BERWICK ADVERTISER, 3RD SEPTEMBER 1925

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NORHAM AND ISLANDSHIRES PETTY SESSIONS

WEDNESDAY

Before Capt. J. C. Collingwood, D. H. W. Askew, T. Darling, J. E. Carr, J. R. Wood, Esqs., Capt, C. Allenby and Capt, C. D. Leyland

WIFE DESERTED

George Wakenshaw, Shoreswood Pit House, was charged with wife desertion at Shoreswood Pit House in July, 1924. Mr H. R. Peters appeared for Mrs Wakenshaw, Mr Henderson appeared for Wakenshaw.

Mr Henderson suggested that a separation order be granted, but that as the husband was out of work and under the National Health Insurance at the present time that no order as to maintenance be made.

Wakenshaw said he was getting 17s from the insurance and had to pay 21s for lodgings in the house at Spowartstead where he was living.

Mrs Wakenshaw stated they were married about 11 years ago at Wooler and there were no children of the marriage. After they were married, they lived about three years with her mother and then went to Cornhill. Her husband left her in July 1924, and she had not got a half-penny from him since. Wakenshaw had taken all their furniture and had it stored in another woman’s house where he was living.

Wakenshaw said he was at present under Dr P. W. Maclagan, Berwick, and was receiving 17s a week sickness benefit from the Insurance and had done so since 10th May this year. The reason why he left Cornhill was that he was neither kept nor fed and had to work often in the harvest field without any dinner. He was quite willing to have a separation order. He had his furniture stored in a room at the house at Spowartstead.

Mr Peters– How long have you been living at Spowartstead? – Wakenshaw: Since April- Mr Peters: And how many people are living there? – Witness: Just four-Mr Peters: No more? –Witness: No- Mr Peters: Four people and you all sleep in the same room? – Witness: No, I sleep in the back room. – Mr Peters: But I thought you said your furniture was stored there? – Witness: My furniture and me. In the other room the woman and two girls of 16yrs and 11yrs sleep. – Mr Peters: Are you aware that notice for overcrowding has been served on this house? – Witness: Yes, but the other people went away.

On the suggestion of the Bench the pardon conferred together to come to an agreement about the division of the furniture and later announced that they had come to an agreement. The Bench then agreed to grant the separation order and fixed the nominal sum of 1s per week as maintenance.

INTERESTING WEDDING IN SOUTH AFRICA

NELSON-TURNBULL

A pretty wedding of local interest was solemnized at Troyeville Baptist Church, Johannesburg, on Wednesday, August 5th, the contracting parties being Miss Maragret (Peggie) Turnbull and Mr William Nelson, both of Johannesburg.

The bride who has spent most of her life in South Africa, is the only daughter of Mr and Mrs Jas. Turnbull, of Berwick-on-Tweed, and a granddaughter of Mrs Black and the late Councillor George Black, of Tweedmouth. The bridegroom is the only son of Mrs Nelson and the late Mr W. Nelson, of Dennistoun, Glasgow. During the Great War he saw considerable service on the Western Front and held a commission in a Highland regiment. He is Secretary to the well known South African firm of house furnishers, Messrs Shepherd and Barker, Ltd.

The ceremony was performed by the Rev. W. H. Doke, and the bride was given away by her brother, Mr James Turnbull. Her gown of ivory silk marocain was embroidered in silver beads and diamante and caught at one side with a spray of orange blossom. Her veil of Brussels lace was worn beneath a coronet of silver, and she carried a bouquet of white carnations and lilies.

The bridesmaid, Miss Cronje, wore shell pink crepe-de-chine over gold tissue and a picture hat of shell pink and gold tissue. She carried a bouquet of pink carnations.

Little Olive Wallace, daughter of Mr and Mrs Andrew Wallace, late of Berwick, was the flower girl. She wore a pretty frock of pale mauve, inlet with mauve net and lace and a cape to tone and carried a basket of mauve sweet peas. Mr Bob Paterson, of Johnnesburg, officiated as best man.

The bride’s mother wore a smart frock of black silk marocain embroidered with gold beads and a black and gold hat. Mrs Nelson, the bridegroom’s mother, wore navy blue marocain and a hat to match.

After the ceremony a reception was held at Oaklea, Kensington, and was attended by a large number of invited guests. The toast of the newly-married couple was proposed by the Rev. W. H. Doke. Mr Nelson made a happy and appropriate reply. Other toasts were duly honoured. Music was provided by Mr Gill’s orchestra and dancing was freely indulged in on the beautiful lawn. The graceful dancing of little Olive Wallace was greatly admired.

The wedding gifts were both numerous and valuable, and included a dinner service from the staff of Messrs Shepherd and Barker, Ltd., a silver tea service from the Ancient Order of Foresters, and a canteen of cutlery from the Jeppe Station Tennis Club.

The happy couple left in the evening for the south coast of Natal, where the honeymoon is being spent. The bride’s travelling costume was of wine-coloured repp trimmed with fur. Her sand-coloured hat was trimmed with a wine-coloured wing.

Credit: (WT-shared) NJR ZA at wts wikivoyage – Open Street Map: Image:Map-South_Africa.svg, CC BY-SA 1.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=22746461

It is interesting to record that the bride and bridegroom attended the ball in honour of the Prince of Wales’ birthday during His Royal Highness’s recent visit to Johannesburg.

Among the Berwickers present at the wedding were Mr and Mrs Alex. Simpson, Mr Wm. Simpson, and Miss Isobel Simpson; Mr and Mrs Andrew Wallace and Miss Olive Wallace; Mrs Selby Pattinson and Miss Iris Pattison; Mr John Scott and Miss Scott, of Whiterigg, Ayton; and Mr and Mrs J. R. Noble and Masters Alec. And Douglas Noble.

Buried Treasure – Who Owns the Gold Coins Found at Corbridge?

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This blog was written and researched by Claire Botham. Claire works for Historic England but spent some time at Northumberland Archives on a career development placement. Claire looked at the inquest papers relating to the Corbridge Hoard (ref: COS/3/34/12) and some related sources when researching her blog.

Corbridge Roman Town in the Tyne Valley area of Northumberland supported the adjacent Roman Frontier Garrison and was a depot for the distribution of provisions and a centre for manufacture of many articles required by neighbouring troops.

Excavations of the long buried site were started by the Corbridge Excavation Committee, whose President was the Duke of Northumberland, and excavations took place every year between 1907-1914.

The first significant find of these excavations was in September 1908 when workmen found a sheet of lead beneath a floor of which the two ends had been bent over to form a case or receptacle. Once unwrapped a gold ring and 48 coins were discovered. (Carlisle Journal 19/07/1912).

Discussions over the rightful owner of these items reached the High Court of Justice on 22 February 1910 when Henry George, 7th Duke of Northumberland, stated that they were “Treasure Trove” and claimed to be entitled to them. This meant that he was disputing the fact that these articles were the property of the King Edward VII.

Now what is “Treasure Trove” I hear you ask? The earliest definition is from Henry De Bracton in the 13th Century who defined it as any “gold or silver, whether in coin, plate or bullion, found hidden in the earth or other private place where no one can prove ownership. This treasure belongs to the King unless the person who hid it is known or can be discovered”.

Sir William Blackstone defines it as “where any money or coin, gold, silver, plate or bullion, is found hidden in the earth, or other private place, the owner thereof being unknown”

This definition became even more important when a more significant find was made on the site on 4 September 1911. Two workmen, Holmes Riley and Edward Coxon, were digging out soil on the site and “did then find 159 gold coins of the Roman Period 54AD-159AD enclosed in a bronze jug or vase”

Holmes Riley’s witness statement to the Coroner, Henry Taylor Rutherford, on 29 September 1911, states that at 9.15am he was using a pick, “when some soil fell down exposing to view the bronze jug/vase. It was standing upright and the top of the jug was 1ft from the surface. Coxon then placed his hands by the side, Holmes used the pick and eased the jug… into Coxon’s hands and as it fell over the bottom came out. We then saw it contained a number of coins.”

NRO 2123/1

The Foreman, John Rutherford, and the Superintendent of the Excavations, Robert Henry Forster, inspected the find and found there to be 159 gold and 2 bronze coins covering the periods from Nero to Marcus Aurelius, approximately AD 50 -AD 180. These coins were deposited with Lloyds Bank in Corbridge for safekeeping and were examined by Mr H.H.E.Craster, known as Edmund Craster, an expert numismatist, who had examined the gold coins found in 1908.

The ownership of the coins was discussed in detail at this inquest with representatives from the Treasury, the Duke of Northumberland and Captain Cuthbert, the landowner. The Duke of Northumberland was the Lord of the Manor having been awarded the area of land under an Act of Parliament of 1776.

The Duke of Northumberland writes to the Corbridge Excavation Committee on 18 September 1911 (SANT/GEN/ARC/1/4) asking them to approach the Treasury “making it plain that they do not do so in my interest, but in the interest of local archaeology, and that they regard it as a matter of urgency in consequence of the discontent exhibited by the workmen at not receiving any reward pending litigation”. On 21 September 1911 he suggests “he should lie low, as the Treasury must not suppose that I am trying to grind my own axe… and if I prove my right to Treasure Trove, I may take the find to Alnwick and lock it up”.

Both the Duke and the landowner contended that as the coins had been accidently abandoned, probably during one of the raids of the Caledonians (Scots), they were not Treasure Trove but belonged to the finder or Lord of the Manor. However, the gold coins had been carefully deposited in a suitable receptacle as if with the deliberate intention of secreting them and all of the evidence shows that the jug had not changed its position from the day on which it passed out of its original owners hands till it was discovered (George McDonald report 1912- reported in Scotsman on 4 November 1912).

By 3 October 1911 the Duke seems to have realised that his claim for these coins is somewhat diminished as the Treasury had formally challenged his right to Treasure Trove, and he had little hope that there was a precedent he could use in support of his claim.

Captain Cuthbert, the landowner, writes on 12 November 1911 that “the treasury intends to act “in the interest of archaeological science generally” and to forego my just claim.” But by 19 January 1912 he writes that “I still do not agree that the 1911 fund is Treasure Trove but I give up my claim because the collection might be kept together” (SANT/GEN/ARC/1/4).

By early 1912 both the Duke of Northumberland and the landowner relinquished their claim to the coins and a High Court judgement on 23 February 1912 meant that a Treasury representative could call into Lloyds Bank in Corbridge to take possession of them.

One of the coins discovered is particularly important with a coin of Faustina, wife of Antoninus Pius, which records the inception of an institution for the education of young girls, which was founded by her husband after her death. There is only one other surviving example of this coin held in the Bibliotheque Nationale in Paris (London Evening Standard 19 July 1912).

Both the 1908 and 1911 hoard have been preserved intact by the British Museum and are not mixed with the rest of the Roman coin collection so students can examine and study them in their entirety.

BERWICK JOURNAL 30TH JULY, 1925

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Mrs Philipson’s Great Welcome at Unionist Picnic at Haggerston

Amidst delightful surroundings – Haggerston Castle – the annual picnic of the Berwick-on-Tweed Conservative and Unionist Polling District was held on Thursday. Once more through the kindness of Capt. And Mrs C. D. Leyland, these grounds were placed at the disposal of the organisers, along with a field for the tea amusements, sports, etc., and proved just as popular as ever. The weather although not of the best for picnicking – a haze hovering overhead almost all the time – kept up and was just nice and cool for walking. As usual, many of the company, which included from Coldstream, Norham, Bamburgh, Seahouses, Berwick, etc., visited the flower garden, and some of the beautiful walks. Numbers also visited the Tower, which proved most interesting and instructive.

AMUSEMENTS

There was a nice collection of amusements to suit all, both old and young, and keen interest was evinced at various stalls. The treasure hunt, which proved a huge success, had no less than 400 competitions in 2 hours, and those in charge had as exceedingly busy time, for, mark you, there was a real treasure for the winners, the 1st receiving a £1 note as 1st prize; 2nd, 10/-; 3rd. 6/-; 4th, 4/-. Another well patronised stall was the fishing pond, and here you were allowed 1 minute to procure your catch, and this in practically most cases was too short for the keen competitors. The target golf received many patrons, and here to gain the prize was more difficult than at first anticipated. The ever-popular hoopla received its full quota, and the coconut shies were not forgotten.

Haggerston Castle, 1930’s. Ref No: ZNG XIX

SPORTS

These were conducted on excellent lines and good entries were received for all. Strange to say the lady who won the first prize in the ladies’ race has done so far 3 years in succession, namely since the picnic was held. In the 100 yards race, some of the entrants had passed their youth, but nevertheless they put up a good show, and added enjoyment to the on-lookers. The ladies’ tug-of-war brought out 6 teams, and keen tussles were seen in all, the final having to be pulled twice. The boys’ race was well contested and brought out some good runners.

CONCERT

One of the tit-bits of this function is the concert, and this year this item was just as popular as ever. The programme was submitted by the Plus Fours Concert party from Coldstream. This was their first appearance outside of Coldstream since they had been formed, and we are quite sure that it is only a beginning of a company which will be more heard about. The artistes all belong to Coldstream and are purely amateur, but this latter fact does not underrate them at all. They are all artistes of no mean repute, and with more public appearances will do exceptionally well. Their programme was of a most entertaining character, and the large crowd which had assembled thoroughly enjoyed every item. The concert could not have been held in more delightful surroundings, in front of the Castle, where the roses bloomed in great profusion Seats were placed on the lawn, and in excellent position for the audience to hear. At the close of the concert, Mrs Scott Briggs proposed a hearty vote of thanks to the artistes, and this was heartily responded to.

MRS PHILIPSON’S ADDRESS

As Mrs Phillipson rose, she was greeted with cheers. Her address, which was splendidly and distinctly delivered was listened to with rapt attention, punctuated with rounds of applause. Dealing with political matters Mrs Philipson mentioned the Widows’ Pensions Bill which had been read for the third time on Wednesday, with full agreement of the whole House.  The passing of the Bill meant that widows with a family could keep their children at school until 16 and receive an allowance, whereas before as soon as the children reached the age of 14 years the allowance was withdrawn. Ex-service men’s dependants were also safeguarded with this bill.

Mrs Mabel Philipson, Ref No: NRO 2161

The Government, remarked Mrs Philipson had had a very busy session and had gone through an enormous amount of work. “Our Government and Party” are keeping their promises. They were still faced wit the great problem of unemployment, and it was unfair to say they were doing nothing to alleviate it. The number of men who had obtained employment under relief schemes directly assisted by the Government in Feb, last was 117,963. The ship building industry which was very hard pressed, had been again guarantees of security, and certain work had also been undertaken by the Railway Coys., whereby 34 million pounds would be involved. The Home Secretary, too, was taking up the undesirable Alien question, and this would help unemployment and housing questions. It was all nonsense to say that the Government was doing nothing to help unemployment. Mrs Philipson also spoke on the health question, embracing education, schools, etc., and said that a survey was being carried out in the urban areas, and there would soon be a similar survey in rural areas, when any improvements or alternations necessary, would be put right. Then there was the food question, which was no easy one, and was a serious industrial problem.

She was very proud to be their member, and she was one of those who supported the Government. Capt. Leyland had said she was an optimist. Perhaps she was. Well, she knew the men connected with the coal industry did not want a strike, because they realised it would take 10 years to recover from its effects. Mr Baldwin, by not interfering between the workmen and the masters, and allowing them to settle their own quarrels, was doing the right thing, as by co-operation, and goodwill the best results would be obtained. (Applause). She believed in the character and uprightness of the British workmen and knew it would help us through the present crisis. Continuing Mrs Philipson said she was a very small member of that Government, and Mr Baldwin was a very busy man, but sometimes she had an opportunity of speaking to hi, and once she had told him that there was one place in the north which had faith in him. They, too, would remember when Mr Baldwin passed through Berwick Station. One day the Premier had asked “How are they all at Berwick?” Well, when she got back to London she would tell him, “they are all very well.”

She was glad to have been present and to have seen them all. It gave her wonderful encouragement to have their affect on as well as being their member. (Applause).

One of the most interesting events in the afternoon’s programme was the presentation to Mr W. J. Dixon, who had acted as Agent for 14 years, and this was made by Ald. D. H. W. Askew. Mr Askew said it was a very great pleasure to make the presentation to Mr Dixon for the valuable and good work he had done for 14 years in this constituency as their Agent. He had done admirable work as an agent and had also been a long and active and willing worker for the whole constituency. He regretted very much that the Chairman, Col. Scott, was unable to be present; he had had much intercourse with Mr Dixon and he knew the really good and useful work he had done. Col. Scott very much regretted that the work of a long-standing engagement forbade him to be present. Continuing, Mr Askew said it was safe before 1800 to consider North Northumberland a Conservative stronghold. Suddenly a Liberal candidate was brought into the field in the person of Lord Grey, who won the seat from the then Duke of Northumberland, one of the very best men; and the seat [assed away to Liberalism. It was in 1910 that Mr Dixon was appointed as principal agent and since then a great change had come over the constituency.

Mr Dixon got into touch with a large constituency, but no election had been held to test the strength of the party, and to show the valuable work done by Mr Dixon until Lord Grey gave up the seat, and Sir Francis Blake was elected. The next candidate was Capt. Philipson who stood as a Coalition candidate, and was backed up by the Conservative Party, and who unfortunately lost his seat. Hi wife came gallantly along to the aid of the Conservative Party, and she was returned as the Conservative member. Mr Dixon had had the honour of having 3 splendid victories on 3 occasions and anyone could be proud of such. Continuing, he said Mr Dixon was held in great esteem and regard throughout the large constituency. He had taken a leading part in local affairs, having been a member of Berwick Town Council, Chairman of Board of Education, and was Chairman when it was merged into County. He took a leading part in all organisations and had something to do with almost everything in War work. He had played a public part and it was only to show such recognition that the many subscribers wish Mr Dixon to accept this silver cup and to show the great regard in which he was held. He had now come to an end of his active work as political agent, but he would be able to help us yet. Mr Askew then said he had great pleasure on behalf of the many subscribers to present Mr Dixon with a silver flower bowl and wallet of Treasury notes. (Applause).

Mr Dixon on rising received a great ovation. He thanked Mr Askew very much for the kind words he had said about him and his friends for subscribing towards the handsome presents; he would prize them most heartily. His aim had always been to win the seat for Conservatisers and he had succeeded in doing so. He was now back, he said, to the position he began in – a member of the Executive Finance Committee-and he thanked the Association for putting him in that position. Once again Mr Dixon thanked them for the handsome presents they had given him. (Applause).

Capt. Leyland who said that he did not wish to keep them longer, as Mrs Philipson wished to get down amongst them, said he had to thank the 2 Committees – ladies and gentlemen-for the splendid organisation. It was, he said, entirely due to them that the outing had been such a huge success; and it was through them that Mrs Philipson had come to address them. You will agree with me, he said, that it has been a huge success, and we have had even better weather than usual, and it has not actually rained. I will ask you to give 3 hearty cheers for the workers. ( Cheers).

Mrs Philipson then called for 3 hearty cheers for Capt. Leyland, and these were heartily given.

During the afternoon selections were rendered by Berwick Pipe Band and were much enjoyed. The arrangements for the picnic were excellently carried out, and the tea was up to the standard of past years.

There were between 1500 and 2000 present.

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