Policing Kingsclere in the 19th Century

 

Superintendent Thomas Fey

31.07.1862 – 18.08.1875

Research by Andrew Reid

Thomas FEY joined the Force on the 22nd February , 1845, as Constable 49. He was a 23 year old single man, a butcher from Burley, Hampshire. On 13th March, 1845, he was posted to work from Kingsclere, as Constable 3rd Class, on 28th July, 1846, he was promoted to Constable 2nd Class.

He remained at Kingsclere until April 1847, when he was posted to Fareham. On 26th July, 1847, he was promoted to Constable 1st Class. On 16th July, 1849, he was promoted to the rank of Sergeant. In 1849 he was posted to work at Droxford.

On April 26th, 1850 he was posted again this time to Petersfield, three days later he was promoted to 3rd Class Superintendent in charge of the Petersfield Division, gaining promotion in situe to 2nd Class Superintendent in April 1859.

On 31st July, 1862, Mr. Fey was posted back to take charge of the Kingsclere Division, gaining promotion to 1st Class Superintendent on August 16th 1867. He remained at Kingsclere for thirteen years. He was then posted as officer in charge of the Andover Division on August 18th , 1875. Eight months later, on 12th April, 1876; he was posted to the Force Headquarters at Winchester.

On 13th January, 1881, he retired from the Force having completed thirty-six years service, almost half at Kingsclere. His character and ability being recorded as ‘Exemplary’, he was superannuated on a sum off £101. 7.9. per year.

On Tuesday June 7th 1864, the Government Inspector visited the division coming from Basingstoke at 11.15 by carriage and leaving at 12.15 to go to inspect Andover, most inspections of the Division were held at Whitchurch Police Station as the Railway Station was nearer and transport was more available.

Bread was frequently checked, it would be purchased by Policemen in plain clothes, usually from another area, as the bakers would not know who he was. The item would then be taken to the officer appointed as an Inspector under the Weights and Measures Act and weighed. If any item was found to be underweight or incorrect, court action usually followed, as demonstrated in the court reports from the Newbury Weekly News of July and August 1867, we read of the following cases;

Before Edmund Arbuthnot, William Fox, and W.H. Kingsmill, Kingsclere Petty Sessions, held on Friday July 1867.

George Maslin, appeared to summons charged by Supt. Fey with having on 22nd July, sold bread otherwise than by weight. P.C. Rogers said that on the 22nd inst., he purchased a loaf of bread of Mrs. Maslin at the shop. He took it to Mr. Supt. Fey who weighed it in his presence, and which was short of the standard weight. Mr. Fey corroborated the constable ‘s statement.

Mr. King from the office of Mr. Cave, Newbury, addressed the Bench on defendant’s behalf and argued that defendant was not liable as his wife had sold the bread, but the Bench considered otherwise, and fined him in the normal penalty of 6d. with 8/6 costs, which was paid.

Thomas Watts was also charged with on the 22nd July, inst., at East Woodhay, sold a loaf of bread to P.C. Gamble, he not being provided with weights and scales, according to statute. P.C. Gamble stated that he bought the loaf of the defendant on the 23rd, July, and took it to Supt. Fey, who weighed it and found it short. Supt. Fey corroborated this statement. There was a second charge against this defendant but it was entered into. The Bench imposed a fine of 6d with 8/6 costs. The money was paid.

Thomas Tanner was charged with a similar offence and P.C. Roger proved he bought a loaf of bread at Mr. Tanner’s shop on the 22nd July, which was found to be short of the standard weight, and was fined 6d with 8/6 costs. The money was paid.

John Swait, baker at Tan house, Kingsclere, was also charged on the information of Mr. Fey, with having sold a loaf of bread otherwise than by weight P.C. Kearl stated that he went to defendant’s shop on the 23rd July, and asked for a loaf of bread.

He was supplied by the same defendant, but it was not by weight. When he was leaving the shop the defendant ascertained that he was a policeman, and asked him f he should weigh the bread. The P.C. replied “No thank you”. Mr. Fey stated that the loaf was short, and he was fined 6d with 8/6 costs, which was paid.

Kingsclere Petty Sessions, held on Friday August 30th, 1867, before Edmund Arbuthnot and William Fox, Esqrs,.

Thomas Crimble, of Overton, baker, appeared to a summons charging him with selling bread otherwise than by weight. P.C. 71 stated that he went to defendants shop and asked for a 41b. loaf and defendant served him but did not weigh it.

He brought the loaf to his Superintendent. Mr. Fey, said that the loaf in question was three ounces over weight when brought to him: he summoned the defendant for not complying with the statute in neglecting to weigh his bread on delivery. The Bench decided to dismiss the case but told the defendant that he must in future weigh his bread in delivery.

Mrs. Charlotte Corpe was charged on the information of Mr. Supt. Fey, with selling bread without weighing it at the time of sale. P.C. 71 stated that he went to defendants shop and asked for a quart loaf which was, supplied him, but without being weighed.

He took it to his Superintendent, who weighed it and found it short weight. Defendant said she did not bake the bread herself but was supplied by another baker, and could not therefore be responsible for the weight. The Bench, however, told her different, and fined her in the penalty of 1s. 6d., with 8s. 6d. cost. The money was paid.

George Wayt was also charged with selling bread otherwise than by weight. This case having been proved, the Bench asked the defendant what he had to say to the charge. He replied that he did not sell the loaf to the constable, and no policeman had been to the shop for bread The loaf in question was a crusty one and would be considered as fancy bread.

The Chairmen told him that that was a fancy of his own, and he must weigh his bread on delivery, whether crusty or not. Fined 11s. 6d., and 8s. 6d. cost. The money was paid. Supt. Fey informed the Bench that although several bakers had lately been fined for selling bread without weighing it, they did not adhere to the caution given them, and still continued the practice. The magistrates told the superintendent to summon them again, and they might get the full penalty inflicted next time.

Other items, usually concerning measures, would be sent to the Public Analyst, again if found incorrect court action would follow.

In August 1866, all members of the Force were issued with leather leggings for protection against the weather, although they were only to be worn between November 1st and March 3lst, and were to last no longer than three years. (H1/l HRO)

General Order dated March 21st, 1867, reports that Constables are to wear boots with laces and black eyelets.

We can gain an example of the type of work undertaken by members of the Kingsclere Division in the 1860’s and 1870’s, through reports of the Court Sittings

Kingsclere Petty Sessions, held Friday February 22nd, 1867 – Before W.H.C. Plowden, W Fox, and W.H. Kingsmill, Esquires.

John Mitchell, an old man in the employ of Mr. J. Dodd of Overton, was charged by P.C. 105, Alexander, with having on Sunday, the 10th of February, trespassed and set traps for the purpose of catching conies upon land in the occupation of Mr. A. Budd, Overton, the property of Captain Bridges, he not having leave so to do.

The old man upon being asked whether he was guilty or not, made a strong effort to cry, and said “I s ‘pose I be.” P.C. Alexander said, on Sunday, the 10th instant, about 3 o ‘clock, p.m., he was on the road leading from Overton to Kingsclere, when he saw the defendant in a field and watched him, saw him stoop down and set a rabbit trap; the old man’s sight not being very good enabled him to get with 30 yards of him without being seen. He went to the spot and there found the trap produced by him and also another trap within a short distance.

P.C. 105 Alexander wished to state to the bench that the defendant being an old man it was the wish of Captain Bridges that the bench would be lenient to him. The Chairman gave the old man a reprimand telling him he ought to be better employed, particularly on a Sunday. The bench taking into consideration his age and the recommendation of Captain Bridges, he would inflict a fine of £1 on him including costs. The old man thanked the good gentlemen for being so kind to him letting him off so cheap, and promised to pay the policeman the same day, upon which the bench allowed him to go.

George May and Alfred Allen, two boys from Greenham, were charged by P.C. 88 Davies, of the Berks Constabulary with having on the 17th February, in company with other boys, been in a swede field and done certain damage to the Swedes, the property of James Vince, Itchinswell.

P.C. Davies stated he was on duty on Sunday, the 17th February, near Knightsbridge, where the water divides the two counties of Hants and Berks, when he saw the defendants with other boys in Mr. Vince’s field pulling up Swedes and putting them into a handkerchief he pursued them and caught them, and took from them the Swedes and handkerchief then produced, namely five Swedes valued 2d.

The bench enquired what the boys ages were, when their mothers, who were present, said one was 13, the other 15 years old. Mr. Vince told the bench that he did not wish to be too severe with them but he wished to put a stop to the nuisance of a lot of boys running over his farm and doing damage, especially on Sunday. The Chairman gave the boys a reprimand and fined them one shilling and costs each, which was paid.

Whitway Petty Sessions, held Tuesday April 23rd , 1867, before Wm Fox. Esp.

Edward Bull, tramp, charged with setting fire to a rick of straw, belonging Benjamin Beckingham, of Ash, on the 13th of April. It appeared that the prisoner and a ‘Pal’ of his, Northcote Bone, had been locked up for four days at Ash and during incarceration Bone “split” upon the prisoner.

The latter was committed for time, and Bone was also detained in custody, being unable to procure surety for his appearance as a witness. Henry Guy, a man whose appearance fully bore out his surname, was committed for 14 days, for begging at the Reverend R. Pole ‘s, at Wolverton. The prisoner was apprehended by PC Harmsworth, who deserves great credit for dealing with a man greatly his superior in point of size. The prisoner during his lock up had torn his clothes to pieces, and had to be supplied with fresh garments from the workhouse.

Kingsclere Petty Sessions, Friday April 26th, 1867 – Before F. Arbuthnot, Wm Fox, W Kingsmill Esqs.

James Chappell, Emanuel Woolfe, Richard Clinch, – were charged with allowing their cattle to stray on the highway for the purpose of pasture. PC Hinton proved the case, and the Chair told the defendants that the bench did not wish to fine them the full amount, but to let them know that they must not turn their cattle out on the roads. The Bench would impose a penalty of 6s each and expenses, which will be 5s in each case. Allowed 14 days for payment.

Kingsclere Petty Sessions held on Friday May 2lst 1867 – Before William Fox Esq.

(Held at the Union Workhouse).

William Strout and Arthur Hopkins, of Inkpen, were brought up under remand charged with stealing a great coat and bag, value is 2d., at Eastwick, Hants., the property of Albert Carter, one of Mr. Kimber ‘s carter boys. Albert Carter stated that on Saturday last he was at work in Mr. Kimber ‘s field, and he put his great coat on the hedge, and some time afterwards he missed it.

He told his master of it, who gave information to the police. The two prisoners were working at ash burning near where the coat was placed. The coat now produced by the police was the one so lost. Supt. Fey said that on Saturday, from information he received, he went to Inkpen in pursuit of the prisoners; he overtook them and found the greatcoat and bag now produced in the possession of William Stout. He apprehended both prisoners and charged them with stealing the great coat. Arthur Hopkins was discharged with a caution, and the old man Strout remanded.

Charles Hensler, of Basingstoke, was brought up under remand with obtaining goods of the value of six-pence under false pretences from William Pook, junior, of the George and Horn, Kingsclere. Harry Dodd, tailor, of Kingsclere, stated that on Wednesday last he was at the George and Horn, between the hours of 12 and 2 in the afternoon, when the prisoner came in and asked of Daniel Englefield had been there, and of he had gone to Basingstoke.

Witness replied that he did not know, but would ask Mrs. Pook, the landlady. Prisoner then said that Mr. Daniel Englefield had told him to go to the Horn and get some beer, and he would pay for it. He asked the prisoner his name, he replied Hensler, and that it would be alright. He then let him have a pint of ale, and two pennyworth of bread and cheese.

Ann Brazier Pook wife of William Pook stated that on Wednesday last, Harry Dodd was assisting in waiting during her husband’s absence and he came to her and asked if he should let the prisoner have the beer and bread and cheese. She told him to let him have it as it would no doubt be alright. She afterwards let the prisoner have another pint of ale, which he said Mr. Englefield would pay for.

Mr. Daniel Englefield said that he had known the prisoner for many years, but he had not seen him for a long time till he saw him in custody. He had never told prisoner to get any goods in his name. Prisoner when asked if he had anything to say, observed that he was very sorry for what he had done, but he did it from want. Committed for trial at the next quarter sessions at Winchester.

Harriet Baggs was brought up and charged with stealing a hat and feather, the properly of Fowler, Esq., in whose service she had been living. The magistrates after hearing evidence of Mrs. Fowler and Mr. Supt. Fey, sentenced prisoner to one month in Winchester gaol, she wishing to have the case settled without going before a jury.

Thomas Hiles was summoned by Thomas Hiscock for assaulting him on the 24th inst., at Baughurst. Both parties were servants of Mr. Charles Parrit, of Ham-farm, Baughurst. After hearing the evidence of Hiscock and Mr. Stanbridge the magistrates dismissed the case.

Thomas Jacob, beer-shop keeper, of Tadley, was charged with keeping his house open for the sale of beer on Sunday morning April Mr. King appeared for defendant, and after hearing the evidence of P.C. Hinton, the Bench dismissed the case, there not being sufficient proof.

Joseph Butler, servant to Mr. Hounsell, of Fair Oak, Kingsclere, was summoned by Mr. Daniel Englefield, woodman to Lord Bolton, for using wires for the purpose of catching hares, on the 4th Inst., on lands in the occupation of Mr. R. Munday. The Bench considered that Mr. Englefield was not near enough to the defendant to identify him, and accordingly dismissed the case.

William Jarvis, of East Woodhay, was summoned for stealing a piece of oak lop-wood, the property of Mr. Foster, at Woodhay. The defendant was at work stripping for Mr. D. Pope, on Mr. Foster’s estate, and he with several others took home a shoulder stick, as is the usual practice; but it appeared that the stick in question was cut from Mr. Foster’s timber instead of Mr. Pope ‘s, and thus a mistake occurred.

The defendant said that he did take the stick, but he did not know that it belonged to Mr. Foster; he was very sorry for it. The Bench considered that he did not take the wood with a felonious intent, and therefore dismissed the case.

Dinah Belcher, of Burghclere, was brought up in the custody of Supt. Fey, charged with stealing two half-crowns, the property of Daniel Nightingale. (Remanded).

Kingsclere Petty Sessions Friday June 28th. 1867 Before Wm Fox. Esq.

Ann Smith and Caroline Dry, two married women residing in The Dell, Kingsclere, were charged with damaging grass, the property of the Misses Holding of Elm Grove, Kingsclere. From the evidence it appeared that defendants had been in the habit of trespassing on the land for the purpose of cutting the grass under the hedges, and in this case were cautioned by Mr. James Seward, not to cut the grass, which caution they did not observe.

The case was proved by PC 16 Kearl and the magistrate told the defendants that they had subjected themselves to be severally punished. He would be lenient with them this time, but hoped it will be a caution to others. Ordered to pay 6s 6d each including costs. Allowed a week for payment.

Charles Lewis was charged with disregarding the lawful orders of his master, Mr. Wm Foster, of Overton Hants, defendant being a hired servant in husbandry. it came out in evidence that his master ordered him to take some hay on the 27th June, which he refused to do. Ordered to return to his work and to pay 8s 6d., to be deducted out of his wages.

Kingsclere Petty Sessions, held on Before William Fox. W.H. C. Plowden, W.H. Kingsmill, Esqrs., and the Rev T. G. Hodgson.

Mary Ann Martin, a sullen looking girl who said her age was 14 years, was charged with stealing 3s 4d the money of Mr. Win. Drake, brewer, Kingsclere. Mr. Drake had a box fixed upon his premises for receiving money which the sale of the yeast produced Having missed some of its contents from time to time a communication was made to Supt. Fey, and a policeman was placed in concealment on the morning in question.

He had not to remain long before the prisoner came up, took some money laying upon it, and shook the contents into her lap. She was at once taken into custody, the money found upon her, and at her house the police discovered a money box, with some money inside, but this it was alleged, she had earned by going on errands. The Bench committed her to prison for 14 days.

Job Rawlins, ash gatherer, of Tadley, was summoned for leaving his horse and cart on the highway at Baughurst, causing an obstruction. Ordered to pay 10s, which was paid.

Banks Hutchins, aged 14 years, who had on two other occasions been before the bench for petty thefts, was charged with stealing a ferret, value 2s 6d, the property of Alfred Lambden, of Overton. The prosecutor lost the ferret on the 22nd ; the next day he heard that prisoner had sold a ferret to an uncle (whose name is also Hutchins, but is distinguished by the nickname of “Nosy”, “) and immediately informed the police.

The ferret so sold was identified, and prisoner was sentenced to 14 days at Winchester, which he told the justices he “could do on his head.” The uncle, it appears, after buying the ferret for 2s and a pint of beer sold it again for 3s., he was cautioned by the Bench and told that he had had a very narrow escape.

Kingsclere Petty Sessions, held on Friday September 27th, 1867,

Drunk at Ecchinswell

Thomas Euston and James Hankin appeared to summons, charged by P.C. Rogers with being drunk and riotous at Ecchinswell on Sunday evening Sept. 15th Fined 10s., with 7s. 6d. expenses. The money was paid.

Drunkenness at Kingsclere

Charles Hussy and Henry Hussy, of Ecchinswell, were charged by P.C. Rogers with being drunk and riotous at Kingsclere, on Sunday evening, Sept. 22nd Fined l0s., with 7s. 6d. cost. The money was paid.

Caught at this Little Game

George Belcher, of Burghclere, was summonsed by Elijah Smith, game keeper to the Earl of Carnarvon, for setting wires to catch hares on lands belonging to his lordship. The defendant did not appear. P.C. Gould proved the service of summons, and the Bench decided to hear the case in his absence. Henry Adams, game keeper, on oath said that on Saturday last he found some wires set in a meadow, and on Sunday morning about four o ‘clock he went to watch them. About six o ‘clock the defendant came and set up one of the wires which had been knocked down. Witness spoke to him, and said, “That’s you, is it Belcher? and Belcher replied “Don ‘t say anything about it.” Fined £3, with 7s. 6d costs, or two months in Winchester gaol. A warrant was made out for his committal.

Master and Man

Mr. A. Whistler, of Cannon-heath, Kingsclere, was summoned by William Cassell, he being a hired servant in husbandry to the said Mr. Whistler. Cassell stated that he hired himself to Mr. Whistler at Michaelmas last, to serve him for a year, and to receive weekly wages at the rate of 6s. per week and to have £4 extra for the harvest; he went to his work on the morning of the 11th instant, at about eight o ‘clock and his master told him to go about his business. He accordingly left his employ, and had since worked for Mr. Flower. He now made a claim on Mr. Whistler for £4 harvest money. Mr. Whistler told the Bench that Cassell had been a very bad servant, and on several occasions had absented himself from his work which had put him to great inconvenience. The Bench considered that Mr. Whistler ought to have proceeded against him at the time, and not discharged him. As both appeared to be at fault, they ordered him to pay Cassell £3, with 7s. 6d. costs. The money was paid.

Whitway Petty Sessions, held on Tuesday December 10th, 1867. Before E. Arbuthnot. Esq.. (in the chair), and W.H. Kingsmill. Esq.

An order or removal was obtained to remove Ann Booth and one child from Kingsclere to Andover Union.

A Poaching Case

William Sims and Charles Hunt were brought up by Superintendent Fey, of Kingsclere, charged with having on the 4th inst., two hares in their possession, on the turnpike road Supt. Fey saw the men coming along the road about 12 o’ clock in the day, and having suspicion, searched them, and found the two hares produced; they were carrying them in a bag which was also produced He (Supt. Fey) took the hares from the men, and summoned them before the Bench.

Hunt, in his defence, stated that he was out of employ, and was passing along the road and saw the two hares lying and picked them up; but could not give a clear statement as to whereabouts. Sims made a similar statement to Hunt. Fined £2 each, including costs, or go to gaol one month. Allowed a fortnight to pay it in. 2lst February, at Whitway.

It appeared that the prosecutor and prisoner were with several others drinking on the night in question at the Carnarvon Arms, Whitway. About half-past eleven they left and on the road a row began, prosecutor getting stabbed by prisoner in the shoulder. P.C. Gould produced the knife and the clothes which were covered with blood Dr. Thomson, of East Woodhay, said that the wound was caused by such a knife as that produced, and if the blow had been an inch higher the knife would have entered the lung and might have caused death. Committed to the Quarter Sessions for trial.

Robert Dennis, 14, an incorrigible, was brought up under remand, charged with stealing a florin, a sixpence, a piece of bread, and a pair of gloves, from the dwelling house of Harriett Dennis, of Hannington, on the 22nd February. Fanny Watts stated that she saw the money placed in a cup in the house of H. Dennis, and that afterward she saw prisoner with it in his possession; she took it away from him, and gave information to the police.

P.C. Hinton apprehended prisoner at Oakley. Prisoner pleaded guilty, and it appearing that he had before been committed for theft, the magistrates ordered him to be sent to Winchester gaol for 3 months, and to be once whipped.

William Hawkins was brought up under remand, charged with stealing a smock frock, the property of Jane Smallbone, of Whitchurch. Prosecutrix stated she kept a beer-house in Whitchurch, and took in lodgers. Prisoner came to her house to lodge on 6th of February, and the day after leaving, she missed the smock frock now produced by Supt. Fey. Prisoner was apprehended by P.C. Haddon with the smock in his possession. He pleaded not guilty but the Bench had a deferent opinion and ordered him to be committed to prison for 14 days hard labour.

Thomas Scull, of Ashmansworth, appeared to answer a summons charged with committing a trespass on the lands of Allan Heath, Esq., on the 15th February. Fined £1 including costs.

Jane Bell, of Overton, was charged with assaulting Mary Cozens, of the same place. Case dismissed

Henry Kewell, of Kingsclere, charged with stealing a quantity of straw from James Vince, was committed for 14 days.

Caroline Rabbits, of East Woodhay, was charged with stealing a cotton dress, the property of Elizabeth Griffith, of Kingsclere. Committed for one month.

Kingsclere Petty Sessions held on Friday March 27th, 1868. Before W Fox & W.H. Kingsmill. Esqrs.

An Old Hand and a Young One

Charles Wiltshire and Charles Burgiss, labourers, of Overton, appeared to summonses charged with having, on the 21st March, trespassed upon land in the parish of Overton, the property of Capt. Brydges, in search of coneys. Thomas Sweetzer said: I am a gamekeeper to Capt. Brydges. On the afternoon of the above date I saw the defendants ferreting in the bank, and saw Wiltshire take five rabbits from a hole, Burgiss being with him.

As soon as they saw me they bolted I ran after Wiltshire whom I know to be an old hand, and on catching him, and asking for the rabbits he had got, he told me to stand off and knocked me down. On the policeman coming he said he would give up the rabbits, and took six young rabbits and three nets from a bag Burgiss having a ferret also. P.C. Harmswood corroborated the latter part of the keepers evidence, and further stated that he had Wiltshire, in November last, for the same sort of thing and he was fined £2 (£92.23),

The Bench convicted, and fined £2.6s.6d. (£107.79p) including costs. Burgiss not having been caught before, was fined £1 (£46. l2p) including costs.

A Vagrant

George Perry, aged 18, was charged with having destroyed his own clothes in the trampward at Kingsclere Union, on this Friday morning having been admitted the evening previous, and was sentenced to 21 days hard labour. It appears quite time some more stringent measures were used with such fellows, stated a magistrate.

Mr. Thomas Neate, farmer, applied for a warrant against William Hawkins, for misbehaviour in his service, which was granted.

Whitway Petty Sessions, held on Tuesday May 12th 1868, before E. Arbuthnot, Es p., the Rev. T.D. Hodgson, and WH. Kingsmill. Esq.

George Leigh, appeared to summons, charged with misconduct in service, he being hired to Mr. Richard Kimber, of Eastwick, as under carter. Alexander Kimber proved that defendant was hired to his father on the October last, and entered his service, but refused to obey his orders. Ordered to find security to the amount of L5, (£230.58p) and to pay the costs 8/6, (£9.60p) and to return to his work, or in default a warrant would be issued.

Mr. Edward Rickets, of Faccombe, appeared to prosecute James Jenner and Richard Packer, for absconding from his service on the 24th April last. Neither of the defendants appeared P.C. Gamble proved service of summons, he having left he having left the same at the last place of abode of Richard Packer, but the constable could not prove a legal service on Jenner, and a warrant was refused, but granted against Packer.

Alfred Cook was summoned for assaulting Walter Hillier, a carter boy working for Mr. James Bradfleld, of Kingsclere. Defendant threw a piece of hard dirt and struck the boy on the forehead. Fined 6d. and 7/6 costs, which was paid.

Isaac Alder, a boy, was charged with setting fire to a straw rick, the property of Mr. F. F. Frampton, of Crux Easton. P.C. Riggs said he apprehended the boy and charged him with the offence. The boy stated that he did it by accident, he was sitting near the straw and struck a Lucifer match which fell on the straw, and set it on fire; he tried to put it out, but could not do so, burning his clothes in the effort.

The Bench reprimanded and told him to be careful for the future how he used matches, and then discharged him.

A warrant was issued to eject Edward Wheeler, he being in possession of a cottage belonging to Mr. James Fermor, of Ashmansworth. Proof of service of notice was produced by Mr. Fermor.

Whitway Petty Sessions held on Tuesday May 25th. 1868, before Wm Fox, Esq.

William Moss brought up in custody, charged with begging on the 24th inst, at Kingsclere. P.C. 46 Kearl said that he was on duty in Kingsclere on Sunday last in plain clothes. The prisoner came to him and asked for alms, when he took him into custody and charged him with begging.

The magistrates asked him what he had to say for himself when he stated that he had been at work with a threshing machine lately, but had his clothes stolen from him, and he could not now get employment.

He belonged to Highclere, his mother when he was about four years old, put him down at the Union Workhouse gate at Kingsclere and left him there he was taken into the Union and dragged up there. The magistrates told him that he ought to be better employed than begging and sentenced him to 14 days imprisonment at Winchester.

Petty Sessions, Kingsclere, held Friday July 31st 1868. before Melville Portal, Esp.. Chairman W Fox E. Arbuthnot W.H. Kingsmill and W.H.C. Plowden Esqs.

John Gregory, chimney sweeper, residing in the Dell, Kingsclere, was summoned by Esther, wife of Stephen Holdaway, of the same place, for assaulting her on the 3rd July, at the Bolton Arms Inn, Kingsclere. It appeared to be a public house row, and the magistrates were of the opinion that both parties were at fault, and so dismissed the case.

Richard Hull, of East Woodhay, a farmer, was summoned by Charles Breadman, of Highclere, Hayward, for allowing one colt to stray on a certain highway leading from Highclere to Burghclere, on the 18th June last. Prosecutor stated that he saw the colt straying on the above named-day and impounded it. He did not know who it belonged to, and kept it in the pound for 3 days; hearing then that it belonged to Mr. Hull, and on going to him demanded 5/6, which Mr. Hull refused to pay.

Mr. Hull in his defence, stated that the colt was turned out in Highclere-park to feed, and he did not know it was strayed. There had been parties in the park who had no doubt led the colt out. He offered to pay the Hayward fee of 1s. for impounding and the expenses of the hay, supplied whilst in the pound, which the Hayward refused to take.

The colt had been kept in the pound for 3 days in the hot sun without having sufficient water, and it was injured by it. Case dismissed.

John Higgs was summoned by Alice Smith, of Kingsclere-dell, with assaulting her on Sunday evening the 12th July at the playground Kingsclere. It appeared that it was announced that “New Wright the burglar was to preach on the above-named evening

On the playground; accordingly a number of persons met together, many with the evident intention of making a row; one of whom known as the “Fenian” appeared to be their captain. When Wright began his address he was interrupted by the “Fenian,” upon which several women made an attack on the latter with the intention of driving him into chalk-dell. In the scuffle, the complainant and her baby were knocked down, and blood flowed from the baby’s mouth; and she positively swore that defendant gave her a blow by the side of the head, which knocked her down. Sarah Oliver and William Hardham partly corroborated her story; the evidence of Alfred Marshall went to show that the defendant was struck by a man named Verney.

The magistrates considered the assault proved, and ordered defendant to pay a fine of 3/6, together with 11/6 costs, or 14 days at Winchester gaol.

Petty Sessions Kingsclere. held on Friday August 28th . 1868. before Melville Portal, Esq., Chairman, Rev. T.D. Hodgson, W.H.C. Plowden. E. Arbuthnot. and William Fox. Esquires.

Thomas Rutley, landlord of the Greyhound Inn, Overton, appeared charged under the information of the police, with keeping his house open for the sale of beer, on Sunday morning the 16th day of August, last, Sergeant Mintrim stated that he went to defendant’s house on the morning in question, and found it open and three men inside.

There was beer in two cups, and appeared as if recently drawn, as the froth was on it. P.C. Harmsworth corroborated the Sergeant’s testimony. Defendant stated that being short of vegetables, a man named Anthony Kersley brought him some French beans, for which his wife gave him a pint of beer, which was the same beer that the police found I the cup; the beer in another cup was put there by a lodger on die previous night. Convicted and fined is with costs.

Samuel Sykes, a gas-fitter, residing at Kingsclere, was summoned by Hophni Clarke, for assaulting him on the 25th instant, at Kingsclere. It appeared from the evidence, that prosecutor and defendant had been before the magistrates on a former occasion, and that there was not the best of feeling existing between them. Sykes had promised Clarke a ‘hot un,’ and the prosecutor swore that he went about in bodily fear.

On the morning in question, the altercation took place about some gas fitting and defendant called prosecutor some nasty names, and put his fist in his face. No blow was struck Defendant made an application for adjournment for a month in order to summon a witness on his behalf which the bench agreed to, but binding him over in his in his own recognizance to keep the peace in the mean time.

Richard Bowman, of Tadley, did not appear to summons for non-payment of poor rate. Mrs. Harmsworth of Tadley, produced a paper signed by her husband who was ill, to the effect that he had served the summons. The magistrates did not consider the service of summons proved; any person could serve a summons legally, but thy must appear before the magistrates to prove service, providing the party did not appear. Case adjourned until next bench day.

An Inquest was held by S. Clark, Esq., coroner, on Tuesday, 25th, on an infant named Parsons, at Canon-heath, Kingsclere, who died rather suddenly.

The child was only four days old, and the evidence of Septimus Edwards, Esq., surgeon, went to show that the child died from natural causes, to which effect a verdict was returned

Petty Sessions Whitway. held on Tuesday March 8th 1870, (Before W. Fox, Esqr., and W.H. Kingsmill Esqr.)

Thomas Winkworth, landlord of the Sun Inn, East Woodhay, answered to a summons for having his house open for sale of beer and spirits on Sunday the 5th of December last. P.C. David Barnes proved going into the house at 35 minutes past 11 o ‘clock on Sunday night, and finding four persons drinking there.

Winkworth having been previously convicted for a similar offence, was fined £2. 7s.6d, including costs. George Lawes, a rough looking character, was brought up by P.S. Mintrim for stealing a pair of boots, a pair of gaiters, a strap, and other articles, from the house of George Cook of Overton, where he had been lodging, and pleaded guilty, was sentenced to six weeks hard labour.

Petty Sessions Kingsclere. held on Friday March 4th, 1870. (Before E. Arbuthnot Esq., Chairman: W Fox, W.H. Kingsmill. and Wyndam S. Portal, Esqrs., and Major Digweed).

William Aldridge and John Aldridge, labourers, of Kingsclere, summoned for being drunk and noisy in Kingsclere on Sunday night, were ordered to pay 10s each, including costs. – Jessie Smith and George Dowling labourers, of Kingsclere, were summoned for damaging a saw-pit, the property of William Spackman, of Plantation Farm.

The charge was admitted; and Mr. Spackman, their master, gave them a good character as labourers, and wished the bench to deal leniently, as they both had families. Ordered to pay 10s each, including costs. – John Richardson, carter to Mr. Hooper, of St Mary Bourne, was charged with stealing 30 lbs of hay, the property of his master.

It appeared that defendant was sent by his master to Whitchurch station for a load of coal, and took a truss of hay with the waggon for the horses. All of it was not consumed, and defendant said that a person named Frampton was to have it, and a man named Leader put it in the stable; but shortly afterwards took it out again, and said that Frampton should not have it, and went and gave information to the police and also to defendant ‘s master.

The Bench considered that there was no proof of defendant selling the hay, and discharged him with a caution.

Any inmate found to have damaged clothing issued to him would be charged and appear before Kingsclere Magistrates, this being as a warning as all clothing had to be replaced and paid for by the Union. On February 20th 1868, a James Turner, a tramp from Liverpool, being a casual pauper was sentenced to one month in prison with hard labour for tearing up his clothing.

Whilst on February 25th, 1868, at Whitway, a magistrate sentenced George Mellow, aged 22, from Coventry, also a casual pauper, to a sentence of 21 days in prison with hard labour.

By March of 1868, it appears the Magistrates were becoming tired of such offences, as on March 27th, 1868, George Perry, aged 18, was charged having destroyed his own clothes in the tramp ward at Kingsclere Union, on that day having been admitted the evening before, the Magistrates, W. Fox and W.H. Kingsmill, Esqrs, sentenced him to 21 days in prison with hard labour, adding, “It appears quite time that more stringent measures were used with such fellows”.

By the middle of the 1860’s Policemen had the authority to authorise food to be given to the poor as well as shelter.

Although life in the workhouse was hard, on occasions events were organised for the children of the inmates. On August 6th 1868, the Newbury Weekly News reported:

Workhouse Treat – Through the kindness of W. Fox, Esq., of Adbury-lodge, chairman of the Board of Guardians, the workhouse children, with the master, matron, and a schoolmistress, on Wednesday last, were given a treat. A dinner was provided at two-o ‘clock, in the hail at Adbury-lodge, amusements in the park were indulged in, and Mrs. Fox and the Misses Fox gave each child a suitable toy. Tea followed at six o ‘clock, and each was returned home highly pleased with the treat.

In 1870 The Pedlars Act was passed, which also had a considerable effect on the Police. Vagrancy was a major problem throughout the Country; in neighbouring Berkshire in 1870, there were 1,139 pedlars, one for every 110 residents of the county and the Chief Constable was extremely concerned as most reported crimes was down to vagrants. (100 years of the Berkshire Constabulary).

In the same year, 1870, The Reserve Forces Act was passed, part of this act required Chief Officers of Police throughout the Country to serve within his district any notice the Secretary of State desired to be served on any member of the reserve forces, which included the militia, yeomanry, volunteers and informing them of annual training etc.

An example is General Order 6/80 dated January 27th, 1880, where ninety posters were sent to the Kingsclere Division to be posted on Chapel and Church doors informing members of the Hampshire Infantry Militia of training. On May 20th, 1880 it was the turn of the Hampshire Engineers Militia and Submarine Miners.

On February 5th 1881, it was again the Hampshire Infantry Militia and on February 9th it was the turn of the Artillery Militia, and so on.

On August 26th 1875, the Newbury Weekly News reported;

‘The Superintendent of Police, Mr. Supt. Fey, of the Hampshire Constabulary, who has been stationed at Kingsclere for 13 years, has been appointed Supt at Andover, in succession to Mr. Supt. Campbell, who has been promoted to the office of Deputy Chief Constable of Hants.

Mr. Fey has gained great esteem by the efficient and conscientiousness manner in which he has discharged the onerous and responsible duties of his office but the regret of his departure is compensated by the knowledge that his removal is just recognition of merit’.

Researched by: Andy Reid

Thomas FEY retired on 12th January, 1881,
after 36 years service, and died in March, 1887

This web page has been inspired by Sylvia Morgan, Thomas Fey’s
Gt. Gt. Granddaughter, who is researching the family history