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Crimes, Misdemeanors, Incidents and Inquests, and other assorted news items.

Copies of the Kent Newspapers are available on microfilm at Ashford Library,
and the Centre of Kentish studies at Maidstone.

 

20 Dec 1602	Thomas Butcher of Hastingleigh, husbandman, Robert Deverall of Hastingleigh, labourer, entering the close of Francis Rose at Aldington, and taking fifteen ewes worth 6 li. (6 Pounds)	.
27 Jan 1615	Adam Gosham of Hastingleigh, labourer, at Hastingleigh broke and entered a close and barn of a certain Richard Hawke and stole "one bushell of oates" worth 10d. belonging to the said Richard.	He acknowledged the indictment and was whipped. [Richard Hawke resided at South Hill Farm ]
28 Feb 1616	Thomas Skilton of Hastingleigh, carpenter. At Waltham, stole "two bushells of wheat" worth 2s. 6d. (2 shillings & sixpence) belonging to George Harris.	.
01 Aug 1754	Eleanor Chadman, formerly of Lyminge, now resident in Hastingleigh, found guilty by the Consistory Court of Canterbury of fornication in Lyminge, and sentenced to do Penance in Lyminge Church by wearing a white sheet, and carrying a white wand. She was required repeat the following confesstion[sic] before the clergy and congregation         'Whereas I Eleanor Chadman have committed the Grievious Sin          Of Fornication or Whordom to the Great Offence of Almighty God and Breach of          His Majesties Ecclesiastical Laws and Evil example to others Now I do here-           Before God and his Congregation humbly confess and Acknowledge such my           Great Wickedness for which I am heartily sorry and penitent beseeching            Almighty God to forgive the same and my neighbours to be satisfied with this            My penitent confession and I promise by Gods Grace to live more chastely            And honestly for the time to come which God grant I may perform. Amen ' This she did do on 1st September 1754 and was witnessed by John Lynden the Rector, and 3 church wardens: Michael Dreller, Richard Argar and John Rigden. [This was not an unusual punishment, there are many cases  recorded of the same or similar punishment for this crime, in several Counties in England. The confession was standard wording for the crime.]	Eleanor died 27 Oct 1760 aged 27, and was buried at Hastingleigh, her grave stone is No.105 (she would have been about 23 years old when she was forced to make her public confession by the church. )
25 May 1804 Kentish Gazette	LOST Supposed to have been Stolen, from an outhouse in the parish of Hastingleigh on Sunday night the 20th instant, or early on Monday morning. A Liver-coloured and white Setting Dog of a remarkably small breed and answering to the name of SHOT. Also, a Yellow and white Setting Bitch rather larger than the former, answering to the name of JUNO. If strayed, whoever will bring them to the person under-mentiond, shall have all expenses paid, and be liberally rewarded for his trouble. If stolen, whoever will give such information, as may lead to the conviction of the offender or offenders, shall receive THREE GUINEAS reward. An accomplice, making a discovery, shall be entitled to the same reward, and a pardon. Apply to Mr. Humphrey Philpott, farmer, Hastingleigh, May 23.	.
20 Nov 1804 Kentish Gazette	RUN AWAY And left his wife and family chargeable to the parish of Hastingleigh. Jacob Tailor, Labourer He is about 5 feet two inches high, dark hair, and salow complexion. Whoever harbours or employs him will be prosecuted as the law directs. N.B. If he returns to his family he will be accepted.	Jacob Taylor husband of Elizabeth Stone, married in 1792 at Smeeth. Parents of William and ThomasTaylor baptised at Hastingleigh.
08 Jul 1808 Kentish Gazette	On Sunday was committed to St Dunstan's Gaol, William Evans, charged with violently assaulting John Kingsland of the parish of Hastingleigh and taking from him his watch.	John Kingsland was 63 at the time of the assault and lived to be 90, he died in 1835 and is buried at Hastingleigh.
15 Jul 1808 Kentish Gazette	William Evans charged with highway robbery in Hastingleigh-case refered to the Assizes.	.
12 Aug 1808 Kentish Gazette	Kent Summer Assizes The Assizes for this county commenced on Monday last, on the arrival of the Right Hon. Lord Ellenborough, and the Lord Chief Baron who were attended by Charles Milner esq. High Sheriff of the County, and his suite, alighting at the Court Hall, they opened their commission for holding same; afterwards adjourned the Court till Tuesday morning, when they commenced on the trials of the prisoners, among whom nine are cast for Death; William Evans 27, charged with assaulting John Kingsland in Hastingleigh and taking from him a watch, his property. GUILTY- DEATH	.
16 Aug 1808 Kentish Gazette	William Evans 27 charged with assaulting John Kingsland in Hastingleigh and taking from him a watch, his property - DEATH- REPRIEVED.	.
12 Sep 1810	Gamekeepers Certificates for 1810. A list of persons not being menial servants, who have obtained gamekeepers' certificates at the rate of three guineas each, for the year 1810 up to the 12th September inst. Thomas Kidder / Manor of Hastingleigh and Aldose [New Barn] Stephen Leggett / Manors of Brabourne and Combe among many others listed.	.
19 Apr 1811 Kentish Gazette	The sum of £17.1 shilling has been remitted to the Canterbury Bank, by the Rev. Mr. Wadsworth, from the parishoners of Elmsted and Hastingleigh for the relief of British Prisoners detained in France- Another sum of £5.18 shillings has also been paid into the Union Bank, being the amount of a collection for the same benevolent purpose, by the Minister and church wardens of the Parish of Elham.	.
18 Sep 1812 Kentish Gazette	NOTICE The Visitor and Guardians of the parishes of Acrise,Brabourne,Bishopsbourn, Cheriton, Elham, Elmsted, Hastingleigh, Newington and Stelling, will meet at the WORKHOUSE on Monday the 26th of September, with the parish Boys and Girls, to put them out to service; and any person that is willing to engage with any of them is required to attend at the said Workhouse at eleven o'clock in the forenoon. Wm Keeler , Clerk.	.
22 Dec 1812 Kentish Gazette	COOKE vs. BROWNING, falsely called COOKE This was a proceding at the instance of Mr. J.S.S. Cook, of the parish of St. Sepulchre, London, for a sentence of the Court, declaratory if the invalidity of his marriage with a Miss J. Browning, of Hastingleigh, in Kent, on the ground of his minority at the time, and a want of legal consent. It appeared that Mr Cook was born in the month of April 1780, and that the marriage took place by licence, in the month of September 1799, when he was little more than 19 years of age; that his father (who was then living) was utterly ignorant of it, till after it had taken place,and then expressed his displeasure in the strongest terms, consoling himself at the same time with the reflection, that the absence of his consent rendered the marriage a mere nulity and that he continued in these sentiments, and the communication of them to his freinds, to the time of his death. These cirsumstances were detailed in the evidence of several relatives and acquaintances of the parties, supported by the production of an entry of the minor's birth, made at the time, in a family bible, the certificates of his baptism and marriage, and the original documents, authorising the grant of the licence in which he was described as being above the age of 21. It was likewise stated, that he is now upon a charge of Bigamy, founded on the fact of his having contracted a second marriage, subsequent to the one in question; and that he was more particularly desirous of obtaining the sentence of the Court, as it would avail him materially in his defence. The defendant's Councel admitted the sufficiency of the evidence adduced, to prove the facts of minority marriage, and non-consent; but relied upon it likewise to sustain his objections, that there was a failure of proof as to the plaintiff's identity. Sir John Nicholl observed, that the peculiar situation of the plaintiff, though perhaps not so distinctly apparant from the evidence, as to come within the judicial cognizance of the court, was nevertheless sufiicient to induce it to regard the present proceeding with a very jealous eye. If collusion was to be suspectedin any case is was surely in one like this; the common dictates of humanity were in all probability sufficient to induce the lady against whom the present proceeding was directed to lend herself towards facilitating its success, great and painful as the sacrifice might be to herself. The court must therefore come to the consideration of the circumstances of the case; impressed with the necessity of a rigid scrutiny and regard the proceeding as being principally of an ex-parte nature. He then recapitulated the facts entailed in evidence, and was of the opinion that the proof was unusually strong in support of them, and that there was no foundation for the objection to the proof of identity; he therefore signed the sentence declaratory of the invalidity of the marriage.	Click for details of the lucky escape of Jane Browning.
1 Dec 1830	On Thursday night 25 November 1830 a fire occured at Mr. Marshall's at Hastingeigh. A large stack of trefoil was entirely destroyed.	[Trefoil is Clover, a fodder for livestock]
09 July 1833	William Hope a respectable looking young man, was placed at the bar, for having fraudulently embezzled the sum of four pounds, received by him as the servant , and on account of the visitors and Guardians of the Poor of the United Parishes of Acrise, Bishopsborne, Barham, Brabourne, Cheriton, Eham, Elmsted, Newington, Hastingleigh and Stelling. Mr Bodkin rose to address the jury. This was the most important case that would be brought before the court during the present session. He regretted to observe a man apparantly so respectable standing at the bad on a charge of fraud, more especially as he found that the prisoner had been appointed Master of the Workhouse at Eastry, with an adequate salary to maintain his wife and family in respectability. For the space of two or three years he conducted the affairs of the establishment without the sightest taint or imputation upon his character; when some suspicious circumstances being perceived, on an examination of his accounts, an investigation took place, and in the first instance there appeared to have been a bill amounting to 13 shillings 6pence paid to the prisoner, due to the parish for work done by a boy, which had not been accounted for to the parish. Proceeding with the inquiry various other frauds were detected; he could render no account of them and absconded leaving his wife and family destitute and the affairs of the workhouse sadly deranged. The prisoner was apprehended in London and brought hither to answer the charge. The jury returned a verdict of guilty. Prisoner was then indicted on another count for having mis-applied the sum of 11 shilllings 4 pence. The circumstances were precisey the same and in this case the jury returned a verdict of guilty. There could be no doubt the Chairman observed that the prisoner at the bar had been guilty of those dishonest practises with which he was now charged for a long period. He had before said it was the duty of that court to protect parishes from fraud; and it became especially necessary to visit the present case with punishment proportioned to the offence because there were other circumstances coupled with it of a demoralising character. The court therefore sentenced him for the first offence to be transported for seven years. "	Midsummer Assizes -fraudulent embezzlement sentenced to 7 years transportation after 14 days imprisonment.
10 Dec 1833 of the Kentish Gazette	Committed to St. Augustine's Gaol, James Jordan and Thomas Reynolds, charged with stealing, on the 30th November 1833, a quantity of uncleaned oats from a barn at the parish of Hastingleigh, the property of John Sayer.	.
07 Jan 1834 Kentish Gazette	James Jordan 18 and Thomas Reynolds 15 charged with stealing from a barn, at Hastingleigh, a quantity of uncleaned oats, the property of John Sayer. Pleaded guilty;-one month's imprisonment and hard labour.	.
12 Apr 1836 of the Kentish Gazette	On Wednesday 7th April an inquisition was held before Mr. T.T. Delasaux, in the parish of Hastingleigh, on the body of Thomas Marshall aged three and a half. It appeared that the poor child had gone into a field belonging to his father, in which was depasturing a ram, which immediately run at, and struck him on the hinder part of his head, forcing him against some pailings. The child lingered about an hour, when death terminated its sufferings. The Jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death, and levied a deodand of 1 shilling on the ram. A Deodand is a fine against an animal or object forbeing the cause of a death of a human and is payable to God by the owner.	[He died 30 March 1836, aged 3yrs 5 months, the son of John Harfleete Marshall and his wife Martha Browning]
12 Apr 1836 Kentish Gazette	Joseph Blackman and John Goldup, charged with stealing at Hastingleigh, a sack, about three bushels of oats, and a quantity of oat straw with the corn in it, the property of Samuel Sankey. Both were acquitted.	Joseph Blackman's wife was Charlotte Goldup and they lived on Hassell Street in 1841 census.
11 Sep 1838 Kentish Gazette	I the undersigned, being Tithe Owner within the Parish of Hastingleigh in the county of Kent, whose interest is not less than one fourth part of the whole value of the Tithes of the said Parish, do by this notice in writing, under my hand, call a Parochial Meeting of Land Owners within the Limits of the said Parish, for the purpose of making an agreement for the general commutation of Tithes within the Limits of the said Parish, pursuant to the provisions of an Act passed in the 6th and 7th years of the Reign of his late Majesty intitules "An Act for the Commutation of Tithes in England and Wales." And I do hereby also give notice that such meeting will be held at the Parsonage House in the said Parish, on Thursday, the 27th day of September, at the hour of Nine o'clock in the forenoon. Given under my hand this fifth day of September, 1838 Gostwyck Prideaux, Rector.M	.
12 Apr 1842 of the Kentish Gazette	Ashford Agricultural Association Annual Ploughing match and awards ceremony:-Best ploughman with four horses awarded to William Keeler in the employ or Mrs Susan Newport of Court Lodge Farm, Elmsted -prize £3, and his driver Edward Taylor awarded 15 shillings. Shepherds awards included £1 10shillings to Richard Pilcher shepherd to Mrs Susan Newport who had under his daily care 354 ewes with lamb, of which 50 were ewe tags, and lost none. Labourers awards included £5 to John Pilcher in the employ of Mr. Samuel John Sankey Hastingleigh for having brought up 9 children without parochial relief. Richard Hopkins in the employ of Mrs Susan Newport Elmsted who is now bringing up six children without parochial relief £2. Francis Allard of Wye (having a wife and 8 children)whose cottage exhibits the greatest cleanliness and comfort in proportion to his family and wages £2.	John Pilcher and wife Grace Hawkins.
14 Jan 1845 Kentish Gazette	Pigeon Shooting On Friday, the 3rd instant, a series of sweepstakes were shot off on the plain here, for a crown each and upwards, by th following gentlemen: Mr Vigor, of the Rose Inn, Folkestone; Mr. Maycock, of Cheriton House; Mr. Marshall, of Hastingleigh near Ashford; Mr. Campbell and Mr. Town, of Sandgate; at three birds each, from a trap at twenty-one yards rise. We have not space for the results in detail. The shooting was altogether of a superior order; the performances of messrs. Campbell and Marshall being, during the last match, really splendid, each killing his three birds in beautiful style. The tye was shot off at one bird each, when the contest was decided in favour of Campbell, Marshall's bird unfortunately falling beyond the ropes some two or three yards. At the close of the match Campbell took off his castor and crowed something like a challenge to Marshall for £5 a side, but being promptly reminded by the spectators that he had nothing to boast of, he made his bow, and thus ended the day's sport. Messrs. Campbell and Marshall are fine young men, and certainly first-rate shots; and from the disposition of their several friends we anticipate the pleasure, ere long, of witnessing another trial of skill between them for the palm of superiority. The weather being damp and cold, created a brisk demand for the creature comforts, an ample supply of which was provided in a spacious booth erected on the ground by Mr. Richardson, of the Ship Hotel.	.
18 Feb 1845 Kentish Gazette	To the Editor of the Kentish Gazette. Hastingleigh Coomb, near Ashford Feb 16, 1845 Sir, As the long-talked-of match at pigeon shooting between myself and Mr. Campbell, of Sandgate, has caused no little excitement in this locality, I beg to state through the medium of your paper, for the informtion of its readers, tht I sent a direct challenge to Mr. C. to shoot with him for £10 a side, and received no answer, that he declines shooting with me at all, but I found no fault with the manner in which I proposed to decide which was superior.-I am, Sir, your's most respectfully Wm. Marshall	.
04 Dec 1845 Kentish Gazette	Letter to the Editor Sandgate 1st Feb 1845 Sir, Seeing in your valuable journal of the 28th ultimo a letter from Mr. Marshall of Hastingleigh Court near Ashford, in which that gentleman seems to endeavor to correct some 'little error', he alleges your 'informant' has fallen into respecting the late match of pigeon shooting at Sandgate, in which he and I were engaged. Allow me, sir, in my own turn to say something on this subect.To be brief, Mr. Marshall has contrived to multiply one 'little error' into several 'little errors' purely his own. now for my version of the story; Mr. Marshall states that in the third match he killed his three birds, and that I missed all mine; begging his pardon this is incorrect; I killed one bird out of two, and seeing that I could not win did not fire at the third. The Fourth match I won, as Mr. M. admits, and I beg to add, that on the day in question Mr. M and I each won two matches. Thence I can see 'no ground to induce him to suppose that he can beat me.' on two other occasions, one of them at the King's Arms Inn, Folkestone, in 1843, for a horse, and that on that occasion I had two chances; here again I must take the liberty of setting Mr. M right. I had in truth only one chance. Mr. M's recollection appears to have failed him in respect of other events of the day in reference. I therefore beg to remind him, that after his winning the horse, six of us contested for a sweepstakes of £2, which I won, thus beating the champion of the day-although he had in this match really two chances-and I will, with his permission, further remind Mr. M., that on the evening of the same day he declined making a match to shoot with me for £5 a side! I am only a servant, and wishing in every way to act as becometh one, I unwilling place my name in the public papers; but I am desirous of relieving Mr. M from a mistaken notion about 'his customer' by stating in conclusion, that I am ready, and shall at any time be most happy to make a match with him for either £5 or £10., charge not to exceed 1 1/2 ounces ofshot, twenty one yards rise, and the usual boundries, and a toss for the place of meeting. I am, Sir, your vey obedient servant John Campbell.	.
16 Mar 1847 Kentish Gazette	Mr. John Marshall, Deceased All persons having any claim or demand on the Estate of John Marshall late of Hastingleigh, farmer, deceased, are to deliver the particulars thereof to Mr. Thomas Sutton or Thomas Marshall, Executors; and all Persons who stand indebted to the said Estate, are required to pay the amount of their respective debts to the said Thomas Sutton or Thomas Marshall, within one month from the date hereof. Hastingleigh, Marsh 13, 1847	.
26 Oct 1847 Kentish Gazette	It was reported last year, that there were in training 7 masters and 3 mistresses. Since that time, 9 masters and 12 mistresses have been admitted. During the year 3 masters and 5 mistresses have been appointed to schools, viz., Thomas Hill, to a school at Cranbrook, having been 14 months in training; Daniel Vincer to Bathford 6 months in training, and 2 years previously; Stephen Hammond, to Wingham, temporary, 14 months in training; Ellen Goldsmith to Margate, 14 months in training; Elizabeth Nugent to Hastingleigh, 12 months in training; Mrs Sewell to Blean Union, 3 months in training; Anna Maria Landsell to Bishopsbourne, 12 months in training; Harriet Griffin to Malton, Yorkshire, 16 months in training. One master has been withdrawn, 2 dismissed, 2 mistresses have been withdrawn. There are now remaining under tuition of the Principal, 10 masters and 9 mistresses....Since the formation of the training establishment, the total number of persons who have been admitted amounts to 114 (55 masters and 59 mistresses) of whom 66 have been appointed to schools, 24 withdrawn for various causes, 4 dismissed, 1 deceased and 19 remain under tuition of the Principal.	.
01 Feb 1849 The Times	A Miller Killed by his own Mill Sails On Thursday an inquest was held on the body of John Marshall, aged 26, a journeyman miller in the employ of Mr H. Somerford, of Borstal Mill, Whitstable. [Henry Somerford] Mr Somerford stated that he saw the deceased at noon on Monday, and sent him a short distance on an errand, about a quarter of an hour afterwards he found him lying insensible on some sacks near the door of the mill, his cap being close to the sweeps. It was his impression that the deceased must have been struck on the head by the sails. Deceased was found to have an extensive fracture nearly seven inches long at the base of the skull, and also about four ounces of blood extravasated on the surface of the brain. Verdict "Accidental Death". It appears that a man named Carr nearly lost his life a few years ago, and a cow was seriously injured at the same mill, owing to the dangerous lowness of the sails. [William Carr was operator of the mill in 1845] Borstal Mill without its sails	Son of William Thomas Marshall and Elizabeth Sayer he was buried at Hastingleigh 31 Jan 1849, aged 28yrs.
21 May 1850 Kentish Gazette	A petition, very numerously signed by the farmers of Elmstead with Hastingleigh, against Sunday labour in the Post-office, was presented to the House of Commons by W.Deedes, Esq., on Thursday last.	.
12 Jan 1856 of the Kentish Gazette	St Augustine's Petty Sessions before E.Foss, W. Delmar and H. Kingsford:- Mary Ann Dray produced the evidence on which the paternity of her child was fixed on George Hayward, the son of a small farmer at Hastingleigh. The chief corroborative evidence was his own admissions though he sought to counteract them by imputations on the girl, which were held to no avail. He was ordered to pay 2 shillings a week.	[child was George William Dray ch. 23 Dec 1855 at Bridge, son of Mary Ann Dray. George Hayward was the son of Charles Hayward and Elizabeth Stickles]
20 May 1856 of the Kentish Gazette	SUPPOSED DEATH FROM A HORSE- An inquest was held last week by Mr. Delasaux on the body of Daniel Brooks, an agricultural labourer in the employ of Mr. John Sankey, of Hastingleigh, who came by his death through, as supposed, the kick of a horse. According to the evidence of a fellow servant, William Knott, deceased, who was mate, had been to Wye, and returned home in the evening rather the worse for liquor. After having his supper he went to see about the horses in the stable; and some hours afterwards was found in an out house, he having received a severe injury on the front part of his head. Witness on entering the stable found one of the horses loose, and it being believed that deceased might have received the injury from it, a verdict was returned of 'accidental death, but by what means there was no evidence to show. '	.
02 Jun 1857 Kentish Gazette	A PROLIFIC EWE Mr. Burch, of Hastingleigh, has in his possession a ewe sheep, which has yeaned 14 lambs in 14 years.	.
26 Jul 1859 of the Kentish Gazette	John Tutt of Smeeth, was charged by Louisa wife of John Roberts of Hastingleigh with indecently assaulting her. Having heard the evidence, Dr. Carter said the case was a very weak one, and the best way was to dismiss it, and at the same time he would caution the prisoner not to take liberties with married women again. The conduct of the complainant was highly censurable, leaving her infants locked up when her husband was out, instead of being ready to receive him on his return home, and was very dangerous for the children, and contrary to the character of a wife and mother. The whole affair was very discreditable to her.	Louisa nee Hall, wife of John Roberts of Hastingleigh.
26 Jul 1859 of the Kentish Gazette	Magistrates' Clerk's Office before the Reverend N. Toke. Henry Coppins was charged with being a deserter from the East Kent Artillery Militia and William Allard, a private in the same regiment, with inciting him to desert. Both parties live at Wye, and according to Allard's statement, were in Dover together in January last, and Coppins wanting some money, Allard, who then belonged to the regiment enlisted him in the Kent Artillery Militia and he was subsequently attested and joined. The regiment being called out for a month's training last June, they started from Wye together to go there, but Coppins went no further than Brabourne, at that place giving his companion the slip, who pursued his way to Dover alone, and apon being questioned told his commanding officer of Coppins' conduct. Upon returning to Wye, the regiment having been disembodied the day previously, he gave information to Sergeant English K.C.C. who upon apprehending Coppins, was told by him that Allard had incited him to desert; he therefore took the latter in to custody also. Coppins told the magistrate that in January last he was in company with Allard at Folkestone and without his knowledge Allard took a pair of boots belonging to him and pawned them. After that they went to Dover, and having spent the money, Allard told him he could procure some more money by enlisting, and if he did so in a false name he had no occasion to go up when the regiment was called out. Upon these representations he (Coppins) enlisted. Both were committed for communication with the regimental authorities.	[Henry Coppins was the brother of John William Coppins, whose wife Ann Allard was sister of William Allard in this case. John William Coppins was the father of Willliam 'Bill' Hayward, verger of Hastingleigh Church.]
10 Sep 1859 of the Kentish Chronicle	George Norris of St.Peter's, saddler, was admitted into the Kent and Canterbury Hospital on Monday [5 September] last with dislocation of hip and other injuries, caused by falling from a cart whilst adjusting the horses reins in coming from Hastingleigh; he was dragged some distance.	.
25 Oct 1859 of the Kentish Gazette:	Hastingleigh- On Sunday week an infant child of a labourer named Roberts, was taken suddenly ill with diarrhoea, and the following day it was seized with convulsive fits, from which it shortly afterwards died before medical assistance could be procured. The Deputy Coroner (C.J. Fox Esq.) made an inquiry into the case, but finding there was no suspicious circumstances connected with it, he did not consider it necessary to hold an inquest.	[child Louisa Roberts was buried 22 Oct 1859 aged 16 months, daughter of John Roberts and his wife Louisa nee Hall]
1860	The Case of the Stolen Peas (Click) with James George Cook of New Barn in the dock. Others mentioned are Edward Marshall of Court Lodge Hastingleigh, William Cook of New Barn, Austen Holliday of Hastingleigh, Edward Stickles of Hastingleigh etc	.
06 Nov 1860	At Wye, Yesterday (Monday 5th Nov) morning a labourer named Edward Mills committed suicide by hanging himself.  The unfortunate man, who was about 60 years of age, left a widow and eight children. He was in very indigent circumstances and heavily in debt for a person in his position in life. These things, coupled with deficiancy in employment, are suppsed to have preyed upon his mind and led to the commission of the rash act.	Husband of Elizabeth Manuel, they were married at Hastingleigh, and he was buried there. She returned to live in Hastingleigh after his death.
1861 Folkestone Observer	Tappenden of Hastingleigh, charged with assault on Mark Dodd.	(see below 9 Apr 1861)
19 Mar 1861 of the Kentish Gazette	Ashford County Court held on Monday before C. Harwood Esq., Samuel Boorman vs Henry Birchett The defendant said his debt was not quite so much as the plaintiff claimed. It was for flour. Last Michaelmas Mr. Boorman (who is a miller at Brook) said that as it was a heavy bill, he did not want him to pay it all at once, but to pay it as he could. Since then he had paid 2 pounds 12 shillings. The plaintiff said this was credited to an older account. The defendant had had four also subsequent to Michaelmas. He was only a labourer but had constantly told him(plaintiff) that his master (Mr. William Cook of New Barn) was indebted to him a considerable sum for wages. The defendant said Mr. Cook was indebted to him for a portion of his wages, which had been kept back, nearly enough to pay this claim. Mr Cook owed him between 7 and 8 pounds. He was willing to consent to the plaintiff receiving that in liquidation of the claim. The judge made a common order, and directed the plaintiff to see Cook and try and get the balance from him.	.
09 Apr 1861 of the Kentish Gazette	A farmer of the name Tappenden, residing at Hastingleigh, was charged with assaulting a servant in his employ named Mark Dodd. The complainant stated that late of the previous Monday night he went downstairs to let his master in, and as soon as he opened the door he (defendant) knocked him down and kicked and struck him several times. The defendant admitted the assault, but pleaded justification under the following circumstance deposed to by his wife: She said her name was Sarah Tappenden, on Saturday night, the 30th March, her husband was in London. At the usual time she went to her bed room for the purpose of going to bed, where she had been about half an hour, when the plaintiff opened the door and went in, with nothing on but his shirt, and said "are you ready." She was very much frightened and sent him out of the room as well she could. The facts were confirmed by a servant girl in the employ of the defendant, and the Bench came to the conclusion that the defendant was quite justified in what he had done, and at once dismissed the case, ordering the plaintiff to pay the costs.	George Tappenden, the founder of Tappenden's store in the village, and his wife Sarah
10 Dec 1861	Joseph Emmett, a tawn, ragged gipsy, was charged by Sergeant Dunk  K.C.C. with lighting a fire near the high road, and cutting underwood at King's Wood, Wye, on the previous afternoon. The Sergeant found the prisoner encamped outside the wood, along with two wives, an inumerable quantity of little 'Emmetts' and a donkey. A large bundle of wood used for cutting into clothes pegs and skewers, was in the tent, and it was obvious that some one had been cutting in the wood. He made off directly the sergeant began prying into his domestic affairs but was overtaken and stopped; in the mean time the women with the donkey made off. The bench committed him for fourteen days with hard labour, for lighting a fire near the road.	Joseph Emmett was a frequent visitor to Hastingleigh. Several Emmett children were baptised in the parish.
01 Jul 1862 Kentish Gazette	CABBAGE STEALING Tom Smith, an agricultural labourer, was charged with stealing cabbages from a garden at Hastingleigh. Mrs Rebecca Wyles, wife of John Wyles, Hastingleigh deposed that on Sunday morning, about 10 minutes to six o'clock, she saw Smith come from his house and go to her husband's cabbage bed. He cut some cabbages, put them under his arm, and carried them to his house. Witness saw him do this from her top room window, and she directly ran downstairs to call her husband, who sent their son to see how many had been cut, and went himself to the prisoner's house, but he was not then indoors. In the course of the day she sent for Smith to see if he would acknowledge the fault, but he strongly denied it. The prisoner, in defence, said that what had been stated against him was all false. He went to his father's early on Sunday morning procured an armful of Rhubarb, with which he was returning when he saw some bullocks in the corn near the cabbages, and he drove them out and then took his rhubarb indoors; after which he went to Brook and other places to see if there were any cherries fit for gathering. The magistrate convicted him of the offence; and was fined £2 and 6d. the value of the cabbages. The prisoner said he had no money, and asked Mr Tappenden to lend it to him, who declined as the prisoner was already in his books. He then caused some amusement by turning to borrow money from the prosecutor, offering to repay it by weekly instalments of 5 shillings; but also failed in his persuasions in this instance. It being suggested that his master, Mr. John Swinnerd of Hastingleigh might perhaps advance him the money, the magistrate allowed him two days to pay it in, telling him that if he had not found it by that time he would be committed for a month with hard labour.	.
28 Feb 1863 of the Kentish Chronicle	A CHILD BURNT TO DEATH AT WYE: Last week a little boy, 4 years of age, named Frederick George White, was playing with three other children, in the iving room, the mother (Ann White) being upstairs at the time. On hearing loud screams she rushed downstairs, and found her little boy standing in one corner of the room near the fireplace, enveloped in flames.The poor woman immediately wrapped the hearth run round him and succeeded in extinguishing the flames The injuries sustained were so serious a character for surgical service to be of any avail, and death terminated his sufferings on Friday.In the evening the deputy coroner W. Callaway Esq. held an inquest, when a verdict of 'Accidentally burnt to death' was returned.	son of John White and his wife Ann, formerly residents at Hastingleigh where Frederick's elder sister Julia Ellen White was baptised.
15 Sep 1863 Kentish Gazette	Encroachment at Hastingleigh:- Mr. Sankey adverting to an alleged encroachment on the highroad at Hastingleigh by the planting of a quick set hedge, which subect was mentioned at the last meeting, said that undoubtedly it was an encroachment; in many instances the hedge was within six feet of the centre of the road, and he had noticed that in one part it was even two feet nearer the centre of the road than that. The hedge had been planted for four or five years, and belonged to the governors of St. Thomas' Hospital. They had been putting up wire fencing round the property; but it was not half done, and quick set hedge was set up outside the wire fence. The hedge was planted by a tenant; and it had been passed over as unfortunately their woodreeve was the surveyor of the parish. He was writing to the governors of St Thomas' Hospital with a view of making some arrangement with them respecting this encroachment, as the Board might want to encroach upon their property to make the road wider in another place. Mr Rolfe stated that now when two carriages met in the road one was obliged to break out and go upon the land; and as the land was ploughed close up to the road, that was not very pleasant. Sir.E. Dering suggested that the governors of the hospital should be requested to send a gentleman to meet their surveyor and confer with him on the subject, and this suggestion was adopted.	.
28 Nov 1863 of the Kentish Chronicle	SUDDEN DEATH AT ASHFORD- An inquest was held on Tuesday at the Market Inn, on the body of John Burch aged 45 years, who was found dead in his bed at an early hour on Monday morning. Deceased had been for some time acting as letter carrier between Brabourne and Ashford, and had complained occasionally of an affection of the heart. He had formerly been a small farmer at Hastingleigh, but latterly had acted in the above capacity, his wife going out nursing. Medical evidence having been given, the jury at once returned a verdict of 'Death from natural causes.'	.
18 Oct 1864 kentish Gazette	STOKES LANE: The Surveyor read a letter from the steward of Sir Courtneay Honywood, Bart., in reply to an application made by the Board for a contribution towards the carrying out of an improvement in the road called Stoke's Lane leading from Wye to Hastingleigh. Sir Courtenay was willing to give £10 towards the road, if the board consented to make it 18 feet wide from the gate at Wye to the cross roads at Hastingleigh. It appeared that according to the old highway act the board were bound to make the road 20 feet wide, so they would be able to accept Sir Courtenay's subscription on the terms mentioned in his letter.	[ There are 4 families listed as living on Stokes Lane in the 1851 census, and all have moved by 1861, but in the 1841 census the indications are that what is then called Stokes Lane is what is today called Coldharbour Lane aka Wye Downs Road. ]
18 Oct 1864 Kentish Gazette	GATES ACROSS ROADS The surveyor reported that in compliance with the order of the Board at the last meeting, he had the gates on Charing Heath and Lenham Heath removed on October 3rd. Since then several other gates had come under his totice; viz, two at Brabourne, two on the road leading from Wye to Hastingleigh, one on the Pett Street Road, two in Little Chart, none in Westwell, and one on the Rockham road at Mersham. The Rev. Mr Philpott raised a question as to the power of the board to remove these gates. It was a very important question, for if the board had the power they ought to deal with them all alike. He moved that the subject be deferred until the Clerk had obtained an opinion as to the power of the Board to remove the gates. It was unanimously agreed to adopt this course.	.
20 Jun 1865 Kentish Gazette	William Kingsland, deceased Notice is hereby given that all creditors and other persons having claims against the estate of William Kingsland late of Hastingleigh, in the County of Kent, farmer, deceased who died on the 15th day of March, 1865, a probate of whose will together with a codicil thereto, was granted to Elizabeth Kingsland, of Hastingleigh, aforesaid,widow, George Marshall, of Great Chart, in the said County of Kent, farmer, and Thomas Rolfe, of Stanford, in the said County of Kent, cornfactor (the executors named in the said Will), by the Principal Registry of Her Majesty's Court of Probate, on the 1st day of May 1865, are requested to send particulars of their resepctive debts or claims upon or against the said Estate with the nature of the securities (if any) tous, the undersigned Solicitors acting for the said Executors, on or before the 1st day of August 1865, otherwise the executors will, at the expiration of the above time, consider themselves at liberty to distribute the assets of the said Deceased among the parties entitled thereto, having regard to the claims of which they shall then have had notice, and the said executors will not be liable for any debt or claim of which they shall not then have had notice. Dated this 10th day of May 1865 Kingsford, Wrightwick & Fraser.	.
03 Oct 1865 Kentish Gazette	DEFECTIVE WEIGHTS AND MEASURES A large number of tradesmen residing in Ashford and in different parishes within the division, were summoned by Mr. T. Thurston, the Inspector of weights and measures for the district., for having in their possession incorrect scales, weights or measures. A good deal of annoyance was manifested by some of the parties, and it appeared that in many cases considerable pains had ben taken to ensure correctness with their weights and balances.There was no imputation of fraud upon any of the parties summoned. The bench inflicted fines of 10 shillings each and 11 shillings 6d costs upon the following persons: Stoddard Fagg, publican at Hastingleigh for having in his possession six earthenware measures slightly deficient. George Tappenden, grocer, Hastingleigh for having a scale six drams against the purchaser and a 4lb weight three drams against the purchaser fined £1 plus 11shillings 6d costs,among numerous traders listed.	.
06 Mar 1866 Kentish Gazette	A HIGH ROAD RUNNING THROUGH A FARM YARD: Mr. Flint, farmer of Hastingleigh was summoned for suffering animals of the ox tribe to be on the highway. PC Edward Butcher proved that on February 13th he saw three cows and two heifers belonging to Mr. Flint driven by a man in his employ, to a meadow on one side of which there was no fence. Mr Flint explained that this highway went right through his yard, and that the cattle went about ten rods along it to the pasture. There was no fence on one side of the road. No cattle ever came up there; in fact it was a road never used except to go to the church. The magistrates said that if stock was kept in the meadow it must be fenced off from the road. Defendant would be fined 20 shillings including costs.	From the description this is liekly to be Court Lodge Farm.
14 Jul 1868 Kentish Gazette	Petty Sessions: At these sessions on Saturday week before G.E. Sayer Esq., there were only two cases for disposal, but in each of them two magistrates were required to adjudicate. One was the Bonnington road case, and a summons taken out against Marsh Wood of Hastingleigh, farmer, by the excise authorities for having neglected to take out at the proper time a licence to keep a dog, but in consequence of only one magistrate being present, the cases fell to the ground. The defendant [Marsh Wood] asked for his expenses, and upon being served with a fresh summons to appear on Tuesday, he created some amusement by intimating that is was very doubtful whether he should do so unless he was paid for the day he had now lost. When tendered 5 shillings by Mr. Scarborough the supervisor, he refused to accept it as insufficient, and thus ran the risk of getting nothing at all.	Farmed at Lyddendane.
24 Nov 1868 Kentish Gazette	The Disputed Rate at Hastingleigh: At the Ashford Petty Sessions, on Tuesday last, before Lieutenant Colonel Groves (chairman), G.E. Sayer, and W.D. Walker, Esqrs., Mr. Earl attended to answer the summons taken out against him by Mr. Sankey, overseer of Hastingleigh for non-payment of a poor rate amounting to 7 shillings 6d. Mr. Earl, in answer to the magistrates, admitting his name was in the rate book, but said it ought not to be there, and he did not know who put it there. Colonel Groves said that as Mr. Earl's name was in the rate book his appeal ought to have been to the assessment committee. Mr. Earl replied that he had written and offered to attend before the assessment committee and explain the matter. Colonel Groves said that while Mr. Earl's name was in the rate book the overseer had no other duty but to collect the rate from him. Mr Earl stated that Mr. Pellatt hired the farm from Mr. Hugessen, and paid the rates on the whole of it, including the lime kiln for which he (Mr. Earl) was now charged. He would be much obliged if the magistrates would consent to adjourn the case until the following week, as he would then be prepared with professional assistance. Mr Sankey stated that when the property was rated to Mr. Pellatt the lime kiln was almost falling to decay; now Mr. Earl was drawing thousands of Bushels of Lime a year from it, and the question was why should it not be rated? The bench said that Mr. Earl had had the summons several days, and they had decided to hear the case that day. Mr Earl said that the professional gentlemen were at that time engaged in the electioons, and that he could not get one to attend on his behalf until the following week. Mr Sankey said he did not object to the case being postponed for a week. The magistrates then consented to the adjournment; but reminded Mr. Earl that he would have to pay the expenses. [see next entry too]	.
01 Dec 1868 Kentish Gazette	HASTINGLEIGH The Poor Rate: On Tuesday last, Mr. William Earl attended before Magistrates at Ashford Petty Sessions to answer the summons taken out by the overseers of Hastingleigh for non-payment of a poor rate in respect of a lime-kiln, and amounting to 7 shillings 6d. Mr.F.J. Till from the office of Mr. J. Minter, Folkestone, attended on behalf of Mr. Earl. Mr. Sankey, churchwarden of Hastingleigh proved that a poor rate was made on July 28th at 1 shilling 3d in the pound. Mr Earl was rated for a lime kiln on Brabourne Downs, owner E.H.K. Hugessen Esq. M.P. The estimated extent of the property was one acre, gross estimate value £8; rateable value £6; rate at 1 shilling 3d in the pound 7 shillings 6 d. Mr Earl had declined to pay the rate and there were now two rates due. He was under tennant to Mr. Pellatt. In answer to Mr. Till, Mr. Sankey said that the assessment committee sent overseers supplementary estimate for any property which had been increased in value . Of course the overseers assessed and sent it to the assessment committee, and they put the assessment according to their ideas of what was equitable. Mr. Pellatt's land might be assessed as a mere nothing, but Mr. Earl sent out millions of bushels of lime a year from this lime kiln. by Mr. Sayer: Mr. Pellatt was assessed for the land, but no mention was made of the lime kiln in his assessment. There were a few other alterations made at the time Mr. Earl's lime kiln was assessed. Colonel Groves; I understand you to say that this land was of no value at all until it was used as a lime kiln, and then you rated it? Mr. Sankey: we were ordered to do so by the assessment committee. In answer to Mr. Till, Mr. Sankey said he could not say how long Mr. Earl had had possession of the lime kiln. He had had it four or five years, and it ought to have been rated before. Mr Till said he should like Mr. Sankey to prove the fact of Mr. Earl being under tenant to Mr. Pellatt as he (Mr. Till) was instructed that there was only a mere verbal agreement between Mr Pellatt and Mr. Earl, and which certainly did not make Mr. Earl an under tennant of Mr. Pellatt. Colonel Groves said the defendant's name appeared on the rate book, and he did not see that the bench had any alternative but to make the order. The action of the magistrates in the matter was purely ministerial. After some further legal discussion, the Bench made for the order for payment of the rate with costs; Mr. Derring telling Mr. Earl that he must appeal to the assessment commitee with respect to future rates.	.
08 Mar 1873 Whitstable Times	A BIGAMY CASE On Friday last, at the offices of Mr. Plummer, Burgate Street, Canterbury, a case of alleged bigamy, instituted by the Rev. E Brailsford, rector of this ancient township of Fordwich, or, as it is now more commonly spoken of parish, was to have come off. The Mayor of Fordwich (T.Cooper Esq.), and T.S. Copper Esq., were the magistrates present. On the case being called, there was no response from the defendant, Annie Septima Browning, although her solicitor, Mr Delasaux, was present. The information was to the following effect:-The defendant was charged by the Rev. E. Brailsford, of the town and liberties of Fordwich, for that she on the 19th day of May 1868, at St. George's church in the parish of Ramsgate, in the Isle of Thanet, feloniously did marry and take to husband one Stephen Hopkins, Solomon Browning her former husband to whom she was previously married-to wit, on the 1st day of October 1850-being then alive; contrary to the statute in such case made and provided. The service of the summons having been proved by Towne, K.C.C., the Reverend prosecutor applied for a warrant to apprehend the defendant, which the Bench granted. The case which seemed to create much interest among the persons present, thus for the present terminated.	see 11 Nov 1876 for the trial at the Assizes.
07 Jun 1873 Whitstable Times	At a sale by Messrs Cooper and Wacher, on Tuesday, at the Saracens Head Hotel there was a spirited competition for some freehold land and houses at Hastingleigh, and good prices were realised. The first lot 6 acres or 23 perches of arable and pasture land, near Evington, was bought for £315 by Mr. John Stickells of Hastingleigh. Lot 2, a dwelling house with shop and outbuildings, two cottages and about 7 acres of arable and pasture land was sold for £920 to Mr Walter Cook, of Brook. A piece of freehold accommodation pasture land, containing 2 acres, 3 roods 32 perches was sold for £225 to Mr George Brett, Buckland Dover.	.
19 Jul 1873 Whitstable Times	Petty Sessions Monday: John Ovenden, labourer of Hastingleigh, late of New Romney, was summoned on the information of Mr. William Vidgen, registrar of births and deaths for the district of New Romney, for neglecting to take or cause to be taken a child to be vaccinated, within three months after its birth. The child was born at New Romney, on July 11th 1872, and the defendant had the usual notice to get the child vaccinated. As it was not done, the defendant was spoken to about it in December, when he procured a certificate from Mr. Wood, surgeon, to the effect that the child was not in a fit state of health for the operation to be performed. The usual forms were served upon him, and he subsequently moved to Hastingleigh. He did not answer the summons; but it appeared that the child was vaccinated by Mr. Brook, surgeon, of Wye, in April last. A certificate to this effect was forwarded to the Court. The bench however found that the defendant had not exactly complied with the law, as the child was not vaccinated within three months from December, they therefore ordered him to pay a fine of 1 shilling and 12 shillings costs.	.
06 Feb 1875 Whitstable Times	The opening of the schools recently erected for the parishes of Elmstead and Hastingleigh was celebrated by a concert under the excellent management of Mr. Edward Hills and Mr. R Newport. The performances were given entirely by amateurs, and from the highly creditable way in which their various pieces and songs were given, professional talent could not have been missed. Miss Honywood gave with great taste two songs. "Remember or Forget" and "My Brilliant and I" and was highly applauded. The Misses Hills, in the opneing duet and other songs, were repeatedly encored. The gentlemen singers were Messrs. George, Cross, Wetherell and Henry Hills, nor must we forget to mention Master Willie Braham, who gave an admirable rendering of the songs "The Belle of the Ball" , "Beautiful Girls" and "The Skipper and his boy." Of course Mr. Cross was very amusing in his comic songs, and Mr. Wetherell was very pleasing in his sentimental. Mr Harry Hills gave "Bradshaws Guide" in a manner which created roars of laughter. Captain Davies in the interval astonished the audience by some very clever conjouring tricks without the aid of apparatus. A pleasing variety was given to the evening's entertainment by the Chilham Minstrels. Their songs, jokes and music and their characteristic dress, were all excellent.	.
11 Nov 1876 Whitstable Times	"EXTRAORDINARY CHARGE OF BIGAMY On Saturday afternoon, at the office of the Clerk to the Fordwich Magistrates, Burgate Street, before TS Cooper Esq. Septima Browning, who had been apprehended under a warrant on the previous Wednesday, was charged on remand from Thursday with having on the 19th of May 1868, feloniously married one Stephen Hopkins, her former husband, Solomon Browning being then alive.-The prisoner was represented by Mr Delasaux and he objected to the Rev. E Brailsford, rector of Fordwich, prosecuting, as he said he appeared there to do, on the ground that the Rev. gentleman had promised some time ago not to do so if the woman left his parish. Mr Brailsford denied ever having made such a promise, upon which Mr Delasaux replied that he had witnesses to prove his assertion, adding that he considered it very wrong for a clergyman to break his promise. Mr Brailsford repeated his denial of ever having said any such thing, and remarked that he considered it to be his duty to prosecute under the circumstances. Mr Delasaux: Is your parish damnified by it? Mr Brailsford: Yes very much. He then proceeded to read a statement setting forth that he should refuse to give evidence in that office, but offering to do so in an open court in the borough of Fordwich . He further objected to the proceedings on the ground that Mr. Cooper was not a legal magistrate. Mr Delasaux then asked that his client should be discharged since the prosecutor refused to give evidence. The Rev. Mr. Brailsford then said he would give evidence, but it would be under protest. Mr Cooper, after a short deliberation with the Clerk in private, asked Mr Brailsford if he would consent to be bound over to prosecute the case at the Assizes, supposing it were made out. Mr Brailsford having said he would , was sworn, and he produced a certified copy of the marriage of Solomon Browning to Ann Septima Cook, at the parish church of Hastingleigh, near Ashford on the 1st October 1859. The prisoner was the woman named in the certificate. He next produced a certified copy of the register of the second marriage of Ann Browning to Stephen Hopkins at St George's church, Ramsgate on 19th of May 1868. The prisoner was the Ann Browning named in the certificate. Witness in answer to Mr Delasaux, once more denied that he ever promised he would not prosecute the woman. Mr Cooper observed that did not affect the case in as much as a clergyman or any other person, might make a promise and then break it. Mr Delasaux said Mr Brailsford's friends had told the prisoner's friends he would not proceed against her, but directly she returned to this part of the country he had her apprehended and put in gaol. Mr Brailsford said he remembered saying that if the people kept out of his parish; he would not have anything to do with it. George Browning was then called, but Mr Delasaux said he would refuse to be sworn unless he were first paid. Mr Brailsford said he paid the man 6 shillings when he appeared before as a witness when the woman was summoned. He then gave him 6 shillings. Browning said he lived at Hastingleigh. He had known the prisoner for a great many years but he could not say whether she was ever married. His son Solomon lived at Ashford, and he saw him about a fortnight ago. Isaac Hogben who demanded 10 shillings before being sworn, and which was paid him by Mr Brailsford, said he was a dairyman and lived at Dover. He was present at the marriage of Solomon Browning and Ann Septima Cook, about seventeen years ago. He saw Browning two years since at Hastingleigh. Mrs Julia Allen, who received 8 shillings from Mr Brailsford, said she lived at Ashford. She was present t the marriage of Solomon Browning to Ann Septima Cook. George Allen who claimed and received 10 shillings beforebeing sworn said he lived at Ashford. He was present at the marriage of Stephen Hopkins and Ann Browning at St George's Church Ramsgate. Mrs Hopkins whose charge was 6 shillings said she also was present at the marriage at Ramsgate. Stephen Hopkins, the second husband of the prisoner, to who Mr Brailsford had to pay 10 shillings, said he was a shepherd and lived at Chislet, he was married to the prisoner at St. George's Church Ramsgate. Mr Delasaux remarked there was no evidence against the prisoner until Hopkins answered the last question. He reserved his defence, however, as he understood the woman would be committed for trail. The prisoner was then committed to take her trial at the next Assizes, bail being accepted for her appearance.	Ann Septima Cook could only have been about 14 years old when she married Solomon Browning at Hastingleigh, despite her declared age of 17. They had a son Theodore, who grew up retaining the surname Browning. It would appear that the Browning marriage faltered in 1863, when Sarah Wilson and Solomon had an illegitimate son William Wilson baptised in 1863 at Hastingleigh. On 15th Oct 1864 Solomon Browning and Sarah Wilson [nee Collins a widow] were Bigamously married at Christ Church, Marylebone and returned to live in Ashford and had more kids.  It was four years after Solomon committed Bigamy that his legitimate wife married Stephen Hopkins in Ramsgate, though they were living in Lower Hardres. On the face of it, this seems to have been an acceptable arrangement within their respective communities, as Solomon was not tried or censured for having married Sarah Wilson. And that all the witnesses demanded expenses before testifying. On 19 Feb 1877 at Maidstone Assizes, Ann Septima Browning was convicted of Bigamy and received a sentence of just 2 days imprisonment.
05 Jan 1878 Whitstable Times	SUICIDE BY DROWNING IN A POND On Friday an inquest was held in this parish on the body of Henry Birchett, aged 66, whose body was found in a pond on the previous morning. He had been low and melancholy for about a month past, having been unlucky in the matter of a purchase he had made and the Jury returned a verdict of Temporary Insanity.	.
23 Feb 1878 Whitstable Times	Hastingleigh and Elmsted At the annual supper of the choirs of these two parishes, on Wednesday evening, Mr. William Tappenden, who for the last two years has played the harmonium at both churches, was pesented with a handsome silver watch from the members of the choirs and the parishioners of Hastingleigh and Elmsted generally as a mark of their regard and esteem. Mr Tappenden's zealous and persevering efforts to improve the musical portion of the services in these chuches deserve high praise; and the cheerful,willing, obliging way in which he has given himself to the work has found himfriends on all sides. At the same time,Mr. Wetherell the master of the Bodsham Green Schools, whose services in training and instructing the choirs have been most valuable, wwas presented by the Rev. A Collett with a copy of the handy volume edition of Shakespeare, in recognition of his kind help.	.
21 March 1879	CHURCH BUILDING SOCIETY:- The society for promoting the enlargement of buildings, and repairing of churches and chapels held a meeting at Whitehall, London 20 March 1879. The following grant was awarded for the improvement of accommodation at Hastingleigh St Mary's the sum of Â£35.	.
02 Aug 1879 Whitstable Times	Elizabeth Crowd [aka Elizabeth Croud] 19 of Elham was charged with stealing a purse containing a £5 note, a sovereign and 15 shillings in silver; also a piece of cloth and some lace, the property of her master Mr. George Page, farmer of Hastingleigh. [Kingsmill Down] The prisoner was in Mr. Page's service as a nursemaid, and the purse was missed from her master and mistress's bedroom on July 1st. On Saturday last the prisoner went home to Elham and spent about £1.15s in two draper's shops. In the meantime her mistress, in company with the prisoner's fellow servant, found the cloth and the lace among the prisoner's clothes in her bedroom. A police constable who apprehended the prisoner, deposed that she admitted to him she stole the purse, and that she burnt it and the banknote but kept the money. The prisoner, however, said that the policeman induced her to say she was guilty, telling her she would be committed for trial and have to lie in prison if she did not, but she was not guilty of the theft. She was committed for trial , bail being accepted for her appearance.	Her trial was held 16 Oct 1879 at The Quarter Sessions at Maidstone, charged with Larceny as servant, she was acquitted.
02 Aug 1879	Ashford Petty Sessions:- Samuel Pilcher, innkeeper of Crundale, was summoned for unlawfully killing a cat belonging to Mr John Sutton , farmer on July 17th. The parties are near neighbours, and Mr Sutton had a favourite cat which according to the defendants statement was continually preying on his chickens, and recently killed one entire brood of sixteen, besides six out of another. He went to Mrs Sutton, complainant's wife and requested her to keep her cat at home. The next day, however, pussy was again on defendants premises, when a gun was fired from defendant's tap room window, and the cat had only strength to crawl back to her owners place before she died. A labourer who was in the taproom deposed that it was Mr Pilcher who fired, but Mr. Pilcher did not admit this. He was fined £0.2s.6d plus 5 shillings the assumed value of the cat and 13 shillings 6pence costs. He asked whether Mr.Sutton could not be made to pay compensation for the chickens destroyed, and was told he had better consult his solicitor.	.
24 Jul 1880 Whitstable Times	Elmsted and Hastingleigh This School has again passed its annual examination and the result just received reflects great credit on the teachers, Mr & Mrs Wetherell, and their scholars. Sixty two children were presented in standards, and of this number 59 passed in reading; and in writing and arithmetic 57. HM Inspector reports:-"This school is in a thoroughly satisfactory state. The work of the third standard is somewhat inferior to that of the rest of the school; with this exception, the results of the examination are good in all respects, particular praise being due to writing and arithmetic.	.
1880 The Colonist Magazine- New Zealand	The Kentish Express has some particulars of an extra ordinary life:- The final scene took place a few days since at Hastingleigh, some five miles from Ashford. In the churchyard there gathered an unusually large congregation, in the afternoon, to witness the burial of an old and respected native of the parish, Mr Henry Conley, who had died onboard the steamship Somersetshire, while passing the Downs after a voyage from Melbourne in Australia, to end his days with his eldest son Mr. William Conley, a butcher of Deal. Until receiving a telegram from off the Lizard, on Wednesday night, to the effect "Your aged father is ill on board Somersetshire" Mr Conley had not heard directly from his father since the latter emigrated in 1853 when he threw up his business unexpectedly and left the country (his wife having died, and without even bidding his family farewell.) Occasionally he was heard of indirectly, as he was a man of business, who made himself well known in the cattle markets of the colony. Latterly the old gentleman (who was 83 years of age) expressed an increasing desire to see his friends and be buried by the side of his wife at Hastingleigh. The old gentleman died when opposite to, and within a few miles of the house of his son. He had made up his mind to be buried at Hastingleigh and at his great age undertook a journey of 18000 miles to accomplish this end, but was not spared to again tread on his native soil. Mr. Conley easily recognised his father's features which were but little changed, claimed his body and had it conveyed to Hastingeigh, where it was carried to the grave by four gentlemen farmers of the parish, sons of old friends of the deceased. Previous to emigrating to Australia, the deceased held farms at Brook, Hastingleigh and Waltham was a large cattle dealer and a well known figure with the Earl Kent Foxhounds, mounted on his favourite grey gelding, a horse he had won several races with, and ridden thousands of miles. It was the old gentleman's wish that the skin of this horse should be placed around his coffin and thirty years ago the horse was shot and his skin preserved. Mr W. Conley of Deal, his son, having heard that Mrs Hopkins of Wye widow of the late Mr. Hopkins of Wye had the skin in her possession, purchased it of her on Saturday, and it was placed around the coffin on Sunday as the old gentleman had desired.	Henry was the son of William Conley and Rhoda Smithson, he was buried 30 May 1880. He was married to Mary Price, who had died in 1847. He was listed in several australian newspapers in regards to the Melbourne Horse Races of the early 1850's, not long after his horses had won several races he relocated to Geelong where he invested in a hotel and public house, and was the subject of a fraudulent attempt by his business partners to be declared a bankrupt, while Henry was away on South Island New Zealand. He returned to Geelong in the late 1860's to resolve the matter of the ownership of the hotel and public house.
12 Jun 1880 Whitstable Times a more extensive version of the previous article.	An extraordinary occurance- we sometimes read of strange events in fiction-of unexpected partings of friends and strange meetings of relations, but we are about to record a fact as strange as any fiction. The final scene took place on Sunday last at Hastingleigh, some seven miles distant from Ashford. In the ancient church and churchyard of this quiet village there gathered together an unusually large congregation in the afternoon, to witness the burial of an old and respective native of their parish. Mr Henry Conley who had died on board the large steamship 'Somersetshire' while passing through the Downs, after a voyage from Melbounre, in Australia, to end his days with his eldest son. Mr William Conley, butcher, of High Street , Deal, who was anxiously awaiting his arrival, they having not seen each other in 27 years. Until receiving a telegram from Captain Ticehurst, the Commander of the ship, dated from off the Lizard, Wednesday night to the effect 'your aged father is ill on board the Somersetshire'. Mr Conley had not heard directly from his father since he emigrated in 1853. Then he threw up his business unexpectedly and left the country (his wife having died) without even bidding his family farewell. Occasionally he was heard of indirectly, as he was a man of business, who had made himself well known in the cattle markets of the Colony. As years rolled on so the old gentleman (who was at the time of his death 83 years of age) had felt and expressed an increasing desire to see his friends and to come back to the land of his birth to die and to be buried by the side of his wife in the old churchyard at Hastingleigh, where also are interred his ancestors for those of four generations back. Though the family did not have the pleasure of meeting him and seeing him alive, after his long and lonely wanderings in a foreign land, they carried on his expressed wishes in relation to the burial, to the letter. It is remarkable that the old gentleman died when opposite to and within a few miles of the house of his son, who was most anxiously making enquiries for the ship and awaiting the return of his sire. The cause of death is thought by the Doctor of th ship to have been intense mental excitement. He was physically well all through the voyage, but began to give way as soon as they entered the channel and grew worse as he neared home . Yet he was a man who had fought the long battle of life with the greatest determination, even to the end as the sequel proves. He had made up his mind to be buried at Hastingleigh, and at his great age undertook a journey of eighteen thousand miles to accomplish this end. No small task, and requiring a very strong will for one of his years. He was not spared to again tread on his native soil; but had he have died 12 hours earlier his body would have found a watery grave.. had been spared 6 hours longer he would have conversed with his sons and daughters after a parting of more than a quarter of a century. But it was not to be. However Mr. Conley, on hearing by telegram of his decease went to the mortuary, recognised his features which were but little changed, and claimed his body , and had it conveyed to Hastingleigh, where on Sunday afternoon they were carried to the grave voluntarily by four gentlemen farmers of the prish, who kindly offered their services to the family, being sons of old friends of the deceased. Previous to emigrating to Australia, he heldfarms at Brook, Hastingleigh and Waltham, and was a large cattle dealer as well and was a well known figure with the East Kent Foxhounds mounted on his favourite grey gelding, a horse he had won several races with, and ridden some thousands of miles. It was the old gentleman's wish that the skin of this horse should be placed round his coffin, and thirty years ago the horse was shot, and his skin preserved. Mr. W Conley, of Deal, his son, having heard that Mrs Hopkins, of Wye, widow of the late Mr. Hopkins, tanner, had the skin in her possession, purchased it of her on Saturday, and it was placed around the coffin on Sunday as the old gentleman had desired. He was a man who was always ready to help a neighbour and a friend, and was a good master to his servants, and a very strong minded man and of fair and straight forward dealings, to which many of the people who were at his grave on Sunday could testify. Among the mourners were his two sons, William and Charles, and his daughters Matilda and Victoria.	.
30 Nov 1880	Charles Finn farm labourer of Waltham who did not appear, was summoned for assaulting James Bellingham, another labourer , of Hastingleigh. It appeared that Bellingham on the evening of October 18th went into a public house at Sole Street, Crundale and had half a pint of beer. Finn, who had a grudge against him in consequence of his having obtained a job which he (Finn) had neglected, followed him out, knocked him down in the road, gave him several severe kicks, and on his getting up threw a brick bat at his head. Finn, who did not appear, was fined £2.10s including costs, or 28 days imprisonment in default.	.
6 March 1883	Collections for the Kent and Canterbury Hospital include 16 shillings from The Bowl Inn, Hastingleigh, 18 shillings 3d from the Beer House at Bodsham and 13 shillings 9d from the Rose and Crown at Hastingleigh. These were submitted by the Reverend Anthony Collett.	.
23 May 1885 Whitstable Times	UNFOUNDED CHARGE OF FORGING A WILL A remarkable local Will case came before Mr. Justice Butt and a common jury in the Probate Division on Wednesday, The Plaintiffs were Stoddard Fagg and George Tappenden of Hastingleigh and the defendants Martha Hughes, widow and Jane Jefferson spinster. Mr Middleton appeared for the Plaintiffs; Mr Searle for the Defendants. The plaintiffs sought to prove the will of Robert Jefferson dated March 4th 1864, and the defendeants, who are sisters and next of kin, sought to have the will set aside on the following grounds:- That it was not duly executed; that it was not signed by the testator; that it was not signed by any person in the presence and by the direction of the testator; that at the time the alleged will purported to have been executed the testator was not of sound mind, memory and understanding; and that the contents of the will were not approved by the testator. Before the proceedings commenced, Mr Searle asked to have all the witnesses out of court. - Mr Middleton, in opening the plaintiffs' case, said that that little show on the part of Mr Middleton would at once tell the jury that the plaintiffs were accused of the very serious crime pof forgery. He should prove, beyond doubt, that not only were they not guilty of forgery, but that the defence was entirely without any grounds. The facts were as follows: The testator Mr. Robrt Jefferson, had in early life been a valet, and subsequently he kept chambers in London letting them out to gentlemen. In 1860 he and his wife, wanting a respectable person to live with them, went down into Kent and asked Miss Frances Mills to become a member of their household. This she did and remained with them until 1879, receiving wages throughout that period. The testator and his wife, in 1879, left London and came to Brook, where his wife died. After that the testator moved to Hastingleigh. Throughout this period and up to his death in July 1884, Miss Mills attended to the testator, and nursed him, never receiving any wages for her services. Indeed, as his entire income was but £30 a year, the post was not a very desireable one in a pecuniary sense. In his lifetime the testator made three wills; one before the death of his wife; another which it was alleged was drawn up by an official of the Canterbury Probate Court; and the will alleged to have been forged. A Mrs Bennett, a relation to the testator, took away the first will; and the second will was burnt by Miss Mills by direction of the testator. The third will was drawn up by Mr Tappenden and witnessed by him and Mr. Fagg in the presence of Miss Mills on the date thereon. By this will the testator gave everything he possessed, after payment of debts, to Miss Mills. For the last three years of his life the testator suffered from rheumatism very severely and did not leave his bedroom, and all his correspondence was written for him by a Mrs. Taylor living at Hastingleigh and she often came in and read to him. Neither of his two sisters saw him during the last five or six years of his life. He died at Hastingleigh on July 8th 1884. The amount of money which would pass by the Will was £550. Miss Mills was called. She stated that on the date of the document the testator said he should like to make his will, and that perhaps Mr. Tappenden would come in and draw it up. Mr Tappenden at the time was in a field at the back of the house, and witness called him in. Mr Tappenden said "You'll want another witness," and Mr Fagg was fetched. The testator dictated his will to Mr Tappenden and Mr Tappenden repeated it after him and wrote it down and when the will was complete he read it over to him several times. The Will was then handed to the testator and a pen was put into his hand, and he wrote his name at the bottom. Miss Mills was severely cross-examined as to the incidents attending the execution of the Will, and as to her knowledge of the contents of the former Wills, also on the special point that the testator had never written a letter or signed his name for several years. Miss Mills produced a piece of paper on which , in the year 1879, the testator had written his name, and Mr. Middleton said he would prove, by the evidence of Mr. Netherclift, the expert in handwriting, who was in court, that the signature on this piece of paper and the one on the Will were one and the same. Mr Tappenden was next called, and, although very severly cross-examined by Mr. Searle, he bore out Miss Mills' evidence in the minutest details. At the conclusions of Mr. Tappenden's testimony, the learned Judge remarked to Mr. Searle that he presumed the defence had a very great difficulty in proving it was not duly executed. Mr Fagg was then examined, and his corroboration was not shaken by a most searching cross examination. For the Plaintiffs there were to be called the Rev. A Collett (Vicar of Hastingleigh), Dr Manning of Wye, Mr Netherclift, Mrs Mills (mother of Miss Mills)[nee Elizabeth Stickles wife of John Mills], Mrs Fagg [nee Ann Mills wife of Stoddard Fagg], Mrs Burchett [nee Elizabeth Hayward wife of John Burchett] who nursed the testator in his last illness and Mrs. Taylor of Hastingleigh. [Mrs Taylor could be nee Ann Charlotte Ratcliff wife of John Taylor at Poor House or less likely Charlotte wife of Henry Taylor of New Barn] The Counsel for the defendants, however intimated that he considered his clients had no case, and the jury by direction of the Judge, found for the Will. Mr Searle asked that the costs might be paid out of the estate, but, Mr Justice Butt said the plaintiffs had been very badly advised in opposing the will, and they must pay the costs.	Robert Jefferson born in Knutsford Cheshire lived at South View, Hastingleigh.
29 Aug 1885	THEFT OF EGGS BY ITALIAN ORGAN GRINDERS Michele Morgi and Cushini Ciccoritti, Italian organ grinders, were charged with stealing eleven eggs. Giovnni Bonough (Ashford) was sworn as interpreter. A police constable stationed at Petham said that on Thursday afternoon he went in search of the prisoners and overtook them in the parish of Hastingleigh. After they had finished playing their tune, he asked them where they had come from. They said they came from Canterbury, and he found in Morgi's pocket eleven eggs. Ciccoritti said a lady gave them to him. Witness took prisoners to the lady (Mrs Sutton) who said she had given them 4 pence and a pint of beer. Ciccoritti eventually said they took the eggs from a hedge in Petham, and offered witness 15 shillings to let them go. He took prisoners to Mr. Marchant's farm at Petham, and they showed him the hedge they had taken the eggs from. The eggs were taken from the field side of the hedge. The interpreter said that in Italy anything found in the hedge by the side of a road was considered lost. Superintendent Wood said defendants had been in custody since Thursday. They had each £2.1shilling in their possession. The bench fined the defendants 5 shillings each; and the money was paid.	.
05 Sep 1885 Whitstable Times	Death of a Well-Known Character At the upper part of the extensive parish of Wye, adjoining Elmsted, died on the 14th August, a well-known character, Stoakes Howland. He was a man who abounded in obsolete and quaint expressions. The sort of man one will never see again. In person he was a tall gaunt bony individual. Howland was noted for his game fowls, and well-known to the late Peter Crawley, of pugilistic and cockfighting renown, who was the host of The Queen's Head and French Horn, Duke Street, Smithfield, formerly a great sporting house and much frequented by the 'fancy'. Howland was a great factor in arranging sporting meetings to test the quality of Peter Crawley's 'Grey Pile' birds. The deceased attained great notoriety as a fox destroyer,and was in bad odour with the late Sir John Fagg, of fox hunting renown (or rather noted for being at the meets); and when the meets took place in the 'hill country' of Waltham, Hastingleigh or Elmsted, this great "vulpecide" would exhibit in his garden a stuffed fox (one of his hapless victims), much to the disgust of the much respected and courteous master of the fox hounds, the late Mr Frederick Brockman (who hunted the East Kent Pack 25 years), and also much to the annoyance of the late 'sporting parson' who hailed from Adisham. Howland was a remarkably good shot, and had keen hazel eyes-sharp as his favourite game birds- and a short time previous to his death he said he could "shoot a butterfly". "Stokes" as he was generally called had not the advantage of much schooling- the Waltham School Board was not then in existence. Not withstanding his disadvantages, he tried his hand at poetry upon local matters and local celebrities. For instance:- "There's a man on the hill who wears a white hat And fond of killing foxes: What do you think of dat." The lines related to a much respected Uphill squire, who died a few years since, and that had some notoriety. We hear that the deceased died intestate; at least no Will can be found. He was a widower, and left no family. A brother, sister and nephews survive him, so this small "stout freeholder" will possibly give some employment to legal gentlemen as to who shall have his lands, favourite birds, foxes and traps.	Stokes Howland was married at Hastingleigh to Eliza Browning in 1856.
17 Dec 1887	Canterbury Bankruptcy Court- Thomas Lewis Elliott, of High Street, Ashford, Coombe Farm Hastingleigh and King's Arms, Barbican London, maltster, farmer and licensed victualler.	.
07 Apr 1888 Whitstable Times	Accident to Mr. T.L. Elliott On Tuesday night in last week, between nine and ten o'clock as Mr. T.L. Elliott was driving to Hastingleigh Combe, he met with a somewhat serious accident. He had arrived at the corner of the top of the hill, where there is a gate. His horse here turned sharp and upset the trap. Mr Elliott was thrown with considerable violence on his head, the right temporal artery being severed. He was attended by Mr. Colville, surgeon, as speedily as possible, at Hastingleigh, and brought home in a fly on Wednesday night. He is going on favourably.	.
07 Sep 1889 Whitstable Times	FAILURE OF A FARMER The summary statement of the affairs of Richard Newport, of Hastingleigh, farmer, against whom a receiving order was made by the Canterbury Bankruptcy Court on the 21st ult. Shows gross liabilities amounting to £900.2.11d The preferential creditors for rates, taxes, wages etc representing a sum £20.18.10d and for rent £75- total £95.18.10d. On the assets side the farming stock, growing crops and tennent right are estimated to produce £725, and furniture £10-total ?735. There is thus left £639.1.2d showing a defiency of £351.1.9d. The cause of failure is stated to be-"Insufficient capital and taking too large a farm". The official receiver's observations are as follows:- The receiving order was made on the debtor's petition and he has been adjudged bankrupt on his own application. The bankrupt commenced business, in 1858 at Otterpool farm, Lympne, with a capital of £300 and in October last he left this farm and took Hastingleigh Court Lodge, at a rental of £150, under a yearly agreement. The landlords have obtained a judgement against the bankrupt for £298, being the amount due for valuation of Court Lodge. In addition to this there is also £75 due for rent. The greater portion of the bankrupts furniture is claimed by his relatives. The bankrupt accounts for the deficiency shown above as follows:- Loss of 7 beasts in September 1887 , with husk £70; loss of 2 horses in August 1888 with inflammation, £100; and thebalance (£181.1.9d) through depreciation of stock in trade, bad seasons etc. Since submitting his statement the bankrupt has sent me particulars of further debts amounting to £92.13.0. the bankrupt kept no books of account.	.
17 Jan 1891 of the Whitstable Newspaper	Petty Sessions before Colonel Groves, Lord Hothfield, E.Cock and J. Sayer Esquires. George Mills a peasant, living at Hastingleigh was fined 10 shillings and 12 shillings 6 pence costs for keeping a dog without a licence till nearly the end of December, and could he have delayed but one more week would have escaped scot free.	.
18 Jul 1891 of the Whitstable Newspaper	Petty Sessions before J.D. Cameron Esq. (presiding), Colonel Groves, W.P. Pomfret MP, J.Sayer, W.W. Knight and E.Cock Esquires and Captain Billington: John Burchett a dealer of Hastingleigh, who admitted attempting to steal a quantity of cut clover at Brabourne had to pay 20 shillings or go to gaol for a fortnight.	Husband of Elizabeth Hayward.
8 Aug 1891	Kent and Canterbury Hospital received a donation of 19 rabbits from Mr. J H Kirby of Hastingleigh.	John Hammond Kirby.
31 Oct 1891	Small fines were imposed upon the following for not labelling coal sacks, not delivering tickets, or not having a weighing machine when selling coal from a truck, contrary to the County Council regulation: John Allard, John Lusted, Colin W. Gittings, George Amos, Noah Amos all of Wye and George Tappenden of Hastingleigh.	.
18 Dec 1897 Whitstable Times	The East Kent Coroner (RM Mercer Esq.) held an inquest on Tuesday at the Bowl Inn, Hastingleigh, on the body of William Curd. Mary Jane Curd deposed that deceased was her father aged 59, and was a labourer residing at Poor House, Hastingleigh. He left to go to his work the previous day at 7am. They did not know he suffered from heart disease. Richard Hopkins, a labourer, of Elmsted deposed that he was at work curring wood, in Haines Wood, on Monday the 13th inst, when his attention was drawn to deceased who was working in the next cant[slope]. Witness heard him coughing a great deal and after he had done so for some time he called out "Oh dear." Witness got to him before he fell and got hold of him. He then called the other man Hayward. Deceased bled from the nose and mouth and he died a few minutes afterwards. Mr Hubert Stanley, surgeon, of Brabourne, deposed that in his opinion the cause of death was a ruptured blood vessel in the chest. The jury returned a verdict of "Death from natural causes".	.
25 Dec 1897	Savage attack on a constable at Wye:- William Jones of No.5 White Horse Lane, Canterbury and John William Wills, labourer of Chartham were charged at Ashford Police Court, on Thursday before Mr. W.F.B. Jemmett with unlawfully and maliciously assaulting PC Alfred Henry Curtis at Wye on Wednesday Nov 24th. The prosecutor stated as he was getting home from Hastingleigh to Wye at 5.30 on the day named, he met the two prisoners. Jones had a bag with him, and witness asked himwhat he had in it. The other prisoner said "What is that to do with you?" and Jones placed the bag onthe ground and told him to look. As he was doing so a man not in custody, came up and kicked him in the right eye causing him to fall and while on the ground Wills threatened to murder him. As he was about to strike him on the head witness raised his left arm, which received the blow and had the small bone broken. Jones then struck him on the head, and he became unconscious. He recognised the prisoners at Canterbury on the previous day. Both said they were not at Wye on the 24th, and Wills said he was in bed with rheumatic fever at the time. A telegram was received from Mrs Jones asking for a remand and saying witnesses would be forthcoming. Both were remanded till Tuesday, the magistrate offering to accept bail for Jones if the Canterbury Police were satisfied, but declining to allow Wills out. At the Ashford Petty Sessions on Tuesday, the charge was further investigated. The defendants were defended by Mr. Bannon, who  pleaded not guilty. The evidence of the policeman was repeated as given at the last hearing but he was not able to positively identify the prisoner. Wills- though he said in the first instance that he had formerly known Wills at Egerton he afterwards admitted that he may be mistaken in that matter. Mr Bannon handed in a certificate which he said had been given by Mr. F Wacher to the effect that he attended Wills for inflamation of the throat at his house on the day of the assault, and he called a brother-in-law of the accused, named Walter Friend who stated positively that Wills was actually in bed at his own residence on the day and at the very time of the assault on Curtis. With regard to the other defendant, a witness was called who swore that he was at a public house in Canterbury at a time which precluded the possibility of his having been at Wye. The bench therefore dismissed the case.	.
04 Nov 1899 Whitstable Times	County Court Monday: Before his Honour Sir W.L. Selfe. Shadrach Hogben sued William File of Hastingleigh to recover £5.10.8 which he alleged to be due to him as wages. It seemed that the defendant was bailiff to Mr. Sankey and plaintiff was first of all engaged as under bailiff with wages and perquisites. On a dispute occuring, however, defendant was dismissed. He then appealed to Mr. Sankey and was again employed. He started as under bailiff as before, while the defendant alleged he was merely a labourer. The Judge held that the latter view was borne out by the defendant's books, and non-suited the plaintiff, whose claim was for extras said to be incurred during the second term of work.	.
02 Aug 1902 Whitstable Times	The Kent and Canterbury Hospital Committee have much pleasure in acknowledging the receipt of the following gifts and collections: £1.13shillings surplus from funds for Coronation Festival at Lower Hardres £2.3 shillings part balance of funds for Elmsted and Hastingleigh Coronation Festival...	.
29 Aug 1903 Whitstable Times	Killed by a Fall of Chalk An inquest held at the old workhouse, Waltham, on Friday afternoon, by the Deputy Coroner for East Kent (Mr. Gerald C. Mercer) on the body of Frederick Herbert Cox, aged 27, a labourer. From the evidence it appeared that deceased was engaged on Thursday [27th August]about mid-day loading a cart at a chalk pit on Hart Farm Waltham, when suddenly a quantity of underwood and earth fell upon the deceased. The waggoner, who was assisting in the loading, immediately helped to extricate the deceased and sent for the deceased's wife. A doctor was also sent for, but the deceased died shortly after his arrival. The jury returned a verdict of Accidental Death.	.
6 January 1906	AFFILIATION ORDER Henry Charles Hayward was summoned by Mary Buckman, [Mary Mahala Buckman later Ferridge] formerly a servant at the Bowl Inn, Hastingleigh, in respect to the paternity of a male child (*). The case had been adjourned for want of corrobative evidence. After hearing further testimony, the Bench ordered the defendant to pay 2 shilling per week until the child attained the age of fourteen years; also 1 pound.12 shillings .4d in Court fees.	(*)Charles Henry Buckman b.1905 Lyminge d.1958. Henry Charles was the eldest son of John and Rhoda Hayward.
21 Nov 1913 Western Gazette	More Land for the Government Mr. R.J. Sankey of South Hill, Hastingleigh on the Downs to the North East of Ashford, Kent, has written to Mr. Runciman [President of the Board of Agriculture]offering to give land, free of all cost, together with sufficient fora garden for each, for every cottage which the Government will undertake to build in that parish.	Richard John Sankey.
21 February 1914	EDUCATION AT HOME Mr Long, of Elmsted, was summoned in respect to the non-attendance of his son Edward at school. Mr Marshall, school attendance officer, said that the child had attended 49 times out of a possible sixty. In reply to defendant, he stated that parents were allowed to educate their children at home, providing they satisfied the Education Authority that they had a certificated governess. - Fined 1 shilling and the costs ( 9 shillings 6d)	.
02 Apr 1915 Dover Express	The funeral took place of Mr Isaac Hogben of 144 Clarendon Street, on Monday in the same grave as his late wife in St. James' Cemetery, the Rev. W.W. Goldstraw officiating. The deceased was formerly a well known tradesman carrying on for many years a milk business at 41 Trevanion Street and in his younger days was a well known resident of Hastingleigh near Ashford. The deceased died on March 16th at the age of 79 years. The mourners were as follows: Mr and Mrs Goodban (daughter and son in law), Miss Norah Goodban (granddaughter), Mr W Rains (brother in law) and Mr T Hogben (nephew), Miss Rosa Hogben (niece of Brabourne). Floral tributes were from grand-daughter May, grand-children Ivy and Will, Dolly, Nellie, Olga, George, Harry, Hilda and baby Vera.	Son of William Hogben and Susannah Barman
15 July 1916	[Appeal for Exemption from military service of Alf Southen] A BREEZE - A scene was provided by an employer in the next case, who resented the questioning to which he was subjected, and left the box and the court with a "Good day, Gentlemen," but was fetched back by his solicitor, Mr. A.K. Mowll, and apologised to Lord Harris for his conduct. In this case Mr. Frank Revell, of Maxted Street Farm, Stelling, appealed for Alfred Southen (25) unattested, living at Hastingleigh, his ploughman. The question of the extent to which Mr. Revell cultivated his land was raised, and when asked for details he at first said he did not keep any account. He was a man who worked from daylight to dark. - Eventually Mr Mowll said he had got from appellant the figures asked for. He got ten tons of oats and ten tons of wheat last year, and he reckoned his wheat would produce six quarters to the acre. - Mr Rice (Representative of the Board of Agriculture) "That is not at all a bad crop for last year." - The appeal was allowed, and the local Tribunal instructed to grant three months conditional exemption, the certificate not to be renewable except by leave of that Court.	Alf Southen did join the machine gun corps and survived the war. He is named on the Hastingleigh Roll of Honour.
19 Jan 1917 Dover Express	It is announced that the Rev. C.W.B. Cobbe, Curate of Elham, has been nominated by the Archbishop of Canterbury to the benefice of Elmsted with Hastingleigh Kent. The Rev. C.W.B. Cobbe was Curate for several years during the rectorate of the late Rev. S.F. Green.	.
04 Nov 1921 Dover Express	SHORTAGE OF WATER Although the rains of the past few days have been very welcome, the shortage of water is still acutely felt at Hastingleigh, Elmsted and the neighbouring villages. The little village of Hastingleigh is as badly off as it can possibly be, for the few wells in the neighbourhood have been dry for a long time. The only supply available is from springs at West Brabourne, or Bull Town, and at Elmsted practically all the wells are dry. Until a week ago Mr Carpenter of Dean Farm kept the residents in his neighbourhood well supplied, many coming from Stelling Minnis for water. At Stelling Minnis the wells although 400 feet deep, are dry, yet the one at Dean Farm is only about 120 feet deep. As much as 1,500 gallons a day was taken from this well until a week or so ago, when Mr Carpenter had to call a halt through fear of the water giving out. Since this supply has been stopped the residents have had to go to Stowting a distance of 4 miles, for their supply, whilst others get water from Canterbury by motor, for which they are charged 25 to 30 shillings for four hundred gallons.	.
01 March 1924	WAR PENSIONS COMMITTEE The bi-monthly general meeting of the Folkestone, Ashford and District War Pensions Committee was held at Ashford on February 19th....Mr Wills Taylor brought forward a proposal from the Administrative Department of the Ministry of Pensions for the amalgamation of the staffs of the Folkestone, Ashford and District area, and the Canterbury and Faversham area. He fully explained the result of the change whereby it was expected efficiency and economy would be effected. After a long discussion and an assurance that the pensioners would not suffer, the proposal was agreed to. Approval was given to the appointment of Colonel and Mrs Irby as volunteer workers for the Elmsted and Hastingleigh districs.	.
29 March 1924	ON THE TELEPHONE - NEW SUBSCRIBERS The following is a list of new subscribers in the Canterbury Telephone District for the week ending March 15: Mrs M Bliss, Bacque Close, Hastingleigh - Wye 20X W. Forge, Little Coombe, Hastingleigh - Wye 20Y W.L. Fisher, Court Lodge, Hastingleigh - Wye 23Y Lieut-Col L.P. Irby, Evington place, Hastingleigh - Wye 23X W. Miskin, Bodsham Lodge, near Hastingleigh - Wye 19	.
03 April 1926	A case against John Back of the George Inn, Stone Street for serving alcohol outside licensing hours. Witnesses include Norman Wood butcher of Petham, Harold B. Hukins and Leslie Godden bakers at Tappendens Bakery, Hastingleigh.	[Click to see article]
16 Sep 1927 Dover Express	12th INFANTRY BRIGADE CROSS HYTHE CANAL On Monday, the 12th Infantry Brigade from Dover were engaged in operations around the Hythe Military Canal in the neighbourhood of Aldington. A force under Major G.E. Tallents, of the Lancashire Fusilliers consiting of a squadron of the 11th Hussars, 3rd Field battery and a field company of the Royal Engineers, with the 2nd Beds and Herts Regiment, and the 1st Lancashire fusilliers, advanced over the Hythe Canal from Dymchurch, where they were supposed to have landed to raid a gas factory at Hastingleigh. The 1st Kings own Yorkshire Light Infantry and a field battery were opposed to them under Colonel Thorpe of the KOYLI. The advance on Monday evening reached the main railway line near Smeeth Station. The operations continued during the night when the defending force were reinforced from Canterbury, and the 12th Infantry Brigade then began a retreat, which continued during Tuesday, in the direction of their camp. They had been on the move for 36 hours.	.
22 September 1928	Case against a bus driver, in court, for crashing in to a car driven by Mrs Margaret Bliss, of Court Lodge Cottages, Hastingleigh.	[Click to see article]
28 Dec 1928 Dover Express	Motor Cycle Accident: About 9.30pm on Friday, an extremely foggy night, a collision occured in the New Dover Road, Canterbury, between a pony and cart, being driven by Mr. E. Pilcher of Hastingleigh and a motor-cycle being ridden by Mr. G Stannard, of Hillside Cottages, Ratling, Adisham whowas carrying Miss Dorothy Piercy of Chapel Lane Adisham on the pillion seat. As a result of the impact Mr. Pilcher was thrown from the trap and the motor cyclist and the lasy rider were also thrown. Mr Pilcher was uninjured, but Mr Stannard sustained a bruised right arm and Miss Piercy a bruised left arm and leg. The offside shaft of the trap was broken and the motor-cycle damaged.	Edward Pilcher, buried at Hastingleigh in 1947 .
15 April 1933	ON THE TELEPHONE New Subscribers recently connected in the Canterbury Telephone District are as follows: Elmsted 28 - G. Ogilvie, Virgo Farm House, Hastingleigh, Ashford. [Vigo Farm]	.
25 November 1933	ALLEGED ATTACK ON FARMER - GIPSY COMMITTED FOR TRIAL A meeting in a wood between a farmer and a caravan dweller was described at Ashford Petty Sessions on Thursday when Frederick Cooper (24) of no fixed abode, was charged with unlawfully wounding Mr R.P. Meneer, of South Hill, Hastingleigh. Cooper was committed for trial at the next Lewes Assizes Mr Meneer, in evidence, described the meeting in Partridge Wood, Hastingleigh and the alleged attack on him which, he said, occured on November 14th at 3.30pm. Cooper appeared on remand from a previous court.	.
13 Juy 1935	ON THE TELEPHONE - New subscribers recently connected in the Canterbury Telephone district are as follows. Elmsted 55 - Miss E.M. Mawer, The School House, Elmsted.	.
07 December 1935	WELFARE CENTRE The County Council has taken over the Brabourne Infant Welfare Centre. At present there is a roll of 37 babies who come from Brabourne, Smeeth, Stowting, Elmsted and Hastingleigh. The mothers and babies from the last named villages are conveyed by bus.	.
17 October 1941	MOTOR CYCLIST INJURED A collision occured on the cross-roads at the west of Willow Woods, Studdale at 2.20pm on Monday, between a lorry owned by the Stonegate and South Eastern Farmers Co-operative Society Ltd, and driven by William Jackson, Morelands, Hastingleigh which was going from Little Mongeham towards the Barville cross-roads, and a motor cycle which was proceeding in the same direction as the lorry. The motor cyclist, Mr. Joseph Graham, sustained a fracture of the left femur and right wrist and facial abraisions, and his brother Mr. Albert Henry Graham of St. Richard's Road, Great Mongeham, sho was riding pillion, sustained injuries to the left foot and right knee. They were both taken to Waldershare Hospital, and detained.	.
Jan 1944 and Mar 1944	Two newspaper articles, the first relating to George Jackson of Moorlands, Hastingleigh and the second is Samuel D.F. Harwood or Wye, and involves a trip to Hastingleigh.	.
04 November 1944	Women's Institute Meeting... The meeting approved a resolution proposed by Mrs Mason, for Hastingleigh with Elmsted, and seconded by Milstead and Kingsdown, calling upon the Ministry of Supply to ensure that sufficient spare parts of oil stoves and lamps were available in rural areas not served by electricity or gas. Instances were quoted of the hardship and inconvenience caused by the difficulty in replacing worn parts.	.
11 May 1946	HERNE BAY - HEADMISTRESS RETIRES Miss M. Curling LL.A. , who has been headmistress of the Girls County Primary School since 1932, has retired on account of ill health. She was formerly at Elmsted and Hastingleigh, and succeeded at Herne Bay her sister then Miss M.S. Curling MA. , now Mrs W.R. Lloyd.	Miss Curling is listed as one of the teachers at Bodsham School.
05 March 1948	AGRICULTURAL DISCUSSION GROUPS The Elmsted and Hastingleigh Branch have arranged to hold a working demonstration of a new tractor using a large variety of self attached tools and many improved farm implements, on Monday, 8th March 1948 commencing 1pm at New Barn Farm, Hastingleigh kindly loaned by Mr. R.D. Shearer. A discussion on the demonstration will be held in the evening at the Bowl Inn, Hastingleigh at 7.30ppm. All interested are welcome to attend.	New Barn Farm was part owned by Mr Shearer, and Mr Thomas H. Young who occupied the farm.
2011	A man's body was discovered in Partridge Wood, after Police received evidence from a man arrested in London. The press reported that the body had lain there for up to 6 years. Partridge wood is an ancient wood in the Parish. Update July 4th 2011 : Thomas Puxty aged 30, admitted at the Old Bailey to burying the body of Lee Clement aged 60 between March 2006 and March 2011. He denies murder.	Thomas Puxty was convicted of murder and jailed for 28 years. (click) 7 June 2012-In a subsequent turn of events, Thomas Puxty had his sentence reduced by 2 years following the revellation that he had been turned away by the police twice, after trying to confess. (click)
30 Sep 2012	Three Romanian Nationals, Petru Ilian Lascar, Christian Vasile Tataru and Georgei Nicoara were each sentenced to neary 5 years in prison for a serious of nearly 40 house burglaries, netting them in excess of 45,000 pounds worth of stolen property. They were operating out of a house in Molash and evaded capture for nearly 5 months, raiding homes in Ashford, Bethersden, Bilting, Blean, Boughton Aluph, Boughton Lees, Challock, Chilham, Godmersham, Hastingleigh, Mersham, Romney Marsh, Sheldwich, Smeeth and Wye.	.
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