Dry Drayton in the 1840s - local news items from Cambridge Newspapers.
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Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 9 May 1840 p2 Livestock Sale Scotland Farm
Live Stock, Dry Drayton, to be sold by auction by Elliot Smith and Son on Friday next, the 15th May, 1840, at three o'clock is the afternoon on the Scotland Farm, adjoining the St. Neots Road, the tenant having received notice to quit; Sheep: 140 prime Leicester couples and hoggets. Horses: A six-year-old bay cart horse; 2 strong black mares (1 six-years-old, and the other seven); 2 brown mares, eight years old; promising six-year-old filly; and five-year-old thorough-bred nag mare, quiet in harness. Cow stock: two cows and calves, four heifers, down calving; a 3-year-old bull, and six cow buds. Swine: four fat hogs, eight large store hogs, and three sows in pig, and one sow and pigs. Credit on all bargains above £5, on approved joint security, until the 1st September. Catalogues may be had at the Crown Inn, St. Ives; George, Fenstanton; and of Elliot Smith and Son, Cambridge
Cambridge Chronicle 24 October 1840 P2 Death of Jane Constable
A lamentable accident happened on the road leading from this town to Huntingdon on Tuesday the 13th instant, by which an unfortunate young woman named Jane Constable lost her life. An inquest was held before Mr. G.J.Twiss, one of the County Coroners the same day. When it appeared that the deceased who had that morning left her place at Cherry Hinton was on her way to her parents at Dry Drayton, and that the master whose service she was leaving having occasion to send a drill to Dry Drayton she took the opportunity to ride upon it. On descending the hill about three quarters of a mile from How’s House, the ridge chain broke and the deceased was thrown forward and her head cut and fractured in so frightful a manner by the near wheel passing over it that she died on the spot. The driver, who was likewise riding was also seriously hurt. It did not appear that there had been any carelessness on the part of anybody, and the jury found a verdict of accidental death.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 26 December 1840 p3 Dry Drayton man accused of theft
John Hill of Dry Drayton was committed for trial for stealing fowls; he was offering them for sale at 1s each and they prove to be the property of Mr. Jeremiah Kent of Wilbraham.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 16 January 1841 p2 Death of the Rector
Died on Saturday last, the 9th inst., at the Rectory, Dry Drayton, in this county, aged 76, the Rev, Samuel Smith, D.D., Prebendary York and Durham, Rector of Dry Drayton, and formerly Dean of Christ Church, Oxford, to which he was appointed in 1824, but exchanged that preferment with the present Dean, Dr. Gaisford, in 1831, for the prebendal stall in Durham Cathedral. Dr. Smith married the daughter of the late Sir W. E. Taunton, many years town clerk of Oxford, and sister of the late Judge Taunton. —The living of Dry Drayton (value 320l. per annum,) is in the gift of Dr. Smith’s heir. The prebendal stall in Durham Cathedral is worth about 3,000l. per annum.—The death of Dr. Smith will be severely felt by the poor of his own parish, who have so often and so freely partaken of his large charitable donations.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 20 February 1841 p3 Farm sale - 3 Lots
Freehold Homestall, Orchard, and Allotment of Land, Dry Drayton, to be Sold by Auction by Elliot Smith and Son. At the Horse-Shoes public-house, Dry Drayton, on Thursday, February 25th, 1841, at Seven o’clock in the Evening;
Lot I. All that convenient Dwelling House, with Stable, Barn, Close or Orchard, and Yard, as now in the occupation of Mr. William Markham and situate at the upper end of the village, with the exception of the small piece of Garden allotted to lot 2.
Lot 2 All that Cottage and Blacksmith's Shop (Where was this?) adjoining the last lot, with Garden, as now occupied with the Cottage and small additional piece extending from the back of the Blacksmith’s Shop to the side fence of Mr. Markham's yard. The purchaser of this lot is to plant and maintain a quick fence between this and the last lot.
Lot 3. An allotment of rich arable land, situate in Stone Field, (Where was this?) a short distance from the village, the Town Brook running through it, and containing, more or less, 1A 1R and 33P. Possession will be given at Lady-day.
Further particulars may be had of Messrs. E. & E. Foster, Solicitors. or of Elliot Smith & Son. Cambridge.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 16 October 1841 p3 Sale of property owned by the former Rector of Dry Drayton.
Cambridgeshire Estates and Manors, Dry Drayton, Toft, Hardwick, Kingston and Comberton, all within easy distance of the town of Cambridge, nearly all Freehold, tithe free and exonerated from Land Tax, containing about two thousand acres in seven farms also several allotments of arable and rich old pasture lands, tenements and detached homestalls, to be sold by auction by Elliott Smith and Son at the Red Lion Inn Cambridge on Friday November 19th 1841 at 12 o'clock at noon (by order of the Devisees of the late Rev Samuel Smith D.D.)
The following Estates, in Lots:
At Dry Drayton ,
A farm house, with suitable Agricultural Buildings and 165A, 0R,2P of rich Arable and Pasture Land, (Where was this?) the occupation of Mr. Wm. Asplen.
A good Farm House and Homestall, with 150A. 1R, 19P. of Arable and Pasture Land, in the occupation of Messrs Day and Craft.
A capital brick-and-slate Farm House, with 172A, 3R. 18P. of Arable Pasture and Wood Land, in the occupation of Mr. Richard Newton.
A very good timber-and-tiled FARM HOUSE, with large Agricultural Buildings, and rich Pasture, wood, and arable lands, in occupation of Mr. Thomas Hallack, containing 246A. 3R. 7P.
Also, all that superior newly-erected brick-and-slate Farm House with extensive Agricultural Buildings situate adjoining the St. Neots road, and known by the name of the "New Farm". and 447A. 2R. 16P. of Arable, Wood, and pasture land, now in the occupation of Mr. Samuel Winters and others.
Also, in 20 Lots, several tenements, detached homestalls, closes, and allotments of Arable and Pasture land, containing upwards of 200 acres, partially situate in the centre of the village, and part adjoining the Huntingdon Turnpike-road.
Also the freehold Manor of Crowlands and leasehold Manor of Coventry, with the Annual Quit-Rents. Heriots, and Fines.
At Toft, situate on the Road leading from Cambridge to Bourn.
A very excellent timber and tile farm house with suitable Agricultural Buildings, and 155A. IR. 36P. of arable and pasture land, (a very small portion in the parish of Comberton,) now in the occupation Mr.Porter Payne.
Also, the Manor and large farm house, with extensive Agricultural Buildings, and 287Aa. 3R. 30'p Arable and Pasture LAND, in the occupation of Mr. Joseph Pentelowe.
Also, Seven Lots of tenements, Arable and pasture land.
At Hardwick:
All that allotment of arable land, adjoining the road, from the village to Toft, in the occupation of Mr. Whittet containing 14A. 1Rn. 10P.
At Kingston
All that Copyhold Tithe free allotment of arable land near Kingston Bridge, in the occupation of Mr.Porter Payne containing 7A. OR. 4P.
The whole of the above Estates are in a highly improving condition, are intersected by good gravel roads and contain several valuable old woods and thriving plantations. The greater part of the buildings are in good repair. The homestall on New Farm has been recently erected at a very large expense. The Tenants who hold as yearly tenants are highly respectable. The market towns of Cambridge, St. Ives, St Neots, and Royston (excellent Corn Markets) are all very conveniently situated, and but very short distances. To view the Farms please to apply to Mr. W.Markham of Dry Drayton, on Monday Tuesday. and Wednesday, (on Monday and Wednesday between the hours of 10 and 4 and on Tuesday between 2 and 4 ) and plans and particulars may be had 21 days prior to the Sale, of Messrs Boodle and Co 9 Davies Street, Grosvenor square, Auction Mart, London , of Messrs. Evans & Son Ely and of Elliot Smith & Son, Cambridge.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 4 December 1841 p2 Thief convicted
Adjourned Quarter Sessions. Charles Chamberlain, aged 18, Dry Drayton, labourer, charged on oath of William Littlechild, of Chesterton, labourer, with having feloniously stolen a canvas bag, two half crowns, two shillings, a six pence and two penny pieces the property of the said William Littlechild . Guilty. Six months imprisonment and to be twice privately whipped. (Cambridge General Advertiser 8 Dec 1841 p2 for sentence).
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 15 January 1842 p2 Estates for sale.
Estates, Dry Drayton, to be sold by auction by J.Wentworth at the Black Horse, in Dry Drayton, Tuesday, January 1842, at Six o'clock the Evening
Lot 1 Double Messuage or tenement,known as the "Manor House", situated nearly opposite the Church, occupied by Widow Chapman and others, together with the Yard, Barn, Stables, and Outbuildings. Also, another tenement and Butcher's Shop, occupied by William Vials, butcher, together with a Close of Pasture, Garden, and Orchard, all adjoining the homestall and containing One Acre and a-Half (more or less).
Lot 2.—An Allotment of Arable Land, lying between Dr. Smith's and Mr. Bridgford's Lands, at the entrance to the Village, containing One Acre and a Half (more or less). The above property is Copyhold of the Manor of Coventry. Quit Rent 3d.
For further particulars inquire of Mr. K. Barlow, solicitor, St. Andrew's Street, or of J. Wentworth, Auctioneer and Upholsterer, opposite Trinity College, Cambridge.
These did not sell and were advertised to be auctioned again on 19 May 1842 (Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 7 May 1842 p2)
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 7 May 1842 p2 Village shop for sale
General Shop Baking Premises Dry Drayton, Cambs. (Where was this?) To be sold by auction by Joseph Wentworth, at the Black Horse public-house, Dry Drayton, Thursday, June 2, 1842, at Seven o’clock in the evening, in one lot. All those desirable Premises occupied by Mr. Alexander Bell, Grocer, Baker, and General Shopkeeper, comprising Double Messuage, with Shop and Bake Office, in which is an eight-bushel Oven, Yard in front, Stable, and Outbuildings. Copyhold of the Manor of Crowlands. Quit-Rent. For further particulars enquire of Mr. J. P. Lawrance, solicitor, or of the Auctioneer, Cambridge.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 9 July 1842 p7. Sale of farm and land
Dry Drayton, Five Miles from Cambridge, approached from the Huntingdon and St- Neots Roads. Eligible Estate, Comprising an excellent Dwelling House, and Agricultural buildings of very .superior description, in capital repair. Plantation and lands of Fine Staple, Freehold, Tithe-free, and Land Tax redeemed; capable of immense improvements by a small outlay in draining and manure, the sole benefit of which, owing to the peculiarly favourable tenure of the land will be derived by the possessor. With possession at Lady Day next. Two thirds of the purchase money may be had on mortgage at 4 per cent, for a term of years:
To be sold by auction by Messrs Mann at the Eagle Inn Cambridge on Saturday July 30 1842 at five o'clock in the afternoon.
Lot 1.— 23 a. 0r. 20p. of fine Arable Land, with a narrow belt of trees, next the Lodge by the road leading to Childerley, and adjoining the Estates of CoI. Calvin, —now Barley.
Lot 2.—Two Inclosures of fine Arable Land, one containing 26a. 2r. 10p, and the other 3a. 1R 10p., with a driftway which will be made thereto by the vendor out of the east side of Lot 1, also adjoining the Estate of Col. Calvin and Lots 1 and 3, —now Wheat.
Lot 3. 32 a. Ir. 12p. of fine Arable Land, with a narrow Plantation next the last Lot,—now in fallow for Wheat.
Lor 4.— 14 a. 0r. 5p., small part Pasture, and the remainder Arable, in fallow for Wheat, being a corner piece and adjoining the road leading to Dry Drayton village, as well as the St. Neots road.
Lot 5.— 29a. 0r. 35p., small part Pasture, the remainder Arable, (with a narrow Plantation), which is partly Fallow and partly Corn,—occupied by Mr. Stearn.
Lot 6.—An Inclosure of good Land, containing 41 Acres, small part Pasture, the remainder Arable, now fallow for Wheat,—with a narrow Plantation next the road.
Lot 7.—An Inclosure of Arable Land, containing 22a. 2r. 31p., now Wheat, (with narrow Plantation containing about One Acre, next the road.)
Lot 8.—A Plantation of well-selected and thriving young trees, containing 8a. 0r. 34p.
All the above Lots front the St. Neots Road, south, and the Estate commences by the turn of the road to Hardwick, and ends at the Lodge by the Childerley road.
Lot 9.—Bee Garden Farm, comprising the above mentioned Dwelling- House and Premises, with 8 Inclosures of fine staple Arable Land and of Pasture containing 222a. 1r. 0p , forming altogether a most desirable occupation, and one which, if properly conducted may he turned to considerable profit.
Lot 10.— An Inclosure of Arable Land, containing 23a. 3r. 26p. with a narrow belt of Plantation, fronting the St. Neots road, south, and the road leading to Dry Drayton village, west.
A Lithographic Plan of the Lots, with particulars and conditions of sale, may be had by the 20th instant, at the place of sale; or the newspaper offices, Cambridge; Messrs. Cuddon, conveyancers, Norwich and of the Auctioneers, Norwich.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 10 September 1842 p2 Support from Parishes for the Cambridge to St Neots Toll Road
County Petty Sessions — Liability of Parishes to make up Road Trust deficiencies. Mr. Day, Clerk to the Trustees of the St. Neots and Cambridge road applied for an order from the Magistrates to compel the parishes of Madingley, Dry Drayton. Childerley and Boxworth, through or by which the said road passed to furnish out of their highway-rate certain amount of money, calculated at the rate of £20 per mile for the repair of the same, as the recent Act empowered them to do when it could be shewn that the funds of the trust were too poor to meet the necessary outlay. Mr. Day produced an abstract of the balance sheet of the expenditure, in which it appeared they were indebted to the sum of £2000 on the mortgage of their tolls and £1,200 for unpaid interest. The value the road had been so much reduced in consequence of the little posting that was now done upon that line, that though the tolls were put up for competition at the sum of £740, the money received for them last year, there was no bidder to be found, and there had been £650 only offered by tender, which they were not legally allowed accept. The Overseers of the parish of Boxworth disputed the right to the demand........
Orders were accordingly granted against Madingley parish for £23 1s 3d; Dry Drayton for £14, Childerley for 7s 6d and Boxworth for £1.15s.
Cambridge General Advertiser - Wednesday 28 September 1842 p2 Debts owed
All persons to whom John Burton, late of Dry Drayton, farmer, stood indebted at the time of his decease are requested to send particulars of their respective claims my office without delay. C.H.Cooper, Solicitor to the administratrix 13 Sidney Street, Cambridge 22nd September 1842.
Cambridge General Advertiser - Wednesday 7 December 1842 p1 Assault on hired servant
Cambridge Division Petty Session Sat Dec 3rd. Mr. Newton of Dry Drayton was fined 6d and the expenses for having assaulted his hired servant.
Cambridge Chronicle, 19 November 1842, P2 Fatal Accident to Mr. Wilmot a butcher
On Saturday afternoon last, a fatal accident happened to a young man of the name of Willmot, a butcher, residing at Dry Drayton, as he was proceeding home from the Cambridge Market with his horse and cart. It appeared that he walked by the side of the horse for some miles as he had no reins to guide it; at length however he got into the cart, and for some time the horse went very quietly and steadily, but all at once the animal took fright and ran away. The deceased attempted to get out in front but as he was trying to do so one wheel went into a ditch, upset the cart and he was thrown under the horse and killed on the spot. On Monday last an inquest was held upon the body by G.J.Twiss, Esq, Coroner at the Three Horse Shoes, when the above facts having been sworn to by a woman of the name of Badcock (who was thrown out of the cart and much bruised). The jury returned the verdict of “Accidental Death”.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 10 June 1843 p2 Sale of property
Dry Drayton. To be sold by auction by Elliot Smith and Son at the Horse Shoes Public-house. Dry Drayton, on Thursday next, June 15, 1843, at seven o'clock in the Evening, in one lot, by direction of the Mortgagee, under power of Sale;
All that Convenient Dwelling House, situate at the upper end of the village, with Barn, Stable, and Yard, and large productive Orchard or Garden, now occupied Messrs. Ansell and others, at the extreme end of which and fronting a Public Path, have recently been erected Two slated tenements. Further particulars may be had of Messrs. E. and E. Foster, solicitors; or of Elliot Smith and Son, Cambridge.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 23 March 1844 p1 Fraud conviction
Assize intelligence - Prisoners. Elizabeth Duce, (25) of Dry Drayton, was charged with having obtained under false pretences a print dress and other articles, from the shop of Mr. William Eaden Lilley, of this town. The prisoner pleaded guilty. His Lordship sentencing her stated that it appeared by the depositions that the goods had been obtained by means of a piece of paper, which slated that the prisoner was entitled to certain goods as a member of charitable society, at Dry Drayton, of which Miss Smith had the management. The prisoner, however, had not represented that the order was in the hand-writing of Miss Smith, if she had done so, the offence would have been a much more serious one. He did not find that she had ever before been convicted of any crime, and therefore the sentence was that she be imprisoned and kept to hard labour six calendar months.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 1 June 1844 p1. Refusal to pay poor rate
Cambridge Division Petty Sessions. Dry Drayton.—Refusal to pay a Poor-rate.—An old lady named Esther Smith was summoned by Stearn, the overseer of the parish, for refusal to pay a rate, amounting to 10d.—The defendant said that the complainant came to her house very tipsey, and having only 31/2 d. at the time in her possession, she said she would send the 10d. She never objected to pay. A fierce altercation took place between the parties, which ended in Mrs. Smith paying the rate, and the cost of the summons. The expenses were 10s. and the rate 10d. The defendant said she would rather pay 10s. to the magistrates than 10d. to the overseer. He had called once for it, and his behavior was very rough, and like a drunken man.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 31 August 1844 p2 Cottages for sale.
Cottages, Dry Drayton, to be sold by auction by Elliott Smith and Son. At the Queen Adelaide public-house, Dry Drayton, on Tuesday next, 3rd of September, 1844, at 7 o'clock in the evening, by direction of the Board of Guardians of the Chesterton Union, under order of the Poor Law Commissioners, subject to such conditions of sale as will then be produced;
Lot l. Double cottage, with Gardens attached, containing by measurement, seven Poles, having a long frontage before the estate of the Devisees of the late Rev. Dr. Chafy, and next the High-road leading the St. Neots road, occupied by Robert Empey.
Lot 2.—A Piece of Ground, staked out, containing eleven Poles, with the Cottages erected thereon, occupied by Benjamin Empey and Elizabeth Bradford, situate in High-street, and fronting a close, the property of the Rev. Dr. Proctor.
Lot 3.—Another piece of Ground, staked out, containing 10 poles, and adjoining the last, with the Cottages erected thereon, occupied by James Dence and Jno. Pratt.
Lot 4.—Another piece of Ground, staked out, containing six poles, and adjoining the last, with the Cottage erected thereon, occupied by John Dilley.
Lot 5.—Two Cottages, with Ground attached, containing eight poles, occupied Wm. Badcock and another, situate in Butchers Lane, adjoining the estate the property of Richard Foster, Esq.
Further particulars may be known by applying to the parish officers; Mr. J. Barlow, Clerk to the Board Guardians; Mr. J. D. Ketch, solicitor; or of Elliot Smith and Son, Cambridge.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 21 September 1844 p2 Assault
Cambridge Division Petty Sessions. Saturday Sept 14. William Chapman of Dry Drayton was charged by John Ansell, if the same place, with an assault. Mr Cooper appearing for the defence. The charge being proved the defendant was convicted in the penalty of 5s and costs, or in default to be imprisoned for 21 days
Cambridge General Advertiser - Wednesday 16 October 1844 p3, poaching
Cambridge Division Petty Sessions. Saturday October 12. Joseph Hickman of Dry Drayton, labourer, charged by Wm Phypers, farmer, of Longstanton with using snares, was sentenced to 40s fine and costs or 5 weeks hard labour. William Annable of Dry Drayton, charged by the same prosecutor, with a similar offence, was sentenced to a similar penalty.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 9 November 1844 p3 Incendiary Fire
Incendiary Fire at Dry Drayton. A fire broke out Tuesday morning, on the farming premises (Where was this?) of Mr. R. Phypers, Dry Drayton, a village situate about six miles north of this town. The fire was first discovered about one o'clock, in the stackyard between a barley, pea. and bean stack, nearly the whole of which was consumed with the addition of a bean stack. Alarm was given in Cambridge, about a quarter before two o'clock, and the engines of the Essex Economic, and Norwich Union Assurance Companies were immediately sent off. The Phoenix was summoned, but did not start. By the assistance of the labourers, which was readily and willingly given, aided by the fire engines, four wheat and other stacks were saved from the flames. Fortunately the wind was blowing in an opposite direction, or the adjoining premises of the Rev. W. Smith and Mr. Reynolds, jun. must have fallen a prey. The farm is the property of Capt. Purchas, R.N., of this town. Mr. Phypers had his stock insured in the Norwich Union Assurance office. The loss is estimated at about £150. We are happy in being enabled to add that the conduct of the labouring population was exemplary in the extreme, and we trust may taken as a sample of the general good feeling of the peasantry of Cambridgeshire.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 7 December 1844 p3 Timber Sale
Timber Dry Drayton. To be sold by auction by Elliot Smith and Son, on Thursday next Dec 12 1844 at 11 o’clock. Comprising some large Poplar trees, Faggots and brush-wood on Mr Pentelon's Farm; also. 50 Ash and Elm Trees, felled last year; 70 Ash and Elm Trees, standing; 1000 Faggots, brushwood, and quantity of Poles, In Mr. Kent's Hedge Close. Among the above will be found very many useful clean sticks. ... Credit on all bargains above £5. on approved joint security until New Lady-day next. Catalogues may be had at the Horse Shoes, Dry Drayton, public houses in the neighbouring tillages, and of Elliot Smith & Son, Cambridge.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 14 December 1844 p2 Inquest
On Wednesday last, an inquest was held before Mr. Cooper, coroner for this borough at the "Traveller's Arms," Huntingdon Road, on| view of the body of Ambrose Beard, late of Dry Drayton, who came to his death under the following circumstances. The deceased, who was in the employment of Mr. John Day, of Dry Drayton, farmer, was going from Cambridge towards Dry Drayton about half-past one o'clock, Tuesday afternoon, driving a wagon, drawn by two hones. The wagon was loaded with 16 cwt. of coals, and 2 coomb of oats. He and Mr Day were both walking at the near side of the waggon, against the hind wheels. When they were about a furlong on the Cambridge side of the Traveller's Arms, a boy, who was coming towards Cambridge, swung a basket about, and by so doing frightened the horses, and they ran away; the deceased ran after them and fell down, and both the near wheels of the wagon went over him. Assistance was immediately procured and the deceased was taken to the Traveller's Arms where he died about two hours afterwards Neither his legs nor his arms were broken, but his stomach was much bruised, and his face was very bloody. The jury returned a Verdict of "Accidental death" with a deodand of three shillings upon the horses, the waggon, and the loading.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 18 January 1845 p2 Sale, live and dead stock.
Live and Dead Stock, and Effects, Dry Drayton to be sold by auction by Elliott Smith and Son. On Thursday the 30th January, 1845, at one o'clock, on premises, by direction of Mr. Richard Phypers; comprising two nag and one cart horses, four cows, and one bull. 44 fat hogs two sows and pigs, three ditto in pig, 10 store hogs, stack of clover, (about 24 ton), three market carts, and one Tumbril, about 40 lots of ash, elm and poplar timber and other effects. Three months' credit on approved joint-security, for all bargains above £5. Catalogues may had at the Horse-shoes, Dry Drayton; public-houses in the neighbourhood; Crown, St. Ives; or of Elliot Smith and Son, Cambridge.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 10 January 1846 p2. Furious driving
Cambridge Division Petty Sessions, County Courts Saturday Jan 4. Furious Driving.— William Crane, was charged by Mr. Francis Woods, of Cottenham, with having on the 19th ult. damaged a cart belonging to him and endangered the life and limbs of one William Nightingale, in the parish of Dry Drayton, by furiously driving a wagon on the high road. Mr. Cooper appeared for the defendant. The defendant, a curious looking rustic, who stood gaping round the Court, was accused of a propensity to exhibit his skill as a charioteer, at the expense of the safety of the Queen’s lieges. Nightingale, Mr. Wood's servant, stated that he was driving his master's cart, and the defendant his master’s waggon, and that suddenly the defendant whipped his horse and dashed against witness’s vehicle, breaking the wheels and the axle-tree, and precipitating him out. A little old man named George Collett who was riding in another cart at the time, confirmed the statement of Nightingale. On the part of the defendant, Mr. Cooper contended that it was only an accident, not resulting from the furious driving of the defendant. He was fined 5s. and the expenses 16s.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 30 May 1846 p2, Assault charge
Commitments to the County Gaol. William Impey of Dry Drayton labourer, committed by the Rev Wm Smith and W.J.Purchas Esq charged with assaulting Wm Walker of Dry Drayton fourteen days imprisonment or pay £1.2s.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 6 March 1847 p3. Assault
Commitments to the Castle, Feb 16th. William Chamberlain, Dry Drayton, assaulting John Hird. One month or pay £1 6s.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 8 May 1847 p3 Ancient Shepherds
Ancient Shepherdy.—in consequence of the rapid increase of the number of lodges in the Wisbech district, it was thought proper that Cambridge should be formed into a separate district, and accordingly a grant was given from the head of the Order in April last, at their annual meeting, and an opportunity has soon occurred to call upon the officers of the Cambridge district. A Lodge of the Order has been formed, at the house of Bro. Thomas Badcock, Queen's Head, Dry Drayton; when 21 respectable young men, after examination by Bro. Pinchard, surgeon, of Cottenham, were initiated into the Order by Bro. R. Hutt, P.C.S., and Bro. James Dyson, Pro. Cor. Sec.; assisted by Bro. Charles. A most excellent dinner was provided by host Badcock, to which all did ample justice, and the greatest harmony prevailed.
Cambridge Chronicle, 6 November 1847, Incendiary Fire
Yesterday se’nnight, about half-past nine, a fire broke out in a barn, the property of Mr Few, in the occupation of Ansell and others, which was very speedily consumed, together with some houses adjoining, belonging to Mr Sneesby. Fortunately the wind was blowing in a direction away from the fire or the consequences would have been very disastrous.
On the same night some combustible matter was placed under the manger in a stable belonging to Mr Badcock of the same place, which fortunately burnt out before any damage was done. On Monday following the fire a meeting of the parishioners took place in the church, when it was agreed to apply to Her Majesty’s Government for a reward and free pardon for any accomplice who would give such evidence as would lead to conviction. This request has been acceded to, and a reward of £100 has been offered for the apprehension of the offenders.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 15 April 1848 p2 Sale
Dry Drayton. Thirty five capital well grazed hogs, thirty store pigs, one sow short horned cow in profit, one yearling, ditto steer, the property of Mr Richard Phypers, Dry Drayton. To be sold by auction on the premises by Mr J.R.Mann, on Wednesday 26th April 1848. The sale will commence at two o'clock. Catalogues may be had one week prior to the sale at the public houses in the neighbourhood, the Pickerell Inn Cambridge upon the premises and of Mr J.R.Mann, auctioneer, land agent, and valuer, Scotland Farm, Dry Drayton.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 20 May 1848 p3 - Dry Drayton men accused of theft
Commitments to the Castle. Charles Chamberlain and James Medcalfe of Dry Drayton, on suspicion of having stolen from the person of William Sharman, four sovereigns and three half sovereigns, further examination at County Courts today. Later reported that the Grand Jury threw out the bill against these two prisoners. (Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 1 July 1848 p3)
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 17 June 1848 p3 Sale of Manors
Manors near Cambridge to be sold by auction by Mr J.R.Mann, at the Eagle Inn, Cambridge, on Tuesday, June 20th, 1848, at Eleven o'clock in the forenoon.
Lot 1.—The Freehold Manor of Crowlands, in Dry Drayton, the Copyholds within which are subject to quit-rents, heriots, and arbitrary fines, on death and alienation, which have produced an average annual income during the last fifteen years of £53. 3s 4d.
Lot 2.- the Leasehold Manor of Coventry, Dry Drayton, held for two young lives, under the Bishop of Ely, the Copyholds within which are subject to quit-rents and arbitrary fines on death and alienation, which have produced an average annual income for fifteen years (after deducting the reserved apportioned rent to the Bishop of eleven shillings per annum) £52. 13s. Id.
Printed particulars and conditions of sale may be had of Messrs. Cuddon and Son, conveyancers, Norwich and of the Auctioneer, Scotland Farm, Dry Drayton, near Cambridge.
Cambridge Chronicle and Journal - Saturday 4 November 1848 p4 Assault
Cambridgeshire Petty Sessions. (Before George Fisher, Esq., and the Rev. W. Smith,) John Impey, a "navvie," was charged with assaulting Mr. Markham, the relieving officer of the Chesterton Union. Markham stated that on the evening of the 17th he was on his way to Dry Drayton on foot. He passed Impey and the post-lad. Defendant ran after, came up with, and began to abuse him, and "call him all he possibly could." He finally struck him on the right breast. Had had no previous transactions with the prisoner, who was very drunk; he followed witness into Dry Drayton, brandishing his hands about. They overtook a third party, and the defendant struck him in his presence. Defendant had nothing to say in his defence, excepting that he was very drunk, and recollected nothing that happened. He was fined 2s. for the assault, and 13s. 6d. expenses, or in default one fortnight's imprisonment. He was allowed a fortnight to pay the money.
Cambridge Chronicle, 11 November 1848, P2. Barley Stack destroyed by fire.
About three o’clock on Thursday morning, a fire broke out in this village, which consumed a barley stack and was extinguished without doing further damage.
Cambridge General Advertiser - Wednesday 15 November 1848 p3 Tricksters
Still better than chloroform. —A few days back, as Mr W. Rutherford, one of the officers of our County Court, was proceeding to Dry Drayton on business, he observed a man lying on the roadside, apparently writhing with excruciating pain, and surrounded by a woman and five or six children, without shoes or stockings, one of whom approached the cart, soliciting alms, and stating that his father was bad with the cholera. "Ah" says Rutherford, "I can cure him of that" and immediately produced a Constables staff , at the sight of which the urchin took to his heels, shouting at the top of his voice, "Father, Father, The Horney is out! The horney is out!" The exemplary father immediately recovered his legs and in an instant the whole gang, cholera patient and all, took across the country at full speed. Rutherford, who was of course greatly amused made a feint to pursue, whereupon the amiable family still increased their speed and were soon out of sight. On enquiry it appeared that the same gang had imposed on several benevolent persons in the neighbourhood in various ways.
Cambridge General Advertiser - Wednesday 7 March 1849 p3, boy defrauded of half sovereign
At the County Courts, Saturday March 3rd William Bell, baker, residing at Dry Drayton, was charged by a lad named Joshua Seaby with defrauding him of half a sovereign. It appears that the boy, having obtained change for a shilling, received in mistake sixpence and a half sovereign, The boy himself did not know until he went to a public house kept by William Bell, to get a pint of beer, when be threw down the half sovereign. He took it up again, and said, "I think this is half a sovereign." Bell then asked to look at it and said that it was half a farthing, but did not return it. The boy asked for his coin again, when Bell gave him a sixpence. Upon this the boy said, "This is not the one I gave you, that was a yellow one but this is a white one." which was denied by the prisoner. The boy then took the sixpence and went away. William Constable, the man of whom the boy obtained change for a shilling was called and said that he had given change for a shilling; before he changed it he had a half sovereign; after he had done so he missed it; asked the boy about it, who said that Bell had got it from him. Committed to the Assizes.
Cambridge Chronicle, 10 March 1849, P2. Fire – bean stack
On Sunday night last, about eight o’clock, a fire broke out in this village, in a bean stack on the premises and property of Mr Kidman. Assistance was at hand immediately, and the labourers soon demolished the stack, which prevented communication with some wheat cobs which were standing on the other side of the quick. The position of the bean stack and the place therein where the fire broke out leave no doubt that an incendiary was the cause of the conflagration thus happily confined within so small a compass. Mr Kidman is insured.
Cambridge Chronicle, 19 May 1849, P2. Sheep stealing
Last Monday morning, a lamb the property of Rev Joseph Fenn, was found slaughtered at Scotland Farm, Dry Drayton. A reward of £5 has been offered on conviction of the offenders.
Cambridge Independent Press - Saturday 1 September 1849 p1. Application for spirit license.
Application for a spirit license for Stephen Palmer. The house was now used as a beer house and was situated at the corner of the Dry Drayton Road. It was well situated as a roadside house, and was required on the spot. The application was opposed by the overseers on behalf of the Parish. Application granted.
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