to leave England for America. -
[June] 13th Great Demonstration at Manchester against the Irish Church Bill, many went from Black with flags & Banners - Orangemen &c.
[June] 14th Sunday, Parish Church Rev E Birch, Vicar sermon on the Ministration of Angels - It is a pity he got so excited in the preaching - nevertheless a good discourse
Evening, Trinity, first Sermon of the new vicar Rev W. R Stephens - on the Ministers vocation, the Gospel of Christ - a very powerful & scriptural discourse most extempore yet full of quotations & apt illustrations, I think he will be a very useful Man
General Trade disastrous in the Extreme, many heavy failures affecting several firms in this Town & Neighbourhood - Truly we live in very trying times, - many have to leave Old England for America -
[June] 15th Tuesday. Memorable on account of the departure of my Brother John, Wife and family to America. Dreadfully stormy day - Wet, Windy & Cold. They sailed from Liverpool at 2 o'clock pm. Visited Son Thomas same day.
[June] 17th The Article of Association of the Victoria Mining Company were approved and adopted at Clitheroe.
[June] 19th The Scholars of the Church Schools marched in Procession to the Park - there were about 14,000 and they looked remarkably well. - The old 100 Psalm was sung in the Parish Ch: yard - All the Clergymen of the Town were at the head of their respective Schools. Such a demonstration had not occurred for 31 years previously.
[June] 20th The Accession - Her Majesty has reigned 32 years - The special services were read in the Church, and in the old Parish Church the occasion was improved by the Rev George Read M.A. Curate in an admirable Sermon - Thos Sedall had a fit just as the Clergyman concluded his Discourse -
June 29. The Witnesses (Con) attended before the Registrar for our allowance - We received a very small sum in comparison with our demands I had 10/- per day for three days. - The lower class had more in proportion.
[June] 30th John Bannister died, after a short illness - several years the Tyler of the Lodge in very indigent circumstances
2nd July Died old Sarah Pearson (aged 77) the Widow of the late Joseph Pearson.
[July] 4th Sunday - Parochial Ch: with Wife & Daughters the latter having returned from their Summer Trip. Sermon, Canon Birch "The virtue & necessity of Patience" - Evening Mr Stephens, Trinity, the privilege of Christs Flock, John 10.2. Both discourses very full of Christian Edification.
A Weeks of uninterrupted fine Weather and warm.
July 23rd Went to the All England Cattle Show at Manchester, very beautiful sight. - They took during the week about £18,000 a great success
[July] 31st Early this Morning my Son William's Wife gave birth to a little Daughter.
Aug 12th Visited Southport to see my Wife and Daughters. Lodge at 13 Bath Street Miss Baker.
[August] 14th Went down to Liverpool & New Brighton saw Prince Arthur, sail for Canada. -
[August] 15th Aug. 30th Wedding Day at Southport Sunday Chapel in the Morng - Eveng Church a very good discourse in the Morning - but, of course, strongly Calvinistic.
[August] 29th to Manchester - Charity Committee -
[August] 20th To Slaidburn. Dined with the Lodge Departure of Rev W. Callis from S. - A good and comfortable Meeting.
[August] 22nd Harwood Sermons. A remarkably hot Day - walked - I did not think much of Mr L discourse, as a Sermon, it was more in the Lecture[?], quite anecdotical. Collection.
Aug 27. Great National Boat Race - America & Oxford. The latter won by four lengths
Remarkably Hot. - Heat 134 in the Sun Lord Street Liverpool -
[August] 29. Sunday - A revolution in the air from 134 to 34 Frost at night - Terrible high wind all day.
Sepr 1st 1869 Trip to Scarboro, - (Wednesday) very pleasant journey by Rail, we arrived at 7-30 - Great accident fatal to one Man at Stensall Station 7 Miles from York, saw the Carriage which had been broken. This happened two hours before our arrival - Got good & respectable Lodging, No 9 Aberdeen Walk, Mrs Darby.
[September] 2nd Sail to Whitby very heavy sea, - but a fine voyage, and not wet.
[September] 4th Rode by Rail to Filey and spent the Afternoon there - In the Evening at the spa
[September] 3rd Rode by Coach to Hackness, very fine day, with T Knowles & Wife, and Mr Garstang and Wife.
[September] 5th Sunday at Christ Church without the Bar In Vernon Street - Evening at the Wesleyan Chapel Queen Street - eloquent discourses at both places - Text in the Evening Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.
Nov 9th Thos H. Pickup Esq. Elected Mayor
Oct 2nd Grand Masonic Celebration Laying Foundation Stone of the Volunteer Barracks by Lt Col Starkie - Dined with the Officers at the Old Bull
[October] 7th Henry, Fanny & Essy all took the Scarlet Fever but have recovered, only Fanny very weak
[October] 23rd Died regretted by the whole Nation, the Earl of Derby aged 70 years, after a painful illness of 14 days. - Interred at Knowsley on the 29th quite privately -
The Weather throughout Oct Nov & Decr exceedingly unsettled, wet & unhealthy, I took the Bronchitis, among others - Many died
In Dec died Mr Robt Cookson (12th) Mr Thomas Copeland, aged 47, very short illness, much respected
[December] 16th Letter from Richard, all well, but complains of heat &c.
Dec 24th Christmas Eve - The Weather somewhat more settled, ushering in Christmas Day a fine frosty & brilliantly sunny Day. But on the following Day, Sunday - there fell a great quantity of Snow with a terrible high Wind which continued all Day and Night, and also on the 27th making the county assume the appearance of hoary Winter indeed.
1869 pdf includes the text above and footnotes by David Hughes