Wicksteed Park Vintage Photo Recoloured (1930)

 

The Cemetery Chronicles: Personal Reflections on Northamptonshire's Graveyards - #1 London Road Cemetery, Kettering

#1 London Road Cemetery, Kettering

As a deep-thinking introvert, I have always found solace and tranquillity amidst the peaceful serenity of graveyards. During the toughest times in my life, a long walk through a cemetery has always been my refuge, helping to clear my mind, ease my anxiety, and reduce my stress. Being surrounded by the graves of so many departed souls provides me with a sense of perspective, reminding me that the problems that seem so big and insurmountable in my life are truly insignificant in the grand scheme of things.

And how fortunate am I to have so many beautiful cemeteries sprinkled throughout Northamptonshire and the surrounding counties. Through research into my family tree, I discovered that many of my own ancestors are buried right under my nose, which only adds to the richness and depth of my cemetery explorations.

In the late summer of 2019, I acquired a van after six years without a car, and my cemetery explorations could take on a new level of adventure and excitement. With a belly full of roast chicken or pork, my partner and I set off on Sunday afternoons like two explorers on a quest for hidden treasure. We braved rain, snow, wind, heat waves, and rainbows, laughing, singing, and munching on boiled sweets as we ventured forth in search of new discoveries.

London Road Cemetery is a quiet sanctuary that holds a special place in my heart. It's the final resting place of my great-grandfather, who passed away in 1999, as well as dozens of other relatives, including a 5th great-grandfather. But what makes this cemetery truly memorable are the little moments that I've shared there.

One such moment was the time I stumbled upon a bin full of dog poo bags in different colours. Maybe it was because I was love drunk, but I found something oddly beautiful about the scene. My date couldn't stop laughing, and I felt a little foolish for finding humour in such a thing, but it's those silly moments that stay with you.

The cemetery is also where I had my most romantic date. My beloved and I enjoyed egg mayonnaise and tuna sandwiches while sitting on a tree stump, and that spot will forever be unofficially ours.

I've seen the cemetery in all seasons, from the vibrant colours of autumn to the blanket of snow in winter, and it's always beautiful. Even on blisteringly hot summer days, when everything looks and smells green, there's a certain magic to the cemetery that can't be denied. And in the springtime, when the flowers are in bloom and the air is alive with the chirping of birds, it's uplifting to stroll among the graves and reflect on the cycle of life. Through every season, London Road Cemetery is a place of peace and reflection, a reminder that even in death, there is beauty to be found.

I remember the time we watched an ancient tree being fell, the smell of fresh wood filling the air. It was like witnessing a piece of history being dismantled before our very eyes. And then there was the time we were followed by a curious cat, always one step behind us, like a feline guardian angel watching over us as we wandered through the peaceful grounds.

We saw some characters there, too. Mad Dog and his mad dog, always a fascinating sight, and the infamous Nathan, a man who seemed to know every inch of the cemetery like the back of his hand. And the time we found a bird that looked like something out of Alien. It was a strange and wondrous discovery that added to the otherworldly vibe of the place.

But perhaps what I cherish most about London Road Cemetery is the hundreds of walks I've taken there, especially during the times when walking was all I could do to escape the pain I felt after losing my children. The serenity and beauty of the cemetery always gave me a sense of solace and comfort, a reminder that life goes on, even when it seems like the world has stopped. London Road Cemetery will always hold a special place in my heart, a testament to the power of nature and the resilience of the human spirit.

James Thomas Miller (1876-1960): My Great Great Grandfather

James (Tom) Thomas Miller (1876-1960) lived a fascinating life that began in Warrenby Redcar, North Yorkshire on October 30th 1876. His family later returned to Burton Latimer, where a 14-year-old Tom worked as a riveter in the town's shoe trade. Tom was also a keen and talented footballer and was vice-captain of Burton Temperance FC, the town's oldest-known football team.

Tom married Annie (Fanny) Manning James in 1897, and they had their first two daughters while living at 37 Bayes Street in Kettering. After their marriage, they moved to Duke Street in Burton Latimer, and by 1911 they had moved to Finedon Street, where Tom worked in the shoe trade as a shoe laster.

During World War I, Tom enlisted with the Royal Navy and performed shore-based duties as an Aircraftsman in the Royal Naval Air Service at RNAS Wormwood Scrubs and RNAS Mullion. He was then absorbed into the newly formed Royal Air Force in 1918.

After the war, Tom returned to his wife and family in Burton Latimer and worked as a newsagent before buying the Burton Fish & Chip Shop, which he ran until passing it down to his youngest child. Tom was also known as "Old Tom" in later life, and he died in Kettering in 1960 at the age of 83.

I feel a strong connection to Tom, even though I never had the chance to meet him. Tom was a remarkable man who ran a fish and chip shop in Burton Latimer. It's surreal to think how often frequented the same place without knowing about his connection to it. I was also a football player, just like Tom, and had a successful stint as a professional for Rushden and Diamonds.

In addition to these similarities, I also did my work experience with the Royal Navy as a teenager, which is something that Tom might have found relatable as well. Although I never pursued it as a career, I considered it seriously for a while. Despite the fact that Tom lived in a different time and place, I feel a strong affinity for him because we share so much in common.

However, there is one significant difference between us that I cannot ignore: my skin colour. As a person of colour, I wonder what Tom would have thought about me and whether he would have accepted me as his descendant. While I can't know for sure, I still feel a deep sense of connection to him and the legacy he left behind.

The Life of James (Tom) Thomas Miller (1876-1960)

James (Tom) Thomas Miller (1876-1960) was born in Warrenby Redcar, North Yorkshire on October 30th 1876. Warrenby is a small town in present-day Redcar & Cleveland which was founded in 1873 to house workers at the nearby ironworks Downey & Co and Walker Maynard. It is believed that Tom’s father, Charles, was employed by one of these two companies. 

By 1881, Tom, his parents, and his many siblings had returned to Burton Latimer, to Nichol’s Yard on the High Street. They were still at Nichol’s Yard in 1891 when a 14-year-old Tom worked as a riveter in the town’s shoe trade. 

As a young man, Tom was a keen and talented footballer. He was vice-captain of Burton’s oldest-known football team - Burton Temperance FC. The picture below was taken at the end of the 1893/94 season. Tom is second left on the back row, and to his right is goalkeeper and captain William (Billy) Henry Perkins (1876-?) who went on to play for Liverpool FC, Luton Town FC and Northampton Town FC amongst other teams.

A quote from Tom was printed alongside the team photo in a newspaper article in c.1934.

 “Perhaps there was not the scope to show up in those days as there is today, as there were no League or Cups to play for. The only Cup, as far as I can remember, was one which Mr Bill Cattell gave, and which was played at the Kettering North Park grounds, which he used to own. We reached the semi-final on one occasion, but were beaten by Finedon Excelsiors, who went on to win the cup, beating the then-famous junior team, Kettering Vics. Probably the Finedon Excelsiors were the best junior team of all time. We had many strenuous games, and some exciting times, even in those days; but the Temperance eventually ceased to exist, and it became the Burton Vics., who took its place, and who also did well, winning the North Section of the Kettering United in the final by 1-0; and incidentally that goal came off my legs.”

Tom married Annie (Fanny) Manning James (1876–1963) at St Peter & Paul's Church in Kettering on April 19th 1897. Fanny was the daughter of  Edward James (1852-1881) and Mary Elson (1851-?) of Kettering. 

On their marriage documents, Tom & Fanny are both listed as living at 37 Bayes Street in Kettering. This suggests that Tom and Fanny may have lived together as an unmarried couple for a short time, with Fanny’s parents. After their marriage, they moved to Duke Street in Burton Latimer, where they can be found living in 1901 with their first two daughters -  Winifred (Winnie) Ellen Miller (1898–1977) and Gladys Ada Miller (1899–1985).

By 1911 the family had moved to Finedon Street in Burton Latimer, Tom still worked in the shoe trade, but now as a ‘shoe-laster’. At the outbreak of World War I in 1914, Tom enlisted with the Royal Navy. He completed basic training at Crystal Palace Naval Depot in London; performed shore-based duties as an Aircraftsman in the Royal Naval Air Service at RNAS Wormwood Scrubs in London and RNAS Mullion in Cornwall.

Whilst stationed at Mullion, as a Private, he was absorbed into the newly formed Royal Air Force on April 1st 1918. His enlistment record reveals many details about his physical appearance at the time  - he was 5 ft 6 inches tall, had brown eyes and grey hair, and his complexion was described as ‘fresh’. Tom’s chest measurement was 39 inches and he had a birthmark on his left shoulder.

The record also shows that Tom was engaged in hostilities on five occasions between 1917 and 1918, three times aboard HMS President II and twice aboard HMS Daedalus. Tom’s younger brother Samuel also served aboard these vessels at the same time. In Burton Latimer’s electoral rolls of 1918 Tom’s home address is listed as Roseberry Street and he is recorded as an ‘absent voter’. 

After the war, Tom returned to his wife and family in Burton Latimer, and they continued to live on Roseberry Street until at least 1934. During this time Tom worked as a newsagent at 58 High Street in Burton Latimer. 

By 1935 Tom and Fanny had bought 52/54 High Street - Burton Fish & Chip Shop - which they ran until 1940 when ownership of the chip shop was passed down to their youngest child, also called Tom. After leaving the chip shop the couple moved to 41 Queensway in Burton Latimer where they saw out their days. Whilst at this address the couple are known to have had a red setter called Jess, it is also known that Tom liked to smoke a pipe.

In later life Tom became known as Old Tom, partly to avoid confusion with his son who was also called Tom (James Thomas Miller). Old Tom died in Kettering on October 6th 1960, he was 83 years old. Fanny died nearly three years later in Wellingborough, together they had seven children:

The Murder of Andrew Bromley

Andrew George Bromley was my first cousin five times removed. He was the grandson of my fifth great-grandfather, James Nix (1768-1827) and was born in Dowsby, Lincolnshire, in 1819. Andrew, his wife Sarah, and their two children, Joseph and Mary Ann, emigrated to Australia in 1844.

The following newspaper articles tell the story of his untimely death.

Thursday 25th September 1862
Source: Sydney Empire

DEATH UNDER SUSPICIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES-
An inquest on the body of the man Andrew Bromley, which was
found on Monday morning in a well of water at Lane
Cove, was held yesterday before the City Coroner, at the
Red House, North Shore, The inquest occupied the
entire day. From the evidence adduced, it appeared that
deceased was a native of Lincolnshire, England, and
forty-two years of age. He was a sawyer by trade, and
during the last nineteen years resided with his wife and
eight children on his own property, at Lane Cove. His
mind at times became somewhat impaired. One day last
week he had some words with his eldest son, aged
eighteen, who assisted him in sawing, and who, owing to
the disagreement, left him, and went to work and reside
a short distance from home. They, however, became re-
conciled on the Wednesday preceding deceased's death.
Deceased was lately employed in breaking up some
ground for Mr. Thomas Waterhouse, publican, about a
mile and a half from his (deceased's) residence. He was
last seen alive about half past two on Friday afternoon; he
was then assisting to extinguish a bush fire which was
burning close by where he was working. There was ap-
parently nothing unusual the matter with him. Mr.
Waterhouse missed him about 8 o'clock, but thought
little of the circumstance. Deceased did not return
home, and about one o'clock on Sunday afternoon
his wife called on Mr. Waterhouse and
inquired after him. On being informed
when he had been last seen, she reported his absence to
the police. Search was made during the evening, but
without success. Some time before seven o'clock on
Monday morning, Mr. Waterhouse's son reported to con-
stable Dempsey that he had found deceased's hat (which,
had the finger-marks of blood) lying near two large pools
of blood, distant from the road about twenty feet, and
situated on an open space of ground known as Spencer's
Land. Dempsey proceeded to the spot described, and
saw two large quantities of coagulated blood, about three
feet apart. He detected foot prints, but no indication of a
struggle having taken place. With assistance, he searched
about, and some 200 yards from the spot, in a well con-.
taining twelve feet of water, found the body
of deceased. Slabs and poles were laid across
the well but sufficiently apart to allow a body to fall
through. On examining deceased after raising him from
the well, a severe cut was found to be inflicted over, the
joint of the left arm, about 2 3/4 inches in length, and,
from 1/4 to 3/4of an inch in depth. On his neck was found
a wound about five inches in length, extending from the
right to the left side. There were no marks of blood on,
his clothes. In his trousers pocket was found a pruning
knife (which he was in the habit of carrying about him)
the blade of which was well sharpened and
was closed. A spot of blood on the blade,
was the only sign discoverable about the body.
The water in the well was not discoloured.
Dr. Eichler who, with Dr. Ward, examined the body,
considered that the wound in the neck was inflicted by
a sharp instrument - the pruning knife would be capable
of inflicting it. The wound showed that three attempts
had been made. The first two only penetrated the skin;
tho third proved to be the deepest and longest, ending at
the left side of the larynx, cutting through the lingua,
artery, and severing the bone joining the tongue and
larynx, and opening the passage into the stomach. He
believed the immediate cause of death to be loss of
blood, and he expressed himself satisfied deceased was
immersed in water when dead, and he should say the
body was bloodless. There was no appearance that
death had been caused by suffocation. It was quite
possible for deceased to have inflicted the wounds. If a
man had lost blood at one particular spot......such
wounds would follow, as the wounds, would bleed a long,
time after being inflicted. A man would live from ten
to twelve minutes after receiving such wounds; he
thought it possible, but not probable, that a man, in
the state in which he would be in after receiving the
wounds, would walk 240 steps. The cut in, deceased's
throat was a determined one. Dr. Ward considered
that deceased, after receiving the wounds, did not pos-
sess either the mental or physical power to find his way
to a well between two and three hundred yards distant,
or to shut and place his knife in his pocket. The fol-
lowing verdict was returned by the jury ;-We find that
Andrew Bromley, aged 43 years, came by his death from
wounds, and chiefly from one inflicted in his throat.
There is no evidence before us to show how his body got
into the well, and that great suspicion and mystery is
attached to this man's death


Saturday 27th September 1862
Source:  The Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser (NSW : 1843 - 1893)

DEATH UNDER MYSTERIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES -
On Wednesday, the City Coroner held an inquest on the
body of Andrew Bromley who was supposed to have com-
mitted suicide at Lane Cove, by cutting his throat and
afterwards jumping into a well. It appeared from the
evidence that Bromley, who was a sawyer, was engaged
on Friday afternoon, while in the employ of Mr Water-
house, of Lane Cove, in putting out a bush fire; but
about three o'clock he was missed. Enquiries were made,
but nothing was heard or seen of the missing man till
Sunday, when his hat was found by a son of Mr. Water-
house. A further search was then made, and two
patches of dried blood, within three feet of each other,
were found. Near this spot were two wells, and on Mon-
day morning both these were sounded by Constable
Dempsey, Mr. Waterhouse, and Mr John Brown but no
traces of the deceased were discovered. At length more
spots of blood were found in the direction of another
well 240 yards distant, containing twelve feet of water ;
this well was dragged forthwith and in it the body was
found. The ground was carefully examined but no in-
dication of a scuffle, or the dragging of a body, could
be discovered. On examination a large wound was found
on the deceased's throat, by which the windpipe was
severed, and there was smaller wound below the elbow
on the left arm. In the deceased's trousers pocket was
found a pruning knife, on which were several spots of
blood. By the coroner's orders the body was removed
from Lane Cove to the police station at North Shore,
where it was examined by Dr. Fichler, in conjunction
with Dr. Ward. Upon minute examination it was found
that the wound in the throat consisted of three distinct
cuts, making a wound five inches in length. A post
mortem examination was also made, and from the ap-
pearances of the internal organs the medical men
were of opinion that death took place prior to the
immersion in the water. They also thought it ex-
ceedingly improbable that the man would have either
physical or mental strength enough to make his way
to a well a distance of two hundred and forty yards,
after the infliction of such wounds. The loss of blood
from those wounds would result in death in a few minutes,
according to the testimony of the medical men. It was
exceedingly questionable also whether the man could
shut up his knife and put it into his pocket after in-
dicting such frightful gashes on his throat. With regard
to the state of mind or the deceased man, it was stated
that he had been suffering from toothache and some
days previous to his death he had some quarrel with his
eldest son, who left home in consequence ; but it appeared
that this disagreement had subsequently been settled
amicably. The jury returned the following verdict:
" We find that the deceased Andrew Bromley, came by
his death from wounds chiefly from one inflicted in his
throat. We have no evidence before us to show how his
body got into the well, and that great suspicion and
mystery attached to this man's death." In consequences
of the mystery in which this case was involved, the hear-
ing of witnesses and cross-examination of the same lasted
the whole of the day.


Saturday 27th September 1862
Source:  The Sydney Morning Herald (NSW : 1842 - 1954)

The body of a man named Andrew Bromley has
been found in a well on at Lane Cove, with his
throat cut, and suspicion is excited that the deceased
has been murdered. The matter is now being enquired
into by the Coroner and police authorities.


Saturday 27th September 1862
Source:  The Maitland Mercury and Hunter River General Advertiser (NSW : 1843 - 1893)

DEATH UNDER MYSTERIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES -
On Wednesday, the City Coroner held an inquest on the
body of Andrew Bromley who was supposed to have com-
mitted suicide at Lane Cove, by cutting his throat and
afterwards jumping into a well. It appeared from the
evidence that Bromley, who was a sawyer, was engaged
on Friday afternoon, while in the employ of Mr Water-
house, of Lane Cove, in putting out a bush fire; but
about three o'clock he was missed. Enquiries were made,
but nothing was heard or seen of the missing man till
Sunday, when his hat was found by a son of Mr. Water-
house. A further search was then made, and two
patches of dried blood, within three feet of each other,
were found. Near this spot were two wells, and on Mon-
day morning both these were sounded by Constable
Dempsey, Mr. Waterhouse, and Mr John Brown but no
traces of the deceased were discovered. At length more
spots of blood were found in the direction of another
well 240 yards distant, containing twelve feet of water ;
this well was dragged forthwith and in it the body was
found. The ground was carefully examined but no in-
dication of a scuffle, or the dragging of a body, could
be discovered. On examination a large wound was found
on the deceased's throat, by which the windpipe was
severed, and there was smaller wound below the elbow
on the left arm. In the deceased's trousers pocket was
found a pruning knife, on which were several spots of
blood. By the coroner's orders the body was removed
from Lane Cove to the police station at North Shore,
where it was examined by Dr. Fichler, in conjunction
with Dr. Ward. Upon minute examination it was found
that the wound in the throat consisted of three distinct
cuts, making a wound five inches in length. A post
mortem examination was also made, and from the ap-
pearances of the internal organs the medical men
were of opinion that death took place prior to the
immersion in the water. They also thought it ex-
ceedingly improbable that the man would have either
physical or mental strength enough to make his way
to a well a distance of two hundred and forty yards,
after the infliction of such wounds. The loss of blood
from those wounds would result in death in a few minutes,
according to the testimony of the medical men. It was
exceedingly questionable also whether the man could
shut up his knife and put it into his pocket after in-
dicting such frightful gashes on his throat. With regard
to the state of mind of the deceased man, it was stated
that he had been suffering from toothache and some
days previous to his death he had some quarrel with his
eldest son, who left home in consequence ; but it appeared
that this disagreement had subsequently been settled
amicably. The jury returned the following verdict:
" We find that the deceased Andrew Bromley, came by
his death from wounds chiefly from one inflicted in his
throat. We have no evidence before us to show how his
body got into the well, and that great suspicion and
mystery attached to this man's death." In consequences
of the mystery in which this case was involved, the hear-
ing of witnesses and cross-examination of the same lasted
the whole of the day



Wednesday 1st October 1862
Source: Sydney Empire

SIR,- With REFERENCE to certain resolutions published in
yesterday's issue, respecting the death of one Andrew
Bromley, whose body was discovered in a well at Lane
Cove, and, as the, City Coroner alleged, under suspicious
circumstances, allow me, through your columns, first of
all, to inquire whether it would not have been the duty
of the Coroner to have attended at the nearest place to
where the body in question was found to hold the inquest.

2nd. Whether to suit the particular convenience and
fancy of a public servant, the body should have been re-
moved seven miles at all, and more particularly at this
particular time of the year, and that after the body had
laid in a well for so considerable a time; or whether
this Government official should attend at the nearest,
convenient place to hold such inquest, and where all
necessary evidence could have been obtained, and the
matter perhaps finally concluded.

3rd. The questions that the residents of Lane Cove are
desirous of ascertaining is, whether, if the Coroner had
noted judiciously and visited the scene of the alleged,
murder, where the whole, facts and evidence could have
been elicited, would the son, who is now (and I unhesi-
tatingly assert) illegally imprisoned, be placed in the
humiliating position of an alleged murderer.
I shall have something further to add at the conclusion
of this (to me) most arbitrary and illegal proceeding,
when facts undeniable will convince the most sceptical of
the grossness of the judgement on the part of the powers
that be in this particularly painful scene.
I am, Sir, your obedient servant,
F.W.CROFT

Wednesday 1st October 1862
Source: Sydney Empire

Joseph Bromley, aged 17, remanded from the 26th in-
stant on suspicion of having, at Lane Cove, unlawfully
killed and murdered one Andrew Bromley, his father,
was further remanded until Thursday next.


Friday 3rd October 1862
Source:  The Courier (Brisbane, Qld. : 1861 - 1864) 

An inquest was held on Wednesday, at the
North Shore, on the body of tho man named
Andrew Bromley, who was supposed to have
committed suicide, by cutting his throat,
and afterwards jumping into a well. The
circumstances were very suspicions, the
surgical evidence going to show that death
probably took place before the immersion of
the body. Blood was found at a distance
of 240 yards from tho well, and two pro-
fessional men stated that it was very im-
probable the deceased could walk that dis-
tance after receiving tho wound. The jury
returned a verdict of death under very sus-
picious "circumstances.


Friday 3rd October 1862
Source: Sydney Morning Herald

WATER POLICE COURT.
THURSDAY.
BEFORE the Water Police Magistrate, and Messrs. T.
Spence and R. P. Raymond.
Joseph Bromley, on remand, was again brought up
suspected of having murdered Andrew Bromley, his
father, at Lane Cove. After the hearing of additional
evidence, prisoner was again remanded until this day.


Friday 3rd October 1862
Source: Sydney Empire

Joseph Bromley, aged 17, remanded from Tuesday

last, on suspicion of having, at Lane Cove, unlawfully

killed and murdered Andrew Bromley, his father, was

after the receipt of further evidence again remanded

until to-morrow (this) morning.

Saturday 4th October 1862
Source:  The Age (Melbourne, Vic. : 1854 - 1954)

UNDER MYSTERIOUS CIRCUMSTANCES. — SUS-

PICION OF MURDER. —

In our issue of Tuesday last we published some particulars 

of the finding, in a well at Lane Cove, of the body of a man 

named Andrew Bromley, who was supposed to have committed

suicide by cutting his throat and afterwards jumped into a well. 

An inquest on the body was held by the City Coroner, at the Red House

Inn, North Shore (whither the body had been removed)

yesterday, when the following facts were elicited. The

deceased was forty three years of age, a native of Lincoln-

shire, England, and had been nineteen years in the colony,

during the whole of which time he had resided in the Lane

Cove district. He was a sawyer by trade, but lived with

his wife and family of nine children on some

sixteen acres of his own freehold land. He was

usually temperate in his habits. Latterly he com-

plained of the heat of the sun on his head, and it was frequently 

observed that when he returned from work his face was flushed. 

On Friday last he was employed by a Mr. Waterhouse, publican,

 of Lane Cove, to break up some ground, about a mile and a half 

from his(Bromley's) residence. In the afternoon of the same day

he was engaged in putting out a bush fire near the spot

where he had been working, and at about three o'clock in

the afternoon he was missed. Inquiries were made, but

nothing was heard or seen of the missing man till Sunday,

when his hat was found by a son of Mr. Waterhouse. A

further search was then made, and two patches of dried

blood within three feet of each other, were found. Near

this spot were two wells, and on Monday

morning both these were sounded by constable

Dempsey, Mr. Waterhouse, and Mr. John Brown,

but no traces of the deceased were discovered. At length

more spots of blood were found in the direction of another

well 240 yards distant, containing twelve feet of water; this

well was dragged forthwith, and in it the body was found.

The ground was carefully examined, but no indication of a

scuffle, or the dragging of a body, could be discovered. On

examination a large wound was found on the deceased's

throat, by which the windpipe was severed, and there was a

smaller wound below the elbow on the left arm. In the

deceased's trousers pocket was found a pruning knife, on

which were several spots of blood. By the coroner's orders

the body was removed from Lane Cove to the police station

at North Shore, where it was examined by Dr. Eichler, in

conjunction with Dr. Ward. Upon minute examination it

was found that the wound in the throat consisted of three

distinct cuts, making a wound five inches in length. A

post mortem examination was also made, and from the

appearances of the internal organs the medical men were of

opinion that death took place prior to the immersion in

the water. They also thought it exceedingly improbable

that the man would have either physical or mental strength

enough to make his way to a well, a distance of 240 yards,

after the infliction of such wounds. The loss of blood from

those wounds would result in death in a few minutes,

according to the testimony of the medical men. It was

exceedingly questionable also whether the man could shut

up his knife and put it into his pocket after inflicting such

frightful gashes on his throat. With regard to the state of

mind of the deceased man, it was stated that he had been

suffering from toothache, and some days previous to his

death he had some quarrel with his eldest son, who left

home in consequence ; but it appeared that this disagree-

ment had subsequently been settled amicably. The jury

returned the following verdict :—" We find that the de-

ceased Andrew Bromley came by his death from wounds,

chiefly from one inflicted in his throat. We have no evi-

dence before us to show how his body got into the well, and

that great suspicion and mystery attaches to this man's

death." In consequence of the mystery in which this case 

was involved the hearing of witnesses and cross examina-

tion of the same lasted the whole of the day, and there are

three cases for the coroner to-day.

Wednesday 8th October 

Source:  Rockhampton Bulletin and Central Queensland Advertiser (Qld. : 1861 - 1871)

DEATH AT LANE COVE- Yesterday morning,

(Sep. 22) the body of Andrew Bromley, a saw-

yer, long resident in this district, was discovered

in a well of water on the property of the late

Mr. Spencer. His throat was cut apparently

twice-first rather high in front, and subse

quently a knife appeared to have been buried in

the right side of neck. There was also a long

cut on his left arm, as though he had attempted

to sever the blood vessels in that limb. He

was dragged from the bottom of the well, which

contained about twelve feet of water. Much

blood was found at a distance of 400 yards from

the well, but none was found in the intermediate

space. Bromley was about forty-five years of

age. and was last seen on Friday. A pruning

knife was found in his pocket. A post mortem

examination was made at the inquest, held on

the following day, when, from the appearances

of the internal organs the medical men were

of opinion that death took place prior to the

immersion in the water. They also thought it

exceedingly improbable that the man would have

either physical or mental strength enough to

make his way to a well, a distance of 240 yards,

after the infliction of such wounds. The loss of

blood from those wounds would result in death

in a few minutes, according to the testimony of

the medical men. It was exceedingly question-

able also whether the man could shut up his

knife and put it into his pocket after inflicting

such frightful gashes on his throat. It appears

that deceased had been in a state of mental de-

pression in consequence of his son having left

him, as they could not agree : but this disagree-

ment had subsequently been settled amicably.

The jury returned the following verdict ;-- "We

find that the deceased, Andrew Bromley, came

by his death from wounds, chiefly from one in-

flicted in his throat. We have no evidence be-

fore us to show how his body got into the well,

and that great suspicion and mystery attaches to

this man's death."

Saturday 11th October 1862
Source: Sydney Empire

Joseph Bromley, in custody on suspicion of murdering
his father, Andrew Bromley, at Lane Cove, was dis-
charged, no evidence tending in any way to criminate
him, having been accused.

Wednesday 15th October 1862
Source: Goulburn Herald

The boy, Joseph Bromley, who was apprehended
on suspicion of having murdered his father, at Lane
Cove, was discharged on Thursday, there being no
evidence to criminate him.

Thursday 16th October 1862
Source: The Golden Age

The boy, Joseph Bromley, who was ap
prehended on suspicion of having mur
dered his father at Lane Cove, was dis
charged on Thursday, there being no
evidence to criminate him.

Tuesday October 21st 1862
Source: Sydney Empire

An inquest was held on Wednesday, at the North
Shore, on the body of a man named Andrew Bromley,,
who was supposed to have committed suicide, by cutting
his throat, and afterwards jumping into a well. The
circumstances were very suspicious, the surgical evidence
going to show that death probably took place before the
immersion of the body. Blood was found at a distance
of 240 yards from the well, and two professional men
stated that it was very improbable the deceased could
walk that distance after receiving the wound.
The jury returned a verdict of death under very suspi-
cious circumstances.

Thursday 6th November 1862
Source: Sydney Morning Herald

ANDREW BROMLEY.

Dr, LANG asked the Colonial Secretary, "Whether the

Government have made, or intend making any inquiries in

reference to the case detailed in a petition, presented by

himself from a numerous body of landholders and residents

of Lane Cove, complaining of certain circumstances con-

nected with the discovery of, and the inquest held by the

City Coroner on, the dead body of Andrew Bromley, at

Lane Cove, and praying investigation ?"

Mr. COWPER explained that, without reference to the

petition, an inquiry had taken place, but the Coroner's jury

were unable to decide from the evidence the

circumstances under which Bromley met his

death. A son of the deceased was held in cus-

tody afterwards by order of the Water Police Magistrate,

but there being no evidence against him, he was discharged.

The whole case appeared to be enveloped in mystery, and

in order if possible to have it cleared up, the Government

had come to the determination of offering a reward for the

discovery of the persons, if any, concerned in the outrage.

Friday 30th November 1883
Source:  The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922)

POLICE COURT—ADELAIDE.
THIS DAY.
Friday, November 30.
[Before Mr, S. Beddome, P.M.]
Joseph Bromley was lined 10s. for being
drunk while in charge, of a. horse and cart.
Bromley was ; further charged with using a
horse, and vehicle without the consent of the
owner. The cart, which was left outside a
shop in the Central Market, was subsequently
found in the possession of the prisoner, who
was intoxicated at the time. Fined 20s. and
costs.

Wednesday 23rd September 1885
Source: Sydney Evening News

Joseph Bromley, 41, a farmer, was fined 10s or two days' imprisonment, for having been drunk in the Lane Cove road

Wednesday 2nd February 1887
Source:  The Express and Telegraph (Adelaide, SA : 1867 - 1922)


Joseph Bromley was charged with having on
February 1 stolen from the till of Sarah Ann
Wylde money to the value of 8s, Complainant,
landlady of the Wellington Inn, stated that
defendant came into her bar yesterday and
asked for and obtained some liquor.
After having drunk this he sat down
in a corner of the bar and seemingly
went to sleep. Complainant went away and
left her daughter in charge of the bar. The
latter witness stated that while she was in the
bar defendant leaned over the counter and took
some money from the till. He then ran out,
and on being asked what he had taken he re
plied, "Nothing." When he was arrested
and searched 10s. were found in his clothes.
In court he pleaded guilty and was sentenced
to six months' imprisonment with hard labour.


-----




Fanny Kirby was housekeeper to Joseph Bromley and Susan Linigan. After Susan died, Fanny stayed on to help Joseph take care of the children. Joseph and Fanny had 7 children. All the 7 children of this relationship are listed with no father registered at BDM. There is no record of a marriage in New South Wales.

The Turners of Kettering

The Parish Church of SS Peter and Paul, Kettering, viewed from Sheep Street. (2017) Photo: Chlo

In Kettering, Northamptonshire, the Turner family thrived for nine generations. The lineage began with the weaver, Edward Turner, born in the late 18th century. The Parish Church of SS Peter and Paul in Kettering holds records of Edward's marriage to Mary Underwood in 1782, marking the first known appearance of the Turners in the town. Their daughter Hannah was baptized there in 1785, but the fate of the girl remains unknown. Edward and Mary went on to have eight more children. The Turner surname lasted until the passing of my grandfather, Terence Walter Turner, in 2000, whose only child was a daughter that later took on a new name.

The Parish Church of SS Peter and Paul, Kettering, viewed from Market Walk. (2017) 

Chapel of Rest, London Road Cemetery, Kettering. Graveyard of SS Peter and Paul. (2017) 

Old Tom Miller 1876-1960

James (Tom) Thomas Miller (1876-1960) was born in Warrenby Redcar, North Yorkshire on October 30th 1876. Warrenby is a small town in present-day Redcar & Cleveland which was founded in 1873 to house workers at the nearby ironworks Downey & Co and Walker Maynard. It is believed that Tom’s father, Charles, was employed by one of these two companies.

By 1881, Tom, his parents, and his many siblings had returned to Burton Latimer, to Nichol’s Yard on the High Street. They were still at Nichol’s Yard in 1891 when a 14-year-old Tom worked as a riveter in the town’s shoe trade.

As a young man Tom was a keen and talented footballer. He was vice-captain of Burton’s oldest known football team - Burton Temperance FC. The picture below was taken at the end of the 1893/94 season. Tom is second left on the back row, to his right is goalkeeper and captain William (Billy) Henry Perkins (1876-?) who went on to play for Liverpool FC, Luton Town FC and Northampton Town FC amongst other teams.

A quote from Tom was printed alongside the team photo in a newspaper article in c.1934.

“Perhaps there was not the scope to show up in those days as there is today, as there were no League or Cups to play for. The only Cup, as far as I can remember, was one which Mr. Bill Cattell gave, and which was played at the Kettering North Park grounds, which he used to own. We reached the semi-final on one occasion, but were beaten by Finedon Excelsiors, who went on to win the cup, beating the then famous junior team, Kettering Vics. Probably the Finedon Excelsiors were the best junior team of all time. We had many strenuous games, and some exciting times, even in those days; but the Temperance eventually ceased to exist, and it became the Burton Vics., who took its place, and who also did well, winning the North Section of the Kettering United in the final by 1-0; and incidentally that goal came off my legs.”

Tom married Annie (Fanny) Manning James (1876–1963) at St Peter & Paul's Church in Kettering on April 19th 1897. Fanny was the daughter of  Edward James (1852-1881) and Mary Elson (1851-?) of Kettering.

On their marriage documents, Tom & Fanny are both listed as living at 37 Bayes Street in Kettering. This suggests that Tom and Fanny may have lived together as an unmarried couple for a short time, with Fanny’s parents. After their marriage, they moved to Duke Street in Burton Latimer, where they can be found living in 1901 with their first two daughters -  Winifred (Winnie) Ellen Miller (1898–1977) and Gladys Ada Miller (1899–1985).

By 1911 the family had moved to Finedon Street in Burton Latimer, Tom still worked in the shoe trade, but now as a ‘shoe-laster’. At the outbreak of World War I in 1914, Tom enlisted with the Royal Navy. He completed basic training at Crystal Palace Naval Depot in London; performed shore-based duties as an Aircraftsman in the Royal Naval Air Service at RNAS Wormwood Scrubs in London and RNAS Mullion in Cornwall.

Whilst stationed at Mullion, as a Private, he was absorbed into the newly formed Royal Air Force on April 1st 1918. His enlistment record reveals many details about his physical appearance at the time  - he was 5 ft 6 inches tall, had brown eyes and grey hair, and his complexion was described as ‘fresh’. Tom’s chest measurement was 39 inches and he had a birthmark on his left shoulder.

The record also shows that Tom was engaged in hostilities on five occasions between 1917 and 1918, three times aboard HMS President II and twice aboard HMS Daedalus. Tom’s younger brother Samuel also served aboard these vessels at the same time. In Burton Latimer’s electoral rolls of 1918 Tom’s home address is listed as Roseberry Street and he is recorded as an ‘absent voter’.

After the war Tom returned to his wife and family in Burton Latimer, and they continued to live on Roseberry Street until at least 1934. During this time Tom worked as a newsagent at 58 High Street in Burton Latimer.

By 1935 Tom and Fanny had bought 52/54 High Street - Burton Fish & Chip Shop - which they ran until 1940 when ownership of the chip shop was passed down to their youngest child, also called Tom. After leaving the chip shop the couple moved to 41 Queensway in Burton Latimer where they saw out their days. Whilst at this address the couple are known to have had a red setter called Jess, it is also known that Tom liked to smoke a pipe.

In later life Tom became known as Old Tom, partly to avoid confusion with his son who was also called Tom (James Thomas Miller). Old Tom died in Kettering on October 6th 1960, he was 83 years old. Fanny died nearly three years later in Wellingborough, together they had seven children:

From Kettering to Ypres: The Courageous Tale of Horace Towell

Horace Towell was a brave soldier who served in the Great War. It is a tale of courage and sacrifice, of a man who gave his all for his country.

Horace was living in the town of Kettering when war broke out, with his beloved wife Margaret and their two daughters, Doris and Mabel. But duty called, and in June 1915, he enlisted to fight with the 4th Sussex Regiment.

He served with distinction, but on July 31st, 1917, Horace was badly wounded in the infamous Battle of Ypres. The fighting was fierce, and sadly, Horace lost his arm in the conflict and was sent back home to recover.

Despite his injury, Horace showed remarkable resilience and went on to live a long life, reaching the grand old age of 95. His niece, Marie Turner, who is now 89 years old, remembers him fondly. "He was my favourite," she says, "a lovely man with beautiful blue eyes. When he looked at you, his eyes would sparkle and make you feel all warm inside."

But Horace was one of the fortunate ones. Many of his generation never returned from the war. Among those was Arthur Horsley, the brother-in-law of Horace's sister Letty Horsley (nee Towell), my great, great aunt. Arthur was just 21 when he was killed in action at Flanders in October 1918. Tragically, his elder brother Reuben was also killed there just two weeks earlier. The third image shows their names on the War Memorial in Desborough.

Lest we forget the sacrifices made by so many in the Great War, and the bravery of men like Horace Towell, who risked everything for their country.

The Descendants of Joseph Miller

Summary

As we delve into the life of Joseph Miller, a resident of Burton Latimer in the late 18th century, the details surrounding his birth and parentage remain elusive. However, what we do know for certain is that he wed Elizabeth Torton (or Turton) at Burton Parish Church in 1784, and together, they had five children. Sadly, their third-born son, William, passed away before his third birthday, while their youngest child, also named William, was born five years later. In 1801, Elizabeth died, and Joseph went on to marry twice more, but the details of the first of these marriages remain uncertain.

Each of Joseph's children were baptized at the Old Meeting Hall in Wollaston between 1807 and 1813. The reason for this choice of location is unclear, but it may have been due to Joseph's non-conformist religious beliefs or the popularity of the church's pastor, the Rev. David Hennell. The marriage of Joseph and Mary ended sometime between 1813 and 1823, most likely due to Mary's passing. Joseph would later marry again to a woman named Elizabeth, who became a stepmother to his children. Joseph worked as a shoemaker, and the 1824 Burton Latimer Baptist register recorded the birth of his daughter Martha Yeomans Miller.

Joseph's son George Yeomans Miller, born in 1809, lived in Nichols Yard, 4 High Street, Burton Latimer, and like his father, worked as a shoemaker. He married Elizabeth Aldwinkle in 1835, and the couple had twelve children. Their second-born son, Edward Yeomans Miller, was widely known as "Teddy the Potato King." At age eight, Edward worked as a farm boy, and by the time he was 18, he had become a pig dealer. In the 1851 census, Edward was a resident of the Horse and Groom public house with his aunt Sarah Miller. Edward's life was marred by a crime he was suspected of committing - stealing someone's cape on the grounds of the Horse & Groom. However, the charges were eventually dropped.

Tragically, Elizabeth and two of her sons, Thomas and James, lost their lives in the great typhoid outbreak of 1872. George passed away in 1881, and his gravestone is located in St. Mary's graveyard in Burton Latimer, where it can still be viewed today.

Edward 'Teddy' Miller with his daughters Fanny (Rachel Anne) and Topsy (Charlotte) pictured horse-hoeing in Teddy's potato plot on Finedon Road. Photograph taken c.1900. Photo credit: www.burtonlatimer.info/

Detail

Joseph Miller was born in Burton Latimer in either 1767 or 1768. It's unclear who his parents were; the two most likely candidates are William and Martha Miller, who baptised their son Joseph on September 9th 1776, and David and Dorothy Miller, who baptised their son Joseph on August 31st 1778.

Whilst Joseph's exact date of birth and parentage remains uncertain, there is concrete evidence that he married Elizabeth Torton (Turton?) at Burton Parish Church on February 1st 1784. Together they had five children John, Sarah (b. April 9th 1787), William (b. August 8th 1790 - d. February 8th 1793), Joseph (b. October 4th 1793) & William (b. February 25th 1798).

Joseph & Elizabeth's children:

John Miller (b.18 Dec 1784)

Sarah Miller

William Miller

Joseph Miller

William Miller

Unfortunately, their third eldest child, William, died before his third birthday, and their fifth-born child, born some five years after his death - was also called William. Then, in 1801, just three years after the birth of the 'second' William, Elizabeth died.

Joseph went on to marry again, it's unconfirmed exactly who this Mary was, but the two most likely candidates are - Mary Glover and Mary Robinson. In either event, the marriage occurred in 1804 at Toller United Reformed Church, and the couple had eight children. The eldest two children, John (b. September 8th 1802) and Francis (b. December 20th 1803), may have been born out of wedlock.

Joseph & Mary's Children:

John Miller

Francis Miller

Eliza Miller

Benjamin Miller

*George Miller (25 Jun 1809 - 1891)

Samuel Miller

Edy Miller

Each of Joseph and Mary's children were baptised at the Old Meeting Hall in Wollaston between 1807 and 1813. This venue was much further to travel than the Great Meeting Hall in Kettering. Joseph may have opted for this due to his religious observances (non-conformist) or the popularity of Wollaston's pastor at the time, the Rev. David Hennell.

At some point between 1813 and 1823, the marriage of Joseph and Mary ended, most likely due to the death of Mary. However, Joseph married again, and just like his first wife, her name was Elizabeth.

Burton Latimer Baptist register records the birth of Martha Yeomans Miller on October 12th 1824. Several of Joseph's other children adopted the forename Miller which suggests that Elizabeth Yeomans was stepmother to all of the children from around 1824 onwards. The same register records Joseph's occupation in 1824 to be that of a shoemaker. In total, Joseph Miller produced 13 descendants from three different women.

George Yeomans Miller

George Yeomans Miller (Joseph's tenth-born child and sixth-born son) was born in 1809 and lived in Nichols Yard, 4 High Street, Burton Latimer. Like his father, he worked as a shoemaker and was a member of Burton Latimer's Baptist congregation. George married Elizabeth Aldwinkle (1815-1872) at St. Mary's Parish Church in 1835. Elizabeth was the daughter of John and Elizabeth Aldwinkle of Drayton, Leicestershire. Together George and Elizabeth had twelve children.

George and Elizabeth's children

Mary Ann Miller (May 7th 1835 - November 26th 1911) died aged 76

Charlotte Miller (b. 7 Feb 1837)

Thomas Miller (1839 - October 16th 1872) died of typhoid aged 33

Edward Yeomans Miller (1843 - 1912) died aged 69, nicknamed 'Teddy the Potato King.'

Samuel Yeomans Miller (c. 1844 - 1919)

Elizabeth Miller (c. 1847)

George James Yeomans Miller (c. 1849)

Charles Miller (b. 20 Feb 1851)

James Yeomans Miller (1853 - September 2nd 1872) died of typhoid aged 19.

Ellen Miller (c. 1854)

John Walter Yeomans Miller (c. 1856) was the father of Elizabeth Anne Miller, who married William Toseland on October 18th 1906, aged 25.

Henry Miller (c.1858)

http://boards.ancestry.se/surnames.toseland/6/mb.ashx

Unfortunately, Elizabeth died in the great typhoid outbreak of 1872, aged 57, along with their sons Thomas and James; George lived on until 1881. His gravestone is shared with his eldest daughter Mary Ann and can still be seen today in St. Mary's graveyard.

Edward Miller - The Potato King

George and Elizabeth's second-born son, Edward, was well known in the county and went by the nickname 'Teddy The Potato King'. Historical records reveal some interesting details about Edward's life.

In the Burton Latimer census of 1851, Edward was just eight years old and employed as a 'farm boy'. By the census of 1861, he had become a pig dealer and lived with his aunt, Sarah Miller, at the Horse and Groom public house. A crime was said to have occurred on the grounds of the Horse & Groom. Edward had been suspected of stealing someone's cape. But after questioning, all charges were dropped against Edward. However, he was accused of stealing someone's cape.

Edward then worked as a shoemaker in Leeds (1871 census) and Irthlingborough (1881 census) before returning to Burton, where he worked as a 'dealer' in the censuses of 1891, 1901 and 1911. He dealt in retail, wholesale, furniture and potatoes, for which he would gain local fame. Edward's stock was stored in a large barn on Duke Street, which was later demolished to make way for Burton Latimer Fire Station.

George married Mary Ann Daft in 1861 at Leicester and they had ten children together. But unfortunately, only eight children made it to adulthood. George and his family lived in a thatched house on the corner of High Street and Piggotts Lane. He also owned a plot of land on Finedon Road, where he grew his potatoes, ably assisted by two daughters, Fanny (Rachel Anne) and Topsy (Charlotte).

Charles Miller

The fifth son of George and Elizabeth and the younger brother to Edward was Charles. Charles worked as an engine driver and ironstone worker and left Burton Latimer c.1869 to live with his future wife (Susan Brains 1853-1932) in Grafton Underwood. George and Susan were married in 1871 at the Parish Church and had their first child, Fred (b.1871), soon after. 

In about 1872, Charles and his family moved to Warrenby in Yorkshire due to the demand for ironstone workers, and it is here where their following three children were born - Thomas James (b. 1873), Louisa (b. 1875) and James Thomas [Tom] (b. 1876). By the time their fifth child had arrived in 1879 (another James somewhat confusingly), they had returned to Burton Latimer, where they would have five more children. They lived at Nicols Yard, 4 High Street, until at least 1918. Susan died in 1932, and by 1934, Charles had moved to 87 High Street, where he is believed to have lived until his death.

John Walter Yeomans Miller

John Walter Yeomans Miller (c. 1856) was father to several daughters, one of whom - Elizabeth Anne Miller - married William Toseland on October 18th 1906, aged 25. Mr Toseland had been a lodger in the family home on Alexandra Street from at least 1901 onwards. John's elder brother, George (Elizabeth's uncle), was one of the marriage witnesses. The marriage records show that John was a shoe manufacturer, Elizabeth was a machinist, and William was a shoehand. Following their marriage, Elizabeth and William moved into a house on Newman Street.

Charles and Susan's children

Fred [Fred] Miller b. June 2nd, 1871

Thomas James Miller b. November 20th, 1873

Louisa Miller b. March 20th, 1875

[James] Thomas Miller b. October 30th, 1876

James Miller b. May 14th, 1879

Ada Miller b. October 30th, 1881

Charles Miller b. September 24th, 1883

Florence Miller b. May 20th, 1885

Samuel Miller b. December 13th, 1886 (7?)

Rhoda Miller b.  20 August, 1889

Edward Archable [Archibald] Miller b. July 27th, 1892