The History Of Oswestry - free ebook by William Cathrall

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The History Of Oswestry

William Cathrall

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80 chapters

THE HISTORY OF OSWESTRY,

THE HISTORY OF OSWESTRY,

COMPRISING THE BRITISH, SAXON, NORMAN, AND ENGLISH ERAS; THE TOPOGRAPHY OF THE BOROUGH; AND ITS ECCLESIASTICAL AND CIVIC HISTORY: WITH NOTICES OF BOTANY, GEOLOGY, STATISTICS, ANGLING, AND BIOGRAPHY: TO WHICH ARE ADDED SKETCHES OF THE ENVIRONS. ILLUSTRATED WITH WOOD-ENGRAVINGS, By MR. PERCY CRUIKSHANK, after Sketches by MR. ROBERT CRUIKSHANK. Ancient seal of Oswestry WRITTEN AND COMPILED BY WILLIAM CATHRALL, AUTHOR OF “THE HISTORY OF NORTH WALES,” “WANDERINGS IN NORTH WALES,” &amp;c. OSWESTRY

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Preface.

Preface.

The issue of this volume has been “the accident of an accident.” I was called by commercial business last autumn to Oswestry, where I found, temporarily located, a man with humour at his finger-ends, and of “infinite jest” on paper. I allude to Mr. Robert Cruikshank , an artist scarcely inferior to his celebrated brother, Mr. George Cruikshank — par nobile fratrum , who have both successfully laboured in their vocation to —“Shoot folly as it flies, And catch the living manners as they rise.” M

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LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS.

LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS.

Asterley Miss, Willow-street Attree R. W., Esq., Plasmadoc Bassett Joseph , Esq., solicitor Berry Joseph, Accountant Bennion Edward David, Esq., Summer Hill Baugh Robert, Llanymynech Bull William Isaac, Esq., solicitor Bickerton George Morrel, brazier Bartlett Charles Archibald, 32, Paternoster Row, London Buckley Miss Eliza Broughall John, Esq., Fernhill, Whittington Barlow Thomas, Esq., postmaster, Worksop Barnes William, Osberton Hall, Notts Bayley Joseph, Quadrant Cashel Rev. Frederick , Inc

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THE TOWN.

THE TOWN.

Page Beatrice Gate 94 Church Gate and Avenue 136 Cross Market and Street Views (facing the Title-page) Dispensary and Public Baths 118 Free Grammar School (facing) 107 Griddle Gate 137 New Gate 93 National Schools 113 Oswestry Castle (from an ancient drawing belonging to an inhabitant of Dudleston) (facing) 172 The Old Chapel 155 Parish Church (facing) 132 Powis Market, Guildhall, and Bailey Head (facing) 103 St. Oswald’s Well 190 Trinity Church 148...

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THE ENVIRONS.

THE ENVIRONS.

Brynkinalt (facing) 243 Chirk Castle (facing) 244 Halston (facing) 249 Llanymynech Church 255 Park Hall (facing) 263 Porkington (facing) 266 Selattyn Church 271 Whittington Castle (facing) 281 Wynnstay (facing) 287 A celebrated writer has said, that “History is philosophy teaching by example.” Local History was doubtless included in the reflection of the distinguished essayist, when he penned the memorable sentence, which has for years past been adopted as a national maxim. In Local History we

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Derivation of Name, &c.

Derivation of Name, &c.

The derivation of the name of the Borough is still, and perhaps ever will be, involved in obscurity. As a place of retreat for the Cymry, or early Britons, when chased from the south by the Roman invaders, it is not unlikely to have had a primitive name that has been lost in the flood of ages. Pennant, whose industry and historical research have earned for him lasting fame, dates the commencement of its history in the Saxon period, not anterior to the celebrated conflict at Oswestry, between O

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REVIEW OF ANCIENT HISTORY.

REVIEW OF ANCIENT HISTORY.

For ages the site of the town, with the surrounding district, was the theatre of brutal contention, rapine, and aggrandisement. Here, as in the Border-Lands of Scotland, it was “The good old rule, * * * the simple plan, That they should take who have the power, And they should keep who can.” Education had not spread her benign wings over the people, to hush them into peace; and too commonly they who possessed the strongest physical power and the wildest barbaris

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The Norman Period.

The Norman Period.

Saxon dominance was now rapidly approaching to its close; and the Britons were about to be exposed to the incursions of a new body of invaders, under the usurpation of William, surnamed the Conqueror. Bleddyn ab Cynvyn, with his brother, obtained in 1062 the sovereignty of North Wales and Powys, through the influence of the Saxon King Edward. Bitter hostilities subsequently occurred between Bleddyn and his kindred; at length the succession to the whole principality passed from his children, bu

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THE CIVIL WARS

THE CIVIL WARS

were not allayed until Death had silenced the two great actors in the tragic and murderous drama. The present volume, devoted principally to local history, is not an appropriate organ in which to discuss the merits and demerits of Charles I. and his sturdy rival Cromwell. Charles was doubtless guilty of many gross violations of his prerogative, and plunged into a reckless course of misgovernment, accompanied with galling taxation, which the people, beginning to learn the lessons of liberty, an

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THE RESTORATION.

THE RESTORATION.

It is unnecessary here to do more than merely advert to the unhappy close of Charles I.’s reign, the triumphs of Cromwell, and the bold and manly efforts made by Charles II. to obtain the Crown which had been so violently wrested from his father. Although Cromwell had made himself Lord Protector of England, Scotland, and Ireland, yet he reposed not on a bed of roses. “Every party in the kingdom soon became disgusted with Cromwell’s dominion. The royalists were indignant to see the ancient mon

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The Charter

The Charter

was granted “to the ancient Borough and Corporation of Oswestry, alias Oswaldstrey, in the County of Salop: That they be encorporated by the name of The Mayor , Aldermen , Common-council-men , and Burgesses of Oswestry ; and that they are empowered to purchase lands to them and their heirs for ever, and to give and bequeath or otherwise dispose of the same: That the said corporation may have one common seal for dispatching of all business concerning the said borough; and to change and make new t

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THE REVOLUTION.

THE REVOLUTION.

The Revolution of 1688 brought over to England William III.; and his reign was followed by that of “good Queen Anne.” Her reign has been termed the Augustan era of English literature, as it was graced with the polished writings of Sir Isaac Newton, Addison, Steele, Farquar (who laid the scene of his comedy, “ The Recruiting Officer ,” in Shrewsbury, and who, in his epistle dedicatory, first used the lively sentiment, “To all friends round the Wrekin,” now one of the social laws of Salop), of Va

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Public Establishments and Institutions.

Public Establishments and Institutions.

Imagine a party of strangers visiting Oswestry, having heard much spoken in favour of its neatness and beauty, and the picturesque scenery by which it is surrounded; and stretch forth your imagination, gentle reader, by supposing that this party have been comfortably supplied with viands, and perchance “the cup which cheers, but not inebriates,” by mine host of the Cross Keys or the Wynnstay Arms. Having discussed these good things, they may perhaps hasten out in quest of “the lions” of the pla

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THE POST OFFICE

THE POST OFFICE

Is situated in Willow-Street. Post-Mistress, Miss Sarah Babington, who has held her appointment since May, 1831. The Post Office was removed from Church-Street to Willow-Street, in October, 1839. DISPATCH OF LETTERS, &amp;c. Lines of Road, and chief Places of Destination. Letters can be Posted Letters &amp;c. can be registered until Without extra charge, until With one additional 1d. stamp, until Shrewsbury, Birmingham, and London taking Letters for all parts of England, North and Sout

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THE BANKS.

THE BANKS.

There are two Banks in the town. The Old Bank , under the firm of “Croxon, Jones, Longueville, and Co.,” is situated in Willow-Street, and has been established for upwards of seventy years. The original co-partners were Messrs. Gibbons, Croxon, and Sheppard. The present co-partners are Thomas Longueville Longueville, Esq., John Croxon, Esq., Richard Jones Croxon, Esq., and James Thomas Jones, Esq., who is also Acting Manager. Mr. Jones’s father (Mr. Charles Thomas Jones) likewise discharged

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THE STAMP OFFICE

THE STAMP OFFICE

Is situated in Leg-Street. Sub-Distributor, Mr. George Lewis....

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THE MARKETS.

THE MARKETS.

Until very recently the town of Oswestry had not provided any market-sites worthy of the name. As the town, however, advanced in population and trading pursuits, and agriculture and farming in general progressed in the neighbourhood, the want of new and convenient public markets began to be seriously felt, and most of the inhabitants, and gentlemen connected with the neighbourhood, were disposed to contribute towards the completion of such desirable improvements. A very liberal spirit was mani

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THE GAS-WORKS

THE GAS-WORKS

Were erected in 1842, at the sole expense of Mr. Robert Roberts, the proprietor, on a piece of land situated near Gallows-tree Bank turnpike gate, the original works in Willow-Street having long before been found too small and inconvenient to meet the increasing requirements of the town. The new works were built on an extended scale, and comprise a retort-house, purifying house, with a large tank and gasometer. The apparatus is of the usual character, including condenser, purifier, scrub, with

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THE THEATRE

THE THEATRE

Is a small neat building in Willow-Street, but is not often occupied. It is the property of William Ormsby Gore, Esq., who, when he built it, doubtless considered he was providing means of rational entertainment for the inhabitants. But Melpomene and Thalia have lost their charms in this district; and the immortal works of Shakspeare, Jonson, Fletcher, Massinger, Colman, Sheridan, Knowles, Bulwer, and others, are doomed to shed their fragrance only in the library or study. Thirty years ago th

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THE HOTELS.

THE HOTELS.

The principal Hotels in the town are, the Cross Keys, the Wynnstay Arms, the Queen’s Head, and Osburn’s Commercial. All these Hotels are well-conducted, and are much frequented by commercial travellers, private families, and tourists through the Principality and Border Lands....

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Educational Institutions.

Educational Institutions.

The Free Grammar School This ancient and valuable institution was founded and endowed in the reign of Henry IV., between 1399 and 1413, by Mr. David Holbetche, “a lawyer, steward of the towne and lordship,” and who in the same reign was “made a denizen or free citizen of England.” The munificent founder granted, for the maintenance of a schoolmaster, and the reparation of the school-house, certain lands in Sweeney, Treflach, Maesbury, and Crickheath, in addition to a house on the south-west sid

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DISPENSARY AND BATHS.

DISPENSARY AND BATHS.

The establishment of these two institutions is honourable to the founders, and, we are glad to observe, of great benefit to the poor and needy afflicted with disease. The origin of both is part of the annals of the town, and claims especial record in our volume. We find that in the year 1828 a meeting of the leading gentlemen of Oswestry was held, for the purpose of endeavouring to establish a Dispensary. That assembly was presided over by William Ormsby Gore, Esq., and the benevolent institu

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THE HOUSE OF INDUSTRY,

THE HOUSE OF INDUSTRY,

Situated on elevated ground near the river Morda, on the road from Oswestry to Welshpool, was erected by virtue of an Act of Parliament obtained in the year 1790, and opened for the reception of inmates April 28th, 1791. The first steward and matron were Mr. Thos. Cooper and Mrs. Cooper, who held those responsible situations for the long period of nearly thirty years. Directors were appointed, under the Act, to manage the affairs of the institution, on behalf of Oswestry town and parish, and t

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CHARITABLE DONATIONS TO THE POOR.

CHARITABLE DONATIONS TO THE POOR.

In the present age the good old-fashioned mode of bequeathing some portion of worldly substance for the education or relief of the poor is recognized by very few of our wealthier fellow-countrymen. The usual channels of relief to the poor and needy—the Poor-Law Union, the Night Asylum, the Good Samaritan Society, and other institutions of like class—are excellent in their way, and diffuse much benefit and comfort among the aged and indigent; but still our ancient charities, especially our schoo

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LIST OF CHARITIES FOR THE USE OF THE CHURCHWARDENS, CONSISTING OF SUCH ONLY AS ARE PAID TO AND DISTRIBUTED BY THEM.

LIST OF CHARITIES FOR THE USE OF THE CHURCHWARDENS, CONSISTING OF SUCH ONLY AS ARE PAID TO AND DISTRIBUTED BY THEM.

Yale’s; Morris’s; Witcherley’s; Sontley’s; Donor unknown, (Owen?) Land in Beatrice Street; Muckleston Allen’s; Lloyd and Peacock’s; Muckleston’s (Poor of Oswestry); Margaret Lloyd’s; Elizabeth Williams’s (Mixon Hall); Rebecca Lloyd’s (Freeman). Morgan’s; Gough’s; Winifred Matthews’s; Turner’s; Sir William Williams’s. Elizabeth Williams’s (Croft at Croes-Wylan); Jeffreys’s. Within the Hundred of Oswestry, was established in or about the year 1812, by the late Rev. C. A. A. Lloyd, Rector of Whitti

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THE PARISH CHURCH.

THE PARISH CHURCH.

This ancient fabric, though having no pretensions to beauty of architecture, externally or internally, yet, from its size and the massiveness of its ivy-mantled tower, has a venerable and somewhat imposing aspect. Girded on the west side by noble elm trees, and on the north by an avenue of limes, its tower presents on every side an object of much interest in the surrounding country. The eye even of the casual observer cannot fail to remark how much the fabric has suffered in former times, litt

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TRINITY CHURCH.

TRINITY CHURCH.

Trinity Church The great want of accommodation for the poor in the Parish Church led to the building of another church, in the outskirts of the town, in the year 1835. This church, dedicated to the Holy Trinity , was consecrated by the Bishop of St. Asaph (Dr. Carey) in 1837, and a district, consisting of the wards of Leg-Street and Beatrice Street, in the town, and of the townships of Middleton, Hisland, Wootton, Aston., and Maesbury, has since been formed for it by the Church Commissioners.

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TREFONEN CHURCH.

TREFONEN CHURCH.

To meet the wants of the Welsh population of the parish, a church was built in the township of Trefonen, and consecrated in the year 1821; and in 1842 a district was assigned to it, by an Order in Council bearing date August 27th, consisting of the three townships of Trefonen, Treflach, and Treferclawdd. In 1851 this district contained 319 houses, and 1233 inhabitants—viz., 589 males and 644 females. Trefonen Church, which is capable of containing about 500 persons, was built on a piece of land

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RHYDYCROESAU CHURCH.

RHYDYCROESAU CHURCH.

In addition to the above means of providing church accommodation to the inhabitants of the parish, an additional advantage has been gained by annexing the two Welsh townships of Pentregaer and Cynynion to the new church at Rhydycroesau. This church is situated on the high road to Llansilin, about three and a half miles from the town of Oswestry. It owes its foundation to the Rev. G. N. K. Lloyd, late Rector of Selattyn, who contributed liberally himself, and, with the co-operation of the first

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LIST OF VICARS.

LIST OF VICARS.

David Owain Rector of Whittington 1532, and Prebendary of Myfod 1534 instituted 1534 Peter Brereton 1537 John Price, L.L.B. He became Prebendary of Myfod 1558, and Chancellor 1559. 1552 William Owen 1583 William Horton 1587 Thomas Somerfield 1588 John Bagshaw Rector of Whittington 1588. 1591 William Morgan Vicar of Pool 1575. 1599 Richard Pagot 1602 Nathaniel Tattersall (deprived) 1603 Richard Muckleston 1612 John Kyffin, B.D. 1625 Humphrey Wynne 1639 Rowland Nevet, A.M. Ejected by the Act of Un

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Dissenting Places of Worship.

Dissenting Places of Worship.

The Congregational Church of Protestant Dissenters now assembling in the Old Chapel, Arthur-Street, was formed in the township of Sweeney, in the year 1662, and the Rev. Rowland Nevet, A, M., ejected from the vicarage of Oswestry by the Act of Uniformity, was its first pastor. Mr. Nevet laboured in the ministry for thirty years; seventeen as a clergyman of the established church, and thirteen as a dissenting preacher. Calamy, in his “ Nonconformists’ Memorial ,” mentions to his honour, that wh

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ALDERMEN AND COMMON-COUNCILMEN.

ALDERMEN AND COMMON-COUNCILMEN.

ALDERMEN—1835: John Jones Richard Croxon Thomas Morris Peploe Cartwright T. L. Longueville John Jones, jun. COUNCILLORS—1835: EAST WARD. John Croxon Francis Campbell George D. Owen Francis Lucas Griffith Evans James Howell Richard Bill William Price William Roberts WEST WARD. John Hayward Thomas Rogers Edward D. Bennion Charles Thomas Jones John Jones, jun. Charles Sabine William Williams James Williams Thomas Penson COUNCILLORS—1836: John Miles Hales Robert Edwards John Croxon Francis Campbell

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OSWESTRY CASTLE.

OSWESTRY CASTLE.

Our readers will have already learnt that Oswestry, from an early period in the history of the nation, bore no undistinguished part. Fixed in the midst of an arena of fierce and convulsive conflicts for many ages; its early state of warlike defence, rendered so complete by the sagacious Edward I., and forming a powerful post on the Border Lands, the eyes of monarchs and their gallant nobles were frequently directed towards it for succour or defence. The Castle, in its primitive state, may have

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ANCIENT HOUSES.

ANCIENT HOUSES.

There are still remaining several ancient timber houses, to mark the architecture of bye-gone times. Among these are, the Three Tuns public-house, in Bailey-Street, and an antique edifice forming the angle of Bailey-Street and Cross-Street, in front of which is the figure of a spread eagle, raised on the plaster, and supposed to have been the residence of the Lloyds, of Trenewydd, who bore the eagle in their coat of arms. The Three Tuns was a popular house in former days, and was the resort of

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OSWALD’S WELL

OSWALD’S WELL

Is one of the most interesting objects of the town. It is beautifully situated to the west of the Free Grammar School, and has easy and pleasant approaches to it from Upper Brook-Street and from Willow-Street. The Well is supplied by a spring flowing from the elevated ground beyond it. It is inclosed in a small square basin, in a recess made of stone, and arched over. At the back there is a sculptured head of King Oswald, once “banded by a royal fillet,” and formerly the front of the Well wa

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ANCIENT CUSTOMS.

ANCIENT CUSTOMS.

In a work partly descriptive of the Border Lands of England and Wales, it might be deemed a reproach were we silently to pass by the customs that once prevailed in the district. Many of those ancient customs were innocent and harmless in their character, whilst others were connected with superstition which kept the people in mental darkness, and impeded the free course of education and knowledge. Our notice of these customs will be brief, for they are no longer observed in the town, and but sl

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EXTENSION LINE FROM OSWESTRY TO WELSHPOOL AND NEWTOWN.

EXTENSION LINE FROM OSWESTRY TO WELSHPOOL AND NEWTOWN.

Whilst this volume was passing through the press a successful effort was made in carrying through Parliament a Bill for extending a line of railway through part of Montgomeryshire, commencing by a junction with the Shrewsbury and Chester Section of the Great Western Railway. The Bill was introduced into the House of Commons in the early part of the present Session of Parliament (1855), and passed through the various stages of that branch of the Legislature without opposition. In the House of L

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POPULATION.

POPULATION.

The population of the town and parish, in 1801, amounted to 5,839; and the number of houses, 788. In 1811 the population of the town and parish had increased to 6,733. In 1821 the returns showed that the population of the town and parish was still on the increase, the number of males and females being 7,523. The population of the town and liberties, in June, 1831, was—males, 2,007; females, 2,471; total, 4,478. The return further showed that the number of houses in course of being built, was

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AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.

AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS.

A return was made in 1854, giving the following details on agriculture, in reference to Oswestry Town and Liberties, Oswestry Parish, and other parishes within the Hundred:— The total number of acres occupied in the Town and Liberties of Oswestry, the Parish of Oswestry, Llansilin, Llanyblodwel, Selattyn, Llwyntidman, Sychtyn, St. Martin’s, Chirk, Whittington, Felton, Ruyton, Knockin, and Kinnerley, was 78,301; sown with wheat, 7,909 acres; with barley, 6,512; oats, 2,924; rye, 39¾; beans and pe

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ANGLING.

ANGLING.

Oswestry has no rivers immediately contiguous to it, but at short and easily-approachable distances are several, namely, the Severn , the Vyrnwy , the Tanat , the Dee , the Ceiriog , the Perry , the Morlas , and the Morda . The Severn has its rise from a small lake, on the eastern side of Plinlimmon, whence it flows in a devious direction, under the Welsh name of Hafren , to Newtown, whence it assumes its English name of Severn, and pursues its circuitous route to Shrewsbury. From its source t

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Botany of the Parish.

Botany of the Parish.

We are indebted to the Rev. Thomas Salwey , Vicar of Oswestry, for the subjoined interesting paper on the Botany of the Parish. It gives evidence of his ardent attachment to this pleasing branch of Natural History, and its publication may lead others to follow his example, in studying a science which delightfully leads the mind of its possessor to an increased admiration of the beauty and wisdom of the Creator’s marvellous works:— “By cooling streams and softening showers The vegetable race

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Geology, &c.

Geology, &c.

The town of Oswestry is situated upon and near the southern termination of the North Wales Coal Field, which extends a little farther south of the town, and, north-west, through Ruabon, Brymbo, Flint, Mostyn, and on to the sea, near the Great Ormshead. Running parallel, and lying at the back, or to the west of these coal-measures, is the great belt of mountain limestone, commencing at Llanymynech Hill, and extending also, north-westerly, to the Ormshead, and from thence dipping into the sea. Th

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Biography.

Biography.

Oswestry , although not the birth-place of many distinguished men, has amongst its present population some “choice spirits,” men born not, perhaps, to wield “the fierce democracy,” or to attract the nation’s glare by the display of brilliant talents, yet who possess the happy art of imparting sterling benefits to their fellow-men, and scattering blessings all around them. We could point to gentlemen, still honourably connected with the borough, whose good names must be well-deserved, because th

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Poor Rate Return. OSWESTRY TOWN AND PARISH (1855.)

Poor Rate Return. OSWESTRY TOWN AND PARISH (1855.)

Town and Parish. Acreage Gross Rental Rateable value assessed to the Relief of poor. A. R. P. £ S. D. £ S. D. Oswestry Town &amp; Liberties. 1753 2 24 16604 18 6 14933 13 0 Ditto Parish 13911 1 31 22280 20052 10 3 Sufficient has been said in these pages to justify much more extended notices than we can give to the ancient castles, fine old mansions, and modern residences of wealthy proprietors in this neighbourhood, imparting as they do so much additional beauty and interest to the bold and

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ASTON HALL,

ASTON HALL,

The seat of Mrs. Lloyd, widow of the late William Lloyd, Esq. It is situated on the right of the turnpike-road from Oswestry to Shrewsbury, about two miles distant from the former. The highly-respected family who have for so many years occupied this beautiful estate are of great antiquity, having descended from Einion, Prince of part of Powys, who distinguished himself in the wars against Henry I. Yorke, in his “ Royal Tribes of Wales ,” writing in 1799, has furnished a copious notice of the

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BRYNKINALT,

BRYNKINALT,

The seat of the Right Hon. Viscount Dungannon, is situated about a mile from Chirk, and one of the most picturesque mansions in the Principality. The house was built during the reign of James I., from a design by Inigo Jones, and is situated on the brow of a hill, at the foot of which flows the Ceiriog. The park is fine, and is divided by the river. On the site of this house formerly stood the residence of Tudor Trevor, a British nobleman who lived A.D. 924, the head of the tribe of March or

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CHIRK CASTLE,

CHIRK CASTLE,

The noble residence of Colonel Myddelton Biddulph, is situated near to Chirk, on elevated ground on the Berwyn range of hills, commanding delightful views of the surrounding scenery. It is a bold castellated mansion, built of grey stone, partly mantled with ivy, and is supposed to have been erected on the site of an ancient fortress called by the Welsh Castell Crogen , near which, as is recorded, the celebrated Battle of Crogen took place in 1164, when the Welsh fought with more than their usua

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HALSTON,

HALSTON,

The seat of Edmund Wright, Esq., was for several centuries the property of the Myttons. It is situated within a mile of Whittington, on the Oswestry and Ellesmere turnpike road. It is called in ancient deeds Haly-stone or Holy-stone . Near the house stood the abbey, taken down about a century and a half ago. The Rev. Peter Roberts says, “That it had been a sanctuary is evident. Meyric Lloyd, lord of some part of Uwch Ales , in the reign of Richard I., would not yield subjection to the Engli

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KNOCKIN.

KNOCKIN.

We briefly notice this place, from its antiquity, and having possessed a castle, erected in the reign of Henry II. Knockin is in the hundred of Oswestry, as already stated; is a rectory discharged, in the diocese of St. Asaph, and the deanery of Marchia. It is situated five and a half miles south-east of Oswestry. The origin of the name is not known. There is no mention of it in Domesday Book, nor in any of the British Chronicles before the Conquest. Camden refers to it but with brevity. T

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LLANYMYNECH

LLANYMYNECH

Is situated about six miles from Oswestry, on the turnpike-road leading from thence to Welshpool. The parish contains one township, Carreg Hofa (Offa’s stone,) which, although detached from, yet is within the county of Denbigh, but attached to Montgomeryshire for election and other purposes. The other two townships, Llwyntidman and Treprenal, are within the county of Salop, but on the borders of Montgomeryshire. The church is dedicated to St. Agatha. Patron,—the Bishop of St. Asaph. The pre

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LLANFORDA,

LLANFORDA,

The residence of the Right Hon. Sir Henry Watkin Williams Wynn, K.C.B. and G.C.H., is situated one mile and a half west of Oswestry. The original estate was part of the possession of Einion Evell, Lord of Cynllaeth and Mochnant, from whom it descended, together with Llwyn-y-Maen, to Ievan Vychan, constable of Knockin, whose heiress, Agnes, carried it into the family of the Lloyds, by her marriage with Maurice Lloyd, of whom the Welsh records give the following account:— “The said Maurice Lloyd

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LLANSILIN

LLANSILIN

Is situated in the county of Denbigh, but the parish being on the confines of Salop, and near to Oswestry, a brief notice here will not be inappropriate. The parish has numerous historical associations. It was the birthplace of Morris Kyffin, the learned translator into Welsh of Bishop Jewell’s Apology; of Charles Edwards, the pious author of “ Hanes-y-Fydd ,” a history of Christianity; of John Davies, author of “Heraldry Displayed;” and of Hugh Morris, the eminent Welsh poet and song-writer.

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LLANYBLODWEL,

LLANYBLODWEL,

Although now included in the county of Salop, is nevertheless on the borders of Montgomeryshire, and is in the diocese of St. Asaph. It is a rectory ( cum cap. Morton ), dedicated to St. Michael, and is valued in the King’s books at £39 5s. Patron, the Bishop of St. Asaph. It is situated six miles from Oswestry, on the east side of the river, below Abercynllaeth, and above Aber-tanat. In Domesday Book it is called Bodowan-ham , and in an old deed of the Fitz-Alans Blodwel (dated in the time

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PARK HALL,

PARK HALL,

In the parish of Whittington, the residence of Richard Henry Kinchant, Esq., is situated a little more than a mile east from Oswestry, and about the same distance from Whittington. It is one of those ancient timber mansions, few of which are now remaining in England, perhaps none in so perfect a state of preservation, and exhibits a fine specimen of the domestic architecture of bye-gone days. The estate on which it stands formed a portion, in ages past, of the once extensive and densely-wooded

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PORKINGTON,

PORKINGTON,

Situated about a mile from Oswestry, to the right of the road leading to the race-course, is the seat of William Ormsby Gore, Esquire, M.P. for North Shropshire. This delightful estate is associated with some of the most interesting incidents in the history of North Wales, and has for years been viewed as one of the great land-marks of the chequered history of the Welsh border. It derives its name from “Castell Brogyntyn,” a fortress of the celebrated Owen Brogyntyn, a natural son of Madog ab

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SELATTYN & HENGOED.

SELATTYN & HENGOED.

Or Sylattin, is a parish in the upper division of Oswestry, a rectory remaining in charge, in the diocese of St. Asaph and the deanery of Marchia. The village is situated about two miles from the Great Western Railway Station at Preesgwene, and three miles north-west of Oswestry. The population of the parish has greatly increased within the last forty years, much land, hitherto waste, has been brought into a profitable state of cultivation, and many neat and convenient cottages have been built

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ST. MARTIN’S

ST. MARTIN’S

Is a parish situated about five miles from, and in the hundred of Oswestry. It is a vicarage discharged, in the diocese of St. Asaph, and deanery of Marchia. The great tithes were given by one of the Fitz-Alans to the Monastery of Oswestry, Album-Monasterium . They afterwards became the property of the Duke of Powis, and now belong in part to Viscount Dungannon. The living is a vicarage, and is valued at £9 8s. 8d., but, having received Queen Anne’s Bounty, is discharged from payments. The

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WEST FELTON

WEST FELTON

Parish comprises many beautiful residences, including Pradoe , the seat of the Hon. Mrs. Kenyon (widow of the late Hon. Thomas Kenyon, third son of Chief Justice Lord Kenyon); Woodhouse , the fine old mansion of W. Mostyn Owen, Esq.; Tedsmere , a house belonging to T. B. Bulkley Owen, Esq.; and “ The Nursery ,” formerly the residence of J. F. M. Dovaston, Esq., but now possessed by John Dovaston, Esq., the inheritor of the Poet’s estates. The parish church is dedicated to St. Michael the Archan

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WHITTINGTON,

WHITTINGTON,

Is a charming village, possessing all the beauties which give pleasure to the lovers of inland rustic scenery. Picturesque cottages, neat dwellings for people in retired circumstances, good-looking farmers’ homesteads, the village church, in silent repose, surrounded by its grave-yard, and finally, the vestiges of its ancient Castle, once the baronial and stately residence of the renowned Norman Chief Fitz-Gwarine, and the scene of many a romantic story, give to Whittington village a lively int

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WYNNSTAY,

WYNNSTAY,

The beautiful seat of Sir W. W. Wynn, Bart., M.P. for Denbighshire, is within twenty minutes’ railway ride from Oswestry. The talent, wealth, and princely hospitality of the Wynnstay family have given to this mansion and its extensive domains a national celebrity. The late Sir W. W. Wynn (father of the present worthy baronet) did much to maintain the high character for hospitality and munificent liberality for which the House of Wynnstay has ever been distinguished, and his memory is embalmed

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CORRIGENDA. [296]

CORRIGENDA. [296]

Some few typographical and other errors have occurred in the progress of the volume, which we are anxious to correct. In page 210 , line 13, for “old transparent,” read “ cool transparent.” In page 223 , line 3, for “carbonate of zinc,” read “ carbonate and sulphuret of zinc.” In page 251 , line 4, for “Procapella de Coton,” read “ Pro capella de Coten .” In the List of Illustrations, for “Corn Market,” read “ Cross Market.”...

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THE POST-OFFICE.

THE POST-OFFICE.

Since our notice of the Post-Office was printed, a new postal arrangement has been made, by which Letters to the north and south can now be posted, without extra charge, till eight o’clock, p.m.; and, with an extra stamp, till half-past eight.—Money Orders can be obtained till 5, p.m.; and Letters registered till 7, p.m....

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THE UNITED KINGDOM TEMPERANCE AND GENERAL PROVIDENT INSTITUTION, FOR THE MUTUAL ASSURANCE OF LIVES, &c.,

THE UNITED KINGDOM TEMPERANCE AND GENERAL PROVIDENT INSTITUTION, FOR THE MUTUAL ASSURANCE OF LIVES, &c.,

1, Adelaide Place, London Bridge, London. Established 1840. ACCUMULATED CAPITAL , 125,000 . This flourishing Institution has just completed its financial year, within which it has accepted One Thousand Eight Hundred Proposals for Assurances, covering considerably more than a Quarter of a Million Sterling. It has issued 4,640 Policies, making, since its commencement, an aggregate of more than Ten Thousand . Its present income is above £45,000 per annum. It has paid in claims, chiefly to the Wi

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MR. JAMES EDISBURY, Auctioneer, Sworn Appraiser, Accountant, AND GENERAL VALUER, Wrexham.

MR. JAMES EDISBURY, Auctioneer, Sworn Appraiser, Accountant, AND GENERAL VALUER, Wrexham.

* * * All Sale Accounts immediately settled.—Valuations for the Probate of Wills and Administrations faithfully and promptly attended to....

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GEORGE LEWIS, Printer, Bookseller, Stationer, Bookbinder,

GEORGE LEWIS, Printer, Bookseller, Stationer, Bookbinder,

MACHINE RULER, &amp; NEWS AGENT, LEG STREET, OSWESTRY. ··························································· G. L. has constantly on hand a well-selected Stock of DAY BOOKS, JOURNALS, LEDGERS, And every description of ACCOUNT BOOKS. Bibles, Prayers, and Church Services, In the most elegant Bindings. SCHOOL BOOKS AND STATIONERY, ON THE LOWEST TERMS. A GREAT VARIETY OF CHEAP MUSIC, FINE ART, SCRIPTURAL, &amp; OTHER ENGRAVINGS, At very reduced prices. Magazines, Reviews, and all New W

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Foreign and British Wines and Spirits,

Foreign and British Wines and Spirits,

LONDON AND DUBLIN PORTER, AND MILD AND BITTER ALES, From the first Breweries in England. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ JOSEPH JONES . Being anxious to afford his friends and all respectable private families who may be kind enough to patronize him, an opportunity of having their requirements supplied upon the very best terms, begs to state that they may always rely upon an excellent Stock of all the above-mentioned of the most superior quality to select from, and which will be delivered without

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ROBERT ROBERTS,

ROBERT ROBERTS,

Gas Proprietor, Hydraulic Engineer, PLUMBER, GLAZIER, GAS-FITTER, &amp;c., Begs to return his most grateful thanks to his numerous friends and patrons for the very liberal support he has received the last half century, and begs to inform them and the Public generally, that he still continues the above business in all its branches as heretofore, and hopes to merit a share of their continued support. He has now on hand every requisite in the PLUMBING, GLAZING, and GAS-FITTING line. Also a lar

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WILLIAM CORNEY, Wholesale Dealer in Foreign and British Wines and Spirits,

WILLIAM CORNEY, Wholesale Dealer in Foreign and British Wines and Spirits,

MANUFACTURER OF Soda Water, Lemonade, &amp; Ginger Beer, Families and the trade supplied with WINES IN ANY QUANTITIES TO SUIT PURCHASERS. Either in Cask or Bottle . FRENCH BRANDY, GIN, RUM, WHISKEY, HOLLANDS, And all other Spirits, in quantities of two gallons and upwards. Parties purchasing as above will reap a decided advantage, both in quality and price, and a trial is most respectfully solicited. W. C. has constantly on hand at his CONFECTIONARY ESTABLISHMENT, a general assortment of pl

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William Williams,

William Williams,

1, KING ALFRED’S PLACE, Near Bingley, Hall, Broad-Street, Birmingham, MANUFACTURER OF IMPROVED BLINDS FOR SHOP FRONTS, SPRING ROLLERS, from 1 to 5in. diameter, NEW ROLLER FURNITURE, ON AN IMPROVED PRINCIPLE, ALL SIZES, Rollers and Iron Work for Bonnet Blinds, VENETIAN BLIND FURNITURE, Cornice Poles , with Rings , BLINDS FOR GREEN-HOUSES, SKY-LIGHTS, ETC., MAPS MOUNTED ON SPRING ROLLERS, In Boxes, and every other description of BLIND FURNITURE &amp; FITTINGS....

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ESTABLISHED A.D. 1803.

ESTABLISHED A.D. 1803.

J. EDISBURY, &amp; Co ., ( LATE RATCLIFFES ) Wholesale and Retail Tea Dealers, Family Grocers, CHEESE FACTORS, &amp;C., TOWN HILL, OPPOSITE THE TOWN HALL, WREXHAM....

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SALOP FIRE OFFICE, SHREWSBURY.

SALOP FIRE OFFICE, SHREWSBURY.

ESTABLISHED 1780. TRUSTEES: The Rt. Hon. the Viscount Hill, Lord Lieutenant of the County of Salop. Robert Burton, Esq. | George Pritchard, Esq. DIRECTORS: Jonathon Scarth, Esq. W. W. How, Esq. R. Jones, Croxon, Esq. Charles Wilding, Esq. J. J. Peele, Esq. W. H. Perry, Esq. Timotheus Burd, Esq. William Cooper, Esq. John Hazledine, Esq. Secretary —Mr. Edward B. Tipton. The advantages offered to Insurers are equal to those of similar Institutions, and a large PAID-UP Capital, together with the ind

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S. HOWARD COOMBES,

S. HOWARD COOMBES,

BOOT MANUFACTURER, CROSS STREET, OSWESTRY. AGENT TO THE TEMPERANCE PERMANENT LAND &amp; BUILDING SOCIETY....

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JOHN WINDSOR,

JOHN WINDSOR,

Agricultural Implement Manufacturer, Begs to call Public attention to his STOCK OF IMPLEMENTS, CONSISTING OF PATENT PLOUGHS AND HARROWS, CAMBRIDGES &amp; PLAIN LAND ROLLERS, SCARRIFIERS, Corn, Manure, Turnip, &amp; Clover Seed Drills, With the latest improvements. STEAM ENGINES, (PORTABLE OR FIXTURE,) PATENT THRASHING MACHINES, Of the most approved makes; WINNOWING MACHINES, AND CHAFF-CUTTERS OF VARIOUS KINDS. Wire-work of every kind executed on the shortest notice. N.B. — Agent for Miln

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EDWARD WYNNE THOMAS,

EDWARD WYNNE THOMAS,

Linen and Woollen Draper, Silk Mercer HABERDASHER, GROCER AND TEA DEALER, Oswestry, Invites the attention of the Public to the following announcements, viz:— IN GENERAL FANCY DRAPERY He has constantly in stock a large assortment of goods suitable to the various seasons, and is receiving from time to time the newest designs and styles as they appear. MILLINERY IN ALL ITS BRANCHES, TO ORDER. In Plain Goods for Furnishing and Household purposes, as well as for Personal Wear, He is particularly care

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LOCAL NEWS.

LOCAL NEWS.

THE ONLY NEWSPAPER THAT GIVES ALL THE LOCAL INTELLIGENCE OF THIS DISTRICT IS THE OSWESTRY ADVERTISER, Shropshire &amp; North Wales Herald, Published every Wednesday Morning . Each number contains the London markets of Monday, and the Liverpool of Tuesday, accurately reported; a summary of General News; Telegraphic Dispatches of Latest Intelligence; besides a quantity of Local News not to be found in any other paper. Orders for the Paper and Advertisements to be given to the Publisher, J. AS

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EDWARD DAVIES,

EDWARD DAVIES,

Confectioner, Pastry Cook, Biscuit Baker, And Dealer in all kinds of Fancy Cheese, CROSS STREET, OSWESTRY. BRIDE CAKES &amp; FUNERAL BISCUITS, On the shortest notice. SUPERIOR BRITISH WINES, JAMS, JELLIES, PICKLES &amp; SAUCES. Agent for the Dublin China Tea Company’s Teas. ,, Castle Lansdown &amp; Cos. celebrated Coffees. ,, Feast’s Superior Calfs’ Foot Jelly. Adcock’s celebrated Melton-Mowbray Pork Pies .— Oranges , Lemons , &amp;c....

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GEORGE LEWIS,

GEORGE LEWIS,

Law Stationer and Accountant, Leg Street, Oswestry....

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A. LYONS,

A. LYONS,

WATCHMAKER, Jeweller, Silversmith, and Optician, LEG-STREET, OSWESTRY, Respectfully announces that he has constantly on sale a large assortment of JEWELLERY, Of his own and foreign manufacture; also SPECTACLES, PRESERVERS, &amp; EYE-GLASSES, To suit all sights and ages, made on the premises, with the best Brazilian Pebbles &amp; Crystals. A. L. having been for many years practically engaged in the best houses on the Continent, is able to suit, at first glance, the sight of any person fro

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PARIS HOUSE,

PARIS HOUSE,

No. 1, Bailey Street, and 1, Market Street, OSWESTRY ....

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JOHN MORETON, LINEN & WOOLLEN DRAPER,

JOHN MORETON, LINEN & WOOLLEN DRAPER,

Begs to call the attention of the Public to the above establishment, where they may rely upon being supplied with every description of LINEN &amp; WOOLLEN DRAPERY, of the best quality, selected from the first manufactories, and OFFERED AT THE SMALLEST REMUNERATIVE PROFIT....

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