October 1875
Isle of Wight Observer:
Oct 2nd 1875: LORD RADSTOCK – On Sunday afternoon last this nobleman gave a religious address in the Theatre. The novelty of the thing could not fail to attract a considerable audience—in fact we hear the Theatre was crowded—but we cannot express approval of using a place of amusement for religious purposes upon the Sabbath. It does not seem to agree wit the general notions of propriety.
Oct 2nd 1875: PAINTING THE TOWN HALL – Mr. DASHWOOD brought up a report from the Public Works Committee, which, he read, and then moved the first recommendation—that the tender of Mr. ATKEY for painting the outside of the Town Hall being the lowest (19.10s.) be accepted. Mr. FUTCHER seconded, and the motion was carried. (out of interest, the amount quoted in 1875 is equal to £2,816.42 in 2025)
Oct 2nd 1875: LOST BANK NOTES – On Monday morning, as Mr. James WOODS was proceeding from Cross-street to his house in West-street, he lost five £5 Bank of England notes from his pocket. He discovered his loss as soon as he reached home. The Town Crier was at once instructed to “cry” them, a reward of £5 being offered for their recovery. They were very soon picked up by a little girl named Eliza DOWNER, who took them to Mr. BUCKETT, and duly obtained her reward. (more about Henry BUCKETT here)
Oct 9th 1875: IW STEAMPACKET COMPANY – We understand, and the public will learn with much pleasure, that the directors of the Isle of Wight Steam-packet Company have just given orders for the construction of two new and powerful iron steamships. The builders of these will be Messrs. BARCLAY, CURLE, and Co., of Glasgow, who constructed the favourite steamer “Southampton”, belonging to the same company. The new vessels will be fitted with compound engines, and in design they will be an improvement on the “Southampton.
Oct 9th 1875: ROYAL ISLE OF WIGHT INFIRMARY – The committee gratefully acknowledge the receipt of two large handsome scrap books from Dr. and Mrs. BARTLETT, St. John’s Park; one scrap book and “Little Folks” from Miss EASTY, per Dr. DAVEY; a basket of pears from Mr. FUTCHER; Some numbers of the “Graphic” from Mrs. BOULCOTT, Queen-s-road; and children’s trusses sent anonymously.
Oct 9th 1875: SPITHEAD FORTS – Now that the Spithead forts are ready for their armaments, the size and character of guns with which they ought to be armed are matters of the first consequence. The ultimate decision arrived at will depend upon considerations. Since the scheme of fortification was first conceived immense changes have been made, both as regards the strength of the ships against which the forts are to serve as protection, and the power of the guns with which they are to be encountered. .
Oct 9th 1875: PLANS FOR BETTESWORTH SCHOOL – The Clerk reported that up to the proper day he had received 34 designs for the new school, from 33 persons. Since then, he had received one more, making 34 persons who had sent in 37 designs. Alternative designs had been sent in by three.
Oct 23rd 1875: WINTER EVENING ENTERTAINMENTS – We have great pleasure in announcing that a series of entertainments, consisting of music, recitations, &c., will be given in the Ryde National School, throughout the winter, in the especial interest of the working classes. The entertainments will commence on Tuesday, Nov. 2nd, at 8 p.m. and will be continued on every alternate Tuesday.
Oct 23rd 1875: GOVERNMENT ENQUIRY – Our Town Council have applied to the Local Government Board for sanction to borrow £1,100 for providing cottages, stabling, storage and fencing on the piece of ground in Monkton-street. The Local Government Board have directed enquiry into the matter, and Lieut.-Col. Ponsonby COX, R.E., will attend for that purpose at the Town Hall.
Oct 23rd 1875: TRAFALGAR DAY – Thursday being the anniversary of NELSON’s greatest naval triumph, his old flagship, the “Victory”, was decked with evergreens.