Newport First Stop - 100 Years of News Stories

Newspaper Reports 1880 - 1889

Researched by Derrick Cyril Vaughan

Star of Gwent. 14th March, 1880
Religious Mania

A farmer and his wife from the Henllys area, became deranged, awing to the close study they have been paying recently to theology. Their brother and sister also lost their reason, owing to the same cause, and now the servant girl has become insane. One of the brothers declared that he is Christ, and the other that he is Anti-Christ. Some days ago the two brothers and the servant girl left the farmhouse, with the object of inducing persons in the neighbourhood, to accompany them, as they asserted, to Heaven. They were followed by the police and a desperate struggle ensued when the officers came in contact with the two men and the girl. On the way to the station, the one who thought he was Christ, picked up his brother and carried him singing "Safe in the arms of Jesus." Both of them have since been admitted into Abergavenny Asylum. The wife is recovering her reason, but the sister and servant girl are still deranged. The former insists that she is Miriam. and that her brothers are Moses and Aaron.

Star of Gwent. 17th June, 1880
A LADY AND HER TEETH

At Newport County Court on Thursday, Miss Vickery a lady of Newport who needed a dentist's aid after some visits to gentlemen of that profession with varying results, gave defendant Mr. Williams an order for a set of teeth. These failed to satisfy Miss Vickery and she came before His Honour to recover 5 guineas, the cost of the artificial molars, incisors, canines. She laid them on the desk before His Honour and appealed tremulously that he would allow her to afford him an opportunity to judge how useless they were. "Shall I put them in?" she asked, and His Honour apparently not desiring to witness the operation replied that he was not a professional dentist. "But anyone can see what they are," rejoined Miss Vickery. She added that on complaining to Mr. Williams he was displeased and found fault with her mouth (Laughter). Answering Mr. R Edington; she admitted having been to other dentists with whom there was difficulty with regard to her new teeth. Mr. E.G. Williams said she came to him in 1880 and asked his opinion about a set of teeth made by another dentist. She asked him to make a set of teeth for her; but anticipating difficulty he reluctantly consented to do so on condition that he would do the best he could, but if they were not suitable that would be an end of the matter. His Honour "By you getting 5 guineas?" Defendant "Yes." He added that if she persevered with them her mouth would become accustomed to the pressure. Mr. Lewis Williams, Assistant to Defendant, replied to His Honour that the plate was made by his apprentice. His Honour "Oh that accounts for it." He thought the Plaintiff was entitled to recover the money and made an order accordingly.

Merlin. 21st January, 1881
Narrow Escape from Drowning

On Friday afternoon as the steamer 'Cleomana' was leaving the locks at the Alexandra Dock, the Captain's son who had gone on board to wish his father 'good-bye", fell into the water when trying to jump onto the quay wall. The boy was got out with some difficulty by the lock gate- men.

Merlin. 4th March, 1881
New Magistrates

The Commission of the Peace for the Borough of Newport has been returned from the office of the Lord Chancellor, with the names of the following gentlemen entered therein: J.R. Jacob, J. Moses, R.W. Jones, H.P. Bolt and D.A. Vaughan.

Merlin. 4th March, 1881
Death of The Dowager Lady Raglan

We regret to record the demise of the widow of the late Field Marshal Lard Raglan, who it will be remembered died while in command of the British troops in the Crimea. Her Ladyship died in London on Sunday, having reached the venerable age of 89. The deceased was the niece of the late Duke of Wellington.

Merlin. 18th March, 1881
Women's Suffrage

A meeting at Newport of the Women's Suffrage Association was held at the Albert Hall on Tuesday evening, in support of the motion of Mr. Hugh Mason M.P., to extend the Parliamentary franchise to women householders and ratepayers. The attendance was limited.

Merlin. 15th April, 1881
Accident at the Liverpool Wharf

A man named Jacob Hood employed at the Liverpool Wharf, met with a somewhat peculiar accident last Friday. Whilst engaged at low water in removing mud from the berths alongside the wharf, he stepped on to a spot which was unusually soft and deep, and sank up to his neck. Fortunately Hood's cries were heard by his fellow workmen, and he was extracted from his dangerous position by means of a rope.

Merlin. 13th May, 1881
Bicycle Contest

The first run between the Newport and Cardiff Bicycle Clubs took place on Saturday, and proved to be an unqualified success. Eighteen of the Cardiff Club met eleven members of the Newport Club at Castleton and rode into Newport side by side. Proceeding to Maindee and Liswerry they returned to Messrs Ewins & Sons, Restaurant, Commercial Street, where the Newport Club entertained their Cardiff friends to a knife and fork tea. A cordial vote of thanks was proposed by the Cardiff captain to the Newportonians for their hospitality. They started shortly afterwards to make for home, a number of the Newport men escorting their visitors as far as Castleton.

Merlin. 20th May, 1881
Death at the Infirmary

Charles Wanklin, a muffin maker, of Charles Street, an elderly man who on Easter Monday broke his leg in the Thomas Street subway, died at the Infirmary from the effects of the accident.

Merlin. 25th November, 1881
Mr. Thomas Spittle

In the last few days there has been announced the death of a gentleman who was well known and generally respected in local circles, and who had, for a long period, been connected with the trade of this town. Mr. Thomas Spittle of the Cambrian Foundry, died at his residence Cambrian House, Maindee, about half past nine on Saturday evening. Deceased had been for some years subject to attacks of gout and these were sometimes sharp and protracted. We believe, that Mr. Spittle was possessed of considerable wealth. He was for a few years a member of the Town Council but never took a prominent part in municipal affairs. He was in his 76th year and will be buried in the family vault at Pontypool.

Merlin. 9th December, 1881
Newport Histrionic Club

On Friday the Mayor, Mr. Thomas Beynon, gave a dinner to members of the Histrionic Club at the Ship and Pilot Hotel. Host Dix, provided an excellent repast, and a very pleasant evening was spent.

Merlin. 16th December 1881
The Mayor's Banquet

To say that the banquet given by the Mayor of Newport Mr. Thomas Beynon to a very numerous party, at the King's Head, held last evening, was equal to any local civic feast which had preceded it, would be to convey but an inadequate impression. While we would avoid using terms of comparison respecting it which might seem invidious, we may yet say that in the sumptuousness of last night's entertainment our generous-hearted Mayor exceeded himself.

County Observer. 8th April, 1882
Robbery at Newport

Mary Collins, described as a charwoman, was indicted on three charges of theft - first with stealing a coat from the house of James Lewis, a pilot of Williams Street; second with stealing a suit of boy's clothes, an overcoat, and a pair of boots the property of Alexander Morgan; third with stealing a table cloth, a shirt and other articles from the house of Edward Garmston in Williams Street, all in the Borough of Newport.

The prisoner pleaded guilty to stealing the articles in the last two charges. Mr. Daniell who appeared for the prosecution said as the prisoner had pleaded guilty on two charges, he did not propose to proceed with the evidence in the third case. The prisoner also admitted to having been previously convicted and sentenced to seven years penal servitude on two previous occasions. The Chairman said the two previous sentences seem to have had no effect, she was incorrigible and must now be sentenced to ten years penal servitude.

County Observer. 8th April, 1882
Keeping a Brothel at Newport

Jane Kane, 44, described as a housekeeper, was indicted for keeping a brothel in George Street Newport. Mr. Daniell appeared for the prosecution. He said that the prisoner was the mistress of a house at 40 George Street. She received some young girls to the house, and carried on an infamous traffic. Inspectors Curtis and Jones were called as to the general character of the house, both deposing that they found prostitutes at the place, and had cautioned the prisoner. Two young girls Sarah Young and Elizabeth Owen aged 16, were also called, and proved having lived at the house as prostitutes. The prisoner in defence said she kept a boarding house and was not supposed to know the characters of the persons who lived there. The jury returned a verdict of guilty and 12 months imprisonment was imposed.

Star of Gwent. 29th November, 1883
The Town Hall Clock in Darkness

Sir,

Will you kindly inform me what the cost would be to illuminate the Town Hall clock at night, so that the general run of night workmen might contribute a mite towards the fund; in order the time may be ascertained at all times at night? I certainly think that a little of the ratepayers' money might be appropriated for this purpose. I may say that if some of our Corporation worked at all at night this would be looked into.

Signed - In the Dark

Star of Gwent. 20th December, 1883
Cure for Consumption

Sir,

I see that in all our principal towns, a medical man has been delegated to go to Berlin, to gain all the information he can respecting Doctor Koch's cure for consumption.

Not having seen any movement in Newport relative to the above, I should be pleased to subscribe two guineas towards this object. I know there are many longing hearts in Newport suffering from this deadly malady, anxiously looking for someone to go and bring the healing balm to their wasting bodies.

I am Sir - Yours Respectfully,

T.M. Wittle

Star of Gwent. 3rd January, 1884
Drowned in the Usk

Mr. Brewer held an inquest at the Bridge Inn on Monday, on the body of a young man, unknown, aged about 24 years. The deceased went down to the Tredegar Boat Company's wharf on the previous night, evidently the worse for drink, and tumbled into the water. Efforts were made to save him, but they were of no avail, and the body was found under the bows of the steamer. A verdict of "Accidentally Drowned" was returned.

County Observer. 9th December, 1885
Mr. Cordes at the Dock

Mr. Cordes addressed three enthusiastic meetings near the Alexandra Dock on Tuesday afternoon. The first was held at the works of Messrs Arthur & Son in Coomassie Street. During this brief address he was repeatedly cheered and at the close of the meeting three hearty cheers were given in his favour, and also to the honour of Lord Salisbury and the present Government. At number six hoist near the Alexandra Dock Mr. Cordes addressed another fairly well attended meeting, and was again accorded a very enthusiastic welcome. A short time after a large crowd assembled outside the Alexandra Dock Hotel, where the candidate touched upon the subject of fairly balanced trade, and also referred at some length to the question of Leaseholds.

Merlin. 5th March, 1886
Emma Knapp - Again

The now notorious Emma Knapp was again brought up for being drunk and disorderly in Canal Parade. On Saturday night P.C. Colbourne said he was on duty at the bottom of Llanarth Street. He saw defendant using very bad language and ordered her to go home, but she refused and he took her into custody. Defendant said she only came out on Saturday from doing two months (Laughter). She said she only had two glasses because she felt as weak as a robin and the drink must have overcome her. She had purchased the drink out of a shilling given her on release from Usk.

She begged hard to be let off, and then she would leave the town. The Chairman reminded her that she had given that promise before. It was the defendant's 35th appearance, and the Chairman thought it would be best to send her to the asylum at Abergavenny. She said she would rather go there. The Clerk said he believed she was not right. To the defendant he said, "You are looking better this morning than I have seen you in a long time - your sojourn at Usk has evidently done you good." (Laughter) The defendant was committed for another fourteen days.

Merlin. 26th April, 1886
Whitsuntide Outing

The Marshes Road Wesleyan Sunday School had their Whitsuntide outing on Thursday, in a field on Stow Hill, kindly lent by Mr. Charles D. Phillips. A most enjoyable afternoon was spent and at the close "God Save the Queen" was sung and three cheers were given for Mr. and Mrs. Phillips in acknowledgement of their kindness.

Star of Gwent. 14th May, 1886
A Nightingale

The charming song of this bird has been heard for several evenings past in close proximity to the town a short distance on the Caerleon Road. Many people who have wandered to the locality between 11 and 12 o'clock have been rewarded by hearing the delightful warbling of the nocturnal songster.

Star of Gwent. 14th May, 1886
Whit Monday

An immense attraction by Newport Athletic Club's splendid band of Royal Marines and a magnificent display of oriental fireworks and a grand athletic meeting under A.A.A. and N.C.U. Laws. £85 in prizes. Admission 6d. Newport Athletic Grounds.

Star of Gwent. 4th June, 1886
Oak Apple Day

Saturday being the 28th May, the time honoured custom of wearing oak apples in commemoration of the escape of King Charles II was adhered to by many persons in Newport, the heads of horses in the streets were also freely decorated.

Merlin. 18th June, 1886
The Woodlands Sale

At the Kings Head Hotel Mr. R.B. Evans attempted to sell by auction "The Woodlands" Malpas, the residence for years of the Homfray Family. The estate covers 48 acres, 2 roods and 25 perch, and was offered in three lots. The first lot consisted of the house and twelve acres. The house was described as well and commodiously built etc. The bidding started at £1,400 and slowly advanced to £1,750 but the auctioneer withdrew the property at that figure.

Merlin. 18th June, 1886
The Drunken Innkeeper

David Purcell Rowe landlord of the Waterloo Inn was summoned for being in charge of a horse in Commercial Road an Monday. P.S. Williams said on the day in question he saw the defendant riding a pony down Commercial Road; he was drunk and fell off the horse. This evidence was corroborated the Bench fined defendant twenty shillings.

Merlin. 9th July, 1886
George Eliot at Barnard Town

On Friday Sir George Eliot, the Tory candidate for the Boroughs, after addressing a meeting at the Old Albert Hall, Ebenezer Terrace, drove to the Mission room at Barnard Town, to address another meeting. Towards the middle of the proceedings the room became rather crowded, and it was soon manifest that the majority had no sympathy in common with the Tories. Sir George had a fairly good hearing, whilst reiterating the matter of his former speeches, chiefly relating to his connection with the Docks, and his sympathies in common with the working man. The succeeding speakers, however, Mr. Blake, Colonel Lyne, and Mr. R. Laybourne, experienced great interruption, especially Mr. Laybourne. By the time the meeting broke up a crowd of several hundred persons had gathered outside, and following the example of the majority inside, struck up Mr. Carbutt's election songs, in addition to which, red lights were freely scattered, and all kinds of hooting, groaning, hissing, and booing, were indulged in as Sir George drove off in his carriage. The proceedings were the most lively experienced during the present campaign.

Merlin. 16th July, 1886
Distressing Occurrence at Newport

On Tuesday a very painful case of a suspected suicide took place at Brynglas, at the residence of Mr. T. Cordes. It appears that between six and seven o'clock the coachman was in the stables, when he heard something fall heavily in the stable room. He went into the room, and found that John "the stable man", as he was generally called (his name was John Baldwin), was lying on the floor with his throat cut in a most frightful manner. There was in the room a small looking glass used for shaving and other purposes, and where the razors and other shaving materials were kept. A razor was found by his side, and it is presumed that Baldwin cut his own throat. Intelligence of the occurrence spread rapidly into Newport. Baldwin is about 26 years of age and hails from Garstang in Lancashire, where his mother resides and of whom he was the support.

Star of Gwent. 6th August, 1886
Reverse Of Fortune

A Newport resident, who some years ago had a considerable practice in the town as a solicitor, has now become so reduced that it is feared an attack of illness, from which he is suffering will lead to his removal to the Union House.

Star of Gwent. 8th August, 1886
New Roman Catholic Church At Newport
Laying The Foundation Stone

The want of increased church accommodation for the Roman Catholics at Newport has long been felt although a subscription list for a new edifice at Pill was opened two or three years ago the Reverend Fathers decided wisely not to proceed with the work until sufficient funds were in hand in order that the building should be opened free of debt. Their efforts have now been crowned with success and on Monday morning the foundation stone of the large and handsome Church was laid in Clarence Street by the Bishop of Newport and Menevia. There were early services at the church on Stow Hill and at 10 o'clock the school children assembled and formed into procession. The procession which was nearly half a mile in length was headed by the band of the League of the Cross and the handsome banner of this Order. Next followed the members of the Hibernian Society in white trousers and gloves, these being succeeded by a number of females wearing blue cloaks as belonging to the Order of the Children of Mary. School children numbering about 1200 were next in succession carrying flags and banners, the younger of the scholars were accommodated in vehicles. The procession altogether was one of the finest the Catholics have ever previously organised. The route was up Stow Hill through Havelock Street and North Street, then by way of Baneswell Road to Commercial Street and on to Pill. The new church which is to be called St. Michaels will seat about 1000 persons and its cost is expected to exceed £4000.

Merlin. 27th August, 1886
Housemaid Hurled from a Swinging-Boat

Monday evening, about seven o'clock, a girl named Mary Ann Banfield, aged seventeen, residing in Baneswell, whilst indulging in the past-time of patronising Mr. Studt's swinging-boats at Clarence Place, was, when the boat had risen to a great height, violently hurled from it, and pitched on to the wheel of a cart, and thence to the ground. She was very badly bruised and the shock to the system was very great, necessitating her being conveyed to the Infirmary and detained. This should act as a warning to persons old enough to know better than to ascend in the air in these boats to such a ridiculous height.

Merlin. 5th November, 1886
The Prevalent Destitution

Mr. Burchan (the Board of Guardians' Inspector) visiting the Union on Saturday, was glad to see that the few cases of Relief for able bodied persons in this Union, had been dealt with, without the applicants having to undergo "Pauperising". He was glad to see the men (with families) getting wages from the Corporation for breaking stones. That was a far better course than pauperising them. It answered the purpose very well.

Merlin. 12th November, 1886
Accident to an Onion Vendor

On Thursday an accident occurred to a Frenchman, one of the batch of onion hawkers now in Newport, though happily it was not of a very severe nature. The poor fellow was lifting a basket of onions at the docks, when it fell upon him, inflicting a rather nasty gash on the side of the head. He was removed to the Infirmary and detained.

Merlin. 19th November, 1886
His Worship's Leniency

Charles Wall was the first defendant to come before His Worship the Mayor, George Hoskins Esq., he being summoned on the information of a brother cabman named Lockyer, for carrying three persons in his hansom cab, whereas he was licensed to carry only two. Lockyer told his Worship that about five o'clock on Friday evening three Spaniards came down Dock Street and defendant put them all in his cab, although witness was close by with a four-wheeler, and had only earned one shilling in eight hours. The defendant pleaded that his fares were two young Spaniards and a boy who was going to School at Chepstow. He only took the one young man and the boy to the station, putting the other one down at Blaina Wharf. He would have walked to the wharf but did not know the way. His Worship told the defendant to let this be a lesson to him, and this being the first case brought before him he discharged the defendant.

Merlin. 19th November, 1886
An Insurance Problem

"My darling little wife" said the husband, "you will be pleased to hear I have just insured my life." "Yes of course," replied the wife, "there it is again - the proof of how utterly selfish and inconsiderate men are, always thinking of themselves. Naturally, it never occurred to you to insure my life."

County Observer. 29th January, 1887
The Wreck of a Newport Steamship

Lloyds agent at Lisbon telegraphs that information has been received from Peniche that the British Steamship 'Brentford' from Newport to Malta, has been totally wrecked, all on board being lost except one man. The 'Brentford' was a screw steel steamship of 2143 gross tons, built at West Hartlepool in 1885 and was owned by Messrs Watts, Ward & Co of Newport.

County Observer. 23rd April, 1887
The Murder of Colonel Roden

Colonel Roden, of Ty Brith near Newport, has been tragically killed in Corsica. The news was received by his daughter shortly before she joined him in that island.

The Colonel was a director of the Argentilla Silver Lead Mines at Calvi, and had been out there to supervise the running of the Company for a short time. He was living in a house at the works, and had arranged for a new closet to be constructed, in the garden of the house, by three carpenters. On leaving the house after lunch he found only two of the men at work, the third had gone off shooting without permission. When the man returned the Colonel abused him about the work, took him by the throat, and shook him. The man, who was called Pair, infuriated at this attack, shot the Colonel in the abdomen, and he died almost immediately. Pair is now in prison awaiting trial.

Colonel Roden's body has been enclosed in a zinc shell and then in two others of wood, and interred in the cemetery of Galeria, from whence it has since been exhumed and sent back to England by the Steamship 'Noruban', for burial near his home.

The Star of Gwent and South Wales Times, 10th June, 1887
Mr Gladstone at Newport

Follow this link for photograph and full report.

Merlin. 20th June, 1887
Fifty Years a Queen

There is no town in the Kingdom, whose progress has been more marked, than that of Newport during the period of fifty years, which today marks the Jubilee of Her Majesty's reign. On the 20th June 1837, docks were unknown at Newport, the slight railway accommodation to the Borough would in these days be regarded as quite worthless; from the river to High Street a narrow pill slowly wended its way, whilst the width of the roadway did not exceed ten or eleven feet.

In 1837 nearly the whole of the traffic with Newport, was conveyed by the Monmouthshire Canal, whilst passengers had to content themselves with the old stage coaches, carriers vans, and omnibuses. Compared with today Newport was simply a rural village. Its population did not exceed 9000, the inhabited houses being about 1500. Today, the population of the town exceeds 40,000, the number of inhabited houses is fully 7000.

The Alexandra and Newport Docks have been constructed, a perfect network of railways runs into the town, and we are exporting over three million tons of coal per annum.

These particulars, brief though they are, will serve to show the wonderful development of Newport from that day, precisely fifty years ago, when Victoria was informed that she had succeeded to the throne.

Merlin. 30th March, 1888
Flowering Sunday

Sunday being Flowering Sunday, or what is known in Church circles as Palm Sunday, the custom was followed of decorating the graves with flowers. At the New cemetery the display was not so great as in former years; neither was the attendance of visitors so numerous, doubtless being attributable to the unfavourable state of the weather. Some had taken the precaution to have the flowers there on Saturday night, and of course in consequence of the subsequent snowfall, they were entirely obscured from view by the "white mantle" on Sunday morning.

Due to the rowdyism usually prevailing in the Cemetery on Flowering Sunday, there was yesterday, a strong force of police on duty there, and of course the presence of this largely had the effect of preserving order, decorum, and better conduct than has unfortunately hitherto been the rule.

Merlin. 9th November, 1888
Festival of All Saints

On November 1st, the festival of All Saints, a great nuptial ceremony was solemnised at St. Michaels Catholic Church which was opened about twelve months ago. These being the first marriages to be celebrated in the handsome edifice, the event attracted more than ordinary attention, and a great concourse of people assembled to witness the imposing function.

The Church was beautifully embellished for the occasion. The parties were Mr. Thomas Foley and Miss Catherine Cunningham; Mr. Charles Dyer and Miss Lynes. Both of the brides have been teachers at St. Michael's Schools, adjoining the Church, for some years past. The Rev. Father Bailey conducted the eventful ceremony.

Star of Gwent. 5th January, 1889
A Mule with Rheumatism

James Gatehouse was summoned on Wednesday morning with causing a mule to be cruelly treated. On the 11th inst. P.C. Williams saw the animal attached to a cart, in charge of a lad named Charles Scard, in Commercial Road. It was very lame and unable to pull, the cart. The constable ordered the mule to be taken home, and on the way he had to assist the lad to push the cart along. Williams later saw Gatehouse but he said there was nothing wrong with the mule, it was only laziness. Mr. Greenwell of the R.S.P.C.A. inspected the mule and confirmed it was very lame, He obtained expert opinion which stated that the mule was suffering from rheumatics in the legs. Gatehouse promised to destroy the animal and a fine of five shillings was imposed.

Star of Gwent. 18th January, 1889
Servants Ball at Tredegar Park

Monday night proved as thoroughly enjoyable as any of its predecessors. Nothing could have exceeded the generosity of His Lordship in providing for the wants of the friends and acquaintances of his domestics, for the bounteous spread was fully equal to that which would have been provided for guests moving in his own circle of society. The timely sorrow for the death in the family on Monday night was completely lost in the giddy dance, and the time flew far too rapidly for those who had accepted invitations. It was a delightful reunion, and yet modern radicals would reform such noble-hearted landlords and employers as Lord Tredegar out of existence.

Star of Gwent. 18th January, 1889
Free Breakfasts

A movement has been set on foot for providing, during the winter, a free breakfast on Sunday morning, for a number of poor children of the town. The first of the series will be given tomorrow at the Old Albert Hall, Ebenezer Terrace. Lord Tredegar, the Mayor, and other gentlemen have subscribed to the fund being raised for the purpose.

Star of Gwent. 18th January, 1889
Desertion of Seamen

During the year 1888, 15766 seamen were engaged at Newport, and of these, 490 did not join their ships. Six steamers and three sailing vessels were delayed in port in consequence of the desertions. The vessels inwards numbered 778, and the sailors engaged being 13075. Of the latter 202 deserted. At Newport during the year there were 55 convictions.

Star of Gwent. 18th January, 1889
Sudden Death from Excitement

On Thursday afternoon Mr. Cashmore; landlord of the Talbot Inn, St. Mary Street, Baneswell, was just returning home from recording his vote, when going up West Street, he was seized with a fit. He was immediately conveyed home but shortly afterwards expired. Death was apparently due to heart disease.

Star of Gwent. 18th January, 1889
Monmouthshire County Council

In Central Ward No.7 and 8 divisions, the candidates were Mr. J. Saunders (C) and Mr. D.A. Vaughan (L). As nearly the whole of the Roman Catholic votes are centred in this division, the return of Mr. Vaughan was looked upon as an absolute certainty. At the same time his opponent has fought the contest throughout in the most plucky manner. The polling station for No.7 was at the Roman Catholic Schools, High Street, Pillgwenlly, and the No.8 at the Cattle Market. Voting started slowly with more briskness later on, especially at the Catholic Schools station. The Roman Catholics were very diligent on behalf of Mr. Vaughan, whilst the supporters of Mr. Saunders were by no means idle, they continued to work with vigour, and it was anticipated Mr. Saunders would make a good show when the poll was declared. When the figures were announced they were as follows: D.A. Vaughan (L) 378, J. Saunders (C) 205, majority 174.
Mr. Vaughan returned hearty thanks for his election remarking that his opponent was like the Dutchman's "little dog" having "his tail cut short and his ears cut long."

Star of Gwent. 18th January, 1889
Young Married Woman Killed

At the Talbot Hotel on Monday, the Coroner held an inquest upon the body of Eliza Carnell. The deceased, a young married woman, was killed at Barnardstown a few weeks ago. She was carrying her husband's supper to the Brattice Works, when she fell over a cart belonging to Mr. Samuel Small, contractor, and sustained injuries from which she died.

Star of Gwent. 25th January, 1889
Funeral of an Old Servant

The remains of Mr. Edward Taylor of Friars Road were interred at the New Cemetery. Up to the time of the death of Mr. Octavius Morgan, Taylor was in his employ as a coachman, a post he had filled for almost forty years. Prior to his coming to Newport he was in the service of Lady Rodney, a member of the Tredegar family.

Star of Gwent. 25th January, 1889
Married Paupers

At Saturday's meeting of the Newport Board of Guardians the clerk reported the receipt of a letter from Mr. Michael O'Shaughnessy, a married inmate of the House. The clerk read the letter which was written by O'Shaughnessy on behalf of himself and three other married inmates, asking for married quarters to be provided.

O'Shaughnessy was the only person able to sign his name, the other signatures were attested by crosses. In answer to Mr. Brown, the Master stated O'Shaughnessy had been several times before the Magistrates. The last time he was on leave he came home drunk, with a black eye, and he should on that occasion have been locked up. The letter was referred to the Visiting Committee.

Star of Gwent. 25th January, 1889
A Bankrupt Newport Pawnbroker

The first meeting of creditors in the bankruptcy of Isaac Marks, Pawnbroker, of 163 Commercial Road, Newport was held at the office of the Official Receiver on Friday. Proceedings were of a formal nature. The gross liabilities are £519.l9.11. Assets are £85, leaving a deficiency of £434. Marks' failure is set down to losses and bad trade.

Star of Gwent. 25th January, 1889
The 56th Appearance

Joseph Fitzgerald who made his 56th appearance, was charged with being drunk and disorderly in Market Street on Saturday night. P.C. Christopher Thomas proved the case. Defendant asked for another chance, promising to give up drink. The Chairman said they would give defendant a chance of starting by having 28 days in prison. The defendant said "you couldn't have given me more if you tried."

Star of Gwent. 25th January, 1889
The Drunken Rider

William Hyatt of Goldcliff was charged with being drunk in charge of a horse and furiously driving over Newport Bridge on Saturday night. Fined ten shillings or seven days.

Star of Gwent. 1st February, 1889
The School Board

We wash our hands of the School Board doings of the Rev. W.T. Wrenford. Three years ago when his first vote at the School Board meeting was given against a brother clergyman, so that he might secure his own election as Chairman, we accused him of having sacrificed the interests of the Church to his own personal vanity. We accused him of having sold himself to the Non-Conformists, and his actions ever since have borne eloquent tribute to the absolute truth of our charges. We set ourselves a mission to perform, and that was to prevent the re-election of the reverend gentleman. We have completely succeeded. He has not dared again to face a public vote. Had he done so, his position upon the Board would have been precisely similar to that of Mr. Heybyrne. Mr Wrenford recognised this, and withdrew, placing a nominee in the field, who should, if possible occupy his seat. The Rev. Wrenford has disappeared so has his nominee, and not a solitary Ratepayer will experience the slightest loss.

Star of Gwent. 22nd February, 1889
The Jealousy of Cardiff

It is irritating to observe, day after day, the studied attempts of the Cardiff Press to injure the trade of Newport. No opportunity is ever lost, and if one is not easily forthcoming, it is manufactured to order.

Monday last Messrs Houlder Bros' steamers brought to Newport 3000 carcasses of sheep which are to be disposed of throughout South Wales, to the purveyors of frozen mutton. Having arrived, they were unloaded, packed in trucks, and forwarded to Cardiff, where a company has erected cold-air rooms. Had accommodation of this kind been forthcoming at Newport, and we trust it shortly may be, if this trade is to continue, the carcasses would not have been sent to Cardiff at all, in as much as Newport had been specially selected as the port of landing.

Yet in the account of this consignment, published in the Cardiff newspapers, not the slightest mention was made of the Newport connection with it, and the public is induced to believe that the carcasses were forwarded direct to Cardiff. This and a hundred similar matters show the intense jealousy with which Cardiff regards the trade of Newport.

Star of Gwent. 1st May, 1889
May and December

An unusual scene, having in it a romantic element, took place on Thursday at St. Mary's Church. An old man named Dix, about 74 years of age, had, it appeared succumbed to the attractions of a girl of 18 named Fitz, and they resolved to become united. The advice of friends went unheeded and the banns were duly published. It was hoped, up to a day or two since, that better counsels had prevailed, and that the girl had abandoned the match; but on Thursday the couple presented themselves at the Church to be wed, accompanied by a large number of interested spectators. Having failed to give notice of their intended visit that morning, they found no clergyman present. The mother of the bride, however, was there, and vigorously protested against the ceremony being performed. She was informed by the Verger there was no clergyman there, and that therefore there could be no ceremony, and the parties eventually left the church, the mother meanwhile declaring that she would not allow the marriage, and making known in pretty plain terms her opinion of the transaction.

Star of Gwent. 1st May, 1889
Football

The third encounter of the season between Newport and Cardiff on Saturday attracted the usual big gate. A large contingent of the spectators coming from the Welsh Metropolis. The match had been the all-absorbing topic in football circles for days past, and the result was almost precisely what had been anticipated, by those who took a reasonable view of the state of affairs, although it was hoped there might be a surprise in store.

The game was contested in a spirited but friendly manner, from the time the ball was set rolling, to the time the referee's whistle sounded "no side". The play was fast and furious, Newport from the start looked as if they were going to make a good show. Jordan should certainly have scored on one occasion; Cardiff however exhibited their superiority, and the line was crossed on three successive occasions. Fothergill was forced to retire with an injury to his leg. Hannen had then succeeded in getting the leather on the right side of the goal line, but Webb made a miserable attempt to convert. Williams, just before the call of time managed to notch the last points and Cardiff were enabled to return home with flying colours.

Star of Gwent. 1st May, 1889
Miss Kate Vaughan at the New Theatre

The crowd which assembled at this theatre on Monday evening to greet Miss Kate Vaughan, one of the leading actresses of the day, was by no means doomed to disappointment.

Miss Vaughan, supported by a splendid company, was not seen at her best, as she was unfortunately suffering from a severe attack of neuralgia, and for any slight defects in her acting, her manager apologised during the course of the evening. Only very slight defects however were perceptible.

Star of Gwent. 1st May, 1889
The Victoria Theatre

There was a crowded house at the "Vic" on Monday evening when this capital exhibition called the "Diorama" entered upon its second weeks stay. The variety company is a capital one, the daring feats of Alvantee holding the audience spell-bound. The tricks of Martini's Troupe are cleverly executed, and Herr Blitz continues to give some clever exhibitions as a charmer. Lucy Santley warbles some pretty songs and Mr. Frank Freeman shows to much advantage as a humourist. The entertainment all round is thoroughly deserving of that success which is attending it.

Star of Gwent. 8th May, 1889
A Well Deserved Lesson

A correspondent who forwards his name and address as a guarantee of good faith, writes that on Saturday he witnessed an incident which might have terminated in a river mystery. After partaking of supper he took a stroll over Newport Bridge, the time being quarter past eleven. At Bangor Wharf he observed a burly man dressed in black, pick up a woman and partly carry her down the embankment to the water's edge. His suspicions were aroused and he saw the arrival of two young men who came from an opposite direction.

The man then dropped his burden and was interrogated as to his intentions with respect to the woman. He replied that she was his wife, and that they lived on the east side of the river. One of the young men said he was treating his wife in an extraordinary manner, and that it was his intention to see that no harm befell her. The brute, for such he proved to be, told the young man to mind his own business. The woman now spoke up and denied she was his wife. He got into a great rage, and informed his questioner that he had already beaten a local prize-fighter, and would have a go with him. The young man remained cool and said if he was not careful the only place he would go would be to the Police Station. The man behaved like a wild bull, his eyes glared and his arms wildly gesticulated - he breathed and threatened slaughter. At this moment a working man appeared upon the scene, and being informed of what had taken place administered to the bully one of the soundest lectures on moral philosophy that could possibly be imagined, while the group, including the woman, left him to ponder on the aches and pains of life.

Star of Gwent. 6th September, 1889
The New Theatre

At the New Theatre on Monday evening, a Company under the management of Mr. Charles Hermann, appeared in Uncle Tom's Cabin, founded upon a book written by Mrs. Bechers Stowe as popular and as widely read as Robinson Crusoe.

Star of Gwent. 6th September, 1889
Newport Police Court

The scene in the Court on Wednesday, when the young woman Cantwell was brought up on a charge which gravely imperils her life, was a solemn one. The habitues of the Court are exceeding prone to resort to levity as though the Court was simply a place for amusement. On Wednesday, however, they fully recognised the gravity of the position in which the prisoner found herself, and their conduct was befitting to the occasion. A simple glance at the accused sufficed to show that she is now fully alive to the terrific crime of which she is charged. The frequent clasping of hands, the restless eyes, which follow the evidence of the various witnesses, the twitching of ears as they drew in the remarks of the advocate for the defence, and the laboured and spasmodic breathings, told but too well the feelings of the prisoner during so painful an ordeal. The wail which issued from her lips when she was committed for trial on the charge of wilful murder, was one of despair, and the entire scene was, fortunately, one which has only been rarely experienced at Newport.

Star of Gwent. 20th September, 1889
Accident To A Horse

On Saturday night a horse ridden by Mr. Attwell of Alteryn was severely injured in a collision with a hansom cab on Chepstow Road, the shaft of the vehicle penetrated the animal's side to the depth of nearly a foot, veterinary aid had to be sought before the shaft could he extracted. Mr. Attwell also sustained several bruises. After the accident the horse was taken to an adjacent stable where its injuries were attended to.

Star of Gwent. 1st November, 1889
Disgraceful Scene at Newport

At Newport Police Court, Johanna Cashman, of Potters Parade, was summoned for assaulting her sister-in-law Caroline Cashman, of Portland Street. The women, it appeared, were married to two brothers, but there was ill feeling existing between them. A few days ago complainant was invited to her husband's aunt's house, from which her funeral took place, to assist in providing tea. Shortly after the cortege left for the Cemetery defendant called her abusive names, threw a cup of tea at her and scratched her face and pulled her hair.

A fight ensued between the women and both appeared in Court bearing unmistakable marks of fingernails.

The Chairman said that it was disgraceful, that in the face of death, defendant should have behaved so badly. She would be fined ten shillings and sixpence and bound over to keep the peace for six months.

Star of Gwent. 8th November, 1889
The Cabbies' Dinner

The Newport cab-men's dinner on Tuesday evening was attended by Lord Tredegar. His Lordship spoke at length of the useful work the "cabbies" did in the town, and what an asset it was to have such a fine body of men at the service of the public.

Star of Gwent. 8th November, 1889
Guy Fawkes' Celebration

Tuesday's celebration in Newport was somewhat more extensive than in recent years, doubtless due to the fine weather which prevails. Fireworks were to be seen in every direction, and during the evening tar barrels and burning boats were driven through the streets. The crowds were fairly orderly, and it was only in a very few instances that the police found it necessary to interfere. Members of the fire brigade were on duty, at their station, in readiness for an outbreak of fire, but fortunately their services were not required.

Star of Gwent. 8th November, 1889
Concerning Sudden Death of a Child

The sudden death of a child six months old, throws a lurid light upon that system of infantile insurance which, during the past years, has made such gigantic strides. It is irritating enough for a man or woman to walk through the streets, knowing that his or her life may have been insured by persons who are perfect strangers. But with regard to infants, the flood gates are opened which actually tempt heartless parents to destroy their own offspring.

Star of Gwent. 15th November, 1889
Police Court

At Newport Police Court on Wednesday, Denis McCarthy, who made his 14th appearance, was charged with assaulting Hannah Wood. The prisoner only came out of prison on 17th inst. after having served 12 months for stabbing another man. Since his return, Cross Street has been in an uproar. On Monday he accosted Wood and asked her for a penny; she declined to accede to his request, and with his crutch he knocked her insensible. Her face bled freely, and was now in a fearful state. The defendant, who was described as the terror of the neighbourhood, said complainant had asked him for money many times and for smokes out of his pipe. He denied the assault and said she fell down. The Bench considered the case a serious one and sent the prisoner to gaol for six months.

Star of Gwent. 15th November, 1889
Mabon's Day

As is well known to our readers, the first Monday of each month, or Mabon's Day, as it is now known by, is given as a holiday to those inmates of the Newport Workhouse who care to leave the institutions for a few hours for the purpose of visiting friends and relatives. Unfortunately the day very rarely arrives without witnessing the return of many of these inmates in a state of intoxication. It is therefore, a frequent sight to see them reeling back to the Workhouse intoxicated. For this they are of course reprimanded and punished by being deprived of the holiday for a certain period of time. It will thus be seen, that it is mistaken kindness to ply those unfortunates with drink.

Star of Gwent. 15th November, 1889
The Royal Albert Hall

It gives us much pleasure to record that after many years of being the occasion of some humiliation to persons of artistic leaning, this fine building has been denuded of its whitewash, and literally clothed and furnished in colours both harmonious and desirable. The lower part of the hall is treated with due regard to permanence. Enterprise of this nature seldom fails to be appreciated, and to command success, and we confidently express our opinion that this re-embellishment of the building, taken in conjunction with the fine new entrance, now being constructed, out of Commercial Street, will certainly render the premises as a place suitable for public entertainment.

Star of Gwent. 2nd December, 1889
Opinion

A large portion of the male public of Newport seems to be in ignorance of the fact that they are to a certain extent volunteer policemen. If an officer has in charge a disorderly prisoner, whom he finds it impossible to convey to the station, he has a perfect right to call to his assistance any number of male passers-by, whom he may think it necessary to complete the work. A refusal on this part renders them liable to immediate prosecution and heavy punishment.

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